bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
External validation of yonsei nomogram predicting chronic kidney disease development after partial nephrectomy: An international, multicenter study
Authors: Abdel Raheem Ali , Landi Isotta , Alowidah Ibrahim , Capitanio Umberto , Montorsi Francesco , Larcher Alessandro , Derweesh Ithaar , Ghali Fady , Mottrie Alexander , Mazzone Elio , De Naeyer Geert , Campi Riccardo , Sessa Francesco , Carini Marco , Minervini Andrea , Raman Jay D. , Rjepaj Chris J. , Kriegmair Maximilian C. , Autorino Riccardo , Veccia Alessandro , Mir Maria Carmen , Claps Francesco , Choi Young Deuk , Ham Won Sik , Santok Glen Denmer , Tadifa John Paul , Syling Justin , Furlan Maria , Simeone Claudio , Bada Maida , Celia Antonio , Carrión Diego M. , Aguilera Bazan Alfredo , Ruiz Cristina Ballesteros , Malki Manar , Barber Neil , Hussain Muddassar , Micali Salvatore , Puliatti Stefano , Ghaith Ahmed , Hagras Ayman , Ghoneem Ayman M. , Eissa Ahmed , Alqahtani Abdulrahman , Rumaih Abdullah , Alwahabi Abdelaziz , Alenzi Mohammed Jayed , Pavan Nicola , Traunero Fabio , Antonelli Alessandro , Porcaro Antonio Benito , Illiano Ester , Costantini Elisabetta , Rha Koon Ho
Published: December 2022

Objective

To externally validate Yonsei nomogram.

Methods

From 2000 through 2018, 3526 consecutive patients underwent on‐clamp PN for cT1 renal masses at 23 centers were included. All patients had two kidneys, preoperative eGFR ≥60 ml/min/1.73 m2, and a minimum follow‐up of 12 months. New‐onset CKD was defined as upgrading from CKD stage I or II into CKD stage ≥III. We obtained the CKD‐free progression probabilities at 1, 3, 5, and 10 years for all patients by applying the nomogram found at https://eservices.ksmc.med.sa/ckd/. Thereafter, external validation of Yonsei nomogram for estimating new‐onset CKD stage ≥III was assessed by calibration and discrimination analysis.

Results and limitation

Median values of patients' age, tumor size, eGFR and follow‐up period were 47 years (IQR: 47–62), 3.3 cm (IQR: 2.5–4.2), 90.5 ml/min/1.73 m2 (IQR: 82.8–98), and 47 months (IQR: 27–65), respectively. A total of 683 patients (19.4%) developed new‐onset CKD. The 5‐year CKD‐free progression rate was 77.9%. Yonsei nomogram demonstrated an AUC of 0.69, 0.72, 0.77, and 0.78 for the prediction of CKD stage ≥III at 1, 3, 5, and 10 years, respectively. The calibration plots at 1, 3, 5, and 10 years showed that the model was well calibrated with calibration slope values of 0.77, 0.83, 0.76, and 0.75, respectively. Retrospective database collection is a limitation of our study.

Conclusions

The largest external validation of Yonsei nomogram showed good calibration properties. The nomogram can provide an accurate estimate of the individual risk of CKD‐free progression on long‐term follow‐up.
Collective bargaining in domestic work and its contribution to regulation and formalization in Italy
Authors: SEIFFARTH Marlene
Published: December 2022

Collective bargaining relating to domestic work is a rare occurrence and its contributions to regulation and formalization have not yet been addressed by the literature. Italy has one of the highest numbers of domestic workers in Europe and is one of the few countries with a national collective bargaining agreement. Trade unions and associations of family employers have been negotiating agreements since 1974. Based on expert interviews, the results of the present qualitative study suggest challenges and limitations to the collective bargaining process in domestic work in question, but also an ongoing formalization of nonstandard work in an occupation where employment is expanding and dominated by women migrant workers, due to collective bargaining and the commitment of the social partners.
Current approaches to the diagnosis and management of amyloidosis
Authors: Taylor Mark S. , Sidiqi Hasib , Hare James , Kwok Fiona , Choi Bo , Lee Darren , Baumwol Jay , Carroll Antonia S. , Vucic Steve , Neely Pat , Korczyk Dariusz , Thomas Liza , Mollee Peter , Stewart Graeme J. , Gibbs Simon D. J.
Published: December 2022

Amyloidosis is a collection of diseases caused by the misfolding of proteins that aggregate into insoluble amyloid fibrils and deposit in tissues. While these fibrils may aggregate to form insignificant localised deposits, they can also accumulate in multiple organs to the extent that amyloidosis can be an immediately life‐threatening disease, requiring urgent treatment. Recent advances in diagnostic techniques and therapies are dramatically changing the disease landscape and patient prognosis. Delays in diagnosis and treatment remain the greatest challenge, necessitating physician awareness of the common clinical presentations that suggest amyloidosis. The most common types are transthyretin (ATTR) amyloidosis followed by immunoglobulin light‐chain (AL) amyloidosis. While systemic AL amyloidosis was previously considered a death sentence with no effective therapies, significant improvement in patient survival has occurred over the past 2 decades, driven by greater understanding of the disease process, risk‐adapted adoption of myeloma therapies such as proteosome inhibitors (bortezomib) and monoclonal antibodies (daratumumab) and improved supportive care. ATTR amyloidosis is an underdiagnosed cause of heart failure. Technetium scintigraphy has made noninvasive diagnosis much easier, and ATTR is now recognised as the most common type of amyloidosis because of the increased identification of age‐related ATTR. There are emerging ATTR treatments that slow disease progression, decrease patient hospitalisations and improve patient quality of life and survival. This review aims to update physicians on recent developments in amyloidosis diagnosis and management and to provide a diagnostic and treatment framework to improve the management of patients with all forms of amyloidosis.
Why is technocracy persistent in industrial risk? Empirical evidence from an in‐depth case study in Italy
Authors: Crivellari Paolo , Chesta Riccardo Emilio
Published: December 2022

