bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CTCF barrier breaking by ZFP661 promotes protocadherin diversity in mammalian brains
Authors: Jin Jinpu , Ralls Sherry , Wu Elaine , Wolf Gernot , Sun Ming-An , Springer Danielle A. , Cosby Rachel L. , Senft Anna D. , Macfarlan Todd S.
Published: May 2023

Mammalian brains are larger and more densely packed with neurons than reptiles, but the genetic mechanisms underlying the increased connection complexity amongst neurons are unclear. The expression diversity of clustered protocadherins (Pcdhs), which is controlled by CTCF and cohesin, is crucial for proper dendritic arborization and cortical connectivity in vertebrates. Here, we identify a highly-conserved and mammalian-restricted protein, ZFP661, that binds antagonistically at CTCF barriers at thePcdhlocus, preventing CTCF from trapping cohesin. ZFP661 balances the usage of Pcdh isoforms and increases Pcdh expression diversity. Loss ofZfp661causes cortical dendritic arborization defects and autism-like social deficits in mice. Our study reveals both a novel mechanism that regulates the trapping of cohesin by CTCF and a mammalian adaptation that promoted Pcdh expression diversity to accompany the expanded mammalian brain.

One sentence summary

ZFP661 blocks cohesin trapping by CTCF and increases protocadherin diversity for proper cortical dendritic arborization.
Using CRISPR/Cas9 to identify genes required for mechanosensory neuron development and function
Authors: Johnson Christopher J. , Kulkarni Akhil , Buxton William J. , Hui Tsz Y. , Kayastha Anusha , Khoja Alwin A. , Leandre Joviane , Mehta Vanshika V. , Ostrowski Logan , Pareizs Erica G. , Scotto Rebecca L. , Vargas Vanesa , Vellingiri Raveena M. , Verzino Giulia , Vohra Rhea , Wakade Saurabh C. , Winkeljohn Veronica M. , Winkeljohn Victoria M. , Rotterman Travis M. , Stolfi Alberto
Published: May 2023

Tunicates are marine, non-vertebrate chordates that comprise the sister group to the vertebrates. Most tunicates have a biphasic lifecycle that alternates between a swimming larva and a sessile adult. Recent advances have shed light on the neural basis for the tunicate larva’s ability to sense a proper substrate for settlement and initiate metamorphosis. Work in the highly tractable laboratory model tunicateCiona robustasuggests that sensory neurons embedded in the anterior papillae of transduce mechanosensory stimuli to trigger larval tail retraction and initiate the process of metamorphosis. Here, we take advantage of the low-cost and simplicity ofCionaby using tissue-specific CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutagenesis to screen for genes potentially involved in mechanosensation and metamorphosis, in the context of an undergraduate “capstone” research course. This small screen revealed at least one gene,Vamp1/2/3, that appears crucial for the ability of the papillae to trigger metamorphosis. We also provide step-by-step protocols and tutorials associated with this course, in the hope that it might be replicated in similar CRISPR-based laboratory courses whereverCionaare available.
Revealing and reshaping attractor dynamics in large networks of cortical neurons
Authors: Beer Chen , Barak Omri
Published: May 2023

Attractors play a key role in a wide range of processes including learning and memory. Due to recent innovations in recording methods, there is increasing evidence for the existence of attractor dynamics in the brain. Yet, our understanding of how these attractors emerge or disappear in a biological system is lacking.

By following the spontaneous network bursts of cultured cortical networks, we are able to define a vocabulary of spatiotemporal patterns and show that they function as discrete attractors in the network dynamics. We show that electrically stimulating specific attractors eliminates them from the spontaneous vocabulary, while they are still robustly evoked by the electrical stimulation. This seemingly paradoxical finding can be explained by a Hebbian-like strengthening of specific pathways into the attractors, at the expense of weakening non-evoked pathways into the same attractors. We verify this hypothesis and provide a mechanistic explanation for the underlying changes supporting this effect.

