bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid detection of pyrethroid resistance‐associated mutation L1014F in the field based on loop‐mediated isothermal amplification technique
Authors: Wang Ruijie , Xu Xiao , Ullah Farman , Ding Qian , Wang Xiu , Song Dunlun
Published: June 2023

Myzus persicae (Sulzer) is a globally distributed crop pest with a wide host range. The L1014F mutation in the voltage‐gated sodium channel has been implicated in mediating resistance to pyrethroid insecticides in M. persicae. Control failures in crop production are frequently attributed to inaccurate or delayed detection of M. persicae resistance. Thus, simple and effective tools for detecting resistant M. persicae are required to develop rapid and flexible pest control strategies. The resistance assay and L1014F mutation frequency assay results showed that the L1014F mutation frequency could infer M. persicae's resistance level to pyrethroid insecticides. Therefore, in our study, we established a Loop‐Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP)‐based method to detect the L1014F mutation in the voltage‐gated sodium channel of M. persicae. This method uses single aphid crude extract DNA as a template, and the full reaction can be completed in 1 h in a relaxed temperature range. The results could also be obtained by colour change without any molecular detection. We have also optimized the reaction system and procedures to improve the accuracy of the assay to over 95%. Based on this, we can detect the mutation frequency of voltage‐gated sodium channel L014F in M. persicae field populations in a non‐laboratory setting, such as in the field, in a stable, accurate, and rapid manner. This method facilitates quick determination of the resistance of M. persicae populations, followed by guide field control.
Holocaust survivors: Health and longevity 70 years later
Authors: Stessman Jochanan , Paris Barbara , Jacobs Jeremy M.
Published: June 2023

Background

Holocaust survivors (HS) alive today form a unique and disappearing population, whose exposure to systematic genocide occurred over 70 years ago. Negative health outcomes were widely documented prior to age 70. We examine the hypothesis that the experience of remote trauma continues to negatively affect health, functional status, and survival between the ages of 85–95.

Methods

The Jerusalem Longitudinal Study (1990–2022) followed a representative sample of Jerusalem residents born 1920–1921, at ages 85, 90 and 95. Home assessment included medical, social, functional, and cognitive status, and mortality data. Subjects were classified: (1) HS‐Camp (HS‐C): survived slave‐labor, concentration, or death camps; (2) HS‐Exposed (HS‐E): survived Nazi occupation of Europe; (3) Controls: European descent, outside Europe during WWII. We determined Hazards Ratios (HR), adjusting for gender, loneliness, financial difficulty, physical activity, ADL dependence, chronic ischemic heart disease, cancer, cognitive deficits, chronic joint pain, self‐rated health.

Results

At ages 85 (n = 496), 90 (n = 524), and 95 (n = 383) the frequency of HS‐C versus HS‐E versus Controls was 28%/22%/50%, 19%/19%/62%, and 20%/22%/58%, respectively. No consistent significant morbidity differences were observed. Mortality between ages 85–90 and 90–95 years was 34.9% versus 38% versus 32.0%, and 43.4% versus 47.3% versus 43.7%, respectively, with no significant differences in survival rates (log rank p = 0.63, p = 0.81). Five‐year mortality adjusted HRs were insignificant for HS‐C and HS‐E between ages 85–90 (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.54–1.39; HR 1.14, 95% CI 0.73–1.78) and ages 90–95 (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.39–1.32; HR 1.38, 95% CI 0.85–2.23).

Conclusions

Seventy years following their trauma and suffering during the Holocaust, the significant impairments of health, function, morbidity, and mortality which have accompanied survivors throughout their entire adult life, were no longer observed. Indeed, it is likely that survivors living >85 years old represent a uniquely resilient population of people, whose adaptation to adversity has accompanied them throughout their lives.
Determinants of completion and early dropout in an adult weight management service: a prospective observational study
Authors: Everitt Jordan D. , Battista‐Dowds Enzo M. , Heggs Daniel , Hewlett Paul , Squire Amanda L. M.
Published: June 2023

Background

High attrition rates in weight management interventions (WMIs) undermine their effectiveness but are poorly understood. This study aimed to identify determinants of completion and early dropout in National Health Service (NHS) WMIs.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, 329 patients recruited at initial consultation appointments satisfied the eligibility criteria: age ≥18 years and body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the odds ratios (OR, given with 95% confidence interval) of completion and early dropout.

Results

Intervention completion rate was 39.8% (131 of 329). Variables that increased the likelihood of completion included engagement in support sessions, OR10.6 (4.7–23.6, p < 0.001); male sex, OR2.5 (1.4–4.5, p = 0.002); osteoarthritis, OR1.9 (1.1–3.3, p = 0.014); and one or more missed intervention appointments marked as ‘could not attend’ (notified nonattendance), OR1.8 (1.1–2.9, p = 0.032). Odds of early dropout were higher for participants with anxiety and depression OR2.0 (1.0–4.0, p = 0.039). Dietetic 1:1 participants were less likely to drop out early compared with group programme participants, OR0.3 (0.2–0.7, p = 0.002), but were less likely to complete the full intervention, OR0.5 (0.3–0.9, p = 0.02). Age, BMI, social deprivation and travel distance were among the variables not associated with completion or early dropout.

