bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of protection of platelet‐rich plasma against experimental ischemia/reperfusion injury in the rat ovary on in vitro fertilization outcomes
Authors: Bostancı Mehmet Sühha , Budak Özcan , Çakiroğlu Hüseyin , Gök Koray , Köse Osman , Çokluk Erdem
Published: March 2022

Objective

Ovarian torsion is a common cause of local ischemic damage, reduced follicular activity and infertility. This study aimed to investigate how well platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) protects against experimental ischemic (I) and ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury in rat ovaries and its effect on in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes.

Method

Fifty‐six adult female Sprague–Dawley albino rats were randomly assigned to six groups of eight animals each: Sham, Ischemia, I/R, Sham + PRP, I + PRP, and I/R + PRP. The remaining eight animals were used to prepare the PRP. The ischemia groups were subjected to bilateral adnexal torsion for 3 h, while the I/R and I/R + PRP groups received subsequent detorsion for 3 h. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) PRP was administered 30 min prior to ischemia (I + PRP) or reperfusion (I/R + PRP). The ovaries were stimulated through an intraperitoneal injection of 150–300 internal units of IU/kg PMSG. After ovulation induction, oocytes were taken from the ovaries, and IVF was performed.

Results

The number of MII oocytes reached the highest number with 4.63 ± 0.74 in the S group and had the lowest number with 0.50 ± 0.53 in the I/R group. There were statistically significant differences for the number of embryos obtained on the second day between the I and I + PRP groups and the I/R and I/R + PRP groups (p = 0.000). In comparing anti‐Müllerian hormone 1 (AMH1) and AMH2 values within the group, the highest decrease was observed in the I and I/R groups.

Conclusion

PRP is effective in minimizing ovarian damage and preserving ovarian reserves following ovarian torsion.
Nutritional Assessment of Denture Wearers Using Matched Electronic Dental‐Health Record Data
Authors: Felix Gomez Grace Gomez , Cho Sopanis D. , Varghese Roshan , Rajendran Divya , Eckert George J. , Bhamidipalli Sruthi Surya , Gonzalez Theresa , Khan Babar Ali , Thyvalikakath Thankam Paul
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To assess the nutritional profile of denture wearers through a retrospective cohort study using nutritional biomarkers from matched electronic dental and health record (EDR‐EHR) data.

Materials and methods

The case group (denture wearers) included matched EDR‐EHR data of patients who received removable partial, complete, and implant‐supported prosthodontic treatments between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2018, study time. The control (nondenture wearers) group did not have recorded denture treatments and included patient records within 1 year of the denture index date (first date of case patients’ receiving complete or partial denture) of the matching cases. The qualified patients’ EDR were matched with their EHR based on the availability of laboratory reports within 2 years of receiving the dentures (index date). Nutritional biomarkers were selected from laboratory reports for complete blood count, comprehensive and basic metabolic profile, lipid, and thyroid panels. Summary statistics were performed, and general linear mixed effect models were used to evaluate the rate of change over time (slope) of nutritional biomarkers before and after the index date. Likelihood ratio tests were performed to determine the differences between dentures and controls.

Results

The final cohort included 10,481 matched EDR‐EHR data with 3,519 denture wearers and 6,962 controls that contained laboratory results within the study time. The denture wearers’ mean age was 57 ±10 years and the control group was 56 ±10 years with 55% females in both groups. Pre‐post analysis among denture wearers revealed decreased serum albumin (p = 0.002), calcium (p = 0.039), creatinine (p < 0.001) during the post‐index time. Hemoglobin (Hb) was higher pre‐index, and was decreasing during the time period but did not change post‐index (p < 0.001). Among denture wearers, completely edentulous patients had a significant decrease in serum albumin, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), but increased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). In partially edentulous patients, total cholesterol decreased (p = 0.018) and TSH (p = 0.004), BUN (p < 0.001) increased post‐index. Patients edentulous in either upper or lower arch had decreased BUN and eGFR during post‐index. Compared to controls, denture wearers showed decreased serum albumin and protein (p = 0.008), serum calcium (p = 0.001), and controls showed increased Hb (p = 0.035) during post‐index.

Conclusions

The study results indicate nutritional biomarker variations among denture wearers suggesting a risk for undernutrition and the potential of using selected nutritional biomarkers to monitor nutritional profile.
Violence and aggression prevention and management strategies in renal units: a survey after 10 years
Authors: de Barbieri Ilaria , Buja Alessandra , Noble Helen , Strini Veronica
Published: March 2022

Background

Nursing is considered the healthcare profession at most risk of violence. Violence in the workplace is a complex construct difficult to manage and against health workers has implications for the entire health system. A limited number of studies have evaluated this phenomenon in renal units, and there has been little related work since Zampieron's study of 2010.

Objectives

To describe prevention and management strategies 10 years after the last survey of Zampieron and to identify what has changed in the management of violence.

Design

An observational, cross‐sectional study.

Participants

A convenience sample including all nurses participating in the European Dialysis and Transplant Nurses Association/European Renal Care Association Conference of 2019, who understand the English language and have a smartphone or tablet.

Measurements

A questionnaire developed by Zampieron was used. The first part collected data concerning the characteristics of the participants' workplace; the second part included closed questions focused on the strategies of management and prevention of violence.

