bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of insertion sequences on population structure of phytopathogenic bacteria in the Ralstonia solanacearum species complex
Authors: Greenrod Samuel TE , Stoycheva Martina , Elphinstone John , Friman Ville-Petri
Published: July 2022

Ralstonia solanacearum species complex (RSSC) is a destructive group of plant pathogenic bacteria and the causative agent of bacterial wilt disease. Experimental studies have attributed RSSC virulence to insertion sequences (IS), transposable genetic elements which can both disrupt and activate host genes. Yet, the global diversity and distribution of RSSC IS are unknown. In this study, IS were bioinformatically identified in a diverse collection of 356 RSSC strains representing four phylogenetic lineages, and their diversity investigated based on genetic distance measures and comparisons with the ISFinder database. IS distributions were characterised using metadata on RSSC lineage classification and potential gene disruptions by IS were determined based on their proximity to coding sequences. In total, we found 24,732 IS belonging to eleven IS families and 26 IS subgroups, with over half of the IS found in the megaplasmid. While IS families were generally widespread across the RSSC phylogeny, IS subgroups showed strong lineage-specific distributions and genetically similar bacterial strains had similar IS contents. Further, IS present in multiple lineages were generally found in different genomic regions suggesting potential recent horizontal transfer. Finally, IS were found to disrupt many genes with predicted functions in virulence, stress tolerance, and metabolism, suggesting that they might be adaptive. This study highlights that RSSC insertion sequences track the evolution of their bacterial hosts, potentially contributing to both intra- and inter-lineage genetic diversity.
Demand management approaches in services sector and influence on company performance
Authors: Rajani Renu L. , Heggde Githa S. , Kumar Rupesh , Bangwal Deepak
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the impact of supply chain risks (SCRs) and demand management strategies (DMSs) on the company performance in order to study the use of DMSs in delivering improved results even in the presence of SCRs. The SCRs considered under the study are as follows: demand variability, constrained capacity and quality of services delivery, and competitive performance, customer satisfaction and financial performance are the measures considered for company performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a survey of 439 businesses in India representing 10 groups of services industries (information technology/IT enabled services, business process outsourcing, IT infrastructure, logistics/transportation, healthcare, hospitality, personal services, consulting, education and training, consumer products and retail), using structural equation modeling (SEM) methods.

Findings

The findings reveal that presence of demand variability risk has significant influence upon the use of demand planning and forecasting, controlling customer arrival during peaks and shifting demand to future. Mismatch of capacity against demand (unused capacity) leads to the use of techniques to influence business during lean periods, thereby resulting in enhanced supply chain (SC) and financial performance. Controlling customer arrival during peaks to shift the demand to lean periods leads to enhanced financial performance. Presence of delivery quality risk does not significantly influence the use of DMS. Also, short-term use of customer and business handling techniques does not exert significant influence on company performance.

Research limitations/implications

The study has limitations as follows: (1) respondents are primarily from India while representing global organizations, (2) process/service redesign to relieve capacity as a DMS is not considered and (3) discussion on capacity management strategies (CMSs) is also excluded.

Practical implications

SC managers can be resourceful in shifting the peak demand to future with the application of techniques to control customer arrival during peaks. The managers can also help enhance business by influencing business through offers, incentives and promotions during lean periods to use available capacity and improve company performance.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first empirical works to explore how presence of SCRs influences the use of DMS and impacts the three types of company performance. The study expands current research on demand management options (DMOs) by linking three dimensions of company performance based on the data collected from ten different groups of service industry.
How educational systems respond to diversity, inclusion and social justice: Disability, power, discipline, territoriality and deterritorialization
Authors: Kikabhai Navin
Published: July 2022

This paper presents a critical examination of a vexed issue relating to how educational systems respond to diversity, inclusion, and social justice. Whilst there are unique factors specific to the various educational sectors; that is, to early years, schools, colleges, higher education and to the life‐long learning sector, this paper explores education and diversity in its broadest sense and recognizes that issues are as much cross‐sector as they are within‐sector. Further still, this paper shifts across disciplinary epistemic boundaries making use of Foucault's tools and the work of Deleuze and Guattari. Given this broader context, this paper primarily traverses the borders of schooling and higher education. It utilizes the notion of scales of justice and draws upon the work of Fraser and explores how this can offer insights into issues not only in relation to redistribution and recognition, but also to representation. It intentionally, draws upon (critical) disability studies literature; and the often‐forgotten discrimination known as disability. It acknowledges the various paradigms and terminological descriptors associated with disabled people, how these are intentionally, I argue, produced and re‐produced, subject to a process of misframing, misrecognition and maldistribution through various territorialized and often segregated educational spaces. In response, this paper offers a reading of dis/ability which moves through theoretical and conceptual understandings and advances the notion of deterritorialization in order to escape, engage and identify larger patterns of inequality. It offers different insights, provides an alternative mapping that can raise different critical questions about disability, also to issues of diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
Fragmenting work: Theoretical contributions and insights for a future of work research and policy agenda
Authors: Grimshaw Damian , Rubery Jill , Cooke Fang Lee , Hebson Gail
Published: July 2022

