bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Bacillus subtilis ΔpdxT mutant suppresses vitamin B6 limitation by acquiring mutations enhancing pdxS gene dosage and ammonium assimilation
Authors: Richts Björn , Lentes Sabine , Poehlein Anja , Daniel Rolf , Commichau Fabian M. 
Published: February 2021

SummaryPyridoxal‐5′‐phosphate (PLP), the biologically active form of vitamin B6, serves as a cofactor for many enzymes. The Gram‐positive model bacterium Bacillus subtilis synthesizes PLP via the PdxST enzyme complex, consisting of the PdxT glutaminase and the PdxS PLP synthase subunits, respectively. PdxT converts glutamine to glutamate and ammonia of which the latter is channelled to PdxS. At high extracellular ammonium concentrations, the PdxS PLP synthase subunit does not depend on PdxT. Here, we assessed the potential of a B. subtilis ΔpdxT mutant to adapt to PLP limitation at the genome level. The majority of ΔpdxT suppressors had amplified a genomic region containing the pdxS gene. We also identified mutants having acquired as yet undescribed mutations in ammonium assimilation genes, indicating that the overproduction of PdxS and the NrgA ammonium transporter partially relieve vitamin B6 limitation in a ΔpdxT mutant when extracellular ammonium is scarce. Furthermore, we found that PdxS positively affects complex colony formation in B. subtilis. The catalytic mechanism of the PdxS PLP synthase subunit could be the reason for the limited evolution of the enzyme and why we could not identify a PdxS variant producing PLP independently of PdxT at low ammonium concentrations.
Taurine represses age‐associated gut hyperplasia in Drosophila via counteracting endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Du Gang , Liu Zhiming , Yu Zihua , Zhuo Zhangpeng , Zhu Yuedan , Zhou Juanyu , Li Yang , Chen Haiyang 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAs they age, adult stem cells become more prone to functional decline, which is responsible for aging‐associated tissue degeneration and diseases. One goal of aging research is to identify drugs that can repair age‐associated tissue degeneration. Multiple organ development‐related signaling pathways have recently been demonstrated to have functions in tissue homeostasis and aging process. Therefore, in this study, we tested several chemicals that are essential for organ development to assess their ability to delay intestinal stem cell (ISC) aging and promote gut function in adult Drosophila. We found that taurine, a free amino acid that supports neurological development and tissue metabolism in humans, represses ISC hyperproliferation and restrains the intestinal functional decline seen in aged animals. We found that taurine represses age‐associated ISC hyperproliferation through a mechanism that eliminated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by upregulation of the target genes of unfolded protein response in the ER (UPRER) and inhibiting the c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) signaling. Our findings show that taurine plays a critical role in delaying the aging process in stem cells and suggest that it may be used as a natural compound for the treatment of age‐associated, or damage‐induced intestinal dysfunction in humans.
Perineal hernia repair after abdominoperineal rectal excision with prosthetic mesh—a single surgeon experience
Authors: Morales‐Cruz Mariana , Oliveira‐Cunha Melissa , Chaudhri Sanjay 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAimExtralevator abdominoperineal excision for rectal cancer is associated with an increased incidence of perineal hernia. The purpose of this study was to determine clinical outcome following perineal hernia repair with prosthetic mesh by a perineal open approach.MethodsWe present a case series of 10 patients who underwent 12 repairs of their hernia using a prosthetic mesh placed by a perineal open technique. Patients were identified from a prospectively maintained database and their case records were retrieved along with their imaging and analysed retrospectively.ResultsPerineal hernia incidence in our series is 10%. The median age was 73 ± 5.9 years. No gender predilection was found. The median time interval between extralevator abdominoperineal excision and surgical repair of perineal hernia was 25.3 months. The surgical approach was perineal with the use of a double layer prosthetic mesh. The recurrence ratio was 30% (n = 3). Overall morbidity was also 30% with no major complications (Clavien–Dindo I–II). Recurrence following primary repair was diagnosed in a median time interval of 28.3 ± 16.57 months. Two patients had repeat surgery to treat their recurrence.ConclusionsOur small series supports the use of a prosthetic mesh repair of perineal hernias through a perineal approach. It is safe and effective with complication rates similar to those previously reported.
