1
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Regener P, Heffer N, Love SA, Petrini K, Pollick F. Differences in audiovisual temporal processing in autistic adults are specific to simultaneity judgments. Autism Res 2024; 17:1041-1052. [PMID: 38661256 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Research has shown that children on the autism spectrum and adults with high levels of autistic traits are less sensitive to audiovisual asynchrony compared to their neurotypical peers. However, this evidence has been limited to simultaneity judgments (SJ) which require participants to consider the timing of two cues together. Given evidence of partly divergent perceptual and neural mechanisms involved in making temporal order judgments (TOJ) and SJ, and given that SJ require a more global type of processing which may be impaired in autistic individuals, here we ask whether the observed differences in audiovisual temporal processing are task and stimulus specific. We examined the ability to detect audiovisual asynchrony in a group of 26 autistic adult males and a group of age and IQ-matched neurotypical males. Participants were presented with beep-flash, point-light drumming, and face-voice displays with varying degrees of asynchrony and asked to make SJ and TOJ. The results indicated that autistic participants were less able to detect audiovisual asynchrony compared to the control group, but this effect was specific to SJ and more complex social stimuli (e.g., face-voice) with stronger semantic correspondence between the cues, requiring a more global type of processing. This indicates that audiovisual temporal processing is not generally different in autistic individuals and that a similar level of performance could be achieved by using a more local type of processing, thus informing multisensory integration theory as well as multisensory training aimed to aid perceptual abilities in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Regener
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Naomi Heffer
- School of Sciences, Bath Spa University, Bath, UK
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Scott A Love
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - Karin Petrini
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
- The Centre for the Analysis of Motion, Entertainment Research and Applications (CAMERA), Bath, UK
| | - Frank Pollick
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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2
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Peveler WJ. Food for Thought: Optical Sensor Arrays and Machine Learning for the Food and Beverage Industry. ACS Sens 2024; 9:1656-1665. [PMID: 38598846 PMCID: PMC11059098 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.4c00252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Arrays of cross-reactive sensors, combined with statistical or machine learning analysis of their multivariate outputs, have enabled the holistic analysis of complex samples in biomedicine, environmental science, and consumer products. Comparisons are frequently made to the mammalian nose or tongue and this perspective examines the role of sensing arrays in analyzing food and beverages for quality, veracity, and safety. I focus on optical sensor arrays as low-cost, easy-to-measure tools for use in the field, on the factory floor, or even by the consumer. Novel materials and approaches are highlighted and challenges in the research field are discussed, including sample processing/handling and access to significant sample sets to train and test arrays to tackle real issues in the industry. Finally, I examine whether the comparison of sensing arrays to noses and tongues is helpful in an industry defined by human taste.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J Peveler
- School
of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University
of Glasgow, Glasgow, G128QQ U.K.
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3
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Clarke R, Zeng L, Atkinson BC, Kadodwala M, Thomson AR, Sutherland A. Fluorescent carbazole-derived α-amino acids: structural mimics of tryptophan. Chem Sci 2024; 15:5944-5949. [PMID: 38665535 PMCID: PMC11040653 DOI: 10.1039/d4sc01173b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Fluorescent tags are commonly used for imaging of proteins and peptides during biological events; however, the large size of dyes can disrupt protein structure and function, and typically require the use of a chemical spacer. Herein, we report the synthesis of a new class of fluorescent unnatural α-amino acid, containing carbazole side-chains designed to mimic l-tryptophan and thus, readily incorporated into peptides. The amino acids were constructed using a Negishi cross-coupling reaction as the key step and exhibited strong fluorescent emission, with high quantum yields in both organic solvents and water. Compatible with solid phase peptide synthesis, the carbazole amino acids were used to replace tryptophan in a β-hairpin model peptide and shown to be a close structural mimic with retention of conformation. They were also found to be effective fluorescent molecular reporters for biological events. Incorporation into a proline-rich ligand of the WW domain protein demonstrated that the fluorescent properties of a carbazole amino acid could be used to measure the protein-protein binding interaction of this important biological signalling process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Clarke
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow Joseph Black Building, University Avenue Glasgow G12 8QQ UK
| | - Liyao Zeng
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow Joseph Black Building, University Avenue Glasgow G12 8QQ UK
| | - Bethany C Atkinson
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow Joseph Black Building, University Avenue Glasgow G12 8QQ UK
| | - Malcolm Kadodwala
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow Joseph Black Building, University Avenue Glasgow G12 8QQ UK
| | - Andrew R Thomson
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow Joseph Black Building, University Avenue Glasgow G12 8QQ UK
| | - Andrew Sutherland
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow Joseph Black Building, University Avenue Glasgow G12 8QQ UK
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4
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Stewart R, Canaj AB, Liu S, Regincós Martí E, Celmina A, Nichol G, Cheng HP, Murrie M, Hill S. Engineering Clock Transitions in Molecular Lanthanide Complexes. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:11083-11094. [PMID: 38619978 PMCID: PMC11046435 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c09353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Molecular lanthanide (Ln) complexes are promising candidates for the development of next-generation quantum technologies. High-symmetry structures incorporating integer spin Ln ions can give rise to well-isolated crystal field quasi-doublet ground states, i.e., quantum two-level systems that may serve as the basis for magnetic qubits. Recent work has shown that symmetry lowering of the coordination environment around the Ln ion can produce an avoided crossing or clock transition within the ground doublet, leading to significantly enhanced coherence. Here, we employ single-crystal high-frequency electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and high-level ab initio calculations to carry out a detailed investigation of the nine-coordinate complexes, [HoIIIL1L2], where L1 = 1,4,7,10-tetrakis(2-pyridylmethyl)-1,4,7,10-tetraaza-cyclododecane and L2 = F- (1) or [MeCN]0 (2). The pseudo-4-fold symmetry imposed by the neutral organic ligand scaffold (L1) and the apical anionic fluoride ion generates a strong axial anisotropy with an mJ = ±8 ground-state quasi-doublet in 1, where mJ denotes the projection of the J = 8 spin-orbital moment onto the ∼C4 axis. Meanwhile, off-diagonal crystal field interactions give rise to a giant 116.4 ± 1.0 GHz clock transition within this doublet. We then demonstrate targeted crystal field engineering of the clock transition by replacing F- with neutral MeCN (2), resulting in an increase in the clock transition frequency by a factor of 2.2. The experimental results are in broad agreement with quantum chemical calculations. This tunability is highly desirable because decoherence caused by second-order sensitivity to magnetic noise scales inversely with the clock transition frequency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Stewart
- National
High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Florida
State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32310, United States
- Department
of Physics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32306, United States
- Center
for Molecular Magnetic Quantum Materials, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Angelos B. Canaj
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | - Shuanglong Liu
- Center
for Molecular Magnetic Quantum Materials, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
- Department
of Physics, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Emma Regincós Martí
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | - Anna Celmina
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | - Gary Nichol
- EastCHEM
School of Chemistry, The University of Edinburgh, David Brewster Road, Edinburgh EH9 3FJ, Scotland, U.K.
| | - Hai-Ping Cheng
- Center
for Molecular Magnetic Quantum Materials, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
- Department
of Physics, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Mark Murrie
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | - Stephen Hill
- National
High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Florida
State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32310, United States
- Department
of Physics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32306, United States
- Center
for Molecular Magnetic Quantum Materials, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
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5
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Prasad RR, Boyadjieva SS, Zhou G, Tan J, Firth FCN, Ling S, Huang Z, Cliffe MJ, Foster JA, Forgan RS. Modulated Self-Assembly of Catalytically Active Metal-Organic Nanosheets Containing Zr 6 Clusters and Dicarboxylate Ligands. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2024; 16:17812-17820. [PMID: 38557002 PMCID: PMC11009912 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c00604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Two-dimensional metal-organic nanosheets (MONs) have emerged as attractive alternatives to their three-dimensional metal-organic framework (MOF) counterparts for heterogeneous catalysis due to their greater external surface areas and higher accessibility of catalytically active sites. Zr MONs are particularly prized because of their chemical stability and high Lewis and Brønsted acidities of the Zr clusters. Herein, we show that careful control over modulated self-assembly and exfoliation conditions allows the isolation of the first example of a two-dimensional nanosheet wherein Zr6 clusters are linked by dicarboxylate ligands. The hxl topology MOF, termed GUF-14 (GUF = Glasgow University Framework), can be exfoliated into monolayer thickness hns topology MONs, and acid-induced removal of capping modulator units yields MONs with enhanced catalytic activity toward the formation of imines and the hydrolysis of an organophosphate nerve agent mimic. The discovery of GUF-14 serves as a valuable example of the undiscovered MOF/MON structural diversity extant in established metal-ligand systems that can be accessed by harnessing the power of modulated self-assembly protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram R.
R. Prasad
- Department
of Chemistry, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S3 7HF, U.K.
| | - Sophia S. Boyadjieva
- WestCHEM
School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Joseph Black Building, University
Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | - Guojun Zhou
- Department
of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm SE-10691, Sweden
| | - Jiangtian Tan
- Department
of Chemistry, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S3 7HF, U.K.
| | - Francesca C. N. Firth
- Yusuf
Hamied Department of Chemistry, University
of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K.
| | - Sanliang Ling
- Advanced
Materials Research Group, Faculty of Engineering, University of Nottingham, University
Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Zhehao Huang
- Department
of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm SE-10691, Sweden
| | - Matthew J. Cliffe
- School
of Chemistry, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Jonathan A. Foster
- Department
of Chemistry, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S3 7HF, U.K.