Author summary

There are many hints that could evoke the same memory. There are many chains of evidence that could lead to the same decision. The mathematical object describing such dynamics is called an attractor, and is believed to be the neural basis for many cognitive phenomena. In this study, we aimed to deepen our understanding of the existence and plasticity of attractors in the dynamics of a biological neural network. We explored the spontaneous activity of cultured neural networks and identified a set of patterns that function as discrete attractors in the network dynamics. To understand how these attractors evolve, we stimulated the network to repeatedly visit some of them. Surprisingly, we observed that the stimulated patterns became less common in the spontaneous activity, while still being reliably evoked by the stimulation. This paradoxical finding was explained by the strengthening of specific pathways leading to these attractors, alongside the weakening of other pathways. These findings provide valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying attractor plasticity in biological neural networks.
Influence of laser scanning power on microstructure and tribological behavior of NI-composite claddings fabricated on TC4 titanium alloy
Authors: Miah Md. Helal , Singh Chand Dharmahinder , Malhi Gurmail Singh , Khan Shahrukh
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The demand for titanium alloys has received massive attention in the aerospace and automotive industry owing to their magnificent electrochemically compatibility and corrosion resistance, high strength at elevated temperatures and high strength-to-weight ratio. Although titanium alloy has impressive mechanical properties, they are challenging to machine or metal form due to its poor heat conductivity, high chemical reactivity, low modulus of elasticity, high friction coefficient and difficult lubricant that limits its application field and increases wear. However, surface treatment coating with the strong metallurgical bond between the titanium alloy matrixes is novel technique to resolve these challenges. This research will illustrate the influence of laser scanning power on the microstructure and tribological behavior of Nickel (NI)-composite claddings fabricated on TC4 titanium alloy to realize the strong metallurgical bond between the titanium alloy and NI-composite coating.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, TiC/TC4 alloy nanocomposites were fabricated based on different laser power and temperatures. TC4 has been selected as a base material instead of TiC for the strong metallurgical bond between the titanium alloy matrixes. Then Ni-composite coating was used as the surface treatment coating on TC4 by laser cladding (LC) technique. The Ni-based alloy coating material powder is good self-fluxing, has high-temperature resistance and is analytically pure with 200 mesh, which can easily overcome the various challenges of titanium alloy. The chemical properties of Ni composite coating include 31.2% Chromium, 8%Titenium and 3.6% Carbon. The prepared surface treatment coating characterization and microstructure behavior are analyzed using optical micrograph, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopes, energy dispersive spectroscopy and electron probe micro analyzer methods.

Findings

It is evident that at the beginning of the experiment, if the laser power increased, the quality of the coating increased. An optimal quality of the coating is found when the laser scanning power about 12.55 kJ/cm2. Further increased laser power diminished the quality of the coating because the material plasticity had deteriorated. The TiC ceramic particle reinforced phase is dispersed into a two-phase solid solution of β-Ti and γ-Ni. The micro-hardness of the used coating is greater than the base alloy.

Originality/value

This research has practical value in the modern aerospace and automobile industry to increase the application of titanium alloy.
Cybergogy paradigms for technology-infused learning in higher education 4.0: a critical analysis from global perspective
Authors: Asad Muhammad Mujtaba , Malik Aisha
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Unprecedented progressions in the sector of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have led to the trendsetting of Education 4.0 paradigms. A byproduct of breakthroughs in Education 4.0 is the “Cybergogy” paradigm that particularly stimulates learning and builds competencies in a virtual environment for the new era. Toward that, the objective of this review paper is to explore how cyber-physical learning is being adopted within cybergogy paradigms with its current state-of-the-art, traits, design models, applications and difficulties in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) around the globe.

Design/methodology/approach

A narrative review of literature has been conducted in which major electronic bibliographic databases are targeted for study selection. Seven themes have emerged from the literature search that descript the resourcefulness, inventiveness and challenges of cyber-technology in transferring learning and interaction in and outside HEI boundary walls.

Findings

Grounded on the findings, it is valuable to mention that cybergogy media facilitates an array of options for collaboration, information gathering, intellectual discussions, the convenience of access, etc. among higher education learners. Consisting of interconnected technology, distinctive intricate digital systems and physical elements working together, the trend has implementation efforts of a smart learning institution for providing engaged learning and advanced skills training. However, there are certain implementation risks and consequences that must be considered thoughtfully.

Practical implications

This review can be used as an effective guide in designing cyber-technology-mediated teaching instruction and strategies for supporting collaborations and inventive learning in higher academia. Future researchers interested in exploring cyber-physical blends and media usage in education will also be facilitated with this review.

Originality/value

This literature review is unique because it details significant practices of collaborative learning for the twenty-first century through cybergogy in Higher Education 4.0 that was not examined previously.
The impact of nutrition labeling on consumer perceptions of wine
Authors: Popovich Deidre , Velikova Natalia
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine how consumers perceive nutrition labeling on wine and how this information impacts healthiness perceptions of wine.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of four experiments focused on healthiness perceptions and purchase likelihood.

Findings

Consumers who read wine labels rate wine as significantly less healthy. Sugar content affects healthiness perceptions of wine more than calories. Changing the serving size on the label moderates these effects. Consumers high in dietary restraint process this nutrition information differently.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could examine actual purchase behavior using retail data.

Practical implications

This study has implications for consumers, manufacturers and public policy. While currently most consumers are not motivated to read a nutrition label on wine, specific nutrition information can impact consumer perceptions of wine. Consumer education is recommended.

Originality/value

Research on nutrition labeling of alcohol specifically has been very limited.
Emotional capital in schools: principals' caring leadership as a moderator of the mediated association between emotional geographies and school climate
Authors: Berkovich Izhak
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The caring leadership of principals is viewed as a professional method for utilizing emotional capital. The present study investigated the moderating relationship of caring leadership with the associations between emotional geographies, emotional distance and school climate.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from a cross-sectional survey of 305 Israeli teachers working in public schools were used to investigate a model of moderated mediation.

Findings

Caring leadership of principals moderates the association of emotional distance with school climate and is related to mediated associations between emotional geographies and school climate.

