bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of eosinophilic esophagitis variants by clinical, histological, and molecular analyses: A cross‐sectional multi‐center study
Authors: Greuter Thomas , Straumann Alex , Fernandez‐Marrero Yuniel , Germic Nina , Hosseini Aref , Yousefi Shida , Simon Dagmar , Collins Margaret H. , Bussmann Christian , Chehade Mirna , Dellon Evan S. , Furuta Glenn T. , Gonsalves Nirmala , Hirano Ikuo , Moawad Fouad J. , Biedermann Luc , Safroneeva Ekaterina , Schoepfer Alain M. , Simon Hans‐Uwe
Published: January 2022

Objective

Physicians are increasingly confronted with patients presenting with symptoms of esophageal dysfunction resembling eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), but absence of significant esophageal eosinophilia. The purpose of this study was to characterize and classify this group of EoE variants.

Design

Patients from six EoE‐centers with symptoms of esophageal dysfunction, but peak eosinophil counts of <60/mm2 (<15/hpf) in esophageal biopsies and absence of gastro‐esophageal reflux disease (GERD) were included. Clinical, endoscopic, (immuno)‐histological, and molecular features were determined and compared with EoE, GERD, and healthy controls.

Results

We included 69 patients with EoE variants. Endoscopic abnormalities were found in 53.6%. We identified three histological subtypes: EoE‐like esophagitis (36/69, 52.2%), lymphocytic esophagitis (14/69, 20.3%), and non‐specific esophagitis (19/69, 27.5%). Immunohistochemistry revealed—in contrast to EoE—no significant increase in inflammatory cell infiltrates compared with GERD and healthy controls, except for lymphocytes in lymphocytic esophagitis. EoE‐typical Th2‐response was absent in all EoE variants. However, considerable structural changes were detected based on histology and protein expression. Using next generation mRNA sequencing, we found the three EoE variants to have distinct molecular fingerprints partially sharing pronounced traits of EoE. Hierarchical sample clustering of RNA sequencing data confirmed the presence of an EoE‐like (characterized by eotaxin‐3 expression), non‐specific, and lymphocytic variant cluster (characterized by CD3 cells and TSLP expression).

Conclusion

All EoE variants are clinically and histologically active conditions despite the absence of esophageal eosinophilia. EoE variants appear to be part of a disease spectrum, where classical EoE represents the most common and apparent phenotype.
Translation and emerging functions of non‐coding RNAs in inflammation and immunity
Authors: Della Bella Elena , Koch Jana , Baerenfaller Katja
Published: January 2022

Regulatory non‐coding RNAs (ncRNAs) including small non‐coding RNAs (sRNAs), long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) have gained considerable attention in the last few years. This is mainly due to their condition‐ and tissue‐specific expression and their various modes of action, which suggests them as promising biomarkers and therapeutic targets. One important mechanism of ncRNAs to regulate gene expression is through translation of short open reading frames (sORFs). These sORFs can be located in lncRNAs, in non‐translated regions of mRNAs where upstream ORFs (uORFs) represent the majority, or in circRNAs. Regulation of their translation can function as a quick way to adapt protein production to changing cellular or environmental cues, and can either depend solely on the initiation and elongation of translation, or on the roles of the produced functional peptides. Due to the experimental challenges to pinpoint translation events and to detect the produced peptides, translational regulation through regulatory RNAs is not well studied yet. In the case of circRNAs, they have only recently started to be recognized as regulatory molecules instead of mere artifacts of RNA biosynthesis. Of the many roles described for regulatory ncRNAs, we will focus here on their regulation during inflammation and in immunity.
Longitudinal effects of COVID‐19‐related stressors on young adults' mental health and wellbeing
Authors: Graupensperger Scott , Calhoun Brian H. , Patrick Megan E. , Lee Christine M.
Published: February 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic has presented young adults with novel challenges and disruptions to several life domains. The current study examined how COVID‐19‐related stressors (i.e., job‐related, financial‐related, social/relational, and illness‐related stressors) relate to young adults' symptoms of depression and anxiety, and satisfaction with life (in the US). In Aim 1, we examined associations between COVID‐19‐related stressors and indices of mental health and well‐being in the initial phase of the pandemic (April/May 2020) while accounting for participants' pre‐pandemic levels of these outcomes in January of 2020 (N = 519; Mage = 25.4; 62.8% women). Social/relational stressors were most strongly associated with increased symptoms of anxiety/depression, and financial stressors were most strongly associated with decreased satisfaction with life. Extending this research longitudinally (Aim 2), we sampled young adults bi‐monthly across a year‐long period (September 2020 to August 2021). Multilevel models revealed within‐person associations between each stressor domain and mental health/well‐being; young adults reported more symptoms of depression/anxiety and lower satisfaction with life in months that stressors were relatively more salient. Interactions between stressors and time revealed associations were generally stronger in earlier months and decreased linearly across the pandemic. Taken together, longitudinal evidence indicates that COVID‐19‐related stressors, especially social/relational stressors, have direct and time‐varying associations with mental health and well‐being.
A case of direct inguinal hernia incarceration after transperitoneal robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy
Authors: Nakamura Kenichi , Shibasaki Susumu , Fukaya Kosuke , Nakauchi Masaya , Tanaka Tsuyoshi , Inaba Kazuki , Shiroki Ryoichi , Uyama Ichiro , Suda Koichi
Published: February 2022

