bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Street vendors and power relations among actors: process of place making in Borobudur food and craft market
Authors: Rembulan Cicilia Larasati , Kusumowidagdo Astrid , Rahadiyanti Melania
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Existing literature shows conflicting views regarding street vendors in a place. They are considered both positive and negative. Their existence has rarely been examined from a combination of place-making and power theories. This research aimed (a) to identify the actors who transform Borobudur Food and Craft Market and the sources of power and actions carried out by these actors and (b) to find out the views of other actors about street vendors.

Design/methodology/approach

The design used in this study was an instrumental case study. The data were collected using semi-structured interviews and photo documentation. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling with several participants of as many as 12 persons consisting of 4 street vendors, 4 employees of the state-owned enterprise in charge of the Borobudur tourist site and 4 tourists. The data were analyzed through two-phased coding. To improve the credibility, participant validation was conducted.

Findings

This study made new findings. First, in a place, there are formal and informal place-making actors who transform the place with the sources of power they have and the acts of power they carry out. Both formal and informal actors can perform coercive and noncoercive acts of power. This shows the existence of contested power in a setting. Second, street vendors are viewed positively as well as negatively. Comprehensive policies need to be implemented by key actors to minimize the negative sides of the existence of street vendors and optimize the benefits from them.

Research limitations/implications

Data collection was carried out when the Indonesian government implemented restrictions on public activities during the pandemic. At that time, tourism activities were very limited. In the future, researchers can use other techniques such as the self-report visual method because not all street vendors are fluent in expressing their opinions in interviews.

Practical implications

Both central and regional governments and local stakeholders can synergistically carry out a dialogue, seeking common ground to accommodate each other's interests. The next steps are to consistently apply the policies resulting from the dialogue and ensure that each actor plays a role according to their respective portion and authority.

Originality/value

Previous studies typically explain power as the possession of resources and relational attributes. This study has taken a different point of view, namely about acts of power contested in a certain place. Actors who have power are not always those who have formal legitimacy. Informal parties are considered powerless despite having power.
Drug repositioning strategy for the identification of novel telomere‐damaging agents: A role for NAMPT inhibitors
Authors: Rizzo Angela , Maresca Carmen , D'Angelo Carmen , Porru Manuela , Di Vito Serena , Salvati Erica , Sacconi Andrea , Berardinelli Francesco , Sgura Antonella , Kuznetsov Sergey , Potdar Swapnil , Hassinen Antti , Stoppacciaro Antonella , Zizza Pasquale , Biroccio Annamaria
Published: October 2023

Drug repositioning strategy represents a valid tool to accelerate the pharmacological development through the identification of new applications for already existing compounds. In this view, we aimed at discovering molecules able to trigger telomere‐localized DNA damage and tumor cell death. By applying an automated high‐content spinning‐disk microscopy, we performed a screening aimed at identifying, on a library of 527 drugs, molecules able to negatively affect the expression of TRF2, a key protein in telomere maintenance. FK866, resulting from the screening as the best candidate hit, was then validated at biochemical and molecular levels and the mechanism underlying its activity in telomere deprotection was elucidated both in vitro and in vivo. The results of this study allow us to discover a novel role of FK866 in promoting, through the production of reactive oxygen species, telomere loss and deprotection, two events leading to an accumulation of DNA damage and tumor cell death. The ability of FK866 to induce telomere damage and apoptosis was also demonstrated in advanced preclinical models evidencing the antitumoral activity of FK866 in triple‐negative breast cancer—a particularly aggressive breast cancer subtype still orphan of targeted therapies and characterized by high expression levels of both NAMPT and TRF2. Overall, our findings pave the way to the development of novel anticancer strategies to counteract triple‐negative breast cancer, based on the use of telomere deprotecting agents, including NAMPT inhibitors, that would rapidly progress from bench to bedside.
A physiotherapy‐led review of guideline‐based care for community‐dwelling older people presenting to a metropolitan hospital with accidental falls
Authors: Barton Loren , Nelson Mark , Scholes Corey , Strudwick Kirsten
Published: October 2023

Objective(s)

Several guidelines exist to inform best‐practice management of community‐dwelling fallers. This study aimed to outline a pragmatic approach to developing an audit tool for guideline‐based care of falls and provide an overview of current practice.

Methods

An audit tool to determine compliance with guideline‐based care was developed with an allied health and physiotherapy focus, utilising the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health‐Care Guidelines for Preventing Falls and Harm from Falls in Older People (2009) and Queensland State Government ‘Stay on your Feet’ guidelines. A retrospective audit of medical records was completed in July 2020 of community‐dwelling people aged 65 years and over with a fall‐related emergency department (ED) presentation in a medium‐sized metropolitan hospital in Australia. Data were compared between patients admitted to hospital and those discharged home from the ED.

Results

Ninety‐three patients were included: 68 were discharged home from ED and 25 were admitted to hospital. There was a significant difference in receiving an allied health review (p < .001) between admitted patients (96%) and those who discharged home from ED (68%). The Clinical Frailty Scale was only completed for 23% of patients. Physiotherapy quality‐of‐care (n = 46 patients) was variable, with poor completion of physical outcome measures (7%) and fall education (4%). However, assessment of mobility was routinely completed (94%), and most patients were referred to an appropriate community service (66%).

