bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moral foundations, values, and judgments in extraordinary altruists
Authors: Amormino Paige , Ploe Montana L. , Marsh Abigail A.
Published: December 2022

Donating a kidney to a stranger is a rare act of extraordinary altruism that appears to reflect a moral commitment to helping others. Yet little is known about patterns of moral cognition associated with extraordinary altruism. In this preregistered study, we compared the moral foundations, values, and patterns of utilitarian moral judgments in altruistic kidney donors (n = 61) and demographically matched controls (n = 58). Altruists expressed more concern only about the moral foundation of harm, but no other moral foundations. Consistent with this, altruists endorsed utilitarian concerns related to impartial beneficence, but not instrumental harm. Contrary to our predictions, we did not find group differences between altruists and controls in basic values. Extraordinary altruism generally reflected opposite patterns of moral cognition as those seen in individuals with psychopathy, a personality construct characterized by callousness and insensitivity to harm and suffering. Results link real-world, costly, impartial altruism primarily to moral cognitions related to alleviating harm and suffering in others rather than to basic values, fairness concerns, or strict utilitarian decision-making.
Investigations for Development of Structures for Control of Fog Contaminations
Authors: Todorov Petar , Peshev Zahary , Pérez-Díaz José Luis , Ivanov Ognyan
Published: December 2022

Characterization of fogs is an important problem that does not have a good solution in real conditions. To investigate this problem, we chose the electromagnetic echo effect (EMEE) because it offers several advantages measurements are fast, accurate and can be contactless. Various concepts for the detection of impurities in the composition of fogs by implementing the EMEE were considered. An overview was made of the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed methods. An experimental setup was designed to conduct studies regarding the development of sensors for the control of fog contaminations. It has been experimentally proven that a change in the generated EMEE signal is observed when a change in the composition of the fog is present. The signal is also influenced by various conditions, e.g. solid interaction efficiency and laser beam intensity, modulation frequency, etc. Those parameters were optimized properly to achieve high sensitivity and accuracy. Research results indicate the possibility to use them for the detection of CBRN agents.
Diagnosis, treatment and recurrence of a mandibular Langerhans cell histiocytosis: a three-year follow-up case report
Authors: Morcel Marion , Keribin Pierre , Quenel Léonie , Bertin Hélios , Neel Antoine , Lesclous Philippe
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is an abnormal clonal proliferation of Langerhans cells secondary to immune process, mutation of oncogene or genetic predispositions. It preferentially affects bone, lung and skin. The incidence is 2–6 cases per million per year. Prognosis is variable and depends on number and location of lesions, and impact of the initial treatment. Oral lesions may be the first sign of LCH as illustrated by the present case. Observation: A 24-year-old male consulted first for severe gingival inflammation, teeth mobilities and alveolar bone loss with a suspicion of LCH. A pulmonary involvement was secondarily revealed by tomodensitometry. Histological examination, from gingival biopsy, confirmed the diagnostic of LCH, showing cells positive for the anti-CD1A antibody. The patient was managed by oral surgery and chemotherapy approaches. Alveolar bone loss significantly reduced. But 2 years and a half after the diagnosis, a recurrence was noted and managed by surgical approach. After a three-year follow-up, no recurrence was noted. Conclusion: Oral lesions can be inaugural manifestations of LCH. The dentist has an essential role in the early detection of these lesions.
Acute periapical abscesses in patients with herpes simplex type 1 and herpes zoster
Authors: Rotstein Ilan , Katz Joseph
Published: December 2022

Aim: To assess the prevalence of acute periapical abscesses (PAs) in patients infected with herpes simplex type 1 (HS-1) and herpes zoster (HZ). Materials and methods: Integrated data of hospital patients was used. History of HS-1 and HZ diagnosis was retrieved by searching the appropriate query in the database. All cases were diagnosed for acute PAs by calibrated dentists in a hospital setting for patients admitted to urgent care. Diagnosis was made based on clinical examination and imaging data confirming the diagnosis of acute PAs without sinus tract. The odds ratio (OR) for the prevalence of acute PAs and its association with history of HS-1 and HZ were then calculated. Results: The prevalence of acute PAs in patients with a history HS-1 was 2.43% as compared to 0.59% in the general patient population of the hospital. The OR was 4.12 and the difference in prevalence was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). The prevalence of acute PAs in patients with a history HZ was 2.78% as compared to 0.59% in the general patient population of the hospital. The OR was 4.71 and the difference in prevalence was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Under the conditions of this study, it appears that the prevalence of acute PAs is significantly higher in patients with a history of HS-1 and HZ infections and may warrant an antiviral therapy in certain resistant periapical abscesses.
Recurrent labial xanthoma infection in a patient with Neurofibromatosis-Noonan syndrome: case report and literature review
Authors: Dussueil Pauline , Sergent Jean-François , Veyssière Alexis , Benateau Hervé
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Noonan Syndrome is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous syndrome, characterized by marked phenotypic variability. All the clinical manifestations of this syndrome are still not fully known. Observation: We present the case of a 58-year-old woman with a diagnosis of Neurofibromatosis-Noonan syndrome with SOS2 mutation, observed by her general practitioner for a recurrent left upper lip abscess despite drainage and antibiotic therapy. The anatomo-pathological result of the sample was in favor of an infected xanthoma. Discussion: The most common oral manifestation of Noonan syndrome includes malocclusion, dental anomalies and radiologic jaw lesions. Xanthomas of the lip have never been reported in this syndrome. Conclusion: Oral xanthomas could be one of the many oral clinical manifestations of Noonan Syndrome. However, more research is needed to understand clinical consequences of mutations in identified genes.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Stenting for Aortic Coarctation
Authors: Contrafouris Constantinos , Antonopoulos Constantine N. , Rammos Spyridon , Kanakis Meletios , Petsios Konstantinos , Kakisis John D. , Geroulakos George
Published: December 2022

