bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does agricultural official development assistance facilitate foreign direct investment in agriculture: Evidence from 63 developing countries
Authors: Tian Junyan
Published: January 2023

Although past studies have separately explored the direct impact of agriculture official development assistance (ODA) and foreign development investment (FDI) on agricultural production, the nexus between these two elements is often neglected. This article aims to understand the linkage between agricultural ODA and FDI, using data from 63 developing countries from 1991 to 2019. Poisson pseudo maximum likelihood estimations reveal that agricultural ODA considerably promotes FDI in the agriculture, fishery and forestry sectors (FDI_aff) by approximately 0.5%, while its impact on FDI in the food, beverages and tobacco industries (FDI_fbt) is overall insignificant. Geographical and ecological conditions play a decisive role in accounting for FDI in agriculture. While coastal and land‐rich countries receive a significantly higher amount of FDI_aff and FDI_fbt, tropical countries are evidently more attractive destinations for FDI_fbt. The empirical analysis also shows that a peaceful social environment encourages FDI_aff. Well‐established legal systems and reductions in corruption facilitate FDI_aff, whereas the impact of overall institutional quality on agricultural FDI is insignificant. Results suggest that donors prioritise agricultural initiatives with higher positive spillover effects, such as programmes supporting food crop production and agricultural research.
Sourcing high tissue quality brains from deceased wild primates with known socio‐ecology
Authors: Gräßle Tobias , Crockford Catherine , Eichner Cornelius , Girard‐Buttoz Cédric , Jäger Carsten , Kirilina Evgeniya , Lipp Ilona , Düx Ariane , Edwards Luke , Jauch Anna , Kopp Kathrin S. , Paquette Michael , Pine Kerrin ,   EBC Consortium, Haun Daniel B. M. , McElreath Richard , Anwander Alfred , Gunz Philipp , Morawski Markus , Friederici Angela D. , Weiskopf Nikolaus , Leendertz Fabian H. , Wittig Roman M.
Published: January 2023

The selection pressures that drove dramatic encephalisation processes through the mammal lineage remain elusive, as does knowledge of brain structure reorganisation through this process. In particular, considerable structural brain changes are present across the primate lineage, culminating in the complex human brain that allows for unique behaviours such as language and sophisticated tool use. To understand this evolution, a diverse sample set of humans' closest relatives with varying socio‐ecologies is needed. However, current brain banks predominantly curate brains from primates that died in zoological gardens. We try to address this gap by establishing a field pipeline mitigating the challenges associated with brain extractions of wild primates in their natural habitat.

The success of our approach is demonstrated by our ability to acquire a novel brain sample of deceased primates with highly variable socio‐ecological exposure and a particular focus on wild chimpanzees. Methods in acquiring brain tissue from wild settings are comprehensively explained, highlighting the feasibility of conducting brain extraction procedures under strict biosafety measures by trained veterinarians in field sites.

Brains are assessed at a fine‐structural level via high‐resolution MRI and state‐of‐the‐art histology. Analyses confirm that excellent tissue quality of primate brains sourced in the field can be achieved with a comparable tissue quality of brains acquired from zoo‐living primates.

Our field methods are noninvasive, here defined as not harming living animals, and may be applied to other mammal systems than primates. In sum, the field protocol and methodological pipeline validated here pose a major advance for assessing the influence of socio‐ecology on medium to large mammal brains, at both macro‐ and microstructural levels as well as aiding with the functional annotation of brain regions and neuronal pathways via specific behaviour assessments.
In a rough spot: Declines in Arthroleptella rugosa calling densities are explained by invasive pine trees
Authors: Angus Oliver , Turner Andrew A. , Measey John
Published: January 2023

Basing conservation interventions on evidence is important for justifying their associated cost and gauging their effectiveness. For amphibians, the number of studies available to support conservation action plans is limited. Here, we sought to determine the effect of invasive pine trees on the calling densities of a Critically Endangered frog species, endemic to the Western Cape province in South Africa. The Rough Moss frog, Arthroleptella rugosa, is an anuran restricted to a small patch of fire‐driven fynbos habitat prone to invasion by Cluster Pines, Pinus pinaster. We use acoustic spatially explicit capture–recapture methods to estimate frog densities at multiple sites (n = 12) over ten years. Sites were classified as invaded or uninvaded by P. pinaster, and this information, along with the time since the last fire, were used as explanatory variables for frog density in a generalized linear mixed model. Frog densities were found to be significantly affected by P. pinaster invasion status. At invaded sites, there was a negative relationship between call densities and time since fire, while at uninvaded sites the same relationship was positive. These results confirm previous suggestions that invasive pine trees cause population declines in A. rugosa. Our findings can be used to support conservation interventions for A. rugosa, specifically the use of fire in an adaptive management context to control pine invasion across its range.
Phenological observations and trapping tactics for the granulate ambrosia beetle Xylosandrus crassiusculus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae) in New Zealand
Authors: Sutherland Roanne , Meurisse Nicolas , Pugh Andrew R. , Ranger Christopher M. , Reding Michael E. , Kerr Jessica L. , Russell Jessica , Withers Toni M.
Published: January 2023

The granulate ambrosia beetle (GAB) Xylosandrus crassiusculus, was first formally detected in New Zealand in 2019. Since then, GAB has subsequently been found infesting numerous tree species in the Auckland region.

