bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fulcrum to Generate Maximum Extension of the Spine and Hip—Proposing A New Strategy using EOS Imaging for Patient-specific Assessment of Degenerated Lumbar Spines
Authors: Hey Hwee Weng Dennis , Tay Hui Wen , Wong Gordon Chengyuan , Tan Kimberly-Anne , Lau Eugene Tze-Chun , Wong Seng Juong , Liu Ka-Po Gabriel , Wong Hee-Kit
Published: March 2021

Study Design.

A retrospective, radiographic comparative study conducted in a single academic institution.

Objective.

This study aims to compare fulcrum extension with conventional extension imaging to determine maximum “hip lordosis” (HL), an important novel patient-specific parameter in spinal realignment surgery, as well as understand the extension capabilities of the lower lumbar spine, which together, are key contributors to whole-body balancing.

Summary of Background Data.

Recent literature recognizes the hip as an important contributor to whole-body lordosis beyond a compensator for spinal imbalance.

Methods.

Patients >45 years’ old with mechanical low back pain due to degenerative spinal conditions were included and grouped based on the imaging performed—fulcrum or conventional extension. All imaging was performed using EOS under standardized instructions and visual aids. Radiographic parameters include global lumbar angle (GLA), inflexion-S1 (Inf-S1) angle, segmental lumbar angles, pelvic incidence (PI), sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), femoral alignment angle (FAA), HL and spinocoxa angle (SCA). Unpaired t test was used to compare between radiographic parameters.

Results.

One hundred patients (40 males and 60 females, mean age 63.0 years) underwent either fulcrum or conventional extension EOS® imaging. Both groups had comparable baseline radiographic parameters. Fulcrum extension gave a larger mean GLA (−60.7° vs. −48.5°, P = 0.001), Inf-S1 angle (−58.8° vs. −48.8°, P = 0.003), SCA (−36.5° vs. −24.8°, P < 0.001), L4/5 and L5/S1 lordosis (−20.7° vs. −17.7°, P = 0.041, and −22.3° vs. −17.1°, P = 0.018, respectively), compared to conventional extension. PI, SS, PT, FAA, and HL were similar between both extension postures.

Conclusion.

Fulcrum extension, compared to conventional extension, is better at generating lordosis in the lower lumbar spine, thus improving preoperative assessment of stiffness or instability of the lumbar spine. Both extension methods were equally effective at determining the patient-specific maximum HL to assess the flexibility and compensation occurring at the hip, potentially guiding surgical management of patients with degenerative spines.

Level of Evidence: 3
Comparison of two vasopressor protocols for preventing hypotension post-spinal anesthesia during cesarean section: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Fan Qian-Qian , Wang Yong-Hui , Fu Jing-Wen , Dong Hai-Long , Yang Man-Ping , Liu Duo-Duo , Jiang Xiao-Fan , Wu Zhi-Xin , Xiong Li-Ze , Lu Zhi-Hong
Published: March 2021

Background:

Norepinephrine infusion decreases hypotension after spinal anesthesia during cesarean section. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of norepinephrine infusion and ephedrine bolus against post-spinal hypotension in parturients.

Methods:

In this double-blinded, randomized controlled clinical trial, parturients scheduled for elective cesarean section were randomly allocated to receive norepinephrine infusion (0.05 μg·kg−1·min−1) just before spinal anesthesia continuing for 30 min or ephedrine bolus (0.15 mg/kg) just before spinal anesthesia. A rescue bolus (5 μg norepinephrine for the norepinephrine group, and 5 mg ephedrine for the ephedrine group) was administered whenever hypotension occurred. Our primary outcome was the incidence of hypotension within 30 min of spinal anesthesia administration. Secondary outcomes included maternal and neonatal outcomes 30 min after spinal block, and neonatal cerebral oxygenation 10 min after birth.

Results:

In total, 190 patients were enrolled; of these patients, 177 were included in the final analysis. Fewer patients suffered hypotension in the norepinephrine group than in the ephedrine group (29.5% vs. 44.9%, odds ratio [OR]: 0.51, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.28–0.95, P = 0.034). Moreover, the tachycardia frequency was lower in the norepinephrine group than in the ephedrine group (OR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.11–0.44, P < 0.001), and patients suffered less nausea and vomiting (OR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.11–0.70, P = 0.004). There was no difference in Apgar scores and umbilical arterial blood gas analysis between the two groups. However, neonatal cerebral regional saturations were significantly higher after birth in the norepinephrine group than in the ephedrine group (mean difference: 2.0%, 95% CI: 0.55%–3.45%, P = 0.008).

Conclusion:

In patients undergoing elective cesarean section with spinal anesthesia, norepinephrine infusion compared to ephedrine bolus resulted in less hypotension and tachycardia, and exhibited potential neonatal benefits.

Trial Registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02542748; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT02542748
Types of Stroke Among People Living With HIV in the United States
Authors: Crane Heidi M. , Nance Robin M. , Avoundjian Tigran , Harding Barbara N. , Whitney Bridget M. , Chow Felicia C. , Becker Kyra J. , Marra Christina M. , Zunt Joseph R. , Ho Emily L. , Kalani Rizwan , Huffer Andrew , Burkholder Greer A. , Willig Amanda L. , Moore Richard D. , Mathews William C. , Eron Joseph J. , Napravnik Sonia , Lober William B. , Barnes Greg S. , McReynolds Justin , Feinstein Matthew J. , Heckbert Susan R. , Saag Michael S. , Kitahata Mari M. , Delaney Joseph A.C. , Tirschwell David L.
Published: March 2021

Background:

Most studies of stroke in people living with HIV (PLWH) do not use verified stroke diagnoses, are small, and/or do not differentiate stroke types and subtypes.

