bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate change impact on cultivated and wild cacao in Peru and the search of climate change‐tolerant genotypes
Authors: Ceccarelli Viviana , Fremout Tobias , Zavaleta Diego , Lastra Sphyros , Imán Correa Sixto , Arévalo‐Gardini Enrique , Rodriguez Carlos Armando , Cruz Hilacondo Wilbert , Thomas Evert
Published: May 2021

Aim

Cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) is expected to be vulnerable to climate change. The objectives of this study were to (a) assess the future impact of climate change on cacao in Peru and (b) identify areas where climate change‐tolerant genotypes are potentially present.

Location

Peru

Methods

Drawing on 19,700 and 1,200 presence points of cultivated and wild cacao, respectively, we modelled their suitability distributions using multiple ensemble models constructed based on both random and target group selection of pseudo‐absence points and different resolutions of spatial filtering. To estimate the uncertainty of future predictions, we generated future projections for all the ensemble models. We investigated the potential emergence of novel climates, determined expected changes in ecogeographical zones (zones representative for particular sets of growth conditions) and carried out an outlier analysis based on the environmental variables most relevant for climate change adaptation to identify areas where climate change‐tolerant genotypes are potentially present.

Results

We found that the best modelling approaches differed between cultivated and wild cacao and that the resolution of spatial filtering had a strong impact on future suitability predictions, calling for careful evaluation of the effect of model selection on modelling results. Overall, our models foresee a contraction of suitable area for cultivated cacao while predicting a more positive future for wild cacao in Peru. Ecogeographical zones are expected to change in 8%–16% of the distribution of cultivated and wild cacao. We identified several areas where climate change‐tolerant genotypes may be present in Peru.

Main conclusions

Our results indicate that tolerant genotypes will be required to facilitate the adaptation of cacao cultivation under climate change. The identified cacao populations will be target of collection missions.
Mollusc aquaculture homogenizes intertidal soft‐sediment communities along the 18,400 km long coastline of China
Authors: Peng He‐Bo , Chan Ying‐Chi , Compton Tanya J. , Cheng Xue‐Fei , Melville David S. , Zhang Shou‐Dong , Zhang Zhengwang , Lei Guangchun , Ma Zhijun , Piersma Theunis
Published: May 2021

Aim

Molluscs are important grazers, filter and deposit feeders, scavengers and predators, which in turn are food for shorebirds, fish and people. Some species, targeted as human food, have been cultured along the Chinese coast for hundreds of years. To examine whether aquacultural practices have meanwhile affected biodiversity gradients, we measured mollusc community structure along the coast of China in habitats which are intensively used by humans.

Location

Chinese coast.

Methods

We sampled 21 intertidal sites spanning 20 latitudinal degrees and 18,400 km of coastline. We assessed alpha diversity to verify whether mollusc communities exhibit the expected biodiversity gradient with latitude and beta diversity gradients with distance. To examine whether human activities such as transportation and culturing could have affected these patterns, we distinguished commercial from non‐commercial mollusc species and compared the differences in distribution, density, alpha diversity and beta diversity.

Results

We found non‐commercial species showed the expected biodiversity gradients. Commercial species (a) dominated the intertidal mollusc communities at 19 of the 21 sites and compared with non‐commercial species, (b) exhibited wider geographical distributions, (c) showed no significant change in Bray‐Curtis index (abundance‐based beta diversity) with either geographical or climatic distance, (d) exhibited lower average dissimilarities and (e) did not show a decrease in species richness and Shannon diversity with latitude. Combining all species, trends were the same as for the commercial species.

Main conclusions

A few cultured species dominated the intertidal mollusc communities in high densities along the Chinese coastline, taking over the ecological roles of the native species but not driving them extinct. In this way, aquacultural practices have exerted a homogenizing influence strong enough to erase basic biodiversity gradients. Since molluscs are food for the growing human population and the shrinking populations of migratory animals, coastal planning and management of both intertidal habitats and the exploitative activities employed need to incorporate these dimensions.
Endoscopic hand suturing for mucosal defect closure after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection may reduce the risk of postoperative bleeding in patients receiving antithrombotic therapy
Authors: Akimoto Teppei , Goto Osamu , Sasaki Motoki , Mizutani Mari , Tsutsumi Koshiro , Kiguchi Yoshiyuki , Takatori Yusaku , Nakayama Atsushi , Kato Motohiko , Fujimoto Ai , Ochiai Yasutoshi , Maehata Tadateru , Kaise Mitsuru , Iwakiri Katsuhiko , Yahagi Naohisa
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Endoscopic hand suturing (EHS) is expected to decrease the risk of post‐endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) bleeding by closing mucosal defects. We investigated the efficacy of EHS after gastric ESD in patients with antithrombotic agents.

Methods

In this prospective single‐arm trial, patients taking antithrombotic agents for cardiovascular disease, arrhythmia, cerebrovascular disease and/or peripheral arterial disease and having <3‐cm gastric neoplasms were recruited. The mucosal defects after ESD were closed by EHS in which the needle was delivered through an overtube, and the mucosal rim of the defect was continuously sutured in a linear fashion by manipulating the needle grasped with the needle holder, followed by cutting the remnant suture and retrieval of the needle. The primary endpoint was the incidence of postoperative bleeding within 4 weeks after ESD.

