bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Cyp51 protein sequences shows 4 major Cyp51 gene family groups across fungi
Authors: Celia-Sanchez Brandi N , Mangum Brandon , Brewer Marin , Momany Michelle
Published: September 2022

Azole drugs target fungal sterol biosynthesis and are used to treat millions of human fungal infections each year. Resistance to azole drugs has emerged in multiple fungal pathogens including Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Histoplasma capsulatum, and Aspergillus fumigatus. The most well-studied resistance mechanism in A. fumigatus arises from missense mutations in the coding sequence combined with a tandem repeat in the promoter of cyp51A, which encodes a cytochrome P450 enzyme in the fungal sterol biosynthesis pathway. Filamentous members of Ascomycota such as A. fumigatus have either 1 or 2 of 3 Cyp51 paralogs (Cyp51A, Cyp51B, and Cyp51C). Most previous research in A. fumigatus has focused on Cyp51A due to its role in azole resistance. We used the A. fumigatus Cyp51A protein sequence as the query in database searches to identify Cyp51 proteins across fungi. We found 435 Cyp51 proteins in 295 species spanning from early-diverging fungi (Blastocladiomycota, Chytridiomycota, Zoopagomycota, and Mucormycota) to late-diverging fungi (Ascomycota and Basidiomycota). We found these sequences formed 4 major Cyp51 groups: Cyp51, Cyp51A, Cyp51B, and Cyp51C. Surprisingly, we found all filamentous Ascomycota had a Cyp51B paralog, while only 50% had a Cyp51A paralog. We created maximum likelihood trees to investigate the evolution of Cyp51 in fungi. Our results suggest Cyp51 is present in all fungi with 3 paralogs emerging in Pezizomycotina, including Cyp51C which appears to have diverged from the progenitor of the Cyp51A and Cyp51B groups.
The transcriptional coactivator CmMBF1c is required for waterlogging tolerance in Chrysanthemum morifolium
Authors: Zhao Nan , Li Chuanwei , Yan Yajun , Wang Haibin , Wang Likai , Jiang Jiafu , Chen Sumei , Chen Fadi
Published: September 2022

Waterlogging is one of the most serious abiotic stressors affecting Chrysanthemum morifolium during its lifespan. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the waterlogging tolerance of chrysanthemum remain unclear. In this study, we discovered that the transcriptional coactivator MULTIPROTEIN BRIDGING FACTOR 1c (CmMBF1c) was significantly induced by waterlogging stress in chrysanthemums. Promoter sequence analysis and transient dual-luciferase assay using chrysanthemum protoplasts showed that the waterlogging-tolerant cultivar ‘Nannongxuefeng’ carried more response elements involved in waterlogging and hypoxia stress compared with the waterlogging-sensitive cultivar ‘Qinglu’, conferring on ‘Nannongxuefeng’ a stronger hypoxia responsive activity and higher CmMBF1c expression under waterlogging conditions. Subcellular localization and transcriptional activity assays showed that CmMBF1c protein was localized to the nucleus and had no transcriptional activation activity. Overexpression of CmMBF1c in ‘Qinglu’ enhanced its waterlogging tolerance by promoting its reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging ability and maintaining low ROS levels. However, RNAi-mediated knockdown of CmMBF1c in cultivar ‘Nannongxuefeng’ resulted in the opposite tendency. Yeast two-hybrid screening and tobacco bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays revealed that CmHRE2, a pivotal regulator of hypoxia response, could interact with CmMBF1c. In summary, this study demonstrates that CmMBF1c improves chrysanthemum waterlogging tolerance by regulating its ROS signaling pathway and interacting with CmHRE2. These findings together offer, to our knowledge, new mechanistic insights into chrysanthemum waterlogging tolerance and provide a rational foundation for future research on the genetic improvement of horticultural crops for waterlogging stress tolerance.
Chromosome-level genome assembly and resequencing of camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) provides insight into phylogeny and diversification of terpenoid and triglyceride biosynthesis of Cinnamomum
Authors: Wang Xin-Dong , Xu Chun-Yan , Zheng Yong-Jie , Wu Yan-Fang , Zhang Yue-Ting , Zhang Ting , Xiong Zhen-Yu , Yang Hai-Kuan , Li Jiang , Fu Chao , Qiu Feng-Ying , Dai Xiao-Ying , Liu Xin-Liang , He Xiao-San , Zhou Song-Song , Li Sheng-Xing , Fu Tao , Xie Han , Chen Yan-Ling , Zhang Qian-Qian , Wang Hong-Qi , Wang Yang-Dong , Zhou Cheng , Jiang Xiang-Mei
Published: September 2022

