bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical synthesis, biological activities, and molecular simulations of novel sulfonylurea compounds bearing ortho‐alkoxy substitutions
Authors: Shang Ming‐Hao , Zhang Kai , Zhang Jia‐Shuang , Niu Cong‐Wei , Li Yong‐Hong , Song Fu‐Hang , Wang Jian‐Guo
Published: July 2022

A series of 51 novel sulfonylurea compounds with ortho‐alkoxy substituent at phenyl ring were chemically synthesized and spectroscopically characterized. The biological activities of the target compounds were evaluated using the enzyme inhibition against acetohydroxyacid synthase (AHAS; EC 2.2.1.6) from fungal or plant source, as well as cell‐based antifungal assay and greenhouse pot herbicidal assay. Among the target compounds, 6e showed desirable antifungal activity against Candida albicans standard isolate sc5314 with minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) of 0.39 mg/L (0.98 μM) after 24 h, and 6a demonstrated promising pre‐emergence herbicidal activity against Echinochloacrus‐galli at 30 g/ha dosage. Representative compounds 6a, 6e, and 6i showed no cell cytotoxicity even at 40 mg/L concentration. Theoretical DFT calculations indicated HOMO maps should be considered to understand the structure–activity relationships. The present study has hence provided useful information for further discovery of novel antifungal agents or selective herbicides.
Synthesis and properties of poly(styrene‐co‐maleic acid) macromolecular reactive dyes
Authors: Wang Fuchun , Ma Wei , Tang Bingtao , Zhang Shufen
Published: July 2022

To obtain a new type of macromolecular reactive dye with high fixation and good light fastness, poly(styrene‐co‐maleic acid) was synthesised by co‐polymerisation of styrene and maleic anhydride, then, through nitration, reduction, diazotisation and coupling reaction, novel macromolecular reactive dyes were prepared with a solubility greater than 60 g/L. The dyes were used to dye cotton fabrics; the results showed their fixation was more than 92%, and both the rub and wash fastness of the dyes were good. The light fastness of the red and blue dyes with the ethoxy group on melamine was grade 4, and for the yellow dye reached grade 5. The poly(styrene‐co‐maleic acid) macromolecular reactive dyes exhibit very good application prospects in practice.
Predictors of time in target glucose range in real‐world users of the MiniMed 780G system
Authors: Castañeda Javier , Mathieu Chantal , Aanstoot Henk‐Jan , Arrieta Arcelia , Da Silva Julien , Shin John , Cohen Ohad
Published: July 2022

Aim

Automated insulin delivery systems have improved glycaemic control in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The analysis investigated predictors of improved sensor glucose time‐in‐range (TIR; 70‐180 mg/dl) based on real‐world use of the MiniMed 780G advanced hybrid closed‐loop (AHCL) system.

Methods

Data uploaded by MiniMed 780G system users from August 2020‐July 2021 were analysed using univariate and multivariable models to identify baseline, demographic and system use characteristics associated with TIR after AHCL initiation (post‐AHCL). System settings associated with improved TIR post‐AHCL were identified and their impact on time below range (TBR, <70 mg/dl) post‐AHCL was explored.

Results

In total, 12 870 users were included, of which 2977 had baseline sensor glucose data. Baseline TIR and time in AHCL (defined as the percentage of time the system was in Auto‐mode) were positively associated with TIR post‐AHCL with larger values predicting greater mean TIR post‐AHCL. Characteristics inversely associated with TIR post‐AHCL included the percentage of daily basal insulin dose, daily autocorrection dose, number of daily AHCL exits triggered by the system and number of daily alarms, wherein larger values of these characteristics predicted lower mean TIR post‐AHCL. System settings that predicted the largest mean TIR post‐AHCL were active insulin time of 2 h and glucose target of 100 mg/dl. Active insulin time was not associated with TBR post‐AHCL.

Conclusion

Modifiable factors, including optimized pump settings, can allow users to achieve glycaemic targets with >80% TIR. The findings from this analysis will potentially guide the optimal use of the MiniMed 780G system and facilitate meaningful improvements in safe glycaemic control.
A modelling approach to evaluate land management options for recently burnt catchments
Authors: Basso Marta , Serpa Dalila , Rocha João , Martins Martinho A. S. , Keizer Jacob , Vieira Diana C. S.
Published: July 2022

Scars left by wildfires are easily visible in the Mediterranean landscape and, like any wound, even those left by fires must be treated to regenerate properly. If not managed, spontaneous vegetation regeneration will eventually cover the affected area, restoring the hydrological cycle. The reforestation of burned stands, involving ploughing the land and building terraces on steep slopes, together with fertilisation of the area, is also common. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was used to simulate three post‐fire land management options for a small catchment in central Portugal. The choice of this basin relates to the implementation of terraces to create a eucalyptus forest production area 7 months after a fire completely burned the catchment. Two alternative post‐fire scenarios were designed, one simulating the spontaneous recovery of the ecosystem and the second reproducing a catchment‐scale implementation of a highly effective erosion mitigation measure (mulching). Then, the mulch scenario and the actual eucalyptus cycle were compared with the spontaneous recovery scenario to appraise the best management choice. The post‐fire and post‐terracing periods showed a satisfactory agreement between simulated and observed daily parameters. Concerning the management alternatives evaluated, mulching and terracing reduced soil loss and sediment transported in streams compared to spontaneous recovery. However, higher flow volumes and phosphorus exports were predicted under terraced conditions, likely due to increased infiltration capacity and accelerated leaching processes, raising concerns about stream water quality. These findings can be applied to other Mediterranean catchments affected by wildfires and in which post‐fire management actions are planned, making stakeholders aware of the impacts and uncertainties of post‐fire scenarios, thus improving the management of burnt areas.

