bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting dormant tumor cells to prevent cancer recurrence
Authors: Damen Maartje P. F. , van Rheenen Jacco , Scheele Colinda L. G. J.
Published: November 2020

Over the years, developments in oncology led to significantly improved clinical outcome for cancer patients. However, cancer recurrence after initial treatment response still poses a major challenge, as it often involves more aggressive, metastatic disease. The presence of dormant cancer cells is associated with recurrence, metastasis, and poor clinical outcome, suggesting that these cells may play a crucial role in the process of disease relapse. Cancer cell dormancy typically presents as growth arrest while retaining proliferative capacity and can be induced or reversed by a wide array of cell‐intrinsic and cell‐extrinsic factors. Conventional therapies preferentially target fast‐dividing cells, leaving dormant cancer cells largely insensitive to these treatments. In this review, we discuss the role of dormant cancer cells in cancer recurrence and highlight how novel therapy strategies based on cell‐cycle modulation, modifications of existing drugs, or enhanced drug‐delivery vehicles may be used to specifically target this subpopulation of tumor cells, and thereby have the potential to prevent disease recurrence.
Conservation lost: host‐pathogen battles drive diversification and expansion of gene families
Authors: Lažetić Vladimir , Troemel Emily R.
Published: November 2020

One of the strongest drivers in evolution is the struggle to survive a host–pathogen battle. This pressure selects for diversity among the factors directly involved in this battle, including virulence factors deployed by pathogens, their corresponding host targets, and host immune factors. A logical outcome of this diversification is that over time, the sequence of many immune factors will not be evolutionarily conserved across a broad range of species. Thus, while universal sequence conservation is often hailed as the hallmark of the importance of a particular gene, the immune system does not necessarily play by these rules when defending against co‐evolving pathogens. This loss of sequence conservation is in contrast to many signaling pathways in development and basic cell biology that are not targeted by pathogens. In addition to diversification, another consequence of host–pathogen battles can be an amplification in gene number, thus leading to large gene families that have sequence relatively specific to a particular strain, species, or clade. Here we highlight this general theme across a variety of pathogen virulence factors and host immune factors. We summarize the wide range and number across species of these expanded, lineage‐specific host–pathogen factors including ubiquitin ligases, nucleotide‐binding leucine‐rich repeat receptors, GTPases, and proteins without obvious biochemical function but that nonetheless play key roles in immunity.
Diadromous fish modified timing of upstream migration over the last 30 years in France
Authors: Legrand Marion , Briand Cédric , Buisson Laëtitia , Besse Timothée , Artur Gwenaël , Azam Didier , Baisez Aurore , Barracou David , Bourré Nicolas , Carry Laurent , Caudal Anne‐Laure , Corre Jérémie , Croguennec Eric , Der Mikaélian Sophie , Josset Quentin , Le Gurun Laëtitia , Schaeffer Frédéric , Toussaint Romuald , Laffaille Pascal
Published: November 2020

Numerous studies have documented a change in the phenology of migration of diadromous fish in response to climate change. Only few studies have, however, been conducted simultaneously for multiple species and at a large spatial scale.

We investigated the change in the timing of upstream migration of diadromous fish species in France. We used an original dataset collected from 40 fish‐counting devices in 28 French rivers over 10–30 years for five diadromous taxa: Alosa spp., Anguilla anguilla (with a distinction between glass eel and yellow eel), Petromyzon marinus, Salmo salar, and Salmo trutta.

Except for glass eel, we found that taxa shifted their migration for earlier arrival dates. This result is consistent with numerous studies reporting advancement of the phenology of species life‐events. On average, we highlighted a phenological change of −2.3 days per decade (min = −0.2, max = −3.7). Moreover, the North Atlantic Oscillation Index, sea surface temperature, air temperature, and river discharge were found to explain the timing of upstream migration of diadromous fish taxa, highlighting the importance of factors acting at different spatial scales.

Given the important phenological changes observed in our study and more widely in the scientific literature, we recommend that managers incorporate these changes into the management rules; in particular, in the case of dams whose migratory transparency (i.e. the possibility for the fishes to cross the dam) is ensured by adaptive water management and gate operations.

This study benefited from large‐scale monitoring of migratory phenology of multiple species and environmental variables. These monitoring data are valuable and could allow better predictive modelling of the response of species to climate change.
Acid‐etched Pt/Al‐MCM‐41 catalysts for fuel production by one‐step hydrotreatment of Jatropha oil
Authors: Zhang Wenjie , Chen Yubao , Zhuang Shiyun , Li Ruifan , Hu Liangdong
Published: November 2020

Effective catalysts are indispensable for the preparation of fuel components from vegetable oils via the one‐step hydrothermal method. In this study, the Pt/MCM‐41 catalysts were prepared by etching with sulfuric acid, citric acid, or hydrochloric acid. The performance of the obtained Pt/MCM‐41 catalysts for the hydrothermal treatment of vegetable oils was evaluated in a fixed‐bed reactor using Jatropha oil as a model raw material (temperature = 360°C, liquid hourly space velocity = 1 h−1, hydrogen–oil ratio = 1000, and hydrogen pressure = 4 MPa). The modified catalysts were characterized using X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis, X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry, temperature‐programmed desorption of NH3, CO chemisorption, and pyridine adsorption infrared spectroscopy, respectively. Furthermore, the selectivity of various fuel components, including C8–C16 alkanes, C8–C16 iso‐alkanes, C8–C16 arenes, and C17–C18 alkanes, were analyzed based on the catalyst characteristics. Acid etching was found to decrease the surface area of Al‐MCM‐41 but increase the amount of acid sites, and among these acids, citric acid was proved as the priority additives, with better catalytic performance. Moreover, this catalyst exhibited the best conversion and the highest C8–C16 and C17–C18 selectivities.
Potential of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) for paired phytoremediation and bioenergy production
Authors: Rheay Hanah T. , Omondi Emmanuel C. , Brewer Catherine E.
Published: November 2020

Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is a multi‐use crop that has been investigated for its potential use in phytoremediation of heavy metals, radionuclides, and organic contaminants, and as a feedstock for bioenergy production. A review of research literature indicates that hemp is a suitable crop for phytoremediation, and a competitive option for bioenergy. Coupling phytoremediation and bioenergy production from a single hemp crop is a potential solution to overcoming the economic constraints of phytoremediation projects. The current challenge is ensuring that the extracted contaminants are not introduced into the consumer marketplace. After several decades of limited research on hemp in the United States, the purpose of this review is to identify the knowledge available for hemp applications in phytoremediation or in production of bioenergy, and if and how those two purposes have been combined. The literature shows that hemp growth has been demonstrated successfully at the field scale for phytoremediation and in several bioenergy conversion technologies. Little is known about the fate of contaminants during hemp growth or during post‐harvest processing, especially the relationships between hemp genetics, metabolomics, and contaminant partitioning. Complicating the understanding is the expectation that contaminant fate will be dependent on the contaminant type, the concentration in the material, and the processing methods. Before hemp from phytoremediation applications can be used for bioenergy, the fractionation of heavy metals, radionuclides, and/or organic compounds during transesterification, anaerobic digestion, fermentation, and/or combustion of hemp must be evaluated.
HIV‐associated neurocognitive impairment in stable people living with HIV on ART in rural Tanzania
Authors: Sanmartí M , Meyer AC , Jaen A , Robertson K , Tan N , Mapesi H , Samson L , Ndaki R , Battegay M , Tanner M , Weisser M , Dalmau D , Letang E ,   the KIULARCO Group
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Few studies have assessed cognitive impairment among healthy people living with HIV (PLWH) who are stable on antiretroviral treatment (ART) in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study among a random sample of stable adult PLWH from rural Tanzania on ART for more than 1 year and without immunological failure or pre‐existing neurological disease. We evaluated the prevalence and risk factors for neurocognitive impairment (NCI), assessed through neuropsychological tests, functional and depression questionnaires and defined as a mean Z‐score ≤ −1 in two or more cognitive domains.

Results

Among 243 participants [median age = 44.3 years (interquartile range: 36–52] and 71% female] we found a rate of NCI of 19.3% (95% confidence interval: 14.8–24.8%). Memory and psychomotor domains demonstrated the highest impairment. Independent predictors of NCI were age and self‐reported alcohol use. Other classical risk factors were not associated with HIV‐associated NCI.

Conclusion

Despite effective ART roll‐out, NCI remained a prevalent condition in this healthy rural Tanzanian population of PLWH on ART. Age and alcohol use were key risk factors.
Properties of TiN–Al2O3–TiCN–TiN, TiAlN, and DLC‐coated Ti(C,N)‐based cermets and their wear behaviors during dry cutting of 7075 aluminum alloys
Authors: Liu Junbo , Xiong Ji , Zhou Li , Guo Zhixing , Wen Huiting , You Qianbing , Li Xiangrong , Liu Jian , Zhao Wu
Published: November 2020

In the work, TiAlN for physical vapor deposition (PVD), multilayer TiN‐Al2O3‐TiCN‐TiN for chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and diamond‐like carbon (DLC) for plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) were deposited on the cermet inserts. Characteristics and wear behaviors of the three coated cermets during dry cutting of 7075 aluminum alloys were observed. The results show that TiN‐Al2O3‐TiCN‐TiN coatings have highest adhesion strength and hardness. At the cutting speed of 1100 r/min, the depth of 0.2 mm, and the feed rate of 0.1 mm/r, the three coated inserts show the best wear‐resistant properties. In this case, TiN/Al2O3/TiCN/TiN shows the worst wear‐resistant properties (value of the flank wear [VBB] = 0.062 mm), while DLC coatings show the most excellent wear‐resistant properties (VBB = 0.046 mm). During the cutting of aluminum alloys, which have high plasticity and low melting point, adhesive wear dominate on the flank of the inserts. The thickest coating of TiN/Al2O3/TiCN/TiN results in the bluntest cutting edge, which form the most serious adhesive worn zone. For the TiAlN and DLC coatings, due to a smaller cutting force, the two coatings have much better wear resistance. Further, the self‐lubricating properties of DLC show excellent effect on protecting the inserts. Thus, the DLC‐coated cermets have the best wear‐resistant properties. Further, the TiAlN‐coated cermets have the widest wear‐affected zone while the DLC coating has the narrowest.
Microstructural evolution and interfacial reactions between Ti and ZrO2/CaTiO3 composites
Authors: Lu Ming‐Wei , Lin Kun–Lin , Lin Chien‐Cheng
Published: November 2020

