bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the soil microbe community‐level physiological profile using EcoPlate and soil properties at 33 forest sites across Japan
Authors: Nakamura Masahiro , Terada Chisato , Ito Kinya , Matsui Kazuaki , Niwa Shigeru , Ishihara Masae , Kenta Tanaka , Yoshikawa Tetsuro , Kadoya Taku , Hiura Tsutom , Muraoka Hiroyuki , Ishida Ken , Agetsuma Naoki , Nakamura Ryosuke , Sakio Hitoshi , Takagi Masahiro , Mori Akira S. , Kimura Megumi K. , Kurokawa Hiroko , Enoki Tsutomu , Seino Tatsuyuki , Takashima Atsushi , Kobayashi Hajime , Matsumoto Kazuho , Takahashi Koichi , Tateno Ryunosuke , Yoshida Tomohiro , Nakaji Tatsuro , Maki Masayuki , Kobayashi Kazutaka , Fukuzawa Karibu , Hoshizaki Kazuhiko , Ohta Kazuhide , Kobayashi Keito , Hasegawa Motohiro , Suzuki Satoshi N. , Sakimoto Michinori , Kitagawa Yoichiro , Sakai Akiko , Kondo Hirofumi , Ichie Tomoaki , Kageyama Koji , Hieno Ayaka , Kato Shogo , Otani Tatsuya , Utsumi Yasuhiro , Kume Tomonori , Homma Kosuke , Kishimoto Koju , Masaka Kazuhiko , Watanabe Kenta , Toda Motomu , Nagamatsu Dai , Miyazaki Yuko , Yamashita Tamon , Tokuchi Naoko
Published: February 2022

We present the largest freely available EcoPlate dataset for Japan, comprising data collected from a network of 33 natural forest sites (77 plots) in regions of East Asia ranging from cool temperate to subtropical. EcoPlate is a 96‐well microplate that contains three repeated sets of 31 response wells with different sole carbon substrates. The utilization of each carbon substrate by the microbial community is quantified by the color density of the well during incubation. EcoPlate can provide a multifunctional index of a soil microbial community. Soil properties (water content, carbon [C] and nitrogen [N] contents, the C/N ratio, and pH) that are essential for interpreting the EcoPlate results were also measured. The network is part of the Forest and Grassland Survey of the Monitoring Sites 1000 Project established by the Ministry of the Environment. Using a standardized protocol, soil was sampled between September and December 2020. A preliminary principal component analysis was performed on the temporal integration of color density using 31 substrates. For the temporal integration, we calculated the cumulative amount of color development by integrating the color density development curve. PC1 contributed 55.6% and is thought to represent the magnitude of the overall absorbance of all substrates. The model of environmental factors including elevation and the model of soil properties, including water content and pH, were selected as the best‐fit models for variation in PC1. EcoPlate data enable the meta‐analysis of comparative studies among forest types and testing community ecology and ecosystem function hypotheses at broad spatial scales. The complete data set for this abstract published in the Data Paper section of the journal is available in electronic format in MetaCat in JaLTER at http://db.cger.nies.go.jp/JaLTER/metacat/metacat/ERDP‐2022‐01.1/jalter‐en.
Genotypic and phenotypic characterization of hydrogenotrophic denitrifiers
Authors: Duffner Clara , Kublik Susanne , Fösel Bärbel , Frostegård Åsa , Schloter Michael , Bakken Lars , Schulz Stefanie
Published: February 2022

Stimulating litho‐autotrophic denitrification in aquifers with hydrogen is a promising strategy to remove excess NO3−, but it often entails accumulation of the cytotoxic intermediate NO2− and the greenhouse gas N2O. To explore if these high NO2− and N2O concentrations are caused by differences in the genomic composition, the regulation of gene transcription or the kinetics of the reductases involved, we isolated hydrogenotrophic denitrifiers from a polluted aquifer, performed whole‐genome sequencing and investigated their phenotypes. We therefore assessed the kinetics of NO2−, NO, N2O, N2 and O2 as they depleted O2 and transitioned to denitrification with NO3− as the only electron acceptor and hydrogen as the electron donor. Isolates with a complete denitrification pathway, although differing intermediate accumulation, were closely related to Dechloromonas denitrificans, Ferribacterium limneticum or Hydrogenophaga taeniospiralis. High NO2− accumulation was associated with the reductases' kinetics. While available, electrons only flowed towards NO3− in the narG‐containing H. taeniospiralis but flowed concurrently to all denitrification intermediates in the napA‐containing D. denitrificans and F. limneticum. The denitrification regulator RegAB, present in the napA strains, may further secure low intermediate accumulation. High N2O accumulation only occurred during the transition to denitrification and is thus likely caused by delayed N2O reductase expression.
Membrane adaptation in the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus relies upon a novel strategy involving glycerol monoalkyl glycerol tetraether lipids
Authors: Tourte Maxime , Schaeffer Philippe , Grossi Vincent , Oger Philippe M.
Published: February 2022

