bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flexible linker modulates the binding affinity of the TP901‐1 CI phage repressor to DNA
Authors: Varming Anders Kokkenborg , Rasmussen Kim Krighaar , Zong Zhiyou , Thulstrup Peter Waaben , Kilstrup Mogens , Lo Leggio Leila
Published: October 2021

Temperate bacteriophages can switch between two life cycles following infection of a host bacterium: the lytic or lysogenic life cycle. The choice between these is controlled by a bistable genetic switch. We investigated the genetic switch of the lactococcal temperate bacteriophage, TP901‐1, which is controlled by two regulatory proteins, the Clear 1 (CI) repressor and modulator of repression (MOR) antirepressor. CI consists of a DNA‐binding N‐terminal domain and a C‐terminal domain responsible for oligomerization, connected by a flexible interdomain linker. Full‐length CI is hexameric, whereas the truncated version CI with 58 C‐terminal residues truncated (CIΔ58), missing the second C‐terminal subdomain, is dimeric, but binds with the same affinity as full‐length CI to the OL operator site, responsible for lytic genes transcription repression. Three variants of CIΔ58 with shorter, longer, and PP substituted linkers were produced and confirmed by circular dichroism spectroscopy and nanodifferential scanning fluorimetry to be well folded. With small‐angle X‐ray scattering, we delineated the conformational space sampled by the variants and wild‐type in solution and found that shortening and lengthening the linker decrease and increase this, respectively, as also substantiated by molecular dynamics and as intended. Isoelectric focusing electrophoresis confirmed that all variants are able to bind to the MOR antirepressor. However, using electrophoretic mobility shift assays, we showed that shortening and lengthening the linker lead to a 94 and 17 times decrease in affinity to OL, respectively. Thus, an appropriate linker length appears to be crucial for appropriate DNA‐binding and subsequent TP901‐1 genetic switch function.
EGFR is a pivotal player of the E2/ERβ – mediated functional properties, aggressiveness, and stemness in triple‐negative breast cancer cells
Authors: Kyriakopoulou Konstantina , Kefali Elena , Piperigkou Zoi , Riethmüller Christoph , Greve Burkhard , Franchi Marco , Götte Martin , Karamanos Nikos K.
Published: October 2021

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is defined by aggressive behavior, limited response to chemotherapy and lower overall survival rates. The increased metastatic potential of TNBC is a combined result of extensive extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling that leads to cytoskeleton rearrangement and activation of epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). The overexpression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in TNBC tumors has been linked to induced expression of EMT‐related molecules. EMT activation has often been associated with increased metastasis and stemness. Recently, we described the crucial role of EGFR/estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) interplay in the regulation of invasion and cell–matrix interactions. In this study, we report on the EGFR‐ERβ functional relationship in connection to the aggressiveness and cancer stem cell (CSC)‐like characteristics of TNBC cells. ERβ‐suppressed and MDA‐MB‐231 cells were subjected to downstream EGFR inhibition and/or estradiol stimulation to assess alterations in functional parameters as well as in morphological characteristics, studied by scanning electron, atomic force, and immunofluorescence microscopies. Moreover, the expression and localization of key EMT and CSC‐related markers were also evaluated by real‐time qPCR, immunofluorescence microscopy, and flow cytometry. EGFR inhibition resulted in an overall suppression of aggressive functional characteristics, which occurred in an ERβ‐mediated manner. These changes could be attributed to a reduction, at the molecular level, of EMT and stemness‐linked markers, most notably reduced expression of Notch signaling constituents and the cell surface proteoglycan, syndecan‐1. Collectively, our study highlights the importance of EGFR signaling as a key effector of aggressiveness, EMT, and stemness in an ERβ‐dependent way in TNBC.
Pre‐existing mycobacterial infection modulates Candida albicans‐driven pyroptosis
Authors: Bhatt Bharat , Prakhar Praveen , Lohia Gaurav Kumar , Rajmani Raju S. , Balaji Kithiganahalli Narayanaswamy
Published: October 2021

Active tuberculosis patients are at high risk of coinfection with opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans. However, the molecular mechanisms that orchestrate pathogenesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb)‐C. albicans coinfection remain elusive. In the current study, we utilize a mouse model to demonstrate that Mtb promotes a macrophage environment that is conducive for C. albicans survival. Mtb‐dependent protein kinase Cζ‐WNT signalling axis induces expression of an E3 ubiquitin ligase, constitutive photomorphogenesis protein 1 (COP1). A secondary infection of C. albicans in such Mtb‐infected macrophages causes COP1 to mediate the proteasomal degradation of interferon regulatory factor 9 (IRF9), a cardinal factor that we identified to arbitrate an inflammatory programmed cell death, pyroptosis. In vivo experiments mimicking a pre‐existing Mtb infection demonstrate that inhibition of pyroptosis in mice results in increased C. albicans burden and aberrant lung tissue architecture, leading to increased host mortality. Together, our study reveals the crucial role of pyroptosis regulation for manifesting a successful C. albicans–Mtb coinfection.
Effects of nitrogen removal from wastewater on phytoplankton in eutrophic prairie streams
Authors: Bergbusch Nathanael T. , Hayes Nicole M. , Simpson Gavin L. , Swarbrick Vanessa J. , Quiñones‐Rivera Zoraida J. , Leavitt Peter R.
Published: October 2021

Biological nutrient removal (BNR) may be an effective strategy to reduce eutrophication; however, concerns remain about effects on receiving waters of removing both nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), rather than P alone.

