bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of hyperdispersal in wildlife translocations
Authors: Bilby Jack , Moseby Katherine
Published: March 2023

Species translocation is a common tool to reverse biodiversity loss, but it has a high failure rate. One factor that contributes to failure is postrelease hyperdispersal, which we define as the long‐distance movement of individuals resulting in their failure to contribute to population establishment. We reviewed reported incidences of hyperdispersal and compared rates of hyperdispersal among taxa, population demographics, release cohorts, and success of mitigation techniques. Of 151 conservation translocations (reinforcements and reintroductions) in which animals were tracked, hyperdispersal was confirmed in 52.1% of programs. The prevalence of hyperdispersal (percentage of studies) was relatively consistent across taxa (42.9–60%), but hyperdispersal rates in birds were likely underestimated because 76.9% of bird translocations showed incidences in which birds could not be located after release, but hyperdispersal was unable to be confirmed. Eutherians exhibited a higher average incidence of hyperdispersal (percentage of hyperdispersing individuals in a cohort) of 20.2% than birds, reptiles, and marsupials (10.4%, 15.7%, and 10.3%, respectively). No significant trends were observed for sex, source population, or translocation type, but there were nonsignificant trends for males to hyperdisperse more than females and for higher incidences of hyperdispersal in reinforcements relative to reintroduction programs. Mitigation techniques included temporary confinement, supplementation of resources, and releasing animals in social groups, but only half of studies examining mitigation techniques found them useful. Hyperdispersal incidence was variable within taxa, and we advise against forming translocations strategies based on results from other species. Hyperdispersal is a significant welfare, economic, and conservation issue in translocations, and we suggest definitions, reporting, and experimental strategies to address it.
Identifying climate change refugia for South American biodiversity
Authors: Sales Lilian P. , Pires Mathias M.
Published: March 2023

Refugia‐based conservation offers long‐term effectiveness and minimize uncertainty on strategies for climate change adaptation. We used distribution modelling to identify climate change refugia for 617 terrestrial mammals and to quantify the role of protected areas (PAs) in providing refugia across South America. To do so, we compared species potential distribution across different scenarios of climate change, highlighting those regions likely to retain suitable climatic conditions by year 2090, and explored the proportion of refugia inside PAs. Moist tropical forests in high‐elevation areas with complex topography concentrated the highest local diversity of species refugia, although regionally important refugia centers occurred elsewhere. Andean–Amazon forests contained climate change refugia for more than half of the continental species’ pool and for up to 87 species locally (17 × 17 km2 grid cell). The highlands of the southern Atlantic Forest also included megadiverse refugia for up to 76 species per cell. Almost half of the species that may find refugia in the Atlantic Forest will do so in a single region—the Serra do Mar and Serra do Espinhaço. Most of the refugia we identified, however, were not in PAs, which may contain <6% of the total area of climate change refugia, leaving 129–237 species with no refugia inside the territorial limits of PAs of any kind. Our results reveal a dismal scenario for the level of refugia protection in some of the most biodiverse regions of the world. Nonetheless, because refugia tend to be in high‐elevation, topographically complex, and remote areas, with lower anthropogenic pressure, formally protecting them may require a comparatively modest investment.
The effect of Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs on county‐level opioid prescribing practices and spillovers
Authors: Shakya Shishir , Ruseski Jane E.
Published: March 2023

Most states now legally mandate providers to access the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) database before prescribing controlled substances like opioids. We exploit variation in the adoption of these “must access” mandates between 2010 and 2017 to evaluate their impact on prescribing behavior. We find that counties in “must access” PDMP states have 5.5 fewer retail opioid prescriptions per 100 persons compared to counties in “voluntary access” PDMP states. We find evidence of geographic spillovers in opioid prescribing behavior. Our results underscore the importance recognizing the potential for cross‐border shopping when designing interventions to combat opioid misuse.
America's decoupling from China: A perspective from stock markets
Authors: Liu Kerry
Published: March 2023

America's decoupling‐from‐China debate started after July 2018, reached its peak in August 2020, and is likely to continue even if it may not be a high priority for the Biden administration. Many studies have examined various aspects of this issue, especially the potential economic impacts on the US economy. Unlike previous research, this study looks at the response of stock markets. Using Google Trends data, this study created a weekly dataset from January 2020 to June 2021 to measure investor sentiment towards the US decoupling from China. Employing the generalised autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) models, the study finds that concern over decoupling is associated with significant variations in stock market prices. From this we can infer that the overall effects of decoupling on the US economy are likely to be considerable.
The effect of cyclic stress amplitude on macro‐meso failure of rock under triaxial confining pressure unloading
Authors: Wang Yu , Yan Mingqi , Song Weibin
Published: March 2023