Microbes preserve membrane functionality under fluctuating environmental conditions by modulating their membrane lipid composition. Although several studies have documented membrane adaptations in Archaea, the influence of most biotic and abiotic factors on archaeal lipid compositions remains underexplored. Here, we studied the influence of temperature, pH, salinity, the presence/absence of elemental sulfur, the carbon source and the genetic background on the lipid core composition of the hyperthermophilic neutrophilic marine archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus. Every growth parameter tested affected the lipid core composition to some extent, the carbon source and the genetic background having the greatest influence. Surprisingly, P. furiosus appeared to only marginally rely on the two major responses implemented by Archaea, i.e. the regulation of the ratio of diether to tetraether lipids and that of the number of cyclopentane rings in tetraethers. Instead, this species increased the ratio of glycerol monoalkyl glycerol tetraethers (GMGT, aka. H‐shaped tetraethers) to glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers in response to decreasing temperature and pH and increasing salinity, thus providing for the first time evidence of adaptive functions for GMGT. Besides P. furiosus, numerous other species synthesize significant proportions of GMGT, which suggests that this unprecedented adaptive strategy might be common in Archaea.
Oil dependence and access to water and sanitation in African countries: Does the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative matter?
Authors: Tadadjeu Sosson , Njangang Henri , Ningaye Paul , Nourou Mohammadou
Published: February 2022

This paper investigates the effect of oil dependence on access to water and sanitation in 49 African countries, with data covering the period 1996–2015. Additionally, it investigates as a first attempt how the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) affects the relationship between oil dependence and access to water and sanitation. Using the two‐step system generalized method of moments, the results show that oil dependence is negatively associated with access to water and sanitation, both for the total population and urban and rural populations, respectively. Considering the difference between oil abundance and oil dependence, we find that both oil abundance and oil dependence are negatively associated with access to water and sanitation. Finally, the results illustrate that the EITI mitigates the negative effect of oil dependence on access to water and sanitation in resources rich African countries.
Incidental researchers: Investigating islands from the inside out
Authors: Teasdale Jennifer I , Teasdale G Robert
Published: February 2022

This commentary describes the experience of two researchers who have chosen to move permanently to a small island and become fully involved in its social, cultural, economic, political, and intellectual life. Describing themselves as incidental researchers, the commentary outlines their research approaches and methodologies. The research is variously longitudinal, historical, interdisciplinary, ethnographic, intergenerational, and comparative. It uses a wide variety of techniques, both singly and in combination, including journaling and record keeping, observation, social networking, narrative and art, interviews, documentary analysis, and more. The challenge of maintaining objectivity is addressed. Real‐life examples are provided. As independent researchers, free from institutional constraints, we seek holistic engagement that benefits individuals and groups within our island community and adds to the growing body of knowledge about islands and islandness.
Repositioning and market power after airline mergers
Authors: Li Sophia , Mazur Joe , Park Yongjoon , Roberts James , Sweeting Andrew , Zhang Jun
Published: February 2022

We estimate a model of route‐level competition between airlines who choose whether to offer nonstop or connecting service before setting prices. Airlines have full information about all quality, marginal cost, and fixed cost unobservables throughout the game, so that service choices will be selected on these residuals. We conduct merger simulations that allow for repositioning and account for the selection implied by the model and the data. Accounting for selection materially affects the predicted likelihood of repositioning and the predicted magnitude of post‐merger price changes, and it allows us to match what has been observed after consummated mergers.
Influence of Society for Academic Emergency Medicine Foundation's Research Training Grant on postaward academic federal funding
Authors: Chang Andrew K. , Lee Sangil , Le Rachel , Ata Ashar , Harland Kari , Khan Ayesha , McMillan Melissa , Mohr Nick ,   Academic Emergency Medicine Grants Committee
Published: February 2022

Objectives

The objective was to measure the impact of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine Foundation's (SAEMF) Research Training Grant (RTG) by comparing academic success in grant recipients versus non‐recipient applicants. Our primary outcome was subsequent federal funding as a principal investigator (PI) or multiple principal investigator (MPI). Our secondary outcomes included subsequent K‐award funding, R‐series funding, R01 funding, and academic productivity measured by first author peer‐reviewed publications.

Methods

The authors examined all SAEMF RTG applicants from 2002 through 2019 (n = 109). Data were collected using the National Institutes of Health RePORTER database, a literature search using PubMed, and an online survey sent to all RTG applicants. Relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated.

Results

Over 18 years, 18 of 109 (16.5%) RTG applicants were awarded by SAEMF. Subsequent federal funding as PI or MPI was obtained by 11 of the 18 RTG recipients compared to 29 of the 91 nonrecipients (61% vs. 33%, RR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.2–3.1). The RTG award was also associated with increased probability of receiving a federal Career Development Award (K‐series) (RR 2.0; 95% CI 1.1–3.9) and R‐series award (RR 2.0; 95% CI 1.1–3.9) but not an R01 award (RR 2.1; 95% CI 0.8–5.3). The median number of first‐authored peer reviewed manuscripts did not differ between RTG award recipients (14, IQR 8,44) and nonrecipients (14, IQR 6,30) (p = 0.5) though RTG recipients had a higher percentage of their publications as a first author (49% vs. 33%, p = 0.04).