Various proportions of ZrO2/CaTiO3 powders were mixed and hot pressed at 1500°C/30 min for Ti casting. The hot‐pressed ZrO2/CaTiO3 composites were reacted with pure Ti at 1700°C/10 min in Ar. The interfacial reaction between Ti and ZrO2/CaTiO3 composites was investigated through X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The ZrO2/CaTiO3 composites with less than 10 vol.%, CaTiO3, and a minor amount of residual TiO2 were found. When the content of ZrO2 was increased to larger than 10 vol.%, two Ca2Zr5Ti2O16 and CaZrTi2O7 phases appeared in the composites. The amount of CaTiO3 and CaZrTi2O7 in the composites gradually decreased as the amount of ZrO2 increased. When Ti came in contact with ZrO2/CaTiO3 composites with less than 10 vol.% ZrO2, the resulting eutectic reaction produced a liquid phase and induced melting. When ZrO2 was increased to more than 30 vol.% in the composites, Ca2Zr5Ti2O16 and CaZrTi2O7 changed completely to CaZrO3, Ti2O, CaO, and ZrO2. With more than 30 vol.% ZrO2, no other reaction phases occurred in the Ti side after contact with the ZrO2/CaTiO3 composites, which is conducive for producing ceramic composites for Ti casting applications.
Discrimination the geographical origin of Yanchi Tan Lamb with different muscle sections by stable isotopic ratios and elemental profiles
Authors: Liu Hongyan , Qin Yuchang , Ma Qing , Zhao Qingyu , Guo Xiaoqing , Ma Lina , Gou Chunlin , Xia Yu , Gan Ren‐You , Zhang Junmin
Published: November 2020

In the study, lamb, feed and soil samples were collected from three regions of China in the year 2017 and 2018. The δ13C and δ15N values in lamb (defatted dry mass and lipids) and grass and the contents of nine elements in lamb, grass and soil were determined. The results indicated that except for Fe, Zn and Rb, most variables of lamb showed significant differences among two or three regions, and the contents of Fe, Sr and Cs showed significant differences between two years, and the contents of Cu and Zn showed significant differences among different muscle sections. Besides, significant correlations were found for δ13C between defatted lamb and lipid (r2 = 0.973, P < 0.05) and for the element contents between lamb and soil. Finally, four key variables δ13C, δ15N, Sr and Mo were selected through stepwise canonical discriminant analysis with the cross‐validation correct classification rate of 99.1%.
Diagnostic and prognostic utility of WBC counts and cell population data in patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Naoum Flávio Augusto , Ruiz Adriana Laridondo Zucareli , Martin Fernando Henrique de Oliveira , Brito Tayra Hostalacio Gomes , Hassem Vitoria , Oliveira Maria Gabriela de Lucca
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Early diagnosis and identification of potential critical cases for timely treatment are crucial for COVID‐19 patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the diagnostic and prognostic implications of WBC and cell population data (CPD) abnormalities related to COVID‐19 at disease onset.

Methods

Baseline WBC counts and CPD data were analyzed in one hundred COVID‐19 patients presenting to emergency department and subsequently discharged (n=49), admitted (n=51) or deceased (n=22), and in 47 healthy subjects.

Results

Lymphopenia and eosinopenia were observed in all COVID‐19 patients, with more intensity in the admitted and deceased groups, that also presented increased WBC and neutrophil counts. On CPD analysis, COVID‐19 was associated with increased volume of neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes, whereas conductivity was decreased for neutrophils and increased for lymphocytes. The ROC curve analysis showed good performance for lymphocyte counts in predicting COVID‐19 diagnosis (AUC=0.858), for neutrophil counts in predicting admission for COVID‐19 (AUC=0.744) and for monocytes volume in predicting COVID‐19 diagnosis (AUC=0.837).

Conclusion

WBC counts and CPD parameters at disease onset in COVID‐19 patients can improve diagnostic characterization and aid in the discrimination between severe and nonsevere presentations.
High‐temperature persistent luminescence and visual dual‐emitting optical temperature sensing in self‐activated CaNb2O6: Tb3+ phosphor
Authors: Wei Zhiting , Chen Wenbo , Wang Ziqi , Li Na , Zhang Pengfei , Zhang Meiguang , Zhao Lei , Qiang Qinping
Published: November 2020

The long persistent luminescence (PersL) and color adjustable properties in high‐temperature environment are of great significance for luminescent materials in the fields of multiple anti‐counterfeiting, biological imaging, and optical temperature sensing (OTS). In this work, a series of self‐activated CaNb2O6 (CNO): Tb3+ phosphors have been successfully synthesized by solid‐state reaction route, the OTS, and temperature‐dependent PersL of these phosphors is carried out and investigated in detail. Relying on the energy transfer from host to the activator Tb3+ ion, the visual color‐tunable emissions from blue to green were detected with the increase of temperature and the maximum absolute and relative sensitivities reach 0.955% K‐1 and 1.243% K‐1. Moreover, the temperature‐dependent PersL characteristics were investigated systematically, and the initial brightness and the lasting time all reach a maximum value at 323 K in the representative CNO: 1%Tb3+ sample. All the results show that the high‐temperature persistent phosphor has potential applications in OTS and anti‐counterfeiting field.
Comparative efficacy of different types of antihypertensive drugs in reversing left ventricular hypertrophy as determined with echocardiography in hypertensive patients: A network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Chen Jian‐Shu , Pei Ying , Li Cai‐e , Li Yin‐ning , Wang Qiong‐ying , Yu Jing
Published: November 2020

