bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Traits of dominant plant species drive normalized difference vegetation index in grasslands globally
Authors: Engel Thore , Bruelheide Helge , Hoss Daniela , Sabatini Francesco M. , Altman Jan , Arfin‐Khan Mohammed A. S. , Bergmeier Erwin , Černý Tomáš , Chytrý Milan , Dainese Matteo , Dengler Jürgen , Dolezal Jiri , Field Richard , Fischer Felícia M. , Huygens Dries , Jandt Ute , Jansen Florian , Jentsch Anke , Karger Dirk N. , Kattge Jens , Lenoir Jonathan , Lens Frederic , Loos Jaqueline , Niinemets Ülo , Overbeck Gerhard E. , Ozinga Wim A. , Penuelas Josep , Peyre Gwendolyn , Phillips Oliver , Reich Peter B. , Römermann Christine , Sandel Brody , Schmidt Marco , Schrodt Franziska , Velez‐Martin Eduardo , Violle Cyrille , Pillar Valério
Published: February 2023

Aim

Theoretical, experimental and observational studies have shown that biodiversity–ecosystem functioning (BEF) relationships are influenced by functional community structure through two mutually non‐exclusive mechanisms: (1) the dominance effect (which relates to the traits of the dominant species); and (2) the niche partitioning effect [which relates to functional diversity (FD)]. Although both mechanisms have been studied in plant communities and experiments at small spatial extents, it remains unclear whether evidence from small‐extent case studies translates into a generalizable macroecological pattern. Here, we evaluate dominance and niche partitioning effects simultaneously in grassland systems world‐wide.

Location

Two thousand nine hundred and forty‐one grassland plots globally.

Time period

2000–2014.

Major taxa studied

Vascular plants.

Methods

We obtained plot‐based data on functional community structure from the global vegetation plot database “sPlot”, which combines species composition with plant trait data from the “TRY” database. We used data on the community‐weighted mean (CWM) and FD for 18 ecologically relevant plant traits. As an indicator of primary productivity, we extracted the satellite‐derived normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) from MODIS. Using generalized additive models and deviation partitioning, we estimated the contributions of trait CWM and FD to the variation in annual maximum NDVI, while controlling for climatic variables and spatial structure.

Results

Grassland communities dominated by relatively tall species with acquisitive traits had higher NDVI values, suggesting the prevalence of dominance effects for BEF relationships. We found no support for niche partitioning for the functional traits analysed, because NDVI remained unaffected by FD. Most of the predictive power of traits was shared by climatic predictors and spatial coordinates. This highlights the importance of community assembly processes for BEF relationships in natural communities.

Main conclusions

Our analysis provides empirical evidence that plant functional community structure and global patterns in primary productivity are linked through the resource economics and size traits of the dominant species. This is an important test of the hypotheses underlying BEF relationships at the global scale.
Advocacy intelligence and competition: Assessing lobbyists' sharing of tactical knowledge in focus group interviews
Authors: Junk Wiebke Marie , Berkhout Joost , Crepaz Michele , Hanegraaff Marcel
Published: February 2023

Advocacy intelligence is a critical organizational resource fostering long‐term survival and policy success. Policy‐active interest groups such as non‐profits, business associations and labor unions, seek to maintain their competitive advantage among peers and therefore have incentives to remain secretive about the details of their lobbying strategies and membership mobilization. We empirically evaluate this argument based on knowledge sharing interactions in 12 focus group interviews with approximately 50 representatives of interest groups in the Netherlands, Ireland and Denmark. Our research design manipulates the composition of the focus groups to vary the level of competition for political influence and membership among the participants. Strikingly, we find no evidence that either type of competition hampers knowledge sharing. Instead, our novel data point to three fruitful alternative explanations: the importance of socialization, mentorship and personalities of interest group leaders.
CD98 regulates the phosphorylation of HER2 and a bispecific anti‐HER2/CD98 antibody inhibits the growth signal of human breast cancer cells
Authors: Yamasaki Akitaka , Maruyama‐Takahashi Kumiko , Nishida Kento , Okazaki Shogo , Okita Kouki , Akiyama Yasutoshi , Suzuki Hideaki , Endo Yuichi , Masuko Kazue , Masuko Takashi , Tomioka Yoshihisa
Published: February 2023

Human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family proteins are currently major targets of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies against various epithelial cancers. However, the resistance of cancer cells to HER family‐targeted therapies, which may be caused by cancer heterogeneity and persistent HER phosphorylation, often reduces overall therapeutic effects. We herein showed that a newly discovered molecular complex between CD98 and HER2 affected HER function and cancer cell growth. The immunoprecipitation of the HER2 or HER3 protein from lysates of SKBR3 breast cancer (BrCa) cells revealed the HER2‐CD98 or HER3‐CD98 complex. The knockdown of CD98 by small interfering RNAs inhibited the phosphorylation of HER2 in SKBR3 cells. A bispecific antibody (BsAb) that recognized the HER2 and CD98 proteins was constructed from a humanized anti‐HER2 (SER4) IgG and an anti‐CD98 (HBJ127) single chain variable fragment, and this BsAb significantly inhibited the cell growth of SKBR3 cells. Prior to the inhibition of AKT phosphorylation, BsAb inhibited the phosphorylation of HER2, however, significant inhibition of HER2 phosphorylation was not observed in anti‐HER2 pertuzumab, trastuzumab, SER4 or anti‐CD98 HBJ127 in SKBR3 cells. The dual targeting of HER2 and CD98 has potential as a new therapeutic strategy for BrCa.
TEXTS AND TRADITIONS IN CHINESE AND COMPARATIVE PHILOSOPHY
Authors: Tan Sor‐hoon
Published: February 2023