Results

Violence is still a frequent event in renal units, despite measures adopted as education, training, formal incident reporting procedures and indoor safety measures. Much more has been invested in recent years in the prevention of violence in the workplace through specific courses, which have led to greater complaints and reporting of episodes.

Conclusions

This study shows how actions regarding prevention and management of violence towards nurses have been implemented in renal units over the last 10 years and it suggests the greatest investment in recent years has been made in terms of staff training and education.
Pestalotiopsis microspora causes leaf spot on Adenium obesum
Authors: de Jesus Jéssica Maria Israel , Rodrigues Ana Beatriz Lemes , de Paula Kássia Lorrany Marques , da Cunha Marcos Gomes
Published: March 2022

Among the main ornamental plants grown in Brazil, Adenium obesum stands out for its appearance, drought resistance and beautiful flowers. However, diseases can be a limiting factor because they affect crop quality and yield. The aim of this study was to report the first occurrence of Pestalotiopsis microspora as the causal agent of leaf spots on desert rose. A. obesum leaves with necrotic spots on the edges and/or tips were collected for indirect isolation of the pathogen. Three morphologically similar fungal isolates were obtained. In pathogenicity testing, healthy leaves were inoculated with mycelial disks and controls with disks containing potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium. Symptom development was assessed on a daily basis, followed by reisolation. The DNA of pure cultures was extracted and submitted to PCR using the primers ITS1 and ITS4. The PCR product was sequenced. The inoculated leaves initially developed symptoms of chlorosis that progressed to necrosis. The fungal colonies exhibited white mycelia with radial, cottony growth and the formation of dark masses of conidia and hyaline, branched septate hyphae. The euseptate conidia had two hyaline cells (apical and basal) and three dark‐coloured fusiform median cells. The morphological characteristics of the isolates were similar to those described for the genus Pestalotiopsis. When compared to sequences deposited in GenBank, the sequences of the ITS gene showed 100% identity with the Pestalotiopsis microspora species. These results extend the range of known hosts of this pathogen, since this is the first report of P. microspora attack in Adenium obesum.
Phytophthora tropicalis: Causal agent of persimmon fruit rot in Brazil
Authors: Brumat Ana Carolina Lyra , May De Mio Louise Larissa , Tessmann Dauri José , Duarte Henrique da Silva Silveira , Auer Celso Garcia , Dos Santos Álvaro Figueredo
Published: March 2022

Persimmon fruit (Diospyros kaki L.) from commercial orchards located in southern Brazil, in Curitiba, Paraná, showed dark firm rot. The incidence in the field was about 2% in an evaluation in the 2016 growing season, and from these infected fruit, three Phytophthora sp. isolates were obtained. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the causal agent of the disease through morphophysiological and molecular analysis of the isolates. Initially, the pathogenicity test was performed on persimmon fruit to fulfil Koch's postulates. Mycelial growth at eight temperatures ranging from 8°C to 35°C was evaluated for taxonomic purposes. Next, the morphological characteristics of sporangia, chlamydospores and oospores were evaluated. For molecular characterization, sequencing of the ITS‐rDNA region and portions of the COXI and TEF1α genes and phylogenetic analysis were performed. All isolates were pathogenic, causing symptoms of firm and dark rot similar to those observed in the orchards. Mycelial growth was not observed at 35°C. There was an abundant production of ellipsoid, papillate, deciduous sporangia with long pedicels and the formation of globose chlamydospores. The isolates were heterothallic, all belonging to group A1, in which the production of plerotic oospores with amphigenous antheridia was verified. The morphophysiological and molecular characterization allowed the identification of the isolates as Phytophthora tropicalis. To our knowledge, this is the first report of persimmon fruit rot caused by P. tropicalis.
Effect of dietary n‐3 fatty acid and rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) supplementation on semen quality, sperm fatty acids and reproductive performance of aged male broiler breeders
Authors: Golzar Adabi Shahram , Karimi Torshizi Mohammad Amir , Raei Hamid , Marnewick Jeanine L.
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of dietary fish oil (FO) and rooibos supplementation on semen quality, fatty acids composition and reproductive performance of aged male broiler breeders. Seventy‐two 47‐week‐old Ross broiler breeder roosters were randomly assigned to a 2 × 3 factorial arrangements to include two FO concentrations (0% and 2%) and 3 rooibos concentrations (0%, 1.5% and 3%) for 13 weeks consecutive. The different diets affected semen parameters significantly (p < 0.05), except for the semen concentration and abnormality of the sperm. The sperm of the FO and 3% rooibos‐treated group showed better motility and viability when compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). The susceptibility of semen to lipid peroxidation was increased in roosters fed the rooibos‐free diets (p < 0.05), but it was reduced (p < 0.05) when the diet was supplemented with 1.5% and 3% rooibos. In addition, at 64 weeks, the highest concentration of testosterone was observed in the roosters fed a diet that included 2% FO and 3% rooibos (p < 0.05); however, the difference in testosterone levels between Week 52 and Week 64 was not significant (p > 0.05). The fertility rate of collected eggs from the FO and 3% rooibos group was higher (p < 0.05) than that of the other groups at the end of the experiment. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of FO along with rooibos improved seminal quality and reproduction performance in aged roosters.
Perioperative lung ultrasonography in healthy horses undergoing general anesthesia for elective surgery
Authors: Ribonnet Caroline , Palmers Katrien , Saegerman Claude , Vanderperren Katrien , van Galen Gaby
Published: March 2022

Background

Lung ultrasound (LUS) is poorly evaluated in horses, especially perioperatively.