Risk expertise is characterised by procedures that emphasise scientific and technical aspects of risk management and downplay citizens’ concerns and lay knowledge. In this paper, we aim at accounting for some of the reasons why technocracy is persistent in industrial risk expertise. Using the conceptual tools provided by the political sociology of expertise and based on empirical research conducted with mixed qualitative techniques, we study different types of expertise about industrial risk in the petrochemical area of Porto Marghera (Venice, Italy). The first one is performed by the Agenzia Regionale per la Protezione Ambientale del Veneto (ARPAV, Regional Agency of Veneto for Environmental Protection), which is responsible for chemical risk management, and the plants of the area. The second one is performed by the Assemblea permanente contro il pericolo chimico (APCPC, Permanent Assembly Against Industrial Risk), a citizens’ association of the neighbouring community of Marghera. In this case study, we show that technocratic procedures are persistent in industrial risk due to strategic relationships between the public administration in charge of risk regulation enforcement and private chemical companies, the absence of Italian laws on inclusive participatory arenas about industrial risk, and the characteristics of the citizens’ mobilisation, which focuses on plants’ delocalisation rather than challenging the ARPAV's and plants’ technocracy.
Burnout in nursing: A vision of gender and “invisible” unrecorded care
Authors: Montañés Muro Mª Pilar , Ayala Calvo Juan Carlos , Manzano García Guadalupe
Published: December 2022

Aim

To reflect on how characteristics inherent in the nursing profession might be related to burnout syndrome among the nursing collective.

Background

Most people are unaware of the tasks and responsibilities of the nursing profession, as well as the burnout rates suffered by nurses. The nursing profession is a feminized profession, and this feminization may lead to the assignment of gender stereotypes and roles traditionally attributed to women. Much of the care provided by nurses is unrecorded, “invisible” and could be seen as an extension of their role as caregivers.

Methods

This is a discussion paper. The literature on gender stereotypes, unrecorded (invisible) care in nursing and burnout are the argumentative basis of this work.

Discussion

Stereotypes and gender roles may explain the lack of recognition of some of the carework carried out by nurses. Care, which is the essence of the profession, continues to be largely invisible and is not valued. This lack of recognition of invisible care, coupled with gender stereotypes, may help to understand burnout syndrome in nursing.

Impact for Nursing

Health organizations should take into account the history of the nursing profession and the stereotypes associated with it. It is necessary to recognize and make visible much of the care provided by nurses which are not recorded (invisible care), since this would facilitate the visibilization of the workload and could reduce the possibility of suffering burnout. If we want quality care and staff who enjoy the greatest possible well‐being, it will be necessary to take these variables into consideration. One purpose should be: to care for them so that they can provide quality care to others.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This is a discussion paper.
Using machine‐learning methods to identify early‐life predictors of 11‐year language outcome
Authors: Gasparini Loretta , Shepherd Daisy A. , Bavin Edith L. , Eadie Patricia , Reilly Sheena , Morgan Angela T. , Wake Melissa
Published: December 2022

Background

Language is foundational for neurodevelopment and quality of life, but an estimated 10% of children have a language disorder at age 5. Many children shift between classifications of typical and low language if assessed at multiple times in the early years, making it difficult to identify which children will have persisting difficulties and benefit most from support. This study aims to identify a parsimonious set of preschool indicators that predict language outcomes in late childhood, using data from the population‐based Early Language in Victoria Study (n = 839).

Methods

Parents completed surveys about their children at ages 8, 12, 24, and 36 months. At 11 years, children were assessed using the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals 4th Edition (CELF‐4). We used random forests to identify which of the 1990 parent‐reported questions best predict children's 11‐year language outcome (CELF‐4 score ≤81 representing low language) and used SuperLearner to estimate the accuracy of the constrained sets of questions.

Results

At 24 months, seven predictors relating to vocabulary, symbolic play, pragmatics and behavior yielded 73% sensitivity (95% CI: 57, 85) and 77% specificity (95% CI: 74, 80) for predicting low language at 11 years. [Corrections made on 5 May 2023, after first online publication: In the preceding sentence ‘motor skills’ has been corrected to ‘behavior’ in this version.] At 36 months, 7 predictors relating to morphosyntax, vocabulary, parent–child interactions, and parental stress yielded 75% sensitivity (95% CI: 58, 88) and 85% specificity (95% CI: 81, 87). Measures at 8 and 12 months yielded unsatisfactory accuracy.

