bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can masticatory performance be predicted by using food acceptance questionnaire in elderly patients with removable dentures?
Authors: Suwanarpa Ketsupha , Hasegawa Yoko , Salazar Simonne , Kikuchi Satsuki , Yoshimoto Tasuku , Paphangkorakit Jarin , Hori Kazuhiro , Ono Takahiro
Published: January 2021

Background

Although a food acceptance questionnaire is useful for subjective masticatory function assessments, its characteristics and limitations when applied to patients with removable dentures have been unclear. We therefore assessed the relationship between the subjective and objective masticatory function and explored whether or not a decreased masticatory function could be evaluated by food acceptance questionnaire.

Methods

One hundred and nineteen patients >60 years old with removable partial and/or complete dentures participated. Food acceptance score (FAS) was calculated by using Sato's questionnaire with 20 food items. Masticatory performance (MP) was assessed by a visual scoring method using a test gummy jelly (UHA Mikakuto). Simple/multiple regression analyses were performed to explain the objective masticatory function. The cut‐off value of FAS was determined to predict a decreased masticatory function by sensitivity, specificity and receiver operating characteristics curve.

Results

No significant gender differences in MP or FAS were noted. Although both MP and FAS increased with the number of functional teeth, FAS was not significantly affected by age. The number of functional teeth, FAS and age had significant correlations with MP, with the number of functional teeth showing the strongest correlation. Multiple linear regression analyses identified the FAS as a significant explanatory variable for MP, and 70 was the optimal cut‐off value for detecting a decreased masticatory function (MP score ≤ 2) in the diagnosis of ‘oral hypofunction’.

Conclusions

Using FAS to assess the MP was deemed appropriate, and a score of 70 was the optimal cut‐off value for detecting a decreased masticatory function.
The Circumplex of Personality Metatraits and the HEXACO model: Toward refinement and integration
Authors: Strus Włodzimierz , Cieciuch Jan
Published: January 2021

Objective

There is a considerable body of evidence from the last 20 years, indicating the need for the reconceptualization of the highest level of the personality structure that the Big Five/Five‐Factor Model (FFM) was assumed to occupy. The main goal of the presented study was to test the relationships between two models that have been developed in this respect: The Circumplex of Personality Metatraits (CPM), based on the higher‐order factors of the Big Five, and the HEXACO model including a sixth basic personality dimension (Honesty‐Humility).

Method

The sample consisted of 500 respondents (56.8% females; Mage = 31.9, SDage = 14.0), all of whom completed the CPM, HEXACO, and FFM measures.

Results

The results corroborated the expectation that the HEXACO model can be coherently located within the CPM model, despite the latter is rooted in the FFM research tradition. However, this substantial integration has been made possible by a relatively slight but crucial modification of the CPM, already suggested by previous research.

Conclusion

After the modification, which concerned the location of the Neuroticism/Emotional stability trait, the CPM enables a comprehensive integration of major models of personality structure encompassing the Two‐Factor Model, the FFM, and the HEXACO.
The Importance of Pedagogical and Social School Climate to Bullying: A Cross‐Sectional Multilevel Study of 94 Swedish Schools
Authors: Hultin Hanna , Ferrer‐Wreder Laura , Engström Karin , Andersson Filip , Galanti Maria Rosaria
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Bullying is a public health issue with long‐term effects for victims. This study investigated if there was an association between pedagogical and social school climate and student‐reported bullying victimization, which dimensions of pedagogical and social school climate were associated with bullying, and if these associations were modified by individual‐level social factors.

METHODS

The study had a cross‐sectional multilevel design with individual‐level data on bullying from 3311 students nested in 94 schools over 3 consecutive school years. School climate was measured with student and teacher questionnaires, aggregated at the school level. The association between school climate and bullying victimization was estimated with multilevel mixed‐model logistic regression.

RESULTS

In schools with the most favorable school climate, fewer students reported being bullied. This was especially evident when school climate was measured with the student instrument. Students in schools with favorable climate had an adjusted odds ratio of bullying of 0.74 (95% CI: 0.55‐1.00) compared to students in schools with the worst climate. Results from the teacher instrument were in the same direction, but less consistent.

CONCLUSIONS

Improvement in school climate has the potential to affect students both academically, and socially, as well as decrease the prevalence of bullying.
Hyperbolic discounting and the time‐consistent solution of three canonical environmental problems
Authors: Strulik Holger
Published: January 2021

In this paper I propose a time‐consistent method of discounting hyperbolically and apply it to three canonical environmental problems: (i) optimal renewable resource use, (ii) the tragedy of the commons, and (iii) economic growth and pollution. I show that, irrespective of potentially high initial discount rates, time‐consistent hyperbolic discounting leads always to a steady state of maximum yield, or, if the environment enters the utility function, a steady state where the Green Golden Rule applies. While (asymptotic) extinction is a real threat under exponential discounting it is impossible under time‐consistent hyperbolic discounting. This result is also confirmed for open‐access resources. In a model of economic growth and pollution, hyperbolic discounting establishes the Golden Rule of capital accumulation and the modified Green Golden Rule.
Melatonin protects inner retinal neurons of newborn mice after hypoxia‐ischemia
Authors: Huang Rong , Xu Yue , Lu Xi , Tang Xiaoyu , Lin Jianqiang , Cui Kaixuan , Yu Shanshan , Shi Yuxun , Ye Dan , Liu Yizhi , Liang Xiaoling
Published: January 2021

