bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi‐institutional expert update on the use of laparoscopic bile duct exploration in the management of choledocholithiasis: Lesson learned from 3950 procedures
Authors: Lopez‐Lopez Víctor , Gil‐Vazquez Pedro José , Ferreras David , Nassar Ahmad H. M. , Bansal Virinder K. , Topal Baki , Zhu Jie‐Gao , Chuang Shu‐Hung , Jorba Rosa , Bekheit Mohamed , Martinez‐Cecilia David , Parra‐Membrives Pablo , Sgourakis Georgios , Mattila Anne , Bove Aldo , Quaresima Silvia , Barreras González Javier Ernesto , Sharma Anil , Ruiz Juan Jose , Sánchez‐Bueno Francisco , Robles‐Campos Ricardo , Martinez‐Isla Alberto
Published: February 2022

Background

Recently there has been a growing interest in the laparoscopic management of common bile duct stones with gallbladder in situ (LBDE), which is favoring the expansion of this technique. Our study identified the standardization factors of LBDE and its implementation in the single‐stage management of choledocholithiasis.

Methods

A retrospective multi‐institutional study among 17 centers with proven experience in LBDE was performed. A cross‐sectional survey consisting of a semi‐structured pretested questionnaire was distributed covering the main aspects on the use of LBDE in the management of choledocholithiasis.

Results

A total of 3950 LBDEs were analyzed. The most frequent indication was jaundice (58.8%). LBDEs were performed after failed ERCP in 15.2%. The most common approach used was the transcystic (63.11%). The overall series failure rate of LBDE was 4% and the median rate for each center was 6% (IQR, 4.5‐12.5). Median operative time ranged between 60‐120 min (70.6%). Overall morbidity rate was 14.6%, with a postoperative bile leak and complications ≥3a rate of 4.5% and 2.5%, respectively. The operative time decreased with experience (P = .03) and length of hospital stay was longer in the presence of a biliary leak (P = .04). Current training of LBDE was defined as poor or very poor by 82.4%.

Conclusion

Based on this multicenter survey, LBDE is a safe and effective approach when performed by experienced teams. The generalization of LBDE will be based on developing training programs.
Microbiological evaluation of whole, sliced, and freeze‐dried black truffles (Tuber melanosporum) under vacuum packaging and refrigerator storage
Authors: Phong Win Nee , Chang Steven , Payne Alan D. , Dykes Gary A. , Coorey Ranil
Published: February 2022

Background

Black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) is usually available in a form of a whole, offcut pieces (sliced to remove defects or broken from larger truffles) or freeze‐dried (one of the preservation methods), but there is insufficient knowledge about microbial spoilage of these products. The changes in the microbiology of whole, sliced, and freeze‐dried black truffles (Tuber melanosporum) were determined in this study. All truffle samples were vacuum‐packaged and stored at 4°C for 30 days and evaluated on day 0, 4, 8, 15, and 30. The total plate count, Pseudomonas spp. count, yeast, and mold count, as well as the presence of Listeria spp., Salmonella spp., and Bacillus spp., were examined.

Results

The main finding of this study was that the total microbial count, Pseudomonas spp. count, and yeasts count associated with the freeze‐dried truffles were generally lower than that of the whole and sliced truffles. While mold, Listeria spp., and Salmonella spp. were not detected (<2.00 log CFU/g), Bacillus spp. were detected at a very low count in all sample types (<3.48 log CFU/g).

Conclusion

Overall, the results suggest the need to establish an effective decontamination treatment before packaging and storage to delay microbial spoilage.
Consensus on Triple Endoscopy Data Elements Preparatory to Development of an Aerodigestive Registry
Authors: Boesch Richard Paul , de Alarcon Alessandro , Piccione Joseph , Prager Jeremy , Rosen Rachel , Sidell Douglas R. , Wootten Christopher , Balakrishnan Karthik ,   Aerodigestive Research Collaborative
Published: February 2022

Objectives/Hypothesis

This study defines essential data elements to be recorded during an aerodigestive “triple endoscopy” to form the foundation of a standardized multicenter registry and to clearly define measurement of each consensus item.

Study Design

Modified Delphi process.

Methods

Modified Delphi consensus with six survey rounds. Twenty‐four expert pediatric otolaryngology, pulmonology, and gastroenterology aerodigestive clinicians from eight large academic pediatric aerodigestive programs formed the Delphi panel. After achieving consensus through the Delphi process, outside validation was performed at 2019 national Aerodigestive Society conference. Consensus, near‐consensus, or exclusion was obtained for each proposed data element. Concordance was then measured between expert panel conclusions and validation group conclusions.

Results

Overall response rate was 94.4%. 73/167 proposed items reached consensus in six domains (flexible bronchoscopy, bronchoalveolar lavage, microdirect laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsies, and esophageal impedance and pH probe). Measurement of all items was defined; classification/grading systems were selected for 11 items. Validation group endorsed importance of 82/167 data items; compared to expert consensus, overall, inclusion, and exclusion concordance rates were 94.5%, 98.7%, and 90.9%.

