bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sparrows and supergenes: Ecological epigenetics in action
Authors: Anderson Jordan A. , Tung Jenny
Published: June 2021

Despite the promise of ecological epigenetics, there remain few cases that clearly link epigenetic variation in wild animal populations to evolutionary change. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Sun et al. provide such an example in white‐throated sparrows—a fascinating system in which a large chromosomal rearrangement generates a “supergene” polymorphism linked to plumage colour, aggression and parenting behaviour. By combining whole genome bisulphite sequencing with RNA‐sequencing and chromatin accessibility data, they show that the two alleles of this chromosomal polymorphism also exhibit substantial differences in DNA methylation levels, with implications for gene expression and transposable element activity. Their results provide a compelling case study for how genetic and epigenetic evolution proceed in concert. They also demonstrate the importance of integrating multiple types of genomic information to understand how gene regulation evolves, providing a model for future work in nonmodel species.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and plant diversity drive restoration of nitrogen‐cycling microbial communities
Authors: Wang Jichen , Wang Jiang , He Ji‐Zheng , Zhu Yong‐Guan , Qiao Neng‐Hu , Ge Yuan
Published: June 2021

Soil microbial communities, key players of many crucial ecosystem functions, are susceptible to environmental disturbances, which might cause the loss of microbial diversity and functions. However, few ecological concepts and practices have been developed for rescuing stressed soil microbial communities. Here, we manipulated an experiment with or without arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation and at three levels (one, three and six species) of plant diversity to disentangle how the AMF and vegetation rescue soil nitrogen (N) ‐cycling microbial loop from simulated degraded soil ecosystem. Our results showed that AMF inoculation improved the restoration of soil N‐cycling microbial communities. This improved restoration was related to the role of AMF in enhancing interactions within the N‐cycling microbial loop. Furthermore, increased plant diversity strengthened the role of AMF in rescuing N‐cycling microbial communities. Our findings provide novel insights into the roles of AMF and plant diversity in facilitating the rescue of microbial communities in degraded terrestrial ecosystems.
New materials for improving catches of horseflies (Diptera: Tabanidae) in Nzi traps
Authors: Mihok S. , Carlson D. A.
Published: June 2021

New materials in 85 configurations were tested relative to standard fabric Nzi traps to improve catches of tabanids based on artificial visual cues that mimic those used in nature for locating hosts or water. Colour‐fast synthetic fabrics and photo‐selective horticultural mesh were tested to facilitate insecticide impregnation and for improved durability. Many plastics were explored to document how flies react to polarized and visible vs. ultraviolet light. Lastly, sticky horizontal, linearly polarizing ground‐level shiny plastic targets were tested for capturing water‐seeking tabanids relative to traps and vertical fabric targets. Based on the capture of 281 786 female Tabanidae (Tabanus Linnaeus, Hybomitra Enderlein, Chrysops Meigen), four alternative formats provided higher catches and/or durability. They were substituting: (1) phthalogen turquoise for phthalogen blue, (2) solution‐dyed fabrics for blue and black cotton, (3) clear/white horticultural mesh for mosquito netting, and (4) clear, reflective plastic for some or all netting. A Sunbrella/BioNet fabric trap (portable) and a blue‐black Plexiglas®/netting trap (fixed applications) consistently performed best (1.5–3 × higher catches). Ground‐level targets captured many male and gravid female Hybomitra but were ineffective for Tabanus. Traps and vertical fabric or transparent sticky targets captured mainly unfed females.
Tinea pedis—An embarrassing problem for health and beauty—A narrative review
Authors: Nowicka Danuta , Nawrot Urszula
Published: June 2021

Fungal infections present with a broad spectrum of diseases in humans (from relatively mild superficial infections of the skin and mucous membranes to the invasive or chronic infections of internal organs, which have a high mortality rate). Globally, up to 1.6 million people die each year as a result of various types of mycoses. Currently, many scientific studies focus on the best possible understanding of the aspects of the epidemiology and pathogenesis of invasive mycoses and effective methods to combat them. However, mycoses of the skin and its appendages remain a relatively less explored area. In some communities, superficial mycoses are a frequent problem as they affect nearly 70% of the population, an example of which is the athlete's foot. It involves the nails (onychomycosis) and skin (tinea pedis). It is mainly caused by keratin‐decomposing dermatophyte fungi. Less often, infections are caused by non‐dermatophyte moulds (Fusarium, Aspergillus, Scopulariopsis) or yeasts. Several factors have been listed as having substantial influence on the development of dermatophytosis, including those related to climate, season, geographical region, as well as to demography, socioeconomic and cultural customs, professions or contact with animals. In this review, we summarise the current knowledge about aetiology, epidemiology, diagnostics and therapy of tinea pedis with a special focus to the role of podologic management in spreading, prevention and therapy of mycoses. The article presents up‐to‐date knowledge on the management of the patient from the diagnosis, treatment and skincare, to counselling on how to prevent fungal skin infections in the long term.
Studying the transition from graduate to health practitioner: The Griffith Dietetics Graduate Outcomes Survey
Authors: Heafala Alana , Mitchell Lana J. , Williams Lauren T.
Published: June 2021