In this study, we report a case of incarcerated direct inguinal hernia (DIH) after robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) in a patient with concomitant DIH. The 71‐year‐old man underwent RARP. Six days later, he developed a right DIH incarceration. His laparoscopy findings revealed an incarcerated intestine that was adherent to the hernia orifice. After reducing the hernia, the peritoneum was found to be defective in the right DIH orifice. The DIH was then repaired via the Lichtenstein method. The patient was discharged without complications on postoperative day 13. No recurrence was observed at 3‐year follow‐up. When repair and peritoneum closure for concomitant DIH are not performed in RARP, it should be kept in mind that the nonrepaired concomitant DIH orifice may develop intestinal incarceration and adhesion to the hernia orifice without the peritoneum immediately after RARP.
Functional roles of frugivores and plants shape hyper‐diverse mutualistic interactions under two antagonistic conservation scenarios
Authors: Fuzessy Lisieux , Sobral Gisela , Carreira Daiane , Rother Débora Cristina , Barbosa Gedimar , Landis Mariana , Galetti Mauro , Dallas Tad , Cardoso Cláudio Vinícius , Culot Laurence , Jordano Pedro
Published: January 2022

Disentangling the structure of plant–animal mutualisms shed light on how species are organized, and allow us to infer about resilience, specificity, and ultimately the consequences of the loss of functions to the ecosystem. Here we gathered fruit–frugivore interactions for all the major vertebrate taxa interacting with plants in two conservation states in the Brazilian Atlantic forest: a small patch and a continuous forest. Using a network approach, we identified individual roles played by vertebrates and plants, as well as the most relevant functional traits determining the network structure. The most important vertebrates in the continuous forest were the frugivorous characterized by the ability to swallow fruits containing small to large seeds, but they also were the first to be vanished from the small patch decades ago. Animal gape/gullet size, but not body mass, together with the greatest degrees of frugivory contributed to structure the conserved community. In the forest patch, where specialization degrees (in terms of number of interactions performed) were lost, small generalist birds and the only still living primate, along with small lipid‐rich fruits, were central in maintaining community structure. This study brings insights on the potential of conserved forests to hold important species‐rich interactions, at the same time that small patches count on small birds and small fruits with increased energetic rewards to maintain structuring under human degradation threats. Our results reemphasize the importance of preserving large continuous forest remnants to support important mutualistic interactions subjected to functional traits already lost in small degraded patches.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
Long‐term comparison of the orchid bee community in the tropical dry forest of Costa Rica
Authors: Bravo Yanil , Hanson Paul E. , Chacón‐Madrigal Eduardo , Lobo‐Segura Jorge
Published: January 2022

Global bee decline and its impact on pollination in agricultural and natural ecosystems have attracted public attention. However, more data are needed to show their generality and intensity in different ecosystems, especially in the tropics. For centuries, the tropical dry forest (TDF) of Costa Rica underwent intense deforestation, but in the last four decades, a large part of this forest has entered a recovery process. Using data of orchid bees generated by Janzen et al. (Ecology, 63, 66) in TDF in the Santa Rosa sector of the Guanacaste Conservation Area (ACG), we posed a general question: What changes have occurred in diversity, composition, and seasonality of the euglossine bee community in the TDF during the last 40 years and how are these changes related to the current recovery of this forest. We sampled euglossine bees during 2018–2019 using methods similar to those applied previously. To characterize the response of euglossine bees to habitat loss, we extended the sampling to pastures adjacent to the protected area. With the loss (n = 4) and gain (n = 3) of bee species, we did not find significant changes in overall species richness between now and 40 years ago. However, the composition of the euglossine community in the protected area in 1977 was more similar to that found in current pastures than to the current community in forests, where the presence of forest‐dependent species has been favored. It is possible that TDF regeneration in Santa Rosa has led to changes in the composition of the community of these bees.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Fulfilling global marine commitments; lessons learned from Gabon
Authors: Metcalfe Kristian , White Lee , Lee Michelle E. , Fay J. Michael , Abitsi Gaspard , Parnell Richard J. , Smith Robert J. , Agamboue Pierre Didier , Bayet Jean Pierre , Mve Beh Jean Hervé , Bongo Serge , Boussamba Francois , De Bruyne Godefroy , Cardiec Floriane , Chartrain Emmanuel , Collins Tim , Doherty Philip D. , Formia Angela , Gately Mark , Gnandji Micheline Schummer , Ikoubou Innocent , Kema Kema Judicael Régis , Kombila Koumba , Kongo Pavlick Etoughe , Manfoumbi Jean Churley , Maxwell Sara M. , Mba Asseko Georges H. , McClellan Catherine M. , Minton Gianna , Ndjimbou Samyra Orianne , Nkoane Ndoutoume Guylène , Bibang Bi Nguema Jean Noel , Nkizogho Teddy , Nzegoue Jacob , Kouerey Oliwina Carmen Karen , Otsagha Franck Mbeme , Savarit Diane , Pikesley Stephen K. , du Plessis Philippe , Rainey Hugo , Kingbell Rockombeny Lucienne Ariane Diapoma , Rosenbaum Howard C. , Segan Dan , Sounguet Guy‐Philippe , Stokes Emma J. , Tilley Dominic , Vilela Raul , Viljoen Wynand , Weber Sam B. , Witt Matthew J. , Godley Brendan J.
Published: February 2022