Conclusion

Triple endoscopy is a central component of aerodigestive care. This study identifies and defines data elements to be recorded for all triple endoscopy procedures. The list is of usable length, and clear definitions were created for all items, with explicit classification/grading systems selected for 11 items. Face validity was confirmed with an independent multispecialty sample of aerodigestive providers. This consensus provides the foundation for a triple endoscopy registry but also is immediately applicable to standardize clinical documentation in aerodigestive care.

Level of Evidence

5 Laryngoscope, 132:2251–2258, 2022
Reversible Controlling the Supramolecular Chirality of Side Chain Azobenzene Polymers: Chiral Induction and Modulation
Authors: Li Guangyao , Xu Mingcong , Zhang Siyu , Yang Guang , Li Wei
Published: February 2022

Chirality represents a fundamental structure in nature and the induction and reversible modulation of supramolecular chirality with feasible techniques is of great value in the design of new chiroptical smart materials. Herein, two kinds of azobenzene side‐chain polymers (without spacer: Azo‐PMA0; with 6 spacers: Azo‐PMA6) are synthesized, the length of spacer and azobenzene chromophores play a vital role in chirality transfer and modulation. The supramolecular chiral arrangement of Azo‐PMA0 (amorphous phase) can be completely controlled and reversibly modulated over multiple cycles by 450 nm circularly polarized light driven by the supramolecular interaction between azo groups of polymer chains, with an absorption dissymmetry factor (g) value of 0.0019. The chiroptical properties of Azo‐PMA6 (liquid crystal state) can also be reversibly modulated by UV light and thermal annealing treatment during trans‐cis isomerization of azo chromophore, with the g‐value changes from 0–0.038. The successful construction of reversible chiral induction and modulation based on side chain azobenzene polymers may pave the way for designing photo‐switchable functional materials.
Self‐Supporting Electrocatalyst Film Based on Self‐Assembly of Heterogeneous Bottlebrush and Polyoxometalate for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Lin Yayu , Zhu Youlong , Ma Qian , Ke Xianlan , Ma Pengwei , Liao Rongfeng , Liu Shaohong , Wu Dingcai
Published: February 2022

Developing efficient electrocatalysts to promote the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is essential for a green and sustainable future energy supply. For practical applications, it is a challenge to achieve the self‐assembly of electrocatalyst from microscopic to macroscopic scales. Herein, a facile strategy is proposed to fabricate a self‐supporting electrocatalyst film (CNT‐g‐PSSCo/PW12) for HER by electrostatic interaction‐induced self‐assembly of cobalt polystyrene sulfonate‐grafted carbon nanotube heterogeneous bottlebrush (CNT‐g‐PSSCo) and polyoxometalate (PW12). Co2+ ions of CNT‐g‐PSSCo can function as junctions for interconnecting neighboring bottlebrushes to form the 3D nanonetwork structure and enable electrostatic capture of negatively charged PW12 nanodots. Moreover, CNT backbones can provide highly conductive pathways to CNT‐g‐PSSCo/PW12. Such a self‐assembled CNT‐g‐PSSCo/PW12 displays a low overpotential of 31 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope of 25 mV dec−1, showing high efficiency toward HER. Furthermore, CNT‐g‐PSSCo/PW12 with a stable self‐supporting film morphology exhibits long‐term electrocatalytic stability over 1000 CV cycles without noticeable overpotential change in acidic media. The findings may provide a new avenue for constructing self‐assembled functional nanonetwork materials with well‐orchestrated structural hierarchy for many applications in energy, environment, catalysis, medicine, and others.
Multiregion sequencing of sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma arising from autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Lee Elizabeth , Guan Peiyong , Lim Abner Herbert , Loh Jui Wan , Tan Grace Fangmin , Loh Tracy , Ng Dave Yong Xiang , Lee Jing Yi , Goh Shane , Liu Wei , Ng Cedric Chuan‐Young , Teh Bin Tean , Chan Jason Yongsheng
Published: February 2022

Background

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is an inherited cystic kidney disease associated with a spectrum of various renal and extrarenal manifestations, including increased risk of kidney cancers. Here, we present the initial molecular description of sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma (sRCC) arising in the setting of ADPKD.

Methods

Multiregion whole‐exome sequencing and whole transcriptomic sequencing were used to examine intratumoral molecular heterogeneity among histologically‐distinct spindle (sarcomatoid), epithelioid, or biphasic compartments within the tumor and compared with the non‐malignant ADPKD component.

Results

Spindle and biphasic components harbored several overlapping driver gene mutations, but do not share any with the epithelioid component. Mutations in ATM, CTNNB1, and NF2 were present only in the biphasic and spindle components, while mutations in BID, FLT3, ARID1B, and SMARCA2 were present only in the epithelioid component. We observed dichotomous evolutionary pathways in the development of epithelioid and spindle compartments, involving early mutations in TP53 and ATM/CTNNB1/NF2 respectively. Wnt, PI3K‐mTOR, and MAPK signaling pathways, known key mechanisms involved in ADPKD development, featured prominently in the sarcomatoid component.

