bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevational environmental stress modulating species cohabitation in nests of a social insect
Authors: Viana‐Junior Arleu B. , Mitraud Paola , Dáttilo Wesley , DeSouza Og , de S. Neves Frederico
Published: September 2020

Termite nests may offer shelter to a number of species, alleviating the effects of environmental harshness. Certain elevational gradients provide variation on edaphoclimatic features, possibly generating harsh environmental conditions and boosting the number of immigrants seeking shelter within termitaria. Therefore, it is expected that metrics describing the community of termitaria cohabitants would correlate with elevation.

To test this hypothesis, we surveyed the termitophiles inhabiting 20 nests of Nasutitermes coxipoensis along an elevational gradient in a tropical mountain in Brazil. We assessed the richness, abundance, and composition (β‐diversity) of termite nests' cohabitants, testing nest volume and elevational position as explanatory covariates.

We found a positive correlation between the elevation at which termitaria were located and the richness and abundance of cohabiting termitophiles. Additionally, no correlation was found between elevational distance and dissimilarity of cohabitant communities between termitaria. Hence, the understanding that termitaria work as an ‘oasis’ of favorable microclimate is reinforced by our findings that the composition changed but was not correlated to elevation.

In short, environmental harshness boosts the establishment of distinct species of termitophiles in termitaria and it does so regardless of the invading species identity.
Termite salinity tolerance and potential for transoceanic dispersal through rafting
Authors: Chiu Chun‐I , Mullins Aaron J. , Kuan Kuan‐Chih , Lin Ming‐Der , Su Nan‐Yao , Li Hou‐Feng
Published: September 2020

Oceanic rafting through driftwood has been hypothesized to be a mechanism underlying the transoceanic distribution of termites (Order: Blattodea). To test this hypothesis, we examined the salinity tolerance of 12 termite species from eight genera and three families, namely Archotermopsidae, Kalotermitidae, and Rhinotermitidae.

Our results revealed that the survival rates of Incisitermes inamurai (Oshima), Cryptotermes domesticus (Haviland), Prorhinotermes flavus (Bugnion and Popoff), P. simplex (Hagen), and Heterotermes sp. are not affected by treatment with 3.5% saline water, strongly supported that oceanic rafting may be a mechanism underlying the insects' transoceanic distribution.

By contrast, Hodotermopsis sjostedti Holmgren, Glyptotermes satsumensis (Matsumura), Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, Co. gestroi (Wasmann), Reticulitermes virginicus (Banks), R. leptomandibularis Hsia and Fan, and R. kanmonensis Takematsu treated with saline water showed dehydration symptoms, and their mortality rates increased significantly within 12 days after treatment. These results indicate that these species are less likely to be dispersed through oceanic driftwood and that their transoceanic dispersal is rather more likely to occur through human transportation or land bridges.

Phylogenetic positions and habitats of salinity‐tolerant termites implied that the acquisition of salinity tolerance may relate to both phylogeny and coastal living.
The role of boards in the financial vulnerability of nonprofit organizations
Authors: Garcia‐Rodriguez Inigo , Romero‐Merino M. Elena , Santamaria‐Mariscal Marcos
Published: September 2020

Prior literature on nonprofit organizations (NPOs) has focused on the effect of board composition on organizational efficiency. However, this research is focused on presenting an analysis of the relationship between the financial vulnerability of NPOs and their boards. Although studies of for‐profit organizations have confirmed this relationship both theoretically and empirically, it is a novel one in the literature regarding nonprofit entities. We apply a multitheoretical approach to explain the dual role of the board (providing both advice and monitoring operations) and a multidimensional model of financial vulnerability. To this end, we use an original hand‐collected database of 64 NPOs from Spain and 800 board members. Contrary to our expectations, our results do not support the existence of a significant relationship between board composition (in terms of board structure and directors’ experience and education) and the financial vulnerability of NPOs.
Trawl fishing impacts on the status of seabed fauna in diverse regions of the globe
Authors: Mazor Tessa , Pitcher C. Roland , Rochester Wayne , Kaiser Michel J. , Hiddink Jan G. , Jennings Simon , Amoroso Ricardo , McConnaughey Robert A. , Rijnsdorp Adriaan D. , Parma Ana M. , Suuronen Petri , Collie Jeremy , Sciberras Marija , Atkinson Lara , Durholtz Deon , Ellis Jim R , Bolam Stefan G. , Schratzberger Michaela , Couce Elena , Eggleton Jacqueline , Garcia Clement , Kainge Paulus , Paulus Sarah , Kathena Johannes N. , Gogina Mayya , van Denderen P. Daniël , Keller Aimee A. , Horness Beth H. , Hilborn Ray
Published: September 2020

