bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conservation hotspots of insular endemic mammalian diversity at risk of extinction across a multidimensional approach
Authors: Leclerc Camille , Magneville Camille , Bellard Céline
Published: November 2021

Aim

Islands are one of the most threatened worldwide biotas. Based on their taxonomic diversity, some insular regions have been identified as key areas of conservation. Recently, systematic conservation planning has advocated for the use of multiple biodiversity facets to protect unique evolutionary and functional processes. Here, we identified priority areas for threatened insular endemic mammals across three key dimensions of biodiversity (taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional), as well as their protection level and threats affecting them.

Location

Worldwide.

Methods

We applied diversity–area relationships to identify insular regions that harbored a disproportionately high rate of threatened endemic mammal diversity (whether taxonomic, phylogenetic, or functional) given their area for 1,799 islands across 19 insular regions. We also assessed the level of protection and the threats affecting biodiversity within each insular region.

Results

We showed a fairly good congruence between top‐ranked insular regions based on taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity. Specifically, we identified four hotspots for endemic mammalian conservation through the three diversity facets: Indo‐Burma, Madagascar and the Indian Ocean Islands, Mesoamerica and Galápagos Islands, and Wallacea. Except for Mesoamerica and Galápagos Islands, the protected areas coverage is low (<8%) within the hotspots. We also showed that most of the mammal species occurring in the hotspots was prone to either direct threats that affect their mortality or indirect threats that only alter their habitat, while mixed threats such as biological invasions or climate change were less represented in those regions.

Main conclusions

Our findings reinforce the importance of investigating the multiple diversity facets in a conservation concern and to link with the associated threats to ensure an effective conservation strategy.
From Rebel to Humanitarian: Military Savoir Faire and Humanitarian Practice in Eastern DR Congo
Authors: James Myfanwy
Published: November 2021

This article explores the experience of ex‐rebels who have become humanitarians in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. It describes how rebel‐cum‐humanitarians navigate a turbulent political environment, integrating the knowledge they acquired through military experience into a career in the humanitarian sector. ‘Distinction’ between combatants and humanitarians remains central to the humanitarian imaginary. However, rebel and humanitarian spheres are interlinked by individuals who do not just broker relationships between the two, but also move between them. They walk a tightrope: their rebel past is seen as a threat to performing a ‘neutral’ humanitarian identity, but at the same time, it constitutes a resource in brokering access with armed groups. Despite a focus on performing principles, humanitarian agencies in practice draw on their employees’ savoir faire which is sometimes gained through rebel experience — the very identity deemed antithetical to a humanitarian status.
Utilization of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists and changes in clinical characteristics in patients with type 2 diabetes by chronic kidney disease stage in Japan: A descriptive observational study using a nationwide electronic medical records database
Authors: Hirose Naoki , Tsujimoto Naoto , Katayose Taeko , Chin Rina
Published: November 2021

Aim

To describe the utilization of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RAs) and changes in clinical characteristics before and after GLP‐1 RA initiation in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) by chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective descriptive study using a nationwide electronic medical records database in Japan, we included patients with GLP‐1 RA prescriptions from June 2010 to October 2019. Clinical characteristics at GLP‐1 RA initiation, persistence proportion, and changes in clinical measurements after GLP‐1 RA initiation were described for all patients and by CKD stage, defined by baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

Results

We included 8049 patients. During the study period, the proportion of patients with T2D initiating GLP‐1 RAs increased from 1.5% in 2010 to 3.3% in 2019. Also, the mean (95% confidence interval) of baseline age and eGFR ranged from 58.6 (56.7‐60.4) to 66.3 (65.5‐67.2) years and from 72.9 (68.0‐77.9) to 64.0 (62.2‐65.8) mL/min/1.73m2, respectively. The persistence proportion at 12 months was 49.5% overall, 37.8% in T2D patients with CKD with a baseline eGFR of less than 30 mL/min/1.73m2, and 34.6% in those undergoing dialysis. The rate of deterioration in renal function reduced after GLP‐1 RA initiation.

Conclusions

The utilization of GLP‐1 RAs has been increasing over the past decade, and GLP‐1 RAs have been used in patients with limited treatment options, such as the elderly or those with CKD. In T2D patients with CKD, the persistence proportion of GLP‐1 RAs was not low, and the renal dysfunction may be moderated by GLP‐1 RA initiation.
(Re)visiting the neighbourhood
Authors: Drozdzewski Danielle , Webster Natasha A.
Published: November 2021

Neighbourhoods are complex places, at once familiar and foreign, easily found on a map or bounded by rules only insiders know. Although neighbourhood is a concept, one that we experience daily, it remains conceptually challenging for geographers and planners alike. Nevertheless, and despite its complexity, the importance of the understanding the neighbourhood should not be overlooked, especially in the post‐pandemic world. Understanding the neighbourhood as a concept, place and context, poses opportunities for geographers to think‐with and think laterally across the demographic information we may have on who lives in a neighbourhood, and towards the integration of lived experiences to our explorations of it. In this paper, we critically review key literature on the neighbourhood since 2015, and discuss recurrent themes from that scholarship: belonging, place attachment, everyday interactions, and spatial formations. We argue that the neighbourhood be considered as a multilayered locale and a site imbued with emotions and meanings located with, in and stemming from place‐specific conceptual, temporal, and spatial contexts of the neighbourhood. Our (re)visit of the neighbourhood occasions, we think, an opportunity for geographers to keep in touch with the neighbourhood and shape new discussions around these important ‘lived in’ spaces and places.
The extra‐legal governance of corruption: Tracing the organization of corruption in public procurement
Authors: Fazekas Mihály , Sberna Salvatore , Vannucci Alberto
Published: November 2021

