bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid species‐level hemolymph color test for all life stages of Nipaecoccus viridis (Newstead) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), an invasive and regulatory pest in the United States
Authors: Ahmed Muhammad Z. , Deeter Lily
Published: February 2022

Slide‐mounting is mandatory for accurate morphological identification of mealybug species (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae). A typical slide‐mounting process is performed in laboratory settings and requires several tedious and technical steps that can take up to 2 hr. Moreover, most of the taxonomic literature on mealybugs is based on adult females, whereas it can be difficult to find adult females in good condition in field samples. We tested 2,635 specimens of 57 mealybug species from 26 genera of Pseudococcidae collected from all over Florida for two consecutive years to discover an alternative to slide‐mounting specimens of Nipaecoccus viridis (Newstead), an emerging polyphagous pest of regulatory concern in the United States, now known to occur in Florida. Recent exceptionally high infestations in commercial citrus‐growing areas have activated regulatory agencies to implement quarantine and regulatory measures in efforts to halt its further spread within and outside of Florida. A 5‐min haemolymph colour test of eggs, immatures and adults is species‐specific to N. viridis. This test will allow for the identification of all life stages even when an adult female is not available. We discuss implementing this test in the field to help growers, researchers and regulators make preliminary identifications.
Flood risk management and governance: A bibliometric review of the literature
Authors: Dordi Truzaar , Henstra Daniel , Thistlethwaite Jason
Published: February 2022

The study of flood management has experienced a paradigmatic shift over the past two decades. Particularly notable are the embracement of flood risk management (FRM) and comparative analysis of flood risk governance (FRG), meaning the complex institutional arrangements that shape the behavior of state and societal actors concerning FRM. Thousands of publications have addressed these themes, and this field of study is ripe for a systematic analysis that consolidates and structures this rapidly evolving literature. This study employed a bibliometric methodology to analyze the metadata (including authorship, keywords, abstracts, and citations) of 3059 such publications. The results reveal that both FRM and FRG scholarship have expanded over the past two decades; the United Kingdom and the Netherlands are the most prominent countries of origin, a small number of prolific authors stands out as major contributors, and a relatively small number of journals dominate as publication venues. The text mining results reveal that the bodies of FRM and FRG scholarship are highly correlated but yet differ in core subject matter, as demonstrated by the unique keywords found in the analysis. The findings are useful for researchers seeking relevant clusters for study and therefore offers reference value for future research and practice.
Increase in the incidence of acute inflammatory reactions to injectable fillers during COVID‐19 era
Authors: Kato Kiyoko , Inoue Eiko , Tanaka Sakae , Kawamoto Hiroshi
Published: February 2022

Background

Acute inflammatory reactions (AIRs) are a rare complication following esthetic treatment with hyaluronic acid (HA) and/or human collagen fillers. However, a substantial increase in the frequency of AIRs was observed in the first author's clinic since May 2020.

Aims

To report AIR cases, we experienced and discuss potential underlying mechanisms.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of patients representing AIR symptoms following filler injection with HA or human collagen in our clinic.

Results

Although only one case of an AIR with an incidence rate of 0.01% was recorded following filler treatment between September 2008 and April 2020 in our clinic, we observed 14 AIR cases without anaphylaxis, with an incidence rate of 1.18% between May 2020 and June 2021, in line with the spreading of the new coronavirus pandemic. All cases were females aged 40–57 years, and the time of onset was within hours after filler injection. Three patients had been treated with HA fillers only, 2 with HA plus human collagen, and 9 with human collagen only. Most patients had been treated with these products in the past. Nine patients were treated with oral prednisolone. In all cases, symptoms resolved entirely within a week without sequelae.

Conclusions

The marked increase in AIRs coincided with the COVID‐19 pandemic. Possible explanations include immune system alterations caused by extensive changes in domestic and personal hygiene, prolonged and elevated stress levels, and subclinical COVID‐19 infection. Further studies may be warranted.
Intravaginal misoprostol versus uterine curettage for missed abortion: A cost‐effectiveness analysis
Authors: Torres‐Miranda María Dolores , Duro Gómez Jorge , Peña Lobo‐Gonçalves Sonja , De la Torre González Antonio Jesús , Castelo‐Branco Camil
Published: February 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of a strategy based on direct‐acting uterine curettage (UC) versus a pre‐direct‐acting misoprostol (1600 mg) in patients with missed abortion (MA), from the perspective of a National Health System.

Methods

An open prospective cohort study was carried out at Reina Sofía University Hospital (Córdoba, Spain) from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2019 in 180 patients diagnosed with MA. The patients chose medical treatment with intravaginal misoprostol (800 μg/4 h) or UC after receiving complete and detailed information. The effectiveness, clinical characteristics of the patients, costs of treating and managing the disease, and satisfaction with the procedures were recorded.

