bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peri‐operative pain management in adults: a multidisciplinary consensus statement from the Association of Anaesthetists and the British Pain Society
Authors: El‐Boghdadly Kariem , Levy Nicholas A. , Fawcett William J. , Knaggs Roger D. , Laycock Helen , Baird Emma , Cox Felicia J. , Eardley Will , Kemp Harriet , Malpus Zoey , Partridge Andrea , Partridge Judith , Patel Anjna , Price Cathy , Robinson Joyce , Russon Kim , Walumbe Jackie , Lobo Dileep N.
Published: September 2024

Background

Nearly half of adult patients undergoing surgery experience moderate or severe postoperative pain. Inadequate pain management hampers postoperative recovery and function and may be associated with adverse outcomes. This multidisciplinary consensus statement provides principles that might aid postoperative recovery, and which should be applied throughout the entire peri‐operative pathway by healthcare professionals, institutions and patients.

Methods

We conducted a directed literature review followed by a four‐round modified Delphi process to formulate recommendations for organisations and individuals.

Results

We make recommendations for the entire peri‐operative period, covering pre‐admission; admission; intra‐operative; post‐anaesthetic care unit; ward; intensive care unit; preparation for discharge; and post‐discharge phases of care. We also provide generic principles of peri‐operative pain management that clinicians should consider throughout the peri‐operative pathway, including: assessing pain to facilitate function; use of multimodal analgesia, including regional anaesthesia; non‐pharmacological strategies; safe use of opioids; and use of protocols and training for staff in caring for patients with postoperative pain.

Conclusions

We hope that with attention to these principles and their implementation, outcomes for adult patients having surgery might be improved.
PMEL p.L18del associates with beef quality of Kumamoto sub‐breed of Japanese Brown cattle
Authors: Yamashita Taito , Hatakeyama Toko , Hashimoto Syun , Inenaga Toshiaki , Kashimura Atsushi , Matsumoto Hirokazu
Published: September 2024

Japanese Brown cattle is the second most popular breed among Wagyu breeds and raised mainly in Kumamoto and Kochi Prefectures. Typical coat color of the Kumamoto sub‐breed is solid brown, but individuals with diluted coat color are sometimes born. We previously detected four SNPs in PMEL gene and identified p.L18del as the causative polymorphism of this diluted phenotype. The current study examined the association between the SNPs in PMEL gene and carcass traits of the Kumamoto sub‐breed. Our association analysis revealed that p.L18del had significant effects on BMS (p = 0.0263), meat brightness (p = 0.0179), meat firmness (p = 0.0102), and meat texture (p = 0.0252) and that del allele of this SNP might be useful to improve these carcass traits.
Impaired microvascular function in patients with sickle cell anemia and leg ulcers improved with healing
Authors: Catella Judith , Turpin Etienne , Connes Philippe , Nader Elie , Carin Romain , Martin Marie , Rezigue Hamdi , Nougier Christophe , Dargaud Yesim , Josset‐Lamaugarny Audrey , Dugrain Justine , Marano Muriel , Leuci Alexandre , Boisson Camille , Renoux Celine , Joly Philippe , Poutrel Solène , Hot Arnaud , Guillot Nicolas , Fromy Berengère
Published: September 2024

Leg Ulcer (LU) pathophysiology is still not well understood in sickle cell anaemia (SCA). We hypothesised that SCA patients with LU would be characterised by lower microvascular reactivity. The aim of the present study was to compare the microcirculatory function (transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2) on the foot and laser Doppler flowmetry on the arm) and several blood biological parameters between nine SCA patients with active LU (LU+) and 56 SCA patients with no positive history of LU (LU−). We also tested the effects of plasma from LU+ and LU− patients on endothelial cell activation. We observed a reduction of the TcPO2 in LU+ compared to LU− patients. In addition, LU+ patients exhibited lower cutaneous microvascular vasodilatory capacity in response to acetylcholine, current and local heating compared to LU− patients. Inflammation and endothelial cell activation in response to plasma did not differ between the two groups. Among the nine patients from the LU+ group, eight were followed and six achieved healing in 4.4 ± 2.5 months. Among thus achieving healing, microvascular vasodilatory capacity in response to acetylcholine, current and local heating and TcPO2 improved after healing. In conclusion, microcirculatory function is impaired in patients with LU, and improves with healing.
Balancing act: Exploring the interplay of production pressure and innovation/flexibility climates on employee well‐being
Authors: Aksoy Eda
Published: September 2024