Objectives

(1) Describe LUS findings in healthy horses before and after general anesthesia (GA), (2) evaluate if GA induces ultrasonographic changes in healthy horses, (3) suggest a LUS scoring system, (4) identify horse variables that are associated to LUS changes after anesthesia.

Animals

Twenty‐five healthy adult horses undergoing elective surgery.

Methods

Prospective hypothesis‐driven observational study. LUS findings were recorded before anesthesia, 5 minutes in recovery, 15 minutes, 2H, 3H, 4H, 6H, and 24H after anesthesia in 8 lung regions. Clinical data were collected perioperatively.

Results

There was a significant increase in amount of I‐lines (10.8 ± 8.7 vs 15.28 ± 8.19), B‐lines (3.2 ± 3.5 vs 8.72 ± 4.86), and coalescent B‐lines (0.04 ± 0.2 vs 1.12 ± 1.45) after anesthesia compared to before anesthesia, and a significantly higher LUS score 2H after anesthesia (4.92 ± 8.40) compared to before anesthesia (0.9 ± 1.8; P = .02). The maximal LUS score after anesthesia was correlated to total procedure time (Pearson r = 0.4, P = .05; Spearman r = 0.44, P = .03) and was significantly higher in horses with abnormal cardiorespiratory values during anesthesia (P = .005).

Conclusions

LUS changes can be induced by GA in healthy horses. This study did not investigate if and which LUS findings indicate lesions, however, this information can aid clinicians to identify pulmonary complications after anesthesia.
Multiscale correlated analysis of the Aguas Zarcas CM chondrite
Authors: Dionnet Zélia , Aléon‐Toppani Alice , Brunetto Rosario , Rubino Stefano , Suttle Martin D. , Lantz Cateline , Avdellidou Chrysa , Baklouti Donia , Borondics Ferenc , Djouadi Zahia , Grieco Francesco , Héripré Eva , Nakamura Tomoki , Rotundi Alessandra , Scheel Mario
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we report the results of a campaign of measurements on four fragments of the CM Aguas Zarcas (AZ) meteorite, combining X‐ray computed tomography analysis and Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy. We estimated a petrologic type for our sampled CM lithology using the two independent techniques, and obtained a type CM2.5, in agreement with previous estimations. By comparing the Si‐O 10‐µm signature of the AZ average FT‐IR spectra with other well‐studied CMs, we place AZ in the context of aqueous alteration of CM parent bodies. Morphological characterization reveals that AZ has heterogeneous distribution of pores and a global porosity of 4.5 ± 0.5 vol%. We show that chondrules have a porosity of 6.3 ± 1 vol%. This larger porosity could be inherited due to various processes such as temperature variation during the chondrule formation and shocks or dissolution during aqueous alteration. Finally, we observed a correlation between 3D distributions of organic matter and mineral at micrometric scales, revealing a link between the abundance of organic matter and the presence of hydrated minerals. This supports the idea that aqueous alteration in AZ’s parent body played a major role in the evolution of the organic matter.
Genomic evidence of an ancient inland temperate rainforest in the Pacific Northwest of North America
Authors: Ruffley Megan , Smith Megan L. , Espíndola Anahí , Turck Daniel F. , Mitchell Niels , Carstens Bryan , Sullivan Jack , Tank David C.
Published: March 2022

The disjunct temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest of North America (PNW) are characterized by late‐successional dominant tree species Thuja plicata (western redcedar) and Tsuga heterophylla (western hemlock). The demographic histories of these species, along with the PNW rainforest ecosystem in its entirety, have been heavily impacted by geological and climatic changes the PNW has experienced over the last 5 million years, including mountain orogeny and repeated Pleistocene glaciations. These environmental events have ultimately shaped the history of these species, with inland populations potentially being extirpated during the Pleistocene glaciations. Here, we collect genomic data for both species across their ranges to test multiple demographic models, each reflecting a different phylogeographical hypothesis on how the ecosystem‐dominating species may have responded to dramatic climatic change. Our results indicate that inland and coastal populations in both species diverged ~2.5 million years ago in the early Pleistocene and experienced decreases in population size during glacial cycles, with subsequent population expansion. Importantly, we found evidence for gene flow between coastal and inland populations during the mid‐Holocene. It is likely that intermittent migration in these species during this time has prevented allopatric speciation via genetic drift alone. In conclusion, our results from combining genomic data and demographic inference procedures establish that populations of the ecosystem dominants Thuja plicata and Tsuga heterophylla persisted in refugia located in both the coastal and inland regions of the PNW throughout the Pleistocene, with populations expanding and contracting in response to glacial cycles with occasional gene flow.
Sulettaria, a new ginger genus in the flora of the Philippines
Authors: Mazo Kean Roe F. , Docot Rudolph Valentino A. , Poulsen Axel Dalberg
Published: March 2022