Results

One hundred and forty‐five patients (80.6%) chose misoprostol versus 35 patients (19.4%) who chose UC. The effectiveness of misoprostol has been 42% evaluated at 48 h; UC success rate has been 100%. The incidence of side effects is significantly higher in patients treated with misoprostol (p < 0.05); as well as the number of care received by the patient (p < 0.05). Satisfaction is higher in patients treated with UC (p < 0.05). However, the cost is almost 5‐folds higher in patients treated with UC (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

UC has a higher success rate, greater satisfaction, and a lower incidence of side effects, although significantly increases the cost compared to misoprostol in MA.
Threatened abortion, threatened premature labor, and preterm birth during the first state of emergency for COVID‐19 in 2020 in Japan
Authors: Okawa Sumiyo , Hosokawa Yoshihiko , Nanishi Keiko , Zaitsu Masayoshi , Tabuchi Takahiro
Published: February 2022

Aim

This study examined the maternal experience of threatened abortion, threatened premature labor, or preterm birth before, during, and after the first state of emergency for COVID‐19 in 2020 in Japan.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional, internet‐based questionnaire survey. We recruited 600 postpartum women and divided them into three groups by date of delivery: before (October 2019–March 2020), during (April–May 2020), and after (June–October 2020) the first state of emergency. The outcome was the presence of at least one of the following complications: threatened abortion, threatened premature labor, and/or preterm birth. The prevalence ratios (PRs) of the outcome were calculated and compared among the three groups using a multivariable Poisson regression model with adjustment for potential confounders.

Results

Of the 553 women eligible for analysis, those who delivered during (PR 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.47–0.99) and after (PR 0.62, 95% CI 0.42–0.90) the state of emergency were less likely to have experienced either threatened abortion, threatened premature labor, or preterm birth than those who delivered before the state of emergency. Among the adjustment variables, smoking at the time of survey (PR 1.68, 95% CI 1.01–2.80) and living in the prefectures with a population of >5 million (PR 0.71, 95% CI 0.51–0.97) were associated with the study outcome.

Conclusion

Threatened abortion, threatened premature labor, or preterm birth appeared to decrease during and after the first state of emergency in 2020. The longitudinal effects of coronavirus disease on maternal and newborn health should be monitored continuously.
The Aura of the Local in Chinese Anthropology: Grammars, Media and Institutions of Attention Management
Authors: Steinmüller Hans
Published: February 2022

Since the late Qing dynasty, Chinese scholars have confronted the challenges of indigenisation: what are the limits of (Western) universalism, and how can social science, history, and anthropology become ‘Chinese’? This article deals with a series of Chinese ‘native anthropologies’, from Republican‐era outlines of ethnology and anthropology, to current anthropologies of history, urban experience, and immorality. Rather than an assessment of the merits and flaws of indigenisation in these debates, I analyse the social practices of attention management that decided which scholars and texts became influential, and which ones were ignored. These practices of attention management include the grammars, media, and institutions, within which interaction networks were established and scholarly communities formed. What held the attention of many fellow anthropologists was the aura of the local conveyed: a sense of incommensurability based on the unlikely identification of the anthropologist with the subject of study and with the intended reader. The aura of the local, I argue, appeared precisely when new grammars (such as empiricism and social theory), media (e.g. academic journals, books), and institutions (universities, government offices) made it increasingly difficult for anthropologists to construct shared understandings with the people they studied and the readers they wrote for.
Prevalence of tooth grinding in children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kammer Pedro Vitali , Moro Juliana Silva , Soares Josiane Pezzini , Massignan Carla , Phadraig Caoimhin Mac Giolla , Bolan Michele
Published: February 2022

Aim

To conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis on the prevalence of tooth grinding and/or clenching (TGC) in children and adolescents with a neurodevelopmental disorder or other developmental condition.

Methods

A search was performed in seven databases, two sources of grey literature and reference lists of included studies. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data. We used random‐effects models with Freeman–Tukey double arcsine transformation for the meta‐analyses.

Results

After selection, 77 of the 2240 studies met inclusion criteria and were categorised by disability and type of TGC (reported, clinically observed and definitive). The pooled prevalence of reported TGC in individuals with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder was 57.6% (95% CI [confidence interval]: 49.5–65.6), 50.4% (95% CI: 35.5–65.4) in individuals with autism spectrum disorder, 67% (95% CI: 59.2–74.8) in cerebral palsy and 68.2% (95% CI: 59.8–76.6) in Down syndrome. Pooled prevalence of clinically observed TGC was 57.5% (95% CI: 31.6–83.4) in autism spectrum disorder and 71.9% (95% CI: 52.4–91.4) in cerebral palsy. Individuals with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder presented 39.8% (95% CI: 24–55.6) of definitive TGC.

Conclusion

Prevalence of reported, clinically observed, and definitive TGC varies according to disabilities, although due to high heterogeneity the result should be interpreted with caution. Variations exist mainly due to sampling bias and the use of non‐validated methods to assess TGC. CRD42020212640.
Immunohistochemical analysis of pyroptosis‐related protein expression in IgG4‐related sialadenitis
Authors: Pu Jiao , Jia Mengying , Shi Wei , Hu Lulu , Wang Fang , Niu Yaqi , Tong Qiaoying , Gong Zhongcheng
Published: February 2022

Background

NLRP3 (NOD‐, LRR‐ and pyrin domain‐containing protein 3)‐induced pyroptosis is involved in the development of a variety of autoimmune diseases, but its role in IgG4‐related sialadenitis (IgG4‐RS) is unclear.

