bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel fully human recombinant antibody neutralizing α‐hemolysin of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Xu Wenfeng , Peng Lei , Li Chun , Wu Tong , Chen Han , Zhang Haiyan , Yu Hong , Ye Yingchun , Wu Yuchuan , Yuan Qing , Nian Siji
Published: June 2022

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is resistant to almost all β‐lactam antibiotics. Hence, new ways to control MRSA infection, such as antibacterial antibodies, need to be explored. α‐hemolysin is the most important virulence factor widely expressed in S. aureus. This study aimed to develop a new fully human antibody against α‐hemolysin of S. aureus and research its neutralizing effect. The single‐chain antibody fragments (scFvs) against S. aureus were screened from a fully human scFv library using phage display technology. The selected scFvs had good binding affinities to α‐hemolysin and S. aureus. The IgG‐like scFv‐Fc inserted into the pcDNA3.1 or pMH3 vector was expressed in HEK293F suspension cells to extend the half‐life and restore Fc function. The size of purified scFv‐Fc was about 55 kDa. The functions of expressed scFv‐Fcs against α‐hemolysin were validated. The cytotoxicity assays showed that scFv555‐Fc had better protective effects on A549 cells than other scFv‐Fcs. The results of anti‐rabbit erythrocyte lysis and A549 cell apoptosis assay confirmed that scFv555‐Fc had a significant neutralizing effect on α‐hemolysin. The scFv555‐Fc was used to construct the docking model of antigen–antibody complexes using Discovery Studio software. It predicted that the key binding sites of α‐hemolysin were TYR28, LYS37, PHE39, ARG56, and LYS58, which might be the key toxic sites of α‐hemolysin. A novel fully human scFv‐Fc antibody neutralizing the α‐hemolysin toxin of S. aureus was successfully developed. The findings might provide a new theoretical basis and treatment method for preventing MRSA infection.
Riociguat attenuates the changes in left ventricular proteome and microRNA profile after experimental aortic stenosis in mice
Authors: Benkner Alexander , Rüdebusch Julia , Nath Neetika , Hammer Elke , Grube Karina , Gross Stefan , Dhople Vishnu M. , Eckstein Gertrud , Meitinger Thomas , Kaderali Lars , Völker Uwe , Fielitz Jens , Felix Stephan B.
Published: June 2022

Background and Purpose

Development and progression of heart failure involve endothelial and myocardial dysfunction as well as a dysregulation of the NO‐sGC‐cGMP signalling pathway. Recently, we reported that the sGC stimulator riociguat has beneficial effects on cardiac remodelling and progression of heart failure in response to chronic pressure overload. Here, we examined if these beneficial effects of riociguat were also reflected in alterations of the myocardial proteome and microRNA profiles.

Experimental Approach

Male C57BL/6N mice underwent transverse aortic constriction (TAC) and sham‐operated mice served as controls. TAC and sham animals were randomised and treated with either riociguat or vehicle for 5 weeks, starting 3 weeks after surgery, when cardiac hypertrophy was established. Afterwards, we performed mass spectrometric proteome analyses and microRNA sequencing of proteins and RNAs, respectively, isolated from left ventricles (LVs).

Key Results

TAC‐induced changes of the LV proteome were significantly reduced by treatment with riociguat. Bioinformatics analyses revealed that riociguat improved TAC‐induced cardiovascular disease‐related pathways, metabolism and energy production, for example, reversed alterations in the levels of myosin heavy chain 7, cardiac phospholamban and ankyrin repeat domain‐containing protein 1. Riociguat also attenuated TAC‐induced changes of microRNA levels in the LV.

Conclusion and Implications

The sGC stimulator riociguat exerted beneficial effects on cardiac structure and function during pressure overload, which was accompanied by a reversal of TAC‐induced changes of the cardiac proteome and microRNA profile. Our data support the potential of riociguat as a novel therapeutic agent for heart failure.
External ear anatomy and variations in neonates
Authors: Erdem Saadet , Fazliogullari Zeliha , Ural Ahmet , Karabulut Ahmet Kagan , Unver Dogan Nadire
Published: June 2022

It is aesthetically important that the auricle has a natural and beautiful shape. The sizes, position and symmetry of normal auricle are used for different purposes in different disciplines. A deformation in the auricle of neonates and its size or location on the face may indicate a possible anomaly. The aim of this study is to investigate the normal sizes, anomaly types, anomaly rates and the relationship between hearing screening test results and auricular anomaly of the neonatal auricle. The length, width, angle, and distance measurements of the auricle were made in neonates (n = 550). Anomaly types of auricle were observed. Goniometer was used to measure angles; digital caliper and ruler were used to measure lengths. Anomalies were detected by the method of observation. In the morphometric data of the neonatal auricle, differences were determined in length and width values in terms of gender. Various types of anomalies were observed in the right ear of 96 participants and in the left ear of 103 participants. Normal auricle size, position and symmetry are important for surgical reconstructions, hearing aid design, producing data banks on gender, age and ethnicity, and providing reference information for multiple diagnostic and forensic procedures. Recognition and early detection of auricular anomalies play an essential role in clinical diagnosis and their correction with special devices.
Children and Society Policy Review—A review of government consultation processes when engaging with children and young people about the statutory guidance for Relationships and Sex Education in schools in England
Authors: Setty Emily , Dobson Emma
Published: June 2022

