bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SENSITIVITY OF TRYPTOPHAN, TYROSINE AND PHENYLALANINE MUTANTS OF SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE TO PHENETHYL ALCOHOL
Authors: Meade James H , Manney Thomas R
Published: January 2021

Phenethyl alcohol inhibits the growth of many microorganisms. It is believed that the growth inhibition is mediated by its effect on the cell membrane. Differences between sensitive and resistant strains are suggested to be due to alterations in membrane structure. We report that, in some strains, an unexpected relationship exists between auxotrophy for tryptophan, tyrosine and phenylalanine and sensitivity to phenethyl alcohol.
NULLISOMIC TETRAHYMENA. II. A SET OF NULLISOMICS DEFINE THE GERMINAL CHROMOSOMES
Authors: Bruns P J , Brussard T B , Merriam E V
Published: January 2021

Crosses of a diploid Tetrahymena thermophila to a strain with a haploid germinal nucleus result in chromosome loss during meiosis in the haploid. The resulting monosomics can be made nullisomic by a special cross that induces homozygosis of a meiotic product of the germinal nucleus, but retention of the parental somatic nucleus. The creation and testing of single nullisomics for three of the five chromosome pairs and a triple nullisomic missing another pair is presented. Taken together, these strains make possible a series of crosses in which all but one of the chromosomes is missing in one parent. This set of nullisomics can, therefore, be used to map any mutation in Tetrahymena to a specific chromosome.
EFFECTS OF HIGH LEVELS OF DNA ADENINE METHYLATION ON METHYL-DIRECTED MISMATCH REPAIR IN ESCHERICHIA COLI
Authors: Pukkila Patricia J , Peterson Janet , Herman Gail , Modrich Paul , Meselson Matthew
Published: January 2021

Two methods were used in an attempt to increase the efficiency and strand selectivity of methyl-directed mismatch repair of bacteriophage λ heteroduplexes in E. coli. Previous studies of such repair used λ DNA that was only partially methylated as the source of methylated chains. Also, transfection was carried out in methylating strains. Either of these factors might have been responsible for the incompleteness of the strand selectivity observed previously. In the first approach to increasing strand selectivity, heteroduplexes were transfected into a host deficient in methylation, but no changes in repair frequencies were observed. In the second approach, heteroduplexes were prepared using DNA that had been highly methylated in vitro with purified DNA adenine methylase as the source of methylated chains. In heteroduplexes having a repairable cI/+ mismatch, strand selectivity was indeed enhanced. In heteroduplexes with one chain highly methylated and the complementary chain unmethylated, the frequency of repair on the unmethylated chain increased to nearly 100%. Heteroduplexes with both chains highly methylated were not repaired at a detectable frequency. Thus, chains highly methylated by DNA adenine methylase were refractory to mismatch repair by this system, regardless of the methylation of the complementary chain. These results support the hypothesis that methyl-directed mismatch repair acts to correct errors of replication, thus lowering the mutation rate.
MEIOTIC DNA METABOLISM IN WILD-TYPE AND EXCISION-DEFICIENT YEAST FOLLOWING UV EXPOSURE
Authors: Resnick Michael A , Stasiewicz Stanley , Game John C
Published: January 2021

The effects of UV irradiation on DNA metabolism during meiosis have been examined in wild-type (RAD+) and mitotically defined excision-defective (rad1-1) strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae that exhibit high levels of sporulation. The rad1-1 gene product is not required for normal meiosis: DNA synthesis, RNA synthesis, size of parental and newly synthesized DNA and sporulation are comparable in RAD  + and rad1-1 strains. Cells were UV irradiated at the beginning of meiosis, and the fate of UV-induced pyrimidine dimers as well as changes in DNA and DNA synthesis were followed during meiosis. Excision repair of pyrimidine dimers can occur during meiosis and the RAD1 gene product is required; alternate excision pathways do not exist. Although the rate of elongation is decreased, the presence of pyrimidine dimers during meiosis in the rad1-1 strain does not block meiotic DNA synthesis suggesting a bypass mechanism. The final size of DNA is about five times the distance between pyrimidine dimers after exposure to 4 J/m2. Since pyrimidine dimers induced in parental strands of rad1-1 prior to premeiotic DNA synthesis do not become associated with newly synthesized DNA, the mechanism for replicational bypass does not appear to involve a recombinational process. The absence of such association indicates that normal meiotic recombination is also suppressed by UV-induced damage in DNA; this result at the molecular level is supported by observations at the genetic level.
THE INFIDELITY OF CONJUGAL DNA TRANSFER IN ESCHERICHIA COLI
Authors: Kunz Bernard A , Glickman Barry W
Published: January 2021

The accuracy of replication and transfer of a lacI gene on an F' plasmid was measured. Following conjugal transfer of the F', a small but reproducible increase (1.8-fold) in the frequency of lacI  - mutations was detected. Among these, however, the frequency of nonsense mutations was 15-fold higher than in the absence of transfer. This corresponds to a 300-fold increase in the rate of base substitutions per round of replication compared with normal vegetative DNA replication. The amber mutational spectra revealed that, following conjugal transfer, mutation frequencies were increased markedly at all sites detected. In addition, an increase in G:C → A:T transitions was noted and was due almost entirely to an enhanced proportion of mutants recovered at the spontaneous hotspots (amber sites 6, 15 and 34). recA-dependent processes were not responsible for the increase in mutation, since similar results were observed with various recA  - donor and recipient combinations. These results demonstrate that the fidelity of conjugal DNA replication is considerably lower than that of vegetative DNA replication.
MATERNAL-ZYGOTIC GENE INTERACTIONS DURING FORMATION OF THE DORSOVENTRAL PATTERN IN DROSOPHILA EMBRYOS
Authors: Simpson Pat
Published: January 2021

