bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of age on ablation outcomes in AF‐mediated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Segan Louise , Chieng David , Sugumar Hariharan , Voskoboinik Aleksandr , Ling Liang‐Han , Costello Ben , Azzopardi Sonia , Nderitu Ziporah , Parameswaran Ramanathan , Amerena John , McLellan Alex J. , Lee Geoffrey , Morton Joseph , Joseph Stephen , Wong Michael , Taylor Andrew , Kalman Jonathan M. , Kistler Peter M. , Prabhu Sandeep
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The absence of ventricular scar in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and systolic heart failure (HF) predicts left ventricular (LV) recovery following AF ablation. It is unknown whether age impacts the degree of LV recovery, reverse remodeling, or AF recurrence following catheter ablation (CA) among this population.

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of age on LV recovery and AF recurrence in a population with AF and systolic HF without fibrosis (termed AF‐mediated cardiomyopathy) following CA.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing CA between 2013 and 2021 with LV ejection fraction (LVEF) < 45% and absence of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) detected LV myocardial fibrosis were stratified by age (<65 vs. ≥65 years). Following CA, participants underwent remote rhythm monitoring for 12 months with repeat CMR for HF surveillance.

Results

The study population consisted of 70 patients (10% female, mean LVEF 33 ± 9%), stratified into younger (age < 65 years, 63%) and older (age ≥ 65 years, 37%) cohorts. Baseline comorbidities, LVEF (34 ± 9 vs. 33 ± 8 ≥65 years, p = .686), atrial and ventricular dimensions (left atrial volume index: 55 ± 21 vs. 56 ± 14 mL/m2 age ≥ 65, p = .834; indexed left ventricular end‐diastolic volume: 108 ± 40 vs. 104 ± 28 mL/m2 age ≥ 65, p = .681), pharmacotherapy and ablation strategy (pulmonary vein isolation in all; posterior wall isolation in 27% vs. 19% age ≥ 65, p = .448; cavotricuspid isthmus in 9% vs. 11.5% age ≥ 65) were comparable (all p > .05) albeit a higher CHADS2VASc score in the older cohort (2.7 ± 0.9 vs. 1.6 ± 0.6 age < 65, p < .001).   Freedom from AF was comparable (hazard ratio: 0.65, 95% confidence interval: 0.38–1.48, LogRank p = .283) as was AF burden [0% (interquartile range, IQR: 0.0–2.1) vs. age ≥ 65: [0% (IQR 0.0–1.7), p = .516], irrespective of age. There was a significant improvement in LV systolic function in both groups (ΔLVEF + 21 ± 14% vs. +21 ± 12% age ≥ 65, p = .913), with LV recovery in the vast majority (73% vs. 69%, respectively, p = .759) at 13 (IQR: 12–16) months. This was accompanied by comparable improvements in functional status (New York Heart Association class p = .851; 6‐min walk distance 50 ± 61 vs. 93 ± 134 m in age ≥ 65, p = .066), biomarkers (ΔN‐terminal‐pro brain natriuretic peptide −139 ± 246 vs. −168 ± 181 age ≥ 65,p = .629) and HF symptoms (Short Form‐36 survey Δphysical component summary p = .483/Δmental component summary, p = .841).

Conclusion

In patients undergoing CA for AF with systolic HF in the absence of ventricular scar, comparable improvements in ventricular function, symptoms, and freedom from AF are achieved irrespective of age.
Local low‐frequency vibration accelerates healing of full‐thickness wounds in a hyperglycemic rat model
Authors: Haba Daijiro , Qin Qi , Takizawa Chihiro , Tomida Sanai , Minematsu Takeo , Sanada Hiromi , Nakagami Gojiro
Published: September 2023

Aims/Introduction

Local low‐frequency vibration (LLFV) promotes vasodilation and blood flow, enhancing wound healing in diabetic foot ulcers with angiopathy. However, vibration‐induced vasodilation does not occur, owing to chronic hyperglycemia and inflammation. We hypothesized that LLFV improves glycometabolism and inflammation, leading to vasodilation and angiogenesis in diabetic wounds. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of LLFV on wound healing in hyperglycemic rats, primarily focusing on glycometabolism, inflammation, vasodilation, and angiogenesis.

Materials and Methods

Streptozotocin‐induced hyperglycemic Sprague–Dawley rats were used in this study. We applied LLFV to experimentally‐induced wounds at 50 Hz and 0, 600, 1,000 or 1,500 mVpp for 40 min/day from post‐wounding days (PWD) 1–14.

Results

The relative wound areas in the 600 and 1,000 mVpp groups on PWD 5–7 were significantly smaller than those at 0 mVpp. The expression of Glo‐1 (1,500 mVpp) and Slc2A4 (1,000 and 1,500 mVpp) was upregulated on PWD 4 and 14, respectively. However, there was no difference in methylglyoxal expression levels in any group until PWD 14. At 1,000 mVpp, the expression of Tnfa on PWD 4, and that of Ptx3 and Ccl2 on PWD 14 was downregulated. Furthermore, the M1/M2 macrophage ratio was considerably decreased on both days. The expression of Nos3, Vegfa and vascular endothelial growth factor A was upregulated on PWD 4. In addition, vasodilation and angiogenesis were more obvious on PWD 14 with 1,000 mVpp.