This article considers Quentin Skinner's critique and methodology in his seminal essay “Meaning and Understanding in the History of Ideas” vis‐à‐vis the current methodological debates in Chinese and comparative philosophy. It surveys the different ways in which philosophers who work with ancient Chinese texts in those related fields deal with the tension between textual contexts and autonomy and how some of the errors criticized by Skinner under the mythology of coherence, mythology of doctrines, mythology of parochialism, and mythology of prolepsis might apply to those fields. It argues that Skinner's insistence that understanding a text requires recovering its author's intended meaning by studying its linguistic context has limited application to Chinese and comparative philosophy because those fields’ most important texts are not best understood as means of communication by specific historical authors with intended messages to convey to readers. These texts are instead the means by which Chinese traditions perpetuate their respective beliefs and practices. Instead of being circumscribed by authorial intent, the meanings of traditional texts are dynamic and co‐created in the process of producing, reproducing, and consuming texts as well as in the evolution of practices that also constitute each tradition. The meanings received by the audience are never exactly what authors or transmitters intended but have been transformed by each audience's own concerns and interests, even if the audience attempts to grasp what the former intended. Using the Five Classics and the Analects as examples, this article illustrates how such texts’ purposes to teach and perpetuate the practices that constitute a way of life determine their meanings. Understanding is not merely cognitive but practical as well. The meanings of such texts are not static but dynamic as traditions evolve. The debates about methods of reading and interpreting ancient Chinese texts are also debates about the nature of Chinese traditions and struggles over their futures.
Evaluation of environmental barrier coatings: A review
Authors: Xiao Shikang , Li Jianzhang , Huang Panxin , Zhang Antong , Tian Yuhang , Zhang Xu , Zhang Jingde , Ryu Jungho , Han Guifang
Published: February 2023

Environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) greatly improve the service performance of SiC‐based ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) in high‐temperature combustion chambers. Working environments with physical ablation, high temperature, and chemical corrosion require the performance of designed EBC materials and/or structures to be properly evaluated before their real applications. In this paper, EBCs’ lifetime‐related phase stability, chemical compatibility, and microstructure retainability are discussed. And then, evaluation methods for basic and environmental properties of EBCs are thoroughly reviewed with newly proposed methods and improved techniques. Pros and cons of each method along with some potential strategies/techniques are also provided. We hope this article can give a timely and overall review for efficient and effective evaluation of EBCs and provide guidance not only for beginners but also for seasoned researchers when they design and develop high‐performance EBC systems.
T cells engineered with full‐length NKG2D linked to signaling domains of 4‐1BB and CD3ζ show enhanced antitumor activity
Authors: Teng Xia , Rong Zhuona , Li Shance , Yang Wenjun , Lu Zheming
Published: February 2023

Since NKG2D ligands (NKG2DLs) are primarily overexpressed on multiple types of solid tumors but absent on most normal tissues, NKG2DLs could be optimal antigens for CAR‐T cells. To date, there have been two types of NKG2DL CARs: (i) the extracellular domain of NKG2D fused to the CD8a transmembrane domain, signaling domains of 4‐1BB and CD3ζ (NKBz) and (ii) full‐length NKG2D fused to the CD3ζ signaling domain (chNKz). Although NKBz‐ and chNKz‐engineered T cells both showed antitumor activities, a comparison of their functions has not been reported. In addition, use of the 4‐1BB signaling domain into the CAR construct could prolong the persistence and resistance to antitumor activities of CAR‐T cells, we designed a new NKG2DL CAR, full‐length NKG2D fused to the signaling domains of 4‐1BB and CD3ζ (chNKBz). Among the two types of NKG2DL CAR‐T cells reported in previous studies, we found that chNKz T cells had stronger antitumor ability than NKBz T cells in vitro, but their antitumor activity in vivo is similar. The chNKBz T cells showed antitumor activity superior to that of chNKz T cells and NKBz T cells in vitro and in vivo, providing a new option for the immunotherapy of NKG2DL‐positive tumor patients.
Front‐line health professionals' recognition and responses to nonfatal strangulation events: An integrative review
Authors: Donaldson Andrea Evelyn , Hurren Emily , Harvey Clare , Baldwin Adele , Solomon Bernadette
Published: February 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine how front‐line health professionals identify and manage nonfatal strangulation events.

Design

Integrative review with narrative synthesis was conducted.

Data Sources

A comprehensive database search was conducted in six electronic databases (CINAHL, Wed of Science, DISCOVER, SCOPUS, PubMed and Scholar) resulting in 49 potentially eligible full texts, reduced to 10 articles for inclusion after exclusion criteria were applied.

Review Methods

An integrative review was undertaken in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) Statement guidelines. Data were extracted, and a narrative synthesis using Whittemore and Knafl (2005) framework was undertaken to determine how front‐line health professionals identify and manage nonfatal strangulation events.

