bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The NIN-LIKE PROTEIN 7 (NLP7) transcription factor modulates auxin pathways to regulate root cap development
Authors: Kumar Narender , Caldwell Chloe , Iyer-Pascuzzi Anjali S.
Published: March 2022

The root cap surrounds the root tip and promotes root growth by protecting the root apical meristem, influencing root branching, and sensing environmental signals like nitrate. The root cap maintains a constant size through the coordination of cell production in the root meristem with cell release at the tip of the root, a process that requires an auxin minima in the last layer of the root cap. To perform its functions, the root cap must maintain a constant size and synchronize external cues with development, but mechanisms underlying such coordination are not well understood. Mutations in the NIN LIKE PROTEIN 7 (NLP7) transcription factor, a master regulator of nitrate signaling, lead to defects in root cap cell release and cell production. Nitrate impacts root development through crosstalk with auxin. Therefore, we hypothesized that NLP7 regulates root cap cell release and cell production by modulating auxin pathways. Here we show that mutations in NLP7 abolish the auxin minima required for root cap cell release and alter root cap expression levels of the auxin carriers PIN-LIKES 3 (PILS3) and PIN-FORMED 7 (PIN7). We find that NLP7 is required for proper root cap cell production and differentiation and for expression of transcription factors that regulate these processes. Nitrate deficiency impacts auxin pathways in the last layer of the root cap, and this is mediated in part by NLP7. Together, our data suggest that NLP7 integrates nitrate signaling with auxin pathways to optimize root cap development in response to external nitrate cues.

One sentence summary

The nitrate master regulator NLP7 controls root cap development through auxin pathways.
Neural Activity in Afferent Projections to the Infralimbic Cortex is Associated with Individual Differences in the Recall of Fear Extinction
Authors: Russo Amanda S. , Parsons Ryan G.
Published: March 2022

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by an impaired ability to extinguish fear responses to trauma-associated cues. Studies in humans and non-human animals point to differences in the engagement of certain frontal cortical regions as key mediators determining whether or not fear extinction is successful, however the neural circuit interactions that dictate the differential involvement of these regions are not well understood. To better understand how individual differences in extinction recall are reflected in differences in neural circuit activity, we labeled projections to the infralimbic cortex (IL) in rats using a retrograde tracer and compared neural activity within, and outside, of IL-projecting neurons. We analyzed these data in groups separated on the basis of how well rats retained extinction memory. We found that within IL-projecting cells, neurons in the posterior paraventricular thalamus showed heightened activity in rats that showed good extinction recall. Outside of the IL-projecting cells, increased Fos activity was observed in good extinction rats in select regions of the claustrum and ventral hippocampus. Our results indicate that differences in extinction recall are associated with a specific pattern of neural activity both within and outside of projections to the IL.
Lower Risk of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) with the Delta and Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Cohen Jonathan M , Carter Michael J , Cheung C Ronny , Ladhani Shamez ,   Evelina PIMS-TS Study Group
Published: March 2022

Little is known about the MIS-C risk with different SARS-CoV-2 variants. In Southeast England, MIS-C rates per confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections in 0-16 years-olds were 56% lower (rate ratio, 0.34; 95%CI, 0.23-0.50) during pre-vaccine Delta, 66% lower (0.44; 0.28-0.69) during post-vaccine Delta and 95% lower (0.05; 0.02-0.10) during the Omicron period.
Palo: Spatially-aware color palette optimization for single-cell and spatial data
Authors: Hou Wenpin , Ji Zhicheng
Published: March 2022

In the exploratory data analysis of single-cell or spatial genomic data, single cells or spatial spots are often visualized using a two-dimensional plot where cell clusters or spot clusters are marked with different colors. With tens of clusters, current visualization methods often assigns visually similar colors to spatially neighboring clusters, making it hard to identify the distinction between clusters. To address this issue, we developed Palo that optimizes the color palette assignment for single-cell and spatial data in a spatially-aware manner. Palo identifies pairs of clusters that are spatially neighboring to each other and assigns visually distinct colors to those neighboring pairs. We demonstrate that Palo leads to improved visualization in real single-cell and spatial genomic datasets.

Availability

Palo R package is freely available at https://github.com/Winnie09/Palo.

Contact

zhicheng.ji@duke.edu
Effect of GDF15 on acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury in mice
Authors: Jiang Peng , Liu Zhenghong , Fang Tingyu , Zhang Zhidan , Wang Dongdong , Xu Suowen , Weng Jianping
Published: March 2022

Acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury (AILI) has been recognized as a pivotal contributor to drug-induced liver failure in western countries, but its molecular mechanism remains poorly understood. After data mining using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, we found that the gene expression of growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) increased significantly after APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in mouse liver. However, the precise role of GDF15 in AILI has yet to be clarified. To deal with this question, we first examined the temporal gene expression pattern of GDF15 after APAP treatment. Next, overexpression of hepatic GDF15 using adeno-associated virus serotype 8 (AAV8) was employed to investigate the role of GDF15 in AILI. In addition, therapeutic administration of recombinant human GDF15 (rhGDF15) was conducted to probe its curative effect after APAP overdose. We observed that protein expression of GDF15 was significantly increased after APAP overdose. However, there were no significant differences in AILI-related outcomes after overexpression or supplementation of GDF15. The contents of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), morphological feature of liver, the level of reduced form of glutathione (GSH), the activation of c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK), the expression of genes relevant to oxidative stress and cell proliferation were not remarkably changed between AAV8-GFP and AAV8-Gdf15 groups. Although the liver injury was not improved by rhGDF15 administration, the gene expression levels of glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit (Gclm) and glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (Gclc) which function downstream of Nrf2 signaling pathway were significantly increased. Altogether, despite a noticeable elevated expression after APAP overdose, GDF15 overexpression or supplementation exerted no significant ameliorative effect on AILI. Further mechanism and consequence of Gclm and Gclc elevation by GDF15 remains to be elucidated.
Ultrastructure of COPII vesicle formation characterised by correlative light and electron microscopy
Authors: Melero Alejandro , Boulanger Jerome , Kukulski Wanda , Miller Elizabeth A.
Published: March 2022

Traffic of proteins out of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is driven by the COPII coat, a layered protein scaffold that mediates the capture of cargo proteins and the remodelling of the ER membrane into spherical vesicular carriers. Although the components of this machinery have been genetically defined, and the mechanisms of coat assembly extensively explored in vitro, understanding the physical mechanisms of membrane remodelling in cells remains a challenge. Here we use correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM) to visualize the nanoscale ultrastructure of membrane remodelling at ER exit sites (ERES) in yeast cells. Using various COPII mutants, we have determined the broad contribution that each layer of the coat makes in membrane remodelling. Our data suggest that inner coat components define the radius of curvature whereas outer coat components facilitate membrane fission. The organization of the coat in conjunction with membrane biophysical properties determine the ultrastructure of vesicles and thus the efficiency of protein transport.
Neonatal AKI profile using KDIGO guidelines: A cohort study in tertiary care hospital ICU of Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Gul Rafia , Anwar Zahid , Sheikh Mehmood , Salamat Ayesha , Iqbal Samer , Saleem Furqan
Published: March 2022

Background

AKI is witnessed in sick neonates and is associated with poor outcomes. Our cohort represents the profile of neonates who were diagnosed with AKI using KDIGO guidelines during intensive care unit stay.

Methodology

A cohort study was conducted in the NICU of FMH from June 2019 to May 2021. Data were collected on standardized proforma. Serum creatinine was measured within 24 hours after enrollment in the study by cytometric analysis using the C311 Rosch machine and subsequently after 24 to 48 hours. Data analysis was done using SPSS v 20.0. All continuous variables were not normally distributed and were expressed as the median and interquartile range (IQR). Categorical variables were analyzed by proportional differences with either the Pearson chi-square test or Fisher’s exact tests. A multinomial logistic regression model was used to explore the independent risk factors of AKI. Time to the event (death) and survival curves for the cohort were plotted by using Cox proportional hazard model.

Results

AKI occurred in 473 (37.6%) of neonates and 15.7%, 16.3% and 5.6% had stage 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The outborn birth (p 0.000, AOR 3.987, 95%CI 2.564 – 6.200), birth asphyxia (p 0.000, AOR 3.567, 95%CI 2.093 – 6.080), inotropic agent (p 0.000, AOR 2.060, 95%CI 1.436 – 2.957), antenatal steroids (p 0.002, AOR 1.721, 95%CI 1.213 – 2.443), central lines (p 0.005, AOR 1.630, 95%CI 1.155 – 2.298), IVH/ICH/DIC (p 0.009, AOR1.580, 95%CI 1.119 – 2.231) and NEC (p 0.054, AOR 1.747, 95%CI 0.990 – 3.083) were independently associated with AKI. Protective factors of neonatal AKI were normal sodium levels, maternal diabetes mellitus as well Hb>10.5 mg/dl. Duration of stay (7 vs 9 days) and mortality rates (3.9% vs16.5%) were significantly higher in neonates with AKI (p <0.001).

Conclusion

About one-third of critically sick neonates had AKI. Significant risk factors for AKI were outborn birth (298%), birth asphyxia (256%), inotropic agents (106%) %, NEC 74.7%, antenatal steroids 72%, central lines 63% and IVH/ICH/DIC 58%. AKI prolongs the duration of stay and reduces the survival of sick neonates.
Reduced Norepinephrine Transporter Binding in Parkinson’s disease with dopa Responsive Freezing Gait
Authors: McKay J. Lucas , Nye Jonathan , Goldstein Felicia C. , Sommerfeld Barbara , Smith Yoland , Weinshenker David , Factor Stewart A.
Published: March 2022

Freezing of gait (FOG) is a major cause of falling and leads to loss of independence in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The pathophysiology of FOG is poorly understood – although there is a hypothesized link with NE systems. PD-FOG can present in levodopa-responsive and unresponsive forms.

We examined NE transporter (NET) binding via brain positron emission tomography (PET) to evaluate changes in NET density associated with FOG using the high affinity selective NET antagonist radioligand [11C]MeNER (2S,3S)(2-[α-(2-methoxyphenoxy)benzyl]morpholine) in N=52 parkinsonian patients. We used a rigorous levodopa challenge paradigm to characterize patients as non-freezing PD (NO-FOG, N=16), levodopa responsive freezing (OFF-FOG, N=10), levodopa-unresponsive freezing (ONOFF-FOG, N=21), and primary progressive freezing of gait (PP-FOG, N=5).