Conclusions

We identified two short sets of questions that predict language outcomes at age 11 with fair accuracy. Future research should seek to replicate results in a separate cohort.
Preheating of dental composite resins: A scoping review
Authors: Patussi Amanda F. C. , Ramacciato Juliana C. , da Silva João G. R. , Nascimento Victória R. P. , Campos Débora e Silva , de Araújo Ferreira Munizz Isis , de Souza Grace M. , Lima Renally B. W.
Published: December 2022

Objective

The aim of this scoping review was to analyze the available evidence on the preheating process and its effects on physicochemical properties of composite resins.

Materials and Methods

A systematic search was performed in August 2021 using PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science databases and gray literature without language or date restriction. Inclusion criteria were in vitro studies that assessed the physicochemical properties and marginal adaptation of preheated composite. Exclusion criteria were studies with experimental composite, literature reviews, clinical studies. Data from selected studies were qualitatively analyzed.

Results

In total, 104 studies were found from which 39 were included. The most used composite resin was Filtek Z350 XT (3 M/ESPE), preheated at 68°C in a Calset device (AdDent Inc., Danbury, CT, USA) for 5 or 15 min. Most studies showed decreased viscosity, increased conversion degree and microhardness of composite resins, and better marginal adaptation of direct and indirect restorations. Also, flexural strength was not affected, and data about bond strength were inconclusive due to heterogeneity among studies.

Conclusion

The parameters used for preheating composite resins are heterogeneous. Preheating decreased viscosity, increased the conversion degree and microhardness of composite resins, and improved the marginal adaptation of direct and indirect restorations.

Clinical Significance

The analysis of evidence showed a high heterogeneity among preheating protocols. Preheating may benefit the handling and physicochemical properties of composite resins.
From sneaker to bourgeois male: Long‐term observations on recognized tompot blenny Parablennius gattorugine individuals reveal new information on their biology
Authors: Naylor Paul , Naylor Teresa , Hammond Louise , Jacoby David M. P.
Published: December 2022

The behaviour of the tompot blenny Parablennius gattorugine was studied by underwater observation and photography on the south‐west coast of the UK over an 11 year period, with >50 individuals identified at two locations by their distinctive skin markings. Observations showed males engaging in rapid swimming behaviour when approached by a female, and younger males using alternative ‘sneaker’ tactics before becoming ‘bourgeois’ territory‐holders. The noninvasive recognition technique also facilitated detailed observations on territory retention (up to 7 years) and agonistic behaviours among both males and females.
Impact of persistent pain on function, cognition, and well‐being of older adults
Authors: Ritchie Christine Seel , Patel Kanan , Boscardin John , Miaskowski Christine , Vranceanu Ana‐Maria , Whitlock Elizabeth , Smith Alexander
Published: December 2022

Background

We sought to determine the population‐level associations between persistent pain and subsequent changes in physical function, cognitive function, and well‐being, outcomes important to older adults.

Methods

We used data from National Health Aging Trends Study (NHATS) of community‐dwelling Medicare beneficiaries age 65+ from 2011 to 2019. We defined “persistent pain” as being bothered by pain in the last month in both the 2011and 2012 interviews and “intermittent” pain including those reporting bothersome pain in one interview only. We used competing risks regression to estimate the association between persistent pain and the development of clinically meaningful declines in physical function, cognitive function, and well‐being, adjusting for age, sex, race, education, and marital status at baseline.

Results

Of the 5589 eligible NHATS participants, 38.7% reported persistent pain and 27.8% reported intermittent pain. Over one‐third described pain in five or more sites. Over the subsequent 7 years, participants with persistent pain were more likely to experience declines in physical function (64% persistent pain, 59% intermittent pain, 57% no bothersome pain; aHR 1.14, 95% CI 1.05–1.23) and well‐being (48% persistent pain, 45% intermittent pain, 44% no bothersome pain; aHR 1.11, 95% CI 1.01–1.21), but were not more likely to experience cognitive decline (25% persistent pain, 24% intermittent pain, 23% no bothersome pain; aHR 1.02, 95% CI 0.90–1.16).

Conclusions

Persistent pain is common in older adults and occurs in multiple body sites. Persistent pain contributes to meaningful declines in physical function and well‐being over 7 years and warrants proactive interventions to mitigate pain.
Assessing the feasibility of using the ketogenic diet in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Albers Jacob , Kraja Gearta , Eller Danielle , Eck Karen , McBrian Danielle , Bain Jennifer M.
Published: December 2022

Background

Evidence demonstrating efficacy of dietary interventions for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains inconsistent. Recent research on the ketogenic diet (KD) for the treatment of ASD has suggested a benefit. Children with ASD often demonstrate ritualised food‐specific behaviours, taste and texture aversions, and an increased prevalence of food restrictions and allergies. There is a need to investigate how these features contribute to initiation and adherence of the KD. Two surveys were administered to assess the feasibility of utilising the KD for ASD.

Methods

First, paper surveys were given to caregivers of children presenting to outpatient neurology clinics. Next, experienced clinicians were recruited and surveyed online using Qualtrics. Chi‐squared analysis was used to compare ASD and non‐ASD caregiver responses. Descriptive metrics were used to present clinician responses. Responses to each question were evaluated individually.

