bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caregiver perceptions and experiences surrounding employment of their adult‐aged children on the autism spectrum
Authors: Wilson Kaitlyn P. , Marsack‐Topolewski Christina , Smith Dionne , Knollman Gregory
Published: August 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to explore and describe the experiences and perspectives of familial caregivers as active participants in the employment processes of their adult‐aged children on the autism spectrum.

Background

Many adults on the autism spectrum experience barriers to meaningful and lasting employment. Caregivers are often highly involved in their adult children's employment process; however, caregiver experiences are largely absent from the literature on employment for adults on the autism spectrum.

Method

This study used semistructured interviews to examine 51 caregivers' experiences and perceptions related to their adult children's employment process. Themes were derived using a phenomenological approach.

Results

Broad themes that emerged were (a) motivation for employment and independence, (b) variability of job training experiences, and (c) negative experiences surrounding employment. Additional subthemes are identified with representative quotations.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that caregivers play a key role in the employment process for many adults on the autism spectrum and that their experiences include positive feelings of support and motivation, as well as negative perceptions and interactions.

Implications

Understanding caregivers' experiences offers practitioners and policymakers insight into the needs of the families of individuals on the autism spectrum through a family system perspective. The results of this study have implications for policy and practice related to transition‐ and employment‐related training and supports.
Investigating effective yield surface of porous metals exhibit different hardening behaviors by cell models with randomly distributed spherical voids
Authors: Zhang Tairui , Lu Kai , Shang Xiandong , Xie Mingjiang
Published: August 2023

This study focuses on the development of effective yield surface of porous metals, which is characterized with the two constitutive parameters (i.e., q1 and q2) in the widely used Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman (GTN) model. It was found that the influence of q1 and q2 on the mechanical responses may be masked by adjusting the two failure parameters (fc and fF), yielding a set of GTN parameters deviated from the actual situation and leading to the errors in failure predictions. Therefore, the two constitutive parameters should be carefully calibrated according to the hardening behavior of matrix. Further investigations on the void density and distributions proved that cubic cells containing 100 randomly distributed non‐intersecting spherical voids are sufficient in characterizing the homogenization. On this basis, effective yield surface of porous metals with a wide range of void volume fractions (from 0.4% to 20%) was investigated, and a correlation between the constitutive parameters and the power‐law hardening behavior of matrix was established. Finally, experimental verifications were conducted on low alloy steel SA508, indicating the q1 and q2 from this study can yield more accurate mechanical response predictions then the previously suggested values.
Water level drawdown makes boreal peatland vegetation more responsive to weather conditions
Authors: Köster Egle , Chapman Jack P. B. , Barel Janna M. , Korrensalo Aino , Laine Anna M. , Vasander Harri T. , Tuittila Eeva‐Stiina
Published: August 2023

Climate warming and projected increase in summer droughts puts northern peatlands under pressure by subjecting them to a combination of gradual drying and extreme weather events. The combined effect of those on peatland functions is poorly known. Here, we studied the impact of long‐term water level drawdown (WLD) and contrasting weather conditions on leaf phenology and biomass production of ground level vegetation in boreal peatlands. Data were collected during two contrasting growing seasons from a WLD experiment including a rich and a poor fen and an ombrotrophic bog. Results showed that WLD had a strong effect on both leaf area development and biomass production, and these responses differed between peatland types. In the poor fen and the bog, WLD increased plant growth, while in the rich fen, WLD reduced the growth of ground level vegetation. Plant groups differed in their response, as WLD reduced the growth of graminoids, while shrubs and tree seedlings benefited from it. In addition, the vegetation adjusted to the lower WTs, was more responsive to short‐term climatic variations. The warmer summer resulted in a greater maximum and earlier peaking of leaf area index, and greater biomass production by vascular plants and Sphagnum mosses at WLD sites. In particular, graminoids benefitted from the warmer conditions. The change towards greater production in the WLD sites in general and during the warmer weather in particular, was related to the observed transition in plant functional type composition towards arboreal vegetation.
TRAF5 regulates intestinal mucosal Th1/Th17 cell immune responses via Runx1 in colitis mice
Authors: Li Mengting , Gan Caiqin , Zhang Runan , Wang Jiahui , Wang Youwei , Zhu Weining , Liu Lan , Shang Jian , Zhao Qiu
Published: August 2023

