bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The composition and thermal properties of a cool core lacking a brightest cluster galaxy
Authors: Su Yuanyuan , Combes Francoise , Olivares Valeria , Castignani Gianluca , Torne Pablo , van Weeren Reinout
Published: October 2023

We present a multiwavelength observation of a cool core that does not appear to be associated with any galaxy, in a nearby cluster, Abell 1142. Its X-ray surface brightness peak of ≲2 keV is cooler than the ambient intracluster gas of ≳3 keV, and is offset from its brightest cluster galaxy (BCG) by 80 kpc in projection, representing the largest known cool core – BCG separation. This BCG-less cool core allows us to measure the metallicity of a cluster centre with a much-reduced contribution from the interstellar medium (ISM) of the BCG. XMM–Newton observation reveals a prominent Fe abundance peak of $1.07^{+0.16}_{-0.15}$ Z⊙ and an α/Fe abundance ratio close to the solar ratio, fully consistent with those found at the centres of typical cool core clusters. This finding hints that BCGs play a limited role in enriching the cluster centres. However, the discussion remains open, given that the α/Fe abundance ratios of the orphan cool core and the BCG ISM are not significantly different. Abell 1142 may have experienced a major merger more than 100 Myr ago, which has dissociated its cool core from the BCG. This implies that the Fe abundance peak in cool core clusters can be resilient to cluster mergers. Our recent Institut de Radio Astronomie Millimétrique 30-m observation did not detect any CO emission at its X-ray peak and we find no evidence for massive runaway cooling in the absence of recent active galactic nucleus feedback. The lack of a galaxy may contribute to an inefficient conversion of the ionized warm gas to the cold molecular gas.
Thallium hyperaccumulation status of the violets of the Allchar arsenic–thallium deposit (North Macedonia) confirmed through synchrotron µXRF imaging
Authors: Jakovljević Ksenija , Mišljenović Tomica , Bačeva Andonovska Katerina , Echevarria Guillaume , Baker Alan J M , Brueckner Dennis , van der Ent Antony
Published: October 2023

The abandoned Allchar Mine in the Republic of North Macedonia is a globally unique deposit with the highest known grades of thallium (Tl) and arsenic (As) mineralization. We aimed to determine the distribution of As and Tl in whole dehydrated shoots of the three Viola taxa using synchrotron micro-X-ray fluorescence analysis. Additionally, soil and plant organ samples were collected from all three Viola taxa at the Allchar site and analysed using inductively coupled plasma–atomic emission spectrometry. Concentrations of Tl were extremely high in all three Viola taxa (up to 58 900 mg kg−1), but concentrations of As were highly variable with V. tricolor subsp. macedonica and V. allchariensis having low As (up to 20.2 and 26.3 mg kg−1, respectively) and V. arsenica having the highest concentrations (up to 381 mg kg−1). The extremely high Tl in all three species is endogenous and not a result of contamination. Arsenic in V. tricolor subsp. macedonica and V. allcharensis is strongly affected by contamination, but not in V. arsenica where it appears to be endogenous. The pattern of As enrichment in V. arsenica is very unusual and coincides with Ca-oxalate deposits and Br hotspots. The results of this study could form the basis for more detailed investigations under controlled conditions, including plant dosing experiments.
Mis-regulation of Zn and Mn homeostasis is a key phenotype of Cu stress in Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Hong YoungJin , Mackenzie Eilidh S , Firth Samantha J , Bolton Jack R F , Stewart Louisa J , Waldron Kevin J , Djoko Karrera Y
Published: October 2023

All bacteria possess homeostastic mechanisms that control the availability of micronutrient metals within the cell. Cross-talks between different metal homeostasis pathways within the same bacterial organism have been reported widely. In addition, there have been previous suggestions that some metal uptake transporters can promote adventitious uptake of the wrong metal. This work describes the cross-talk between Cu and the Zn and Mn homeostasis pathways in Group A Streptococcus (GAS). Using a ∆copA mutant strain that lacks the primary Cu efflux pump and thus traps excess Cu in the cytoplasm, we show that growth in the presence of supplemental Cu promotes downregulation of genes that contribute to Zn or Mn uptake. This effect is not associated with changes in cellular Zn or Mn levels. Co-supplementation of the culture medium with Zn or, to a lesser extent, Mn alleviates key Cu stress phenotypes, namely bacterial growth and secretion of the fermentation end-product lactate. However, neither co-supplemental Zn nor Mn influences cellular Cu levels or Cu availability in Cu-stressed cells. In addition, we provide evidence that the Zn or Mn uptake transporters in GAS do not promote Cu uptake. Together, the results from this study strengthen and extend our previous proposal that mis-regulation of Zn and Mn homeostasis is a key phenotype of Cu stress in GAS.
Design of a sorbitol-activated nitrogen metabolism-dependent regulatory system for redirection of carbon metabolism flow in Bacillus licheniformis
Authors: He Hehe , Li Youran , Ma Xufan , Xu Sha , Zhang Liang , Ding Zhongyang , Shi Guiyang
Published: October 2023

