bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term urbanization impacts the eastern golden frog (Pelophylax plancyi) in Shanghai City: Demographic history, genetic structure, and implications for amphibian conservation in intensively urbanizing environments
Authors: Wei Xu , Huang Meiling , Yue Qu , Ma Shuo , Li Ben , Mu Zhiqiang , Peng Chuan , Gao Wenxuan , Liu Wenli , Zheng Jiaxin , Weng Xiaodong , Sun Xiaohui , Zuo Qingqiu , Bo Shunqi , Yuan Xiao , Zhang Wei , Yang Gang , Ding Youzhong , Wang Xiaoming , Wang Tianhou , Hua Panyu , Wang Zhenghuan
Published: October 2020

Understanding the mechanisms of how urbanization influences the evolution of native species is vital for urban wildlife ecology and conservation in the Anthropocene. With thousands of years of agriculture‐dominated historical urbanization followed by 40 years of intensive and rapid urbanization, Shanghai provides an ideal environment to study how the two‐stage urbanization process influences the evolution of indigenous wildlife, especially of anuran species. Therefore, in this study, we used mitochondrial Cyt‐b gene, microsatellite (SSR), and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data to evaluate the demographic history and genetic structure of the eastern golden frog (Pelophylax plancyi), by sampling 407 individuals from 15 local populations across Shanghai, China. All local populations experienced bottlenecks during historical urbanization, while the local populations in urban areas maintained comparable contemporary effective population sizes (Ne) and genetic diversity with suburban and rural populations. Nevertheless, the rapid modern urbanization has already imposed significant negative effects to the integrity of populations. The 15 local populations were differentiated into eight genetic clusters, showing a spatial distribution pattern consistent with the current urbanization gradient and island–mainland geography. Although moderate gene flow still occurred from the rural peripheral cluster to urban and suburban clusters, population fragmentation was more serious in the urban and suburban populations, where higher urbanization levels within 2‐km radius areas showed significant negative relationships to the Ne and genetic diversity of local populations. Therefore, to protect urban wildlife with limited dispersal ability, improving conditions in fragmented habitat remnants might be most essential for local populations living in more urbanized areas. Meanwhile, we highlight the need to preserve large unfragmented rural habitats and to construct corridor networks to connect discrete urban habitat remnants for the long‐term wildlife conservation in intensively urbanizing environments.
Equine influenza vaccination in the UK: Current practices may leave horses with suboptimal immunity
Authors: Wilson Amie , Pinchbeck Gina , Dean Rachel , McGowan Catherine
Published: October 2020

Background

Vaccination is integral to preventive healthcare. Despite numerous guidelines on equine vaccination, evidence of current vaccination practices is lacking.

Objectives

To describe current vaccination practices advised by vets treating horses in the United Kingdom (UK) and compare practices with manufacturer datasheets and current guidelines.

Study design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

An online questionnaire was distributed using email addresses acquired through professional registration listings and social media, targeting vets who treat horses in the UK. The questionnaire collected demographic data and information regarding vaccination practices and vaccine hesitancy. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed.

Results

Questionnaires were completed by 304 UK vets working with horses used for leisure (97.4%, n = 296/304), competition (86.2%, n = 262/304), stud‐work (47.7%, n = 145/304) and racing (40.5%, n = 123/304). Variation was identified in vaccine protocols for competition and noncompetition horses. Fifty‐seven per cent (n = 170/298) of respondents reported variation in advised ‘booster’ frequency; most commonly (n = 118) advising a 6‐monthly vaccination in competition horses and annual vaccination in noncompetition horses. Most common vaccination guidelines volunteered were British Horseracing Authority (68.8%, n = 172/250) and Federation Equestre Internationale (66.4%, n = 166/250). Most vaccination practices were not consistent with datasheet guidance. Only 7.7% (n = 23/300) of respondents complied with datasheet timeframes between the second and third vaccination. Adverse events following vaccination in the previous year were encountered by 66% (n = 199/304) of respondents, representing 2760 adverse events; but only 526 (19.1%) cases were reported to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate. Most common reactions were transient, including stiffness (931), localised swelling (835), lethargy (559) and pyrexia (355). 86.4% respondents reported vaccine hesitancy from horse owners, most commonly due to perception of over‐vaccination, cost and concern regarding adverse events.

Main limitations

Potential selection, respondent and recall bias. The recent Equine Influenza (EI) and Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) outbreaks in the UK may have altered responses.

Conclusions

Current equine vaccination practices, although complying with competition rules, are mostly noncompliant with datasheet guidelines, potentially risking suboptimal immunity.
The effects of aging on host resistance and disease tolerance to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Mok Darren Z. L. , Chan Candice Yuen Yue , Ooi Eng Eong , Chan Kuan Rong
Published: October 2020