Maternal-zygotic interactions involving the three genes dorsal (dl), twist (twi) and snail (sna) are described. The results suggest that all three are involved in the process by which the dorsoventral pattern of the Drosophila embryo is established. First, the lethal embryonic mutant phenotypes are rather similar. In homozygous twi or sna embryos invagination of the ventral presumptive mesodermal cells fails to occur, and the resulting embryos are devoid of internal organs. This is very similar to the dominant phenotype described for dl; in the case of dl, however, the effect is a maternal one dependent on the mutant genotype of the female. Second, a synergistic interaction has been found whereby dominant lethality of twi  - or sna-bearing zygotes is observed in embryos derived from heterozygous dl females at high temperature. The temperature sensitivity of this interaction permitted definition of a temperature-sensitive period which is probably that of dl. This was found to extend from approximately 12 hr prior to oviposition to 2— 3 hr of embryogenesis. A zygotic action for the dl gene in addition to the maternal effect was revealed by the finding that extra doses of dl  + in the zygotes can partially rescue the dominant lethality of heterozygous twi embryos derived from heterozygous dl females. Two possible interpretations of the synergism are considered: (1) twi and sna are activated in the embryos as a result of positional signals placed in the egg as a consequence of the functioning of the dl gene during oogenesis and, thus, play a role in embryonic determination. (2) The gene products of dl  + and twi  + (or sna  +) combine to produce a functional molecule that is involved in the specification of dorsoventral pattern in the early embryo.
CONDITIONING MUTATIONS IN DROSOPHILA MELANOGASTER AFFECT AN EXPERIENCE-DEPENDENT BEHAVIORAL MODIFICATION IN COURTING MALES
Authors: Gailey Donald A , Jackson F Rob , Siegel Richard W
Published: January 2021

One aspect of courtship in male Drosophila melanogaster has been reported to be experience dependent. Males that have courted fertilized females are virtually unresponsive to virgin females for 2-3 hr. Here, this response was utilized as an assay for the effects of conditioning mutations on experience-dependent courtship. Seven strains expressing conditioning mutations (previously isolated and characterized for learning or memory defects in an electrical shock-odor association paradigm, independent of courtship) were all found to be mutant in expression of this experience-dependent change in courtship behavior. By comparison, three control strains that were unselected for conditioning defects all expressed normal experience-dependent courtship. Other results indicate that males of the conditioning-defective strains are able to elicit necessary cues from fertilized females, yet do not then modify their courtship with virgin females. Thus, it is suggested that experience-dependent modification of courtship and the previously reported associative olfactory conditioning with electric shock share common elements of processing. The possibility that experience-dependent courtship represents adaptive behavior is discussed.
Longitudinal Within-Person Associations Between Quality of Social Relations, Structure of Social Relations, and Cognitive Functioning in Older Age
Authors: Luo Minxia , Edelsbrunner Peter Adriaan , Siebert Jelena Sophie , Martin Mike , Aschwanden Damaris
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Individuals’ social connections and interpersonal experiences can both shape and be shaped by cognitive functioning. This study examines longitudinal within-person associations between quality of social relations, structure of social relations, and cognitive functioning in older age.

Methods

We examined 16-year longitudinal data (3 waves) from 497 older adults (M = 66.07 years, SD = 0.83, range = 64–68 years) from the Interdisciplinary Longitudinal Study of Adult Development and Aging. Quality of social relations was measured by scales on perceived emotional support, instrumental support, and social integration. Structure of social relations was measured by self-reported number of leisure time partner types, indicating social network diversity. Cognitive functioning was assessed as a latent construct consisting of five cognitive tests (i.e., Information, Similarities, Letter Fluency, Picture Completion, Block Design). We used a random intercept cross-lagged panel model in the analysis.

Results

At the within-person level, prior quality of social relations, but not structure of social relations, was positively associated with subsequent cognitive functioning. Moreover, prior cognitive functioning was positively associated with subsequent structure of social relations, but not with quality of social relations.

Discussion

Quality of social relations is a protective factor of cognitive aging. Additionally, responding to prior lower cognitive functioning, social network diversity reduced, but quality of social relations did not seem to change. Overall, this study suggested that social relations and cognitive functioning mutually influence each other, but different aspects of social relations (i.e., quality, structure) might have different directional associations with cognitive functioning.
Dementia and Cognitive Decline in Older Adulthood: Are Agricultural Workers at Greater Risk?
Authors: Arora Kanika , Xu Lili , Bhagianadh Divya
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To examine whether long-term exposure to agricultural work is associated with dementia prevalence and the rate of cognitive change in older adulthood.

Method

We employed data from the Health and Retirement Study (1998–2014). Multiple logistic regression was used to determine whether a longest-held job in the agricultural sector was associated with differences in dementia prevalence. We examined if hearing impairment, depression, and physical health indicators mediated the relationship between agricultural work and cognitive functioning. Subgroup analyses were done by age, retirement status, job tenure, and cognitive domain. We employed growth curve models to investigate implications of agricultural work on age trajectories of cognitive functioning.