Conclusions

Adherence to guideline‐based care of community‐dwelling fallers is inconsistent. Improvements are required in the consistency of risk stratification, comprehensive physical assessment and patient education.
The regulation of tolerogenic dendritic cells by a Chinese herb formula improves abortion prone in mice
Authors: Ma Fei , Feng Xiaoyang , Wang Erfeng , Ma Chang , Wu Jiaman , He Shan , Tian Ying , Qiu Pingping , Tan Liya , Liu Jin , Li Jia , Hu Suqin , Yang Pingchang , Ning Yan
Published: October 2023

Background

Abortion prone (AP) is a common clinical event. The underlying mechanism remains unclear. Traditional Chinese formulas are known to be efficient in the management of abortion. The purpose of this study is to observe the effects of Anzitiaochongtang (AZT), a traditional formulation of Chinese medicine, on improving AP in mice by regulating immune tolerance.

Methods

An established abortion model (CBA/J×DBA/2) was employed. AZT was prepared and administered to mice in a manner consistent with clinical practice. Tolerogenic dendritic cells (tDC) and type 1 regulatory T cells (Tr1 cell) in mice were analyzed by immunological approaches to be used as representative immune tolerant parameters.

Results

An AP model was established with CBA/J × DBA/2 mice. The expression of IL‐10 in tDC and Tr1 cell frequency in the mouse decidua tissues were lower in the AP group than that in the normal pregnancy (NP) group. Administration of AZT up regulated the expression of IL‐10 in tDCs and Tr1 cell generation in the decidua tissues, and improved the pregnancy and tissue structure in AP mice. The main mechanism by which AZT improves pregnancy in AP mice is that AZT enhanced the expression of galectin‐9 in the epithelial cells of decidua tissues. Galectin 9 activates TIM3 on DCs to promote the IL‐10 expression. The DCs induced more Tr1 cells in the decidua tissues.

Conclusions

Dysfunctional tDCs were detected in the AP decidua tissues. Administration of AZT improved pregnancy in AP mice by regulating tDC function and generation of Tr1 cells in the maternal‐fetal interface.
Blasts with folded nuclei: A histopathologic finding in myeloid leukemia cutis with NPM1 and FLT3 mutations
Authors: Han Shannon , Patel Tejesh , Garcia Marie‐Laure , Tirado Mariantonieta
Published: October 2023

Leukemia cutis is a term used to describe cutaneous manifestations of leukemic infiltration of the skin and portends a poor prognosis. Cutaneous involvement by hematopoietic/lymphoid tumors can occur before, concurrently, or after the initial diagnosis. Early involvement of dermatologists and timely biopsies play a crucial role in achieving a prompt diagnosis. Prior reports of acute myeloid leukemia have revealed a strong association between the cup‐like nuclear morphology observed in bone marrow specimens and concurrent mutations of NPM1 and FLT3‐ITD. In cutaneous tissue sections of leukemia cutis, folded or indented nuclei may represent the “cup‐like” counterpart previously described in bone marrow specimens. Recognizing this morphological feature could aid in identifying this molecular subtype of leukemia cutis. In this study, we present a case of leukemia cutis in a 63‐year‐old female with AML and NPM1 and FLT3‐ITD mutations, demonstrating scattered indented/folded nuclei.
Leveraging gamification technology to motivate environmentally responsible behavior: An empirical examination of Ant Forest
Authors: Zhang Qingyu , Anwar Muhammad Azfar
Published: October 2023

Realizing the role of their consumers in mitigating environmental problems, companies have started leveraging gamification technology with persuasive interventions to induce consumers’ behavioral changes. Ant Forest—a gamified initiative launched by a prominent Chinese fintech company—empowers users to manage their ecological footprint and promote ethical behavior. However, the research community has primarily focused on Ant Forest's adoption and continuation intention, paying limited attention to how gamification promotes users’ environmentally responsible behavior (ERB) in the postadoption stage. This study contributes to this domain by developing a model based on persuasion and motivation theories and the “affordances–psychological outcomes–behavioral outcomes” framework. This model highlights the impact of gamification on consumers' ERB through psychological need satisfaction and belief or attitude persuasion. A total of 1869 survey responses regarding the use of Ant Forest were collected from nine cities in China. The results demonstrate that, from gamification experiences with Ant Forest, users perceive psychological need satisfaction (i.e., perceived autonomy, competence, and relatedness), which significantly explains their green beliefs and attitudes (i.e., green task performance, green belief confirmation, and green self‐identity), leading to increased ERB. Additionally, users with a higher green absorptive capacity demonstrate a stronger link between green beliefs or attitudes and ERB. This research shifts the focus from adoption and continuation intention to postadoption behavioral modification and offers insights into creating effective gamification systems for fostering ethical behavior and addressing environmental concerns.
Impact of a dual glucose‐dependent insulinotropic peptide/glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist tirzepatide on heart rate among patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and pairwise and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Yucheng , He Liyun , Liu Peng , Wang Jialu , Yang Na , Li Ziyi , Ping Fan , Xu Lingling , Li Wei , Zhang Huabing , Li Yuxiu
Published: October 2023

Aims

To evaluate the impact of a dual glucose‐dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonist tirzepatide (TZP), and its potential dose‐response effect, on heart rate.

