bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stigma by association among alcohol and other drug and harm reduction workers: Implications for workplace outcomes
Authors: Brener Loren , Caruana Theresa , Cama Elena , Gilford Candice , Crawford Sione , Capell‐Hattam Thomas , von Hippel Courtney
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The negative attitudes people hold towards those who use alcohol or other drugs (AOD) can also affect the people who work with this community, leading to lowered productivity and wellbeing. The impact of this stigma by association in the AOD and harm reduction sector is particularly significant because workers may have lived experience of AOD use and identify strongly with their client group. This study aimed to examine how stigma by association among health workers in the AOD/harm reduction sector relates to workplace outcomes. A secondary aim was to explore how lived experience influences experiences of stigma by association.

Methods

The research used a cross‐sectional survey design and data collection occurred in 2023. Australian AOD/harm reduction workers (n = 228) completed an online survey assessing stigma by association as well as various workplace outcomes measures.

Results

Participants who reported experiencing more stigma by association experienced poorer workplace wellbeing, higher burnout and greater intentions to leave the AOD/harm reduction field. Experiences of stigma by association were unrelated to job satisfaction. Additional analyses revealed that participants with lived experience reported higher levels of job satisfaction and lowered intentions to leave the sector, but findings of stigma by association and its impacts on workplace outcomes did not differ from those without lived experience.

Discussion and Conclusions

Identifying staff experiences of stigma by association and developing support and advocacy mechanisms to address this is likely to be key to reducing these experiences and ultimately to increasing positive workplace outcomes for AOD and harm reduction staff.
Early detection of cerebral palsy with the Standardized Infant NeuroDevelopmental Assessment versus the General Movements Assessment: Is another assessment the way forward?
Authors: Neel Mary Lauren
Published: May 2024

This commentary is on the original article by Hadders‐Algra et al. on pages 1361–1368 of this issue.
Ethical issues in dental education—A cross‐sectional study with pre‐clinical and clinical dental students
Authors: Goetz Katja , Gutermuth Ann‐Christine , Wenz Hans‐Jürgen , Groß Dominik , Hertrampf Katrin
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Although ethics is an indispensable part of dental education, it has not yet played a relevant role in the dental curriculum in Germany. The study aimed at assessing their prior knowledge of ethical aspects, and their expectations of and wishes for ethics course of dental students, preclinical vs. clinical, at the dental school Kiel, Germany by means of a validated questionnaire.

Methods

A descriptive cross‐sectional study design was used. The study population consisted of dental students, from pre‐clinical (n = 105) and clinical semesters (n = 110). In January 2019, each student completed a validated questionnaire to identify semester‐specific ethical teaching content. Besides descriptive analyses, Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare pre‐clinical and clinical students.

Results

A total of 215 dental students, with a mean age of 25.3 (SD 4.1), participated in the study, of which 150 were female (69.8%) and 65 were male students (30.2%). The results in the areas of ‘previous knowledge of ethical issues’ and ‘expectations and desires in terms of teaching medical ethics’ showed similarities and differences between pre‐clinical and clinical students. Both groups stated that they need training in ethics. Moreover, especially clinical students recognize that more ethical competence is needed if the first patient contact will start.

Conclusion

The study indicates that there is a clear need for ethics education. Student awareness of the relevance of ethical competences and the perception of ethical problems increased progressively during the course of their studies. Overall, the study provides good support for the development of specific ethics courses.
A simple PCR‐based method for detecting Anagyrus lopezi (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) and Prochiloneurus pulchellus (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), primary and hyper parasitoids of the cassava mealybug Phenacoccus manihoti (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae)
Authors: Takano Shun‐ichiro , Nguyen Ngoc Hung , Le Thi Xuyen , Htwe Ah Nge , Takasu Keiji
Published: May 2024

Estimating parasitism rates in the field is essential for developing and evaluating biocontrol strategies using parasitoids. In this study, we developed a simple polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based method for detecting parasitism of the cassava mealybug Phenacoccus manihoti Matile‐Ferrero (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) by the primary parasitoid Anagyrus lopezi De Santis (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) and its hyperparasitoid Prochiloneurus pulchellus Silvestri (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae). Primers were designed to amplify partial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I genes of each species, and their sensitivity was evaluated with mealybugs that had been parasitized by A. lopezi 0, 3, and 6 days earlier, and mummified mealybugs containing A. lopezi pupae that had been parasitized by P. pulchellus 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 days earlier. The detection rate of parasitism by A. lopezi was 100% for all ages of A. lopezi. The detection rate of parasitism by P. pulchellus ranged from 94.1% to 100%, depending on its developmental stage. For P. pulchellus, template DNA was diluted 10 times before PCR because PCR with the original concentration showed low detection rates, presumably due to the presence of PCR inhibitors. Overall, our primers can be considered sufficiently sensitive to be used for detecting each species.
Spatial variation in spring arrival patterns of Afro‐Palaearctic bird migration across Europe
Authors: Border Jennifer A. , Boersch‐Supan Philipp H. , Pearce‐Higgins James W. , Hewson Chris M. , Howard Christine , Stephens Philip A. , Willis Stephen G. , Houston Alasdair I. , Gargallo Gabriel , Baillie Stephen R.
Published: May 2024

Aim

Geographical patterns of migrant species arrival have been little studied, despite their relevance to global change responses. Here, we quantify continent‐wide interspecific variation in spatiotemporal patterns of spring arrival of 30 common migrant bird species and relate these to species characteristics and environmental conditions.