This work aims to explore the impact of cyclic stress amplitude (CSA) on the macro‐meso failure characteristics of deeply buried rock under confining pressure unloading process. The experimental results show that the deterioration of rock structure is influenced by the disturbed stress amplitude. It is found that the lateral expansion induced by confining pressure unloading has a great impact on rock volumetric deformation, damage propagation, and failure characteristics. Additionally, a damage evolution model is proposed and expressed using the irreversible lateral strain. The model is available to express the progressive damage evolution pattern. Finally, CT images investigate the complexity of the crack network, and it decreases with increasing CSA. It is suggested that the final volumetric deformation does not simply depend on the stimulated crack pattern but also on the failure modes. A specimen with the pure shear failure mode has the largest volumetric deformation.
Localized strain evolution and accumulation at the notch tip of an aluminum single crystal under cyclic loading
Authors: Deka Nipal , Singh Mahavir , Jonnalagadda Krishna N.
Published: March 2023

A synchronized analysis of strain localization and slip system interaction, with full‐field strain mapping, in the vicinity of a notch tip in aluminum single crystal is presented. Progressive strain accumulation, prominently along one of the slip shear bands, was demonstrated quantitatively under cyclic loading, using digital image correlation. This dominant slip band potentially critical for the nucleation and growth of a crack. Also, triple slip active regions found on the surface indicate the participation of all three in‐plane slip systems. Therefore, the use of either diagonal or weakly coupled hardening rule is recommended even in aluminum single crystals, instead of the commonly used isotropic models. Finally, the results from this work provide quantitative data on the progressive strain accumulation and localization around a notch under cyclic loading that can be used in model validation for single and polycrystal plasticity.
An efficient virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) system for gene functional studies in Miscanthus
Authors: He Guo , Zhao Xuhong , Xu Yan , Wang Yu , Zhang Zhihai , Xiao Liang , Hudson Matthew , Hu Ruibo , Li Shengjun
Published: March 2023

Virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) is a powerful tool for transient gene functional analysis in plants, especially for monocot species (e.g., grasses) that are recalcitrant to transformation. Despite various VIGS systems that have been developed in different plant species, none was previously available for the bioenergy crop Miscanthus. Here, we report the establishment of an efficient and robust VIGS system mediated by Tobacco Rattle Virus (TRV) in Miscanthus. We first investigated the impact of various factors that may affect gene silencing efficiency using theMiscanthus sinensis Phytoene Desaturase(MsPDS) gene as a visual indicator of photobleaching. Then, we optimized the TRV‐elicited VIGS procedure using an orthogonal experimental design with four factors (sprout size, Agrobacterium concentration, vacuum infiltration time, and co‐incubation time) each at three levels. The following led to the highest silencing efficiency (~76%): inoculation of germinating seedlings (1.0–2.0 mm),Agrobacterium tumefaciensculture grown to optical density at 600 nm (OD600) of 0.4, vacuum infiltration for 90 min, and co‐incubation for 5 h. The VIGS system established was applicable for bothM. sinensisandM. lutarioriparius,with comparable gene silencing efficiency. We verified the efficacy of the VIGS system via the functional characterization of the role of a MYB transcription factor, MsMYB112, in salt stress tolerance. Expression ofMsMYB112was successfully knocked down using the VIGS system, and this led to compromised salt tolerance in the silenced Miscanthus plants. The TRV‐based VIGS system established may, therefore, substantially facilitate functional genomic studies in Miscanthus.
A rapid review of interventions to improve medicine self‐management for older people living at home
Authors: Previdoli Giorgia , Cheong V‐Lin , Alldred David , Tomlinson Justine , Tyndale‐Biscoe Savi , Silcock Jonathan , Okeowo Daniel , Fylan Beth
Published: March 2023

Background

As people age, they are more likely to develop multiple long‐term conditions that require complicated medicine regimens. Safely self‐managing multiple medicines at home is challenging and how older people can be better supported to do so has not been fully explored.

Aim

This study aimed to identify interventions to improve medicine self‐management for older people living at home and the aspects of medicine self‐management that they address.

Design

A rapid review was undertaken of publications up to April 2022. Eight databases were searched. Inclusion criteria were as follows: interventions aimed at people 65 years of age or older and their informal carers, living at home. Interventions needed to include at least one component of medicine self‐management. Study protocols, conference papers, literature reviews and articles not in the English language were not included. The results from the review were reported through narrative synthesis, underpinned by the Resilient Healthcare theory.

Results

Database searches returned 14,353 results. One hundred and sixty‐seven articles were individually appraised (full‐text screening) and 33 were included in the review. The majority of interventions identified were educational. In most cases, they aimed to improve older people's adherence and increase their knowledge of medicines. Only very few interventions addressed potential issues with medicine supply. Only a minority of interventions specifically targeted older people with either polypharmacy, multimorbidities or frailty.

Conclusion

To date, the emphasis in supporting older people to manage their medicines has been on the ability to adhere to medicine regimens. Most interventions identify and target deficiencies within the patient, rather than preparing patients for problems inherent in the medicine management system. Medicine self‐management requires a much wider range of skills than taking medicines as prescribed. Interventions supporting older people to anticipate and respond to problems with their medicines may reduce the risk of harm associated with polypharmacy and may contribute to increased resilience in the system.

