bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence‐based practice in canine artificial insemination
Authors: Joonè CJ
Published: May 2024

A number of methods are currently used to predict the optimal date of insemination of the breeding bitch, particularly with the use of frozen–thawed canine semen which has a far shorter lifespan than fresh semen. Aside from confirming cytological oestrus, vaginal cytology is of no assistance in predicting the most fertile day(s) in a bitch; however, a neglected avenue of research suggests that vaginal cytology may be of great importance in confirming the days of optimal fertility retrospectively. Similarly, vaginoscopy provides clues as to the stage of a bitch's cycle but is inadequate as a sole determinant of her most fertile days. Nevertheless, vaginoscopy is useful to identify very late oestrus and the onset of dioestrus, as well as Stage I of labour (cervical dilatation). Due to variations in the rate at which circulating progesterone concentrations rise in individual bitches, the reliability of circulating progesterone concentrations for determining the optimal day(s) of insemination with frozen–thawed semen decreases as values rise. Moreover, progesterone assay results can vary widely due to extrinsic factors such as the time of blood sampling, sample storage conditions and the assay employed. Finally, this review investigates evidence surrounding various insemination routes and suggests that well‐performed vaginal insemination, even with frozen–thawed semen, may be an acceptable approach for cases where transcervical insemination is impractical.
The social aspects of illness: Children's and parents' explanations of the relation between social categories and illness in a predominantly white U.S. sample
Authors: Menendez David , Labotka Danielle , Umscheid Valerie A. , Gelman Susan A.
Published: May 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic in the United States has had a disproportionate impact on Black, low‐income, and elderly individuals. We recruited 175 predominantly white children ages 5–12 and their parents (N = 112) and asked which of two individuals (differing in age, gender, race, social class, or personality) was more likely to get sick with either COVID‐19 or the common cold and why. Children and parents reported that older adults were more likely to get sick than younger adults, but reported few differences based on gender, race, social class, or personality. Children predominantly used behavioral explanations, but older children used more biological and structural explanations. Thus, children have some understanding of health disparities, and their understanding increases with age.
Sonnenschutz bei Beschäftigten im Freien. Entwicklung und Validierung von standardisierten Fragebögen für Verhalten und Wissen
Authors: Rönsch Henriette , Rocholl Marc , Ludewig Michaela , Staudt Andreas , Langner Mathias , Steeb Theresa , Wilke Annika , John Swen Malte , Berking Carola , Beissert Stefan , Bauer Andrea
Published: May 2024

Hintergrund und Ziele

Beschäftigte im Freien haben ein erhöhtes Risiko, an Nicht‐Melanom‐Hautkrebs zu erkranken. Ziel dieser Studie war es, den Mangel an validierten deutschsprachigen Messinstrumenten für das Sonnenschutzverhalten und ‐wissen von Außenbeschäftigten durch das Zusammenstellen und Validieren von zwei Fragebögen zu beheben.

Teilnehmer und Methoden

Per Expertenkonsens wurden auf der Grundlage bestehender Messinstrumente Items für die Bewertung des Schutzverhaltens zusammengestellt (OccuSun). Für das Wissen wurde eine Übersetzung der Skin‐Cancer‐and‐Sun‐Knowledge‐Skala (SCSK) ausgewählt. Nach einem Pretest wurde im Jahr 2020 eine Validierungsstudie mit 68 im Freien arbeitenden Personen (62% weiblich) durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse

Die Retest‐Reliabilität betrug r = 0,93 (95%‐Konfidenzintervall: 0,86–0,96) für den Schutzscore und rs = 0,78 (0,67–0,86) für den Wissensscore. Das Schutzverhalten korrelierte mit den entsprechenden Tagebuchdaten (0,38 ≤ rs ≤ 0,74, p < 0,001) und den Veränderungen der Hautpigmentierung (–0,23 ≥ rs ≥ –0,42, 0,007 ≤ p ≤ 0,165), nicht aber mit der selbstberichteten Häufigkeit von Sonnenbränden (0,21 ≥ rs ≥ –0,04).

Schlussfolgerungen

Zwei Fragebögen zur Erfassung des Sonnenschutzverhaltens (OccuSun) und Sonnenschutzwissens (SCSK) zeigten bei deutschen Außenbeschäftigten eine gute Reliabilität. Der OccuSun hatte allgemein eine gute Validität. Beide Instrumente eignen sich für eine anschließende Validierung, um ihre Änderungssensitivität zu bestimmen.
Dosis‐Wirkungs‐Beziehung zwischen Alkoholkonsum und Psoriasis: Systematische Übersicht und Metaanalyse
Authors: Choi Jeeyu , Han Ikjoon , Min Joohong , Yun Jisang , Kim Byung‐Soo , Shin Kihyuk , Kim Kihun , Kim Yun Hak
Published: May 2024

