bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deletion of MyD88 adaptor in nociceptor alleviates low-dose formalin-induced acute pain and persistent pain in mice
Authors: Jiang Zuo-Jie , Li Qing-Yi , Zhang Ying-Ying , Zeng Mei-Xing , Hu Han , Zhang Feng-Ming , Bi Ling-Bo , Gu Jia-Hui , Liu Xing-Jun
Published: February 2021

The myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) adaptor mediates signaling by Toll-like receptors and some interleukins (ILs) in neural and non-neuronal cells. Recently, MyD88 protein was found to express in primary sensory neurons and be involved in the maintenance of persistent pain induced by complete Freund’s adjuvant, chronic constriction injury and chemotherapy treatment in rodents. However, whether MyD88 in nociceptive neurons contributes to persistent pain induced by intraplantar injection of formalin remains elusive. Here, using conditional knockout (CKO) mice, we found that selective deletion of Myd88 in Nav1.8-expressing primary nociceptive neurons led to reduced pain response in the recovery phase of 1% formalin-induced mechanical pain and impaired the persistent thermal pain. Moreover, CKO mice exhibited reduced phase II pain response in 1%, but not 5%, formalin-induced acute inflammatory pain. Finally, nociceptor MyD88 deletion resulted in less neuronal c-Fos activation in spinal dorsal horns following 1% formalin stimulation. These data suggest that MyD88 in nociceptive neurons is not only involved in persistent mechanical pain but also promotes the transition from acute inflammatory pain to persistent thermal hyperalgesia induced by low-dose formalin stimulation.
Investigation of polycystic ovarian syndrome: variation in practice and impact on the speed of diagnosis
Authors: Karia Amar M. , Duff Christopher J. , Heald Adrian H. , Britton Ingrid , Fryer Anthony A. , Wu Pensée
Published: February 2021

Objective

Accurate diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) enables clinical interventions/cardiometabolic risk factor management. Diagnosis can take over 2 years and multiple clinician contacts. We examined patterns of PCOS-associated biochemical investigations following initial consultation prior to pelvic ultrasound scan (USS).

Methods

We determined in 206 women (i) the range of different biochemical test panels used in the diagnosis of PCOS in primary/secondary care prior to USS relative to national guidance in the UK and (ii) the relation between testing patterns and time to USS to highlight potential delays introduced by inappropriate testing.

Results

In these 206 women, 47 different test combinations were requested at initial venepuncture; only 7 (3%) had the test panel suggested in UK guidance (follicle-stimulating hormone/luteinizing hormone/testosterone/sex hormone-binding globulin/prolactin). The number of tests performed prior to USS varied from one test to all seven tests. There was an inverse relation between the number of biochemistry tests requested at initial venepuncture episode and ‘time to scan’. Those who had <3 tests had a significantly longer time from first request to USS (median 70 days) than those with 3–7 tests (median 40 days; P = 0.002). One venepuncture episode prior to USS was associated with shorter ‘time to scan’ (median 29 days) than those with 2–4 episodes (median 255 days; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

There was no identifiable pattern to biochemical investigations requested as part of the initial diagnostic evaluation in women with suspected PCOS. We recommend standardization of the initial biochemical panel of analytes for PCOS workup, with incorporation into hospital/general practice ordering software systems.
Alpha Event-related Desynchronization During Reward Processing in Schizophrenia
Authors: Marton Tobias F. , Roach Brian J. , Holroyd Clay B. , Ford Judith M. , McQuaid John R. , Mathalon Daniel H. , Fryer Susanna L.
Published: February 2021

Background

Deficits in the way the brain processes rewards may contribute to negative symptoms in schizophrenia. Synchronization of alpha band neural oscillations is a dominant EEG signal when people are awake, but at rest. In contrast, alpha desynchronization to salient events is thought to direct allocation of information processing resources away from the internal state, to process salient stimuli in the external environment. Here, we hypothesize that alpha event-related desynchronization (ERD) during reward processing is altered in schizophrenia, leading to less difference in alpha ERD magnitude between winning and losing outcomes.

Methods

EEG was recorded while participants (patients with schizophrenia (SZ)=54; healthy controls (HC) = 54) completed a casino-style slot machine gambling task. Total power, a measure of neural oscillation magnitude was measured in the alpha frequency range (8-14 Hz), time-locked to reward delivery, extracted via principal components analysis, and then compared between groups and equiprobable win and near miss loss reward outcomes. Associations between alpha power and negative symptoms and trait rumination were examined.