Highlights

Calibration of SWAT model for three different post‐fire management practices.

Satisfactory model performance in simulating water quantity and quality for both periods.

Spontaneous recovery evidenced high soil losses during all the simulated period.

The implementation of terraces and the application of mulch reduced sediment transport.
The gut microbiome and melanoma: A review
Authors: Makaranka Stanislau , Scutt Freya , Frixou Mikaela , Wensley Katherine E. , Sharma Ravi , Greenhowe Jennifer
Published: July 2022

Disturbances in the microbial ecosystem have been implemented in chronic inflammation, immune evasion and carcinogenesis, with certain microbes associated with the development of specific cancers. In recent times, the gut microbiome has been recognised as a potential novel player in the pathogenesis and treatment of malignant melanoma. It has been shown that the composition of gut microbiota in early‐stage melanoma changes from in situ to invasive and then to metastatic disease. The gut bacterial and fungal profile has also been found to be significantly different in melanoma patients compared to controls. Multiple studies of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapies have shown that the commensal microbiota may have an impact on anti‐tumor immunity and therefore ICI response in cancer patients. When it comes to chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments, studies demonstrate that gut microbiota are invaluable in the repair of radiation and chemotherapy‐induced damage and therapeutic manipulation of gut microbiota can be an effective strategy to deal with side effects. Studies demonstrate the oncogenic and tumor‐suppressive properties of the gut microbiome, which may play a role in the pathogenesis of melanoma. Despite this, investigations into specific interactions are still in its infancy, but starting to gain momentum as more significant and clinically relevant effects are emerging.
Three Natural Andesitic to Rhyolitic Glasses (OJY‐1, OH‐1, OA‐1) as Reference Materials for In Situ Microanalysis
Authors: Wu Shitou , Audétat Andreas , Jochum Klaus Peter , Wang Hao , Chen Jingyuan , Stoll Brigitte , Zhang Chao , Bao Zhian , Yang Shuiyuan , Li Chaofeng , Wang Xuefeng , Xu Chunxue , Xu Lei , Huang Chao , Xie Liewen , Yang Yueheng , Yang Jinhui
Published: July 2022

Three natural geological glasses (andesitic glass OJY‐1, and rhyolitic obsidians OH‐1 and OA‐1) of specimen sizes 50–150 g were characterised as reference materials for in situ microanalysis of major and trace elements, and Pb isotope ratios. Utilised techniques include isotope‐dilution analyses by TIMS and MC‐ICP‐MS, bulk analyses by XRF, ICP‐OES, ICP‐MS, and microanalysis (10–120 μm spot size) by electron probe microanalyser, LA‐ICP‐MS and LA‐MC‐ICP‐MS. Microanalyses (10–120 μm) indicate that all three glasses are homogeneous with respect to fifty‐four out of fifty‐eight determined elements and Pb isotope ratios, except for Ni in OJY‐1, and Cu, Zr and Ce in OH‐1. The determination of reference values as well as their uncertainties at the 95% confidence level closely followed International Organization for Standardization (ISO) guidelines and the certification protocol of the International Association of Geoanalysts (IAG). These three glasses are fully natural without any subsequent heat treatment, and they represent useful additions to the widely distributed MPI‐DING, USGS and CGSG reference glasses for microanalytical techniques such as electron probe microanalysis, μ‐XRF, LA‐ICP‐MS and SIMS.
Study on spatio‐temporal variation mechanism of phytic acid contents of wheat grains
Authors: Sun Tianjia , Zhang Yingquan , Wang Shuang , Guo Boli , Yang Qingli , Zhao Haiyan
Published: July 2022

This study aimed to understand the spatio‐temporal variation mechanism of phytic acid in wheat. Firstly, phytic acid contents of wheat from the main producing areas in China were investigated. Then in combination with statistical methods, the effects of the geographical origin, variety, harvest year, their interactions as well as different irrigation frequency on phytic acid contents of wheat were comprehensively analysed based on field experiments. Furthermore, the structure of phytic acid in wheat was analysed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The phytic acid contents of wheat in China ranged from 6.262 to 9.872 g kg−1. All the factors had significant effects on phytic acid contents of wheat. The characteristic spectra related to phytic acid in wheat included 3348, 1156, 1081, 1019, 927 and 861 cm−1. The variety had the greatest impact on phytic acid contents of wheat. This study could provide reference for breeding wheat with low phytic acid contents.
A superior approach for production of protein isolates from de‐oiled soy meal and its comparison with conventional method
Authors: Yadav Deep Narayan , Tushir Surya , Sethi Swati , Mir Nisar A. , Wadhwa Ritika , Bansal Sangita
Published: July 2022