Patient or Public Contribution

A patient with lived experience of medicine self‐management in older age contributed towards shaping the research question as well as the inclusion and exclusion criteria for this review. She is also the coauthor of this article. A patient advisory group oversaw the study.
Diverse phenolic responses of six varietal wines (Vitis vinifera L.) throughout ageing in contact with a single type of oak barrels
Authors: Obreque‐Slier Elías , Molina‐Tejada Nelly , Medel‐Marabolí Marcela , López‐Solís Remigio
Published: March 2023

Barrel ageing is a critical process in wine industry since it produces substantial changes in the chemical composition of wines. The transfer of polyphenols from wood to wine would be influenced by various factors including wood characteristics and storage conditions. The role of the wine matrix in the extraction/modification of polyphenols during wine ageing has been scarcely studied. The objective of this study was to characterise and compare the phenolic composition of six varietal wines (Carménère, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese and Tempranillo) during ageing in a single type of oak barrel aiming to learn about the role of the variety on the ageing process. Wine sampling was performed at 3‐month intervals for 1 year. Polyphenol profiles were analysed using spectrophotometric and HPLC‐DAD methods. The study showed that the effect of oak wood ageing on the phenolic composition of wines is highly influenced by the grape variety. Thus, different polyphenol‐associated chemical parameters of oak‐aged wines would be affected by chemical properties of the varietal wines that are present prior to barrel ageing.
Substitutional effect of Mg2+ on structural and magnetic properties of La2MgxNi1‐xMnO6 double‐perovskite thin films
Authors: Wang Chuanbin , Shi Junwei , Gan Hui , Wang Xiufen , Hu Mingzhe
Published: March 2023

By doping different concentrations of Mg2+ at Ni site, the (00l)‐oriented La2MgxNi1‐xMnO6 (abbreviated as LMxNMO, x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4) double‐perovskite thin films were epitaxially grown by pulsed laser deposition. The substitutional effect of Mg2+ on the structural and magnetic properties of the films is comprehensively investigated. It is found that with the increase of Mg‐doping concentration, the in‐plane and out‐of‐plane lattice constants as well as the cell volume of the LMxNMO thin films increase, which could be ascribed to the radius difference between Mg2+ and Ni2+/Ni3+ ions, resulting in the in‐plane compressive stress in LMxNMO films. When the Mg‐doping concentration is small (x ≤ 0.1), the doped Mg2+ tends to substitute Ni3+, which restrains the intensity of antiferromagnetic interaction between Ni3+‐O‐Mn3+, resulting in the reduced the exchange bias field as well as the increased the saturation magnetization. However, when the Mg‐doping concentration increases to x ≥ 0.2, Mg2+ becomes to mainly replace Ni2+ position, which could inhibit the super‐exchange ferromagnetic interaction between Ni2+‐O‐Mn4+ magnetic paths and thus reduce the saturation magnetization. The enhanced magnetic properties can be obtained in the LM0.1NMO double‐perovskite thin film, with a large saturation magnetization of 492.12 emu/cm3 and a high Curie temperature of 262.7 K.
Chemical, functional, rheological and structural properties of broken rice–barnyard millet–green gram grits blend for the production of extrudates
Authors: Nisha R. , Nickhil C. , Pandiarajan T. , Pandiselvam R. , Jithender Bhukya , Kothakota Anjineyulu
Published: March 2023

Broken rice is an underutilized by‐product of the rice milling industry. It was added with green gram and barnyard millet to investigate as a source of nutrition‐based value‐added food product. The study was carried out to examine the influence of formulated composite flour obtained from broken rice (Oryza sativa) (50%–80%), barnyard millet (Echinochloa esculenta) (10%–30%), and green gram (Vigna radiata) (10%–30%) on the chemical properties, functional properties, pasting properties, oscillatory test, flour behavior, and microstructure of extrudate. The ash, crude fiber, crude protein, fat, and carbohydrate of the extrudate ranged from 1.62%–1.78%, 1.88%–2.43%, 13.47%–14.57%, 4.9%–7.48%, and 66.86%–70.8%, respectively. The water absorption index (WAI) and water solubility index (WSI) for the flour ranged from 5.06%–6.18 g/g and 2.34%–3.99%. The formulated composite flours having a higher percentage of broken rice showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in their pasting properties, pasting temperature, peak viscosity, breakdown viscosity, and setback and final viscosity. The pasting properties gave better results using a twin‐screw extruder with operating conditions of barrel temperature of 110°C, screw speed of 290 rpm, and 14% moisture content (w.b.). The microstructure of the extrudate obtained from 80% broken rice, 10% barnyard millet, and 10% green gram grits flour possessed a more integrated, well‐defined porosity, indicating a completely gelatinized structure.