Cinnamomum species attract attentions owing to their scents, medicinal properties, and ambiguous relationship in the phylogenetic tree. Here, we report a high-quality genome assembly of Cinnamomum camphora, based on which two whole-genome duplication (WGD) events were detected in the C. camphora genome: one was shared with Magnoliales, and the other was unique to Lauraceae. Phylogenetic analyses illustrated that Lauraceae species formed a compact sister clade to the eudicots. We then performed whole-genome resequencing on 24 Cinnamomum species native to China, and the results showed that the topology of Cinnamomum species was not entirely consistent with morphological classification. The rise and molecular basis of chemodiversity in Cinnamomum were also fascinating issues. In this study, six chemotypes were classified and six main terpenoids were identified as major contributors of chemodiversity in C. camphora by the principal component analysis. Through in vitro assays and subcellular localization analyses, we identified two key terpene synthase (TPS) genes (CcTPS16 and CcTPS54), the products of which were characterized to catalyze the biosynthesis of two uppermost volatiles (i.e. 1,8-cineole and (iso)nerolidol), respectively, and meditate the generation of two chemotypes by transcriptional regulation and compartmentalization. Additionally, the pathway of medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) biosynthesis in Lauraceae was investigated for the first time. Synteny analysis suggested that the divergent synthesis of MCT and long-chain triglyceride (LCT) in Lauraceae kernels was probably controlled by specific medium-chain fatty acyl-ACP thioesterase (FatB), type-B lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferase (type-B LPAAT), and diacylglycerol acyltransferase 2b (DGAT 2b) isoforms during co-evolution with retentions or deletions in the genome.
An approach for multi-patch surface modification with a curve constraint satisfying convergentG1 continuity
Authors: Luong Quang-Phap , Nam Jong-Ho , Le Tat-Hien
Published: September 2022

Conceptual shape design plays a critical role in determining the appearance and functionality of a product. Currently, computer-aided design systems can represent a complex shape through multiple surface patches; however, the methods used for multi-patch surface modification are still limited and counterintuitive. There is an ongoing need for more intuitive and efficient surface modification tools that allow designers to directly control shape changes through specific constraints while maintaining surface quality. In this paper, we propose an intuitive modification approach based on the designer’s activity to interactively manipulate a multi-patch surface with an arbitrary curve constraint with tangent continuity (G1) across connected B-spline patches. The advantages of the curve and surface superposition were used to change the shape of the surface. The first step was a shape-control mechanism that used shape functions to control the deformation of a superposed surface. A fine-tuning step was followed to ensure the aesthetic requirements and quality of the surface by achieving convergent G1 continuity in a linear manner. The efficiency and practicality of the proposed approach have been verified using application examples. The proposed approach can be applied to modify surfaces used in the design of a complex geometric model.
Structural design with dynamic constraints using weighted chaos game optimization
Authors: Goodarzimehr Vahid , Talatahari Siamak , Shojaee Saeed , Hamzehei-Javaran Saleh , Sareh Pooya
Published: September 2022

The chaos game optimization (CGO) algorithm is a recently developed metaheuristic inspired by chaos theory and fractal configurations. In CGO, possible optimal solutions are defined as seeds and the searching process is performed using some simple equations. In this paper, weighted chaos game optimization (WCGO) is proposed and implemented to optimize engineering structures with dynamic constraints. In this method, an inertia weight coefficient based on the minimum and maximum values ​​of the objective function is introduced to create a better balance between exploration and exploitation during the searching process. By applying the inertia weight coefficient to the seeds, their positions can be controlled accurately. To evaluate the performance of WCGO, a wide range of mathematical benchmark functions, as well as several structural design optimization problems under dynamic constraints, are computationally investigated using the new algorithm. In order to demonstrate the efficiency and robustness of WCGO, its results have been compared with those obtained by some conventional methods from the literature. Additionally, a Friedman rank test is conducted to perform a statistical study on the performance of the considered algorithms. The findings indicate that WCGO performs better than its rivals in solving these structural optimization problems with dynamic constraints.
The incidental finding of xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis: a report of 10 cases
Authors: Alotaibi Abdulrahman Muaod , Almasoudi Eid , Ahmed Hassan , Alzwaihiri Abubakr
Published: September 2022

There is insufficient clinical knowledge about xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis (XGC) due to biased reporting. This study aims to investigate the incidence of XGC and evaluate the clinical outcome regarding operative time, rate of conversion and intraoperative or postoperative complications. We included 1141 patients who underwent surgery for gallbladder disease between January 2019 and December 2021. Of 1141 patients who underwent cholecystectomy, XGC was seen in 10 (0.87%). The average age is 47 (24–81 years old) with a male to female ratio of 3:2. Biliary pancreatitis and obstructive jaundice are seen in two patients who did ERCP and stenting before surgery. One patient presented with a 4 cm necrotizing soft-tissue granuloma. The BMI was high, with class I obesity in five patients. Symptoms last from 1 to 12 weeks. One patient was only diagnosed preoperatively as XGC. Four out of 10 (40%) required more than 72 h of hospitalization. All patients underwent elective sitting surgery, with eight successfully managed by laparoscopy and one converted to open. The average operative time was 90 min (43–193 min), and a postoperative drain was inserted in four patients. The median follow-up is after 24 months (11–30 months), with no postoperative collection, bleeding, complication or readmission. XGC is a rare benign entity requiring no further action upon incidental discovery. Surgical resection is the cornerstone of management, with the laparoscopic approach considered feasible and safe. Four out of 10 patients might need more than 3 days of hospitalization. In the presence of mass, the frozen section can help guide the management.
Jet from the enigmatic high-latitude star BP Psc and evolutionary status of its driving source
Authors: Potravnov Ilya S , Khovritchev M Yu , Artemenko S A , Shakhovskoy D N
Published: September 2022