Verschiedene Studien zur Assoziation zwischen Psoriasis und Alkoholkonsum ergeben kein einheitliches Bild. Nach unserer Kenntnis wurde allerdings bisher noch keine Metaanalyse zur Dosis‐Wirkungs‐Beziehung durchgeführt. Diese Studie untersucht die Assoziation zwischen Alkoholkonsum und Psoriasis. Die Datenbanksuche wurde am 27. Juli 2021 in den Datenbanken Embase und MEDLINE durchgeführt. Zur Analyse der Dosis‐Wirkungs‐Beziehung wurde die Restricted‐cubic‐Spline‐Analyse eingesetzt. Insgesamt konnten wir 3904 Studien identifizieren, von denen letztlich 48 mit einer Gesamtpopulation von 1 702 847 Personen in die Metaanalyse einbezogen wurden. Alkoholkonsum war positiv assoziiert mit Psoriasis (Odds Ratio [OR] 1,47; 95%‐Konfidenzintervall [KI] 1,27–1,70). Außerdem fand sich eine positive OR für Psoriasis bei Männern (OR 1,84; 95% KI 1,13–3,01), nicht aber bei Frauen (OR 1,22; 95% KI 0,97–1,54). Auf der Basis von acht Studien (drei Kohortenstudien und fünf Fall‐Kontroll‐Studien) ergab die Analyse, dass sich für jedes zusätzliche Gramm an täglichem Alkoholkonsum die OR für Psoriasis um 4% erhöht. Wir konnten eine positive Assoziation zwischen Alkoholkonsum und Psoriasis feststellen. Diese Assoziation ist deutlicher in der Gruppe von Personen, die täglich mehr als 45 Gramm Alkohol zu sich nehmen (dies entspricht täglich 3,2 Gläsern eines alkoholischen Getränks).
Corporate pension funds’ search for yield with private equity investment: Its determinants and consequences
Authors: Park Youngkyun , Song Hakjoon
Published: May 2024

This study examines corporate pension funds’ search for yield through investments in private equity (PE). Using pension asset allocation data from 10‐K filings, we find that corporate pension funds significantly increase the PE share within their risky assets following underperformance relative to their expected return. This risk‐taking behavior is more pronounced for sponsoring firms that were more financially constrained with poorly funded plans in the previous year. Furthermore, we discover that pension asset allocation to PE does not significantly increase pension returns but does lower pension return volatility and tracking error relative to the expected return.
The transformation of UK Chilean diaspora space: new Chilean migrants and encounters across time
Authors: Radley Chantal
Published: May 2024

The Chilean diaspora space in the United Kingdom has been transformed over its 50‐year existence. From its origins as a diaspora born of political conflict and the arrival of Chilean exiles during the dictatorship, it has evolved into an altogether more diverse arena. New migrants with different interests and agendas have unsettled the delicate balance of exile life, and the impact of the clash of different histories in this diaspora space remains unknown. Although the experience of Chilean exiles has been actively studied, new empirical data introduces the existence of a much broader diaspora than that portrayed in the literature. The UK space of the Chilean diaspora has been radically altered through the diverse interests that the new cohorts bring and the organizations that reflect these new forms of interaction, as well as the divisive issues of past and present conflict that highlight the unresolved nature of the long‐term experience of exile.
Chemical bonds and hair behaviour—A review
Authors: Breakspear S. , Nöcker B. , Popescu C.
Published: May 2024

When undertaking any review of the structure of the hair and its mechanical properties it becomes apparent that the overall behaviour of keratin fibres is commonly attributed to the presence of hydrogen, disulfide and ionic bonds. The action of physico‐chemical agents used during various cosmetic treatments is viewed as the result of an interaction with these bonds. Thus, the breaking of bonds by chemical agents, or via mechanical or thermal stresses, affects the relative balance of disulfide and hydrogen bonds and the contribution of hydrophobic interactions, which are all important factors that may alter hair behaviour. Generally, these chemical bonds are considered as responding homogeneously to the environmental and cosmetic factors. This unitary image is challenged, however, by evaluating the results of chemical, nanomechanical, tensile and thermal measurements, which suggest that disulfide bonds may be grouped into several types, according to their location within the fibre and the way they respond to various agents. A compensatory effect of newly formed hydrogen bonds for broken disulfide bonds may also be seen, and additionally involves different types of hydrogen bonds. As a result, the picture of chemical bonding in hair appears to be far from a homogeneous one. In addition, it is apparent that further investigation is required for clarifying the action of ionic bonds and hydrophobic interactions within the hair fibre. The present review aims, thus, at offering a deeper background for understanding how the hair behaves under various conditions.
The role of Ti in mitigating thermal expansion of silica from molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Tian Ye , Wang Fang , Liu Hongjie , Zheng Wanguo , Deng Xuewei
Published: May 2024

Molecular dynamics simulations are performed to investigate the structural response of titania silicate glass to temperature. The coefficient of thermal expansion is computed for two titania silicate glasses with 0 and 10 mol% titania content, the structures of which are presented in terms of radial and angular distributions. Revealed by the different changing rates of intertetrahedra bond angles and bond lengths with respect to the Ti and Si atoms, the glass structures tend to exhibit a nonvectorized expansion process at elevated temperatures, leading to inconsistent expansion rates of the structures in different scales. While the average length of TiO and Si‐O bonds both increases with temperature, the decrease in the coefficient of thermal expansion by the addition of Ti atoms is associated with the different expansion rate of tetrahedra. Arising from the gradual decrease in atomic overlapping, decrease in free volume inside the glass with temperature is also identified.
Transcriptional and hormonal control of adipose Treg heterogeneity and function
Authors: Kallies Axel , Vasanthakumar Ajithkumar
Published: May 2024