This article traces the organization of corruption in public procurement, by theoretically and empirically assessing the contribution of extra‐legal governance organizations (EGO) to supporting it. Theoretically, we explore the governance role played by organized criminal groups in corruption networks, facilitating corrupt transactions by lowering search costs, bargaining costs, and enforcement cots. Empirically, the analysis exploits a rare empirical setup of proven cases of both EGO presence and absence in contract awards by Italian municipalities. We use traditional regression and supervised machine‐learning methods for identifying and validating proxy indicators for EGO presence in public procurement such as single bidding or municipal spending concentration. Internal validity of our models is very high, 85% of unseen contracts are correctly classified. External validity is moderate, our predicted EGO presence score correlates with established indicators of organized criminality across the whole of Italy and Europe with a linear correlation coefficient of about 0.4.
The impact of COVID‐19 on international student enrolments in North America: Comparing Canada and the United States
Authors: Buckner Elizabeth , Zhang You , Blanco Gerardo L.
Published: November 2021

Both Canada and the United States enrol a significant number of international students. However, in March 2020, both countries closed their borders and increased restrictions to international travel due to COVID‐19, which had a direct impact on international students' ability to travel between their home countries and study destinations. This article examines the impact of COVID‐19 on international student enrolments by asking two related questions: first, how did government policy address international students' difficult reality in the wake of COVID‐19? And, did international student enrolments change as a result? With regard to policy, we find a stark divergence: Canada's federal policies quickly adapted to support international students and ensure they remained eligible for post‐graduate work permits, preserving the appeal of Canada as a study destination. Meanwhile, in the US, federal policies for student visas required international students to maintain physical presence, reflecting a more hostile stance towards immigration, characteristic of the Trump administration. Despite these differences, with regard to enrolments, we find largely similar patterns, with COVID resulting in only a small decline in international student enrolments nationwide. A more worrying trend for both countries is that selective institutions seem to have been less impacted than access‐oriented institutions.
Investigation on the elimination of yeasty flavour in yeast extract by mixed culture of lactic acid bacteria and yeast
Authors: Ma Chunlei , Wang Jiwei , Chen Xiong , Li Xin , Li Pei , Li Ku , Xiong Jian
Published: November 2021

Yeast extract (YE) is a kind of umami additives used in fermented condiments, it also has special yeasty flavour (YF), which is not widely accepted by some consumers. In this paper, the technology of mixed microbial transformation was applied to eliminate or cover up YF during mixed fermentation. FG10, which is produced by Hubei Angel Yeast Co. Ltd, is a kind of YE that has the distinctive YF and has been applied to the market. It had good sensory evaluation after 6 h with Saccharomycopsis fibuligera and Lactococcus lactis. At 6 h, compared with single fermentation, the number of bacteria of L. lactis was enhanced by 34.28%, and the number of bacteria of S. fibuligera was reduced by 47.93%. The yeasty flavoured substances propionic acid and butyric acid were completely removed. The result of GC‐MS showed that acetal, phenyl acetaldehyde, 2,4‐dimethylbenzaldehyde, benzaldehyde, isoamyl alcohol, 5‐methyl‐2‐furan methanol, phenylethanol were generated or increased. Furthermore, the amino acids of YE were significantly different after fermentation by different microorganisms (P < 0.05), The flavour compounds and amino acids in YE before and after fermentation had closely correlation (r = 0.94), the consumption of amino acids in mixed fermentation promoted the variety of corresponding flavour compounds, which boosted the formation of free YF YE. In addition, taste substances lactic acid generated 6.27 ± 0.115 g L−1 and nucleotides improved 15.05%, which were beneficial to natural YF free seasoning with YE as raw material.
Improving the freeze–thaw stability of emulsions via combining phosphatidylcholine and modified starch: A combined experimental and computational study
Authors: Zhong Jinfeng , Li Yifei , Qin Xiaoli , Li Jiaqi , Wang Yonghua
Published: November 2021

Phosphatidylcholine (PC)‐coated emulsion was unstable during the freezing process. This study aimed to investigate the influences of octenyl succinic anhydride modified starch (OSAS) to PC weight ratios on the properties of the OSAS–PC complex and freeze–thaw stability of oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions. The results of molecular dynamics (MD) simulation indicated that electrostatic interaction was dominant in the complex. When OSAS/PC weight ratios were 5:5, 6:4, and 3:7, the complex showed a relatively low interfacial tension, high interfacial layer thickness, and high apparent viscosity at low shear rate. Z‐average diameter in emulsions increased from 175.8 to 270.0 nm and zeta‐potential increased from –49.2 to –29.7 mV, when OSAS/PC weight ratio varied from 0:10 to 7:3. OSAS–PC complex in weight ratios of 3:7 and 5:5 remarkably improved the freeze–thaw stability of emulsions (no creaming and aggregates), which may be related to a thick and dense interfacial layer. These findings indicated that the freeze–thaw stability of PC‐stabilised emulsions could be improved by OSAS with low levels.
Soybean okara: Effect of ultrasound on compositional and emulsifying properties
Authors: Moscoso Ospina Yeisson A. , Porfiri María C. , Cabezas Dario M.
Published: November 2021

