bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Storage, patterns and influencing factors for soil organic carbon in coastal wetlands of China
Authors: Xia Shaopan , Song Zhaoliang , Van Zwieten Lukas , Guo Laodong , Yu Changxun , Wang Weiqi , Li Qiang , Hartley Iain P. , Yang Yuanhe , Liu Hongyan , Wang Yidong , Ran Xiangbin , Liu Cong‐Qiang , Wang Hailong
Published: June 2022

Soil organic carbon (SOC) in coastal wetlands, also known as “blue C,” is an essential component of the global C cycles. To gain a detailed insight into blue C storage and controlling factors, we studied 142 sites across ca. 5000 km of coastal wetlands, covering temperate, subtropical, and tropical climates in China. The wetlands represented six vegetation types (Phragmites australis, mixed of P. australis and Suaeda, single Suaeda, Spartina alterniflora, mangrove [Kandelia obovata and Avicennia marina], tidal flat) and three vegetation types invaded by S. alterniflora (P. australis, K. obovata, A. marina). Our results revealed large spatial heterogeneity in SOC density of the top 1‐m ranging 40–200 Mg C ha−1, with higher values in mid‐latitude regions (25–30° N) compared with those in both low‐ (20°N) and high‐latitude (38–40°N) regions. Vegetation type influenced SOC density, with P. australis and S. alterniflora having the largest SOC density, followed by mangrove, mixed P. australis and Suaeda, single Suaeda and tidal flat. SOC density increased by 6.25 Mg ha−1 following S. alterniflora invasion into P. australis community but decreased by 28.56 and 8.17 Mg ha−1 following invasion into K. obovata and A. marina communities. Based on field measurements and published literature, we calculated a total inventory of 57 × 106 Mg C in the top 1‐m soil across China's coastal wetlands. Edaphic variables controlled SOC content, with soil chemical properties explaining the largest variance in SOC content. Climate did not control SOC content but had a strong interactive effect with edaphic variables. Plant biomass and quality traits were a minor contributor in regulating SOC content, highlighting the importance of quantity and quality of OC inputs and the balance between production and degradation within the coastal wetlands. These findings provide new insights into blue C stabilization mechanisms and sequestration capacity in coastal wetlands.
Blood pressure in persons with haemophilia with a focus on haemophilia‐specific risk factors
Authors: Ter‐Zakarian Anna , Barnes Richard F. W. , Kruse‐Jarres Rebecca , Quon Doris V. , Jackson Shannon , Sun Haowei (Linda) , von Drygalski Annette
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Persons with haemophilia (PWH) have a higher prevalence of hypertension compared to the general population, which cannot be explained entirely by the usual cardiovascular risk factors. Neutralizing antibodies (inhibitors) against clotting factors might have some relation to cardiovascular disease in PWH. However, whether inhibitors facilitate hypertension is unknown.

Aim

We investigated the relationship between hypertension/blood pressure and inhibitors in PWH. Additional goals were to determine the relationships with haemophilia type, race, and viral status.

Methods

Records were extracted retrospectively for PWH (age ≥18 years) between 2003 and 2014 from four Hemophilia Treatment Centers in North America and included demographics, weight, height, haemophilia type/severity, HCV and HIV infection status, hypertension, use of anti‐hypertensive medications, and inhibitor status. We fitted semiparametric generalized additive models (GAMs) to describe adjusted curves of blood pressure (BP) against age.

Results

Among 691 PWH, 534 had haemophilia A and 157 had haemophilia B, with a median age of 39 years (range 18 to 79). Forty‐four PWH (6.5%) had a history of inhibitors, without evidence for a higher prevalence of hypertension or higher BP. A higher prevalence of hypertension and higher BP were noted for haemophilia A (vs. haemophilia B), coinfection with HCV/HIV (vs. uninfected), or moderate haemophilia (vs. severe haemophilia).

Conclusion

While there was no signal to suggest that a history of inhibitors is associated with hypertension, differences based on haemophilia type, severity, and viral infection status were identified, encouraging prospective investigations to better delineate haemophilia‐specific risk factors for hypertension.
To B‐ or not to B‐: A review of lineage switched acute leukemia
Authors: Kurzer Jason H. , Weinberg Olga K.
Published: June 2022

Acute leukemia is a heterogeneous disorder of hematologic malignancies composed primarily of hematopoietic precursors that have acquired unregulated self‐renewal and proliferation. Hematology classification systems typically divide these neoplasms into lymphoid (B‐ or T‐) and myeloid‐lineage subtypes, with therapy dependent upon this distinction. Infrequently, certain acute leukemias may undergo a complete lineage switch at relapse, subsequently complicating the diagnosis and treatment of these recurrent diseases. Transformation from B‐lineage to myeloid lineage is the most common switch observed, and is frequently associated with a balanced 11q23 translocation, involving KMT2A. The mechanisms involved in the lineage‐switch are unclear, but modern therapies targeting the B‐cell‐specific marker, CD19, have proven to promote this conversion as one means of treatment escape. Broadly speaking, therapy‐mediated selection of alternate lineage‐committed subclones derived from the same initial pluripotent progenitors, clonal evolution and reprogramming of lineage‐committed blasts, and de novo clonally unrelated leukemias may account for the clinical impression of lineage switched acute leukemia during treatment. This review will explore the phenomenon and potential mechanisms of lineage transformation during the treatment of acute leukemia.
Nurses' job burnout and its association with work environment, empowerment and psychological stress during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Al Sabei Sulaiman Dawood , Al‐Rawajfah Omar , AbuAlRub Raeda , Labrague Leodoro J. , Burney Ikram Ali
Published: June 2022

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of perceived work environment, empowerment and psychological stress on job burnout among nurses working at the time of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Background

Nurses experienced high levels of job burnout during the pandemic, which impacted their mental health and well‐being. Studies investigating the influence of work environment, empowerment and stress on burnout during the time of COVID‐19 are limited.

