bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comprehensive functional analysis on the pathogenesis of novel TSPAN12 and NDP variants in familial exudative vitreoretinopathy
Authors: Zhao Rulian , Dai Erkuan , Wang Shiyuan , Zhang Xiang , He Yunqi , Peng Li , Zhao Peiquan , Yang Zhenglin , Yang Mu , Li Shujin
Published: December 2022

Familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) is an inherited blinding disorder; however, the known FEVR‐associated variants account for approximately only 50% cases. Currently, the pathogenesis of most reported variants is not well studied, we aim to identify novel variants from FEVR‐associated genes and perform a comprehensive functional analysis to uncover the pathogenesis of variants that cause FEVR. Using targeted gene panel and Sanger sequencing, we identified six novel and three known variants in TSPAN12 and NDP. These variants were demonstrated to cause significant inhibition of Norrin/β‐catenin pathway by dual‐luciferase reporter assay and western blot analysis. Structural analysis and co‐immunoprecipitation revealed compromised interactions between missense variants and binding partners in the Norrin/β‐catenin pathway. Immunofluorescence and subcellular protein extraction were performed to reveal the abnormal subcellular trafficking. Additionally, over‐expression of TSPAN12 successfully enhanced the Norrin/β‐catenin signaling activity by strengthening the binding affinity of mutant Norrin with FZD4 or LRP5. Together, these observations expanded the spectrum of FEVR‐associated variants for the genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis of FEVR, as well providing a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of FEVR.
Does board gender diversity reduce workplace sexual harassment?
Authors: Au Shiu‐Yik , Tremblay Andréanne , You Leyuan
Published: December 2022

Research Question/Issue

We contrast the predictions of gender socialization theory and “fem‐power washing” (deceptively positioning as a firm promoting female empowerment without any tangible actions) to investigate whether promoting female directors on the board of directors associates with a reduction in the prevalence of firm‐level workplace sexual harassment (SH).

Research Findings/Insights

We estimate the incidence rate of SH through textual analysis of US employees' job reviews published online during the period 2011–2021. We find that an increase of one female director is associated with a 21.81% decrease in workplace SH and that firms with high board gender diversity synchronize the reduction in SH with improved social policies (e.g., policies to better employee relations, health and safety, or diversity challenges). Our results do not support the fem‐power washing theory but rather imply that nominating female directors may have a profound impact on the firm's ethical culture.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

This study validates the ethical dimension of corporate governance: Nominating female directors impacts a firm harassment culture and, by extension, a firm's ethical and corporate culture. This study adds to the governance literature that debates the merits of board gender diversity by highlighting an oft‐ignored channel through which board diversity affects firm value: ethics and corporate culture.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

For boards of directors, having more female directors can curb workplace SH, a behavior that is associated with a severe and lasting negative effect on firm value. For practitioners, regulators, and the business community, this study reinforces the merits of aiming towards more gender‐balanced boards.
Ductal differentiation: A rare phenomenon in Merkel cell carcinoma
Authors: Vanderbeck Kaitlin , Cho Woo Cheal , Aung Phyu P. , Ivan Doina , Rothrock Aimi T. , Torres‐Cabala Carlos A. , Prieto Victor G. , Curry Jonathan L. , Nagarajan Priyadharsini
Published: December 2022

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma that may occasionally present divergent histopathologic features. We present two cases of MCC demonstrating ductal differentiation, one on the lower lip of an 81‐year‐old man and another on the right forearm of a 67‐year‐old man. The histopathologic features included TTF1‐negative, infiltrative, high‐grade basaloid tumor with paranuclear punctate positivity for cytokeratin (CK) 20 and synaptophysin. Rare luminal structures lined by atypical epithelioid cells positive for CEA and CK19 were noted, confirming the presence of ductal differentiation. Although the ductal differentiation is unusual, other histopathologic features and the immunohistochemical profile supported the diagnosis of MCC. Like most divergent features, ductal differentiation is rare in MCC and typically constitutes a very small proportion of the tumor, and is therefore under‐recognized. Although the clinical significance of this feature is unclear, recognition and documentation of ductal differentiation and distinguishing it from other mimics such as acantholysis within squamous nests and entrapped eccrine ducts is essential to determine its clinical significance. We also discuss the differential diagnoses of cutaneous basaloid neoplasms with ductal differentiation.
Large volcanic eruptions elucidate physiological controls of tree growth and photosynthesis
Authors: Cabon Antoine , Anderegg William R. L.
Published: December 2022

Forest productivity projections remain highly uncertain, notably because underpinning physiological controls are delicate to disentangle. Transient perturbation of global climate by large volcanic eruptions provides a unique opportunity to retrospectively isolate underlying processes. Here, we use a multi‐proxy dataset of tree‐ring records distributed over the Northern Hemisphere to investigate the effect of eruptions on tree growth and photosynthesis and evaluate CMIP6 models. Tree‐ring isotope records denoted a widespread 2–4 years increase of photosynthesis following eruptions, likely as a result of diffuse light fertilization. We found evidence that enhanced photosynthesis transiently drove ring width, but the latter further exhibited a decadal anomaly that evidenced independent growth and photosynthesis responses. CMIP6 simulations reproduced overall tree growth decline but did not capture observed photosynthesis anomaly, its decoupling from tree growth or the climate sensitivities of either processes, highlighting key disconnects that deserve further attention to improve forest productivity projections under climate change.
Autonomous driving planning and decision making based on game theory and reinforcement learning
Authors: Duan Weiping , Tang Zhongyi , Liu Wei , Zhou Hongbiao
Published: December 2022

