bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying SARS‐CoV‐2 ‘memory’ NK cells from COVID‐19 convalescent donors for adoptive cell therapy
Authors: Herrera Lara , Martin‐Inaraja Myriam , Santos Silvia , Inglés‐Ferrándiz Marta , Azkarate Aida , Perez‐Vaquero Miguel A. , Vesga Miguel A. , Vicario Jose L. , Soria Bernat , Solano Carlos , De Paz Raquel , Marcos Antonio , Ferreras Cristina , Perez‐Martinez Antonio , Eguizabal Cristina
Published: November 2021

COVID‐19 disease is the manifestation of syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection, which is causing a worldwide pandemic. This disease can lead to multiple and different symptoms, being lymphopenia associated with severity one of the most persistent. Natural killer cells (NK cells) are part of the innate immune system, being fighting against virus‐infected cells one of their key roles. In this study, we determined the phenotype of NK cells after COVID‐19 and the main characteristic of SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific‐like NK population in the blood of convalescent donors. CD57+ NKG2C+ phenotype in SARS‐CoV‐2 convalescent donors indicates the presence of ‘memory’/activated NK cells as it has been shown for cytomegalovirus infections. Although the existence of this population is donor dependent, its expression may be crucial for the specific response against SARS‐CoV‐2, so that, it gives us a tool for selecting the best donors to produce off‐the‐shelf living drug for cell therapy to treat COVID‐19 patients under the RELEASE clinical trial (NCT04578210).
Whole blood‐based measurement of SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific T cells reveals asymptomatic infection and vaccine immunogenicity in healthy subjects and patients with solid‐organ cancers
Authors: Scurr Martin J. , Zelek Wioleta M. , Lippiatt George , Somerville Michelle , Burnell Stephanie E. A. , Capitani Lorenzo , Davies Kate , Lawton Helen , Tozer Thomas , Rees Tara , Roberts Kerry , Evans Mererid , Jackson Amanda , Young Charlotte , Fairclough Lucy , Tighe Paddy , Wills Mark , Westwell Andrew D. , Morgan B. Paul , Gallimore Awen , Godkin Andrew
Published: November 2021

Accurate assessment of SARS‐CoV‐2 immunity is critical in evaluating vaccine efficacy and devising public health policies. Whilst the exact nature of effective immunity remains incompletely defined, SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific T‐cell responses are a critical feature that will likely form a key correlate of protection against COVID‐19. Here, we developed and optimized a high‐throughput whole blood‐based assay to determine the T‐cell response associated with prior SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and/or vaccination amongst 231 healthy donors and 68 cancer patients. Following overnight in vitro stimulation with SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific peptides, blood plasma samples were analysed for TH1‐type cytokines. Highly significant differential IFN‐γ+/IL‐2+ SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific T‐cell responses were seen amongst previously infected COVID‐19‐positive healthy donors in comparison with unknown / naïve individuals (p < 0·0001). IFN‐γ production was more effective at identifying asymptomatic donors, demonstrating higher sensitivity (96·0% vs. 83·3%) but lower specificity (84·4% vs. 92·5%) than measurement of IL‐2. A single COVID‐19 vaccine dose induced IFN‐γ and/or IL‐2 SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific T‐cell responses in 116 of 128 (90·6%) healthy donors, reducing significantly to 27 of 56 (48·2%) when measured in cancer patients (p < 0·0001). A second dose was sufficient to boost T‐cell responses in the majority (90·6%) of cancer patients, albeit IFN‐γ+ responses were still significantly lower overall than those induced in healthy donors (p = 0·034). Three‐month post‐vaccination T‐cell responses also declined at a faster rate in cancer patients. Overall, this cost‐effective standardizable test ensures accurate and comparable assessments of SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific T‐cell responses amenable to widespread population immunity testing, and identifies individuals at greater need of booster vaccinations.
MicroRNA‐590‐3p inhibits T helper 17 cells and ameliorates inflammation in lupus mice
Authors: Huang Junxia , Xu Xinzhi , Wang Xiuyuan , Yang Jie , Xue Meijuan , Yang Yiming , Zhang Ruomei , Yang Xue , Yang Ji
Published: November 2021

T helper 17 (Th17) cells have a pathogenic effect in many autoimmune diseases. Inhibition of Th17 cells can alleviate the inflammatory damage in autoimmune diseases. Our previous study found that microRNA‐590‐3p (miR‐590‐3p) was involved in the differentiation of Th17 cells in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here, we demonstrated that an increase in Th17 cells was correlated with low expression of miR‐590‐3p in patients with SLE and in lupus mice. Upregulation of miR‐590‐3p reduced the differentiation and promoted apoptosis of Th17 cells. Subsequent experiments demonstrated that miR‐590‐3p promoted apoptosis in Th17 cells by inhibiting autophagy. Autophagy‐related 7 (Atg7) was the direct target of miR‐590‐3p that blocked the autophagy pathway. Finally, treatment of MRL/lpr mice with miR‐590‐3p agomir ameliorated lupus nephritis and skin lesions. Our work revealed that miR‐590‐3p inhibited Th17 cells by suppressing autophagy and that increased miR‐590‐3p expression was able to ameliorate the clinical symptoms of lupus. Therefore, miR‐590‐3p may be a promising therapeutic target for SLE and other Th17 cell‐dependent autoimmune diseases.
Multifunctional single‐crystal tellurium core multimaterial fiber via thermal drawing and laser recrystallization
Authors: Han Bin , Luo Qianhang , Zhang Pengyu , Zhang Ting , Tang Guowu , Chen Zhe , Zhang Hang , Zhong Baoan , Zeng Yunhao , Sun Min , Qian Qi , Yang Zhongmin
Published: November 2021