Protein isolates were prepared from de‐oiled soy meal by a superior approach, i.e. biological precipitation using two lactic acid bacterial strains and a conventional acid precipitation method. The isolates were characterised for physico‐chemical, functional, anti‐nutritional and structural properties and compared with isolates prepared using the conventional method. The purity, yield, lightness, whiteness index and degree of hydrolysis were higher (P ≤ 0.05) for biologically precipitated soy protein isolates (BPSPIs). The functional properties of BPSPI samples were also superior. BPSPIs showed 1.85 mg g−1 and 1.44 TIU mL−1, whereas acid‐precipitated soy protein isolates (APSPIs) showed 3.65 mg g−1 and 3.16 TIU mL−1 of phytic acid and trypsin inhibition activity respectively. A sharp bend in the wavelength ranges from 3700 to 3900 cm−1 was observed in BPSPI samples, which depicts structural changes owing to fermentation by lactic acid bacteria. Two characteristic peaks at 2Ɵ = 20° and 2Ɵ = 15° were observed in both the samples; however, intensity and crystallinity were higher in BPSPIs. Hexagonal‐shaped particles of different sizes were displayed by field emission scanning electron microscopy images. The results thus confirm that the soy protein samples prepared through the biological precipitation process had better properties over conventionally prepared soy protein samples, which can be further used as novel ingredients in protein‐based functional products.
Gold nanoparticle‐carbon nanotube nanohybrids with peroxidase‐like activity for the highly‐sensitive immunoassay of kanamycin in milk
Authors: Zeng Kun , Chen Bin , Li Yuxin , Meng Hui , Wu Qinyan , Yang Jian , Liang Hongfang
Published: July 2022

Owing to the increasing incidences of antibiotic residues being found in foods of animal‐origin, rapid and reliable screening methods for detecting these residues are urgently required. This study aimed to develop a robust and ultrasensitive colorimetric immunoassay based on nanohybrids for the rapid screening of kanamycin (KAN) residues in milk. The HAuCl4 solution was directly reduced on the multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) using a one‐step synthesis method to obtain the Au/MWCNTs nanohybrids. The Au/MWCNTs exhibited mimetic peroxidase activity and higher affinities for the TMB and H2O2 compared with horseradish peroxidase and other nanohybrids. A direct competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (dcELISA) based on Au/MWCNTs was developed and employed for KAN detection in milk samples under optimised conditions. The dcELISA showed high sensitivity toward KAN residues, with a detection limit of 11.2 pg/mL. Moreover, this novel immunoassay displayed high precision and accuracy in milk samples, with a recovery rate ranging from 94.3 to 124.5% and a coefficient variation from 7.8 to 11.3%. Eight real milk samples were found to contain a KAN concentration in the range of ND–0.26 ng/mL. Therefore, this dcELISA based on the Au/MWCNTs nanohybrid has promising potential for applications in food monitoring and quality control.
Characterization of an experimental model to determine streptococcal M protein–induced autoimmune cardiac and neurobehavioral abnormalities
Authors: Rafeek Rukshan AM , Hamlin Adam S , Andronicos Nicholas M , Lawlor Craig S , McMillan David J , Sriprakash Kadaba S , Ketheesan Natkunam
Published: July 2022

Group A streptococcal (GAS) infection is associated with a spectrum of autoimmune diseases including acute rheumatic fever/rheumatic heart disease (ARF/RHD) and neurobehavioral abnormalities. Antibodies against GAS M proteins cross‐react with host tissue proteins in the heart and brain leading to the symptomatology observed in ARF/RHD. As throat carriage of Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis (SDSE) has been reported to be relatively high in some ARF/RHD endemic regions compared with GAS, and both SDSE and GAS express coiled‐coil surface protein called M protein, we hypothesized that streptococci other than GAS can also associated with ARF/RHD and neurobehavioral abnormalities. Neurobehavioral assessments and electrocardiography were performed on Lewis rats before and after exposure to recombinant GAS and SDSE M proteins. Histological assessments were performed to confirm inflammatory changes in cardiac and neuronal tissues. ELISA and Western blot analysis were performed to determine the cross‐reactivity of antibodies with host connective, cardiac and neuronal tissue proteins. Lewis rats injected with M proteins either from GAS or SDSE developed significant cardiac functional and neurobehavioral abnormalities in comparison to control rats injected with phosphate‐buffered saline. Antibodies against GAS and SDSE M proteins cross‐reacted with cardiac, connective and neuronal proteins. Serum from rats injected with streptococcal antigens showed higher immunoglobulin G binding to the striatum and cortex of the brain. Cardiac and neurobehavioral abnormalities observed in our experimental model were comparable to the cardinal symptoms observed in patients with ARF/RHD. Here for the first time, we demonstrate in an experimental model that M proteins from different streptococcal species could initiate and drive the autoimmune‐mediated cardiac tissue damage and neurobehavioral abnormalities.
Melded ceramic membranes: A novel fabrication method for ultrathin alumina membranes of high performance
Authors: Kirk Chin Ho , Gu Qilin , Ng Tze Chiang Albert , Tan Swee Ching , Ng How Yong , Wang John
Published: July 2022