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) crisis caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has triggered a large‐scale pandemic that is afflicting millions of individuals in over 200 countries. The clinical spectrum caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 infections can range from asymptomatic infection to mild undifferentiated febrile illness to severe respiratory disease with multiple complications. Elderly patients (aged 60 and above) with comorbidities such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus appear to be at highest risk of a severe disease outcome. To protect against pulmonary immunopathology caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, the host primarily depends on two distinct defense strategies: resistance and disease tolerance. Resistance is the ability of the host to suppress and eliminate incoming viruses. By contrast, disease tolerance refers to host responses that promote host health regardless of their impact on viral replication. Disruption of either resistance or disease tolerance mechanisms or both could underpin predisposition to elevated risk of severe disease during viral infection. Aging can disrupt host resistance and disease tolerance by compromising immune functions, weakening of the unfolded protein response, progressive mitochondrial dysfunction, and altering metabolic processes. A comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying declining host defense in elderly individuals could thus pave the way to provide new opportunities and approaches for the treatment of severe COVID‐19.
Functional response of the soil microbial community to biochar applications
Authors: Xu Wenhuan , Whitman William B. , Gundale Michael J. , Chien Chuan‐Chi , Chiu Chih‐Yu
Published: October 2020

Biochar has the potential to mitigate the impacts of climate change and soil degradation by simultaneously sequestering C in soil and improving soil quality. However, the mechanism of biochar's effect on soil microbial communities remains unclear. Therefore, we conducted a global meta‐analysis, where we collected 2,110 paired observations from 107 published papers and used structural equation modeling (SEM) to analyze the effects of biochar on microbial community structure and function. Our result indicated that arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal abundance, microbial biomass C, and functional richness increased with biochar addition regardless of loads, time since application, and experiment types. Results from mixed linear model analysis suggested that soil respiration and actinomycetes (ACT) abundance decreased with biochar application. With the increase of soil pH, the effect of biochar on fungal abundance and C metabolic ability was lessened. Higher biochar pH associated with higher pyrolysis temperatures reduced the abundance of bacteria, fungi, ACT, and soil microbes feeding on miscellaneous C from Biolog Eco‐plate experiments. SEM that examined the effect of biochar properties, load, and soil properties on microbial community indicated that fungal abundance was the dominant factor affecting the response of the bacterial abundance to biochar. The response of bacterial abundance to biochar addition was soil dependent, whereas fungi abundance was mostly related to biochar load and pyrolysis temperature. Based on soil conditions, controlling biochar load and production conditions would be a direct way to regulate the effect of biochar application on soil microbial function and increase the capacity to sequester C.
Cross‐cultural validation of the patient‐practitioner orientation scale among primary care professionals in Spain
Authors: Perestelo‐Pérez Lilisbeth , Rivero‐Santana Amado , González‐González Ana Isabel , Bermejo‐Caja Carlos Jesús , Ramos‐García Vanesa , Koatz Débora , Torres‐Castaño Alezandra , Ballester Marta , Muñoz‐Balsa Marcos , del Rey‐Granado Yolanda , Pérez‐Rivas Francisco Javier , Canellas‐Criado Yolanda , Ramírez‐Puerta Ana Belén , Pacheco‐Huergo Valeria , Orrego Carola
Published: October 2020

Background

In recent decades, many self‐report instruments have been developed to assess the extent to which patients want to be informed and involved in decisions about their health as part of the concept of person‐centred care (PCC). The main objective of this research was to translate, adapt and validate the Patient‐Practitioner Orientation Scale (PPOS) using a sample of primary care health‐care professionals in Spain.

Methods

Baseline analysis of PPOS scores for 321 primary care professionals (general practitioners and nurses) from 63 centres and 3 Spanish regions participating in a randomized controlled trial. We analysed missing values, distributions and descriptive statistics, item‐to‐scale correlations and internal consistency. Performed were confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) of the 2‐factor model (sharing and caring dimensions), scale depuration and principal component analysis (PCA).

Results

Low inter‐item correlations were observed, and the CFA 2‐factor model only obtained a good fit to the data after excluding 8 items. Internal consistency of the 10‐item PPOS was acceptable (0.77), but low for individual subscales (0.70 and 0.55). PCA results suggest a possible 3‐factor structure. Participants showed a patient‐oriented style (mean = 4.46, SD = 0.73), with higher scores for caring than sharing.

Conclusion

Although the 2‐factor model obtained empirical support, measurement indicators of the PPOS (caring dimension) could be improved. Spanish primary care health‐care professionals overall show a patient‐oriented attitude, although less marked in issues such as patients’ need for and management of medical information.
Clinical assessment of the utility of metagenomic next‐generation sequencing in pediatric patients of hematology department
Authors: Shen Heping , Shen Diying , Song Hua , Wu Xueqin , Xu Cong , Su Guangyu , Liu Chao , Zhang Jingying
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Metagenomic Next‐Generation Sequencing (mNGS) is an emerging technique for microbial identification and diagnosis of infectious diseases. The clinical utility of mNGS, especially its real‐world impact on antimicrobial treatment and patient outcome has not been systematically evaluated.

Methods

We prospectively assessed the effectiveness of mNGS in 70 febrile inpatients with suspected infections at Hematology department of the Children's Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health. 69/70 patients were given empirical antibiotics prior to mNGS. A total of 104 samples (62 plasma, 34 throat swabs, 4 bone marrow, 4 bronchoalveolar lavage) were collected on day 1‐28 (mean 6.9) following symptom onset and underwent mNGS testing.

Results

Traditional microbiological tests discovered causal microorganisms in 5/70 (7.14%) patients, which were also detected by mNGS. In addition, mNGS reported possible pathogens when routine tests were negative. Antibiotics were adjusted accordingly in 55/70 (78.6%) patients that led to improvement/relief of symptoms within 3 days. In contrast, mNGS results were considered irrelevant in 15/70 (21.4%) patients by a board of clinicians, based on biochemical, serological, imaging evidence, and experiences.