Conclusions

The results suggest that LLFV promotes wound healing, improves glycometabolism and inflammation, and enhances vasodilation and angiogenesis in hyperglycemic wounds.
Optimal treatments and outcome measures of palmoplantar pustulosis: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis‐based comparison of treatment efficacy
Authors: Fukasawa Takemichi , Yamashita Takashi , Enomoto Atsushi , Yoshizaki‐Ogawa Asako , Miyagawa Kiyoshi , Sato Shinichi , Yoshizaki Ayumi
Published: September 2023

Few studies have made direct comparisons between treatments for palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP); therefore, it is difficult to select the best treatment for each patient. To determine the best therapy and to compare reported measures of efficacy in clinical trials of systemic treatments for PPP in this systematic review and network meta‐analysis. Six databases were used to perform database search on 10 July 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified through a systematic literature search. The titles and abstracts of articles were initially screened for inclusion by two authors independently using our predetermined criteria. The full texts of selected articles were then independently assessed for inclusion in a blinded fashion. Disagreement between the authors was resolved by consensus. Data were abstracted in duplicate. Random‐effects model was accepted to perform network meta‐analysis. Assessed Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation certainty of evidence were performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. The analysis was completed in July 2022. The primary outcome was the change of PPP Area and Severity Index (PPPASI) from baseline and the secondary outcome was the achievement of PPPASI‐50 response. Seven RCTs with 567 patients were included. Guselkumab 100 mg was the one with the highest probability of reaching the proposed outcomes (mean difference [MD], −8.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.88–11.11), while the achievement of PPPASI‐50 response did not show a significant difference (odds ratio [OR], 3.79; 95% CI, 0.51–28.37). Guselkumab 200 mg was next to 100 mg of reaching the proposed outcomes (MD, −4.71; 95% CI, 2.12–7.30), while the achievement of PPPASI‐50 response did not show a significant difference (OR, 2.34; 95% CI, 0.48–11.43). Network meta‐analysis showed guselkumab 100 mg was the treatment with the highest probability of reaching both PPPASI and PPPASI‐50 outcomes. Absolute PPPASI may be more appropriate as an outcome than PPPASI‐50.
Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor protects neurons by stimulating mitochondrial function through protein kinase A
Authors: Swain Maryann , K. Soman Smijin , Tapia Kylea , Dagda Raul Y. , Dagda Ruben K.
Published: September 2023

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) stimulates dendrite outgrowth and synaptic plasticity by activating downstream protein kinase A (PKA) signaling. Recently, BDNF has been shown to modulate mitochondrial respiration in isolated brain mitochondria, suggesting that BDNF can modulate mitochondrial physiology. However, the molecular mechanisms by which BDNF stimulates mitochondrial function in neurons remain to be elucidated. In this study, we surmised that BDNF binds to the TrkB receptor and translocates to mitochondria to govern mitochondrial physiology in a PKA‐dependent manner. Confocal microscopy and biochemical subcellular fractionation assays confirm the localization of the TrkB receptor in mitochondria. The translocation of the TrkB receptor to mitochondria was significantly enhanced upon treating primary cortical neurons with exogenous BDNF, leading to rapid PKA activation. Showing a direct role of BDNF in regulating mitochondrial structure/function, time‐lapse confocal microscopy in primary cortical neurons showed that exogenous BDNF enhances mitochondrial fusion, anterograde mitochondrial trafficking, and mitochondrial content within dendrites, which led to increased basal and ATP‐linked mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis as assessed by an XF24e metabolic analyzer. BDNF‐mediated regulation of mitochondrial structure/function requires PKA activity as treating primary cortical neurons with a pharmacological inhibitor of PKA or transiently expressing constructs that target an inhibitor peptide of PKA (PKI) to the mitochondrion abrogated BDNF‐mediated mitochondrial fusion and trafficking. Mechanistically, western/Phos‐tag blots show that BDNF stimulates PKA‐mediated phosphorylation of Drp1 and Miro‐2 to promote mitochondrial fusion and elevate mitochondrial content in dendrites, respectively. Effects of BDNF on mitochondrial function were associated with increased resistance of neurons to oxidative stress and dendrite retraction induced by rotenone. Overall, this study revealed new mechanisms of BDNF‐mediated neuroprotection, which entails enhancing mitochondrial health and function of neurons.

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Quantitative anatomy of the large variant right hepatic vein: A systematic three‐dimensional analysis
Authors: Lin Jinyu , Tao Haisu , Wang Junfeng , Li Xinci , Wang Zhuangxiong , Fang Chihua , Yang Jian
Published: September 2023

Anatomical variations of the right hepatic vein, especially large variant right hepatic veins (≥5 mm), have important clinical implications in liver transplantation and resection. This study aimed to evaluate anatomical variations of the right hepatic vein using quantitative three‐dimensional visualization analysis. Computed tomography images of 650 patients were retrospectively analyzed, and three‐dimensional visualization was applied using the derived data to analyze large variant right hepatic veins. The proportion of the large variant right hepatic vein was 16.92% (110/650). According to the location and number of the variant right hepatic veins, the configuration of the right hepatic venous system was divided into seven subtypes. The length of the retrohepatic inferior vena cava had a positive correlation with the diameter of the right hepatic vein (rs = 0.266, p = 0.001) and the variant right hepatic veins (rs = 0.211, p = 0.027). The diameter of the right hepatic vein was positively correlated with that of the middle hepatic vein (rs = 0.361, p < 0.001), while it was inversely correlated with that of the variant right hepatic veins (rs = −0.267, p = 0.005). The right hepatic vein diameter was positively correlated with the drainage volume (rs = 0.489, p < 0.001), while the correlation with the variant right hepatic veins drainage volume was negative (rs = −0.460, p < 0.001). The number of the variant right hepatic veins and their relative diameters were positively correlated (p < 0.001). The volume and percentage of the drainage area of the right hepatic vein decreased significantly as the number of the variant right hepatic vein increased (p < 0.001). The findings of this study concerning the variations of the hepatic venous system may be useful for the surgical planning of liver resection or transplantation.
Productive and repressive power: The influence of gender norms on parents' decisions on children's consumption
Authors: Lopes Lealis Vaz Meleiro , Veloso Andres Rodriguez , Ferraz Sofia Batista
Published: September 2023