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic gastrointestinal inflammatory disease associated with CD4+ Th1 and Th17 cell immune responses. Tumour necrosis factor‐associated factor 5 (TRAF5) deficiency has been shown to aggravate DSS‐induced colitis. However, the potential role of TRAF5 in regulating CD4+ T cell immune responses in the pathogenesis of IBD remains unclear. TRAF5−/− CD4+CD45RBhigh T cells and WT CD4+CD45RBhigh T cells were transferred to Rag2−/− mice via intravenous (i.v.) tail injection, respectively, to establish a chronic colitis model. Adeno‐associated virus (AAV)‐mediated gene knockout technique was used to knock out runt‐associated transcription factor 1 (Runx1) expression in vivo. Specific cytokines of Th1 and Th17 cells were detected by quantitative RT‐PCR, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, and flow cytometry. In T‐cell transfer colitis mice, the Rag2−/− mice reconstituted with TRAF5−/− CD4+CD45RBhigh T cells showed more severe intestinal inflammation than the WT control group, which was characterised by increased expression of INF‐γ, TNF‐α, IL‐17a. Furthermore, we found that the INF‐γ+CD4+, IL17a+CD4+, and INF‐γ+ IL17a+CD4+ T cells in the intestinal mucosa of Rag2−/− mice reconstituted with TRAF5−/− CD4+CD45RBhigh T cells were significantly higher than those of the WT control group by flow cytometry. Mechanistically, knockout Runx1 inhibited the differentiation of TRAF5−/− CD4+ T cells into Th1 and Th17 cells in the intestinal mucosa of T‐cell transfer colitis mice. TRAF5 regulates Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation and immune response through Runx1 to participate in the pathogenesis of colitis. Thus targeting TRAF5 in CD4+ T cells may be a novel treatment for IBD.
Effects of immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) and their treatment on antitumor immune responses
Authors: Blum Steven M. , Rouhani Sherin J. , Sullivan Ryan J.
Published: August 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are potentially life‐saving cancer therapies that can trigger immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). irAEs can impact any organ and range in their presentation from mild side effects to life‐threatening complications. The relationship between irAEs and antitumor immune responses is nuanced and may depend on the irAE organ, the tumor histology, and the patient. While some irAEs likely represent an immune response against antigens shared between tumor cells and healthy tissues, other irAEs may be entirely unrelated to antitumor immune responses. Clinical observations suggest that low‐grade irAEs have a positive association with responses to ICIs, but the correlation between severe irAEs and clinical benefit is less clear. Currently, severe irAEs are typically treated by interrupting or permanently discontinuing ICI treatment and administering empirically selected systemic immunosuppressive agents. However, these interventions could potentially diminish the antitumor effects of ICIs. Efforts to understand the mechanistic relationship between irAEs and the tumor microenvironment have yielded meaningful insights and nominated therapeutic targets for irAE management that may preserve or even boost ICI efficacy. We explore the clinical and molecular relationship between irAEs and antitumor immunity as well as the role that irAE treatments may play in shaping antitumor immune responses.
Effect of local oxygen therapy combined with vacuum sealing drainage on the healing of stage IV sacrococcygeal pressure ulcers
Authors: Zhao Yi , Zhang Mi , Zhang Chuanlin , Yan Hongwei
Published: August 2023

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of local oxygen therapy combined with vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) on the healing of stage IV pressure ulcers sacrococcygeal. In this prospective study, we included a total of 98 patients with stage IV sacrococcygeal pressure ulcers in our hospital between February 2021 and June 2022. The patients enrolled were randomly and equally divided into two groups: the study group (undergoing local oxygen therapy combined with VSD treatment) and the control group (receiving conventional treatment). The wound healing time and hospital stay were compared between the two groups. Additionally, the wound area, tissue type, wound exudation and pain intensity were assessed before treatment, 10, 20, 30 and 40 days after treatment. The incidence of complications was also calculated. The study group demonstrated significantly shorter wound healing time and hospital stays compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Before treatment, there were no significant differences in terms of wound area, tissue type and wound exudation between the two groups (p > 0.05); after 10, 20, 30 and 40 days of treatment, however, evidently smaller wound areas, improved tissue types and reduced wound exudation were observed in the study group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the study group exhibited increased microvascular count compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Before treatment, there was no significant difference in pain intensity between the two groups (p > 0.05), whereas markedly lower pain intensity was seen in the study group than in the control group after 10, 20, 30 and 40 days of treatment (p < 0.05). The incidence of complications did not significantly differ between the two groups after 40 days of treatment (p > 0.05). Local oxygen therapy combined with VSD was found to effectively accelerate the healing process of stage IV sacrococcygeal pressure ulcers, leading to shorter hospital stays and improved patient prognosis. This combined therapy shows promise for widespread application in clinical practice.
Nurses' professional discretion in the purchaser‐provider split in home care in Norway
Authors: Brenne Bodil Aarmo , Hedlund Marianne , Ingstad Kari
Published: August 2023

Aim

To explore how nurses' professional discretion is operationalized in home care services that follow a purchaser–provider organization in Norway.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews with open‐ended questions were used, and data were collected from in‐depth interviews with 15 registered nurses working in home care in four Norwegian local authority areas between April and November 2020. Braun and Clark's six‐step analysis was used to analyse the empirical data.

Results

The analysis yielded two main themes, namely ‘The purchaser's instructions: facilitating and constraining care’ and ‘Professional discretion meets the purchaser–provider organisation of healthcare,’ with five associated codes.