Conclusion

mNGS expanded the capacity of pathogen detection and made a positive impact on clinical management of suspected infections through (a) differential diagnosis which may rule out infectious diseases and (b) adjustment or de‐escalation of empirical antibiotics.
Comprehensive assessment of amino acid substitutions in the trimeric RNA polymerase complex of influenza A virus detected in clinical trials of baloxavir marboxil
Authors: Hashimoto Takashi , Baba Keiko , Inoue Kae , Okane Miyako , Hata Satoshi , Shishido Takao , Naito Akira , Wildum Steffen , Omoto Shinya
Published: October 2020

Background

Baloxavir marboxil (BXM) is an approved drug that selectively targets cap‐dependent endonuclease on PA subunit in the RNA polymerase complex of influenza A and B viruses. Amino acid substitutions at position 38 in the PA subunit were identified as a major pathway for reduced susceptibility to baloxavir acid (BXA), the active form of BXM. Additionally, substitutions found at positions E23, A37, and E199 in the PA subunit impact BXA susceptibility by less than 10‐fold.

Methods

We comprehensively evaluated the impact of novel amino acid substitutions identified in PA, PB1, and PB2 subunits in BXM clinical trials and influenza sequence databases by means of drug susceptibility and replicative capacity.

Results

PA/I38N in A(H1N1)pdm09 and PA/I38R in A(H3N2) were newly identified as treatment‐emergent substitutions in the CAPSTONE‐2 study. The I38N substitution conferred reduced susceptibility by 24‐fold, whereas replicative capacity of the I38N‐substituted virus was impaired compared with the wild‐type. The I38R‐substituted virus was not viable in cell culture. All other mutations assessed in this extensive study did not significantly affect BXA susceptibility (< 2.4‐fold change).

Conclusion

These results provide additional information on the impact of amino acid substitutions in the trimeric viral polymerase complex to BXA susceptibility and will further support influenza surveillance.
Electrodeposited TiB2 on graphite as wettable cathode for Al production
Authors: Yvenou Etienne , Davis Boyd , Guay Daniel , Roué Lionel
Published: October 2020

Titanium diboride (TiB2) is considered as a promising cathode material for Al production. However, the manufacture of TiB2 cathodes is facing numerous challenges. In this study, electrodeposition of TiB2 on graphite was performed in molten fluoride (FLiNaK) electrolyte at 600°C by using a periodically interrupted current technique for various electrodeposition times (from 10 to 75 minutes) and at two different current densities (−0.12 and −0.5 A/cm2). It is shown that the TiB2 coating morphology/microstructure strongly depends on the applied current density. Denser coatings were obtained at jon = −0.12 A/cm2 with a growth rate of ca. 0.7 µm/min. The thicker films display a preferential crystallographic orientation along the [110] plan. At jon = −0.5 A/cm2, TiB2 coatings are deposited at a growth rate of ca. 6 µm/min with no crystallographic texture. They present a porous and stratified morphology with numerous transversal macrocracks. All TiB2 coatings show excellent wettability for molten Al as confirmed by sessile drop experiments. However, significant molten Al infiltration occurs in the TiB2 coatings, which accumulates at the coating/graphite interface, inducing the coating delamination.
Islamic labeled firms: Revisiting Dow Jones measure of compliance
Authors: Elnahas Ahmed , Ismail Ghada , El‐Khatib Rwan , Hassan M. Kabir
Published: October 2020

Billions of dollars, across 131 countries, are invested in Islamic law‐compliant funds that are often promoted as consistent with the spirit and overall objectives of Islam (Maqasid Al‐Sharia), thereby indicating they are more socially responsible, less risky, and less prone to failure. The empirical results of this study indicate that Shariah‐compliant firms identified by the Dow Jones do not have higher corporate social responsibility (CSR) scores, lower risk, or lower likelihood of failure than non‐compliant firms. We address endogeneity using the instrumental variable (IV) approach and selection bias using propensity score matching (PSM). Our results are similar when using the Dow Jones Islamic Market World, the Financial Times Stock Exchange Islamic Index, and the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation indices and when using CSR scores provided by multiple databases. We create an index to measure compliance with Islamic law that overcomes several flaws in the binary measures currently employed in the industry. This index can help Shariah‐compliant funds to fulfill their promise by constructing portfolios that are both compliant with Islamic rulings and consistent with the spirit and objectives of Islam in being more socially responsible, less risky, and less prone to failure.
Circular RNA circCCDC9 alleviates ischaemic stroke ischaemia/reperfusion injury via the Notch pathway
Authors: Wu Liquan , Xu Haitao , Zhang Wenfei , Chen Zhibiao , Li Wenlan , Ke Wei
Published: October 2020