Practical application

Determination of biochemical, structural, and rheological properties of ingredients are essential for the production desirable ready‐to‐eat snacks. In this context, the present study evaluated the functional and rheological properties of broken rice–barnyard millet–green gram blend for the production of nutritious snacks with desirable physical and textural properties. The findings of the study would be useful for food products industries using millets and broken rice as a major raw material.
Milestone Review: Excitatory amino acid transporters – Beyond their expected function
Authors: Martinez‐Lozada Zila , Ortega Arturo
Published: March 2023

Glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the vertebrate brain, it is critically involved in the function and dysfunction of the central nervous system. The molecular cloning of its ionotropic receptors in the last decade of the past century increased exponentially the interest in this neurotransmitter system. Since then, a plethora of knowledge of the structure, function, and regulation of its receptors and transporters has advanced our understanding of glutamate‐mediated neurochemical transactions. Moreover, the characterization of glial glutamate receptors together with the compulsory participation of surrounding astrocytes in glutamate turnover and in the known metabolic coupling with neurons has supported what is now known as the tripartite synapses. The molecular characterization of the various glutamate transporters has also been fundamental for the involvement of glial cells in glutamatergic synapses. Using radial glial cultures, over the years, we have demonstrated an alternative glutamate‐mediated signaling system triggered by sodium‐dependent glutamate transporters. A detailed account of these findings and the signaling through other glutamate transporters are presented here. The role of this signaling system in the context of glutamatergic transmission is discussed as well as the future directions in the field.

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Potential genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in insomnia: A systematic review
Authors: Palagini Laura , Geoffroy Pierre A. , Gehrman Philip R. , Miniati Mario , Gemignani Angelo , Riemann Dieter
Published: March 2023

Insomnia is a stress‐related sleep disorder conceptualised within a diathesis‐stress framework, which it is thought to result from predisposing factors interacting with precipitating stressful events that trigger the development of insomnia. Among predisposing factors genetics and epigenetics may play a role. A systematic review of the current evidence for the genetic and epigenetic basis of insomnia was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) system. A total of 24 studies were collected for twins and family heritability, 55 for genome‐wide association studies, 26 about candidate genes for insomnia, and eight for epigenetics. Data showed that insomnia is a complex polygenic stress‐related disorder, and it is likely to be caused by a synergy of genetic and environmental factors, with stress‐related sleep reactivity being the important trait. Even if few studies have been conducted to date on insomnia, epigenetics may be the framework to understand long‐lasting consequences of the interaction between genetic and environmental factors and effects of stress on the brain in insomnia. Interestingly, polygenic risk for insomnia has been causally linked to different mental and medical disorders. Probably, by treating insomnia it would be possible to intervene on the effect of stress on the brain and prevent some medical and mental conditions.
A coordinated ramp metering framework based on heterogeneous causal inference
Authors: Peng Chang , Xu Chengcheng
Published: March 2023

The coordinated ramp metering strategy aims to enhance the traffic flow on freeways by integrating the effects of multiple on‐ramps. The success of this strategy depends heavily on the metering effects of each on‐ramp and the cooperation pattern. To ensure the effectiveness of coordination control, it is essential to design the coordinated strategy based on the causal effect of each ramp flow on the freeway bottleneck. Therefore, this study investigated the heterogeneous causal effects of ramp flow on freeway bottleneck and proposed a coordinated ramp metering framework based on these causal effects. Causal inference was conducted using loop detector data. The estimated heterogeneous causal effect, which varies across traffic conditions, measures the change of bottleneck occupancy resulting from a unit increase in each on‐ramp outflow. This information quantifies the importance of each ramp in real time and can be used to update the ramp weight and metering rate of each ramp controller. To comprehensively test the proposed coordination framework, two instances with different road networks were selected. In the first instance, limiting the on‐ramp flow downstream of the bottleneck was found to be helpful in mitigating the bottleneck. Compared with isolated ramp metering, the proposed algorithm reduced travel delay by 26.0% by considering the heterogeneous causal effects of on‐ramp flow both upstream and downstream of the freeway bottleneck. In the next instance, the proposed algorithm reduced travel delay by 5.8%, compared to a well‐performed feedback‐based coordinated ramp metering algorithm. The results of this study suggest that the use of heterogeneous causal inference is effective in improving the performance of coordinated ramp metering algorithms.
Occurrence of focal myositis during Behçet's disease: The identification of a specific vasculitis‐associated focal myopathy
Authors: Gallay Laure , Hot Arnaud , Allenbach Yves , Maucort‐Boulch Delphine , Comarmond Cloe , Marques Cindy , Perard Laurent , Simon Anne , Mariampillai Kuberaka , Cacoub Patrice , Mery‐Bossard Laure , Cathebras Pascal , Feasson Leonard , Berezne Alice , Morati Chafika , Lessard Lola , Faruch Marie , Streichenberger Nathalie , Saadoun David ,   From the French Behçet's Network
Published: March 2023

Aims

This study aimed to report the association of focal myositis (FM) and Behçet's disease (BD) and to analyse the main characteristics of such an association.

Methods

This is a retrospective multicentre study of patients with BD and FM (BD + FM+ group) and those without FM (BD − FM+ group). Clinical, laboratory, radiological, pathological, treatment and outcome data were analysed.

