bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of a low‐intensity resistance exercise program on serum miR‐630, miR‐5703, and Fractalkine/CX3CL1 expressions in subjects with No exercise habits: A preliminary study
Authors: Hashida Ryuki , Matsuse Hiroo , Kawaguchi Takumi , Yoshio Sachiyo , Bekki Masafumi , Iwanaga Sohei , Sugimoto Takahiro , Hara Koji , Koya Shunji , Hirota Keisuke , Nakano Dan , Tsutsumi Tsubasa , Kanto Tatsuya , Torimura Takuji , Shiba Naoto
Published: May 2021

Aims

Exercise is effective for the prevention of liver cancer. Exercise exerts biological effects through the regulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) and cytokines/myokines. We aimed to investigate the effects of low‐intensity resistance exercise on serum miRNA and cytokine/myokine expressions in subjects with no exercise habits.

Methods

We enrolled seven male subjects with no exercise habits in this prospective before‐after study. All subjects performed a low‐intensity resistance exercise program (three metabolic equivalents, approximately 20 min/session). Serum miRNA expressions were evaluated using microarrays. We performed Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis of differentially expressed miRNAs before and after exercise. Serum cytokine/myokine expressions were evaluated using a multiplex panel.

Results

All subjects completed the exercise program with no adverse events. In the microarray analysis, seven miRNAs showed a significant change between before and after exercise. Of these, microRNA (miR)‐630 and miR‐5703 showed a >1.5‐fold increase (miR‐630: 40.7 vs. 69.3 signal intensity, p = 0.0133; miR‐5703: 30.7 vs. 55.9 signal intensity, p = 0.0051). KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that miR‐630‐ and miR‐5703‐related genes were enriched in 37 and 5 pathways, including transforming growth factor‐beta and Wnt signaling pathways, respectively. In the multiplex analysis, 12 cytokines/myokines showed significant alteration after exercise compared to before exercise. Of these, fractalkine/CX3CL1 showed the most significant up‐regulation by exercise (94.5 vs. 109.1 pg/ml, p = 0.0017).

Conclusions

A low‐intensity resistance exercise program was associated with upregulation of serum miR‐630, miR‐5703, and fractalkine/CX3CL1 expressions in subjects with no exercise habits. Thus, even low‐intensity exercise may alter miRNA and cytokine/myokine expressions in humans.
Xeroderma Pigmentosum group D suppresses proliferation and promotes apoptosis of HepG2 cells by downregulating ERG expression via the PPARγ pathway
Authors: He Yue , Tao Wenqiang , Shang Chao , Qi Chan , Ji Dexiang , Lu Wei , Chen Guoan
Published: May 2021

Xeroderma Pigmentosum group D (XPD) gene has been shown to suppress hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression, but its mechanism remains not fully understood. ETS‐related gene (ERG) is generally known as an oncogenic gene. This study aimed to explore whether XPD regulated HCC cell proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle by inhibiting ERG expression via the PPARγ pathway. The human hepatoma cells (HepG2) were transfected with the XPD overexpression vector (pEGFP‐N2/XPD) or empty vector (pEGFP‐N2). The PPARγ inhibitor GW9662 was used to determine whether XPD effects were mediated by activation of PPARγ pathway. Cell cycle and apoptosis were ascertained by flow cytometry, and cell viability was measured by MTT assay. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and Western blot were performed to determine the mRNA and protein levels. Overexpression of XPD significantly enhanced the expression of PPARγ and p‐PPARγ, whereas it downregulated that of ERG and cdk7. Furthermore, XPD overexpression notably inhibited proliferation, promoted apoptosis and decreased the percentage of cells in the S + G2 phase of HepG2 cells. However, these effects of XPD overexpression were abrogated by GW9662. Collectively, XPD suppresses proliferation and promotes apoptosis of HepG2 cells by downregulating ERG expression via activation of the PPARγ pathway.
Effect of Li2O substitution for Na2O on the solubility and water durability of Mo in aluminoborosilicate glass
Authors: Gu Yuxin , Liao Qilong , Wang Fu , Bin Jia , Wang Yuanlin , Xu Youli , Zhu Hanzhen , Zhou Junjie , Luo Yunlong , Zhu Yongchang
Published: May 2021

The effect of substitution of Li2O for Na2O on the solubility, crystallization of Mo in an aluminoborosilicate glass, and their aqueous durability were investigated. The results show that the substitution of Li2O for Na2O improves the depolymerization degree of the glass network by transferring part of [4]Al to [5]Al and [6]Al. When the Na2O is all replaced by Li2O, the solubility of Mo in the glass reaches 5 mol%. From the structural analysis, with the increase of the solubility of Mo in the glass, the depolymerization degree of the glass and the average modified cations field strength in the depolymerization region are also increased. After 28 days, the normalized leaching rates of Mo and B of all samples are about ~10−4 g·m−2·d−1 and ~10−3 g·m−2·d−1, respectively, and the normalized leaching rates of Mo decrease with the substitution of Li2O for Na2O. The results provide researchers and engineers with a potential way to improve the solubility of Mo in nuclear waste glasses.
Esophageal luminal temperature rise during atrial fibrillation ablation is associated with lower radiofrequency electrode distance and baseline impedance
Authors: Khoshknab Mirmilad , Kuo Ling , Zghaib Tarek , Arkles Jeffrey , Santangeli Pasquale , Marchlinski Francis E. , Han Yuchi , Desjardins Benoit , Nazarian Saman
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Esophageal injury during atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation is a life‐threatening complication. We sought to measure the association of esophageal temperature attenuation with radiofrequency (RF) electrode impedance, contact force, and distance from the esophagus.

