bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A plant by any other name: …Foundations for materialist sociological plant studies
Authors: Ergas Christina , York Richard
Published: July 2021

Despite the fact that plants make up 80% of biomass on Earth, sociology rarely examines human–plant relationships. Human societies are inherently dependent on plants, most obviously as the basis of food supply, ecosystems, atmospheric and climate regulation, and water cycles, as well as for sources of oxygen, medicine, fuel, and fibre. Society, or terrestrial animal life for that matter, could not exist without plants. Based on this recognition, here we lay the foundations for sociological plant studies, a field that studies the dialectical relationship between human societies and plants. We ground this foundation in a realist-materialist perspective that recognises the ontological independence of plants and does not reduce them to human social constructions. We show how considering plants can help us to understand the emergence of civilisations, state formation, and mechanisation of production at the macro-level, and how human–plant interactions shape everyday life at a more micro-level. We present our formulation of sociological plant studies as a starting point for future research.
Cancer patients’ information seeking behavior related to online electronic healthcare records
Authors: Rexhepi Hanife , Huvila Isto , Åhlfeldt Rose-Mharie , Cajander Åsa
Published: July 2021

Patients’ online access to their EHR together with the rapid proliferation of medical information on the Internet has changed how patients use information to learn about their health. Patients’ tendency to turn to the Internet to find information about their health and care is well-documented. However, little is known about patients’ information seeking behavior when using online EHRs. By using information horizons as an analytical tool this paper aims to investigate the information behavior of cancer patients who have chosen to view their EHRs (readers) and to those who have not made that option (non-readers). Thirty interviews were conducted with patients. Based on information horizons, it seems that non-reading is associated with living in a narrower information world in comparison to readers. The findings do not suggest that the smallness would be a result of active avoidance of information, or that it would be counterproductive for the patients. The findings suggest, however, that EHRs would benefit from comprehensive linking to authoritative health information sources to help users to understand their contents. In parallel, healthcare professionals should be more aware of their personal role as a key source of health information to those who choose not to read their EHRs.
Ballistic performance of composite structure configurations with high elongation calendered rubber layer laminated to AA5083-H112 aluminum alloy
Authors: Kasım Hasan
Published: July 2021

This study aims to determine the ballistic performances of laminated composite plates produced with AA5083-H112 series aluminum and rubber material with high elongation capacity under impact loading. To investigate the effect of rubber compounds, two types of rubber with calendered and damping were prepared. Thanks to the surface treatment applied to the aluminum plates, the rubber–metal adhesion strength was adjusted, and four different laminated composite plate samples were prepared. Calendered rubber was used on the bullet impact surface of all samples, and damping rubber was used on the back. It has been observed that the pressure barrier created by the calendered rubber bullet on the front face provides high performance to absorb energy. A detailed study was carried out on the total thickness of laminated composite plates, the interface adhesion strength between rubber and aluminum layers, and the ballistic performance of aluminum-rubber combinations. It was concluded that the laminated composite plate’s energy absorption would increase, especially by increasing the thickness of the dumping rubber layer on the back of the aluminum sheets. In the strong metal-rubber interface interaction between the rubber and aluminum layer, the bullet is stopped before the pressure barrier is formed. The penetration depth and bulging height increase, and most of the energy are transmitted through the aluminum plate. In the weak metal-rubber interface interaction, a significant portion of the energy is absorbed by the rubber and air thanks to the pressure barrier.
Experimental assessment of the rotor outlet flow in a twin-entry radial turbine by means of Laser Doppler Anemometry
Authors: Galindo José , Tiseira Andrés Omar , García-Cuevas Luis Miguel , Medina Nicolás
Published: July 2021

The current paper presents the validation of some hypotheses used for developing a one-dimensional twin-entry turbine model with experimental measurements. A Laser Doppler Anemometry (LDA) technique has been used for measuring the axial Mach number and for counting the number of particles downstream of the rotor outlet. These measurements have been done for different mass flow ratio (MFR) and reduced turbocharger speed conditions. The flow coming from each turbine entry does not fully mix with the other within the rotor since, downstream of the rotor, they can still be differentiated. Thus, the hypothesis of studying twin-entry turbines as two separated single-entry turbines in one-dimensional models is corroborated. Moreover, the rotor outlet area corresponding to each flow branch has linear trends with the MFR value. Therefore, the rotor outlet effective area used for one-dimensional models should vary linearly with the MFR value.
Walking, knowing, and the limits of the map: performing participatory cartographies in Indigenous landscapes
Authors: Sletto Bjørn , Barrera de la Torre Gerónimo , Lamina Luguana Alexandra Magaly , Pereira Júnior Davi
Published: July 2021