Retinopathy of prematurity is a vision‐threatening disease associated with retinal hypoxia‐ischemia, leading to the death of retinal neurons and chronic neuronal degeneration. During this study, we used the oxygen‐induced retinopathy mice model to mimic retinal hypoxia‐ischemia phenotypes to investigate further the neuroprotective effect of melatonin on neonatal retinal neurons. Melatonin helped maintain relatively normal inner retinal architecture and thickness and preserve inner retinal neuron populations in avascular areas by rescuing retinal ganglion and bipolar cells, and horizontal and amacrine neurons, from apoptosis. Meanwhile, melatonin recovered visual dysfunction, as reflected by the improved amplitudes and implicit times of a‐wave, b‐wave, and oscillatory potentials. Additionally, elevated cleaved caspase‐3 and Bax protein levels and reduced Bcl‐2 protein levels in response to hypoxia‐ischemia were diminished after melatonin treatment. Moreover, melatonin increased BDNF and downstream phospho‐TrkB/Akt/ERK/CREB levels. ANA‐12, a TrkB receptor antagonist, antagonized these melatonin actions and reduced melatonin‐induced neuroprotection. Furthermore, melatonin rescued the reduction in melatonin receptor expression. This study suggests that melatonin exerted anti‐apoptotic and neuroprotective effects in inner retinal neurons after hypoxia‐ischemia, at least partly due to modulation of the BDNF‐TrkB pathway.
Building Novel Supply Chain Theory Using “Metaphorical Imagination”
Authors: Stephens Victoria , Matthews Lee , Cornelissen Joep P. , Rowlands Hefin
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we explore how supply chain theorists can engage with metaphorical imagination to develop supply chain theory. Our main purpose was to provide additional useful guidance on how scholars can approach the method of metaphoric transfer. To do this, we build on previous work on the metaphoric transfer method and develop the Metaphoric Transfer Pathways framework. The framework offers two novel approaches to working with metaphors that will help theorists to best leverage the theorizing potential of metaphors in their work. We also develop a set of evaluation criteria which can help scholars to choose which approach to metaphoric transfer to adopt and to maximize the productivity of metaphors used within their theorizing efforts. Our paper synthesizes the existing literature on metaphorical imagination in a novel way to provide accessible guidance for those looking to work with metaphor and to maximize their contribution toward developing novel supply chain theory.
Targeted sequencing supports morphology and embryo features in resolving the classification of Cyperaceae tribe Fuireneae s.l.
Authors: Starr Julian R. , Jiménez‐Mejías Pedro , Zuntini Alexandre R. , Léveillé‐Bourret Étienne , Semmouri Ilias , Muasya Muthama , Baker William J. , Brewer Grace E. , Epitawalage Niroshini , Fairlie Isabel , Forest Félix , Sabino Kikuchi Izai A. B. , Pokorny Lisa , Larridon Isabel
Published: January 2021

Molecular phylogenetic studies based on Sanger sequences have shown that Cyperaceae tribe Fuireneae s.l. is paraphyletic. However, taxonomic sampling in these studies has been poor, topologies have been inconsistent, and support for the backbone of trees has been weak. Moreover, uncertainty still surrounds the morphological limits ofSchoenoplectiella, a genus of mainly small, amphicarpic annuals that was recently segregated fromSchoenoplectus. Consequently, despite ample evidence from molecular analyses that Fuireneae s.l. might consist of two to four tribal lineages, no taxonomic changes have yet been made. Here, we use the Angiosperms353 enrichment panel for targeted sequencing to (i) clarify the relationships of Fuireneae s.l. with the related tribes Abildgaardieae, Eleocharideae, and Cypereae; (ii) define the limits of Fuireneae s.s., and (iii) test the monophyly of Fuireneae s.l. genera with emphasis onSchoenoplectusandSchoenoplectiella. Using more than a third of Fuireneae s.l. diversity, our phylogenomic analyses strongly support six genera and four major Fuireneae s.l. clades that we recognize as tribes: Bolboschoeneae stat.nov., Fuireneae s.s., Schoenoplecteae, and Pseudoschoeneae tr. nov. These results are consistent with morphological, micromorphological (nutlet epidermal cell shape), and embryo differences detected for each tribe. At the generic level, most sub‐Saharan African perennials currently treated inSchoenoplectusare transferred toSchoenoplectiella. Our targeted sequencing results show that these species are nested inSchoenoplectiella, and their treatment here is consistent with micromorphological and embryo characters shared by allSchoenoplectiellaspecies. Keys to recognized tribes and genera are provided.
Integrative taxonomy of herbaceous plants with narrow fragmented distributions: A case study on Primula merrilliana species complex
Authors: He Xiao , Cao Jing‐Jing , Zhang Wei , Li Yong‐Quan , Zhang Chao , Li Xiao‐Hong , Xia Guo‐Hua , Shao Jian‐Wen
Published: January 2021