Mick Marchington's highly innovative research and writings on ‘Fragmenting Work’ have transformed our understanding of organisations, human resource management (HRM) and the world of work. He led a series of in‐depth case studies of networked organisations—including airport operations, supply chains, multi‐client call centres, public‐private partnerships and information technology outsourcing—and argued for the significance of inter‐organisational networks in directly informing HRM theory and also shaping HRM practice. The resulting highly cited body of published work captured and further developed Mick's intellectual interests in pluralism and complexity in relation to HRM theory. In this article, we reflect on Mick's theoretical contributions and also consider how core theoretical insights derived from the Fragmenting Work research programme can be applied to new questions about the future of work concerning digital platforms, career ladders and global supply chains.
Evaluation of protein degradation and flavor compounds during the processing of Xuan'en ham
Authors: Li Rui , Geng Cuizhu , Xiong Zhemin , Cui Yingying , Liao E , Peng Lijuan , Jin Weiping , Wang Haibin
Published: July 2022

Protein degradation occurs during the processing of dry‐cured ham, which has important influences on the flavor and quality of products. The aim of this work was to study the degradation kinetics of myofibrillar proteins (MPs) and sarcoplasmic proteins (SPs) extracted from the biceps femoris muscle during the processing of Xuan'en ham. A relationship between protein degradation and the flavor formation was found. During the processing of Xuan'en ham, MPs and SPs were mainly degraded in the salting stage and incipient fermentation. Accompanied by protein degradation, the content of carbonyl group in SPs increased gradually, but in MPs, it first increased and then decreased. Interconversion between sulfhydryl and disulfide bonds was investigated during this processing. Oxidation, degradation, and thermal effects significantly affected the surface hydrophobicity of proteins. More than one hundred volatile compounds have been identified at each stage of ham preparation. Among them, organic acids were the predominant group, followed by hydrocarbons, aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, and esters.
Ewing sarcoma: A pictorial review of typical and atypical locations with reference to the updated 2020 WHO classification system
Authors: Sparreboom Benjamin D , Trautman Jodie , Yaxley Julian
Published: July 2022

Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a small round cell sarcoma which usually occurs in the paediatric and young adult age groups. This pictorial review briefly discusses and presents the typical skeletal and extraskeletal locations which ES is encountered, including the metadiaphysis of long bones, pelvis, chest wall and paravertebral regions. Five cases of ES in atypical locations are then presented along with an observation of demographic differences between skeletal and extraskeletal ES. These cases include ES arising from the metatarsal, scapula, breast, intracranial soft tissue and the paranasal sinuses. Presenting symptoms, treatment approach and prognosis are highly variable depending on the location; and multimodal imaging is centrepiece in the management process. Management usually includes any combination of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. The WHO classification system was updated in 2020 to include some of the rare genetic subtypes of ES. One such case of the BCOR subtype is demonstrated in this review and occurs in an atypical location. Whether these subtypes have distinct radiological features or a propensity to occur in atypical locations is an area for further research.
Cortical thickness and related depressive symptoms in early abstinence from chronic methamphetamine use
Authors: Petzold Johannes , Dean Andy C. , Pochon Jean‐Baptiste , Ghahremani Dara G. , De La Garza Richard , London Edythe D.
Published: July 2022

Methamphetamine use is surging globally as a cause of morbidity and mortality. Treatment is typically sought in early abstinence, when craving and depressive symptoms are intense, contributing to relapse and poor outcomes. To advance an understanding of this problem and identify therapeutic targets, we conducted a retrospective analysis of brain structure in 89 adults with Methamphetamine Use Disorder who were in early abstinence and 89 healthy controls. Unlike most prior research, the participants did not significantly differ in age, sex and recent use of alcohol and tobacco (p‐values ≥ 0.400). We analysed thickness across the entire cerebral cortex by fitting a general linear model to identify differences between groups. Follow‐up regressions were performed to determine whether cortical thickness in regions showing group differences was related to craving, measured on a visual analogue scale, or to the Beck Depression Inventory score. Participants in early methamphetamine abstinence (M ± SD = 22.1 ± 25.6 days) exhibited thinner cortex in clusters within bilateral frontal, parietal, temporal, insular, and right cingulate cortices relative to controls (p‐values < 0.001, corrected for multiple comparisons). Unlike craving (β = 0.007, p = 0.947), depressive symptoms were positively correlated with cortical thickness across clusters (β = 0.239, p = 0.030) and with thickness in the anterior cingulate cluster (β = 0.246, p = 0.027) in the methamphetamine‐dependent group. Inasmuch as anterior cingulate pathology predicts response to antidepressants for Major Depressive Disorder, cingulate structure may also identify patients with Methamphetamine Use Disorder who can benefit from antidepressant medication.
Representation of women as editors in andrology journals
Authors: Wang Ming , Xue Yan , Wei Menghong , Jiang Hui , Zhang Xiansheng
Published: July 2022

Background

Surveys of gender diversity in editorial boards of journals have been conducted in several disciplines, but not in andrology.