Collections made in Zamboanga Peninsula in 2021 were identified as Sulettaria longituba, a species occurring in nearby Borneo, as well as Peninsular Malaysia and Sumatra. Sulettaria is therefore reported here as a new generic record for the Philippines, increasing the number of ginger genera in its flora to 18. Previously, the genus was known to occur in Sundaland crossing Wallace's line to Sulawesi and is found as far east as the island of Seram. The most closely related genus is Geocharis, which differs from Sulettaria by having staminodes, a bilobed labellum and ridged fruits. A detailed description of Sulettaria longituba based on the recent collections in Zamboanga is provided here. In addition, information is provided on etymology, ecology, distribution, local name and use, as well as a colour plate and detailed line drawings of the reproductive parts.
GENOMES UNCOUPLED1 plays a key role during the de‐etiolation process in Arabidopsis
Authors: Hernández‐Verdeja Tamara , Vuorijoki Linda , Jin Xu , Vergara Alexander , Dubreuil Carole , Strand Åsa
Published: March 2022

One of the most dramatic challenges in the life of a plant occurs when the seedling emerges from the soil and exposure to light triggers expression of genes required for establishment of photosynthesis.

This process needs to be tightly regulated, as premature accumulation of light‐harvesting proteins and photoreactive Chl precursors causes oxidative damage when the seedling is first exposed to light. Photosynthesis genes are encoded by both nuclear and plastid genomes, and to establish the required level of control, plastid‐to‐nucleus (retrograde) signalling is necessary to ensure correct gene expression.

We herein show that a negative GENOMES UNCOUPLED1 (GUN1)‐mediated retrograde signal restricts chloroplast development in darkness and during early light response by regulating the transcription of several critical transcription factors linked to light response, photomorphogenesis, and chloroplast development, and consequently their downstream target genes in Arabidopsis.

Thus, the plastids play an essential role during skotomorphogenesis and the early light response, and GUN1 acts as a safeguard during the critical step of seedling emergence from darkness.
Understanding and formation—A process of becoming a nurse
Authors: Sandvik Ann‐Helén , Hilli Yvonne
Published: March 2022

Nursing is a complicated and multifaceted profession that sets high demands in preparing nursing students for the profession. In today's education, the emphasis is often on knowledge and skills, that is, epistemology. In caring science another approach is sought, an approach based on human sciences in which knowledge will serve a more profound understanding, that is, the ontology. Consequently, the question of what this ‘understanding’ in clinical education is and how it is promoted in clinical nursing education becomes important to clarify. Therefore, the aim here is to explicate the phenomenon of understanding in clinical education as experienced by third‐year undergraduate nursing students ready for graduation. This study, with a hermeneutic approach, is based on a secondary analysis of focus group interviews with undergraduate nursing students. The analytical expansion of the original material suggests three interrelated themes that illuminate the phenomenon of understanding in clinical education. These findings are deepened and enriched through philosophical abstraction. In the process of understanding, episteme, techne and phronesis can be viewed as inherent parts of the structure of thought in nursing. The perspective advanced in this study adds new aspects to the phenomenon of understanding and its meaning and significance in the dynamic process of formation and becoming in clinical education. The focus in clinical nursing education should be on learning reflective, critical thinking and the ways of being a nurse, rather than drilling students on particular skills. In the rapidly changing world of the 21st century, an understanding‐based education is needed as a more meaningful and authentic approach. Therefore, an ontological turn in nursing education, through which the main focus shifts from a traditional epistemology to an epistemology in the service of ontology, is suggested. Further studies are needed in the development and implementation of an understanding‐based, interpretative education in nursing.
Reflections of the collaborative care planning as a person‐centred practice
Authors: Jobe Ingela
Published: March 2022

The ageing population is increasing worldwide with an increase in chronic disorders. At the same time, person‐centred care has become a policy within both health and social care. To facilitate coordination and collaboration and integrate the older adult's perspective in the decision‐making process the collaborative care planning process with the development of a written care plan can be used. In this study, the result of an interpreted analysis of four empirical studies of the collaborative care planning as a person‐centred practice will be discussed and reflected on. A framework based on the French philosopher Paul Ricoeur's little ethics was used in the synthesis of the studies. The findings revealed two common threads: personhood and power asymmetry. Both challenges in achieving a person‐centred collaborative care planning. Ricoeur's dialogical thinking and description of a person served as an underpinning in discussing and reflecting upon the findings of the interpreted synthesis. Collaborative care planning is a complex process. However, Ricoeur's philosophy contributed to a greater understanding of the collaborative care planning as a person‐centred practice and accentuated that ethics, human values, and the older adults and care partners perspectives need to be given the same importance and considerations as the medical and social sciences perspectives for the collaborative care planning process to truly become person‐centred.
miR‐342‐5p inhibits odonto/osteogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells via targeting Wnt7b
Authors: Zeng Kangrui , Li Weiping , Kang Qiongyi , Li Yutong , Cheng Qing , Xia Wenwei
Published: March 2022

Objective

Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) constitute a promising source of stem cells in tissue engineering. However, the molecular mechanism of differentiation in hDPSCs remains largely unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in lineage‐specific differentiation of stem cells. The present study investigated the function of miRNA‐342‐5p in the odonto/osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs.