This study explored the separate and joint effects of innovation/flexibility and pressure to produce climates on employee exhaustion, and ultimately, turnover intentions. Survey data collected from 335 full‐time employees across various sectors in Türkiye were analysed using a latent moderated structural equations approach. The findings revealed that, while innovation climates were inversely related to exhaustion and turnover intentions, production pressure climate had the opposite effect, which provided support for the job demands‐resources (JD‐R) model. Importantly, the study uncovered a significant interactive effect, indicating that the positive impact of production pressure on exhaustion was amplified under increased innovation demands. This finding provided support for the conservation of resources (COR) theory, suggesting that heavy and conflicting job demands depleted employees' psychological resources by impeding the deployment of defensive strategies. The findings contribute to innovation research by revealing that individual‐level competing demands of balancing exploration and exploitation through contextual ambidexterity may pose challenges to employees' psychological well‐being.
Integrating Patients Into Programmes to Address the Allergy Knowledge Practice Gap
Authors: Warner John O. , Spitters Sophie Jacoba Irma Maria
Published: September 2024

There is a wide gap between the first publication of new treatments with efficacy and their successful application in clinical practice. In many respects, the management of allergic diseases is a good exemplar of the knowledge/practice gap. It was assumed that systematic reviews and publication of guidelines would ensure timely delivery of effective care, but this has not proved to be the case. While there are many reasons to explain shortcomings in healthcare delivery, the lack of patient and carer involvement in the planning of research, evidence review, guideline development and guideline implementation is most compelling. To achieve adherence to evidence‐based guidelines consistently across all levels of the health service requires the implementation of integrated care with clear pathways through which patients can navigate. Quality improvement methodology could be employed to plan and implement integrated care pathways (ICPs). There is evidence that ICPs achieve improved outcomes for acute hospital‐based interventions, but less work has focussed on long‐term conditions where more diverse agencies are involved. At all stages, stakeholder representation from the full range of healthcare professionals, patients, their families, social services, education, local government and employers must be involved. In this article we review the step‐wise and iterative process by which knowledge is implemented into practice to improve patient experience and outcomes We argue how this process can benefit from the involvement of patients and their carers as equal partners, and we discuss how different initiatives have involved patients with allergic diseases. There currently is a gap in evidence that links patient involvement to improved outcomes. We recommend the use of the Core Outcome Sets (COS) and Patient Reported Experience Measures (PREMS) which have been developed for allergic diseases to monitor the effects of implementation research and the impact of patient and carer involvement on outcomes.
A hypothalamus‐lateral periaqueductal gray GABAergic neural projection facilitates arousal following sevoflurane anesthesia in mice
Authors: Wang Dan , Bao Chang , Wu Huimin , Li Jiannan , Zhang Xinxin , Wang Sa , Zhou Fang , Li Huiming , Dong Hailong
Published: September 2024

Background

The lateral hypothalamus (LHA) is an evolutionarily conserved structure that regulates basic functions of an organism, particularly wakefulness. To clarify the function of LHAGABA neurons and their projections on regulating general anesthesia is crucial for understanding the excitatory and inhibitory effects of anesthetics on the brain. The aim of the present study is to investigate whether LHAGABA neurons play either an inhibitory or a facilitatory role in sevoflurane‐induced anesthetic arousal regulation.

Methods

We used fiber photometry and immunofluorescence staining to monitor changes in neuronal activity during sevoflurane anesthesia. Opto‐/chemogenetic modulations were employed to study the effect of neurocircuit modulations during the anesthesia. Anterograde tracing was used to identify a GABAergic projection from the LHA to a periaqueductal gray (PAG) subregion.