Design

The study utilized a cross‐sectional design.

Methods

Data were collected from 351 nurses in Oman between January and March 2021. The Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index, the Conditions of Work Effectiveness Questionnaire and the Perceived Stress Scale were used to assess study variables.

Results

About two‐thirds of the nurses (65.6%) reported high levels of job burnout. Nurse managers' ability, leadership and support; staffing and resources adequacy; and nurses' access to support were significant factors associated with a reduced level of burnout.

Conclusion

Supporting nurses during the crisis, ensuring adequate staffing levels and providing sufficient resources are critical to lower job burnout. Creating a positive and empowered work environment is vital to enhance nurses' retention during the pandemic.
The nervous system during COVID‐19: Caught in the crossfire
Authors: Natale Nick R. , Lukens John R. , Petri William A.
Published: June 2022

SARS‐CoV‐2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease (COVID)‐19, has become a persistent global health threat. Individuals who are symptomatic for COVID‐19 frequently exhibit respiratory illness, which is often accompanied by neurological symptoms of anosmia and fatigue. Mounting clinical data also indicate that many COVID‐19 patients display long‐term neurological disorders postinfection such as cognitive decline, which emphasizes the need to further elucidate the effects of COVID‐19 on the central nervous system. In this review article, we summarize an emerging body of literature describing the impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection on central nervous system (CNS) health and highlight important areas of future investigation.
Biofilms in wound healing: A bibliometric and visualised study
Authors: Li Peiting , Tong Xiaofei , Wang Tianyin , Wang Xin , Zhang Wancong , Qian Li , Liao Junlin , Diao Wuliang , Zhou Jianda , Wu Wei
Published: June 2022

Bibliometric analyses are often used as a means of visualising the knowledge base and associated trends and patterns in a target scientific field based on a quantitative review of the corresponding literature. In this study, we explore the current status of research pertaining to biofilms in wound healing and elucidate trends in this research space. Through this process, we gain insight into findings from papers indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection. These references were then analysed and plotted using Microsoft Excel 2019, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace V. The results provide a fresh perspective regarding global trends and hotspots in biofilm‐related wound healing research. These findings also offer a foundation that researchers can use to identify active hotspots of scientific interest to guide further research endeavours.
Nutritional value of commercial broiler feed supplemented with olive mill waste fermented with probiotic Rhizopus oryzae strains
Authors: Hamza Ahmed Adel , Abaci Gunyar Ozlem
Published: June 2022

Aims

The changes in chemical composition and metabolizable energy (ME) of both olive mill waste (OMW) upon fermentation by three potential probiotic Rhizopus oryzae strains and commercial feed (CF) upon its supplementation by fermented olive mill waste (FOMW) were investigated. The objective was to test whether there will be an enhancement in the nutritional value of OMW after fermentation and/or commercial broiler feed upon supplementation by potentially probiotic filamentous fungi.

Methods and results

A three Rhizopus oryzae strains (92/1, 236/2 and 284) isolated from agricultural soil that were proven to have good probiotic properties (non-toxic, antimicrobial activity, antioxidant capacity and gastrointestinal tolerance) were used to ferment OMW, then the chemical composition was analysed after 7 and 14 days of fermentation. The FOMW with the R. oryzae 284 strain, which gave the best results, was added to a commercial broiler feed at 20%, 30% and 40% supplementation ratios. Then proximal analyses were done to compare non-supplemented with supplemented CF. Chemical analyses included dry weight, crude protein, crude fats, crude fibres, crude ash, sugars and starch, and then ME was calculated from the given values.

Conclusions

Compared to non-fermented OMW, the best results were obtained by the R. oryzae 284 strain allowing an increase in crude protein content by 23.4% after 7 days of fermentation, a decrease in crude fibre content by 9.8% after 14 days of fermentation and an increase in ME by 3.6% after 7 days of fermentation. Compared to non-supplemented CF, the ME changes of 20%, 30% and 40% supplementation increased by 8.38%, 2.83% and decreased by 4.27%, respectively.

Significance and Impact of the Study

FOMW can be incorporated into broiler feed rations until 30% without causing any decrease in metabolizable energy. It can be a cheaper alternative with promising productivity and chicken health improvements.
An Italian survey on the microbiological safety of toys containing aqueous media
Authors: Rossella Briancesco , Paduano Stefania , Paradiso Rosa , Coccia Anna Maria , La Rosa Giuseppina , Della Libera Simonetta , Semproni Maurizio , Bonadonna Lucia
Published: June 2022

Aims

The purpose of the present investigation is to fill the current gap in information regarding the microbiological quality of toys containing aqueous media and the related risks for users.

