bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
True site fidelity in pollen‐feeding butterflies
Authors: Moura Priscila A. , Corso Giberto , Montgomery Stephen H. , Cardoso Marcio Z.
Published: November 2021

Site fidelity plays an important role in increasing foraging efficiency, particularly when food resources are reliable. In insects, site fidelity has largely been studied in Hymenopteran species, which consistently return to their nest site after foraging bouts.

In butterflies, evidence of foraging site fidelity is limited but may be present in species with specific foraging specialisations, such as Heliconius, which have a derived foraging behaviour centred around active pollen feeding. Unlike many Hymenoptera, Heliconius are neither eusocial nor nesting species, positioning them as a peculiar case where foraging site fidelity may occur in the absence of any central nest‐like structure. However, to date, existing studies do not consider low dispersal as an alternative to site fidelity.

In this study, we use a mark–release–recapture experiment to test whether individuals of two Heliconius species exhibit true site fidelity. We further test this fidelity by measuring flight orientation during a translocation experiment, and by recapturing translocated butterflies to identify whether individuals return to their site of origin.

We found that non‐translocated butterflies display extreme stability in site choice, and translocated butterflies consistently return to their site of origin, rapidly orientating towards their home site upon release. This suggests site fidelity in Heliconius is not solely explained by low dispersal, but is a response to the distribution and stability in ecological resources.

We further note that the ability to return to home sites when artificially dispersed suggests a sophisticated ability to navigate to specific spatial goals. Our study provides insights into the ecological drivers of site fidelity, a novel example distinct from nest building or group living, and opens an avenue of new research on navigational mechanisms in insects.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Carbon sequestration potential in the rehabilitated mangroves in Indonesia
Authors: Kusumaningtyas Mariska Astrid , Kepel Terry L. , Solihuddin Tubagus , Lubis Ali Arman , Putra Aditya Dwi P. , Sugiharto Untung , Ati Restu N. A. , Salim Hadiwijaya L. , Mustikasari Eva , Heriati Aida , Daulat August , Sudirman Nasir , Suryono Devi D. , Rustam Agustin
Published: November 2021

Mangrove ecosystem provides important services for coastal communities. Unfortunately, this ecosystem has undergone physical pressures for decades, including land conversion for shrimp aquaculture. Rehabilitation of the degraded mangroves offers an effective solution for bringing back mangrove functions, including carbon sequestration capacity. This study aims to quantify carbon stock (CS) and sequestration rate of a rehabilitated mangrove ecosystem in Indonesia, particularly in Banten Province. We compared sediment CS and carbon accumulation rate (CAR) of a rehabilitated mangrove in Ciseukeut, Panimbang, with a natural mangrove in Cilintang, the Ujung Kulon National Park. The sediment CS to a depth of 1 m in a rehabilitated mangrove in Ciseukeut was higher than in a natural mangrove in Cilintang, constituting 364 Mg C ha−1 and 126 Mg C ha−1, respectively. However, CAR showed the opposite pattern, in which a natural mangrove showed an almost two‐fold higher rate (0.50 ± 0.42 Mg C ha−1 year−1) than that of a rehabilitated mangrove (0.27 ± 0.20 Mg C ha−1 year−1). Local hydrogeomorphological conditions play a role in affecting sediment CS and CAR in both sites. Enhancing hydrological modification can promote CAR, especially in an abandoned pond like in Ciseukeut. This study provided a knowledge base for suitable mangrove rehabilitation in the future that supports the Indonesian government's commitment to rehabilitating ca. 600,000 ha of degraded mangroves in Indonesia. Furthermore, the study also provides the first investigation of potential blue carbon for the world's natural heritage of the Ujung Kulon National Park.
Administrative Burden Symposium: Introduction – Are we ‘administering inequality’ through our welfare systems?
Authors: Carey Gemma , Moynihan Donald , Cook Kay , Malbon Eleanor
Published: November 2021

Over the past three decades social inequality has risen in almost all OECD countries, reaching historical highs. Social inequality is created and maintained not just by the specific focus or goals of particular policies, but by the norms, values and processes of our government institutions. This special issue looks at how administrative burden is constructed in a range of Australian social policy areas.
Reflecting on AJPA, 2015–2021: Revisiting the relationship between policy academics and public servants—Distances from learning
Authors: Sullivan Helen
Published: November 2021

This short essay reflects on the evolution of the journal and the environment it operated in over the last 7 years and volumes. It is anchored to the introductory article in the first issue of the journal under the new editorial team, ‘Learning from a Distance’ (2015) authored by Brian Head, which addressed a perennial question in public administration – the nature of the relationship between policy academics and public servants and considers whether and how that relationship has changed and why. It assesses the impact of Head's prescient advice to focus on building opportunities for learning between policy academics and public servants, paying particular attention to the role of intermediaries, and explores the range of ways in which policy academics and public servants are now engaged in learning, albeit from different distances. It considers the changes to the global and local contexts since 2015 and identifies the challenges ahead for the policy academic/public servant relationship in Australia.
Efobi v Royal Mail Group: Much Ado About Nothing?
Authors: Letwin Jeremy , Rendall‐Neal Josephine
Published: November 2021