Location

Europe.

Time Period

2010–2019.

Major Taxa Studied

Birds, 30 species.

Methods

Using citizen science data from EuroBirdPortal, we modelled arrival phenology for 30 Afro‐Palaearctic migrant species across Europe to extract start and duration of species arrival at a 400 km square resolution. We related inter and intraspecific variation in arrival and duration to species characteristics and temperature at the start of the growing season (green‐up).

Results

Spatial variation in start of arrival times indicates that it took, on average, 1.6 days for the leading migratory front to move northwards by 100 km (range: 0.6–2.5 days). There was a major gradient in arrival phenology, from species which arrived earlier, least synchronously, in colder temperatures and progressed slowly northwards to species which arrived later, most synchronously and in warmer temperatures and advanced quickly through Europe. The slow progress of early arrivers suggests that temperature limits their northward advance; this group included Aerial Insectivores and species wintering north of the Sahel. For the late arrivers, which included species wintering further south, seasonal resource availability in Africa may delay their arrival into Europe.

Main Conclusions

We found support for the green‐wave hypothesis applying widely to migratory landbirds. Species arrival phenologies are linked to ecological differences between taxa, such as diet, and wintering location. Understanding these differences informs predictions of species' sensitivity to global change. Publishing these arrival phenologies will facilitate further research and have additional conservation benefits such as informing designation of hunting seasons. Our methods are applicable to any taxa with repeated occurrence data across large scales.
Erythrocytosis: Diagnosis and investigation
Authors: Noumani Iman , Harrison Claire N. , McMullin Mary Frances
Published: May 2024

An absolute erythrocytosis is present when the red cell mass is greater than 125% of the predicted. This is suspected when the hemoglobin or hematocrit is above the normal range. An erythrocytosis can be classified as primary or secondary and congenital or acquired. The commonest primary acquired disorder is polycythemia vera. The diagnostic criteria for PV have evolved over time and this is the main diagnosis managed in hematology clinics. There are a variety of rare congenital causes both primary and secondary. In particular in young patients and/or those with a family history a congenital cause is suspected. There remains a larger cohort with acquired erythrocytosis mainly with non‐hematological pathology. In order to explore for a cause of erythrocytosis, measurement of the erythropoietin level is a first step. A low erythropoietin level indicates a primary cause and a normal or elevated level indicates a secondary etiology. Further investigation is then dictated by initial findings and includes mutational testing with PCR and NGS for those in whom a congenital cause is suspected. Following this possibly bone marrow biopsy, scans, and further investigation as indicated by history and initial findings. Investigation is directed toward the identification of those with a hematological disorder which would be best managed following guidelines in hematology clinics and referral elsewhere in those for whom there are non‐hematological reasons for the elevated hemoglobin.
Photodynamic diagnosis‐assisted transurethral resection of bladder tumor for high‐risk non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer improves intravesical recurrence‐free survival (BRIGHT study)
Authors: Kawai Taketo , Matsuyama Hideyasu , Kobayashi Keita , Ikeda Atsushi , Miyake Makito , Nishimoto Koshiro , Matsushita Yuto , Nishiyama Hiroyuki , Fujimoto Kiyohide , Oyama Masafumi , Miyake Hideaki , Azuma Haruhito , Inoue Keiji , Mitsui Takahiko , Kawakita Mutsushi , Oyama Chikara , Mizokami Atsushi , Abe Takashige , Kuroiwa Hajime , Kume Haruki
Published: May 2024

Objectives

In a primary analysis of data from the BRIGHT study (UMIN000035712), photodynamic diagnosis‐assisted transurethral resection of bladder tumor (PDD‐TURBT) using oral 5‐aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride reduced residual tumors in high‐risk non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PDD‐TURBT for intravesical recurrence after a second transurethral resection for high‐risk NMIBC.

Methods

High‐risk NMIBC patients initially treated with PDD‐TURBT (PDD group) were prospectively registered between 2018 and 2020. High‐risk patients with NMIBC who were initially treated with white‐light TURBT (WL group) were retrospectively registered. Intravesical recurrence‐free survival after the second transurethral resection was compared between the PDD and WL groups using propensity score matching analysis.

Results

In total, 177 patients were enrolled in the PDD group, and 306 patients were registered in the WL group. After propensity score matching (146 cases in each group), intravesical recurrence within 1 year was significantly less frequent in the PDD group than in the WL group (p = 0.004; hazard ratio [HR] 0.44, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.25–0.77). In subgroup analysis, PDD‐TURBT showed a particularly high efficacy in reducing intravesical recurrence within 1 year, especially in cases of tumors measuring less than 3 cm (p = 0.003; HR 0.31, 95% CI: 0.14–0.67), absence of residual tumor at second transurethral resection (p = 0.020; HR 0.37, 95% CI: 0.16–0.86), and no postoperative intravesical Bacillus Calmette‐Guérin therapy (p < 0.001; HR 0.27, 95% CI: 0.13–0.58).