In the field of multimaterial optical fibers, the demand for high‐performance single‐crystal core glass‐clad multimaterial optical fibers is increasing. However, the applications of single‐crystal fibers are restricted by the complex fabrication processes and the slow growth of single‐crystal materials. Here, a two‐step method is demonstrated to achieve single‐crystal tellurium (Te) core fibers with high crystal quality over the length of the fiber. This method starts with the thermal drawing of a fiber preform into polycrystalline Te core multimaterial fibers (precursor fibers) that are long and mechanically stable. A 532‐nm continuous laser is then employed to recrystallize the Te core in the precursor fiber into a single crystal state along the entire length of the fiber. Experimental studies of these single‐crystal fibers demonstrate that the single‐crystal Te core fibers possess high transmittance (>90% at 2–10 μm) and high thermoelectric performance (ZT values from 0.03 to 0.13 at 300 K temperature). They are superior to previous reports and our previous work. This method works for fabricating various single‐crystal fibers and has important applications in the field of optical fibers, functional fibers, and their integrated devices.
Piezo‐photocatalytic activity of mechanochemically synthesized BiVO4 for dye cleaning
Authors: Kumar Manish , Vaish Rahul , ben Ahmed Samia
Published: November 2021

Single‐phase BiVO4 (BV) powder was synthesized successfully at 600°C within 4 h duration through the mechanochemical high energy ball milling method, and the combined photocatalytic and piezocatalytic activity was studied to exhibit piezo‐photocatalytic efficiency. Monoclinic BV phase existence in the synthesized powder was affirmed through Raman spectroscopy and the X‐ray diffraction techniques. The scanning electron microscopy affirmed the irregular‐shaped BV powder in the synthesized powders. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy affirmed the existence of various oxidation states of the elements V, Bi, and O in BV powders. The piezocatalytic and photocatalytic methylene blue (MB) dye degradation efficiency using BV powdered sample was observed to be 28% and 60%, respectively, within 240 min. The piezo‐photocatalytic MB dye degradation using BV powdered sample was observed to be 81% within 240 min. Effect of dye concentration on kinetic rate constant was also studied.
The use of laser-based diagnostics for the rapid identification of blood borne viruses in human plasma samples
Authors: Multari Rosalie A. , Cremers David A. , Nelson Ann , Fisher Carolyn , Karimi Zohreh , Young Stephen , Green Valerie , Williamson Phillip , Duncan Robert
Published: November 2021

Aims

To demonstrate the use of a laser-based method of detection as a potential diagnostic test for the rapid identification of blood borne viruses in human plasma.

Methods and Results

In this study, using light emissions from laser sparks on plasma samples, the successful differentiation of both human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in both residual de-identified plasma samples and plasma samples spiked to clinically relevant levels with each virus were demonstrated using plasma from more than 20 individuals spanning six different blood types (O+, O−, A+, A−, B+, B−).

Conclusions

These experiments demonstrate that mathematical analysis of spectral data from laser sparks can provide accurate results within minutes. This capability was demonstrated using both spiked laboratory plasma samples and clinical plasma samples collected from infected and uninfected individuals.

Significance and Impact of the Study

There is an ongoing need to rapidly detect viral infections and to screen for multiple viral infections. A laser-based approach can achieve sensitive, multiplex detection with minimal sample preparation and provide results within minutes. These properties along with the flexibility to add new agent detection by adjusting the detection programming make it a promising tool for clinical diagnosis. The potential for a laser-based approach has been previously demonstrated using pathogens spiked into human blood to clinically relevant levels. This study demonstrates this same ability to detect infections in clinical and laboratory spiked plasma samples. The ability to differentiate between plasma samples from infected and uninfected donors and determine the virus type using a laser-based diagnostic has not been previously demonstrated. Furthermore, this study is the first demonstration of the capability to differentiate viral infections in clinical plasma samples whereas previously published work used laboratory samples spiked with a virus or dealt with the detection of cancer in clinical plasma samples.
Effectiveness of implant‐supported fixed partial denture in patients with history of periodontitis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Carra Maria Clotilde , Rangé Hélène , Swerts Pieter‐Jan , Tuand Krizia , Vandamme Katleen , Bouchard Philippe
Published: November 2021

Aim

This systematic review investigates the effectiveness of implant‐supported fixed partial denture (IS‐FPD) in patients with history of periodontitis (HP) vs. patients with no history of periodontitis (NHP).

Methods

A literature search was performed on different databases on May 2020. Prospective and retrospective studies assessing survival (primary outcome), success and biological/mechanical complications of IS‐FPDs in HP vs. NHP patients at ≥1 year after implant loading were evaluated. Meta‐analyses were conducted by estimating hazard ratio (HR), risk ratio (RR) and standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) using random effect models.