Results

A significant Group X Reward Outcome interaction (p=.018) was explained by differences within the HC group, driven by significant posterior-occipital alpha desynchronization to wins, relative to near miss losses (p<.001). In contrast, SZ did not modulate alpha power to wins vs. near miss losses (p>.1), nor did alpha power relate to negative symptoms (p>.1). However, across all participants, less alpha ERD to reward outcomes was related to more trait rumination, for both wins (p=.005) and near-miss losses (p=.002), with no group differences observed in the slopes of these relationships.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that event-related modulation of alpha power is altered in schizophrenia during reward outcome processing, even when reward attainment places minimal demands on higher-order cognitive processes during slot machine play. In addition, high trait rumination is associated with less event-related desynchronization to reward feedback, suggesting that rumination covaries with less external attentional allocation to reward processing, regardless of reward outcome valence and group membership.
Response of whitefly to the wild tomatoSolanum habrochaites
Authors: Li Fengqi , Dewer Youssef , Tian Jiahui , Li Du , Qu Cheng , Yang Zhen , Luo Chen
Published: February 2021

The whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) causes severe damage to cultivated tomato in many regions of the world through direct feeding and indirectly through transmission of plant viruses. Field observations show that B. tabaci is rarely infested the non-host plants such as the wild tomato Solanum habrochaites; however, the molecular mechanism involved in the recognition of wild plant odors is still unclear. In this study, we assessed the effects of S. habrochaites on the survival, fecundity, and egg hatchability of the Mediterranean (MED) species of B. tabaci. Expression and splicing of stress-response genes in whitefly exposed to S. habrochaites was analyzed using RNA-sequencing data and alternative splicing analysis. These results indicated that the S. habrochaites treatment can induce the expression of environmental stress genes in B. tabaci. This study may help us to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the olfactory recognition of non-host volatiles particularly wild tomato relative. Furthermore, the findings of this study may provide excellent chances of finding a suitable antagonist of eco-friendly properties which can block the perception of chemosensory signals. Thereby, the feeding behavior and food preferences of B. tabaci can be manipulated and thus insect populations can eventually be controlled.
Identification of Hsp90 inhibitors as potential drugs for the treatment of TSC1/TSC2 deficient cancer
Authors: Mrozek Evelyn M. , Bajaj Vineeta , Guo Yanan , Malinowska Izabela A. , Zhang Jianming , Kwiatkowski David J.
Published: February 2021

Inactivating mutations in eitherTSC1orTSC2cause Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, an autosomal dominant disorder, characterized by multi-system tumor and hamartoma development. Mutation and loss of function ofTSC1and/orTSC2also occur in a variety of sporadic cancers, and rapamycin and related drugs show highly variable treatment benefit in patients with such cancers. The TSC1 and TSC2 proteins function in a complex that inhibits mTORC1, a key regulator of cell growth, which acts to enhance anabolic biosynthetic pathways. In this study, we identified and validated five cancer cell lines withTSC1orTSC2mutations and performed a kinase inhibitor drug screen with 197 compounds. The five cell lines were sensitive to several mTOR inhibitors, and cell cycle kinase and HSP90 kinase inhibitors. The IC50 for Torin1 and INK128, both mTOR kinase inhibitors, was significantly increased in three TSC2 null cell lines in which TSC2 expression was restored. Rapamycin was significantly more effective than either INK128 or ganetespib (an HSP90 inhibitor) in reducing the growth of TSC2 null SNU-398 cells in a xenograft model. Combination ganetespib-rapamycin showed no significant enhancement of growth suppression over rapamycin. Hence, although HSP90 inhibitors show strong inhibition of TSC1/TSC2 null cell line growth in vitro, ganetespib showed little benefit at standard dosage in vivo. In contrast, rapamycin which showed very modest growth inhibition in vitro was the best agent for in vivo treatment, but did not cause tumor regression, only growth delay.
Identification of CD4+Sub-population of Resident Cardiac Fibroblasts Linked to Myocardial Fibrosis
Authors: Siamwala Jamila H. , Pagano Francesco S. , Dubielecka Patrycja M , Zhao Alexander , Chen Sonja , Granston Haley , Sadayappan Sakthivel , Rounds Sharon , Gilbert Richard J.
Published: February 2021

Infiltration with inflammatory T-cells and accumulation of cardiac myofibroblasts are hallmarks of cardiac fibrosis and maladaptive remodeling. The origin, identity, and functions of the resident cardiac cells involved in this process are, however, unclear. To determine the identity of cells contained in regions exhibiting fibrosis, mass cytometry profiling was performed using resident human ventricular cardiac fibroblasts and right ventricle autopsy tissues from individuals diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension and SUGEN/hypoxia rats. Results showed that a subpopulation of resident myocardial fibroblasts expresses increased levels of CD4+, a helper T-cell surface marker, in addition to mesenchymal markers in humans and rats. Characterization of the resident cardiac fibroblast subpopulation, both structurally and functionally, using transcriptome and secretome analysis of the secreted cytokines, chemokines, proteins, and metabolites, evidenced that IL-1β induces a phenotypic switch of human cardiac fibroblasts from mesenchymal to CD4+lymphoidal lineagein vitro. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis of FACS-sorted CD4-expressing cardiac fibroblasts further revealed that the transcriptome of such IL-1β-induced CD4+fibroblast population exhibited classical lymphoidal and stem cell-like signatures. Lastly, reversal of cell clustering, phosphorylation of MAPK p38 and NF-κB p65, and phenotypic switching was achieved with the administration of an IL-1R antagonist. In conclusion, we have identified a subpopulation of cardiac fibroblasts which exhibits structural and functional attributes of both mesenchymal and lymphoid cells which is induced by IL-1β-IL-1R-NFkB pathway for differentiation of cardiac fibroblast cells. These data suggest that cardiac fibroblast transdifferentiation during inflammation may form the basis for maladaptive remodeling during myocardial fibrosis.
Effects of L-Dopa, SKF-38393 and Quinpirole on exploratory, anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors in pubertal female and male mice
Authors: Moraes Muiara Aparecida , Árabe Laila Blanc , Resende Bruna Lopes , Codo Beatriz Campos , de Araújo Lima Reis Ana Luiza , de Souza Bruno Rezende
Published: February 2021