BP Psc is an active late-type (sp:G9) star with unclear evolutionary status lying at high-galactic latitude b = −57°. It is also the source of the well collimated bipolar jet. We present results of the proper motion and radial velocity study of BP Psc outflow based on the archival Hα imaging with the GMOS camera at 8.1-m Gemini-North telescope as well as recent imaging and long-slit spectroscopy with the SCORPIO multimode focal reducer at 6-m BTA telescope of SAO RAS. The 3D kinematics of the jet revealed the full spatial velocity up to ∼140 km s−1 and allows us to estimate the distance to BP Psc system as D = 135 ± 40 pc. This distance leads to an estimation of the central source luminosity L* ≈ 1.2 L⊙, indicating that it is the ≈1.3M⊙ T Tauri star with an age t ≲ 7 Myrs. We measured the electron density of order Ne ∼ 102 cm−3 and mean ionization fraction f ≈ 0.04 within the jet knots and estimated upper limit of the mass-loss rate in NE lobe as $\dot{M}_{\rm out}\approx 1.2\cdot 10^{-8}{\rm M}_{\odot }\,{\rm yr}^{-1}$. The physical characteristics of the outflow are typical for the low-excitation YSO jets and consistent with the magnetocentrifugal mechanism of its launching and collimation. Prominent wiggling pattern revealed in Hα images allowed us to suppose the existence of a secondary substellar companion in a non-coplanar orbit and estimate its most plausible mass as Mp ≈ 30MJup. We conclude that BP Psc is one of the closest to the Sun young jet-driving systems and its origin is possibly related to the episode of star formation triggered by expanding supershells in second Galactic quadrant.
Searching for the next Galactic Luminous red nova
Authors: Addison Harry , Blagorodnova Nadejda , Groot Paul J , Erasmus Nicolas , Jones David , Mogawana Orapeleng
Published: September 2022

Luminous red novae (LRNe) are astrophysical transients believed to be caused by the partial ejection of a binary star’s common envelope (CE) and the merger of its components. The formation of the CE is likely to occur during unstable mass transfer, initiated by a primary star which is evolving off the main sequence (a Hertzsprung gap star) and a lower mass companion. In agreement with observations, theoretical studies have shown that outflows from the pre-CE phase produce a detectable brightening of the progenitor system a few years before the ejection event. Based on these assumptions, we present a method to identify Galactic LRNe precursors, the resulting precursor candidates, and our follow-up analysis to uncover their nature. We begin by constructing a sample of progenitor systems, i.e. Hertzsprung gap stars, by statistically modelling the density of a colour magnitude diagram formed from ‘well behaved’ Gaia DR2 sources. Their time-domain evolution from the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) survey is used to search for slowly brightening events, as pre-CE precursor candidates. The nature of the resulting candidates is further investigated using archival data and our own spectroscopic follow-up. Overall, we constructed a sample of ∼5.4 × 104 progenitor sources, from which 21 were identified as candidate LRNe precursors. Further analysis revealed 16 of our candidates to be Hα emitters, with their spectra often suggesting hotter (albeit moderately extincted) A-type or B-type stars. Because of their long-term variability in optical and mid-infrared wavelengths, we propose that many of our candidates are mass-transferring binaries with compact companions surrounded by dusty circumstellar discs or alternatively magnetically active stellar merger remnants.
Timing analysis of a sample of five cataclysmic variable candidates observed by the XMM–Newton satellite
Authors: Nucita A A , Lezzi S M , De Paolis F , Strafella F , Licchelli D , Franco A , Maiorano M
Published: September 2022

Intermediate polars are a class of cataclysmic variables in which a white dwarf accretes material from a companion star. The intermediate polar nature confirmation usually derives from the detection of two periods in both X-ray and optical photometry. In this respect, the high-energy signal is often characterized by modulations on the white dwarf spin and the orbital period. However, noting that the periodograms may be characterized by strong features also at the synodic period and/or other sidebands, the timing analysis of the X-ray signal may offer the unique possibility to firmly discover an intermediate polar candidate. Here, we concentrate on a sample of five cataclysmic variable binary candidates: i.e. SAXJ1748.2-2808, 1RXS J211336.1 + 542226, CXOGC J174622.7-285218, CXOGC J174517.4-290650, and V381 Vel, listed in the IPHome catalogue. Our main aim is to confirm if they belong to the intermediate polar class or not. The results of our analysis show that we can safely assess the intermediate polar nature of all the considered sources, apart for the case of V381 Vel which instead behaves like a cataclysmic variable of the polar subclass. Moreover, the source SAXJ1748.2-2808, previously classified as an HMXB, appears to be, most likely, an intermediate polar variable.
The essential character of the neutrino mechanism of core-collapse supernova explosions
Authors: Wang Tianshu , Vartanyan David , Burrows Adam , Coleman Matthew S B
Published: September 2022