This paper examines the participation of children and young people within government consultation processes. It considers the recent Department for Education consultation on its statutory guidance for schools for Relationships and Sex Education in England. The paper is based on a Freedom of Information request for the consultation responses categorised as from ‘young people’. We identify two issues in our interrogation of the data. First, there is evidence that a substantial proportion of responses were not submitted by young people. Second, the consultation approach did not include all the features necessary for meaningful consultation. We consider the implications for the youth consultation on policy matters that affect them.
Impact of duration of mechanical support on heart transplantation: Hasty transplantation may not have a good long‐term outcome
Authors: Yu Sz‐Han , Chou Heng‐Wen , Wang Chih‐Hsien , Tsao Chuan‐I , Fu Hsun‐Yi , Chen Kevin Po‐Hsun , Chi Nai‐Hsin , Huang Shu‐Chien , Chou Nai‐Kuan , Hsu Ron‐Bin , Yu Hsi‐Yu , Lin Jou‐Wei , Chen Yih‐Sharng
Published: June 2022

Background

Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) has been widely utilized in critically ill cardiac transplant candidates. Few studies have investigated the impact of duration of MCS before heart transplantation (HTx) on long‐term patient survival.

Methods

A retrospective HTx database was reviewed between 2009 and 2019. Patients who did not or did undergo MCS before HTx were categorized into two groups: (1) A (did not) and (2) B (did), respectively. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was plotted to assess the cutoff level of MCS duration before HTx in evaluating 5‐year survival.

Result

A total of 270 HTx patients (group A: 120, group B: 150) were analyzed. Group B patients had a higher percentage of blood type O, a higher incidence of resuscitation, a shorter listing duration, and a higher likelihood of having United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) 1A status than group A. The ROC curve revealed 24 days as a good cut‐off level for determining the best MCS before HTx timing. Group B was categorized into two subgroups: (1) B1 (MCS < 24 days, n = 65) and (2) B2 (MCS > 24 days, n = 85). B2 had a higher incidence of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), hemodialysis, longer waiting time after MCS, and better ventricular assist device implantation than B1. However, the survival curves showed that B1 outcomes were significantly worse than in groups A and B2. Groups A and B2 had similar survival curves without an increased incidence of infection.

Conclusion

The preliminary data demonstrated that a longer duration of MCS may be associated with better outcomes than urgent HTx.
Large intra‐abdominal umbilical vein varix with absent ductus venosus: The undeniable etiology of fetal heart failure despite associated congenital heart disease
Authors: Rakha Shaimaa , Mohamed Alhussein Ahmed
Published: June 2022

Fetal intra‐abdominal umbilical vein varix (IUVV) is one of the rare anomalies of the umbilical vessels that simulate a cystic structure but with a vascular nature. IUVV usually drains into IVC through ductus venosus (DV), with evidence of an increase in the cardiac preload in most cases. In the current report, we present a fetus with congenital heart disease; however, the association of large IUVV with DV agenesis and direct drainage into the heart resulted in a high output fetal heart failure.
Discrepancy between biomarkers of lung injury and 1‐year mortality in COVID‐19
Authors: Atalay Basak , Cesur Abdurrahman , Agirbasli Mehmet
Published: June 2022

Background

COVID‐19 global pandemic started in late 2019 with the first wave. In this cross‐sectional and observational study, we evaluated the associations between the biomarkers, COVID‐19 pneumonia severity and 1‐year mortality.

Methods

A sample of 276 polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐positive patients for SARS‐CoV‐2 was included. Computerized tomography severity score (CT‐SS) was used to assess the severity of COVID‐19 pneumonia in 222 cases. Multivariate analyses were performed to find the predictors of CT‐SS, severe CT‐SS (≥20) and 1‐year mortality. Biomarkers of ferritin, high‐sensitive C‐reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), cardiac troponin (cTn), neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), uric acid (UA) and d‐dimer were routinely measured.

Results

Severe CT‐SS (>20) was observed in 86 (31.2%) cases. Mortality was observed in 75 (27.2%) patients at 1 year. LDH displayed the highest predictive accuracy for severe CT‐SS (AUC 0.741, sensitivity = 81% and specificity = 68%, cut‐off value: 360 mg/dl). Linear regression analysis displayed that LDH predicted CT‐SS [B = 11 (95% CI for B = 5–17, p < .001)]. Age was the most significant parameter that was associated with severe CT‐SS (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.92–0.99, p = .015). d‐dimer was the only biomarker that predicted with 1‐year mortality (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.08–2.42, p = .020).