Results

c‐Fos staining showed that LHAGABA activity was inhibited by induction of sevoflurane anesthesia. Anterograde tracing revealed that LHAGABA neurons project to multiple arousal‐associated brain areas, with the lateral periaqueductal gray (LPAG) being one of the dense projection areas. Optogenetic experiments showed that activation of LHAGABA neurons and their downstream target LPAG reduced the burst suppression ratio (BSR) during continuous sevoflurane anesthesia. Chemogenetic experiments showed that activation of LHAGABA and its projection to LPAG neurons prolonged the anesthetic induction time and promoted wakefulness.

Conclusions

In summary, we show that an inhibitory projection from LHAGABA to LPAGGABA neurons promotes arousal from sevoflurane‐induced loss of consciousness, suggesting a complex control of wakefulness through intimate interactions between long‐range connections.
Economic burden of pelvic sepsis after anastomotic leakage following rectal cancer surgery: A retrospective cost‐of‐illness analysis
Authors: Wienholts Kiedo , Nijssen David J. , Sharabiany Sarah , Postma Maarten J. , Tanis Pieter J. , Laméris Wytze , Hompes Roel
Published: September 2024

Aim

Anastomotic leakage following rectal cancer surgery remains a challenging complication, with a nonhealing rate of approximately 50% at 1 year. Pelvic sepsis may require tertiary treatment that encompasses additional admissions, extensive surgery and other types of interventions. The aim of this study is to analyse the financial burden of pelvic sepsis in a tertiary hospital.

Method

From 2010 until 2020, all patients referred to a tertiary centre for pelvic sepsis after low anterior resection for rectal cancer were prospectively registered and retrospectively reviewed. The cost analysis adhered to Dutch National Healthcare Institute guidelines and covered hospital‐imposed medical costs from salvage surgery to the last registered intervention, adjusted for inflation and priced in euros.

Results

This analysis included 126 patients, with an average total cost per patient of €31 131. Salvage surgery accounted for €21 326, with an additional €9805 for reinterventions and readmissions. Salvage surgery comprised nonrestorative surgery in 48% and restorative salvage surgery in the remaining cases. Length of hospital stay averaged 9.6 days on the general ward and 0.8 days in the intensive care unit. Common reinterventions included endoscopic vacuum sponge changes (n = 153), stoma closures (n = 59) and radiological abscess drainages (n = 51). Total costs did not differ significantly between nonrestorative surgery and restorative surgery (mean = €31 950 vs. €30 362, respectively; p = 0.893).

Conclusion

Treating pelvic sepsis after rectal cancer resection in a tertiary hospital carries a substantial economic burden, averaging €31 131 per patient, and this work helps to quantify the potential economic impact of innovative care to reduce anastomotic leakage.
1109. Metrosideros boninensis (Hayata ex Koidz.) Tuyama
Authors: Mochizuki Ko , Yoneda Kaoru , Yamanaka Masumi
Published: September 2024

We illustrate Metrosideros boninensis (Hayata ex Koidz.) Tuyama endemic to the Chichijima Island group of Ogasawara (Bonin) Islands with a detailed description and photographs of its natural habitat. Its pollination biology is discussed in relation to its floral traits with photographs of the pollinators.
Responses to Livelihood Precarity in Dryland India: Diversifying Out of Agrarian Distress
Authors: Karamchedu Ambarish
Published: September 2024

Scholars of critical agrarian political economy see agriculture in liberalization‐era India as a form of disguised unemployment, part of wider agrarian distress. This article engages with literature differentiating the class/caste responses to agrarian and non‐farm livelihood distress in India to understand the different diversification options that households have available. The article draws on research carried out in a village in dryland, Bt cotton‐dependent Telangana in south India to show these variegated practices. While Other Backward Caste households invested in livestock to cope with heavy Bt cotton investments and losses, Scheduled Caste households focused on the educated rural youth, relying on their non‐farm wage labour in jobs such as taxi driving. Despite rural–urban migration and higher levels of education, under/unemployment remains persistent for rural youth. In this context, Ryuthu Bandhu, a cash transfer programme pioneered in Telangana in 2018, proved crucial for rural livelihood survival in the study village, contributing up to 22 per cent of annual household incomes. However, negative average net incomes across all households show that attempts to diversify out of distress have been largely unsuccessful.
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided vascular interventions
Authors: Irisawa Atsushi , Nagashima Kazunori , Yamamiya Akira , Abe Yoko , Maki Takumi , Kashima Ken , Kunogi Yasuhito , Fukushi Koh , Sakuma Fumi , Inaba Yasunori , Tominaga Keiichi
Published: September 2024

