bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of airway epithelium in viral respiratory infections: Can carbocysteine prevent or mitigate them?
Authors: Pace Elisabetta , Di Vincenzo Serena , Ferraro Maria , Lanata Luigi , Scaglione Francesco
Published: February 2024

Alterations in airway epithelial homeostasis increase viral respiratory infections risk. Viral infections frequently are associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations, events that dramatically promote disease progression. Mechanism promoting the main respiratory viruses entry and virus‐evocated innate and adaptive immune responses have now been elucidated, and an oxidative stress central role in these pathogenic processes has been recognized. Presence of reactive oxygen species in macrophages and other cells allows them to eliminate virus, but its excess alters the balance between innate and adaptive immune responses and proteases/anti‐proteases and leads to uncontrolled inflammation, tissue damage, and hypercoagulability. Different upper and lower airway cell types also play a role in viral entry and infection. Carbocysteine is a muco‐active drug with anti‐oxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties used for the management of several chronic respiratory diseases. Although the use of anti‐oxidants has been proposed as an effective strategy in COPD exacerbations management, the molecular mechanisms that explain carbocysteine efficacy have not yet been fully clarified. The present review describes the most relevant features of the common respiratory virus pathophysiology with a focus on epithelial cells and oxidative stress role and reports data supporting a putative role of carbocysteine in viral respiratory infections.
Optimising wound care for patients with cirrhosis: A study of the effect of combination therapy on wound healing
Authors: Lin Xuehong , Su Jinman , Yang Zhijuan
Published: February 2024

Cirrhosis, a chronic liver disease, significantly impairs wound healing due to complex alterations in physiology, including compromised immune function, poor nutritional status and altered blood flow. This prospective observational cohort study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the multidimensional combination therapy approach in enhancing wound healing among patients diagnosed with cirrhosis. The study was conducted from February to November 2023 in Shanghai, China, including 248 patients with cirrhosis experiencing poor wound healing. The combination therapy consisted of tailored pharmacological treatments, advanced wound dressings, dietitian‐directed dietary regimens and supplementary therapies like negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), stem cell and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The interventions were customised based on comprehensive initial assessments of liver function, nutritional status and wound characteristics. Follow‐ups were conducted to monitor response and adjust treatments accordingly. The patient demographic was varied, predominantly 41–60 years old, with the slight male predominance. The study demonstrated that after 3 months of treatment, wound sizes decreased significantly across all cirrhosis severity levels: mild (2.4–1.7 cm2), moderate (4.1–2.6 cm2) and severe (6.2–4.4 cm2). Healing rates improved to 90% in mild, 75% in moderate and 45% in severe cases over 6 months. Albumin levels increased by the average of +0.3 g/dL to +0.4 g/dL post‐treatment across the severity spectrum. However, complication rates escalated with severity: Mild cases had a 10% infection rate, while severe cases had up to 30% infection rate. Combination therapy significantly improved wound healing in cirrhosis patients, with the extent of improvement correlated with the severity of the condition. Tailored, multidisciplinary approaches are critical in managing the intricate wound healing process in cirrhosis, effectively reducing healing times and improving overall treatment outcomes. These findings advocate for personalised care strategies and highlight the potential of integrating various treatment modalities to address the complex needs of this population.
Mothers of transgender youth experience stigma‐by‐association
Authors: Moss‐Racusin Corinne A. , Van der Toorn Jojanneke , Beneke Grace , Olson Kristina R.
Published: February 2024

The current research investigated whether mothers of transgender youth experience stigma‐by‐association. Mturk participants (N = 489) were randomly assigned to read a vignette about a family in which the social identity (transgender, gay/lesbian, cisgender/heterosexual control) and gender (girl, boy) of a child was manipulated, while all other information was held constant. Results revealed stigma targeting mothers as a function of children's social identity (but not gender), such that mothers of transgender girls and boys were viewed substantially more negatively than identical mothers of cisgender/heterosexual youth. Moreover, this stigma was particularly robust among politically conservative participants. In contrast, mothers of gay/lesbian youth did not encounter systematic stigma, though they were sometimes perceived more negatively than mothers of cisgender/heterosexual youth. Results provide novel experimental evidence of stigma‐by‐association targeting mothers of transgender youth and raise serious concerns about the treatment of parents who seek to affirm their transgender children.
Machine learning identifies esophageal luminal temperature patterns associated with thermal injury in catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Chahine Yaacoub , Afroze Tanzina , Bifulco Savannah F. , Tekmenzhi Demyan V. , Jafarvand Mahbod , Boyle Patrick M. , Akoum Nazem
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Luminal esophageal temperature (LET) monitoring during atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation is widely used to reduce the incidence of endoscopically detected esophageal lesion (EDEL). We sought to assess whether specific patterns of LET variation are associated with EDEL.

Methods

A high‐fidelity multisensor probe was used to record LET in AF patients undergoing radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or cryoballoon ablation (CBA). Explainable machine learning and SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis were used to predict EDEL and assess feature importance.