Results

Longest-held job in agriculture, fishing, and forestry (AFF) was associated with 46% greater odds of having dementia. The relationship between AFF exposure and cognitive functioning was not mediated by hearing impairment, depression, or physical health indicators. Results were stronger among younger and retired older adults as well as those with extensive job tenure. AFF exposure was associated with lower scores in working memory and attention and processing speed. Growth curve models indicated that while agricultural work exposure was associated with lower initial levels of cognitive functioning, over time, the pattern reversed with individuals in non-AFF jobs, showing more accelerated cognitive decline.

Discussion

Consistent with European studies, results from the United States also demonstrate a higher prevalence of dementia among agricultural workers. The cognitive reserve framework may explain the seemingly paradoxical result on age patterning of cognitive performance across older adults with different work histories.
Prpf31 is essential for the survival and differentiation of retinal progenitor cells by modulating alternative splicing
Authors: Li Jingzhen , Liu Fei , Lv Yuexia , Sun Kui , Zhao Yuntong , Reilly Jamas , Zhang Yangjun , Tu Jiayi , Yu Shanshan , Liu Xiliang , Qin Yayun , Huang Yuwen , Gao Pan , Jia Danna , Chen Xiang , Han Yunqiao , Shu Xinhua , Luo Daji , Tang Zhaohui , Liu Mugen
Published: January 2021

Dysfunction of splicing factors often result in abnormal cell differentiation and apoptosis, especially in neural tissues. Mutations in pre-mRNAs processing factor 31 (PRPF31) cause autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa, a progressive retinal degeneration disease. The transcriptome-wide splicing events specifically regulated by PRPF31 and their biological roles in the development and maintenance of retina are still unclear. Here, we showed that the differentiation and viability of retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) are severely perturbed in prpf31 knockout zebrafish when compared with other tissues at an early embryonic stage. At the cellular level, significant mitotic arrest and DNA damage were observed. These defects could be rescued by the wild-type human PRPF31 rather than the disease-associated mutants. Further bioinformatic analysis and experimental verification uncovered that Prpf31 deletion predominantly causes the skipping of exons with a weak 5′ splicing site. Moreover, genes necessary for DNA repair and mitotic progression are most enriched among the differentially spliced events, which may explain the cellular and tissular defects in prpf31 mutant retinas. This is the first time that Prpf31 is demonstrated to be essential for the survival and differentiation of RPCs during retinal neurogenesis by specifically modulating the alternative splicing of genes involved in DNA repair and mitosis.
Input associativity underlies fear memory renewal
Authors: Li Wei-Guang , Wu Yan-Jiao , Gu Xue , Fan Hui-Ran , Wang Qi , Zhu Jia-Jie , Yi Xin , Wang Qin , Jiang Qin , Li Ying , Yuan Ti-Fei , Xu Han , Lu Jiangteng , Xu Nan-Jie , Zhu Michael Xi , Xu Tian-Le
Published: January 2021

Synaptic associativity, a feature of Hebbian plasticity wherein coactivation of two inputs onto the same neuron produces synergistic actions on postsynaptic activity, is a primary cellular correlate of associative learning. However, whether and how synaptic associativity are implemented into context-dependent relapse of extinguished memory (i.e. fear renewal) is unknown. Here, using an auditory fear conditioning paradigm in mice, we show that fear renewal is determined by the associativity between convergent inputs from the auditory cortex (ACx) and ventral hippocampus (vHPC) onto the lateral amygdala (LA) that reactivate ensembles engaged during learning. Fear renewal enhances synaptic strengths of both ACx to LA and the previously unknown vHPC to LA monosynaptic inputs. While inactivating either of the afferents abolishes fear renewal, optogenetic activation of their input associativity in the LA recapitulates fear renewal. Thus, input associativity underlies fear memory renewal.
EFFECTS OF TEST-BOLUS AND LOW-DOSE SCAN ON CT PULMONARY ANGIOGRAPHY IMAGE QUALITY IN PATIENTS WITH DIFFERENT BODY MASS INDEXES
Authors: Liu Huijia , Fu Yan , Zhao Bo , Zhang Xuening , Li Guilai , Liu Meizhou , Li Hewen
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to investigate different methods of obtaining high-quality Computed Tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) images using low-dose scanning in patients with different body mass index (BMI) values. Sixty patients with suspected pulmonary embolism were grouped based on their BMI values (BMI < 25, designated N, and BMI ≥ 25, designated O) and were assigned to receive either test bolus (TB) or bolus tracking (BT) at conventional (C) or low (L) dose. The effective dose (ED) in the N–TB–L group was lower than in the group N–TB–C (0.56 ± 0.05 vs. 3.78 ± 1.16, p < 0.001), with similar image quality (4.90 ± 0.31 vs. 4.70 ± 0.47, p = 0.120). The ED in the O–TB–L group was lower than in the O–TB–C group (0.54 ± 0.03 vs. 5.14 ± 1.34, p < 0.001), but the group O–TB–C’s image quality was higher (4.65 ± 0.59 vs. 3.95 ± 0.89, p = 0.006). Groups N–TB–L versus O–TB–L, groups N-TB-L versus N–BT-L and groups O–TB–C versus O–BT–C had similar EDs (all ps > 0.05), but the image quality was different (all ps < 0.05). In conclusion, the results showed that the image quality of low-dose CTPA scanning using TB was similar to that of the conventional-dose CTPA in patients with BMI < 25 but was lower in patients with BMI ≥ 25. TB was better than BT for all patients, regardless of BMI, when receiving the same ED.
Arabidopsis bZIP11 Is a Susceptibility Factor During Pseudomonas syringae Infection
Authors: Prior Matthew J. , Selvanayagam Jebasingh , Kim Jung-Gun , Tomar Monika , Jonikas Martin , Mudgett Mary Beth , Smeekens Sjef , Hanson Johannes , Frommer Wolf B.
Published: January 2021