Flight intercept traps baited with ethanol lures were deployed from October 2019 to May 2021 at three sites in the Auckland region to ascertain the phenology of GAB in New Zealand. Two distinct peak flight periods were identified in early and late summer, while a smaller and inconsistent third peak was detected in early autumn. Logistical analysis of GAB captures in the ethanol‐lured traps and degree‐day (DD) accumulation indicated that 90% of flight activity is completed by 800 DD.

To assess monitoring tactics, flight intercept traps were baited with three different ethanol lures with varying release rates or ethanol‐soaked or non‐soaked wood bolts from three species of trees. A lure releasing 2 g ethanol per day was most effective at capturing GAB. Ethanol‐soaked bolts were less effective than the lures.

Xylosandrus crassiusculus represents a significant risk for shrubs and trees native to New Zealand, as well as commercial horticultural and forestry trees. We recommend using ethanol‐lured panel traps for monitoring purposes.
No loss of genetic divergence in Torymus sinensis following its release for Dryocosmus kuriphilus control in Europe
Authors: Avtzis Dimitrios N. , Eleftheriadou Nikoleta , Matošević Dinka , Ferracini Chiara , Faccoli Massimo
Published: January 2023

Arrival, establishment, and further dispersal of non‐native natural enemies are considered essential for a successful biological control programme, while among the factors that may determine the success of such a programme, genetic diversity of the introduced population plays an important role in the establishment of a non‐native species.

The Chinese parasitoid wasp Torymus sinensis Kamijo (Hymenoptera: Torymidae) was initially released in Europe in Italy to control biologically the Asian chestnut gall wasp Dryocosmus kuriphilus Yasumatsu (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae), and reduce the damage induced on sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Miller). In the following years, T. sinensis was then released in numerous other European countries as a biological control agent of D. kuriphilus. Its presence has also been reported beyond the countries of release due to rapid natural dispersal.

To assess the post‐release genetic diversity of D. kuriphilus, we screened T. sinensis populations from six European countries and tested the possibility of these populations suffering from frequently observed genetic effects that could threaten its successful establishment in Europe.

Our results exhibit that T. sinensis populations have suffered neither from the Allee effect nor from genetic bottleneck after their release and establishment in Europe, something that increases the possibility to effectively control D. kuriphilus in Europe.
Malignant polyps in the COVID‐19 era: a population‐based analysis
Authors: Zammit Andrew P. , Brown Ian , Hooper John D. , Clark David A. , Riddell Andrew D.
Published: January 2023

Background

Malignant polyps represent the early development of colorectal adenocarcinoma. During 2020, there was widescale rationing of health‐care resources in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic. In particular there was deferral of some colonoscopy procedures required for timely malignant polyp detection. This study sought to assess how these deferrals affected the diagnosis of malignant polyps.

Methods

A population wide analysis was performed of 2079 malignant polyps, diagnosed in Queensland, Australia from 2011 to 2020. A regression analysis, with 95% prediction intervals, was produced to determine whether there was a significant impact on the number of malignant polyps diagnosed in 2020 compared to previous years. Univariate statistical analysis of patient, procedural, and pathological variables was also performed.

Results

In 2020 there were 211 malignant polyps diagnosed, which was significantly lower than was predicted by the univariate regression analysis (r2 = 0.85, 95% prediction interval: 255.07–323.91, P < 0.001). These malignant polyps were less likely to be diagnosed in a private setting (P < 0.001), and exhibited significantly less depth of submucosal invasion (P = 0.017). There was no significant difference in the management strategy (polypectomy, resection or trans‐anal resection) between 2011 and 2019 and 2020.

Conclusion

Because of the significant decrease in the number of malignant polyps, and the natural history of the disease, it is expected that there will be an increase in more advanced colorectal adenocarcinomas presenting in 2021 and beyond. This has implications for healthcare resources, particularly in light of the ongoing strain on health departments as a result of the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Perspectives of vets on plastics in veterinary medicine
Authors: Siegler P , Wiethoelter A , Hufschmid J
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The use of disposable plastics and their subsequent environmental impacts are topics of increasing concern in modern society. Medical, including veterinary, sectors are major contributors to plastic waste production. While there is an existing body of literature on the use and reduction of disposable plastics in the human medical sector, few studies, if any, have specifically investigated the use of plastics within the veterinary field. The overall aim of this pilot study was to investigate Australian veterinarians regarding their attitudes toward the ways in which they use disposable plastic in their work and personal lives.

Materials and Methods

Seven veterinarians were interviewed, representing a range of demographics and professional backgrounds from multiple states. Thematic qualitative analysis was employed to organise the data into several major themes encompassing many smaller nodes.

Results

The dataset revealed that most, if not all, veterinarians interviewed agree that disposable plastic is used in excess in veterinary medicine, but that veterinarians will never be able to avoid using plastic entirely. Participants supplied differing opinions with respect to the best strategies for reducing plastic waste production within the veterinary field, including recycling, replacing disposable items or improving education.