Conclusion

This highlights that common pro‐oncogenic signals are present between ADPKD and sRCC providing insights into their shared pathobiology.
Identification of a novel microdeletion causative of Nance‐Horan syndrome
Authors: Lopez Martinolich Mariana , Northrup Hope , Mancias Pedro , Hillman Paul , Rao Kavya , Mowrey Kate
Published: February 2022

Background

Nance‐Horan syndrome (NHS) is a rare X‐linked genetic disorder characterized by ophthalmologic and dental anomalies as well as dysmorphic facies. The clinical phenotype in males includes congenital cataracts, vision loss, microcornea, nystagmus, microphthalmia, glaucoma, screwdriver blade‐shaped incisors, supernumerary maxillary incisors, diastema, delays, intellectual disability, and dysmorphic facies. With the evolution of array‐CGH technology, a total of five kindreds with NHS have been reported in the medical literature with microdeletions encompassing the NHS gene rather than sequencing variants.

Methods

The patient is a 19‐year‐old male born to non‐consanguineous parents with a past medical history of bilateral congenital cataracts, nystagmus, poor vision, glaucoma, screwdriver blade‐shaped incisors, global developmental delay, intellectual disability, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, axial hypotonia, and bilateral foot contractures.

Results

A chromosomal microarray (CMA) was performed and revealed a 1.83‐Mb interstitial microdeletion at Xp22.2p22.13 (16,604,890–18,435,836) (GRCh37/hg19) that included NHS, CTPS2, S100G, TXLNG, RBBP7, REPS2, SCML1, RAI2, and SCML2.

Conclusion

Here, we report the second largest microdeletion causative of NHS which also encompasses the remaining four kindreds in hopes of offering a unique perspective at the clinical variability within NHS, investigate genes of interest, and expand the phenotype.
Annapolis coalition reflects on BH challenges, trends over 20 years
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2022

Amid ongoing workforce shortages and entering the third year of the pandemic, the Annapolis Coalition on the Behavioral Health Workforce continues with its observance of 20 years promoting the behavioral health workforce and commitment to improving recruitment, retention and training.
Online company working with insurers to provide digital therapy
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2022

Observing a way to provide support to help patients experiencing depression, anxiety and burnout, an online mental health provider is working with insurers, such as Cigna, to provide its members with smartphone‐based treatment and access to licensed therapists and psychiatrists. Meru Health's digital therapeutic program provides remote clinician support, cognitive behavioral therapy and evidence‐based care.
Quasi‐periodic electro‐osmotic flow of fractional viscoelastic fluids
Authors: Tian Kai , An Shujuan , Ding Zhaodong
Published: February 2022

In this work, we study the unsteady electro‐osmotic flow of fractional viscoelastic fluids in micro‐parallel channels, where the velocity slip effect on the walls is also considered. The analytical solution is obtained through solving the Cauchy momentum equation, together with the linearized Poisson–Boltzmann equation and the fractional Maxwell constitutive equation. The influences of the normalized electrokinetic width K, Deborah number De, slip length L and fractional derivative α on the velocity and volume flow rate are discussed. The results demonstrate that the dimensionless parameters L, De and K all have a promoting effect on the electro‐osmotic flow and resonance behavior of fractional Maxwell fluids. In addition, compared with the classical Maxwell fluid, the microstructure of the fractional Maxwell fluid weakens the resonance behavior.
Does preoperative physiotherapy improve outcomes in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty? A systematic review
Authors: Vasileiadis Dimitrios , Drosos Georgios , Charitoudis Georgios , Dontas Ismene , Vlamis John
Published: February 2022

Objective

To systematically review the scientific literature and to investigate the effectiveness of preoperative rehabilitation on subjective and objective outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) when compared with patients in a control group.

Data sources

A search was conducted in PubMed, PubMed Central, Embase, Cochrane Library and Physiotherapy Evidence Database databases in May 2021.

Study selection

randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were reviewed if they compared a preoperative physiotherapy exercise intervention with no intervention group for patients undergoing TKA for severe Osteoarthritis (OA). A total of 24 RCTs were included at the end of the evaluation process. By the end of the evaluation process, a total of 24 RCTs were included.

Data extraction

Two authors independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed the quality of included studies. The outcomes were knee extension, knee flexion, pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), overall Western Ontario and McMaster Universities OA Index, 6 min walking test, and Timed Up and Go test.

Results

The majority of the studies included in this systemic review demonstrated a comparable trend of long‐term postoperative improvement of knee extension strength, VAS, range of movement and functional scores, and those of quality of life between two groups. Many studies showed a significant improvement in terms of preoperative pain, length of hospital stay and functional performance shortly after the operation, but all studies failed to show a prolonged effect on knee motion or patient function between 3 and 12 months.