With the recent development of interventional endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), EUS‐guided vascular interventions have seen increased clinical and research focus. This modality can be used to diagnose portal hypertension and treat portal hypertension‐related gastrointestinal varices and refractory gastrointestinal hemorrhage, including pseudoaneurysm. The vascular embolic materials used for treatment include tissue adhesives (cyanoacrylates), sclerosants, thrombin, and vascular embolic coils, all of which are associated with favorable results. The feasibility of EUS‐guided procedures, including portal vein stenting and portosystemic shunt formation conventionally performed percutaneously and transvenously, has also been demonstrated, albeit in animal studies. As EUS‐guided vascular intervention is a technique that may receive significant attention in the future, we provide a thorough review of the current evidence for its use.
Qualitative study exploring the experiences of sexual dysfunction in premenopausal women with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Hashim Rahab , Forde Rita , Parsons Judith , Ausili Davide , Forbes Angus
Published: September 2024

Aims

To explore the sexual experiences and interactions of women with type 1 diabetes to explicate an understanding of the impact of diabetes on women's sexual function. The study was conducted as part of a wider project to develop a patient‐reported outcome measure to assess sexual dysfunction (SD) in premenopausal women with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

A qualitative study using face‐to‐face and virtual semi‐structured interviews was conducted with premenopausal women with type 1 diabetes who have had some difficulties related to sexual functioning. Participants were recruited from two National Health Services (NHS) sites in the UK and from social media platforms. The data were analysed to generate themes using Framework Analysis approach.

Results

Eighteen women, aged 22–49, were interviewed (NHS sites n = 13; online n = 5). Five themes related to women experiences of SD were identified, these were; initiation of sexual activity, sexual confidence, sexual enjoyment, sexual engagement and sexual desire.

Conclusions

SD in women with type 1 diabetes is a complex phenomenon impacting their experiences and quality of life. SD is related to multiple interacting biopsychosocial factors related to diabetes, including blood glucose levels, diabetes treatments, technologies and complications. A targeted measure of SD for women with type 1 diabetes specifically would allow for these factors to be assessed routinely in clinical care.
The impact of vildagliptin as an add‐on therapy on matrix metalloproteinase‐14 levels, liver stiffness and subclinical atherosclerosis in adolescents with type 1 diabetes and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: ElKabbany Zeinab Anwar , Ismail Eman Abdel Rahman , Hamed Eman Tawfik , Elbarbary Nancy Samir
Published: September 2024

Aim

Many patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) met the histological criteria for non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which leads to cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality. Matrix metalloproteinase‐14 (MMP‐14) is involved in cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis.

Objectives

To assess the impact of oral dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor, vildagliptin, as adjunctive therapy on NASH in adolescents with T1DM and its effect on glycaemic control, MMP‐14 levels and carotid intima media thickness (CIMT).

Methods

Sixty adolescents with T1DM and NASH were randomly assigned to receive oral vildagliptin (50 mg once daily) for 6 months or not. Glycated haemoglobin, lipid profile, hepatic steatosis index, triglyceride glucose (TyG) index and MMP‐14 levels were assessed. Transient elastography with controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) was performed together with measuring CIMT.

Results

By transient elastography, 12 (20%) patients with T1DM with NASH had elevated liver stiffness ≥7 kPa (F2 stage or higher). Baseline MMP‐14 was positively correlated to insulin dose (p = 0.016), triglycerides and TyG index, CIMT, liver stiffness and CAP levels among the studied patients (p < 0.001 for all). After 6 months, patients with T1DM on vildagliptin therapy had significantly lower glycated haemoglobin, lipid profile, hepatic steatosis index and TyG index, as well as MMP‐14 (p < 0.001). CIMT, liver stiffness and CAP were significantly decreased post‐therapy compared with baseline levels and compared with the control group (p < 0.001). Vildagliptin was safe and well‐tolerated.

