bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational fluid dynamics analysis of cabinet‐type solar dryer
Authors: Chaudhari Vishal D. , Kulkarni Govind N. , Sewatkar Chandrashekhar M.
Published: May 2021

One of the major constraints in the acceptability of solar dryer in industrial and commercial applications is lack of control on the drying process due to variable, periodic, and dilute availability of solar heat. For reliable operation, process control with auxiliaries become essential in industrial solar dryers. Integration of solar dryers with auxiliaries is also not studied substantially. This research document focuses on CFD simulation of cabinet‐type solar dryer integrated with auxiliaries, which can be operated under different operating conditions. The dryer is equipped with auxiliary heaters and blowers to have precise control over the temperature inside the chamber. The simulations are carried out for drying temperature of 318 K. The results showed that as the day progresses (radiation intensity increases), the region of average temperature increases. The extent of temperature distribution also helps to locate the region of temperature around the drying temperature. Also to facilitate the control of input energy by the auxiliary heaters, a region is located where the average temperature of air inside the drying chamber can be obtained for varying operating conditions. The region lies about 1.2–1.6 m on X‐ordinate, 0.8–1.0 m on Y‐ordinate, and 0.7–1.2 and 3.7–4.3 m on Z‐ordinate. Thus, a feedback loop developed can modulate the input and make it possible to operate the dryer with maximum effectiveness.

Practical Applications

The potential for utilization of solar thermal energy in commercial and industrial drying applications up to air temperature of 80°C is remarkable. Solar dryers integrated with an auxiliary heating arrangement assure to save a lot of fossil fuel energy. Reliability and uninterrupted operation are the major requirements from a solar dryer. The manuscript presents computational fluid dynamics analysis of the solar dryer equipped with auxiliary heating. The extent of temperature distribution is determined for dryer with and without auxiliary heating and it clearly reveals that proper auxiliary heating control, helps to maintain temperature inside the dryer. Also the effect of variation of geometry and variation of solar radiation is studied and common region is found which can help to modulate the auxiliary heating. It provided sound background for feedback control mechanism design that will keep temperature near the drying temperature of product and improve drying product quality.
Patient participation in shared decision‐making in palliative care – an integrative review
Authors: Kuosmanen Lotta , Hupli Maija , Ahtiluoto Satu , Haavisto Elina
Published: May 2021

Background

Shared decision‐making is a process where the decisions regarding patients’ care are done in collaboration with the patient, the patient's family and a healthcare professional or an interdisciplinary team. Shared decision‐making is considered to be a part of patient centred care, and it enables patient autonomy which is a cornerstone of palliative care. In the past, research on the experiences of palliative care patients’ participation in shared decision‐making involving a nurse has been limited as the focus has mainly been on specific medical interventions, rather than holistic palliative care.

Objectives

To synthesise research findings on patient participation in shared decision‐making in palliative care.

Research design

An integrative literature review.

Methods

The literature search was conducted by searching computerised databases (CINAHL, PubMed, PsychINFO and COCHRANE). The search resulted in 12 articles. The quality of the included articles was evaluated with JBI checklist, and the data analysis was done using inductive content analysis. Reporting was done according to a PRISMA checklist.

Findings

Patients do participate in shared decision‐making and desire to participate in everyday nursing care decisions, treatment‐related medical decisions and end‐of‐life decisions. The prerequisites for patient participation in shared decision‐making are interdisciplinary teamwork, open communication, good patient–healthcare professional relationship, a favourable environment and mutual information.

Conclusion

Palliative care patients do participate and desire to participate in decisions that cover a much broader range of topics than just medical interventions and this should be addressed in future research and in practise. The main responsibility for successful patient participation in shared decision‐making lies with the healthcare professionals and the organisations providing palliative care. There is a need to conduct more research from the patient's perspective and explore the meaning of participating in shared decision‐making from the patient's point of view.
Structuring Mortgages for Macroeconomic Stability
Authors: CAMPBELL JOHN Y. , CLARA NUNO , COCCO JOÃO F.
Published: May 2021

We study mortgage design features aimed at stabilizing the macroeconomy. We model overlapping generations of borrowers and an infinitely lived risk‐averse representative lender. Mortgages are priced using an equilibrium pricing kernel derived from the lender's endogenous consumption. We consider an adjustable‐rate mortgage with an option that during recessions allows borrowers to pay only interest on their loan and extend its maturity. The option stabilizes consumption growth over the business cycle, shifts defaults to expansions, and enhances welfare. The cyclical properties of the contract are attractive to a risk‐averse lender so that the mortgage can be provided at a relatively low cost.
Factors associated with the inconsistent diagnosis between frozen section and permanent pathologic examination in borderline ovarian tumors
Authors: Chen Ying‐Yi , Lin Hao , Wu Chen‐Hsuan , Lan Jui , Tsai Ching‐Chou , Fu Hung‐Chun , Ou Yu‐Che
Published: May 2021

Aim

The predictive accuracy of frozen sections for borderline ovarian tumors (BOTs) is suboptimal. The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of BOTs and factors associated with an upgrade to a permanent pathological diagnosis of invasive carcinoma in patients diagnosed with BOTs by frozen section.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study between 2011 and 2018 at Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (KCGMH). Two hundred and twenty‐five records of eligible patients with a diagnosis of BOT by frozen section or permanent diagnosis were reviewed. Positive predictive value and the diagnostic accuracy of frozen sections were calculated. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine the clinicopathological factors associated with an upgrade of the diagnosis from a borderline tumor to malignancy.