Post-representational cartography views maps as inherently unstable and unfinished, always in the making and thus singularly open for refolding and re-presentation. This perspective on maps calls for greater attention to the performances, negotiations, and contestations that occur during the ongoing production of maps, particularly in cases where maps are developed during collective, collaborative, and participatory processes in Indigenous landscapes riven by conflict and struggle. In the following, we examine the role of walking for the continual (re)making of participatory maps, specifically engaging with work in Indigenous methodologies to consider how an emphasis on performativity in map-makings may foster a post-representational perspective on Indigenous cartographies. We understand walking as map-making, a form of knowledge production generated by performative and situated storytelling along paths and in places filled with meaning. Drawing on a critical understanding of ‘invitation’ and ‘crossing’, we build on our experiences from participatory mapping projects in Mexico, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Brazil to explore the ways in which the material, performative crossings of bodies through Indigenous landscapes may inspire new forms of knowledge production and destabilize Cartesian cartographic colonialities.
Cone photoreceptor reflectance variation in the northern tree shrew and thirteen-lined ground squirrel
Authors: Gaffney Mina , Cooper Robert F , Cava Jenna A , Follett Hannah M , Salmon Alexander E , Freling Susan , Yu Ching T , Merriman Dana K , Carroll Joseph
Published: July 2021

In vivo images of human cone photoreceptors have been shown to vary in their reflectance both spatially and temporally. While it is generally accepted that the unique anatomy and physiology of the photoreceptors themselves drives this behavior, the exact mechanisms have not been fully elucidated as most studies on these phenomena have been limited to the human retina. Unlike humans, animal models offer the ability to experimentally manipulate the retina and perform direct in vivo and ex vivo comparisons. The thirteen-lined ground squirrel and northern tree shrew are two emerging animal models being used in vision research. Both models feature cone-dominant retinas, overcoming a key limitation of traditional rodent models. Additionally, each possesses unique but well-documented anatomical differences in cone structure compared to human cones, which can be leveraged to further constrain theoretical models of light propagation within photoreceptors. Here we sought to characterize the spatial and temporal reflectance behavior of cones in these species. Adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO) was used to non-invasively image the photoreceptors of both species at 5 to 10 min intervals over the span of 18 to 25 min. The reflectance of individual cone photoreceptors was measured over time, and images at individual time points were used to assess the variability of cone reflectance across the cone mosaic. Variability in spatial and temporal photoreceptor reflectance was observed in both species, with similar behavior to that seen in human AOSLO images. Despite the unique cone structure in these animals, these data suggest a common origin of photoreceptor reflectance behavior across species. Such data may help constrain models of the cellular origins of photoreceptor reflectance signals. These animal models provide an experimental platform to further explore the morphological origins of light capture and propagation.
Celiac Artery Dissection and Retroperitoneal Hemorrhage in Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome Treated With a Stent and Transcatheter Arterial Embolization: Preprocedural 4-Dimensional Computed Tomography Angiography Assessment
Authors: Saiga Atsushi , Koizumi Jun , Osumi Koji , Ota Joji , Kubota Yoshihiro , Wada Takeshi , Akutsu Akira , Watanabe Michiko , Murai Shinji , Masuda Makiko , Uno Takashi
Published: July 2021

A 61-year-old man presented with retroperitoneal hemorrhage caused by an aneurysm rupture of the pancreaticoduodenal arcade (PDA), and acute celiac artery dissection distal to celiac axis stenosis. Owing to the gradual growth of the false lumen, we planned to deploy a stent to the celiac artery dissection and embolize the PDA aneurysm. Prior to stent placement, we assessed the acute celiac artery dissection distal to the stenosis using four-dimensional computed tomography (CT) angiography through expiration/inspiration/expiration cycle. We diagnosed median arcuate ligament syndrome considering that the celiac axis showed a hooked narrowing at end-expiration, and the compression decreased at end-inspiration. Additionally, the true lumen distal to the stretched axis dilated in the inspiration phase. Therefore, we could advance a catheter into the true lumen during inspiration and successfully deploy a stent. Subsequently, laparoscopic median arcuate ligament release was performed after the stent deployment. A postoperative CT scan showed good patency in the stent, with disappearance of the blood filling the false lumen and with reduced celiac axis stenosis.
A reinforcement learning approach to adaptive remediation in online training
Authors: Spain Randall , Rowe Jonathan , Smith Andy , Goldberg Benjamin , Pokorny Robert , Mott Bradford , Lester James
Published: July 2021

Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning can be leveraged to tailor training based on the goals, learning needs, and preferences of learners. A key component of adaptive training systems is tutorial planning, which controls how scaffolding is structured and delivered to learners to create dynamically personalized learning experiences. The goal of this study was to induce data-driven policies for tutorial planning using reinforcement learning (RL) to provide adaptive scaffolding based on the Interactive, Constructive, Active, Passive framework for cognitive engagement. We describe a dataset that was collected to induce RL-based scaffolding policies, and we present the results of our policy analyses. Results showed that the best performing policies optimized learning gains by inducing an adaptive fading approach in which learners received less cognitively engaging forms of remediation as they advanced through the training course. This policy was consistent with preliminary analyses that showed constructive remediation became less effective as learners progressed through the training session. Results also showed that learners’ prior knowledge impacted the type of scaffold that was recommended, thus showing evidence of an aptitude–treatment interaction. We conclude with a discussion of how AI-based training can be leveraged to enhance training effectiveness as well as directions for future research.
Effects of a neutral warning signal on spatial two-choice reactions
Authors: Han Tianfang , Proctor Robert W
Published: July 2021