Phytoplankton abundance (as µg chlorophyll a/L) and community composition (as nmol biomarker pigment/L) were quantified over 6 years in two connected eutrophic streams to determine how algae and cyanobacteria varied in response to a shift from tertiary (P removal) to BNR (N and P removal) wastewater treatment.

Phytoplankton were sampled biweekly at nine stations May to September and were analysed using generalised additive models (GAMs) to quantify landscape patterns of phototrophs and identify potential causal relationships both before (2010–2012) and after (2017–2019) BNR installation in 2016.

Analysis with GAMs showed that 69%–79% of deviance in phytoplankton abundance and composition could be explained by date‐ and site‐specific variance in stream flow, temperature, and solute concentrations (mainly nutrients), whereas similar GAMs using only effluent N content (δ15Nwater) as a predictor explainedc. 60% of phototroph deviance. Prior to BNR, phytoplankton levels (mainly chlorophytes) increased with‐rich effluent, whereas their abundance declined with δ15N after BNR (diatoms, chlorophytes).

Overall, declines in total effluent release of N (67%–97%) but not P (c. 0%) due to BNR resulted in a 52 ± 7% decline in phytoplankton abundance relative to upstream values, despite high inter‐annual variation in discharge and baseline chlorophyll a concentration.

Nitrogen removal by BNR improved water quality in N‐limited ecosystems.
Impact of protein carbonylation on the chemical characteristics of the hair surface
Authors: Masaki Hitoshi , Sinomiya Daisuke , Okano Yuri , Yoshida Masaki , Iwabuchi Tokuro
Published: October 2021

Objective

The purpose of this study was to clarify the impact of protein carbonylation on the chemical characteristics of the hair surface focusing on hydrophobicity.

Methods

First, we examined the validity of methods to evaluate hydrophobicity, one that utilizes the fluorescence of 1‐anilinonaphtalene‐8‐sulfonic acid (1,8‐ANS) compared with the contact angles against H2O, of the hair surface chemically modified by alkaline hydrolysis or treated with stearyl ammonium chloride. We measured hairs bleached with H2O2 or treated with acrolein for fluorescence originating from 1,8‐ANS, for the contact angle and for changes of functional groups, aldehydes (the degree of carbonylation), NH2, COOH and SH, using fluorescence labelling methods.

Results

The fluorescence intensity of 1,8‐ANS of the hair surface modified chemically correlated well with the contact angles against H2O. The results indicated that 1,8‐ANS is suitable for evaluating the hydrophobicity of the hair surface. The hydrophobicity of hairs bleached with H2O2 or carbonylated with acrolein was decreased. In addition, changes of functional groups in hairs carbonylated with acrolein increased as did those of hairs bleached with H2O2.

Conclusion

The results suggest that the carbonylation of proteins at the hair surface with aldehydes decreases hydrophobicity and promotes further damage as does bleaching.
Characterisation of beta‐lactoglobulin/sodium alginate dry films
Authors: Báez Germán D. , Llopart Emilce E. , Berino Romina P. , Moro Andrea , Verdini Roxana A. , Busti Pablo A. , Delorenzi Néstor J.
Published: October 2021

Optimum beta‐lactoglobulin/sodium alginate dry films (β‐LG/SA(S)) formed from casting solutions containing β‐LG 1.25% (w/v) and SA 1% (w/v) showed appropriate characteristics to be easily handled. SEM micrographs showed a less homogeneous microstructure of this films respect to sodium alginate dry films used as control (SA(F)). Tensile strength of 18 MPa and an elongation value of 5% were obtained for β‐LG/SA(S). DSC thermograms did not demonstrate changes in thermal properties of SA in presence of β‐LG. Studies based on fluorescence quenching by acrylamide did not show variations in the tertiary structure of β‐LG when β‐LG/SA(S) were dissolved in an aqueous environment. In addition, binding properties of the protein were similar to the native one when an alquilsulfonate compound was used as ligand. The maintenance of native binding properties of β‐LG after the films’ dissolution would allow the development of new carriers for food bioactive compounds based on β‐LG/SA(S) dry films.
A review on instant controlled pressure drop technology – a strategic tool for extraction of bioactive compounds
Authors: Chaudhary Nisha , Dangi Priya , Chaudhary Vandana , Dewan Aastha , Sharma Sujata Pandit , Poonia Amrita , Kumar Manoj
Published: October 2021

Bioactive compounds are the naturally derived extra‐nutritional components with diversified arrangement and functionality, which makes them a promising source for the fabrication of functional foods, nutraceuticals and food additives. Extraction of these compounds by traditional techniques is a cumbersome process, which yields product with compromised quality and poor efficiency besides huge investment in terms of energy and time. This urges an acute need to develop an improved method that ensures the nutritional and organoleptic quality of these bioactive components is better preserved. Instant controlled pressure drop is one such novel and sustainable technique that allows the raw materials to be treated at high pressure and temperature first and latterly followed by an abrupt pressure drop towards a vacuum. The induced thermo‐mechanical effects in the sample ensure boost in availability and extractability of high‐value bioactive compounds. This technique has found numerous applications in food industry such as a pre‐treatment in drying and freezing of food product, enhanced extraction of bioactive compounds and to improve the colour, odour and texture quality of a variety of food products. This review article will emphasise on all these aspects of instant controlled pressure drop technology.
The effect of auxins on amelioration of heat stress‐induced wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grain loss
Authors: Abeysingha Dhanuja N. , Ozga Jocelyn A. , Strydhorst Sheri , Doyle Patrick , Iqbal Muhammad , Yang Rong‐Cai , Reinecke Dennis M.
Published: October 2021

