bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The contrasting response of cavity‐nesting bees, wasps and their natural enemies to biodiversity conservation measures
Authors: Beyer Nicole , Kulow Josephine , Dauber Jens
Published: March 2023

The implementation of agri‐environmental schemes (AES) is a major tool to sustain biodiversity and ecosystem services in European agricultural landscapes. The benefit of different types and features of novel biodiversity measures needs to be assessed in order to successfully conserve insect communities in agroecosystems.

We set up trap nests in 3 × 3 km landscapes in Germany, in which farmers implemented different novel biodiversity measures. We tested the effect of different features of the closest three biodiversity measures (i.e. distance to measures, measures' area, measures' quality) and of the proximity to forest and oilseed rape and of landscape connectivity on the abundance and species richness of cavity‐nesting bees, wasps and their natural enemies.

We found total cavity‐nesting insect abundances to increase with measures' quality and to decline with increasing distance to oilseed rape and forest. Parasitism and mortality rates declined with edge density.

Cavity‐nesting bees were not affected by biodiversity measures. Total wasp and herbivore‐predating wasp abundances increased in proximity to biodiversity measures. The abundance and species richness of all wasps, natural enemies and spider‐predating wasps declined with increasing distance to forest.

Cavity‐nesting wasps benefit from biodiversity measures, while effects on solitary bees might only be detectable after several years after measure establishment. The proximity to forest is a major factor promoting insects as forest edges provide food, nesting sites and shelter. We emphasise the need for long‐term insect monitoring and an increasing focus of future AES on the creation of nesting habitats for effective insect conservation.
ChatGPTand consumers: Benefits, Pitfalls and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Paul Justin , Ueno Akiko , Dennis Charles
Published: March 2023

The need of the hour is to encourage research on topics with newness and novelty. In this context, this article discusses multidimensional benefits and potential pitfalls of using artificial intelligence‐based Chat Generative Pre‐trained Transformer (ChatGPT), and provides numerous ideas for future research in consumer studies and marketing in the context of ChatGPT. ChatGPT provides algorithm‐generated conversational responses to text‐based prompts. Since its launch in the late 2022, ChatGPT has generated significant debate surrounding its hallmarks, benefits and potential pitfalls. On the one hand, ChatGPT can offer enhanced consumer engagement, improved customer service, personalization and shopping, social interaction and communication practice, cost‐effectiveness, insights into consumer behaviour and improved marketing campaigns. On the other hand, potential pitfalls include concerns about consumer well‐being, bias, misinformation, lack of context, privacy concerns, ethical considerations and security. The article concludes by outlining a potential future research agenda in the area of ChatGPT and consumer studies. Overall, this article provides valuable insights into the benefits and challenges associated with ChatGPT, shedding light on its potential applications and the need for further research.
Evaluation of ureteral injuries caused by ureteral access sheath insertion during ureteroscopic lithotripsy
Authors: Taguchi Makoto , Yasuda Kaneki , Kinoshita Hidefumi
Published: March 2023

Objective

To evaluate ureteral injuries caused by insertion of a 13‐Fr ureteral access sheath and identify factors (other than pre‐stenting) that are predictive of ureteral injury.

Methods

We enrolled 201 patients who underwent ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL). We excluded 80 patients who underwent ureteral stent insertion before URSL, 10 patients who did not use a ureteral access sheath, and 2 patients in whom a ureteral access sheath could not be inserted. In total, 109 patients were analyzed; all underwent insertion of a 13‐Fr ureteral access sheath. We investigated ureteral injuries using the Traxer ureteral injury scale.

Results

There were 21 (19.3%) cases of ureteral access sheath‐related ureteral injury, including 11 (10.1%) grade 2 cases and 10 (9.2%) grade 3 cases. The ureteral injury location was the proximal ureter in 20 cases (18.3%), middle ureter in one case (0.9%), and distal ureter in zero cases. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that male sex and smaller stone diameter were significant predictive factors for ureteral injury (p = 0.037, odds ratio [OR]: 5.19, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11–24.3 and p = 0.02, OR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.71–0.97, respectively). Postoperative ureteral stricture did not occur in any cases.

Conclusions

The rate of ureteral injury caused by a 13‐Fr ureteral access sheath was considerable, and most ureteral injuries occurred in the proximal ureter. Male sex and smaller stone diameter were significant predictive factors for ureteral injury. The proximal ureter should be confirmed when using a 13‐Fr ureteral access sheath, particularly in male patients and patients with small stones.
Human serum‐derived exosomes modulate macrophage inflammation to promote VCAM1‐mediated angiogenesis and bone regeneration
Authors: Xiang Xi , Pathak Janak Lal , Wu Wenbin , Li Jianwen , Huang Wenyan , Wu Qiuyu , Xin Mengyu , Wu Yuejun , Huang Yuhang , Ge Linhu , Zeng Sujuan
Published: March 2023

