bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An mRNA vaccine against SARS-CoV-2: Lyophilized, liposome-based vaccine candidate EG-COVID induces high levels of virus neutralizing antibodies
Authors: Hong H. Christian , Kim Kwang Sung , Park Shin Ae , Chun Min Jeong , Hong Eun Young , Chung Seung Won , Kim Hyun Jong , Shin Byeong Gyu , Braka Abdennour , Thanappan Jayaraman , Jang Sunghoon , Wu Sangwwok , Cho Yang Je , Kim Seok-Hyun
Published: March 2021

In addition to the traditional method of vaccine development, the mRNA coronavirus vaccine, which is attractive as a challenging vaccination, recently opened a new era in vaccinology. Here we describe the EG-COVID which is a novel liposome-based mRNA candidate vaccine that encodes the spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 with 2P-3Q substitution in European variant. We developed the mRNA vaccine platform that can be lyophilized using liposome-based technology. Intramuscular injection of the EG-COVID elicited robust humoral and cellular immune response to SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, sera obtained from mice successfully inhibited SARS-CoV-2 viral infection into Vero cells. We developed EG-COVID and found it to be effective based onin vitrodata, and we plan to initiate a clinical trial soon. Since EG-COVID is a lyophilized mRNA vaccine that is convenient for transportation and storage, accessibility to vaccines will be significantly improved.
A beta-glucosidase of an insect herbivore determines both toxicity and deterrence of a dandelion defense metabolite
Authors: Huber Meret , Roder Thomas , Irmisch Sandra , Riedel Alexander , Gablenz Saskia , Fricke Julia , Rahfeld Peter , Reichelt Michael , Paetz Christian , Liechti Nicole , Hu Lingfei , Meng Ye , Huang Wei , Robert Christelle A. M. , Gershenzon Jonathan , Erb Matthias
Published: March 2021

Gut enzymes can metabolize plant defense metabolites and thereby affect the growth and fitness of insect herbivores. Whether these enzymes also influence herbivore behavior and feeding preference is largely unknown. We studied the metabolization of taraxinic acid β-D-glucopyranosyl ester (TA-G), a sesquiterpene lactone of the common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) that deters its major root herbivore, the common cockchafer larva (Melolontha melolontha). We demonstrate that TA-G is rapidly deglycosylated and conjugated to glutathione in the insect gut. A broad-spectrumM. melolonthaβ-glucosidase, Mm_bGlc17, is sufficient and necessary for TA-G deglycosylation. Using plants and insect RNA interference, we show that Mm_bGlc17 reduces TA-G toxicity. Furthermore, Mm_bGlc17 is required for the preference ofM. melolonthalarvae for TA-G deficient plants. Thus, herbivore metabolism modulates both the toxicity and deterrence of a plant defense metabolite. Our work illustrates the multifacteted roles of insect digestive enzymes as mediators of plant-herbivore interactions.
Dependence of an aquatic insect population on contemporaneous primary production
Authors: Phillips Joseph S. , McCormick Amanda R. , Botsch Jamieson C. , Ives Anthony R.
Published: March 2021

Characterizing the dynamics of energy flow through ecosystems requires quantifying the degree to which primary and secondary production are coupled. This coupling is expected to be tight in ecosystems with high internal production relative to external carbon and energy inputs.

We experimentally quantified the dependence of aquatic insect emergence on fresh primary production, specifically for the midge population in Lake Mývatn, Iceland. Using field mesocosms, we manipulated algal primary production by reducing light availability via shading. We then used dissolved oxygen incubations to estimate fluxes of carbon through photosynthesis (i.e., gross primary production or “GPP”) over the course of the experiment.

We found that elevated GPP was associated with higher emergence rates of adults, as judged both by comparison of emergence across the experimental shading treatments and estimates of in situ GPP within the mesocosms. Furthermore, larger adults emerged earlier than smaller ones, suggesting that asymmetries in resource availability among individuals affected the timing of emergence. Nonetheless, midge emergence was substantial under light-limiting conditions, indicating that while midges benefit from primary production contemporaneous with larval development, they are also capable of completing their life cycles on carbon already existing in the organic matter pool.

Our results show that even in systems with limited allochthonous inputs, contemporaneous primary production may be not necessary for high secondary production and insect emergence. Instead, consumers can develop from consumption of biomass derived from past autochthonous primary production. This suggests that primary production and consumer dynamics can be partially decoupled in time in systems that depend on internal production.
Benchtop Carbon Fiber Microelectrode Array Fabrication Toolkit
Authors: Richie Julianna M. , Patel Paras R. , Welle Elissa J. , Dong Tianshu , Chen Lei , Shih Albert J. , Chestek Cynthia A.
Published: March 2021

Background

Conventional neural probes are primarily fabricated in a cleanroom, requiring the use of multiple expensive and highly specialized tools.

New method

We propose a cleanroom “light” fabrication process of carbon fiber neural electrode arrays that can be learned quickly by an inexperienced cleanroom user. This carbon fiber electrode array fabrication process requires just one cleanroom tool, a parylene-c deposition machine, that can be learned quickly or outsourced to a commercial processing facility at marginal cost. Our fabrication process also includes hand-populating printed circuit boards, insulation, and tip optimization.