Conclusions

SAEMF RTG awards were associated with increased probability of future federal funding, including career development awards and R‐series awards but not R01 awards. RTG recipients also had a higher percentage of their peer reviewed publications as first author.
Association of the native parasitic nematode Deladenus proximus with individuals and populations of the native woodwasp Sirex nigricornis
Authors: van Nouhuys Saskya , Harris David C. , Stephen Fred M. , Galligan Larry D. , Hajek Ann E.
Published: February 2022

Parasitic stages of the North American native dimorphic nematode Deladenus proximus develop within larvae of the native North American siricid Sirex nigricornis and sterilize many of the eggs in adult females. Sirex nigricornis were reared from felled trees or trapped in Arkansas and Louisiana in 2017–2019 and parasitism by D. proximus was evaluated.

Deladenus proximus parasitized 0.16–0.43 of S. nigricornis individuals, among sites and years. Parasitized males were smaller than healthy males, and more males were parasitized than females emerging from the same trees.

Rate of parasitism increased with increasing S. nigricornis density per tree, and, as per tree density increased, so did the proportion that was male.

Egg sterilization (woodwasp eggs killed and inhabited by nematodes) was partial, with an average proportion of 0.66–0.88 woodwasp eggs sterilized by D. proximus per female S. nigricornis, differing significantly by site. As the numbers of eggs in a female increased, the proportion of eggs sterilized declined.

Comparing data from this study with others, a trend is reported for variable levels of egg sterilization in Sirex females, with 0 or 100% sterilization often occurring in novel host/parasite associations and partial (averages between 50% and 100%) sterilization occurring when host/parasite associations have co‐evolved.
Governing beyond capacity
Authors: CHAHIM DEAN
Published: February 2022

How are disasters made into routine, even banal parts of everyday life? In Mexico City the spatiality and temporality of disasters have become an object of dynamic governmental manipulation. The city's water engineers use a vast drainage tunnel system to strategically transform what would otherwise be catastrophic flooding of the city center into a slow‐moving, spatially diffuse, and ultimately routine environmental problem for the poor on the urban periphery. Furthermore, to prevent unrest, the engineers deliberately modulate flooding within the thresholds of what populations can perceive and bear. This technopolitical work, which I callcalibration, has emerged as a crucial means of governing beyond capacity, of maintaining social control even amid the unfolding of a disaster that has exceeded a government's capacity to prepare for or prevent. [disaster,government,engineering,infrastructure,flooding,water,space,temporality,Mexico]
A 2‐year prospective clinical and bone density evaluation, with a subset undergoing radiostereometric analysis, using the Absolut cemented stem
Authors: Ebert Jay R. , Nivbrant Nils O. , Petrov Victoria , Yates Piers , Wood David J.
Published: February 2022

Background

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is common though the investigation of new prostheses requires a practical, step‐wise introduction. This study reports the 2‐year clinical results and periprosthetic bone mineral density (BMD) changes, along with a subset undergoing Radiostereometric analysis (RSA), in patients undergoing primary cemented THA using a new highly polished, double tapered, collarless femoral stem (Absolut).

Methods

Between August 2013 and December 2016, 47 patients with a mean age of 74.2 years (range 36–89) underwent 51 THAs with the Absolut. All patients underwent clinical assessment pre‐surgery and at 6 weeks, 3, 12 and 24 months using the Oxford and Harris Hip Scores, as well as Dual Energy X‐ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) to assess BMD within 2–4 weeks post‐surgery, 12 and 24 months. RSA was undertaken in a patient subset (the first n = 30) early post‐surgery (1–2 days) and 3, 12 and 24 months.

Results

All clinical scores significantly improved (p < 0.05). RSA revealed a mean subsidence of 0.78 mm at 3 months, 1.23 mm at 12 months and 1.51 mm at 24 months. Anterior–posterior and medial‐lateral translation was negligible. A significant increase (p = 0.020) in BMD was observed in Gruen zone 1, though no significant changes were observed for any other zone up until 2 years. Two patients acquired an early post‐operative deep vein thrombosis that were treated accordingly and resolved, with no further complications or re‐operations.

Conclusion

The Absolut cemented femoral stem demonstrated good outcomes, BMD changes consistent with sound prosthesis integration and patterns of post‐operative micromotion observed in other successful cemented stems.
Efficient estimation of partially linear tail index models using B‐splines
Authors: Ma Yaolan , Wei Bo
Published: February 2022

The tail index is an important parameter in extreme value theory. In this paper, we consider a simple yet flexible spline estimation method for partially linear tail index models. We approximate the unknown function by B‐splines and construct an approximate log‐likelihood function to estimate the coefficients of the linear covariates and the B‐spline basis functions. Consistency and asymptotic normality of the estimators are established. Subsequently, the proposed method is illustrated by using simulations and applications to the Fremantle annual maximum sea levels data and Chicago air pollution data.
Properties of the affine‐invariant ensemble sampler's ‘stretch move’ in high dimensions
Authors: Huijser David , Goodman Jesse , Brewer Brendon J.
Published: February 2022