Conclusions

This study provides further evidence of the importance of support for participants of WMIs and the need for services to consider how support networks can be incorporated. Patients with poorer mental health may be more likely to drop out early and consequently benefit less from WMIs. Future research should qualitatively explore why these factors contribute to attrition to improve WMI effectiveness.
Mechanism of action and side effects of colchicine based on biomechanical properties of cells
Authors: Liu Lanjiao , Chen Mingxin , Gao Yifan , Tian Liguo , Zhang Wenxiao , Wang Zuobin
Published: June 2023

Many diseases are related to changes in the biomechanical properties of cells; their study can provide a theoretical basis for drug screening and can explain the internal working of living cells. In this study, the biomechanical properties of nephrocytes (VERO cells), hepatocytes (HL‐7702 cells), and hepatoma cells (SMCC‐7721 cells) in culture were detected by atomic force microscopy (AFM) to analyse the side effects of colchicine at different concentrations (0.1 μg/mL (A) and 0.2 μg/mL (B)) at the nanoscale for 2, 4 and 6 h. Compared with the corresponding control cells, the damage to the treated cells increased in a dose‐dependent manner. Among normal cells, the injury of nephrocytes (VERO cells) was markedly worse than that of hepatocytes (HL‐7702 cells) in both colchicine solutions A and B. Based on the analyses of biomechanical properties, the colchicine solution reduced the rate of division and inhibited metastasis of SMCC‐7721 cells. By comparing these two concentrations, we found that the anticancer effect of colchicine solution A was greater than that of solution B. Studying the mechanical properties of biological cells can help understand the mechanism of drug action at the molecular level and provide a theoretical basis for preventing the emergence and diagnosis of diseases at the nanoscale.
Trauma‐Informed Pedagogy: Instructional Strategies to Support Student Success
Authors: Arbour Megan , Walker Kelly , Houston Jane
Published: June 2023

Over the past several years, the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has contributed to challenging working and life conditions. As a result, the midwifery and health care workforce has faced significant shortages due to burnout. Increased societal awareness of historical trauma and systemic racism embedded within US culture has also led to increased anxiety and signs of trauma among midwifery and health profession students. Now more than ever, innovative teaching strategies are needed to support students, reduce the risks of burnout, and increase diversity in the workforce. One strategy is to adopt a trauma‐informed pedagogy within midwifery education. Trauma‐informed pedagogy is founded on core assumptions of trauma‐informed care and thus supports student success by recognizing that the student cannot be separated from their own life experiences. Faculty and preceptors can develop empathetic, flexible supports that communicate care and concern regarding students’ personal and social situations, and emotions. Empathetic behavior from teachers also increases student learning motivation, making it easier for students to actively engage in learning thereby reducing their distress. The purpose of this State of the Science review, therefore, was to describe the literature surrounding trauma‐informed pedagogy and to offer concrete educational strategies that faculty members and educational programs can employ to increase the success of a diverse student body. This can be accomplished through flexibility in curriculum design and outcome measurement to ensure attainment of end of program learning outcomes. Institutional and administrative support are essential to develop a faculty who realize the benefit and value of trauma‐informed pedagogy underpinning student success.
Exploring healthcare professionals' perspective of the process of obtaining consent for adult patient's having planned surgery: A scoping review
Authors: Gardiner Therese M. , Gillespie Brigid M. , Latimer Sharon , Hewitt Jayne
Published: June 2023

Aim

The aim of this scoping review was to provide an overview of the literature about the process of obtaining consent from adult patients undergoing planned surgery from the healthcare professionals' perspective and analyse knowledge gaps.

Background

The process of obtaining consent for planned elective surgery manifests an individual's fundamental right to decide what happens to their body. The process is often suboptimal and problematic, placing a significant resource burden on health systems globally. Deficiencies in the documentation on consent forms have also been shown to increase the risk of operating room error.

Design

Scoping review.

Methods

Arksey and O′Malley's (International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 8, 2005 and 19) five‐step scoping review methodology was used.

Results

Fifty‐three articles were included; 39 primary and 14 secondary research publications. Three key findings were identified; there is currently low‐level evidence about surgical consent processes to inform clinical practice; junior doctors obtain surgical consent frequently, yet this process was likely undertaken sub‐optimally; and current knowledge gaps include capacity assessment, decision‐making and pre‐procedural consent checks.

Conclusion

Planned surgical consent processes are complex, and both surgeons and perioperative nurses are essential during the process. While surgeons have responsibility to obtain consent, perioperative nurses provide a safety net in the surgical consent process checking the surgical consent information is correct and has been understood by the patient. Such actions may influence consent validity and patient safety in the operating room. Knowledge gaps about capacity assessment, decision‐making, pre‐procedural checks and the impact of junior doctors obtaining consent on patient understanding, safety and legal claims are evident.

Relevance to clinical practice

This review highlights the importance of the surgical nurse's role in the planned surgical consent process. While the responsibility for obtaining surgical consent lies with the surgeon, the nurse's role verifying consent information is crucial as they act as a safety net and can reduce error in the operating room.

No patient or public contribution

The authors declare that no patient or public contribution was made to this review in accordance with the aim to map existing literature from the healthcare professionals' perspective.
The clinical course of herpes zoster is similar in immunocompetent and immunocompromised paediatric patients
Authors: Bieńkowski Carlo , Talarek Ewa , Pokorska‐Śpiewak Maria
Published: June 2023

Aim

We aimed to compare the clinical manifestation of HZ in immunocompetent and immunocompromised children.