Methods

The retrospective study cohort included 35 patients with mean age 64 ± 10 years, of whom 74.3% were male, and 40% had persistent AF. All patients had undergone preprocedural cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) followed by AF ablation with luminal esophageal temperature monitoring. Lesion locations were co‐registered with CMR image segmentations of left atrial and esophageal anatomy. Luminal esophageal temperature, time matched RF lesion data, and ablation distance from the nearest esophageal location were collected as panel data.

Results

Luminal esophageal temperature changes corresponding to 3667 distinct lesions, delivered with mean power 27.9 ± 5.5 W over a mean duration of 22.2 ± 10.5 s were analyzed. In multivariable analyses, clustered per patient, examining posterior wall lesions only, and adjusted for lesion power and duration as set by the operator, lesion distance from the esophagus (−0.003°C/mm, p < .001), and baseline impedance (−0.015°C/Ω, p < .001) were associated with changes in luminal esophageal temperature.

Conclusion

Esophageal luminal temperature rises are associated with shorter lesion distance from esophagus and lower baseline impedance during RF lesion delivery. When procedural strategy requires RF delivery near the esophagus, selection of sites with higher baseline impedance may improve safety.
Impaired blood‐brain barrier in the microbiota‐gut‐brain axis: Potential role of bipolar susceptibility gene TRANK1
Authors: Lai Jianbo , Jiang Jiajun , Zhang Peifen , Xi Caixi , Wu Lingling , Gao Xingle , Fu Yaoyang , Zhang Danhua , Chen Yiqing , Huang Huimin , Zhu Yiyi , Hu Shaohua
Published: May 2021

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a common psychiatric illness with high prevalence and disease burden. Accumulating susceptibility genes for BD have been identified in recent years. However, the exact functions of these genes remain largely unknown. Despite its high heritability, gene and environment interaction is commonly accepted as the major contributing factor to BD pathogenesis. Intestine microbiota is increasingly recognized as a critical environmental factor for human health and diseases via the microbiota‐gut‐brain axis. BD individuals showed altered diversity and compositions in the commensal microbiota. In addition to pro‐inflammatory factors, such as interleukin‐6 and tumour necrosis factor‐α, type 1 interferon signalling pathway is also modulated by specific intestinal bacterial strains. Disruption of the microbiota‐gut‐brain axis contributes to peripheral and central nervous system inflammation, which accounts for the BD aetiology. Administration of type 1 interferon can induce the expression of TRANK1, which is associated with elevated circulating biomarkers of the impaired blood‐brain barrier in BD patients. In this review, we focus on the influence of intestine microbiota on the expression of bipolar gene TRANK1 and propose that intestine microbiota‐dependent type 1 interferon signalling is sufficient to induce the over‐expression of TRANK1, consequently causing the compromise of BBB integrity and facilitating the entrance of inflammatory mediators into the brain. Activated neuroinflammation eventually contributes to the occurrence and development of BD. This review provides a new perspective on how gut microbiota participate in the pathogenesis of BD. Future studies are needed to validate these assumptions and develop new treatment targets for BD.
Infants’ neural responses to emotional faces are related to maternal anxiety
Authors: Bowman Lindsay C. , McCormick Sarah A. , Kane‐Grade Finola , Xie Wanze , Bosquet Enlow Michelle , Nelson Charles A.
Published: May 2021

Background

Postnatal maternal anxiety is common (estimates as high as 40% prevalence) and is associated with altered mother–infant interactions (e.g., reduced maternal emotional expression and engagement). Neural circuitry supporting infants’ face and emotion processing develops in their first year. Thus, early exposure to maternal anxiety may impact infants’ developing understanding of emotional displays. We examine whether maternal anxiety is associated with individual differences in typically developing infants’ neural responses to emotional faces.

Methods

One hundred and forty two mother–infant dyads were assessed when infants were 5, 7, or 12 months old. Infants’ electroencephalographic (EEG) data were recorded while passively viewing female happy, fearful, and angry faces. Three event‐related potential (ERP) components, each linked to face and emotion processing, were evaluated: NC, N290, and P400. Infant ERP amplitude was related to concurrent maternal‐report anxiety assessed with the Spielberger State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (Trait form).

Results

Greater maternal anxiety predicted more negative NC amplitude for happy and fearful faces in left and mid‐central scalp regions, beyond covarying influences of maternal depression symptoms, infant negative emotionality, and infant age.