Conclusion

LDH is a sensitive and specific biomarker to determine patients with severe lung injury in COVID‐19. d‐dimer is the only biomarker that predicts 1‐year mortality. Neither LDH nor CT‐SS is associated with 1‐year mortality.
Ökumenische Rundschau
Authors: Heller Dagmar
Published: June 2022

This article reviews the history of Ökumenische Rundschau, an ecumenical journal founded in Germany in 1952. It examines the journal's relationship to the church landscape in Germany as well as its links to the worldwide ecumenical movement and the World Council of Churches. The article reviews the institutional development of the journal and the themes and content of the journal over the years.
Depressive symptoms, family cohesion, and acculturation gap conflicts among Latinx emerging adults living in the United States
Authors: Rahman Abir , Sanchez Mariana , Bursac Zoran , Whiting Chanadra Young , Piña‐Watson Brandy , Taskin Tanjila , Ramirez‐Ortiz Daisy , Leinaar Edward , Estrada Yannine , Lozano Alyssa , Nehme Lea , Cano Miguel Ángel
Published: June 2022

Objective

This study examined associations of family cohesion and acculturation gap conflicts with depressive symptoms, as well as the moderation effect of family cohesion on the association between acculturation gap conflicts and depressive symptoms among Latinx emerging adults.

Background

In addition to normative developmental stressors (e.g., making long‐term career decisions), many Latinx emerging adults face additional sociocultural stressors (acculturative stress, ethnic discrimination) that put them at risk of experiencing adverse psychological outcomes. However, acculturation gap conflicts have not been examined much in this population.

Method

Data from a cross‐sectional survey were collected from 200 participants from Arizona (n = 99) and Florida (n = 101). Hierarchical multiple regression and moderation analyses were conducted to examine the association between acculturation gap conflicts and depressive symptoms and the moderating effects of family cohesion of that respective association.

Results

Higher family cohesion was associated with lower depressive symptoms. Conversely, higher acculturation gap conflicts were associated with higher depressive symptoms. Moderation analyses indicated that family cohesion moderated the association between acculturation gap conflicts and depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

This study adds to the limited literature on acculturation gap conflicts among Latinx emerging adults and advances our understanding of the role of family cohesion as a modifiable moderator.

Implications

It is critical to identify culturally relevant and modifiable determinants that can have beneficial or adverse associations with the mental health of Latinx emerging adults. Findings from this study have the potential to inform intervention for mental health targeting Latinx emerging adults.
Fatigue strength and fracture characteristics of linear friction welded joints of weathering mild steel
Authors: Wang Yixun , Tsutsumi Seiichiro , Kawakubo Takumi , Fujii Hidetoshi
Published: June 2022

Weathering steel with high phosphorus content usually cannot be joined by fusion welding due to the possible solidification crack. The present study successfully joined the unweldable weathering steel SPA‐H by linear friction welding (LFW) above the A3 temperature. The microstructure, microhardness, and residual stress were measured and analyzed. The stress concentration factor (SCF) of LFW joints was assessed by the finite element method (FEM). The influence of flash on the fatigue strength and fracture characteristics was investigated. The results suggest that the weld center zone (WCZ) consisting of ferrite and bainite shows a necking shape. The ductile fracture of LFW joints occurred at the base metal, resulting in a joint efficiency close to 100%. The possible unbonded flash at the edge of the LFW joints greatly reduced the fatigue life. The proposed S‐N curve illustrates a much higher fatigue strength than the FAT90 design curve.
Long‐term trends and seasonal variation in host density, temperature, and nutrients differentially affect chytrid fungi parasitising lake phytoplankton
Authors: Gsell Alena S. , Wolinska Justyna , Preuß Katrin , Teurlincx Sven , Özkundakci Deniz , Hilt Sabine , van Donk Ellen , Ibelings Bas W. , Adrian Rita
Published: June 2022

Parasites are generally considered the most commonly occurring type of consumers, yet their biomass and population dynamics are rarely quantified at community level.

Here, we used 12 years of weekly or fortnightly monitoring data (518 time points) to determine the occurrence of chytrids, fungal parasites of phytoplankton, to assess their seasonality and long‐term (seasonally‐detrended) dynamics in the pelagic plankton community of a temperate, eutrophic, and polymictic lake.

Chytrid infections were observed in c. 75% of all samples with recurrent infections in multiple host taxa. Infection prevalence was highest in spring, but infections occurred throughout the entire year with an average of 2.3 host taxa infected per time point (ranging from 0 to 10 host taxa) and an average infection prevalence of 2.78% (ranging from 0% to 47.35%). Infected host biomass equalled that of the carnivorous zooplankton and decreased over time, while infection prevalence remained unchanged. Seasonal infection prevalence increased with phytoplankton biomass, but decreased with increasing temperature and phosphorus concentrations, reflecting that peak prevalence occurred in spring when temperature and phosphorus concentrations were relatively low. In contrast, seasonally‐detrended prevalence increased with temperature, but decreased with increasing phosphorus concentrations.

Chytrids are a common component of the pelagic plankton community with sizeable biomass and removing an—at times—substantial proportion of the primary production, challenging the long‐standing underrepresentation of parasites in ecological studies.

Chytrids responded differentially to seasonal variation and long‐term trends in host density, water temperature and nutrient availability, highlighting the need to disentangle seasonal signals from long‐term changes.
Health‐related quality of life among adults with haemophilia in China: A comparison with age‐matched general population
Authors: Zhang Wenhui , Xie Shitong , Xue Feng , Liu Wei , Chen Lingling , Zhang Lei , Wu Jing , Yang Renchi
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Evaluating health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) is vital for informing the improvement of the overall health of people with haemophilia (PwH). While there is lacking such data in China and comparisons with the general population.