Results

The agreement between frozen section and permanent pathological diagnoses was 63.1%, and the positive predictive value was 72.1%. The multivariate analysis revealed that CA‐125 level > 136 U/mL (odds ratio [OR] = 2.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.3–6.9; p = 0.012), and tumor histologic type (clear cell/endometrioid vs. mucinous; OR:32.8, 95% CI = 6.9–154.8, p < 0.001; clear cell/endometrioid vs. serous: OR 48.1, 95% CI = 8.8–261.8, p < 0.001) were independent risk factors for an upgrade of the permanent diagnosis from a BOT to ovarian carcinoma.

Conclusion

An elevated CA‐125 level (over 136 U/mL) and tumor histologic type (clear cell and endometrioid subtypes) were associated with an upgrade in the diagnosis of ovarian tumor from a BOT on frozen section to a permanent diagnosis of malignancy.
The impact of timing for estrogen supplementation in polycystic ovary syndrome patients undergoing primed in vitro maturation
Authors: Hatirnaz Ebru , Hatirnaz Safak , Kanat‐Pektas Mine , Dokuzeylul Gungor Nur , Erol Onur , Kalyoncu Senol , Dahan Michael H.
Published: May 2021

Objective

This study aims to determine the effects of early and late onset estrogen supplementation on the immature oocyte retrieval, fertilization and clinical pregnancy rates in follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and human chorionic hormone (hCG) primed in vitro maturation (IVM) cycles of the patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of 161 patients with PCOS who underwent FSH and hCG primed IVM. Group 1 included 120 patients who received early onset estrogen supplementation while group 2 consisted of 41 patients who had late onset estrogen supplementation in primed IVM cycles. Immature oocyte (germinal vesicle and/or metaphase I) retrieval and fertilization rates were the primary outcomes, whereas clinical pregnancy and live rates were the secondary outcomes.

Results

Group 1 patients had significantly higher body mass index and more previous IVF attempts (p = 0.001 and p = 0.008, respectively). All of the retrieved oocytes from the PCOS patients were either germinal vesicle or metaphase I oocytes and there were no metaphase II oocytes among the retrieved oocytes. Both groups had statistically similar numbers of metaphase I and fertilized oocytes (p > 0.05 for both). However, group 1 patients had significantly lower number of germinal vesicle oocytes but significantly higher number of metaphase II oocytes (p = 0.001 for both). Both groups had statistically similar fertilization (85.0% vs 78.0%), clinical pregnancy (49.2% vs 43.9%) and live birth (37.5% vs 39.0%) rates (p > 0.05 for all).

Conclusion

Early onset estrogen supplementation appears to improve the quality of retrieved immature oocytes and contribute to the maturation of oocytes in stimulated IVM cycles.
Persistent fontanelles in Chihuahuas. Part I. Distribution and clinical relevance
Authors: Kiviranta Anna‐Mariam , Rusbridge Clare , Lappalainen Anu K. , Junnila Jouni J. T. , Jokinen Tarja S.
Published: May 2021

Background

The Chihuahua dog breed is known for frequent occurrence of a bregmatic fontanelle on the dorsal skull. A common conception is that this skull defect is a clinically irrelevant finding. No studies, however, describe its prevalence or whether it is accompanied by other persistent fontanelles (PFs). Although Chihuahuas are predisposed to Chiari‐like malformation (CM) and syringomyelia (SM), it is unknown whether PFs occur more commonly in dogs with clinical signs that are caused by CM or SM.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To describe the number and location of PFs at cranial sutures (CSs) and to compare the occurrence of these PFs in dogs with and without CM/SM‐related clinical signs. We hypothesized that PFs also occur commonly at lateral and caudal cranial surfaces, affect a higher number of CSs, and are larger in dogs with CM/SM‐related clinical signs.

Animals

Fifty client‐owned Chihuahuas with or without CM/SM‐related clinical signs.

Results

Of the 50 dogs evaluated, 46 (92%) had either 1 or several PFs. The mean ± SD number of PFs was 2.8 ± 3.0 (range, 0‐13). A total of 138 PFs occupied 118 CSs with 57 (48%) located dorsally, 44 (37%) caudally, and 17 (14%) laterally. The number of CSs affected by PFs was significantly higher (P ≤ .001) and total PF area was significantly larger (P = .003) in dogs with CM/SM‐related clinical signs.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Persistent fontanelles are very common in this group of Chihuahuas and appear at dorsal, lateral, and caudal cranial surfaces. They are more numerous and larger in Chihuahuas with CM/SM‐related clinical signs.
Abnormal cholesterol metabolism underlies relative adrenal insufficiency in decompensated cirrhosis
Authors: Wentworth Brian J. , Haug Rebecca M. , Northup Patrick G. , Caldwell Stephen H. , Henry Zachary H.
Published: May 2021

Background and Aims

Relative adrenal insufficiency (RAI) in patients with cirrhosis is associated with increased mortality. Although the pathogenesis of RAI remains unclear, disordered cholesterol metabolism may contribute.