Methods

Medical charts of all consecutive children hospitalized and/or consulted in the Regional Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Warsaw due to HZ were retrospectively analysed. Age, history of varicella, time interval between varicella and HZ, underlying diseases, immunosuppresive therapy, dermatome involvement and HZ complications were analyzed in both groups.

Results

In total 152 children were included in the analysis, 56 (36.84%) of them were hospitalsed, whereas 96 (63.16%) were consulted and discharged home due to good general condition. The median age was 10 years (IQR 5.75–12), there were 73 (48.03%) boys and 79 (51.97%) girls. In 16/152 (10.5%) one or more complications occurred, including: skin bacterial superinfection (16/17, 94.2%), sepsis (1/17, 5.9%), meningitis (1/17, 5.9%). Thoracic dermatomes were the most commonly affected (81/152, 53.29%). Most of the children didn't have any immunodeficiencies 118/152 (77.6%), and 34/152 (22.4%) of them were immunocompromised (and had been treated with intravenous acyclovir). The clinical picture of the disease was similar in both groups (Table 1). However, immunocompromised children more often had sacral dermatomes affected (5/35, 14.3% vs. 1/117, 0.9%, p < 0.001), and less often thoracic dermatomes were involved in this group (12/35, 34.3% vs. 69/117, 59%, p = 0.0102).

Conclusions

To conclude, herpes zoster occurs in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised children. Clinical manifestations are similar. Serious complications, although uncommon, affect not only immunocompromised patients but also otherwise healthy children.
Revealing a potential necroptosis‐related axis (RP11‐138A9.1/hsa‐miR‐98‐5p/ZBP1) in periodontitis by construction of the ceRNA network
Authors: Wang Zhenxiang , Chen Hang , Peng Limin , He Yujuan , Zhang Xiaonan
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives

Periodontitis, a prevalent chronic inflammatory condition, poses a significant risk of tooth loosening and subsequent tooth loss. Within the realm of programmed cell death, a recently recognized process known as necroptosis has garnered attention for its involvement in numerous inflammatory diseases. Nevertheless, its correlation with periodontitis is indistinct. Our study aimed to identify necroptosis‐related lncRNAs and crucial lncRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA regulatory axes in periodontitis to further understand the pathogenesis of periodontitis.

Materials and Methods

Gene expression profiles in gingival tissues were acquired from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Selecting hub necroptosis‐related lncRNA and extracting the key lncRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA axes based on the ceRNA network by adding novel machine‐learning models based on conventional analysis and combining qRT‐PCR validation. Then, an artificial neural network (ANN) model was constructed for lncRNA in regulatory axes, and the accuracy of the model was validated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The clinical effect of the model was evaluated by decision curve analysis (DCA). Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) and single‐sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was performed to explore how these lncRNAs work in periodontitis.

Results

Seven hub necroptosis‐related lncRNAs and three lncRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA regulatory axes (RP11‐138A9.1/hsa‐miR‐98‐5p/ZBP1 axis, RP11‐96D1.11/hsa‐miR‐185‐5p/EZH2 axis, and RP4‐773 N10.4/hsa‐miR‐21‐5p/TLR3 axis) were predicted. WGCNA revealed that RP11‐138A9.1 was significantly correlated with the “purple module”. Functional enrichment analysis and ssGSEA demonstrated that the RP11‐138A9.1/hsa‐miR‐98‐5p/ZBP1 axis is closely related to the inflammation and immune processes in periodontitis.

Conclusion

Our study predicted a crucial necroptosis‐related regulatory axis (RP11‐138A9.1/hsa‐miR‐98‐5p/ZBP1) based on the ceRNA network, which may aid in elucidating the role and mechanism of necroptosis in periodontitis.
Cognitive factors and processes in models of insomnia: A systematic review
Authors: Tang Nicole K. Y. , Saconi Bruno , Jansson‐Fröjmark Markus , Ong Jason C. , Carney Colleen E.
Published: June 2023

Cognition is central to the experience of insomnia. Although unhelpful thoughts about and around insomnia are a primary treatment target of cognitive behaviour therapy for insomnia, cognitive constructs are termed and conceptualised differently in different theories of insomnia proposed over the past decades. In search of consensus in thinking, the current systematic review identified cognitive factors and processes featured in theoretical models of insomnia and mapped any commonality between models. We systematically searched PsycINFO and PubMed for published theoretical articles on the development, maintenance and remission of insomnia, from inception of databases to February, 2023. A total of 2458 records were identified for title and abstract screening. Of these, 34 were selected for full‐text assessment and 12 included for analysis and data synthesis following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We identified nine distinguishable models of insomnia published between 1982 and 2023 and extracted 20 cognitive factors and processes featured in these models; 39 if sub‐factors were counted. After assigning similarity ratings, we observed a high degree of overlap between constructs despite apparent differences in terminologies and measurement methods. As a result, we highlight shifts in thinking around cognitions associated with insomnia and discuss future directions.
Kinetics of serum O‐glycosylated M‐hepatitis B surface antigen with hepatocellular carcinoma history and nucleos(t)ide analogue therapy in hepatitis B patients
Authors: Okumura Taiki , Joshita Satoru , Iwadare Takanobu , Wakabayashi Shun‐ichi , Kobayashi Hiroyuki , Yamashita Yuki , Sugiura Ayumi , Kimura Takefumi , Umemura Takeji
Published: June 2023

