bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipid Oxidation Controls Peptide Self-Assembly near Membranes
Authors: John Torsten , Piantavigna Stefania , Dealey Tiara J. A. , Abel Bernd , Risselada Herre Jelger , Martin Lisandra L.
Published: August 2022

The self-assembly of peptides into supramolecular fibril structures has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease but has also been observed in functional roles. Peptides are physiologically exposed to crowded environments of biomacromolecules, and particularly membrane lipids, within a cellular milieu. Previous research has shown that membranes can both accelerate and inhibit peptide self-assembly. Here, we studied the impact of biomimetic membranes that mimic cellular oxidative stress and compared this to mammalian and bacterial membranes. Using molecular dynamics simulations and experiments, we propose a model that explains how changes in peptide-membrane binding, electrostatics, and peptide secondary structure stabilization determine the nature of peptide self-assembly. We explored the influence of zwitterionic (POPC), anionic (POPG) and oxidized (PazePC) phospholipids, as well as cholesterol, and mixtures thereof, on the self-assembly kinetics of the amyloid β (1–40) peptide (Aβ40), linked to Alzheimer’s disease, and the amyloid-forming antimicrobial peptide uperin 3.5 (U3.5). We show that the presence of an oxidized lipid had similar effects on peptide self-assembly as the bacterial mimetic membrane. While Aβ40fibril formation was accelerated, U3.5 aggregation was inhibited by the same lipids at the same peptide-to-lipid ratio. We attribute these findings and peptide-specific effects to differences in peptide-membrane adsorption with U3.5 being more strongly bound to the membrane surface and stabilized in an α-helical conformation compared to Aβ40. Different peptide-to-lipid ratios resulted in different effects. Molecular dynamics simulations provided detailed mechanistic insights into the peptide-lipid interactions and secondary structure stability. We found that electrostatic interactions are a primary driving force for peptide-membrane interaction, enabling us to propose a model for predictions how cellular changes might impact peptide self-assemblyin vivo, and potentially impact related diseases.
Pantothenate Kinase 4 Governs Lens Epithelial Fibrosis by Negatively Regulating Pyruvate Kinase M2-Related Glycolysis
Authors: Li Xue , Luo Lin-Lin , Li Rui-Feng , Chen Chun-Lin , Sun Min , Lin Sen
Published: August 2022

Lens fibrosis is one of the leading causes of cataract in the elderly population. The primary energy substrate of the lens is glucose from the aqueous humor, and the transparency of mature lens epithelial cells (LECs) is dependent on glycolysis for ATP. Therefore, the deconstruction of reprogramming of glycolytic metabolism can contribute to further understanding of LEC epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). In the present study, we found a novel pantothenate kinase 4 (PANK4)-related glycolytic mechanism that regulates LEC EMT. The PANK4 level was correlated with aging in cataract patients and mice. Loss of function of PANK4 significantly contributed to alleviating LEC EMT by upregulating pyruvate kinase M2 isozyme (PKM2), which was phosphorylated at Y105, thus switching oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. However, PKM2 regulation did not affect PANK4, demonstrating the downstream role of PKM2. Inhibition of PKM2 inPank4−/−mice caused lens fibrosis, which supports the finding that the PANK4–PKM2 axis is required for LEC EMT. Glycolytic metabolism-governed hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) signaling is involved in PANK4–PKM2-related downstream signaling. However, HIF-1α elevation was independent of PKM2 (S37) but PKM2 (Y105) when PANK4 was deleted, which demonstrated that PKM2 and HIF-1α were not involved in a classic positive feedback loop. Collectively, these results indicate a PANK4-related glycolysis switch that may contribute to HIF-1 stabilization and PKM2 phosphorylation at Y105 and inhibit LEC EMT. The mechanism elucidation in our study may also shed light on fibrosis treatments for other organs.
Soil microbiota and herbivory drive the assembly of plant-associated microbial communities through different mechanisms
Authors: Malacrinò Antonino , Bennett Alison E.
Published: August 2022

Plant-associated microbial communities are key to shaping many aspects of plant biology. In this study, we tested whether soil microbial communities and herbivory influence the bacterial community of tomato plants and whether their influence in different plant compartments is driven by microbial spillover between compartments or whether plants are involved in mediating this effect. We grew our plants in soils hosting three different microbial communities and covered (or not) the soil surface to prevent (or allow) passive microbial spillover between compartments, and we exposed them (or not) to herbivory byManduca sexta. The results showed that the soil-driven effect on aboveground compartments was consistently detected regardless of soil coverage, whereas soil cover influenced the herbivore-driven effect on belowground microbiota. Together, our results suggest that the soil microbiota influences aboveground plant and insect microbial communities via changes in plant metabolism and physiology or by sharing microorganisms via xylem sap. In contrast, herbivores influence the belowground plant microbiota via a combination of microbial spillover and changes in plant metabolism. These results demonstrate the important role of plants in linking aboveground and belowground microbiota, and can foster further research on soil microbiota manipulation for sustainable pest management.
Prevalent regulation of GATA2/3 and MSX2 on endogenous retrovirus-derived regulatory elements in human trophoblast stem cells
Authors: Du Cui , Jiang Jing , Li Yuzhuo , Yu Miao , Jin Jian , Chen Shuai , Fan Hairui , Macfarlan Todd S. , Cao Bin , Sun Ming-an
Published: August 2022