Setting:

CNICS, a U.S. multisite clinical cohort of PLWH in care.

Methods:

We implemented a centralized adjudication stroke protocol to identify stroke type, subtype, and precipitating conditions identified as direct causes including infection and illicit drug use in a large diverse HIV cohort.

Results:

Among 26,514 PLWH, there were 401 strokes, 75% of which were ischemic. Precipitating factors such as sepsis or same-day cocaine use were identified in 40% of ischemic strokes. Those with precipitating factors were younger, had more severe HIV disease, and fewer traditional stroke risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension. Ischemic stroke subtypes included cardioembolic (20%), large vessel atherosclerosis (13%), and small vessel (24%) ischemic strokes. Individuals with small vessel strokes were older, were more likely to have a higher current CD4 cell count than those with cardioembolic strokes and had the highest mean blood pressure of the ischemic stroke subtypes.

Conclusion:

Ischemic stroke, particularly small vessel and cardioembolic subtypes, were the most common strokes among PLWH. Traditional and HIV-related risk factors differed by stroke type/subtype. Precipitating factors including infections and drug use were common. These results suggest that there may be different biological phenomena occurring among PLWH and that understanding HIV-related and traditional risk factors and in particular precipitating factors for each type/subtype may be key to understanding, and therefore preventing, strokes among PLWH.
Three Different FDG Patterns in Periventricular Nodular Heterotopia Correlated to Video Stereoelectroencephalography
Authors: Bund Caroline , Hirsch Maria Paola Valenti , Ollivier Irène , Hirsch Edouard , Namer Izzie Jacques
Published: March 2021

A 40-year-old woman with a drug-resistant focal epilepsy underwent cerebral FDG PET in phase 1 presurgical epilepsy study. MRI essentially showed multiple periventricular nodular heterotopias. The stereoelectroencephalography coupled to MRI and FDG PET helped to define the anatomofunctional correlation of the epileptogenic zone network. This procedure brought to light 3 distinct patterns of FDG consumption, corresponding to different anatomoelectroclinical features. This pattern was already found in a previous FDG PET reflecting a “stable” permanent intralesional intercritical stereoelectroencephalography activity, an electrical “signature” of the lesion. Finally, functional imaging improved thermocoagulation in this patient and emphasized the use of FDG in drug-resistant epilepsy.
YAP1 induces invadopodia formation by transcriptionally activating TIAM1 through its enhancer in breast cancer
Authors: Shen Jie , Huang Qingwen , Feng Shengjie , Jia Weiyi , Liu Liang , Li Xiaolan , Tao Deding , Xie Daxing
Published: March 2021

Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1), a central component of the Hippo pathway, plays an important role in tumor metastasis; however, the mechanism remains to be elucidated. Here, we reported that YAP1 could induce invadopodia formation and promote tumor metastasis in breast cancer cells. We identified that TIAM1, the guanine nucleotide exchange factor, is a target of YAP1-TEAD4 complex. YAP1 promotes TEAD4 binding to the enhancer region of TIAM1, which activates TIAM1 expression and subsequently increases RAC1 activity. These findings reveal the functional role of Hippo signaling in invadopodia, and provide potential molecular targets for preventing tumor metastasis in breast cancer.

Significance

Through regulating the enhancer region of TIAM1, YAP1 induces invadopodia formation and promotes tumor metastasis in breast cancer.
The complete mitochondrial genome of a parthenogenetic antMonomorium triviale(Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Idogawa Naoto , Lee Chih-Chi , Yang Chin-Cheng Scotty , Dobata Shigeto
Published: March 2021

Monomoriumis one of the most species-rich yet taxonomically problematic ant genus. An East Asian species,M. trivialeWheeler, W.M., 1906, are reproduced by obligate thelytokous parthenogenesis and performs strict reproductive division of labor. We sequenced theM. trivialemitogenome using next-generation sequencing methods. The circular mitogenome ofM. trivialewas 16,290 bp in length, consisting of 13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNAs, and a single non-coding region of 568 bp. The base composition was AT-biased (82%). Gene order rearrangements were detected and likely to be unique to the genusMonomorium. We announce theM. trivialemitogenome as additional genomic resources for elucidating phylogenetic and taxonomic problems ofMonomoriumand comparative genomics of parthenogenetic ant species.
Identification ofin vivoCFTR conformations during biogenesis and upon misfolding by covalent protein painting (CPP)
Authors: Pankow Sandra , Bamberger Casimir , Martínez-Bartolomé Salvador , Park Sung-Kyu , Yates John R.
Published: March 2021