High‐intensity ultrasound is widely used to modify the functional properties of macromolecules (proteins, polysaccharides, etc.) and to expand their range of potential applications. This work is aimed at studying the effects of ultrasound treatments on the composition of different soybean okara samples and their potential as an emulsifying agent. Defatted solvent‐free soybean flour (DSF) was extracted by adjusting dispersion to pH 9.0. Insoluble residues obtained after centrifugation were dried, and an unsonicated okara sample (UOK) was obtained. Furthermore, the soybean flour dispersion was subjected to treatment in a probe‐type ultrasonic homogeniser before or after the alkaline extraction process, thus producing SOK and OKS samples, respectively. The sonication process generated compositional and structural changes in okara soybeans. SOK had higher yield and protein content than UOK and OKS due to the insolubilisation of the glycinin (11S) fraction of soybean storage proteins. Due to these characteristics, the SOK sample showed the best emulsifying activity.
Towards inclusive collective industrial relations: Selected articles from theInternational Labour Reviewthroughout the last century
Authors: BOSCH Gerhard
Published: November 2021

Collective industrial relations (CIR) are founded on particular rights that can be exercised only by employee representative bodies, not by individual employees. From the many publications on CIR that have appeared in the International Labour Review over the past 100 years, 15 contributions were selected for inclusion in this Centenary Issue. A criterion for the selection of an article was its focus on the strengthening of inclusivity ‐ that is, the extension of the protection afforded by CIR to as many people as possible and not just to privileged groups. Inclusive CIR are the precondition for reducing discrimination in the labour market and for universalizing decent work.
Les fournisseurs de premier rang sud‐coréens dans les chaînes de valeur mondiales de l'habillement: effets de la montée en gamme sur les travailleurs en Asie
Authors: KWON Hyunji , CHUNG Sun Wook , LEE Joonkoo
Published: November 2021

Les auteurs s'intéressent à l'évolution des fabricants de prêt‐à‐porter de la République de Corée, notamment à l'ascension de certains d'entre eux au statut de fournisseurs de premier rang. Ils étudient le cas de deux de ces entreprises, devenues des multinationales, et montrent que la reconfiguration des chaînes de valeur mondiales de l'habillement au lendemain de la crise financière de la fin des années 2000 leur a donné l'occasion de monter en gamme. Si ces fournisseurs ont su s'imposer comme des partenaires compétents, les auteurs s'interrogent sur leur positionnement vis‐à‐vis des donneurs d'ordres et sur ce que cela implique pour les travailleurs.
La Revista Internacional del Trabajo y la igualdad de género: la importancia del trabajo remunerado y no remunerado de las mujeres
Authors: FOLBRE Nancy
Published: November 2021

En esta introducción se reflexiona sobre las contribuciones seleccionadas para el presente monográfico del centenario de la Revista Internacional del Trabajo (RIT) dedicado a las mujeres y la igualdad de género. Se pone de relieve la tendencia a subestimar el trabajo que las mujeres tradicionalmente han realizado tanto en el ámbito doméstico como en el mercado laboral. Asimismo, se hace hincapié en las diversas iniciativas destinadas a remediar estos inextricables problemas.
Metabolic reprogramming of macrophages instigates CCL21‐induced arthritis
Authors: Van Raemdonck Katrien , Umar Sadiq , Palasiewicz Karol , Meyer Anja , Volin Michael V , Chang Huan J , Al‐Awqati Mina , Zomorrodi Ryan K , Shahrara Shiva
Published: November 2021

This study was designed to delineate the functional significance of CCL21 in metabolic reprogramming in experimental arthritis and differentiated rheumatoid arthritis (RA) macrophages (MΦs). To characterize the influence of CCL21 on immunometabolism, its mechanism of action was elucidated by dysregulating glucose uptake in preclinical arthritis and RA MΦs. In CCL21 arthritic joints, the glycolytic intermediates hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF1α), cMYC and GLUT1 were overexpressed compared with oxidative regulators estrogen‐related receptor γ and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 (PGC1)‐α. Interestingly, 2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose (2‐DG) therapy mitigated CCL21‐induced arthritis by restraining the number of joint F4/80+iNOS+MΦs without impacting F4/80+Arginase+MΦs. Similar to the preclinical findings, blockade of glycolysis negated CCL21‐polarized CD14+CD86+GLUT+MΦ frequency; however, CD14+CD206+GLUT+MΦs were not implicated in this process. In CCL21‐induced arthritis and differentiated RA MΦs, the inflammatory imprint was uniquely intercepted by 2‐DG via interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) downregulation. Despite the more expansive inflammatory response of CCL21 in the arthritic joints relative to the differentiated RA MΦs, 2‐DG was ineffective in joint tumor necrosis factor‐α, IL‐1β, CCL2 and CCL5 enrichment. By contrast, disruption of glycolysis markedly impaired CCL21‐induced HIF1α and cMYC signaling in arthritic mice. Notably, in RA MΦs, glycolysis interception was directed toward dysregulating CCL21‐enhanced HIF1α transcription. Nonetheless, in concurrence with the diminished IL‐6 levels, CCL21 differentiation of CD14+CD86+GLUT1+MΦs was reversed by glycolysis and HIIF1α inhibition. Moreover, in the CCL21 experimental arthritis or differentiated RA MΦs, the malfunctioning metabolic machinery was accompanied by impaired oxidative phosphorylation because of reduced PGC1α or peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ expression. CCL21 reconfigures naïve myeloid cells into glycolytic RA CD14+CD86+GLUT+IL‐6highHIF1αhigh MΦs. Therefore, inhibiting the CCL21/CCR7 pathway may provide a promising therapeutic strategy.
Aortic valve replacement rates in Australia from 2004 to 2019
Authors: Bamford Paul , Said Christian , Al‐Omary Mohammed S. , Bhagwandeen Rohan , Boyle Andrew
Published: November 2021

