bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary history is a powerful means to evince significant levels of plant services for humankind
Authors: Molina-Venegas Rafael , Rodriguez Miguel , Pardo-de-Santayana Manuel , Ronquillo Cristina , Mabberley David J. 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The divergent nature of evolution suggests that securing the human benefits that are directly provided by biodiversity may require counting on disparate lineages of the Tree of Life. However, quantitative evidence connecting evolutionary history to human well-being is still surprisingly tenuous. Here, we drew on a global review of plant-use records and the most comprehensive vascular plant phylogeny available demonstrating that, at any sample size, maximum levels of phylogenetic diversity captured significantly greater numbers of plant-use records than random selection, both globally and across the main continental regions of the world. Our study establishes an empirical foundation that links evolutionary history to human well-being, and it will serve as a discussion baseline to promote better-grounded accounts of the services that are directly provided by biodiversity.
Conversations Between Women with Vulval Lichen Sclerosus: A Thematic Analysis of Online Forums.
Authors: Bentham Gemma , Manley Kristyn , Halawa Shehrazad , Biddle Lucy 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background Vulval lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a common condition. Despite this, there is a paucity of research investigating the impact on women’s lives. Some women with VLS utilise online forums to discuss their priorities and concerns. This dialogue gives insight into the experiences of women living with VLS. Methods We identified the most popular public forums containing discussions between women with VLS. Inductive, thematic analysis was applied to 202 online posts spanning a six-year period. Results Five key themes were identified. Theme 1 pertained to difficulties with diagnosis. Women experience frequent delays and misdiagnosis. They report health care professionals (HCPs) with poor knowledge of their condition and some that were dismissive of their symptoms. Upon diagnosis women expressed relief and frustration. Theme 2 related to rationalisation and validation of their experience. Women expressed a desire to know why they were affected, what caused their symptoms and gain reassurance. Theme 3 dealt with women’s motivation to control their condition. Women want to know what triggers a flare-up so they can limit their relapses. They want to self-manage their condition and have an active role in partnership with HCPs. Theme 4 related to women sharing and seeking advice from the forums. The lived experiences of other women is valued by fellow sufferers. In particular, women are keen to try other treatments, conventional and alternative. The final theme related to the social repercussions of the condition. Sociocultural factors may prevent women from talking about their condition to friends, family and HCPs. They feel embarrassed by their symptoms. Some women reported relationship breakdown as a repercussion of the disease.Conclusions Improving the knowledge of HCPs with regards to VLS may reduce problems with diagnosis. In addition, delivering improved women’s health education in schools may reduce the taboo attached to women’s health. This may empower women to talk about their condition and seek help sooner. Once diagnosed, clinicians with the appropriate expertise should care for women with VLS. Women should be encouraged to take an active role in managing their condition in partnership with clinicians. Future research priorities include identifying the aetiology, triggers for flare-ups and novel therapies.
Analysis of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA Expression Pattern in Heart Tissue After Total Body Irradiation in a Mouse Model
Authors: Aryankalayil Molykutty J. , Martello Shannon , Bylicky Michelle , May Jared M. , Chopra Sunita , Shankardass Aman , MacMillan Laurel , Sun Landy , Sanjak Jaleal , Vanpouille-Box Claire , Eke Iris , Coleman C. Norman 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Radiation therapy is integral to effective thoracic cancer treatments, but its application is limited by sensitivity of critical organs such as the heart. The impacts of acute radiation-induced damage and its chronic effects on normal heart cells are highly relevant in radiotherapy with increasing lifespans of patients. Biomarkers for normal tissue damage after radiation exposure, whether accidental or therapeutic, are being studied as indicators of both acute and delayed effects. Recent research has highlighted the potential importance of RNAs, including messenger RNAs (mRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as biomarkers to assess radiation damage. Understanding changes in mRNA and non-coding RNA expression will elucidate biological pathway changes after radiation. Methods: To identify significant expression changes in mRNAs, lncRNAs, and miRNAs, we performed whole transcriptome microarray analysis of mouse heart tissue at 48h after whole-body irradiation with 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 Gray (Gy). We also validated changes in specific lncRNAs through RT-qPCR. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) was used to identify pathways associated with gene expression changes. Results: We observed sustained increases in lncRNAs and mRNAs, across all doses of radiation. Alas2, Aplnr, and Cxc3r1 were the most significantly downregulated mRNAs across all doses. Among the significantly upregulated mRNAs were cell-cycle arrest biomarkers Gdf15, Cdkn1a, and Ckap2. Additionally, IPA identified significant changes in gene expression relevant to senescence, apoptosis, hemoglobin synthesis, inflammation, and metabolism. LncRNAs Abhd11os, Pvt1, Trp53cor1, and Dino showed increased expression with increasing doses of radiation. We did not observe any miRNAs with sustained up- or downregulation across all doses, but miR-149-3p, miR-6538, miR-8101, miR-7118-5p, miR-211-3p, and miR-3960 were significantly upregulated after 12 Gy. Conclusions: Radiation-induced RNA expression changes may be predictive of normal tissue toxicities and may indicate targetable pathways for radiation countermeasure development and improved radiotherapy treatment plans.