Conclusions

Administration of vildagliptin for adolescents with T1DM and NASH improved glycaemic control, dyslipidaemia and MMP‐14 levels and decreased liver stiffness and CIMT; hence, reducing subclinical atherosclerosis and disease progression.
Media representation of members of parliament in Egypt: A reality of gender imbalance
Authors: Yefet Bosmat , Friedberg Chen
Published: September 2024

This study joins recent studies that explore the meanings of the political representation of women resulting from a gender quota, through examination of their media representation. Drawing on studies on gendered mediation and women's political representation and using a content analysis method, we examine the quantity and the quality of gender media representation of Egyptian members of parliament. The findings show a nuanced picture in which the media simultaneously propagates a conservative perspective alongside progressive and egalitarian ones. Female representatives receive less media coverage and are associated with feminine topics in a way that reproduces the gender hierarchical masculine/feminine and private/public distinction within the political sphere. Nevertheless, this biased coverage coexists with an empowering representation whereby women are more heard than seen and associated with core parliamentary activities. We conclude by addressing the potential and limits of this representation, which may alter perceptions regarding women's political participation under authoritarianism.
Risk of Healing Complications Following Alveolar Process Fractures in the Primary Dentition: A Retrospective Clinical Cohort Study
Authors: Kevci Mir , Lauridsen Eva , Andersson Lars
Published: September 2024

Background/Aim

Alveolar bone process fractures in preschool children are not well documented in the literature. Alveolar process fractures are located very close to primary teeth and permanent tooth germs. This study investigates the risk of healing complications following alveolar process fractures in the primary dentition and potential sequelae in the permanent dentition.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 21 patients with 49 primary teeth involved in an alveolar fracture. The follow‐up protocol included clinical and radiographic examinations at specified intervals up to the age of 6 years. Healing complications in the primary teeth such as pulp necrosis, pulp canal obliteration, ankylosis, infection‐related resorption and premature tooth loss were examined. Sequelae in the permanent dentition was also registered when the permanent incisors had erupted.

Results

Over a 3‐year follow‐up, the incidence of premature tooth loss was 51.2% [95% CI: 34.1%–68.4%], pulp canal obliteration was 42.5% [95% CI: 27.1%–57.8%], and pulp necrosis was 8.9% [95% CI: 0.6%–17.3%] following an alveolar process fracture. No cases of ankylosis were observed. Sequelae in the permanent dentition primarily included demarcated opacities and hypoplasia with a risk estimated at 24% [95% CI: 13%–39%] and 9% [95% CI: 2%–21%] respectively.

Conclusion

Alveolar process fractures in primary dentition are associated with several healing complications in the primary teeth. Although the likelihood of severe complications in the permanent dentition is low, young children are still susceptible to developing sequelae in their permanent teeth. These results highlight the importance of awareness of dental injuries following alveolar process bone fractures in the primary dentition.
Life history of different giant water bug, Appasus japonicus (Belostomatidae: Heteroptera), populations throughout the Japanese Archipelago
Authors: Ohura Hinata , Matsumoto Miyuu , Yoshimura Aina , Ohba Shin‐ya
Published: September 2024

