bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence for general size‐by‐habitat rules in actinopterygian fishes across nine scales of observation
Authors: Clarke John T.
Published: June 2021

Identifying environmental predictors of phenotype is fundamentally important to many ecological questions, from revealing broadscale ecological processes to predicting extinction risk. However, establishing robust environment—phenotype relationships is challenging, as powerful case studies require diverse clades which repeatedly undergo environmental transitions at multiple taxonomic scales. Actinopterygian fishes, with 32,000+ species, fulfil these criteria for the fundamental habitat divisions in water. With four datasets of body size (ranging 10,905–27,226 species), I reveal highly consistent size‐by‐habitat‐use patterns across nine scales of observation. Taxa in marine, marine‐brackish, euryhaline and freshwater‐brackish habitats possess larger mean sizes than freshwater relatives, and the largest mean sizes consistently emerge within marine‐brackish and euryhaline taxa. These findings align with the predictions of seven mechanisms thought to drive larger size by promoting additional trophic levels. However, mismatches between size and trophic‐level patterns highlight a role for additional mechanisms, and support for viable candidates is examined in 3439 comparisons.
The evolutionary ecology of fatty‐acid variation: Implications for consumer adaptation and diversification
Authors: Twining Cornelia W. , Bernhardt Joey R. , Derry Alison M. , Hudson Cameron M. , Ishikawa Asano , Kabeya Naoki , Kainz Martin J. , Kitano Jun , Kowarik Carmen , Ladd Sarah Nemiah , Leal Miguel C. , Scharnweber Kristin , Shipley Jeremy R. , Matthews Blake
Published: June 2021

The nutritional diversity of resources can affect the adaptive evolution of consumer metabolism and consumer diversification. The omega‐3 long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n‐3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n‐3) have a high potential to affect consumer fitness, through their widespread effects on reproduction, growth and survival. However, few studies consider the evolution of fatty acid metabolism within an ecological context. In this review, we first document the extensive diversity in both primary producer and consumer fatty acid distributions amongst major ecosystems, between habitats and amongst species within habitats. We highlight some of the key nutritional contrasts that can shape behavioural and/or metabolic adaptation in consumers, discussing how consumers can evolve in response to the spatial, seasonal and community‐level variation of resource quality. We propose a hierarchical trait‐based approach for studying the evolution of consumers’ metabolic networks and review the evolutionary genetic mechanisms underpinning consumer adaptation to EPA and DHA distributions. In doing so, we consider how the metabolic traits of consumers are hierarchically structured, from cell membrane function to maternal investment, and have strongly environment‐dependent expression. Finally, we conclude with an outlook on how studying the metabolic adaptation of consumers within the context of nutritional landscapes can open up new opportunities for understanding evolutionary diversification.
Symmetric response to competition in binary mixtures of cultivars associates with genetic gain in wheat yield
Authors: Cossani C. Mariano , Sadras Victor O.
Published: June 2021

The evolution in the definition of crop yield—from the ratio of seed harvested to seed sown to the contemporary measure of mass of seed per unit land area―has favoured less competitive phenotypes. Here we use binary mixtures of cultivars spanning five decades of selection for yield and agronomic adaptation to ask three questions. First, what is the degree of symmetry in the response of yield to neighbour; this is, if an older, more competitive cultivar increases yield by 10% with a less competitive neighbour in comparison to pure stands, would the newer, less competitive cultivar reduce yield by 10% when grown with older neighbour. Lack of symmetry would indicate factors other than competitive ability underly yield improvement. Second, what are the yield components underlying competitive interactions. Third, to what extent are the responses to neighbour mediated by radiation, water and nitrogen. A focus on yield components and resources can help the interpretation of shifts in the crop phenotype in response to selection for yield. The rate of genetic gain in yield over five decades was 24 kg ha−1 year−1 or 0.61% year−1. A strongly symmetrical yield response to neighbour indicates that yield improvement closely associates with a reduction in competitive ability. Response to neighbour was larger for grain number and biomass than for grain weight and allocation of biomass to grain. Under our experimental conditions, competition for radiation was dominant compared to competition of water and nitrogen. High‐yielding phenotypes had lower competitive ability for radiation but compensated with higher radiation use efficiency, a measure of canopy photosynthetic efficiency. Genetic and agronomic manipulation of the crop phenotype to reduce competitive ability could further improve wheat yield to meet the challenge of global food security.
Cellular reprogramming of diabetic foot ulcer fibroblasts triggers pro‐healing miRNA‐mediated epigenetic signature
Authors: Pastar Irena , Marjanovic Jelena , Liang Liang , Stone Rivka C. , Kashpur Olga , Jozic Ivan , Head Cheyanne R. , Smith Avi , Gerami‐Naini Behzad , Garlick Jonathan A. , Tomic‐Canic Marjana
Published: June 2021