Understanding health workforce profiles is important for planning. This study aimed to explore the experiences and influences on graduate dietitians transitioning to employment. A mixed‐methods case‐study design was used. Graduates of Griffith University Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics 2017–2019 cohorts (n = 150) were invited to participate. Purpose‐developed surveys were administered prior to graduation and six‐months later to examine employment outcomes. Telephone interviews were conducted with participants in the 2017 cohort using a semi‐structured protocol and thematically analyzed to further explore key issues arising from the survey results. Qualitative data were synthesized using triangulation of open survey items and interview responses. Baseline data were provided by 137 graduates (91%), with 110 (80%) completing the six‐month survey. At six‐months, 84 of the 98 (85%) respondents seeking employment reported being employed as a dietitian (private practice, n = 46; hospital, n = 26), 39 of whom were working full‐time. Key themes included the importance of networking to gain employment, willingness to relocate to rural areas, the need to persevere, and the need for supported career development. These findings can be used to inform dietetic education and workforce preparation.
Post‐craniotomy fever and its associated factors in patients with traumatic brain injury
Authors: Huang Jui‐Hsia , Wang Tsae‐Jyy , Wu Shu‐Fang , Liu Chieh‐Yu , Fan Jun‐Yu
Published: June 2021

Background

Fever frequently occurs in patients with traumatic brain injury and can cause secondary damage to the brain. Critical care nurses play essential roles in assessing and managing fever in these patients.

Aim

The study aimed to (a) examine the fever causes in and condition of neurosurgical patients with traumatic brain injury in intensive care, (b) identify the factors associated with fever, and (c) determine the effects of fever on hospital stay and prognosis.

Study design

This study is a retrospective observational design.

Methods

Data were collected through chart reviews of 93 traumatic brain injury patients admitted to a teaching hospital's intensive care unit for postoperative care. Fever was defined as at least one episode of body temperature >38°C.

Results

Of the 93 patients, 76 developed a fever within 1‐week post‐craniotomy. Of these, 49 were infection‐related and 27 were unexplained. Results of logistic regression showed that the preoperative Glasgow coma scale score (ß = −.323; P = .013) and length of intubation (ß = .480; P = .005) were the key predictors of unexplained post‐craniotomy fever, and these two variables (ß = −.494; P < .001 and ß = .479; P = .006, respectively) were also the key predictors of infection‐related fever.

Conclusion

A significant portion of patients developed a fever during the first post‐craniotomy week. Patients with a lower pre‐craniotomy Glasgow coma scale score and a longer intubation length were at a greater risk for both infection‐related fever and unexplained fever. Patients with fever had a bad outcome score.

Relevance to clinical practice

Critical care nurses should closely monitor traumatic brain injury patients' body temperatures and employ evidence‐based infection prevention and control measures to minimize their infection risks. Respiratory care and intensive care unit Liberation Bundle should be reinforced to liberate these patients from mechanical ventilation and its associated complications.
Long‐term effects of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in patients with irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: El‐Salhy Magdy , Kristoffersen Anja Bråthen , Valeur Jørgen , Casen Christina , Hatlebakk Jan Gunnar , Gilja Odd Helge , Hausken Trygve
Published: June 2021

Background

We recently found fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients to be an effective and safe treatment after 3 months. The present follow‐up study investigated the efficacy and safety of FMT at 1 year after treatment.

Methods

This study included 77 of the 91 IBS patients who had responded to FMT in our previous study. Patients provided a fecal sample and completed five questionnaires to assess their symptoms and quality of life at 1 year after FMT. The dysbiosis index (DI) and fecal bacterial profile were analyzed using a 16S rRNA gene‐based DNA probe hybridization. The levels of fecal short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were determined by gas chromatography.

Results

There was a persistent response to FMT at 1 year after treatment in 32 (86.5%) and 35 (87.5%) patients who received 30‐g and 60‐g FMT, respectively. In the 30‐g FMT group, 12 (32.4%) and 8 (21.6%) patients showed complete remission at 1 year and 3 months, respectively; the corresponding numbers in the 60‐g FMT group were 18 (45%) and 11 (27.5%), respectively. Abdominal symptoms and the quality of life were improved at 1 year compared with after 3 months. These findings were accompanied by comprehensive changes in the fecal bacterial profile and SCFAs.

Conclusions

Most of the IBS patients maintained a response at 1 year after FMT. Moreover, the improvements in symptoms and quality of life increased over time. Changes in DI, fecal bacterial profile and SCFAs were more comprehensive at 1 year than after 3 months. www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03822299).
Functional anorectal studies in patients with low anterior resection syndrome
Authors: Chen Ssu‐Chi , Futaba Kaori , Leung Wing Wa , Wong Cherry , Mak Tony , Ng Simon , Gregersen Hans
Published: June 2021

Background

Most patients who have undergone low anterior resection suffer from bowel dysfunction postoperatively. This condition is referred to as low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). The aim was to study defecatory patterns in LARS patients compared to a primary control group of fecal incontinence (FI) patients and normal subjects (NS) with the Fecobionics device.