Results

The findings identified three main themes: an overall failure by health professionals to recognize nonfatal strangulation, a failure to report the event and a failure to follow up on victims after the event. Stigma and predetermined beliefs around nonfatal strangulation, along with a lack of knowledge about signs and symptoms, were the salient features in the literature.

Conclusion

Lack of training and fear of not knowing what to do next are barriers to providing care to victims of strangulation. Failure to detect, manage and support victims will continue the cycle of harm through the long‐term health effects of strangulation. Early detection and management of strangulation are essential to prevent health complications, particularly when the victims are exposed to such behaviours repeatedly.

Impact

This review appears to be the first to explore how health professionals identify and manage nonfatal strangulation. It identified the significant need for education and robust and consistent screening and discharge policies to assist health providers of services where victims of nonfatal strangulation attend.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This review contains no patient or public contribution since it was examining health professionals' knowledge of identifying nonfatal strangulation and the screening and assessment tools used in clinical practice.
Environmental and genealogical effects on DNA methylation in a widespread apomictic dandelion lineage
Authors: Ibañez Verónica Noé , van Antro Morgane , Peña‐Ponton Cristian , Milanovic‐Ivanovic Slavica , Wagemaker Cornelis A. M. , Gawehns Fleur , Verhoeven Koen J. F.
Published: February 2023

DNA methylation in plant genomes occurs in different sequences and genomic contexts that have very different properties. DNA methylation that occurs in CG (mCG) sequence context shows transgenerational stability and high epimutation rate, and can thus provide genealogical information at short time scales. However, due to meta‐stability and because mCG variants may arise due to other factors than epimutation, such as environmental stress exposure, it is not clear how well mCG captures genealogical information at micro‐evolutionary time scales. Here, we analysed DNA methylation variation between accessions from a geographically widespread, apomictic common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) lineage when grown experimentally under different light conditions. Using a reduced‐representation bisulphite sequencing approach, we show that the light treatment induced differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs) in all sequence contexts, with a bias towards transposable elements. Accession differences were associated mainly with DMCs in CG context. Hierarchical clustering of samples based on total mCG profiles revealed a perfect clustering of samples by accession identity, irrespective of light conditions. Using microsatellite information as a benchmark of genetic divergence within the clonal lineage, we show that genetic divergence between accessions correlates strongly with overall mCG profiles. However, our results suggest that environmental effects that do occur in CG context may produce a heritable signal that partly dilutes the genealogical signal. Our study shows that methylation information in plants can be used to reconstruct micro‐evolutionary genealogy, providing a useful tool in systems that lack genetic variation such as clonal and vegetatively propagated plants.
Paths to hippocampal damage in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders
Authors: Zakani Mona , Nigritinou Magdalini , Ponleitner Markus , Takai Yoshiki , Hofmann Daniel , Hillebrand Sophie , Höftberger Romana , Bauer Jan , Lasztoczi Balint , Misu Tatsuro , Kasprian Gregor , Rommer Paulus , Bradl Monika
Published: February 2023

Aims

Many patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) suffer from cognitive impairment affecting memory, processing speed and attention and suffer from depressive symptoms. Because some of these manifestations could trace back to the hippocampus, several magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies have been performed in the past, with a number of groups describing volume loss of the hippocampus in NMOSD patients, whereas others did not observe such changes. Here, we addressed these discrepancies.

Methods

We performed pathological and MRI studies on the hippocampi of NMOSD patients, combined with detailed immunohistochemical analysis of hippocampi from experimental models of NMOSD.

Results

We identified different pathological scenarios for hippocampal damage in NMOSD and its experimental models. In the first case, the hippocampus was compromised by the initiation of astrocyte injury in this brain region and subsequent local effects of microglial activation and neuronal damage. In the second case, loss of hippocampal volume was seen by MRI in patients with large tissue‐destructive lesions in the optic nerves or the spinal cord, and the pathological work‐up of tissue derived from a patient with such lesions revealed subsequent retrograde neuronal degeneration affecting different axonal tracts and neuronal networks. It remains to be seen whether remote lesions and associated retrograde neuronal degeneration on their own are sufficient to cause extensive volume loss of the hippocampus, or whether they act in concert with small astrocyte‐destructive, microglia‐activating lesions in the hippocampus that escape detection by MRI, either due to their small size or due to the chosen time window for examination.

Conclusions

Different pathological scenarios can culminate in hippocampal volume loss in NMOSD patients.
Why do plants blush when they are hungry?
Authors: Jezek Mareike , Allan Andrew C. , Jones Jeffrey J. , Geilfus Christoph‐Martin
Published: February 2023

Foliar anthocyanins, as well as other secondary metabolites, accumulate transiently under nutritional stress. A misconception that only nitrogen or phosphorus deficiency induces leaf purpling/reddening has led to overuse of fertilizers that burden the environment. Here, we emphasize that several other nutritional imbalances induce anthocyanin accumulation, and nutrient‐specific differences in this response have been reported for some deficiencies. A range of ecophysiological functions have been attributed to anthocyanins. We discuss the proposed functions and signalling pathways that elicit anthocyanin synthesis in nutrient‐stressed leaves. Knowledge from the fields of genetics, molecular biology, ecophysiology and plant nutrition is combined to deduce how and why anthocyanins accumulate under nutritional stress. Future research to fully understand the mechanisms and nuances of foliar anthocyanin accumulation in nutrient‐stressed crops could be utilized to allow these leaf pigments to act as bioindicators for demand‐oriented application of fertilizers. This would benefit the environment, being timely due to the increasing impact of the climate crisis on crop performance.
A new lineage of fresh‐ and brackish‐water mussels (Bivalvia, Mytilidae) from Southeast Asia
Authors: Tan Koh Siang , Tan Samuel H. M. , Sanpanich Kitithorn , Duangdee Teerapong , Ambarwati Reni
Published: February 2023