Conclusions

Low to moderate evidence from mostly small RCTs demonstrated that preoperative physiotherapy interventions reduce pain and improve functional performance for patients with knee OA prior shortly after the TKA.
Efficient estimation of cumulative distribution functions of multiple failure modes using advanced generalized subset simulation
Authors: Yang Zhiyong , Liu Yadong , Nie Jiayan , Li Xueyou
Published: February 2022

It is important to estimate the cumulative distribution function (CDF) of a failure mode in a geotechnical system, because failure of the mode is often characterized by some empirical and/or semi‐empirical thresholds and geotechnical engineers sometimes might be interested in the probability of failure associated with various thresholds. The geotechnical systems also generally contain multiple failure modes. This requires an efficient estimation of cumulative distribution functions (CDFs) of multiple failure modes, which poses a significant challenge in application of conventional geotechnical reliability analysis methods. To address this challenge, this study proposes an advanced generalized subset simulation‐based method (AGSS) to efficiently estimate the CDFs of multiple failure modes of the geotechnical system. The proposed method utilizes the probability weights of samples generated in each sample sub‐space to efficiently estimate the CDFs, instead of using the conditional probability formula that may yield incorrect CDFs due to the sample “jumping” properties existing in generalized subset simulation (GSS). A cantilever retaining wall example and a parallel system example are employed to demonstrate the proposed method. It is found that the proposed method can effectively estimate the CDFs of multiple failure modes with high computational efficiency.
Comparative evaluation of phenolic profile and antioxidant activity of new sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) genotypes in Turkey
Authors: Ockun Mehmet Ali , Gercek Yusuf Can , Demirsoy Husnu , Demirsoy Leyla , Macit Idris , Oz Gul Cevahir
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.), one of the most consumed fruits in the world, is rich in phenolic and especially anthocyanin content.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the phenolic properties of 11 different sweet cherry genotypes collected from Giresun, Turkey.

Methods

Total phenol, flavonoid, anthocyanin and antioxidant properties were observed spectrophotometrically in three different extraction (conventional, microwave‐assisted and ultrasound‐assisted) processes. Major phenolic, anthocyanin and antioxidant structures were visually assessed by high‐performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC). Various phenolics in its structure were determined by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS).

Results

T2 and E5 genotypes had the highest content in terms of total phenol, flavonoid, anthocyanin and antioxidant activity. In HPTLC, cherry samples contained high levels of chlorogenic acid, neochlorogenic acid, p‐coumaroylquinic acid, rutin and cyanidin‐3 rutinoside. Among the phenolics examined in the LC–MS/MS method, the major compounds in the structure of cherry were found to be chlorogenic acid, rutin and catechin. The T2 genotype had higher phenolics than the other cherry samples (chlorogenic acid 19.3 mg/100 g; catechin; 3.8 mg/100 g; rutin 33.1 mg/100 g).

Conclusion

As a result, T2 and E5 genotypes had higher phenolic and antioxidant activity compared to other genotypes and commercial cultivars. It can be said that the antioxidant contents of these genotypes are due to the high anthocyanin amount in their structures. In addition, T2 genotype contained more major phenolics than other cherries. In the next stage, it is recommended to carry out studies on the cultivation of these two varieties.
Novel cardo‐type heat‐resistant polyimides bearing 9H‐xanthene and polymer‐based nanocomposite consisting of NH2‐terminated TiO2: Synthetic strategies, extraction of methylene blue dye, and biological activities
Authors: Khaki Diyari , Namazi Hassan , Amininasab S. Mojtaba
Published: February 2022

In the present study, a series of cardo‐type novel polyimides (PI)s containing xanthene groups was synthesized. All the polymers were amorphous in nature with inherent viscosities in the range of 0.72–0.91 dl/g. Study of thermal behavior showed that PIs have excellent thermal stability with 10% weight loss at temperatures (Td10%) between 426 and 528 °C, glass transition‐related temperatures (Tg) in the range of 292–305 °C, and weight residual at 700 °C ranged from 55% to 68% under N2 atmosphere. Xanthene and fluorene presence, progressed the PIs solubility and also induced good biological activities. The in vitro anticancer activity of the 6FD‐derived PI against the A431 (epidermoid carcinoma) cells showed an IC50 value of 29.3 μM. In the next part of the work, a polymer‐based composite (PI‐B/m‐TiO2@HBP) was prepared by inscribing 20 wt% of hyperbranched polyamide‐grafted TiO2 nanoparticles into BTDA‐derived PI‐B matrix, and compared with the unfilled PI, its photoluminescence intensity and thermal stability properties were increased. The PI‐B and nanocomposite exhibited good antibacterial activity against six bacterial strains. In the following, study of methylene blue (MB) dye adsorption from aqueous solution by the obtained PIs and PI‐B/HBP@TiO2 was carried out and removal efficiency values were found above 80.62%.
Facial landmark‐guided surface matching for image‐to‐patient registration with an RGB‐D camera
Authors: Su Yixian , Sun Yu , Hosny Mohamed , Gao Wenpeng , Fu Yili
Published: February 2022

Background

Fiducial marker‐based image‐to‐patient registration is the most common way in image‐guided neurosurgery, which is labour‐intensive, time consuming, invasive and error prone.

Methods

We proposed a method of facial landmark‐guided surface matching for image‐to‐patient registration using an RGB‐D camera. Five facial landmarks are localised from preoperative magnetic resonance (MR) images using deep learning and RGB image using Adaboost with multi‐scale block local binary patterns, respectively. The registration of two facial surface point clouds derived from MR images and RGB‐D data is initialised by aligning these five landmarks and further refined by weighted iterative closest point algorithm.

Results

Phantom experiment results show the target registration error is less than 3 mm when the distance from the camera to the phantom is less than 1000 mm. The registration takes less than 10 s.

