bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity and Relative Validity of Alternative Methods of Assessing Physical Activity in Epidemiologic Studies: Findings From the Men’s Lifestyle Validation Study
Authors: Pernar Claire H , Chomistek Andrea K , Barnett Junaidah B , Ivey Kerry , Al-Shaar Laila , Roberts Susan B , Rood Jennifer , Fielding Roger A , Block Jason , Li Ruifeng , Willett Walter C , Parmigiani Giovanni , Giovannucci Edward L , Mucci Lorelei A , Rimm Eric B
Published: March 2022

In the Men’s Lifestyle Validation Study (2011–2013), we examined the validity and relative validity of a physical activity questionnaire (PAQ), a Web-based 24-hour recall (Activities Completed Over Time in 24 Hours (ACT24)), and an accelerometer by multiple comparison methods. Over the course of 1 year, 609 men completed 2 PAQs, two 7-day accelerometer measurements, at least 1 doubly labeled water (DLW) physical activity level (PAL) measurement (n = 100 with repeat measurements), and 4 ACT24s; they also measured their resting pulse rate. A subset (n = 197) underwent dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (n = 99 with repeated measurements). The method of triads was used to estimate correlations with true activity using DLW PAL, accelerometry, and the PAQ or ACT24 as alternative comparison measures. Estimated correlations of the PAQ with true activity were 0.60 (95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.52, 0.68) for total activity, 0.69 (95% CI: 0.61, 0.79) for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and 0.76 (95% CI: 0.62, 0.93) for vigorous activity. Corresponding correlations for total activity were 0.53 (95% CI: 0.45, 0.63) for the average of 4 ACT24s and 0.68 (95% CI: 0.61, 0.75) for accelerometry. Total activity and MVPA measured by PAQ, ACT24, and accelerometry were all significantly correlated with body fat percentage and resting pulse rate, which are physiological indicators of physical activity. Using a combination of comparison methods, we found the PAQ and accelerometry to have moderate validity for assessing physical activity, especially MVPA, in epidemiologic studies.
News in Astronomy & Geophysics – April 2022
Authors: Bowler Sue , Gunn Alastair
Published: March 2022

A digest of some of the big stories from the past two months
Comprehensive assessment of cellular senescence in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Wang Xiaoman , Ma Lifei , Pei Xiaoya , Wang Heping , Tang Xiaoqiang , Pei Jian-Fei , Ding Yang-Nan , Qu Siyao , Wei Zi-Yu , Wang Hui-Yu , Wang Xiaoyue , Wei Gong-Hong , Liu De-Pei , Chen Hou-Zao
Published: March 2022

Cellular senescence (CS), a state of permanent growth arrest, is intertwined with tumorigenesis. Due to the absence of specific markers, characterizing senescence levels and senescence-related phenotypes across cancer types remain unexplored. Here, we defined computational metrics of senescence levels as CS scores to delineate CS landscape across 33 cancer types and 29 normal tissues and explored CS-associated phenotypes by integrating multiplatform data from ~20 000 patients and ~212 000 single-cell profiles. CS scores showed cancer type-specific associations with genomic and immune characteristics and significantly predicted immunotherapy responses and patient prognosis in multiple cancers. Single-cell CS quantification revealed intra-tumor heterogeneity and activated immune microenvironment in senescent prostate cancer. Using machine learning algorithms, we identified three CS genes as potential prognostic predictors in prostate cancer and verified them by immunohistochemical assays in 72 patients. Our study provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating senescence levels and clinical relevance, gaining insights into CS roles in cancer- and senescence-related biomarker discovery.
Prognostic impact of perineural invasion in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: multicentre study
Authors: Wei Tao , Zhang Xu-Feng , He Jin , Popescu Irinel , Marques Hugo P. , Aldrighetti Luca , Maithel Shishir K. , Pulitano Carlo , Bauer Todd W. , Shen Feng , Poultsides George A. , Soubrane Oliver , Martel Guillaume , Koerkamp Bas Groot , Itaru Endo , Lv Yi , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: March 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic impact of perineural invasion (PNI) on tumour recurrence and survival among patients with resected intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).

Methods

This was a multicentre, retrospective study of patients who underwent resection with curative intent for ICC between 2000 and 2017. The relationship between PNI, clinicopathological characteristics, and long-term survival was analysed in the overall cohort and the subset of patients with early-stage ICC.

Results

Among 1095 patients who underwent resection of ICC, PNI was present in 239 (21.8 per cent). In univariable analysis, PNI was associated with worse disease-free survival (DFS) (median 13.2 versus 16.1 months for patients with and without PNI respectively; P = 0.038) and overall survival (OS) (26.4 versus 41.5 months; P < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, PNI was an independent risk factor associated with reduced DFS (hazard ratio (HR) 1.56, 95 per cent c.i. 1.06 to 2.13; P = 0.019) and OS (HR 1.74, 1.16 to 2.60; P = 0.007). In subgroup analysis of patients with early-stage disease (AJCC T1–2, 981 patients; or N0, 249 patients), PNI remained associated with worse DFS (T1–2: median 13.7 versus 16.6 months in patients with and without PNI respectively, P = 0.019; N0: 11.7 versus 17.5 months, P = 0.022) and OS (T1–2: 28.5 versus 45.7 months, P < 0.001; N0: 34.9 versus 47.5 months, P = 0.036).