The induction of plant nutrient secretion systems is critical for successful pathogen infection. Some bacterial pathogens (e.g., Xanthomonas spp.) use transcription activator-like (TAL) effectors to induce transcription of SWEET sucrose efflux transporters. Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato strain DC3000 lacks TAL effectors yet is able to induce multiple SWEETs in Arabidopsis thaliana by unknown mechanisms. Because bacteria require other nutrients in addition to sugars for efficient reproduction, we hypothesized that Pseudomonas spp. may depend on host transcription factors involved in secretory programs to increase access to essential nutrients. Bioinformatic analyses identified the Arabidopsis basic-leucine zipper transcription factor bZIP11 as a potential regulator of nutrient transporters, including SWEETs and UmamiT amino acid transporters. Inducible downregulation of bZIP11 expression in Arabidopsis resulted in reduced growth of P. syringae pv. tomato strain DC3000, whereas inducible overexpression of bZIP11 resulted in increased bacterial growth, supporting the hypothesis that bZIP11-regulated transcription programs are essential for maximal pathogen titer in leaves. Our data are consistent with a model in which a pathogen alters host transcription factor expression upstream of secretory transcription networks to promote nutrient efflux from host cells.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
The role of diet in hyperuricemia and gout
Authors: Yokose Chio , McCormick Natalie , Choi Hyon K.
Published: January 2021

Purpose of review

Although gout's cardinal feature is inflammatory arthritis, it is closely associated with insulin resistance and considered a manifestation of the metabolic syndrome. As such, both gout and hyperuricemia are often associated with major cardiometabolic and renal comorbidities that drive the persistently elevated premature mortality rates among gout patients. To that end, conventional low-purine (i.e., low-protein) dietary advice given to many patients with gout warrant reconsideration.

Recent findings

Recent research suggests that several healthy diets, such as the Mediterranean or Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diets, in combination with weight loss for those who are overweight or obese, can drastically improve cardiometabolic risk factors and outcomes. By treating gout as a part of the metabolic syndrome and shifting our dietary recommendations to these healthy dietary patterns, the beneficial effects on gout endpoints should naturally follow for the majority of typical gout cases, mediated through changes in insulin resistance.

Dietary recommendations for the management of hyperuricemia and gout should be approached holistically, taking into consideration its associated cardiometabolic comorbidities. Several healthy dietary patterns, many with similar themes, can be tailored to suit comorbidity profiles and personal preferences.
Elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein concentrations may be associated with increased postdischarge mortality in patients with myocardial injury after noncardiac surgery
Authors: Oh Ah Ran , Park Jungchan , Lee Seung-Hwa , Kim Jihoon , Lee Jong Hwan , Min Jeong Jin , Kwon Ji-hye , Hyeon Cheol Won , Yang Kwangmo , Choi Jin-ho , Lee Sang-Chol , Gwon Hyeon-Cheol
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Myocardial injury after noncardiac surgery (MINS) is one of the most common cardiovascular complications associated with mortality and morbidity during the first 2 years after surgery. However, the relevant variables associated with mortality after discharge in patients with MINS have not been fully investigated.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the association between persistent inflammation detected by high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) at discharge and postdischarge mortality after MINS.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational analysis of acquired data from Samsung Medical Center Troponin in Noncardiac Operation (SMC-TINCO) registry.

SETTING

A tertiary hospital from January 2010 to June 2019.

PATIENTS

Patients who were discharged alive after a diagnosis of MINS.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary endpoint was postdischarge 1-year mortality, and 30-day mortality and the mortality from 30 days to 1 year was also compared.

RESULTS

Data from a total of 4545 adult patients were divided into two groups according to hsCRP concentration at discharge. There were 757 (16.7%) patients in the normal hsCRP group and 3788 (83.3%) patients in the elevated hsCRP group. After inverse probability weighting, 1-year mortality was significantly higher in the elevated group than the normal group (hazard ratio 1.93, 95% CI 1.45 to 2.57, P 
< 0.001). Thirty-day mortality and the mortality from 30 days to 1 year were also increased in the elevated group.

CONCLUSION

In patients with MINS, an elevated hsCRP concentration at discharge appeared to be associated with increased mortality. Further research is needed to determine whether controlling inflammation can be helpful in reducing mortality.
The effects of preoperative moderate to severe anaemia on length of hospital stay
Authors: Bulte Carolien S.E. , Boer Christa , Hemmes Sabrine N.T. , Serpa Neto Ary , Binnekade Jan M. , Hedenstierna Goran , Jaber Samir , Hiesmayr Michael , Hollmann Markus W. , Mills Gary H. , Vidal Melo Marcos F. , Pearse Rupert M. , Putensen Christian , Schmid Werner , Severgnini Paolo , Wrigge Hermann , Gama de Abreu Marcelo , Pelosi Paolo , Schultz Marcus J.
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Anaemia is frequently recorded during preoperative screening and has been suggested to affect outcomes after surgery negatively.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives were to assess the frequency of moderate to severe anaemia and its association with length of hospital stay.

DESIGN

Post hoc analysis of the international observational prospective ‘Local ASsessment of VEntilatory management during General Anaesthesia for Surgery’ (LAS VEGAS) study.