Conclusions

The proposed method is comparable to the state‐of‐the‐arts in terms of the accuracy yet more time‐saving and non‐invasive.
Sliding naturalness: cosmological selection of the weak scale
Authors: D’Agnolo Raffaele Tito , Teresi Daniele
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We present a cosmological solution to the electroweak hierarchy problem. After discussing general features of cosmological approaches to naturalness, we extend the Standard Model with two light scalars very weakly coupled to the Higgs and present the mechanism, which we recently introduced in a companion paper to explain jointly the electroweak hierarchy and the strong-CP problem. In this work we show that this solution can be decoupled from the strong-CP problem and discuss its possible implementations and phenomenology. The mechanism works with any standard inflationary sector, it does not require weak-scale inflation or a large number of e-folds, and does not introduce ambiguities related to eternal inflation. The cutoff of the theory can be as large as the Planck scale, both for the Cosmological Constant and for the Higgs sector. Reproducing the observed dark matter relic density fixes the couplings of the two new scalars to the Standard Model, offering a target to future axion or fifth force searches. Depending on the specific interaction of the scalars with the Standard Model, the mechanism either yields rich phenomenology at colliders or provides a novel joint solution to the strong-CP problem. We highlight what predictions are common to most realizations of cosmological selection of the weak scale and will allow to test this general framework in the near future.
Constraining conformal theories in large dimensions
Authors: Gadde Abhijit , Sharma Trakshu
Published: February 2022

Abstract

In this paper, we analyze the constraints imposed by unitarity and crossing symmetry on conformal theories in large dimensions. In particular, we show that in a unitary conformal theory in large dimension D, the four-point function of identical scalar operators ϕ with scaling dimension ∆ϕ such that ∆ϕ/D < 3/4, is necessarily that of the generalized free field theory. This result follows only from crossing symmetry and unitarity. In particular, we do not impose the existence of a conserved spin two operator (stress tensor). We also present an argument to extend the applicability of this result to a larger range of conformal dimensions, namely to ∆ϕ/D < 1. This extension requires some reasonable assumptions about the spectrum of light operators. Together, these results suggest that if there is a non-trivial conformal theory in large dimensions, not necessarily having a stress tensor, then its relevant operators must be exponentially weakly coupled with the rest.
Off-shell supersymmetric continuous spin gauge theory
Authors: Najafizadeh Mojtaba
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We construct, for the first time, an off-shell supersymmetric continuous spin gauge theory in 4-dimensional Minkowski spacetime, in both constrained and unconstrained Lagrangian formulations. As an extension to the on-shell description [1], we employ an auxiliary field to close the algebra of supersymmetry transformations off-shell. The 4d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 massless continuous spin supermultiplet is then denoted by (Φ, H; Ψ), comprised of a dynamical and a non-dynamical complex scalar continuous spin gauge fields Φ and H, as well as a Dirac continuous spin gauge field Ψ. In particular, we demonstrate that the off-shell continuous spin supermultiplet, in a limit, reproduces off-shell supersymmetry transformations of the known scalar supermultiplet (0, 1/2), all integer-spin supermultiplets (s, s + 1/2), s ≥ 1, and all half-integer spin supermultiplets (s − 1/2, s), s ≥ 1.
Phosphorus plant removal from European agricultural land
Authors: Panagos Panos , Muntwyler Anna , Liakos Leonidas , Borrelli Pasquale , Biavetti Irene , Bogonos Mariia , Lugato Emanuele
Published: February 2022

Phosphorus (P) is an important nutrient for all plant growth and it has become a critical and often imbalanced element in modern agriculture. A proper crop fertilization is crucial for production, farmer profits, and also for ensuring sustainable agriculture. The European Commission has published the Farm to Fork (F2F) Strategy in May 2020, in which the reduction of the use of fertilizers by at least 20% is among one of the main objectives. Therefore, it is important to look for the optimal use of P in order to reduce its pollution effects but also ensure future agricultural production and food security. It is essential to estimate the P budget with the best available data at the highest possible spatial resolution. In this study, we focused on estimating the P removal from soils by crop harvest and removal of crop residues. Specifically, we attempted to estimate the P removal by taking into account the production area and productivity rates of 37 crops for 220 regions in the European Union (EU) and the UK. To estimate the P removal by crops, we included the P concentrations in plant tissues (%), the crop humidity rates, the crop residues production, and the removal rates of the crop residues. The total P removal was about 2.55 million tonnes (Mt) (± 0.23 Mt), with crop harvesting having the larger contribution (ca. 94%) compared to the crop residues removal. A Monte-Carlo analysis estimated a ± 9% uncertainty. In addition, we performed a projection of P removal from agricultural fields in 2030. By providing this picture, we aim to improve the current P balances in the EU and explore the feasibility of F2F objectives.
The wide and growing range of lamin B-related diseases: from laminopathies to cancer
Authors: Evangelisti Camilla , Rusciano Isabella , Mongiorgi Sara , Ramazzotti Giulia , Lattanzi Giovanna , Manzoli Lucia , Cocco Lucio , Ratti Stefano
Published: February 2022