We present theoretical and practical properties of the affine‐invariant ensemble sampler Markov Chain Monte Carlo method. In high dimensions, the sampler's ‘stretch move’ has unusual and undesirable properties. We demonstrate this with an n‐dimensional correlated Gaussian toy problem with a known mean and covariance structure, and a multivariate version of the Rosenbrock problem. Visual inspection of a trace plots suggests the burn‐in period is short. Upon closer inspection, we discover the mean and the variance of the target distribution do not match the known values, and the chain takes a very long time to converge. This problem becomes severe as n increases beyond 50. We also applied different diagnostics adapted to be applicable to ensemble methods to determine any lack of convergence. The diagnostics include the Gelman–Rubin method, the Heidelberger–Welch test, the integrated autocorrelation and the acceptance rate. The trace plot of individual walkers appears to be useful as well. We therefore conclude that the stretch move should be used with caution in moderate to high dimensions. We also present some heuristic results explaining this behaviour.
Laparoscopic resection for imatinib‐resistant recurrent tumors of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors: A case report
Authors: Sekiguchi Naoko , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Nakajima Kiyokazu , Kurokawa Yukinori , Saito Takuro , Yamamoto Kazuyoshi , Yamashita Kotarou , Tanaka Koji , Makino Tomoki , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Doki Yuichiro
Published: February 2022

An 82‐year‐old woman underwent laparoscopic partial gastrectomy for fundal gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) in a previous hospital. She visited our hospital for the treatment of recurrence, because two nodules, one each on the gastric suture line and in the peritoneum of the left diaphragm, were pointed out. Imatinib therapy was immediately initiated, and the size of both nodules decreased. However, the one on the gastric suture line showed regrowth after 4 years, which was eventually diagnosed as imatinib‐resistant GIST. Hence, laparoscopic partial gastrectomy with peritoneal imatinib‐sensitive nodule resection was subsequently performed. Pathologically, the nodule on the gastric suture line was confirmed as a GIST, whereas the other was diagnosed as a hyaline‐degenerated GIST. Surgical intervention for imatinib‐resistant GISTs has been reported to improve the outcomes of recurrent GISTs. Laparoscopic resection of localized imatinib‐resistant GISTs could safely and less invasively be performed in this case; however, caution should be paid to the indication of the approach.
Can nebulised HepArin Reduce morTality and time to Extubation in patients with COVID‐19 Requiring invasive ventilation Meta‐Trial (CHARTER‐MT): Protocol and statistical analysis plan for an investigator‐initiated international meta‐trial of prospective randomised clinical studies
Authors: van Haren Frank M. P. , Laffey John G. , Artigas Antonio , Page Clive , Schultz Marcus J. , Cosgrave David , McNicholas Bairbre , Smoot Thomas L. , Nunes Quentin , Richardson Alice , Yoon Hwan‐Jin , van Loon Lex M. , Ghosh Angajendra , Said Simone , Panwar Rakshit , Smith Roger , Santamaria John D. , Dixon Barry ,   CHARTER Collaborative Research Group
Published: February 2022

There is significant interest in the potential for nebulised unfractionated heparin (UFH), as a novel therapy for patients with COVID‐19 induced acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure requiring invasive ventilation. The scientific and biological rationale for nebulised heparin stems from the evidence for extensive activation of coagulation resulting in pulmonary microvascular thrombosis in COVID‐19 pneumonia. Nebulised delivery of heparin to the lung may limit alveolar fibrin deposition and thereby limit progression of lung injury. Importantly, laboratory studies show that heparin can directly inactivate the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus, thereby prevent its entry into and infection of mammalian cells. UFH has additional anti‐inflammatory and mucolytic properties that may be useful in this context.

Methods and intervention

The Can nebulised HepArin Reduce morTality and time to Extubation in Patients with COVID‐19 Requiring invasive ventilation Meta‐Trial (CHARTER‐MT) is a collaborative prospective individual patient data analysis of on‐going randomised controlled clinical trials across several countries in five continents, examining the effects of inhaled heparin in patients with COVID‐19 requiring invasive ventilation on various endpoints.

Each constituent study will randomise patients with COVID‐19 induced respiratory failure requiring invasive ventilation. Patients are randomised to receive nebulised heparin or standard care (open label studies) or placebo (blinded placebo‐controlled studies) while under invasive ventilation. Each participating study collect a pre‐defined minimum dataset. The primary outcome for the meta‐trial is the number of ventilator‐free days up to day 28 day, defined as days alive and free from invasive ventilation.
Impact of conditioning regimen intensity on the outcomes of peripheral T‐cell lymphoma, anaplastic large cell lymphoma and angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma patients undergoing allogeneic transplant
Authors: Savani Malvi , Ahn Kwang W. , Chen Yue , Ahmed Sairah , Cashen Amanda F. , Shadman Mazyar , Modi Dipenkumar , Khimani Farhad , Cutler Corey S. , Zain Jasmine , Brammer Jonathan E. , Rezvani Andrew R. , Fenske Timothy S. , Sauter Craig S. , Kharfan‐Dabaja Mohamed A. , Herrera Alex F. , Hamadani Mehdi
Published: February 2022

