bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Australian megafires alter predicted distribution of the southern greater glider (Petauroides volans)
Authors: Ridley Jenna C. H. , Marsh Karen , Lavery Tyrone , Blanchard Wade , Lindenmayer David , Evans Maldwyn J.
Published: August 2024

Altered fire regimes and the increased frequency and/or severity of wildfires are significant issues for fire‐sensitive species. In the Austral summer of 2019/2020, Australia experienced one of the worst fire seasons in recorded history (known as the 2019/2020 megafires), affecting 12.6 million hectares of eastern Australia. The Endangered southern greater glider (Petauroides volans) inhabits large areas impacted by the 2019/2020 megafires. With increasing fire severity, frequency, and intensity, there is a need to understand where in the landscape southern greater gliders are most impacted by fire, and where the species is most likely to persist in fire‐affected landscapes. This is challenging given the lack of systematic data collected for this species. Maximum entropy modelling (Maxent) is a type of species distribution model with good predictive performance for presence‐only records. We used Maxent to model the distribution of the southern greater glider in the two years prior (2017–2019) and two years post (2020–2022) megafire across the East Gippsland region of Victoria, an area heavily affected by the 2019/2020 megafires. Whilst we found that the predicted short‐term area of occurrence of the southern greater glider remained relatively stable in the two years after megafire, a large area of marginal habitat was considerably reduced. We interpret this result as a potential contraction of suitable habitat where southern greater gliders may become isolated. Post fire, higher elevation areas and locations that experienced comparatively lower fire severity and a lower fire frequency had a higher predicted occurrence of the southern greater glider. Understanding the role of fire in species survival is essential for effective biodiversity conservation and management of species. More comprehensive and systematic monitoring in suitable and unsuitable areas will enhance our understanding of the distribution of the southern greater glider, including areas subject to wildfire.
Dexmedetomidine HCL (BXCL501) as a potential treatment for alcohol use disorder and comorbid PTSD: A phase 1b, placebo‐controlled crossover laboratory study
Authors: Petrakis Ismene L. , Nolen Tracy , Vandergrift Nathan , Hirsch Shawn , Krystal John H. , De Vivo Michael , Sabados Jeff , Pisani Emily , Newcomb Jenelle , Kosten Thomas R.
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives

Noradrenergic dysregulation is important in the pathophysiology of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD); pharmacotherapies targeting adrenergic function have potential as treatment for comorbidity. Dexmedetomidine (sublingual film formulation—BXCL501; IGALMI) is a highly potent, selective ⍺2‐adrenergic receptor agonist and may be superior to other pharmacotherapeutic approaches. A within subjects, phase 1b safety laboratory study was conducted to evaluate adverse effects of BXCL501 when combined with alcohol; BXCL501's potential efficacy was also explored.

Methods

Heavy drinker participants with a diagnosis of or who were at risk for PTSD participated in three separate test days which included pretreatment with BXCL501 (40 µg, 80 µg or placebo) administered in a randomized, double‐blind fashion, followed by three testing conditions: alcohol cue reactivity, trauma‐induced reactivity, and IV ethanol administration. Safety outcomes included blood pressure (BP) and sedation. Exploratory outcomes included alcohol craving, trauma‐induced anxiety and craving and subjective effects of alcohol.

Results

Ten of twelve randomized participants competed the entire study. BXCL501 (80 µg) was associated with expected mild changes in BP and sedation; administration with alcohol did not affect those parameters. There were no clinically significant adverse effects. BXCL501 attenuated trauma‐induced anxiety and attenuated subjective effects of alcohol.

Discussions and Conclusions

BXCL501 is safe for use in humans who may drink alcohol while undergoing treatment. BXCL501 may be explored as a potential treatment for PTSD and AUD.

Scientific Significance

This is the first study to provide scientific support for BXCL501's potential to treat PTSD and comorbid AUD.
Island geologic connections: Reimagining Guernsey's spatial dynamics through land–sea–geologic relations, past and present
Authors: Ferbrache Fiona
Published: August 2024

This paper explores the resizing, reshaping and connectivity of islands by examining ongoing relations between land and sea in the context of the Channel Island of Guernsey. Ideas of materiality, temporality and vertical depth are employed to explore how contemporary tides and past sea‐level change impact island–island connections, and island–mainland connections between Guernsey and France. By focusing on the littoral zone as a space of encounter between land and sea, the paper explores some of the processes that challenge the notion of an island having fixed edges, emphasising the island's shape and size as always in flux. The paper then explores how tides alternatively reveal and hide material structures such as rocks and causeways, making the underwater scape temporally visible and differently accessible as an extension of land. It enables connections to be made and remade. This is demonstrated through the example of Guernsey and the tidal island of Lihou. The paper subsequently considers these ideas in the context of Quaternary sea‐level change. The land known as Guernsey alternated between literal island surrounded by water, and a steep‐sided plateau on the Normanno‐Breton plain, coinciding with interglacials and glacials. This connection is referred to as geologic. I argue that by acknowledging Guernsey's former visible connection with France, lack of contemporary visibility in the underwater scape does not render this a disconnection. Rather, the geologic, as further evidenced in the contemporary natural and built environment of Guernsey, continues through an underwater scape. It reappears in other Channal Islands and France, demonstrating ongoing connections at a land–sea–geologic interface. The paper argues for geology as a form of vertical depth. It calls for greater consideration of the geologic in the human geographical study of islands.
Linking trends of habitat types and plant species using repeated habitat mapping data
Authors: Lüttgert Lina , Jansen Florian , Kaufmann Rico , Seidler Gunnar , Wedler Axel , Bruelheide Helge
Published: August 2024