Posner et al. reported that, at short fixed foreperiods, a neutral warning tone reduced reaction times (RTs) in a visual two-choice task while increasing error rates for both spatially compatible and incompatible stimulus–response mappings. Consequently, they concluded that alertness induced by the warning does not affect the efficiency of information processing but the setting of a response criterion. We conducted two experiments to determine the conditions under which the trade-off occurs. In Experiment 1, participants performed the same two-choice task as in Posner et al.’s study without RT feedback. Results showed that the warning tone speeded responses with no evidence of speed/accuracy trade-off. In Experiment 2, RT feedback was provided after each response, and a speed/accuracy trade-off was found for the 50-ms foreperiod. However, better information-processing efficiency was evident for the 200-ms foreperiod. We conclude that the foreperiod effect of a 50-ms foreperiod is a result of response criterion adjustment and that providing trial-level RT feedback is critical for replicating this pattern. However, fixed foreperiods of 200 ms or longer benefit both speed and accuracy, implying a more controlled preparation component that improves response efficiency.
Efficacy of a Smart Insulin Pen Cap for the Management of Patients with Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Cross-Over Trial
Authors: Galindo Rodolfo J. , Ramos Clementina , Cardona Saumeth , Vellanki Priyathama , Davis Georgia M. , Oladejo Omolade , Albury Bonnie , Dhruv Neil , Peng Limin , Umpierrez Guillermo E.
Published: July 2021

Background:

We studied a smart insulin pen cap that can be plugged to several brand of insulin pens, to track insulin administration via smart-phone Bluetooth technology, with alarm/reminder system aiming.

Methods:

This pilot randomized, cross-over design study assessed the use of a smart insulin pen cap in improving adherence, glycemic control and patient satisfaction in insulin-treated patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes. Eighty patients on basal insulin ± oral agents with hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) between 7.0% and 12.0% were randomized to a 12-week active phase receiving alarms/reminders and a 12-week control/masked phase without feedback. We assessed differences between groups on treatment adherence, insulin omission, and mistiming of insulin injections, HbA1c, treatment satisfaction (using Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire Status).

Results:

Compared to the control/masked phase, the active phase resulted in lower mean daily blood glucose (147.0 ± 34 vs 157.6 ± 42 mg/dL, P < .01); and greater reduction in HbA1c from baseline (−0.98% vs −0.72%, P = .006); however, no significant differences in treatment adherence, insulin omission or insulin mistiming were observed. High patient satisfaction scores were reported in both active and control phases, with DTSQc of 15.5 ± 3.7 and 14.9 ± 3.6, respectively. Statistical models showed no residual effect after cross-over between active and control phases.

Conclusions:

The results of this pilot study indicates that this smart insulin pen cap was effective in improving glycemic control with overall good satisfaction in insulin treated patients with type 2 diabetes. Future studies are needed to confirm its potential for improving care in insulin treated patients with diabetes.
Leveraging Emergent Social Networks to Reduce Sedentary Behavior in Low-Income Parents With Preschool-Aged Children
Authors: Gesell Sabina B. , Barkin Shari L. , Ip Edward H. , Saldana Santiago J. , Sommer Evan C. , Valente Thomas W. , de la Haye Kayla
Published: July 2021

This study tested the hypothesis that parents participating in a pediatric obesity intervention who formed social network ties with a parent in the intervention arm would engage in more daily physical activity and less sedentary behavior (after controlling for participant covariates). Data were collected at baseline, 12 months, and 36 months from 610 low-income parent–child pairs participating in an obesity prevention intervention for 3- to 5-year-old children. A network survey was used to identify social network ties among parents and accelerometers were used to measure parental physical activity and sedentary time. Longitudinal regression analyses tested effects of social network ties on parents’ physical activity and sedentary behavior. Compared with parents without a social network tie, having a tie with an intervention group participant was associated with a clinically meaningful 11.04 min/day decrease in parental sedentary behavior that approached statistical significance (95% confidence interval [CI] = [−22.71, 0.63], p = .06). Social network ties among parents in a pediatric obesity prevention intervention were not clearly associated with reduced sedentary behavior among those parents at the traditional level of p = .05. The large effect size (over 77 min per week improvement) suggests there might be potential importance of promoting new social networks in community-based health promotion interventions to elicit and support behavior change, but further examination is needed.
Cannabis-Induced Pancreatitis in a Young Adult Male
Authors: Sly Morgan , Clark Kiley , Karaghossian George , Narang Vishal K. , Gill Manrajan , Ragland Alan Scott
Published: July 2021

