bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zircon Microstructures in Large, Deeply Eroded Impact Structures and Terrestrial Seismites
Authors: Garde A A , Johansson L , Keulen N , Schreiber A , Wirth R
Published: October 2023

Extraterrestrial cratering was a critical component in the evolution of the early Earth, but discovery of very ancient and deeply exhumed impact structures remains elusive, as identification tools are in short supply. The recognition of such structures is hindered by post-cratering geological processes, whereby impact-induced features common in younger, upper-crustal craters may be lost. In this study, we make a detailed analysis of planar microstructures in zircons from four large, confirmed impact structures (Manicouagan, Rochechouart, Sudbury, Vredefort) preserved at different crustal levels, from two previously described non-impact seismites in SW Norway and northern Italy, and from the 3.0 Ga Maniitsoq structure in West Greenland. A total of ~3400 zircon grains were studied using exterior and interior scanning and transmission electron microscopy. We show for the first time that shocked zircons contain two successive, principally different types of planar microstructures, only one of which is diagnostic of impact. Closely spaced, contiguous microplanes (CP) are formed first, presumably by the shock wave. In Manicouagan and Rochechouart zircons the exterior CPs have ultrathin interior counterparts of straight dislocation arrays, as identified in Manicouagan zircon using transmission electron microscopy. They have the same close spacing and orientations as the exterior CPs and are abundantly decorated with tiny pores down to less than 50 nm across. These interior CPs are identical to shock-induced decorated, partly annealed amorphous planar microstructures in quartz (planar deformation features, PDFs) and are interpreted as such. The second type is open planar fractures (PF). They are widely and irregularly spaced and texturally younger than the CPs. They re-use and displace the CP orientations, which they cut in stepwise fashion. We interpret these PFs as formed by impact-induced seismic shaking in the wake of the shock wave. We confirm two previous reports of isolated planar fractures in zircons from non-impact seismites, showing that PFs per se are not impact-diagnostic. There are no CPs in any of these zircons. Zircons from different parts of the Maniitsoq structure contain CPs in various states of preservation besides PFs, corroborating that this very large and very deeply exhumed structure resulted from an extraterrestrial impact.
The multiple activations in budding yeast S-phase checkpoint are Poisson processes
Authors: Gao Xin , Zhou Peijie , Li Fangting
Published: October 2023

Eukaryotic cells activate the S-phase checkpoint signal transduction pathway in response to DNA replication stress. Affected by the noise in biochemical reactions, such activation process demonstrates cell-to-cell variability. Here, through the analysis of microfluidics-integrated time-lapse imaging, we found multiple S-phase checkpoint activations in a certain budding yeast cell cycle. Yeast cells not only varied in their activation moments but also differed in the number of activations within the cell cycle, resulting in a stochastic multiple activation process. By investigating dynamics at the single-cell level, we showed that stochastic waiting times between consecutive activations are exponentially distributed and independent from each other. Finite DNA replication time provides a robust upper time limit to the duration of multiple activations. The mathematical model, together with further experimental evidence from the mutant strain, revealed that the number of activations under different levels of replication stress agreed well with Poisson distribution. Therefore, the activation events of S-phase checkpoint meet the criterion of Poisson process during DNA replication. In sum, the observed Poisson activation process may provide new insights into the complex stochastic dynamics of signal transduction pathways.
The response of Arabidopsis to the apocarotenoid β-cyclocitric acid reveals a role for SIAMESE-RELATED 5 in root development and drought tolerance
Authors: Braat Jeanne , Jaonina Meryl , David Pascale , Leschevin Maïté , Légeret Bertrand , D’Alessandro Stefano , Beisson Frédéric , Havaux Michel
Published: October 2023

New regulatory functions in plant development and environmental stress responses have recently emerged for a number of apocarotenoids produced by enzymatic or nonenzymatic oxidation of carotenoids. β-Cyclocitric acid (β-CCA) is one such compound derived from β-carotene, which triggers defense mechanisms leading to a marked enhancement of plant tolerance to drought stress. We show here that this response is associated with an inhibition of root growth affecting both root cell elongation and division. Remarkably, β-CCA selectively induced cell cycle inhibitors of the SIAMESE-RELATED (SMR) family, especially SMR5, in root tip cells. Overexpression of the SMR5 gene in Arabidopsis induced molecular and physiological changes that mimicked in large part the effects of β-CCA. In particular, the SMR5 overexpressors exhibited an inhibition of root development and a marked increase in drought tolerance which is not related to stomatal closure. SMR5 up-regulation induced changes in gene expression that strongly overlapped with the β-CCA–induced transcriptomic changes. Both β-CCA and SMR5 led to a down-regulation of many cell cycle activators (cyclins, cyclin-dependent kinases) and a concomitant up-regulation of genes related to water deprivation, cellular detoxification, and biosynthesis of lipid biopolymers such as suberin and lignin. This was correlated with an accumulation of suberin lipid polyesters in the roots and a decrease in nonstomatal leaf transpiration. Taken together, our results identify the β-CCA–inducible and drought-inducible SMR5 gene as a key component of a stress-signaling pathway that reorients root metabolism from growth to multiple defense mechanisms leading to drought tolerance.
Regulatory Effects of Diverse DSF Family Quorum-Sensing Signals in Plant-Associated Bacteria
Authors: Li Kaihuai , Ma Chaoyun , Zhou Xue , Xiong Chunlan , Wang Bo , Wang Yong , Liu Fengquan
Published: October 2023