Results

A total of 94 patients (38.3% persistent AF, 71.3% male, 72 RFA, and 22 CBA) were included. EDEL was detected in 11 patients (10 RFA and one CBA). In the RFA group, the highest LET recorded was similar between patients with and without EDEL (40.6 [40.1–41]°C vs. 40.2 [39.1–40.9]°C; p = .313), however, the rate of LET rise for the highest recorded peak was higher (0.08 [0.03–0.12]°C/s vs. 0.02 [0.01–0.05]°C/s; p = .033), and the area under the curve (AUC) for the highest peak was smaller (412.5 [206.8–634.1] vs. 588.6 [380.4–861.1]; p = .047) in patients who had EDEL. In case of CBA, the patient with EDEL had a faster LET decline (0.12 vs. 0.07 [0.02–0.14]°C/s), and a smaller AUC for the lowest trough (2491.3 vs. 2629.3 [1712.6–5283.2]). SHAP analysis revealed that a rate of LET change higher than 0.05°C/s and an AUC less than 600 were more predictive of EDEL in RFA.

Conclusion

The rate of LET change and AUC for the recorded temperature predicted EDEL, whereas absolute peak temperatures did not.
Flapless early implant placement into the uncalcified provisional matrix—Does it lead to osseointegration of the implant? A preclinical study
Authors: Park Jin‐Young , Kwon Yoon‐Hee , Song Young Woo , Cha Jae‐Kook , Jung Ui‐Won , Jung Ronald E. , Thoma Daniel S.
Published: February 2024

Aim

To test whether early implant placement into the extraction socket containing an uncalcified provisional matrix leads to successful osseointegration and stable marginal bone levels.

Materials and Methods

In six mongrel dogs, the mandibular molars were extracted. Three weeks later, early implant placement was performed according to three experimental protocols: (i) flapless implant placement with preservation of the provisional matrix; (ii) flap elevation, socket debridement and implant placement; and (iii) flap elevation, socket debridement, implant placement and guided bone regeneration (GBR). One untreated extraction socket served as a control group. Data analyses were based on histologic slides 3 months after implant placement.

Results

There were no differences in bone‐to‐implant contact between the three experimental groups (66.97%, 58.89% and 60.89%, respectively) (inter‐group comparison p = .42). Marginal bone levels, first bone‐to‐implant contact as well as the thickness of the connective tissue did not reveal any significant differences between the groups (p = .85, .60 and .65, respectively).

Conclusions

Flapless early implant placement into posterior extraction sockets was as effective as an open flap approach in conjunction with GBR. Mineralization of the socket seems to occur irrespective of the presence of dental implants or biomaterials.
Sleepless nights, sour moods: daily sleep‐irritability links in a pediatric clinical sample
Authors: Meigs Jennifer M. , Kiderman Miryam , Kircanski Katharina , Cardinale Elise M. , Pine Daniel S. , Leibenluft Ellen , Brotman Melissa A. , Naim Reut
Published: February 2024

Background

Sleep, or a lack thereof, is strongly related to mood dysregulation. Although considerable research uses symptom scales to examine this relation, few studies use longitudinal, real‐time methods focused on pediatric irritability. This study leveraged an ecological momentary assessment (EMA) protocol, assessing bidirectional associations between momentary irritability symptoms and daily sleep duration in a transdiagnostic pediatric sample enriched for irritability.

Methods

A total of N = 125 youth (Mage = 12.58 years, SD = 2.56 years; 74% male; 68.8% White) completed digital, in vivo surveys three times a day for 7 days. For a subset of youth, their parents also completed the EMA protocol. Trait irritability was measured using youth‐, parent‐, and clinician‐report to test its potential moderating effect on the association between sleep duration and momentary irritability.

Results

Results from multilevel modeling dynamically linked sleep to irritability. Specifically, according to youth‐ and parent‐report, decreased sleep duration was associated with increased morning irritability (bs ≤ −.09, ps < .049). A bidirectional association between parent‐reported nightly sleep duration and anger was found—increased evening anger related to decreased nightly sleep duration, and decreased sleep duration related to increased morning anger (bs ≤ −.17, ps < .019). Trait irritability moderated this association, which was stronger for more irritable youth (b = −.03, p < .027).

Conclusions

This study adds to the literature and suggests sleep‐irritability dynamics as a potential treatment target.
Hepatitis C virus infection in patients undergoing surgery in a single tertiary academic center
Authors: Lee Jae Seung , Lee Hye Won , Kim Mi Na , Kim Beom Kyung , Park Jun Yong , Kim Do Young , Ahn Sang Hoon , Kim Seung Up
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim

Lack of awareness disturbs proper care for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in patients undergoing surgery. We investigated the status of HCV screening, confirmation, and treatment in patients who underwent surgery.

Methods

Patients who underwent surgery at a tertiary academic center between 2019 and 2021 were eligible for this retrospective study.