| | - Ross S. Forgan
- WestCHEM
School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Joseph Black Building, University
Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
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6
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Fenton S, Jacobs A, Bean CW, Adams CE, Elmer KR. Genomic underpinnings of head and body shape in Arctic charr ecomorph pairs. Mol Ecol 2024; 33:e17305. [PMID: 38421099 DOI: 10.1111/mec.17305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Across its Holarctic range, Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) populations have diverged into distinct trophic specialists across independent replicate lakes. The major aspect of divergence between ecomorphs is in head shape and body shape, which are ecomorphological traits reflecting niche use. However, whether the genomic underpinnings of these parallel divergences are consistent across replicates was unknown but key for resolving the substrate of parallel evolution. We investigated the genomic basis of head shape and body shape morphology across four benthivore-planktivore ecomorph pairs of Arctic charr in Scotland. Through genome-wide association analyses, we found genomic regions associated with head shape (89 SNPs) or body shape (180 SNPs) separately and 50 of these SNPs were strongly associated with both body and head shape morphology. For each trait separately, only a small number of SNPs were shared across all ecomorph pairs (3 SNPs for head shape and 10 SNPs for body shape). Signs of selection on the associated genomic regions varied across pairs, consistent with evolutionary demography differing considerably across lakes. Using a comprehensive database of salmonid QTLs newly augmented and mapped to a charr genome, we found several of the head- and body-shape-associated SNPs were within or near morphology QTLs from other salmonid species, reflecting a shared genetic basis for these phenotypes across species. Overall, our results demonstrate how parallel ecotype divergences can have both population-specific and deeply shared genomic underpinnings across replicates, influenced by differences in their environments and demographic histories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Fenton
- School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Arne Jacobs
- School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Colin W Bean
- School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- NatureScot, Clydebank, UK
| | - Colin E Adams
- School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Scottish Centre for Ecology and the Natural Environment, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kathryn R Elmer
- School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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7
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Abstract
Developmental plasticity -- the capacity for a genotype to develop into different phenotypes, depending on the environment - is typically viewed from the perspective of the resulting phenotype. Thus, if development is viewed as a trajectory towards a target, then developmental plasticity allows environmentally induced alterations to the target. However, there can also be variations in the trajectory. This is seen with compensatory responses, for instance where growth accelerates after an earlier period of food shortage, or where investment in sexual ornaments is maintained even when resources are limiting. If the compensation is complete, the adult phenotype can appear 'normal' (i.e. the different developmental trajectories converge on the same target). However, alternative trajectories to a common target can have multiple long-term consequences, including altered physiological programming and rates of senescence, possibly owing to trade-offs between allocating resources to the prioritized trait versus to body maintenance. This suggests that plasticity in developmental trajectories towards a common target leads to variation in the resilience and robustness of the adult body. This form of developmental plasticity is far more hidden than plasticity in final adult target, but it may be more common. Here, I discuss the causes, consequences and limitations of these different kinds of plasticity, with a special focus on whether they are likely to be adaptive. I emphasize the need to study plasticity in developmental trajectories, and conclude with suggestions for future research to tease apart the different forms of developmental plasticity and the factors that influence their evolution and expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil B. Metcalfe
- School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine, Graham Kerr Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
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8
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Gkikas K, Wan M, Svolos V, Nichols B, Hansen R, Russell RK, Gerasimidis K. YouTube as a Source of Information for Food, Diet-Related Items, and Advisory Comments for the Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2024; 30:347-356. [PMID: 37185900 PMCID: PMC10906362 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izad076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often use the Internet to seek information beyond that received from healthcare professionals. This study assessed the perceptions of YouTube presenters on the role of diet in the management of IBD. METHODS Videos discussing dietary aspects (food, diet-related items, and advisory comments [FODRIACs]) in the management of IBD were included. The perceptions of presenters toward each FODRIAC were labeled as positive, negative, or neutral/intermediate, and FODRIACs were classified according to their underlying role in the management of IBD (eg, symptom management, gut inflammation). Subgroup analysis was performed by type of video presenter (patients vs healthcare professionals), type of IBD (Crohn's disease vs ulcerative colitis), and reporting of scientific evidence supporting presenters' perceptions. RESULTS We identified 122 FODRIACs within 160 videos. Patient videos received a higher number of likes (median 85 [interquartile range, 35-156]) than healthcare professional videos (median 44 [interquartile range, 16-1440]) (P = .01). Scientific evidence was cited in 2 (3%) of 76 patient videos compared with 25 (35%) of 71 healthcare professional videos (P < .001). Positive perceptions were expressed about avocadoes, salmon, bananas, white bread, and rice, whereas negative perceptions were reported for processed, high-fat and high-sugar foods and carbonated drinks. Fewer negative perceptions were expressed in videos supported by scientific evidence than in videos that lacked evidence (scientific: 4 positive, 0 negative vs nonscientific: 7 positive, 20 negative; P = .01). CONCLUSIONS We have identified FODRIACs proposed as beneficial or detrimental in the management of IBD. The effect this information has on dietary practice as patients with IBD self-manage their condition needs further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Gkikas
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Mhairi Wan
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Vaios Svolos
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Nichols
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Hansen
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Richard K Russell
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Royal Hospital for Children and Young People Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Konstantinos Gerasimidis
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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9
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O'Rourke CJ, Salati M, Rae C, Carpino G, Leslie H, Pea A, Prete MG, Bonetti LR, Amato F, Montal R, Upstill-Goddard R, Nixon C, Sanchon-Sanchez P, Kunderfranco P, Sia D, Gaudio E, Overi D, Cascinu S, Hogdall D, Pugh S, Domingo E, Primrose JN, Bridgewater J, Spallanzani A, Gelsomino F, Llovet JM, Calvisi DF, Boulter L, Caputo F, Lleo A, Jamieson NB, Luppi G, Dominici M, Andersen JB, Braconi C. Molecular portraits of patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma who diverge as rapid progressors or long survivors on chemotherapy. Gut 2024; 73:496-508. [PMID: 37758326 PMCID: PMC10894814 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2023-330748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cytotoxic agents are the cornerstone of treatment for patients with advanced intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), despite heterogeneous benefit. We hypothesised that the pretreatment molecular profiles of diagnostic biopsies can predict patient benefit from chemotherapy and define molecular bases of innate chemoresistance. DESIGN We identified a cohort of advanced iCCA patients with comparable baseline characteristics who diverged as extreme outliers on chemotherapy (survival <6 m in rapid progressors, RP; survival >23 m in long survivors, LS). Diagnostic biopsies were characterised by digital pathology, then subjected to whole-transcriptome profiling of bulk and geospatially macrodissected tissue regions. Spatial transcriptomics of tumour-infiltrating myeloid cells was performed using targeted digital spatial profiling (GeoMx). Transcriptome signatures were evaluated in multiple cohorts of resected cancers. Signatures were also characterised using in vitro cell lines, in vivo mouse models and single cell RNA-sequencing data. RESULTS Pretreatment transcriptome profiles differentiated patients who would become RPs or LSs on chemotherapy. Biologically, this signature originated from altered tumour-myeloid dynamics, implicating tumour-induced immune tolerogenicity with poor response to chemotherapy. The central role of the liver microenviroment was confrmed by the association of the RPLS transcriptome signature with clinical outcome in iCCA but not extrahepatic CCA, and in liver metastasis from colorectal cancer, but not in the matched primary bowel tumours. CONCLUSIONS The RPLS signature could be a novel metric of chemotherapy outcome in iCCA. Further development and validation of this transcriptomic signature is warranted to develop precision chemotherapy strategies in these settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colm J O'Rourke
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Department of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Massimiliano Salati
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Modena, Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Colin Rae
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Guido Carpino
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italy
| | - Holly Leslie
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Antonio Pea
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Maria G Prete
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Luca R Bonetti
- Division of Pathology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Amato
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Robert Montal
- Cancer Biomarkers Research Group, Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova, Lleida, Spain
| | | | - Colin Nixon
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Cancer Research Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | - Daniela Sia
- Liver Cancer Translational Research Laboratory, BCLC Group, Liver Unit and Pathology Department, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Eugenio Gaudio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italy
| | - Diletta Overi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italy
| | - Stefano Cascinu
- Medical Oncology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Dan Hogdall
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Department of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Oncology, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Sian Pugh
- Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Enric Domingo
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - Andrea Spallanzani
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Fabio Gelsomino
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Josep M Llovet
- Translational Research in Hepatic Oncology, Liver Unit, IDIBAPS, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diego F Calvisi
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg Faculty of Medicine, Regensburg, Germany
- Medical, Surgical, and Clinical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Luke Boulter
- MRC HGU, The University of Edinburgh MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
- CRUK Scotland Cancer Centre, Glasgow-Edinburgh, UK
| | - Francesco Caputo
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Hepatology Unit, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Nigel B Jamieson
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- CRUK Scotland Cancer Centre, Glasgow-Edinburgh, UK
| | - Gabriele Luppi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Jesper B Andersen
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Department of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Chiara Braconi
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- CRUK Scotland Cancer Centre, Glasgow-Edinburgh, UK
- Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, Glasgow, UK
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10
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Karadzhov D, Lee J, Hatton G, White RG, Sharp L, Jalloh A, Langan Martin J. Identifying core global mental health professional competencies: A multi-sectoral perspective. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2024; 11:e24. [PMID: 38572254 PMCID: PMC10988164 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2024.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Concerned with sustainably alleviating mental distress and promoting the right to health worldwide, global mental health (GMH) is practised across various contexts spanning the humanitarian-development-peace nexus. The inherently intersectoral and multidisciplinary nature of GMH calls for competency frameworks and training programmes that embody diversity, decolonisation and multiprofessionalism. Existing competency frameworks have failed to capture the multi-sectoral, inter-professional nature of contemporary GMH practice. In response to these needs, a qualitative content analysis of relevant job advertisements was conducted to distil a comprehensive set of professional competencies in contemporary GMH practice. Approximately 200 distinct skills and competencies were extracted from 70 job advertisements and organised into four meta-dimensions: 'skills', 'sector', 'self' and 'subject'. The first known systematic attempt at a multi-sectoral GMH competency framework, it offers a springboard for exploring vital yet overlooked professional competencies such as resilience, self-reflection, political skills and entrepreneurialism. On this basis, recommendations for building a competent, agile and effective GMH workforce with diversified and future-proof skillsets are proposed. The framework can also inform inter-professional training and curriculum design, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at early-career professional development, particularly in low- and middle-income settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitar Karadzhov
- School of Health & Wellbeing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Joanne Lee
- UNICEF, Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - George Hatton
- School of Health & Wellbeing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Ross G. White
- School of Psychology, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Laura Sharp
- School of Health & Wellbeing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Abdul Jalloh
- School of Health & Wellbeing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Julie Langan Martin
- School of Health & Wellbeing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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11
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Suckling CJ. The allure of targets for novel drugs. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:472-484. [PMID: 38389887 PMCID: PMC10880906 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00621b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The challenges of bringing new medicines to patients have been extensively discussed and debated, including consideration of the contribution that academic laboratories can make. At the University of Strathclyde, drug discovery has been a continuing focal activity since the 1960s, and in the past 30 years, the author has led or contributed to many projects of different character and for diverse diseases. A feature common to these projects is the extension of concepts of molecular and biological targets in drug discovery research. In mechanistic terms, these have included compounds that are activators and not inhibitors, and in particular multitargeted compounds. With respect to relevance to disease, schizophrenia, pulmonary disfunction, autoimmune, and infectious disease are most relevant. These projects are discussed in the context of classical medicinal chemistry and more recent concepts in and approaches to drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin J Suckling
- Department of Pure & Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde 295 Cathedral Street Glasgow G1 1Xl Scotland UK
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12
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Fukuoka A, Wilson GJ, Pitmon E, Koumbas Foley L, Johnsson H, Pingen M, Graham GJ. Disruption of placental ACKR3 impairs growth and hematopoietic development of offspring. Development 2024; 151:dev202333. [PMID: 38300826 PMCID: PMC10911115 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
ACKR3 scavenges and degrades the stem cell recruiting chemokine CXCL12, which is essential for proper embryonic and, in particular, haematopoietic development. Here, we demonstrate strong expression of ACKR3 on trophoblasts. Using a maternally administered pharmacological blocker and Cre-mediated genetic approaches, we demonstrate that trophoblast ACKR3 is essential for preventing movement of CXCL12 from the mother to the embryo, with elevated plasma CXCL12 levels being detected in embryos from ACKR3-blocker-treated mothers. Mice born to mothers treated with the blocker are lighter and shorter than those born to vehicle-treated mothers and, in addition, display profound anaemia associated with a markedly reduced bone marrow haematopoietic stem cell population. Importantly, although the haematopoietic abnormalities are corrected as mice age, our studies reveal a postnatal window during which offspring of ACKR3-blocker-treated mice are unable to mount effective inflammatory responses to inflammatory/infectious stimuli. Overall, these data demonstrate that ACKR3 is essential for preventing CXCL12 transfer from mother to embryo and for ensuring properly regulated CXCL12 control over the development of the haematopoietic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayumi Fukuoka
- Chemokine Research Group, School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Gillian J. Wilson
- Chemokine Research Group, School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Elise Pitmon