Background Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is a congenital cardiovascular malformation involving narrowing of the thoracic aorta just distal to the left subclavian artery. The aim of our study was to evaluate the hemodynamic effects of endovascular treatment for CoA by using invasive aortic catheterization.

Methods All patients with CoA who underwent treatment by aortic stent implantation between September 1, 2003, and February 1, 2019, at the “Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center,” in Athens, Greece, were evaluated. Patients were treated with either bare (uncovered) Cheatham-Platinum (bCP) or covered Cheatham-Platinum (cCP) stent implantations. Invasive aortic pressure measurements were recorded before and after the endovascular intervention.

Results A total of 48, eight zig CP stents, comprising 24 bCP and 24 cCP stents were implanted in 47 patients. The mean aortic diameter (mm) at the CoA lesion increased from 9.7 ± 3.3 to 19.2 ± 2.9 mm (p <0.01) after the endovascular procedure. The invasive mean blood pressure (BP; mm Hg) from catheterization in the descending aorta increased (before = 114.2 ± 12.8 vs. after = 135.5 ± 28.1; p <0.01), while the invasive mean BP (mm Hg) from catheterization in the ascending aorta was decreased (before = 156.8 ± 25.0 vs. after = 138.4 ± 27.5; p <0.01) after the intervention. The mean aortic BP gradient decreased in both types of stents after intervention (BP gradient among patients with cCP stents = 30.9 +/− 23.6 mmHg and BP gradient among patients with bCP stents = 38.0 +/−23.1 mmHg). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the two types of stents; p = 0.36.

Conclusions Invasive aortic catheterization provided evidence that endovascular stenting with either bare or covered stents is efficient in treating patients with CoA.
A Systematic Review of Acute Thoracic Aortic Dissections in Africa—The Need for a Registry
Authors: Yip Anthony , Libhaber Elena , Nam Penelope , Kleinloog Robert , Rampini Lorenzo , Hosking Catherine
Published: December 2022

In this systematic review, the available literature on the presentation and management of acute thoracic aortic dissections in Africa is examined. Though Africa has 17% of the world population, it accounts for approximately 1% of the available literature with much of our understanding coming from registries arising from the developed world, such as the International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection. The literature from the African continent consists mainly of case reports, small case series, and few original studies. Case reports make an important contribution to our understanding of uncommon conditions but can skew our understanding of aortic dissections in this region by describing unusual presentations and management. In this review, we describe the available studies retrieved from large medical databases (Medline and Health Management Information Consortium) and motivate the need for national registries to provide a more accurate appreciation of the scope of the problem on this continent.
Dolichoarteriopathy of Common Carotid Artery: An Unusual Entity
Authors: Georgakarakos Efstratios , Fiska Aliki
Published: December 2022

Dolichoarterial disease of the carotid arteries refers to elongated arteries with tortuous, coiling, and kinking anatomy. This morphology is usually met in the elderly and not associated with atherosclerotic risk factors. Current practice reserves surgical correction only in symptomatic patients. Significant tortuosity index may be associated with stroke and poses extra difficulties to the endovascular passage of guidewires and catheters for the treatment of extra- and intracranial vascular lesions. This article presents a typical case of bilateral dolichoarteriopathy of the common carotid artery and stresses the need for further categorization of the particular morphology based on modern angiography techniques and three-dimensional reconstruction software.
Long-Term PAE Results: What Do We Know
Authors: Bilhim Tiago
Published: December 2022

Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive technique with proven safety and efficacy to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). In this review, we discuss the required level of evidence to implement and adopt treatment options for patients with LUTS due to BPO/BPH. Focus is given on the long-term (>3 years) data after PAE with reported outcomes including cohort sizes, follow-up times, reintervention rates (repeat PAE and prostatectomy), need for LUTS/BPO medical therapy, and improvements in International Prostate Symptom Score/quality of life score, peak flow rate (Qmax), postvoid residual, prostate volume, and prostate-specific antigen. The durability of treatment effects after PAE and need for prostatic reinterventions need to be taken into consideration when discussing treatment options with patients and referring colleagues from other medical specialties. Developments in medical devices used for PAE have allowed for a continuous drop in unilateral PAE rates over the last 12 years and will probably play a role in optimizing technical and thus clinical outcomes for patients with LUTS due to BPH/BPO.
Morphological events at the time of oocyte maturation and sperm–egg interactions during fertilisation in a dasyurid marsupial
Authors: Breed Bill , Leigh Chris , Ahmer Ingrid
Published: December 2022