Objectives

The present study was designed to investigate the gender distribution of editorial boards of andrology journals.

Methods

A total of eight andrology journals were included in the study, and the gender information and geographical location of editors were identified based on the information obtained from the Internet.

Results

A total of 382 editors’ gender information was confirmed. Women made up 1 of the 9 editors‐in‐chief (11.1%), 13 of the 68 deputy/associate editors (19.1%), 37 of the 270 editorial/advisory board members (13.7%) and 0 of the 35 other types of editors (0%). There was no significant difference in the journal impact factor between male and female editors‐in‐chief (3.060 ± 1.274 vs 3.842), and no significant association was found between impact factor and the proportion of female editor (Spearman'sr = −0.204,P = 0.629).

Discussion and conclusion

Andrology‐related journals lacked adequate gender diversity, not all journals reserved reasonable editorial positions for women. Besides, increased impact factor did not bring additional gender bias. Women should be given more reasonable seats to improve gender diversity in andrology‐related journals.
Multiparametric ultrasound for the diagnosis of Leydig cell tumours in non‐palpable testicular lesions
Authors: Corcioni Beniamino , Brandi Nicolò , Marasco Giovanni , Gaudiano Caterina , De Cinque Antonio , Ciccarese Federica , Ercolino Amelio , Schiavina Riccardo , Brunocilla Eugenio , Renzulli Matteo , Golfieri Rita
Published: July 2022

Background

The widespread use of ultrasonography has led to an increased number of incidentally detected small non‐palpable lesions, with Leydig cell tumours representing the majority of them.

Objectives

The ultrasonography, real‐time elastography and contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography features of a large series of non‐palpable testicular lesions were evaluated, focusing on the differences between Leydig cell tumours and other testicular masses.

Materials and methods

Of the 4679 testicular ultrasonography examinations performed at the Authors’ Institution between January 2009 and December 2018, 78 patients (1.7%) were incidentally diagnosed with at least one non‐palpable lesion and were enrolled. Thirteen patients (16.6%) declined surgery and were thus excluded. The remaining 65 underwent surgical resection with frozen section analysis. The conventional ultrasonography, colour Doppler, real‐time elastography and contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography were performed by a radiologist having more than 10 years of experience. Demographic and clinical data were collected.

Results

Leydig cell tumours were detected in 32 patients, being the most frequent benign tumours (49.2%); of the non‐Leydig cell tumours, 25 patients had malignant tumours, five non‐neoplastic lesions and three other benign tumours. The Leydig cell tumour group had mostly infertility problems whereas the non‐Leydig cell tumour group frequently experienced pain (p < 0.001). Leydig cell tumours were all hypoechoic (32/32, 100%; p = 0.002), more frequently presented with well‐defined margins compared to non‐Leydig cell tumours (30/32, 93.8% vs. 19/33, 57.6%; p = 0.001) and tended to be smaller than non‐Leydig cell tumours (5.3 mm [standard deviation 2.7 mm] vs. 10.6 mm [standard deviation 3.8 mm], respectively; p < 0.001). The vascular pattern characterised by the rapid wash‐in followed by the delayed wash‐out observed during contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography was significantly associated with the Leydig cell tumour histological diagnosis, even at multivariate analysis (odds ratio 480.5, p < 0.001), and yielded a high diagnostic accuracy (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.954, 95% confidence interval 0.903–1).

Discussion

Contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy in identifying benign testicular lesions, such as Leydig cell tumours; they are the most common non‐palpable tumours detected in infertile men and may benefit from enucleation.
Efficacy of the Mercedes‐Benz closure technique for vaginal reconstruction in female robot‐assisted radical cystectomy
Authors: Sasaki Yutaro , Takahashi Masayuki , Hashimoto Keisuke , Fukuta Kyotaro , Shiozaki Keito , Daizumoto Kei , Ueno Yoshiteru , Tsuda Megumi , Kusuhara Yoshito , Fukawa Tomoya , Yamaguchi Kunihisa , Yamamoto Yasuyo , Izaki Hirofumi , Kanayama Hiroomi
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Vaginal reconstruction using the posterior vaginal wall is required following radical cystectomy in women with resection of the uterus, adnexa, and anterior vaginal wall. Roll closure and clamshell closure are two widely known techniques. Of these, clamshell closure is recommended because roll closure has a high likelihood of breakdown or a resultant canal that is too narrow for sexual intercourse. In clamshell closure, however, folding the posterior vaginal wall anteriorly can be difficult. Therefore, we devised Mercedes‐Benz closure, in which the vaginal wall is sutured from three directions to form a Mercedes‐Benz shape, for anastomosis without tension on the vaginal wall. The present study was performed to investigate the efficacy of this alternative surgical technique for vaginal reconstruction.

Methods

Twenty‐six patients who underwent vaginal reconstruction following robot‐assisted radical cystectomy were divided into two groups: 15 underwent clamshell closure and 11 underwent Mercedes‐Benz closure. The patients' characteristics and surgical outcomes were compared between the two groups.

