bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenies of traits and functions in soil invertebrate assemblages
Authors: Ross Giles M. , Berg Matty P. , Salmon Sandrine , Nielsen Uffe N.
Published: February 2022

Soil invertebrates are members of terrestrial ecosystems, contributing to the processing of organic matter, resulting in carbon and nutrient cycling that is essential for continuous productivity. By linking species delineations, morphological traits and measured or inferred functional roles, we demonstrate a method for functional identification of soil faunal assemblages based on molecular information. Here we align the genetic inter‐relatedness and functional trait expression in nematodes and springtails. Nematodes were assigned feeding guild, plant parasitic feeding type and coloniser‐persister (c‐p) value, with springtail sequences assigned to soil vertical stratification level, soil moisture preference and a selection of morphological traits.

We found that both nematode and springtail feeding preferences show significant phylogenetic clustering. In contrast, greater dispersal was found amongst nematode coloniser‐persister (c‐p) values and springtail soil vertical stratification level and moisture preferences. Minimum patristic (p) distances between species supported the clustering amongst nematode feeding guilds, with plant feeders being separated from all other guilds by at least p = 0.99. Distances between endoparasitic, ectoparasitic and sedentary plant parasitic nematodes were also distinct with minimal distances of p = 0.35–0.72 between parasitic types. Springtail stratification level and soil moisture preferences showed greater dispersion across phylogenies, with negligible between‐group minimum patristic distances. However, nematode c‐p values and springtail moisture preference alignments indicate some genetic conservation at the genus level.

These results indicate how ecosystems can direct trait conservation beyond that of environmental stimuli. Being able to assign functional traits to novel sequences will allow individual species' likely contribution to ecosystem functioning to be inferred without the need for exact taxonomic identification. More broadly, such information can advance our understanding of the evolution of soil faunal traits and the contribution of diverse soil assemblages to functional soil systems, particularly those with a high proportion of undescribed species.
Managing the allergy and asthma epidemic in 2020s—Lessons from the Finnish experience
Authors: Haahtela Tari , Jantunen Juha , Saarinen Kimmo , Tommila Erja , Valovirta Erkka , Vasankari Tuula , Mäkelä Mika J.
Published: February 2022

In Finland, a systematic public health programme was implemented from 2008 to 2018 to mitigate the burden of allergic disorders by revisiting the prevention strategy. Allergy health and contacts with natural environment were emphasized to promote immunological and psychological resilience instead of poorly justified avoidance. Allergy management practices were improved and low‐valued recommendations for care, for example for food allergy, were revised. Patients and families were empowered to use guided self‐management to proactively stop symptom exacerbations. A professional non‐governmental organization implemented the nationwide education for healthcare and patient NGOs for patients, families and lay public. In healthcare, the work supporting allergic patients and families was organized towards common goals and integrated into everyday work without extra costs. Reaching the predefined goals was followed by employing the national healthcare registers and questionnaire surveys. Governmental bodies contributed with kick‐off funding, which was supplemented by private funding. International collaboration, for example with the European patient organization (EFA), increased awareness of the Finnish action and predisposed it for peer review. The 10‐year results are favourable, patients are less disabled, practices and attitudes in healthcare have changed, and major cost savings have been obtained. Views of the lay public and patients are slow to move, however. Local multidisciplinary allergy teams were set up to continue the activities also after the Programme. Changes in environment and lifestyle in the last 50 years are the main reasons for the allergy rise. The Finnish experience may help to manage allergic diseases, improve nature relatedness in the fast‐urbanizing world, combat nature loss and reduce the disease burden.
Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation for out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized and propensity score‐matched studies
Authors: Scquizzato Tommaso , Bonaccorso Alessandra , Consonni Michela , Scandroglio Anna Mara , Swol Justyna , Landoni Giovanni , Zangrillo Alberto
Published: February 2022

Background

In selected patients with refractory out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest, extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation represents a promising approach when conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation fails to achieve return of spontaneous circulation. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to compare extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation to conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to November 28, 2021, for randomized trials and observational studies reporting propensity score‐matched data and comparing adults with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest treated with extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation with those treated with conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The primary outcome was survival with favorable neurological outcome at the longest follow‐up available. Secondary outcomes were survival at the longest follow‐up available and survival at hospital discharge/30 days.

Results

We included six studies, two randomized and four propensity score‐matched studies. Patients treated with extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation had higher rates of survival with favorable neurological outcome (81/584 [14%] vs. 46/593 [7.8%]; OR = 2.11; 95% CI, 1.41–3.15; p < 0.001, number needed to treat 16) and of survival (131/584 [22%] vs. 102/593 [17%]; OR = 1.40; 95% CI, 1.05–1.87; p = 0.02) at the longest follow‐up available compared with conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Survival at hospital discharge/30 days was similar between the two groups (142/584 [24%] vs. 122/593 [21%]; OR = 1.26; 95% CI, 0.95–1.66; p = 0.10).

