bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CslA and GlxA fromStreptomyces lividansform a functional cellulose synthase complex
Authors: Zhong Xiaobo , Nicolardi Simone , Ouyang Ruochen , Wuhrer Manfred , Du Chao , van Wezel Gilles , Vijgenboom Erik , Briegel Ariane , Claessen Dennis 
Published: November 2023

AbstractFilamentous growth of streptomycetes coincides with the synthesis and deposition of an uncharacterized protective glucan at hyphal tips. Synthesis of this glucan depends on the integral membrane protein CslA and the radical copper oxidase GlxA, which are part of a presumably large multiprotein complex operating at growing tips. Here, we show that CslA and GlxA interact by forming a protein complex that is sufficient to synthesize cellulose in vitro. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed that the purified complex produces cellulose chains with a degree of polymerization of at least 80 residues. Truncation analyses demonstrated that the removal of a significant extracellular segment of GlxA had no impact on complex formation, but significantly diminished activity of CslA. Altogether, our work demonstrates that CslA and GlxA form the active core of the cellulose synthase complex and provides molecular insights into a unique cellulose biosynthesis system that is conserved in streptomycetes.SignificanceCellulose stands out as the most abundant polysaccharide on Earth. While the synthesis of this polysaccharide has been extensively studied in plants and Gram-negative bacteria, the mechanisms in Gram-positive bacteria have remained largely unknown. Our research unveils a novel cellulose synthase complex formed by the interaction between the cellulose synthase-like protein CslA and the radical copper oxidase GlxA fromStreptomyces lividans, a soil-dwelling Gram-positive bacterium. This discovery provides molecular insights into the distinctive cellulose biosynthesis machineries. Beyond expanding our understanding of cellulose biosynthesis, this study also opens avenues for exploring biotechnological applications and ecological roles of cellulose in Gram-positive bacteria, thereby contributing to the broader field of microbial cellulose biosynthesis and biofilm research.
Experience reduces route selection on conspecifics by the collectively migrating white stork
Authors: Brønnvik Hester , Nourani Elham , Fiedler Wolfgang , Flack Andrea 
Published: November 2023

SummaryMigration can be an energetically costly behavior with strong fitness consequences in terms of mortality and reproduction1–11. Migrants should select migratory routes to minimize their costs, but both costs and benefits may change with experience12–14. This raises the question of whether experience changes how individuals select their migratory routes. Here we investigate the effect of age on route selection criteria in a collectively migrating soaring bird, the white stork (Ciconia ciconia). We perform step selection analysis on a longitudinal data set tracking 158 white storks over up to nine years to quantify how they select their routes based on the social and atmospheric environments, and to examine how this selection changes with age. We find clear ontogenetic shifts in route selection criteria. Juveniles choose routes that have good atmospheric conditions and high conspecific densities. Yet, as they gain experience storks’ selection on the availability of social information reduces—after their fifth migration experienced birds also choose routes with low conspecific densities. Thus, our results suggest that as individuals age, they gradually replace information gleaned from other individuals with information gained from experience, allowing them to shift their migration timing and increasing the time scale at which they select their routes.
Exploring accounting students' experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic to inform teaching and learning decision-making post pandemic
Authors: Brink Sophia Magaretha 
Published: November 2023

