bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing Tumor Microenvironment Characteristics and Stratifying EPR with a Nanobubble Companion Nanoparticle via Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Cooley Michaela B. , Wegierak Dana , Perera Reshani , Abenojar Eric C. , Nittayacharn Pinunta A. , Berg Felipe M. , Kim Youjoung , Kolios Michael C. , Exner Agata A.
Published: November 2023

The tumor microenvironment is characterized by dysfunctional endothelial cells, resulting in heightened vascular permeability. Many nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems attempt to use this enhanced permeability combined with impaired lymphatic drainage (a concept known as the ‘enhanced permeability and retention effect’ or EPR effect) as the primary strategy for drug delivery, but this has not proven to be as clinically effective as anticipated. The specific mechanisms behind the inconsistent clinical outcomes of nanotherapeutics have not been clearly articulated, and the field has been hampered by a lack of accessible tools to study EPR-associated phenomena in clinically relevant scenarios. While medical imaging has tremendous potential to contribute to this area, it has not been broadly explored. This work examines, for the first time, the use of multiparametric dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) with a novel nanoscale contrast agent to examine tumor microenvironment characteristics noninvasively and in real-time. We demonstrate that CEUS imaging can: (1) evaluate tumor microenvironment features and (2) be used to help predict the distribution of doxorubicin-loaded liposomes in the tumor parenchyma. CEUS using nanobubbles (NBs) was carried out in two tumor types of high (LS174T) and low (U87) vascular permeability, and time-intensity curve (TIC) parameters were evaluated in both models prior to injection of doxorubicin liposomes. Consistently, LS174T tumors showed significantly different TIC parameters, including area under the rising curve (2.7x), time to peak intensity (1.9x) and decorrelation time (DT, 1.9x) compared to U87 tumors. Importantly, the DT parameter successfully predicted tumoral nanoparticle distribution (r = 0.86 ± 0.13). Ultimately, substantial differences in NB-CEUS generated parameters between LS174T and U87 tumors suggest that this method may be useful in determining tumor vascular permeability and could be used as a biomarker for identifying tumor characteristics and predicting sensitivity to nanoparticle-based therapies. These findings could ultimately be applied to predicting treatment efficacy and to evaluating EPR in other diseases with pathologically permeable vasculature.
Less is More: Nek2A Unclusters Extra Centrosomes and Induces Cell Death in Cancer Cells via KIF2C Interaction
Authors: Kalkan Batuhan Mert , Özcan Selahattin Can , Çiçek Enes , Gönen Mehmet , Açılan Ceyda
Published: November 2023

Unlike normal cells, cancer cells frequently exhibit extra centrosomes, leading to formation of multipolar spindles that can trigger cell death. Nevertheless, they manage to divide successfully and escape the deadly consequences of unequal segregation of genomic material by coalescing their extra centrosomes into two poles. This unique trait of cancer cells presents a promising target for cancer therapy, focusing on selectively attacking cells with supernumerary centrosomes.

Nek2A is a kinase involved in mitotic regulation, including the centrosome cycle, where it phosphorylates linker proteins to separate centrosomes. In this study, we investigated if Nek2A also unclusters extra centrosomes, akin to its separation function. Reduction of Nek2A activity, achieved through knockout, silencing, or inhibition, promotes centrosome clustering, whereas its overexpression results in unclustering. Significantly, this unclustering activity induces cell death, but only in cancer cells with extra centrosomes, bothin vitro and in vivo. Notably, none of the known centrosomal (e.g., CNAP1, Rootletin, Gas2L1) or non-centrosomal (e.g., TRF1, HEC1) Nek2A targets were implicated in this unclustering activity. Additionally, Nek2A operated via a mechanism distinct from other unclustering factors like HSET and NuMA.

Through TurboID proximity labeling analysis, we identified novel proteins associated with the centrosome or microtubules, expanding the known interaction partners of Nek2A. KIF2C, in particular, emerged as a novel interactor, confirmed through coimmunoprecipitation and localization analysis. The silencing of KIF2C diminished the impact of Nek2A on centrosome unclustering and rescued cell viability. Additionally, elevated Nek2A levels were indicative of better patient outcomes, specifically in those predicted to have excess centrosomes. Therefore, while Nek2A is a proposed target, its use must be specifically adapted to the broader cellular context, especially considering centrosome amplification. Discovering partners such as KIF2C offers fresh insights into cancer biology and new possibilities for targeted treatment.
Monsoonal wet season influences the migration tendency of a catadromous fish (barramundi Lates calcarifer)
Authors: Roberts Brien H. , Morrongiello John R. , Morgan David L. , King Alison J. , Saunders Thor M. , Banks Sam C. , Crook David A.
Published: November 2023

Many animals exhibit partial migration, which occurs when populations contain coexisting contingents of migratory and resident individuals. This individual‐level variation in migration behaviour may drive differences in growth, age at maturity and survival. Therefore, partial migration is widely considered to play a key role in shaping population demography.