Three species of mussels collected from fresh‐ and low salinity (10 psu or lower) brackish‐water environments in southern Thailand, Singapore, northern Borneo and south Sulawesi formed a new, well‐supported and distinct mytilid clade based on molecular phylogeny. All are small (< 30 mm) species with either radially ribbed or smooth shells. Internally, the upper edges of the ascending lamellae of the outer and inner demibranchs are, respectively, fused to the mantle lobes and visceral mass. A new genusParabrachidontesis proposed to accommodate the three species. Of the species in the new genus, one is described as new (Parabrachidontes amnicussp. n.), and the other two poorly known species (P. leucostictusandP. cochinensis) are re‐described. TheParabrachidontesclade is closely related toMytella,PernaandArcuatula. Together, they formed a well‐supported clade, most members of which have ctenidial edges attached to the mantle and/or visceral mass. These genera are clearly distinct phylogenetically from two other mytilid clades containing brackish‐ and fresh‐water species with ctenidia free of the mantle: one comprising the generaLimnopernaandSinomytilus(together constituting the Limnoperninae), and the otherXenostrobusandVignadula(forming the Xenostrobinae). We therefore suggest the existence of at least three lineages of mytilids living in rivers and estuaries of East Asia and Australasia.
“Gender Differences in Autism”: TED Talks as Inclusive Spaces for Co-creation of Collective Memories
Authors: L Amrutha S , Christie Luke Gerard
Published: February 2023

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been historically studied, identified, and diagnosed more in males than females which can be attributed to a range of factors other than biological. The preponderance of males with autism is often associated with the Extreme Male Brain (EMB) theory which contends that this male bias is interceded by the amplification of male-biased sex differences in the expression of autism-associated traits found in typical populations. This long-held notion of attaching autism to the male gender had severely impacted the females on the spectrum leading to late diagnosis, misdiagnosis, and “masking” in order to blend in. Media also played a role in the near-exclusive portrayal of autistic people as white males which is outrageously unrepresentative of reality. The present paper analyses the narratives of self-identified autistic women about their experiences shared through TED Talks which offer both individual and collective counter-narratives to articulate new understandings. The paper attempts a qualitative interpretation of 5 such talks to demonstrate how speaking about these narratives in public and influential spaces like TED Talks de-constructs collective memories (process) and constitutes constructing La Memoire Collective between the knowledge of experience and shared memories.
Increased vesicle fusion competence underlies long-term potentiation at hippocampal mossy fiber synapses
Authors: Fukaya Ryota , Hirai Himawari , Sakamoto Hirokazu , Hashimotodani Yuki , Hirose Kenzo , Sakaba Takeshi
Published: February 2023

Presynaptic long-term potentiation (LTP) is thought to play an important role in learning and memory. However, the underlying mechanism remains elusive because of the difficulty of direct recording during LTP. Hippocampal mossy fiber synapses exhibit pronounced LTP of transmitter release after tetanic stimulation and have been used as a model of presynaptic LTP. Here, we induced LTP by optogenetic tools and applied direct presynaptic patch-clamp recordings. The action potential waveform and evoked presynaptic Ca
2+
currents remained unchanged after LTP induction. Membrane capacitance measurements suggested higher release probability of synaptic vesicles without changing the number of release-ready vesicles after LTP induction. Synaptic vesicle replenishment was also enhanced. Furthermore, stimulated emission depletion microscopy suggested an increase in the numbers of Munc13-1 and RIM1 molecules within active zones. We propose that dynamic changes in the active zone components may be relevant for the increased fusion competence and synaptic vesicle replenishment during LTP.
Bioresorbable, wireless, and battery-free system for electrotherapy and impedance sensing at wound sites
Authors: Song Joseph W. , Ryu Hanjun , Bai Wubin , Xie Zhaoqian , Vázquez-Guardado Abraham , Nandoliya Khizar , Avila Raudel , Lee Geumbee , Song Zhen , Kim Jihye , Lee Min-Kyu , Liu Yugang , Kim Mirae , Wang Huifeng , Wu Yixin , Yoon Hong-Joon , Kwak Sung Soo , Shin Jaeho , Kwon Kyeongha , Lu Wei , Chen Xuexian , Huang Yonggang , Ameer Guillermo A. , Rogers John A.
Published: February 2023