The placenta is an organ with extraordinary phenotypic diversity in eutherian mammals. Recent evidence suggests that numerous human placental enhancers are evolved from lineage-specific insertions of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs), yet the transcription factors (TFs) underlying their regulation remain largely elusive. Here, by first focusing on MER41, a primate-specific ERV family previously linked to placenta and innate immunity, we uncover the binding motifs of multiple crucial trophoblast TFs (GATA2/3, MSX2, GRHL2) in addition to innate immunity TFs STAT1 and IRF1. Integration of ChIP-Seq data confirms the binding of GATA2/3, MSX2 and their related factors on the majority of MER41-derived enhancers in human trophoblast stem cells (TSCs). Notably, MER41-derived enhancers that are constitutively active in human TSCs are distinct from those activated upon interferon stimulation, which is determined by the binding of relevant TFs and their sub-family compositions. We further demonstrate that GATA2/3 and MSX2 have prevalent binding on numerous other ERV families – indicating their broad impact on ERV-derived enhancers. Functionally, the derepression of many syncytiotrophoblast genes after disruption of MSX2 is likely to be mediated by regulatory elements derived from ERVs – suggesting ERVs are also important for mediating transcriptional repression. Overall, this study characterized the prevalent regulation of GATA2/3, MSX2 and their co-factors on ERV-derived regulatory elements in human TSCs and provided mechanistic insights into the importance of ERVs in human trophoblast regulatory network.
Low photosynthetic rate under low light stress inhibited sucrose distribution and transportation to grain
Authors: Sun Zhichao , Geng Wenjie , Ren Baizhao , Zhao Bin , Liu Peng , Zhang Jiwang
Published: August 2022

Under the condition of low light, the yield of summer maize decreased significantly, but the decrease of yield under low light stress was not only caused by the lack of photosynthetic assimilates in leaves, but also the transportation and utilization of assimilates by stems and grains. In this study, we investigated the effects of low light stress on leaves, stems and grains of summer maize and the relationship between them. The results showed that the synthesis ability of sucrose and export sucrose to grains ability in leaves decreased under low light. Due to dry matter transfer, the number and area of small vascular bundles in spike node and shank decreased, which restricted the translocation of photoassimilates to grains at filling stage. The activities of SUS and AGPase was decreased in grains under low light stress, which limited the availability of sucrose. The process of leaf synthesis, sucrose loading and sucrose utilization in grains was affected under low light, resulting in relatively higher sucrose concentration in grains than in leaves, forming a “leaf low” - “grain high” sugar concentration gradient, resulting in the opposite hydrostatic pressure, and then feedback inhibition of sucrose output in leaves, reducing sucrose loading and transportation rate.

Hightlight

The key factor of low light stress reducing summer maize yield was the decrease of leaf photosynthetic rate, resulting in insufficient grain dry matter supply. The sugar concentration gradient between leaves and grains further restricted the sucrose transport from leaves to grains.
A universal influenza mRNA vaccine candidate boosts T-cell responses and reduces zoonotic influenza virus disease in ferrets
Authors: van de Ven Koen , Lanfermeijer Josien , van Dijken Harry , Muramatsu Hiromi , de Melo Caroline Vilas Boas , Lenz Stefanie , Peters Florence , Beattie Mitchell B , Lin Paulo J C , Ferreira José A. , van den Brand Judith , van Baarle Debbie , Pardi Norbert , de Jonge Jørgen
Published: August 2022

Universal influenza vaccines have the potential to protect against continuously evolving and newly emerging influenza viruses. T cells may be an essential target of such vaccines as they can clear infected cells through recognition of conserved influenza virus epitopes. We evaluated a novel T cell-inducing nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccine that encodes the conserved nucleoprotein, matrix protein 1 and polymerase basic protein 1 of an H1N1 influenza virus. To mimic the human situation, we applied the mRNA vaccine as a prime-boost regimen in naïve ferrets (mimicking young children) and as a booster in influenza-experienced ferrets (mimicking adults). The vaccine induced and boosted broadly-reactive T cells in the circulation, bone marrow and respiratory tract. Booster vaccination enhanced protection against heterosubtypic infection with potential pandemic H7N9 influenza virus in influenza-experienced ferrets. Our findings show that mRNA vaccines encoding internal influenza virus proteins are a promising strategy to induce broadly-protective T-cell immunity against influenza viruses.
Prevalence and Determinant of Adverse Drug Reactions Among MDR-TB Patients Attending St. Peter’s TB Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Shararo Fikru Letose , Asebe Degemu Sahlu , Teshome Hawine Teshome , Jabo Sahle Asfaw
Published: August 2022

Background

Tuberculosis is one of a major public health problem throughout the world. About 9.6 million people were estimated to have Tuberculosis in 2014. Out of this, 480 000 cases were multidrug-resistant Tuberculosis. Thus, it has to be identified, focused and prioritized for subsequent and targeted interventions. Therefore, the aim this study was to assess the prevalence and factors affecting adverse drug reaction among multidrug-resistant Tuberculosis patients.