A randomized, placebo‐controlled trial to assess the efficacy and safety of sitagliptin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes and inadequate glycaemic control on ipragliflozin
Authors: Seino Yutaka , Kaku Kohei , Kadowaki Takashi , Okamoto Taro , Sato Asako , Shirakawa Masayoshi , O'Neill Edward A. , Engel Samuel S. , Kaufman Keith D. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAimsTo investigate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of sitagliptin 50 mg once daily added to ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily monotherapy in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).Materials and MethodsJapanese patients with T2D and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 7.0% to 10.0% while treated with ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily were randomized 1:1 to additional treatment with sitagliptin 50 mg once daily (N = 70) or matching placebo (N = 71) for 24 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was change in HbA1c at Week 24. Secondary efficacy endpoints were changes in 2‐hour post‐meal glucose (PMG), total PMG 0‐ to 2‐hour area under the curve (AUC0‐2h), and fasting plasma glucose (FPG).ResultsBaseline characteristics were similar in the two groups (mean age 55.5 years, mean baseline HbA1c 8.0%). After 24 weeks, the addition of sitagliptin provided significantly greater reduction in HbA1c compared to placebo (least squares [LS] mean difference −0.83% [95% confidence interval −1.05, −0.62]; P <0.001). Significant reductions were also observed in all secondary endpoints: LS mean differences from placebo in changes in 2‐hour PMG, total PMG AUC0‐2h, and FPG were −42.5 mg/dL, −67.0 mg·h/dL and −11.2 mg/dL, respectively (all P <0.001). The incidence of adverse events (AEs) overall and incidence of predefined AEs of clinical interest (symptomatic hypoglycaemia, urinary tract infection, genital infection, hypovolaemia and polyuria/pollakiuria) were similar in the two groups.ConclusionsIn Japanese patients with T2D, sitagliptin 50 mg once daily added to ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily monotherapy provided significant improvement in glycaemic control and was generally well tolerated. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02577016.
Retrospective analysis of oblique and straight distal sesamoidean ligament desmitis in 52 horses
Authors: Hawkins Alex , O’Leary Lauren , Bolt David , Fiske‐Jackson Andrew , Berner Dagmar , Smith Roger 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundInjuries to the oblique (ODSL) or straight (SDSL) distal sesamoidean ligaments are a recognised cause of distal limb lameness in the horse. However, there are only limited publications addressing common diagnostic features and prognosis.Objectives(a) Report findings on ultrasonography and standing low‐field magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) in horses with ODSL or SDSL injury; (b) Identify clinical variables associated with lesion type and (c) Identify factors associated with return to soundness in horses with ODSL or SDSL injury.Study designRetrospective case series.MethodsHorses with a primary diagnosis of ODSL or SDSL injury confirmed with a combination of diagnostic analgesia and detection of a lesion on imaging (ultrasonographic ± advanced imaging) were included. Return to soundness and performance follow‐up data were obtained.ResultsFifty‐one horses were included. SDSL injuries were more common in the forelimb (13/21, 62%), while ODSL injuries had equal frequency in fore‐ (15/30, 50%) and hindlimbs (15/30, 50%). ODSL injuries were more likely than SDSL injuries to affect the proximal third of the ligament (OR =13; 95% CI 2.3‐74.3; p = 0.004) and often presented with periligamentar swelling (20/30;67%) and focal pain (22/28;79%). Lesions were frequently detected using ultrasonography (35/42;83%) and sMRI examination (18/25;72%). Only 27/49 cases (55%) returned to soundness, with only 15/49 (31%) returning to intended use. There were no significant associations between outcome and clinical features or treatment.Main limitationsThere was no comparative “gold standard” to validate lesions such as high‐field MRI or histopathology.ConclusionsIn contrast to previous studies, ODSL and SDSL injuries were readily identified ultrasonographically using appropriate views, and with sMRI. Given the limited availability, cost and general anaesthetic risks associated with high‐field MRI, more focus should be placed on optimising the ultrasonographic examination. Owners of affected horses should be informed of the guarded prognosis for return to full use.