Conclusion

Nurses are dependent on an organizational framework due to the complexity of health care services and the number of tasks involved. At the same time, they perform considerable compensatory work and need the ability to be flexible to enable this work and to perform actions related to the unforeseen needs of individual patients or those involving professional discretion.

Impact

The purchaser–provider model both facilitates and constrains nursing practice and professional responsibility in home nursing. Home nursing services need to be well organized because of their complexity and the wide variety of tasks they involve. In this context, the element of constraint is associated with the need for flexibility and professional discretion. Despite a strict framework, the nurses perform additional and compensatory tasks. Reforms inspired by ‘New Public Management,’ such as the purchaser–provider split, limit the workload for nurses; however, there is still a need to exercise discretion. The findings of this study may help home care managers and health policy‐makers understand the interaction between management logic and health care logic, leading to a more appropriate organization of health care services where the nurses, as actors, gain more trust.

Implications

This study highlights home care nurses' opportunities to exercise discretion in an organizational framework that strives towards standardization. The nurses' ability to exercise discretion is important for individual and holistic patient care. At the same time, an organizational framework is needed because nurses cannot attend to all the needs the patients may have, as this will overload both home health services and the nurses.
Pay inequality in organizations shapes pay‐based stereotypes
Authors: Tanjitpiyanond Porntida , Peters Kim , Jetten Jolanda
Published: August 2023

There is some evidence that organizations with higher pay inequality have more problematic social dynamics. The present research examines whether pay inequality introduces pay‐based intergroup dynamics and shapes the stereotypes of the highest‐ and lowest‐paid employees in the workplace. In two studies (a cross‐sectional survey N = 413, and an experiment N = 286), we found that greater pay inequality (actual or perceived) strengthened perceptions that the highest‐paid employees were assertive and the lowest‐paid were not. Indirect effects analysis suggested that this could be due, in part, to the increased tendency to perceive the highest and lowest‐paid employees as distinct social groups. We also found that greater pay inequality strengthened perceptions that the highest‐paid (but not the lowest‐paid) employees were immoral and unfriendly. Indirect effects analysis suggested this could be due, in part, to the increased tendency to assume that the highest and lowest‐paid employees have negative relations. Together, our research suggests that pay inequality shapes the dynamics and stereotypes of pay‐based groups in ways that could undermine organizational functioning.
From viral load to survival: Unveiling new genetic links for resistance against PMCV in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Mogahadam Hooman K. , Røsæg Magnus Vikan
Published: August 2023

The infectious agent piscine myocarditis virus (PMCV) causes cardiomyopathy syndrome (CMS) and is responsible for substantial mortality and economic losses in the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) farming industry. Previous research has demonstrated that breeding for resistance against PMCV is an effective approach to mitigate the disease's impact. In this study, a new quantitative trait locus (QTL) is described on chromosome 23, together with previously described QTLs on chromosomes 12 and 27. The findings are based on two genome‐wide association studies conducted on two different year‐classes of Atlantic salmon of the Rauma strain. In this study, we utilized data from an experimental challenge trial with the viral load as the phenotype and a field outbreak of CMS with survival data as the phenotype. The estimated SNP‐based heritability was 0.55 and 0.44 in the two studies, respectively. In the infection trial, the top associated SNP on chromosome 23 accounted for approximately 46% of the genetic and 25.53% of the phenotypic variations in the viral load. In the field outbreak, we identified a QTL on the same genomic region of chromosome 23. The most significantly associated marker on this chromosome explained 13.57% and 5.97% of the genetic and phenotypic variations. The QTL on chromosome 23 is in proximity to delta‐5 fatty acyl desaturase and fatty acid desaturase 2 genes, both of which play a role in the production of polyunsaturated fatty acids. This proximity is particularly interesting as it offers valuable insights into enhancing our understanding of resistance against PMCV.
First identification, molecular characterization, and pathogenicity assessment ofLactococcus garvieaeisolated from cultured pompano in Taiwan
Authors: Neupane Sandip , Rao Shreesha , Yan Wei‐Xiao , Wang Pei‐Chi , Chen Shih‐Chu
Published: August 2023