An accurate understanding of species diversity is essential to studies across a wide range of biological subdisciplines. However, species delimitation remains challenging in evolutionary radiations, particularly in those herbaceous plants associated with microendemic, naturally fragmented distribution systems, where genotypic and phenotypic traits likely evolved discordantly. The Primula merrilliana complex, which is endemic to eastern China and has high horticultural value, used to be treated as one species but several clues suggested it might be composed of multiple species. Here we used multiple lines of evidence, including molecular, morphological, reproductive isolation, and geographic data, to assess independently evolving lineages within this complex. Our results indicated that the species diversity in the complex was underestimated previously, and four species (independently evolving lineages) can be recognized, including two new species described here. The extensive variation of the breeding system, especially the floral morph transition from distyled (outcrossing) to homostyled (selfing) multiple times, possibly promoted the rapid speciation within such a small geographic scale. This study case indicated that the phenomenon of genetically highly divergent but morphologically indistinguishable is perhaps shown in herbs with fragmented distributions; the alternative extreme evolutionary phenomenon, in which complete reproductive barriers have been accumulated but with little genetic differentiation, also exists. Thus we highlight the importance of incorporating other characters, such as postzygotic reproductive isolation and geographic data, with commonly used molecular and morphological traits to infer species boundaries through an integrative taxonomic approach in such systems.
Recent advances in microencapsulation of drugs for veterinary applications
Authors: Ahmad Salah Uddin , Li Bing , Sun Jichao , Arbab Safia , Dong Zhen , Cheng Fusheng , Zhou Xuzheng , Mahfuz Shad , Zhang Jiyu
Published: January 2021

Microencapsulation is a process where very minute droplets or particles of solid or liquid or gas are trapped with a polymer to isolate the internal core material from external environmental hazards. Microencapsulation is applied mostly for flavor masking, fortification, and sustained and control release. It improves palatability, absorption, and bioavailability of drugs with good conformity. Microencapsulation has been widely studied in numerous drug delivery systems for human health. The application of microcapsules in the veterinary pharmaceutical sciences is increasing day by day. The treatment systems for humans and animals are likely to be similar, but more complex in the veterinary field due to the diversity of the species, breeds, body size, biotransformation rate, and other factors associated with animal physiology. Commercially viable, economically profitable, and therapeutically effective microencapsulated vaccine, anthelmintic, antibacterial, and other therapeutics have a great demand for livestock and poultry production. Nowadays, researchers emphasize the controlled and sustained‐release dosage form of drugs in the veterinary field. This paper has highlighted the microencapsulation materials, preparation techniques, characteristics, roles, and the application of microcapsules in veterinary medicine.
Morbidity, risk of cancer and mortality in 3645 HFE mutations carriers
Authors: Hagström Hannes , Ndegwa Nelson , Jalmeus Molly , Ekstedt Mattias , Posserud Iris , Rorsman Fredrik , Nyhlin Nils , Klintman Daniel , Werner Mårten , Marschall Hanns‐Ulrich , Askling Johan , Stål Per ,   the Swedish Hepatology Study Group (SweHep)
Published: January 2021

Background & Aims

Mutations in the HFE gene can lead to hereditary haemochromatosis (HH) and have been suggested to increase the risk of extra‐hepatic diseases, especially breast and colorectal cancer. Here we investigated long‐term outcomes of Swedish patients with HFE mutations.

Methods

We identified 3645 patients with a homozygous p.C282Y (62%) or a compound heterozygous p.C282Y/p.H63D (38%) mutation from eight centres in Sweden between 1997 and 2017. These were matched 1:10 by age, sex and county of residence to reference individuals from the general population. We ascertained incident outcomes until the end of 2017 by linkage to national registers. Studied outcomes were HH, cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), breast cancer (in women), colorectal cancer, type 1 and 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism, Parkinson’s disease and mortality. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate hazard ratios for these outcomes.

Results

Median age at diagnosis was 52 years, 44% were females. During a mean follow‐up of 7.9 years, we found an increased risk for HCC, HH, cirrhosis, type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis and death. Excess mortality was only seen in men. No increased risk was seen for colorectal or breast cancer. Liver‐related outcomes were rare, with a cumulative incidence of <1%.

Conclusions

Individuals found to be HFE mutation carriers in a university hospital setting had an increased risk for mortality in men, along with increased risks of cirrhosis, HCC, diabetes type 2, and osteoarthritis. In general, the absolute risk for adverse outcomes was low and no increased risk for colon or breast cancer was observed.
Particularising 'experiences': Naming whiteness in the academy
Authors: Cavanagh Alice , Jabbar Amina , Vanstone Meredith
Published: January 2021

Prompted by Varpio et al.'s exploration of sex‐related experiences in medical education, Cavanagh et al. intertwine race‐based ideology to offer an intersectional lens on the problem.
Transforming existing norms for payment and legitimacy of ‘teaching work’ in medical education
Authors: Park Sophie E. , Alberti Hugh , Barber John R. G.
Published: January 2021

Attributing value to teaching work has been problematic, but here Park et al. offer holistic reframing as a potential solution.
Assessment tools in pre‐licensure interprofessional education: A systematic review, quality appraisal and narrative synthesis
Authors: Almoghirah Hailah , Nazar Hamde , Illing Jan
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Interprofessional education (IPE) aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop and demonstrate the team working behaviours and skills that will lead to positive patient outcomes. This systematic review aims to identify and critically appraise the assessment tools used after a pre‐licensure IPE intervention and provide guidance on which tool to use according to the focus of the intervention.