Linear mixed models identified significant reductions in whole brain NET binding in the OFF-FOG group compared to the NO-FOG group (−16.8%, P=0.021). Additional contrasts tested post-hoc identified trends toward increased NET expression in ONOFF-FOG vs. OFF-FOG (≈10%; P=0.123). Linear mixed models with interaction terms identified significantly reduced NET binding in right thalamus in the OFF-FOG group (P=0.038). A linear regression analysis identified an association between reduced NET binding and more severe NFOG-Q score only in the OFF-FOG group (P=0.022).

This is the first study to examine brain noradrenergic innervation using NET-PET in PD patients with and without FOG. Based on the normal regional distribution of noradrenergic innervation and pathological studies in the thalamus of PD patients, the implications of our findings suggest that noradrenergic limbic pathways may play a key role in OFF-FOG in PD. This finding could have implications for clinical subtyping of FOG as well as development of therapies.
Neutrophil Peptidylarginine Deiminase 4 is Essential for Detrimental Age-related Cardiac Remodeling & Dysfunction in Mice
Authors: Van Bruggen Stijn , Kraisin Sirima , Van Wauwe Jore , Carai Paolo , Frederix Liesbeth , Witsch Thilo , Martinod Kimberly
Published: March 2022

Aims

We aimed to study the long-term effect of neutrophils on cardiac health during the process of natural aging. We hypothesized that neutrophil PAD4, via its role in neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, is involved in myocardial remodeling and cardiac fibrosis development, resulting in turn in impaired cardiac function.

Methods and results

We generated mice with deletion ofPadi4, a NET-essential gene, under the neutrophil-specific promoter S100A8 (PAD4fl/flMRP8Cre+). These mice and their littermate controls were aged for two years (coinciding with approximately 70 years of age in humans; the age at which HF is the number one cause of hospitalization), after which cardiac function and remodeling were evaluated. We performed a comprehensive echocardiography analysis including both structural and functional parameter measurements. Deletion of PAD4 in neutrophils resulted in a protection against both systolic, and diastolic dysfunction. Interestingly, these mice showed protection against age induced fibrosis, detected as through the absence of cardiac collagen deposition. To explore this further, cardiac gene expression and plasma cytokine levels were evaluated. Here we saw a clear impact of PAD4-deficiency on cardiac neutrophil recruitment, with both cardiac genes as well as plasma cytokines involved in neutrophil recruitment being downregulated in aged PAD4fl/flMRP8Cre+animals in comparison to littermate PAD4fl/flcontrols, including decreased plasma levels of C-X-C ligand 1 (CXCL1).

Conclusion

Our data confirms neutrophil PAD4 involvement in heart failure progression by promoting cardiac remodeling, leading to cardiac dysfunction with old age. We saw that the deletion of PAD4 specifically in neutrophils had an influence on the CXCL1-CXCR2 axis, which is known to be involved in HF development.

Translational perspective

In the developed world, an estimated 2% of the population lives with heart failure (HF). HF can be viewed as an upcoming pandemic, which is only expected to increase due to the aging of the global population. Therefore, research in HF development and progression are needed to establish new avenues for treatment and improved therapies. In our study, we were able to show the contribution of neutrophil PAD4 to HF pathogenesis, providing new supporting evidence for the involvement of NETs in detrimental cardiac remodeling.
Structural insights into p300 regulation and acetylation-dependent genome organisation
Authors: Ibrahim Ziad , Wang Tao , Destaing Olivier , Salvi Nicola , Hoghoughi Naghmeh , Chabert Clovis , Rusu Alexandra , Gao Jinjun , Feletto Leonardo , Reynoird Nicolas , Schalch Thomas , Zhao Yingming , Blackledge Martin , Khochbin Saadi , Panne Daniel
Published: March 2022

Histone modifications are deposited by chromatin modifying enzymes and read out by proteins that recognize the modified state. BRD4-NUT is an oncogenic fusion protein of the acetyl lysine reader BRD4 that binds to the acetylase p300 and enables formation of long-range intra- and interchromosomal interactions. We here examine how acetylation reading and writing enable formation of such interactions. We show that NUT contains an acidic transcriptional activation domain that binds to the TAZ2 domain of p300. We use NMR to investigate the structure of the complex and found that the TAZ2 domain has an autoinhibitory role for p300. NUT-TAZ2 interaction or mutations found in cancer that interfere with autoinhibition by TAZ2 allosterically activate p300. p300 activation results in a self-organizing, acetylation-dependent feed-forward reaction that enables long-range interactions by bromodomain multivalent acetyl-lysine binding. We discuss the implications for chromatin organisation, gene regulation and dysregulation in disease.
Ontogeny of oscillatory slow-wave and neuronal population activity in human iPSC-3D cortical circuits
Authors: Izsak Julia , Theiss Stephan , Illes Sebastian
Published: March 2022

Oscillatory slow-wave activity (0.5—100 Hz) emerges during fetal human cortex development reflecting functional consequences of cellular brain ontogeny. Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived (iPSC) neural in vitro models recapitulate aspects of in vivo cellular brain ontogeny, while neuronal mesoscale functional ontogeny is largely uncharacterized. We utilized a human iPSC-derived 3D cortical aggregate model to assess properties of emerging oscillatory slow-wave activity and its relation to synchronous neuronal population activity in cortical circuits. We reveal that oscillatory slow-wave activity (< 1 Hz), phased locked to synchronous population bursting, emerges within 14 days in vitro followed by consecutive stages of emerging delta (1—4 Hz), theta (4—11 Hz), beta (11—30 Hz), and gamma (30—55 Hz) oscillatory activity, accompanied by stage-specific changes in neuronal population burst pattern characteristics.

