bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A clinicopathological description of COVID‐19‐induced chilblains (COVID‐toes) correlated with a published literature review
Authors: Kolivras Athanassios , Thompson Curtis , Pastushenko Ievgenia , Mathieu Marisa , Bruderer Pascal , de Vicq Marine , Feoli Francesco , Harag Saadia , Meiers Isabelle , Olemans Catherine , Sass Ursula , Dehavay Florence , Fakih Ali , Lam‐Hoai Xuan‐Lan , Marneffe Alice , Van De Borne Laura , Vandersleyen Valerie , Richert Bertrand
Published: July 2021

Background

The abundance of publications of COVID‐19‐induced chilblains has resulted in a confusing situation.

Methods

This is a prospective single‐institution study from 15 March to 13 May 2020. Thirty‐two patients received PCR nasopharyngeal swabs. Of these, 28 patients had a thoracic CT‐scan, 31 patients had blood and urine examinations, 24 patients had skin biopsies including immunohistochemical and direct immunofluorescence studies, and four patients had electron microscopy.

Results

COVID‐19‐induced chilblains are clinically and histopathologically identical to chilblains from other causes. Although intravascular thrombi are sometimes observed, no patient had a systemic coagulopathy or severe clinical course. The exhaustive clinical, radiological, and laboratory work‐up in this study ruled‐out other primary and secondary causes. Electron microscopy revealed rare, probable viral particles whose core and spikes measured from 120 to 133 nm within endothelium and eccrine glands in two cases.

Conclusion

This study provides further clinicopathologic evidence of COVID‐19‐related chilblains. Negative PCR and antibody tests do not rule‐out infection. Chilblains represent a good prognosis, occurring later in the disease course. No systemic coagulopathy was identified in any patient. Patients presenting with acral lesions should be isolated, and chilblains should be distinguished from thrombotic lesions (livedo racemosa, retiform purpura, or ischemic acral necrosis).
Isotopic response of labetalol‐associated lichen planus pemphigoides on an old radiation site: A case report
Authors: Rajaintharan Sandhya , Wu Yu‐Hung
Published: July 2021

Over the years, the occurrences of different types of skin disorders arising from radiation sites have been observed and studied. Examples include autoimmune blistering diseases such as pemphigus, pemphigoid, and interface or inflammatory reaction patterns such as lichen planus, lupus erythematosus, and Stevens‐Johnson syndrome. The phenomenon whereby a new skin disorder arises from a previously healed or irradiated site is called an isotopic response, described as a type of Koebner phenomenon. Ionizing radiation itself can profoundly affect the skin. Both early and late changes can present, which typify the progression of changes following irradiation of the skin. Herein, we report a rare case of labetalol‐associated lichen planus pemphigoides that occurred at the site treated with radiation for a soft tissue malignancy after 19 years as a result of an isotopic response. The rash was well‐controlled after therapy and kept a 4‐year remission. The same skin reaction recurred after the reintroduction of labetalol 4 years later.
Weak immunohistochemical expression of galectin‐3 near blisters in Hailey‐Hailey disease
Authors: Aghighi Maryam , Smoller Bruce R.
Published: July 2021

Background

Hailey‐Hailey disease (HHD) is an uncommon hereditary and benign skin condition characterized by blisters and erosions on intertriginous areas. It is related to a mutation of the ATP2C1 gene, which encodes a Ca2+ pump. It is characterized by multiple foci of skin acantholysis in the epidermis, with dyskeratosis and suprabasilar clefting. Galectin‐3 is a beta‐galactoside‐binding protein that has an essential role in cell‐to‐cell and cell‐to‐matrix adhesion. We assessed galectin‐3 immunohistochemical expression in HHD to explore its impact on the pathogenesis of this hereditary blistering disorder.

Method

In a retrospective study, seven specimens from seven patients diagnosed with HHD were stained with antibodies to galectin‐3. We evaluated the nuclear and cytoplasmic expression of galectin‐3, as well as the staining intensity around blisters and distant normal skin.

Results

We observed a significant decrease in cytoplasmic and nuclear expression of galectin‐3 as well as stain intensity around blisters compared with distant normal skin.

Conclusions

While the acantholysis process in HHD is related to abnormality in cadherin expression caused by altered Ca2+ pump concentration, lower expression of galectin‐3 may cause the extension of blisters by initiating cell‐to‐cell disassembly in the epidermis.
Toning up but powering down: does mitochondrial dysfunction lead to loss of ambulation in cerebral palsy?
Authors: McFarland Robert
Published: July 2021

This commentary is on the original articles by Dayanidhi et al. and von Walden et al. on pages 1194–1203 and 1204–1212 of this issue.
Association of executive function problems and disordered eating behaviours in teens with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Cecilia‐Costa Raquel , Hansmann Merel , McGill Dayna E. , Volkening Lisa K. , Laffel Lori M.
Published: July 2021

Aim

To explore cross‐sectional associations between executive function problems and disordered eating behaviours in teens with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Executive function was assessed by the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF), self‐report and parent proxy‐report versions. Scores ≥60 (on Global Executive Composite, Behavioral Regulation Index, Metacognition Index or clinical scales) indicated problems with executive function. Disordered eating behaviour was assessed by the Diabetes Eating Problem Survey Revised (DEPS‐R) and categorized as follows: <10 low, 10–19 moderate and ≥20 high.