Synthetic regulation of metabolic fluxes has emerged as a common strategy to improve the performance of microbial cell factories. The present regulatory toolboxes predominantly rely on the control and manipulation of carbon pathways. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in growth and metabolism. However, the availability of broadly applicable tools based on nitrogen pathways for metabolic regulation remains limited. In this work, we present a novel regulatory system that harnesses signals associated with nitrogen metabolism to redirect excess carbon flux in Bacillus licheniformis. By engineering the native transcription factor GlnR and incorporating a sorbitol-responsive element, we achieved a remarkable 99% inhibition of the expression of the green fluorescent protein reporter gene. Leveraging this system, we identified the optimal redirection point for the overflow carbon flux, resulting in a substantial 79.5% reduction in acetoin accumulation and a 2.6-fold increase in acetate production. This work highlight the significance of nitrogen metabolism in synthetic biology and its valuable contribution to metabolic engineering. Furthermore, our work paves the way for multidimensional metabolic regulation in future synthetic biology endeavors.
gcPathogen: a comprehensive genomic resource of human pathogens for public health
Authors: Guo Chongye , Chen Qi , Fan Guomei , Sun Yan , Nie Jingyi , Shen Zhihong , Meng Zhen , Zhou Yuanchun , Li Shiwen , Wang Shuai , Ma Juncai , Sun Qinglan , Wu Linhuan
Published: October 2023

Here, we present the manually curated Global Catalogue of Pathogens (gcPathogen), an extensive genomic resource designed to facilitate rapid and accurate pathogen analysis, epidemiological exploration and monitoring of antibiotic resistance features and virulence factors. The catalogue seamlessly integrates and analyzes genomic data and associated metadata for human pathogens isolated from infected patients, animal hosts, food and the environment. The pathogen list is supported by evidence from medical or government pathogenic lists and publications. The current version of gcPathogen boasts an impressive collection of 1 164 974 assemblies comprising 986 044 strains from 497 bacterial taxa, 4794 assemblies encompassing 4319 strains from 265 fungal taxa, 89 965 assemblies featuring 13 687 strains from 222 viral taxa, and 646 assemblies including 387 strains from 159 parasitic taxa. Through this database, researchers gain access to a comprehensive ‘one-stop shop’ that facilitates global, long-term public health surveillance while enabling in-depth analysis of genomes, sequence types, antibiotic resistance genes, virulence factors and mobile genetic elements across different countries, diseases and hosts. To access and explore the data and statistics, an interactive web interface has been developed, which can be accessed at https://nmdc.cn/gcpathogen/. This user-friendly platform allows seamless querying and exploration of the extensive information housed within the gcPathogen database.
AgeAnnoMO: a knowledgebase of multi-omics annotation for animal aging
Authors: Huang Kexin , Liu Xi , Zhang Zhaocan , Wang Tiangang , Xu Haixia , Li Qingxuan , Jia Yuhao , Huang Liyu , Kim Pora , Zhou Xiaobo
Published: October 2023

Aging entails gradual functional decline influenced by interconnected factors. Multiple hallmarks proposed as common and conserved underlying denominators of aging on the molecular, cellular and systemic levels across multiple species. Thus, understanding the function of aging hallmarks and their relationships across species can facilitate the translation of anti-aging drug development from model organisms to humans. Here, we built AgeAnnoMO (https://relab.xidian.edu.cn/AgeAnnoMO/#/), a knowledgebase of multi-omics annotation for animal aging. AgeAnnoMO encompasses an extensive collection of 136 datasets from eight modalities, encompassing 8596 samples from 50 representative species, making it a comprehensive resource for aging and longevity research. AgeAnnoMO characterizes multiple aging regulators across species via multi-omics data, comprehensively annotating aging-related genes, proteins, metabolites, mitochondrial genes, microbiotas and age-specific TCR and BCR sequences tied to aging hallmarks for these species and tissues. AgeAnnoMO not only facilitates a deeper and more generalizable understanding of aging mechanisms, but also provides potential insights of the specificity across tissues and species in aging process, which is important to develop the effective anti-aging interventions for diverse populations. We anticipate that AgeAnnoMO will provide a valuable resource for comprehending and integrating the conserved driving hallmarks in aging biology and identifying the targetable biomarkers for aging research.
Retained primary teeth: A clinical complaint not to be dismissed
Authors: Leung Christy W M , Leung Ting Fan
Published: October 2023

Retained primary teeth (RPT) may be an isolated finding, or one associated with other clinical complaints. In order to achieve timely and accurate diagnosis, it is helpful for paediatricians to perform thorough work-up for these patients. The article aims at providing an overview of the inborn medical causes that may be related to children with RPT, as well as their corresponding investigation and treatment modalities.
E3 ligases MAC3A and MAC3B ubiquitinate UBIQUITIN-SPECIFIC PROTEASE14 to regulate organ size in Arabidopsis
Authors: Guo Xiaopeng , Zhang Xin , Jiang Shan , Qiao Xin , Meng Bolun , Wang Xiaohang , Wang Yanan , Yang Kaihuan , Zhang Yilan , Li Na , Chen Tianyan , Kang Yiyang , Yao Mengyi , Zhang Xuan , Wang Xinru , Zhang Erling , Li Junhua , Yan Dawei , Hu Zhubing , Botella José Ramón , Song Chun-Peng , Li Yunhai , Guo Siyi
Published: October 2023