Calibrating with detailed 2D core-collapse supernova (CCSN) simulations, we derive a simple CCSN explosion condition based solely upon the terminal density profiles of state-of-the-art stellar evolution calculations of the progenitor massive stars. This condition captures the vast majority of the behaviour of the one hundred 2D state-of-the-art models we performed to gauge its usefulness. The goal is to predict, without resort to detailed simulation, the explodability of a given massive star. We find that the simple maximum fractional ram pressure jump discriminant we define works well ∼90 per cent of the time and we speculate on the origin of the few false positives and false negatives we witness. The maximum ram pressure jump generally occurs at the time of accretion of the silicon/oxygen interface, but not always. Our results depend upon the fidelity with which the current implementation of our code F ornax adheres to Nature and issues concerning the neutrino–matter interaction, the nuclear equation of state, the possible effects of neutrino oscillations, grid resolution, the possible role of rotation and magnetic fields, and the accuracy of the numerical algorithms employed remain to be resolved. Nevertheless, the explodability condition we obtain is simple to implement, shows promise that it might be further generalized while still employing data from only the unstable Chandrasekhar progenitors, and is a more credible and robust simple explosion predictor than can currently be found in the literature.
Comparative single-cell transcriptomes of dose and time dependent epithelial–mesenchymal spectrums
Authors: Panchy Nicholas , Watanabe Kazuhide , Takahashi Masataka , Willems Andrew , Hong Tian
Published: September 2022

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a cellular process involved in development and disease progression. Intermediate EMT states were observed in tumors and fibrotic tissues, but previous in vitro studies focused on time-dependent responses with single doses of signals; it was unclear whether single-cell transcriptomes support stable intermediates observed in diseases. Here, we performed single-cell RNA-sequencing with human mammary epithelial cells treated with multiple doses of TGF-β. We found that dose-dependent EMT harbors multiple intermediate states at nearly steady state. Comparisons of dose- and time-dependent EMT transcriptomes revealed that the dose-dependent data enable higher sensitivity to detect genes associated with EMT. We identified cell clusters unique to time-dependent EMT, reflecting cells en route to stable states. Combining dose- and time-dependent cell clusters gave rise to accurate prognosis for cancer patients. Our transcriptomic data and analyses uncover a stable EMT continuum at the single-cell resolution, and complementary information of two types of single-cell experiments.
Hepatitis C Virus Coinfection in People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Iran: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Razavi-Amoli Seyedeh-Kiana , Alipour Abbas
Published: September 2022

Background

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection is associated with higher mortality and morbidity in people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH).

Methods

We aimed to characterize the epidemiology and factors associated with HCV coinfection among PWH in Iran. In this systematic review, we searched 3 English databases (MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Embase) and 2 Farsi databases (Scientific Information Database and Magiran) for studies that measured the prevalence of HCV coinfection among PWH, published between 2000 and January 1, 2021. We included studies with a minimum sample size of 5 PWH. Reviews, editorials, conference abstracts, theses, studies with no relevant data, and unclear serological assays were excluded.

Results

We summarized the HCV coinfection prevalence by random-effect meta-analysis and assessed the sources of heterogeneity by a meta-regression model. Of the 858 records identified, 69 eligible studies with 12 996 PWH were included. Overall, HCV coinfection prevalence was 64% (95% confidence interval [CI], 58–69). The prevalence was higher among older (mean age ≥35 years) PWH (69%; 95% CI, 64–74) and PWH who inject drugs (77%; 95% CI, 71–82). Furthermore, we found that coinfection was higher among studies conducted between 2000 and 2014 (67%; 95% CI, 59–75) versus 2015–2020 (57%; 95% CI, 50–64).

Conclusions

The prevalence of HCV coinfection is high in Iranian PWH, with significant geographical variations. Hepatitis C virus screening and treatment among PWH are warranted to avoid the future burden of HCV-related liver damage, cancer, and mortality.
Sleep duration, plasma metabolites, and obesity and diabetes: a metabolome-wide association study in US women
Authors: Fritz Josef , Huang Tianyi , Depner Christopher M , Zeleznik Oana A , Cespedes Feliciano Elizabeth M , Li Wenjun , Stone Katie L , Manson JoAnn E , Clish Clary , Sofer Tamar , Schernhammer Eva , Rexrode Kathryn , Redline Susan , Wright Kenneth P , Vetter Céline
Published: September 2022

Short and long sleep duration are associated with adverse metabolic outcomes, such as obesity and diabetes. We evaluated cross-sectional differences in metabolite levels between women with self-reported habitual short (<7 h), medium (7–8 h), and long (≥9 h) sleep duration to delineate potential underlying biological mechanisms. In total, 210 metabolites were measured via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in 9207 women from the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS; N = 5027), the NHSII (N = 2368), and the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI; N = 2287). Twenty metabolites were consistently (i.e. praw < .05 in ≥2 cohorts) and/or strongly (pFDR < .05 in at least one cohort) associated with short sleep duration after multi-variable adjustment. Specifically, levels of two lysophosphatidylethanolamines, four lysophosphatidylcholines, hydroxyproline and phenylacetylglutamine were higher compared to medium sleep duration, while levels of one diacylglycerol and eleven triacylglycerols (TAGs; all with ≥3 double bonds) were lower. Moreover, enrichment analysis assessing associations of metabolites with short sleep based on biological categories demonstrated significantly increased acylcarnitine levels for short sleep. A metabolite score for short sleep duration based on 12 LASSO-regression selected metabolites was not significantly associated with prevalent and incident obesity and diabetes. Associations of single metabolites with long sleep duration were less robust. However, enrichment analysis demonstrated significant enrichment scores for four lipid classes, all of which (most markedly TAGs) were of opposite sign than the scores for short sleep. Habitual short sleep exhibits a signature on the human plasma metabolome which is different from medium and long sleep. However, we could not detect a direct link of this signature with obesity and diabetes risk.
Hour-to-hour variability of respiratory sleep indices and ambulatory blood pressure
Authors: Seah Shawn Jing-Sheng , Chiu Shi Ting , Thant As Tar , Chan Siew Pang , Ou Yi-Hui , Teo Yao Hao , Wong Serene , Koo Chieh-Yang , Barbé Ferran , Lee Chi-Hang
Published: September 2022