Methods

Articles were searched from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and clinical trials registries (ClinicalTrials.gov) databases. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing TZP at doses of 5, 10 and 15 mg in adults with type 2 diabetes were included. Six study arms were summarized from original research (TZP 5, 10 and 15 mg, GLP‐1 receptor agonists [GLP‐1RAs], insulin, placebo). The GLP‐1RA and non‐GLP‐1RA groups were combined to form a control group. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed the quality of each study. Mean differences (MDs) were calculated as effect estimates for continuous outcomes. Pairwise meta‐analyses and network meta‐analyses were conducted. The study protocol was prospectively registered (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023418551).

Results

Eight articles were included in this systematic review and meta‐analysis. The mean baseline heart rate ranged from 65.2 to 75.7 beats per minute. Pairwise meta‐analysis showed that, compared with combined the control group, there were significantly greater increases in heart rates in the TZP group (MD 1.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.75, 2.89). Similar significant rises were identified when comparing TZP with GLP‐1RAs and non‐GLP‐1RAs (GLP‐1 RAs: MD 2.29, 95% CI 1.00, 3.59; non‐GLP‐1RAs: MD 1.58, 95% CI 0.26, 2.91). TZP 5 mg was associated with smaller increases in heart rates compared to TZP 10 mg and TZP 15 mg (TZP 10 mg: MD −0.97, 95% CI −1.79, −0.14; TZP 15 mg: MD −2.57, 95% CI −3.79, −1.35). TZP 10 mg increased heart rate less than TZP 15 mg (MD −1.5, 95% CI −2.38, −0.82). Network meta‐analysis indicated that TZP 15 mg was associated with significant increases in heart rate compared with TZP 5 mg (MD 2.53, 95% CI 1.43, 3.62), TZP 10 mg (MD 1.44, 95% CI 0.35, 2.53), GLP‐1RAs (MD 3.46, 95% CI 1.67, 5.25), insulin (MD 2.86, 95% CI 1.32, 4.41) and placebo (MD 2.96, 95% CI 1.36, 4.57).

Conclusions

Our study showed not only that there was a greater increase in heart rate in the TZP group than in the control, GLP‐1RA and non‐GLP‐1RA groups, but also that the 15‐mg dose of TZP had the strongest impact on increasing heart rates compared with the other five inventions, with a TZP dose‐response impact on heart rate. Further research on the effects of TZP treatment‐related increases in heart rate is required.
Evolutionary and ecological forces shape nutrient strategies of mycorrhizal woody plants
Authors: Guo Lulu , Deng Meifeng , Li Xuefei , Schmid Bernhard , Huang Junsheng , Wu Yuntao , Peng Ziyang , Yang Lu , Liu Lingli
Published: October 2023

The associations of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) or ectomycorrhiza (EcM) fungi with plants have sequentially evolved and significantly contributed to enhancing plant nutrition. Nonetheless, how evolutionary and ecological forces drive nutrient acquisition strategies of AM and EcM woody plants remains poorly understood. Our global analysis of woody species revealed that, over divergence time, AM woody plants evolved faster nitrogen mineralization rates without changes in nitrogen resorption. However, EcM woody plants exhibited an increase in nitrogen mineralization but a decrease in nitrogen resorption, indicating a shift towards a more inorganic nutrient economy. Despite this alteration, when evaluating present‐day woody species, AM woody plants still display faster nitrogen mineralization and lower nitrogen resorption than EcM woody plants. This inorganic nutrient economy allows AM woody plants to thrive in warm environments with a faster litter decomposition rate. Our findings indicate that the global pattern of nutrient acquisition strategies in mycorrhizal plants is shaped by the interplay between phylogeny and climate.
Urban military geographies: New directions in the (re)production of space, militarism, and the urban
Authors: Spanu Giacomo
Published: October 2023

Armed forces in urban areas are a very visible source of socio‐spatial and urban change. Even in contemporary cities ‘at peace’, this presence and ensuing changes can be wide‐ranging, evident across infrastructure, organisations, narratives of place, events, and everyday activities. Although over the past 2 decades critical military studies and urban geopolitics have explored some of these themes, an urban studies perspective on such military geographies in peacetime has elicited far less attention. The aim of this article is to open up opportunities for deeper conceptualisation and research on urban military geographies. This article establishes a dialogue between critical military studies and urban geopolitics, to review the different dimensions of the influence of a military presence in urban space, and to provide a synthesis of these two bodies of literature. Using Lefebvre's dialectical theory of spatial production, this review shows how cities can be privileged spaces for the reproduction of militarism and preparation for war. Moreover, it examines how the presence of military forces in peacetime can influence the material and immaterial production of urban space.
Effect of gluten protein levels on physicochemical and fermentation properties of corn dough
Authors: Xie Dongdong , Li Xing , Li Xinhao , Ren Shuncheng
Published: October 2023