Conclusion

PNI is a strong independent predictor of tumour recurrence and long-term survival following resection of ICC with curative intent, even among patients with early-stage disease. The presence of PNI should be assessed routinely.
Differential T-Cell Immunity to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in mRNA-1273– and BNT162b2-Vaccinated Individuals
Authors: Gallagher Kathleen M E , Leick Mark B , Larson Rebecca C , Berger Trisha R , Katsis Katelin , Yam Jennifer Y , Maus Marcela V
Published: March 2022

COVID-19 breakthrough cases among vaccinated individuals demonstrate the value of measuring long-term immunity to SARS-CoV-2 and its variants. We demonstrate that anti-spike T-cell responses and IgG antibody levels are maintained but decrease over time and are lower in BNT162b2- versus mRNA-1273–vaccinated individuals. T-cell responses to the variants are relatively unaffected.
Antibody-Mediated Immunogenicity Against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Following Priming, Boosting, and Hybrid Immunity: Insights From 11 Months of Follow-up of a Healthcare Worker Cohort in Israel, December 2020–October 2021
Authors: Edelstein Michael , Wiegler Beiruti Karine , Ben-Amram Hila , Bar-Zeev Naor , Sussan Christian , Asulin Hani , Strauss David , Bathish Younes , Zarka Salman , Abu Jabal Kamal
Published: March 2022

Background

We determined circulating anti-S severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody titers in a vaccinated healthcare workers (HCWs) cohort from Northern Israel in the 11 months following primary vaccination according to age, ethnicity, and previous infection status.

Methods

All consenting HCWs were invited to have their IgG levels measured before vaccination and at 6 subsequent timepoints using a quantitative S1/S2 IgG assay. All HCWs with suspected coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tested. We described trends in circulating IgG geometric mean concentration (GMC) by age, ethnicity, timing of boosting, and previous infection status and compared strata using Kruskall-Wallis tests.

Results

Among 985 vaccinated HCWs, IgG titers between 1 month post 2nd dose to pre-boosting gradually decreased in all age groups. Younger or previously infected individuals had higher initial post-vaccination IgG levels (P < .001 in both cases); differences substantially decreased or disappeared at 7–9 months, before boosting. The proportion of individuals infected prior to initiating vaccination and re-infected after dose 1 was comparable to the proportion of breakthrough infection post-dose 2 in those not previously infected (4.2 vs 4.7%). Pre-infection IgG levels in the 40 participants with breakthrough infection after dose 2 were similar to levels measured at the same timepoint in vaccinated HCWs who remained uninfected (P > .3). Post-dose3 IgG levels were more than 10-fold those 1 month post-dose 2.

Conclusions

Immunity waned in all age groups and previously infected individuals, reversed by boosting. IgG titers decrease and reinfections in individuals with hybrid immunity (infection + vaccination) suggests they may also require further doses. Our study also highlights the difficulty in determining protective IgG levels.
The impact of COVID-19 on bike-sharing travel pattern and flow structure: evidence from Wuhan
Authors: Li Qiumeng , Xu Weipan
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically influenced urban mobility patterns. This paper explores the impact of the pandemic on the travel patterns and flow structure of bike-sharing, in Wuhan, China. We find that during the pandemic, bike-sharing became a major mode of transport and helped for the travel to hospitals. In post-pandemic Wuhan, more cycling neighbourhoods emerged in suburban areas, and the percentage of bike-sharing ridership in denser areas tends to decrease, especially in workplaces, indicating there is a decentralised trend of bike-sharing flow structure. These findings imply that bike-sharing plays a significant role in promoting urban resilience, and are helpful to build bike-friendly cities and communities in the post-pandemic era.
Comprehensive Analysis of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Using Long-Read Sequencing
Authors: Liu Yingdi , Chen Miaomiao , Liu Jing , Mao Aiping , Teng Yanling , Yan Huiming , Zhu Huimin , Li Zhuo , Liang Desheng , Wu Lingqian
Published: March 2022

Background

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is an autosomal recessive disorder that has been included in newborn screening programs. Current approaches to gene testing for CAH are facing challenges because of the complexity of the CYP21A2 locus and genetic heterogeneity of the disease.

Methods

A comprehensive analysis of CAH (CACAH) combining long-range locus-specific PCR and long-read sequencing (LRS) was developed to perform full sequence analysis of 5 common CAH candidate genes, including CYP21A2, CYP11B1, CYP17A1, HSD3B2, and StAR. In a blind retrospective study, the clinical utility of CACAH was evaluated in 37 samples by comparing to standard CAH testing using multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) plus Sanger sequencing.

Results

Of the 37 clinical samples, a total of 69 pathogenic variants were identified, comprising 65 CYP21A2 variants, 2 HSD3B2 variants, and 2 CYP17A1 variants. For CYP21A2, the most frequent variant was c.518T > A (29.2%), followed by c.293−13C/A > G (21.5%). Compared with the current CAH testing using MLPA plus Sanger sequencing, the CACAH assay showed 100% specificity and 100% sensitivity, and precisely determined the junction sites of deletions/insertions and cis–trans configuration of multiple variants without analyzing family samples. Moreover, CACAH identified a case carrying 2 copies of CYP21A1 with the c.1451_1452delinsC variant on the same chromosome, which was not confirmed by MLPA plus Sanger sequencing.