Autonomous driving technology is one of the important methods that avoid the hidden dangers of traffic safety. Although the existing autonomous driving technology can meet some needs of real traffic scenarios, the ability of multi‐agents to effectively generate autonomous driving strategy in complex traffic environments remains to be improved. Aiming at this problem, the automatic drive model based on game theory and reinforcement learning is proposed by combining these two technologies and applying them in multi‐agent cooperative driving, which enables multi‐agents to carry out strategic reasoning with negotiation in traffic scenarios by extending the game description language, and puts forward the constrained multi‐agents deep deterministic policies gradient algorithm. Finally, the related experiments are conducted through the autonomous driving simulation platform, and the experimental results show that the proposed model can effectively generate driving strategies for multi‐agents in complex traffic environments, which verifies the validity and feasibility of the proposed model, and provides the general research basis for multi‐agents autonomous driving.
“Is intimacy contagious?” Intimate safety with parents as a key to emerging adults' social connectedness
Authors: Yoo David , Córdova James
Published: December 2022

Objectives

We examined whether emerging adults' sense of intimate safety with their parents and their adult attachment style would predict emerging adults' social connectedness. Additionally, we investigated whether their social connectedness would mediate the association between emerging adults' sense of intimate safety with their parents and their rumination and anger expression.

Background

Social connectedness is essential to the psychological and relational health of emerging adults, particularly during the renegotiation of their relationships with their parents.

Method

Two hundred sixteen emerging adults (80% female; 61% non‐Hispanic White) completed a survey of close relationship variables.

Results

The results suggest that emerging adults' adult attachment style mediated the relationship between emerging adults' intimate safety with their parents and social connectedness. Additionally, social connectedness mediated the relationship between emerging adults' intimate safety with their parents and their rumination and anger expression.

Conclusion

This research highlights the importance of emerging adults' sense of safety to be their authentic and vulnerable selves in parent–child relationships on emerging adults' development of social connectedness and their mental and relational health.
A critical thermal transition driving spring phenology of Northern Hemisphere conifers
Authors: Huang Jian‐Guo , Zhang Yaling , Wang Minhuang , Yu Xiaohan , Deslauriers Annie , Fonti Patrick , Liang Eryuan , Mäkinen Harri , Oberhuber Walter , Rathgeber Cyrille B. K. , Tognetti Roberto , Treml Václav , Yang Bao , Zhai Lihong , Zhang Jiao‐Lin , Antonucci Serena , Bergeron Yves , Camarero Jesus Julio , Campelo Filipe , Čufar Katarina , Cuny Henri E. , De Luis Martin , Fajstavr Marek , Giovannelli Alessio , Gričar Jožica , Gruber Andreas , Gryc Vladimír , Güney Aylin , Jyske Tuula , Kašpar Jakub , King Gregory , Krause Cornelia , Lemay Audrey , Liu Feng , Lombardi Fabio , del Castillo Edurne Martinez , Morin Hubert , Nabais Cristina , Nöjd Pekka , Peters Richard L. , Prislan Peter , Saracino Antonio , Shishov Vladimir V. , Swidrak Irene , Vavrčík Hanuš , Vieira Joana , Zeng Qiao , Liu Yu , Rossi Sergio
Published: December 2022

Despite growing interest in predicting plant phenological shifts, advanced spring phenology by global climate change remains debated. Evidence documenting either small or large advancement of spring phenology to rising temperature over the spatio‐temporal scales implies a potential existence of a thermal threshold in the responses of forests to global warming. We collected a unique data set of xylem cell‐wall‐thickening onset dates in 20 coniferous species covering a broad mean annual temperature (MAT) gradient (−3.05 to 22.9°C) across the Northern Hemisphere (latitudes 23°–66° N). Along the MAT gradient, we identified a threshold temperature (using segmented regression) of 4.9 ± 1.1°C, above which the response of xylem phenology to rising temperatures significantly decline. This threshold separates the Northern Hemisphere conifers into cold and warm thermal niches, with MAT and spring forcing being the primary drivers for the onset dates (estimated by linear and Bayesian mixed‐effect models), respectively. The identified thermal threshold should be integrated into the Earth‐System‐Models for a better understanding of spring phenology in response to global warming and an improved prediction of global climate‐carbon feedbacks.
Jade material in vitro and in vivo: A study on the anti‐inflammatory and repair efficacy of jade material on the skin
Authors: Shu Xiaohong , Wang Ling , Qu Ruina , Li Li , Wang Xi
Published: December 2022

Objective

The biological safety of natural jade materials and assembled jade‐activated materials on cells and their anti‐inflammatory and damage repair functions, as well as the repair function on sensitive skin, were studied utilizing in vitro cell biology and in vivo.

Methods

Human skin fibroblasts were used as model cells to conduct cytotoxicity experiments in vitro, and the effects on the expression of inflammatory factors and growth factor‐related genes in fibroblasts were explored. The gene expression values of inflammatory factors IL‐1, IL‐6, TNF‐α and cytokines epidermal growth factors, fibroblast growth factors and COL1A1 in fibroblasts were measured by polymerase chain reaction test. Thirty women with sensitive skin were selected to apply a mask containing jade extract three times a week. After two weeks, non‐invasive measures related to skin sensitivity were tested.