Conclusions

Evidence from randomized trials and propensity score‐matched studies suggests increased survival and favorable neurological outcome in patients with refractory out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest treated with extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Large, multicentre randomized studies are still ongoing to confirm these findings.
Abundance‐ and incidence‐based estimation of total number of rare species in under‐sampled sites
Authors: Wu Yongbin , Chen Youhua , Li Feng‐Quan , Shen Tsung‐Jen , Nielsen Scott E.
Published: February 2022

Questions

Ecologists collecting field samples of biological data have a keen interest in addressing the following question: how many rare species are there in as‐yet unsurveyed additional samples? Depending on the size of a targeted additional sample, statistical models for estimating the number of rare species have not been systematically established and compared.

Location

Global.

Methods

For fairly comparing and predicting rare‐species richness at the same sample‐size baseline, we systematically developed and compared four estimators for rarefaction and extrapolation of rare‐species richness with a given specific abundance. These four estimators included a uniformly minimum variance unbiased (UMVUE), Bayesian‐weighted, Chao‐derived unweighted and naïve estimator.

Results

After extensive numerical tests, for conducting rarefaction of rare‐species richness (i.e., when additional sample size was not larger than the original one) it is recommended to implement UMVUE, as it has zero bias and coverage percentage closest to 0.95. However, the performance of Bayesian‐weighted and Chao‐derived estimators is also satisfactory. By contrast, for conducting extrapolation of rare‐species richness (i.e., when the additional sample size is larger than the original one), the Bayesian‐weighted estimator is recommended, as it has the best performance among the four estimators (here UMVUE is inapplicable).

Conclusions

There was no absolute winner, as the different estimators have their own merits and are recommended under different settings. When conducting rarefaction of rare‐species richness, UMVUE, which has the highest accuracy, is recommended. By contrast, when conducting extrapolation of rare‐species richness, the Bayesian‐weighted estimator is recommended, as it has the overall best performance. To facilitate the potential application in the comparison and prediction of rare‐species diversity using rarefaction and extrapolation techniques, an R package (fRSE) has been developed; it is freely distributed at the following URL: https://github.com/ecomol/fRSE.
Characterisation of individual ferritin response in patients receiving chelation therapy
Authors: Borella Elisa , Oosterholt Sean , Magni Paolo , Della Pasqua Oscar
Published: February 2022

Aims

To develop a drug–disease model describing iron overload and its effect on ferritin response in patients affected by transfusion‐dependent haemoglobinopathies and investigate the contribution of interindividual differences in demographic and clinical factors on chelation therapy with deferiprone or deferasirox.

Methods

Individual and mean serum ferritin data were retrieved from 13 published studies in patients affected by haemoglobinopathies receiving deferiprone or deferasirox. A nonlinear mixed effects modelling approach was used to characterise iron homeostasis and serum ferritin production taking into account annual blood consumption, baseline demographic and clinical characteristics. The effect of chelation therapy was parameterised as an increase in the iron elimination rate. Internal and external validation procedures were used to assess model performance across different study populations.

Results

An indirect response model was identified, including baseline ferritin concentrations and annual blood consumption as covariates. The effect of chelation on iron elimination rate was characterised by a linear function, with different slopes for each drug (0.0109 [90% CI: 0.0079–0.0131] vs. 0.0013 [90% CI: 0.0008–0.0018] L/mg mo). In addition to drug‐specific differences in the magnitude of the ferritin response, simulation scenarios indicate that ferritin elimination rates depend on ferritin concentrations at baseline.

Conclusion

Modelling of serum ferritin following chronic blood transfusion enabled the evaluation of drug‐induced changes in iron elimination rate and ferritin production. The use of a semi‐mechanistic parameterisation allowed us to disentangle disease‐specific factors from drug‐specific properties. Despite comparable chelation mechanisms, deferiprone appears to have a significantly larger effect on the iron elimination rate than deferasirox.
Environmental, spatial and biotic factors affect the tadpole distribution in Brazilian savannas
Authors: Ferreira da Paixão Ingrid Beatriz , Alves‐Ferreira Gabriela , Nomura Fausto
Published: February 2022

Multiple factors contribute to explaining the composition and structure of communities, and the niche is still the most used theory to describe how organisms interact with such factors to generate biological communities’ patterns. Both biotic and abiotic aspects of the environment along with the geographic space interact in complex ways with the behavior and physiological tolerance of organisms to structure a community. In this study, we tested the potential effects of the environment, space and competition and assess how the may determine the distribution of tadpoles in aquatic habitats located at Emas National Park. To this end, we sampled 23 aquatic habitats, described their environmental characteristics, recorded their geographic location, and carried out a survey of the tadpoles found. Later, we evaluated the effect of environmental and spatial variables on the distribution of species, through a Partial Redundancy analysis, using matrices of environmental descriptors and geographic location. We found that both environmental and spatial factors drive the distribution and the species composition of the studied assemblages. Also, when we analyzed the pattern of co‐occurrence, we observed that the number of co‐occurrence pairs of species in the Emas National Park is less frequent than expected by chance, suggesting that besides the effect of abiotic components (environmental and spatial factors), competition is a co‐structuring factor in the assemblages of tadpoles.