Conclusions

PDD‐TURBT may reduce short‐term intravesical recurrence in patients with high‐risk NMIBC.
Constitutive Flt3 signaling impacts conventional dendritic cell function
Authors: Wilson Kayla R , Macri Christophe , Villadangos Jose A , Mintern Justine D
Published: May 2024

The development of dendritic cells (DCs) depends on signaling via the FMS‐like tyrosine kinase 3 (Flt3) receptor. How Flt3 signaling impacts terminally differentiated DC function is unknown. This is important given the increasing interest in exploiting Flt3 for vaccination and tumor immunotherapy. Here, we examined DCs in mice harboring constitutively activated Flt3 (Flt3‐ITD). Flt3ITD/ITD mice possessed expanded splenic DC subsets including plasmacytoid DC, conventional DC (cDC)1, cDC2, double positive (DP) cDC1 (CD11c+ CD8+ CD11b− CD103+ CD86+), noncanonical (NC) cDC1 (CD11c+ CD8+ CD11b− CD103− CD86−) and single positive (SP) cDC1 (CD11c+ CD8+ CD11b− CD103− CD86+). Outcomes of constitutive Flt3 signaling differed depending on the cDC subset examined. In comparison with wild type (WT) DCs, all Flt3ITD/ITD cDCs displayed an altered surface phenotype with changes in costimulatory molecules, major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC I) and II (MHC II). Cytokine secretion patterns, antigen uptake, antigen proteolysis and antigen presenting function differed between WT and Flt3ITD/ITD subsets, particularly cDC2. In summary, Flt3 signaling impacts the function of terminally differentiated cDCs with important consequences for antigen presentation.
Linking information technology use with corporate entrepreneurship: The mediation role of openness to external knowledge
Authors: Cao Chuhan , Chen Meng , Tang Xinlin , Liu Hefu
Published: May 2024

Firms are increasingly applying multiple information technologies (ITs) to pursue corporate entrepreneurship. However, how different ITs can be leveraged collectively to achieve corporate entrepreneurship remains largely underexplored. Drawing upon the knowledge‐based view, we develop an integrative theoretical model to delineate how three types of commonly deployed IT (i.e. organisational enterprise systems use, organisational social media use and top management team social media use) can be used collectively in the knowledge acquisition and utilisation processes to achieve corporate entrepreneurship. Specifically, we posit that organisational IT uses (i.e. organisational enterprise systems use and organisational social media use) enhance openness to external knowledge in the knowledge acquisition process, which in turn serves as the mediation mechanism to channel organisational IT uses into corporate entrepreneurship. Moreover, top management team IT use (i.e. top management team social media use) shapes the effect of openness to external knowledge on corporate entrepreneurship in the knowledge utilisation process. The empirical analysis using multi‐respondent survey data from 1252 managers in 313 firms provides strong support for the proposed model. This study contributes to the information systems research on how IT influences corporate entrepreneurship by distinguishing the roles of organisational enterprise systems use, organisational social media use and top management team social media use in enhancing corporate entrepreneurship through firms' openness to external knowledge.
A protocol for a systematic review of social dimensions of resilience in older adults
Authors: Soares Mantere Eerik , Rostgaard Tine , Timonen Virpi , Perek‐Białas Jolanta
Published: May 2024

Background

Populations are ageing, making the quality of old age a crucial issue. Some adversity in old age, such as loss of loved one or loss of physical function, is often experienced, as is the need for recovery from such adversity. Resilience in later life has become an important topic and has accumulated much empirical research. However, the research has mainly centred on individual factors, such as personality, rather than social factors, such as family relationships or community engagement. There is no systematic review of the social dimensions of resilience in old age, a focus that should be especially important for policy and practice seeking to create supporting environments.

Methods

Our review comprises quantitative and qualitative empirical original English language studies, published 2013–2023, using predefined search phrases including ‘resilience’ and various terms for old age and social dimensions. Titles and abstracts are screened by the first two authors using registered exclusion criteria. Final inclusion, based on full‐text reading, is decided using registered inclusion criteria, and verified by co‐authors. Qualitative articles are read by authors specialized in qualitative research and quantitative articles by authors specialized in quantitative research. Due to large expected heterogeneity, meta‐analysis is not conducted, but weighted effect sizes or funnel plots may be prepared if parallel quantitative studies are encountered. Qualitative studies are synthesized using meta‐aggregation. The risk of bias is evaluated with applicable Joanna Briggs Institute checklists for each study design. A narrative synthesis brings together the qualitative and quantitative studies.

Conclusion

Methodological strengths and weaknesses of the included studies are reported to assess the quality of the research. Summary of the most significant social dimensions of resilience in old age is prepared, emphasizing interactions between contexts, stressors, mechanisms and outcomes; and research gaps are identified.

Systematic Review Registration

Protocol is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023412532).
Contemporary trends of leadless pacemaker implantation in the United States
Authors: Khan Muhammad Z. , Nassar Sameh , Nguyen Amanda , Khan Muhammad Usman , Sattar Yasar , Alruwaili Waleed , Gonuguntla Karthik , Mazek Haitham , Asad Zain Ul Abideen , Agarwal Siddharth , Raina Sameer , Balla Sudarshan , Nguyen Bao , Fan Dali , Darden Douglas , Munir Muhammad Bilal
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Leadless pacemakers (LPM) have established themselves as the important therapeutic modality in management of selected patients with symptomatic bradycardia. To determine real‐world utilization and in‐hospital outcomes of LPM implantation since its approval by the Food and Drug Administration in 2016.