Methods

We performed a prospective cohort study of 96 non‐critically ill subjects with decompensated cirrhosis at a tertiary care centre. Subjects were administered 250 µcg cosyntropin, with RAI defined as an increase in total cortisol <9 µg/dL. High‐density lipoprotein (HDL) levels and serum cholesterol esterification percentage (%CE), a validated surrogate marker of lecithin‐cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) activity, were measured to assess the relationship between disordered cholesterol metabolism and the presence of RAI. Subjects were followed until death, liver transplantation or a maximum of 6 months.

Results

Subjects with RAI had decreased levels of HDL (18 vs 29 mg/dL, P < .01) and %CE (64% vs 66%, P = .03). Correlation was seen between HDL and %CE (r = 0.7, R2 = 0.49; P < .01) and each integer decrease in %CE predicted an approximately 2% increase in the probability of RAI. Transplant‐free survival was reduced in subjects with RAI at both 6 months (43% vs 71%, P = .01) and 90 days (54% vs 81%, P < .01).

Conclusions

Disruption in cholesterol metabolism contributes to the development of RAI in cirrhosis, as decreased LCAT activity leads to reduced HDL trafficking to the adrenal gland.
Cyclophosphamide‐induced posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome: A case report
Authors: Shrestha Gentle S. , Nepal Gaurav , Basnet Babin , Bhandari Sandip , Poudyal Bishesh S.
Published: May 2021

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is an acute neurological disorder of vascular origin characterized by headache, seizures, encephalopathy, visual disturbances, and focal neurological deficits. Characteristic clinical findings along with T2 or fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) hyperintensities on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the bilateral parieto‐occipital region help confirm the diagnosis. In addition to common risk factors such as eclampsia, preeclampsia, renal failure, sepsis, and autoimmune diseases, PRES has also been reported in patients receiving chemotherapeutic drugs. We report a case of a 65‐year‐old woman with multiple myeloma who developed PRES following the administration of cyclophosphamide. Although our patients had multiple risk factors for PRES, such as renal insufficiency, bortezomib, cyclophosphamide, and steroids, a comprehensive clinical evaluation pointed toward cyclophosphamide as the cause of PRES. Active treatment to lower blood pressure, the use of antiepileptic drugs, and the withdrawal of cyclophosphamide led to rapid and complete recovery with no residual neurological dysfunction.
Development of a parent experience measure for paediatric critical care transport teams
Authors: Evans Ruth E. C. , Barber Victoria , Seaton Sarah , Draper Elizabeth S. , Rajah Fatemah , Pagel Christina , Polke Eithne , Ramnarayan Padmanabhan , Wray Jo ,   the DEPICT Study Investigators
Published: May 2021

Background

A third of children admitted to paediatric intensive care units (PICUs) in the United Kingdom (UK) are transported by paediatric critical care transport services (PCCTs). Parents have described the transfer journey as particularly stressful. Critical care nurses have a key role in mitigating the impact of the journey on parents. Evaluating parents' experiences is important to inform service improvements.

Aim and objectives

Our aim was to describe the development of a new measure of parents' experiences of PCCTs, derived from data collected in the Differences in access to Emergency Paediatric Intensive Care and care during Transport (DEPICT) study.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional survey was used.

Methods

As part of the DEPICT study, a 17‐item transport experience questionnaire was developed and given to parents of children transported by PCCTs to 24 UK PICUs during a 12‐month period. Analyses included exploratory factor analysis and a validation review by a PCCT stakeholder group.

Results

Families of 1722 children (1798 journeys) completed questionnaires. Five items were excluded from further analysis as correlation coefficients were <0.3. Two factors explained 53% of the variance and all 12 items loaded on one of these factors. Factor 1 (8 items) explained 47% of the variance, had excellent internal reliability and the clustered items were conceptually coherent with a specific relevance to PCCTs; these were offered for consideration, with other items possibly discarded. Twenty‐eight PCCT clinicians reviewed the questions. Using a 70% agreement threshold, one additional, previously discarded, item was identified for inclusion, resulting in a nine‐item experience measure.

Conclusion

Our brief measure of parents' experience of critical care transport provides a standardized measure that can be used across all PCCTs, enabling national benchmarking of services and potentially increasing the collection and use of parent experience data to improve services.

Relevance to clinical practice

Being able to measure experience provides an opportunity to understand how to make services better to improve experience.
Population ecology and dynamics of a remnant natural population of European yew Taxus baccata in a lowland temperate forest – implications for use in reforestation
Authors: Jensen Ditte Arp , Svenning Jens‐Christian
Published: May 2021