Abstract in portuguese is available with online material.
Water‐soluble dietary fiber alleviates cancer‐induced muscle wasting through changes in gut microenvironment in mice
Authors: Sakakida Tomoki , Ishikawa Takeshi , Doi Toshifumi , Morita Ryuichi , Endo Yuki , Matsumura Shinya , Ota Takayuki , Yoshida Juichiro , Hirai Yasuko , Mizushima Katsura , Higashimura Yasuki , Inoue Ken , Okayama Tetsuya , Uchiyama Kazuhiko , Takagi Tomohisa , Abe Aya , Inoue Ryo , Itoh Yoshito , Naito Yuji
Published: February 2022

Cancer cachexia and the associated skeletal muscle wasting are considered poor prognostic factors, although effective treatment has not yet been established. Recent studies have indicated that the pathogenesis of skeletal muscle loss may involve dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and the accompanying chronic inflammation or altered metabolism. In this study, we evaluated the possible effects of modifying the gut microenvironment with partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG), a soluble dietary fiber, on cancer‐related muscle wasting and its mechanism using a colon‐26 murine cachexia model. Compared with a fiber‐free (FF) diet, PHGG contained fiber‐rich (FR) diet–attenuated skeletal muscle loss in cachectic mice by suppressing the elevation of the major muscle‐specific ubiquitin ligases Atrogin‐1 and MuRF1, as well as the autophagy markers LC3 and Bnip3. Although tight‐junction markers were partially reduced in both FR and FF diet–fed cachectic mice, the abundance of Bifidobacterium, Akkermansia, and unclassified S24‐7 family increased by FR diet, contributing to the retention of the colonic mucus layer. The reinforcement of the gut barrier function resulted in the controlled entry of pathogens into the host system and reduced circulating levels of lipopolysaccharide‐binding protein (LBP) and IL‐6, which in turn led to the suppression of proteolysis by downregulating the ubiquitin‐proteasome system and autophagy pathway. These results suggest that dietary fiber may have the potential to alleviate skeletal muscle loss in cancer cachexia, providing new insights for developing effective strategies in the future.
Can we find a precise timing for endoscopic intervention in gastrointestinal bleeding?
Authors: Kusano Chika
Published: February 2022

This Editorial refers to the article by J.Y.W. Lau, p 260‐264 of this issue DEN 34:2.
Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination in infants born at term: Predicting outcomes other than cerebral palsy
Authors: Romeo Domenico M. , Cowan Frances M. , Haataja Leena , Ricci Daniela , Pede Elisa , Gallini Francesca , Cota Francesco , Brogna Claudia , Romeo Mario G. , Vento Giovanni , Mercuri Eugenio
Published: February 2022

Aim

We explored the ability of the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (HINE) to identify cognitive performance delay at 2 years in a large cohort of infants born at term.

Method

We conducted a retrospective study of infants born at term at risk of neurodevelopmental impairments assessed using the HINE between 3 and 12 months post‐term age and compared them with a cohort of typically developing infants born at term. All infants performed a neurodevelopmental assessment at 2 years of age using the Mental Development Index (MDI) of the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, Second Edition; the presence of cerebral palsy (CP) was also reported. The infants were classified as being cognitively normal/mildly delayed or significantly delayed (MDI < 70). The predictive validity of HINE scores for significantly delayed cognitive performance, in infants with and without CP, was calculated using specific cut‐off scores according to age at assessment.

Results

A total of 446 at‐risk and 235 typically developing infants (345 males, 336 females; mean [SD] gestational age 38.7 weeks [1.4], range 37–43 weeks) were included. Of the at‐risk infants, 408 did not have CP at 2 years; 243 had a normal/mild delayed MDI and 165 had an MDI less than 70. Of the at‐risk infants, 38 developed CP. HINE scores showed a good sensitivity and specificity, mainly after 3 months, for identifying significantly delayed cognitive performance in infants without CP. In those with CP, the score was associated with their cognitive performance. The comparison group had the highest HINE scores.

Interpretation

The HINE provides evidence about the risk of delayed cognitive performance at age 2 years in infants born at term with and without CP.
Understanding complex spatial dynamics from mechanistic models through spatio‐temporal point processes
Authors: Zamberletti Patrizia , Papaïx Julien , Gabriel Edith , Opitz Thomas
Published: February 2022

Landscape heterogeneity affects population dynamics, which determine species persistence, diversity and interactions. These relationships can be accurately represented by advanced spatially‐explicit models (SEMs) allowing for high levels of detail and precision. However, such approaches are characterised by high computational complexity, high amount of data and memory requirements and spatio‐temporal outputs may be difficult to analyse. A possibility to deal with this complexity is to aggregate outputs over time or space, but then interesting information may be masked and lost, such as local spatio‐temporal relationships or patterns. An alternative solution is given by meta‐models and meta‐analysis, where simplified mathematical relationships are used to structure and summarise the complex transformations from inputs to outputs. Here, we propose an original approach to analyse SEM outputs. By developing a meta‐modelling approach based on spatio‐temporal point processes (STPPs), we characterise spatio‐temporal population dynamics and landscape heterogeneity relationships in agricultural contexts. A landscape generator and a spatially‐explicit population model simulate hierarchically the pest–predator dynamics of codling moth and ground beetles in apple orchards over heterogeneous agricultural landscapes. Spatio‐temporally explicit outputs are simplified to marked point patterns of key events, such as local proliferation or introduction events. Then, we construct and estimate regression equations for multi‐type STPPs composed of event occurrence intensity and magnitudes. Results provide local insights into spatio‐temporal dynamics of pest–predator systems. We are able to differentiate the contributions of different driver categories (i.e. spatio‐temporal, spatial, population dynamics). We highlight changes in the effects on occurrence intensity and magnitude when considering drivers at global or local scale. This approach leads to novel findings in agroecology where, for example, we show that the organisation of cultivated patches and semi‐natural elements play different roles for pest regulation depending on the scale considered. It aids to formulate guidelines for biological control strategies at global and local scale.
The causes and ecological context of rapid morphological evolution in birds
Authors: Crouch Nicholas M. A. , Tobias Joseph A.
Published: February 2022