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability, while its pathophysiological mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we used the tMCAO mice model to investigate the role of circCCDC9 in the pathogenesis of stroke. We found that the expression of circCCDC9 was significantly decreased in the brains of tMCAO mice. The Evens blue and brain water content were significantly higher in the Pre‐IR and Pre‐IR+Vector mice, while these patterns were partially reversed by overexpression of circCCDC9. The nitrite content and eNOS expression were decreased in the Pre‐IR and Pre‐IR+Vector groups, which was restored by circCCDC9 overexpression. Overexpression of circCCDC9 also inhibited the expression of Caspase‐3, Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio and the expression of Notch1, NICD and Hes1 in tMCAO mice. Knockdown of circCCDC9 increased the expression of Caspase‐3, Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio and the expression of Notch1, NICD and Hes1. In summary, overexpression of circCCDC9 protected the blood‐brain barrier and inhibited apoptosis by suppressing the Notch1 signalling pathway, while knockdown of circCCDC9 had the opposite effects. Our findings showed that circCCDC9 is a potential novel therapeutic target for cerebrovascular protection in acute ischaemic stroke.
Enabling positive practice improvement through data‐driven feedback: A model for understanding how data and self‐perception lead to practice change
Authors: Kamhawy Rana , Chan Teresa M. , Mondoux Shawn
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This article aims to identify the factors that affect physicians' experiences of receiving practice data and to use these data to develop a model describing how individuals interact with the data.

Methods

We designed an interview guide to study physicians' perspectives on audit and feedback. By intentional sampling, we recruited 15 physicians amongst gender groups, types of practice (academic vs community), and durations of practice. The interviews were conducted by a single author and transcribed without identifiers. We then began with an open coding analysis for all of the transcripts, and thereafter conducted axial coding to group the data into larger themes.

Results

Several attributes were identified as either enabling or counterproductive attributes for participant improvement. The final proposed model identifies different zones of engagement on the basis of both the individual practitioner's growth mindset and the quality of the existing data system. In the highest engagement zone, the mindset of the collective leadership is one of growth. Systemic supports are in place, which potentiates learning that may come from an individual motivated to use their own data.

Conclusion

Our novel model depicts the relationship between data feedback systems and individuals' mindsets interact to augment or hinder clinical practice improvement. This model may provide leaders with a framework to examine their academic and administrative structures and how they might interface with performance feedback systems with clinicians.
THE COMOVEMENTS OF STOCK, BOND, AND CDS ILLIQUIDITY BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE GLOBAL FINANCIAL CRISIS
Authors: Wang Xinjie , Wu Yangru , Zhong Zhaodong (Ken)
Published: October 2020

Using both marketwide and firm‐level illiquidity measures of the stock, bond, and credit default swap markets, we find that comovements of illiquidity across markets increase significantly during the recent global financial crisis. Moreover, the degree of comovement remains significantly higher in the postcrisis period and regulatory period than in the precrisis period. Specifically, the distribution of firm‐level comovements is notably different before and after the crisis (e.g., a much larger portion of firms with positive pairwise correlations between illiquidity measures in the postcrisis period than in the precrisis period). Our results provide suggestive evidence of the financial crisis effects and the subsequent postcrisis regulations on the comovements of illiquidity across markets.
Quantification of the bone lacunocanalicular network from 3D X‐ray phase nanotomography images
Authors: YU BOLIANG , PACUREANU ALEXANDRA , OLIVIER CECILE , CLOETENS PETER , PEYRIN FRANCOISE
Published: October 2020

There is a growing interest in developing 3D microscopy for the exploration of thick biological tissues. Recently, 3D X‐ray nanocomputerised tomography has proven to be a suitable technique for imaging the bone lacunocanalicular network. This interconnected structure is hosting the osteocytes which play a major role in maintaining bone quality through remodelling processes. 3D images have the potential to reveal the architecture of cellular networks, but their quantitative analysis remains a challenge due to the density and complexity of nanometre sized structures and the need to handle and process large datasets, for example, 20483 voxels corresponding to 32 GB per individual image in our case. In this work, we propose an efficient image processing approach for the segmentation of the network and the extraction of characteristic parameters describing the 3D structure. These parameters include the density of lacunae, the porosity of lacunae and canaliculi, and morphological features of lacunae (volume, surface area, lengths, anisotropy etc.). We also introduce additional parameters describing the local environment of each lacuna and its canaliculi. The method is applied to analyse eight human femoral cortical bone samples imaged by magnified X‐ray phase nanotomography with a voxel size of 120 nm, which was found to be a good compromise to resolve canaliculi while keeping a sufficiently large field of view of 246 μm in 3D. The analysis was performed on a total of 2077 lacunae showing an average length, width and depth of 17.1 μm × 9.2 μm × 4.4 μm, with an average number of 58.2 canaliculi per lacuna and a total lacuno‐canalicular porosity of 1.12%. The reported descriptive parameters provide information on the 3D organisation of the lacuno‐canalicular network in human bones.
The follicle‐sinus complex of the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Functional anatomy and possible evolutional significance of its somato‐sensory innervation
Authors: Gerussi Tommaso , Graïc Jean‐Marie , De Vreese Steffen , Grandis Annamaria , Tagliavia Claudio , De Silva Margherita , Huggenberger Stefan , Cozzi Bruno
Published: October 2020