Methods

The miRNA array profiling and quantitative real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) revealed the expression of miR‐342‐5p during odonto/osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs. hDPSCs were treated with miR‐342‐5p mimic and inhibitor to investigate the regulatory roles of miR‐342‐5p in the differentiation of hDPSCs. Moreover, miR‐342‐5p inhibitor and small interference RNA (siRNA) targeting Wnt7b were applied to explore the regulatory mechanism of miR‐342‐5p.

Results

Downregulated miR‐342‐5p was observed during odonto/osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs. The overexpression of miR‐342‐5p inhibited the odonto/osteogenic potential of DPSCs, as indicated by low levels of alkaline phosphatase activity, calcium deposition formation, and odonto/osteogenic differentiation markers, whereas silencing of miR‐342‐5p exhibited the opposite effect. When co‐treated with siRNA targeting Wnt7b and miR‐342‐5p inhibitor in hDPSCs, the odonto/osteogenic potential and activation of Wnt7b/β‐catenin pathway were attenuated.

Conclusions

This study showed that miR‐342‐5p inhibits the odonto/osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs by interfering with Wnt/β‐catenin signaling via targeting Wnt7b.
A multi‐season analysis of barnyard millet (Echinochloa frumentacea) germplasm lines for shoot fly resistance and multi‐trait stability
Authors: Padmaja Poluru Gunnampati , Kalaisekar Andiappan , Tonapi Vilas Achutarao , Madhusudhana Ragimasalawada
Published: March 2022

Barnyard millet is one of the most important minor millet crops grown in rainfed conditions for its health benefits. A large germplasm collection is available at the global level and needs to be characterized for biotic stress factors. In this study, 106 barnyard millet lines were characterized for their resistance to shoot fly resistance during the 2016, 2017 and 2018 rainy seasons, and Additive Main effect and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) analysis was carried out to understand the genotype x environment interaction. The study also investigated the multi‐trait stability of genotypes using deadhearts on the main plant (MPDH) and tillers (TDH). The analysis revealed the genetic difference that exists in the barnyard genetic material for shoot fly resistance. Seedling epicuticular wax was found related to shoot fly infestation. The infected plants had substantially higher levels of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase and total protein content when contrasted with their control plants. MPDH and TDH have high G × E interaction, and the multi‐trait stability index (MTSI) analysis has identified 16 lines with lower shoot fly damage and stability.
Reconstructed human pigmented skin/epidermis models achieve epidermal pigmentation through melanocore transfer
Authors: Hall Michael J. , Lopes‐Ventura Sara , Neto Matilde V. , Charneca João , Zoio Patricia , Seabra Miguel C. , Oliva Abel , Barral Duarte C.
Published: March 2022

The skin acts as a barrier to environmental insults and provides many vital functions. One of these is to shield DNA from harmful ultraviolet radiation, which is achieved by skin pigmentation arising as melanin is produced and dispersed within the epidermal layer. This is a crucial defence against DNA damage, photo‐ageing and skin cancer. The mechanisms and regulation of melanogenesis and melanin transfer involve extensive crosstalk between melanocytes and keratinocytes in the epidermis, as well as fibroblasts in the dermal layer. Although the predominant mechanism of melanin transfer continues to be debated and several plausible models have been proposed, we and others previously provided evidence for a coupled exo/phagocytosis model. Herein, we performed histology and immunohistochemistry analyses and demonstrated that a newly developed full‐thickness three‐dimensional reconstructed human pigmented skin model and an epidermis‐only model exhibit dispersed pigment throughout keratinocytes in the epidermis. Transmission electron microscopy revealed melanocores between melanocytes and keratinocytes, suggesting that melanin is transferred through coupled exocytosis/phagocytosis of the melanosome core, or melanocore, similar to our previous observations in human skin biopsies. We, therefore, present evidence that our in vitro models of pigmented human skin show epidermal pigmentation comparable to human skin. These findings have a high value for studies of skin pigmentation mechanisms and pigmentary disorders, whilst reducing the reliance on animal models and human skin biopsies.
A Case of severe mosquito bite allergy complicated by fatal hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Dupuy Elizabeth , Afifi Ladan , Jonas Steven J. , Cheng Carol E. , Hogeling Marcia
Published: March 2022

Severe mosquito bite allergy (SMBA) is characterized by necrotic skin lesions and systemic symptoms. Chronic active Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection, when superimposed with SMBA, is a key driver for catastrophic clinical consequences, such as uncontrolled lymphoproliferation. This interplay is of clinical significance due to its association with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and/or EBV‐driven malignancies. Here, we report a case of SMBA that developed in a 14‐year‐old Hispanic boy that led to fatal secondary HLH.
The influence of dispositional cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression on post‐retrieval and standard extinction
Authors: Kitamura Haruka , Strodl Esben , Johnston Patrick , Johnson Luke R.
Published: March 2022

