bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aggregated filter‐feeders govern the flux and stoichiometry of locally available energy and nutrients in rivers
Authors: Hopper Garrett W. , Chen Shuo , Sánchez González Irene , Bucholz Jamie R. , Lu YueHan , Atkinson Carla L.
Published: February 2021

Biogeochemical cycling has often been characterized by physical and microbial processes, yet animals can be essential mediators of energy and nutrients in ecosystems. Excretion by aggregated animals can be an important local source of inorganic nutrients in green food webs; however, whether animals are a source of dissolved energy that can support brown food webs is understudied.

We tested whether animal aggregations are a substantial flux of bioavailable dissolved organic matter (DOM) by studying spatially stable, biogeochemical hotspots formed by filter‐feeding freshwater mussels. We used parallel‐factor analysis to quantify DOM fluorescent components composition of mussel excretion and expected digestive breakdown of particulate food sources would lead to excretion of labile DOM. Next, we combined measured excretion rates of DOM, ammonium (, N) and phosphorous (SRP; P) for 22 species with biomass estimates for 14 aggregations to quantify contributions of DOM, N and P to local availability. Because mussels occupy distinct stoichiometric niches, we anticipated that differences in species biomass and assemblage structure would elicit different flux and stoichiometries of aggregate excretion.

Aggregate dissolved organic carbon (DOC) excretion was minor (1%–11%) compared to N (12%–2,860%) and P (1%–97%), yet generalities across assemblages emerged regarding organic matter transformation by mussels towards labile protein‐like compounds compared to abundant aromatic, humic compounds in ambient water.

Aggregate excretion of labile DOM was a substantial pool of bioavailable energy, contributing 2%–114% of local labile DOM. Spatial differences in assemblage structure led to strong differences in aggregate flux and stoichiometry driven by biomass and stoichiometric trait expression of species with contrasting dominance patterns.

Under the nutrient conditions of our study (high C:nutrient), biogeochemical hotspots associated with low‐trophic position animal biomass may indirectly control energy flow to the brown food web by shifting C:nutrient stoichiometry available to microbes or directly by increasing the flux of microbially available DOM. Collectively, our results highlight a potentially substantial flux of labile energy and nutrients to microbial communities through the transformation of ingested organic matter by aggregations of animals and emphasize that shared functional trait classification may not translate into shared ecological function.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Community‐wide consequences of nonconsumptive predator effects on a foundation species
Authors: Catalán Alexis M. , Büchner‐Miranda Joseline , Riedemann Bárbara , Chaparro Oscar R. , Valdivia Nelson , Scrosati Ricardo A.
Published: February 2021

Predators can exert nonconsumptive effects (NCEs) on prey, which often take place through prey behavioural adjustments to minimise predation risk. As NCEs are widespread in nature, interest is growing to determine whether NCEs on a prey species can indirectly influence several other species simultaneously, thus leading to changes in community structure.

In this study, we investigate whether a predator can exert NCEs on a foundation species and indirectly affect community structure.

Through laboratory experiments, we first tested whether the predatory marine snail Acanthina monodon exerts negative NCEs on larviphagy (consumption of pelagic larvae) and phytoplankton filtration rates of the mussel Perumytilus purpuratus, an intertidal foundation species. These hypotheses stem from the notion that mussels may decrease feeding activities in the presence of predator cues to limit detection by predators. Afterwards, a field experiment tested whether the presence of A. monodon near mussel beds leads to higher colonisation rates of invertebrates that reproduce through pelagic larvae (expected under a lower larviphagy in P. purpuratus) and to a lower algal biomass on P. purpuratus shells (expected under a lower metabolite excretion in the mussels), thereby changing the community structure of the species typically found in P. purpuratus beds.

The laboratory experiments revealed that waterborne cues from A. monodon limit the larviphagy and filtration rates of P. purpuratus. In turn, the field experiment showed that A. monodon cues led to greater abundances of barnacles and bivalves and a lower algal biomass in P. purpuratus beds, thus altering community structure.

Overall, this study shows that a predator can indirectly affect community structure through NCEs on an invertebrate foundation species. As invertebrate foundation species are ubiquitous worldwide, understanding predator NCEs on these organisms could help to better understand community regulation in systems structured by such species.
Field evidence reveals conservative water use of poplar saplings under high aerosol conditions
Authors: Wang Bin , Wang Zhenhua , Wang Chengzhang , Wang Xin , Li Jing , Jia Zhou , Li Ping , Wu Jin , Chen Min , Liu Lingli
Published: February 2021

Anthropogenic aerosols could alter multiple meteorological processes such as radiation regime and air temperature, thereby modifying plant transpiration. However, the lack of field observations at leaf and plant level hinders our ability to understand how aerosols could affect plant water use.

Aerosol concentrations in northern China fluctuate periodically over a wide range. Taking advantage of this unique natural experiment opportunity, we conducted a series of physiological and environmental measurements at different times of the day to explore diurnal aerosols' effect on leaf transpiration and sap flow of planted poplar saplings (Populus × canadensis Moench).

We found that high aerosol concentrations suppressed sun leaf transpiration by reducing leaf‐to‐air vapour pressure deficit (VPDleaf), while had no effect on shade leaf transpiration mainly because the negative effect of reduced VPDleaf on transpiration offset the positive effects of the increased stomatal conductance (gs). As aerosol concentration increased, the gs of both sun and shade leaves decreased more rapidly with an increase in VPDleaf, which caused their transpiration rates to become less sensitive to VPDleaf. Similarly, aerosols reduced sap flow density and its sensitivity to VPD.