Discussion

Despite different participants suggesting conflicting ideas, most, if not all, of the ideas presented have support in the scientific literature. This supports a hybrid approach involving refining recycling systems, reducing plastic consumption and improving education on plastic waste production. A hybrid top‐down‐bottom‐up approach must include encouraging cooperation among stakeholders, both within and outside the veterinary sector, as this will be a major contributor to progress. In a broader context, this hybrid approach to inciting change at all levels of the veterinary sector will require engagement from many interdependent entities; as such, this study should act as a starting point for an ongoing process of cooperative change. Recommendations for future research include life cycle analyses of reusable versus disposable veterinary materials; exploring ways to expand sustainability education within and beyond the veterinary sector, and examining methods of improving technology and infrastructure.
Diving deep into the dark side: A review and examination of research on organizational misconduct in emerging markets
Authors: Anand Amitabh , Rottig Daniel , Parameswar Nakul , Zwerg‐Villegas Anne Marie
Published: January 2023

For three decades, scholars have investigated the phenomena of organizational misconduct (OM) in the fields of business ethics, management, and organization studies. In recent years, the construct has gained increased attention due to widely reported corruption, bribery, crime, violations, and other acts of immorality undertaken by organizations, especially in emerging markets. Despite its popularity, review studies on OM are sparse, and no systematic review of research on OM in the context of emerging markets exists. This article attempts to fill this void by analyzing the literature on OM in the specific context of emerging markets based on a systematic review methodology and integration approach. Based on the findings of our literature review, we develop an integrative model of the antecedents and consequences of OM in emerging markets and discuss important moderators that may curtail the development of OM and alleviate its consequences. In doing so, we provide scholars with a conceptual model and overview of the current knowledge and findings on the topic. We further discuss important gaps in the literature and provide fruitful avenues for future work that we believe are promising to advance our understanding of OM in the context of emerging markets.
Monolithic hybrid abutment crowns (screw‐retained) versus monolithic hybrid abutments with adhesively cemented monolithic crowns
Authors: Naumann Michael , Scholz Patricia , Krois Joachim , Schwendicke Falk , Sterzenbach Guido , Happe Arndt
Published: January 2023

Objectives

The objective of this study is to compare monolithic hybrid abutment crowns (screw‐retained) versus monolithic hybrid abutments with adhesively cemented monolithic single‐tooth crowns.

Materials and Methods

Twenty subjects in need of an implant‐borne restoration were randomly assigned to receive either a cement‐retained (CRR) or a screw‐retained (SRR) implant‐supported monolithic lithium disilicate (LS2) reconstruction. Each patient received a titanium implant with in internal conic connection. After osseointegration and second‐stage surgery, healing abutments were placed for about 10 days. The type of restoration (CRR vs. SRR) was randomly assigned, and the restorations were manufactured of monolithic LS2. Both types of restorations, CRR and SRR, were based on a titanium component (Ti‐base) that was bonded to the abutment (CRR) or the crown (SRR). The follow‐up period for all restoration was 36 months. Clinical outcome was evaluated according to Functional Implant Prosthetic Score (FIPS). Quality of live (OHIP) and patient's satisfaction were assessed using patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs). Primary endpoint was loss of restoration for any reason. Kaplan–Meier curves were constructed and log‐rank testing was performed (p < .05).

Results

One restoration of group CRR failed after 6 months due to loss of adhesion between Ti‐base and individual abutment. No further biological or technical failures occurred. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed no significant difference between both treatment options (p = .317). There was no statistically significant difference between both types of restoration, neither for FIPS, OHIP, treatment time nor patient satisfaction (p > .05).

Conclusion

Monolithic hybrid abutment crowns (screw‐retained) and monolithic hybrid abutment with adhesively cemented monolithic crowns using lithium disilicate showed no statistically significant difference for implant‐based reconstructions in this pilot RCT setting.
Warming drives poleward range contractions of Beringian endemic plant species at high latitudes
Authors: Oke Tobi A. , Stralberg Diana , Reid Donald G. , Bennett Bruce A. , Cannings Syd , Willier Caitlin , Fulkerson Justin R. , Cooke Hilary A. , Mantyka‐Pringle Chrystal S.
Published: January 2023

Aim

Species are expected to disperse poleward in response to climate change. For species that are endemic to the high latitudes, this implies that many in the future would face a “no‐where‐to‐go” situation as they are currently occupying the northernmost portion of the continent. Further, because endemism may arise from a combination of physical barriers, climate and geological history, the persistence of many species may require spatial matching of multiple environmental factors within a limited dispersal space. Thus, it is not clear how endemic species might spatially adjust their distributions in response to climate change and whether there are future climate change refugia for these species.

Location

Northwest North America.

Taxa

Plants.

Time Period

Current and the future (2040).

Methods

We used ensemble bioclimatic models to evaluate drivers and directional patterns of future change in the distributions of 66 North American Beringian and amphi‐Beringian species currently occurring in Alaska and the Yukon. We explored the spatial pattern of species richness, losses and climate change refugia across the region.