Methods

Over 18 years, a total of 491 sealed toys containing aqueous media were analysed using conventional microbial culture methods. In addition, molecular methods (PCR/nested RT-PCR, followed by Sanger sequencing) were employed to test for enteric viruses (enteroviruses and adenoviruses) in a subset of toys; subsequently, the infectivity of the positive samples was tested on cell cultures.

Results

Of the examined toys, 23.8% were noncompliant with the limits of the European guideline. The most frequently exceeded limits were those for Aerobic bacteria (84.6%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (29.9%). Other opportunistic bacterial species that were frequently detected were Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Burkholderia cepacia, Sphingomonas paucimobilis and Comamonas acidovorans. In a subset of 28 samples, adenovirus (25%) and enterovirus (11%) genome was also found to be present, although the samples with viral positivity did not show infectivity after inoculation on appropriate cell monolayers.

Conclusions

The results indicate a condition of microbial exposure related to the use of toys containing aqueous media.

Significance and Impact of Study

The investigation highlights the need for more stringent monitoring during the production, packaging and storage of toys containing aqueous matrices in order to safeguard children's health.
Regional and local environment drive biogeographic patterns in intertidal microorganisms
Authors: Xu Yuan , Chen Xinyi , Zhang Jiawei , Soininen Janne
Published: June 2022

Aim

Understanding large‐scale spatial distribution patterns is not only a central goal of ecology but is also essential for conservation planning. Nevertheless, the biogeographical patterns of diversity and composition remain unclear for microorganisms and the role of various factors in structuring their assemblages is still poorly known. Here, we tested whether the diversity and community structure of ciliates are driven by both local environmental and regional dispersal‐related processes.

Location

Coasts of China.

Taxon

Benthic ciliates.

Methods

We sampled ciliates at 30 sandy beaches covering a latitudinal range of over 2500 km from October to November 2020. We first used generalized linear models to examine the most important predictors of ciliate alpha diversity. Then, distance‐based linear models (DistLM) were used to identify the relative importance of local and regional variables in explaining community structure variability. We further used nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) and permutational multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA) to reveal patterns in community structure.

Results

We found that local environmental factors including beach index (BI), salinity and mean particle size (MPS) were more important in shaping ciliate alpha diversity than latitude. However, the Shannon alpha diversity index decreased with latitude, perhaps due to anthropogenic disturbances. DistLM analysis emphasized regional processes in shaping community structure. Both NMDS and PERMANOVA supported a clear separation among the three clusters matching with the ecoregional delineations suggested for macroorganisms. We also note that community trait composition was partially explained by a local factor, i.e. the maximum spring tide range of beaches.

Main conclusions

Ciliate communities were driven by both local environmental and regional factors. We suggest that these biogeographic patterns may have stemmed from large‐scale environmental filtering related to the outflow of Yangtze River, rather than from dispersal limitation or historical events. The current study provides a new understanding of the biogeographic patterns and underlying mechanisms of marine microorganisms, thus helping improve their management and conservation in the face of future global change.
Commentary: A longitudinal exploration of the effects of the COVID‐19 lockdowns for adolescents both with and without neurodevelopmental disorders – a reflection on Houghton et al. (2022)
Authors: Field Charlotte
Published: June 2022

The lockdowns during the COVID‐19 pandemic had and continue to have severe and wide‐ranging effects worldwide on mental health and loneliness. In this commentary, I summarise Houghton et al. (2022) who explored these effects longitudinally in adolescents in Western Australia, with and without a Neurodevelopmental Disorder (NDD), considering the strengths and weaknesses of the article and its importance to the field. Adolescents with NDD, who already had a high baseline rate of loneliness and mental health difficulties, did not find that this increased during COVID‐19 lockdowns. However, adolescents without NDD, who began with a much lower baseline rate, found that this was elevated. There was variability in terms of different types of NDD, with adolescents who had ADHD reporting some positive effects of the COVID‐19 lockdowns. These findings highlight the importance of support for adolescents both with NDD and those without as the world emerges out of the pandemic.
Haematology reference values for Dicentrarchus labrax and Sparus aurata: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Michail George , Berillis Panagiotis , Nakas Christos , Henry Morgane , Mente Eleni
Published: June 2022

Haematological parameters are frequently used as physiological indicators in aquaculture studies. These parameters also have extended applications in clinical evaluation, diagnosis and prognosis in fish health status. However, no normal reference range of values has been demonstrated in depth for any of these haematological parameters for the European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) or gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata). The main objective of this article is to present for the first time through extended literature review, the haematological parameters normal range values for the two most important aquaculture fish species farmed in Mediterranean Sea, D. labrax and S. aurata, and to demonstrate their similarities and their differences. In this article, we also discuss the environmental and external factors affecting their normal blood parameters values and we propose fundamental guidelines on the reporting units.
Patient‐derived cancer organoids for drug screening: Basic technology and clinical application
Authors: Ren Xiaoxue , Chen Weikang , Yang Qingxia , Li Xiaoxing , Xu Lixia
Published: June 2022

Cancer organoids, a three‐dimensional (3D) culture system of cancer cells derived from tumor tissues, recapitulate physiological structure of the parental tumor. Different tumor organoids have been established for a variety of tumor types, such as colorectal, liver, stomach, pancreatic and brain tumors. Some tumor organoid biobanks are built to screen and discover novel antitumor drug targets. Moreover, patients‐derived tumor organoids (PDOs) could predict treatment response to chemoradiotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy to provide guidance for personalized cancer therapy. In this review, we provide an updated overview of tumor organoid development, summarize general approach to establish tumor organoids, and discuss the application of anti‐cancer drug screening based on tumor organoid and its application in personalized therapy. We also outline the opportunities and challenges for organoids to guide precision medicine.
Current status and development potential of scalp healthcare in the COVID‐19 blue era: A critical review focused on Republic of Korea
Authors: Shin Eun Jung , Kwon Ki Han
Published: June 2022

Aims

The purpose of this paper was to review the literature focusing on the scalp health of the Korean people in the COVID‐19 blue era and the possibility of significant development as an academic.