Chronic wounds, particularly those associated with diabetes mellitus, represent a growing threat to public health, with additional notable economic impacts. Inflammation associated with these wounds leads to abnormalities in endogenous electrical signals that impede the migration of keratinocytes needed to support the healing process. This observation motivates the treatment of chronic wounds with electrical stimulation therapy, but practical engineering challenges, difficulties in removing stimulation hardware from the wound site, and absence of means to monitor the healing process create barriers to widespread clinical use. Here, we demonstrate a miniaturized wireless, battery-free bioresorbable electrotherapy system that overcomes these challenges. Studies based on a splinted diabetic mouse wound model confirm the efficacy for accelerated wound closure by guiding epithelial migration, modulating inflammation, and promoting vasculogenesis. Changes in the impedance provide means for tracking the healing process. The results demonstrate a simple and effective platform for wound site electrotherapy.
PI3-kinase deletion promotes myelodysplasia by dysregulating autophagy in hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Ames Kristina , Kaur Imit , Shi Yang , Tong Meng M. , Sinclair Taneisha , Hemmati Shayda , Glushakow-Smith Shira G. , Tein Ellen , Gurska Lindsay , Steidl Ulrich , Dubin Robert , Shan Jidong , Montagna Cristina , Pradhan Kith , Verma Amit , Gritsman Kira
Published: February 2023

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a clonal malignancy arising in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). The mechanisms of MDS initiation in HSCs are still poorly understood. The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway is frequently activated in acute myeloid leukemia, but in MDS, PI3K/AKT is often down-regulated. To determine whether PI3K down-regulation can perturb HSC function, we generated a triple knockout (TKO) mouse model with
Pik3ca
,
Pik3cb
, and
Pik3cd
deletion in hematopoietic cells. Unexpectedly, PI3K deficiency caused cytopenias, decreased survival, and multilineage dysplasia with chromosomal abnormalities, consistent with MDS initiation. TKO HSCs exhibit impaired autophagy, and pharmacologic autophagy induction improved HSC differentiation. Using intracellular LC3 and P62 flow cytometry and transmission electron microscopy, we also observed abnormal autophagic degradation in patient MDS HSCs. Therefore, we have uncovered an important protective role for PI3K in maintaining autophagic flux in HSCs to preserve the balance between self-renewal and differentiation and to prevent MDS initiation.
Precision patterning: How inner hair cells “hop” to it
Authors: Webber Jemma L. , García-Añoveros Jaime
Published: February 2023

A combination of Notch-mediated lateral inhibition, mechanical forces, and differential adhesion generates a single row of alternating inner hair and supporting cells.
Oral mucosal breaks trigger anti-citrullinated bacterial and human protein antibody responses in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Brewer R. Camille , Lanz Tobias V. , Hale Caryn R. , Sepich-Poore Gregory D. , Martino Cameron , Swafford Austin D. , Carroll Thomas S. , Kongpachith Sarah , Blum Lisa K. , Elliott Serra E. , Blachere Nathalie E. , Parveen Salina , Fak John , Yao Vicky , Troyanskaya Olga , Frank Mayu O. , Bloom Michelle S. , Jahanbani Shaghayegh , Gomez Alejandro M. , Iyer Radhika , Ramadoss Nitya S. , Sharpe Orr , Chandrasekaran Sangeetha , Kelmenson Lindsay B. , Wang Qian , Wong Heidi , Torres Holly L. , Wiesen Mark , Graves Dana T. , Deane Kevin D. , Holers V. Michael , Knight Rob , Darnell Robert B. , Robinson William H. , Orange Dana E.
Published: February 2023

Periodontal disease is more common in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who have detectable anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs), implicating oral mucosal inflammation in RA pathogenesis. Here, we performed paired analysis of human and bacterial transcriptomics in longitudinal blood samples from RA patients. We found that patients with RA and periodontal disease experienced repeated oral bacteremias associated with transcriptional signatures of ISG15
+
HLADR
hi
and CD48
high
S100A2
pos
monocytes, recently identified in inflamed RA synovia and blood of those with RA flares. The oral bacteria observed transiently in blood were broadly citrullinated in the mouth, and their in situ citrullinated epitopes were targeted by extensively somatically hypermutated ACPAs encoded by RA blood plasmablasts. Together, these results suggest that (i) periodontal disease results in repeated breaches of the oral mucosa that release citrullinated oral bacteria into circulation, which (ii) activate inflammatory monocyte subsets that are observed in inflamed RA synovia and blood of RA patients with flares and (iii) activate ACPA B cells, thereby promoting affinity maturation and epitope spreading to citrullinated human antigens.
MGIT Enriched Shotgun Metagenomics for Routine Identification of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria: a Route to Personalized Health Care
Authors: Schildkraut Jodie A. , Coolen Jordy P. M. , Severin Heleen , Koenraad Ellen , Aalders Nicole , Melchers Willem J. G. , Hoefsloot Wouter , Wertheim Heiman F. L. , van Ingen Jakko
Published: February 2023

Currently, nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are identified using small genomic regions, and species-level identification is often not possible. We introduce a next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflow that identifies mycobacteria to (sub)species level on the basis of the whole genome extracted from enriched shotgun metagenomic data.
Molecular Analysis of Rabies Virus Using RNA Extracted from Used Lateral Flow Devices
Authors: Mauhay Jaira D. , Saito Nobuo , Kimitsuki Kazunori , Mananggit Milagros R. , Cruz Jeffrey L. , Lagayan Maria G. , Garcia Alyssa M. , Lacanilao Patricia M. , Yamada Kentaro , Saito-Obata Mariko , Manalo Daria L. , Demetria Catalino S. , Quiambao Beatriz P. , Nishizono Akira
Published: February 2023