Numerous bacterial species employ diffusible signal factor (DSF)-based quorum sensing (QS) as a widely conserved cell–cell signaling communication system to collectively regulate various behaviors crucial for responding to environmental changes. cis-11-Methyl-dodecenoic acid, known as DSF, was first identified as a signaling molecule in Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris. Subsequently, many structurally related molecules have been identified in different bacterial species. This review aims to provide an overview of current understanding regarding the biosynthesis and regulatory role of DSF signals in both pathogenic bacteria and a biocontrol bacterium. Recent studies have revealed that the DSF-based QS system regulates antimicrobial factor production in a cyclic dimeric GMP-independent manner in the biocontrol bacterium Lysobacter enzymogenes. Additionally, the DSF family signals have been found to be involved in suppressing plant innate immunity. The discovery of these diverse signaling mechanisms holds significant promise for developing novel strategies to combat stubborn plant pathogens.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
The SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleocapsid protein suppresses innate immunity by remodeling stress granules to atypical foci
Authors: He Su , Gou Hongwei , Zhou Yulin , Wu Chunxiu , Ren Xinxin , Wu Xiajunpeng , Guan Guanwen , Jin Boxing , Huang Jinhua , Jin Zhigang , Zhao Tiejun
Published: October 2023

Viruses deploy multiple strategies to suppress the host innate immune response to facilitate viral replication and pathogenesis. Typical G3BP1+ stress granules (SGs) are usually formed in host cells after virus infection to restrain viral translation and to stimulate innate immunity. Thus, viruses have evolved various mechanisms to inhibit SGs or to repurpose SG components such as G3BP1. Previous studies showed that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection inhibited host immunity during the early stage of COVID‐19. However, the precise mechanism is not yet well understood. Here we showed that the SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleocapsid (SARS2‐N) protein suppressed the double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA)‐induced innate immune response, concomitant with inhibition of SGs and the induction of atypical SARS2‐N+/G3BP1+ foci (N+foci). The SARS2‐N protein–induced formation of N+foci was dependent on the ability of its ITFG motif to hijack G3BP1, which contributed to suppress the innate immune response. Importantly, SARS2‐N protein facilitated viral replication by inducing the formation of N+foci. Viral mutations within SARS2‐N protein that impair the formation of N+foci are associated with the inability of the SARS2‐N protein to suppress the immune response. Taken together, our study has revealed a novel mechanism by which SARS‐CoV‐2 suppresses the innate immune response via induction of atypical N+foci. We think that this is a critical strategy for viral pathogenesis and has potential therapeutic implications.
Optimizing Blood Culture Collection Volumes
Authors: Smith Leslie , Ali-Napo Ruth , Ben-Zeev Deborah , Olawuyi Justina
Published: October 2023

Infection in an immunocompromised person can be a life-threatening emergency. Collection of blood culture specimens is an important method for detecting organisms when infection is suspected. One aspect of proper blood culture collection is obtaining an accurate blood volume in the sample in accordance with the blood culture bottle manufacturer's recommendation. Underfilling the culture bottle can lead to false-negative results, while overfilling it can lead to false-positive results. At our institution, the Department of Laboratory Medicine (DLM) routinely monitors blood culture bottle volumes and notifies the nursing department of underfill/overfill events, which the department then reviews. Over several years, the DLM and the nursing department noted an increase in these events. A clinical nurse specialist and three staff nurses in the oncology/critical care services area partnered with the DLM to determine why. Upon investigation, two key issues—imprecise weighing of bottles and staff misunderstanding of the proper blood culture collection technique—were discovered. In response, the nursing standard of practice and guidance on the DLM webpage were updated and nursing education was performed. As a result, underfill/overfill events decreased by 71% in a little over a year.
Fewer Unnecessary Urine Cultures Is Key to Reducing Antibiotic Treatment for Asymptomatic Bacteriuria
Authors: Rosenberg Karen
Published: October 2023

According to this study:
Target-controlled Infusion of Remimazolam in Healthy Volunteers Shows Some Acute Tolerance
Authors: Vellinga Remco , Koomen Jeroen V. , Eleveld Douglas J. , Stöhr Thomas , Pesic Marija , Struys Michel M. R. F. , Colin Pieter J.
Published: October 2023

Background

Remimazolam exhibits sedative properties by binding to γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptors. Remimazolam is administered as a bolus dose or continuous infusion, but has not been studied using target-controlled infusion (TCI). The study quantified the relationship between the remimazolam concentration, Modified Observer’s Assessment of Alertness and Sedation (MOAAS) score, and bispectral index (BIS) using TCI.

Methods

The authors performed a three-period, crossover, dose-ranging clinical trial in 24 healthy volunteers using age and sex stratification. Data collected in the first period, where remimazolam was administered alone using a step-up and step-down TCI protocol, were used for this analysis. Remimazolam concentrations, MOAAS scores, and BIS values were collected at each step at steady state. Data were analyzed using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling methodology.

