bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of extendable helix leads for conduction system pacing: Differences in lead handling and performance lead design impacts conduction system pacing
Authors: Tan Eugene S. J. , Lee Jie‐Ying , Boey Elaine , Soh Rodney , Sim Ming G. , Yeo Wee‐Tiong , Seow Swee‐Chong , Kojodjojo Pipin
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Pacing leads with extendable‐retractable helix (EHL) are alternatives to fixed‐helix leads (FHL) for conduction system pacing (CSP), but data on handling characteristics are limited. This study evaluated a dual‐center experience of lead handling and performance during CSP.

Methods and Results

Consecutive patients with His‐bundle pacing (HBP) or left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) were evaluated for the primary outcome of lead failure, defined as structural damage to the lead necessitating lead replacement. Differences in pacing characteristics were compared. Among 280 patients (mean age 74 ± 11 years, 44% male, 50% LBBP), 246 (88%) received FHL and 34 (12%) received EHL. Of 299 leads used, lead failure occurred more frequently among patients with EHL than FHL (29% vs. 2%, p < .001), regardless of CSP modality. Majority of damaged leads (89%) in the form of helix deformation were successfully removed, with failure occurring in only two patients, both EHL, leading to helix fracture and retention within the septal myocardium. EHL, compared to FHL, was associated with 25‐fold increased odds of lead failure (odds ratio: 25.21, 95% confidence interval: 7.35–86.51), and persisted after adjustment in turn for age, pacing modality and indication. CSP implant success rates did not differ by lead design (FHL 80% vs. EHL 71%, p = .18), with similar pacing thresholds at implant and follow‐up.

Conclusion

Helix deformation and fracture were more frequent with EHL in CSP despite similar implant success. These findings have significant implications for lead selection during CSP and raises concerns about the long‐term extractability of EHL in CSP.
Solasonine induces apoptosis of the SGC‐7901 human gastric cancer cell line in vitro via the mitochondria‐mediated pathway
Authors: Li Tian‐Chuan , Chen Nai‐Jie , Chen Yun‐Ying , He Bing‐Jing , Zhou Zhi‐Feng
Published: May 2022

Solasonine, a steroidal glycoalkaloid isolated from the herbal plant Solanum nigrum Linn., has shown active against multiple human cancers; however, there is little knowledge on the activity of solasonine against gastric cancer until now. This study aimed to examine the effect of solasonine on the biological behaviours of human gastric cancer SGC‐7901 cells. The results showed that solasonine suppressed SGC‐7901 cell proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner. Solasonine treatment mainly induced the cell cycle arrest at G2 phase in SGC‐7901 cells. Treatment with solasonine resulted in significant down‐regulation of Bcl‐2 and Caspase‐3 protein expression and reduced Bax and Bcl‐xL protein expression in SGC‐7901 cells. Solasonine shows a comparable inhibitory effect on the proliferation of human gastric cancer SGC‐7901 cells with cisplatin, and solasonine induces of SGC‐7901 cell apoptosis through triggering the endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway and the mitochondrial pathway. Our data indicate that solasonine may be a promising agent for the treatment of gastric cancer.
Commentary: Suicide risk is high, but often overlooked, in autistic spectrum disorder populations
Authors: Curtis Luke
Published: May 2022

Self‐Harm Significantly Higher in Populations with ADHD, Anxiety, ASD, Depression, and Eating Disorders. I appreciated your recent paper on the large and well‐matched studies on nonfatal self‐harm and suicide among adolescents in the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink (Cybulski et al. 2021). This large study involved 56,008 self‐harm cases and 1,399,356 controls aged 10–19 years and reported that many diagnoses were associated with significantly higher rates of self‐harm. Compared to controls, the risk of self‐harm was significantly higher in attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (OR 3.3, 95% CI 3.1–3.4), anxiety disorder (OR 3.8, 95% CI 3.7–3.9), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (OR 2.4, 95% CI 2.3–2.6), depression (OR 7.9, 95% CI 7.8–8.2), and eating disorders (OR 3.1, 95% CI 3.0–3.2) (Cybulski et al. 2021).
Substitution of telemedicine for clinic visit during the COVID‐19 pandemic of 2020: Comparison of telemedicine and clinic visit
Authors: Onishi Yukiko , Ichihashi Rieko , Yoshida Yoko , Tahara Tazu , Kikuchi Takako , Kobori Toshiko , Kubota Tetsuya , Iwamoto Masahiko , Hamano Shoko , Kasuga Masato
Published: May 2022

Aims/Introduction

The purpose of this retrospective observational cohort study was to compare outpatient diabetes care and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in 2020 with 2019, and to compare the glucose‐lowering effect of telemedicine and clinic visits during the state of emergency in Japan declared from 7 April to 25 May (inter‐period) 2020.

Materials and Methods

A total of 13 weeks before and after the inter‐period were designated as the pre‐period and post‐period, respectively. The number of study participants who had clinic visits during the pre‐period and the post‐period were 3,333 in 2020 and 3,608 in 2019. Propensity score matching was carried out to compare the effect of telemedicine and clinic visits on diabetes control in 2020 among diabetes patients with insufficient glucose control (HbA1c ≥7%). The primary outcome was post‐period HbA1c.