Conclusion

LRS-based CACAH can determine all genotypes of CAH accurately and reliably in one assay, presenting a comprehensive approach for CAH genetic diagnosis and carrier screening.
Adult T-cells impair neonatal cardiac regeneration
Authors: Dolejsi Theresa , Delgobo Murilo , Schuetz Thomas , Tortola Luigi , Heinze Katrin G , Hofmann Ulrich , Frantz Stefan , Bauer Axel , Ruschitzka Frank , Penninger Josef M , Campos Ramos Gustavo , Haubner Bernhard J
Published: March 2022

Aims

Newborn mice and humans display transient cardiac regenerative potential that rapidly declines postnatally. Patients who survive a myocardial infarction (MI) often develop chronic heart failure due to the heart’s poor regeneration capacity. We hypothesized that the cardiac ‘regenerative-to-scarring’ transition might be driven by the perinatal shifts observed in the circulating T-cell compartment.

Methods and results

Post-MI immune responses were characterized in 1- (P1) vs. 7-day-old (P7) mice subjected to left anterior descending artery ligation. Myocardial infarction induced robust early inflammatory responses (36 h post-MI) in both age groups, but neonatal hearts exhibited rapid resolution of inflammation and full functional recovery. The perinatal loss of myocardial regenerative capacity was paralleled by a baseline increase in αβ-T cell (CD4+ and CD8+) numbers. Strikingly, P1-infarcted mice reconstituted with adult T-cells shifted to an adult-like healing phenotype, marked by irreversible cardiac functional impairment and increased fibrosis. Infarcted neonatal mice harbouring adult T-cells also had more monocyte-derived macrophage recruitment, as typically seen in adults. At the transcriptome level, infarcted P1 hearts that received isolated adult T-cells showed enriched gene sets linked to fibrosis, inflammation, and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) signalling. In contrast, newborn mice that received isolated Ifng  –/– adult T-cells prior to MI displayed a regenerative phenotype that resembled that of its age-matched untreated controls.

Conclusion

Physiological T-cell development or adoptive transfer of adult IFN-γ-producing T-cells into neonates contributed to impaired cardiac regeneration and promoted irreversible structural and functional cardiac damage. These findings reveal a trade-off between myocardial regenerative potential and the development of T-cell competence.
Kidney transplantation and withdrawal rates among wait-listed first-generation immigrants in Italy
Authors: Grossi Alessandra Agnese , Puoti Francesca , Fiaschetti Pamela , Di Ciaccio Paola , Maggiore Umberto , Cardillo Massimo
Published: March 2022

Background

Multiple barriers diminish access to kidney transplantation (KT) in immigrant compared to non-immigrant populations. It is unknown whether immigration status reduces the likelihood of KT after wait-listing despite universal healthcare coverage with uniform access to transplantation.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data of all adult waiting list (WL) registrants in Italy (2010–20) followed for 5 years until death, KT in a foreign center, deceased-donor kidney transplant (DDKT), living-donor kidney transplant (LDKT) or permanent withdrawal from the WL. We calculated adjusted relative probability of DDKT, LDKT and permanent WL withdrawal in different immigrant categories using competing-risks multiple regression models.

Results

Patients were European Union (EU)-born (n = 21 624), Eastern European-born (n = 606) and non-European-born (n = 1944). After controlling for age, sex, blood type, dialysis vintage, case-mix and sensitization status, non-European-born patients had lower LDKT rates compared to other immigrant categories: LDKT adjusted relative probability of non-European-born vs. Eastern European-born 0.51 (95% CI: 0.33–0.79; P = 0.002); of non-European-born vs. EU-Born: 0.65 (95% CI: 0.47–0.82; P = 0.001). Immigration status did not affect the rate of DDKT or permanent WL withdrawal.

Conclusions

Among EU WL registrants, non-European immigration background is associated with reduced likelihood of LDKT but similar likelihood of DDKT and permanent WL withdrawal. Wherever not available, new national policies should enable coverage of travel and medical fees for living-donor surgery and follow-up for non-resident donors to improve uptake of LDKT in immigrant patients, and provide KT education that is culturally competent, individually tailored and easily understandable for patients and their potential living donors.
Implementing primary care diabetes prevention for women with previous gestational diabetes: a mixed-methods study
Authors: O’Reilly Sharleen L , May Carl R , Ford Dale , Dunbar James A
Published: March 2022

Background

The implementation of diabetes prevention for women with previous gestational diabetes (GDM) has been stymied by many barriers that are located within routine general practice (GP). We aimed to unpack the GP factors and understand the mechanisms that explain why a diabetes prevention intervention for this population succeeds or fails.

Methods

We performed a mixed-methods study with a Normalization Process Theory framework that included clinical audits, semistructured interviews, and focus groups within mixed urban and rural primary care practices in Victoria, Australia. Staff of primary care practices and external support staff who provide services to women with previous GDM participated in a 12-month quality improvement collaborative intervention. We compared diabetes screening and prevention activity planning with the strategies and factors identified through a process evaluation of full-, moderate-, and low-active participating practices.

Results

The intervention doubled screening rates (26%–61%) and 1-in-10 women received a diabetes prevention planning consultation. Critical improvement factors were: mothers being seen as participants in the quality improvement work; staff collectively building care strategies; staff taking a long-term care of a community perspective rather than episodic service delivery; and feedback processes being provided and acted on across the practice. The observable factors from the external perspective were: leadership by identified practice staff, reminder systems in action and practice staff driving the process collectively.