Results

The BD + FM+ group included 10 patients; the median [interquartile range] age at BD diagnosis was 25 [16–35] years, and at FM diagnosis, it was 30 [26–42] years. The diagnosis of BD preceded FM in the majority of cases (n = 8/10). FM occurrence was associated with BD flare‐ups in three cases. The creatine kinase levels remained normal or slightly increased. Histological analyses identified relatively preserved muscle tissue, associated with vasculitis (n = 5/6). All patients required treatment; most patients relapsed (n = 9/10). The BD − FM+ group included 35 patients. A comparison of the groups identified a trend towards a younger median age at diagnosis of FM among those with BD (p = 0.063) and more frequent focal muscle swelling in the BD + FM+ group (p = 0.029). The pathological analysis identified significantly less frequent muscle alterations in the BD + FM+ group (muscle fibre size heterogeneity, p = 0.021; necrosis, p = 0.007; and fibrosis, p = 0.027). BD + FM+ patients had a higher frequency of relapse (p = 0.003) and systematic treatment (p = 0.042).

Conclusions

FM occurring during BD appears to be part of the systemic vasculitis process and presents as a vasculitis‐associated focal myopathy with a specific clinico‐histological pattern. Patients with this association require long‐term follow‐up and adapted management. This case series also highlights the need for research on BD diagnostic criteria in cases of FM.
Psammogeton suchaniense sp. nov. (Apiaceae; Pimpinelleae) from India
Authors: Bhellum B. L. , Magotra Rani
Published: March 2023

Psammogeton suchaniense sp. nov. (Apiaceae; Pimpinelleae), found in arid, sandy areas of district Samba of Jammu and Kashmir, north‐west India, is described and illustrated. It shares similarities with P. biternatus and P. canescens, but differs from these species in that it has a reduced peduncle, axillary and terminal umbels, unequal bracts, bracteoles and hairy mericarps and fewer rays per inflorescence. A thorough description, photographs, a map of the collection site, an identification key to all Indian species of Psammogeton and a table with the morphological features of related species are all presented.
Dynamics and mechanisms of secondary invasion following biological control of an invasive plant
Authors: Shen Changchao , Chen Pengdong , Zhang Kaoping , He Minyan , Wan Jinlong , Wang Yi , Tao Zhibin , Huang Wei , Siemann Evan
Published: March 2023

Secondary invasions in which nontarget invaders expand following eradication of a target invader commonly occur in habitats with multiple invasive plant species and can prevent recovery of native communities. However, the dynamics and mechanisms of secondary invasion remain unclear.

Here, we conducted a common garden experiment to test underlying mechanisms of secondary invasion for 14 nontarget invaders after biological control of Ambrosia artemisiifolia in two consecutive years.

We found secondary invasion for all tested nontarget invaders, but secondary invasiveness (change relative to natives) varied with species and time. Specifically, secondary invasiveness depended most strongly on phylogenetic relatedness between the target and nontarget invaders in the first year with closely related nontarget invaders being most invasive. By contrast, secondary invasiveness in the second year was mostly driven by functional traits with taller nontarget invaders or those with higher specific leaf area, or smaller seeds especially invasive.

Our study indicates that secondary invasion is likely to occur wherever other invasive plants co‐occur with an invasive species targeted for control. Furthermore, the most problematic invaders will initially be species closely related to the target invader but then species with rapid growth and high reproduction are most likely to be more aggressive secondary invaders.
AZG1 is a cytokinin transporter that interacts with auxin transporter PIN1 and regulates the root stress response
Authors: Tessi Tomás M. , Maurino Veronica G. , Shahriari Mojgan , Meissner Esther , Novak Ondrej , Pasternak Taras , Schumacher Benjamin S. , Ditengou Franck , Li Zenglin , Duerr Jasmin , Flubacher Noemi S. , Nautscher Moritz , Williams Alyssa , Kazimierczak Zuzanna , Strnad Miroslav , Thumfart Jörg‐Oliver , Palme Klaus , Desimone Marcelo , Teale William D.
Published: March 2023

An environmentally responsive root system is crucial for plant growth and crop yield, especially in suboptimal soil conditions. This responsiveness enables the plant to exploit regions of high nutrient density while simultaneously minimizing abiotic stress. Despite the vital importance of root systems in regulating plant growth, significant gaps of knowledge exist in the mechanisms that regulate their architecture.

Auxin defines both the frequency of lateral root (LR) initiation and the rate of LR outgrowth. Here, we describe a search for proteins that regulate root system architecture (RSA) by interacting directly with a key auxin transporter, PIN1. The native separation of Arabidopsis plasma membrane protein complexes identified several PIN1 co‐purifying proteins.

Among them, AZG1 was subsequently confirmed as a PIN1 interactor. Here, we show that, in Arabidopsis, AZG1 is a cytokinin (CK) import protein that co‐localizes with and stabilizes PIN1, linking auxin and CK transport streams. AZG1 expression in LR primordia is sensitive to NaCl, and the frequency of LRs is AZG1‐dependent under salt stress.