A Novel Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ramulus Mori (Sangzhi) Alkaloids Ameliorate Glucose Metabolism Accompanied by the Modulation of Gut Microbiota and Ileal Inflammatory Damage in Type 2 Diabetic KKAy Mice
Authors: Liu Quan , Liu Shuainan , Cao Hui , Ji Wenming , Li Caina , Huan Yi , Lei Lei , Fu Yaxin , Liu Yuling , Shen Zhufang 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: The novel Traditional Chinese Medicine Ramulus Mori (Sangzhi) alkaloid tablets (SZ-A) are approved by The China National Medical Products Administration for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the extensive pharmacological characteristics and the underlying mechanism are unknown. This study investigated the mechanisms by which SZ-A ameliorates glucose metabolism in KKAy mice, an animal model of T2DM.Methods: Diabetic KKAy mice were treated intragastrically with SZ-A once daily for 8 weeks, after which glucose levels, lipid metabolism, gut microbiome, systemic inflammatory factors, luminal concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (fecal samples), and ileal proteomic changes were evaluated. The ileum tissues were collected, and the effects of SZ-A on pathological inflammatory damage were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. The mRNA and protein expression levels of various inflammatory markers, including monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa B p65, were detected in the ileum tissues. Results: SZ-A improved glucose metabolism with enhanced insulin response and elevated glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) during the glucose tolerance test in diabetic KKAy mice. Gut microbiota analysis demonstrated that SZ-A administration elevated the abundance of Bacteroidaceae and Verrucomicrobia, reduced the levels of Rikenellaceae and Desulfovibrionaceae; and increased the concentrations of fecal acetic and propionic acids compared to the diabetic model group. Additionally, SZ-A markedly improved ileal inflammatory injury and pro-inflammatory macrophage infiltration and improved intestinal mucosal barrier function in diabetic KKAy mice. SZ-A also attenuated the levels of circulating endotoxin, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and chemokines in the mice sera.Conclusions: SZ-A ameliorated the overall metabolic profile including glucose and lipid metabolism in KKAy mice, which may be associated with an improvement in GLP-1 and insulin secretion, at least in part by modulating the gut microbiome and relieving the degree of ileal and systemic inflammation.
Association Between Leaf Photosynthesis and Biomass Accumulation in Rice Illustrated by A Comprehensive Gas Exchange Profile Across the Growing Season
Authors: Honda Sotaro , Ohkubo Satoshi , San Nan , Nakkasame Anothai , Tomisawa Kazuki , Katsura Keisuke , Ookawa Taiichiro , Nagano Atsushi , Adachi Shunsuke 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Leaf photosynthetic rate changes across the growing season as crop plants age. Most studies of leaf photosynthesis focus on a specific growth stage, leaving the question of which pattern of photosynthetic dynamics maximizes crop productivity unanswered. Here we obtained high-frequency data of canopy leaf CO2 assimilation rate (A) of two elite rice (Oryza sativa) cultivars and 76 inbred lines across the whole growing season. The integrated A value after heading was closely associated with crop growth rate (CGR) from heading to harvest, but that before heading was not. A curve-smoothing analysis of A after heading showed that accumulated A at >80% of its maximum (A80) was closely correlated with CGR in analyses of all lines mixed and of lines grouped by genetic background, while the maximum A and accumulated A at ≤80% were less strongly correlated with CGR. We also found a genomic region that may enhance both A80 and aboveground biomass at harvest. We propose that maintaining a high A after heading, rather than having high maximum A, is a potential target for enhancing rice biomass accumulation.