During exogenous bone‐graft‐mediated bone defect repair, macrophage inflammation dictates angiogenesis and bone regeneration. Exosomes from different human cells have shown macrophage immunomodulation‐mediated bone regeneration potential. However, the effect of human serum‐derived exosomes (serum‐Exo) on macrophage immunomodulation‐mediated angiogenesis during bone defect repair has not been investigated yet. In this study, we explored the effects of serum‐Exo on macrophage inflammation regulation‐mediated angiogenesis during bone defect repair and preliminarily elucidated the mechanism. Healthy serum‐Exo was isolated by ultracentrifugation. The effect of serum‐Exo on LPS‐induced M1 macrophage inflammation was analysed in vitro. The conditioned medium of serum‐Exo‐treated LPS‐induced M1 macrophage (serum‐Exo‐treated M1 macrophage‐CM) was used to culture human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), and the effect on angiogenesis was analysed by western blot, qRT‐PCR, etc. mRNA‐sequencing of HUVECs was performed to identify deferentially expressed genes. Finally, the rat mandibular defect model was established and treated with Bio‐Oss and Bio‐Oss + Exo. The effect of the Bio‐Oss + Exo combination on mandibular bone regeneration was observed by micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT), haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, Masson staining, and immunohistochemical staining. Serum‐Exo promoted the proliferation of RAW264.7 macrophages and reduced the expression of M1‐related genes such as IL‐6, IL‐1β, iNOS, and CD86. Serum‐Exo‐treated M1 macrophage‐CM induced the proliferation, migration, and angiogenic differentiation of HUVEC, as well as the expression of H‐type blood vessel markers CD31 and endomucin (EMCN), compared with M1 macrophage‐CM. Moreover, higher expression of vascular endothelial adhesion factor 1 (VCAM1) in HUVEC cultured with serum‐Exo‐treated M1 macrophage‐CM compared with M1 macrophages‐CM. Inhibition of VCAM1 signalling abrogated the pro‐angiogenic effect of serum‐Exo‐treated M1 macrophage‐CM on HUVEC. Local administration of serum‐Exo during mandibular bone defect repair reduced the number of M1 macrophages and promoted angiogenesis and osteogenesis. Collectively, our results demonstrate the macrophage inflammation regulation‐mediated pro‐angiogenic potential of serum‐Exo during bone defect repair possibly via upregulation of VCAM1 signalling in HUVEC.
The distribution of in‐person public K‐12 education in the time ofCOVID: An empirical perspective
Authors: Heise Michael
Published: March 2023

In response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, most schools across the United States abruptly transitioned to remote, virtual learning in the spring of 2020. For the 2020–2021 school year, however, public school districts' instructional mode decisions (in‐person, hybrid, and remote) varied across districts and throughout the school year. This study focuses on factors that informed school districts' instructional mode decisions and how student access to in‐person instruction, in turn, distributed across districts and students (and their families). Levering the leading nationwide data set gathered by the COVID‐19 School Data Hub (“CSDH”), supplemented by district per‐pupil spending information as well as various state‐level data, this study analyzes the percentage of in‐person instruction for the 2020–2021 school year offered by 11,063 regular public school districts from 42 states. Core findings underscore that school districts with Republican governors and in rural areas provided comparably more in‐person schooling. Conversely, school districts with higher enrollments and higher percentages of underrepresented minority students provided less. Furthermore, COVID‐19‐related death rates and the likelihood of in‐person schooling were positively related. These findings, while mixed, nonetheless raise troubling equal educational opportunity doctrine questions.
The association between frailty and the risk of medication‐related problems among community‐dwelling older adults in Europe
Authors: Ye Lizhen , Nieboer Daan , Yang‐Huang Junwen , Borrás Tamara Alhambra , Garcés‐Ferrer Jorge , Verma Arpana , van Grieken Amy , Raat Hein
Published: March 2023

Background

Studies revealed unidirectional associations between frailty and medication‐related problems (MRPs) among older adults. Less is known about the association between frailty and the risk of MRPs. We aimed to assess the bi‐directional association between frailty and the risk of MRPs in community‐dwelling older adults in five European countries.

Methods

Participants were 1785 older adults in the population‐based Urban Health Centres Europe project. Repeated assessments were collected at baseline and one‐year follow‐up, including frailty, the risk of MRPs, and covariates. Linear regression analyses were conducted to examine the unidirectional associations. A cross‐lagged panel modeling was used to assess bi‐directional associations.

Results

The unidirectional association between frailty at baseline and the risk of MRPs at follow‐up remained statistically significant after adjusting for covariates (β = 0.10, 95%CI:0.08, 0.13). The association between the risk of MRPs at baseline and frailty at follow‐up shows similar trends. The bi‐directional association was comparable with reported unidirectional associations, with a stronger effect from frailty at baseline to the risk of MRPs at follow‐up than reversed path (Wald test for comparing lagged effects: p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This longitudinal study suggests that a cycle may exist where older adults with higher frailty levels are more likely to have a higher risk of MRPs, which in turn contributes to developing a higher level of frailty. Further research is needed to validate our findings and explore underlying pathways.
The endo‐beta mannase MAN7 contributes to cadmium tolerance by modulating root cell wall binding capacity in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Wu Qi , Meng Yu Ting , Feng Zhi Hang , Shen Ren Fang , Zhu Xiao Fang
Published: March 2023