Following the Supreme Court's recent decision in Efobi v Royal Mail Group, claimants in employment tribunals must first prove a prima facie case of discrimination before the burden of proof falls on the respondent to provide a non‐discriminatory explanation for the impugned conduct. The two stages are separate. Tribunals cannot draw any inferences from a respondent's explanation (or lack of explanation) when deciding whether there is a prima facie case of discrimination. We argue that, in reaching this decision, the Supreme Court failed to tackle squarely the important normative question at the heart of the dispute: whether there should be constraints on the evidence courts may consider when adjudicating whether there is a prima facie case of discrimination. Had the Supreme Court confronted this normative question, the outcome of the case might have been different.
Public Firm Presence, Financial Reporting, and the Decline of U.S. Manufacturing
Authors: GLAESER STEPHEN , OMARTIAN JAMES D.
Published: November 2021

We examine the relation between public firm presence and import competition. The information created by public firm presence may provide importers with insights they can use for competing with domestic firms. Consistent with this possibility, we document a positive relation between public firm presence and import competition. We find similar results when using differences in the expected costs of the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act as a source of plausibly exogenous variation in public firm presence after the act. We use differences in the proportion of German firms reporting publicly around a major enforcement reform as a natural mechanism experiment, and find evidence that financial reporting is a channel through which public firm presence relates to import competition. Additional mechanism tests and a falsification test estimated in the United Kingdom, where public and most private firms report publicly, further support this inference. In total, our evidence is consistent with foreign competitors using the information created by public firm presence, including what public firms disclose in financial reports, to compete with domestic firms. Consequently, our results provide evidence of competitors using the proprietary information disclosed in financial reports to compete with the disclosing firms and of information frictions affecting trade.
Impacts of cooperative membership on banana yield and risk exposure: Insights from China
Authors: Ma Wanglin , Zheng Hongyun , Yuan Peng
Published: November 2021

The yield‐increasing effects of agricultural cooperative membership have been widely examined in the literature. However, so far, little is known about whether cooperative membership has the potential to reduce farmers’ exposure to production risk. We address this gap by estimating the impacts of cooperative membership on expected yield, yield variance (variability), and yield skewness (exposure to downside risk), using data collected from a survey of 626 banana farmers in China. We employ an endogenous switching regression model to address the selectivity bias issue. The empirical results show that cooperative membership increases banana yield by 3% and reduces the variance and downside risk exposure by 60% and 114%, respectively. The results are supported by robustness check estimates, using propensity score matching and inverse probability weighted regression adjustment models. Additional analysis reveals that the treatment effects of cooperative membership vary among members with different household and farm characteristics. Our findings suggest that agricultural cooperatives can be an effective institutional arrangement for reducing production risk and crop failure and point to the need for policies and programmes in developing cooperatives and increasing membership involvements of smallholder farmers.
Crustal Electrical Structure and Deep Metallogenic Potential in Northern Wuyi Area (South China), based on Magnetotelluric Data
Authors: LUO Fan , LÜ Qingtian , ZHANG Kun , YAN Jiayong , FARQUHARSON Colin G. , ZHANG Chong , FU Guangming
Published: November 2021

The northern Wuyi area, which is located in the northern Wuyi metallogenic belt, has superior mineralization conditions. The Pingxiang–Guangfeng–Jiangshan–Shaoxing fault (PSF) extends across the whole region regardless of whether or how the PSF relates to the near‐surface mineralization. We carried out an MT survey in the region and obtained a reliable 2D model of the crustal electrical structure to a depth of 30 km. In the resistivity model, we inferred that a continuous high conductivity belt that ranges from the shallow to deep crust is a part of the PSF. Then, we estimated the fluid content and pressure gradient to identify the deep sources of fluid as well as its pattern of motion pattern. Finally, we proposed a model for the deep metallogenic migration processes that combines geological data, fluid content data, pressure gradient data, and the subsurface resistivity model. The model analysis showed that the Jiangnan orogenic belt and the Cathaysia block formed the PSF during the process of com. The deep fluid migrated upward through the PSF to the shallow crust. Therefore, we believe that the PSF is an ore‐forming fluid migration channel and that it laid the material basis for large‐scale mineralization in the shallow crust.
Characteristics of monosodium urate crystal deposition in the foot in the different stages of gout by dual‐energy computed tomography
Authors: Zhang Yan , Di Aihui , Yuan Huishu
Published: November 2021

Objective

To compare the characteristics of monosodium urate (MSU) crystal deposition at specific anatomical sites of the foot detected by dual‐energy computed tomography in patients with different stages of gout.

Materials and methods

This study included 101 patients with gout, 64 had early gout (<3 years) and 37 had late gout (>3 years). We retrospectively compared the total volumes of MSU crystals, the detection rates, and the morphology of MSU crystals at specific anatomical sites in the foot of the patients with different gout durations.