Aims

Trends in the extent of habitat types and species frequencies might not follow a simple pattern. However, data that are able to link those trends are scarce. Here, we use data from a repeated habitat mapping program to test consistency between habitat type and species change.

Location

Federal state of Baden‐Württemberg, Germany.

Methods

We derived temporal trends over several decades concerning: (a) the extent of all protected habitat types across the state, (b) plant species across the state, and (c) plant species within habitat types. We tested the consistency between trends in the extent of every protected habitat type with trends of those species that prefer that particular habitat type, as well as with mean trends of all species that occur within that particular habitat type.

Results

We found that, on average, most protected habitat types decreased in area, with the exception of forests, which showed positive trends. Species analysis showed positive trends for species preferring the habitat types scrubs, copses and field hedges, as well as bog, carr, swamp and alluvial forests. By contrast, negative trends were found for species preferring the habitat types heaths and semi‐natural grasslands, meadows and pastures. While non‐native species increased, species that were considered endangered decreased. A species’ trend across Baden‐Württemberg mostly followed the trend of the species’ preferred habitat type. However, within some habitat types, the mean species’ trend did not follow the trend of those habitat types’ extent. Decreasing species within habitat types were especially those that preferred each particular habitat type.

Conclusions

Our results point to an ongoing turnover of floristic composition, and thus to changes in habitat quality within habitat types. This implies that future monitoring programs should track temporal trends of both habitat types and the species occurring in these habitat types as a measure of habitat quality, because they can show diverging trends.
Optimal self‐insurance with genetic testing and state‐dependent utility
Authors: Crainich David
Published: August 2024

I analyze how genetic testing modifies prevention actions that reduce the health and financial consequences of disease. Specifically, I determine whether individuals adjust their prevention behaviour according to the available genetic information when insurers are allowed to use test results for rate‐making purposes (laissez‐faire) and when they are not (information ban). I show that individuals exploit genetic information in the laissez‐faire regime. In the information ban regime, they do so when separating equilibria prevail, but not in case of a pooling equilibrium. None of these equilibria, however, leads to the maximization of the social welfare function. I, therefore, discuss for each potential scenario the instruments likely to restore optimality.
‘How can you be friends with that fatty?’: The othered body in narratives on weight‐based bullying
Authors: Eriksson Anna , Horton Paul
Published: August 2024

Weight bias in educational settings can lead to bullying and have a severe negative impact on the mental well‐being and educational experiences of school children. Indeed, extensive research has shown that children who are labelled overweight are more likely to be victims of school bullying and that weight‐based bullying can lead to loss of self‐esteem, lower self‐confidence, social isolation, higher levels of anxiety and the development of psychosomatic issues. In this article, we utilise Butler's concepts of performativity and othering to analyse three written narrative accounts of weight‐based bullying in schools, published in the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet. In doing so, we adopt a narrative approach to not only investigate how the narrators depict the bullying they were subjected to in their childhood and the effects it had on them, but also how they position themselves in their narratives. Two themes, ‘performative othering’ and ‘a changeable body’, are identified in the narratives. These demonstrate how the narrators were co‐constructed as different, othered and dehumanised, and how the normative cruelties to which they were subjected as children served to police their corporeality in line with societal ideals. Taken together, our findings point to the importance of listening to the stories of those subjected to bullying and not only addressing bullying in terms of the negative actions taken, but also in relation to broader societal norms.
The EAO Junior Committee—History, present and future activities
Authors: Becker Kathrin , Paterno Holtzman Lucrezia , Alexopoulou Maria‐Angeliki , Gil Alfonso , Pirc Miha , Pitta Joao , Patel Viraj , Feher Balazs
Published: August 2024

Objective

To describe the evolution and aims of the European Association for Osseointegration (EAO) Junior Committee (JC).

Materials and Methods

Former members of the EAO JC and members of the board were interviewed, and current projects and initiatives were summarized.

Results

The EAO JC was launched in 2007 as the first young committee in Europe. Despite initial skepticism, it became a famous initiative, and the concept was copied by other dental and medical associations and societies. Since 2010, the committee organizes summer camps allowing young talents to discuss, network and interact beyond traditional boundaries.