Conventional ceramic membranes are usually fabricated on porous ceramic substrates, using a repetitive coating‐sintering process to form a multilayered structure. This results in lengthy fabrication periods and high fabrication costs. In this work, we developed a novel fabrication process, melding, by combining vacuum infiltration and pore tuning techniques to directly construct the ceramic membrane layer within the porous ceramic substrate. By careful selection of powder sizes, the detrimental penetration effect can be modified into a benefit, forming an ultrathin membrane layer with thickness less than 1.45 µm after sintering at 1200°C. Compared favorably with dip‐coated ceramic membranes, the melded ceramic membrane had much smaller nominal pore sizes (0.19 vs 0.31 µm), but much higher water permeance (>60%). The melded ceramic membrane also had the highest rejection (98.5%) toward 125 nm polystyrene latex suspensions (2 ppm), highest sustained oil removal efficiency (>90%) under oil‐in‐water emulsion (200 ppm) filtration, and the least irreversible fouling (<8.6%). The melding process also significantly reduced the raw powders required, leading to an 86% reduction in material costs, as compared to the multilayered ceramic membranes.
Seven snail species hidden in one: Biogeographic diversity in an apparently widespread periwinkle in the Southern Ocean
Authors: González‐Wevar Claudio A. , Segovia Nicolás I. , Rosenfeld Sebastián , Maturana Claudia S. , Jeldres Vanessa , Pinochet Ramona , Saucède Thomas , Morley Simon A. , Brickle Paul , Wilson Nerida G. , Spencer Hamish G. , Poulin Elie
Published: July 2022

Aim

The Antarctic Circumpolar Current imparts significant structure to the Southern Ocean biota. The Antarctic Polar Front is a major barrier to dispersal, with separate species (or sometimes intraspecific clades) normally occurring either side of this feature. We examined the biogeographic structure of an apparent exception to this rule in a widespread genus of the Southern Ocean, the periwinkle snail, Laevilitorina.

Location

Southern Ocean.

Taxon

Littorinidae, Laevilitorininae, Laevilitorina.

Methods

Using 750 specimens from 16 Southern Ocean Laevilitorina populations across >8000 km, we analysed mitochondrial COI and nuclear 28S sequences to uncover the evolutionary history of these marine near‐shore snails. We utilized multi‐locus phylogenetic reconstructions, species‐delimitation analyses, divergence‐time estimations and geometric morphometrics.

Results

Molecular data revealed that the widespread nominal species L. caliginosa comprises seven species‐level clades, all supported by morphological data, whereas the Antarctic nominal species L. antarctica, L. claviformis and L. umbilicata are conspecific. Six “caliginosa” clades are restricted to southern South America, but one lineage extends from Antarctica to distant sub‐Antarctic islands on both sides of the APF. Geometric morphometrics also identified significant differences among these clades, but uncoupled from genetic differentiation.

Main conclusions

The apparent trans‐APF distribution of the poorly dispersing Laevilitorina caliginosa is largely illusory: this taxon consists of at least seven discrete species, only one of which has a trans‐APF distribution. Similar to most Laevilitorina species, the remaining six “caliginosa” clades are narrow endemics. Biogeographical patterns in Laevilitorina reflect the role of vicariance associated with geological processes together with recent long‐distance dispersal events. Laevilitorina originated near the Eocene/Oligocene boundary and diversified during the Miocene and the Pliocene. Laevilitorina is not a cryptic‐species complex: speciation was accompanied by hitherto unrecognized morphological differentiation. This study represents the most detailed molecular work on Southern‐Ocean littorinids and reveals unforeseen diversity across this globally important region.
Decrease of MtDNA copy number affects mitochondrial function and involves in the pathological consequences of ischaemic stroke
Authors: Zhang Zhaojing , Yang Dongzhi , Zhou Baixue , Luan Yingying , Yao Qihui , Liu Yang , Yang Shangdong , Jia Jing , Xu Yan , Bie Xiaoshuai , Wang Yuanli , Li Zhihao , Li Aifan , Zheng Hong , He Ying
Published: July 2022

The mtDNA copy number can affect the function of mitochondria and play an important role in the development of diseases. However, there are few studies on the mechanism of mtDNA copy number variation and its effects in IS. The specific mechanism of mtDNA copy number variation is still unclear. In this study, mtDNA copy number of 101 IS patients and 101 normal controls were detected by qRT‐PCR, the effect of D‐loop variation on mtDNA copy number of IS patients was explored. Then, a TFAM gene KD‐OE PC12 cell model was constructed to explore the effect of mtDNA copy number variation on mitochondrial function. The results showed that the mtDNA copy number level of the IS group was significantly lower than that of the normal control group (p < 0.05). The relative expression of TFAM gene mRNA in the cells of the OGD/R treatment group was significantly lower than that of the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, after TFAM gene knockdown and over‐expression plasmids were transfected into HEK 293T cells, mtDNA copy number and ATP production level of Sh‐TFAM transfection group was significantly decreased (p < 0.05), while mtDNA copy number and ATP production level of OE‐TFAM transfected group were significantly higher than that of blank control group and OE‐ctrl negative control group (p < 0.01). Our study demonstrated that mitochondrial D‐loop mutation and TFAM gene dysfunction can cause the decrease of mtDNA copy number, thus affecting the mitochondrial metabolism and function of nerve cells, participating in the pathological damage mechanism of IS.
A comprehensive prognostic tool for older adults: Predicting death, ADL disability, and walking disability simultaneously
Authors: Lee Alexandra K. , Diaz‐Ramirez L. Grisell , Boscardin W. John , Smith Alexander K. , Lee Sei J.
Published: July 2022