Bottom trawl fishing is a controversial activity. It yields about a quarter of the world's wild seafood, but also has impacts on the marine environment. Recent advances have quantified and improved understanding of large‐scale impacts of trawling on the seabed. However, such information needs to be coupled with distributions of benthic invertebrates (benthos) to assess whether these populations are being sustained under current trawling regimes. This study collated data from 13 diverse regions of the globe spanning four continents. Within each region, we combined trawl intensity distributions and predicted abundance distributions of benthos groups with impact and recovery parameters for taxonomic classes in a risk assessment model to estimate benthos status. The exposure of 220 predicted benthos‐group distributions to trawling intensity (as swept area ratio) ranged between 0% and 210% (mean = 37%) of abundance. However, benthos status, an indicator of the depleted abundance under chronic trawling pressure as a proportion of untrawled state, ranged between 0.86 and 1 (mean = 0.99), with 78% of benthos groups > 0.95. Mean benthos status was lowest in regions of Europe and Africa, and for taxonomic classes Bivalvia and Gastropoda. Our results demonstrate that while spatial overlap studies can help infer general patterns of potential risk, actual risks cannot be evaluated without using an assessment model that incorporates trawl impact and recovery metrics. These quantitative outputs are essential for sustainability assessments, and together with reference points and thresholds, can help managers ensure use of the marine environment is sustainable under the ecosystem approach to management.
Energetics of Acidianus ambivalens growth in response to oxygen availability
Authors: Hart Chloe , Gorman‐Lewis Drew
Published: September 2020

All life requires energy to drive metabolic reactions such as growth and cell maintenance; therefore, fluctuations in energy availability can alter microbial activity. There is a gap in our knowledge concerning how energy availability affects the growth of extreme chemolithoautotrophs. Toward this end, we investigated the growth of thermoacidophile Acidianus ambivalens during sulfur oxidation under aerobic to microaerophilic conditions. Calorimetry was used to measure enthalpy (ΔHinc) of microbial activity, and chemical changes in growth media were measured to calculate Gibbs energy change (ΔGinc) during incubation. In all experiments, Gibbs energy was primarily dissipated through the release of heat, which suggests enthalpy‐driven growth. In microaerophilic conditions, growth was significantly more efficient in terms of biomass yield (defined as C‐mol biomass per mole sulfur consumed) and resulted in lower ΔGinc and ΔHinc. ΔGinc in oxygen‐limited (OL) and oxygen‐ and CO2‐limited (OCL) microaerophilic growth conditions resulted in averages of −1.44 × 103 kJ/C‐mol and −7.56 × 102 kJ/C‐mol, respectively, and average ΔHinc values of −1.11 × 105 kJ/C‐mol and −4.43 × 104 kJ/C‐mol, respectively. High‐oxygen experiments resulted in lower biomass yield values, an increase in ΔGinc to −1.71 × 104 kJ/C‐mol, and more exothermic ΔHinc values of −4.71 × 105 kJ/C‐mol. The observed inefficiency in high‐oxygen conditions may suggest larger maintenance energy demands due to oxidative stresses and a preference for growth in microaerophilic environments.
Parasitoids indicate major climate‐induced shifts in arctic communities
Authors: Kankaanpää Tuomas , Vesterinen Eero , Hardwick Bess , Schmidt Niels M. , Andersson Tommi , Aspholm Paul E. , Barrio Isabel C. , Beckers Niklas , Bêty Joël , Birkemoe Tone , DeSiervo Melissa , Drotos Katherine H. I. , Ehrich Dorothee , Gilg Olivier , Gilg Vladimir , Hein Nils , Høye Toke T. , Jakobsen Kristian M. , Jodouin Camille , Jorna Jesse , Kozlov Mikhail V. , Kresse Jean‐Claude , Leandri‐Breton Don‐Jean , Lecomte Nicolas , Loonen Maarten , Marr Philipp , Monckton Spencer K. , Olsen Maia , Otis Josée‐Anne , Pyle Michelle , Roos Ruben E. , Raundrup Katrine , Rozhkova Daria , Sabard Brigitte , Sokolov Aleksandr , Sokolova Natalia , Solecki Anna M. , Urbanowicz Christine , Villeneuve Catherine , Vyguzova Evgenya , Zverev Vitali , Roslin Tomas
Published: September 2020

Climatic impacts are especially pronounced in the Arctic, which as a region is warming twice as fast as the rest of the globe. Here, we investigate how mean climatic conditions and rates of climatic change impact parasitoid insect communities in 16 localities across the Arctic. We focus on parasitoids in a widespread habitat, Dryas heathlands, and describe parasitoid community composition in terms of larval host use (i.e., parasitoid use of herbivorous Lepidoptera vs. pollinating Diptera) and functional groups differing in their closeness of host associations (koinobionts vs. idiobionts). Of the latter, we expect idiobionts—as being less fine‐tuned to host development—to be generally less tolerant to cold temperatures, since they are confined to attacking hosts pupating and overwintering in relatively exposed locations. To further test our findings, we assess whether similar climatic variables are associated with host abundances in a 22 year time series from Northeast Greenland. We find sites which have experienced a temperature rise in summer while retaining cold winters to be dominated by parasitoids of Lepidoptera, with the reverse being true for the parasitoids of Diptera. The rate of summer temperature rise is further associated with higher levels of herbivory, suggesting higher availability of lepidopteran hosts and changes in ecosystem functioning. We also detect a matching signal over time, as higher summer temperatures, coupled with cold early winter soils, are related to high herbivory by lepidopteran larvae, and to declines in the abundance of dipteran pollinators. Collectively, our results suggest that in parts of the warming Arctic, Dryas is being simultaneously exposed to increased herbivory and reduced pollination. Our findings point to potential drastic and rapid consequences of climate change on multitrophic‐level community structure and on ecosystem functioning and highlight the value of collaborative, systematic sampling effort.
Asymmetric responses of ecosystem productivity to rainfall anomalies vary inversely with mean annual rainfall over the conterminous United States
Authors: Al‐Yaari Amen , Wigneron Jean‐Pierre , Ciais Philippe , Reichstein Markus , Ballantyne Ashley , Ogée Jerome , Ducharne Agnès , Swenson Jennifer J. , Frappart Frédéric , Fan Lei , Wingate Lisa , Li Xiaojun , Hufkens Koen , Knapp Alan K.
Published: September 2020