Individual differences in the ability to habitually regulate emotion may impact the efficacy of fear memory extinction. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between dispositional cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression with post‐retrieval and standard extinction. Fear memory and extinction were measured with the recovery of skin conductance responses. We also examined the relationship between a temporal feature of electrodermal responding (half‐recovery time) and each of the emotion regulation strategies. University students (N = 80) underwent a three‐day fear conditioning procedure using a within‐subject design consisting of acquisition on day one, post‐retrieval extinction and standard extinction on day two, and recovery test on day three. Individual difference data on self‐reported levels of cognitive reappraisal, expressive suppression, trait anxiety, and depression were collected. We did not detect a relationship between the two emotion regulation strategies measured in this study and acquisition or extinction. We found, however, that increased dispositional use of cognitive reappraisal was associated with lower spontaneous recovery to both the post‐retrieval extinction and standard extinction stimulus after controlling for age, trait anxiety, and depression. There were no associations between expressive suppression and conditioned responses. We also observed patterns of faster dissipation of arousal for reappraisal and slower for suppression to the conditioned stimulus during extinction training, which may represent the unique influence of each emotion strategy on the regulation of fear. We conclude greater daily use of cognitive reappraisal, but not expressive suppression, associates with extinction retention after receiving both standard and post‐retrieval extinction.
Legacy of thinning on woody species composition and structure in southern Appalachian Mountain hardwood forests: restoration implications
Authors: Keyser Tara L. , Rodrigue Jason A.
Published: March 2022

In the Appalachian Mountains, Liriodendron tulipifera monocultures are widespread, with these forests lacking both species and structural diversity. In this study, we developed models that described the effects of thinning treatments, conducted almost 60 years ago, on the density, composition, and functional identity of the woody understory in L. tulipifera forests. The woody understory of these thinned L. tulipifera forests was diverse, with the small seedling (<1.4 m), large seedling (≥1.4 m and <2.54 cm dbh), and sapling (≥2.54 and <12.7 cm) layers possessing 38, 32, and 23 species, respectively. Although model performance was low to moderate (r2 = 0.05–0.40), we found that legacy effects, alone or in combination with environmental variables, explained, in part, the variability associated with the density, composition, and functional identity of the small seedling, large seedling, and sapling size classes, with the relative influence of legacy versus environmental effects varying by metric and size class. Post‐thinning basal area and/or percent of basal area removed were not the primary legacy effects influencing the woody understory. Instead, legacy effects associated with species composition of the overstory before and/or after thinning along with average stem diameter post‐thinning, variation in stem diameter post‐thinning, and age at the time of thinning were more influential than density or thinning intensity. This study provides evidence that conserving species diversity during forest management activities can have positive long‐term effects on composition and function of the woody understory and increase restoration potential.
Toxic waste and public procurement: The defense sector as a disproportionate contributor to pollution from public–private partnerships
Authors: Hill Dustin T. , Collins Mary B.
Published: March 2022

Public procurement is a large sector of the economy with most procurement going to the defense sector. Procurement by the defense sector includes purchases made through contracts to private businesses that manufacture durable goods. Manufacturing of these goods results in pollution production with toxic wastes being among the most dangerous pollutants for public health. Despite green purchasing policy goals, most transactions in the United States through defense contracts result in disproportionately high‐toxic pollution releases by manufacturers. We find that persistent exemptions granted defense agencies from following green purchasing policy result in a landscape where contractor environmental performance is unchanging with defense contractors persistently polluting in high amounts. Further, we find that defense contractors are linked to most toxic releases from procurement meaning that exemptions may be hindering potential advancements from green purchasing policy. Results can inform the design of new guidance about procurement and expand understanding of environmental inequality.
Reflections on course design and Islamic education
Authors: Javed Reem
Published: March 2022

In this paper, I discuss the impact of a course design class on my development and use of a syllabus for a class titled Islamic Education. In Course Design the professor taught graduate students like me how to think and plan as a teacher. In my discussion, I share how student‐ and context‐centered pedagogy, at the core of thinking and planning as a teacher, manifested effectively in the pages of my syllabus and in the space of my classroom, demonstrating that the pedagogical insight and practices I learned speak to the needs and demands of today's classroom.
Antibody response to mRNA SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination in 182 patients after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Beerlage Astrid , Leuzinger Karoline , Valore Luca , Mathew Roby , Junker Till , Drexler Beatrice , Passweg Jakob R. , Hirsch Hans H. , Halter Jörg
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Patients after allogeneic stem cell transplantation are at high risk for infection‐related complications, and vaccination efficacy might be impaired depending on the immune reconstitution. In this study, we evaluate their response to mRNA vaccines against SARS‐CoV‐2.

Methods

During routine follow‐up visits, patients were asked about their vaccination status and if they had a previous infection with SARS‐CoV‐2. In fully vaccinated patients, the antibody titer was measured using the Roche Elecsys Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 S test. A titer of <1 U/L was considered as negative, titers of ≥250 U/ml as a high antibody titer, and a titer of 50–249 U/ml as a low antibody titer. Patient characteristics were evaluated by chart review to identify risk factors for poor vaccination response.

Results

The majority of patients developed a high antibody titer (138 out 182 patients, 75.8%). Risk factors for a low antibody titer were immunosuppressive therapy, a lymphocyte count <0.9 G/L, ongoing treatment for the underlying malignancy, and active graft‐versus‐host disease (GvHD). Donor type, underlying disease, a previous SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, and sex did not significantly influence the response to the vaccination.