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), a prevalent complication of diabetes, constitute a major medical challenge with a critical need for development of cell‐based therapies. We previously generated induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from dermal fibroblasts derived from the DFU patients, location‐matched skin of diabetic patients and normal healthy donors and re‐differentiated them into fibroblasts. To assess the epigenetic microRNA (miR) regulated changes triggered by cellular reprogramming, we performed miRs expression profiling. We found let‐7c, miR‐26b‐5p, −29c‐3p, −148a‐3p, −196a‐5p, −199b‐5p and −374a‐5p suppressed in iPSC‐derived fibroblasts in vitro and in 3D dermis‐like self‐assembly tissue, whereas their corresponding targets involved in cellular migration were upregulated. Moreover, targets involved in organization of extracellular matrix were induced after fibroblast reprogramming. PLAT gene, the crucial fibrinolysis factor, was upregulated in iPSC‐derived fibroblasts and was confirmed as a direct target of miR‐196a‐5p. miR‐197‐3p and miR‐331‐3p were found upregulated specifically in iPSC‐derived diabetic fibroblasts, while their targets CAV1 and CDKN3 were suppressed. CAV1, an important negative regulator of wound healing, was confirmed as a direct miR‐197‐3p target. Together, our findings demonstrate that iPSC reprogramming is an effective approach for erasing the diabetic non‐healing miR‐mediated epigenetic signature and promoting a pro‐healing cellular phenotype.
Type 2 diabetes impairs vascular responsiveness to nitric oxide, but not the venoarteriolar reflex or post‐occlusive reactive hyperaemia in forearm skin
Authors: Fujii Naoto , McGarr Gregory W. , Amano Tatsuro , Nishiyasu Takeshi , Sigal Ronald J. , Kenny Glen P.
Published: June 2021

The venoarteriolar reflex (VAR) is a local mechanism by which vasoconstriction is mediated in response to venous congestion. This response may minimize tissue overperfusion, preventing capillary damage and oedema. Post‐occlusive reactive hyperaemia (PORH) is used to assess microvascular function by performing a brief local arterial occlusion resulting in a subsequent rapid transient vasodilation. In the current study, we hypothesized that type 2 diabetes (T2D) attenuates VAR and PORH responses in forearm skin in vivo. In 11 healthy older adults (Control, 58 ± 8 years) and 13 older adults with controlled T2D (62 ± 10 years), cutaneous blood flow measured by laser‐Doppler flowmetry was monitored following a 3‐min venous occlusion of 45 mm Hg that elicited the VAR, followed by a 3‐min recovery period and then a 5‐min arterial occlusion of 240 mm Hg that induced PORH. Finally, sodium nitroprusside, a nitric oxide donor, was administered to induce maximum vasodilation. VAR and PORH variables were similar between groups. By contrast, maximal cutaneous blood flow induced by sodium nitroprusside was lower in the T2D group. Taken together, our observations indicate that T2D impairs vascular smooth muscle responsiveness to nitric oxide, but not VAR and PORH in forearm skin.
Positive but variable effects of crop diversification on biodiversity and ecosystem services
Authors: Beillouin Damien , Ben‐Ari Tamara , Malézieux Eric , Seufert Verena , Makowski David
Published: June 2021

Ecological theory suggests that biodiversity has a positive and stabilizing effect on the delivery of ecosystem services. Yet, the impacts of increasing the diversity of cultivated crop species or varieties in agroecosystems are still under scrutiny. The available empirical evidence is scattered in scope, agronomic and geographic contexts, and impacts on ecosystem services may depend on the type of diversification strategy used. To robustly assess the effects of crop diversification in agroecosystems, we compiled the results of 95 meta‐analyses integrating 5156 experiments conducted over 84 experimental years and representing more than 54,500 paired observations on 120 crop species in 85 countries. Overall, our synthesis of experimental data from across the globe shows that crop diversification enhances not only crop production (median effect +14%) but also the associated biodiversity (+24%, i.e., the biodiversity of non‐cultivated plants and animals), and several supporting and regulating ecosystem services including water quality (+51%), pest and disease control (+63%) and soil quality (+11%). However, there was substantial variability in the results for each individual ecosystem service between different diversification strategies such as agroforestry, intercropping, cover crops, crop rotation or variety mixtures. Agroforestry is particularly effective in delivering multiple ecosystem services, that is, water regulation and quality, pest and diseases regulation, associated biodiversity, long‐term soil productivity and quality. Variety mixtures, instead, provide the lowest benefits, whereas the other strategies show intermediate results. Our results highlight that while increasing the diversity of cultivated crop species or varieties in agroecosystems represents a very promising strategy for more sustainable land management, contributing to enhanced yields, enhanced biodiversity and ecosystem services, some crop diversification strategies are more effective than others in supporting key ecosystem services.
ALEXANDER VON HUMBOLDT'S CLIMATOLOGICAL WRITINGS
Authors: Strobl Michael
Published: June 2021

Humboldt is often credited with being the forerunner of modern ecology and environmentalism and the founder of modern comparative climatology – without having written a single book on climate. His contributions can be found in the 800 articles and essays that he published in scientific journals. New bibliographic and editorial research on these writings allows this article to present the forgotten climatological contributions for the first time, with the main intention of providing an overview over the extensive material. Humboldt published articles on the distribution of heat on the globe as well as about the chemistry of the subterranean atmosphere in mines. He invented the infographic concept of isothermal lines and wrote on sound propagation in the atmosphere. His mountaineering accomplishments promoted alpine climate studies. In his articles he compared the snow heights of the Andes, the Himalayas and the Alps. He wrote on the temperature of the Atlantic Ocean and the Baltic Sea, about the climate of Spain and that of Central Asia. In South America he was the first to describe the cold‐water current of the west coast (‘Humboldt current’). He also described and analysed anthropogenic climate change. These diverse contributions provide a new perspective on Humboldt's climatological research. What was the relevance of Humboldt's climatological writings in their time and what is it today?
Determining the approximate factor VIII level of patients with severe haemophilia A on emicizumab using in vivo global haemostasis assays
Authors: Kizilocak Hande , Marquez‐Casas Elizabeth , Malvar Jemily , Carmona Roxana , Young Guy
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Emicizumab is a recombinant, humanized bispecific monoclonal antibody that mimics the function of factor VIII (FVIII) which results in a significant reduction in the annualized bleeding rate in patients with haemophilia A (HA), however, the degree with which emicizumab corrects the coagulation defect remains unclear. The objective of this study was to predict the approximate FVIII level in severe haemophilia A patients with inhibitors on emicizumab using global haemostasis assays.