PurposeThe objective of the study was to explore which COVID-19 teaching and learning methods, that enhanced accounting students' learning experience, should be applied at a residential university after the pandemic.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative exploratory approach within an interpretive paradigm was applied. A total of 15 semi-structured interviews were conducted with accounting students and the data were analysed using thematic analysis.FindingsThis study shows how pre-COVID-19 accounting education can be adapted by learning from the teaching and learning experiences gained during the pandemic and that there are various teaching and learning methods that can be applied in the post-COVID-19 period to enhance students' learning experience. These blended active teaching and learning methods include: the flipped classroom, discussion forum, electronic platform (to ask questions during class), key-concept videos and summary videos. Introducing these teaching and learning methods comes with challenges and the study provides recommendations on how to overcome foreseen obstacles. The contribution of the research is that it informs accounting lecturers' decision-making regarding which teaching and learning methods to apply in the aftermath of COVID-19 to enhance students' learning experience.Originality/valueIt is uncertain which teaching and learning methods employed during the COVID-19 pandemic should be applied at a residential university to enhance the teaching and learning experience after the pandemic. Accounting lecturers might return to their pre-COVID-19 modus operandi, and the valuable experience gained during the pandemic will have served no purpose.
Saving by buying ahead: stockpiling in response to lump‐sum payments
Authors: Collins J. Michael , Kulka Amrita 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBy purchasing larger quantities of goods and saving them for future consumption households are able to reduce transaction costs and acquire goods at a lower price per unit, presuming they can manage the transportation and storage costs. This study uses variations in state income tax refunds over time to estimate consumption responses to lump‐sum payments. Households purchase around 20 per cent more of easily stored toilet paper in the months in which tax refunds are issued, but do not increase purchases of perishables such as bread and eggs. In addition to purchasing more goods at a lower per‐unit price, households also appear to increase the time until their next purchase, which implies that they are saving goods for consumption over time. These in‐kind savings allow people to smooth their consumption over time, much like pecuniary savings. Government payments that provide lump‐sum payments can benefit consumers by providing additional liquidity to buy and store goods at a lower cost.
H.O.P.E. grows: An academic‐public health partnership to reimagine public health services and increase mental health access among socially vulnerable populations
Authors: Scott Victoria C. , Tolley Annalise J. , Langhinrichsen‐Rohling Jennifer , Walker Kayla , Greene Tamikia 
Published: November 2023

AbstractObjectiveTo illustrate the process of developing and sustaining an academic‐public health partnership for behavioral health integration through an expansion of the Aligning Systems for Health (ASfH) framework.Study SettingPractice‐informed primary data (2017–2023) from the Holistic Opportunity Program for Everyone (HOPE) Initiative based in Charlotte, NC.Study DesignThe unit of analysis in this descriptive case study is inter‐organizational, specifically focusing on an academic‐public health relationship. We illustrate the partnership process across the ASfH four core areas, including key challenges and insights.Data CollectionUtilized a Critical Moments Reflection methodology and review of HOPE program data.Principal Findings(1) Formal partnership structures and processes are essential to monitoring the four ASfH core components for on‐going system alignment. (2) Aligning systems for health principally involves two ecologies: (i) the health program and (ii) the partnership. The vitality and sustainability of both ecologies require continuous attention and resource investment. (3) Relationships rest at the heart of aligning systems. (4) With comparative advantages in research methods, the academic sector is especially poised to collaborate with healthcare systems and human service organizations to study, develop, implement, and scale evidence‐based health interventions.ConclusionsThe academic sector shares overlapping purposes with the public health, healthcare, and social services sectors while providing complementary value. It is a critical sectoral partner in advancing population health and health equity.
Ellagic acid‐loaded soy protein isolate self‐assembled particles: Characterization, stability, and antioxidant activity
Authors: Feng Yujin , Wu Kaiwen , Yu Genfa , Yi Fengping , Zhu Guangyong 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThe limited water solubility and bioactivity of lipophilic phytochemicals may be enhanced by delivery systems. Ellagic acid (EA) has antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties, but low solubility and instability limit its use in the food industry. In this study, the pH‐shift method was applied to encapsulate EA with soy protein isolate (SPI). The interaction, encapsulation, and protective potential of the EA‐loaded soy SPI complexes (SPI–EA) were investigated. The fluorescence spectra results suggest that the reaction between SPI and EA is spontaneous, with hydrophobic interactions predominating. Binding of EA molecules quenches the intrinsic fluorescence of SPI, mainly static quenching, with a binding site involved in the binding process. The ultraviolet (UV)–visible spectroscopy of the SPI–EA complexes included the characteristic absorption peaks of both SPI and EA, and the scanning electron microscopy images further indicated that the EA had been successfully embedded in SPI. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy illustrates that EA has significantly changed the secondary structure of the SPI, primarily in the form of a decreased content of α‐helix structures and an increased content of β‐sheet and random coil structures. The encapsulation efficiency of EA was concentration‐dependent, up to 81.08%. The addition of EA reduces the size of SPI particles (d < 155 nm). In addition, the SPI–EA complex showed up to 81.05% and 96.46% 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′‐azino‐bis (3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) radical scavenging activity. TGA showed that the degradation temperature of SPI–EA complex could be extended up to 300°C. And by encapsulation of EA, the loss of EA under the action of UV light, heat treatment, and high concentration of salt ion sensitive environment can be reduced.Practical ApplicationEllagic acid (EA), a natural bioactive with low water solubility and stability, can be enhanced by forming an inclusion complex with soy protein isolate (SPI). SPI–EA complex has broad potential applications in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. Multiple spectral analyses have contributed to our understanding of the formation and interaction mechanisms of the SPI–EA complex under pH‐driven conditions. Stability assays have also aided in the development of dietary resources for EA.
Optimal conditions for beef tenderization through radiofrequency heating with cold air
Authors: Kim Jinse , Choi Dong Soo , Kim Yong Hoon , Park Chun Wan , Kim Hyun Wook 
Published: November 2023

