bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vertical Hydraulic Gradient Estimation in Clay Till, Using MiHPT Advanced Direct‐Push Technology
Authors: Rosenberg Louise , Broholm Mette M. , Tuxen Nina , Kerrn‐Jespersen Ida Henriette , Lilbæk Gro , Bjerg Poul L.
Published: June 2021

The vertical transport of contaminants from source areas is employed in many risk assessment models and screening tools in order to estimate the contaminant mass discharge (CMD) into underlying aquifers. The key parameters for estimating CMD are the contaminant source area and concentration, and the vertical water flux, the latter of which depends on the vertical hydraulic conductivity and the vertical hydraulic gradient in the subsurface. This study focuses on advancing the use of the combined membrane interface probe hydraulic profiling tool (MiHPT) to investigate the vertical hydraulic gradient across a clay till overlying a sandy aquifer at a contaminated site in Denmark. Only the HPT is necessary for the estimate of vertical hydraulic gradient. The hydraulic head, clay till thickness, and resulting vertical hydraulic gradients found using the MiHPT compared well with observations from nearby nested wells. The parameter with the largest discrepancy was the thickness of the clay till. The advantage of the MiHPT is its relatively quick depth discrete access to information regarding subsurface permeability, vertical hydraulic gradients and contaminant distribution across a site. In this case study, performance of additional dissipationtests during the HPT log to acquire determination of the vertical hydraulic gradient increased the cost by 3% compared to standard HPT logs.
Habitat preferences of the Ortolan Bunting (Emberiza hortulana) in its prime wintering grounds, the cereal‐dominated Ethiopian Highlands
Authors: Gremion Jérémy , Marcacci Gabriel , Mazenauer Julien , Sori Tolera , Kebede Fanuel , Ewnetu Mihret , Christe Philippe , Arlettaz Raphaël , Jacot Alain
Published: June 2021

Agricultural intensification and land‐use changes are major factors impacting farmland biodiversity. The Ortolan BuntingEmberiza hortulanais the long‐distance trans‐Saharan migratory passerine that has undergone the most dramatic decline among all European farmland birds. The factors responsible for this decline may originate from the breeding grounds, migration stopovers and/or overwintering quarters. Very little is known about conditions on the species' wintering grounds, but a recent study has highlighted the utmost importance of the traditionally managed agroecosystems in the Ethiopian Highlands as a key wintering area, apparently harbouring as much as 90% of the world's Ortolan Bunting population. Using radiotracking and line transect surveys, this study aimed to provide fine‐grained information about species–habitat relationships in the Ortolan Bunting overwintering quarters. Our results showed the importance, at the landscape scale, of small‐scale agriculture, notably of traditionally managed, cereal‐dominated fields interspersed with semi‐natural structures. At a foraging‐site scale, on the other hand, patches of bare ground in combination with large areas of post‐harvesting stubble represented key habitat features. Stubbles provide an essential food resource and bare ground promotes ground foraging by enhancing food accessibility. The maintenance of a traditional agricultural economy will be essential to maintain the habitat potential for the Ortolan Buntings overwintering in the Ethiopian Highlands and will be instrumental in preserving its world population from further decline.
Effect of enzymatic treatments and microfiltration on the physicochemical quality parameters of feijoa (Acca sellowiana) juice
Authors: Schmidt Helena de Oliveira , Rockett Fernanda Camboim , Ebert Giovana , Sartori Giliani Veloso , Rezzadori Katia , Rodrigues Rafael Costa , Rios Alessandro de Oliveira , Manfroi Vitor
Published: June 2021

Feijoa fruit (Acca Sellowiana) has a short postharvest period, thus, processing is usually an alternative. The objective of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of three different commercial enzyme preparations in the extraction of feijoa juice in the yield and quality parameters. The juices with Pectinex®, Lallzyme® and Rohapect® were evaluated under three different concentrations (1, 5 and 10 U mL−1) before and after the pulping process. The samples were valued for total soluble solids, pH, reducing sugars, titratable acidity and colour. The juice that showed the most promise was evaluated for the microfiltration stage and rheological behaviour and particle size distribution were measured. The three treatments with Pectinex had an increase in juice yield in 43, 55 and 60%, while the samples with enzymes Lallzyme and Rohapect had no increase in yield compared to the control. All the tested enzymes had a positive impact on the colour of the juice, improving the colour parameters. The microfiltered juice had a behaviour index value of 1,091, indicating Newtonian behaviour. The fresh juice showed values below one (0.2178), indicating a non‐Newtonian and typically pseudoplastic behaviour. Among three enzymes used, Pectinex® showed the better results for physical–chemical parameters for extraction of feijoa juice.
Impaired metabolic health over‐time and high abdominal fat are prospectively associated with high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein in children: The IDEFICS study
Authors: González‐Gil Esther M. , Moreno Luis A. , Nappo Annunziata , Santabárbara Javier , Wolters Maike , Russo Paola , De Henauw Stefaan , Veidebaum Toomas , Molnar Denes , Hunsberger Monica , Fraterman Arno , Iacoviello Licia , Tornaritis Michael , Ahrens Wolfgang , Bel‐Serrat Silvia ,   on behalf the IDEFICS consortium
Published: June 2021

Background

Metabolic risk and inflammatory state have an early life onset and are associated with future diseases.

