bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The diversity of mycorrhiza‐associated fungi and trees shapes subtropical mountain forest ecosystem functioning
Authors: Luo Ya‐Huang , Ma Liang‐Liang , Seibold Sebastian , Cadotte Marc W. , Burgess Kevin S. , Tan Shao‐Lin , Ye Lin‐Jiang , Zheng Wei , Zou Jia‐Yun , Chen Zhi‐Fa , Liu De‐Tuan , Zhu Guang‐Fu , Shi Xiao‐Chun , Zhao Wei , Li De‐Zhu , Liu Jie , Gao Lian‐Ming
Published: January 2023

Aim

Mycorrhiza play key roles for ecosystem structure and functioning in forests. However, how different mycorrhizal types influence mountain forest biodiversity–ecosystem functioning (BEF) relationships are largely unknown. We evaluate how the diversity of distinct mycorrhiza‐associated fungi and trees shapes forest carbon storage along elevational gradients.

Location

Gaoligong Mountains within Hengduan Mountains, Southwest China.

Taxon

Seed plants and mycorrhizal fungi.

Methods

We used the data from 31 subtropical forest plots along elevational gradients on two aspects (east and west) of the mountain. We quantified species richness of trees and symbiotic fungi and assigned both to their mycorrhizal type (arbuscular mycorrhiza [AM], ectomycorrhiza [EcM] and ericoid mycorrhiza [ErM]). We then examined the diversity effects of mycorrhiza‐associated fungi and trees on above‐ground carbon stored in trees and organic carbon stored in soils.

Results

Species richness was highest for AM trees (79.5%), followed by ErM trees (13.4%) and then EcM trees (7.1%). Species richness of AM‐associated trees and fungi decreased with increasing elevation, while ErM‐associated trees and fungi showed an opposite trend. EcM‐associated diversity followed a hump‐shaped relationship with elevation. Positive relationships between diversity and above‐ground carbon were detected in all three mycorrhizal associations, but despite low species number, canopy‐dominating EcM trees comprised 64.4% of the amount of above‐ground carbon. Furthermore, community‐weighted means of height exhibited positive correlations with forest above‐ground carbon, indicating that positive selection effects occur. Soil organic carbon was positively related to EcM‐associated fungi diversity, above‐ground carbon mass and soil nitrogen availability, with the latter having strongest direct effects.

Main Conclusions

The distributions of forest biodiversity and carbon storage can be modulated by distinct mycorrhizal fungi and trees. Moreover, future global changes (e.g. climate warming, intensifying nitrogen deposition) could alter the mycorrhizal‐mediated BEF relationships in mountain forests.
Transforming growth factor‐β signalling in tumour resistance to the anti‐PD‐(L)1 therapy: Updated
Authors: Mortezaee Keywan , Majidpoor Jamal
Published: January 2023

Low frequency of durable responses in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) demands for taking complementary strategies in order to boost immune responses against cancer. Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) is a multi‐tasking cytokine that is frequently expressed in tumours and acts as a critical promoter of tumour hallmarks. TGF‐β promotes an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment (TME) and defines a bypass mechanism to the ICI therapy. A number of cells within the stroma of tumour are influenced from TGF‐β activity. There is also evidence of a relation between TGF‐β with programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression within TME, and it influences the efficacy of anti‐programmed death‐1 receptor (PD‐1) or anti‐PD‐L1 therapy. Combination of TGF‐β inhibitors with anti‐PD(L)1 has come to the promising outcomes, and clinical trials are under way in order to use agents with bifunctional capacity and fusion proteins for bonding TGF‐β traps with anti‐PD‐L1 antibodies aiming at reinvigorating immune responses and promoting persistent responses against advanced stage cancers, especially tumours with immunologically cold ecosystem.
False hemoglobin A1c value as a result of compound heterozygotes of hemoglobin E and hemoglobin New York
Authors: Li Youqiong , Tang Jianling , Zheng Lihong , Tang Kaijian , Li Lingli
Published: January 2023

The presence of hemoglobin (Hb) variants might interfere with some glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) measurements. There have been a few reports of compound Hb variants affecting HbA1c testing. Here, we report a case of the coinheritance of two Hb variants in the β‐globin gene. High‐performance liquid chromatography with the Hb program showed a high HbA2 level. Similarly, an E‐window peak was separated on the high‐performance liquid chromatography with a glycated Hb program. However, capillary electrophoresis showed two abnormal peaks and no HbA peak. Sanger sequencing confirmed the presence of Hb New York and HbE. This is the first report of a compound heterozygote for HbE and Hb New York. The double heterozygote caused erroneous results for HbA1c on high‐performance liquid chromatography and enzyme assay.
Effect of thermo‐velocity barriers on fish: influence of water temperature, flow velocity and body size on the volitional swimming capacity of northern straight‐mouth nase (Pseudochondrostoma duriense)
Authors: García‐Vega Ana , Ruiz‐Legazpi Jorge , Fuentes‐Pérez Juan Francisco , Bravo‐Córdoba Francisco Javier , Sanz‐Ronda Francisco Javier
Published: January 2023