Results

The three different tip optimizations explored here (Nd:YAG laser, blowtorch, and UV laser) result in a range of tip geometries and 1kHz impedances, with blowtorched fibers resulting in the lowest impedance. While previous experiments have proven laser and blowtorch electrode efficacy, this paper also shows UV laser cut fibers can record neural signalsin vivo.

Comparison with existing methods

Existing carbon fiber arrays either do not have individuated electrodes in favor of bundles or require cleanroom fabricated guides for population and insulation. The proposed arrays use only tools that can be used at a benchtop for fiber population.

Conclusions

This carbon fiber electrode array fabrication process allows for quick customization of bulk array fabrication at a reduced price compared to commercially available probes.
A metabolomics insight into the Cyclic Nucleotide Monophosphate signaling cascade in tomato under non-stress and salinity conditions
Authors: Miras-Moreno Begoña , Zhang Leilei , Senizza Biancamaria , Lucini Luigi
Published: March 2021

Cyclic Nucleotides Monophosphate (cNMP) are key signalling compounds whose role in plant cell signal transduction is till poorly understood. In this work we used sildenafil, a phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor used in human, to amplify the signal cascade triggered by cNMP using tomato as model plant. Metabolomics was then used, together with plant growth and root architecture parameters, to unravel the changes elicited by PDE inhibition either under non-stress and 100 mM NaCl salinity conditions.

The PDE inhibitor elicited a significant increase in biomass (+62%) and root length (+56%) under no stress conditions, and affected root architecture in terms of distribution over diameter classes. Together with cGMP, others cNMP were modulated by the treatment. Moreover, PDE inhibition triggered a broad metabolic reprogramming involving photosynthesis and secondary metabolism. A complex crosstalk network of phytohormones and other signalling compounds could be observed in treated plants. Nonetheless, metabolites related to redox imbalance processes and NO signalling could be highlighted in tomato following PDE application. Despite salinity damped down the growth-promoting effects of sildenafil, interesting implications in plant mitigation to stress-related detrimental effects could be observed.

HIGHLIGHT

The role of Cyclic Nucleotides Monophosphate in plant cell signal transduction involves regulation of plant growth and architecture, together with a broad biochemical reprogramming of metabolism.
Machine learning approaches to identify core and dispensable genes in pangenomes
Authors: Yocca Alan E. , Edger Patrick P.
Published: March 2021

A gene in a given taxonomic group is either present in every individual (core), or absent in at least a single individual (dispensable). Previous pangenomic studies have identified certain functional differences between core and dispensable genes. However, identifying if a gene belongs to the core or dispensable portion of the genome requires the construction of a pangenome, which involves sequencing the genomes of many individuals. Here we aim to leverage the previously characterized core and dispensable gene content for two grass species (Brachypodium distachyonandOryza sativa) to construct a machine learning model capable of accurately classifying genes as core or dispensable using only a single annotated reference genome. Such a model may mitigate the need for pangenome construction, an expensive hurdle especially in orphan crops which often lack the adequate genomic resources.
National culture and leverage adjustments
Authors: Orlova Svetlana , Harper Grant
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of national culture on leverage speed of adjustment (SOA) across countries.

Design/methodology/approach

We use a partial adjustment model to estimate the impact of national culture (assessed using Hofstede's six cultural dimensions) on leverage SOA.

Findings

We find that culture does significantly affect the degree to which firms deviate from target debt level and the speed of adjustment (SOA) of leverage. High power distance, individualism and masculinity are associated with a slower SOA, while high long-term orientation, uncertainty avoidance and indulgence result in a faster SOA. Additionally, cultural characteristics affect leverage SOA differently when firms are underlevered versus overlevered and when firms have small versus large deviations from the target level of debt. We suggest that these effects can be explained by agency motives.

Research limitations/implications

The results of the study are based on available information for firms from 53 countries.

Originality/value

This study is, to the best of our knowledge, the first to examine the impact of national cultural traits on leverage SOA in international settings.
Impact of daily wearing of fabric gloves on the management of hand eczema: A pilot study in health‐care workers
Authors: Kuwatsuka Sayaka , Kuwatsuka Yutaka , Tomimura Saori , Takenaka Motoi , Terasaka Yoko , Izumikawa Koichi , Morinaga Yoshitomo , Yanagihara Katsuori , Murota Hiroyuki
Published: March 2021