In vivocharacterization of protein structures or protein structural changes after perturbation is a major challenge. Therefore, experiments to characterize protein structures are typically performedin vitroand with highly purified proteins or protein complexes. Using a novel low-resolution method named Covalent Protein Painting (CPP) that allows the characterization of protein conformationsin vivo, we are the first to report how an ion channel, the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR), is conformationally changed during biogenesis and channel opening in the cell. Our study led to the identification of a novel opening mechanism for CFTR by revealing that the interaction of the intracellular loop 2 (ICL2) with the nucleotide binding domain 2 (NDB2) of CFTR is needed for channel gating, and this interaction occurs concomitantly with changes to the narrow part of the pore and the walker A lysine in NBD1. However, the ICL2:NBD2 interface, which forms a “ball-in-a-socket” motif, is uncoupled during biogenesis, likely to prevent inadvertent channel activation during transport. In particular, solvent accessibility of lysine 273 (K273) in ICL2 changes with the opening and closing of the channel. Mutation of K273 severely impaired CFTR biogenesis and led to accumulation of CFTR in the Golgi and TGN. CPP further revealed that, even upon treatment with current approved drugs or at permissive temperature, the uncoupled state of ICL2 is a prominent feature of the misfolded CFTR mutants ΔF508 and N1303K that cause Cystic Fibrosis (CF), which suggests that stabilization of this interface could produce a more efficient CF drug. CPP is able to characterize a protein in its native environment and measure the effect of complex PTMs and protein interactions on protein structure, making it broadly applicable and invaluable for the development of new therapies.
Urequinona, a molecule from the root ofPentalinon andrieuxiiMuell-Arg healsLeishmania mexicanaear’s infection in mice: This plant is widely used by the Mayan traditional medicine
Authors: Isaac-Márquez AP , Lezama-Dávila CM
Published: March 2021

In this work we tested both thein vitroandin vivoanti-Leishmania mexicanaactivity of a molecule we originally identified in the root ofPentalinon andrieuxiiMuell-Arg, a plant that is widely used in Mayan traditional medicine. The chemical name of this molecule is 24-methylcholesta-4-24(28)-dien-3-one and for simplicity we assigned the short and trivial name of urequinona that will be used throughout this work. It induces necrosis and apoptosis of promastigotes culturedin vitroand extensive ultrastructural damage of both promastigotes and amastigotes. It also induces production of Interleukin (IL)-2 and interferon (IFN)-γ by splenic cells from infected and urequinona treated mice stimulatedin vitrowith parasite antigen (Ag) but inhibits production of IL-6 and IL-12p70 by bone marrow derived macrophages (BMM) infectedin vitroand then treated with urequinona. It also induces activation of transcription factors such as NFkB and AP-1 (NFkB/AP-1) in RAW reporter cells. We also developed a novel pharmaceutical preparation of urequinona encapsulated in hydroxyethyl cellulose for dermal application that significantly reduced experimentally induced ear′s lesions of C57BL/6 mice. We conclude the preparation containing this molecule is a good candidate for a novel anti-leishmanial drug′s preparation.
Study on Changes in Tourism Land and Influence Factors in Mountain Areas: A Case Study of Luanchuan County, China
Authors: Xie Yanna , Zhu Qingxiao
Published: March 2021

The rapid development of the tourism industry in mountain areas has resulted in intense changes in land use structure and exerts a strong influence on terrestrial ecosystems. This paper takes Luanchuan County (typical mountainous terrain in western Henan Province, China) as an example and employs land use data from different times and spaces and the binary logistic method to study tourism land spatial variation and influence factors in mountain areas. The research shows that: (1) spatial variation in land use in scenic spots reveals a chain reaction of land use type transformation caused by construction land expansion, a key driving force of spatial variation in land use and land use type transformation, and (2) the changes in tourism land use types result from human utilization and development of land for economic benefits. The key influence factors of spatial variation in land use are altitude; gradient; and the distance to rivers, highways and villages. (3) A plan of tourism land management and control should be established with construction land as the key indicator.
Analysis of coding variants in the human FTO gene from the ExAC (gnomAD) Database
Authors: Ferreira Souza Mauro Lúcio , de Sousa Jaime Viana , Guerreiro João Farias
Published: March 2021

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the first intron of the FTO gene (alpha-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase) identified by a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in 2007 continue to be the known variants with the greatest effect on adiposity in different human populations. Currently available data reveal a total of 61 different intronic SNPs associated with adiposity. Coding variants in the FTO gene, on the other hand, have been little explored, but data from complete sequencing of the exomes of various populations are available in public databases and provide an excellent opportunity to investigate potential functional variants in FTO. This study aimed to track nonsynonymous variants in the exons of the FTO gene in different population groups using the ExAC database (gnomAD) (http://exac.broadinstitute.org/) and to analyze the potential functional impact of these variants on the FTO protein. Variants were analyzed using five publicly available pathogenicity prediction programs. Of the 158 mutations identified (152 missense and 6 stop-gain), 64 (40.5%) were classified as pathogenic, 67 (42.4%) were classified as benign, and 27 (17%) were classified as inconclusive. Thirty variants were classified as pathogenic by all five predictors used in this study, and 16 mutations were classified as pathogenic by only one predictor. The largest number of mutations was found in Europeans (non-Finnish) (85/158), all with very low frequencies, and half (32/64) of the variants classified as pathogenic by the five predictors used were also found in this population. The data obtained in this analysis show that a large number of rare coding variants classified as pathogenic or potentially pathogenic by different in silico pathogenicity prediction programs are not detected by GWAS due to the low linkage disequilibrium as well as the limitations of GWAS in capturing rare variants present in less than 1.0% of the population.
The landscape of accessible chromatin in quiescent and post-myocardial infarction cardiac fibroblasts
Authors: Li Chaoyang , Sun Jiangwen , Liu Qianglin , Dodlapati Sanjeeva , Ming Hao , Wang Leshan , Li Yuxia , Li Rui , Jiang Zongliang , Francis Joseph , Fu Xing
Published: March 2021