Otolith chemistry and microstructural analysis were used to identify the environmental‐ and individual‐specific factors that influence migratory behaviour in the facultatively catadromous barramundi (Lates calcarifer) at two distinct life history stages: firstly, as juveniles migrating upstream into fresh water; and secondly, as adults or sub‐adults returning to the estuarine/marine spawning habitat.

Monsoonal climate played an important role in determining the migration propensity of juveniles: individuals born in the driest year examined (weak monsoon) were more than twice as likely to undergo migration to freshwater than those born in the wettest (strong monsoon) year. In contrast, the ontogenetic timing of return migrations to the estuary by adults and sub‐adults was highly variable and not strongly associated with the environmental parameters examined.

We propose that scarce resources within saline natal habitats during lower rainfall years may provide an ecological incentive for juveniles to migrate upstream, whereas more abundant resources in higher rainfall years may promote resident life histories within estuaries.

We conclude that inter‐annual climatic variation, here evidenced by monsoonal strength, likely plays an important role in driving the persistence of diversified life histories within wild barramundi populations.
Unfunded mandates and taxation
Authors: Shi Hao , Ye Bing
Published: November 2023

In mid‐2006, the Chinese central government increased the salaries and pensions of civil servants in the form of an unfunded mandate to local governments in its coastal areas but a funded mandate in others. On the basis of this policy distinction, we use the difference‐in‐difference (DiD) approach and find that this mid‐2006 unfunded mandate to coastal areas triggered their local governments to raise additional budgetary revenue to balance the increase of their budgetary expenditure. This result is robust under other approaches, such as propensity score matching and the combination of DiD with regression discontinuity, as well as with the inclusion of confounding reforms. We also find that the rule of law helped restrict unfunded counties from passing on their financial burdens to the market. Moreover, following this mid‐2006 unfunded mandate, Chinese coastal local governments increased their budgetary revenue by reducing corporate tax non‐compliance and increasing the de facto corporate income tax rate. In addition, we find some evidence that the mid‐2006 unfunded mandate in Chinese coastal areas inhibited production activities in these areas.
Disclosure of tax‐related critical audit matters and tax‐related outcomes
Authors: Drake Katharine D. , Goldman Nathan C. , Lusch Stephen J. , Schmidt Jaime J.
Published: November 2023

Given that tax‐related critical audit matters (tax CAMs) were prevalent among accelerated filers (18.5% of observations) during the initial year of CAM disclosures, we examine whether an auditor's disclosure of tax CAMs is associated with variation in tax‐related financial reporting quality, tax avoidance, and tax‐related earnings management. Finding an association between tax CAMs and one of these tax outcomes would indicate that the new auditor reporting standard has indirectly affected investors. Examining the first year of CAM disclosures, we do not find that tax CAMs are associated with broad proxies of tax‐related audit or financial reporting quality (e.g., restatements, internal control weaknesses, comment letters) or tax avoidance (e.g., effective tax rates or book‐to‐tax differences). We do find that tax CAMs are associated with a modest increase in tax accrual quality, an increase in the reserve for unrecognized tax benefits, and a reduction in the likelihood of tax‐related earnings management. However, we do not find these tax CAM effects persist into the second year of CAM reporting. Our evidence is consistent with tax CAM disclosures having a modest but short‐lived effect on companies' reporting of tax accounts. Our findings should inform the PCAOB as they conduct their post‐implementation review of the new audit reporting standard.
Quantifying the potential for wind and phoresy to drive off‐plant movement of crapemyrtle bark scale, Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae (Kuwana) (Hemiptera: Eriococcidae): Implications for spread in urban landscapes
Authors: Wright Erika R. , Chase Kevin D. , Ward Samuel F.
Published: November 2023

After non‐native herbivores arrive in a novel habitat and establish, they must then disperse to new host plants to continue invading. While flight‐capable insect herbivores can expand their non‐native ranges by flying to new hosts, insects that lack wings, such as female scale insects, are often aided in their spread by wind and phoretic dispersal vectors such as birds and mammals.

After being detected in 2004 in a Texas nursery, crapemyrtle bark scale (CMBS), Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae (Kuwana) (Hemiptera: Eriococcidae), has established in 15 different states across the Southeast and Middle Atlantic regions of the USA.

We quantified the wind speeds leading to scale insect dislodgement and, in the laboratory and field, evaluated the willingness of CMBS nymphs to crawl onto vector proxies (bird feathers and mammal fur).

Our findings demonstrate that CMBS nymphs can become dislodged from ecologically relevant substrates at low wind speeds (~7 m/s) and provided evidence that CMBS nymphs willingly, though not preferentially, crawl onto vector proxies, a final step before dispersing phoretically. Our results indicate that trees with high‐density infestations of CMBS are frequent sources of propagules, given that (i) wind speeds that shake small tree branches are likely to dislodge active crawlers and (ii) active crawlers appear willing to walk onto birds and mammals.