Conclusions

The EAO JC is giving fresh energy to the entire society and provides education and network opportunities for young clinicians and scientists.
Estimated economic costs of dental implants among older South Korean adults, 2015–2018
Authors: Go Hyeonjeong , Ahn Jeonghoon , Ahn Song Vogue , Shin Hosung , Amano Atsuo , Choi Youn‐Hee
Published: August 2024

Objective

Dental implants are a considerable financial burden for elderly people and their caregivers. This study aimed to calculate the estimated economic costs of dental implants on the Korean older population.

Materials and Methods

The economic costs of dental implants for adults aged 75 years and older were estimated from a societal perspective, considering both direct and indirect expenditures. We used data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service for the period 2015–2018 to estimate the medical costs. Noninsured medical costs were estimated from research on medical expenses by the National Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service. Indirect costs related to transportation fees and time loss were obtained. The Cochran Armitage trend test was performed to examine the trend of the economic burden of dental implants.

Results

The estimated economic costs showed from 2015 to 2018 (total costs: $26.54–55.66 million, total costs after discount: $17.11–39.56 million). Direct costs, including insured and noninsured medical costs, represented from $25.81 to $47.03 million. Indirect costs, including transportation and time costs, ranged from $0.73 to $1.63 million. The impact of the total dental implant costs was 0.0018%–0.0034% of the Korean annual gross domestic product and 1.03%–1.59% of the annual total costs of dental care benefits.

Conclusions

The estimated economic burden of dental implants significantly increased from 2015 to 2018 in older South Korean adults. These results will provide a foundation and guidance for further health economic studies on the burden of dental implants in the elderly population.
Unravelling the ties that bind: The intersection of obesity, osteoarthritis, and inflammatory pathways with emphasis on glucagon‐like peptide‐1 agonists
Authors: Jamal Naadir , Hollabaugh William , Scott Leon , Takkouche Sahar
Published: August 2024

This narrative review article explores the complex interplay between obesity, osteoarthritis, and their associated inflammatory cascades, offering a deeper understanding of the underlying of mechanisms of inflammation and potential therapeutic interventions targeting both diseases. Through examination of the shared inflammatory pathway of obesity and osteoarthritis, our objective is to directly elucidate the relationship between these two conditions, highlighting the promising role of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 agonists in modulating inflammation and its therapeutic implications for patients with obesity and osteoarthritis.
Bazedoxifene Inhibits Cell Viability, Colony‐Forming Activity, and Cell Migration in Human Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells and Improves the Treatment Efficacy of Paclitaxel and Gemcitabine
Authors: Huang Yaochen , Lin Jiayuh , Fu Xiangning , Li Lequn , Fu Shenging
Published: August 2024

Background

Bazedoxifene is a third‐generation selective estrogen receptor modulator that inhibits the IL6/IL6R/GP130 signaling pathway by inhibiting IL6‐induced homodimerization of GP130. Considering that the IL6/IL6R/GP130 signaling pathway is important in tumorigenesis and metastasis, bazedoxifene is thought to have an antitumor effect, which has been proven preliminarily in breast cancer and pancreatic cancer but has not yet been studied in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study is aimed at evaluating the antitumor effect of bazedoxifene in NSCLC.

Methods

A549 and H1299 NSCLC cell lines were employed and exposed to various concentrations of bazedoxifene, paclitaxel, gemcitabine, and their combinations for cell viability, colony formation, and wound healing assays to demonstrate the antitumor effect of bazedoxifene with or without paclitaxel or gemcitabine.

Results

MTT cell viability, colony formation, and wound healing assays showed that bazedoxifene was capable of inhibiting cell viability, colony formation, and cell migration in a dose‐dependent manner. In addition, bazedoxifene was capable of working with paclitaxel or gemcitabine synergistically to inhibit cell viability, colony formation, and cell migration.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the potential antitumor effect of bazedoxifene and its ability to improve the treatment efficacy of paclitaxel and gemcitabine.
Dose‐dependent induction of CYP3A activity by St. John's wort alone and in combination with rifampin
Authors: Hohmann Nicolas , Friedrichs Anna S. , Burhenne Jürgen , Blank Antje , Mikus Gerd , Haefeli Walter E.
Published: August 2024

The dose dependence of the effect of enzyme inducers and the effect of the combined administration of two inducers that exert their effect via the same induction pathway (pregnane X receptor) have not been well studied. Using oral midazolam microdoses (30 μg), we have investigated CYP3A4 induction by St. John's wort (SJW) in 11 healthy volunteers using low (300 mg/day containing 7.48 mg hyperforin), therapeutic (900 mg/day), and supratherapeutic doses of SJW (1800 mg/day) for 14 days. SJW was then co‐administered with rifampin (600 mg/day) for a further 7 days to evaluate the effect of the combined administration of two inducers. In addition, intravenous midazolam microdoses (10 μg) were administered before SJW, at SJW 1800 mg/day, and during administration of the two inducers to assess the hepatic contribution to total induction (semi‐simultaneous administration). Administration of SJW increased oral midazolam clearance 1.96‐fold (300 mg/day), 3.86‐fold (900 mg/day), and 5.62‐fold (1800 mg/day), and 17.5‐fold after the addition of rifampin. Concurrently, the clearance of intravenous midazolam increased 2.05‐fold (1800 mg/day) and 2.93‐fold (SJW + rifampin). These results show that rifampin significantly enhances the induction of the highest SJW doses both hepatically and overall and suggest that these metabolic effects occur predominantly in the gut. These findings also suggest that in drug interactions involving strong and moderate enzyme inducers, the perpetrator effects of the strong inducer are decisive for the interaction.
Wild Things: Planning for children in a traditional art museum
Authors: Middleton Margaret , Greenwald Diana
Published: August 2024