PATIENTS AND SETTING

The current analysis included adult patients requiring general anaesthesia for non-cardiac surgery. Preoperative anaemia was defined as a haemoglobin concentration of 11 g dl−1 or lower, thus including moderate and severe anaemia according to World Health Organisation criteria.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was length of hospital stay. Secondary outcomes included hospital mortality, intra-operative adverse events and postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs).

RESULTS

Haemoglobin concentrations were available for 8264 of 9864 patients. Preoperative moderate to severe anaemia was present in 7.7% of patients. Multivariable analysis showed that preoperative moderate to severe anaemia was associated with an increased length of hospital stay with a mean difference of 1.3 ((95% CI 0.8 to 1.8) days; P < .001). In the propensity-matched analysis, this association remained present, median 4.0 [IQR 1.0 to 5.0] vs. 2.0 [IQR 0.0 to 5.0] days, P = .001. Multivariable analysis showed an increased in-hospital mortality (OR 2.9 (95% CI 1.1 to 7.5); P 
= .029), and higher incidences of intra-operative hypotension (36.3 vs. 25.3%; P < .001) and PPCs (17.1 vs. 10.5%; P = .001) in moderately to severely anaemic patients. However, this was not confirmed in the propensity score-matched analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

In this international cohort of non-cardiac surgical patients, preoperative moderate to severe anaemia was associated with a longer duration of hospital stay but not increased intra-operative complications, PPCs or in-hospital mortality.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The LAS VEGAS study was registered at Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT01601223.
Generic versus reference listed ropivacaine for peripheral nerve blockade
Authors: Opfermann Philipp , Marhofer Peter , Hopkins Philip M. , Columb Malachy O. , Zadrazil Markus , Stimpfl Thomas , Marhofer Melanie , Zeitlinger Markus
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Generic drug preparations do not require the same degree of scrutiny as the originally licensed preparation before they can be approved for clinical use. The permitted tolerance limits for bioequivalent preparations might be associated with clinically relevant differences for drugs with a narrow therapeutic index, such as local anaesthetics.

OBJECTIVE

We compared pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics of generic and reference listed or original preparations of ropivacaine.

DESIGN

The current healthy volunteer study used a randomised, triple-blinded, cross-over equivalence design.

SETTING

Tertiary university hospital, Medical University of Vienna.

SUBJECTS

Healthy male volunteers (N=18) aged 18 to 60 years.

INTERVENTIONS

A series of three ultrasound-guided ulnar nerve blocks separated by at least 6 days were carried out on each volunteer. Reference listed ropivacaine (NaropinTM) was used for two blocks and a generic preparation of ropivacaine was used for the other block. Sensory block onset and duration were evaluated using loss of pinprick sensation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Duration of sensory block was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included time-to-onset of sensory block, ropivacaine pharmacokinetics from venous blood samples and pH of the preparations. Equivalence was evaluated using the ratios of means and 90% confidence intervals (CIs) of log transformed data.

RESULTS

Equivalence was demonstrated for the primary outcome measure, the duration of sensory block [original : generic ratio 1.01 (90% CI 0.87 to 1.16); P < 0.007] and all pharmacokinetic variables. Equivalence could not be concluded for time-to-onset of sensory block [reference : generic ratio 0.80 (90% CI 0.63 to 1.03); P = 0.27], although reproducibility of this variable using our experimental model was lower than for other variables. The generic preparation was significantly more alkaline [difference 0.06 pH units (95% CI 0.04 to 0.07); P < 0.0001].

CONCLUSION

Our finding of equivalence for sensory block duration and key pharmacokinetic variables between a generic and original preparation of ropivacaine is reassuring. The significant, but small, difference in pH is not clinically important.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

EudraCT 2019-003148-61, German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS 00017750).
Ultrasound-guided versus conventional lung recruitment manoeuvres in laparoscopic gynaecological surgery
Authors: Park Sun-Kyung , Yang Hyojun , Yoo Seokha , Kim Won Ho , Lim Young-Jin , Bahk Jae-Hyon , Kim Jin-Tae
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Pneumoperitoneum and steep Trendelenburg position promote the formation of pulmonary atelectasis during laparoscopic gynaecological surgery.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether lung ultrasound-guided alveolar recruitment manoeuvres could reduce peri-operative atelectasis compared with conventional recruitment manoeuvres during laparoscopic gynaecological surgery.

DESIGN

Randomised controlled trial.

SETTING

Tertiary hospital, Republic of Korea, from August 2018 to January 2019.

PATIENTS

Adult patients scheduled for laparoscopic gynaecological surgery under general anaesthesia.

INTERVENTION

Forty patients were randomised to receive either ultrasound-guided recruitment manoeuvres (manual inflation until no visibly collapsed area was seen with lung ultrasonography; intervention group) or conventional recruitment manoeuvres (single manual inflation with 30 cmH2O pressure; control group). Recruitment manoeuvres were performed 5 min after induction and at the end of surgery in both groups. All patients received volume-controlled ventilation with a tidal volume of 8 ml kg−1 and a positive end-expiratory pressure of 5 cmH2O.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was the lung ultrasound score at the end of surgery; a higher score indicates worse lung aeration.