We provide a classification of neuronal mesoscale functional ontogeny stages of developing human iPSC-cortical circuits, where each stage is defined by specific oscillatory slow-wave activity and characteristic synchronous neuronal bursting patterns.
Domain decomposition and upscaling technique for metascreens
Authors: Leumüller Michael , Hollaus Karl , Schöberl Joachim
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to consider a multiscale electromagnetic wave problem for a housing with a ventilation grill. Using the standard finite element method to discretise the apertures leads to an unduly large number of unknowns. An efficient approach to simulate the multiple scales is introduced. The aim is to significantly reduce the computational costs.

Design/methodology/approach

A domain decomposition technique with upscaling is applied to cope with the different scales. The idea is to split the domain of computation into an exterior domain and multiple non-overlapping sub-domains. Each sub-domain represents a single aperture and uses the same finite element mesh. The identical mesh of the sub-domains is efficiently exploited by the hybrid discontinuous Galerkin method and a Schur complement which facilitates the transition from fine meshes in the sub-domains to a coarse mesh in the exterior domain. A coarse skeleton grid is used on the interface between the exterior domain and the individual sub-domains to avoid large dense blocks in the finite element discretisation matrix.

Findings

Applying a Schur complement to the identical discretisation of the sub-domains leads to a method that scales very well with respect to the number of apertures.

Originality/value

The error compared to the standard finite element method is negligible and the computational costs are significantly reduced.
‘I Wish the School Had a Better Understanding of the Diagnosis’: parent perspectives on educational needs of students with sex chromosome aneuploidies
Authors: Thompson Talia , Stinnett Nicole , Tartaglia Nicole , Davis Shanlee , Janusz Jennifer
Published: March 2022

Students with sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCAs) are at increased risk for learning disabilities and often require individualized supports in the school setting. Parents of students with rare disorders such as SCAs possess a unique understanding of their child’s educational experiences and play a crucial role in the development of successful school support plans. This international survey study aimed to inductively capture parent perspectives on educational needs and supports for students with SCAs. Parents of youth with SCAs ages 5‐21 years (n = 305) provided free‐text responses to open‐ended questions about their child’s education. Qualitative content analysis using a bioecological systems framework resulted in three overarching themes. Overall, parents identified multiple factors related to the SCA diagnosis that act as barriers to learning, a strong need for school‐based social and emotional supports, and elusive or incomplete educational support plans. Based on these findings, we recommend developing robust family‐school partnerships, increased collaboration between the school and the child’s medical team, and acknowledgement of the significant role the genetic condition plays in the educational experiences of students with SCAs. Specific suggestions for school support plans for students with SCAs are explored, such as providing school‐based behavioral health supports and explicit teaching of executive function strategies.
Pulse flaking: Opportunities and challenges, a review
Authors: Cork Stephen David , Blanchard Chris , Mawson Andrew John , Farahnaky Asgar
Published: March 2022

Pulses provide economic and health benefits to people in many countries around the world; however, their adoption in western diets, particularly in processed and formulated foods, is limited. One strategy to increase the level of pulses in western diets is to improve pulse accessibility to the ready‐to‐eat (RTE) food market sector. Pulses have compositional and structural differences when compared to cereals and behave differently during processing. While there have been numerous studies on pulses processed using traditional processing methods, there are limited studies describing processing of pulses as a major ingredient in RTE forms such as flakes. To understand the full processing potential of pulses, systematic studies are required using commercial‐scale RTE pilot processing equipment coupled with fundamental property determination techniques to evaluate the effects of processing and pulse material on pulse flake attributes. In‐depth studies of pulse properties and their processability are likely to result in the production of high‐quality pulse‐based foods with superior health benefits. This review explores the current and potential opportunities for processing pulses with a focus on flake products. The roles of pulse type and major structure‐forming components such as fiber, carbohydrates, and proteins on end‐product quality of processed pulses are discussed.
Biomarkers and biosensors for the diagnosis of noncompliant pH, dark cutting beef predisposition, and welfare in cattle
Authors: Nelis Joost L. D. , Bose Utpal , Broadbent James A. , Hughes Joanne , Sikes Anita , Anderson Alisha , Caron Karine , Schmoelzl Sabine , Colgrave Michelle L.
Published: March 2022