In marsupials there have been several studies on oocyte maturation and sperm–egg interactions at the time of fertilisation, but controversy exists as to when and how some of the processes occur. Here we present a summary of relevant data from a species of dasyurid marsupial, the fat-tailed dunnart (Sminthopsis crassicaudata). The findings show that in oocytes of developing ovarian follicles cortical granules are produced with many of the granules sometimes initially congregating around the cytoplasmic vacuoles before migrating to the proximity of the oocyte cell membrane. During fertilisation the spermatozoon binds to the zona pellucida that surrounds the oocyte with its tail lying parallel to the long axis of the head. As the spermatozoon passes through the zona pellucida it is surrounded by the zona matrix and, when entering the egg cytoplasm, a localised area of elevated ooplasm occurs around the spermatozoon. Also, unlike a recent claim to the contrary, the head of the spermatozoon travels a considerable distance into the egg cytoplasm before chromatin decondensation occurs, an event that probably minimises the chances of chromatin disruption by the sperm tail at the time of its incorporation.
Novel layout design of 4H-SiC merged PiN Schottky diodes leading to improved surge robustness
Authors: Chen 陈 Jia-Hao 嘉豪 , Wang 王 Ying 颖 , Fei 费 Xin-Xing 新星 , Bao 包 Meng-Tian 梦恬 , Cao 曹 Fei 菲
Published: December 2022

A method to improve the surge current capability of silicon carbide (SiC) merged PiN Schottky (MPS) diodes is presented and investigated via three-dimensional electro-thermal simulations. When compared with a conventional MPS diode, the proposed structure has a more uniform current distribution during bipolar conduction due to the help of the continuous P+ surface, which can avoid the formation of local hotspots during the surge process. The Silvaco simulation results show that the proposed structure has a 20.29% higher surge capability and a 15.06% higher surge energy compared with a conventional MPS diode. The bipolar on-state voltage of the proposed structure is 4.69 V, which is 56.29% lower than that of a conventional MPS diode, enabling the device to enter the bipolar mode earlier during the surge process. Furthermore, the proposed structure can suppress the occurrence of ‘snapback’ phenomena when switching from the unipolar to the bipolar operation mode. In addition, an analysis of the surge process of MPS diodes is carried out in detail.
Numerical simulation and experimental verification of plasma jet development in gas gap switch
Authors: DONG Bingbing , GUO Zhiyuan , ZHANG Zelin , WEN Tao , XIANG Nianwen
Published: December 2022

Plasma jet triggered gas gap switch has obvious advantages in fast control switch. The development of the plasma in the ambient medium is the key factor affecting the triggering conduction of the gas switch. However, the plasma jet process and its characteristic parameters are complicated and the existing test methods cannot fully characterize its development laws. In this work, a two-dimensional transient fluid calculation model of the plasma jet process of the gas gap switch is established based on the renormalization-group k-ε turbulence equation. The results show that the characteristic parameters and morphological evolution of the plasma jet are basically consistent with the experimental results, which verifies the accuracy of the simulation model calculation. The plasma jet is a long strip with an initial velocity of 1.0 km·s−1 and develops in both axial and radial directions. The jet velocity fluctuates significantly with axial height. As the plasma jet enters the main gap, the pressure inside the trigger cavity drops by 80%, resulting in a rapid drop in the jet velocity. When the plasma jet head interacts with the atmosphere, the two-phase fluid compresses each other, generating a forward-propelled pressure wave. The plasma jet heads flow at high velocity, a negative pressure zone is formed in the middle part of the jet, and the pressure peak decreases gradually with height. As the value of the inlet pressure increases, the characteristic parameters of the plasma jet increase. The entrainment phenomenon is evident, which leads to an increase in the pressure imbalance of the atmospheric gas medium, leading to a significant Coandǎ effect. Compared with air, the characteristic parameters of a plasma jet in SF6 are lower, and the morphological evolution is significantly suppressed. The results of this study can provide some insight into the mechanism of action of the switch jet plasma development process.
Association of Waist Circumference with the Risk of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: a Nationwide Cohort Study of 10 Million Individuals in Korea
Authors: Je Yeonjin , Han Kyungdo , Chun Jaeyoung , Kim Yuna , Kim Jie-Hyun , Hoon Youn Young , Park Hyojin , Pil Im Jong , Sung Kim Joo
Published: December 2022

Background and Aims

Metabolic syndrome may share the pathophysiology of adipose tissue dysregulation and inadequate immune response with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. We determined the association of abdominal obesity [AO] with the risk of developing IBD.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide population-based cohort study using the Korean National Health Insurance Services database. A total of 10 082 568 participants of the 2009 national health screening programme were enrolled. Newly diagnosed Crohn’s disease [CD] and ulcerative colitis [UC] were identified using the International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision and specialized national codes for rare intractable diseases. Waist circumference [WC] was classified into six groups and compared with the reference values of 85.0–89.9 cm for men and 80.0–84.9 cm for women. AO was defined as a WC of ≥90 cm for men and ≥85 cm for women.