This study examines how parents exert productive and repressive power in influencing their children's gender socialization through consumption. We interviewed 20 parents responsible for educating 36 children to investigate their challenges when confronted with their children's consumption demands that deviate from gender‐appropriate norms. Under a queer feminist poststructuralist perspective, our results reveal the conflicts between parents and their children and between mothers and fathers when making consumption decisions that affect gender socialization. Our findings contribute to the consumer socialization literature by recognizing how gender norms influence parents' decisions about their children's consumption. We also shed light on the deployment of productive and repressive power tactics by parents in shaping their children's gender identity toward an “ideal” norm.
Daily strengths use and work performance: A self‐determination perspective
Authors: Moore Hannah L. , Bakker Arnold B. , van Mierlo Heleen , van Woerkom Marianne
Published: September 2023

Drawing on self‐determination theory, this study examines how using personal strengths at work in the morning is associated with different types of performance throughout the workday. Momentary satisfaction of the needs for autonomy, relatedness and competence are proposed as mechanisms that differentially link strengths use to four different performance outcomes: task accomplishment, goal attainment, organizational citizenship behaviour and counterproductive work behaviour. We collected data from 216 Dutch employees in a large variety of sectors twice a day for one workweek (N = 1470 observations) using a smartphone application. Results of multilevel structural equation modelling showed that momentary satisfaction of the needs for autonomy and competence at noon mediated the positive relationship between morning strengths use and afternoon task accomplishment and goal attainment. Furthermore, satisfaction of the need for relatedness mediated the positive relationship between morning strengths use and afternoon organizational citizenship behaviour, but not the negative relationship between morning strengths use and counterproductive work behaviour. These findings deepen our understanding of strengths use theory and uncover novel insight on the temporal aspects of strengths use within a working day.
Secondary bruxism: A valid diagnosis or just a coincidental finding of additional masticatory muscle activity? A narrative review of literature
Authors: Conti Paulo Cesar R. , Cunha Carolina Ortigosa , Conti Ana Cláudia de Castro F. , Bonjardim Leonardo R. , Barbosa Juliana Stuginski , Costa Yuri Martins
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Bruxism is defined as a repetitive masticatory muscle activity that can manifest it upon awakening (awake bruxism‐AB) or during sleep (sleep bruxism‐SB). Some forms of both, AB and SB can be associated to many other coexistent factors, considered of risk for the initiation and maintenance of the bruxism. Although controversial, the term ‘secondary bruxism’ has frequently been used to label these cases. The absence of an adequate definition of bruxism, the non‐distinction between the circadian manifestations and the report of many different measurement techniques, however, are important factors to be considered when judging the literature findings. The use (and abuse) of drugs, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and psychoactive substances, the presence of respiratory disorders during sleep, gastroesophageal reflux disorders and movement, neurological and psychiatric disorders are among these factors. The scarcity of controlled studies and the complexity and interactions among all aforementioned factors, unfortunately, does not allow to establish any causality or temporal association with SB and AB. The supposition that variables are related depends on different parameters, not clearly demonstrated in the available studies.

Objectives

This narrative review aims at providing oral health care professionals with an update on the co‐risk factors and disorders possibly associated with bruxism. In addition, the authors discuss the appropriateness of the term ‘secondary bruxism’ as a valid diagnostic category based on the available evidence.

Conclusion

The absence of an adequate definition of bruxism, the non‐distinction between the circadian manifestations and the report of many different measurement techniques found in many studies preclude any solid and convincing conclusion on the existence of the ‘secondary’ bruxism.
Effect of different digital technology on the adaptation and retention of Co‐Cr partial denture frameworks
Authors: Heiba Islam Mohamed , Mohamed Lotfy Shaimaa , Rizk Fardos Nabil , Sabet Marwa Ezzat
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the overall adaptation and retention of class I cobalt‐chromium (Co‐Cr) removable partial denture (RPD) frameworks using three different computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD‐CAM) technologies: Indirect wax milling with lost wax technique (LWT), direct milling, and selective laser melting (SLM) technique.

Materials and Methods

An educational maxillary stone model (Kennedy class I) was scanned after preparing rest seats to create a resin model. The resin model was scanned, and the RPD framework was digitally designed and saved as a standard tessellation language (STL) file. Twenty‐four Co‐Cr RPD frameworks were then constructed and divided into three groups (n = 8) based on fabrication technique: Group A (indirect wax milling with LWT), Group B (direct milling), and Group C (selective laser melting). In Group A, the STL file was used to mill the design from castable resin blanks which were then cast by the LWT. In Group B, the STL file was used to mill the design from the Co‐Cr blank directly. Finally in Group C, the STL file was used to print the design from Co‐Cr powder using SLM 3D printed technique. Geomagic Control X software was used to measure the overall adaptation of the fabricated RPD frameworks, Retention was also tested using a universal testing machine. One‐way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test was used to compare the three groups then the Tukey HSD post‐hoc test was used for pair‐wise comparisons. The significance level was set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results

Regarding the overall adaptation, Group B (0.71 ± 0.02 mm) showed significantly higher adaptation than Group A (0.96 ± 0.06 mm) and Group C (1.05 ± 0.16 mm). Regarding retention, Group B (2.03 ± 0.34 N) showed significantly higher retention than Group A (1.00 ± 0.13 N) and Group C (0.78 ±0.17 N).