There have been no large studies comparing reduced‐intensity/non‐myeloablative conditioning (RIC/NMA) to myeloablative conditioning (MAC) regimens in T‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (T‐NHL) patients undergoing allogeneic transplant (allo‐HCT). A total of 803 adults with peripheral T‐cell lymphoma, anaplastic large cell lymphoma and angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma (age 18–65 years), undergoing allo‐HCT between 2008–2019 and reported to the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research with either MAC (n = 258) or RIC/NMA regimens (n = 545) were evaluated. There were no significant differences between the two cohorts in terms of patient sex, race and performance scores. Significantly more patients in the RIC/NMA cohort had peripheral blood grafts, haematopoietic cell transplantation‐specific comorbidity index (HCT‐CI) of ≥3 and chemosensitive disease compared to the MAC cohort. On multivariate analysis, overall survival (OS) was not significantly different in the RIC/NMA cohort compared to the MAC cohort (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.01, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.79–1.29; p = 0.95). Similarly, non‐relapse mortality (NRM) (HR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.61–1.19; p = 0.34), risk of progression/relapse (HR = 1.29; 95% CI = 0.98–1.70; p = 0.07) and therapy failure (HR = 1.14; 95% CI = 0.92–1.41, p = 0.23) were not significantly different between the two cohorts. Relative to MAC, RIC/NMA was associated with a significantly lower risk of grade 3–4 acute graft‐versus‐host disease (HR = 0.67; 95% CI = 0.46–0.99, p = 0.04). Among chemorefractory patients, there was no difference in OS, therapy failure, relapse, or NRM between RIC/NMA and MAC regimens. In conclusion, we found no association between conditioning intensity and outcomes after allo‐HCT for T‐cell NHL.
Macroeconomic policy coordination and the European business cycle: Accounting for model uncertainty and reverse causality
Authors: Beck Krzysztof
Published: February 2022

This study established the relationship between macroeconomic policy coordination and business cycle synchronization, considering a dynamic panel framework that accounts for model uncertainty and reverse causality. The results show that uncoordinated fiscal policy is a source of idiosyncratic shocks, but coordinated monetary policy leads to business cycle divergence. Furthermore, ongoing monetary integration is going to be associated with lower business cycle synchronization. Establishing fiscal union can mitigate this effect by eliminating a source of asymmetric shocks associated with fiscal policy differences, and provide a substitute for independent monetary policy in the form of interregional transfers.
Ethnic differences in serum testosterone concentration among Malay, Chinese and Indian men: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Rajandram Retnagowri , Koong Jun K. , Quek Kia F. , Lee Eng G. , Razack Azad H. A. , Kuppusamy Shanggar
Published: February 2022

Objective

To investigate non‐urological patients with multiple comorbidities for factors contributing towards differences in testosterone concentration in multiethnic Malaysian men.

Design

An observational study.

Patients

Sexually active men, ≥40 years, with no known urological problems, were recruited at the phlebotomy clinic at our centre.

Measurements

A brief history along with latest fasting lipid profile and plasma glucose levels were obtained. An Aging Male Symptoms questionnaire was administered; waist circumference (WC) and serum testosterone concentration were measured.

Statstical Analysis

Analysis of testosterone concentration between Malay, Indian and Chinese men was performed. Statistical tests such as analysis of variance, χ2 test, univariate and multivariable regression were performed. Any p < .05 was noted as statistically significant.

Results

Among the 604 participants analysed, mean testosterone concentration was significantly lower in Malays (15.1 ± 5.9 nmol/L) compared to the Chinese (17.0 ± 5.9 nmol/L) and Indian (16.1 ± 6.5 nmol/L) participants. The mean WC was also found to be higher among the Malays (96.1 ± 10.9 cm) compared to Chinese (92.6 ± 9.6 cm) and Indians (95.6 ± 9.9 cm). Testosterone concentration tended to be lower with higher age, but this was not statistically significant (p > .05). In the multivariable analysis only Malay ethnicity, WC ≥ 90 cm and low high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) were associated with lower testosterone concentration.

Conclusion

In this study, Malaysian men of Malay origin had lower testosterone concentration compared with Indian and Chinese men. WC and low HDL were also associated with lower testosterone concentrations.
Similar species, different fates: Abundance dynamics in spatially structured populations of common and threatened frogs
Authors: Dalpasso Andrea , Ficetola Gentile Francesco , Giachello Simone , Lo Parrino Elia , Manenti Raoul , Muraro Martina , Falaschi Mattia
Published: February 2022

Aim

Understanding which factors determine the variation in population size across space and time is crucial to plan sound conservation interventions. Amphibians are often characterized by large demographic changes, therefore a better understanding of factors driving these changes could help mitigate their global crisis. We investigated drivers of abundance dynamics of two similar frog species to understand why they met different fates in the same study area.

Location

Northern Italy.

Methods

In seven different years between 2004 and 2020, we performed repeated counts of egg masses of two similar frog species, the agile frog (Rana dalmatina) and the Italian agile frog (Rana latastei), in 31 wetlands, and used Bayesian models to estimate the relationships between frog abundance and candidate drivers acting at the scale of (i) site: wetland surface, shading percentage and the presence of the invasive red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii); (ii) landscape: forest cover around wetlands; (iii) climate: yearly precipitation and (iv) spatially structured population (SSP): clutch incidence of the focal species and crayfish incidence in the surrounding landscape.

Results

The two species showed sharp differences in population size and trends: R. dalmatina was abundant and showed a stable trend throughout the entire study period; R. latastei showed low abundance in the first years and then almost disappeared. The abundance of R. dalmatina was positively related to forest cover, shading, wetland area and precipitation, while negatively related to the occurrence of invasive crayfish at both local and SSP level. R. latastei abundance increased with wetland area and precipitation, while models were not able to detect relationships with other factors.