Molecular analysis of rabies virus can provide accurate diagnosis and information on its genetic diversity. The transportation of rabies brain samples from remote areas to a central laboratory is challenging owing to biohazard risks and decomposability.
Whole-Genome Sequence of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Mut-3, Isolated from Indonesian Fermented Soybean (Tempeh)
Authors: Yogeswara Ida Bagus Agung , Mariyatun  , Pramesi Putrika Citta , Rahayu Endang Sutriswati
Published: February 2023

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum
Mut-3 was isolated from tempeh. After whole-genome sequencing, analysis of its possibility as a probiotic candidate was performed using subsystem analysis with RAST with the SEED viewer.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Mycobacterium chelonae subsp.
bovis
Strain Isolated from a Baikal Seal (Pusa sibirica) in Captivity
Authors: Komine Takeshi , Matsuoka Yuko , Inohana Mari , Kurata Osamu , Wada Shinpei
Published: February 2023

Mycobacterium chelonae
is a nontuberculous
mycobacterium
that causes infections in various animals, including humans. In this study, we report the draft genome sequence of
M. chelonae
subsp.
bovis
strain NJB1701, which was isolated from a Baikal seal (
Pusa sibirica
) in captivity in Japan.
Effect of Enrofloxacin on the Microbiome, Metabolome, and Abundance of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in the Chicken Cecum
Authors: Ma Boheng , Wang De , Mei Xueran , Lei Changwei , Li Cui , Wang Hongning
Published: February 2023

In this study, we investigated changes in the cecum flora, metabolites, and abundances of fluoroquinolone antibiotic resistance genes in chickens following the use of different concentrations of enrofloxacin. These results were used to determine the effects of enrofloxacin on chick physiology and the important flora and metabolites that might contribute to these effects.
Supplemental Material: Discriminating carbon dioxide sources during volcanic unrest: The case of Campi Flegrei caldera (Italy)
Authors: Buono Gianmarco , al. et
Published: February 2023

Details on mechanisms for hydrothermal calcite consumption (Figure S1) and Solfatara fumarole composition (Table S1). 
Proportion of people with diabetic retinopathy and macular oedema varies by ethnicity in a tertiary retinal clinic in Australia: findings from the Liverpool Eye and Diabetes Study (LEADS)
Authors: Liew Gerald , Tsang Tania , Marshall Bridget , Saw Mercy , Khachigian Levon Michael , Ong Stephen , Ho I-Van , Wong Vincent
Published: February 2023

Objective

There are limited data on the influence of ethnicity on diabetic retinopathy (DR). We sought to determine the distribution of DR by ethnic group in Australia.

Design

Clinic-based cross-sectional study.

Setting

Participants with diabetes in a defined geographical region of Sydney, Australia, who attended a tertiary retina referral clinic.

Participants

The study recruited 968 participants.

Intervention

Participants underwent a medical interview and retinal photography and scanning.

Primary outcome measures

DR was defined from two-field retinal photographs. Diabetic macular oedema (DMO) was defined from spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT-DMO). The main outcomes were any DR, proliferative DR (PDR), clinically significant macular oedema (CSME), OCT-DMO and sight-threatening DR (STDR).

Results

There was high proportion of any DR (52.3%), PDR (6.3%), CSME (19.7%), OCT-DMO (28.9%) and STDR (31.5%) in people attending a tertiary retinal clinic. Participants of Oceanian ethnicity had the highest proportion of any DR and STDR (70.4% and 48.1%, respectively), while the lowest proportion was in participants of East Asian ethnicity (38.3% and 15.8%, respectively). Proportion of any DR and STDR in Europeans was 54.5% and 30.3%, respectively. Independent predictive factors for diabetic eye disease were ethnicity, longer duration of diabetes, higher glycated haemoglobin and higher blood pressure. Even after adjusting for risk factors, Oceanian ethnicity remained associated with twofold higher odds of any DR (adjusted OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.10 to 4.00) and all other forms of DR including STDR (adjusted OR 2.22, 95% CI 1.19 to 4.15).

Conclusion

In people attending a tertiary retinal clinic, the proportion of people with DR varies among ethnic groups. The high proportion in persons of Oceanian ethnicity suggests a need for targeted screening of this at-risk group. In addition to traditional risks factors, ethnicity may be an additional independent predictor of DR.
Protocol for exploring the use of hospitals as a learning organisation: a cross-sectional study in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province
Authors: Chitha Nombulelo , Mabunda Sikhumbuzo A , Essel Vivien , Funani Itumeleng , Godlimpi Lizo , Swartbooi Buyiswa , Mnyaka Onke , Thabede Jahman , Tshabalala Ruth , Chitha Wezile
Published: February 2023

Introduction

In today’s highly competitive environment, where changes happen at a rapid pace, organisations that stand a chance to survive are those that are proactive and easily adapt to changes. Hospitals are faced with various challenges including scrutiny from stakeholders. This study seeks to investigate learning strategies used by hospitals in one of South Africa’s provinces to achieve the principle of a learning organisation.

Methods and analysis

This study will employ a quantitative approach using a cross-sectional survey on health professionals of a South African province. Stratified random sampling will be used to select hospitals and participants in three phases. The study will use a structured self-administered questionnaire, designed to collect data on learning strategies used by hospitals to achieve the principle of a learning organisation between June and December 2022. Descriptive statistics (mean, median, percentages, frequency, etc) will then be used to describe the raw data and allow the discovery of patterns. Inferential statistics will also be used to make inferences and predictions about the learning habits of health professionals in the selected hospitals.