Episodic pulses in morphological diversification are a prominent feature of evolutionary history, driven by factors that remain widely disputed. Resolving this question has proved challenging because comprehensive species‐level data are generally unavailable at sufficient scale. Combining global phylogenetic and morphological data for birds, we show that pulses of diversification in lineages and traits tend to occur independently and in different contexts. Speciation pulses are preceded by greater differentiation in overall morphology and habitat niche, then followed by increased rates of beak evolution. Contrary to standard hypotheses, pulses of morphological diversification tend to be associated with habitat niche stability rather than adaptation to different diets and habitat types. These patterns suggest that the timing of diversification varies across traits according to their ecological function, and that pulses of morphological evolution may occur when successful lineages subdivide niche space within particular habitat types. Our results highlight the growing potential of functional trait data sets to refine macroevolutionary models.
Full‐thickness endotracheal tube defect resulting in an anaesthetic circuit leak
Authors: Miller Lucy , Lord Samuel
Published: February 2022

Background

Loss of endotracheal tube (ETT) integrity secondary to dental damage is reported in the human literature.

Objective

To describe this problem in equine anaesthesia.

Study design

Case report.

Clinical summary

An 18‐year‐old Standardbred gelding presented out of hours with colic signs. Findings on clinical examination and pain refractory to analgesia meant that exploratory laparotomy was elected for. Prior to general anaesthesia (GA) leak testing of the anaesthetic machine was performed and the pilot balloon of the endotracheal tube (ETT) was inflated to confirm cuff integrity. Intermittent‐positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) was initiated immediately following placement in dorsal recumbency and connection to the anaesthetic machine. During the inspiratory phase of IPPV, a loud gas leak was audible from the oropharynx and minimal thoracic excursion was observed, with repeated inflations of the ETT cuff unsuccessful at abolishing the leak. Due to suspicion of a defect within the silicone ETT itself, a support arm was used to abolish the curvature of the ETT, maintaining it in a straighter plane. This intervention abolished the leak allowing effective IPPV. After completion of GA, a close inspection of the ETT revealed a full‐thickness laceration, thought to be a result of dental damage at an earlier date.

Main limitations

A single case is described.

Conclusions

This report emphasises the importance of thorough inspection of the ETT prior to use to effectively secure the airway and enable IPPV provision in critical cases.
Prostate biopsy and prostate cancer management in patients with haemophilia: The experience of French Haemophilia Treatment Centres
Authors: Gautier Philippe , Guillet Benoit , Sigaud Marianne , Claeyssens Ségolène , Volot Fabienne Genre , Chamouni Pierre , Lienahrt Anne , Frotscher Birgit , Fournel Alexandra , Castet Sabine , Poumayou Catherine , Gay Valérie , Thuret Rodolphe , Wibaut Bénédicte , Biron‐Andreani Christine
Published: February 2022

Background

Data are limited on prostate cancer (PC) management in patients with haemophilia (PWH).

Aim

To describe PC screening and diagnosis, treatment modalities and bleeding complications in a group of unselected PWH followed at French Haemophilia Treatment Centres (HTCs)

Patients and methods

PC screening, management and bleeding complications were retrospectively investigated at 14 French HTCs between 2003 and 2018.

Results

Among> 1549 > 50‐year‐old PWHs, 73 (4.7%) underwent PC screening (median age 71.1 years; 67/6 HA/HB, 17/56 severe‐moderate/mild). At diagnosis, haematuria was infrequent. Prophylaxis was administered during 76/86 (88%) prostate biopsies (PB) (n = 67 clotting factor concentrates, CFC; n = 9 desmopressin; n = 17 associated with tranexamic acid, TA). Bleeding (11/86, 12.8%) occurred mainly post‐prophylaxis (median delay: 7 days): haematuria (9/11, 81.8%), and rectal bleeding (2/11, 18.2%) including one major (1.2%). PC was confirmed in 50/86 PB and in two prostatectomy specimens (total n = 50 patients, n = 6 with only active surveillance). Surgery (n = 28/44 patients) was managed with CFC. Fifteen patients had radiotherapy/brachytherapy, 10 had hormone therapy; CFC‐based prophylaxis was only prescribed for brachytherapy (n = 2). Major bleedings occurred in 3/28 (10.7%) and 2/15 (13.3%) patients who underwent surgery and radio/brachytherapy, respectively. No bleeding risk factor was found.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that PB requires prophylaxis for atleast 7 days, using CFC, desmopressin or TA in function of haemophilia severity. PC surgery should be considered at high bleeding risk. Long‐term post‐procedural CFC or oral TA could be discussed. Radiotherapy/brachytherapy also should be managed with prophylaxis (CFC or TA).
Effectiveness of integrase strand transfer inhibitors in HIV‐infected treatment‐experienced individuals across Europe
Authors: Rossetti Barbara , Fabbiani Massimiliano , Di Carlo Domenico , Incardona Francesca , Abecasis Ana , Gomes Perpetua , Geretti Anna Maria , Seguin‐Devaux Carole , Garcia Federico , Kaiser Rolf , Modica Sara , Shallvari Adrian , Sönnerborg Anders , Zazzi Maurizio ,   EuResist Network, INTEGRATE study group
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To explore the effectiveness and durability of integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)‐based regimens in pre‐treated subjects.