Foodwork and foodcare in hard times: Mothering, value, and values
Authors: Parsons Elizabeth , Harman Vicki , Cappellini Benedetta 
Published: February 2021

AbstractIn this article, we analyze the foodwork of mothers when feeding their families on low and reduced incomes. By exploring their accounts of food shopping and household budgeting, we argue that foodwork is intrinsically linked to other areas of social life and dominant values associated with “good mothering.” Through a careful consideration of the contexts and relations in which foodwork is valued, embedded, and made meaningful, we draw two key conclusions. First, we find that mothers' foodwork is oriented towards avoiding devaluation and maintaining a level of respectability as opposed to accumulating cultural capital. Second, we introduce the concept of foodcare arguing that it potentially offers low income mothers an alternative to the logic of capital for their demonstration of self‐worth.
Effective reduction of post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation with the tyrosinase inhibitor isobutylamido‐thiazolyl‐resorcinol (Thiamidol)
Authors: Roggenkamp Dennis , Dlova Ncoza , Mann Tobias , Batzer Jan , Riedel Julia , Kausch Martina , Zoric Ivica , Kolbe Ludger 
Published: February 2021

AbstractObjectivePost‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a major cosmetic concern especially in individuals with darker skin complexion. Unfortunately, treatment with anti‐inflammatory ingredients alone does not prevent the development of hyperpigmented spots. Recently, isobutylamido‐thiazolyl‐resorcinol (Thiamidol) was described as a very potent inhibitor of human tyrosinase. The objective of this research was to investigate the potential of this compound to prevent PIH induced by epidermal wounding (suction blister) and related to acne.MethodsSuction blister‐induced PIH was treated with a formulation containing Thiamidol or a vehicle for 3 months, and the changes in hyperpigmentation were monitored by spectroscopic measurements. The effect of skin care formulations containing Thiamidol on acne‐related PIH was investigated in two studies, a vehicle‐controlled, double‐blinded, randomized clinical study and a clinical observational study. Both studies had a duration of 3 months and included assessments such as clinical photography, clinical grading and melanin index measurements.ResultsAlready after 2 weeks of treatment, suction blister sites treated with Thiamidol were significantly lighter than control sites and improved throughout the treatment period. Subjects´ self‐grading demonstrated that Thiamidol significantly improved the visibility of acne‐induced hyperpigmentation compared to the vehicle treatment. A skin care regimen with Thiamidol significantly improved acne‐related PIH over 12 weeks shown by Mexameter measurements, expert grading, self‐grading and clinical photography.ConclusionThiamidol represents a safe and effective ingredient for cosmetic products against post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Water‐in‐oil microemulsions composed of monoolein enhanced the transdermal delivery of nicotinamide
Authors: Kitaoka Momoko , Nguyen Trung Cong , Goto Masahiro 
Published: February 2021

AbstractObjectiveNicotinamide, also known as niacinamide, is a water‐soluble vitamin that is used to prevent and treat acne and pellagra. It is often found in water‐based skin care cosmetics because of its high water solubility. Nicotinamide is a small molecule with a molar mass of 122.1 g/mol. However, it has a hydrophilic nature that becomes an obstacle when it penetrates through the skin. The topmost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, acts as a strong hydrophobic barrier for such hydrophilic molecules. The oil‐based formulations are expected to enhance the transdermal delivery efficiency of nicotinamide.MethodsWe have developed oil‐based microemulsion formulations composed of a squalane vehicle. Monoolein was used as an emulsifier that has a potential to enhance the nicotinamide delivery through the stratum corneum.ResultsBecause the mean size of the emulsions measured by dynamic light scattering was 20.9 ± 0.4 nm, the microemulsion formulation was stable under the long‐term storage. Monoolein acted as a skin penetration enhancer, and it effectively enabled the penetration of nicotinamide through human abdominal skin, compared with nicotinamide in a phosphate‐buffered saline solution. The flux was increased 25‐fold. Microscopic imaging revealed that the hydrophilic bioactive compounds penetrated through the intercellular spaces in the epidermis.ConclusionThe monoolein‐based microemulsion was transparent and stable, suggesting that it is a promising formulation for a transdermal nicotinamide delivery.