Results

During a median follow-up of 9.3 years, the incidence rates of CD and UC were 2.11 and 8.40 per 100 000 person-years, respectively. After adjustment for age, sex, lifestyle behaviours, income and body mass index [BMI], the increase in baseline WC was significantly associated with the risk of developing CD, but not UC, compared to the references. The risk of developing CD in subjects with AO increased significantly compared to those without AO [adjusted hazard ratio, 1.40; 95% confidence interval, 1.21–1.61], regardless of obesity based on BMI.

Conclusions

Individuals with AO bore an increased risk of developing CD proportional to WC, but not UC, suggesting that visceral adiposity is related to the pathophysiology of CD.
OLDER ADULT PERSPECTIVES ON AGEISM DURING COVID-19: A QUALITATIVE STUDY
Authors: De Fries Carson , Ingle Pilar , Schilz Matthew , Steward Andrew , Baker Emma , Hasche Leslie
Published: December 2022

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, there has been a reported surge of ageism toward older adults. Research demonstrates that events perpetuating negative attitudes towards older adults can increase ageism and associated negative outcomes. The purpose of this phenomenological qualitative study was to explore how older adults navigated experiences of ageism and their social relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic. Semi-structured interviews with adults ages 60 and older were conducted between February and April of 2021 over Zoom. Data were coded using an iterative, inductive approach and thematic analysis was performed to draw themes from the data. A total of 24 participants ages 61-80 (mean = 70.6) were interviewed. Most participants identified as white (n = 19) female (n = 14), retired (n = 21) and had at least a bachelor’s degree (n = 22). Findings showed that participants experienced ongoing ageism but did not report ageist experiences associated specifically with COVID-19. Ageist experiences, unrelated to COVID-19, as shared by participants included assumptions about older adults’ (in)ability to use technology, ageism in professional settings, and feelings that ageism is an inevitable part of growing older. Future research should examine the impact of intersectionality on this topic within more diverse populations and explore potential differences that may have occurred throughout different stages of the pandemic.
AGING-RELATED ADIPOSE REMODELING AND DYSFUNCTION
Authors: Wang Qiong (Annabel)
Published: December 2022

Aging is associated with insulin resistance, cardiovascular dysfunction, and many other chronic metabolic disorders, significantly shortening healthspan and lifespan. Fat (adipose) tissue, as the major site for energy storage, maintains whole-body energy homeostasis and insulin sensitivity. Adipose tissue has extraordinary plasticity, and it was not until recently that fat tissue remodeling during aging is considered to play an essential role in aging-associated metabolic disorders. Benefiting from recent technology advances, especially the single-cell technology and comprehensive genetic mouse models, we are beginning to unmask how adipose tissue remodels during aging cellularly and molecularly. This symposium features internationally-renowned aging research scientists whose work focuses on how aging remodels adipose tissues and how adipose tissue is vital for healthy aging and longevity. We will hear from Philipp Scherer from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, who will present his research on the impact of adipocyte-derived factors on Healthspan and Lifespan; Hei Sook SUL from the University of California Berkeley will discuss “Aging dependent changes in adipose precursors”; Annabel Wang from the City of Hope will introduce her recent discovery of a new type of adipocyte progenitor cell that promotes aging-related visceral adiposity; and lastly, Gina Wade from the University of Wisconsin-Madison who will talk about “Regulation of aging energy expenditure by plasma lipid signaling”. Attendees will learn about the latest breakthroughs in adipose tissue aging, and the role of adipose tissue in maintaining and restoring metabolic health in aged individuals.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES TO PAIN ASSESSMENT AND FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE PAIN IN PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Kuzmik Ashley
Published: December 2022

The purpose of this study was to describe the optimal way to measure pain among older hospitalized patients with dementia and evaluate the factors that influence pain. The PAINAD is described as a reliable and valid observation measure of pain in this population based on Rasch analysis and was invariant to gender or racial biases. Using this measure and a protocol for observation of pain, pain and associated factors were obtained on the first 112 participants from 6 hospitals in the FFC-AC-EIT study. For descriptive purposes and to guide interventions, factors that were associated with pain were tested. The following factors explained 61% of the variance: functional focused care activities performed, delirium, and quality of care interactions. Those that performed more functional activities, had less delirium, and had higher (more positive) quality of care interactions were less likely to have pain. The findings also supported the use of the PAINAD.
CAN SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT OFFSET THE GENETIC RISK OF MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION AMONG OLDER ADULTS?
Authors: Wu Chenkai , Sheng Chen
Published: December 2022