Methods

This review paper is a literature review, and the method is a narrative review.

Results

It was found that the higher the awareness of hair loss, the better the scalp and hair management behavior. South Korea needs to develop systematic customized management methods, scalp programs, and products due to the development of the COVID‐19 era and the development of the 4th industry.

Conclusion

South Korea still needs to improve the expertise of tricolologists and national social security insurance and research along with the growth of the beauty and healthcare service industry in the COVID‐19 blue era.
The Correlation of Surface Roughness Parameters of Zirconia and Lithium Disilicate with Steatite Wear
Authors: Krüger Stephan , Wille Sebastian , Kern Matthias
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Various surface roughness parameters are utilized to describe the surface in the tooth to ceramics abrasion and to assess the resulting wear. The use of three‐dimensional parameters may offer a better estimation for wear and an improved deduced clinical surface treatment. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of various surface roughness parameters of zirconia and lithium disilicate ceramics on the wear of steatite antagonists.

Material and methods

Forty zirconia specimens with a diameter of 7 mm and a thickness of 3 mm and 40 lithium disilicate specimens with the dimensions 10×10×4 mm were each divided into five subgroups. Two subgroups were treated with different clinically established diamond burs; a third subgroup was treated with a silicone polishing set. Two additional subgroups were produced by glazing the surfaces after treatment. Surface roughness parameters were determined by laser scanning microscopy. All specimens underwent 1.2 million loading cycles using steatite antagonists. After regular intervals of cycles, precision impressions were made to assess the wear. The correlation between wear and different roughness parameters was evaluated using the Spearman correlation test.

Results

For the glazed zirconia, unglazed zirconia, and glazed lithium disilicate specimens no significant correlations (p > 0.05) between the investigated roughness parameters and antagonist wear could be found. In the unglazed lithium disilicate groups, significant (p ≤ 0.05) correlations with steatite substance loss could be found for several roughness parameters after 1.2 million cycles.

Conclusions

For lithium disilicate, it seems not sufficient to use only one roughness parameter to indicate the wear behavior of the surface. There was no correlation between wear and the tested roughness parameters of zirconia surfaces.
Prioritising long‐term outcomes for preterm babies: A survey of consumers and clinicians
Authors: Kuo Jex , Petrie Keith J , Alsweiler Jane M
Published: June 2022

Aim

To determine if consumers and clinicians believe intelligence or health outcomes are more important long‐term outcomes for babies born preterm.

Methods

Prospective, online survey of six outcomes ranked using a hierarchy ladder, Likert scale and a hypothetical scenario: education (complete secondary school); longevity (70 years of age or more); money (sufficient for rent and food); normal weight; good health and intelligence. Participants were clinicians taking care of preterm babies, parents of preterm babies, ex‐preterm adults and adult controls.

Results

The survey was completed by 145 participants (35 controls, 36 clinicians, 39 parents and 35 ex‐preterm adults). Health was the most frequently top‐ranked variable on the hierarchy ladder (health; 99/145 (68.3%), money; 17/145 (11.7%), longevity; 10/145 (6.9%), education; 8/145 (5.5%), normal weight; 6/145 (4.1%), intelligence; 5/145 (3.4%), P < 0.0001), with no statistical difference between the groups. On a 5‐point Likert scale, participants were most likely to agree that sufficient money, health and finishing secondary school were important for preterm babies to have a good life (mean (SD): money 4.43 (0.81); health 4.39 (0.72); education 4.37 (0.81); normal weight 4.10 (0.81); intelligence 4.03 (0.94); longevity 4.01 (1.07), P < 0.0001). In the scenario, the option of an ex‐preterm adult having a healthy life with low socio‐economic status (SES), was preferred over high SES with an unhealthy life (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Health was perceived as the most important long‐term outcome for preterm babies. Future research should prioritise good health outcomes for babies born preterm.
Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of carprofen in sheep
Authors: Coskun Devran , Corum Orhan , Durna Corum Duygu , Uney Kamil , Elmas Muammer
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of carprofen in sheep following single intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous (SC), and oral (PO) administrations of a parenteral formulation at a dose of 4 mg/kg. A total of eight sheep were used for the investigation. The study comprised four periods, according to a crossover design with a 21‐day washout period between treatments. Plasma concentrations of carprofen were measured using HPLC‐UV. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated by non‐compartmental model analysis. Following IV administration, t1/2ʎz, ClT, and Vdss were 43.36 h, 1.98 ml/h/kg, and 121.36 ml/kg, respectively. The Cmax(obs) was 26.57 mg/ml for the IM, 23.76 mg/ml for the SC, and 15.90 mg/ml for the PO. The bioavailability following IM, SC, and PO administrations was 75.47%, 82.00%, and 62.51%, respectively. Plasma creatine kinase activity increased significantly at 3, 6, and 12 h following IM administration of carprofen. Despite differences in plasma concentrations and bioavailability among administration routes, carprofen at 4 mg/kg dose may provide the plasma concentration (>1.5 μg/ml) needed for analgesic effect during 144 h in all routes. However, because of the slow absorption rate after SC and PO routes, the IV route may be preferred primarily for the rapid onset in the analgesic and anti‐inflammatory effect of carprofen in sheep. Despite the favorable kinetics, the muscle damage caused by IM injection limits use of carprofen via IM route.
Effect of dietary levels of folic acid on growth performance, blood biochemistry, antioxidant capacity, and immunity of juvenile largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides
Authors: Hang Ying , Hua Xueming , Li Xiang , Yi Wanting , Cong Xiangming
Published: June 2022