Results

The relationship between remimazolam, BIS, and MOAAS differed between step-up and step-down infusions at similar remimazolam target concentrations. Tolerance, driven by remimazolam or CNS7054, significantly improved overall model fit (P < 0.01) for both BIS and MOAAS models. After 30 min of repeated bolus dosing, mimicking the regimen in the label for procedural sedation, the BIS and probability of MOAAS 2/3 were predicted to be 54 (95% prediction interval, 44 to 67) and 2% (95% prediction interval, 0 to 32%) versus 58 (95% prediction interval, 48 to 70) and 8% (95% prediction interval, 0 to 36%) in a model without and with tolerance, respectively. After 60 min of continuous infusion, mimicking the regimen in the label for general anesthesia, the BIS and probability of MOAAS 0 were predicted to be 40 (95% prediction interval, 33 to 50) and 87% (95% prediction interval, 18 to 100%) versus 50 (95% prediction interval, 41 to 60) and 59% (95% prediction interval, 6 to 99%) in a model without and with tolerance, respectively.

Conclusions

In this study, it was shown that remimazolam-induced sedation is prone to tolerance development, which is potentially mediated by the CNS7054 concentration. The clinical consequences are, however, limited in situations where remimazolam is titrated to effect.

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What We Already Know about This Topic

What This Article Tells Us That Is New
Pegozafermin Is a Potential Master Therapeutic Regulator in Metabolic Disorders: A Review
Authors: Bailey Nadian N. , Peterson Stephen J. , Parikh Manish A. , Jackson Kaedrea A. , Frishman William H.
Published: October 2023

Pegozafermin (PGZ), a novel glycopegylated version of human fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), has demonstrated potential for addressing metabolic comorbidities, including severe hypertriglyceridemia, insulin resistance, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and obesity. FGF21 is a naturally occurring peptide hormone primarily produced by the liver, with a half-life of 0.5 to 2 hours. It can influence metabolic processes through endocrine cellular effects. FGF21 receptors are found in the liver, adipose, skeletal muscles, and pancreatic tissues. Those receptors rely on the beta klotho (KLB) coreceptors, a transmembrane protein, to activate the FGF21 signaling pathway and FGF21’s associated transcription factors. PGZ, through its extended half-life of 55 to 100 hours, has evidenced significant improvements in metabolic functions. Its mechanism of action includes promoting adiponectin levels, enhancing insulin sensitivity, increasing triglyceride uptake, and reducing de novo lipogenesis. This emerging pharmaceutical compound has shown promise in treating liver fibrosis and inflammation linked to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. The ENTRIGUE trial, a phase 2 clinical trial of PGZ, has demonstrated a 57% reduction in triglyceride level compared to placebo; a 45% reduction in liver hepatic steatosis; improved insulin sensitivity; reductions in nonhigh-density lipoprotein-cholesterol; and reductions in apolipoprotein B-100.
Fleur-de-lis Miniabdominoplasty Access in Radical Resection of a Large Abdominal Wall Desmoid Tumor
Authors: Chen Ching-En , Kao Yi-Chu , Ku Shi-Han
Published: October 2023

Desmoid tumor (DT) is a rare benign soft tissue neoplasm that develops in the musculoaponeurotic structures, one-third of which involve the abdominal wall. Due to local aggressive infiltration of DT, the recurrence rate is approximately 45%–77%, according to the locations of the tumors, and 25%–50% for those with unclear surgical margins. Limited by adverse effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, surgical excision is still the standard management recommended. Differing from traditional midline or abdominoplasty access, we applied a fleur-de-lis miniabdominoplasty access in a 37-year-old woman who had primary abdominal wall DT with less than 1 cm depth from the umbilicus. The approach not only provides a better surgical field for radical tumor excision but also eliminates redundant skin and dog-ear formation at bilateral flanks. An appropriate surgical margin could be processed simultaneously when the tumor was close to the skin surface. After abdominal wall reconstruction, the postoperative course was uneventful, and no DT recurrence or incisional hernia was noted during the follow-up. The patient was satisfied with the tumor treatment and aesthetic outcome.
Manual Superficial Keratectomy Is the First Choice Treatment for Salzmann Nodular Degeneration
Authors: Scorsetti M. Micaela , Eguiza V. Sergio , Durán Juan A.
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

This study aimed to describe the optical and topographic changes after manual superficial keratectomy (MSK) for Salzmann nodular degeneration.

Methods:

This was a descriptive, retrospective study. All patients with a clinical diagnosis of Salzmann nodular degeneration were examined at the Cornea Service of the Instituto Clínico Quirúrgico de Oftalmología (ICQO), Bilbao, Spain, and treated with MSK after presenting ocular discomfort and/or decreased visual acuity. The clinical characteristics (including anterior segment optical coherence tomography and Pentacam topography), treatment regimens, surgical procedures, and outcomes were recorded. Descriptive statistics were constructed using mean ± SD, minimum, maximum, and median. The Shapiro–Wilk normality test was used. The Student t test was used to determine significance.

Results:

Ten eyes of 9 patients were included in this study: 6 patients (66.6%) were female and 3 were male (33.3%). The mean age was 62.2 years, and the follow-up time was between 5 and 21 months. The best-corrected visual acuity before MSK was 0.20 LogMAR (median) and improved to 0.10 after the surgical procedure. The mean spherical equivalent was reduced from −0.23 ± 3.39 D preoperatively to −1.3 ± 3.0 D postoperatively. Astigmatism decreased between 0.5 and 3.75 D. Topographic irregularity normalized total root mean square from 11,596.4 ± 6854.01 to 4817.2 ± 2725.68 μm.