Materials and methods

Patients with moderate and mild HA in the non‐bleeding state and healthy controls had FVIII levels and thrombin generation assessed. Linear regression was utilized to model the FVIII levels as a function of the thrombin generation assay parameters and to make a calibration curve of FVIII levels versus peak thrombin and endogenous thrombin potential. Patients with severe haemophilia A with inhibitors on emicizumab had thrombin generation performed in the same manner and their peak thrombin and endogenous thrombin potential results were placed on the calibration curve to calculate their FVIII Equivalency of Emicizumab by Thrombin Generation (F8EmT).

Results

All patients with severe HA with inhibitors on emicizumab had F8EmT >10%, suggesting they had been converted to a mild haemophilia phenotype. The patient's weight was inversely correlated to their F8EmT.

Conclusion

The results from this study suggest that the F8EmT in patients with severe HA on emicizumab falls within the range of mild haemophilia which is consistent with the data noted in the emicizumab clinical trials and in vivo studies in animals.
Lack of protected areas and future habitat loss threaten the Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) and its main food and nesting resources
Authors: Oliveira Maxwell da R. , Szabo Judit K. , Júnior Antônio dos S. , Guedes Neiva Maria R. , Tomas Walfrido M. , Camilo André R. , Padovane Carlos R. , Peterson Andrew T. , Garcia Letícia C.
Published: June 2021

Habitat loss is a major reason for population declines and thus increases extinction risk, particularly for endemic or specialist species. Protected areas are an important biodiversity conservation strategy in the face of native vegetation conversion, but local and regional factors such as anthropogenic pressure can jeopardize their effectiveness. The Pantanal biome is one of the largest inland wetlands in the world. Currently, only 11% of the Pantanal is protected, 7% with full protection and 4% under sustainable use. However, 14% of the natural vegetation of the biome was lost between 2002 and 2014, negatively affecting its biodiversity. Here, we analyse how the availability of protected areas and habitat loss affects the conservation of the Hyacinth Macaw Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus, as well as the Acuri Palm Attalea phalerata and the Manduvi Tree Sterculia apetala, its two main resources for food and nesting, respectively. We modelled potential distributions to assess the spatio‐temporal patterns of habitat loss due to the conversion of native vegetation and to evaluate to what degree currently protected areas contribute to the conservation of these three species in the Pantanal. We found that, on average, 11.8% of the suitable habitat had been converted and that 10.6% of habitat predicted as suitable is currently protected. In addition, our results indicated important areas for the three species, which are of high priority for conservation and restoration. We also identified priorities for protection and restoration to maintain native vegetation, such as the creation of corridors. We believe that the high conversion rate and the low protection of suitable areas are related to the fact that these species are associated with areas that are rarely or never flooded. In the Pantanal, these areas are more prone to the conversion of native vegetation and are poorly protected given their higher economic value compared with areas with a high frequency of flooding. These facts, and the inadequate management of these areas, such as inappropriate fire regimens, threaten the persistence of these iconic species in the Pantanal.
Potential for misinterpretation: An everyday problem male nurses encounter in inpatient rehabilitation
Authors: Baker Mark J , Fisher Murray J , Pryor Julie
Published: June 2021

Aims

This study aims to report on the everyday concern of the ‘potential for misinterpretation’, which was the basic social problem revealed in a grounded theory study exploring male nurse practice in inpatient rehabilitation in Australia.

Background

Male nurses account for approximately 10% of nursing workforce across western countries and they practice in a range of clinical areas; however, how they practice in inpatient rehabilitation remains unexplored.

Methods

Constructivist grounded theory was used in this study and was conducted in two phases: (i) involved semi‐structured interviews with 11 male nurses from October 2013 to June 2014 and (ii) observation of practice of 12 male nurses and semi‐structured interviews with male nurses and 15 patients from February to April 2015.

Results

Nurse participants encountered the intersection of two pervasive patient ideologies about male nurses. Patients perceived nursing to be women's work and that male nurses are sexual threats. These two intersecting ideologies created a concern for male nurses working in inpatient rehabilitation and that concern was labelled 'potential for misinterpretation'.