Results

One hundred and fourteen surveys were collected from caregivers. There were no significant differences in (1) stated feasibility of adopting a new diet, (2) a carbohydrate restricted diet, (3) diet restrictions, (4) documented allergies or (5) personal/cultural restrictions between groups with and without ASD. Seventy clinician responses were collected. The majority (67.4%) indicated that feasibility for a child with ASD to adopt a KD for any reason depends on ASD severity. Some respondents 73% rated adherence to the KD as more difficult compared to age‐matched controls, whereas 26% considered it similar. Multiple familial and child characteristics were rated as increasing the difficulty of successful KD.

Conclusions

The results of the present study suggest that it is feasible for children with ASD to adopt a KD, and success is highly individualised to child and family.
High‐frequency repetitive magnetic stimulation rescues ischemia‐injured neurons through modulation of glial‐derived neurotrophic factor present in the astrocyteʼs secretome
Authors: Gava‐Junior Genilso , Ferreira Susana A. , Roque Cláudio , Mendes‐Oliveira Julieta , Serrenho Inês , Pinto Nuno , Patto Maria Vaz , Baltazar Graça
Published: December 2022

Due to its ability to improve the most frequent clinical sequelae left by ischemia, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation has been considered a promising therapeutic strategy for stroke. Those improvements are associated with changes in neurons and their synaptic liaisons. However, the hypothesis that this technique modulates astrocytes, potentiating their neuroprotective capabilities, was also raised. This study aims to identify the effects triggered by high‐frequency repetitive magnetic stimulation (HF‐rMS) on astrocytes that contribute to its neuroprotective effects. Neuron–glia and astrocyte cortical cultures subject to oxygen and glucose deprivation were used as an in vitro model of ischemia. Neuroprotection promoted by HF‐rMS was evaluated by analysis of markers of neuronal activity and morphometric analysis of neurons. Glial reactivity was determined by immunocytochemistry. The levels of growth factors in the astrocyte‐conditioned medium (CM) were assessed through a Growth Factor Array and glial‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) expression was analyzed by RT‐PCR and Western blot. Our results show that neurons injured by ischemia can be rescued through the modulation of astrocytes by HF‐rMS. This modulation helps to maintain the number and length of neurites and increases the number of neurons expressing ERK1/2 and c‐Fos. Analysis of the astrocyte‐CM showed that HF‐rMS stimulated the release of several trophic factors by astrocytes. Moreover, GDNF was one of the released factors that contributed to the recovery mechanisms triggered by HF‐rMS. Our results show that modulation of astrocytes by HF‐rMS effectively rescues neurons injured by ischemia and suggest that by targeting astrocytes this approach can also be used to promote neuroprotection in other brain lesions.

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Experiences and practices of mothers with children 0–5 age group on fever management: A mixed methods study
Authors: Göbekli Ayşe , Güney Rabiye
Published: December 2022

Aims

To determine fever management experiences and practices of mothers of children between 0 and 5 years of age.

Background

Fever is a common child health challenge known since ancient times. The implications of poor fever management include emotional trauma in parents and the convulsions that might cause neurological sequelae in rare cases. However, even today, mothers' emotional experiences, support needs and psychosocial difficulties during the fever management process at home are not well known.

Design

Convergent parallel mixed methods were used.

Methods

Questionnaire and Parent Fever Management Scale were applied to 170 mothers. 23 mothers were interviewed. ‘Number Cruncher Statistical System’ software and thematic analysis were used for data analysis. STROBE and COREQ checklist were utilized.

Results

The mothers participating in the study reported that they had difficulty controlling their child's fever at home and 87.6% reported that they felt negative emotions during the process. Negative emotions were anxiety (83.3%), fear (67.3%), panic (34.7%), loneliness (14.3%), incompetence (21.3%), anger (0.7%), helplessness and guilt (2.7%). Sixty percent of the mothers stated that they couldn't easily reach a nurse for counselling when their child had a fever at home. In the qualitative part, five themes were identified as ‘meaning attributed to fever, psychosocial dimension of fever, fever management, difficulties in fever management, and fever within the scope of health service delivery’.

Conclusion

Mothers still have difficulties in fever management at home. Nurses can support them with fever management programs either online or via telephone.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Our study shows that fever in children causes emotional problems as well as the burden of care among mothers. Mothers also need psychosocial and physical support during home‐based management of fever.

Patient/Public Contribution

Opinions were obtained from mothers about the qualitative findings and questions that will be included in the questionnaire and interviews.
Geographic distribution, conservation effectiveness, and gaps for national key protected wild plants in China
Authors: Qin Fei , Zhang Xiao‐Xia , Huang Yun‐Feng , Wu Lei , Xu Wei‐Bin , Xue Tian‐Tian , Zhang Wen‐Di , Liu Qin , Yu Jiang‐Hong , Gao Jie‐Jing , Bussmann Rainer W. , Wang Juan , Yu Sheng‐Xiang
Published: December 2022