Results

The total volume of MSU crystals in patients with early gout was significantly smaller than that in patients with late gout (P < 0.05). The detection rates and morphology of MSU crystals in the anterior calf tendons, ankle joints, tarsometatarsal joints, and metatarsophalangeal joints differed significantly between the patients with early and late gout (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the detection rates of submillimeter MSU crystals at the other specific anatomical sites, except for the tendons of the anterior calf, the ankle joint, and the metatarsal joint (P > 0.05). The submillimeter MSU crystal deposition was most common in the tendons of the posterior calf, the proportions in patients with early gout and late gout were 85.9% and 70.3%. Only submillimeter deposition existed in 52 patients (81.3%) with early gout and 11 patients (29.7%) with late gout at all sites of the foot.

Conclusion

Dual‐energy computed tomography detection of submillimeter MSU crystal deposits in the foot is of great significance for the diagnosis of gout, especially along tendons.
A whole‐ecosystem method for experimentally suppressing ants on a small scale
Authors: Hood Amelia S. C. , Aryawan Anak Agung Ketut , Advento Andreas D. , Suberkah Wahyu R. , Ashton‐Butt Adham , Ps Sudharto , Caliman Jean‐Pierre , Naim Mohammad , Foster William A. , Turner Edgar C.
Published: November 2021

Ant suppression experiments have emerged as a powerful method for assessing the role of ants in ecosystems. However, traditional methods have been limited to canopy ants, and not assessed the role of ants on and below ground. Recent advances have enabled whole‐ecosystem ant suppression in large plots, but large‐scale experiments are not always feasible. Here, we develop a small‐scale, whole‐ecosystem suppression method. We compare techniques for monitoring suppression experiments, and assess whether habitat complexity in oil palm influences our method's effectiveness.

We conducted ant suppression experiments in oil palm agroforestry in Sumatra, Indonesia. We used targeted poison baits, a physical barrier and canopy isolation to suppress ants in 4 m radius arenas around single palms. We sequentially tested three suppression methods that increased in intensity over 18 months. We sampled ant abundance before and after suppression by fogging, using pitfall traps and extracting soil monoliths. We also monitored ants throughout the experiment by baiting. We tested the soil for residual poison and monitored other invertebrates (Araneae, Coleoptera, Orthoptera and Chilopoda) to test for cross‐contamination. Plots were established under four oil palm management treatments that varied in their habitat complexity: reduced, intermediate and high understorey complexity treatments in mature plantation, and a recently replanted plantation.

Post‐treatment ant abundance was 92% lower in suppression than control plots. Only the most intensive suppression method, which ran for the final 9 months, worked. Baiting rarely reflected the other monitoring methods. The treatment negatively affected Orthoptera, but not other taxa. There was no residual poison in the soil. Coleoptera abundance increased in suppression plots post‐treatment, potentially due to reduced competition with ants. Our findings were consistent across management treatments.

We developed a whole‐ecosystem method for suppressing ants on a small scale in oil palm plantations. Our method represents a significant advance; previous reductions in ant abundance have not exceeded 38%. We provide the first example of ants being experimentally suppressed belowground. Baiting alone is not adequate for assessing suppression effectiveness, and testing a range of taxa for confounding impacts is important. Our study can act as a blueprint for developing suppression methods for other taxa, which offer unique insights into community ecology.
Assessing the efficacy of higher‐taxon approach for ant species surveys to improve biodiversity inventories
Authors: Souza Jorge Luiz Pereira , Fernandes Itanna Oliveira , Agosti Donat , Johnson Norman F. , Baccaro Fabrício Beggiato
Published: November 2021

Understanding the distribution of species is essential for the conservation and management of biodiversity. But the availability of this kind of information is still scarce for the most diverse regions. The higher‐taxon approach (i.e. use of coarser taxonomic levels to represent species) as an easier and efficient method in representing species patterns can be one way to overcome these constraints. However, there is a general lack of information about the taxonomic stability of surrogate taxa across space and time. We investigated the predictive power and stability of taxonomic identification at the genus level as a predictor of ant species (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) distribution throughout ~1000 km along the Amazon Basin, using taxonomy over the past 120 years. Using intervals of 10 years, from 1900 to 2020 we generated a genus and species matrix based on actual data from our sampling sites for each decade over a total of 120 years. We tested the predictive power of genera as a surrogate of species for approximating species‐level richness, composition and distribution‐based measures along topographic gradients at local (within site) and regional (between sites) scales. We detected a strong correlation between genera and ant species richness in the current database. There was also high congruence between genera and ant species composition over the time period studied. Genera were also efficient at detecting patterns of species distribution along topographic gradients. Despite changes in ant taxonomy over the past 120 years, our data indicate that such revisions did not affect the ability of ant genera to predict general patterns of ant species in our study area within the Amazon Basin. This reinforces the potential of genera to serve as surrogates for ant species elsewhere, which may significantly decrease the cost of surveying ants in environmental monitoring programs because of the time saved from identifying collected specimens to genus rather than species level.
Spermatogenesis in a vulnerable South American cervid, dwarf red brocket (Mazama rufina)
Authors: Diaz Eduardo A. , Donoso Gustavo , Saenz Carolina , Aponte Pedro M.
Published: November 2021