Background

Several surgical and percutaneous treatments are available for patients with aortic valve disease.

Aim

To establish whether trends in aortic valve replacements (AVR) in Australia reflect recent evidence.

Methods

Using the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data, this study calculated all AVR and balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) procedures conducted in all Australian hospitals from 2004 to 2019. Linear regression analysis was performed to determine whether age‐adjusted rates had changed over the study period.

Results

There were 80 883 AVR performed. Of these, 66% were men and 64% were aged >70 years. Absolute rates of AVR increased from 3631 to 7277 with a significant 22% age‐adjusted rise seen (1.9% increase per year (+0.26 per 100 000 per year; 95% confidence interval 0.19–0.34); P < 0.001). This trend was more pronounced in men than women and in those aged >80 years (+0.23 per 100 000 per year; P < 0.001). Proportion of mechanical AVR implanted fell from 38.4% to 8.6% (P < 0.001). A total of 2683 transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedures was performed in 2019, representing a 52% annual increase from 2014. BAV increased from 66 procedures in 2004 to 862 in 2019.

Conclusion

Rates of AVR have increased significantly over the past 16 years, particularly in the elderly. Despite international guideline recommendations, fewer mechanical AVR are being used in younger cohorts. The uptake in TAVI rates might reflect evidence that suggests it is a safe alternative, at least in the medium term. BAV has also seen a resurgence during this time period.
Prevalence of diabetic retinopathy and reduced vision among indigenous Australians in the nurse‐led integrated Diabetes Education and Eye Screening study in a regional primary care clinic
Authors: Atkinson‐Briggs Sharon , Jenkins Alicia , Keech Anthony , Ryan Christopher , Brazionis Laima ,   Centre of Research Excellence in Diabetic Retinopathy Study Group
Published: November 2021

Background

Nationally, Indigenous Australians are more likely to have diabetes and diabetic retinopathy (DR) than non‐Indigenous Australians. However, the prevalence of DR and impaired vision in regional primary care settings is unclear.

Aim

To describe the prevalence and severity of DR and presenting vision level among Indigenous Australian adults with diabetes attending an indigenous primary care clinic in regional Australia.

Methods

Participants underwent nurse‐led retinal imaging and DR screening with offsite retinal grading in the integrated Diabetes Education and Eye Screening (iDEES) project implemented at a regional indigenous primary healthcare setting between January 2018 and March 2020.

Results

Of 172 eligible adults, 135 (79%) were recruited and screened for DR and vision level. The median age was 56 (46–67) years, 130 (96%) had type 2 diabetes of median (interquartile range) duration 6 (2–12) years and 48 (36%) were male. Images from 132 (97.8%) participants were gradable. DR was present in 38 (29%) participants: mild non‐proliferative in 33 (25%); moderate–severe in three (2.5%); and sight‐threatening two (1.5%). Subnormal presenting vision was present in 33%.

Conclusions

A nurse‐led model of care integrating diabetes eye screening and education at a single visit was successful at recruiting Indigenous Australian adults with diabetes, screening their vision and acquiring a high rate of gradable images. Even for a short duration of known diabetes, DR was present in three out of 10 patients screened.
Enhanced transport properties of Sn‐substituted proton‐conducting BaZr0.8Sc0.2O3–δ ceramic materials
Authors: Zvonareva Inna A. , Kasyanova Anna V. , Tarutin Artem P. , Vdovin Gennady K. , Lyagaeva Julia G. , Medvedev Dmitry A.
Published: November 2021

High‐temperature proton conductors based on acceptor‐doped barium zirconate exhibit excellent chemical stability in atmospheres containing CO2 or H2O. However, due to their refractory nature, these conductors have a low grain growth rate, which negatively affects the overall electrical conductivity. A possible strategy for increasing the ionic conductivity of zirconates lies in the partial substitution of Zr‐ions with other isovalent dopants. In this work, we carried out systematic studies of the crystal structure, microstructure, hydration capacity, transport, and thermal properties of BaZr0.8–xSnxSc0.2O3–δ (x = 0, 0.1, and 0.2). According to X‐ray powder diffraction and scanning electron microscopy data, all studied ceramic samples have a cubic perovskite structure, whose average grain size decreases with tin doping. It is found that the composition with x = 0.1 exhibits the highest values in terms of total, ionic, grain, and grain‐boundary conductivities. The complex analysis of the obtained data shows that a low‐level substitution of Zr4+‐ with Sn4+‐ions is a competent approach for designing new proton‐conducting electrolytes attractive for high‐temperature applications.
New hard ternary Hf–Ir–B borides formed by reaction hafnium diboride with iridium
Authors: Lozanov Victor V. , Utkin Aleksei V. , Gavrilova Tatyana A. , Titov Anatoly T. , Beskrovny Anatoly I. , Letyagin Gleb A. , Romanenko Galina V. , Baklanova Natalya I.
Published: November 2021

