bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Approximate Bayesian Computation applied to time series of population genetic data disentangles rapid genetic changes and demographic variations in a pathogen population
Authors: Saubin Méline , Tellier Aurélien , Stoeckel Solenn , Andrieux Axelle , Halkett Fabien 
Published: May 2023

AbstractAdaptation can occur at remarkably short timescales in natural populations, leading to drastic changes in phenotypes and genotype frequencies over a few generations only. The inference of demographic parameters can allow understanding how evolutionary forces interact and shape the genetic trajectories of populations during rapid adaptation. Here we propose a new Approximate Bayesian Computation (ABC) framework that couples a forward and individual‐based model with temporal genetic data to disentangle genetic changes and demographic variations in a case of rapid adaptation. We test the accuracy of our inferential framework and evaluate the benefit of considering a dense versus sparse sampling. Theoretical investigations demonstrate high accuracy in both model and parameter estimations, even if a strong thinning is applied to time series data. Then, we apply our ABC inferential framework to empirical data describing the population genetic changes of the poplar rust pathogen following a major event of resistance overcoming. We successfully estimate key demographic and genetic parameters, including the proportion of resistant hosts deployed in the landscape and the level of standing genetic variation from which selection occurred. Inferred values are in accordance with our empirical knowledge of this biological system. This new inferential framework, which contrasts with coalescent‐based ABC analyses, is promising for a better understanding of evolutionary trajectories of populations subjected to rapid adaptation.
Developmental stress does not induce genome‐wide DNA methylation changes in wild great tit (Parus major) nestlings
Authors: Sepers Bernice , Mateman A. Christa , Gawehns Fleur , Verhoeven Koen J. F. , van Oers Kees 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThe environment experienced during early life is a crucial factor in the life of many organisms. This early life environment has been shown to have profound effects on morphology, physiology and fitness. However, the molecular mechanisms that mediate these effects are largely unknown, even though they are essential for our understanding of the processes that induce phenotypic variation in natural populations. DNA methylation is an epigenetic mechanism that has been suggested to explain such environmentally induced phenotypic changes early in life. To investigate whether DNA methylation changes are associated with experimentally induced early developmental effects, we cross‐fostered great tit (Parus major) nestlings and manipulated their brood sizes in a natural study population. We assessed experimental brood size effects on pre‐fledging biometry and behaviour. We linked this to genome‐wide DNA methylation levels of CpG sites in erythrocyte DNA, using 122 individuals and an improved epiGBS2 laboratory protocol. Brood enlargement caused developmental stress and negatively affected nestling condition, predominantly during the second half of the breeding season, when conditions are harsher. Brood enlargement, however, affected nestling DNA methylation in only one CpG site and only if the hatch date was taken into account. In conclusion, this study shows that nutritional stress in enlarged broods does not associate with direct effects on genome‐wide DNA methylation. Future studies should assess whether genome‐wide DNA methylation variation may arise later in life as a consequence of phenotypic changes during early development.
Relatives' experiences of the transition from intensive care to home for acutely admitted intensive care patients—A qualitative study
Authors: Meiring‐Noordstra Aaltje , van der Meulen Ingeborg C. , Onrust Marisa , Hafsteinsdóttir Thóra B. , Luttik Marie Louise 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundAcute admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) can negatively affect quality of life for patients and their relatives. Relatives play an important caregiving role after the patient's admission. More knowledge and understanding of their needs are necessary as the patient transitions home.AimThis study aims to explore relatives' experiences of acutely admitted ICU patients' transition from the ICU to a general ward and then home.Study designA qualitative study with a phenomenological approach was conducted. Interviews were in‐depth and featured open‐ended questions. The interviews took place after the patients transitioned from ICU to home and were conducted online by videoconference. Data were analysed using Colaizzi's seven‐step method.ResultsTwelve relatives of acutely admitted ICU patients were interviewed.Five main themes emerged: (1) mixed feelings, (2) sense of not being involved, (3) limited information provision, (4) lack of acknowledgement as a caregiver, and (5) an uncertain future perspective. Relatives experience major uncertainties during transitions and prefer to be actively involved in care and care decisions.ConclusionsThis study indicates that relatives of ICU patients experience a lack of guidance during the transitions from the ICU to a general ward and to home, or a follow‐up facility.More focus is needed on the themes of mixed feelings, the sense of not being involved, limited information provision, lack of acknowledgement as a caregiver, and an uncertain future perspective. This increased focus might improve the guidance during these transitions.Relevance to clinical practiceThe insights from this study may help to improve the care of patients and their relatives during the transitions.