As part of the Post‐2020 Biodiversity Framework, nations are assessing progress over the past decade in addressing the underlying drivers that influence direct pressures on biodiversity and formulating new policies and strategies for the decade to come. For marine conservation, global marine protected area (MPA) coverage is still falling short of the 10% target set in 2010. Here we show that while this reflects a lack of progress in many low‐ and middle‐income countries, a few of these nations have met or exceeded international commitments. To provide an in‐depth explanation of how this was achieved in Gabon, we summarize the lessons learnt by our consortium of policy makers and practitioners who helped implement a comprehensive and ecologically representative network of 20 MPAs. We show the importance of creating a national framework, building long‐term stakeholder support, and focusing on research that guides implementation and policy; and outline a four‐step approach that countries and donors could use as an example to help meet international commitments. By responding to calls to share lessons learned to inform future Convention on Biological Diversity targets, we show how Gabon's experiences could inform change elsewhere.
The distinctive histopathology of cicatricial alopecia caused by IgG4‐related disease
Authors: Sperling Leonard C. , von Kuster Ken , Silver Shane
Published: January 2022

IgG4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD) is characterized by masses at multiple sites, a dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate containing numerous IgG4+ plasma cells, storiform fibrosis, and often elevated serum IgG4 concentrations. We present a third case of alopecia (in this instance, cicatricial) caused by IgG4‐RD. Based on our findings combined with those seen in two other cases, the histopathologic features of IgG4‐RD alopecia include: sparing of the epidermis, cicatricial (scarring) alopecia with a markedly decreased number of hairs, miniaturization of residual hairs, and total loss of the sebaceous glands. Groups of follicles with their associated sebaceous glands (follicular units) are replaced by an extremely dense infiltrate of lymphocytes and especially plasma cells. Histiocytic aggregates, both foamy and non‐foamy, may also be present. Variable degrees of fibroplasia may be present but are not an important feature in this type of alopecia.
Concominant bullous pemphigoid and cutaneous Crohn disease
Authors: Cobb Caryn B. C. , Caravaglio Joseph V. , Qureshi Abrar A. , Robinson‐Bostom Leslie
Published: January 2022

We report a case of new‐onset bullous pemphigoid manifesting concurrently with cutaneous Crohn disease in a 58‐year‐old woman. Cutaneous Crohn disease is an extraintestinal manifestation of Crohn disease characterized by non‐specific plaques or nodules. Bullous pemphigoid, a sub‐epidermal autoimmune blistering disorder, has been observed in the setting of inflammatory bowel disease. The patient presented with recurrent bullae on the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks of 1 year's duration. She was not on any immunosuppressive therapies and had been treated with infliximab and azathioprine for her Crohn disease, which were discontinued 8 years before the blistering commenced. Punch biopsy of lesional skin showed a sub‐epidermal blister with eosinophils. Sarcoidal and tuberculoid granulomas were present in the dermis. Direct immunofluorescence revealed linear 2+ IgG and 3+ C3 along the basement membrane. Indirect immunofluorescence was positive for BP180 and BP230 antibodies. These findings support the diagnosis of bullous pemphigoid with concomitant cutaneous Crohn disease. Both bullous pemphigoid and Crohn disease have been associated with an altered T‐cell response. The similarities in the pathogenesis of the underlying inflammatory milieu suggest a possible etiopathogenic connection. This is believed to be the first report of cutaneous Crohn disease presenting simultaneously with bullous pemphigoid on histopathological examination.
Early motor repertoire and neurodevelopment at 2 years in infants born extremely preterm or extremely‐low‐birthweight
Authors: Kwong Amanda K. L. , Doyle Lex W. , Olsen Joy E. , Eeles Abbey L. , Lee Katherine J. , Cheong Jeanie L. Y. , Spittle Alicia J.
Published: February 2022

Aim

To determine the relationship between early motor repertoire and 2‐year neurodevelopment in infants born extremely preterm (<28 weeks’ gestation) or extremely‐low‐birthweight (ELBW) (<1000g).

Method

This was a geographical prospective cohort of 139 infants born extremely preterm/ELBW (mean gestational age 26.7 weeks, standard deviation [SD] 2.0, 68/139 [49%] male), with parent‐recorded videos suitable for scoring the General Movements Assessment (GMA). Motor repertoire was assessed using the Motor Optimality Score‐Revised (MOS‐R), with and without the fidgety movement subsection, and the GMA alone at 12 to 13+6 weeks corrected age and 14 to 15+6 weeks corrected age. At 2 years corrected age, impaired development was defined as Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition motor and cognitive development scores 1SD or less relative to controls born at term; paediatricians diagnosed cerebral palsy (CP).

Results

Greater MOS‐R scores at 14 to 15+6 weeks corrected age were associated with lower odds of CP (odds ratio [OR] per 1‐point increase=0.83, 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.71–0.99), and motor (OR=0.93, 95% CI=0.87–0.99), or cognitive impairment (OR=0.94, 95% CI=0.88–0.99). Absent/abnormal GMA at 14 to 15+6 weeks was associated with CP and motor delay. There was little evidence that MOS‐R scores at 12 to 13+6 weeks were associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes at 2 years.