Method

Institution based retrospective cross sectional study design was included all patients with Multi Drug Resistant who were registered and treated from 9 January 2020 to 30 March 2020. Data abstraction form was used to obtain patient information from their cards. Data were collected by trained nurses who have been working at multidrug-resistant Tuberculosis treatment service. Data were entered, cleaned and checked using Epi Data version 4.6 statistical software and analyzed by SPSS version 23. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to examine the association between independent and dependent variables. The results were presented as Odds Ratio with 95% CI.

Result

A total of 286 patients were included in the study. The prevalence of adverse drug reaction in this study were 169 (59.1%). Factors such as Treatment outcome and comorbidity were significantly associated with adverse drug reaction among multidrug-resistant Tuberculosis patients.

Conclusion and Recommendation

There was high prevalence of adverse drug reaction among multidrug-resistant Tuberculosis patients. Comorbidity and treatment outcome were the independent determinants. Patients who are identified with adverse drug events need special attention enhanced clinical management.
Structure of a volume-regulated heteromeric LRRC8A/C channel
Authors: Rutz Sonja , Deneka Dawid , Dittmann Antje , Sawicka Marta , Dutzler Raimund
Published: August 2022

Volume-regulated anion channels participate in the cellular response to osmotic swelling. These heteromeric membrane proteins consist of LRRC8 family members, where the subunit composition determines permeation properties. Although structures of the obligatory LRRC8A subunit have previously defined the architecture of VRACs, the organization of heteromeric channels has remained elusive. Here we have closed this gap by the structural characterization of channels consisting of LRRC8A and LRRC8C. Like homomeric LRRC8A, these proteins assemble as hexamers. Despite twelve possible arrangements, we find a single predominant organization with an A:C ratio of two. In this assembly, four LRRCA subunits cluster in their preferred conformation observed in homomers as pairs of closely interacting proteins that stabilize a closed state of the channel. In contrast, the two interacting LRRC8C subunits show a larger flexibility, underlining their role in the destabilization of the tightly packed A subunits, thereby enhancing the activation properties of the protein.
Disputed interpretations and active strategies of resistance during an audit regulatory debate
Authors: Harber Michael , Verhoef Grietjie , de Villiers Charl
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The paper aims to examine disputed interpretations of “key meanings” between the audit regulator and Big 4 firms during a highly contentious regulatory debate, showcasing their use of “strategies of resistance” to achieve their intended outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative analysis is performed of the discourse in a South African audit regulatory debate, set within the country's unique political and historical context. The analysis is informed by the theoretical construct of a “regulatory space” and an established typology of strategic responses to institutional pressures.

Findings

The study’s findings show how resistance to regulatory intentions from influential actors, notably the Big 4 firms, was dispelled. This was achieved by the regulator securing oversight independence, co-opting political support, shortening the debate timeline and unilaterally revising the interpretation of its statutory mandate. The regulator successfully incorporated race equality into its interpretation of how the public interest is advanced (in addition to audit quality). The social legitimacy of the Big 4 was then further undermined. The debate was highly contentious and unproductive and likely contributed to overall societal concerns regarding the legitimacy of, and the value ascribed to, the audit function.

Practical implications

A deeper appreciation of vested interests and differing interpretations of key concepts and regulatory logic could help to promote a less combative regulatory environment, in the interest of enhanced audit quality and the sustainability and legitimacy of the audit profession.

Originality/value

The context provides an example, contrary to that observed in many jurisdictions, where the Big 4 fail to actively resist or even dilute significant regulatory reform. Furthermore, the findings indicate that traditional conceptions of what it means to serve “the public interest” may be evolving in favour of a more liberal social democratic interpretation.
Dual solutions for MHD hybrid nanofluid stagnation point flow due to a radially shrinking disk with convective boundary condition
Authors: Yahaya Rusya Iryanti , Md Arifin Norihan , Pop Ioan , Md Ali Fadzilah , Mohamed Isa Siti Suzilliana Putri
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to study the stagnation point flow of Al2O3–Cu/H2O hybrid nanofluid over a radially shrinking disk with the imposition of the magnetic field, viscous-Ohmic dissipation and convective boundary condition.

Design/methodology/approach

Similarity variables are introduced and used in reducing the governing partial differential equations into a system of ordinary differential equations. A built-in bvp4c solver in MATLAB is then used in the computation of the numerical solutions for equations (7) and (8) subject to the boundary conditions (9). Then, the behavior of the flow and thermal fields of the hybrid nanofluid, with various values of controlling parameters, are analyzed.