Results

Twenty‐two lesions in 20 patients (continuing antiplatelet agents in 11, anticoagulant agents in eight, both in one) underwent ESD followed by EHS. All defects (median size, 30 mm; range, 12–51 mm) were completely closed by EHS and remained closed on postoperative day 3. The median number of stitches was six (range, 4–8) and median suturing time was 36 (range, 24–60) min. There were no adverse events during/after EHS or postoperative bleeding.

Conclusions

Postoperative bleeding was not observed in patients taking antithrombotic agents without perioperative cessation. EHS appears to be useful for prevention of post‐gastric ESD bleeding in high‐risk patients. (Clinical registration number: UMIN000024184).
Impact of comprehensive optical diagnosis training using Workgroup serrAted polypS and Polyposis classification on detection of adenoma and sessile serrated lesion
Authors: Lee Jooyoung , Bae Jung Ho , Chung Su Jin , Kang Hae Yeon , Kang Seung Joo , Kwak Min‐Sun , Seo Ji Yeon , Song Ji Hyun , Yang Sun Young , Yang Jong In , Lim Seon Hee , Yim Jeong Yoon , Lim Joo Hyun , Chung Goh Eun , Jin Eun Hyo , Choi Ji Min , Han Yoo Min , Kim Joo Sung
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Many interventions have been attempted to improve adenoma detection rate (ADR) and sessile serrated lesion detection rate (SDR), and one of these interventions is educational training to recognize polyp characteristics. This study aimed to investigate the change in polyp detection rates of endoscopists before and after comprehensive training through the Gangnam‐Real Time Optical Diagnosis (Gangnam‐READI) program.

Methods

Fifteen gastroenterologists participated in a 1‐year comprehensive training program that consisted of ex vivo and in vivo training that encompasses knowledge and skills in endoscopic characterization of colonic polyps using the Workgroup serrAted polypS and Polyposis (WASP) classification. We evaluated the impact of the training program by comparing the overall and individual ADR and SDR 6 months before and after the training.

Results

Overall, 18,280 polyps (9337 adenomas and 855 sessile serrated lesion) were collected. The optical diagnosis training had no significant impact on the difference in ADR after training compared to before training (47.7% vs. 46.5%, P = 0.608). A tendency for a decrease in ADR variance was noted among the endoscopists after training (74.9 vs. 32.7, P = 0.121). The overall pre‐training period SDR was 4.5% and showed a statistically significant increase to 5.6%, 8.0%, and 7.1% in the first and second half of the training period, and post‐training period, respectively (P = 0.003). The optical diagnosis training did not decrease variance in SDR (8.9 vs. 8.8, P = 0.985).

Conclusion

Comprehensive optical diagnosis training with WASP classification has a significant impact on increasing the overall SDR of expert endoscopists.
A population of neurons that produce hugin and express the diuretic hormone 44 receptor gene projects to the corpora allata in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Mizuno Yosuke , Imura Eisuke , Kurogi Yoshitomo , Shimada‐Niwa Yuko , Kondo Shu , Tanimoto Hiromu , Hückesfeld Sebastian , Pankratz Michael J. , Niwa Ryusuke
Published: May 2021

The corpora allata (CA) are essential endocrine organs that biosynthesize and secrete the sesquiterpenoid hormone, namely juvenile hormone (JH), to regulate a wide variety of developmental and physiological events in insects. CA are directly innervated with neurons in many insect species, implying the innervations to be important for regulating JH biosynthesis. Although this is also true for the model organism Drosophila melanogaster, neurotransmitters produced in the CA‐projecting neurons are yet to be identified. In this study on D. melanogaster, we aimed to demonstrate that a subset of neurons producing the neuropeptide hugin, the invertebrate counterpart of the vertebrate neuromedin U, directly projects to the adult CA. A synaptic vesicle marker in the hugin neurons was observed at their axon termini located on the CA, which were immunolabeled with a newly‐generated antibody to the JH biosynthesis enzyme JH acid O‐methyltransferase. We also found the CA‐projecting hugin neurons to likely express a gene encoding the specific receptor for diuretic hormone 44 (Dh44). Moreover, our data suggest that the CA‐projecting hugin neurons have synaptic connections with the upstream neurons producing Dh44. Unexpectedly, the inhibition of CA‐projecting hugin neurons did not significantly alter the expression levels of the JH‐inducible gene Krüppel‐homolog 1, which implies that the CA‐projecting neurons are not involved in JH biosynthesis but rather in other known biological processes. This is the first study to identify a specific neurotransmitter of the CA‐projecting neurons in D. melanogaster, and to anatomically characterize a neuronal pathway of the CA‐projecting neurons and their upstream neurons.
The ‘marketplace of post‐conflict assistance’ in northern Uganda and beyond
Authors: Williams Lars Hedegaard , Schulz Philipp
Published: May 2021

This paper puts forward the framework of the ‘marketplace of post‐conflict assistance’ as a conceptual, analytical, and heuristic tool to comprehend better holistic dynamics in humanitarian and post‐conflict contexts, where a variety of different actors offer various services and forms of assistance. It seeks to emphasise relations and interactions between service providers and intended beneficiaries in settings where there are often numerous different ways to conceptualise and manage problems stemming from armed conflict. This is demonstrated using one in‐depth case study of a family in northern Uganda that has struggled for years with mental illness/spiritual problems. By framing the post‐conflict space using the marketplace metaphor, it is possible to deepen understanding of how people try out different options to manage issues related to warfare and seek healing. Importantly, this framework also recognises the agency that people exercise in doing so, and how communities and service providers relate to each other.
Maternal gestational diabetes and childhood hyperlipidemia
Authors: Yang Xiaoyun , Leng Junhong , Liu Huikun , Wang Leishen , Li Weiqin , Li Wei , Yang Xilin , Liu Ming , Hu Gang
Published: May 2021

Aims

Aim of this study is to assess dyslipidemia risk between children exposed to maternal gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and those not exposed.