Drugs account for 2% of all the causes of acute pancreatitis. To date, there are approximately 26 reported cases of acute pancreatitis associated with the use of cannabis. We report the case of a 20-year-old male who presented with intractable nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain and a lipase level of 1541 with reportedly no alcohol use, and no evidence of medication, biliary, or autoimmune etiology. However, the patient did endorse heavily smoking cannabis prior to symptom onset. He was instructed to abstain from cannabis use on discharge and has not presented to the hospital since this episode. The reporting of this case aims to increase awareness of cannabis as a differential diagnosis in cases of pancreatitis that is not due to typical etiologies such as gallstones, medications, and alcohol use. There has yet to be definitive evidence as to how cannabis can cause pancreatitis. Further studies must be conducted to better understand the association between cannabis use and acute pancreatitis and the mechanism by which cannabis affects the pancreas.
Keto-Sleuths – An Unusual Cause of Loss of Ketosis?
Authors: Foley Christine M. , Ryan Christopher , Tarrant Stacey , Bergin Ann M.
Published: July 2021

Ketogenic diets provide a non-pharmaceutical alternative for treatment of refractory epilepsy. When successful in reducing or eliminating seizures, medication numbers or doses may be reduced. Unexpected loss of ketosis is a common problem in management of patients on ketogenic diets and, especially when the diet is an effective treatment, loss of ketosis may be associated with an exacerbation in seizures. Identification of the cause of loss of ketosis is critical to allow rapid resumption of seizure control, and prevention of unnecessarily increased diet restriction or increased medication doses. Here an unusual environmental cause of loss of ketosis is described (contamination with starch-containing drywall dust), illustrating the extent of investigation sometimes necessary to understand the clinical scenario.
Light Levels in ICU Patient Rooms: Dimming of Daytime Light in Occupied Rooms
Authors: Lusczek Elizabeth R , Knauert Melissa P
Published: July 2021

One-third of patients report disruption of sleep by overnight light. Importantly, light causes both immediate sleep disturbance and influences circadian function, a fundamental process underpinning high-quality sleep. Short bursts of light at night and/or lack of bright daytime light disrupt circadian alignment, leading to sleep deficiency. To improve understanding of 24-hour light patterns, we conducted a longitudinal study of light levels in intensive care unit (ICU) rooms. Over 450 room-days, we observed high variability, dim daytime light, and active dimming of natural sunlight in occupied rooms. Such noncircadian light patterns have multifactorial influences on sleep and are a key target for sleep improvement in the ICU.
Comparative effect of thermo/pH-responsive polymer-coated gold nanocages and hollow nanostars on chemo-photothermal therapy of breast cancer cells
Authors: Pakravan Asrin , Azizi Mehdi , Rahimi Fariborz , Bani Farhad , Mahmoudzadeh Farideh , Salehi Roya , Mahkam Mehrdad
Published: July 2021

Background

Combination chemo-photothermal therapy appears to be one of the next generations of cancer treatment. In this study hollow gold nanostars (HGNSs) and gold nanocages (GNCs) were synthesized and stabilized with thermo-pH-sensitive thiol-end capped ABC triblock copolymer poly(acrylic acid)-b-poly(N isopropylacrylamide)-b-poly (e-caprolactone)-SH; PAA-b-PNIPAAm-b-PCL-SH (GNSs@Pol). Doxorubicin (Dox) was conjugated to the GNSs@Pol nanostructures via ionic interaction, covalent attachment and hydrogen bonding (GNSs@Dox-Pol). The physicochemical characteristics of prepared GNSs@Pol and GNSs were assessed using dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and zeta potential techniques. Cytocompatibility of the GNSs@Pol was studied by hemolysis assay and MTT assay. The chemo-photothermal therapy (PTT) potential of GNSs@Dox-Pol was compared on MCF7 cells using MTT assay, cell cycle, DAPI staining and Annexin-V apoptosis assay techniques.

Results

Cell internalization results showed an almost complete uptake of GNSs@Pol by MCF-7 cells in the first 3 h of treatment. The heat generation measurement results showed that both of GNSs have a potential for light to heat conversion (∆T = 23–27 ºC) and HGNSs demonstrated better efficiency than GNCs after 10-min exposure to NIR irradiation. Following chemo-photothermal treatment, the highest cell mortality (90%) and apoptotic effects (97% apoptosis) were observed in HGNSs@Dox-Pol received laser irradiation treatment group.

Conclusions

This work highlights the potential application of designed GNSs@Dox-Pol in a combinational chemo-PTT to treat breast cancer cells.