Findings

The steady flow problem resulted in multiple (dual) solutions. A stability analysis performed to identify the stable solution applicable in practice revealed that the first solution is stable while the second solution is unstable. The skin friction coefficient and Nusselt number of the hybrid nanofluid are found to be greater than the Al2O3–H2O nanofluid. Thus, the hybrid nanofluid has a better heat transfer performance than the nanofluid. Besides that, the presence of the magnetic field, suction, convective boundary condition and the enhancement of nanoparticle volume fraction of Cu augments the skin friction coefficient and Nusselt number of the hybrid nanofluid. Meanwhile, the presence of viscous-Ohmic dissipation reduces the heat transfer performance of the fluid.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the present results are original and new for the study of the flow and heat transfer of Al2O3–Cu/H2O hybrid nanofluid past a permeable radially shrinking disk. Considerable efforts have been directed toward the study of the boundary layer flow and heat transfer over stretching/shrinking surfaces and disks because of its numerous industrial applications, such as electronic, power, manufacturing, aerospace and transportation industries. Common heat transfer fluids such as water, alumina, cuprum and engine oil have limited heat transfer capabilities due to their low heat transfer properties. In contrast, metals have higher thermal conductivities than these fluids. Therefore, it is desirable to combine the two substances to produce a heat transfer medium that behaves like a fluid but has higher heat transfer properties.
Study on the influence of carbon trading pilot policy on energy efficiency in power industry
Authors: Hu Shiqian , Li Dan , Wang Xiaodan
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To cope with climate change and achieve the dual carbon goal, China has actively promoted the implementation of carbon trading pilot policy, among which the power industry plays an important role in China’s carbon emission reduction work. The purpose of this paper is to study the influence of carbon trading policy on the energy efficiency of power industry and achieve the comprehensive goal of carbon emission reduction, carbon peak and carbon neutralization.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper constructs the difference-in-differences model based on 2012–2019 provincial data to study the impact of carbon trading policy on energy efficiency in the power industry and its effect path. Heterogeneity analysis was conducted to compare the effects of carbon trading policy in eastern, central and western regions as well as at different levels of power structures.

Findings

Carbon trading policy can significantly improve the energy efficiency of the power industry, and the policy effect is more significant in eastern and western regions and areas with high power structure. Mechanism analysis shows that carbon trading policy mainly influences the energy efficiency of power industry by environmental protection investment, power consumption demand and industrial structure.

Originality/value

This paper uses provincial panel data to deeply study the influence of carbon trading policy on energy efficiency of the power industry and its effect path. By constructing the difference-in-differences model, this paper empirically analyzes the governance effect of carbon trading policy. Meanwhile, it controls individual and time effects to solve the endogeneity problem prevalent in previous literature.
COVID lessons: was there any way to reduce the negative effect of COVID-19 on the United States economy?
Authors: Mahmoudi Mohammadreza
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the economic impact of uniform COVID-controlling policies that were implemented by the US government in 2020 and compare it with hypothetical targeted policies that consider the heterogenous effect of COVID-19 on different age groups.

Design/methodology/approach

The author began by showing that the adjusted SEQIHR model is a good fit to the US COVID-induced daily death data in that it can capture the nonlinearities of the data very well. Then, he used this model with extra parameters to evaluate the economic effects of COVID-19 through its impact on the job market.

Findings

The results show that targeted COVID-controlling policies could reduce the US death rate and GDP loss to 0.03% and 2%, respectively. By comparing these results with uniform COVID-controlling policies, which led to a 0.1% death rate and 3.5% GDP loss, we could conclude that the death rate reduction is 0.07%. Approximately 378,000 Americans died because of COVID-19 during 2020, therefore, reducing the death rate to 0.03% means saving a significant proportion of the COVID-19 casualties, around 280,000 lives.

Originality/value

To the best of the author's knowledge, this paper is the first study to assess the economic impacts of COVID-controlling policies by using the multirisk SEQIHR model.
Exploring the hot spots and global trends in Takaful research through bibliometric analysis based on Scopus database (2001-2022)
Authors: Qadri Hussain Mohi-Ud-Din , Ali Hassnian , Jafar Ahmad , Tahir Atta Ul Mustafa , Abbasi Muhammad Azhar
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Islamic Insurance (Takaful) played a dynamic role in Islamic Social Finance (ISF). The popularity of the Takaful concept is being increased with each passing day. To describe the process, it is important to understand past areas of research, research differences, areas of unknown Takaful research, as well as the existing data. However, the purpose of the paper is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the development of qualitative research by carefully examining the nature of science and aspects of social relations in ISF.

Design/methodology/approach

Field, concerns with analysing and measuring the scholarly literature, quantitative characteristics of sciences and scientific technologies are known as scient metrics. This research includes queries such as “Islamic Insurance”, “Takaful” and “Shariah Insurance” as a reference in “Article title, Abstract and Keywords” based on Scopus from 2002 to 2022. This analysis was conducted in February 2022. The Bibliometrics, R-Studio, VOSviewer and Excel software are used to analyse the collected data and apply the bibliometric analysis.

Findings

The gist of the results and findings is that there are clear research gaps in the existing literature on Takaful. The available research on this subject does cover historical background, concept and models of Takaful and customer satisfaction towards Takaful model. Very important areas such as use of technology for bringing innovation in Takaful products and Shariah issues in existing practice and their solutions were not found in the present literature on Takaful.

