bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Membrane composition and organization of Bacillus subtilis 168 and its genome‐reduced derivative miniBacillus PG10
Authors: van Tilburg Amanda Y. , Warmer Philipp , van Heel Auke J. , Sauer Uwe , Kuipers Oscar P. 
Published: December 2021

SummaryA form of lateral membrane compartmentalization in bacteria is represented by functional membrane microdomains (FMMs). FMMs are important for various cellular processes and offer application possibilities in microbial biotechnology. We designed a lipidomics method to directly measure relative abundances of lipids in detergent‐resistant and detergent‐sensitive membrane fractions of the model bacterium Bacillus subtilis 168 and the biotechnologically attractive miniBacillus PG10 strain. Our study supports previous work suggesting that cardiolipin and prenol lipids are enriched in FMMs of B. subtilis. Additionally, structural analysis of acyl chains of major phospholipids indicated that FMMs display increased order and thickness compared with the surrounding bilayer. Despite the 36% genome reduction, membrane and FMM integrity are largely preserved in miniBacillus PG10, as supported by analysis of membrane fluidity, flotillin distribution and gene expression data. The novel insights in FMM architecture reported here will contribute to further explore the biological significance of FMMs and the means by which FMMs can be exploited as heterologous production platforms. Moreover, our lipidomics method enables comparative FMM lipid profiling between different bacteria.
Accumulated precipitation and air density are linked to termite (Blattodea) flight synchronism in a Seasonally Dry Tropical Forest in north‐eastern Brazil
Authors: Lucena Emanuelly F , Silva Israel S , Monteiro Sara R P , Moura Flávia M S , Vasconcellos Alexandre 
Published: December 2021

AbstractTermite dispersal flights (Blattodea: Termitoidae) are influenced by several factors that are intrinsic and extrinsic to colonies and vary according to the environment and target species. This study aimed to evaluate the main characteristics of the dispersal flights of a termite community and the environmental variables related to these flights in a Seasonally Dry Tropical Forest, situated in the semiarid region of north‐eastern Brazil. The alates were collected with trays placed on the ground. Sampling was carried out over a year, with weekly trap reviews. Flight peaks started in February; i.e. these events were more frequent and alates from all species were captured. The trays were checked daily for 40 days during this period. A principal coordinate analysis was performed to determine the response variables and, after that, a generalised linear model was performed to analyse the relationship between these variables and environmental variations. Alates of 37 species were captured and the community flight pattern proved to be synchronised and highly temporally concentrated, regardless of family, subfamily or even genera. The daily sampling analysis showed that 97% of species flights occurred between the 13th and 33rd days following the start of the 40 days of daily revisions. The number of flight occurrences and species composition were significantly influenced by the accumulated precipitation over 72 h and air density. The latter variable was evaluated for the first time in this type of study. The high synchronism between species may be related to the brief period in which arid and semiarid ecosystems have the correct conditions for alate flights, which is different to alate flight occurrence in tropical rainforests, where the environmental conditions usually allow termites to fly throughout the entire year.
Recent advancement of decellularization extracellular matrix for tissue engineering and biomedical application
Authors: Yang Jiamin , Dang Hangyu , Xu Yi 
Published: December 2021

AbstractBackgroundDecellularized extracellular matrixs (dECMs) derived from organs and tissues have emerged as a promising tool, as they encompass the characteristics of an ideal tissue scaffold: complex composition, vascular networks and unique tissue‐specific architecture. Consequently, their use has propagated throughout tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. dECM can be easily obtained from various tissues/organs by appropriate decellularization protocolsand is entitled to provide necessary cues to cells homing.MethodsIn this review, we describe the decellularization and sterilization methods that are commonly used in recent research, the effects of these methods upon biologic scaffold material are discussed. Also, we summarize the recent developments of recellularization and vascularization techniques in regeneration medicine. Additionally, dECM preservation methods is mentioned, which provides the basis for the establishment of organ bank.ResultsBiomedical applications and the status of current research developments relating to dECM biomaterials are outlined, including transplantation in vivo, disease models and drug screening, organoid, 3D bioprinting, tissue reconstruction and rehabilitation and cell transplantation and culture. Finally, critical challenges and future developing technologies are discussed.ConclusionsWith the development of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, dECM will have broader applications in the field of biomedicine in the near future.
In silico design, chemical synthesis and biological screening of novel 4‐(1H)‐pyridone‐based antimalarial agents
Authors: Audu Oluwatosin , Stander Andre , Ajani Olayinka , Egieyeh Samuel , October Natasha 
Published: December 2021