Water temperature and flow velocity directly affect the fish swimming capacity, and thus, both variables influence the fish passage through river barriers. Nonetheless, their effects are usually disregarded in fishway engineering and management. This study aims to evaluate the volitional swimming capacity of the northern straight‐mouth nase (Pseudochondrostoma duriense), considering the possible effects of water temperature, flow velocity and body size. For this, the maximum distance, swim speed and fatigue time (FT) were studied in an outdoor open‐channel flume in the Duero River (Burgos, Spain) against three nominal velocities (1.5, 2.5 and 3 m s−1) and temperatures (5.5, 13.5 and 18.5°C), also including the changes between swimming modes (prolonged and sprint). Results showed that a nase of 20.8 cm mean fork length can develop a median swim speed that exceeds 20.7 BL s−1 (4.31 m s−1) during a median time of 3.4 s in sprint mode, or 12.2 BL s−1 (2.55 m s−1) for 23.7 s in prolonged mode under the warmest scenario. During prolonged swimming mode, fish were able to reach further distances in warmer water conditions for all situations, due to a greater swimming speed and FT, whereas during sprint mode, warmer conditions increased the swim speed maintaining the FT. In conclusion, the studied temperature range and flow velocity range influence fish swimming performance, endurance and distance travelled, although with some differences depending on the swimming mode. The provided information goes a step forward in the definition of real fish swimming capacities, and in turn, will contribute to establish clear passage criteria for thermo‐velocity barriers, allowing the calculation of the proportion of fish able to pass a barrier under different working scenarios, as well designing of the optimized solutions to improve the fish passage through river barriers.
Long‐term clinical outcomes of a fully covered self‐expandable metal stent for refractory pancreatic strictures in symptomatic chronic pancreatitis: An 11‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Ko Sung Woo , So Hoonsub , Oh Dongwook , Song Tae Jun , Park Do Hyun , Lee Sang Soo , Seo Dong‐Wan , Lee Sung Koo
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

A fully covered self‐expandable metal stent (FCSEMS) has recently been applied in the management of chronic pancreatitis patients with pancreatic strictures. However, related long‐term effects remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the long‐term outcomes of FCSEMS placement in chronic pancreatitis patients with refractory strictures.

Method

We retrospectively reviewed our database for patients undergoing FCSEMS placement for refractory pancreatic strictures between September 2008 and December 2010. The main outcomes were technical, radiological, and clinical success, as well as recurrence and adverse events.

Results

A total of 35 patients were included. Technical success was achieved in all patients. The median FCSEMS indwelling time was 3.2 months (interquartile range [IQR], 3.0–4.9 months). Radiological success was achieved in all patients (complete, n = 2; partial, n = 33). Clinical success was achieved in 29 patients (82.9%; complete analgesic cessation, n = 19; analgesic reduction >50%, n = 11). During the median follow‐up of 136 months, (IQR, 85.8–145.5 months), eight patients (22.9%) experienced recurrence. The median interval from stent removal to recurrence was 24.9 months (IQR, 11.3–30.3 months). Biliary obstruction, an early adverse event, occurred in two patients (5.7%); the late adverse event stent‐induced de novo stricture was observed in 17 patients (48.6%).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that an FCSEMS is effective for relieving refractory strictures in chronic pancreatitis. However, FCSEMSs were associated with stent‐induced de novo strictures in nearly half of the patients. Prospective studies are required to further evaluate the long‐term efficacy and safety of FCSEMSs in chronic pancreatitis.
Coming Apart While Scaling Up – Adoption of Logics and the Fragmentation of Organizational Identity in Science‐Based Ventures
Authors: Schou Peter Kalum
Published: January 2023

When trying to commercialize, science‐based ventures often face contradicting institutional logics. While stakeholders appreciate scientific ability, they also increasingly demand concessions to a commercial logic focusing on efficiency and profit. To satisfy stakeholders, science‐based ventures must adapt their organizational identity to include the commercial logic. The study investigates this challenge, relying on a 24‐month in‐depth study of a venture in the photonics industry. Based on the findings, I developed a process model that outlines how the logics shift from compatibility to incompatibility during the adoption process, thereby causing the organizational identity to fragment. The paper contributes to research streams on organizational identity processes, dynamics of institutional logics in organizations, and scaling of science‐based ventures.
Palatability, glycemic, and insulinemic responses to various carbohydrate formulations: Alternatives for the diagnosis of insulin dysregulation in horses?
Authors: Warnken Tobias , Schaub Claudia , Delarocque Julien , Frers Florian , Feige Karsten , Sonntag Johanna , Reiche Dania Birte
Published: January 2023

Background

Oral glycemic challenge (GC) tests are recommended for diagnosis of insulin dysregulation (ID). Various protocols are used, but all have limitations in terms of palatability, ease of use, variable composition, geographic availability, or some combination of these.

Hypothesis/Objective

To evaluate newly developed formulations with defined carbohydrate composition for use as oral GCs.

Animals

Thirty‐four horses and ponies in various metabolic states.

Methods

Our objectives were carried out in 2 separate cross‐over experiments. First, the palatability and acceptance of various GCs (2 syrups, 1 granulate) offered for free intake were compared to glucose mixed in a chaff‐based diet. Subsequently, syrups were administered by syringe and compared to an oral glucose test using naso‐gastric tubing (tube OGT) to investigate the glycemic and insulinemic responses. Second, these variables were compared in the best performing GC‐formulations (granulate further optimized to pelleted formulation and 1 syrup) and a tube OGT. All GCs were administered with equivalent amounts of 0.5 g glycemic carbohydrates per kg body weight.