Results

Of the initially identified 4096 articles, 349 underwent a full‐text evaluation. Finally, 17 were included. Pooled data analyses showed that overall implant survival was significantly higher in the NHP than the HP group (HR = 2.06; 95% CI = 1.37–3.09; I2 = 0%). This difference was noted when follow‐up ≥5 years. The risk of peri‐implantitis was higher in HP than NHP patients (RR = 3.3; 95% CI = 1.31–8.3; I2 = 0%), whereas the mean marginal bone level change over time was not different between the groups (SMD = −0.16 mm; 95% CI = −1.04–0.73; I2 = 98%).

Conclusions

In partially edentulous patients receiving IS‐FPDs, a history of periodontitis is associated with poorer survival rate and higher risk of peri‐implantitis during a 5–10 years period after implant loading.
Time Consistency and Counterproductive Monetary Policy Cooperation in a Two‐Country New Keynesian Model
Authors: Ngoc Doan Thang , Fujimoto Junichi
Published: November 2021

We use a two‐country New Keynesian model to revisit the issue of counterproductive monetary policy cooperation. By analyzing the optimal commitment, discretionary, and sustainable policies, we show how counterproductive cooperation and governments' commitment ability are linked. The global Friedman rule, whereby both countries always adopt the Friedman rule, maximizes the joint welfare for a wide range of parameters. However, cooperation makes the global Friedman rule unimplementable under discretionary policies and harder to sustain under sustainable policies. Counterproductive cooperation therefore arises naturally when governments lack commitment ability and some stronger commitment device than reputation is necessary to achieve gains from cooperation.
Neurosensory anatomy of Varanopidae and its implications for early synapsid evolution
Authors: Bazzana Kayla D. , Evans David C. , Bevitt Joseph J. , Reisz Robert R.
Published: November 2021

Varanopids are a group of Palaeozoic terrestrial amniotes which represent one of the earliest‐diverging groups of synapsids, but their palaeoneurology has gone largely unstudied and recent analyses have challenged their traditional placement within synapsids. We utilized computed tomography (CT) to study the virtual cranial and otic endocasts of six varanopids, including representative taxa of both mycterosaurines and varanodontines. Our results show that the varanopid brain is largely plesiomorphic, being tubular in shape and showing no expansion of the cerebrum or olfactory bulbs, but is distinct in showing highly expanded floccular fossae. The housing of the varanopid bony labyrinth is also distinct, in that the labyrinth is bounded almost entirely by the supraoccipital‐opisthotic complex, with the prootic only bordering the ventral portion of the vestibule. The bony labyrinth is surprisingly well‐ossified, clearly preserving the elliptical, sub‐orthogonal canals, prominent ampullae, and the short, undifferentiated vestibule; this high degree of ossification is similar to that seen in therapsid synapsids and supports the traditional placement of varanopids within Synapsida. The enlarged anterior canal, together with the elliptical, orthogonal canals and enlarged floccular fossa, lend support for the fast head movements indicated by the inferred predatory feeding mode of varanopids. Reconstructed neurosensory anatomy indicates that varanopids may have a much lower‐frequency hearing range compared to more derived synapsids, suggesting that, despite gaining some active predatory features, varanopids retain plesiomorphic hearing capabilities. As a whole, our data reveal that the neuroanatomy of pelycosaur‐grade synapsids is far more complex than previously anticipated.
Evolution of phenotypic variance in response to a novel hot environment
Authors: Lai Wei‐Yun , Schlötterer Christian
Published: November 2021

Shifts in trait means are widely considered as evidence for adaptive responses, but the impact on phenotypic variance remains largely unexplored. Classic quantitative genetics provides a theoretical framework to predict how selection on phenotypic mean affects the variance. In addition to this indirect effect, it is also possible that the variance of the trait is the direct target of selection, but experimentally characterized cases are rare. Here, we studied gene expression variance of Drosophila simulans males before and after 100 generations of adaptation to a novel hot laboratory environment. In each of the two independently evolved populations, the variance of 125 and 97 genes was significantly reduced. We propose that the drastic loss in environmental complexity from nature to the laboratory may have triggered selection for reduced variance. Our observation that selection could drive changes in the variance of gene expression could have important implications for studies of adaptation processes in natural and experimental populations.
Community metabarcoding reveals the relative role of environmental filtering and spatial processes in metacommunity dynamics of soil microarthropods across a mosaic of montane forests
Authors: Noguerales Víctor , Meramveliotakis Emmanouil , Castro‐Insua Adrián , Andújar Carmelo , Arribas Paula , Creedy Thomas J. , Overcast Isaac , Morlon Hélène , Emerson Brent C. , Vogler Alfried P. , Papadopoulou Anna
Published: November 2021