Adolescence is a phase of substantial changes in the brain, characterized by maturational remodeling of many systems. This remodeling allows functional plasticity to adapt in a changing environment but turns this period into a neurodevelopmental vulnerable window. The dopaminergic system is under morphological and physiological changes during this phase. The disruption of its balance can lead to molecular variation and abnormal behavior - representing a risk factor for neuropsychiatric disorders. In the present study, we investigated if changes in the dopaminergic tone alter mice behavior in a receptor and sex-specific manner, specifically in the beginning of puberty period. We administered L-Dopa, SKF-38393 (D1 dopamine receptor agonist) and Quinpirole (D2 dopamine receptor agonist) and tested male and female mice motor, anxiety- and depressive-like behavior. While females displayed an impaired exploratory drive, males presented an intense depressive-like response. Our results provide insights into the function of dopaminergic development in adolescent behavior and highlight the importance of studies in this time window with male and female subjects.
Cell-to-cell heterogeneities during extrinsic apoptosis arise from cell cycle progression and transmitotic apoptosis resistance
Authors: Pollak Nadine , Lindner Aline , Imig Dirke , Kuritz Karsten , Fritze Jacques S. , Heinrich Isabel , Stadager Jannis , Eisler Stephan , Stöhr Daniela , Allgöwer Frank , Scheurich Peter , Rehm Markus
Published: February 2021

Extrinsic apoptosis relies on TNF-family receptor activation by immune cells or receptor-activating biologics. Here, we monitored cell cycle progression at minutes resolution to relate apoptosis kinetics and cell-to-cell heterogeneities in death decisions to cell cycle phases. Interestingly, we found that cells in S phase delay TRAIL receptor-induced death in favour for mitosis, thereby passing on an apoptosis-primed state to their offspring. This translates into two distinct fates, apoptosis execution post mitosis or cell survival from inefficient apoptosis. Transmitotic resistance is linked to Mcl-1 upregulation from mid S phase onwards, which allows cells to pass through mitosis with activated caspase-8, and with cells escaping apoptosis after mitosis sustaining sublethal DNA damage. Antagonizing Mcl-1 by BH3-mimetics suppresses cell cycle-dependent delays in apoptosis, prevents apoptosis-resistant progression through mitosis and averts unwanted survival from apoptosis induction. Cell cycle progression therefore modulates signal transduction during extrinsic apoptosis, with Mcl-1 governing decision making between death, proliferation and survival from inefficient apoptosis induction. Cell cycle progression thus is a crucial process from which cell-to-cell heterogeneities in fates and treatment outcomes emerge in isogenic cell populations during extrinsic apoptosis signalling.
Calbindin regulates Kv4.1 trafficking and excitability of dentate granule cells via CaMKII-dependent phosphorylation
Authors: Kim Kyung-Ran , Jeong Hyeon-Ju , Kim Yoonsub , Lee Seung Yeon , Kim Yujin , Kim Hyun-Ji , Lee Suk-Ho , Cho Hana , Kang Jong-Sun , Ho Won-Kyung
Published: February 2021

Calbindin, a major Ca2+buffer in dentate granule cells (GCs), plays a critical role in shaping Ca2+signals, yet how it regulates neuronal functions remains largely unknown. Here, we found that calbindin knock-out mice (CBKO) exhibited hyperexcitability in dentate GCs and impaired pattern separation, which was concurrent with reduced K+current due to downregulated surface expression of Kv4.1. Consistently, manipulation of the calbindin expression in HT22 led to changes in CaMKII activation and the level of surface localization of Kv4.1 through phosphorylation at serine 555, confirming the mechanism underlying neuronal hyperexcitability in CBKO. We also discovered that Ca2+buffering capacity was significantly reduced in the GCs of Tg2576 to the level of CBKO GCs, and this reduction was restored to normal levels by antioxidants, suggesting that calbindin is a target of oxidative stress. Our data suggest that regulation of CaMKII signaling by Ca2+buffer is crucial for neuronal excitability regulation.
Aging impairs the essential contributions of non-glial progenitors to neurorepair in the dorsal telencephalon of the KillifishN. furzeri
Authors: Van houcke Jolien , Mariën Valerie , Zandecki Caroline , Vanhunsel Sophie , Moons Lieve , Ayana Rajagopal , Seuntjens Eve , Arckens Lutgarde
Published: February 2021