Graphic abstract
Synthesis of gold nanorods and their performance in the field of cancer cell imaging and photothermal therapy
Authors: Khan Naseer Ullah , Lin Jing , Younas Muhammad Rizwan , Liu Xukun , Shen Liming
Published: July 2021

Cancer is one of the most common incident in the world, with malignant tumors having a death rate of up to 19%. A new method of treating cancer cells effectively with minimal cytotoxicity is needed. In the field of biomedicine with unique shape-dependent optical properties, gold nanorods (GNRs) have attracted worldwide interest. These nanorods have two distinct plasmon bands. One is transverse plasmon band in the area of visible light, and the other is longitudinal band of plasmons in near infrared region. These specific characters provide promise for the design of new optically active reagents that simultaneously perform light-mediated imaging and photothermal cancer treatment. We begin our review by summarizing the latest developments in gold nanorods synthesis with a focus on seed-mediated growth method. Nanorods spontaneous self-assembly, polymer-based alignment and its applications as a novel agent for simultaneous bioimaging and photothermal cancer therapy are listed in particular.
Biofilm associated genotypes of multiple antibiotic resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Redfern James , Wallace Janine , van Belkum Alex , Jaillard Magali , Whittard Elliot , Ragupathy Roobinidevi , Verran Joanna , Kelly Peter , Enright Mark Charles
Published: July 2021

Background

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a ubiquitous environmental microorganism and also a common cause of infection. Its ability to survive in many different environments and persistently colonize humans is linked to its presence in biofilms formed on indwelling device surfaces. Biofilm promotes adhesion to, and survival on surfaces, protects from desiccation and the actions of antibiotics and disinfectants.

Results

We examined the genetic basis for biofilm production on polystyrene at room (22 °C) and body temperature (37 °C) within 280 P. aeruginosa. 193 isolates (69 %) produced more biofilm at 22 °C than at 37 °C. Using GWAS and pan-GWAS, we found a number of accessory genes significantly associated with greater biofilm production at 22 °C. Many of these are present on a 165 kb region containing genes for heavy metal resistance (arsenic, copper, mercury and cadmium), transcriptional regulators and methytransferases. We also discovered multiple core genome SNPs in the A-type flagellin gene and Type II secretion system gene xpsD. Analysis of biofilm production of isolates of the MDR ST111 and ST235 lineages on stainless-steel revealed several accessory genes associated with enhanced biofilm production. These include a putative translocase with homology to a Helicobacter pylori type IV secretion system protein, a TA system II toxin gene and the alginate biosynthesis gene algA, several transcriptional regulators and methytransferases as well as core SNPs in genes involved in quorum sensing and protein translocation.

Conclusions

Using genetic association approaches we discovered a number of accessory genes and core-genome SNPs that were associated with enhanced early biofilm formation at 22 °C compared to 37 °C. These included a 165 kb genomic island containing multiple heavy metal resistance genes, transcriptional regulators and methyltransferases. We hypothesize that this genomic island may be associated with overall genotypes that are environmentally adapted to survive at lower temperatures. Further work to examine their importance in, for example gene-knockout studies, are required to confirm their relevance. GWAS and pan-GWAS approaches have great potential as a first step in examining the genetic basis of novel bacterial phenotypes.
Fine dissection of limber pine resistance to Cronartium ribicola using targeted sequencing of the NLR family
Authors: Liu Jun-Jun , Schoettle Anna W. , Sniezko Richard A. , Williams Holly , Zamany Arezoo , Rancourt Benjamin
Published: July 2021

Background

Proteins with nucleotide binding site (NBS) and leucine-rich repeat (LRR) domains (NLR) make up one of most important resistance (R) families for plants to resist attacks from various pathogens and pests. The available transcriptomes of limber pine (Pinus flexilis) allow us to characterize NLR genes and related resistance gene analogs (RGAs) in host resistance against Cronartium ribicola, the causal fungal pathogen of white pine blister rust (WPBR) on five-needle pines throughout the world. We previously mapped a limber pine major gene locus (Cr4) that confers complete resistance to C. ribicola on the Pinus consensus linkage group 8 (LG-8). However, genetic distribution of NLR genes as well as their divergence between resistant and susceptible alleles are still unknown.

Results

To identify NLR genes at the Cr4 locus, the present study re-sequenced a total of 480 RGAs using targeted sequencing in a Cr4-segregated seed family. Following a call of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and genetic mapping, a total of 541 SNPs from 155 genes were mapped across 12 LGs. Three putative NLR genes were newly mapped in the Cr4 region, including one that co-segregated with Cr4. The tight linkage of NLRs with Cr4-controlled phenotypes was further confirmed by bulked segregation analysis (BSA) using extreme-phenotype genome-wide association study (XP-GWAS) for significance test. Local tandem duplication in the Cr4 region was further supported by syntenic analysis using the sugar pine genome sequence. Significant gene divergences have been observed in the NLR family, revealing that diversifying selection pressures are relatively higher in local duplicated genes. Most genes showed similar expression patterns at low levels, but some were affected by genetic background related to disease resistance. Evidence from fine genetic dissection, evolutionary analysis, and expression profiling suggests that two NLR genes are the most promising candidates for Cr4 against WPBR.