A newly developed O‐glycosylated M‐hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAgGi) measurement system can detect hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) associated with infectious particles. We investigated the association of HBsAgGi levels with clinical parameters and a history of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development in a cross‐sectional cohort analysis (Study 1) as well as the quantitative changes in HBsAgGi during nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA) therapy in a longitudinal cohort analysis (Study 2). A total of 124 patients with genotype C chronic HBV infection were analysed in Study 1 to evaluate correlations of HBsAgGi with conventional HBV markers and HCC history. Among those, 36 patients receiving NA therapy were enrolled in Study 2 for quantitative comparisons between pre‐treatment baseline and 48 weeks of NA therapy. In Study 1, serum HBsAgGi was significantly associated with HBsAg (r = .5857, p < .00001) and weakly but significantly correlated with HBV DNA (r = .2936, p = .001). Although HBsAgGi (p = .111) was comparable between HCC history (+) group and HCC history (−) group, the HBsAgGi/HBsAg ratio (p = .011) was significantly higher in HCC history (+) patients. In Study 2, HBsAgGi was significantly decreased after 48 weeks of NA therapy (p < .001). HBsAg findings were similar (p = .005) along with an HBV DNA reduction (p < .001). In the baseline hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) (+) subgroup, HBsAgGi decreased significantly between baseline and 48 weeks of NA (p = .005), while HBsAg was comparable (p = .051). Low HBsAg and high HBsAgGi were associated with a history of HCC development. HBsAgGi decreased significantly by 48‐week NA therapy.
Putting the cart before the horse—Dal Lake's Tale of Woe
Authors: Qureshi Neha W. , Aditya Korekallu Srinivasa , Krishnan M. , Gopalakrishnan Badri Narayanan
Published: June 2023

Dal Lake is not only the centre of tourist attraction, but also an important livelihood source for the local population. The economic activities over the years in and around the lake have intensified, resulting in pollution, eutrophication and encroachment of the lake. The present study examined the multiple economic activities carried out on Dal Lake, estimated the net welfare generated, and subsequently developed a solution focusing on establishing an optimal trade‐off between the economic activities and pollution abatement expenditures incurred by the government. Employing optimization techniques, needed modifications in the configuration of the enterprises and the pollution abatement costs that could maximize the net welfare from Dal Lake were identified. The economic welfare of the three enterprises was maximized at the optimal level of INR 5684.85 million, with a pollution‐abating investment of INR 13.21 million.
Summanen structure: Further geological and geophysical evidence of a meteorite impact event in Central Finland
Authors: Hietala Satu , Jokinen Jarkko , Lerssi Jouni , Niskanen Matti , Pesonen Lauri J. , Plado Jüri
Published: June 2023

The Summanen structure is located in Central Finland and is one of Finland's 12 known meteorite impact structures. In 2017, the discovery of Summanen was based on numerous shatter cone boulders with planar deformation features (PDFs) and a circular electromagnetic anomaly, which is 2.6 km in diameter. The site was revisited in 2020 and 2022, and shatter cone‐bearing outcrops were discovered. PDFs and feather features were identified in samples from these outcrops. A total of 38 PDF sets in 27 quartz grains resulted in rational crystallographic orientations concentrating on {104}, {103}, {102}, and {112}, implying shock pressures of 2–20 GPa. Gravity measurements were taken, and the electrical conductivity of the structure was studied. The gravimetric results revealed a circular negative anomaly of about 4 km in diameter, with an amplitude of −3.5 mGal. Excluding the gravitational effect of water and Quaternary sediments reduces the anomaly to −1.6 mGal. A bowl‐shaped conductive layer, likely containing relict saline water in the impact‐fractured bedrock, was identified to a depth of 240 m. Topographic and bathymetric data were combined to determine the impact's effect and interpret the level of erosion. Cobbles of sedimentary sand‐ and siltstones were found on the coastline of Lake Summanen. Based on their similarity to those found in the Söderfjärden impact crater with a Cambrian age, it is likely that these rocks and post‐impact infill are also of a similar age.
Heterogeneity of the group B streptococcal type VII secretion system and influence on colonization of the female genital tract
Authors: Spencer Brady L. , Job Alyx M. , Robertson Clare M. , Hameed Zainab A. , Serchejian Camille , Wiafe‐Kwakye Caitlin S. , Mendonça Jéssica C. , Apolonio Morgan A. , Nagao Prescilla E. , Neely Melody N. , Korotkova Natalia , Korotkov Konstantin V. , Patras Kathryn A. , Doran Kelly S.
Published: June 2023