Methods

In July 2019, the following electronic databases were searched: MEDLINE, ERIC, CINHAL, EMBASE and NEXUS website. All studies involving pre‐licensure health care students exposed to an IPE intervention and undertook an assessment measuring student knowledge, skills, behaviour, or change in organisational practice or a benefit to patients were included. Studies that used tools relying on self‐assessment only were excluded. Constructive alignment of the IPE intervention with the assessment was evaluated and quality assessment of the studies and critical appraisal of the validity evidence for the tools was undertaken.

Results

From 9502 returned studies, 39 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. These were rated as good in terms of methodological quality. Acquisition of knowledge was the most commonly assessed outcome, mainly with pre/post knowledge tests, followed by behaviour change, which was measured by a range of validated tools. Patient benefit was defined as change in clinical effectiveness, patient safety or patient satisfaction. Constructive alignment of the IPE aim with the assessment was limited due to issues with study reporting. Tools measuring behaviour change demonstrate mixed adherence to quality standards around reliability, validity and scales and scoring.

Conclusions

Various methods have been used to identify change following IPE; however, choosing the most appropriate tool to support and align with the aim of the IPE intervention is crucial. We have critically appraised the available tools and offered an indication of their quality. This has informed the production of a decision aid to support the selection of the appropriate IPE assessment tool depending on the purpose of the intervention. More studies using these tools in rigorous study designs are required to substantiate the evidence base.
Significance of fucose in intestinal health and disease
Authors: Garber Jolene M. , Hennet Thierry , Szymanski Christine M.
Published: January 2021

The deoxyhexose sugar L‐fucose is important for many biological processes within the human body and the associated microbiota. This carbohydrate is abundant in host gut mucosal surfaces, numerous microbial cell surface structures, and some dietary carbohydrates. Fucosylated oligosaccharides facilitate the establishment of a healthy microbiota and provide protection from infection. However, there are instances where pathogens can also exploit these fucosylated structures to cause infection. Furthermore, deficiencies in host fucosylation are associated with specific disease outcomes. This review focuses on our current understanding of the impact of fucosylation within the mucosal environment of the gastrointestinal tract with a specific emphasis on the mediatory effects in host–microbe interactions.
Right place, right time: Environmental sensing and signal transduction directs cellular differentiation and motility in Trypanosoma brucei
Authors: Walsh Breanna , Hill Kent L.
Published: January 2021

Trypanosoma brucei and other African trypanosomes are vector‐borne parasites that cause substantial human suffering across sub‐Saharan Africa. The T. brucei life cycle is punctuated by numerous developmental stages, each occurring in a specific environmental niche and characterized by a unique morphology, metabolism, surface protein coat, and gene expression profile. The environmental cues and signaling pathways that drive transitions between these stages remain incompletely understood. Recent studies have started to fill this gap in knowledge. Likewise, several new studies have expanded our understanding of parasite movement through specific tissues and the parasite's ability to alter movement in response to external cues. Life cycle stage differentiation and motility are intimately integrated phenomena, as parasites must be at the right place (i.e., within a specific environmental milieu) at the right time (i.e., when they are appropriately staged and preadapted for perceiving and responding to signals) in order to complete their life cycle. In this review, we highlight some of the recent work that has transformed our understanding of signaling events that control parasite differentiation and motility. Increased knowledge of T. brucei environmental sensing and signal transduction advances our understanding of parasite biology and may direct prospective chemotherapeutic and transmission blockade strategies that are critical to eradication efforts.
Occurrence of Indo‐Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) off the Wild Coast of South Africa using photographic identification
Authors: Caputo Michelle , Bouveroux Thibaut , Froneman Pierre William , Shaanika Titus , Plön Stephanie
Published: January 2021

The present study represents the first reported boat‐based photographic identification study of Indo‐Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) off the Wild Coast of southeast South Africa. This area is known for the annual sardine run, which attracts apex predators to the region during the austral winter. Dedicated photo‐identification surveys were conducted along this coast at three different study sites in February, June, and November of each year from 2014 to 2016. During 47 surveys, 136 bottlenose dolphin groups were encountered, an estimated 4,474 dolphins observed, and 2,149 individuals were identified. Although most individuals (N = 1,770, 82.4%) were only observed once, some were resighted 2–7 times (N = 379, 17.6%), with an average of 305 days (range: 88–705 days) between resightings. The majority of bottlenose dolphins were resighted within the same study site (N = 192), indicating some degree of residency. However, 65 individuals were observed at two different study sites, indicating individual movements along the coast. Our findings contrast earlier suggestions that bottlenose dolphins only use the Wild Coast during the sardine run, as we found large number of animals year‐round with some level of site fidelity. This highlights the importance of the Wild Coast to bottlenose dolphins and provides further information on their status off southeastern South Africa.
A new species of baleen whale (Balaenoptera) from the Gulf of Mexico, with a review of its geographic distribution
Authors: Rosel Patricia E. , Wilcox Lynsey A. , Yamada Tadasu K. , Mullin Keith D.
Published: January 2021