Hand eczema is a major occupational disease, especially in medical workers, reducing their quality of life (QOL) and work productivity. Daily wearing of fabric gloves to prevent loss of moisture and lipids from the surface of the hands has been regarded as good in the management of hand eczema. However, limited evidence is available regarding the efficacy of moisturizing care with daily gloves on hand eczema. This pilot study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of moisturizing intervention with daily wearing of fabric gloves on skin barrier function, disease severity, and microbiome in health‐care workers with hand eczema. Study 1: Nurses in the neonatal intensive care unit or growing care unit with and without hand eczema were recruited in the study. Subjects were instructed to apply moisturizer and wear two types of fabric gloves, common cotton gloves and moisturizing fabric gloves containing malate, for 4 weeks. Study 2: Physicians and health‐care workers were recruited and instructed to wear a cotton glove on one hand at nighttime for 4 weeks. Disease severity, skin barrier function, QOL, and hand microbiome (Study 1) were evaluated. Study 1 found that daily wearing of both types of fabric gloves accompanied by use of topical moisturizers reduced the severity of hand eczema without changing the variation of microbiome. Study 2 found no apparent change between wearing and not wearing cotton gloves. In summary, topical moisturizer is of fundamental importance, and concomitant use of fabric gloves may merely enhance the efficacy of moisturizer in the management of hand eczema.
Somatosensory discrimination impairment in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy as measured by the sense_assess©kids
Authors: McLean Belinda , Taylor Susan , Valentine Jane , Carey Leeanne , Thornton Ashleigh , Elliott Catherine
Published: March 2021

Introduction

To characterise somatosensory discrimination impairment of the upper‐limb across domains of tactile discrimination, limb position sense and haptic object recognition using the sense_assess©kidsand examine associations with upper‐limb motor performance in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods

The sense_assess©kidswas administered at one timepoint to 28 children, aged 6–15.5 years (M = 10.1,SD = 2.4), with hemiplegic CP (right hemiplegian = 15) and Manual Ability Classification System Levels I (n = 11) and II (n = 17). Unimanual motor performance was quantified using the Box and Block Test.

Results

Tactile discrimination was impaired in 18, limb position sense in 20, and haptic object recognition was impaired in 21 of 28 children. Over 80% (23/28) of children had impaired somatosensory discrimination in one or more domains. Low to moderate correlations were observed between each measure of somatosensory discrimination and motor performance. Manual ability classification was associated with limb position sense and haptic object recognition. A moderate inverse correlation (r = −.57,p < .01) exists between the number of somatosensory domains impaired and motor performance.

Conclusion

The frequency of somatosensory impairment in the upper limb of children in our sample was high and associated with manual ability, suggesting a need for routine assessment of somatosensation in this population.
The Evolution of Chinese Angels: Social Ties and Institutional Development
Authors: Xiao Li , Anderson Alistair
Published: March 2021

Informed by Mike Wright's insight on entrepreneurial finance research problems, we examine how Chinese angel finance has evolved with institutional changes over two decades. Our longitudinal cases explore the changing roles of personal ties within strengthening regulatory institutions. Rather than the diminishing role anticipated, we found that personal ties remained vital for investment decisions. Although the improved regulatory environment influenced the extent and volume of investment, encouraging greater and longer investments, personal ties still informed decisions. We conclude that angel finance practice has evolved to match the changing Chinese environment. Social ties no longer comprehensively determine investment decisions. Instead, personal ties complement the improving environment. The trust embodied in ties continues to facilitate deal‐making by quick decisions and simple contracts. Importantly, we noted how trust reshaped moral hazards and agency problems through the moral obligations of ties. Thus, trust in the individual took more account of the business, but remained centred on personal integrity. We also found that ties with government officials, historically vital in uncertain environments, had become much less important as confidence in the regulatory regime improved. The paper contributes to our understanding of institutions and practices. It highlights culture's continuing role by addressing Mike Wright's concerns and using his guidance.
Healthy Leadership in Turbulent Times: The Effectiveness of Health‐Oriented Leadership in Crisis
Authors: Klebe Laura , Felfe Jörg , Klug Katharina
Published: March 2021

Previous research has supported the positive effects of health‐oriented leadership (HoL) on follower health. However, effectiveness in times of crisis is unknown. This study examines whether crises weaken or strengthen the positive relationships of health‐oriented leadership with follower strain and performance. Effectiveness was tested for (1) follower irritation and performance (extra effort) in smaller crises on the team level with a vignette study (N = 257) and (2) follower exhaustion and performance (task proficiency) during the Covid‐19 crisis in a cross‐sectional survey study (N = 196). As expected, the results provided evidence for an increase in follower health with higher health‐oriented leadership but a decrease in health in crises. The positive relationship between health‐oriented leadership and follower health was even stronger in crises. Health‐oriented leadership had a positive relationship with job performance in both studies.

Our findings provide initial evidence that health‐oriented leadership is particularly important for followers affected by a crisis, and that leaders should display health‐oriented leadership in both small‐scale and large‐scale crises. Findings suggest that health‐oriented leadership does not undermine goal achievement but relates positively to performance. More generally, the study contributes to the clarification and deeper understanding of situational contingencies of health‐specific leadership concepts.
Assessment of short‐term response and review of technique of ultrasound‐guided percutaneous A1 pulley release for the treatment of trigger finger
Authors: White Roland Z , Sampson Matthew J
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Ultrasound‐guided percutaneous first annular pulley (A1) release is a non‐surgical management for the treatment of trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis. Trigger finger occurs secondary to inflammation and retinacular sheath hypertrophy with subsequent restriction of the flexor tendons. Trigger finger can have a marked functional impact, with current conservative measures including steroids and/or splinting, and surgical therapy involving open release.