In 2022, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum opened the temporary exhibition Drawing the Curtain: Maurice Sendak's Designs for Ballet and Opera. Predicting most visitors would know Sendak as the creator of children's books such as Where the Wild Things Are, the Gardner team decided to consider families with children as potential visitors. Though the Gardner regularly offers family guides and children's programming, this would be the first time the Museum would explicitly welcome children in an exhibition. The result was a unique exhibition experience that visitors of a variety of ages could enjoy together. This article describes the process the team used to develop and design the exhibition, told from the perspectives of the fine arts curator and children's museum designer who worked together to make it happen.
Pathogenic relevance of antibodies against desmoglein 3 in patients with oral lichen planus
Authors: Didona Dario , Schmidt Morna F. , Meier Katharina , Mesas‐Fernandez Alberto , Maglie Roberto , Antiga Emiliano , Klemp Marisa , Yazdi Amir S. , Ghoreschi Kamran , Hertl Michael , Möbs Christian , Solimani Farzan
Published: August 2024

Background and objectives

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a T cell driven disorder that significantly impairs patients’ quality of life. Previous reports suggest that both cellular and humoral activities against desmoglein (dsg) 1 and 3 may be involved in OLP pathogenesis. Here, we aim to analyze the frequency of occurrence and pathological significance of anti‐dsg antibodies in a large cohort of OLP patients.

Materials and methods

OLP patients were screened for anti‐dsg antibodies by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in three tertiary referral centers. OLP sera with anti‐dsg antibodies were further analyzed by Western blot and dispase‐based keratinocyte dissociation assay (DDA) to identify the targeted dsg ectodomains and to assess their pathogenicity.

Results

Of 151‐screened individuals with OLP, only four patients (2.6%) with erosive OLP showed serum IgG against dsg1/3. Western blot analysis with recombinant dsg3 ectodomains revealed preferential recognition of the extracellular domain 5. By DDA with spontaneously immortalized human keratinocytes, none of the sera from these four patients induced acantholysis.

Conclusions

Activation of humoral immunity occurs prevalently in patients with erosive OLP, probably due to epitope spreading. OLP serum antibodies are unable to induce loss of intercellular adhesion in vitro, strongly suggesting that they are not disease causing but rather an epiphenomenon.
The Knife is Still in Our Backs: Reparations Washing and the Limits of Reparatory Justice Campaigns
Authors: Andrews Kehinde
Published: August 2024

The Black Lives Matter movement of 2020 has placed reparations firmly on the international agenda. This article discusses the concept of ‘reparations washing’ with reference to the measures of two British businesses, Greene King and Lloyd's of London, in acknowledgement of their historical roots in the slave trade, and the Government of the Netherlands’ public apology for the country's history of slavery. Reparations washing occurs when corporations or governments give a token nod to reparatory justice to enhance their image and to absolve them of institutional guilt. The article employs Malcolm X's metaphor of slavery, as sticking a knife into the back of the enslaved, to argue that in order to repair the harm caused, the knife needs to be removed and the wound healed. It then analyses the reparations demands contained in CARICOM's Ten Point Plan for Reparatory Justice which exposes the limits of reparatory justice campaigns. The paradox of reparations campaigns is that they ultimately leave intact a system founded on White supremacy and the exploitation of the Global South. It is therefore impossible for reparations to be realized without bringing an end to the current political and economic system. The article concludes that, ultimately, the value of reparations campaigns lies in their highlighting the need for revolution.
Global Reparations Agenda for Afrodescendants: An Overview of Recent Developments and the Way Forward
Authors: Enyia Amara
Published: August 2024

The push for reparations for Africans and people of African descent extends back generations, yet has gained substantial momentum since 2020 — a global inflection point that exemplified the polycrises facing the planet, including the global COVID‐19 pandemic, worldwide uprisings against state and police violence in response to the murder of George Floyd in the United States, stark income inequality, and multiple natural disasters. Against this backdrop, reparations advocacy became more visible and gained traction. This article explores the enabling factors that have contributed to this heightened visibility and the dynamics that have created a more global reparations agenda. It also provides a roadmap with emergent areas of caution and guidance for reparations advocates as they advance the work.
Phylogeny structures species' interactions in experimental ecological communities
Authors: Lemos‐Costa Paula , Miller Zachary R. , Allesina Stefano
Published: August 2024