Vibrissae are tactile hairs found mainly on the rostrum of most mammals. The follicle, which is surrounded by a large venous sinus, is called "follicle‐sinus complex" (FSC). This complex is highly innervated by somatosensitive fibers and reached by visceromotor fibers that innervate the surrounding vessels. The surrounding striated muscles receive somatomotor fibers from the facial nerve. The bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), a frequently described member of the delphinid family, possesses this organ only in the postnatal period. However, information on the function of the vibrissal complex in this latter species is scarce. Recently, psychophysical experiments on the river‐living Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) revealed that the FSC could work as an electroreceptor in murky waters. In the present study, we analyzed the morphology and innervation of the FSC of newborn (n = 8) and adult (n = 3) bottlenose dolphins. We used Masson's trichrome stain and antibodies against neurofilament 200 kDa (NF 200), protein gene product (PGP 9.5), substance P (SP), calcitonin gene‐related peptide, and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) to characterize the FSC of the two age classes. Masson's trichrome staining revealed a structure almost identical to that of terrestrial mammals except for the fact that the FSC was occupied only by a venous sinus and that the vibrissal shaft lied within the follicle. Immunostaining for PGP 9.5 and NF 200 showed somatosensory fibers finishing high along the follicle with Merkel nerve endings and free nerve endings. We also found SP‐positive fibers mostly in the surrounding blood vessels and TH both in the vessels and in the mesenchymal sheath. The FSC of the bottlenose dolphin, therefore, possesses a rich somatomotor innervation and a set of peptidergic visceromotor fibers. This anatomical disposition suggests a mechanoreceptor function in the newborns, possibly finalized to search for the opening of the mother's nipples. In the adult, however, this structure could change into a proprioceptive function in which the vibrissal shaft could provide information on the degree of rotation of the head. In the absence of psychophysical experiments in this species, the hypothesis of electroreception cannot be rejected.
Cross talk between oxidative stress and inflammation in alopecia areata
Authors: Mustafa Amany Ibrahim , Khashaba Rana Atef , Fawzy Eman , Baghdady Shimaa Mohamad AbdElRahman , Rezk Shymaa Mostafa
Published: October 2020

Background

Although the etiopathogenesis of alopecia areata (AA) is still unclear, inflammation, oxidative stress, and subsequent DNA damage might be considered role players in disease development.

Aim

We aimed at exploring the potential link between oxidative DNA damage and inflammation in AA patients through measuring 8‐hydroxy deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG), high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1), and one of the inflammatory mediators, C‐reactive protein (CRP).

Methods

A total of 79 subjects (49 AA patients in addition to 30 apparently healthy control subjects) were tested for serum levels of 8‐OHdG, HMBG1, and CRP.

Results

Compared with the control group, serum 8‐OHdG, HMBG1, and CRP levels were significantly elevated in the studied patients group (0.031, <0.001, and <0.001, respectively). Moreover, logistic regression analysis revealed that disease course, serum levels of 8‐OHdG, and HMBG1 were considered independent predictors for AA severity in both uni‐ and multivariable analyses.

Conclusion

Our results suggest a possible role of oxidative stress together with proinflammatory biomarkers in development of AA and their benefit in predicting a severe form of the disease.
Diagnosis and management of severe combined immunodeficiency in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Richards Stephanie , Gennery Andrew R , Davies E Graham , Wong Melanie , Shaw Peter J , Peake Jane , Fraser Chris , Gray Paul , Brothers Shannon , Sinclair Jan , Prestidge Tim , Preece Kahn , Quinn Patrick , Ramachandran Shanti , Loh Richard , McLean‐Tooke Andrew , Mitchell Richard , Cole Theresa ,   Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) Transplantation and Immunodeficiency (TAPID) group
Published: October 2020

This consensus document outlines the recommendations from the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy Transplantation and Primary Immunodeficiency group for the diagnosis and management of patients with severe combined immunodeficiency. It also provides a proposed framework for the early investigation, management and supportive care prior to haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
1‐Methylcyclopropene suppressed the growth of Penicillium digitatum and inhibited the green mould in citrus fruit
Authors: Wang Zhiqiang , Yuan Guofeng , Pu Huili , Shan Shuangshuang , Zhang Zhengke , Song Hongmiao , Xu Xiangbin
Published: October 2020

Postharvest green mould caused by Penicillium digitatum is one of the most important diseases in citrus fruit, which leads to fruit decay, green mould accumulation and huge economic losses. The inhibitory effect of 1‐methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) on the postharvest green mould of citrus fruit was investigated. In vivo experiments showed that 1‐MCP significantly suppressed the green mould and the decay incidence in postharvest citrus fruit, and inhibited the mycelial growth and spore germination of P. digitatum. In vitro experiments, the lower integrity of plasma membrane, the higher content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in spores and the higher content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in mycelium were detected in the 1‐MCP‐treated P. digitatum, showed that 1‐MCP increased oxidative damage and harmed the membrane integrity of P. digitatum. This study demonstrated that 1‐MCP inhibited postharvest green mould of citrus fruit by damaging the membrane integrity and influencing the growth of P. digitatum.
Mycorrhizal fungi control phosphorus value in trade symbiosis with host roots when exposed to abrupt ‘crashes’ and ‘booms’ of resource availability
Authors: van't Padje Anouk , Werner Gijsbert D. A. , Kiers E. Toby
Published: October 2020

Biological market theory provides a conceptual framework to analyse trade strategies in symbiotic partnerships. A key prediction of biological market theory is that individuals can influence resource value – meaning the amount a partner is willing to pay for it – by mediating where and when it is traded. The arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis, characterised by roots and fungi trading phosphorus and carbon, shows many features of a biological market. However, it is unknown if or how fungi can control phosphorus value when exposed to abrupt changes in their trade environment.