The heavy metal cadmium (Cd) is detrimental to crop growth and threatens human health through the food chain. To cope with Cd toxicity, plants employ multiple strategies to decrease Cd uptake and its root‐to‐shoot translocation. However, genes that participate in the Cd‐induced transcriptional regulatory network, including those encoding transcription factors, remain largely unidentified. In this study, we demonstrate that ENDO‐BETA‐MANNASE 7 (MAN7) is necessary for the response of Arabidopsis thaliana to toxic Cd levels. We show that MAN7 is responsible for mannase activity and modulates mannose content in the cell wall, which plays a role in Cd compartmentalization in the cell wall under Cd toxicity conditions. Additionally, the repression of root growth by Cd was partially reversed via exogenous application of mannose, suggesting that MAN7‐mediated cell wall Cd redistribution depends on the mannose pathway. Notably, we identified a basic leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factor, bZIP44, that acts upstream of MAN7 in response to Cd toxicity. Transient dual‐luciferase assays indicated that bZIP44 directly binds to the MAN7 promoter region and activates its transcription. Loss of bZIP44 function was associated with greater sensitivity to Cd treatment and higher accumulation of the heavy metal in roots and shoots. Moreover, MAN7 overexpression relieved the inhibition of root elongation seen in the bzip44 mutant under Cd toxicity conditions. This study thus reveals a pathway showing that MAN7‐associated Cd tolerance in Arabidopsis is controlled by bZIP44 upon Cd exposure.
Changes in family functioning among primary family caregivers of patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Hsiao Chiu‐Yueh , Hsieh Ming‐Hong , Chung Feng‐Chin , Chiu Shu‐Chuan , Chang Chi‐Wen , Tsai Yun‐Fang
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Family functioning, particularly among primary family caregivers for patients with schizophrenia, is a global concern that poses unprecedented challenges. The family unit is a pivotal agent for the preservation of the integrity of individual members. Little attention has been paid to the changes in family functioning and their predictors in primary family caregivers. This study aimed to examine the changes in and the correlates of family functioning in primary family caregivers of individuals with schizophrenia over a 6‐month post‐discharge period.

Design

A prospective, longitudinal study was conducted.

Methods

A total of 58 primary family caregivers of patients with schizophrenia were recruited from two psychiatric hospitals in Taiwan. Data were collected four times, including 1 week before hospital discharge and at 1‐, 3‐, and 6‐month intervals post‐discharge. Demographic and clinical questionnaires, the Affiliate Stigma Scale, the Family Empowerment Scale, and the General Functioning subscale were used to collect data. Generalized Estimating Equations were applied for data analysis.

Results

Approximately 59.6%–77.6% of primary family caregivers presented unhealthy family functioning during the 6‐month post‐discharge period. Significant reductions in family functioning of primary family caregivers were noted in the group with unhealthy family functioning; however, family functioning of primary family caregivers remained unchanged in the group with healthy family functioning over 6 months. Affiliate stigma and family empowerment significantly accounted for the changes in family functioning of primary family caregivers in the groups with unhealthy and healthy family functioning, respectively.

Conclusion

This study highlights affiliate stigma and family empowerment as long‐term predictors of changes in family functioning for primary family caregivers and as pivotal targets of mental health care.

Clinical Relevance

Family‐centered interventions with a focus on ameliorating affiliate stigma and enhancing family empowerment are recommended to improve family functioning for primary family caregivers of patients with schizophrenia at different periods after hospital discharge.
Colonial Scholars and Anti‐Colonial Agents: Politics of Academic Knowledge Production Between the West Indies and London in the Mid‐20thCentury
Authors: Cramer Meta
Published: March 2023

This paper analyses the socio‐spatial entanglement of West Indian anti‐colonial knowledge production in the mid‐20thcentury existingbetweenLondon and the Caribbean. This is interpreted as a case of the paradoxical politics of academic knowledge production in that British imperial policies that were constraining knowledge production in the West Indies were also seen as facilitating anti‐colonial awareness and work in London by West Indian actors. Research demonstrating the importance of the metropole as a meeting place for global anti‐colonial actors is complemented by shifting the focus to the entangled spacebetweenLondon and the West Indies. This article comparatively analyses the academic politics of the British Colonial Office – a spatial dislocation of knowledge production away from the West Indies – and its perception and challenge by Caribbean intellectuals who were temporarily based in London. The analysis builds on contributions by C.L.R. James and S. Wynter and their reflections on the institutionalisation of research in the West Indies and their experiences in London. Overall, I emphasise a relational and symmetrising analysis of knowledge production in imperial contexts that accounts for the entanglement of imperial politics in the metropole and the colonies, and the perception and potential use of these political entanglements by actors in and from colonial contexts.
Profile of prosthodontics program directors in North America
Authors: Tjiptowidjojo Fransiskus Andrianto , Yuan Judy Chia‐Chun , Yadav Sangeeta , Reshan Adam , Sukotjo Cortino , Wee Alvin G.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To develop a current profile of prosthodontics program directors (PPDs) in United States dental schools and describe the current challenges and responsibilities of those serving in the position and assess the professional needs of the program directors (PDs) to better support them in their roles.