Species' traits and interactions are products of evolutionary history. Despite the long‐standing hypothesis that closely related species possess similar traits, and thus experience stronger competition, measuring the effect of evolutionary history on the ecology of natural communities remains challenging. We propose a novel framework to test whether phylogeny influences patterns of coexistence and abundance of species assemblages. In our approach, phylogenetic trees are used to parameterize species' interactions, which in turn determine the abundance of species in a given assemblage. We use likelihoods to score models parameterized with a given phylogeny, and contrast them with models built using random trees, allowing us to test whether phylogenetic information helps to predict species' abundances. Our statistical framework reveals that interactions are indeed structured by phylogeny in a large set of experimental plant communities. Our results confirm that evolutionary history can help predict, and potentially manage or conserve, the structure and function of complex ecological communities.
Circulating endocannabinoidome signatures of disease activity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Dubbioso Raffaele , Iannotti Fabio Arturo , Senerchia Gianmaria , Verde Roberta , Iuzzolino Valentina Virginia , Spisto Myriam , Fasolino Ines , Manganelli Fiore , Di Marzo Vincenzo , Piscitelli Fabiana
Published: August 2024

Background and purpose

Preclinical studies of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have shown altered endocannabinoid (eCB) signalling that may contribute to the disease. Results from human studies are sparse and inconclusive. The aim of this study was to determine the association between serum levels of eCBs or their congeners, the so‐called endocannabinoidome, and disease status and activity in ALS patients.

Methods

Serum concentrations of 2‐arachidonoylglycerol and N‐arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA), and AEA congeners palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), oleoylethanolamide (OEA), eicosapentaenoylethanolamide (EPEA), 2‐docosahexaenoylglycerol (2‐DHG) and docosahexaenoylethanolamide (DHEA) were measured in samples from 65 ALS patients, 32 healthy controls (HCs) and 16 neurological disease controls (NALS). A subset of 46 ALS patients underwent a longitudinal study. Disease activity and progression were correlated with eCB and congener levels.

Results

Most circulating mediators were higher in ALS than HCs (all p < 0.001), but not NALS. Across clinical stages, ALS patients showed increased levels of PEA, OEA and EPEA (all p < 0.02), which were confirmed by the longitudinal study (all p < 0.03). Serum PEA and OEA levels were independent predictors of survival and OEA levels were higher in patients complaining of appetite loss. Cluster analysis revealed two distinct profiles of circulating mediators associated with corresponding patterns of disease activity (severe vs. mild). Patients belonging to the ‘severe’ cluster showed significantly higher levels of OEA and PEA and lower levels of 2‐DHG compared to NALS and HCs.

Conclusion

Circulating endocannabinoidome profiles are indicative of disease activity, thus possibly paving the way to a personalized, rather than a ‘one‐fits‐all’, therapeutic approach targeting the endocannabinoidome.
Genetic profiles of multiple system atrophy revealed by exome sequencing, long‐read sequencing and spinocerebellar ataxia repeat expansion analysis
Authors: Li Xu‐Ying , Lai Hong , Li Xian , Xu Fanxi , Song Yang , Wang Zhanjun , Li Qibin , Lin Ruichai , Xu Zhiheng , Wang Chaodong
Published: August 2024

Background and Purpose

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a progressive, adult‐onset neurodegenerative disorder clinically characterized by combinations of autonomic failure, parkinsonism, cerebellar ataxia and pyramidal signs. Although a few genetic factors have been reported to contribute to the disease, its mutational profiles have not been systemically studied.

Methods

To address the genetic profiles of clinically diagnosed MSA patients, exome sequencing and triplet repeat detection was conducted in 205 MSA patients, including one familial case. The pathogenicity of variants was determined according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and the Association for Molecular Pathology guidelines.

Results

In the familial patient, a novel heterozygous COQ2 pathogenic variant (p.Ala351Thr) was identified in the MSA pedigree. In the sporadic patients, 29 pathogenic variants were revealed in 21 genes, and the PARK7 p.Ala104Thr variant was significantly associated with MSA (p = 0.0018). Moreover, burden tests demonstrated that the pathogenic variants were enriched in cerebellar ataxia‐related genes in patients. Furthermore, repeat expansion analyses revealed that two patients carried the pathogenic CAG repeat expansion in the CACNA1A gene (SCA6), one patient carried the (ACAGG)exp/(ACAGG)exp expansion in RFC1 and one carried the GAA‐pure expansion in FGF14 gene.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a novel COQ2 pathogenic variant was identified in a familial MSA patient, and repeat expansions in CACNA1A, RFC1 and FGF14 gene were detected in four sporadic patients. Moreover, a PARK7 variant and the burden of pathogenic variants in cerebellar ataxia‐related genes were associated with MSA.
Stress induced by children born of rape and the parental alliance in the DR Congo
Authors: Foussiakda Cécilia A. , Balegamire Juvenal B. , Mugumaarhahama Yannick , Gavray Claire , Blavier Adelaïde
Published: August 2024

Objective

The goal was to understand how children born of rape in the Democratic Republic of Congo induce parental stress and how parents work together to care for these children.

Background

Abundant literature is devoted to children born of rape, but nothing is known about the stress undergone by their parents in the care process.