Synthesis. Our study provided observational evidence on aerosols' effects on plant transpiration at the leaf and canopy scales. The reduced transpiration and stronger stomatal control indicated that plant water use becomes more conservative under elevated aerosol concentrations.
Association of haemoglobin levels in the first trimester and at 26–30 weeks with fetal and neonatal outcomes: a secondary analysis of the Global Network for Women's and Children's Health's ASPIRIN Trial
Authors: Jessani S , Saleem S , Hoffman MK , Goudar SS , Derman RJ , Moore JL , Garces A , Figueroa L , Krebs NF , Okitawutshu J , Tshefu A , Bose CL , Mwenechanya M , Chomba E , Carlo WA , Das PK , Patel A , Hibberd PL , Esamai F , Liechty EA , Bucher S , Nolen TL , Koso‐Thomas M , Miodovnik M , McClure EM , Goldenberg RL
Published: February 2021

Objective

Limited data are available from low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) on the relationship of haemoglobin levels to adverse outcomes at different times during pregnancy. We evaluated the association of haemoglobin levels in nulliparous women at two times in pregnancy with pregnancy outcomes.

Design

ASPIRIN Trial data were used to study the association between haemoglobin levels measured at 6+0–13+6 weeks and 26+0–30+0 weeks of gestation with fetal and neonatal outcomes.

Setting

Obstetric care facilities in Pakistan, India, Kenya, Zambia, The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Guatemala.

Population

A total of 11 976 pregnant women.

Methods

Generalised linear models were used to obtain adjusted relative risks and 95% CI for adverse outcomes.

Main outcome measures

Preterm birth, stillbirth, neonatal death, small for gestational age (SGA) and birthweight <2500 g.

Results

The mean haemoglobin levels at 6+0–13+6 weeks and at 26–30 weeks of gestation were 116 g/l (SD 17) and 107 g/l (SD 15), respectively. In general, pregnancy outcomes were better with increasing haemoglobin. At 6+0–13+6 weeks of gestation, stillbirth, SGA and birthweight <2500 g, were significantly associated with haemoglobin of 70–89 g/l compared with haemoglobin of 110–129 g/l The relationships of adverse pregnancy outcomes with various haemoglobin levels were more marked at 26–30 weeks of gestation.

Conclusions

Both lower and some higher haemoglobin concentrations are associated with adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes at 6+0–13+6 weeks and at 26–30 weeks of gestation, although the relationship with low haemoglobin levels appears more consistent and generally stronger.

Tweetable abstract

Both lower and some higher haemoglobin concentrations were associated with adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes at 6–13 weeks and 26–30 weeks of gestation.
Disruption of egg‐specific protein causes female sterility inBombyx mori
Authors: Xu Xia , Wang Yao‐Hui , Liu Zu‐Lian , Wang Yong‐Qiang , He Lin , Li Kai , Huang Yong‐Ping
Published: February 2021

Yolk proteins are the main source of nutrients during embryonic and early larval development in oviparous animals. Therefore, vitellogenesis is crucial for reproduction. The silkworm,Bombyx mori, is a model lepidopteran insect in which there are three yolk proteins: vitellin, 30‐kDa protein, and egg‐specific protein (Esp). In this study, we explored the gene function ofEspthrough transgenic clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR) / CRISPR‐associated protein 9 technology‐mediated mutations in the silkworm. We found thatEspmutation resulted in female sterility but had no effect on male fertility. Female mutants could lay eggs after mating, but the eggs were smaller and lighter colored than those laid by wild‐type females. The most important finding is that the eggs laid by female mutants did not hatch. Furthermore, we observed stable inheritance of female sterility caused byEspmutation through successive generations. Thus,Espencodes a yolk protein that is crucial for female reproductive success and is a potential target for pest control.
Preoperative consolidation‐to‐tumor ratio is effective in the prediction of lymph node metastasis in patients with pulmonary ground‐glass component nodules
Authors: Chen Yi‐Chung , Lin Yi‐Han , Chien Hung‐Che , Hsu Po‐Kuei , Hung Jung‐Jyh , Huang Chien‐Sheng , Hsieh Chih‐Cheng , Hsu Wen‐Hu , Hsu Han‐Shui
Published: February 2021

Background

Preoperative positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is recommended as a guideline for staging of lung cancer. However, for patients with pulmonary ground‐glass opacity (GGO) nodules who are supposed to have a relatively low risk of incidence of lymphatic metastasis, it remains uncertain whether PET/CT is more effective than consolidation‐to‐tumor ratio (CTR) in the prediction of regional lymphatic metastasis.

Methods

The data on patients who underwent surgery for lung cancer from 2011 to 2016 were collected retrospectively, which included CTR, results of PET/CT, and pathological characteristics. The patients who had undergone preoperative PET/CT were identified to find the risk factors for lymphatic metastasis. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and multiple logistic regression was utilized to clarify the predictive value of CTR and main tumor maximal standardized uptake value (SUVmax).