Bryde's‐like whales are a complex of medium‐sized baleen whales that occur in tropical waters of all three major ocean basins. Currently, a single species of Bryde's whale, Balaenoptera edeni Anderson, 1879, is recognized, with two subspecies, Eden's whale, B. edeni edeni and Bryde's whale, B. edeni brydei (Olsen, 1913), although some authors have recognized these as separate species. Recently, a new, evolutionarily divergent lineage of Bryde's‐like whale was identified based on genetic data and was found to be restricted primarily to the northern Gulf of Mexico (GOMx). Here, we provide the first morphological examination of a complete skull from these whales and identify diagnostic characters that distinguish it from the other medium‐sized baleen whale taxa. In addition, we have increased the number of genetic samples of these Bryde's‐like whales in the GOMx from 23 to 36 individuals, all of which matched the GOMx lineage. A review of Bryde's‐like whale records in the Caribbean and greater Atlantic supports an isolated distribution for this unique lineage, augmenting the genetic and morphological body of evidence supporting the existence of an undescribed species of Balaenoptera from the Gulf of Mexico.
Reconstruction and analysis of a genome‐scale metabolic model for Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Authors: Xu Nan , Yang Qiyuan , Yang Xiaojing , Wang Mingqi , Guo Minliang
Published: January 2021

The plant pathogen Agrobacterium tumefaciens causes crown gall disease and is a widely used tool for generating transgenic plants owing to its virulence. The pathogenic process involves a shift from an independent to a living form within a host plant. However, comprehensive analyses of metabolites, genes, and reactions contributing to this complex process are lacking. To gain new insights about the pathogenicity from the viewpoints of physiology and cellular metabolism, a genome‐scale metabolic model (GSMM) was reconstructed for A. tumefaciens. The model, referred to as iNX1344, contained 1,344 genes, 1,441 reactions, and 1,106 metabolites. It was validated by analyses of in silico cell growth on 39 unique carbon or nitrogen sources and the flux distribution of carbon metabolism. A. tumefaciens metabolic characteristics under three ecological niches were modelled. A high capacity to access and metabolize nutrients is more important for rhizosphere colonization than in the soil, and substantial metabolic changes were detected during the shift from the rhizosphere to tumour environments. Furthermore, by integrating transcriptome data for tumour conditions, significant alterations in central metabolic pathways and secondary metabolite metabolism were identified. Overall, the GSMM and constraint‐based analysis could decode the physiological and metabolic features of A. tumefaciens as well as interspecific interactions with hosts, thereby improving our understanding of host adaptation and infection mechanisms.
Complementary effect of mechanism of multidrug resistance in Trichophyton mentagrophytes isolated from human dermatophytoses of animal origin
Authors: Gnat Sebastian , Łagowski Dominik , Nowakiewicz Aneta , Dyląg Mariusz , Osińska Marcelina
Published: January 2021

Background

Dermatophytoses have gained interest worldwide due to the increased resistance to terbinafine and azoles and difficulty in management of these refractory diseases.

Objectives

In this study, we identified and analysed Trichophyton mentagrophytes clinical isolates obtained from humans with infections of animal origin.

Methods

We used quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) to examine the transcriptional modulation of three MDR genes (PDR1, MDR2 and MDR4) and analysed squalene epoxidase (SQLE) gene sequences from multidrug‐resistant Trichophyton mentagrophytes isolates.

Results

The expression profile revealed a 2‐ to 12‐fold increase in mRNA accumulation in the presence of any of the antifungals, compared to cells incubated without drugs. A statistically significant relationship between the isolates exposed to itraconazole and increased expression of the tested genes was revealed. Substantially lower transcription levels were noted for cells exposed to luliconazole, that is, a third‐generation azole. Additionally, in the case of 50% of terbinafine‐resistant strains, Leu397Phe substitution in the SQLE gene was detected. Furthermore, the reduced susceptibility to itraconazole and voriconazole was overcome by milbemycin oxime.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our study shed more light on the role of the ABC transporter family in T. mentagrophytes, which, if overexpressed, can confer resistance to single azole drugs and even cross‐resistance. Finally, milbemycin oxime could be an interesting compound supporting treatment with azole drugs in the case of refractory dermatomycoses.
Zionism and Québécois nationalism: An initial comparative analysis
Authors: Daniel Rémi
Published: January 2021

Based on several studies on each of these movements and on primary sources, I claim that Zionism and Québécois nationalism have a unique set of similarities. The first part of this article focuses on the redefinition of national identity made by both movements—the end of a religious‐ethnic identity and a new focus on language and territory—and on its various consequences. In the second part, I compare Zionists' and Québécois nationalists' arguments for sovereignty, demonstrating their similarities, with a shared wish to become a majority, a common fear from assimilation, the same aspiration towards normality, and the same claim that national independence will bring with it a new era of progress. By doing so, I point to possible directions of more thorough comparative analyses bringing these two movements together.
Waved and unwaved flags: Nation and sexuality in a social media debate in Cyprus
Authors: Kadianaki Irini , Figgou Lia , Kyprianou Marina
Published: January 2021

This article focuses on the ways in which LGBT+ flag raising in a university at the Republic of Cyprus was debated in a social media environment. It aims to examine the ways in which discourses around sexuality intersect with discourses around the nation in a postcolonial, ethnically divided, European context. One hundred four comments posted on the university Facebook page were analysed through Thematic and Rhetorical analysis. Analysis revealed three main ways of accounting for the flag incident in which sexuality and LGBT+ issues are represented as (a) inferior to national issues, (b) symbolic and/or tangible threat to the nation and (c) personal (instead of collective) identity that should not be waved in public. The discussion focuses on the ways in which the findings differentiate from literature on homonationalism and on their implications for constructing collectiveness and understanding citizenship.
Molecular phylogeny and character mapping support generic adjustments in the Tetrapteroid clade (Malpighiaceae)
Authors: de Almeida Rafael Felipe , van den Berg Cássio
Published: January 2021