High temperature stress during the reproductive growth stage of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) can cause extensive yield losses. As the plant hormone auxin is a key regulator of reproductive development, we studied the effect of auxins on grain yield in five wheat lines exposed to moderate heat stress (34–35°C) for 6 h per day for 6 days during early flowering (booting stage to anthesis). ‘CDC Go’, a semi‐dwarf (Rht‐B1b) cultivar, responded to auxin application (1 µM) by producing higher grain number and yield under control and heat stress conditions. The effect of five different auxins on grain yield in ‘CDC Go’ was dependent on spike developmental stage at application and position within the spike, with 4‐Cl‐IAA at 1 µM being the most effective auxin treatment. The presence of Rht dwarfing mutant alleles of Rht‐B1 and Rht‐D1 alone did not increase auxin‐induced grain yield when tested in lines isogenic for these alleles. In the field, 4‐Cl‐IAA (1 µM) increased grain yield by 6%–8% only in ‘CDC Go’, one of six hard red spring wheat cultivars tested over two growing seasons in the western Canadian prairies. When 4‐Cl‐IAA application increased grain yield and number, the grain protein content was not affected; when it maintained grain yield in plants with lower biomass, grain protein content was reduced. Our field results suggested that both genotype and environment affect auxin‐induced enhancement of wheat grain yield. We recommend testing target environments with heat stress as a focus of a breeding programme along with further testing of auxin as a crop enhancement tool.
Surface structure and quenching effects in BiFeO3‐BaTiO3 ceramics
Authors: Wang Bing , Li Yizhe , Hall David A.
Published: October 2021

The structure and properties of Mn‐doped 0.67BiFeO3‐0.33BaTiO3 ceramics are systematically investigated with respect to the effects of annealing prior to rapid cooling by quenching in air. Air‐quenching induces a change in crystal structure from pseudo‐cubic to rhombohedral, with higher quenching temperatures leading to an increased rhombohedral distortion. These structural changes are correlated with the appearance of more well‐defined ferroelectric domain configurations. It is shown that the surface preparation procedures for XRD measurements can induce significant changes in the peak profiles, indicating differences in crystal structure between the surface and bulk regions. Frequency dispersion in the temperature‐dependent relative permittivity for the as‐sintered sample is significantly reduced after quenching, accompanied by enhancement of the Curie point and improved temperature‐stability of piezoelectric properties. It is proposed that the formation of defect clusters by A‐site cation diffusion during cooling is circumvented by quenching, leading to the observed modification of structural distortion and ferroelectric properties.
Novel approach to intracardiac defibrillator placement in patients with atriopulmonary Fontan: Ventricular defibrillation with an atrial positioned ICD lead
Authors: Padanilam Mathew S. , Ahmed Asim S. , Clark Brad A. , Mozes Joshua I. , Steinberg Leonard A.
Published: October 2021

Introduction

The Fontan procedure, used to palliate univentricular physiology, eliminates direct venous access to the ventricle and complicates implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) placement.

Methods and Results

We describe two patients with Fontan palliation who underwent a novel transvenous approach to ICD placement. The approach uses a transvenous bipolar lead placed in a coronary sinus branch for ventricular sensing, and a defibrillation lead placed in the right atrium for atrial sensing and ventricular defibrillation.

Conclusion

Transvenous ICD implantation is possible in some patients with an atriopulmonary Fontan. This approach avoids a redo sternotomy for epicardial leads and excludes the need for lead placement in the systemic circulation.
His‐Purkinje conduction system pacing: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis in bradycardia and conduction disorders
Authors: Qu Qiang , Sun Jin‐Yu , Zhang Zhen‐Ye , Kan Jun‐Yan , Wu Li‐Da , Li Feng , Wang Ru‐Xing
Published: October 2021

Background

His‐Purkinje conduction system pacing (HPCSP) has emerged as an effective alternative to overcome the limitations of right ventricular pacing (RVP) via physiological left ventricular activation, but there remains a paucity of comparative information for His bundle pacing (HBP) and left bundle branch pacing (LBBP).

Methods

A Bayesian random‐effects network analysis was conducted to compare the relative effects of HBP, LBBP, and RVP in patients with bradycardia and conduction disorders. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were systematically searched from database inception until September 21, 2021.

Results

Twenty‐eight studies involving 4160 patients were included in this meta‐analysis. LBBP significantly improved success rate, pacing threshold, pacing impedance, and R‐wave amplitude compared with HBP. LBBP also demonstrated a nonsignificant trend towards superior outcomes of lead complications, heart failure hospitalization, atrial fibrillation, and all‐cause death. However, HBP was associated with significantly shorter paced QRS duration relative to LBBP. Despite higher success rates, shorter procedure/fluoroscopy duration, and fewer lead complications, patients receiving RVP were more likely to experience reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, longer paced QRS duration, and higher rates of heart failure hospitalization than those receiving HPCSP. No statistical differences were observed in the remaining outcome measures.