Meat quality can be affected by stress, exhaustion, feed composition, and other physical and environmental conditions. These stressors can alter the pH in postmortem muscle, leading to high pH and low‐quality dark cutting (DC) beef, resulting in considerable economic loss. Moreover, the dark cutting prediction may equally provide a measure for animal welfare since it is directly related to animal stress. There are two needs to advance on‐site detection of dark cutters: (1) a clear indication that biomarker (signature compounds) levels in cattle correlate with stress and DC outcome; and (2) measuring these biomarkers rapidly and accurately on‐farm or the abattoir, depending on the objectives. This critical review assesses which small molecules and proteins have been identified as potential biomarkers of stress and dark cutting in cattle. We discuss the potential of promising small molecule biomarkers, including catecholamine/cortisol metabolites, lactate, succinate, inosine, glucose, and β‐hydroxybutyrate, and we identify a clear research gap for proteomic biomarker discovery in live cattle. We also explore the potential of chemical‐sensing and biosensing technologies, including direct electrochemical detection improved through nanotechnology (e.g., carbon and gold nanostructures), surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy in combination with chemometrics, and commercial hand‐held devices for small molecule detection. No current strategy exists to rapidly detect predictive meat quality biomarkers due to the need to further validate biomarkers and the fact that different biosensor types are needed to optimally detect different molecules. Nonetheless, several biomarker/biosensor combinations reported herein show excellent potential to enable the measurement of DC potential in live cattle.
Multilocus DNA metabarcoding diet analyses of small cetaceans: a case study on highly vulnerable humpback dolphins and finless porpoises from the Pearl River Estuary, China
Authors: ZHANG Xiyang , LUO Dingyu , YU Ri‐Qing , WU Yuping
Published: March 2022

Accurate diet identification of top predators is crucial to fully understand their ecological roles. Compared to terrestrial animals, gathering dietary information from cetaceans is notoriously difficult. Here, we applied a multilocus metabarcoding approach to investigate the diet of vulnerable Indo‐Pacific humpback dolphins and Indo‐Pacific finless porpoises from the Pearl River Estuary (PRE), China. Our analyses identified 21 prey fish species from the 42 humpback dolphin stomachs, as well as 10 species of fish and 1 species of cephalopod from the 13 finless porpoise stomachs. All of the taxa were assigned to the species level, highlighting that the multimarker approach could facilitate species identification. Most of the prey species were small‐ and medium‐sized fishes that primarily fed on zooplankton. The calculated similarity index revealed a moderated dietary overlap between the 2 cetaceans, presumably due to the feeding of the 2 predators in association with fishing vessels in the PRE. A more diverse diet was observed in humpback dolphins in the closed fishing season compared to the fishing season, implying the influence on the dolphin diet due to the availability of commercial fishery resources. However, according to the results of species rarefaction curves, our findings on the feeding habits of the 2 cetaceans are still limited by insufficient sample size and therefore should be interpreted with caution. This study represents a first attempt to apply the multilocus DNA metabarcoding technique in the diet analysis of small cetaceans, although more efforts are needed to improve this type of analysis.
Ethnobotanical and phytochemical aspects of the edible herb Coriandrum sativum L.
Authors: Sobhani Zahra , Mohtashami Leila , Amiri Mohammad Sadegh , Ramezani Mahin , Emami Seyed Ahmad , Simal‐Gandara Jesus
Published: March 2022

Coriandrum sativum (coriander) is an edible herb in the family Apiaceae. The leaves, fruits, and stems of C. sativum have long been used as culinary spice due to their favorable odor. Traditional practitioners used this plant for treating different diseases like blepharitis, scabies, aphthous stomatitis, laryngitis, headache, and palpitation. In modern researches, coriander has demonstrated anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, antimigraine, neuroprotective, analgesic, diuretic, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, hypotensive, anticancer, and antioxidant activities. Coriander contains a wide range of bioactive phytochemicals among which phenylpropenes, terpenoids, isocoumarins, phytosterols, and fatty acids are the most important. This review provides information about the botanical and ethnobotanical aspects, chemical profile, therapeutic uses in Islamic traditional medicine (ITM), and recent pharmacological studies of coriander effects. The results have shown that coriander and its monoterpenoid compound, linalool, can be considered as potential drug candidates for treating metabolic syndrome and different inflammatory conditions especially neural and CNS diseases.
Bombax ceiba calyx displays antihyperglycemic activity via improving insulin secretion and sensitivity: Identification of bioactive phytometabolomes by UPLC‐QTof‐MS/MS
Authors: Komati Anusha , Anand Ajay , Nagendla Narendra Kumar , Madhusudana Kuncha , Mudiam Mohana Krishna Reddy , Babu Katragadda Suresh , Tiwari Ashok Kumar
Published: March 2022

Vegetables are considered good food for the management of hyperglycemia. Bombax ceiba L. (family: Bombacaceae) calyces are part of traditional vegetables. This study evaluated its usefulness on various parameters responsible for the development of hyperglycemia and conducted phytometabolomic analysis to identify phytochemicals responsible for the observed activities. It was found that the aqueous methanol extract of its calyces (B. ceiba calyx extract, BCE) reduced (12.4%) significantly (p < 0.05) the development of sucrose‐induced postprandial hyperglycemic load in rats. In‐vitro studies revealed that BCE improved glucose‐stimulated insulin secretory activity in MIN6 cells plausibly by decreasing ADP/ATP ratio. BCE also augmented concentration‐dependent (5 µg, 10 µg, and 20 µg) increase in glucose uptake in hyperglycemic L6 myotubes both by non‐insulin‐dependent manner (35%, 68%, and 132%, respectively) and insulin‐dependent manner (42%, 59%, and 172%, respectively). The insulin‐stimulated GLUT4 translocation was compromised (34%) significantly (p < 0.05) under hyperglycemic condition; however, it was improved by 23% and 72% (p < 0.001) when L6 myotubes were primed with 10 and 20 µg of BCE, respectively. Hyperglycemia aggravated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in L6 myotubes. The ROS generation was significantly (p < 0.001) reduced by priming myotubes with BCE before challenging myotubes to hyperglycemic environment, possibly by preserving cellular antioxidant enzymes catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and reduced glutathione levels. Phytometabolomic analysis disclosed a number of phytochemicals present in B. ceiba calyces known to display these activities. This is the first study reporting antihyperglycemic activity in B. ceiba calyces, its mechanisms of action, and phytometabolomic profile applying UPLC‐QTof‐MS/MS technique.