To obtain the optimal requirement of dietary folic acid (FA) in feed of juvenile largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides, five experimental diets were prepared with 0, 0.5, 1.5, 4.5, and 13.5 mg/kg of supplemental FA in the basal practical diet (measured FA value <0.18 mg/kg in the basal diet) and fed to juvenile largemouth bass with an initial body weight of (14.49 ± 0.06) g for 7 weeks. The results showed that the weight gain rate and specific growth rate of the experimental fish in each FA supplementation group were higher than those in the control group to varying degrees and reached maximum values at 1.5 mg/kg in the experimental group, which were significantly higher than those in the FA‐free group; the increase in the addition of FA to the diet significantly reduced the visceral to body ratio (visceral somatic index), liver to body ratio, and relative intestine weight. The addition of ≥0.5 mg/kg FA to the feed significantly increased the whole fish protein content. The hemoglobin content and hematocrit of whole blood cells were significantly increased in the fish group supplemented with 0.5–1.5 mg/kg FA, and the addition of 0.5 mg/kg FA significantly increased the number of red blood cells. Plasma total protein and albumin levels increased and then decreased with the addition of FA, reaching a maximum at 1.5 mg/kg, and differed significantly from the FA‐free group. The addition of 0.5 mg/kg and more of FA significantly decreased plasma alanine transaminase (GPT) activity and improved liver GPT activity, the addition of 0.5 mg/kg and more of FA significantly decreased serum malonaldehyde activity, 0.5 mg/kg of FA significantly increased total hepatic antioxidant capacity, 1.5 mg/kg of FA significantly increased hepatic catalase and head kidney lysozyme activity. The addition of 0.5 mg/kg and above of FA significantly reduced liver glycogen content. In conclusion, the addition of FA to the diet significantly improved the growth performance, hematopoiesis, metabolism of protein and carbohydrate, antioxidant capacity of the liver, and protected liver health of juvenile largemouth bass. Regression analysis based on growth performance showed that the optimal amount of FA in the feed of juvenile largemouth bass was 1.42–1.46 mg/kg.
High-yield production of acidic pectin lyase PNLZJ5B for juice processing
Authors: Liu C. , Qin X. , Liu B. , Xu X. , Deng A. , Zhang Y. , Zhang Z. , Zhang W.
Published: June 2022

A pectin lyase gene pnlzj5b from Aspergillus niger ZJ5 was identified and overexpressed successfully in Pichia pastoris. Recombinant PNLZJ5B exhibited high activity towards citrus pectin (150 U ml−1). Through further codon optimization, the expression efficiency of PNLZJ5B in P. pastoris increased to 3·5-fold (532/150 U ml−1). PNLZJ5B was purified by ultrafiltration, anion exchange and gel chromatography. It showed optimal activity and good stability at 58°C and pH 4·5. PNLZJ5B activity improved with increasing degrees of methyl esterification of pectin. The Km and Vmax values were 0·81 mg ml−1 and 372·8 μmol min−1 mg−1, respectively. In addition, PNLZJ5B effectively decreased the viscosity of apple juice. Compared with commercial pectin lyase, PNLZJ5B obtained a higher juice volume. These favourable enzymatic properties of PNLZJ5B show potential utility in juice-processing applications and other food-related fields.
Determining the noble gas cosmic ray exposure ages of 23 meteorites (8 chondrites and 15 achondrites) from modeling and empirical methods
Authors: Bekaert David V. , Curtice Joshua , Meier Matthias M. M. , Byrne David J. , Broadley Michael W. , Seltzer Alan , Barry Peter , Kurz Mark D. , Nielsen Sune G.
Published: June 2022