Conclusions:

MSK is an effective and safe technique for the treatment of Salzmann nodular degeneration when the Bowman layer is preserved. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography and corneal topography are essential tools for the surgical plan and for the detection of corneal aberrations.
Early referrals save lives in advanced heart failure
Authors: Wu Yu , Nam Yuri , Yurkova Irina , Rich Angel , Gao Lina
Published: October 2023

Heart failure (HF) is a chronic, progressive medical condition that can quickly cause deterioration of the patient's medical and functional status. Delay of HF diagnosis and improper treatment can lead to catastrophic patient outcomes. This case report describes a 62-year-old with HF with reduced ejection fraction secondary to nonischemic cardiomyopathy, s/p cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator in 2020. He presented to the emergency department for worsening shortness of breath and chest pain for 3 days and subsequently had cardiac arrest. The patient eventually underwent a successful implantation of left ventricular assist device as a bridge to transplant. Timely referral yields a better patient outcome. This case study illustrates a clinical pathway that can be used by primary care providers when considering referral of a patient with advanced HF (AHF) to an AHF center for management and possible advanced therapies.
Brief Report: Dolutegravir Plasma Protein Binding and Unbound Concentrations During Pregnancy and Postpartum
Authors: Momper Jeremiah D. , Nikanjam Mina , Best Brookie M. , Mirochnick Mark , Capparelli Edmund V. , Cressey Tim R.
Published: October 2023

Background:

Clinical interpretation of the reduced dolutegravir (DTG) plasma concentrations reported during pregnancy is complicated by its high plasma protein binding. Plasma proteins significantly decrease during pregnancy, and understanding changes in DTG protein binding and its therapeutically active unbound concentrations are necessary to evaluate the impact of pregnancy changes on DTG pharmacokinetics.

Methods:

Retrospective assessment of plasma samples from pregnant women living with HIV enrolled in the International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent AIDS Clinical Trials Network P1026s study receiving 50 mg DTG film–coated tablets once daily as part of clinical care. Unbound and total DTG concentrations were determined predose (C0) and at maximum (Cmax) concentrations during the second trimester (2T), third trimester (3T), and postpartum (PP). Percentage unbound was calculated as the ratio of ultrafiltrate unbound DTG concentration to total DTG concentration.

Results:

Twenty-nine mothers were included for protein binding evaluations; 15, 27, and 23 from the 2T, 3T, and PP, respectively. DTG % unbound for C0 and Cmax were significantly different by stage of pregnancy, with 3T significantly higher compared with PP; 1.02% vs. 0.69% (P = 0.0067) for C0 and 0.76% vs. 0.46% for Cmax (P = 0.0056). Median (IQR) unbound concentrations for C0 were 6.3 (4.7–18.4) for the 2T, 8.0 (5.6–16.9) for the 3T, and 13.3 (8.4–22.7) ng/mL PP, significantly different between 2T and PP (P = 0.0039), but not different between 3T and PP (P = 0.46).

Conclusion:

Lower total DTG plasma concentrations during pregnancy coincide with temporal decreases in DTG protein binding, resulting in comparable unbound DTG concentrations during the 3T and PP.
Pontibacter kalidii sp. nov., isolated from rhizosphere soil of Kalidium foliatum
Authors: Wang Hui-Nan , Jiang Ling , Osman Ghenijan , Chu Min , Gu Mei-Ying , Tang Qi-Yong , Zhu Yan-Lei , Zhu Jing , Zhang Zhi-Dong
Published: October 2023

A Gram-negative, aerobic, gliding motile, rod-shaped bacterium, designated XAAS-72T, was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of Kalidium foliatum sampled in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, PR China. Cells grew at 4–45 °C, pH 5.0–8.0 and 0–8% NaCl, with optimal growth at 20–30 °C, pH 6.0–7.0 and 1–2 % NaCl. Strain XAAS-72T is closely related to members of the genus

Pontibacter

, namely

Pontibacter korlensis

CCTCC AB 206081T (97.6%) and

Pontibacter flavimaris

ACCC 19859T (97.2 %), and <94.6 % related to other currently described

Pontibacter

strains. The average nucleotide identity values between XAAS-72T and

P. korlensis

CCTCC AB 206081T and

P. flavimaris

ACCC 19859T were 77.9 and 86.9 %, respectively; the corresponding digital DNA–DNA hybridization values were 21.7 and 31.8 %. Menaquinone-7 was the predominant respiratory menaquinone. The polar lipids consisted of phosphatidylethanolamine, two unidentified aminophospholipids, two unidentified glycolipids and five unidentified lipids. The major cellular fatty acids were summed feature 4 (containing iso-C17 : 1 I/anteiso-C17 : 1 B), summed feature 3 (containing C16 : 1
 ω7c/C16 : 1
 ω6c) and iso-C15 : 0. The genome length of strain XAAS-72T was 5 054 860 bp with a genomic DNA G+C content of 54.5 mol%. The phenotypic and genotypic data suggest that strain XAAS-72T represents a novel species of the genus