B-type lamins are fundamental components of the nuclear lamina, a complex structure that acts as a scaffold for organization and function of the nucleus. Lamin B1 and B2, the most represented isoforms, are encoded by LMNB1 and LMNB2 gene, respectively. All B-type lamins are synthesized as precursors and undergo sequential post-translational modifications to generate the mature protein. B-type lamins are involved in a wide range of nuclear functions, including DNA replication and repair, regulation of chromatin and nuclear stiffness. Moreover, lamins B1 and B2 regulate several cellular processes, such as tissue development, cell cycle, cellular proliferation, senescence, and DNA damage response. During embryogenesis, B-type lamins are essential for organogenesis, in particular for brain development. As expected from the numerous and pivotal functions of B-type lamins, mutations in their genes or fluctuations in their expression levels are critical for the onset of several diseases. Indeed, a growing range of human disorders have been linked to lamin B1 or B2, increasing the complexity of the group of diseases collectively known as laminopathies. This review highlights the recent findings on the biological role of B-type lamins under physiological or pathological conditions, with a particular emphasis on brain disorders and cancer.

Graphical abstract
Maternal employment effects of paid parental leave
Authors: Bergemann Annette , Riphahn Regina T.
Published: February 2022

We study the short-, medium-, and long-run employment effects of a substantial change in Germany’s parental leave benefit program. In 2007, a means-tested parental leave transfer program that paid benefits for up to 2 years was replaced with an earnings-related transfer that paid benefits for up to 1 year. The reform changed the regulation for prior benefit recipients and added benefits for those who were not eligible before. Although long-run labor force participation did not change substantially—the reform sped up mothers’ labor market return after their benefits expired. Likely pathways for this substantial reform effect are changes in social norms and in mothers’ preferences for economic independence.
Inhibitory effects on L- and N-type calcium channels by a novel CaVβ1 variant identified in a patient with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Despang Patrick , Salamon Sarah , Breitenkamp Alexandra , Kuzmenkina Elza , Matthes Jan
Published: February 2022

Voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) subunits have been genetically associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The properties of the pore-forming VGCC subunit are modulated by auxiliary β-subunits, which exist in four isoforms (CaVβ1-4). Our previous findings suggested that activation of L-type VGCCs is a common feature of CaVβ2 subunit mutations found in ASD patients. In the current study, we functionally characterized a novel CaVβ1b variant (p.R296C) identified in an ASD patient. We used whole-cell and single-channel patch clamp to study the effect of CaVβ1b_R296C on the function of L- and N-type VGCCs. Furthermore, we used co-immunoprecipitation followed by Western blot to evaluate the interaction of the CaVβ1b-subunits with the RGK-protein Gem. Our data obtained at both, whole-cell and single-channel levels, show that compared to a wild-type CaVβ1b, the CaVβ1b_R296C variant inhibits L- and N-type VGCCs. Interaction with and modulation by the RGK-protein Gem seems to be intact. Our findings indicate functional effects of the CaVβ1b_R296C variant differing from that attributed to CaVβ2 variants found in ASD patients. Further studies have to detail the effects on different VGCC subtypes and on VGCC expression.
PTT-quant: a new method for direct identification and absolute quantification of premature transcription termination events, following the example of bacterial riboswitches
Authors: Machtel Piotr , Wasilewska-Burczyk Anna , Zacharjasz Julian , Grzywacz Kamilla
Published: February 2022

Regulation of gene expression by premature termination of transcription has been well described in all domains of life, including metazoans, yeast, plants, and bacteria. Although methods for identification of such regulatory events by sequencing are available, the focused biochemical studies of the mechanism are hampered by lack of highly sensitive and accurate experimental methods. Here, we propose a new method for absolute quantification of premature transcription termination events, PTT-quant. It is based on highly sensitive two-step digital droplet PCR protocol, coupled with normalized cDNA synthesis attained by site-specific pre-cleavage of investigated transcripts with RNase H. As a consequence, our method enables the reliable and sensitive quantification of both, prematurely terminated and full-length transcripts. By application of our method to investigation of transcriptional riboswitches in Bacillus subtilis, we were able to precisely measure the dynamics of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) riboswitch induction, which turned to be ~ 23% higher in comparison the results obtained without cDNA synthesis normalization.

Key points

• A novel method for quantification of premature transcription termination events was established.

• PTT-quant measures absolute concentration of full-length and terminated transcripts.

• RNase H and the digital droplet PCR technique is used in PTT-quant.
Effects of seawater temperature and seasonal irradiance on growth, reproduction, and survival of the endemic Antarctic brown alga Desmarestia menziesii (Phaeophyceae)
Authors: Matula Carolina Verónica , Quartino María Liliana , Nuñez Jesús Darío , Zacher Katharina , Bartsch Inka
Published: February 2022