AbstractIdentifying novel lead compounds in drug discovery has been challenging because of the rapid rise of drug resistance to the existing chemotherapeutics and a lack of understanding of complex metabolic pathways in the parasite. Integrating computational and experimental approaches has shown to be of great worth in identifying and developing novel promising pharmacophore hybrids. In this present research, a series of new 4‐(1H)‐pyridone‐derived antimalarial agents were designed based on recent reports and our preliminary findings through in silico studies. Two of the 4‐(1H)‐Pyridone derivatives showed potential to bind to the Q0 site of the cytochrome bc1 complex and disrupt the mitochondrial electron transport chain. These compounds, along with previously synthesized compounds, exhibited significant inhibitory activities against the malaria parasite. Presently, seven compounds were successfully synthesized, characterized and these novel compounds have shown promise as antimalarial agents.
Chronic sublethal pesticide exposure affects brood production, morphology and endosymbionts, but not immunity in the ant, Cardiocondyla obscurior
Authors: Leponiemi Matti , Schultner Eva , Dickel Franziska , Freitak Dalial 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Insect diversity and biomass have been declining around the world. This might have severe consequences on the environment since insects provide many crucial ecosystem services. One major driver behind the decline is continuous pesticide use which also affects nontarget organisms. Even at low doses, chronic exposure to pesticides may have negative long‐term effects. Ants have not received much attention in this context, despite their importance in terrestrial ecosystems.
A full factorial experimental design was used to test how ingestion of two widely used pesticides influence colonies of the ant Cardiocondyla obscurior. Colonies were exposed for 12 weeks to the herbicide glyphosate and the neonicotinoid insecticide thiacloprid, separately and in combination. Brood production and the size of new workers and queens produced in these colonies were measured. In addition, the relative densities of two endosymbionts were quantified and immunocompetence tested by measuring survival after fungal infection.
The two pesticides in combination decreased brood production, which was measured as the number of produced eggs and pupae. Workers and queens produced in pesticide‐exposed colonies differed in body size from individuals produced in control colonies. Furthermore, endosymbiont densities decreased after glyphosate exposure. Neither pesticide influenced survival after fungal infection.
The results show that chronic exposure to two widely used pesticides causes apparent trade‐offs in reproduction and other physiological traits of ants, potentially decreasing fitness. Even low levels of pesticides in the environment may therefore have negative effects on ant colonies, contributing to the worldwide insect decline.
Combining Process Information and Item Response Modeling to Estimate Problem‐Solving Ability
Authors: Xiao Yue , Veldkamp Bernard , Liu Hongyun 
Published: December 2021

AbstractThe action sequences of respondents in problem‐solving tasks reflect rich and detailed information about their performance, including differences in problem‐solving ability, even if item scores are equal. It is therefore not sufficient to infer individual problem‐solving skills based solely on item scores. This study is a preliminary attempt to incorporate process data analysis into the measurement of problem‐solving ability. The entire procedure consists of using information from process data as prior information for the estimation of problem‐solving proficiency in an item response model. The purpose of this study is twofold: (1) to investigate the impact of adding process information on the estimation of latent ability; (2) to examine the extent to which the ability estimates obtained from the combination model can reflect the information of the problem‐solving process. Seven problem‐solving items from the Programme for International Assessment of Adult Competencies were used. Results indicate that the inclusion of process priors enhances the correlation between proficiency estimates and process information related to the problem‐solving strategies adopted by respondents, as well as to their solution efficiency. The inclusion of process priors further reveals differences in the problem‐solving performance of respondents exhibiting the same score pattern and increases precision of latent ability estimation.
Energy‐efficient routing paradigm for resource‐constrained Internet of Things‐based cognitive smart city
Authors: Verma Sandeep 
Published: December 2021

AbstractThe exponential growth in the smart cities and the massive deployment of wireless sensor network‐based Internet of Things (IoT) has resulted in generating the humongous data, which needs to be orchestrated. Further, it is observed that the resource‐constrained IoT devices act as stumbling block in the successful realization of cognitive smart cities. Hence, there is a high need to manage the data transmission from massive IoT devices and also to enhance the productivity of such devices. To address this issue, in this article, we present energy‐efficient routing paradigm for resource‐constrained IoT‐based cognitive smart city (EI‐CSC). We adapt Sooty tern optimization algorithm (STOA) due to its faster convergence and high ‘exploration and exploitation’ capabilities to perform energy efficient cluster‐based routing. We focus primarily on rendering the optimized solution to the cluster head selection problem through STOA. The outcomes of simulation analysis of EI‐CSC promises enhanced performance in the context of stability period and network lifetime by 83.4% and 107.7%, ‘respectively’ as compared to recently proposed ‘genetic algorithm and PSO based hybrid clustering algorithm’.
Recognition of potential therapeutic role of 2‐hydroxy‐3‐methylanthraquinones in the treatment of gallbladder carcinoma: A proteomics analysis
Authors: Jin Hao , Cui Min 
Published: December 2021