The molecular mechanisms controlling organ size during plant development ultimately influence crop yield. However, a deep understanding of these mechanisms is still lacking. UBIQUITIN-SPECIFIC PROTEASE14 (UBP14), encoded by DA3, is an essential factor determining organ size in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Here, we identified two suppressors of the da3-1 mutant phenotype, namely SUPPRESSOR OF da3-1 1 and 2 (SUD1 and SUD2), which encode the E3 ligases MOS4-ASSOCIATED COMPLEX 3A (MAC3A) and MAC3B, respectively. The mac3a-1 and mac3b-1 mutations partially suppressed the high ploidy level and organ size phenotypes observed in the da3-1 mutant. Biochemical analysis showed that MAC3A and MAC3B physically interacted with and ubiquitinated UBP14/DA3 to modulate its stability. We previously reported that UBP14/DA3 acts upstream of the B-type cyclin-dependent kinase CDKB1;1 and maintains its stability to inhibit endoreduplication and cell growth. In this work, MAC3A and MAC3B were found to promote the degradation of CDKB1;1 by ubiquitinating UBP14/DA3. Genetic analysis suggests that MAC3A and MAC3B act in a common pathway with UBP14/DA3 to control endoreduplication and organ size. Thus, our findings define a regulatory module, MAC3A/MAC3B-UBP14-CDKB1;1, that plays a critical role in determining organ size and endoreduplication in Arabidopsis.
Maize GOLDEN2-LIKE proteins enhance drought tolerance in rice by promoting stomatal closure
Authors: Li Xia , Li Jing , Wei Shaobo , Gao Yuan , Pei Hongcui , Geng Rudan , Lu Zefu , Wang Peng , Zhou Wenbin
Published: October 2023

Drought has become one of the most severe abiotic stresses experienced in agricultural production across the world. Plants respond to water deficit via stomatal movements in the leaves, which are mainly regulated by abscisic acid (ABA). A previous study from our lab showed that constitutive expression of maize (Zea mays L.) GOLDEN2-LIKE (GLK) transcription factors in rice (Oryza sativa L.) can improve stomatal conductance and plant photosynthetic capacity under field conditions. In the present study, we uncovered a function of ZmGLK regulation of stomatal movement in rice during drought stress. We found that elevated drought tolerance in rice plants overexpressing ZmGLK1 or GOLDEN2 (ZmG2) was conferred by rapid ABA-mediated stomatal closure. Comparative analysis of RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) data from the rice leaves and DNA affinity purification sequencing (DAP-seq) results obtained in vitro revealed that ZmGLKs played roles in regulating ABA-related and stress-responsive pathways. Four upregulated genes closely functioning in abiotic stress tolerance with strong binding peaks in the DAP-seq data were identified as putative target genes of ZmGLK1 and ZmG2 in rice. These results demonstrated that maize GLKs play an important role in regulating stomatal movements to coordinate photosynthesis and stress tolerance. This trait is a valuable target for breeding drought-tolerant crop plants without compromising photosynthetic capacity.
Returns to Scale from Labor Specialization: Evidence from Asset Management Mergers
Authors: Luo Mancy , Manconi Alberto , Schumacher David
Published: October 2023

We study human capital synergies in asset management mergers that stem from the improved ability to assign fund managers to more specialized tasks in larger firms. More specialized task assignment allows rotated managers to focus on their investment expertise and leads to incremental $54 million of value added per deal per year on average. The effects are concentrated in mergers that lead to a large increase in firm size and in funds whose management appears less specialized prior to the merger. Our results provide direct evidence on the role of firms in the assignment of tasks to fund managers. (JEL G23, J24, G34)
Image analysis to automatically classify anemia based on Famacha score in sheep using ocular conjunctiva images
Authors: Freitas Luara A , Ferreira Rafael E P , Savegnago Rodrigo P , Dórea João R R , Stafuzza Nedenia B , Rosa Guilherme J M , Paz Claudia C P
Published: October 2023

Haemonchus contortus is the most pathogenic blood-feeding parasitic in sheep, causing anemia and consequently changes in the color of the ocular conjunctiva, from the deep red of healthy sheep to shades of pink to practically white of non-healthy sheep. In this context, the Famacha method has been created for detecting sheep unable to cope with the infection by H. contortus, through visual assessment of ocular conjunctiva coloration. Thus, the objectives of this study were (1) to extract ocular conjunctiva image features to automatically classify Famacha score and compare two classification models (multinomial logistic regression—MLR and random forest—RF) and (2) to evaluate the applicability of the best classification model on three sheep farms. The dataset consisted of 1,156 ocular conjunctiva images from 422 animals. RF model was used to segment the images, i.e., to select the pixels that belong to the ocular conjunctiva. After segmentation, the quantiles (1%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, and 99%) of color intensity in each image channel (red, blue, and green) were determined and used as explanatory variables in the classification models, and the Famacha scores 1 (non-anemic) to 5 (severely anemic) were the target classes to be predicted (scores 1 to 5, with 162, 255, 443, 266, and 30 images, respectively). For objective 1, the performance metrics (precision and sensitivity) were obtained using MLR and RF models considering data from all farms randomly split. For objective 2, a leave-one-farm-out cross-validation technique was used to assess prediction quality across three farms (farms A, B, and C, with 726, 205, and 225 images, respectively). The RF provided the best performances in predicting anemic animals, as indicated by the high values of sensitivity for Famacha score 3 (80.9%), 4 (46.2%), and 5 (60%) compared to the MLR model. The precision of the RF was 72.7% for Famacha score 1 and 62.5% for Famacha score 2. These results indicate that is possible to successfully predict Famacha score, especially for scores 2 to 4, in sheep via image analysis and RF model using ocular conjunctiva images collected in farm conditions. As expected, model validation excluding entire farms in cross-validation presented a lower prediction quality. Nonetheless, this setup is closer to reality because the developed models are supposed to be used across farms, including new ones, and with different environments and management conditions.
Permissive Hypotension Has No Deleterious Impact on Fluid Balance or Kidney Function
Authors: Lavillegrand Jean-Rémi , Blum Laurene , Morin Alexandra , Urbina Tomas , Gabarre Paul , Bonny Vincent , Baudel Jean-Luc , Guidet Bertrand , Maury Eric , Ait-Oufella Hafid
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVES:

Mean arterial hypotension between 55 and 65 mm Hg could be tolerated safely in the absence of tissue hypoperfusion, but the consequences on fluid balance and kidney function remain unknown.