Results

Only the GC pellets were consumed completely by all horses (consumption time 5 ± 2 min). When administered by syringe, the GC syrup also was well accepted. The insulin concentrations at 120 min correlated significantly between tube OGT and GC pellets (r = .717; P < .001) or GC syrup (r = .913; P < .001). The new GC syrup and GC pellets discriminate between healthy and ID horses.

Conclusions and Clinical Significance

The GC pellets (DysChEq)™ and GC syrup can be used as palatable and well‐accepted oral GC tests for assessment of ID in horses.
Vector‐borne protozoan and bacterial pathogen occurrence and diversity in ectoparasites of the Egyptian Rousette bat
Authors: Szentiványi Tamara , Heintz Anne‐Caroline , Markotter Wanda , Wassef Jérôme , Christe Philippe , Glaizot Olivier
Published: January 2023

Bats are known reservoir hosts for a wide variety of parasites and pathogens, including bacteria and protozoans. Some of these pathogens are vector‐borne, and although their role is poorly studied, ectoparasites may contribute significantly to their transmission. The aim of this study was to molecularly detect the presence of vector‐borne microorganisms in bat‐associated ectoparasites to explore their diversity and distribution in these insects. We tested the presence of Bartonella spp., Polychromophilus spp., and Trypanosoma spp. in bat flies and bat fleas collected from 56 Egyptian Rousette bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus), using conventional PCR. We found a high prevalence of 43.9% (47/107) of Bartonella spp. in bat flies, but a low prevalence of 6.6% (4/61) in bat fleas. Polychromophilus and Trypanosoma DNA were absent in both bat flies and bat fleas. Furthermore, we found novel gltA Bartonella sequences, as well as genotypes that are highly similar to recently described and potentially zoonotic ones. Our results show high diversity of Bartonella in bat flies, however, their role in pathogen transmission is still unknown and should be further explored.
Knowledge and perceptions of nutrition assistance programmes among young adult students
Authors: Perry Michelle G. , Ashley Avery R. , Hood Lanae B. , Hagedorn‐Hatfield Rebecca L.
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate the perceptions of nutrition assistance programmes among young adult students in the United States, and to identify how the current social and political climate, including the COVID‐19 pandemic, has impacted these perceptions and the overall willingness of young adult students to participate in these programmes. Participants were recruited via email and social media to participate in 20‐min virtual, semi‐structured interviews. Twenty‐three participants, between the ages of 18 and 25 years from three states in the United States were interviewed. Ten participants reported having experienced food insecurity (FI) in their lifetime, with 21 participants currently having enough food to eat, while two sometimes did not currently have enough to eat. Seven participants had utilised nutrition programmes in their lifetime. Interviews were video and audio recorded, transcribed, and coded using a six‐step thematic analysis. Young adult students were largely unaware of nutrition assistance programmes and eligibility requirements but still perceived these programmes to be successful, with a higher proportion of the participants who had utilised a nutrition assistance programme in their lifetime expressing the view that they were generally successful compared to those who had never utilised one. Most were cognizant of the social stigma surrounding these programmes yet expressed a willingness to utilise them and reported an increased willingness to utilise nutrition assistance programmes as a result of the COVID‐19 pandemic. COVID‐19 made young adult students aware of FI and the important role nutrition assistance programmes play in our society. Young adult students expressed the belief that the Biden administration will have a positive impact on nutrition assistance programmes but had a general hesitation to discuss politics. The COVID‐19 pandemic has increased young adult students' willingness to utilise nutrition assistance programmes, although, access to these programmes remains low due to a lack of knowledge and general unawareness of programme availability and accessibility. Education is needed to improve overall knowledge of, and facilitate access to, nutrition assistance programmes while combating perceptions around stigma.
A protocol for exploring patients' and support peoples' experiences after prolonged critical illness
Authors: Best Amy , Harvey Clare , Minton Claire
Published: January 2023

Background

Improved survival of critically ill people has increased the number of patients who experience an extended stay in intensive care units (ICU). Evidence suggests the complexities, vulnerabilities, and traumas created by critical illness are substantial for both patients and their support people with a number experiencing devastating impairments across multiple domains of health and function including physical, mental, cognitive, and social health. However, research on survivors predominantly focuses on those who have experienced a relatively short length of stay; only a limited number of studies seek to explore the experiences of survivors and their support people who have had a prolonged stay in intensive care.

Aims

To describe the experiences of survivors of prolonged critical illness (invasively mechanically ventilated in ICU for ≥eight days) and their support people during the first 12 months following hospital discharge in New Zealand.

Study design

This research will be a multi‐centre study recruiting from three intensive care units in New Zealand. A narrative inquiry methodology will be used to interview 6–8 former long stay patients and 6–8 support people of a former long stay patient. Each participant will be interviewed at 3‐, 6‐, 9‐, and 12‐months following hospital discharge. Data will be collected via narrative inquiry interviews. Data analysis will combine two theoretical frameworks: the Clandinin and Connelly narrative inquiry three‐dimensional space and the Fairclough situation, discourse and context framework.