Method

Twenty‐four rape survivor couples and 26 control couples with children aged 6–17 were subjected to Parenting Alliance Inventory (PAI) and Parenting Stress Index (PSI) tests in the east part of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Results

The parental alliance of the rape survivor couples was comparable to that of the controls. However, for survivor couples, mothers received more support from their husbands for girls than for boys. Parental stress was low among fathers. It was high among mothers of boys and low among fathers of girls. Finally, it was high among mothers of boys compared with fathers.

Conclusion

Boys born of rape induce high parental stress compared with girls born of rape, and mothers experience more stress than fathers.

Implications

Support programs for families of rape survivors must be gender specific for both parents and children, and preferably a family‐centered approach should be considered.
Global assessment of aquatic Isoëtes species ecology
Authors: Azzella Mattia M. , Vecchia Alice Dalla , Abeli Thomas , Alahuhta Janne , Amoroso Victor B. , Ballesteros Enric , Bertrin Vincent , Brunton Daniel , Bobrov Alexander A. , Caldeira Cecilio , Ceschin Simona , Chemeris Elena V. , Čtvrtlíková Martina , de Winton Mary , Gacia Esperança , Grishutkin Oleg G. , Hofstra Deborah , Ivanova Daniella , Ivanova Maria O. , Konotop Nikita K. , Larson Danelle M. , Magrini Sara , Mjelde Marit , Mochalova Olga A. , Oliveira Guilherme , Pedersen Ole , Pereira Jovani B. de S. , Ribaudo Cristina , Romero Buján María Inmaculada , Troìa Angelo , Vinogradova Yulia S. , Volkova Polina A. , Zandonadi Daniel Basílio , Zueva Nadezhda V. , Bolpagni Rossano
Published: August 2024

Isoëtes are iconic but understudied wetland plants, despite having suffered severe losses globally mainly because of alterations in their habitats. We therefore provide the first global ecological assessment of aquatic Isoëtes to identify their environmental requirements and to evaluate if taxonomically related species differ in their ecology.

The assessment resulted in an extensive new database on aquatic Isoëtes, ecological niche analyses, and descriptive species accounts. We compiled a global database that includes all known environmental data collected from 1935 to 2023 regarding aquatic Isoëtes. We then evaluated the environmental drivers of 16 species using 2,179 global records. Additionally, we used hypervolume analysis to quantify the ecological niches of the two species with the greatest number of records, finding significant differences and evidence that Isoëtes echinospora occupies a wider ecological niche than Isoëtes lacustris.

Fifty‐nine species (30% of the c. 200 Isoëtes species known today) were categorised as aquatic and were mainly reported in the Americas and northern Europe. About 38% of the aquatic species are threatened with extinction or are endemic to a small region, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List in 2023. Many species were determined to be sensitive to certain water physical and chemical factors, generally preferring oligotrophic conditions such as low total phosphorus, moderate total nitrogen, moderate to low pH, and low conductivity.

This analysis includes ecological data in the assessment of rare/threatened aquatic plants globally. This new database and the ecological analyses completed defined the ecological requirements of several species and identified knowledge gaps, which can aid management actions and future research.

This paper highlights ecological significance and environmental sensitivities of aquatic Isoëtes. The current level of knowledge is inadequate for a large proportion of known taxa. We affirm the extreme need to support global, collaborative initiatives on which to build future conservation strategies.
A red flag for public goods? The correlates of civil society restrictions
Authors: Smidt Hannah , Mitchell Neil J. , Bakke Kristin M.
Published: August 2024

Governments increasingly restrict civil society organizations (CSOs). Different theories converge on the expectation that CSOs are important for public goods. A largely unexplored implication is that increased restrictions on CSOs will signal the under‐delivery of public goods. Using data on government‐imposed restrictions on CSOs for a global sample of countries, we test this implication. Controlling for unobserved cross‐country heterogeneity, temporal shocks, and confounding variables, we find that the accumulation of restrictions on CSOs negatively correlate with public goods‐oriented government spending and positively correlate with corruption and clientelism in the future. Our evidence also suggests that the mechanism underpinning these findings is that persistent restrictions on CSOs negatively correlate with engaged society and, to some extent, protest. While global governance actors warn of the negative consequences of restrictions on CSOs, our analyses provide evidence that restrictions are indeed a red flag for governments' failure to live up to their public goods commitment.
Queer joy, queer killjoy: Queerness, nation, and affect in the Reykjavík pride parade 2000–2019
Authors: Vilhjálmsson Þorsteinn , Ellenberger Íris
Published: August 2024