Endemic Antarctic macroalgae are especially adapted to live in extreme Antarctic conditions. Their potential biogeographic distribution niche is primarily controlled by the photoperiodic regime and seawater temperatures, since these parameters regulate growth, reproduction, and survival during the entire life cycle. Here we analyzed the upper survival temperature (UST) of juvenile sporophytes and the temperature range for sporophyte formation from gametophytes of Desmarestia menziesii, one of the dominant endemic Antarctic brown algal species. This process is a missing link to better evaluate the full biogeographical niche of this species. Two laboratory experiments were conducted. First, growth and maximum quantum yield of juvenile sporophytes were analyzed under a temperature gradient (0, 5, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 °C) in a 16:8 h light:dark (LD) regime (Antarctic spring condition) for 2 weeks. Second, the formation of sporophytes from gametophytes (as a proxy of gametophyte reproduction) was evaluated during a 7 weeks period under a temperature gradient (0, 4, 8, 12, and 16 °C), and two different photoperiods: 6:18 h LD regime simulating winter conditions and a light regime simulating the Antarctic shift from winter to spring by gradually increasing the light period from 7.5:16.5 h LD (late winter) to 18.5:5.5 h LD (late spring). Sporophytes of D. menziesii were able to grow and survive up to 14 °C for 2 weeks without visible signs of morphological damage. Thus, this species shows the highest UST of all endemic Antarctic Desmarestiales species. In turn, gametophyte reproduction solely took place at 0 °C but not at 4–8 °C. The number of emerging sporophytes was six times higher under the light regime simulating the transition from winter to spring than under constant short day winter conditions. There was a negative relationship between the number of sporophytes formed and the gametophyte density at the beginning of the experiment, which provides evidence that gametophyte density exerts some control upon reproduction in D. menziesii. Results strongly indicate that although sporophytes and gametophytes may survive in warmer temperatures, the northernmost distribution limit of D. menziesii in South Georgia Islands is set by the low temperature requirements for gametophyte reproduction. Hence, global warming could have an impact on the distribution of this and other Antarctic species, by influencing their growth and reproduction.
The changing trends of image-guided biopsy of small renal masses before intervention—an analysis of European multinational prospective EuRECA registry
Authors: Chan Vinson Wai-Shun , Keeley Francis Xavier , Lagerveld Brunolf , Breen David J. , King Alexander , Nielsen Tommy Kjærgaard , van Strijen Marco , Garnon Julien , Alcorn Des , Graumann Ole , de Kerviler Eric , Zondervan Patricia , Walkden Miles , Lughezzani Giovanni , Wah Tze Min
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the use of pre-cryoablation biopsy for small renal masses (SRMs) and the effects of increasing uptake on histological results of treated SRMs.

Methods

From 2015 to 2019, patients with sporadic T1N0M0 SRMs undergoing percutaneous, laparoscopic, or open cryoablation from 14 European institutions within the European Registry for Renal Cryoablation (EuRECA) were included for the retrospective analysis. Univariate and multivariate logistic models were used to evaluate the trends, histological results, and the factors influencing use of pre-cryoablation biopsy.

Results

In total, 871 patients (median (IQR) age, 69 (14), 298 women) undergoing cryoablation were evaluated. The use of pre-cryoablation biopsy has significantly increased from 42% (65/156) in 2015 to 72% (88/122) in 2019 (p < 0.001). Patients treated for a benign histology are significantly more likely to have presented later in the trend, where pre-cryoablation biopsy is more prevalent (OR: 0.64, 95% CI 0.51–0.81, p < 0.001). Patients treated for undiagnosed histology are also significantly less likely to have presented in 2018 compared to 2016 (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.10–0.97, p = 0.044). Patients aged 70+ are less likely to be biopsies pre-cryoablation (p < 0.05). R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry score of 10+ and a Charlson Comorbidity Index > 1 are factors associated with lower likelihood to not have received a pre-cryoablation biopsy (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

An increased use of pre-cryoablation biopsy was observed and cryoablation patients treated with a benign histology are more likely to have presented in periods where pre-cryoablation biopsy is not as prevalent. Comparative studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions on the effect of pre-cryoablation biopsy on SRM treatments.

Key Points

• The use of biopsy pre-ablation session has increased significantly from 42% of all patients in 2015 to 74% in 2019.

• Patients are less likely to be treated for a benign tumour if they presented later in the trend, where pre-cryoablation biopsy is more prevalent, compared to later in the trend (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.51–0.81, p < 0.001).

• Patients with comorbidities or a complex tumour (R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry score > 10) are less likely to not undergo biopsy as a separate session to cryoablation.
Mouse genomic and cellular annotations
Authors: Long Helen , Reeves Richard , Simon Michelle M.
Published: February 2022

Mice have emerged as one of the most popular and valuable model organisms in the research of human biology. This is due to their genetic and physiological similarity to humans, short generation times, availability of genetically homologous inbred strains, and relatively easy laboratory maintenance. Therefore, following the release of the initial human reference genome, the generation of the mouse reference genome was prioritised and represented an important scientific resource for the mouse genetics community. In 2002, the Mouse Genome Sequencing Consortium published an initial draft of the mouse reference genome which contained ~ 96% of the euchromatic genome of female C57BL/6 J mice. Almost two decades on from the publication of the initial draft, sequencing efforts have continued to increase the completeness and accuracy of the C57BL/6 J reference genome alongside advances in genome annotation. Additionally new sequencing technologies have provided a wealth of data that has added to the repertoire of annotations associated with traditional genomic annotations. Including but not limited to advances in regulatory elements, the 3D genome and individual cellular states. In this review we focus on the reference genome C57BL/6 J and summarise the different aspects of genomic and cellular annotations, as well as their relevance to mouse genetic research. We denote a genomic annotation as a functional unit of the genome. Cellular annotations are annotations of cell type or state, defined by the transcriptomic expression profile of a cell. Due to the wide-ranging number and diversity of annotations describing the mouse genome, we focus on gene, repeat and regulatory element annotation as well as two relatively new technologies; 3D genome architecture and single-cell sequencing outlining their utility in genetic research and their current challenges.
Cross-calibration of a combined electrostatic and time-of-flight analyzer for energy- and charge-state-resolved spectrometry of tin laser-produced plasma
Authors: Poirier L. , Bayerle A. , Lassise A. , Torretti F. , Schupp R. , Behnke L. , Mostafa Y. , Ubachs W. , Versolato O. O. , Hoekstra R.
Published: February 2022