Results

More than 80% of the species showed northward shifts in their latitudinal centroids under intermediate warming and are expected to shift their range northward by more than 140 km on average by 2040. Additionally, more than 60% were projected to experience range contractions and up to 20% of the species would have the potential to expand their ranges by more than 100%.

Main Conclusions

Suitable habitat for endemic species in northwest North America is expected to decline significantly, especially for species occupying the Arctic tundra. Although the models identified several potential refugia from future climate change, especially at high latitude and elevation, whether the species would be able to colonize new habitats on their own and/or capitalize sufficiently on in situ refugia remains a pertinent conservation question.
Presenteeism when employers are under pressure: evidence from a high‐stakes environment
Authors: Lackner Mario , Sonnabend Hendrik
Published: January 2023

This study analyses whether the decision to work while sick can be linked to workload fluctuations. Drawing on data collected from professional football, we exploit the dynamics of a season and use additional (national and international) cup games conducted in the second half of a season as a source of exogenous variation. We find robust evidence that players are 6.3 percentage points more likely to return from injuries earlier than expected when their teams are exposed to a high workload. The effect is driven by players who are more important to their teams and those who are less vulnerable to injuries. Finally, we find that presenteeism comes at the cost of an early comeback significantly shortening the time until the next injury by approximately 16 days.
White matter hyperintensity burden predicts cognitive but not motor decline in Parkinson's disease: results from the Ontario Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Initiative
Authors: Carvalho de Abreu Daniela Cristina , Pieruccini‐Faria Frederico , Sarquis‐Adamson Yanina , Black Alanna , Fraser Julia , Van Ooteghem Karen , Cornish Benjamin , Grimes David , Jog Mandar , Masellis Mario , Steeves Thomas , Nanayakkara Nuwan , Ramirez Joel , Scott Christopher , Holmes Melissa , Ozzoude Miracle , Berezuk Courtney , Symons Sean , Mohammad Hassan Haddad Seyyed , Arnott Stephen R. , Binns Malcolm , Strother Stephen , Beaton Derek , Sunderland Kelly , Theyers Athena , Tan Brian , Zamyadi Mojdeh , Levine Brian , Orange Joseph B. , Roberts Angela C. , Lou Wendy , Sujanthan Sujeevini , Breen David P. , Marras Connie , Kwan Donna , Adamo Sabrina , Peltsch Alicia , Troyer Angela K. , Black Sandra E. , McLaughlin Paula M. , Lang Anthony E. , McIlroy William , Bartha Robert ,   ONDRI Investigators, Montero‐Odasso Manuel
Published: January 2023

Background and purpose

The pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD) negatively affects brain network connectivity, and in the presence of brain white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) cognitive and motor impairments seem to be aggravated. However, the role of WMHs in predicting accelerating symptom worsening remains controversial. The objective was to investigate whether location and segmental brain WMH burden at baseline predict cognitive and motor declines in PD after 2 years.

Methods

Ninety‐eight older adults followed longitudinally from Ontario Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Initiative with PD of 3–8 years in duration were included. Percentages of WMH volumes at baseline were calculated by location (deep and periventricular) and by brain region (frontal, temporal, parietal, occipital lobes and basal ganglia + thalamus). Cognitive and motor changes were assessed from baseline to 2‐year follow‐up. Specifically, global cognition, attention, executive function, memory, visuospatial abilities and language were assessed as were motor symptoms evaluated using the Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Part III, spatial–temporal gait variables, Freezing of Gait Questionnaire and Activities Specific Balance Confidence Scale.

Results

Regression analysis adjusted for potential confounders showed that total and periventricular WMHs at baseline predicted decline in global cognition (p < 0.05). Also, total WMH burden predicted the decline of executive function (p < 0.05). Occipital WMH volumes also predicted decline in global cognition, visuomotor attention and visuospatial memory declines (p < 0.05). WMH volumes at baseline did not predict motor decline.

Conclusion

White matter hyperintensity burden at baseline predicted cognitive but not motor decline in early to mid‐stage PD. The motor decline observed after 2 years in these older adults with PD is probably related to the primary neurodegenerative process than comorbid white matter pathology.
Intracranial carotid artery calcification morphology differs in patients with lacunar and nonlacunar acute ischemic strokes
Authors: Mazzacane Federico , Del Bello Beatrice , Ferrari Federica , Persico Alessandra , Rognone Elisa , Pichiecchio Anna , Padovani Alessandro , Cavallini Anna , Morotti Andrea , Arba Francesco
Published: January 2023

Background and purpose

Intracranial carotid artery calcifications (ICACs) are a common finding on noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) and have been associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke. However, no data are available about the association between ICAC patterns and stroke etiology. We investigated the association between ICAC patterns and etiological subtypes of ischemic stroke.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed a single center cohort of patients admitted for ischemic stroke with known etiology. Each carotid artery was evaluated separately on NCCT scans to define the ICAC pattern (intimal, medial, mixed). The association between ICAC patterns and stroke etiology was investigated using logistic regression models adjusting for relevant confounders.