Conclusions

Successful engagement in diabetes prevention for women with previous GDM requires proactive building of the critical improvement factors and audit feedback into routine GP.
Predictors, Types of Internet Use, and the Psychological Well-Being of Older Adults: A Comprehensive Model
Authors: Rosell Javiera , Vergés Alvaro , Miranda-Castillo Claudia , Sepúlveda-Caro Sofía , Gómez Macarena
Published: March 2022

Objectives

This study aims to evaluate a comprehensive model that includes predictors of use, types of Internet use, and psychological well-being outcomes in the older population.

Methods

The total sample comprised 650 older Internet users. Structural equation modeling was used to estimate the effect of predictors (i.e., effort expectancy, performance expectancy, social influence, and ageism) on types of Internet use (i.e., information seeking, communication, instrumental use, and leisure) and the impact of the type of use on the psychological well-being of older adults (i.e., depressive and anxious symptomatology). In addition, the indirect effect of different types of Internet use was evaluated, that is, they were considered as mediator variables.

Results

Effort expectancy, social influence, and ageism predicted different types of Internet use. The relationship between effort expectancy and anxious symptomatology had an indirect effect via information seeking, whereas the relationship between ageism and anxious symptomatology showed an indirect effect via leisure.

Discussion

The findings support the importance of differentiating the types of Internet use to understand its impact on psychological well-being. Information seeking is associated with anxious symptomatology and is predicted by effort expectancy. On the contrary, leisure is crucial because of its relationship with anxious symptomatology, and less ageism can promote it. This information is useful for developing effective interventions that promote the well-being of older adults through the Internet, including strategies to cope with some online challenges that could lead to negative consequences, such as information overload.
‘A cloister of curious workmanship’: the patronage of St. Stephen’s cloisters within the Palace of Westminster in the early sixteenth century
Authors: Biggs Elizabeth
Published: March 2022

A beautiful set of early sixteenth-century cloisters survive today within the nineteenth-century houses of parliament. Built for St. Stephen’s College, they have survived fire and bombs to become one of just three pre-modern survivals within the modern palace. Unlike the better-known Westminster Hall, the cloisters have received little attention because they have been offices for M.P.s and parliamentary staff. As there are no surviving building accounts, this article uses the institutional context and history that produced the cloisters, the design of the surviving vaulting and possible patronages to reassess a significant ecclesiastical project on the eve of the Reformation.
Crown-Presidentialism
Authors: Partlett William
Published: March 2022

This article will theorize a previously unidentified type of constitutional design that I call “crown-presidentialism.” Crown-presidential design combines constitutional powers exercised by elected presidents in both presidential and semi-presidential systems. First, as in presidentialism, crown-presidential constitutions grant the elected president final management power over the makeup of the executive-branch government. Second, as in a semi-presidentialism, crown-presidential constitutions afford the elected president guardian powers to control the legislative branch as well as important judicial, prosecutorial, and integrity institutions. This formal design has provided presidents an important tool for dominating both formal and informal politics while claiming fidelity to democratic constitutional design. Crown-presidentialism is therefore an important tool in the super-presidentialism of many new authoritarian regimes. This finding is a reminder of the importance of formal design rules in shaping political behavior—even in some forms of authoritarian governance.
Total arch replacement with the frozen elephant trunk technique for a right-sided aortic arch with a Kommerell diverticulum and aberrant right vertebral artery
Authors: Nagata Tomoki , Iwakoshi Shinichi , Yamada Takashi , Johno Hiroyuki
Published: March 2022

The best treatment for a right-sided aortic arch (RAA) and Kommerell diverticulum (KD) has not been determined due to the rarity of these conditions. The current trend in the treatment of this disease is to increase the endovascular approach without a sternotomy. We describe a rare condition with an association of an RAA with a KD of an aberrant left subclavian artery and an anomalous right vertebral artery originating from the aortic arch (AVA). The left vertebral artery was missing. Also, there was an incomplete circle of Willis due to the absence of the left and right posterior communication arteries. Therefore, the AVA was the only artery to supply the vertebral-basilar system. In our case, a simple thoracic endovascular aortic repair was not suitable because of the sharply curved arch and short landing zone. Also, a debranching thoracic endovascular aortic repair was not appropriate because that approach would not permit reconstruction of the AVA. The patient successfully underwent a total arch replacement with the frozen elephant trunk technique. This procedure could be an effective option for patients with RAAs with KDs associated with another arch vessel anomaly.
Kerler–Lyubashenko Functors on 4-Dimensional 2-Handlebodies
Authors: Beliakova Anna , De Renzi Marco
Published: March 2022