In this experiment, the effects of gluten protein levels of 6.83% (low gluten), 10.24 (medium gluten), and 13.65% (high gluten), on the physicochemical and fermentation properties of corn dough, were studied. The water absorption and weakening of corn dough increased significantly with gluten protein addition, but the development time was gradually shortened. The gas retention capacity of the dough was improved by the addition of gluten protein, which delayed the gas leakage time. The G′ and G" modulus decreased, while Tan δ increased with the increase of gluten protein content. After fermentation, corn dough with 13.65% gluten protein content had the least amount of free water. Total sulfhydryl bond content and disulfide bond content were highest in the dough with a gluten protein content of 13.65%, but irregular curling was not observed. Doughs with gluten protein content of 6.83% were less viscoelastic and elastic compared to doughs with gluten protein content of 10.24%. The gluten protein content of over 10.24% greatly improved the rheological properties of corn dough to a greater extent by strengthening the network structure of the dough.
Pre‐stroke anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation in primary English speakers and non‐primary English speakers: a multicentre retrospective cohort study
Authors: Bacchi Stephen , Kovoor Joshua G. , Goh Rudy , Gupta Aashray K. , Tan Sheryn , Ovenden Christopher D. , To Minh‐Son , Moey Andrew , Sanders Prashanthan , Chew Derek P. , Schultz David , Kovoor Pramesh , Kleinig Timothy , Jannes Jim
Published: October 2023

Background

Anticoagulation can prevent most strokes in individuals with atrial fibrillation (AF); however, many people presenting with stroke and known AF are not anticoagulated. Language barriers and poor health literacy have previously been associated with decreased patient medication adherence. The association between language barriers and initiation of anticoagulation therapy for AF is uncertain.

Aims

The aims of this study were to determine whether demographic factors, including non‐English primary language, were (1) associated with not being initiated on anticoagulation for known AF prior to admission with stroke, and (2) associated with non‐adherence to anticoagulation in the setting of known AF prior to admission with stroke.

Methods

A multicentre retrospective cohort study was conducted for consecutive individuals admitted to the three South Australian tertiary hospitals with stroke units over a 5‐year period.

Results

There were 6829 individuals admitted with stroke. These cases included 5835 ischaemic stroke patients, 1333 of whom had pre‐existing AF. Only 40.0% presenting with ischaemic stroke in the setting of known pre‐existing AF were anticoagulated. When controlling for demographics, socioeconomic status and past medical history (including the components of the CHADS2VASC score and anticoagulation contraindications), having a primary language other than English was associated with a lower likelihood of having been commenced on anticoagulant for known pre‐stroke AF (odds ratio: 0.52, 95% confidence interval: 0.36–0.77, P = 0.001), but was not associated with a differing likelihood of anticoagulation adherence.

Conclusions

A significant proportion of patients with stroke have pre‐existing unanticoagulated AF; these rates are substantially higher if the primary language is other than English. Targeted research and interventions to minimise evidence‐treatment gaps in this cohort may significantly reduce stroke burden.
Prevalence of wound infections and postoperative complications after total elbow arthroplasty for rheumatoid arthritis: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Chen Qi‐Yuan , Liu Li , Gu Fang‐Zhou
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to systematically evaluate the prevalence of surgical site wound infections and postoperative complications after total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for clinical research and application. Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, CNKI, VIP, CBM, and Wanfang databases were electronically searched to collect clinical studies on the application of TEA in the treatment of RA from inception to August 2023. Two independent researchers performed literature screening, data extraction, and quality assessment. A meta‐analysis was performed using the R 4.3.1 software. Overall, 26 studies with a total of 2374 patients were included. The results of the meta‐analysis revealed that after TEA in patients with RA, the prevalence of surgical site wound infections and postoperative complications was 3.37% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.68%–4.13%), and 31.63% (95% CI: 24.97%–38.28%), respectively. The prevalence of surgical site wound infections is low, whereas that of postoperative complications is high; thus, the safety of TEA remains debatable. Owing to limitations on the quality and number of included studies, the findings need to be verified in higher‐quality studies.
Decreased Activities of Serine Proteinases in Spleen of Various Murine Models of Systemic Lupus Erythematodes
Authors: Aoyagi T. , Wada T. , Daskalov HP , Kojima F. , Nagai M. , Harada S. , Fujiwara M. , Makino M. , Umezawa H.
Published: October 2023

Previous studies indicated a relationship between immune deficiencies and abnormalities in the activities of various hydrolytic enzymes, including proteinases, in tissues. In the present study, we compared such activities in spleen among the three types of murine models of systemic lupus erythematodes (SLE) (i.e., New Zealand black/white mouse, MRL mouse, and BXSB mouse) and their controls. According to the results of multivariate analysis, it was shown that the most important enzymatic changes differentiating the pathologic animals from their controls were decreases in the activities of serine proteinases. Judging from the behavior of these enzymes in various immunological disturbances, it is likely that they play some important roles in pathophysiology of SLE.
Purification and Properties of a Phospholipase C that has High Activity Toward Sphingomyelin from Aspergillus Saitoi
Authors: Matsuoka S. , Kimura H. , Kiuchi A. , Ohkawa H. , Yagi K.
Published: October 2023