National key protected wild plants (NKPWPs) are species with important conservation value based on genetics, ecology, culture, and/or scientific research, which are also confronted with serious threats. However, their geographical distribution patterns and conservation status remain unclear. In this study, we compiled 1032 species of NKPWPs. We measured the diversity to identify hotspots of NKPWPs based on species richness, weighted range size rarity and a complementarity‐based analysis. Comparing the distribution and hotspots of NKPWPs with the coverage of Chinese nature reserves (NRs), we assessed conservation effectiveness and identified conservation gaps. The results identified 13 diversity hotspots; only 9.5% of them were covered by NRs with >30% of the grid cell area, and even 19.5% were not covered at all by NRs. Overall, 44.7% of NKPWPs were effectively protected by national NRs. Despite this success, 571 species in Yunnan, Guizhou, Sichuan, Chongqing, Guangxi, Guangdong, southern Hainan, Taiwan, and northern Xinjiang remain unprotected by NRs. The protected proportion of plants with first‐level protection was lower than that of plants with second‐level protection. The low overall proportion of protected hotspots indicates that the conservation outlook for NKPWPs is not optimistic. This study identifies priority conservation areas and conservation gaps and provides a scientific reference for the conservation of wild plants in China.
Is the Catholic Church in America Experiencing Internal Secularization? Priests’ Assessments of Pope Francis and the Condition of the Church
Authors: Vermurlen Brad , Regnerus Mark , Cranney Stephen
Published: December 2022

This study addressed internal secularization in the Catholic Church by testing the role of several factors in priests’ assessments of the state of the Church in the United States, priests’ views of whether the Church's situation is getting better or worse, and their attitudes toward Pope Francis. Comparisons with identical questions fielded in 2002 revealed a striking pessimistic turn among priests over the last two decades. In addition, regression analyses using the 2021 Survey of American Catholic Priests revealed that “in‐house” factors—namely, attitudes toward Pope Francis and perceptions of how well bishops have restored confidence in the Catholic Church following the sexual abuse crisis—most powerfully predicted priests’ current pessimism. On top of this, politically conservative priests and priests ordained more recently tended to be most critical of how Francis is handling his duties, signaling a pronounced tension inside the Catholic Church over religious authority, a defining feature of internal secularization.
Examination of the pharmacokinetics and differential inhibition of cyclooxygenase isoenzymes in New Zealand white rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) by the Non‐Steroidal anti‐inflammatory Robenacoxib
Authors: Jeffrey Alison , Gardhouse Sara , Kleinhenz Michael , Hocker Samuel E. , Weeder Mikaela , Montgomery Shawnee R. , Zhang Yuntao , Porting Anna , Rooney Tess
Published: December 2022

Effective rabbit analgesia is challenging, and there are few studies available on the newer COX‐2 selective NSAIDs, such as robenacoxib. This study aimed to establish the pharmacokinetics of oral and subcutaneous robenacoxib, describe its inhibitory actions on COX enzymes, and develop dosing, using six healthy New Zealand white rabbits. Pharmacokinetics were determined from plasma concentrations after oral administration of robenacoxib (0.83–0.96 mg/kg) and also after subcutaneous administration (2 mg/kg). The inhibitory actions of robenacoxib were evaluated by measuring plasma concentrations of thromboxane B2 (TBX2) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) as surrogate markers of cyclooxygenase enzyme isoform inhibition. The mean maximum concentration for oral and subcutaneous administration was 0.23 μg/ml and 5.82 μg/ml, respectively. Oral robenacoxib administration did not demonstrate a significant difference between any time point for PGE2 or TBX2, though subcutaneous administration did for both. There was no significant difference in PGE2 or TBX2 concentrations at any time point when comparing subcutaneous versus oral routes. Although the results support that plasma robenacoxib exceeds the therapeutic levels compared to dogs and cats, there was little significance in the difference in the changes associated with COX‐1 and COX‐2 inhibition. Further studies are warranted to determine appropriate dosing, safety, and efficacy in rabbits.
Effect of intravesical tarantula cubensis extract (Theranekron) on inflammation in an interstitial cystitis rat model
Authors: Akdağ Abdullah , Yenisey Çiğdem , Epikmen Tuğrul E. , Ateş Erhan
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To reveal the histopathological and immunological outcomes of intravesical treatment with tarantula cubensis extract (TCE) in a rat model of interstitial cystitis.

Methods

A total of 30 female Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups: group 1 (control group), group 2 (disease group), and group 3 (treatment group). The rat model of interstitial cystitis was created by biweekly intraperitoneal administration of cyclophosphamide (CYP). In group 3, TCE (a venom extracted from a brown spider known as tarantula cubensis) was administered intravesically after the model had been created. Urothelial degeneration, necrosis, ulcer, bleeding, edema, inflammation and mast cell count, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐alpha), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and hydroxyproline parameters were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using one‐way analysis of variance, chi‐square tests, and Kruskal–Wallis tests.

Results

All parameters were found to be lower in the rats in group 1 than in the other groups, and IL‐6 and MPO values were found to be higher in group 2 (p < .001). The mean TNF‐alpha value was highest in group 2 (p = .078). No difference was found between all groups regarding ulcer (p = .087). Urothelial degeneration, necrosis, edema, inflammation, hemorrhage and fibroblast proliferations, and hydroxyproline values were higher in group 3 (p < .001).

