bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PLK4 drives centriole amplification and apical surface area expansion in multiciliated cells
Authors: LoMastro Gina M , Drown Chelsea G , Maryniak Aubrey L , Jewett Cayla E , Strong Margaret A , Holland Andrew J
Published: June 2022

Multiciliated cells (MCCs) are terminally differentiated epithelia that assemble multiple motile cilia used to promote fluid flow. To template these cilia, MCCs dramatically expand their centriole content during a process known as centriole amplification. In cycling cells, the master regulator of centriole assembly Polo-like kinase 4 (PLK4) is essential for centriole duplication; however recent work has questioned the role of PLK4 in centriole assembly in MCCs. To address this discrepancy, we created genetically engineered mouse models and demonstrated that both PLK4 protein and kinase activity are critical for centriole amplification in MCCs. Tracheal epithelial cells that fail centriole amplification accumulate large assemblies of centriole proteins and do not undergo apical surface area expansion. These results show that the initial stages of centriole assembly are conserved between cycling cells and MCCs and suggest that centriole amplification and surface area expansion are coordinated events.
Serum lipoproteins and lipoarabinomannan suppress the inflammatory response induced by the mycolactone toxin
Authors: Jakhar Shailja , Lenz Kiersten D. , Jacobsen Daniel E. , Kocheril Philip A. , Klosterman Katja E. , Mukundan Harshini , Kubicek-Sutherland Jessica Z.
Published: June 2022

Mycobacterium ulceransis the causative agent of the chronic and debilitating neglected tropical disease Buruli ulcer (BU) which mostly affects children. The early detection and treatment ofM. ulceransinfections can significantly minimize life-long disability resulting from surgical intervention. However, the disease is characterized by relatively few systemic systems as a result of complex host-pathogen interactions that have yet to be fully characterized, which has limited the development of both diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to treat BU. In this work, we study the interactions of the host immune system with two principleM. ulceransvirulence factors: mycolactone, an amphiphilic macrolide toxin, and lipoarabinomannan (LAM), a cell wall component of most mycobacterial pathogens. We observe that human lipoproteins have a profound effect on the interaction of both mycolactone and LAM with the immune system. Individually, both molecules are pro-inflammatory in the absence of serum and immunosuppressive in the presence of serum. When combined, mycolactone and LAM are immunosuppressive regardless of serum conditions. We also show that Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), a macrophage pathogen pattern recognition receptor, is critical for LAM immune stimulation but aids in mycolactone immunosuppression. These findings are a first step towards unraveling mycolactone-mediated immunosuppression during BU disease and may facilitate the development of effective diagnostics and therapeutics in the future.

Author Summary

Buruli ulcer (BU) is a neglected tropical disease caused by the pathogenMycobacterium ulcerans. The principal virulence factors associated with it are the macrolide toxin mycolactone and the major cell wall component lipoarabinomannan (LAM). Here, we examine the impact of the amphiphilic biochemistry of mycolactone and LAM on their interaction with the human immune system. We show that both mycolactone and LAM associate with serum lipoproteins, and that this association is critical for the immune evasion seen in early-stageM. ulceransinfections. In the absence of serum, mycolactone is pro-inflammatory. Immunosuppression occurs only in the presence of human serum lipoproteins. In the presence of LAM, mycolactone is immunosuppressive, regardless of serum conditions. Immunosuppression is a hallmark of BU disease, and understanding the mechanisms of this immunosuppression can support the development of effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
PCP and Septins govern the polarized organization of the actin cytoskeleton during convergent extension
Authors: Devitt Caitlin C , Weng Shinuo , Bejar-Padilla Vidal D , Alvarado José , Wallingford John B
Published: June 2022

Actin is generally required for cell movement but must be brought under the control of distinct developmental systems to drive specific morphogenetic processes, such as convergent extension (CE)1. This evolutionarily conserved collective cell movement elongates the body axis of all vertebrates and is governed by the Planar Cell Polarity (PCP) signaling system1,2. Here, we sought to understand the interplay of PCP and actin duringXenopusCE. Our data provide new insights into the organization and emergence of polarity in this network and reveal new roles for the actin organizing Septins3, thereby shedding light on the mechanisms by which developmental signaling systems exploit the ubiquitous machinery of cells to drive morphogenesis.
Integrating environmental DNA monitoring to inform eel (Anguilla anguilla) status in freshwaters at their easternmost range - A case study in Cyprus
Authors: Griffiths Nathan P. , Wright Rosalind M. , Hänfling Bernd , Bolland Jonathan D. , Drakou Katerina , Sellers Graham S. , Zogaris Stamatis , Tziortzis Iakovos , Dörflinger Gerald , Vasquez Marlen I.
Published: June 2022

Aim

Despite significant population declines and targeted EU regulations aimed at A. anguilla conservation, little attention has been given to their status at their easternmost range. This study applies wide scale integrated monitoring to uncover the present-day eel distribution in Cyprus’ inland freshwaters. These are subject to increasing pressures from water supply requirements and dam construction, as seen throughout the Mediterranean.

Location

Cyprus.