Results

In the 169 teens (46% girls, median age 16.0 years [range 13.7–18.7], median diabetes duration 8.9 years [range 1.4–16.6]), 29% had moderate and 12% had high level of disordered eating behaviours. Executive function problems were present in 9% by self report and 26% by parent proxy‐report. Among teens with moderate/high level of disordered eating behaviours, 19% had executive function problems by self report (vs. 2% of teens with low level of disordered eating behaviours, p < 0.001) and 33% had executive function problems by parent proxy‐report (vs. 20% of teens with low level of disordered eating behaviours, p = 0.056). A greater level of disordered eating behaviours was associated with executive function problems by teen self report on the General Executive Composite (p < 0.001), Behavioral Regulation Index (p < 0.001), emotional control clinical scale (p < 0.001), shift clinical scale (p < 0.001) and by parent proxy‐report on the task initiation clinical scale (p = 0.008).

Conclusions

Assessing executive function and screening for disordered eating behaviours in teens with type 1 diabetes could help identify a subset of teens at high risk for adverse outcomes and need for intervention.
Dopamine D1 receptor‐expressing neurons activity is essential for locomotor and sensitizing effects of a single injection of cocaine
Authors: Nakamura Yukari , Longueville Sophie , Nishi Akinori , Hervé Denis , Girault Jean‐Antoine , Nakamura Yuki
Published: July 2021

Dopamine D1 receptors play an important role in the effects of cocaine. Here, we investigated the role of neurons which express these receptors (D1‐neurons) in the acute locomotor effects of cocaine and the locomotor sensitization observed after a second injection of this drug, using the previously established two‐injection protocol of sensitization. We inhibited D1‐neurons using double transgenic mice conditionally expressing the inhibitory Gi‐coupled designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drugs (Gi‐DREADD) in D1‐neurons. Chemogenetic inhibition of D1‐neurons by a low dose of clozapine (0.1 mg/kg) decreased the cocaine‐induced expression of Fos in striatal neurons. It diminished the basal locomotor activity and acute hyper‐locomotion induced by cocaine (20 mg/kg). Clozapine 0.1 mg/kg had no effect by itself and did not alter cocaine effects in wild‐type mice. Inhibition of D1‐neurons during the first cocaine administration prevented the sensitization of the locomotor response in response to a second cocaine administration 10 days later. On Day 11, inhibition of D1‐neurons by clozapine stimulation of Gi‐DREADD blocked cocaine‐induced locomotion including in sensitized mice, whereas on Day 12, in the absence of clozapine and D1‐neurons inhibition, all mice displayed a sensitized response to cocaine. These results show that chemogenetic inhibition of D1‐neurons decreases spontaneous and cocaine‐induced locomotor activity. It prevents sensitization induction and blocks sensitized locomotion in a two‐injection protocol of sensitization but does not reverse established sensitization. Our study further supports the central role of D1‐neurons in mediating the acute locomotor effects of cocaine and its sensitization.
Applying CCB to predict management change affected long‐term SOM turnover of the Extended Static Fertilization Experiment in Bad Lauchstädt
Authors: Franko Uwe , Diel Julius , Ruehlmann Joerg
Published: July 2021

Long‐term field experiments (LTEs) are invaluable in improving understanding of soil organic matter (SOM) turnover, as some of the involved processes have proceeded over centuries. Prediction of such slow carbon fluxes depends especially on the initialization of slow‐reacting model pools and requires monitoring for a very long time for evaluation. This study reports soil organic matter (SOM) modelling covering more than 100 years for a dataset of 36 treatments of the “Extended Static Experiment” that is based on the classical “Static Experiment Bad Lauchstädt.” The experimental scheme includes different fertilization treatments where the plots are arranged in two field stripes. A special feature of this experiment is the management change for each stripe after seven decades of continuous cultivation that includes a considerable alteration of organic amendments on different SOM levels. The Candy Carbon Balance (CCB) model was calibrated for soil organic carbon (SOC) dynamics regarding initial SOC content and one parameter describing the physical protection of SOM. Calibration was performed for each plot individually, for each stripe, and for the whole experiment, resulting in a relative root mean square error (rRMSE, (−)) of 0.050, 0.058 and 0.064, respectively. Model predictions for soil organic nitrogen (SON) dynamics were satisfactory using the calibration results for SOC and the average C/N ratio from all observations within this dataset (11.8) for model initialization. The model error for SON prediction reached from rRMSE = 0.09 (whole experiment) over rRMSE = 0.085 (each stripe) to rRMSE = 0.084 (each plot). Calibration results suggest some heterogeneity between the two field stripes. Restarting the model after the management change in 1978 using the plot‐specific calculated SOC value from previous simulations for the whole time period provided different results of predicted SOC trends and values, suggesting that the precondition of SOM in steady state was still not fulfilled after seven decades.

Highlights

SOC and SON were modelled for 36 treatments over more than one century.

Model restarts after seven decades indicated that SOM pools were not in steady state.