Adhesion to E‐selectin primes macrophages for activation through AKT and mTOR
Authors: Davies Julie M , Radford Kristen J , Begun Jakob , Levesque Jean‐Pierre , Winkler Ingrid G 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe endothelial adhesion protein E‐selectin/CD62E is not required for leukocyte homing, unlike closely related family member P‐selectin/CD62P. As transmigration through the endothelium is one of the first steps in generating a local immune response, we hypothesized that E‐selectin may play additional roles in the early stages of immune activation. We found contact with E‐selectin, but not P‐selectin or vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (CD106), induced phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT) and nuclear factor‐κB in mouse bone marrow‐derived macrophages (BMDMs) in vitro. This occurred within 15 min of E‐selectin contact and was dependent on phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase activity. Binding to E‐selectin activated downstream proteins including mammalian target of rapamycin, p70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E‐binding protein 1. Functionally, adhesion to E‐selectin induced upregulation of CD86 expression and CCL2 secretion. We next asked whether contact with E‐selectin impacts further BMDM stimulation. We found enhanced secretion of both interleukin (IL)‐10 and CCL2, but not tumor necrosis factor or IL‐6 in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation after adhesion to E‐selectin. Importantly, adhesion to E‐selectin did not polarize BMDMs to one type of response but enhanced both arginase activity and nitric oxide production following IL‐4 or LPS stimulation, respectively. In cultured human monocytes, adhesion to E‐selectin similarly induced phosphorylation of AKT. Finally, when E‐selectin was blocked in vivo in mice, thioglycollate‐elicited macrophages showed reduced CD86 expression, validating our in vitro studies. Our results imply functions for E‐selectin beyond homing and suggest that E‐selectin plays an early role in priming and amplifying innate immune responses.
Human antiviral B cell responses: Emerging lessons from hepatitis B and COVID‐19
Authors: Burton Alice R. , Maini Mala K. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractHumoral immunity is a critical component of the coordinated response required to resolve viral infections and mediate protection following pathogen clearance or vaccination. A better understanding of factors shaping the memory B cell response will allow tailored development of efficient preventative vaccines against emerging acute viral infections, therapeutic vaccines, and immunotherapies for chronic viral infections. Here, we use recent data obtained by profiling antigen‐specific B cell responses in hepatitis B as a framework to explore lessons that can be learnt from different viral infections about the diverse influences on humoral immunity. Hepatitis B provides a paradigm where successful B cell responses in resolved or vaccinated individuals can be contrasted to the failed response in chronic infection, while also exemplifying the degree to which B cell responses within infected individuals can differ to two antigens from the same virus. Drawing on studies in other human and murine infections, including emerging data from COVID‐19, we consider the influence of antigen quantity and structure on the quality of the B cell response, the role of differential CD4 help, the importance of germinal center vs extrafollicular responses and the emerging concept that responses residing in non‐lymphoid organs can participate in B cell memory.