Methods

We recruited 1144 mother–child pairs (572 GDM and 572 non‐GDM women matched by their offspring's age and sex). The age of offspring ranged from 3 to 9 years old. We used general linear models to compare mean values of different lipid profiles among children born to mothers with and without GDM. Logistic regression models were used to assess associations of maternal GDM with abnormal lipid profiles in offspring.

Results

After adjustment for maternal and children's characteristics, children born to mothers with GDM had lower mean values of high‐density‐lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (1.40 ± 0.01 vs. 1.50 ± 0.01; p < 0.001) and higher mean levels of triglycerides/HDL cholesterol ratio (0.37 ± 0.01 vs. 0.35 ± 0.01; p < 0.05) in comparison with their counterparts born to mothers without GDM. Multivariate‐adjusted odds ratios among children exposed to mothers with GDM compared with the counterparts were 2.11 (95% confidence interval [CI 1.15–3.88]) for low HDL cholesterol and 1.35 (95% CI 1.00–1.81) for high triglycerides/HDL cholesterol ratio, respectively.

Conclusions

Maternal GDM was associated with an increased risk of hyperlipidemia in the offspring during early childhood aged from 3 to 9 years old.
Exosomal circEPB41L2 serves as a sponge for miR‐21‐5p and miR‐942‐5p to suppress colorectal cancer progression by regulating the PTEN/AKT signalling pathway
Authors: Jiang Zhipeng , Hou Zehui , Li Liang , Liu Wei , Yu Zhuomin , Chen Shuang
Published: May 2021

Background

Exosomes contain many functional RNAs, including circular RNA (circRNA), which are critical for cancer progression. However, the role of exosomal circEPB41L2 in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear.

Methods

Exosomes were isolated from plasma and cells. The characteristics of the exosomes were identified using transmission electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis. The protein levels of exosome markers and PTEN/AKT‐related markers were measured using Western blot analysis. The expression of circEPB41L2, microRNA (miR)‐21‐5p and miR‐942‐5p was verified by quantitative real‐time PCR. The proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion of cells were determined using cell counting kit eight assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, wound healing assay and transwell assay. Biotin‐labelled RNA pull‐down assay, dual‐luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay were conducted to evaluate the interaction between circEPB41L2 and miR‐21‐5p or miR‐942‐5p. The effects of exosomal circEPB41L2 on colorectal cancer tumour growth were confirmed using animal experiments.

Results

CircEPB41L2 was downregulated in the exosomes from colorectal cancer patients and cells. Overexpressed circEPB41L2 inhibited colorectal cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion and promoted apoptosis, as well as suppressed the activity of PTEN/AKT signalling pathway. CircEPB41L2 could sponge miR‐21‐5p or miR‐942‐5p. MiR‐21‐5p or miR‐942‐5p could reverse the inhibition effect of circEPB41L2 on colorectal cancer progression and PTEN/AKT signalling pathway. In addition, we discovered that circEPB41L2 was mainly located at exosomes. Exosomal circEPB41L2 also could restrain colorectal cancer progression and the activity of PTEN/AKT signalling pathway. Animal experiments suggested that exosomal‐mediated circEPB41L2 inhibited colorectal cancer tumour growth.

Conclusion

Our data revealed that exosomal circEPB41L2 sponged miR‐21‐5p and miR‐942‐5p to repress colorectal cancer progression by regulating the PTEN/AKT signalling pathway.
Feasibility of non‐invasive measurement of central blood pressure and arterial stiffness in shock
Authors: Markakis Konstantinos , Pagonas Nikolaos , Georgianou Eleni , Zgoura Panagiota , Rohn Benjamin J. , Bertram Sebastian , Seidel Maximilian , Bettag Sebastian , Trappe Hans‐Joachim , Babel Nina , Westhoff Timm H. , Seibert Felix S.
Published: May 2021

Background

Patients in haemodynamic shock are in need for an intensive care treatment. Invasive haemodynamic monitoring is state of the art for these patients. However, evolved, non‐invasive blood pressure monitoring devices offer advanced functions like the assessment of central blood pressure and arterial stiffness. We analysed the feasibility of two oscillometric blood pressure devices in patients with shock.

Methods

We performed a monocentre prospective study, enrolling 57 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), due to septic and/or cardiogenic shock. We assessed invasive and non‐invasive peripheral and central blood pressure <24 hours and 48 hours after admission on the ICU. Additional haemodynamic parameters such as pulse wave velocity (PWV), augmentation pressure and augmentation index were obtained through Mobil‐o‐Graph PWA (IEM) and SphygmoCor XCEL (AtCor Medical).