We present He‐Ne‐Ar isotope data for 23 meteorite samples mainly recovered in Antarctica (six ordinary chondrites [OC], two CV chondrites, eight eucrites, one diogenite, and six ureilites), which are used to compute radiogenic gas retention ages and cosmic ray exposure (CRE) ages using both empirical and modeling approaches. For all samples where both 40K‐40Ar and U,Th‐4He retention ages could be derived, we find that U,Th‐4He ages are systematically lower than 40K‐40Ar ages, likely reflecting preferential diffusive loss of He relative to Ar. There is good agreement between empirically derived CRE ages calculated by (22Ne/21Ne)cos‐3Hecos and (22Ne/21Ne)cos‐21Necos approaches; where discrepancies occur, the (22Ne/21Ne)cos‐3Hecos approach systematically yields lower CRE ages, also likely due to 3He loss. Overall, CRE ages derived from the empirical and modeling approaches show excellent agreement, within ∼10%. CRE ages derived for OC (4–24 Myr), CV chondrites (12–26 Myr), eucrites (4–45 Myr), the diogenite (30 Myr), and ureilites (<10 Myr) are in line with previous investigations of these meteorite groups. Some ureilites and one eucrite exhibit remarkably high cosmogenic 22Ne/21Ne > 1.24, as previously observed in various other rare achondrites. These samples likely contain solar cosmic ray‐produced Ne (SCR‐Ne) in addition to the commonly found galactic cosmic ray‐produced Ne (GCR‐Ne), implying low pre‐atmospheric shielding and limited ablation upon atmospheric entry. The presence of SCR‐Ne complicates the determination of the pure GCR‐22Ne/21Ne, hampering its use as a shielding indicator. Nonetheless, we suggest that a first‐order correction for SCR‐Ne contribution can be used to derive a range of potential CRE ages for each sample.
Apocynin inhibits compressive force‐induced apoptosis and autophagy of periodontal ligament stem cells
Authors: Li Bin , Shi Yuchun , Fu Yanbin
Published: June 2022

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Apocynin on compressive force‐induced apoptosis and autophagy in periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs).

Materials and Methods

Periodontal ligament stem cells were subjected to a uniform compressive force of 2.0 g/cm2 for 24 h, without and with addition of 50, 100 and 200 μM Apocynin. Beclin‐1 was overexpressed in PDLSCs. Flow cytometry was used to assess apoptosis and transmission electron microscopy was used to evaluate ultrastructural features of PDLSCs. Immunofluorescence was used to assess the levels of microtubule‐associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3). The protein levels of B‐cell lymphoma‐2 (Bcl‐2), Bcl‐2 associated X (Bax), Caspase‐3, LC3, and Beclin were determined by Western blot analysis.

Results

Compressive force of PDLSCs significantly increased apoptosis, Bax, Caspase‐3, the number of autophagosome or autolysosomes, Beclin‐1, the ratio of LC3 II/LC3 I, and decreased Bcl‐2. Apocynin was shown to inhibit apoptosis and Beclin‐1‐mediated autophagy. Over‐expression of Beclin‐1 increased apoptosis and autophagy.

Conclusions

Application of Apocynin attenuated long‐term compressive force‐induced apoptosis by regulating Beclin‐1‐mediated autophagy in PDLSCs. These results provide an alternative approach to improve orthodontic treatment outcomes for patients.
Seascape context matters more than habitat condition for fish assemblages in coastal ecosystems
Authors: Goodridge Gaines Lucy A. , Henderson Christopher J. , Mosman Jesse D. , Olds Andrew D. , Borland Hayden P. , Gilby Ben L.
Published: June 2022

Ecosystems are increasingly degraded, fragmented and lost because of human activities globally. These impacts cause changes in the distribution of biodiversity and key ecological functions, modifications to food webs and reductions in ecosystem condition and seascape connectivity. Understanding whether, and how, the spatial context (i.e. extent, position) and condition (i.e. structure and condition of patches, including habitat forming species) of ecosystems coalesce to support their function as animal habitats is critical for effective and cost efficient coastal management. These potential combined, or interactive, effects of spatial context and habitat condition on fish assemblages are, however, rarely quantified. We sampled fish assemblages from six different ecosystems (mangrove, seagrass, saltmarsh, log snag, rocky outcrop and unvegetated sediment) across 13 estuaries in eastern Australia and quantified the relative importance of spatial context and habitat condition variables for fish assemblage composition. Spatial context variables were consistently more important than habitat condition in structuring fish abundance and diversity. Sites that were closer to smaller vegetated habitats (i.e. mangrove and seagrass) and key seascape features (i.e. estuary mouth and intertidal flats) typically supported diverse fish assemblages in high abundance. While the composition of fish assemblages was primarily linked to spatial context variables, habitat condition variables that index food availability were also important for fish in mangroves, seagrass and rocky outcrops. Our results show that fish abundance and diversity are intimately linked to seascape connectivity and heterogeneity, and have important implications for conservation planning and fisheries management decisions in coastal ecosystems. We highlight the importance of quantifying the influence of the combined effects of habitat condition and spatial context for biodiversity across multiple ecosystems, and expect the outcomes to lead to more efficient and effective management planning.
What matters the most in curbing early COVID‐19 mortality? A cross‐country necessary condition analysis
Authors: Yan Bo , Liu Yao , Chen Bin , Zhang Xiaomin , Wu Long
Published: June 2022

COVID‐19 represents a turbulent problem: a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous crisis, in which bounded‐rational policymakers may not be able to do everything right, but must do critical things right in order to reduce the death toll. This study conceptualizes these critical things as necessary conditions (NCs) that must be absent to prevent high early mortality from occurring. We articulate a policy‐institution‐demography framework that includes seven factors as NC candidates for high early COVID‐19 mortality. Using necessary condition analysis (NCA), this study pinpoints high levels of a delayed first response, political decentralization, elderly populations, and urbanization as four NCs that have inflicted high early COVID‐19 mortality across 110 countries. The results highlight the critical role of agility as a key dimension of robust governance solutions—a swift early public‐health response as a malleable policy action—in curbing early COVID‐19 deaths, particularly for politically decentralized and highly urbanized countries with aging populations.
The MITF regulatory network in melanoma
Authors: Chauhan Jagat S. , Hölzel Michael , Lambert Jean‐Philippe , Buffa Francesca M. , Goding Colin R.
Published: June 2022