Disentangling the relative role of environmental filtering and spatial processes in driving metacommunity structure across mountainous regions remains challenging, as the way we quantify spatial connectivity in topographically and environmentally heterogeneous landscapes can influence our perception of which process predominates. More empirical data sets are required to account for taxon‐ and context‐dependency, but relevant research in understudied areas is often compromised by the taxonomic impediment. Here we used haplotype‐level community DNA metabarcoding, enabled by stringent filtering of amplicon sequence variants (ASVs), to characterize metacommunity structure of soil microarthropod assemblages across a mosaic of five forest habitats on the Troodos mountain range in Cyprus. We found similar β diversity patterns at ASV and species (OTU, operational taxonomic unit) levels, which pointed to a primary role of habitat filtering resulting in the existence of largely distinct metacommunities linked to different forest types. Within‐habitat turnover was correlated to topoclimatic heterogeneity, again emphasizing the role of environmental filtering. However, when integrating landscape matrix information for the highly fragmented Quercus alnifolia habitat, we also detected a major role of spatial isolation determined by patch connectivity, indicating that stochastic and niche‐based processes synergistically govern community assembly. Alpha diversity patterns varied between ASV and OTU levels, with OTU richness decreasing with elevation and ASV richness following a longitudinal gradient, potentially reflecting a decline of genetic diversity eastwards due to historical pressures. Our study demonstrates the utility of haplotype‐level community metabarcoding for characterizing metacommunity structure of complex assemblages and improving our understanding of biodiversity dynamics across mountainous landscapes worldwide.
Next‐generation phylogeography resolves post‐glacial colonization patterns in a widespread carnivore, the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), in Europe
Authors: McDevitt Allan D. , Coscia Ilaria , Browett Samuel S. , Ruiz‐González Aritz , Statham Mark J. , Ruczyńska Iwona , Roberts Liam , Stojak Joanna , Frantz Alain C. , Norén Karin , Ågren Erik O. , Learmount Jane , Basto Mafalda , Fernandes Carlos , Stuart Peter , Tosh David G. , Sindicic Magda , Andreanszky Tibor , Isomursu Marja , Panek Marek , Korolev Andrey , Okhlopkov Innokentiy M. , Saveljev Alexander P. , Pokorny Boštjan , Flajšman Katarina , Harrison Stephen W. R. , Lobkov Vladimir , Ćirović Duško , Mullins Jacinta , Pertoldi Cino , Randi Ettore , Sacks Benjamin N. , Kowalczyk Rafał , Wójcik Jan M.
Published: November 2021

Carnivores tend to exhibit a lack of (or less pronounced) genetic structure at continental scales in both a geographic and temporal sense and this can confound the identification of post‐glacial colonization patterns in this group. In this study we used genome‐wide data (using genotyping by sequencing [GBS]) to reconstruct the phylogeographic history of a widespread carnivore, the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), by investigating broad‐scale patterns of genomic variation, differentiation and admixture amongst contemporary populations in Europe. Using 15,003 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 524 individuals allowed us to identify the importance of refugial regions for the red fox in terms of endemism (e.g., Iberia). In addition, we tested multiple post‐glacial recolonization scenarios of previously glaciated regions during the Last Glacial Maximum using an Approximate Bayesian Computation (ABC) approach that were unresolved from previous studies. This allowed us to identify the role of admixture from multiple source population post‐Younger Dryas in the case of Scandinavia and ancient land‐bridges in the colonization of the British Isles. A natural colonization of Ireland was deemed more likely than an ancient human‐mediated introduction as has previously been proposed and potentially points to a larger mammalian community on the island in the early post‐glacial period. Using genome‐wide data has allowed us to tease apart broad‐scale patterns of structure and diversity in a widespread carnivore in Europe that was not evident from using more limited marker sets and provides a foundation for next‐generation phylogeographic studies in other non‐model species.
Domestication obscures genomic estimates of population history
Authors: Lu Chia‐Wei , Yao Cheng‐Te , Hung Chih‐Ming
Published: November 2021

Domesticated species are valuable models to examine phenotypic evolution, and knowledge on domestication history is critical for understanding the trajectories of evolutionary changes. Sequentially Markov Coalescent models are often used to infer domestication history. However, domestication practices may obscure the signal left by population history, affecting demographic inference. Here we assembled the genomes of a recently domesticated species—the society finch—and its parent species—the white‐rumped munia—to examine its domestication history. We applied genomic analyses to two society finch breeds and white‐rumped munias to test whether domestication of the former resulted from inbreeding or hybridization. The society finch showed longer and more runs of homozygosity and lower genomic heterozygosity than the white‐rumped munia, supporting an inbreeding origin in the former. Blocks of white‐rumped munia and other ancestry in society finch genomes showed similar genetic distance between the two taxa, inconsistent with the hybridization origin hypothesis. We then applied two Sequentially Markov Coalescent models—psmc and smc++—to infer the demographic histories of both. Surprisingly, the two models did not reveal a recent population bottleneck, but instead the psmc model showed a specious, dramatic population increase in the society finch. Subsequently, we used simulated genomes based on an array of demographic scenarios to demonstrate that recent inbreeding, not hybridization, caused the distorted psmc population trajectory. Such analyses could have misled our understanding of the domestication process. Our findings stress caution when interpreting the histories of recently domesticated species inferred by psmc, arguing that these histories require multiple analyses to validate.
Limits to photosynthesis: seasonal shifts in supply and demand for CO2 in Scots pine
Authors: Stangl Zsofia R. , Tarvainen Lasse , Wallin Göran , Marshall John D.
Published: November 2021

Boreal forests undergo a strong seasonal photosynthetic cycle; however, the underlying processes remain incompletely characterized. Here, we present a novel analysis of the seasonal diffusional and biochemical limits to photosynthesis (Anet) relative to temperature and light limitations in high‐latitude mature Pinus sylvestris, including a high‐resolution analysis of the seasonality of mesophyll conductance (gm) and its effect on the estimation of carboxylation capacity ().