Adipose tissue stores excess energy and produces a broad range of factors that regulate multiple physiological processes including systemic energy homeostasis. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) plays a particularly important role in glucose metabolism as its endocrine function underpins food uptake and energy expenditure. Caloric excess triggers VAT inflammation which can impair insulin sensitivity and cause metabolic deregulation. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) that reside in the VAT suppress inflammation and protect from metabolic disease. The cellular components of VAT and its secretory products play a vital role in fostering the differentiation and maintenance of VAT Tregs. Critically, the physiology and inflammatory tone of VAT exhibit sex‐specific disparities, resulting in substantial VAT Treg heterogeneity. Indeed, cytokines and sex hormones promote the differentiation of distinct populations of mature VAT Tregs, each characterized by unique phenotypes, homeostatic requirements, and functions. This review focuses on key findings that have significantly advanced our understanding of VAT Treg biology and the current state of the field, while also discussing open questions that require further exploration.
Evaluating Seasonal Variations in Human Contact Patterns and Their Impact on the Transmission of Respiratory Infectious Diseases
Authors: Kummer Allisandra G. , Zhang Juanjuan , Jiang Chenyan , Litvinova Maria , Ventura Paulo C. , Garcia Marc A. , Vespignani Alessandro , Wu Huanyu , Yu Hongjie , Ajelli Marco
Published: May 2024

Background

Human contact patterns are a key determinant driving the spread of respiratory infectious diseases. However, the relationship between contact patterns and seasonality as well as their possible association with the seasonality of respiratory diseases is yet to be clarified.

Methods

We investigated the association between temperature and human contact patterns using data collected through a cross‐sectional diary‐based contact survey in Shanghai, China, between December 24, 2017, and May 30, 2018. We then developed a compartmental model of influenza transmission informed by the derived seasonal trends in the number of contacts and validated it against A(H1N1)pdm09 influenza data collected in Shanghai during the same period.

Results

We identified a significant inverse relationship between the number of contacts and the seasonal temperature trend defined as a spline interpolation of temperature data (p = 0.003). We estimated an average of 16.4 (95% PrI: 15.1–17.5) contacts per day in December 2017 that increased to an average of 17.6 contacts (95% PrI: 16.5–19.3) in January 2018 and then declined to an average of 10.3 (95% PrI: 9.4–10.8) in May 2018. Estimates of influenza incidence obtained by the compartmental model comply with the observed epidemiological data. The reproduction number was estimated to increase from 1.24 (95% CI: 1.21–1.27) in December to a peak of 1.34 (95% CI: 1.31–1.37) in January. The estimated median infection attack rate at the end of the season was 27.4% (95% CI: 23.7–30.5%).

Conclusions

Our findings support a relationship between temperature and contact patterns, which can contribute to deepen the understanding of the relationship between social interactions and the epidemiology of respiratory infectious diseases.
The role of financial inclusion, technology innovation, energy and environmental degradation in determining sustainable growth in Asia
Authors: Azam Khan Muhammad , Nawab Shagufta , Gohar Ali
Published: May 2024

Sustainable growth is a top priority for all economies as they work towards creating a prosperous and resilient future for current and future generations. This study empirically explores the important role of financial inclusion (FI), energy consumption, technological (TECH) innovation and environmental degradation in the economic growth of 13 selected developing Asian countries from 2000 to 2021. The feasible generalized least squares method is used for empirical examinations due to the nature of the data. The study focuses on three dimensions of FI: penetration, usage and availability of financial institutions. The results show that FI, energy consumption and TECH innovation encourage economic growth, whereas ecological footprint discourages economic growth in selected Asian countries. The empirical findings highlight the importance of promoting sustainable growth in Asia through enhanced FI, TECH innovation, sustainable energy practices and environmental conservation. Governments in these countries should prioritize strengthening the financial sector, investing in research and development and implementing effective policies to ensure a clean and green environment. This will lead to inclusive and environmentally responsible development that benefits both current and future generations in the region.
3D Printed P(VdF‐HFP)/SBA‐15 composite‐based gel polymer electrolyte versus commercial celgard: A comparative investigation on thermal stability and electrochemical performance for lithium‐ion battery application
Authors: Robert Vijay , Loganathan Sravanthi , Sivashanmugam Arumugam , Thomas Sabu , Valapa Ravi Babu
Published: May 2024