Ethics and dissemination

The approval to access the research sites with reference number: EC_202108_011 has been granted by the Provincial Health Research Committees of the Eastern Cape Department. Ethical clearance with Protocol Ref no: M211004 has been approved at the Human Research Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Witwatersrand. Finally, results will be shared with all key stakeholders, including hospital management, clinical staff, through public presentation and direct engagements with stakeholders. The findings may guide hospital leaders and other relevant stakeholders to develop guidelines and policies on creating a learning organisation that contributes to the improvement of quality patient care.
Inhaled ciclesonide in adults hospitalised with COVID-19: a randomised controlled open-label trial (HALT COVID-19)
Authors: Brodin Daniel , Tornhammar Per , Ueda Peter , Krifors Anders , Westerlund Eli , Athlin Simon , Wojt Sandra , Elvstam Olof , Neumann Anca , Elshani Arsim , Giesecke Julia , Edvardsson-Källkvist Jens , Bunpuckdee Sayam , Unge Christian , Larsson Martin , Johansson Björn , Ljungberg Johan , Lindell Jonas , Hansson Johan , Blennow Ola , Andersson Daniel Peter
Published: February 2023

Objective

To assess the efficacy of inhaled ciclesonide in reducing the duration of oxygen therapy (an indicator of time to clinical improvement) among adults hospitalised with COVID-19.

Design

Multicentre, randomised, controlled, open-label trial.

Setting

9 hospitals (3 academic hospitals and 6 non-academic hospitals) in Sweden between 1 June 2020 and 17 May 2021.

Participants

Adults hospitalised with COVID-19 and receiving oxygen therapy.

Intervention

Inhaled ciclesonide 320 µg two times a day for 14 days versus standard care.

Main outcome measures

Primary outcome was duration of oxygen therapy, an indicator of time to clinical improvement. Key secondary outcome was a composite of invasive mechanical ventilation/death.

Results

Data from 98 participants were analysed (48 receiving ciclesonide and 50 receiving standard care; median (IQR) age, 59.5 (49–67) years; 67 (68%) men). Median (IQR) duration of oxygen therapy was 5.5 (3–9) days in the ciclesonide group and 4 (2–7) days in the standard care group (HR for termination of oxygen therapy 0.73 (95% CI 0.47 to 1.11), with the upper 95% CI being compatible with a 10% relative reduction in oxygen therapy duration, corresponding to a <1 day absolute reduction in a post-hoc calculation). Three participants in each group died/received invasive mechanical ventilation (HR 0.90 (95% CI 0.15 to 5.32)). The trial was discontinued early due to slow enrolment.

Conclusions

In patients hospitalised with COVID-19 receiving oxygen therapy, this trial ruled out, with 0.95 confidence, a treatment effect of ciclesonide corresponding to more than a 1 day reduction in duration of oxygen therapy. Ciclesonide is unlikely to improve this outcome meaningfully.

Trial registration number

NCT04381364.
Patient perspectives on, and effects of, medication management in geriatric fallers (the EMMA study): protocol for a mixed-methods pre-post study
Authors: Buchegger Stephanie , Iglseder Bernhard , Alzner Reinhard , Kogler Magdalena , Rose Olaf , Kutschar Patrick , Krutter Simon , Dückelmann Christina , Flamm Maria , Pachmayr Johanna
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Pharmacotherapy is critical in geriatric fallers owing to the vulnerability of this population. Comprehensive medication management can be an important strategy to reduce the medication-related risk of falling in this patient group. Patient-specific approaches and patient-related barriers to this intervention have rarely been explored among geriatric fallers. This study will focus on establishing a comprehensive medication management process to provide better insights into patients’ individual perceptions regarding their fall-related medication as well as identifying organisational and medical-psychosocial effects and challenges of this intervention.

Methods and analysis

The study design is a complementary mixed-methods pre-post study which follows the approach of an embedded experimental model. Thirty fallers aged at least 65 years who were on five or more self-managed long-term drugs will be recruited from a geriatric fracture centre. The intervention consists of a five-step (recording, reviewing, discussion, communication, documentation) comprehensive medication management, which focuses on reducing the medication-related risk of falling. The intervention is framed using guided semi-structured pre-post interventional interviews, including a follow-up period of 12 weeks. These interviews will assess patients’ perceptions of falls, medication-related risks and gauge the postdischarge acceptability and sustainability of the intervention. Outcomes of the intervention will be measured based on changes in the weighted and summated Medication Appropriateness Index score, number of fall-risk-increasing drugs and potentially inadequate medication according to the Fit fOR The Aged and PRISCUS lists. Qualitative and quantitative findings will be integrated to develop a comprehensive understanding of decision-making needs, the perspective of geriatric fallers and the effects of comprehensive medication management.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved by the local ethics committee of Salzburg County, Austria (ID: 1059/2021). Written informed consent will be obtained from all patients. Study findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and conferences.