Targeting TGF beta receptor 1 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Jank Bernhard J. , Schnoell Julia , Kladnik Katharina , Sparr Carmen , Haas Markus , Gurnhofer Elisabeth , Lein Alexander L. , Brunner Markus , Kenner Lukas , Kadletz‐Wanke Lorenz , Heiduschka Gregor 
Published: May 2023

AbstractObjectivesThe transforming growth factor‐Beta (TGF‐ß) pathway may be involved in the radioresistance of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). This study analyzed TGF‐ß receptor 1 (TGFBR1) expression in HNSCC patients and evaluated the antineoplastic and radiosensitizing effects of vactosertib, a novel TGFBR1 inhibitor, in vitro.Materials and MethodsTGFBR1 expression was examined in HNSCC patients at the mRNA level in silico and the protein level by immunohistochemistry, including surgical specimens of primary tumors, matched lymph node metastasis, and recurrent disease. Furthermore, a novel small molecule TGFBR1 inhibitor was evaluated in HNSCC cell lines. Finally, an indirect coculture model using patient‐derived cancer‐associated fibroblasts was applied to mimic the tumor microenvironment.ResultsPatients with high TGFBR1 mRNA levels showed significantly worse overall survival in silico (OS, p = 0.024). At the protein level, an association between TGFBR1+ tumor and OS was observed for the subgroup with TGFBR1‐stroma (p = 0.001). Those results prevailed in multivariable analysis. Inhibition of TGFBR1 showed antineoplastic effects in vitro. In combination with radiation, vactosertib showed synergistic effects.ConclusionOur results indicate a high risk of death in tumorTGFBR1+|stromaTGFBR1‐ expressing patients. In vitro data suggest a potential radiosensitizing effect of TGFBR1 inhibition by vactosertib.
Integration of hospital and community care for paediatric ophthalmology: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Chan Stephen C. Y. , Shah Parth R. , Tan Kimberley , Ford Belinda , Webber Ann , Keay Lisa 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundTo explore collaborative care models for paediatric eye care that integrate hospital and community‐based care to address access blocks.MethodsSequential referrals to a tertiary paediatric ophthalmology clinic between April and October 2019 and subsequent encounters up until July 2020 at a major metropolitan public children's hospital in Sydney, Australia, were reviewed to identify those cases suitable for community care. Semi‐structured phone interviews were conducted with eye health service providers, including ophthalmologists, orthoptists and optometrists, as well as service users to explore their perspectives on potential changes to service delivery. Qualitative data were analysed deductively using the Levesque model for access to healthcare and Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to inform implementation strategies for future models of care.ResultsOne‐third of the 439 audited referrals (30.5%; 134/439) were identified as suitable for community management. Interviews revealed five themes relating to potential models of care, which would support and promote access: integrated health systems, standardised quality of care, interprofessional trust, multidisciplinary governance and patient‐centred care. Key recommendations for future implementation included: (i) identifying and preparing clinical champions, (ii) conducting educational meetings, (iii) conducting local needs assessments and (iv) informing local opinion leaders.ConclusionsThis audit highlights access blocks and poor targeting of referrals to tertiary paediatric ophthalmology services in a metropolitan hospital. Integration with community practitioners was identified as an acceptable way to streamline services, and strategies that may support successful implementation in this setting were identified.