Conclusion

This study provides fundamental insights into genetic architecture of the Cr4 locus as well as a set of NLR variants for marker-assisted selection in limber pine breeding. Novel NLR genes were identified at the Cr4 locus and the Cr4 candidates will aid deployment of this R gene in combination with other major/minor genes in the limber pine breeding program.
The role of strigolactones in P deficiency induced transcriptional changes in tomato roots
Authors: Wang Yanting , Duran Hernando G. Suárez , van Haarst Jan C. , Schijlen Elio G.W.M , Ruyter-Spira Carolien , Medema Marnix H. , Dong Lemeng , Bouwmeester Harro J.
Published: July 2021

Background

Phosphorus (P) is an essential macronutrient for plant growth and development. Upon P shortage, plant responds with massive reprogramming of transcription, the Phosphate Starvation Response (PSR). In parallel, the production of strigolactones (SLs)—a class of plant hormones that regulates plant development and rhizosphere signaling molecules—increases. It is unclear, however, what the functional link is between these two processes. In this study, using tomato as a model, RNAseq was used to evaluate the time-resolved changes in gene expression in the roots upon P starvation and, using a tomato CAROTENOID CLEAVAGE DIOXYGENASES 8 (CCD8) RNAi line, what the role of SLs is in this.

Results

Gene ontology (GO)-term enrichment and KEGG analysis of the genes regulated by P starvation and P replenishment revealed that metabolism is an important component of the P starvation response that is aimed at P homeostasis, with large changes occurring in glyco-and galactolipid and carbohydrate metabolism, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, including terpenoids and polyketides, glycan biosynthesis and metabolism, and amino acid metabolism. In the CCD8 RNAi line about 96% of the PSR genes was less affected than in wild-type (WT) tomato. For example, phospholipid biosynthesis was suppressed by P starvation, while the degradation of phospholipids and biosynthesis of substitute lipids such as sulfolipids and galactolipids were induced by P starvation. Around two thirds of the corresponding transcriptional changes depend on the presence of SLs. Other biosynthesis pathways are also reprogrammed under P starvation, such as phenylpropanoid and carotenoid biosynthesis, pantothenate and CoA, lysine and alkaloids, and this also partially depends on SLs. Additionally, some plant hormone biosynthetic pathways were affected by P starvation and also here, SLs are required for many of the changes (more than two thirds for Gibberellins and around one third for Abscisic acid) in the gene expression.

Conclusions

Our analysis shows that SLs are not just the end product of the PSR in plants (the signals secreted by plants into the rhizosphere), but also play a major role in the regulation of the PSR (as plant hormone).
Characteristics and practices of school-based cluster randomised controlled trials for improving health outcomes in pupils in the United Kingdom: a methodological systematic review
Authors: Parker Kitty , Nunns Michael , Xiao ZhiMin , Ford Tamsin , Ukoumunne Obioha C.
Published: July 2021

Background

Cluster randomised trials (CRTs) are increasingly used to evaluate non-pharmacological interventions for improving child health. Although methodological challenges of CRTs are well documented, the characteristics of school-based CRTs with pupil health outcomes have not been systematically described. Our objective was to describe methodological characteristics of these studies in the United Kingdom (UK).

Methods

MEDLINE was systematically searched from inception to 30th June 2020. Included studies used the CRT design in schools and measured primary outcomes on pupils. Study characteristics were described using descriptive statistics.

Results

Of 3138 articles identified, 64 were included. CRTs with pupil health outcomes have been increasingly used in the UK school setting since the earliest included paper was published in 1993; 37 (58%) studies were published after 2010. Of the 44 studies that reported information, 93% included state-funded schools. Thirty six (56%) were exclusively in primary schools and 24 (38%) exclusively in secondary schools. Schools were randomised in 56 studies, classrooms in 6 studies, and year groups in 2 studies. Eighty percent of studies used restricted randomisation to balance cluster-level characteristics between trial arms, but few provided justification for their choice of balancing factors. Interventions covered 11 different health areas; 53 (83%) included components that were necessarily administered to entire clusters. The median (interquartile range) number of clusters and pupils recruited was 31.5 (21 to 50) and 1308 (604 to 3201), respectively. In half the studies, at least one cluster dropped out. Only 26 (41%) studies reported the intra-cluster correlation coefficient (ICC) of the primary outcome from the analysis; this was often markedly different to the assumed ICC in the sample size calculation. The median (range) ICC for school clusters was 0.028 (0.0005 to 0.21).

Conclusions

The increasing pool of school-based CRTs examining pupil health outcomes provides methodological knowledge and highlights design challenges. Data from these studies should be used to identify the best school-level characteristics for balancing the randomisation. Better information on the ICC of pupil health outcomes is required to aid the planning of future CRTs. Improved reporting of the recruitment process will help to identify barriers to obtaining representative samples of schools.
Integrating clinician support with intervention design as part of a programme testing stratified care for musculoskeletal pain in general practice
Authors: Protheroe Joanne , Saunders Benjamin , Hill Jonathan C. , Chudyk Adrian , Foster Nadine E. , Bartlam Bernadette , Wathall Simon , Cooper Vincent
Published: July 2021

Background

Stratified care involves subgrouping patients based on key characteristics, e.g. prognostic risk, and matching these subgroups to early treatment options. The STarT-MSK programme developed and tested a new stratified primary care intervention for patients with common musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions in general practice. Stratified care involves changing General Practitioners’ (GPs) behaviour, away from the current ‘stepped’ care approach to identifying early treatment options matched to patients’ risk of persistent pain. Changing healthcare practice is challenging, and to aid the successful delivery of stratified care, education and support for GPs was required. This paper details the iterative development of a clinician support package throughout the lifespan of the programme, to support GPs in delivering the stratified care intervention. We argue that clinician support is a crucial aspect of the intervention itself, which is often overlooked.