Methods

Salivary gland tissues from 19 patients with IgG4‐RS were designated the experimental group, and peritumoral tissues from 20 patients with benign salivary gland tumours were designated the control group. The cell morphology and fibrosis in the IgG4‐RS samples were observed by haematoxylin‐eosin (H&E) and Masson trichrome (MT) staining. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was used to determine pyroptosis‐related proteins (NLRP3, ASC (apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a CARD), Caspase‐1, GSDMD (gasdermin family members, including digestive dermatin D), interleukin 1β (IL‐1β), and interleukin 18 (IL‐18)) expression levels.

Results

Increased lymphoid follicle proliferation, germinal centre plasma cell infiltration, and irregular fibrosis were observed in the experimental group compared with the control group. The NLRP3, ASC, Caspase‐1, GSDMD, IL‐1β, and IL‐18 levels were significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

This study suggested that pyroptosis‐related proteins might be involved in IgG4‐RS pathogenesis. However, the specific cellular pathway involved and whether multiple cell death pathways contribute to the occurrence of IgG4‐RS still need to be further studied.
Centralised pathology service for sentinel node biopsy in oral cavity cancer: The Southeast England Consortium experience
Authors: Patel Helina N. , Bowe Conor , Garg Montey , Tighe David , Gulati Aakshay , Norris Paul , Kerawala Cyrus , McGurk Mark , Bisase Brian , Thavaraj Selvam , Schilling Clare
Published: February 2022

Background

Sentinel lymph node biopsy is an increasingly recognised option for accurate staging and subsequent management of the clinically negative neck in early stage oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma. However, the technique is currently underused due to several logistic constraints including increased burden on pathology services. Here, we describe the feasibility of an outsourced centralised pathology processing and reporting service for sentinel lymph node biopsies in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma.

Patients and methods

The Southeast England Consortium comprises four surgical centres utilising a central pathology service. Consecutive cases between January 2016 and February 2020 were retrospectively evaluated for survival outcomes and laboratory turnaround times.

Results

Twenty‐eight per cent from a cohort of 139 patients had positive sentinel nodes. There was a trend towards greater overall, disease‐free and disease‐specific survival (OS, DFS and DSS, respectively) in sentinel node negative compared to sentinel node positive patients, but these differences were not statistically significant. The sensitivity, negative predictive value and false negative rate were 92.8%, 97.0% and 6.8%, respectively. The mean and mode laboratory TAT were 5 and 4 working days, respectively.

Conclusion

An outsourced centralised pathology service is a feasible option to widen the availability of sentinel node biopsy in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma.
Neurological complications in Egyptian children with nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Sharaf Mohammad A , Mohammed Maha Z
Published: February 2022

Aim

This study aimed at describing the incidence, risk factors and outcomes for neurological manifestations in Egyptian children with nephrotic syndrome (NS) and determining correctable factors that could lower the risk for these complications.

Methods

The medical records of all children with NS who presented to Nephrology clinic, Ain Shams University Children hospital (a tertiary hospital) from April 2018 to April 2020 were reviewed retrospectively for the clinical progression of NS with special emphasis on neurological manifestations, contributory risk factors and outcomes.

Results

Among 67 children with NS, 13 children had neurological events. Seven patients had posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), four patients suffered from cerebral sinovenous thrombosis (CSVT) and two patients presented with arterial strokes. Hypertension was significantly higher in patients with NS and neurological manifestations (NS/N+) when compared to patients with NS without neurological manifestations (NS/N−) (76.9% vs. 40.7%; P = 0.019). NS/N+ group had significantly higher levels of triglycerides and cholesterol (209.7 ± 41.4 and 323.6 ± 40.7 in NS/N+ vs. 181.96 ± 31.8 and 243.8 ± 38.8 in NS/N−). Prothrombotic tendency was significantly higher in NS/N+ group as compared to NS/N− group. All patients recovered totally except patients with arterial strokes who had residual hemiparesis.

Conclusion

Neurological complications in form of PRES, CSVT and arterial strokes were detected in children with NS. The outcome was favourable in most of the cases. Investment in parental education about the importance of follow up of blood pressure, dietary modification and good hydration could help in minimising the risk of patients with NS to develop neurological complications.
The impact of a multidisciplinary care package for vaccination in needle phobic children: An observational study
Authors: Doyle Rebecca , Donaldson Alex , Philips Leanne , Nelson Laurelle , Clark Julia E. , Wen Sophie Chien‐Hui
Published: February 2022

Aims

Children with severe needle phobia find vaccination extremely distressing and can remain unvaccinated, which puts them at an increased risk of contracting and transmitting vaccine preventable disease. Referral to a specialist or hospital service may occur when they cannot be safely vaccinated in the community, but engagement of allied health services can be inconsistent. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of a multidisciplinary, consumer‐oriented model of care on vaccinations for needle phobic children.