Type VIIb secretion systems (T7SSb) in Gram‐positive bacteria facilitate physiology, interbacterial competition, and/or virulence via EssC ATPase‐driven secretion of small ɑ‐helical proteins and toxins. Recently, we characterized T7SSb in group B Streptococcus (GBS), a leading cause of infection in newborns and immunocompromised adults. GBS T7SS comprises four subtypes based on variation in the C‐terminus of EssC and the repertoire of downstream effectors; however, the intraspecies diversity of GBS T7SS and impact on GBS‐host interactions remains unknown. Bioinformatic analysis indicates that GBS T7SS loci encode subtype‐specific putative effectors, which have low interspecies and inter‐subtype homology but contain similar domains/motifs and therefore may serve similar functions. We further identify orphaned GBS WXG100 proteins. Functionally, we show that GBS T7SS subtype I and III strains secrete EsxA in vitro and that in subtype I strain CJB111, esxA1 appears to be differentially transcribed from the T7SS operon. Furthermore, we observe subtype‐specific effects of GBS T7SS on host colonization, as CJB111 subtype I but not CNCTC 10/84 subtype III T7SS promotes GBS vaginal colonization. Finally, we observe that T7SS subtypes I and II are the predominant subtypes in clinical GBS isolates. This study highlights the potential impact of T7SS heterogeneity on host‐GBS interactions.
Carotid artery stenting after balloon aortic valvuloplasty in cervical internal carotid artery stenosis associated with severe aortic stenosis: A case report
Authors: Kitabayashi T. , Misaki Kouichi , Kamide T. , Nakada M.
Published: June 2023

Carotid artery stenting (CAS) is contraindicated in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). However, it is required for treating those with symptomatic internal CA (ICA) stenosis and severe AS. This is the first report of successful CAS after balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) in a patient having ICA stenosis accompanied with severe AS. An 82‐year‐old man with a history of severe AS presented with amaurosis fugax due to severe stenosis at the left ICA. We performed CAS just after BAV. No perioperative complications were reported. It might be a useful treatment strategy for symptomatic ICA stenosis with severe AS.
Parry–Romberg syndrome—Still progressing over 20 years of disease course
Authors: Thoibisana Ashem , Mishra Biswamohan , Elavarasi Arunmozhimaran , Singh Rajesh Kumar , Vibha Deepti , Gaikwad Shailesh , Tripathi Manjari
Published: June 2023

Parry–Romberg syndrome presents with atrophy of one‐half of the face involving skin, soft tissue, muscle, and bone. It usually progresses slowly over 2–20 years and finally stabilizes. Neuropsychiatric abnormalities are subtle, seen in about 10% of the patients, and include cognitive disturbances, aphasia, hallucination, and other psychiatric disorders. We describe the case of a young female who had progressive brain atrophy over 20 years of disease course and presented with focal seizures and recent onset progressive cognitive impairment.
The proteinuria‐lowering effects of dapagliflozin are associated with an initial decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Murakoshi Maki , Kobayashi Takashi , Kihara Masao , Ueda Seiji , Suzuki Yusuke , Gohda Tomohito
Published: June 2023

Aim

Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitor, dapagliflozin (DAPA) reduced albuminuria and slowed down the decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the DAPA‐CKD trial. However, proteinuria (albuminuria) does not necessarily decrease in all patients in real‐world clinical settings. Therefore, we aimed to identify the clinical characteristics of patients with CKD and decreased proteinuria in response to DAPA treatment.

Methods

Of 106 patients with CKD, 54 patients were finally included who received 10 mg of DAPA once daily. Patients whose urinary protein‐to‐creatinine ratio (UPCR) decreased by >30% or ≤30% from baseline after 1 month of treatment were defined as responders and non‐responders, respectively.

Results

At baseline, median eGFR and UPCR were 45.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 (interquartile range [IQR], 29.7, 54.6) and 1.09 g/gCr (IQR, 0.52, 1.91), respectively. After 1 month of treatment, the mean decline in eGFR and reduction in UPCR was 6.5% (standard deviation [SD], 7.2%) and 6.6% (SD, 42.1%) from baseline, respectively. Moreover, the blood pressure, eGFR, and uric acid decreased significantly from baseline, but haemoglobin and serum potassium did not change. The median UPCR decreased significantly in patients with UPCR ≥0.5 g/gCr, but not <0.5 g/gCr at baseline. UPCR responders had a greater initial decline in eGFR at 1 month than non‐responders.

Conclusion

The percent changes in UPCR were positively associated with the initial decline rate in eGFR in patients with CKD with a UPCR ≥0.5 g/gCr at baseline after 1 month of DAPA treatment.
Erdheim‐Chester disease of brain parenchyma without any systemic involvement: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Aktan Suzgun Merve , Everest Elif , Kucukyurt Selin , Tutuncu Melih , Uygunoglu Ugur , Eskazan Ahmet Emre , Ture Ugur , Budka Herbert , Sav Aydin , Siva Aksel
Published: June 2023

Erdheim‐Chester disease is a non‐Langerhans cell histiocytosis syndrome characterised by histiocytic infiltration of different organs and systems in the body. Erdheim‐Chester disease with isolated central nervous system (CNS) involvement causes diagnostic difficulties due to the absence of systemic findings and may result in misdiagnosis and inaccurate treatment choices. The case discussed in this report exemplifies how challenging it is to diagnose Erdheim‐Chester disease with isolated CNS involvement. This case, which presented with progressive pyramidocerebellar syndrome, was clinically and radiologically resistant to all immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory treatments administered. The presence of false negative results in repeated histopathological investigations and the absence of evidence for systemic disease hindered the diagnosis and treatment work‐up. In this study, we reviewed and discussed the prominent features of the presented case in light of the relevant literature.
Tryptophan‐synthesizing bacteria enhance colonic motility
Authors: Legan Theresa B. , Lavoie Brigitte , Norberg Emilia , Ley Isabella C. , Tack Stephanie , Tompkins Thomas A. , Wargo Matthew J. , Mawe Gary M.
Published: June 2023

Background

An emerging strategy to treat symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) dysmotility utilizes the administration of isolated bacteria. However, the underlying mechanisms of action of these bacterial agents are not well established. Here, we elucidate a novel approach to promote intestinal motility by exploiting the biochemical capability of specific bacteria to produce the serotonin (5‐HT) precursor, tryptophan (Trp).