The current work reports on tailoring of 3D printed gel polymer electrolyte (GPE) employing poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) P(VdF‐HFP) as the host matrix and mesoporous Santa Barbara Amorphous‐15 (SBA‐15) mesoporous sieve as ceramic filler. Further, this work envisages an investigation on its physicochemical properties, thermal shrinkage behavior, and electrochemical performance. An effort has been undertaken to formulate 3D printable P(VdF‐HFP)/SBA‐15 composite‐based GPE ink with suitable rheological properties. The breath figure method is followed to investigate the influence of 1‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidinone (NMP)/tetrahydrofuran (THF) mixture as a solvent on the porosity of 3D printed GPE, through which enhanced porosity is evident from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The morphological analysis further confirms the hybrid porous structure facilitated by the addition of SBA‐15 into the P(VdF‐HFP) matrix. The 3D printed P(VdF‐HFP)/SBA‐15 (10%) composite‐based GPE shows promising ionic conductivity in the order of 0.2 × 10−4 S/cm at room temperature and demonstrates excellent dimensional thermal stability up to 175°C. The electrochemical measurement of 3D printed GPE is tested separately using 3D printed cathode half‐cell (3D printed LFP vs. Li+) and 3D printed anode half cell (3D printed LTO vs. Li+) with GPE as separator. Further, also tested with conventionally prepared electrode and the coin cell studies show discharge capacity of 3D printed P(VdF‐HFP)/SBA‐15 (10%) composite‐based GPE is comparable to commercial celgard separator. All these features speculate that the 3D printed fabricated in the current work may find potential application in lithium‐ion battery.
Nurse by numbers: The impact of early warning systems on nurses' higher‐order thinking, a quantitative study
Authors: Le Lagadec Marie Danielle , Massey Deb , Byrne Amy‐Louise , Connor Justine , Flenady Tracy
Published: May 2024

Aim

To evaluate registered nurses' perceptions of whether the mandated use of the early warning system vital signs tool impacts the development of nurses' higher‐order thinking skills.

Design

A concurrent mixed methods study design.

Method

Using an online survey, registered nurses' perceptions were elucidated on whether early warning system algorithmic tools affected the development of their higher‐order thinking. Likert‐type matrix questions with additional qualitative fields were used to obtain information on nurse's perceptions of the tool's usefulness, clinical confidence in using the tool, compliance with escalation protocols, work environment and perceived compliance barriers.

Results

Most of the 305 (91%) participants included in the analysis had more than 5 years of nursing experience. Most nurses supported the early warning tool and were happy to comply with escalation protocols if the early warning score concurred with their assessment of the patient (63.6%). When the score and the nurse's higher‐order thinking did not align, some had the confidence to override the escalation protocol (40.0%), while others omitted (69.4%) or inaccurately documented vital signs (63.3%) to achieve the desired score. Very few nurses (3.6%) believe using early warning tools did not impede the development of higher‐order thinking.

Conclusion

Although experienced nurses appreciate the support of early warning tools, most value patient safety above the tools and rely on their higher‐order thinking. The sustained development and use of nurses' higher‐order thinking should be encouraged, possibly by adding a critical thinking criterion to existing algorithmic tools.

Impact

The study has implications for all nurses who utilize algorithmic tools, such as early warning systems, in their practice. Relying heavily on algorithmic tools risks impeding the development of higher‐order thinking. Most experienced nurses prioritize their higher‐order thinking in decision‐making but believe early warning tools can impede higher‐order thinking.

Patient or Public Contribution

Registered nurses participated as survey respondents.
International Skin Imaging Collaboration‐Designated Diagnoses (ISIC‐DX): Consensus terminology for lesion diagnostic labeling
Authors: Scope Alon , Liopyris Konstantinos , Weber Jochen , Barnhill Raymond L. , Braun Ralph P. , Curiel‐Lewandrowski Clara N. , Elder David E. , Ferrara Gerardo , Grant‐Kels Jane M. , Jeunon Thiago , Lallas Aimilios , Lin Jennifer Y. , Marchetti Michael A. , Marghoob Ashfaq A. , Navarrete‐Dechent Cristian , Pellacani Giovanni , Soyer Hans Peter , Stratigos Alexander , Thomas Luc , Kittler Harald , Rotemberg Veronica , Halpern Allan C.
Published: May 2024

Background

A common terminology for diagnosis is critically important for clinical communication, education, research and artificial intelligence. Prevailing lexicons are limited in fully representing skin neoplasms.

Objectives

To achieve expert consensus on diagnostic terms for skin neoplasms and their hierarchical mapping.

Methods

Diagnostic terms were extracted from textbooks, publications and extant diagnostic codes. Terms were hierarchically mapped to super‐categories (e.g. ‘benign’) and cellular/tissue‐differentiation categories (e.g. ‘melanocytic’), and appended with pertinent‐modifiers and synonyms. These terms were evaluated using a modified‐Delphi consensus approach. Experts from the International‐Skin‐Imaging‐Collaboration (ISIC) were surveyed on agreement with terms and their hierarchical mapping; they could suggest modifying, deleting or adding terms. Consensus threshold was >75% for the initial rounds and >50% for the final round.

Results

Eighteen experts completed all Delphi rounds. Of 379 terms, 356 (94%) reached consensus in round one. Eleven of 226 (5%) benign‐category terms, 6/140 (4%) malignant‐category terms and 6/13 (46%) indeterminate‐category terms did not reach initial agreement. Following three rounds, final consensus consisted of 362 terms mapped to 3 super‐categories and 41 cellular/tissue‐differentiation categories.