Results

There were no significant differences in clinical characteristics, including age, body mass index, and prior abdominal surgery between the two groups. The median vaginal reconstruction time tended to be longer in the Mercedes‐Benz closure group than in the clamshell closure group (35.0 vs. 27.0 min, p = 0.102). No complications associated with vaginal reconstruction were identified.

Conclusion

The surgical outcomes were comparable between Mercedes‐Benz closure and clamshell closure. If vaginal reconstruction with clamshell closure is difficult, Mercedes‐Benz closure is a valuable alternative technique.
Controlling the abundance of a native invasive plant does not affect species richness or functional diversity of wet grasslands
Authors: Krieger Marie‐Therese , Ditton Julia , Albrecht Harald , Baaij Barteline Martina , Kollmann Johannes , Teixeira Leonardo Henrique
Published: July 2022

Aim

In this study, we tested plant community‐based management methods to reduce the abundance of the invasive native plant Jacobaea aquatica (marsh ragwort). As J. aquatica mainly occurs in species‐rich wet grasslands, our aim was to define management measures that do not reduce the conservation value of the resident communities.

Location

Data were collected from 20 independent sites which varied in productivity and management intensity across the pre‐alpine Allgäu region (South Germany).

Methods

We monitored effects of temporary abandonment and decreased mowing intensity in very low‐ and low‐productive sites, as well as of decreased mowing and fertilization at moderately productive sites. Abundances of J. aquatica and the co‐occurring species were recorded at start and end of two experiments (2018–2021: very low‐ and low‐productive conservation grasslands; 2017–2020: moderately productive agricultural grasslands), while functional traits data of all species were gathered from the literature and specific databases. Generalized linear mixed‐effects models (GLMMs) were used to analyse the effects of management intensity on the abundance of J. aquatica, functional diversity and species richness of the resident communities.

Results

At all productivity levels, the abundance of J. aquatica declined under reduced management. Changes in community composition and species richness of the resident community were less pronounced than the reduction of J. aquatica, but species richness declined under lowest management intensities. Thus, moderate reduction in management intensity provided the most benefits in terms of reduction of J. aquatica, and maintenance of species richness and composition of the resident plant community.

Conclusions

Reducing management intensity in wet grasslands decreases the abundance of J. aquatica and thus is a suitable method to control this species. As plant community responses were only partially consistent, management plans must account for the productivity of invaded sites. To avoid negative effects on grassland biodiversity, only moderate suppression of J. aquatica is recommended.
Incorporating teacher intelligence into digital games: An expert system‐guided self‐regulated learning approach to promoting EFL students' performance in digital gaming contexts
Authors: Chu Shih‐Ting , Hwang Gwo‐Jen , Chien Shu‐Yun , Chang Shao‐Chen
Published: July 2022

In recent years, several studies have reported the potential of employing digital games in EFL (English as Foreign Language) courses to promote students' learning motivation. However, scholars have pointed out that students generally lack self‐learning ability, which is the key to the success of learning a foreign language. Therefore, it is crucial to foster students' self‐learning ability during the game‐based learning process. In this study, an expert system was developed to facilitate self‐regulated learning in digital game‐based learning contexts. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed approach, a quasi‐experimental design was employed in a university English course. The experimental group students learned with the self‐regulated English vocabulary game (SR‐EVG) approach, while the control group students learned with the conventional English vocabulary game (C‐EVG) approach. The experimental results indicated that the use of the SR‐EVG approach could improve learners' English vocabulary achievement and self‐regulation compared with the C‐EVG approach without increasing students' English learning anxiety. Moreover, through qualitative interviews, it was found that students who used the SR‐EVG approach would focus on their learning due to goal‐setting in the game and would pay more attention to the learning strategies they used.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

Digital game‐based learning situates students in a realistic situational environment, enabling students to learn by experiencing and interacting with the situations.

Without appropriate scaffolding during digital game‐based learning, students may become overly focused on the game, or perform many non‐learning behaviors

Self‐regulated learning refers to students’ ability to learn on their own via goal setting, strategic planning, self‐monitoring, and self‐adjustment.

What this paper adds

An expert system‐guided self‐regulated learning approach was proposed to facilitate EFL students’ performance in digital gaming contexts

Due to goal‐setting step, students using the proposed approach would focus on their learning and pay more attention to the learning strategies they used.

Implications for practice and/or policy

It is potentially worth using the expert system‐guided self‐regulated learning approach in EFL training to facilitate students’ performances and perceptions.

The proposed approach can further analyze and compare the students’ gaming and learning behaviors in the digital gaming contexts.
Response: Personality disorder is here to stay across the lifespan – a response to Commentaries on the May 2022 Debate
Authors: Tyrer Peter
Published: July 2022

Background

The classification of personality disorder is in a state of flux. Revision is necessary, overdue, and is provided by the new ICD‐11 classification.

Aims

To explain the advantages of the new classification system and why ‘borderlne’ is a redundant term. To summarise positive and negative views about its implications, especially in young people.

Materials and Methods

Review of recent literature and developments.

Results

Personality disturbance is ubiquitous and changes across the life span. The data are unequivocal.

Discussion

As personality disturbance is so common in childhood and adolescence it should be recognised and acknowledged at this time even though it is very likely to change.