- Chemokine Research Group, School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Lily Koumbas Foley
- Chemokine Research Group, School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Hanna Johnsson
- Chemokine Research Group, School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Marieke Pingen
- Chemokine Research Group, School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Gerard J. Graham
- Chemokine Research Group, School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
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13
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Manyara AM, Mwaniki E, Gill JMR, Gray CM. Perceptions of diabetes risk and prevention in Nairobi, Kenya: A qualitative and theory of change development study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297779. [PMID: 38349938 PMCID: PMC10863861 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes is increasing in Kenya, especially in urban settings, and prevention interventions based on local evidence and context are urgently needed. Therefore, this study aimed to explore diabetes risk and co-create a diabetes prevention theory of change in two socioeconomically distinct communities to inform future diabetes prevention interventions. METHODS In-depth interviews were conducted with middle-aged residents in two communities in Nairobi (one low-income (n = 15), one middle-income (n = 14)), and thematically analysed. The theory of change for diabetes prevention was informed by analysis of the in-depth interviews and the Behaviour Change Wheel framework, and reviewed by a sub-set (n = 13) of interviewees. RESULTS The key factors that influenced diabetes preventive practices in both communities included knowledge and skills for diabetes prevention, understanding of the benefits/consequences of (un)healthy lifestyle, social influences (e.g., upbringing, societal perceptions), and environmental contexts (e.g., access to (un)healthy foods and physical activity facilities). The proposed strategies for diabetes prevention included: increasing knowledge and understanding about diabetes risk and preventive measures particularly in the low-income community; supporting lifestyle modification (e.g., upskilling, goal setting, action planning) in both communities; identifying people at high risk of diabetes through screening in both communities; and creating social and physical environments for lifestyle modification (e.g., positive social influences on healthy living, access to healthy foods and physical activity infrastructure) particularly in the low-income community. Residents from both communities agreed that the strategies were broadly feasible for diabetes prevention but proposed the addition of door-to-door campaigns and community theatre for health education. However, residents from the low-income community were concerned about the lack of government prioritisation for implementing population-level interventions, e.g., improving access to healthy foods and physical activity facilities/infrastructure. CONCLUSION Diabetes prevention initiatives in Kenya should involve multicomponent interventions for lifestyle modification including increasing education and upskilling at individual level; promoting social and physical environments that support healthy living at population level; and are particularly needed in low-income communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Muchai Manyara
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Department of Health Systems Management and Public Health, Technical University of Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
- Global Health and Ageing Research Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Mwaniki
- Department of Health Systems Management and Public Health, Technical University of Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jason M. R. Gill
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Cindy M. Gray
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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14
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Dodds AC, Sansom HG, Magennis SW, Sutherland A. Synthesis of Thiazoloindole α-Amino Acids: Chromophores Amenable to One- and Two-Photon Induced Fluorescence. Org Lett 2023; 25:8942-8946. [PMID: 38055619 PMCID: PMC10729019 DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.3c03851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Thiazoloindole α-amino acids have been synthesized in four steps from tryptophan using a dual-catalytic thiolation reaction and a copper-mediated intramolecular N-arylation process. Late-stage diversification of the thiazoloindole core with electron-deficient aryl substituents produced chromophores that on one-photon excitation displayed blue-green emission, mega-Stokes shifts, and high quantum yields. The thiazoloindole amino acids could also be excited via two-photon absorption in the near-infrared, demonstrating their potential for biomedical imaging applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy C. Dodds
- School of Chemistry, The Joseph Black
Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Henry G. Sansom
- School of Chemistry, The Joseph Black
Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Steven W. Magennis
- School of Chemistry, The Joseph Black
Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Sutherland
- School of Chemistry, The Joseph Black
Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
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15
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Timpson K, McCartney G, Walsh D, Chabanis B. What is missing from how we measure and understand the experience of poverty and deprivation in population health analyses? Eur J Public Health 2023; 33:974-980. [PMID: 37862435 PMCID: PMC10710332 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckad174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Explaining why some populations are healthier than others is a core task of epidemiology. Socioeconomic position (SEP), encompassing a broad range of exposures relating to economic circumstances, social class and deprivation, is an important explanation, but lacks a comprehensive framework for understanding the range of relevant exposures it encompasses. METHODS We reviewed existing literature on experiential accounts of poverty through database searching and the identification of relevant material by experts. We mapped relevant concepts into a complex systems diagram. We developed this diagram through a process of consultation with academic experts and experts with direct experience of poverty. Finally, we categorized concepts on the basis of whether they have previously been measured, their importance to the causal flow of the diagram, and their importance to those consulted, creating a list of priorities for future measurement. RESULTS There are a great many aspects of SEP which are not frequently measured or used in epidemiological research and, for some of these, work is needed to better conceptualize and develop measures. Potentially important missing aspects include stigma, social class processes, access to education, sense of lost potential, neighbourhoods, fairness and justice, emotional labour, masking poverty, being (in)visible, costs, and experiences of power. CONCLUSIONS Analyses seeking to understand the extent to which SEP exposures explain differences in the health of populations are likely to benefit from a comprehensive understanding of the range and inter-relationships between different aspects of SEP. More research to better conceptualize and measure these aspects is now needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gerry McCartney
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - David Walsh
- Glasgow Centre for Population Health, Glasgow, UK
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16
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Qureshi S, Gregory DH, Tahir AA, Ahmed S. From doping to composites: zirconia (ZrO 2) modified hematite photoanodes for water splitting. RSC Adv 2023; 13:34798-34807. [PMID: 38035232 PMCID: PMC10685335 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra05348b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Herein, a ZrO2 added α-Fe2O3 photoanode that can split water at low applied potential is reported. First, the pristine hematite α-Fe2O3 photoanode was synthesized using an aerosol-assisted chemical vapour deposition (AACVD) method followed by modification with various amounts of ZrO2 (2 to 40%) in the form of thin films on conducting glass substrate. The XRD, Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses confirmed the presence of the monoclinic phase of ZrO2 in the composites with multifaceted particles of compact morphology. The optical analysis showed an increase in the absorbance and variation in band gap of the composites ascribed to the heterogeneity of the material. The photoelectrochemical studies gave a photocurrent density of 1.23 mA cm-2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE for the pristine hematite and remarkably higher value of 3.06 mA cm-2 for the optimized amount of ZrO2 in the modified α-Fe2O3 photoanode. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest photocurrent reported for a ZrO2 containing photoanode. The optimized composite electrode produced nine times more oxygen than that produced by pristine hematite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saima Qureshi
- Department of Chemistry, Quaid-i-Azam University 45320 Islamabad Pakistan
- West CHEM, School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow Glasgow G12 8QQ UK
| | - Duncan H Gregory
- West CHEM, School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow Glasgow G12 8QQ UK
| | - Asif Ali Tahir
- Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI), University of Exeter Penryn Campus TR10 9FE UK
| | - Safeer Ahmed
- Department of Chemistry, Quaid-i-Azam University 45320 Islamabad Pakistan
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17
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McGuire K, He S, Gracie J, Bryson C, Zheng D, Clark AW, Koehnke J, France DJ, Nau WM, Lee TC, Peveler WJ. Supramolecular Click Chemistry for Surface Modification of Quantum Dots Mediated by Cucurbit[7]uril. ACS Nano 2023; 17:21585-21594. [PMID: 37922402 PMCID: PMC10655248 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c06601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2023]
Abstract
Cucurbiturils (CBs), barrel-shaped macrocyclic molecules, are capable of self-assembling at the surface of nanomaterials in their native state, via their carbonyl-ringed portals. However, the symmetrical two-portal structure typically leads to aggregated nanomaterials. We demonstrate that fluorescent quantum dot (QD) aggregates linked with CBs can be broken-up, retaining CBs adsorbed at their surface, via inclusion of guests in the CB cavity. Simultaneously, the QD surface is modified by a functional tail on the guest, thus the high affinity host-guest binding (logKa > 9) enables a non-covalent, click-like modification of the nanoparticles in aqueous solution. We achieved excellent modification efficiency in several functional QD conjugates as protein labels. Inclusion of weaker-binding guests (logKa = 4-6) enables subsequent displacement with stronger binders, realising modular switchable surface chemistries. Our general "hook-and-eye" approach to host-guest chemistry at nanomaterial interfaces will lead to divergent routes for nano-architectures with rich functionalities for theranostics and photonics in aqueous systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie McGuire
- School
of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University
of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, United
Kingdom
| | - Suhang He
- School
of Science, Constructor University, Campus Ring 1, 28759 Bremen, Germany
| | - Jennifer Gracie
- School
of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University
of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, United
Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Bryson
- School
of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University
of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, United
Kingdom
| | - Dazhong Zheng
- School
of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University
of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, United
Kingdom
| | - Alasdair W. Clark
- James
Watt School of Engineering, Advanced Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G11 6EW, United
Kingdom
| | - Jesko Koehnke
- School
of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University
of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, United
Kingdom
- Institut
für Lebensmittelchemie, Leibniz Universität
Hannover, Callinstr 5, 30167 Hannover, Germany
| | - David J. France
- School
of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University
of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, United
Kingdom
| | - Werner M. Nau
- School
of Science, Constructor University, Campus Ring 1, 28759 Bremen, Germany
| | - Tung-Chun Lee
- Institute
for Materials Discovery, University College
London, London, WC1H 0AJ, United Kingdom
- Department
of Chemistry, University College London, London, WC1H 0AJ, United Kingdom
| | - William J. Peveler
- School
of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University
of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, United
Kingdom
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18
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Girasol MJ, Briggs EM, Marques CA, Batista JM, Beraldi D, Burchmore R, Lemgruber L, McCulloch R. Immunoprecipitation of RNA-DNA hybrid interacting proteins in Trypanosoma brucei reveals conserved and novel activities, including in the control of surface antigen expression needed for immune evasion by antigenic variation. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:11123-11141. [PMID: 37843098 PMCID: PMC10639054 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA-DNA hybrids are epigenetic features of genomes that provide a diverse and growing range of activities. Understanding of these functions has been informed by characterising the proteins that interact with the hybrids, but all such analyses have so far focused on mammals, meaning it is unclear if a similar spectrum of RNA-DNA hybrid interactors is found in other eukaryotes. The African trypanosome is a single-cell eukaryotic parasite of the Discoba grouping and displays substantial divergence in several aspects of core biology from its mammalian host. Here, we show that DNA-RNA hybrid immunoprecipitation coupled with mass spectrometry recovers 602 putative interactors in T. brucei mammal- and insect-infective cells, some providing activities also found in mammals and some lineage-specific. We demonstrate that loss of three factors, two putative helicases and a RAD51 paralogue, alters T. brucei nuclear RNA-DNA hybrid and DNA damage levels. Moreover, loss of each factor affects the operation of the parasite immune survival mechanism of antigenic variation. Thus, our work reveals the broad range of activities contributed by RNA-DNA hybrids to T. brucei biology, including new functions in host immune evasion as well as activities likely fundamental to eukaryotic genome function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Girasol
- University of Glasgow, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, School of Infection and Immunity, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Glasgow, UK
- University of the Philippines Manila, College of Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Emma M Briggs
- University of Glasgow, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, School of Infection and Immunity, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Glasgow, UK
- University of Edinburgh, Institute for Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Catarina A Marques
- University of Glasgow, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, School of Infection and Immunity, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Glasgow, UK
| | - José M Batista
- University of Glasgow, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, School of Infection and Immunity, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Glasgow, UK
| | - Dario Beraldi
- University of Glasgow, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, School of Infection and Immunity, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Glasgow, UK
| | - Richard Burchmore
- University of Glasgow, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, School of Infection and Immunity, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Glasgow, UK
| | - Leandro Lemgruber
- University of Glasgow, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, School of Infection and Immunity, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Glasgow, UK
| | - Richard McCulloch
- University of Glasgow, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, School of Infection and Immunity, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Glasgow, UK
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19
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Jing P, Stevenson S, Lu H, Ren P, Abrahams I, Gregory DH. Pillared Vanadium Molybdenum Disulfide Nanosheets: Toward High-Performance Cathodes for Magnesium-Ion Batteries. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2023; 15:51036-51049. [PMID: 37874903 PMCID: PMC10636724 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c10287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
If magnesium-ion batteries (MIBs) are to be seriously considered for next-generation energy storage, then a number of major obstacles need to be overcome. The lack of reversible cathode materials with sufficient capacity and cycle life is one of these challenges. Here, we report a new MIB cathode constructed of vertically stacked vanadium molybdenum sulfide (VMS) nanosheets toward addressing this challenge. The integration of vanadium within molybdenum sulfide nanostructures acts so as to improve the total conductivity, enhancing charge transfer, and to produce abundant lattice defects, improving both the accommodation and transport of Mg2+. Additionally, electrolyte additive-induced interlayer expansion provides a means to admit Mg2+ cations into the electrode structure and thus enhance their diffusion. The VMS nanosheets are capable of exhibiting capacities of 211.3 and 128.2 mA h g-1 at current densities of 100 and 1000 mA g-1, respectively. The VMS nanosheets also demonstrate long-term cycling stability, retaining 82.7% of the maximum capacity after 500 cycles at a current density of 1000 mA h g-1. These results suggest that VMS nanosheets could be promising candidates for high-performance cathodes in MIBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengcheng Jing
- WestCHEM,
School of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | - Siobhan Stevenson
- WestCHEM,
School of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | - Huimin Lu
- School
of Material Science and Engineering, Beihang
University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Peng Ren
- Department
of Chemistry, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, U.K.
| | - Isaac Abrahams
- Department
of Chemistry, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, U.K.