Objectives

To assess the association between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and metabolic health with high‐sensitive C‐reactive protein (hsCRP), cross‐sectionally and longitudinally, in children.

Methods

2913 European children (2‐10 years) from eight countries from the IDEFICS study were investigated. Data were collected at baseline and 2 years later (follow‐up). A MetS z‐score was computed with waist circumference (WC), insulin resistance index, blood pressure, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides. Metabolically unhealthy (MU) status was assessed. Multi‐level linear and logistic regressions were performed.

Results

Among the MetS markers, WC was more consistently associated with hsCRP cross‐sectional and prospectively. Baseline MetS score was significantly associated with greater risk of high hsCRP at follow‐up and with prevalence and incidence of hsCRP. Those children who became MU overtime were significantly (P < .05) associated with future higher levels of hsCRP, independently of weight status at baseline.

Conclusions

Transition over time to a MU state was associated with higher levels of hsCRP at follow‐up, independent of weight status at baseline. Screening of metabolic factors and routine measurement of WC are needed to prevent inflammatory status and related chronic diseases in children.
The Moral Distress‐Appraisal Scale: Scale development and validation study
Authors: Baele Céline A. , Fontaine Johnny R. J.
Published: June 2021

Aims

Moral distress—arising when one is constrained from moral action—has been receiving increased attention in nursing research. The phenomenon is associated with negative outcomes and is shown to impact a broad range of healthcare professions. The context‐specific nature of existing measures, however, makes it difficult, if not impossible, to compare the prevalence and impact of moral distress across nursing settings and healthcare professions. This study presents an appraisal approach to the assessment of moral distress. The aims of this study were to develop and to investigate the reliability and validity of the Moral Distress‐Appraisal Scale as a context‐independent assessment instrument for moral distress.

Design

This is a cross‐sectional correlational validation study.

Methods

Between September 2018 and June 2019, a total of 406 healthcare employees (mainly nurses) completed a quantitative survey consisting of a standard moral distress measure (Moral Distress Scale‐Revised) and the Moral Distress‐Appraisal Scale. A subsample (n = 164) received extra questions on work characteristics, well‐being and attitudinal outcomes. Confirmatory factor analysis, Pearson correlations and regression analyses were conducted in order to evaluate the psychometric properties of the newly developed scale.

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis provided evidence for the predicted structure of the 8‐item Moral Distress‐Appraisal Scale. As expected, the scale is positively correlated with the Moral Distress Scale‐Revised and with job demands, burnout, depressive symptoms, and turnover intentions and negatively with job resources and job satisfaction. Furthermore, the scale showed incremental validity in predicting wellbeing and attitudinal outcomes above and beyond both known predictive work characteristics and the Moral Distress Scale‐Revised.

Conclusion

This study provides first empirical evidence for the reliability and validity of the Moral Distress‐Appraisal Scale.

Impact

The Moral Distress‐Appraisal Scale can be used across healthcare professions and contexts. The proposed appraisal approach may facilitate integration of the scale into occupational health research and practice.
Secondary prevention of coronary heart disease: The effect of a nursing intervention using Cox's interaction model of client health behaviour
Authors: Shen Qianqian , He Pingping , Wen Min , Yu Juping , Chen Yeshi , Li Junyi , Ouyang Xinping
Published: June 2021

Aims

Secondary prevention of coronary heart disease is of utmost importance to facilitate people to achieve health outcomes and behaviours. This study was to investigate the effect of a nursing intervention based on Cox's interaction model of client health behaviour to improve health outcomes and behaviours of secondary prevention of coronary heart disease.

Design

This study is a cluster randomised controlled trial.

Methods

Participants were recruited between August and November 2019 in two community settings in Hengyang city, Hunan province, China. Participants in the intervention group received a nursing intervention based on Cox's interaction model of client health behaviour and routine health education, while those in the control group received routine health education only. The outcome variables included self‐management, physical activity, medication compliance, anxiety, sexual knowledge, the ability to identify sexual health education needs, blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C). The influential statistical tests applied to analyse the data included χ2 tests and t tests.

Results

Seventy‐seven participants completed this study. Compared with the control group (n = 40), the intervention group (n = 37) showed statistically significant better health outcomes and behaviours regarding self‐management, physical activity (except for high energy consumption), medication compliance, anxiety, sexual knowledge, the ability to identify sexual health education needs, systolic blood pressure, BMI, and LDL‐C. However, there was no statistically significant difference in diastolic blood pressure and high energy consumption for physical activity.

Conclusion

A well‐developed nursing intervention based on Cox's interaction model of client health behaviour could successfully improve health outcomes and behaviours of secondary prevention of coronary heart disease. Such an intervention may be incorporated into community healthcare practice by nurses to improve patient care.

Impact

This study provides a valuable insight to facilitate further development of effective nursing interventions to improve secondary prevention of coronary heart disease in community settings.
Clinical and self‐reported oral conditions and quality of life in the 1982 Pelotas birth cohort
Authors: Nascimento Gustavo G. , Goettems Marília L. , Schertel Cassiano Luisa , Horta Bernardo L. , Demarco Flávio F.
Published: June 2021

Aim

To investigate and compare the effects of clinical and self‐perceived oral conditions on oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) among young adults.