Methods

We applied environmental DNA metabarcoding of water samples to determine A. anguilla distribution in key freshwater catchments. In addition, we present this alongside ten years of electrofishing/netting data. Refuge traps were also deployed to establish the timing of glass eel recruitment. These outputs are used together, alongside knowledge of the overall fish community and barriers to connectivity, to provide eel conservation and policy insights.

Results

We confirm the presence of A. anguilla in Cyprus’ inland freshwaters, with recruitment occurring in March. Eel distribution is restricted to lower elevation areas, and is negatively associated with distance from coast and barriers to connectivity. Many barriers to connectivity are identified, though eels were detected in 2 reservoirs upstream of dams. The overall fish community varies between freshwater habitat types.

Main Conclusions

Eels are much more widespread in Cyprus than previously thought, yet mostly restricted to lowland intermittent systems. This makes for a case to reconsider the requirement for eel management plans. Environmental DNA based data collected in 2020 indicate that ‘present-day’ eel distribution is representative of 10-year survey trends. Suggesting that inland freshwaters may act as an unrealised refuge at A. anguilla’s easternmost range. Conservation efforts in Mediterranean freshwaters should focus on improving connectivity, therefore enabling eels to access inland perennial refugia. Thus, mitigating the impact of climate change and the growing number of fragmented artificially intermittent river systems.
Plasticity of transmembrane helix interactions in EphA2 dimers and oligomers
Authors: Wirth Daniel , Ozdemir Ece , Wimley William C. , Pasquale Elena B. , Hristova Kalina
Published: June 2022

Lateral interactions can stabilize different EphA2 receptor assemblies in the plasma membrane in response to different ligands. Here we use two fluorescent techniques, Forster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) and Fluorescence Intensity Fluctuations (FIF) spectrometry, to investigate how mutations in the EphA2 transmembrane (TM) helix affect the association between full-length EphA2 molecules in the absence of ligand and in the presence of three ligands: ephrinA1-Fc, m-ephrinA1, and the YSA peptide. The EphA2 mutations we studied have been previously characterized in the context of the isolated EphA2 TM helix. Working with full-length EphA2, we observed modest effects of the mutations on receptor-receptor interaction. Our data do not support the currently accepted model of a switch between two discrete TM helix dimerization motifs corresponding to active or inactive receptor states. Instead, we propose that different dimeric/oligomeric arrangements of the EphA2 extracellular region couple to an ensemble of TM helix dimer interfaces. Plasticity in the arrangements of receptor tyrosine kinase TM helices in active dimers and oligomers may serve to facilitate the cross-phosphorylation of multiple tyrosines in different positions of the intracellular regions.
Behavioral Phenotyping From deleted CB1 Receptors on Cholinergic Neuron Terminals
Authors: Wu S , Tsutsui K , Fitoussi AY
Published: June 2022

Marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug in the Western Hemisphere and affects physiological processes and cognition. Clear deficits are observed in working memory (WM) that involve the temporary storage and online manipulation of information to solve complex tasks. Marijuana-induced WM deficits have been ascribed to the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, which acts at CB1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1r). Recent work emphasized the role of CB1r and cholinergic interaction across this cognitive domain without formal anatomical demonstration. We generated mice with a conditional deletion of CB1r on cholinergic neuron terminals, and WM was evaluated in operant chambers. Control of physiological variables (temperature, nociception, neuromuscular function) was also performed, and additional motor, motivation, time estimation behavior, and effort-based decision-making. Discrete WM enhancement measured in a novel Delay-Non-Matching-To-Position task was evidenced that incorporates early acquisition during randomized delays (mixed procedure), and remarkably, improved performance when these (2s, 8s, 16s, 20s) were kept constant (same procedure) across a testing block of trials. We reported higher motivation in an exponential progressive ratio schedule whilst locomotor activity did not differ between genotypes in the rotarod and open field. However, timing behavior was modified as indicated by higher discriminated motor responses for the shortest interval in conditional deleted mice in the Fixed-Interval time task (10s, 30s). We reported no effect on effort-based decision-making. Our work outlines presynaptic CB1r-cholinergic neuron function(s), and the hippocampus, neocortex, and amygdala brain regions as critical loci through known basal forebrain efferent projections possibly involved in WM and motivation in marijuana intoxication.
Relative roles of genetic variation and phenotypic plasticity in the invasion of monkeyflower Erythranthre gutatta in New Zealand
Authors: Williamson Michelle , Gerhard Daniel , Hulme Philip , Chapman Hazel
Published: June 2022

Evolutionary processes which increase the probability of an introduced plant species becoming invasive include high levels of genetic diversity and phenotypic plasticity. Naturalised in New Zealand, monkeyflower, (Erythranthre gutatta), a clonally spreading herb of waterways and seepage areas native to the Western USA, shows marked variation in a range of vegetative, reproductive and inflorescence traits. We used two common gardens differing in elevation to explore the relative contribution of genetic versus plastic variation within nine traits among 34 monkeyflower clones from across the New Zealand South Island. We looked for evidence of clinal variation across elevation gradients and for home site advantage. We found both high genetic diversity and trait plasticity explain the observed variation, although less evidence for adaptive plasticity. Most genetic variation was observed in the lowland garden (9m a.s.l.), where the overall trend was for above ground dry weight to be lower, and horizontal shoot length greater, than at the montane garden (560m a.s.l). We found no evidence of local adaptation to any of the measured environmental variables. However, we observed a pattern of higher biomass and higher plasticity at lower versus higher elevations and in clones originating from lower elevation sites.
TANKBind: Trigonometry-Aware Neural NetworKs for Drug-Protein Binding Structure Prediction
Authors: Lu Wei , Wu Qifeng , Zhang Jixian , Rao Jiahua , Li Chengtao , Zheng Shuangjia
Published: June 2022