Results

A complete haemodynamic assessment was successful in all patients (48) with the Mobil‐o‐Graph 24 hours PWA and in 29 patients with the SphygmoCor XCEL (P = .001), when cases of death or device malfunction were excluded. Reasons for failure were severe peripheral artery disease, haemodynamic instability, oedema and agitation. Invasive blood pressure showed a sufficient correlation with both devices; however, large differences between invasive and non‐invasive techniques were recorded in Bland‐Altmann analysis (P < .05 for all parameters). PWV differed between the two devices.

Conclusion

Non‐invasive peripheral blood pressure measurement remains a rescue technique. However, non‐invasive assessment of arterial stiffness and central blood pressure is possible in patients with septic or cardiogenic shock. Further studies are required to assess their clinical significance for patients in shock.
Influenza vaccination in cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors: A systematic review
Authors: Spagnolo Francesco , Boutros Andrea , Croce Elena , Cecchi Federica , Arecco Luca , Tanda Enrica , Pronzato Paolo , Lambertini Matteo
Published: May 2021

Background

There is a concern that influenza vaccination may increase the incidence of immune‐related adverse events in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the available data on the safety and efficacy of influenza vaccination in cancer patients receiving ICIs.

Methods

Studies reporting safety and efficacy outcomes of influenza vaccination in cancer patients receiving ICIs were included. Only descriptive statistics were conducted to obtain a pooled rate of immune‐related adverse events in vaccinated patients.

Results

Ten studies assessing the safety and eight assessing the efficacy of influenza vaccination in cancer patients receiving ICIs were identified, for a total of 1124 and 986 vaccinated patients, respectively. Most patients had melanoma or lung cancer and received a single agent anti‐PD‐1, but also other tumour types and immunotherapy combinations were represented. No severe vaccination‐related toxicities were reported. The pooled incidence of any grade immune checkpoint inhibitor–related adverse events was 28.9%. In the 6 studies specifying the incidence of grade 3‐4 toxicities, the pooled incidence was 7.5%. No grade 5 toxicities were reported. No pooled descriptive analysis was conducted in studies reporting efficacy outcomes due to the heterogeneity of endpoints and data reporting. Nevertheless, among the eight studies included, seven reported positive efficacy outcomes of influenza vaccination.

Conclusion

The results of this systematic review support the safety and efficacy of influenza vaccination in cancer patients receiving ICIs. These results are particularly relevant in the context of the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic.
Selective ABO immunoadsorption in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with major ABO incompatibility
Authors: Crysandt Martina , Soysal Hatice , Jennes Eva , Holtick Udo , Mrotzek Matthias , Rehnelt Susanne , Holderried Tobias A. W. , Wessiepe Martina , Kunter Uta , Wilop Stefan , Silling Gerda , Gecht Judith , Beier Fabian , Brümmendorf Tim H. , Jost Edgar
Published: May 2021

Objective

ABO mismatch between donor and recipient occurs in 40% of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantations (HCT). Different strategies have been described to reduce isohemagglutinins (IHA) before HCT. We describe the effect of selective ABO immunoadsorption (ABO IA) on erythrocyte transfusion rate and the development of post‐transplant pure red cell aplasia (ptPRCA).

Methods

63 patients with major ABO incompatibility were retrospectively analyzed. Nine patients with major ABO incompatibility and high‐IHA titer were treated by ABO IA before HCT. We analyzed the need for transfusion and the occurrence of ptPRCA. We compared the outcome with patients treated by other methods to reduce IHA.

Results

In all nine patients treated by ABO IA, IHA decreased in a median four times. PtPRCA occurred in one patient. The median number of transfusions was 8 (range: 0‐36) between d0 and d100. In 25 patients with high‐IHA titer without treatment or treated by other methods to reduce IHA, the need for transfusions was comparable. No difference in the incidence of ptPRCA was observed.

Conclusions

Selective ABO IA is a feasible, safe, and effective method to reduce IHA before HCT in major ABO incompatibility. No effect on transfusion rate or ptPRCA compared to other strategies could be observed.
Participation of glutamatergic and nitrergic systems in the striatal dopamine release induced by isatin, a MAO inhibitor
Authors: Faro Lilian R. F. , Justo Lorenzo , Gómez Raquel , Durán Rafael
Published: May 2021

Isatin is a biofactor with different biochemical and pharmacological properties whose effects attract much attention because it is an endogenous inhibitor of the monoamine oxidase in the brain. When exogenously administrated, isatin increases dopamine levels in intact and denervated striatum of rats, an effect that could indicate its potential as a therapeutic agent in Parkinson disease. However, the neurochemical mechanisms by which isatin increases dopamine in the striatum are poorly understood. In the present study, we evaluate the role of the glutamatergic and nitrergic systems in the isatin‐induced dopamine release from rat striatum. Our findings show that the intrastriatal administration of 10 mM isatin significantly increases the in vivo release of dopamine (1,104.7% ± 97.1%), and the amino acids glutamate (428.7% ± 127%) and taurine (221% ± 22%) from rat striatum measured by brain microdialysis. The pretreatment with MK‐801 (500 µM) or AP5 (650 µM) (glutamatergic NMDA receptors antagonists) significantly reduces the effect of isatin on dopamine release by 52% and 70.5%, respectively. The administration of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitors, L‐NAME (100 µM) or 7‐NI (100 µM) also decreases the isatin‐induced dopamine release by 77% and 42%, respectively. These results show that isatin, in addition to increasing dopamine release, also increases glutamate levels, and possibly activates NMDA receptors and nitric oxide production, which can promote a further increase in the dopamine release.
Elevated carbon dioxide reduces a common soybean leaf endophyte
Authors: Christian Natalie , Espino Basurto Baldemar , Toussaint Amber , Xu Xinyan , Ainsworth Elizabeth A. , Busby Posy E. , Heath Katy D.
Published: May 2021