Materials and methods

Adults enrolled in the 1982 Pelotas birth cohort were included in this study. OHRQoL was assessed by the Oral Health Impact Profile‐14 (OHIP‐14) instrument. Clinical parameters such as dental caries, periodontitis, aesthetics, and occlusal characteristics, and tongue coating were collected through clinical evaluation, while dental anxiety and halitosis were self‐reported. Direct and indirect effects of clinical and self‐perceived oral conditions on OHRQoL were assessed using structural equation modelling.

Results

Five‐hundred and thirty‐nine individuals participated in this study. Dental caries (β = 0.12) and periodontitis (β = 0.11) were directly and indirectly (via halitosis, β = 0.05 for periodontitis only) associated with greater OHIP‐14 scores, while the other clinical conditions did not influence the OHIP‐14 scores. Dental anxiety and halitosis were also associated with higher OHIP‐14 scores (β = 0.31 and β = 0.27, respectively).

Conclusions

This study found a positive association between clinically diagnosed and self‐reported oral conditions and OHRQoL; however, the self‐reported conditions had a higher impact on OHRQoL.
Reverse transcription loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (RT‐LAMP) combined with colorimetric gold nanoparticle (AuNP) probe assay for visual detection of tilapia lake virus (TiLV) in Nile and red hybrid tilapia
Authors: Kampeera Jantana , Dangtip Sirintip , Suvannakad Rapheephat , Khumwan Pakapreud , Senapin Saengchan , Kiatpathomchai Wansika
Published: June 2021

Tilapia is one of the major aquaculture species with a global economic significance. Despite a high scale of production worldwide, mortality in many tilapia cultures has recently become a problem concerned with not only intensive farming but also the prevalence of infectious pathogens. Tilapia lake virus (TiLV) has emerged as a serious single‐stranded RNA disease agent that thus far has continued to cause a number of incidences across the continents. Conventional PCR‐based molecular detection techniques, despite having high sensitivity for TiLV, are not best suited for the onsite identification of infected fish mainly due to their requirement of laboratory resources and extended assay turnaround time. To address this practical limitation, we have developed a novel colorimetric assay based on reverse transcription–loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (RT‐LAMP) and gold nanoparticle (AuNP)‐labelled oligonucleotide reporter probe targeting the viral genomic segment 9 that enables the assay to be completed within an hour. This technique has been shown to be compatible with a rapid nucleic extraction method that does not demand centrifugation steps or any benchtop laboratory equipment. When validated with field‐acquired tilapia samples, our RT‐LAMP‐AuNP assay exhibited a near‐perfect agreement with the semi‐nested RT‐PCR assay recommended by OIE with Cohen's κ coefficient of .869, yet requiring significantly less time to perform.
Fecal microbiota transplantation therapy in Crohn's disease: Systematic review
Authors: Fehily Sasha R , Basnayake Chamara , Wright Emily K , Kamm Michael A
Published: June 2021

Background

The gastrointestinal microbiota is the key antigenic drive in the inflammatory bowel diseases. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in ulcerative colitis have established fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as an effective therapy. We have conducted a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy of FMT in Crohn's disease.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed through to August 2020 (MEDLINE; Embase). Studies were included if they reported FMT administration in patients with Crohn's disease, and reported on clinical outcomes.

Results

Fifteen studies published between 2014 and 2020, comprising 13 cohort studies and two RCTs, were included in the analysis. The majority of trials evaluated FMT for induction of remission, with follow‐up duration varying from 4 to 52 weeks. One RCT in 21 patients, of single‐dose FMT versus placebo, following steroid‐induced remission, showed a higher rate of steroid‐free clinical remission in the FMT group compared to the control group: 87.5% vs 44.4% at week 10 (P = 0.23). Another RCT, two‐dose FMT in 31 patients, showed an overall clinical remission rate of 36% at week 8, however, with no difference in clinical or endoscopic endpoints between FMT administered by gastroscopy and colonoscopy. Considering all studies, the clinical response rates in early follow up were higher following multiple FMT than with single FMT. FMT dose did not appear to influence clinical outcomes, nor did whether FMT was fresh or frozen. FMT delivered via upper gastrointestinal route demonstrated higher early efficacy rates of 75 to 100% compared with lower delivery route rates of 30% to 58%, but on follow up beyond 8 weeks, this difference was not maintained. Whether pre‐FMT antibiotic administration was beneficial was not able to be determined due to the limited number of patients receiving antibiotics and varying antibiotic regimens. No serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

Preliminary studies suggest that FMT may be an effective therapy in Crohn's disease. However large controlled trials are needed. No serious safety concerns have been identified.
Neurochemical biomarkers to study CNS effects of COVID‐19: A narrative review and synthesis
Authors: Edén Arvid , Simrén Joel , Price Richard W. , Zetterberg Henrik , Gisslén Magnus
Published: June 2021