Conclusion

Based on the findings of this in vitro study, Co‐Cr RPD frameworks fabricated by direct milling technique revealed the best adaptation and retention.
Cortical hyperarousal in individuals with frequent nightmares
Authors: Sayk Clara , Saftien Sophia , Koch Nicole , Ngo Hong‐Viet V. , Junghanns Klaus , Wilhelm Ines
Published: September 2023

Nightmares are common among the general population and psychiatric patients and have been associated with signs of nocturnal arousal such as increased heart rate or increased high‐frequency electroencephalographic (EEG) activity. However, it is still unclear, whether these characteristics are more of a trait occurring in people with frequent nightmares or rather indicators of the nightmare state. We compared participants with frequent nightmares (NM group; n = 30) and healthy controls (controls; n = 27) who spent 4 nights in the sleep laboratory over the course of 8 weeks. The NM group received six sessions of imagery rehearsal therapy (IRT), the ‘gold standard’ of cognitive‐behavioural therapy for nightmares, between the second and the third night. Sleep architecture and spectral power were compared between groups, and between nights of nightmare occurrence and nights without nightmare occurrence in the NM group. Additionally, changes before and after therapy were recorded. The NM group showed increased beta (16.25–31 Hz) and low gamma (31.25–35 Hz) power during the entire night compared to the controls, but not when comparing nights of nightmare occurrence to those without. Moreover, low gamma activity in rapid eye movement sleep was reduced after therapy in the NM group. Our findings indicate, cortical hyperarousal is more of a trait in people with frequent nightmares within a network of other symptoms, but also malleable by therapy. This is not only a new finding for IRT but could also lead to improved treatment options in the future that directly target high‐frequency EEG activity.
Bronchial collapse and bronchial stenting in 9 dogs
Authors: Kelly Darren , Juvet Florence , Lamb Valerie , Holdsworth Andrew
Published: September 2023

Background

Principal and lobar bronchial collapse is increasingly recognized as an isolated entity.

Objective

Retrospectively describe the procedure and outcomes of dogs undergoing bronchial stenting at a single referral hospital.

Animals

Nine client‐owned dogs with variable degrees of collapse of the left principal bronchus (LPB), lobar bronchus 1 (LB1), and lobar bronchus 2 (LB2), and with clinically relevant signs of respiratory dysfunction.

Methods

Data were collected from patient records. All dogs underwent stenting of the LPB and LB2. Anatomic and functional impairment grades were assigned to each case before and 4 weeks after stenting. Data regarding response to stenting and complications were evaluated.

Results

Bronchial stenting was considered successful in all cases, with all dogs experiencing improved quality of life (QOL), and decreased functional impairment grade at 4 weeks post‐stenting. Follow‐up of >6 months was available for 6 dogs and of these, 5 were alive at 12 months, 3 were alive at 18 months, and 1 was alive at 24 months. Stent‐related complications occurred in 4 dogs, and were resolvable in 3. Two dogs developed pneumothorax, 1 developed recurrent pneumonia, and 1 developed new‐onset coughing. All dogs had mild and manageable coughing post‐stenting.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Stenting of the LBP and LB2 might be an effective option for dogs with advanced collapse of these bronchi and associated signs. Although all included dogs had resolution or improvement of clinical signs considered life‐threatening or as affecting QOL, ongoing coughing is expected. Patient selection appears important with regard to achieving successful outcomes.
Evidence of introgression, ecological divergence and adaptation inAsteriassea stars
Authors: Giakoumis Melina , Pinilla‐Buitrago Gonzalo E. , Musher Lukas J. , Wares John P. , Baird Stuart J. E. , Hickerson Michael J.
Published: September 2023

Hybrid zones are important windows into the evolutionary dynamics of populations, revealing how processes like introgression and adaptation structure population genomic variation. Importantly, they are useful for understanding speciation and how species respond to their environments. Here, we investigate two closely related sea star species,Asterias rubensandA. forbesi, distributed along rocky European and North American coastlines of the North Atlantic, and use genome‐wide molecular markers to infer the distribution of genomic variation within and between species in this group. Using genomic data and environmental niche modelling, we document hybridization occurring between northern New England and the southern Canadian Maritimes. We investigate the factors that maintain this hybrid zone, as well as the environmental variables that putatively drive selection within and between species. We find that the two species differ in their environmental niche breadth;Asterias forbesidisplays a relatively narrow environmental niche while conversely,A. rubenshas a wider niche breadth. Species distribution models accurately predict hybrids to occur within environmental niche overlap, thereby suggesting environmental selection plays an important role in the maintenance of the hybrid zone. Our results imply that the distribution of genomic variation in North Atlantic sea stars is influenced by the environment, which will be crucial to consider as the climate changes.
Estimation of shear stress heterogeneity along capillary segments in angiogenic rat mesenteric microvascular networks
Authors: Hu Nien‐Wen , Lomel Banks M. , Rice Elijah W. , Hossain Mir Md Nasim , Sarntinoranont Malisa , Secomb Timothy W. , Murfee Walter L. , Balogh Peter
Published: September 2023

Objective

Fluid shear stress is thought to be a regulator of endothelial cell behavior during angiogenesis. The link, however, requires an understanding of stress values at the capillary level in angiogenic microvascular networks. Critical questions remain. What are the stresses? Do capillaries experience similar stress magnitudes? Can variations explain vessel‐specific behavior? The objective of this study was to estimate segment‐specific shear stresses in angiogenic networks.