Free‐air CO2 enrichment (FACE) experiments have elucidated how climate change affects plant physiology and production. However, we lack a predictive understanding of how climate change alters interactions between plants and endophytes, critical microbial mediators of plant physiology and ecology. We leveraged the SoyFACE facility to examine how elevated [CO2] affected soybean (Glycine max) leaf endophyte communities in the field. Endophyte community composition changed under elevated [CO2], including a decrease in the abundance of a common endophyte, Methylobacterium sp. Moreover, Methylobacterium abundance was negatively correlated with co‐occurring fungal endophytes. We then assessed how Methylobacterium affected the growth of co‐occurring endophytic fungi in vitro. Methylobacterium antagonized most co‐occurring fungal endophytes in vitro, particularly when it was more established in culture before fungal introduction. Variation in fungal response to Methylobacterium within a single fungal operational taxonomic unit (OTU) was comparable to inter‐OTU variation. Finally, fungi isolated from elevated vs. ambient [CO2] plots differed in colony growth and response to Methylobacterium, suggesting that increasing [CO2] may affect fungal traits and interactions within the microbiome. By combining in situ and in vitro studies, we show that elevated [CO2] decreases the abundance of a common bacterial endophyte that interacts strongly with co‐occurring fungal endophytes. We suggest that endophyte responses to global climate change will have important but largely unexplored implications for both agricultural and natural systems.
Urbanization minimizes the effects of plant traits on soil provisioned ecosystem services across climatic regions
Authors: Kotze D. Johan , Ghosh Subhadip , Hui Nan , Jumpponen Ari , Lee Benjamin P. Y.‐H. , Lu Changyi , Lum Shawn , Pouyat Richard , Szlavecz Katalin , Wardle David A. , Yesilonis Ian , Zheng Bangxiao , Setälä Heikki
Published: May 2021

An increasingly urbanized world is one of the most prominent examples of global environmental change. Across the globe, urban parks are designed and managed in a similar way, resulting in visually pleasing expansions of lawn interspersed with individually planted trees of varying appearances and functional traits. These large urban greenspaces have the capacity to provide various ecosystem services, including those associated with soil physicochemical properties. Our aim was to explore whether soil properties in urban parks diverge underneath vegetation producing labile or recalcitrant litter, and whether the impact is affected by climatic zone (from a boreal to temperate to tropical city). We also compared these properties to those in (semi)natural forests outside the cities to assess the influence of urbanization on plant‐trait effects. We showed that vegetation type affected percentage soil organic matter (OM), total carbon (C) and total nitrogen (N), but inconsistently across climatic zones. Plant‐trait effects were particularly weak in old parks in the boreal and temperate zones, whereas in young parks in these zones, soils underneath the two tree types accumulated significantly more OM, C and N compared to lawns. Within climatic zones, anthropogenic drivers dominated natural ones, with consistently lower values of organic‐matter‐related soil properties under trees producing labile or recalcitrant litter in parks compared to forests. The dominating effect of urbanization is also reflected in its ability to homogenize soil properties in parks across the three cities, especially in lawn soils and soils under trees irrespective of functional trait. Our study demonstrates that soil functions that relate to carbon and nitrogen dynamics—even in old urban greenspaces where plant–soil interactions have a long history—clearly diverged from those in natural ecosystems, implying a long‐lasting influence of anthropogenic drivers on soil ecosystem services.
Ethylene‐regulated leaf lifespan explains divergent responses of plant productivity to warming among three hydrologically different growing seasons
Authors: Ren Haiyan , Han Guodong , Li Mai‐He , Gao Cuiping , Jiang Lin
Published: May 2021

Leaf senescence is known to be regulated by the plant hormone ethylene, but how leaf lifespan responds to global environmental change and links to ecosystem‐level responses remains largely unexplored. Here we investigated the effects of climate warming and nitrogen addition on plant functional traits, plant hormone ethylene and net primary production in a 13‐year field experiment in a desert steppe. Across the last 3 years of the experiment (2016–2018), plant productivity increased under warming only in 2016, when there was above normal precipitation, but consistently increased with nitrogen addition. Warming enhanced net photosynthesis, leaf nitrogen and ethylene production and reduced leaf lifespan in 2016 (a wet year), but not in 2017 (a drought year); the effect of warming in 2018 (a year with normal precipitation) was opposite to 2016, likely due to the below‐normal precipitation in the mid‐growing season in 2018. Nitrogen addition led to increases in leaf nitrogen, ethylene production and net photosynthesis, and declines in leaf lifespan in 2016 and 2018, but not in 2017. The ethylene‐regulated lifespan was further evidenced by the addition of CoCl2 (an ethylene biosynthesis inhibitor) that reduced ethylene production and prolonged lifespan. Structural equation modeling showed that leaf lifespan had a negative effect on plant productivity, both directly and indirectly via its negative effect on net photosynthesis, across all 3 years. Our results demonstrate the divergent responses of leaf lifespan and, in turn, plant productivity to warming under inter‐annual and intra‐annual precipitation variation, thus linking plant hormone production, functional traits and ecosystem functioning in the face of global environmental change.
Occurrence and management of severe bleeding episodes in patients with hereditary factor X deficiency
Authors: Tarantino Michael D.
Published: May 2021