Background

Many clinical and financial decisions for older adults depend on the future risk of disability and mortality. Prognostic tools for long‐term disability risk in a general population are lacking. We aimed to create a comprehensive prognostic tool that predicts the risk of mortality, of activities of daily living (ADL) disability, and walking disability simultaneously using the same set of variables.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal analysis of the nationally‐representative Health and Retirement Study (HRS). We included community‐dwelling adults aged ≥70 years who completed a core interview in the 2000 wave of HRS, with follow‐up through 2018. We evaluated 40 predictors encompassing demographics, diseases, physical functioning, and instrumental ADLs. We applied novel methods to optimize three models simultaneously while prioritizing variables that take less time to ascertain during backward stepwise elimination. The death prediction model used Cox regression and both the models for walking disability and for ADL disability used Fine and Gray competing‐risk regression. We examined calibration plots and generated optimism‐corrected statistics of discrimination using bootstrapping. To simulate unavailable patient data, we also evaluated models excluding one or two variables from the final model.

Results

In 6646 HRS participants, 2662 developed walking disability, 3570 developed ADL disability, and 5689 died during a median follow‐up of 9.5 years. The final prognostic tool had 16 variables. The optimism‐corrected integrated area under the curve (iAUC) was 0.799 for mortality, 0.685 for walking disability, and 0.703 for ADL disability. At each percentile of predicted mortality risk, there was a substantial spread in the predicted risks of walking disability and ADL disability. Discrimination and calibration remained good even when missing one or two predictors from the model. This model is now available on ePrognosis (https://eprognosis.ucsf.edu/alexlee.php)

Conclusions

Given the variability in disability risk for people with similar mortality risks, using individualized risks of disabilities may inform clinical and financial decisions for older adults.
Cutaneous reactions after COVID‐19 vaccination in Turkey: A multicenter study
Authors: Cebeci Kahraman Filiz , Savaş Erdoğan Sevil , Aktaş Nurhan Döner , Albayrak Hülya , Türkmen Dursun , Borlu Murat , Arıca Deniz Aksu , Demirbaş Abdullah , Akbayrak Atiye , Polat Ekinci Algün , Gökçek Gözde Emel , Çelik Hilal Ayvaz , Taşolar Mustafa Kaan , An İsa , Temiz Selami Aykut , Hazinedar Emel , Ayhan Erhan , Hızlı Pelin , Solak Eda Öksüm , Kılıç Arzu , Yılmaz Ertan
Published: July 2022

Objectives

In this study covering all of Turkey, we aimed to define cutaneous and systemic adverse reactions in our patient population after COVID‐19 vaccination with the Sinovac/CoronaVac (inactivated SARS‐CoV‐2) and Pfizer/BioNTech (BNT162b2) vaccines.

Methods

This prospective, cross‐sectional study included individuals presenting to the dermatology or emergency outpatient clinics of a total of 19 centers after having been vaccinated with the COVID‐19 vaccines. Systemic, local injection site, and non‐local cutaneous reactions after vaccination were identified, and their rates were determined.

Results

Of the 2290 individuals vaccinated between April 15 and July 15, 2021, 2097 (91.6%) received the CoronaVac vaccine and 183 (8%) BioNTech. Systemic reactions were observed at a rate of 31.0% after the first CoronaVac dose, 31.1% after the second CoronaVac dose, 46.4% after the first BioNTech dose, and 46.2% after the second BioNTech dose. Local injection site reactions were detected at a rate of 35.6% after the first CoronaVac dose, 35.7% after the second CoronaVac dose, 86.9% after the first BioNTech dose, and 94.1% after the second BioNTech dose. A total of 133 non‐local cutaneous reactions were identified after the CoronaVac vaccine (2.9% after the first dose and 3.5% after the second dose), with the most common being urticaria/angioedema, pityriasis rosea, herpes zoster, and maculopapular rash. After BioNTech, 39 non‐local cutaneous reactions were observed to have developed (24.8% after the first dose and 5% after the second dose), and the most common were herpes zoster, delayed large local reaction, pityriasis rosea, and urticaria/angioedema in order of frequency. Existing autoimmune diseases were triggered in 2.1% of the patients vaccinated with CoronaVac and 8.2% of those vaccinated with BioNTech.

Conclusions

There are no comprehensive data on cutaneous adverse reactions specific to the CoronaVac vaccine. We determined the frequency of adverse reactions from the dermatologist's point of view after CoronaVac and BioNTech vaccination and identified a wide spectrum of non‐local cutaneous reactions. Our data show that CoronaVac is associated with less harmful reactions while BioNTech may result in more serious reactions, such as herpes zoster, anaphylaxis, and triggering of autoimmunity. However, most of these reactions were self‐limiting or required little therapeutic intervention.
Trial of labor after two cesarean sections: A retrospective case–control study
Authors: Horgan Rebecca , Hossain Saif , Fulginiti Adriana , Patras Ariana , Massaro Robert , Abuhamad Alfred Z. , Kawakita Tetsuya , Graebe Robert
Published: July 2022

Aim

The objective of this study was to compare neonatal and maternal outcomes among women with two previous cesarean deliveries who undergo trial of labor after two cesarean section (TOLA2C) versus elective repeat cesarean delivery (ERCD). Our primary outcome was neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission. Secondary outcomes included APGAR score <7 at 5 min, TOLA2C success rate, uterine rupture, postpartum hemorrhage, maternal blood transfusion, maternal bowel and bladder injury, immediate postpartum infection, and maternal mortality.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was undertaken at a community medical center from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2018. Inclusion criteria were women with a vertex singleton gestation at term and a history of two prior cesarean sections. Exclusion criteria included a previous successful TOLA2C, prior classical uterine incision or abdominal myomectomy, placenta previa or invasive placentation, multiple gestation, nonvertex presentation, history of uterine rupture or known fetal anomaly. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were assessed using Fisher exact test and Wilcoxon rank sum test.