Results

We confirmed the presence of anti‐inflammatory effects in both jade materials, with the effects of the assembled activated jade material being superior to that of the natural jade material. Jade extracts significantly increased the gene expressions of EGF, FGF and COL1A1 in HDF. The results of the in vivo study showed that the mask containing jade extract could significantly increase the skin hydration and decrease the rate of transepidermal water loss and skin lactic acid sting test scores after two weeks of use. Subjective evaluations confirmed improvements in skin dryness, smoothness and fineness. No new sensitization occurred in subjects, and the product was non‐irritating. No adverse skin reactions were observed during the test.

Conclusions

The jade materials were able to downregulate the expression of inflammatory factor genes, up‐regulate the expression of growth factor genes, and improve the anti‐inflammation and repair ability of skin. Furthermore, the test results of participants with sensitive skin after using the mask containing jade extract showed that the mask has repairing ability.
Development of stabilized zirconia–alkali salts dual membranes for carbon dioxide capture
Authors: Muccillo Reginaldo , Carvalho Sabrina G. M. , Denaldi Rafael L. , Muccillo Eliana N. S.
Published: December 2022

Molten Na2CO3–K2CO3 (NKC, 56–44 mol%) eutectic compositions were vacuum‐impregnated, at the eutectic temperature, into two porous ZrO2:8.6 mol% MgO (magnesium‐partially stabilized zirconia, MgPSZ) and ZrO2:8 mol% Y2O2 (yttria‐fully stabilized zirconia, 8YSZ) ceramics. Thermogravimetric analyses were performed in mixtures of that composition with MgPSZ and 8YSZ ceramic powders. Before impregnation, porosity was achieved in the two compounds by addition and thermal removal of 30 vol.% NKC. To ascertain the carbonates had filled up through the ceramic body, both sides of the parallel and fracture surfaces of the disk‐shaped impregnated compositions were observed in a scanning electron microscope and analyzed by energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The electrical conductivity of the two ceramics, before and after impregnation, was evaluated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in the 5 Hz–13 MHz frequency range from approximately 530 to 740°C. The permeation of the carbonate ions through the membranes via the eutectic composition was assessed by the threshold temperatures of the onset of the carbonate ion percolation. The objectives were to prepare dual‐phase membranes for the separation of carbon dioxide and for the development of carbon dioxide sensors.
Investigation of microstructure evolution and properties in silica‐based ceramic cores with alumina as a mineralizer
Authors: Pan Zhiping , Guo Jianzheng , Li Shuangming , Xiong Jiangying
Published: December 2022

In this work, silica‐based ceramic cores with alumina as a mineralizer were prepared via an injection molding method, and the effects of alumina on the microstructural evolution and properties at 1450°C (simulating the process of equiaxed castings) and 1550°C (simulating the process of columnar/single crystal castings) were investigated. It was found that alumina promoted the cristobalite crystallization of fused silica refractory during sintering but inhibited the devitrification rate in the subsequent heating. The flexural strength of silica‐based ceramic cores at an ambient temperature and 1450°C improved with an increasing alumina content, whereas the opposite trend appeared at 1550°C. The creep resistances of silica‐based cores were improved significantly and then slightly deteriorated with an increasing alumina content from 5% to 20%, depending on the competition effects of alumina hindering the viscous flow of liquid silica (favorable), but suppressing the devitrification rate (unfavorable). The results of this work show that silica‐based cores need to follow different compositional design principles for equiaxed and columnar/single‐crystal turbine blade castings.
Phase transformation and growth mechanism of RF sputtered ferroelectric lead scandium tantalate (PbSc0.5Ta0.5O3) films
Authors: Gupta Sanju
Published: December 2022

Lead scandium tantalate (PbSc0.5Ta0.5O3, PST), an order/disorder ferroelectric, is a potential candidate for electrocaloric cooling and pyroelectric infrared (IR) detector. In this work, we report the phase transformation kinetics from two series of samples containing pure amorphous and mixture of amorphous and pyrochlore to desired perovskite phase using postdeposition rapid thermal processing (RTP) as well as growth mechanism of RF sputtered PST thin films using excess lead target on platinized silicon (Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si) substrates. We find that small changes in the temperature ramp have a large effect on the degree of perovskite conversion (ferroelectric phase), orientation (crystallographic texture), and long‐range order parameter (< S111 >). Through isothermal annealing, we obtained optimal perovskite phase at ≥700°C temperature. The phase transformation is characterized by spontaneous formation of center‐type in‐plane radial rosette‐like structures revealed by scanning electron microscopy. The PST perovskite crystallites were found to coexist with pyrochlore in RTP annealed films. The volume fractions for perovskite and pyrochlore phase were obtained from the analysis of “rosettes” and respective X‐ray diffraction intensities which helped to determine various parameters associated with phase kinetics (n, k, and activation energy, Ea) and accompanying growth. The effective activation energies of perovskite transition and growth were found to be 332 ± 11 kJ/mol (345 ± 11 kJ/mol) and 114 ± 10 kJ/mol (122 ± 10 kJ/mol), respectively, for pure amorphous only (and mixed amorphous and pyrochlore) phase following nucleation‐growth controlled Avrami's equation. A linear growth rate (n∼1) for the perovskite phase indicates predominant interface‐controlled process and diffusion‐limited phenomena thus inhibiting rosette size owing to reactant depletion and soft impingement at the grain boundary. However, the growth behavior is isotropic in two‐dimension parallel to the plane of the substrates for both sample series. Lead loss was severe for in‐situ growth and RTP combined with conventional furnace annealing than those of RTP only films, which were closer to stoichiometric albeit with excess lead and marginal oxygen vacancies (Vo).
Evaluation of psychometric properties of Turkish version of assessment of work performance among adults with mild intellectual disabilities
Authors: Davutoğlu Ceren , Temizkan Ege , Özberk Eren Halil , Aran Orkun Tahir
Published: December 2022