The brocket deer (Genus Mazama) is a highly diverse cervid group distributed from Mexico to Argentina, with a downward population trend. However, literature on the basic reproductive biology of the genus is scarce. This work aimed to study biometric, histological and stereological aspects of the testes of Dwarf Red Brocket (Mazama rufina). Testes from free‐ranging adult brockets (n = 3) were retrieved from necropsies. Testes were histologically processed. From histological images, several stereological parameters were estimated, and seminiferous epithelium cycle morphology was described. Testes volumes were between 8.2 and 18.4 ml and weights from 8.3 to 19.4 g. Gonadosomatic index (% paired‐testes weight to body weight) went from 0.17 to 0.64. The tubular cross‐sectional diameter was 179.8 ± 2.8 µm. Estimated volume densities for parenchyma and interstitium were 78.8% and 21.2% respectively. There were (in millions/ml) 96.0 ± 13.1 germ cells and 37.7 ± 6.0 somatic cells. Specific cell densities were (all expressed in millions/ml) as follows: spermatogonia 13.1 ± 4.2; primary spermatocytes 43.1 ± 5.0; round spermatids 36.8 ± 8.0 (lower density near the caudal pole, p < 0.01); sustentacular (Sertoli) cells 16.8 ± 4.1 and interstitial endocrine (Leydig) cells 17.4 ± 3.4. Sertoli cell index (germ cells per Sertoli cell) was 6.72. Eight stages of the cycle were described, and frequencies estimated, resembling those of goats. M. rufina adult testis anatomy is similar to that of other cervids and domestic ruminants, with an apparently lower spermatogenic efficiency. This work is a first approximation to the physiology of the testis of M. rufina. Basic knowledge of the reproductive physiology of vulnerable species may allow biotechnological approaches for the restitution of animal populations.
Compassion and person‐centred care: Survey development for aged care workers
Authors: Gordon Susan , Burns Rebecca , Champion Stephanie , Niutta Liana , Bennett Paul
Published: November 2021

Objective

With a growing emphasis on personalised care, there is a need for effective workforce training to enable person‐centred care (PCC) in aged care practice. The Australian aged care workforce is very diverse; thus, tools to evaluate compassion and PCC training need to reflect an understanding of these concepts relevant to the Australian context. There are currently no tools validated for use in aged care settings in Australia.

Methods

Two existing compassion and PCC questionnaires were modified for an Australian audience using cognitive interviews with aged care workers. The reliability of the modified questionnaires was assessed.

Results

The modified questionnaires were found to have acceptable inter‐reliability and test‐retest intra‐class correlation for the subscales and overall. However, the investigation also found low Cohen's kappa values between the test and retest responses for the individual items, subscales and overall, and had low inter‐class correlation for individual items, indicating poor inter‐rater agreement. High inter‐item correlation scores also suggest the questions encapsulate overly similar constructs.

Conclusions

While further investigation of the psychometric properties of the new items is needed, these modified questionnaires may offer a method of assessing and re‐assessing compassion and PCC using language that is understandable to the Australian aged care workforce. Tools to accurately measure Australian aged care staff perceptions of compassion and their ability to deliver PCC are important to improve the quality of care provided in aged care and facilitate the delivery of PCC in aged care settings.
Advocating the rights of people with dementia to contribute to research: Considerations for researchers and ethics committees
Authors: O’Connor Claire M. C. , Liddle Jacki , O’Reilly Maria , Meyer Claudia , Cartwright Jade , Chisholm Marita , Conway Erin , Fielding Elaine , Fox Amanda , MacAndrew Margaret , Schnitker Linda , Travers Catherine , Watson Karen , While Christine , Bail Kasia
Published: November 2021

Objective

Research involving people with dementia is vital to appropriately inform policy and practice decisions affecting this population. As dementia‐care researchers, we frequently advocate to Human Research Ethics Committees for the right of people with dementia to choose whether to participate in research. This brief report provides some considerations for researchers and ethics committees.

Method

Descriptive summary of principles that argue for inclusion of people with dementia in research studies.

Results

Specifically excluding people living with dementia from research because of perceived cognitive impairment is inappropriate in light of human rights principles and the right to contribute to evidence‐based care.

Conclusions

There is a difference between capacity to provide informed consent and ability to provide perspectives that are valid for each individual. Providing the opportunity for a person with dementia to participate in research and offering support to do this is a matter of human rights.
Loss of adipose tissue or skeletal muscle during first‐line gemcitabine/nab‐paclitaxel therapy is associated with worse survival after second‐line therapy of advanced pancreatic cancer
Authors: Miki Masami , Lee Lingaku , Hisano Terumasa , Sugimoto Rie , Furukawa Masayuki
Published: November 2021

Aim

Progression of cachexia indicated by decreased body weight and composition is associated with poor survival of advanced pancreatic cancer (APC). There are limited data concerning the prognostic effect of cachexia on second‐line chemotherapy (L2). We aimed to assess the impact of cachexia progression during first‐line therapy (L1) on survival after L2.