We construct a braided monoidal functor $J_4$ from Bobtcheva and Piergallini’s category $4\textrm {HB}$ of connected 4-dimensional 2-handlebodies (up to 2-deformations) to an arbitrary unimodular ribbon category $\mathscr {C}$, which is not required to be semisimple. The main example of target category is provided by ${H}\textrm{-mod}$, the category of left modules over a unimodular ribbon Hopf algebra $H$. The source category $4\textrm {HB}$ is freely generated, as a braided monoidal category, by a Bobtcheva--Piergallini Hopf (BPH) algebra object, and this is sent by the Kerler–Lyubashenko functor $J_4$ to the end $\int _{X \in \mathscr {C}} X \otimes X^*$ in $\mathscr {C}$, which is given by the adjoint representation in the case of ${H}\textrm{-mod}$. When $\mathscr {C}$ is factorizable, we show that the construction only depends on the boundary and signature of handlebodies and thus projects to a functor $J_3^{\sigma }$ defined on Kerler’s category $3\textrm {Cob}^{\sigma }$ of connected framed 3-dimensional cobordisms. When $H^*$ is not semisimple and $H$ is not factorizable, our functor $J_4$ has the potential of detecting diffeomorphisms that are not 2-deformations.
Effect of Plastic Mulch Colors on Anasa tristis (Hemiptera: Coreidae) Population Dynamics in Summer Squash, Cucurbita pepo (Cucurbitales: Cucurbitaceae)
Authors: Boyle Sean M , Alford Adam M , McIntyre Kelly C , Weber Donald C , Kuhar Thomas P
Published: March 2022

The squash bug, Anasa tristis (De Geer), is a serious pest of cucurbit crops across the United States, especially within summer squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) systems. Using their piercing sucking mouthparts, squash bugs feed on both leaf tissue and fruits, often leading to leaf necrosis, marketable fruit loss, and even plant death. To date, the relationship between squash bug presence and plasticulture has not been adequately investigated. This 2-yr study evaluated the effects of white, black, and reflective plastic mulch colors on the occurrence of all squash bug life stages and marketable zucchini yield in Virginia. In both years, A. tristis adults and egg masses were more numerous on zucchini plants grown in white and reflective plastic mulch compared to bare ground plants. Greater nymphal densities and marketable fruit yield were observed in certain plastic mulch treatments versus the bare ground treatment, yet these differences were not consistent in both years. Contrary to the repellency effects reflective mulches have on other cucurbit insect pests, our research suggests that reflective and other plastic mulch colors can negatively impact squash bug management, especially in regions with high A. tristis pressure. Our study offers new insights for cucurbit growers to use when considering whether they should implement plasticulture in their growing systems.
Fertility Effects on Blueberry Gall Midge (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) in Wild Blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium; Ericales: Ericaceae)
Authors: Gumbrewicz R , Calderwood L
Published: March 2022

Blueberry gall midge, Dasineura oxycoccana (Johnson) (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) is a pest in American cranberry, Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton (Ericales: Ericaceae) and wild blueberry, Vaccinium angustifolium Aiton (Ericales: Ericaceae), and has been observed in areas of high soil and foliar nutrient levels. New management strategies, including fertilization, will need to be altered to sustain wild blueberry production under climate change and, in turn, may impact the occurrence of this pest. The purpose of this study was to measure the effect of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertilizer application on density of infested stems and the combined effects of fertilizer application with and without infestation on wild blueberry systems. This study was conducted at two field sites in Jonesboro and Washington, ME during 2020 and 2021. Despite increases in habitat availability (blueberry cover) for the gall midge and greater infestation density, wild blueberry production benefited from DAP application. This was shown in the number of buds per stem at both sites, as well as in stem height, flowers, green fruit, blue fruit per stem, and total yield at the Washington site. Foliar nitrogen and phosphorus levels had a significant positive linear relationship with infestation density. Growers applying fertilizers should monitor blueberry gall midge field infestation levels due to our findings that DAP fertilizer impacted infestation density and the interaction of DAP fertilizer with infestation impacted wild blueberry production.
Causation and the Legal Character of Command Responsibility after Bemba at the International Criminal Court
Authors: Jackson Miles
Published: March 2022

This article concerns the issue of causation under Article 28 of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and the related foundational question of the legal character of command responsibility under that provision. It has two aims. First, it notes that across the proceedings in Bemba, judges were united in understanding command responsibility as a mode of liability. It then sets out four different positions on the question of causation in Bemba and argues that none is convincing — that none is able to escape the tensions that follow from that understanding of the legal character of command responsibility. Second, it suggests that the Court revisit that foundational understanding itself: it proposes that the Court interprets Article 28 as establishing a separate offence of omission and argues that such a reading of the Statute is plausible and attractive in principle and policy terms.
Choledochal cysts type VI: biliary cyst of the cystic duct with connecting to right anterior sectoral bile duct: a case report
Authors: Maneepairoj Nattaporn , Burasakarn Pipit , Thienhiran Anuparp , Fuengfoo Pusit , Linananda Sutdhachit , Hongjinda Sermsak
Published: March 2022

Type VI choledochal cysts or cystic duct dilatation cysts are a relatively new and rare condition. We report the case of a 35-year-old man who presented with a history of recurrent episodes of epigastrium pain. Magnetic resonance cholangiography revealed a cyst lodged between the cystic duct and the right anterior sectoral bile duct. He underwent a laparoscopic right anterior sectorectomy with cholecystectomy. Pathological examination revealed a cyst with a fibrous wall, dense chronic inflammatory infiltration, lined by columnar epithelium. Due to its rarity, the diagnosis is often made intraoperatively. The treatment of cystic duct cysts includes cholecystectomy, complete cyst excision, recontinuity of the common bile duct. Type VI choledochal cysts are extremely rare. Preoperative diagnosis, using either magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, is vital to prevent postoperative complications. Treatment of this type of cysts includes cholecystectomy and complete cyst excision and biliary-enteric reconstruction if necessary.
Genetic analysis of early phenology in lentil identifies distinct loci controlling component traits
Authors: Rajandran Vinodan , Ortega Raul , Vander Schoor Jacqueline K , Butler Jakob B , Freeman Jules S , Hecht Valerie F G , Erskine Willie , Murfet Ian C , Bett Kirstin E , Weller James L
Published: March 2022