Conclusions

Intravesical TCE instillation produces an anti‐inflammatory effect by reducing the levels of inflammatory parameters such as IL‐6, TNF‐alpha, and MPO in bladder tissue. It also accelerates tissue healing by increasing hydroxyproline and fibroblast proliferation.
Whole genome resequencing identifies local adaptation associated with environmental variation for redband trout
Authors: Andrews Kimberly R. , Seaborn Travis , Egan Joshua P. , Fagnan Matthew W. , New Daniel D. , Chen Zhongqi , Hohenlohe Paul A. , Waits Lisette P. , Caudill Christopher C. , Narum Shawn R.
Published: December 2022

Aquatic ectotherms are predicted to harbour genomic signals of local adaptation resulting from selective pressures driven by the strong influence of climate conditions on body temperature. We investigated local adaptation in redband trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri) using genome scans for 547 samples from 11 populations across a wide range of habitats and thermal gradients in the interior Columbia River. We estimated allele frequencies for millions of single nucleotide polymorphism loci (SNPs) across populations using low‐coverage whole genome resequencing, and used population structure outlier analyses to identify genomic regions under divergent selection between populations. Twelve genomic regions showed signatures of local adaptation, including two regions associated with genes known to influence migration and developmental timing in salmonids (GREB1L, ROCK1, SIX6). Genotype–environment association analyses indicated that diurnal temperature variation was a strong driver of local adaptation, with signatures of selection driven primarily by divergence of two populations in the northern extreme of the subspecies range. We also found evidence for adaptive differences between high‐elevation desert vs. montane habitats at a smaller geographical scale. Finally, we estimated vulnerability of redband trout to future climate change using ecological niche modelling and genetic offset analyses under two climate change scenarios. These analyses predicted substantial habitat loss and strong genetic shifts necessary for adaptation to future habitats, with the greatest vulnerability predicted for high‐elevation desert populations. Our results provide new insight into the complexity of local adaptation in salmonids, and important predictions regarding future responses of redband trout to climate change.
Sunspot activity influences tree growth: Molecular evidence and ecological implications
Authors: Molina‐Montenegro Marco A. , Egas Claudia , Ballesteros Gabriel , Acuña‐Rodríguez Ian S. , San Martín Filoromo , Gianoli Ernesto
Published: December 2022

Solar activity has a significant influence on Earth's climate and may drive many biological processes. Here, we measured growth in 11 tree species distributed along an ≈600‐km latitudinal gradient in South‐Central Chile, recording the width of their growth‐rings among periods of maximum (highest number of sunspots) and minimum (lowest number of sunspots) solar activity. In one of these species, Quillaja saponaria, we experimentally assessed three ecophysiological traits (CO2 fixation through photosynthesis [Amax], growth and leaf production) as well as the expression of five genes related to cell wall elongation and expansion following exposure to high and low levels of UV‐B radiation, simulating scenarios of maximum and minimum solar activity, respectively. We found lower tree growth during the periods of maximum solar activity, with this trend being more evident at lower latitudes, where UV‐B radiation is higher. Exposure of Q. saponaria to higher levels of UV‐B affected the ecophysiological parameters, revealing a decrease in Amax, growth and leaf production. In addition, higher levels of UV‐B led to repression in four of the five genes studied. Our results may help foresee environmental scenarios for different plant species associated with solar activity.
The leucine‐responsive regulatory protein SCAB_Lrp modulates thaxtomin biosynthesis, pathogenicity, and morphological development in Streptomyces scabies
Authors: Liu Jing , Wang Yunxia , He Haoyang , Dong Shengnan , Tang Lijuan , Yang Endong , Wang Weiyun , Zhang Buchang
Published: December 2022

Streptomyces scabies is the best‐characterized plant‐pathogenic streptomycete, which is a special species among the large genus Streptomyces. The pathogenicity of S. scabies relies on the production of the secondary metabolite thaxtomin A. Little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of thaxtomin biosynthesis in S. scabies beyond the pathway‐specific activator TxtR and the cellulose utilization repressor CebR. The leucine‐responsive regulatory protein (Lrp) family modulates secondary metabolism in nonpathogenic streptomycetes. However, the regulatory relationship between the Lrp and pathogenic streptomycetes remains unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that SCAB_Lrp (SCAB_77931) from S. scabies significantly affects thaxtomin biosynthesis, pathogenicity, and morphological development. SCAB_Lrp deletion resulted in a dramatic decline in thaxtomin A production and a low‐virulence phenotype of S. scabies. An in‐depth dissection of the regulatory mechanism of SCAB_Lrp revealed that it positively regulates the transcription of the thaxtomin biosynthetic gene cluster by directly binding to the promoter of the cluster‐situated regulator gene txtR. SCAB_Lrp also controls the morphological development of S. scabies by directly activating the transcription of amfC, whiB, and ssgB. SCAB_Lrp directly controls the transcription of its own gene by binding a specific sequence (5′‐GGACAGTCGCCGTGCTACG‐3′). Moreover, phenylalanine and methionine have been characterized as SCAB_Lrp effectors by strengthening the binding affinity and complex status between SCAB_Lrp and DNA. Our findings characterize a multifunctional regulatory protein, SCAB_Lrp, that controls secondary metabolism, pathogenicity, and sporulation in S. scabies and provide new insights into the complex regulatory network that modulates thaxtomin phytotoxins in pathogenic Streptomyces.
Multiscale microscopy to decipher plant cell structure and dynamics
Authors: Cui Yaning , Zhang Xi , Li Xiaojuan , Lin Jinxing
Published: December 2022