Originality/value

This is the comprehensive research article to examine current literature on Takaful with bibliometric analysis. Results and potential areas of this research could be much helpful for scholars and researchers to create more dynamic improvements in the scientific development of Takaful in ISF.
Bibliometric analysis and science mapping of global scientific publications on technical vocational education training (TVET)
Authors: Abd Majid Mohamad Zuber , Kasavan Saraswathy , Siron Rusinah
Published: August 2022

Purpose

While technical vocational education training (TVET) has been studied in-depth, the evolution and performance patterns of the subject remain unknown and limited. A bibliometric analysis was performed to examine the global scientific literature to assess the state of the art in TVET research over the past 23 years.

Design/methodology/approach

The Web of Science (WoS) database was searched to explore TVET-related research from 1999 to 2021, resulting in the identification of 7,512 articles. The VOSviewer software was used to investigate the network of collaboration between authors, institutions, countries and author keywords.

Findings

The results reveal that the subject categories of “education” and “educational research” are the most prolific contributors to TVET-related research, with 3,314 articles. Most of the previous studies in Phase I (1999–2006) focussed on human capital resources development in the TVET sector. Phase II (2007–2014) follows with the centralisation of TVET, focussing on technology transition in education. However, in Phase III (2015–2021), researchers appear to focus on vocational studies in higher education towards increasing the productivity of human resources via the implementation of technology transition.

Originality/value

The valuable findings of this study can facilitate better understanding among scholars on the trends of TVET research developments and on the direction of future research.
Spatial planning for restoration in Cerrado: Balancing the trade‐offs between conservation and agriculture
Authors: Schüler Jéssica , Bustamante Mercedes M. C.
Published: August 2022

The Brazilian Cerrado, the most biodiverse savanna globally with great importance for water and carbon conservation, faces the impacts of rapid and extensive land conversion, mainly for agricultural uses. The native Cerrado vegetation originally covered an area of 204 Mha however, 43% has been converted to human use. Pastures are the major land use category in Cerrado, covering 57 Mha, 28% of its area. Most of these pastures are underused and present some degree of degradation, representing an opportunity for restoration programs and agriculture expansion without further conversion of natural areas. The restoration of the Cerrado's degraded pastures is a source of recovery of ecosystem services, however, it might involve synergies and trade‐offs between ecosystem services and stakeholders.

To evaluate potential trade‐offs, we modelled seven scenarios for prioritization for restoration, focusing on pasture areas on a biome scale. We considered biodiversity, water‐related ecosystem services, potential carbon stock and agriculture aptitude to understand the trade‐offs between each feature and the conflicts with agriculture. We also applied the same prioritization logic for one Cerrado ecoregion to understand the importance of planning on a finer scale.

We identified important trade‐offs between the scenarios, especially with agriculture. The agriculture conflict scenario showed that 16 Mha of areas suitable to agriculture have also a high importance for restoration, representing a gain around 70% in ecosystem services and biodiversity. By refining the spatial scale of the prioritization process, we could also identify local conflicts and demands, which indicates the relevance of a local approach, allowing a more representative cover of the Cerrado's heterogeneity to minimize trade‐offs between different demands associated with restoration.

Policy implications. The restoration of degraded lands is an international priority to mitigate climate change as well as protect the biodiversity. Our work provides a better understanding of the trade‐offs and conflicts involved in the restoration of the Cerrado, a megadiverse savanna with great importance in agriculture. This understanding is key to implementing public policies that enable large‐scale restoration projects while optimizing biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services provision and minimizing conflicts with agriculture.
‘Omics‐guided prediction of the pathway for metabolism of isoprene by Variovorax sp. WS11
Authors: Dawson Robin A. , Rix Gregory D. , Crombie Andrew T. , Murrell J. Colin
Published: August 2022

Bacteria that inhabit soils and the leaves of trees partially mitigate the release of the abundant volatile organic compound, isoprene (2‐methyl‐1,3‐butadiene). While the initial steps of isoprene metabolism were identified in Rhodococcus sp. AD45 two decades ago, the isoprene metabolic pathway still remains largely undefined. Limited understanding of the functions of isoG, isoJ and aldH and uncertainty in the route of isoprene‐derived carbon into central metabolism have hindered our understanding of isoprene metabolism. These previously uncharacterised iso genes are essential in Variovorax sp. WS11, determined by targeted mutagenesis. Using combined ‘omics‐based approaches, we propose the complete isoprene metabolic pathway. Isoprene is converted to propionyl‐CoA, which is assimilated by the chromosomally encoded methylmalonyl‐CoA pathway, requiring biotin and vitamin B12, with the plasmid‐encoded methylcitrate pathway potentially providing robustness against limitations in these vitamins. Key components of this pathway were induced by both isoprene and its initial oxidation product, epoxyisoprene, the principal inducer of isoprene metabolism in both Variovorax sp. WS11 and Rhodococcus sp. AD45. Analysis of the genomes of distinct isoprene‐degrading bacteria indicated that all of the genetic components of the methylcitrate and methylmalonyl‐CoA pathways are not always present in isoprene degraders, although incorporation of isoprene‐derived carbon via propionyl‐CoA and acetyl‐CoA is universally indicated.
Continuous feeding strategy for polyhydroxyalkanoate production from solid waste animal fat at laboratory‐ and pilot‐scale
Authors: Gutschmann Björn , Maldonado Simões Matilde , Schiewe Thomas , Schröter Edith S. , Münzberg Marvin , Neubauer Peter , Bockisch Anika , Riedel Sebastian L.
Published: August 2022

