bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does long‐term soil warming affect microbial element limitation? A test by short‐term assays of microbial growth responses to labile C, N and P additions
Authors: Shi Chupei , Urbina‐Malo Carolina , Tian Ye , Heinzle Jakob , Kwatcho Kengdo Steve , Inselsbacher Erich , Borken Werner , Schindlbacher Andreas , Wanek Wolfgang
Published: January 2023

Increasing global temperatures have been reported to accelerate soil carbon (C) cycling, but also to promote nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) dynamics in terrestrial ecosystems. However, warming can differentially affect ecosystem C, N and P dynamics, potentially intensifying elemental imbalances between soil resources, plants and soil microorganisms. Here, we investigated the effect of long‐term soil warming on microbial resource limitation, based on measurements of microbial growth (18O incorporation into DNA) and respiration after C, N and P amendments. Soil samples were taken from two soil depths (0–10, 10–20 cm) in control and warmed (>14 years warming, +4°C) plots in the Achenkirch soil warming experiment. Soils were amended with combinations of glucose‐C, inorganic/organic N and inorganic/organic P in a full factorial design, followed by incubation at their respective mean field temperatures for 24 h. Soil microbes were generally C‐limited, exhibiting 1.8‐fold to 8.8‐fold increases in microbial growth upon C addition. Warming consistently caused soil microorganisms to shift from being predominately C limited to become C‐P co‐limited. This P limitation possibly was due to increased abiotic P immobilization in warmed soils. Microbes further showed stronger growth stimulation under combined glucose and inorganic nutrient amendments compared to organic nutrient additions. This may be related to a prolonged lag phase in organic N (glucosamine) mineralization and utilization compared to glucose. Soil respiration strongly positively responded to all kinds of glucose‐C amendments, while responses of microbial growth were less pronounced in many of these treatments. This highlights that respiration–though easy and cheap to measure—is not a good substitute of growth when assessing microbial element limitation. Overall, we demonstrate a significant shift in microbial element limitation in warmed soils, from C to C‐P co‐limitation, with strong repercussions on the linkage between soil C, N and P cycles under long‐term warming.
Physicochemical and structural properties and digestibility of rice flour with different moisture extrusion cooking
Authors: Lai Sixing , Zhang Tingting , Wang Yong , Ouyang Kefan , Hu Hao , Hu Xing , Wang Fengxin , Xiong Hua , Zhao Qiang
Published: January 2023

Extruded rice flour with different feed moisture content (FMC, 14%, 16%, 18%, 20%, 22%) were obtained by a twin‐screw with two co‐rotating screws of 65 mm diameter at 120 kg h−1 feed rate and 120 rad min−1 screw speed. The results showed that the higher the FMC, the smoother the extrudate surface, the lighter the colour, and the lower the radial expansion; the water absorption index increased whereas the water solubility index was in opposite as FMC increased. The bound water was the major fraction in extruded rice flour and with FMC increasing, a shift to a long relaxation time of the peak of T21 could be found accompanied by the signal intensity enhancement. Extrusion did not alter the chemical structure of starch but turned crystal type from A to V. The rice flour possessed better digestibility after extrusion, but higher FMC mitigated the digestion by improving the branching of the starch structure and weakening the degradation of the protein.
Valorisation of food processing wastes using PEF and its economic advances – recent update
Authors: Velusamy Monica , Rajan Anbarasan , Radhakrishnan Mahendran
Published: January 2023

Food processing is an emerging industrial sector that applies new technologies to process foods efficiently. During processing, food industries produce a substantial amount of by‐products as waste. Disposal of these wastes remains a problem and causes environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. However, novel food processing technology like pulsed electric field‐assisted extraction (PEFAE) has the potential to utilise these wastes as a source of bioactive compounds and extract valuable compounds in a shorter period with minimal use of solvents and energy. This review covers the basics of pulsed electric field (PEF) and its effect on bioactive compound extraction yield and quality. Furthermore, the article compares the PEF treatment energy and extraction efficiency with other non‐conventional extraction methods to better make the reader understand in terms of selecting the suitable processing method. However, the extraction yield and process efficiency depend highly on the processing parameters. Hence, the article also explains the various kinetic models involved in PEF‐assisted food waste valorisation to control the process parameters during treatment.
Jabuticaba (Myrciaria jaboticaba) peel and seed powder associated with bioprocessing improves functional and nutritional quality of whole‐wheat bread
Authors: Faller Ana Luísa Kremer , Duarte Paula Andrés , Paes Jade de Menezes , Kamp Fernanda , Fialho Eliane , Monteiro Mariana
Published: January 2023

Oven‐dried jabuticaba peel and seed powder (JPSP) was used as a functional ingredient to nutritionally improve whole‐wheat bread in combination with enzymatic bioprocessing for increasing polyphenol content. JPSP had low protein and lipid but high dietary fibre content. The antioxidant capacity (AC) of JPSP was reduced by 64% after 90 days of storage, but the values are higher than those reported for other fruits. JPSP incorporation into bread increased fibre content (1.6‐fold), AC (1.8‐fold), and phenolics content (2.0‐fold). Combining JPSP with bioprocessing increased soluble ferulic acid content by 115%. The addition of JPSP improved anthocyanin incorporation and enhanced the release of a variety of phenolics, but enzymatic bioprocessing reduced anthocyanin content. All tested breads showed good overall aspect scores (>5.0). JPSP incorporation improved the nutritional quality and increased the fibre content of whole‐wheat bread, whereas bioprocessing increased soluble phenolics content. The food industry could use the association of JPSP supplementation with bioprocessing to develop breads with functional properties.
Virgin coconut oil oleogel: gelation mechanism, rheological, structural and thermal properties
Authors: Thomas Pinchu Elizabath , Saravanan Madanagopalan , Prabhasankar Pichan
Published: January 2023