Results

Among 217 patients who had PET/CT before lobectomy, chest computed tomography revealed that 75 patients had CTR greater than 62%. The patients with lymphatic metastasis were shown to have higher CTR and higher main tumor SUVmax. Multiple logistic regression showed that younger age (<60 years), higher main tumor SUVmax on PET/CT, and greater CTR were independent predictive factors for lymphatic metastasis. The area under the ROC curve was comparable, 0.817 for CTR, and 0.816 for main tumor SUVmax.

Conclusions

The present study revealed that CTR was not inferior to main tumor SUVmax considering the predictive power for lymphatic metastasis preoperatively in lung cancer patients with a GGO component. PET/CT might not be necessary preoperatively in selected patients.
Reducing tree density affects interactions between trees and atmospheric Tillandsia species (Bromeliaceae)
Authors: Chaves Cleber J. N. , Rossatto Davi R.
Published: February 2021

Disruptions in species interactions derived from forest fragmentation are a major driver of biodiversity declines. Atmospheric bromeliads, a group of extreme epiphytes in the Tillandsia genus, often thrive in anthropogenic landscapes, spreading beyond their usual distribution. Here, we investigate how distinct tree densities affect the interactions between tree traits and patterns of atmospheric bromeliad host selection, abundance, functional composition, and canopy distribution. We measured a total of 3130 atmospheric bromeliads hosted on 140 of the 384 trees sampled and found a greater contribution of tree traits on their host selection and abundance at low tree density. We observed that distinct tree traits were significantly correlated to atmospheric bromeliad traits under low and high tree densities, with most correlations positive under low tree density and negative under high tree density. Additionally, the canopy distribution of individuals under high tree density was less scattered and slightly restricted to outer canopy layers. Shading levels seem to be a strong environmental filter on atmospheric bromeliad fitness, limiting their spread in forests with high tree densities; however, major reductions in tree density may allow atmospheric bromeliads to spread to other canopy layers and increase their abundance, mainly boosted by traits related to tree size. Our results suggest that reductions in tree densities of forests may alter ecological interactions among plants, which could lead to the spread of opportunistic species.
Landscape monitoring reveals initial trends in occupancy and activity of bats in multiple‐use forests
Authors: Law Bradley , Gonsalves Leroy , McConville Anna , Tap Patrick
Published: February 2021

Biodiversity monitoring is recognised as a key action for ecologically sustainable land use, but there are few examples of landscape programmes. We outline the first five years of biodiversity monitoring focusing on insectivorous bats in low rainfall, multiple‐use forests and woodlands of the Pilliga, Australia. Using ultrasonic sampling over multiple nights, both on‐ and off‐tracks, we identify annual trends in bat activity and occupancy and environmental covariates. Trends differed depending on whether occupancy or bat activity was the response variable. Site occupancy was almost 100% and remained stable and/or did not decline for most species nor diversity over the monitoring period, suggesting little variation in bat populations. In comparison, total activity was initially very high (567 passes night−1 on‐track) and then declined by up to 40% in the following three years, but then fully recovered in the fifth year. This general pattern was evident both on‐ and off‐tracks for most taxa, though activity was three times greater on‐ than off‐track, highlighting the importance of these distinct habitat features for bats. Multivariate state‐space (MARSS) models predicted, unexpectedly, that high winter rainfall prior to our surveys was negatively related to activity for many taxa. In contrast, disturbance from timber harvesting or fire had weak or no identifiable effects on trends in activity for most taxa. One exception was Chalinolobus picatus (threatened), whose occupancy off‐tracks was negatively related to the extent of recent (<5 years) fire and to harvesting, though at the landscape scale, occupancy remained stable. This result, together with patterns for other bat taxa, suggests that disturbance effects were short‐lived/dispersed and/or environmental mitigations were effective at maintaining bat populations at a landscape level. Annual monitoring highlighted annual variation in activity and its implications when setting a baseline for monitoring. We also discuss modifications to future monitoring effort, based on the existing five years of data.
Expression of WW domain‐containing oxidoreductase and its clinical implication in endometrial adenocarcinoma patients with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Shen Yan , Gao Leilei , Jiang Shanshan , Liu Jinwei , Cheng Weiye , Shou Huafeng
Published: February 2021

Aim

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is tightly associated with the oncogenesis and prognosis of endometrioid adenocarcinoma, but the underlying mechanism is unclear. Here, we studied the relation between the expression status of WW domain‐containing oxidoreductase (WWOX) and the clinicopathological features of endometrioid adenocarcinoma patients with MS.

Methods

Fifty‐seven samples of endometrial adenocarcinoma were chosen for detection of expression level of WWOX. Overall survival (OS) time of these patients was analyzed by univariate and multivariate analysis. Survival analysis of patients with different WWOX expression levels from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was also performed.

Results

The WWOX expression is significantly higher in MS group than that in non‐MS group (36.4% vs 65.7%, P = .03). WWOX was closely related to MS (P = .03) and muscle invasion of tumor cells (P = .04), but age, tumor grade, status of lymphatic metastasis, and FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) stage were not significantly different between the two WWOX expression status. Univariate analysis revealed that lymphatic metastasis (P = .023) and lower stage (P = .006) are significantly associated with OS. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that stage was an independent prognostic factor for OS (hazard ratio = 0.197; 95% CI, 0.043‐0.896). Downregulation of WWOX was statistically associated with OS in patients from TCGA database (P = .04).