A variety of the ternary Hf–Ir–B phases formed via the reaction between iridium and hafnium diboride at elevated temperatures was found. The data on the phase and elemental composition, as well as crystal structure, obtained by powder and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy/energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometer, and time‐of‐flight neutron diffraction analysis unambiguously confirm that HfIr3Bx solid solution, two known ternary borides (HfIr3B4, Hf2Ir5B2), as well as two novel ternary HfIr2.1B1.3 and HfIr5.7B2.7 phases, are formed at elevated temperatures. This result is fundamentally different from that previously obtained by us for the Hf–Ir–C system in which only one binary intermetallic compound, HfIr3, was produced. The measured Vickers microhardness for all the aforementioned ternary borides (13–19 GPa) allows us to consider them hard. The coefficients of thermal expansion of ternary borides were measured by in situ high‐temperature X‐ray analysis.
Evolution of vocal performance and song complexity in island birds
Authors: Robert Aloïs , Lengagne Thierry , Melo Martim , Gomez Doris , Doutrelant Claire
Published: November 2021

Oceanic islands share distinctive characteristics thought to underlie a set of parallel evolutionary trends across islands and taxonomic groups – including life‐history traits, morphology and visual signals. To which extent acoustic signals also change in parallel on islands is less clear. Some important processes associated with insularity, such as founder effects and reduced sexual selection, could lead to a decrease in vocal performance and song complexity on islands. In a field‐based study, we recorded 11 insular species and their closest mainland relatives. Out of the 11 species pairs, 6 live in the tropics (São Tomé/Mount Cameroon) and 5 in the temperate region (Madeira/southern France). For each species, we measured two proxies of vocal performance (song duration and syllable rate) and one proxy of song complexity (syllable diversity). This study did not recover a clear relationship between the island environment and song traits. If as expected, syllable rate was lower in island species than in their mainland counterparts, the two other proxies showed no clear island–mainland pattern of divergence. Several factors may explain the absence of reduction for song duration and syllable diversity. Among those, relaxation of interspecific competition on islands may have led to an increase in syllable diversity, or correlations between song variables may have constrained song evolution. More studies on island species are needed to draw a better picture of divergence patterns and go beyond the confounding ecological factors that could explain peculiar song characteristics in islands.
Association of vitiligo with high‐frequency sensorineural hearing loss: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lien K.‐H. , Ger T.‐Y. , Chi C.‐C.
Published: November 2021

The association between vitiligo and hearing loss has been noted but the specific frequencies and degrees of hearing impairment remain unclear. The objective of this systematic review was to investigate the relationship between vitiligo and hearing thresholds at various specific frequencies. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We searched MEDLINE and Embase for relevant studies from inception to 10th April 2021. Case‐control studies, cross‐sectional, or cohort studies that compared the frequency‐specific hearing thresholds between vitiligo patients and age‐matched non‐vitiligo controls were included. There were neither language nor geographic limitations. We used the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale to assess the risk of bias of included studies. The DerSimonian and Laird random‐effects model was utilized in meta‐analyses due to expected clinical heterogeneity. We included 9 case‐control studies with 371 vitiligo patients and 349 controls, which were rated with low or unclear risk. We found neither relevant cross‐sectional nor cohort studies. The meta‐analysis showed that when compared with controls, vitiligo patients had significantly higher pure‐tone hearing thresholds at 2000, 4000, and 8000 Hz. In conclusions, vitiligo patients are prone to high‐frequency sensorineural hearing loss.
Trichlorfon is effective against Dawestrema cycloancistrium and does not alter the physiological parameters of arapaima (Arapaima gigas): A large Neotropical fish from the Amazon
Authors: Cruz Matheus Gomes da , Jerônimo Gabriela Tomas , Bentes Sunique Poá Cordeiro , Gonçalves Ligia Uribe
Published: November 2021

This study investigated the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of trichlorfon against Dawestrema cycloancistrium, as well as its physiological effects on arapaima. Naturally parasitized arapaima gill arches were exposed in vitro to 100, 250, 500 and 750 mg/L of trichlorfon and a control group (only distilled water), in triplicate. Parasites were monitored, and mortality was used to determine the median effective concentration (EC50). The 750 mg/L concentration demonstrated 100% in vitro efficacy against D. cycloancistrium after 60 min, while the intermediate (500 mg/L) and the lowest (100 and 250 mg/L) tested concentrations were completely efficient after 90 and 130 min, respectively. The EC50‐1h of trichlorfon for D. cycloancistrium was determined at 171.73 mg/L. Parasitized arapaima juveniles were exposed to a control group and 150 mg/L of trichlorfon in triplicate. Fish were exposed to two therapeutic baths for 60 min with 24‐h intervals between treatments. Therapeutic baths with 150 mg/L of trichlorfon were 92.99% effective against D. cycloancistrium and did not bring about haematological alterations (erythrogram, white blood cell count, thrombogram, plasma glucose and total proteins). Therefore, 150 mg/L of trichlorfon can be used in therapeutic baths to control and treat D. cycloancistrium infestations with no physiological impairments for arapaima.
Distribution of androgen receptor mRNA in the prepubertal male and female mouse brain
Authors: Cara Alexandra L. , Henson Emily L. , Beekly Bethany G. , Elias Carol F.
Published: November 2021