Pontibacter

, for which the name Pontibacter kalidii sp. nov. is proposed. The strain is XAAS-72T (CGMCC 16594T=KCTC 72095T).
Paenimyroides aestuarii gen. nov. sp. nov., a novel bacterium isolated from sediment in the Pearl River Estuary and reclassification of five Flavobacterium and four Myroides species
Authors: Zhang Kun , Cui Linqing , Zeng Qi , Shi Songbiao , long Lijuan , Tian Xinpeng
Published: October 2023

An aerobic, Gram-negative, non-motile, yellow-to-orange pigmented and round bacterium, designated strain SCSIO 72103T, was isolated from sediment collected in the Pearl River Estuary, Guangdong Province, PR China and subjected to a polyphasic taxonomic study. Growth occurred at 20–37 °C (optimum, 28 °C), pH 6–8 (optimum, pH 7) and with 1–5.5% NaCl (optimum, 1–3 %). Comparative 16S rRNA gene analysis indicated that strain SCSIO 72103T had the highest similarities to

Flavobacterium baculatum

SNL9T (94.7 %) and

Myroides aquimaris

SW105T (94.2 %). Phylogenetic analysis based 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain SCSIO 72103T formed a single clade with

M. aquimaris

SW105T. Strain SCSIO 72103T contained iso-C15 : 0 as the major fatty acid and the predominant respiratory quinone was menaquinone MK-6. These characteristics are consistent with those of

F. baculatum

SNL9T and

M. aquimaris

SW105T. Phosphatidylethanolamine, most notably, unidentified aminolipid and unidentified aminophospholipid were major polar lipids. Strain SCSIO 72103T had a single circular chromosome of 2.96 Mb with a DNA G+C content of 35.1 mol%. The average nucleotide identity, average amino acid identity (AAI) and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values showed that the pairwise similarities between SCSIO 72103T and the type strains of

F. baculatum

SNL9T and

M. aquimaris

SW105T were 78.5–80.5 %, 79.0–81.4 % and 22.7–22.8 %, respectively. The AAI values between species in this clade and the type species of

Flavobacterium

and

Myroides

were below the 65 % threshold, indicating that these species belong to a novel genus. On the basis of phylogenetic, physiological and chemotaxonomic characteristics, strain SCSIO 72103T represents a new species of a novel genus, for which the name Paenimyroides aestuarii gen. nov. sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SCSIO 72103T (=KCTC 92043T=MCCC 1K06659T). It is also proposed that nine known species in the genera

Flavobacterium

and

Myroides

are reclassified as Paenimyroides species.
Jeotgalibaca caeni sp. nov., isolated from biochemical tank sludge
Authors: Geng Keke , Liu Le , Wu Ningning , Cheng Dan , Shao Jiahui , He Jian , Shen Qirong
Published: October 2023

A Gram-stain-positive, coccoid-shaped, non-spore-forming, facultatively anaerobic bacterium, designated YN-L-12T, was isolated from the activate sludge of a pesticide plant. Colonies on tryptone soya agar were small, white, opaque and circular. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain YN-L-12T belonged to the genus of

Jeotgalibaca

, and showed the highest similarity to

Jeotgalibaca arthritidis

1805-02T (97.0 %), followed by

Jeotgalibaca ciconiae

H21T32T (96.5 %),

Jeotgalibaca porci

1804-02T (95.6 %) and

Jeotgalibaca dankookensis

EX-07T (95.4 %). The strain grew at 15–37 °C (optimum, 30 °C), with 0–6.5 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0.5 %) and at pH 7–9 (optimum, pH 7.5). The major fatty acids were C18 : 1 ω9c, C16 : 1 ω9c and C16 : 0. The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, glycolipid and an unidentified lipid. The DNA G+C content of the strain was 41.1 mol%. Average nucleotide identity values between strain YN-L-12T and

J. arthritidis

1805-02T and

J. ciconiae

H21T32T were 72.8 and 72.3 %, respectively. The digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between YN-L-12T and

J. arthritidis

1805-02T and

J. ciconiae

H21T32T were 24.1 and 20.3 %, respectively. According to the results of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic analyses, strain YN-L-12T represents a novel species of the genus

Jeotgalibaca

, for which the name Jeotgalibaca caeni sp. nov. is proposed, with strain YN-L-12T (=KCTC 43533T=CCTCC AB 2022400T) as the type strain.
Combating stigma: development and implementation of an education resource on older adults behavioral health challenges
Authors: Mackiewicz Marissa Katerina , Slattum Patricia , Waters Leland
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the development, implementation and evolution of a multi-media educational tool to improve health profession students’ knowledge and awareness of stigma and ageism on the treatment of older adults with substance use disorder (SUD). In addition, this paper outlines the relationship between mental health and SUD and the impact of health provider stigmatization of older adults with behavioral health needs and the relationship between SUD and mental illness.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review was conducted and initial project outlines was developed. Ten interviews were completed with content experts. The draft video was reviewed and minor revisions were incorporated. The facilitator guide accompanying the video was developed. A draft of the facilitator guide was shared with several interprofessional university faculty and the older adults with SUD. The video was presented to groups of health professions students, and following each video viewing, discussion content was used to provide additional edits.