Conclusions

This network meta‐analysis demonstrates the efficacy and safety of HPCSP for the treatment of bradycardia and conduction disorders, with differences in pacing parameters, electrophysiology characteristics, and clinical outcomes between HBP and LBBP. Larger‐scale, long‐term comparative studies are warranted for further verification.
Characterization of the electrophysiological substrate in patients with Barlow's disease
Authors: Vergara Pasquale , Scarfò Iside , Esposito Antonio , Colantoni Caterina , Palmisano Anna , Altizio Savino , Falasconi Giulio , Pannone Luigi , Lapenna Elisabetta , Gulletta Simone , Alfieri Ottavio , Castiglioni Alessandro , Maisano Francesco , De Bonis Michele , Della Bella Paolo , La Canna Giovanni
Published: October 2021

Background

Myxomatous mitral valve prolapse (MVP) and mitral‐annular disjunction (Barlow disease) are at‐risk for ventricular arrhythmias (VA). Fibrosis involving the papillary muscles and/or the infero‐basal left ventricular (LV) wall was reported at autopsy in sudden cardiac death (SCD) patients with MVP.

Objectives

We investigated the electrophysiological substrate subtending VA in MVP patients with Barlow disease phenotype.

Methods

Twenty‐three patients with VA were enrolled, including five with syncope and four with a history of SCD. Unipolar (Uni < 8.3 mV) and bipolar (Bi < 1.5 mV) low‐voltage areas were analyzed with electro‐anatomical mapping (EAM), and VA inducibility was evaluated with programmed ventricular stimulation (PES). Electrophysiological parameters were correlated with VA patterns, electrocardiogram (ECG) inferior negative T wave (nTW), and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance.

Results

Premature ventricular complex (PVC) burden was 12 061.9 ± 12 994.6/24 h with a papillary‐muscle type (PM‐PVC) in 18 patients (68%). Twelve‐lead ECG showed nTW in 12 patients (43.5%). A large Uni less than 8.3 mV area (62.4 ± 45.5 cm2) was detected in the basal infero‐lateral LV region in 12 (73%) patients, and in the papillary muscles (2.2 ± 2.9 cm2) in 5 (30%) of 15 patients undergoing EAM. A concomitant Bi less than 1.5 mV area (5.0 ± 1.0 cm2) was identified in two patients. A history of SCD, and the presence of nTW, and LGE were associated with a greater Uni less than 8.3 mV extension: (32.8 ± 3.1 cm2 vs. 9.2 ± 8.7 cm2), nTW (20.1 ± 11.0 vs. 4.1 ± 3.8 cm2), and LGE (19.2 ± 11.7 cm2 vs. 1.0 ± 2.0 cm2, p = .013), respectively. All patients with PM‐PVC had a Uni less than 8.3 mV area. Sustained VA (ventricular tachycardia 2 and VF 2) were induced by PES only in four patients (one with resuscitated SCD).

Conclusions

Low unipolar low voltage areas can be identified with EAM in the basal inferolateral LV region and in the papillary muscles as a potential electrophysiological substrate for VA and SCD in patients with MVP and Barlow disease phenotype.
Ventricular arrhythmia ablation in the presence of mechanical valve utilization and complications of catheter ablation for ventricular arrhythmia in patients with mechanical prosthetic valves
Authors: Rozen Guy , Elbaz‐Greener Gabby , Andria Nizar , Heist E. Kevin , Ruskin Jeremy N. , Wijeysundera Harindra C. , Carasso Shemy , Birati Edo , Amir Offer , Marai Ibrahim
Published: October 2021

Background

Catheter ablation (CA) for ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) is increasingly utilized in recent years. We aimed to investigate the nationwide trends in utilization and procedural complications of CA for VAs in patients with mechanical valve (MV) prosthesis.

Methods

We drew data from the US National Inpatient Sample database to identify cases of VA ablations, including premature ventricular contraction and ventricular tachycardia, in patients with MVs, between 2003 and 2015. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected and the incidence of catheter ablation complications, mortality, and length of stay were analyzed. We compared the outcomes to a propensity‐matched cohort of patients without prior valve surgery.

Results

The study population included a weighted total of 647 CA cases in patients with prior MVs. The annual number of ablations almost doubled, from 34 ablations on average during the “early years” (2003–2008) to 64 on average during the “late years” (2009–2015) of the study (p = .001). Length of stay at the hospital did not differ significantly between patients with MVs and 649 matched patients without prior MVs (5.4 ± 0.4, 4.7 ± 0.3 days, respectively, p = .12). The data revealed a trend toward a higher incidence of complications (12.6% vs. 7.5% respectively, p = .14) and mortality (3.7% vs. 0.7%, respectively, p = .087) among patients with MVs compared to the matched control group, not reaching statistical significance.

Conclusion

The data show increased utilization of VA ablations in patients with MVs and a trend toward a higher incidence of in‐hospital mortality and complications compared to the propensity‐matched control group without MVs.
Effect of DrOnedarone on atrial fibrosis progression and atrial fibrillation recurrence postablation: Design of the EDORA randomized clinical trial
Authors: Marrouche Nassir F. , Dagher Lilas , Wazni Oussama , Akoum Nazem , Mansour Moussa , El Hajjar Abdel Hadi , Bhatnagar Arezu , Hua He ,   the EDORA Investigators
Published: October 2021

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after catheter ablation is associated with worse outcomes and quality of life. Left atrial (LA) structural remodeling provides the essential substrate for AF perpetuation. Baseline extent and the progression of LA fibrosis after ablation are strong predictors of postprocedural AF recurrence. Dronedarone is an antiarrhythmic drug proven to efficiently maintain sinus rhythm.