Methods

We reviewed patients with gemcitabine/nab‐paclitaxel (GEM/nabPTX)‐refractory APC who underwent L2 with modified FOLFIRINOX or S‐1 between 2015 and 2019 in our institution. We determined clinicopathological data including body composition parameters: subcutaneous fat area (SFA), visceral fat area (VFA), and skeletal muscle index (SMI). Correlations of changes in these parameters, as well as their effect on overall survival after L2 (OS2), were examined.

Results

Median rates of change in SMI, SFA, and VFA were 0.19%, −4.17%, and −18.39%, respectively, in 59 patients during L1. Although there was moderate correlation in rate of change between SFA and VFA, there was no correlation between SMI and other parameters. We defined loss of SFA, VFA, and SMI as decreases greater than 8.5%, 34.1%, and 8.7%, respectively. Median OS2 of patients with loss in any of these parameters was significantly shorter than in patients without loss (3.83 vs. 8.73 months). Multivariate analysis revealed that loss in any parameters, performance status, and C‐reactive protein/albumin ratio were independent negative prognostic factors.

Conclusion

Loss of adipose tissue or skeletal muscle during L1 had a considerable impact on OS2 in APC refractory to GEM/nabPTX.
Clinical application of preserving spontaneous breathing non‐intubation anesthesia in thoracoscopic surgery for lung cancer under ERAS concept
Authors: Qi Longzhou , Chen Ke , Luo Bin , Mao Guocai , Pan Liangbin , Huang Haitao , Li Jian , Chen Shaomu
Published: November 2021

Objective

To explore the safety and feasibility of thoracoscopic surgery in patients with lung cancer under non‐intubation anesthesia, and to evaluate the advantages of the non‐intubation anesthesia compared with intubation anesthesia on enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted in which 100 patients who underwent thoracoscopic lung cancer surgery from January 2020 to February 2021 in the Department of Thoracic Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University were included and divided into non‐intubation group (n = 50) and intubation group (n = 50). The primary outcome was the comparison of intra‐ and postoperative parameters. Secondary outcomes included inflammatory response indicators and intra‐ and postoperative complications.

Results

There was no significant difference between the two groups in anesthesia effect score, blood loss, lowest pulse oxygen saturation, operation time, postoperative chest tube indwelling time (P > 0.05). Non‐intubation group had less intraoperative remifentanil dosage, less change of blood pressure and heart rate, lower postoperative pain numerical score(NRS), less medical costs, smaller incidence rate of throat discomfort (P < 0.05). The non‐intubation group was also associated with less extubation time, postanesthesia care unit recovery time, ambulation time, food intake time, postoperative antibiotic use time, and hospital stay (P < 0.05). The increase of C‐reactive protein in the non‐intubation group was lower than that in the intubation group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Non‐intubation anesthesia for thoracoscopic lung cancer surgery is safe and feasible. Compared with the intubation anesthesia, it has advantages in ERAS and reducing medical costs.
Media Coverage and Cash Holding Adjustment*
Authors: Cho Hyungjin , Cho Meeok , Kim Sehee
Published: November 2021

This paper investigates how companies adjust their cash holdings in response to media coverage. We find that firms with more media coverage and more negative tone of media coverage move the level of cash holdings faster toward the target level. More importantly, the association between media attention and cash holding adjustment speed is weaker for firms affiliated with business groups, indicating that close relationship between media and business groups impairs the monitoring role of media. These findings support the monitoring role of media in improving the efficiency in cash management.
Splenic auto‐transplantation after splenectomy for trauma: evaluation of a new technique
Authors: Badawy Amr , Bessa Samer S. , Hussein Alaa , Wael Mohamed , El‐Sayes Islam A.
Published: November 2021

Background

Splenic autotransplantation is a promising method to recover splenic functions after traumatic splenectomy. However, it is associated with several postoperative complications, such as subphrenic abscess, intestinal obstruction and torsion of the omentum with necrosis of the implanted splenic tissues. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate a new splenic autotransplantation technique that could overcome those complications.

Materials and methods

A single segment of the spleen was implanted inside a pedunculated omental pouch and fixed in the native site of the spleen in 15 patients who underwent splenectomy for abdominal trauma. This group of patients was compared with the next 17 patients who underwent splenectomy alone. Additionally, splenic functions of the patient and control groups were evaluated 3 months using peripheral blood smear [the presence of Howell–Jolly (HJ) bodies] and abdominal contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CECT).

Results

All patients who underwent splenic autotransplantation showed evidence of a well‐vascularised splenic tissue on CECT and normal peripheral blood smear without HJ bodies 3 months postoperatively. No postoperative complications related to splenic autotransplantation were observed, and platelet count after 3 months was significantly higher in patients who underwent splenectomy only (p = 0.04).