Conclusions

Postnatal maternal anxiety is related to infants’ neural processing of emotional expressions. Infants of mothers endorsing high trait anxiety may need additional attentional resources to process happy and fearful faces (expressions less likely experienced in mother–infant interactions). Future research should investigate mechanisms underlying this association, given possibilities include experiential, genetic, and prenatal factors.
Pernicious anemia: Pathophysiology and diagnostic difficulties
Authors: Htut Thura Win , Thein Kyaw Zin , Oo Thein Hlaing
Published: May 2021

Pernicious anemia (PA) is the most common cause of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) deficiency anemia in the world. It is an autoimmune disease, comprising of salient features of autoimmune chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) and cobalamin deficiency (CD). Although the anemia was first described as pernicious, it may well be controlled with vitamin B12 replacement. The onset and progression of PA is often insidious. Alternatively, patients may have no anemic symptoms since they become acclimatized to the subtle nature of the disease. Oftentimes, there is a possibility that the underlying disease may be missed unless a full blood count (FBC) is investigated, leading to hindrance in the treatment journey. Diagnostic challenges remain tangible for many practicing clinicians, since there is lack of reliable cobalamin assays to diagnose CD as well as clinical mimics, which simulate many other hematological conditions, such as myelodysplastic syndrome, acute leukemia, sideroblastic anemias, bone marrow failure states, thrombotic microangiopathy, and thromboembolism. Moreover, prompt recognition of the symptoms of CD is also vital, because some neurologic sequalae may become irreversible despite replenishing cobalamin. Herein, we discuss a literature review on the pathophysiology, challenging clinical presentations and diagnostic difficulties of PA. Since the cobalamin replacement therapy for PA is straightforward, it will not be discussed in this review.
First combined resistance to Hessian fly and Sunn pest identified in synthetic hexaploid wheat
Authors: Sabraoui A. , Emebiri L. , Tadesse W. , Ogbonnaya F.C. , El Fakhouri K. , El Bouhssini M.
Published: May 2021

Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say), and Sunn pest, Eurygaster integriceps (Puton), are the two most damaging insect pests of wheat in North Africa, West and Central Asia. Host plant resistance is the most environmental friendly, cost‐effective and practical means of controlling insect pests. Twenty synthetic hexaploid wheat lines selected as resistant to Syrian Sunn pest in 2010 were screened for resistance to Moroccan Hessian fly biotype in 2016. The Hessian fly screening was carried out in standard greenhouse flats using a randomized complete block design with three replications, with susceptible and resistant checks in every test flat. The results showed that three synthetic hexaploid wheat lines exhibited resistance to both Moroccan Hessian fly biotype and Syrian Sunn pest. This is the first record of combined resistance to these two pests in wheat. Mapping populations using these sources of resistance are being developed using double haploid techniques for subsequent genetic characterization and identification of linked molecular markers for marker assisted selection.
Geographic variation in influenza vaccination among U.S. nursing home residents: A national study
Authors: Silva Joe B. B. , Bosco Elliott , Riester Melissa R. , McConeghy Kevin W. , Moyo Patience , van Aalst Robertus , Bardenheier Barbara H. , Gravenstein Stefan , Baier Rosa , Loiacono Matthew M. , Chit Ayman , Zullo Andrew R.
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Estimates of influenza vaccine use are not available at the county level for U.S. nursing home (NH) residents but are critically necessary to guide the implementation of quality improvement programs aimed at increasing vaccination. Furthermore, estimates that account for differences in resident characteristics between counties are unavailable. We estimated risk‐standardized vaccination rates (RSVRs) among short‐ and long‐stay NH residents by U.S. county and identified drivers of geographic variation.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study utilizing 100% of 2013–2015 fee‐for‐service Medicare claims, Minimum Data Set assessments, Certification and Survey Provider Enhanced Reports, and Long‐Term Care: Facts on Care in the U.S. We separately evaluated short‐stay (<100 days) and long‐stay (≥100 days) residents aged 65 and older across the 2013–2014 and 2014–2015 influenza seasons. We estimated RSVRs via hierarchical logistic regression adjusting for 32 resident‐level covariates. We then used multivariable linear regression models to assess associations between county‐level NHs predictors and RSVRs.

Results

The study cohort consisted of 2,817,217 residents in 14,658 NHs across 2798 counties. Short‐stay residents had lower RSVRs than long‐stay residents (2013–2014: median [interquartile range], 69.6% [62.8–74.5] vs 84.0% [80.8–86.4]), and there was wide variation within each population (range, 11.4–89.8 vs 49.1–92.6). Several modifiable facility‐level characteristics were associated with increased RSVRs, including higher registered nurse to total nurse ratio and higher total staffing for licensed practical nurses, speech‐language pathologists, and social workers. Characteristics associated with lower RSVRs included higher percentage of residents restrained, with a pressure ulcer, and NH‐level hospitalizations per resident‐year.