Results

A total of 793 patients fulfilled study criteria. There were no differences in neonatal intensive care unit admissions or 5‐min APGAR scores <7 between the two groups. Sixty‐eight percent of women who underwent TOLAC (N = 82) had a successful vaginal delivery. The uterine rupture rate was 1.16% (N = 1) in the TOLA2C group with no case of uterine rupture in the ERCD group. No difference in maternal morbidity was noted between the two groups. No maternal or neonatal mortalities occurred in either group.

Conclusions

There was no difference in maternal or neonatal morbidity among patients in our study population with two previous cesarean sections who opted for TOLA2C versus ERCD.
“Those Who Cannot See the Whole Are Offended by the Apparent Deformity of a Part”: Disability in Augustine's City of God
Authors: Massmann Alexander
Published: July 2022

In De ciuitate Dei (ciu.), Augustine famously calls people with disabilities created on purpose by an absolutely competent God (16.8). On the whole, however, Augustine's views on disabilities in ciu. are often misunderstood. The statement about the creation of people with disabilities is part of a discussion of the theodicy question that implies that the goodness of people with disabilities is not open to experience and must be accepted on faith. This negative background assumption results from Augustine's view that dignity emerges from the embodied beauty, rationality, and utility of the ensouled body (22). Augustine gives several examples of how disabilities reduce dignity along with these dimensions, as “deformity defeats beauty” (19.4). In eternal salvation, however, disabilities will be removed (22). Martyrs will perhaps retain scars in heaven, but these particular scars will be of such a kind that there is “not deformitas in them, but dignitas” (22.19). If in the resurrection for eternal life God removes congenital disabilities that God created so competently, what is their purpose in the first place? Augustine regards disabilities as temporal embodied warnings of eternal corporeal punishment (21.8). As a concluding perspective, the alternative view of disabilities by the Apostle Paul will be considered.
Length–weight relationships of seven small indigenous fish species from the Tapti River in peninsular India
Authors: Bhakta Dibakar , Meetei Wakambam Anand , Kamble Suhas Prakash , Chanu Thangjam Nirupada , Suresh Vettath Raghavan , Das Basanta Kumar
Published: July 2022

Length–weight relationships of seven small indigenous fishes collected from the middle and lower stretch of the Tapti River in India were determined. The specimens were caught with drag nets (0 mm mesh size), gill nets (10–20 mm knot‐to‐knot mesh length) and scoop nets (0 mm) from the Maharashtra, and Gujarat state stretches of the Tapti River from November 2018 to December 2019. Digital calliper and digital balances were used to measure the total length (TL) and body weight (BW) of all fish specimens respectively. The growth coefficient b varied from 2.758 (Parambassis ranga) to 3.298 (Osteobrama cotio), and the LWRs were highly significant (p < .005). The present study established LWRs for the first time for seven fish species in the respective riverine habitat, including providing a new maximum length record for Corica soborna. The results of the present study will be useful for sustainable management and conservation of respective species in the river and its associated waterbodies.
Nova Colinas, Maranhão State: A newly confirmed, complex impact structure in Brazil
Authors: Reimold Wolf Uwe , Ferrière Ludovic , Crósta Álvaro Penteado , Vasconcelos Marcos Alberto Rodrigues , Gottwald Manfred , da Silva Borges Mauricio , de Almeida Teodoro Isnard Ribeiro , Pereira Fernando Lessa , Goés Ana Maria , Hauser Natalia , Jessell Mark , Baratoux David
Published: July 2022

The Nova Colinas structure is an approximately 7 km wide, nearly circular feature centered at 07°09′33″S/46°06′30″W in Nova Colinas municipality in southwestern Maranhão State, Brazil. The area has been investigated for 40 yr and it has been suggested repeatedly that the structure could be of impact origin—without proof having been furnished. Magnetic anomaly maps depict the structure clearly with a strong, positive magnetic anomaly over the apparent rim zone. The central area is characterized by significant positive K and Th radiometric anomalies. Fieldwork showed that the structure has annular features along the outside and some prominent, structurally dissected hills in the interior. Thirty‐three arenite samples were collected for petrographic analysis, mostly from within the structure. Microdeformation, in the form of cataclasis; concussion fractures related to compaction, and presence of planar fractures, feather features, and planar deformation features in quartz are reported. Three samples with a multitude of quartz grains with these microdeformations were analyzed by universal stage to determine the crystallographic orientations of planar fractures and planar deformation features. The results provide robust evidence that these microdeformation features represent shock metamorphism, with low (approximately 5–10 GPa) to moderate (10–16 and 10–20 GPa) shock levels. Thus, the Nova Colinas structure is now confirmed as a bona fide meteorite impact structure. The structure is moderately eroded, as shown by the absence of stronger shock deformation. The still limited available structural geological field evidence, paired with remote sensing and geophysical data, indicates that the innermost part of the structure may have a sizable remnant of a central uplift. The Nova Colinas impact age is only poorly constrained from stratigraphic inference to an upper limit of about 200–250 Ma.
The role of multiple Pleistocene refugia in promoting diversification in the Pacific Northwest
Authors: Smith Megan L. , Wallace Jessica , Tank David C. , Sullivan Jack , Carstens Bryan C.
Published: July 2022