There is increasing focus on reforestation, but the efforts still often include limited subsets of species despite evidence that tree diversity promote biodiversity and ecological resilience. In addition to these benefits, greater inclusion of rare native species in reforestation efforts would also help conserve these species in an uncertain future. Here, we investigate the population ecology and dynamics of the only remaining historical population of the shade‐adapted under‐ and mid‐story tree European yew Taxus baccata in Denmark to inform its potential usage in reforestation. The species has been widely extirpated from European landscapes, and while much used in horticulture, is hardly used in reforestation, so there is limited experience with its requirements and performance. We collected data on all individuals in 2015 and compared them with results from a previous census in 1999. Furthermore, we used boosted regression trees (BRT) modelling to investigate the ecological drivers of the distributions of its different life stages. Our results show a stable T. baccata population, with much regeneration in areas of more open‐canopy conditions that also support high survival between life‐stages. The BRT results show that moss‐dominated microhabitats under moderately shaded conditions are important for T. baccata seedling establishment, while higher light availability is important for survival from sapling to adult life‐stages. For use in reforestation, we recommend providing moderately shaded microhabitats to allow the seedlings and small saplings to escape competition while also acting as protection from herbivores. Through their long‐lived nature, low stature and evergreen foliage, T. baccata would increase the structural complexity of young woodlands, likely enhancing their value for biodiversity, their ecological resilience, as well as their amenity value. Inclusion of T. baccata in reforestation efforts would also aid its spontaneous recolonization of woodland areas, helping it to build larger, more widespread populations with greater resilience to future pressures.
Functional aspects of solanaceae trichomes in heavy metal detoxification
Authors: Koul Monika , Thomas Lebin , Karmakar Kapudeep
Published: May 2021

Solanaceous plants are ubiquitous and are able to colonize degraded, abandoned and metal polluted habitats. Members of the family have evolved interesting extrinsic and intrinsic traits to combat the metal toxicity in multiple ways. Indumentum constituted mostly of trichome layer provides structural defense for both biotic stress (herbivory, oviposition, microbial pathogenesis) and abiotic stress (like drought, heat, freezing, photooxidation and UV radiation). Plants with heavy metal tolerance can accumulate toxic heavy metals in their trichomes as a part of their elemental defense detoxification strategy. Apart from the canonical functions, trichomes support ion and metal homeostasis, including the sequestration, compartmentalization, accumulation and excretion of heavy metals in many ways. The trichomes in Solanaceae are known to have a key role in the detoxification of Cd, Ni, Pb and Zn. Expressed sequence tag (EST)‐based large‐scale gene analysis in tobacco has indicated that trichomes are biologically active and stress–responsive structures. Trichome secretions and exudates also play an active role in metal detoxification process. Given that trichomes provide chemical defense from heavy metal stresses in the form of sequestration and extrusion, the plants having trichomes have potential role in remediation of contaminated soils. Solanaceae trichomes can serve as important model tissues that can be modified to attenuate metal toxicity, serve as environmental indicators and enhance phytoremediation potential of the family.
A survey of traditional medicinal plants used to treat common human and livestock ailments from Diguna Fango district, Wolaita, southern Ethiopia
Authors: Wendimu Abenezer , Tekalign Wondimagegnehu , Asfaw Biniyam
Published: May 2021

Plants have been used as a traditional medicine for many years for the people of Wolaita, Ethiopia. The aim of the study was to record the local knowledge of the peoples who inhabit the Diguna Fango district. A semi‐structured interview was conducted with a total of 60 informants. Totally, 50 species belonging to 24 families were identified to treat 28 human and livestock ailments. Solanaceae (14.3%) was the most abundant family whereas; the Rosaceae (1.00) had the highest family use value (FUV). Most of the plants (82%) were reportedly used to treat human diseases. Herbs (34%) were the dominant growth habits, followed by trees (33%). The leaves (30%) were identified as the most used plant part. The most common methods of remedy preparations were eating and chewing (18.2% each) followed by grinding (13.61%). Oral (73.3%) was the major route of administration, followed by dermal (21.7%). The cardiovascular system diseases category (1.00) had a higher informant consensus factor value followed by the fever disease category (0.90). Croton macrostachyus Hochst. ex Delile, Commelina benghalensis L., Triticum dicoccon (Schrank) Schübl. and Pentas arvensis Hiern (100%) had a higher fidelity level to treat swelling, chirt (skin diseases), weight gain and bone fractures, respectively. Persea americana Mill. was ranked highest as the most preferable medicinal plant for various purposes by local people, followed by Acacia abyssinica Benth. The principal threatening factors reported were charcoal production (26%), agricultural expansion (15%) and firewood (14%). Out of the plants and their uses documented, 16% of the medicinal plants and 28.6% of the uses were novel. The present study showed the existence of indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants to treat human and livestock ailments. Therefore, there should be mentoring for the local people in the study area to conserve their indigenous knowledge and resources.
Light, nitrogen supply, and neighboring plants dictate costs and benefits of nitrogen fixation for seedlings of a tropical nitrogen‐fixing tree
Authors: Taylor Benton N. , Menge Duncan N. L.
Published: May 2021

The ability to fix nitrogen may confer a competitive advantage or disadvantage to symbiotic nitrogen‐fixing plants depending on the availability of soil nitrogen and energy to fuel fixation. Understanding these costs and benefits of nitrogen fixation is critical to predicting ecosystem dynamics and nutrient cycling.

We grew inoculated (with symbiotic bacteria) and uninoculated seedlings of Pentaclethra macroloba (a nitrogen‐fixing tree species) both in isolation and with Virola koschnyi (a nonfixing species) under gradients of light and soil nitrogen to assess how the ability to fix nitrogen and fixation activity affect growth, biomass allocation, and responses to neighboring plants.