Conclusions

Substantial county‐level variation in influenza vaccine use exists among short‐ and long‐stay NH residents. Quality improvement interventions to improve vaccination rates can leverage these results to target NHs located in counties with lower risk‐standardized vaccine use.
Labor Market Policies in a Deep Recession: Lessons from Hoover's Policies during the U.S. Great Depression
Authors: ROULLEAU‐PASDELOUP JORDAN , ZHUTOVA ANASTASIA
Published: May 2021

What are the effects of labor market policies when the economy is sliding into a deep recession? We show that public announcements asking firms not to cut wages under H. Hoover during 1929–33 postponed entering the zero lower bound episode and reduced its duration. We develop and estimate a medium scale New Keynesian model to measure the effect of Hoover policies during the Great Depression and we find evidence that without such polices the U.S. economy would have ended up in a liquidity trap 3 years before it actually did, suffering an even deeper recession with a larger deflation.
The Effectiveness of the Transitional Care Program Among People Awaiting Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Yuroong Arisara , Asdornwised Usavadee , Pinyopasakul Wanpen , Wongkornrat Wanchai , Chansatitporn Natkamol
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study examined the effectiveness of the Transitional Care Program (TCP) on the anxiety, depression, cardiac self‐efficacy, number of hospitalizations, and satisfaction with care among people awaiting elective coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Design

The study design was a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

The participants with coronary artery disease who met the study criteria (n = 104) were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n = 52) receiving the TCP plus routine care, or the control group (n = 52) receiving routine care only. The TCP, developed based on the Transitional Care Model, comprised hospital discharge planning and six weekly home telephone follow‐ups to provide health education, counseling, monitoring, and emotional support tailored to the individual’s needs. Data were collected at baseline, and then at weeks 1, 6, and 8 after program enrollment. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, repeated‐measures analysis of variance, and the Z test.

Findings

The intervention group had lower anxiety and depression than did the control group at weeks 1, 6, and 8 after program enrollment. At weeks 6 and 8, the intervention group exhibited higher cardiac self‐efficacy and satisfaction with care than the control group. Further, the intervention group had a significantly lower number of hospitalizations than the control group at week 8.

Conclusions

The TCP can reduce anxiety, depression, and number of hospitalizations, while increasing cardiac self‐efficacy and satisfaction with care among people awaiting CABG.

Clinical Relevance

Nurses are in a pivotal position to make care transitions safer. Provision of discharge education and regular telephone contacts could enhance positive outcomes regarding patients awaiting elective cardiac surgery.
Neuropsychological assessment of paediatric brain tumour survivors: Factors associated with assessment
Authors: Slykerman Rebecca F , Jenner Emily , Tsui Karen , Laughton Stephen
Published: May 2021

Aim

Paediatric brain tumour survivors are at increased risk of neurocognitive deficits that affect their education. The aim of this study was to assess the proportion of brain tumour survivors who historically received a neuropsychological assessment and examine the demographic and treatment‐related variables associated with neuropsychological assessment. A further aim was to determine the number and treatment profile of brain tumour survivors who would benefit from neuropsychological assessment.

Methods

Data from the New Zealand Children's Cancer Registry including treatments received, was used to identify children treated for a brain tumour at Starship Children's Hospital between January 2009 and December 2015. Clinical records were examined for evidence of a neuropsychological assessment in the form of a written report. Logistic regression models were used to determine factors associated with receipt of an assessment.

Results

Of the 132 brain tumour survivors, 37 (28.0%) had evidence of a neuropsychological assessment in their clinical records. In adjusted analysis, children who were treated with all three of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy (n = 38) were more likely to have had an assessment (odds ratio: 12.90; 95% confidence interval: 4.76–34.93) than children who had either no treatment, chemotherapy alone, surgery alone or chemotherapy and surgery (n = 73). Treatment with radiotherapy alone or with either chemotherapy or surgery (n = 21) was not significantly associated with receipt of assessment (odds ratio = 2.40; 95% confidence interval: 0.69–8.37).

Conclusions

It is important to identify the number of children who might benefit from neuropsychological assessment to inform prioritisation within existing resource and plan for additional resource if required. With a focus on reducing late effects, it is imperative that neuropsychological assessment is an integral component of a paediatric brain tumour programme.
Effect of sugar and starch supplementation on feed intake and nutrient digestibility in addax (Addax nasomaculatus) and Reeves’s muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi)
Authors: Przybyło Marcin , Dander Sara , Krawiec Karolina , Kloska Alina , Kowalski Zygmunt M. , Górka Paweł
Published: May 2021

Two studies were conducted to determine the effect of the supplementation of sugar, starch or both on feed, nutrient and energy intake and total tract digestibility in four adult female addax (Addax nasomaculatus) and four adult male Reeves's muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi) – representatives of grazing and browsing ruminants, respectively. Studies in both species were conducted according to 4 × 4 Latin Square Design. Animals had free access to meadow hay (addax) or dehydrated chopped lucerne (muntjac), and were fed a restricted amount of a ‘basal diet’ consisting of: (1) wheat bran; (2) wheat bran and sucrose (source of sugar); (3) wheat bran and wheat (source of starch); or (4) wheat bran, sucrose and wheat. The amounts of supplemental sucrose and wheat were set to account for 2% and 15%, respectively, of dry matter (DM) consumed. There was no effect of the ~2% sugar supplementation on DM intake of hay by addax, while the ~10% starch supplementation reduced DM intake of hay by 13% (p < 0.01); total DM intake (of hay and the basal diet) was not affected neither by sugar nor starch supplementation. When the diet for addax included wheat, this resulted in a greater intake of crude protein by 15%, lower intake of ADF by 9%, and greater crude protein digestibility by 10% (p ≤ 0.05). The ~2% sugar supplementation did not affect intake of lucerne and total DM intake by muntjac, but the ~10% starch supplementation decreased DM intake of lucerne by 25% (p < 0.01), total DM intake by 7% (p = 0.02) and intake of all nutrients (p ≤ 0.10). In summary, if high intake of roughages by captive ruminants is fundamental for their gastrointestinal functions and health, then starchy feeds supplementation should be limited, as they have an especially negative impact on roughage intake.
Point‐of‐care N‐terminal pro B‐type natriuretic peptide assay to screen apparently healthy cats for cardiac disease in general practice
Authors: Lu Ta‐Li , Côté Etienne , Kuo Yu‐Wen , Wu Hao‐Han , Wang Wen‐Yen , Hung Yong‐Wei
Published: May 2021

Background

Point‐of‐care (POC) N‐terminal pro B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) ELISA test has been evaluated for screening cats for cardiac disease in the referral veterinary setting but less is known about its use in general practice (GP).