The apparent ease of between‐tree spread by CMBS via multiple modes of dispersal presents challenges for preventing the spread of this insect, but field confirmation of these mechanisms is needed to understand their relative importance.
Biallelic hypomorphic variants in CAD cause uridine‐responsive macrocytic anaemia with elevated haemoglobin‐A2
Authors: Steinberg‐Shemer Orna , Yacobovich Joanne , Noy‐Lotan Sharon , Dgany Orly , Krasnov Tanya , Barg Assaf , Landau Yuval E. , Kneller Katya , Somech Raz , Gilad Oded , Brik Simon Dafna , Orenstein Naama , Izraeli Shai , del Caño‐Ochoa Francisco , Tamary Hannah , Ramón‐Maiques Santiago
Published: November 2023

Biallelic pathogenic variants in CAD, that encode the multienzymatic protein required for de‐novo pyrimidine biosynthesis, cause early infantile epileptic encephalopathy‐50. This rare disease, characterized by developmental delay, intractable seizures and anaemia, is amenable to treatment with uridine. We present a patient with macrocytic anaemia, elevated haemoglobin‐A2 levels, anisocytosis, poikilocytosis and target cells in the blood smear, and mild developmental delay. A next‐generation sequencing panel revealed biallelic variants in CAD. Functional studies did not support complete abrogation of protein function; however, the patient responded to uridine supplement. We conclude that biallelic hypomorphic CAD variants may cause a primarily haematological phenotype.
What do remote outer island populations in the Pacific think about foreign aid? Insights from Mauke, Cook Islands
Authors: Kessler Kim Andreas
Published: November 2023

Motivation

Pacific aid research has largely focused on national issues and social justice, rather than spatial justice and the development of remote outer islands. In particular, the perspectives of remote outer island populations on aid have not previously been assessed.

Purpose

This study explores the experiences and views of the population of a remote Pacific outer island, Mauke in the Cook Islands, on the foreign aid they receive. By listening to and learning from local people living with aid on a remote outer island, this article seeks to address spatially insensitive Pacific aid research and policy. Based on these insights, the article derives policy implications for aid and development actors working on Mauke and other remote outer islands in the Pacific.

Methods and approach

Employing a mixed‐methods approach, this article draws on field research conducted on Mauke, involving in‐depth semi‐structured interviews and a quantitative survey.

Findings

The people of Mauke are divided about whether the island should receive more or less aid. Those calling for more aid tend to be younger; they stress the need for infrastructure development. Those advocating for less aid tend to be older; they argue that aid has harmed Mauke by decreasing endogenous initiatives and creating social tensions, both of which reduce social cohesion among the remote island population.

Policy implications

Rather than investing in “community‐based/−led development”—doing development with the community, aid to remote Pacific outer islands should focus more on “community development”—with the aim of enhancing social cohesion among peripheral islands. Donors, governments, and development partners must carefully reflect on the degree to which their interventions may harm social cohesion and the endogenous development potential of remote outer island populations. These implications matter given the persistence of uncritical (mis)representations and (mis)conceptions of remote Pacific outer island populations as harmonious and mutually supportive.
Mitral valve leaflet stiffness predicts residual mitral regurgitation after transcatheter edge‐to‐edge mitral valve repair
Authors: Hashimoto Sho , Yamano Michiyo , Yamano Tetsuhiro , Zen Kan , Matsubara Yuki , Takamatsu Kazuaki , Yashige Masaki , Nakamura Takeshi , Shiraishi Hirokazu , Matoba Satoaki
Published: November 2023

Background

Residual regurgitation after transcatheter edge‐to‐edge mitral valve repair (TMVR) is a predictor of poor prognosis in patients with functional mitral regurgitation (FMR). This study sought to identify the mitral valve (MV) parameters measured by three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D‐TEE) and MV leaflet features that predict residual mitral regurgitation (MR) after TMVR in patients with FMR.

Methods

Consecutive patients with FMR who underwent TMVR were classified into two groups based on the degree of residual MR just after TMVR: < 2+ in the optimal MR reduction group and ≥ 2+ in the suboptimal MR reduction group. The two groups were compared with respect to 3D‐TEE parameters and the MV leaflet features, including the following parameters: stiffness, defined as a leaflet that remains at a fixed angle even during diastole, and thickness, measured in both clear and rough zones.

Results

Thirty‐four of 46 patients (74%) were classified as the optimal MR reduction group. Multivariable analysis showed that anterior mitral leaflet + posterior mitral leaflet length/anteroposterior annulus diameter (p = .044) and MV leaflet stiffness (p = .007) were independent predictors of residual MR.

Conclusion

MV leaflet stiffness and the ratio of MV leaflet lengths to the annulus diameter may be good predictors of residual MR after TMVR in patients with FMR.
Repeated evolution of herbicide resistance in Lolium multiflorum revealed by haplotype‐resolved analysis of acetyl‐CoA carboxylase
Authors: Brunharo Caio A. C. G. , Tranel Patrick J.
Published: November 2023