Results

The phenomenon of investigation will be experiences after prolonged critical illness explored longitudinally across the first‐year post‐hospital discharge.

Relevance to clinical practice

This protocol provides a methodological framework for exploring the lived experiences of survivors of prolonged critical illness and their support people. Data analysis will support understanding of the human journey of ICU survivorship and add to the body of knowledge on how to support post‐ICU recovery in this population. The barriers and enablers of survivorship at the micro, meso, and macro levels of the health service will also be illuminated.
Sex differences in neurodevelopmental trajectories in children with different levels of autistic traits
Authors: Nishimura Tomoko , Takahashi Nagahide , Okumura Akemi , Harada Taeko , Iwabuchi Toshiki , Nakayasu Chikako , Rahman Mohammad Shafiur , Uchiyama Satoshi , Wakuta Manabu , Nomura Yoko , Takei Nori , Senju Atsushi , Tsuchiya Kenji J.
Published: January 2023

Aim

Little is known about early manifestations of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in females, including those who may be overlooked by the current diagnostic criteria. We longitudinally explored sex differences in the trajectories of cognitive and motor functions and adaptive behaviors in children with different levels of autistic traits.

Methods

The participants were 824 children from the Hamamatsu Birth Cohort for Mothers and Children (HBC Study), Japan, who were classified into three autistic trait groups—low, moderate, and high—based on the Social Responsiveness Scale–Second Edition. Cognitive and motor functions were measured at seven time‐points from 0.5 to 3.5 years of age using the Mullen Scales of Early Learning. Adaptive behaviors were measured at five time‐points from 2.7 to 9 years of age using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales–Second Edition. Trajectories were depicted using latent growth curve modeling.

Results

Sex‐specific trajectories were observed in the high‐autistic‐trait group, with only males showing a temporary decline in expressive language around the age of 2 years and a slight improvement thereafter. They also showed a slight improvement around 3 years in the adaptive behavior communication domain but a gradual downward trend later. Females in the high‐autistic‐trait group showed no distinct manifestation before the age of 3 years but showed a downward trend after 3.5 years in the adaptive behavior communication domain.

Conclusion

Females and males with higher autistic traits than their same‐sex peers, independent of clinical diagnosis, may have different phenotypes in certain neurodevelopmental domains during infancy and early childhood.
Legacy effects after seven years of afforestation withPinus taedain a natural grassland
Authors: Gallego Federico , López‐Mársico Luis , Tommasino Andrea , Altesor Alice , Casás Martina , Rodríguez Claudia
Published: January 2023

The replacement of grassy vegetation by tree monocultures has become an emerging global activity. In South America, about half a million hectares of new plantations are incorporated each year, typically conducted with fast‐growing exotic species, likePinusandEucalyptusspecies. However, information about the potential for spontaneous recovery of these grasslands is almost nonexistent. We assessed the biotic and abiotic legacies left by a 7‐year plantation ofPinus taedaon a natural temperate sub‐humid grassland of Uruguay. In a paired sampling design, comparing a clear‐cutP. taedaplantation and a natural grassland, we analyzed the vegetation richness, cover and composition, the seed bank size and composition, and chemical soil parameters. Afforestation reduced species richness and vegetation cover by 30 and 58%, respectively. Also, species composition differed considerably between sites. Afforestation had a strong negative effect on grass species, excluding the shade‐intolerant C4grasses that dominate in the grassland. Seed‐bank richness did not differ between sites, but the total seedling density was significantly higher in the plantation compared to the grassland (6,620 and 4,420 seeds/m2, respectively), mainly due to the contribution of forbs. Only 30% of the seed bank species were shared between the two sites. In terms of soil chemical parameters, afforestation induced soil acidification (deviation by 0.15–0.20 pH units) and reduction in soil carbon and cation (Ca and K) concentrations (deviation by 30, 20, and 40%, respectively). Our study showed limited possibilities for passive restoration of a natural grassland of Uruguay after aPinusafforestation event.
Family policy, intrahousehold bargaining, and child health
Authors: Borga Liyousew Gebremedhin
Published: January 2023

This study examines the effects of an exogenous change in family policy in Ethiopia on women empowerment and the allocation of resources toward child health. Empowerment is formalized as an unobserved latent variable based on a large set of questions pertaining to women's autonomy and decision‐making power. Exploiting the time and regional variation in the implementation of the law, the study finds that early implementation of the reform increases women's access to information, literacy and education levels, and their assertiveness toward family planning and domestic violence. In addition, more decision power in the hands of women is found to have a positive impact on investments in the health and nutrition of children. The findings suggest that factors that do not enter the individual's preferences may affect outcomes for individuals and emphasize the role of intrahousehold heterogeneity. The results are robust to a battery of validity and specification checks.
The value of anti‐rods and rings antibodies in Chinese population of Dalian City: A retrospective study
Authors: Gu Yanan , Li Si , Wang Zhen , Yang Dong
Published: January 2023