The aging central nervous system (CNS) of mammals displays progressive limited regenerative abilities. Recovery after loss of neurons is extremely restricted in the aged brain. Many research models fall short in recapitulating mammalian aging hallmarks or have an impractically long lifespan. We established a traumatic brain injury model in the African turquoise killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri), a regeneration-competent vertebrate model that evolved to naturally age extremely fast. Stab-wound injury of the aged killifish dorsal telencephalon unveils an impaired and incomplete regeneration response when compared to young individuals. Remarkably, killifish brain regeneration is mainly supported by atypical non-glial progenitors, yet their proliferation capacity appears declined with age. We identified a high inflammatory response and glial scarring to also underlie the hampered generation of new neurons in aged fish. These primary results will pave the way for further research to unravel the factor age in relation to neurorepair, and to improve therapeutic strategies to restore the injured and/or diseased aged mammalian CNS.

Highlights

Aging impairs neurorepair in the killifish pallium at multiple stages of the regeneration process

Atypical non-glial progenitors support the production of new neurons in the naive and injured dorsal pallium

The impaired regeneration capacity of aged killifish is characterized by a reduced reactive proliferation of these progenitors followed by a decreased generation of newborn neurons that in addition, fail to reach the injury site

Excessive inflammation and glial scarring surface as potential brakes on brain repair in the aged killifish pallium
Organotypic endothelial adhesion molecules are key forTrypanosoma bruceitropism and virulence
Authors: De Niz Mariana , Bras Daniela , Pedro Mafalda , Nascimento Ana Margarida , Franco Claudio A. , Figueiredo Luisa M.
Published: February 2021

Trypanosoma bruceiis responsible for lethal diseases in humans and cattle in Sub-Saharan Africa. These extracellular parasites extravasate from the blood circulation into several tissues. The importance of the vasculature in tissue tropism is poorly understood. Using intravital imaging and bioluminescence, we found that gonadal white adipose tissue and pancreas are the two main parasite reservoirs. We show that reservoir establishment happens before vascular permeability is compromised, suggesting that extravasation is an active mechanism. Blocking endothelial surface adhesion molecules (E-selectin, P-selectins, or ICAM2) significantly reduced extravascular parasite load in all organs and delayed host lethality. Remarkably, blocking CD36 had a specific effect on adipose tissue tropism that was sufficient to delay lethality, suggesting that establishment of the adipose tissue reservoir is necessary for parasite virulence. This works demonstrates the importance of the vasculature in aT. bruceiinfection and identifies organ-specific adhesion molecules as key players for tissue tropism.
Ocean-wide comparisons of mesopelagic planktonic community structures
Authors: Rigonato Janaina , Budinich Marko , Murillo Alejandro A. , Brandão Manoela C. , Pierella Karlusich Juan J. , Soviadan Yawouvi Dodji , Gregory Ann C. , Endo Hisashi , Kokoszka Florian , Vik Dean , Henry Nicolas , Frémont Paul , Labadie Karine , Zayed Ahmed A. , Dimier Céline , Picheral Marc , Searson Sarah , Poulain Julie , Kandels Stefanie , Pesant Stéphane , Karsenti Eric ,   The Tara Oceans coordinators, Bork Peer , Bowler Chris , de Vargas Colomban , Eveillard Damien , Gehlen Marion , Iudicone Daniele , Lombard Fabien , Ogata Hiroyuki , Stemmann Lars , Sullivan Matthew B. , Sunagawa Shinichi , Wincker Patrick , Chaffron Samuel , Jaillon Olivier
Published: February 2021

For decades, marine plankton have been investigated for their capacity to modulate biogeochemical cycles and provide fishery resources. Between the sunlit (epipelagic) layer and the deep dark waters, lies a vast and heterogeneous part of the ocean: the mesopelagic zone. How plankton composition is shaped by environment has been well-explored in the epipelagic but much less in the mesopelagic ocean. Here, we conducted comparative analyses of trans-kingdom community assemblages thriving in the mesopelagic oxygen minimum zone (OMZ), mesopelagic oxic, and their epipelagic counterparts. We identified nine distinct types of intermediate water masses that correlate with variation in mesopelagic community composition. Furthermore, oxygen, NO-and particle flux together appeared as the main drivers governing these communities. Novel taxonomic signatures emerged from OMZ while a global co-occurrence network analysis showed that about 70% of the abundance of mesopelagic plankton groups is organized into three community modules. One module gathers prokaryotes, pico-eukaryotes and Nucleo-Cytoplasmic Large DNA Viruses (NCLDV) from oxic regions, and the two other modules are enriched in OMZ prokaryotes and OMZ pico-eukaryotes, respectively. We hypothesize that OMZ conditions led to a diversification of ecological niches, and thus communities, due to selective pressure from limited resources. Our study further clarifies the interplay between environmental factors in the mesopelagic oxic and OMZ, and the compositional features of communities.
3D Neuronal Mitochondrial Morphology in Axons, Dendrites, and Somata of the Aging Mouse Hippocampus
Authors: Faitg Julie , Lacefield Clay , Davey Tracey , White Kathryn , Laws Ross , Kosmidis Stylianos , Reeve Amy K , Kandel Eric R , Vincent Amy E , Picard Martin
Published: February 2021