Objectives

To evaluate the diagnostic utility of a POC NT‐proBNP ELISA in cats seen in GPs.

Animals

Two hundred and seventeen apparently healthy cats from 21 GPs.

Methods

This was a prospective, cross‐sectional study. Cardiac auscultation and POC NT‐proBNP ELISA were done by veterinarians at their GPs. After enrollment at GPs, cats were sent to a cardiology referral hospital for cardiac auscultation and echocardiographic diagnosis. Results were interpreted based on whether cats had normal or abnormal echocardiographic findings.

Results

Point‐of‐care NT‐proBNP ELISA results differentiated cats in the abnormal group from those in the normal group with a sensitivity of 43%, specificity of 96%. In cats with a heart murmur at GPs, POC NT‐proBNP ELISA results differentiated cats in the abnormal group from those in the normal group with a sensitivity of 71% and a specificity of 92%.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

In apparently healthy cats in GPs, positive POC NT‐proBNP results are associated with heart disease, warranting an echocardiogram, but negative results do not reliably exclude heart disease. These results suggest POC NT‐proBNP is not an effective screening test for apparently healthy cats in GPs, although its performance is improved if it is used only in cats that have a heart murmur.
Entitativity and implicit measures of social cognition
Authors: Phillips Ben
Published: May 2021

I argue that in addressing worries about the validity and reliability of implicit measures of social cognition, theorists should draw on research concerning “entitativity perception.” In brief, an aggregate of people is perceived as highly “entitative” when its members exhibit a certain sort of unity. For example, think of the difference between the aggregate of people waiting in line at a bank versus a tight‐knit group of friends: The latter seems more “groupy” than the former. I start by arguing that entitativity perception modulates the activation of implicit biases and stereotypes. I then argue that recognizing this modulatory role will help researchers to address concerns surrounding the validity and reliability of implicit measures.
Mosquito Magnet® traps as a potential means of monitoring blackflies of medical and veterinary importance
Authors: López‐Peña D. , Hawkes F. M. , Gibson G. I. , Johnston C. , Vaux A. G. C. , Lis‐Cantín Á. , Medlock J. M. , Cheke R. A.
Published: May 2021

Mosquito Magnet® traps, deployed in widespread parts of England as part of nationwide mosquito surveillance projects, also caught blackflies. As many as 1242 blackflies were caught in a trapping session lasting 4 days. Principal among the species caught were Simulium equinum, Simulium lineatum and Simulium ornatum s.l. As S. ornatum s.l. is a vector that transmits Onchocerca linealis to cattle and S. equinum is responsible for dermatitis (‘sweet itch’) in cattle and horses, it is suggested that Mosquito Magnet® traps could be used to monitor and partially control these pests, as well as nuisance anthropophilic blackflies such as Simulium posticatum that can cause simuliidosis in southern England.
Predictors of maximal postoperative pain at rest in adult patients undergoing elective surgery – A multicenter observational study
Authors: Tomaszek Lucyna , Ozga Dorota
Published: May 2021

The aim of this prospective cohort study was to assess the maximum intensity of postoperative pain at rest in 620 adults after an elective surgery as well as to determine demographic and clinical predictors of pain. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale was used to evaluate the preoperative mental condition of the patient. Preoperative and postoperative pain were assessed at rest based on the Numeric Rating Scale (range: 0–10). The total median maximum intensity of pain was 3 (interquartile range: 1–5). The linear regression model for the maximum intensity of postoperative pain was statistically significant and very well fitted – the coefficient of determination was 62%. Preoperative anxiety, pain, cancer, a medical history of thyroid (vs abdominal) surgery, and an operation resulting in major (vs moderate) tissue injury have a positive impact on the maximum intensity of postoperative pain. Eye surgery and lower limb operations gave lower scores than abdominal surgery. The early identification of these predictors in patients at risk for postoperative pain will help in preparing an individual pain management plan.
Hydraulically‐vulnerable trees survive on deep‐water access during droughts in a tropical forest
Authors: Chitra‐Tarak Rutuja , Xu Chonggang , Aguilar Salomón , Anderson‐Teixeira Kristina J. , Chambers Jeff , Detto Matteo , Faybishenko Boris , Fisher Rosie A. , Knox Ryan G. , Koven Charles D. , Kueppers Lara M , Kunert Nobert , Kupers Stefan J. , McDowell Nate G. , Newman Brent D. , Paton Steven R. , Pérez Rolando , Ruiz Laurent , Sack Lawren , Warren Jeffrey M. , Wolfe Brett T. , Wright Cynthia , Wright S. Joseph , Zailaa Joseph , McMahon Sean M.
Published: May 2021

Deep‐water access is arguably the most effective, but under‐studied, mechanism that plants employ to survive during drought. Vulnerability to embolism and hydraulic safety margins can predict mortality risk at given levels of dehydration, but deep‐water access may delay plant dehydration. Here, we tested the role of deep‐water access in enabling survival within a diverse tropical forest community in Panama using a novel data‐model approach.