RESULTS

Lung ultrasound scores at the end of surgery were significantly lower in the intervention group compared with control group (median [IQR], 7.5 [6.5 to 8.5] versus 9.5 [8.5 to 13.5]; difference, −2 [95% CI, −4.5 to −1]; P = 0.008). The intergroup difference persisted in the postanaesthesia care unit (7 [5 to 8.8] versus 10 [7.3 to 12.8]; difference, −3 [95% CI, −5.5 to −1.5]; P = 0.005). The incidence of atelectasis was lower in the intervention group compared with control group at the end of surgery (35 versus 80%; P = 0.010) but was comparable in the postanaesthesia care unit (40 versus 55%; P = 0.527).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of ultrasound-guided recruitment manoeuvres improves peri-operative lung aeration; these effects may persist in the postanaesthesia care unit. However, the long-term effects of ultrasound-guided recruitment manoeuvres on clinical outcomes should be the subject of future trials.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03607240).
Comparative Evaluation of Rebound and Perkins Tonometers in Pediatric Glaucoma With Varied Corneal Characteristics
Authors: Angmo Dewang , Ramesh Priyanka , Mahalingam Karthikeyan , Azmira Kishan , Pandey Shivam , Gupta Viney , Sihota Ramanjit , Dada Tanuj
Published: January 2021

Precis:

Icare tonometer overestimated intraocular pressure (IOP) as compared with Perkins and this variation was higher in IOP>19 mm Hg and corneal opacity in patients with pediatric glaucoma.

Purpose:

To compare the IOP measured by Icare ic200 with Perkins tonometer in pediatric glaucoma with different corneal characteristics.

Methods:

Patients of pediatric glaucoma posted for routine examination under anesthesia, age below 12 years were enrolled. All patients underwent IOP measurement with Perkins and Icare ic200 tonometer by the same observer. Basic demographic data and other relevant clinical data were recorded. Central corneal thickness (CCT), horizontal corneal diameter, and corneal characteristics such as cornea clarity was recorded.

Results:

A total of 194 eyes of 105 patients were analyzed. The difference between Perkins and Icare IOP was −0.816 mm Hg with the Bland-Altman plot 95% limits of agreement (LoA) from −11.194 to 9.562 mm Hg and 5.1% (10) values lying outside LoA. At IOP <19 mm Hg, the difference was −0.65 mm Hg and IOP ≥19 mm Hg, the difference was higher, −1.12 mm Hg. In the clear cornea group (123 eyes), the difference in IOP by 2 tonometers was −0.776 mm Hg with the Bland-Altman plot 95% LoA between −10.679 and 9.128 mm Hg. In hazy corneas (36 eyes), the difference in IOP was 0.531 mm Hg. The Bland-Altman plot showed 95% LoA between −6.242 and 7.303 mm Hg. In the scarred cornea group (35 eyes), the difference in IOP between the 2 was −2.343 mm Hg and the Bland-Altman plot showed wide 95% LoA from −16.302 to 11.616 mm Hg.

Conclusion:

Icare tonometer overestimated IOP as compared with Perkins and this variation was higher in eyes with IOP≥19 mm Hg, CCT >615 μm, and scarred corneas. A moderate correlation between IOP and CCT for both tonometers was noted.
Factors Associated With and Characteristic of HIV/Tuberculosis Co-Infection: A Retrospective Analysis of SECOND-LINE Clinical Trial Participants
Authors: Henry Rebecca T. , Jiamsakul Awachana , Law Matthew , Losso Marcelo , Kamarulzaman Adeeba , Phanuphak Praphan , Kumarasamy Nagalingeswaran , Foulkes Sharne , Mohapi Lerato , Nwizu Chidi , Wood Robin , Kelleher Anthony , Polizzotto Mark ,   On behalf of the SECOND-LINE Study Group
Published: January 2021

Background:

Tuberculosis (TB) is a common infection in people living with HIV. However, the risk factors for HIV/TB co-infection in second-line HIV therapy are poorly understood. We aimed to determine the incidence and risk factors for TB co-infection in SECOND-LINE, an international randomized clinical trial of second-line HIV therapy.

Methods:

We did a cohort analysis of TB cases in SECOND-LINE. TB cases included any clinical or laboratory-confirmed diagnoses and/or commencement of treatment for TB after randomization. Baseline factors associated with TB were analyzed using Cox regression stratified by site.

Results:

TB cases occurred at sites in Argentina, India, Malaysia, Nigeria, South Africa, and Thailand, in a cohort of 355 of the 541 SECOND-LINE participants. Overall, 20 cases of TB occurred, an incidence rate of 3.4 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 2.1 to 5.1). Increased TB risk was associated with a low CD4+-cell count (≤200 cells/μL), high viral load (>200 copies/mL), low platelet count (<150 ×109/L), and low total serum cholesterol (≤4.5 mmol/L) at baseline. An increased risk of death was associated with TB, adjusted for CD4, platelets, and cholesterol. A low CD4+-cell count was significantly associated with incident TB, mortality, other AIDS diagnoses, and virologic failure.

Discussion:

The risk of TB remains elevated in PLHIV in the setting of second-line HIV therapy in TB endemic regions. TB was associated with a greater risk of death. Finding that low CD4+ T-cell count was significantly associated with poor outcomes in this population supports the value of CD4+ monitoring in HIV clinical management.
Multiple holins contribute to extracellular DNA release in Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms
Authors: Hynen Amelia L. , Lazenby James J. , Savva George M. , McCaughey Laura C. , Turnbull Lynne , Nolan Laura M. , Whitchurch Cynthia B.
Published: January 2021

Bacterial biofilms are composed of aggregates of cells encased within a matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). One key EPS component is extracellular DNA (eDNA), which acts as a ‘glue’, facilitating cell–cell and cell–substratum interactions. We have previously demonstrated that eDNA is produced in