An enzyme hydrolyzing sphingomyelin was purified from extracts of solid cultures of Aspergillus saitoi 7041 by fractionation with isopropanol followed by successive column chromatographies on DEAE‐Sepharose CL‐6B, butyl‐Toyopearl 650 M, and phenyl‐Sepharose CL‐4B. The preparation of purified enzyme was homogeneous and had an activity increased 81‐fold over that of the isopropanol fraction. The yield was about 65%. The molecular weight was estimated to be 54,000 by sodium dodecyl sulfate‐gel electrophoresis. The enzyme solution had a violet color and contained iron atoms. The enzyme catalyzed the hydrolysis of sphingomyelin to N‐acylsphingosine and phosphorylcholine. The optimum pH for hydrolytic activity was around 3.5. The Km values for sphingomyelin and 2‐hexadecanoylamino‐4‐nitrophenylphosphorylcholine were 0.11 and 0.33 mM, respectively. The enzyme also catalyzed the hydrolysis of other phospholipids; the order of its hydrolytic activity at a substrate concentration of 2.5 mM was phosphatidylcholine greater than or equal to sphingomyelin = phosphatidylethanolamine = lysophosphatidylethanolamine greater than phosphatidyl DL‐glycerol = phosphatidyl L‐serine greater than phosphatidylinositol. From these results, this enzyme appears to be a new type of phospholipase C(phosphatidylcholine cholinephosphohydrolase, EC 3.1.4.3).
Targeting of mycotoxins to reticuloendothelial system of mice with carrier erythrocytes
Authors: DeLoach JR , Andrews K. , Naqi A.
Published: October 2023

The tricothecene mycotoxin, T‐2 toxin, was encapsulated in bovine erythrocytes for in vivo delivery of T‐2 toxin to macrophages. Intraperitoneal injection of bovine carrier erythrocytes (5 × 10(8) cells) containing T‐2 toxin saturated mouse liver uptake of erythrocytes by 6 h postinjection. At 24 h postinjection, 20% of the injected carrier cells containing toxin were localized in the liver of mice. Saturation of the liver uptake of bovine carrier cells was independent of encapsulated or free T‐2 toxin. A dose of T‐2 toxin sufficient to inhibit 50% of the macrophage protein synthesis was targeted to the liver via the carrier erythrocytes. A methodology for delivery of highly toxic molecules to liver macrophages is described.
Comparison of the properties of glucoamylases from Rhizopus niveus and Aspergillus niger
Authors: Pazur JH , Liu BL , Miskiel FJ
Published: October 2023

Some properties of the glucoamylase from Rhizopus niveus have been determined and compared with the comparable properties of the glucoamylase from Aspergillus niger. The enzymes from these organisms possess the following common properties: quantitative conversion of starch to glucose, molecular weights in the range 95,500 to 97,500, and glycoprotein structures with many oligosaccharide side chains attached to the protein moieties of the enzymes. Differences in the glucoamylases exist in electrophoretic mobility, amino acid composition, nature of carbohydrate units, and types of glycosidic linkages. Lysine, threonine, serine, glutamic acid, tyrosine, and phenylalanine differ in the two glucoamylases by 25 to 50%. Whereas the enzyme from R. niveus contains mannose and glucosamine, in the N‐acetyl form, as the carbohydrate constituents, the enzyme from A. niger contains mannose, glucose, and galactose. The carbohydrate chains of the R. niveus enzyme are linked by O‐glycosidic and N‐glycosidic linkages to the protein, while those of the A. niger enzyme are linked by O‐glycosidic linkages only. Antibodies directed against the two glucosamylases have been isolated by affinity chromatography and found to be specific for the carbohydrate units of the glucoamylases. Cross reactions did not occur between the glucoamylases and the purified antibodies.
Crosslinked fibrous collagen for use as a dermal implant: control of the cytotoxic effects of glutaraldehyde and dimethylsuberimidate
Authors: Hey KB , Lachs CM , Raxworthy MJ , Wood EJ
Published: October 2023

Collagen intended for use as a dermal implant may be crosslinked to increase its strength and persistence in vivo. Sheets of rat fibrous dermal collagen were crosslinked with either glutaraldehyde or dimethylsuberimidate and the cytotoxicity to human dermal fibroblasts resulting from these treatments was measured by following the inhibition of [3H]leucine incorporation into protein. Both agents were cytotoxic at the concentrations required to effect adequate crosslinking (0.005% and 25 mM, respectively). This cytotoxicity could be limited by extensive washing and by incubation with 5 mM L‐lysine, with 66 mM (0.25% w/v) sodium borohydride, or with 71.3 mM (1% w/v) dimedone. However, cytotoxicity was most efficiently controlled by treatment with a combination of 66 mM sodium borohydride and 5 mM L‐lysine or 66 mM sodium borohydride and 71.3 mM dimedone. [3H]Leucine incorporation by cells exposed to crosslinked collagen treated with these combinations approached 100% of the values recorded with cells exposed to uncrosslinked collagen.
Purification of factor VIII:c coagulant activity from rat liver nonparenchymal cell culture medium by immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography
Authors: Mantovaara T. , Pertoft H. , Porath J.
Published: October 2023

The purification of factor VIII:c coagulant activity on the basis of its affinity for calcium is described. For this purpose, use was made of a recently introduced chelating matrix, i.e., carboxymethylated aspartic acid agarose, coupled with calcium–thereby creating a gel with specificity comparable with biospecific affinity chromatography. In a single step factor VIII:c activity was purified from rat liver nonparenchymal cell culture medium with a purification factor of 85‐fold. The material exhibits a single band on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.
Laminarinase from Penicillium funiculosum and its role in release of beta‐glucosidase
Authors: Rao M. , Deshpande VV , Gaikwad S. , Mishra C.
Published: October 2023