Methods

Mice were treated daily for 1 week by oral gavage of Bacillus (B.) subtilis (R0179), heat‐inactivated R0179, or a tryptophan synthase‐null strain of B. subtilis (1A2). Tissue levels of Trp, 5‐HT, and 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5‐HIAA) were measured and changes in motility were evaluated.

Key results

Mice treated with B. subtilis R0179 exhibited greater colonic tissue levels of Trp and the 5‐HT breakdown product, 5‐HIAA, compared to vehicle‐treated mice. Furthermore, B. subtilis treatment accelerated colonic motility in both healthy mice as well as in a mouse model of constipation. These effects were not observed with heat‐inactivated R0179 or the live 1A2 strain that does not express tryptophan synthase. Lastly, we found that the prokinetic effects of B. subtilis R0179 were blocked by coadministration of a 5‐HT4 receptor (5‐HT4R) antagonist and were absent in 5‐HT4R knockout mice.

Conclusions and inferences

Taken together, these data demonstrate that intestinal motility can be augmented by treatment with bacteria that synthesize Trp, possibly through increased 5‐HT signaling and/or actions of Trp metabolites, and involvement of the 5‐HT4R. Our findings provide mechanistic insight into a transient and predictable bacterial strategy to promote GI motility.
Listening to plant's Esperanto via root exudates: reprogramming the functional expression of plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria
Authors: Feng Haichao , Fu Ruixin , Luo Jiayu , Hou Xueqin , Gao Kun , Su Lv , Xu Yu , Miao Youzhi , Liu Yunpeng , Xu Zhihui , Zhang Nan , Shen Qirong , Xun Weibing , Zhang Ruifu
Published: June 2023

Rhizomicrobiome plays important roles in plant growth and health, contributing to the sustainable development of agriculture. Plants recruit and assemble the rhizomicrobiome to satisfy their functional requirements, which is widely recognized as the ‘cry for help’ theory, but the intrinsic mechanisms are still limited.

In this study, we revealed a novel mechanism by which plants reprogram the functional expression of inhabited rhizobacteria, in addition to the de novo recruitment of soil microbes, to satisfy different functional requirements as plants grow. This might be an efficient and low‐cost strategy and a substantial extension to the rhizomicrobiome recruitment theory.

We found that the plant regulated the sequential expression of genes related to biocontrol and plant growth promotion in two well‐studied rhizobacteria Bacillus velezensis SQR9 and Pseudomonas protegens CHA0 through root exudate succession across the plant developmental stages. Sixteen key chemicals in root exudates were identified to significantly regulate the rhizobacterial functional gene expression by high‐throughput qPCR.

This study not only deepens our understanding of the interaction between the plant–rhizosphere microbiome, but also provides a novel strategy to regulate and balance the different functional expression of the rhizomicrobiome to improve plant health and growth.
Is chloroplast size optimal for photosynthetic efficiency?
Authors: Głowacka Katarzyna , Kromdijk Johannes , Salesse‐Smith Coralie E. , Smith Cailin , Driever Steven M. , Long Stephen P.
Published: June 2023

Improving photosynthetic efficiency has recently emerged as a promising way to increase crop production in a sustainable manner. While chloroplast size may affect photosynthetic efficiency in several ways, we aimed to explore whether chloroplast size manipulation can be a viable approach to improving photosynthetic performance.

Several tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) lines with contrasting chloroplast sizes were generated via manipulation of chloroplast division genes to assess photosynthetic performance under steady‐state and fluctuating light. A selection of lines was included in a field trial to explore productivity.

Lines with enlarged chloroplasts underperformed in most of the measured traits. Lines with smaller and more numerous chloroplasts showed a similar efficiency compared with wild‐type (WT) tobacco. Chloroplast size only weakly affected light absorptance and light profiles within the leaf. Increasing chloroplast size decreased mesophyll conductance (gm) but decreased chloroplast size did not increase gm. Increasing chloroplast size reduced chloroplast movements and enhanced non‐photochemical quenching. The chloroplast smaller than WT appeared to be no better than WT for photosynthetic efficiency and productivity under field conditions.