DESIGN:

During a 1-year period, we retrospectively collected data of consecutive septic patients admitted for sepsis with a mean arterial pressure (MAP) less than 65 mm Hg despite fluid resuscitation.

SETTING:

Medical 18-bed ICU in a tertiary teaching hospital.

PATIENTS:

Septic patients with a MAP less than 65 mm Hg despite initial resuscitation.

INTERVENTIONS:

In our ICU, MAP between 55 and 65 mm Hg was tolerated in the absence of peripheral hypoperfusion (permissive hypotension) or corrected using norepinephrine (septic shock group) when peripheral tissue hypoperfusion was present.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Ninety-four consecutive septic patients were included, 15 in the permissive hypotension group and 79 in the septic shock group. Median age was 66 years (57–77 yr) and 42% were women. The main sources of infection were respiratory (45%) and abdominal (18%). Severity was more important in septic shock group with higher Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score (7 [5–10] vs. 4 [1–6]; p < 0.0001), more frequent organ support therapy and ultimately higher mortality (38 vs. 0%; p < 0.01). The total volume of crystalloids infused before ICU admission was not different between groups (1930 ± 250 vs. 1850 ± 150 mL; p = 0.40). Within the 6 first hours of ICU stay, patients in the permissive hypotension group received less fluids (530 ± 170 vs. 1100 ± 110 mL; p = 0.03) and had higher urinary output (1.4 mL [0.88–2.34 mL] vs. 0.47 mL/kg/hr [0.08–1.25 mL/kg/hr]; p < 0.001). In addition, kidney injury evaluated using KDIGO score was lower in the permissive hypotension group at 48 hours (0 hr [0–1 hr] vs. 1 hr [0–2 hr]; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

In septic patients without clinical peripheral hypoperfusion, mean arterial hypotension between 55 and 65 mm Hg could be tolerated safely without vasopressor infusion and was not associated with excessive fluid administration or kidney damage.
The STING-IRF3 Signaling Pathway, Mediated by Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress, Contributes to Impaired Myocardial Autophagic Flux After Ischemia/Reperfusion
Authors: Li Yuanbin , Lin Hui , Tang Hao , Zhu Ke , Zhou Zhangfu , Zeng Zhaohui , Pan Bin , Chen Zhuang
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to determine whether endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is involved in impaired autophagy after myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (M-I/R) and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. The expression levels of stimulator of interferon gene (STING) and interferon regulatory transcription factor 3 (IRF3) phosphorylation increased in M-I/R heart tissues and hypoxia-treated/reoxygenation-treated H9c2 cells. The ER stress inhibitor 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA) significantly suppressed the stimulation of STING-IRF3 transcription and alleviated cardiac dysfunction caused by M-I/R injury. In addition, 4-PBA reversed ischemia-induced/reperfusion-induced autophagic flux dysfunction, as demonstrated by a decrease in p62 and LC3 levels. Similarly, the protective effect of STING deficiency on myocardial cell damage was achieved by the recovery of autophagic flux. Conversely, the protective effect of 4-PBA against hypoxia/reoxygenation injury in cardiomyocytes was offset by STING overexpression, wherein the activated STING-IRF3 pathway promoted the expression of Rubicon (a negatively-regulated autophagic molecule) by binding to the Rubicon promoter. Rubicon ablation effectively counteracts the adverse effects of STING overexpression in cardiomyocytes. The data showed that STING-IRF3 signaling of ER stress receptors is particularly important in the progression of physiological M-I/R caused by the inhibition of autophagic flow in vivo and in vitro.
CTRP3 inhibits myocardial fibrosis through the P2X7R-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in SHR rats
Authors: Liu Na , Gong Zhaowei , Li Yang , Xu Yang , Guo Yutong , Chen Wenjia , Sun Xue , Yin Xinhua , Liu Wenxiu
Published: October 2023

Background and purpose:

Reducing hypertensive myocardial fibrosis is the fundamental approach to preventing hypertensive ventricular remodelling. C1q/TNF-related protein-3 (CTRP3) is closely associated with hypertension. However, the role and mechanism of CTRP3 in hypertensive myocardial fibrosis are unclear. In this study, we aimed to explore the effect of CTRP3 on hypertensive myocardial fibrosis and the potential mechanism.

Methods and results:

WKY and SHR rats were employed, blood pressure, body weight, heart weight, H/BW were measured, and fibrotic-related proteins, CTRP3 and Collagen I were tested in myocardium at 12 and 20 weeks by immunohistochemical staining and Western blotting, respectively. The results showed that compared with the WKY, SBP, DBP, mean arterial pressure and heart rate (HR) were all significantly increased in SHR at 12 and 20 weeks, while heart weight and H/BW were only increased at 20 weeks. Meanwhile, CTRP3 decreased, while Collagen I increased significantly in the SHR rat myocardium at 20 weeks, which compared to the WKY. Moreover, the expression of α-SMA increased from 12 weeks, Collagen I/III and MMP2/9 increased and TIMP-2 decreased until 20 weeks. In order to explore the function and mechanism of CTRP3 in hypertensive fibrosis, Angiotensin II (Ang II) was used to induce hypertension in primary neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts in vitro. CTRP3 significantly inhibited the Ang II induced activation of fibrotic proteins, purinergic 2X7 receptor (P2X7R)-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. The P2X7R agonist BzATP significantly exacerbated Ang II-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation, which was decreased by the P2X7R antagonists A43079, CTRP3 and MCC950.