The CONterminous United States (CONUS) presents a large range of climate conditions and biomes where terrestrial primary productivity and its inter‐annual variability are controlled regionally by rainfall and/or temperature. Here, the response of ecosystem productivity to those climate variables was investigated across different biomes from 2010 to 2018 using three climate datasets of precipitation, air temperature or drought severity, combined with several proxies of ecosystem productivity: a remote sensing product of aboveground biomass, an net primary productivity (NPP) remote sensing product, an NPP model‐based product and four gross primary productivity products. We used an asymmetry index (AI) where positive AI indicates a greater increase of ecosystem productivity in wet years compared to the decline in dry years, and negative AI indicates a greater decline of ecosystem productivity in dry years compared to the increase in wet years. We found consistent spatial patterns of AI across the CONUS for the different products, with negative asymmetries over the Great Plains and positive asymmetries over the southwestern CONUS. Shrubs and, to a lesser extent, evergreen forests show a persistent positive asymmetry, whilst (natural) grasslands appear to have transitioned from positive to negative anomalies during the last decade. The general tendency of dominant negative asymmetry response for ecosystem productivity across the CONUS appears to be influenced by the negative asymmetry of precipitation anomalies. AI was found to be a function of mean rainfall: more positive AIs were found in dry areas where plants are adapted to drought and take advantage of rainfall pulses, and more negative AIs were found in wet areas, with a threshold delineating the two regimes corresponding to a mean annual rainfall of 200–400 mm/year.
Gender differences in pay among university faculty in Russia
Authors: Rudakov Victor N. , Prakhov Ilya A.
Published: September 2020

The study focuses on the issue of gender discrimination in pay among university faculty in Russia, a country with an exceptionally high share of female faculty in higher education. Using a comprehensive and nationally representative survey of university faculty, we found that although women in academia earn considerably less than men, gender inequality among university faculty is lower than in the non‐academic sector. The study shows that gender differences in pay can be mainly explained by vertical gender segregation: women are less likely to achieve senior positions in the university hierarchy, which brings a high wage premium. Another explanation is horizontal segregation, when there is a prevalence of male faculty in Moscow‐based universities, which provide a considerable wage premium compared to regional ones. A decomposition of the gender wage gap shows that slightly more than half of it can be explained by observable factors, while the rest can be attributed to discrimination and unobservable characteristics. Within the unexplained part the major part can be attributed to favoritism towards men and the minor part to discrimination against women. We found some evidence that faculty in research universities, which actively implement performance‐related pay, experience less gender inequality.
Law and legal culture in Anglo‐Saxon England
Authors: Rabin Andrew
Published: September 2020

The reception and study of pre‐Conquest legal texts can never be fully disentangled from the historical and political contexts within which they transpired. Indeed, the historiography of early English law has been shaped as much by the desires, prejudices and ideological commitments of its historians as it has by the texts themselves. Modern scholarship has not ‘risen above’ its predecessors but is instead guided (and at times governed) by the history of the laws' reception from the post‐Conquest period onwards. The boundaries of the Old English legal corpus are far more fluid than often recognized and its survival has been determined by political forces and social trends that reshaped and recontextualized it in ways that those involved in its composition may not have intended or even understood. To better understand how the modern study of Anglo‐Saxon legal culture has been and continues to be shaped by these influences, this article first outlines a brief history of the reception of early English legal texts from the Conquest onwards before turning to a review of the major themes and trends in contemporary scholarship. As will become apparent, for modern scholars, the interpretation of legal records, the historical narrative they appear to construct and even the parameters of the corpus itself have all been shaped by the nostalgia, biases and scholarly priorities of their predecessors.
Efficacy of Behaviour Change Techniques to improve oral hygiene control of individuals undergoing orthodontic therapy. A systematic review
Authors: Discepoli Nicola , Mirra Raffaele , Marruganti Crystal , Beneforti Cecilia , Doldo Tiziana
Published: September 2020

Aim

This study aims to review the available evidence on the efficacy of behaviour change techniques to improve compliance in young orthodontic patients and to compare these with conventional oral hygiene instructions.

Methods

The review was conducted according to the PRISMA statement. PICO method was used to define eligibility criteria. Two independent reviewers performed the research, examined electronic databases (MEDLINE, Scopus and CENTRAL) and manually checked relevant journals. Only RCTs with more than 10 participants and 3 months follow‐up were included. Data extraction and their qualitative analysis were performed for included studies.