Background

Assessment of work performance (AWP) is a test for assessing work performance and can be utilised in matching person‐work and applying effective interventions. It was aimed to adjust and to evaluate the validity and reliability of AWP in Turkish with individuals with mild intellectual disability (ID).

Methods

The study was conducted with 243 individuals with mild ID. Of the 243 participants, data gathered from 105 individuals was used to conduct exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and remaining data (138 individuals) was used to conduct confirmatory factor analysis. Internal consistency, construct validity, test–retest reliability, criterion‐related validity and inter‐rater reliability were analyzed.

Results

The AWP showed average to good reliability for individuals with mild ID. The construct validity and internal consistency of the AWP were confirmed with satisfying results; test–retest reliability (ICC >0.92) and inter‐rater reliability (ICC >0.90) were excellent for all domains. The EFA resulted three factors, explaining 66.46% variance; and CFA resulted average fit.

Conclusion

AWP is valid and reliable for evaluating the working performances of individuals with mild ID.
Flood adaptation decision‐making for vulnerable locations using expectation–quantile–investment analysis
Authors: Teixeira Rui , Martinez‐Pastor Beatriz , Vucinic Luka , O'Connor Alan
Published: December 2022

Floods represent one of the major challenges facing human societies. The impacts caused by them are extensive, and efficient flood adaptation will play a key role in the current century. The present work proposes a new approach to decision‐making in flood adaptation aimed at achieving robust adaptation decisions. It consists in evaluating decisions on a triaxial basis that considers expectation, probability quantile and investment in a so‐called expectation–quantile–investment (EQI) evaluation. With such approach it is possible to understand the influence of uncertainties in the probabilistic response of adaptation. While adaptation should minimise expected total costs, it needs also to be robust for competitive levels of investment. Transfer curves that relate events with outcomes are used to infer on the probabilistic character of decisions in a case study of a vulnerable location. Results show that EQI‐informed decisions can distinguish optimality in apparently competitive measures. It is shown that decisions based on one‐dimensional or two‐dimensional aspects of this triaxial rationale may fail to identify important probabilistic outcomes of adaptation, such as, the possibility of large losses with relevant probability of occurrence; and that are of high relevance when uncertainty considerations need to be enclosed in the analysis of adaptation.
Efficacy of oral sulfate tablets for bowel preparation and adenoma detection rate
Authors: Song Ji Hyun , Bae Jung Ho , Yim Jeong Yoon
Published: December 2022

Background and Aim

The adenoma detection rate (ADR), which is closely related to bowel preparation, is the most important factor for colonoscopy quality assessment. New oral sulfate tablets (OSTs) have been developed to improve bowel preparation compliance. This study evaluated the efficacy of OSTs in terms of the ADR and bowel preparation status.

Methods

Medical records of subjects under the age of 65 who underwent colonoscopy from March 2019 to February 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Polyethylene glycol with ascorbic acid (PEG‐A) was used as a bowel preparation for the first half of the study period, and OSTs were used for the second half. In total, 16 971 subjects were included in the study: 9199 (54.2%) used PEG‐A, and 7772 (45.8%) used OSTs. Bowel cleansing quality was assessed by the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (BBPS).

Results

The average age was 50 years. The rate of adequate bowel preparation was higher in the OST group than in the PEG‐A group (97.2% vs 95.0%, P < 0.001). The mean BBPS was also higher in the OST group (8.02 vs 7.75, P < 0.001). The adenomas per colonoscopy (APC), the ADR and the sessile serrated polyp detection rate (SSPDR) were higher in the OST group than in the PEG‐A group (APC 0.56 ± 1.01 vs 0.48 ± 0.91, P < 0.001; ADR 34.5% vs 30.7%, P < 0.001; SSPDR 5.2% vs 3.3%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Compared with PEG‐A, OSTs yielded superior APC, ADRs, SSPDRs, and better bowel cleanliness. Therefore, OSTs are a good alternative for patients who have difficulty taking large‐volume bowel preparation formulations.
A photo‐based communication intervention to promote diet‐related discussions among older adults with multi‐morbidity
Authors: Jih Jane , Nguyen Antony , Woo Jasmin , Tran Wen‐Ching , Wang Abby , Gonzales Nikko , Fung Jennifer , Callejas Jackeline , Nguyen Tung T. , Ritchie Christine S.
Published: December 2022

Background

Little is known about how to best communicate with older adults about dietary behaviors and related factors in complex chronic disease care. Photo‐based communication could promote efficient information exchange and activate patients to effectively communicate their lived experiences. We conducted a pilot study to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a photo‐based patient‐clinician communication intervention to promote dietary discussions in geriatric primary care.