Conclusion

Gender stereotypes impacted on the ability of male nurses to practise nursing in inpatient rehabilitation. Male nurses were mindful on a daily basis that misinterpretation could, and did, happen in inpatient rehabilitation.
A framework for applying ethics‐by‐design to decision support systems for emergency management
Authors: Nussbaumer Alexander , Pope Andrew , Neville Karen
Published: June 2021

The development and utilisation of new information and communication technologies presents opportunities and risks, which bring ethical issues to the forefront. Any attempt to minimise the potential negative consequences to individuals, organisations and society resulting from the use of these technologies is challenging. In order to address these challenges, this paper presents an ethics‐by‐design approach that has been developed and implemented in the context of Decision Supports Systems for Emergency Management. Such systems help manage large and cross‐border disasters by supporting decision makers to respond on emergencies in a reasonable way by taking follow‐up actions into account. The approach taken in this paper specifically provides means to support the ethical dimensions of these decisions. Actions taken during disasters can have ramifications that persist long after a disaster has passed. The ethics‐by‐design approach presented here not only informs the design of systems, but also considers the role and training of the decision makers in the design process. The paper builds on the literature on ethics in information systems and makes a contribution to theory by providing a framework to ensure ethical considerations are embedded into the design of systems.
“Maybe baby?” The employment risk of potential parenthood
Authors: Peterson Gloor Jamie L. , Okimoto Tyler G. , King Eden B.
Published: June 2021

Research grounded in gender role theories has shown that women face numerous employment disadvantages relative to men, with mothers often facing the greatest obstacles. We extend this literature by proposing that motherhood is not a necessary condition for women to face motherhood penalties. Instead, managers' expectations that an applicant will have a child in the near future (i.e., “maybe baby” expectations) increases their perceptions of risk associated with employing childfree, childbearing‐aged women—but not men. Investigating the intersection of gender and age, and integrating economic theories of discrimination, we conceptualize hiring as a risk assessment process, proposing that managers' risk perceptions drive more precarious employment conditions for this group of women. Results from a field study with early career employees (Study 1) and a randomized experiment with hiring managers (Study 2) support our predictions across attitudinal (e.g., desire to offer a temporary job contract; Study 2) and objective indicators (e.g., having a temporary job contract; Study 1); female applicants can also mitigate this “maybe baby” risk by signaling a lack of interest in having children or by emphasizing their commitment and work ethic (Study 2). Our findings suggest that the perceived risks of parenthood can be hazardous for child‐bearing‐aged, childfree working women who simply may become parents (vs. men and mothers; vs. childfree women who are significantly younger or older than the average age of the first childbearing in the local context).
Loss of MYSM1 inhibits the oncogenic activity of cMYC in B cell lymphoma
Authors: Lin Yun Hsiao , Wang HanChen , Fiore Amanda , Förster Michael , Tung Lin Tze , Belle Jad I , Robert Francis , Pelletier Jerry , Langlais David , Nijnik Anastasia
Published: June 2021

MYSM1 is a chromatin‐binding protein, widely investigated for its functions in haematopoiesis in human and mouse; however, its role in haematologic malignancies remains unexplored. Here, we investigate the cross‐talk between MYSM1 and oncogenic cMYC in the transcriptional regulation of genes encoding ribosomal proteins, and the implications of these mechanisms for cMYC‐driven carcinogenesis. We demonstrate that in cMYC‐driven B cell lymphoma in mouse models, MYSM1‐loss represses ribosomal protein gene expression and protein synthesis. Importantly, the loss of MYSM1 also strongly inhibits cMYC oncogenic activity and protects against B cell lymphoma onset and progression in the mouse models. This advances the understanding of the molecular and transcriptional mechanisms of lymphomagenesis, and suggests MYSM1 as a possible drug target for cMYC‐driven malignancies.
Resveratrol ameliorated endothelial injury of thoracic aorta in diabetic mice and Gly‐LDL‐induced HUVECs through inhibiting TLR4/HIF‐1α
Authors: Sha Wenjun , Liu Meizhi , Sun Dusang , Qiu Junhui , Xu Bilin , Chen Lin , Shen Tian , Chen Cheng , Wang Hongping , Zhang Cuiping , Lei Tao
Published: June 2021

To explore the effects of resveratrol on the levels of inflammatory cytokines and Toll‐like receptor‐4/ hypoxia‐inducible transcription factors‐1α (TLR4/HIF‐1α) signalling pathway in diabetes mellitus. C57BL/6 mice received intraperitoneal injection of streptozocin for constructing diabetic mice models. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with 50 µg/mL Gly‐LDL for inducing injury models. 10, 100 and 1000 mmol/L resveratrol were obtained and added into each group. Haematoxylin‐eosin (H&E) staining was used for histological evaluation. CCK8 assay was performed for determination of cell viability, and Transwell assay was implemented for detecting cell migration ability. Cell apoptosis was analysed using flow cytometry. The content of inflammatory factors including interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), vascular adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were measured by ELISA. GST pull‐down assay was employed for determining interactions between TLR4 and HIF‐1α. The protein expression of TLR4 and HIF‐1α was detected using Western blotting and immunohistochemistry, while relative mRNA expression was measured by RT‐qRCR. Resveratrol could reduce bodyweight and ameliorate endothelial injury of thoracic aorta in diabetic mice. Both in vivo and in vitro results revealed that the level of IL‐6, TNF‐α, VCAM‐1 and VEGF was significantly down‐regulated after being treated with resveratrol. Resveratrol inhibited the increase of MDA and ROS and increased the level of SOD in diabetic mice. Western blotting, IHC and RT‐qPCR results showed that the levels of TLR4 and HIF‐1α were significantly down‐regulated in resveratrol group. Overexpression of TLR4 or HIF‐1α could reverse the effect of resveratrol. GST pull‐down elucidated that there might be a close interaction between TLR4 and HIF‐1α. Resveratrol ameliorated endothelial injury of thoracic aorta in diabetic mice and Gly‐LDL‐induced HUVECs through inhibiting TLR4/HIF‐1α signalling pathway.
STAT3‐activated lncRNA XIST accelerates the inﬂammatory response and apoptosis of LPS‐induced acute lung injury
Authors: Li Jun , Xue Lei , Wu Yunfei , Yang Qiang , Liu Degang , Yu Changhui , Peng Jiangzhou
Published: June 2021