We used a custom‐built gas‐exchange system coupled to a carbon isotope analyser to obtain continuous measurements for the estimation of the relevant shoot gas‐exchange parameters and quantified the biochemical and diffusional controls alongside the environmental controls over Anet.

The seasonality of Anet was strongly dependent on and the diffusional limitations. Stomatal limitation was low in spring and autumn but increased to 31% in June. By contrast, mesophyll limitation was nearly constant (19%). We found that limited Anet in the spring, whereas daily temperatures and the gradual reduction of light availability limited Anet in the autumn, despite relatively high .

We describe for the first time the role of mesophyll conductance in connection with seasonal trends in net photosynthesis of P. sylvestris, revealing a strong coordination between gm and Anet, but not between gm and stomatal conductance.
CsiLAC4 modulates boron flow in Arabidopsis and Citrus via high‐boron‐dependent lignification of cell walls
Authors: Huang Jing‐Hao , Zhang Ling‐Yuan , Lin Xiong‐Jie , Gao Yuan , Zhang Jiang , Huang Wei‐Lin , Zhao Daqiu , Ferrarezi Rhuanito Soranz , Fan Guo‐Cheng , Chen Li‐Song
Published: November 2021

The mechanisms underlying plant tolerance to boron (B) excess are far from fully understood. Here we characterized the role of the miR397‐CsiLAC4/CsiLAC17 (from Citrus sinensis) module in regulation of B flow.

Live‐cell imaging techniques were used in localization studies. A tobacco transient expression system tested modulations of CsiLAC4 and CsiLAC17 by miR397. Transgenic Arabidopsis were generated to analyze the biological functions of CsiLAC4 and CsiLAC17. CsiLAC4’s role in xylem lignification was determined by mRNA hybridization and cytochemistry. In situ B distribution was analyzed by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

CsiLAC4 and CsiLAC17 are predominantly localized in the apoplast of tobacco epidermal cells. Overexpression of CsiLAC4 in Arabidopsis improves the plants’ tolerance to boric acid excess by triggering high‐B‐dependent lignification of the vascular system’s cell wall and reducing free B content in roots and shoots. In Citrus, CsiLAC4 is expressed explicitly in the xylem parenchyma and is modulated by B‐responsive miR397. Upregulation of CsiLAC4 in Citrus results in lignification of the xylem cell walls, restricting B flow from xylem vessels to the phloem.

CsiLAC4 contributes to plant tolerance to boric acid excess via high‐B‐dependent lignification of cell walls, which set up a ‘physical barrier’ preventing B flow.
A phosphorus‐limitation induced, functionally conserved DUF506 protein is a repressor of root hair elongation in plants
Authors: Ying Sheng , Blancaflor Elison B. , Liao Fuqi , Scheible Wolf‐Rüdiger
Published: November 2021

Root hairs (RHs) function in nutrient and water acquisition, root metabolite exudation, soil anchorage and plant–microbe interactions. Longer or more abundant RHs are potential breeding traits for developing crops that are more resource‐use efficient and can improve soil health.

While many genes are known to promote RH elongation, relatively little is known about genes and mechanisms that constrain RH growth.

Here we demonstrate that a DOMAIN OF UNKNOWN FUNCTION 506 (DUF506) protein, AT3G25240, negatively regulates Arabidopsis thaliana RH growth. The AT3G25240 gene is strongly and specifically induced during phosphorus (P)‐limitation. Mutants of this gene, which we call REPRESSOR OF EXCESSIVE ROOT HAIR ELONGATION 1 (RXR1), have much longer RHs, higher phosphate content and seedling biomass, while overexpression of the gene exhibits opposite phenotypes. Co‐immunoprecipitation, pull‐down and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) analyses reveal that RXR1 physically interacts with a RabD2c GTPase in nucleus, and a rabd2c mutant phenocopies the rxr1 mutant. Furthermore, N‐terminal variable region of RXR1 is crucial for inhibiting RH growth. Overexpression of a Brachypodium distachyon RXR1 homolog results in repression of RH elongation in Brachypodium.

Taken together, our results reveal a novel DUF506‐GTPase module with a prominent role in repression of plant RH elongation especially under P stress.
Clinical important improvement of chronic pain patients in randomized controlled trials and the DATAPAIN cohort
Authors: Waardenburg Sophie , de Meij Nelleke , Brouwer Brigitte , Van Zundert Jan , van Kuijk Sander M.J.
Published: November 2021

Background

Change on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) is based on subjective pain experience, hampering the establishment of clinically important improvement. An anchor‐based method, the Patients’ Global Impression of Change (PGIC), is often added to determine whether a patient has improved. A two‐point change on the NRS has been shown to be equivalent to a moderate clinically important improvement in randomized controlled trials (RCT’s) on medication effects. We contemplated whether these findings could be reproduced in cohort and data and in non‐drug interventional RCT’s.

Methods

The NRS change was quantified by subtracting the NRS of baseline from the NRS at 6‐month follow‐up. Categorization of success/nonsuccess was applied on the PGIC, and their average NRS raw changes were calculated. The Spearman correlation coefficient quantified the overall relationship, while the discriminative ability was explored through the receiver operating characteristic curve. Data were stratified on design, sex, and pain intensity at baseline. Besides, the cohort evaluated treatment status at follow‐up.