| | - Duncan H. Gregory
- WestCHEM,
School of Chemistry, Joseph Black Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
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20
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Malcolm D, Vilà-Nadal L. Computational Study into the Effects of Countercations on the [P 8W 48O 184] 40- Polyoxometalate Wheel. ACS Org Inorg Au 2023; 3:274-282. [PMID: 37810411 PMCID: PMC10557121 DOI: 10.1021/acsorginorgau.3c00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Porous metal oxide materials have been obtained from a ring-shaped macrocyclic polyoxometalate (POM) structural building unit, [P8W48O184]40-. This is a tungsten oxide building block with an integrated "pore" of 1 nm in diameter, which, when connected with transition metal linkers, can assemble frameworks across a range of dimensions and which are generally referred to as POMzites. Our investigation proposes to gain a better understanding into the basic chemistry of this POM, specifically local electron densities and locations of countercations within and without the aforementioned pore. Through a rigorous benchmarking process, we discovered that 8 potassium cations, located within the pore, provided us with the most accurate model in terms of mimicking empirical properties to a sufficient degree of accuracy while also requiring a relatively small number of computer cores and hours to successfully complete a calculation. Additionally, we analyzed two other similar POMs from the literature, [As8W48O184]40- and [Se8W48O176]32-, in the hopes of determining whether they could be similarly incorporated into a POMzite network; given their close semblance in terms of local electron densities and interaction with potassium cations, we judge these POMs to be theoretically suitable as POMzite building blocks. Finally, we experimented with substituting different cations into the [P8W48O184]40- pore to observe the effect on pore dimensions and overall reactivity; we observed that the monocationic structures, particularly the Li8[P8W48O184]32- framework, yielded the least polarized structures. This correlates with the literature, validating our methodology for determining general POM characteristics and properties moving forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Malcolm
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Laia Vilà-Nadal
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
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21
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Dornan AJ, Halberg KV, Beuter LK, Davies SA, Dow JAT. Compromised junctional integrity phenocopies age-dependent renal dysfunction in Drosophila Snakeskin mutants. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs261118. [PMID: 37694602 PMCID: PMC10565245 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Transporting epithelia provide a protective barrier against pathogenic insults while allowing the controlled exchange of ions, solutes and water with the external environment. In invertebrates, these functions depend on formation and maintenance of 'tight' septate junctions (SJs). However, the mechanism by which SJs affect transport competence and tissue homeostasis, and how these are modulated by ageing, remain incompletely understood. Here, we demonstrate that the Drosophila renal (Malpighian) tubules undergo an age-dependent decline in secretory capacity, which correlates with mislocalisation of SJ proteins and progressive degeneration in cellular morphology and tissue homeostasis. Acute loss of the SJ protein Snakeskin in adult tubules induced progressive changes in cellular and tissue architecture, including altered expression and localisation of junctional proteins with concomitant loss of cell polarity and barrier integrity, demonstrating that compromised junctional integrity is sufficient to replicate these ageing-related phenotypes. Taken together, our work demonstrates a crucial link between epithelial barrier integrity, tubule transport competence, renal homeostasis and organismal viability, as well as providing novel insights into the mechanisms underpinning ageing and renal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J. Dornan
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Kenneth V. Halberg
- Section for Cell and Neurobiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 15, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Liesa-Kristin Beuter
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
- Department of Animal Ecology and Systematics, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen D-35392, Germany
| | - Shireen-Anne Davies
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Julian A. T. Dow
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
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22
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Songsri S, Harkiss AH, Sutherland A. Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of Charge-Transfer-Based Pyrimidine-Derived α-Amino Acids. J Org Chem 2023; 88:13214-13224. [PMID: 37621156 PMCID: PMC10507667 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.3c01437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
The four-step synthesis of fluorescent pyrimidine-derived α-amino acids from an l-aspartic acid derivative is described. The key synthetic steps involved preparation of ynone intermediates via the reaction of alkynyl lithium salts with a Weinreb amide, followed by an ytterbium-catalyzed heterocyclization reaction with amidines. Variation of substituents at the C2- and C4-position of the pyrimidine ring allowed tuning of the photoluminescent properties of the α-amino acids. This revealed that a combination of highly conjugated or electron-rich aryl substituents with the π-deficient pyrimidine motif resulted in fluorophores with the highest quantum yields and overall brightness. Further analysis of the most fluorogenic α-amino acid demonstrated solvatochromism and sensitivity to pH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sineenard Songsri
- School of Chemistry, The Joseph Black Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander H. Harkiss
- School of Chemistry, The Joseph Black Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Sutherland
- School of Chemistry, The Joseph Black Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
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23
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Hill MJ, Fuentes-Caparrós AM, Adams DJ. Effect of Imposing Spatial Constraints on Low Molecular Weight Gels. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:4253-4262. [PMID: 37595056 PMCID: PMC10498449 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
We outline the effect of imposing spatial constraints during gelation on hydrogels formed by dipeptide-based low molecular weight gelators. The gels were formed via either a solvent switch or a change in pH and formed in different sized vessels to produce gels of different thickness while maintaining the same volume. The different methods of gelation led to gels with different underlying microstructure. Confocal microscopy was used to visualize the resulting microstructures, while the corresponding mechanical properties were probed via cavitation rheology. We show that solvent-switch-triggered gels are sensitive to imposed spatial constraints, in both altered microstructure and mechanical properties, while their pH-triggered equivalents are not. These results are significant because it is often necessary to form gels of different thicknesses for different analytical techniques. Also, gels of different thicknesses are utilized between various applications of these materials. Our data show that it is important to consider the spatial constraints imposed in these situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max J.
S. Hill
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | | | - Dave J. Adams
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
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24
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Recknagel H, Harvey WT, Layton M, Elmer KR. Common lizard microhabitat selection varies by sex, parity mode, and colouration. BMC Ecol Evol 2023; 23:47. [PMID: 37667183 PMCID: PMC10478496 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-023-02158-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animals select and interact with their environment in various ways, including to ensure their physiology is at its optimal capacity, access to prey is possible, and predators can be avoided. Often conflicting, the balance of choices made may vary depending on an individual's life-history and condition. The common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) has egg-laying and live-bearing lineages and displays a variety of dorsal patterns and colouration. How colouration and reproductive mode affect habitat selection decisions on the landscape is not known. In this study, we first tested if co-occurring male and female viviparous and oviparous common lizards differ in their microhabitat selection. Second, we tested if the dorsal colouration of an individual lizard matched its basking site choice within the microhabitat where it was encountered, which could be related to camouflage and crypsis. RESULTS We found that site use differed from the habitat otherwise available, suggesting lizards actively choose the composition and structure of their microhabitat. Females were found in areas with more wood and less bare ground compared to males; we speculate that this may be for better camouflage and reducing predation risk during pregnancy, when females are less mobile. Microhabitat use also differed by parity mode: viviparous lizards were found in areas with more density of flowering plants, while oviparous lizards were found in areas that were wetter and had more moss. This may relate to differing habitat preferences of viviparous vs. oviparous for clutch lay sites. We found that an individual's dorsal colouration matched that of the substrate of its basking site. This could indicate that individuals may choose their basking site to optimise camouflage within microhabitat. Further, all individuals were found basking in areas close to cover, which we expect could be used to escape predation. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that common lizards may actively choose their microhabitat and basking site, balancing physiological requirements, escape response and camouflage as a tactic for predator avoidance. This varies for parity modes, sexes, and dorsal colourations, suggesting that individual optimisation strategies are influenced by inter-individual variation within populations as well as determined by evolutionary differences associated with life history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Recknagel
- School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK
- Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Biology, University of Ljubljana, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - William T Harvey
- School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK
- Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Megan Layton
- School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Kathryn R Elmer
- School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK.
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25
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Finney GE, Hargrave KE, Pingen M, Purnell T, Todd D, MacDonald F, Worrell JC, MacLeod MKL. Triphasic production of IFN γ by innate and adaptive lymphocytes following influenza A virus infection. Discov Immunol 2023; 2:kyad014. [PMID: 37842651 PMCID: PMC10568397 DOI: 10.1093/discim/kyad014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Interferon gamma (IFNγ) is a potent antiviral cytokine that can be produced by many innate and adaptive immune cells during infection. Currently, our understanding of which cells produce IFNγ and where they are located at different stages of an infection is limited. We have used reporter mice to investigate in vivo expression of Ifnγ mRNA in the lung and secondary lymphoid organs during and following influenza A virus (IAV) infection. We observed a triphasic production of Ifnγ expression. Unconventional T cells and innate lymphoid cells, particularly NK cells, were the dominant producers of early Ifnγ, while CD4 and CD8 T cells were the main producers by day 10 post-infection. Following viral clearance, some memory CD4 and CD8 T cells continued to express Ifnγ in the lungs and draining lymph node. Interestingly, Ifnγ production by lymph node natural killer (NK), NKT, and innate lymphoid type 1 cells also continued to be above naïve levels, suggesting memory-like phenotypes for these cells. Analysis of the localization of Ifnγ+ memory CD4 and CD8 T cells demonstrated that cytokine+ T cells were located near airways and in the lung parenchyma. Following a second IAV challenge, lung IAV-specific CD8 T cells rapidly increased their expression of Ifnγ while CD4 T cells in the draining lymph node increased their Ifnγ response. Together, these data suggest that Ifnγ production fluctuates based on cellular source and location, both of which could impact subsequent immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- George E Finney
- Centre for Immunobiology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kerrie E Hargrave
- Centre for Immunobiology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Marieke Pingen
- Centre for Immunobiology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Thomas Purnell
- Centre for Immunobiology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - David Todd
- Centre for Immunobiology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Freya MacDonald
- Centre for Immunobiology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Julie C Worrell
- Centre for Immunobiology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Megan K L MacLeod
- Centre for Immunobiology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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26
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Abstract
The synthesis and photoluminescent properties of novel α-amino acids are described in which the biaryl benzotriazinone-containing chromophores were found to display dual emission fluorescence via locally excited (LE) and twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) states. The intensity of each emission band could be controlled by the electronics and position of the substituents, and this led to the design of a 2-methoxyphenyl analogue that, due to twisting, displayed bright TICT fluorescence, solvatochromism, and pH sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rochelle McGrory
- School
of Chemistry, The Joseph Black Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United
Kingdom
| | - Danielle C. Morgan
- School
of Chemistry, Advanced Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G11 6EW, United
Kingdom
| | - Andrew G. Jamieson
- School
of Chemistry, Advanced Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G11 6EW, United
Kingdom
| | - Andrew Sutherland
- School
of Chemistry, The Joseph Black Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United
Kingdom
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27
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Thompson JA, González-Cabaleiro R, Vilà-Nadal L. Reducing Systematic Uncertainty in Computed Redox Potentials for Aqueous Transition-Metal-Substituted Polyoxotungstates. Inorg Chem 2023; 62:12260-12271. [PMID: 37489885 PMCID: PMC10410613 DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.3c01115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Polyoxometalates have attracted significant interest owing to their structural diversity, redox stability, and functionality at the nanoscale. In this work, density functional theory calculations have been employed to systematically study the accuracy of various exchange-correlation functionals in reproducing experimental redox potentials, U0Red in [PW11M(H2O)O39]q- M = Mn(III/II), Fe(III/II), Co(III/II), and Ru(III/II). U0Red calculations for [PW11M(H2O)O39]q- were calculated using a conductor-like screening model to neutralize the charge in the cluster. We explicitly located K+ counterions which induced positive shifting of potentials by > 500 mV. This approximation improved the reproduction of redox potentials for Kx[XW11M(H2O)O39]q-x M = Mn(III/II)/Co(III/II). However, uncertainties in U0Red for Kx[PW11M(H2O)O39]q-x M = Fe(III/II)/Ru(III/II) were observed because of the over-stabilization of the ion-pairs. Hybrid functionals exceeding 25% Hartree-Fock exchange are not recommended because of large uncertainties in ΔU0Red attributed to exaggerated proximity of the ion-pairs. Our results emphasize that understanding the nature of the electrode and electrolyte environment is essential to obtain a reasonable agreement between theoretical and experimental results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake A. Thompson
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | | | - Laia Vilà-Nadal
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
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28