Methods

A population of 20 adult patients with ultrasound proven trigger finger underwent percutaneous release with refined technique. Patients with additional ultrasound proven tenosynovitis received steroid injection.

Results

Of the 20 cases, 18 cases involved the fingers, 2 cases involved the thumb and 14 cases had additional tenosynovitis. All procedures involving the fingers were well tolerated with initial symptomatic and functional relief. At 1‐week post‐intervention, 2 finger cases without concurrent steroid injection represented with pain but not triggering. Cases which did not receive concurrent steroid injection described post‐procedural pain requiring oral analgesia. One case involving the thumb was complicated by no relief with a mild radial digital nerve neuropraxia, with near complete resolution at 6 weeks. The second thumb case reported only partial relief of triggering.

Conclusion

US‐guided percutaneous release of the A1 pulley is an effective procedure in achieving at least short‐term resolution of trigger finger. It is best reserved for fingers due to the challenging anatomy of the thumb.
Barcode UK: A complete DNA barcoding resource for the flowering plants and conifers of the United Kingdom
Authors: Jones Laura , Twyford Alex D. , Ford Col R. , Rich Tim C. G. , Davies Helena , Forrest Laura L. , Hart Michelle L. , McHaffie Heather , Brown Max R. , Hollingsworth Peter M. , de Vere Natasha
Published: March 2021

DNA barcoding and metabarcoding provide new avenues for investigating biological systems. These techniques require well‐curated reference libraries with extensive coverage. Generating an exhaustive national DNA barcode reference library can open up new avenues of research in ecology, evolution and conservation, yet few studies to date have created such a resource. In plant DNA barcoding, herbarium collections provide taxonomically robust material but also pose challenges in lab processing. Here, we present a national DNA barcoding resource covering all of the native flowering plants and conifers of the United Kingdom. This represents 1,482 plant species, with the majority of specimens (81%) sourced from herbaria. Using Sanger sequencing of the plant DNA barcode markers, rbcL, matK, and ITS2, at least one DNA barcode was retrieved from 98% of the UK flora. We sampled from multiple individuals, resulting in a species coverage for rbcL of 96% (4,477 sequences), 90% for matK (3,259 sequences) and 75% for ITS2 (2,585 sequences). Sequence recovery was lower for herbarium material compared to fresh collections, with the age of the specimen having a significant effect on the success of sequence recovery. Species level discrimination was highest with ITS2, however, the ability to successfully retrieve a sequence was lowest for this region. Analyses of the genetic distinctiveness of species across a complete flora showed DNA barcoding to be informative for all but the most taxonomically complex groups. The UK flora DNA barcode reference library provides an important resource for many applications that require plant identification from DNA.
Differences between ethnic groups in self‐reported use of e‐cigarettes and nicotine replacement therapy for cutting down and temporary abstinence: a cross‐sectional population‐level survey in England
Authors: Beard Emma , Brown Jamie , Jackson Sarah E. , Tattan‐Birch Harry , Shahab Lion
Published: March 2021

Background and aims

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has called for research into tobacco harm reduction across ethnicities, genders and socio‐economic status. Although there is increasing research focused on the latter two, relatively few studies have considered ethnic variations. Therefore this study aimed to assess (i) the association between ethnicity and use of e‐cigarettes and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) for temporary abstinence and cutting down, and (ii) trends in prevalence of these over time.

Design

Repeated cross‐sectional household survey.

Setting

England.

Participants

Between April 2013 and September 2019, data were collected on 24 114 smokers, 16+ of age, taking part in the Smoking Toolkit Study (STS).

Measurements

Ethnicity coding included: White, mixed/multiple ethnic group, Asian, Black and Arab/other ethnic group. Smokers reported whether they were currently using e‐cigarettes and/or NRT for cutting down or during periods of temporary abstinence.

Findings

Odds of e‐cigarette use for cutting down and temporary abstinence were significantly lower among those of Asian ethnicity (OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.66–0.93) and Arab/other ethnicity (OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.40–0.83) compared with White ethnicity. Those of mixed/multiple ethnicity had higher odds for NRT us (OR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.04–1.94) compared with those of White ethnicity. Trend analysis indicated that for White ethnicity, e‐cigarette use by smokers for cutting down and temporary abstinence followed an ‘inverse S’ shaped cubic curve indicating an overall rise, whereas NRT use followed an ‘S’ shaped cubic curve, indicating an overall decline. For mixed/multiple ethnicity a similar trend was found for NRT use only, with other ethnicities showing no statistically significant trends (suggesting relative stability over time).