Inoculation itself did not provide a growth advantage to nitrogen fixers, regardless of nitrogen limitation status. Higher nitrogen fixation rates increased biomass growth similarly for nitrogen‐limited and nitrogen‐saturated fixers. Nodule production was offset by reduced fine‐root biomass for inoculated nitrogen fixers, resulting in no change in total belowground allocation associated with nitrogen fixation. Under nitrogen‐limited conditions, inoculated nitrogen fixers partially downregulated fixation in the presence of a nonfixing neighbor.

These results suggest that nitrogen fixation can provide a growth advantage, even under nitrogen‐saturated conditions, and that nitrogen fixers may reduce fixation rates to minimize facilitation of neighbors.
Evaluating physical environments for older people—Validation of the Swedish version of the Sheffield Care Environment Assessment Matrix for use in Finnish long‐term care
Authors: Wahlroos Niina , Stolt Minna , Nordin Susanna , Suhonen Riitta
Published: May 2021

Aim

To validate a Finnish version of the Sheffield Care Environment Assessment Matrix (S‐SCEAM) instrument for assessing the physical environment of long‐term care settings and to describe the current status of the environmental quality of long‐term care settings for older people in Finland.

Background

The importance of providing a well‐designed physical environment for older people is supported by the research literature. There is limited research of the physical environments of long‐term care settings from the perspective of nursing science and nor is there much research into the instruments for assessing them.

Design

A descriptive, correlational and observational study.

Methods

Forward and back translation process was used followed by structured observations with S‐SCEAM‐Fin in 20 long‐term care units in intensive residential care facilities for older people with 24‐h nursing assistance and with extensive support for daily activities. Spearman's rho correlation, Cohen's kappa, percentage of agreement and Kuder–Richardson formula coefficients were calculated to assess psychometric properties of the translated S‐SCEAM‐Fin. S‐SCEAM‐Fin standardised scores were calculated to describe the current status of the environmental quality.

Results

Inter‐scale (domain) correlations showed low to moderate correlations between the domains. Consistency was acceptable in four of the domains. Cohen's kappa values indicated good (0.796 and 0.648) intra‐rater and inter‐rater (0.910 and 0.553) reliability. The overall mean of the standardised scores was 57.00, but there was variation between domains. Small units received the highest scores in the six domains.

Conclusions

S‐SCEAM‐Fin was useful in assessing environmental quality. Assessment of the environmental quality disclosed deficiencies in ensuring settings adequate for older people.

Implications for practice

The increasing numbers of older people with health conditions are residing in long‐term care settings. It is essential to create supportive physical environments. The instrument can be useful when planning new facilities or proposing new recommendations for institutional living environments.
Development of a multiplex amplicon‐sequencing assay to detect low‐frequency mutations in poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) breeding programmes
Authors: Vilperte Vinicius , Boehm Robert , Debener Thomas
Published: May 2021

Poinsettia is an economically important ornamental potted plant in which certain bract colour variants are often obtained by mutation breeding. Previously, in poinsettia, we identified Bract1, a GST gene involved in the sequestration and transport of anthocyanins to the vacuole. This gene carries a short, highly mutable 4‐bp repeat in its coding region. Loss of one repeat unit leads to a loss of function for Bract1, and in homozygous mutants, anthocyanin‐based coloration is absent, resulting in white or cream‐coloured bracts. Although mutation induction through ionizing radiation leads to a high frequency of mutations in Bract1, mutants are difficult to obtain from homozygous red genotypes. In this study, we used Bract1‐specific amplicon sequencing as a tool to identify mutations in pools of tissues, which enabled the detection of mutations in dilutions of up to one mutant in 50 nonmutated samples. This approach enabled efficient screening of recalcitrant homozygous genotypes for mutated alleles and the reduction of the mutation load in the application of ionizing radiation in mutation breeding programmes.
Dung beetle resistance to desiccation varies within and among populations
Authors: Nervo Beatrice , Roggero Angela , Chamberlain Dan , Rolando Antonio , Palestrini Claudia
Published: May 2021

The study of desiccation resistance and its underlying traits is key to understanding species responses to changes in water availability, especially in the context of predicted increases in the frequency and severity of droughts due to climate change. We performed laboratory experiments using dung beetles, important ecosystem service providers, to investigate variations in physiological traits within species, both at population and individual levels. Desiccation resistance, water loss tolerance and water content were measured in lowland and mountain populations to investigate whether physiological traits vary (i) according to elevation across four species, and (ii) according to sex or male morphology (minor and major morphs) in two species, and if these responses were consistent across species. Our results showed that desiccation resistance of dung beetles varies both at individual and population levels. We found that desiccation resistance varied between lowland and mountain populations, but no differences were found for other traits such as water loss tolerance. Moreover, differences in individual physiological responses between females, major and minor males suggest that females were more resistant to desiccation than minors and majors, but these responses were species‐dependent. Our analysis at two hierarchical levels, individual and population, emphasizes the importance of considering within‐species variability in predictions of how species may respond to future climatic conditions. Predictions of the responses of species to environmental change may produce different conclusions if they rely on observations from single populations or take into account only a limited range of phenotypes per population.
Immunological role of keratinocytes in leishmaniasis
Authors: Jafarzadeh Abdollah , Nair Arathi , Jafarzadeh Sara , Nemati Maryam , Sharifi Iraj , Saha Bhaskar
Published: May 2021