Conclusion

WWOX may play an important role in the progression of endometrial cancer with MS.
Breast cancer treatment‐related arm lymphoedema and morbidity: A 6‐year experience in an Australian tertiary breast centre
Authors: Huang Yang Yang , Toh Pei Yinn , Hunt Catherine , Lin Joshua Tzi Wei , Kamyab Roshi , Ponniah Ananda Kallyani
Published: February 2021

Aim

Recent surgical de‐escalation of the axilla in breast cancer management has led to reduced number of immediate and delayed axillary lymph node dissections (ALND) after sentinel lymph node biopsies (SLNBs). We aim to assess the postoperative impact of SLNB versus immediate and delayed ALND on arm lymphoedema and morbidity.

Methods

A retrospective analysis from a prospectively collected institutional database was performed reviewing the rates of lymphoedema and arm morbidity in terms of shoulder restriction and patient‐reported functional deficit in women undergoing axillary surgery for breast cancer between 2013 and 2018.

Results

In this 776 patient cohort (564 SLNBs, 192 immediate ALNDs and 20 delayed ALNDs), at 12 months after surgery, the results are as follows: lymphoedema rate: SLNB (4.62%), immediate ALND (19.51%), delayed ALND (15.00%); axillary cording rate: SLNB (3.08%), immediate ALND (10.65%), delayed ALND (5.00%); new functional deficit: SLNB (5.58%), immediate ALND (13.66%) and delayed ALND (20%); pain SLNB (14.02%), immediate ALND (15.97%), delayed ALND (17.65%); shoulder flexion/abduction restrictions: SLNB (8.14%/5.14%), immediate ALND (16.45%/15.79%) and delayed ALND (17.65%/20.00%). ALND was associated with increased risk of developing lymphoedema, shoulder dysfunction and development of more than one morbidity. No statistically significant difference in lymphoedema and morbidity outcome was observed between immediate and delayed ALND.

Conclusion

Immediate and delayed ALND have comparable outcomes, but both are associated with increased postoperative arm lymphoedema and morbidity outcomes compared to SLNB alone. Preoperative appropriate selection of patients for axillary surgery treatment may improve lymphoedema outcomes in breast cancer patients.
Diurnal QT analysis in patients with sotalol after cardioversion of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Lenhoff Hanna , Darpö Börje , Page Alex , Couderc Jean Philippe , Tornvall Per , Frick Mats
Published: February 2021

Background

The risk of ventricular arrhythmias in patients on QT prolonging drugs is indicated to be increased early after cardioversion (CV) of atrial fibrillation (AF) to sinus rhythm (SR). Sotalol, used to prevent AF relapse, prolongs cardiac repolarization and corrected QT interval (QTc). A pronounced QTc prolongation is an established marker of pro‐arrhythmias. Our objective was to use novel technique to quantify and evaluate the diurnal variation of the QTc interval after elective CV to SR in patients on sotalol or metoprolol.

Methods

Fifty patients underwent twelve‐lead Holter recording for 24 hr after elective CV for persistent AF. All patients had the highest tolerable stable dose of sotalol (n = 27) or metoprolol (n = 23). Measurements of QT and RR intervals were performed on all valid beats.

Results

A clear diurnal variation of both HR and QTc was seen in both groups, more pronounced in patients on sotalol, where a high percentage of heartbeats with QTc >500 ms was observed, especially at night. Six patients (22%) on sotalol but none on metoprolol had >20% of all heart beats within the 24‐hour recording with QTc >500 ms.

Conclusion

Twenty‐four‐hour Holter recordings with QT‐measurement immediately after CV demonstrated that one in five patients on sotalol had >20% of all heart beats with prolonged QTc >500 ms, especially during night‐time. The QTc diurnal variation was retained in patients on β‐blockade or a potent class III anti‐arrhythmic drug with β‐blocking properties.
Alternating and gradually changing narrow QRS complex tachycardia in a patient with heart failure: What is the mechanism?
Authors: Chen Songwen , Zhang Feilong , Wei Yong , Lu Xiaofeng , Zhou Genqing , Liu Shaowen
Published: February 2021

A 23‐year‐old woman with palpitations for 9 years was referred for catheter ablation. ECG showed an irregular narrow complex tachycardia with alternating and gradually changing QRS morphologies after alternating and changing RR intervals, with a clear pattern of 2 alternating QRS complexes. An electrophysiology study was performed and confirmed that the mechanism of tachycardia was an automatic left‐side His‐Purkinje system (HPS) ventricular tachycardia. The gradually changing type‐2 QRS complexes was the conduction delayed in the left anterior fascicle due to the short RR interval or the short left‐side HH interval. Nine months after the index electrophysiology study, the patient encounter a progressive of heart failure with increased heart rate to 130‐150 bpm during rest. Radiofrequency ablation was performed at the upper‐septum for eliminating the tachycardia and resulted in complete atrioventricular block. A permanent pacemaker with left bundle branch pacing was implanted. Twelve months after the ablation, the enlarged heart shrink to normal with normal left ventricular ejection fraction. In conclusion, careful interpretation of the ECG can identify the sinus P waves followed by irregular narrow complexes, thus avoiding misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment. Unifocal HPS tachycardia could present with alternating and gradually changing narrow QRS complexes tachycardia and lead to tachycardia cardiomyopathy. Electrophysiology study and catheter ablation were useful for the diagnosis and treatment of HPS tachycardia but with high risk of atrioventricular block. However, successfully elimination the tachycardia would resolve and reverse the enlarged heart and deteriorative heart function.
Spatial investigation of technological choice and recycling in copper‐base metallurgy of the South Caucasus
Authors: Ho J. W. I. , Erb‐Satullo N. L.
Published: February 2021