Materials and methods

A survey was sent to 51 participants who were identified as PPDs in North America via Qualtrics in 2019 to assess the professional needs of PDs to better support their roles. The survey consisted of 29 items organized into six sections: (1) demographic information; (2) hours and time spent in various areas of the job; (3) greatest challenges; (4) perceived importance of specific competencies; (5) opinions on the greatest rewards of the position; (6) their needs for support from the American College of Prosthodontists and advice for the future PD.

Results

The response rate for this survey was 88.3%. Of the 45 respondents, the majority were white/non‐Hispanic, followed by Asian/Pacific Islanders. The two largest and equal numbers of participants who worked for more than 10 years and between 1 and 3 years were observed with approximately 29% each, and PDs who worked less than a year occupied the least amount. Overall, 34% of PDs are on the tenure track and 80% of those are tenured. Teaching and clinical services took away the greatest time with approximately 42% and 22.1%, respectively. Thirty‐five (78%) PDs listed the greatest challenge they encountered was the workload of the role. Skills listed in leadership and personnel competencies were all rated more important than most of the skills listed in management.

Conclusions

There is a wide gender gap and a lack of racial diversity among the PPDs. The biggest challenge faced by them is the amount of workload followed by budget and fiscal constraints. And for their improved efficiency, they gave emphasis on learning time management and continuous clinical training of newer advances.
Harvesting the benefits of nutritional research to address global challenges in the 21st century
Authors: Glencross Brett , Fracalossi Débora Machado , Hua Katheline , Izquierdo Marisol , Mai Kangsen , Øverland Margareth , Robb David , Roubach Rodrigo , Schrama Johan , Small Brian , Tacon Albert , Valente Luisa M. P. , Viana Maria‐Teresa , Xie Shouqi , Yakupityage Amararatne
Published: March 2023

Over the past 20 years, substantial progress has been made in improving feeds and feeding technologies for most aquaculture species. Notable improvements in feed conversion efficiency (through a better understanding of requirements and improved feed management) and ingredient sustainability (through increased capability to use a wider range of ingredients) have been achieved. While advances have been made in understanding the requirements of many of the main aquaculture species, there is still much to be done in defining requirements, especially for many of the species being farmed in the developing world. Gains in the efficiency of feeds are slowing for developed species, but potential gains are still appreciable for less developed species. There is a growing need to more precisely prescribe the required levels of essential nutrients and various additives in the diet based on age, genotype, environment, and immune status to deliver a “precision nutrition” approach to farming aquaculture species. There is still further need to diversify our ingredient options to provide greater resilience, as the sustainability of different feed ingredient sources, including possible climate change impacts, is becoming a growing issue. There is a growing demand for biocircularity in our feed ingredient supply chains. Ultimately, what is needed to sustain future feed ingredient needs are sustainable sources of cost‐effective protein, some essential amino acid additives, some omega‐3 fatty acid resources, and various minerals and vitamin additives. The increasing use of new and varied resources will ensure that food safety remains an important issue throughout the world. Feed manufacturing has evolved from a simplistic exercise to a highly complex science with state‐of‐the‐art engineering, but its application is not consistent across all sectors, as there is still widespread use of pelleting, mash, and trash fish feeding in the developing world. Similarly, feed management has also dichotomized between the developed and developing world, with a high reliance on manual skilled labor in the developing world, whereas more advanced aquaculture systems are becoming increasingly reliant on automated computer‐controlled feeding systems.
Petrographic studies and mineralogical characterization of the Dellen impactites
Authors: Hietala Satu , Henkel Herbert , Plado Jüri
Published: March 2023

The impact origin of the Early Cretaceous (140.82 ± 0.51 Ma) 20‐km diameter Dellen structure was proven in the late 60s based on the discovery of planar deformation features (PDFs) in quartz grains. Although decades have passed, impactites found from the crater have not received much attention. Thus, this study provides a detailed petrological and mineralogical description of impactites from Dellen. Impactites were classified based on mineralogical observations using the latest recommendations of nomenclature. The studied samples include impact melt rocks (clast rich, clast poor, and clast free), suevitic impact breccias, shocked and unshocked granite, and a shatter cone. Altogether, 16 samples with different lithologies were studied using a polarization microscope. Selected samples were studied with an energy dispersive spectroscopy detector attached to the scanning electron microscopy. PDFs were indexed using a four‐axis universal stage from seven samples. Selected samples for PDF studies consisted of clast‐rich impact melt rocks (DEL10, DEL13, D99), suevitic impact breccias (DEL14, DEL16, DEL24), and shocked granite target rock (DEL17). A total of 197 PDF sets in 113 quartz grains were studied, and 186 sets resulted in rational crystallographic orientations. Common orientations include π{101̅2}, ω{101̅3}, z{101̅1}, ξ{112̅2}, and {101̅4}. In suevitic impact breccias and impact melt rocks, ballen silica and plagioclase with checkerboard texture were abundant. The petrographic results in Dellen impactites indicate a range of shock pressures from at least 2 to over 60 GPa, based on diagnostic shock metamorphic features in minerals and the occurrence of impact melt rock.
The contrasting effects of fluctuating temperature on bacterial diversity and performances in temperate and subtropical soils
Authors: Zhao Xin‐Feng , Li Bo‐Hui , Shu Wen‐Sheng , Hao Yi‐Qi
Published: March 2023