Methods

Needle phobic children aged between 6 and 16 years attended multidisciplinary consultation, as part of a care package, to assess previous experiences and determine the level of intervention that was required to support vaccination. A multidisciplinary case meeting followed this appointment and an individualised plan formulated for each patient. The main outcome of the project was rate of successful vaccination.

Results

The care package resulted in a successful vaccination rate of 83% (n = 20) with 69 vaccines administered across three clinics. Of those successful, 90% required multiple injections per visit. The majority of patients indicated moderate to high level of anxiety. Supportive care was escalated and de‐escalated as tolerated.

Conclusions

Results demonstrate the diversity of patients presenting with needle phobia and indicate an individualised, collaborative approach is preferable to a ‘one size fits all’ model of care. The study highlights a need for the development of guidelines that streamline the assessment and individualisation of procedural anxiety plans to meet patient needs and embed these processes into standard care.
Assessing a child or adolescent with low back pain is different to assessing an adult with low back pain
Authors: Pate Joshua W , Joslin Rhiannon , Hurtubise Karen , Anderson David B
Published: February 2022

In contrast to an assessment of an adult presenting with low back pain (LBP), clinicians should utilise different approaches when assessing children and adolescents presenting with LBP. Children are not ‘little adults’. There are some unique pathologies that only occur in this age group: (i) serious pathologies include infection, fracture, child abuse and malignancy; (ii) growth‐related pathologies include scoliosis, Scheuermann's disease, pars fracture and spondylolysis; and (iii) rheumatological conditions include juvenile idiopathic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. With changes in each child occurring physically, emotionally and socially, a clinician's knowledge of typical developmental milestones is essential to identify regression or delayed development. When listening to a child discuss their pain experience, a flexible structure should be implemented that gives the capacity to actively listen to a child's narrative (and that of their guardian) and to conduct an effective physical examination. This viewpoint also summarises the relationship between potential clinical diagnoses and key elements of a physical examination. Deciding on the type and timing of paediatric‐specific physical examination tests requires unique child‐centred considerations. Paediatric‐specific outcome measures should be used but implemented pragmatically, with consideration regarding the time, complexity and pathology suspected. Systematic and rigorous approaches to both treatment planning and re‐assessment are then proposed for the assessment of children and adolescents presenting with LBP.
The mental health and well‐being of adults with intellectual disability during theCOVID‐19 pandemic: A narrative review
Authors: Lunsky Yona , Jahoda Andrew , Navas Patricia , Campanella Sabrina , Havercamp Susan M.
Published: February 2022

Prior to the start of the pandemic, adults with intellectual disability (ID) were more likely to experience mental health difficulties and face barriers obtaining mental health care. COVID‐related public health restrictions, combined with heightened challenges to obtain timely mental health care, have served to worsen this situation internationally, with a combination of new onset conditions and worsening mental health for those already struggling. In this narrative review, we summarize literature on the mental health of adults with ID during the COVID‐19 pandemic to describe what is known based on clinician perceptions, existing administrative health data, family and staff perceptions, and self‐report. In addition to noting similarities and differences in findings based on the source of information, we also explored how experiences differed depending on where and when the research was conducted. Based primarily on research conducted during the first six months of the pandemic, there is a consistent finding across sources of increased anxiety, stress, and isolation. This review also explored the delivery of virtual mental health care and the impact of pandemic‐based mental health interventions. There have been very few research studies evaluating clinical care during this time but clinicians have managed to provide supports virtually, which has been evaluated positively by some individuals. This narrative review concludes by identifying gaps in the literature and suggests key directions for future mental health research, policy, and practice efforts. Any mental health efforts now and during pandemic recovery need to have an understanding of how the mental health needs and services for adults with ID have evolved over the course of the pandemic. Further research is needed on the impact of both clinical interventions and other nonclinical efforts on the mental health of people with ID.
Ethics framework and recommendations to support capabilities of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities during pandemics
Authors: Sullivan William F. , Björne Petra , Heng John , Northway Ruth
Published: February 2022

A growing body of knowledge highlights the negative impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the health and well‐being of many people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) and their caregivers. The underlying reasons are not only due to biomedical factors but also ethical issues. They stem from longstanding and pervasive structural injustices and negative social attitudes that continue to devalue people with IDD and that underlie certain clinical decisions and frameworks for public‐health policies during this pandemic. Unless these fundamental ethical shortcomings are addressed, pandemic responses will continue to undermine the human rights and well‐being of people with IDD. This paper proposes an ethics framing for policy and practices regarding clinical care and public health based on Martha Nussbaum's approach to Capability Theory. Such a framework can reorient healthcare professionals and healthcare systems to support the capabilities of people with IDD to protect, recover, and promote health and well‐being. It could be applied during this pandemic and in planning for future pandemics. The paper presents some practical recommendations that follow from applying this framework.
Cross‐Cultural Investigation in Differential Perceptions of Externalizing Symptoms
Authors: Watabe Yuko , Lee Steve K. , Matsuhashi Yuka
Published: February 2022