This report therefore identifies a potential point for auxin:cytokinin crosstalk, which shapes RSA in response to NaCl.
Decolonizing research with Black youths
Authors: Salami Bukola
Published: March 2023

Black youths experience poor mental health especially due to anti‐Black racism. Research related to Black youths have been conducted on Black youths with little or no participation or engagement rather than with Black youths. This paper presents information from a dialogue on decolonizing nursing research. I draw on interviews and conversation cafes with around 120 Black youths in Canada to identify strategies for decolonizing research with Black youths. First, I reflect on my relations with the Indigenous land in which the study was conducted as well as my positionality as a Black woman. In this paper, I discuss how community based participatory action research can integrate capacity building component, amplify youth's voices and capitalize on the agency of youths as fruitful actors. I also reflect on the opportunities and benefits of decolonizing nursing research.
Duration of stages of the Middle Phalanx Maturation method in a contemporary population: A 6‐year longitudinal analysis
Authors: Pozzan Lucia , Zentilin Giulia , Ulian Giulia , Contardo Luca
Published: March 2023

Objective

To determine the duration and age at the beginning of each stage corresponding to the circumpubertal period in the Middle Phalanx Maturation method (MPM) and to assess the differences between males and females.

Materials and Methods

Sets of X‐rays of the middle phalanx of the third finger taken at 6‐month intervals were analysed for 246 skeletal Class I subjects (102 females and 144 males) between 9 and 15 years of age. After staging, the duration of each stage was derived from chronological ages, and the difference between males and females for both duration and age at the beginning of each stage was investigated.

Results

The median duration for MPS2 and MPS3 was 1 year for both sexes, while MPS4 showed a median duration of 1 year in females and 9 months in males, with no significant differences between the sexes. Mean age at the beginning of MPS2 was 10y11m for females and 11y11m for males; for MPS3, it was 11y8m for females and 13y1m for males; for MPS4, it was 12y9m for females and 13y11m for males; for MPS5, it was 13y4m for females and 14y3m for males. The differences between the sexes were statistically significant for all the stages (P < .001).

Conclusions

This study confirms, with relevant sample size, the median duration of 1 year for each MPM stage from MPS2 to MPS4. Despite the distinctive interindividual variability, the interquartile range is 6 months or less for all but one interval, confirming the soundness of the results.
Predicting and controlling ecological communities via trait and environment mediated parameterizations of dynamical models
Authors: Blonder Benjamin Wong , Gaüzère Pierre , Iversen Lars L. , Ke Po‐Ju , Petry William K. , Ray Courtenay A. , Salguero‐Gómez Roberto , Sharpless William , Violle Cyrille
Published: March 2023

Predicting or controlling the state of an ecological community is a core global change challenge. Dynamical models provide one toolkit, but parameterizing these models can be challenging, and interpretation can be difficult. We here propose rewriting dynamical model parameters in terms of more interpretable and measurable functional traits and environmental variables (trait and environment mediated parameterizations; TEMPs). For prediction, this approach could help make interpretable forecasts of equilibrium community dynamics (species coexistence), invasibility surfaces (dynamics due to biotic context), and responses to environmental change (dynamics due to abiotic context). For control, this approach could help identify policies that yield desired species and trait compositions through perturbations of the abundance of species with certain traits, or of the environment.
Root functional traits determine the magnitude of the rhizosphere priming effect among eight tree species
Authors: Chao Lin , Liu Yanyan , Zhang Weidong , Wang Qingkui , Guan Xin , Yang Qingpeng , Chen Longchi , Zhang Jianbing , Hu Baoqing , Liu Zhanfeng , Wang Silong , Freschet Grégoire T.
Published: March 2023

Living roots and their rhizodeposits can accelerate or decelerate the decomposition of soil organic matter which refers to the rhizosphere priming effect (RPE). However, whereas plant traits are thought to be key factors controlling the RPE, little is known about how root traits representative of plant biomass allocation, morphology, architecture, or physiology influence the magnitude of the RPE. Using a natural abundance 13C tracer method allowing partitioning of native soil organic carbon (SOC) decomposition and plant rhizosphere respiration, we studied here the effects of eight C3 tree species featuring contrasting functional traits on C4 soil respiration over a 204‐day period in a microcosm experiment. All tree species enhanced the rate of SOC decomposition, by 82% on average, but the strength of the rhizosphere priming significantly differed among species. Mean diameter of first‐order roots and root exudate‐derived respiration were positively correlated with the RPE, together explaining a large part of observed variation in the RPE (R2 = 0.72), whereas root branching density was negatively associated with the RPE. Path analyses further suggested that mean diameter of first‐order roots was the main driver of the RPE owing to its positive direct effect on the RPE and its indirect effects via root exudate‐derived respiration and root branching density. Our study demonstrates that the magnitude of the RPE is regulated by complementary aspects of root morphology, architecture and physiology, implying that comprehensive approaches are needed to reveal the multiple mechanisms driving plant effects on the RPE. Overall, our results emphasize the relevance of integrating root traits in biogeochemical cycling models to improve model performance for predicting soil C dynamics.
Digital mental health outcome monitoring for a structured text‐based youth counselling intervention: Demographic profile and outcome change
Authors: Blackshaw Emily , Sefi Aaron , Mindel Charlotte , Maher Harry , De Ossorno Garcia Santiago
Published: March 2023

Background

Digital mental health interventions comprise a potentially effective and accessible form of support for young people, particularly at times when traditional face‐to‐face service delivery is reduced, as in the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Aims

This study assessed the demographic profile of young people using a digital mental health support service and evaluated outcome change over the course of a structured online counselling intervention (synchronous text‐chat sessions with a practitioner).