As temperatures in the Japanese Archipelago vary, species widely distributed in Japan should have different active periods, ecologies, and life histories. Information on developmental zero and effective accumulated temperature is necessary to estimate life history. The giant water bug, Appasus japonicus, found in rice paddies, ponds, and other lentic waters, is distributed throughout Japan except for the Ryukyu Islands, and is a representative taxon in which the male cares for the eggs. In this study, we investigated the life history, including the length of the breeding season, of different A. japonicus populations from Hokkaido, Ibaraki, Hyogo, and Nagasaki. The developmental period, developmental zero, and effective accumulated temperature of the eggs and nymphs showed no significant differences among the populations. The life history for each population was estimated based on climate data. This showed that the Hokkaido population had a shorter and more extremely limited breeding season than the other populations. The estimated number of generations during one breeding season was approximately one in Hokkaido, two in Ibaraki and Hyogo, and three in Nagasaki. The estimated number of times males cared for eggs during the breeding season was less than one in Hokkaido, eight in Ibaraki and Hyogo, and twelve in Nagasaki. Although Belostomatidae may carry multiple egg masses during the breeding season, this study shows that the male of the Hokkaido population does not care for multiple egg masses.
Predation of salamander egg sacs by the water strider Gerris (Macrogerris) insularisMotschulsky (Hemiptera: Gerridae)
Authors: Yasuda Shona , Morii Ryota , Ikeda Hiroshi
Published: September 2024

Water striders (Hemiptera: Gerridae) are sucking predators that inhabit freshwater and marine environments. They prey mainly on insects that fall on the water surface, but they are also known to feed on amphibian eggs. Here, we report on the predation of egg sacs of Hynobius nigrescens (Caudata: Hynobiidae) by Gerris (Macrogerris) insularis. We observed predation on egg sacs of H. nigrescens by G. insularis at a pond in a mountainous area of Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. We also found egg sacs with predation marks probably made by water striders at a pond in the mountainous area of Nishimeya Village, Aomori Prefecture, Japan. Five water striders collected around the preyed egg sacs were identified as G. insularis. We filled three tanks with water and an egg sac, and three water striders that were collected at the site in Nishimeya Village were placed together in each tank. In two tanks, the jelly layer of the egg sac was partially cut in a horizontal manner, while in another tank, the jelly layer was removed on the part of the egg sac exposed on the water surface. Notably, the water striders exhibited predatory behavior only when the jelly layers were removed. Considering the results of the rearing experiment and the predation marks observed in the field, G. insularis is also likely to prey on egg sacs at the site in Nishimeya Village. Our study suggested that predation by G. insularis occurs when eggs are accidentally exposed due to disturbance of the jelly layer.
Effects of sodium copper‐ and sodium iron‐chlorophyllin primers on resin bonding to dentin
Authors: Taira Yohsuke , Egoshi Takafumi , Kaida Kei , Yamada Shizuka
Published: September 2024

This study evaluated the effects of two chlorophyll derivatives, sodium copper chlorophyllin (Cu‐Chl) and sodium iron chlorophyllin (Fe‐Chl), on the bond strength between a self‐curing luting agent (4‐META/MMA‐TBB resin) and dentin. Five aqueous primers containing 35% 2‐hydroxyethylmethacrylate with 0.007% Cu‐Chl, 0.07% Cu‐Chl, 0.007% Fe‐Chl, 0.07% Fe‐Chl, or neither Cu‐Chl nor Fe‐Chl (no‐Chl) were prepared. The extracted human dentin surfaces were etched with 10% phosphoric acid (10PA), primed, and bonded to a resin block using the 4‐META/MMA‐TBB resin. A conventional etching agent (10‐3) and 10PA without primer (PA/no‐primer) were used as controls. The microtensile bond strength was determined after 48 h. The arithmetic medians for 20 stick specimens were calculated and statistically analyzed using a nonparametric Steel‐Dwass test (α = 0.05). The maximum bond strength was achieved in the 0.007% Cu‐Chl group, followed by those in the 0.07% Cu‐Chl, 0.07% Fe‐Chl, 10‐3, 0.007% Fe‐Chl, no‐Chl, and PA/no‐primer groups. No significant difference was observed between 0.007% Fe‐Chl, 0.07% Fe‐Chl, and 10‐3. The bond strength to dentin etched with 10PA was influenced by the type and concentration of the chlorophyll derivatives applied. Cu‐Chl rather than Fe‐Chl should be useful as a component of surface treatment agents for bonding 4‐META/MMA‐TBB resin to dentin.
All's fair in love & war; except when that unfairness leaves domestic violence victims to pay the price
Authors: Delandro Stephanie R.
Published: September 2024