Following inoculation of Leishmania, a protozoan parasite, into the skin of a mammal, the epidermal keratinocytes recognize the parasite and influence the local immune response that can give rise to different outcomes of leishmaniasis. The early keratinocyte‐derived cytokines and keratinocytes‐T cells interactions shape the anti‐leishmanial immune responses that contribute to the resistance or susceptibility to leishmaniasis. The keratinocyte‐derived cytokines can directly potentiate the leishmanicidal activity of monocytes and macrophages. As keratinocytes express MHC‐II and enhance the expression of costimulatory molecules, these cells act as antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) in cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). Depending on the epidermal microenvironment, the keratinocytes induce various types of effector CD4+ T cells. Keratinocyte apoptosis and necrosis have been also implicated in ulceration in CL. Further, keratinocytes contribute to the healing of Leishmania‐related cutaneous wounds. However, keratinocyte‐derived IL‐10 may play a key role in the development of post‐kala‐azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL). In this review, a comprehensive discussion regarding the multiple roles played by keratinocytes during leishmaniasis was provided, while highlighting novel insights concerning the immunological and pathological roles of these cells.
Sources of resistance to Pseudocercospora fijiensis, the cause of black Sigatoka in banana
Authors: Kimunye Janet , Were Evans , Swennen Rony , Viljoen Altus , Mahuku George
Published: May 2021

Black Sigatoka, caused by Pseudocercospora fijiensis, is one of the most devastating diseases of banana. In commercial banana‐growing systems, black Sigatoka is primarily managed by fungicides. This mode of disease management is not feasible for resource‐limited smallholder farmers. Therefore, bananas resistant to P. fijiensis provide a practical solution for managing the disease, especially under smallholder farming systems. Most banana and plantain hybrids with resistance to P. fijiensis were developed using few sources of resistance, which include Calcutta 4 and Pisang Lilin. To broaden the pool of resistance sources to P. fijiensis, 95 banana accessions were evaluated under field conditions in Sendusu, Uganda. Eleven accessions were resistant to P. fijiensis. Black Sigatoka symptoms did not progress past Stage 2 (narrow brown streaks) in the diploid accessions Pahang (AA), Pisang KRA (AA), Malaccensis 0074 (AA), Long Tavoy (AA), M.A. Truncata (AA), Tani (BB), and Balbisiana (BB), a response similar to the resistant control Calcutta 4. These accessions are potential sources of P. fijiensis resistance and banana breeding programmes can use them to broaden the genetic base for resistance to P. fijiensis.
Human ecological analysis of farmers’ pro‐environmental behaviour in the face of drought: Application of Norm Activation Theory
Authors: Hallaj Zeynab , Sadighi Hassan , Farhadian Homayoun , Bijani Masoud
Published: May 2021

This study aims to investigate farmers’ pro‐environmental behaviour (FPB) under drought conditions. The epistemological perspective of the study was centred on human ecology and Norm Activation Theory (NAT). The study was designed as descriptive‐correlational research of causal relationships and was conducted using the survey method. The statistical population includes farmers who live around Lake Hamoun on the Iran‐Afghan border in the Sistan region. With NAT serving as the basis, the causal chain model of the impact of awareness of consequences, ascription of responsibility, subjective norms and personal norms on FPB was presented and tested. The proposed causal model is able to explain 34% of changes in FPB. The results of this study highlight the need for special attention to the fundamental changes that must be made in the environmental views of farmers as the most important stakeholders of water resources under drought conditions.
A framework for drinking water basin protection
Authors: Özdemir Ayfer
Published: May 2021

Many countries have applied many measures, including preventing inappropriate activities in areas where drinking water is abstracted to protect drinking water resources. However, reaching good water quality based on human health has not been achieved in drinking water basins. Drinking‐Water Protected Areas Determination has been defined as a powerful protection method to restrict inappropriate activities affecting water quality and quantity. These areas are determined based on basin properties to provide sustainable drinking water management. This study aims to present a framework for drinking water protection by giving methodological study steps. Strengths, deficiencies and inadequacies in drinking water protection practices were shown by examining the implementations of Turkey and European Union member countries. Thus, by adding new methods to these applications, a standard approach was created to be applied to each different drinking water basin.
Absence of genetic differentiation in performance traits of Sinapis arvensis populations from crop and non‐crop habitats across Northern Algeria: Implications for management
Authors: Benchaa Sara , Bouchemousse Sarah , Abdelkrim Hacène , Müller‐Schärer Heinz
Published: May 2021