Methods

Fecobionics expulsion parameters were assessed in an interventional study design. The Fecobionics probe contained pressure sensors at the front, rear, and inside the bag. The bag was distended until urge sensation in rectum in 11 LARS patients (5F/6M, 63.2 ± 2.9 years), 11 FI subjects (7F/4M, 64.4 ± 2.5 years), and 11 NS (7F/4M, 63.6 ± 3.0 years). Defecation indices were computed from the Fecobionics data. All subjects had high‐resolution anorectal manometry (ARM) and balloon expulsion test (BET) done. Symptoms were evaluated with LARS and Wexner scores.

Key Results

The LARS score in the LARS patients was 39.0 ± 0.6. The Wexner score in the LARS, FI, and NS groups was 14.2 ± 0.7, 10.1±1.0, and 0.0 ± 0.0 (p < 0.01). The resting anal pressure and squeeze pressure were lowest in LARS patients (p < 0.05). The urge volume was 11.8 ± 4.2, 59.6 ± 6.4, and 41.6 ± 6.4 ml in the LARS, FI, and NS groups, respectively (p < 0.001). The expulsion duration did not differ between groups. Defecation indices were lowest in the LARS patients (p < 0.05). ARM‐BET confirmed the low urge volume in LARS patients whereas anal pressures did not differ between groups.

Conclusions and Inferences

The LARS patients had low anal pressures and urge volume. Most Defecation Indices differed between the LARS group and the other groups.
Skeletal and dental effects of Herbst appliance anchored with temporary anchorage devices: A systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Al‐Dboush Ra’ed , Soltan Rowida , Rao Jayadeep , El‐Bialy Tarek
Published: June 2021

Background

The aim was to evaluate the efficiency of using temporary anchorage devices (TADs) in minimizing the anchorage loss and increasing the skeletal effects during correction of Class II malocclusion with Herbst appliance.

Materials and methods

Search without restrictions was performed up to January 2021 in three electronic databases (CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs), prospective and retrospective cohort studies. The included studies assessed the dental and skeletal changes in Class II malocclusion patients who were treated using Herbst appliance with or without TADs. The strength of evidence was ranked using GRADE.

Results

Fifty‐five records were initially retrieved. A total of 6 studies with 198 patients were finally considered. 4 studies were included in the meta‐analysis. The meta‐analysis showed that using TADs with acrylic splint Herbst appliance was effective in controlling the inclination of mandibular incisors by a mean difference of −5.49 degrees (95% C.I [−7.36, −3.63], P < .001) when compared to Herbst appliance alone. The results showed also that incorporating TADs with Herbst treatment resulted in greater mandibular skeletal effects including increasing mandibular bone base length by mean difference of 2.22 mm (95% C.I [0.82. 3.61], P = .002) and mandibular length by mean difference of 3.7 mm (95% C.I [1.55, 5.85], P < .001) when compared to Herbst appliance alone.

Conclusions

Based on a very low level of confidence, it seems that incorporating TADs during orthodontic treatment with Herbst appliance results in minimizing the anchorage loss and increasing the skeletal effects of Herbst appliance during correction of Class II malocclusion.
Oleosin Cor a 15 is a novel allergen for Italian hazelnut allergic children
Authors: Nebbia Stefano , Lamberti Cristina , Cirrincione Simona , Acquadro Alberto , Abbà Simona , Ciuffo Marina , Torello Marinoni Daniela , Manfredi Marcello , Marengo Emilio , Calzedda Roberta , Monti Giovanna , Cavallarin Laura , Giuffrida Maria Gabriella
Published: June 2021

Background

Hazelnut allergy, which is characterized by symptoms that range from mild to severe, is one of the most common allergies in children throughout Europe, and an accurate diagnosis of this allergy is therefore essential. However, lipophilic allergens, such as oleosins, are generally underrepresented in diagnostic tests. We therefore sought to characterize the IgE reactivity of raw and roasted hazelnut oleosins, using the sera of hazelnut‐allergic pediatric patients.

Methods

Raw and roasted hazelnut oil body–associated proteins were analyzed by means of 1D and 2D electrophoresis and MS. Oleosin IgE reactivity was assessed by immunoblotting with the sera of 27 children who have confirmed hazelnut allergies and from 10 tolerant subjects. A molecular characterization of the oleosins was performed by interrogating the C. avellana cv. Jefferson and cv. TGL genomes, and through expression and purification of the recombinant new allergen.

Results

A proteomic and genomic investigation allowed two new oleosins to be identified, in addition to Cor a 12 and Cor a 13, in hazelnut oil bodies. One of the new oleosins was registered as a new allergen, according to the WHO/IUIS Allergen Nomenclature Subcommittee criteria, and termed Cor a 15. Cor a 15 was the most frequently immunorecognized oleosin in our cohort. Oleosins resulted to be the only immunorecognized allergens in a subgroup of allergic patients who showed low ImmunoCAP assay IgE values and positive OFC and PbP. Hazelnut roasting resulted in an increase in oleosin immunoreactivity.