Cytoplasmic String Between ICM and mTE Is a Positive Predictor of Clinical Pregnancy and Live Birth Outcomes in Elective Frozen-thawed Single Blastocyst Transfer Cycles: a Time-lapse Study
Authors: Ma Bing-Xin , Jin Lei , Huang Bo 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: In this study, we aim to investigate whether cytoplasmic string between inner cell mass (ICM) and mural trophectoderm (mTE) is a positive predictor of clinical pregnancy and live birth outcomes.Methods: 1,267 elective frozen-thawed single blastocyst transfer (eSBT) cycles cultured in time-lapse incubation system from January 2018 to May 2019 were involved in the study. Blastocysts were grouped according to the appearance of cytoplasmic strings between ICM and mTE cells, and identified as “Present” and “Absent” groups. In Present group, they were further categorized according to the quantity of cytoplasmic strings between ICM and mTE cells. Clinical pregnancy and live birth outcomes of blastocysts were used to evaluate the effect of cytoplasmic strings between ICM and mTE.Results: The baseline demographic and laboratory features were similar between the Present and Absent groups of cytoplasmic strings between ICM and mTE (P>0.05). According to the time-lapse analysis, cytoplasmic strings between ICM and mTE were more visible among good quality blastocysts. Furthermore, blastocysts with cytoplasmic strings showed a higher clinical pregnancy and live birth rates (P<0.05), and no significant differences were observed in abortion rate and birth weight (P>0.05).Conclusions: Although the previous conclusions of cytoplasmic strings were controversial, the present time-lapse analysis provides the evidence for the first time that cytoplasmic strings between ICM and mTE cells would be a positive predictor of clinical pregnancy and live birth outcomes in elective frozen-thawed single blastocyst transfer cycles.
Semi-extended Intramedullary Nailing of the Tibia Using an Infrapatellar Approach
Authors: Lu Ke , Gao Yi-jun , Wang Hong-zhen , Wu Zhi-qiang , Li Chong 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background The semi-extended tibial intramedullary nailing method would enable easier and improved reductions for tibial fractures as well as facilitate fluoroscopic imaging; however, its in-articular nature remains controversial. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and functional outcomes of the semi-extended infrapatellar (SEIP) approach and hyper-flexed infrapatellar (HFIP) approach for intramedullary nailing to treat tibial shaft fractures.MethodsThis study involved the retrospective analysis of the medical records of patients with tibial shaft fractures that were fixed through either the SEIP approach or the HFIP approach of intramedullary nailing and who were admitted to a level 1 trauma center. The minimum patient follow-up period was 12 months and the clinical and functional outcomes were estimated at the 12-month visit. ResultsOf the 80 patients whose medical records were analyzed, 40 (50%) underwent SEIP nailing and the remaining 40 (50%) underwent the traditional HFIP nailing. Compared with the HFIP group, patients in the SEIP group had a higher Lysholm knee score (median, 92 [interquartile range, 88-95] vs median, 88 [interquartile range, 81-92]; p = .01), a shorter intraoperative fluoroscopy time (median, 93 [interquartile range, 78-105] s, vs median, 136 [interquartile range, 110-157] s; p < .001), and operation time (mean, 88.1 [SD, 17.8] min vs mean, 98.7 [SD, 19.3] min; p = .01). The VAS score was significantly lower in the SEIP group (median, 0; interquartile range, 0-0) than in the HFIP group (median, 0; interquartile range, 0-2) (p = .03). There were two cases (5%) in the SEIP group and 10 cases (25%) in the HFIP group of moderate AKP (p = .03). Meanwhile, there was no significant difference in malalignment, nonunion, delayed union, infection, and other complications, as well as SF-36 physical and mental scores.ConclusionWe found that the SEIP approach to tibia intramedullary nailing was superior to the HFIP approach based on the intraoperative and postoperative outcomes. Thus, this novel technique provides an infrapatellar option for semi-extended tibial nailing.