Herbicide resistance in weeds is one of the greatest challenges in modern food production. The grass species Lolium multiflorum is an excellent model species to investigate evolution under similar selection pressure because populations have repeatedly evolved resistance to many herbicides, utilizing a multitude of mechanisms to neutralize herbicide damage. In this work, we investigated the gene that encodes acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACCase), the target site of the most successful herbicide group available for grass weed control. We sampled L. multiflorum populations from agricultural fields with history of intense herbicide use, and studied their response to three ACCase‐inhibiting herbicides. To elucidate the mechanisms of herbicide resistance and the genetic relationship among populations, we resolved the haplotypes of 97 resistant and susceptible individuals by sequencing ACCase amplicons using long‐read DNA sequencing technologies. Our dose–response data indicated the existence of many, often unpredictable, resistance patterns to ACCase‐inhibiting herbicides, where populations exhibited as much as 37‐fold reduction in herbicide response. The majority of the populations exhibited resistance to all three herbicides studied. Phylogenetic and molecular genetic analyses revealed multiple evolutionary origins of resistance‐endowing ACCase haplotypes, as well as widespread admixture in the region regardless of cropping system. The amplicons generated were diverse, with haplotypes exhibiting 26–110 polymorphisms. Polymorphisms included insertions and deletions 1–31 bp in length, none of which were associated with the resistance phenotype based on an association analysis. We also found evidence that some populations have multiple mechanisms of resistance. Our results highlight the astounding genetic diversity in L. multiflorum populations, and the potential for repeated evolution of herbicide resistance across the landscape that challenges weed management approaches and jeopardizes sustainable weed control practices. We provide an in‐depth discussion of the evolutionary and practical implications of our results.
Endogenous hydrogen sulphide deficiency and exogenous hydrogen sulphide supplement regulate skin fibroblasts proliferation via necroptosis
Authors: Li Ling , Chen Xudong , Liu Chang , He Ziying , Shen Qiyan , Zhu Yue , Wang Xin , Cao Shuanglin , Yang Shengju
Published: November 2023

An excessive proliferation of skin fibroblasts usually results in different skin fibrotic diseases. Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) is regarded as an important endogenous gasotransmitter with various functions. The study aimed to investigate the roles and mechanisms of H2S on primary mice skin fibroblasts proliferation. Cell proliferation and collagen synthesis were assessed with the expression of α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), Collagen I and Collagen III. The degree of oxidative stress was evaluated by dihydroethidium (DHE) and MitoSOX staining. Mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was detected by JC‐1 staining. Necroptosis was evaluated with TDT‐mediated dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) and expression of receptor‐interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1), RIPK3 and mixed lineage kinase domain‐like protein (MLKL). The present study found that α‐SMA, PCNA, Collagen I and Collagen III expression were increased, oxidative stress was promoted, ΔΨm was impaired and positive rate of TUNEL staining, RIPK1 and RIPK3 expression as well as MLKL phosphorylation were all enhanced in skin fibroblasts from cystathionine γ‐lyase (CSE) knockout (KO) mice or transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1, 10 ng/mL)‐stimulated mice skin fibroblasts, which was restored by exogenous sodium hydrosulphide (NaHS, 50 μmol/L). In conclusion, endogenous H2S production impairment in CSE‐deficient mice accelerated skin fibroblasts proliferation via promoted necroptosis, which was attenuated by exogenous H2S. Exogenous H2S supplement alleviated proliferation of skin fibroblasts with TGF‐β1 stimulation via necroptosis inhibition. This study provides evidence for H2S as a candidate agent to prevent and treat skin fibrotic diseases.
Integrated effects of nutrition‐related, physical, and social factors on frailty among community‐dwelling older adults: A 7‐year follow‐up from the Kashiwa cohort study
Authors: Lyu Weida , Tanaka Tomoki , Bo‐Kyung Son , Yoshizawa Yasuyo , Akishita Masahiro , Iijima Katsuya
Published: November 2023

Aim

To investigate the impact of nutrition‐related, physical, and social factors as well as their transitions on frailty over a 7‐year follow‐up period among community‐dwelling older adults.

Methods

Participants were 868 non‐frail older adults. Frailty was assessed using the Cardiovascular Health Study index. Nutrition‐related, physical, and social factors have been defined in our previous study. Cox regression analysis was conducted to investigate the association between the three factors at baseline and new‐onset frailty during a 7‐year follow‐up period. Furthermore, transitions in the three factors over two/three consecutive years and their association with frailty were investigated using lagged generalized estimating equations.

Results

The mean age was 73.8 ± 4.8 years (women, 47.0%), and the incidence of frailty was 12.5% during the 7‐year follow‐up period. Compared with participants who met the three factors' criteria at baseline, those who met two, one, and none showed associations with greater adjusted hazard ratios of new‐onset frailty (1.73, 95% confidence interval 0.87–3.42; 2.04 [1.01–4.12]; and 5.69 [2.82–11.47]). Generalized estimating equation analysis showed that, compared with older adults who maintained all the three criteria met, those who improved the quantity of criteria met, who maintained the less than three criteria met, and who decreased the quantity of criteria met showed (marginally) significant associations with greater adjusted odds ratios of frailty (2.86 [0.88–9.31], 3.70 [1.10–12.45], and 4.75 [1.42–15.85]).