We mimicked an economic ‘crash’, manually severing part of the fungal network (Rhizophagus irregularis) to restrict resource access, and an economic ‘boom’ through phosphorus additions. We quantified trading strategies over a 3‐wk period using a recently developed technique that allowed us to tag rock phosphate with fluorescing quantum dots of three different colours.

We found that the fungus: compensated for resource loss in the ‘crash’ treatment by transferring phosphorus from alternative pools closer to the host root (Daucus carota); and stored the surplus nutrients in the ‘boom’ treatment until root demand increased.

By mediating from where, when and how much phosphorus was transferred to the host, the fungus successfully controlled resource value.
Comparison of Kinematic Alignment and Mechanical Alignment in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Meta‐analysis of Randomized Controlled Clinical Trials
Authors: Gao Zhi‐xiang , Long Neng‐ji , Zhang Shao‐yun , Yu Wei , Dai Yi‐xin , Xiao Cong
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to estimate whether kinematic alignment (KA) improves knee function or clinical outcomes compared with mechanical alignment (MA) in the short term after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We searched the literature for randomized controlled trials published before January 2020 from PubMed, EMBASE, Google, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and other databases. The observation markers included “The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) Osteoarthritis Index,” “Knee Society Score (KSS),” “Oxford Knee Score (OKS),” “combined Knee Society Score (KSS),” “Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS),” “European Quality of Life Measure‐5 Domain‐5‐Level (EQ‐5D‐5L),” range of motion (ROM), lower limb alignment, ligament release, and complications. A total of 11 randomized controlled trial studies were included in the study. During the follow‐up of 6–24 months, the KA‐TKA group was superior to the MA‐TKA group in terms of WOMAC scores, combined KSS, KSS, knee function scores, and knee range of flexion, but there was no significant difference in EQ‐5D‐5L, KOOS, KOOS (symptoms, pain, ADL, sports, and quality of life), complications, knee range of extension, hip‐knee‐ankle (HKA) angle, tibial component slope angle, lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA) or medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) angle between the MA‐TKA group and the MA‐TKA group (P > 0.05). Our meta‐analysis revealed that the incidence of ligament release in the MA‐TKA group was higher than that in the KA‐TKA group. This meta‐analysis shows that the KA‐TKA group had better clinical outcomes and knee range of flexion than the MA‐TKA group at short‐term follow‐up.
Nighttime transpiration represents a negligible part of water loss and does not increase the risk of water stress in grapevine
Authors: Dayer Silvina , Herrera José Carlos , Dai Zhanwu , Burlett Régis , Lamarque Laurent J. , Delzon Sylvain , Bortolami Giovanni , Cochard Hervé , Gambetta Gregory A.
Published: October 2020

Nighttime transpiration has been previously reported as a significant source of water loss in many species; however, there is a need to determine if this trait plays a key role in the response to drought. This study aimed to determine the magnitude, regulation and relative contribution to whole plant water‐use, of nighttime stomatal conductance (gnight) and transpiration (Enight) in grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.). Our results showed that nighttime water loss was relatively low compared to daytime transpiration, and that decreases in soil and plant water potentials were mainly explained by daytime stomatal conductance (gday) and transpiration (Eday). Contrary to Eday, Enight did not respond to VPD and possible effects of an innate circadian regulation were observed. Plants with higher gnight also exhibited higher daytime transpiration and carbon assimilation at midday, and total leaf area, suggesting that increased gnight may be linked with daytime behaviors that promote productivity. Modeling simulations indicated that gnight was not a significant factor in reaching critical hydraulic thresholds under scenarios of either extreme drought, or time to 20% of soil relative water content. Overall, this study suggests that gnight is not significant in exacerbating the risk of water stress and hydraulic failure in grapevine.
Treatment of alopecia areata in pre‐adolescent children with oral tofacitinib: A retrospective study
Authors: Jerjen Rebekka , Meah Nekma , Trindade de Carvalho Lara , Wall Dmitri , Eisman Samantha , Sinclair Rodney
Published: October 2020

Background

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune hair loss condition that affects people of all ages. Early age of onset and prolonged disease duration indicate poor prognosis. Janus kinase inhibitors are being investigated in phase 3 clinical trials in adolescents and adults with AA

Objective

To evaluate the use of oral tofacitinib in pre‐adolescent patients with AA.

Methods

A retrospective review of case records of all pre‐adolescent patients with AA treated with oral tofacitinib in a single center between 2018 and 2019.

Results

Fourteen patients were identified, aged 7 to 11 years. Nine patients experienced clinically significant improvement in their SALT (Severity of Alopecia Tool) score. Three patients achieved complete remission (SALT score of 0), seven (63.6%) achieved over 50% improvement in SALT score from baseline. One patient had no change from baseline, another experienced additional hair loss. After an average of 9 months of treatment, the median SALT score improvement was 67.7%. The improvement was similar in patients with baseline SALT scores greater than 50 and those with baseline SALT scores below 10. Adverse events were mild.

Limitations

The retrospective nature of the data, small sample size, lack of a control group, referral bias to a specialist hair center, and concomitant use of other medications including oral minoxidil in all patients.