Main conclusions

The high sensitivity to drought and demographic stochasticity could have contributed to the quasi‐extinction of R. latastei in the study area, highlighting that similar species can meet different fates even under the same environmental conditions.
Relative efficacy of psychological interventions following interpersonal trauma on anxiety, depression, substance use, and PTSD symptoms in young people: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Peters Wilma , Rice Simon , Alvarez‐Jimenez Mario , Hetrick Sarah E. , Halpin Emma , Kamitsis Ilias , Santesteban‐Echarri Olga , Bendall Sarah
Published: February 2022

Aim

Interpersonal trauma exposures are associated with anxiety, depression, and substance use in youth populations (aged 12–25 years). This meta‐analysis reports on the efficacy of psychological interventions on these symptom domains in addition to post‐traumatic stress.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, a search of electronic databases was performed for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing interventions for young people following interpersonal trauma exposure. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Data were analysed using random‐effects meta‐analyses.

Results

Of the 4832 records screened, 78 studies were reviewed, and 10 RCTs, involving 679 participants (mean age 15.6 years), were analysed. There was a large pooled effect size for post‐traumatic stress (7 studies, g = 1.43, 95% CI [0.37, 2.15], p = .002) and substance use (2 studies, g = 0.70, 95% CI [−0.11, 1.22], p < .001) and small effect sizes for anxiety (4 studies, g = 0.30, 95% CI [0.10, 0.49], p = .003), and trend‐level effect for depression (10 studies, g = 0.27, 95% CI [0.00, 0.54], p = .052). Heterogeneity was significant for post‐traumatic stress and moderate for depression.

Conclusions

High‐quality RCTs of psychological interventions for anxiety, depression, substance use, and post‐traumatic stress symptoms in young people exposed to interpersonal trauma are scarce. While available studies show either statistically significant or trend‐level efficacy for psychological interventions in reducing these symptoms, wide confidence intervals, heterogeneity and small sample size mean that results need to be interpreted with caution.
Media coverage of the blue economy in British newspapers: Sea blindness and sustainable development
Authors: Germond‐Duret Celine , Germond Basil
Published: February 2022

The wide acceptance and endorsement of the blue economy by public and private actors can be considered as a positive step towards the sustainable transition of coastal and marine environments. While particular attention needs to be paid to the potential risks posed by the perspective of economic gains resulting from marine exploitation, a large public support is also required to build a sustainable society. The mass media plays a critical role in communicating scientific advances and risks, shaping opinions, and fostering behavioural change. The article discusses the media coverage of the blue economy in British newspapers through a frame analysis. The analysis reveals that the blue economy is largely framed in terms of economic opportunities and weak sustainability, and treated in a very factual, non‐critical way. Sea blindness enables us to understand the lack of in‐depth discussion about the blue economy and its framing as an overtly positive economic opportunity. The findings also suggest that the way the blue economy is represented proceeds from the dominant development discourse that has spread onto the marine space.
The godfather provides: Enduring corruption and organizational hierarchy in the Kenyan police service
Authors: Mutahi Njoroge , Micheni Makena , Lake Milli
Published: February 2022

Despite government commitments to mitigate corruption and strengthen mechanisms of accountability in state security sectors, reform efforts frequently fail to curb illegal practices by state agents. Scholars offer explanations that range from deeply embedded societal norms of appropriate behavior to rational accounts emphasizing the individualized benefits corruption can offer. Using a case study of the Service Standing Orders in Kenya's National Police Service however, we build on the work of Persson et al.'s analysis to show how corrupt practices on the part of street‐level agents are reinforced within organizational hierarchies, through institutionalized—rather than personalized—incentives and obligations. As a result, policy innovations that do not explicitly identify the countervailing incentives created through internal command structures are likely to miss potentially fruitful avenues for institutional reform.
What role should public firms play in the upstream market?
Authors: Liang Yongfu , Wang Leonard F. S. , Yang Yapo
Published: February 2022

We investigate the upstream public firm's desirable option of production timing in the vertically related upstream market. We find that multiple equilibria may exist, including the Cournot‐type and Stackelberg‐type, with different degrees of privatization in the presence of upstream firms' efficiency gap. These equilibrium outcomes are also influenced by the intensity of downstream market competition. We further show the corresponding optimal degree of privatization in different phases of gradual privatization.
Improvement for Ti3SiC2/Cu joint brazed using composite fillers with abnormal expansion ceramic particulates
Authors: Chen Haiyan , Nai Xin , Zhao Shuai , Lu Decai , Shen Zhikang , Li Wenya , Lu Chenyang , Cao Jian
Published: February 2022