Study Objectives

Respiratory sleep indices are traditionally reported on the basis of the average total sleep time. The relationship between the hour-to-hour variability of these parameters and blood pressure (BP) has not been reported.

Methods

We evaluated the associations of the hour-to-hour variability of the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI), oxygen desaturation index (ODI), and lowest oxygen saturation with the 24-h ambulatory BP in patients with hypertension and newly diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea. A total of 147 patients underwent polysomnography, based on which obstructive sleep apnea was diagnosed in 106 patients; these patients underwent 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring within the next 30 days. Each polysomnogram was divided into hourly reports to calculate the variability of the respiratory sleep indices. Variability independent of the mean was considered the primary measure of variability.

Results

The median number of hourly polysomnogram reports was 7 (range, 4–8). The hour-to-hour variability of both AHI and ODI, but not of the lowest oxygen saturation, was correlated with the 24-h pulse pressure, 24-h systolic BP, and awake systolic BP (p < 0.05 for all). The fully adjusted linear regression analysis indicated that the hour-to-hour variability of AHI and ODI remained associated with the 24-h pulse pressure (AHI: β coefficient, 0.264 [95% CI = 0.033–0.495], p = 0.026; ODI: β coefficient, 0.450 [95% CI = 0.174–0.726], p = 0.002).

Conclusions

The hour-to-hour variability of AHI and ODI is independently associated with the 24-h pulse pressure. Further investigations are warranted to evaluate the clinical relevance of this new-found association.
Acute sleep deprivation induces synaptic remodeling at the soleus muscle neuromuscular junction in rats
Authors: Sharma Binney , Roy Avishek , Sengupta Trina , Vishwakarma Lal Chandra , Singh Anuraag , Netam Ritesh , Nag Tapas Chandra , Akhtar Nasreen , Mallick Hruda Nanda
Published: September 2022

Sleep is important for cognitive and physical performance. Sleep deprivation not only affects neural functions but also results in muscular fatigue. A good night’s sleep reverses these functional derangements caused by sleep deprivation. The role of sleep in brain function has been extensively studied. However, its role in neuromuscular junction (NMJ) or skeletal muscle morphology is sparsely addressed although skeletal muscle atonia and suspended thermoregulation during rapid eye movement sleep possibly provide a conducive environment for the muscle to rest and repair; somewhat similar to slow-wave sleep for synaptic downscaling. In the present study, we have investigated the effect of 24 h sleep deprivation on the NMJ morphology and neurochemistry using electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry in the rat soleus muscle. Acute sleep deprivation altered synaptic ultra-structure viz. mitochondria, synaptic vesicle, synaptic proteins, basal lamina, and junctional folds needed for neuromuscular transmission. Further acute sleep deprivation showed the depletion of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and the overactivity of its degrading enzyme acetylcholine esterase at the NMJ. The impact of sleep deprivation on synaptic homeostasis in the brain has been extensively reported recently. The present evidence from our studies shows new information on the role of sleep on the NMJ homeostasis and its functioning.
Collagen characteristics affect the texture of pork Longissimus and Biceps femoris
Authors: Li Xiying , Ha Minh , Warner Robyn D , Dunshea Frank R
Published: September 2022

Connective tissue is considered to influence the toughness of pork, but most studies on connective tissue focus on the loin muscle. Cooking loss, Warner–Bratzler shear force (WBSF), texture profile analysis (hardness, springiness, chewiness, resilience, and cohesiveness), total and insoluble collagen content, the percentage of type III collagen relative to the total of type I and III collagen, proteoglycan content and intramuscular fat (IMF) content were measured for pork Biceps femoris (BF) and Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) and Pearson’s correlation was performed. The results showed that BF had higher WBSF, resilience, total, and insoluble collagen content than LTL (P < 0.05). When considering both muscles, total and insoluble collagen content were positively correlated (P < 0.05) with WBSF (r = 0.47 and 0.49, respectively), hardness (r = 0.49 and 0.50, respectively), cohesiveness (r = 0.50 and 0.50, respectively), chewiness (r = 0.58 and 0.59, respectively) and resilience (r = 0.63 and 0.63, respectively). The percentage of type III collagen content was negatively correlated (P < 0.05) with WBSF (r = −0.68) and hardness (r = −0.58). Collagen content was correlated (P < 0.05) with WBSF (r = 0.75) and hardness (r = 0.61) in LTL and with cohesiveness (r = 0.74) and resilience (r = 0.63) in BF. Collagen characteristics differ between muscles and contribute to pork texture in both LTL and BF.
Cerebral Ischemic Reperfusion Injury: Preventative and Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Gomez Francisco , El-Ghanem Mohammad , Feldstein Eric , Jagdeo Matt , Koul Prateeka , Nuoman Rolla , Gupta Gaurav , Gandhi Chirag D. , Amuluru Krishna , Al-Mufti Fawaz
Published: September 2022