Results

A total of 485 patients were included (median age = 78 [interquartile range (IQR) = 70–85] years, 243 [50%] female, median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale = 6 [IQR = 3–12]). Frequencies of ICAC patterns were: intimal, n = 96 (20%); medial, n = 273 (56%); mixed, n = 51 (11%), indistinct/absent, n = 65 (13%) patients. Intimal pattern was more frequent in lacunar compared with nonlacunar (33% vs. 16%, p < 0.001) stroke etiology, whereas medial pattern was less frequent in lacunar compared with nonlacunar stroke (36% vs. 62%, p < 0.001). After adjustment for confounders, intimal ICAC predominant pattern remained associated with lacunar stroke etiology in two multivariate models (Model 1: adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.20–3.56; Model 2: aOR = 2.01, 95% CI = 1.16–3.46).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that intimal ICAC pattern is associated with lacunar stroke and may serve as a marker for lacunar stroke etiology, possibly strengthening the relation between endothelial dysfunction and lacunar stroke.
Endotracheal tube obstruction due to cuff overinflation or cuff herniation in small equids: A case series
Authors: Veen Iris , de Grauw Janny C.
Published: January 2023

Adequate inflation of the endotracheal tube (ETT) cuff is important to avoid leakage of anaesthetic gases or aspiration of gastric contents and to allow positive pressure ventilation. However, overinflation or herniation of the cuff can cause tracheal mucosal damage and in rare cases even obstruction of the ETT. ETT obstruction due to the cuff itself may be an underrecognised phenomenon in equine practice and we aim to create awareness with this retrospective case series (n = 3). Cases identified between 2014 and 2021 with (partial) ETT obstruction due to cuff overinflation or cuff herniation at the Utrecht University Equine Clinic were selected. Anaesthesia records were examined and presented. Two cases occurred in foals and one in a pony. In each case, high airway pressure was encountered and no or minimal thoracic excursions were visible. In all three cases, cuff deflation led to immediate normalisation of ventilation parameters. When presented with an intubated patient that is difficult to ventilate and high airway pressures exist, ETT cuff overinflation or herniation should be considered as a possible cause; rapid cuff deflation should be included in algorithms for management of ventilation failure due to suspected airway obstruction.
A calculation method for the mode II fracture energy release rate of dissimilar materials adhesively bonded structures
Authors: Wang Jian , Ding Huiming , Jiang Junxia , Bi Yunbo
Published: January 2023

Nowadays, fracture characterization of dissimilar materials adhesively bonded structures still generally refers to standards for fiber‐reinforced plastic composites. Moreover, the calculation methods of fracture energy release rate specified in these standards often lead to great deviation due to the differences in material properties and geometry. In this paper, dissimilar materials corrected beam theory with effective crack length (DM‐CBTE) method for calculation of mode II fracture energy release rate of dissimilar materials adhesively bonded structures was proposed. The differences in material properties and geometry as well as the effect of clamp were all considered. The experimental and J‐integral numerical analysis results showed that the maximum deviation of the GIIC calculated by the methods recommended in standard from the J‐integral result is 28% while that by the DM‐CBTE method is only 5%, which proved good feasibility of the DM‐CBTE method for evaluation of mode II fracture performance of dissimilar materials adhesively bonded structures.
Nurse‐led web‐based patient education reduces anxiety in thyroidectomy patients: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Altinbas Bahar Candas , Gürsoy Ayla
Published: January 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of web‐based patient education on anxiety in patients scheduled for thyroid surgery. A secondary aim was to evaluate the patients' postoperative recovery outcomes.

Design

This study is a randomized controlled trial.

Method

The study was conducted at a university hospital in Turkey between September 2018 and May 2019 with 76 patients scheduled for thyroidectomy surgery and randomly assigned into two groups. Patients in the intervention group received web‐based education, while those in the control group were given only routine care. Measurements were performed before surgery, on the day of surgery, and 1 week after discharge.

Results

On the day of surgery, intervention group anxiety levels were lower than those of the control group, and the majority of early recovery parameters were significantly better in the intervention group than in the control group. One week after discharge, the intervention group patients' anxiety levels were significantly lower. Web‐based education had no impact on pain, time in the operating room, readmission to the hospital after discharge, or length of hospitalization.

Conclusions

Nurse‐led web‐based education reduced patients' anxiety regarding surgery. The results also show that it may improve postoperative early recovery.
Inherited deletion of 9p22.3‐p24.3 and duplication of 18p11.31‐p11.32 associated with neurodevelopmental delay: Phenotypic matching of involved genes
Authors: Ajami Naser , Kerachian Mohammad Amin , Toosi Mehran Beiraghi , Ashrafzadeh Farah , Hosseini Susan , Robinson Peter N. , Abbaszadegan Mohammad Reza
Published: January 2023

