bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Stacking for future: Pyramiding genes to improve drought and salinity tolerance in rice
Authors: Shailani Anjali , Joshi Rohit , Singla‐Pareek Sneh Lata , Pareek Ashwani 
Published: November 2020

AbstractAbiotic stresses, such as drought and salinity, adversely affect rice production and cause a severe threat to food security. Conventional crop breeding techniques alone are inadequate for achieving drought stress tolerance in crop plants. Using transgenic technology, incremental improvements in tolerance to drought and salinity have been successfully attained via manipulation of gene(s) in several crop species. However, achieving the goal via pyramiding multiple genes from the same or different tolerance mechanisms has received little attention. Pyramiding of multiple genes can be achieved either through breeding, by using marker‐assisted selection, or by genetic engineering through molecular stacking co‐transformation or re‐transformation. Transgene stacking into a single locus has added advantages over breeding or re‐transformation since the former assures co‐inheritance of genes, contributing to more effective tolerance in transgenic plants for generations. Drought, being a polygenic trait, the potential candidate genes for gene stacking are those contributing to cellular detoxification, osmolyte accumulation, antioxidant machinery, and signaling pathways. Since cellular dehydration is inbuilt in salinity stress, manipulation of these genes results in improving tolerance to salinity along with drought in most of the cases. In this review, attempts have been made to provide a critical assessment of transgenic plants developed through transgene stacking and approaches to achieve the same. Identification and functional validation of more such candidate genes is needed for research programs targeting the gene stacking for developing crop plants with high precision in the shortest possible time to ensure sustainable crop productivity under marginal lands.
Characterization of semen collected by pharmacologically induced ejaculation from a stallion with seminal vesiculitis
Authors: Cavalero Thaís Mendes Sanches , Segabinazzi Lorenzo Garrido Teixeira M. , Scheeren Verônica Flores da Cunha , Freitas‐Dell'Aqua Camila P. , Papa Frederico Ozanam 
Published: November 2020

AbstractThe present study compared the quality of sperm collected by artificial vagina or pharmacologically induced ejaculation from a 10‐year‐old thoroughbred stallion with seminal vesiculitis. The pharmacological protocol involved intravenous administration of detomidine (0.01 mg/kg) and oxytocin (20 IU) and successfully induced ejaculation in all attempts of semen collection. Sperm motility, plasma membrane and acrosome integrity (PMAI), reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) percentage, and bacterial profiles of fresh and cooled semen (5°C for 24 hr) were evaluated. Semen obtained by the pharmacological method presented reduced seminal volume, decreased PMN percentage and superior sperm motility in cooled samples. Moreover, higher PMAI and lower ROS levels were observed in semen collected by the pharmacological method. Therefore, pharmacologically induced ejaculation is an alternative to obtain semen with minimal contamination and with sperm of superior quality and longevity from stallions with seminal vesiculitis.
Successful hair removal on intraoral grafts using the diode laser: Report of two cases
Authors: Rodrigues Bruno Teixeira Gonçalves , Nunes Lucas Alberto dos Santos , Amaral Layla dos Reis , Siqueira Débora Aparecida Vianna , Pêssoa Thiago Moreira , Ramos Ruth Tramontani , Cantisano Marília Heffer , Silva‐Junior Geraldo Oliveira 
Published: November 2020

AbstractAim: The aim of this study was to describe the successful epilation of intraoral grafts using the diode laser system.Methods and Results: Two male patients at a 12‐month follow‐up – who underwent radical resection of oral cancer located in the mouth floor and tongue followed by reconstruction with cutaneous flap – showed hypertrichosis in the graft region, leading to dysphagia and dysphonia. The diode (980 nm) laser was performed for both cases in order to remove the ectopic hair. Excellent aesthetic and functional outcomes with total hair removal and alteration of the tissue surface were achieved.Conclusions: There is no currently standard protocol for the laser epilation use on hairy grafts because each graft required a different number of sessions for total epilation. The diode laser system appears to be a successful therapeutic option for patients suffering from hypertrichrosis in the oral cavity.
Tactical behavior of high‐level male marathon runners
Authors: García‐Manso Juan Manuel , Martínez‐Patiño Maria José , de la Paz Arencibia Lázaro , Valverde‐Esteve Teresa 
Published: November 2020