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Dobson AJ, Voigt S, Kumpitsch L, Langer L, Voigt E, Ibrahim R, Dowling DK, Reinhardt K. Mitonuclear interactions shape both direct and parental effects of diet on fitness and involve a SNP in mitoribosomal 16s rRNA. PLoS Biol 2023; 21:e3002218. [PMID: 37603597 PMCID: PMC10441796 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutrition is a primary determinant of health, but responses to nutrition vary with genotype. Epistasis between mitochondrial and nuclear genomes may cause some of this variation, but which mitochondrial loci and nutrients participate in complex gene-by-gene-by-diet interactions? Furthermore, it remains unknown whether mitonuclear epistasis is involved only in the immediate responses to changes in diet, or whether mitonuclear genotype might modulate sensitivity to variation in parental nutrition, to shape intergenerational fitness responses. Here, in Drosophila melanogaster, we show that mitonuclear epistasis shapes fitness responses to variation in dietary lipids and amino acids. We also show that mitonuclear genotype modulates the parental effect of dietary lipid and amino acid variation on offspring fitness. Effect sizes for the interactions between diet, mitogenotype, and nucleogenotype were equal to or greater than the main effect of diet for some traits, suggesting that dietary impacts cannot be understood without first accounting for these interactions. Associating phenotype to mtDNA variation in a subset of populations implicated a C/T polymorphism in mt:lrRNA, which encodes the 16S rRNA of the mitochondrial ribosome. This association suggests that directionally different responses to dietary changes can result from variants on mtDNA that do not change protein coding sequence, dependent on epistatic interactions with variation in the nuclear genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J. Dobson
- School of Molecular Biosciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Applied Zoology, Faculty of Biology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Susanne Voigt
- Applied Zoology, Faculty of Biology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Luisa Kumpitsch
- Applied Zoology, Faculty of Biology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Lucas Langer
- Applied Zoology, Faculty of Biology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Emmely Voigt
- Applied Zoology, Faculty of Biology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Rita Ibrahim
- School of Molecular Biosciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Damian K. Dowling
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Klaus Reinhardt
- Applied Zoology, Faculty of Biology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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29
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Thom AJR, Turner GF, Davis ZH, Ward MR, Pakamorė I, Hobday CL, Allan DR, Warren MR, Leung WLW, Oswald IDH, Morris RE, Moggach SA, Ashbrook SE, Forgan RS. Pressure-induced postsynthetic cluster anion substitution in a MIL-53 topology scandium metal-organic framework. Chem Sci 2023; 14:7716-7724. [PMID: 37476711 PMCID: PMC10355111 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc00904a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Postsynthetic modification of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) has proven to be a hugely powerful tool to tune physical properties and introduce functionality, by exploiting reactive sites on both the MOF linkers and their inorganic secondary building units (SBUs), and so has facilitated a wide range of applications. Studies into the reactivity of MOF SBUs have focussed solely on removal of neutral coordinating solvents, or direct exchange of linkers such as carboxylates, despite the prevalence of ancillary charge-balancing oxide and hydroxide ligands found in many SBUs. Herein, we show that the μ2-OH ligands in the MIL-53 topology Sc MOF, GUF-1, are labile, and can be substituted for μ2-OCH3 units through reaction with pore-bound methanol molecules in a very rare example of pressure-induced postsynthetic modification. Using comprehensive solid-state NMR spectroscopic analysis, we show an order of magnitude increase in this cluster anion substitution process after exposing bulk samples suspended in methanol to a pressure of 0.8 GPa in a large volume press. Additionally, single crystals compressed in diamond anvil cells with methanol as the pressure-transmitting medium have enabled full structural characterisation of the process across a range of pressures, leading to a quantitative single-crystal to single-crystal conversion at 4.98 GPa. This unexpected SBU reactivity - in this case chemisorption of methanol - has implications across a range of MOF chemistry, from activation of small molecules for heterogeneous catalysis to chemical stability, and we expect cluster anion substitution to be developed into a highly convenient novel method for modifying the internal pore surface and chemistry of a range of porous materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J R Thom
- WestCHEM School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow Joseph Black Building, University Avenue Glasgow G12 8QQ UK
| | - Gemma F Turner
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley Perth Western Australia 6009 Australia
| | - Zachary H Davis
- EaStCHEM School of Chemistry and Centre of Magnetic Resonance, University of St Andrews St Andrews KY16 9ST UK
| | - Martin R Ward
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences (SIPBS), University of Strathclyde 161 Cathedral Street Glasgow G4 0RE UK
| | - Ignas Pakamorė
- WestCHEM School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow Joseph Black Building, University Avenue Glasgow G12 8QQ UK
| | - Claire L Hobday
- EaStCHEM School of Chemistry and Centre for Science at Extreme Conditions, The University of Edinburgh King's Buildings, David Brewster Road Edinburgh EH9 3FJ UK
| | - David R Allan
- Diamond Light Source Ltd, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus Didcot Oxfordshire OX11 0DE UK
| | - Mark R Warren
- Diamond Light Source Ltd, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus Didcot Oxfordshire OX11 0DE UK
| | - Wai L W Leung
- WestCHEM School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow Joseph Black Building, University Avenue Glasgow G12 8QQ UK
| | - Iain D H Oswald
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences (SIPBS), University of Strathclyde 161 Cathedral Street Glasgow G4 0RE UK
| | - Russell E Morris
- EaStCHEM School of Chemistry and Centre of Magnetic Resonance, University of St Andrews St Andrews KY16 9ST UK
| | - Stephen A Moggach
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley Perth Western Australia 6009 Australia
| | - Sharon E Ashbrook
- EaStCHEM School of Chemistry and Centre of Magnetic Resonance, University of St Andrews St Andrews KY16 9ST UK
| | - Ross S Forgan
- WestCHEM School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow Joseph Black Building, University Avenue Glasgow G12 8QQ UK
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30
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Sykes RA, Neves KB, Alves-Lopes R, Caputo I, Fallon K, Jamieson NB, Kamdar A, Legrini A, Leslie H, McIntosh A, McConnachie A, Morrow A, McFarlane RW, Mangion K, McAbney J, Montezano AC, Touyz RM, Wood C, Berry C. Vascular mechanisms of post-COVID-19 conditions: Rho-kinase is a novel target for therapy. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Pharmacother 2023; 9:371-386. [PMID: 37019821 PMCID: PMC10236521 DOI: 10.1093/ehjcvp/pvad025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In post-coronavirus disease-19 (post-COVID-19) conditions (long COVID), systemic vascular dysfunction is implicated, but the mechanisms are uncertain, and the treatment is imprecise. METHODS AND RESULTS Patients convalescing after hospitalization for COVID-19 and risk factor matched controls underwent multisystem phenotyping using blood biomarkers, cardiorenal and pulmonary imaging, and gluteal subcutaneous biopsy (NCT04403607). Small resistance arteries were isolated and examined using wire myography, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and spatial transcriptomics. Endothelium-independent (sodium nitroprusside) and -dependent (acetylcholine) vasorelaxation and vasoconstriction to the thromboxane A2 receptor agonist, U46619, and endothelin-1 (ET-1) in the presence or absence of a RhoA/Rho-kinase inhibitor (fasudil), were investigated. Thirty-seven patients, including 27 (mean age 57 years, 48% women, 41% cardiovascular disease) 3 months post-COVID-19 and 10 controls (mean age 57 years, 20% women, 30% cardiovascular disease), were included. Compared with control responses, U46619-induced constriction was increased (P = 0.002) and endothelium-independent vasorelaxation was reduced in arteries from COVID-19 patients (P < 0.001). This difference was abolished by fasudil. Histopathology revealed greater collagen abundance in COVID-19 arteries {Masson's trichrome (MT) 69.7% [95% confidence interval (CI): 67.8-71.7]; picrosirius red 68.6% [95% CI: 64.4-72.8]} vs. controls [MT 64.9% (95% CI: 59.4-70.3) (P = 0.028); picrosirius red 60.1% (95% CI: 55.4-64.8), (P = 0.029)]. Greater phosphorylated myosin light chain antibody-positive staining in vascular smooth muscle cells was observed in COVID-19 arteries (40.1%; 95% CI: 30.9-49.3) vs. controls (10.0%; 95% CI: 4.4-15.6) (P < 0.001). In proof-of-concept studies, gene pathways associated with extracellular matrix alteration, proteoglycan synthesis, and viral mRNA replication appeared to be upregulated. CONCLUSION Patients with post-COVID-19 conditions have enhanced vascular fibrosis and myosin light change phosphorylation. Rho-kinase activation represents a novel therapeutic target for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Sykes
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, UK
- West of Scotland Heart and Lung Centre, Golden Jubilee National Hospital, Glasgow, UK
| | - Karla B Neves
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, UK
- Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Rhéure Alves-Lopes
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Ilaria Caputo
- Università degli Studi di Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy
| | - Kirsty Fallon
- Clinical Research Facility, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde Health Board, Glasgow, UK
| | - Nigel B Jamieson
- Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre, School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Anna Kamdar
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Assya Legrini
- Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre, School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Holly Leslie
- Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre, School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Alasdair McIntosh
- Robertson Centre for Biostatistics, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Alex McConnachie
- Robertson Centre for Biostatistics, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Andrew Morrow
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, UK
- West of Scotland Heart and Lung Centre, Golden Jubilee National Hospital, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Kenneth Mangion
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board, Glasgow, UK
| | - John McAbney
- Institute of Biomedical and Life Sciences (FBLS), University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Augusto C Montezano
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, UK
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC), Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Rhian M Touyz
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, UK
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC), Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Colin Wood
- Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre, School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Colin Berry
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, UK
- West of Scotland Heart and Lung Centre, Golden Jubilee National Hospital, Glasgow, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board, Glasgow, UK
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31
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Scott H, Dong L, Stevenson A, MacDonald AI, Srinivasan S, Massimi P, Banks L, Martin PE, Johnstone SR, Graham SV. The human discs large protein 1 interacts with and maintains connexin 43 at the plasma membrane in keratinocytes. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs259984. [PMID: 37288673 PMCID: PMC10309592 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Gap junction channels, composed of connexins, allow direct cell-to-cell communication. Connexin 43 (Cx43; also known as GJA1) is widely expressed in tissues, including the epidermis. In a previous study of human papillomavirus-positive cervical epithelial tumour cells, we identified Cx43 as a binding partner of the human homologue of Drosophila Discs large (Dlg1; also known as SAP97). Dlg1 is a member of the membrane associated-guanylate kinase (MAGUK) scaffolding protein family, which is known to control cell shape and polarity. Here, we show that Cx43 also interacts with Dlg1 in uninfected keratinocytes in vitro and in keratinocytes, dermal cells and adipocytes in normal human epidermis in vivo. Depletion of Dlg1 in keratinocytes did not alter Cx43 transcription but was associated with a reduction in Cx43 protein levels. Reduced Dlg1 levels in keratinocytes resulted in a reduction in Cx43 at the plasma membrane with a concomitant reduction in gap junctional intercellular communication and relocation of Cx43 to the Golgi compartment. Our data suggest a key role for Dlg1 in maintaining Cx43 at the plasma membrane in keratinocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry Scott
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Li Dong
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Andrew Stevenson
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Alasdair I. MacDonald
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Sharmila Srinivasan
- Translation Research Platform for Veterinary Biologicals, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Paola Massimi
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy
| | - Lawrence Banks
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy
| | - Patricia E. Martin
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK
| | - Scott R. Johnstone
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Virginia Tech, Roanoke VA 24016, USA
| | - Sheila V. Graham
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
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32
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Aziz I, Noreen Z, Ijaz UZ, Gundogdu O, Hamid MH, Muhammad N, Khan A, Bokhari H. A prospective study on linking diarrheagenic E. coli with stunted childhood growth in relation to gut microbiome. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6802. [PMID: 37185286 PMCID: PMC10133260 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32491-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Stunted growth is an emerging global challenge affecting children under the age of 5 years in low- and middle-income countries. Despite such a high global prevalence of stunting, the mechanism of pathogenesis and the role of associated gut microbiota is poorly understood. The present study was designed to investigate the association of pathogenic strains of E. coli with the residential gut microbiota of stunted growth children. A total of 64 stool sample were collected from children aged ≤ 5 years, and were processed for isolation and molecular characterization of diarrheagenic E. coli. Selected stool samples (n = 39 including three normal controls) were then analysed for microbial community profiling using 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing. Furthermore, associations between changes in the microbiota in the presence of different E. coli strains was explored. Pathotyping of the isolated E. coli (n = 64) has shown that 39.68% belonged to one of the five pathotypes of E. coli whilst the remaining ones were non-typeable. Amongst the different pathotypes, EPEC was found to be the most prevalent (52%; n = 13), followed by EAEC (20%; n = 5), EIEC (12%; n = 3), EHEC (8%; n = 2) and ETEC 2 (8%; n = 2). Phylogrouping analysis has shown that majority of the strains belonged to B2 (28.12%). Microbial diversity is shown to be significant and varied when the samples are organized under the recovered phylogroups. Moreover, based on predictive metabolism, the colonization of these strains were found to be significantly associated with energy utilization pathways such as Denovoprine-2 and glyoxylate-by. Differential analysis has shown that Escherichia-Shigella and Enterococcus were altered for the children with stunted growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Israr Aziz
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Zobia Noreen
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Ozan Gundogdu
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Muhammad Haroon Hamid
- Department of Pediatrics/Department of Preventive Pediatrics, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Nazir Muhammad
- Department of Pediatrics/Department of Preventive Pediatrics, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Abdullah Khan
- Paediatric Unit, Saidu Teaching Hospitals, Swat, Saidu Sharif, Pakistan
| | - Habib Bokhari
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University, Islamabad, Pakistan.