Acute ischemic stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. Treatment goals remain focused on restoring blood flow to compromised areas. However, a major concern arises after reperfusion occurs. Cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury is defined as damage to otherwise salvageable brain tissue occurring with the reestablishment of the vascular supply to that region. The pool of eligible patients for revascularization continues to grow, especially with the recently expanded endovascular therapeutic window. Neurointensivists should understand and manage complications of successful recanalization. In this review, we examine the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and potential management strategies in cerebral ischemic reperfusion injury.
Soft Tissue Dermal Filler–Associated Necrosis and Impending Necrosis: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Rentfro Kathryn , Clarey Dillon , Glenn Emily J. , Sulewski Ronald , Wysong Ashley
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Cosmetic soft tissue fillers are a popular minimally invasive procedure. Necrosis is a rare yet devastating complication of soft tissue fillers. To date, the relationship between soft tissue fillers and necrosis has not been fully described.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically compile published cases of soft tissue fillers resulting in necrosis and collect data regarding the injection, treatment, and outcome.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Using PRISMA protocol, a comprehensive search for soft tissue filler necrosis was performed using no time constraints, resulting in 97 articles encompassing 192 cases of soft tissue filler necrosis containing individual-level data.

RESULTS

Of the cases analyzed, 66.1% had progressed to necrosis, whereas 33.9% of patients had impending necrosis. Necrosis most commonly resulted from injection of the nasolabial fold (32.4%, n = 88). The filler material most commonly used was hyaluronic acid (71.9%, n = 138). Hyaluronidase was used most frequently as an initial treatment agent (19.1%, n = 88). Forty-three patients (22.4%) with necrosis had a prior minor procedure or surgery.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review is an extensive overview of necrosis as a complication of soft tissue fillers. It serves as a reference tool for any clinician who injects soft tissue fillers and any provider who encounters soft tissue filler necrosis.
Prognostic value of elevated cardiac and inflammatory biomarkers in patients with severe COVID-19: a single-center, retrospective study
Authors: Kumar Neeraj , Ahmad Sarfaraz , Mahto Mala , Kumar Abhyuday , Singh Prabhat K.
Published: September 2022

Background

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in India has been declared a public health emergency. Many patients with COVID-19 experience cardiac injury. Patients with COVID-19 admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with acute myocardial injury showed increased high-sensitivity troponin levels. Abnormal troponin levels may indicate myocardial injury and are commonly associated with COVID-19.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational study of 44 patients with severe COVID-19 in ICU during the second wave. The primary end point of our retrospective study was 28-day mortality, and the time of ICU admission was designated as day 0. We extracted and analyzed cardiac biomarkers, such as creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI), and various inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) level, interleukin 6 (IL-6), d-dimer, ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase, IL-6, and procalcitonin in patients with severe COVID-19 at ICU admission and 72 hours after ICU admission from our electronic medical record system.

Results

The best cutoff of BNP were 326.8 and 398.5 pg/mL, CK were 195.95 and 180.12 U/L, CK-MB were 112.10 and 108.5 U/L, and hs-cTnI were 0.035 and 0.025 ng/mL, at ICU admission and 72 hours after ICU admission for predicting 28-day mortality among nonsurvivors.

Conclusion

In patients with severe COVID-19, CK and hs-cTnI may be considered effective and valuable predictive cardiac biomarkers among nonsurvivors and predict poor prognosis.
18F-FDG Muscular Uptake in Statin-Associated Symptoms Without Myositis
Authors: Metrard Gilles , Besse Helene , Callaud Aurelien , Thibault Frederique , Bailly Matthieu
Published: September 2022

Statin-associated muscle symptoms are a frequent adverse effect of statin treatment and can lead to a statin-associated myopathy characterized by a significant serum creatine kinase increase. We report the case of an 80-year-old man who presented an increased muscular 18F-FDG uptake in a statin-associated muscle symptom without creatine kinase abnormality or inflammation. Statin treatment was discontinued for 6 hours, 3 days, and 7 days on consecutive follow-up examinations. The 1-week window clearly enhanced image quality. This case illustrates the possibility of diffuse muscular 18F-FDG uptake without myositis and the need for a minimal 1-week statin discontinuation to reduce muscular uptake.
Intersection of Race, Ethnicity, and Sex in New Functional Limitations after Injury: Black and Hispanic Female Survivors at Greater Risk
Authors: Orlas Claudia P , Rentas Courtney , Hau Kaman , Ortega Gezzer , Sanchez Sabrina E , Kaafarani Haytham MA , Salim Ali , Herrera-Escobar Juan P
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND:

The impact of disparities at the intersection of multiple marginalized social identities is poorly understood in trauma. We sought to evaluate the joint effect of race, ethnicity, and sex on new functional limitations 6 to 12 months postinjury.