Trial registration number

DRKS00026739.
Perioperative variable rate intravenous insulin infusion: a quality improvement project on a vascular surgery ward
Authors: Aimar Kelsey , Orozov Nikola , Spencer-Jones Keely , Burhan Hafsa , Butler Nicola , Kassim Saifuddin , Forsyth James
Published: February 2023

Aims

Variable rate intravenous insulin infusion (VRIII) is used perioperatively to maintain normoglycaemia in patients with diabetes who are undergoing surgery. The aims of this project were as follows: (1) to audit the extent to which perioperative prescribing of VRIII for diabetic vascular surgery inpatients at our hospital meets established standards and (2) to use the results of the audit to guide improvement in the quality and safety of prescribing practices and reduce VRIII overuse.

Methods

Vascular surgery inpatients who had perioperative VRIII were included in the audit. Baseline data were collected consecutively from September to November 2021. There were three main interventions: a VRIII Prescribing Checklist, education of junior doctors and ward staff, and electronic prescribing system updates. Postintervention and reaudit data were collected consecutively from March to June 2022.

Results

The number of VRIII prescriptions totalled 27 in preintervention, 18 in postintervention and 26 in reaudit periods. Prescribers used the ‘refer to paper chart’ safety check more frequently postintervention (67%) and on reaudit (77%) compared with preintervention (33%) (p=0.046). Rescue medication was prescribed in 50% of postintervention and 65% of reaudit cases compared with 0% preintervention (p<0.001). Intermediate/long-acting insulin was appropriately amended more often in the postintervention versus preintervention period (75% vs 45%, p=0.041). Overall, VRIII was appropriate for the situation in 85% of cases.

Conclusions

The quality of perioperative VRIII prescribing practices improved following the proposed interventions, with prescribers more frequently using recommended safety measures such as ‘refer to paper chart’ and rescue medication. There was a marked sustained improvement in prescriber-initiated adjustment of oral diabetes medications and insulins. VRIII is occasionally administered unnecessarily in a subset of patients with type 2 diabetes and may be an area for further study.
Social relationship satisfaction and accumulation of chronic conditions
and multimorbidity: a national cohort of Australian women
Authors: Xu Xiaolin , Mishra Gita D , Holt-Lunstad Julianne , Jones Mark
Published: February 2023

Background

Social relationships are associated with mortality and chronic
conditions. However, little is known about the effects of social
relationship satisfaction on multiple chronic conditions
(multimorbidity).

Aims

To examine whether social relationship satisfaction is associated
with the accumulation of multimorbidity.

Methods

Data from 7 694 Australian women who were free from 11 chronic
conditions at 45–50 years of age in 1996 were analysed. Five types of
social relationship satisfaction (partner, family members, friends, work
and social activities) were measured approximately every 3 years and
scored from 0 (very dissatisfied) to 3 (very satisfied). Scores from
each relationship type were summed to provide an overall satisfaction
score (range: ≤5–15). The outcome of interest was the accumulation of
multimorbidity in 11 chronic conditions.

Results

Over a 20-year period, 4 484 (58.3%) women reported
multimorbidities. Overall, the level of social relationship satisfaction
had a dose–response relationship with the accumulation of
multimorbidities. Compared with women reporting the highest satisfaction
(score 15), women with the lowest satisfaction (score ≤5) had the
highest odds of accumulating multimorbidity (odds ratio (OR)= 2.35, 95%
confidence interval (CI): 1.94 to 2.83) in the adjusted model. Similar
results were observed for each social relationship type. Other risk
factors, such as socioeconomic, behavioural and menopausal status,
together explained 22.72% of the association.

Conclusions

Social relationship satisfaction is associated with the accumulation
of multimorbidity, and the relationship is only partly explained by
socioeconomic, behavioural and reproductive factors. Social connections
(eg, satisfaction with social relationships) should be considered a
public health priority in chronic disease prevention and
intervention.
Spatial resolution of renal amyloid deposits through MALDI-MSI: a combined digital and molecular approach to monoclonal gammopathies
Authors: Bindi Greta , Smith Andrew , Oliveira Glenda , Eccher Albino , Vatrano Simona , Alberici Federico , Cazzaniga Giorgio , Galimberti Stefania , Capitoli Giulia , Magni Fulvio , Pagni Fabio , L'Imperio Vincenzo
Published: February 2023

Aims

Identification and characterisation of monoclonal gammopathies of renal significance (MGRS) is critical for therapeutic purposes. Amyloidosis represents one of the most common forms of MGRS, and renal biopsy remains the gold standard for their classification, although mass spectrometry has shown greater sensitivity in this area.

Methods

In the present study, a new in situ proteomic technique, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI), is investigated as an alternative to conventional laser capture microdissection MS for the characterisation of amyloids. MALDI-MSI was performed on 16 cases (3 lambda light chain amyloidosis (AL), 3 AL kappa, 3 serum amyloid A amyloidosis (SAA), 2 lambda light chain deposition disease (LCDD), 2 challenging amyloid cases and 3 controls). Analysis began with regions of interest labelled by the pathologist, and then automatic segmentation was performed.

Results

MALDI-MSI correctly identified and typed cases with known amyloid type (AL kappa, AL lambda and SAA). A ‘restricted fingerprint’ for amyloid detection composed of apolipoprotein E, serum amyloid protein and apolipoprotein A1 showed the best automatic segmentation performance (area under the curve >0.7).

Conclusions

MALDI-MSI correctly assigned minimal/challenging cases of amyloidosis to the correct type (AL lambda) and identified lambda light chains in LCDD cases, highlighting the promising role of MALDI-MSI for amyloid typing.