Aim

To evaluate the HRQoL and its associated factors among adults with haemophilia, and compare it with a sample of the general population in China.

Methods

PwH were recruited in this study using telephone‐based interviews. Demographic and clinical characteristics were first collected. HRQoL was then evaluated using the self‐reported Short Form 6‐dimensions version 2 (SF‐6Dv2) instrument. An age and gender‐matched sample of the general population in China was also included as the comparator group. Linear regression was used to assess the association between the SF‐6Dv2 utility value and the demographic and clinical variables of the patients.

Results

This study included 206 PwH (mean [SD] age: 41.36 [14.48] years) and 206 respondents from the general population. PwH reported worse levels in physical functioning, role limitation, social functioning, and mental health dimensions on SF‐6Dv2 than the general respondents. The mean (SD) utility of patients was .650 (.251), which was significantly lower than the general respondents (.786 [.183],P < .001). Being a student, having a higher monthly income, absence of comorbidities, having no target joints and requiring no treatment are independent predictors of a higher HRQoL for PwH.

Conclusion

This study provides the first practical evidence of a significantly lower level of HRQoL in PwH than in the general population in China.
Quantitative assessment of changes in skeletal muscle injury by computer‐aided analysis based on two‐dimensional ultrasonography combined with contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography and estimated by a modified semi‐quantitative scoring system: An experimental study in a contusion model
Authors: Zhao Jiaqi , Huang Hejing , Xu Qi , Pan Qian , Guo Jia
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential application of computer‐aided analysis in the quantitative assessment of changes in skeletal muscle injury in the rabbit contusion model. Forty healthy rabbits were randomly divided into control (n = 5) and contusion (n = 35) groups. Rabbits in the contusion group were used to construct a muscle contusion model induced by a hammer hitting the right gastrocnemius, while the muscles of rabbits in the control group were non‐injured. Two‐dimensional ultrasound (2D US) and contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) were performed on the rabbits that had received skeletal muscle contusion injury at 1 h, and 1, 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after injury. Afterwards, a multiscale blob feature (MBF) method was used to extract the textural features from the 2D US, and the muscle injuries were quantitatively evaluated. The eight textural parameters of skeletal muscle analysed by MBF at 1 h, and 1, 3 and 7 days post‐injury were found to be significantly higher in the contusion group than in the control group (p < .05). On Day 14, the textural parameters (e.g., greyscale mean [Mean], greyscale standard deviation [SDev], number of blobs, average size of blobs, homogeneity of distribution, periodicity of distribution [POD] and irregularity) were also evidently higher in the contusion group than in the control group (p < .05). On Day 28, Mean, SDev and POD in the contusion group were markedly higher (p < .05). After that, the microcirculation in the injured areas increased from Day 7 to Day 21 after injury, but decreased on Day 28 after injury. Thus the quantitative assessment of changes in skeletal muscle injury (SMI) using computer‐aided analysis allowed us to describe the geometric features of injured muscle fibres and the microperfusion changes estimated by the modified semi‐quantitative scoring system. This provides a scientific basis for the development of a novel approach for the evaluation of SMI and rehabilitation process.
Fabrication, physicochemical stability and gastrointestinal fate of curcumin‐loaded nanoemulsions stabilised by bovine serum albumin‐glucose conjugates with different degree of glycation
Authors: Fu Jing‐Jing , Fu Dong‐Wen , Zhang Guang‐Yao , Sun Cong , Tang Yue , Shao Zhen‐Wen , Xu Xian‐Bing , Song Liang
Published: June 2022

Bovine serum albumin (BSA) and BSA‐glucose Maillard conjugate with different degree of glycation (GBSAI and GBSAII) were used as emulsifiers to stabilised curcumin (CUR)‐loaded oil‐in‐water nanoemulsions. Nanoemulsions were stabilised by BSA with greater degree of glycation (BSA < GBSAI < GBSAII) resulting in smaller Z‐average diameter, higher zeta potential and higher encapsulation efficiency. The GBSA (especially GBSAII) conjugates significantly improved the environmental stability of nanoemulsions and enhanced the CUR retention rate during long‐time storage at 4 and 25 °C. Furthermore, BSA with a higher degree of glycation (GBSAII) was more efficiently promoted the formation of mixed micelles, thereby improving the stability and bioaccessibility of encapsulated CUR during in vitro digestion. The advantages of GBSAII‐stabilised nanoemulsions may provide a better option for efficient protection and delivery of hydrophobic ingredients.
Allele‐specific knockouts reveal a role for apontic‐like in the evolutionary loss of larval melanin pigmentation in the domesticated silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Tomihara Kenta , Andolfatto Peter , Kiuchi Takashi
Published: June 2022