Conclusions

Splenic autotransplantation using the aforementioned technique could restore splenic functions with minimum postoperative complications related to the procedure.
Evaluating comforting messages with the sentiment analysis and social cognition engine
Authors: Szkody Erica , McKinney Cliff
Published: November 2021

The current study extended the literature on social support by examining the differences in the word content of supportive messages using a free online linguistic tool called sentiment analysis and social cognition engine (SEANCE) across multiple levels. Participants created supportive messages in response to vignettes of distressed individuals, which were evaluated with SEANCE for word content and coded by researchers for person‐centeredness. Word content was significantly different by level of person‐centeredness, biological sex of support provider, and the recipient of support. The results suggest that tools such as SEANCE may help to identify levels of person‐centeredness beyond that of a trained coder and that future research should examine the individual differences of support provider and recipient when evaluating message content.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: environmental and dietary differences of inflammatory bowel disease in Eastern and Western populations
Authors: Zhao Min , Feng Rui , Ben‐Horin Shomron , Zhuang Xiaojun , Tian Zhenyi , Li Xiaozhi , Ma Ruiqi , Mao Ren , Qiu Yun , Chen Minhu
Published: November 2021

Background

While the incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has stabilised in the West, it is still increasing in several newly industrialised countries.

Aims

To investigate whether the environmental and dietary risk factors for IBD differ between Eastern and Western populations

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for studies published from inception through June 30, 2020. Data were pooled using a random effects model.

Results

Overall, 255 studies were assessed. We identified 25 risk factors for IBD, seven of which were noted in both Eastern and Western populations: family history of Crohn's disease [CD] or ulcerative colitis [UC], former smoking (CD/UC), smoking (CD), appendicectomy (CD), tonsillectomy (CD), meat and meat products (CD), and vitamin D deficiency (UC). The remaining factors, including urban living, current smoking, antibiotics, oral contraceptives, caesarean section, isotretinoin, total energy, fat, cholesterol, fatty acids and their sub‐classifications, eggs, and soft drinks, were associated with an increased risk of IBD in Western or Eastern populations only. We identified 21 protective factors for IBD, among which eight were common in the East and West: farm animals (CD/UC), Helicobacter pylori infection (CD/UC), multiple births (CD), physical activity (CD), history of breastfeeding (CD), pets (UC), current smoking (UC), and coffee intake (UC). Ten factors conferred protection against IBD in Western populations only, whereas eight factors conferred protection against IBD in Eastern populations only.

Conclusions

Numerous environmental and dietary factors influenced the development of IBD in both Western and Eastern populations, whereas certain factors influenced IBD risk differently in these populations.
Systematic review: disease activity indices for immune checkpoint inhibitor‐associated enterocolitis
Authors: Ma Christopher , MacDonald John K. , Nguyen Tran M. , Chang Joshua , Vande Casteele Niels , Feagan Brian G. , Jairath Vipul
Published: November 2021

Background

Although there is interest in developing pharmacotherapies for the treatment of immune checkpoint inhibitor‐associated enterocolitis (ICIC), there is currently no consensus on how to optimally measure disease activity in this condition.

Aims

To identify all scoring indices used for the measurement of disease activity in ICIC, assess their operating properties, and explore their potential utility as outcome measures.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library from inception to November 2020 to identify studies that evaluated disease activity and severity in patients with ICI‐associated enterocolitis. These scoring tools could be designed specifically for ICIC or adapted from other diseases, and assessed clinical, endoscopic, or histologic disease activity.

Results

Sixty‐four studies were included. The Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events is commonly used to describe symptoms, although has only been partially validated and was not designed as a disease activity index. Endoscopic and histologic indices used in inflammatory bowel disease have been adopted for ICIC including the Mayo Endoscopic Subscore, Ulcerative Colitis Endoscopic Index of Severity, Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn's Disease, Nancy Histological Index, Robarts Histopathological Index, and Geboes Score, among others. None of these indices has been validated for use in ICIC, and all lacked content validity and responsiveness.

Conclusions

There are no validated clinical, endoscopic, or histologic outcomes to assess disease activity in ICIC. Development and validation of reliable and responsive outcome measures that can be used to measure disease activity will be paramount for both clinical practice and for the development of treatments.
Gene–gene interactions in the protein kinase C/endothelial nitric oxide synthase axis impact the hypotensive effects of propofol
Authors: Oliveira‐Paula Gustavo H. , Pereira Daniela A. , Pinheiro Lucas C. , Ferreira Graziele C. , Paula‐Garcia Waynice N. , Garcia Luis V. , Lacchini Riccardo , Luizon Marcelo R. , Tanus‐Santos Jose E.
Published: November 2021