A monocomponent oleogel was prepared by combining virgin coconut oil (VCO) with stearic acid (SA) as a structuring agent. The results showed that higher gelator concentrations significantly enhanced the oil binding capacity. The microstructural and thermodynamic properties revealed that higher SA content resulted in a stronger gel network structure. The rheological properties confirmed the pseudoplastic or shear thinning nature of oleogels, as viscosity decreased with increasing shear rate. Moreover, the temperature sweep test emphasised that SA concentration influenced the gelling point. Additionally, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra documented that oleogelation occurred due to the physical interaction of oleogel components as a result of a supramolecular assembly of the gelator. Collectively, the obtained results suggested that solid fat alternatives can be prepared from VCO, which will pave the way for the production of healthy bakery products to promote health benefits through straightforward oil structuring techniques.
Productivity dynamics of remote work during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Morikawa Masayuki
Published: January 2023

This study documents the productivity dynamics of remote work during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Japan. The mean productivity at home has improved by more than 10 percentage points in the past year, although it is still approximately 20% lower than when working in the office. Selection effects and learning effects contributed almost equally to the productivity growth. Even after adjusting for additional working hours from reduced commuting, the conclusion of relatively low productivity at home remains unchanged. The percentage of employees who want to continue frequent remote work after the pandemic has increased substantially, despite its lower productivity.
What matters most for academic achievement? A cross‐cultural study on undergraduate students
Authors: Uddin Md. Aftab , Howlader Mohammad Harisur Rahman , Khaled Moslehuddin Chowdhury , Nusrat Mansura , Das Anupam Kumar
Published: January 2023

This study aims to unearth the influence of students’ intelligence (IQ) on their academic achievement (AA) in a mediated mechanism. Following the theoretical essence, the present study analysed cross‐sectional data in Bangladesh and China using a self‐administered survey. A sample of 287 from Bangladesh (study 1) and 317 from China (study 2) showed that IQ does not influence creativity (CR) but AA. In effect, the direct and indirect (mediating) effects of CR on AA are not supported. Surprisingly, the impact of IQ on CR is significant through the mediating effect of creative self‐belief. The findings contribute to advancing and extending the knowledge gap in developing countries as these observed variables were witnessed as being Western‐biased. Furthermore, this study also contributes to formulating policies for higher educational policymakers to involve students in positive initiatives so that they can feel tempted to engage in creative practice.
Recurrent diabetic foot ulcers: Results of a maximal multidisciplinary approach including reconstructive foot/ankle surgery
Authors: Brekelmans Wouter , van Laar Wilbert , Tolen Nicole J. , Hoencamp Rigo , Borger van der Burg Boudewijn L. S.
Published: January 2023

The diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) and Charcot Neuroarthropathy (CN) are serious complications of diabetes mellitus in which wound closure is complex to achieve. Treating recurrent DFU in patients with a combination of infection, ischemia, and deformities is extremely challenging and this group of patients has a very poor outcome. This case series describes the outcomes of patients with a recurrent DFU and CN, with a mean SINBAD score of 4 and of which 40% had a TCS of D3, using a multidisciplinary protocol that includes reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. In 24/35 (69%) of patients, wound closure was achieved after a mean of 75 days postoperatively. The mean ulcer‐free period was 358 days. The mean number of interventions was 6.7 (range 3–9). Post treatment 27/35 (77%) of patients was mobile, without additional amputation or ulcer recurrence. This study shows that wound closure and a long ulcer‐free period can be achieved in patients with a DFU and CN and its multifactorial underlying diseases when treated in a multidisciplinary team, including reconstructive foot and ankle surgery.
Friend Zone Forever? The Essence of and Justifications for the EU's Decision‐Making Autonomy
Authors: Öberg Marja‐Liisa
Published: January 2023

The expansion of the European Union's (EU) regulatory sphere creates conflicts of sovereignty between the EU and its member states, and third countries that lack a possibility to participate in the making of those laws and policies. The conflict is epitomised in the concept of the Union's decision‐making autonomy. Albeit stringently applied, the concept is ambiguous and undefined. This article endeavours to unfold its meaning, use and significance and examine whether its rigid nature is justified in light of the Union's aims to expand its regulatory sphere. The article argues that the ultimate rationale of decision‐making autonomy is to ensure the effectiveness of the EU legal order and to compensate for the member states' loss of sovereignty, investment and risk‐taking. Insofar as non‐member states do not demonstrate similar commitment to the EU, exclusion from decision‐making is justified to retain the privilege and attractiveness of membership.
Quality of life in children and adolescents with alopecia areata—A systematic review
Authors: Prendke Mona , Kanti‐Schmidt Varvara , Wilborn Doris , Hillmann Kathrin , Singh Rashmi , Vogt Annika , Kottner Jan , Blume‐Peytavi Ulrike
Published: January 2023