New imaging methodologies with high contrast and molecular specificity allow researchers to analyze dynamic processes in plant cells at multiple scales, from single protein and RNA molecules to organelles and cells, to whole organs and tissues. These techniques produce informative images and quantitative data on molecular dynamics to address questions that cannot be answered by conventional biochemical assays. Here, we review selected microscopy techniques, focusing on their basic principles and applications in plant science, discussing the pros and cons of each technique, and introducing methods for quantitative analysis. This review thus provides guidance for plant scientists in selecting the most appropriate techniques to decipher structures and dynamic processes at different levels, from protein dynamics to morphogenesis.
New insights into the origin of buckwheat cultivation in southwestern China from pollen data
Authors: Yao Yi‐Feng , Song Xiao‐Yan , Xie Gan , Tang Ye‐Na , Wortley Alexandra H. , Qin Feng , Blackmore Stephen , Li Cheng‐Sen , Wang Yu‐Fei
Published: December 2022

Buckwheat is an important crop which originated in China and spread widely across Eurasia. However, exactly where in China domestication took place remains controversial. Archaeological and palynological records suggest a longer cultivation history of buckwheat in northern China than in southwestern China, but this conflicts with phylogenetic evidence implicating southwestern China as the centre of origin and diversity of buckwheat.

We investigate alternative methodologies for inferring the occurrence of buckwheat cultivation and suggest that relative abundance could provide a reliable measure for distinguishing between wild and cultivated buckwheat in both present‐day and fossil samples.

Approximately 12 800‐yr palaeoecological record shows that Fagopyrum pollen occurred only infrequently before the early Holocene. As southwestern China entered the early agricultural period, c. 8000–7000 yr ago, a slight increase in abundance of Fagopyrum pollen was observed. Approximately 4000 yr ago, concurrent with the Pu minority beginning to develop dry‐land agriculture, the abundance of Fagopyrum pollen increased significantly, suggesting the cultivation of this crop. Fagopyrum pollen rose to a maximum value c. 1270 yr ago, suggesting an intensification of agricultural activity.

These findings fill a gap in the Fagopyrum pollen record in southwestern China and provide new indications that early cultivation may have occurred in this region.
Breeding and adoption of biofortified crops and their nutritional impact on human health
Authors: Kumar Sachin , DePauw Ron M. , Kumar Sudhir , Kumar Jitendra , Kumar Sourabh , Pandey Madhav P.
Published: December 2022

Micronutrient malnutrition has affected over two billion people worldwide and continues to be a health risk. A growing human population, poverty, and the prevalence of low dietary diversity are jointly responsible for malnutrition, particularly in developing nations. Inadequate bioavailability of key micronutrients, such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and vitamin A, can be improved through agronomic and/or genetic interventions. The Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research prioritizes developing biofortified food crops that are rich in minerals and vitamins through the HarvestPlus initiative on biofortification. The objective of this review is to provide an overview of biofortified food crops along with evidence supporting their acceptability and adoption. Between 2004 and 2019, 242 biofortified varieties belonging to 11 major crops were released in 30 countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. These conventionally bred biofortified crops include Fe‐enriched beans, pearl millet, and cowpea; Zn‐enriched rice, wheat, and maize; both Fe‐ and Zn‐enriched lentil and sorghum; and varieties with improved vitamin A in orange‐fleshed sweet potato, maize, cassava, and banana/plantain. In addition to ongoing efforts, breeding innovations, such as speed breeding and CRISPR‐based gene editing technologies, will be necessary for the next decade to reach two billion people with biofortified crops.
Long‐Term Clinical and Imaging Results of Oblique Lateral Interbody Fusion for Degenerative Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ma Huan , Zhang Fanyi , Ying Qijie , Pan Baoze , Li Yuting , Ge Hongping , Cao Yu , Jiang Tingfei , Dai Meifen , Ji Conghua
Published: December 2022

The efficacies and safety of oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS) remains controversial, and long‐term clinical efficacies in particular need to be explored. This study is designed accordingly, therefore, we searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, OVID, and SinoMed for literature, regardless of publication date or language. Taking 12 months after operation as the shortest limit, the outcome measures were extracted, including visual analog scale (VAS), Oswetry dysfunction index (ODI), Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, intervertebral disk height (IDH), foraminal height (FH), lumbar lordosis (LL), segment lordosis (SL), slip ratio, and incidence of surgical complications. Meta‐analysis was performed by RevMan 5.4 and Stata 16.0, and results were expressed with MD and 95% CI, and two‐sided p‐values with p < 0.05 being statistically significant. In total, 17 clinical studies (n = 689 patients) were screened, with an average patient age of 63.4 years. Our study revealed that VAS decreased by 4.55 (low back pain) and 5.46 (leg pain) points, respectively. And ODI score decreased by an average of 33.82% while JOA score increased by an average of 11.56 points. In terms of imaging indicators, mean IDH and FH increased by 4.18 and 4.91 mm, mean LL and SL improved by 9.22° and 2.46°, respectively. Besides, mean slip ratio decreased by 10.45%. The incidence of complications was statistically analyzed in 18 studies, with a rate of 4%–54% and an overall incidence of 19%. To sum up, our study was the first to focus on the long‐term efficacies of OLIF treatment for DLS, and to provide further clinical evidence. However, long‐term follow‐up multicenter randomized controlled trials are still needed for further evaluation.
Metamorphism as the cause of bone alteration in the Jarrow assemblage (Langsettian, Pennsylvanian) of Ireland
Authors: Gogáin Aodhán Ó , O'Sullivan Gary , Clements Thomas , Hoare Brendan C. , Murray John , Wyse Jackson Patrick N.
Published: December 2022