The current study examined cross‐cultural differences in perceptions of certain externalizing symptoms, such as those of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – hyperactivity impulsivity (ADHD‐HI) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM‐5). For this study, 39 American and 34 Japanese college students rated the acceptability of externalizing symptoms. The results showed cross‐cultural patterns of perceptions for externalizing symptoms. In terms of ADHD‐HI symptoms, Americans were less accepting of “often interrupts or intrudes on others” and “often has difficulty awaiting his or her turn” while Japanese individuals were less accepting of “often fidgets with or taps hands or feet or squirms in seat” and “often on the go, acting as if driven by motor.” For ODD symptoms, Americans were less accepting of “often blames others,” “often actively defies or refuses to comply with request,” “is often angry and resentful,” “often loses temper,” and “often deliberately annoys others.” This study showed the possible perceptual differences of symptoms between Japanese and American populations, which may be the first step in testing the nonequivalence of DSM‐5 constructs of externalizing disorders.
Evaluation of the impact of UV radiation on rheological and textural properties of food
Authors: Pandiselvam Ravi , Barut Gök Sıla , Yüksel Ayşe Nur , Tekgül Yeliz , Çalişkan Koç Gülşah , Kothakota Anjineyulu
Published: February 2022

Demand for healthy, safe, and high‐quality foods and disadvantages of thermal processing methods such as quality losses supported the improvement of the novel, affordable, and quick nonthermal food preservation techniques such as UV light. UV‐C light (200–280 nm) radiation is an emerging technology for the disinfection of pathogen microorganisms, increasing the shelf life of foods, and used for pasteurization, surface sterilization, cleaning of equipment and water, and so on. Sensory perceptions of foods are effective on the consumer choice, acceptability, and consumption of foods. Rheology term, which also includes texture and mouthfeel, is primarily important for sensory perception, processing of foods, and shelf stability. Therefore, the determination of the effect of different processing methods on the textural and rheological properties of the food products is important. Rheological and textural changes generally occur in the surface of UV‐C‐irradiated samples due to the low penetration of UV‐C light. The UV light treatment may cause internal disruption of cell membranes, which in turn cause loss of turgidity, weaken the cell walls, and contraction of tissues, which are related to the changes in the textural and rheological properties of foods. The present review focuses on the effect of UV‐C radiation on the rheology and textural properties of food products.
A novel transcriptional activation mechanism of inulinase gene in Kluyveromyces marxianus involving a glycolysis regulator KmGcr1p with unique and functional Q‐rich repeats
Authors: Li Fengyi , Wang Mengqi , Chi Zhe , Zhang Zhaoxuan , Wang Xiaoxiang , Xing Mengdan , Chi Zhenming , Liu Guanglei
Published: February 2022

Kluyveromyces marxianus is the most suitable fungus for inulinase industrial production. However, the underlying transcriptional activation mechanism of the inulinase gene (INU1) is hitherto unclear. Here, we undertook genetic and biochemical analyses to elucidate that a glycolysis regulator KmGcr1p with unique Q‐rich repeats is the key transcriptional activator of INU1. We determined that INU1 and glycolytic genes share similar transcriptional activation patterns and that inulinase activity is induced by fermentable carbon sources including the hydrolysis products of inulin (fructose and glucose), which suggests a novel model of product feedback activation. Furthermore, all four CT‐boxes in the INU1 promoter are important for KmGcr1p DNA‐binding in vitro, but the most downstream CT‐box 1 primarily confers upstream activating sequence activity in vivo. More intriguingly, the use of artificial and natural GCR1 mutants suggests that the Q‐rich repeats act as a functional module to maintain KmGcr1p transcriptional activity by contributing to its solubility and DNA‐binding affinity. Altogether, this study uncovers a novel transcriptional activation mechanism for the inulinase gene, that is different from the previous understanding for filamentous fungi, but might have universal significance among inulinase‐producing yeasts, thereby leading to a better understanding of the regulation mechanism of yeast inulinase genes.
An unknown protein influences maize yield via sugar and auxin
Authors: Cowling Craig L. , Kelley Dior R.
Published: February 2022

This article is a Commentary on Luo et al. (2022), 234: 513–526.
A crucial role for a node‐localized transporter, HvSPDT, in loading phosphorus into barley grains
Authors: Gu Mian , Huang Hengliang , Hisano Hiroshi , Ding Guangda , Huang Sheng , Mitani‐Ueno Namiki , Yokosho Kengo , Sato Kazuhiro , Yamaji Naoki , Ma Jian Feng
Published: February 2022

Grains are the major sink of phosphorus (P) in cereal crops, accounting for 60–85% of total plant P, but the mechanisms underlying P loading into the grains are poorly understood.

We functionally characterized a transporter gene required for the distribution of P to the grains in barley (Hordeum vulgare), HvSPDT (SULTR‐like phosphorus distribution transporter).

HvSPDT encoded a plasma membrane‐localized Pi/H+ cotransporter. It was mainly expressed in the nodes at both the vegetative and reproductive stages. Furthermore, its expression was induced by inorganic phosphate (Pi) deficiency. In the nodes, HvSPDT was expressed in both the xylem and phloem region of enlarged and diffuse vascular bundles. Knockout of HvSPDT decreased the distribution of P to new leaves, but increased the distribution to old leaves at the vegetative growth stage under low P supply. However, knockout of HvSPDT did not alter the redistribution of P from old to young organs. At the reproductive stage, knockout of HvSPDT significantly decreased P allocation to the grains, resulting in a considerable reduction in grain yield, especially under P‐limited conditions.