The brain’s ability to process complex informations relies on the constant supply of energy through aerobic respiration by mitochondria. Neurons contain three anatomically distinct compartments – the soma, dendrites, and projecting axons – which have different energetic and biochemical requirements, as well as different mitochondrial morphologies in cultured systems. Here we apply a quantitative three-dimensional electron microscopy approach to map mitochondrial network morphology and complexity in the mouse brain. We examine three neuronal sub-compartments – the soma, dendrites, myelinated axons – in the dentate gyrus and CA1 of the mouse hippocampus, two subregions with distinct principal cell types and functions. We also establish compartment-specific differences in mitochondrial morphology across these cell types between young and old mice, highlighting differences in age-related morphological recalibrations. Overall, these data define the nature of the neuronal mitochondrial network in the mouse hippocampus, providing a foundation to examine the role of mitochondrial morpho-function in the aging brain.
Dengue Virus Alters Sialic Acid Residues Configuration in Macrophages
Authors: Serrato-Salas Javier , Cruz-Zazueta Isabel , Montiel-Hernández José Luis , González-Christen Judith
Published: February 2021

The activation of the innate immune response requires sialic acid residues removal. Nevertheless, it is unknown the role for these changes during the Dengue virus infection. We determine if during Dengue virus infection, the sialic acid residues alter on the macrophages. The human monocytic cell line THP-1 was differentiated into macrophages and were infected with Dengue virus. The changes in sialic acid were evaluated by lectin blot in the cellular lysate. The activity of neuraminidase was defined by RT-PCR and fluorescence assays. Macrophages infection with DENV-2 reduces α-2,6 sialic acid residues at 24 h, and α-2,3 sialic acid residues lower at 48 h in some proteins. Transcriptional profile and enzymatic activities of Neu-1 showed a narrow decrease. Sialic acid residues oscillation in varied conformations and times suggest it a role of a selective mechanism to remove these residues. The lesser participation of Neu-1 in this process could be concomitant to other similar enzymes such as sialyl-transferases, or the phenomenon requires minimal activity to have a relevant biological function.
Segmentation of the Urothelium in Optical Coherence Tomography Images with Dynamic Contrast
Authors: Xu Zhuo , Zhu Hui , Wang Hui
Published: February 2021

Significance

Speckle variations induced by intracellular motion (IM) in the urothelium was observed in optical coherence tomography (OCT) images. It is feasible to use the IM as a dynamic contrast to segment the urothelium with only two sequential OCT images. This new method opens the possibility of tracking the distribution of the urothelial cells to identify the microinvasion of bladder tumors.

Approach

With fresh porcine bladder tissue, IM was analyzed by tracking speckle variations using autocorrelation function, then quantified with CONTINE algorism to identify the decorrelation time (DT) of the speckle variations. Variance analysis is conducted to show IM amplitude and distribution in the urothelium. The segmentation of the urothelium is demonstrated using tissue samples with and without significantly stretching.

Results

Significant speckle variations induced by IM exists in the urothelium. However, the distribution of the IM is heterogeneous. The DTs are majorly distributed between 1ms to 30ms. Using the IM as a dynamic contrast, the urothelium can be accurately and exclusively segmented, even the layer structure of the bladder is invisible.

Conclusions

With fresh porcine bladders, we show that IM can be used as a dynamic contrast to exclusively segment the urothelium. This contrast may provide a new mechanism for OCT to diagnosis the invasion of urothelial cancerous cells for the better staging of bladder cancer.
Acyloxyacyl Hydrolase Regulates Microglia-Mediated Pelvic Pain Through Toll-Like Receptor-4
Authors: Rahman-Enyart Afrida , Yaggie Ryan E. , Yang Wenbin , Bollinger Justin L. , Winter Deborah R. , Schaeffer Anthony J. , Klumpp David J.
Published: February 2021