Vitamin K–dependent factor X (FX) plays an important role in thrombin formation, and a deficiency in FX can cause impaired coagulation, the severity of which is usually correlated with the degree of deficiency. Due to the critical role that FX plays in the coagulation cascade, FX deficiency is associated with a higher risk of bleeding than deficiencies in other coagulation factors. Patients with the hereditary autosomal‐recessive homozygous form of FX deficiency, which occurs in approximately 1:1,000,000 individuals worldwide, are often diagnosed when they present with spontaneous life‐threatening haemorrhage (most often intracranial haemorrhage) during the first month of life. In addition to central nervous system bleeds, other severe bleeding types experienced by such patients may include umbilical cord bleeding, gastrointestinal or pulmonary haemorrhage, intramuscular haematomas and/or haemarthrosis. Delayed treatment or inadequate replacement of FX may result in developmental delays, musculoskeletal disabilities or death. The high risk of recurrent severe bleeding necessitates prophylactic replacement therapy for many individuals with severe FX deficiency. Available products for replacement therapy include plasma‐derived FX concentrate and prothrombin complex concentrates. Fresh‐frozen plasma may be used when concentrates are not available but is a less efficient means of FX replacement. This article reviews the literature on severe bleeding in individuals with hereditary FX deficiency and discusses current treatment options.
South Korean first‐tier suppliers in apparel global value chains: Upgrading and labour implications in the Asian context
Authors: KWON Hyunji , CHUNG Sun Wook , LEE Joonkoo
Published: May 2021

This article traces the historical development of apparel suppliers in the Republic of Korea, particularly the rise of first‐tier suppliers (FTSs). Using the cases of two leading FTSs, the authors examine how they expanded their international presence, especially in Asia, to become large multinationals. Particular attention is paid to the development of these FTSs during the period following the global financial crisis of the late 2000s. This article investigates whether, having rapidly grown to become partners handling a complex business environment, they now occupy a strategic position in the reconfigured apparel global value chains. It also examines their responses to labour issues, considering what their upgrading implies for workers.
The labour market fallout of COVID‐19: Who endures, who doesn't and what are the implications for inequality
Authors: SOARES Sergei , BERG Janine
Published: May 2021

Government responses to the COVID‐19 pandemic have differed in scope and design, with important implications for the labour market as a whole but also for specific groups of workers. Using labour force survey data from seven middle‐ and high‐income countries, this article analyses transitions in the labour market in the first two quarters of 2020 and compares them with transitions in the previous year. The authors find that governments that favoured wage subsidies over other forms of income support were able to lessen labour market volatility, but that in all seven countries studied the COVID‐19 pandemic exacerbated labour market inequalities.
NLRP7: From inflammasome regulation to human disease
Authors: Carriere Jessica , Dorfleutner Andrea , Stehlik Christian
Published: May 2021

Nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain (NOD) and leucine‐rich repeat (LRR)‐containing receptors or NOD‐like receptors (NLRs) are cytosolic pattern recognition receptors, which sense conserved microbial patterns and host‐derived danger signals to elicit innate immune responses. The activation of several prototypic NLRs, including NLR and pyrin domain (PYD) containing (NLRP) 1, NLRP3 and NLR and caspase recruitment domain (CARD) containing (NLRC) 4, results in the assembly of inflammasomes, which are large, cytoplasmic multiprotein signalling platforms responsible for the maturation and release of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐1β and IL‐18, and for the induction of a specialized form of inflammatory cell death called pyroptosis. However, the function of other members of the NLR family, including NLRP7, are less well understood. NLRP7 has been linked to innate immune signalling, but its precise role is still controversial as it has been shown to positively and negatively affect inflammasome responses. Inflammasomes are essential for homeostasis and host defence, but inappropriate inflammasome responses due to hereditary mutations and somatic mosaicism in inflammasome components and defective regulation have been linked to a broad spectrum of human diseases. A compelling connection between NLRP7 mutations and reproductive diseases, and in particular molar pregnancy, has been established. However, the molecular mechanisms by which NLRP7 mutations contribute to reproductive diseases are largely unknown. In this review, we focus on NLRP7 and discuss the current evidence of its role in inflammasome regulation and its implication in human reproductive diseases.
TLR2 dimer‐specific ligands selectively activate protein kinase C isoforms in Leishmania infection
Authors: Mukherjee Arkajyoti , Roy Sayoni , Patidar Ashok , Bodhale Neelam , Dandapat Jagneswar , Saha Bhaskar , Sarkar Arup
Published: May 2021