The interrelatedness between social determinants of health impedes researchers to identify important social factors for cardiovascular health. Additionally, it remains largely unknown whether a derivable social environment could offset the genetic risk for cardiovascular events. We developed a polysocial score approach to quantify the aggregate effect of social factors on myocardial infarction (MI). We also examined the association of polysocial score and polygenic risk scores (PGS), and their interaction, on MI. Data are from the Health and Retirement Study, a longitudinal cohort of a nationally representative sample of Black and White Americans with pre-calculated PGS for MI (N=6,036). We included 24 social factors from five categories (economic stability, neighborhood environment, education, community, and social context, and healthcare system) and used forward stepwise regression to screen for important ones. Polysocial score was created using 14 social factors and was classified as low (< 28), intermediate (29-39), and high (40+). The incidence of MI was 4.5, 8.5, 10.5 per 1000 person-years among Whites with a low, intermediate, and high PGS, respectively; no graded association was found among Blacks. Polysocial score stratified the rate of MI in each tertile of PGS among Whites. We found a significant additive interaction between PGS and polysocial score. The difference in MI rate was 10.3 per 1000 person-years among individuals with a high genetic risk, while the difference significantly reduced to 3.5 per 1000 person-years among those with a low genetic risk. Desirable social environment could possibly offset the increased risk of MI associated with genetics among Whites.
Uncovering hidden genetic diversity: allelic resolution of insect and spider silk genes
Authors: Frandsen Paul B. , Hotaling Scott , Powell Ashlyn , Heckenhauer Jacqueline , Kawahara Akito Y. , Baker Richard H. , Hayashi Cheryl Y. , Ríos-Touma Blanca , Holzenthal Ralph , Pauls Steffen U. , Stewart Russell J.
Published: December 2022

Arthropod silk is vital to the evolutionary success of hundreds of thousands of species. The primary proteins in silks are often encoded by long, repetitive gene sequences. Until recently, sequencing and assembling these complex gene sequences has proven intractable given their repetitive structure. Here, using high-quality long-read sequencing, we show that there is extensive variation—both in terms of length and repeat motif order—between alleles of silk genes within individual arthropods. Further, this variation exists across two deep, independent origins of silk which diverged more than 500 million years ago—(1) the insect clade containing caddisflies and butterflies and (2) spiders. This remarkable convergence in previously overlooked patterns of allelic variation across multiple origins of silk suggests mechanisms for the generation and maintenance of structural protein-coding genes. Future genomic efforts to connect genotypes to phenotypes should account for such allelic variation.
Characterisation of key genotypic and phenotypic traits of clinical cystic fibrosisStaphylococcus aureusisolates
Authors: Mossop Micaela , Robinson Luca , Jiang Jhih-Hang , Peleg Anton Y. , Blakeway Luke V. , Macesic Nenad , Perry Audrey , Bourke Stephen , Ulhuq Fatima R. , Palmer Tracy
Published: December 2022

Introduction

One third of people with CF in the UK are co-infected by bothStaphylococcus aureusandPseudomonas aeruginosa. Chronic bacterial infection in CF contributes to the gradual destruction of lung tissue, and eventually respiratory failure in this group.

Gap Statement

The contribution ofS. aureusto cystic fibrosis (CF) lung decline in the presence or absence ofP. aeruginosais unclear. Defining the molecular and phenotypic characteristics of a range ofS. aureusclinical isolates will help further understand its pathogenic capabilities.

Aim

Our objective was to use molecular and phenotypic tools to characterise twenty-five clinicalS. aureusisolates collected from mono- and coinfection withP. aeruginosafrom people with CF at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne.

Methodology

Genomic DNA was extracted and sequenced. Multilocus sequence typing was used to construct phylogeny from the seven housekeeping genes. A pangenome was calculated using Roary. and cluster of Orthologous groups were assigned using eggNOG-mapper which were used to determine differences within core, accessory, and unique genomes. Characterisation of sequence type, clonal complex,agrandspatypes was carried out using PubMLST, eBURST, AgrVATE and spaTyper, respectively. Antibiotic resistance was determined using Kirby Bauer disk diffusion tests. Phenotypic testing of haemolysis was carried out using ovine red blood cell agar plates and mucoid phenotypes visualised using Congo red agar.

Results

Clinical strains clustered closely based onagrtype, sequence type and clonal complex. COG analysis revealed statistically significant enrichment of COG families between core, accessory and unique pangenome groups. The unique genome was significantly enriched for replication, recombination and repair, and defence mechanisms. The presence of known virulence genes and toxins were high within this group, and unique genes were identified in 11 strains. Strains which were isolated from the same patient all surpassed average nucleotide identity thresholds, however, differed in phenotypic traits. Antimicrobial resistance to macrolides was significantly higher in the coinfection group.

Conclusion

There is huge variation in genetic and phenotypic capabilities ofS. aureusstrains. Further studies on how these may differ in relation to other species in the CF lung may give insight into inter-species interactions.

Data summary

The assembled GenBank (gbk) files for all clinical isolates in this study have been deposited in ENA under the study accession PRJEB56184, accession numbers for each of the twenty-five clinical isolates have been provided in Table S1. The reference strains were collected from the NCBI BioSample database (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/biosample): MRSA_252 (NC_002952.2), HO 5096 0412 (NC_017763.1), ST398 (NC_017333.1) and NCTC8325 (NC_007795.1).
A system for inducible mitochondria-specific protein degradationin vivo
Authors: Sanyal Swastika , Kouznetsova Anna , Björkegren Camilla
Published: December 2022

Targeted protein degradation systems developed for eukaryotes employ cytoplasmic machineries to perform proteolysis. This has prevented mitochondria-specific analysis of genome maintaining proteins that localize to both mitochondria and nucleus. Here, we present an inducible mitochondria-specific protein degradation system inSaccharomyces cerevisiaebased on theMesoplasma florumLon (mf-Lon) protease and its corresponding ssrA tag (called PDT). We show that mitochondrially targeted mf-Lon protease efficiently and selectively degrades a PDT-tagged reporter protein localized to the mitochondrial matrix. The degradation can be induced by depleting adenine from the medium and tuned by altering the promoter strength of theMF-LONgene. Finally, we demonstrate that mf-Lon degrades endogenous, dually localized proteins inside mitochondria. In summary, our system is an efficient tool for analysis of intricate mitochondria-nuclear crosstalk essential for proper mitochondrial function.