- Department of Biosciences, Kohsar University, Murree, Pakistan.
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33
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Sandilands E, Freckmann EC, Cumming EM, Román-Fernández A, McGarry L, Anand J, Galbraith L, Mason S, Patel R, Nixon C, Cartwright J, Leung HY, Blyth K, Bryant DM. The small GTPase ARF3 controls invasion modality and metastasis by regulating N-cadherin levels. J Cell Biol 2023; 222:e202206115. [PMID: 36880595 PMCID: PMC9997661 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202206115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
ARF GTPases are central regulators of membrane trafficking that control local membrane identity and remodeling facilitating vesicle formation. Unraveling their function is complicated by the overlapping association of ARFs with guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs), GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs), and numerous interactors. Through a functional genomic screen of three-dimensional (3D) prostate cancer cell behavior, we explore the contribution of ARF GTPases, GEFs, GAPs, and interactors to collective invasion. This revealed that ARF3 GTPase regulates the modality of invasion, acting as a switch between leader cell-led chains of invasion or collective sheet movement. Functionally, the ability of ARF3 to control invasion modality is dependent on association and subsequent control of turnover of N-cadherin. In vivo, ARF3 levels acted as a rheostat for metastasis from intraprostatic tumor transplants and ARF3/N-cadherin expression can be used to identify prostate cancer patients with metastatic, poor-outcome disease. Our analysis defines a unique function for the ARF3 GTPase in controlling how cells collectively organize during invasion and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Sandilands
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- The CRUK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | - Eva C. Freckmann
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- The CRUK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | - Erin M. Cumming
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- The CRUK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | - Alvaro Román-Fernández
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- The CRUK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hing Y. Leung
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- The CRUK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | - Karen Blyth
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- The CRUK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK
| | - David M. Bryant
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- The CRUK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK
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34
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Robertson C, Smith K, McGowan A, Sammut T, Boyle JG. New approach to undergraduate quality improvement. Clin Teach 2023; 20:e13568. [PMID: 36859750 DOI: 10.1111/tct.13568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While quality improvement (QI) is an essential component to modern day clinical practice, some foundation doctors fail to engage. This is compounded by a lack of formalised undergraduate QI teaching. We trial an undergraduate active learning workshop and evaluate it using a concurrent triangulation mixed methods design. APPROACH We constructed a 2-hour interactive QI workshop utilising near-peer educators for third year undergraduate medical students. Our workshop demonstrated an exemplary project and a template featuring evidenced-based QI tools to grasp key concepts. Informal support was provided for student QI projects, undertaken in small peer groups. Utility was assessed using linked pre-and-post event questionnaires with Likert scales, free text thematic analysis and project completion rates. EVALUATION We recruited 74 students to attend our workshops delivered over 3 months. We achieved high event satisfaction and significant improvements on baseline confidence. Free text comments suggested students perceive QI as an important part of the undergraduate curriculum, described barriers to engagement and the value they place on project autonomy. The workshop eased student feelings of anxiety and intimidation regarding change ideas. Nine projects were completed with one winning a poster prize at a regional conference. IMPLICATIONS We demonstrate a popular resource light model that can be scaled up to a variety of centres. Targeting QI teaching at the undergraduate level may be instrumental in developing QI culture in health care systems and address barriers to postgraduate involvement. Our study furthers the understanding of undergraduate students' perspectives of QI and demand for further sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Callum Robertson
- University Hospital Crosshouse, Kilmarnock, Scotland
- University Hospital Ayr, Ayr, Scotland
- Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, Scotland
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, Wolfson Medical School Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Keenan Smith
- University Hospital Crosshouse, Kilmarnock, Scotland
| | | | | | - James G Boyle
- Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, Scotland
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, Wolfson Medical School Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
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35
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Schmidt T, Dabrowska A, Waldron JA, Hodge K, Koulouras G, Gabrielsen M, Munro J, Tack DC, Harris G, McGhee E, Scott D, Carlin L, Huang D, Le Quesne J, Zanivan S, Wilczynska A, Bushell M. eIF4A1-dependent mRNAs employ purine-rich 5'UTR sequences to activate localised eIF4A1-unwinding through eIF4A1-multimerisation to facilitate translation. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:1859-1879. [PMID: 36727461 PMCID: PMC9976904 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Altered eIF4A1 activity promotes translation of highly structured, eIF4A1-dependent oncogene mRNAs at root of oncogenic translational programmes. It remains unclear how these mRNAs recruit and activate eIF4A1 unwinding specifically to facilitate their preferential translation. Here, we show that single-stranded RNA sequence motifs specifically activate eIF4A1 unwinding allowing local RNA structural rearrangement and translation of eIF4A1-dependent mRNAs in cells. Our data demonstrate that eIF4A1-dependent mRNAs contain AG-rich motifs within their 5'UTR which specifically activate eIF4A1 unwinding of local RNA structure to facilitate translation. This mode of eIF4A1 regulation is used by mRNAs encoding components of mTORC-signalling and cell cycle progression, and renders these mRNAs particularly sensitive to eIF4A1-inhibition. Mechanistically, we show that binding of eIF4A1 to AG-rich sequences leads to multimerization of eIF4A1 with eIF4A1 subunits performing distinct enzymatic activities. Our structural data suggest that RNA-binding of multimeric eIF4A1 induces conformational changes in the RNA resulting in an optimal positioning of eIF4A1 proximal to the RNA duplex enabling efficient unwinding. Our data proposes a model in which AG-motifs in the 5'UTR of eIF4A1-dependent mRNAs specifically activate eIF4A1, enabling assembly of the helicase-competent multimeric eIF4A1 complex, and positioning these complexes proximal to stable localised RNA structure allowing ribosomal subunit scanning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Schmidt
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Adrianna Dabrowska
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Joseph A Waldron
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Kelly Hodge
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Grigorios Koulouras
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Mads Gabrielsen
- MVLS Structural Biology and Biophysical Characterisation Facility, University of Glasgow, University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - June Munro
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - David C Tack
- Spectrum Health Office of Research and Education, Spectrum Health System, 15 Michigan Street NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Gemma Harris
- Research Complex at Harwell, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Didcot OX11 0FA, UK
| | - Ewan McGhee
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - David Scott
- Research Complex at Harwell, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Didcot OX11 0FA, UK
- ISIS Spallation Neutron and Muon Source, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, DidcotOX11 0QX, UK
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Sutton Bonington LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Leo M Carlin
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Danny Huang
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - John Le Quesne
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Sara Zanivan
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Ania Wilczynska
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Martin Bushell
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
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36
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Papalazarou V, Drew J, Juin A, Spence HJ, Whitelaw J, Nixon C, Salmeron-Sanchez M, Machesky LM. Collagen VI expression is negatively mechanosensitive in pancreatic cancer cells and supports the metastatic niche. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:jcs259978. [PMID: 36546396 PMCID: PMC9845737 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a deadly and highly metastatic disease, although how metastatic lesions establish is not fully understood. A key feature of pancreatic tumours is extensive fibrosis and deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). While pancreatic cancer cells are programmed by stimuli derived from a stiff ECM, metastasis requires loss of attachment and adaptation to a softer microenvironment at distant sites. Growing evidence suggests that stiff ECM influences pancreatic cancer cell behaviour. Here, we argue that this influence is reversible and that pancreatic cancer cells can be reprogrammed upon sensing soft substrates. Using engineered polyacrylamide hydrogels with tuneable mechanical properties, we show that collagen VI is specifically upregulated in pancreatic cancer cells on soft substrates, due to a lack of integrin engagement. Furthermore, the expression of collagen VI is inversely correlated with mechanosensing and activity of YAP (also known as YAP1), which might be due to a direct or indirect effect on transcription of genes encoding collagen VI. Collagen VI supports migration in vitro and metastasis formation in vivo. Metastatic nodules formed by pancreatic cancer cells lacking Col6a1 display stromal cell-derived collagen VI deposition, suggesting that collagen VI derived from either cancer cells or the stroma is an essential component of the metastatic niche. This article has an associated First Person interview with Vasileios Papalazarou, joint first author of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Papalazarou
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- Centre for the Cellular Microenvironment, University of Glasgow,Glasgow G11 6EW, UK
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - James Drew
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Amelie Juin
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Heather J. Spence
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Jamie Whitelaw
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Colin Nixon
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | | | - Laura M. Machesky
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
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37
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da Rosa LC, Scales HE, Makhija S, Sutherland K, Benson RA, Brewer JM, Garside P. Revealing stromal and lymphoid sources of Col3a1-expression during inflammation using a novel reporter mouse. Discov Immunol 2022; 1:kyac008. [PMID: 38566907 PMCID: PMC10917174 DOI: 10.1093/discim/kyac008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
One of the earliest signs of dysregulation of the homeostatic process of fibrosis, associated with pathology in chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, is the overexpression of collagen type III (COL-3). Critically, there is still relatively little known regarding the identity of the cell types expressing the gene encoding COL-3 (Col3a1). Identifying and characterizing Col3a1-expressing cells during the development of fibrosis could reveal new targets for the diagnosis and treatment of fibrosis-related pathologies. As such, a reporter mouse expressing concomitantly Col3a1 and mKate-2, a fluorescent protein, was generated. Using models of footpad inflammation, we demonstrated its effectiveness as a tool to measure the expression of COL-3 during the repair process and provided an initial characterization of some of the stromal and immune cells responsible for Col3a1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa C da Rosa
- School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Hannah E Scales
- School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Sangeet Makhija
- School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Katie Sutherland
- School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Robert A Benson
- School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - James M Brewer
- School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Paul Garside
- School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
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38
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Felion C, Lopez-Gonzalez R, Sewell AL, Marquez R, Gauchotte-Lindsay C. BODIPY-Labeled Estrogens for Fluorescence Analysis of Environmental Microbial Degradation. ACS Omega 2022; 7:41284-41295. [PMID: 36406552 PMCID: PMC9670910 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c05002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Biodegradation of estrogen hormone micropollutants is a well-established approach toward their remediation. Fluorescently labeled substrates are used extensively for rapid, near-real-time analysis of biological processes and are a potential tool for studying biodegradation processes faster and more efficiently than conventional approaches. However, it is important to understand how the fluorescently tagged surrogates compare with the natural substrate in terms of chemical analysis and the intended application. We derivatized three natural estrogens with BODIPY fluorophores by azide-alkyne cycloaddition click reaction and developed an analytical workflow based on simple liquid-liquid extraction and HPLC-PDA analysis. The developed methods allow for concurrent analysis of both fluorescent and natural estrogens with comparable recovery, accuracy, and precision. We then evaluated the use of BODIPY-labeled estrogens as surrogate substrates for studying biodegradation using a model bacterium for estrogen metabolism. The developed analytical methods were successfully employed to compare the biological transformation of 17β-estradiol (E2), with and without the BODIPY fluorescent tag. Through measuring the complete degradation of E2 and the transformation of BODIPY-estradiol to BODIPY-estrone in the presence of a co-substrate, we found that BODIPY-labeled estrogens are biologically viable surrogates for investigating biodegradation in environmental bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celeste Felion
- James
Watt School of Engineering, University of
Glasgow, GlasgowG12 6EW, U.K.
| | - Ricardo Lopez-Gonzalez
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, GlasgowG12 8QQ, U.K.