The results indicate that chloroplast size manipulations are therefore unlikely to lead to higher photosynthetic efficiency or growth.
What has philosophy ever done for nursing: A discursive shift from margins to mainstream
Authors: Georges Jane M.
Published: June 2023

This paper is a personal dialogue of maneuvering the landscape of scholarship in the United States as a nurse faculty. The principal thesis of this paper is that a discursive shift from margins to mainstream literature has occurred within nursing discourse during the past 20 years as the result of a growing body of work by nurse philosophers. I utilize my own work in nursing philosophy as an exemplar and provide a narrative situated in a feminist‐critical paradigm. This paper: (1) presents a historical background through a critical‐feminist lens of the discursive shift using my own work and lived experiences as exemplars; (2) examines a contemporary mainstream ‘authoritative’ text as an exemplar of this discursive shift and (3) proposes both potential positive intersections and threats in the future development of nursing philosophy resulting from this discursive shift.
Impacts of nutrition counseling on depression and obesity: A scoping review
Authors: Milligan Meredith N. , Duemling Kathleen , Radovanovic Natasa , Alkozah Maria , Riblet Natalie
Published: June 2023

This scoping review aims to evaluate the impact of nutrition counseling on mental health and wellbeing among people affected by obesity. Depression and obesity are major sources of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The prevalence of obesity is higher in patients with severe or suboptimally managed depression. Change in dietary quality prompted by nutrition counseling may pose a unique opportunity for intervention. Of the 1745 studies identified, 26 studies (total n = 6727) met inclusion criteria. Due to the heterogeneity of methods and outcome reporting, it was not possible to perform meta‐analysis. Across all included studies, 34 different scales were used to quantify mental health/wellbeing. Eleven studies (42.3%) reported statistically significant findings between intervention and control groups. Only two of these studies assessed nutrition counseling independently rather than as part of a multidisciplinary intervention. Overall, many studies have examined the role of nutrition counseling on mental health/wellbeing in individuals affected by obesity. However, due to inconsistency in study methodologies and outcome measurement tools, it is challenging to draw robust or clinically meaningful conclusions about the effects of nutrition counseling on mental health in this population.
Dental caries in HIV‐infected children and adolescents: A systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Faé Daniele Sorgatto , de Aquino Sibele Nascimento , Verner Francielle Silvestre , Lemos Cleidiel Aparecido Araujo
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the risk of dental caries in between human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected and uninfected children and adolescents. An electronic search was performed on PubMed/MEDLINE, Web‐of‐Science, Scopus, LILACS, ProQuest, and ClinicalTrials.gov up to May 2022. The critical appraisal checklist developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies. Meta‐analysis was performed using the RevMan 5.4. Sixteen studies were included. A total of 3231 participants were evaluated, including 1701 and 1530 HIV‐infected and uninfected children and adolescents, respectively. The meta‐analysis revealed a higher risk of dental caries for primary dentitions in HIV‐infected children and adolescents by decayed, missing, filled tooth (dmft) (SMD:0.34; p = 0.006) and decayed, missing, filled surface (dmfs) scores (SMD:0.37; p = 0.001). Similar results were observed for permanent dentition, with increased dental caries in HIV‐infected children and adolescents with DMFT (SMD:0.32; p = 0.003) and DMFS (SMD:1.78; p < 0.0001) scores. Regarding the quality assessment, most of the included studies were moderate or good quality. However, the certainty of the evidence of the outcomes was very low. This systematic review and meta‐analysis showed higher caries severity in permanent and deciduous teeth among HIV‐infected children and adolescents.
Palmitic acid induces GSDMD‐mediated pyroptosis in periodontal ligament cells via the NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Sun Bing‐Jing , Chen Mei‐Hua , Zhang Wei‐Hua , Zhao Bing‐Jiao , Zhang Meng‐Han , Han Xin‐Xin , Yu Li‐Ming , Liu Yue‐Hua
Published: June 2023

Objective

Obesity can affect periodontal tissues and exacerbate periodontitis. Pyroptosis, a newly identified type of inflammatory cell death, is involved in the development of periodontal inflammation. The saturated fatty acid palmitic acid (PA) is elevated in obese patients. The effect of PA on pyroptosis in periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) and its underlying mechanisms remain unknown.

Materials and Methods

Human PDLCs were isolated from healthy individuals and cultured for experiments. The effects of PA on PDLC pyroptosis and the underlying mechanisms were examined by transmission electron microscopy, quantitative real‐time PCR and western blotting.

Results

The morphology of PDLCs in the PA group indicated pyroptotic characteristics, including swollen cells, plasma membrane rupture and changes in subcellular organelles. PA induced inflammatory responses in PDLCs, as indicated by an increase in IL‐1β in the cell culture supernatant. Furthermore, we found that the pyroptosis‐related proteins caspase‐1, caspase‐4 and GSDMD were involved in PA‐induced cell death. GSDMD and caspase‐4 inhibitors alleviated pyroptotic death of PDLCs. Moreover, PA promoted NF‐κB P65 phosphorylation. A NF‐κB inhibitor decreased IL‐1β expression and partly rescued cell death induced by PA.

Conclusion

PA activated the NF‐κB pathway and induced the inflammatory response in PDLCs. Caspase‐4/GSDMD mediated PDLC pyroptosis induced by PA.
miR‐148a‐3p regulates proliferation and apoptosis of idiopathic gingival fibroma by targeting NPTX1
Authors: Sun Yuyang , Xie Liangkun , Ren Xiaobin , Ran Liquan , He Hongbing , Kong Fanying , Yang Shuran , Zhang Mingzhu
Published: June 2023

Objective

Idiopathic gingival fibromatosis (IGF) is a rare heterogeneous disease that results in the progressive and diffuse hyperplasia of gingival tissues. MicroRNAs are implicated in the development and progression of various tumors. The present study aimed to explore the potential roles and mechanisms of miR‐148a‐3p in IGF.