This study analyzes the strategy used by the best male runners who participated in one of the major city marathons (Frankfurt Marathon, 2008‐2018), the all‐time performances <2:04:00, the male world records achieved during the 21st century and the Nike Breaking2 Project and INEOS 1:59 Challenge (total = 235 races). The races of the best runners in the Frankfurt Marathon (top 10) were analyzed (n = 110 runners, range: 2:03:42‐2:14:05 hours); the runners were divided into two groups according to the tactical used. The pace of Group A (stable pace) remained steady throughout the race, while in Group B (decrease in running speed toward the end of the race) a moderate, but significant drop in speed was detected (P ≤ .001), starting from halfway through the race and getting sharper from the 30th kilometer (30‐35 km = 1.6%, P ≤ .001 – 35‐40 km = 4.3%, P ≤ .001 – 40‐42.195 km: 3.9%, P ≤ .001, total = ≈10%). In the races in which the world record is achieved, the running speed tends to be steady and relatively conservative during the first stretch of the race, increasing smoothly in the second half and achieving a significant increase in the last 2195 m of the race (P = .016, ES = 1.14). Among all the possible strategies, running at a steady pace throughout the race seems the most effective option, especially when priority is given to time rather than position (ie, world records and best all‐time races).
PKCε stimulation of TRPV1 orchestrates carotid body responses to asthmakines
Authors: Jendzjowsky Nicholas G. , Roy Arijit , Iftinca Mircea , Barioni Nicole O. , Kelly Margaret M. , Herrington Brittney A. , Visser Frank , Altier Christophe , Wilson Richard J.A. 
Published: November 2020

Key points
We have previously shown that carotid body stimulation by lysophosphatidic acid elicits a reflex stimulation of vagal efferent activity sufficient to cause bronchoconstriction in asthmatic rats.
Here, we show that pathophysiological concentrations of asthma‐associated prototypical Th2 cytokines also stimulate the carotid bodies.
Stimulation of the carotid bodies by these asthmakines involves a PKCε–transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) signalling mechanism likely dependent on TRPV1 S502 and T704 phosphorylation sites.
As the carotid bodies’ oxygen sensitivity is independent of PKCε–TRPV1 signalling, systemic blockade of PKCε may provide a novel therapeutic target to reduce allergen‐induced asthmatic bronchoconstriction.
Consistent with the therapeutic potential of blocking the PKCε–TRPV1 pathway, systemic delivery of a PKCε‐blocking peptide suppresses asthmatic respiratory distress in response to allergen and reduces airway hyperresponsiveness to bradykinin.
AbstractThe autonomic nervous system orchestrates organ‐specific, systemic and behavioural responses to inflammation. Recently, we demonstrated a vital role for lysophosphatidic acid in stimulating the primary autonomic oxygen chemoreceptors, the carotid bodies, in parasympathetic‐mediated asthmatic airway hyperresponsiveness. However, the cacophony of stimulatory factors and cellular mechanisms of carotid body activation are unknown. Therefore, we set out to determine the intracellular signalling involved in carotid body‐mediated sensing of asthmatic blood‐borne inflammatory mediators. We employed a range of in vitro and rat in situ preparations, site‐directed mutagenesis, patch‐clamp, nerve recordings and pharmacological inhibition to assess cellular signalling. We show that the carotid bodies are also sensitive to asthma‐associated prototypical Th2 cytokines which elicit sensory nerve excitation. This provides additional asthmatic ligands contributing to the previously established reflex arc resulting in efferent vagal activity and asthmatic bronchoconstriction. This novel sensing role for the carotid body is mediated by a PKCε‐dependent stimulation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), likely via TRPV1 phosphorylation at sites T704 and S502. Importantly, carotid body oxygen sensing was unaffected by blocking either PKCε or TRPV1. Further, we demonstrate that systemic PKCε blockade reduces asthmatic respiratory distress in response to allergen and airway hyperresponsiveness. These discoveries support an inflammation‐dependent, oxygen‐independent function for the carotid body and suggest that targeting PKCε provides a novel therapeutic option to abate allergic airway disease without altering life‐saving autonomic hypoxic reflexes.
Effect of Die Clearance on Peak Punching Force During Cryogenic Micropunching of Polycaprolactone
Authors: Sagar Amrit , Nehme Christopher , Saigal Anil , James Thomas P. 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Microscale holes were punched at cryogenic conditions in polycaprolactone (PCL) membranes to create synthetic three-dimensional (3D) tissue scaffolds through multilayer stacking of two-dimensional (2D) porous membranes. Punching forces were experimentally measured, and finite element modeling of the punching process was validated by comparing punching force results. Holes of nominal diameter of 200 μm were punched in PCL films of two different thicknesses: 40 μm and 70 μm. Die clearances used for holes in 40 μm thick films were 15.0%, 30.0%, and 45.0%. Die clearances used for holes in 70 μm films were 8.6%, 17.1%, and 25.7%. All holes were punched while the PCL film was in thermal equilibrium with a bath of boiling liquid nitrogen. Punching forces were analyzed to study the effect of die clearance and film thickness. A 3D finite element simulation of the punching process was done using deform 3d software. Cryogenic material properties of PCL used in the simulation were determined experimentally. It was concluded that finite element simulation for the cryogenic micropunching process can be used to predict peak punching forces with reasonable accuracy, which is a key factor to be considered while designing the punching dies. The finite element simulations did not predict an optimal die clearance to minimize peak punching force. However, the measured peak punching forces for 70 μm thick film seem to favor the smallest die clearance to minimize peak punching force.
Overview of retrospective data harmonisation in the MINDMAP project: process and results
Authors: Wey Tina W , Doiron Dany , Wissa Rita , Fabre Guillaume , Motoc Irina , Noordzij J Mark , Ruiz Milagros , Timmermans Erik , van Lenthe Frank J , Bobak Martin , Chaix Basile , Krokstad Steinar , Raina Parminder , Sund Erik Reidar , Beenackers Marielle A , Fortier Isabel 
Published: November 2020