Illuminating interactions between proteins and small drug molecules is a longstanding challenge in the field of drug discovery. Despite the importance of understanding these interactions, most previous works are limited by hand-designed scoring functions and insufficient conformation sampling. The recently-proposed graph neural network-based methods provides alternatives to predict protein-ligand complex conformation in a one-shot manner. However, these methods neglect the geometric constraints of the complex structure and weaken the role of local functional regions. As a result, they might produce unreasonable conformations for challenging targets and generalize poorly to novel proteins. In this paper, we propose Trigonometry-Aware Neural networKs for binding structure prediction, TANKBind, that builds trigonometry constraint as a vigorous inductive bias into the model and explicitly attends to all possible binding sites for each protein by segmenting the whole protein into functional blocks. We construct novel contrastive losses with local region negative sampling to jointly optimize the binding interaction and affinity. Extensive experiments show substantial performance gains in comparison to state-of-the-art physics-based and deep learning-based methods on commonly-used benchmark datasets for both binding structure and affinity predictions with variant settings.
Quantitative proteomic analysis reveals apoE4-dependent phosphorylation of the actin-regulating protein VASP
Authors: Cakir Zeynep , Lord Samuel J. , Zhou Yuan , Jang Gwendolyn M. , Polacco Benjamin J. , Eckhardt Manon , Jimenez-Morales David , Newton Billy W. , Orr Adam L. , Johnson Jeffrey R. , da Cruz Alexandre , Mullins R. Dyche , Krogan Nevan J. , Mahley Robert W. , Swaney Danielle L.
Published: June 2022

Apolipoprotein (apo) E4 is the major genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). While neurons generally produce a minority of the apoE in the central nervous system, neuronal expression of apoE increases dramatically in response to stress and is sufficient to drive pathology. Currently, the molecular mechanisms of how apoE4 expression may regulate pathology are not fully understood. Here we expand upon our previous studies measuring the impact of apoE4 on protein abundance to include the analysis of protein phosphorylation and ubiquitylation signaling in isogenic Neuro-2a cells expressing apoE3 or apoE4. ApoE4 expression resulted in a dramatic increase in VASP S235 phosphorylation in a PKA-dependent manner. This phosphorylation disrupted VASP interactions with numerous actin cytoskeletal and microtubular proteins. Reduction of VASP S235 phosphorylation via PKA inhibition resulted in a significant increase in filopodia formation and neurite outgrowth in apoE4-expressing cells, exceeding levels observed in apoE3-expressing cells. Our results highlight the pronounced and diverse impact of apoE4 on multiple modes of protein regulation and identify protein targets to restore apoE4-related cytoskeletal defects.
Rapid binding to protofilament edge sites facilitates tip tracking of EB1 at growing microtubule plus-ends
Authors: Gonzalez Samuel J. , Goldblum Rebecca R. , Vu Katherine T. , Shoemaker Rachel , Reid Taylor , McClellan Mark , Gardner Melissa K.
Published: June 2022

EB1 is a key cellular protein that delivers critical regulatory molecules throughout the cell via the tip-tracking of growing microtubule plus-ends. Thus, it is important to understand the mechanism for how EB1 efficiently tracks growing microtubule plus-ends. It is widely accepted that EB1 binds with higher affinity to GTP-tubulin subunits at the growing microtubule tip, relative to GDP-tubulin along the microtubule length. However, it is unclear whether this difference in affinity alone is sufficient to explain the tip-tracking of EB1 at growing microtubule tips. Previously, we found that EB1 binds to exposed microtubule protofilament-edge sites at a ∼70-fold faster rate than to closed-lattice sites, due to diffusional steric hindrance to binding. Thus, we asked whether rapid protofilament-edge binding could contribute to efficient EB1 tip tracking. A computational simulation with differential EB1 on-rates based on closed-lattice or protofilament-edge binding, and with EB1 off-rates that were dependent on tubulin hydrolysis state, recapitulated experimental EB1 tip tracking. To test this model, we used cell-free biophysical assays, as well as live-cell imaging, in combination with the chemotherapy drug Eribulin. We found that Eribulin blocked EB1 protofilament-edge binding, which led to a dramatic decrease in EB1 tip tracking on dynamic microtubules. We conclude that rapid EB1 binding to microtubule protofilament-edge sites increases the efficiency of EB1 tip tracking at the growing microtubule plus end.
Chambers for Culturing and ImmobilizingXenopusEmbryos and Organotypic Explants for Live Imaging
Authors: Chu Chih-Wen , Davidson Lance A.
Published: June 2022