Of the thirteen Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) in mice, TLR2 has a unique ability of forming heterodimers with TLR1 and TLR6. Such associations lead to selective cellular signalling and cellular responses such as cytokine expression. One of the signalling intermediates is protein kinase C (PKC); of which, eight isoforms are expressed in macrophages. Leishmania—a protozoan parasite that resides and replicates in macrophages—selectively modulates PKC‐α, PKC‐β, PKC‐δ and PKC‐ζ isoforms in macrophages. As TLR2 plays significant roles in Leishmania infection, we examined whether these PKC isoforms play selective roles in TLR2 signalling and TLR2‐induced anti‐leishmanial functions. We observed that the TLR2 ligands—Pam3CSK4 (TLR1/2), PGN (TLR2/2) and FSL (TLR2/6)—differentially phosphorylated and translocated PKC‐α, PKC‐β, PKC‐δ and PKC‐ζ isoforms to cell membrane in uninfected and L. major‐infected macrophages. The PKC isoform‐specific inhibitors differentially altered IL‐10 and IL‐12 expression, Th1 and Th2 responses and anti‐leishmanial effects in macrophages and in BALB/c mice. While PKC isoforms’ inhibitors had insignificant effects on the Pam3CSK4‐induced anti‐leishmanial functions, PGN‐induced pro‐leishmanial effects were enhanced by PKC‐(α + β) inhibitors, whereas PKC‐(δ + ζ) inhibitors enhanced the anti‐leishmanial effects of FSL. These results indicated that the ligand‐induced TLR2 dimerization triggered differential dose‐dependent and kinetic profiles of PKC isoform activation and that selective targeting of PKC isoforms using their respective inhibitors in combination significantly modulated TLR2‐induced anti‐leishmanial functions. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of TLR2 dimer signalling through PKC isoforms and TLR2‐induced PKC isoform‐targeted anti‐leishmanial therapy.
Post‐transplant cyclophosphamide limits reactive donor T cells and delays the development of graft‐versus‐host disease in a humanized mouse model
Authors: Adhikary Sam R. , Cuthbertson Peter , Nicholson Leigh , Bird Katrina M. , Sligar Chloe , Hu Min , O'Connell Philip J. , Sluyter Ronald , Alexander Stephen I. , Watson Debbie
Published: May 2021

Graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) is a major complication of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) that develops when donor T cells in the graft become reactive against the host. Post‐transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) is increasingly used in mismatched allo‐HSCT, but how PTCy impacts donor T cells and reduces GVHD is unclear. This study aimed to determine the effect of PTCy on reactive human donor T cells and GVHD development in a preclinical humanized mouse model. Immunodeficient NOD‐scid‐IL2Rγnull mice were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) with 20 × 106 human peripheral blood mononuclear cells stained with carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) (day 0). Mice were subsequently injected (i.p.) with PTCy (33 mg kg−1) (PTCy‐mice) or saline (saline‐mice) (days 3 and 4). Mice were assessed for T‐cell depletion on day 6 and monitored for GVHD for up to 10 weeks. Flow cytometric analysis of livers at day 6 revealed lower proportions of reactive (CFSElow) human (h) CD3+ T cells in PTCy‐mice compared with saline‐mice. Over 10 weeks, PTCy‐mice showed reduced weight loss and clinical GVHD, with prolonged survival and reduced histological liver GVHD compared with saline‐mice. PTCy‐mice also demonstrated increased splenic hCD4+:hCD8+ T‐cell ratios and reduced splenic Tregs (hCD4+ hCD25+ hCD127lo) compared with saline‐mice. This study demonstrates that PTCy reduces GVHD in a preclinical humanized mouse model. This corresponded to depletion of reactive human donor T cells, but fewer human Tregs.
The social impact of COVID‐19 as perceived by the employees of a UK mental health service
Authors: Eddy Clare M.
Published: May 2021

This study explored the perceptions of NHS employees working within a UK mental health trust in relation to the social impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Questioning focussed on social isolation and desire to interact with others before and since COVID‐19; effects of safety measures including personal protective equipment and social distancing; and perceived influences of the pandemic on service users and social aspects of service delivery. All employees at an English NHS mental health service were invited to complete an anonymous online questionnaire (July–September 2020), resulting in 464 completed questionnaires. Response frequencies were summed across the total sample, and the influence of patient contact, age, and vulnerability to COVID‐19 were explored using pairwise comparisons. Approximately two thirds of employees felt there had been a fundamental change in how they felt about interacting with others, and many had lost confidence in their ability to relate emotionally to others. Respondents were keen to adhere to safety guidance, but the majority believed that face masks and social distancing could have a detrimental effect on communication and rapport within the workplace. Other concerns included passing on the virus, social isolation of employees and service users, and a reduction in community services. COVID‐19 safety measures may impact morale, communication, empathy, and the provision of client‐centred care. More generally, the pandemic has changed the attitudes of mental health workers towards social interaction, with younger employees reporting more mental health difficulties that may be linked to concerns about longer term social change.
Dental health status and hygiene in children with cerebral palsy: A matched case‐control study
Authors: Aburahma Samah K. , Mhanna Asmaa , Al‐Mousa Saba , Al‐Nusair Jowan , Al Habashneh Rola
Published: May 2021

Background

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) are at risk for oral pathology and parafunctional habits, and are reliant on caregivers for oral hygiene.

Aim

To evaluate oral hygiene habits and oral examination findings among a group of children with CP and a healthy age– and gender‐matched control group.

Design

A comparative, cross‐sectional study, consisting of a questionnaire component and a standard dental examination component, each applied to both groups.

Results

Eighty‐three children with CP and 84 healthy children were included. Parents of children with CP were more likely to be of low educational level and lack a professional line of occupation (P < .05). Children with CP were less likely to be responsible for oral hygiene maintenance, adhere to toothbrushing, or receive procedural dental care (P < .001). Food packing and drooling were significantly more likely in children with CP. Malocclusion type III was more prevalent among children with CP, as was higher gingival index and gingival enlargement index—horizontal component (P < .001). There were no differences in caries experience between the CP and control groups.