Pleistocene glacial cycles drastically changed the distributions of taxa endemic to temperate rainforests in the Pacific Northwest, with many experiencing reduced habitat suitability during glacial periods. In this study, we investigate whether glacial cycles promoted intraspecific divergence and whether subsequent range changes led to secondary contact and gene flow. For seven invertebrate species endemic to the PNW, we estimated species distribution models (SDMs) and projected them onto current and historical climate conditions to assess how habitat suitability changed during glacial cycles. Using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data from these species, we assessed population genetic structure and used a machine‐learning approach to compare models with and without gene flow between populations upon secondary contact after the last glacial maximum (LGM). Finally, we estimated divergence times and rates of gene flow between populations. SDMs suggest that there was less suitable habitat in the North Cascades and Northern Rocky Mountains during glacial compared to interglacial periods, resulting in reduced habitat suitability and increased habitat fragmentation during the LGM. Our genomic data identify population structure in all taxa, and support gene flow upon secondary contact in five of the seven taxa. Parameter estimates suggest that population divergences date to the later Pleistocene for most populations. Our results support a role of refugial dynamics in driving intraspecific divergence in the Cascades Range. In these invertebrates, population structure often does not correspond to current biogeographic or environmental barriers. Rather, population structure may reflect refugial lineages that have since expanded their ranges, often leading to secondary contact between once isolated lineages.
Combining GWAS and population genomic analyses to characterize coevolution in a legume‐rhizobia symbiosis
Authors: Epstein Brendan , Burghardt Liana T. , Heath Katy D. , Grillo Michael A. , Kostanecki Adam , Hämälä Tuomas , Young Nevin D. , Tiffin Peter
Published: July 2022

The mutualism between legumes and rhizobia is clearly the product of past coevolution. However, the nature of ongoing evolution between these partners is less clear. To characterize the nature of recent coevolution between legumes and rhizobia, we used population genomic analysis to characterize selection on functionally annotated symbiosis genes as well as on symbiosis gene candidates identified through a two‐species association analysis. For the association analysis, we inoculated each of 202 accessions of the legume host Medicago truncatula with a community of 88 Sinorhizobia (Ensifer) meliloti strains. Multistrain inoculation, which better reflects the ecological reality of rhizobial selection in nature than single‐strain inoculation, allows strains to compete for nodulation opportunities and host resources and for hosts to preferentially form nodules and provide resources to some strains. We found extensive host by symbiont, that is, genotype‐by‐genotype, effects on rhizobial fitness and some annotated rhizobial genes bear signatures of recent positive selection. However, neither genes responsible for this variation nor annotated host symbiosis genes are enriched for signatures of either positive or balancing selection. This result suggests that stabilizing selection dominates selection acting on symbiotic traits and that variation in these traits is under mutation‐selection balance. Consistent with the lack of positive selection acting on host genes, we found that among‐host variation in growth was similar whether plants were grown with rhizobia or N‐fertilizer, suggesting that the symbiosis may not be a major driver of variation in plant growth in multistrain contexts.
Oral leukoplakia diagnosis and treatment in Europe and Australia: Oral Medicine Practitioners' attitudes and practice
Authors: Pentenero Monica , Sutera Samuele , Lodi Giovanni , Bagan Jose V. , Farah Camile S.
Published: July 2022

The management of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) including oral leukoplakia (OL) is not currently structured according to agreed guidelines. The current report presents survey data gathered from Oral Medicine Practitioners (OMPs) in Europe and Australia and is aimed to investigate attitudes and practice in the diagnosis, risk stratification and treatment of OL. In the presence of a clinical provisional diagnosis of OL, respondents reported always undertaking biopsy in 83% of cases, with most OMPs also relying on diagnostic adjuncts. The potential for malignant transformation is almost invariably assessed through epithelial dysplasia status, with other biomarkers described in the literature used less often. Active treatment of OL was considered mandatory by 20% of OMPs, while others reserve treatment for selected cases only. OMPs are mostly driven to active treatment by lesion‐related features which are frequently jointly considered including lesion site, clinical appearance and dysplasia status. Inconsistent assessment was observed regarding mild dysplasia, lesion size, presence of unavoidable trauma, exposure to tobacco and patient age. Frequently observed geographical variations were seldom statistically significant. In agreement with previous surveys, a lack of consensus around the management of OL was observed, supporting claims from learned academies and societies for treatment guidelines aiming to reduce inter‐practitioner variability.
Randomized controlled trial of low vs high oxygen during neonatal anesthesia: Oxygenation, feasibility, and oxidative stress
Authors: Karlsson Victoria , Sporre Bengt , Fredén Filip , Ågren Johan
Published: July 2022

Background

To reduce risk for intermittent hypoxia a high fraction of inspired oxygen is routinely used during anesthesia induction. This differs from the cautious dosing of oxygen during neonatal resuscitation and intensive care and may result in significant hyperoxia.