Interpretation

Poorer MOS‐R scores and absent/abnormal GMA, scored from parent‐recorded videos at 14 to 15+6 weeks gestational age, are associated with CP and developmental impairment in 2‐year‐old infants born extremely preterm/ELBW.
Ron Clark
Authors: Clark Ron
Published: February 2022

A Design leader shares his insights about the experiences of the past two years as well as evolving strategies for ensuring that people are cared for.
Biologically active cuticular compounds of female Sirex noctilio
Authors: Faal Hajar , Silk Peter J. , LeClair Gaetan , Teale Stephen A.
Published: January 2022

The Eurasian woodwasp Sirex noctilio Fabricius (Hymenoptera: Siricidae) is a major invasive pest in pine plantations of the Southern Hemisphere. In this study, we aimed to identify pheromone compounds in S. noctilio females, for potential use in lures for pest monitoring and control. An examination of S. noctilio body washes resulted in the identification of a behaviorally active compound, 10‐oxo‐decanoic acid (10‐ODA), that is derived from cuticular hydrocarbons of females. This oxocarboxylic acid is likely produced through oxidative reactions at the cleavage of double bonds of certain female‐produced cuticular dienes. Gas chromatography‐electroantennogram detection (GC‐EAD) analyses showed that only male antennae consistently responded to natural and synthetic 10‐ODA. In olfactometer assays, 10‐ODA alone was attractive to S. noctilio males, although males marginally preferred the combination of 10‐ODA and nonanal, compared with 10‐ODA alone. This suggests pheromonal activity of this compound. However, no wasps were captured in initial field trapping experiments with 10‐ODA and further work is required.
Feasibility of high performance in p‐type Ge1−xBixTe materials for thermoelectric modules
Authors: Dashevsky Zinovi , Horichok Ihor , Maksymuk Mykola , Muchtar Ahmad Rifqi , Srinivasan Bhuvanesh , Mori Takao
Published: January 2022

GeTe is a promising candidate for the fabrication of high‐temperature segments for p‐type thermoelectric (TE) legs. The main restriction for the widespread use of this material in TE devices is high carrier concentration (up to ∼ 1021 cm−3), which causes the low Seebeck coefficient and high electronic component of thermal conductivity. In this work, the band structure diagram and phase equilibria data have been effectively used to attune the carrier concentration and to obtain the high TE performance. The Ge1−xBixTe (x = 0.04) material prepared by the Spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique demonstrates a high power factor accompanied by moderate thermal conductivity. As a result, a significantly higher dimensionless TE figure of merit ZT = 2.0 has been obtained at ∼ 800 K. Moreover, we are the first to propose that application of the developed Ge1−xBixTe (x = 0.04) material in the TE unicouple should be accompanied by SnTe and CoGe2 transition layers. Only such a unique solution for the TE unicouple makes it possible to prevent the negative effects of high contact resistance and chemical diffusion between the segments at high temperatures.
Fragmentation and granular transition of ceramics for high rate loading
Authors: Bhattacharjee Amartya , Hurley Ryan C. , Graham‐Brady Lori
Published: January 2022

The paper presents a numerical model to study the transition of brittle materials from a cracked solid to a granular medium under impact loading. The model addresses competitive crack coalescence in the transition regime and provides insight into the onset of comminution and the initial conditions for subsequent granular flow. Crack statistics obtained from initial flaws using a wing crack growth‐based damage model have been used to discretely model elliptical cracks in three dimensions. These discrete cracks are either generated randomly in space or with a constraint that minimizes the intersection between neighboring cracks. These cracks are then allowed to coalesce with nearby cracks along with favorable directions and the output fragment statistics are predicted. A simple statistical model is proposed that suggests a transition criterion resembling the one obtained from the numerical model. Initial fragments are power‐law distributed similarly to experimental observations and particle‐based models. A generalized form of a microstructure‐dependent granular transition criterion based on a threshold measure of crack lengths has been proposed. This model can be implemented in numerical codes to activate granular physics and calibrate the initial conditions of granular flow, such as fragment size and morphology.
An actin-like protein PoARP9 involves in the regulation of development and cellulase and amylase expression in Penicillium oxalicum
Authors: Xu Gen , Guo Hao , Yan Mengdi , Jia Zhilei , Li Zhonghai , Chen Mei , Bao Xiaoming
Published: January 2022

Aims

In eukaryotic cells, chromatin remodelling complexes are essential for the accessibility of transcription factors to the specific regulating regions of downstream genes. Here, we identified an actin-like protein PoARP9 in cellulase production strain Penicillium oxalicum 114-2, which was an essential member of SWI/SNF complex. To investigate the physiological function of PoARP9 in transcriptional regulation, the coding gene Poarp9 was deleted in P. oxalicum 114-2.

Methods and Results

The absence of PoARP9 affected the colony growth on medium with glucose, cellulose or starch as sole carbon source. Meanwhile, the expression levels of major cellulase genes were all upregulated in ΔPoarp9 under the cellulase-inducing condition. In addition, the expression levels of amylase transcription activator AmyR as well as two major amylase genes were also increased in ΔPoarp9.

Conclusions

These results demonstrated that chromatin remodelling affects the development and expression of cellulase and amylase in P. oxalicum. And the SWI/SNF complex member PoARP9 plays essential roles in these processes.

Significance and Impact of the Study

This study provided new insights into the regulation of cellulase and development in P. oxalicum. And the regulatory function of SWI/SNF complex member ARP9 towards cellulase and amylase expression in P. oxalicum was verified for the first time.
Evaluation of environmental conditions as a decontamination approach for SARS-CoV-2 when applied to common library, archive and museum-related materials
Authors: Richter William R. , Sunderman Michelle M. , Mera Tom O. , O'Brien Kim A. , Morgan Kendra , Streams Sharon
Published: January 2022

Aims

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of ambient or altered environmental conditions on the inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 applied to materials common in libraries, archives and museums.