An extracellular laminarinase (1—‐3)‐beta‐glucan glucohydrolase (EC 3.2.1.6) was purified from culture filtrates of Penicillium funiculosum. It was homogeneous on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence and absence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. It had a Mr of 14,000 and isoelectric point of pH 4.2. The apparent Km value for lamimarinase was 8.3 mg/ml and Vmax was 8 mumol/min/mg. The distribution of beta‐glucosidase activity in two different species of Penicillium showed that P. funiculosum had a higher ratio of extracellular to cell wall bound activity than Penicillium janthinellum. Treatment of mycelia of both species with NaCl, EDTA, Triton X‐100, or proteolytic enzymes did not release the cell wall bound beta‐glucosidase. Incubation of the mycelia with the laminarinase released 2–4 times more beta‐glucosidase than the estimated cell bound activity in P. janthinellum and P. funiculosum.
Use of liposomes, viral capsids, and nanoparticles as DNA carriers
Authors: Bertling WM , Gareis M. , Paspaleeva V. , Zimmer A. , Kreuter J. , Nurnberg E. , Harrer P.
Published: October 2023

We tested a variety of liposomes for parameters such as DNA binding capacity and DNase I protection of incorporated and attached DNA to elucidate their use as vehicles for DNA transfer into cells and animals. The results were compared to other potential DNA vehicles, empty viral capsids, and nanoparticles. Maximal binding capacity was achieved for positively charged nanoparticles, DNase I protection was observed for most preparations with neosome preparations being least efficient. The uptake of radiolabeled DNA by cells in culture was determined for cationic and nonionic surfactant vesicles, viral capsids, and nanoparticles. Cellular DNA uptake was best for dioleoyl‐derived positively charged liposomes (N‐[1‐(2,3‐dioleoyloxy)propyl]‐N,N,N‐trimethylammonium chloride; DOTMA) and the DNA could be shown to be physiologically active. The recombination rate for DNA fragments transfected in polyoma capsids in live mice was higher than for liposome mediated transfection. Homologous recombination could be observed for both DOTMA and polyoma‐mediated DNA transfer.
Solid‐phase synthesis of biologically active fragment 29–111 of rat prothymosin alpha
Authors: Abiko T. , Sekino H.
Published: October 2023

Rat prothymosin alpha fragment 29–111, an 83‐residue polypeptide corresponding to desthymosin alpha 1‐prothymosin alpha, has been synthesized by a solid‐phase method. Hydrogen fluoride was used to deprotect and cleave the peptide from the resin. The crude product was purified by gel‐filtration, ion‐exchange chromatography and high‐performance liquid chromatography. A 3.2‐mg sample of a ca. 96% pure peptide was finally obtained. The overall yield of the synthesis was less than 1%. An increase of E‐rosette‐forming lymphocytes was obtained after incubation of peripheral blood from uremic patients with the synthetic prothymosin alpha fragment 29–111. The restoring effect of the synthetic prothymosin alpha fragment 29–111 was greater than that of our synthetic thymosin alpha 1.
Gellan gum biosynthetic enzymes in producing and nonproducing variants of Pseudomonas elodea
Authors: Martins LO , Sa‐Correia I.
Published: October 2023

A pathway for the synthesis of the repeating tetrasaccharide units in gellan gum from Pseudomonas elodea is proposed. The enzymes presumed to be involved in the synthesis of the activated precursors UDP‐glucose, TDP‐rhamnose, and UDP‐glucuronic acid were detected and assayed in crude cell extracts of the gellan‐producing (Gel+) P. elodea ATCC 31461. The levels of UDP‐glucose pyrophosphorylase and TDP‐glucose pyrophosphorylase were higher in cells grown in media leading to higher gellan yields. Moreover, these enzymes exhibited lower values in cells of a Gel‐ variant, spontaneously obtained from the Gel+ wild type. The activation or repression of their synthesis is thought to be involved in the expression of the mucoid phenotype. Nevertheless, based on results here reported, the involvement of other enzymes, that catalyze steps downstream from the formation of the precursors cannot be excluded.
Immunological versatility and carbon regulation of Cellulomonas fimi endo‐1,4‐beta‐glucanases
Authors: Kolios G. , Papadopoulos GK , Roussis I. , Drainas C.
Published: October 2023

More than 10 protein molecules with endo‐1,4‐beta‐glucanase activity were identified by sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and zymogram in Cellulomonas fimi culture supernatants, grown in CMC as carbon source. These molecules are shown to belong to at least four immunologically different groups, against three of which polyclonal antibodies were raised. The protein species used as antigens showed significant differences in cross reactivity, carbon regulation, and affinity to crystalline cellulose. Three intracellular precursors of the first group were detected, two of which were under carbon catabolite control with the third apparently being synthesized constitutively. In the extracellular environment this group showed the largest versatility in protein molecules. The second group appeared to originate from two intracellular precursors both synthesized constitutively and subject to minor extracellular modifications as compared to the first group. The main extracellular protein of this group showed high affinity toward crystalline cellulose. One intracellular precursor was identified for the third group, which was subject to carbon catabolite control. Only one extracellular molecule without binding ability to crystalline cellulose corresponded to this precursor, indicating that the latter was resistant to proteolytic modifications after excretion. It appears that the C. fimi cellulases are more complex than expected and reconstitution of the whole system will be difficult.
Interactions of bioactive lipopeptides, iturin A and surfactin from Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Thimon L. , Peypoux F. , Dana Maget R. , Roux B. , Michel G.
Published: October 2023