In recent years, “queer joy” has become a prominent topic in queer circles in the West. It refers to a defiant sense of joy felt by LGBTQ + people in the face of an increasingly hostile environment. However, the political use of queer joy has a troubling history. In Iceland, the LGBTQ + movement has worked under the banner of joy since the turn of the century. This is encapsulated in the Reykjavík pride parade, which has, since its inception in 2000, been referred to as “The March of Joy.” This March has been a massive success. Recent parades have seen up to a hundred thousand people participate, a fourth of the Icelandic population. During the same period, the legal and social status of some Icelandic LGBTQ + people has improved vastly. Employing a queer‐historical and affect‐theoretical stance, this article analyzes the problematic side of this development. It traces how the national celebration of LGBTQ + people's joy has shifted the Icelandic national imaginary, strengthened Icelandic (homo)nationalism, and contributed to a forgetting and erasing of the past. While drawing some LGBTQ + people into the national imaginary, joy has excluded others, both critical, non‐homonormative queers and immigrants stereotyped as at once backwards, joyless, and homophobic. This shows both the potential power of queer joy and the dangers inherent in its political use. Queer joy, if it is to have its intended effect, must be radical, intersectional, and defiantly queer from the start. Inspiration for such queer joy may, we suggest, be drawn from the figure of the queer killjoy.
Complementary Field and Laboratory Batch Studies to Quantify Generation Rates of Perfluoroalkyl Acids in a Contaminated Agricultural Topsoil with Unknown Precursors
Authors: Haluska Alexander Arthur , Röhler Klaus , Fabregat‐Palau Joel , Alexandrino Diogo A. M. , Abramov Sergey , Thompson Katharine J. , Straub Daniel , Kleindienst Sara , Bugsel Boris , Zweigle Jonathan , Zwiener Christian , Grathwohl Peter
Published: August 2024

Soil microbiome changes and generation rates of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) precursors were studied in a contaminated agricultural field using a combination of field and laboratory batch microcosm studies. 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing was used to track how microbial community composition changed over time, while perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAA) generation rates were quantified using a combination of field and batch incubations combined with the direct total oxidizable precursor (dTOP) assay. The study site in Brilon‐Scharfenberg, North Rhine‐Westphalia, Germany, has PFAS contamination in the topsoil (0 to 30 cm) originating from compost. Generation rate constants of these short‐chain PFAA estimated from batch incubations (0.12 to 0.75 1/year) were higher but similar to rate constants from the fields (0.05 to 0.22 1/year). Long‐term field mass discharge data (2009 to 2023) suggest that at least 60 years are needed to remove 99.99% of short‐chain PFAA and their precursors. 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing data revealed a major impact of PFAA on the biodiversity of soil microorganisms, with batch‐incubated contaminated soils showing higher richness and diversity indexes than field control soils. However, most of these impacts occurred at lower taxonomical ranks and did not seem to have a prominent impact on the overall structure of the autochtonous microbial communities of the soils where PFAA were produced and accumulated. Overall, our findings demonstrate that well‐controlled aerobic batch test combined with the results of dTOP assay are a suitable approach for estimating short‐chain PFAA generation rates. Additionally, our research suggests that the complete removal of PFAA precursors from topsoil will take decades.
Studies in Parameter Estimation for Analytical Transport Equations
Authors: Mills Andrew
Published: August 2024

Three new programs have been developed to perform parameter estimation to assist in the calibration of analytical contaminant transport models. The Domenico equation was chosen as an example analytical model for each of the three programs rather than a model with the exact solution, because the former is a closed‐form expression involving significantly less processing time. One of the programs studied is a quasi‐exhaustive search method and the second is a successive parameter variation method. The third program is based on Box's Complex nonlinear, direct‐search optimization method. The three programs and an already available calibration tool (PEST) were compared in tests using data from two different sites in southeastern Pennsylvania. These tests demonstrated the validity of the three programs as examples to assist the calibration of groundwater analytical transport models. The final estimates for the parameter values for the three methods and PEST applied to the data from each of the two sites compared quite closely and, with two exceptions were well within an order of magnitude of each other. The three newly available programs individually should serve as calibrating tools indispensable for field hydrogeologists, environmental project managers, and others who have been asked to run analytical transport models. The results from the runs performed on the two sites indicate the Complex method to be the best option as a calibration tool, with the quasi‐exhaustive method and the successive parameter estimation method being acceptable alternatives.
Effects of Latilactobacillus sakeiLZ217 on Gastric Mucosal Colonization, Metabolic Interference, and Urease Expression in Helicobacter pylori Infection
Authors: Xia Chenlan , Chen Ziqi , Chen Yongqiang , Wei Fangtong , Wu Shiying , Zhou Qingqing , Li Ping , Gu Qing
Published: August 2024

Emerging evidence suggests differential antagonism of lactic acid‐producing bacteria (LAB) to Helicobacter pylori, posing challenges to human health and food safety due to unclear mechanisms. This study assessed 21 LAB strains from various sources on H. pylori growth, urease activity, and coaggregation. Composite scoring revealed that Latilactobacillus sakei LZ217, derived from fresh milk, demonstrates strong inhibitory effects on both H. pylori growth and urease activity. L. sakei LZ217 significantly reduced H. pylori adherence of gastric cells in vitro, with inhibition ratios of 47.62%. Furthermore, in vivo results showed that L. sakei LZ217 alleviated H. pylori‐induced gastric mucosa damage and inflammation in mice. Metabolomic exploration revealed metabolic perturbations in H. pylori induced by L. sakei LZ217, including reduced amino acid levels (e.g., isoleucine, leucine, glutamate, aspartate, and phenylalanine) and impaired carbohydrate and nucleotide synthesis, contributing to the suppression of ureA (28.30%), ureE (84.88%), and ureF (59.59%) expressions in H. pylori. This study underscores the efficacy of LAB against H. pylori and highlights metabolic pathways as promising targets for future interventions against H. pylori growth and colonization.
Effect of localized task‐based language teaching on Chinese secondary school English learners’ oral production in examination‐oriented contexts
Authors: Lu Jinmiao , Ma Qing , Li Shaofeng
Published: August 2024