Results

Between 2019 and 2021, 96 894 patients (40 121 males; 41.4%) who underwent surgery under general anesthesia were recruited. The median age of the participants was 55.0 years. Of the 83 920 (86.6%) patients who tested positive for anti‐HCV antibodies, 576 (0.7%) showed positive results, with a higher proportion of patients with diabetes mellitus (32.6% vs 18.5%), hypertension (50.5% vs 28.6%), liver cirrhosis (13.2% vs 1.7%), and unfavorable laboratory test results when compared with those with negative results (all P < 0.05). HCV RNA was tested in 215 patients (37.3%), with a positivity rate of 20.5% (n = 44). Of the 44 patients, 42 (95.5%) were referred for antiviral treatment, and 29 (69.0%) were successfully treated with direct‐acting antiviral therapy. HCV RNA confirmation rates were higher in the Department of Hepatobiliary and Transplant Surgery (76.6%) than in the other surgical departments (25.0–33.5%) (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The proportion of patients who were positive for anti‐HCV antibodies and failed to receive proper management after surgery was not negligible. Increased awareness of HCV infection among surgeons through appropriate education may be required.
Housing, Distribution, and Welfare
Authors: KIYOTAKI NOBUHIRO , MICHAELIDES ALEXANDER , NIKOLOV KALIN
Published: February 2024

Housing is a long‐lived asset whose value is sensitive to variations in expectations of long‐run growth rates and interest rates. When a large fraction of households has leverage, housing price fluctuations cause large‐scale redistribution and consumption volatility. We find that a practical way to insure the young and the poor from the housing market fluctuations is through a well‐functioning rental market. In practice, homeownership subsidies keep the rental market small and the housing cycle affects aggregate consumption. Removing homeownership subsidies hurts old homeowners, while leverage limits hurt young homeowners.
Assessing family relations in borderline personality disorder: A relational approach
Authors: Roca Mariona , Vilaregut Anna , Pretel‐Luque Teresa , Calvo Natàlia , Frías Álvaro , Ferrer Marc
Published: February 2024

The aims of the current study are to describe the basic family relationships, parental bonding patterns, and dyadic adjustment of families with offspring diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and to explore the correlations between these variables related to family relations and BPD symptomatology. The sample consisted of 194 participants, including parents from the control (N = 76) and clinical group (N = 76), and patients with BPD (N = 42). All progenitors completed a measure of family relations, parental bonding, and dyadic adjustment. Patients completed a measure of parental bonding and borderline symptomatology. The results showed significant differences between both groups in marital and parental functioning, marital satisfaction, dyadic adjustment, and care. Correlations among family variables and BPD symptomatology were also found. In summary, findings underscore the significance of comprehending the complexity of family relationships in BPD while advocating for a relational perspective when examining the family dynamics.
Dilutional rheology of Radiesse: Implications for regeneration and vascular safety
Authors: McCarthy Alec D. , Soares Danny J. , Chandawarkar Akash , El‐Banna Radia , Hagedorn Nadine
Published: February 2024

Background

Calcium hydroxylapatite‐carboxymethylcellulose (CaHA‐CMC) injectables have emerged as dual‐purpose fillers with bioregenerative and direct filling capabilities.

Aims

This study investigates the rheological properties of CaHA‐CMC and its CMC carrier gel at various dilutions.

Methods

The storage modulus (G′), loss modulus (G″), complex viscosity (η*), loss factor (tan δ), cohesivity, and extrusion force were evaluated for a range of CaHA‐CMC aqueous dilutions with an oscillatory rheometer, drop weight testing, and force analysis, respectively.

Results

Results revealed a significant decrease in G′, η*, and increase in tan(δ) with increasing dilution, indicating a decline in the product's direct filling capabilities. Cohesivity decreased dramatically with dilution, potentially enhancing tissue biointegration and the product's biostimulatory effects. The CMC gel carrier displayed inelastic and non‐resilient properties, with rheological changes differing from CaHA‐CMC. Dilutional rheology was also correlated with previously published dilution‐dependent biostimulatory data where hyperdiluted CaHA‐CMC (>1:2) demonstrated a regenerative profile and diluted or hypodiluted mixtures retained meaningful filling properties and increased regeneration.

Conclusions

These findings offer a continuum for tailoring the product's rheological profile to match specific tissue requirements. Customizable rheology allows CaHA‐CMC to be tuned for either filling and contouring or optimal regenerative effects. Importantly, safety implications related to vascular occlusion suggest that dilutional rheomodulation decreases the risk of vascular events. In conclusion, this study highlights the significant impact of aqueous dilution on the rheological properties of CaHA‐CMC and its carrier gel. The findings support the clinical application of tailored dilutions to achieve desired outcomes, providing versatility and safety for aesthetic applications.
The Equilibrium Size and Value‐Added of Venture Capital
Authors: SANNINO FRANCESCO
Published: February 2024

I model positive sorting of entrepreneurs across the high and low value‐added segments of the venture capital market. Aiming to attract high‐quality entrepreneurs, inefficiently many venture capitalists (VCs) commit to provide high value‐added by forming small portfolios. This draws the marginal entrepreneur away from the low value‐added segment, reducing match quality in the high value‐added segment too. There is underinvestment. Multiple equilibria may emerge, and they differ in aggregate investment. The model rationalizes evidence on VC returns and value‐added along fundraising “waves” and when the cost of entrepreneurship falls, and generates untested predictions on the size and value‐added of venture capital.
Ultrasonography use for tongue cancer management: A scoping review
Authors: Pires Duarte Luiz Cláudio , Teixeira Karlayle , Dias Barbara Magalhães Figueiredo , Fonseca Felipe Paiva , Travassos Denise Vieira , Smit Chané , Castro Maurício Augusto Aquino de , Sampaio Aline Araujo
Published: February 2024

Background

Tongue cancer is associated with debilitating diseases and poor prognostic outcomes. The use of imaging techniques like ultrasonography to assist in the clinical management of affected patients is desirable, but its reliability remains debatable. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the importance of ultrasound use for the clinicopathological management of tongue cancer.