Bioconversion of waste animal fat (WAF) to polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) is an approach to lower the production costs of these plastic alternatives. However, the solid nature of WAF requires a tailor‐made process development. In this study, a double‐jacket feeding system was built to thermally liquefy the WAF to employ a continuous feeding strategy. During laboratory‐scale cultivations with Ralstonia eutropha Re2058/pCB113, 70% more PHA (45 gPHA L−1) and a 75% higher space–time yield (0.63 gPHA L−1 h−1) were achieved compared to previously reported fermentations with solid WAF. During the development process, growth and PHA formation were monitored in real‐time by in‐line photon density wave spectroscopy. The process robustness was further evaluated during scale‐down fermentations employing an oscillating aeration, which did not alter the PHA yield although cells encountered periods of oxygen limitation. Flow cytometry with propidium iodide staining showed that more than two‐thirds of the cells were viable at the end of the cultivation and viability was even little higher in the scale‐down cultivations. Application of this feeding system at 150‐L pilot‐scale cultivation yielded in 31.5 gPHA L−1, which is a promising result for the further scale‐up to industrial scale.
Predicting postpartum haemorrhage: A systematic review of prognostic models
Authors: Carr Bethany L. , Jahangirifar Maryam , Nicholson Ann E. , Li Wentao , Mol Ben W. , Licqurish Sharon
Published: August 2022

Background

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) remains a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide, and the rate is increasing. Using a reliable predictive model could identify those at risk, support management and treatment, and improve maternal outcomes.

Aims

To systematically identify and appraise existing prognostic models for PPH and ascertain suitability for clinical use.

Materials and Methods

MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched using combinations of terms and synonyms, including ‘postpartum haemorrhage’, ‘prognostic model’, and ‘risk factors’. Observational or experimental studies describing a prognostic model for risk of PPH, published in English, were included. The Critical Appraisal and Data Extraction for Systematic Reviews of Prediction Modelling Studies checklist informed data extraction and the Prediction Model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool guided analysis.

Results

Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria after screening 1612 records. All studies were hospital settings from eight different countries. Models were developed for women who experienced vaginal birth (n = 7), caesarean birth (n = 2), any type of birth (n = 2), hypertensive disorders (n = 1) and those with placental abnormalities (n = 4). All studies were at high risk of bias due to use of inappropriate analysis methods or omission of important statistical considerations or suboptimal validation.

Conclusions

No existing prognostic models for PPH are ready for clinical application. Future research is needed to externally validate existing models and potentially develop a new model that is reliable and applicable to clinical practice.
Dermatological considerations and culturally sensitive recommendations for women who wear the hijab
Authors: Rehman Rafey , Haque Mahfujul , Ceresnie Marissa , Hamzavi Iltefat H. , Fahs Fatima , Mohammad Tasneem F.
Published: August 2022

Currently, there is little guidance in the literature on how to advise patients who wear the hijab on hijab-related dermatoses. This manuscript describes hijab-related dermatoses and provides culturally sensitive recommendations that can be used in conjunction with standard treatments to provide more holistic care for these patients.
I‐PET score: Combining whole body iodine and 18F‐FDG PET/CT imaging to predict progression in structurally or biochemically incomplete thyroid cancer
Authors: Wijewardene Ayanthi , Hoang Jeremy , Maw Aung Min , Gild Matti , Tacon Lyndal , Roach Paul , Schembri Geoffrey , Chan David , Clifton‐Bligh Roderick
Published: August 2022

Objective

We propose a new scoring system (I‐PET) combining whole body scan (WBS) and FDG findings to identify patients who have or are likely to become refractory to radioactive iodine.

Design

Retrospective analysis of 142 patients age >18 with differentiated thyroid cancer who had a F‐18 labelled fluoro‐2‐deoxyglucose (18F‐FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) and WBS within a 6‐month period between 2010 and 2020. Pairs of 18F‐FDG PET and WBS were reviewed by three independent nuclear medicine physicians and an I‐PET score was assigned: I‐PET [0]: Iodine −ve/FDG −ve, I‐PET [1]: Iodine +ve/FDG −ve, I‐PET [2]: Iodine +ve/FDG +ve and I‐PET [3]: Iodine −ve/FDG +ve. Patients with FDG +ve lesions (I‐PET [2] and I‐PET [3]) were further classified into groups A and B if SUVmax was ≤5 or >5, respectively. Follow‐up data were obtained by chart review. Progression was defined as structural progression as per RECIST 1.1 or further surgical intervention; or biochemical progression as unstimulated thyroglobulin increasing >20% from baseline.

Results

Of 142 patients included in the study 121 patients had follow‐up data available for review. At baseline, 49 patients were classified as I‐PET [0], 10 as I‐PET [1], 16 as I‐PET [2] and 46 as I‐PET [3]. Progression was seen in 11/49 (22%) of I‐PET [0], 4/10 (40%) of I‐PET [1], 10/16 (63%) of I‐PET [2] and 34/46 (74%) of I‐PET [3] (p < 0.001). I‐PET [2B] and I‐PET [3B] had a progression rate of 88% (7/8) and 78% (25/32), respectively. I‐PET [3B] were 9.6 times more likely to commence multikinase inhibitor therapy (p = 0.001) and had 8 times greater mortality (p = 0.003) than patients in other I‐PET groups combined.