Conclusions

The stigma surrounding personality disorder can be countered by science and courage.
Development of infections among patients with myasthenia gravis undergoing immunotherapy
Authors: Konno Shingo , Uchi Takafumi , Isonishi Jun , Matsushima Mari , Kihara Hideo , Sugimoto Hideki , Fujioka Toshiki
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Evidence on factors contributing to the development of infections in myasthenia gravis (MG) patients on immunotherapy is scarce.

Methods

We studied 192 MG patients attending our hospital between April 2000 and May 2021. We examined the data of patients who had undergone immunotherapy and developed an infection and analyzed factors influencing infectious events including MG severity, antibody type, thymoma, thymectomy, treatment regimens and duration, and status of MG.

Results

A total of 148/192 (77%) patients (52 men, mean onset 43 y) underwent immunotherapy. Of these, 22/148 (14.8%) patients developed an infection‐related hospitalization within 10 y of starting immunotherapy. Respiratory infections occurred in 14/22 (63.6%) of patients. The infections were fatal in 6/22 (27.2%) of patients. Infection‐associated myasthenic crisis developed in 4/22 (18.1%) patients. Age at MG onset was the only variable associated with the development of infection (hazard ratio [HR]; 1.056, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.0291.085, P < .001). The infection‐free rate within 10 y of starting immunotherapy by MG subtype was 83.5% (95% CI: 61.4–93.5%) in ocular‐MG (n = 29), and 87.5% (95% CI: 72.3–94.7%) in generalized early‐onset MG (n = 55), 46.1% (95% CI: 21.7–67.6%) in generalized late‐onset MG (n = 22), 87.7% (95% CI; 66.3–95.9%) in thymoma‐associated MG (n = 29). Patients with muscle‐specific tyrosine kinase antibody‐positive MG (n = 2) and antibodies‐negative MG (n = 11) did not experience infections.

Conclusion

Age at onset of MG was a significant contributor to the development of infection. Generalized late‐onset MG is the most susceptible to infection and should be carefully monitored during immunotherapy.
Single‐cell RNA sequencing in oral science: Current awareness and perspectives
Authors: Wu Jie , Ding Yumei , Wang Jinyu , Lyu Fengyuan , Tang Qingming , Song Jiangyuan , Luo Zhiqiang , Wan Qian , Lan Xiaoli , Xu Zhi , Chen Lili
Published: July 2022

The emergence of single‐cell RNA sequencing enables simultaneous sequencing of thousands of cells, making the analysis of cell population heterogeneity more efficient. In recent years, single‐cell RNA sequencing has been used in the investigation of heterogeneous cell populations, cellular developmental trajectories, stochastic gene transcriptional kinetics, and gene regulatory networks, providing strong support in life science research. However, the application of single‐cell RNA sequencing in the field of oral science has not been reviewed comprehensively yet. Therefore, this paper reviews the development and application of single‐cell RNA sequencing in oral science, including fields of tissue development, teeth and jaws diseases, maxillofacial tumors, infections, etc., providing reference and prospects for using single‐cell RNA sequencing in studying the oral diseases, tissue development, and regeneration.
Sirt6 deficiency contributes to mitochondrial fission and oxidative damage in podocytes via ROCK1‐Drp1 signalling pathway
Authors: Chen Zhaowei , Liang Wei , Hu Jijia , Zhu Zijing , Feng Jun , Ma Yiqiong , Yang Qian , Ding Guohua
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Increasing evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction is the key driver of angiotensin II (Ang II)‐induced kidney injury. This study was designed to investigate whether Sirtuin 6 (Sirt6) could affect Ang II‐induced mitochondrial damage and the potential mechanisms.

Materials and Methods

Podocyte‐specific Sirt6 knockout mice were infused with Ang II and cultured podocytes were stimulated with Ang II to evaluate the effects of Sirt6 on mitochondrial structure and function in podocytes. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect protein expression and mitochondrial morphology in vitro. Electron microscopy was used to assess mitochondrial morphology in mice. Western blotting was used to quantify protein expression.

Results

Mitochondrial fission and decreased Sirt6 expression were observed in podocytes from Ang II‐infused mice. In Sirt6‐deficient mice, Ang II infusion induced increased apoptosis and mitochondrial fragmentation in podocytes than that in Ang II‐infused wild‐type mice. In cultured human podocytes, Sirt6 knockdown exacerbated Ang II‐induced mitochondrial fission, whereas Sirt6 overexpression ameliorated the Ang II‐induced changes in the balance between mitochondrial fusion and fission. Functional studies revealed that Sirt6 deficiency exacerbated mitochondrial fission by promoting dynamin‐related protein 1 (Drp1) phosphorylation. Furthermore, Sirt6 mediated Drp1 phosphorylation by promoting Rho‐associated coiled coil‐containing protein kinase 1 (ROCK1) expression.