We inversely estimated the effective rooting depth (ERD, as the average depth of water extraction), for 29 canopy species by linking diameter growth dynamics (1990–2015) to vapor pressure deficit, water potentials in the whole‐soil column, and leaf hydraulic vulnerability curves. We validated ERD estimates against existing isotopic data of potential water‐access depths.

Across species, deeper ERD was associated with higher maximum stem hydraulic conductivity, greater vulnerability to xylem embolism, narrower safety margins, and lower mortality rates during extreme droughts over 35 years (1981–2015) among evergreen species. Species exposure to water stress declined with deeper ERD indicating that trees compensate for water stress‐related mortality risk through deep‐water access.

The role of deep‐water access in mitigating mortality of hydraulically‐vulnerable trees has important implications for our predictive understanding of forest dynamics under current and future climates.
Elongation of wood fibers combines features of diffuse and tip growth
Authors: Majda Mateusz , Kozlova Liudmila , Banasiak Alicja , Derba‐Maceluch Marta , Iashchishyn Igor A. , Morozova‐Roche Ludmilla A. , Smith Richard S. , Gorshkova Tatyana , Mellerowicz Ewa J.
Published: May 2021

Xylem fibers are highly elongated cells that are key constituents of wood, play major physiological roles in plants, comprise an important terrestrial carbon reservoir, and thus have enormous ecological and economic importance. As they develop, from fusiform initials, their bodies remain the same length while their tips elongate and intrude into intercellular spaces.

To elucidate mechanisms of tip elongation, we studied the cell wall along the length of isolated, elongating aspen xylem fibers and used computer simulations to predict the forces driving the intercellular space formation required for their growth.

We found pectin matrix epitopes (JIM5, LM7) concentrated at the tips where cellulose microfibrils have transverse orientation, and xyloglucan epitopes (CCRC‐M89, CCRC‐M58) in fiber bodies where microfibrils are disordered. These features are accompanied by changes in cell wall thickness, indicating that while the cell wall elongates strictly at the tips, it is deposited all over fibers. Computer modeling revealed that the intercellular space formation needed for intrusive growth may only require targeted release of cell adhesion, which allows turgor pressure in neighboring fiber cells to ‘round’ the cells creating spaces.

These characteristics show that xylem fibers’ elongation involves a distinct mechanism that combines features of both diffuse and tip growth.
Iron supplementation following bariatric surgery: A systematic review of current strategies
Authors: Anvari Sama , Samarasinghe Yasith , Alotaiby Nouf , Tiboni Maria , Crowther Mark , Doumouras Aristithes G.
Published: May 2021

Iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are common following bariatric surgery; however, there are limited standardized treatment recommendations for their management. The purpose of this study was to review the current strategies for iron supplementation following bariatric surgery and assess their relative efficacy in managing ID and IDA. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched to January 2021. Primary outcomes of interest were prevention or improvement in ID or IDA with iron supplementation. Forty‐nine studies with 12,880 patients were included. Most patients underwent Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (61.9%). Iron supplementation was most commonly administered orally for prevention of ID/IDA and was effective in 52% of studies. Both IV and oral iron were given for treatment of ID/IDA. Fifty percent (3/6) of the oral and 100% (3/3) of the IV supplementation strategies were effective at treating ID. Iron supplementation strategies employed following bariatric surgery are highly variable, and many do not provide sufficient iron to prevent the development of ID and IDA, potentially due to poor patient adherence. Further high‐quality prospective trials, particularly comparing intravenous and oral iron, are warranted in order to determine the ideal dosage, route, and duration of iron supplementation.
Mismatches between birds' spatial and temporal dynamics reflect their delayed response to global changes
Authors: Gaüzère Pierre , Devictor Vincent
Published: May 2021

Global changes alter the dynamics of biodiversity, and are forecasted to continue or worsen in the decades to come. Modelling approaches used to anticipate these impacts are mainly based on the equivalence between spatial and temporal response to environmental forcings, generally called space‐for‐time substitution. However, several processes are known to generate deviations between spatial and temporal responses, potentially undermining the prediction based on space‐for‐time substitution. We here used high‐resolution data from the french breeding bird survey to quantify and map the deviation between spatial and temporal patterns of bird abundances resulting from the dynamics of 124 species monitored in 2133 sites between 2001 and 2012. Using independent empirical data, we then tested specific predictions linked to the determinants (anthropogenic activities) and processes (lagged responses to environmental changes) potentially generating these deviations. We found that deviations between spatial and temporal patterns of abundances were particularly structured in space for bird communities. Following our predictions, these space–time deviations were positively correlated with the human influence on ecosystems, and linked with colonization–extinction ratios and community completeness, two markers of ongoing delayed responses to environmental changes. Our results suggest that the deviations between spatial and temporal patterns are related to recent anthropogenic environmental changes and disequilibrium responses to these changes. Investigating deviations between spatial and temporal patterns of biodiversity might open promising perspectives for a formal quantification of disequilibrium state of biodiversity at large spatial scale.
Use of belatacept as alternative graft vs host disease prophylaxis in pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Wright Mariah , Rangarajan Hemalatha , Abu‐Arja Rolla , Auletta Jeffery J. , Lee Dean , Polishchuk Veronika , Pai Vinita , Taylor Kimberly , Bajwa Rajinder P.S.
Published: May 2021