Modelling SON required only an additional input of the average C/N ratio of SOM

Effect of serious fertilization changes can be well predicted by the tested model setup
Changes in epileptogenicity biomarkers after stereotactic thermocoagulation
Authors: Contento Margherita , Pizzo Francesca , López‐Madrona Víctor J. , Lagarde Stanislas , Makhalova Julia , Trébuchon Agnes , Medina Villalon Samuel , Giusiano Bernard , Scavarda Didier , Carron Romain , Roehri Nicolas , Bénar Christian‐George , Bartolomei Fabrice
Published: July 2021

Objective

Stereo‐electroencephalography (SEEG)‐guided radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RF‐TC) aims at modifying epileptogenic networks to reduce seizure frequency. High‐frequency oscillations (HFOs), spikes, and cross‐rate are quantifiable epileptogenic biomarkers. In this study, we sought to evaluate, using SEEG signals recorded before and after thermocoagulation, whether a variation in these markers is related to the therapeutic effect of this procedure and to the outcome of surgery.

Methods

Interictal segments of SEEG signals were analyzed in 38 patients during presurgical evaluation. We used an automatized method to quantify the rate of spikes, rate of HFOs, and cross‐rate (a measure combining spikes and HFOs) before and after thermocoagulation. We analyzed the differences both at an individual level with a surrogate approach and at a group level with analysis of variance. We then evaluated the correlation between these variations and the clinical response to RF‐TC and to subsequent resective surgery.

Results

After thermocoagulation, 19 patients showed a clinical improvement. At the individual level, clinically improved patients more frequently had a reduction in spikes and cross‐rate in the epileptogenic zone than patients without clinical improvement (p = .002, p = .02). At a group level, there was a greater decrease of HFOs in epileptogenic and thermocoagulated zones in patients with clinical improvement (p < .05) compared to those with no clinical benefit. Eventually, a significant decrease of all the markers after RF‐TC was found in patients with a favorable outcome of resective surgery (spikes, p = .026; HFOs, p = .03; cross‐rate, p = .03).

Significance

Quantified changes in the rate of spikes, rate of HFOs, and cross‐rate can be observed after thermocoagulation, and the reduction of these markers correlates with a favorable clinical outcome after RF‐TC and with successful resective surgery. This may suggest that interictal biomarker modifications after RF‐TC can be clinically used to predict the effectiveness of the thermocoagulation procedure and the outcome of resective surgery.
Polymerization power: effectors of actin polymerization as regulators of T lymphocyte migration through complex environments
Authors: Thompson Scott B. , Waldman Monique M. , Jacobelli Jordan
Published: July 2021

During their life span, T cells are tasked with patrolling the body for potential pathogens. To do so, T cells migrate through numerous distinct anatomical sites and tissue environments with different biophysical characteristics. To migrate through these different environments, T cells use various motility strategies that rely on actin network remodeling to generate shape changes and mechanical forces. In this review, we initially discuss the migratory journey of T cells and then cover the actin polymerization effectors at play in T cells, and finally, we focus on the function of these effectors of actin cytoskeleton remodeling in mediating T‐cell migration through diverse tissue environments. Specifically, we will discuss the current state of the field pertaining to our understanding of the roles in T‐cell migration played by members of the three main families of actin polymerization machinery: the Arp2/3 complex; formin proteins; and Ena/VASP proteins.
Theoretical modeling and neritic monitoring of loggerhead Caretta caretta [Linnaeus, 1758] sea turtle sex ratio in the southeast United States do not substantiate fears of a male‐limited population
Authors: Arendt Michael D. , Schwenter Jeffrey A. , Owens David W. , Valverde Roldán A.
Published: July 2021

Sea turtles are among several hundred species whose sex is determined by incubation conditions during critical developmental periods. Consequently, these marine reptiles may be vulnerable to global climate change, and under the assumption of continued climate warming, numerous studies pose dire predictions for future populations based primarily on hatchling sex ratio data. Alternatively, as long‐lived species that take decades to reach maturity, without inherent coping mechanisms for such change, sea turtles could not have persisted across geological epochs. Globally, loggerhead Caretta caretta [Linnaeus, 1758] sea turtles occupy temperate zones, with ontogenetic development that spans the entirety of gyres associated with respective ocean basins. The largest rookery for this species occurs in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean (NWA) population, where a 30‐year cycle in annual nest counts is reported through 2018. Complementary studies document a lagged association between these annual nest counts and the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO); however, the underlying mechanism for this association remains elusive. Therefore, objective 1 evaluated the effect of AMO‐mediated cohort resonance on the demographic structure of a theoretical neritic assemblage under variable cohort abundance and female proportion but stable annual survival during 165‐year runs (i.e., extent of AMO data). For objective 2, blood samples were used to assign sex to 2217 loggerhead sea turtles captured by research trawling (2000 to 2019) on the inner continental shelf from St. Augustine, FL (29.9°N) to Winyah Bay, SC (33.1°N). Shorter oceanic duration of less female‐biased cohorts from the AMO cold phase synchronized peak adult male and adult female co‐occurrence during subsequent warm phases three decades later. Grand sex ratio predicted from testosterone was 67% female (n = 1484), with a slight temporal female decline. Our findings suggest greater population sex ratio plasticity than predicted solely from terrestrial nesting data.
High regional and intrageneric variation in susceptibility to mass bleaching in Indo‐Pacific coral species
Authors: Muir Paul R. , Done Terence , Aguirre J. David
Published: July 2021

Aim

We investigate how susceptibility to mass bleaching varies between closely related coral species, and the validity of applying these susceptibility data (at the appropriate taxonomic level) across geographical regions. We also conduct a preliminary analysis of factors likely to affect geographical variability and examine which data are required for adequate assessment of the risk to species and regional populations from repeated mass bleaching events.