Melatonin-induced Cell Rejuvenation from Long-term Ex-vivo passaging Functioned by its Restoration of Damaged Cell Autophagic Processes
Authors: Tan Yi-Zhou , Xu Xin-Yue , Dai Ji-Min , Yin Yuan , He Xiao-Tao , Zhang Yi-Lin , Zhu Tian-Xiao , An Ying , Tian Bei-Min , Chen Fa-Ming 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: Stem cells undergone long-term ex-vivo expansion are most likely functionally compromised (namely cellular senescence) in terms of their stem cell properties and therapeutic potentials. Due to the ability to attenuate cellular senescence, melatonin (MLT) has been proposed as an adjuvant across long-term cell expansion protocols, but the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. Methods: Human periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) were isolated and cultured ex-vivo for 15 passages, and passage 2, 7 and 15 cells were used to interrogate the cellular senescence and alteration in cell autophagy during long-term expansion. The cellular senescence features were evidenced by senescence-associated β-galacotosidase (SA-β-gal) activity and the expression of senescence-related proteins including p53, p21, p16 and γ-H2AX. Electronic microscope was used to observe the autophagic vesicles. Adenovirus mRFP-GFP-LC3 was transfected to indicate the alteration of autophagic flux during long-term expansion, and the autophagy-associated proteins Atg7, Beclin-1, LC3-II and p62 were evaluated by Western blot. Results: It was found that long-term in-vitro passaging led to an accumulated SA-β-gal, elevated expressions of p53, p21, p16 and γ-H2AX, along with downregulated autophagy-associated proteins Atg7, Beclin-1 and LC3 as well as a mounting autophagy substrate p62. In accordance with expectation, supplemented with MLT not only ameliorated cells to a younger state but also restored the impaired autophagy level in senescent cells. Additionally, we demonstrated that autophagy inhibitor could block such MLT-induced cell rejuvenation. When the underlying signaling pathways involved was interrogated, we found that MLT receptor (MT) participated in mediating MLT-related autophagy restoration by regulating PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.Conclusions: The present study suggests that MLT may rejuvenate long-term expansion-caused cellular senescence by restoring autophagy, more likely via PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in an MT-dependent manner. This is the first report identifying the MT-dependent PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling involved in MLT-induced autophagy alteration, pointing to a potential target for using autophagy-restoring agents such as MLT to develop optimized clinical-scale cell production protocols.
Immunoglobulin E Levels and Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Kyozuka Hyo , Murata Tuyoshi , Fukuda Toma , Endo Yuta , Yamaguchi Akiko , Yasuda Shun , Kanno Aya , Sato Akiko , Ogata Yuka , Hosoya Mitsuaki , Yasumura Seiji , Hashimoto Koichi , Nishigori Hidekazu , Fujimori Keiya 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
High serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels are associated with cardiovascular events. We aimed to evaluate the association between total IgE levels during the first trimester of pregnancy and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) development in a large Japanese cohort. We analysed data pertaining to singleton primipara pregnancies recorded in the Japan Environment and Children’s Study involving births in 2011–2014. First trimester’s serum IgE levels were determined using the immunonephelometric technique. High serum IgE was defined as IgE levels ≥170 IU/ml. A multiple logistic regression model was used to estimate the risk of high serum IgE levels on HDP, comprising early-onset and late-onset hypertension. A total of 32,518 participants were enrolled. The prevalence of total, early-onset, and late-onset HDP was 3.2%, 0.6%, and 2.3%, respectively. Patients with high serum IgE levels had an increased risk of late-onset hypertension (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.19, 95% confidence interval: 1.01–1.40). No correlation was found with either HDP (total) or early-onset hypertension (aOR: 1.15 and 0.85, 95% confidence interval: 0.99–1.32 and 0.60–1.21, respectively). High serum IgE levels during the first trimester are associated with late-onset hypertension. Our results could influence and shape further research regarding the pathogenesis of late-onset hypertension.