Conclusion

I‐PET is a simple readily acquired imaging biomarker that potentially enhances the dynamic risk stratification and guide treatment in thyroid cancer.
Thinking and doing with childism in children's literature studies
Authors: Deszcz‐Tryhubczak Justyna , García‐González Macarena
Published: August 2022

In this article we share our reflections on how childism has enabled us to navigate theoretical assumptions shaping our field and develop new positions and research practices fostering child–adult interdependencies. Justyna Deszcz‐Tryhubczak has relied on childism as a framework for the introduction of participatory research with young readers as a way for advancing child–adult collaboration. Macarena García‐González has deployed childism to think about adultism and its analogies to sexism. Although we offer a critique of childism as an essentializing concept, we also show how for both of us it has served as a gateway towards other approaches, and especially post‐anthropocentric understandings both of texts, readers and the world and of our critical engagements. Finally, we argue that childism may remain a productive starting point for further openings in children's literature and culture studies and childhood studies if it becomes a plural and messy notion that questions the discourse of hope for a better future as defining children's lives.
Lichen‐planus‐pemphigoides‐like reaction to PD‐1 checkpoint blockade
Authors: Wat Margaret , Mollanazar Nicholas K. , Ellebrecht Christoph T. , Forrestel Amy , Elenitsas Rosalie , Chu Emily Y.
Published: August 2022

Background

Programmed cell death protein (PD‐1) and programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) inhibition checkpoint blockade leads to various cutaneous adverse reactions, including bullous pemphigoid and lichen‐planus‐like reactions. However, lichen planus pemphigoides (LPP), manifesting histopathologic features of both lichen planus and bullous pemphigoid, has more rarely been associated with immunotherapy.

Methods

The clinical and histopathologic findings of three patients were examined, and a review of cases of LPP and bullous lichen planus secondary to PD‐1 inhibitor therapy was performed.

Results

Three patients (two with advanced non‐small‐cell lung adenocarcinoma and the third with metastatic breast cancer) presented with both lichenoid eruptions and bullae. Biopsy of the lesions revealed lichenoid tissue reactions in all three patients. Together with the histopathologic findings, direct immunofluorescence (DIF) showing linear C3 and IgG deposition and positive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showing BP180 positivity supported a diagnosis of LPP in two patients. The third patient in our series also showed confirmatory ELISA testing supporting LPP.

Conclusions

Lichen planus pemphigoides is a distinct cutaneous toxicity to checkpoint inhibitor therapy illustrates a possible pathogenic mechanism and the importance of dermatopathology recognition to render an accurate diagnosis.
The potential of arboreal pitfall traps for sampling nontargeted bee and wasp pollinators
Authors: de Arruda Filipe Viegas , Camarota Flávio , Silva Rogério R. , Izzo Thiago Junqueira , Bergamini Leonardo Lima , Almeida Rony Peterson Santos
Published: August 2022

Insect pollinators, including bees and wasps, are facing a marked decline in their native populations, caused mainly by human activities, such as forest fragmentation, urbanization, and the use of agrochemicals. To help mitigate the rapid decline of pollinators, new efforts towards understanding basic and applied aspects of these organisms are necessary. Among these efforts, there is a focus on increasing the sampling efficiency, including a broader range of targeted groups and collection methods. Although each method has its advantages and disadvantages, the pollinators' crisis calls for alternative methods to analyze bee and wasp diversity and population dynamics. Here, we assess the potential role of incidental captures of bees and wasps by a method widely used to collect ants but not targeted for bees: arboreal pitfall traps. We compared the sampling efficiency of human urine‐baited arboreal pitfall traps and two traditional methods for bee sampling: pan traps and scent traps. Arboreal pitfalls collected a high diversity of bees and sphecoid wasps, and when compared with pan traps and scent traps, they had the highest species richness and the second‐highest abundance. Although the three trapping methods shared most species, each method collected particular groups of species, and there were indicator species for each trapping method. When used in pairs with pan traps, arboreal pitfalls collected a higher species diversity than pan traps paired with scent traps. In addition, each trapping method responded differently to seasonal variation, and although arboreal pitfalls had lower diversity during the rainy season, scent traps detected differences only in species abundance, and pan traps detected no differences at all. Our study reinforces the importance of complementary methods in sampling bees and wasps and the use of non‐traditional methods to increase the sampling coverage of these insects.
Validation of the patients‐specific functional scale in patients with haemophilia
Authors: Chimeno‐Hernández Ana , Alberola‐Zorrilla Pilar , Sánchez‐Zuriaga Daniel
Published: August 2022

Introduction

A complete functional assessment is essential to measure health status and treatment effects in patients with haemophilia. The Patient‐Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) is a reliable, valid, simple and quick scale that measures physical function in patients with musculoskeletal disorders. However, the reliability and validity of the PSFS have not been evaluated in patients with haemophilia.