AbstractHigh‐temperature (15–37°C) aging can shorten the tenderizing time of beef; however, the use of constant temperature heating can lead to microbial spoilage. This study tested radiofrequency (RF) tenderization (RF‐T) to find the appropriate conditions for the aging‐like effect of beef without microbial spoilage. After subjecting beef to 22 h RF‐T with four different cooling temperatures (15, 5, −10, and −20°C), the proliferated aerobic bacteria on the surface showed a concentration of 6–6.2 log CFU/g at −10 and −20°C, lower than 7–7.5 log CFU/g at 15 and 5°C. When beef was treated with 25 W/kg RF heating power for 48 h RF‐T, the estimated reduction rate of the sliced shear force (SSF) and the increase rate of glutamic acid based on the weight before RF‐T were 22.6% and 1.51‐fold, which were greater than 19.6% and 1.37‐fold with 20 W/kg, and 11.0% and 1.11‐fold with 15 W/kg. The optimal specific RF heating power was calculated as 30 W/kg from the results’ extrapolation. When processed for 48 h under optimal conditions (30 W/kg specific RF heating power, −20°C cooling air), the tenderization rate and the increased rates of free amino acids based on the weight before RF‐T of beef reached over 20% and 1.5‐fold with 5.22 log CFU/g aerobic bacteria, which was lesser than the Korean regulation value of 6.7 log CFU/g (5 × 106 CFU/g). Therefore, RF‐T could be proposed as a promising high‐temperature tenderization method with lowered risk of microbial spoilage.Practical ApplicationWe showed that lowering the chamber temperature during RF‐T was effective in surface drying and inhibiting aerobic bacteria. RF‐T for 24–48 h with 30 W/kg specific RF heating power had an aging‐like effect given tenderization and increase in FAAs. Moreover, by providing the matching circuit and impedance during RF‐T, this method could be industrially reproducible.
Exploring readiness for discharge, quality of discharge teaching, and fear of disease progression in lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: A correlation analysis
Authors: Wang Yan , Li Jinping , Zhai Minfeng , Zhao Yang , Li Qiuyue 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBackgroundTo explore the correlation between the current status of discharge preparation, quality of discharge teaching, and fear of disease progression among patients with lung cancer undergoing chemotherapy to provide a basis for improving patients' level of preparation.MethodsIn this cross‐sectional study, convenience sampling was used to select 452 patients with lung cancer who received chemotherapy and were admitted to the Department of Medical Oncology of the Cancer Hospital, between February 2023 and April 2023. A general information questionnaire, discharge preparation scale, quality of discharge teaching scale, and fear of disease progression scale were used to conduct surveys 2 h before the patients were discharged.ResultsThe score for discharge preparation among lung cancer patients with chemotherapy was 99.11 ± 14.79 and the item score was 8.26 ± 1.23. The score for quality of discharge teaching was 193.23 ± 37.69, and that for fear of disease progression was 25.47 ± 8.92. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that sex, marital status, treatment period, quality of discharge teaching, and fear of disease progression influenced discharge readiness among patients with lung cancer receiving chemotherapy. Pearson's correlation analysis showed that the total quality of the discharge guidance score was positively correlated with the discharge readiness score (r = 0.288, p < 0.001). In contrast, the total fear of disease progression score was negatively correlated with the discharge preparation score (r = −0.252, p < 0.001).ConclusionDischarge readiness among patients with lung cancer receiving chemotherapy was relatively at the good level, and there was a significant correlation between readiness for discharge, discharge teaching and fear of disease progression in these patients. Therefore, it is necessary to provide effective discharge guidance and implement targeted intervention measures to further improve patient preparation, reduce the fear of disease progression, and promote patient ability of coping with the disease and overall satisfaction.
Age‐related anatomical variation and morphometric studies on the optic tectum in post‐hatch broiler chicken
Authors: Gautam Avnish Kumar , Ray Sanjay , Das Partha , Mandal Arun Kumar , Tudu Nirmal Kumar , Singh Dharmendra , Islam Md Mofijul , Rana Tanmoy 
Published: November 2023