The study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of anti‐rods and rings (anti‐RR) antibodies in antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) test samples retrospectively. The laboratory data and clinical details of patients with positive anti‐RR antibodies were collected and analysed between December 2017 and May 2022 in the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University. A total of 72 665 patients were tested for ANAs. There were 45 632 patients discovered with positive ANAs (62.80%), only 131 patients presented with anti‐RR antibodies (0.18%), among which only 68 patients were hospitalized patients with a definitive diagnosis. Among the 68 patients with a definitive diagnosis, 8 of 68 (11.8%) had autoimmune diseases, and 19 of 68 (27.9%) had renal diseases. Other diseases included liver disease, pulmonary disease, cerebral ischemia, cerebral infarction, chronic cardiac failure and venous thromboembolism. The detection rate of high titre(≥1:1000) anti‐RR antibodies is significantly higher in autoimmune diseases.
Methodological rigor and reporting quality of clinical practice guidelines for adults hospitalized with bacterial pneumonia: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Hagedorn Wonder Amy , Nick Jan M. , Adeoye Olayemi O. , Sehgal Gurmeet
Published: January 2023

Objective:

This scoping review presents a profile of methodological rigor and reporting quality of clinical practice guidelines for adults hospitalized with bacterial pneumonia.

Introduction:

An ideal clinical practice guideline is evidence-based and the product of a rigorous and robust literature-vetted process, yet reports show that rigor is not being achieved. Moreover, a new vulnerable population has been identified due to COVID-19. Preliminary searches yielded no scoping or systematic reviews on methodological rigor and reporting quality of clinical practice guidelines used for managing bacterial pneumonia in hospitalized adults.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider current national and international clinical practice guidelines for management of hospitalized adult patients with either suspected or confirmed primary bacterial pneumonia. The review will include adult patients with multiple diagnoses if there is a clearly delineated clinical practice guideline for pneumonia.

Methods:

A 3-step search strategy will be conducted using JBI methodology for scoping reviews. After an initial MEDLINE search for keywords, a broad search of 7 databases, 1 simultaneous platform, gray literature, specialty organizations, and international guideline groups will be conducted from 2017 to present, in any language. Reference lists will be screened for additional sources. A 2-step screening process will be used to identify eligible clinical practice guidelines. Three reviewers will independently extract data, using a standardized form. Domain scores will be analyzed and presented as percentages, and the results will be interpreted as map trends.

Scoping review key details available in Open Science Framework:

https://osf.io/h896x
Impaired dendritic spike generation in the Fragile X prefrontal cortex is due to loss of dendritic sodium channels
Authors: Brandalise Federico , Kalmbach Brian E. , Cook Erik P. , Brager Darrin H.
Published: January 2023

Patients with Fragile X syndrome, the leading monogenetic cause of autism, suffer from impairments related to the prefrontal cortex, including working memory and attention. Synaptic inputs to the distal dendrites of layer 5 pyramidal neurons in the prefrontal cortex have a weak influence on the somatic membrane potential. To overcome this filtering, distal inputs are transformed into local dendritic Na+ spikes, which propagate to the soma and trigger action potential output. Layer 5 extratelencephalic (ET) prefrontal cortex (PFC) neurons project to the brainstem and various thalamic nuclei and are therefore well positioned to integrate task‐relevant sensory signals and guide motor actions. We used current clamp and outside‐out patch clamp recording to investigate dendritic spike generation in ET neurons from male wild‐type and Fmr1 knockout (FX) mice. The threshold for dendritic spikes was more depolarized in FX neurons compared to wild‐type. Analysis of voltage responses to simulated in vivo ‘noisy’ current injections showed that a larger dendritic input stimulus was required to elicit dendritic spikes in FX ET dendrites compared to wild‐type. Patch clamp recordings revealed that the dendritic Na+ conductance was significantly smaller in FX ET dendrites. Taken together, our results suggest that the generation of Na+‐dependent dendritic spikes is impaired in ET neurons of the PFC in FX mice. Considering our prior findings that somatic D‐type K+ and dendritic hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐gated‐channel function is reduced in ET neurons, we suggest that dendritic integration by PFC circuits is fundamentally altered in Fragile X syndrome.

image

Key points

Dendritic spike threshold is depolarized in layer 5 prefrontal cortex neurons in Fmr1 knockout (FX) mice.

Simultaneous somatic and dendritic recording with white noise current injections revealed that larger dendritic stimuli were required to elicit dendritic spikes in FX extratelencephalic (ET) neurons.

Outside‐out patch clamp recording revealed that dendritic sodium conductance density was lower in FX ET neurons.
High-Resolution Bacterial Cytological Profiling Reveals Intrapopulation Morphological Variations upon Antibiotic Exposure
Authors: Samernate Thanadon , Htoo Htut Htut , Sugie Joseph , Chavasiri Warinthorn , Pogliano Joe , Chaikeeratisak Vorrapon , Nonejuie Poochit
Published: January 2023

Phenotypic heterogeneity is crucial to bacterial survival and could provide insights into the mechanism of action (MOA) of antibiotics, especially those with polypharmacological actions. Although phenotypic changes among individual cells could be detected by existing profiling methods, due to the data complexity, only population average data were commonly used, thereby overlooking the heterogeneity.
The Roles of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate Reoxidation and Ammonium Assimilation in the Secretion of Amino Acids as Byproducts of Clostridium thermocellum
Authors: Yayo Johannes , Rydzak Thomas , Kuil Teun , Karlsson Anna , Harding Dan J. , Guss Adam M. , van Maris Antonius J. A.
Published: January 2023