Methods

Qualitative research with patients and GPs identified barriers and facilitators to the adoption of stratified care, which were mapped onto the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Identified domains were ‘translated’ into an educational paradigm, and an initial version of the support package developed. This was further refined following a feasibility and pilot RCT, and a finalised support package was developed for the main RCT.

Results

The clinician support package comprised face-to-face sessions combining adult-learning principles with behaviour change theory in a multimethod approach, which included group discussion, simulated consultations, patient vignettes and model consultation videos. Structured support for GPs was crucial to facilitate fidelity and, ultimately, a successful trial. Clinician support is a two-way process– the study team can learn from and adapt to specific local factors and issues not previously identified. The support from senior clinicians was required to ensure ‘buy in’. Monitoring of GP performance, provision of regular feedback and remedial support are important aspects of effective clinician support.

Conclusion

Designing effective clinician support from the onset of trial intervention design, in an evidence-based, theory-informed manner, is crucial to encourage active engagement and intervention fidelity within the trial, enabling the delivery of a robust and reliable proof-of-principle trial. We offer practical recommendations for future general practice interventions.
Cost-effectiveness of group-based exercise to prevent falls in elderly community-dwelling people
Authors: Scheckel Benjamin , Stock Stephanie , Müller Dirk
Published: July 2021

Background

Clinical studies indicate that strength-balance training for active fall prevention can prevent fractures in older people. The present modelling study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of fall prevention exercise (FPE) provided to independently living older people compared to no intervention in Germany.

Method

We designed a Markov model to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of a group-based FPE-program provided to independently living people ≥75 years from the perspective of the German statutory health insurance (SHI). Input data was obtained from public databases, clinical trials and official statistics. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was presented as costs per avoided hip fracture. Additionally, we performed deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses and, estimated monetary consequences for the SHI in a budget impact analysis (BIA).

Results

For women, the costs per hip fracture avoided amounted to €52,864 (men: €169,805). Results of deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the results. According to the BIA, for the reimbursement of FPE additional costs of €3.0 million (women) and €7.8 million (men) are expected for the SHI.

Conclusions

Group-based FPE appears to be no cost-effective option to prevent fall-related hip fractures in independently living elderly. To allow a more comprehensive statement on the cost effectiveness of FPE fracture types other than hip should be increasingly evaluated in clinical trials.
Inner diameters of the normal carotid arteries measured using three-dimensional digital subtraction catheter angiography: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Tan Qingjing , Qin Chao , Yang Junwei , Wang Tianbao , Lin Haohai , Lin Cuiting , Chen Xiangren
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To obtain normal ranges for the inner diameters of the carotid arteries.

Methods

This retrospective analysis included consecutive patients with disease-free carotid arteries who had undergone 3D-DSA at two hospitals in Nanning, Guangxi, between March 2013 and March 2018. Demographic and clinical characteristics, including Essen Stroke Risk Score (ESRS), were extracted from the medical records. The 3D-DSA data were used to calculate the inner diameters of the carotid arteries.

Results

The analysis included 1182 patients (837 males) aged 58.81 ± 11.02 years. The inner diameters of the proximal carotid sinus (CS), CS bulge, distal CS, and common carotid artery (CCA) were larger on the right than on the left (P < 0.05). The inner diameters of the proximal CS, CS bulge, distal CS, and CCA on both sides were larger for males than females (P < 0.05). The inner diameters of the proximal CS, CS bulge, and distal CS on both sides were smaller for patients aged > 65 years than for patients aged ≤ 55 years (P < 0.05). Right CCA inner diameter did not vary with age, whereas left CCA inner diameter was larger for patients aged > 55 years than for patients aged ≤ 45 years (P < 0.05). The inner diameters of the proximal CS, CS bulge, and distal CS on both sides were smaller for patients with ESRS ≥ 3 than those with ESRS < 3 (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study provides reference values for the internal diameters of normal carotid arteries. Carotid artery diameters varied with side, sex, and age.
Integration of RNA-Seq and proteomics data identifies glioblastoma multiforme surfaceome signature
Authors: Syafruddin Saiful Effendi , Nazarie Wan Fahmi Wan Mohamad , Moidu Nurshahirah Ashikin , Soon Bee Hong , Mohtar M. Aiman
Published: July 2021

Background

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a highly lethal, stage IV brain tumour with a prevalence of approximately 2 per 10,000 people globally. The cell surface proteins or surfaceome serve as information gateway in many oncogenic signalling pathways and are important in modulating cancer phenotypes. Dysregulation in surfaceome expression and activity have been shown to promote tumorigenesis. The expression of GBM surfaceome is a case in point; OMICS screening in a cell-based system identified that this sub-proteome is largely perturbed in GBM. Additionally, since these cell surface proteins have ‘direct’ access to drugs, they are appealing targets for cancer therapy. However, a comprehensive GBM surfaceome landscape has not been fully defined yet. Thus, this study aimed to define GBM-associated surfaceome genes and identify key cell-surface genes that could potentially be developed as novel GBM biomarkers for therapeutic purposes.