Multiagent systems for modeling the information game in a financial market
Authors: Ben Abdelaziz Fouad , Mrad Fatma 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThis paper aims to examine the information game in an artificial financial market. The main objective of this work is to implement an agent‐based model that simulates complex stock markets. Similar existing simulation models address the buying and selling of assets but do not investigate the information exchange process. We extend the previous model by investigating the information exchange process during the transaction process. In this research, we simulate an asynchronous marketplace where interacting and heterogeneous agents exchange information and assets simultaneously. We study the effect of heterogeneous and cumulative information setup on the volume of transactions and the price dynamics during market sessions. We argue that the right interpretation of relevant information is conducive to rational decision‐making by the simulated agents. Our simulation shows that stock market results are sensitive to the type of information about agents. Our model will enhance the exchange decisions in the markets, which will lead to more efficiency.
The expression and receipt of compassion through touch in a health setting; a qualitative study
Authors: Durkin Joanne , Jackson Debra , Usher Kim 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAimTo investigate and understand how compassion is expressed by nurses and received by patients in a hospital setting.BackgroundConcerns regarding the absence of compassion in a healthcare setting has necessitated further research in the field. To define and measure compassion is difficult and problematic. Compassion is subjective and in the contemporary literature the views of patients are under‐represented. Touch is an important component of nursing practice and can also be considered problematic.DesignSecondary analysis of narrative interviews.MethodsSecondary analysis of 12 participant interviews with nurses (n‐4) and patients (n‐8). Data were collected between August 2018 and August 2019.FindingsCompassion was expressed and received through touch for nurses and patients. Patients receive compassion through the touch of the nurse and this touch conveyed comfort and safety. Touch allowed for the establishment of an authentic connection between nurse and patient. Nurses used touch to express compassion and patients received compassion when they were comforted with touch. Compassion was present in incidental touch and deliberate comforting touch. Nurses were respectful of the meanings of touch. Patients describe nurses knowing when to touch and using touch appropriately.ConclusionsNurses in our study were respectful of the meaning of touch for their patients and described using touch to convey compassion. Patients in our study perceived compassion through the touch by the nurse. Through these narratives, touch is revealed as an essential part of compassionate practice conveying safety, authenticity and connection.ImpactPatients in this study describe receiving compassion through the use of touch which made them feel safe. Nurses in this study used touch to create an authentic connection with patients and were aware of the different meanings of touch. Avoiding touch, being wary of touch, or considering touch taboo robs patients of compassion moments.
Nursing students’ academic self‐efficacy: A longitudinal analysis of academic self‐efficacy changes and predictive variables over time
Authors: Bulfone Giampiera , Badolamenti Sondra , Biagioli Valentina , Maurici Massimo , Macale Loreana , Sili Alessandro , Vellone Ercole , Alvaro Rosaria 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAimTo analyse any changes seen in the academic self‐efficacy of nursing students during the three years of their academic education as well as the associated predictive factors.DesignA longitudinal study design was applied.MethodsThe sample included 220 students who attended a large university in central Italy. The students’ academic self‐efficacy was measured using the Academic Nurses’ Self‐Efficacy Scale. Data were collected annually from 2014/2015 to 2017/2018 at the beginning of the first year (T0), at the end of the first year (T1), at the end of the second year (T2) and at the end of the third year (T3). A repeated measure univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to detect any possible changes in the students’ academic self‐efficacy scores over the four measurement points. To identify the factors that are predictive of academic self‐efficacy, a linear regression model was used.ResultsOverall, the students’ academic self‐efficacy did not change significantly over the three‐year period of their education. Both sex (female) and age (24–50 years) during T0–T2 significantly predicted changes in the students’ academic self‐efficacy over time. Moreover female students started with lower academic self‐efficacy scores than male students, although their academic self‐efficacy increased over time, while the male students’ academic self‐efficacy actually decreased over time. In addition, students with a scientific background reported higher academic self‐efficacy than other students.ConclusionsAlthough the students’ academic self‐efficacy did not change over time, from a theoretical perspective, academic self‐efficacy can be developed using a number of strategies such as a well‐organised tutorial during the clinical learning phase and feedback or encouragement.ImpactAcademic staff should monitor nursing students’ academic self‐efficacy over time, particularly in the case of male and younger students, students with a partner and students with a humanities background during the first 2 years of the course.