Objective

We sought to investigate the effect of the antiarrhythmic drug Dronedarone in decreasing LA fibrosis progression and AF recurrence after ablation of AF patients.

Methods

EDORA (NCT04704050) is a multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial. Patients with persistent or paroxysmal AF undergoing AF ablation will be randomized into Dronedarone versus placebo/standard of care. The co‐primary outcomes are the recurrence of atrial arrhythmias (AA) within 13 months of follow‐up after ablation and the progression of left atrial fibrosis postablation. All patients will receive a late‐gadolinium enhancement magnetic resonance imaging at baseline, 3‐ and 12‐month follow‐up for the quantification of LA fibrosis and ablation‐related scarring. AA recurrence and burden will be assessed using a 30‐day ECG patch every 3 months with daily ECG recordings in between. Quality of life improvement is assessed using the AFEQT and AFSS questionnaires.

Conclusion

EDORA will be the first trial to assess the progression of LA structural remodeling after ablation and its association with Dronedarone treatment and ablation success in a randomized controlled fashion. The trial will provide insight into the pathophysiology of AF recurrence after ablation and may provide potential therapeutic targets to optimize procedural outcomes.
Effects of eicosapentaenoic acid on serum levels of selenoprotein P and organ‐specific insulin sensitivity in humans with dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Takeshita Yumie , Teramura Chisato , Kamoshita Kyoko , Takayama Hiroaki , Nakagawa Hiromi , Enyama Yasufumi , Ishii Kiyo‐Aki , Tanaka Takeo , Goto Hisanori , Nakano Yujiro , Osada Sachie , Tanaka Yoshiaki , Tokuyama Kumpei , Takamura Toshinari
Published: October 2021

Aim

Selenoprotein P (SeP, encoded by SELENOP in humans) is a hepatokine that causes insulin resistance in the liver and skeletal muscle. It was found that polyunsaturated fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) downregulates Selenop expression by inactivating SREBP‐1c. The present study aimed to examine the effect of EPA for 12 weeks on circulating SeP levels and insulin sensitivity in humans with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

A total of 20 participants with dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to an EPA (900 mg, twice daily) group and a control group. The primary endpoint was a change in serum SeP levels. Organ‐specific insulin sensitivity in the liver (HGP and %HGP), skeletal muscle (Rd), and adipose tissue (FFA and %FFA) were assessed using a hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamp study with stable isotope‐labeled glucose infusion.

Results

Serum SeP levels were not changed in either group at the end of the study. In the EPA group, the changes in SeP levels were positively correlated with the change in serum EPA levels (r = 0.709, P = 0.022). Treatment with EPA significantly enhanced %FFA but not %HGP and Rd. The change in serum EPA levels was significantly positively correlated with the change in %HGP, and negatively correlated with changes in Rd.

Conclusions

The change in serum EPA levels was positively correlated with serum SeP levels, hepatic insulin sensitivity, and negatively with skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity in humans with type 2 diabetes. The EPA‐induced enhancement of hepatic insulin sensitivity might be associated with a mechanism independent of serum SeP levels.
Phenotypic plasticity drives phenological changes in a Mediterranean blue tit population
Authors: Biquet Juliette , Bonamour Suzanne , de Villemereuil Pierre , de Franceschi Christophe , Teplitsky Céline
Published: October 2021

Earlier phenology induced by climate change, such as the passerines' breeding time, is observed in many natural populations. Understanding the nature of such changes is key to predict the responses of wild populations to climate change. Genetic changes have been rarely investigated for laying date, though it has been shown to be heritable and under directional selection, suggesting that the trait could evolve. In a Corsican blue tit population, the birds' laying date has significantly advanced over 40 years, and we here determine whether this response is of plastic or evolutionary origin, by comparing the predictions of the breeder's and the Robertson‐Price (STS) equations, to the observed genetic changes. We compare the results obtained for two fitness proxies (fledgling and recruitment success), using models accounting for their zero inflation. Because the trait appears heritable and under directional selection, the breeder's equation predicts that genetic changes could drive a significant part of the phenological change observed. We, however, found that fitness proxies and laying date are not genetically correlated. The STS, therefore, predicts no evolution of the breeding time, predicting correctly the absence of trend in breeding values. Our results also emphasize that when investigating selection on a plastic trait under fluctuating selection, part of the fitness‐trait phenotypic covariance can be due to within individual covariance. In the case of repeated measurements, splitting within and between individual covariance can shift our perspective on the actual intensity of selection over multiple selection episodes, shedding light on the potential for the trait to evolve.
Genomically correlated trait combinations and antagonistic selection contributing to counterintuitive genetic patterns of adaptive diapause divergence in Rhagoletis flies
Authors: Calvert McCall B. , Doellman Meredith M. , Feder Jeffrey L. , Hood Glen R. , Meyers Peter , Egan Scott P. , Powell Thomas H. Q. , Glover Mary M. , Tait Cheyenne , Schuler Hannes , Berlocher Stewart H. , Smith James J. , Nosil Patrik , Hahn Daniel A. , Ragland Gregory J.
Published: October 2021