Conclusion

Our study has identified Sirt6 as a vital factor that protects against Ang II‐induced mitochondrial fission and apoptosis in podocytes via the ROCK1‐Drp1 signalling pathway.
Riparian buffers provide refugia during secondary forest succession
Authors: Thompson Michelle E. , Halstead Brian J. , Donnelly Maureen A.
Published: July 2022

Aim

Secondary forests regenerating from human disturbance are increasingly becoming a predominant forest type in many regions, and they play a significant role in forest community dynamics. Understanding the factors that underlie the variation in species responses during secondary succession is important for understanding community assembly and biodiversity monitoring and management. Because species vary in ecology and behaviour, responses to ecosystem change should vary among species. Here, we show that habitat type (riparian, upland), phylogeny, and species traits mediate anuran and lizard probability of occurrence and species richness in pasture and secondary forest.

Location

Sarapiquí and Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica.

Methods

We used phylogenetic occupancy models to estimate assemblage‐level and species‐specific responses to forest succession in 30 chronosequence sites that include pasture, secondary forest regenerating from pasture, and mature forest sites.

Results

For the majority of species, we found increasing probability of occurrence in upland habitats as forest regenerated from pasture to secondary forest and similar probability of occurrence in riparian habitats across pasture, secondary forest, and mature forest sites. Species' responses to forest stage were phylogenetically correlated, and the trend was especially strong for anuran response to pasture sites. Anurans with lentic larval habitat had a positive occupancy response to pasture upland habitat, and anurans with lotic larval habitat had a variable response to different forest stages compared to mature forest.

Main Conclusions

Our study, which focuses on sites that are minimally isolated from mature forest reference sites, indicated that anuran and lizard occupancy rapidly recovered to a level similar to mature forest in a relatively short time span (approximately 20 years). Riparian habitats are key ecosystem features in our system and provide refugia for organisms in early successional stages. Maintenance of vegetation along streams shows that we can mitigate forest conversion by maintaining riparian buffers.
Are invasive species a phylogenetically clustered subset of naturalized species in regional floras? A case study for flowering plants in China
Authors: Qian Hong , Rejmánek Marcel , Qian Shenhua
Published: July 2022

Aim

We test (1) whether invasive angiosperm (flowering plant) species are a phylogenetically clustered subset of all naturalized angiosperm species within an angiosperm assemblage, (2) whether more harmful invasive species are more strongly, or less strongly, related to each other, (3) whether the result of the first test is consistent with those for geographic regions distributed in substantially different climatic conditions, and (4) whether patterns of phylogenetic relatedness for invasive species in regions across climatic gradients are consistent with those for overall naturalized species.

Location

China.

Time period

Current.

Taxon

Angiosperms (flowering plants).

Methods

We recognized 28 province‐level regions in China and collated naturalized and invasive species lists of angiosperms for each region. Two phylogenetic metrics (i.e., net relatedness index and nearest taxon index), which represent different depths of evolutionary history, were used to quantify phylogenetic relatedness of angiosperms in China and in each region. Values of the metrics of phylogenetic relatedness were related to temperature and precipitation.

Results

At the national scale, invasive assemblage is a phylogenetically clustered subset of the naturalized species pool. More harmful invasive species are more strongly clustered. At the regional scale, both naturalized and invasive species are phylogenetically clustered subsets of the national naturalized species pool. Furthermore, invasive species in regional floras are also phylogenetically clustered subsets of their respective regional naturalized species pools.

Main conclusions

Invasive angiosperm species are a phylogenetically clustered subset of naturalized angiosperm species. More harmful invasive species are more strongly clustered with respect to their naturalized species pools, compared to less harmful invasive species. Our findings have significant implications to predicting and controlling invasive species based on phylogenetic relatedness among naturalized species.
Differences and similarities in the experience of living with diabetes distress: A qualitative study of adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Orben Kimberlee , Ritholz Marilyn D. , McCalla Monet , Beverly Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2022

Aims

To explore the lived experiences of diabetes distress (DD) in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and to identify similarities and differences in these experiences.

Methods

We conducted in‐depth interviews with people with type 1 (n = 19) and type 2 diabetes (n = 29). We conducted thematic analysis using NVivo 12 software.

Results

We identified three themes: (1) Experiencing Diabetes Distress as a Lack of Control – Similarities: All participants voiced a perceived lack of control with their glucose levels and other peoples' misconceptions about diabetes. Differences: Nearly all type 1 participants described a “lack of control” over emotional reactions to hypo‐ and hyperglycaemia as opposed to only one type 2 participant. (2) Experiencing Diabetes Distress as a Burden of Constant Management – Similarities: All participants emphasized the nonstop, relentless nature of diabetes management. Differences: type 1 participants described self‐care as vital, with life‐threatening consequences if not performed, while type 2 participants did not perceive such dangerous consequences. (3) Understanding the Value of Social Support in Diabetes Distress – Similarities: All participants acknowledged the importance of having others recognize the difficulties of living with diabetes. Differences: type 1 participants noted actual experiences where peers and health care professionals acknowledged that burden, whereas type 2 participants expressed a desire for this support that was not present in their lives.