Our results indicate that node‐based HvSPDT plays a crucial role in loading P into barley grains through preferentially distributing P from the xylem and further to the phloem.
Simulating environmentally‐sensitive tree recruitment in vegetation demographic models
Authors: Hanbury‐Brown Adam R. , Powell Thomas L. , Muller‐Landau Helene C. , Wright S. Joseph , Kueppers Lara M.
Published: February 2022

Vegetation demographic models (VDMs) endeavor to predict how global forests will respond to climate change. This requires simulating which trees, if any, are able to recruit under changing environmental conditions. We present a new recruitment scheme for VDMs in which functional‐type‐specific recruitment rates are sensitive to light, soil moisture and the productivity of reproductive trees.

We evaluate the scheme by predicting tree recruitment for four tropical tree functional types under varying meteorology and canopy structure at Barro Colorado Island, Panama. We compare predictions to those of a current VDM, quantitative observations and ecological expectations.

We find that the scheme improves the magnitude and rank order of recruitment rates among functional types and captures recruitment limitations in response to variable understory light, soil moisture and precipitation regimes.

Our results indicate that adopting this framework will improve VDM capacity to predict functional‐type‐specific tree recruitment in response to climate change, thereby improving predictions of future forest distribution, composition and function.
Multiple micronutrient supplements versus iron‐folic acid supplements and maternal anemia outcomes: an iron dose analysis
Authors: Gomes Filomena , Agustina Rina , Black Robert E. , Christian Parul , Dewey Kathryn G. , Kraemer Klaus , Shankar Anuraj H. , Smith Emily R. , Thorne‐Lyman Andrew , Tumilowicz Alison , Bourassa Megan W.
Published: February 2022

Antenatal multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) are more effective than iron and folic acid (IFA) supplements in reducing adverse pregnancy outcomes. Questions remain, however, about the ability of MMS to prevent anemia as effectively as IFA, especially at a lower dose of daily iron and in areas of high anemia prevalence. Analyzing data from 11 trials from a recent Cochrane review, we compared MMS to IFA, delivering either 30 or 60 mg of iron, in sustaining hemoglobin and preventing third trimester anemia and iron deficiency anemia (IDA), accounting for daily iron dose, total supplemental iron intake, and baseline prevalence of anemia. There were no differences between MMS and IFA in third trimester hemoglobin concentration or risks of anemia or IDA by iron dose or total supplemental iron consumed. MMS providing 30 mg of iron was comparable to IFA with 60 mg of iron: mean hemoglobin difference of −0.26 g/L (95% CI: −1.41 to 0.89), risk ratios of 0.99 (95% CI: 0.92–1.07) for anemia, and 1.31 (95% CI: 0.66–2.60) for IDA. Baseline prevalence of anemia did not explain heterogeneity in findings. Compared to IFA, MMS results in comparable hemoglobin concentration and protection against anemia during pregnancy, independently of iron dose.
A bias toward the unknown: individual and environmental factors influencing exploratory behavior
Authors: Petzke Tara M. , Schomaker Judith
Published: February 2022

With limited resources, exploring new opportunities is crucial for survival. Exploring novel options, however, comes at the cost of uncertainty. Therefore, there is a trade‐off between exploiting options with a known beneficial outcome and exploring novel options with a potentially higher gain. Computational models have suggested that novelty may promote exploratory behavior by inducing a so‐called novelty bonus through reward‐related processes. So far, few studies have provided behavioral evidence for such a novelty bonus. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether spatial novelty can stimulate exploratory behavior (Experiment 1), and whether age, novelty‐seeking, and reduced action radius or social interactions due to COVID‐19 restrictions influenced the exploration–exploitation trade‐off (Experiment 2). In both experiments, we employed a novel paradigm in which participants made binary decisions between food items, while on rare trials, a surprise option was presented. Results from Experiment 1 are in line with a novelty bonus, with spatial novelty promoting exploratory behavior. In Experiment 2, we found that exploratory behavior declined with age, high novelty seekers made more exploratory choices than low novelty seekers, and participants with a smaller action radius made fewer exploratory choices. These findings are consistent with previous findings in animals and predictions from computational models.
Streptococcus mutans cell division protein FtsZ has higher GTPase and polymerization activities in acidic environment
Authors: Chen Yuxing , Li Yongliang , Yuan Chongyang , Liu Shujun , Xin Fengjiao , Deng Xuliang , Wang Xiaoyan
Published: February 2022