The domesticated silkworm, Bombyx mori, and its wild progenitor, B. mandarina, are extensively studied as a model case of the evolutionary process of domestication. A conspicuous difference between these species is the dramatic reduction in melanin pigmentation in both larval and adult B. mori. Here we evaluate the efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9‐targeted knockouts of pigment‐related genes as a tool to understand their potential contributions to domestication‐associated melanin pigmentation loss in B. mori. To demonstrate the efficacy of targeted knockouts in B. mandarina, we generated a homozygous CRISPR/Cas9‐targeted knockout of yellow‐y. In yellow‐y knockout mutants, black body colour became lighter throughout the larval, pupal and adult stages, confirming a role for this gene in melanin pigment formation. Further, we performed allele‐specific CRISPR/Cas9‐targeted knockouts of the pigment‐related transcription factor, apontic‐like (apt‐like) in B. mori × B. mandarina F1 hybrid individuals which exhibit B. mandarina‐like larval pigmentation. Knockout of the B. mandarina allele of apt‐like in F1 embryos results in white patches on the dorsal integument of larvae, whereas corresponding knockouts of the B. mori allele consistently exhibit normal F1 larval pigmentation. These results demonstrate a contribution of apt‐like to the evolution of reduced melanin pigmentation in B. mori. Together, our results demonstrate the feasibility of CRISPR/Cas9‐targeted knockouts as a tool for understanding the genetic basis of traits associated with B. mori domestication.
Vaccines, adjuvants and key factors for mucosal immune response
Authors: Correa Victor Araujo , Portilho Amanda Izeli , De Gaspari Elizabeth
Published: June 2022

Vaccines are the most effective tool to control infectious diseases, which provoke significant morbidity and mortality rates. Most vaccines are administered through the parenteral route and can elicit a robust systemic humoral response, but they induce a weak T‐cell‐mediated immunity and are poor inducers of mucosal protection. Considering that most pathogens enter the body through mucosal surfaces, a vaccine that elicits protection in the first site of contact between the host and the pathogen is promising. However, despite the advantages of mucosal vaccines as good options to confer protection on the mucosal surface, only a few mucosal vaccines are currently approved. In this review, we discuss the impact of vaccine administration in different mucosal surfaces; how appropriate adjuvants enhance the induction of protective mucosal immunity and other factors that can influence the mucosal immune response to vaccines.
Keap1 moderates the transcription of virus induced genes through G9a‐GLP and NFκB p50 recruitment
Authors: Burns Veronica Elizabeth , Kerppola Tom Klaus
Published: June 2022

Cells must control genes that are induced by virus infection to mitigate deleterious consequences of inflammation. We investigated the mechanisms whereby Keap1 moderates the transcription of genes that are induced by Sendai virus infection in mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEFs). Keap1−/− deletions increased the transcription of virus induced genes independently of Nrf2. Keap1 moderated early virus induced gene transcription. Virus infection induced Keap1 to bind Ifnb1, Tnf and Il6, and reduced Keap1 binding at Cdkn1a and Ccng1. Virus infection induced G9a‐GLP and NFκB p50 recruitment, and H3K9me2 deposition. Keap1−/− deletions eliminated G9a‐GLP and NFκB p50 recruitment, and H3K9me2 deposition, but they did not affect NFκB p65, IRF3 or cJun recruitment. G9a‐GLP inhibitors (BIX01294, MS012, BRD4770) enhanced virus induced gene transcription in MEFs with intact Keap1, but not in MEFs with Keap1−/− deletions. G9a‐GLP inhibitors augmented Keap1 binding to virus induced genes in infected MEFs, and to cell cycle genes in uninfected MEFs. G9a‐GLP inhibitors augmented NFκB subunit recruitment in MEFs with intact Keap1. G9a‐GLP inhibitors stabilized Keap1 retention in permeabilized MEFs. G9a‐GLP lysine methyltransferase activity was required for Keap1 to moderate transcription, and it moderated Keap1 binding to chromatin. The interdependent effects of Keap1 and G9a‐GLP on the recruitment of each other and on the moderation of virus induced gene transcription constitute a feedback circuit. Keap1 and the electrophile tBHQ reduced virus induced gene transcription through different mechanisms, and they regulated the recruitment of different NFκB subunits. Characterization of the mechanisms whereby Keap1, G9a‐GLP and NFκB p50 moderate virus induced gene transcription can facilitate the development of immunomodulatory agents.
A ‘waste product’ to save the day in the field of transplantation: The evolving potential of extracellular vesicles
Authors: Lazana Ioanna , Vassilopoulos George
Published: June 2022

Graft rejection and graft‐versus‐host disease constitute the leading causes of morbidity and early mortality after solid organ and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, respectively. Despite the current advances in immunotherapy, their incidence remains significant, underlying the need for new therapies to be developed. Extracellular vesicles (EV), and particularly small EV (sEV), have emerged as significant mediators of intercellular communication and immune modulation. Depending on the parental cell, they may exert potent immunostimulatory or immunosuppressive functions, attracting a major interest in field of transplantation. An increasing number of publications, studying their role in graft dysfunction pathophysiology, early detection of graft failure and in prevention and/or therapy of graft rejection, have emerged in recent years with enthusiastic results. In this review, we discuss the role and various applications of sEV in the transplant setting and present their huge potential for clinical translation.
Microstructural and electrical features of highly conducting indium co‐doped ZnO‐based ceramics
Authors: Chen Xi , Li Guorong , Tian Tian , Ruan Xuezheng , Zheng Liaoying , Makowska‐Janusik Malgorzata , Rousseau Anthony , Kassiba Abdelhadi
Published: June 2022