Reducing the residual stresses and improving the mechanical strength of large‐scale ceramic/metal brazing joints is an important problem that must be solved for its practical engineering application. Using composite filler with solid‐state phase transformation ceramic particulates, it is theoretically feasible to relieve the residual stress and improve the mechanical properties of ceramic/metal brazed joints. In this study, Cu mesh, Ag–28Cu–2Ti (wt.%), and yttria‐stabilized zirconia (0.6 mol.% YSZ solid‐state phase transformation ceramic particulates) composite power fillers were used in the brazing of Ti3SiC2 ceramic and pure copper. The microstructure of joints and YSZ particulates in the interface was investigated and confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In addition, the effect of YSZ particulates content on the mechanical properties of joints was investigated and evaluated by the shear strength. The results show that the interfacial phases were mainly Ti5Si3, TiC, TixCu, Ag (s, s), Cu (s, s), and YSZ particulates. Moreover, most of YSZ particulates undergo the solid‐state phase transformation from tetragonal zirconia (t‐ZrO2) to monoclinic zirconia (m‐ZrO2) during the cooling process of brazing. The abnormal volume expansion of the solid‐state phase transformation reduced the thermal mismatch between Ti3SiC2 ceramic and filler, thereby reducing the residual stress in the interface of joint. When using composite filler with 6 wt.% YSZ particulates, the shear strength of Ti3SiC2/Cu joint reached the maximum. The maximum average shear strength of the joints was 80.2 MPa, which was about 103.6% more than the joint without YSZ particulates.
Quality of dialysis water and dialysate in haemodialysis centres: Highlight for occurrence of non-fermenting gram-negative bacilli
Authors: Anversa Laís , Romani Caroline D. , Caria Eliane S. , Saeki Erika K. , Nascentes Gabriel A. N. , Garbelotti Maricene , Stancari Regina C. A. , Dantas Stéfani T. A. , Rall Vera L. M. , Ruiz Luciana S. , Camargo Carlos H. , Richini-Pereira Virgínia B.
Published: February 2022

Aims

To evaluate the physicochemical and microbiological quality of dialysis water and dialysate samples from haemodialysis centres.

Methods and Results

Samples were fortnightly collected from three haemodialysis centres in Bauru City, Brazil, between July 2017 and June 2018, at the stages of post-reverse osmosis, reuse and dialysate. Analyses included determination of conductivity, fluoride, nitrate and sulphate; test for total coliform bacteria; count of heterotrophic bacteria; count and identification of non-fermenting gram-negative bacilli (NFGNB); drug susceptibility test; biofilm formation capacity; and genetic similarity among some isolated NFGNB. Of the analysed samples, only 4/72 (5.6%) had conductivity values ≥10 mS/cm, 4/216 (1.9%) presented total coliforms and 1/216 (0.5%) had heterotrophic bacteria count >100 CFU/ml. NFGNB were isolated from 99/216 (45.8%) samples, and the major identified micro-organisms included Herbaspirillum aquaticum/huttiense, Brevundimonas aurantiaca, Cupriavidus metallidurans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Ralstonia insidiosa. Isolates of P. aeruginosa and Burkholderia cepacia complex were sensitive to most antimicrobials and, together with isolates of Ralstonia insidiosa and Ralstonia pickettii, showed strong biofilm formation capacity. Some isolates expressed the same electrophoretic profile on pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, indicating the persistence of bacterial clones in the systems over time.

Conclusions

NFGNB were observed in several dialysis water and dialysate samples from all investigated centres, which may represent a risk to the health of patients.

Significance and Impact of the Study

Regular inclusion of actions for NFGNB control and monitoring in haemodialysis fluids are suggested for greater safety of the dialytic process.
Ecological traits drive genetic structuring in two open‐habitat birds from the morphologically cryptic genus Elaenia (Aves: Tyrannidae)
Authors: de Freitas Eliane L. , Campagna Leonardo , Butcher Bronwyn , Lovette Irby , Caparroz Renato
Published: February 2022

Understanding the relative contributions of the many factors that shape population genetic structuring is a central theme in evolutionary and conservation biology. Historically, abiotic or extrinsic factors (such as geographic barriers or climatic shifts) have received greater attention than biotic or intrinsic factors (such as dispersal or migration). This focus stems in part from the logistical difficulties in taking a comparative phylogeographic approach that contrasts species that have experienced similar abiotic conditions during their evolution yet differ in the intrinsic attributes that might shape their genetic structure. To explore the effects of intratropical migration on the genetic structuring of Neotropical birds, we chose two congeneric species, the lesser elaenia Elaenia chiriquensis and the plain‐crested elaenia E. cristata, that are largely sympatric, and which have similar plumage, habitat preferences and breeding phenology. Despite these many commonalities, they differ in migratory behavior: E. chiriquensis is an intratropical migratory species while E. cristata is sedentary. We used a reduced representation genomic approach to test whether migratory behavior is associated with increased gene flow and therefore lower genetic population structure. As predicted, we found notably stronger genetic structuring in the sedentary species than in the migratory one. E. cristata comprises genetic clusters with geographic correspondence throughout its distribution, while there are no geographic groups within Brazil for E. chiriquensis. This comparison adds to the growing evidence about how intrinsic traits like migration can shape the genetic structuring of birds, and advances our understanding of the diversification patterns of the understudied, open habitat species from South America.
A new species of the congrid eel genus Ariosoma (Anguilliformes: Congridae) from the south‐west coast of India
Authors: Kodeeswaran Paramasivam , Mohapatra Anil , Dhinakaran Arulraj , Ajith Kumar Thipramalai Thangappan Pillai , Lal Kuldeep Kumar
Published: February 2022