Conclusions

In England, e‐cigarette use by smokers for cutting down and temporary abstinence is less common among Asian and Arab/other ethnicity smokers compared with White smokers. Smokers of mixed/multiple ethnicity are the most likely to be using NRT compared with other ethnic groups for cutting down and temporary abstinence. E‐cigarette use by smokers for cutting down and temporary abstinence has increased over time among White smokers, whereas prevalence in other ethnic groups has remained stable.
Constructing Classes and Imagining Buildings: Urban Renewal and Transactions between Concepts and Materialities in Mumbai
Authors: Holwitt Pablo
Published: March 2021

This paper deals with multi‐directional transactions between concepts and materialities in contemporary processes of urban renewal. Building upon insights gained from debates about the nature of materialities within urban geography, I treat buildings as complex associations of materials, technologies and human beings that are informed by concepts about social stratification and that simultaneously enact these concepts in the physical‐social landscape of the city. Processes of urban renewal therefore need to be understood as both conceptual and material interventions in the setup of the city that restructure the built environment, patterns of cohabitation, experiences of the urban and notions of self and other. I illustrate this approach with recourse to the case of urban renewal in the city centre of Mumbai, arguing that high‐rise buildings emerging from urban redevelopment projects translate the heterogeneity of the Indian middle classes into a spatial vocabulary that contributes to the creation of new social categories.
Ovary structure and oogenesis in internally and externally fertilizing Osteoglossiformes (Teleostei:Osteoglossomorpha)
Authors: Dymek Anna M. , Piprek Rafal P. , Boroń Alicja , Kirschbaum Frank , Pecio Anna
Published: March 2021

In this study, we assessed the ovary structure and early oogenesis in representatives of Osteoglossomorpha, one of the most basal Teleostei groups. We aimed to perform a comparative analysis between internally fertilizing Pantodon buchholzi (Pantodontidae) and externally fertilizing Osteoglossum bicirrhosum (Osteoglossidae), Marcusenius cyprinoides, Brevimyrus niger, Gnathonemus petersii and Mormyrus rume (Mormyridae). Our results indicated differences in ovary structure between P. buchholzi and the externally fertilizing species, as well as a considerable disparity in oocyte organization in all studied species. All species possess ovaries of the cystovarian type. In P. buchholzi, the epithelium lining the lumen was columnar and formed crypts with ciliated and microvillus cells as well as deep invaginations with secretory cells, whereas in the remaining species epithelium was squamous. The organization of oogonia and one‐nucleolus oocytes did not differ between species, there were variations in oocytes at subsequent steps of primary growth, including symmetry/asymmetry of the inner cell structure, differences in Balbiani body formation, presence/absence of zonation of the ooplasm, and differences in the order in which cortical alveoli and oil droplets appeared. These differences may be caused by a long and separate evolution of the families as well as adaptation to insemination in the family Pantodontidae.
Using Wikipedia to measure public interest in biodiversity and conservation
Authors: Mittermeier John C. , Correia Ricardo , Grenyer Rich , Toivonen Tuuli , Roll Uri
Published: March 2021

The recent growth of online big data offers opportunities for rapid and inexpensive measurement of public interest. Conservation culturomics is an emerging research area that uses online data to study human–nature relationships for conservation. Methods for conservation culturomics, though promising, are still being developed and refined. We considered the potential of Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia, as a resource for conservation culturomics and outlined methods for using Wikipedia data in conservation. Wikipedia's large size, widespread use, underlying data structure, and open access to both its content and usage analytics make it well suited to conservation culturomics research. Limitations of Wikipedia data include the lack of location information associated with some metadata and limited information on the motivations of many users. Seven methodological steps to consider when using Wikipedia data in conservation include metadata selection, temporality, taxonomy, language representation, Wikipedia geography, physical and biological geography, and comparative metrics. Each of these methodological decisions can affect measures of online interest. As a case study, we explored these themes by analyzing 757 million Wikipedia page views associated with the Wikipedia pages for 10,099 species of birds across 251 Wikipedia language editions. We found that Wikipedia data have the potential to generate insight for conservation and are particularly useful for quantifying patterns of public interest at large scales.
Combining culturomic sources to uncover trends in popularity and seasonal interest in plants
Authors: Vardi Reut , Mittermeier John C. , Roll Uri
Published: March 2021

Culturomic tools enable the exploration of trends in human–nature interactions, although they entail inherent biases and necessitate careful validation. Furthermore, people may engage with nature across different culturomic data sets differently. We evaluated people's digital interest and engagement with plant species based on Wikipedia and Google data and explored the conservation implications of these temporal interest patterns. As a case study, we explored the digital footprints of the most popular plant species in Israel. We analyzed 4 years of daily page views from Hebrew Wikipedia and 10 years of daily Google search volume in Israel. We modeled popularity of plant species in these 2 data sets based on a suite of plant attributes. We further explored the seasonal trends of people's interest in each species. We found differences in how people interacted digitally with plants in Wikipedia and Google. Overall, in Google, searches for species that have utility to humans were more common, whereas in Wikipedia, plants that serve as cultural emblems received more attention. Furthermore, in Google, popular species attracted more attention over time, opposite to the trend in Wikipedia. In Google, interest in species with short bloom duration exhibited more pronounced seasonal patterns, whereas in Wikipedia, seasonality of interest increased as bloom duration increased. Together, our results suggest that people's digital interactions with nature may be inherently different depending on the sources explored, which may affect use of this information for conservation. Although culturomics holds much promise, better understanding of its underpinnings is important when translating insights into conservation actions.
Digital data sources and methods for conservation culturomics
Authors: Correia Ricardo A. , Ladle Richard , Jarić Ivan , Malhado Ana C. M. , Mittermeier John C. , Roll Uri , Soriano‐Redondo Andrea , Veríssimo Diogo , Fink Christoph , Hausmann Anna , Guedes‐Santos Jhonatan , Vardi Reut , Di Minin Enrico
Published: March 2021