Neurological symptoms are frequently reported in patients suffering from COVID‐19. Common CNS‐related symptoms include anosmia, caused by viral interaction with either neurons or supporting cells in nasal olfactory tissues. Diffuse encephalopathy is the most common sign of CNS dysfunction, which likely results from the CNS consequences of the systemic inflammatory syndrome associated with severe COVID‐19. Additionally, microvascular injuries and thromboembolic events likely contribute to the neurologic impact of acute COVID‐19. These observations are supported by evidence of CNS immune activation in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and in autopsy tissue, along with the detection of microvascular injuries in both pathological and neuroimaging studies. The frequent occurrence of thromboembolic events in patients with COVID‐19 has generated different hypotheses, among which viral interaction with perivascular cells is particularly attractive, yet unproven. A distinguishing feature of CSF findings in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection is that clinical signs characteristic of neurotropic viral infections (CSF pleocytosis and blood–brain barrier injury) are mild or absent. Moreover, virus detection in CSF is rare and often of uncertain significance. In this review, we provide an overview of the neurological impact that occurs in the acute phase of COVID‐19, and the role of CSF biomarkers in the clinical management and research to better treat and understand the disease. In addition to aiding as diagnostic and prognostic tools during acute infection, the use of comprehensive and well‐characterized CSF and blood biomarkers will be vital in understanding the potential impact on the CNS in the rapidly increasing number of individuals recovering from COVID‐19.

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Potential crosstalk between sonic hedgehog‐WNT signaling and neurovascular molecules: Implications for blood–brain barrier integrity in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Gozal Evelyne , Jagadapillai Rekha , Cai Jun , Barnes Gregory N.
Published: June 2021

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disease originating from combined genetic and environmental factors. Post‐mortem human studies and some animal ASD models have shown brain neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and changes in blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity. However, the signaling pathways leading to these inflammatory findings and vascular alterations are currently unclear. The BBB plays a critical role in controlling brain homeostasis and immune response. Its dysfunction can result from developmental genetic abnormalities or neuroinflammatory processes. In this review, we explore the role of the Sonic Hedgehog/Wingless‐related integration site (Shh/Wnt) pathways in neurodevelopment, neuroinflammation, and BBB development. The balance between Wnt‐β‐catenin and Shh pathways controls angiogenesis, barriergenesis, neurodevelopment, central nervous system (CNS) morphogenesis, and neuronal guidance. These interactions are critical to maintain BBB function in the mature CNS to prevent the influx of pathogens and inflammatory cells. Genetic mutations of key components of these pathways have been identified in ASD patients and animal models, which correlate with the severity of ASD symptoms. Disruption of the Shh/Wnt crosstalk may therefore compromise BBB development and function. In turn, impaired Shh signaling and glial activation may cause neuroinflammation that could disrupt the BBB. Elucidating how ASD‐related mutations of Shh/Wnt signaling could cause BBB leaks and neuroinflammation will contribute to our understanding of the role of their interactions in ASD pathophysiology. These observations may provide novel targeted therapeutic strategies to prevent or alleviate ASD symptoms while preserving normal developmental processes.

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Cover Image for this issue: https://doi.org/10.1111/jnc.15081
The consequences of living longer—Effects of an experimentally extended velvet antler phase on the histomorphology of antler bone in fallow deer (Dama dama)
Authors: Kierdorf Uwe , Schultz Michael , Kierdorf Horst
Published: June 2021

Antlers are periodically regenerated paired cranial appendages of male deer (both sexes in reindeer) that constitute the fastest‐growing bones in the animal kingdom. The annual antler cycle of male deer is linked to testicular activity and largely controlled by seasonal fluctuations of testosterone concentrations in their blood. We studied the effects of an experimental doubling (to eight months) of the velvet antler phase, during which the antlers are covered by skin (velvet), on the histomorphology of antler bone in three adult fallow bucks. Extension of the velvet antler phase in the experimental animals had been caused by administration of the antiandrogen cyproterone acetate (CPA). The distal portions of the antlers from two of the CPA‐treated bucks exhibited partial sequestration of the antler cortex, with the separation plane typically located along the border between cortex and spongiosa. It is hypothesized that this was caused by cortical necrosis due to severe ischemia during later stages of the extended velvet antler phase. In places, new cancellous bone had been deposited on the resorption surface of the spongiosa, indicating a regeneration process. Normal fallow deer antlers (“controls”) from this and a previous study, that is, antlers with a timespan of about four months between onset of new antler growth and velvet shedding, exhibited no or only minor bone remodeling and still contained remnants of calcified cartilage in their distal portions. In contrast, the antlers of the three CPA‐treated bucks showed evidence (secondary osteons and resorption cavities) of marked bone remodeling along their entire length and lacked remnants of calcified cartilage. Our results underscore that the typical histological features of antler bone reflect its short‐lived nature. Antlers are not mechanically loaded during the velvet stage, and it is presently unclear what triggered remodeling activity in the antlers whose lifespan had been experimentally extended.
Familial occurrence of skeletal developmental anomalies as a reflection of biological relationships in a genealogically documented Central European sample (19th to 20th centuries)
Authors: Cvrček Jan , Kuželka Vítězslav , Jor Tomáš , Dupej Ján , Horák Martin , Naňka Ondřej , Brůžek Jaroslav , Velemínský Petr
Published: June 2021