BackgroundThe MINDMAP project implemented a multinational data infrastructure to investigate the direct and interactive effects of urban environments and individual determinants of mental well-being and cognitive function in ageing populations. Using a rigorous process involving multiple teams of experts, longitudinal data from six cohort studies were harmonised to serve MINDMAP objectives. This article documents the retrospective data harmonisation process achieved based on the Maelstrom Research approach and provides a descriptive analysis of the harmonised data generated.MethodsA list of core variables (the DataSchema) to be generated across cohorts was first defined, and the potential for cohort-specific data sets to generate the DataSchema variables was assessed. Where relevant, algorithms were developed to process cohort-specific data into DataSchema format, and information to be provided to data users was documented. Procedures and harmonisation decisions were thoroughly documented.ResultsThe MINDMAP DataSchema (v2.0, April 2020) comprised a total of 2841 variables (993 on individual determinants and outcomes, 1848 on environmental exposures) distributed across up to seven data collection events. The harmonised data set included 220 621 participants from six cohorts (10 subpopulations). Harmonisation potential, participant distributions and missing values varied across data sets and variable domains.ConclusionThe MINDMAP project implemented a collaborative and transparent process to generate a rich integrated data set for research in ageing, mental well-being and the urban environment. The harmonised data set supports a range of research activities and will continue to be updated to serve ongoing and future MINDMAP research needs.
Complex regional pain syndrome: an evolving perspective
Authors: Cutts Steven , Gangoo Shafat , Srinivasan Sriram Harish , Modi Nitin , Pasapula Chandra , Power Dominic 
Published: November 2020

ABSTRACTBackgroundComplex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a heterogenous and poorly understood condition that can be provoked by quite minor injuries. The symptoms and signs of CRPS persist, long after the patient has recovered from the inciting event. In some cases, there is a clear association with a peripheral nerve injury. The degree of disability produced by CRPS is often out of proportion to the scale of the original insult and the condition is associated with protracted recovery times and frequent litigation.MethodsWe have performed a PubMed literature search, referenced landmark papers in the field and included a national expert in peripheral nerve injury and repair in our team of authors.Results and ConclusionsThe diagnostic criteria for CRPS have changed repeatedly over the last two centuries and much of the historical literature is difficult to compare with more recent research. In this review article, we consider how our understanding of the condition has evolved and discuss its pathogenesis, its apparent heterogenicity and the various investigations and treatments available to the clinician.
Postgraduate medical education quality metrics panels can be enhanced by including learner outcomes
Authors: Pinnell Jonathan , Tranter Andrew , Cooper Sarah , Whallett Andrew 
Published: November 2020