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune‐mediated non‐scarring hair loss whose stigmatizing effect may have a severe psychosocial impact. AA has been reported to be correlated with bullying, reduced quality of life (QoL) and psychiatric comorbidities. The effect of AA on QoL in adult patients has been systematically reviewed and found to be detrimental. No systematic evaluation of QoL in children with AA has been performed. The aim of this review is to systematically describe QoL in the child and adolescent population affected by AA. A systematic review of multiple databases and grey literature sources was conducted. Search terms included, but were not limited to, alopecia areata and quality of life. Only studies reporting results on health‐related QoL in children and adolescents were included. We evaluated the studies regarding the risk of bias, and conceptual rigour concerning the quality of life and performed a descriptive synthesis of findings. Eight studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing 358 participants with AA and 64 healthy peers. Seven studies were quantitative using four different standardized questionnaires and scores to measure QoL. One study used a qualitative design. All studies described impairment of children and adolescents' QoL by AA. The most consistently affected QoL domain was embarrassment and self‐consciousness. Further psychosocial implications of AA included bullying and limiting participation in school or spare time activities. Existing evidence indicates a substantial impact of AA on QoL in children. In daily clinical practice as well as for developing new treatments QoL in paediatric AA plays a critical role. It should be considered a key outcome in clinical research and decision‐making.
A single silk‐ and multiple pollen‐expressed PMEs at the Ga1 locus modulate maize unilateral cross‐incompatibility
Authors: Zhang Zhaogui , Li Kai , Zhang Huairen , Wang Qiuxia , Zhao Li , Liu Juan , Chen Huabang
Published: January 2023

The Gametophyte factor1 (Ga1) locus in maize confers unilateral cross‐incompatibility (UCI), and it is controlled by both pollen and silk‐specific determinants. Although the Ga1 locus has been reported for more than a century and is widely utilized in maize breeding programs, only the pollen‐specific ZmGa1P has been shown to function as a male determinant; thus, the genomic structure of the Ga1 locus and all the determinants that control UCI at this locus have not yet been fully characterized. Here, we used map‐based cloning to confirm the determinants of UCI at the Ga1 locus and maize pan‐genome sequence data to characterize the genomic structure of the Ga1 locus. The Ga1 locus comprises one silk‐expressed pectin methylesterase gene (PME) (ZmGa1F) and eight pollen‐expressed PMEs (ZmGa1P and ZmGa1PL1‐7). Knockout of ZmGa1F in Ga1/Ga1 lines leads to the complete loss of the female barrier function. The expression of individual ZmGa1PL genes in a ga1/ga1 background endows ga1 pollen with the ability to overcome the female barrier of the Ga1 locus. These findings, combined with genomic data and genetic analyses, indicate that the Ga1 locus is modulated by a single female determinant and multiple male determinants, which are tightly linked. The results of this study provide valuable insights into the genomic structure of the Ga2 and Tcb1 loci and will aid applications of these loci in maize breeding programs.
Analysis of pathogen distribution and antimicrobial resistance at infected sites in plastic surgery
Authors: Jiang Fengli , Su Xueshang , Dai Yuduo , Shen Hang , Hu Jintian , Wu Lingsong , Wu Yuanyuan , Zhan Sien
Published: January 2023

Objective

By analyzing the distribution and drug resistance of common pathogen in different sites in plastic surgery to provide reference for clinicians to choose the best antibacterial treatment plan.

Methods

Pathogens of postoperative infection in plastic surgery from January 2011 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed to determine the species and quantity, and to access the trend of each pathogen's detection rate. The antibiotic sensitivity and distribution characteristics of common pathogens were studied in conjunction with the site of infection.

Results

A total of 1709 bacterial strains were detected, including 1244 gram‐positive bacterial strains and 465 gram‐negative bacterial strains. The main pathogen of perineum was Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), while Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) was the most common pathogen in the other infected sites. The detection rate of methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and methicillin‐resistant coagulase‐negative staphylococcus (MRCNS) was on the rise from 2011 to 2021. No S. aureus and coagulase‐negative staphylococcus (CoNS) strains were resistant to vancomycin. The sensitive rate of S. aureus from all parts and CoNS from all sites except lower limbs and mandible was higher than 80% to linezolid. The resistance rate of S. aureus and CoNS in all parts to penicillin, clindamycin, and erythromycin was high. The susceptibility rate of CoNS in lower mandible was high to gentamicin.

Conclusions

Staphylococcus aureus was the primary pathogen of gram‐positive bacteria in all site of plastic surgery except perineum, followed by CoNS. The distribution and drug resistance of pathogen in different infection sites were different. We should formulate more accurate and reasonable antibacterial programs according to drug resistance results of various parts to reduce the emergence of resistant strains and effectively prevent and control infection.
Methodological quality of dignity‐related patient reported outcome measures used in acute hospital settings: A systematic review using the COSMIN methodology
Authors: Fuseini Abdul‐Ganiyu , Redley Bernice , Rawson Helen , Ley Lenore , Kerr Debra
Published: January 2023

Aims and Objective

The aim of this systematic review was to examine the methodological quality of dignity‐related patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) used to measure patients' dignity during acute hospitalisation using the Consensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) methodology for systematic review of PROMs.