Anaesthesia with propofol is frequently associated with hypotension, which is at least partially attributable to increased nitric oxide (NO) formation derived from the activation of protein kinase C (PKC)/endothelial NO synthase (NOS3) axis. In this cross‐sectional study, we tested whether PRKCA (which encodes PKCα) polymorphisms, or haplotypes, and interactions among PRKCA and NOS3 polymorphisms affect the hypotensive responses to propofol. We collected venous blood samples from 164 patients before and 10 min after propofol administration. Genotypes were determined by PCR and haplotype frequencies were estimated. Nitrite and NOx (nitrites+nitrates) levels were measured by using an ozone‐based chemiluminescence assay and the Griess reaction, respectively. We used multifactor dimensionality reduction to test interactions among PRKCA and NOS3 polymorphisms. Propofol promoted enhanced blood pressure‐lowering effects and increased nitrite levels in subjects carrying GA + AA genotypes for the rs16960228 and TC + CC genotypes for the rs1010544 PRKCA polymorphisms, and the CCG haplotype. Moreover, genotypes for the rs1010544 PRKCA polymorphism were associated with higher or lower blood pressure decreases in response to propofol depending on the genotypes for the rs2070744 NOS3 polymorphism. Our findings suggest that PRKCA genotypes and haplotypes impact the hypotensive responses to propofol, possibly by modifying NO bioavailability, and that PRKCA‐NOS3 interactions modify the blood pressure‐lowering effects of propofol.
Ad hominem rhetoric in scientific psychology
Authors: Holcombe Alex O.
Published: November 2021

Ad hominem discourse is largely prohibited in scientific journals. Historically, this prohibition restricted the dissemination of ad hominem discussion, but during the last decade, blogs and social media platforms became popular among researchers. With the use of social media now entrenched among researchers, there are important questions about the role of ad hominems. Ad hominems and other forms of strong criticism became particularly evident in online discussions associated with the recent replication crisis in psychology. Here, these discussions, and a few incidences of ad hominems in journal articles, are situated in the broader history of science. It is argued that explicit codes of conduct should be considered to curb certain kinds of ad hominem comments in certain fora, but that some ad hominem discussions have an important role to play in a healthier science.
Nature, timing and magnitude of buried Late Cretaceous magmatism on the central West Iberian Margin
Authors: Pereira Ricardo , Mata João , Ramalho Ricardo S. , Rosas Filipe M. , Silva Beatriz , Represas Patrícia , Escada Cláudia
Published: November 2021

The magma‐poor West Iberian Margin (WIM), as part of the Peri‐Atlantic alkaline province, records multiple evidence for intra‐plate post‐rift magmatism. Based on high‐resolution multichannel seismic data, this work discusses the presence of large volcanic and intrusive features in the Estremadura Spur, providing evidence for important magmatic activity during the drifting of the continental margin. Our observations reveal distinct voluminous fissure‐fed effusive sequences and the details of the 2800 m‐high Fontanelas compound volcano, including its external and internal architecture, secondary vents and associated lava flows, all of which were probably extruded at intermediate water depths. Numerous and morphologically diverse sills and sill complexes are also described, attesting to the presence of a Late Cretaceous shallow magmatic plumbing system in the area. Magmatism in this region is interpreted as having occurred during two main pulses and types of activity: (1) Coniacian to lower Campanian(?) age, characterised by fissural and fault‐controlled volcanism, which mostly extruded massive lobate/sheet lava flows; and (2) a second voluminous intrusive and extrusive event of mid to late Campanian age, which includes the intrusion of the Estremadura Spur laccolith and the prominent Fontanelas compound volcano with associated dendritic lava flows. The inferred volumes of the first fissure‐fed effusive event suggest a large eruption magnitude, comparable to some of the largest historical effusive eruptions. The second magmatic pulse led to the emplacement of discrete clusters of sills and sill complexes, as well as the construction of the ca. 2.8‐km‐high Fontanelas volcano, suggesting a syn‐rift structural inheritance that controlled the location of the Estremadura Spur Intrusion and the Fontanelas volcanic area. Altogether, a total volume of rock exceeding 1.452 km3 is estimated to have been emplaced or extruded in this region in a relatively short period, attesting to the prominence of the magmatism in this sector of the WIM.
The role of cognitive flexibility in weight loss after severe obesity surgery—A retrospective study
Authors: Santos Monteiro Pedro , Ribeiro Olga Rodrigues , Ribeiro Filipa
Published: November 2021

Cognitive flexibility (CF) is a fundamental skill for behavioural regulation and adaptation during the weight‐loss process. Research suggests that bariatric surgery (BS) candidates underperform consistently in the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), which is a neuropsychological instrument that measures this ability. The current study explored the predictive value of preoperative performance in WCST CF dimensions alongside relevant psychological factors on weight loss after BS. The sample comprised 100 female patients who underwent BS in a public hospital in Lisbon, Portugal. We collected data using the WCST, the Hopkins Symptom Checklist‐90‐Revised (SCL‐90‐R), and the Binge Eating Scale (BES). Multiple linear regression (MLR) analyses were performed to obtain explanatory models of total weight loss at 12‐ and 24‐postoperative months (TWL1 and TWL2, respectively). MLR identified the number of preservative responses as a highly significant predictor of TWL1 (p < 0.01), and the SCL‐90‐R obsession–compulsion and anxiety indices as highly significant predictors of TWL1 and TWL2 (p < 0.01). The number of preservative responses was a relevant predictor of weight loss at 12 months. Persisting in maladaptive cognitive strategies was associated with a lesser weight loss during the important period after BS that requires the adoption new lifestyle habits.
Association of obesity with serum free fatty acid levels in individuals at different stages of prediabetes
Authors: Sasaki Nobuo , Maeda Ryo , Ozono Ryoji , Nakano Yukiko , Higashi Yukihito
Published: November 2021