We describe a 3.5‐year‐old Iranian female child and her affected 10‐month‐old brother with a maternally inherited derivative chromosome 9 [der(9)]. The postnatally detected rearrangement was finely characterized by aCGH analysis, which revealed a 15.056 Mb deletion of 9p22.3‐p24.3p22.3 encompassing 14 OMIM morbid genes such as DOCK8, KANK1, DMRT1 and SMARCA2, and a gain of 3.309 Mb on 18p11.31‐p11.32 encompassing USP14, THOC1, COLEC12, SMCHD1 and LPIN2. We aligned the genes affected by detected CNVs to clinical and functional phenotypic features using PhenogramViz. In this regard, the patient's phenotype and CNVs data were entered into PhenogramViz. For the 9p deletion CNV, 53 affected genes were identified and 17 of them were matched to 24 HPO terms describing the patient's phenotypes. Also, for CNV of 18p duplication, 22 affected genes were identified and six of them were matched to 13 phenotypes. Moreover, we used DECIPHER for in‐depth characterization of involved genes in detected CNVs and also comparison of patient phenotypes with 9p and 18p genomic imbalances. Based on our filtration strategy, in the 9p22.3‐p24.3 region, approximately 80 pathogenic/likely pathogenic/uncertain overlapping CNVs were in DECIPHER. The size of these CNVs ranged from 12.01 kb to 18.45 Mb and 52 CNVs were smaller than 1 Mb in size affecting 10 OMIM morbid genes. The 18p11.31‐p11.32 region overlapped 19 CNVs in the DECIPHER database with the size ranging from 23.42 kb to 1.82 Mb. These CNVs affect eight haploinsufficient genes.
Sinomenine alleviates diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain through inhibition of the inositol‐requiring enzyme 1 alpha–X‐box binding protein 1 pathway by downregulating prostaglandin‐endoperoxide synthase 2
Authors: Chen Ji , Guo Peng , Liu Xinxin , Liao Huizhi , Chen Kemin , Wang Yuxia , Qin Jie , Yang Fengrui
Published: January 2023

Introduction

We tried to show the effect of sinomenine (SIN) in diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP) and the related underlying mechanism.

Methods

Network pharmacological analysis and bioinformatics analysis were carried out for identification of the active ingredients ofSinomenium acutumand the related genes. The DPNP rat model was constructed and primary rat spinal cord microglial cells were isolated forin vitrocell experiments. The therapeutic role of SIN in DPNP was determinedin vivoandin vitrothrough analysis of microglial cell activation and inflammatory response.

Results

Therapeutic role ofS. acutumin DPNP was mainly achieved by regulating 14 key genes, among which the target gene prostaglandin‐endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) of SIN might be the key gene.Anin vivoexperiment showed that SIN inactivated the inositol‐requiring enzyme 1 alpha–X‐box binding protein 1 pathway by downregulatingPTGS2, which relieved pain symptoms in DPNP rats. It was confirmedin vivothat SIN inhibited the pathway throughPTGS2to alleviate the activation of spinal cord microglial cells and inflammatory response.

Conclusion

SIN decreases the expression ofPTGS2to inactivate the inositol‐requiring enzyme 1 alpha–X‐box binding protein 1 signaling pathway, which inhibits microglial activation, as well as the release of inflammatory factors, thus alleviating DPNP.
Effects of blue LED irradiation on the quality characteristics of Mukeunji, a long‐term fermented kimchi, during refrigerated storage
Authors: Oh Yeong Ji , Kim Selim , Lee Do Yup , Hong Jungil
Published: January 2023

This study investigated the effects of blue light emitting diode (BLED) irradiation on the quality characteristics of Mukeunji (long‐term fermented kimchi). Mukeunji kimchi broth (MKB) was treated with 460 nm BLED (irradiance 375 J/s∙m2) under refrigerated storage conditions. The effects of BLED irradiation on microbial growth were evaluated over the 3‐day storage period at 4°C. The quality attributes of the MKB, including color, pH, and antioxidant activity, were also assessed during the storage period. No significant difference was observed in the viable counts of lactic acid bacteria between BLED‐treated and BLED‐untreated samples. The yeast and mold counts in the MKB, however, were significantly reduced after 24 hr of BLED treatment at 4°C. The MKB pH significantly increased after 72 hr of BLED treatment at 4°C. The hunter redness (a*) was retained in BLED‐treated samples, whereas the yellowness (b*) was reduced in all samples. After BLED irradiation for 24 hr, significant changes in the 2,2′‐azino‐bis‐3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activity of the MKB were also observed. The MJ1 and MJ2 strains isolated from MKB showed high sequence homology with Bacillus paralicheniformis and Bacillus velezensis, respectively, with 99% similarity or more in the phylogenetic tree. Chlorophyll pigment absorbs the blue light emitted by the BLED, so it can partially reduce the growth inhibitory effect of BLED irradiation on the two isolates. These findings suggest that BLED treatment can potentially modulate microbiological growth in Mukeunji during refrigerated storage without significant detriment to its characteristic properties.
Efficacy and safety of preoperative chewing gum for undergoing elective surgery: A meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Chen Xinrong , Chang Chengting , Yuan Xingzhu , Yang Jie , Li Ka
Published: January 2023

Aims and Objectives

This meta‐analysis aimed to investigate the safety and feasibility of preoperative chewing gum in adult patients undergoing elective surgery.