Androgens are steroid hormones that play a critical role in brain development and sexual maturation by acting upon both androgen receptors (AR) and estrogen receptors (ERα/β) after aromatization. The contribution of estrogens from aromatized androgens in brain development and the central regulation of metabolism, reproduction, and behavior is well defined, but the role of androgens acting on AR has been unappreciated. Here, we map the sex specific expression of Ar in the adult and developing mouse brain. Postnatal days (PND) 12 and 21 were used to target a critical window of prepubertal development. Consistent with previous literature in adults, sex‐specific differences in Ar expression were most profound in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST), medial amygdala (MEA) and medial preoptic area (MPO). Ar expression was also high in these areas at PND 12 and 21 in both sexes. In addition, we describe extra‐hypothalamic and extra‐limbic areas that show moderate, consistent and similar Ar expression in both sexes at both prepubertal time points. Briefly, Ar expression was observed in olfactory areas of the cerebral cortex, the hippocampus, several thalamic nuclei, and cranial nerve nuclei involved in autonomic sensory and motor function. To further characterize forebrain populations of Ar expressing neurons and determine whether they also coexpress estrogen receptors, we examined expression of Ar, Esr1 and Esr2 in prepubertal mice in selected nuclei. We found populations of neurons in the BST, MEA and MPO that coexpress Ar, but not Esr1 or Esr2, whereas others express a combination of the three receptors. Our findings indicate that various brain areas express Ar during prepubertal development and may play an important role in female neuronal development and physiology.
Does depletion have a bright side? Self‐regulation exertion heightens creative engagement
Authors: Ho Cony M. , Lin Szu‐Han ( Joanna) , Johnson Russell E.
Published: November 2021

Resource‐based theories posit that exerting self‐control to regulate one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors depletes people's available self‐regulatory resources, leaving them depleted and less able to exert self‐control in subsequent activities. Although the detrimental effects of depletion are well‐established, we challenge this prevailing view by proposing that depletion can have unexpected beneficial effects. Across multiple studies, our current research provides evidence that depletion shifts consumers' attention on benefits of creativity, and in turn influences their subsequent creative engagement. Specifically, we found that depletion increases consumers' persistence in creative activity, and this beneficial effect of depletion on creative engagement is explained by their attention on benefits of creativity. Furthermore, we explore a boundary conditions of this depletion‐creative engagement effect by demonstrating that the effect could be attenuated for individuals who are not open to new experiences.
Forced Entrepreneurs
Authors: HACAMO ISAAC , KLEINER KRISTOPH
Published: November 2021

Conventional wisdom suggests that labor market distress drives workers into temporary self‐employment, lowering entrepreneurial quality. Analyzing employment histories for 640,000 U.S. workers, we document that graduating college during a period of high unemployment does increase entry to entrepreneurship. However, compared to voluntary entrepreneurs, firms founded by forced entrepreneurs are more likely to survive, innovate, and receive venture backing. Explaining these results, we confirm that labor shocks disproportionately impact high earners, with these workers starting more successful firms. Overall, we document untapped entrepreneurial potential across the top of the income distribution and the role of recessions in reversing this missing entrepreneurship.
Tower block refurbishment, flats, and understandings of ownership
Authors: BRIGHT SUSAN
Published: November 2021

This article uses the research findings from a study of the refurbishment of council tower blocks to reflect on what it means to be a leaseholder of a flat, and how this relates to ideas associated with property and ownership. The experiences of leaseholders (little input into decision making and the fear of crippling bills), together with the challenges for the building owner of upgrading blocks within a prevailing property narrative of exclusion, are also echoed in the unfolding building safety crisis in flats that has emerged following the Grenfell Tower fire. Both reveal the vulnerability of flat owners. Overall, it is shown that the property law regime does not currently meet the ownership expectations of those buying flats and is poorly designed to provide for the longevity of safe and well‐maintained buildings.
Sleep‐disordered breathing and malocclusion in children and adolescents—a systematic review
Authors: Hansen Camilla , Markström Agneta , Sonnesen Liselotte
Published: November 2021

Background

Sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB) has negative influence on children's development and well‐being. Malocclusion due to some craniofacial anatomical characteristics may be associated with SDB.

Objectives

The aim of this paper is to ascertain whether SDB is associated with malocclusion in children/adolescents, aged 6–15 years compared to healthy controls.