Skeletal developmental anomalies (SDA) are a subject of constant interest across scientific disciplines, but still mostly as isolates and curiosities. The aim of this study was to find out to what extent the occurrence of SDA reflects documented biological relationships. The skeletal remains of 34 individuals with known genealogical data were available, members of one family over four generations (19th to 20th centuries, Bohemia, Czech Republic), including some inbred individuals. The occurrence of 89 SDA was assessed on the basis of scopic morphological evaluation and X‐ray and CT examinations. The degree of similarity between individuals was calculated using a “similarity coefficient” (SC). A linear model was used to test the relationship between positive values of the SC and the relatedness of biologically related individuals. Simultaneously, based on population frequencies of the evaluated anomalies, those that could be considered familial were recorded. A statistically significant relationship between morphological similarity and the biological distance between individuals was found. The greatest similarity was found among close relatives such as parents and children, siblings, or grandparents and grandchildren. The effect of increased consanguinity on the occurrence of anomalies was not confirmed, however. Seventeen SDA shared by closely related individuals were found in the sample, supporting the documented family relationships among them. Eleven of these were selected as possibly familial, but only five were statistically significant: an elongated styloid process, a cervical block vertebrae (arch, facet joints), hamate hamulus aplasia, anteater nose sign, and incomplete fusion of the S1 spinous process. There were also 28 cases of individual occurrences of 17 different SDA, without connection to the documented relationships between individuals.
A Novel Technique to Align the Intraoral Scans to the Virtual Articulator and Set the Patient‐Specific Sagittal Condylar Inclination
Authors: Yang Shengtao , Feng Ning , Li Dan , Wu Yunshu , Yue Li , Yuan Quan
Published: June 2021

Customized cast orientations and parameter settings of the virtual articulator according to the patient's condyles are indispensable parts of today's digital workflows in prosthodontics. This article describes a digital technique to align the intraoral scans to a virtual articulator by using a facial scanner to locate the patient's cutaneous landmarks of the arbitrary hinge axis and the reference plane, and to customize the sagittal condylar inclination of the virtual articulator through a digital protrusive interocclusal record and a dental computer‐aided design software program. It enables individual cast orientations and virtual articulator parameter settings without conventional facebow transferring and bite registration procedures and can be easily integrated with most virtual articulator systems on the market to allow clinicians and technicians to work in a complete digital workflow and facilitate customized treatment planning and dental prosthesis fabrication.
Oxygen concentration of gut luminal contents varies post‐prandially in growing pigs
Authors: Montoya Carlos A. , Maier Eva , Banic Milena , McNabb Warren C. , Moughan Paul J.
Published: June 2021

The oxygen (O2) concentration of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) contents decreases distally, but little is known about how O2 concentrations are influenced by ingestion of a meal. The O2 concentration in luminal contents at different GIT locations (stomach [cardia and pylorus], proximal, mid‐ and distal small intestine and caecum) and how these concentrations changed post‐prandially were determined. Fifty entire male pigs (22 kg bodyweight at the start of study) were fed semi‐synthetic diets containing casein, α‐lactalbumin, whey protein isolate or zein as the sole source of protein for 8 days. A further group of pigs received the casein diet for six days and a semi‐synthetic protein‐free diet for a further 2 days. On day 8, pigs (n = 2 per diet and time point) were euthanized post‐prandially (0, 1, 2, 4 and 6 h), and the stomach, small intestine and caecum were isolated and O2 determined in the GIT contents. Observations at each time point were averaged across the diets (n = 10). The mean O2 concentration was markedly higher (p ≤ 0.05) in the stomach compared with the rest of the GIT. The O2 concentration was similar in the small intestinal regions (p > 0.05; 1.0%–1.1%) and the caecum (0.9%), apart for the proximal small intestine which had a 24% higher (p ≤ 0.05) O2 concentration than the caecum. The mean O2 concentration in the GIT varied post‐prandially (p ≤ 0.05). The O2 concentration in the cardia decreased 1.8%/h over the first two hours post‐feeding and thereafter increased 0.3%/h (p ≤ 0.05). In the caecum, the O2 concentration was constant during the first 4 h and thereafter increased slightly (p ≤ 0.05). The flow of food through the GIT influenced both the concentration and amount of O2 in GIT luminal contents.
Seasonal functional autoregressive models
Authors: Zamani Atefeh , Haghbin Hossein , Hashemi Maryam , Hyndman Rob J.
Published: June 2021

Functional autoregressive models are popular for functional time series analysis, but the standard formulation fails to address seasonal behaviour in functional time series data. To overcome this shortcoming, we introduce seasonal functional autoregressive time series models. For the model of order one, we derive sufficient stationarity conditions and limiting behaviour, and provide estimation and prediction methods. Moreover, we consider a portmanteau test for testing the adequacy of this model, and we derive its asymptotic distribution. The merits of this model are demonstrated using simulation studies and via an application to hourly pedestrian counts.
Concurrent diagnosis of sinus fungus ball and invasive fungal sinusitis: A retrospective case series
Authors: Assiri Abdullah M. , Ryu Sungseok , Kim Ji Heui
Published: June 2021

Background

Sinus fungal ball (SFB) is the most common type of non‐invasive fungal sinusitis and develops mostly in immunocompetent individuals, whereas invasive fungal sinusitis (IFS), with high mortality, develops mostly in immunocompromised patients. SFB may progress to IFS depending on the patient's immune status and underlying diseases.