Results

The major difference between 2020 and 2019 was the use of telemedicine in 2020. After adjustment for age, sex, diabetes type, pre‐period HbA1c and pre‐period body mass index, glycemic control evaluated by HbA1c was significantly worse in the post‐period of 2020 than 2019. In the propensity score‐matched 618 pairs, the clinic visit group had significantly better post‐period HbA1c than the telemedicine group (7.5% vs 7.4%, P = 0.023).

Conclusions

Glycemic control was slightly, but significantly, worse in 2020 than 2019. Although telemedicine significantly improved glycemic control during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in 2020, clinic visits improved HbA1c significantly more. The substitution of telemedicine for clinic visits appears to be a viable option under emergency conditions, but clinic visits might be a better option when possible.
Re‐description of the loach species Homatula variegata (Dabry de Thiersant, 1874) (Pisces: Nemacheilidae) from the middle Huang‐He basin in Shaanxi Province of Central China
Authors: Liu Yi , Cao Liang , Zhang E.
Published: May 2022

Despite the wide recognition of Homatula variegata (Dabry de Thiersant, 1874) as a valid Chinese loach, its type locality, identity and distribution still remain contentious. A molecular phylogenetic analysis based on the mitochondrial cytochrome b (cyt b) gene for samples from all known range of the species showed that three distinct species are involved. Morphological comparisons, coupled with examination on the types, confirmed that H. variegata s. str. is characterized by having a sparsely scaled predorsal body, an adipose crest along the dorsal midline of the caudal peduncle that extends forward to the vertical through the posterior end of the anal‐fin base and a broadly rounded caudal fin. It is found merely in the Wei‐He of the Huang‐He basin. The Jinsha‐Jiang population, previously misidentified as H. variegata, represents a distinct species, for which Homatula oxygnathra is the available name. Homatula laxiclathra, endemic to the Wei‐He, is also a valid species distinct from H. variegata.
Reduction of scour around circular piers using collars
Authors: Pandey Manish , Pu Jaan H. , Pourshahbaz Hanif , Khan Mohammad Amir
Published: May 2022

River dynamics and sediment transport play an important role in river bed morphology. Building a bridge pier along the river alters the cross‐section of the river and causes the change in flow processes. These changes are mainly responsible for pier scour. In this paper, the usage of collars to reduce scour around circular piers has been investigated. The collars with different diameters and depth positions have been studied using previous data and additional data collected in the present study to assess their effectiveness in reducing scour. Using a wide range of measured data, an empirical equation to compute the maximum scour depth around the circular piers in the presence of collars has been proposed. The proposed equation has been validated and proven to be applicable to a wide range of pier layouts. It has been found that the maximum efficiency can be achieved by fixing the collar at bed level and adopting a collar diameter 1.5–2.5 times of pier diameter.
Association between staff turnover and nursing home quality – evidence from payroll‐based journal data
Authors: Zheng Qing , Williams Christianna S. , Shulman Evan T. , White Alan J.
Published: May 2022

Background

Staff turnover is considered an important indicator of nursing home quality. We used auditable staffing data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Payroll‐Based Journal (PBJ) system to calculate turnover measures for nurse staff and administrators and examined the relationship between turnover and nursing home quality.

Methods

Our analyses included data from 13,631 nursing homes that submitted complete staffing data through PBJ for 2018Q3 – 2019Q4. We identified turnover based on gaps in days worked by eligible employees, allowing us to calculate turnover measures that do not depend on termination dates reported by nursing homes, which are not captured in PBJ.

We linked staff turnover measures to nursing home quality measures and star ratings published on CMS' Care Compare website in January 2020 and examined the relationship between turnover and quality of care. We used ordinary least squared models for continuous outcomes and ordered logit models for categorical outcomes, controlling for facility, and county characteristics.

Results

Mean annual turnover rates were about 44% for RNs and 46% for total nurse staff. On average, there was one administrator leaving each nursing home during this period although about half of nursing homes had no administrator turnover.

Turnover rates varied greatly across nursing homes. For‐profit and larger nursing homes had higher turnover rates. Higher turnover was consistently associated with lower quality of care.

Conclusions

Our study highlights the importance of staff turnover due to its relationship to nursing home quality. In January 2022, CMS started posting turnover measures on Care Compare to allow consumers to use this information in their assessment of nursing home quality and to motivate nursing homes to implement innovative strategies to retain staff. While these actions are challenging, they are nonetheless warranted for improving the quality of care for nursing home residents.
UBA domain protein SUF1 interacts with NatA‐complex subunit NAA15 to regulate thermotolerance in Arabidopsis
Authors: Song Ze‐Ting , Chen Xiao‐Jie , Luo Ling , Yu Feifei , Liu Jian‐Xiang , Han Jia‐Jia
Published: May 2022

During recovery from heat stress, plants clear away the heat‐stress‐induced misfolded proteins through the ubiquitin‐proteasome system (UPS). In the UPS, the recognition of substrate proteins by E3 ligase can be regulated by the N‐terminal acetyltransferase A (NatA) complex. Here, we determined that Arabidopsis STRESS‐RELATED UBIQUITIN‐ASSOCIATED‐DOMAIN PROTEIN FACTOR 1 (SUF1) interacts with the NatA complex core subunit NAA15 and positively regulates NAA15. The suf1 and naa15 mutants are sensitive to heat stress; the NatA substrate NSNC1 is stabilized in suf1 mutant plants during heat stress recovery. Therefore, SUF1 and its interactor NAA15 play important roles in basal thermotolerance in Arabidopsis.
Editorial: Exciting developments in neurochemistry research and publishing
Authors: Lawrence Andrew J. , Prado Marco A.
Published: May 2022