Methods

Prospero ID: CRD42021232103. A systematic electronic literature search following PRISMA was performed in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library. Inclusion criteria were as follows: Healthy children/adolescents aged 6–15 years with malocclusion undergoing polysomnography (PSG) or polygraphy (PG) and/or sleep questionnaire and orthodontic screening; compared to a healthy age‐matched control group with neutral or minor deviation in the occlusion without requirement for orthodontic treatment; publications in English, Danish, Norwegian or Swedish published until 23 March 2021. JBI Critical Appraisal Tools and GRADE were used to evaluate the risk of bias and level of evidence.

Results

The search resulted in 1996 records, 610 duplicates were removed, 1386 records were screened, and 1322 records were excluded. Sixty‐four studies were selected for full‐text reading, and four publications fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The included studies had moderate risk of bias, and the quality of evidence was low.

Conclusion

No firm conclusion can be drawn regarding an association between specific malocclusion traits and SDB. Thus, the studies found no association between molar relationship and crowding and SDB symptoms in children. It may be recommended that future studies include objective PSG or PG in diagnosis of SDB and compare groups of children with skeletal malocclusion and controls with neutral malocclusion.
The pharmacokinetic characteristics of sulfadiazine in channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) following oral and intravenous administrations
Authors: Xu Ning , Fu Yu , Zhang Xiaomei , Liu Yongtao , Yang Yibin , Zhou Shun , Dong Jing , Yang Qiuhong , Ai Xiaohui
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to determine the bioavailability and pharmacokinetic parameters of sulfadiazine (SDZ) in channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) following oral gavage and intravenous injection. The healthy channel catfish were orally and intravenously administrated with SDZ solution at doses of 50 and 5 mg/kg, respectively. Plasma samples were determined by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography with an ultraviolet detector. The results demonstrated that the concentration‐time profile of SDZ after oral dosing was best described by a one‐compartmental open model with first‐order absorption. The absorption half‐life (t1/2Kα), the elimination half‐life (t1/2Ke), and the area under concentration‐time profile (AUC0‐∞) were estimated to be 0.87 h, 29.04 h, and 1311.72 mg.h/L, respectively. After intravenous administration, the concentration‐time curve of SDZ conformed to a two‐compartmental open model without absorption. The distribution half‐life (t1/2α), the elimination half‐life (t1/2β), the apparent distribution volume (Vss), the total clearance (CL), and AUC0‐∞ were calculated to be 0.19 h, 14.24 h, 0.36 L/kg, 0.018 L/h/kg, and 277.12 mg.h/L, respectively. Finally, the bioavailability was estimated to be 47.33%. This study will provide some useful information for the modification of the dosage form of SDZ in aquaculture, and is partly beneficial for appropriate use of SDZ in the future.
3He flux obtained from South Pole air and snow‐ice and its connection to interplanetary dust particles
Authors: Farley Kenneth A. , Taylor Susan , Treffkorn Jonathan , Lever James H. , Gow Anthony L.
Published: November 2021

Researchers have characterized extraterrestrial (ET) helium, likely carried by interplanetary dust particles (IDPs), in deep‐sea sediments spanning more than the last 100 Myr. Here we complement those low resolution and deep time studies by measuring He in modern Antarctic air and recent ice. We analyzed 180 air filter samples collected in 2017 and 2018 at the South Pole and detected 3He above blank levels in 178. The filters collected during the austral springs had elevated 3He in multiple subsamples indicating the presence of many individual IDPs and potentially, a temporal variation in the ET small particle flux. Our calculated mean 3He flux of 1.4 ± 1.2 × 10−12 cc STP cm−2 ka−1 is the first such measurement from air samples. We also melted, filtered, and analyzed one hundred and forty‐one 1 m‐long ice sections from a ˜2000‐yr‐old South Pole core. We detected 3He above blank levels in 139 of the 141 ice core samples and calculated an average flux of 1.2 ± 0.3 × 10−12 cc STP cm−2 ka−1. Our two flux values are within a factor of two of those calculated from stratospheric IDP concentrations, those previously measured for sections of the GISP2 and Vostok ice cores, and from sediment cores from different locations and ages. The similarity of these flux values over disparate time scales (1–108 yr) and geographic locations (90° S to equator) indicates modest temporal variability and remarkable agreement among diverse IDP archives. These data provide a compelling link from IDPs collected in the stratosphere to those recorded in deep time sedimentary archives.
Ecological stoichiometry and fungal community turnover reveal variation among mycorrhizal partners in their responses to warming and drought
Authors: Zhang Haiyang , Churchill Amber C. , Anderson Ian C. , Igwenagu Chioma , Power Sally A. , Plett Jonathan M. , Macdonald Catriona A. , Pendall Elise , Carrillo Yolima , Powell Jeff R.
Published: November 2021

Symbiotic fungi mediate important energy and nutrient transfers in terrestrial ecosystems. Environmental change can lead to shifts in communities of symbiotic fungi, but the consequences of these shifts for nutrient dynamics among symbiotic partners are poorly understood. Here, we assessed variation in carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in tissues of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and a host plant (Medicago sativa) in response to experimental warming and drought. We linked compositional shifts in AM fungal communities in roots and soil to variation in hyphal chemistry by using high‐throughput DNA sequencing and joint species distribution modelling. Compared to plants, AM hyphae was 43% lower in (C) and 24% lower in (N) but more than nine times higher in (P), with significantly lower C:N, C:P and N:P ratios. Warming and drought resulted in increases in (P) and reduced C:P and N:P ratios in all tissues, indicating fungal P accumulation was exacerbated by climate‐associated stress. Warming and drought modified the composition of AM fungal communities, and many of the AM fungal genera that were linked to shifts in mycelial chemistry were also negatively impacted by climate variation. Our study offers a unified framework to link climate change, fungal community composition, and community‐level functional traits. Thus, our study provides insight into how environmental change can alter ecosystem functions via the promotion or reduction of fungal taxa with different stoichiometric characteristics and responses.
Modeling acute and chronic vascular responses to a major arterial occlusion
Authors: Zhao Erin , Barber Jared , Sen Chandan K. , Arciero Julia
Published: November 2021