Location

Twenty‐two sites in the central Great Barrier Reef, Australia (GBR) and 30 sites in the central Maldives Archipelago (MA).

Time period

2002 for the GBR and 2016 for the MA.

Major taxa studied

Corals (order Scleractinia).

Methods

After marine heat‐wave conditions, timed in situ surveys recorded bleaching responses of 7,368 coral colonies exposed to similar levels of temperature stress at a similar depth of occurrence and with similar subsequent mortality. In each region, a separate phylogenetic mixed model was used to estimate deep‐time phylogenetic‐, contemporary‐ (indicative of recent adaptation/acclimatization) and local‐scale effects. The results were compared between regions in relative terms as a hierarchy of species susceptibilities.

Results

Susceptibility varied widely between regions: 27 of 106 species analysed were in the same quartile for relative susceptibility in both regions. Closely related species varied widely in their individual susceptibilities. Phylogenetic effects were moderate in both regions, but greater contemporary effects in the MA suggested recent evolution and acclimatization, consistent with a stronger history of recent bleaching events.

Main conclusions

The high regional and intrageneric variation in susceptibility to bleaching described here suggests that there might be important differences in the extent to which these Indian and Pacific Ocean coral populations are exhibiting responses to deep‐time evolutionary changes, on the one hand, versus recent adaptation, on the other. We reveal a concerning lack of regional‐scale data identifying species most at risk from this, the greatest current threat to coral reefs.
Fertility treatment and organizational discourses of the non‐reproductive female body
Authors: Cervi Lucia , Brewis Joanna
Published: July 2021

This paper contributes to debates on the intersections between organizations, the body, and reproduction by exploring how the non‐reproductive female body is discursively (re)constructed by organizations which provide fertility treatment, such as private clinics and fertility magazines. Organization studies has neglected the non‐reproductive body, despite a fair amount of research on its reproductive counterpart, especially pregnant and maternal bodies. Equally, these discussions privilege the employment relationship – for example, how women are enjoined to manage their bodies at work – whereas we concentrate on the marketplace, or the field of fertility treatment, and the organizations therein. These organizations, while focused on reproducing bodies, also influence, compound, and challenge notions of the bodies they are involved with. Through a Critical Discourse Analysis of texts produced by UK fertility organizations, we present three discourses of the non‐reproductive female body that (re)generate subject positions where the absence of reproduction is a medical condition, an emotionally distressing experience, and something that needs to be cared for. Our argument suggests how the texts can operate as a form of Foucauldian governmental biopower, emphasizing how they hail the infertile female subject.
Novel strategies for the early diagnosis of hepatitis B virus reactivation
Authors: Inoue Takako , Matsui Takeshi , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: July 2021

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation under systemic chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy is a serious complication among HBV‐resolved patients. Some medications, such as more than 2 weeks of corticosteroid therapy, can influence HBV reactivation; therefore, screening tests that measure hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B core antibody, and hepatitis B surface antibody before therapy are required. Additionally, because HBV reactivation has been reported in patients positive for HBsAg treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), the prophylactic administration of nucleos(t)ide analogues prior to administering ICIs is recommended for HBsAg‐positive patients. Under these circumstances, highly sensitive novel biomarkers are expected to be used for the early diagnosis of HBV reactivation. A fully automated high‐sensitivity HBsAg assay (detection limit: 5 mIU/ml) by Lumipulse HBsAg‐HQ, with 10‐fold higher sensitivity than that of conventional assays, is currently used. Furthermore, ultra‐sensitive HBsAg assays using a semi‐automated immune complex transfer chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay (ICT‐CLEIA; detection limit: 0.5 mIU/ml) have been developed. Recently, a fully automated, novel high‐sensitivity hepatitis B core‐related antigen assay (iTACT‐HBcrAg; cut‐off value: 2.1 Log U/mL) has been developed and reported. The utility of ICT‐CLEIA and iTACT‐HBcrAg for the diagnosis of HBV reactivation appears comparable to the use of HBV DNA. In this review, we provide the latest information related to medications that influence HBV reactivation and recently developed novel biomarkers that predict and monitor HBV reactivation.
Information specialists and researchers working together for health promotion: Benefits from school‐work educational programmes at the National Institute of Health in Italy
Authors: De Castro Paola , Salinetti Sandra , Barbaro Maria Cristina , Ambrosini Elena , Felicetti Federica , Monterosso Davide , Sorrentino Eugenio , Agresti Cristina
Published: July 2021

In 2015, the Italian Ministry of Education in Italy launched innovative upper school educational programmes envisaging school‐work initiatives. In this framework, the National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità, ISS) was among the first scientific institutions to develop educational programmes with school. Involving school students in health research activities allowed health literacy improvement, acquisition of scientific communication skills and fostered student interest in science careers. This article focuses on how health literacy and health promotion can be taught to school students through taking part in this programme. It is a multi‐disciplinary collaboration among different stakeholders—ISS tutors (researchers, information and communication experts), teachers and students. This collaborative initiative is a good example of ‘teaching and learning’ in action since all stakeholders could benefit from cross‐fertilisation in an informal educational context.
PRRX1–NCOA1‐rearranged fibroblastic tumour: a clinicopathological, immunohistochemical and molecular genetic study of six cases of a potentially under‐recognised, distinctive mesenchymal tumour
Authors: Dermawan Josephine K , Azzato Elizabeth M , Jebastin Thangaiah Judith , Gjorgova‐Gjeorgievski Sandra , Rubin Brian P , Folpe Andrew L , Agaimy Abbas , Fritchie Karen J
Published: July 2021

Aims

PRRX1–NCOA1‐rearranged fibroblastic tumour is a recently described, rare mesenchymal tumour. Only four cases have been previously reported. The aim of this article is to report six additional cases of this unusual mesenchymal neoplasm, with an emphasis on its differential diagnosis.