Improving the ethanol yield of
C. thermocellum
is important for the industrial implementation of this microorganism in consolidated bioprocessing. A central role of NADPH in driving amino acid byproduct formation was demonstrated by eliminating the NADPH-supplying malate shunt and separately by changing the cofactor specificity in ammonium assimilation.
Point-Counterpoint: What’s in a Name? Clinical Microbiology Laboratories Should Use Nomenclature Based on Current Taxonomy
Authors: Carroll Karen C. , Munson Erik , Butler-Wu Susan M. , Patrick Sheila
Published: January 2023

The mnemonic SPICE (
Serratia
,
Pseudomonas
, indole-positive
Proteus
,
Citrobacter
, and
Enterobacter
) has served as a reminder to consider when a Gram-negative organism may carry a chromosomal copy of
bla
ampC
, with the associated risk of developing resistance to first-, second-, and third-generation cephalosporins. However, in 2017, there was a well-founded proposal to rename
Enterobacter aerogenes
to
Klebsiella aerogenes
, based on whole-genome sequencing (WGS), and the SPICE mnemonic lost its relevance.
Improved Dual Base Editor Systems (iACBEs) for Simultaneous Conversion of Adenine and Cytosine in the Bacterium Escherichia coli
Authors: Shelake Rahul Mahadev , Pramanik Dibyajyoti , Kim Jae-Yean
Published: January 2023

Dual base editors are DSB-free CRISPR tools applied in eukaryotes but not yet in bacteria. We developed an improved ACBE toolset for bacteria, combining highly processive deaminases. We believe that the bacterial optimized iACBE toolset is a significant advancement in CRISPR-based
E. coli
genome editing and adaptable to other microbes.
How Epstein-Barr Virus Induces the Reorganization of Cellular Chromatin
Authors: Rosemarie Quincy , Kirschstein Elijah , Sugden Bill
Published: January 2023

Five families of viruses support the reorganization of cellular chromatin (ROCC), the compaction and margination of host chromatin, upon their productive infection. That they all share this phenotype implies the importance of ROCC in viral life cycles.
The Substitutions L50F, E166A, and L167F in SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro Are Selected by a Protease Inhibitor
In Vitro
and Confer Resistance To Nirmatrelvir
Authors: Jochmans Dirk , Liu Cheng , Donckers Kim , Stoycheva Antitsa , Boland Sandro , Stevens Sarah K. , De Vita Chloe , Vanmechelen Bert , Maes Piet , Trüeb Bettina , Ebert Nadine , Thiel Volker , De Jonghe Steven , Vangeel Laura , Bardiot Dorothée , Jekle Andreas , Blatt Lawrence M. , Beigelman Leonid , Symons Julian A. , Raboisson Pierre , Chaltin Patrick , Marchand Arnaud , Neyts Johan , Deval Jerome , Vandyck Koen
Published: January 2023

Paxlovid is the first oral antiviral approved for treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Antiviral treatments are often associated with the development of drug-resistant viruses.
Bioenergetic State of Escherichia coli Controls Aminoglycoside Susceptibility
Authors: El Khoury Jessica Y. , Zamarreño Beas Jordi , Huguenot Allison , Py Béatrice , Barras Frédéric
Published: January 2023

Antibiotic resistance is a major public health, social, and economic problem. Aminoglycosides (AG) are known to be highly effective against Gram-negative bacteria, but their use is limited to life-threatening infections because of their nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity at therapeutic dose.
Cryo-EM Structures of AcrD Illuminate a Mechanism for Capturing Aminoglycosides from Its Central Cavity
Authors: Zhang Zhemin , Morgan Christopher E. , Cui Meng , Yu Edward W.
Published: January 2023

Here, we report cryo-EM structures of the AcrD aminoglycoside efflux pump in the absence and presence of bound gentamicin, posing the possibility that this pump is capable of capturing aminoglycosides from the central cavity of the AcrD trimer. The results indicate that AcrD utilizes charged residues to bind and export drugs, mediating resistance to these antibiotics.
cotH
Genes Are Necessary for Normal Spore Formation and Virulence in
Mucor lusitanicus
Authors: Szebenyi Csilla , Gu Yiyou , Gebremariam Teclegiorgis , Kocsubé Sándor , Kiss-Vetráb Sándor , Jáger Olivér , Patai Roland , Spisák Krisztina , Sinka Rita , Binder Ulrike , Homa Mónika , Vágvölgyi Csaba , Ibrahim Ashraf S. , Nagy Gábor , Papp Tamás
Published: January 2023

Current treatment options for mucormycosis are inadequate, resulting in high mortality rates, especially among immunosuppressed patients. The development of novel therapies for mucormycosis has been hampered by lack of understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms.
Complete Genome Sequence of Phormidium yuhuli AB48, Isolated from an Industrial Photobioreactor Environment
Authors: Qiu Yilin , Noonan Avery J. C. , Dofher Kalen , Koch Moritz , Kieft Brandon , Lin Xuan , Ziels Ryan M. , Hallam Steven J.
Published: January 2023