Results

Search strategy identified 320 articles. After screening for titles, abstracts and full texts, 10 articles were then selected for qualitative analysis. High methodological heterogeneity was present among studies and therefore no meta‐analysis was performed. Low risk of bias was detected for one study only. The most common intervention was “mobile phone communication,” which was investigated in five studies. Motivational interviewing, repeated reinforcements and visual‐aided approach were also examined.

Conclusion

The interest in remote control of patients compliance appears to be fruitful, nonetheless there is no consensus as to a unique treatment protocol. Every other treatment looks beneficial but higher methodological homogeneity should be sought for in future investigations.
The effect of two calcium silicate‐based and one epoxy resin‐based root canal sealer on postoperative pain: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Aslan T. , Dönmez Özkan H.
Published: September 2020

Aim

To compare the effect of two calcium silicate‐based (Endoseal MTA and EndoSequence BC Sealer) and an epoxy resin‐based (AH Plus) root canal sealer on postoperative pain following single‐visit root canal treatment on molar teeth.

Methodology

Patients (n = 90) having one first or second molar tooth diagnosed with asymptomatic irreversible pulpitis were randomly divided into three groups according to the sealer used (n = 30) and were treated by two endodontists having at least 10 years of experience. All patients received a single‐visit root canal treatment. After the treatments, postoperative pain scores and analgesic intake were recorded at 6, 12, 24 and 48 h, and 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 days. The data were analysed statistically using non‐parametric Kruskal–Wallis tests (for the comparisons of the age and VAS scores), Friedman tests (for the assessments of the changes in pain scores over time), chi‐squared tests (for the comparisons of categorical variables) and Spearman’s correlation test (for the correlation assessments of the age and gender factors with postoperative pain; α = 0.05).

Results

There were no significant differences amongst the groups in terms of postoperative pain at any time‐points assessed (P > 0.05) nor for analgesic intake of patients amongst the groups (P > 0.05). Analgesic intake decreased significantly after 12 h in all groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The sealers tested in this study were associated with similar levels of postoperative pain and were associated with a similar intake of analgesics.
Circular economy in cementitious ceramics: Replacement of hydrated lime with a stoichiometric balanced combination of clay and marble waste
Authors: Marvila Markssuel T. , de Azevedo Afonso R. G. , Alexandre Jonas , Colorado Henry , Pereira Antunes Maria L. , Vieira Carlos M. F.
Published: September 2020

Cementitious ceramics, produced from the hydration of cement and hydrated lime, are responsible for a great deal of damage to the environment due to the high emission of CO2 that occurs in the production of cement and lime. Therefore, the objective of this work was to substitute the hydrated lime with a combination of clay residue and marble waste extracted from ceramic and ornamental rock producing industries, respectively, which constitutes a circular economy for the ceramic industry related to masonry applications. Ceramics were produced in the proportion 1:1:6:1.5 (cement:lime:sand:water), through the molding procedure, and were studied by replacing hydrated lime with 100% clay residue and 100% marble residue, in addition to stoichiometric calculated parts of marble to clay. The molar ratios used were 1:1, 1:2, and 2:1 (marble:clay). Tests of consistency, incorporated air content, water retention, compression strength, density, water absorption by capillarity, adhesion, and electrical resistivity were performed. The results obtained demonstrate that the use of residue of marble and clay together, as long as they are correctly balanced, provides a high gain in technological properties, enabling the circular economy of cementitious ceramics, mainly for the composition 1 marble:1clay, which presented the best properties, both in the fresh and hardened state. The economic analysis carried out proved the financial gains for the industrial sectors involved (civil construction, ornamental rock, and ceramic).
Using betaxolol for the prevention of paronychia induced by epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors: a case–control cohort study
Authors: Lu Chun‐Wei , Wang Ting‐Ya , Yen Chi‐Feng , Chen Kang‐Hua , Wu Chiao‐En , Wang Chih‐Liang , Hsu Ping‐Chih , Fang Yueh‐Fu , Li Shih‐Hong , Ko How‐Wen , Tseng Li‐Chuan , Shih Feng‐Ya , Lin Yu‐Jr , Chen Mei‐Jun , Chen Chun‐Bing , Su Pang Jong‐Hwei , Chung Wen‐Hung , Ko Yu‐Shien
Published: September 2020

Background

High rates of posttreatment discomfort, infection, recurrence, and increased time to return to work have been noted after nail plate avulsion resulting from epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor(EGFR‐TKI)‐induced paronychia, which may even interrupt the course of treatment for EGFR‐TKI therapy. Thus, we conducted this study to determine how effectively a topical β‐blocker, betaxolol, prevents EGFR‐TKI‐induced paronychia.

Methods

This case–control cohort study included a total of 131 non‐small‐cell lung cancer patients. The prevention group comprised 40 patients treated with topical betaxolol 0.25% solution to prevent paronychia while they received EGFR‐TKI therapy. The control group comprised 91 patients who did not preventively use topical betaxolol 0.25% solution while receiving EGFR‐TKI therapy. The patients’ age, gender, antineoplastic regimen, duration of antineoplastic treatment before the appearance of lesions, number of involved digits (fingernails or toenails) with lesions, grading of paronychia, and pain score were recorded.