In this editorial, we are happy to connect with our community to explain the changes introduced to the Journal of Neurochemistry over the last year and provide some insights into new developments and exciting opportunities. We anticipate these developments, which are strongly guided to increase transparency and support early career researchers, will increase the value of the Journal of Neurochemistry for the authors and readers. Ultimately, we hope to improve the author experience with the Journal of Neurochemistry and continue to be the leading venue for fast dissemination of exciting new research focusing on how molecules, cells and circuits regulate the nervous system in health and disease.
Quality Disclosure and Product Selection*
Authors: Song Tianle
Published: May 2022

If entry requires accommodation by retailers, an incumbent manufacturer may transfer profits to retailers to maintain his dominant position. We show that such an incentive to transfer will induce a high‐quality entrant to disclose quality information prior to entry. Interestingly, retailers will accommodate not only a high‐quality entrant but also an intermediate‐quality entrant who chooses not to disclose. If disclosure is mandatory, however, only a high‐quality entrant can enter the market. Therefore, mandatory disclosure may be excessive in terms of consumer welfare.
The Effect of Finishing and Polishing with Proprietary Vs Interchanged Polishing Kits on the Surface Roughness of Different Ceramic Materials
Authors: Irusa Karina F , Albouy Jean‐Pierre , Cook Ryan , Amaya‐Pajares Silvia , Donovan Terence
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the surface roughness of glazed and polished monolithic ceramic materials and to use this as a baseline for comparison after adjustment and polishing with both the recommended kit for the specific materials as well as interchanged polishing kits.

Material and methods

Flat ceramic specimens (n = 150) were fabricated from IPS ZirCAD Prime, IPS E.max, and Vitabloc Mark II. The specimens were adjusted and polished using either the proprietary polishing kit for the material or interchanged kits. The surface roughness was objectively assessed using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and profilometer. Subjective assessment of surface finish was performed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Gravimetric weight loss of each sample was measured before and after polishing using a digital microscale. The mean surface roughness and standard deviation was calculated for each ceramic‐ polisher pair. A factorial ANOVA was used to compare the mean surface roughness values in nanometers between multiple groups (α = 0.05). The subjective results from the SEM were reported as descriptive statistics

Results

The zirconia polishing system produced surfaces with the lowest surface roughness regardless of the ceramic material. The polisher‐ceramic combination was found to have a statistically significant effect on both Ra and RMS values when the AFM was used (p = 0.039 and 0.010, respectively).

Conclusion

The zirconia polishing system resulted in the lowest surface roughness values regardless of ceramic materials tested. The zirconia polishing system also did not result in significant gravimetric weight loss regardless of the ceramic material used.
The risk factors of preterm birth: A multicentre case–control survey in China in 2018
Authors: Zhang Yi‐Jie , Shen Jieru , Lin Sam Bill , Lu Chengqiu , Jiang Hong , Sun Yi , Cheng Xiuyong , Wang Huaiyan , Cui Shudong , Liu Xiuqin , Huang Lie , Lin Xinzhu , Zhao Guoying , Yang Ling , Chen Chao
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To investigate the risk profile of preterm birth (PTB) in 2018 in China.

Method

A prospective multicentre case–control study was conducted in 15 hospitals located in seven provinces throughout three geographical areas (the Eastern, South‐Central and North‐Western regions) in China. A total of 3147 preterm (<37+0 weeks) and 3147 term (37+0 to 41+6 weeks) live‐birth mothers were included. Designed questionnaires were used to investigate maternal and fetal information. We calculated multivariable logistic regression and population attributable risk (PAR).

Results

Iatrogenic PTB accounted for 48.1% of preterm mothers. Multivariable analysis showed PTB was significantly associated with six categories of maternal and fetal factors, adverse life‐style and psychological conditions (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.063, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.601–2.657) had the highest PAR% (60.1%). High school and below education level (PAR% = 25.8%), living in town or village (PAR% = 24.4%), low pregnant weight gain (PAR% = 16.8%), hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (aOR: 5.010, 95% CI: 4.039–6.216, PAR% = 15.3%), placental abnormality (aOR: 4.242, 95% CI: 3.454–5.211, PAR% = 14.1%) and multiple pregnancy (aOR: 10.990, 95% CI: 7.743–15.599, PAR% = 11.8%) were significantly associated with PTB with high PAR% value.