After myocardial infarction, quiescent cardiac fibroblasts are activated and undergo multiple proliferation and differentiation events, which contribute to the extracellular matrix remodeling of the infarcted myocardium. We recently found that cardiac fibroblasts of different differentiation states had distinct expression profiles closely related to their functions. Gene expression is directly regulated by chromatin state. However, the role of chromatin reorganization in the drastic gene expression changes during post-MI differentiation of cardiac fibroblast has not been revealed. In this study, the gene expression profiling and genome-wide mapping of accessible chromatin in mouse cardiac fibroblasts isolated from uninjured hearts and the infarcts at different time points were performed by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and the assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with high-throughput sequencing (ATAC-seq), respectively. ATAC-seq peaks were highly enriched in the promoter area and distal areas where enhancers might be located. A positive correlation was identified between the transcription level and promoter accessibility for many dynamically expressed genes. In addition, it was found that DNA methylation may contribute to the post-MI chromatin remodeling and gene expression in cardiac fibroblasts. Integrated analysis of ATAC-seq and RNA-seq datasets also identified transcription factors that possibly contributed to the differential gene expression between cardiac fibroblasts of different states.
Inclusion and employee engagement of nonfamily employees in family firms: moderating influence of procedural justice
Authors: Razzak Mohammad Rezaur , Khan Golam Mostafa , AlAbri Salem
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study investigates the influence of inclusion of nonfamily employees in family firms on their intellectual, social and affective engagement at the workplace. Furthermore, the framework proposed in the study considers the possible moderating influence of procedural justice in the above relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework is developed with the support of the self-determination theory (SDT) and the social exchange theory. The study tests a set of hypotheses using survey data from 654 nonfamily employees working in private family firms in Malaysia.

Findings

The results reveal that inclusion has a positive and significant relationship with intellectual, social and affective engagement. While procedural justice moderates the association between inclusion and intellectual and affective engagement, it does not moderate the relationship between inclusion and social engagement.

Research limitations/implications

The outcome of this study presents a nuanced understanding on how perceptions of inclusion of nonfamily employees by the dominant work group (DWG) (i.e. employees related to the firm owners) lead to positive firm-centric behavior among nonfamily employees.

Practical implications

The study provides clues to family firm managers for creating a work environment where nonfamily employees perceive a sense of belongingness while their uniqueness is appreciated in order to be more engaged at the workplace.

Social implications

Little is known about how diversity created within family firms by inclusion of nonfamily employees impacts organizations. The outcome of this study may reinforce the positive effects of inclusiveness in any social context.

Originality/value

Diversity researchers have studied the influence of inclusion in areas related to sociology and psychology. However, there appears to be a dearth of studies in terms of how nonfamily employees would behave in family firms when they perceive a sense of inclusion in an organization dominated by employees who are related to the owners of the firm. Hence, this study appears to shed new light on how inclusion of nonfamily employees in family firms influences their behavior.
Media students using mobile phones in the Arabian Gulf to improve English writing and video production skills
Authors: AlSaied Najat , Akhtar Fokiya
Published: March 2021

Purpose

A variety of alternate technology-enhanced teaching approaches are now available to university students to broaden their learning experiences and complement conventional face-to-face teaching. This paper aims to outline a study conducted at an English Medium Instruction (EMI) University in the Arabian Gulf where students were studying media. The study explored an innovative teaching approach that sought to enhance the students’ interaction with mobile phone applications as part of their learning experiences during the course.

Design/methodology/approach

The focus of the study was on enhancing the students’ English writing skills such as vocabulary, spelling and grammar and on improving their technical skills such as in video production. The study collected both quantitative and qualitative data.

Findings

The results indicated that mobile phone applications were helpful in improving students’ journalistic writing skills where they had a good level of proficiency in English, more so than students with poor English who are more dependent on traditional learning methods. Students also benefitted from mobile phone video production workshops that were intensive and creative. Based on the results of this study, it is recommended that courses and labs in media courses have skilled technicians that can train students in creative mobile phone video production while faculty members need to be trained and proactively encouraged to use mobile phones for teaching and learning purposes.

Originality/value

wBased on the results of this study, it is recommended that courses and labs in media courses have skilled technicians that can train students in creative mobile phone video production while faculty members need to be trained and proactively encouraged to use mobile phones for teaching and learning purposes.
Reactions to affirmative action policies in hiring: Effects of framing and beneficiary gender
Authors: Sinclair Samantha , Carlsson Rickard
Published: March 2021

Affirmative action policies aim to reduce gaps between social groups, yet they are often perceived negatively. The present research examined reactions to an organization's preferential treatment policy based on gender, focusing on whether positive versus negative framing of the scenario and gender of the beneficiary matter for these reactions. The results of two preregistered experiments conducted in Sweden (N = 556) did not provide support for the hypothesis that framing the affirmative action scenario as adding minority women compared to framing it as rejecting majority men would produce more favorable perceptions and reduced feelings of resentment. Moreover, we found no support for the hypothesis that the effects of framing would be weaker in the case of male beneficiaries compared to female beneficiaries. However, we found clear support for the hypothesis that the policy was perceived more favorably when the beneficiary was female rather than male. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Integrated molecular modeling techniques to reveal selective mechanisms of inhibitors to PI3Kδ with marketed Idelalisib
Authors: Zhu Jingyu , Jia Lei , Jiang Yingmin , Yu Qianqian , Xu Lei , Cai Yanfei , Chen Yun , Li Huazhong , Gang Huang , Liang Wenqing , Jin Jian
Published: March 2021

Phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase (PI3K) is important for cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, and the diverse physiological roles of different PI3K isoforms have highlighted the significance of the development of PI3Kδ inhibitors. A large number of PI3Kδ inhibitors have been reported after the FDA approval of Idelalisib, but the clinical use of Idelalisib was limited because of its serious side effects. Therefore, great efforts have been made on the development of PI3Kδ inhibitors with higher selectivity and lower toxicity, but there is no new PI3Kδ inhibitor coming into the market so far. Even so, as the first listed PI3K inhibitor, Idelalisib could be used as an effective tool to investigate the selective inhibition mechanism of PI3Kδ. Thus, in this study, a modeling strategy integrated 3D‐QSAR, pharmacophore model, and molecular dynamics simulation was employed to reveal the key chemical characteristics of Idelalisib analogs and the binding pattern between the inhibitors and PI3Kδ. First, the CoMFA model with high statistical significance was built to reveal the general structure–activity relationships. And then, a reliable pharmacophore model with a robust discrimination capability was constructed to expound the main chemical characteristics of the PI3Kδ inhibitors. Finally, molecular dynamics simulation was conducted to explore the binding modes and some key residues refer to δ‐selective binding were highlighted with binding‐free energy calculation. In summary, these models and results would provide some effective help for the discovery or the rational design of novel PI3Kδ inhibitors.
Prosthetic Rehabilitation of a Repaired Cleft Palate with Use of a Two‐Part Hinged Magnet Retained Removable Prosthesis
Authors: Krezel John Daniel , Friel Tim , Waia Sarah , Clark Paul , Taylor Philip Duncan
Published: March 2021

The presence of a cleft lip and palate is associated with a number of complications and the oral rehabilitation for the improvement of speech, function and esthetics can involve conventional and surgical orthodontics, distraction osteogenesis, fixed and removable prosthodontics, providing obturation of open defects if required. This clinical report describes the prosthodontic management of a patient with a repaired cleft lip and palate with significant maxillary hypoplasia and primary concern of aesthetics with the use of a two‐part hinged magnet retained removable prosthesis.
The impact of aquaculture field school on the shrimp and milkfish yield and income of farmers in Demak, Central Java
Authors: Widowati Lestari L. , Ariyati Restiana W. , Rejeki Sri , Bosma Roel H.
Published: March 2021

Traditional farmers of milkfish and shrimp use 80% of Indonesia's shrimp production area, but produce only 10% of its shrimp. A coastal protection project funded a 16‐day aquaculture field school (AFS) in order to train 277 farmers in Low External Input Sustainable Aquaculture (LEISA). Its cost was 1,060 USD per farmer. In 2017 and 2018, the project monitoring database completed records of yields and practices of 125 participants and monitored finances and water quality in a 10% sample. LEISA was adopted by 85% of the 125 participants. The two annual datasets of the sample were merged and trimmed from three outliers; this was done before statistical analysis. Compared to the baseline, LEISA adopters among the 125 tripled their shrimp' yields. Within the sample, the milkfish yields of adopters and non‐adopters were about identical. Sampled adopters significantly increased their gross margin by 927 USD ha−1 year−1 due to three‐ and fivefold yield increases for milkfish and shrimp compared to that of the baseline. The rate of return was 1.3 for the 277 participants and 1.8 for the sample, indicating a payback time of <1 year. Enriching the farmers' skills with AFS can double Indonesian milkfish production and increase its shrimp production by 25–50%.
Social dominance and rainfall predict telomere dynamics in a cooperative arid‐zone bird
Authors: Wood Emma M. , Capilla‐Lasheras Pablo , Cram Dominic L. , Walker Lindsay A. , York Jenny E. , Lange Anke , Hamilton Patrick B. , Tyler Charles R. , Young Andrew J.
Published: March 2021

In many vertebrate societies dominant individuals breed at substantially higher rates than subordinates, but whether this hastens ageing remains poorly understood. While frequent reproduction may trade off against somatic maintenance, the extraordinary fecundity and longevity of some social insect queens highlight that breeders need not always suffer more rapid somatic deterioration than their nonbreeding subordinates. Here, we used extensive longitudinal assessments of telomere dynamics to investigate the impact of dominance status on within‐individual age‐related changes in somatic integrity in a wild social bird, the white‐browed sparrow‐weaver (Plocepasser mahali). Dominant birds, who monopolise reproduction, had neither shorter telomeres nor faster telomere attrition rates over the long‐term (1–5 years) than their subordinates. However, over shorter (half‐year) time intervals dominants with shorter telomeres showed lower rates of telomere attrition (and evidence suggestive of telomere lengthening), while the same was not true among subordinates. Dominants may therefore invest more heavily in telomere length regulation (and/or somatic maintenance more broadly); a strategy that could mitigate the long‐term costs of reproductive effort, leaving their long‐term telomere dynamics comparable to those of subordinates. Consistent with the expectation that reproduction entails short‐term costs to somatic integrity, telomere attrition rates were most severe for all birds during the breeding seasons of wetter years (rainfall is the key driver of reproductive activity in this arid‐zone species). Our findings suggest that, even in vertebrate societies in which dominants monopolise reproduction, dominants may experience long‐term somatic integrity trajectories indistinguishable from those of their nonreproductive subordinates.
Vegetative phase change in Populus tremula × alba
Authors: Lawrence Erica H. , Leichty Aaron R. , Doody Erin E. , Ma Cathleen , Strauss Steven H. , Poethig R. Scott
Published: March 2021

Plants transition through juvenile and adult phases of vegetative development in a process known as vegetative phase change (VPC). In poplars (genus Populus) the differences between these stages are subtle, making it difficult to determine when this transition occurs. Previous studies of VPC in poplars have relied on plants propagated in vitro, leaving the natural progression of this process unknown.