Non‐Tuberculosis Mycobacterium Periprosthetic Joint Infections Following Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty: Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Maimaiti Zulipikaer , Li Zhuo , Xu Chi , Fu Jun , Hao Libo , Chen Jiying , Li Xiang , Chai Wei 
Published: May 2023

ObjectivePeriprosthetic joint infection (PJI) caused by non‐tubercular mycobacteria (NTM) is uncommon but catastrophic. However, conclusive clinical data on PJI caused by NTM are lacking. In this case series and systematic review, the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management of NTM PJI are summarized and analyzed.MethodsFrom 2012 to 2020, we retrospectively analyzed consecutive PJI cases caused by NTM in our institution. A literature review was also conducted from January 2000 to December 2021, utilizing the PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases to identify all reported NTM‐induced PJI cases. The clinical characteristics, demographics, pathogen identification, treatment protocols, and prognosis of NTM PJI were summarized and analyzed.ResultsIn this retrospective analysis, seven patients infected with NTM following total joint arthroplasty at our institution were included, including six cases of PJI caused by NTM and one case of septic arthritis (SA) caused by NTM. There were six men and one woman, and their average age was 62.3 years. The average interval between TJA and PJI onset was 4 months. The preoperative serological markers, including the mean ESR (51 mm/h), CRP (4.0 mg/dL), fibrinogen (5.7 g/L), and D‐dimer (1.1 g/L), were increased. Six patients underwent staged revision surgery, and one patient with SA received antibiotic‐loaded bone cement beads to treat the infection. After an average of 33 months of observation following surgical intervention, none of the patients showed any symptoms of infection recurrence. From 2000 to 2021, 68 patients with NTM PJI were found in 39 studies in the published literature. Reinfections occurred within 1 year after arthroplasty in more than half (53.2%) of the patients. M. fortuitum and M. abscesses were the most prevalent rapidly growing mycobacteria (RGM) in all PJI patients, whereas Mycobacterium avium intracellulare (MAC) was the most prevalent slowly growing mycobacterium (SGM). The corresponding antibiotics were amikacin and ethambutol. The rate of culture‐negative without specific clinical symptoms was as high as 36.4% (12/33), while 45% (18/40) utilized additional diagnostic techniques such as NGS. A final clinical follow‐up record was available for 59 patients (86.7%; mean follow‐up period, 29 months), and 10.1% of patients failed to respond to treatment.ConclusionOrthopaedic surgeons should consider NTM in patients with negative routine cultures who are at risk for Mycobacterium infection. Treatment options rely on the accurate result of microbiologic identification and drug sensitivity testing, and to achieve this, it may be necessary to send multiple culture specimens, extend the culture time, and change the culture medium. Every effort should be made to identify NTM and its various subtypes through modern diagnostic tools if necessary.
Bilateral Idiopathic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Clinical‐Functional Characterization and Efficacy of Two Combined Postoperative Physiotherapeutic Treatments
Authors: Georgeto Sergio Murilo , Andraus Rodrigo Antônio Carvalho , de Oliveira Júnior Eros , da Silva Rubens A , Ngomo Suzy , Fernandes Karen Barros Parron 
Published: May 2023

ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of combined association instrument myofascial mobilization (IASTM) and stretching in patients with idiopathic bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) operated on one hand and to analyze the response of the operated (OH) and non‐operated (NH) hand according to the sequence of therapies. Research on these parameters has not yet been found in the literature.MethodsRandomized controlled crossover study with 43 participants using the objective and subjective outcome variables. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: starting with stretching followed by IASTM and starting with IASTM followed by stretching. Then patients underwent surgery on the hand with more severe involvement and physical therapy rehabilitation was started 30 days after for a period of 4 weeks. After the 1‐week interval the participants who started with stretching were referred to IASTM and vice versa, following the same previous patterns. The outpatient reassessments took place at 3 to 6 months. Crossover ANOVA and effect sizes were used as analysis methods.ResultsTime was the most significant outcome for all variables both during therapies and at 6‐month follow‐up. Regarding response to the combined therapies between OH and NH, there were differences for both OH and NH, with the greatest impact on NH for the palmar grip and VAS variables. The treatment sequences were significant for pain on the NH and mental SF‐12, suggesting that starting with IASTM followed by stretching had a superior outcome for these outcomes.ConclusionThe combination of IASTM with stretching, used in the postoperative period of bilateral idiopathic CTS, proved to be supplementary, with significant results and large effect sizes for most of the outcomes assessed, both during the time of application of the therapies and in the 6‐month follow‐up for both hands, and may constitute a viable therapeutic alternative for this population.