Results

In terms of the cumulative incidence of paronychia, significant differences (P < 0.01) were noted at both the 2nd and 3rd months after starting EGFR‐TKIs. Furthermore, the average visual analogue scale scores were 3.125 and 6.29 in the prevention group and control group, respectively (P < 0.01). The average grades of paronychia were 1.5 and 2.12 in the prevention group and control group, respectively (P < 0.01). The average numbers of involved digits were 2.25 (range: 1–5 digits) in the prevention group and 3.03 (range: 1–7) in the control group (P = 0.07).

Conclusions

Preventively using topical betaxolol can significantly decrease the incidence, VAS score, and grading of EGFR‐TKI‐induced paronychia.
Biological activity of rice extract and the inhibition potential of rice extract, rice volatile compounds and their combination against α‐glucosidase, α‐amylase and tyrosinase
Authors: Sansenya Sompong , Payaka Apirak , Wannasut Wachirawit , Hua Yanling , Chumanee Saowapa
Published: September 2020

Rice is produced for consumption and traditional medicine. Rice is also used as an ingredient in cosmetic products. In this study, the author investigated the biological activity and inhibition potential against α‐glucosidase, α‐amylase and tyrosinase activity of rice extract (black rice [BR], red rice [RR] and white rice [WR]), rice volatile compounds, rice extract combined with volatile compounds, rice extract combined with standard inhibitors and volatile compounds combined with standard inhibitors. The results revealed that the free‐radical scavenging capacity of rice extract is related to the phenolic content and flavonoids. BR showed the highest potential to inhibit α‐glucosidase and α‐amylase activity, whereas WR showed the highest potential to inhibit tyrosinase activity. Among rice volatile compounds, vanillin and vanillyl alcohol had the highest inhibition potential against α‐glucosidase and α‐amylase, respectively, whereas guaiacol had the highest inhibitory activity against tyrosinase. Molecular docking supported by the high binding efficiency was also obtained from vanillin and guaiacol when located at the active site of these enzymes. The combination of RR with acarbose (AB) had the highest inhibition potential and showed a synergic effect on both α‐glucosidase and α‐amylase. Interestingly, the combination of rice extract (BR, RR and WR) and vanillin and vanillyl alcohol had a synergic effect on α‐amylase. Moreover, the combination of WR and vanillyl alcohol had the highest inhibition potential and showed a synergic effect on tyrosinase, whereas rice volatile compounds had a synergic effect on tyrosinase obtained from 2‐pentylfuran/kojic acid (KA), vanillin/KA and vanillyl alcohol/KA.
Delivering inflammatory bowel disease care across distance
Authors: Lim Ming Han , McMahon Anna , Radford‐Smith Graham
Published: September 2020

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients living in regional or remote Queensland are often disadvantaged by limited access to IBD specialist care. Telehealth clinics could potentially address this disparity and improve patient outcomes.

Aim

We report the impact of the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital (RBWH) IBD telehealth clinics from March 2011 to December 2017, including patient satisfaction and healthcare activity.

Methods

Patient satisfaction surveys were collected prospectively between March 2011 and March 2012. Healthcare activity was assessed through occasions of service (OOS), number of enrolled patients on biologics and IBD related admissions to RBWH.

Results

Overall, 3764 OOS were completed including 576 new patient and 3188 follow‐up visits. Mean age at first telehealth visit was 44 years (range: 16–87 years). The IBD telehealth clinics were well accepted with 99% of the first 153 patients surveyed choosing to continue with telehealth and 94% rated the telehealth experience as very good or excellent. The net number of patients under active review increased from 125 patients in 2011 to 345 patients in 2017. Enrolled patients on biologics also increased from 9 patients in 2011 to 63 patients in 2017. There was an initial dip in annual IBD related admissions to RBWH in 2011 but these have progressively increased over time although the average length of inpatient stay annually has remained stable.

Conclusion

The RBWH IBD telehealth clinics have shown that telemedicine is well received and can be used successfully to deliver IBD specialist care to patients living in regional or remote areas.
Hepatitis B in the Northern Territory: insights into the changing epidemiology of an ancient condition
Authors: Qama Ashleigh , Allard Nicole , Cowie Benjamin , Davis Joshua S. , Davies Jane
Published: September 2020

Background

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are disproportionately affected by hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. A proposed mismatch between standard vaccines and the HBV/C4 sub‐genotype prevalent in Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory (NT) may reduce vaccine effectiveness.

Aims

To determine HBV prevalence in the NT by Indigenous status and to explore patterns of immunity following implementation of universal vaccination, using a large longitudinal diagnostic dataset.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of all available HBV serology results in the NT from 1991 to 2011 was conducted, with HBV prevalence and vaccination status analysed according to adigenous status, age and sex using individuals' patterns of HBsAg, anti‐HBs and anti‐HBc serology over repeated tests.

Results

100 790 individuals were tested (33.4% Indigenous) between 1991 and 2011 (26.1% of the 2011 NT population), with a total of 211 802 tests performed. In 2011, the proportion of HBV positive individuals in the NT was 3.17% (5.22% in Indigenous populations) compared to previous 2011 estimates of 1.70% (3.70% in Indigenous populations). The vaccine failure rate was lower than expected with only one presumed vaccinated person subsequently developing HBsAg positivity (0.02%). Evidence of suboptimal vaccine efficacy by breakthrough anti‐HBc positivity in vaccinated individuals was demonstrated in 3.1% of the vaccinated cohort, of which 86.4% identified as Indigenous (HR 1.17). No difference in HBeAg positivity or seroconversion was observed between Indigenous and non‐Indigenous individuals living with CHB.