Methods

A scoping review was carried out using specific search strategies in the following electronic databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Collected data included bibliographical information, study design, ultrasound equipment, the aim of the ultrasonography use, the timing of ultrasound use during oncological treatment (pre‐, trans‐, and/or post‐operatively), and the advantages and disadvantages of the use of the ultrasound.

Results

A total of 47 studies were included in this review after following the selection process. The majority of the studies investigated the use of ultrasound pre‐operatively for the investigation of lymph node metastases or to determine the tumor thickness and depth of invasion. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of ultrasound to determine clinical lymph node metastases ranged from 47% to 87.2%, from 84.3% to 95.8%, and from 70% to 86.2%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity to determine the microscopic depth of invasion were 92.3% and from 70.6% to 82.1%, respectively.

Conclusion

Ultrasonography seems to be a reliable imaging technique for the investigation of important prognostic parameters for tongue cancer, including depth of invasion and lymph node metastases.
Insights into the clinical presentation, diagnostics and outcome in dogs presenting with neurological signs secondary to infection with Neospora caninum: 41 cases (2014‐2023)
Authors: Fisher C. , Seferidis N. , Zilli J. , Roberts T. , Harcourt‐Brown T.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To describe the clinical signs and outcome of a large cohort of dogs presenting with neurological signs secondary to Neospora caninum infection.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective review of cases presenting to two UK referral centres with neurological signs secondary to N. caninum infection between 2014 and 2023. Presenting signs, diagnostic test results, treatment, short‐ and long‐term outcome analysed.

Results

A total of 1690 cases were assessed for eligibility. Forty‐four cases with a diagnosis of neosporosis were obtained. Three cases were then excluded due to non‐neurological presentations (two hepatitis and one myocarditis). A total of 41 cases were included in the study. Cerebello‐vestibular signs predominated; however, presenting clinical signs were varied and the neurolocalisation was often multifocal in nature (46.3%), making neosporosis an important differential diagnosis for meningoencephalitis of unknown origin. Complete clinical improvement was rare (5.6%), and relapses were common (27.8% cases with follow‐up).

Clinical Significance

Neosporosis remains an important differential diagnosis for dogs at any age presenting with multifocal neurological signs. The outcome is considered poor and relapse rate is high.
Sraffian indeterminacy of steady‐state equilibria in the Walrasian general equilibrium framework
Authors: Yoshihara Naoki , Kwak Se Ho
Published: February 2024

In contrast to Mandler's generic determinacy of steady‐state equilibria, we first show that any non‐trivial steady‐state equilibrium is indeterminate under a general overlapping generation (OLG) economy with a fixed Leontief technique. We also check that this indeterminacy is generic. These results are obtained by explicitly introducing a general model of every generation's utility function and individual optimization program to the OLG economy, which also verifies that Mandler's claim on generic determinacy is invalid. We also argue the distinctiveness of our results in comparison with the standard literature of OLG indeterminacy.
Fine‐scale distribution of the lungworm Halocercus delphini in the lungs of the striped dolphin, Stenella coeruleoalba: implications about migration pathways and functional significance
Authors: Pool Rachel V. , Pons‐García Neus , Consoli Francesco , Rivero Miguel , Bombardi Cristiano , Raga Juan A. , Aznar Francisco J.
Published: February 2024

Despite their high pathogenicity, limited knowledge is available on intrahost migration pathways and microhabitat distribution of pseudaliid lungworms. In this study, the distribution of Halocercus delphini in the lungs of the striped dolphin, Stenella coeruleoalba, was analyzed on three scales: between the right and left lungs, within the lungs, and between worm clusters. Evidence of a relationship between the distribution of H. delphini and the perfusion of the lungs of S. coeruleoalba is provided by the consistent correlation of these two factors, both on a longitudinal scale and by the difference in parasite burden between the left and right lung. This relationship, when coupled with the nested pattern of colonization, suggests that this species, like many other metastrongyloids, migrates to the lungs via the circulatory system. Additionally, the concentration of lungworms around the major airways could be a further reflection of the well‐perfused nature of these passageways. Equally, this distribution could be a strategy to minimize the distance that larvae must travel to exit the lungs via the trachea, as do most other metastrongyloids. On a more localized scale, the tendency of H. delphini to form distinct heterosexual clusters even at low infection intensities indicates active mate‐seeking behavior for reproduction.
Can humidifier reservoir bacteria colonize the circuit during mechanical ventilation: An in vitro study
Authors: Jia Yong‐Gang , Li Tian‐Ran , Lau Ricky Wing Tong , Lian Su‐Bing , Zhou Jin‐Yang , Liu Jie‐Ling , Pan Xia‐Zhen
Published: February 2024

Background

Although the circuit condensate, an ideal bacterial reservoir during mechanical ventilation, may flow into the humidifier reservoir, no studies have investigated if humidifier reservoir colonized bacteria colonize other circuit locations with airflow.