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

biofilms via explosive cell lysis. This phenomenon involves a subset of the bacterial population explosively lysing, due to peptidoglycan degradation by the endolysin Lys. Here we demonstrate that in

P. aeruginosa

three holins, AlpB, CidA and Hol, are involved in Lys-mediated eDNA release within both submerged (hydrated) and interstitial (actively expanding) biofilms, albeit to different extents, depending upon the type of biofilm and the stage of biofilm development. We also demonstrate that eDNA release events determine the sites at which cells begin to cluster to initiate microcolony formation during the early stages of submerged biofilm development. Furthermore, our results show that sustained release of eDNA is required for cell cluster consolidation and subsequent microcolony development in submerged biofilms. Overall, this study adds to our understanding of how eDNA release is controlled temporally and spatially within

P. aeruginosa

biofilms.
Influence of core divisome proteins on cell division in Streptomyces venezuelae ATCC 10712
Authors: Cantlay Stuart , Sen Beer Chakra , Flärdh Klas , McCormick Joseph R.
Published: January 2021

The sporulating, filamentous soil bacterium

Streptomyces venezuelae

ATCC 10712 differentiates under submerged and surface growth conditions. In order to lay a solid foundation for the study of development-associated division for this organism, a congenic set of mutants was isolated, individually deleted for a gene encoding either a cytoplasmic (i.e. ftsZ) or core inner membrane (i.e. divIC, ftsL, ftsI, ftsQ, ftsW) component of the divisome. While ftsZ mutants are completely blocked for division, single mutants in the other core divisome genes resulted in partial, yet similar, blocks in sporulation septum formation. Double and triple mutants for core divisome membrane components displayed phenotypes that were similar to those of the single mutants, demonstrating that the phenotypes were not synergistic. Division in this organism is still partially functional without multiple core divisome proteins, suggesting that perhaps other unknown lineage-specific proteins perform redundant functions. In addition, by isolating an ftsZ2p mutant with an altered −10 region, the conserved developmentally controlled promoter was also shown to be required for sporulation-associated division. Finally, microscopic observation of FtsZ-YFP dynamics in the different mutant backgrounds led to the conclusion that the initial assembly of regular Z rings does not per se require the tested divisome membrane proteins, but the stability of Z rings is dependent on the divisome membrane components tested. The observation is consistent with the interpretation that Z ring instability likely results from and further contributes to the observed defects in sporulation septation in mutants lacking core divisome proteins.
Genetic Diversity ofDianthusPlants Revealed by SRAP Markers
Authors: Wang Jing , Li Jian , Shi Gensheng , Hao Huazheng , Ji Zhongrui , Lai Zhongxiong , Xing Guoming
Published: January 2021

Dianthusis a valuable genetic resource for flower breeding. However, study on the genetic similarity ofDianthusplants is rare. In this work, 20 pairs of SRAP markers were used to analyze genetic diversity of 44Dianthusplants, including 13 lines of wildDianthus chinensisL., 7 lines of wildDianthus superbusL. and 24 commercial varieties includingDianthus caryophyllusL.,Dianthus plumariusL. andDianthus barbatusL.. Results showed that precise interspecific and intraspecific genetic diversity was provided inDianthusplants by using 20 pairs of SRAP molecular markers. The interspecific genetic diversity ofDianthusplants was much abundant and the intraspecific genetic difference of wildDianthusspecies was related to their geographical distribution and habitats. In this work, theoretical basis and technical support were provided for crossbreeding and molecular mechanism research ofDianthusplants.
ANTIBIOFILM FORMATION ACTIVITY, RESISTANT GENES PROFILING AND DETECTION OF VIRULENCE FACTORS OF TOXIGENICVibrio choleraeISOLATES FROM KISUMU COUNTY, KENYA
Authors: Awuor Silas O. , Eric Omwenga O. , Daud Ibrahim I.
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Vibrio choleraecan switch between motile and biofilm lifestyles with some of its strains forming biofilms in addition to production of various virulence traits and possessing antimicrobial resistance traits. This study is aim to show antibiofilm formation activity, resistant genes profiling and detection of virulence factors of toxigenicvibrio choleraeisolates from Kisumu County.

Methodology

A total of 119Vibrio choleraeO1, biotype El Tor isolates collected during 2017 cholera outbreak in Kisumu County were used for this study. The samples were cultured on TCBS and PCR assay carried out using standard procedures. Biofilm assay tests and detection of virulence factors were also done by use of standard procedures.

Results

Of the 101 confirmedvibrio choleraeisolates, 80.2% possessed the cholera toxin gene (ctxA) whereas 19.8% did not. Analysis of thetoxRgene revealed that 98.0% harbored thetoxRgene and only 2.0% did not. It was also revealed that 80.2% harbored the class I integron (inDSgene) while 19.8% did not, 93.1% were confirmed to possess the SXT integrating conjugative element (ICE) while 7.0% did not. The tetracycline resistance gene was present in 96.0% of the isolates. In 7 isolants strains which were resistance to common used antibiotics were screened for biofilm formation. Three of the strains (04/17-07, 06/17-14, and05/17-03) failed to form biofilm while four strains namely03/17-16, 02/17-09, 04/17-13andP. aeruginosaATCC 10145 as a positive control formed biofilms. In addition, out of those 7 isolants 71.42% produced protease, 85.71% produced phospholipases, 71.42% of isolates has the ability to produce lipase and 100% were able to produce the haemolysin.