We examined developmental morphology of seed‐grown and in vitro derived Populus tremula × alba (clone 717‐1B4), and compared the phenotype of these to transgenics with manipulated miR156 expression, the master regulator of VPC.

In seed‐grown plants, most traits changed from node‐to‐node during the first 3 months of development but remained constant after node 25. Many traits remained unchanged in clones over‐expressing miR156, or were enhanced when miR156 was lowered, demonstrating their natural progression is regulated by the miR156/SPL pathway. The characteristic leaf fluttering of Populus is one of these miR156‐regulated traits.

Vegetative development in plants grown from culture mirrored that of seed‐grown plants, allowing direct comparison between plants often used in research and those found in nature. These results provide a foundation for further research on the role of VPC in the ecology and evolution of this economically important genus.
LINC00460 facilitated tongue squamous cell carcinoma progression via the miR‐320b/IGF2BP3 axis
Authors: Wu Kankui , Wang Xiaowei , Yu Huiming , Yu Zhifen , Wang Dazhao , Xu Xiaohong
Published: March 2021

Objective

We aimed to explore the role of long intergenic non‐protein coding RNA 460 (LINC00460) in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC).

Methods

We enrolled 27 TSCC patients to explore LINC00460 expression in clinical TSCC samples. RT‐qPCR measured expression of molecules in this research. Loss‐of‐function assays explored biological function of LINC00460 in TSCC cells. RNA pull‐down assay, luciferase reporter assay, and RIP assay investigated mechanism of LINC00460 underlying TSCC cells.

Results

TSCC tissues and cell lines both showed high expression of LINC00460. Functionally, LINC00460 downregulation inhibited TSCC cell growth and promoted TSCC cell apoptosis. Additionally, LINC00460 silencing suppressed tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, LINC00460 bound with microRNA 320b (miR‐320b) in TSCC cells. MiR‐320b overexpression suppressed TSCC cell growth and promoted TSCC cell apoptosis. Moreover miR‐320b targeted insulin‐like growth factor 2 mRNA‐binding protein 3 (IGF2BP3) 3′untranslated region in TSCC cells. Furthermore, IGF2BP3 silencing suppressed TSCC cell growth and promoted TSCC cell apoptosis. IGF2BP3 upregulation countervailed effects of silenced LINC00460 on TSCC cells. The LINC00460/miR‐320b/IGF2BP3 axis was associated with lymph node metastasis of TSCC patients.

Conclusion

Our research illustrated that LINC00460 facilitated TSCC progression via the miR‐320b/IGF2BP3 axis, highlighting a potential insight for the treatment of TSCC.
Diagnostic and therapeutic caveats in Griscelli syndrome
Authors: Castaño‐Jaramillo Lina‐Maria , Lugo‐Reyes Saul O. , Cruz Muñoz Mario E. , Scheffler‐Mendoza Selma C. , Duran McKinster Carola , Yamazaki‐Nakashimada Marco A. , Espinosa‐Padilla Sara E. , Saez‐de‐Ocariz Gutierrez Maria del Mar
Published: March 2021

Griscelli syndrome (GS) is a rare autosomal recessive disease with characteristic pigment distribution, and there are currently 3 types according to the underlying genetic defect and clinical features. We present the case of a girl born from consanguineous parents who presented with predominant neurologic symptoms, silvery hair and granulomatous skin lesions. Cerebral magnetic resonance revealed diffuse white matter lesions, and central nervous system (CNS) lymphocytic infiltration was suspected. The patient underwent haematopoietic stem cell transplantation with graft failure and autologous reconstitution. She developed elevated liver enzyme with a cholestatic pattern. Multiple liver biopsies revealed centrilobular cholestasis and unspecific portal inflammation that improved with immunomodulatory treatment. She was revealed to have an impaired cytotoxicity in NK cells and a decreased expression of RAB27A. However, no variants were found in the gene. All types of GS present with pigment dilution and irregular pigment clumps that can be seen through light microscopy in hair and skin biopsy. Dermic granulomas and immunodeficiency with infectious and HLH predisposition have been described in GS type 2 (GS2). Neurologic alterations might be seen in GS type 1 (GS1) and GS type 2 (GS2), due to different mechanisms. GS1 presents with neurologic impairment secondary to myosin Va role in neuronal development and synapsis. Meanwhile, GS2 can present with neurologic impairment secondary to SNC HLH. Clinical features and cytotoxicity might aid in differentiating GS1 and GS2, especially since treatment differs.
Deep crustal structure in the Taiwan–Ryukyu arc–trench system junction area: New constraints from gravity modelling
Authors: Doo Wen‐Bin , Wu Wen‐Nan , Huang Yin‐Sheng , Lo Chung‐Liang , Wang Hsueh‐Fen , Wang Shiou‐Ya , Kuo‐Chen Hao
Published: March 2021