Objective

To incorporate chronic vascular adaptations into a mathematical model of the rat hindlimb to simulate flow restoration following total occlusion of the femoral artery.

Methods

A vascular wall mechanics model is used to simulate acute and chronic vascular adaptations in the collateral arteries and collateral‐dependent arterioles of the rat hindlimb. On an acute timeframe, the vascular tone of collateral arteries and distal arterioles is determined by responses to pressure, shear stress, and metabolic demand. On a chronic timeframe, sustained dilation of arteries and arterioles induces outward vessel remodeling represented by increased passive vessel diameter (arteriogenesis), and low venous oxygen saturation levels induce the growth of new capillaries represented by increased capillary number (angiogenesis).

Results

The model predicts that flow compensation to an occlusion is enhanced primarily by arteriogenesis of the collateral arteries on a chronic time frame. Blood flow autoregulation is predicted to be disrupted and to occur for higher pressure values following femoral arterial occlusion.

Conclusions

Structural adaptation of the vasculature allows for increased blood flow to the collateral‐dependent region after occlusion. Although flow is still below pre‐occlusion levels, model predictions indicate that interventions which enhance collateral arteriogenesis would have the greatest potential for restoring flow.
South Asian (Clade I) Candida auris meningitis in a paediatric patient in Iran with a review of the literature
Authors: Mirhendi Hossein , Charsizadeh Arezou , Aboutalebian Shima , Mohammadpour Masoud , Nikmanesh Bahram , de Groot Theun , Meis Jacques F. , Badali Hamid
Published: November 2021

Candida meningitis is a rare life‐threatening yeast infection mostly involving immunocompromised or paediatric patients undergoing neurosurgical procedures or shunt placement. Due to difficulties in diagnosis because of diverse clinical manifestations, the number of patients affected is most likely underestimated. Therefore, the correct diagnosis may be delayed for months, and accurate species identification is highly recommended for administering appropriate antifungal therapy. We report the first case of fluconazole‐resistant Candida auris meningitis in a paediatric patient in Iran. This strain was probably imported, as it genotypically belonged to Clade I from South Asia. Furthermore, we include a literature review of C auris meningitis cases, as the number of cases with C auris meningitis has increased with reports from the United Kingdom, India and Iran. This problem might increase further in the era of COVID‐19 due to attrition of experienced healthcare personnel and a high workload of hospital healthcare workers. To understand the precise prevalence of this emerging multidrug resistance pathogen, epidemiological surveillance studies are urgently warranted.
End stage renal disease has an early and continuous detrimental effect on regulatory T cells
Authors: Sampani Erasmia , Vagiotas Lampis , Daikidou Dimitra‐Vasilia , Nikolaidou Vasiliki , Xochelli Aliki , Kasimatis Efstratios , Lioulios George , Dimitriadis Chrysostomos , Fylaktou Asimina , Papagianni Aikaterini , Stangou Maria
Published: November 2021

End stage renal disease (ESRD) is followed by disturbed adaptive immunity, together with alterations in T cell subsets, including CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ cells (Tregs). In the present study, we assessed the effect of haemodialysis (HD) on the Treg population. CD3+CD4+, CD3+CD8+ and CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ cells were estimated by flow cytometry in 142 ESRD patients (45 ESRD‐preHD, 97 on HD) and 30 healthy controls (HC). Patients on HD were classified into three groups according to time on dialysis (HD vintage – HDV): A < 2 years, B: 2–5 years and C: >5 years on HD. The mean age of patients on HD (M/F 53/44) was 54.8 ± 14 years and the median HDV 58 (78) months. We observed a significant progressive reduction in the percentage and count of lymphocytes (p < .001, p < .001, respectively), CD3+CD4+ (p = .003 and, p < .001, respectively) and Tregs (p = .001 and, p < .001, respectively), between HC, ESRD‐preHD and HD patients. HDV had a significant inverse correlation with total lymphocyte, CD3+CD4+ and Treg cell counts (p = .001, p < .001, p < .001, respectively) and, the percentage of lymphocytes and CD3+CD4+ cells (p = .005, p = .01, respectively). Furthermore, we stratified patients on HD into three groups according to HDV: A < 2 years, B: 2–5 years and C: >5 years on HD. Total lymphocytes and Tregs were significantly different among the three vintage groups (Kruskal–Wallis H test, p < .001, p < .001 respectively). CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ cells were also significantly affected (p < .001 and p = .001, respectively), after at least 2 years of HD. Tregs show prompt and significant reduction at the pre‐dialysis stage, and continue to decrease gradually even after long‐term HD, in a context of total lymphocyte reduction.