Conclusion:

CTRP3 expression was decreased in the myocardium of SHR rats, and exogenous CTRP3 inhibited Ang II-induced fibrosis in cardiac fibroblasts by regulating the P2X7R-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, suggesting that CTRP3 is a potential drug for alleviating myocardial fibrosis in hypertensive conditions.
Contribution Factors of Effective Lens Position, Tilt, and Decentration during Flanged Scleral Fixation of Intraocular Lens: A Model Eye Study
Authors: Park Chang-Hyun , Moon Kun , Kim Jessica S , Shim Kyu Young , Jun Jong Hwa
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

We aimed to elucidate the factors related to effective lens position (ELP), tilt, and decentration of scleral fixed intraocular lenses (IOLs) with a flanged haptic technique in an artificial eye model using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT).

Methods:

Two bent 27-gauge needles were passed through a 1.0- or 2.0-mm scleral tunnel, 2.0 mm posterior to the limbus and 180° apart. Both haptics of a 3-piece IOL were docked with guide needles and externalized. Factors related to the IOL position were analyzed using AS-OCT and a stereomicroscope.

Results:

The 1.0-mm scleral tunnel induced a significantly longer ELP than the 2.0-mm tunnel and suture fixation (p<0.05 and p<0.01, respectively). Discrepancy in scleral tunnel length induced higher decentration of the optic to the opposite side of the haptic-embedded shorter tunnel and tilt perpendicular to the fixed axis than that in the scleral tunnel of the same length (p<0.001 and p<0.05, respectively). If the scleral fixation points of both haptics are not exactly 180° apart, the IOL may become decentered and tilted (p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively).

Conclusion:

In the flanged haptic technique, the length, balance, and position of both scleral tunnels determine IOL ELP, tilt, and decentration.
Utility of Central 10 Degrees Visual Field Test With Size V Stimulus in End-Stage Glaucoma
Authors: Hwang Young Hoon
Published: October 2023

Précis:

In end-stage glaucoma, the central 10-degree visual field test with a size V stimulus provided useful information, including the number of points with detectable retinal sensitivity threshold values and retinal sensitivity threshold values.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical utility of the central 10-degree visual field test with a size V stimulus in end-stage glaucoma.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 73 eyes with end-stage glaucoma (visual field limited to a radius of <10 degrees from fixation) were included. Central 10 degrees visual field tests were performed using both size III and V stimuli. Reliability indices, test duration, number of points with detectable retinal sensitivity threshold values, and retinal sensitivity threshold values at 4 central points, 4 quadrants, and 3 clusters (papillomacular area, superior half, and inferior half) were compared between the test results using size III and V stimuli.

Results:

When the size V stimulus was used, the mean test duration increased from 7.8 to 13.3 minutes (P < 0.001), the mean number of test points with detectable retinal sensitivity threshold values in total area increased from 19.0 to 37.3 (P < 0.001), and the mean retinal sensitivity threshold values in total area increased from 3.9 to 9.3 dB (P < 0.001) compared with the test results with the size III stimulus. Significant increase in the visual field parameters was found in all quadrants and clusters (P < 0.001), and a greater increase was associated with better visual acuity and greater mean deviation of the visual field (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

The central 10-degree visual field test with a size V stimulus provided more information than the test with a size III stimulus in end-stage glaucoma.
Successful Eradication of a Highly Resistant Elizabethkingia anophelis Species in a Premature Neonate With Bacteremia and Meningitis
Authors: Hartley Christopher , Morrisette Taylor , Malloy Katherine , Steed Lisa L. , Dixon Terry , Garner Sandra S.
Published: October 2023

Elizabethkingia anophelis is a Gram-negative bacillus that can exhibit highly resistant phenotypes against most antibiotics with evidence of efficacy and safety in the neonatal population. Given the limited antimicrobial options, clinicians may be forced into challenging treatment scenarios when faced with central nervous system infections in premature neonates caused by E. anophelis. We report a case of successful treatment of hospital-acquired meningitis and bacteremia caused by E. anophelis at 11 days of life in a male infant born at 29 weeks, 1 day gestation and birth weight of 1.41 kg. Therapy consisted of vancomycin, dose adjusted to maintain goal troughs of 15–20 mg/L, and rifampin 10 mg/kg/dose every 12 hours, with ciprofloxacin 15 mg/kg/dose every 12 hours and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole 5 mg/kg/dose every 12 hours added due to antimicrobial susceptibilities and unsatisfactory response, for a total of 21 days. Following initiation of this multidrug regimen, repeat cultures were negative, laboratory parameters improved [with exception of elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) white blood cell count], the patient remained otherwise stable, and there were no adverse effects noted from therapy. Complications after treatment included the requirement of bilateral hearing aids and the development of hydrocephalus necessitating ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement. To our knowledge, we report the first case of meningitis in a premature neonate initially identified as E. anophelis in the United States treated with this regimen which led to successful microbiologic eradication with no antimicrobial safety concerns.
Habituation to pain: self-report, electroencephalography, and functional magnetic resonance imaging in healthy individuals. A scoping review and future recommendations
Authors: van der Miesen Maite M. , Joosten Elbert A. , Kaas Amanda L. , Linden David E.J. , Peters Judith C. , Vossen Catherine J.
Published: October 2023