Practical Application

B. ceiba calyces are part of traditional vegetables. Our study finds that B. ceiba calyces contain phytochemicals possessing antihyperglycemic, insulin secretory, insulin sensitization properties, and potentials for preserving hyperglycemia‐induced vitiations in cellular antioxidant defense. These observations provide foundation for exploring further possibilities of B. ceiba calyces to become valuable dietary inclusion in the diet of people suffering from metabolic disorders.
Changes in antioxidant activity, phenolic compounds, fatty acids, and mineral contents of raw, germinated, and boiled lentil seeds
Authors: Alkaltham Mohammed Saeed , Musa Özcan Mehmet , Uslu Nurhan , Salamatullah Ahmad Mohammad , Hayat Khizar
Published: March 2022

Lipid contents of lentil seeds were determined between 1.02% (germinated) and 1.23% (boiled). Total phenolic and flavonoid amounts of processed lentils were detected between 45.32 mgGAE/100 g (germinated) and 68.02 mgGAE/100 g (control) to 70.95 mgQE/100 g (germinated) and 199.52 mgQE/100 g (control), respectively. Also, antioxidant activity values of lentil seeds were detected between 0.70 mgTE/kg (germinated) and 3.35 mgTE/kg (boiled). The major phenolic compounds of raw, germinated, and boiled lentil seeds were gallic acid, 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid, and catechin. While oleic acid amounts of lentil oils vary between 33.22% (control) and 47.72% (germinated), linoleic acid amounts of lentil oils were detected between 26.40% (germinated) and 40.91% (boiled). In addition, linolenic acid amounts of lentil oils were determined between 4.12% (germinated) and 6.97% (boiled).The key minerals of raw, germinated, and boiled lentil seeds were P, K, Mg, and S. However, according to the results, it was determined that lentils are a good source of potassium.

Practical Application

Lentil is one of the oldest known food products used only in human food. Lentils are an excellent source of phytochemical nutrients. Lentils are widely used in salads, casseroles, and soups as well as in vegetarian cuisine. Lentil is considered a good source of energy along with high fiber content. Germination plays an important role in reducing nonnutritive compounds in legumes.
Encapsulation efficiency and oral delivery stability of chitosan–liposome‐encapsulated immunoglobulin Y
Authors: Li Xiaomeng , Tang Chaoqing , Salama Mohamed , Xia Minquan , Huang Xi , Sheng Long , Cai Zhaoxia
Published: March 2022

The degradation of acidic gastric juice on immunoglobulin Y (IgY) leads to destruction on the structural and loss of the bioactivity, limiting the bioavailability of oral IgY and its research or application in adjuvant treatment of diseases. In this work, it was surmounted with IgY‐loaded chitosan–liposomes prepared by supercritical carbon dioxide‐assisted method. A range of chitosan concentrations (0%, 0.5%, 0.8%, 1.1%, and 1.4%) were selected to explore the influence of chitosan concentration on the encapsulation effectiveness, stability, and in vitro‐simulated digestive release properties of liposome‐encapsulated IgY. The results displayed that owing to the robust interaction between chitosan and liposomes, the particle size, encapsulation efficiency, and stability of liposomes reached the optimal state at a chitosan concentration of 0.8%, with the encapsulation efficiency reaching 77.51%. Moreover, the liposomes could be stored at 4°C for 9 days without obvious sedimentation. The zeta potential of liposomes containing 0.8% chitosan was higher than that of samples without chitosan at high salt concentration treatment. In vitro release experiments demonstrated that liposomes fitted well in the Peppas equation. Chitosan‐coated liposomes were capable of delaying the release of IgY in the stomach during simulated digestion, allowing more IgY to be released in the intestine. To sum up, Chitosan played a vital role in maintaining the stability and encapsulation of IgY, and the results of this work provide a theoretical basis for the development and utilization of chitosan and the protection of activity of IgY when administered orally.