Conclusions

Findings revealed subtle differences in perceptions of DD among adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, which suggest a need to tailor treatment for people with each type of diabetes.
Common misconceptions of randomized controlled trials in oncology
Authors: Powell Kerrington , Prasad Vinay
Published: July 2022

In biomedicine, randomized controlled trials are regarded as the gold standard of evidence owing to their ability to minimize confounding factors that may influence results. Randomized trials that are properly designed serve as a basis for drug regulation and national guideline development. Despite the many advantages of the study design, there are several misconceptions regarding randomized trials, particularly in oncology. These misconceptions include: the difficulty of designing and conducting a trial, the length of time necessary to complete a trial, the expense, appraisal and critique, pharmaceutical industry influence, and ethical standards. Furthermore, developing regulatory and strategic frameworks has the potential to enhance the randomized trial landscape. Such initiatives will focus on relevant clinical issues that persist in oncology, reducing duplicative and unethical trials and maximizing value‐based healthcare. Here, we address several misconceptions regarding randomized controlled trials and provide potential solutions to enhance their methodology and implementation.
Frailty trajectories in community‐dwelling older adults during COVID‐19 pandemic: The PRESTIGE study
Authors: Pilotto Alberto , Custodero Carlo , Zora Sabrina , Poli Stefano , Senesi Barbara , Prete Camilla , Tavella Erica , Veronese Nicola , Zini Elena , Torrigiani Claudio , Sabbà Carlo , Cella Alberto ,   the PRESTIGE Study Investigators
Published: July 2022

Background

Frailty has been recognized as potential surrogate of biological age and relevant risk factor for COVID‐19 severity. Thus, it is important to explore the frailty trajectories during COVID‐19 pandemic and understand how COVID‐19 directly and indirectly impacts on frailty condition.

Methods

We enrolled 217 community‐dwelling older adults with available information on frailty condition as assessed by multidimensional frailty model both at baseline and at one‐year follow‐up using Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI) tools. Pre‐frail/frail subjects were identified at baseline as those with MPI score >0.33 (MPI grades 2–3). Frailty worsening was defined by MPI difference between 12 months follow‐up and baseline ≥0.1. Multivariable logistic regression was modelled to identify predictors of worsening of frailty condition.

Results

Frailer subjects at baseline (MPI grades 2–3 = 48.4%) were older, more frequently female and had higher rates of hospitalization and Sars‐CoV‐2 infection compared to robust ones (MPI grade 1). Having MPI grades 2–3 at baseline was associated with higher risk of further worsening of frailty condition (adjusted odd ratio (aOR): 13.60, 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.01–46.09), independently by age, gender and Sars‐CoV‐2 infection. Specifically, frail subjects without COVID‐19 (aOR: 14.84, 95% CI: 4.26–51.74) as well as those with COVID‐19 (aOR: 12.77, 95% CI: 2.66–61.40, p = 0.001) had significantly higher risk of worsening of frailty condition.

Conclusions

Effects of COVID‐19 pandemic among community‐dwelling frailer individuals are far beyond the mere infection and disease, determining a significant deterioration of frailty status both in infected and non‐infected subjects.
Low triiodothyronine syndrome is associated with stroke‐associated pneumonia
Authors: Chen Huijun , Xu Minjie , Huang Yezhi , He Jincai , Ren Wenwei
Published: July 2022

Objective

Stroke‐associated pneumonia (SAP) is the most common early consequence in patients suffering from an acute ischaemic stroke (AIS). The purpose of this study was to explore the possible relationship between low triiodothyronine (T3) syndrome and SAP in stroke patients.

Methods

This study recruited 2460 consecutive AIS patients. SAP was defined according to the modified Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for hospital‐acquired pneumonia. The thyroid hormones levels were measured within 24 h after admission. Low T3 syndrome was characterized as T3 below the lower limit of the reference interval accompanied by normal TSH levels.

Results

Among the total patients, 336 (13.7%) patients were diagnosed with SAP. SAP in individuals with low T3 syndrome was substantially greater (p < .001) as compared to those without low T3 syndrome. After adjusting for possible confounders, low T3 syndrome (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.20–2.09; p = .001) remained significant in our logistic model. Patients with low T3 syndrome had a higher risk of severe SAP (aOR = 2.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.38–3.44; p = .001).

Conclusion

Low T3 syndrome, independent of recognized risk factors, is a possible risk factor for in‐hospital SAP, which can help clinicians in the early detection and treatment of high‐risk patients.
Volanesorsen to treat severe hypertriglyceridaemia: A pooled analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Calcaterra Ilenia , Lupoli Roberta , Di Minno Alessandro , Di Minno Matteo Nicola Dario
Published: July 2022

Background

Patients with severe hypertriglyceridaemia (sHTG) are often refractory to lipid‐lowering therapy. Apolipoprotein (Apo) CIII inhibition could be promising to treat subjects with sHTG. The antisense oligonucleotide against APOC3 mRNA volanesorsen was recently introduced to treat sHTG. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of RCTs on the efficacy and safety of volanesorsen as compared to placebo treatment in patients with severe HTG.

Methods

Studies were systematically searched in the PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases according to PRISMA guidelines. The last search was performed on 7 February 2022.