Recent research has brought the prolific bronze industry of Bronze Age Colchis (modern western Georgia) into focus, but many aspects are still poorly understood. This study synthesizes and reinterprets legacy Cu alloy compositional data to investigate technological choices and spatial patterning. It reveals a massive injection of fresh copper into the system during the Late Bronze–Early Iron Age, and a high degree of selectivity in the alloys used for different objects, with colour being as important as hardness in determining these choices. Spatial analyses show significant geographical variability in alloying practices, which map onto topographical zones in unexpected ways. We also explore recycling practices and argue that the term encompasses a range of different reuse activities, which may be employed under differing economic conditions. Finally, the data suggest relatively extensive primary alloying of tin and copper in the Late Bronze and Early Iron Ages, which further substantiates the speculation that some local tin sources were exploited.
Development of a cognitive bias modification intervention for anxiety disorders in primary care
Authors: Weisberg Risa B. , Gonsalves Meghan A. , Ramadurai Ramya , Braham Howard , Fuchs Cara , Beard Courtney
Published: February 2021

Objectives

There is a great need for low‐intensity, scalable treatments in primary care, where most anxious patients first present for treatment. We describe Stage IA treatment development and a Stage IB feasibility trial of cognitive bias modification (CBM) for transdiagnostic anxiety in primary care.

Methods

The online intervention, Mental Habits, comprised eight sessions of a personalized CBM targeting attention and interpretation biases. Coaches assisted patients in using the website, monitored progress via a dashboard, and shared information with primary care providers. We evaluated Mental Habits in an open trial (N = 14) and a randomized controlled trial (RCT) (N = 40) in primary care patients with anxiety disorders.

Results

We compared results to a priori benchmarks of clinically meaningful outcomes. In the open trial, Mental Habits met feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy benchmarks. In the pilot RCT, there was greater dropout at one study site which ultimately closed. In the intent‐to‐treat analyses, Mental Habits met the benchmark for self‐report, but not the interview measure of anxiety. Symptom Tracking did not meet the benchmark for self‐report or interview measures of anxiety. In per‐protocol analyses, Mental Habits exceeded the benchmark for both self‐report and interview measures, whereas Symptom Tracking met the benchmark for self‐report. Interpretation bias improved in the Mental Habits group, but not in Symptom Tracking. No effects were observed for attention bias.

Conclusion

The online CBM intervention demonstrated good acceptability and, when delivered at a stable primary care clinic, preliminary effectiveness in primary care. A larger RCT is warranted to test effectiveness.

Practitioner points

A personalized, transdiagnostic Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM) intervention for anxiety in primary care is acceptable to primary care patients with social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and/or panic disorder /agoraphobia.

With training and supervision from licensed mental health clinicians, bachelor’s‐level coaches can assist primary care patients to self‐administer CBM.

Offering a low‐intensity, self‐directed anxiety intervention in primary care can greatly expand the reach of anxiety treatment, with minimal need for additional resources.

Interpretation bias may be an important clinical target for primary care patients with anxiety.
Bystander responses to bias‐based bullying and retaliation: Is retaliation perceived as more acceptable than bias‐based bullying?
Authors: Gönültaş Seçil , Mulvey Kelly Lynn
Published: February 2021

The current study examined intergroup‐related and social‐cognitive correlates of bystanders' acceptability judgements and their responses to bias‐based bullying of immigrant peers and to possible retaliation for the bullying. Participants included 179 immigrant‐origin and non‐immigrant‐origin youth (Mage = 13.23; SD = 1.55; 79 immigrant‐origin youth). Participants' bystander judgements and responses to bullying and retaliation were examined via a hypothetical scenario. Further, participants' intergroup attitudes towards immigrants and their social‐cognitive skills were evaluated. ANOVA results showed that immigrant‐origin youth judged bullying as less acceptable and retaliation as more acceptable compared to non‐immigrant‐origin youth, documenting that group membership is related to adolescents' judgements. A similar pattern was observed in active bystander responses. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that immigration background, intergroup process in the context of immigration, and social‐cognitive skills predict bystander responses to bullying and retaliation. This study provides important implications for anti‐bullying intervention programmes to overcome the negative consequences of retaliation in the escalation of aggressive behaviours.
External validation of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre and Briganti nomograms for the prediction of lymph node involvement of prostate cancer using clinical stage assessed by magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Soeterik Timo F.W. , Hueting Tom A. , Israel Bas , van Melick Harm H.E. , Dijksman Lea M. , Stomps Saskia , Biesma Douwe H. , Koffijberg Hendrik , Sedelaar Michiel , Witjes J. Alfred , van Basten Jean‐Paul A.
Published: February 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of using clinical stage assessed by multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) on the performance of two established nomograms for the prediction of pelvic lymph node involvement (LNI) in patients with prostate cancer.

Patients and Methods

Patients undergoing robot‐assisted extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) from 2015 to 2019 at three teaching hospitals were retrospectively evaluated. Risk of LNI was calculated four times for each patient, using clinical tumour stage (T‐stage) assessed by digital rectal examination (DRE) and by mpMRI, in the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre (MSKCC; 2018) and Briganti (2012) nomograms. Discrimination (area under the curve [AUC]), calibration, and the net benefit of these four strategies were assessed and compared.