Ongoing loss of biological diversity is primarily the result of unsustainable human behavior. Thus, the long‐term success of biodiversity conservation depends on a thorough understanding of human–nature interactions. Such interactions are ubiquitous but vary greatly in time and space and are difficult to monitor efficiently at large spatial scales. However, the Information Age also provides new opportunities to better understand human–nature interactions because many aspects of daily life are recorded in a variety of digital formats. The emerging field of conservation culturomics aims to take advantage of digital data sources and methods to study human–nature interactions and thus to provide new tools for studying conservation at relevant temporal and spatial scales. Nevertheless, technical challenges associated with the identification, access, and analysis of relevant data hamper the wider adoption of culturomics methods. To help overcome these barriers, we propose a conservation culturomics research framework that addresses data acquisition, analysis, and inherent biases. The main sources of culturomic data include web pages, social media, and other digital platforms from which metrics of content and engagement can be obtained. Obtaining raw data from these platforms is usually desirable but requires careful consideration of how to access, store, and prepare the data for analysis. Methods for data analysis include network approaches to explore connections between topics, time‐series analysis for temporal data, and spatial modeling to highlight spatial patterns. Outstanding challenges associated with culturomics research include issues of interdisciplinarity, ethics, data biases, and validation. The practical guidance we offer will help conservation researchers and practitioners identify and obtain the necessary data and carry out appropriate analyses for their specific questions, thus facilitating the wider adoption of culturomics approaches for conservation applications.
Prevalence and predictors of chronic postsurgical pain after colorectal surgery: A prospective study
Authors: Jin Juying , Chen Qibin , Min Su , Du Xunsong , Zhang Dong , Qin Peipei
Published: March 2021

Aim

The aim was to investigate the incidence, characteristics and the potential predictors of chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) after colorectal surgery.

Method

Patients who underwent colorectal surgery at our institution from July 2014 to December 2016 were prospectively enrolled in this study. Perioperative potential demographic, clinical and psychological predictors for CPSP were collected. The follow‐up visits were conducted through telephone interviews at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. The interview questionnaire comprised items regarding pain intensity, frequency, site, analgesic administration and impact on activities of daily living.

Results

A total of 624 patients completed the 6‐month follow‐up and were included in the analysis. CPSP was reported by 32.1% of these patients at 3 months and 21.8% at 6 months after colorectal surgery. The pain interfered with several activities of daily living in a considerable proportion of CPSP cases. At 3 months, the identified predictors of CPSP were young age, preoperative abdominal pain and pain elsewhere, preoperative anxiety and depression, longer duration of surgery, and high pain intensity on movement within 24 h after surgery. Predictors of CPSP at 6 months were young age, preoperative abdominal pain, preoperative anxiety, longer duration of surgery, and high pain intensity on movement within 24 h after surgery.

Conclusion

Chronic pain after colorectal surgery is a common complication associated with young age, preoperative abdominal pain and pain elsewhere, preoperative anxiety and depression, longer duration of surgery, and high pain intensity on movement within 24 h after surgery.
Incremental value of three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography over the two‐dimensional technique in the assessment of a partially detached MitraClip
Authors: Meers Jacob B. , Nanda Navin C. , Elmarzouky Zeyad M. , Dulal Subash , Vardas Panos N. , Ahmed Mustafa I.
Published: March 2021

We describe an elderly male patient with two MitraClip devices, one fixed and the other detached, in whom live/real‐time three‐dimensional echocardiography (3DTEE) provided incremental value and additional information compared to two‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2DTEE). 3DTEE offered the ability to comprehensively assess the mitral valve (MV) utilizing full volume and multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) modes. 3DTEE proved useful in assessing the position of the properly attached and the partially detached MitraClip, including assessment of orifice size and degree of mitral regurgitation (MR). In addition, trapping of MV chordae by both clips was noted in the 3DTEE image dataset and confirmed at the time of surgery. Chordal trapping was not detected by 2DTEE. 3DTEE proved useful in more accurately estimating the severity of residual MR with the MitraClips in place since the regurgitant jet vena contracta (VC) could be viewed en face and VC area measured by planimetry in the correct imaging plane as compared to limited linear images from 2DTEE.
Accounting for species interactions is necessary for predicting how arctic arthropod communities respond to climate change
Authors: Abrego Nerea , Roslin Tomas , Huotari Tea , Ji Yinqiu , Schmidt Niels Martin , Wang Jiaxin , Yu Douglas W. , Ovaskainen Otso
Published: March 2021