Methods

Gingival fibroblasts (GFs) were transfected with miR‐148a‐3p mimics, miR‐148a‐3p inhibitors, or siNPTX1, and then, the proliferation and apoptosis of GFs and the expression of related genes were evaluated using Cell Counting Kit‐8 assays, 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine assays, flow cytometry, reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and western blot analysis, respectively.

Results

miR‐148a‐3p was highly expressed in GFs of IGF (IGF‐GFs) as compared with normal GFs (N‐GFs). Overexpression of miR‐148a‐3p promoted the proliferation and inhibited the apoptosis of N‐GFs, whereas downregulation of miR‐148a‐3p had the opposite effect in IGF‐GFs. Knockdown of NPTX1 reversed miR‐148a‐3p‐mediated effects in IGF‐GFs. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay confirmed that NPTX1 is a direct target of miR‐148a‐3p.

Conclusion

These findings identify that miR‐148a‐3p could regulate cell proliferation and apoptosis by targeting NPTX1, providing new insights for the further study of the molecular mechanism and treatment of IGF.
Effects of low nitrogen supply on biochemical and physiological parameters related to nitrate and water, involving nitrate transporters and aquaporins in Citrus macrophylla
Authors: Garcia‐Gomez P. , Olmos‐Ruiz R. , Nicolas‐Espinosa J. , Carvajal M.
Published: June 2023

A reduction in chemical N‐based fertillizer was investigated in Citrus plants. As N and water uptake are connected, the relationship between the physiological response to reductions in N was studied in relation to N metabolism and water.

We examined the response of new and mature leaves and roots of Citrus macrophylla, grown under controlled conditions, and given different concentrations of N: 16, 8 or 4 mM. Differences in growth and development were determined for biochemical (mineral content, photosynthetic pigments, proteins and nitrate and nitrite reductase activity), physiological (photosynthesis and transpiration), and molecular (relative expression of nitrate transporters and aquaporins) parameters.

Only plants given 4 mM N showed a reduction in growth. Although there were changes in NR activity, protein synthesis, and chlorophyll content in both 8 and 4 mM N plants that were highly related to aquaporin and nitrate transporter expression.

The results revealed new findings on the relationship between aquaporins and nitrate transporters in new leaves of Citrus, suggesting a mechanism for ensuring growth under low N when new tissues are being formed.
“Rear bias” in spatial auditory perception: Attentional and affective vigilance to sounds occurring outside the visual field
Authors: Olszanowski Michal , Frankowska Natalia , Tołopiło Aleksandra
Published: June 2023

Presented studies explored the rear bias phenomenon, that is, the attentional and affective bias to sounds occurring behind the listener. Physiological and psychological reactions (i.e., fEMG, EDA/SCR, Simple Reaction Task–SRT, and self‐assessments of affect‐related states) were measured in response to tones of different frequencies (Study 1) and emotional vocalizations (Study 2) presented in rear and front spatial locations. Results showed that emotional vocalizations, when located in the back, facilitate reactions related to attention orientation (i.e., auricularis muscle response and simple reaction times) and evoke higher arousal—both physiological (as measured by SCR) and psychological (self‐assessment scale). Importantly, observed asymmetries were larger for negative and threat‐related signals (e.g., anger) than positive/nonthreatening ones (e.g., achievement). By contrast, there were only small differences for the relatively higher frequency tones. The observed relationships are discussed in terms of one of the postulated auditory system's functions, which is monitoring of the environment in order to quickly detect potential threats that occur outside of the visual field (e.g., behind one's back).
Feasibility evaluation of two novel systems for the automated preparation and extended storage of DMSO cryopreserved platelets
Authors: Dumont Larry J. , Wolfe Brian , Leite Caroline , Moss Raymond , Wegener Christopher , Thompson Kyle , Min Kyungyoon
Published: June 2023

Background

Manufacturing methods for dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)‐cryopreserved platelets (CPPs) are manual and labor intensive. Thawing and prepare‐for‐transfusion steps are in an open system that requires transfusion within 4 h. A fill‐and‐finish system (CUE) can automate the manufacturing process. A newly configured bag system allows freezing, thawing, and use of resuspension solutions while maintaining the functionally closed system, and extending the post‐thaw shelf life beyond 4 h. Our objective is to evaluate the feasibility of the CUE system and the functionally closed bag system.

Study design and Methods

DMSO was volumetrically added to double‐dose apheresis platelets, concentrated, and delivered to a 50‐ or 500‐mL ethylene‐vinyl acetate (EVA) bag by the CUE (n = 12). The functionally closed bag system contained 25 mL platelet additive solution 3 (PAS‐3) in a 50‐mL EVA bag. Control CPP (n = 2) were manually prepared. PAS‐3 and CPP were thawed together. CPP were stored up to 98 h (20–24°C) and tested using a standard assay panel.

Results

CUE prepared CPP met the design targets: volume, platelet content, and DMSO concentration. CUE CPP P‐selectin was high. CD42b, phosphatidylserine (PS) expression, and live cell percentage were favorable compared to controls and favorably maintained over storage. The thrombin generation potency was slightly reduced compared to controls. The 50 mL EVA bag maintained pH for up to 30 h, and the 500 mL EVA bag beyond 76 h.

Discussion

The CUE system presents a technically feasible method to prepare CPP. A functionally closed bag system with resuspension solution was successful and can extend the post‐thaw storage time of CPP.