Conclusion

There is a role for tofacitinib as a systemic therapy in AA and this should be further evaluated in prospective clinical trials in pre‐adolescents.
Mitogenomic phylogeny of Trochoidea (Gastropoda: Vetigastropoda): New insights from increased complete genomes
Authors: Guo Erfei , Yang Yi , Kong Lingfeng , Yu Hong , Liu Shikai , Liu Zhanjiang , Li Qi
Published: October 2020

Increased mitochondrial (mt) genomes can provide more sets of genome‐level characteristics for resolving deeper phylogeny. Limited information with respect to the Trochoidea mitochondrial genome organization is available; besides, monophyly and internal relationships of the superfamily still remain a matter of discussion. To resolve the monophyly and internal phylogenetic controversies of Trochoidea and expand our understanding for mt genomic characteristic evolution among Trochoidea, the phylogenetic trees were reconstructed using 13 newly sequenced complete mt genomes and 35 genomes from GenBank, and both the maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses were highly supported. Vetigastropoda phylogenetic analyses recovered the monophyly of Trochoidea. Trochoidea phylogenetic analyses and genetic distances supported the non‐monophyly of Tegulidae andTegula, indicating that the taxonomic status of several genera (Rochia,TectusandCittarium) should be revised andTegula,OmphaliusandChlorostomashould be placed as a same genus. The close affinity betweenTectus virgatusandRochiawas also revealed. Three‐nucleotide insertion innad1, nine‐nucleotide insertion and six‐nucleotide deletion innad5are detected in Tegulidae,TectusandRochia, respectively. Gene orders within Trochoidea are stable, with gene rearrangements exclusive to tRNA genes observed. Homoplasious convergences because of trnT rearrangement display translocation in Turbinidae and reversion in Trochidae and Calliostomatida. FortrnEandtrnG, we identify 11 arrangement types, suggesting that the gene rearrangement history needs to be further evaluated. Our study emphasizes the importance of mt genomes in resolving phylogenetic relationships within Trochoidea. In addition, the mt genomic characters would contribute new insights into the classification of Trochoidea.
Speciation in sympatric species of land snails from the genus Trochulus (Gastropoda, Hygromiidae)
Authors: Proćków Małgorzata , Kuźnik‐Kowalska Elżbieta , Pieńkowska Joanna R. , Żeromska Aleksandra , Mackiewicz Paweł
Published: October 2020

The identification and designation of land snail species in the genus Trochulus on the basis of shell characteristics are problematic because of their great phenotypic plasticity. Some genetic analyses have proved inconclusive, with much variation within populations and apparent gene flow among them. We examined this issue by morphometric and molecular approaches on the morphologically similar species T. coelomphala, T. hispidus and T. striolatus, co‐occurring in the Alpenvorland of Germany. While these species differed in shell and reproductive system morphology, there were forms that turned out intermediate in shell characters between T. coelomphala and T. hispidus but had genital morphology similar to T. coelomphala. Phylogenetic analysis, however, showed that these forms clustered neither with T. coelomphala nor T. hispidus but are sister to T. striolatus from the same region, which suggests that they evolved by way of sympatric speciation. Further, these analyses suggest that T. coelomphala diverged within T. hispidus; a crossing experiment indicated that they were interfertile. Expanding the study to include all available Trochulus sequences enabled us to infer evolutionary relationships between them and showed that T. hispidus is polyphyletic. Some Trochulus samples of one nominal species were grouped within others. The combination of phenotypic plasticity and possible mitochondrial DNA introgression illustrates the complex nature of evolutionary processes and the need for caution in the application of traditional taxonomic practice.
Reduced activity of GIRK1‐containing heterotetramers is sufficient to affect neuronal functions, including synaptic plasticity and spatial learning and memory
Authors: Mett Alice , Karbat Izhar , Tsoory Michael , Fine Shachar , Iwanir Shachar , Reuveny Eitan
Published: October 2020

Key points

G‐protein inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels consist of four homologous subunits (GIRK1‐4) and are essential regulators of electrical excitability in the nervous system.

GIRK2‐null mice have been widely investigated for their distinct behaviour and altered depotentiation following long‐term potentiation (LTP), whereas GIRK1 mice are less well characterized.

Here we utilize a novel knockin mouse strain in which the GIRK1 subunit is fluorescently tagged with yellow fluorescent protein (YFP‐GIRK1) and the GIRK1‐null mouse line to investigate the role of GIRK1 in neuronal processes such as spatial learning and memory, locomotion and depotentiation following LTP.

Neurons dissected from YFP‐GIRK1 mice had significantly reduced potassium currents and this mouse line phenotypically resembled GIRK1‐null mice, making it a ‘functional knockdown’ model of GIRK1‐containing channels.

YFP‐GIRK1 and GIRK1‐null mice had increased locomotion, reduced spatial learning and memory and blunted depotentiation following LTP.