One-Sentence Summary

Mitochondria-specific protein degradation of dually localized proteins
Human-caused wolf mortality persists for years after discontinuation of hunting
Authors: Oliynyk Roman Teo
Published: December 2022

By the mid-20th century, wolves were nearly extinct in the lower 48 states, with a small number surviving in northern Minnesota. After wolves were placed on the endangered species list in 1973, the northern Minnesota wolf population increased and stabilized by the early 2000s. A wolf trophy hunt was introduced in 2012–2014 and then halted by a court order in December 2014. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources collected wolf radiotelemetry data for the years 2004–2019. Statistical analysis showed that wolf mortality remained close to constant from 2004 until the initiation of the hunt, and that mortality doubled with the initiation of the first hunting and trapping season in 2012, remaining at a nearly constant elevated level through 2019. Notably, average annual wolf mortality increased from 21.7% before wolf hunting seasons (10.0% by human causes and 11.7% natural causes) to 43.4% (35.8% by human causes and 7.6% natural causes). The fine-grained statistical trend implies that human-caused mortality increased sharply during the hunting seasons, while natural mortality initially dropped. While gradually diminishing after the discontinuation of the hunt, human-caused mortality remained high, which could indicate a lasting shift in human attitudes and post-hunt changes in wolf behavior and wolf pack composition.
HIV-1 infection causes depletion of monocytic cells through a non-canonical cell death pathway
Authors: Stuck Michelle , Arnow Nicolas D. , Kazmierski Julia , Walper Felix , Goffinet Christine , Bannert Norbert , Cingöz Oya
Published: December 2022

Programmed cell death is a regulatory mechanism to eliminate infected or damaged cells. Several programmed cell death pathways exist, including apoptosis, necroptosis and pyroptosis, which can be distinguished by the cellular molecules involved. Here we show that infection of monocytic cells with HIV-1 causes cell death, which is dose- and cell type dependent and occurs independently of nucleic acid sensing or interferon (IFN) signaling. Death is observed in the case of near full-length viruses that produce viral proteins upon infection, but not in case of a minimal lentiviral vector that does not express viral gene products, demonstrating the necessity of viral gene products or a near-full length RNA genome to trigger death. Inhibition of reverse transcription or integration rescues cells, indicating that a step after integration is responsible. Using mutant viruses, we further narrow down the step in the retroviral replication cycle that triggers death. Inhibition of diverse cell death pathways individually cannot rescue cells from death following infection, consistent with PANoptosis, a cellular death process that cannot be accounted for by any single programmed cell death pathway alone. Our results elucidate the viral and cellular determinants of cell death caused by HIV-1 infection and outline cellular responses that result in the depletion of specific cell populations.
Plant-PLMview: a database for identifyingcis-regulatory sequences with preferential positions in gene-proximal regions of plants
Authors: Rozière Julien , Samson Franck , Guichard Cécile , Correa Margot , Coursol Sylvie , Martin Marie-Laure , Brunaud Véronique
Published: December 2022

Background

Establishing relationships between transcription factors and target genes is essential for understanding the mechanisms regulating gene expression, which play a fundamental role in plant adaptation to the local environment. Despite the importance of this research area and the tremendous progress in sequencing methods such as ChIP-seq and DAP-seq, we are still far from a complete reconstruction of thecis-regulatory landscape. Only a small number of transcription factors can be assessed from experimental data to identify theircis-regulatory binding sites. This highlights the role thatin silicoapproaches can play to complement experimental data.

Results

We have developed Plant-PLMview, a web-accessible database for detecting preferentiallycis-regulatory sequences in the gene-proximal regions of 20 plant species. Users of Plant-PLMview can (i) access the proximal regions of controlled genes from 20 plant species, (ii) query their own DNA motifs or access 840cis-regulatory sequences from various plant resources, and (iii) use a tool called PLMdetect to search for preferentially located motifs in the gene-proximal regions of a list of genes. Results are displayed via a web interface with a list of DNA motifs preferentially located in a region near the start or end of genes, the distribution of these motifs and associated annotations. In addition, a graphical map of the preferential locations of the motifs in the 5’ and 3’-proximal regions of genes provides an overview of all motifs and genes examined.