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe lung respiratory failure characterized by high morbidity and mortality. Novel findings demonstrated the critical roles of long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) in ALI. Here, we tried to investigate the roles and potential mechanism of lncRNA X‐inactive specific transcript (XIST) in ALI. Results illustrated that lncRNA XIST was up‐regulated in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced ALI mice models and pulmonary endothelial cells. Biofunctional assays unveiled that knockdown of XIST repressed the inﬂammatory response and apoptosis in LPS‐induced endothelial cells. Mechanistically, XIST acted as the miR‐146a‐5p sponge to positively regulate STAT3. Moreover, STAT3 combined the promoter region of XIST to accelerate the transcription, constituting the positive feedback loop of XIST/miR‐146a‐5p/STAT3 in ALI. Collectively, these findings suggested that XIST knockdown attenuates the LPS‐induced ALI, providing a potential therapeutic target.
Sequence dynamics of three influenza A virus strains grown in different MDCK cell lines, including those expressing different sialic acid receptors
Authors: Barnard Karen N. , Wasik Brian R. , Alford Brynn K. , Hayward Jessica J. , Weichert Wendy S. , Voorhees Ian E. H. , Holmes Edward C. , Parrish Colin R.
Published: June 2021

Viruses are often cultured in cell lines for research and vaccine development, and those often differ from the natural hosts or tissues. Cell lines can also differ in the presence of virus receptors, such as the sialic acid (Sia) receptors used by influenza A viruses (IAV), which can vary in linkage (α2,3‐ or α2,6‐linkage) and form (N‐glycolylneuraminic acid [Neu5Gc] or N‐acetylneuraminic acid [Neu5Ac]). The selective pressures resulting from passaging viruses in cell types with host‐specific variations in viral receptors are still only partially understood. IAV are commonly cultured in MDCK cells which are both derived from canine kidney tubule epithelium and inherently heterogeneous. MDCK cells naturally present Neu5Ac and α2,3‐linked Sia forms. Here, we examine natural MDCK variant lineages, as well as engineered variants that synthesize Neu5Gc and/or α2,6‐linkages. We determined how viral genetic variation occurred within human H3N2, H1N1 pandemic and canine H3N2 IAV populations when serially passaged in MDCK cell lines that vary in cell type (MDCK‐Type I or MDCK‐Type II clones) and in Sia display. Deep sequencing of viral genomes showed small numbers of consensus‐level mutations, mostly within the hemagglutinin (HA) gene. Both human IAV showed variants in the HA stem and the HA receptor‐binding site of populations passaged in cells displaying Neu5Gc. Canine H3N2 showed variants near the receptor‐binding site when passaged in cells displaying Neu5Gc or α2,6‐linkages. Viruses replicated to low titres in MDCK‐Type II cells, suggesting that not all cell types in heterogeneous MDCK cell populations are equally permissive to infection.
Establishing a reference focal plane using beads for trypan‐blue‐based viability measurements
Authors: Peskin Adele , Lund Steven P. , Pierce Laura , Kurbanov Firdavs , Chan Leo Li‐Ying , Halter Michael , Elliott John , Sarkar Sumona , Chalfoun Joe
Published: June 2021

Trypan blue dye exclusion‐based cell viability measurements are highly dependent upon image quality and consistency. In order to make measurements repeatable, one must be able to reliably capture images at a consistent focal plane, and with signal‐to‐noise ratio within appropriate limits to support proper execution of image analysis routines. Imaging chambers and imaging systems used for trypan blue analysis can be inconsistent or can drift over time, leading to a need to assure the acquisition of images prior to automated image analysis. Although cell‐based autofocus techniques can be applied, the heterogeneity and complexity of the cell samples can make it difficult to assure the effectiveness, repeatability and accuracy of the routine for each measurement. Instead of auto‐focusing on cells in our images, we add control beads to the images, and use them to repeatedly return to a reference focal plane. We use bead image features that have stable profiles across a wide range of focal values and exposure levels. We created a predictive model based on image quality features computed over reference datasets. Because the beads have little variation, we can determine the reference plane from bead image features computed over a single‐shot image and can reproducibly return to that reference plane with each sample. The achieved accuracy (over 95%) is within the limits of the actuator repeatability. We demonstrate that a small number of beads (less than 3 beads per image) is needed to achieve this accuracy. We have also developed an open‐source Graphical User Interface called Bead Benchmarking‐Focus And Intensity Tool (BB‐FAIT) to implement these methods for a semi‐automated cell viability analyser.
Cicatricial eyebrow restoration using the follicular unit extraction technique
Authors: Sabanciogullarindan Serkan , Tunc Suphan
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Cicatricial eyebrow loss that occurs after trauma or burns considerably reduces a person's self‐confidence. Several methods, either surgical or nonsurgical, have been defined to reconstruct eyebrows. This study focused on eyebrow restoration using the atraumatic follicular unit extraction (FUE) technique in patients and emphasized certain details that should be considered during the treatment process. In this study, we discussed the management of 18 cases using this technique and their outcomes with respect to published literature.