Background

Postoperative chewing gum has been shown to be safe and effective for most surgeries, while the safety and efficacy of preoperative chewing gum are still controversial.

Design

A meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials was performed.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This was a meta‐analysis involving no people or animals.

Methods

The literature search was performed in 9 databases from inception to July 2022. Randomised controlled trials that compared the safety and efficacy of preoperative chewing gum and preoperative chewing no gum in adult patients undergoing elective surgery were included. The study was reported in compliance with PRISMA statement. Trial registration: PROSPERO CRD42022330223.

Results

Fourteen trials involving 1433 adult patients who undergo elective surgery were pooled in this meta‐analysis. The results showed that preoperative chewing gum group resulted in no significant difference in gastric pH (p = .13) and gastric fluid volume (p = .25) compared with non‐gum‐chewing group. In comparison with the non‐gum‐chewing group, the gum‐chewing group was associated with shorter preoperative thirst score (p = .02), lower incidence of postoperative nausea (p = .0004), lower incidence of postoperative sore throat, lower incidence of postoperative hoarseness, lower postoperative pain score, shorter first postoperative anal exhaust time (p < .00001), shorter first postoperative defecation time (p < .00001) and shorter hospital days (p = .02).

Conclusions

Preoperative chewing gum was associated with lower discomforts and complication rates, without increasing gastric pH and gastric fluid volume. This strategy may be an innovative, feasible and safe choice for elective surgery in adults.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This study's results could be used as an evidence for the implementation of preoperative chewing gum in perioperative care for adult patients undergoing elective surgery.
A systematic review on price volatility in agriculture
Authors: Mustafa Zeeshan , Vitali Giuliano , Huffaker Ray , Canavari Maurizio
Published: January 2023

The recent extreme volatility in agriculture prices determines serious repercussions to various stakeholders and levels in the food value chain, that is, producers, intermediaries, and customers, at micro‐, meso‐ and macro‐economic governance levels, respectively. Persistent high/low degree of agriculture prices leads to unsustainable production/consumption patterns, thus representing an impediment to reaching the goal ofresponsible consumption and production(UN‐SDGs 12). The lack of comprehensive real‐time information on price volatility's internal and external factors often resulted in an inconclusive and counterintuitive outcome while performing empirical estimation. The present review was conducted using thePRISMAframework to systematically identify and analyze literature from two important databases. Papers have been grouped by volatility drivers, governance levels, theoretical approaches, and background data types. The present review is a valuable starting point for understanding the links between multi‐dimensional factors affecting the persistent price volatility and the theoretical and empirical analytics trends to provide the computational advancement needed to cope with model estimation issues. It also highlights the importance of a paradigm shift in researching agriculture price volatility to addressing food crises, considering principal objectives and perspectives such as food security, poverty alleviation, sustainability in food value chains, and resilience of food systems across the globe.
Glial cells expressing visual cycle genes are vital for photoreceptor survival in the zebrafish pineal gland
Authors: Elazary Yotam , Cheow Kathleen , Cheng Ruey‐Kuang , Ghosh Raghumoy , Shainer Inbal , Wexler Yair , Crasta Karen , Gothilf Yoav , Jesuthasan Suresh J.
Published: January 2023

Photoreceptors in the vertebrate eye are dependent on the retinal pigmented epithelium for a variety of functions including retinal re‐isomerization and waste disposal. The light‐sensitive pineal gland of fish, birds, and amphibians is evolutionarily related to the eye but lacks a pigmented epithelium. Thus, it is unclear how these functions are performed. Here, we ask whether a subpopulation of zebrafish pineal cells, which express glial markers and visual cycle genes, is involved in maintaining photoreceptors. Selective ablation of these cells leads to a loss of pineal photoreceptors. Moreover, these cells internalize exorhodopsin that is secreted by pineal rod‐like photoreceptors, and in turn release CD63‐positive extracellular vesicles (EVs) that are taken up by pdgfrb‐positive phagocytic cells in the forebrain meninges. These results identify a subpopulation of glial cells that is critical for pineal photoreceptor survival and indicate the existence of cells in the forebrain meninges that receive EVs released by these pineal cells and potentially function in waste disposal.
“Ye Double‐Minded”: Black Parishioners’ Attitudes toward Nonaffirming Church Climates
Authors: Young Luther
Published: January 2023

Homophobia in the black community has been largely attributed to the Black Church's conservative views concerning sexual orientation. Prior research demonstrates that black congregations are generally nonaffirming of nonheterosexuality; however, few studies have investigated black congregants’ responses to their churches’ climates regarding sexuality. Using in‐depth interviews, this paper examines the extent to which black Christians are content with their congregations’ nonaffirming climates. Findings indicate that although some black parishioners are content with or indifferent to their churches’ climates, most respondents advocate for a change in how their congregations address sexual orientation, specifically calling for open conversations about sexuality. Furthermore, an examination of the language respondents used to evaluate congregational climates suggests discussions of sexuality in churches that humanize and encourage empathy for nonheterosexual identities may help facilitate such conversations. These results challenge assumptions of ideological homogeneity within religious organizations and could inform strategies to promote nonheterosexual inclusion in congregations.
Doxycycline serum protein binding in pigs reveals a relatively high free fraction
Authors: Portugal Felipe Ramon , Lacroix Marlène Z. , Roques Béatrice B. , Gayrard Véronique , Toutain Pierre‐Louis , Bousquet‐Mélou Alain
Published: January 2023