The antifungal activity of iturin A and its interaction with erythrocyte membranes were enhanced in the presence of surfactin. The modification of the properties of iturin A was explained by the formation of mixed iturin A‐surfactin micelles. Such mixed micelles were easily generated when both lipopeptides were in aqueous solutions in the absence of mineral salts but the formation of these micelles did not occur when the solutions contained a high molarity of mineral cations.
Bovine pancreatic deoxyribonuclease F: isoelectric focusing, peptide mapping and primary structure
Authors: Chang YM , Lin S. , Liao TH
Published: October 2023

DNAase F is a minor isoform of bovine pancreatic DNAase which can be separated from the other isoforms (DNAases A, B, C and D) present in a commercial preparation by a preparative isoelectric‐focusing cell (Rotofor; Bio‐Rad). The ampholytes and other contaminating proteins present in DNAase F preparations can be removed by chromatography on an affinity column (Cibacron Blue 3GA‐agarose) and a hydrophobic‐interaction column (phenyl‐Sepharose CL‐4B). The complete separation of DNAase F from the other isoforms is demonstrated on a thin‐layer isoelectric‐focusing gel, DNAase F being the most basic (pI 5.68). A procedure is described for tryptic peptide mapping by h.p.l.c. requiring only picomolar amounts of DNAase F protein. The DNAase F map shows two peptide peaks not present in the DNAase A map, and the DNAase F map does not have a peak at the position where a C‐terminal peptide of DNAase A is normally eluted. The amino acid compositions and sequences for the two new peptides suggest that Gly240 in DNAase A is changed to Arg240 in DNAase F.
The Assessment of Suicidal Behavior in Adolescents
Authors: Garrison Carol Z. , Lewinsohn Peter M. , Marsteller Frederick , Langhinrichsen Jennifer , Lann Irma
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: All available assessment instruments (N = 29) used to study suicidal behaviors in adolescents and young adults (age 12–20) were collected and reviewed. Instruments were found to vary substantially in purpose, format, informant, and theoretical orientation. The items from these to ols (N = 461) were categorized according to behavior type (thoughts, feelings, or actions) and content categories (death/life‐related, disease‐promoting/preventing, injury‐producing/reducing, person‐reducing/enhancing, and factual information). The majority of the items were found to assess thoughts and were focused on death‐related content. Recommendations include the need for more rigorous validation of instruments, clearer operational definitions, additional normative information, and expansion of the pool of available items to encompass a broader array of self‐destructive behaviors.
Inferred Characteristics of Successful Suicides as Function of Gender and Context
Authors: Lewis Robin J. , Shepeard George
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: This paper examines college students' attributions about suicide as a function of gender and context (athletic vs. relationship failure). Results indicated that male athletes who suicided were considered more emotionally well‐adjusted compared to males who suicided because of a relationship failure and all females. Male and female athletes who suicided were seen as more competent and less distressed compared to those who suffered a failed relationship. Females were also seen as more distressed compared to males. These results are discussed in terms of a positive bias toward athletes in our society as well as gender stereotypes. Implications of these findings as well as methodological limitations are discussed.
The Impact of Epidemic, War, Prohibition and Media on Suicide: United States, 1910–1920
Authors: Wasserman Ira M.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: The paper utilizes a natural experiment approach to estimate the impact of exogenous social and political events on suicide behavior in the United States between 1910 and 1920. The study is concerned with determining the impact of World War I, the great Influenza Epidemic, and the prohibition experiment on suicide. Estimating the monthly population in the United States registration area from 1910 to 1920, monthly suicide and mortality rates are computed. A time‐series model is postulated, and second‐order autoregressive estimates are used to determine the impact of the independent variables in the model. It is concluded that World War I did not influence suicide; the Great Influenza Epidemic caused it to increase; and the continuing decline in alcohol consumption between 1910 and 1920 depressed national suicide rates. Further individual‐level aggregate studies are needed to confirm the findings of the study.
2 Epidemiology of Suicide in the Elderly
Authors: McIntosh John L.
Published: October 2023

Suicide rates in the United States and most other countries are higher among the elderly than among the population as a whole. Typically, rates peak in older adulthood. Epidemiological data for the current levels and trends in suicide among the elderly are presented with a focus on United States figures. Age, sex, race, marital status, and methods of suicide as factors in suicide among the old are detailed, followed by a discussion of past trends and future predictions of changes in elderly suicide rates. In addition to fatal suicidal behaviors, the data and literatures on parasuicide and survivors of elderly suicide are briefly noted.
4 Biology of Elderly Suicide
Authors: Rifai A. H. , Reynolds C. F. , Mann J. J.
Published: October 2023