Conclusion

A novel hazelnut oleosin, named Cor a 15, has been discovered. Cor a 15 could play a role in eliciting an allergic reaction in a subgroup of pediatric patients that exclusively immunorecognize oleosins. The high prevalence of hazelnut oleosin sensitization here reported further confirms the need to include oleosins in routine diagnostic procedures.
Lead migration and fracture rate in dorsal root ganglion stimulation using anchoring and non‐anchoring techniques: A multicenter pooled data analysis
Authors: Chapman Kenneth B. , Mogilner Alon Y. , Yang Ajax H. , Yadav Abhishek , Patel Kiran V. , Lubenow Timothy , van Helmond Noud , Deer Timothy , Kallewaard Jan Willem
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRG‐S) is a neuromodulation technique introduced in the last decade with evolving implant methods. Initial prospective research found low incidences of lead migration and lead fracture with DRG‐S. However, several recent studies have highlighted high lead migration and lead fracture rates with DRG‐S. We investigated the influence of lead anchoring on migrations and fractures.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review between 2016 and 2020 of individuals implanted with DRG‐S leads by 4 experienced implanters. The implanters independently changed their standard practice regarding lead anchoring over time, with opposing trends (no anchoring > anchoring, anchoring > no anchoring). We compared lead migration and lead fracture rates between anchored and unanchored DRG‐S leads in the entire study cohort. Cox regression was performed on lead migration and fracture distributions.

Results

We included 756 leads (n = 565 anchored andn = 191 unanchored) from 249 patients. In unanchored leads, migration occurred in 16 leads (8.4%) from 13 patients (21.0%). In anchored leads, migration occurred in 8 leads (1.4%) from 5 patients (2.7%). Fracture in unanchored leads occurred in 6 leads (3.1%) from 6 patients (9.7%). Fractures in anchored leads occurred in 11 leads (1.9%) from 9 patients (4.8%). The migration survival distributions for the anchored and unanchored leads were statistically significantly different (p < 0.01) with decreased survival for unanchored leads (hazard ratio = 5.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.2–15.5).

Discussion

We found that anchoring DRG‐S leads significantly reduces lead migration when compared to leads placed without an anchor. There was no significant difference in fracture rate between anchored and unanchored leads.
Evolutionary and functional analysis of two‐component system in chickpea reveals CaRR13, a TypeB RR, as positive regulator of symbiosis
Authors: Tiwari Manish , Yadav Manisha , Singh Baljinder , Pandey Vimal , Nawaz Kashif , Bhatia Sabhyata
Published: June 2021

The critical role of cytokinin in early nodulation in legumes is well known. In our study, exogenous cytokinin application to roots of the important crop legume, chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), led to the formation of pseudo‐nodules even in the absence of rhizobia. Hence, a genome‐wide analysis of the cytokinin signalling, two‐component system (TCS) genes, was conducted in chickpea, Medicago and Cajanus cajan. The integrated phylogenetic, evolutionary and expression analysis of the TCS genes was carried out, which revealed that histidine kinases (HKs) were highly conserved, whereas there was diversification leading to neofunctionalization at the level of response regulators (RRs) especially the TypeB RRs. Further, the functional role of the CaHKs in nodulation was established by complementation of the sln1Δ mutant of yeast and cre1 mutants of (Medicago) which led to restoration of the nodule‐deficient phenotype. Additionally, the highest expressing TypeB RR of chickpea, CaRR13, was functionally characterized. Its localization in the nucleus and its Y1H assay‐based interaction with the promoter of the early nodulation gene CaNSP2 indicated its role as a transcription factor regulating early nodulation. Overexpression, RNAi lines and complementation of cre1 mutants with CaRR13 revealed its critical involvement as an important signalling molecule regulating early events of nodule organogenesis in chickpea.
Putting World War I on trial: The moral peace activism of Austrian socialist Friedrich Adler through political assassination
Authors: Callahan Kevin J.
Published: June 2021

This study of the action and motivation of Austrian socialist Friedrich Adler, who assassinated the Austrian Prime Minister Stürgkh during World War I, considers the possibility that an instance of targeted political violence could be a defensible means to further peace. Adler used the publicity of his act and subsequent trial to galvanize public opposition against World War I. Situating Adler’s statements about the assassination within their historical context and moral psychologist James Rest’s four‐component model of morality lends support to Adler’s self‐professed contention that his deed is morally defensible. This insight complicates the widespread view within the peace studies literature of nonviolent action as the most effective tactic to bring about a just and peaceful society. Adler’s moral peace activism, when framed as an unusual form of civil disobedience, permits tentative and surprising connections with the moral reasoning of renowned nonviolent peacemakers of the twentieth century like Mohandas Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr.
Simultaneous Determination of the Chemical (kr) and the Physical (kq) Quenching Rate Constants of Singlet Oxygen in Aqueous Solution by the Chemiluminescence‐quenching Method†
Authors: Pierlot Christel , Nardello‐Rataj Véronique , Aubry Jean‐Marie
Published: June 2021