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a devastating condition of chronic pelvic pain and urinary dysfunction. We have shown that mice deficient for the lipase acyloxyacyl hydrolase (AOAH) develop pelvic allodynia and exhibit symptoms and comorbidities consistent with IC/BPS, as well as gut dysbiosis. Microglia are resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS) that respond to changes in the gut microbiome, and studies have linked microglial activation to neuropathic pain. Additionally, microglia express toll-like receptors (TLRs), including TLR4, which are activated by microbial components. We have previously shown that AOAH-deficient mice exhibit increased gut permeability, suggesting a possible mechanism of microglial TLR4 activation via translocation of microbial products across the intestinal barrier to the brain. Here, we assessed the role of AOAH and TLR4 in microglial activation and pelvic pain. AOAH immunoreactivity co-localized with the microglial marker P2YR12 but not astrocytes, suggesting a functional role for AOAH in microglia. Pharmacologic ablation of CNS microglia with PLX5622 resulted in decreased pelvic allodynia in AOAH-deficient mice and resurgence of pelvic pain upon drug washout. Aligned with microglial activation, we observed altered cytokine abundance inAoah−/− cortex that was reduced inAoah/Tlr4−/− cortex. Consistent with our hypothesis of TLR4 activation by gut microbes, we observed microbiome-dependent activation of cultured BV2 microglial cells. Skeletal analyses revealed that AOAH-deficient mice have an activated microglia morphology in brain regions associated with neuropathic pain, independent of TLR4. Compared toAoah−/− mice,Aoah/Tlr4−/− mice exhibited decreased pelvic pain and microglial cytokine expression. Together, these findings demonstrate differential roles for AOAH and TLR4 in microglial activation and pelvic pain and thus identify novel therapeutic targets for IC/BPS.
The Aurora B gradient sustains kinetochore stability in anaphase
Authors: Papini Diana , Levasseur Mark , Higgins Jonathan M.G.
Published: February 2021

Kinetochores assemble on chromosomes in mitosis to allow microtubules to attach and bring about accurate chromosome segregation. The kinases Cyclin B-Cdk1 and Aurora B are crucial for the formation of stable kinetochores. However, the activity of these two kinases appears to decline dramatically at centromeres during anaphase onset, precisely when microtubule attachments are required to move chromosomes towards opposite poles of the dividing cell. We find that, although Aurora B leaves centromeres at anaphase, a gradient of Aurora B activity centred on the central spindle is still able to phosphorylate kinetochore substrates such as Dsn1 to modulate kinetochore stability in anaphase and to regulate kinetochore disassembly as cells enter telophase. We provide a model to explain how Aurora B co-operates with Cyclin B-Cdk1 to maintain kinetochore function in anaphase.
Use of botanical gardens as arks for conserving pollinators and plant-pollinator interactions: A case study from the US Northern Great Plains
Authors: Vilella-Arnizaut Isabela B. , Fenster Charles B.
Published: February 2021

Botanical gardens have contributed to plant conservation through the maintenance of both living and preserved plant specimens for decades. However, there is still a large gap in the literature with regards to understanding the potential conservation value botanical gardens could provide for local pollinators. We investigated how plant-pollinator community structure and diversity may differ between botanical gardens and native habitats by sampling and comparing between two environments: a restored native grassland patch within a local botanical garden and fifteen native, remnant temperate grassland sites in the Northern Great Plains. We found pollinator diversity within the restored native grassland patch was greater than 55% of total remnant temperate grassland transects throughout the entire flowering season, while plant diversity and network community metrics between the two environments remained similar throughout, except that remnant prairies have more links (higher connectance) with pollinators than the garden patch. Overall, our findings demonstrate the promising role restored native grassland patches in botanical gardens could play as reservoirs for local pollinator communities by supporting plant-pollinator interactions comparable to those found in native habitat remnants in the same region.
Protection from lethalClostridioides difficileinfection via intraspecies competition for co-germinant
Authors: Leslie Jhansi L. , Jenior Matthew L. , Vendrov Kimberly C. , Standke Alexandra K. , Barron Madeline R. , O’Brien Tricia J. , Unverdorben Lavinia , Thaprawat Pariyamon , Bergin Ingrid L. , Schloss Patrick D. , Young Vincent B.
Published: February 2021

Clostridioides difficile,a Gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium, is the primary cause of infectious nosocomial diarrhea. Antibiotics are a major risk factor forC. difficileinfection (CDI) as they disrupt the gut microbial community, enabling increased germination of spores and growth of vegetativeC. difficile. To date the only single-species bacterial preparation that has demonstrated efficacy in reducing recurrent CDI in humans is non-toxigenicC. difficile.Using multiple infection models we determined that pre-colonization with a less virulent strain is sufficient to protect from challenge with a lethal strain ofC. difficile,surprisingly even in the absence of adaptive immunity. Additionally, we showed that protection is dependent on high levels of colonization by the less virulent strain and that it is mediated by exclusion of the invading strain. Our results suggest that reduction of amino acids, specifically glycine following colonization by the first strain ofC. difficileis sufficient to decrease germination of the second strain thereby limiting colonization by the lethal strain.

Importance

Antibiotic-associated colitis is often caused by infection with the bacteriumClostridioides difficile.In this study we found that reduction of the amino acid glycine by pre-colonization with a less virulent strain ofC. difficileis sufficient to decrease germination of a second strain. This finding demonstrates that the axis of competition for nutrients can include multiple life stages. This work is important, as it is the first to identify a possible mechanism through which pre-colonization withC. difficile, a current clinical therapy, provides protection from reinfection. Furthermore, our work suggests that targeting nutrients utilized by all life stages could be an improved strategy for bacterial therapeutics that aim to restore colonization resistance in the gut.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on autistic adults – a survey
Authors: Davidson Conor James , Lodge Keri , Kam Alwyn
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To date there has been limited research on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on autistic people. This study aims to present the results of a survey of autistic people (n = 51) conducted by a UK specialist autism team.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional online survey.