Fragmentation in the Future of Work: A Horizon Scan Examining the Impact of the Changing Nature of Work on Vulnerable Workers
Authors: Jetha Arif , Shamaee Ali , Bonaccio Silvia , Gignac Monique AM. , Tucker Lori , Tompa Emile , Bültmann Ute , Norman Cameron , Banks Cristina G. , Smith Peter 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background. The future of work is characterized by social, technological, economic, environmental and political changes that are expected to disrupt all aspects of the working world. Our study aims to understand how the future of work impacts vulnerable workers. Methods. We conducted a horizon scan to systematically identify and synthesize diverse sources of evidence including academic research, gray literature and social media. Search terms were generated by members of the multidisciplinary research team, and combined with work outcome, future- and change-related and vulnerable worker search terms. Six search portals were used to uncover peer reviewed and gray literature across diverse disciplines. Search terms were also entered into Twitter’s standard search interface to identify social media resources. Literature was screened for eligibility (i.e., English language, documented a change in the nature of work, industrialized context and description of impact to vulnerable workers). Each relevant article was synthesized, and trend categories were developed by through iterative discussions among the research team. Results. An initial search yielded 4,800 articles after removing duplicates. Following a title and abstract relevancy screen, 3,195 articles were excluded. A total of 342 articles were fully reviewed. A synthesis of articles found nine trend categories which included digital transformation of the economy, artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML)-enhanced automation, AI-enabled human resource management systems, skill requirements for the future of work; globalization 2.0, climate change and the green economy, Gen Zs and the work environment; populism and the future of work, and external shocks to accelerate the changing nature of work (The COVID-19 example). Some workers may be more likely to experience vulnerability in the future of work including greater exposure to job displacement or wage depression. However, some potentially positive future of work trends also existed and could be beneficial for the labor market engagement of certain groups. Discussion. The changing nature of work can be fragmented for different groups of workers. Our research offers an important step towards understanding and supporting the involvement of vulnerable workers in the future of work.
Public Attitudes to, and Behaviours Taken During, Hot Weather by Vulnerable Groups: Results from a National Survey in England
Authors: Erens Bob , Williams Lorraine , Exley Josephine , Ettelt Stephanie , Manacorda Tommaso , Hajat Shakoor , Mays Nicholas 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background Hot weather leads to increased illness and deaths. The Heatwave Plan for England (HWP) aims to protect the population by raising awareness of the dangers of hot weather, especially for those most vulnerable. Individuals at increased risk to the effects of heat include older adults, particularly 75+, and those with specific chronic conditions, such as diabetes, respiratory and heart conditions. The HWP recommends specific protective actions which relate to five heat-health alert levels (levels 0-4), with levels 3 and 4 triggered when specific temperature thresholds are reached. However, most adults in England do not consider themselves at risk of hot weather and do not necessarily take protective measures. Methods As part of a wider evaluation of the implementation and effects of the HWP, a survey (n=3153) and focus groups were carried out after the June 2017 level 3 heat-health alert. Survey respondents were categorised into three groups based on their age and health status: ‘vulnerable’, ‘potentially vulnerable’ and ‘not vulnerable’ to hot weather. Multivariable logistic regression models identified factors associated with these groups taking protective measures. Four focus groups were carried out in three geographical areas; their findings help explain the survey results for the vulnerable group. Results Most vulnerable and potentially vulnerable adults do not consider themselves at risk of hot weather and are unaware of the effectiveness of important protective behaviours. Only one-quarter of (potentially) vulnerable adults reported changing their behaviour as a result of hearing hot weather-related health advice during the level 3 alert period. Focus group findings showed many vulnerable adults were more concerned about the effects of the sun’s ultra-violet radiation on the skin than on the effects of hot temperatures on health.ConclusionsCurrent public health messages appear to be insufficient, given the low level of (potentially) vulnerable adults changing their behaviour during hot weather. In the context of increasingly warmer summers in England due to climate change, public health messaging needs to convince (potentially) vulnerable adults of all the risks of hot weather (not just effects of sunlight on the skin) and of the effectiveness of heat protective measures.