Live imaging ofXenopusembryos and organotypic explants can be challenging because of their large size and slippery nature. This protocol covers the preparation of special chambers for immobilizingXenopusembryos and embryonic explants for live-cell and tissue imaging. The opaque nature ofXenopusembryonic tissues enables simple bright-field imaging techniques for tracking surface movements across large regions. Such surface imaging of embryos or organotypic explants can directly reveal cell behaviors, obviating the need for complex postprocessing commonly required to extract this data from 3D confocal or light-sheet observations of more transparent embryos. Furthermore,Xenopusembryos may be filled with light-absorbing pigment granules and light-scattering yolk platelets, but these limitations are offset by the utilitarian nature ofXenopusorganotypic explants that expose and stabilize large embryonic cells in a nearly native context for high-resolution live-cell imaging. Additionally, whole embryos can be stabilized for long-term bright-field and confocal microscopy. Simple explants can be prepared using a single cell type, and organotypic explants can be prepared in which multiple tissue types are dissected while retaining native tissue–tissue interactions. These preparations enable both in-toto imaging of tissue dynamics and super-resolution imaging of protein dynamics within individual cells. We present detailed protocols for these methods together with references to applications.
Impact of improved indoor environment on recovery from COVID-19 infections: a review of literature
Authors: Afful Aba Essanowa , Osei Assibey Antwi Ama Darkwah Darkwah , Ayarkwa Joshua , Acquah Godwin Kojo Kumi
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore the impact of the indoor environment on recovery from COVID-19 infections. Extant literature on the impact of the four key themes of the indoor environment (indoor air quality, indoor thermal quality, daylighting and visual comfort, and acoustic comfort) on COVID-19 infection and recovery rates were reviewed.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection for this study was based on extant literature within the Scopus database and scoped to a time frame of 2020–2021 because the topical issue of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and its impact on COVID-19 arose in the wake of the pandemic. In total, 224 documents were systematically desk reviewed from various journals.

Findings

The study identified that air pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10 as well as air-conditioned places, low ambient temperatures, poor ventilation and no views of the outdoor environment were deteriorating factors for COVID-19 patients. On the other hand, proper ventilation, the use of air cleaners, views of the outdoor environment and allowance for ample daylighting were improvement factors for COVID-19 patients. The inter-relationship of the various concepts was presented in an ontology chart.

Practical implications

As COVID-19 still exists and keeps evolving, this study provides suggestions to industry professionals, especially health-care Facility Managers, to create a post-pandemic environment focusing on the IEQ and finding long-term and reliable solutions for the well-being of occupants. Adaptability is crucial. New, creative technology solutions are being introduced daily, but it is up to the facility managers and health-care professionals to analyse and specify the most cost- and outcome-effective technologies for their facility.

Originality/value

The study brought to light the pivotal role of the indoor environment on the health and well-being of occupants, particularly in the contraction, spread, prevention and control of infectious diseases such as COVID-19.
Climate change projections for Algeria: the 2030 water sector development strategy
Authors: Bouregaa Tarek
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The first aim of this study is to show the impact of global warming on temperature and precipitation changes in Algeria. The second objective is to exhibit the strategy planned by the country to mitigate these effects on water resources in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

This research assesses the expected changes in temperature, precipitation and SPEI index, over Algeria (16 weather stations), between two horizons (2030, 2050), by using an ensemble of 16 general circulation models under RCP2.6 and RCP8.5 scenarios.

Findings

More warming and drought will be experienced under RCP8.5 than RCP2.6 scenario. The highest warming is observed at the Southern stations. However, the lowest precipitation is projected in the western stations. The results of SPEI calculation indicate that the severity of drought spread progressively across time and space. The highest values were observed over 2050 with values varied between 0.15 and −2.08 under RCP2.6 scenario, and range from −0.73 to −2.63 under RCP8.5. These results indicate that Algeria is highly vulnerable to the impact of climate change on water resources, which stressed the need to develop a strategy against this situation.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first to simulate the future climate changes over 16 Algerian weather stations by using an average of 16 general circulation models data, under two RCP scenarios. This study shows the 2030 water development strategy to mitigate the effect of drought and water scarcity on different sectors.
The relationship between employer branding, corporate reputation and intention to apply to a job offer
Authors: Junça Silva Ana , Dias Herminia
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Employer branding is a topic that has gained relevance in the organisational world. Currently, organisations need to differentiate themselves, and one of their biggest challenges is the search and retention of talent. One of the factors that have been associated with attracting talent is employer branding. However, studies that explore the relationship between this, corporate reputation and the intention to apply for a job are scarce. As such, this study aims to analyse the mediating role of corporate reputation in the relationship between employer branding and the intention to apply for a job offer.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the goals, data were collected from 225 Portuguese adults. The response rate was 75%. Based on a survey, respondents reported their perceptions of employer branding of a specific organisation, and they rated the organisation’s reputation and their intention to apply to that organisation.

Findings

The results showed that employer branding (interest value; social value; economic value; development value; application value) positively influenced an organisation’s corporate reputation, which, in turn, increased an individual’s intention to apply for an employment offer in that organisation.