Modern-day domesticated lentil germplasm is generally considered to form three broad adaptation groups: Mediterranean, South Asian, and northern temperate, which correspond to the major global production environments. Reproductive phenology plays a key role in lentil adaptation to this diverse ecogeographic variation. Here, we dissect the characteristic earliness of the pilosae ecotype, suited to the typically short cropping season of South Asian environments. We identified two loci, DTF6a and DTF6b, at which dominant alleles confer early flowering, and we show that DTF6a alone is sufficient to confer early flowering under extremely short photoperiods. Genomic synteny confirmed the presence of a conserved cluster of three florigen (FT) gene orthologues among potential candidate genes, and expression analysis in near-isogenic material showed that the early allele is associated with a strong derepression of the FTa1 gene in particular. Sequence analysis revealed a 7.4 kb deletion in the FTa1–FTa2 intergenic region in the pilosae parent, and a wide survey of >350 accessions with diverse origin showed that the dtf6a allele is predominant in South Asian material. Collectively, these results contribute to understanding the molecular basis of global adaptation in lentil, and further emphasize the importance of this conserved genomic region for adaptation in temperate legumes generally.
Genome-wide association mapping identifies an SNF4 ortholog that impacts biomass and sugar yield in sorghum and sugarcane
Authors: Upadhyaya Hari D , Wang Lihua , Prakash Chudamani Sharma , Liu Yanlong , Gao Li , Meng Ruirui , Seetharam Kaliyamoorthy , Gowda C L Laxmipathi , Ganesamurthy Kulandaivelu , Singh Shailesh Kumar , Kumar Rajendra , Li Jieqin , Wang Yi-Hong
Published: March 2022

Sorghum is a feed/industrial crop in developed countries and a staple food elsewhere in the world. This study evaluated the sorghum mini core collection for days to 50% flowering (DF), biomass, plant height (PH), soluble solid content (SSC), and juice weight (JW), and the sorghum reference set for DF and PH, in 7–12 testing environments. We also performed genome-wide association mapping with 6 094 317 and 265 500 single nucleotide polymorphism markers in the mini core collection and the reference set, respectively. In the mini core panel we identified three quantitative trait loci for DF, two for JW, one for PH, and one for biomass. In the reference set panel we identified another quantitative trait locus for PH on chromosome 6 that was also associated with biomass, DF, JW, and SSC in the mini core panel. Transgenic studies of three genes selected from the locus revealed that Sobic.006G061100 (SbSNF4-2) increased biomass, SSC, JW, and PH when overexpressed in both sorghum and sugarcane, and delayed flowering in transgenic sorghum. SbSNF4-2 encodes a γ subunit of the evolutionarily conserved AMPK/SNF1/SnRK1 heterotrimeric complexes. SbSNF4-2 and its orthologs will be valuable in genetic enhancement of biomass and sugar yield in plants.
Phytomelatonin as a central molecule in plant disease resistance
Authors: Zeng Hongqiu , Bai Yujing , Wei Yunxie , Reiter Russel J , Shi Haitao
Published: March 2022

Melatonin is an essential phytohormone in the regulation of many plant processes, including during plant development and in response to stress. Pathogen infections cause serious damage to plants and reduce agricultural production. Recent studies indicate that melatonin plays important roles in alleviating bacterial, fungal, and viral diseases in plants and post-harvest fruits. Herein, we summarize information related to the effects of melatonin on plant disease resistance. Melatonin, reactive oxygen species, and reactive nitrogen species form a complex loop in plant–pathogen interaction to regulate plant disease resistance. Moreover, crosstalk of melatonin with other phytohormones including salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, auxin, and abscisic acid further activates plant defense genes. Melatonin plays an important role not only in plant immunity but also in alleviating pathogenicity. We also summarize the known processes by which melatonin mediates pathogenicity via negatively regulating the expression levels of genes related to cell viability as well as virulence-related genes. The multiple mechanisms underlying melatonin influences on both plant immunity and pathogenicity support the recognition of the essential nature of melatonin in plant–pathogen interactions, highlighting phytomelatonin as a critical molecule in plant immune responses.
Quality Assessment and Clinical Utility of Plasma Obtained Via Apheresis vs That Obtained from Whole Blood
Authors: Hussein Eiman , Enein Azza Aboul
Published: March 2022

Objective

We studied the impact of storage of thawed plasma (TP) on the in vitro coagulation quality and posttransfusion outcomes of apheresis plasma (AP) vs whole blood plasma (WBP).

Methods

One hundred units of each product were analyzed. In vitro assays were performed on TP on day 0, day 2, and after refreezing, evaluating international normalized ratio (INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), fibrinogen, and factors V and VIII. Transfusion of TP on day 2 was studied in 70 patients with liver cirrhosis and 25 patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP).

Results

Refrozen specimens from both products showed a significant decline of all values, although AP had a considerably greater coagulation profile (P < .05).