Species interactions are known to structure ecological communities. Still, the influence of climate change on biodiversity has primarily been evaluated by correlating individual species distributions with local climatic descriptors, then extrapolating into future climate scenarios. We ask whether predictions on arctic arthropod response to climate change can be improved by accounting for species interactions. For this, we use a 14‐year‐long, weekly time series from Greenland, resolved to the species level by mitogenome mapping. During the study period, temperature increased by 2°C and arthropod species richness halved. We show that with abiotic variables alone, we are essentially unable to predict species responses, but with species interactions included, the predictive power of the models improves considerably. Cascading trophic effects thereby emerge as important in structuring biodiversity response to climate change. Given the need to scale up from species‐level to community‐level projections of biodiversity change, these results represent a major step forward for predictive ecology.
Passive traps and sampling bias: Social effects and personality affect trap entry by sticklebacks
Authors: Kressler Molly M. , Gerlam Amy , Spence‐Jones Helen , Webster Mike M.
Published: March 2021

Researchers routinely quantify the behaviour of subsets of animals, using their findings to make inferences about wider populations. Broader conclusions, however, may be inaccurate if the subjects that are tested are not representative of these populations. One way that this can arise is through sampling bias, which can occur if the method of collecting the test subjects disproportionately selects those with particular attributes, such that they end up being over‐ or under represented within the sample. Passive traps are associated with such sampling biases and have been shown to target certain behavioural phenotypes in a range of species. Here we asked whether funnel‐type fish traps were more likely to target more active and more social sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus). We found that more subjects entered the traps when they already contained conspecifics and that individual measures of activity predicted trap entry, with more active fish being captured sooner both when the traps already contained conspecifics and when they were empty. Unexpectedly, less‐social fish were captured sooner when the traps contained conspecifics. Sampling biases have the potential to skew the data collected by researchers and we therefore highlight the need to acknowledge and discuss potential for sampling biases and any consequences that may arise from this in published work. In the longer term, research that estimates the potential for sampling biases for various collection methods and species would be a valuable resource for helping to devise more representative sampling designs.
Emerging glyco‐based strategies to steer immune responses
Authors: Anderluh Marko , Berti Francesco , Bzducha‐Wróbel Anna , Chiodo Fabrizio , Colombo Cinzia , Compostella Federica , Durlik Katarzyna , Ferhati Xhenti , Holmdahl Rikard , Jovanovic Dragana , Kaca Wieslaw , Lay Luigi , Marinovic‐Cincovic Milena , Marradi Marco , Ozil Musa , Polito Laura , Reina‐Martin Josè Juan , Reis Celso A. , Sackstein Robert , Silipo Alba , Švajger Urban , Vaněk Ondřej , Yamamoto Fumiichiro , Richichi Barbara , van Vliet Sandra J.
Published: March 2021

Glycan structures are common posttranslational modifications of proteins, which serve multiple important structural roles (for instance in protein folding), but also are crucial participants in cell–cell communications and in the regulation of immune responses. Through the interaction with glycan‐binding receptors, glycans are able to affect the activation status of antigen‐presenting cells, leading either to induction of pro‐inflammatory responses or to suppression of immunity and instigation of immune tolerance. This unique feature of glycans has attracted the interest and spurred collaborations of glyco‐chemists and glyco‐immunologists to develop glycan‐based tools as potential therapeutic approaches in the fight against diseases such as cancer and autoimmune conditions. In this review, we highlight emerging advances in this field, and in particular, we discuss on how glycan‐modified conjugates or glycoengineered cells can be employed as targeting devices to direct tumor antigens to lectin receptors on antigen‐presenting cells, like dendritic cells. In addition, we address how glycan‐based nanoparticles can act as delivery platforms to enhance immune responses. Finally, we discuss some of the latest developments in glycan‐based therapies, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T cells to achieve targeting of tumor‐associated glycan‐specific epitopes, as well as the use of glycan moieties to suppress ongoing immune responses, especially in the context of autoimmunity.
A universal method for rapid identification of alfalfa and burr medic seeds with an emphasis on discriminating different forage species
Authors: Wu Yuguo , Liu Jie , Luo Dong , Deng Hao , Zhou Qiang , Wang Yanrong , Liu Zhipeng
Published: March 2021