Originality/value

The present study is a contribution to the literature on employer branding, as it reinforced the importance that employer branding and corporate reputation play in the intention of applying for a job offer.
Fuzzy AHP approach for barriers to implement LSS in the context of Industry 4.0
Authors: Kumar Pramod , Brar Parvinder Singh , Singh Dharmendra , Bhamu Jaiprakash
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the present work is identification and prioritization of barriers to Lean Six Sigma (LSS) implementation in Indian manufacturing industries in the context of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) to surmount the impediments in the path of successful implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 27 barriers identified through critical review of literature and expert's opinion are evaluated with Cronbach's alpha values including item-total correlations or corrected item-total correlations (CITC) using statistical tool. Finally, 20 barriers were analyzed and ranked employing Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP).

Findings

The study depicts that “Lack of leadership, advisory and monitoring,” “Lack of clarity about economic benefits” and “Lack of integration of LSS with smart tools/I4.0” are potential barriers to drive the path for proper implementation of LSS in Industry 4.0 with due consideration of its technologies in Indian manufacturing industries.

Practical implications

The study provides better knowledge platform for academicians and researchers about hidden aspects of LSS implementation barriers in view of advanced manufacturing technologies. This research will help the practitioners to design their business plans in implementing new quality improvement tools to get advantage in current competitive environment.

Originality/value

The barriers are selected based on literature and opinion from industry and academic experts. Five major criteria are decided after incorporating inputs. The ranking of the barriers is attained by well standard mathematical technique. This will enable the practitioners to design strategies to eliminate the hindrances in order to shape the right path for effective implementation of LSS approach in view of advanced manufacturing technologies.
Antecedents of information sensitivity and willingness to provide
Authors: Kang Jun , Lan Jingyi , Yan Hongyan , Li Wen , Shi Xuemei
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the antecedents of mobile Internet users’ perception of information sensitivity (PIS) and willingness to provide personal information (WTP). It provides insights about how these antecedents influence users’ perceived information sensitivity and willingness to provide.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey of mobile Internet users was conducted in China, generating a total of 1,000 qualified responses for analysis.

Findings

Results reveal the differential effects of some major antecedents of mobile Internet users’ perceived information sensitivity and willingness to provide (individual disposition to value privacy, age, gender, app type and privacy concerns) and such impact vary across low-, medium- and high-privacy segments.

Originality/value

This study provides insights into the antecedents of mobile Internet users’ attitudes towards personal information privacy. It also extends the understanding of users’ perceived information sensitivity and willingness to provide such information comparatively among four countries.
Optimization of LB-PBF process parameters to achieve best relative density and surface roughness for Ti6Al4V samples: using NSGA-II algorithm
Authors: Panahizadeh Valiollah , Ghasemi Amir Hossein , Dadgar Asl Yaghoub , Davoudi Mohammadmahdi
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to study multiobjective genetic algorithm ability in determining the process parameter and postprocess condition that leads to maximum relative density (RD) and minimum surface roughness (Ra) simultaneously in the case of a Ti6Al4V sample process by laser beam powder bed fusion.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, the nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II is used to achieve situations that correspond to the highest RD and the lowest Ra together.

Findings

The results show that several situations cause achieving the best RD and optimum Ra. According to the Pareto frontal diagram, there are several choices in a close neighborhood, so that the best setup conditions found to be 102–105 watt for laser power followed by scanning speed of 623–630 mm/s, hatch space of 76–73 µm, scanning patter angle of 35°–45° and heat treatment temperature of 638–640°C.

Originality/value

Suitable selection of process parameters and postprocessing treatments lead to a significant reduction in time and cost.
Induction of labour involving an amniotomy: Waiting compared to immediate oxytocin
Authors: Thiele Clare Elizabeth , Beckmann Michael
Published: June 2022

During induction of labour (IOL), the optimal timing of oxytocin following amniotomy is unknown, with limited data to guide decision‐making. This study aimed to see whether a 2‐h delay after amniotomy before starting oxytocin during IOL reduced the use of oxytocin as well as other positive or negative impact. A propensity‐score‐matched cohort study assessed the maternal, neonatal and process outcomes of 1168 women (584 per group) comparing immediate oxytocin to a 2‐h delay (‘wait’) after amniotomy. Women who waited were significantly less likely to receive oxytocin (61.2 vs 100%, P < 0.001) but more likely to receive antibiotics (14.7 vs 10.3%, P = 0.021), to be delivered by caesarean section (20.0 vs 14.6%, P = 0.013) and to be exclusively breastfeeding during discharge (77.2 vs 71.2%, P = 0.019). These findings provide further information for women and caregivers regarding the risks and benefits of a short delay before starting oxytocin.
Early integration of palliative care for patients with haematological malignancies
Authors: Shaulov Adir , Aviv Ariel , Alcalde Jacqueline , Zimmermann Camilla
Published: June 2022

Early palliative care (EPC) significantly improves quality of life, symptoms, and satisfaction with care for patients with advanced cancer. International organizations have recognized and promoted the role of palliative care as a distinct specialty, advocating its involvement throughout the cancer trajectory. Although patients with haematologic malignancies (HMs) have a comparable symptom burden to patients with solid tumours, they face multiple barriers to EPC integration. In this review, we discuss these barriers, present updated evidence from clinical trials of EPC in HMs and propose models to support EPC integration into care for patients with HMs.
Weak edge effects on trees in Bornean rainforest remnants bordering oil palm
Authors: Anderson Jake A. , McClean Colin J. , Sim Sarah , Pettorelli Nathalie , Jelling Ahmad , Tangah Joseph , Hill Jane K.
Published: June 2022