Conclusions

The burden of CHB in Indigenous people in the NT has previously been underestimated. A higher HBV prevalence in the NT than described in previous cross‐sectional studies was found, including a higher prevalence in Indigenous people. Evidence of suboptimal vaccine efficacy was demonstrated predominantly in Indigenous individuals.
Development and evaluation of a digital education tool for medical students in wound care
Authors: Schlupeck Mischa , Stubner Birgit , Erfurt‐Berge Cornelia
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate an interactive, video‐enhanced, and case‐based online course for medical students. We chose a case about wound care since this topic is still underrepresented in the medical curriculum. First, instructional videos were created to teach practical skills in wound care. These were implemented into a case‐based online course, using the online learning platform ILIAS. In a comparative initial and final survey, numbers of users were assessed, content and structure of the course, as well as the thematic interest of the students and self‐assessed gain of competence, were evaluated. Since the summer of 2019, 310 students have successfully completed the course. The survey data showed a high participation rate and a positive response regarding the content as well as the structural concept. Most of the students rated the content within the course as useful for their future medical work (86.1%) and the gain of knowledge superior to a traditional lecture (69.4%). Self‐assessments of video‐mediated skills showed a significant increase in subjectively perceived competence. The online course is an efficient way to reach many students by the small use of resources. It resembles an option to arouse growing interest in wound care in medical students.
Magnetic properties of La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 under the pressure and the transport property under the magnetic field
Authors: Zhang Xian , Han YuYan , Kan Xucai , Wang Min , Rao Rui , Zheng Ganhong , Ma Yongqing
Published: September 2020

Polycrystalline La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 sample (LSMO) was synthesized by the solid phase reaction; it exhibits the paramagnetic‐ferromagnetic transition at Tc = 362 K at the ambient pressure; it is paramagnetic metallic state above Tc and the ferromagnetic metallic state below Tc. It was observed that the pressure effect depends on the temperature range: (a) In the paramagnetic region, the magnetization M hardly changes with the pressure P, that is, ΔM≈0. There exist the antiferromagnetic (AFM) coupled ferromagnetic clusters in the paramagnetic region, and the pressure enhances the AFM coupling. (b) In the temperature range around Tc, the pressure increases M, that is, ΔM > 0, with the concomitant increase in Tc; the average pressure coefficient dTc/dP is 5.40 K/GPa at P = .74 GPa, much smaller than 15.47 and 15.90 K/GPa for La0.7Ca0.3MnO3 and La0.9Ca0.1MnO3, respectively, due to the different distortion degree of MnO6 octahedra in Ca and Sr doped manganites. (c) In the temperature region below Tc, the pressure reduces M, that is, ΔM < 0. M is determined by the competition between the Mn3+‐O‐Mn4+ double exchange and the interparticle dipolar interaction. The pressure enhances the interparticle dipolar interaction, leading to a significant decrease in magnetization. The resistivity of LSMO exhibits the metallic behavior in the temperature range of 5 K~370 K; it decreases as the applied magnetic field H increases from 0 to 7 T, that is, the magnetoresistance effect which is more significant around Tc. The fitting to the low‐temperature resistivity shows that the applied magnetic field reduces the scattering from the grain boundary, electron, phonon, and magnon, especially reduces the electron‐electron scattering.
Functional status mediates the association of nutritional status with depressive symptoms in patients with heart failure
Authors: Zhang Xiuting , Zou Huijing , Hou Danhua , He Dengxin , Fan Xiuzhen
Published: September 2020

Aims

The decline of nutritional status and depressive symptoms are pandemic in heart failure patients and functional status may play a pivotal role between these. This study aimed to determine whether nutritional status is associated with depressive symptoms and whether functional status mediates this relationship in heart failure patients.

Design

This was a secondary analysis of a cross‐sectional study.

Methods

The data were collected from November 2015–April 2016. Heart failure patients (N = 254) being hospitalized were included in this secondary analysis. The Depression Sub‐Scale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Duke Activity Status Index were used to assess patients' depressive symptoms and functional status. The nutritional status of patients was calculated using the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index.

Results

In this study, the average scores of depressive symptoms, nutritional status and functional status were 4.91 (SD 3.12), 102.38 (SD 6.57) and 20.58 (SD 8.96) respectively. Out of the 254 patients, 46 patients (18.1%) had significant depressive symptoms (the score of Depression Sub‐Scale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale ≥ 8) and 55 (21.7%) suffered from malnutrition (the score of Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index ≤ 98). In the multiple regression analyses, nutritional status was negatively associated with depressive symptoms (β = −0.142, p = .02) and functional status mediated the relationship between nutritional status and depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Many patients with heart failure have malnutrition and depressive symptoms. Functional status plays a mediating role in the relationship between nutritional status and depressive symptoms.