Lactococcosis, caused byLactococcus garvieae, is an acute hemorrhagic septicemia in fish recorded in marine and freshwater aquaculture during the summer months. In 2020–2021, several sea cage Pompano farms recorded sudden fish mortality events. Based on the results of phenotypic and biochemical tests,L. garvieaewas predicted to be the cause. PCR withL. garvieaespecific primers (pLG1 and pLG2) targeting the 16S rRNA region further confirmed the etiological agent asL. garvieaeafter amplifying an 1100 base pairs (bp) product. Furthermore, the 16S rRNA sequences of the two representative strains (AOD109‐196‐2B and AOD110‐215‐2B) shared 99.81% identity withL. garvieae(GenBank accession number: MT597707.1). The genetic profiles of the strains were classified using pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis after digestion withSmaI andApaI, which clustered our strains under the same pulsotype. Multiplex PCR targeting the capsule gene cluster and serotype‐specific PCR collectively showed that the strains were non‐capsulated; thus, they belonged to serotype I. An experimental infection was designed to fulfil Koch's postulates by infecting healthy Pompano with case‐drivenL. garvieaestrains (AOD109‐196‐2B and AOD110‐215‐2B) with a cumulative mortality of 70%. Overall,L. garvieaeinfection in Pompano emphasizes the need for better monitoring and control procedures in aquaculture settings.
Effect of Biokos, a natural lipopeptide surfactant extracted from a bacterium of the Pseudomonas genus, on infection of Cryptocaryon irritans
Authors: Watanabe Yuho , Hansen Jørgen , Kotake Maho , Fujii Ryotaro , Matsuoka Hiromi , Yoshinaga Tomoyoshi
Published: August 2023

Cryptocaryoniasis (marine white spot disease), caused by Cryptocaryon irritans, is a major threat to marine fish cultures in tropical and subtropical waters, and a serious nuisance to hobbyists with saltwater fish tanks. With only classical treatment schedules such as copper salts or hyposaline baths being available, control of the disease remains a challenge. In this study, we investigated the effect of Biokos, a viscosin‐like lipopeptide surfactant extracted from a bacterium of the Pseudomonas genus, on the external life stages of C. irritans, including theronts, protomonts and tomonts. The present study demonstrated that the compound has an antiparasitic effect on all tested external stages of the parasite. In particular, when Biokos was used at 48 mg/L, it was able to kill almost all theronts and protomonts within 1 h in in vitro experiments, and using the same concentration in an in vivo challenge experiment, the parasitic load was reduced by more than 95% compared to the control group with no Biokos. Additionally, cultured fish cells were able to proliferate, and fish showed no adverse signs at Biokos concentrations that were effective in killing the parasite. Thus, Biokos may be a promising way for preventing or reducing the burden of this parasitic disease in the future.
Cut‐off points for isometric handgrip and low limb explosive strength in relation to indicators of overweight/obesity in people with intellectual disabilities: analysis by age groups
Authors: Ferrero‐Hernández P. , Farías‐Valenzuela C. , Ferrari G. , Espoz‐Lazo S. , Álvarez‐Arangua S. , Valdivia‐Moral P.
Published: August 2023

Background

The prevalence of overweight/obesity has been increasing globally and in people with Intellectual Disabilities (IDs), this problem is exacerbated even more, which added to a low physical condition that contributes to the deterioration of functionality and increases the risk of developing chronic diseases in the course of life. Therefore, the aim of this study was to establish cut‐off points for levels of isometric handgrip and low limb explosive strength in children, adolescents and adults, which identify overweight/obesity in people with IDs and their respective associations.

Methods

The sample was made up of 131 individuals with IDs, belonging to four special and community educational centres in the city of Santiago, Chile. Body mass index (BMI) and waist‐to‐height ratio (WHR) were used as indicators of overweight/obesity. Handgrip strength was used as a measure of isometric strength, and countermovement jump was used as a measure of low limb explosive strength. For the comparison of variables by age group, the analysis of Ancova, Kruskal–Wallis and chi‐square tests were used. The total area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of isometric handgrip and low limb explosive strength was identified as an indicator of overweight/obesity according to age groups. A logistic regression model was used to quantify the effect that strength categories below the cut‐off point have on the risk of overweight and obesity.

Results

Significant differences were observed between the age groups for body weight, height, BMI and WHR, as well as in the levels of absolute handgrip strength and vertical jump with countermovement (P ≤ 0.05). Children showed the lowest cut‐off points for absolute and relative strength. The adolescent group showed the highest cut‐off points for relative strength and countermovement jump and adults showed the highest value for absolute strength as indicators of overweight/obesity. Different associations between cut‐off points with BMI and WHR were found.

Conclusions

Adolescents showed the highest cut‐off point for relative strength and countermovement jump, and adults showed the highest value for absolute strength, according to overweight/obesity indicators (BMI and WHR). It is suggested to adjust resistance training programmes according to age categories for the prevention of overweight/obesity in people with IDs.
Implementation and efficacy of knowledge translation frameworks in family focused nursing care: A scoping review
Authors: Østergaard Birte , Eggenberger Sandra , Sheppard‐Lemoine Debbie , Mulcaster Adam , Mahrer‐Imhof Romy
Published: August 2023

Aim

To provide an overview of the characteristics, variety and outcomes of knowledge translation (KT) strategies used in nursing care involving adult patients and their family members.

Background

The gap in providing family nursing practice could be due to a lack of explicit KT frameworks and understanding of ways to translate evidence‐based knowledge into clinical practice.

Design

A scoping review conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute.