Originality/value

This is the first study to combine Hargreaves' theory of emotional geographies of schools with principals' caring leadership, providing insight on the role of school leadership in bridging fundamental gaps between key actors and treating crippling emotional dynamics.
Queueing networks for supporting container storage and retrieval
Authors: Legato Pasquale , Mazza Rina Mary
Published: May 2023

Purpose

An integrated queueing network focused on container storage/retrieval operations occurring on the yard of a transshipment hub is proposed. The purpose of the network is to support decisions related to the organization of the yard area, while also accounting for operations policies and times on the quay.

Design/methodology/approach

A discrete-event simulation model is used to reproduce container handling on both the quay and yard areas, along with the transfer operations between the two. The resulting times, properly estimated by the simulation output, are fed to a simpler queueing network amenable to solution via algorithms based on mean value analysis (MVA) for product-form networks.

Findings

Numerical results justify the proposed approach for getting a fast, yet accurate analytical solution that allows carrying out performance evaluation with respect to both organizational policies and operations management on the yard area.

Practical implications

Practically, the expected performance measures on the yard subsystem can be obtained avoiding additional time-expensive simulation experiments on the entire detailed model.

Originality/value

As a major takeaway, deepening the MVA for generally distributed service times has proven to produce reliable estimations on expected values for both user- and system-oriented performance metrics.
Impact of major stock markets on China's stock market
Authors: Hull Robert M. , Habib Ashfaq , Khan Muhammad Asif
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The main purpose is to explore the impact of major stock markets on China's market where major markets are represented by former G8 nations (current G7 and Russia).

Design/methodology/approach

The article makes use of: stationarity tests (ADF and PP unit root); long-run correlation tests (Johansen integration involving trace and maximum eigenvalue); impact of G8 markets on China (VECM test); influence of G8 markets on volatility in China's market (variance decomposition analysis) and, effect from shocks in G8 markets on China (impulse response function).

Findings

Using a period of 2009–2019 that avoids detecting linkages caused by interdependencies created by two major international crises, the article offers four major findings. First, except for Germany and Russia, G8 markets have a significant causal influence on China with UK having the greatest. Second, G8 markets are not the major source of short-run fluctuation in China's market but over time exercise a noteworthy collective impact with UK having the greatest impact. Third, there are occasions for international portfolio diversification with China's market providing greater diversification than G8 nations. Fourth, all markets provide a short-run window of abnormal profit.

Research limitations/implications

The indexes used to represent national markets are assumed to be adequate representations.

Practical implications

Short-term abnormal profits exist. Investing in China, compared to G8 countries, offers greater portfolio diversification possibilities.

Social implications

Removal of trade and investment barriers cause greater market integration.

Originality/value

By using recent data, this study reveals that G8 stock markets influence China's market.
Screening for silent aspiration in hyperacute stroke: A feasibility study of clinical swallowing examination and cough reflex testing
Authors: Trimble Julie , Patterson Joanne M. , Wilson Janet A. , Dixit Anand K. , Drinnan Michael
Published: May 2023

Background

Silent aspiration (SA) is common post‐stroke and associated with increased risk of pneumonia, length of stay and healthcare costs. Clinical swallow examinations (CSEs) are unreliable measures of SA. There is no consensus on the clinical components that best detect SA. Cough reflex testing (CRT) is an alternative/adjunct whose SA detection accuracy also lacks consensus.

Aims

To investigate the feasibility of CSE versus CRT against gold standard flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) for SA identification and to estimate its prevalence in a hyperacute stroke setting.

Methods & Procedures

A single‐arm preliminary, prospective, feasibility study of patients less than 72 h post‐stroke, over a 31‐day period on a hyperacute stroke unit: the Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle‐upon‐Tyne, UK. Ethical approval for the study was obtained. The study tested the feasibility and acceptability of introducing CRT and developing a standardized CSE. Consent/assent was obtained for all participants. Patients unfit for study were excluded.

Outcomes & Results

A total of 62% of patients less than 72 h post‐stroke (n = 61) were eligible. A total of 75% of those approached (n = 30) consented. A total of 23 patients completed all tests. The principal barrier was anxiety regarding FEES. Mean test time for CRT = 6 min; CSE = 8 min; FEES = 17 min. Patients rated CRT and FEES on average as moderately uncomfortable. A total of 30% (n = 7) of participants who received FEES presented with SA.

Conclusions & Implications

CRT, CSE and FEES are feasible in 58% of hyperacute stroke patients in this setting. FEES anxiety is the main recruitment barrier and is not always well tolerated. Results support further work to establish optimum methods and differential sensitivity/specificity of CRT and CSE in hyperacute stroke for SA identification.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

What is already known on this subject

SA significantly increases the risk of pneumonia in the early days post‐stroke. CSEs are unreliable for identification of SA risk in this population. CRT is gaining popularity as a potential tool to identify stroke patients at risk of SA, though there are questions regarding the efficacy of the clinical protocol currently being used in the UK.

What this study adds to existing knowledge

This study demonstrates that it is practical and feasible to carry out a larger scale study in this setting to compare CSE and CRT including a consideration of an approach combining both methods for clinical identification of SA versus FEES. Preliminary findings suggest that CSE may have higher levels of sensitivity than CRT for SA identification.

What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?