AbstractGallbladder carcinoma (GBC), with early metastasis and high recurrence rates, is an enormous threat to health. As an anthraquinones monomer of traditional Chinese medicineHedyotis diffusa, 2‐hydroxy‐3‐methylanthraquinone (HMA) has been reported to inhibit the growth of several cancers. But in our preliminary study, HMA could only weakly induce GBC cell apoptosis. To explore other possible mechanism underlying the inhibition effect of HMA on GBC, this proteomics analysis was performed. A proteomics analysis was performed on one GBC cell line bought from the China Life Science Cell Bank. Several computational techniques were merged to develop analysis for those differently expressed proteins. A comparative protein–protein interaction network analysis was carried out among the differently expressed proteins to identify the proteins potentially inhibiting GBC. Thus, a GO and KEGG analysis was performed to identify the signaling pathways underlying a potential therapeutic role for HMA. A total of 285 proteins were affected by HMA, including 187 upregulated and 98 downregulated. The subcellular localization of differently expressed proteins were identified, including 142 in nuclear, 67 in cytoplasm, 67 in extracellular matrix, 46 in plasma membrane, 13 in mitochondrion, 3 in lysosome, and 1 in cytoskeleton. HMA could regulate EGFR, FN1, PLG, PLAUR, LAMA3, HRG, THBS1, PLAT, KNG1, ENAM, SERPINE1, ECM1, interleukin‐8, and trypsin in GBC. Most of the regulated proteins involve in cell migration. Pathways including PI3K–Akt, Wnt, HIF‐1, focal adhesion, microRNAs were regulated by HMA. HMA was shown to be an inhibition agent for GBC development, and this analysis would contribute to the development of new anti‐GBC drugs.
Literature searching methods or guidance and their application to public health topics: A narrative review
Authors: Heath Andrea , Levay Paul , Tuvey Daniel 
Published: December 2021

AbstractBackgroundInformation specialists conducting searches for systematic reviews need to consider key questions around which and how many sources to search. This is particularly important for public health topics where evidence may be found in diverse sources.ObjectivesThe objective of this review is to give an overview of recent studies on information retrieval guidance and methods that could be applied to public health evidence and used to guide future searches.MethodsA literature search was performed in core databases and supplemented by browsing health information journals and citation searching. Results were sifted and reviewed.ResultsSeventy‐two papers were found and grouped into themes covering sources and search techniques. Public health topics were poorly covered in this literature.DiscussionMany researchers follow the recommendations to search multiple databases. The review topic influences decisions about sources. Additional sources covering grey literature eliminate bias but are time‐consuming and difficult to search systematically. Public health searching is complex, often requiring searches in multidisciplinary sources and using additional methods.ConclusionsSearch planning is advisable to enable decisions about which and how many sources to search. This could improve with more work on modelling search scenarios, particularly in public health topics, to examine where publications were found and guide future research.
Purification and identification of novel antibacterial peptides isolated from Tualang honey
Authors: Aween Mohamed Mustafa , Hassan Zaiton , Muhialdin Belal J. 
Published: December 2021

SummaryThis study aimed to determine the role of bioactive peptides in the antibacterial activity of honey. The peptides were extracted, and the concentration was determined. The peptides were fractionated and evaluated for their antibacterial activity towards selected bacteria. The results showed high peptide content in Tualang honey 1.01 mg g−1. A total of seven essential amino acids were present in Tualang honey. The peptide mixture extracted from Tualang honey showed high antibacterial activity towards Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A total of 33 peptides were identified in the fractions 9 and 10 obtained from RP‐HPLC. The identified peptides belonged to different sources including novel peptides that have no match to the protein database. The results of this first study revealed the role of the peptides generated by honeybees, nectar and pollen, and novel peptides of the natural microflora in the antibacterial activity of honey.
Low clinical utility of testing for anti‐platelet factor 4 in asymptomatic individuals after ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19 vaccine
Authors: Barefah Ahmed S. , Radhwi Osman O. , Alamri Sawsan S. , Alahwal Hatem M. , Denetiu Iuliana , Almohammadi Abdullah T. , Bahashwan Salem M. , Qari Mohamad H. , Algaissi Abdullah , Alamer Edrous , Alhazmi Abdulaziz , Abuzenadah Adel M. , Nasraldeen Walleed H. , Alzahrani Sami H. , Hashem Anwar M. 
Published: December 2021