STUDY DESIGN:

Moderately to severely injured patients admitted to one of three Level I trauma centers were asked to complete a phone-based survey assessing functional outcomes 6 to 12 months postinjury. Multivariate adjusted regression analyses were used to compare functional limitations by race and ethnicity alone, sex alone, and the interaction between both race and ethnicity and sex. The joint disparity and its composition were calculated across race and sex strata.

RESULTS:

Included were 4,020 patients: 1,621 (40.3%) non-Hispanic White male patients, 1,566 (39%) non-Hispanic White female patients, 570 (14.2%) Black or Hispanic/Latinx male patients, and 263 (6.5%) Black or Hispanic/Latinx female patients (BHF). The risk-adjusted incidence of functional limitations was highest among BHF (50.6%) vs non-Hispanic White female patients (39.2%), non-Hispanic White male patients (35.8%), and Black or Hispanic male patients (34.6%; p < 0.001). In adjusted analysis, women (odds ratio 1.35 [95% CI 1.16 to 1.57]; p < 0.001) and Blacks or Hispanic patients (odds ratio 1.28 [95% CI 1.03 to 1.58]; p = 0.02) were more likely to have new functional limitations 6 to 12 months postinjury. When sex and race were analyzed together, BHF were more likely to have new functional limitations compared with non-Hispanic White male patients (odds ratio 2.12 [1.55 to 2.90]; p < 0.001), with 63.5% of this joint disparity being explained by the intersection of race and ethnicity and sex.

CONCLUSION:

More than half of the race and sex disparity in functional limitations experienced by BHF is explained by the unique experience of being both minority and a woman. Intermediate modifiable factors contributing to this intersectional disparity must be identified.
Exploring the mobilome and resistome of Enterococcus faecium in a One Health context across two continents
Authors: Sanderson Haley , Gray Kristen L. , Manuele Alexander , Maguire Finlay , Khan Amjad , Liu Chaoyue , Navanekere Rudrappa Chandana , Nash John H. E. , Robertson James , Bessonov Kyrylo , Oloni Martins , Alcock Brian P. , Raphenya Amogelang R. , McAllister Tim A. , Peacock Sharon J. , Raven Kathy E. , Gouliouris Theodore , McArthur Andrew G. , Brinkman Fiona S. L. , Fink Ryan C. , Zaheer Rahat , Beiko Robert G.
Published: September 2022

Enterococcus faecium

is a ubiquitous opportunistic pathogen that is exhibiting increasing levels of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Many of the genes that confer resistance and pathogenic functions are localized on mobile genetic elements (MGEs), which facilitate their transfer between lineages. Here, features including resistance determinants, virulence factors and MGEs were profiled in a set of 1273

E. faecium

genomes from two disparate geographic locations (in the UK and Canada) from a range of agricultural, clinical and associated habitats. Neither lineages of

E. faecium

, type A and B, nor MGEs are constrained by geographic proximity, but our results show evidence of a strong association of many profiled genes and MGEs with habitat. Many features were associated with a group of clinical and municipal wastewater genomes that are likely forming a new human-associated ecotype within type A. The evolutionary dynamics of

E. faecium

make it a highly versatile emerging pathogen, and its ability to acquire, transmit and lose features presents a high risk for the emergence of new pathogenic variants and novel resistance combinations. This study provides a workflow for MGE-centric surveillance of AMR in

Enterococcus

that can be adapted to other pathogens.
Internal and external factors affecting vaccination coverage: modeling the interactions between vaccine hesitancy, accessibility, and mandates
Authors: Anderson Kerri-Ann , Creanza Nicole
Published: September 2022

Society, culture, and individual motivations affect human decisions regarding their health behaviors and preventative care, and health-related perceptions and behaviors can change at the population level as cultures evolve. An increase in vaccine hesitancy, an individual mindset informed within a cultural context, has resulted in a decrease in vaccination coverage and an increase in vaccine-preventable disease (VPD) outbreaks, particularly in developed countries where vaccination rates are generally high. Understanding local vaccination cultures, which evolve through an interaction between beliefs and behaviors and are influenced by the broader cultural landscape, is critical to fostering public health. Vaccine mandates and vaccine inaccessibility are two external factors that interact with individual beliefs to affect vaccine-related behaviors. To better understand the population dynamics of vaccine hesitancy, it is important to study how these external factors could shape a population’s vaccination decisions and affect the broader health culture. Using a mathematical model of cultural evolution, we explore the effects of vaccine mandates, vaccine inaccessibility, and varying cultural selection trajectories on a population’s level of vaccine hesitancy and vaccination behavior. We show that vaccine mandates can lead to a phenomenon in which high vaccine hesitancy co-occurs with high vaccination coverage, and that high vaccine confidence can be maintained even in areas where access to vaccines is limited.
The dimerized pentraxin-like domain of the adhesion G protein-coupled receptor 112 (ADGRG4) suggests function in sensing mechanical forces
Authors: Kieslich Björn , Brendler Jana , Ricken Albert , Schöneberg Torsten , Sträter Norbert
Published: September 2022