Habituation to pain is a fundamental learning process and important adaption. Yet, a comprehensive review of the current state of the field is lacking. Through a systematic search, 63 studies were included. Results address habituation to pain in healthy individuals based on self-report, electroencephalography, or functional magnetic resonance imaging. Our findings indicate a large variety in methods, experimental settings, and contexts, making habituation a ubiquitous phenomenon. Habituation to pain based on self-report studies shows a large influence of expectations, as well as the presence of individual differences. Furthermore, widespread neural effects, with sometimes opposing effects in self-report measures, are noted. Electroencephalography studies showed habituation of the N2-P2 amplitude, whereas functional magnetic resonance imaging studies showed decreasing activity during painful repeated stimulation in several identified brain areas (cingulate cortex and somatosensory cortices). Important considerations for the use of terminology, methodology, statistics, and individual differences are discussed. This review will aid our understanding of habituation to pain in healthy individuals and may lead the way to improving methods and designs for personalized treatment approaches in chronic pain patients.
Hospice Family Caregivers' Uncertainty, Burden, and Unmet Needs in Prospective Audio Diaries
Authors: Thomas Hebdon Megan C. , Cloyes Kristin G. , Vega Marilisa , Rosenkranz Susan J. , Reblin Maija , Tay Djin , Mooney Kathi , Ellington Lee
Published: October 2023

Hospice cancer caregivers' (HCCs') burden and unmet needs are well documented in the literature through retrospective, standardized self-report surveys. Hospice cancer caregiver daily experiences of burden and unmet needs are rarely captured within a real-time context. The purpose of this secondary data analysis was to characterize HCCs' day-to-day burden and unmet needs with prospective HCC (N = 50) audio diary data between hospice enrollment and patient death. Uncertainty theory provided a framework for analysis. Diaries were transcribed, analyzed deductively and inductively, and organized thematically. Uncertainty in day-to-day experiences was an important driver of HCC burden and unmet needs. Unmet needs included unclear/unmet expectations regarding hospice care team support; not understanding the extent of HCC role and involvement; and communication challenges with hospice team members. Sources of HCCs' burden were dissonance between how they “should” feel and how they actually felt; feeling alone/having no outlet to express feelings; concerns about their own health and subsequent patient impact; and feeling helpless/occupying a liminal space. Uncertainty surrounding HCCs' experiences encompassed interactions with hospice care teams and the nature of end-of-life caregiving with symptom management, the dying process, and the HCC role. Hospice care teams can respond to uncertainty through assessment, understanding, and recognition of the daily context of HCCs.
Community-Academic Partnership
Authors: Mixer Sandra J. , Smith Jennifer L. , Brown Mary Lynn , Lindley Lisa C.
Published: October 2023

Despite research findings that rural Appalachians prefer to die at home, few people access palliative and hospice care services, and many report limited knowledge about palliative/end-of-life care resources. A community-academic partnership was formed to address this need. Train-the-trainer workshop and materials were co-developed. This study tested the feasibility and cultural acceptability of the training intervention to increase community members' knowledge about palliative/end-of-life care resources for East Tennessee Appalachian people. Community-based participatory research design and culture care theory guided the project, intervention, and research. After engaging in end-of-life training, participants completed a retrospective pretest-posttest survey. Paired samplesttests were used to compare knowledge before and after training. Means and standard deviations were used to report training material usefulness and cultural acceptability. Short-answer qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. Sixty-six adults completed the survey. Ratings for training materials and cultural/theological acceptability were high. Participant knowledge rankings showed significant improvement after training at theP<.001 level. Qualitative feedback was positive. The training intervention was feasible, culturally acceptable, and effective for increasing East Tennessee Appalachian persons' palliative/end-of-life care knowledge. Community member expertise/collaboration integrated into every stage of the project is the bedrock of cultural acceptability and feasibility.
Management of Early Postoperative Bleeding After OAGB: A Single-center Experience
Authors: Helmy Ramy F. , Elbanna Mohey R. , El-Zemeity Ahmed O. , Abozeid Tarek A. O. , Fadl Ehab M.
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) has gained popularity among bariatric surgeons due to the shorter operative time, fewer sites for anastomotic leaks and internal herniation, shorter learning curve, ease of reversibility and revision with equivalent results to Roux en Y gastric bypass in terms of weight loss and co-morbidity resolution. We present our experience in managing early postoperative bleeding after OAGB.

Patients and Methods:

Patients who underwent OAGB in Bariatric Surgery Unit, Ain Shams University Hospitals between January 2016 and January 2023 were followed up for 30 days for early postoperative complications. Patients were 210 females (70%) and 90 males, with a mean age of 41.3±7.1 years, and mean preoperative body mass index of 45.2±6.1 kg/m². The incidence of early postoperative bleeding, the sites of the bleeding and management strategy were reported.

Results:

Fourteen of 300 patients (4.67%) developed early postoperative bleeding after OAGB. Intraluminal bleeding occurred in 4 patients, 3 of which were controlled by endoscopy and one by laparoscopic suturing. Intra-abdominal bleeding occurred in 10 patients, 7 of which were successfully managed conservatively, and 3 required laparoscopic management. Two cases had both intra-abdominal bleeding and intraluminal bleeding in the distal stomach, confirmed by intraoperative endoscopy, and controlled by laparoscopic suturing.