AbstractIn this investigation the morphological and morphometrical features of the optic tectum in post‐hatch broiler chicken were studied macroscopically and microscopically. The present study was conducted on 70 day old broiler chicks which were reared up to 42 days. The whole experimental period of study was divided into seven groups (from group I to VII) at weekly interval (days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42). The optic lobes were paired and spherical to oval eminences located on the ventro‐lateral part of the midbrain in broiler chicken. There was significant increase in length and width of the optic lobes with the advancement of age. Histological analysis of optic tectum shows six basic layers from the external surface to internal one towards the optic ventricle. Different layers of optic tectum were identified as stratum opticum, stratum griseum superficial, stratum griseum central, stratum album central, stratum griseum periventriculare and stratum fibrosum periventriculare with several types of neurons. Among all six layers of the optic tectum the stratum griseum superficial layer showed very high degree of secondry differentiation and evolved into nine sub‐ layers in all age groups of broiler chickens. Three main cell types had been identified that is, small to medium sized stellate shaped neuron, pyramidal neuron and fusiform neuron, beside these multipolar neuron were also evident. The thickness of all layers of optic tectum significantly increases with the advancement of age of the birds. The optic ventricle was lined with a layer of cuboidal ependymal cells.
Diagnosis of cutaneous primary nocardiosis in patients with normal immune function by metagenomic next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Mou Yue , Liu Jiaqi , Ji Chaochao , Cheng Wenhao , Ren Hong , Mou Xudong , Hu Wenlong 
Published: November 2023

AbstractNocardia primarily affects immunocompromised individuals, and Infection with Nocardia is uncommon and primary cutaneous nocardiosis caused by percutaneous inoculation is even rarer. Primary cutaneous nocardiosis remains a diagnostic challenge and should be considered in the differential diagnosis for any superficial cutaneous infection that arises in patients with normal immune function. We report a case that was diagnosed with primary cutaneous Nocardia by metagenomic next‐generation sequencing technology.
Usefulness of risk scores and predictors of atrial fibrillation recurrence after elective electrical cardioversion
Authors: Águila‐Gordo Daniel , Jiménez‐Díaz Javier , Negreira‐Caamaño Martín , Martínez‐Del Rio Jorge , Ruiz‐Pastor Cristina , Sánchez Pérez Ignacio , Piqueras‐Flores Jesús 
Published: November 2023