Reversing left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) can reduce the incidence of adverse cardiovascular events. However, there is no clear superiority–inferiority differentiation between angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), beta‐blockers (BB), calcium channel blockers (CCB), and diuretics in reversing LVH in hypertensive patients. To provide further evidence for choosing the optimal antihypertensive drug for improving LVH, we performed a network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) based on the Cochrane library database, Embase, and Pubmed, and identified 49 studies involving 5402 patients that were eligible for inclusion. It was found that ARB could improve LVH in hypertensive patients more effectively than CCB (MD −4.07, 95%CI −8.03 to −0.24) and BB (MD −4.57, 95%CI −8.07 to −1.12). Matched comparison of renin‐angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi) showed that the effect of ACEI in reducing left ventricular mass index (LVMi) was not effective as that of ARB (MD −3.72, 95%CI −7.52 to −0.11). The surface under the cumulative ranking for each intervention indicated that the use of ARB was more effective among the different types of antihypertensive drugs (97%). This network meta‐analysis revealed that the use of ARB in antihypertensive therapy could achieve better efficacy in reversing LVH in hypertensive patients.
High prevalence of masked uncontrolled morning hypertension in elderly non‐valvular atrial fibrillation patients: Home blood pressure substudy of the ANAFIE Registry
Authors: Kario Kazuomi , Hasebe Naoyuki , Okumura Ken , Yamashita Takeshi , Akao Masaharu , Atarashi Hirotsugu , Ikeda Takanori , Koretsune Yukihiro , Shimizu Wataru , Tsutsui Hiroyuki , Toyoda Kazunori , Hirayama Atsushi , Yasaka Masahiro , Yamaguchi Takenori , Teramukai Satoshi , Kimura Tetsuya , Kaburagi Jumpei , Takita Atsushi , Inoue Hiroshi
Published: November 2020

In the ANAFIE Registry home blood pressure subcohort, we evaluated 5204 patients aged ≥75 years with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) to assess blood pressure (BP) control, prevalence of masked hypertension, and anticoagulant use. Mean clinic (C) and home (H) systolic/diastolic BP(SBP/DBP) was 128.5/71.3 and 127.7/72.6 mm Hg, respectively. Overall, 77.5% of patients had hypertension; of these, 27.7%, 13.4%, 23.4%, and 35.6% had well‐controlled, white coat, masked, and sustained hypertension, respectively. Masked hypertension prevalence increased with diabetes, decreased renal function, age ≥80 years, current smoker status, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. By morning/evening average, 59.0% of patients had mean H‐SBP ≥ 125 mm Hg; 48.9% had mean C‐SBP ≥ 130 mm Hg. Early morning hypertension (morning H‐SBP ≥ 125 mm Hg) was found in 65.9% of patients. Although 51.1% of patients had well‐controlled C‐SBP, 52.5% of these had uncontrolled morning H‐SBP. In elderly NVAF patients, morning H‐BP was poorly controlled, and masked uncontrolled morning hypertension remains significant.
Hypertension and stroke in Asia: A comprehensive review from HOPE Asia
Authors: Turana Yuda , Tengkawan Jeslyn , Chia Yook Chin , Nathaniel Michael , Wang Ji‐Guang , Sukonthasarn Apichard , Chen Chen‐Huan , Minh Huynh Van , Buranakitjaroen Peera , Shin Jinho , Siddique Saulat , Nailes Jennifer M. , Park Sungha , Teo Boon Wee , Sison Jorge , Ann Soenarta Arieska , Hoshide Satoshi , Tay Jam Chin , Prasad Sogunuru Guru , Zhang Yuqing , Verma Narsingh , Wang Tzung‐Dau , Kario Kazuomi ,   the HOPE Asia Network
Published: November 2020

Stroke is the primary cause of disability and vascular death worldwide, including Asia. Asian characteristics that differ from the West lead to higher stroke incidence. Stroke epidemiology studies in Asia have shown varying levels of mortality, incidence, prevalence, and burden of disease. Hypertension is the most prevalent risk factor found in Asia. Besides ethnicity that is associated with stroke incidence, both systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and blood pressure variability are positively correlated with stroke incidence. Post‐stroke cognitive impairment is one of the sequelae that affect one‐third of stroke survivors and has become a significant public health concern that is often neglected despite its increasing prevalence. Therefore, it is very important to prevent recurrence by treating stroke optimally and effectively. Increasing awareness and treatment adherence to hypertension, the leading risk factor for stroke, became the main goal in several countries in Asia.
The effects of foot reflexology on blood pressure and heart rate: A randomized clinical trial in stage‐2 hypertensive patients
Authors: Kotruchin Praew , Imoun Supap , Mitsungnern Thapanawong , Aountrai Patcharin , Domthaisong Maneenuch , Kario Kazuomi
Published: November 2020

Hypertension (HT) is a prominent cardiovascular risk factor. Although there are various pharmacological treatment choices for this condition, many patients fail to adhere to them, making non‐pharmacological options attractive alternatives. Foot reflexology has been proven to decrease blood pressure (BP), but data are limited in patients with stage‐2 HT. We conducted a randomized clinical trial to examine the effectiveness of foot reflexology in reducing BP and heart rate (HR). Stage‐2 HT patients were enrolled and randomized into the intervention and the control groups (n = 47, each), the former of which underwent foot reflexology during a follow‐up visit. Office BP and HR were measured before and at 15 and 30 min after the procedure in the intervention group and after resting in the control group. In the intervention group, systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), and HR at 15 min were significantly lower than at baseline: −3.29 mm Hg (95%CI; −5.64 to −0.93), −1.71 mm Hg (95%CI; −3.11 to −0.32), and −1.71 beats per min (bpm; 95%CI; −2.88 to −0.54), respectively. Similar trends were also observed at 30 min. However, when compared with the control group, only the reduction in HR was significant (−4.96 bpm; 95%CI, −9.63 to −0.28). We conclude that foot reflexology was effective in reducing HR in stage‐2 HT patients and partially effective in reducing BP.
Imaging the eye and its relevance to diabetes care
Authors: Quinn Nicola , Jenkins Alicia , Ryan Chris , Januszewski Andrzej , Peto Tunde , Brazionis Laima
Published: November 2020