Background

Previous scoping review studies on the methodological quality of dignity‐related PROMs lack specificity for dignity during acute hospital admission. They included PROMs that were developed to measure constructs of care other than patient dignity or designed to measure dignity in contexts outside of the acute hospital setting.

Study Design

A systematic review based on COSMIN methodology.

Methods

A systematic search was undertaken using five databases (CINAHL Complete, Medline Complete, EMBASE, PsycINFo and AgeLine) for articles published between 2000 and 2022. Relevant papers were identified using strict adherence to eligibility criteria, and studies that included development of dignity‐related PROMs for use in acute hospital settings were selected. Two reviewers independently screened the identified papers, extracted data and examined the quality of studies.

Results

Six papers met the inclusion criteria. Two PROMs, the 25‐item Patient Dignity Inventory and the 34‐item Inpatient Dignity Scale, met the COSMIN quality criteria because of their sufficient quality of evidence for content validity and reliable internal consistency. None of the PROMs met the quality criteria for assessment of measurement error, criterion validity, cross‐cultural validity and responsiveness.

Conclusion

We recommend the Patient Dignity Inventory and the Inpatient Dignity Scale as the PROMs of choice for evaluating patients' dignity and/or dignified care during acute hospital admissions. These PROMs were developed using robust procedures with sufficient overall quality for content validity, internal consistency reliability and other measurement properties, and with moderate to high quality of evidence for these measurement properties. Researchers and clinicians who wish to use other dignity‐related PROMs identified in this review should consider the methodological limitations of these PROMs, as highlighted in the present systematic review.

Relevance to clinical practice

The review findings will guide healthcare professionals about their choice of patient reported outcome measures for evaluating patients' dignity or dignified care during acute hospitalisation.
Diagnosis of HDV: From virology to non‐invasive markers of fibrosis
Authors: Majeed Nehna Abdul , Hitawala Asif A. , Heller Theo , Koh Christopher
Published: January 2023

Hepatitis D viral infection in humans is a disease that requires the establishment of hepatitis B, relying on hepatitis B surface Ag and host cellular machinery to replicate and propagate the infection. Since its discovery in 1977, substantial progress has been made to better understand the hepatitis D viral life cycle, pathogenesis and modes of transmission along with expanding on clinical knowledge related to prevention, diagnosis, monitoring and treatment. The availability of serologic diagnostic assays for hepatitis D infection has evolved over time with current widespread availability, improved detection and standardized reporting. With human migration, the epidemiology of hepatitis D infection has changed over time. Thus, the ability to use diagnostic assays remains essential to monitor the global impact of hepatitis D infection. Separately, while liver biopsy remains the gold standard for the staging of this rapidly progressive and severe form of chronic viral hepatitis, there is an unmet need for clinical monitoring of chronic hepatitis D infection for management of progressive disease. Thus, exploration of the utility of non‐invasive fibrosis markers in hepatitis D is ongoing. In this review, we discuss the virology, the evolution of diagnostics and the development of non‐invasive markers for the detection and monitoring of fibrosis in patients with hepatitis D infection.
ENHANCED GRAVITROPISM 2 coordinates molecular adaptations to gravistimulation in the elongation zone of barley roots
Authors: Guo Li , Klaus Alina , Baer Marcel , Kirschner Gwendolyn K. , Salvi Silvio , Hochholdinger Frank
Published: January 2023

Root gravitropism includes gravity perception in the root cap, signal transduction between root cap and elongation zone, and curvature response in the elongation zone. The barley (Hordeum vulgare) mutant enhanced gravitropism 2 (egt2) displays a hypergravitropic root phenotype.

We compared the transcriptomic reprogramming of the root cap, the meristem, and the elongation zone of wild‐type (WT) and egt2 seminal roots upon gravistimulation in a time‐course experiment and identified direct interaction partners of EGT2 by yeast‐two‐hybrid screening and bimolecular fluorescence complementation validation.

We demonstrated that the elongation zone is subjected to most transcriptomic changes after gravistimulation. Here, 33% of graviregulated genes are also transcriptionally controlled by EGT2, suggesting a central role of this gene in controlling the molecular networks associated with gravitropic bending. Gene co‐expression analyses suggested a role of EGT2 in cell wall and reactive oxygen species‐related processes, in which direct interaction partners of EGT2 regulated by EGT2 and gravity might be involved.

Taken together, this study demonstrated the central role of EGT2 and its interaction partners in the networks controlling root zone‐specific transcriptomic reprogramming of barley roots upon gravistimulation. These findings can contribute to the development of novel root idiotypes leading to improved crop performance.
Detecting anomalous experiences in the community: The Transpersonal Experiences Questionnaire (TEQ)
Authors: Heriot‐Maitland Charles , Vitoratou Silia , Peters Emmanuelle , Hermans Karlijn , Wykes Til , Brett Caroline
Published: January 2023

Objectives

There is growing recognition of the value of researching anomalous experiences in the general population to aid our understanding of the psychosis continuum. There are key differences in aims, foci and epistemologies of existing measures, with varying utility for specific research designs. This study addresses gaps in the literature by developing a measure of anomalous experiences with utility for longitudinal (time‐sensitive) research, and with particular reliability for people towards the upper (high scoring) end of the continuum.