In this work, we developed experimental approaches on indium co‐doped ZnO‐based ceramics from the synthesis to the characterizations and analysis of physical features in the aim to achieve the formation of highly conducting ceramics with controlled nonlinearity. Different doping molar ratios of indium were used and the synthesis of the ceramics was realized by the conventional solid‐state reaction method which was then followed by a sintering under air (A), nitrogen (N), or a mixture of nitrogen and carbon monoxide (NC) atmosphere with different reduction capabilities. The structure, morphology, electrical investigations, and the electronic transport analysis were conducted on the different ZnO co‐doped ceramics as functions of the indium incorporation and the used sintering atmosphere, A, N, or NC. Suitable indium doping of 0.3 mol% and the use of highly reducing sintering atmosphere (NC) ensure the formation of ZnO‐based ceramics with an electrical conductivity up to (103 S/cm) and a quasi‐linear behavior on the electrical characteristic I–V. We discussed the obtained performances by correlating the charge transport with the microstructure of the ceramics, the composition, and the structure of grain boundaries as well as the solubility of indium in the host ZnO ceramic grains.
Oxidative lesions and post-treatment viability attenuation of listeria monocytogenes triggered by atmospheric non-thermal plasma
Authors: Pan Yuanyuan , Cheng Jun-Hu , Sun Da-Wen
Published: June 2022

Aims

The aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of plasma-mediated oxidative stress on the post-treatment viability of Listeria monocytogenes at the physiological and molecular levels.

Methods and Results

107 CFU/ml L. monocytogenes in 10 ml phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was treated with atmospheric non-thermal plasma for 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 s respectively. Optical diagnostics using optical emission spectroscopy (OES) confirmed that dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma was a significant source of ample exogenous reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS). The development of extracellular main long-lived species was associated with plasma exposure time, accompanied by a massive accumulation of intracellular ROS in L. monocytogenes (p < 0.01). With the exception of virulence genes (hly), most oxidation resistance genes (e.g. sigB, perR, lmo2344, lmo2770 and trxA) and DNA repair gene (recA) were upregulated significantly (p < 0.05). A visible fragmentation in genomic DNA and a decline in the secretion of extracellular proteins and haemolytic activity (p < 0.01) were noticed. The quantitate oxygen consumption rates (OCRs) and extracellular acidification rates (ECARs) confirmed the viability attenuation from the aspect of energy metabolism. Survival assay in a real food system (raw milk) further suggested not only the viability attenuation, but also the resuscitation potential and safety risk of mild plasma-treated cells during post-treatment storage.

Conclusion

DBD plasma had the potential to inactivate and attenuate the virulence of L. monocytogenes, and it was recommended that plasma exposure time longer than 120 s was more suitable for attenuating viability and avoiding the recovery possibility of L. monocytogenes in raw milk within 7 days.

Significance and Impact of the Study

The current results presented a strategy to inactivate and attenuate the viability of L. monocytogenes, which could serve as a theoretical basis for better application of non-thermal plasma in food in an effort to effectively combat foodborne pathogens.
Theaflavin and its derivatives exert antibacterial action against Bacillus coagulans through adsorption to cell surface phospholipids
Authors: Sato Jun , Tomita Ayumi , Sonoda Takumi , Miyamoto Takahisa
Published: June 2022

Aims

To investigate the antibacterial effects of tea theaflavins and catechins against Bacillus coagulans and the underlying mechanism of antibacterial action.

Methods and Results

Bactericidal activities of theaflavin and its analogues were evaluated and compared with that of epigallocatechin gallate. Theaflavin derivatives exhibited high bactericidal activity at 50 μmol L−1, whereas epigallocatechin gallate did not, even at 500 μmol L−1. Furthermore, we investigated the adsorption of theaflavins to model phospholipid membranes and corresponding effects on membrane fluidity to reveal their effects on the B. coagulans cell surface. Cell membrane fluidity was decreased after treatment with theaflavin derivatives with one or more galloyl moieties. Quartz-crystal microbalance analysis showed a strong affinity of the membrane phosphatidyl glycerol (PG) bilayers for theaflavin derivatives, correlating their bactericidal activity.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that theaflavins could effectively inhibit B. coagulans by decreasing cell membrane fluidity.

Significance and Impact

Bacillus coagulans is a spore-forming heat-resistant bacterium responsible for spoilage in low-acidic beverages. Natural antimicrobial components in tea-based beverages are central to reducing microbial contamination and product quality deterioration, although mechanisms underlying their antimicrobial action remain obscure. This study highlights the inhibitory action of theaflavins on B. coagulans and their potential application in food and beverage industries.
Hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract: What the gastroenterologist needs to know
Authors: Thwaites Phoebe A , Gibson Peter R , Burgell Rebecca E
Published: June 2022

Background and Aim

Hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (hEDS) and the hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) can be challenging to diagnose and manage. Gastrointestinal symptoms and disorders of gut‐brain interaction are common in this cohort and multifactorial in origin. The primary aim of this review is to arm the gastroenterologist with a clinically useful understanding of HSD/hEDS, by exploring the association of gastrointestinal disorders with HSD/hEDS, highlighting current pathophysiological understanding and providing a pragmatic approach to managing these patients.