Methods

Treatment‐experienced individuals starting an INSTI‐based regimen during 2012–2019 were selected from the INTEGRATE collaborative study. The time to virological failure [VF: one measurement of viral load (VL) ≥ 1000 copies/mL or two ≥ 50 copies/ml or one VL measurement ≥ 50 copies/mL followed by treatment change] and to INSTI discontinuation were evaluated.

Results

Of 13 560 treatments analysed, 4284 were from INSTI‐naïve, non‐viraemic (IN‐NV) individuals, 1465 were from INSTI‐naïve, viraemic (IN‐V) individuals, 6016 were from INSTI‐experienced, non‐viraemic (IE‐NV) individuals and 1795 were from INSTI‐experienced, viraemic (IE‐V) individuals. Major INSTI drug resistance mutations (DRMs) were previously detected in 4/519 (0.8%) IN‐NV, 3/394 (0.8%) IN‐V, 7/1510 (0.5%) IE‐NV and 25/935 (2.7%) IE‐V individuals. The 1‐year estimated probabilities of VF were 3.1% [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.5–3.8] in IN‐NV, 18.4% (95% CI: 15.8–21.2) in IN‐V, 4.2% (95% CI: 3.6–4.9) in IE‐NV and 23.9% (95% CI: 20.9–26.9) in IE‐V subjects. The 1‐year estimated probabilities of INSTI discontinuation were 12.1% (95% CI: 11.1–13.0) in IN‐NV, 19.6% (95% CI: 17.5–21.6) in IN‐V, 10.8% (95% CI: 10.0–11.6) in IE‐NV and 21.7% (95% CI: 19.7–23.5) in IE‐V subjects.

Conclusions

Both VF and INSTI discontinuation occur at substantial rates in viraemic subjects. Detection of DRMs in a proportion of INSTI‐experienced individuals makes INSTI resistance testing mandatory after failure.
An alternative downstream translation start site in the non‐TIR adaptor Scimp enables selective amplification of CpG DNA responses in mouse macrophages
Authors: Curson James EB , Luo Lin , Liu Liping , Burgess Belinda J , Bokil Nilesh J , Wall Adam A , Brdicka Tomas , Kapetanovic Ronan , Stow Jennifer L , Sweet Matthew J
Published: February 2022

Toll‐like receptor (TLR) signaling relies on Toll/interleukin‐1 receptor homology (TIR) domain‐containing adaptor proteins that recruit downstream signaling molecules to generate tailored immune responses. In addition, the palmitoylated transmembrane adaptor protein family member Scimp acts as a non‐TIR‐containing adaptor protein in macrophages, scaffolding the Src family kinase Lyn to enable TLR phosphorylation and proinflammatory signaling responses. Here we report the existence of a smaller, naturally occurring translational variant of Scimp (Scimp TV1), which is generated through leaky scanning and translation at a downstream methionine. Scimp TV1 also scaffolds Lyn, but in contrast to full‐length Scimp, it is basally rather than lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐inducibly phosphorylated. Macrophages from mice that selectively express Scimp TV1, but not full‐length Scimp, have impaired sustained LPS‐inducible cytokine responses. Furthermore, in granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor‐derived myeloid cells that express high levels of Scimp, selective overexpression of Scimp TV1 enhances CpG DNA‐inducible cytokine production. Unlike full‐length Scimp that localizes to the cell surface and filopodia, Scimp TV1 accumulates in intracellular compartments, particularly the Golgi. Moreover, this variant of Scimp is not inducibly phosphorylated in response to CpG DNA, suggesting that it may act via an indirect mechanism to enhance TLR9 responses. Our findings thus reveal the use of alternative translation start sites as a previously unrecognized mechanism for diversifying TLR responses in the innate immune system.
Temporal transcriptomes unravel the effects of heat stress on seed germination during wheat grain filling
Authors: He Yu , Huang Wen , Pu Zhien , Li Maolian , Cheng Mengping , Liu Yujiao , Dong Huixue , Qi Pengfei , Guo Xiaojiang , Jiang Qiantao , Wei Yuming , Wang Jirui
Published: February 2022