Methods and Results

Porous and non-porous materials (e.g. paper, plastic protective book cover) were inoculated with approximately 1 × 105 TCID50 SARS CoV-2 (USA-WA1/2020), dried, placed within test chamber in either a stacked or unstacked configuration, and exposed to environmental conditions ranging from 4 to 29°C at 40 ± 10% relative humidity. The amount of infectious SARS-CoV-2 was then assessed at various timepoints from 0 to 10 days. Ambient conditions resulted in varying inactivation rates per material type. Virus inactivation rate decreased when materials were stacked or at colder temperatures. Virus inactivation rate increased when materials were unstacked or at warmer temperatures.

Conclusions

SARS-CoV-2 at ambient conditions resulted in the inactivation of virus below limit of quantitation (LOQ) for all materials by Day 8. Warmer temperatures, for a subset of materials, increased SARS-CoV-2 inactivation, and all were <LOQ by Day 3.

Significance and Impact of the Study

These results provide information for the library, archives and museum community regarding the inactivation of SARS-CoV-2, showing that inactivation is possible using prescribed environmental conditions and is a potential method of decontamination for items not compatible with common liquid disinfectants.
Incidence and molecular characterization of ESBL-producing and colistin-resistant Escherichia coli isolates recovered from healthy food-producing animals in Pakistan
Authors: Shafiq Muhammad , Rahman Sadeeq Ur , Bilal Hazrat , Ullah Aftab , Noman Sohail Muhammad , Zeng Mi , Yuan Yumeng , Xie Qingdong , Li Xin , Jiao Xiaoyang
Published: January 2022

Objectives

To investigate the occurrence and molecular features of ESBL-producing and colistin-resistant Escherichia coli isolates recovered from healthy food-producing animals in Pakistan.

Methods

A total of 153 E. coli isolates were recovered from 250 faecal samples collected from livestock and poultry. The antibiotic susceptibility, resistant determinants and mobile genetic elements were determined for all the isolates. The clonal relatedness was analysed by MLST. Plasmids harbouring, localization and transferability of mcr-1 gene were carried out by Southern hybridization, S1-PFGE and transconjugation.

Results

Out of 153 E. coli strains, 49.01% isolates were ESBLs producers, whereas 18.95% were resistant to colistin and 84.31% of the isolates. Multidrug resistance was found in 84% of the isolates. The ESBL-producing E. coli in buffaloes, cattle, sheep, goat and broilers faecal samples were 60%, 74%, 54%, 50% and 68%, respectively. Among the ESBLs genes, blaCTX-M was the most prevalent group detected in 98.66%, while only mcr-1 of the colistin-resistant genes could be PCR amplified in 29 isolates. The common MGEs found were ISECP1 (35.13%), ISCR1 (33.78%), ISApl1 (20.27%) and Inti1 (58.10%). The most predominant Inc. types found were IncFIB 46.66%, followed by IncFIA 30.66%, IncFIC 26.66%, IncFrepB 26.66%, IncHI2 26.66%, IncP 22.66% and IncX4 21.33%. The most frequent sequence type detected was ST58. Southern blot and S1-PFGE confirmed the plasmid harbouring of mcr-1 gene.

Conclusion

The co-occurrence of mcr-1 and ESBLs-encoding genes, along with MGEs in E. coli from healthy food animals in Pakistan, is a major concern.

Significance and Impact of Study

Antimicrobial resistance can be transferred from animals to humans by direct contact or via the food chain and environment. The prevalence and co-occurrence of ESBL and colistin resistance genes from food-producing animals is rare in Pakistan. To our knowledge, this is the first report to find ESBLs and mcr-1-harbouring E. coli from the faecal samples of the healthy food-producing animals in Pakistan. The presence of ARGs in association with MGEs, co-harbouring the virulence factors, as determined in the current study, is a severe threat to livestock and the human community as it has horizontally and food web transferability.
Maternal incarceration in a provincial prison in Canada: A qualitative study
Authors: Paynter Martha , Heggie Clare , Matheson Lauren , Rillie Claire , Beals Dominica , Bray Mirinda
Published: February 2022

Aims

To explore the experiences of provincially incarcerated mothers in Nova Scotia, Canada; and to make recommendations with respect to improving the experiences of mothers facing criminalization and their children.

Design

This qualitative study is rooted in feminist standpoint theory, community‐based research methodologies and prison abolition.

Methods

Mothers who were currently or previously incarcerated were recruited by community partners. Between Fall 2021 and Winter 2022, 14 individual interviews and one focus group were conducted, for a total of 18 study participants. Data were analysed collaboratively using thematic analysis.

Results

Three key themes were developed through the data analysis: Maintaining Connection, Broken Bonds and The Damage. Mothers shared experiences of trying to maintain connections with their children through numerous challenges, including emotional distress caused by the separation and significant logistical and financial barriers. Mothers felt their children unfairly bore the burden of their incarceration. They experienced a lack of or outright denial of services while incarcerated, and a lack of transitional support on release, making working towards parenting again difficult and discouraging.