Methods

Images of angiogenic networks characterized by increased vascular density were obtained from rat mesenteric tissues stimulated by compound 48/80‐induced mast cell degranulation. Vessels were identified by perfusion of a 40 kDa fixable dextran prior to harvesting and immunolabeling for PECAM. Using a network flow‐based segment model with physiologically relevant parameters, stresses were computed per vessel for regions across multiple networks.

Results

Stresses ranged from 0.003 to 2328.1 dyne/cm2 and varied dramatically at the capillary level. For all regions, the maximum segmental shear stresses were for capillary segments. Stresses along proximal capillaries branching from arteriole inlets were increased compared to stresses along capillaries in more distal regions.

Conclusions

The results highlight the variability of shear stresses along angiogenic capillaries and motivate new discussions on how endothelial cells may respond in vivo to segment‐specific microenvironment during angiogenesis.
The AP2/ERF transcription factor PtoERF15 confers drought tolerance via JA‐mediated signaling in Populus
Authors: Kong Lingfei , Song Qin , Wei Hongbin , Wang Yanhong , Lin Minghui , Sun Kuan , Zhang Yuqian , Yang Jiarui , Li Chaofeng , Luo Keming
Published: September 2023

Drought stress is one of the major limiting factors for the growth and development of perennial trees. Xylem vessels act as the center of water conduction in woody species, but the underlying mechanism of its development and morphogenesis under water‐deficient conditions remains elucidation.

Here, we identified and characterized an osmotic stress‐induced ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTOR 15 (PtoERF15) and its target, PtoMYC2b, which was involved in mediating vessel size, density, and cell wall thickness in response to drought in Populus tomentosa.

PtoERF15 is preferentially expressed in differentiating xylem of poplar stems. Overexpression of PtoERF15 contributed to stem water potential maintaining, thus promoting drought tolerance. RNA‐Seq and biochemical analysis further revealed that PtoERF15 directly regulated PtoMYC2b, encoding a switch of JA signaling pathway. Additionally, our findings verify that three sets of homologous genes from NAC (NAM, ATAF1/2, and CUC2) gene family: PtoSND1‐A1/A2, PtoVND7‐1/7‐2, and PtoNAC118/120, as the targets of PtoMYC2b, are involved in the regulation of vessel morphology in poplar.

Collectively, our study provides molecular evidence for the involvement of the PtoERF15‐PtoMYC2b transcription cascade in maintaining stem water potential through the regulation of xylem vessel development, ultimately improving drought tolerance in poplar.
Melatonin‐mediated CcARP1 alters F‐actin dynamics by phosphorylation of CcADF9 to balance root growth and salt tolerance in pigeon pea
Authors: Cao Hongyan , Yang Qing , Wang Tianyi , Du Tingting , Song Zhihua , Dong Biying , Chen Ting , Wei Yifan , Xue Jingyi , Meng Dong , Fu Yujie
Published: September 2023

As a multifunctional hormone‐like molecule, melatonin exhibits a pleiotropic role in plant salt stress tolerance. While actin cytoskeleton is essential to plant tolerance to salt stress, it is unclear if and how actin cytoskeleton participates in the melatonin‐mediated alleviation of plant salt stress. Here, we report that melatonin alleviates salt stress damage in pigeon pea by activating a kinase‐like protein, which interacts with an actin‐depolymerizing factor. Cajanus cajan Actin‐Depolymerizing Factor 9 (CcADF9) has the function of severing actin filaments and is highly expressed under salt stress. The CcADF9 overexpression lines (CcADF9‐OE) showed a reduction of transgenic root length and an increased sensitivity to salt stress. By using CcADF9 as a bait to screen an Y2H library, we identified actin depolymerizing factor‐related phosphokinase 1 (ARP1), a novel protein kinase that interacts with CcADF9. CcARP1, induced by melatonin, promotes salt resistance of pigeon pea through phosphorylating CcADF9, inhibiting its severing activity. The CcARP1 overexpression lines (CcARP1‐OE) displayed an increased transgenic root length and resistance to salt stress, whereas CcARP1 RNA interference lines (CcARP1‐RNAi) presented the opposite phenotype. Altogether, our findings reveal that melatonin‐induced CcARP1 maintains F‐actin dynamics balance by phosphorylating CcADF9, thereby promoting root growth and enhancing salt tolerance.
From Mushtra to Conscious Movement: Pyotr Lesgaft’s Science‐Based Physical Education for the Russian Cadet Corps
Authors: Alexandrova Marina
Published: September 2023

A charismatic pedagogue, anatomist, physician, and founder of Russia’s Free University, Pyotr Frantsevich Lesgaft (1837–1909) played a central role in the emergence of science‐based physical education in Russia between the 1870s and the 1900s. Using Lesgaft’s two‐volume Physical Education Guide for School Children (1888–1901) as a focal point, this article examines the debates surrounding military physical education in the context of pedagogical theories in late nineteenth‐century Europe and Russia, and demonstrates that Lesgaft’s liberal views on reforming physical education emerged from his unique expertise as a pedagogue, physician, and anatomist. Although Lesgaft formulated his pioneering system primarily during his employment with the Main Directorate of Military Educational Institutions (GUVUZ), his methods were often at odds with prevalent approaches to cadet training. Importantly, while Lesgaft’s approach was certainly innovative within Russia, it developed in conversation with three popular systems of physical education in nineteenth‐century Europe: Friedrich Jahn’s Turnen, Swedish gymnastics, and British sport.
Diagnostic value of high‐frequency ultrasound (HFUS) in evaluation of subcutaneous lesions
Authors: Miao Yao , Ren Wei‐Wei , Yang Fei‐Yue , Li Liang , Wu Ling , Dan Shan Dan‐ , Chen Zi‐Tong , Wang Li‐Fan , Wang Qiao , Guo Le‐Hang
Published: September 2023