Many tropical forests are dominated by edge habitat, with consequences for forest structure, carbon stocks, and biodiversity. However, edge effects are highly variable and context‐dependent, and are poorly quantified in oil palm landscapes. We studied edge effects in 10 lowland rainforest remnants bordering mature oil palm plantations on Borneo, by surveying 0.2 ha plots along transects running perpendicular to the forest edge (ten 1.6 km transects, 5‐6 plots per transect; 57 plots in total). We examined how edge proximity affected plot‐level forest structure (canopy cover, number and size of stems ≥10 cm diameter), aboveground carbon stocks, microclimate (air temperature and light intensity), and tree community composition and richness. The largest trees were significantly smaller (up to 21% reduced diameter) in plots near edges, and plot‐level carbon was up to 30% lower (model‐fitted average = 64.7 Mg ha−1 at 50 m from the edge, versus 92.3 Mg ha−1 at 1600 m), with the strongest effects within 300m of edges. However, these significant effects of edge proximity were relatively small in the context of existing variation, with distance‐from‐edge explaining <13% of the total variability in maximum tree size or carbon. In addition, there were generally no effects of edge proximity on any other component of forest structure, composition or diversity, and only a weak effect on microclimate. We conclude that limited edge effects in this system may reflect low structural contrast between forest and mature oil palm, and limited invasion of pioneer trees from plantations, which diminished edge influence in highly heterogeneous forest remnants.

Abstract in Malay is available with online material.
Dietary partitioning of six co‐occurring Ponto‐Caspian gobies in the Dnieper River basin
Authors: Didenko Alexander , Volikov Yuriy , Kruzhylina Svitlana , Gurbyk Alexander , Bielikova Olena
Published: June 2022

The diets and resource partitioning of six co‐occurring gobiids (Caucasian dwarf goby Knipowitschia caucasica; monkey goby, Neogobius fluviatilis; racer goby, Babka gymnotrachelus; round goby, Neogobius melanostomus; bighead goby, Ponticola kessleri; and western tubenose goby, Proterorhinus semilunaris) have been investigated in freshwater of the Dnieper River basin. The studied gobies were characterised by relatively similar generalised feeding strategies with the dominance of chironomid larvae in their diets, except Caucasian dwarf goby, the diet of which was dominated by copepods and cladocerans. The ontogenetic diet shift was clearly observed in all studied gobiids, except Caucasian dwarf gobies, adults of which had almost the same food spectrum as their juveniles. The highest diet overlaps were observed between monkey and racer gobies, and between monkey and round gobies. The lowest values of the diet overlap indices were recorded between Caucasian dwarf and round gobies, and between Caucasian dwarf and bighead gobies. Each studied goby species can be characterised by a unique set of features resulting in dietary partitioning such as consuming prey organisms inhabiting different microhabitats, different sizes, different spawning periods and ontogenetic diet shifts.
MiR‐199a‐3p in mouse bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell exosomes increases epithelial sodium channel expression in lung injury
Authors: Chen Lei , Hou Yapeng , Du Danni , Cui Yong , Nie Hongguang , Ding Yan
Published: June 2022

Acute lung injury (ALI) causes significant morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients, which often presents with extensive accumulation of activated inflammatory cells and diffused alveolar damage accompanied by oxidative stress. Exosomes are nanovesicles, which have notable anti‐inflammatory and repair properties, thus alleviating the symptoms of ALI. Epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is essential for the transepithelial absorption of Na+ and fluid from alveolar spaces. We studied the effects of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell exosomes (BMSC‐exo) on the apoptosis and protein expression of ENaC in primary mouse alveolar epithelial type 2 cells (AT 2 cells). Moreover, the change of miR‐199a‐3p in AT 2 cells was detected by qRT‐PCR, and we studied the regulation of miR‐199a‐3p on ENaC protein expression. Our results demonstrated that BMSC‐exo could not only improve viability and reduce apoptosis in AT 2 cells, but also enhance the expression of ENaC protein and miR‐199a‐3p. Meanwhile, the upregulation of miR‐199a‐3p resulted in increased expression of ENaC protein. In summary, the BMSC‐exo could participate in the regulation of ENaC through miR‐199a‐3p originated from BMSC‐exo, thereby providing a new pharmacological tool for the treatment of ALI.
Therapeutic potential for amyloid surface inhibitor: only amyloid‐β oligomers formed by secondary nucleation disrupt lipid membrane integrity
Authors: Tian Yao , Liu Jianbo , Yang Fadeng , Lian Chenshan , Zhang Huawei , Viles John H. , Li Zigang
Published: June 2022