We report the genome of
Phormidium yuhuli
AB48, which includes a circular chromosome and a circular plasmid (4,747,469 bp and 51,599 bp, respectively). This is currently the only closed reference genome of an isolate of the
Phormidium
genus, based on the Genome Taxonomy Database (GTDB), providing a potential model system for sustainable biotechnology innovation.
Whole-Genome Sequences of Streptococcus alactolyticus Strain An1F4 and Escherichia coli Strains Ae3A3 and Ae3B3, Isolated from Feces of Domestic Pigs
Authors: Sigurdarson Jens Jakob , Kawaichi Satoshi , Svane Simon , Karring Henrik
Published: January 2023

Here, we present the genome sequences of a strain of
Streptococcus alactolyticus
and two strains of
Escherichia coli
that were isolated from feces samples from domestic pigs in Denmark. The genome sequences contribute to a better understanding of the microbiological processes in the feces and manure of domestic pigs.
Viral Community Structure and Potential Functions in the Dried-Out Aral Sea Basin Change along a Desiccation Gradient
Authors: Wicaksono Wisnu Adi , Egamberdieva Dilfuza , Cernava Tomislav , Berg Gabriele
Published: January 2023

Environmental viruses have added a wealth of knowledge to ecological studies with the emergence of metagenomic technology and approaches. They are also becoming recognized as important genetic repositories that underpin the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems but have remain moslty unexplored. Using shotgun metagenome sequencing and bioinformatic tools, we found that the viral community structure was affected during natural revegetation in the dried-up Aral Sea area, a model habitat for investigating natural ecological restoration but still understudied. In this study, we highlight the importance of viruses, elements that are overlooked, for their potential contribution to terrestrial ecosystems, i.e., nutrient cycles, stress resilience, and host competitiveness, during natural revegetation.
Characterization of a Conjugative Hybrid Plasmid Coharboring
bla
KPC-2
and
bla
IMP-4
in a Klebsiella quasipneumoniae Clinical Isolate
Authors: Dong Huiyue , Liu Ziyi , Wu Zhiyao , Zhang Tingting , Xia Ziwei , Zhao Yuxin , Li Yan , Shi Jinjin , Wang Zhiqiang , Li Ruichao , Qin Shangshang
Published: January 2023

The emergence of carbapenem-resistant
Enterobacterales
(CRE) that coexpress serine- and metallo-carbapenemases is a severe threat to the efficacy of ceftazidime-avibactam (CZA), which has been proven to be extremely effective against KPC-producing
Enterobacterales
strains. Our study described the cooccurrence of KPC-2, a serine β-lactamase, and IMP-4, a metallo-β-lactamase (MBL), on a conjugative hybrid plasmid from a clinical carbapenem-resistant
K. quasipneumoniae
strain, and it revealed an alternative route for IncHI5 plasmid to evolve by recombining with other plasmids to form a hybrid plasmid.
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Characterization of H5N8 High-Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus Neurotropism in Ducks and Chickens
Authors: Foret-Lucas Charlotte , Figueroa Thomas , Coggon Amelia , Houffschmitt Alexandre , Dupré Gabriel , Fusade-Boyer Maxime , Guérin Jean-Luc , Delverdier Maxence , Bessière Pierre , Volmer Romain
Published: January 2023

The severity of high-pathogenicity avian influenza virus (HPAIV) infection has been linked to its ability to replicate systemically and cause lesions in a variety of tissues. However, the symptomatology depends on the host species.
In Situ Generated Dispersed Catalysts Based on Molybdenum and Tungsten Phosphides in Hydroprocessing of Guaiacol
Authors: Golubeva M. A. , Mukhtarova M. , Bugaev A. L. , Naranov E. R.
Published: January 2023

Amorphous catalysts based on molybdenum and tungsten phosphides were prepared in situ from oil-soluble precursors such as triphenylphosphine and carbonyls of the corresponding metals during hydrodeoxygenation of guaiacol. These catalysts were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. After 6 h of reaction at 320–380°C and an initial hydrogen pressure of 5 MPa, the guaiacol conversion amounted to 89–91% in the presence of the molybdenum phosphide catalyst and 80–86% with tungsten phosphide. The selectivity towards phenol as the main reaction product reached as high as 80% in the presence of molybdenum phosphide (360°C, 6 h) and 78% in the tungsten phosphide case (340°C, 1 h). In the presence of both catalytic systems, the reaction products also contained anisole, cresols, and toluene.
Effect of CPAP on cognitive function in stroke patients with obstructive sleep apnoea: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Yang Yingxia , Wu Weiqi , Huang Honghong , Wu Haining , Huang Junying , Li Liya , Wang Lingxing
Published: January 2023

Objective

To investigate the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment on cognitive function in stroke patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) by exploring randomised controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods

Published RCTs that assessed the therapeutic effects of CPAP on cognition in stroke patients with OSA, compared with controls or sham CPAP, were included. Electronic databases, including MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane library, were searched in October 2020 and October 2021. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane collaboration tools. A random effects or fixed effects model was used according to heterogeneity. The outcomes were global cognitive gain, improvement in cognitive domain and subjective sleepiness.