Adaptation to novel environments can result in unanticipated genomic responses to selection. Here, we illustrate how multifarious, correlational selection helps explain a counterintuitive pattern of genetic divergence between the recently derived apple‐ and ancestral hawthorn‐infesting host races of Rhagoletis pomonella (Diptera: Tephritidae). The apple host race terminates diapause and emerges as adults earlier in the season than the hawthorn host race, to coincide with the earlier fruiting phenology of their apple hosts. However, alleles at many loci associated with later emergence paradoxically occur at higher frequencies in sympatric populations of the apple compared to the hawthorn race. We present genomic evidence that historical selection over geographically varying environmental gradients across North America generated genetic correlations between two life history traits, diapause intensity and diapause termination, in the hawthorn host race. Moreover, the loci associated with these life history traits are concentrated in genomic regions in high linkage disequilibrium (LD). These genetic correlations are antagonistic to contemporary selection on local apple host race populations that favours increased initial diapause depth and earlier, not later, diapause termination. Thus, the paradox of apple flies appears due, in part, to pleiotropy or linkage of alleles associated with later adult emergence and increased initial diapause intensity, the latter trait strongly selected for by the earlier phenology of apples. Our results demonstrate how understanding of multivariate trait combinations and the correlative nature of selective forces acting on them can improve predictions concerning adaptive evolution and help explain seemingly counterintuitive patterns of genetic diversity in nature.
Wear behavior of current computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturing composites and reinforced high performance polymers: An in vitro study
Authors: Diken Turksayar Almira Ada , Hisarbeyli Duygu , Seçkin Kelten Özlem , Bulucu Naime Bilinç
Published: October 2021

Objective

To analyze the wear rate of computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) composites, polyetheretherketones and glass ceramics.

Material and Methods

Our study groups were prepared from two different resin‐based composites (Brillant Crios, Cerasmart), a glass ceramic (IPS Emax CAD) and reinforced polyetheretherketone (BioHPP) material (n = 10). Premolar teeth were used as antagonists. The specimens, which were subjected to two body wear tests (240,000 cycles, 1.2 Hz, 50N) in the chewing simulator, were scanned with a 3D laser scanner both before and after the wear test. Volume loss and wear depth were determined by means of the obtained images software program. The wear pattern was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Kruskal Wallis test served for analyzing.

Results

The least volume loss and wear depth were seen in the polyetheretherketone material (0.06 ± 0.04 mm3, 0.02 ± 0.01 mm), while the maximum volume loss was seen in the groups containing resin‐based composite. (p = 0.05). The volume loss value in glass ceramics is between CAD/CAM composites and polyetheretherketone.

Conclusion

The behavior of polyetheretherketone against enamel was different from glass ceramics and composite materials in terms of the amount of wear.

Clinical Significance

Polyetheretheketone can be considered as an alternative to other chairside materials in terms of wear resistance.
Does preemptive transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt improve survival after acute variceal bleeding? Systematic review, meta‐analysis, and trial sequential analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Hussain Ikram , Wong Yu Jun , Lohan Rahul , Lin Su , Kumar Rahul
Published: October 2021

Background and Aim

A preemptive transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (p‐TIPSS) after acute variceal bleeding (AVB) is advocated. However, when compared with the current standard of care, the survival benefit of p‐TIPSS is questionable. We performed a systematic review, meta‐analysis, and trial sequential analysis of randomized control trials (RCTs) to assess the survival benefit of p‐TIPSS in patients with cirrhosis and AVB.

Methods

Comprehensive literature search of three bibliographic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane) was conducted from inception till May 2021. All study types evaluating the survival benefit of p‐TIPSS in AVB were considered for inclusion. The relative risk (RR) of mortality and rebleeding at 6 weeks and mortality at 1 year with a random‐effects model was computed. Trial sequential analysis was performed for the primary outcome of 6‐week mortality.

Results

A total of nine studies (four RCTs and five cohort studies) comprising 2861 patients with AVB were included. The overall pooled risks of mortality at 6 weeks and 1 year were 17.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 16.5–19.3%) and 26.7% (95% CI: 25.0–28.3%), respectively. Although p‐TIPSS was associated with lower 6‐week rebleeding risk (RR = 0.20; 95% CI = 0.13–0.29, I2 = 0%), data from pooled RCTs showed no significant difference in mortality at 6 weeks (RR = 0.33; 95% CI = 0.08–1.36, I2 = 63%) or at 1 year (RR = 0.76; 95% CI = 0.51–1.14, I2 = 30%). Using trial sequential analysis, required sample size to detect a 20% relative risk reduction in mortality at 6 weeks with p‐TIPSS was estimated to be 6317, which is beyond the total number of patients available for analysis.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis found that the available data from RCTs are insufficient to confer 6‐week mortality benefit with p‐TIPSS compared with standard of care; thus, adequately powered RCTs are required.
Toward a postbiotic era of microbiome science: Opportunities to advance immunotherapies for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Nakatsu Geicho
Published: October 2021

The microbiome has revolutionized the field of cancer immunology and checkpoint therapeutics for gastrointestinal malignancies. Combating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) is a unique challenge due in part to chronic complications that arise from local and systemic metabolic dysfunctions. Gut microbial metabolites modulate key immunological processes that influence liver cancer susceptibility and resistance to ICB. This review discusses recent progresses in linking microbiota functions to HCC tumor immunity and highlights their therapeutic potential.
Fluid‐driven transformation of blueschist to vein eclogite during the Early Eocene in a subducted sliver of continental crust (Monte Emilius, Italian Western Alps)
Authors: Weber Sebastian , Hauke Matthias , Martinez Raul E. , Redler Charlotte , Münker Carsten , Froitzheim Nikolaus
Published: October 2021