The extremely high species diversity of soil bacterial community has fascinated and puzzled community ecologists. Although theory predicts that fluctuations in environments can facilitate diversity maintenance, the effects of fluctuating temperature on species diversity have rarely been investigated in species‐rich microbial communities. Here, we examined whether fluctuating temperature had positive effects on species diversity relative to constant temperatures in soil bacterial communities, and investigated the effects of fluctuating temperature on bacterial performances (changes in relative abundance). We performed a temperature manipulation experiment with soils collected from temperate and subtropical zones, where the soils were subjected to constant high, low or fluctuating temperatures. We found that fluctuating temperatures showed significant positive effects on species diversity. The time‐averaged effect of fluctuating temperatures (i.e., averaging out the differences between species in their environment‐dependent performances) appeared to delay species loss in both the temperate and the subtropical communities. In addition, we found that the performances of temperature‐responsive species at fluctuating temperatures significantly deviated from their time‐weighted average performances at constant high and low temperatures, which was defined as fluctuation‐dependent effects in our study. Intriguingly, fluctuation‐dependent effects beyond time‐averaged effect led to an opposite trend: differences in temperature‐responsive species' performances decreased in the temperate communities, but increased in the subtropical communities. Our findings provide new insights into diversity maintenance in soil bacterial communities, and imply that the effects of fluctuating temperature on species diversity in soil bacterial community might vary across latitude.
Humpback whale song variations in La Reunion Island from 2016 to 2018 and in Madagascar in 2018
Authors: Vieira Sara
Published: March 2023

Male Megaptera novaeangliae produce complex and structured songs which are shared at the population level. Song patterns are culturally transmitted and evolve progressively through time, both over the breeding season and among years. The songs also undergo periods of relatively rapid change, termed “revolutions.” Acoustic monitoring was conducted from 2016 to 2018 in Reunion and throughout 2018 in Madagascar to assess spatiotemporal variation in song structures and population connectivity. A total of 46 high‐quality song samples were selected, representing 2,760 min of recordings in Reunion. In Madagascar, 12 samples representing 240 min of recordings were analyzed. Analysis of songs revealed 11 phrases and their variants. Low levels of temporal variations were observed over the breeding season. Songs recorded in June were very similar to those recorded in September. Greater variation was observed between years, and some phrases identified in 2018 may have evolved from phrases recorded in 2017. More variants were described for each phrase type in 2018 compared to 2016. All themes recorded in Reunion were shared with Madagascar, suggesting a high degree of population connectivity during the breeding season.
Social conformity is associated with inter‐trial electroencephalogram variability
Authors: Zhang Haoming , Zhang Kunkun , Zhang Ziqi , Zhao Mingqi , Liu Quanying , Luo Wenbo , Wu Haiyan
Published: March 2023

Human society encompasses diverse social influences, and people experience events differently and may behave differently under such influence, including in forming an impression of others. However, little is known about the underlying neural relevance of individual differences in following others’ opinions or social norms. In the present study, we designed a series of tasks centered on social influence to investigate the underlying relevance between an individual's degree of social conformity and their neural variability. We found that individual differences under the social influence are associated with the amount of inter‐trial electroencephalogram (EEG) variability over multiple stages in a conformity task (making face judgments and receiving social influence). This association was robust in the alpha band over the frontal and occipital electrodes for negative social influence. We also found that inter‐trial EEG variability is a very stable, participant‐driven internal state measurement and could be interpreted as mindset instability. Overall, these findings support the hypothesis that higher inter‐trial EEG variability may be related to higher mindset instability, which makes participants more vulnerable to exposed external social influence. The present study provides a novel approach that considers the stability of one's endogenous neural signal during tasks and links it to human social behaviors.
Intratumoral platelet microthrombi in oral squamous cell carcinoma: A marker of lymph node metastasis
Authors: Duan Wan , Wu Zhangxia , Mei Xueying , Li Jingyuan , Lu Huanzi , Liang Yujie , Lao Xiaomei , Liao Guiqing
Published: March 2023

Objective

A hypercoagulable state exists in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), but the role of platelets in the tumour microenvironment has not been explored. This study revealed the status of intratumoral plateletmicrothrombi (PLT‐MT) and their clinicopathological relevance and predictive value in OSCC.

Study Design

This study retrospectively evaluated 106 OSCC patients. Tumour and tumour‐adjacent tissue specimens were used to stain PLT‐MT. Clinicopathological information, patient follow‐ups and outcomes and preoperative coagulation and inflammatory hematologic indicators were collected, and their correlation with PLT‐MT was analysed.

Results

Intratumoral PLT‐MT was present in 35 of 106 patients with OSCC who had higher preoperative D‐dimer, CRP, FIB and PT levels and lower TT levels. PLT‐MT was an independent correlative factor of lymph node metastasis and suggested worse OS in N0 patients.