The results of this study suggest that further work is needed to establish the optimum methods and differential sensitivity/specificity of clinical tools for SA detection in hyperacute stroke.
Spatial analysis of future climate risk to stormwater infrastructure
Authors: Butcher Jonathan B. , Sarkar Saumya , Johnson Thomas E. , Shabani Afshin
Published: May 2023

Climate change is expected to result in more intense precipitation events that will affect the performance and design requirements of stormwater infrastructure. Such changes will vary spatially, and climate models provide a range of estimates of the effects on events of different intensities and recurrence. Infrastructure performance should be evaluated against the expected range of events, not just rare extremes. We present a national‐scale, spatially detailed screening assessment of the potential effects of climatic change on precipitation, stormwater runoff, and associated design requirements. This is accomplished through adjustment relative to multiple future climate scenarios of precipitation intensity–duration–frequency analyses presented in NOAA Atlas 14, which are commonly used in infrastructure design. Future precipitation results are estimated for each Atlas 14 station (these currently omit the Pacific Northwest). Results are interpolated using a geographically conditioned regression kriging approach to provide information about potential climate change impacts in a format more directly useful to local stormwater managers. The intensity of 24‐h events with 2‐year or greater recurrence is likely to increase in most areas of the United States leading to increased runoff and potential need for increased storage volumes. Changes in more frequent events (e.g., the 90th percentile event) commonly used in design of green infrastructure are relatively less.
Autoimmune diseases post‐COVID 19 infection in children in intensive care unit: A case series
Authors: Das Subhadipa , Parul  , Samanta Moumita
Published: May 2023

SARS‐CoV2 primarily affects the respiratory system but a hyperinflammatory response leading to multisystem inflammatory syndrome – children (MIS‐C), immune dysfunction and various autoimmune manifestations has also been noted. Autoimmunity depends on various factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, immune dysregulation and infections acting as triggers like Epstein‐Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B. Molecular mimicry, bystander T‐cell activation and persistence of viral infection are the main mechanisms behind these manifestations. We present here 3 cases of newly diagnosed connective tissue disease with high titers of COVID19 immunoglobulin G antibody in children. A 9‐year‐old girl with fever, oliguria and malar rash (prior history of sore throat) and a 10‐year‐old girl with fever for 2 weeks and choreoathetoid movements were diagnosed as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) nephritis (stage 4) and neuropsychiatric SLE, respectively as per European League Against Rheumatism / American College of Rheumatology 2019 criteria. An 8‐year‐old girl with fever, joint pain and respiratory distress (a recent contact with a positive COVID19 patient) presented with altered sensorium, Raynaud's phenomenon noted, and eventually diagnosed as mixed connective tissue disease as per Kusukawa criteria. The immune‐mediated manifestations post‐COVID infection are a de‐novo phenomenon which necessitates further workup as not many studies exist in the pediatric population.
Spatial resolution of cellular senescence dynamics in human colorectal liver metastasis
Authors: Garbarino Ombretta , Lambroia Luca , Basso Gianluca , Marrella Veronica , Franceschini Barbara , Soldani Cristiana , Pasqualini Fabio , Giuliano Desiree , Costa Guido , Peano Clelia , Barbarossa Davide , Annarita Destro , Salvati Andreina , Terracciano Luigi , Torzilli Guido , Donadon Matteo , Faggioli Francesca
Published: May 2023

Hepatic metastasis is a clinical challenge for colorectal cancer (CRC). Senescent cancer cells accumulate in CRC favoring tumor dissemination. Whether this mechanism progresses also in metastasis is unexplored. Here, we integrated spatial transcriptomics, 3D‐microscopy, and multicellular transcriptomics to study the role of cellular senescence in human colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM). We discovered two distinct senescent metastatic cancer cell (SMCC) subtypes, transcriptionally located at the opposite pole of epithelial (e) to mesenchymal (m) transition. SMCCs differ in chemotherapy susceptibility, biological program, and prognostic roles. Mechanistically, epithelial (e)SMCC initiation relies on nucleolar stress, whereby c‐myc dependent oncogene hyperactivation induces ribosomal RPL11 accumulation and DNA damage response. In a 2D pre‐clinical model, we demonstrated that RPL11 co‐localized with HDM2, a p53‐specific ubiquitin ligase, leading to senescence activation in (e)SMCCs. On the contrary, mesenchymal (m)SMCCs undergo TGFβ paracrine activation of NOX4‐p15 effectors. SMCCs display opposing effects also in the immune regulation of neighboring cells, establishing an immunosuppressive environment or leading to an active immune workflow. Both SMCC signatures are predictive biomarkers whose unbalanced ratio determined the clinical outcome in CRLM and CRC patients. Altogether, we provide a comprehensive new understanding of the role of SMCCs in CRLM and highlight their potential as new therapeutic targets to limit CRLM progression.
18F‐FMISO PET‐guided dose escalation with multifield optimization intensity‐modulated proton therapy in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Sommat Kiattisa , Tong Aaron Kian Ti , Ong Ashley Li Kuan , Hu Jing , Sin Sze Yarn , Lam Winnie Wing Chuen , Xie Wanying , Khor Yiu Ming , Lim Cindy , Lim Tze Wei , Selvarajan Sathiyamoorthy , Wang Fuqiang , Tan Terence Wee Kiat , Wee Joseph Tien Seng , Soong Yoke Lim , Fong Kam Weng , Hennedige Tiffany , Hua Thng Choon
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radiotherapy planning feasibility of dose escalation with intensity‐modulated proton therapy (IMPT) to hypoxic tumor regions identified on 18F‐Fluoromisonidazole (FMISO) positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET‐CT) in NPC.