Methods

An online sample was recruited from the general population to provide questionnaire data for two study parts: (A) item selection and (B) psychometric evaluation. For Part A, both classical test theory and item response theory methods were used to select which items to be included from an initial pool of 57, generated from individuals with persistent anomalous experiences. For Part B, psychometric properties of the resulting measure were evaluated using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis and tests of reliability and validity.

Results

Scores were provided by 532 participants, from which a 19‐item scale, the Transpersonal Experiences Questionnaire (TEQ), was developed. The TEQ was found to be a unidimensional scale, with satisfactory internal consistency (0.85), good test–retest reliability and convergent validity.

Conclusions

The TEQ can be used as a unidimensional scale to detect anomalous experiences in the general population, with particular reliability for people with higher incidence of these experiences.
Kaposi sarcoma in three pediatric liver transplantation recipients
Authors: Cordeiro Catarina , Ferreira Sandra , Nobre Susana , Cunha Catarina , Julião Maria José , Brito Manuel , Gonçalves Isabel
Published: January 2023

Background

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is an endothelial cell tumor, rare in children. It is 200 times more frequent after solid organ transplantation than in the general population.

Methods

We report three cases of pediatric patients who developed KS after liver transplantation (LT).

Results

Case 1, a 4‐year‐old boy undergoing LT due to familial intrahepatic cholestasis. Five months after LT, he presented with fever, dyspnea, and cough with enlarged lymph nodes and splenomegaly, anemia, thrombocytopenia, elevated liver enzymes, and positive EBV viral load. Lymph node biopsy diagnosed KS with an elevated HHV8 viral load. Case 2, a 4‐year‐old boy who underwent LT due to secondary biliary cirrhosis resulting from extrahepatic biliary atresia. Two years later, graft dysfunction was noticed with positive EBV viral load, thrombocytopenia, massive cervical lymph node enlargement, and splenomegaly. Lymph node biopsy diagnosed KS, Castleman's disease, and plasmablastic lymphoma related to HHV8 infection. Case 3, a 15‐month‐old girl, who received two LT due to biliary cirrhosis. Six months later, she presented with diarrhea, abdominal distension, anemia, thrombocytopenia, enlarged lymph nodes, splenomegaly, and positive CMV viral load. Axillary lymph node biopsy diagnosed KS and HHV8 infection was confirmed. In all three cases, tacrolimus was discontinued and, after diagnosis, sirolimus was started. All recovered without relapse and have a good graft function.

Conclusions

Kaposi sarcoma is a rare disease post‐LT in children. Recognizing keywords and early diagnosis is crucial for timely treatment and survival.
Differences in firearm storage practices among United States military servicemembers who have and have not disclosed suicidal thoughts or attended behavioral health sessions
Authors: Anestis Michael D. , Bond Allison E. , Capron Daniel W. , Bryan AnnaBelle O. , Bryan Craig J.
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Two‐thirds of military suicides are by firearm, and unsafe storage increases the risk of suicide. Understanding who is at risk for suicide, their interactions with behavioral healthcare, and their firearm storage habits have implications for suicide prevention.

Method

Probability‐based sampling was used. Inclusion criteria were current military service and firearm ownership. Analyses focused on those who endorsed past year (n = 180) or past month suicidal ideation (n = 85).

Results

Servicemembers with undisclosed past year ideation stored firearms at home more often and with a locking device less often. Servicemembers with past year ideation who did not attend recent behavioral health sessions stored firearms with a locking device and loaded less often. Servicemembers with undisclosed suicidal ideation in the past month stored firearms with a locking device less often. Servicemembers with past month ideation who have not attended recent behavioral health sessions stored firearms with a locking device and loaded less often.

Conclusions

Servicemembers experiencing undisclosed suicidal ideation and who are not receiving treatment generally have more ready access to firearms. Safe firearm storage messaging needs to be disseminated in a manner that shifts social norms around firearm storage, whether or not suicide risk is known.
What is the Place for Megachurches? A Comparison of 22 American Cities Based on the Causes ofEffects Approach1
Authors: Pruisken Insa
Published: January 2023

The success of megachurches in America is often traced back to their strategic ability of mobilizing new members in a competitive, religious marketplace. This paper shifts the attention to the push factors of megachurch success. It develops a causes of effects approach, in which local place‐based conditions in 22 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) are compared and related to megachurches. First, correspondence analysis (CA) is used to take into account a large set of explanatory conditions such as religious and ethnic group affiliations, social structural conditions as well as value orientations. CA reveals that megachurches are typically successful in MSAs characterized by an evangelical hegemony. Second, qualitative comparative analysis shows that population growth and suburbanization are necessary conditions for a high share of megachurches. An analysis of sufficient conditions leads to three propositions: Megachurches grow in cities (1) where a large closed evangelical community exists; (2) where a large upward oriented Christian immigrant community exists; (3) and in tolerant (and educated) areas—in conjuncture with the presence of a larger community of Protestants.
Characterization of two new HLA class I alleles: HLA‐B*35:572 and HLA‐C*04:491
Authors: Moya‐Quiles María Rosa , Muro Manuel
Published: January 2023