In the past two decades, Malpighiaceae has gone through unprecedented changes in classification due to molecular phylogenetic studies. However, some generic adjustments are still needed to make all genera monophyletic. In this study, we propose the new genus Glicophyllum to accommodate the species of Tetrapterys pro parte, a well‐supported lineage recovered by us and by the most recent phylogenetic studies of the family. Additionally, we propose the synonymy of Aenigmatanthera under Niedenzuella to finally render the latter monophyletic. Morphological characters related to inflorescence architecture, bract and bracteole size, presence of glands on the bracts and bracteoles, style size and thickness, and ratio length among superior and anterior lateral wings of mericarps are important for circumscribing these lineages.
Mechanisms underlying the promotion of 5‐hydroxytryptamine secretion in enterochromaffin cells of constipation mice by Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus
Authors: Lu Youyou , Zhang Zhe , Tong Lingjun , Zhou Xiaohong , Liang Xi , Yi Huaxi , Gong Pimin , Liu Tongjie , Zhang Lanwei , Yang Liuqing , Shi Hanping
Published: January 2021

Background

5‐Hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) could play a role in alleviating symptoms in constipation. However, the mechanism underlying the role of intestinal flora in the promotion of 5‐HT secretion by enterochromaffin cells (ECs) and regulation of the gastrointestinal endocrine system remains unclear.

Methods

A constipation mouse model was constructed, and the 5‐HT, chromogranin A (CGA), substance P (SP), motilin (MTL), dopamine, and noradrenaline expression levels were measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay(Elisa) and immunofluorescence, and key proteins, such as the transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels/tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) and olfactory receptor (OR), were determined using western blot. Flow cytometry and in vivo imaging were used to observe microbial colonization in the intestinal tracts of mice.

Key Results

Bifidobacterium animalis F1‐7 (F1‐7), Lactobacillus paraccasei F34‐3 (F34‐3), and Lactobacillus plantarum FWDG (FWDG) promoted 5‐HT secretion. F1‐7 and F34‐3 induced CGA expression, increased catecholamine secretion, and activated the CGA/α2A adrenoreceptor (ADRα2A) cascade signal in ECs. FWDG increased noradrenaline levels and activated the ADRα2A signal in ECs. SP content increased in F1‐7 and F34‐3, and MTL expression increased in FWDG via the above signal. F1‐7 and F34‐3 downregulated TRPV4 and upregulated TPH, whereas FWDG upregulated OR2A4 for promoting 5‐HT secretion by ECs. Finally, we observed that F1‐7, F34‐3, and FWDG were well colonized in the large intestine.

Conclusions and Inferences

F1‐7, F34‐3, and FWDG promoted 5‐HT secretion in ECs of constipation mice by activating the CGA/ADRα2A cascade signal and regulating the TRP/TPH–OR pathways.
A blueprint for gene function analysis through Base Editing in the model plant Physcomitrium (Physcomitrella) patens
Authors: Guyon‐Debast Anouchka , Alboresi Alessandro , Terret Zoé , Charlot Florence , Berthier Floriane , Vendrell‐Mir Pol , Casacuberta Josep M. , Veillet Florian , Morosinotto Tomas , Gallois Jean‐Luc , Nogué Fabien
Published: January 2021

CRISPR‐Cas9 has proven to be highly valuable for genome editing in plants, including the model plant Physcomitrium patens. However, the fact that most of the editing events produced using the native Cas9 nuclease correspond to small insertions and deletions is a limitation.

CRISPR‐Cas9 base editors enable targeted mutation of single nucleotides in eukaryotic genomes and therefore overcome this limitation. Here, we report two programmable base‐editing systems to induce precise cytosine or adenine conversions in P. patens.

Using cytosine or adenine base editors, site‐specific single‐base mutations can be achieved with an efficiency up to 55%, without off‐target mutations. Using the APT gene as a reporter of editing, we could show that both base editors can be used in simplex or multiplex, allowing for the production of protein variants with multiple amino‐acid changes. Finally, we set up a co‐editing selection system, named selecting modification of APRT to report gene targeting (SMART), allowing up to 90% efficiency site‐specific base editing in P. patens.

These two base editors will facilitate gene functional analysis in P. patens, allowing for site‐specific editing of a given base through single sgRNA base editing or for in planta evolution of a given gene through the production of randomly mutagenised variants using multiple sgRNA base editing.
Adaptation of Arabidopsis halleri to extreme metal pollution through limited metal accumulation involves changes in cell wall composition and metal homeostasis
Authors: Corso Massimiliano , An Xinhui , Jones Catherine Yvonne , Gonzalez‐Doblas Verónica , Schvartzman M. Sol , Malkowski Eugeniusz , Willats William G. T. , Hanikenne Marc , Verbruggen Nathalie
Published: January 2021

Metallophytes constitute powerful models for the study of metal homeostasis, adaptation to extreme environments and the evolution of naturally selected traits. Arabidopsis halleri is a pseudometallophyte which shows constitutive zinc/cadmium (Zn/Cd) tolerance and Zn hyperaccumulation but high intraspecific variability in Cd accumulation.