The acid tolerance of Streptococcus mutans plays an important role in its cariogenic process. Streptococcus mutans initiates a powerful transcriptional and physiological adaptation mechanism, eventually shielding the cellular machinery from acid damage and contributing to bacterial survival under acidic stress conditions. Although S. mutans contains complex regulatory systems, existing studies have shown that S. mutans, unlike Escherichia coli, cannot maintain a neutral intracellular environment. As the pH of the extracellular environment decreases, the intracellular pH decreases in parallel. There is insufficient knowledge regarding the acid resistance of the intracellular proteins of S. mutans, particularly when it comes to the key cytoskeletal division protein FtsZ. In this study, the data showed that S. mutans had similar cell division progress in acidic and neutral environments. The splitting position was in the middle of cells, and the cytoplasm was divided evenly in the acidic environment. Additionally, the tread milling velocity of S. mutans FtsZ in the middle of cells was not affected by the acidic environment. Streptococcus mutans FtsZ had higher GTPase activity in pH 6.0 buffer than in the neutral environment. Furthermore, the polymerization of S. mutans FtsZ in the acidic environment was more robust than that in the neutral environment. After two particular amino acids of S. mutans, FtsZ amino acids were mutated (E88K, L269K), the polymerization of S. mutans FtsZ in the acidic environment was significantly reduced. Overall, S. mutans FtsZ exhibited higher functional activity in pH 6.0 buffer in vitro. The acid resistance of S. mutans FtsZ is affected by its particular amino acids.
Altered expression of ferroptosis markers and iron metabolism reveals a potential role of ferroptosis in vitiligo
Authors: Wu Xiuyi , Jin Shanglin , Yang Yiwen , Lu Xiaoli , Dai Xiaoxi , Xu Zhongyi , Zhang Chengfeng , Xiang Leihong Flora
Published: February 2022

Oxidative stress is one of the triggering factors for vitiligo, which leads to melanocyte (MC) destruction in vitiligo lesions. Ferroptosis, which is characterized by iron‐dependent increase in oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, has been widely explored in numerous diseases, whereas whether ferroptosis plays a role in MC loss of vitiligo remains to be elucidated. Quantitative real‐time PCR and western blot analysis were used to determine the expression of ferroptosis markers in vitiligo patients. Immunonephelometry and electrochemiluminescence were performed to analyze iron status. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), Fe2+, and lipid ROS were assessed by flow cytometry. The expression of ferroptosis markers was significantly altered in the epidermis of vitiligo patients. Iron deficiency was revealed in the blood of patients. Erastin reduced cell viability and led to oxidative stress, iron overload as well as lipid peroxide accumulation in human epidermal MCs in vitro. Altered expression of ferroptosis markers and inhibition of melanin synthesis in MCs were induced by erastin, which was attenuated by N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC) pretreatment or post‐treatment in vitro. In conclusion, ferroptosis might take place during the process of vitiligo. Erastin could induce ferroptosis in human epidermal MCs and NAC could protect MCs from ferroptosis in vitro.
Establishment and characterization of an immortalized human giant congenital melanocytic nevi cell line
Authors: Yu Qingxiong , Aimaier Rehanguli , Chung Man‐Hon , Cui Xiwei , Li Yuehua , Wang Zhichao , Li Qingfeng
Published: February 2022

Treatments for giant congenital melanocytic nevi (GCMN) are extremely limited. Thus, there is an urgent need for development of relevant targeted therapies. However, current lack of preclinical cell models restricts progress in GCMN research. In this study, we aimed to establish and characterize an immortalized GCMN cell line. GCMN cells were successfully immortalized by means of lentivirus‐mediated simian virus 40 large T transfection. The immortalized GNC cell line (ImGNC) showed lower proliferation rate and higher melanin content than primary melanocytes. Expression levels of the differentiation gene MITF and stemness genes TWIST1, SNAI1, and FOXD3 were elevated in ImGNCs; however, the established ImGNC cell line was immortalized but not transformed. Sanger sequencing detected the heterozygous NRASQ61K mutation in ImGNCs, but not the BRAFV600E mutation. Despite carrying the NRASQ61K allele, ImGNCs demonstrated suppressed MAPK activation and elevated PI3K/Akt activation, as compared with primary melanocytes. Drug sensitivity analysis showed that ImGNCs are more sensitive to PI3K/Akt and Bcl‐2 inhibitors than to MEK or ERK inhibitors. Unlike the proliferation‐inhibiting effect of PI3K/Akt inhibitors, the Bcl‐2 inhibitor navitoclax promptly promoted apoptosis in ImGNCs. Considering the low proliferation characteristics of GCMN in vivo, Bcl‐2 may be a potential therapeutic target that warrants further research.
A case of non‐disseminated herpes zoster as the presenting sign of HIV in a 3‐year‐old
Authors: Xiao Teresa L. , Stein Sarah L.
Published: February 2022

Herpes zoster is rare in healthy and immunocompetent children. While disseminated presentations of zoster are often concerning for underlying immunodeficiency, non‐disseminated zoster can also be a presenting illness in such patients. Here, we report a case of non‐disseminated herpes zoster in a presumably healthy immunized child that led to a diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus infection.
Age separation and voluntary turnover: Asymmetric effects for collective turnover rates and individual turnover intentions depending on age
Authors: De Meulenaere Kim , Allen David G. , Kunze Florian
Published: February 2022