Conclusion

An understanding of this intricate signaling pathway is essential for the development of methods to treat and prevent this devastating disease.
Selection of popcorn genotypes tolerant toSpodoptera frugiperdaand key traits related to the identification of tolerance
Authors: Kuroda Amanda Tami , Rosa Jocimar Costa , de Almeida Luiz Felipe Antunes , Lago Garcia Giovana Dal , Demitto Gustavo Arana , de Souza Renata Maria Bento , de Albuquerque Fernando Alves , Scapim Carlos Alberto
Published: January 2021

TheSpodoptera frugiperda, is one of the most deleterious pests of popcorn and the identification of tolerant genotypes is determinant in breeding programs. The objective of this study was to select popcorn genotypes tolerant toS. frugiperdaand the key traits related to the identification of tolerance. The popcorn varieties UEM J1, Composto Márcia, Arachida, Composto Gaúcho and Zapalote Chico (resistant check) were evaluated in a completely randomized design with 100 replications. The experimental unit consisted of one Petri dish, containing plant material and a larva. The following traits were evaluated: larval stage duration (LSt), food intake weight (IW), final larva weight (FW), mean larva weight (MW), feces (F), assimilated (A) and metabolized food weight (M), relative consumption rate (RCR), relative metabolic rate (RMR), relative growth rate (RGR), conversion efficiency of ingested food (CEI), apparent digestibility (AD), conversion efficiency of digested food (CED) and leaf area consumed (LAC). The diagnosis of multicollinearity, analysis of canonical variables, genetic divergence, hierarchical clustering, factor analysis and canonical correspondence analysis were carried out to perform multivariate analysis. After the multicollinearity test, the traits FW, IW, RCR, AD and LAC were maintained for further analysis. Variety Arachida was considered tolerant toS. frugiperdaand can be used in the future as a source of favorable alleles to breed tolerant popcorn hybrids. The traits relative consumption rate, apparent digestibility and leaf area consumed were considered key traits in the identification of tolerance againstS. frugiperdain popcorn genotypes.
The crystal structure of the decaaluminum alkoxide cluster Al10O4(OH)8
L
14 (L = 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropan-2-olate)
Authors: Butcher Ray J. , Purdy Andrew P.
Published: January 2021

In the title centrosymmetric cluster compound, hexakis(μ2-1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropan-2-olato)octakis(1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropan-2-olato)octa-μ2-hydroxido-di-μ4-oxido-di-μ3-oxido-decaaluminium, [Al10(C3HF6O)14(OH)8O4] (C42H22Al10F84O26), there is a central μ4-OAl4 moiety, which has six edges of which three contain μ(O)-1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropan-2-olate (L) ligands and two contain μ-OH groups each bridging two Al atoms along an edge. The sixth edge is occupied by a group containing a fifth aluminium atom [bis-μ(OH)-, μ3(O)—AlL]. This last μ3(O) group generates a centrosymmetric Al2O2 dimer, thus the μ3(O) atom is linked to two Al atoms in the asymmetric unit as well as a third Al atom through a center of inversion. Three of the hexafluoropropyl groups of the C3HF6O− ligands are disordered and each was refined with two conformations with occupancies of 0.770 (3)/0.230 (3), 0.772 (3)/0.228 (3) and 0.775 (3)/0.225 (3). The five unique Al centers have coordination numbers varying from four to six with bond angles that show considerable distortions from regular geometry: for the four-coordinate atom, τ4′ = 0.886, while three Al atoms are five-coordinate (τ5 values = 0.098, 1.028, and 0.338) and one is distorted six-coordinate with O—Al—O bond angles ranging from 74.22 (9) to 171.59 (12)°. The geometry about the central O atom in the OAl4 block is significantly distorted tetrahedral (τ4′ = 0.630) with Al—O—Al angles ranging from 95.50 (9) to 147.74 (13)°. The extended structure features numerous O—H...O, O—H...F, C—H...O and C—H...F hydrogen bonds and short F...F contacts.
Regulation as a force for hybrid organization: evidence from the Bonneville Power Administration (1980–2012)
Authors: Convery Amanda M. , Kaufman Matt
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This case study highlights state-logic influence on hybrid organizations and institutionally complex environments through acts of regulation (and deregulation).

Design/methodology/approach

This study presents a 30-year narrative case focused on the significant social achievements of the Bonneville Power Administration within the Northwest United States. It combines the analysis of historical documentation, annual reports issued by the organization and interviews with firm management to observe the wax and wane of regulatory influence through time.

Findings

The presented case suggests two ways regulation projects state-logic influence onto hybrid organizations. First, it imposes a “floor” level of baseline social activity that must be met despite pressure from market logic stakeholders. Second, it imposes formal administrative procedures that require interaction with, and often approval from, key social stakeholders. Administrative procedures provide a series of public forums used to promote additional social resource allocation in excess of baseline regulatory mandates.

Research limitations/implications

A narrative case covering a 30-year period will by necessity have to prioritize breadth of analysis over depth. This is a limitation of the analysis presented, but it also provides an opportunity to observe the oscillating impact of state and market-logic influence through time.

Originality/value

The study findings have several implications for the growing accounting literature on institutional complexity and hybrid organization. First, the authors highlight the ways regulation shapes institutionally complex spaces and, as a result, the hybrid organizations formed within those environments. Second, the exogenous nature of regulatory mandates indicate hybrid firms could emerge as both a voluntary and an involuntary adaptation to institutionally complex environments. Finally, this study highlights opportunities to further one’s understanding how state logics influence hybrid organizations through the study of state-owned enterprises (SOEs).