Methods

Older adult patients with 2+ concurrent chronic conditions received in‐person training on photo‐taking with a smartphone before taking photos in response to the prompt, “What aspects of your everyday life affect what you eat and how much you have to eat?” Patients then shared photos and their narratives with their primary care clinician during a clinic visit. Patients and clinicians completed separate audio‐recorded post‐visit interviews to assess perspectives on the intervention. Interview transcripts were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach.

Results

Fourteen patient‐clinician dyads completed the study. All except one patient‐clinician dyad (93%) completed the intervention as trained. 93% of patients and 86% of clinicians reported that they would “definitely” or “probably” be willing to engage in a future visit with photo‐sharing. Patients and clinicians shared similar perspectives on how sharing of photos during the visit enhanced communication and information exchange about dietary practices and other health‐related factors, influenced clinical recommendations made during the visits, and strengthened the patient‐clinician relationship.

Conclusion

Incorporation of a photo‐based patient‐clinician communication intervention to promote discussions regarding diet and other health‐related factors could be a patient‐centered strategy to help deliver comprehensive geriatric primary care.
Exploring the experiences of pregnant women in the U.S. during the first year of the Covid‐19 pandemic
Authors: Williams Courtney E. , Berkowitz Dana , Rackin Heather M.
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we integrate the stress process model with symbolic interactionism to frame our analysis of interviews with 35 women who were pregnant and/or gave birth during the first year of the Covid‐19 pandemic. We detail three stressors, highlight their variation, and discuss how they coped with these stressors. Women reported having to navigate contradictory information about the public health crisis, but Black participants simultaneously endured added strain from a heightened awareness of racialized violence. To cope with an overabundance of precarious and contradictory messages, some women sought out information (i.e., information gatherers), others eschewed information (i.e., information avoiders), and most established protective “bubbles.” Next, women experienced disruptions in pregnancy rituals but coped by reframing their expectations. This stressor, however, was less acute for women with a prior birth. Third, women shared feelings of social isolation and reduced social support, which were intensified if pregnancy complications occurred. Women coped by relying on telecommunication and at‐home monitoring devices. Our study shows how pregnant women experienced and coped through adversity to mitigate stressors amid pandemonium.
Morpho‐molecular identification, characterization and management of Pythium catenulatum, the causative agent of root rot disease in Phaseolus vulgaris (common bean)
Authors: Dubey Manish Kumar , Aamir Mohd , Zehra Andleeb , Yadav Mukesh , Kumari Punam , Gajbhiye Milind H. , Upadhyay Ram Sanmukh
Published: December 2022

In this study, we identified and characterize a plant pathogenic isolate, collected from naturally infested bean (Phaseolus vulgaris var. Anupama) seedlings presenting root rot symptoms from an agricultural land of the Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh, India. Based on morphological features, growth characteristics and the ITS sequencing‐based molecular data, the isolate was assumed very closed to the species of the Pythium genera. However, ITS sequencing data and the BLAST results for gene annotation clustered the identified isolate more closely to the Pythium catenulatum (p‐value e‐value), and therefore, confirmed as P. catenulatum. The pathogenicity assay confirmed the role of the isolate as a root rot causing pathogen. Furthermore, the isolate was tested for its growth under in‐vitro conditions against several environmental parameters including temperature, pH, salt, drought and metals. The Biolog FF MicroPlate method assessed the carbon utilization profile and reported the ability of the isolate in utilizing both carbohydrates and amino acids as a primary energy source. Moreover, in‐vitro colony growth inhibition assay performed with different agrochemicals (fungicides and insecticides) and the dyes determined their efficacy in suppressing the growth and development of the isolated pathogen. The dual culture assay of the isolate along with several fungal and bacterial strains confirmed the antagonistic potential of some tested microbes in delimiting the growth of the pathogen. Overall, the study provides a new sustainable, effective and eco‐friendly solution for controlling the root rot pathogen.
Tonic REM sleep muscle activity is the strongest predictor of phenoconversion risk to neurodegenerative disease in isolated REM sleep behaviour disorder
Authors: Singh Ankur , Williams Stevie , Calabrese Angela , Riha Renata
Published: December 2022