In the Penninic nappe stack of the Western Alps, high‐ to ultrahigh‐pressure metamorphic ophiolites of the Zermatt‐Saas Zone are associated with slivers of continental crust. In one of these slivers, Monte Emilius, the overprinting of pre‐Alpine granulite‐facies rocks by subduction‐related, Alpine eclogite‐facies metamorphism can be studied. Mafic granulites were initially transformed into blueschists. In a second step, shear zones were developed in which the blueschists recrystallized to fine‐grained, foliated glaucophane eclogites, and eclogite veins. The combination of petrographic and field observations as well as whole‐rock compositions suggests that the eclogite assemblage formed only in shear zones where Ca‐metasomatism induced a change in major element composition. These substantial differences in bulk rock composition demonstrate how spatially limited eclogitization may be controlled by chemical redistribution, the degree of fabric development, and associated metamorphic reactions along fluid pathways. Thermodynamic modelling of selected bulk rock compositions yielded only slightly different conditions of 1.8 ± 0.1 GPa/550 ± 50°C for blueschist and 1.9–2.3 GPa/550 ± 50°C for eclogite, constraining Ca‐rich fluid infiltration and transformation to a depth of ~60–70 km. Eclogitization occurred in the Early Eocene at 52.96 ± 0.91 Ma, as indicated by a well‐defined Lu–Hf garnet isochron.
First visualisation of bacterial biofilms in 3D porous media with neutron microtomography without contrast agent
Authors: Rolland du Roscoat Sabine , Ivankovic Tomislav , Lenoir Nicolas , Dekic Svjetlana , Martins Jean M.F. , Geindreau Christian
Published: October 2021

Characterising bacterial biofilm growth in porous media is important for developing reliable numerical models of biofouling in industrial biofilters. One of the promising imaging methods to do that has been a recent successful application of X‐ray microtomography. However, this technique requires a contrast agent (1‐chloronaphtalene, for example) to distinguish biofilm from the liquid phase, which raises concern about biofilm disruption and impaired image interpretation. To overcome these drawbacks, we tested a new approach based on neutron tomography (NT), which does not need a contrast agent, by imaging two types of porous media (polytetrafluoroethylene – PTFE – and clay beads of various diameters) in glass or PTFE tubes in which bacterial biofilms were grown for 7 days and by comparing these images with the ones obtained with X‐ray microtomography. NT images showed that the biofilm formed preferentially around the beads and at bead/bead interface. Visual comparison of both imaging techniques showed consistent biofilm spatial distributions and that the contrasting agent did not significantly disrupt the biofilm. NT images, on the other hand, were still too noisy to allow quantitative measurements. Therefore, X‐ray microtomography (provided it uses non‐disruptive contrast agents) seems to provide more reliable microstructural descriptors.
Variables Impacting the Quality of Life of Dementia Caregivers: A Data Visualization Analysis
Authors: Lippe Megan , Crowder Addison , Carter Patricia , Threadgill A. Hunter
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Visually explore the rates of and relationships between overall physical and mental health, sleep disturbances, and depression rates in a single sample of caregivers of persons with dementia, caregivers of persons with other chronic illness, and non‐caregiving adults.

Design

Exploratory descriptive study utilizing data visualization methods.

Methods

Data were analyzed from the 2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System dataset. Multiple graphs and charts were developed to visualize data between groups. Descriptive statistics analyzed the rates of variables of interest across the three groups. One‐way analysis of variance assessed relationships between variables.

Results

Caregivers of persons with dementia and of other chronic illnesses reported poorer health outcomes as compared to non‐caregiving adults. However, caregivers of persons with other chronic illnesses reported the worst outcomes of all groups. Depression and sleep disturbances were prevalent in all three groups.

Conclusions

The quality of life of caregivers of persons with dementia and chronic illness is impacted by poorer health outcomes, specifically mental health and sleep.

Clinical Relevance

Findings support the need for caregiver‐specific interventions that target overall physical and mental health, depression, and sleep disturbances. However, we also found support for mental health and sleep interventions for all individuals.
Historical grounding, political contexts, material hurdles: Towards more in‐depth understandings of ‘finance going farming’
Authors: Sippel Sarah Ruth
Published: October 2021

Two recently published books—Fairbairn's Fields of Gold and Ouma's Farming as a Financial Asset—now provide the first extensive investigations into finance's engagement with farmland. Both books set out to understand finance's growing interest in farmland from the perspective of the financial actors involved, and inquire how, why, and with what kind of challenges ‘finance has been going farming.’ This review essay discusses the two books in the context of the ‘land rush’ literature. It outlines how they contribute to an advanced understanding of the financialization of farmland in three ways, by (i) embedding finance‐farmland intersections historically; (ii) scrutinizing the role of the state within financial farmland investments; and (iii) exploring the hurdles involved in ‘marrying’ finance with farmland. I then critically reflect on the areas that have not been covered by the authors. Critical agrarian studies need to investigate how financialization intersects with the digitization of agriculture, examine life expectancies and afterlives of financialized farms, further ground financial investment in concrete rural spaces, and explore individual motivations and belief systems of its proponents more seriously.
Can thiol‐disulfide balance be an indicator of oxidative stress for hyperhidrosis?
Authors: Akbaş Ayşe , Kılınç Fadime
Published: October 2021

Background

Hyperhidrosis is responsible for various causes. The increased reactive oxygen radical production with insufficient antioxidant mechanism capacity may play a role in the etiopathogenesis of hyperhidrosis. It is probable to gather data about oxidative stress by detecting plasma thiol/disulfide ratio.