Adhesion G protein-coupled receptors (aGPCRs) feature large extracellular regions (ECRs) with modular domains that often resemble protein classes of various function. The pentraxin (PTX) domain, which is predicted by sequence homology within the ECR of four different aGPCR members, is well known to form pentamers and other oligomers. Oligomerization of GPCRs is frequently reported and mainly driven by interactions of the seven-transmembrane region and N- or C-termini. While the functional importance of dimers is well-established for some class C GPCRs, relatively little is known about aGPCR multimerization. Here, we showcase the example of ADGRG4, an orphan aGPCR that possesses a PTX-like domain at its very N-terminal tip, followed by an extremely long stalk containing serine-threonine repeats. Using x-ray crystallography and biophysical methods we determined the structure of this unusual PTX-like domain and provide experimental evidence for a homodimer equilibrium of this domain which is Ca2+-independent and driven by intermolecular contacts that differ vastly from the known soluble PTXs. The formation of this dimer seems to be conserved in mammalian ADGRG4 indicating functional relevance. Our data alongside of theoretical considerations lead to the hypothesis that ADGRG4 acts as an in vivo sensor for shear forces in enterochromaffin and Paneth cells of the small intestine.
A Computational Approach Reveals the Ability of Amyloids to Sequester RNA: the Alpha Synuclein Case
Authors: Rupert Jakob , Monti Michele , Zacco Elsa , Tartaglia Gian Gaetano
Published: September 2022

Nucleic acids can act as potent modulators of protein aggregation, and RNA is able to either hinder or facilitate protein assembly depending on the molecular context. Here we used a computational approach to characterize the physico-chemical properties of regions involved in amyloid aggregation. In different experimental datasets we observed that, while the core is hydrophobic and highly ordered, external regions, more disordered, display a distinct tendency to interact with nucleic acids.

To validate our predictions, we performed aggregation assays with α-synuclein (aS140), a non-nucleic acid binding amyloidogenic protein, and a mutant truncated at the acidic C-terminus (aS103) that is predicted to sequester RNA. For both aS140 and aS103 we observed acceleration of the aggregation upon RNA addition with a significantly stronger effect for aS103. Due to the favorable electrostatics, we observed enhanced nucleic-acid sequestration ability for aS103 that entrapped a larger amount of RNA.

Overall, our research suggests that RNA sequestration is a rather common phenomenon linked to protein aggregation and constitutes a gain-of-function mechanism to be further investigated.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

Our study indicates that aggregation confers RNA-binding ability to non-RNA-binding proteins such as alpha synuclein. The sequestration of RNA upon protein aggregation might alter RNA homeostasis and impact multiple biochemical cascades.
Impact of destination brand experience on destination advocacy: trust and loyalty as moderators
Authors: Srivastava Shalini , Madan Poornima , Dey Banasree , Qadir Abdul , Mathew Jones
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess impact of destination brand experience (DBE) on destination advocacy (DA) and to assess the role of trust and loyalty as moderators in the relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from a sample of 595 tourists from destinations in India. This study used structural equation modeling and moderated regression analysis to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Results confirm the impact of all four dimensions of DBE (sensory, behavioral, affective and intellectual) on DA. Furthermore, the moderating role of loyalty and trust is established.

Research limitations/implications

The study sample is drawn from only few Indian destinations. India boasts of several different types of destinations (wildlife, adventure, heritage, etc.). Future studies may do a comparative analysis of the influence of DBE dimensions across diverse destination types.

Originality/value

Although past studies have examined the association between DBE and outcomes such as visit intentions, intention to recommend a destination, there is paucity of research that explores the direct association between DBE and DA. The uniqueness of the study lies in associating loyalty and trust as moderators in the relationship of DBE and DA.
Critical success factors for the implementation of urban regeneration REITs in China: a TISM–MICMAC based approach
Authors: Xiahou Xiaer , Li Zirui , Zuo Jian , Wang Ziying , Li Kang , Li Qiming
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) have shown great potential in addressing the current contradiction between underinvestment and sustainable development of urban regeneration in China, as well as in further facilitating the transformation and upgrading of China's urban development. In this regard, this study aims to investigate critical success factors (CSFs) and explore the relationships among these factors, and serve as a reference to provide recommendations and strategies for the successful implementation and sustainable development of urban regeneration REITs.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, an integrated total interpretive structural modeling–matriced impact croises multiplication applique (TISM–MICMAC) approach using the TISM technique and MICMAC analysis is then implemented to explore the relationships among CSFs, demonstrate the hierarchical structure and classify these factors into clusters based on calculated driving powers and dependence.

Findings

This study has determined a final list of 11 CSFs through literature review and expert survey. The TISM model demonstrates a six-level hierarchical structure encompassing the influence transmission paths of CSFs, in which the most significant factors and links are established, while the MICMAC analysis further classifies CSFs into four clusters as a complement for the findings of the TISM technique.

Practical implications

This study offers practical implications for governments, individual and institutional investors, REITs and property managers, and other stakeholders concluded in urban regeneration REITs. The final list of determined CSFs can serve as the decision points for management and control of the implementation processes, while the findings of the TISM–MICMAC approach can be a significant reference to provide strategies for optimization and enhancement of urban regeneration REITs.

Originality/value

This study is a novel attempt to use both the TISM technique and MICMAC analysis to investigate CSFs for the implementation of urban regeneration REITs, and to address the theoretical and methodological research gaps in the existing literature.