Conclusion

For participants in our study, separation from their children during incarceration caused severe emotional distress and had serious implications on their right to parent and their relationships with their children. Incarceration for even brief periods has detrimental social impacts, and release planning does not prepare people for the challenges of repairing that damage. Conditions of maternal incarceration are in violation of international human rights laws.

Impact

Although we make some recommendations for reform (e.g. free phone calls), we focus on alternatives to incarceration for mothers experiencing criminalization. Findings will be shared with relevant institutional partners with the goal of impacting sentencing and incarceration practices.
Justice, Collective Self‐Determination, and the Ethics of Immigration Control
Authors: Song Sarah
Published: February 2022

This article brings Gillian Brock and Alex Sager's recently published books into conversation with my book, Immigration and Democracy. It begins with a summary of the main normative arguments of my book to set the stage for critical engagement with Brock and Sager's books. While I agree with Brock's Justice for People on the Move that state power must be justified to both insiders and outsiders, I think she gives too little weight to the value of collective self‐determination. I distinguish between justice and collective self‐determination and argue that each is an important component of legitimacy. Sager's Against Borders focuses on immigration enforcement and contends that violence is inherent in border controls. Every legal system is backed by the threat of the use of force; the question is whether the use of force by state agents is justified. In contrast to Sager, I argue that the proper response to the injustices of current immigration enforcement is reform, not abolition, of the immigration system.
Disruption of amphetamine sensitization by alteration of dendritic thin spines in the nucleus accumbens core
Authors: Cai Wen Ting , Kim Wha Young , Kwak Myung Ji , Rim Haeun , Lee Seung Eun , Riecken Lars Björn , Morrison Helen , Kim Jeong‐Hoon
Published: January 2022

Repeated injections of psychomotor stimulants like amphetamine (AMPH) to rodents can induce behavioral sensitization, which represents a long‐lasting craving that is usually observed in human addicts. Behavioral sensitization is characteristically maintained for a long duration, accompanied by structural plasticity in some brain areas involved in reward circuitry. For example, it increased dendritic spine densities in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc), which is considered to reflect neurophysiological changes at this site, leading to addictive behaviors. The ezrin, radixin, and moesin (ERM) proteins regulate spine maturity by modifying their phosphorylation at the C‐terminal region. We previously showed that ERM phosphorylation is reduced by AMPH in the NAcc core, suggesting that ERM‐mediated spine changes at this site might be associated with AMPH sensitization. To test this hypothesis, we administered AMPH to rats according to a sensitization development schedule, with lentivirus encoding a phosphomimetic pseudo‐active mutant of radixin (Rdx T564D) in the NAcc core, and examined dendritic spines at this site. We found that compared to acute AMPH, AMPH sensitization increased thin spine density with a similar ratio of filopodia‐like to mature thin spines. However, with Rdx T564D, the density of thin spines increased, with augmented filopodia‐like thin spines, resulting in no AMPH sensitization. These results indicate that Rdx T564D forces thin spines to immaturity and thereby inhibits AMPH sensitization, for which an increase in mature thin spines is normally necessary. These findings provide significant clues to our understanding of the role of dendritic spines in mediating the development of psychomotor stimulant addiction.

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Effects of replacement of corn silage and distillers' grain diets with hay during prepartum on the health and production performance of dairy heifers postpartum
Authors: Luo Zhengzhong , Yong Kang , Huang Yixin , Zhang Chuanshi , Shen Liuhong , Jiang Hua , Yang Xiao , Zhang Yong , Cao Suizhong
Published: February 2022

In this study, we aimed to comprehensively evaluate the effects of prepartum replacement of corn silage and distillers' grain diets with hay on the postpartum health and production performance in dairy heifers. Pregnant Holstein dairy heifers were randomly assigned to two groups and fed different diets with the same net energy and protein concentrations. The low corn silage plus hay (CH) group diet mainly contained oat hay (28.5%), corn silage (25%) and folium ginkgo (23%). The high corn silage plus distillers' grains (CD) group diet contained corn silage (53.5%), distillers' grains (5%) and folium ginkgo (18%). Dairy heifers were fed from the beginning of pregnancy to the end of the transition period. Calf birthweight, postpartum morbidity, milk production and reproductive performance were determined. Compared with the cows in the CH group, those in the CD group presented increased calf birthweight and a high risk of some postpartum disorders (p < 0.05), particularly ketosis (37.63% vs. 24.54%) and retained placenta (9.41% vs. 3.92%). However, there was no difference between the groups in reproductive performance, including first timed artificial insemination (TAI) rate, date of TAI and conception rate of TAI. The lactation curves showed no difference in milk yield during the peak lactation period of primiparous cows between the CH and CD groups; the total milk production was 33.39 kg and 33.19 kg respectively. Notably, the time to peak milk production was delayed in the CD group. It can be concluded that replacing corn silage and distillers' grains with hay can reduce postpartum morbidity in dairy heifers and shorten the time to peak milk production.
LOTVS: A global collection of permanent vegetation plots
Authors: Sperandii Marta Gaia , de Bello Francesco , Valencia Enrique , Götzenberger Lars , Bazzichetto Manuele , Galland Thomas , E‐Vojtkó Anna , Conti Luisa , Adler Peter B. , Buckley Hannah , Danihelka Jiří , Day Nicola J. , Dengler Jürgen , Eldridge David J. , Estiarte Marc , García‐González Ricardo , Garnier Eric , Gómez‐García Daniel , Hallett Lauren , Harrison Susan , Herben Tomas , Ibáñez Ricardo , Jentsch Anke , Juergens Norbert , Kertész Miklós , Kimuyu Duncan M. , Klumpp Katja , Le Duc Mike , Louault Frédérique , Marrs Rob H. , Ónodi Gábor , Pakeman Robin J. , Pärtel Meelis , Peco Begoña , Peñuelas Josep , Rueda Marta , Schmidt Wolfgang , Schmiedel Ute , Schuetz Martin , Skalova Hana , Šmilauer Petr , Šmilauerová Marie , Smit Christian , Song Ming‐Hua , Stock Martin , Val James , Vandvik Vigdis , Wesche Karsten , Wiser Susan K. , Woodcock Ben A. , Young Truman P. , Yu Fei‐Hai , Wolf Amelia A. , Zobel Martin , Lepš Jan
Published: January 2022