Conclusions

Intratumoral PLT‐MT was found in OSCC and was correlated with a hypercoagulable inflammatory state. PLT‐MT was an independent marker of lymph node metastasis and showed potential in prognosis prediction.
Visualising structural and functional characteristics distinguishing between newly diagnosed high‐tension and low‐tension glaucoma patients
Authors: Rafla Daniel , Khuu Sieu K. , Kashyap Sahana , Kalloniatis Michael , Phu Jack
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To determine whether there are quantifiable structural or functional differences that can distinguish between high‐tension glaucoma (HTG; intraocular pressure [IOP] > 21 mm Hg) and low‐tension glaucoma (LTG; IOP ≤ 21 mm Hg) at diagnosis.

Method

This was a retrospective, cross‐sectional study. Clinical results of one eye from 90 newly diagnosed HTG and 319 newly diagnosed LTG patients (117 with very‐low‐tension glaucoma [vLTG; ≤15 mm Hg] and 202 with middling LTG [mLTG; >15 mm Hg, ≤21 mm Hg]) were extracted, which included relevant demographic covariates of glaucoma, quantitative optical coherence tomography (including the optic nerve head, retinal nerve fibre layer and ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer) measurements and standard automated perimetry global metrics. We used binary logistic regression analysis to identify statistically significant clinical parameters distinguishing between phenotypic groups for inclusion in principal component (PC) (factor) analysis (PCA). The separability between each centroid for each cohort was calculated using the Euclidean distance (d(x,y)).

Results

The binary logistic regression comparing HTG and all LTG identified eight statistically significant clinical parameters. Subsequent PCA results included three PCs with an eigenvalue >1. PCs 1 and 2 accounted for 21.2% and 20.2% of the model, respectively, with a d(x,y) = 0.468, indicating low separability between HTG and LTG. The analysis comparing vLTG, mLTG and HTG identified 15 significant clinical parameters, which were subsequently grouped into five PCs. PCs 1 and 2 accounted for 24.1% and 17.8%, respectively. The largest separation was observed between vLTG and HTG (d(x,y) = 0.581), followed by vLTG and mLTG (d(x,y) = 0.435) and lastly mLTG and HTG (d(x,y) = 0.210).

Conclusion

Conventional quantitative structural or functional parameters could not distinguish between pressure‐defined glaucoma phenotypes at the point of diagnosis and are therefore not contributory to separating cohorts. The overlap in findings highlights the heterogeneity of the primary open‐angle glaucoma clinical presentations among pressure‐defined groups at the cohort level.
Multiplex CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated mutagenesis of alfalfa FLOWERING LOCUS Ta1 (MsFTa1) leads to delayed flowering time with improved forage biomass yield and quality
Authors: Wolabu Tezera W. , Mahmood Kashif , Jerez Ivone Torres , Cong Lili , Yun Jianfei , Udvardi Michael , Tadege Million , Wang Zengyu , Wen Jiangqi
Published: March 2023

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is a perennial flowering plant in the legume family that is widely cultivated as a forage crop for its high yield, forage quality and related agricultural and economic benefits. Alfalfa is a photoperiod sensitive long‐day (LD) plant that can accomplish its vegetative and reproductive phases in a short period of time. However, rapid flowering can compromise forage biomass yield and quality. Here, we attempted to delay flowering in alfalfa using multiplex CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated mutagenesis of FLOWERING LOCUS Ta1 (MsFTa1), a key floral integrator and activator gene. Four guide RNAs (gRNAs) were designed and clustered in a polycistronic tRNA–gRNA system and introduced into alfalfa by Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation. Ninety‐six putative mutant lines were identified by gene sequencing and characterized for delayed flowering time and related desirable agronomic traits. Phenotype assessment of flowering time under LD conditions identified 22 independent mutant lines with delayed flowering compared to the control. Six independent Msfta1 lines containing mutations in all four copies of MsFTa1 accumulated significantly higher forage biomass yield, with increases of up to 78% in fresh weight and 76% in dry weight compared to controls. Depending on the harvesting schemes, many of these lines also had reduced lignin, acid detergent fibre (ADF) and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) content and significantly higher crude protein (CP) and mineral contents compared to control plants, especially in the stems. These CRISPR/Cas9‐edited Msfta1 mutants could be introduced in alfalfa breeding programmes to generate elite transgene‐free alfalfa cultivars with improved forage biomass yield and quality.
Comprehensive genomic analyses of Vigna unguiculata provide insights into population differentiation and the genetic basis of key agricultural traits
Authors: Pan Lei , Liu Minghui , Kang Yan , Mei Xiang , Hu Gege , Bao Chun , Zheng Yu , Zhao Huixia , Chen Chanyou , Wang Nian
Published: March 2023