Materials and methods

Nine patients with stages T3‐4N0‐3M0 NPC underwent 18F‐FMISO PET‐CT before and during week 3 of radiotherapy. The hypoxic volume (GTVhypo) is automatically generated by applying a subthresholding algorithm within the gross tumor volume (GTV) with a tumor to muscle standardized uptake value (SUV) ratio of 1.3 on the 18F‐FMISO PET‐CT scan. Two proton plans were generated for each patient, a standard plan to 70 Gy and dose escalation plan with upfront boost followed by standard 70GyE plan. The stereotactic boost was planned with single‐field uniform dose optimization using two fields to deliver 10 GyE in two fractions to GTVhypo. The standard plan was generated with IMPT with robust optimization to deliver 70GyE, 60GyE in 33 fractions using simultaneous integrated boost technique. A plan sum was generated for assessment.

Results

Eight of nine patients showed tumor hypoxia on the baseline 18F‐FMISO PET‐CT scan. The mean hypoxic tumor volume was 3.9 cm3 (range .9–11.9cm3). The average SUVmax of the hypoxic volume was 2.2 (range 1.44–2.98). All the dose‐volume parameters met the planning objectives for target coverage. Dose escalation was not feasible in three of eight patients as the D0.03cc of temporal lobe was greater than 75GyE.

Conclusions

The utility of boost to the hypoxic volume before standard course of radiotherapy with IMPT is dosimetrically feasible in selected patients. Clinical trials are warranted to determine the clinical outcomes of this approach.
Fine‐scale variation in soil and topography influences herbaceous vegetation and the distribution of large mammalian herbivores
Authors: Ang'ila Robert O. , Kimuyu Duncan M. , Wambugu Geoffrey M. , Kenfack David , Musili Paul M. , Kartzinel Tyler R.
Published: May 2023

Current understanding of the distribution of vegetation and large mammalian herbivores (LMH) is based on a combination of biogeographic studies and highly controlled field experiments, but a more complete understanding of these patterns requires study of their natural co‐occurrence patterns at intermediate spatial scales. The study was conducted in the 120‐ha Mpala Forest Global Earth Observatory (ForestGEO) plot, Kenya. We examined differences in herbaceous plant communities and habitat use by LMH among three topographic habitats with distinct soil types, namely steep slopes, valley and plateau. Each pair of habitats differed in plant and animal composition. The steep slopes and plateau respectively had ≥1‐fold higher percentage herbaceous cover than the valley, whereas the steep slopes and valley had >1.5‐fold greater grass species richness and diversity than the plateau. The activity of LMH was ≥1.7‐fold higher in the valley than the steep slopes and plateau, reflecting a positive relationship between LMH activity index and richness and diversity of grass species. Results indicate that fine‐scale variation in topography and soil are associated with both the distribution of herbaceous vegetation and LMH, suggesting a need to account for local habitat characteristics when examining the distributions of plants, animals, and plant‐herbivore interactions in natural systems.
Asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnancy
Authors: SHEPPARD Madeleine , IBIEBELE Ibinabo , NIPPITA Tanya , MORRIS Jonathan
Published: May 2023

Background

Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) is associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes and is routinely screened for and treated in the first trimester. Prevalence of ASB in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy is unknown.

Aims

The aim is to determine the prevalence of ASB in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.

Methods

Prospective cohort study of 150 pregnant women. Mid‐stream urine samples were tested for ASB in the second (24–28+6) and third (32–36+6) trimesters. Women were assigned to one of two groups: (i) ASB in any trimester of pregnancy and (ii) no evidence of ASB in pregnancy. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were compared between groups.

Results

Among 143 women included in the study, the rate of ASB was 4.9% (2.1, 2.1 and 3.2% in the first, second and third trimesters, respectively). Of those with ASB, 14% had it in every trimester, whereas 43% had it on two or more samples. Of those with ASB in pregnancy, 43% were detected for the first time in the third trimester. Rates of maternal and neonatal outcomes were not statistically significantly different between the two groups. No women with ASB were induced for chorioamnionitis or growth restriction.