Aim

The aim of this study was to validate the Patient‐Specific Functional Scale in patients with haemophilia.

Methods

Twenty‐eight patients with haemophilia participated in the study. They completed the PSFS and the Haemophilia Activity List (HAL) scales by telephone during an initial session, and then repeated the assessment in a follow‐up session 1 week apart. Reliability was analysed by the internal correlation coefficient (ICC), the standard error of measurement (SEM) and the smallest detectable change (SDC). The concurrent validity of the PSFS was determined by correlating the initial score of the PSFS scale to the initial score of the HAL scale. Correlations were calculated by means of scatter plots and Pearson product‐moment r correlation coefficient.

Results

ICC and SEM values showed excellent reliability for the PSFS scale, with a SDC of 1. A significant moderate correlation was found between the results of the PSFS and the HAL (r = .57, P < .001).

Conclusion

The PSFS is a reliable and valid scale to measure the functionality of people with haemophilia.
Pulmonary sialadenoma papilliferum and its mimics: what you need to know
Authors: Gao HW , Sun P-L
Published: August 2022

Pumonary salivary gland‐type tumours (SGT) represent a small but distinct group of primary lung neoplasms. These types of tumours originate from the submucosal bronchial glands of the tracheobronchial tree. Pulmonary SGTs differ greatly in the incidence of individual tumours from salivary gland tumours of the head and neck. Additionally, the vast majority of pulmonary SGT are malignant. Recently, pathological diagnosis has significantly improved with the application of molecular diagnostic technologies. However, the current knowledge of benign SGTs is limited; moreover, tumour diversity and overlapping morphological features of SGT represent diagnostic challenges such as correct tumour categorisation and their accurate differentiation from malignant lesions. Compounding this inherent difficulty has been the recent introduction of new variants, including sialadenoma papilliferum (SP). Pulmonary SP is very rare, with limited reports available, and most of the initial diagnoses rendered so far were incorrect, resulting in inappropriate treatment. Several cases of SP have recently been reported. This review will serve to update practicing pathologists on the morphology, immunophenotype and molecular characteristics of SP and its mimics.
Fusion transcript analysis reveals slower response kinetics than multiparameter flow cytometry in childhood acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Karlsson Lene , Nyvold Charlotte Guldborg , Soboli Anastasia , Johansson Pegah , Palmqvist Lars , Tierens Anne , Hasle Henrik , Lausen Birgitte , Jónsson Ólafur Gisli , Jürgensen Gitte Wulff , Ebbesen Lene Hyldahl , Abrahamsson Jonas , Fogelstrand Linda
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Analysis of measurable residual disease (MRD) is increasingly being implemented in the clinical care of children and adults with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). However, MRD methodologies differ and discordances in results lead to difficulties in interpretation and clinical decision‐making. The aim of this study was to compare results from reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC) in childhood AML and describe the kinetics of residual leukaemic burden during induction treatment.

Methods

In 15 children who were treated in the NOPHO‐AML 2004 trial and had fusion transcripts quantified by RT‐qPCR, we compared MFC with RT‐qPCR for analysis of MRD during (day 15) and after induction therapy. Eight children had RUNX1::RUNX1T1, one CBFB::MYH11 and six KMT2A::MLLT3.

Results

When ≥0.1% was used as cut‐off for positivity, 10 of 22 samples were discordant. The majority (9/10) were MRD positive with RT‐qPCR but MRD negative with MFC, and several such cases showed the presence of mature myeloid cells. Fusion transcript expression was verified in mature cells as well as in CD34 expressing cells sorted from diagnostic samples.

Conclusions

Measurement with RT‐qPCR suggests slower response kinetics than indicated from MFC, presumably due to the presence of mature cells expressing fusion transcript. The prognostic impact of early measurements with RT‐qPCR remains to be determined.
Evolution of antibiotic resistance impacts optimal temperature and growth rate in Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis
Authors: Mira Portia , Lozano-Huntelman Natalie , Johnson Adrienne , Savage Van M. , Yeh Pamela
Published: August 2022

Aims

Bacterial response to temperature changes can influence their pathogenicity to plants and humans. Changes in temperature can affect cellular and physiological responses in bacteria that can in turn affect the evolution and prevalence of antibiotic-resistance genes. Yet, how antibiotic-resistance genes influence microbial temperature response is poorly understood.

Methods and Results

We examined growth rates and physiological responses to temperature in two species—E. coli and Staph. epidermidis—after evolved resistance to 13 antibiotics. We found that evolved resistance results in species-, strain- and antibiotic-specific shifts in optimal temperature. When E. coli evolves resistance to nucleic acid and cell wall inhibitors, their optimal growth temperature decreases, and when Staph. epidermidis and E. coli evolve resistance to protein synthesis and their optimal temperature increases. Intriguingly, when Staph. epidermidis evolves resistance to Teicoplanin, fitness also increases in drug-free environments, independent of temperature response.

Conclusion

Our results highlight how the complexity of antibiotic resistance is amplified when considering physiological responses to temperature.

Significance

Bacteria continuously respond to changing temperatures—whether through increased body temperature during fever, climate change or other factors. It is crucial to understand the interactions between antibiotic resistance and temperature.