Findings

A total of 72% respondents reported either some or significant deterioration in mental health during the pandemic. The issues that caused most negative impact were uncertainty over what will happen next and disruption of normal routine. Respondents reported a variety of coping strategies to help them through the pandemic.

Originality/value

To date there has been little research looking specifically at the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on autistic people. This paper adds weight to the evidence that the pandemic has had a particularly severe impact on autistic adults and includes useful information on potential coping strategies for this population.
Social capital in the theory and research of LIS professionals in the light of the literature on the subject. Review of current knowledge
Authors: Wojciechowska Maja Dorota
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to present the latest scholarly trends in the field of social capital in libraries, to review research concepts published by LIS professionals and to suggest further research possibilities in this area.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a review and critical analysis of literature associated with research on social capital in libraries to highlight its importance for the development of LIS and its impact on the functioning of environments linked with various types of libraries. The goal of literature analysis was to determine the current condition of research on social capital in libraries. The main trends were identified and the need for further qualitative analyses, which are missing at the moment, was confirmed.

Findings

It was determined that, so far, LIS professionals have focussed mainly on the role of municipal libraries in developing social capital, the problem of building trust, especially in immigrant circles and the impact of libraries on promoting a civil society. Academic libraries, rural libraries, organisational capital in libraries and individual social capital of librarians were a much less frequent subject of research. The role of libraries in developing social capital in educational (primary and secondary education) and professional (non-university professionals) circles is practically non-existent in research, and it will require in-depth studies and analyses in the coming years.

Originality/value

This paper constitutes a synthetic review of the latest research concepts concerning social capital in libraries. It identifies the most important research trends and areas that so far have not been explored and suggests research methods to help LIS professionals design future research in this area more effectively.
Challenges and action plans in construction sector owing to COVID-19 pandemic – a case in Indonesia real estates
Authors: Oey Elia , Lim Jason
Published: February 2021

Purpose

All industry has been facing tremendous pressure since the beginning of 2020 owing to COVID-19 crisis, including real estate construction. The research is a case study investigating challenges and action plans faced by stakeholders (developers/consultants/contractors) in real estate construction in some major cities in Indonesia. This study aims to identify and prioritize on action plans related to real estate construction stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

The study gathered challenges and action plans by distributing open questionnaire to expert to get insights in their own verbatim. Data reduction was then performed to get high-level challenges and high-level action plans. High-level action plans were then analyzed using proposed Eisenhower-simultaneous importance performance analysis (SIPA) matrix which help prioritize high-level action plans. Correlation matrix was also constructed to gain insight on relation between action plans to challenges and to three main LEAN elements (Muda, Mura and Muri). Alternative ranking method using “sum-product to 3M” approach was also performed to give complementary insights.

Findings

Ten action plans fall under category “Act now and become COVID-19 champion company.” One falls under category “prepare and invest now to gain competitive advantage,” one falls under category “external collaboration now to survive,” one falls under category “external collaboration for potential efficiency,” whereas the remaining six action plans fall under category “let-it-go” or “do-nothing.”

Research limitations/implications

The study gathered only 48 and 64 respondents in its first and second questionnaires. Despite small number, the respondents are experts in their own field, and their valuable insights and responses off-set the limited number of participants. The study gives insightful action plans that can be taken by stakeholders in real-estate construction in Indonesia’s major cities analyzed by proposed Eisenhower-SIPA matrix.

Originality/value

The novelty of the research lies in the insights from industry experts in dealing with current COVID-19 pandemic in real-estate construction in Indonesia. Added value is also given through the use of Eisenhower-SIPA matrix.
Hypertension, diabetes and poverty among Latinx immigrants in New York City: implications for COVID-19
Authors: Arasteh Kamyar
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has affected Latinx immigrant neighborhoods in New York City (NYC) disproportionately. Poverty, hypertension and diabetes have been associated with adverse COIVD-19 outcomes. This study aims to assess the prevalence of these COVID-19 vulnerabilities among Latinx immigrants in NYC.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were obtained from the 2018 New York City Community Health Survey. The relation between Latinx immigrant status and study outcomes was assessed in univariate and multivariable regression models.

Findings

Latinx immigrants were 1.3 times (95% confidence interval: 1.2–1.5) more likely to have hypertension and 2.5 times (95% confidence interval: 1.9–3.2) to have diabetes, compared to the US-born Whites after adjusting for age. They were 46.5 times (95% confidence interval: 24.3–88.8) more likely to live in a neighborhood with high poverty, eight times more likely (95% confidence interval: 5.5–11.6) not to have had enough food in the previous six months and 1.4 times more likely (95% confidence interval: 1.2–1.6) to lack health insurance coverage, compared to the US-born Whites.