Methods

This study examined eyebrow restoration performed using a modified FUE technique in 18 patients who had cicatricial eyebrow loss due to trauma, excised congenital giant nevus, or burns. Moreover, special methods, including platelet‐rich plasma, microneedling, steroid injections, and fat grafting, were used in each patient to increase the odds of graft survival.

Results

Aesthetically and functionally satisfactory outcomes were observed along with the appropriate orientation and symmetry of the eyebrows in all patients' follow‐ups. Moreover, patients exhibited increased self‐confidence, and the quality of skin, particularly in the transplantation area, was improved. There was no complication either in the recipient or in the donor site.

Conclusion

Eyebrow restoration using the atraumatic FUE technique should be considered as the first treatment option in cases with cicatricial eyebrow loss as long as an appropriate evaluation and treatment method is followed for each patient.
Temporal lobe epilepsy with or without hippocampal sclerosis: Structural and functional connectivity using advanced MRI techniques
Authors: Lee Dong Ah , Lee Ho‐Joon , Kim Hyung Chan , Park Kang Min
Published: June 2021

Background and Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in structural connectivity based on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and functional connectivity based on arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI between temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) patients with and without hippocampal sclerosis (HS).

Methods

We enrolled 50 patients with TLE, including 25 patients with HS and 25 patients without HS, who underwent brain MRI, including DTI and ASL. We calculated the network parameters of structural connectivity based on DTI and functional connectivity based on ASL using a graph theoretical analysis. The parameters included global network measures (radius, diameter, characteristic path length, global efficiency, local efficiency, mean clustering coefficient, transitivity, assortative coefficient, and small‐worldness index) and a local network measure (betweenness centrality).

Results

The global and local network measures of structural connectivity were not different between TLE patients with and without HS. However, significant differences in functional connectivity existed between the two groups. The radius and diameter of the global network measures in the TLE patients with HS were significantly increased compared with those without HS (4.140 vs. 3.140, p = 0.045; 6.812 vs. 5.132, p = 0.049; respectively). No differences were detected between other global network measures of functional connectivity and local network measure.

Conclusions

Significant differences in global network measures of functional connectivity based on ASL existed between TLE patients with and without HS. These findings suggest that TLE patients with HS exhibit a more disconnected functional brain network than those without HS.
Positive and negative urgency as a single coherent construct: Evidence from a large‐scale network analysis in clinical and non‐clinical samples
Authors: Billieux Joël , Heeren Alexandre , Rochat Lucien , Maurage Pierre , Bayard Sophie , Bet Romain , Besche‐Richard Chrystel , Challet‐Bouju Gaëlle , Carré Arnaud , Devos Gaëtan , Flayelle Maèva , Gierski Fabien , Grall‐Bronnec Marie , Kern Laurence , Khazaal Yasser , Lançon Christophe , Lannoy Séverine , Michael George A. , Raffard Stéphane , Romo Lucia , Van der Linden Martial , Wéry Aline , Canale Natale , King Daniel L. , Schimmenti Adriano , Baggio Stéphanie
Published: June 2021

Aims

Negative and positive urgency are emotion‐related impulsivity traits that are thought to be transdiagnostic factors in psychopathology. However, it has recently been claimed that these two traits are closely related to each other and that considering them separately might have limited conceptual and methodological value. The present study aimed to examine whether positive and negative urgency constructs constitute separate impulsivity traits.

Methods

In contrast to previous studies that have used latent variable approaches, this study employed an item‐based network analysis conducted in two different samples: a large sample of non‐clinical participants (N = 18,568) and a sample of clinical participants with psychiatric disorders (N = 385).

Results

The network analysis demonstrated that items denoting both positive and negative urgency cohere as a single cluster of items termed “general urgency” in both clinical and non‐clinical samples, thereby suggesting that differentiating positive and negative urgency as separate constructs is not necessary.

Conclusion

These findings have important implications for the conceptualization and assessment of urgency and, more broadly, for future research on impulsivity, personality, and psychopathology.
The association between hospital care transition planning and timely primary care follow‐up
Authors: Mitchell Jordan , Probst Janice , Li Xiao
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To determine whether Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) Care Transitions (CTM‐3) Scores were associated with timely (14‐day) primary care provider (PCP) follow‐up visits, and to look for disparities across various types of urban and rural hospitals.

Methods

Data were obtained for 3,299 hospitals: 2,000 urban, 544 micropolitan prospective payment system (PPS), 109 micropolitan critical access hospital (CAH), 252 noncore rural PPS, and 394 noncore rural CAH. HCAPPS data were drawn from CMS Hospital Compare (2015). The dependent variable, 14‐day PCP follow‐up rate for each hospital, was drawn from the 2015 Dartmouth Atlas.