Conclusions

Children with CP have suboptimal oral hygiene habits, limited access to procedural dental care, higher parafunctional habits, and increased periodontal pathology.
Micro‐CT evaluation of ‘danger zone’ and microcrack formation in mesial root canals of primary teeth with single‐file rotary and reciprocating systems
Authors: Yüksel Burcu Nihan , Öncü Ayşenur , Çelİkten Berkan , Bİlecenoğlu Burak , Orhan Ayşe Işıl , Orhan Kaan
Published: May 2021

Background

Although single‐file rotary systems are accepted in the field of paediatric dentistry in terms of providing time advantage, research works continue due to the variable anatomical structure of the root canal.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate rotary systems in different kinematics in terms of microcracks and the shaping of the danger zone in primary molars by micro‐CT.

Design

The mesial canals of primary molars (n = 30) were used. Root canals in each group (n = 10) were prepared with single‐file rotary systems (One Shape®, OS; XP‐endo® Shaper, XP‐ES; WaveOne Gold, WOG). The images were evaluated for dentin thickness in the danger zone and microcrack formation.

Results

WOG caused the highest dentin reduction in the danger zone area. OS led to significantly less dentin reduction than XP‐ES and WOG (P < .05). The XP‐ES showed the highest number of microcracks (P < .05). No statistically significant difference was found between WOG and OS (P > .05). In all systems, more microcracks were observed in the middle third than coronal and apical.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this study, the rotary systems were superior to reciprocating in terms of shaping ability in the danger zone. It is thought that further studies with different systems should be designed considering the anatomical variations and chemical composition of primary teeth.
Dietary practices among children with early childhood caries and the associated factors: A qualitative study
Authors: Shrikrishna Suprabha Baranya , Shenoy Ramya , Mahabala Karuna Yermunja , Nayak Anupama Panakaje , Rao Arathi , D'Souza Violet
Published: May 2021

Background

Parents play a vital role in their children's dietary habits. A comprehensive understanding of the perspectives of parents of children with early childhood caries (ECC) is required for prevention program planning.

Aim

To describe the parental perspective of the dietary habits of children with ECC.

Design

In this descriptive qualitative study, the participants were parents of children with ECC receiving routine dental care. Data were collected through focus groups using an interview guide. Data were analyzed manually using the content analysis method.

Results

Five focus groups involving 27 participants were conducted. Two main categories emerged: cariogenic food literacy and factors that affect food choices. Most of the participants knew that sugary foods are responsible for tooth decay. Parents felt that children's snacking habits were influenced by multiple factors, such as family environment, peers, commercials on television or the Internet, and affordability of food.

Conclusions

Parents are not able to translate their knowledge into action to modify their children's diet as they may lack self‐efficacy and feel pressured by their children, the media and the environment in which they live. Motivational interviewing of parents and governmental and school policies to reduce sugary food consumption may be required.
Origin and diversification of flax and their relationship with heterostyly across the range
Authors: Maguilla Enrique , Escudero Marcial , Ruíz‐Martín José , Arroyo Juan
Published: May 2021

Aim

Understanding plant diversity and how different traits have shaped the current biodiversity setting across the world is one of the major challenges for evolutionary biology. In this sense, genus Linum have been broadly studied as a model of species showing heterostyly, but no studies have attempted to investigate possible correlations between heterostyly and diversification. Thus, in this study we aim to explore the origin and diversification of the genus Linum and to determine its centre of diversity and potential source for the colonisation of other areas. Also, we aim to study how heterostyly may have shaped diversification rates and colonisation patterns in the genus.

Location

Worldwide (focused on the Western Palearctic).

Taxon

Genus Linum L. (Linaceae).

Methods

We analysed nuclear ITS and plastid ndhF, matK and trnL‐F DNA regions in a total of 103 samples of 93 different species of the genus Linum, as well as seven samples from other Linaceae. We performed divergence time analysis in BEAST2 under a birth‐death tree model, then used the resulting tree for an ancestral area reconstruction using the R package “BioGeoBEARS.” Finally, we estimated diversification rates using BAMM and examined the correlation between diversification rates and geographic ranges and heterostyly.

Results

Linum s.l. diverged during the late Eocene to mid Oligocene (27.2–38.29 Ma at 95% highest posterior density interval) in the Western Palearctic, where most species diversified. Within‐area speciation is the main mechanism of diversification in the genus. Most dispersal events occurred from the Western Palearctic to other regions, probably through long‐distance dispersal (LDD). No changes were found regarding diversification rates in specific clades or in relation with reproductive system (heterostyly) or geographic areas. Colonisation of new areas was achieved mostly by monomorphic lineages, whereas heterostylous species mostly remained in the ancestral Western Paleartic area.

Main conclusions

The Western Palearctic acted as a source of dispersal in seven out of nine total dispersal events but never as a sink. All species or lineages that colonised new areas after LDD were monomorphic for style length, as predicted by the theory on reproductive traits of colonising species. Thus, heterostyly is shown to affect establishment success in a new area. Neither biogeographic changes nor analysed trait changes can explain speciation nor extinction rates in Linum. Our results confirm that the evolution of heterostyly is related to the paleogeographic history and are not consistent with the idea that a key innovation or “dispersification” has shaped the diversification patterns in Linum.