Doxycycline is an antibiotic widely used in pig farming. As with all antibiotics, only the free concentrations are considered to be bacteriologically active. Historically, the free fraction (fu) in pig plasma has been estimated at 7%, which, given the effective dosage regime used in pigs, leads to free plasma concentrations of doxycycline largely lower than the minimum inhibitory concentrations of the target pathogens. This apparent inconsistency led us to reassess plasma protein binding of doxycycline in pigs. Using an equilibrium dialysis method, the extent of doxycycline binding was measured individually in 26 pigs for total doxycycline concentration ranging from 10 to 1000 μmol/L. Analysis of the data using a non‐linear mixed‐effects model demonstrated linearity of plasma protein binding with a mean fu value of 31% and a relatively low inter‐subject variability of approximately 10%. This new data showing that the free fraction is four times greater than what could have been anticipated from historical data is discussed in particular for the calculation of the PK/PD cut‐offs, which are used to establish the clinical breakpoints for antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
Prevalence of Oestrus ovis in small ruminants from the eastern Iberian Peninsula. A long‐term study
Authors: Garijo‐Toledo María Magdalena , Sansano‐Maestre José , Ahuir‐Baraja Ana Elena , Martínez‐Carrasco Carlos , de Vega Francisco Domingo Alonso , Llobat Lola , de Ybáñez‐Carnero María Rocío Ruiz
Published: January 2023

Oestrus ovis is an obligate parasite that causes myiasis in domestic ruminants, being commonly found in the Mediterranean area. From 2009 to 2019 a total of 3476 heads of culling sheep and goats from the Mediterranean coast of Spain were examined for the presence of O. ovis. The total prevalence was 56.3%, significantly higher in sheep than in goats (61.2% and 43%, respectively). Differences were found in the mean annual prevalence, with the highest value being registered in 2018 (61.7%) and the lowest in 2012 (50.3%). Autumn, for sheep, and winter, for goats, were the seasons with the highest number of infested specimens. Temperature, but not rainfall, was found to be associated with prevalence (p < 0.05). Most L1 were found in the anatomic region I (septum, meatus, and ventral conchae), while L2 and L3 were mainly located in regions II (nasopharynx, ethmoid labyrinth, and dorsal conchae), and III (sinuses). The overall intensity was 12.8 larvae per head, significantly higher in sheep (13.3) than in goats (3.5). Our results confirm the high prevalence of O. ovis in sheep and goats in this geographic area over the last decade, with the trend increasing in recent years in association with higher mean temperatures.
Mesopredator‐mediated trophic cascade can break persistent phytoplankton blooms in coastal waters
Authors: Berthold Maximilian , Schumann Rhena , Reiff Volker , Wulff Rita , Schubert Hendrik
Published: January 2023

Managing eutrophied systems using only nutrient decreases to impose bottom–up control can be economically and ecologically challenging. Top–down controls through increased consumption have sometimes effectively controlled phytoplankton blooms. However, mechanistic insights, especially on possible trophic cascades, are less understood in brackish, species‐poor coastal waters, where large cladocera are absent. In this study, we set‐up large mesocosms for three consecutive years during the growing season. One set of mesocosms contained mesopredators (gobies and shrimps), whereas the other mesocosms had no such mesopredator present. The results were standardized to monitoring data from the ecosystem to track possible differences between treatments and the system. We found that mesopredator mesocosms showed lower turbidity, phytoplankton biomass and nutrients compared to no‐mesopredator mesocosms, and compared to the ecosystem. This decrease allowed macrophytes to colonize water depths only sparsely colonized in the ecosystem. Rotifer biomass increased in mesopredator mesocosms compared to the ecosystem and to the no‐mesopredator mesocosms. Likewise, copepod biomass that potentially grazes upon rotifers and other microzooplankton decreased in mesopredator mesocosms. No‐mesopredator mesocosms were colonized by an omnivorous mesograzer Gammarus tigrinus, potentially creating additional pressure on macrophytes and increasing grazing‐mediated nutrient release. Zooplankton was not able to control the non‐nutrient limited phytoplankton. We propose a new mechanism, where a higher mesopredator density will increase grazing on phytoplankton by promoting microzooplankton capable of grazing on picophytoplankton. This proposed mechanism would contrast with freshwater systems, where a decrease of zooplanktivorous fish would promote larger phytoplankton grazer like cladocera. Biomanipulation in such species‐poor eutrophic coastal waters may be more successful, due to less trophic pathways, that can cause complex top–down controls like in other systems. Stocking eutrophic coastal waters with gobies and shrimps may be an alternative biomanipulative approach rather than selectively removing large piscivorous or omnivorous fish from eutrophic coastal waters.