Methods and results

The six cases were from three females and three males (age, 20–49 years; median, 42 years). Three tumours were located on the abdominal wall; two from the shoulder/axillary areas, and one on the lateral hip. All presented as slow‐growing subcutaneous nodules, ranging from 26 to 55 mm (median, 40 mm). The tumours consisted of circumscribed, variably cellular nodules composed of relatively bland plump spindled to epithelioid cells arranged singly, in cords, and occasionally in nests, embedded in hyalinised and collagenous stroma. Small hypocellular myxoid zones with ropey collagen fibres were present, as were irregularly dilated, gaping, crescent‐shaped or staghorn‐like thin‐walled vessels, best appreciated at the periphery. Immunohistochemistry for CD34, S100, MUC4 and STAT6 was consistently negative. RNA‐sequencing revealed PRRX1–NCOA1 fusions in all cases. Of the four cases with limited follow‐up (1.5–4 months), none recurred following local surgical excision.

Conclusions

The morphological features of PRRX1–NCOA1‐rearranged fibroblastic tumour overlap with those of RB1‐deficient soft‐tissue tumours, solitary fibrous tumour, and low‐grade fibromyxoid sarcoma/sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma. This differential diagnosis can be resolved with a combination of careful morphological study and the application of a panel of immunostains, although molecular genetic study is most definitive. The natural history of PRRX1–NCOA1‐rearranged fibroblastic tumour appears to be quite favourable, although longer‐term study of a larger number of cases is warranted.
Speciation of the cold‐adapted scorpionfly Cerapanorpa brevicornis (Mecoptera: Panorpidae) via interglacial refugia
Authors: Gao Kai , Hua Yuan , Xing Lian‐Xi , Hua Bao‐Zhen
Published: July 2021

Pleistocene climate changes played a significant role in the speciation of temperate insects. Cold‐adapted species responding to past climatic events, however, remain rarely investigated in most groups of insects.

We assessed the evolutionary history and speciation of the cold‐adapted scorpionfly Cerapanorpa brevicornis (Hua and Li), endemic to the Qinling–Bashan Mountains and adjacent regions (QBMARs), based on one nuclear and three mitochondrial DNA gene markers.

Two distinctly divergent lineages were found in C. brevicornis dating back to 0.56 Ma, approximately coinciding with the extra‐long interglaciation (0.48–0.62 Ma) during the middle Pleistocene. Lineage I is widely distributed in the QBMARs, and Lineage II is confined to the ‘sky islands’ of the eastern Bashan Mountains (EBMs). The patch of ‘alpine archipelagos’ in the EBMs seems to function as interglacial microrefugia. In contrast, interglacial macrorefugia are located in the Qinling Mountains.

These findings may highlight the essential role of postglacial warming in the speciation and generation of neo‐endemic species through range contraction in cold‐adapted species and may provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying the high endemism and species richness in the QBMARs.

This study suggests that Lineage II can be treated as a good species acting as an indicator of climate change, and the ‘sky islands’ of the EBMs might be a high‐priority region for alpine biodiversity conservation under global warming.
Combinations of peptides synergistically activate the regenerative capacity of skin cells in vitro
Authors: Flagler Michael J. , Tamura Makio , Laughlin Tim , Hartman Scott , Ashe Julie , Adams Rachel , Kozak Kim , Cresswell Kellen , Mullins Lisa , Jarrold Bradley B. , Isfort Robert J. , Sherrill Joseph D.
Published: July 2021

Objective

To explore synergistic effects related to skin regeneration, peptides with distinct biological mechanisms of action were evaluated in combination with different skin cell lines in the presence or absence of niacinamide (Nam). Furthermore, the synergistic responses of peptide combinations on global gene expression were compared with the changes that occur with fractional laser resurfacing treatment, a gold standard approach for skin rejuvenation, to further define optimal peptide combinations.

Methods

Microarray profiling was used to characterize the biological responses of peptide combinations (+/− Nam) relative to the individual components in epidermal keratinocyte and dermal fibroblast cell lines. Cellular functional assays were utilized to confirm the synergistic effects of peptide combinations. Bioinformatics approaches were used to link the synergistic effects of peptide combinations on gene expression to the transcriptomics of the skin rejuvenation response from fractional laser treatment.