Results

The records of 1661 patients were examined. Overall, the observed NRS change needed for moderate clinically important improvement was larger than the average two points. Yet, the changes in the cohort were smaller compared with the RCT’s. Moreover, it modified with pain intensity at baseline and treatment statuses indicated differences in mean clinical importance of −4.15 (2.70) when finalized at 6 months and −2.16 (2.48) when treatment was ongoing.

Conclusion

The moderate clinically important improvement varied substantially, representing heterogeneity in pain relief and its relation to treatment success in chronic pain patients.
Comparison of intravenous and oral administration of acetaminophen in adults undergoing general anesthesia
Authors: Cao Qinqin , Fan Chengjuan , Yuan Ran , Dong Hemin , Zhang Shouxin , Meng Haihong
Published: November 2021

Background

Acetaminophen is a widely clinically used analgesic. However, the clinical effect of the route of administration on postoperative analgesia as well as on postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing general anesthesia remains unclear. This study aimed to explore whether the route of administration of acetaminophen affects postoperative analgesia, nausea, and vomiting in patients undergoing general anesthesia.

Methods

We included all randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of the route of administration of acetaminophen on postoperative pain, nausea, and vomiting in patients undergoing general anesthesia. Independent examiners reviewed the literature and extracted data, with disagreements resolved through negotiation or the involvement of a third party. The Cochrane risk assessment tool was used to evaluate the quality of the included randomized controlled trials. A narrative synthesis was conducted to summarize the qualitative information from the included studies. A meta‐integration of quantitative data was performed using RevMan 5.4.

Results

Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. Eight studies assessed postoperative pain, whereas two assessed postoperative nausea and vomiting. Data from the eight studies assessing postoperative pain confirmed that there was no difference between intravenously and orally administered acetaminophen in adults (OR = −0.13; 95% CI, −0.36 to 0.11; p = 0.3). Data from the two studies assessing postoperative nausea and vomiting revealed no difference between intravenously and orally administered acetaminophen in adults (OR = 0.89; 95% CI, 0.64–1.25; p = 0.51). The included studies were of poor quality, with a heterogeneity of 68%.

Conclusions

No differences in postoperative analgesia or postoperative nausea and vomiting were observed between the routes of administration (intravenous vs. oral) of acetaminophen in adult patients undergoing general anesthesia. There is a need for future large sample studies to increase the reliability of the results.
Ordinary Language Philosophy as an Extension of Ideal Language Philosophy. Comparing the Methods of the Later Wittgenstein and P.F. Strawson
Authors: De Mesel Benjamin
Published: November 2021

The idea that thought and language can be clarified through logical methods seems problematic because, while thought and language are not always exact, logic (by its very nature) must be. According to Kuusela, ideal (ILP, represented by Frege and Russell) and ordinary language philosophy (OLP, represented by Strawson) offer opposed solutions to this problem, and Wittgenstein combines the advantages of both. I argue that, given Kuusela’s characterisation of OLP, Strawson was not an OLP’er. I suggest that, instead of seeing ILP and OLP as opposed to one another, it is better to regard OLP as an extension of ILP.
Optimal mechanical force‐velocity profile for sprint acceleration performance
Authors: Samozino Pierre , Peyrot Nicolas , Edouard Pascal , Nagahara Ryu , Jimenez‐Reyes Pedro , Vanwanseele Benedicte , Morin Jean‐Benoit
Published: November 2021

The aim was to determine the respective influences of sprinting maximal power output () and mechanical Force‐velocity (F‐v) profile (ie, ratio between horizontal force production capacities at low and high velocities) on sprint acceleration performance. A macroscopic biomechanical model using an inverse dynamics approach applied to the athlete's center of mass during running acceleration was developed to express the time to cover a given distance as a mathematical function of and F‐v profile. Simulations showed that sprint acceleration performance depends mainly on , but also on the F‐v profile, with the existence of an individual optimal F‐v profile corresponding, for a given , to the best balance between force production capacities at low and high velocities. This individual optimal profile depends on and sprint distance: the lower the sprint distance, the more the optimal F‐v profile is oriented to force capabilities and vice versa. When applying this model to the data of 231 athletes from very different sports, differences between optimal and actual F‐v profile were observed and depend more on the variability in the optimal F‐v profile between sprint distances than on the interindividual variability in F‐v profiles. For a given sprint distance, acceleration performance (<30 m) mainly depends on and slightly on the difference between optimal and actual F‐v profile, the weight of each variable changing with sprint distance. Sprint acceleration performance is determined by both maximization of the horizontal power output capabilities and the optimization of the mechanical F‐v profile of sprint propulsion.
Effects of balance training with stroboscopic glasses on postural control in chronic ankle instability patients
Authors: Lee Hyunwook , Han Seunguk , Page Garritt , Bruening Dustin A. , Seeley Matthew K. , Hopkins J. Ty
Published: November 2021

Individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) are believed to rely more on visual information during postural control due to impaired proprioceptive function, which may increase the risk of injury when their vision is limited during sports activities.

Objectives

To compare (1) the effects of balance training with and without stroboscopic glasses on postural control and (2) the effects of the training on visual reliance in patients with CAI.

Design

A randomized controlled clinical trial.

Methods

Twenty‐eight CAI patients were equally assigned to one of 2 groups: strobe or control group. The strobe group wore stroboscopic glasses during a 4‐week balance training. Static postural control, a single‐leg hop balance test calculated by Dynamic Postural Stability Index (DPSI), and the Y‐Balance test (YBT) were measured. During the tests, there were different visual conditions: eyes‐open (EO), eyes‐closed (EC), and strobe vision (SV). Romberg ratios were then calculated as SV/EO, and EC/EO and used for statistical analysis.