Conclusions

Practicing and maintaining all three factors in daily life are crucial for frailty prevention. Future research should explore strategies to motivate behavioral modifications in these factors at the population level. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 162–169.
Profile of Helicobacter pylori infections among children in the South Island of New Zealand (2010–2021)
Authors: Vernon‐Roberts Angharad , Premaratne Malshi , Wright Raewyn , Keenan Jacqueline I. , Day Andrew S.
Published: November 2023

Background

Helicobacter pylori is a gram‐negative gut bacterium most often acquired during childhood. International guidelines state that children with suspected H. pylori infection should be referred to a gastroenterologist for investigation via gastroscopy and biopsy. Eradication therapy should be prescribed for children with peptic ulcer disease or following a treatment risk/benefit discussion for those with an incidental gastroscopy finding. Guidelines state that for children a “test‐and‐treat” approach is not warranted, contrasting recommendations for adults. The aim of this study was to profile pediatric H. pylori infections in the South Island of New Zealand (NZ) to determine diagnostic and management strategies, and adherence to international guidelines.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective data for positive H. pylori tests between 2010 and 2021 were retrieved from hospitals and regional testing laboratories throughout the South Island (NZ) for children ≤18 years. Outcome data were retrieved from tertiary care hospital records; sociodemographic, testing methods, eradication therapy, and symptoms.

Results

Two‐hundred and forty children were identified: 105 (44%) male, mean age 13.2 years (SD 4.3). Participants of Pasifika, Asian, and Middle Eastern/Latin American/African heritage were overrepresented compared to the NZ census data. Overall, 138 (58%) children were diagnosed via stool antigen tests, 78 (32%) serum, and only 24 (10%) adhered to international guidelines in being confirmed via gastroscopy. Only 59 (25%) had a record of eradication therapy, and 39/59 (66%) were retested to determine eradication success, with 32 (82%) negative tests and seven (18%) remaining positive. Of the 181 (75%) that had eradication status unknown, 66 (28%) had a retest result available with 48 (73%) testing negative and 18 (27%) positive, suggesting a substantial proportion had received eradication therapy without adhering to international guidelines.

Conclusions

International guidelines were not adhered to for most children in the study cohort. Implications of this include cost, unnecessary venipuncture, and unjustified antibiotic exposure.
Development and validation of an UHPLC‐DAD method for simultaneous quantification of twenty‐one diverse phenolics and its implementation in household food products
Authors: Anmol  , Aggarwal Gaurav , Sharma Upendra
Published: November 2023

Herein, an ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled to a diode array detector (UHPLC‐DAD) based quantification method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of 21 bioactive phenolic compounds present abundantly in food products. The developed method was validated in terms of parameters such as linearity, detection and quantification limits, intra‐day and inter‐day precision and recovery showing ideal results. Further, the developed method was applied for the quantitative analysis of phenolics in commercially procured dietary samples such as spices, green tea, black tea and dark chocolate. The major phenolics quantified in dry weight of different samples were epigallocatechin gallate (425.5 mg/10 g), epicatechin gallate (111.9 mg/10 g) in green tea; gallocatechin (286.8 mg/10 g) in dark chocolate; and naringin (93.9 mg/10 g) in star anise etc. Overall, the UHPLC‐DAD‐based method was found to be reliable, simple and specific for the estimation of phenolics in different targeted food samples.
International council for standardisation in haematology recommendations on fibrinogen assays, thrombin clotting time and related tests in the investigation of bleeding disorders
Authors: Mackie Ian , Casini Alessandro , Pieters Marlien , Pruthi Rajiv , Reilly‐Stitt Chris , Suzuki Atsuo
Published: November 2023

This guidance was prepared on behalf of the International Council for Standardisation in Haematology (ICSH) by an international working group of clinicians and scientists. The document focuses on tests and assays used for the assessment of fibrinogen function, particularly in the scenario of bleeding disorders. Thrombin clotting time (TT) is used as a screening test in some laboratories and also has some utility when direct anticoagulants are in use. The Clauss fibrinogen assay remains the method of choice for the assessment of fibrinogen function, but there are some situations where the results may be misleading. Prothrombin time derived fibrinogen assays are frequently used, but should be interpreted with caution; the results are not interchangeable between different methods and fibrinogen can be overestimated in certain clinical scenarios. Viscoelastic point of care methods may be helpful in emergency situations, while Reptilase time (and similar tests) are useful combined with TT in distinguishing heparin contamination of samples (i.e., if an incorrect blood draw is suspected) and the presence of direct thrombin inhibitors. Fibrinogen antigen assays should be used in the investigation of functional fibrinogen abnormalities; fibrinogen antigen and genetic testing are recommended in the confirmation of congenital fibrinogen disorders. The following recommendations for fibrinogen function assessment are based on published literature and expert opinion and should supplement local regulations and standards.
Incidence and predictors of intraoperative hypotension during transurethral bladder tumor resection with oral 5‐aminolevulinic acid
Authors: Ishikawa Yudai , Tanaka Hajime , Fujiwara Motohiro , Nakamura Yuki , Fukuda Shohei , Waseda Yuma , Yoshida Soichiro , Yokoyama Minato , Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To analyze the incidence and risk factors of intraoperative hypotension related to photodynamic diagnosis‐assisted transurethral resection of bladder tumor (PDD‐TURBT) with oral 5‐aminolevulinic acid (5‐ALA).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 487 patients with bladder tumors who underwent PDD‐TURBT (n = 184) or conventional TURBT (conv‐TURBT) (n = 303) between 2018 and 2021. Intraoperative hypotension was defined as hypotension requiring vasopressors during TURBT, and its incidence was compared between the two groups. Potential risk factors of intraoperative hypotension, including preoperative change in mean arterial pressure (MAP), were further investigated in patients receiving PDD‐TURBT.