Methods

For this retrospective cohort study, data were extracted from the National Inpatient Sample database from the years 2016−2020. The outcomes analyzed in our study included implantation trends of LPM over study years, mortality, major complications (defined as pericardial effusion requiring intervention, any vascular complication, or acute kidney injury), length of stay, and cost of hospitalization. Implantation trends of LPM were assessed using linear regression. Using years 2016−2017 as a reference, adjusted outcomes of mortality, major complications, prolonged length of stay (defined as >6 days), and increased hospitalization cost (defined as median cost >34 098$) were analyzed for subsequent years using a multivariable logistic regression model.

Results

There was a gradual increased trend of LPM implantation over our study years (3230 devices in years 2016−2017 to 11 815 devices in year 2020, p for trend <.01). The adjusted mortality improved significantly after LPM implantation in subsequent years compared to the reference years 2016−2017 (aOR for the year 2018: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.51−0.73; aOR for the year 2019: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.41−0.59; and aOR for the year 2020: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.44−0.62). No differences in adjusted rates of major complications were demonstrated over the subsequent years. The adjusted cost of hospitalization was higher for the years 2019 (aOR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.22−1.46) and 2020 (aOR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.55−1.84).

Conclusion

The contemporary US practice has shown significantly increased implantation rates of LPM since its approval with reduced rates of inpatient mortality.
Molecular and functional characterization of reversible‐sunitinib‐tolerance state in human renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Zaccagnino Angela , Vynnytska‐Myronovska Bozhena , Stöckle Michael , Junker Kerstin
Published: May 2024

Therapy failure with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) sunitinib remains a great challenge in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Growing evidence indicates that the tumour subpopulation can enter a transient, non‐mutagenic drug‐tolerant state to endure the treatment underlying the minimal residual disease and tumour relapse. Drug tolerance to sunitinib remains largely unexplored in RCC. Here, we show that sunitinib‐tolerant 786‐O/S and Caki‐2/S cells are induced by prolonged drug treatment showing reduced drug sensitivity, enhanced clonogenicity, and DNA synthesis. Sunitinib‐tolerance developed via dynamic processes, including (i) engagement of c‐MET and AXL pathways, (ii) alteration of stress‐induced p38 kinase and pro‐survival BCL‐2 signalling, (iii) extensive actin remodelling, which was correlated with activation of focal adhesion proteins. Remarkably, the acute drug response in both sensitive and sunitinib‐tolerant cell lines led to dramatic fine‐tuning of the actin‐cytoskeleton and boosted cellular migration and invasion, indicating that the drug‐response might depend on cell state transition rather than pre‐existing mutations. The drug‐tolerant state was transiently acquired, as the cells resumed initial drug sensitivity after >10 passages under drug withdrawal, reinforcing the concept of dynamic regulation and phenotypic heterogeneity. Our study described molecular events contributing to the reversible switch into sunitinib‐tolerance, providing possible novel therapeutic opportunities in RCC.
Prognostic and immunotherapeutic implications of bilirubin metabolism‐associated genes in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ren Kangqi , Ling Xiean , Chen Lin , Li Zeyao , Huang Tonghai
Published: May 2024

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a major subtype of non‐small‐cell lung cancer and accompanies high mortality rates. While the role of bilirubin metabolism in cancer is recognized, its specific impact on LUAD and patient response to immunotherapy needs to be elucidated. This study aimed to develop a prognostic signature of bilirubin metabolism‐associated genes (BMAGs) to predict outcomes and efficacy of immunotherapy in LUAD. We analysed gene expression data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to identify survival‐related BMAGs and construct a prognostic model in LUAD. The prognostic efficacy of our model was corroborated by employing TCGA‐LUAD and five Gene Expression Omnibus datasets, effectively stratifying patients into risk‐defined cohorts with marked disparities in survival. The BMAG signature was indeed an independent prognostic determinant, outperforming established clinical parameters. The low‐risk group exhibited a more favourable response to immunotherapy, highlighted by increased immune checkpoint expression and immune cell infiltration. Further, somatic mutation profiling differentiated the molecular landscapes of the risk categories. Our screening further identified potential drug candidates preferentially targeting the high‐risk group. Our analysis of critical BMAGs showed the tumour‐suppressive role of FBP1, highlighting its suppression in LUAD and its inhibitory effects on tumour proliferation, migration and invasion, in addition to its involvement in cell cycle and apoptosis regulation. These findings introduce a potent BMAG‐based prognostic indicator and offer valuable insights for prognostication and tailored immunotherapy in LUAD.
Improved therapeutic effects on vascular intimal hyperplasia by mesenchymal stem cells expressing MIR155HG that function as a ceRNA for microRNA‐205
Authors: Bai Xiao , Qi Zaiwen , Cai Chuanliang , Song Hao , Song Guangmin , Zhao Xin
Published: May 2024