Objectives

To investigate the possibility of SFB progressing to IFS.

Patients/Methods

A total of 10 patients histopathologically diagnosed with concurrent IFS and SFB from January 2013 to December 2019 were enrolled. Their clinical characteristics, histopathology and clinical course information were obtained and compared with those of 56 patients with IFS alone and 617 patients with SFB alone.

Results

Acute, chronic and chronic granulomatous IFS was diagnosed in two (20%), five (50%) and three (30%) patients, respectively. All patients had severe facial pain and/or headache, with the most common comorbidity being diabetes (n = 5, 50%). SFB was identified in the maxillary (60%) and sphenoid (40%) sinuses. The tissue culture was positive for Aspergillus species in five (50%) patients. Eight patients with chronic or chronic granulomatous IFS were successfully treated by debridement with voriconazole, and the two patients with acute IFS and severe neutropenia due to haematologic malignancy died. Compared to patients with IFS alone, patients with combined SFB and IFS were older, female dominant, and commonly had chronic or chronic granulomatous IFS. In addition, they were older and more commonly diabetic and immunocompromised than patients with SFB alone.

Conclusions

SFB may progress to IFS particularly in elderly and immunocompromised patients.
A phylogeny of Antirrhinum reveals parallel evolution of alpine morphology
Authors: Durán‐Castillo Mario , Hudson Andrew , Wilson Yvette , Field David L. , Twyford Alex D.
Published: June 2021

Parallel evolution of similar morphologies in closely related lineages provides insight into the repeatability and predictability of evolution. In the genus Antirrhinum (snapdragons), as in other plants, a suite of morphological characters are associated with adaptation to alpine environments.

We tested for parallel trait evolution in Antirrhinum by investigating phylogenetic relationships using restriction‐site associated DNA (RAD) sequencing. We then associated phenotypic information to our phylogeny to reconstruct the patterns of morphological evolution and related this to evidence for hybridisation between emergent lineages.

Phylogenetic analyses showed that the alpine character syndrome is present in multiple groups, suggesting that Antirrhinum has repeatedly colonised alpine habitats. Dispersal to novel environments happened in the presence of intraspecific and interspecific gene flow.

We found support for a model of parallel evolution in Antirrhinum. Hybridisation in natural populations, and a complex genetic architecture underlying the alpine morphology syndrome, support an important role of natural selection in maintaining species divergence in the face of gene flow.
Fear‐related barriers to physical activity among adults with overweight and obesity: A narrative synthesis scoping review
Authors: Hamer Oliver , Larkin Derek , Relph Nicola , Dey Paola
Published: June 2021

Physical activity is a health behavior contributing to successful weight management. Adults with overweight and obesity find it challenging to meet recommended activity guidelines because of a range of barriers, some of which are not yet fully understood. A barrier receiving limited consideration, compared with other literature within this field, is that of fear. The purpose of this scoping review was to establish the extent of literature on fear‐related barriers to physical activity in adults with overweight or obesity and to identify gaps in this literature. The review followed the scoping review framework outlined by Arksey and O'Malley and adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. The findings of the identified papers were charted thematically using a framework of fears and age group. In total, 34 studies were included that identified nine different fears related to barriers to activity in this population. However, only a small number of studies (n = 5) had explicitly intended to explore fear‐related barriers. There were notable knowledge gaps including activity‐related fear of pain and movement in adults under 45 years of age. There is a strong rationale to further explore these fears because they may restrict health promoting behavior.
A role for metabolism in determining neonatal immune function
Authors: Holm Sean R. , Jenkins Ben J. , Cronin James G. , Jones Nicholas , Thornton Catherine A.
Published: June 2021

Immune responses of neonates differ markedly to those of adults, with skewed cytokine phenotypes, reduced inflammatory properties and drastically diminished memory function. Recent research efforts have started to unravel the role of cellular metabolism in determining immune cell fate and function. For studies in humans, much of the work on metabolic mechanisms underpinning innate and adaptive immune responses by different haematopoietic cell types is in adults. Studies investigating the contribution of metabolic adaptation in the unique setting of early life are just emerging, and much more work is needed to elucidate the contribution of metabolism to neonatal immune responses. Here, we discuss our current understanding of neonatal immune responses, examine some of the latest developments in neonatal immunometabolism and consider the possible role of altered metabolism to the distinctive immune phenotype of the neonate. Understanding the role of metabolism in regulating immune function at this critical stage in life has direct benefit for the child by affording opportunities to maximize immediate and long‐term health. Additionally, gaining insight into the diversity of human immune function and naturally evolved immunometabolic strategies that modulate immune function could be harnessed for a wide range of opportunities including new therapeutic approaches.
Detection of QTLs in a Mediterranean climate associated with fire blight necrosis length in Pyrus communis using a high‐resolution genetic linkage map
Authors: Gabay Gilad , Dahan Yardena , Cohen Oded , Barshan Idan , Itzhaki Yacov , Flaishman Moshe A.
Published: June 2021