Left bundle branch area pacing prevents pacing induced cardiomyopathy in long‐term observation
Authors: Bednarek Agnieszka , Kiełbasa Grzegorz , Moskal Paweł , Ostrowska Aleksandra , Bednarski Adam , Sondej Tomasz , Kusiak Aleksander , Rajzer Marek , Jastrzębski Marek 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundLeft bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) is one of the methods to deliver conduction system pacing which potentially avoids the negative impact of conventional right ventricular pacing.ObjectiveTo assess echocardiographic outcomes in a long‐term observation in patients with LBBAP implemented for bradyarrhythmia indications.Methods and ResultsA total of 151 patients with symptomatic bradycardia and LBBAP pacemaker implanted, were prospectively included in the study. Subjects with left bundle branch block and CRT indications (n = 29), ventricular pacing burden <40% (n = 11), and loss of LBBAP (n = 10) were excluded from further analysis. At baseline and the last follow‐up visit, echocardiography with global longitudinal strain (GLS) assessment, 12‐lead ECG, pacemaker interrogation, and blood level of NT‐proBNP were performed. The median follow‐up period was 23 months (15.5–28). None of the analyzed patients fulfilled the criteria for pacing induced cardiomyopathy (PICM). Improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and GLS was observed in patients with LVEF <50% at baseline (n = 39): 41.4 ± 9.2% versus 45.6 ± 9.9%, and 12.9 ± 3.6% versus 15.5 ± 3.7%, respectively. In the subgroup with preserved EF (n = 62), LVEF and GLS remained stable at follow‐up: 59.3 ± 5.5% versus 60 ± 5.5%, and 19 ± 3.9% versus 19.4 ± 3.8%, respectively.ConclusionLBBAP prevents PICM in patients with preserved LVEF and improves left ventricle function in subjects with depressed LVEF. LBBAP might be the preferred pacing modality for bradyarrhythmia indications.
Comparative transcriptome profiling reveals the multiple levels of crosstalk in phytohormone networks in Brassica napus
Authors: Liu Dongxu , Yan Guanbo , Wang Shengbo , Yu Liangqian , Lin Wei , Lu Shaoping , Guo Liang , Yang Qing‐Yong , Dai Cheng 
Published: May 2023

SummaryPlant hormones are the intrinsic factors that control plant development. The integration of different phytohormone pathways in a complex network of synergistic, antagonistic and additive interactions has been elucidated in model plants. However, the systemic level of transcriptional responses to hormone crosstalk in Brassica napus is largely unknown. Here, we present an in‐depth temporal‐resolution study of the transcriptomes of the seven hormones in B. napus seedlings. Differentially expressed gene analysis revealed few common target genes that co‐regulated (up‐ and down‐regulated) by seven hormones; instead, different hormones appear to regulate distinct members of protein families. We then constructed the regulatory networks between the seven hormones side by side, which allowed us to identify key genes and transcription factors that regulate the hormone crosstalk in B. napus. Using this dataset, we uncovered a novel crosstalk between gibberellin and cytokinin in which cytokinin homeostasis was mediated by RGA‐related CKXs expression. Moreover, the modulation of gibberellin metabolism by the identified key transcription factors was confirmed in B. napus. Furthermore, all data were available online from http://yanglab.hzau.edu.cn/BnTIR/hormone. Our study reveals an integrated hormone crosstalk network in Brassica napus, which also provides a versatile resource for future hormone studies in plant species.
Use of meloxicam with or without dipyrone in non‐surgical embryo recovery in hair sheep: Effects on animal welfare
Authors: Ribeiro Ana Clara Sarzedas , Taira Augusto Ryonosuke , Santos Vanessa Costa , Brair Viviane Lopes , Lopes Maria Paula Fassarella , Balaro Mario Felipe Alvarez , Souza‐Fabjan Joanna Maria Gonçalves , da Fonseca Jeferson Ferreira , Ungerfeld Rodolfo , Brandão Felipe Zandonadi 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThe aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of meloxicam with or without dipyrone on the welfare of ewes subjected to non‐surgical embryo recovery (NSER). Two studies were carried out using 51 multiparous Santa Inês ewes. All animals received a standard oestrous synchronization treatment and a superovulatory protocol. In Study 1, 12 ewes received meloxicam (GM) before cervical transposition (1 mg kg−1, i.v.), repeated 24 h after (1 mg kg−1, i.m.), while the other 10 received a saline solution, remaining as a control group (GC1). In Study 2, ewes were allocated into a group of 15 ewes treated as GM of Study 1 associated with dipyrone (GMD; 50 mg kg−1, i.m.) before cervical transposition, 12 h, and 24 h after, or a control group (GC2) of 14 ewes treated with saline solution. In both studies, heart and respiratory rates (RR), cortisol, glucose, total proteins, albumin and globulins blood concentration were recorded before sedation (BS), after sedation (AS), after cervical transposition, immediately after collection (IAC), and 0.5, 1.5, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h after embryo collection (hAC). In Study 1, RR tended to be greater in GC1 (p = .08), serum total proteins and globulins values were lower and serum albumin values were greater in this group than GM (p = .003, p < .0001, and p < .0001, respectively). In Study 2, treatment of GMD tended to reduce the glycaemia at AS (p = .052) and reduced it at 3hAC (p < .0001), and 6hAC (p = .03). It also tended to reduce cortisol concentrations (p = .10). The other variables varied with NSER without interaction with the experimental treatments. In conclusion, in this study condition, NSER in sheep induced transient changes indicative of stress and possibly pain, therefore, affecting animal welfare. The administration of meloxicam was ineffective to reduce those responses, and the association of dipyrone had only slight effects without modifying the main welfare indicative responses in ewes subjected to NSER.