Findings

In analysis adjusting only for hospital characteristics, higher CTM‐3 scores were positively associated with PCP follow‐up; however, the relationship was no longer significant after controlling for area‐level (contextual) measures, such as percent minority population, percent unemployed, and percent uninsured. In the fully adjusted model, rates of PCP follow‐up were significantly higher for micropolitan PPS, noncore PPS, and noncore CAH hospitals than for urban hospitals.

Conclusions

In fully adjusted analysis, the lack of significance between CTM‐3 scores and PCP follow‐up suggests that community characteristics facilitate or impede timely PCP follow‐up to an extent that may overshadow in‐hospital efforts. Disparities between CAHs and rural PPS hospitals may be due to differing enrollments in quality incentive plans; future research is needed to address this issue. Compounding this issue, the strong negative relationship between percent Medicaid reimbursement (payor mix) and PCP follow‐up suggests possible disparities for safety net hospitals.
Does credentialism affect the gender wage gap? Evidence from Chile
Authors: Didier Nicolás
Published: June 2021

The expansion of higher education across the globe changed the dynamics of social inclusion and exclusion during the last century. As a result of the increase in higher‐education enrollment, societies have reduced social gaps in education and labor. Moreover, higher‐education expansion policies have led to a diversification in the quality of higher‐education institutions and workforce configurations, which has allowed for the increased participation of women in the education and labor market. Evidence on higher‐education expansion has shown only a minor decrease in gender gaps in the labor market. One explanation is the presence of credential market configuration, where degrees signal social status. This research focuses on how educational credentialism affects the gender wage gap, using the CASEN Household Survey of Chile. It aims to assess the effects of a credential on earnings, using a regression framework and data set between 2013 and 2017. The results point to a differential effect of credentials across genders, interpreted as a systematic bias toward human capital pricings, with particular effects on the gender wage gap.
Minor pilins are involved in motility and natural competence in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803
Authors: Oeser Sabrina , Wallner Thomas , Schuergers Nils , Bučinská Lenka , Sivabalasarma Shamphavi , Bähre Heike , Albers Sonja‐Verena , Wilde Annegret
Published: June 2021

Cyanobacteria synthesize type IV pili, which are known to be essential for motility, adhesion and natural competence. They consist of long flexible fibers that are primarily composed of the major pilin PilA1 in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. In addition, Synechocystis encodes less abundant pilin‐like proteins, which are known as minor pilins. In this study, we show that the minor pilin PilA5 is essential for natural transformation but is dispensable for motility and flocculation. In contrast, a set of minor pilins encoded by the pilA9‐slr2019 transcriptional unit are necessary for motility but are dispensable for natural transformation. Neither pilA5‐pilA6 nor pilA9‐slr2019 are essential for pilus assembly as mutant strains showed type IV pili on the cell surface. Three further gene products with similarity to PilX‐like minor pilins have a function in flocculation of Synechocystis. The results of our study indicate that different minor pilins facilitate distinct pilus functions. Further, our microarray analysis demonstrated that the transcription levels of the minor pilin genes change in response to surface contact. A total of 122 genes were determined to have altered transcription between planktonic and surface growth, including several plasmid genes which are involved exopolysaccharide synthesis and the formation of bloom‐like aggregates.
Genomic insights into molecular adaptation to intertidal environments in the mangrove Aegiceras corniculatum
Authors: Feng Xiao , Li Guohong , Xu Shaohua , Wu Weihong , Chen Qipian , Shao Shao , Liu Min , Wang Nan , Zhong Cairong , He Ziwen , Shi Suhua
Published: June 2021

Mangroves have colonised extreme intertidal environments characterised by high salinity, hypoxia and other abiotic stresses. Aegiceras corniculatum, a pioneer mangrove species that has evolved two specialised adaptive traits (salt secretion and crypto‐vivipary) is an attractive ecological model to investigate molecular mechanisms underlying adaptation to intertidal environments.

We assembled de novo a high‐quality reference genome of A. corniculatum and performed comparative genomic and transcriptomic analyses to investigate molecular mechanisms underlying adaptation to intertidal environments.

We provide evidence that A. corniculatum experienced a whole‐genome duplication (WGD) event c. 35 Ma. We infer that maintenance of cellular environmental homeostasis is an important adaptive process in A. corniculatum. The 14‐3‐3 and H+‐ATPase protein‐coding genes, essential for the salt homeostasis, were preferentially retained after the recent WGD event. Using comparative transcriptomics, we show that genes upregulated under high‐salt conditions are involved in salt transport and ROS scavenging. We also found that all homologues of DELAY OF GERMINATION1 (DOG1) had lost their heme‐binding ability in A. corniculatum, and that this may contribute to crypto‐vivipary.

Our study provides insight into the genomic correlates of phenotypic adaptation to intertidal environments. This could contribute not only within the genomics community, but also to the field of plant evolution.
To crush, or not to crush? Unauthorised covert administration of medication in nursing homes
Authors: Garratt Stephanie M. , Jonas Monique F. , Peri Kathryn , Kerse Ngaire
Published: June 2021

Background and Objectives

This study aimed to explore the experiences and perceptions of nursing home staff and residents of unauthorised covert administration of medication. Prior studies identify that covert medication administration (crushing medication to administer in food or drink) is common in nursing home settings. Still, few recognise that this practice may occur without consultation or clinical authorisation.