We present the results of the calibration of a channeltron-based electrostatic analyzer operating in time-of-flight mode (ESA-ToF) using tin ions resulting from laser-produced plasma, over a wide range of charge states and energies. Specifically, the channeltron electron multiplier detection efficiency and the spectrometer resolution are calibrated, and count rate effects are characterized. With the obtained overall response function, the ESA-ToF is shown to accurately reproduce charge-integrated measurements separately and simultaneously obtained from a Faraday cup (FC), up to a constant factor the finding of which enables absolute cross-calibration of the ESA-ToF using the FC as an absolute benchmark. Absolute charge-state-resolved ion energy distributions are obtained from ns-pulse Nd:YAG-laser-produced microdroplet tin plasmas in a setting relevant for state-of-the-art extreme ultraviolet nanolithography.
Comparison of endoscopic and microscopic tympanoplasty in patients with chronic otitis media
Authors: Yang Qimei , Wang Bing , Zhang Jin , Liu Hui , Xu Min , Zhang Wen
Published: February 2022

Background

To compare the results between type I tympanoplasty performed with transcanal endoscopic ear surgery (TEES) and microscopic ear surgery (MES) for treatment of chronic otitis media in a homogenous group of patients.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed in our department between January 2011 and January 2016 to review primary type I tympanoplasty cases with a subtotal perforation, an intact ossicular chain, a dry ear for at least 1 month, normal middle ear mucosa, and a follow-up period of at least 6 months post surgery. The adoption of TEES or MES was divided temporally (before and since 2013). TEES was undertaken in 224 patients (224 ears) and MES in 121 patients (121 ears).

Results

The successful graft take rate was 94.64% (212/224) in the TEES group and 90.91% (110/121) in the MES group (P = 0.239). The improvements in the air conduction levels between the 2 groups were not statistically different at 1, 3, or 6 (> 6) months (P > 0.05) after surgery. The improvements in the air–bone gaps were not significantly different between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). The average hearing gains in the TEES group 6 (and > 6) months post surgery were 11.85 ± 5.47 dB, which was better than 10.48 ± 5.18 dB in the MES group (P = 0.031). The use of medical resources was lower in the TEES group than in the MES group regarding the average operating time (49.22 ± 8.24 min vs 81.22 ± 14.73 min, respectively; P < 0.0001). Patients receiving MES had a significant higher incidence of the wound problems (ear pain, numbness around the ears, and wet ear; P < 0.05).

Conclusion

TEES for type I tympanoplasty seems to achieve a shorter operative time and ideal tympanic membrane healing rate and hearing results in patients with chronic otitis media.
Evaluating an automated machine learning model that predicts visual acuity outcomes in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Abbas Abdallah , O’Byrne Ciara , Fu Dun Jack , Moraes Gabriella , Balaskas Konstantinos , Struyven Robbert , Beqiri Sara , Wagner Siegfried K. , Korot Edward , Keane Pearse A.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is a major global cause of blindness. Whilst anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment is effective, response varies considerably between individuals. Thus, patients face substantial uncertainty regarding their future ability to perform daily tasks. In this study, we evaluate the performance of an automated machine learning (AutoML) model which predicts visual acuity (VA) outcomes in patients receiving treatment for nAMD, in comparison to a manually coded model built using the same dataset. Furthermore, we evaluate model performance across ethnic groups and analyse how the models reach their predictions.

Methods

Binary classification models were trained to predict whether patients’ VA would be ‘Above’ or ‘Below’ a score of 70 one year after initiating treatment, measured using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) chart. The AutoML model was built using the Google Cloud Platform, whilst the bespoke model was trained using an XGBoost framework. Models were compared and analysed using the What-if Tool (WIT), a novel model-agnostic interpretability tool.

Results

Our study included 1631 eyes from patients attending Moorfields Eye Hospital. The AutoML model (area under the curve [AUC], 0.849) achieved a highly similar performance to the XGBoost model (AUC, 0.847). Using the WIT, we found that the models over-predicted negative outcomes in Asian patients and performed worse in those with an ethnic category of Other. Baseline VA, age and ethnicity were the most important determinants of model predictions. Partial dependence plot analysis revealed a sigmoidal relationship between baseline VA and the probability of an outcome of ‘Above’.

Conclusion

We have described and validated an AutoML-WIT pipeline which enables clinicians with minimal coding skills to match the performance of a state-of-the-art algorithm and obtain explainable predictions.