Conclusion

The main risk factors for PTB in China were placental abnormality, hypertensive disorders in pregnancy and multiple pregnancy. Adverse life‐style and psychological conditions and socio‐economic disadvantage had high public health significance.
Melatonin modulates Nrf2 activity to protect porcine pre‐pubertal Sertoli cells from the abnormal H2O2 generation and reductive stress effects of cadmium
Authors: Bartolini Desirée , Arato Iva , Mancuso Francesca , Giustarini Daniela , Bellucci Catia , Vacca Carmine , Aglietti Maria Chiara , Stabile Anna Maria , Rossi Ranieri , Cruciani Gabriele , Rende Mario , Calafiore Riccardo , Luca Giovanni , Galli Francesco
Published: May 2022

Melatonin (MLT) is a cytoprotective agent holding potential to prevent cadmium (Cd) toxicity and its impact in testicular function and fertility. In this study, we explored such potential in porcine pre‐pubertal Sertoli cells (SCs). Cd toxicity resulted in impaired SC viability and function, abnormal cellular H2O2 generation and efflux, and induction of reductive stress by the upregulation of Nrf2 expression and activity, cystine uptake and glutathione biosynthesis, glutathione‐S‐transferase P (GSTP) expression, and protein glutathionylation inhibition. Cd toxicity also stimulated the activity of cellular kinases (MAPK‐ERK1/2 and Akt) and NFkB transcription factor, and cJun expression was increased. MLT produced a potent cytoprotective effect when co‐administered with Cd to SCs; its efficacy and the molecular mechanism behind its cytoprotective function varied according to Cd concentrations. However, a significant restoration of cell viability and function, and of H2O2 levels, was observed both at 5 and 10 μM Cd. Mechanistically, these effects of MLT were associated with a significant reduction of the Cd‐induced activation of Nrf2 and GSTP expression at all Cd concentrations. CAT and MAPK‐ERK1/2 activity upregulation was associated with these effects at 5 μM Cd, whereas glutathione biosynthesis and efflux were involved at 10 μM Cd together with an increased expression of the cystine transporter xCT, of cJun and Akt and NFkB activity. MLT protects SCs from Cd toxicity reducing its H2O2 generation and reductive stress effects. A reduced activity of Nrf2 and the modulation of other molecular players of MLT signaling, provide a mechanistic rational for the cytoprotective effect of this molecule in SCs.
Student‐t stochastic volatility model with composite likelihood EM‐algorithm
Authors: Sundararajan Raanju R. , Barreto‐Souza Wagner
Published: May 2022

A new robust stochastic volatility (SV) model having Student‐ marginals is proposed. Our process is defined through a linear normal regression model driven by a latent gamma process that controls temporal dependence. This gamma process is strategically chosen to enable us to find an explicit expression for the pairwise joint density function of the Student‐tresponse process. With this at hand, we propose a composite likelihood (CL) based inference for our model, which can be straightforwardly implemented with a low computational cost. This is a remarkable feature of our Student‐tprocess over existing SV models in the literature that involve computationally heavy algorithms for estimating parameters. Aiming at a precise estimation of the parameters related to the latent process, we propose a CL expectation–maximization algorithm and discuss a bootstrap approach to obtain standard errors. The finite‐sample performance of our CL methods is assessed through Monte Carlo simulations. The methodology is motivated by an empirical application in the financial market. We analyze the relationship, across multiple time periods, between various US sector Exchange‐Traded Funds returns and individual companies' stock price returns based on our novel Student‐tmodel. This relationship is further utilized in selecting optimal financial portfolios. Generalizations of the Student‐tSV model are also proposed.
Bacterial urinary tract infection and subclinical bacteriuria in dogs receiving antineoplastic chemotherapy
Authors: Harrer Julia , Fejös Csilla , Zablotski Yury , Hirschberger Johannes , Wolf Georg , Rieger Alexandra , Mayer Christian , Dorsch Roswitha
Published: May 2022

Background

Immunosuppressive treatment with glucocorticoids and cyclosporine increases the risk for positive urine cultures (PUCs) in dogs.

Objective

To investigate the prevalence and incidence of PUC in dogs diagnosed with cancer and treated with antineoplastic chemotherapy while distinguishing between subclinical bacteriuria (SB) and urinary tract infection (UTI).

Animals

Forty‐six client‐owned dogs with nonurogenital cancer treated with antineoplastic chemotherapy.

Methods

Prospective observational longitudinal clinical study. Dogs in which a urine culture was performed before the start of and at least once during antineoplastic chemotherapy were included. A McNemar's test was used to investigate if the prevalence of PUC increased during antineoplastic chemotherapy. Positive urine cultures were categorized into SB and UTI and multiple PUCs from the same dog and category were grouped together as 1 episode of PUC.

Results

Urine culture was positive in 21/185 urine samples in 8/46 dogs. Antineoplastic chemotherapy did not influence the prevalence of PUC (P = 1.00), which was 11% (5/46 dogs; 95% confidence interval: 5‐23%) before the start of and 13% (6/46 dogs; 95% confidence interval: 6‐26%) during antineoplastic chemotherapy. Eight dogs had 10 episodes of PUC; 7/10 episodes were classified as SB, and in 3/10 episodes UTI (chronic prostatitis, prostatic abscess, and emphysematous cystitis) was diagnosed. Escherichia coli was the most common pathogen, isolated in 9/10 episodes.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

We did not find evidence that antineoplastic chemotherapy is a major predisposing factor for the development of PUC. Most dogs with PUC had SB.
“I Do Not Have to Hurt My Body Anymore”: Reproductive Chronicity and Sterilization as Ambivalent Care in Rural North India
Authors: Lukšaitė Eva
Published: May 2022