Diabetes is a major cause of vision loss globally, yet this devastating complication is largely preventable. Early detection and treatment of diabetic retinopathy necessitates screening. Ocular imaging is widely used clinically, both for the screening and management of diabetic retinopathy. Common eye conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts and retinal vessel thrombosis, and signs of systemic conditions, such as hypertension, are frequently revealed. As well as imaging by a skilled clinician during an eye examination, non‐ophthalmic clinicians, such as general practitioners, endocrinologists, nurses and trained health workers, can also can carry out diabetic eye screening. This process usually comprises local imaging with remote grading, mostly human grading. However, grading incorporating artificial intelligence is emerging. In a clinical research context, retinal vasculature analyses using semi‐automated software in many populations have identified associations between retinal vessel geometry, such as vessel caliber, and the risk of diabetic retinopathy and other chronic complications of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Similarly, evaluation of corneal nerves by corneal confocal microscopy is revealing diabetes‐related abnormalities, and associations with and predictive power for other chronic diabetes complications. As yet, the value of retinal vessel geometry and corneal confocal microscopy measures at an individual level is uncertain. In this article, targeting non‐ocular clinicians and researchers, we review existent and emerging ocular imaging and grading tools, including artificial intelligence, and their associations between ocular imaging findings and diabetes and its chronic complications.
Characterization of Cystathionine β‐Synthase TtCbs1 and Cysteine Synthase TtCsa1 Involved in Cysteine Biosynthesis in Tetrahymenathermophila
Authors: Lv Hongrui , Xu Jing , Bo Tao , Wang Wei
Published: November 2020

Cysteine is implicated in important biological processes. It is synthesized through two different pathways. Cystathionine β‐synthase and cystathionine γ‐lyase participate in the reverse transsulfuration pathway, while serine acetyltransferase and cysteine synthase function in the de novo pathway. Two evolutionarily related pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate‐dependent enzymes, cystathionine β‐synthase TtCBS1 (TTHERM_00558300) and cysteine synthase TtCSA1 (TTHERM_00239430), were identified from a freshwater protozoan Tetrahymena thermophila. TtCbs1 contained the N‐terminal heme binding domain, catalytic domain, and C‐terminal regulatory domain, whereas TtCsa1 consisted of two α/β domains. The catalytic core of the two enzymes is similar. TtCBS1 and TtCSA1 showed high expression levels in the vegetative growth stage and decreased during the sexual developmental stage. TtCbs1 and TtCsa1 were localized in the cytoplasm throughout different developmental stages. His‐TtCbs1 and His‐TtCsa1 were expressed and purified in vitro. TtCbs1 catalyzed the canonical reaction with the highest velocity and possessed serine sulfhydrylase activity. TtCsa1 showed cysteine synthase activity with high Km for O‐acetylserine and low Km for sulfide and also had serine sulfhydrylase activity toward serine. Both TtCbs1 and TtCsa1 catalyzed hydrogen sulfide producing. TtCBS1 knockdown and TtCSA1 knockout mutants affected cysteine and glutathione synthesis. TtCbs1 and TtCsa1 are involved in cysteine synthesis through two different pathways in T. thermophila.
Ultrasensitive detection of Listeria monocytogenes using solid‐state electrochemiluminescence biosensing based on the quenching effect of ferrocene on ruthenium pyridine
Authors: Chen Weifeng , Wu Jinsong , Li Shan , Zhang Hefan , Cui Liwei , Liu Juntao , Yao Wang
Published: November 2020

A solid‐state electrochemiluminescence (ECL) biosensing switch system based on the specific recognition of an aptamer and the destruction of pyridine ruthenium by ferrocene was successfully developed for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes detections. The switching system consisted of two principal parts, the ECL luminescent substrate and the ECL intensity switch. The ECL luminescent substrate was fabricated by attaching an aptamer of Listeria monocytogenes modified with DNA labeled with bipyridine ruthenium complementary to one end of the aptamer, and ferrocene‐labeled DNA complementary to the other end of the aptamer, to an electrode, and so act as an intensity switch. The identification reaction consisted of the specific binding of the aptamer with Listeria monocytogenes causing the labeled ferrocene to be removed from the luminescent substrate, the structural change resulting in a significant increase in the intensity of ECL due to the decreased quenching effect of ferrocene toward the ECL luminescent substrate. Accordingly, the change in ECL intensity indirectly reflected the concentration of Listeria monocytogenes in the sample. The results demonstrated that the system produced a good linear relationship over the concentration range of 1.4 × 101–1.4 × 106 CFU/ml. The present study established that this was a feasible approach for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes in milk and pork samples.
A higher protein intake at breakfast and lunch is associated with a higher total daily protein intake in older adults: a post‐hoc cross‐sectional analysis of four randomised controlled trials
Authors: Verreijen A. M. , van den Helder J. , Streppel M. T. , Rotteveel I. , Heman D. , van Dronkelaar C. , Memelink R. G. , Engberink M. F. , Visser M. , Tieland M. , Weijs P. J. M.
Published: November 2020

Background

A protein intake of 30‐40 g per meal is suggested to maximally stimulate muscle protein synthesis in older adults and could therefore contribute to the prevention of sarcopenia. Protein intake at breakfast and lunch is often low and offers a great opportunity to improve daily protein intake. Protein, however, is known for its satiating effects. Therefore, we explored the association between the amount of protein intake at breakfast and lunch and total daily protein intake in older adults.