- School
of Physical and Chemical Sciences, University
of Canterbury, Christchurch8140, New Zealand
| | - Alan L. Sewell
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, GlasgowG12 8QQ, U.K.
| | - Rodolfo Marquez
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, GlasgowG12 8QQ, U.K.
- School
of Physical and Chemical Sciences, University
of Canterbury, Christchurch8140, New Zealand
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39
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Gracie J, Zamberlan F, Andrews IB, Smith BO, Peveler WJ. Growth of Plasmonic Nanoparticles for Aging Cask-Matured Whisky. ACS Appl Nano Mater 2022; 5:15362-15368. [PMID: 36338330 PMCID: PMC9624259 DOI: 10.1021/acsanm.2c03406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The maturation of spirit in wooden casks is key to the production of whisky, a hugely popular and valuable product, with the transfer and reaction of molecules from the wooden cask with the alcoholic spirit imparting color and flavor. However, time in the cask adds significant cost to the final product, requiring expensive barrels and decades of careful storage. Thus, many producers are concerned with what "age" means in terms of the chemistry and flavor profiles of whisky. We demonstrate here a colorimetric test for spirit "agedness" based on the formation of gold nanoparticles (NPs) by whisky. Gold salts were reduced by barrel-aged spirit and produce colored gold NPs with distinct optical properties. Information from an extinction profile, such as peak position, growth rate, or profile shape, was analyzed, and our assay output was correlated with measurements of the whisky sample makeup, assays for key functional groups, and spiking experiments to explore the mechanism in more detail. We conclude that age is not just a number, that the chemical fingerprint of key flavor compounds is a useful marker for determining whisky "age", and that our simple reduction assay could assist in defining the aged character of a whisky and become a useful future tool on the warehouse floor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Gracie
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | | | - Iain B. Andrews
- The
Scotch Whisky Research Institute, Edinburgh EH14 4AP, U.K.
| | - Brian O. Smith
- School
of Molecular Biosciences, University of
Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
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40
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Demir Duman F, Monaco A, Foulkes R, Becer CR, Forgan RS. Glycopolymer-Functionalized MOF-808 Nanoparticles as a Cancer-Targeted Dual Drug Delivery System for Carboplatin and Floxuridine. ACS Appl Nano Mater 2022; 5:13862-13873. [PMID: 36338327 PMCID: PMC9623548 DOI: 10.1021/acsanm.2c01632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Codelivery of chemotherapeutics via nanomaterials has attracted much attention over the last decades due to improved drug delivery to tumor tissues, decreased systemic effects, and increased therapeutic efficacies. High porosities, large pore volumes and surface areas, and tunable structures have positioned metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as promising drug delivery systems (DDSs). In particular, nanoscale Zr-linked MOFs such as MOF-808 offer notable advantages for biomedical applications such as high porosity, good stability, and biocompatibility. In this study, we report efficient dual drug delivery of floxuridine (FUDR) and carboplatin (CARB) loaded in MOF-808 nanoparticles to cancer cells. The nanoparticles were further functionalized by a poly(acrylic acid-mannose acrylamide) (PAAMAM) glycopolymer coating to obtain a highly selective DDS in cancer cells and enhance the therapeutic efficacy of chemotherapy. While MOF-808 was found to enhance the individual therapeutic effects of FUDR and CARB toward cancerous cells, combining FUDR and CARB was seen to cause a synergistic effect, further enhancing the cytotoxicity of the free drugs. Enhancement of CARB loading and therefore cytotoxicity of the CARB-loaded MOFs could be induced through a modified activation protocol, while coating of MOF-808 with the PAAMAM glycopolymer increased the uptake of the nanoparticles in cancer cells used in the study and offered a particularly significant selective drug delivery with high cytotoxicity in HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. These results show how the enhancement of cytotoxicity is possible through both nanovector delivery and synergistic treatment, and that MOF-808 is a viable candidate for future drug delivery studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Demir Duman
- WestCHEM,
School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow,
University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | - Alessandra Monaco
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, CV4 7AL Coventry, U.K.
| | - Rachel Foulkes
- WestCHEM,
School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow,
University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
| | - C. Remzi Becer
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, CV4 7AL Coventry, U.K.
| | - Ross S. Forgan
- WestCHEM,
School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow,
University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, U.K.
- E-mail:
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41
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Fang W, Vellutini E, Perrella G, Kaiserli E. TANDEM ZINC-FINGER/PLUS3 regulates phytochrome B abundance and signaling to fine-tune hypocotyl growth. Plant Cell 2022; 34:4213-4231. [PMID: 35929801 PMCID: PMC9614508 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koac236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
TANDEM ZINC-FINGER/PLUS3 (TZP) is a transcriptional regulator that acts at the crossroads of light and photoperiodic signaling. Here, we unveil a role for TZP in fine-tuning hypocotyl elongation under red light and long-day conditions. We provide genetic evidence for a synergistic action between TZP and PHOTOPERIODIC CONTROL OF HYPOCOTYL 1 (PCH1) in regulating the protein abundance of PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTOR 4 (PIF4) and downstream gene expression in response to red light and long days (LDs). Furthermore, we show that TZP is a positive regulator of the red/far-red light receptor and thermosensor phytochrome B (phyB) by promoting phyB protein abundance, nuclear body formation, and signaling. Our data therefore assign a function to TZP in regulating two key red light signaling components, phyB and PIF4, but also uncover a new role for PCH1 in regulating hypocotyl elongation in LDs. Our findings provide a framework for the understanding of the mechanisms associated with the TZP signal integration network and their importance for optimizing plant growth and adaptation to a changing environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Fang
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Elisa Vellutini
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
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Finlay C, Patel S, Evans J. Assessing Psychosocial Distress in Cystic Fibrosis: Validation of the 'Distress in Cystic Fibrosis Scale'. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2022; 29:699-708. [PMID: 34586547 PMCID: PMC8479494 DOI: 10.1007/s10880-021-09825-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/30/2022]
Abstract
Experiences of anxiety and depression are common in adults with Cystic Fibrosis (AwCF) (e.g. Quittner in Thorax 69:1090-1097, 2014) and may impact on a wide range of important health-related behaviours, such as adherence to medication and timely attendance for medical review when experiencing pulmonary exacerbation. Common screening measures used in CF such as the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 may reflect an absence of anxiety or depression when clinically significant emotional difficulties are apparent on further assessment. This study preliminarily validated the previously developed Distress in Cystic Fibrosis Scale (DCFS) (Patel in Journal of Cystic Fibrosis 15:S26, 2016); a 23-item questionnaire to assess psychosocial distress in AwCF. Inpatient and outpatient participants with CF (N = 119) completed a battery of questionnaires, including the DCFS. PCA results supported a single component model. The DCFS showed high internal consistency and correlated significantly with measures of mood and quality of life. The DCFS shows promise as a screening tool to assess clinically significant psychosocial distress in an adult CF population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Finlay
- Acute Psychology, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow, UK.
- Pain Management Psychology, Victoria Infirmary, 55 Grange Road, Glasgow, G42 9LF, UK.
| | - Sejal Patel
- Acute Psychology, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Jonathan Evans
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Wu X, McEleney CA, Shi Z, González-Jiménez M, Macêdo R. Asymmetric Reflection Induced in Reciprocal Hyperbolic Materials. ACS Photonics 2022; 9:2774-2782. [PMID: 35996366 PMCID: PMC9389604 DOI: 10.1021/acsphotonics.2c00551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Reflection is one of the most fundamental properties of light propagation. The ability to engineer this property can be a powerful tool when constructing a variety of now ubiquitous optical and electronic devices, including one-way mirrors and antennas. Here, we show from both experimental and theoretical evidence that highly asymmetric reflection can be induced in reciprocal hyperbolic materials. This asymmetry stems from the asymmetric cross-polarization conversion between two linearly polarized waves, an intrinsic and more exotic property of hyperbolic media that is bereft of research. In addition to angle-controllable reflection, our findings suggest that optical devices could utilize the polarization of the incident beam, or even the polarization of the output wave, to engineer functionality; additionally, in hyperbolic slabs or films, the asymmetry can be tailored by controlling the thickness of the material. Such phenomena are key for directional-dependent optical and optoelectronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohu Wu
- Shandong
Institute of Advanced Technology, Jinan 250100, Shandong, China
| | - Cameron A. McEleney
- James
Watt School of Engineering, Electronics and Nanoscale Engineering
Division, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Zhangxing Shi
- Shandong
Institute of Advanced Technology, Jinan 250100, Shandong, China
| | | | - Rair Macêdo
- James
Watt School of Engineering, Electronics and Nanoscale Engineering
Division, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
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Tziotzi T, Mavromagoulos A, Murrie M, Dalgarno SJ, Evangelisti M, Brechin EK, Milios CJ. Constructing "Closed" and "Open" {Mn 8} Clusters. Cryst Growth Des 2022; 22:4935-4940. [PMID: 35971413 PMCID: PMC9374326 DOI: 10.1021/acs.cgd.2c00489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Use of the 1,3,5-tri(2-hydroxyethyl)-1,3,5-triazacyclohexane ligand, LH3, in manganese chemistry affords access to two structurally related {Mn8} clusters: a "closed" {MnIII 6MnII 2} puckered square wheel of formula [Mn8L2(LH)O3(OH)2(MeO)2Br(imH)(H2O)3](Br)3 (1; imH = imidazole) and an "open" {MnIII 8} rod of formula [MnΙΙΙ 8L2O4(aibH)2(aib)2(MeO)6(MeOH)2](NO3)2 (2, aibH = 2-amino-isobutyric acid). In each case the triaza ligands, L/LH, direct the formation of {Mn3} triangles with their N atoms preferentially bonding to the Jahn-Teller axes of the MnIII ions. Subsequent self-assembly is dependent on the anion of the Mn salt and the identity of the organic coligand employed-the terminally bonded imidazole and the chelating/bridging amino acid. The {Mn3} triangles fold up on themselves in 1, forming a wheel. However, the syn, syn-bridging carboxylates in 2 prevent this from happening, instead directing the formation of a linear rod. Magnetic susceptibility and magnetization measurements reveal competing ferro- and antiferromagnetic interactions in both complexes, the exchange being somewhat weaker in 1 due to the presence of MnII ions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomais
G. Tziotzi
- Department
of Chemistry, The University of Crete, Voutes, Herakleion 71003, Greece
| | | | - Mark Murrie
- School
of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, U.K.
| | - Scott J. Dalgarno
- Institute
of Chemical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Riccarton, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, Scotland, U.K.
| | - Marco Evangelisti
- Instituto
de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón, CSIC − Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain
| | - Euan K. Brechin
- EaStCHEM
School of Chemistry, The University of Edinburgh, David Brewster Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3FJ, Scotland, U.K.