Results

The median age was 72 years, 392 patients (81%) were male, and 203 (42%) had hypertension. TURBT was performed under general and spinal anesthesia in 76 (16%) and 411 (84%) patients, respectively. The incidence of intraoperative hypotension was significantly higher in PDD‐TURBT compared to conv‐TURBT (43% vs. 17%, respectively). The median change in MAP until the induction of anesthesia was +6.5 mmHg (range: −29.0 to +46.3) in the PDD‐TURBT group and +14.7 mmHg (range: −35.3 to +67.7) in the conv‐TURBT group, showing a significantly smaller increase in the PDD‐TURBT group (p < 0.001). In the multivariable analysis for PDD‐TURBT patients, advanced age, general anesthesia, and lower MAP change (<+6.5 mmHg) until anesthesia induction were significantly associated with intraoperative hypotension (p = 0.0104, <0.001, and <0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

Intraoperative hypotension occurred more frequently in patients who underwent PDD‐TURBT than in those who underwent conv‐TURBT. Using oral 5‐ALA decreases preoperative blood pressure elevation and may be responsible for intraoperative hypotension.
Correlation between antibodies against the pathogenic pHERV‐W envelope protein and the inflammatory phase of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ruberto Stefano , Cossu Davide , Sechi Leonardo A.
Published: November 2023

The role of retroviral envelope proteins belonging to the Human Endogenous Retroviral family ‘W’ (HERV‐W), specifically syncytin‐1 and pathogenic HERV‐W (pHERV‐W), as potential risk factors in multiple sclerosis (MS) has been established. This study aimed to investigate the humoral response to syncytin‐1 and pHERV‐W‐derived peptides in a group of relapsing remitting MS patients categorized as having acute or stable disease. Furthermore, an inhibition assay was conducted to assess the extent of cross‐reactivity between the two epitopes. The findings revealed that MS patients in the acute phase exhibited a higher specific antibody response to the pHERV‐W env epitope compared to syncytin‐1. This suggests a potential pathogenic role for pHERV‐W env during the inflammatory stages of central nervous system involvement, and these antibody responses could serve as useful biomarkers for monitoring the progression of the disease.
Implementing interventions to improve compassionate nursing care: A literature review
Authors: Robinson Jackie , Raphael Deborah , Moeke‐Maxwell Tess , Parr Jenny , Gott Merryn , Slark Julia
Published: November 2023

Aim

To identify strategies which support the implementation of interventions to promote compassionate nursing care with a focus on interventions designed to support improved patient outcomes and/or patient experience in acute hospitals.

Methods

An integrative review using the PRISMA guidelines and a 5‐stage framework consisting of problem identification, literature search, data evaluation, data analysis and presentation. CINAHL, Embase, Medline, PsychInfo and Web of Science were systematically searched using key search terms. Hand searches were conducted of the reference lists of eligible articles and searching key journals.

Results

Six articles met the inclusion criteria with six different interventions described. A thematic analysis of the findings identified three key themes relating to the implementation of interventions which promote compassionate nursing care: (1) the importance of evidence; (2) support for nursing development; and (3) planning for and leading implementation.

Conclusion

Compassionate care improves quality of life, the hospital experience and overall recovery. Strong nursing leadership and a supportive team environment are facilitators for delivery of compassionate care in acute settings. Excessive workload, overly rigid reporting and organisational indifference are barriers to delivery of compassionate care.

Implications for nursing policy

Health policy is used to inform the systematic implementation and delivery of patient care informed by best evidence. Health setting, environment and culture are important facets of the implementation of a compassionate care framework. Furthermore, nurse engagement, teamwork and nurse leadership are key facilitators for delivery of compassionate care in acute hospital settings. These findings need to be taken into consideration by policy makers and nursing leaders when designing and implementing compassionate care interventions.

Implications for nursing policy

Implementing interventions to improve compassionate nursing care can be challenging. This review identified the factors which should be considered by policy makers when implementing these interventions systematically throughout the healthcare system.
The mediating role of thriving at work between organizational inducements and work outcomes
Authors: Karadas Georgiana , Vatankhah Sanaz , Ozturk Anastasia , Altun Ozlem
Published: November 2023

The study intends to assess the underlying mechanism of thriving between organizational inducements (OIs) and health care workers’ (HCWs) mental health and work effort based on social exchange theory and the socially embedded model (SEM) of thriving. This study tested a conceptual model regarding the antecedents and outcomes of thriving at work (TW). According to the results of structural equation modelling, both dimensions of OIs predict TW among HCWs. Employees who receive OIs display enhanced levels of thriving, which plays a key role in HCWs’ mental health and their work effort. This research adds important insights to the thriving literature by empirically examining its mediating role between workplace resources and HCWs’ health and work‐related outcomes.
Living with extraction: Environmental injustice, slow observation and the decolonial turn in the Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: Karmakar Goutam
Published: November 2023