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is an effective treatment for coronary heart disease, with vascular transplantation as the key procedure. Intimal hyperplasia (IH) gradually leads to vascular stenosis, seriously affecting the curative effect of CABG. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were used to alleviate IH, but the effect was not satisfactory. This work aimed to investigate whether lncRNA MIR155HG could improve the efficacy of MSCs in the treatment of IH and to elucidate the role of the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA). The effect of MIR155HG on MSCs function was investigated, while the proteins involved were assessed. IH was detected by HE and Van Gieson staining. miRNAs as the target of lncRNA were selected by bioinformatics analysis. qRT‐PCR and dual‐luciferase reporter assay were performed to verify the binding sites of lncRNA‐miRNA. The apoptosis, Elisa and tube formation assay revealed the effect of ceRNA on the endothelial protection of MIR155HG‐MSCs. We observed that MIR155HG improved the effect of MSCs on IH by promoting viability and migration. MIR155HG worked as a sponge for miR‐205. MIR155HG/miR‐205 significantly improved the function of MSCs, avoiding apoptosis and inducing angiogenesis. The improved therapeutic effects of MSCs on IH might be due to the ceRNA role of MIR155HG/miR‐205.
Validation of the pink esthetic score/white esthetic score at single tooth‐supported prostheses in the esthetic zone: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Dash Sreeprada , Srivastava Gunjan , Padhiary Subrat Kumar , Samal Monika , Çakmak Gülce , Roccuzzo Andrea , Molinero‐Mourelle Pedro
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To validate the reproducibility and inter/intra‐observer variability of the Pink Esthetic Score/White Esthetic Score (PES/WES) of single tooth‐supported prostheses in the maxillary esthetic zone (13–23).

Materials and Methods

Forty‐five patients were randomly assigned to one of the three treatment options (15 patients per group) receiving each one a different crown type: Porcelain fused to metal (PFM), monolithic zirconia, and lithium disilicate. Eight observers from each of four different specialties (Prosthodontists, Orthodontists, Periodontists, and Oral Surgeons) were recruited and assessed twice and four weeks apart (i.e., T1 and T2) 45 photographs of the single tooth‐supported prosthesis using PES/WES and compared them with contralateral teeth.

Results

According to the ANOVA and post hoc tests, the zirconia crown type obtained the highest mean score by all observers, with a mean value of 16.70 ± 2.94. The prosthodontists and oral surgeons assigned the lowest mean score to PFM crowns, 13.03 ± 3.47 and 13.80 ± 3.17, respectively. Notably, the prosthodontists awarded the highest scores, specifically 17.50 ± 2.81 for the zirconia crowns. Intraobserver agreement was calculated utilizing the paired t‐test. Pairwise comparisons between observers of different specialties revealed significant intraobserver agreement. Interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) scores were statistically significant among four specialties. No difference was detected concerning the interobserver agreement.

Conclusions

The PES/WES index remains consistent across various observers from different specializations, yielding uniform results in the overall esthetic evaluation. Consequently, in light of the presented preliminary positive results, its use might also be considered for the esthetic assessment of single‐tooth‐supported prostheses.

Clinical Significance

The PES/WES index may be employed clinically to evaluate single tooth‐supported prostheses as it emerged as a reproducible esthetic scoring system.
Development and evaluation of a modified most probable number (MPN) method for enumerating rifampicin‐resistant Escherichia coli in agricultural, food, and environmental samples
Authors: Gao Zhujun , Jha Aprajeeta , Hudson Claire L. , Hopper Adam L. , Micallef Shirley A. , Tikekar Rohan V.
Published: May 2024

Low level of rifampicin‐resistant E. coli is frequently used in food safety research as a model microorganism and is typically enumerated using traditional Most Probable Number (MPN) method. To simplify the process, we developed and validated a modified MPN method based on lactose peptone broth (LPB) containing rifampicin and bromocresol purple, the broth changes to a yellow color due to pH shifts induced by lactose fermentation from E. coli. E. coli TVS353 were prepared in following suspensions including healthy cells, injured cells, competitive bacteria with or without rifampicin resistance, and unknown natural microflora. E. coli TVS353 was quantified by traditional MPN method and our improved method. At a predicted level of 1 log CFU/mL, there was no significant difference in the MPN index of LPBR compared with TSB and TSBR in these suspensions (p > 0.05). Confirmation results generated from this new color change MPN method were analogous to traditional MPN methods.
Long chain unsaturated fatty acids alter growth and reduce biofilm formation of Cronobacter sakazakii
Authors: Phair Katie , Culliton David , Kealey Carmel , Brady Damien
Published: May 2024

Cronobacter sakazakii is a foodborne pathogen predominately transmitted through contaminated dried foods and affects populations including neonates, infants, and the elderly. Following several recent outbreaks, it is now a notifiable infection in those under 12 months of age. Current control methods include strict manufacturing guidelines, with monitoring of this genus a legal requirement in powdered infant formula production. Fatty acids have long been known as antimicrobials, with long‐chain fatty acids increasingly identified as agents that target virulence factors. This study gives insight into the changes promoted by three long‐chain unsaturated fatty acids (oleic, linoleic, and α‐linolenic) on C. sakazakii growth, morphology, and biofilm formation. Each fatty acid was individually introduced to C. sakazakii 29544 both as a sole carbon source and as an addition to complex media. Following comparison to the untreated control, bacterial cells treated with these fatty acids showed a significant and media‐dependent impact on growth and biofilm inhibition. With further characterization, long‐chain fatty acids, including α‐linolenic acid, could be utilized as a control method with minimal safety constraints regarding their use in the food production environment.
A vicinal oxygen chelate protein facilitates viral infection by triggering the unfolded protein response in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Guo Zhihong , Jiang Ning , Li Menglin , Guo Hongfang , Liu Qi , Qin Xinyu , Zhang Zongying , Han Chenggui , Wang Ying
Published: May 2024