Inhibition of amyloid‐β peptide (Aβ) aggregation is a promising therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease (AD), as Aβ aggregation is generally believed to trigger AD pathology. Pre‐fibril Aβ‐oligomers induce membrane disruption and are crucial to neurotoxicity. We have previously designed a short peptide called cyclic helical amyloid surface inhibitor (cHASI) that can selectively bind to the Aβ fibril surface. Here, we use cHASI to efficiently inhibit the surface‐catalysed secondary nucleation process of Aβ in a lipid membrane environment. By incubating Aβ monomers with lipid vesicles, we show that during the assembly of Aβ into amyloid fibrils, oligomers are formed that markedly disrupt the lipid bilayer. Remarkably, when Aβ monomers are incubated with cHASI, although Aβ forms amyloid fibrils via primary nucleation and elongation, this pathway to fibrils does not damage the lipid bilayer. This indicates that only oligomers produced during secondary surface nucleation disrupt membrane integrity. The protective effect of cHASI is confirmed by cytotoxicity assays. Our study highlights the therapeutic potential for inhibiting the secondary nucleation process in Aβ aggregation, rather than inhibiting all pathways to fibril formation.
Invasive and toxic cyanobacteria regulate allochthonous resource use and community niche width of reservoir zooplankton
Authors: Gao Xiaofei , Wang Wenping , Ndayishimiye Jean Claude , Govaert Lynn , Chen Huihuang , Jeppesen Erik , Xue Yuanyuan , Yu Xiaoqing , Yang Jun
Published: June 2022

Cyanobacterial dominance or blooms can influence ecosystem structure in reservoirs, yet there are only few studies of its effect on the resource use and trophic structure of zooplankton. We hypothesised that zooplankton traits would exhibit a strong response to the increase of invasive and toxic cyanobacteria.

We investigated the effect of an invasive bloom‐forming cyanobacterium Raphidiopsis raciborskii (formerly Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii) on zooplankton functional traits (e.g., growth, reproduction, allochthonous resource use and realised niche) through laboratory experiments and 3‐year field investigations in two subtropical reservoirs. The realised niche (i.e., resource and habitat use) was quantified using stable isotopes (termed isotopic niches).

We fed the cladoceran zooplankton Moina sp. with Scenedesmus obliquus (chlorophyte), R. raciborskii, and a mixture of S. obliquus and R. raciborskii in laboratory experiments. A diet of R. raciborskii alone depressed the growth and reproduction of Moina sp. compared to a diet of S. obliquus alone, but a mixture of S. obliquus and R. raciborskii greatly alleviated the inhibition effects caused by cyanobacteria.

Under natural field conditions, we did not find a strong inhibition effect of R. raciborskii dominance on the zooplankton, but a high biomass of R. raciborskii was associated with an increase (17%) in the relative allochthonous resource (terrestrially derived organic matter) use by cladocerans (but not for copepods), even though the chlorophyll‐a concentration increased from 17 μg/L in the non‐bloom period to 28 μg/L during periods of R. raciborskii dominance or blooms. Furthermore, a high biomass of R. raciborskii increased the contribution of inter‐taxa variation (taxa sorting) to the expanded isotopic niches of the zooplankton community.

Our study helps to clarify cyanobacteria‐zooplankton interactions and highlights the importance of cyanobacterial dominance or blooms in regulating cross‐ecosystem resource use and biogeochemical cycling mediated by zooplankton in aquatic ecosystems.
Efficient dermal delivery of ascorbic acid 2‐glucoside with photoacoustic waves
Authors: Melo‐Guímaro Sofia , Cardoso Renato , Paiva João Celso , Santos João , Melro Elodie , Arnaut Luís G. , Costa Pereira Jorge , Serpa Carlos
Published: June 2022

Objective

Ascorbic acid (i.e., vitamin C) is an important antioxidant present in skin. The protective role of vitamin C against photoaging motivated numerous attempts to promote its topical delivery, with a success limited by its chemical instability and poor skin permeability. Vitamin C precursors, such as ascorbic acid 2‐glucoside (AA2G), which are metabolized to vitamin C by enzymes present in the skin, solve the problem of stability but are limited by low skin permeability. We developed a 2% (w/v) gel formulation of AA2G application (viscosity 4.30 × 104 Pa.s, pH 5.94) and compared its passive dermal delivery with the delivery promoted by photoacoustic waves that transiently perturb the skin barrier.

Methods

Photoacoustic (PA) waves were generated by laser pulses absorbed by piezophotonic (light‐to‐pressure) transducers. Pig skin samples were exposed to the 2% AA2G formulation alone or combined with 5 min of PA waves. One hour later, AA2G was extracted from the skin and quantified by reverse‐phase HPLC. AA2G transdermal fluxes using Franz cells with 760 μm thick pig skin samples were also measured.

Results

Photoacoustic waves transiently enhanced skin permeability and increased dermal delivery of AA2G. AA2G was released from the formulation nearly quantitatively (92.6 ± 6.2%) in 24 h, showing a non‐Fickian behaviour controlled by diffusion and swelling. AA2G dermal delivery with exposure for 5 min to PA waves was compared with passive delivery to pig skin. PA waves increased the delivery of AA2G to the skin by a factor of 15‐fold with respect to passive delivery, as measured from skin extracts after 1 h of contact of the formulation with the skin.