Practical implications

These findings highlight the greater vulnerabilities of Latinx immigrants in NYC to COVID-19 in the year prior to the pandemic. Poverty, food insecurity, hostile immigration policies and lack of access to health care exacerbate health disparities among Latinx immigrants in NYC.

Originality/value

This study provides a public health perspective for understanding the association of health disparities and socioeconomic conditions of Latinx immigrants in NYC.
Californian innovation ecosystem: emergence of agtechs and the new wave of agriculture
Authors: Mikhailov Andrei , Oliveira Carlos , Padula Antonio Domingos , Reichert Fernanda Maciel
Published: February 2021

Purpose

In a context where the process of creation of technology and innovation for agriculture is being disrupted at a fast pace, the authors proposed to study one of the most prominent agtech innovation ecosystems. Therefore, this paper aims to identify key characteristics that make California’s agtech innovation ecosystem remarkable.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is an exploratory and descriptive research carried out in a twofold. First, data were collected through documental research focusing on actors such as universities, R&D centers and programs, business accelerators and venture capital platforms, agtechs, as well as multinational companies. Second, structured interviews were carried out to complement the secondary data collected and to obtain experts’ perception on the relationships between actors of the ecosystem and on the characteristics that make this ecosystem remarkable.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insights about the relevance of California's agtech innovation ecosystem to creation of radical innovations in agriculture. It has a differentiated environment, where educational and research institutions play a key role in developing new knowledge. It also shows how important funding is to allow new business to succeed. Additionally, it shows that actors interact in a complex network, with multiple roles. All these key characteristics allow this agtech innovation ecosystem to be so remarkable.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the chosen research approach, the research results may lack generalizability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to survey a larger number of actors of this and other agtech innovation ecosystems to test the identified key characteristics further.

Practical implications

The paper includes indication of characteristics necessary to develop a prominent agtech innovation ecosystem, which may contribute to decision makers to develop policies aiming to promote this type of ecosystem.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified need to open the “black-box” of agtech innovation ecosystems, which may then allow radical innovations within the sector to be developed and taken to the market.
Achieving SDG target 8.1 (sustain economic growth) in developing countries: how aid for trade policy and regulations can assist?
Authors: Roy Chandan Kumar , Xiaoling Huang , Banik Banna
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine how aid for trade policy and regulations (AfTPR) contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target 8.1 (sustain per capita economic growth) and whether the effectiveness of AfTPR is conditional to the stable political environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a widely accepted endogenous growth framework and applies panel data fixed effects and two-step difference and system generalized method of moments estimation strategies on panel data of 50 developing countries over 2005–2017.

Findings

The findings of the study confirm that aid to trade policy promotes sustainable economic growth in developing countries, but this category of development assistance is only effective and significant for low and lower middle-income (LLMI) economies. The positive and significant effect of AfTPR in upper middle-income countries is conditional to their level of political stability. Under a stable political situation, the positive effect of AfTPR on sustainable growth remains almost same for the LLMI countries, whereas for the upper middle-income countries this growth effect reached almost double.

Research limitations/implications

International trade is considered as a driver for inclusive and sustainable economic growth, whereas aid for trade is acknowledged for its prospective contribution toward achieving these goals. The findings have dominant policy implications for the international development organizations and donors, which recommend that it is more desirable to transmit aid toward developing and implementing trade policy and regulations as per capita economic growth improves in the aid recipient countries.

Originality/value

According to the authors’ knowledge, no prior study empirically analyzes the effect of AfTPRs on SDG target 8.1.
Strategic planning to investigate the decision index of organization for effective total quality management implementation – in context of Indian small and medium enterprises
Authors: Toke Lalit K. , Kalpande Shyamkumar D.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to present an empirical assessment and strategic planning for measuring the impact of total quality management (TQM) practices on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and its effectiveness for business excellence. The authors investigate the present status of quality system in SMEs and find the thrust areas for TQM implementation in SMEs of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis. Also, it examines the effect of external environment on internal factors of SMEs by situation analysis. This study helps to develop a model for assessing the components of TQM in SMEs after identifying their weightage.

Design/methodology/approach

The qualitative and quantitative techniques have been used together for robust conclusions. The survey data has been collected through the properly designed questionnaire. After studying the present status of TQM in SMEs, situation analysis has been carried out for examining the effect of the external environment on internal factors of SMEs. The weightage of TQM critical success factors was calculated by pair-wise comparison method of analytical hierarchical process (AHP) analysis for framework development.

Findings

The study offers useful insights and guidelines for identification of the contribution of TQM critical factors in SMEs performance. It has been observed that the attribute understanding of customer need and its fulfillment ability has the highest priority, whereas supplier partnership and the ability to reduce waste having the least priority in SMEs. Validation study facilitates to channelize TQM initiatives, to improve environmental and operational performance.

Originality/value

The authors provide a comprehensive typology of TQM practices, and its performances on SMEs. This paper can increase the awareness of the significance of TQM strategy which could help managers of SMEs to have a better understanding of the benefits of implementing TQM and therefore unable patient satisfaction with their organizations.