Background

Immunosuppressive prophylaxis is usually given to decrease the development of acute graft versus host disease (GvHD) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Belatacept is a Cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte‐associated protein 4, blocking agent, an immunosuppressive agent used for organ rejection prevention in adult renal transplant recipients.

Methods

We describe two children in whom belatacept was successfully used for GvHD prophylaxis. Case 1 was noncompliant with prior immunosuppressive therapy for aplastic anemia, and Case 2 developed severe thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) precluding the use of calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) or mTOR inhibitors.

Results and Conclusion

Belatacept was found to be a safe alternative in preventing GvHD in 2 patients in whom traditional prophylactic therapies were not possible to use.
Equality
Authors: Zanetti Gianfrancesco
Published: May 2021

“Equality” is a notion about which disagreement arises not simply due to lack of clarity and precision (or intellectual dishonesty and bad faith). Rather, equality is an idea that implies and implicates some form of disagreement as a constitutive possibility of its horizon of discussion. This, in my view, is both a problem and an opportunity. I submit that equality is a plural notion: There are only equalities, practices aimed at removing situated circumstances of inequality and discrimination.
Transcriptome profiles of pre‐pubertal and adult in vitro matured ovine oocytes obtained from FSH‐stimulated animals
Authors: Ying Chen , Yangsheng Wu , Jiapeng Lin , Liqin Wang , Xiaolin Li , Mingjun Liu , Juncheng Huang
Published: May 2021

Pre‐pubertal females produce more oocytes than adult individuals, but the ability of oocytes to undergo embryonic development and produce viable offspring is less in pre‐pubertal animals than in adult animals. Oocyte quality is associated with abnormal gene expression. To date, the transcriptome profiles of 1‐month‐old lamb oocytes after in vitro maturation (IVM) are poorly reported. This study aimed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in lamb oocytes with varying competencies, affecting oocyte competence. Using RNA sequencing (RNA developmental ‐seq) technology, the transcriptome profiles of 1‐month‐old lamb oocytes after IVM were assessed, and oocytes from adult sheep large follicles were used as controls. We found 11 up‐regulated and 39 down‐regulated DEGs in lamb oocytes. Gene Ontology analysis of DEGs showed that molecular functions were clustered in catalytic and binding activities, while biological processes were clustered in metabolic process, cellular process, single‐organism process and biological regulation. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis showed that the DEGs were involved in oxidative phosphorylation, transforming growth factor‐beta signalling pathway, or DNA replication. In lamb MII oocytes, down‐regulation of oxidative phosphorylation genes (ATP5E, NDUFA7 and COX6C), thiol protease inhibitor (CSTB) and 26S proteasome component (SHFM1) and up‐regulation of CUL1, MARCH7 and TRIM17 might cause low competence of lamb embryos. In conclusion, this study provided detailed information on mRNA transcriptomes in lamb oocytes after IVM, which offers insights into the reduced developmental potential of lamb oocytes.
Molecular signature and colony morphology affect in vitro pluripotency of porcine induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Setthawong Piyathip , Phakdeedindan Praopilas , Techakumphu Mongkol , Tharasanit Theerawat
Published: May 2021