Drawing on 18 months of ethnographic fieldwork in rural Rajasthan, India, I examine women's narratives of chronic reproductive suffering and the practices they employed to relieve it. Cumulative effects of adverse and ordinary reproductive events and exhaustion from caregiving were often seen as reproductive suffering, while sterilization emerged as an act of care toward women's ever‐weakening bodies. Sterilization has been an integral part of the often coercive, incentive‐ and target‐driven population control program in India. Rural women, however, described sterilization not as a form of violence but as an act of care, despite its ambivalence. In the context of reproductive chronicity—a persistent reproductive suffering recurring alongside reproductive events, available care options, relations within which these options are located, and structural conditions that shape women's lives—care and suffering are intimately and ambiguously intertwined.
The gibberellic acid derived from the plastidial MEP pathway is involved in the accumulation of Bamboo mosaic virus
Authors: Huang Ying‐Ping , Chen I‐Hsuan , Kao Yu‐Shun , Hsu Yau‐Heiu , Tsai Ching‐Hsiu
Published: May 2022

A gene upregulated in Nicotiana benthamiana after Bamboo mosaic virus (BaMV) infection was revealed as 1‐deoxy‐d‐xylulose‐5‐phosphate reductoisomerase (NbDXR). DXR is the key enzyme in the 2‐C‐methyl‐d‐erythritol‐4‐phosphate (MEP) pathway that catalyzes the conversion of 1‐deoxy‐d‐xylulose 5‐phosphate to 2‐C‐methyl‐d‐erythritol‐4‐phosphate.

Knockdown and overexpression of NbDXR followed by BaMV inoculation revealed that NbDXR is involved in BaMV accumulation. Treating leaves with fosmidomycin, an inhibitor of DXR function, reduced BaMV accumulation. Subcellular localization confirmed that DXR is a chloroplast‐localized protein by confocal microscopy. Furthermore, knockdown of 1‐hydroxy‐2‐methyl‐2‐(E)‐butenyl‐4‐diphosphate reductase, one of the enzymes in the MEP pathway, also reduced BaMV accumulation. The accumulation of BaMV increased significantly in protoplasts treated with isopentenyl pyrophosphate. Thus, the metabolites of the MEP pathway could be involved in BaMV infection.

To identify the critical components involved in BaMV accumulation, we knocked down the crucial enzyme of isoprenoid synthesis, NbGGPPS11 or NbGGPPS2. Only NbGGPPS2 was involved in BaMV infection. The geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) synthesized by NbGGPPS2 is known for gibberellin synthesis. We confirmed this result by supplying gibberellic acid exogenously on leaves, which increased BaMV accumulation.

The de novo synthesis of gibberellic acid could assist BaMV accumulation.
DNA methylation can alter CRISPR/Cas9 editing frequency and DNA repair outcome in a target‐specific manner
Authors: Přibylová Adéla , Fischer Lukáš , Pyott Douglas E. , Bassett Andrew , Molnar Attila
Published: May 2022

The impact of epigenetic modifications on the efficacy of CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated double‐stranded DNA breaks and subsequent DNA repair is poorly understood, especially in plants.

In this study, we investigated the effect of the level of cytosine methylation on the outcome of CRISPR/Cas9‐induced mutations at multiple Cas9 target sites in Nicotiana benthamiana leaf cells using next‐generation sequencing.

We found that high levels of promoter methylation, but not gene‐body methylation, decreased the frequency of Cas9‐mediated mutations. DNA methylation also influenced the ratio of insertions and deletions and potentially the type of Cas9 cleavage in a target‐specific manner. In addition, we detected an over‐representation of deletion events governed by a single 5′‐terminal nucleotide at Cas9‐induced DNA breaks.

Our findings suggest that DNA methylation can indirectly impair Cas9 activity and subsequent DNA repair, probably through changes in the local chromatin structure. In addition to the well described Cas9‐induced blunt‐end double‐stranded DNA breaks, we provide evidence for Cas9‐mediated staggered DNA cuts in plant cells. Both types of cut may direct microhomology‐mediated DNA repair by a novel, as yet undescribed, mechanism.
Plant carbohydrate storage: intra‐ and inter‐specific trade‐offs reveal a major life history trait
Authors: Blumstein Meghan , Sala Anna , Weston David J. , Holbrook Noel Michelle , Hopkins Robin
Published: May 2022

Trade‐offs among carbon sinks constrain how trees physiologically, ecologically, and evolutionarily respond to their environments. These trade‐offs typically fall along a productive growth to conservative, bet‐hedging continuum. How nonstructural carbohydrates (NSCs) stored in living tree cells (known as carbon stores) fit in this trade‐off framework is not well understood.

We examined relationships between growth and storage using both within species genetic variation from a common garden, and across species phenotypic variation from a global database.

We demonstrate that storage is actively accumulated, as part of a conservative, bet‐hedging life history strategy. Storage accumulates at the expense of growth both within and across species. Within the speciesPopulus trichocarpa, genetic trade‐offs show that for each additional unit of wood area growth (in cm2 yr−1) that genotypes invest in, they lose 1.2 to 1.7 units (mg g−1NSC) of storage. Across species, for each additional unit of area growth (in cm2 yr−1), trees, on average, reduce their storage by 9.5% in stems and 10.4% in roots.

Our findings impact our understanding of basic plant biology, fit storage into a widely used growth‐survival trade‐off spectrum describing life history strategy, and challenges the assumptions of passive storage made in ecosystem models today.
Treatment of Congenital Radioulnar Synostosis Using a Free Vascularized Fascia Lata Graft
Authors: Bai Fan , Chen Shanlin , Liu Lu , Tong Dedi , Li Pengcheng , Rong Yanbo , Wu Jingheng , Liu Bo , Yang Yong , Wang Shufeng
Published: May 2022

Objective

To describe the modified mobilization surgery technique that uses a free vascularized fascia lata graft as the interposition graft, and to evaluate the outcome of this procedure in treating congenital radioulnar synostosis (CRUS).