Methods

The review is reported according to PRISMA‐ScR. Relevant studies were searched in MEDLINE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL Complete, ProQuest Nursing & Allied Health Premium, PsycINFO, Social Work Abstracts, Social Services Abstracts and Scopus. Grey literature was searched in ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. Search results were imported into the web‐based programme Covidence. Studies describing concepts of KT, strategies of implementation, involvement of families and nurses/family caregivers in adult health care and conducted within the last 15 years were included.

Results

Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Three studies used the KTA Framework to guide the implementation process. The remaining five studies used different frameworks/guidelines to translate a variety of family focused interventions into their clinical practice. Translation strategies were often targeted towards nurse education. Reported outcomes included nurses' attitudes towards and acceptance of involving families in health care. The outcomes were conceptualized and measured differently, showing inconclusive results on effectiveness on family focused care and family health.

Conclusion and Implications for Clinical Practice

The application of KT frameworks to implement evidence‐based family nursing into clinical practice is limited. The process of KT mainly targets at nurses' adoption of family focused interventions with limited information about short‐, intermediate‐ and long‐term efficacy on family health. Clinical leaders should consider time and resources needed to implement family focused care KT strategies before putting it into practice.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution. Data were obtained from other's literature.
A qualitative hermeneutical understanding of spiritual care in old age when living in a nursing home: The residents' voices
Authors: Rykkje Linda , Morland Marianne , Ferstad Kristin , Kuven Britt Moene
Published: August 2023

Aim

To explore and gain a broader understanding of residents' viewpoints and experiences of spiritual care when living in a nursing home.

Design

A qualitative hermeneutical interview study inspired by Gadamer's philosophical hermeneutics.

Methods

Thirty‐eight individual interviews of 14 male and 24 female residents; of these, 24 had a dementia diagnosis. The setting was one large Norwegian nursing home providing long‐term care. FACIT‐Sp‐12 was used as a guide for the interview, in addition to two open‐ended questions about thriving and spiritual care.

Findings

The older residents' voices portray a broad and diverse understanding of spiritual care, and four themes emerged: (1) Spiritual at‐homeness, (2) Spiritual awareness, (3) Philosophy of life and (4) Interconnectedness.

Conclusion

Accepting one's life situation in a nursing home can foster a feeling of belonging, leading to feeling more at‐home. Spiritual well‐being, including finding purpose, spiritual awareness and beliefs, was found to be interconnected with spiritual at‐homeness in the nursing home.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

This study provides insights into older nursing home residents' viewpoints on spiritual care, including persons living with dementia.

Impact

The study addressed the limited evidence regarding how older residents themselves experience and express spiritual care. Listening to older nursing home residents' voices provides a unique contribution to the research field. As several individuals with dementia contributed to the findings, this study mirrors the current population of residents in nursing homes. The findings may inform healthcare provision and policymakers and impact upon spiritual care in the field of older people nursing and dementia care services.

Reporting Method

The COREQ guideline.

Patient or Public Contribution

Participation through interviews of nursing home residents.
Associations between parental precarious work schedules and child behavior problems among low‐income families
Authors: Walther Anna K. , Pilarz Alejandra Ros
Published: August 2023

Objective

This study examined associations between parental precarious work schedules and child behavior problems among a sample of families with low incomes receiving child‐care subsidies and tested three hypothesized mediators of these associations: work–family conflict, economic insecurity, and child‐care instability.

Background

As “just‐in‐time,” or on‐call, scheduling practices become more prevalent among low‐paid workers, working parents must balance family demands with precarious work schedules characterized by instability, unpredictability, and lack of control. Precarious work schedules may threaten child well‐being by increasing parents' work–family conflict and stress, economic insecurity, and child‐care instability. Yet, few studies have been able to empirically test these relationships.

Method

This study uses data from a survey of child‐care subsidy recipients to test the associations between five dimensions of parental precarious work schedules—variable work hours and shifts, limited advance notice, unexpected schedule changes, and lack of schedule control—and child externalizing behavior problems via work–care conflict, economic insecurity, and child‐care instability. Analyses use Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression and decomposition methods and control for a host of child, parental, and household characteristics.

Results

Variable shifts were indirectly associated with more parent‐reported child behavior problems via work–care conflict, whereas unexpected schedule changes were indirectly associated with more behavior problems via both work–care conflict and material hardship.

Conclusion

These findings add to a growing evidence‐base on the incongruence between precarious employer‐driven scheduling practices and the needs of families with young children.
Singlet oxygen‐induced alteration of bacteria associated with phytodetritus: Effect of irradiance
Authors: Burot Christopher , Bonin Patricia , Simon Gwénola , Casalot Laurie , Rontani Jean‐François
Published: August 2023