Methods

Protein intake was assessed by a 3‐day food record in 498 community dwelling older adults (≥55 years) participating different lifestyle interventions. Linear mixed model analysis was used to examine the association between protein intake at breakfast or lunch and total daily protein intake, adjusted for sex, age, body mass index, smoking status, study and total energy intake.

Results

After adjustment for potential confounders, a 10 g higher protein intake at breakfast was associated with a 3.2 g higher total daily protein intake (P = 0.008) for males and a 4.9 g (P < 0.001) higher total daily protein intake for females. A 10 g higher protein intake at lunch was associated with a 3.7 g higher total daily protein intake (P < 0.001) for males, and a 5.8 g higher total daily protein intake (P < 0.001) for females.

Conclusions

A higher protein intake at breakfast and lunch is associated with a higher total daily protein intake in community dwelling older adults. Stimulating a higher protein intake at breakfast and lunch might represent a promising nutritional strategy to optimise the amount of protein per meal without compromising total daily protein intake.
Variability of mitochondrial energy balance across brain regions
Authors: Cheng XinPing , Vinokurov Andrey Y. , Zherebtsov Evgeniy A. , Stelmashchuk Olga A. , Angelova Plamena R. , Esteras Noemi , Abramov Andrey Y.
Published: November 2020

Brain is not homogenous and neurons from various brain regions are known to have different vulnerabilities to mitochondrial mutations and mitochondrial toxins. However, it is not clear if this vulnerability is connected to different energy metabolism in specific brain regions. Here, using live‐cell imaging, we compared mitochondrial membrane potential and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) redox balance in acute rat brain slices in different brain regions and further detailed the mitochondrial metabolism in primary neurons and astrocytes from rat cortex, midbrain and cerebellum. We have found that mitochondrial membrane potential is higher in brain slices from the hippocampus and brain stem. In primary co‐cultures, mitochondrial membrane potential in astrocytes was lower than in neurons, whereas in midbrain cells it was higher than in cortex and cerebellum. The rate of NADH production and mitochondrial NADH pool were highest in acute slices from midbrain and midbrain primary neurons and astrocytes. Although the level of adenosine tri phosphate (ATP) was similar among primary neurons and astrocytes from cortex, midbrain and cerebellum, the rate of ATP consumption was highest in midbrain cells that lead to faster neuronal and astrocytic collapse in response to inhibitors of ATP production. Thus, midbrain neurons and astrocytes have a higher metabolic rate and ATP consumption that makes them more vulnerable to energy deprivation.

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Trajectory of change in brain complement factors from neonatal to young adult humans
Authors: Sager Rachel E. H. , Walker Adam K. , Middleton Frank , Robinson Kate , Webster Maree J. , Weickert Cynthia Shannon
Published: November 2020

Immune system components also regulate synapse formation and refinement in neurodevelopment. The complement pathway, associated with cell lysis and phagocytosis, is implicated in synaptic elimination. Aberrant adolescent synaptic pruning may underpin schizophrenia onset; thus, changes in cortical complement activity during human development are of major interest. Complement is genetically linked to schizophrenia via increased C4 copy number variants, but the developmental trajectory of complement expression in the human brain is undetermined. As complement increases during periods of active synaptic engulfment in rodents, we hypothesized that complement expression would increase during postnatal development in humans, particularly during adolescence. Using human postmortem prefrontal cortex, we observed that complement activator (C1QB and C3) transcripts peaked in early neurodevelopment, and were highest in toddlers, declining in teenagers (all ANCOVAs between F = 2.41 –3.325, p = .01–0.05). We found that C4 protein was higher at 1–5 years (H = 16.378, p = .012), whereas C3 protein levels were unchanged with age. The microglial complement receptor subunit CD11b increased in mRNA early in life and peaked in the toddler brain (ANCOVA: pH, F = 4.186, p = .003). Complement inhibitors (CD46 and CD55) increased at school age, but failed to decrease like complement activators (both ANCOVAs, F > 4.4, p < .01). These data suggest the activation of complement in the human prefrontal cortex occurs between 1 and 5 years. We did not find evidence of induction of complement factors during adolescence and instead found increased or sustained levels of complement inhibitor mRNA at maturation. Dysregulation of these typical patterns of complement may predispose the brain to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism or schizophrenia.

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The necessity of patch testing in determining the causative drug of AGEP
Authors: Mofarrah Ramin , Mofarrah Ramina , Oshriehye Mostafa , Ghobadi Aski Sueshianth , Nazemi Nazanin , Nooshiravanpoor Peyman
Published: November 2020

Background

Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP)is a rare, severe skin reactionmainly caused by medications such as antibiotics, anti fungals, Calcium channel blockers and Anti malarias. Although it resolves spontaneously in most patients, systemic corticosteroids are neededin severe cases.

Aims

In order to determine the drug that is causing this condition, patch testing must be performed. Hydroxychloroquine is a medication that is used for the treatment of rheumatic and dermatologic conditions. And although it has been rarely seen to cause this reaction, we report a case of Hydroxychloroquine‐induced (HCQ) AGEP which was confirmed by Patch testing.