Practical Application

IgY serves as a bioactive substance with anti‐inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant functions. However, it is far from satisfactory for the oral delivery activity of IgY. Encapsulation of liposomes contributed to alleviate the release of IgY in the stomach. However, liposomes were less stable and not efficient enough to encapsulate IgY. This study demonstrated that the addition of 0.8% chitosan could effectively enhance the encapsulation efficiency of liposomes and improved the stability of liposomes. It might contribute to the solution of the oral delivery activity of IgY and provide a promising idea for the utilization of chitosan.
Here be dragons: important spatial uncertainty driven by climate data in forecasted distribution of an endangered insular reptile
Authors: Dubos N , Augros S , Deso G , Probst J‐M , Notter J‐C , Roesch M A
Published: March 2022

The effect of future climate change is poorly studied in the tropics, especially in mountainous areas, yet species living in these environments are predicted to be strongly affected. Newly available high‐resolution environmental data and statistical methods enable the development of forecasting models, but the uncertainty related to climate models can be strong, which can lead to ineffective conservation actions. Predictive studies aimed at providing conservation guidelines often account for a range of future climate predictions (climate scenarios and global circulation models). However, very few studies consider potential differences related to the source of climate data and/or do not account for spatial information (overlap) in uncertainty assessments. We modelled the environmental suitability for Phelsuma borbonica, an endangered reptile native to Reunion Island. Using two metrics of species range change (difference in overall suitability and spatial overlap), we quantified the uncertainty related to the modelling technique (n = 10), sample bias correction, climate change scenario, global circulation models (GCM) and data source (CHELSA vs. Worldclim). Uncertainty was mainly driven by GCMs when considering overall suitability, while for spatial overlap, the uncertainty related to data source became more important than that of GCMs. The uncertainty driven by sample bias correction and variable selection was much higher when assessed based on the spatial overlap. The modelling technique was a strong driver of uncertainty in both cases. We provide a consensus ensemble prediction map of the environmental suitability of P. borbonica to identify the areas predicted to be the most suitable in the future with the highest certainty. Predictive studies aimed at identifying priority areas for conservation in the face of climate change need to account for a wide panel of modelling techniques, GCMs and data sources. We recommend the use of multiple approaches, including spatial overlap when assessing uncertainty in species distribution models.
School breakfast and student behavior
Authors: Cuadros‐Meñaca Andres , Thomsen Michael R. , Nayga Rodolfo M.
Published: March 2022

The School Breakfast Program (SBP) is one of the largest nutrition assistance programs serving school‐aged children in the US. It provides reimbursement to states for the operation of breakfast programs in schools. Student participation in the SBP is, however, much lower than the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). Because missing breakfast could result in hunger that could then influence children's interpersonal relations and classroom behavior (i.e., disciplinary infractions), some schools have implemented breakfast after the bell (BAB), which encompasses alternative breakfast delivery methods that make breakfast available to children after the school day commences. We use a difference‐in‐differences design with variation in BAB exposure across grades to study the effect on children's behavior. We find that infractions drop after schools adopted BAB. Moreover, the impact of BAB on behavior is more pronounced among minority children and those eligible for free and reduced‐price meals.
Effectiveness of an aged simulation training suit to support development of compassion and person‐centred care in the aged‐care workforce
Authors: Bennett Paul , Burns Rebecca , Champion Stephanie , Gordon Susan
Published: March 2022

Objectives

The Australian aged‐care sector employees are diverse, with a wide range of training backgrounds and work experience. Compassion and person‐centred care (PCC) are essential for quality care. Effective training is required to facilitate compassion and PCC in the diverse workforce.

Methods

Eligible staff members (n = 732) participated in a 3‐hour training activity using an aged simulation training suit. Training sessions were offered at eight ACH Group residential care sites. During the training, staff were required to complete functional daily tasks while wearing the suit. Pre‐ and post‐training questionnaires were used to assess change in staff members’ self‐assessment of compassion and PCC. The Compassion Competence Scale and the Person‐centred Care Assessment Tool were used to assess compassion and PCC.

Results

In total, 160 (22%) staff members participated in the evaluation of the training. Overall, participants reported significant improvements in self‐reported compassion (p < 0.01) and PCC after the training (p < 0.001), compassionate communication (p < 0.001) and insight (p < 0.001), and ability to personalise care (p < 0.001) and in recognising patients’ environmental accessibility (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The simulation activity improved aspects of compassion and person‐centred care for the aged‐care workforce. Further research is required to understand whether these changes are reflected in daily practice.
Accurate and time‐saving, two‐step intracavernosal injection procedure to diagnose psychological erectile dysfunction
Authors: Santi Daniele , Spaggiari Giorgia , Simoni Manuela , Granata Antonio R. M.
Published: March 2022

Background

The recognition of the erectile dysfunction pathogenesis is essential to identify the appropriate erectile dysfunction management. As vascular erectile dysfunction could be a manifestation of a systemic arterial damage, the watershed in the erectile dysfunction diagnostic framework is the discrimination between psychological erectile dysfunction and vascular erectile dysfunction. However, reliable tools to directly diagnose psychological erectile dysfunction are currently lacking.

Objective

To identify which parameters could predict psychological erectile dysfunction. Moreover, we suggest a new intracavernosal injection procedure to optimize the erectile dysfunction diagnostic workup.

Materials and methods

A retrospective, real‐world analysis was carried out including all men who underwent intracavernosal injection procedure at the Modena Andrology Unit from 2018 to 2021. A first intracavernosal injection procedure with 5 µg of prostaglandin E‐1 (PGE‐1) was performed. In the absence of a full drug‐induced erection (immediate or delayed), an echo‐color Doppler penile evaluation after administration of PGE‐1 10 µg was conducted, measuring intracavernosal blood flows, to document a possible vascular etiology. Hormonal evaluations were performed.