A new congrid eel species, Ariosoma maurostigma sp. nov., is described on the basis of 24 specimens collected from the deep‐sea trawl by‐catch, Kalamukku Fishing Harbour, off Kerala, Arabian Sea. The new species differs from all other congeners in having the following combination of characters: dark mark or spot on the posterodorsal margin of the eyes; dorsal surface of head with two faint darkish bands across the anterior and posterior margin of the eye; origin of the dorsal fin before the pectoral‐fin base; short vomerine teeth patch, ST pores 3, 1 median pore and 1 lateral pore on each side just behind the median pore; preanal vertebrae 47–51; precaudal vertebrae 54–57; total vertebrae 136–142; total pores 129–134. The phylogenetic analysis reveals that the new species is closely related to Ariosoma melanospilos and Ariosoma anale, with divergences of 13.8% and 14.9%, respectively.
Interbank borrowing and bank liquidity risk
Authors: Li Zongyuan , Lai Rose Neng
Published: February 2022

To avoid illiquidity spillovers and basis risk in swaps, interbank lenders are especially cautious about whether interbank borrowers can meet their claims. We examine whether the incentive of interbank lenders to penalize risky borrowers can reduce borrowers' liquidity risk taking. We find that interbank borrowers, especially small and medium banks, manage their liquidity risks more prudently than their counterparts. This phenomenon is especially significant for borrowers with high information asymmetry, low liquidity buffers, and high funding gaps. Our results suggest that interbank exposure reduces the asset, funding, and off‐balance‐sheet liquidity risks of small and medium borrowing banks, and can therefore supplement regulatory liquidity requirements, which target only the largest banks.
Organizational Structure and Technological Investment*
Authors: Macho‐Stadler Inés , Matsushima Noriaki , Shinohara Ryusuke
Published: February 2022

We analyze firms’ decisions on their vertical organization, taking into account the characteristics of both the final good competition and the R&D process. We consider two vertical chains where upstream sectors invest in R&D. Such investment determines the production costs of the downstream sector and has spillovers on the production and the investment costs of the rival. In a general setting, we show that the equilibrium organizational structure depends on whether the situation considered belongs to one of four possible cases. We study how final good market competition, R&D spillover, and R&D incentives interact to determine the equilibrium vertical structure.
What conservative interventions improve bite function in those with temporomandibular disorders? A systematic review using self‐reported and physical measures
Authors: Dinsdale Alana , Costin Brianna , Dharamdasani Simran , Page Ruth , Purs Nykeela , Treleaven Julia
Published: February 2022

Background

Bite is an important function of the human stomatognathic system. Despite this, it is commonly impaired in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) populations. The aim of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness of conservative interventions on self‐reported and physical measures of bite function in individuals with TMD.

Methods

This review was performed in compliance with PRISMA guidelines. An electronic search was performed on databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Cochrane Central. Inclusion criteria were journal articles evaluating the effect of any non‐pharmacological conservative interventions on bite function in participants diagnosed with TMD. Risk of bias for individual studies was assessed using the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias v2 tool, and the NIH NHLBI pre‐post tool. Data was synthesised based on outcome measures of bite function, and the quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

Results

Eleven studies were eligible for this review. Interventions included splinting, photobiomodulation, needling, exercise, manual therapy, and patient education, which were evaluated using mastication‐related pain, self‐reported chewing difficulty, and bite force/endurance outcome measures. Findings suggested manual therapy, needling, oral splinting, exercise, and PBM interventions may improve bite function in TMD, although confidence in cumulative evidence ranged from moderate to very low. There was no evidence that patient education improved bite function.

Conclusion

Conservative interventions may be helpful to address bite‐related impairments associated with TMD, although further research is needed to improve the quality of evidence and direct clinical guidelines.
Patients with ANCA‐associated vasculitis' experiences of informational needs: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Thorborg Tina , Ivarsen Per , Lacroise Dorthe Johanne , Päevatalu Astrid Overgaard , Breer Camilla Bader , Finderup Jeanette
Published: February 2022

Background

Anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitis is a rare chronic autoimmune organ‐ and life‐threatening disease primarily affecting kidneys and lungs. The clinical symptoms of the disease vary considerably, and patients may display varied symptoms. Healthcare professionals believe that the patients are well informed about their disease and symptoms of relapse. However, some patients contact the Department later than expected after the debut of symptoms of relapse.

Aim

To investigate patients' experiences of informational needs living with anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitis.

Design

Individual semi‐structured interviews by telephone due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Data were analysed through systematic text condensation. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist was used.

Participants

Ten patients were diagnosed with anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies‐associated vasculitis.

Approach

A qualitative study.

Findings

We identified five themes: ʻNeed oral and written information in a combination’, ʻNeed information about living with the disease’, ʻNeed information about symptoms and indications of relapse’, ʻNeed psychological support to receive information about the disease’ and ʻNeed a peer for sharing information’.

Conclusion

To increase patients' self‐management skills, healthcare professionals should focus on three areas of information: ‘Provision of information’, ‘Content of the information’ and ‘Learning prerequisites’. This study indicates that patients have an increased need for more and clear information about the disease as well as psychological support to react accurately to symptoms that may lead to relapse. Most of the patients had limited knowledge, which indicates that patients need a better understanding of their disease, symptoms and relapse.