Analysing temporal patterns in plant communities is extremely important to quantify the extent and the consequences of ecological changes, especially considering the current biodiversity crisis. Long‐term data collected through the regular sampling of permanent plots represent the most accurate resource to study ecological succession, analyse the stability of a community over time and understand the mechanisms driving vegetation change. We hereby present the LOng‐Term Vegetation Sampling (LOTVS) initiative, a global collection of vegetation time‐series derived from the regular monitoring of plant species in permanent plots. With 79 data sets from five continents and 7,789 vegetation time‐series monitored for at least 6 years and mostly on an annual basis, LOTVS possibly represents the largest collection of temporally fine‐grained vegetation time‐series derived from permanent plots and made accessible to the research community. As such, it has an outstanding potential to support innovative research in the fields of vegetation science, plant ecology and temporal ecology.
A Systematic Review of Research Syntheses on Students with Mathematics Learning Disabilities and Difficulties
Authors: Nelson Gena , Crawford Angela , Hunt Jessica , Park Soyoung , Leckie Emily , Duarte Alex , Brafford Tasia , Ramos‐Duke Mary , Zarate Kary
Published: February 2022

The purpose of the systematic review of mathematics intervention syntheses was to identify patterns and gaps in content areas, instructional strategies, effect sizes, and definitions of learning disabilities (LD), mathematics LD (MLD), and mathematics difficulty (MD). Using rigorous inclusion criteria, we evaluated 36 syntheses that included 836 studies with 32,495 participants. Although each synthesis stated a focus on LD, MLD, or MD, few students with LD or MLD were included, and the authors’ operational definitions of disability and risk varied. Syntheses predominantly focused on word‐problem solving, fractions, computer‐assisted learning, and schema‐based instruction. Wide variation in effectiveness, content areas, and instructional strategies was reported. Finally, our results indicate the majority of syntheses included achievement outcomes, but very few reported on other outcomes (e.g., social validity, strategy use). We discuss how the results of this comprehensive review can guide researchers in expanding the knowledgebase on mathematics interventions.
Revisiting the determinants of house prices in China’s megacities: Cross‐sectional heterogeneity, interdependencies and spillovers
Authors: Liu Chunping , Ou Zhirong
Published: January 2022

We revisit the determinants of house prices in China’s megacities. Previous work on similar topics fails to account for the widespread cross‐sectional heterogeneity and interdependencies, despite the importance of them. Using a PVAR estimated by the Bayesian method allowing for these features, we find each city is rather unique, especially on the extent to which local house prices are disturbed by external house price shocks. The spillovers may be partly related to the demand side before 2010, but seems more related to supply factors thereafter, due to the imposition of property purchase restrictions. The new evidence we establish therefore suggests that city‐level stabilisation of house prices should fully respect local features, including how local markets respond to external disturbances.
The importance of alternative splicing in adaptive evolution
Authors: Singh Pooja , Ahi Ehsan Pashay
Published: January 2022

Although alternative splicing is a ubiquitous co‐transcriptional gene regulatory mechanism in plants, animals and fungi, its contribution to evolutionary transitions is understudied. Alternative splicing enables different mRNA isoforms to be generated from the same gene, expanding transcriptomic and thus proteomic diversity. While the role of gene expression variation in adaptive evolution is widely accepted, biologists still debate the functional impact of alternative isoforms on phenotype. In light of recent empirical research linking splice variation to ecological adaptations, we propose that alternative splicing is an important substrate for adaptive evolution and speciation, particularly at short timescales. In this article we synthesise what is known about the role of alternative splicing in adaptive evolution. We discuss the contribution of standing splice variation to phenotypic plasticity and how hybridisation can produce novel splice forms. Going forwards, we propose that alternative splicing be included as a standard analysis alongside gene expression analysis so we can better understand of how alternative splicing contributes to adaptive divergence at the micro‐ and macroevolutionary levels.
Differential photoregulation of the nuclear and cytoplasmic CRY1 in Arabidopsis
Authors: Liu Siyuan , Zhang Li , Gao Lin , Chen Ziyin , Bie Yaxue , Zhao Qiannan , Zhang Shanshan , Hu Xiaohua , Liu Qing , Wang Xu , Wang Qin
Published: January 2022

Arabidopsis cryptochrome 1 (CRY1) is a blue light receptor distributed in the nucleus and cytoplasm. The nuclear CRY1, but not cytoplasmic CRY1, mediates blue light inhibition of hypocotyl elongation. However, the photobiochemical mechanisms distinguishing the CRY1 protein in the two subcellular compartments remains unclear. Here we show that the nuclear CRY1, but not the cytoplasmic CRY1, is regulated by phosphorylation, polyubiquitination and 26S proteasome‐dependent proteolysis in response to blue light. The blue light‐dependent CRY1 degradation is observed only under high fluences of blue light.