Conclusion

The rate of ASB was highest in the third trimester of pregnancy, with rates of 2.1, 2.1 and 3.2% in the first, second and third trimesters, respectively. This study was underpowered to assess maternal and fetal outcomes. Although numbers were small, the absence of ASB in the first trimester was a poor predictor of ASB in the third trimester.
Functional characterization of novel or yet uncharacterized ATP7B missense variants detected in patients with clinical Wilson's disease
Authors: Stalke Amelie , Behrendt Annika , Hennig Finja , Gohlke Holger , Buhl Nicole , Reinkens Thea , Baumann Ulrich , Schlegelberger Brigitte , Illig Thomas , Pfister Eva‐Doreen , Skawran Britta
Published: May 2023

Wilson's disease (WD, MIM#277900) is an autosomal recessive disorder resulting in copper excess caused by biallelic variants in the ATP7B gene (MIM#606882) encoding a copper transporting P‐type ATPase. ATP7B variants of unknown significance (VUS) are detected frequently, sometimes impeding a clear diagnosis. Functional analyses can help to classify these variants as benign or pathogenic. Additionally, variants already classified as (likely) pathogenic benefit from functional analyses to understand their pathomechanism, thus contribute to the development of personalized treatment approaches in the future. We described clinical features of six WD patients and functionally characterized five ATP7B missense variants (two VUS, three yet uncharacterized likely pathogenic variants), detected in these patients. We determined the protein level, copper export capacity, and cellular localization in an in vitro model and potential structural consequences using an ATP7B protein model based on AlphaFold. Our analyses give insight into the pathomechanism and allowed reclassification for the two VUS to likely pathogenic and for two of the three likely pathogenic variants to pathogenic.
Radiotherapy and radio‐sensitization in H3K27M‐mutated diffuse midline gliomas
Authors: Liu Chao , Kuang Shuwen , Wu Lei , Cheng Quan , Gong Xuan , Wu Jun , Zhang Longbo
Published: May 2023

Background

H3K27M mutated diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs) are extremely aggressive and the leading cause of cancer‐related deaths in pediatric brain tumors with 5‐year survival <1%. Radiotherapy is the only established adjuvant treatment of H3K27M DMGs; however, the radio‐resistance is commonly observed.

Methods

We summarized current understandings of the molecular responses of H3K27M DMGs to radiotherapy and provide crucial insights into current advances in radiosensitivity enhancement.

Results

Ionizing radiation (IR) can mainly inhibit tumor cell growth by inducing DNA damage regulated by the cell cycle checkpoints and DNA damage repair (DDR) system. In H3K27M DMGs, the aberrant genetic and epigenetic changes, stemness genotype, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) disrupt the cell cycle checkpoints and DDR system by altering the associated regulatory signaling pathways, which leads to the development of radio‐resistance.

Conclusions

The advances in mechanisms of radio‐resistance in H3K27M DMGs promote the potential targets to enhance the sensitivity to radiotherapy.
Changes in cerebral autoregulation, stroke‐related blood biomarkers, and autonomic regulation after patent foramen ovale closure in severe migraine patients
Authors: Guo Zhen‐Ni , Qu Yang , Gao Yongsheng , Xing Yingqi , Ma Hongyin , Liu Jia , Guo Yu‐Zhu , Chang Junlei , Zhang Peng , Jin Hang , Sun Xin , Han Ke , Hu Han‐Hwa , He Qianyan , Simpson David Martin , Yang Yi
Published: May 2023

Aims

This study aimed to investigate changes in dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA), 20 stroke‐related blood biomarkers, and autonomic regulation after patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure in severe migraine patients.

Methods

Patent foramen ovale severe migraine patients, matched non‐PFO severe migraine patients, and healthy controls were included. dCA and autonomic regulation were evaluated in each participant at baseline, and within 48‐h and 30 days after closure in PFO migraineurs. A panel of stroke‐related blood biomarkers was detected pre‐surgically in arterial‐and venous blood, and post‐surgically in the arterial blood in PFO migraineurs.

Results

Forty‐five PFO severe migraine patients, 50 non‐PFO severe migraine patients, and 50 controls were enrolled. The baseline dCA function of PFO migraineurs was significantly lower than that of non‐PFO migraineurs and controls but was rapidly improved with PFO closure, remaining stable at 1‐month follow‐up. Arterial blood platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB (PDGF‐BB) levels were higher in PFO migraineurs than in controls, which was immediately and significantly reduced after closure. No differences in autonomic regulation were observed among the three groups.

Conclusion

Patent foramen ovale closure can improve dCA and alter elevated arterial PDGF‐BB levels in migraine patients with PFO, both of which may be related to the preventive effect of PFO closure on stroke occurrence/recurrence.
Pulmonary tuberculosis associated acute fibrinous and organizing pneumonia: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zhao Xiang , Cheng Yuan , Xiong Yan , Wang Guangfa
Published: May 2023

Background

Acute fibrinous and organizing pneumonia (AFOP) is a rare histological interstitial pneumonia pattern characterized by patches of “fibrin balls” distributed within the alveoli and organizing pneumonia. Currently, there is no consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Methods

We present the case of a 44‐year‐old male with AFOP secondary to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. We have further reviewed organizing pneumonia (OP) and AFOP caused by tuberculosis.