Findings

The educational resources created for this project are appropriate for health professions curriculums related to older adults. Interprofessional health professions students are developing a basic foundation of knowledge on SUD through their standard coursework. More compassionate vocabulary is slowly being incorporated into health provider. Knowledge related to treatments and resources to treat SUD is lacking. In addition, health professions students need more education focused on assessment and interventions for individuals suspected of problematic substance use.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to facilitate discussion and education around SUD for health professions students.
Educators’ roles and challenges in supporting tertiary education students’ mental health: a qualitative study in Malaysia
Authors: Soo Yue Yin , Wong Yuet Yen , Ong Siew Chin , Ooi Guat See
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Educators play a vital role in supporting tertiary education students’ mental health, as they have frequent interactions with their students. However, information on the strategies and difficulties educators face in this area is scarce, particularly within the multi-ethnic Asian population. Therefore, this study aims to explore Malaysian educators’ roles and challenges in handling students with mental health issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample of 12 educators from tertiary education in Malaysia. All interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Four themes were emerged: perceived factors contributing to mental health issues among students, educators’ strategies in supporting students’ mental health, difficulties in supporting students’ mental health and training to support students’ mental health.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study exploring the roles and challenges educators face in supporting tertiary education students’ mental health in Malaysia.
The impact of Industry 4.0 capabilities on operational performance: the mediating effect of supply chain ambidexterity
Authors: AL-Khatib Ayman wael
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The current work sought to investigate the mediating effect of supply chain ambidexterity on the relationship between Industry 4.0 capabilities and operational performance of manufacturing firms in Jordan.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection was carried out through a survey with 253 respondents from manufacturing firms in Jordan through the first quarter in 2023. The quantitative approach and structural equation modeling (SEM) were applied to analyze the collected data. Dynamic capabilities view (DCV) theory was the adopted theoretical lens for this work.

Findings

The results demonstrated that Industry 4.0 capabilities positively and significantly affect exploration, exploitation and operational performance. In addition, the results confirmed that exploration and exploitation positively and significantly affect operational performance. Further, it is also found that exploration and exploitation in the supply chain positively and significantly mediate the relationship between Industry 4.0 capabilities and operational performance.

Originality/value

This study focuses on this gap to deepen the understanding of operational performance in a recent manufacturing environment under various factors and perspectives (Industry 4.0 capabilities and supply chain ambidexterity).
Interferon‐stimulated gene 15 polymorphisms are associated with spontaneous preterm birth in Taiwanese women
Authors: Chang Tzu‐Yang , Wang Liang‐Kai , Kuo Yi‐Hsiu , Chen Chia‐Yu , Pai Tun‐Wen , Chen Chie‐Pein
Published: October 2023

Problem

Immune and inflammatory responses are known to be major causes of preterm birth (PTB). The maternal genetic background plays an important role in the development of PTB. Interferon‐stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) is an interferon‐induced protein which can modulate immune cell activation and function. We aim to study if polymorphisms in the ISG15 gene are associated with spontaneous PTB (sPTB) risk in Taiwanese women.

Method of study

ISG15 rs4615788 C/G, rs1921 G/A, and rs8997 A/G polymorphisms were genotyped in a hospital‐based study of 112 women with sPTB and 1120 term controls. The plasma concentrations of ISG15 were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

We found the ISG15 rs1921 G‐rs8997 A haplotype was associated with decreased risk for PTB (χ2 = 6.26, p = .01, pc = .04). The A/G genotype of ISG15 rs8997 polymorphism might have the potential to confer reduced risk of PTB women (χ2 = 4.09, p = .04, pc = .08). Spontaneous PTB women displayed higher plasma ISG15 levels compared to term controls (p < .001). The plasma ISG15 levels among pregnant women with rs8997 A/G genotype were found significantly lower compared to G/G genotype (p = .03).

Conclusions

Women with the ISG15 rs1921 G‐rs8997 A haplotype may associate with spontaneous PTB. These findings provide new insights into the etiology of preterm birth.
Editorial: Noninvasive tests for metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease: A refinement of the Nash‐FibroTest for type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Liu Chen‐Hua
Published: October 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Poynard et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17688
Modelling the composition of household portfolios: A latent class approach
Authors: Alzuabi Raslan , Brown Sarah , Harris Mark N. , Taylor Karl
Published: October 2023

We explore portfolio allocation in Great Britain by introducing a latent class modelling approach using household panel data based on a nationally representative sample of the population, namely the Wealth and Assets Survey. The latent class aspect of the model splits households into four groups, from lowest‐wealth and least‐diversified through to highest‐wealth and most‐diversified, which serves to unveil a more detailed picture of the determinants of portfolio diversification than existing econometric approaches. A pattern of class heterogeneity is revealed that conventional econometric models are unable to identify because the statistical significance and the direction of the effect of some explanatory variables vary across the groups. For example, the effect of labour income on the number of financial assets held influences the level of diversification for the two middle classes, whereas no effect is found for households with the lowest or the highest levels of diversification. Noticeable differences in the magnitude of the effects of pension wealth and occupation are also revealed across the four classes. Such findings demonstrate the importance of accounting for latent heterogeneity when modelling financial behaviour. Ultimately, treating the population as a single homogeneous group may lead to biased parameter estimates, whereby policy based on such models could be inappropriate or erroneous.
A global analysis reveals a collective gap in the transparency of offset policies and how biodiversity is measured
Authors: Marshall Erica , Southwell Darren , Wintle Brendan A. , Kujala Heini
Published: October 2023