This work reports a novel and visual method for the simultaneous determination of the chemical (kr) and the physical (kq) quenching rate constants of singlet oxygen (1O2,1∆g) in aqueous media. It is based on the disruption, by a water‐soluble substrate S, of the 1O2 chemiluminescence (CL) generated by the H2O2/Na2MoO4 catalytic system. A mathematical analysis of the CL signal at 1270 nm vs time provides separately the overall (kr + kq) and the chemical (kr) quenching rate constants. In ordinary water (H2O), 1O2 lifetime is short and the CL intensity is weak allowing solely the investigation of very reactive substrates for which (kr + kq) > 3 × 106 m−1 s−1 while, in D2O, 1O2 lifetime is significantly longer lifetime and the CL signal is much stronger allowing the study of poorly reactive substrates for which (kr + kq) > 4 × 105 m−1 s−1. The method has been successfully tested on a series of anionic and nonionic water‐soluble naphthalene derivatives commonly used as bio‐compatible 1O2 carriers. The obtained kr and kq values are in good agreement with the values determined by conventional techniques, namely, flash photolysis and competitive kinetics with a reference quencher.
Secondary metabolites and related genes in Vitis vinifera L. cv. Tempranillo grapes as influenced by ultraviolet radiation and berry development
Authors: Del‐Castillo‐Alonso María‐Ángeles , Monforte Laura , Tomás‐Las‐Heras Rafael , Ranieri Annamaria , Castagna Antonella , Martínez‐Abaigar Javier , Núñez‐Olivera Encarnación
Published: June 2021

The effects of UV radiation on Vitis vinifera cv Tempranillo grapes were studied under field conditions as influenced by ultraviolet (UV) band (UV‐A and UV‐B), UV‐B level (ambient vs enhanced), grape phenological stage (pea‐size, veraison, and harvest), grape component (skin, flesh, and seeds), and fraction from which phenolic UV‐absorbing compounds (UVACs) were extracted (soluble vs insoluble). Ambient UV‐B levels caused stronger effects than ambient UV‐A. These effects included increases in flavonol contents (particularly quercetins and kaempferols), the expression of flavonol synthase and chalcone synthase genes (VvFLS4 and VvCHS1), and grape weight and size. In addition, the contents of flavanols and hydroxycinnamic acids increased under UV‐B radiation at pea‐size stage. All these compounds play physiological roles as antioxidants and UV screens. Synergic effects between UV‐B and UV‐A were observed. The responses of anthocyanins, stilbenes, and volatile compounds to UV were diffuse or nonexistent. Enhanced UV‐B led to rather subtle changes in comparison with ambient UV‐B, but differences between both treatments could be demonstrated by multivariate analysis. Pea‐size and harvest were the phenological stages where the most significant responses to UV were found, while the skin was the most UV‐responsive grape component. Soluble phenolic compounds were much more UV‐responsive than insoluble compounds. In conclusion, UV radiation was essential for the induction of specific grape phenolic and volatile compounds. Given the physiological roles of these compounds, as well as their contribution to grape and wine quality, and their potential use as nutraceuticals, our results may have implications on the artificial manipulation of UV radiation.
Chemical diversity and cellular effects of antifungal cyclic lipopeptides from cyanobacteria
Authors: Fewer David P. , Jokela Jouni , Heinilä Lassi , Aesoy Reidun , Sivonen Kaarina , Galica Tomáš , Hrouzek Pavel , Herfindal Lars
Published: June 2021

Cyanobacteria produce a variety of chemically diverse cyclic lipopeptides with potent antifungal activities. These cyclic lipopeptides have an amphipathic structure comprised of a polar peptide cycle and hydrophobic fatty acid side chain. Many have antibiotic activity against a range of human and plant fungal pathogens. This review article aims to summarize the present knowledge on the chemical diversity and cellular effects of cyanobacterial cyclic lipopeptides that display antifungal activity. Cyclic antifungal lipopeptides from cyanobacteria commonly fall into four structural classes; hassallidins, puwainaphycins, laxaphycins, and anabaenolysins. Many of these antifungal cyclic lipopeptides act through cholesterol and ergosterol‐dependent disruption of membranes. In many cases, the cyclic lipopeptides also exert cytotoxicity in human cells, and a more extensive examination of their biological activity and structure–activity relationship is warranted. The hassallidin, puwainaphycin, laxaphycin, and anabaenolysin structural classes are unified through shared complex biosynthetic pathways that encode a variety of unusual lipoinitiation mechanisms and branched biosynthesis that promote their chemical diversity. However, the biosynthetic origins of some cyanobacterial cyclic lipopeptides and the mechanisms, which drive their structural diversification in general, remain poorly understood. The strong functional convergence of differently organized chemical structures suggests that the production of lipopeptide confers benefits for their producer. Whether these benefits originate from their antifungal activity or some other physiological function remains to be answered in the future. However, it is clear that cyanobacteria encode a wealth of new cyclic lipopeptides with novel biotechnological and therapeutic applications.
Associations between autonomic nervous system activity and risk‐taking and internalizing behavior in young adolescents
Authors: Loheide‐Niesmann Lisa , Vrijkotte Tanja G. M. , De Rooij Susanne R. , Wiers Reinout W. , Huizink Anja
Published: June 2021