Conclusion

Tuberculosis secondary to OP or AFOP is rare and challenging to diagnose. We need to constantly adjust the treatment plan based on the patient's symptoms, test results, and response to treatment in order to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and maximize treatment efficacy.
A cost assessment of intensive wild quail management on private lands in the southeastern United States
Authors: Nimlos Nicole M. , Martin James A. , Palmer William E. , Sisson D. Clay , Pienaar Elizabeth F.
Published: May 2023

Private landowners who operate multifunctional landscapes play a critical role in the conservation of native and imperiled species, and the restoration of native ecosystems. In the southeastern United States, both northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) and pine savanna ecosystems are imperiled and heavily reliant on conservation efforts by private landowners. Engaging private landowners in the restoration and management of pine savannas and grasslands is essential to the recovery of northern bobwhite, which is also managed as a game species. Since the early 1900s, the cultural tradition of wild bobwhite hunting has motivated landowners to manage their properties to increase bobwhite populations. However, the costs and revenues associated with intensive wild bobwhite management and hunting are imperfectly understood. From May 2021 to February 2022, we conducted semistructured interviews with landowners and land managers of 37 wild bobwhite hunting properties (total of 65,317 ha in bobwhite management) in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina to enumerate the costs and revenues associated with intensive wild bobwhite management. Landowners spent an average of $154/acre/year (~$381/ha/year; median of $142/acre/year or ~$352/ha/year) to manage for northern bobwhite. These costs included salaries and benefits for labor, depreciated equipment and infrastructure expenditures, and other supplies (e.g., fuel, seed) needed to maintain wild bobwhite populations and their habitat. Few properties offset their bobwhite management costs with revenues generated on the property, including hunting revenues. Non‐financial motivations for owning a bobwhite property included a strong land stewardship ethic, the desire to maintain rural lifestyles and family heritage, and securing hunting and recreational opportunities. Through wild quail management, private landowners are helping to secure critical habitat for threatened and endangered species and increasing the landscape's overall resilience to climate change without the use of public funding.
Phenotypic trait differences betweenIris pseudacorusin native and introduced ranges support greater capacity of invasive populations to withstand sea level rise
Authors: Grewell Brenda J. , Gallego‐Tévar Blanca , Bárcenas‐Moreno Gael , Whitcraft Christine R. , Thorne Karen M. , Buffington Kevin J. , Castillo Jesús M.
Published: May 2023

Aim

Tidal wetlands are greatly impacted by climate change, and by the invasion of alien plant species that are being exposed to salinity changes and longer inundation periods resulting from sea level rise. To explore the capacity for the invasion ofIris pseudacorusto persist with sea level rise, we initiated an intercontinental study along estuarine gradients in the invaded North American range and the native European range.

Location

San Francisco Bay‐Delta Estuary; California, USA and Guadalquivir River Estuary; Andalusia, Spain.

Methods

We compared 15 morphological, biochemical, and reproductive plant traits within populations in both ranges to determine if specific functional traits can predict invasion success and if environmental factors explain observed phenotypic differences.

Results

AlienI. pseudacorusplants in the introduced range had more robust growth than plants in the native range. The vigour of the alien plants was reflected by expression of higher leaf water content, fewer senescent leaves per leaf fan, and more carbohydrate storage reserves in rhizomes than plants in the native range. Moreover, alien plants tended to show higher specific leaf area and seed production than native plants.I. pseudacorusplants in the introduced range were less affected by increasing salinity and were exposed to deeper inundation water along the estuarine gradient than those in the native range.

Main Conclusions

Functional trait differences suggest mature populations ofI. pseudacorusin the introduced range have greater adapted capacity to adjust to environmental stresses induced by rising sea level than those in the native range. Knowledge of these trait responses can be applied to improve risk assessments in invaded estuaries and to achieve climate‐adapted conservation goals for conservation of the species in its native range.
Leaving no one behind: Cerebral palsy in indigenous populations
Authors: Lynch Sally Ann
Published: May 2023

This commentary is on the original article by Martin et al. on pages 1475–1485 of this issue.
Recent exposure to environmental stochasticity does not determine the demographic resilience of natural populations
Authors: Cant James , Capdevila Pol , Beger Maria , Salguero‐Gómez Roberto
Published: May 2023

Escalating climatic and anthropogenic pressures expose ecosystems worldwide to increasingly stochastic environments. Yet, our ability to forecast the responses of natural populations to this increased environmental stochasticity is impeded by a limited understanding of how exposure to stochastic environments shapes demographic resilience. Here, we test the association between local environmental stochasticity and the resilience attributes (e.g. resistance, recovery) of 2242 natural populations across 369 animal and plant species. Contrary to the assumption that past exposure to frequent environmental shifts confers a greater ability to cope with current and future global change, we illustrate how recent environmental stochasticity regimes from the past 50 years do not predict the inherent resistance or recovery potential of natural populations. Instead, demographic resilience is strongly predicted by the phylogenetic relatedness among species, with survival and developmental investments shaping their responses to environmental stochasticity. Accordingly, our findings suggest that demographic resilience is a consequence of evolutionary processes and/or deep‐time environmental regimes, rather than recent‐past experiences.
Decreased emotion recognition and reduced focus on facial hallmarks in behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia compared to primary psychiatric disorders and controls
Authors: Fieldhouse Jay L. P. , Singleton Ellen H. , van Engelen Marie‐Paule E. , van't Hooft Jochum J. , de Boer Sterre C. M. , Froeling Violet E. , Braun Michelle , Oudega Mardien L. , van Grootheest Daniël , Kerssens Cora , Duits Flora H. , van Harten Argonde C. , Vijverberg Everard G. B. , Pijnenburg Yolande A. L.
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

Early diagnosis of behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) is challenging due to symptomatic overlap with primary psychiatric disorders (PPD). As emotion recognition deficits are early and key features of bvFTD, the aim was to explore processes driving social cognition deficits that may aid in the differentiation between bvFTD and PPD.