Previous studies have shown that rapid eye movement sleep without atonia during polysomnography can predict the risk of phenoconversion to neurodegenerative disease in patients with isolated rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder. Discrepancy remains with regards to the morphology of rapid eye movement sleep without atonia that best predicts phenoconversion risk. This study aimed to ascertain the predictive value of tonic, phasic and mixed rapid eye movement sleep without atonia in patients with isolated rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder, at time of diagnosis. Sixty‐four patients with polysomnography‐confirmed isolated rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder, including 19 who phenoconverted during follow‐up, were identified from an existing database. Tonic, phasic, mixed and “any” rapid eye movement sleep without atonia activity from the mentalis, tibialis anterior and flexor digitorum superficialis muscles was analysed blind to status using the diagnostic polysomnography. Rapid eye movement sleep without atonia variables were compared between converters and non‐converters. Rapid eye movement sleep without atonia cut‐offs predicting phenoconversion were established using receiver‐operating characteristic analysis. The mean follow‐up duration was 5.50 ± 4.73 years. Phenoconverters (n = 19) had significantly higher amounts of tonic (22.2 ± 19.1%, p = 0.0014), mixed (18.1 ± 14.1%, p = 0.0074) and “any” (mentalis muscle; 58.7 ± 28.0%, p = 0.0009) and all muscles (68.0 ± 20.8%, p = 0.0049) rapid eye movement sleep without atonia at diagnosis than non‐converters. Optimal rapid eye movement sleep without atonia cut‐off values predicting phenoconversion were 5.8% for tonic (73.7% sensitivity; 75.6% specificity), 7.3% for mixed (68.4% sensitivity; 73.3% specificity) and 43.6% for “any” (mentalis muscle; 68.4% sensitivity; 80.0% specificity) activity. “Any” (mentalis muscle) rapid eye movement sleep without atonia had the highest area under the curve (0.809) followed by tonic (0.799). The percentage of tonic rapid eye movement sleep without atonia was the strongest biomarker of phenoconversion in this cohort of patients with isolated rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder.
Effects of thermal processing on the texture and collagen characteristics of ready‐to‐eat chicken claw
Authors: Tang Cheng , Zhou Kai , Xie Yong , Ma Yunhao , Zhu Yichen , Zhang Wendi , Wang Zhaoming , Zhou Hui , Xu Baocai
Published: December 2022

The effects of thermal processing on the texture and collagen properties of ready‐to‐eat chicken claws were investigated and the relationship between the texture of chicken claws and the collagen properties of connective tissue was further discussed. The texture, sensory and collagen characteristics (content, solubility, and structure), and the degradation of insoluble collagen of chicken claws underwent thermal processing at 90°C/30 min, 100°C/30 min, 115°C/15 min, and 121°C/10 min were measured. The results showed that thermal processing significantly reduced the textural parameters (hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, chewiness, and resilience) of chicken claws, and the textural deterioration intensified with the increase in temperature. Thermal processing aggravated the degradation of collagen fibers in cooked chicken claws, resulting in decreased insoluble collagen content and increased collagen solubility. Moreover, higher thermal processing temperature produced more soluble collagen components composed of low‐molecular weight peptides. The textural deterioration of chicken claws caused by thermal processing was related to the decrease of insoluble collagen content and the increase of content of soluble collagen composed of low‐molecular weight peptides. On the one hand, the decreased of insoluble collagen content led to the weakening of connective tissue. On the other hand, low‐molecular weight peptides hindered the cooling renaturation of soluble collagen, leading to the formation of gels with poor mechanical properties.
Outcomes of 434 dogs with non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug toxicosis treated with fluid therapy, lipid emulsion, or therapeutic plasma exchange
Authors: Chalifoux Nolan V. , Butty Emmanuelle M. , Mauro Katie D. , Moyle Rachel B. , Ehrhardt Caryn M. , Robertson James B. , Labato Mary A. , Culler Christine A. , Londoño Leonel A. , Vigani Alessio , Ueda Yu , Suter Steven E. , Lynch Alex M.
Published: December 2022

Background

Traditional management of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) intoxication includes gastrointestinal decontamination, intravenous administration of fluids (IVF), and gastroprotection. Intravenous administration of lipid emulsion (ILE) and therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) are popular novel therapeutic strategies.

Hypothesis

Compare outcomes of dogs treated with IVF, ILE, and TPE for NSAID intoxications and evaluate outcome predictors for drug subgroups.

Animals

Four hundred thirty‐four dogs with NSAID intoxications (2015‐2020).

Methods

Multicenter retrospective study of ibuprofen, carprofen, and naproxen intoxication. An ordinal outcome was defined as mild gastrointestinal, moderate kidney, or signs of severe central nervous system disease.

Results

Signs of neurological disease were overrepresented and acute kidney injury underrepresented in the TPE group among dogs exposed to kidney‐ or CNS‐toxic doses (P = .05), though all TPE dogs with signs of neurological disease had evidence of neurotoxicity at presentation. Dogs treated with IVF had a higher maximal creatinine concentration (median, 1.1 mg/dL; range, 0.4‐8.44 mg/dL) compared with IVF + ILE (median, 0.9 mg/dL; range, 0.4‐6.2 mg/dL;P = .01). Increased maximum time to presentation (P < .001), higher baseline creatinine (P < .001) and PCV (P = .007), and absence of induced emesis (P < .001) were associated with greater clinical severity. Ibuprofen toxicosis was associated with more severe clinical signs compared with carprofen (P = .03). Overall survival rate was 99%.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

NSAID toxicosis generally carries an excellent prognosis in dogs. Despite similar outcomes of lower incidence of AKI in the TPE group, and slightly lower maximal creatinine concentration in dogs treated with ILE vs IVF alone, ILE and TPE should be considered in the management of severe NSAID toxicosis.
Implicit Learning in Production: Productive Generalization of New Form–Meaning Connections in the Absence of Awareness
Authors: Bovolenta Giulia , Williams John N.
Published: December 2022