ABSTRACTPostgraduate medical education (PME) quality assurance at Health Education England (HEE) currently relies upon survey data. As no one metric can reflect all aspects of training, and each has its limitations, additional metrics should be explored. At HEE (West Midlands), we explored the use of learner outcomes, speciality examination pass rates and Annual Review of Competence Progression (ARCP) outcomes, as quality metrics. Feedback received from our local Quality Forum of 40 senior educators frames the discussion through this paper. Overall, learner outcomes are useful quality metrics that add to survey data to provide a more comprehensive picture of PME quality. However, the utility of ARCP outcomes as quality metrics is currently limited by concerns regarding variations in ARCP practice between regions. To address these concerns, ARCPs need the same processes, rigour, scrutiny and investment as other high-stakes assessments. This will improve the reliability and validity of the ARCP as an assessment and improve the usefulness of ARCP outcomes as quality metrics. Research is required to determine the optimal combination of metrics to use in PME quality assurance and to appraise the validity and reliability of the ARCP as an assessment.
COVID-19 associated variations in liver function parameters: a retrospective study
Authors: Saini Ram Krishan , Saini Neha , Ram Sant , Soni Shiv Lal , Suri Vikas , Malhotra Pankaj , Kaur Jyotdeep , Verma Indu , Sharma Sadhna , Zohmangaihi Deepy 
Published: November 2020

AbstractBackgroundCharacteristics of laboratory findings of COVID-19 patients are of great significance for diagnosis and treatment. Studies that have analysed the variations in hepatic profile in correlation with the inflammatory markers in SARS-CoV-2 are limited.MethodsWe retrospectively analysed liver function tests and inflammatory markers of 170 admitted patients with confirmed COVID-19 in the tertiary care centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), India, using Roche Cobas Autoanalyzer.ResultsNumber of patients with normal liver enzyme levels were 63 (41.5%), while with raised levels of any of the liver enzymes were 89 (58.5%), out of which 43 (48.31%) had liver injury which manifested as increased severity in terms of intensive care unit (ICU) requirement (p=0.0005). Significantly raised levels of liver enzymes and liver injury were observed with age (p&lt;0.0001) and in males (p=0.004). Significantly decreased levels of albumin and total proteins and increased levels of total bilirubin (p&lt;0.0001) were seen in patients with abnormal liver enzyme levels and liver injury as compared to patients with normal levels. Significant increase in the levels of alanine transaminase and gamma-glutamyl transferase was seen on the 7th day, CRP and ferritin (p&lt;0.0001) peaks were observed on 2nd and 3rd day respectively. A significant positive correlation was found between the levels of these inflammatory markers and liver function parameters.ConclusionsMore than half of patients admitted to the hospital with SARS-CoV-2 infection had an abnormal liver function which was found to be associated with raised levels of inflammatory markers. Significantly higher proportions of patients with abnormal liver function were elderly and males and were at higher risk of progressing to severe disease.
Short term, high-dose vitamin D supplementation for COVID-19 disease: a randomised, placebo-controlled, study (SHADE study)
Authors: Rastogi Ashu , Bhansali Anil , Khare Niranjan , Suri Vikas , Yaddanapudi Narayana , Sachdeva Naresh , Puri G D , Malhotra Pankaj 
Published: November 2020

AbstractBackgroundVitamin D has an immunomodulatory role but the effect of therapeutic vitamin D supplementation in SARS-CoV-2 infection is not known.AimEffect of high dose, oral cholecalciferol supplementation on SARS-CoV-2 viral clearance.DesignRandomised, placebo-controlled.ParticipantsAsymptomatic or mildly symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 RNA positive vitamin D deficient (25(OH)D&lt;20 ng/ml) individuals.InterventionParticipants were randomised to receive daily 60 000 IU of cholecalciferol (oral nano-liquid droplets) for 7 days with therapeutic target 25(OH)D&gt;50 ng/ml (intervention group) or placebo (control group). Patients requiring invasive ventilation or with significant comorbidities were excluded. 25(OH)D levels were assessed at day 7, and cholecalciferol supplementation was continued for those with 25(OH)D &lt;50 ng/ml in the intervention arm. SARS-CoV-2 RNA and inflammatory markers fibrinogen, D-dimer, procalcitonin and (CRP), ferritin were measured periodically.Outcome measureProportion of patients with SARS-CoV-2 RNA negative before day-21 and change in inflammatory markers.ResultsForty SARS-CoV-2 RNA positive individuals were randomised to intervention (n=16) or control (n=24) group. Baseline serum 25(OH)D was 8.6 (7.1 to 13.1) and 9.54 (8.1 to 12.5) ng/ml (p=0.730), in the intervention and control group, respectively. 10 out of 16 patients could achieve 25(OH)D&gt;50 ng/ml by day-7 and another two by day-14 [day-14 25(OH)D levels 51.7 (48.9 to 59.5) ng/ml and 15.2 (12.7 to 19.5) ng/ml (p&lt;0.001) in intervention and control group, respectively]. 10 (62.5%) participants in the intervention group and 5 (20.8%) participants in the control arm (p&lt;0.018) became SARS-CoV-2 RNA negative. Fibrinogen levels significantly decreased with cholecalciferol supplementation (intergroup difference 0.70 ng/ml; P=0.007) unlike other inflammatory biomarkers.ConclusionGreater proportion of vitamin D-deficient individuals with SARS-CoV-2 infection turned SARS-CoV-2 RNA negative with a significant decrease in fibrinogen on high-dose cholecalciferol supplementation.Trial register numberNCT04459247.
Detection of Chlamydiaceae in Swiss wild birds sampled at a bird rehabilitation centre
Authors: Stalder Sandro , Marti Hanna , Borel Nicole , Mattmann Prisca , Vogler Barbara , Wolfrum Nina , Albini Sarah 
Published: November 2020