Promoting seed germination after short episodes of heat stress during the wheat grain filling stage is a serious problem that results in pre‐harvest sprouting. The plant hormones abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellins (GAs), and ethylene (ETH) are well known to be involved in germination control. However, the genes associated with the metabolism and responsiveness of these hormones to heat stress during wheat grain filling are not well understood. Transcriptomic analysis was carried out to explore the mechanisms controlling seed germination under five days (15–20 days after flowering, DAF) of heat stress (20, 24, 28, and 32°C) in wheat grains at 15–30 DAF using comparative RNA sequencing. A dataset of 2073 differentially regulated genes was used to help elucidate the molecular mechanisms that respond to heat stress and affect seed germination in wheat. Some genes related to ABA, GA, and ETH biosynthesis, transport, and signaling had significantly different expression levels under heat stress. Among these genes, the transcriptional alterations of plant hormone‐related genes, such as NCED9, AAO3, CYP707A2, GA20ox, and SAM1 uncovered here, provide a foundation for identifying key players involved in determining seed dormancy and germination. The expression levels of many germination‐related genes did not linearly increase with increasing temperature. In this study, 28°C is a threshold of temperature tolerance during the grain filling stage. Heat stress, especially extremely high temperature (>28°C), represses ABA‐related gene expression and promotes seed germination.
Hypertension continuum of care: Blood pressure screening, diagnosis, treatment, and control in a population‐based cohort in Haiti
Authors: Metz Miranda , Pierre Jean Lookens , Yan Lily Du , Rouzier Vanessa , St‐Preux Stephano , Exantus Serfine , Preval Fabyola , Roberts Nicholas , Tymejczyk Olga , Malebranche Rodolphe , Deschamps Marie Marcelle , Pape Jean W. , McNairy Margaret L.
Published: February 2022

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death in low‐income countries including Haiti, with hypertension (HTN) being the leading risk factor. This study aims to identify gaps in the HTN continuum of screening, diagnosis, treatment, and blood pressure (BP) control. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected from a population‐based sample of adults ≥18 years in Port‐au‐Prince (PAP) from March 2019 to April 2021. HTN was defined as systolic BP ≥ 140 mmHg, diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg, or use of antihypertensive medication. Screening was defined as ever having had a BP measurement; diagnosis as previously being informed of a HTN diagnosis; treatment as having taken antihypertensives in the past 2 weeks; and controlled as taking antihypertensives and having BP < 140/90 mmHg. Factors associated with attaining each step in the continuum were assessed using Poisson multivariable regressions. Among 2737 participants, 810 (29% age‐standardized) had HTN, of whom 97% had been screened, 72% diagnosed, 45% treated, and 13% controlled. There were no significant differences across age groups or sex. Obesity (BMI ≥ 30) was a significant factor associated with receiving treatment compared to normal weight (BMI < 25), with a prevalence ratio (PR) of 1.5 (95% CI 1.1–2.0). Having secondary or higher education was associated with higher likelihood of controlled BP (PR 1.9 [95% CI 1.1–3.3]). In this urban Haitian population, the greatest gaps in HTN care are treatment and control. Targeted interventions are needed to improve these steps, including broader access to affordable treatment, timely distribution of medications, and patient adherence to HTN medication.
Detection of apple varieties by near‐infrared reflectance spectroscopy coupled with SPSO‐PFCM
Authors: Xu Qinyu , Wu Xiaohong , Wu Bin , Zhou Haoxiang
Published: February 2022

To accurately identify apple varieties on the assembly line and to improve the development of the apple quality detection, we proposed a possibilistic fuzzy c‐means (PFCM) algorithm based on similar particle swarm optimization (SPSO) for classifying near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIR) spectra. We took the objective function of PFCM as the fitness function of SPSO (SPSO‐PFCM), which reduced the dependence on fuzzy c‐means algorithm (FCM). The similarity between particles maintained the diversity of particles and then avoided premature convergence of particle swarm optimization (PSO). In the experiment, we classified four kinds of apples. SPSO‐PFCM was utilized to develop the classification model for the NIR spectra of apples. The results showed that SPSO‐PFCM had the highest clustering accuracy, which reached 96%. We also used two datasets to verify the algorithm, and the results proved that SPSO‐PFCM had the highest accuracy. Therefore, SPSO‐PFCM combined with NIR was an effective method to identify apple varieties.

Practical Applications

Different kinds of apples have various nutritional components and prices. Based on this, to identify apple varieties faster, correctly and nondestructively, SPSO‐PFCM and NIR reflectance spectroscopy were used to build a powerful classification model. The experimental results showed that compared with the other four algorithms, SPSO‐PFCM has apparent advantages. A novel method for apple classification of apple varieties using SPSO‐PFCM and NIR spectroscopy was introduced in this paper. With this method, the factory can classify apples quickly and accurately.
Effect of combined compression‐vibration therapy using non‐invasive Beautylizer Therapy Cosmospheres V on the subcutaneous tissue morphology in women with gynoid lipodystrophy (pilot study)
Authors: Pervykh Svetlana , Bychkova Natalya
Published: February 2022

Background

Gynoid lipodystrophy is one of the most common cosmetical problems in women.

Aims

The study aims to examine the pathomorphology and histology of subcutaneous tissue in women with gynoid lipodystrophy exposed to local compression/vibration therapy using a non‐invasive Beautylizer Therapy Cosmospheres V medical device.

Methods

The study enrolled 25 virtually healthy women aged 25–45 years with gynoid lipodystrophy grades I and II. The women included in the study completed a 10‐session month‐long therapeutic course with a non‐invasive Beautylizer Therapy Cosmospheres V medical device. Bioptic punch‐size samples were taken from the gluteal region prior to and following the 10‐session therapy course with the device.