Conclusion:

Early postoperative bleeding after OAGB is a rare complication (4.67%). Conservative treatment is more successful in controlling intra-abdominal bleeding. In case of failed conservative treatment, laparoscopy is the method of choice. Most cases of intra-luminal bleeding need early endoscopic intervention.
Transabdominal Management of Epiphrenic Diverticula in the Setting of Achalasia: A Single-center Review
Authors: Tankel James , Meng Andrew , Gold Morgan , Mueller Carmen , Spicer Jonathan , Cools-Lartigue Jonathan , Ferri Lorenzo , Najmeh Sara
Published: October 2023

Background:

The perioperative and functional outcomes of patients with epiphrenic diverticula (ED) on a background of achalasia managed via a minimally invasive transabdominal approach are under-reported. We describe our center’s experience over 10 years of treating such patients.

Methods:

A single-center, retrospective chart of a prospectively maintained hospital database was performed. All patients with a diagnosis of ED and manometrically proven achalasia were identified. Demographic, clinical, and surgical data were extracted from the institution’s medical records. Patients were stratified by whether they underwent myotomy only or myotomy plus diverticulectomy and compared in a univariate manner.

Results:

There were 18 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The median age of the cohort was 67.1 years (range 53.1 to 77.8), the maximal size of the diverticula was 3.5 cm (range 2.0 to 7.0), and the distance of the proximal lip of the diverticulum to the incisors was 33.5 cm (range 28.0 to 38.0). In terms of surgical intervention, 14 patients (77.8%) underwent myotomy plus diverticulectomy, and 4 (22.2%) underwent myotomy alone. The duration of surgery was significantly longer in the former (177.5 vs. 75.0 min, P=0.031). In total, 9/18 (50.0%) of patients were discharged on the day of surgery. There was a trend to more major postoperative complications following diverticulectomy plus myotomy, with 2/13 (15.4%) patients suffering staple line leaks. Excellent long-term functional outcomes were achieved, with 81.3% of patients having sustained resolution of their symptoms.

Conclusions:

Laparoscopic transabdominal approach for the treatment of ED offers an acceptable risk profile and favorable functional outcomes in patients with underlying achalasia.
Effectiveness of exercise interventions on urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse in pregnant and postpartum women: umbrella review and clinical guideline development
Authors: Ryhtä Iina , Axelin Anna , Parisod Heidi , Holopainen Arja , Hamari Lotta
Published: October 2023

Introduction and aims:

Dysfunction related to pelvic floor muscles (PFM) is common among pregnant and postpartum women and can cause symptoms such as urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse (POP). As part of developing a nationwide clinical practice guideline for nursing in Finland, the aim of this umbrella review is to summarize the existing evidence about the effectiveness of exercise interventions on urinary incontinence and POP in pregnant and postpartum women. To promote knowledge translation, recommendations for health care professionals are presented.

Methods:

We conducted an umbrella review to summarize the existing evidence. The JBI methodology for umbrella reviews was used to guide the review. The level of evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, and recommendations based on the evidence were formulated by a clinical guideline working group.

Results:

Altogether, 9 systematic reviews, reporting findings from 89 original studies, were included. The methodological quality of the reviews was evaluated using JBI's checklist. The highest level of evidence was found for preventing the symptoms of postpartum urinary incontinence through exercise and pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) during pregnancy. Moderate-level evidence showed that exercise and PFMT are likely to reduce the symptoms and severity of urinary incontinence, but the level of evidence was low on PFMT reducing the symptoms of POP.

Conclusion:

We recommend encouraging and guiding pregnant and postpartum women to exercise and train PFM. We also recommend identifying pregnant and postpartum women with symptoms of PFM dysfunction and directing them to a physiotherapist or other health care professional specializing in pelvic floor function.
Anisotropic magnetoresistance: materials, models and applications
Authors: Ritzinger Philipp , Výborný Karel
Published: October 2023

Resistance of certain (conductive and otherwise isotropic) ferromagnets turns out to exhibit anisotropy with respect to the direction of magnetization:

R

∥

for magnetization parallel to the electric current direction is different from
R
⊥
for magnetization perpendicular to the electric current direction. In this review, this century-old phenomenon is reviewed both from the perspective of materials and physical mechanisms involved. More recently, this effect has also been identified and studied in antiferromagnets. To date, sensors based on the anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) effect are widely used in different fields, such as the automotive industry, aerospace or in biomedical imaging.
Synthesis of block copolymer with
cis
-1,4-polybutadiene and isotactic-rich polystyrene using α-diimine nickel catalysts
Authors: Zheng Nan , Liu Jie , Li Zonglin , Lu Jiufu , Ni Yan , Min Xin
Published: October 2023