Methods

Eleven patients (eight boys and three girls with an average age of 6.0 years) were treated using this procedure between 2012 and 2017 in our institution. Five bilateral cases (four left forearms and one right forearm were treated), and six unilateral cases (three left forearms and three right forearms) were included. All 11 cases were treated with mobilization procedure with free vascularized fascia lata as the interposition graft, and were followed‐up for an average of 2.2 years (range, 2–4 years). The parental satisfaction, postoperative ankylosis at proximal radioulnar joint, and active range of forearm rotation motion (measured by physical examination) were evaluated at the last follow‐up.

Results

The average preoperative fixed pronation angle was 67.3° (range, 20°–90°). Ipsilateral thumb hypoplasia was noted in one case, and cleft palate and bilateral thumb hypoplasia were noted in one case; none of the patients had a family history of congenital radioulnar synostosis. Pronation and supination splints were used 3 days after the operation and were worn every night for 4–6 months postoperatively. Active and passive rehabilitation for elbow flexion and forearm rotation was initiated 4 weeks postoperatively. All patients were followed up for at least 2 years (average, 26 months; range, 24–48 months). The average forearm pronation range was 39° (range, 20°–60°), and the average forearm supination range was 33.2° (range, 10°–60°) at the latest follow‐up. Re‐ankylosis occurred in one case. An osseous bridge developed between the radius and ulna at the osteotomy site in one case. Radial nerve paralysis developed in two cases and spontaneously resolved 2 months later. Plate breakage was noted in one case 9 weeks postoperatively; however, union was achieved 7 months later.

Conclusion

Mobilization of proximal radioulnar synostosis using a free vascularized fascia lata graft as the interposition graft may prevent re‐ankylosis and restore the forearm rotation function, making it a good option for the surgical treatment of CRUS.
O‐Arm Navigated Cervical Pedicle Screw Fixation in the Treatment of Lower Cervical Fracture‐Dislocation
Authors: Zhang Kai , Chen Hao , Chen Kangwu , Yang Peng , Yang Huilin , Mao Haiqing
Published: May 2022

Objective

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of cervical pedicle screw (CPS) placement with O‐arm navigation in the treatment of lower cervical fracture‐dislocation.

Methods

A retrospective clinical study was performed involving 42 consecutive patients with lower cervical spine fracture‐dislocation who underwent CPS fixation surgery with O‐arm navigation (CPS group) or received conventional lateral mass screw (LMS) fixation surgery (LMS group) between August 2015 and August 2019. Accuracy of CPS position was evaluated by postoperative CT. The clinical parameters including preoperative and final follow‐up Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score and American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale, preoperative Sub‐axial Injury Classification (SLIC) score, number of fixation segments, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, injury mechanism, injury location, surgical complications were also assessed between the two groups.

Results

In LMS group, the preoperative SLIC score was 7.5 ± 0.9, ASIA score improvement was 0.8 ± 0.5, JOA score improvement was 3.0 ± 1.8, mean operation time was 204 ± 89 min, intraoperative blood loss was 311 ± 127 ml. In CPS group, the preoperative SLIC score was 7.3 ± 1.2, ASIA score improvement was 0.9 ± 0.5, JOA score improvement was 3.2 ± 2.4, mean operation time is 241 ± 85 min, intraoperative blood loss is about 327 ± 120 ml. There was no significant difference in terms of above clinical parameters between the two groups (P > 0.05), the fixation segments in CPS group (3.5 ± 1.1) were less than that in LMS group (4.2 ± 0.7) (P = 0.037). The accuracy of CPS insertion was evaluated based on postoperative CT. Of all the 118 CPSs, 83 (70.3%) were defined as Grade 0; 27 (22.9%) as Grade 1; eight (6.8%) as Grade 2; and none as Grade 3. CPS malposition rate in this study was 6.8%. In this study, there was no direct intraoperative or postoperative complication caused by CPS or LMS insertion. All the operations were successfully completed in two groups. One of the patients in LMS group presented cerebrospinal fluid leak caused by bone fragment broken of the dural sac, which led to delayed incision healing. CPS group and LMS group both had two patients who suffered pulmonary infection after surgery. A total of 78.6% of the patients showed evidence of neurologic recovery. Satisfactory reduction was achieved in all cases and maintained throughout the follow‐up duration.

Conclusion

In the treatment of lower cervical spine fracture‐dislocation, cervical pedicle screw insertion with O‐arm navigation is a safe and effective method for posterior fixation.
Osseointegrated Metallic Implants for Finger Amputees: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Bregoli Chiara , Biffi Carlo Alberto , Morellato Kavin , Gruppioni Emanuele , Primavera Matteo , Rampoldi Michele , Lando Mario , Adani Roberto , Tuissi Ausonio
Published: May 2022