Discussion

While patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation have been excluded from the initial registration trials, our real‐world experience with a large patient cohort confirms the data of previous studies, showing that most patients do have a good response to mRNA vaccines against SARS‐CoV‐2. Nevertheless, a significant proportion of patients shows an inadequate vaccination, which can be improved after a third vaccination in most cases despite immunosuppressive therapy.

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Trichophyton onychomycosis and deep dermatophytosis in a post‐heart transplant patient
Authors: Sriram Nivedita , Rutherford Audrey , La Hoz Ricardo , Thomas Cristina
Published: March 2022

Deep dermatophytosis is an uncommon fungal infection of the dermis most often seen in the setting of immunocompromise. We report a case of trichophyton deep dermatophytosis in a patient with a history of orthotopic heart transplantation who presented with superficial white onychomycosis and papules and plaques on the legs.
Interventions to improve obstetric emergency referral decision making, communication and feedback between health facilities in sub‐Saharan Africa: A systematic review
Authors: Avoka Cephas K. , McArthur Eve , Banke‐Thomas Aduragbemi
Published: March 2022

Objective

The objective of the study was to review the evidence on interventions to improve obstetric emergency referral decision making, communication and feedback between health facilities in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA).

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Register and CINAHL Plus was conducted to identify studies on obstetric emergency referral in SSA. Studies were included based on pre‐defined eligibility criteria. Details of reported referral interventions were extracted and categorised. The Joanna Biggs Institute Critical Appraisal checklists were used for quality assessment of included studies. A formal narrative synthesis approach was used to summarise findings guided by the WHO's referral system flow.

Results

A total of 14 studies were included, with seven deemed high quality. Overall, 7 studies reported referral decision‐making interventions including training programmes for health facility and community health workers, use of a triage checklist and focused obstetric ultrasound, which resulted in improved knowledge and practice of recognising danger signs for referral. 9 studies reported on referral communication using mobile phones and referral letters/notes, resulting in increased communication between facilities despite telecommunication network failures. Referral decision making and communication interventions achieved a perceived reduction in maternal mortality. 2 studies focused on referral feedback, which improved collaboration between health facilities.

Conclusion

There is limited evidence on how well referral interventions work in sub‐Saharan Africa, and limited consensus regarding the framework underpinning the expected change. This review has led to the proposition of a logic model that can serve as the base for future evaluations which robustly expose the (in)efficiency of referral interventions.
Immunohematology testing using umbilical cord blood: review of the literature, survey of practice and guidance development
Authors: Hajjaj Omar I. , Clarke Gwen , Lieberman Lani ,   Canadian Obstetrical Pediatric Transfusion Network
Published: March 2022

Background

Following delivery, blood tests are performed on umbilical cord blood (CB) to avoid neonatal venipuncture. Despite widespread and longstanding CB testing, no guidelines exist to suggest which immunohematology tests should be performed on CB.

Study design and methods

We performed a scoping review, surveyed national practice, and developed guidance statements concerning CB testing. Database searches identified relevant articles. A survey was sent to all Canadian hospitals and transfusion laboratories that perform perinatal testing. A national panel of experts was convened to develop guidance statements.

Results

A total of 116 articles met the inclusion criteria and were summarized. Literature on CB testing is limited; few studies have investigated laboratory testing methodologies or validated CB test results with peripheral samples. The survey was completed by 580/597 institutions (97%); 85% were community hospitals and 16% had a neonatal intensive care unit. There is diversity in the types of CB tests performed and variability in practice. While most centers order appropriately, some laboratories routinely perform CB tests that are not clinically indicated (e.g., direct antiglobulin testing for all neonates) and other do not perform CB tests when results would be beneficial (e.g., phenotype on CB when mother has a clinically significant antibody). Fifteen guidance statements were developed.

Discussion

This study highlights variability in CB testing, likely reflecting evidence gaps, methodology differences between studies, and lack of guidelines. CB tests should only be performed when indicated and validated on this sample type. The presented guidance statements aim to standardize practice and encourage judicious CB sampling.
Compressibility and the equation of state of an optical quantum gas in a box
Authors: Busley Erik , Miranda Leon Espert , Redmann Andreas , Kurtscheid Christian , Umesh Kirankumar Karkihalli , Vewinger Frank , Weitz Martin , Schmitt Julian
Published: March 2022

The compressibility of a medium, quantifying its response to mechanical perturbations, is a fundamental property determined by the equation of state. For gases of material particles, studies of the mechanical response are well established, in fields from classical thermodynamics to cold atomic quantum gases. We demonstrate a measurement of the compressibility of a two-dimensional quantum gas of light in a box potential and obtain the equation of state for the optical medium. The experiment was carried out in a nanostructured dye-filled optical microcavity. We observed signatures of Bose-Einstein condensation at high phase-space densities in the finite-size system. Upon entering the quantum degenerate regime, the measured density response to an external force sharply increases, hinting at the peculiar prediction of an infinite compressibility of the deeply degenerate Bose gas.
Architecture and antigenicity of the Nipah virus attachment glycoprotein
Authors: Wang Zhaoqian , Amaya Moushimi , Addetia Amin , Dang Ha V. , Reggiano Gabriella , Yan Lianying , Hickey Andrew C. , DiMaio Frank , Broder Christopher C. , Veesler David
Published: March 2022