AbstractIntroductionThe development of anti‐platelet factor 4 (PF4) antibodies is linked to a rare thrombotic complication described now as vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT). This clinical syndrome with thrombosis and thrombocytopenia was reported after exposure to the Oxford‐AstraZeneca COVID‐19 vaccine, ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19 vaccine (AZD1222), and Ad26.COV2.S vaccine (Janssen/Johnson & Johnson). In the absence of the clinical features, the incidence of positive anti‐PF4 antibodies in asymptomatic individuals post‐vaccination is unclear.MethodsThe aim of this study was to evaluate the development of anti‐PF4 antibodies in asymptomatic individuals 14–21 days after receiving the first dose of ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19 vaccine (AZD1222) and BNT162b2 vaccine. Prospectively, we collected serum from individuals before and after ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19 vaccine and BNT162b2 vaccine and measured anti‐PF4 antibodies using the Asserachrom HPIA IgG ELISA (Stago, Asnieres, France).ResultsWe detected positive anti‐PF4 antibodies in 5 of 94 asymptomatic individuals post‐vaccine with a rate of 5.3% with low titers (OD 0.3–0.7). Four of 5 individuals who tested positive after the vaccine had also positive anti‐PF4 antibodies before the vaccine, which indicates that a majority of the positive results are due to preexisting anti‐PF4 antibodies. We did not find a relation between the development of anti‐PF4 antibodies and the immune response to the vaccine, status of prior COVID‐19 infection, and baseline characteristics of participants. None of the participants developed thrombosis nor thrombocytopenia.ConclusionOur results provide new evidence to guide the diagnostic algorithm of suspected cases of VITT. In the absence of thrombosis and thrombocytopenia, there is a low utility of testing for anti‐PF4 antibodies.
Negative aging perceptions and cognitive and functional decline: Are you as old as you feel?
Authors: McGarrigle Christine A. , Ward Mark , Kenny Rose Anne 
Published: December 2021

AbstractBackgroundResearch has shown the associations between negative aging perceptions and cognitive and physical decline may be mediated through behavioral and psychological pathways, but they are rarely examined simultaneously. We aimed at assessing the difference in the probability of following a high‐, mid‐, or low‐performing cognitive trajectory, and a high‐ or low‐performing physical function trajectory by negative aging perceptions. We sought to test two competing pathway mechanisms for the associations.MethodsThis longitudinal study used data from the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), a nationally representative study of community‐dwelling adults in Ireland. Adults aged ≥50 years who participated in two or more waves of TILDA (n = 6121) were included. An analysis of the population aged 65 years and above was also conducted (n = 2359). We identified latent class trajectories of Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL), ADL, and Timed‐Up‐and‐Go (TUG) performance using Latent Growth Class Analysis (LGCA) on data collected every 2 years over 5 waves. Multinomial logistic regression was used to estimate the likelihood of membership to each trajectory class by negative aging perceptions (APQ). Finally, we tested possible behavioral, psychological, and social mechanisms.ResultsLCGA identified three trajectory classes in cognitive and two in each physical function measure. People with the highest tertile of negative APQ were more likely to be in the declining MMSE class and the increasing IADL, ADL, and TUG classes. These associations for cognitive function were partially mediated by psychosocial pathways and for physical function were fully mediated by both psychosocial and health behavior pathways.ConclusionsNegative aging perceptions were associated with cognitive and physical function declines. Poor self‐rated health, depressive symptoms, loneliness, and low exercise seem to explain the relationships; however, the possibility of reverse causation remains.
Caring for patients with eating deficiencies in palliative care—Registered nurses’ experiences: A qualitative study
Authors: Wallin Viktoria , Mattsson Elisabet , Omerov Pernilla , Klarare Anna 
Published: December 2021

AbstractAims and ObjectivesThe aim was to explore RNs’ experiences of caring for patients with eating deficiencies in palliative care.BackgroundFood and mealtimes are fundamental aspects for wellbeing and social interactions. The worldwide trajectory of ageing populations may result in increased need for palliative care. Everyday life with chronic life limiting illness and eating deficiencies is challenging for patients and families. RNs are key care providers at end‐of‐life.DesignA qualitative study with an inductive approach was used.MethodsNineteen experienced RNs in palliative care were interviewed through telephone; interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Inductive qualitative content analysis was performed, and the COREQ checklist was used to guide proceedings.ResultsThe overarching theme, Supporting persons with eating deficiencies in‐between palliative care and end‐of‐life care, is represented by three sub‐themes: Easy to stick with doing, Just being, without doing, is hard and Letting go. Near end‐of‐life, eating symbolized social belonging and quality of life for RNs, whereas for patients and families, eating symbolized life. RNs tried practical solutions, however, not always according to patients’ and families’ preferences.ConclusionsRNs were well prepared to tackle physical inconveniences and provide support, however, less prepared to encounter existential, psychological and social issues in relation to eating deficiencies. Although RNs stated that human beings stop eating when they are about to die, letting nature run its’ course and facilitating patients’ transition to end‐of‐life care was challenging.Relevance to clinical practiceFood and mealtimes represent fundamental aspects of human life and denote central parts in RNs clinical practice in palliative care. The findings can inspire development of a comprehensive palliative care approach to support patients and families. Structured reflection in relation to clinical practice may support and encourage RNs, caring for patients with eating deficiencies, in mastering both doing and being.