Results

A total of 1062 patients were included, of whom 301 (28%) had histologically proven LNI. Using DRE T‐stage resulted in AUCs of 0.71 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.70–0.72) for the MSKCC and 0.73 (95% CI 0.72–0.74) for the Briganti nomogram. Using mpMRI T‐stage, the AUCs were 0.72 (95% CI 0.71–0.73) for the MSKCC and 0.75 (95% CI 0.74–0.76) for the Briganti nomogram. mpMRI T‐stage resulted in equivalent calibration compared with DRE T‐stage. Combined use of mpMRI T‐stage and the Briganti 2012 nomogram was shown to be superior in terms of AUC, calibration, and net benefit. Use of mpMRI T‐stage led to increased sensitivity for the detection of LNI for all risk thresholds in both models, countered by a decreased specificity, compared with DRE T‐stage.

Conclusion

T‐stage as assessed by mpMRI is an appropriate alternative for T‐stage assessed by DRE to determine nomogram‐based risk of LNI in patients with prostate cancer, and was associated with improved model performance of both the MSKCC 2018 and Briganti 2012 nomograms.
Distinct and dementia‐related synaptopathy in the hippocampus after military blast exposures
Authors: Almeida Michael F. , Piehler Thuvan , Carstens Kelly E. , Zhao Meilan , Samadi Mahsa , Dudek Serena M. , Norton Christopher J. , Parisian Catherine M. , Farizatto Karen L.G. , Bahr Ben A.
Published: February 2021

Explosive shockwaves, and other types of blast exposures, are linked to injuries commonly associated with military service and to an increased risk for the onset of dementia. Neurological complications following a blast injury, including depression, anxiety, and memory problems, often persist even when brain damage is undetectable. Here, hippocampal explants were exposed to the explosive 1,3,5‐trinitro‐1,3,5‐triazinane (RDX) to identify indicators of blast‐induced changes within important neuronal circuitries. Highly controlled detonations of small, 1.7‐gram RDX spherical charges reduced synaptic markers known to be downregulated in cognitive disorders, but without causing overt neuronal loss or astroglial responses. In the absence of neuromorphological alterations, levels of synaptophysin, GluA1, and synapsin IIb were significantly diminished within 24 hr, and these synaptic components exhibited progressive reductions following blast exposure as compared to their stable maintenance in control explants. In contrast, labeling of the synapsin IIa isoform remained unaltered, while neuropilar staining of other markers decreased, including synapsin IIb and neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) isoforms, along with evidence of NCAM proteolytic breakdown. NCAM180 displayed a distinct decline after the RDX blasts, whereas NCAM140 and NCAM120 exhibited smaller or no deterioration, respectively. Interestingly, the extent of synaptic marker reduction correlated with AT8‐positive tau levels, with tau pathology stochastically found in CA1 neurons and their dendrites. The decline in synaptic components was also reflected in the size of evoked postsynaptic currents recorded from CA1 pyramidals, which exhibited a severe and selective reduction. The identified indicators of blast‐mediated synaptopathy point to the need for early biomarkers of explosives altering synaptic integrity with links to dementia risk, to advance strategies for both cognitive health and therapeutic monitoring.
Heterozygous NOTCH1 deletion associated with variable congenital heart defects
Authors: Roifman Maian , Chung Brian Hon Yin , Reid Diane Myles , Teitelbaum Ronni , Martin Nicole , Nield Lynne E. , Thompson Megan , Shannon Patrick , Chitayat David
Published: February 2021

Pathogenic heterozygous variants in the NOTCH1 gene are known to be associated with both left and right‐sided congenital cardiac anomalies with strikingly incomplete penetrance and variable phenotypic expressivity. De novo NOTCH1 whole gene deletion has been reported rarely in the literature and its association with cardiac defects is less well established. Here, we report four cases of NOTCH1 gene deletion from two families associated with a spectrum of congenital heart defects from bicuspid aortic valve to complex cardiac anomalies. This is the first description of a familial NOTCH1 deletion, showing apparently high penetrance, which may be unique to this mechanism of disease. Immunohistochemical staining of cardiac tissue demonstrated reduced levels of NOTCH1 expression in both the left and right ventricular outflow tracts. These cases suggest that haploinsufficiency caused by NOTCH1 gene deletion is associated with both mild and severe cardiac defects, similar to those caused by pathogenic variants in the gene, but with apparently higher, if not complete, penetrance.
Immunohistochemical characteristics of lateral bone augmentation using different biomaterials around chronic peri‐implant dehiscence defects: An experimental in vivo study
Authors: Cha Jae‐Kook , Pla Rafael , Vignoletti Fabio , Jung Ui‐Won , Sanz‐Esporrin Javier , Sanz Mariano
Published: February 2021

Aim

To investigate the immunohistochemical characteristics of a highly porous synthetic bone substitute and a cross‐linked collagen membrane for guided bone regeneration.

Methods

Three experimental groups were randomly allocated at chronic peri‐implant dehiscence defect in 8 beagle dogs: (i) biphasic calcium phosphate covered by a cross‐linked collagen membrane (test group), (ii) deproteinized bovine bone mineral covered by a natural collagen membrane (positive control) and (iii) no treatment (negative control). After 8 and 16 weeks of submerged healing, dissected tissue blocks were processed for immunohistochemical analysis. Seven antibodies were used to detect the remaining osteogenic and angiogenic potential, and quantitative immunohistochemical analysis was done by software.