Offsetting policies have increased worldwide, utilizing a range of biodiversity metrics to compensate for development impacts. We conducted a global analysis of offset legislation by reviewing policies from 108 countries, which have voluntary offsets, or which require offsets by law. We sought to understand how well biodiversity metrics and offset currencies are documented in current policies. Where biodiversity metrics are documented we aimed to understand how metrics were scored, combined, and multiplied to create offset currencies. We found only 22 jurisdictions (from 14 countries) had guidelines documenting how biodiversity should be assessed during offsetting, representing a significant gap in the guidance available for offsets. Of the 22 guidelines, 14 (63%) documented use of aggregated currencies, eight (23%) did not aggregate biodiversity metrics into a single currency, and three (17%) did not specify either approach. Habitat type and condition, as well as area, were widely recommended across policies (>50%). Where species‐level metrics were considered, guidelines generally focused on habitat distributions rather than abundance or population metrics. The lack of consistent and clear guidance about how biodiversity should be measured in offsets reduces our ability to determine the effectiveness of offsets in compensating for development impacts long term.
Parkinson´s disease cardiovascular symptoms: A new complex functional and structural insight
Authors: Kincl Vladimír , Panovský Roman , Bočková Martina , Rektor Ivan , Mojica‐Pisciotti Mary Luz , Máchal Jan
Published: October 2023

Background

The known impairments of the cardiovascular system in Parkinson´s disease (PD) are caused by autonomic dysfunction and manifested mainly in postural hypotension, chronotropic insufficiency, and reduced heart rate variability. Other dysfunctions, mainly stress response, arrhythmia occurrence, and heart morphology changes, are still the subject of research.

Objectives

To assess the heart rate and blood pressure reaction during exercise, advanced measurements of heart volumes and mass using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), and occurrence of arrhythmias in PD patients.

Methods

Thirty PD patients (19 men, mean age 57.5 years) without known cardiac comorbidities underwent bicycle ergometry, electrocardiogram Holter monitoring and CMR. Exercise and CMR parameters were compared with controls (24 subjects for ergometry, 20 for CMR).

Results

PD patients had lower baseline systolic blood pressure (SBP) (117.8 vs. 128.3 mmHg, p < 0.01), peak SBP (155.8 vs. 170.8 mmHg, p < 0.05), and lower heart rate increase (49.7 vs. 64.3 beats per minute, p < 0.01). PD patients had higher indexed left and right ventricular end‐diastolic volumes (68.5 vs. 57.3, p = 0.003 and 73.5 vs. 61.0 mL/m2, respectively) and also indexed left and right ventricular end‐systolic volumes (44.1 vs. 39.0, p = 0.013 and 29.0 vs. 22.0 mL/m2, p = 0.013, respectively). A high prevalence of atrial fibrillation (8 subjects, 26.7%) was found.

Conclusions

This novel study combining functional and structural approaches showed that PD is linked with weaker blood pressure and heart rate reaction during exercise, increased myocardial mass and heart volumes compared to controls, and a high prevalence of atrial fibrillation.
Indigenous Peoples' Lands are critical for safeguarding vertebrate diversity across the tropics
Authors: Sze Jocelyne S. , Childs Dylan Z. , Carrasco L. Roman , Fernández‐Llamazares Álvaro , Garnett Stephen T. , Edwards David P.
Published: October 2023

Indigenous Peoples are long‐term custodians of their lands, but only recently are their contributions to conservation starting to be recognized in biodiversity policy and practice. Tropical forest loss and degradation are lower in Indigenous lands than unprotected areas, yet the role of Indigenous Peoples' Lands (IPL) in biodiversity conservation has not been properly assessed from regional to global scales. Using species distribution ranges of 11,872 tropical forest‐dependent vertebrates to create area of habitat maps, we identified the overlap of these species ranges with IPL and then compared values inside and outside of IPL for species richness, extinction vulnerability, and range‐size rarity. Of assessed vertebrates, at least 76.8% had range overlaps with IPL, on average overlapping ~25% of their ranges; at least 120 species were found only within IPL. Species richness within IPL was highest in South America, while IPL in Southeast Asia had highest extinction vulnerability, and IPL in Dominica and New Caledonia were important for range‐size rarity. Most countries in the Americas had higher species richness within IPL than outside, whereas most countries in Asia had lower extinction vulnerability scores inside IPL and more countries in Africa and Asia had slightly higher range‐size rarity in IPL. Our findings suggest that IPL provide critical support for tropical forest‐dependent vertebrates, highlighting the need for greater inclusion of Indigenous Peoples in conservation target‐setting and program implementation, and stronger upholding of Indigenous Peoples' rights in conservation policy.
Solitary Milialike Idiopathic Calcinosis Cutis: A Case Unassociated with Down Syndrome
Authors: Lee Dong Won , Yoon Dou Hee , Lee Yeun Soo , Shim Sang In , Cho Baik Kee
Published: October 2023