Most studies of suicide in younger patients have demonstrated significant alterations in the serotonin system. Although a high percentage of completed suicides occur in late‐life, to date very few studies of the biology of suicide have focused on this age group. This chapter describes age‐related changes in the central nervous system pertinent to the biology of suicide, then reviews port‐mortem biological studies of the brains of suicides and suicide attempters. As suicide attempts in the elderly are characterized by the use of violent means, biologic studies of impulsive violence are discussed. Finally we describe data on the effect of degenerative diseases on the serotonin system and the possible link to increased suicidal behavior in affected patients. This review underscores the need for further study of the biology of suicide in the geriatric age group.
Youth Suicides Unknown to Psychiatric Care Providers
Authors: Runeson Bo Sigurd
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Less than 50% of young suicides have consulted psychiatric care providers. Thus the population not found within the psychiatric care sector is described in this paper. Fifty‐eight consecutive suicides among adolescents and young adults, studied by psychological autopsies, were classified according to presence or absence of previous psychiatric care. Fifteen of the sixteen subjects without previous care were males, six of these were diagnosed as having an adjustment disorder related to a recent event. Unemployment was less common (p < 0.01), the suicidal processes were shorter (p < 0.001), and previous parasuicide was less frequent (p < 0.001) among nonpatients. Evaluation in accordance with DSM‐III‐R criteria showed fewer substance abuse disorders (p < 0.01). Open suicidal communication prior to the suicide was less frequent but active methods were used by this population as often as by subjects known to care providers.
Generalist CEOs and conditional accounting conservatism
Authors: Hrazdil Karel , Liang Yi , Ruan Lufei , Song Hakjoon
Published: October 2023

Generalist chief executive officers (CEOs) have accumulated transferrable general skills by working in multiple firms or industries. Recent decades have witnessed an increasing demand for generalist CEOs, which has resulted in a favorable job market for them. Favorable outside job opportunities reduce generalist CEOs’ career concerns and increase their agency problems and risk‐taking incentives. We examine the relation between generalist CEOs and conditional conservatism. On the one hand, conditional conservatism could be positively associated with generalist CEOs because debtholders and shareholders often demand conservatism to alleviate heightened agency problems. On the other hand, a negative association could obtain because generalist CEOs can (1) create better information environments for firms, reduce information asymmetry and lessen stakeholders’ demand for conservatism and (2) have greater bargaining power and reduce the supply of conservatism. We document a positive association between generalist CEOs and conditional conservatism and show that the relationship is more pronounced in firms with a higher demand for conservatism. Our results are robust to a variety of sensitivity tests.
Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation ablation with a novel temperature‐controlled CF‐sensing catheter: Q‐FFICIENCY clinical and healthcare utilization benefits
Authors: Hussein Ayman A. , Delaughter M. Craig , Monir George , Natale Andrea , Dukkipati Srinivas , Oza Saumil , Daoud Emile , Di Biase Luigi , Mansour Moussa , Fishel Robert , Valderrabano Miguel , Ellenbogen Kenneth , Osorio Jose ,   the Q‐FFICIENCY investigators
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The prospective, nonrandomized, multicenter Q‐FFICIENCY study demonstrated the safety and 12‐month efficacy of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation with the novel QDOT MICRO temperature‐controlled, contact force‐sensing, radiofrequency (RF) catheter. Participants underwent pulmonary vein isolation with very high‐power short‐duration (vHPSD) mode (90 W, ≤4 s) alone or combined with conventional‐power temperature‐controlled (CPTC) mode (25–50 W). This study aimed to assess quality‐of‐life (QOL) and healthcare utilization (HCU) benefits experienced by Q‐FFICIENCY study participants.

Methods

Besides evaluating procedural efficiency, QOL and HCU were assessed through 12 months postablation via Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality‐of‐Life Tool (AFEQT) score, antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) use, and incidence of cardioversion and cardiovascular hospitalization.

Results

Of 191 participants enrolled, 166 were ablated with the new catheter. Compared to baseline, statistically significant, clinically meaningful improvements in composite and subcategories of AFEQT scores were observed at 3 months and sustained through 12 months (12‐month increase, 29.3–44.2 points). Class I/III AAD use decreased from 97.6% (162/166) at baseline to 19.6% (31/158) during Months 6–12, representing a significant 79.9% reduction. The cardioversion rate significantly declined by 93.9% from 31.3% (12 months preablation) to 1.9% (evaluation period). One‐year Kaplan–Meier estimates of freedom from all‐cause and cardiovascular hospitalization were 80.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 74.8%–86.9%) and 88.8% (95% CI, 84.0%–93.7%), respectively.

Conclusions

Paroxysmal AF ablation with the novel temperature‐controlled RF catheter in vHPSD mode, alone or with CPTC mode, led to clinically meaningful improvement in QOL and significant reduction in AAD use, cardioversion, and cardiovascular hospitalization.
RETRO‐mapping: A novel algorithm automating wavefront categorization using activation mapping during persistent atrial fibrillation demonstrates a reduction in wavefront collisions following pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Coyle Clare , Kanella Ilektra , Mann Ian , Qureshi Norman , Linton Nick W. F. , Kanagaratnam Prapa
Published: October 2023

RETRO‐mapping was developed to automate activation mapping of atrial fibrillation (AF). We used the algorithm to study the effect of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) on the frequency of focal, planar, and colliding wavefronts in persistent AF. An AFocusII catheter was placed on the left atrial endocardium to record 3 s of AF at six sites pre and post‐PVI in patients undergoing wide circumferential PVI for persistent AF. RETRO‐mapping analyzed each segment in 2 ms time windows for evidence of focal, planar, and colliding waveforms and the automated categorizations manually validated. Ten patients were recruited. A total of 360 s of data in 120 segments of 3 s from 60 left atrial locations were analyzed. RETRO‐map was highly effective at identifying focal waves and collisions during AF. PVI significantly reduced collision frequency but not focal and planar activation frequency. However, there was a significant reduction in the dispersion of activation directions. Larger studies may help determine factors associated with successful clinical outcome.