Vicinal oxygen chelate (VOC) proteins are members of an enzyme superfamily with dioxygenase or non‐dioxygenase activities. However, the biological functions of VOC proteins in plants are poorly understood. Here, we show that a VOC in Nicotiana benthamiana (NbVOC1) facilitates viral infection. NbVOC1 was significantly induced by infection by beet necrotic yellow vein virus (BNYVV). Transient overexpression of NbVOC1 or its homolog from Beta vulgaris (BvVOC1) enhanced BNYVV infection in N. benthamiana, which required the nuclear localization of VOC1. Consistent with this result, overexpressing NbVOC1 facilitated BNYVV infection, whereas, knockdown and knockout of NbVOC1 inhibited BNYVV infection in transgenic N. benthamiana plants. NbVOC1 interacts with the basic leucine zipper transcription factors bZIP17/28, which enhances their self‐interaction and DNA binding to the promoters of unfolded protein response (UPR)‐related genes. We propose that bZIP17/28 directly binds to the NbVOC1 promoter and induces its transcription, forming a positive feedback loop to induce the UPR and facilitating BNYVV infection. Collectively, our results demonstrate that NbVOC1 positively regulates the UPR that enhances viral infection in plants.
Mortality in French people with polyhandicap/profound intellectual and multiple disabilities
Authors: Hamouda I. , Baumstarck K. , Aim M.‐A. , Beltran Anzola A. , Loundou A. , Billette de Villemeur T. , Boyer L. ,   the EVAL‐PLH group, Auquier P. , Rousseau M.‐C.
Published: May 2024

Background

In recent decades, progress has been made in the care of people with polyhandicap/profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD) through a better understanding of the pathophysiology and the development of new care management and rehabilitation strategies adapted to these extreme pathologies. Although there is a lack of knowledge about the health status and care management of the oldest people, a better understanding of the natural course of life of people with polyhandicap/PIMD would consequently allow the optimisation of preventive and curative care management strategies. Few robust data on mortality and life expectancy have been documented for this population in France. Our aims are to estimate the median survival time and assess the factors associated with mortality in people with polyhandicap/PIMD receiving care in France.

Methods

This study included people with polyhandicap/PIMD, followed by the French national cohort ‘Eval‐PLH’ since 2015. These individuals were included in specialised rehabilitation centres and residential institutions. The people included in the first wave of the cohort (2015–2016) were eligible for the present study. Vital status on 1 January 2022 (censoring date) was collected in two ways: (1) spontaneous reporting by the participating centre to the coordinating team and (2) systematic checking on the French national death platform. According to the vital status, survival was calculated in years from the date of birth to the date of death or from the date of birth to the censoring date. The factors associated with mortality were evaluated using the Cox proportional regression hazards model.

Results

Data from 780 individuals aged between 3 and 67 years were analysed. At the censoring date, 176 (22.6%) had died, and the mean survival was 52.8 years (95% confidence interval: 51.1–54.5). Mortality was significantly associated with a progressive aetiology, recurrent pulmonary infections, drug‐resistant epilepsy and a higher number of medical devices.

Conclusions

This study shows for the first time the survival and impact of factors associated with mortality in people with polyhandicap/PIMD in France.
Complications of collagen biostimulators in Brazil: Description of products, treatments, and evolution of 55 cases
Authors: Ianhez Mayra , de Goés e Silva Freire Giselle , Sigrist Rosa Maria Silveira , Colpas Paula Tavares , de Faria Isabella Alves , Parada Meire Odete Américo Brasil , Miot Hélio Amante
Published: May 2024

Background

Complications of temporary and permanent fillers have been extensively studied. However, there is a lack of comparative data regarding poly‐L‐lactic acid (PLLA), calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA), and polycaprolactone (PCL) known as collagen biostimulators.

Aims

This study addressed the complications of collagen biostimulators concerning their diagnosis, type of product, treatment, and monitoring.

Patients/Methods

An electronic questionnaire was sent to Brazilian dermatologic ultrasound experts to identify complications related to biostimulators. The type of biostimulator, location of application, number of vials injected, application plan, time between injection treatment and complication, injector profile, treatment, and prognosis were assessed.

Results

Fifty‐five cases were identified, of which 49.1% were caused by PLLA‐Elleva®, 23.6% by CaHA (alone or combined with hyaluronic acid), 20.0% by PLLA‐Sculptra®, and 7.3% by PCL. The most affected area was the face (72.7%), with nodules being the most common clinical form (89.1%), generally occurring late (60.0%) (>1 month). Only one case was injected at an incorrect depth (musculoaponeurotic system—SMAS). Despite several treatments, including saline (45.5%), hyaluronidase (25.5%), diluted corticosteroids (23.6%), and energy‐based devices (10.9%), only five cases showed complete resolution. Hyaluronidase was beneficial in complications related to fillers when there was an association of calcium hydroxyapatite with hyaluronic acid (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Complications from collagen biostimulators were more common on the face, typically manifesting about 1 month after treatment. These issues seemed to be related more to the properties of the products rather than inadequate technique. Furthermore, hyaluronidase demonstrated efficacy only in cases where there was an association with HA.
Epigenetic reprograming in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: A narrative of latent viruses
Authors: Apostolou Eirini , Rosén Anders
Published: May 2024