Impact

To relieve depressive symptoms in patients with heart failure, it is of importance to improve the functional status, especially for those with poor nutritional status.
Mindfulness and social identity: Predicting well‐being in a high‐stress environment
Authors: Adarves‐Yorno Inmaculada , Mahdon Michelle , Schueltke Leonie , Koschate‐Reis Miriam , Tarrant Mark
Published: September 2020

Social identity processes and mindfulness are two important predictors of well‐being. Yet, to date, these predictors have been studied independently, within separate research fields. This paper aims to provide an initial integration of these two research fields. Our research was conducted in a context characterized by multiple chronic stressors: A maximum security prison in Kenya. In particular, two studies measured social identification with a mindfulness group and dispositional mindfulness. We investigated the effects of these constructs on three well‐being measures: mental well‐being, resilience (Studies 1 & 2), and reduction of substance use (Study 2). Our results, replicated across two studies (Study 1: N = 82, Study 2: N = 145), revealed that both social identification with the mindfulness group and mindfulness predicted psychological outcomes. Social identification explained variance in mental well‐being and resilience in addition to the variance explained by mindfulness. Study 2 additionally showed that both identification and mindfulness were positively related to a reduction in substance use. However, when examined together, social identification held all the explanatory power, and mindfulness was no longer a significant predictor. From the overall results, we argue that social identity processes can be fruitfully combined with mindfulness in well‐being programs delivered in high‐stress environments such as prisons. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Taxon pulse dynamics, episodic dispersal and host colonization across Beringia drive diversification of a Holarctic tapeworm assemblage
Authors: Haas Genevieve M. S. , Hoberg Eric P. , Cook Joseph A. , Henttonen Heikki , Makarikov Arseny A. , Gallagher Sarah R. , Dokuchaev Nikolai E. , Galbreath Kurt E.
Published: September 2020

Aim

We test the predictions of the Stockholm Paradigm, a synthesis of eco‐evolutionary theory explaining the nature of faunal assembly, host range and parasite diversification. Faunal diversification and assembly, manifested in patterns of host colonization, co‐adaptation and parasite speciation, are predicted to emerge as a consequence of alternating episodes of ecological disruption and stability. Specifically, for a diverse cestode genus (Arostrilepis), we evaluate the number and direction of Pleistocene dispersal events across Beringia, the number and relative timing of host colonization events and the relationship between host and parasite biogeographic histories and associations through time.

Location

Beringia and adjacent temperate to arctic biomes in North America and Eurasia.

Taxon

Arostrilepis (Cyclophyllidea: Hymenolepididae) and its rodent hosts.

Methods

Multi‐locus phylogenetic reconstruction and biogeographic ancestral range estimation.

Results

Arostrilepis lineages crossed Beringia eastward into North America a minimum of four times and westward into Asia twice in association with temporally disjunct geographic expansions of three major tribes of cricetid rodents (Arvicolini, Myodini, Lemmini). Inferences of ancestral host associations support at least nine instances of host colonization involving shifts from one rodent tribe or family to another. Several previously unrecognized lineages of Arostrilepis are revealed.

Main conclusions

Consistent with expectations of the Stockholm Paradigm, episodes of intercontinental dispersal were both frequent in the history of Arostrilepis and preceded a majority of inferred host‐colonization events. Events of historical geographic expansion created numerous opportunities for development of novel host–parasite associations through ecological fitting, as parasites tracked historically conserved resources available across diverse host taxa. Beringia played a major role in shaping rodent/parasite assemblages by mediating dispersal between the northern continents during glacial episodes of the Pleistocene, rather than by serving as a zone of refugial isolation.
Calycosin inhibited autophagy and oxidative stress in chronic kidney disease skeletal muscle atrophy by regulating AMPK/SKP2/CARM1 signalling pathway
Authors: Hu Rong , Wang Ming‐qing , Liu Ling‐yu , You Hai‐yan , Wu Xiao‐hui , Liu Yang‐yang , Wang Yan‐jing , Lu Lu , Xiao Wei , Wei Lian‐bo
Published: September 2020

Skeletal muscle atrophy is a common and serious complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Oxidative stress and autophagy are the primary molecular mechanisms involved in muscle atrophy. Calycosin, a major component of Radix astragali, exerts anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidative stress and anti‐autophagy effects. We investigated the effects and mechanisms of calycosin on skeletal muscle atrophy in vivo and in vitro. 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6 Nx) rats were used as a model of CKD. We evaluated bodyweight and levels of serum creatinine (SCr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum albumin (Alb). H&E staining, cell apoptosis, oxidative stress biomarkers, autophagosome and LC3A/B levels were performed and evaluated in skeletal muscle of CKD rat. Calycosin treatment improved bodyweight and renal function, alleviated muscle atrophy (decreased the levels of MuRF1 and MAFbx), increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) activity and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in skeletal muscle of CKD rats. Importantly, calycosin reduced autophagosome formation, down‐regulated the expression of LC3A/B and ATG7 through inhibition of AMPK and FOXO3a, and increased SKP2, which resulted in decreased expression of CARM1, H3R17me2a. Similar results were observed in C2C12 cells treated with TNF‐α and calycosin. Our findings showed that calycosin inhibited oxidative stress and autophagy in CKD induced skeletal muscle atrophy and in TNF‐α‐induced C2C12 myotube atrophy, partially by regulating the AMPK/SKP2/CARM1 signalling pathway.
Co‐targeting of lysosome and mitophagy in cancer stem cells with chloroquine analogues and antibiotics
Authors: Al‐Bari Md. Abdul Alim
Published: September 2020