Results

Four studies showed significant reduction in TG after 3 months of treatment with volanesorsen as compared with placebo (MD: −73.9%; 95%CI: −93.5%, −54.2; p < .001 I2 = 89.05%; p < .001); VLDL‐C level (MD: −71.0%; 95%CI: −76.6%, −65.4%; p < .001 I2 = 94.1%; p < .001); Apo‐B48 level (MD: −69.03%; 95%CI: −98.59.4%, −39.47%; p < .001, I2 = 93.51%; p < .001) and Apo‐CIII level (MD: −80.0%; 95%CI: −97.5%, −62.5; p < .001 I2 = 94.1%; p < .001) with an increase in HDL‐C level (MD: +45.92%, 95%CI: +37.24%, +54.60%; p < .001 I2 = 94.34%; p < .001) and in LDL‐C level (MD: +68.6%, 95%CI: +7.0%, +130.1%; p < .001 I2 = 96.18%; p < .001) without a significant elevation of Apo‐B100 level (MD: +4.58%, 95%CI: −5.64%, +14.79%; p = .380 I2 = 95.09%; p < .001) in 139 volanesorsen patients as compared to 100 placebo‐treated controls. Most of adverse events were mild and related to local injection site reactions.

Conclusions

In patients with severe HTG, volanesorsen is associated with a significant reduction in TG, VLDL‐C, Apo‐B48 and non‐HDL‐C and increment of HDL‐C as compared to placebo. Documented efficacy is accompanied by an acceptable safety profile.
Antibody response after COVID‐19 vaccination in intravenous immunoglobulin‐treated immune neuropathies
Authors: Svačina Martin K. R. , Meißner Anika , Schweitzer Finja , Ladwig Anne , Sprenger‐Svačina Alina , Klein Ines , Wüstenberg Hauke , Kohle Felix , Schneider Christian , Grether Nicolai B. , Wunderlich Gilbert , Fink Gereon R. , Klein Florian , Di Cristanziano Veronica , Lehmann Helmar C.
Published: July 2022

Background and purpose

This study assessed the prevalence of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies in therapeutic immunoglobulin and their impact on serological response to COVID‐19 mRNA vaccine in patients with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg)‐treated chronic immune neuropathies.

Methods

Forty‐six samples of different brands or lots of IVIg or subcutaneous IgG were analyzed for anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. Blood sera from 16 patients with immune neuropathies were prospectively analyzed for anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgA, IgG, and IgM before and 1 week after IVIg infusion subsequent to consecutive COVID‐19 mRNA vaccine doses and after 12 weeks. These were compared to 42 healthy subjects.

Results

Twenty‐four (52%) therapeutic immunoglobulin samples contained anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG. All patients with immune neuropathies (mean age = 65 ± 16 years, 25% female) were positive for anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG after COVID‐19 vaccination. Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgA titers significantly decreased 12–14 weeks after vaccination (p = 0.02), whereas IgG titers remained stable (p = 0.2). IVIg did not significantly reduce intraindividual anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgA/IgG serum titers in immune neuropathies (p = 0.69). IVIg‐derived anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG did not alter serum anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG decrease after IVIg administration (p = 0.67).

Conclusions

Our study indicates that IVIg does not impair the antibody response to COVID‐19 mRNA vaccine in a short‐term observation, when administered a minimum of 2 weeks after each vaccine dose. The infusion of current IVIg preparations that contain anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG does not significantly alter serum anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG titers.
Effect of daily treadmill running exercise on masseter muscle nociception associated with social defeat stress in mice
Authors: Hasegawa Mana , Piriyaprasath Kajita , Otake Masanori , Kamimura Rantaro , Saito Isao , Fujii Noritaka , Yamamura Kensuke , Okamoto Keiichiro
Published: July 2022

We investigated the effects of social defeat stress (SDS) and treadmill running on masseter muscle nociception, which was quantified by the orofacial formalin test and c‐Fos and FosB immunoreactivities in the upper cervical spinal cord (C1/C2) region in male mice. After daily SDS or non‐SDS conditioning for 10 days, SDS‐conditioned mice were categorized into SDS‐susceptible versus resilient mice. Several mice, including non‐SDS‐conditioned, SDS‐susceptible, and resilient mice, were selected to assess masseter muscle nociception on Day 11. SDS conditioning for 10 days increased masseter muscle‐evoked nocifensive behaviors and c‐Fos and FosB expression in SDS‐susceptible compared to non‐SDS and resilient mice. The remaining SDS‐susceptible and non‐SDS mice were subjected to an additional 10 days of SDS plus treadmill running or sedentary sessions before assessing masseter muscle nociception on Day 21. Daily treadmill running sessions reduced enhanced masseter muscle nociception in SDS‐susceptible mice but not in non‐SDS mice. The preventive effects of daily treadmill running immediately after each SDS conditioning for 10 days on orofacial nocifensive behaviors were assessed on Day 11. Treadmill running conducted immediately after daily SDS inhibited enhanced orofacial nocifensive behaviors. These findings indicate that repeated SDS increases masseter muscle nociception, which could be prevented by daily treadmill running exercise.