Dysregulated autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity has been associated with adolescent risk‐taking and internalizing behavior, but previous results in community samples have been mixed. We investigated whether ANS activity was associated with higher risk‐taking and internalizing behavior in young adolescents (age 11/12; n = 875), and whether adolescents' gender, parents' parenting style or a combination of both moderated these associations. Adolescents and their parents were recruited as part of the population‐based, longitudinal Amsterdam Born Children and their Development (ABCD) study. Risk‐taking behavior was assessed with the Balloon Analogue Risk Task and the personality characteristics sensation seeking and impulsivity, measured with the Substance Use Risk Profile Scale (SURPS). Internalizing behavior was assessed via the SURPS subscales anxiety sensitivity and hopelessness. Authoritative (AUTH‐SW) and authoritarian (AUTH‐S) parenting styles were measured with the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire. Resting ANS activity was assessed via heart rate and respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA). Hierarchical, multivariable regression analyses showed higher RSA, but not heart rate, being associated with higher risk‐taking behavior and sensation seeking. The associations between ANS activity and risk‐taking variables were not significantly moderated by gender, parenting, or interactions between gender and parenting. Our findings suggest that RSA activity may be a relevant factor in mild to moderate risk‐taking behavior in adolescents from the general population, regardless of their gender or the type of parenting they experience.
How effective is direct seeding to restore the functional composition of neotropical savannas?
Authors: Giles André Luiz , Costa Patrícia de Britto , Rowland Lucy , Abrahão Anna , Lobo Luisa , Verona Larissa , Silva Mateus Cardoso , Monge Marcelo , Wolfsdorf Gabriel , Petroni Amanda , D'Angioli André M. , Sampaio Alexandre B. , Schimidt Isabel B. , Oliveira Rafael S.
Published: June 2021

Species loss leads to changes in ecosystem function and services, impacting human well‐being. Although biodiversity restoration is pivotal to circumvent this situation, the techniques for restoring old‐growth savannas are still limited and the restoration outcomes remain unpredictable. Here, we use a trait‐based approach to understand the functional outcomes of ecological restoration via direct seeding in a Brazilian savanna (cerrado, hereafter neotropical savanna). We compared the functional composition from woody and non‐woody component, total biomass, and biomass allocation of a restored relative to a degraded savanna (abandoned pasture) dominated by exotic grasses and a well‐preserved old‐growth native savanna. We found that the functional composition of restored communities was very similar to those dominated by exotic grasses, both characterized by a greater dominance of species with acquisitive traits, higher above‐ground biomass, and lower investment in root biomass. In contrast, the native vegetation exhibited a dominance of conservative traits and higher investment in belowground rather than aboveground biomass. Even though the acquisitive traits in the restored savanna allow a fast aboveground biomass accumulation and soil cover, the lower belowground biomass investment in the restored savanna may limit its resistance and resilience to droughts and fires. Our findings suggest that restoration efforts in neotropical savanna should focus on fostering the establishment of slow‐growing species to recover the ecosystem properties provided by the high biodiversity in neotropical savannas.
Removal or utilization? Testing alternative approaches to the management of an invasive woody legume in an arid Indian grassland
Authors: Nerlekar Ashish N. , Mehta Nirav , Pokar Ritesh , Bhagwat Mayur , Misher Chetan , Joshi Pankaj , Hiremath Ankila J.
Published: June 2021

Woody plant encroachment is a pervasive global driver impacting grassland structure and functioning, and we know very little about efficacies of management techniques for restoring woody plant‐encroached tropical grasslands. In the Banni grasslands of India, which are extensively encroached by an invasive woody legume,Prosopis juliflora, we test the efficacies of twoProsopismanagement methods—mechanical removal and lopping—to restore native grasslands. Across eight sites in the Banni, using a randomized block design, we monitored herbaceous plant recovery in the twoProsopismanagement treatments, and an unmanipulated control for 4 years. We also sampled four reference grasslands. We found native herbaceous plant richness and cover to be threefold (mean = 6 species) and sixfold (mean = 18% cover) higher, respectively, in the mechanical‐removal treatment compared to the control (mean richness = 2 species, cover = 3%), but found no significant differences between the lopping treatment (mean richness = 5 species, cover = 11%) and the control. While mechanical‐removal increased plant diversity, neither management treatment changed the species composition, and both of these treatments were still missing perennial grasses that dominate the reference grasslands. Our data highlight the efficacy of mechanical removal over lopping in restoring native grasslands. However, mechanically removingProsopisis costly, especially at larger scales. Apart from its detrimental impact on grasslands,Prosopisalso has benefits varying with stakeholder groups, and its removal involves complex trade‐offs. Until we fully understand the trade‐offs involved, it may therefore be better to manage this social‐ecological landscape as a mosaic of restored grassland andProsopis‐invaded patches.
Does active plant restoration passively restore native fauna community structure and function?
Authors: Pearson Dean E. , Ortega Yvette K. , Cimino Hillary E. , Mummy Daniel L. , Ramsey Philip W.
Published: June 2021

Ecological restoration commonly emphasizes reestablishing native plant communities. Implicit in this approach is the assumption that actively restoring plant communities can passively restore structure and function of other community components like wildlife. However, this assumption is rarely tested. We evaluated how plant restoration in grasslands of the northwestern United States affected the structure (composition and relative abundance) of native small mammal communities and the important functional role they play as seed predators. We quantified vegetation, small mammal community structure, small mammal seed predation, and effects of seed predation on native plant recruitment in comparable grasslands that were either native‐dominated, planted with introduced forage grasses, or had undergone restoration treatments to suppress introduced grasses and increase native plants with and without supplemental watering. Native plant cover averaged ≥5 times higher at restoration sites relative to introduced grass sites. Small mammals, primarily deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus), were least abundant in introduced grass sites and most abundant in water‐supplemented restoration treatments, with intermediate levels in native and unwatered restoration sites. Seed offerings and seed sowing experiments indicated that seed predation and its effects on plant recruitment correlated with small mammal abundance, with effects generally weakest in introduced grass and strongest in restoration sites. Our results suggest that active plant restoration can passively restore the structure and function of native small mammal communities. While small mammal seed predation is a desired long‐term function, it can also inhibit restoration efforts. We discuss emerging strategies for mitigating seed predation during restoration seeding.
Intense mowing management suppresses invader, but shifts competitive resistance by a native to facilitation
Authors: Nagy Dávid U. , Rauschert Emily S. J. , Callaway Ragan M. , Henn Tamás , Filep Rita , Pal Robert W.
Published: June 2021