On day 0 and day 2, we observed significant decreases in coagulation values (except fibrinogen) with WBP, compared with AP (P < .05). The WBP, however, provided similar INR for patients with liver cirrhosis and TTP, as compared with AP. The AP resulted in a significant correction of aPTT following plasma exchange in TTP (P < .05).

Conclusion

AP demonstrated considerably greater factor activity. This would be beneficial when manufacturing clotting factor concentrates. Large scale clinical trials are needed to further address the hemostatic outcomes of both products in massively transfused patients.
The cyclic behaviour in the N–S asymmetry of sunspots and solar plages for the period 1910 to 1937 using data from Ebro catalogues
Authors: de Paula V , Curto J J , Oliver R
Published: March 2022

The heliophysics catalogues published by the Ebro Observatory during 1910–1937 have been converted into a digital format in order to provide the data for computational processing. This has allowed us to study in detail the North–South (N–S) asymmetry of solar activity in that period, focusing on two different structures located at two different layers of the solar atmosphere: sunspots (Photosphere) and solar plages (Chromosphere). The examination of the absolute and normalized N–S asymmetry indices in terms of their monthly sum of occurrences and areas has made possible to find out a cyclic behaviour in the solar activity, in which the preferred hemisphere changes systematically with a global period of $7.9 \pm 0.2\ \mathrm{yr}$. In order to verify and quantify accurately this periodicity and study its prevalence in time, we employed the Royal Greenwich Observatory-United States Air Force/National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration sunspot data series during 1874–2016. Then, we examined each absolute asymmetry index time series through different techniques as the power-spectrum analysis, the Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition With Adaptive Noise algorithm or the Morlet wavelet transform. The combined results reveal a cyclic behaviour at different time-scales, consisting in two quite stable periodicities of $1.47 \pm 0.02\ \mathrm{yr}$ and $3.83 \pm 0.06\ \mathrm{yr}$, which co-exist with another three discontinuous components with more marked time-varying periods with means of $5.4 \pm 0.2\ \mathrm{yr}$, $9.0 \pm 0.2\ \mathrm{yr}$, and $12.7 \pm 0.3\ \mathrm{yr}$. Moreover, during 1910–1937, only two dominant signals with averaged periods of $4.10 \pm 0.04\ \mathrm{yr}$ and $7.57 \pm 0.03\ \mathrm{yr}$ can be clearly observed. Finally, in both signals, periods are slightly longer for plages in comparison with sunspots.
Chaotic dynamics of wide triples induced by galactic tides: a novel channel for producing compact binaries, mergers, and collisions
Authors: Grishin Evgeni , Perets Hagai B
Published: March 2022

Recent surveys show that wide (>104 AU) binaries and triples are abundant in the field. We study the long-term evolution of wide hierarchical triple systems and the role played by the Galactic tidal (GT) field. We find that when the time-scales of the secular von–Ziepel–Lidov–Kozai and the GT oscillations are comparable, triple evolution becomes chaotic which leads to extreme eccentricities. Consequently, the close pericentre approaches of the inner-binary components lead to strong interactions, mergers, and collisions. We use a novel secular evolution code to quantify the key parameters and carry out a population-synthesis study of low and intermediate-mass wide-orbit triples. We find that in $\sim 9{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of low-mass wide-triples the inner main-sequence binaries collide or tidally-inspiral within $10\ \rm Gyr$, with direct collisions are 6 times more likely to occur. For the intermediate-mass sample, $\sim 7.6{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of the systems merge or inspiral with roughly equal probabilities. We discuss the relative fractions of different stellar merger/inspiral outcomes as a function of their evolutionary stage (Main Sequence, MS; Red Giant, RG; or White Dwarf, WD), their transient electromagnetic signatures and the final products of the merger/inspiral. In particular, the rate of WD–WD direct-collisions that lead to type-Ia Supernovae is comparable to other dynamical channels and accounts for at most $0.1{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of the observed rate. RG inspirals provide a novel channel for the formation of eccentric common-envelope-evolution binaries. The catalysis of mergers/collisions in triples due to GT could explain a significant fraction, or even the vast majority, of blue-stragglers in the field, produce progenitors for cataclysmic-variables, and give-rise to mergers/collisions of double-RG binaries.
Merging the Sonata and the Concerto: The Role of Virtuosic Passages in Determining Formal Closure in High-Classical Sonata Expositions
Authors: Aziz Andrew
Published: March 2022

This article investigates formal closure in sonata expositions of the high-classical era, focusing on the boundary point between secondary and closing zones. In particular, I shine a spotlight on how virtuosic passages impact perceptions of formal closure in the piano sonatas of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven. This article codifies how virtuosity can be a primary ingredient for deferral of closure (termed “virtuosic deferral”), by applying a particular case of Schmalfeldt’s concept of retrospective reinterpretation: what initially appears to be the onset of the closing zone becomes a resumption of the secondary zone (C => S). Furthermore, I demonstrate how an exposition’s “display episode,” as a virtuosic passage for a soloist within a concerto, can function autonomously within piano sonatas as an agent for virtuosic deferral. Integrating intuitions from concertos, I present analyses of a wide range of sonata movements, distinguishing my approach from those that favor either early-as-possible closure (Hepokoski and Darcy) or the “large view of S” (Caplin). My narratives supplement the New Formenlehre toolbox by offering a compromise between divergent readings of form, as well as positing interpretations of works that would otherwise be viewed as problematic within a theory’s designated limits.
DAVID: a web server for functional enrichment analysis and functional annotation of gene lists (2021 update)
Authors: Sherman Brad T , Hao Ming , Qiu Ju , Jiao Xiaoli , Baseler Michael W , Lane H Clifford , Imamichi Tomozumi , Chang Weizhong
Published: March 2022