Aim

We aimed to prove whether the humidifier reservoir colonized bacteria colonize other circuit locations with airflow and provide some advice on the disposal of condensate in the clinical setting.

Study Design

An in vitro experiment was conducted. Mechanical ventilation simulators (n = 90) were divided into sterile water group (n = 30) and broth group (n = 60). In the sterile water group, sterile water was used for humidification, either Acinetobacter baumannii or Pseudomonas aeruginosa were inoculated to humidifier water in the humidifier reservoir, each accounted for 50% of the simulators. The broth group was performed the same as the sterile water group except for the addition of broth into the humidified water. After 24, 72, and 168 h of continuous ventilation, the humidifier water and different locations of the circuits were sampled for bacterial culture.

Results

All bacterial culture results of the sterile water group were negative. Bacteria in the humidifier water continued to proliferate in the broth group. With prolonged ventilation, the bacteria at the humidifier reservoir outlet increased. The bacteria at the humidifier reservoir outlet were much more in the Pseudomonas aeruginosa subgroup than in the Acinetobacter baumannii subgroup and the difference was statistically significant (p < .05). During continuous ventilation, no bacterial growth occurred at 10 cm from the humidifier reservoir outlet and the Y‐piece of the ventilator circuits.

Conclusions

Sterile water in the humidifier reservoir was not conducive to bacterial growth. Even if bacteria grew in the humidifier reservoir and could reach the humidifier reservoir outlet, colonization of further circuit locations with the airflow was unlikely. During a certain mechanical ventilation time, the amount of bacteria reaching the outlet of the humidifier reservoir varied due to different mobility of bacteria.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

In a clinical setting, nurses should not worry about a small amount of condensate backflow into the humidifier reservoir. Draining condensate into the humidifier reservoir can be used as a low risk and convenient method in clinical practice.
Should carbohydrate‐modified diets be the first option for weight loss in people with impaired glucose metabolism? A scoping review
Authors: Ellison Katie M. , Wyatt Holly R. , Hill James O. , Sayer R. Drew
Published: February 2024

While the “precision nutrition” movement is at an early stage of development, several investigations have compared low‐fat versus carbohydrate (CHO)‐modified diets (i.e., low‐or‐reduced‐CHO, low glycemic index/load diets, and high‐fiber) in people with normal versus impaired glucose metabolism. The purpose of this scoping review was to summarize evidence in support of the hypothesis that CHO‐modified diets are more effective for weight loss among people with impaired glucose metabolism. Fifteen articles were included in this review: seven retrospective analyses of randomized clinical trials and eight prospective randomized clinical trials with prespecified hypotheses related to a diet (low‐fat vs. CHO‐modified) × phenotype (normal vs. impaired) interaction. Evidence in support of the hypothesis was identified in six of seven retrospective and three of eight prospective studies, which led to a recommendation of CHO‐modified diets as a first‐line option for people with impaired glucose metabolism. However, the evidence in support of this recommendation is relatively weak, and dietary prescriptions should consider additional contextual information that may influence overall dietary adherence. Additional and rigorous research using innovative randomized experimental approaches is needed for stronger dietary weight loss recommendations based on pretreatment glycemic status.
MORF9‐dependent specific plastid RNA editing inhibits root growth under sugar starvation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Xie Yakun , Yu Jinfa , Tian Faan , Li Xue , Chen Xinyan , Li Yanyun , Wu Binghua , Miao Ying
Published: February 2024

Multiple organellar RNA editing factor (MORF) complex was shown to be highly associated with C‐to‐U RNA editing of vascular plant editosome. However, mechanisms by which MORF9‐dependent plastid RNA editing controls plant development and responses to environmental alteration remain obscure. In this study, we found that loss of MORF9 function impaired PSII efficiency, NDH activity, and carbohydrate production, rapidly promoted nuclear gene expression including sucrose transporter and sugar/energy responsive genes, and attenuated root growth under sugar starvation conditions. Sugar repletion increased MORF9 and MORF2 expression in wild‐type seedlings and reduced RNA editing of matK‐706, accD‐794, ndhD‐383 and ndhF‐290 in the morf9 mutant. RNA editing efficiency of ndhD‐383 and ndhF‐290 sites was diminished in the gin2/morf9 double mutants, and that of matK‐706, accD‐794, ndhD‐383 and ndhF‐290 sites were significantly diminished in the snrk1/morf9 double mutants. In contrast, overexpressing HXK1 or SnRK1 promoted RNA editing rate of matK‐706, accD‐794, ndhD‐383 and ndhF‐290 in leaves of morf9 mutants, suggesting that HXK1 partially impacts MORF9 mediated ndhD‐383 and ndhF‐290 editing, while SnRK1 may only affect MORF9‐mediated ndhF‐290 site editing. Collectively, these findings suggest that sugar and/or its intermediary metabolites impair MORF9‐dependent plastid RNA editing resulting in derangements of plant root development.
Generation of aroma in three‐line hybrid rice through CRISPR/Cas9 editing of BETAINE ALDEHYDE DEHYDROGENASE2 (OsBADH2)
Authors: Liao Yongxiang , Li Mengyuan , Wu Hezhou , Liao Yingxiu , Xin Jialu , Yuan Xinmiao , Li Yong , Wei Aiji , Zou Xuemei , Guo Daiming , Xue Zhenzhen , Zhu Guoxu , Wang Zhaoning , Xu Peizhou , Zhang Hongyu , Chen Xiaoqiong , Du Kangxi , Zhou Hao , Xia Duo , Ali Asif , Wu Xianjun
Published: February 2024