Results

The antigen reactivity of alkaline phosphatase was significantly higher in the test group compared to the positive and negative controls, and it maintained till 16 weeks. The intensity of osteocalcin was significantly higher in the positive control at 8 weeks than the other groups, but significantly decreased at 16 weeks and no difference was found between the groups. A significant large number of TRAP‐positive cells were observed in the test group mainly around the remaining particles at 16 weeks. The angiogenic potential was comparable between the groups showing no difference in the expression of transglutaminase II and vascular endothelial growth factor.

Conclusion

Guided bone regeneration combining a highly porous biphasic calcium phosphate synthetic biomaterial with a crosslinked collagen membrane, resulted in extended osteogenic potential when compared to the combination of deproteinized bovine bone mineral and a native collagen membrane.
Intra‐osseous heat generation during implant bed preparation with static navigation: Multi‐factor in vitro study
Authors: Gargallo‐Albiol Jordi , Salomó‐Coll Oscar , Lozano‐Carrascal Naroa , Wang Hom‐Lay , Hernández‐Alfaro Federico
Published: February 2021

Objectives

To compare the intra‐osseous temperature reached during bone drilling for dental implant placement using open versus closed static surgical guides and evaluate the influence of bone density, osteotomy drilling depth, and irrigation fluid temperature.

Material and methods

960 osteotomies were performed with 2 mm pilot drills in 16 solid rigid polyurethane foam blocks. Two main variables were considered: the guide type (open or closed guide) and bone density (hard (D1) or soft (D4). The blocks were divided into four groups according to the type of surgical template and bone density as follows: group one: closed guide and hard bone; group two: open guide and hard bone; group three: closed guide and soft bone; and group four: open guide and soft bone. A combination of different experimental conditions was used, including different bone osteotomy depths (6 or 13 mm) and irrigation fluid temperatures (5°C or 21°C).

Results

The highest mean temperature was found in group one (28.29 ± 4.02°C). In the soft bone groups (three and four), the mean maximum temperature decreased compared to groups one and two (dense bone) and was always higher with closed guides (23.38 ± 1.92°C) compared to open guides (21.97 ± 1.22°C) (p < .001). The osteotomy depth and irrigation fluid temperature also significantly influenced the bone temperature (p < .001), especially in hard bone.

Conclusions

The greatest heat generation was observed in high‐density bone. The final intra‐bone temperature was about 1°C higher with a closed static surgical guide than with an open guide. The heat generation in osteotomy sites was substantially reduced by cooling the irrigation fluid to 5°C.
Modeling heritability of temperamental differences, stress reactivity, and risk for anxiety and depression: Relevance to research domain criteria (RDoC)
Authors: Clinton Sarah M. , Shupe Elizabeth A. , Glover Matthew E. , Unroe Keaton A. , McCoy Chelsea R. , Cohen Joshua L. , Kerman Ilan A.
Published: February 2021

Animal models provide important tools to study biological and environmental factors that shape brain function and behavior. These models can be effectively leveraged by drawing on concepts from the National Institute of Mental Health Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) Initiative, which aims to delineate molecular pathways and neural circuits that underpin behavioral anomalies that transcend psychiatric conditions. To study factors that contribute to individual differences in emotionality and stress reactivity, our laboratory utilized Sprague–Dawley rats that were selectively bred for differences in novelty exploration. Selective breeding for low versus high locomotor response to novelty produced rat lines that differ in behavioral domains relevant to anxiety and depression, particularly the RDoC Negative Valence domains, including acute threat, potential threat, and loss. Bred Low Novelty Responder (LR) rats, relative to their High Responder (HR) counterparts, display high levels of behavioral inhibition, conditioned and unconditioned fear, avoidance, passive stress coping, anhedonia, and psychomotor retardation. The HR/LR traits are heritable, emerge in the first weeks of life, and appear to be driven by alterations in the developing amygdala and hippocampus. Epigenomic and transcriptomic profiling in the developing and adult HR/LR brain suggest that DNA methylation and microRNAs, as well as differences in monoaminergic transmission (dopamine and serotonin in particular), contribute to their distinct behavioral phenotypes. This work exemplifies ways that animal models such as the HR/LR rats can be effectively used to study neural and molecular factors driving emotional behavior, which may pave the way toward improved understanding the neurobiological mechanisms involved in emotional disorders.
Horses vaccinated with live attenuated intranasal strangles vaccine seroconvert to SEQ2190 and SeM
Authors: Boyle Ashley G. , Mitchell Catriona , Stefanovski Darko , Waller Andrew S.
Published: February 2021

Background

The dual antigen iELISA uses two Streptococcus equi subsp equi surface protein antigens composed of N‐terminal portions of SEQ2190 (Antigen A) and SeM (Antigen C). It is currently used to identify animals exposed to S. equi which have developed an immune response to the target antigens.

Objectives

To determine the usefulness of the dual antigen iELISA in a population of horses vaccinated with Pinnacle IN. We hypothesised that horses vaccinated for strangles with a live attenuated, non‐encapsulated SeM‐2 strain of S. equi, would seroconvert when tested 5 weeks later by the dual antigen iELISA.

Study design

Prospective case‐control study.