Conclusion

Plant-PLMview provides the opportunity to study the proximal landscape of gene regulation in 20 plant genomes. The originality of the database lies in its ease of use thanks to the curated data (cis-regulatory sequences and proximal regions of genes) and the possibility to search through PLMdetect in the 5’-gene-proximal region, but also in the 3’-gene-proximal region, which is rarely explored. The web interface provides numerous graphical views that allow the users to get an overview and interpret the results more easily.
Pro- and anti-tumour activities of CD146/MCAM in breast cancer result from its heterogeneous expression and association with epithelial to mesenchymal transition
Authors: Mannion Aarren J. , Odell Adam F. , Baker Syed Murtuza , Matthews Laura C. , Jones Pamela F. , Cook Graham P.
Published: December 2022

CD146, also known as melanoma cell adhesion molecule (MCAM), is expressed in numerous cancers and has been implicated in the regulation of metastasis. We show that CD146 negatively regulates transendothelial migration (TEM) in breast cancer. This tumour suppressor-like activity is supported by a reduction in MCAM gene expression and increased promoter methylation in tumour tissue compared to normal breast tissue. However, increased CD146/MCAM expression is associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer, a characteristic that is difficult to reconcile with inhibition of TEM by CD146 and its epigenetic silencing. Single cell transcriptome data revealed MCAM expression in multiple cell types, including the tumour vasculature and malignant epithelial cells. MCAM expressing tumour cells were in the minority and expression was associated with epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). Furthermore, gene expression signatures defining invasiveness and a stem cell-like phenotype were most strongly associated with mesenchymal-like tumour cells with low levels of MCAM mRNA, likely to represent an intermediate or hybrid E/M state. Our results show that high levels of MCAM gene expression are associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer because they reflect tumour vascularisation and EMT. However, the inhibitory effects of CD146 on TEM are likely to be weakest in an intermediate state between the epithelial and mesenchymal phenotypes, consistent with highly tumourigenic nature of this population.
Single-cell profiling uncovers aMuc4-expressing metaplastic gastric cell type sustained byHelicobacter pylori-specific inflammation
Authors: O’Brien Valerie P. , Kang Yuqi , Shenoy Meera K. , Finak Greg , Young William C. , Dubrulle Julien , Koch Lisa , Rodriguez Martinez Armando E. , Snow Jazmine A. , Williams Jeffery , Donato Elizabeth , Batra Surinder K. , Yeung Cecilia C.S. , Bullman Susan , Koch Meghan A. , Gottardo Raphael , Salama Nina R.
Published: December 2022

Abstract

Mechanisms forHelicobacter pylori(Hp)-driven stomach cancer are not fully understood. In a transgenic mouse model of gastric preneoplasia, concomitantHpinfection and induction of constitutively active KRAS (Hp+KRAS+) alters metaplasia phenotypes and elicits greater inflammation than either perturbation alone. Gastric single-cell RNA-seq showed thatHp+KRAS+ mice had a large population of metaplastic pit cells that expressed the intestinal mucinMuc4and the growth factor amphiregulin. Metaplastic pit cells were associated with macrophage and T cell inflammation and prevented by gastric immunosuppression. Lineage tracing showed thatMuc4was not dependent on cell-intrinsic KRAS activity, and lineage-derived cells had a limited propensity for growth as organoids, demonstrating that metaplastic pit cells are largely not self- renewing. Finally, MUC4 expression was significantly associated with proliferation in human gastric cancer samples. These studies identify anHp-associated metaplastic pit cell lineage, also found in human gastric cancer tissues, whose expansion is driven byHp-dependent inflammation.

Statement of Significance

Using a mouse model, we have delineated metaplastic pit cells as a pre-cancerous cell type whose expansion requiresH. pylori-driven inflammation. In humans, metaplastic pit cells show enhanced proliferation as well as enrichment in precancer and early cancer tissues, highlighting an early step in the gastric metaplasia to cancer cascade.
Core genome MLST for epidemiological and evolutionary analyses of phytopathogenicXanthomonas citri
Authors: Ragupathy R , Jolley K. A. , Zamuner C. , Jones J. B. , Redfern J. , Behlau F. , Ferreira H. , Enright M.C.
Published: December 2022

Xanthomonas citrisubspeciescitri(XCC) is the cause of bacterial citrus canker, responsible for major economic losses to the citrus industry that includes sweet orange, lime and grapefruit production in regions including South America, United States, China and Japan. OtherX. citrisubsp. and pathovars are responsible for diseases in crops such as soy bean, common bean, mango, pomegranate and cashew. Tracing the spread ofX. citridisease has been performed using several different typing methods over the years but recent studies using genomic sequencing have been key to understanding evolutionary relationships within the species including fundamental differences between XCC pathotypes.

In this study we developed a core genome multilocus typing scheme (cgMLST) forX. citribased upon 250 genomes comprising multiple examples ofX. citrisubsp.citripathotypes A, A* and Aw,X. citrisubsp.malvacearumandX. citripathovarsaurantifolii, fuscans, glycines, malvacearum, mangiferaeindicae, viticola, vignicolaand single isolates ofX. citripathovarsdieffenbachiaeandpunicae. This dataset included genomic sequencing of 100 novel XCC isolates. The cgMLST scheme, based upon 1618 core genes across 250 genomes, has been implemented at PubMLST (https://pubmlst.org/organisms/xanthomonas-citri/). Grapetree minimum-spanning, and iTOL Neighbour-joining phylogenies generated from cgMLST data resolved almost identical groupings of isolates to a core genome SNP - based neighbour joining phylogeny taking 4 min, 15 min and 36 h respectively. These resolved identical groupings of XCC pathotypes andX. citrisubsp. and pathovars.