Conclusions

We have created, agreed upon, and made public a taxonomy for skin neoplasms and their hierarchical mapping. Further study will be needed to evaluate the utility and completeness of the lexicon.
Determinants of stock market participation
Authors: Menkhoff Lukas , Westermann Jannis
Published: May 2024

The low degree of stock market participation (SMP) is one of the big puzzles in finance. Numerous determinants have been proposed. We put these determinants into a structure that is derived from a standard static portfolio model. Then we discuss arguments put forward regarding specific SMP determinants and the empirical evidence that has been provided. The focus of our survey is on the identification of a causal impact of determinants on SMP via shocks. We summarize the evidence by suggesting established and likely SMP determinants and providing an outlook for future research and policy.
Disaster Journalism Through a Political Economy Framework: An Analysis of the Turkish Press Coverage of the 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes
Authors: Kayıhan Bahar
Published: May 2024

On February 6, 2023, devastating earthquakes of magnitude 7.8 and 7.6 struck the Kahramanmaraş region of southeastern Türkiye, affecting eleven Turkish provinces, killing more than 50,000 people, and collapsing or severely damaging approximately 300,000 structures. This study examines the coverage of the Kahramanmaraş earthquake in the Turkish press through a content analysis of news articles published in the 10 days following the earthquake. The aim of the study is to investigate the presence and manifestations of political bias in the news based on political economy theory. For this purpose, two newspapers representing opposing views, Sabah and Cumhuriyet, were selected. As a result, it was observed that both newspapers devoted a remarkably limited amount of their coverage to scientific data and needs. However, it was observed that there were significant differences between the two newspapers in terms of topics, photo preferences, news actors, accused persons, and representation of aid donors. In addition, economic and political biases were found in the media's portrayal of earthquakes. Cumhuriyet focused more on the negative, while Sabah focused more on the positive, emphasizing relief efforts that served to foster a sense of solidarity and shift the narrative away from negativity. In addition, the study observed an excessive focus on soccer players, showing that newspapers may prioritize such coverage to optimize profitability, suggesting a potential commercial agenda underlying news content decisions.
Formation of nanophase metallic iron through charge disproportionation of ferrous iron during micrometeoroid impact‐induced splash melting
Authors: Xian Haiyang , Zhu Jianxi , Yang Yiping , Li Shan , Xi Jiaxin , Lin Xiaoju , Xing Jieqi , Wu Xiao , Yang Hongmei , He Hongping , Xu Yi‐Gang
Published: May 2024

Charge disproportionation of ferrous iron has been considered as one of the mechanisms for the formation of metallic iron on the lunar surface. However, the detailed mechanism of the disproportionation reaction on the Moon is yet to be elucidated. We provide direct evidence for the ferrous disproportionation reaction that produces nano phase metallic iron (npFe0) during a rapid cooling process after splash melting from a lunar sample returned by China's Chang'e‐5 mission. Space weathering processes have resulted in the formation of three distinct zones at the rim of a pyroxene fragment, as observed through transmission electron microscopy. These zones, made up of splashed melts, newly formed melts from the substrate, and the mineral, are distinguished as I, II, and III. Quantitative analyses of the iron valence state by electron energy loss spectroscopy show that disproportionation reactions occurred in zone II at a low temperature of <570°C during a rapid cooling process. The reaction led to the production of α‐structure npFe0 and Fe3+ reserve in the glass phase. The npFe0 produced by the disproportionation reaction has a larger grain size than those formed from solar wind irradiation, implying that micrometeoroid impacts mainly contribute to the darkening of visible and near‐infrared reflectance. These findings reveal a novel rim structure by repeated space weathering and a universal formation mechanism of npFe0 during micrometeoroid impacts, suggesting that the disproportionation reaction could be widespread on airless bodies with impact‐induced splash processes.
Metal impact and vaporization on the Moon's surface: Nano‐geochemical insights into the source of lunar metals
Authors: Gopon Phillip , Douglas James O. , Gardner Hazel , Moody Michael P. , Wood Bernard , Halliday Alexander N. , Wade Jon
Published: May 2024

Millimeter‐to‐nanometer‐sized iron‐ and nickel‐rich metals are ubiquitous on the lunar surface. The proposed origin of these metals falls into two broad classes which should have distinct geochemical signatures—(1) the reduction of iron‐bearing minerals or (2) the addition of metals from meteoritic sources. The metals measured here from the Apollo 16 regolith possess low Ni (2–6 wt%) and elevated Ge (80–350 ppm) suggesting a meteoritic origin. However, the measured Ni is lower, and the Ge higher than currently known iron meteorites. In comparison to the low Ni iron meteorites, the even lower Ni and higher Ge contents exhibited by these lunar metals are best explained by impact‐driven volatilization and condensation of Ni‐poor meteoritic metal during their impact and addition to the lunar surface. The presence of similar, low Ni‐bearing metals in Apollo return samples from geographically distant sites suggests that this geochemical signature might not be restricted to just the Apollo 16 locality and that volatility‐driven modification of meteoritic metals are a common feature of lunar regolith formation. The possibility of a significant low Ni/high Ge meteoritic component in the lunar regolith, and the observation of chemical fractionation during emplacement, has implications for the interpretation of both lunar remote‐sensing data and bulk geochemical data derived from sample return material. Additionally, our observation of predominantly meteoritic sourced metals has implications for the prevalence of meteoritic addition on airless planetary bodies.
Genomic landscapes of divergence among island bird populations: Evidence of parallel adaptation but at different loci?
Authors: Martin Claudia A. , Sheppard Eleanor C. , Ali Hisham A. A. , Illera Juan Carlos , Suh Alexander , Spurgin Lewis G. , Richardson David S.
Published: May 2024