Second language implicit learning research has shown that a variety of linguistic features can be acquired without awareness. However, this research overwhelmingly uses comprehension tests to measure implicit learning. It remains unclear whether newly acquired implicit knowledge can also be recruited for production. To address this question, we developed a novel paradigm based on elicited recall and false memory that was used to both train participants and test their implicit knowledge in production, including generating new instances of the rule. Participants learned a semiartificial language containing a rule based on one in a natural language (the alternation between Czech spatial prepositionsvandna). Participants who remained unaware of the rule, as assessed by verbal report, nevertheless were able to use it in a production test involving novel items, while believing that they were performing a cued recall test. Even without extensive training, newly acquired implicit knowledge can immediately be evident in production.
Issues in Uyghur phonology
Authors: Mayer Connor , McCollum Adam , Eziz Gülnar
Published: December 2022

This article presents an overview of several significant aspects of the phonology of Uyghur (ISO: uig; pronounced [ʊjˈʁʊr]; Turkic: China). In addition to summarising previous research, we present new data and highlight its relevance for phonological theory. The paper focuses primarily on the processes of backness harmony, rounding harmony, and vowel reduction. Particular attention is paid to the complex, and sometimes opaque, interactions between these processes, as well as the role of phonological exceptionality.
Length‐weight relationships of 12 dominant fish species from a Ramsar Wetland in India: Vembanad Lake
Authors: Roshni Kuttanelloor , Renjithkumar Chelapurath Radhakrishnan
Published: December 2022

The present study describes the length‐weight relationships (LWRs) of 12 dominant finfish species from Vembanad Lake, India, from June 2015 to May 2016. Samples were carried out using a wide range of fishing gears such as gill nets (mesh sizes 20–60 mm), seine nets (mesh sizes 8–16 mm), cast nets (mesh sizes 6–8 mm) and hook and lines. The values of the exponent b ranged from 2.506 (Glossogobius giuris) to 3.305 (Heteropneustes fossilis) and regression parameters R2 from .960 (Carinotetraodon travancoricus) to .995 (G. giuris). The study reports the new maximum total length (TLmax) for Hyporhamphus xanthopterus and first reference regarding length‐weight relationships for Mystus oculatus, Ompok malabaricus and C. travancoricus. The results provide useful information for preparing sustainable resource management plans and conservation strategies for these species in the lake and similar ecosystems.
Analysis of the daylight fireball of July 15, 2021, leading to a meteorite fall and find near Antonin, Poland, and a description of the recovered chondrite
Authors: Shrbený Lukáš , Krzesińska Agata M. , Borovička Jiří , Spurný Pavel , Tymiński Zbigniew , Kmieciak Kryspin
Published: December 2022

We present the description of an observation of a fireball recorded during the sunrise on July 15, 2021. Atmospheric trajectory, impact area, and heliocentric orbit were determined on the basis of three instrumental video records. The terminal part of the fireball was not instrumentally recorded due to clouds. Based on our computations, one meteorite was found in the predicted impact area by Polish searchers. The specimen was, soon after recovery, analyzed for the presence of short‐lived radionuclides and the measurement confirms a very fresh fall, coinciding with the time of the fireball event. The recovered meteorite, Antonin, is an unbrecciated L5 chondrite with shock stage S3, weathering grade W0, and bulk density of 3.42 g cm−3. Unusual for L chondrites, it contains assemblages composed of metal and two sulfides, troilite and mackinawite. We interpret these assemblages to have been formed as products of shock metamorphism and post‐shock annealing on the parent body. This suggests that the thermal and collisional history of the Antonin parent body was complex.
Low‐grade B‐cell lymphoma of the central nervous system with plasmacytic differentiation and amyloid deposition
Authors: Lopez Gianluca , Han Karam , Magaki Shino D. , Song Sophie X. , Salamon Noriko , Kahlon Kanwarpal S. , Keselman Inna , Bari Ausaf A. , Vinters Harry V.
Published: December 2022

A 65‐year‐old woman with a resolved history of epilepsy due to a motor vehicle accident and hippocampal sclerosis presented with recurrent de novo seizures. Brain imaging demonstrated enhancement in the left parieto‐occipital lobe. At histopathological examination, the lesion displayed a diffuse lymphoid infiltrate comprised of small atypical lymphocytes, plasmacytoid lymphocytes, and scattered plasma cells with amyloid deposition. Pathology workup demonstrated a monotypic B‐cell phenotype of the lymphoid infiltrate, expressing lambda light chain restriction and plasmacytic differentiation without MYD88 mutations. The patient had no systemic evidence of lymphoma, plasma cell dyscrasia, or amyloidosis. A diagnosis of low‐grade B‐cell lymphoma of the central nervous system with plasmacytic differentiation and amyloid deposition was made.
Shikonin enhances chemosensitivity of oral cancer through β‐catenin pathway
Authors: Xiang Yang , Si Lujie , Zheng Ying , Wang Huiming
Published: December 2022

Objectives

This study concentrates on exploring the synergistic effect of shikonin on cisplatin against oral cancer.

Methods

To analyze the IC50 value of shikonin, gradient concentrations of shikonin were added to the oral cancer cell culture medium. After the cisplatin‐resistant cell line was established, the effects of cisplatin and shikonin on the survival rate, proliferation, apoptosis and related pathway protein expression of common/drug‐resistant oral cancer cells were compared through MTT, clone formation, flow cytometry, and Western blot experiments. β‐catenin, which had the most significant expression changes, was overexpressed and silenced, and used to design a reverse validation.