X. citricgMLST should prove to be an increasingly valuable resource for the study of this key species of plant pathogenic bacteria. Users can submit genomic and associated metadata to compare with previously characterised isolates atPubMLST.orgto allow rapid characterization of local, national and global epidemiology of these pathogens and examine evolutionary relationships.
Unpacking the value conversion in a circular business model: exploring the effect of competitive criteria
Authors: Galvão Graziela Darla Araujo , Ferrer Paulo Sergio Scoleze , Evans Steve , Carvalho Marly Monteiro de
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This research aims to investigate the influence of the implementation of technical cycles on both captured value and shared value in the circular economy context. Moreover, it analyses the moderating effect of competitive criteria on the relationship between technical cycles and captured value. Finally, it examines the relationship between the captured value and the shared value.

Design/methodology/approach

This research follows survey-based research with data gathered from 50 countries and 16 sectors, whose final sample represented 233 organisations. In order to validate the structural and measurement model, the authors applied the partial least squares structural equation modelling technique in the strict rigour of the confirmatory algorithm.

Findings

The validated research model demonstrates the value flow through technical cycles. Moreover, it shows the crucial role of the competitive criteria in the value stream through direct, moderate and indirect effects by influencing the relationship between technical cycles and captured and shared values. Finally, the study fills the gap for quantitative studies in the circular economy field.

Practical implications

From a practical perspective, this study contributes to structuring circular business models more robustly, by understanding the influence of competitive criteria (cost, quality, flexibility and delivery) on the conversion of operation strategy in the implementation of the technical cycles in the circular economy context. It contributes to decision-makers, in deciding on which competitive criteria to invest more, which brings more consistent results for technical cycle implementation. It also confirms the importance of partnerships, demonstrating how value cascades from the company through the value network.

Originality/value

As far as is known to date, this is the first study investigating the influence of competitive criteria in the circular economy context. Furthermore, it sheds light on the direct and indirect effects of the technical cycles on value captured by organisations and flow shared value with other players.
Ultrasonic washing as an abiotic elicitor to increase the phenolic content in fruits and vegetables: A review
Authors: Hong Chen , Zhao Yi‐Ming , Zhou Cunshan , Guo Yiting , Ma Haile
Published: December 2022

Ultrasonic washing has been widely applied to the postharvest storage of fruits and vegetables as a residue‐free physical washing technology, which plays an important role in improving shelf‐life, safety, and nutritional value. Phenolics are a large group of phytochemicals widespread in fruits and vegetables, and they have been considered potential protective factors against some diseases because of potent antioxidative properties. Previous studies have shown that ultrasonic washing can increase the phenolic content of fruits and vegetables immediately or during storage through the induction of plant stress responses, which is of great significance for improving the functional and nutritional value of fruits and vegetables. However, the mechanisms of ultrasound as an elicitor to improve the phenolic content remain controversial. Therefore, this review summarizes the applications of ultrasonic washing to increase the phenolic content in fruits and vegetables. Meanwhile, the corresponding physiological stress response mechanisms of the phenolic accumulation in terms of immediate stress responses (i.e., higher extractability of phenolics) and late stress responses (i.e., metabolism of phenolics) are expounded. Moreover, a hypothetical model is proposed to explain phenolic biosynthesis triggered by signaling molecules produced under ultrasound stress, including primary signal (i.e., extracellular adenosine triphosphate) and secondary signals (e.g., reactive oxygen species, Ca2+, NO, jasmonates, and ethylene). Additionally, the techno‐economic feasibility of ultrasonic washing technology is also discussed. Further, challenges and trends for further development of ultrasonic washing as an abiotic elicitor applied to the postharvest storage of fruits and vegetables are presented.
Worksite health promotion for employees working from home: A vignette experiment examining intentions to participate
Authors: van der Put Anne C. , Mandemakers Jornt J. , de Wit John B. F. , van der Lippe Tanja
Published: December 2022

This study explores which factors affect employees' intention to participate in worksite health promotion (WHP) when they work from home. Employees increasingly work from home, yet existing WHP is mainly tied to the workplace. We lack knowledge on what might stimulate employees to make use of WHP specifically when they work from home. Drawing on the theory of reasoned action, we studied whether type of activity, duration, if WHP takes place during work time, how often employees work from home (shaping employees' attitude) and colleague participation (social norms) explain employees' intention to participate in WHP when working from home. To do so, we employed a vignette experiment. Results show that employees' intentions are higher for walking and taking breaks than for an online sports class. Moreover, intentions are higher for shorter activities and when participating in WHP can be done during work time. The more colleagues participate, the higher intentions of employees to do so too. By offering WHP for employees at home, employers can promote employees' health even when these are not present in the workplace. Our study provides leads into how employers may create conditions under which employees use WHP when working from home.