Weeds can originate from adjacent habitats, dispersing naturally from non‐crop habitats as well as brought in from other crop fields by machinery or as contaminants of crop seeds. This constant dispersal may homogenise populations and transmit resistance genes. In this study, we examined (a) the genetic variation in quantitative traits and (b) the level of resistance to two widely used herbicides, amidosulfuron + iodosulfuron‐methyl‐sodium and florasulam + 2,4‐D, in eight population pairs of Sinapis arvensis from crop and adjacent non‐crop habitats across eight regions in Northern Algeria. Our quantitative genetic approach on phenotypic and phenological data of plants grown under controlled conditions from seeds of these populations showed similar levels of within‐population genetic variation and no genetic differentiation in quantitative traits between the two habitat types. This points to an important exchange of S. arvensis seeds and/or pollen between the two habitat types, but not among crop fields at the regional scale, as we found a strong regional effect for most of the plant traits for both habitat types that correlated with longitudinal temperature and precipitation gradients. We also found an absence of resistance against the two herbicides at a detection level of 10%. Florasulam + 2,4‐D showed a higher level and speed of phytotoxicity compared to amidosulfuron + iodosulfuron‐methyl‐sodium. Given our findings, we propose measures for more efficient management of S. arvensis, including minimisation of seed dispersal during transport of straw balls, crop rotation to avoid the build‐up of herbicide resistance, and management of populations in the close vicinity of crop fields.
Sound source localization using multiple circular microphone arrays based on harmonic analysis
Authors: Han Xinyu , Wu Ming , Han Zerui , Yang Jun
Published: May 2021

This paper proposes a multiple signal classification (MUSIC) framework for direction-of-arrival estimation by combining multiple circular arrays in the circular-harmonics domain. We jointly transform the received signals of all sub-arrays into the circular harmonics domain to generate a set of sound field coefficients containing the direction information of the sound sources. These coefficients are then formulated in a form in which MUSIC algorithm can be applied. Compared with the conventional circular-harmonics-domain localization methods, which are based on a single circular array, the proposed method can provide sufficient spatial resolution over different frequency ranges by adjusting the distribution of sub-arrays. Furthermore, the mean square error of the estimated sound field coefficients is derived for guiding this adjustment. Numerical simulation results indicate that a reasonable distribution of sub-arrays can effectively avoid the performance degradation caused by the zeros of Bessel functions, which is an inherent problem of the modal array signal processing. Simulation and experimental results with different configuration parameters demonstrate that the proposed method provides a better localization performance compared to the state-of-the-art methods.
Linearly-implicit schemes for collisions in musical acoustics based on energy quadratisation
Authors: Ducceschi Michele , Bilbao Stefan , Willemsen Silvin , Serafin Stefania
Published: May 2021

Collision modelling represents an active field of research in musical acoustics. Common examples of collisions include the hammer-string interaction in the piano, the interaction of strings with fretboards and fingers, the membrane-wire interaction in the snare drum, reed-beating effects in wind instruments, and others. At the modelling level, many current approaches make use of conservative potentials in the form of power-laws, and discretisations proposed for such models rely in all cases on iterative root-finding routines. Here, a method based on energy quadratisation of the nonlinear collision potential is proposed. It is shown that there exists a suitable discretisation of such a model that may be resolved in a single iteration, while guaranteeing stability via energy conservation. Applications to the case of lumped as well as fully distributed systems will be given, using both finite-difference and modal methods.
Universal scaling and characterization of gelation in associative polymer solutions
Authors: Santra Aritra , Dünweg B. , Ravi Prakash J.
Published: May 2021

A multiparticle Brownian dynamics simulation algorithm with a Soddemann–Dünweg–Kremer potential that accounts for pairwise excluded volume interactions between both backbone monomers and associating groups (stickers) on a chain is used to describe the static behavior of associative polymer solutions, across a range of concentrations into the semidilute unentangled regime. Predictions for the fractions of stickers bound by intrachain and interchain associations, as a function of system parameters such as the number of stickers on a chain, the number of backbone monomers between stickers, the solvent quality, and monomer concentration, are obtained. A systematic comparison between simulation results and scaling relations predicted by the mean-field theory of Dobrynin [Macromolecules 37, 3881–3893 (2004)] is carried out. Different regimes of scaling behavior are identified by the theory depending on the monomer concentration, the density of stickers on a chain, and whether the solvent quality for the backbone monomers corresponds to θ or good solvent conditions. Simulation results validate the predictions of the mean-field theory across a wide range of parameter values in all the scaling regimes. The value of the des Cloizeaux exponent, θ2=1/3, proposed by Dobrynin for sticky polymer solutions, is shown to lead to a collapse of simulation data for all the scaling relations considered here. Three different signatures for the characterization of gelation are identified, with each leading to a different value of the concentration at the solgel transition. The Flory–Stockmayer expression relating the degree of interchain conversion at the solgel transition to the number of stickers on a chain, modified by Dobrynin to account for the presence of intrachain associations, is found to be validated by simulations for all three gelation signatures. Simulation results confirm the prediction of scaling theory for the gelation line that separates sol and gel phases, when the modified Flory–Stockmayer expression is used. Phase separation is found to occur with increasing concentration for systems in which the backbone monomers are under θ-solvent conditions and is shown to coincide with a breakdown in the predictions of scaling theory.
Effects of Physically Active Lessons on Movement Behaviors, Cognitive, and Academic Performance in Elementary Schoolchildren: ERGUER/Aracaju Project
Authors: Barboza Luciana L.S. , Schmitz Heike , Tejada Julian , Silva Ellen Caroline M. , Oliveira Advanusia S.S. , B. Sardinha Luís , Silva Danilo R.
Published: May 2021