Divorces are an emotional battlefield requiring both parties to go to war over their fair share. With the addition of New York's ‘no‐fault’ divorce, the process was supposed to alleviate spousal disputes and help those who did not want to relive the trauma that got them there. Nevertheless, one group left behind through that reform is domestic violence victims. This Note explores the ramifications of courts not being required to consider a finding of domestic abuse during equitable distribution and proposes to amend the current pathways to clear the way for financial relief for victims looking to divorce their abusers.
Marine recreational fishery trends in total catch, catch per unit effort, and release rates in Delaware during 1981–2021
Authors: Whaley Nicholas , Fontana Julia , Hicks Matthew , Marsaly Benjamin Paul , Smoot Timothy , Bandlow Serena , Carlisle Aaron , Hale Edward
Published: September 2024

The impact of recreational fisheries on marine ecosystems is often overshadowed by commercial fisheries, although recreational fishing harvest can be substantial, especially for species that are either overfished or experiencing overfishing. Delaware is a small coastal state with ~1,000,000 residents and nearly 272,000 resident and non‐resident anglers. We used publicly available data for Delaware's recreational fisheries during 1981–2021 to determine the nine most caught fish species and to evaluate trends in total numbers caught, harvested, released, and catch per unit effort (CPUE). The top nine most frequently captured fish by recreational anglers were Summer Flounder (Paralichthys dentatus), Atlantic Croaker (Micropogonias undulatus), Bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix), Black Sea Bass (Centropristis striata), Weakfish (Cynoscion regalis), White Perch (Morone americana), Tautog (Tautoga onitis), Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis), and Spot (Leiostomus xanthurus). The proportion of fish released increased through time for all nine species, suggesting that the recreational fishery in Delaware is transitioning from a harvest‐oriented to a catch‐and‐release‐oriented fishery. Observations of higher release rates in recreational fisheries of Delaware are consistent with the findings elsewhere in the world for freshwater and marine systems.
Fossil Geyserite and Testate Amoebae in Geothermal Spring Vent Pools: Paleoecology and Variable Preservation Quality in Jurassic Sinter of Patagonia (Deseado Massif, Argentina)
Authors: Sagasti Ana Julia , Campbell Kathleen A. , García Massini Juan L. , Galar Amanda , Guido Diego M. , Gautret Pascale
Published: September 2024

Geyserite is a type of terrestrial siliceous hot spring deposit (sinter) formed subaerially in proximal vent areas, with near‐neutral pH, alkali chloride discharge fluids characterized by initial high temperatures (~73°C to up to 100°C) that fluctuate rapidly in relation to dynamic hydrology, seasonality, wind, and other environmental parameters. We analyzed sinters at the Claudia paleogeothermal field from the Late Jurassic (~150 Ma) Deseado Massif geological province, Argentinean Patagonia. The geyserite samples—with spicular to columnar to nodular morphologies—contain abundant microfossils in monotypic assemblages that occur in three diagenetic states of preservation. The best‐preserved microfossils consist of vesicle‐like structures with radial heteropolar symmetry (~35 μm average diameter), circular apertures, smooth walls lacking ornamentation, and disk‐ or beret‐like shapes. Comparisons with extant, morphologically similar organisms suggest an affinity with the testate amoebae of the Arcella hemisphaerica–Arcella rotundata complex and Centropyxis aculeata strain discoides. These species occur in active geothermal pools between 22°C and 45°C, inconsistent with the temperature of formation of modern geyserites. We propose that the testate amoebae may have colonized the geyserite during cooler phases in between spring‐vent eruptive cycles to prey on biofilms. Silica precipitation through intermittent bathing and splashing of fluctuating thermal fluid discharge could have led to their entrapment and fossilization. Petrographic analysis supports cyclicity in paleovent water eruptions and later diagenesis that transformed the opal into quartz. Spatially patchy degradation and modification of the silicified microorganisms resulted in variable preservation quality of the microfossils. This contribution illustrates the importance of microscale analysis to locate early silicification and identify high‐quality preservation of fossil remains in siliceous hot spring deposits, which are important in early life studies on Earth and potentially Mars.
Coping with collapse: Functional robustness of coral‐reef fish network to simulated cascade extinction
Authors: Luza André L. , Bender Mariana G. , Ferreira Carlos E. L. , Floeter Sergio R. , Francini‐Filho Ronaldo B. , Longo Guilherme O. , Pinheiro Hudson T. , Quimbayo Juan P. , Bastazini Vinicius A. G.
Published: September 2024