The aging population implies a wider age range within a workforce, increasing the risk of age diversity as separation (the clustering into age‐based subgroups), which is considered a turnover stimulator. We provide a new theoretical perspective to age diversity and turnover research, arguing that age separation may not only increase turnover through perceived age discrimination (i.e., a self‐categorization perspective), but can also reduce it through increased perceived belongingness (i.e., a social identity perspective). Following the idea of asymmetric diversity effects, we propose the workforce's average age as a crucial moderator. A longitudinal sample of 2,393 Belgian organizations (2012–2015) reveals that firm‐level age separation stimulates firm‐level collective voluntary turnover, but only in firms with an older average age (Study 1). Data from a representative sample of 4,764 employees from six European countries are consistent with the idea that perceived age separation stimulates aging workers’ turnover intention through increased perceived discrimination and reduced belongingness, and reduces younger workers’ turnover intention through increased belongingness (Study 2). These findings support that age diversity conceptualized as separation is not as unmistakably detrimental for turnover as previously assumed and affects younger and older employees and workforces differently. From a practical perspective, understanding the role of age in the age separation–turnover relationship may help organizations to prevent the loss of valuable knowledge through the departure of both older and younger employees.
Walking and foraging activity of Acromyrmex subterraneus molestans (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) at different temperatures
Authors: Ramirez‐Olier Johana P. , Sanches Jessica J. , Barbosa Júlia V. S. , Botero Liliana R. , Fourcassié Vincent , Zanuncio José Cola , Zanetti Ronald
Published: February 2022

Acromyrmex subterraneus molestans (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) is a leaf‐cutting ant species found in the Brazilian Cerrado and the Atlantic Forest and causes serious damages to cultivated plants. Knowledge about its foraging activity could help to improve the integrated pest management of this species and to better understand its ecology. The relationship between ambient temperature and the biomass collected by individuals of one Ac. subterraneus molestans colony was studied in the laboratory. The colony remained in an experimental room at 24°C and its foragers had access to an arena in an incubator set at six different temperatures (10, 16, 22, 28, 34 or 40°C). Fresh leaves of Hibiscus sp. were put in the arena and the flow of ants leaving and returning to the nest, the proportion of ants returning to the nest with a leaf fragment, as well as the dry mass of these fragments, were evaluated during 1 h for each temperature. The head width of foraging ants (laden and unladen) and their running speed were also measured. The rate of biomass collected was almost null at 10°C, increased from 16 to 34°C, and decreased abruptly at 40°C. The size of the workers did not vary across temperatures, and the running speed increased with increasing temperatures but more rapidly for unloaded ants than for loaded ones. The lower flow intensity at 28 and 40°C was somewhat compensated at the individual level by the selection of larger leaf fragments or by an increase in the probability to return loaded to the nest, respectively. The results obtained in this study could improve the management of these ants, allowing to target the most favourable meteorological conditions to apply toxic baits, increase the probability for the baits to be carried to the nest, in addition to reducing their availability to nontarget organisms. Furthermore, they could be used to make predictions on the effects of global warming on the foraging activity of this species.
Tools used in nursing education to assess attitudes about poverty: An integrative review
Authors: Neto Izabela Thaís de Magalhães , Silva Kênia Lara da , Guimarães Rayssa Assunção
Published: February 2022

Objective

To analyze the assessment of attitudes about poverty used in nursing education considering the first Sustainable Development Goal targets. Tools assessing attitudes about poverty have been used in nursing education studies to examine the beliefs of nursing students.

Design

An integrative literature review was carried out in five international databases in the areas of health and nursing and in four Latin American and Caribbean databases.

Results

Four tools were identified, with Attitude Toward Poverty Short Form and Attitudes about Poverty and Poor People being the most used in the studies. Items from tools measured attitudes negative, prejudiced, and stigmatizing about the population living in poverty. In addition, items from tools measured a range of concepts from poverty to social inequality and disenfranchisement.

Conclusion

The identification of poverty is a critical strategy for tackling poverty. In this sense, poverty assessment tools have the potential to recognize poverty as a multidimensional phenomenon.
Morbid Polarization: Exposure to COVID‐19 and Partisan Disagreement about Pandemic Response
Authors: Rodriguez Cristian G. , Gadarian Shana Kushner , Goodman Sara Wallace , Pepinsky Thomas B.
Published: February 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic has affected the lives of all Americans, but the severity of the pandemic has been experienced unevenly across space and time. Some states saw sharp rises in COVID‐19 cases in early March, whereas case counts rose much later in the rest of the country. In this article, we examine the relationship between exposure to COVID‐19 and citizens' views on what type of measures are required to deal with the crises and how experience with and exposure to COVID‐19 is associated with greater partisan polarization. We find consistent evidence of partisan divergence in pandemic‐response policy preferences across the first six months of the COVID‐19 pandemic: Republicans support national control measures whereas Democrats support welfare policies, and interparty differences grow over time. We find only limited evidence that exposure or experience moderates these partisan differences. Our findings are consistent with the view that Americans interpret the COVID‐19 pandemic in fundamentally partisan manner, and that objective pandemic conditions play at most a minor role in shaping mass preferences.