Design

An exploratory qualitative study was conducted with nursing home staff and residents as part of a more extensive mixed‐methods study on medication omissions and clinical decision‐making.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study using focus groups and semi‐structured interviews across four geographical areas in New Zealand to better understand nursing home staff and residents' experiences and perspectives on covert administration. Semi‐structured interviews took place with 11 Clinical managers/leads and one senior Registered Nurse; role specific focus groups were held with Registered Nurses (n = 6), Health Care Assistants (n = 14), and Residents (n = 12). Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Participants described covert administration as a practical option if a nursing home resident refused medication but recognised it was a deception that carried ethical and clinical risks, particularly when unauthorised. Participants felt that unauthorised covert administration stemmed from doubts about residents' competence and the competing demands staff face during medication administration. Staff, who typically relied on advice from their pharmacies around which medications were safe to crush, expressed a need for more education.

Conclusions and Implications for practice

This study provides evidence that unauthorised covert administration of medications is an ongoing practice, using New Zealand nursing homes as an example. The results emphasise that nursing home staff and residents are aware that this practice carries ethical and clinical risks and requires a certified process to legitimise its authorised form.
Herbivore‐induced and constitutive volatiles are controlled by different oxylipin‐dependent mechanisms in rice
Authors: Mujiono Kadis , Tohi Tilisa , Sobhy Islam S. , Hojo Yuko , Shinya Tomonori , Galis Ivan
Published: June 2021

Despite the importance of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for plants, control mechanisms for their basal and stress‐induced biosynthesis and release remain unclear. We sampled and characterized headspace and internal leaf volatile pools in rice (Oryza sativa), after a simulated herbivory treatment, which triggers an endogenous jasmonate burst. Certain volatiles, such as linalool, were strongly upregulated by simulated herbivory stress. In contrast, other volatiles, such as β‐caryophyllene, were constitutively emitted and fluctuated according to time of day. Transcripts of the linalool synthase gene transiently increased 1–3 h after exposure of rice to simulated herbivory, whereas transcripts of caryophyllene synthase peaked independently at dawn. Unexpectedly, although emission and accumulation patterns of rice inducible and constitutive VOCs were substantially different, both groups of volatiles were compromised in jasmonate‐deficient hebiba mutants, which lack the allene oxide cyclase (AOC) gene. This suggests that rice employs at least two distinct oxylipin‐dependent mechanisms downstream of AOC to control production of constitutive and herbivore‐induced volatiles. Levels of the JA precursor, 12‐oxo‐phytodienoic acid (OPDA), were correlated with constitutive volatile levels suggesting that OPDA or its derivatives could be involved in control of volatile emission in rice.
Performance of dual and triple fungicide premixes for managing soybean rust across years and regions in Brazil: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Barro Jhonatan P. , Alves Kaique S. , Godoy Cláudia V. , Dias Alfredo R. , Forcelini Carlos A. , Utiamada Carlos M. , de Andrade Júnior Edson R. , Juliatti Fernando C. , Grigolli Fernando J. , Feksa Heraldo R. , Campos Hercules D. , Chaves Ione C. P. V. , Araújo Júnior Ivan P. , Roy João Mauricio T. , Nunes Júnior José , Belufi Luana M. R. , Carneiro Luciana C. , Silva Luís H. C. P. , Canteri Marcelo G. , Goussain Júnior Marcio M. , Senger Marina , Meyer Maurício C. , Dias Moab D. , Müller Mônica A. , Martins Mônica C. , Debortoli Mônica P. , Tormen Nédio R. , Furlan Silvânia H. , Konageski Tiago F. , Carlin Valtemir J. , Venâncio Wilson S. , Del Ponte Emerson M.
Published: June 2021

Soybean rust in Brazil is currently controlled with several commercial fungicide premixes composed of demethylation inhibitors (EPOXiconazole, CYPRoconazole, PROThioconazole, TEBUconazole), quinone‐outside inhibitors (AZOXystrobin, TriFLoXystrobin, PYRAclostrobin, PICOxystrobin), and succinate demethylation inhibitors (BENZovindiflupyr, BIXaFen, FLUXapyroxad). Here, we summarize the performance of eight premixes evaluated in 177 cooperative trials conducted in 46 locations across 10 states from 2015 to 2020. All fungicide treatments were sprayed three times starting at R1/R2. Percentage control (, %), from back‐transforming meta‐analytic estimates of the log of the ratio, ranged from 56.2% (PICO + CYPR) to 76.8% (BIXF + TFLX + PROT). Estimates of mean yield difference (, kg/ha) between fungicide‐treated and untreated plots were greatest for BIXF + TFLX + PROT (1,080) followed by PICO + BENZ (1,010), PYRA + EPOX + FLUX (981.5), AZOX + BENZ (910), TFLX + PROT (891), PICO +TEBU (682), TFLX + CYPR (646), and PICO + CYPR (600). Significant declines in both and in as little as 4 years were detected for AZOX + BENZ (35.3%; 550 kg/ha) and PICO + BENZ (15.5%; 359.8 kg/ha). Variance in was reduced by the inclusion of baseline severity as covariate. In trials where baseline disease was ≥70%, yield was 250 kg/ha greater compared to areas with low baseline disease. Disease control and yield response were generally greater in the south‐east, where the frequency of profitable scenarios was 30% higher on average than in the north‐west. Results of this meta‐analysis are critical for supporting decisions during planning of fungicide programmes.