Methods

We integrated the RNA-Seq data from TCGA GBM (n = 166) and GTEx normal brain cortex (n = 408) databases to identify the significantly dysregulated surfaceome in GBM. This was followed by an integrative analysis that combines transcriptomics, proteomics and protein-protein interaction network data to prioritize the high-confidence GBM surfaceome signature.

Results

Of the 2381 significantly dysregulated genes in GBM, 395 genes were classified as surfaceome. Via the integrative analysis, we identified 6 high-confidence GBM molecular signature, HLA-DRA, CD44, SLC1A5, EGFR, ITGB2, PTPRJ, which were significantly upregulated in GBM. The expression of these genes was validated in an independent transcriptomics database, which confirmed their upregulated expression in GBM. Importantly, high expression of CD44, PTPRJ and HLA-DRA is significantly associated with poor disease-free survival. Last, using the Drugbank database, we identified several clinically-approved drugs targeting the GBM molecular signature suggesting potential drug repurposing.

Conclusions

In summary, we identified and highlighted the key GBM surface-enriched repertoires that could be biologically relevant in supporting GBM pathogenesis. These genes could be further interrogated experimentally in future studies that could lead to efficient diagnostic/prognostic markers or potential treatment options for GBM.
Meta-analysis and indirect treatment comparison of modified FOLFIRINOX and gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel as first-line chemotherapy in advanced pancreatic cancer
Authors: Chen Jiayuan , Hua Qingling , Wang Haihong , Zhang Dejun , Zhao Lei , Yu Dandan , Pi Guoliang , Zhang Tao , Lin Zhenyu
Published: July 2021

Background

Modified FOLFIRINOX and gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel (GEM-NAB) have been recommended as first-line therapies for advanced pancreatic cancer (PC). Due to the lack of evidence to directly compare them, we conducted this network meta-analysis to indirectly compare the effectiveness and toxicity of modified FOLFIRINOX and GEM-NAB.

Methods

The eligible retrospective studies on treatments related to modified FOLFIRINOX and GEM-NAB up to 4 April 2020 were searched and assessed. We used the frequentist model to analyze the survival and toxicity data between different treatments. Pooled analysis for overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR) and events of toxicity were analyzed in this study.

Results

Twenty-two studies were involved in this network meta-analysis. The comparisons on OS and PFS showed that modified FOLFIRINOX and GEM-NAB had similar treatment efficacy (OS: 1.13; 95% CI: 0.78–1.63; PFS: HR: 1.19; 95% CI: 0.85–1.67). GEM-NAB was more effective than modified FOLFIRINOX based on the result of ORR (RR: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.04–1.96). Moreover, our analysis showed a similar toxicity profile between modified FOLFIRINOX and GEM-NAB.

Conclusions

The current evidence showed that modified FOLFIRINOX and GEM-NAB were similar in survival and toxicity. Many factors should be considered for in the formulation of optimal treatment, and our meta-analysis could provide some guidance to treatment selection in the first-line setting for advanced PC.
Improving the catalytic characteristics of phenolic acid decarboxylase from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens by the engineering of N-terminus and C-terminus
Authors: Li Qin , Xia Ying , Zhao Ting , Gong Yuanyuan , Fang Shangling , Chen Maobin
Published: July 2021

Background

4-vinylphenols produced by phenolic acid degradation catalyzed by phenolic acid decarboxylase can be used in food additives as well as flavor and fragrance industry. Improving the catalytic characters of phenolic acid decarboxylase is of great significance to enhance its practical application.

Results

A phenolic acid decarboxylase (P-WT) was created fromBacillus amyloliquefaciensZJH-01. Mutants such as P-C, P-N, P-m1, P-m2, P-Nm1, and P-Nm2 were constructed by site-directed mutagenesis of P-WT. P-C showed better substrate affinities and higher turnover rates than P-WT for p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, and sinapic acid; however, P-N had reduced affinity toward p-coumaric acid. The extension of the C-terminus increased its acid resistance, whereas the extension of the N-terminus contributed to the alkali resistance and heat resistance. The affinity of P-m1 to four substrates and that of P-m2 to p-coumaric acid and ferulic acid were greatly improved. However, the affinity of P-Nm2 to four phenolic acids was greatly reduced. The residual enzyme activities of P-Nm1 and P-Nm2 considerably improved compared with those of P-m1 and P-m2 after incubation at 50 °C for 60 min.

Conclusions

The extension of the N-terminus may be more conducive to the combination of the binding cavity with the substrate in an alkaline environment and may make its structure more stable.