Interactions among native and invasive species may affect management outcomes and goals. We implemented different mowing regimes to control the invasive Solidago gigantea and restore natural diversity, and also examined interactions between Solidago and a European native competitor, Tanacetum vulgare in the context of these regimes. Experimentally planted Tanacetum suppressed Solidago by 79% without management, and a suite of mowing management regimes reduced the density of Solidago by 80–98% when Tanacetum was absent. But, when Tanacetum was added, the density of the invader was not reduced by mowing. Put another way, in mowed plots with Tanacetum, Solidago was twofold to over fivefold denser than in mowed plots without Tanacetum. It is not clear why the effect of Tanacetum shifted from competition in the absence of disturbance to facilitation with intense management‐associated disturbance, but other studies suggest that Tanacetum may create plant–soil feedbacks that favor Solidago. Evidence shows similar shifts from competition to facilitation under mowing regimes for other species, but these are not mechanistically clear either. We speculate that mowing reduced competition from Tanacetum while leaving belowground facilitative effects unchanged, shifting the net effect of Tanacetum to facilitation. When single‐year mowed plots were abandoned for just 1 year, Solidago was twofold denser than in the control, thus maintaining treatments over time was important for successful management. Our results indicate that mechanical control may substantially alter biotic resistance gained from native competition.
BARD: A Structured Technique for Group Elicitation of Bayesian Networks to Support Analytic Reasoning
Authors: Nyberg Erik P. , Nicholson Ann E. , Korb Kevin B. , Wybrow Michael , Zukerman Ingrid , Mascaro Steven , Thakur Shreshth , Oshni Alvandi Abraham , Riley Jeff , Pearson Ross , Morris Shane , Herrmann Matthieu , Azad A.K.M. , Bolger Fergus , Hahn Ulrike , Lagnado David
Published: June 2021

In many complex, real‐world situations, problem solving and decision making require effective reasoning about causation and uncertainty. However, human reasoning in these cases is prone to confusion and error. Bayesian networks (BNs) are an artificial intelligence technology that models uncertain situations, supporting better probabilistic and causal reasoning and decision making. However, to date, BN methodologies and software require (but do not include) substantial upfront training, do not provide much guidance on either the model building process or on using the model for reasoning and reporting, and provide no support for building BNs collaboratively. Here, we contribute a detailed description and motivation for our new methodology and application, Bayesian ARgumentation via Delphi (BARD). BARD utilizes BNs and addresses these shortcomings by integrating (1) short, high‐quality e‐courses, tips, and help on demand; (2) a stepwise, iterative, and incremental BN construction process; (3) report templates and an automated explanation tool; and (4) a multiuser web‐based software platform and Delphi‐style social processes. The result is an end‐to‐end online platform, with associated online training, for groups without prior BN expertise to understand and analyze a problem, build a model of its underlying probabilistic causal structure, validate and reason with the causal model, and (optionally) use it to produce a written analytic report. Initial experiments demonstrate that, for suitable problems, BARD aids in reasoning and reporting. Comparing their effect sizes also suggests BARD's BN‐building and collaboration combine beneficially and cumulatively.
Global Sensitivity Analysis with Mixtures: A Generalized Functional ANOVA Approach
Authors: Borgonovo Emanuele , Li Genyuan , Barr John , Plischke Elmar , Rabitz Herschel
Published: June 2021

This work investigates aspects of the global sensitivity analysis of computer codes when alternative plausible distributions for the model inputs are available to the analyst. Analysts may decide to explore results under each distribution or to aggregate the distributions, assigning, for instance, a mixture. In the first case, we lose uniqueness of the sensitivity measures, and in the second case, we lose independence even if the model inputs are independent under each of the assigned distributions. Removing the unique distribution assumption impacts the mathematical properties at the basis of variance‐based sensitivity analysis and has consequences on result interpretation as well. We analyze in detail the technical aspects. From this investigation, we derive corresponding recommendations for the risk analyst. We show that an approach based on the generalized functional ANOVA expansion remains theoretically grounded in the presence of a mixture distribution. Numerically, we base the construction of the generalized function ANOVA effects on the diffeomorphic modulation under observable response preserving homotopy regression. Our application addresses the calculation of variance‐based sensitivity measures for the well‐known Nordhaus' DICE model, when its inputs are assigned a mixture distribution. A discussion of implications for the risk analyst and future research perspectives closes the work.
Estimation of Tolerable Daily Intake (TDI) for Immunological Effects of Aflatoxin
Authors: Saha Turna Nikita , Wu Felicia
Published: June 2021