Nipah virus (NiV) and Hendra virus (HeV) are zoonotic henipaviruses (HNVs) responsible for outbreaks of encephalitis and respiratory illness. The entry of HNVs into host cells requires the attachment (G) and fusion (F) glycoproteins, which are the main targets of antibody responses. To understand viral infection and host immunity, we determined a cryo–electron microscopy structure of the NiV G homotetrameric ectodomain in complex with the nAH1.3 broadly neutralizing antibody Fab fragment. We show that a cocktail of two nonoverlapping G-specific antibodies neutralizes NiV and HeV synergistically and limits the emergence of escape mutants. Analysis of polyclonal serum antibody responses elicited by vaccination of macaques with NiV G indicates that the receptor binding head domain is immunodominant. These results pave the way for implementing multipronged therapeutic strategies against these deadly pathogens.
Relaxor ferroelectric polymer exhibits ultrahigh electromechanical coupling at low electric field
Authors: Chen Xin , Qin Hancheng , Qian Xiaoshi , Zhu Wenyi , Li Bo , Zhang Bing , Lu Wenchang , Li Ruipeng , Zhang Shihai , Zhu Lei , Domingues Dos Santos Fabrice , Bernholc J. , Zhang Q. M.
Published: March 2022

Electromechanical (EM) coupling—the conversion of energy between electric and mechanical forms—in ferroelectrics has been used for a broad range of applications. Ferroelectric polymers have weak EM coupling that severely limits their usefulness for applications. We introduced a small amount of fluorinated alkyne (FA) monomers (<2 mol %) in relaxor ferroelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene-chlorofluoroethylene) (PVDF-TrFE-CFE) terpolymer that markedly enhances the polarization change with strong EM coupling while suppressing other polarization changes that do not contribute to it. Under a low–dc bias field of 40 megavolts per meter, the relaxor tetrapolymer has an EM coupling factor (
k
33
) of 88% and a piezoelectric coefficient (
d
33
) >1000 picometers per volt. These values make this solution-processed polymer competitive with ceramic oxide piezoelectrics, with the potential for use in distinct applications.
Structural basis for potent antibody neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 variants including B.1.1.529
Authors: Zhou Tongqing , Wang Lingshu , Misasi John , Pegu Amarendra , Zhang Yi , Harris Darcy R. , Olia Adam S. , Talana Chloe Adrienna , Yang Eun Sung , Chen Man , Choe Misook , Shi Wei , Teng I-Ting , Creanga Adrian , Jenkins Claudia , Leung Kwanyee , Liu Tracy , Stancofski Erik-Stephane D. , Stephens Tyler , Zhang Baoshan , Tsybovsky Yaroslav , Graham Barney S. , Mascola John R. , Sullivan Nancy J. , Kwong Peter D.
Published: March 2022

The rapid spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) B.1.1.529 (Omicron) variant and its resistance to neutralization by vaccinee and convalescent sera are driving a search for monoclonal antibodies with potent neutralization. To provide insight into effective neutralization, we determined cryo–electron microscopy structures and evaluated receptor binding domain (RBD) antibodies for their ability to bind and neutralize B.1.1.529. Mutations altered 16% of the B.1.1.529 RBD surface, clustered on an RBD ridge overlapping the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)–binding surface and reduced binding of most antibodies. Substantial inhibitory activity was retained by select monoclonal antibodies—including A23-58.1, B1-182.1, COV2-2196, S2E12, A19-46.1, S309, and LY-CoV1404—that accommodated these changes and neutralized B.1.1.529. We identified combinations of antibodies with synergistic neutralization. The analysis revealed structural mechanisms for maintenance of potent neutralization against emerging variants.
Escaping a planet in peril
A House Between Earth and the Moon
Rebecca Scherm
Viking, 2022. 400 pp.
Authors: Baumer Eric P. S.
Published: March 2022

A tech company bankrolls a space-based retreat for Earth’s elite. What could go wrong?
Effective surveillance of variants
Authors: Kucharski Adam J. , Cohen Cheryl
Published: March 2022

Community testing studies can provide insights as SARS-CoV-2 evolves
In Science Journals
Authors: Vinson Valda , Szuromi Phil , Lavine Marc S. , Erkes Dan A. , Osborne Ian S. , Chemler Sherry , Stern Peter , Yeston Jake , Zahn Laura M. , Grocholski Brent , Alderton Gemma , Ash Caroline , Charneski Catherine A. , VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: March 2022

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
In Other Journals
Authors: Hines Pamela J. , Lavine Marc S. , Ash Caroline , Jiang Di , Stern Peter , Stajic Jelena , Funk Michael A.
Published: March 2022

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
War halts animal tracking project
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: March 2022

As space station antenna goes silent, ICARUS seeks new ways to collect animal GPS data
Brain implant enables man in locked-in state to communicate
Authors: Servick Kelly
Published: March 2022

Despite complete paralysis from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, person used neural signals to spell out thoughts