Patients

A woman 49 years of age with an18 month history of mild, untreated Rheumatoid Arthritis experienced an acute episode of arthritis in her right elbow. Upon going to a rheumatologist, Prednisolone 5 mg BID and HCQ 200 mg daily were administered for a 30‐day period. But after only 17 days of this treatment, the patient developed generalized erythema and painful pustular eruptions. Prednisolone dosage was changedto 7.5 mg per day andHCQ was discontinued one day afterthe appearance of eruptions. The diffuse erythema started improving a week after the patient’s hospitalization.Considering the factthat our patient was receiving multiple potentially causative medications, patch testing was necessary to distinguish the drug responsible for this reaction.

Results

After the patch testing was done, HCQ‐induced AGEP was confirmed.

Conclusions

Patch testing is the gold standard of determining the responsible drug for an AGEP reaction. It should also be kept in mind that HCQ, although rarely, can cause this condition.
On the core of economies with multilateral environmental externalities
Authors: Stamatopoulos Giorgos
Published: November 2020

We revisit the cooperative model of coalition formation in economies with environmental externalities. Motivated by recent concerns over the true behavior and incentives of key players in international negotiations over the climate and the environment, we construct a cooperative game where the members of each coalition have uncertainty over the behavior of the nonmembers, and in particular they face uncertainty over their coalition structure. As a result, a coalition assigns various probability distributions over the set of partitions the outsiders can form. We compute the payoff of each coalition under this assumption and we derive conditions under which the core of the induced cooperative game is nonempty.
SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in patients with a normal or abnormal liver
Authors: Cabibbo Giuseppe , Rizzo Giacomo Emanuele Maria , Stornello Caterina , Craxì Antonio
Published: November 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), a novel coronavirus causing coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19), with an estimated 22 million people infected worldwide so far although involving primarily the respiratory tract, has a remarkable tropism for the liver and the biliary tract. Patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and no antecedent liver disease may display evidence of cytolytic liver damage, proportional to the severity of COVID‐19 but rarely of clinical significance. The mechanism of hepatocellular injury is unclear and possibly multifactorial. The clinical impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in patients with underlying chronic liver disease, a cohort whose global size is difficult to estimate, has been assessed appropriately only recently and data are still evolving. Patients with cirrhosis are at higher risk of developing severe COVID‐19 and worse liver‐related outcomes as compared to those with non‐cirrhotic liver disease. OLT patients have an intermediate risk. Specific interventions in order to reduce the risk of transmission of infection among this high‐risk population have been outlined by international societies, together with recommendations for modified treatment and follow‐up regimens during the COVID‐19 pandemic. When a vaccine against SARS‐CoV‐2 becomes available, patients with fibrotic liver disease and those with OLT should be considered as prime targets for prophylaxis of COVID‐19, as all other highly susceptible subjects.
Pathophysiological mechanisms of liver injury in COVID‐19
Authors: Nardo Alexander D. , Schneeweiss‐Gleixner Mathias , Bakail May , Dixon Emmanuel D. , Lax Sigurd F. , Trauner Michael
Published: November 2020

The recent outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has resulted in a world‐wide pandemic. Disseminated lung injury with the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is the main cause of mortality in COVID‐19. Although liver failure does not seem to occur in the absence of pre‐existing liver disease, hepatic involvement in COVID‐19 may correlate with overall disease severity and serve as a prognostic factor for the development of ARDS. The spectrum of liver injury in COVID‐19 may range from direct infection by SARS‐CoV‐2, indirect involvement by systemic inflammation, hypoxic changes, iatrogenic causes such as drugs and ventilation to exacerbation of underlying liver disease. This concise review discusses the potential pathophysiological mechanisms for SARS‐CoV‐2 hepatic tropism as well as acute and possibly long‐term liver injury in COVID‐19.
Mutable yeast prion variants are stabilized by a defective Hsp104 chaperone
Authors: Huang Yu‐Wen , Kushnirov Vitaly V. , King Chih‐Yen
Published: November 2020

Gorkovskiy et al. observed that many [PSI+] prion isolates, obtained in yeast with the mutant Hsp104T160Mchaperone, propagate poorly in wild‐type cells and suggested that Hsp104 is part of the cellular anti‐prion system, curing many nascent [PSI+] variants. Here, we argue that the concept may require reassessment. We induced [PSI+] variants in both the wild‐type and the mutant background. Three new variants were isolated in the T160M background. They exhibited lower thermostability, possessed novel structural features, and were inherently mutable, changing to well‐characterized VH, VK, and VL variants in wild‐type cells. In contrast, VH, VK, and VL of the wild‐type background, could not change freely and were lost in the mutant, due to insufficient chaperone activity. Thus, mutant Hsp104 can impose as much restriction against emerging prion variants as the wild‐type protein. Such restriction conserved the transmutable variants in the T160M background, since new structures mis‐templated from them could not gain a foothold. We further demonstrate excess Hsp104T160Mor Hsp104∆2‐147can eliminate nearly all of the [PSI+] variants in their native background. This finding contradicts the generally held belief that Hsp104‐induced [PSI+] curing requires its N‐terminal domain, and may help settling the current contention regarding how excess Hsp104 cures [PSI+].
The Unity of Christ and the Historical Jesus: Aquinas and Locke on Personal Identity1
Authors: Stevenson Austin
Published: November 2020