Contrasting irradiation of senescent cells of the diatom Thalassiosira sp. in association with the bacterium Pseudomonas stutzeri showed the effect of intensity of irradiance on the transfer of singlet oxygen (1O2) to bacteria attached to phytoplanktonic cells. Under low irradiances, 1O2 is produced slowly, favors the oxidation of algal unsaturated lipids (photodynamic effect), and limits 1O2 transfer to attached bacteria. However, high irradiances induce a rapid and intense production of 1O2, which diffuses out of the chloroplasts and easily reaches the attached bacteria, where it efficiently oxidizes their unsaturated membrane components. Analysis of numerous sinking particle samples collected in different regions of the Canadian Arctic showed that the photooxidation state of attached bacteria increased from ice‐covered areas to open water, in agreement with in vitro results. Photooxidation of bacteria appeared to be particularly intense in sea ice, where the sympagic algae–bacteria association is maintained at relatively high irradiances for long periods of time.
La Niña‐related coral death triggers biodiversity loss of associated communities in the Galápagos
Authors: Rhoades O. Kennedy , Brandt Margarita , Witman Jon D.
Published: August 2023

During a cold La Niña period (August 2007–January 2008) in the central Galápagos archipelago, 70% of Pocillopora branching corals were severely bleached across three long‐term monitoring sites, affording an opportunity to examine its impact on the persistence of these corals and their associated community of fish and mobile macroinvertebrates. Using a time series empirical approach, we tagged and tracked the fate of 96 coral heads and their associates. When surveyed in July 2008, recovered live and dead corals that were previously severely bleached supported similar levels of species richness (randomized observed and estimated Chao 1). By contrast, richness on the surviving live corals remained fairly stable, while Chao 1 estimated richness on dead corals underwent a nearly 50% increase between July and January 2009, thereafter declining to 50% of originally surveyed richness by February 2010. This nonlinear change in species richness was largely due to an influx and decline in opportunistic generalists including pencil urchin bioeroders, gastropod snails, and hermit crabs that colonized dead corals and fed on sessile invertebrates and algae that had initially recruited to dead and undefended coral substrate. Thus, dead corals retained high overall species richness until live corals had recovered, after which richness declined as dead corals eroded and disintegrated (July 2011). Live corals attracted a less speciose but stable assemblage of mutualistic xanthid crabs and fishes that increased in abundance over time with the recovery and growth of live coral tissue. Overall, coral status (live/dead), planar area and maximum branch length predicted the number of species associated with each colony. The delayed diversity loss of associated species following La Niña disturbance to a foundation species represents a local extinction debt of 32–49‐month duration. A better understanding of the scale of extinction debt in foundational marine ecosystems is needed to quantify the breadth of impacts of climate oscillations on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
Holocentric repeat landscapes: From micro‐evolutionary patterns to macro‐evolutionary associations with karyotype evolution
Authors: Cornet Camille , Mora Pablo , Augustijnen Hannah , Nguyen Petr , Escudero Marcial , Lucek Kay
Published: August 2023

Repetitive elements can cause large‐scale chromosomal rearrangements, for example through ectopic recombination, potentially promoting reproductive isolation and speciation. Species with holocentric chromosomes, that lack a localized centromere, might be more likely to retain chromosomal rearrangements that lead to karyotype changes such as fusions and fissions. This is because chromosome segregation during cell division should be less affected than in organisms with a localized centromere. The relationships between repetitive elements and chromosomal rearrangements and how they may translate to patterns of speciation in holocentric organisms are though poorly understood. Here, we use a reference‐free approach based on low‐coverage short‐read sequencing data to characterize the repeat landscape of two independently evolved holocentric groups: Erebia butterflies and Carex sedges. We consider both micro‐ and macro‐evolutionary scales to investigate the repeat landscape differentiation between Erebia populations and the association between repeats and karyotype changes in a phylogenetic framework for both Erebia and Carex. At a micro‐evolutionary scale, we found population differentiation in repeat landscape that increases with overall intraspecific genetic differentiation among four Erebia species. At a macro‐evolutionary scale, we found indications for an association between repetitive elements and karyotype changes along both Erebia and Carex phylogenies. Altogether, our results suggest that repetitive elements are associated with the level of population differentiation and chromosomal rearrangements in holocentric clades and therefore likely play a role in adaptation and potentially species diversification.
Not your average firm: A quantile regression approach to firm‐level investment in the United States
Authors: Sündal Doğuhan
Published: August 2023

A significant portion of the work published on firm investment adapts models that operate on an “average firm” assumption, which is different from the investment behavior of a modal firm. This study employs a Bayesian quantile regression model to explore the investment rates in the United States and finds, first, that the firms with higher investment rates have a higher responsiveness to the valuation ratio and lower responsiveness to the profit rate, and, second, that there is a decline in the responsiveness of firm investment to these factors in recent years. The paper also emphasizes the role of autonomous investments in determining firm‐level investment rates, based on differing sectoral factors.
The insertion sequence excision enhancer: A PrimPol‐based primer invasion system for immobilizing transposon‐transmitted antibiotic resistance genes
Authors: Chandler Mick , Ross Karen , Varani Alessandro M.
Published: August 2023