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a chronic disease presenting with severe fatigue, post‐exertional malaise, and cognitive disturbances—among a spectrum of symptoms—that collectively render the patient housebound or bedbound. Epigenetic studies in ME/CFS collectively confirm alterations and/or malfunctions in cellular and organismal physiology associated with immune responses, cellular metabolism, cell death and proliferation, and neuronal and endothelial cell function. The sudden onset of ME/CFS follows a major stress factor that, in approximately 70% of cases, involves viral infection, and ME/CFS symptoms overlap with those of long COVID. Viruses primarily linked to ME/CFS pathology are the symbiotic herpesviruses, which follow a bivalent latent–lytic lifecycle. The complex interaction between viruses and hosts involves strategies from both sides: immune evasion and persistence by the viruses, and immune activation and viral clearance by the host. This dynamic interaction is imperative for herpesviruses that facilitate their persistence through epigenetic regulation of their own and the host genome. In the current article, we provide an overview of the epigenetic signatures demonstrated in ME/CFS and focus on the potential strategies that latent viruses—particularly Epstein–Barr virus—may employ in long‐term epigenetic reprograming in ME/CFS. Epigenetic studies could aid in elucidating relevant biological pathways impacted in ME/CFS and reflect the physiological variations among the patients that stem from environmental triggers, including exogenous viruses and/or altered viral activity.
The effectiveness and impact of disinfection with chlorine on embryos and early hatchlings of two Western Pacific octopus species
Authors: Spreitzenbarth Stefan , Ureshino Yuto , Soma Misato , Shimba Ayako , Kamei Yoshinori , Dan Shigeki
Published: May 2024

Replicating maternal care and incubating octopus embryos artificially is advantageous to improve access to embryonic stages, split and share broods, and reduce the required space to culture large quantities of embryos. However, without female care and adequate rearing systems, the risk of bacterial and fungal infections can be high. This study evaluated the potential effects of low‐concentration sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) as a disinfectant on embryonic survival, hatchling survival, and growth. Embryos of a holobenthic octopus, Amphioctopus fangsiao, and of a merobenthic octopus, Octopus sinensis, were disinfected with 0.004% NaOCl for 3 min either once at the start (IB), at the start and halfway point (RB), and without disinfection (control). Survival of A. fangsiao embryos differed among treatments initially, but the final number of hatchings did not differ among treatments. No differences in the final survival for O. sinensis embryos were observed among the three treatments. Wet weight and growth for A. fangsiao juveniles did not differ among treatments at any point. In contrast, initial and final dry weight for O. sinensis paralarvae from the control treatment were heavier compared to the IB and RB treatments. These results suggest that NaOCl used as disinfectant has a species‐specific effect on early hatchlings depending on the octopus life history.
Soybean MKK2 establishes intricate signalling pathways to regulate soybean response to cyst nematode infection
Authors: Hawk Tracy E. , Piya Sarbottam , Sultana Mst Shamira , Zadegan Sobhan Bahrami , Shipp Sarah , Coffey Nicole , McBride Natalie B. , Rice John H. , Hewezi Tarek
Published: May 2024

Mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MPK) cascades play central signalling roles in plant immunity and stress response. The soybean orthologue of MPK kinase2 (GmMKK2) was recently identified as a potential signalling node whose expression is upregulated in the feeding site induced by soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines). To investigate the role of GmMKK2 in soybean–SCN interactions, we overexpressed a catabolically inactive variant referred to as kinase‐dead variant (KD‐GmMKK2) using transgenic hairy roots. KD‐GmMKK2 overexpression caused significant reduction in soybean susceptibility to SCN, while overexpression of the wild‐type variant (WT‐GmMKK2) exhibited no effect on susceptibility. Transcriptome analysis indicated that KD‐GmMKK2 overexpressing plants are primed for SCN resistance via constitutive activation of defence signalling, particularly those related to chitin, respiratory burst, hydrogen peroxide and salicylic acid. Phosphoproteomic profiling of the WT‐GmMKK2 and KD‐GmMKK2 root samples upon SCN infection resulted in the identification of 391 potential targets of GmMKK2. These targets are involved in a broad range of biological processes, including defence signalling, vesicle fusion, chromatin remodelling and nuclear organization among others. Furthermore, GmMKK2 mediates phosphorylation of numerous transcriptional and translational regulators, pointing to the presence of signalling shortcuts besides the canonical MAPK cascades to initiate downstream signalling that eventually regulates gene expression and translation initiation. Finally, the functional requirement of specific phosphorylation sites for soybean response to SCN infection was validated by overexpressing phospho‐mimic and phospho‐dead variants of two differentially phosphorylated proteins SUN1 and IDD4. Together, our analyses identify GmMKK2 impacts on signalling modules that regulate soybean response to SCN infection.
ZmmiR398b negatively regulates maize resistance to sugarcane mosaic virus infection by targeting ZmCSD2/4/9
Authors: Gao Xinran , Du Zhichao , Hao Kaiqiang , Zhang Sijia , Li Jian , Guo Jinxiu , Wang Zhiping , Zhao Shixue , Sang Lijun , An Mengnan , Xia Zihao , Wu Yuanhua
Published: May 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are widely involved in various biological processes of plants and contribute to plant resistance against various pathogens. In this study, upon sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV) infection, the accumulation of maize (Zea mays) miR398b (ZmmiR398b) was significantly reduced in resistant inbred line Chang7‐2, while it was increased in susceptible inbred line Mo17. Degradome sequencing analysis coupled with transient co‐expression assays revealed that ZmmiR398b can target Cu/Zn‐superoxidase dismutase2 (ZmCSD2), ZmCSD4, and ZmCSD9 in vivo, of which the expression levels were all upregulated by SCMV infection in Chang7‐2 and Mo17. Moreover, overexpressing ZmmiR398b (OE398b) exhibited increased susceptibility to SCMV infection, probably by increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, which were consistent with ZmCSD2/4/9‐silenced maize plants. By contrast, silencing ZmmiR398b (STTM398b) through short tandem target mimic (STTM) technology enhanced maize resistance to SCMV infection and decreased ROS levels. Interestingly, copper (Cu)‐gradient hydroponic experiments demonstrated that Cu deficiency promoted SCMV infection while Cu sufficiency inhibited SCMV infection by regulating accumulations of ZmmiR398b and ZmCSD2/4/9 in maize. These results revealed that manipulating the ZmmiR398b‐ZmCSD2/4/9‐ROS module provides a prospective strategy for developing SCMV‐tolerant maize varieties.
An effector SsCVNH promotes the virulence of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum through targeting class III peroxidase AtPRX71
Authors: Ma Ming , Tang Liguang , Sun Rui , Lyu Xueliang , Xie Jiatao , Fu Yanping , Li Bo , Chen Tao , Lin Yang , Yu Xiao , Chen Weidong , Jiang Daohong , Cheng Jiasen
Published: May 2024