The Taiwan–Ryukyu arc–trench junction area is a seismic active region and has high potential to generate large earthquakes. However, the detailed deep structures are not fully revealed because of data resolution problems. The Taiwan Integrated Geodynamic Research (TAIGER) project collected two wide‐angle and multichannel seismic profiles across the Taiwan mountain belt (T5) and the western end of the Ryukyu arc–trench system (T6). In this study, we perform 2‐D gravity modelling for T5 and T6 by taking advantage of well‐constrained P‐wave velocity models, which helps to reduce the nonunique problem. To better fit the observed gravity anomaly, a block with relatively high‐density must exist beneath eastern Taiwan. This high‐density material could be serpentinised mantle, which may be resulted from the dehydration of the subducting Eurasian plate. Also, our result indicates that the subducting Gagua Ridge has a deep crustal root and extends northward to the Ryukyu forearc area.
Validity and Interinstrument Reliability of a Medical Grade Physical Activity Monitor in Older Adults
Authors: O’Brien Myles W. , Wojcik William R. , Fowles Jonathon R.
Published: March 2021

Wearable physical activity monitors are associated with an increase in user’s habitual physical activity levels. Most of the older adult population do not meet the national moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) recommendations and may benefit from being prescribed a physical activity monitor. The PiezoRx is a class one medical grade device that uses step rate thresholds to measure MVPA. The validity and reliability of the PiezoRx in measuring MVPA has yet to be determined in older persons. We assessed the validity and interinstrument reliability of the PiezoRx to measure steps and MVPA in older adults. Participants (n = 19; 68.8 ± 2.3 years) wore an Omron HJ-320 pedometer, ActiGraph GT3X accelerometer, and four PiezoRx monitors during a five-stage treadmill walking protocol. The PiezoRx devices were set at moderate physical activity and vigorous physical activity step rate thresholds (steps per minute) of 100/120, 110/130, adjusted for height and adjusted for height + fitness. The PiezoRx exhibited a stronger correlation (intraclass correlation coefficient = .82) with manually counted steps than the ActiGraph (intraclass correlation coefficient = .53) and Omron (intraclass correlation coefficient = .54) and had a low absolute percentage error (3 ± 6%). The PiezoRx with moderate physical activity/vigorous physical activity step thresholds adjusted to 110/130 was strongly correlated to indirect calorimetry (0.84, p < .001) and best distinguished each walking stage as MVPA or not (sensitivity: 88%; specificity: 95%). The PiezoRx monitor is a valid and reliable measure of step count and MVPA among older adults. The device’s ability to measure MVPA in absolute terms was improved when step rate thresholds for moderate physical activity/vigorous physical activity were increased to 110/130 steps per minute in this population.
The Effects of Gluteal Strength and Activation on the Relationship Between Femoral Alignment and Functional Valgus Collapse During a Single-Leg Landing
Authors: Hogg Jennifer A. , Ackerman Terry , Nguyen Anh-Dung , Ross Scott E. , Schmitz Randy J. , Vanrenterghem Jos , Shultz Sandra J.
Published: March 2021

Context: A bias toward femoral internal rotation is a potential precursor to functional valgus collapse. The gluteal muscles may play a critical role in mitigating these effects. Objective: Determine the extent to which gluteal strength and activation mediate associations between femoral alignment measures and functional valgus collapse. Design: Cross-sectional. Setting: Research laboratory. Patients or Other Participants: Forty-five females (age = 20.1 [1.7] y; height = 165.2 [7.6] cm; weight = 68.6 [13.1] kg) and 45 males (age = 20.8 [2.0] y; height = 177.5 [8.7] cm; weight = 82.7 [16.5] kg), healthy for 6 months prior. Intervention(s): Femoral alignment was measured prone. Hip-extension and abduction strength were obtained using a handheld dynamometer. Three-dimensional biomechanics and surface electromyography were obtained during single-leg forward landings. Main Outcome Measures: Forward stepwise multiple linear regressions determined the influence of femoral alignment on functional valgus collapse and the mediating effects of gluteus maximus and medius strength and activation. Results: In females, less hip abduction strength predicted greater peak hip adduction angle (R2 change = .10; P = .02), and greater hip-extensor activation predicted greater peak knee internal rotation angle (R2 change = .14; P = .01). In males, lesser hip abduction strength predicted smaller peak knee abduction moment (R2 change = .11; P = .03), and the combination of lesser hip abduction peak torque and lesser gluteus medius activation predicted greater hip internal rotation angle (R2 change = .15; P = .04). No meaningful mediation effects were observed (υadj < .01). Conclusions: In females, after accounting for femoral alignment, less gluteal strength and higher muscle activation were marginally associated with valgus movement. In males, less gluteal strength was associated with a more varus posture. Gluteal strength did not mediate femoral alignment. Future research should determine the capability of females to use their strength efficiently.
Morphological Characteristics of Passive and Active Structures of the Foot Across Populations With Different Levels of Physical Activity
Authors: Reina-Martin Inmaculada , Navarro-Ledesma Santiago , Ortega-Avila Ana Belen , Deschamps Kevin , Martinez-Franco Alfonso , Luque-Suarez Alejandro , Gijon-Nogueron Gabriel
Published: March 2021