Results

7 RCTs, including 327 participants, comparing CPAP with control or sham CPAP treatment were included. 6 RCTs with 270 participants reported results related to global cognition, and CPAP treatment had no significant effects on global cognitive gain in stroke patients with OSA (standardised mean difference (SMD), 0.18; 95% CI, –0.07 to 0.42; p=0.153). A subgroup analysis showed that an early start to (<2 weeks post stroke) CPAP treatment after stroke significantly improved global cognition (SMD, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.18 to 1.14; p=0.007), which was not found in the case of a delayed start to CPAP treatment. However, CPAP did not significantly help with memory, language, attention or executive function. Moreover, CPAP therapy significantly alleviated subjective sleepiness (SMD, −0.73; 95% CI, –1.15 to −0.32; p≤0.001).

Conclusions

Early initiation of CPAP treatment might contribute to improvement in global cognition in stroke patients with OSA. This study had the following limitations: the sample size in each included study was relatively small; the scales related to cognitive assessment or subjective sleepiness were inconsistent; and the methodological quality was not high. Future trials should focus on including a greater number of stroke patients with OSA undergoing CPAP treatment.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020214709.
MyTPill: study protocol for a cross-over randomised controlled trial comparing novel strategies to monitor antiretroviral adherence among HIV+ prescription opioid users
Authors: Bischof Jason J , Chai Peter , Mohamed Yassir , Padappayil Rana , Merchant Roland C , Boyer Edward W , Rosen Rochelle , Reyes-Gibby Cielito C , Viamonte Michael , W Carrico Adam
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Adherence to HIV antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains the cornerstone of HIV treatment. For individuals with suboptimal adherence, electronic adherence monitoring (EAM) technologies have become an important component of multimodal adherence support strategies. Most EAM technologies detect pillbox opening, and therefore, assume but cannot verify actual ingestion of oral medication. In contrast, a digital pill system (ID-capsule manufactured by etectRX, here named My/Treatment/Pill) measures directly ingestion of medications. Identifying the superior method to measure ART adherence would improve virological suppression by enabling the delivery of real-time interventions to support ART adherence, particularly in high-risk populations.

Methods and analysis

Cross-over, randomised trial with 1:1 variable block size randomisation comparing two EAM systems in prescription opioid-using HIV+patient on once daily oral bictegravir, emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide regimens and detectable viral load >200 copies/mL within 30 days of screening (n=80). The primary outcome is once daily ART adherence measurement efficacy as assessed by comparing the accuracy of each EAM system as measured by concordance of the respective EAM systems to dried blood spot ART concentrations. Secondary outcomes are the identification of multilevel factors that are prevalent in the target population most closely linked to ART non-adherence and EAM non-adherence.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol was approved by the institutional review boards of participating sites (The Ohio State University, The Fenway Institute and the University of Miami). Data will be presented at scientific conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT03978793.
Challenges and outcomes of implementing a national syphilis follow-up system for the elimination of congenital syphilis in Cambodia: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Delvaux Thérèse , Ouk Vichea , Samreth Sovannarith , Yos Socheata , Tep Romain , Pall Chamroen , Keo Vannak , Deng Serongkea , Khin Cho Win Htin , Hul Sivantha , Chhorn Somnang , Tuot Sovannary , Kim Rattana
Published: January 2023

Objectives

We aimed to describe the challenges and outcomes of implementing a national syphilis follow-up system to improve syphilis management in maternal and child health (MCH) services in Cambodia.

Design

Operational study; quantitative cohort data and cross sectional qualitative data.

Setting

Public health facilities at national level and in four provinces with high syphilis prevalence in Cambodia.

Participants

Pregnant women screened for syphilis; MCH health care providers and managers.

Methods

We conducted an operational research using syphilis screening and treatment data collected from a national follow-up system (cohort data) and reported in the health management information system (HMIS) between 2019 and 2020. We also conducted indepth interviews with 16 pregnant women and focus group discussions with 37 healthcare providers and managers. Descriptive statistics and thematic content analysis were used.

Outcome measures

Syphilis testing and treatment results and perceptions regarding these services.

Results

A total of 470 pregnant women who tested positive in rapid syphilis testing were recorded in the national syphilis follow-up system in 2019–2020. Of these, 71% (332 of 470) received a rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test and 95% (n=315) tested positive; 78% (246 of 315) received any syphilis treatment and only 28% (88 of 315) were treated adequately with benzathine penicillin G (BPG). Data from four provinces with high syphilis prevalence (more closely monitored) showed higher testing and treatment rates than at the national level. HMIS aggregated data reported a higher number of pregnant women screened and treated for syphilis than the follow-up system during the same period. Barriers to syphilis testing and treatment included late antenatal care, long distance to RPR testing and treatment, partners’ lack of support to reach the health facility, BPG stockout and poor adherence to oral treatment in the absence of BPG. Providers and managers reported a lack of communication across services, insufficient skills to treat infants and absence of clear guidance regarding the revised follow-up system. Study findings contributed to changes in operating procedures nationwide to facilitate access to syphilis testing and adequate treatment and a systematic follow-up of pregnant women and exposed infants.

Conclusions

Study results contributed to informing improvements to syphilis management in MCH services in Cambodia.