Results

After completing a 10‐session treatment course, a decrease in the mean adipocyte area from 123.08 ± 13.60 μm to 67.14 ± 4.20 μm was observed in punch bioptic samples of subcutaneous fat tissues of women with gynoid lipodystrophy as compared with the pre‐treatment indices.

Conclusion

Thus, local application of 10‐session therapy with a non‐invasive Beautylizer Therapy Cosmospheres V medical device in women with gynoid lipodystrophy demonstrated a positive effect on the histological structure of the hypodermis.
Back to the Basics: A COVID‐19 Surveillance Program Within a Local School District
Authors: Ganesh Prakash R. , May Ross , Dandurand Mitch , Graham Jeffrey , Rose Johnie , Gullett Heidi , Covell Dave , Stange Kurt C.
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

A school district in Northern Ohio implemented a COVID‐19 surveillance program from January 4 to May 21, 2021, as in‐person school and extracurricular activities resumed.

METHODS

Among 560 staff members and >6300 students, random weekly testing was performed on 563 students and weekly for 204 students participating in extracurricular activities, and 553 staff.

RESULTS

Cases of COVID‐19 were identified among 26 staff members and 23 students. Most of those infected were participating in extracurricular activities (14/23) and in the age range of 14‐18. Percent positivity was low (range 0.2‐2.4%) throughout the school surveillance program despite significant changes in positivity rate (2.8‐19.8%).

CONCLUSION

This demonstrates that in a setting employing basic yet consistent mitigation strategies, there is low transmission among young children and adolescents as they return to in‐person classes and activities. Maintaining layered prevention strategies implemented and sustained with fidelity can substantially limit transmission within schools.
Implementation and analysis of an enhanced screening and testing protocol for prediabetes in a dental school patient population
Authors: MacNeil Roderick L. (Monty) , Hilario Helena , Gordon Sharon M. , Degollado Carlos , Malmrose Michael , Lepowsky Steven M.
Published: February 2022

Objectives

This project aimed to enhance the identification of patients at‐risk for prediabetes or diabetes within a dental school patient population by introduction of a modified screening tool and related training of dental residents and students.

Methods

The American Diabetes Association Risk Tool (ADART) was modified by addition of three diabetes‐linked oral health questions. Of the 1477 dental patients screened, 551 (37.3%) indicated an at‐risk status using the modified tool. A subset of 138 patients received follow‐up chairside HbA1c blood testing conducted by dental residents and students. Data was analysed to determine a) the influence of the modifications on the tool's discrimination strength and b) change in the tool's predictive value.

Results

The addition of the 3 oral health questions to the 7‐item ADART resulted in a 9.4% increase in identification of patients at‐risk for pre‐diabetes/diabetes. The predictive value of the tool remained stable. Residents and students successfully incorporated the new screening activities within their assigned clinics.

Conclusions

This project demonstrates that screening for risk for prediabetes/diabetes is both prudent and practical in the dental setting. Dental personnel, including trainees, can successfully incorporate enhanced screening methods within their traditional activities. Further, screening tools used in the dental setting might be enhanced by inclusion of certain oral health variables associated with diabetes. These findings add to emerging knowledge on the importance of screening for prediabetes/diabetes in dental settings and have particular relevance and application to institutional practice.
COVID‐19: Evolving challenges and opportunities for residential and vocational intellectual disability service providers
Authors: Trip Henrietta , Northway Ruth , Perkins Elizabeth , Mirfin‐Veitch Brigit , Adams Reece
Published: February 2022

The sustainability of service provision continues to be a challenge in the field of intellectual disability due to changes in delivery as part of intermittent or ongoing lockdown requirements during the COVID‐19 global pandemic. There are many facets to this that may have temporary or permanent impacts not only on the sector, but ultimately for service access and outcomes for people with intellectual disability themselves. This narrative literature review identifies both opportunities for, and impacts on, service providers across jurisdictions. These are explored in terms of the effects that suspension, adaptation, continuity or the cessation of service delivery have had, and those that are projected. Such impacts include, but are not limited to, changes in service access and delivery, employment roles and responsibilities, financial sustainability and the need to diversify the services and supports provided and how they are delivered. The relevance of these impacts for family carers and people with intellectual disability is also discussed. Nonetheless, there have also been opportunities which inform the shape of service delivery and pandemic planning into the future.
Occurrence and clinical management of urethral obstruction in male cats under primary veterinary care in the United Kingdom in 2016
Authors: Beeston Dave , Humm Karen , Church David B. , Brodbelt David , O'Neill Dan Gerard
Published: February 2022

Background

Urethral obstruction (UO) has a negative effect on welfare of cats.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine incidence, case management, and outcomes of UO in cats in primary‐care practice in the United Kingdom.

Animals

All male cats under veterinary care within the VetCompass database in 2016.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed. The electronic records of all male cats with a clinical note during the study period were searched for UO cases and were manually reviewed for inclusion. Additional demographic and clinical information were extracted on cases.