Aflatoxins are toxic chemicals produced by the fungi Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. In warm climates, these fungi frequently contaminate crops such as maize, peanuts, tree nuts, and sunflower seeds. In many tropical and subtropical regions of the world, populations are coexposed to dietary aflatoxin and multiple infectious pathogens in food, water, and the environment. There is increasing evidence that aflatoxin compromises the immune system, which could increase infectious disease risk in vulnerable populations. Our aim was to conduct a dose–response assessment on a noncarcinogenic endpoint of aflatoxin: immunotoxicological effects. We sought to determine a noncarcinogenic tolerable daily intake (TDI) of aflatoxin, based on the existing data surrounding aflatoxin and biomarkers of immune suppression. To conduct the dose response assessment, mammalian studies were assessed for appropriateness of doses (relevant to potential human exposures) as well as goodness of data, and two appropriate mouse studies that examined decreases in leukocyte counts were selected to generate dose response curves. From these, we determined benchmark dose lower confidence limits (BMDL) as points of departure to estimate a range of TDIs for aflatoxin‐related immune impairment: 0.017–0.082 μg/kg bw/day. As aflatoxin is a genotoxic carcinogen, and regulations concerning its presence in food have largely focused on its carcinogenic effects, international risk assessment bodies such as the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have never established a TDI for aflatoxin. Our work highlights the importance of the noncarcinogenic effects of aflatoxin that may have broader public health impacts, to inform regulatory standard‐setting.
Balancing the Elicitation Burden and the Richness of Expert Input When Quantifying Discrete Bayesian Networks
Authors: Barons Martine J. , Mascaro Steven , Hanea Anca M.
Published: June 2021

Structured expert judgment (SEJ) is a method for obtaining estimates of uncertain quantities from groups of experts in a structured way designed to minimize the pervasive cognitive frailties of unstructured approaches. When the number of quantities required is large, the burden on the groups of experts is heavy, and resource constraints may mean that eliciting all the quantities of interest is impossible. Partial elicitations can be complemented with imputation methods for the remaining, unelicited quantities. In the case where the quantities of interest are conditional probability distributions, the natural relationship between the quantities can be exploited to impute missing probabilities. Here we test the Bayesian intelligence interpolation method and its variations for Bayesian network conditional probability tables, called “InterBeta.” We compare the various outputs of InterBeta on two cases where conditional probability tables were elicited from groups of experts. We show that interpolated values are in good agreement with experts' values and give guidance on how InterBeta could be used to good effect to reduce expert burden in SEJ exercises.
Nocebo effects on motor performance: A systematic literature review
Authors: Horváth Áron , Köteles Ferenc , Szabo Attila
Published: June 2021

Directionally opposite to placebo effects are the nocebo effects that negatively impact people’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. An important but scarcely studied aspect of everyday functioning is motor performance, in which nocebo effects might impair athletic skills and the much‐needed purposeful daily movements and motor actions. The aim of this literature review is to unveil the nocebo effects on motor performance.

Searched databases were PubMed, PsycINFO, and SPORTDiscus. Twenty‐one articles, reporting 23 studies, met the eligibility criteria for inclusion in the current review. All reports exhibited “some” risk of bias. Of the 23 studies, 14 found a nocebo effect on motor performance, equivocal results emerged from two studies, and negative findings were reported in seven studies. Most (10/12) studies using a between‐subjects design have reported a nocebo effect. The mean effect size was 0.60, suggesting a medium‐to‐large effect of nocebo intervention on motor performance. Based on this review, we conclude that nocebo effects do influence motor performance and can be evoked with negative verbal information. This effect may be more robust than the placebo effect but also depends on the type of motor performance, on the examined sample, and on the nocebo agent. Hence, nocebo effects should be recognized and controlled in empirical research on motor performance, and they should be prevented or extinguished in practical and therapeutic settings. More extensive examination of the nocebo effect on motor performance is warranted, especially using between‐subjects research design and a “no agent” control condition.
Early post‐transplant cutaneous bacillary angiomatosis in a kidney recipient: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Morillas Jose A. , Hassanein Mohamed , Syed Bushra , Liaqat Aimen , Bergfeld Wilma , Sardiña Luis A. , Fatica Richard , Lum Jessica
Published: June 2021

Bacillary angiomatosis (BA) is an uncommon systemic disease caused by Bartonella henselae (BH) or Bartonella quintana (BQ) that occurs primarily in immunocompromised hosts. Few cases of BA recipients have been reported in adult solid transplant recipients over the years, with most cases presenting years after transplant. We describe a case of a kidney transplant recipient who developed cutaneous BA very early in the post‐transplant period despite not having any exposures. Retrospective testing of donor and recipient's serum was performed and raised the concern for possible donor‐derived infection. A literature review encompassing 1990 to present was also performed in order to better understand the clinical presentation, diagnostics and therapeutic approach of this unusual disease. Combined serology, histopathology and molecular testing (polymerase chain reaction [PCR]) were useful in diagnosing BA in our patient as serology alone might be unreliable. Macrolides or doxycycline for at least 3 months is the recommended therapeutic strategy; however, the optimal duration of treatment is not well established in transplant recipients. In our patient, we decided to use doxycycline for 1 year due to gradual resolution of lesions and ongoing immunosuppression. Patient responded successfully without any documented relapse.