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45
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Khudhur FWK, Macente A, MacDonald JM, Daly L. Image-Based Analysis of Weathered Slag for Calculation of Transport Properties and Passive Carbon Capture. Microsc Microanal 2022; 28:1-12. [PMID: 35781360 DOI: 10.1017/s1431927622000915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Weathering of silicate-rich industrial wastes such as slag can reduce emissions from the steelmaking industry. During slag weathering, different minerals spontaneously react with atmospheric CO2 to produce calcite. Here, we evaluate the CO2 uptake during slag weathering using image-based analysis. The analysis was applied to an X-ray computed tomography (XCT) dataset of a slag sample associated with the former Ravenscraig steelworks in Lanarkshire, Scotland. The element distribution of the sample was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), coupled with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Two advanced image segmentation methods, namely trainable WEKA segmentation in the Fiji distribution of ImageJ and watershed segmentation in Avizo ® 9.3.0, were used to segment the XCT images into matrix, pore space, calcite, and other precipitates. Both methods yielded similar volume fractions of the segmented classes. However, WEKA segmentation performed better in segmenting smaller pores, while watershed segmentation was superior in overcoming the partial volume effect presented in the XCT data. We estimate that CO2 has been captured in the studied sample with an uptake between 20 and 17 kg CO2/1,000 kg slag for TWS and WS, respectively, through calcite precipitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal W K Khudhur
- School of Geographical and Earth Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Alice Macente
- School of Geographical and Earth Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XJ, UK
| | - John M MacDonald
- School of Geographical and Earth Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Luke Daly
- School of Geographical and Earth Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
- Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, University of Sydney, Sydney, 2006 NSW, Australia
- Department of Materials, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3PH, UK
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Baena G, Xia L, Waghmare S, Karnik R. SNARE SYP132 mediates divergent traffic of plasma membrane H+-ATPase AHA1 and antimicrobial PR1 during bacterial pathogenesis. Plant Physiol 2022; 189:1639-1661. [PMID: 35348763 PMCID: PMC9237740 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiac149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The vesicle trafficking SYNTAXIN OF PLANTS132 (SYP132) drives hormone-regulated endocytic traffic to suppress the density and function of plasma membrane (PM) H+-ATPases. In response to bacterial pathogens, it also promotes secretory traffic of antimicrobial pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins. These seemingly opposite actions of SYP132 raise questions about the mechanistic connections between the two, likely independent, membrane trafficking pathways intersecting plant growth and immunity. To study SYP132 and associated trafficking of PM H+-ATPase 1 (AHA1) and PATHOGENESIS-RELATED PROTEIN1 (PR1) during pathogenesis, we used the virulent Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 (Pst DC3000) bacteria for infection of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) plants. SYP132 overexpression suppressed bacterial infection in plants through the stomatal route. However, bacterial infection was enhanced when bacteria were infiltrated into leaf tissue to bypass stomatal defenses. Tracking time-dependent changes in native AHA1 and SYP132 abundance, cellular distribution, and function, we discovered that bacterial pathogen infection triggers AHA1 and SYP132 internalization from the plasma membrane. AHA1 bound to SYP132 through its regulatory SNARE Habc domain, and these interactions affected PM H+-ATPase traffic. Remarkably, using the Arabidopsis aha1 mutant, we discovered that AHA1 is essential for moderating SYP132 abundance and associated secretion of PR1 at the plasma membrane for pathogen defense. Thus, we show that during pathogenesis SYP132 coordinates AHA1 with opposing effects on the traffic of AHA1 and PR1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Baena
- Plant Science Group, Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bower Building, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Lingfeng Xia
- Plant Science Group, Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bower Building, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Sakharam Waghmare
- Plant Science Group, Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bower Building, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Rucha Karnik
- Plant Science Group, Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bower Building, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
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Wetherall K, Cleare S, McClelland H, Melson AJ, Niedzwiedz CL, O'Carroll RE, O'Connor DB, Platt S, Scowcroft E, Watson B, Zortea T, Ferguson E, Robb KA, O'Connor RC. Mental health and well-being during the second wave of COVID-19: longitudinal analyses of the UK COVID-19 Mental Health and Wellbeing study (UK COVID-MH). BJPsych Open 2022; 8:e103. [PMID: 35642377 PMCID: PMC9171032 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2022.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Waves 1 to 3 (March 2020 to May 2020) of the UK COVID-19 Mental Health and Wellbeing study suggested an improvement in some indicators of mental health across the first 6 weeks of the UK lockdown; however, suicidal ideation increased. AIMS To report the prevalence of mental health and well-being of adults in the UK from March/April 2020 to February 2021. METHOD Quota sampling was employed at wave 1 (March/April 2020), and online surveys were conducted at seven time points. Primary analyses cover waves 4 (May/June 2020), 5 (July/August 2020), 6 (October 2020) and 7 (February 2021), including a period of increased restrictions in the UK. Mental health indicators were suicidal ideation, self-harm, suicide attempt, depression, anxiety, defeat, entrapment, loneliness and well-being. RESULTS A total of 2691 (87.5% of wave 1) individuals participated in at least one survey between waves 4 and 7. Depressive symptoms and loneliness increased from October 2020 to February 2021. Defeat and entrapment increased from July/August 2020 to October 2020, and remained elevated in February 2021. Well-being decreased from July/August 2020 to October 2020. Anxiety symptoms and suicidal ideation did not change. Young adults, women, those who were socially disadvantaged and those with a pre-existing mental health condition reported worse mental health. CONCLUSIONS The mental health and well-being of the UK population deteriorated from July/August 2020 to October 2020 and February 2021, which coincided with the second wave of COVID-19. Suicidal thoughts did not decrease significantly, suggesting a need for continued vigilance as we recover from the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Wetherall
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Seonaid Cleare
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Heather McClelland
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Ambrose J. Melson
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | | | - Steve Platt
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, UK
| | | | | | - Tiago Zortea
- Oxford Institute of Clinical Psychology Training and Research, University of Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - Rory C. O'Connor
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, UK
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48
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Lucas-Herald AK, Montezano AC, Alves-Lopes R, Haddow L, Alimussina M, O’Toole S, Flett M, Lee B, Amjad SB, Steven M, Brooksbank K, McCallum L, Delles C, Padmanabhan S, Ahmed SF, Touyz RM. Vascular dysfunction and increased cardiovascular risk in hypospadias. Eur Heart J 2022; 43:1832-1845. [PMID: 35567552 PMCID: PMC9113289 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Hypogonadism is associated with cardiovascular disease. However, the cardiovascular impact of hypogonadism during development is unknown. Using hypospadias as a surrogate of hypogonadism, we investigated whether hypospadias is associated with vascular dysfunction and is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. METHODS AND RESULTS Our human study spanned molecular mechanistic to epidemiological investigations. Clinical vascular phenotyping was performed in adolescents with hypospadias and controls. Small subcutaneous arteries from penile skin from boys undergoing hypospadias repair and controls were isolated and functional studies were assessed by myography. Vascular smooth muscle cells were used to assess: Rho kinase, reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide, and DNA damage. Systemic oxidative stress was assessed in plasma and urine. Hospital episode data compared men with a history of hypospadias vs. controls. In adolescents with hypospadias, systolic blood pressure (P = 0.005), pulse pressure (P = 0.03), and carotid intima-media thickness standard deviation scores (P = 0.01) were increased. Arteries from boys with hypospadias demonstrated increased U46619-induced vasoconstriction (P = 0.009) and reduced acetylcholine-induced endothelium-dependent (P < 0.0001) and sodium nitroprusside-induced endothelium-independent vasorelaxation (P < 0.0001). Men born with hypospadias were at increased risk of arrhythmia [odds ratio (OR) 2.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4-5.6, P = 0.003]; hypertension (OR 4.2, 95% CI 1.5-11.9, P = 0.04); and heart failure (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.7-114.3, P = 0.02). CONCLUSION Hypospadias is associated with vascular dysfunction and predisposes to hypertension and cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Underlying mechanisms involve perturbed Rho kinase- and Nox5/ROS-dependent signalling. Our novel findings delineate molecular mechanisms of vascular injury in hypogonadism, and identify hypospadias as a cardiovascular risk factor in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela K Lucas-Herald
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Augusto C Montezano
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Rheure Alves-Lopes
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Laura Haddow
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Malika Alimussina
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Stuart O’Toole
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Martyn Flett
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Boma Lee
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - S Basith Amjad
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Mairi Steven
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Katriona Brooksbank
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Linsay McCallum
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Christian Delles
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Sandosh Padmanabhan
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - S Faisal Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Rhian M Touyz
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
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Campbell K, Gifford RJ, Singer J, Hill V, O’Toole A, Rambaut A, Hampson K, Brunker K. Making genomic surveillance deliver: A lineage classification and nomenclature system to inform rabies elimination. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010023. [PMID: 35500026 PMCID: PMC9162366 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The availability of pathogen sequence data and use of genomic surveillance is rapidly increasing. Genomic tools and classification systems need updating to reflect this. Here, rabies virus is used as an example to showcase the potential value of updated genomic tools to enhance surveillance to better understand epidemiological dynamics and improve disease control. Previous studies have described the evolutionary history of rabies virus, however the resulting taxonomy lacks the definition necessary to identify incursions, lineage turnover and transmission routes at high resolution. Here we propose a lineage classification system based on the dynamic nomenclature used for SARS-CoV-2, defining a lineage by phylogenetic methods for tracking virus spread and comparing sequences across geographic areas. We demonstrate this system through application to the globally distributed Cosmopolitan clade of rabies virus, defining 96 total lineages within the clade, beyond the 22 previously reported. We further show how integration of this tool with a new rabies virus sequence data resource (RABV-GLUE) enables rapid application, for example, highlighting lineage dynamics relevant to control and elimination programmes, such as identifying importations and their sources, as well as areas of persistence and routes of virus movement, including transboundary incursions. This system and the tools developed should be useful for coordinating and targeting control programmes and monitoring progress as countries work towards eliminating dog-mediated rabies, as well as having potential for broader application to the surveillance of other viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Campbell
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J. Gifford
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Joshua Singer
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Verity Hill
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Aine O’Toole
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Rambaut
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Katie Hampson
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Kirstyn Brunker
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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50
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Sonnenberg P, Menezes D, Freeman L, Maxwell KJ, Reid D, Clifton S, Tanton C, Copas A, Riddell J, Dema E, Bosó Pérez R, Gibbs J, Ridge MC, Macdowall W, Unemo M, Bonell C, Johnson AM, Mercer CH, Mitchell K, Field N. Intimate physical contact between people from different households during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed-methods study from a large, quasi-representative survey (Natsal-COVID). BMJ Open 2022; 12:e055284. [PMID: 35140158 PMCID: PMC8829844 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Physical distancing as a non-pharmaceutical intervention aims to reduce interactions between people to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Intimate physical contact outside the household (IPCOH) may expand transmission networks by connecting households. We aimed to explore whether intimacy needs impacted adherence to physical distancing following lockdown in Britain in March 2020. METHODS The Natsal-COVID web-panel survey (July-August 2020) used quota-sampling and weighting to achieve a quasi-representative population sample. We estimate reporting of IPCOH with a romantic/sexual partner in the 4 weeks prior to interview, describe the type of contact, identify demographic and behavioural factors associated with IPCOH and present age-adjusted ORs (aORs). Qualitative interviews (n=18) were conducted to understand the context, reasons and decision making around IPCOH. RESULTS Of 6654 participants aged 18-59 years, 9.9% (95% CI 9.1% to 10.6%) reported IPCOH. IPCOH was highest in those aged 18-24 (17.7%), identifying as gay or lesbian (19.5%), and in steady non-cohabiting relationships (56.3%). IPCOH was associated with reporting risk behaviours (eg, condomless sex, higher alcohol consumption). IPCOH was less likely among those reporting bad/very bad health (aOR 0.54; 95% CI 0.32 to 0.93) but more likely among those with COVID-19 symptoms and/or diagnosis (aOR 1.34; 95% CI 1.10 to 1.65). Two-thirds (64.4%) of IPCOH was reported as being within a support bubble. Qualitative interviews found that people reporting IPCOH deliberated over, and made efforts to mitigate, the risks. CONCLUSIONS Given 90% of people did not report IPCOH, this contact may not be a large additional contributor to SARS-CoV-2 transmission, although heterogeneity exists within the population. Public health messages need to recognise how single people and partners living apart balance sexual intimacy and relationship needs with adherence to control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pam Sonnenberg
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Dee Menezes
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lily Freeman
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Karen J Maxwell
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - David Reid
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Soazig Clifton
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
- NatCen Social Research, London, UK
| | - Clare Tanton
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Andrew Copas
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Julie Riddell
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Emily Dema
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Raquel Bosó Pérez
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Jo Gibbs
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mary-Clare Ridge
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Wendy Macdowall
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Magnus Unemo
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Örebro University, Orebro, Sweden
| | - Chris Bonell
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Anne M Johnson
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Kirstin Mitchell
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Nigel Field
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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