Vigna unguiculata is an important legume crop worldwide. The subsp. sesquipedalis and unguiculata are the two major types grown; the former is mainly grown in Asia to produce fresh pods, while the latter is mainly grown in Africa to produce seeds. Here, a chromosome‐scale genome for subsp. sesquipedalis was generated by combining high‐fidelity (HiFi) long‐read sequencing with high‐throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi‐C) technology. The genome size for all contigs and N50 were 594 and 18.5 Mb, respectively. The Hi‐C interaction map helped cluster 91% of the contigs into 11 chromosomes. Genome comparisons between subsp. sesquipedalis and unguiculata revealed extensive genomic variations, and some variations resulted in gene loss. A germplasm panel with 315 accessions of V. unguiculata was resequenced, and a genomic variation map was constructed. Population structure and phylogenetic analyses suggested that subsp. sesquipedalis originated from subsp. unguiculata. Highly differentiated genomic regions were also identified, and a number of genes functionally enriched in adaptations were located in these regions. Two traits, pod length (PL) and pod width (PW), were observed for this germplasm, and genome‐wide association analysis of these traits was performed. The quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for these two traits were identified, and their candidate genes were uncovered. Interestingly, genomic regions of PL QTLs also showed strong signals of artificial selection. Taken together, the results of this study provide novel insights into the population differentiation and genetic basis of key agricultural traits in V. unguiculata.
Socioeconomic status, race, and preadolescent acne: A population‐based retrospective cohort analysis in a mixed rural–urban community of the United States (Olmsted County, Minnesota)
Authors: Rodriguez Baisi Katinna E. , Weaver Amy L. , Wi Chung‐Il , Shakshouk Hadir , Tollefson Megha M.
Published: March 2023

Background/Objective

There is limited information about the potential relationship of socioeconomic status (SES) with acne in preadolescents. Our objective was to assess the possible relationship between SES and preadolescent acne.

Methods

A population‐based retrospective cohort study was conducted to identify Olmsted County, Minnesota, residents with an initial acne diagnosis between 7 and ≤12 years old during 2010 to 2018 using the Rochester Epidemiology Project. For each acne case, we randomly selected 2 sex‐ and age‐matched controls without an acne diagnosis from the county. Individual HOUsing‐based SocioEconomic Status index (HOUSES) derived from real property data was used to evaluate SES, represented as four quartiles with higher quartile representing higher SES.

Results

A total of 604 patients met the criteria. HOUSES distribution significantly differed between cases and controls (p = .001); a higher proportion of acne cases were in quartile 4 (42.2% vs. 32.7%), indicating higher SES. Race and ethnicity did not significantly differ between cases and controls. Among cases and controls, 74.5% and 72.3% were White, respectively. Study limitations include its retrospective design, only patients who visited a physician were included, and Olmsted County residents are largely non‐Hispanic White.

Conclusion

Preadolescents diagnosed with acne have a higher SES than those without diagnosed acne, highlighting a potential disparity in access to care and appropriate diagnosis.
Estimation of sperm concentration limits to produce intrauterine insemination doses in swine
Authors: Quirino Monike , da Rosa Gabriela Teixeira , Spohr Christ Thaís , Valadares Willian Rodrigues , da Rosa Ulguim Rafael , Bernardi Mari Lourdes , Schulze Martin , Mellagi Ana Paula Gonçalves , Bortolozzo Fernando Pandolfo
Published: March 2023

This study evaluated the effect of sperm concentration of boar semen doses, for intrauterine artificial insemination (IUAI), on semen quality and established concentration limits for their production. Twenty ejaculates from four crossbred mature PIC® boars were collected to produce 50 mL semen doses in a split sample, reaching the following sperm concentrations: ~20, 30, 60, and 100 × 106 cells/mL. Doses were produced using Androstar® Plus, stored at 17°C, and evaluated until 120 h of storage. There was a linear decrease in sperm motility as the sperm concentration increased (p linear < .01). The concentration which no longer affected the total and progressive motility was 59 and 55 × 106 cells/mL, respectively (corresponding to 71% and 62%, respectively). The pH linearly decreased as the sperm concentration increased (p < .01); yet, at 72 and 120 h, the parameter dramatically reduced in boar semen doses with 60 and 100 × 106 cells/mL. The percentage of cells with intact plasma and acrosomal membranes or with high mitochondrial membrane potential was not influenced by the sperm concentration (p ≥ .15). In conclusion, sperm motility was negatively affected in highly (60 and 100 × 106 cells/mL) concentrated doses. To achieve suitable sperm motility, boar semen doses may not surpass the sperm concentration of 55 × 106 cells/mL. The effect of low‐concentrated boar semen doses on sperm quality still needs to be better evaluated, mainly considering the influence of extender type and thermo‐resistance conditions.
A Girl and a Boy, Are a Bundle of Joy: A Rise in Gender‐Equitable Fertility Preferences in India
Authors: Bhatnagar Isha
Published: March 2023

Within the last decade, declining son preference in Asia has given rise to gender‐equitable fertility preferences. These include daughter preference, gender indifference, and gender balance. Using five rounds of the India National Family Health Surveys, I investigate the sources of the trends in shifting parental preferences for the gender of their children. Over more than a quarter‐century period (1992–1993 to 2019–2021), I find a significant decline in son preference from 40 to 18 percent and an increase in gender‐equitable preferences among most subpopulations. Multivariate analysis shows that for all survey years, education and frequent exposure to television significantly increased the odds of gender‐equitable preferences. In the last decade, community norms supporting women's employment are also associated with gender‐equitable preferences. In addition, decomposition analysis shows that compared to compositional change, social norm change accounts for two‐thirds of the rise in gender‐equitable preferences. These findings suggest that rising norms of gender equality have the potential to dismantle gender‐biased preferences in India.
Asthma and exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction in athletes: Diagnosis, treatment, and anti‐doping challenges
Authors: Hostrup Morten , Hansen Erik S. H. , Rasmussen Søren M. , Jessen Søren , Backer Vibeke
Published: March 2023