Evolutionary studies often identify genes that have been exchanged between different organisms and the phrase Lateral or Horizontal Gene Transfer is often used in this context. However, they rarely provide any mechanistic information concerning how these gene transfers might have occurred. With the astonishing increase in the number of sequences in public databases over the past two or three decades, identical antibiotic resistance genes have been identified in many different sequence contexts. One explanation for this would be that genes are initially transmitted by transposons which have subsequently decayed and can no longer be detected. Here, we provide an overview of a protein, IEE (Insertion Sequence Excision Enhancer) observed to facilitate high‐frequency excision of IS629 from clinically important Escherichia coli O157:H7 and subsequently shown to affect a large class of bacterial insertion sequences which all transpose using the copy‐out‐paste‐in transposition mechanism. Excision depends on both IEE and transposase indicating association with the transposition process itself. We review genetic and biochemical data and propose that IEE immobilizes genes carried by compound transposons by removing the flanking insertion sequence (IS) copies. The biochemical activities of IEE as a primase with the capacity to recognize DNA microhomologies and the observation that its effect appears restricted to IS families which use copy‐out‐paste‐in transposition, suggests IS deletion occurs by abortive transposition involving strand switching (primer invasion) during the copy‐out step. This reinforces the proposal made for understanding the widespread phenomenon loss of ISApl1 flanking mcr‐1 in the compound transposon Tn6330 which we illustrate with a detailed model. This model also provides a convincing way to explain the high levels of IEE‐induced precise IS excision.
Prevalence of overweight and obesity and their effect on COVID‐19 severity and hospitalization among younger than 50 years versus older than 50 years population: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chenchula Santenna , Sharma Sushil , Tripathi Mukesh , Chavan Madhavrao , Misra Arup Kumar , Rangari Gaurav
Published: August 2023

Cohort studies have shown that both overweight and obesity have their impact by increasing hospitalization with COVID‐19. We conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed, Google Scholar, and MedRxiv databases following the PRISMA guidelines. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA software version 16 MP (Stata Corp, College Station, TX, USA) and Med Calc software version 22.009(Med Calc software Ltd, Ostend, Belgium). The primary outcome was to measure the prevalence of overweight and obesity and their impact on the risk of hospitalization among COVID‐19 patients under and above 50 years of age. In total, 184 studies involving 2,365,377 patients were included. The prevalence of overweight was highest among those younger than 50 years of age over those older than 50 years of age, (26.33% vs. 30.46%), but there was no difference in obesity (36.30% vs. 36.02%). Overall, the pooled prevalence of overweight and obesity among hospitalized COVID‐19 patients was 31.0% and 36.26%, respectively. Compared with normal weight, the odds of hospitalization with overweight (odds ratio [OR] 2.186, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.19, 3.99], p < 0.01) and obesity (OR 3.069, 95% CI [1.67, 5.61], p < 0.001) in those younger than 50 years and obesity (OR 3.977, 95% CI [2.75, 5.73], p < 0.001) in the older than 50 years age group were significantly high. The increased prevalence of overweight and obesity among the under 50 years age group and obesity among the older than 50 years age group significantly increased the rate of COVID‐19 infections, severity and hospitalization.
A retrospective study of alveolar bone remodelling after anterior retraction in orthodontic tooth extraction cases with clear aligners and fixed appliances
Authors: Guo Ziyu , Zhang Ruijie , Guo Changgang , Li Xin , Jin Zuolin , Liu Qian
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To evaluate alveolar bone dimensions and its relationship with tooth movement (retraction, intrusion and torque) during orthodontic treatment with fixed appliance and clear aligners.

Methods

Thirty‐two patients were included in this retrospective clinical study. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was collected before and after treatment to measure the volume of dehiscence and fenestrations in the maxillary anterior region, anterior alveolar bone thickness and height and degree of tooth movement. Rank‐sum tests were used to compare the differences in alveolar bone defect volumes between clear aligners and fixed appliance, multiple linear regression analysis was used for study evaluation, and kappa statistics were used to assess internal consistency and test‐retest reliability.

Results

Post‐operatively, most alveolar bone defects occurred on the labial side. The incidence of bone fenestration was 23.96% in the clear aligner group and 26.18% in the fixed appliance group, which was higher than the incidence of bone dehiscence (5.21%). The labial bone height decreased by 0.272 mm, and the palatal bone height increased by 0.617 mm for every 1 mm downward intrusion of the anterior tooth apex in the fixed appliance group. In the clear aligner group, there was no significant change in the labial bone height, and the palatal bone height decreased by 0.447 mm for every 1 mm of anterior tooth retraction coronally.