Extractive activities in the countries of the Global South, particularly in various regions of Africa, serve as evidence of the pervasive and reinforcing nature of accumulative and commodifying practices, which are deeply rooted in and perpetuate the structural imbalances that have existed since the onset of colonization and the proliferation of colonial capitalism. The historical trajectory of resource and oil exploitation in Africa has been characterized by the occurrence of violent capitolocenes on the continent, eventually resulting in instances of environmental injustice, racial discrimination, socio‐economic deprivation and communal discord. In this context, the article analyses the persistent issues and consequences of environmental injustices in Africa, focusing specifically on the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. This region has been characterized by extensive oil extraction, environmental hazards and subsequent adverse effects. The article posits that the communities in the Niger Delta are subject to a threefold reality, which is characterized by a pattern of slow violence, slow observation and epistemic injustice. Furthermore, this article argues that the amelioration of ongoing environmental injustices on a rampant scale is contingent upon the adoption of a decolonial framework that seeks to advocate for the knowledge of indigenous populations, impoverished masses and marginalized communities in the Niger Delta.
Very Late Appearance of Acute Graft‐versus‐Host Disease after Tapering Immunosuppression
Authors: Wollina Uwe , Sayer Herbert G. , Wollina Karin , Graefe Tim
Published: November 2023

Graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) is a major complication of stem cell transplantation. Here we report a 40‐year‐old woman who developed an acute GVHD 30 months after transplantation. Late and very late appearance of acute GVHD has only been described in rare cases.
Isonicotinic Acid Hydrazide Induced Anagen Effluvium and Associated Lichenoid Eruption
Authors: Sharma Prafulla Kumar , Gautam Ram Krishna , Bhardwaj Meenakshi , Kar Hemant Kumar
Published: November 2023

A 32 year‐old woman developed generalised lichenoid eruptions on her body followed by diffuse loss of scalp hair of the anagen effluvium type. She was receiving several anti‐tubercular drugs, including rifampicin, isonicotinic acid hydrazide (INH), pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, for abdominal tuberculosis. INH, which is a leading cause of drug eruptions in the above group of drugs was withdrawn. However, the other antitubercular drugs were continued along with 40 mg of prednisolone in a single daily morning dose. The latter was discontinued slowly over a period of 10 weeks. There was complete recovery of hair loss and the regrowth started after 12 weeks of alopecia. Such anagen effluvium with lichenoid eruption following INH therapy has not been observed previously. The complete recovery from anagen effluvium is difficult to explain, but it could have been because of the early initiation of corticosteroid.
A simple and efficient hydratable alumina gel‐casting method for the fabrication of high‐porosity mullite ceramics
Authors: Ren Yuhan , Zhang Biao , Zhong Zhaoxin , Ye Jian , Fang Zhiyong , Zhang Jiawei , Ye Feng
Published: November 2023

In this study, we have developed a method for the preparation of porous alumina‐containing ceramics by inorganic gel‐casting of hydratable alumina system. The gelation behavior of hydratable alumina in water and the high‐temperature phase evolution of alumina gels were clarified. In addition, extremely high‐porosity mullite ceramics were prepared using the hydratable alumina gel‐casting method combined with carbon fibers as the pore‐forming agent method. The as‐prepared mullite ceramics have a pore size of less than 10 μm, controllable high porosity of 90.6%–78.1%, a lightweight of 0.30–0.70 g cm−3, high compression strength of 1.41 ± 0.21–16.30 ± 0.20 MPa, low dielectric constants at 30 GHz of 1.34–1.79, the dielectric loss tangent of less than 3 × 10−3, and low thermal conductivities of 0.083–0.305 W/(m K). Lightweight, high strength, excellent dielectric properties, and outstanding thermal insulation indicate the potential of porous mullite ceramics for use in radar radomes or windows.
Exosomal‐miR‐522‐3p derived from cancer‐associated fibroblasts accelerates tumor metastasis and angiogenesis via repression bone morphogenetic protein 5 in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Jun , Pan Yuliang , Jin Long , Yang Huiyun , Cao Peiguo
Published: November 2023

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a gastrointestinal tract malignancy. Exosomes secreted by cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are reported to participate in tumor progression by delivering noncoding RNA or small proteins. However, the function of exosomal miR‐522‐3p in CRC remains unclear.

Methods

CAFs were derived from tumor tissues, and exosomes were identified by western blot or TEM/NTA and originated from CAFs/NFs. The viability, invasion, and migration of HUVECs and CRC cells was examined using MTT, Transwell, and wound healing assays, respectively. The molecular interactions were validated using dual luciferase reporter assay and RIP. Xenograft and lung metastasis mouse models were generated to assess tumor growth and metastasis.