When populations colonise new environments, they may be exposed to novel selection pressures but also suffer from extensive genetic drift due to founder effects, small population sizes and limited interpopulation gene flow. Genomic approaches enable us to study how these factors drive divergence, and disentangle neutral effects from differentiation at specific loci due to selection. Here, we investigate patterns of genetic diversity and divergence using whole‐genome resequencing (>22× coverage) in Berthelot's pipit (Anthus berthelotii), a passerine endemic to the islands of three north Atlantic archipelagos. Strong environmental gradients, including in pathogen pressure, across populations in the species range, make it an excellent system in which to explore traits important in adaptation and/or incipient speciation. First, we quantify how genomic divergence accumulates across the speciation continuum, that is, among Berthelot's pipit populations, between sub species across archipelagos, and between Berthelot's pipit and its mainland ancestor, the tawny pipit (Anthus campestris). Across these colonisation timeframes (2.1 million–ca. 8000 years ago), we identify highly differentiated loci within genomic islands of divergence and conclude that the observed distributions align with expectations for non‐neutral divergence. Characteristic signatures of selection are identified in loci associated with craniofacial/bone and eye development, metabolism and immune response between population comparisons. Interestingly, we find limited evidence for repeated divergence of the same loci across the colonisation range but do identify different loci putatively associated with the same biological traits in different populations, likely due to parallel adaptation. Incipient speciation across these island populations, in which founder effects and selective pressures are strong, may therefore be repeatedly associated with morphology, metabolism and immune defence.
AvrSr27 is a zinc‐bound effector with a modular structure important for immune recognition
Authors: Outram Megan A. , Chen Jian , Broderick Sean , Li Zhao , Aditya Shouvik , Tasneem Nuren , Arndell Taj , Blundell Cheryl , Ericsson Daniel J. , Figueroa Melania , Sperschneider Jana , Dodds Peter N. , Williams Simon J.
Published: May 2024

Effector proteins are central to the success of plant pathogens, while immunity in host plants is driven by receptor‐mediated recognition of these effectors. Understanding the molecular details of effector–receptor interactions is key for the engineering of novel immune receptors.

Here, we experimentally determined the crystal structure of the Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt) effector AvrSr27, which was not accurately predicted using AlphaFold2. We characterised the role of the conserved cysteine residues in AvrSr27 using in vitro biochemical assays and examined Sr27‐mediated recognition using transient expression in Nicotiana spp. and wheat protoplasts.

The AvrSr27 structure contains a novel β‐strand rich modular fold consisting of two structurally similar domains that bind to Zn2+ ions. The N‐terminal domain of AvrSr27 is sufficient for interaction with Sr27 and triggering cell death. We identified two Pgt proteins structurally related to AvrSr27 but with low sequence identity that can also associate with Sr27, albeit more weakly. Though only the full‐length proteins, trigger Sr27‐dependent cell death in transient expression systems.

Collectively, our findings have important implications for utilising protein prediction platforms for effector proteins, and those embarking on bespoke engineering of immunity receptors as solutions to plant disease.
Financial Advice and Household Financial Portfolios*
Authors: Brown Sarah , Bucciol Alessandro , Montagnoli Alberto , Taylor Karl
Published: May 2024

We explore the demand for financial advice and the role of such advice in shaping household financial portfolios. Since taking financial advice may not be randomly allocated among households, understanding the drivers behind receiving financial advice is important before exploring the role of financial advice in shaping the composition of household portfolios. A number of specification tests are undertaken, including exploring the sensitivity of the results to selection as well matching estimation techniques. The analysis reveals that financial advice is inversely (positively) associated with the share of wealth held in real estate (bonds and stocks).
Assessment of genotypic variability and genome‐wide association analysis of cooking time and canning quality traits in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Kesiime Eunice Vasiter , Nkalubo Stanley Tamusange , Ochwo Ssemakula Mildred , Dramadri Isaac Onziga , Mukankusi Clare , Nakimbugwe Dorothy , Edema Richard , Gibson Paul , Badji Arfang
Published: May 2024

Developing improved common bean varieties with short cooking time (CT) and good canning quality traits (CQTs) is very key for accelerating bean consumption among the urban and middle‐class population. The objective of this study was to assess the genotypic variability and identify single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers associated with CT and CQTs in common bean. A total of 250 common bean accessions were evaluated under field conditions for two seasons using alpha lattice design with two replications. Three months post‐harvest, the dry bean grains were evaluated for CT and CQTs. Significant variation was observed among the 250 common bean accessions tested for both traits. CT ranged from 51 to 215 min, with 11 genotypes cooking in less than 60 min. The percentage total CQTs' score ranged from 41% to 84% with 31 genotypes scoring 76% and above. Forty‐seven significant GWAS signals were detected for CT on chromosomes Pv01, Pv04, Pv05 and Pv11 and CQTs on Pv01, Pv02, Pv03, Pv04, Pv05, Pv06, Pv07, Pv08, Pv10 and Pv11, respectively. Positional candidate genes including Phvul.005G161200 on chromosome Pv05, Phvul.007G2803001 and Phvul.007G280700 on chromosome Pv07 were associated with seed coat colour retention of the canned beans. Besides their usefulness in breeding research, the identified bean genotypes with shorter CT and good CQTs could enhance bean consumption and processing industries.
Alternaria in berry: Effects on its quality, pathogenic mechanisms and potential control strategies
Authors: Cong Kaiping , Cheng Jinfeng , Li Tingting , Wu Caie , Fan Gongjian , Li Xiaojing , Zhou Dandan
Published: May 2024