GIRK channels are essential for the slow inhibition of electrical activity in the nervous system and heart rate regulation via the parasympathetic system. The implications of individual GIRK isoforms in specific physiological activities are based primarily on studies conducted with GIRK‐null mouse lines. Here we utilize a novel knockin mouse line in which YFP was fused in‐frame to the N‐terminus of GIRK1 (YFP‐GIRK1) to correlate GIRK1 spatial distribution with physiological activities. These mice, however, displayed spontaneous seizure‐like activity and thus were investigated for the origin of such activity. We show that GIRK tetramers containing YFP‐GIRK1 are correctly assembled and trafficked to the plasma membrane, but are functionally impaired. A battery of behavioural assays conducted on YFP‐GIRK1 and GIRK1‐null (GIRK1−/−) mice revealed similar phenotypes, including impaired nociception, reduced anxiety and hyperactivity in an unfamiliar environment. However, YFP‐GIRK1 mice exhibited increased home‐cage locomotion while GIRK1−/− mice did not. In addition, we show that the GIRK1 subunit is essential for intact spatial learning and memory and synaptic plasticity in hippocampal brain slices. This study expands our knowledge regarding the role of GIRK1 in neuronal processes and underlines the importance of GIRK1‐containing heterotetramers.
Regulation of plasma volume in male lowlanders during 4 days of exposure to hypobaric hypoxia equivalent to 3500 m altitude
Authors: Schlittler Maja , Gatterer Hannes , Turner Rachel , Regli Ivo B. , Woyke Simon , Strapazzon Giacomo , Rasmussen Peter , Kob Michael , Mueller Thomas , Goetze Jens P. , Maillard Marc , van Hall Gerrit , Feraille Eric , Siebenmann Christoph
Published: October 2020

Key points

Acclimatization to hypoxia leads to a reduction in plasma volume (PV) that restores arterial O2 content.

Findings from studies investigating the mechanisms underlying this PV contraction have been controversial, possibly as experimental conditions were inadequately controlled.

We examined the mechanisms underlying the PV contraction evoked by 4 days of exposure to hypobaric hypoxia (HH) in 11 healthy lowlanders, while strictly controlling water intake, diet, temperature and physical activity.

Exposure to HH‐induced an ∼10% PV contraction that was accompanied by a reduction in total circulating protein mass, whereas diuretic fluid loss and total body water remained unchanged.

Our data support an oncotically driven fluid redistribution from the intra‐ to the extravascular space, rather than fluid loss, as the mechanism underlying HH‐induced PV contraction.

Extended hypoxic exposure reduces plasma volume (PV). The mechanisms underlying this effect are controversial, possibly as previous studies have been confounded by inconsistent experimental conditions. Here, we investigated the effect of hypobaric hypoxia (HH) on PV in a cross‐over study that strictly controlled for diet, water intake, physical activity and temperature. Eleven males completed two 4‐day sojourns in a hypobaric chamber, one in normoxia (NX) and one in HH equivalent to 3500 m altitude. PV, urine output, volume‐regulating hormones and plasma protein concentration were determined daily. Total body water (TBW) was determined at the end of both sojourns by deuterium dilution. Although PV was 8.1 ± 5.8% lower in HH than in NX after 24 h and remained ∼10% lower thereafter (all P < 0.002), no differences were detected in TBW (P = 0.17) or in 24 h urine volumes (all P > 0.23). Plasma renin activity and circulating aldosterone were suppressed in HH during the first half of the sojourn (all P < 0.05) but thereafter similar to NX, whereas no differences were detected for copeptin between sojourns (all P > 0.05). Markers for atrial natriuretic peptide were higher in HH than NX after 30 min (P = 0.001) but lower during the last 2 days (P < 0.001). While plasma protein concentration was similar between sojourns, total circulating protein mass (TCP) was reduced in HH at the same time points as PV (all P < 0.03). Despite transient hormonal changes favouring increased diuresis, HH did not enhance urine output. Instead, the maintained TBW and reduced TCP support an oncotically driven fluid redistribution into the extravascular compartment as the mechanism underlying PV contraction.
Backscattering Observations from an Airplane
Authors: Ackerson Bruce J.
Published: October 2020

Sometimes it takes little to keep this physicist happy on an airplane. A window seat, where the plane’s shadow is visible or has disappeared into the distance, provides the opportunity to observe a variety of phenomena associated with sunlight that is reflected, refracted or scattered back towards the Sun. The term “backscattering” is often used to describe these phenomena. The Sun, me, and my position in the plane’s shadow (called the antisolar point) are all in a line. The backscattering phenomena are at or centered on the antisolar point for the observer. If you can see clouds and their shadows on the ground, figure out where you must look to see a cloud cover its own shadow. That is where you must fix your attention to see these phenomena.
JS9: An interactive tool for teaching astrophysics
Authors: Matilsky Terry
Published: October 2020

The NASA public archives present a vast resource of authentic satellite data that research astronomers have tapped into for decades. Recently, the same data analysis tools used by professional astronomers have been adapted into a browser-based interface called JS9 for easy use by any interested student. Tutorials and classroom-ready activities that explore many deep sky objects in depth have also been generated. JS9 affords a unique, platform-independent introduction to the world of astronomical observation with no cost to anyone. It presents a virtual-classroom-ready approach that can be utilized anywhere, at any time, at home or anywhere that internet connectivity is available. Its predecessor, DS9, is still used extensively and is available as a desktop application.
Pendulum physics poetry: Thus, dances the horizon!
Authors: Sriskandarajah Rathidevi
Published: October 2020

I write short stories and poems in my mother tongue Tamil and I admire the works of Carlo Rovelli and Fritjof Capra, so I decided to write a poem about physics involving the concepts of simple harmonic motion, simple pendulum forces (shown in Fig. 1) and energy.