Overall efficiency of cell reprogramming for porcine fibroblasts into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is currently poor, and few cell lines have been established. This study examined gene expression during early phase of cellular reprogramming in the relationship to the iPSC colony morphology and in vitro pluripotent characteristics. Fibroblasts were reprogrammed with OCT4, SOX2, KLF4 and c‐MYC. Two different colony morphologies referred to either compact (n = 10) or loose (n = 10) colonies were further examined for proliferative activity, gene expression and in vitro pluripotency. A total of 1,697 iPSC‐like colonies (2.34%) were observed after gene transduction. The compact colonies contained with tightly packed cells with a distinct‐clear border between the colony and feeder cells, while loose colonies demonstrated irregular colony boundary. For quantitative expression of genes responsible for early phase cell reprogramming, the Dppa2 and EpCAM were significantly upregulated while NR0B1 was downregulated in compact colonies compared with loose phenotype (p < .05). Higher proportion of compact iPSC phenotype (5 of 10, 50%) could be maintained in undifferentiated state for more than 50 passages compared unfavourably with loose morphology (3 of 10, 30%). All iPS cell lines obtained from these two types of colony morphologies expressed pluripotent genes and proteins (OCT4, NANOG and E‐cadherin). In addition, they could aggregate and form three‐dimensional structure of embryoid bodies. However, only compact iPSC colonies differentiated into three germ layers. Molecular signature of early phase of cell reprogramming coupled with primary colony morphology reflected the in vitro pluripotency of porcine iPSCs. These findings can be simply applied for pre‐screening selection of the porcine iPSC cell line.
Sperm subpopulations influence the pregnancy rates in cattle
Authors: Hidalgo Myrian Megumy Tsunokawa , Almeida Ana Beatriz Marques de , Moraes Fábio Lucas Zito de , Marubayashi Rodrigo Yudi Palhaci , Souza Fabiana Ferreira de , Barreiros Thales Ricardo Rigo , Martins Maria Isabel Mello
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to study the characteristics and subpopulations of spermatozoa from bulls with low and high reproductive performance based on pregnancy rates. Based on historical records of pregnancy rate from four farms, 24 bulls were selected. Two groups were established, with low pregnancy rates (n = 12; LOW), including bulls that presented pregnancy rates <52.27% (33.33% to 51.81%); and a group with high pregnancy rates (n = 12; HIGH), with pregnancy rates >52.27% (52.27% to 69.64%), after fixed‐time artificial insemination (FTAI). The thawed sperm straws were analysed to sperm kinetics, morphology, plasma membrane integrity and sperm subpopulations. The LOW group exhibited a higher proportion of static cells (p < .05). In contrast, the HIGH group showed greater percentages for membrane integrity and total and progressive motility, and cells with fast and medium velocity (p < .05). In the cluster procedures, four sperm subpopulations were established. The low‐fertility bulls presented the highest percentage of subpopulation 2 (41.46%), characterized by slow and progressive spermatozoa. The high‐fertility bulls exhibited the highest percentage of subpopulation 3 (37.17%), characterized by fast and nonlinear spermatozoa. Results from this study indicated that bulls with greater percentages of fast and nonlinear spermatozoa seem to have greater fertilization capacity and the subpopulations analysis can be considered a tool to identify ejaculates with high fertility.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐C*01:214 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Jacob Valentine , Dard Céline , Desoutter Judith , Guillaume Nicolas
Published: May 2021

HLA‐C*01:214 differs from HLA‐C*01:02:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon −10 in exon 1.
The novel HLA‐B allele, HLA‐B*55:01:27
Authors: Loginova Maria , Kutyavina Svetlana , Smirnova Daria , Paramonov Igor , Zarubin Maksim
Published: May 2021

HLA‐B*55:01:27 differs from HLA‐B*55:01:01:01 by a mutation at nucleotide 873.
Between Film and the World: Roma Ways of Seeing and Perceiving Persons
Authors: Bonini Baraldi Filippo
Published: May 2021

In a Roma village of Transylvania (Romania), Western ways of distinguishing visual products in categories such as fiction, ethnographic documentary, and scientific image do not make any sense. Far from being trivial, this dissolution of Western visual categories reveals the particular way Roma conceive of the ontological categories of person, person‐image (actor), and person‐skeleton (phantom), rooted in a strong ambiguity between “being oneself” and “playing a role.” This is an ambiguity that may fade away in some ephemeral moments, when the “true” person manifests.
Satirical Antiracism: Digital Protest Images in Afro‐Brazilian Media
Authors: Gillam Reighan
Published: May 2021

This article presents satire, irony, and parody as a means to contest racist structures through media production. I specifically examine the Is That OK With You? YouTube Series as it presents a break from traditional relationships between humor and race in Brazil by turning attention toward systemic racism. I theorize “satirical antiracism” as a way to understand how Afro‐Brazilians deploy satire to make visible the contradictions and inconsistencies of the racial order. Satirical antiracism is a form of activism that invokes the tension of contradictory subjects, such as humor and racism in communicating its message.
Decrypting species in the Nacobbus aberrans (Nematoda: Pratylenchidae) complex using integrative taxonomy
Authors: Lax Paola , Gonzalez‐Ittig Raúl E. , Rondan Dueñas Juan C. , Andrade Alberto J. , Gardenal Cristina N. , Franco Javier , Doucet Marcelo E.
Published: May 2021

The plant‐parasitic nematode Nacobbus aberrans s.l. is a major agricultural pest of quarantine importance worldwide and is one of the top 10 nematodes in plant pathology because it causes significant losses in several crops. There are evidences of the existence of a species complex, with species being difficult to discriminate using only morphological characters. In this study, we aimed at resolving the taxonomic situation from a multi‐disciplinary approach, based on morphometric data and molecular analyses. The results supported the identification of three nominal species in the complex: N. aberrans s.s., N. bolivianus and a new taxon, Nacobbus celatus sp. n. This new species, described based on the revision of published and new data, is widely distributed in the lowlands of Argentina. Our results also evidence the possible existence of a new taxon native to the Andean region of the same country. For the first time, the utility of cytochrome oxidase c subunit 1 barcoding for Nacobbus species identification is corroborated. This study also includes the estimation of divergence time among Nacobbus spp.; the possible geographical origin of the genus and colonization pattern are discussed. The present work shows the usefulness of an integrated approach to the resolution of systematic problems.
K-theory of valuation rings
Authors: Kelly Shane , Morrow Matthew
Published: May 2021

We prove several results showing that the algebraic$K$-theory of valuation rings behaves as though such rings were regular Noetherian, in particular an analogue of the Geisser–Levine theorem. We also give some new proofs of known results concerning cdh descent of algebraic$K$-theory.