Methods

The total sample (N = 51) included 18 patients with bvFTD, 11 patients with PPD (mood, autism spectrum and psychotic disorders) and 22 controls from the Alzheimer Center Amsterdam of the Amsterdam UMC. Emotion recognition was assessed with the Ekman 60 Faces test, during which eye tracking metrics were collected in the first 5 s a face was presented. Group differences in dwell time on the total image as well as the circumscribed eyes area and mouth area were analysed using ANOVA, with post hoc comparisons.

Results

Patients with bvFTD scored lowest, patients with PPD scored intermediate and controls scored highest on emotion recognition. During facial processing, patients with bvFTD spent less dwell time on the total image than controls (mean difference 11.3%, F(2, 48) = 6.095, p = 0.004; bvFTD−controls p = 0.001, 95% confidence interval [CI] −892.64, −239.70). Dwell time on the eyes area did not differ between diagnostic groups, whilst patients with bvFTD spent less dwell time on the mouth area than PPD patients (mean difference 10.7%; F(2, 48) = 3.423, p = 0.041; bvFTD−PPD p = 0.022, 95% CI −986.38, −79.47) and controls (mean difference 7.8%; bvFTD−controls p = 0.043, 95% CI −765.91, −12.76).

Conclusions

In bvFTD, decreased emotion recognition may be related to reduced focus on facial hallmarks. These findings suggest a valuable role for biometrics in social cognition assessment and the differentiation between bvFTD and PPD.
Pathways to improve nephrologist comfort in managing patients on in‐center or home self‐care dialysis
Authors: Huang Minghui , Vincent Johnson Anita , Pourafshar Negiin , Malhotra Rakesh , Yang Jason , Shah Monarch , Balogun Rasheed , Chopra Tushar
Published: May 2023

In end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD), patient engagement and empowerment are associated with improved survival and complications. However, patients lack education and confidence to participate in self‐care. The development of in center self‐care hemodialysis can enable motivated patients to allocate autonomy, increase satisfaction and engagement, reduce human resource intensiveness, and cultivate a curiosity about home dialysis. In this review, we emphasize the role of education to overcome barriers to home dialysis, strategies of improving home dialysis utilization in the COVID 19 era, the significance of in‐center self‐care dialysis (e.g., cost containment and empowering patients), and implementation of an in‐center self‐care dialysis as a bridge to home hemodialysis (HHD).
“The interviewer is a machine!” Investigating the effects of conventional and technology‐mediated interview methods on interviewee reactions and behavior
Authors: Kleinlogel Emmanuelle P. , Schmid Mast Marianne , Jayagopi Dinesh Babu , Shubham Kumar , Butera Anaïs
Published: May 2023

Despite the growing number of organizations interested in the use of asynchronous video interviews (AVIs), little is known about its impact on interviewee reactions and behavior. We randomly assigned participants (N = 299) from two different countries (Switzerland and India) to a face‐to‐face interview, an avatar‐based video interview (with an avatar as a virtual recruiter), or a text‐based video interview (with written questions) and collected data on a set of self‐rated and observer‐rated criteria. Overall, we found that whereas participants reported more negative reactions towards the two asynchronous interviews, observer ratings revealed similar performance across the three interviews and lower stress levels in the two AVIs. These findings suggest that despite technology‐mediated interview methods still not being well‐accepted, interviewees are not at a disadvantage when these methods are used in terms of how well interviewees perform and how stressed they appear to external observers. Implications are discussed.
Analyzing the network of parent‐rated ADHD symptoms before and 2 weeks after the onset of pharmaceutical treatment
Authors: Shabestari Payam Sadeghi , Zendehrouh Sareh , Ahmadi Atefeh , Jafari Sajad , Parvaresh Nooshin , Eslami Mahin
Published: May 2023

Problem

Via a network analysis approach, following 2 weeks of the medication Ritalin, the present study investigated the quality of symptom interactions and the pattern of behavior changes to identify locations of functional weaknesses in the network interactions of symptomology.

Methods

Ritalin® prescribed for 112 children (aged 4–14) with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as diagnosed by five child and adolescent psychiatrists. Their parents completed Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham‐IV questionnaire (SNAP‐IV) before and after Ritalin® onset as the pre and post‐test, respectively. Then, the network analysis approach was used to discover the pattern of changes in symptom interactions.

Findings

The results indicated that in 2 weeks following its initiation, Ritalin significantly reduced restlessness and interactions between symptoms of impulsivity. “Inability to follow instructions” and “difficulty waiting their turn” symptoms were the most central symptoms of strength. Three symptoms, “Often has difficulty waiting their turn,” “runs and climbs in situations where it is inappropriate” and “does not follow through on instructions,” had the most expected influence. In the 14‐day period of investigation, Ritalin® was effective in breaking some interactions and components of ADHD, but no significant mitigation of other components of the detected symptomatology network.

Conclusion

Follow‐up investigations using network analysis can clarify the dynamics of the network changes after initiation of medications.