Aroma or fragrance in rice is a genetically controlled trait; Its high appreciation by consumers increases the rice market price. Previous studies have revealed that the rice aroma is controlled by a specific gene called BETAINE ALDEHYDE DEHYDROGENASE (OsBADH2), and mutation of this gene leads to the accumulation of an aromatic substance 2‐acetyl‐1‐pyrroline (2‐AP). The use of genetic engineering to produce aroma in commercial and cultivated hybrids is a contemporary need for molecular breeding. The current study reports the generation of aroma in the three‐line hybrid restorer line Shu‐Hui‐313 (SH313). We created knock‐out (KO) lines of OsBADH2 through the CRISPR/Cas9. The analysis of KO lines revealed a significantly increased content of 2AP in the grains compared with the control. However, other phenotypic traits (plant height, seed setting rate, and 1000‐grain weight) were significantly decreased. These KO lines were crossed with a non‐aromatic three‐line hybrid rice male sterile line (Rong‐7‐A) to produce Rong‐7‐You‐626 (R7Y626), R7Y627 and R7Y628. The measurement of 2‐AP revealed significantly increased contents in these cross combinations. We compared the content of 2‐AP in tissues at the booting stage. Data revealed that young spike stalk base contained the highest content of 2‐AP and can be used for identification (by simple chewing) of aromatic lines under field conditions. In conclusion, our dataset offers a genetic source and illustrates the generation of aroma in non‐aromatic hybrids, and outlines a straightforward identification under field conditions.
Low bleeding rates following transbronchial lung cryobiopsy in unclassifiable interstitial lung disease
Authors: Taverner John , Lucena Carmen M. , Garner Justin L. , Orton Christopher M. , Nicholson Andrew G. , Desai Sujal R. , Wells Athol U. , Shah Pallav L.
Published: February 2024

Background and Objective

Bronchoscopic transbronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC) is a guideline‐endorsed alternative to surgical lung biopsy for tissue diagnosis in unclassifiable interstitial lung disease (ILD). The reported incidence of post‐procedural bleeding has varied widely. We aimed to characterize the incidence, severity and risk factors for clinically significant bleeding following TBLC using an expert‐consensus airway bleeding scale, in addition to other complications and diagnostic yield.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of consecutive adult outpatients with unclassifiable ILD who underwent TBLC following multidisciplinary discussion at a single centre in the UK between July 2016 and December 2021. TBLC was performed under general anaesthesia with fluoroscopic guidance and a prophylactic endobronchial balloon.

Results

One hundred twenty‐six patients underwent TBLC (68.3% male; mean age 62.7 years; FVC 86.2%; DLCO 54.5%). Significant bleeding requiring balloon blocker reinflation for >20 min, admission to ICU, packed red blood cell transfusion, bronchial artery embolization, resuscitation or procedural abandonment, occurred in 10 cases (7.9%). Significant bleeding was associated with traction bronchiectasis on HRCT (OR 7.1, CI 1.1–59.1, p = 0.042), a TBLC histological pattern of UIP (OR 4.0, CI 1.1–14, p = 0.046) and the presence of medium‐large vessels on histology (OR 37.3, CI 6.5–212, p < 0.001). BMI ≥30 (p = 0.017) and traction bronchiectasis on HRCT (p = 0.025) were significant multivariate predictors of longer total bleeding time (p = 0.017). Pneumothorax occurred in nine cases (7.1%) and the 30‐day mortality was 0%. Diagnostic yield was 80.6%.

Conclusion

TBLC has an acceptable safety profile in experienced hands. Radiological traction bronchiectasis and obesity increase the risk of significant bleeding following TBLC.
Country characteristics and trade policy during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Hoekman Bernard , Santi Filippo , Shingal Anirudh
Published: February 2024

Government policy responses to the COVID‐19 pandemic often included changes to trade policies. This article uses detailed data on trade policy measures targeting medical products during the first 18 months of the pandemic (January 2020–June 2021) compiled by the Global Trade Alert to analyze the relationship between national trade policy activism and pre‐pandemic trade patterns, import protection and international integration. The focus is on both potential country‐specific drivers of unilateral trade policies and the duration of implemented measures. We find significant heterogeneity in the relationships between trade policy actions and country characteristics. The likelihood of import liberalization was more prevalent among net exporters of medical products, whereas net importers were more inclined to impose export restrictions. The results suggest trade policy responses to the challenges raised by the COVID‐19 pandemic are only partially explained by extant theory.
Meeting empowerment: How styles of discursive frames vary across participatory settings
Authors: Stiman Meaghan
Published: February 2024