BackgroundAnnually, 800–1500 wild birds are admitted to the rehabilitation centre of the Swiss Ornithological Institute, Sempach, Lucerne, Switzerland. The workers of the centre come in close contact with the avian patients and might therefore be exposed to zoonotic agents shed by these birds, such as Chlamydia psittaci.MethodsIn the present study, 91 choanal, 91 cloacal and 267 faecal swabs from 339 wild birds of 42 species were investigated using a stepwise diagnostic approach.ResultsChlamydiaceae were detected in 0.9 per cent (0.3–2.6 per cent) of birds (n=3), all of them members of the Columbidae family. The Chlamydiaceae species of two of these birds (one Eurasian collared dove, one fancy pigeon) were identified as C psittaci types B and E by PCR and outer membrane protein A genotyping.ConclusionThe findings of the current study suggest that zoonotic transmission of Chlamydiaceae is very unlikely for songbird and waterfowl species tested herein, while pigeons might pose a risk to workers at rehabilitation centres.
Abstract 12815: Lambda-like St-segment Elevation in Acute Myocardial Infarction: May be a New Risk Predictor for Lethal Ventricular Arrhythmia
Authors: Kim Heng shee , Mahadevan Gurudevan , Lee Chuey Yan , Lu Hou Tee 
Published: November 2020

Introduction:
Ventricular arrhythmia (VA) is the frequent most cause of SCD in AMI patients. Among, early VT and VF are associated with high in-hospital mortality. Certain ECG changes during AMI was reported to be associated with lethal VA. We described a case of lethal VA in AMI patient with a specific ECG sign - the Lambda ST elevation.

Case Description:
A 49 year old diabetic and hypertensive man presented with worse ever angina. Examination showed bilateral lung crepitation. ECG revealed wide spread Lambda shaped ST elevation over anteroinferior lead with reciprocal changes. He was treated as anteroinferior STEMI and planned for PPCI. During preparation, he developed VF and resuscitated with CPR and defibrillations. He was then intubated and BP supported with inotropes.

Coronary angiogram showed acute total occlusion of RCA and LAD. We decided PCI to both vessels. Multiple white thrombus aspirated from RCA and successfully established TIMI II flow. Just before deployment of the stent, he developed VF again and resuscitated. RCA was stented after ROSC.
Similarly, multiple red and white thrombus aspirated from LAD. After balloon dilatation, TIMI II flow re-established with no obvious lesion. Unfortunately, he developed VF storm in between and succumbed despite one hour of resuscitation effort with acceptable angiographic results.

Discussion:
The presence of elevated J-wave followed by a steep downsloping elevated ST segment that merges with the inverted T wave, forming a Lambda or shark fin shape, was reported to be associated with fatal VA, cardiogenic shock and in-hospital mortality. It is closely related to early abnormal ventricular repolarization, which involves acute myocardial ischemia and genetic abnormality.

Conclusion:
This case demonstrated that the presence of Lambda-like ST elevation in AMI may be a risk predictor for lethal VA and cardiogenic shock. Early recognition of this high risk group and prompt aggressive treatment strategies can be lifesaving.