Methods

Literature relevant to the gastrointestinal system and hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome was systematically searched, critically appraised, and summarized.

Results

Diagnosis is based upon clinical criteria and a genetic basis is yet to be defined. The prevalence of many gut symptoms, including abdominal pain (69%vs27%,P < 0.0001), postprandial fullness (34%vs16%,P = 0.01), constipation (73%vs16%,P < 0.001), and diarrhea (47%vs9%,P < 0.001) are significantly higher in HSD/hEDS compared with non‐HSD/hEDS individuals. Disorders of gut‐brain interaction are also common, particularly functional dyspepsia. The pathophysiology of gut symptoms is poorly understood but may involve effects of connective tissue laxity and its functional consequences, and the influence of autonomic dysfunction, medication and comorbid mental health disorders. Awareness is the key to early diagnosis. Management is limited in evidence‐base but ideally should include an integrated multidisciplinary approach.

Conclusions

HSD/hEDS is a multisystemic disorder in which gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly related to disorders of gut‐brain interaction are common. Deficiencies in knowledge regarding the pathophysiological processes limit evidence‐based interventions and remain important areas for future research.
Value of prediction model in distinguishing gallbladder adenoma from cholesterol polyp
Authors: Liu Jiandong , Qian Youwen , Yang Feng , Huang Sunhua , Chen Gang , Yu Jian , Jiang Shanshan , Huang Gang
Published: June 2022

Background and Aim

Gallbladder adenomatous polyp is a pre‐cancerous neoplasm, and it is difficult to classify from cholesterol polyps before cholecystectomy. The study aimed to clarify the risk characteristics of gallbladder adenomas and establish a prediction model to differentiate gallbladder adenomas from cholesterol polyp lesions.

Methods

From May 2019 to December 2021, the patients underwent cholecystectomy in the Shanghai Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. According to the permanent pathology test, the patients were divided into adenomas and cholesterol polyps groups. All the included cases received ultrasound equipment examinations before cholecystectomy and their clinical information were completely recorded. Then the patients' baseline characteristics and ultrasound imaging variables were analyzed by logistic regression. Finally, a predictive model for gallbladder adenomas will be established and assessed based on the independent risk factors.

Results

A total of 423 cases including 296 cholesterol polyps and 127 gallbladder adenomas were analyzed in detail. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that solitary polyp lesion (OR = 2.954, 95% CI 1.759–4.960, P < 0.001), the maximal diameter of lesions (OR = 1.244, 95% CI 1.169–1.324, P < 0.001), and irregular shape of polyp lesions (OR = 5.549, 95% CI 1.979–15.560, P = 0.001) were the independent predictive factors of gallbladder adenomas. According to the results, regression equation of logit(P) = −3.828 + 1.083*number of gallbladder polyps lesions (GPLs) + 0.218*diameter of GPLs + 1.714*shape of GPLs was established. Area under the curve (AUC) was 0.828 (95% CI 0.782–0.874, P < 0.001). When logit P > 0.204, the sensitivity of estimating adenoma was 79.5%, the specificity of recognizing adenoma was 70.6%, and the whole correct ratio was 73.3%. While the AUC of diameter (10 mm) being a predictive factor in this study was only 0.790 (95% CI 0.741–0.839, P < 0.001). And the sensitivity and specificity of 10 mm as the optimal diagnostic cutoff value to diagnose adenomas were 74.8% and 65.9%, respectively.

Conclusions

The risk factors of solitary polyp lesion, larger diameter, and irregular morphology feature of polyp lesions were significantly related to gallbladder adenomas. And the predictive model established in the study can effectively identify adenomas from cholesterol polyps and help patients to select the optimal treatment protocol.
Experiences and psychosocial predictors of professional function among intensive care nurses under the shadow of Covid‐19: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Kagan Ilya , Lancman Natalie , Weisbord Irit
Published: June 2022

Background

The outbreak of the Corona virus (COVID‐19) pandemic led to a sharp rise in morbidity and hospitalizations, and a significant therapeutic burden fell on intensive care units (ICUs). Intensive care nurses reported physical and emotional stress in response to the extra workload caused by caring for critically ill COVID‐19 patients. However, at the time of publication of the study, to the best of our knowledge there have been no studies that examined uncertainty, stress, or hope in the context of functioning among intensive care nurses.

Aim

To examine: (a) the challenges of operating and managing intensive care units during the COVID‐19 pandemic among nurse managers in intensive care units, and (b) the relationships between uncertainty, stress, burnout, hope, and professional functioning among intensive care nurses during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

This mixed‐methods study was conducted in intensive care units (ICUs) at a large tertiary medical center in Israel, during February–May 2021.