Over the past few decades, there has been a resurgence of public participation in participatory settings. Such participatory processes are often long and arduous, and sometimes involve seemingly endless meetings of deliberation between various stakeholders and citizens before a policy decision or plan of action is made. While there is much known about the social forces that constrain how people deliberate in meetings, there is more to know about the discursive frames that actors use to deliberate and legitimize in these settings. To explore this, I draw on an analysis of a debate in a small coastal town surrounding a dam removal across two municipally sponsored spheres: listening sessions and select board meetings. I found that people debated the same issue differently across different contexts using different discursive frames, and the frames developed in the listening sessions were not transferable to select board meetings, the site where a policy decision was imminent. To explain this, I analyze how a meeting's empowerment in a given participatory process influences which styles of discursive frames actors use and are valued during deliberation. Understanding this provides a piece to the larger puzzle of what constrains and enables deliberative discourse in the 21st century.
Identity development in the digital context
Authors: Soh Serena , Talaifar Sanaz , Harari Gabriella M.
Published: February 2024

Digital media is ubiquitous in adolescence and young adulthood. These are key developmental periods when people explore who they are and who they want to become. However, researchers have yet to fully understand digital media's role in shaping identity and its development. We build on prior work conceptualizing identity development as a contextually embedded process to describe how identity influences and is influenced by one's digital context. We propose a systematic framework for investigating the relationships between identity and digital environments (i.e., mediums and platforms, which vary according to their content and affordances) through four mechanisms: selection (i.e., choosing or avoiding digital environments), manipulation (i.e., intentionally altering or changing digital environments), evocation (i.e., unintentionally eliciting responses from digital environments), and application (i.e., integrating or applying experiences from digital environments). To conclude, we outline future directions for research that may clarify how identity development unfolds in the digital context.
The novel HLA‐B*13:01:23 allele, identified by Sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Du Huan , Xie Zhi‐Cong , Ma Li , Li Yu‐Xia , Ma Fu‐Tian
Published: February 2024

HLA‐B*13:01:23 differs from HLA‐B*13:01:01:01 by one nucleotide in exon 5.
Diversity of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and natural killer cell receptor (NKR) genes and their interactions in domestic horses
Authors: Bubenikova Jana , Plasil Martin , Futas Jan , Stejskalova Karla , Klumplerova Marie , Oppelt Jan , Suchentrunk Franz , Burger Pamela A. , Horin Petr
Published: February 2024

The immunogenome is the part of the genome that underlies immune mechanisms and evolves under various selective pressures. Two complex regions of the immunogenome, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and natural killer cell receptor (NKR) genes, play an important role in the response to selective pressures of pathogens. Their importance is expressed by their genetic polymorphism at the molecular level, and their diversity associated with different types of diseases at the population level. Findings of associations between specific combinations of MHC/NKR haplotypes with different diseases in model species suggest that these gene complexes did not evolve independently. No such associations have been described in horses so far. The aim of the study was to detect associations between MHC and NKR gene/microsatellite haplotypes in three horse breed groups (Camargue, African, and Romanian) by statistical methods; chi‐square test, Fisher's exact test, Pearson's goodness‐of‐fit test and logistic regression. Associations were detected for both MHC/NKR genes and microsatellites; the most significant associations were found between the most variable KLRA3 gene and the EQCA‐1 or EQCA‐2 genes. This finding supports the assumption that the KLRA3 is an important receptor for MHC I and that interactions of these molecules play important roles in the horse immunity and reproduction. Despite some limitations of the study such as low numbers of horses or lack of knowledge of the selected genes functions, the results were consistent across different statistical methods and remained significant even after overconservative Bonferroni corrections. We therefore consider them biologically plausible.
The novel HLA‐B*40:555 allele identified by Sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Hong Li‐Li , Wang Yong‐Jun , Xie Zhi‐cong , Xue Han‐chun , Zhuang Hai‐Feng
Published: February 2024

HLA‐B*40:555 differs from HLA‐B*40:01:02:01 by one nucleotide in exon 3.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐B*14:121 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Cargou Marine , Elsermans Vincent , Top Isabelle , Tenchon Océane , Visentin Jonathan
Published: February 2024

HLA‐B*14:121 differs from HLA‐B*14:01:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 319 in exon 6.
Analyzing urban crash incidents: An advanced endogenous approach using spatiotemporal weights matrix
Authors: Mohammadi Reza , Taleai Mohammad , Otto Philipp , Sester Monika
Published: February 2024

Contemporary spatial statistics studies often underestimate the complexity of road networks, thereby inhibiting the strategic development of effective interventions for car accidents. In response to this limitation, the primary objective of this study is to enhance the spatiotemporal analysis of urban crash data. We introduce an innovative spatial‐temporal weight matrix (STWM) for this purpose. The STWM integrates external covariates, including road network topological measurements and economic variables, offering a more comprehensive view of the spatiotemporal dependence of road accidents. To evaluate the functionality of the presented STWM, random effect eigenvector spatial filtering analysis is employed on Boston's traffic accident data from January to March 2016. The STWM improves analysis, surpassing distance‐based SWM with a lower residual standard error of 0.209 and a higher adjusted R2 of 0.417. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the influence of road length on crash incidents, spatially and temporally, with random standard errors of 0.002 for spatial effects and 0.026 for non‐spatial effects. This is particularly evident in the north and center of the study area during specific periods. This information can help decision‐makers develop more effective urban development models and reduce future crash risks.
A deep pedestrian trajectory generator for complex indoor environments
Authors: He Zhenxuan , Zhang Tong , Wang Wangshu , Li Jing
Published: February 2024