Bidirectional interactions between plastic tumor cells and the microenvironment critically impact tumor evolution and metastatic dissemination by enabling cancer cells to adapt to microenvironmental stresses by switching phenotype. In melanoma, a key determinant of phenotypic identity is the microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor MITF that promotes proliferation, suppresses senescence, and anticorrelates with immune infiltration and therapy resistance. What determines whether MITF can activate or repress genes associated with specific phenotypes, or how signaling regulating MITF might impact immune infiltration is poorly understood. Here, we find that MITF binding to genes associated with high MITF is via classical E/M‐box motifs, but genes downregulated when MITF is high contain FOS/JUN/AP1/ATF3 sites. Significantly, the repertoire of MITF‐interacting factors identified here includes JUN and ATF3 as well as many previously unidentified interactors. As high AP1 activity is a hallmark of MITFLow, invasive, slow‐cycling, therapy resistant cells, the ability of MITF to repress AP1‐regulated genes provides an insight into how MITF establishes and maintains a pro‐proliferative phenotype. Moreover, although β‐catenin has been linked to immune exclusion, many Hallmark β‐catenin signaling genes are associated with immune infiltration. Instead, low MITF together with Notch signaling is linked to immune infiltration in both mouse and human melanoma tumors.
Perceptions of and subjective difficulties with social cognition in schizophrenia from an internet survey: Knowledge, clinical experiences, and awareness of association with social functioning
Authors: Uchino Takashi , Okubo Ryo , Takubo Youji , Aoki Akiko , Wada Izumi , Hashimoto Naoki , Ikezawa Satoru , Nemoto Takahiro
Published: June 2022

Aim

Social cognition impacts social functioning in schizophrenia; however, little is known about how patients with schizophrenia themselves perceive social cognition. This study, using an internet survey, aimed to investigate their knowledge of social cognition, clinical experiences related to social cognition, awareness of social cognition's role in one's social life, and the relationships between subjective difficulties with social cognition and social functioning.

Methods

Data from 232 outpatients with schizophrenia (SZ) and 494 healthy controls (HC) were obtained through an internet survey and were weighted according to the demographics of the national population. A newly developed survey questionnaire on knowledge, experience, and awareness of social cognition was administered. Subjective difficulties were evaluated using the Self‐Assessment of Social Cognition Impairments and the Observable Social Cognition Rating Scale.

Results

Less than a quarter of both groups were familiar with the term or concept of social cognition. Less than 5% of both groups had experienced being assessed or treated for social cognition. More than half of both groups were aware of the relationship between social cognition and social functioning. The SZ group had higher levels of subjective difficulties than the HC group across all social cognitive domains. The attributional bias domain of subjective difficulties was negatively associated with social functioning.

Conclusion

Patients with schizophrenia had substantial subjective difficulties in social cognition, which they perceived as being related to social functioning. However, their knowledge of social cognition was limited, and the assessment and treatment might not be widespread in regular clinical practice.
Outcomes of infants with pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum listed for heart transplantation: A multi‐institutional study
Authors: Joong Anna , Zuckerman Warren A. , Koehl Devin , Cantor Ryan , Alejos Juan C. , Ameduri Rebecca K. , Boyle Gerard J. , Rothkopf Amy C. , Kirklin James K. , Gajarski Robert J.
Published: June 2022

Background

Management of infants with pulmonary atresia/intact ventricular septum (PA/IVS) is variable. Because of higher mortality in more severe forms, heart transplant (HT) is an acceptable approach, but waitlist and post‐transplant outcomes are unclear. This study compared outcomes of infants with PA/IVS vs. other single ventricle (SV) anatomies listed for HT.

Methods

Data from the Pediatric Heart Transplant Society (1993–2018) were analyzed for survival and risk factors for mortality.

Results

Of 1617 SV infants, 300 had PA/IVS (19%) and 1317 had other SV (81%). Overall, 1‐, 5‐, and 10‐year survival was higher among PA/IVS (74%, 65%, 61%) versus other SV infants (62%, 54%, 50%, p = .004). While waitlist mortality was similar between groups (p = .09), PA/IVS was an independent predictor of improved waitlist survival (HR 0.68, p = .03), and PA/IVS infants had higher incidence of waitlist removal (8% vs. 5.5%, p = .03), most commonly for being “too well.” Post‐transplant survival was superior among PA/IVS versus other SV infants (1‐ and 5‐year survival 93% and 81% vs. 80% and 71%, p < .0001). Risk factors for PA/IVS waitlist mortality (2008–2018) included extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and mechanical ventilation. Prior aortopulmonary (AP) shunt among PA/IVS infants was associated with improved waitlist survival.