Fire blight caused by the bacterium Erwinia amylovora, is the most critical disease of European pear. Breeding of resistant cultivars is a possible solution for a growing demand for healthier alternative practices for disease control. In this study, we present a pear fire blight genetic study using a large F1 population. Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were detected using a high‐resolution genetic map, allowing detection of QTLs with small intervals. A total of 162 offspring crossbred between ‘Harrow Sweet’ (HS, low susceptibility cultivar) and ‘Spadona’ (SPD, high susceptibility cultivar) were studied. We detected a significant genotype effect (p < .0001), which explained 46.4% of the variance of the necrosis length. A major QTL of the main genotype effect (AVG) was detected at 8.8 cM in linkage group (LG) 2 (LOD = 7.7). Additional QTLs were detected in LGs 7, 13 and 15. These markers can greatly contribute to pear breeding programs in a Mediterranean climate and can shed light on potential candidate genes that control fire blight resistance.
Chinese women with melasma exhibit a low minimal erythema dose to both UVA and UVB
Authors: Wang Zixu , Lu Fengyan , Li Xing , Guo Yanni , Li Jiajing , He Li
Published: June 2021

Background

Melasma is a common disorder manifested by symmetric hyperpigmentation of sun‐exposed skin. Although ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a known risk factor of melasma, whether skin sensitivities to UVA and/or UVB differ between healthy controls and female patients with melasma is unknown.

Methods

Minimal erythema dose (MED)‐UVA and MED‐UVB results were compared between female patients with melasma and healthy controls. Additionally, relationships between MED values and Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) scores, and skin color were assessed.

Results

The melasma and control groups included 142 and 137 subjects, respectively. Compared with healthy control group, our melasma group had lower MED‐UVA (P < .001) and MED‐UVB (P < .05). MASI scores were negatively correlated with MED‐UVA and MED‐UVB (P < .001). Additionally, Skin a* values in melasma‐involved skin were negatively correlated with MED‐UVA (P < .05). Skin b* values in melasma‐involved skin were negatively correlated with MED‐UVB and MED‐UVA (P < .05).

Conclusions

Patients with melasma exhibit a low MED to both UVA and UVB, rendering them have a predisposition to an increased UV sensitivity. Because of the association between melasma and UV sensitivity, sun exposure should be avoided to alleviate or prevent melasma.
Detection of the root lesion nematode Pratylenchus penetrans in potato tubers
Authors: Figueiredo Joana , Vieira Paulo , Abrantes Isabel , Esteves Ivânia
Published: June 2021

The root lesion nematode Pratylenchus penetrans parasitizes a wide range of economically important crops, including potato (Solanum tuberosum). Damage by P. penetrans impacts not only the potato yield but can also reduce the tuber quality. Detailed information on tuber infection by P. penetrans is scarce for most cultivars and molecular detection of nematodes from infected tubers is needed. The objective of this study was to assess tuber symptomatology due to P. penetrans infection in 10 potato cultivars and to provide an accurate molecular methodology for nematode detection using tuber peels. Sprouts of certified potato seed from cultivars Agata, Agria, Camel, Désirée, Dirosso, Kennebec, Laura, Picasso, Royata, and Stemster were planted in 2 L pots, and soil was inoculated with 4 P. penetrans/g of soil. Sixty days after inoculation, tubers were harvested, inspected for lesions, and the number of nematodes/g of potato peel assessed. Observations of tubers with symptoms showed the presence of P. penetrans in superficial layers of peels around the lenticels and injured necrotic tissue. Different nematode stages were detected in tubers of all inoculated cultivars, varying from 4 to 46 nematodes/g of potato peel. Species‐specific primers showed suitable sensitivity and reproducibility for the detection of P. penetrans in tuber potato peel samples. The molecular detection of P. penetrans directly from tuber peels can facilitate routine nematode inspections of potato seed tubers or cull potatoes for nematode detection, and prevent further dissemination of this species.
Acclimation of photosynthetic apparatus in the mesophilic red alga Dixoniella giordanoi
Authors: Fattore Nicolò , Savio Simone , Vera‐Vives Antoni M. , Battistuzzi Mariano , Moro Isabella , La Rocca Nicoletta , Morosinotto Tomas
Published: June 2021