Results

From the study cohort of 237 825 male cats, there were 1293 incident cases. The estimated UO incidence risk during 2016 was 0.54 (95% CI: 0.51‐0.57). Demographic and clinical data were available for 1108 cases. Antibiotics were administered to 641/1108 (57.9%) cases. Overall repeat catheterization rate was 253/854 (29.6%). Repeat catheterization at 48 hours was less frequent in patients with indwelling catheters (10.1%) vs those that had a catheter placed and then immediately removed (14.8%;P = .04). Death during a UO episode was 329/1108 (29.6%), and 285/329 (88.0%) deaths involved euthanasia.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Antibiotics were commonly prescribed in cats for treatment of UO despite minimal evidence in the clinical records of bacterial cystitis. Repeat catheterization was common and case fatality rate during a UO episode was high. Repeat catheterization within 48 hours of elective removal of a urethral catheter was less common in cats that had previously had indwelling catheters. The majority of cats requiring repeat catheterization survived until the end of the study.
The Legacy of Origen in Gregory of Nyssa’s Theology of Freedom
Authors: Ramelli Ilaria L. E.
Published: February 2022

This essay will argue that what I call Gregory of Nyssa’s ‘theology of freedom’ (which gave rise, among other things, to his powerful theological arguments against slavery and social injustice) is grounded in Origen’s own theology of freedom. I will first introduce the uniqueness of Gregory’s arguments against slavery and social injustice, and their theological bases, pointing out how these, more broadly, are part and parcel of Gregory’s theology of freedom. I shall then investigate briefly Origen’s own all‐important theology of freedom—how freedom is at the centre of Origen’s Trinitarian theology, cosmology, and anthropology. Finally, I shall trace Gregory’s theology of freedom and his arguments against slavery and socio‐economic injustice back to Origen's influence. Indeed, the main reason why Gregory was able to develop such a theology of freedom and use it against slavery and social iniquity is, I will argue, due to his commitment to the Origenian theology of freedom.
Karyomorphological, molecular and morphological evidence for a new species, Centaurea mengenensis (Asteraceae), from Turkey
Authors: Şirin Emrah , Uysal Tuna , Bozkurt Meryem , Ertuğrul Kuddisi
Published: February 2022

A new Centaurea species, C. mengenensis Uysal & Şirin, is described and illustrated from Mengen district, Anatolia, based on morphological and molecular data. To identify its taxonomical position within Centaurea, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) = gene region of the new species was amplified and sequenced. The new species belongs in Centaurea subg. Centaurea as shown by both morphological and molecular data. Its diagnostic characters are presented, including an updated key to related species distributed in Turkey. Additionally, the geographic distribution of the new species, as well as of its relatives, is mapped. The chromosome number of C. mengenensis is 2n = 2x = 18 and its achene surface ornamentation is irregularly sulcate.
Glycosmis albicarpa (Rutaceae: Clauseneae), a new species from southern Western Ghats, India
Authors: Sujana Kanjiraparambil Arjunan , Vadhyar Rakesh G.
Published: February 2022

A new species, Glycosmis albicarpa Sujana & Vadhyar from Kanyakumari wildlife sanctuary of southern Western Ghats, India is described and illustrated. It differs from all other species of Glycosmis by its short and broadly lanceolate leaves, short (3–5 mm long) peduncles, clawed petals and broadly ovoid white fruits. The description is complemented with color photographs, micromorphology of pollen and seed under SEM.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis—An update and rare case presentation
Authors: Thind Taranbir , Dungarwalla Mohammed , Newman Laurence
Published: February 2022

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare condition caused by the abnormal proliferation of a type of dendritic cell of the immune system (Langerhans cells). Accumulation of the cells can take place in one or multiple organs of the body and results in localised tissue destruction. The most commonly affected site is the bones and 50% of these cases present in facial bones, meaning an awareness of the condition by dental specialists is important. Although debated, LCH is currently categorised as a cancerous process that is treated in some cases with chemotherapy. Its first mention in medical literature was in the mid‐1800s but it was not recognised as LCH until 1973. Here we present a case of LCH presenting in the mandibular condyle of a 27‐year‐old female with symptoms commonly associated with temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Failing to respond to simple conservative measures by her general dental practitioner, the patient was referred to her local oral and maxillofacial surgery unit for further management. Complicated by a pathological fracture of the mandible, the diagnosis of LCH required a multi‐disciplinary approach to management and subsequent surgical resection of the lesion and reconstruction with a costochondral rib graft.
Neutralized, enhanced, tokenistic: The influence of formal employment of service‐users on processes of co‐production
Authors: Chauhan Trishna , Croft Charlotte , Spyridonidis Dimitrios
Published: February 2022

Can formally employing service‐users in co‐production roles redress the problematic power imbalances inhibiting co‐production in the public sector? In this paper, we analyze service‐users formally employed in co‐production roles. Through semi‐structured interviews, we illustrate how actors use their voice, experience, and identity to respond to different power imbalances. First, through the process of “inverting professionalism” structural limitations resulted in neutralized co‐production. Second, through the process of “embedding expertise” formally employed service‐users challenged collective expectations of their role and meditated power imbalances, resulting in enhanced co‐production. Finally, through the process of “perpetuating rejection” a new exacerbated power imbalance emerged when their employment became a negative resource, resulting in tokenistic co‐production. We extend understandings of how formally employing service‐users has potential to redress power imbalances. However, we caution against policy taking this for granted and argue that more consideration of the influence of different forms of power is needed.