Background: To evaluate the effects of the introduction of physically active lessons on movement behaviors, cognitive, and academic performance in schoolchildren. Methods: This was a cluster-controlled trial. A total of 61 students from the second year of elementary school in a public school in Brazil made up 2 intervention classes (n = 34) with the introduction of physically active lessons and 2 control classes (n = 27). Sedentary behavior, physical activity, cognitive, and academic performance were evaluated in 3 moments, which were compared using models of generalized estimating equations. Results: The intervention was effective for reducing the standing time between the baseline and 3 months while increasing the walking time between baseline and 3 months and baseline and 9 months. There was a reduction in time in stationary activities and increased time in light physical activities between all moments. The intervention group increased their performance in the go/no go test, showing a smaller number of errors between the baseline and 3 months and baseline and 9 months, and a reduction in the test time between baseline and 3 months. No impact on students’ academic performance was observed. Conclusion: Physically active lessons improve movement behaviors and cognitive functions among elementary schoolchildren.
Bioavailability of Single-Dose SUBA-Itraconazole Compared to Conventional Itraconazole under Fasted and Fed Conditions
Authors: Rauseo Adriana M. , Mazi Patrick , Lewis Phoebe , Burnett Bruce , Mudge Stuart , Spec Andrej
Published: May 2021

Conventional itraconazole (C-ITZ) suffers from absorption variability. SUBA-itraconazole (S-ITZ) is more bioavailable than C-ITZ at steady-state in a fed condition, but there are no data comparing the two under a fasted state.
Challenges and Opportunities in Understanding Genetics of Fungal Diseases: Towards a Functional Genomics Approach
Authors: Bruno Mariolina , Matzaraki Vasiliki , van de Veerdonk Frank L. , Kumar Vinod , Netea Mihai G.
Published: May 2021

Infectious diseases are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and human pathogens have long been recognized as one of the main sources of evolutionary pressure, resulting in a high variable genetic background in immune-related genes. The study of the genetic contribution to infectious diseases has undergone tremendous advances over the last decades.
Roles of Eicosanoids in Regulating Inflammation and Neutrophil Migration as an Innate Host Response to Bacterial Infections
Authors: Sheppe Austin E. F. , Edelmann Mariola J.
Published: May 2021

Eicosanoids are lipid-based signaling molecules that play a unique role in innate immune responses. The multiple types of eicosanoids, such as prostaglandins (PGs) and leukotrienes (LTs), allow the innate immune cells to respond rapidly to bacterial invaders.
Hypoxia-Inducible Factor Signaling in Macrophages Promotes Lymphangiogenesis in Leishmania major Infection
Authors: Bowlin Anne , Roys Hayden , Wanjala Humphrey , Bettadapura Manjunath , Venugopal Gopinath , Surma Jessica , Simon M. Celeste , Weinkopff Tiffany
Published: May 2021

Vascular remodeling is a phenomenon seen in the cutaneous lesions formed during infection with
Leishmania
parasites. Within the lesion,
Leishmania major
infection leads to the infiltration of inflammatory cells, including macrophages, and is associated with hypoxic conditions and lymphangiogenesis in the local site.
The Trypanosome UDP-Glucose Pyrophosphorylase Is Imported by Piggybacking into Glycosomes, Where Unconventional Sugar Nucleotide Synthesis Takes Place
Authors: Villafraz Oriana , Baudouin Hélène , Mazet Muriel , Kulyk Hanna , Dupuy Jean-William , Pineda Erika , Botté Cyrille , Inaoka Daniel Ken , Portais Jean-Charles , Bringaud Frédéric
Published: May 2021

Unusual compartmentalization of metabolic pathways within organelles is one of the most enigmatic features of trypanosomatids. These unicellular eukaryotes are the only organisms that sequestered glycolysis inside peroxisomes (glycosomes), although the selective advantage of this compartmentalization is still not clear.
Ser/Thr Kinase-Dependent Phosphorylation of the Peptidoglycan Hydrolase CwlA Controls Its Export and Modulates Cell Division in Clostridioides difficile
Authors: Garcia-Garcia Transito , Poncet Sandrine , Cuenot Elodie , Douché Thibaut , Giai Gianetto Quentin , Peltier Johann , Courtin Pascal , Chapot-Chartier Marie-Pierre , Matondo Mariette , Dupuy Bruno , Candela Thomas , Martin-Verstraete Isabelle
Published: May 2021

Bacterial cells are encased in a PG exoskeleton that helps to maintain cell shape and confers physical protection. To allow bacterial growth and cell separation, PG needs to be continuously remodeled by hydrolytic enzymes that cleave PG at critical sites.
Outer Membrane Vesicles of Vibrio cholerae Protect and Deliver Active Cholera Toxin to Host Cells via Porin-Dependent Uptake
Authors: Zingl Franz G. , Thapa Himadri B. , Scharf Martina , Kohl Paul , Müller Anna M. , Schild Stefan
Published: May 2021

Cholera is still a massive global health burden because it causes large outbreaks with millions of infections and thousands of deaths every year. Several studies have contributed to the knowledge of this pathogen, although key parts are still missing.