Results

Shikonin inhibited the viability of oral cancer cells. Although cisplatin killed some cancer cells, its effect on drug‐resistant cancer cells was significantly reduced. The addition of shikonin enhanced the sensitivity of drug‐resistant cells to cisplatin. Shikonin regulated key proteins in cell proliferation and apoptosis‐related pathways. Among them, shikonin generated the most evident inhibitory effect on β‐catenin. Therefore, β‐catenin overexpression plasmid/siβ‐catenin was transfected into the cells. Silenced β‐catenin was found to reinforce the damaging effect of cisplatin on cancer cells, and overexpressed β‐catenin reversed the effect of shikonin.

Conclusion

By down‐regulating β‐catenin expression, shikonin improves the sensitivity of drug‐resistant oral cancer cells to cisplatin.
Histone acetyltransferase HAM1 interacts with molecular chaperone DNAJA2 and confers immune responses through salicylic acid biosynthetic genes in cassava
Authors: Zhao Huiping , Ge Zhongyuan , Zhou Mengmeng , Bai Ruoyu , Zeng Hongqiu , Wei Yunxie , He Chaozu , Shi Haitao
Published: December 2022

Cassava bacterial blight (CBB) is one of the most serious diseases in cassava production, so it is essential to explore the underlying mechanism of immune responses. Histone acetylation is an important epigenetic modification, however, its relationship with cassava disease resistance remains unclear. Here, we identified 10 histone acetyltransferases in cassava and found that the transcript of MeHAM1 showed the highest induction to CBB. Functional analysis showed that MeHAM1 positively regulated disease resistance to CBB through modulation of salicylic acid (SA) accumulation. Further investigation revealed that MeHAM1 directly activated SA biosynthetic genes’ expression via promoting lysine 9 of histone 3 (H3K9) acetylation and lysine 5 of histone 4 (H4K5) acetylation of these genes. In addition, molecular chaperone MeDNAJA2 physically interacted with MeHAM1, and MeDNAJA2 also regulated plant immune responses and SA biosynthetic genes. In conclusion, this study illustrates that MeHAM1 and MeDNAJA2 confer immune responses through transcriptional programming of SA biosynthetic genes via histone acetylation. The MeHAM1 & MeDNAJA2‐SA biosynthesis module not only constructs the direct relationship between histone acetylation and cassava disease resistance, but also provides gene network with potential value for genetic improvement of cassava disease resistance.
Effective treatment of diabetes, improved quality of life and accelerated cognitive development after pancreas transplantation in a child with type 1 diabetes and allergy to manufactured insulin preparations
Authors: Adamusiak Anna Maria , Ramanathan Karthik , Moe Tracy , Bellin Melena D. , Kandaswamy Raja
Published: December 2022

Background

Insulin hypersensitivity reactions are rare but serious and significantly affect the treatment of diabetes in children.

Methods

A 13‐year‐old girl with type 1 diabetes, hypoglycemic unawareness, and treatment refractory allergy to available insulin preparations underwent a solitary pancreas transplant. Before the pancreas transplantation, she was receiving a continuous subcutaneous infusion of rapid‐acting insulin with an increasing need for antihistamines and steroids, negatively impacting her cognitive and social development. Her diabetes was poorly controlled, and her quality of life was progressively worsening.

Results

Following the transplant, she recovered well from surgery and achieved euglycemia without needing exogenous insulin. She had two biopsy proven episodes of acute cellular rejection, successfully treated. Her cognitive development also accelerated. Notable improvement was noted both in her personal quality of life and her family's overall well‐being.

Conclusions

This is the youngest pancreas transplant recipient with over 1‐year graft survival reported in the literature. Pancreas transplant alone in a teenager without indications for kidney transplantation could be considered a last resort treatment for diabetes when continuing insulin therapy presents a high level of morbidity. A pancreas transplant is a feasible treatment modality for patients with refractory insulin allergy.
Susceptibility of fig cultivars to Diaporthe canker in Iran
Authors: Bolboli Zeinab , Mostowfizadeh‐Ghalamfarsa Reza , Jafari Moslem , Sarkhosh Ali
Published: December 2022

Fig canker is a serious concern in the major fig‐growing region of Iran, Fars Province. The disease reduces yield and the lifespan of fig trees, particularly the dominant commercial dried fig cultivar, Sabz. Four consecutive years of surveys (2019–2022) led to the identification of four distinct canker types (A–D) in infected fig orchards in southern Iran. Morphological identification and multiple gene phylogenetic analyses indicated that 218 (>66% of the total) isolates from infected fig cultivars belonged to Diaporthe cinerascens, all of which were recovered from Type A cankers, that is, trunk cankers with zonation. Based on scales developed by the principal component analysis (PCA) approach of pathogenicity characteristics, D. cinerascens isolates were clustered into three groups: low, moderate and highly aggressive. The susceptibility of 10 drought and/or salinity‐tolerant fig cultivars to a highly aggressive D. cinerascens isolate was evaluated based on five pathogenicity characteristics. These cultivars were clustered into nonsusceptible (cultivar Matti), semisusceptible (the majority of the cultivars) and susceptible (cultivars Dehdez and Gilasi). The present study is the first attempt to assess the response of fig cultivars to the most significant and common pathogen causing fig canker, D. cinerascens, by phenotyping techniques.