Despite the abundance of pedagogical reforms conducted in task‐based language teaching (TBLT), few studies have fully explored the adaptation of TBLT to cater to the specific language learning requirements and cultural contexts of local communities. It is important to consider localized TBLT, referring to a context‐specific adaptation of the classical TBLT approach, tailored to meet the unique needs and circumstances of a particular teaching environment. This study seeks to bridge this gap by examining the effects of a localized TBLT approach on English as a foreign language (EFL) learners’ oral production in terms of complexity, accuracy, and fluency in examination‐oriented contexts. A total of 101 Chinese secondary school students participated in this study and were divided into two groups, namely, an experimental group (N = 50), which was taught employing the localized TBLT approach, and a comparison group (N = 51), which received traditional presentation–practice–production (PPP) instruction. The intervention spanned 15 weeks, with three instructional sessions per week. The results revealed that localized TBLT instruction had a significantly larger effect on fluency and complexity than traditional PPP instruction. The study has implications for localizing TBLT to better suit local contexts and achieve improved student learning outcomes in other similar EFL settings characterized by a focus on examination preparation.
Evaluation of physiochemical composition, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity of Kombucha produced from Thunbergia laurifolia as a potential functional food
Authors: Essiedu Justice Amakye , Areerate Panadda , Withayagiat Ulaiwan
Published: August 2024

Kombucha has gained global attention for its beneficial bioactive compounds. This study aimed to evaluate Thunbergia laurifolia tea as a potential substrate for Kombucha production due to its rich polyphenol content and biological properties, including antioxidant and anticancer properties, through monoculture and simultaneous mixed coculture fermentation. The pH and brix of the teas decreased significantly during fermentation, indicating sugar hydrolysis and organic acid synthesis by fermenting microbes. The alcohol content was higher in yeast monocultures (45.80 ± 0.00¬50.23 ± 0.08 g L−1) compared to mixed coculture fermented (CBY) tea (20.16 ± 0.00 g L−1). Total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity increased significantly in CBY tea compared to non‐fermented and monoculture teas. CBY also exhibited the highest cumulative phenolic compound content, including rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, gallic acid, rutin, catechin, and quercetin, compared to monoculture teas. Overall, Thunbergia laurifolia tea shows promise as a substrate for kombucha production, with improved bioactive constituents and antioxidant activity.
Multivariate analysis for understanding spoilage in cooked Turkey ham
Authors: Blanco‐Lizarazo Carla María , Sierra‐Cadavid Andrea , Ospina‐E Juan Camilo
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to comprehend the spoilage of cooked turkey ham caused by various Leuconostoc species using multivariate analysis to link the growth of these microorganisms, pH kinetics, and mesophilic counts for predicting ham spoilage at 8 and 12 °C. The methodology assesses changes in Leuconostoc spp. growth behaviour using the Baranyi and Roberts model, pH kinetics employing the Weibull model, and milkiness and swelling through quantitative descriptive analysis during storage at 8 and 12 °C, with artificial contamination of Leuconostoc carnosum and L. mesenteroides at 102 and 104 CFU g−1. Multivariate analysis encompasses linear quadratic discriminant and Pearson correlation analysis. Biokinetic growth parameters do not significantly differ among Leuconostoc species, temperatures, or inoculum levels. In discriminant analysis, pH is the most influential variable in spoilage grade classification, followed by LAB log counts. Furthermore, correlation analysis reveals a strong positive correlation between the rate of pH reduction and the storage time for spoilage onset.
Investigating the impact of lecithin addition on rheological and textural properties of oleogels prepared from soy protein isolate‐xanthan gum
Authors: Sinha Saumya Sonam , Upadhyay Ashutosh , Singh Anurag
Published: August 2024

This study delves into the influence of soy lecithin addition aimed at augmenting the structural recovery and enhancing textural similarities between protein oleogels and solid fats. The co‐oleogelation of soy protein isolate (SPI) and xanthan gum (XG) with lecithin was explored to structure sunflower oil. Oleogels incorporating lecithin concentrations ranging from 4% to 12% were examined for their textural properties and structural recovery performance. Results indicate that these oleogel formulations exhibit comparable textural properties to solid fats, signifying the potential of lecithin as a co‐oleogelator. Moreover, the incorporation of lecithin enhanced the structural recovery of the SPI‐XG oleogel, leading to no oil release when put under pressure, further emphasising its role in improving the overall quality of protein‐based oleogel systems.