Methods

Three separate serum samples were obtained from 26 client‐owned horses vaccinated annually with Pinnacle® IN and 26 university‐owned (non‐vaccinates): at annual strangles vaccination (S1), 5‐week post‐vaccination (S2) from vaccinates, and a third (S3) (at 10 weeks) from vaccinates who received a booster. Seropositivity was defined as an OD450 nm value ≥0.5 for one or both antigens. Mixed‐effects ordered logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with a suspect seropositive and seropositive value on the combined Antigen A and Antigen C iELISA. Post hoc pairwise comparisons of linear predictive margins were used to assess the differences in OD450 at a specific time between Antigens A and C.

Results

Nineteen of 25 (76%) vaccinates were seropositive at S2 compared to 1 of 26 (4%) non‐vaccinates. When adjusted for sample number, vaccinates were more likely to be seropositive or suspect than non‐vaccinates (OR 14; P = .02, 95% CI 1.62‐122.03). The OD450 value was significantly larger for Antigen C than Antigen A for vaccinates (P < .001; 95% CI 0.13‐0.26) when normalised by age, sex and breed.

Main limitations

Guttural pouch sampling for S. equi in seroconverted horses was unavailable.

Conclusions

With a high rate of seroconversion to both antigens, the use of the dual antigen iELISA is not recommended in populations vaccinated with Pinnacle® IN.
Microbial succession and dynamics in meromictic Mono Lake, California
Authors: Phillips Alexandra A. , Speth Daan R. , Miller Laurence G. , Wang Xingchen T. , Wu Fenfang , Medeiros Patricia M. , Monteverde Danielle R. , Osburn Magdalena R. , Berelson William M. , Betts Hannah L. , Wijker Reto S. , Mullin Sean W. , Johnson Hope A. , Orphan Victoria J. , Fischer Woodward W. ,   Geobiology Course 2017,   Geobiology Course 2018, Sessions Alex L.
Published: February 2021

Mono Lake is a closed‐basin, hypersaline, alkaline lake located in Eastern Sierra Nevada, California, that is dominated by microbial life. This unique ecosystem offers a natural laboratory for probing microbial community responses to environmental change. In 2017, a heavy snowpack and subsequent runoff led Mono Lake to transition from annually mixed (monomictic) to indefinitely stratified (meromictic). We followed microbial succession during this limnological shift, establishing a two‐year (2017–2018) water‐column time series of geochemical and microbiological data. Following meromictic conditions, anoxia persisted below the chemocline and reduced compounds such as sulfide and ammonium increased in concentration from near 0 to ~400 and ~150 µM, respectively, throughout 2018. We observed significant microbial succession, with trends varying by water depth. In the epilimnion (above the chemocline), aerobic heterotrophs were displaced by phototrophic genera when a large bloom of cyanobacteria appeared in fall 2018. Bacteria in the hypolimnion (below the chemocline) had a delayed, but systematic, response reflecting colonization by sediment “seed bank” communities. Phototrophic sulfide‐oxidizing bacteria appeared first in summer 2017, followed by microbes associated with anaerobic fermentation in spring 2018, and eventually sulfate‐reducing taxa by fall 2018. This slow shift indicated that multi‐year meromixis was required to establish a sulfate‐reducing community in Mono Lake, although sulfide oxidizers thrive throughout mixing regimes. The abundant green alga Picocystis remained the dominant primary producer during the meromixis event, abundant throughout the water column including in the hypolimnion despite the absence of light and prevalence of sulfide. Our study adds to the growing literature describing microbial resistance and resilience during lake mixing events related to climatic events and environmental change.
Combating ecosystem collapse from the tropics to the Antarctic
Authors: Bergstrom Dana M. , Wienecke Barbara C. , van den Hoff John , Hughes Lesley , Lindenmayer David B. , Ainsworth Tracy D. , Baker Christopher M. , Bland Lucie , Bowman David M. J. S. , Brooks Shaun T. , Canadell Josep G. , Constable Andrew J. , Dafforn Katherine A. , Depledge Michael H. , Dickson Catherine R. , Duke Norman C. , Helmstedt Kate J. , Holz Andrés , Johnson Craig R. , McGeoch Melodie A. , Melbourne‐Thomas Jessica , Morgain Rachel , Nicholson Emily , Prober Suzanne M. , Raymond Ben , Ritchie Euan G. , Robinson Sharon A. , Ruthrof Katinka X. , Setterfield Samantha A. , Sgrò Carla M. , Stark Jonathan S. , Travers Toby , Trebilco Rowan , Ward Delphi F. L. , Wardle Glenda M. , Williams Kristen J. , Zylstra Phillip J. , Shaw Justine D.
Published: February 2021

Globally, collapse of ecosystems—potentially irreversible change to ecosystem structure, composition and function—imperils biodiversity, human health and well‐being. We examine the current state and recent trajectories of 19 ecosystems, spanning 58° of latitude across 7.7 M km2, from Australia's coral reefs to terrestrial Antarctica. Pressures from global climate change and regional human impacts, occurring as chronic ‘presses’ and/or acute ‘pulses’, drive ecosystem collapse. Ecosystem responses to 5–17 pressures were categorised as four collapse profiles—abrupt, smooth, stepped and fluctuating. The manifestation of widespread ecosystem collapse is a stark warning of the necessity to take action. We present a three‐step assessment and management framework (3As Pathway Awareness, Anticipation and Action) to aid strategic and effective mitigation to alleviate further degradation to help secure our future.