Pedestrian trajectory data, which can be used to mine pedestrian motion patterns or to model pedestrian dynamics, is crucial for indoor location‐based service studies and applications. However, researchers are faced with the challenges of data shortage and privacy restrictions when using pedestrian trajectory data. We present an Indoor Pedestrian Trajectory Generator (IPTG), which is a novel deep learning model to synthesize pedestrian trajectory data. IPTG first produces feature sequences that encode the spatial–temporal and semantic features of the walking process and then interpolates them into complete trajectories using A* and perturbation algorithms. IPTG has specially designed loss functions that preserve topological constraints and semantic characteristics. Incorporating the prior knowledge of environment constraints and pedestrian walking patterns, the IPTG model is capable of generating topologically and logically sound indoor pedestrian trajectories. We evaluated the synthesized trajectories based on multiple metrics and examined the generated trajectories qualitatively. The results show that IPTG outperforms several baselines, demonstrating its ability to generate semantically meaningful and spatiotemporally coherent trajectories.
Feline high‐grade and large granular lymphocyte alimentary lymphomas treated with COP‐ or CHOP‐based chemotherapy: A multi‐centric retrospective study of 57 cases
Authors: Bernardo Marques Grégoire , Ponce Frédérique , Beaudu‐Lange Claire , Béguin Jérémy , Boissy Laurie , Chavalle Thomas , Denoeux Pauline , Diop Nicolas , Ferro Livia , Floch Franck , Lajoinie Mathilde , Sayag David , Barrett Laura E. , Chamel Gabriel
Published: February 2024

Specific data regarding outcome of cats with high‐grade and large granular lymphocyte alimentary lymphoma (HGAL and LGL, respectively) treated with multi‐agent chemotherapy are scarce. The aims of this multi‐centric, retrospective study were to describe the outcome of cats with HGAL and LGL treated with COP‐ or CHOP‐based chemotherapy and to identify potential prognostic factors. Cats with a cytological or histological diagnosis of HGAL or LGL lymphoma treated with COP‐ or CHOP‐based protocol as first‐line chemotherapy were included. Data regarding diagnosis, staging, treatment and follow‐up were collected. Fifty‐seven cats treated with CHOP (n = 37) or COP (n = 20) protocols were included. Complete response (CR), partial response (PR), stable disease (SD) and progressive disease (PD) were observed in 20%, 22%, 36% and 22% of cats, respectively, for an overall response rate of 42%. Median progression‐free interval (PFI) was 148 days and overall median survival time (OST) was 131 days. Cats achieving CR, PR or SD showed significantly longer PFI (p < .01) and OST (p < .015) compared with cats with PD. Other positive prognostic factors in multi‐variate analysis were rescue treatment (p < .001) and absence of lymph node involvement (p < .03). Negative prognostic factors were diffuse infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract (p = .035) and infiltration of a non‐haematopoietic organ (p < .01).
Oxygen rise in the tropical upper ocean during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum
Authors: Moretti Simone , Auderset Alexandra , Deutsch Curtis , Schmitz Ronja , Gerber Lukas , Thomas Ellen , Luciani Valeria , Petrizzo Maria Rose , Schiebel Ralf , Tripati Aradhna , Sexton Philip , Norris Richard , D’Onofrio Roberta , Zachos James , Sigman Daniel M. , Haug Gerald H. , Martínez-García Alfredo
Published: February 2024

The global ocean’s oxygen inventory is declining in response to global warming, but the future of the low-oxygen tropics is uncertain. We report new evidence for tropical oxygenation during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM), a warming event that serves as a geologic analog to anthropogenic warming. Foraminifera-bound nitrogen isotopes indicate that the tropical North Pacific oxygen-deficient zone contracted during the PETM. A concomitant increase in foraminifera size implies that oxygen availability rose in the shallow subsurface throughout the tropical North Pacific. These changes are consistent with ocean model simulations of warming, in which a decline in biological productivity allows tropical subsurface oxygen to rise even as global ocean oxygen declines. The tropical oxygen increase may have helped avoid a mass extinction during the PETM.
The end of the auk
The Last of Its Kind: The Search for the Great Auk and the Discovery of Extinction
Gísli Pálsson
Princeton University Press, 2024. 328 pp.
Authors: Barrow Mark V.
Published: February 2024

An anthropologist recounts how a pair of 19th-century naturalists traced an elusive bird’s extinction in real time
Design national framework climate laws to enable low-carbon resilient transformation
Authors: Dubash Navroz K.
Published: February 2024

Climate change, as noted by the recently released
technical report of the “stocktake”
under the United Nations negotiation process, is an “all of economy, all of society” problem. To induce change consistent with the scale and scope of this challenge, countries are increasingly creating “framework laws” on climate change.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
reports that by 2020, 56 countries had passed laws with the objective of limiting greenhouse gases, covering 53% of emissions.
A river in flux
Authors: Grossman Daniel
Published: February 2024

Extreme flooding and droughts may be the new norm for the Amazon, challenging its people and ecosystems