Materials and Methods

The data were collected from 23,260 young people aged between 10 and 25 years engaging with the intervention between April 2019 and June 2021.

Results

Young people accessing these services had high levels of mental health needs, particularly those identifying with non‐binary gender identity. Service users were mostly female, with equitable rates of access for young people from racialised communities. Overall outcome change demonstrated small effect sizes according to the YP‐CORE (0.19) and CORE‐10 (0.38), which increased to a moderate level when young people remained engaged with a dedicated practitioner for at least seven sessions (0.38, 0.58). Regression analysis illustrated the effect of the number of sessions on outcome change, but this can be also influenced by other variables such as age and gender.

Discussion and Conclusion

Further research is required to explore ways to engage with young people using digital web‐based services for a longer period and to collect and analyse single‐session outcome data.
Complications and treatment errors involving periodontal tissues related to orthodontic therapy
Authors: Jepsen Karin , Sculean Anton , Jepsen Søren
Published: March 2023

In this review, typical clinical complications involving periodontal tissues are illustrated that can be encountered in conjunction with orthodontic therapy (OT). Special considerations are given for various clinical scenarios, such as the patient presenting in periodontal health, with periodontitis, or with mucogingival conditions. While some of the complications are seen as common side effects of OT, other, more severe, problems that could have been avoided may be viewed as treatment errors. Recommendations are made on how to prevent these complications, based on the currently available evidence, on clinical practice guidelines, and on expert opinion. In conclusion, while there are several areas in which OT can have unwanted adverse effects on periodontal/mucogingival conditions, there is also great potential for synergies, offering opportunities for close cooperation between the two specialties (periodontics and orthodontics) for the benefit of patients affected by tooth malpositioning and/or periodontal or mucogingival problems.
Concept or Context? The Exchanges between Ross and Kelsen on Valid Law and Efficacy
Authors: Eng Svein
Published: March 2023

The aim of this paper is to point out the salient patterns of agreement and dis‐ agreement between Alf Ross and Hans Kelsen's analyses of valid law and efficacy. I argue that the disagreement has the character of systemic postulation on the part of both interlocutors. My main thesis is that the disagreement is not one of philosophical principle, but one that must be resolved on the basis of pragmatic considerations, i.e., the choice between the two valid‐law schemes pertains neither to necessity nor to truth, but to expediency and values.
Global DNA methylation, DNA methyltransferase and stress‐related gene expression in ovine oocytes and embryos after exposure to metabolic stressors
Authors: Nandi Sumanta , Tripathi Shiv K. , Singh Poonam K. , Gupta Paluru S. P. , Mondal Sukanta
Published: March 2023

DNA methylation, considered the most prominent epigenetic mark was important for the gene regulation in embryonic development. The present study aimed at evaluating the effects of metabolic stressors [Non‐esterified fatty acid (NEFA), β‐hydroxy‐butyric acid (BHB), ammonia and urea] exposure during the in vitro ovine oocyte maturation, global DNA methylation, DNA methyltransferase and stress‐related gene expression. Colorimetric analysis of global DNA methylation and the expression of the DNA methyltransferase genes (DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B) were assessed in the matured oocytes, 2‐cell embryos and blastocysts produced in vitro from oocytes exposed with the metabolic stressors during 24 h of the in vitro maturation (IVM). Further, the mRNA expression of the stress‐related genes (SOD1, SOD2) in the matured oocytes, 2‐cell embryos and blastocysts produced was assessed. Significant difference in global DNA methylation levels between all the treatments tested was observed when compared with control in oocytes, two‐cell embryos and blastocysts. Elevated concentration of metabolic stressors resulted in increased expressions of several stress‐related genes, i.e., SOD1, SOD2 and in mRNA expression of DNA methyltransferase genes. The present study is the first to report that the DNA methylation was sensitive to the effects of the metabolic stressors in ovine oocytes/embryos. The aberrant expressions of genes during oocyte development targeted in the present study can provide evidence for the early embryo developmental arrest and blastocysts quality. These results highlighted the sensitivity of the early embryogenesis and more precisely of the reprogramming period to metabolites challenges, in a realistic situation of elevated concentration of metabolic stressors.
Capital controls as a bargaining device: The case of Iceland
Authors: Baldursson Fridrik Mar , Portes Richard , Thorlaksson Eirikur Elis
Published: March 2023

Iceland imposed strict capital controls when its banks failed in October 2008. Legacy problems and a large stock of carry‐trade funds locked in by the controls hindered lifting them, but they also helped in resolving the banks. We formulate and calibrate a bargaining model describing the strategic interaction between Iceland and international investors. Outcomes indicate a judicious bargaining approach by Icelandic authorities which was ultimately successful and led to resolution by settlement. The results are robust to reasonable variations in parameter values and are consistent with outcomes in investment arbitration trials and anecdotal evidence from Icelandic case law.
Advances in understanding the role of dendritic cells in aplastic anaemia
Authors: Gao Mingjie , Zhang Denglu , Xu Ruirong
Published: March 2023