In recent years, the production and demand of berries in the world have gradually increased, but the infection of fungal pathogens has become one of the important factors restricting the production and sales of fresh berries. It has been found that Alternaria can cause a variety of plant diseases and fruit rot worldwide. This review introduces the effect of Alternaria infection on berry quality, including physical, chemical and physiological aspects, and discusses the possible infection mechanisms. In addition, Alternaria produces toxins during infections and seriously threatens the safety of berries and consumer health. Therefore, the prevention and control measures of Alternaria are systematically summarized. This review provides the basis for further optimization of postharvest preservation technology and fruit quality, to prolong the shelf life of berries. We can realistically expect to control plant diseases with increasing efficiency, which is conducive to improving the quality and safety of postharvest berry fruits.
Sphaerothrix gracilis gen. et sp. nov. (Nodosilineales, Cyanobacteria): a novel filamentous cyanobacterium isolated from tropical coastal microplastics
Authors: Curren Emily , Kuwahara Victor S. , Yoshida Teruaki , Leong Sandric Chee Yew
Published: May 2024

Cyanobacteria are ancient organisms that contribute significantly to primary production in aquatic ecosystems. Although they are a group of microbes present in a wide range of environments, their diversity on anthropogenic substrates, namely microplastics, is still largely unknown. In the present study, we describe a new genus and species of cyanobacteria from the Nodosilineaceae family. Strains were isolated from foam microplastic particles obtained from beach sediments facing the Singapore Strait. This species is morphologically similar to the polyphyletic, cosmopolitan Leptolyngbya spp.; however, it forms an independent clade with 16S rRNA phylogeny and has a unique 16S–23S internal transcribed spacer secondary structure. To date, no cyanobacteria have been isolated and cultured from the surfaces of microplastic particles. Using a polyphasic approach combining morphological, phylogenetic and ecological traits, we describe a new genus and species Sphaerothrix gracilis. The presence of certain cyanobacteria rafting on microplastic surfaces can potentially indicate a long‐distance transport into new ecosystems with implications on toxicity and biodiversity.
A text mining analysis of European banks' and insurers' disclosures on climate‐related risks
Authors: Kraus Anna
Published: May 2024

This paper empirically analyzes sustainability‐related disclosures of listed European banks and insurance companies by focusing on transition risks, physical risks as well as stranded assets as a possible consequence of transition and physical risks. We employ a text mining analysis and apply a comprehensive keyword catalog to 142 firms. The dataset used for the analysis comprises 852 annual and 551 sustainability reports, covering a sample period from 2017 to 2022. Our results show that disclosure on climate‐related risks considerably increases over the examined period, but that reporting on stranded assets is still in early stages. Moreover, European insurers report more on climate‐related risks relative to the number of analyzed tokens than banks. Finally, statistical evidence suggests that larger banks and insurers with above‐median market capitalization exhibit significantly more word hits on climate‐related risks as compared to smaller firms.
Finnish district judges' assessments of live versus video‐mediated party statements in court
Authors: Wilkman Jonas , Antfolk Jan , Korkman Julia
Published: May 2024

The increase in remote hearings after the COVID‐19 pandemic presents an urgent need to examine how judges assess video‐mediated witness and party statements compared with live statements. There is currently a limited body of research on this subject. As for the assessment itself, professionals within the judicial system sometimes believe they can detect deception based on visible cues such as body language and emotional expression. Research has, however, shown that lies cannot be detected based on such cues. The Finnish Supreme Court has also given rulings in accordance with the scientific literature. In this study, we used a survey to investigate how much importance a Finnish sample of district judges (N = 47) gave to several variables pertaining to the statement or the statement giver, such as body language and emotional expression. We also investigated the association between the judges' beliefs about the relevance of body language and emotional expression and their preference for live statements or statements via videoconference. The judges reported giving more importance to body language and emotional expression than legal psychology research and Finnish Supreme Court rulings would call for. Our results also indicated that there was a slight bias to assess live statements more favorably than statements given via videoconference, as well as a slight bias in favor of the injured party. More effort must be put into making judges and Supreme Courts aware of findings in legal psychology to avoid biases based on intuitive reasoning where it is contrary to scientific evidence.
Characterisation of the novel HLA‐C*15:274 allele using short and long‐read sequencing technologies
Authors: Oliveira Victoria , Andrade Gabriela , Porto Luís Cristóvão , Vianna Romulo , Secco Danielle
Published: May 2024

The novel HLA‐C*15:274 allele, first described in a potential bone marrow donor from Brazil.
Digital Experiments with Landed Property: Robots, Race, and Rent
Authors: Fields Desiree
Published: May 2024