The Jarrow assemblage is a Lagerstätte of Pennsylvanian tetrapods and fish preserved in the Leinster Coalfield, Ireland. Fossils from this site have an interesting taphonomy that is not observed in other Pennsylvanian coal swamp assemblages. Jarrow tetrapod bone material has undergone alteration and eventual coalification, causing specimens to become poorly defined from the surrounding coal matrix. Bone alteration at Jarrow has traditionally been linked to early diagenesis. A multi‐analytical approach, combining x‐ray scanning electron microscopy, cathodoluminescence, micro computed tomography and laser ablation quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, was used to investigate the origin of alteration within the Jarrow fossil specimens. Original bone morphology is no longer present, being replaced by bituminous material and sphalerite surrounded by tabular apatite (a morphology atypical of bone apatite). Direct U–Pb dating of this recrystallized apatite provides an age of 302.03 ± 11.38 Ma. In this recrystallized apatite, core‐to‐rim variation in halogen elements, variably positive and negative Eu‐anomalies and depletion in light rare earth elements (REEs) suggest an influence of hydrothermal fluids sourced during the maturation of the Leinster Coalfield. A new taphonomic model for the Jarrow assemblage is proposed: alteration of primary fossil bone occurred primarily due to burial heating of the Leinster Coalfield caused by Variscan deformation. Bone apatite was dissolved and subsequently recrystalized as tabular crystals, probably concurrent with mineralization of sphalerite and during coalification, giving the Jarrow assemblage fossils their unique appearance.
Integration of reactive oxygen species and nutrient signalling to shape root system architecture
Authors: Tarkowski Łukasz P. , Signorelli Santiago , Considine Michael J. , Montrichard Françoise
Published: December 2022

Yield losses due to nutrient deficiency are estimated as the primary cause of the yield gap worldwide. Understanding how plant roots perceive external nutrient status and elaborate morphological adaptations in response to it is necessary to develop reliable strategies to increase crop yield. In the last decade, reactive oxygen species (ROS) were shown to be key players of the mechanisms underlying root responses to nutrient limitation. ROS contribute in multiple ways to shape the root system in response to nutritional cues, both as direct effectors acting on cell wall architecture and as second messengers in signalling pathways. Here, we review the mutual interconnections existing between perception and signalling of the most common forms of the major macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium), and ROS in shaping plant root system architecture. We discuss recent advances in dissecting the integration of these elements and their impact on morphological traits of the root system, highlighting the functional ductility of ROS and enzymes implied in ROS metabolism, such as class III peroxidases.
High‐throughput identification of novel heat tolerance genes via genome‐wide pooled mutant screens in the model green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Mattoon Erin M. , McHargue William E. , Bailey Catherine E. , Zhang Ningning , Chen Chen , Eckhardt James , Daum Chris G. , Zane Matt , Pennacchio Christa , Schmutz Jeremy , O'Malley Ronan C. , Cheng Jianlin , Zhang Ru
Published: December 2022

Different high temperatures adversely affect crop and algal yields with various responses in photosynthetic cells. The list of genes required for thermotolerance remains elusive. Additionally, it is unclear how carbon source availability affects heat responses in plants and algae. We utilized the insertional, indexed, genome‐saturating mutant library of the unicellular, eukaryotic green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to perform genome‐wide, quantitative, pooled screens under moderate (35°C) or acute (40°C) high temperatures with or without organic carbon sources. We identified heat‐sensitive mutants based on quantitative growth rates and identified putative heat tolerance genes (HTGs). By triangulating HTGs with heat‐induced transcripts or proteins in wildtype cultures and MapMan functional annotations, we presented a high/medium‐confidence list of 933 Chlamydomonas genes with putative roles in heat tolerance. Triangulated HTGs include those with known thermotolerance roles and novel genes with little or no functional annotation. About 50% of these high‐confidence HTGs in Chlamydomonas have orthologs in green lineage organisms, including crop species. Arabidopsis thaliana mutants deficient in the ortholog of a high‐confidence Chlamydomonas HTG were also heat sensitive. This work expands our knowledge of heat responses in photosynthetic cells and provides engineering targets to improve thermotolerance in algae and crops.
The hot science in rice research: How rice plants cope with heat stress
Authors: Li Jin‐Yu , Yang Chuang , Xu Jiming , Lu Hai‐Ping , Liu Jian‐Xiang
Published: December 2022

Global climate change has great impacts on plant growth and development, reducing crop productivity worldwide. Rice (Oryza sativa L.), one of the world's most important food crops, is susceptible to high‐temperature stress from seedling stage to reproductive stage. In this review, we summarize recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying heat stress responses in rice, including heat sensing and signalling, transcriptional regulation, transcript processing, protein translation, and post‐translational regulation. We also highlight the irreversible effects of high temperature on reproduction and grain quality in rice. Finally, we discuss challenges and opportunities for future research on heat stress responses in rice.