Athletes often experience lower airway dysfunction, such as asthma and exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), which affects more than half the athletes in some sports, not least in endurance sports. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and breathlessness, alongside airway narrowing, hyperresponsiveness, and inflammation. Early diagnosis and management are essential. Not only because untreated or poorly managed asthma and EIB potentially affects competition performance and training, but also because untreated airway inflammation can result in airway epithelial damage, remodeling, and fibrosis. Asthma and EIB do not hinder performance, as advancements in treatment strategies have made it possible for affected athletes to compete at the highest level. However, practitioners and athletes must ensure that the treatment complies with general guidelines and anti‐doping regulations to prevent the risk of a doping sanction because of inadvertently exceeding specified dosing limits. In this review, we describe considerations and challenges in diagnosing and managing athletes with asthma and EIB. We also discuss challenges facing athletes with asthma and EIB, while also being subject to anti‐doping regulations.
The novel HLA‐B*56:91 allele characterised by three different sequencing‐based typing techniques
Authors: Dhuyser Adèle , Pérès Michaël , Morel Thomas , Clément Sandra , Aarnink Alice
Published: March 2023

The novel allele HLA‐B*56:91 differs from HLA‐B*56:33 by one non‐synonymous nucleotide substitution in exon 2.
Spatiotemporal transcriptomics and metabolic profiling provide insights into gene regulatory networks during lentil seed development
Authors: Yu Bianyun , Gao Peng , Song Jingpu , Yang Hui , Qin Li , Yu Xiaoyu , Song Halim , Coulson Justin , Bekkaoui Yasmina , Akhov Leonid , Han Xiumei , Cram Dustin , Wei Yangdou , Zaharia L. Irina , Zou Jitao , Konkin David , Quilichini Teagen D. , Fobert Pierre , Patterson Nii , Datla Raju , Xiang Daoquan
Published: March 2023

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) is a nutritious legume with seeds rich in protein, minerals and an array of diverse specialized metabolites. The formation of a seed requires regulation and tight coordination of developmental programs to form the embryo, endosperm and seed coat compartments, which determines the structure and composition of mature seed and thus its end‐use quality. Understanding the molecular and cellular events and metabolic processes of seed development is essential for improving lentil yield and seed nutritional value. However, such information remains largely unknown, especially at the seed compartment level. In this study, we generated high‐resolution spatiotemporal gene expression profiles in lentil embryo, seed coat and whole seeds from fertilization through maturation. Apart from anatomic differences between the embryo and seed coat, comparative transcriptomics and weighted gene co‐expression network analysis revealed embryo‐ and seed coat‐specific genes and gene modules predominant in specific tissues and stages, which highlights distinct genetic programming. Furthermore, we investigated the dynamic profiles of flavonoid, isoflavone, phytic acid and saponin in seed compartments across seed development. Coupled with transcriptome data, we identified sets of candidate genes involved in the biosynthesis of these metabolites. The global view of the transcriptional and metabolic changes of lentil seed tissues throughout development provides a valuable resource for dissecting the genetic control of secondary metabolism and development of molecular tools for improving seed nutritional quality.
Multi‐institutional experience with COVID‐19 convalescent plasma in children
Authors: Jacquot Cyril , Gordon Oren , Noland Daniel , Donowitz Jeffrey R. , Levy Emily , Jain Sanjay , Willis Zachary , Rimland Casey , Loi Michele , Arrieta Antonio , Annen Kyle , Drapeau Noelle , Osborne Stephanie , Ardura Monica I. , Arora Satyam , Zivick Elise , Delaney Meghan
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives

Convalescent COVID‐19 plasma (CCP) was developed and used worldwide as a treatment option by supplying passive immunity. Adult studies suggest administering high‐titer CCP early in the disease course of patients who are expected to be antibody‐negative; however, pediatric experience is limited. We created a multi‐institutional registry to characterize pediatric patients (<18 years) who received CCP and to assess the safety of this intervention.

Methods

A REDCap survey was distributed. The registry collected de‐identified data including demographic information (age, gender, and underlying conditions), COVID‐19 disease features and concurrent treatments, CCP transfusion and safety events, and therapy response.

Results

Ninety‐five children received CCP: 90 inpatients and 5 outpatients, with a median age of 10.2 years (range 0–17.9). They were predominantly Latino/Hispanic and White. The most frequent underlying medical conditions were chronic respiratory disease, immunosuppression, obesity, and genetic syndromes. CCP was primarily given as a treatment (95%) rather than prophylaxis (5%). Median total plasma dose administered and transfusion rates were 5.0 ml/kg and 2.6 ml/kg/h, respectively. The transfusions were well‐tolerated, with 3 in 115 transfusions reporting mild reactions. No serious adverse events were reported. Severity scores decreased significantly 7 days after CCP transfusion or at discharge. Eighty‐five patients (94.4%) survived to hospital discharge. All five outpatients survived to 60 days.

Conclusions

CCP was found to be safe and well‐tolerated in children. CCP was frequently given concurrently with other COVID‐19‐directed treatments with improvement in clinical severity scores ≥7 days after CCP, but efficacy could not be evaluated in this study.