Results

Out of 179 enrolled patients, 70.4% showed psychological erectile dysfunction, 21.7% vascular erectile dysfunction, and 7.8% hormonal genesis. Multinomial logistic regression analysis identified absence of cardiovascular disease (p = 0.017), presence of spontaneous morning erections (p = 0.018), and normal penile erections with masturbation (p = 0.035) as predictors of psychological erectile dysfunction. Clinically, normal intracavernosal injection test response was detected in 86 patients and abnormal response in 93 subjects. Among the latter, 54 patients experienced a delayed response. The combination of intracavernosal injection test with late penile erections evaluation was able to diagnose psychological erectile dysfunction (sensitivity 97%, specificity 100%), avoiding unnecessary retesting.

Discussion

We propose a two‐step intracavernosal injection procedure that allows to recognize psychological erectile dysfunction with a high sensitivity/specificity, saving costs and time, and limiting adverse events. Moreover, the presence of spontaneous morning erections and valid penile erections after masturbation could guide the diagnostic workup, indirectly identifying those patients deserving of a deeper evaluation of vascular health.
Children’s advocacy centre fails to respond to dental, mental and physical ill‐health in abused children
Authors: Göransson Linn , Ekermann Sofia , Dovik Christoffer , Klingberg Gunilla , Ridell Karin , Laurell Louise
Published: March 2022

Aim

Sweden´s first multidisciplinary children's advocacy centre (CAC) was founded in 2005 as a collaborative practice between child protection services, the legal system and health care in response to police‐reported child abuse. CACs were introduced in the county of Skåne in 2007. The aim of the study was to describe the health of children investigated at the CAC in Lund, and to examine whether the CAC model of collaboration responded to the healthcare needs of these children.

Methods

All children aged 0–17 years investigated at the CAC in 2015 were included in this retrospective study. We reviewed the CAC files and the children's medical and dental records from one year prior to, until one year after their assessment at the CAC.

Results

Our review of the medical and dental records (n = 298) showed a high prevalence of mental, dental and physical ill‐health. After the CAC joint meeting, only 1% of the children were referred for a medical examination and 4% for a focused forensic evaluation.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates limitations in the CAC process in responding to extensive health issues of the young victims of crime. We suggest mental, dental and physical health assessments to be statutory in CACs.
Suprapubic catheterisation: a study of 1000 elective procedures
Authors: Hobbs Catherine , Howles Sarah , Derry Fadel , Reynard John
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To investigate the risks and long‐term outcomes of suprapubic catheter (SPC) insertion in a population predominantly with spinal cord injury.

Materials and Methods

We used the theatre database at the National Spinal Injuries Centre in Stoke Mandeville Hospital to identify 1000 consecutive SPC insertions from 1998 to 2015. We retrospectively analysed all records for these patients.

Results

Follow‐up ranged from 4 weeks to 16.45 years (median 3.3 years). Either cystoscopy‐guided suprapubic puncture (Lawrence Add‐a‐Cath trochar) or a direct incision onto a urethral sound (Lowsley retractor) followed by cystoscopy was used for 98% of insertions. Complications graded as Clavien–Dindo IIIb or higher occurred in 0.6% of patients. Return to theatre was necessary in 0.4%, including three laparotomies due to bleeding or misplacement of the catheter, but no bowel injuries occurred. One death occurred within 30 days due to pulmonary embolism. There were no significant differences in outcomes between insertion methods. Tolerance of long‐term suprapubic catheterisation was high, despite 59% of cases experiencing mostly minor complications. Tract losses during routine community change and variability in antibiotic prescribing highlighted areas for educational development which could improve patient outcomes.

Conclusions

This study supports the view that the risk of major complications from SPC insertion is lower than previously reported. Minor complications related to the catheter are common in the long term but are generally well tolerated.
Feasibility study on collecting patient‐reported outcomes from breast cancer patients using the LINE‐ePRO system
Authors: Hayashida Tetsu , Nagayama Aiko , Seki Tomoko , Takahashi Maiko , Matsumoto Akiko , Kubota Anna , Jinno Hiromitsu , Miyata Hiroaki , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: March 2022

Due to the increasing complexity of cancer treatment, ensuring safety and maintaining the quality of life during treatment are important issues. Patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) in oncology are essential for assessing patient symptoms. A feasibility study was undertaken on breast cancer patients by building a PRO data collection system based on LINE, one of the most popular social network service applications in Japan. In this study, one or more predefined PRO questions for each breast cancer patient's clinical situation were sent to the patient’s LINE application daily. The patient selected a predefined answer by tapping the screen, but no free‐text answers were allowed. Seventy‐three patients were enrolled. The median observation period was 435 days (84‐656 days), and the total number of PROs collected was 16,417, with a mean of 224.9 reports per patient. Patients on adjuvant endocrine therapy were notified of 2.5 questions per week, and the median number of responses per week and response rate were 2.387 (1.687‐11.627) and 95.5%, respectively. Analyzing the results by age group, the number of responses from those aged 60 and above was equal to or higher than that of the younger age group. It was also possible to track each patient’s PROs accurately. These results suggested that the design of the system, based on an application used daily, instead of using specifically prepared applications for collecting electronic PROs, was the reason for the favorable acceptance from patients and the satisfactory response rate from all age groups, including the elderly.