A wide range of digital innovations has changed property relations globally over the past fifteen years. What are we to make of these digital experiments with landed property? I argue we should not mistake their technological novelty for a break with the geographic and historical specificities of property relations. The yoking of property to modernity and civilization makes technological progress a fundamental part of how relationships to land are constituted and reconstituted, and in whose interests, throughout global capitalism. In this article, I situate 21st century housing market technologies within sedimented relations of landed property in the United States, showing the history of property innovation in the United States is also one of racialized wealth accumulation and dispossession. I interpret current anxieties about ‘robot landlords’ as anxieties about how the shifting landscape of property ownership appears to threaten the economic benefits associated with racial dominance.
R2R3‐MYB transcription factor CsMYB60 controls mature fruit skin color by regulating flavonoid accumulation in cucumber
Authors: Xu Xuewen , Zhu Yu , Yuan Ying , Sohail Hamza , He Shuying , Ye Yi , Wang Meixin , Lv Mai , Qi Xiaohua , Yang Xiaodong , Chen Xuehao
Published: May 2024

Skin color is an important trait that determines the cosmetic appearance and quality of fruits. In cucumber, the skin color ranges from white to brown in mature fruits. However, the genetic basis for this important trait remains unclear. We conducted a genome‐wide association study of natural cucumber populations, along with map‐based cloning techniques, on an F2 population resulting from a cross between Pepino (with yellow‐brown fruit skin) and Zaoer‐N (with creamy fruit skin). We identified CsMYB60 as a candidate gene responsible for skin coloration in mature cucumber fruits. In cucumber accessions with white to pale yellow skin color, a premature stop mutation (C to T) was found in the second exon region of CsMYB60, whereas light yellow cucumber accessions exhibited splicing premature termination caused by an intronic mutator‐like element insertion in CsMYB60. Transgenic CsMYB60c cucumber plants displayed a yellow‐brown skin color by promoting accumulation of flavonoids, especially hyperoside, a yellow‐colored flavonol. CsMYB60c encodes a nuclear protein that primarily acts as a transcriptional activator through its C‐terminal activation motif. RNA sequencing and DNA affinity purification sequencing assays revealed that CsMYB60c promotes skin coloration by directly binding to the YYTACCTAMYT motif in the promoter regions of flavonoid biosynthetic genes, including CsF3′H, which encodes flavonoid 3′‐hydroxylase. The findings of our study not only offer insight into the function of CsMYB60 as dominantly controlling fruit coloration, but also highlight that intronic DNA mutations can have a similar phenotypic impact as exonic mutations, which may be valuable in future cucumber breeding programs.
Residency program factors affecting ACVS board examination pass rates from 2017 to 2021: A survey of ACVS small animal surgery residency programs
Authors: Michael Aleisha E. , Arai Shiori , Gordon‐Evans Wanda J.
Published: May 2024

Objective

To identify small animal surgery (SAS) residency program factors associated with board examination pass rates for the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) board certification examinations.

Study design

Online survey.

Sample population

Program directors of ACVS‐registered SAS residency programs.

Methods

An online survey was distributed to eligible 2021 ACVS SAS residency program directors. Respondents provided program information and Phase I and Phase II board examination pass rate data from 2017 to 2021. Programs were grouped based on overall combined board examination pass rates as “excellent” (≥90%) versus “adequate” (<90%). Data were analyzed using recursive partitioning.

Results

Responses from 36 ACVS SAS residency programs (18 private practice [PP], 18 academic programs [AP]) were included. Pass rates were considered “excellent” for 17/36 programs (11/17 AP, 6/17 PP). The strongest indicator of “excellent” programs was most mentors participating in rounds >75% of the time. Of those, the second indicator of “excellent” programs was a soft tissue caseload of <7 surgeries/resident/week. If the soft tissue caseload was >7 surgeries/resident/week, a high orthopedic caseload (>9 surgeries/resident/week) was indicative of “excellent” programs. If most mentors were not participating in rounds >75% of the time, APs were more likely to be “excellent.”

Conclusion

SAS APs may have higher ACVS board examination pass rates. Mentor involvement, caseload, and residency practice type may influence board examination pass rates.

Clinical impact

ACVS SAS residency programs' board examination pass rates may improve by optimizing mentor involvement and caseload regardless of practice type.
The discourse of ‘falling standards’ of English in Hong Kong
Authors: Sewell Andrew
Published: May 2024

The phenomenon of the ‘complaint tradition’, expressing the belief that language standards are deteriorating in some way, has had a long and vibrant existence in discussions of English in Hong Kong. The contribution of a Cultural Linguistics perspective here highlights the nature and significance of the cultural conceptualisations of language, for example, those that are revealed by the use of metaphor. The article begins with an overview of the discourse in Hong Kong, based on a corpus of media articles. The discourse structure and content of the articles, including their metaphorical aspects, are then analysed in more detail. To help understand the persistence of the discourse I draw on the insight that metaphors constitute ‘mini‐narratives’ which construct identities and identity boundaries. The discussion considers how the prevailing conceptualisations of English—some general, and others more culturally specific—serve to reproduce dominant, standardising views and inhibit the acceptance of local variation.