The aim of this study was to determine whether thiol‐disulfide balance changes in patients with hyperhidrosis.

Methods

The files of patients who were diagnosed with hyperhidrosis in the dermatology outpatient clinic between 2015 and 2018 and whose native thiol, total thiol, and disulfide values were examined for any reason were examined.

Results

Seventy‐three patients were included in the study. 33 of the patients with hyperhidrosis were primary.

Mean age; for primary hyperhidrosis patients (PHH) = 26.36 ± 7.61, primary hyperhidrosis (PHH) control group = 27.16 ± 7.94; secondary hyperhidrosis (SHH) patients = 47.88 ± 12.29, SHH control (45.40 ± 12.02). The native thiol values of PHH (469.93 ± 56.82 μmol/L) were higher than SHH (440.64 ± 62.72) (p = 0.024).

However, as a result of thiol‐disulfide comparison between hyperhidrosis patients (PHH and SHH) and control groups, disulfide levels increased (p = 0.04). In the PHH group, total thiol was measured as 512 ± 54.84 μmol/L, and SHH was measured as 484.11 ± 58.9 μmol/L, (p = 0.074).

Conclusion

Serum thiol levels in SHH increased more than PHH. As a result of thiol‐disulfide comparison between hyperhidrosis patients and control groups, the balance shifted in favor of disulfide and oxidative side.
Are human resource practices the key to managing job burnout in New Zealand nurses? Testing a path model
Authors: Haar Jarrod , Mowat Rebecca M.
Published: October 2021

Aim

To explore if human resource practices are the key to manage job burnout in nurses.

Objective

To determine if human resource practices provide more meaningful work to nurses, subsequently leading to enhanced work–life balance and lower job burnout (emotional exhaustion and cynicism).

Background

Job burnout is a global phenomenon, particularly relevant in the nursing profession due to pressures within the health sector. Job burnout is also a result of nurses not balancing work with their life roles and maintaining meaning in one's work. High‐performance systems are tools that hospital human resource departments can use to increase core employee factors that ultimately reduce the risk of job burnout.

Methods

Using cross‐sectional data from 114 New Zealand nurses, we tested a path model to distinguish whether human resource practices can influence job burnout, with meaningful work and work–life balance mediating. The data were analysed using structural equation modelling and indirect effects for mediating. This research adhered to the STROBE Statement.

Results

Human resource practices are positively related to meaningful work and work–life balance, and meaningful work was positively related to work–life balance and negatively related to cynicism. Finally, work–life balance is negatively related to emotional exhaustion and cynicism.

Conclusions

Given the influence of human resource practices on job burnout is fully mediated by meaningful work and work–life balance, indicating that managing job burnout is best understood via human resource practices enhancing nurses meaning from work and role balance, which subsequently reduces job burnout.

Relevance to clinical practice

Human resource practices can enhance work factors, such as meaningful work and work–life balance, that can enable nurses to have reduced job burnout. This will help prevent cynicism, exhaustion and will therefore prevent absenteeism, enhance performance and overall aid long‐term employment benefitting not only patients but hospitals.
Evaluation of and the prognostic factors for cats with big kidney‐little kidney syndrome
Authors: Wu Yen‐Tse , Hung Wan‐Chu , Huang Po‐Yao , Tsai Han‐Ju , Wu Ching‐Ho , Lee Ya‐Jane
Published: October 2021

Background

The term big kidney‐little kidney syndrome in cats has been used for many years, but the definitions are not consistent and relevant research is limited.

Objective

To determine the factors that differ between normal and BKLK cats, as well as to develop models for predicting the 30‐day survival of cats with ureteral obstruction (UO).

Animals

Sixteen healthy cats and 64 cats with BKLK.

Methods

Retrospective study. To define BKLK by reference to data from clinically healthy cats. The demographic and clinicopathological data among groups were statistically analyzed.

Results

Big kidney‐little kidney syndrome cats had higher blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (median [interquartile range] 69 [28‐162] vs 21 [19–24] mg/dL,P < .001), creatinine (5.6 [1.9‐13.3] vs 1.3 [1.05‐1.40] mg/dL,P < .001), and white blood cells (10 800 [7700‐17 500] vs 6500 [4875‐9350] /μL,P < .001) and lower hematocrit (32.8 [27.1‐38.4] vs 39.1 [38.1‐40.4]%,P < .001), urine specific gravity (1.011 [1.009‐1.016] vs 1.049 [1.044‐1.057],P < .001) and pH (5.88 [5.49‐6.44] vs 6.68 [6.00‐7.18],P = .001) compared to the control cats. A lower body temperature (BT; 38.1 [37.9‐38.2] vs 38.7 [38.3‐39.2]°C,P = .009), higher BUN (189 [150‐252] vs 91 [36‐170] mg/dL,P = .04), and creatinine (15.4 [13.3‐17.4] vs 9.0 [3.1‐14.2] mg/dL,P = .03) were found among the UO cats that were not 30‐day survivors. A combination of BUN, phosphorus, and BT can predict 30‐day survival among UO cats with an area under receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.863. (P = .01).

Conclusion

An increase in the length difference between kidneys can indicate UO, but cannot predict outcome for BKLK cats.