Conclusions

In the fixed appliance group, anterior tooth intrusion and retraction may have led to alveolar bone resorption by its compression at the cervical level. This study provides a three‐dimensional tooth movement evaluation method by using CBCT.
American Discourses on China's Motivations for Naval Development under Xi Jinping
Authors: Jang Youngduk , Han Yongjon
Published: August 2023

This article examines the security and defense discourse in the United States on China's ambitious naval development in the Asia‐Pacific region. American scholars and experts highlight four motivations for Chinese naval development: (1) the consolidation of China's territorial sovereignty; (2) the feasibility of A2/AD strategy; (3) the protection of China's overseas interests; and (4) leadership endorsement. Xi Jinping has increased the quality and quantity of China's naval capabilities and attempted to enhance his prestige by portraying himself as the driving force behind the development of China's powerful navy. Since then, the United States has not merely watched China's naval development but has considered China's navy a rival force. There are multiple ongoing debates regarding the purpose of China's naval development, including whether China aims to challenge US maritime supremacy. Some scholars are focused on China's territorial and strategic motivation, inferring the aim of posing a direct threat to US national security, but China posits that its purpose for naval development is not to confront US maritime hegemony. Some believe that the Chinese navy is not capable of doing so, and others explain that China is not aiming for a military crusade capable of causing a power transition, but rather focusing on the expansion of maritime interests.
Anesthesia management in a child with mucopolysaccharidosis and toxic epidermal necrolysis: A case report
Authors: Kawamura Akihisa , Tsuboi Kaoru , Oka Aiko , Sakaguchi Hirotoshi , Suzuki Yasuyuki
Published: August 2023

Toxic epidermal necrolysis and mucopolysaccharidosis are both rare diseases that pose significant airway maintenance challenges to anesthesiologists. In this report, we describe the anesthesia management in a 4‐year‐old male with mucopolysaccharidosis type II who developed toxic epidermal necrolysis and presented for ophthalmic surgical procedures. Combined use of propofol and ketamine with the support of high‐flow nasal oxygen enabled adequate analgesia and sedation while maintaining spontaneous ventilation and airway patency. The strategy presented in this report may contribute to enhancing the safety of sedation in spontaneously breathing children with abnormal airways.
Position paper – CFT for psychosis
Authors: Heriot‐Maitland Charles
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This paper outlines the theoretical and empirical basis for compassion focused therapy (CFT) for psychosis, the gaps in the current knowledge and research, as well as some of the challenges for addressing gaps. It will guide the direction of future work and the steps needed to develop and advance this approach.

Method

This paper reviews evidence of how evolutionary models such as social rank theory and attachment theory have greatly contributed to our understanding of psychosis and provide a clear rationale and evidence base for the mechanisms of change in CFT for psychosis. It reviews the evidence for outcomes of compassion training more generally, and early feasibility evaluations of CFT for psychosis.

Results

The process evidence shows that people with psychosis have highly active social rank and threat systems, and the benefits of switching into attachment and care systems, which can support emotion regulation and integrative mind states. The outcomes evidence shows that compassion training impacts not only psychological outcomes, but also physiological outcomes such as neural circuits, immune system, and the autonomic nervous system. Within the psychosis field, outcomes research is still in the early days, but there are good indications of feasibility and a clear path forward for the next steps.

Conclusions

CFT for psychosis is an approach that integrates biopsychosocial processes, an integration that's evidenced across each aspect of the model, from theoretical foundations (evolution‐informed) to interventions (e.g., body/breath training and relational techniques), to evaluation. Future RCTs are required to understand the effects on biopsychosocial outcomes for people with psychosis.
Engineered coumarin accumulation reduces mycotoxin‐induced oxidative stress and disease susceptibility
Authors: Beesley Alexander , Beyer Sebastian F. , Wanders Verena , Levecque Sophie , Bredenbruch Sandra , Habash Samer S. , Schleker A. Sylvia S. , Gätgens Jochem , Oldiges Marco , Schultheiss Holger , Conrath Uwe , Langenbach Caspar J. G.
Published: August 2023

Coumarins can fight pathogens and are thus promising for crop protection. Their biosynthesis, however, has not yet been engineered in crops. We tailored the constitutive accumulation of coumarins in transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana, Glycine max and Arabidopsis thaliana plants, as well as in Nicotiana tabacum BY‐2 suspension cells. We did so by overexpressing A. thaliana feruloyl‐CoA 6‐hydroxylase 1 (AtF6’H1), encoding the key enzyme of scopoletin biosynthesis. Besides scopoletin and its glucoside scopolin, esculin at low level was the only other coumarin detected in transgenic cells. Mechanical damage of scopolin‐accumulating tissue led to a swift release of scopoletin, presumably from the scopolin pool. High scopolin levels in A. thaliana roots coincided with reduced susceptibility to the root‐parasitic nematode Heterodera schachtii. In addition, transgenic soybean plants were more tolerant to the soil‐borne pathogenic fungus Fusarium virguliforme. Because mycotoxin‐induced accumulation of reactive oxygen species and cell death were reduced in the AtF6’H1‐overexpressors, the weaker sensitivity to F. virguliforme may be caused by attenuated oxidative damage of coumarin‐hyperaccumulating cells. Together, engineered coumarin accumulation is promising for enhanced disease resilience of crops.