AbstractIntroductionElectrical cardioversion (ECV) is a frequently used procedure for restoring sinus rhythm in atrial fibrillation (AF); however, the rate of recurrence is high. The identification of patients at high risk of recurrence could influence the decision‐making process. The present study evaluates the predictive value of risk scores in atrial fibrillation recurrence after elective electrical cardioversion.MethodsUnicentric, observational, and prospective study of adult patients who have undergone an elective ECV as rhythm control strategy between July 2017 and September 2022.ResultsFrom the 283 analyzed patients (mean age 63.95 ± 10.76212, 74.9% male); 99 had paroxysmal AF (35%) and 159 (59%) presented AF recurrence during a follow‐up of 6 months. In patients with post‐ECV AF recurrence, the period of time from diagnosis until the performance of the procedure was longer (393 ± 891 vs. 195 ± 527, p = .02). No paroxysmal AF (71.3% vs. 57.8%, p = .02) and LA dilatation with >40 mL/m2 (35.9% vs. 23.3%, p = .02) volumes were more frequent within these patients. AF recurrence was more frequent in patients who had previous ECV (HR = 1.32; 95% CI: 1.12–2.35; p = .01) and more than 1 shock to recover sinus rhythm (HR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.07–1.63; p = .01). The SLAC, ALARMEc, ATLAS, and CAAP‐AF scores were statistically significant, although with a moderate predictive capacity for post‐ECV recurrence.ConclusionsRisk scores analyzed showed a modest value predicting AF recurrence after ECV. Previous ECV, and greater difficulty in restoring SR were independent predictors of recurrence.
The effects of a music intervention on the autonomic nervous system during recovery from strenuous exercise
Authors: Niu Mingyang , Zhao Ruixue , Wang Jiameng 
Published: November 2023

AbstractObjectiveTo investigate the effect of music on heart rate recovery (HRR) and heart rate variability (HRV) after intense exertion.MethodsFive hundred male students enrolled at Yongin University, Korea, underwent a cycling test to assess aerobic capacity; 180 students with equal scores were selected for a music intervention, which was conducted after vigorous exercise. The 180 participants were randomized into three music groups and a control group; the participants in each music group listened to music at three different tempos: slow (lento) (n = 45), moderate (moderato) (n = 45), and fast (allegretto) (n = 45). The control group did not listen to music (n = 45). After the test, data on cardiac recovery and HRV were gathered and modeled.ResultsThe results revealed no significant variation in HRR and HRV indexes between the four cohorts (p > .05), and no significant differences were observed in the anaerobic power cycling indexes during strenuous exercise (p > .05). The music intervention had a significant impact on HR, low‐frequency power (LF), high‐frequency power (HF), normalized LF (LFnorm), normalized HF (HFnorm), and the LF/HF ratio during recovery (p < .05).ConclusionAfter rigorous activity, listening to allegretto music improved HRR and restored HRV equilibrium, which is critical to preventing and minimizing arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death.
Novel stent‐assisted ileal bypass is applied to avoid protective stoma and prevent anastomotic leakage for rectal cancer
Authors: Wen Ze‐Lin , Bai Lian , Zhou Xiong 
Published: November 2023

AbstractPurposeThis study aimed to investigate the safety and feasibility of a novel stent‐assisted ileal bypass for rectal cancer patients who received sphincter‐preserving surgery.MethodsPatients who were diagnosed with rectal cancer and received sphincter‐preserving surgery plus a novel stent‐assisted ileal bypass were respectively included from January 2022 to January 2023. Biofragmentable ileal stent with diaphragm sheet in the cavity was placed in the terminal ileum using absorbable sutures after anastomosis. At the proximal end of the stent, an intestinal diversion tube was placed in the prefabricated purse‐string, through which faeces were drained. The stent completely disintegrated in the body after 3–4 weeks, which protected the anastomosis after surgery and avoided protective stoma. Clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes were collected.ResultsEleven patients who successfully received surgery were included. There were seven (63.6%) males and four (36.4%) females. The tumour size was 3.2 ± 1.7 cm and the lower verge of tumour to anal verge was 6.8 ± 1.3 cm. As for surgical outcomes, operation time was 216.4 ± 54.1 min, blood loss was 43.6 ± 64.6 mL, time to first flatus via intestinal diversion tube was 3.2 ± 1.1 days, time to discharge stent was 22.8 ± 3.0 days, and postoperative hospital stay was 21.0 ± 5.4 days. Two patients suffered from postoperative complications including pneumonia and incision infection.ConclusionThis novel stent‐assisted ileal bypass is safe and feasible, it provides a new choice for rectal cancer patients to avoid protective stoma and secondary surgery.