Conclusions

Overall survival among PA/IVS infants listed for HT exceeds that of other SV infants with PA/IVS identified as an independent predictor of improved waitlist and post‐transplant survival. Prior AP shunt among listed PA/IVS infants was associated with improved waitlist outcomes, though, which may reflect a listing selection bias.
Predicting organ functioning with and without blood transfusion in critically ill patients with anemia
Authors: Kranenburg Floris J. , Arbous Sesmu M. , Caram‐Deelder Camila , Putter Hein , Cessie Saskia le , van der Bom Johanna G.
Published: June 2022

Background

To develop a model for the prediction of the (most likely) effect of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion on subsequent organ functioning in nonbleeding critically ill patients with hemoglobin concentrations between 6 and 9 g/dL.

Study Design and Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using electronic health care data of nonbleeding patients admitted between November 2004 and May 2016 at the intensive care unit (ICU) of the Leiden University Medical Center, The Netherlands. We analyzed the associations between transfusion (yes/no) and next‐day SOFA scores (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment—as a measure for organ functioning) for all observed combinations of hemoglobin values (between 6 and 9 g/dL) and concurrent clinical variables.

Results

Data of 6425 ICU admission of 5756 critically ill patients with 28,702 hemoglobin values between 6 and 9 g/dL (transfusion decision moments) of which 22.1% were followed by a transfusion were analyzed. The adjusted average difference between the next‐day SOFA score of transfused versus not‐transfused patients was 0.08 (95% confidence interval [CI] −0.03 to 0.18). At singular transfusion decision moments, the score predicted a beneficial effect of transfusion on next‐day SOFA score for some subgroups and medical conditions and a harmful effect in other occasions.

Conclusions

Among these critically ill patients with hemoglobin concentrations between 6 and 9 g/dL the population average effect of transfusion on the next SOFA score was negligible. Further, our results support caution in clinical decision‐making regarding transfusion of critical ill, nonbleeding ICU patients.
Multi‐institutional retrospective study of canine foot pad malignant melanomas: 20 cases
Authors: Jeon Mark D. , Leeper Haley J. , Cook Matthew R. , McMillan Sarah K. , Bennett Tristram , Murray Caroline A. , Tripp Chelsea D. , Curran Kaitlin M.
Published: June 2022

Melanomas arising from the foot pad are a rare clinical entity in dogs. The biologic behaviour of foot pad malignant melanoma is not well understood, and these tumours are infrequently described. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical characteristics of primary canine foot pad melanoma in a larger cohort of patients. Eligible cases were solicited from the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Oncology listserv for retrospective review. Included dogs had a cytologic and/or histologic diagnosis of foot pad melanoma evaluated by a board‐certified clinical or anatomic pathologist. Dogs with cutaneous, oral, digital, subungual or interdigital melanomas were excluded. A total of 20 cases were included. Eleven dogs received various adjuvant therapies including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or the ONCEPT canine melanoma vaccine following surgery. At diagnosis, regional lymph node metastasis was observed in four dogs (20%). Seven dogs developed subsequent regional and/or distant metastasis for an overall metastatic rate of 55%. The progression‐free interval (PFI) was 101 days (range, 20–960 days). The median survival time (MST) was 240 days (range, 25–479 days). For dogs receiving adjuvant therapy, the MST was 159 days (range, 25–387 days). Canine foot pad melanoma is a rare neoplasm that can exhibit an aggressive behaviour.
Sex differences in the ventilatory responses to exercise in mild to moderate obesity
Authors: Bhammar Dharini M. , Balmain Bryce N. , Babb Tony G. , Bernhardt Vipa
Published: June 2022

New Findings

What is the central question of the study?

What are the sex differences in ventilatory responses during exercise in adults with obesity?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Tidal volume and expiratory flows are lower in females when compared with males at higher levels of ventilation despite small increases in end‐expiratory lung volumes. Since dyspnoea on exertion is a frequent complaint, particularly in females with obesity, careful attention should be paid to unpleasant respiratory symptoms and mechanical ventilatory constraints while prescribing exercise.

Obesity is associated with altered ventilatory responses, which may be exacerbated in females due to the functional consequences of sex‐related morphological differences in the respiratory system. This study examined sex differences in ventilatory responses during exercise in adults with obesity. Healthy adults with obesity (n = 73; 48 females) underwent pulmonary function testing, underwater weighing, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a graded exercise test to exhaustion, and two constant work rate exercise tests; one at a fixed work rate (60 W for females and 105 W for males) and one at a relative intensity (50% of peak oxygen uptake, ). Metabolic, respiratory and perceptual responses were assessed during exercise. Compared with males, females used a smaller proportion of their ventilatory capacity at peak exercise (69.13 ± 14.49 vs. 77.41 ± 17.06% maximum voluntary ventilation, P = 0.0374). Females also utilized a smaller proportion of their forced vital capacity (FVC) at peak exercise (tidal volume: 48.51 ± 9.29 vs. 54.12 ± 10.43%FVC, P = 0.0218). End‐expiratory lung volumes were 2–4% higher in females compared with males during exercise (P < 0.05), while end‐inspiratory lung volumes were similar. Since the males were initiating inspiration from a lower lung volume, they experienced greater expiratory flow limitation during exercise. Ratings of perceived breathlessness during exercise were similar between females and males at comparable levels of ventilation. In summary, sex differences in the manifestations of obesity‐related mechanical ventilatory constraints were observed. Since dyspnoea on exertion is a common complaint in patients with obesity, particularly in females, exercise prescriptions should be tailored with the goal of minimizing unpleasant respiratory sensations.