Results

Microarray analysis of skin cells treated with peptide combinations revealed synergistic changes in gene expression compared with individual peptide controls. Bioinformatic analysis of synergy genes in keratinocytes revealed the activation of NRF2‐mediated oxidative stress responses by a combination of Ac‐PPYL, Pal‐KTTKS and Nam. Additional analysis revealed direct downstream transcriptional targets of NRF2/ARE exhibiting synergistic regulation by this combination of materials, which was corroborated by a cellular reporter assay. NRF2‐mediated oxidative stress response pathways were also found to be activated in the transcriptomics of the early skin rejuvenation response to fractional laser treatment, suggesting the importance of this biology in the early stages of tissue repair. Additionally, the second combination of peptides (pal‐KT and Ac‐PPYL) was found to synergistically restore cellular ATP levels that had been depleted due to the presence of ROS, indicating an additional mechanism, whereby peptide synergies may accelerate skin repair.

Conclusion

Through combinatorial synergy studies, we have identified additional in vitro skin repair mechanisms beyond the previously described functions of individual peptides and correlated these to the transcriptomics of the skin rejuvenation response of fractional laser treatment. These findings suggest that specific peptides can act together, via complementary and synergistic mechanisms, to holistically enhance the regenerative capacity of in vitro skin cells.
What's in a message: A systemic functional analysis of cancer prevention messages
Authors: Jerome Collin , Ting Su‐Hie
Published: July 2021

This article provides some insights on how a particular reading from a theoretical framework can bring out details and problems with health communication posters. Using Michael Halliday's Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) framework, the article examines cancer prevention messages in cancer posters produced by the Ministry of Health Malaysia. The analysis shows that the posters organize and convey their intended messages through the realization of the three strands of meaning or metafunctions—the ideational, the interpersonal, and the textual—by drawing on the grammatical resources of the language used. Such meanings are created and expressed throughout the three main sections of the posters; the heading, the body of the text, and the signature line. Despite its practical limitations in particular linguistic contexts, the article shows that SFL is a useful tool for the analysis of Malaysia's cancer posters and how it can potentially provide a more nuanced understanding of the country's ongoing health risk communication initiatives.
Extraction and characterisation of pectin polysaccharide from soybean dreg and its dispersion stability in acidified milk drink
Authors: Zhang Dai‐Yu , Qi Jun‐Ru , Jiang Wen‐Xin , Liao Jin‐Song , Yang Xiao‐Quan
Published: July 2021

In this study, pectin polysaccharide (SDPP) was obtained from soybean dreg (26.2% yield), and characteristics of SDPP were compared with those of soybean soluble polysaccharides (SSPS) and citrus pectin (HMP). The galacturonic acid and molecular weight of SSPS, SDPP or HMP were 11.8%, 40.6% or 70.2% and 112, 446, or 440 kDa. SDPP had similar viscosity and protein content to SSPS, and functional groups and linear structure to HMP. SSPS, SDPP or HMP differed in particle size of 260, 467 or 1195 nm and ζ–potential of −5.8, −14.6 or −23.5 mV at pH 4.0. The precipitation of acidified milk drink (AMD) was 6.31% without stabiliser or below 1.75% with 0.4% SDPP at pH 3.6–4.6. These results suggested that SDPP combines the structure and characteristic of HMP and SSPS, and AMD with SDPP had great stabilising behaviour at wider pH range (pH 3.6–4.6).
Gender and COVID‐19: Workers in global value chains
Authors: TEJANI Sheba , FUKUDA‐PARR Sakiko
Published: July 2021

This article presents a framework to analyse the gendered impact of COVID‐19 on workers in global value chains (GVCs) in the business process outsourcing, garment and electronics industries. Distinguishing between the health and lockdown effects of the pandemic, and between its supply‐ and demand‐related impacts, the authors' gendered analysis focuses on multidimensional aspects of well‐being, understands the economy as encompassing production and social reproduction spheres, and examines the social norms and structures of power that produce gender inequalities. Their findings suggest that the pandemic exposes and amplifies the existing vulnerabilities of women workers in GVCs.
Macrophages of different tissue origin exhibit distinct inflammatory responses to mycobacterial infection
Authors: Stevens Maxwell T , Nagaria Beatrice D , Britton Warwick J , Saunders Bernadette M
Published: July 2021

Macrophages display marked plasticity with functions in both inflammation and tissue repair. Evidence demonstrates that this spectrum of macrophage phenotypes is influenced by their local microenvironment and tissue origin. However, in vitro macrophage experiments often do not or cannot readily use macrophages from the most relevant tissue of origin. This study investigated if the origin of two C57BL/6 mouse macrophage cell lines of alveolar (AMJ2‐C11) and peritoneal (IC‐21) origin may influence their response to mycobacterial infection. Both cell lines equally controlled the growth of Mycobacterium bovis BCG and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, although the expression of all proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines measured (TNF, IL‐6, MCP‐1, MIP‐1α, MIP‐1β, and RANTES) was significantly higher in AMJ2‐C11 cells than in IC‐21 cells. During M. tuberculosis infection, IL‐6, MCP‐1, and RANTES expression increased 5‐fold, and MIP‐1β expression increased 30‐fold. Additionally, AMJ2‐C11 cells exhibited significantly higher inducible nitric oxide synthase activity than IC‐21 cells, indicative of a more polarized M1 response. The expression of multiple surface markers was also assessed by flow cytometry. CD80 and CD86 were significantly upregulated in AMJ2‐C11 cells and downregulated in IC‐21 cells during M. tuberculosis infection. The results support the notion that the origin of tissue‐resident macrophages influences their phenotype and antimicrobial response and demonstrate hereto unrecognized potential for these cell lines in in vitro studies.
Contesting issues between Ethiopia and Sudan over the Gwynn Line: Authorisation and irregularities in the demarcation of the boundary
Authors: Engida Alemayehu Erkihun
Published: July 2021