We investigated the associations of prediabetes categories and obesity with serum free fatty acid (FFA) levels and adipose tissue insulin resistance. This study included 5006 male participants (1779, 1025, 629, 874, and 699 with normal fasting glucose/normal glucose tolerance, isolated impaired fasting glucose [IFG], isolated impaired glucose tolerance [IGT], IFG plus IGT, and diabetes, respectively). Serum FFA levels were assessed before and 30, 60, and 120 min after glucose ingestion, and the total area under the FFA curve (AUCFFA) was calculated. Adipose insulin resistance index (adipo‐IR) was assessed based on fasting FFA and insulin concentrations. Isolated IFG was associated with high fasting FFA levels (OR, 1.35; p < 0.001) and high adipo‐IR (OR, 1.82; p < 0.001) only in the nonobesity group. Isolated IGT, IFG plus IGT, and diabetes were associated with high fasting FFA levels, regardless of obesity. Obesity was significantly associated with AUCFFA, and the duration of obesity‐related impairment in lipolysis inhibition after glucose ingestion was prolonged in IFG plus IGT and diabetes. These results suggest that IFG and obesity may overlap in their effects on FFA metabolism whereas IGT has significant effects on FFA independent of obesity. Obesity impact on lipolysis may be involved in worsening glucose metabolism.
Functional identity regulates aboveground biomass better than trait diversity along abiotic conditions in global forest metacommunities
Authors: Wang Li‐Qiu , Ali Arshad
Published: November 2021

Although several studies have identified the effects of functional trait diversity (FTD) and/or identity, i.e. the community‐weighted mean (CWM) of a trait, on aboveground biomass (AGB) along abiotic conditions, these effects on AGB in global forest metacommunities are still largely unexplored. Here, we modelled the effects of abiotic (i.e. climate, soil and plot physical conditions) and biotic [i.e. FTD, CWM of conservative traits (CWMCT), CWM of acquisitive traits (CWMAT) and functional dominance (FunDom; based on CWM of plant maximum height or diameter)] factors on AGB in 76 forest metacommunities (from 24 studies). Using multiple linear regression models and piecewise structural equation modeling (pSEM), we tested the hypothesis that both abiotic and biotic factors regulate AGB but that the mass ratio mechanism underpins AGB of metacommunities in global forests better than the niche complementarity mechanism. We found that abiotic and biotic factors contributed 45.39% and 54.07%, respectively, to the explained variance in AGB (R2 = 0.59), and as such, abiotic factors shaped FTD (R2 = 0.42–0.48), CWMCT (R2 = 0.33–0.36), CWMAT (R2 = 0.27–0.33) and FunDom (R2 = 0.59–0.61) through divergent effect sizes and directions. The final best‐fitted pSEM showed that FunDom increased (β = 0.49) but CWMCT (β = −0.35) and CWMAT (β = −0.11) decreased AGB (R2 = 0.52) as compared to the negligible effect of FTD (β = 0.04). This study supports the mass ratio effect, specifically the overruling role of tall‐stature or dominant trees on AGB, at a macroecological scale, and hence, suggests that a suitable species' functional strategy is important to promote carbon sequestration in forest metacommunities that underpins human well‐being. We expect that our study will advance the field of biodiversity–ecosystem functioning at a macroecological scale by using the metacommunity concept and approach.
Investigating personal and clinical recovery processes in people with first episode psychosis
Authors: Austin Stephen F. , Hjorthøj Carsten , Baagland Helle , Simonsen Erik , Dam Jesper
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness characterized by a range of symptoms such as distortions in reality, emotional abnormalities and deficits in cognition. Recovery from severe mental illness can be conceptualized in a number of ways. Clinical recovery has a focus on symptoms and functioning whilst personal recovery describes the process of developing new meaning and purpose in life beyond mental illness.

Objective

This longitudinal study examined the relationship between clinical and personal recovery processes within a group of people with first episode psychosis (FEP) receiving early intervention treatment over a period of up to 2 years.

Methods

The study sequentially recruited people with FEP that accepted into early intervention treatment. Participants were evaluated at baseline, 12 months and completion of treatment for clinical and personal recovery.

Results

A total of 51 participants were recruited, completed treatment and assessments. Modest but significant correlations (r = 0.38–0.51) were found between personal recovery and certain aspects of clinical recovery (negative symptoms and functioning). Improvements in functioning (vocational and social activities) predicted both personal and clinical recovery whilst negative symptoms predicted attaining clinical recovery. Reductions in negative symptoms (global, apathy and anhedonia) during treatment were associated with moving towards personal recovery. Psychotic symptoms were not significantly associated with the attainment of clinical or personal recovery.

Conclusions

Results indicated that clinical and personal recovery are interdependent and complementary processes. Mental health services may need implement interventions that simultaneously target clinical and personal recovery processes in order to meet the treatment needs of people with psychosis.