The catabolic autophagy eliminates cytoplasmic components and organelles via lysosomes. Non‐selective bulk autophagy and selective autophagy (mitophagy) are linked in intracellular homeostasis both normal and cancer cells. Autophagy has complex and paradoxical dual role in cancers; it can play either tumour suppressor or tumour promoter depending on the tumour type, stage, microenvironment and genetic context. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) cause tumour recurrence and promote resistant to therapy for driving poor clinical consequences. Thus, new healing strategies are urgently needed to annihilate and eradicate CSCs. As chloroquine (CQ) analogues show positive clinical outcome in several clinical trials either standalone or combination with several chemotherapies. Moreover, CQ analogues are known to eliminate CSCs via altering DNA methylation. However, several obstacles such as higher concentrations and dose‐dependent toxicity are noticeable in the treatment of cancers. As tumour cells predominantly rely on mitochondrial actions, mitochondrial targeting FDA‐approved antibiotics are reported to effectively eradicate CSCs alone or combination with chemotherapy. However, antibiotics cause metabolic glycolytic shift in cancer cells for survival and repopulation. This review will provide a sketch of the inhibiting roles of current chloroquine analogues and antibiotic combination in CSC autophagy process and discuss the possibility that pre‐clinical and clinical potential therapeutic strategy for anticancer therapy.
Trends in the effects of pre‐transplant diabetes on mortality and cardiovascular events after kidney transplantation
Authors: Jeon Ja Young , Kim Soo Jung , Ha Kyoung Hwa , Park Ji Hyun , Park Bumhee , Oh Chang‐Kwon , Han Seung Jin
Published: September 2020

Aims/Introduction

It is not clear whether survival in kidney transplant recipients with pre‐transplant diabetes has improved over the past decades. We compared the rates of mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) after renal transplantation in patients with and without pre‐transplant diabetes. Furthermore, we investigated whether transplant era and recipient age affected the association between diabetes status and adverse events.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 691 patients who underwent renal transplantation between 1994 and 2016 at a single tertiary center. We compared the incidences of post‐transplant mortality and four‐point MACE in patients with and without pre‐transplant diabetes using Kaplan–Meier analysis and the Cox proportional hazard model, and assessed the interactions between diabetes status and transplant era and recipient age.

Results

Of 691 kidney recipients, 143 (20.7%) had pre‐transplant diabetes. The mean follow‐up duration was 94.5 months. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that patients with pre‐transplant diabetes had higher incidences of post‐transplant mortality and four‐point MACE compared with those without pre‐transplant diabetes (log–rank test, P < 0.001 for both). After adjusting for potential confounding factors, pre‐transplant diabetes was associated with an increased risk of post‐transplant mortality and four‐point MACE (hazard ratio 1.90, 95% confidence interval 1.05–3.44, P = 0.034; and hazard ratio 1.75; 95% confidence interval 1.02–3.00, P = 0.043, respectively). The associations between pre‐transplant diabetes status and all‐cause mortality and four‐point MACE were not affected by transplant era or recipient age.

Conclusions

Pre‐transplant diabetes remains a significant risk factor for mortality and four‐point MACE in kidney transplant recipients.
Potato creep analysis during storage using experimental measurement and finite element method (FEM)
Authors: Shahgholi Gholamhossein , Latifi Meysam , Jahanbakhshi Ahmad
Published: September 2020

Analysis of static forces has an important role in bulk storage of agricultural products. The forces exerted on individual fruits, vegetables, or grains cause mechanical damage to them and lead to their permanent deformation. By analyzing the forces involved, we can manage them with proper methods and prevent the creation of waste. In this research, by conducting experiments, the required parameters for potato samples were obtained and simulated through the finite element method under load. Creep and tension tests were conducted on a cylindrical potato sample with the diameter and height of 25 mm. Apparent shear modulus had been extracted over time and imported to the Abaqus 2016. Simulation results showed that the maximum tension of 0.061 MPa occurred in layers near the pressure plate. Tension concentration caused the maximum tension of 0.07 MPa in the center of the potato. In accordance with the created tension, maximum displacement of 0.35 mm occurred in contact layer with the pressure plate and by moving away from this plate, displacement decreased linearly and reached to zero at bottom layer. The results showed that measuring the forces in storage and knowing the forces applied to the product can be effective in controlling the storage quality of agricultural products and reducing waste.

Practical Applications

Analysis of static forces has important role in bulk storage of agricultural products. By analyzing the involving forces, they can be managed with proper methods and prevent the creation of waste. This paper found that maximum stress and damage occur at force inserted areas and in areas of tubers are in contact with external material like transporting and storage boxes. Then, it should be tried to fabricate new flexible and viscoelastic materials such as polymers which acts like tubers in contact areas to decrease tubers’ stress to minimum value at contact points. Also more attention should be paid to stress concentration that may occur inside tubers which can lead to crush and destroy the product. Stacking more tubers on storage which can increase inserted stress beyond the value that leads to stress concentration should be avoided.