As two old countries in Africa sharing a long stretch of boundary, Ethiopia and Sudan have been acting as strategic partners in maintaining a neighbourhood and regional security complex. Irrespective, the boundary problem has continued for more than a century and is still point of cooperation and dispute between the two countries. This paper examines the roots of the boundary tensions between Ethiopia and Sudan, divergent views between them over the demarcation made by Gwynn in 1903 and 1909, issues of authorisation, and limitations of the boundary line especially from the River Setit in the North to Mount Daglish, Quara. On the Ethiopian side, divergent views emanated from the territories left to the Sudanese side by Gwynn deflecting the line from the east to the west, disregarding terms signed between Menelik II and Harrington in May 1902. Successive regimes in Ethiopia have declined to recognise Gwenn's demarcation, arguing that the demarcation was unilaterally carried out by one side leaving resource‐rich areas to the Sudanese side. On contrary, the Sudanese have contradicting positions and argue for validation of the Gwynn line. Evidence for this study was collected from different state offices; in addition, elders who have been cultivating in the frontier territories for many years were exhaustively interviewed.
Defect engineering for reduced large AC signal dielectric loss of PZT‐based hard piezoelectric ceramics
Authors: Wang Wugang , Liang Ruihong , Zhou Zhiyong , Zhang Yuanyuan , Dong Xianlin
Published: July 2021

A low dielectric loss value under large AC electric fields is highly desired for piezoelectric ceramics in high‐power applications. However, only a few reports have focused on studying or revealing the dielectric loss behavior and mechanism of piezoelectric ceramics under an AC electric field. In this work, x (Ca, Fe) co‐doped Pb0.96Sr0.04Zr0.53Ti0.47O3 (x = 0.0, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 mol.%) hard piezoelectric ceramics (PSZT‐xCF) were selected for investigation. The lowest dielectric loss (@ E = 500 V mm−1) was 0.8% at x = 1.5 mol.% after aging for 30 days, which was a decrease by an order of magnitude compared with the counterpart pure PSZT. The origin of ultra‐low dielectric loss was thoroughly analyzed. Combined with Rayleigh's law, we investigated the reason behind the changes in dielectric permittivity under AC electric fields with aging time. The significant reduction in the contribution of extrinsic effect of domain wall motion dominated the reduction in dielectric loss because of the introduction of defect dipoles. This work provides a fundamental understanding of low dielectric loss piezoelectric ceramics under AC electric fields for high‐power applications.
Applications of analytical electron microscopy to guide the design of boron carbide
Authors: Marvel Christopher J. , Yang Qirong , Walck Scott D. , Xie Kelvin Y. , Behler Kristopher D. , LaSalvia Jerry C. , Watanabe Masashi , Haber Richard A. , Harmer Martin P.
Published: July 2021

Compositional analysis of boron carbide on nanometer length scales to examine or interpret atomic mechanisms, for example, solid‐state amorphization or grain‐boundary segregation, is challenging. This work reviews advancements in high‐resolution microanalysis to characterize multiple generations of boron carbide. First, ζ‐factor microanalysis will be introduced as a powerful (scanning) transmission electron microscopy ((S)TEM) analytical framework to accurately characterize boron carbide. Three case studies involving the application of ζ‐factor microanalysis will then be presented: (1) accurate stoichiometry determination of B‐doped boron carbide using ζ‐factor microanalysis and electron energy loss spectroscopy, (2) normalized quantification of silicon grain‐boundary segregation in Si‐doped boron carbide, and (3) calibration of a scanning electron microscope X‐ray energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (XEDS) system to measure compositional homogeneity differences of B/Si‐doped arc‐melted boron carbides in the as‐melted and annealed conditions. Overall, the improvement and application of advanced analytical tools have helped better understand processing–microstructure–property relationships and successfully manufacture high‐performance ceramics.
Multifunctional performance of Ti2AlC MAX phase/2D braided alumina fiber laminates
Authors: Gonzalez‐Julian Jesus , Kraleva Irina , Belmonte Manuel , Jung Fabian , Gries Thomas , Bermejo Raul
Published: July 2021

The processing and characterization of laminates based on Ti2AlC MAX phase, as matrix, and triaxial alumina braids, as reinforcing phase, are presented. Ti2AlC powders with a mean particle size below 1 µm are synthesized, while commercial 3M Nextel 610 alumina fibers are braided in a three‐stage process consisting of spooling, braiding with an angle of 0° and ±60° and the separation to single‐layer fabric. The laminates are processed by layer‐by‐layer stacking, where 3 two‐dimensional alumina braids are interleaved between Ti2AlC layers, followed by full densification using a Field‐Assisted Sintering Technology/Spark Plasma Sintering. The multifunctional response of the laminates, as well as for the monolithic Ti2AlC, is evaluated, in particular, the thermal and electrical conductivity, the oxidation resistance, and the mechanical response. The laminates exhibit an anisotropic thermal and electrical behavior, and an excellent oxidation resistance at 1200℃ in air for a week. A relatively lower characteristic biaxial strength and Weibull modulus (i.e., σ0 = 590 MPa and m = 9) for the laminate compared to the high values measured in the monolithic Ti2AlC (i.e., σ0 = 790 MPa and m = 29) indicates the need but also the potential of optimizing MAX‐phase layered structures for multifunctional performance.
Projected climatic changes lead to biome changes in areas of previously constant biome
Authors: Huntley Brian , Allen Judy R. M. , Forrest Matthew , Hickler Thomas , Ohlemüller Ralf , Singarayer Joy S. , Valdes Paul J.
Published: July 2021

Aim

Recent studies in southern Africa identified past biome stability as an important predictor of biodiversity. We aimed to assess the extent to which past biome stability predicts present global biodiversity patterns, and the extent to which projected climatic changes may lead to eventual biome changes in areas with constant past biome.