Eukaryotic algae are photosynthetic organisms capable of exploiting sunlight to fix carbon dioxide into biomass with highly variable genetic and metabolic features. Information on algae metabolism from different species is inhomogeneous and, while green algae are, in general, more characterized, information on red algae is relatively scarce despite their relevant position in eukaryotic algae diversity. Within red algae, the best‐known species are extremophiles or multicellular, while information on mesophilic unicellular organisms is still lacunose. Here, we investigate the photosynthetic properties of a recently isolated seawater unicellular mesophilic red alga, Dixoniella giordanoi. Upon exposure to different illuminations, D. giordanoi shows the ability to acclimate, modulate chlorophyll content, and re‐organize thylakoid membranes. Phycobilisome content is also largely regulated, leading to almost complete disassembly of this antenna system in cells grown under intense illumination. Despite the absence of a light‐induced xanthophyll cycle, cells accumulate zeaxanthin upon prolonged exposure to strong light, likely contributing to photoprotection. D. giordanoi cells show the ability to perform cyclic electron transport that is enhanced under strong illumination, likely contributing to the protection of Photosystem I from over‐reduction and enabling cells to survive PSII photoinhibition without negative impact on growth.
Habitat value of bivalve shellfish and seaweed aquaculture for fish and invertebrates: Pathways, synthesis and next steps
Authors: Theuerkauf Seth J. , Barrett Luke T. , Alleway Heidi K. , Costa‐Pierce Barry A. , St. Gelais Adam , Jones Robert C.
Published: June 2021

Aquaculture can have negative environmental impacts, adding to the suite of anthropogenic stressors that challenge coastal ecosystems. However, a growing body of scientific evidence indicates that the commercial cultivation of bivalve shellfish and seaweed can deliver valuable ecosystem goods and services, including provision of new habitats for fish and mobile invertebrate species. We completed a systematic literature review of studies focused on understanding habitat‐related interactions associated with bivalve and seaweed aquaculture, and a brief meta‐analysis of 65 studies to evaluate fish and mobile macroinvertebrate populations at farms and reference sites. Bivalve and seaweed aquaculture were associated with higher abundance (n = 59, range: 0.05× to 473×, median lnRR = 0.67) and species richness (n = 29, range: 0.68× to 4.3×, median lnRR = 0.13) of wild, mobile macrofauna. Suspended or elevated mussel and oyster culture yielded the largest increases in wild macrofaunal abundance and species richness. We describe the major mechanisms and pathways by which bivalve and seaweed aquaculture may positively influence the structure and function of faunal communities—including provision of structured habitat, provision of food resources and enhanced reproduction and recruitment—and identify the role of the species cultivated and cultivation gear in affecting habitat value. Given the continued deterioration of coastal habitats and increasing investments into their restoration, understanding how industry activities such as aquaculture can be designed to deliver food within ecological limits and have positive influences on ecosystem goods and services is essential in ensuring ecological, social and economic objectives can be achieved.
The importance of ventilatory thresholds to define aerobic exercise intensity in cardiac patients and healthy subjects
Authors: Anselmi Francesca , Cavigli Luna , Pagliaro Antonio , Valente Serafina , Valentini Francesca , Cameli Matteo , Focardi Marta , Mochi Nicola , Dendale Paul , Hansen Dominique , Bonifazi Marco , Halle Martin , D’Ascenzi Flavio
Published: June 2021

Background

Although structured exercise training is strongly recommended in cardiac patients, uncertainties exist about the methods for determining exercise intensity (EI) and their correspondence with effective EI obtained by ventilatory thresholds. We aimed to determine the first (VT1) and second ventilatory thresholds (VT2) in cardiac patients, sedentary subjects, and athletes comparing VT1 and VT2 with EI defined by recommendations.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 350 subjects (mean age: 50.7±12.9 years; 167 cardiac patients, 150 healthy sedentary subjects, and 33 competitive endurance athletes). Each subject underwent ECG, echocardiography, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. The percentages of peak VO2, peak heart rate (HR), and HR reserve were obtained at VT1 and VT2 and compared with the EI definition proposed by the recommendations.

Results

VO2 at VT1 corresponded to high rather than moderate EI in 67.1% and 19.8% of cardiac patients, applying the definition of moderate exercise by the previous recommendations and the 2020 guidelines, respectively. Most cardiac patients had VO2 values at VT2 corresponding to very‐high rather than high EI (59.9% and 50.3%, by previous recommendations and 2020 guidelines, respectively). A better correspondence between ventilatory thresholds and recommended EI domains was observed in healthy subjects and athletes (90% and 93.9%, respectively).

Conclusions

EI definition based on percentages of peak HR and peak VO2 may misclassify the effective EI, and the discrepancy between the individually determined and the recommended EI is particularly relevant in cardiac patients. A ventilatory threshold–based rather than a range‐based approach is advisable to define an appropriate level of EI.
Punishment, support, or discipline? Taking stock of recent debates about homeless governance in neoliberal cities
Authors: Grainger Garrett L.
Published: June 2021

An interdisciplinary debate emerged in the 1990s about the nature of homeless governance in neoliberal cities. Contributions to this discussion have interrogated the form, function, and legitimacy of contemporary homeless management. Urban scholars have differentiated three techniques of homeless governance: punishment, support, and discipline. A subset of scholarship has defined punitive governance as an illegitimate act of repression that promotes urban revitalization by excluding the homeless from urban political economies, supportive governance as a legitimate act of voluntary or coercive care that helps the homeless survive a traumatic life experience, and disciplinary governance as an illegitimate act of production that fortifies urban political economies by including rather than excluding homeless individuals into bourgeois institutions. An emerging body of research demonstrates frontline workers coordinate these techniques of governance to pursue the aims of institutional elites. This article outlines the main points of contention in this debate, examines significant empirical findings that scholars have reported, and identifies salient knowledge gaps to be addressed in future research.