Background: Imaging diagnosis plays a fundamental role in the evaluation and management of injuries suffered in sports activities. Objective: To analyze the differences in the thickness of the Achilles tendon, patellar tendon, plantar fascia, and posterior tibial tendon in the following levels of physical activity: persons who run regularly, persons otherwise physically active, and persons with a sedentary lifestyle. Design: Cross-sectional and observational. Participants: The 91 volunteers recruited from students at the university and the Triathlon Club from December 2016 to June 2019. The data were obtained (age, body mass index, and visual analog scale for quality of life together with the ultrasound measurements). Results: Tendon and ligament thickness was greater in the runners group than in the sedentary and active groups with the exception of the posterior tibial tendon. The thickness of the Achilles tendon was greater in the runners than in the other groups for both limbs (P = .007 and P = .005). This was also the case for the cross-sectional area (P < .01) and the plantar fascia at the heel insertion in both limbs (P = .034 and P = .026) and for patellar tendon thickness for the longitudinal measurement (P < .01). At the transversal level, however, the differences were only significant in the right limb (P = .040). Conclusion: The thickness of the Achilles tendon, plantar fascia, and patellar tendon is greater in runners than in persons who are otherwise active or who are sedentary.
Interaction of Nuclear Export Protein with G Protein Pathway Suppressor 2 (GPS2) Facilitates Influenza A Virus Replication by Weakening the Inhibition of GPS2 to RNA Synthesis and Ribonucleoprotein Assembly
Authors: Gong Wenxiao , He Xinglin , Huang Kun , Zhang Yufei , Li Chengfei , Yang Ying , Zou Zhong , Jin Meilin
Published: March 2021

NEP is proposed to play multiple biologically important roles in the life cycle of IAV, which largely relies on host factors by interaction. Our study demonstrated that GPS2 could reduce the interaction between polymerase basic 1 (PB1) and PB2 and interfere with viral ribonucleoprotein (vRNP) assembly.
Mid-Miocene volcanic migration in the westernmost Sunda arc induced by India-Eurasia collision
Authors: Lai Yu-Ming , Chung Sun-Lin , Ghani Azman A. , Murtadha Sayed , Lee Hao-Yang , Chu Mei-Fei
Published: March 2021

The migration of arc magmatism that is a fundamental aspect of plate tectonics may reflect the complex interaction between subduction zone processes and regional tectonics. Here we report new observations on volcanic migration from northwestern Sumatra, in the westernmost Sunda arc, characterized by an oblique convergent boundary between the Indo-Australian and Eurasian plates. Our study indicates that in northwestern Sumatra, volcanism ceased at 15–10 Ma on the southern coast and reignited to form a suite of active volcanoes that erupt exclusively to the north of the trench-parallel Sumatran fault. Younger volcanic rocks from the north are markedly more enriched in K2O and other highly incompatible elements, delineating a geochemical variation over space and time similar to that in Java and reflecting an increase in the Benioff zone depth. We relate this mid-Miocene volcanic migration in northwestern Sumatra to the far-field effect of propagating extrusion tectonics driven by the India-Eurasia collision. The extrusion caused regional deformation southward through Myanmar to northwestern Sumatra and thus transformed the oblique subduction into a dextral motion–governed plate boundary. This tectonic transformation, associated with opening of the Andaman Sea, is suggested to be responsible for the volcanic migration in northwestern Sumatra.
Combining perennial grass–legume forages and liquid dairy manure contributes to nitrogen accumulation in a clayey soil
Authors: D’Amours Emmanuelle , Chantigny Martin H. , Vanasse Anne , Maillard Émilie , Lafond Jean , Angers Denis A.
Published: March 2021

Repeated applications of liquid dairy manure (LDM) and perennial crops generally favor nitrogen (N) stocks in soils, but in ways that may differ with soil type and other management practices. The objective of this study was to assess the long-term (21 yr) changes in soil N stocks (0–50 cm) of a silty clay soil, in a cool humid climate, in response to mineral fertilization (MIN) or LDM, combined with two tillage practices [chisel plow (CP), or moldboard plow (MP)], and two crop rotations [cereal monoculture (monoculture) or cereal–perennial forage rotation (forage-based rotation)]. The forage-based rotation favoured a greater accumulation of N in the first 20 cm of soil (+50 kg N·ha−1·yr−1) when compared with the monoculture. Tillage practices did not impact N stocks in the whole soil profile, but influenced its vertical distribution, with greater accumulation at the surface with CP, and at depth with MP. Annual input of LDM increased N stocks at the surface (0–20 cm) compared with MIN, especially when combined with the forage-based rotation. After 21 yr, soil N stocks (0–50 cm) with LDM were 32% (+2 t N·ha−1) higher in the forage-based rotation than in the monoculture, suggesting better retention and more efficient use of manure-N with perennial forages than cereals. Comparisons between the N mass balance computed for each cropping system, and the changes in soil N stocks indicated that accumulation of N under the forage-based rotation was largely due to symbiotic fixation by legumes in the forage mixture.
Nobusawa Gamma Nearness Semirings
Authors: Öztürk Mehmet Ali , Yazarli Hasret
Published: March 2021

In this study, we investigate the problem of how to define [Formula: see text]-nearness semiring in the sense of Nobusawa theory which extends the notion of a nearness rings, nearness semirings and [Formula: see text]-rings [N. Nobusawa, On a generalization of the ring theory, Osaka Journal of Mathematics 1 (1964) 81–89; M. A. Öztürk, Semirings on weak nearness approximation spaces, Annals of Fuzzy Mathematics and Informatics15(3) (2018) 227–241; M. A. Öztürk and E. İnan, Nearness rings, Annals of Fuzzy Mathematics and Informatics 17(2) (2019) 115–132]. Also, we introduce some properties of approximations and their algebraic structures.