Location

Global.

Taxon

Spermatophyta; terrestrial vertebrates.

Methods

Biome constancy was assessed and mapped using results from 89 dynamic global vegetation model simulations, driven by outputs of palaeoclimate experiments spanning the past 140 ka. We tested the hypothesis that terrestrial vertebrate diversity is predicted by biome constancy. We also simulated potential future vegetation, and hence potential future biome patterns, and quantified and mapped the extent of projected eventual future biome change in areas of past constant biome.

Results

Approximately 11% of global ice‐free land had a constant biome since 140 ka. Apart from areas of constant Desert, many areas with constant biome support high species diversity. All terrestrial vertebrate groups show a strong positive relationship between biome constancy and vertebrate diversity in areas of greater diversity, but no relationship in less diverse areas. Climatic change projected by 2100 commits 46%–66% of global ice‐free land, and 34%–52% of areas of past constant biome (excluding areas of constant Desert) to eventual biome change.

Main conclusions

Past biome stability strongly predicts vertebrate diversity in areas of higher diversity. Future climatic changes will lead to biome changes in many areas of past constant biome, with profound implications for biodiversity conservation. Some projected biome changes will result in substantial reductions in biospheric carbon sequestration and other ecosystem services.
The circulatory small non‐coding RNA landscape in community‐acquired pneumonia on intensive care unit admission
Authors: Khan Hina N. , Jongejan Aldo , van Vught Lonneke A. , Horn Janneke , Schultz Marcus J. , Zwinderman Aeilko H. , Cremer Olaf L. , Bonten Marc J. , van der Poll Tom , Scicluna Brendon P.
Published: July 2021

Community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a major cause of sepsis. Despite several clinical trials targeting components of the inflammatory response, no specific treatment other than antimicrobial therapy has been approved. This argued for a deeper understanding of sepsis immunopathology, in particular factors that can modulate the host response. Small non‐coding RNA, for example, micro (mi)RNA, have been established as important modifiers of cellular phenotypes. Notably, miRNAs are not exclusive to the intracellular milieu but have also been detected extracellular in the circulation with functional consequences. Here, we sought to determine shifts in circulatory small RNA levels of critically ill patients with CAP‐associated sepsis and to determine the influence of clinical severity and causal pathogens on small RNA levels. Blood plasma was collected from 13 critically ill patients with sepsis caused by CAP on intensive care unit admission and from 5 non‐infectious control participants. Plasma small RNA‐sequencing identified significantly altered levels of primarily mature miRNAs in CAP relative to controls. Pathways analysis of high or low abundance miRNA identified various over‐represented cellular biological pathways. Analysis of small RNA levels against common clinical severity and inflammatory parameters indices showed direct and indirect correlations. Additionally, variance of plasma small RNA levels in CAP patients may be explained, at least in part, by differences in causal pathogens. Small nuclear RNA levels were specifically altered in CAP due to Influenza infection in contrast to Streptococcus pneumoniae infection. Pathway analysis of plasma miRNA signatures unique to Influenza or Streptococcus pneumoniae infections showed enrichment for specific proteoglycan, cell cycle, and immunometabolic pathways.
miRNA‐130b‐5p promotes hepatic stellate cell activation and the development of liver fibrosis by suppressing SIRT4 expression
Authors: Wang Hao , Wang Zeng , Wang Yirui , Li Xiangcheng , Yang Wenjie , Wei Song , Shi Chengyu , Qiu Jiannan , Ni Ming , Rao Jianhua , Cheng Feng
Published: July 2021

Liver fibrosis is a progressive disease accompanied by the deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). Numerous reports have demonstrated that alterations in the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) are related to liver disease. However, the effect of individual miRNAs on liver fibrosis has not been studied. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), being responsible for producing ECM, exert an important influence on liver fibrosis. Then, microarray analysis of non‐activated and activated HSCs induced by transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) showed that miR‐130b‐5p expression was strongly up‐regulated during HSC activation. Moreover, the progression of liver fibrosis had a close connection with the expression of miR‐130b‐5p in different liver fibrosis mouse models. Then, we identified that there were specific binding sites between miR‐130b‐5p and the 3′ UTR of Sirtuin 4 (SIRT4) via a luciferase reporter assay. Knockdown of miR‐130b‐5p increased SIRT4 expression and ameliorated liver fibrosis in mice transfected with antagomiR‐130b‐5p oligos. In general, our results suggested that miR‐130b‐5p promoted HSC activation by targeting SIRT4, which participates in the AMPK/TGF‐β/Smad2/3 signalling pathway. Hence, regulating miR‐130b‐5p maybe serve as a crucial therapeutic treatment for hepatic fibrosis.