Unlike many crop seeds which are large in size, forage seeds are relatively small. Moreover, some forage seeds from the same genus, or even different genera, share similar morphologies in terms of colour, size, weight and so on. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and burr medic (Medicago polymorpha L.) also share similar morphology. However, alfalfa is a perennial, cross‐pollinated herbaceous species, whereas burr medic is considered an annual, self‐pollinating plant. Therefore, a universal and rapid method of discriminating burr medic seeds from alfalfa seeds or other similar forage seeds from different plant species is needed. Previous methods of discriminating similar‐looking forage seeds have been shown to be unreliable or time consuming. Here, a universal method that combines polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis techniques was developed to discriminate alfalfa and burr medic. Based on the differences in the lengths of homologous genes caused by insertions and deletions between two species, a pair of primers was designed to discriminate the accessions of 15 alfalfa and 9 burr medic via visualizing the clearly different PCR amplicon sizes. In addition, the melting curve analysis was performed to investigate the specificity and reliability of the primer pair. The results showed two different melting peaks between the two species, further demonstrating this method can accurately and sensitively identify the two species. Thus, we believe that this method has the great potential to be extensively applied for the identification of contaminated seeds and breeding of forages.
Developing Atom Probe Tomography of Phyllosilicates in Preparation for Extra‐Terrestrial Sample Return
Authors: Daly Luke , Lee Martin R. , Darling James R. , McCarrol Ingrid , Yang Limei , Cairney Julie , Forman Lucy V. , Bland Phillip A. , Benedix Gretchen K. , Fougerouse Denis , Rickard William D. A. , Saxey David W. , Reddy Steven M. , Smith William , Bagot Paul A. J.
Published: March 2021

Hydrous phyllosilicate minerals, including the serpentine subgroup, are likely to be major constituents of material that will be bought back to Earth by missions to Mars and to primitive asteroids Ryugu and Bennu. Small quantities (< 60 g) of micrometre‐sized, internally heterogeneous material will be available for study, requiring minimally destructive techniques. Many conventional methods are unsuitable for phyllosilicates as they are typically finely crystalline and electron beam‐sensitive resulting in amorphisation and dehydration. New tools will be required for nanoscale characterisation of these precious extra‐terrestrial samples. Here we test the effectiveness of atom probe tomography (APT) for this purpose. Using lizardite from the Ronda peridotite, Spain, as a terrestrial analogue, we outline an effective analytical protocol to extract nanoscale chemical and structural measurements of phyllosilicates. The potential of APT is demonstrated by the unexpected finding that the Ronda lizardite contains SiO‐rich nanophases, consistent with opaline silica that formed as a by‐product of the serpentinisation of olivine. Our new APT approach unlocks previously unobservable nanominerals and nanostructures within phyllosilicates owing to resolution limitations of more established imaging techniques. APT will provide unique insights into the processes and products of water/rock interaction on Earth, Mars and primitive asteroids.
Unsanitized writing practices: Attending to affect and embodiment throughout the research process
Authors: van Eck Dide , van Amsterdam Noortje , van den Brink Marieke
Published: March 2021

Using examples from an ethnographic study of aircraft cleaning, we discuss and illustrate how “writing differently” can be performed throughout the research process—in the literature review, data collection, data analysis, and writing up. We argue that writing differently is an ongoing methodological tool in order to rethink/refeel research practices in ways that generate affective, embodied and caring accounts of empirical organizational contexts, particularly when marginalization is key such as in cleaning work. We turn to poetry to better understand and portray the affective and embodied intensities in different phases in the research project. Furthermore, instead of presenting a sanitized authoritative account of writing so that it becomes recognizable as academic knowledge, we leave in the messiness, struggles, and insecurities in “doing” writing differently.
China: Towards the introduction of dependency/long‐term care insurance
Authors: Gruat Jean‐Victor , Chuan Shi
Published: March 2021

The Chinese social security system has been the subject of numerous publications, which have made policy developments more accessible to researchers and administrators from all countries. However, the steps introduced in response to growing demands for intervention by the authorities in favour of dependent persons have remained poorly documented in the international literature. The purpose of this article is to take stock of pilot experiments in this field since the beginning of the 13th Five‐Year Plan (2016–2020) with regard to their policy objective, operating mode and financing modalities.
Barriers and enablers of recognition and response to deteriorating patients in the acute hospital setting: A theory‐driven interview study using the Theoretical Domains Framework
Authors: Smith Duncan , Cartwright Martin , Dyson Judith , Hartin Jillian , Aitken Leanne M.
Published: March 2021

Aim

To explore barriers and enablers of recognition and response to signs of patient deterioration by nursing staff in an acute hospital.

Design

A theory‐driven interview study underpinned by the Theoretical Domains Framework of behaviour change.

Methods

Between 07/01/2019 and 18/12/2019 a purposive sample of registered nurses and healthcare assistants was recruited to participate in a semi‐structured (audio‐recorded) interview, to explore the determinants of seven specified behaviours of the afferent limb. Anonymised transcripts were deductively coded (using the 14 Theoretical Domains Framework domains as coding categories) and then extracts within each domain were inductively analysed to synthesise belief statements and themes. Prioritisation criteria from published literature were applied.

Results

Thirty‐two semi‐structured interviews were conducted. From 1,888 quotes, 184 belief statements and 66 themes were synthesised. One hundred and forty‐six belief statements, represented by 58 themes, met prioritisation criteria. Nine domains of the Theoretical Domains Framework were of high importance:Knowledge;Social,Professional Role and Identity;Beliefs about Consequences;Reinforcement;Intentions;Goals;Memory,Attention and Decision Processes;Environment,Context and Resources and Social Influences.

Conclusions

Barriers and enablers most likely to impact on nursing staff afferent limb behaviour were identified in nine domains of the Theoretical Domains Framework.