A series of styrene-butadiene di-block copolymers with high
cis
-1,4 unit content (greater than 92%) polybutadiene (PB) and isotactic-rich polystyrene (PS) (
mmmm
> 65%) was synthesized using α-diimine nickel catalysts (Ni-diimine). Four different Ni-diimine catalysts were synthesized via a complexing reaction between nickel (II) naphthenate and laboratory-made α-diimine ligands L1, L2, L3 and L4, which have different steric volume structures. The results indicate that the Ni-diimine catalyst prepared using the L4 ligand with a higher steric volume can effectively initiate the block polymerization of butadiene and styrene, and the resulting polymer has distinguished
cis
-1,4 structure unit PB and high isotactic-selective PS block. Differential scanning calorimetry and electrochemical performance tests show that these block copolymers with
cis
-1,4-regulated and isotactic-selective polymerization have advantages in terms of high-temperature and low-temperature resistance as well as corrosion resistance. Therefore, these copolymers are expected to be widely used in some harsh industrial environments.
Mutant mice lacking alternatively spliced p53 isoforms unveilAckr4as a male-specific prognostic factor in Myc-driven B-cell lymphomas
Authors: Fajac Anne , Simeonova Iva , Leemput Julia , Gabriel Marc , Morin Aurélie , Lejour Vincent , Hamon Annaïg , Rakotopare Jeanne , Vaysse-Zinkhöfer Wilhelm , Eldawra Eliana , Pinskaya Marina , Morillon Antonin , Bourdon Jean-Christophe , Bardot Boris , Toledo Franck
Published: October 2023

TheTrp53gene encodes several isoforms of elusive biological significance. Here we show that mice lacking theTrp53Alternatively Spliced (AS) exon, thereby expressing the canonical p53 protein but not isoforms with the AS C-terminus, have unexpectedly lost a male-specific protection against Myc-induced B-cell lymphomas. Lymphomagenesis was delayed in p53+/+Eμ-Myc males compared to p53ΔAS/ΔASEμ-Myc males, but also compared to p53+/+Eμ-Myc and p53ΔAS/ΔASEμ-Myc females. Pre-tumoral splenic cells from p53+/+Eμ-Myc males exhibited a higher expression ofAckr4,encoding an atypical chemokine receptor with tumor suppressive effects. We identifiedAckr4as a p53 target gene whose p53-mediated transactivation is inhibited by estrogens, and as a male-specific factor of good prognosis relevant for murine Eμ-Myc-induced and human Burkitt lymphomas. Furthermore, the knockout ofACKR4increased the chemokine-guided migration of Burkitt lymphoma cells. These data demonstrate the functional relevance of alternatively spliced p53 isoforms and reveal sex disparities in Myc-driven lymphomagenesis.
SODA: Software to Support the Curation and Sharing of FAIR Autonomic Nervous System Data
Authors: Marroquin Christopher , Clark Jacob , Portillo Dorian , Soundarajan Sanjay , Patel Bhavesh
Published: October 2023

Since 2014, the National Institutes of Health (NIH)’s Stimulating Peripheral Activity to Relieve Conditions (SPARC) Program has been supporting research and development of therapeutic devices that modulate electrical activity in the autonomic nervous system (ANS) to improve organ function, also known as bioelectronic medicine. To optimize the reusability of data resulting from ANS-related research, the SPARC Program also supported the development of guidelines for curating and sharing data in line with the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) Principles. These guidelines are exhaustive to maximize FAIRness of data but as a result, they are difficult and time-consuming for researchers to implement. To address these challenges, we developed SODA (Software to Organize Data Automatically), an open source and free cross-platform desktop software that guides researchers step-by-step in preparing and sharing their ANS-related data according to the SPARC guidelines. SODA combines intuitive user interfaces with automation to streamline the process and reduce researchers’ time, effort, and error in making their data FAIR. We provide in this paper an overview of SODA and results of testing its performance. We also provide an overview of the impact of SODA which is, to our knowledge, the first researcher-oriented tool for making data FAIR.
Systems-level analyses dissociate genetic regulators of reactive oxygen species and energy production
Authors: Bennett Neal K. , Lee Megan , Orr Adam L. , Nakamura Ken
Published: October 2023

Respiratory chain dysfunction can decrease ATP and increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Despite the importance of these metabolic parameters to a wide range of cellular functions and disease, we lack an integrated understanding of how they are differentially regulated. To address this question, we adapted a CRISPRi- and FACS-based platform to compare the effects of respiratory gene knockdown on ROS to their effects on ATP. Focusing on genes whose knockdown is known to decrease mitochondria-derived ATP, we showed that knockdown of genes in specific respiratory chain complexes (I, III and CoQ10 biosynthesis) increased ROS, whereas knockdown of other low ATP hits either had no impact (mitochondrial ribosomal proteins) or actually decreased ROS (complex IV). Moreover, although shifting metabolic conditions profoundly altered mitochondria-derived ATP levels, it had little impact on mitochondrial or cytosolic ROS. In addition, knockdown of a subset of complex I subunits—including NDUFA8, NDUFB4, and NDUFS8—decreased complex I activity, mitochondria-derived ATP and supercomplex level, but knockdown of these genes had differential effects on ROS. Conversely, we found an essential role for ether lipids in the dynamic regulation of mitochondrial ROS levels independent of ATP. Thus, our results identify specific metabolic regulators of cellular ATP and ROS balance that may help dissect the roles of these processes in disease and identify therapeutic strategies to independently target energy failure and oxidative stress.

Significance

Mitochondrial respiration generates both energy (ATP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Insufficient energy and increased ROS from respiratory chain dysfunction may be central to the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases and aging. We established a screening platform using CRISPR and fluorescent-cell sorting to compare the impact of decreasing respiratory chain proteins on ROS and ATP levels. The results provide the first systems-level analysis of how ROS and ATP are differentially regulated, and identify genes and respiratory chain complexes that can manipulate each independently. These findings advance our understanding of the relative contributions of ATP and ROS to disease pathophysiology, and guide the development of therapies to preserve energy while minimizing ROS.