Results

Exosomes extracted from CAFs/NFs showed high expression of CD63, CD81, and TSG101. CAF‐derived exosomes significantly increased the viability, angiogenesis, invasion, and migration of HUVECs and CRC cells, thereby aggravating tumor growth, invasion, and angiogenesis in vivo. miR‐522‐3p was upregulated in CAF‐derived exosomes and CRC tissues. Depletion of miR‐522‐3p reversed the effect of exosomes derived from CAFs in migration, angiogenesis, and invasion of HUVECs and CRC cells. Furthermore, bone morphogenetic protein 5 (BMP5) was identified as a target gene of miR‐522‐3p, and upregulation of BMP5 reversed the promoting effect of miR‐522‐3p mimics or CAF‐derived exosomes on cell invasion, migration, and angiogenesis of HUVECs and CRC cells.

Conclusion

Exosomal miR‐522‐3p from CAFs promoted the growth and metastasis of CRC through downregulating BMP5, which might provide new strategies for the treatment of CRC.
Supportive learning environments, impression management and ‘strategic imposterism’: A word of caution
Authors: Huffman Brandon M. , Sawatsky Adam P.
Published: November 2023

Learning environments are critical to individual growth and expression. While high stakes environments can drive self‐doubt and imposterism, the authors warn that overly comfortable environments may encourage ‘strategic imposterism.’
Compartmentalized pressurization is a novel prognostic factor for hypercontractile esophagus
Authors: Leopold Andrew R. , McCarthy Patrick , Nair Anupama , Kim Raymond E. , Xie Guofeng
Published: November 2023

Background

Hypercontractile esophagus (HE) is a disorder of increased esophageal body contractile strength on high‐resolution esophageal manometry (HREM). Compartmentalized pressurization (CP) is a pattern with an isobaric contour of >30 mmHg extending from the contractile front to the lower esophageal sphincter on HREM. The relevance of CP to HE has yet to be explored.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on 830 HREM studies of patients to identify HE. HE patients' CP status and symptoms by Eckardt score (ES) were reviewed. Diagnoses were made using Chicago Classification (CC) v4.0.

Key Results

Forty‐seven patients (5.6%) were identified as having HE by CCv3, 30 (3.6%) of which had HE by CCv4. 11/30 HE patients had CP, and 19/30 did not. CP was associated with chronic opioid use (36.4% vs. 5.3% p = 0.047). Presenting ES was greater for HE patients with CP (7 vs. 4). Seven HE patients with CP and 11 without CP were managed medically. ES after medical therapy was higher in HE patients with CP compared to those without CP (9 vs. 0). No HE patients with CP responded to medical therapy. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated significance of this association over time. 83% of all HE patients had all‐cause symptom remission.

Conclusions & Inferences

HE patients with CP are associated with a higher presenting ES. HE patients with CP do not respond to medical therapy, while HE patients without CP frequently do respond. CP in HE may have prognostic value in determination of treatment strategy for patients with HE.
A journey into the world of small RNAs in the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis
Authors: Ledford William Conrad , Silvestri Alessandro , Fiorilli Valentina , Roth Ronelle , Rubio‐Somoza Ignacio , Lanfranco Luisa
Published: November 2023

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis is a mutualistic interaction between fungi and most land plants that is underpinned by a bidirectional exchange of nutrients. AM development is a tightly regulated process that encompasses molecular communication for reciprocal recognition, fungal accommodation in root tissues and activation of symbiotic function. As such, a complex network of transcriptional regulation and molecular signaling underlies the cellular and metabolic reprogramming of host cells upon AM fungal colonization. In addition to transcription factors, small RNAs (sRNAs) are emerging as important regulators embedded in the gene network that orchestrates AM development. In addition to controlling cell‐autonomous processes, plant sRNAs also function as mobile signals capable of moving to different organs and even to different plants or organisms that interact with plants. AM fungi also produce sRNAs; however, their function in the AM symbiosis remains largely unknown. Here, we discuss the contribution of host sRNAs in the development of AM symbiosis by considering their role in the transcriptional reprogramming of AM fungal colonized cells. We also describe the characteristics of AM fungal‐derived sRNAs and emerging evidence for the bidirectional transfer of functional sRNAs between the two partners to mutually modulate gene expression and control the symbiosis.
Maintenance of host specialisation gradients in ectomycorrhizal symbionts
Authors: Voller Fay , Ardanuy Agnès , Taylor Andy F. S. , Johnson David
Published: November 2023

Many fungi that form ectomycorrhizas exhibit a degree of host specialisation, and individual trees are frequently colonised by communities of mycorrhizal fungi comprising species that fall on a gradient of specialisation along genetic, functional and taxonomic axes of variation. By contrast, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi exhibit little specialisation. Here, we propose that host tree root morphology is a key factor that gives host plants fine‐scale control over colonisation and therefore opportunities for driving specialisation and speciation of ectomycorrhizal fungi. A gradient in host specialisation is likely driven by four proximate mechanistic ‘filters’ comprising partner availability, signalling recognition, competition for colonisation, and symbiotic function (trade, rewards and sanctions), and the spatially restricted colonisation seen in heterorhizic roots enables these mechanisms, especially symbiotic function, to be more effective in driving the evolution of specialisation. We encourage manipulation experiments that integrate molecular genetics and isotope tracers to test these mechanisms, alongside mathematical simulations of eco‐evolutionary dynamics in mycorrhizal symbioses.