Aplastic anaemia (AA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by haematopoietic failure in the bone marrow. Abnormal activation and hyperfunction of T lymphocytes are believed to cause bone marrow damage, which plays a major role in AA pathogenesis. Dendritic cells (DCs) play a vital role in the immune system by processing antigens for presentation to T cells and regulating their differentiation and function. DC dysfunction may cause abnormal T‐cell activation. Recent studies have associated the occurrence and development of AA with DC function. In this review, we have discussed the role of DCs in AA pathogenesis and their potential as putative therapeutic targets for AA.
“Nature and Society Give Women a Great Habit of Suffering”: Germaine de Staël's Feminism and Its Challenges
Authors: Sabourin Charlotte
Published: March 2023

Germaine de Staël (1766–1817), despite having published a considerable body of work, is seldom regarded as a feminist philosopher. Unlike, for instance, Mary Wollstonecraft of the same period, Staël is not directly arguing for the equality of the sexes. She even, at times, makes surprisingly derogatory remarks about women's nature. I argue that she is nevertheless putting forward a brand of difference feminism, which deserves our attention as a contribution to feminist reflections on gender norms in the early modern era. Staël's contribution takes the form of a plea for the improvement of women's lives that engages with the combined action of nature and society. I clarify the meaning that we should ascribe to Staël's frequent appeals to nature and argue that, for her, society and education should be used to correct (alleged) natural weaknesses instead of reinforcing them. I also give an overview of Staël's political proposals toward the improvement of women's lives, which call for a better form of political regime than the one she lived in, as well as a better access to education and a more egalitarian conception of marriage.
Unmasking a silent killer: Prevalence of diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes mellitus among people living with HIV in rural South Africa
Authors: de Vries Annemiek E. M. , Xaba Zanele , Moraba Sehulong R. , Goerlitz Luise , Tempelman Hugo A. , Klipstein‐Grobusch Kerstin , Hermans Lucas E. , Scheuermaier Karine , Devillé Walter L. J. M. , Vos Alinda G.
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To document the prevalence of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and undiagnosed diabetes mellitus (DM) and to identify factors associated with undiagnosed DM in people living with HIV (PLWH).

Methods

Cross‐sectional study performed at Ndlovu Medical Center, Limpopo, South Africa including PLWH aged ≥18 years. Between August and November 2017, 356 HIV‐positive participants were included. Information was collected on socio‐demographics, DM symptoms and risk factors for DM. IGT and DM were diagnosed using random plasma glucose and/or HbA1c. Factors associated with undiagnosed DM were assessed by comparing participants with newly diagnosed DM to participants without DM.

Results

IGT was diagnosed in 172 (48.3%) participants. Twenty‐nine (8.1%) participants met the definition of DM, of whom 17 (58.6%) were newly diagnosed. Compared to participants without DM, participants with DM were on average 5 years older, were more likely to have a positive family history for DM, were less physically active and had higher systolic blood pressure, body mass index and waist circumference. Factors associated with undiagnosed DM included age ≥45 years (odds ratio [OR] = 3.59) and physical inactivity (OR = 3.17).

Conclusions

The prevalence of IGT and DM among PLWH is high and more than half of DM cases were undiagnosed. Regular screening for DM in PLWH is recommended, especially in an ageing population with additional cardiovascular disease risk factors.
PpHY5 is involved in anthocyanin coloration in the peach flesh surrounding the stone
Authors: Zhao Lei , Zhang Yuanqiang , Sun Juanli , Yang Qiurui , Cai Yaming , Zhao Caiping , Wang Furong , He Huaping , Han Yuepeng
Published: March 2023

Red coloration around the stone (Cs) is an important trait of canned peaches (Prunus persica). In this study, an elongated hypocotyl 5 gene in peach termed PpHY5 was identified to participate in the regulation of the Cs trait. The E3 ubiquitin ligase PpCOP1 was expressed in the flesh around the stone and could interact with PpHY5. Although HY5 is known to be degraded by COP1 in darkness, the PpHY5 gene was activated in the flesh tissue surrounding the stone at the ripening stages and its expression was consistent with anthocyanin accumulation. PpHY5 was able to promote the transcription of PpMYB10.1 through interacting with its partner PpBBX10. Silencing of PpHY5 in the flesh around the stone caused a reduction in anthocyanin pigmentation, while transient overexpression of PpHY5 and PpBBX10 resulted in anthocyanin accumulation in peach fruits. Moreover, transgenic Arabidopsis seedlings overexpressing PpHY5 showed increased anthocyanin accumulation in leaves. Our results improve our understanding of the mechanisms of anthocyanin coloration in plants.
Paraconiothyrium cyclothyrioides, a novel cutaneous fungal pathogen in a dog and a cat
Authors: Faccin Mayane , Rodrigues Hoffmann Aline
Published: March 2023

A dog and a cat presented with pyogranulomatous mycotic pododermatitis. Panfungal PCR and next‐generation sequencing identified Paraconiothyrium cyclothyrioides with 100% identity. Paraconiothyrium cyclothyrioides can rarely cause cutaneous infection and systemic disease in immunocompromised humans. This is the first report of infections in domestic animal species.