Results

The strobe group showed a higher pretest‐posttest difference in velocity in the medial‐lateral direction and vertical stability index under SV compared with the control group (p < .05). The strobe group showed higher differences in EC/EO for velocity in the medial‐lateral and anterior‐posterior directions, and 95% confidence ellipse area (p < .05), and in SV/EO for velocity in the medial‐lateral, 95% confidence ellipse area, and YBT‐anterior direction (p < .05).

Conclusion

The 4‐week balance training with stroboscopic glasses appeared to be effective in improving postural control and altering visual reliance in patients with CAI.
Dynamic spatio‐temporal flow modeling with raster DEMs
Authors: Nilsson Hampus , Pilesjö Petter , Hasan Abdulghani , Persson Andreas
Published: November 2021

A user‐friendly high‐resolution intermediate complexity dynamic and spatially distributed flow model is crucial in urban flood modeling. Planners and consultants need to improve the accuracy of floods and estimation of risks. A new flow model will serve as a rapid tool to improve identification of these. This article provides a detailed explanation of a model based on a multiple flow algorithm. Model testing was performed on selected urban and rural areas. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis is conducted to analyze functionality. The model includes basic hydrological processes and is therefore less complex than fully physical models. The data needed to set up and run the new model include spatially and temporally distributed basic geometric and hydrologic variables (i.e., digital elevation model, precipitation, infiltration, and surface roughness). The model is implemented using open‐source coding and can easily be applied to any selected area. Outputs are water volumes, depths, and velocities at different modeling times. Using GIS, results can be visualized and utilized for further analyses. The test, applied in urban as well as rural areas, demonstrates its user‐friendliness, and that the estimated distributed water depths and water velocity at any time step can be saved and visualized.
Arabidopsis SKU5 Similar 11 and 12 play crucial roles in pollen tube integrity, growth and guidance
Authors: Duan Yazhou , Wang Limin , Li Xueling , Wang Wanlei , Wang Jing , Liu Xiaoyu , Zhong Yangyang , Cao Nana , Tong Mengjuan , Ge Weina , Guo Yi , Li Rui
Published: November 2021

Pollen tube integrity, growth and guidance are crucial factors in plant sexual reproduction. Members of the plant Skewed5 (SKU5) Similar (SKS) family show strong similarity to multicopper oxidases (MCOs), but they lack conserved histidines in MCO active sites. The functions of most SKS family members are unknown. Here, we show that Arabidopsis pollen‐expressedSKS11andSKS12play important roles in pollen tube integrity, growth and guidance. Thesks11sks12mutant exhibited significantly reduced male fertility. Most of the pollen fromsks11sks12plants burst when germinated, and the pollen tubes grew slowly and exhibited defective growth along the funiculus and micropyle. SKS11‐GFP and SKS12‐mCherry were detected at the cell wall in pollen tubes. The contents of several cell wall polysaccharides and arabinogalactans were decreased in the pollen tube cell walls ofsks11sks12plants. Staining with a reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐sensitive dye and use of the H2O2sensor HyPer revealed that the ROS content in the pollen tubes ofsks11sks12plants was remarkably reduced. SKS11444His‐Ala, in which the last conserved histidine was mutated, could restore the mutant phenotypes ofsks11sks12. Thus, SKS11/12 are required for pollen tube integrity, growth and guidance possibly by regulating the ROS level and cell wall polysaccharide deposition or remodeling in pollen tubes.
Are severe adverse events commonly observed in dogs during cancer chemotherapy? A retrospective study on 155 dogs
Authors: Chavalle Thomas , Chamel Gabriel , Denoeux Pauline , Lajoinie Mathilde , Sayag David , Berny Philippe , Ponce Frédérique
Published: November 2021

Overall prevalence of severe adverse events (sAE) has been poorly studied in veterinary medicine and peer‐reviewed studies mostly focused on a single protocol, making it difficult to have a general overview. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the frequency and risk factors of sAE secondary to various protocols of chemotherapy in dogs. Medical records of 155 dogs receiving chemotherapy between January 2013 and December 2018 were reviewed. Adverse events (AE) were graded according to Veterinary Comparative Oncology Group‐common terminology criteria for AE (VCOG‐CTCAE) grading system. Statistical analyses were performed to determine whether demographic, cancer type and chemotherapy protocol were associated with development of sAE and their consequences. AE were reported at least once in 124 (80%) dogs and sAE were observed in 50 (32.3%) dogs. Among them, 23 (14.8%) had gastro‐intestinal and 31 (20.0%) had myelotoxic events. sAE led to hospitalisation in 37 (23.9%) dogs, to chemotherapy arrest in 12 (7.7%) dogs and to euthanasia or death in 9 (5.8%) dogs. Haematopoietic tumours were statistically associated with a higher frequency of sAE (p = .004), gastrointestinal sAE (p = .009) and hospitalisation (p = .004). A body weight over 10 kg was associated with less haematological sAE (p < .001). The use of a multi‐agent protocol was highlighted as a risk factor for sAE (p = .038) and haematological sAE (p < .001). sAE following chemotherapy and leading to hospitalisation, chemo arrest or death were relatively common. A special attention during chemotherapy follow‐up should be given to small dogs and those receiving multi‐agent protocol or treated for haematopoietic tumours.
The effects of bit chewing on borborygmi, duodenal motility, and gastrointestinal transit time in clinically normal horses
Authors: Patton Molly E. , Leise Britta S. , Baker Rose E. , Andrews Frank M.
Published: November 2021

Objective

To determine the influence of bit chewing on gastrointestinal transit in clinically normal horses.