Digital trauma amputations and digital agenesis strongly affect the functionality and aesthetic appearance of the hand. Autologous reconstruction is the gold standard of treatment. Unfortunately, microsurgical options and transplantation procedures are not possible for patients who present contraindications or refuse to undergo transplantation from the toe (e.g. toe‐to‐thumb transplantation). To address these issues, osseointegrated finger prostheses are a promising alternative. The functional assessments registered during follow‐up confirmed the promising outcomes of osseointegrated prostheses in the treatment of hand finger amputees. This review outlines (a) a detailed analysis of osseointegrated finger metallic components of the implants, (b) the surgical procedures suggested in the literature, and (c) the functional assessments and promising outcomes that demonstrate the potential of these medical osseointegrated devices in the treatment of finger amputees.
Validation of CT‐Based Three‐Dimensional Preoperative Planning in Comparison with Acetate Templating for Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Chen Xi , Wang Yiou , Ma Ruichen , Peng Huiming , Zhu Shibai , Li Shanni , Li Songlin , Dong Xiying , Qiu Guixing , Qian Wenwei
Published: May 2022

Objective

This study aims to compare the accuracy of CT‐based preoperative planning with that of acetate templating in predicting implant size, neck length, and neck cut length, and to evaluate the reproducibility of the two methods.

Methods

This prospective study was conducted between August 2020 and March 2021. Patients who underwent elective primary total hip arthroplasty by a single surgeon were assessed for eligibility. The included patients underwent both acetate templating and CT‐based planning by two observers after the operation. Each observer conducted both acetate templating and CT‐based planning twice for each case. The outcome measures included the following: (1) the accuracy of surgical planning in predicting implant size, calcar length, and neck length, which was defined as the difference between the planned size and length and the actual size and length; (2) reproducibility of the two planning techniques, which were assessed by inter‐observer and intra‐observer reliability analysis; (3) the influence of potential confounding factors on planning accuracy, which was evaluated using generalized estimating equations.

Results

A total of 57 cases were included in the study. CT‐based planning was more accurate than acetate templating for predicting cup size (93% vs 79%, p < 0.001) and stem size (93% vs 75%, p < 0.001). When assessed by mean absolute difference, the comparison between acetate templating and CT‐based planning was 4.28 mm vs 3.74 mm (p = 0.122) in predicting neck length and 3.05 mm vs 2.93 mm (p = 0.731) in predicting neck cut length. In the inter‐observer reliability analysis, an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.790 was achieved for predicting cup size, and an ICC of 0.966 was achieved for predicting stem size using CT‐based planning. In terms of intra‐observer reliability, Observer 1 achieved an ICC of 0.803 for predicting cup size and 0.965 for predicting stem size in CT‐based planning. Observer 2 achieved ICC values of 0.727 and 0.959 for predicting cup and stem sizes, respectively. The average planning time was 6.48 ± 1.55 min for CT‐based planning and 6.12 ± 1.40 min for acetate templating (p = 0.015).

Conclusion

The CT‐based planning system is more accurate than acetate templating for predicting implant size and has good reproducibility in total hip arthroplasty.
Changes in positive and negative voice content in cognitive‐behavioural therapy for distressing voices
Authors: Brand Rachel M. , Badcock Johanna C. , Paulik Georgie
Published: May 2022

Objective

People who experience distressing voices frequently report negative (e.g. abusive or threatening) voice content and this is a key driver of distress. There has also been recognition that positive (e.g. reassuring, or guiding) voice content contributes to better outcomes. Despite this, voice content has been neglected as a standalone outcome in evaluations of psychological therapies for distressing voices. We aimed to examine whether a modular cognitive‐behavioural therapy (CBT) intervention for voices led to changes in negative and positive voice content.

Design/Methods

In a naturalistic, uncontrolled pre‐ and post‐ service evaluation study, 32 clients at an outpatient psychology service for distressing voices received eight sessions of CBT for distressing voices and completed self‐report measures of negative and positive voice content at pre‐, mid‐ and post‐ therapy.

Results

There was no significant change in positive voice content. There was no significant change in negative voice content from pre‐ to post‐therapy; however, there was a significant change in negative voice content between mid and post‐treatment in which the cognitive therapy component was delivered. The CBT treatment was also associated with significant changes in routinely reported outcomes of voice‐related distress and voice severity.

Conclusions

The cognitive component of CBT for distressing voices may be associated with changes in negative, but not positive, voice content. There may be benefit to enhancing these effects by developing treatments targeting specific processes involved in negative and positive voice content and further exploring efficacy in well‐powered, controlled trials with more comprehensive measures of voice content.
Application of developmental regulators to improve in planta or in vitro transformation in plants
Authors: Lian Zhaoyuan , Nguyen Chi Dinh , Liu Li , Wang Guiluan , Chen Jianjun , Wang Songhu , Yi Ganjun , Wilson Sandra , Ozias‐Akins Peggy , Gong Haijun , Huo Heqiang
Published: May 2022