Conclusion

Five minutes of exposure to PA waves is a safe and effective method to deliver large quantities of AA2G to the skin.
The effect of product category on customer motivation for customer engagement behaviour
Authors: Żyminkowska Katarzyna , Perek‐Białas Jolanta , Humenny Grzegorz
Published: June 2022

Recently, research on customer engagement behaviour (CEB) has rapidly developed. However, comparative studies on the motivational drivers of CEB across different product contexts are lacking. This study aims to understand the nature of customer motivation (CM) and investigate how its elements and impact on CEB differ between product settings (tangible vs. intangible and high involvement vs. low involvement). Based on surveys of 2080 consumers, this study validates CM for CEB as a construct comprising hedonic, normative, and gain dimensions. The findings highlight significant differences in the importance of hedonic and normative dimensions as affected by the product category. The findings of this study can help marketing and brand managers understand how they can improve their engagement strategies by stimulating motivation‐based CEB.
Dairy ingredients replaced with vegan alternatives: valorisation of ice cream
Authors: Anwar Saba , Baig Mirza Aziz , Syed Qamar Abbas , Shukat Rizwan , Arshad Mehwish , Asghar Hafiza Anam , Arshad Muhammad Kamran
Published: June 2022

With growing concerns of food fortification, dairy ingredient alternatives and waste management have risen the need for food manufacturers to review their recipes. Hence, this study was aimed to extract watermelon seed protein concentrates (WSPC) with ultrasonication and develop vegan ice cream with improved functional properties. Coconut fat and coconut milk were used as fat replacer and total solids source along with extract of WSPC substituting milk solids‐not‐fat (MSNF). Various functional properties of WSPC were assessed. Rheological, structural and sensory quality of vegan ice cream were comparable with standard dairy ice cream formulation. Melting resistance, viscosity and textural hardness were increased with increasing concentration of WSPC and found maximum in IC4 except overrun which was highest (62.02 ± 0.16) in IC0V. Whereas, protein, total solids and total soluble solids were highest in IC4 in contrast to fat and pH which was maximum in IC0D (9.96 ± 0.016) and IC0V (6.82 ± 0.01), respectively. All treatments were found acceptable but highly satisfactory sample, concerning sensory acceptability, was IC2 with 10% WSPC.
Non‐thermal processing of black carrot juice using ultrasound: Intensification of bioactive compounds and microbiological quality
Authors: Hasheminya Seyedeh‐Maryam , Dehghannya Jalal
Published: June 2022

Ultrasound is a developing technology used to enhance the quality properties of beverages. Influence of ultrasonic process (0, 4, 8 and 12 min at 24 kHz) on quality characteristics of non‐thermally produced black carrot juice throughout storing for 15 days at ambient temperature was investigated. An FTIR spectrophotometer was used to analyse chemical functional groups of the vegetable juice. Ultrasound increased phenolic content, ascorbic acid and antioxidant properties; however, pH, total soluble solids (°Brix), viscosity and turbidity of the samples under ultrasound treatment did not show significant changes. None of the samples showed a significant change in colour characteristics throughout storing. Also, microbial population of the specimens handled with ultrasound showed a considerable decrease. The FTIR diagram showed that the application of ultrasonic process intensified the peak of the compounds containing hydroxyl group (phenolic compounds). Also, scanning electron microscopy images showed a more irregular cell structure with more holes in the ultrasonically treated juices. Ultrasound could be deemed an emerging technology in beverage industries to enhance various quality characteristics of fruit juices using non‐thermal processing.
Effect of alternative hydrocolloids in gluten‐free chickpea pasta
Authors: Losano Richard Pedro , Steffolani María Eugenia , Barrera Gabriela Noel , León Alberto Edel
Published: June 2022

Legume pasta is a sustainable product that improves the nutritional quality of food pyramids. This study evaluates the use of alternative hydrocolloids in the production of gluten‐free chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) pasta. The cooking quality and the texture of chickpea pasta made with gledis (Gleditsia triacanthos) gum and brea (Cercidium praecox) gum were determined and compared to those actually used in the food industry. The pasta made with gledis and brea had similar physiochemical qualities as pasta made with xanthan gum and carboxy methylcellulose. The firmness achieved with gledis was higher than the other hydrocolloids. For further studies, a sensory analysis was done and sensorial attributes of pasta were similar in all samples. Pasta made with gledis was preferred. Alternative hydrocolloids can be used in the emerging gluten‐free pasta industry with the same cooking quality and texture as those actually used. The studies of these hydrocolloids should be extended to other food products.
Identification of a secretory heme‐binding protein from Nocardia seriolae involved in cell apoptosis
Authors: Wen Yiming , Kang Xu , Li Zhiyuan , Xia Liqun , Lu Yishan
Published: June 2022

According to the whole‐genome bioinformatics analysis, a heme‐binding protein from Nocardia seriolae (HBP) was found. HBP was predicted to be a bacterial secretory protein, located at mitochondrial membrane in eukaryotic cells and have a similar protein structure with the heme‐binding protein of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Rv0203. In this study, HBP was found to be a secretory protein and co‐localized with mitochondria in FHM cells. Quantitative analysis of mitochondrial membrane potential value, caspase‐3 activity, and transcription level of apoptosis‐related genes suggested that overexpression of HBP protein can induce cell apoptosis. In conclusion, HBP was a secretory protein which may target to mitochondria and involve in cell apoptosis in host cells. This research will promote the function study of HBP and deepen the comprehension of the virulence factors and pathogenic mechanisms of N. seriolae.