Albert Schweitzer wrote that, at Chalcedon, the “doctrine of the two natures dissolved the unity of the Person, and thereby cut off the last possibility of a return to the historical Jesus.” In this article, I argue that a likely cause of this pervasive perception of Chalcedon is the reflexive deployment by modern thinkers of a Lockean concept of personhood grounded in consciousness. I argue, by way of contrast, that Thomas Aquinas’s substantial account of personhood provides greater space for historical approaches to Jesus by protecting the finite integrity of Christ’s human nature and the unity of his personhood. I conclude by highlighting an implication of this discussion for the role of metaphysics in theological reflection.
Investigation of in vitro antifungal susceptibility testing and genetic diversity of clinical isolates of Trichophyton benhamiae and Trichophyton eriotrephon in Iran
Authors: Ansari Saham , Ahmadi Bahram , Hedayati Mohammad T. , Nouripour‐Sisakht Sadegh , Taghizadeh‐Armaki Mojtaba , Fathi Mobina , Deravi Niloofar , Shokoohi Gholam‐Reza , Rezaei‐Matehkolaei Ali
Published: November 2020

Background

Trichophyton benhamiae is a zoophilic dermatophyte, known as one of the causative agents of dermatophytosis.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to explore the genotypes of T. benhamiae strains isolated from geographically different areas of Iran and also to evaluate in vitro antifungal susceptibility profile of these strains against seven antifungal drugs.

Methods

Twenty‐two strains of T. benhamiae and two strains of T. eriotrephon were isolated from patients with distinct types of dermatophytosis. DNA extraction and amplification of rDNA regions using ITS1 and ITS4 primers were conducted on the isolates. The in vitro antifungal susceptibility of posaconazole (PSC), voriconazole (VRC), itraconazole (ITC), ketoconazole (KET), caspofungin (CAS), terbinafine (TRB) and griseofulvin (GRZ) was evaluated according to CLSI M38‐A2 protocol.

Results

The multiple alignment of the ITS‐rDNA sequences of T. benhamiae indicated a mean similarity of 99.5%, with 0–3 interspecies nucleotide difference. The geometric mean (GM) values of minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum effective concentrations (MECs) across the all isolates were respectively: TRB: 0.025 mg/L, PSC: 0.032 mg/L, ITC: 0.050 mg/L and VRC: 0.059 mg/L with lower values and CAS: 0.31 mg/L, KTZ: 0.56 mg/L and GRZ: 0.76 mg/L with higher values.

Conclusion

Diverse ITS sequence types of T. benhamiae were shown in different geographical regions of Iran. The TRB, PSC and ITC were the most effective drugs against T. benhamiae strains, respectively. Furthermore, in our study, two strains of T. eriotrephon as a scarce dermatophyte species were described.
DLX6 promotes cell proliferation and survival in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liang Jun , Liu Jingang , Deng Zhaoming , Liu Zhigang , Liang Lizhong
Published: November 2020

Objective

Distal‐less homeobox 6 (DLX6) has been reported to play important roles in the development of craniofacial structures, inner ear, limb, and brain. We found in our previous investigation that DLX6 was significantly highly expressed in oral cancer tissues in The Cancer Genome Atlas database. This study aimed to explore its roles and regulation mechanism in oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Materials and methods

We analyzed the expression of DLX6 and its association with overall survival in OSCC by real‐time quantitative PCR. Besides, clone formation, proliferation, and apoptosis were detected after knocking down DLX6 and microarray analysis was performed to explore the possible regulatory mechanism.

Results

DLX6 was overexpressed in oral cancer tissues and was associated with advance tumor stage and poor prognosis. In vitro studies have shown that DLX6 promotes proliferation and inhibits cell apoptosis in oral cancer cells. Microarray analysis along with Western blotting results indicated that DLX6 significantly associated with malignant tumors and may regulate OSCC cells proliferation through EGFR‐CCND1 axis.

Conclusion

DLX6 promotes cell proliferation and suppresses cell apoptosis in oral cancer cells. EGFR‐CCND1 pathway might be the potential mechanism participating in the regulating axis.
Maternal antibiotic exposure during pregnancy and the risk of allergic diseases in childhood: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhong Yongjin , Zhang Yuheng , Wang Yan , Huang Ruijie
Published: November 2020

Background

Increasing studies suggest that antibiotic exposure during pregnancy may increase the risk of childhood allergic diseases; however, controversy still exists. Thus, we conducted this meta‐analysis to evaluate the association between antibiotic use during pregnancy and childhood asthma/wheeze, eczema/atopic dermatitis, and food allergy.

Methods

CENTRAL, EMBASE, and PubMed were searched for studies up to July 20, 2020. Cohort studies and case‐control studies that estimated the association of antibiotic exposure in pregnancy with the risk of childhood asthma/wheeze, eczema/atopic dermatitis, and food allergy were included. A random‐effects model or fixed‐effects model was used to calculate the pooled estimates. The quality of the included studies was assessed by the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale (NOS). Stata12.0 software was used to analyze the association through a meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of 26 studies were included in the meta‐analysis. The results showed that maternal antibiotic exposure in pregnancy and the summary OR for the risk of childhood asthma/wheeze was 1.29 (95% CI = 1.16‐1.43), the summary OR for eczema/atopic dermatitis was 1.62 (95% CI = 1.16‐2.27), and the pooled OR for food allergy was 1.36 (95% CI = 0.94‐1.96).

Conclusions

Our results indicated that maternal antibiotic use during pregnancy might increase the risk of asthma/wheeze and eczema/atopic dermatitis but not food allergy in children. Further studies with larger sample size and robust multivariable adjustment are needed to confirm our findings. Nevertheless, the appropriate use of antibiotics during pregnancy is incredibly important, and healthcare professionals should be selective when prescribing antibiotics for pregnant women.