Background

It is unknown whether high‐frequency ultrasound (HFUS) can evaluate invisible subcutaneous lesions. We aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of HFUS in invisible subcutaneous lesions.

Method

Patients with invisible subcutaneous lesions were prospectively recruited from two centres. Before undergoing biopsy or surgery, each lesion was independently evaluated by two clinicians. One provides a clinical diagnosis by only clinical examination and the other provides an integrated diagnosis by combining clinical examination and HFUS information. Diagnoses were classified as correct, wrong, and indeterminate. A total of 391 lesions from 355 patients were enrolled, including 225 epidermoid cysts, 77 lipomas, 25 pilomatrixomas, 21 haemangiomas, 19 dermatofibromas, 11 dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), 7 neurofibromas, and 6 leiomyomas. Using pathological results as the gold standard, diagnostic performance was compared.

Results

The number of correct diagnoses increased from 185 (47.3%) by clinical examination alone to 316 (80.8%) after the addition of HFUS (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the indeterminate diagnosis rate decreased from 143 (36.6%) to 10 (2.6%). Using HFUS, the accuracy improved significantly for epidermoid cysts (59.6% vs. 86.7%), lipomas (50.6% vs. 94.8%), pilomatrixomas (0% vs. 48.0%), haemangiomas (23.8% vs. 57.1%), and DFSPs (0% vs. 81.8%) (all p < 0.05). However, HFUS did not significantly improve the diagnostic accuracy of dermatofibromas (15.8% vs. 21.1%, p > 0.999), neurofibromas (42.9% vs. 71.4%, p = 0.625), or leiomyomas (16.7% vs. 100%, p = 0.063).

Conclusion

Combining HFUS and clinical examination can generally improve the diagnostic accuracy and decrease the indeterminacy of invisible subcutaneous lesions, especially epidermoid cysts, lipomas, pilomatrixomas, haemangiomas, and DFSPs. However, for some rare lesions, HFUS cannot provide useful information.
Integration of the immune memory into the pathogen‐driven MHC polymorphism hypothesis
Authors: Radwan Jacek , Kohi Chirine , Ejsmond Maciej , Paganini Julien , Pontarotti Pierre
Published: September 2023

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes (referred to as human leukocyte antigen or HLA in humans) are a key component of vertebrate immune systems, coding for proteins which present antigens to T‐cells. These genes are outstanding in their degree of polymorphism, with important consequences for human and animal health. The polymorphism is thought to arise from selection pressures imposed by pathogens on MHC allomorphs, which differ in their antigen‐binding capacity. However, the existing theory has not considered MHC selection in relation to the formation of immune memory. In this paper, we argue that this omission limits our understanding of the evolution of MHC polymorphism and its role in disease. We review recent evidence that has emerged from the massive research effort related to the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemics, and which provides new evidence for the role of MHC in shaping immune memory. We then discuss why the inclusion of immune memory within the existing theory may have non‐trivial consequence for our understanding of the evolution of MHC polymorphism. Finally, we will argue that neglecting immune memory hinders our interpretation of empirical findings, and postulate that future studies focusing on pathogen‐driven MHC selection would benefit from stratifying the available data according to the history of infection (and vaccination, if relevant).
Truncated glycosyltransferase coding regions in novelABOalleles give rise to weak A or B blood group expression and discrepant typing results
Authors: Ricci Hagman Jennifer , Hult Annika K. , Hellberg Åsa , Olsson Martin L.
Published: September 2023

Background

Correct ABO blood‐group matching between donor and patient is crucial for safe transfusions. We investigated the underlying reason causing inconclusive ABO serology in samples referred to our laboratory.

Study Design and Methods

Flow cytometric analysis,ABOgenotyping, and sequencing were used to characterize ABO‐discrepant blood samples (n = 13).ABO gene variants were inserted in a GFP‐containing bicistronic vector to assess A/B expression following overexpression in HeLa cells.

Results

Seven novel alleles with nonsense mutations predicted to truncate the encoded ABO glycosyltransferases were identified. While these variants could representOalleles, serology showed signs of ABO glycosyltransferase activity.ABO*A1.01‐related alleles displayed remarkably characteristic percentages of A‐positive cells for samples with the same variant: c.42C>A (p.Cys14*; 10%), c.102C>A (p.Tyr34*; 31%–32%,n = 2), c.106dup (p.Val36Glyfs*21; 16%–17%,n = 3) or c.181_182ins (p.Leu61Argfs*21; 12%–13%, n = 2). Transfection studies confirmed significantly decreased A expression compared to wild type. The remaining variants were found onABO*B.01background: c.1_5dup (pGly3Trpfs*20), c.15dup (p.Arg6Alafs*51) or c.496del (p.Thr166Profs*26). Although the absence of plasma anti‐B was noted overall, B antigen expression was barely detected on erythrocytes. Overexpression confirmed decreased B in two variants compared to wildtype while c.1_5dup only showed a non‐significant downward trend.