Aim

In a randomized controlled trial, we evaluated oxygenation during general anesthesia with a low (23%) vs a high (80% during induction and recovery, and 40% during maintenance) fraction of inspired oxygen, in newborn infants undergoing surgery.

Method

Thirty‐five newborn infants with postconceptional age of 35–44 weeks were included (17 infants in low and 18 in high oxygen group). Oxygenation was monitored by transcutaneous partial pressure of oxygen, pulse oximetry, and cerebral oxygenation. Predefined SpO2 safety targets dictated when to increase inspired oxygen.

Results

At start of anesthesia, oxygenation was similar in both groups. Throughout anesthesia, the high oxygen group displayed significant hyperoxia with higher (difference−20.3 kPa, 95% confidence interval (CI)—28.4 to 12.2, p < .001) transcutaneous partial pressure of oxygen values than the low oxygen group. While SpO2 in the low oxygen group was lower (difference − 5.8%, 95% CI –9.3 to –2.4, p < .001) during anesthesia, none of the infants spent enough time below SpO2 safety targets to mandate supplemental oxygen, and cerebral oxygenation was within the normal range and not statistically different between the groups. Analysis of the oxidative stress biomarker urinary F2‐Isoprostane revealed no differences between the low and high oxygen group.

Conclusion

We conclude that in healthy newborn infants, use of low oxygen during general anesthesia was feasible, while the prevailing practice of using high levels of inspired oxygen resulted in significant hyperoxia. The trade‐off between careful dosing of oxygen and risks of hypo‐ and hyperoxia in neonatal anesthesia should be further examined.
Defoliation, wounding, and methyl jasmonate induce expression of the sucrose lateral transporter LpSUT1 in ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.)
Authors: Meuriot Frédéric , Prud'homme Marie‐Pascale , Noiraud‐Romy Nathalie
Published: July 2022

Ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) regrowth after defoliation results from the mobilization of sugar reserves (mainly fructans) and, simultaneously, the efficient lateral transport of sucrose toward growing tissues. However, as for grasses overall, it is not yet known if the induction of this transport is solely linked to the sugar demand of growing tissues via the modification of sugar content at the tissue or cellular level or if it could be triggered by a wounding signal due to the defoliation itself. Ryegrass plants were therefore submitted to total or partial defoliation, pinning of the leaf blades to simulate wounding, or to leaf spraying with 100 μM methyl jasmonate (MeJA), a phytohormone related to wounding. As a response to total or partial defoliation, fructans were mobilized, and the expression of the sucrose lateral transporter LpSUT1 was induced. This highlights an efficient intra‐plant compensatory partitioning of sugar resources between defoliated and intact tillers, resulting in the adaptation to regrow after moderate to severe defoliation. The MeJA treatment strongly decreased fructan content. Pinning and especially MeJA largely and quickly increased sucrose content and LpSUT1 transcript levels in leaf sheaths and elongating leaf bases, suggesting a direct effect of wounding on the upregulation of the sucrose lateral transporter. The overall results suggest that sucrose transport capacity and fructan degradation are induced by defoliation through the modification of source–sink relationships for sugars at the plant level and are mediated by phytohormones associated with wounding, such as jasmonates.
Prolonging the time of semen deposition increases the pregnancy rates of ewes subjected to fixed time cervical insemination during the breeding season
Authors: Zhang Jing , Lu Xiaoyu , Liu Yiyong , Wu Xinglong , Yu Yuansong , Li Xiangyun
Published: July 2022

The main limiting factor of artificial cervical insemination in ewes is the long and narrow fibrous cervical canal, which impedes the transport of spermatozoa and leads to lower pregnancy rates. The hypothesis that prolonging the time of semen deposition during ovine cervical insemination can increase pregnancy rates was investigated in this study. Estrus was synchronized in 150 multiparous Ujimqin ewes using a polyurethane intravaginal sponge impregnated with 45 mg of flurogestone acetate. The sponge was left in the vagina for 12 days followed by an injection of 330 IU of eCG at sponge removal. After the exclusion of two ewes due to sponge loss, the remaining 148 ewes were divided into the Treatment group (n = 75) and the Control group (n = 73). Each ewe was inseminated once between 56 and 60 h after the removal of sponges, using a new type of insemination device containing 0.25 ml of diluted semen. Semen was collected from eight Black Suffolk rams and all the ejaculates were pooled and diluted in ultra‐high temperature‐treated commercial skimmed milk. The time of semen deposition was prolonged to 60 s in the Treatment group, while ewes were given traditional insemination in the Control group. Pregnancy status was determined by transabdominal ultrasound examination 45 days after insemination. Lambing performance was calculated after all the ewes had been delivered. Significant differences were observed between the Treatment group and the Control group in terms of the pregnancy rate and the fecundity rate (73.3% and 93.3% vs 56.2% and 71.2%, p < .05 and p < .01, respectively). In conclusion, prolonging the time of semen deposition significantly increased pregnancy and fecundity rates in estrus‐synchronized Ujimqin ewes subjected to fixed time cervical insemination.