Orthogonal polynomials on a class of planar algebraic curves
Authors: Fasondini Marco , Olver Sheehan , Xu Yuan 
Published: May 2023

AbstractWe construct bivariate orthogonal polynomials (OPs) on algebraic curves of the form in where and ϕ is a polynomial of arbitrary degreed, in terms of univariate semiclassical OPs. We compute connection coefficients that relate the bivariate OPs to a polynomial basis that is itself orthogonal and whose span contains the OPs as a subspace. The connection matrix is shown to be banded and the connection coefficients and Jacobi matrices for OPs of degree are computed via the Lanczos algorithm in operations.
Aptian Oceanic Anoxic Event 1a in the shallow, carbonate‐dominated intrashelf Kazhdumi Basin, Zagros Mountains
Authors: Jafarian Arman , Husinec Antun , Wang Chengshan , Chen Xi , Saboor Abdus , Li Yalin 
Published: May 2023

AbstractThe early Aptian Selli Oceanic Anoxic Event 1a (ca 120 Ma) is a major Mesozoic episode of biotic, climatic, environmental and geochemical perturbations associated with the extensive burial of organic matter. Based on the new sedimentological, biostratigraphic and carbon‐isotope data from the Kazhdumi Intrashelf Basin, this study tracks the Oceanic Anoxic Event 1a‐associated perturbations along the north‐eastern margin of the Arabian Plate. The studied succession has five complete third‐order sequences with three facies associations: (i) deep open‐marine and intrashelf basin; (ii) shallow open‐marine mid‐ramp; and (iii) inner ramp. The Oceanic Anoxic Event 1a‐equivalent deposits include the former two facies associations – (i) and (ii) – and are 25 to 31 m thick, which corresponds to the accumulation rates of ca 1.9 to 3.1 cm kyr−1 (uncorrected for compaction) based on the 1.0 to 1.3 Myr duration of the event. The interval retained a high‐resolution record of carbon‐isotope and sea‐level fluctuations, which enables correlation across the Arabian Plate and Tethys. The Oceanic Anoxic Event 1a onset is marked by a biotic change from ostreid‐dominated shallow‐marine limestone with abundant foraminifera (Palorbitolina lenticularis and Choffatella decipiens) to dark grey deep‐water planktonic foraminifera‐rich and radiolaria‐rich limestone with chert and organic‐rich shale (Radiolarian Flood Zone). The upper oceanic anoxic event part of 1a is characterized by the shallowing‐upward, backstepping facies marking the return to a shallow open‐marine setting, albeit without recovery of the Palorbitolina–Choffatella association. Deep open‐marine deposition (Kazhdumi Tongue) was restored early during the Oceanic Anoxic Event 1a recovery in the latest early Aptian. A return to shallow open‐marine environments with Mesorbitolina‐rich limestone marks the beginning of the late Aptian, followed by a major sea‐level fall and karstification. This study resolves some of the uncertainties related to the order and timing of the events influencing the environmental disturbances across the eastern Arabian Plate during Oceanic Anoxic Event 1a and stresses the importance of shallow carbonate‐dominated intrashelf basins as faithful recorders of carbon‐isotope and sea‐level oscillations and palaeoenvironmental changes during global oceanic perturbations.