HLA‐B*35:572 and HLA‐C*04:491, two novel HLA class I alleles detected by next‐generation sequencing.
Plasma transfusion–transmission of Zika virus in mice and macaques
Authors: Van Rompay Koen K. A. , Coffey Lark L. , Yee JoAnn L. , Singapuri Anil , Stuart Jackson , Lanteri Marion C. , Santa Maria Felicia , Lu Kai , Singh Inderdeep , Bakkour Sonia , Stone Mars , Williamson Phillip C. , Muench Marcus O. , Busch Michael P. , Simmons Graham
Published: January 2023

Background

Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemics with infections in pregnant women are associated with severe neurological disease in newborns. Although an arbovirus, ZIKV is also blood transfusion‐transmitted (TT). Greater knowledge of the efficiency of ZIKV TT would aid decisions on testing and pathogen reduction technologies (PRT).

Study Design and Methods

Plasma units from ZIKV RNA‐reactive blood donors were used to study infectivity in vitro, in mice, and in macaques. Furthermore, plasma units were subjected to PRT using amotosalen/ultraviolet light A (A/UVA) before transfusion.

Results

In vitro infectivity of ZIKV RNA‐reactive plasma varied between 100 and 1000 international units (IU) of ZIKV RNA. Immunodeficient mice were more sensitive with as low as 32 IU sufficient to infect 50% of mice. 50–5500 IU of RNA led to TT in macaques using dose escalation of three different RNA‐positive, seronegative plasma units. In contrast, RNA‐reactive units collected postseroconversion were not infectious in macaques, even at a dose of 9 million IU RNA. After A/UVA PRT, transfusion of plasma containing up to 18 million IU was no longer infectious in vitro and did not result in ZIKV TT in macaques.

Conclusion

Significant risks of ZIKV TT are likely confined to a relatively short viremic window before seroconversion, and that sensitive nucleic acid amplification testing likely identifies the majority of infectious plasma. PRT was demonstrated to be effective at preventing ZIKV TT. Considering that there is no approved ZIKV vaccine, these data are relevant to mitigate the risk of TT during the future ZIKV outbreaks.
Comparison of peripheral and cerebral vascular function between premenopausal, early and late postmenopausal females
Authors: Ruediger Stefanie L. , Pizzey Faith K. , Koep Jodie L. , Coombes Jeff S. , Askew Christopher D. , Bailey Tom G.
Published: January 2023

The risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease increases in ageing females, coinciding with the onset of menopause. Differences in peripheral and cerebrovascular function across menopausal stages, however, are poorly characterized. The aim of this study was to compare peripheral and cerebrovascular function between healthy premenopausal (PRE), early (1–6 years after final menstrual period; E‐POST) and late (>6 years after final menstrual period; L‐POST) postmenopausal females. We also explored the association between reproductive hormones, NO bioavailability and cerebrovascular function. In 39 females (40–65 years of age), we measured arterial stiffness, brachial artery flow‐mediated dilatation, and cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) to hypercapnia in the middle (MCAv) and internal (ICA) carotid arteries. Follicle‐stimulating hormone, estradiol, progesterone and plasma nitrate and nitrite concentrations were also measured. Years since final menstrual period (PRE, 0 ± 0 years; E‐POST, 3 ± 1 years; L‐POST, 11 ± 4 years; P < 0.001) and estradiol levels (PRE, 145.5 ± 65.6 pg ml−1; E‐POSTm 30.2 ± 81.2 pg ml−1; L‐POST, 7.7 ± 11.3 pg ml−1; P < 0.001) were different between groups. All groups exceeded the guidelines for recommended physical activity. There were no group differences in blood pressure (P = 0.382), arterial stiffness (P = 0.129), flow‐mediated dilatation (P = 0.696) or MCAv CVR (P = 0.442). The ICA CVR blood flow response was lower in PRE compared with L‐POST (26.5 ± 19.2 vs. 47.8 ± 12.6%; P = 0.010), but after adjusting for age these differences were no longer present. Flow‐mediated dilatation (r = 0.313, P = 0.105) and ICA CVR (r = −0.154, P = 0.495) were not associated with the estradiol concentration. There were no associations between the estradiol concentration and NO bioavailability. These results suggest that in healthy, physically active early and late postmenopausal females, vascular and cerebrovascular function is generally well preserved.
Crosstalk between biochemical signalling network architecture and trafficking governs AMPAR dynamics in synaptic plasticity
Authors: Bell Miriam K. , Rangamani Padmini
Published: January 2023

Synaptic plasticity involves modification of both biochemical and structural components of neurons. Many studies have revealed that the change in the number density of the glutamatergic receptor AMPAR at the synapse is proportional to synaptic weight update; an increase in AMPAR corresponds to strengthening of synapses while a decrease in AMPAR density weakens synaptic connections. The dynamics of AMPAR are thought to be regulated by upstream signalling, primarily the calcium–CaMKII pathway, trafficking to and from the synapse, and influx from extrasynaptic sources. Previous work in the field of deterministic modelling of CaMKII dynamics has assumed bistable kinetics, while experiments and rule‐based modelling have revealed that CaMKII dynamics can be either monostable or ultrasensitive. This raises the following question: how does the choice of model assumptions involving CaMKII dynamics influence AMPAR dynamics at the synapse? To answer this question, we have developed a set of models using compartmental ordinary differential equations to systematically investigate contributions of different signalling and trafficking variations, along with their coupled effects, on AMPAR dynamics at the synaptic site. We find that the properties of the model including network architecture describing different stability features of CaMKII and parameters that capture the endocytosis and exocytosis of AMPAR significantly affect the integration of fast upstream species by slower downstream species. Furthermore, we predict that the model outcome, as determined by bound AMPAR at the synaptic site, depends on (1) the choice of signalling model (bistable CaMKII or monostable CaMKII dynamics), (2) trafficking versus influx contributions and (3) frequency of stimulus.