Methods

The data were collected in two phases. In the first phase, qualitative data were collected from focus groups attended by 15 senior managerial nurses. The second phase involved a cross‐sectional study among 100 staff nurses working in 5 ICUs. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire.

Results

Qualitative data analysis revealed two main themes: (a) challenges of the COVID‐19 pandemic and (b) positive aspects of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The nurses reported high levels of burnout, emotional stress and uncertainty, but moderate State Hope Scale scores, and moderate levels of professional functioning. There were no statistical differences in study variables by exposure to COVID‐19 patients. State Hope Scale levels, uncertainty, and burnout variables contributed significantly and explained 46% of the variance of the professional functioning.

Conclusions

The intensity of the experiences and psych‐social phenomena, is not affected by exposure to treatment of COVID‐19 patients. The relationships between the study variables emphasize the importance of initiated and ongoing interventions to reduce uncertainty, address burnout, and strengthen hope. Improvement in these indices may lead to better ICU nurses' professional functioning and their work life well‐being.
Metabolic signatures of rhizobacteria‐induced plant growth promotion
Authors: Jeon Je‐Seung , Rybka Dominika , Carreno‐Quintero Natalia , De Vos Ric , Raaijmakers Jos M. , Etalo Desalegn W.
Published: June 2022

Various root‐colonizing bacterial species can promote plant growth and trigger systemic resistance against aboveground leaf pathogens and herbivore insects. To date, the underlying metabolic signatures of these rhizobacteria‐induced plant phenotypes are poorly understood. To identify core metabolic pathways that are targeted by growth‐promoting rhizobacteria, we used combinations of three plant species and three rhizobacterial species and interrogated plant shoot chemistry by untargeted metabolomics. A substantial part (50%–64%) of the metabolites detected in plant shoot tissue was differentially affected by the rhizobacteria. Among others, the phenylpropanoid pathway was targeted by the rhizobacteria in each of the three plant species. Differential regulation of the various branches of the phenylpropanoid pathways showed an association with either plant growth promotion or growth reduction. Overall, suppression of flavonoid biosynthesis was associated with growth promotion, while growth reduction showed elevated levels of flavonoids. Subsequent assays with 12 Arabidopsis flavonoid biosynthetic mutants revealed that the proanthocyanidin branch plays an essential role in rhizobacteria‐mediated growth promotion. Our study also showed that a number of pharmaceutically and nutritionally relevant metabolites in the plant shoot were significantly increased by rhizobacterial treatment, providing new avenues to use rhizobacteria to tilt plant metabolism towards the biosynthesis of valuable natural plant products.
Necessity and choice of therapy for Henoch–Schönlein purpura nephritis
Authors: Kurokawa Mari , Maehara Kenji , Kaku Yoshitsugu , Honjo Satoshi
Published: June 2022

Background

Henoch–Schönlein purpura nephritis often resolves spontaneously, without treatment, making decisions regarding therapeutic interventions difficult.

Methods

Fifty‐four patients who were diagnosed as having Henoch–Schönlein purpura nephritis between April 2004 and March 2018, and developed hematuria and/or proteinuria, were studied retrospectively. The observation period ended at the disappearance of hematuria or proteinuria, or the last observation date before December 2019 for each patient. Twenty‐four of the patients received no treatment (Group A), 19 underwent renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system inhibitors only (B), 4 experienced steroid pulse therapy and combination therapy only (C) and the remaining 7 received steroid pulse therapy and combination therapy following renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system inhibitors (C). Clinical characteristics were examined according to the treatment method. Survival analysis for persistent urinary abnormalities was performed according to treatment modality, with multiple treatment records created per subject, if necessary.

Results

The highest urine protein/creatinine levels were significantly higher in groups B and C than in group A. The lowest estimated glomerular filtration rate was not significantly different among the three groups. In groups A and B, proteinuria resolved in >90% of patients. Survival analysis showed that steroid pulse therapy and combination therapy was not related to the better resolution of hematuria or proteinuria than renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system inhibitors.

Conclusions

Several patients with Henoch–Schönlein purpura nephritis went into remission either without treatment or with renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system inhibitors alone. The treatment plan for patients with Henoch–Schönlein purpura nephritis needs to be determined carefully.
Evaluation of error across natural gas pipeline incidents
Authors: Williams Darien Alexander , Glasmeier Amy K.
Published: June 2022

This paper demonstrates how qualitative analysis can be a novel means of investigating theories of error and causation in natural gas pipeline incidents. Qualitative analysis offers unique opportunities to understand process, interactions, and the role of context in identifying active error and latent conditions in incident causation. Through the coding of text from 24 onshore natural gas pipeline incident reports on leaks and explosions in the United States and Canada, our findings reveal a proportion of active and latent errors consistent with other hazardous infrastructure contexts (roughly 3:1 latent‐active ratio across 817 coded errors). These findings underscore the robustness of extant error theory and support the argument for documenting multiple, connected causes of disaster in aggregate. Conclusions highlight the utility of in‐depth case analyses and critique present pipeline incident database aggregation. Our interpretation provides a means to convey complex causation in aggregate form thus enabling more nuanced future qualitative and qualitative analyses.