Conclusion

Samples displaying aberrant ABO serology revealed seven principally interesting alleles. Despite the presence of truncating mutations, normally resulting in null alleles, low levels of ABO antigens were detectable where alterations affectedABOexons 1–4 but not exon 7. This is compatible with the previously proposed concept that alternative start codons in early exons can be used to initiate the translation of functional ABO glycosyltransferase.
Generic classification and asymptotic enumeration of dope matrices
Authors: Bisain Ankit
Published: September 2023

For a complex polynomial of degree and an ‐tuple of distinct complex numbers , the dope matrix is defined as the matrix with if and otherwise. We classify the set of dope matrices when the entries of are algebraically independent, resolving a conjecture of Alon, Kravitz, and O'Bryant. We also provide asymptotic upper and lower bounds on the total number of dope matrices. For much smaller than , these bounds give an asymptotic estimate of the logarithm of the number of dope matrices.
A Cultural-Equity-Centered Guide to Inclusive Curriculum Change in Higher Education Kinesiology
Authors: Culp Brian
Published: September 2023

Inclusiveness in higher education has received increased attention, as institutions are seeking to be more proactive in meeting the needs of a diverse student body. While university departments have noted inclusive excellence as a goal for their programs, how this is realized is often unclear or difficult to assess. Equally troubling is the scarcity of ideas on how curriculum can be enhanced for transformative change, radical possibility, antiracism, and social justice. This article attempts to rectify these issues by presenting thoughts on curriculum change and program development in higher education kinesiology using a cultural equity approach.
The microbial-derived bile acid lithocholate and its epimers inhibit
Clostridioides difficile
growth and pathogenicity while sparing members of the gut microbiota
Authors: Kisthardt Samantha C. , Thanissery Rajani , Pike Colleen M. , Foley Matthew H. , Theriot Casey M.
Published: September 2023

Clostridioides difficile
is a Gram-positive, spore-forming anaerobe that causes clinical diseases ranging from diarrhea and pseudomembranous colitis to toxic megacolon and death.
C. difficile
infection (CDI) is associated with antibiotic usage, which disrupts the indigenous gut microbiota and causes the loss of microbial-derived secondary bile acids that normally provide protection against
C. difficile
colonization. Previous work has shown that the secondary bile acid lithocholate (LCA) and its epimer isolithocholate (iLCA) have potent inhibitory activity against clinically relevant
C. difficile
strains. To further characterize the mechanisms by which LCA and its epimers iLCA and isoallolithocholate (iaLCA) inhibit
C. difficile,
we tested their minimum inhibitory concentration against
C. difficile
R20291 and a commensal gut microbiota panel. We also performed a series of experiments to determine the mechanism of action by which LCA and its epimers inhibit
C. difficile
through bacterial killing and effects on toxin expression and activity. Additionally, we tested the cytotoxicity of these bile acids through Caco-2 cell apoptosis and viability assays to gauge their effects on the host. Here, we show that the epimers iLCA and iaLCA strongly inhibit
C. difficile
growth
in vitro
while sparing most commensal Gram-negative gut microbes. We also show that iLCA and iaLCA have bactericidal activity against
C. difficile,
and these epimers cause significant bacterial membrane damage at subinhibitory concentrations. Finally, we observe that iLCA and iaLCA decrease the expression of the large cytotoxin
tcdA
, while LCA significantly reduces toxin activity. Although iLCA and iaLCA are both epimers of LCA, they have distinct mechanisms for inhibiting
C. difficile
. LCA epimers, iLCA and iaLCA, represent promising compounds that target
C. difficile
with minimal effects on members of the gut microbiota that are important for colonization resistance.

IMPORTANCE

In the search for a novel therapeutic that targets
Clostridioides difficile
, bile acids have become a viable solution. Epimers of bile acids are particularly attractive as they may provide protection against
C. difficile
while leaving the indigenous gut microbiota largely unaltered. This study shows that LCA epimers isolithocholate (iLCA) and LCA epimers isoallolithocholate (iaLCA) specifically are potent inhibitors of
C. difficile,
affecting key virulence factors including growth, toxin expression, and activity. As we move toward the use of bile acids as therapeutics, further work will be required to determine how best to deliver these bile acids to a target site within the host intestinal tract.
The
mef
(A)/
msr
(D)-carrying streptococcal prophage Φ1207.3 encodes an SOS-like system, induced by UV-C light, responsible for increased survival and increased mutation rate
Authors: Fox Valeria , Santoro Francesco , Apicella Carmen , Diaz-Diaz Sara , Rodriguez-Martínez Josè Manuel , Iannelli Francesco , Pozzi Gianni
Published: September 2023