image

Key points

The density of AMPA receptors (AMPARs) at the postsynaptic density of the synapse provides a readout of synaptic plasticity, which involves crosstalk between complex biochemical signalling networks including CaMKII dynamics and trafficking pathways including exocytosis and endocytosis.

Here we build a model that integrates CaMKII dynamics and AMPAR trafficking to explore this crosstalk. We compare different models of CaMKII that result in monostable or bistable kinetics and their impact on AMPAR dynamics.

Our results show that AMPAR density depends on the coupling between aspects of biochemical signalling and trafficking. Specifically, assumptions regarding CaMKII dynamics and its stability features can alter AMPAR density at the synapse.

Our model also predicts that the kinetics of trafficking versus influx of AMPAR from the extrasynaptic space can further impact AMPAR density. Thus, the contributions of both signalling and trafficking should be considered in computational models.
Fog-Induced Alteration in Airborne Microbial Community: a Study over Central Indo-Gangetic Plain in India
Authors: Saikh Shahina Raushan , Das Sanat Kumar
Published: January 2023

Fog was investigated in the present study as a cause of alteration in the airborne microbial community. Occurrences of fog were responsible for an increase in airborne microbial loading (36%) over central IGP in India due to the easy availability of nutrients and water in the air and dimming of harmful solar radiation.
Cre/
lox
-Mediated CRISPRi Library Reveals Core Genome of a Type I Methanotroph
Methylotuvimicrobium buryatense
5GB1C
Authors: Cheng Minggen , Pei Dongmei , He Lian , Fei Qiang , Yan Xin
Published: January 2023

Due to their key role in methane cycling and their industrial potential, methanotrophs have drawn increasing attention. Genome-wide experimental approaches for gene-phenotype mapping accelerate our understanding and engineering of a bacterium.
IMC29 Plays an Important Role in
Toxoplasma
Endodyogeny and Reveals New Components of the Daughter-Enriched IMC Proteome
Authors: Back Peter S. , Moon Andy S. , Pasquarelli Rebecca R. , Bell Hannah N. , Torres Juan A. , Chen Allan L. , Sha Jihui , Vashisht Ajay A. , Wohlschlegel James A. , Bradley Peter J.
Published: January 2023

The inner membrane complex (IMC) is a conserved structure across the Apicomplexa phylum, which includes obligate intracellular parasites that cause toxoplasmosis, malaria, and cryptosporidiosis. The IMC is critical for the parasite to maintain its intracellular lifestyle, particularly in providing a scaffold for daughter bud formation during parasite replication.
Small-Molecule Inhibitor of Flaviviral NS3-NS5 Interaction with Broad-Spectrum Activity and Efficacy
In Vivo
Authors: Celegato Marta , Sturlese Mattia , Vasconcelos Costa Vivian , Trevisan Marta , Lallo Dias Angélica Samer , Souza Passos Ingredy Beatriz , Queiroz-Junior Celso Martins , Messa Lorenzo , Favaro Annagiulia , Moro Stefano , Teixeira Mauro Martins , Loregian Arianna , Mercorelli Beatrice
Published: January 2023

More than one-third of the human population is at risk of infection by different mosquito-borne flaviviruses. Despite this, no specific antiviral drug is currently available.
Influence of Hormonal Contraceptive Use and HIV on Cervicovaginal Cytokines and Microbiota in Malawi
Authors: Haddad Lisa B. , Tang Jennifer H. , Davis Nicole L. , Kourtis Athena P. , Chinula Lameck , Msika Albans , Tegha Gerald , Hosseinipour Mina C. , Nelson Julie A. E. , Hobbs Marcia M. , Gajer Pawel , Ravel Jacques , De Paris Kristina
Published: January 2023

The results of the Evidence for Contraceptive Options and HIV Outcomes (ECHO) trial, the first large randomized controlled clinical trial comparing the HIV acquisition risk of women receiving DMPA, the levonorgestrel (LNG) implant, or the copper intrauterine device (IUD), did not reveal an increased risk of HIV acquisition for women on any of these three contraceptives. Our study results confirm that the two different progestin-based hormonal contraceptives DMPA and levonogestrel will not increase the risk for HIV infection.
Risk Factors for Carbapenem-Resistant
Enterobacterales
Clinical Treatment Failure
Authors: Rebold Nicholas , Lagnf Abdalhamid M. , Alosaimy Sara , Holger Dana J. , Witucki Paige , Mannino Andrew , Dierker Michelle , Lucas Kristen , Kunz Coyne Ashlan J. , El Ghali Amer , Caniff Kaylee E. , Veve Michael P. , Rybak Michael J.
Published: January 2023