The nuclear specificity and high fluence dependency of CRY1 explain why this photochemical regulatory mechanism of CRY1 was not observed previously and it further supports the hypothesis that CRY1 is a high light receptor regulating photomorphogenesis.

We further show that the nuclear CRY1, but not cytoplasmic CRY1, undergoes blue light‐dependent phosphorylation by photoregulatory protein kinase 1 (PPK1) followed by polyubiquitination by the E3 ubiquitin ligase Cul4COP1/SPAs, resulting in the blue light‐dependent proteolysis. Both phosphorylation and ubiquitination of nuclear CRY1 are inhibited by blue‐light inhibitor of cryptochromes 1 (BIC1), demonstrating the involvement of photo‐oligomerization of the nuclear CRY1.

These finding reveals a photochemical mechanism that differentially regulates the physiological activity of the CRY1 photoreceptor in distinct subcellular compartments.
Partial Identification and Estimation of Semiparametric Ordered Response Models with Interval Regressor Data*
Authors: Wang Xi , Chen Songnian
Published: January 2022

In many micro‐data studies, the dependent variable often involves ordered categories and at least one regressor is measured by the interval rather than the precise value. This paper considers partial identification of such an ordered response model when point identification fails. We show the identified set of non‐intercept coefficients is the intersection of those for composite binary response models. We also propose a generalized modified maximum score set (GMMS) estimator. A practical implication of our finding is researchers can shrink the identified set and obtain more precise inference by designing as many as categories of response in a questionnaire during data collection. Another advantage is our theoretical finding can be used to infer the identified region in the multinomial choice model. A Monte Carlo study is conducted to illustrate the main finding in a finite sample. Finally, we apply GMMS estimator to a job satisfaction study using US data with the interval income.
Testing for Asymmetric Comovements*
Authors: Chuang O‐Chia , Song Xiaojun , Taamouti Abderrahim
Published: January 2022

This paper aims to provide non‐parametric tests for asymmetric comovements between random variables. We consider the popular Cramér‐von Mises and Kolmogorov–Smirnov test statistics based on the distance between positive and negative joint conditional exceedance distribution functions. These tests can capture both linear and nonlinear dependence in the data and do not require selecting kernel functions and bandwidths. We derive the asymptotic distributions of the tests and establish the validity of a block multiplier‐type bootstrap that one can use in finite‐sample settings. We also show that these tests are consistent for any fixed alternative and have non‐trivial power for detecting local alternatives converging to the null at the parametric rate. Monte Carlo simulations and a real financial data analysis illustrate satisfactory performance of the proposed tests.
Network structures and network effects across management and policy contexts: A systematic review
Authors: Hu Qian , Medina Alejandra , Siciliano Michael D. , Wang Weijie
Published: January 2022

The wide application of networks in public administration has been driven by the practical need to address increasingly complex management and policy problems. To understand the outcomes of network structures, we reviewed empirical network research and examined the effects of six network structural properties across the five most studied policy domains. We found that certain structural properties such as global connectedness were consistently associated with positive network effects. Other structures such as brokerage/structural holes provided mixed findings, depending on the policy domain. Overall, our field is still in the early stages of developing research on network effects. The number of hypotheses on both node‐level and system‐level effects in any policy domain was relatively small. Most studies focused only on a single network at a single point in time, and thus very little work currently exists that examines the influence of contextual factors and their combined effects with network structures.
Manufacturing the placebo effect
Authors: Hardman Doug
Published: January 2022

In the context of modern medicine, the placebo effect is a troublesome and controversial phrase. In this paper, I use investigative ordinary language philosophy to try to get clear on what it means. In so doing, I uncover three points. (i) The placebo effect makes sense in research but not clinical practice. (ii) To make the phrase make sense in clinical practice, we must manufacture a situation in which we can change linguistic habits. (iii) Such action is not necessary because in clinical practice we do better with other, more settled words and phrases.
Esthetic complications in implant dentistry
Authors: Ramanauskaite Ausra , Sader Robert
Published: February 2022

Esthetic complications in implant dentistry have become a significant consideration for patients and practitioners. This review presents an appraisal on the current knowledge of the physiological peri‐implant soft‐tissue dimensions and factors that may compromise peri‐implant tissue esthetics. Factors such as papilla fill adjacent to the implant and midfacial mucosal height are critical parameters that determine the esthetic success of implant‐supported restorations. Papilla fill adjacent to a single dental implant appears to depend upon the clinical attachment level of the neighboring tooth. A horizontal inter‐implant distance of at least 3 mm is necessary to ensure optimal interproximal mucosal embrasure between two adjacent implants in the anterior maxilla. In cases where implants cannot be placed at least 3 mm apart, a single implant with a cantilever bridge should be considered. Buccolingual implant positioning plays a major role in midfacial mucosal height. Soft‐tissue volume grafting following immediate implant placement in the presence of a thin soft‐tissue phenotype or simultaneous to surgical peri‐implantitis therapy might help to overcome facial mucosa recession.
Fluticasone furoate: CAPTAIN of fluticasones in type 2 inflammatory asthma
Authors: Couillard Simon , Pavord Ian D.
Published: February 2022

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