Bacterial SOS response is an inducible system of DNA repair and mutagenesis. Streptococci lack a canonical SOS response, but an SOS-like response was reported in some species. The
mef
(A)-
msr
(D)-carrying prophage Ф1207.3 of
Streptococcus pyogenes
contains a region, spanning
orf6
to
orf11
, showing homology to characterized streptococcal SOS-like cassettes. Genome-wide homology search showed the presence of the whole Φ1207.3 SOS-like cassette in three
S
.
pyogenes
prophages, while parts of it were found in other bacterial species. To investigate whether this cassette confers an SOS-mutagenesis phenotype, we constructed
Streptococcus pneumoniae
R6 isogenic derivative strains: (i) FR172, streptomycin resistant, (ii) FR173, carrying Φ1207.3, and (iii) FR174, carrying a recombinant Φ1207.3, where the SOS-like cassette was deleted. These strains were used in survival and mutation rate assays using a UV-C LED instrument, for which we designed and 3D-printed a customized equipment, constituted of an instrument support and swappable-autoclavable mini-plates and lids. Upon exposure to UV fluences ranging from 0 to 6,400 J/m
2
at four different wavelengths, 255, 265, 275, and 285 nm, we found that the presence of Φ1207.3 SOS-like cassette increases bacterial survival up to 34-fold. Mutation rate was determined by measuring rifampicin resistance acquisition upon exposure to UV fluence of 50 J/m
2
at the four wavelengths by fluctuation test. The presence of Φ1207.3 SOS-like cassette resulted in a significant increase in the mutation rate (up to 18-fold) at every wavelength. In conclusion, we demonstrated that Φ1207.3 carries a functional SOS-like cassette responsible for an increased survival and increased mutation rate in
S. pneumoniae
.

IMPORTANCE

Bacterial mutation rate is generally low, but stress conditions and DNA damage can induce stress response systems, which allow for improved survival and continuous replication. The SOS response is a DNA repair mechanism activated by some bacteria in response to stressful conditions, which leads to a temporary hypermutable phenotype and is usually absent in streptococcal genomes. Here, using a reproducible and controlled UV irradiation system, we demonstrated that the SOS-like gene cassette of prophage Φ1207.3 is functional, responsible for a temporary hypermutable phenotype, and enhances bacterial survival to UV irradiation. Prophage Φ1207.3 also carries erythromycin resistance genes and can lysogenize different pathogenic bacteria, constituting an example of a mobile genetic element which can confer multiple phenotypes to its host.
The human cellular protein NoL12 is a specific partner of the HIV-1 nucleocapsid protein NCp7
Authors: Zgheib Sarwat , Taha Nedal , Zeiger Manon , Glushonkov Oleksandr , Lequeu Thiebault , Anton Halina , Didier Pascal , Boutant Emmanuel , Mély Yves , Réal Eléonore
Published: September 2023

The human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) nucleocapsid protein (NCp7) is a nucleic acid chaperone protein with two highly conserved zinc fingers. To exert its key roles in the viral cycle, NCp7 interacts with several host proteins. Among them, the human NoL12 protein (hNoL12) was previously identified in genome wide screens as a potential partner of NCp7. hNoL12 is a highly conserved 25 kDa nucleolar RNA-binding protein implicated in the 5′end processing of ribosomal RNA in the nucleolus and thus in the assembly and maturation of ribosomes. In this work, we confirmed the NCp7/hNoL12 interaction in cells by Förster resonance energy transfer visualized by Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy and co-immunoprecipitation. The interaction between NCp7 and hNoL12 was found to strongly depend on their both binding to RNA, as shown by the loss of interaction when the cell lysates were pretreated with RNase. Deletion mutants of hNoL12 were tested for their co-immunoprecipitation with NCp7, leading to the identification of the exonuclease domain of hNoL12 as the binding domain for NCp7. Finally, the interaction with hNoL12 was found to be specific of the mature NCp7 and to require NCp7 basic residues.

IMPORTANCE

HIV-1 mature nucleocapsid (NCp7) results from the maturation of the Gag precursor in the viral particle and is thus mostly abundant in the first phase of the infection which ends with the genomic viral DNA integration in the cell genome. Most if not all the nucleocapsid partners identified so far are not specific of the mature form. We described here the specific interaction in the nucleolus between NCp7 and the human nucleolar protein 12, a protein implicated in ribosomal RNA maturation and DNA damage response. This interaction takes place in the cell nucleolus, a subcellular compartment where NCp7 accumulates. The absence of binding between hNoL12 and Gag makes hNoL12 one of the few known specific cellular partners of NCp7.
Draft genome sequence of
Streptomyces
sp. OS603R isolated from holy basil roots with promising antimicrobial and antitumor potential
Authors: Mhuantong Wuttichai , Kwandee Wongsakorn , Boondireke Sirirat , Kongrit Darika
Published: September 2023

We report the genome sequence of
Streptomyces
sp. OS603R, isolated from holy basil roots. The strain possesses genes potentially responsible for antimicrobial and antitumor agents. The genome assembly comprises 7,521,075 bps with 72.29% GC content. The genome provides the basis for studies involving genes related to relevant bioactive compounds.
Libman-Sacks endocarditis: regression after immunosuppressive and antiplatelet therapy in a patient with newly diagnosed systemic lupus erythematosus and positive antiphospholipid antibodies
Authors: Tran Hai Yen , Duong Cong Linh , Nguyen Thi Huyen , Nguyen Tuan Viet
Published: September 2023

A woman in her 40s went to the hospital due to persistent headaches. On physical examination, a diastolic murmur in the third sternal intercostal space was the only finding. Echocardiograms were performed, revealing moderate aortic regurgitation and heterogeneously echoreflectant masses of variable shape with no independent mobility, mainly located on the ventricular side of the coaptation point of the three aortic cusps. Initially, aortic septic endocarditis was diagnosed, but no evidence of infection was found. Immunology blood tests were then performed, which determined the presence of systemic lupus erythematosus along with positive antiphospholipid antibodies. The diagnosis of Libman-Sacks endocarditis (LSEn) was established. After receiving steroids, hydroxychloroquine and aspirin, the aortic valvular lesions regressed significantly. This suggests that early treatment with anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic medications in the initial phase of LSEn may prevent the progression of valve deterioration.