Many plant pathogens secrete effector proteins into the host plant to suppress host immunity and facilitate pathogen colonization. The necrotrophic pathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum causes severe plant diseases and results in enormous economic losses, in which secreted proteins play a crucial role. SsCVNH was previously reported as a secreted protein, and its expression is significantly upregulated at 3 h after inoculation on the host plant. Here, we further demonstrated that deletion of SsCVNH leads to attenuated virulence. Heterologous expression of SsCVNH in Arabidopsis enhanced pathogen infection, inhibited the host PAMP‐triggered immunity (PTI) response and increased plant susceptibility to S. sclerotiorum. SsCVNH interacted with class III peroxidase AtPRX71, a positive regulator of innate immunity against plant pathogens. SsCVNH could also interact with other class III peroxidases, thus reducing peroxidase activity and suppressing plant immunity. Our results reveal a new infection strategy employed by S. sclerotiorum in which the fungus suppresses the function of class III peroxidases, the major component of PTI to promote its own infection.
Comparative clinicopathological study of the main anatomic locations of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Amezaga‐Fernandez Iñaut , Aguirre‐Urizar José Manuel , Suárez‐Peñaranda José Manuel , Chamorro‐Petronacci Cintia , Lafuente‐Ibáñez de Mendoza Irene , Marichalar‐Mendia Xabier , Somoza‐Martín José Manuel , Blanco‐Carrión Andrés , Antúnez‐López José , García‐García Abel
Published: May 2024

Objective

To analyze the clinicopathological and evolutionary profile of the main locations of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Materials and Methods

This is a retrospective study on 133 patients treated for OSCC. The group was composed of 48 women and 85 men, with a mean age 63.9 ± 12.73 years. Most cases involved the lingual border of tongue (63), followed by the gingiva (36) and the floor of mouth (34). A comparative analysis was performed using multinomial regression.

Results

There were significant differences regarding age, sex, tobacco and alcohol consumption, liver pathology, oral potentially malignant disorders, and bone and perineural invasion. In multivariate regression, tobacco consumption, and bone invasion remained significant. There were no significant differences in relation to prognosis.

Conclusion

The location of OSCC is an important factor in the clinicopathological assessment of this neoplasm. The main locations of OSCC show differential etiopathogenic and clinicopathological aspects. Tobacco consumption has a great relevance in the floor of mouth; nonetheless, it is less important in the tongue border and the gum, which suggests other pathogenic factors. It is necessary to consider the anatomical location of OSCC in preventive protocols, with the aim of reducing its high mortality.
“Partialist” and “universalist”: American exceptionalism in antebellum writing on national identity
Authors: Cananau Iulian
Published: May 2024

In this article, I analyze six well‐known antebellum essays on US national identity from the perspective of their engagement with the contemporary exceptionalist discourse. My focus is on their representations of the particular and the universal, whose paradoxical relationship lies at the core of all national exceptionalisms. I approach antebellum exceptionalism as part of the history in which the authors of these texts (Emerson, Fuller, Simms, Douglass, and Delany) lived their lives and to which they responded in different ways. The analysis shows how the universal–particular duality at the core of US exceptionalism is conceived and operates in these essays' discourses of American identity. A tentative conclusion is that whenever the universal dimension of American exceptionalism is enlarged or challenged by other universal criteria, the nationalist ideology loosens its grip; conversely, its presence is stronger when particularization occurs. Furthermore, the representations of the universal and the particular in these texts are discussed in relationship with certain aspects of US exceptionalism as a cultural phenomenon of antebellum history, namely, Manifest Destiny, cultural nationalism, the concept of civilization, and the growing tensions of slavery and racial discrimination in the free states.