Study design

Prospective crossover designed study.

Animals

Six healthy adult horses.

Methods

Horses were assigned randomly to treatment (apple flavored bit) and control (no‐bit) groups and studied for 2 × 1‐week trial periods with a 2‐week washout period between trials. Horses were fasted for 24 h and slowly refed over 3 days. The bit was placed for 20 min every 6 h. Duodenal contractions and borborygmi auscultations were evaluated every 12 h, approximately 5 min following bit placement. Gastrointestinal total transit time (GI TTT) was measured by administering 200 colored beads via stomach tube and then collected in the manure until 50% and 80% were recovered. Measured variables were compared using an ANOVA or Wilcoxon signed‐rank test and the P value was noted.

Results

The GI TTT was shortened in the bit chewing group (median: 106.37 h, range: 70‐171 h) compared to the no‐bit group (median: 170.1 h, range: 149‐186 h) (P = .0156) at 80% bead passage (only 4/6 horses passed 80%). Borborygmi (P = .8193), duodenal contractions (P = .2605), and 50% bead passage (P = .0781) showed no differences.

Conclusion

Bit chewing was safe, inexpensive, and well tolerated. Bit chewing shortened GI TTT and might be an adjunct therapy to augment GI TTT. Further clinical studies are warranted.

Clinical significance

Ileus is a common complication following equine abdominal surgery with no current consistently successful treatment. Bit chewing may be a simple and inexpensive way to augment progressive GI motility.
Determination of Ketosteroids in Human Urine Using Dispersive Liquid-Liquid Microextraction and Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Dmitrieva E. V. , Temerdashev A. Z. , Osipova A. K.
Published: November 2021

A method is proposed for the determination of some ketosteroids in human urine, including enzymatic hydrolysis using β-glucuronidase from E. coli followed by dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction, derivatization of analytes with hydroxylamine, and detection by reversed-phase ultra-HPLC–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Optimization of extraction and derivatization conditions of the studied compounds made it possible to find that the highest recoveries were achieved using an acetone–chloroform mixture as a dispersant and an extractant, and the completeness of the derivatization reaction was achieved by thermostating the sample at 70°C for 90 min. The proposed method has high sensitivity (limits of detection in the range of 0.1–0.25 ng/mL) and a wide linearity range.
Mathematical Modelling in Analytical Chromatography: Problems and Solutions
Authors: Dolgonosov A. M. , Prudkovskii A. G. , Zaitseva E. A. , Kolotilina N. K. , Dolgonosov A. A.
Published: November 2021

Based on an analysis of the results of original research performed in the Laboratory of Sorption Methods of the Vernadsky Institute of Geochemistry and Analytical Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences within the project “Mathematical Chromatograph,” the review covers the aim and strategy of the imitation modeling of high-performance chromatography; associated problems of the theory of intermolecular interactions; classifications of polar stationary phases by their selectivity; descriptions of the kinetics and dynamics of sorption processes, choice of the composition of multicomponent mobile phases in HPLC and ion chromatography using the method of the dynamic map of a chromatographic system; and the development of alternating gradient modes using a mathematical experiment.
Assessing the impact of polio supplementary immunisation activities on routine immunisation and health systems: a systematic review
Authors: Vassallo Amy , Dunbar Kimberly , Ajuwon Busayo , Lowbridge Christopher , Kirk Martyn , King Catherine , Sheel Meru
Published: November 2021

Introduction

The Global Polio Eradication Initiative uses polio supplementary immunisation activities (SIAs) as a strategy to increase vaccine coverage and cease poliovirus transmission. Impact of polio SIAs on immunisation systems is frequently debated. We reviewed the impact of polio SIAs on routine immunisation and health systems during the modern era of polio eradication.

Methods

We searched nine databases for studies reporting on polio SIAs and immunisation coverage, financial investment, workforce and health services delivery. We conducted a narrative synthesis of evidence. Records prior to 1994, animal, modelling or case studies data were excluded.

Results

20/1637 unique records were included. Data on vaccine coverage were included in 70% (14/20) studies, workforce in 65% (13/20) and health services delivery in 85% (17/20). SIAs positively contributed to vaccination uptake of non-polio vaccines in seven studies, neutral in three and negative in one. Some polio SIAs contributed to workforce strengthening through training and capacity building. Polio SIAs were accompanied with increased social mobilisation and community awareness building confidence in vaccination programmes. Included studies were programmatic in nature and contained variable data, thus could not be justly critically appraised.

Conclusion

Polio SIAs are successful at increasing polio vaccine coverage, but the resources and infrastructures were not always utilised for delivery of non-polio vaccines and integration into routine service delivery. We found a gap in standardised tools to evaluate SIAs, which can then inform service integration. Our study provides data to inform SIAs evaluations, and provides important considerations for COVID-19 vaccine roll-out to strengthen health systems.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020152195.