To examine the molecular basis of the variation in metal tolerance and accumulation, ionome, transcriptome and cell wall glycan array profiles were compared in two genetically close A. halleri populations from metalliferous and nonmetalliferous sites in Northern Italy. The metallicolous population displayed increased tolerance to and reduced hyperaccumulation of Zn, and limited accumulation of Cd, as well as altered metal homeostasis, compared to the nonmetallicolous population. This correlated well with the differential expression of transporter genes involved in trace metal entry and in Cd/Zn vacuolar sequestration in roots. Many cell wall‐related genes were also more highly expressed in roots of the metallicolous population.

Glycan array and histological staining analyses demonstrated that there were major differences between the two populations in terms of the accumulation of specific root pectin and hemicellulose epitopes.

Our results support the idea that both specific cell wall components and regulation of transporter genes play a role in limiting accumulation of metals in A. halleri at contaminated sites.
Dual roles of the serine/arginine‐rich splicing factor SR45a in promoting and interacting with nuclear cap‐binding complex to modulate the salt‐stress response in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Ying , Guo Qianhuan , Liu Peng , Huang Jinguang , Zhang Shizhong , Yang Guodong , Wu Changai , Zheng Chengchao , Yan Kang
Published: January 2021

Alternative splicing (AS) is emerging as a critical co‐transcriptional regulation for plants in response to environmental stresses. Although multiple splicing factors have been linked to the salt‐sensitive signaling network, the molecular mechanism remains unclear.

We discovered that a conserved serine/arginine‐rich (SR)‐like protein, SR45a, as a component of the spliceosome, was involved in post‐transcriptional regulation of salinity tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana. Furthermore, SR45a was required for the AS and messenger RNA (mRNA) maturation of several salt‐tolerance genes. Two alternatively spliced variants of SR45a were induced by salt stress, full‐length SR45a‐1a and the truncated isoform SR45a‐1b, respectively. Lines with overexpression of SR45a‐1a and SR45a‐1b exhibited hypersensitive to salt stress.

Our data indicated that SR45a directly interacted with the cap‐binding complex (CBC) subunit cap‐binding protein 20 (CBP20) which mediated salt‐stress responses. Instead of binding to other spliceosome components, SR45a‐1b promoted the association of SR45a‐1a with CBP20, therefore mediating salt‐stress signal transduction pathways. Additionally, the mutations in SR45a and CBP20 led to different salt‐stress phenotypes.

Together, these results provide the evidence that SR45a‐CBP20 acts as a regulatory complex to regulate the plant response to salt stress, through a regulatory mechanism to fine‐tune the splicing factors, especially in stressful conditions.
Growth‐regulating factor 5 (GRF5)‐mediated gene regulatory network promotes leaf growth and expansion in poplar
Authors: Wu Wenqi , Li Jiang , Wang Qiao , Lv Kaiwen , Du Kang , Zhang Wenli , Li Quanzi , Kang Xiangyang , Wei Hairong
Published: January 2021

Although polyploid plants have larger leaves than their diploid counterparts, the molecular mechanisms underlying this difference (or trait) remain elusive.

Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between triploid and full‐sib diploid poplar trees were identified from two transcriptomic data sets followed by a gene association study among DEGs to identify key leaf growth regulators. Yeast one‐hybrid system, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and dual‐luciferase assay were employed to substantiate that PpnGRF5‐1 directly regulated PpnCKX1. The interactions between PpnGRF5‐1 and growth‐regulating factor (GRF)‐interacting factors (GIFs) were experimentally validated and a multilayered hierarchical regulatory network (ML‐hGRN)‐mediated by PpnGRF5‐1 was constructed with top‐down graphic Gaussian model (GGM) algorithm by combining RNA‐sequencing data from its overexpression lines and DAP‐sequencing data.

PpnGRF5‐1 is a negative regulator of PpnCKX1. Overexpression of PpnGRF5‐1 in diploid transgenic lines resulted in larger leaves resembling those of triploids, and significantly increased zeatin and isopentenyladenine in the apical buds and third leaves. PpnGRF5‐1 also interacted with GIFs to increase its regulatory diversity and capacity. An ML‐hGRN‐mediated by PpnGRF5‐1 was obtained and could largely elucidate larger leaves.

PpnGRF5‐1 and the ML‐hGRN‐mediated by PpnGRF5‐1 were underlying the leaf growth and development.
Recent developments in using the molecular decay dating method: a review
Authors: Tintner Johannes
Published: January 2021

The dating of organic findings is a fundamental task for many scientific fields. Radiocarbon dating is currently the most commonly used method. For wood, dendrochronology is another state‐of‐the‐art method. Both methods suffer from systematic restrictions, leading to samples that have not yet been able to be dated. Molecular changes over time are reported for many materials under different preservation conditions. Many of them are intrinsically monotonous. These monotonous molecular decay (MD) patterns can be understood as clocks that start at the time when a given molecule was formed. Factors that influence these clocks include input material composition and preservation conditions. Different wood species, degrees of pyrolysis, and pretreatments lead to different prediction models. Preservation conditions might change the speed of a given clock and lead to different prediction models. Currently published models for predicting the age of wood, paper, and parchment depend on infrared spectroscopy. In contrast to radiocarbon dating, dating via MD does not comprise a single methodology. Some clocks may deliver less precise results than the others. Ultimately, developing a completely different, new dating strategy‐such as MD dating–will help to bring to light a treasure trove of information hidden in the darkness of organic findings.
Perceptions of local community members towards foreign aid: A case study of Vava'u, Tonga
Authors: Haak Edgar , Nakamura Naohiro
Published: January 2021