DAVID is a popular bioinformatics resource system including a web server and web service for functional annotation and enrichment analyses of gene lists. It consists of a comprehensive knowledgebase and a set of functional analysis tools. Here, we report all updates made in 2021. The DAVID Gene system was rebuilt to gain coverage of more organisms, which increased the taxonomy coverage from 17 399 to 55 464. All existing annotation types have been updated, if available, based on the new DAVID Gene system. Compared with the last version, the number of gene-term records for most annotation types within the updated Knowledgebase have significantly increased. Moreover, we have incorporated new annotations in the Knowledgebase including small molecule-gene interactions from PubChem, drug-gene interactions from DrugBank, tissue expression information from the Human Protein Atlas, disease information from DisGeNET, and pathways from WikiPathways and PathBank. Eight of ten subgroups split from Uniprot Keyword annotation were assigned to specific types. Finally, we added a species parameter for uploading a list of gene symbols to minimize the ambiguity between species, which increases the efficiency of the list upload and eliminates confusion for users. These current updates have significantly expanded the Knowledgebase and enhanced the discovery power of DAVID.
Opportunities and challenges for the development of “core outcome sets” in neuro-oncology
Authors: Millward Christopher P , Armstrong Terri S , Barrington Heather , Brodbelt Andrew R , Bulbeck Helen , Byrne Anthony , Dirven Linda , Gamble Carrol , Grundy Paul L , Islim Abdurrahman I , Javadpour Mohsen , Keshwara Sumirat M , Krishna Sandhya T , Mallucci Conor L , Marson Anthony G , McDermott Michael W , Meling Torstein R , Oliver Kathy , Pizer Barry , Plaha Puneet , Preusser Matthias , Santarius Thomas , Srikandarajah Nisaharan , Taphoorn Martin J B , Watts Colin , Weller Michael , Williamson Paula R , Zadeh Gelareh , Zamanipoor Najafabadi Amir H , Jenkinson Michael D
Published: March 2022

Core Outcome Sets (COS) define minimum outcomes to be measured and reported in clinical effectiveness trials for a particular health condition/health area. Despite recognition as critical to clinical research design for other health areas, none have been developed for neuro-oncology. COS development projects should carefully consider: scope (how the COS should be used), stakeholders involved in development (including patients as both research partners and participants), and consensus methodologies used (typically a Delphi survey and consensus meeting), as well as dissemination plans. Developing COS for neuro-oncology is potentially challenging due to extensive tumor subclassification (including molecular stratification), different symptoms related to anatomical tumor location, and variation in treatment options. Development of a COS specific to tumor subtype, in a specific location, for a particular intervention may be too narrow and would be unlikely to be used. Equally, a COS that is applicable across a wider area of neuro-oncology may be too broad and therefore lack specificity. This review describes why and how a COS may be developed, and discusses challenges for their development, specific to neuro-oncology. The COS under development are briefly described, including: adult glioma, incidental/untreated meningioma, meningioma requiring intervention, and adverse events from surgical intervention for pediatric brain tumors.
USF1/CD90 signaling in maintaining glioblastoma stem cells and tumor-associated macrophages adhesion
Authors: Zhou Yuanshuai , Meng Xingjun , He Wen , Li Xinying , Zhao Rongchuan , Dong Caihua , Yuan Detian , Yang Jiao , Zhang Ruobing , Shi Guohua , Huang Yulun , Liu Jiangang , Liu Jianping , Liu Songbai , Fu Peng , Sun Minxuan
Published: March 2022

Background

Glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) and their interplay with tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are responsible for malignant growth and tumor recurrence of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), but the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown.

Methods

Cell viability, stemness, migration, and invasion were measured in GSCs after the knockdown of upstream stimulating factor 1 (USF1). Luciferase assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation qPCR were performed to determine the regulation of CD90 by USF1. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescent staining were used to examine the expression of USF1 and GSC markers, as well as the crosstalk between GSCs and TAMs. In addition, the interaction between GSCs and TAMs was confirmed using in vivo GBM models.

Results

We show that USF1 promotes malignant glioblastoma phenotypes and GSCs-TAMs physical interaction by inducing CD90 expression. USF1 predicts a poor prognosis for glioma patients and is upregulated in patient-derived GSCs and glioblastoma cell lines. USF1 overexpression increases the proliferation, invasion, and neurosphere formation of GSCs and glioblastoma cell lines, while USF1 knockdown exerts an opposite effect. Further mechanistic studies reveal that USF1 promotes GSC stemness by directly regulating CD90 expression. Importantly, CD90 of GSCs functions as an anchor for physical interaction with macrophages. Additionally, the USF1/CD90 signaling axis supports the GSCs and TAMs adhesion and immunosuppressive feature of TAMs, which in turn enhance the stemness of GSCs. Moreover, the overexpression of CD90 restores the stemness property in USF1 knockdown GSCs and its immunosuppressive microenvironment.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the USF1/CD90 axis might be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of glioblastoma.