We report a unique case of solitary milialike idiopathic calcinosis cutis (MICC) in a healthy Korean woman, which is not associated with Down syndrome. This case of MICC would be a form of idiopathic calcinosis cutis, which can be solitary or multiple, sporadic or associated with Down syndrome.
Hydrolytic properties of two cellulases of Trichoderma reesei expressed in yeast
Authors: Bailey MJ , Siika‐aho M. , Valkeajarvi A. , Penttila ME
Published: October 2023

Two cellulases of the filamentous fungus Trichoderma reesei, cellobiohydrolase II (CBHII, EC 3.2.1.91) and endoglucanase I (EGI, EC 3.2.1.4), produced in recombinant strains of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, were tested in the hydrolysis of cellulose, xylan and other polymeric substrates. Both enzymes were active against unsubstituted, insoluble cellulose. CBHII had greater activity than EGI against crystalline cellulose, whereas in the case of amorphous substrate the order was reversed. Evidence for synergism was obtained when mixtures of the two enzymes were used with a constant total protein dosage. The EGI was also active against soluble substituted cellulose derivatives, whereas the activity of CBHII against these substrates was insignificant. Both enzymes were active against barley (1–>3,1–>4)‐beta‐glucan, but were inactive against (1–>3,1–>6)‐beta‐glucan (laminarin). An apparent low mannan‐degrading activity of EGI against locust‐bean (Ceratonia siliqua) gum galactomannan was not confirmed when homopolymeric mannan was used as substrate in a prolonged hydrolysis test. EGI exhibited considerably greater activity against insoluble, unsubstituted hardwood xylan than against amorphous cellulose. Soluble 4‐O‐methyl‐glucuronoxylan was also attacked by EGI, although to a somewhat lesser extent than the unsubstituted xylan. By comparison with two purified xylanases of T. reesei, EGI produced xylo‐oligosaccharides with a longer mean chain length when acting on both substituted and unsubstituted xylan substrates. CBHII was inactive against xylan.
Radiolabelling of human haemoglobin using the 125I‐Bolton‐Hunter reagent is superior to oxidative iodination for conservation of the native structure of the labelled protein
Authors: Frantzen F. , DE Heggli , Sundrehagen E.
Published: October 2023

Both disruption of the native protein structure and oxidation of iron in the haem/iron(II)‐proto‐porphyrin‐IX residues were observed using the Iodo‐gen (1,3,4,6‐tetrachloro‐3 alpha,6 alpha‐diphenylglycouril) method in 125I‐labelling of haemoglobin. The reactions taking place affect the native structure of haemoglobin and result in a more acidic molecule. The detrimental effects were unaffected by the presence of iodine. Electrophoretic studies demonstrate that 125I‐labelling of haemoglobin using the Bolton‐Hunter reagent is the method of choice in order to preserve the native protein.
Effect of heterogeneity of hydrophobic moieties on surface activity of lichenysin A, a lipopeptide biosurfactant from Bacillus licheniformis BAS50
Authors: MM Yakimov , HL Fredrickson , KN Timmis
Published: October 2023

Lichenysin A, a surface‐active lipopeptide produced by Bacillus licheniformis, strain BAS50, contains longchain beta‐hydroxy fatty acids. Regulation of the synthesis of fatty acids and beta‐hydroxy fatty acids was studied by modifying the culture medium. Addition of branched‐chain alpha‐amino acids to the medium caused similar changes to both cellular fatty acid and to beta‐hydroxy fatty acid composition in the lipophilic part of lichenysin A. Production of lichenysin A was enhanced about two‐ and four‐fold by addition of L‐glutamic acid and L‐asparagine respectively. It is suggested that these amino acids may be involved in the control of lipopeptide formation. Elucidation of the structure‐function relationship of surface‐active lipopeptides by analysis of the activities of structurally characterized compounds is discussed. Fractions of lichenysin A with branched beta‐hydroxy acids in the lipid tail demonstrated lower surface‐tension activity than the fractions of lichenysin A having straight beta‐hydroxy acids. The presence of a lichenysin A fraction with beta‐hydroxymyristic [(C14)n] acid residues appears to have an important influence on the surface activity of a mixture of lichenysins A.
Invitro complex‐formation between the molecular chaperone DnaK and staphylococcal ProteinA derivatives produced in Escherichia coli and its use inthe purification of DnaK
Authors: Gustavsson Kristina , Bergman Tomas , Veide Andres , Enfors Sven‐Olof
Published: October 2023

Complex‐formation between a truncated staphylococcal Protein A produced in Escherichia coli and a native E. coli molecular chaperone, DnaK, can be used for the purification of DnaK by IgG‐affinity chromatography. The half‐time constant for in vitro formation of the Protein AŐDnaK complex is about 14 min. Complex‐formation in the presence of ATP is faster, but pre‐incubation of DnaK with ATP decreases the final amount of the complex. A second complex with a slower migration on native PAGE is formed when the ratio of DnaK to Protein A is increased. A derivative of Protein A, ZZ, which essentially contains only two modified domains of Protein A, did not bind DnaK. After insertion of a tryptophan‐rich peptide close to the C‐terminus, the resulting protein, ZZT3, became able to bind DnaK. The binding of these three proteins to DnaK correlates with proteolysis in E. coli, indicating a possible role for the binding of DnaK in the control of proteolysis.