Foreign aid has arguably played a significant role in the economic development of the Pacific Island countries. Tonga is deemed to have succeeded in implementing the principles of the Paris Declaration of 2005, especially Ownership, Alignment and Harmonisation, by aid funding channelled through state institutions. Nevertheless, it is still unknown if the aid effect has reached civil society, and how community members perceive aid. This article examines the perceptions of community members towards foreign aid, using the case study of the archipelago of Vava'u, Tonga.
Efficacy of hypermethylated DNA biomarkers in saliva and oral swabs for oral cancer diagnosis: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Adeoye John , Alade Azeez Arisekola , Zhu Wang‐yong , Wang Weilan , Choi Siu‐Wai , Thomson Peter
Published: January 2021

Objectives

This study aims to determine the diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) of hypermethylated DNA biomarkers in saliva and oral swabs for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) detection from the prevalidation studies available.

Materials and Methods

Electronic database searching of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and LILACS was conducted to identify relevant articles that were published between January 1, 2000, and August 1, 2020.

Results

Meta‐analysis was conducted based on 11 of 20 studies selected for review. Included studies had high bias concerns on the QUADAS‐2 study assessment tool. We found that salivary and oral swab hypermethylation markers had better specificity than sensitivity for oral cancer detection. Summary sensitivity and specificity (95% CI) of hypermethylation panels were 86.2% (60–96.2) and 90.6% (85.9–93.9) while for individual markers, summary sensitivity and specificity (95% CI) were 70% (56.9–80.5) and 91.9% (80.3–96.9), respectively. Respective positive and negative likelihood ratios for combined markers were 9.2 (5.89–14.36) and 0.15 (0.05–0.5), and 8.61 (3.39–21.87) and 0.33 (0.22–0.49) for single‐application biomarkers.

Conclusion

DNA hypermethylation biomarkers especially in combination have acceptable DTA that warrants further optimization with rigorous biomarker evaluation methods for conclusive determination of their efficacy.
Flexion Dysfunction of Atlanto‐Occipital Joint Associated with Cervical Spondylosis
Authors: Gong Long , Ma Hao‐ning , Yi Ping , Tan Ming‐sheng
Published: January 2021

Objective

To investigate the association between atlanto‐occipital radiographic alignment in flexion and cervical spondylosis (CS).

Methods

This is a retrospective case‐control study. CS patients were recruited from our hospital, and the age/gender/body mass index (BMI)‐matched healthy controls were selected from the subjects in health examinations at the same hospital between January 2015 and May 2019. A total of 464 subjects was included in the study. There are 282 males and 182 females. The ages of patients were 20 to 67 years, and the mean age was 33.9 years. CS patients were considered the case group. Based on surgical treatments, they were subdivided into non‐operation group and operation group. The operation group and non‐operation group had 45 and 187 patients, respectively, while 232 subjects were included in the control group. The angle between McGregor's line and C1 line (O‐C1 angle) was evaluated on images taken in flexion (F‐OC) and neutral positions (N‐OC) independently. The relationship between the FOC (FOC=F‐OC—N‐OC) and Neck Disability Index (NDI) was examined, and the involvement of the FOC in the onset of CS was analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the optimal cut‐off for detecting an increased risk of CS.

Results

The median follow‐up time was 51.6 months (25–115 months). The case groups, especially the operation group, tended to be older (55.8 ± 11.2 vs 41.6 ± 13.8 vs 23.5 ± 5.5 years, P < 0.001), have a higher NDI score (12.2 ± 4.5 vs 6.2 ± 2.1 vs 3.2 ± 1.2, P < 0.001), and longer medical history (10.5 ± 9.5 vs 6.8 ± 11.2 years, P < 0.001). One‐way analysis of variance showed statistically significant differences in FOC between the control and case groups (1.4° ± 1.2° vs 3.6° ± 1.9° vs 7.2° ± 2.0°, P < 0.001). Besides, a post‐hoc Tukey test showed a lower FOC in the operation group compared with that in the non‐operation group (1.4° ± 1.2° vs 3.6° ± 1.9°, P < 0.001). Using FOC as a radiological predictive model to predict CS, the cut‐off value was 4.2°. Using FOC as a radiological predictive model to predict CS, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.86 (95% CI: 0.78–0.92, P < 0.001). In the univariable risk analysis model, conditional logistic regression showed that the FOC level was an independent factor with an important role in the risk of CS. The odds rose to 8.2 times when FOC reached the level under 4.2° (OR = 8.2; 95% CI: 6.4–10.0; P < 0.001). There existed a significant negative correlation between FOC levels and NDI (r = −0.451, P = 0.016).

Conclusions

Stiff O‐C1, which is defined as FOC ≤ 4.2°, represented decreased flexion dysfunction of atlanto‐occipital joint and is closely associated with high risk for the occurrence of CS. This finding could show a possible relationship between upper and lower cervical spine and help spine surgeons to understand the pathological process of CS and implement appropriate management.