Plant genetic transformation is a crucial step for applying biotechnology such as genome editing to basic and applied plant science research. Its success primarily relies on the efficiency of gene delivery into plant cells and the ability to regenerate transgenic plants. In this study, we have examined the effect of several developmental regulators (DRs), including PLETHORA (PLT5), WOUND INDUCED DEDIFFERENTIATION 1 (WIND1), ENHANCED SHOOT REGENERATION (ESR1), WUSHEL (WUS) and a fusion of WUS and BABY‐BOOM (WUS‐P2A‐BBM), on in planta transformation through injection of Agrobacterium tumefaciens in snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus). The results showed that PLT5, WIND1 and WUS promoted in planta transformation of snapdragons. An additional test of these three DRs on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) further demonstrated that the highest in planta transformation efficiency was observed from PLT5. PLT5 promoted calli formation and regeneration of transformed shoots at the wound positions of aerial stems, and the transgene was stably inherited to the next generation in snapdragons. Additionally, PLT5 significantly improved the shoot regeneration and transformation in two Brassica cabbage varieties (Brassica rapa) and promoted the formation of transgenic calli and somatic embryos in sweet pepper (Capsicum annum) through in vitro tissue culture. Despite some morphological alternations, viable seeds were produced from the transgenic Bok choy and snapdragons. Our results have demonstrated that manipulation of PLT5 could be an effective approach for improving in planta and in vitro transformation efficiency, and such a transformation system could be used to facilitate the application of genome editing or other plant biotechnology application in modern agriculture.
Refractory focal epithelial hyperplasia successfully treated with novel use of nano‐pulse stimulation technology
Authors: Elgash May , Bar Anna , Dhossche Julie
Published: May 2022

Focal epithelial hyperplasia (FEH), or Heck's disease, is an uncommon HPV‐related dermatosis that presents with multiple discrete papules or nodules on the lips, tongue, and gingival or oral mucosa. Treatment is often sought due to cosmesis, social stigma, and functional impairment. Treatment is challenging and a variety of treatment modalities have been attempted with varying degrees of success. This report describes the novel use of nano‐pulse stimulation in the successful treatment of recalcitrant FEH of the upper and lower vermillion lip.
Behavior change versus stability during the college‐to‐work transition: Life course and the “stickiness” of alcohol misuse at career entry
Authors: Liu Songqi , Bamberger Peter , Wang Mo , Nahum‐Shani Inbal , Larimer Mary , Bacharach Samuel B.
Published: May 2022

To what extent and under what conditions do college graduates disengage from employment‐incompatible behaviors during the college‐to‐work (C2W) transition? Drawing from the life course perspective, we proposed a model highlighting considerable stability of employment‐incompatible behaviors during initial months of organizational socialization. Our model predicted that maturing out of such behaviors, which is expected by employers and beneficial to career adjustment, would be more likely to occur given a conducive transition context. Using a large dataset tracking graduates from their last semester in college to up to approximately 1.5 years after graduation and with alcohol use as our empirical referent, we demonstrated that a pattern of high‐risk drinking behavior may remain even after the transition into full‐time employment. We further showed that lower levels of perceived cohort drinking norms and higher levels of mentoring were associated with a higher probability of maturing out, manifesting in a transition from a high‐risk drinking profile before graduation to a moderate drinking profile after starting full‐time employment. Finally, we found that maturing out was associated with lagged outcomes including lower levels of sleep problems and depression and fewer workdays lost to absenteeism, thus underscoring the consequential nature of behavior profile shifts during the C2W transition.
Transcriptomics in advancing portunid aquaculture: A systematic review
Authors: Waiho Khor , Ikhwanuddin Mhd , Afiqah‐Aleng Nor , Shu‐Chien Alexander Chong , Wang Youji , Ma Hongyu , Fazhan Hanafiah
Published: May 2022

The rapid advancement of next‐generation sequencing technologies has promoted the use of transcriptomics in non‐model organisms, including species in the aquaculture sector. Compared to that of other crustacean species, portunid crab aquaculture is impeded by the insufficient knowledge of their biological and physiological processes. This systematic review summarised the advances in transcriptomics in cultured portunid crabs using a systematic literature review methodology. The filtered transcriptome dataset comprised 66 articles from four genera: Scylla, Portunus, Callinectes and Charybdis. At the species level, Scylla paramamosain and Portunus trituberculatus were the two most studied species, highlighting their importance in the aquaculture sector. The affordable cost of RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) led to an increase in transcriptome‐related research in portunid crabs and made available a huge repertoire of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We further discussed the transcriptomic advances based on six main functional categories, that is, ‘growth and moulting’, ‘gonadal development and reproduction’, ‘nutrition metabolism’, ‘disease and immunity’, ‘toxicology and stress’ and ‘general transcriptomic profiling’. In general, transcriptomic studies of portunid crabs, specifically the DEGs and pathways allow an in‐depth understanding of the biological and physiological processes involved at different growth stages or under various conditions based on the difference in gene transcriptional activity. SNPs obtained from the transcriptome data are useful in many genetic improvement‐related downstream applications, including the construction of genetic linkage maps and as population genetic markers. Future directions, such as hybrid approaches of long‐read and common RNA‐Seq, and the incorporation of other omics were also discussed.
Expert network interaction in the European Medicines Agency
Authors: Schrama Reini
Published: May 2022

The need for supranational regulatory capacity and the drive for governmental control are two colliding forces in international governance. As a solution to this governance dilemma, European administrative networks need to simultaneously fulfill the demand for supranational institutions and maintain governmental control. The assessment of risks associated with medicines authorized on the European market is carried out by such a network of national regulators as part of the European Medicines Agency. To uncover how these double‐hatted experts navigate the opportunity structures created by supranational and intergovernmental forces, this study employs social network analysis. Developing exponential random graph models, this study tests to what extent members can act as professional experts in service of the supranational administration and to what extent national features shape interaction. The results indicate that while PRAC members are socialized as professionals in service of supranational deliberation on pharmacovigilance, intergovernmental forces do structure their interactions.