This work compares carbapenem-resistant
Enterobacterales
(CRE) infections using patient, clinical, and treatment variables to understand which characteristics are associated with the highest risk of clinical failure. Knowing which risk factors are associated with CRE infection failure can provide clinicians better prognostic and targeted interventions.
Meropenem-Vaborbactam Activity against U.S. Multidrug-Resistant
Enterobacterales
Strains, Including Carbapenem-Resistant Isolates
Authors: Shortridge Dee , Kantro Valerie , Castanheira Mariana
Published: January 2023

Carbapenems are a common first-line therapy for serious Gram-negative infections, but CRE isolates have become an urgent health concern. Meropenem-vaborbactam is a combination of the carbapenem meropenem and vaborbactam, which is a β-lactamase inhibitor with activity against serine carbapenemases, including KPC-producing isolates.
Associations of cardiorespiratory fitness and body mass index with incident restrictive spirometry pattern
Authors: Saavedra Joey M , Brellenthin Angelique G , Song Bong Kil , Lee Duck-chul , Sui Xuemei , Blair Steven N
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Restrictive spirometry pattern (RSP) suggests an impairment of lung function associated with a significantly increased risk of premature mortality. We evaluated the independent and joint associations of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and body mass index with incident RSP.

Methods

Data from the Aerobics Centre Longitudinal Study included 12 360 participants (18–82 years). CRF was assessed by maximal treadmill test and categorised into five groups. Body mass index was categorised into normal weight (<25.0 kg/m2), overweight (25.0–29.9 kg/m2) or obesity (≥30.0 kg/m2). RSP was defined as the simultaneous occurrence of forced expiratory volume in 1 s/force vital capacity ≥lower limit of normal and forced vital capacity <lower limit of normal.

Results

There were 900 (7.3%) cases of RSP (mean follow-up: 6.9 years). Compared with category 1 (‘least fit’), HRs (95% CIs) of RSP were 0.78 (0.63 to 0.96), 0.68 (0.54 to 0.86), 0.70 (0.55 to 0.88) and 0.59 (0.45 to 0.77) in categories 2, 3, 4 and 5 (most fit), respectively, after adjusting for confounders including body mass index. Compared with normal weight, HRs (95% CIs) of RSP were 1.06 (0.91 to 1.23) and 1.30 (1.03 to 1.64) in overweight and obese, respectively. However, the association between obesity and RSP was attenuated when additionally adjusting for CRF (HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.39). Compared with the ‘unfit and overweight/obese’ group, HRs (95% CIs) for RSP were 1.35 (0.98 to 1.85), 0.77 (0.63 to 0.96) and 0.70 (0.56 to 0.87) in the ‘unfit and normal weight,’ ‘fit and overweight/obese’ and ‘fit and normal weight’ groups, respectively.

Conclusions

Low CRF was associated with a greater incidence of RSP, irrespective of body mass index. Future studies are needed to explore potential underlying mechanisms of this association and to prospectively evaluate if improving CRF reduces the risk of developing RSP.
Digital cognitive–behavioural therapy to reduce suicidal ideation and behaviours: a systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data
Authors: Büscher Rebekka , Beisemann Marie , Doebler Philipp , Micklitz Hannah M , Kerkhof Ad , Cuijpers Pim , Batterham Philip J , Calear Alison L , Christensen Helen , De Jaegere Eva , Domhardt Matthias , Erlangsen Annette , Eylem van Bergeijk Ozlem , Hill Ryan , Lungu Anita , Mühlmann Charlotte , Pettit Jeremy W , Portzky Gwendolyn , Steubl Lena S , van Spijker Bregje A J , Tighe Joseph , Werner-Seidler Aliza , Wilks Chelsey R , Sander Lasse B
Published: January 2023

Question

Digital interventions based on cognitive–behavioural therapy (iCBT) is associated with reductions in suicidal ideation. However, fine-grained analyses of effects and potential effect-moderating variables are missing. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of iCBT on suicidal ideation, effect moderators, effects on suicide attempts and predictors of adherence.

Study selection and analysis

We systematically searched CENTRAL, PsycINFO, Embase and PubMed for randomised controlled trials that investigated iCBT for suicidal ideation or behaviours. Participants reporting baseline suicidal ideation were eligible. We conducted a one-stage individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis. Suicidal ideation was the primary outcome, analysed as three indices: severity of suicidal ideation, reliable changes and treatment response.

Findings

We included IPD from nine out of ten eligible trials (2037 participants). iCBT showed significant reductions of suicidal ideation compared with control conditions across all indices (severity: b=−0.247, 95% CI −0.322 to −0.173; reliable changes: b=0.633, 95% CI 0.408 to 0.859; treatment response: b=0.606, 95% CI 0.410 to 0.801). In iCBT, the rate of reliable improvement was 40.5% (controls: 27.3%); the deterioration rate was 2.8% (controls: 5.1%). No participant-level moderator effects were identified. The effects on treatment response were higher for trials with waitlist-controls compared with active controls. There were insufficient data on suicide attempts. Human support and female gender predicted treatment adherence. The main source of potential bias was missing outcome data.

Conclusions

The current evidence indicates that iCBT is effective in reducing suicidal ideation irrespective of age, gender and previous suicide attempts. Future studies should rigorously assess suicidal behaviour and drop-out reasons.