Human activities and climate change have accelerated species losses and degradation of ecosystems to unprecedented levels. Both theoretical and empirical evidence suggest that extinction cascades contribute substantially to global species loss. The effects of extinction cascades can ripple across levels of ecological organization, causing not only the secondary loss of taxonomic diversity but also functional diversity erosion. Here, we take a step forward in coextinction analysis by estimating the functional robustness of reef fish communities to species loss. We built a tripartite network with nodes and links based on a model output predicting reef fish occupancy (113 species) as a function of coral and turf algae cover in Southwestern Atlantic reefs. This network comprised coral species, coral‐associated fish (site occupancy directly related to coral cover), and co‐occurring fish (occupancy indirectly related to coral cover). We used attack‐tolerance curves and estimated network robustness (R) to quantify the cascading loss of reef fish taxonomic and functional diversity along three scenarios of coral species loss: degree centrality (removing first corals with more coral‐associated fish), bleaching vulnerability and post‐bleaching mortality (most vulnerable removed first), and random removal. Degree centrality produced the greatest losses (lowest R) in comparison with other scenarios. In this scenario, while functional diversity was robust to the direct loss of coral‐associated fish (R = 0.85), the taxonomic diversity was not robust to coral loss (R = 0.54). Both taxonomic and functional diversity showed low robustness to indirect fish extinctions (R = 0.31 and R = 0.57, respectively). Projections of 100% coral species loss caused a reduction of 69% of the regional trait space area. The effects of coral loss in Southwestern Atlantic reefs went beyond the direct coral‐fish relationships. Ever‐growing human impacts on reef ecosystems can cause extinction cascades with detrimental consequences for fish assemblages that benefit from corals.
Impact of Sugarcane Cultivation on C Cycling in Southeastern United States Following Conversion From Grazed Pastures
Authors: Gomez‐Casanovas Nuria , Blanc‐Betes Elena , Bernacchi Carl J. , Boughton Elizabeth H. , Yang Wendy , Moore Caitlin , Pederson Taylor L. , Saha Amartya , DeLucia Evan H.
Published: September 2024

The expansion of sugarcane, a tropical high‐yielding feedstock, will likely reshape the Southeastern United States (SE US) bioenergy landscape. However, the sustainability of sugarcane, particularly as it displaces grazed pastures, is highly uncertain. Here, we investigated how pasture conversion to sugarcane in subtropical Florida impacts net ecosystem CO2 exchange (NEE) and net ecosystem carbon (C) balance (NECB). Measurements were made over three full growth cycles (> 3 years) in sugarcane—plant cane, PC; first ratoon cane, FRC; second ratoon cane, SRC—and in improved (IM) and semi‐native (SN) pastures, which make up ca. 37% of agricultural land in the region. Immediately following conversion, PC was a stronger net source of CO2 than pastures, indicating the importance of CO2 losses related to land disturbance. Sugarcane, however, shifted to a strong net sink of CO2 after first regrowth, and overall sugarcane was a stronger net CO2 sink than pastures. Both stand age and low water availability during cane emergence and tillering substantially decreased its potential gross CO2 uptake. Accounting for all C gains and removals (i.e., NECB), greater frequency of burn events and repeated harvest increased removals and overall made sugarcane a stronger C source relative to pastures despite substantial C inputs from the previous land use and a stronger CO2 sink strength. Time since conversion substantially reduced C losses from sugarcane, and the NECB of SRC was similar to that of IM pasture but lower than that of SN pasture, indicating a rapid shift in the NECB of cane. We conclude that the C‐balance implications following conversion will depend on the proportion of IM versus SN pastures converted to sugarcane. Furthermore, our findings suggest that no‐burn harvest management strategies will be critical to the development of a sustainable bioenergy landscape in SE US.
A Global Comparison of Stream Diatom Beta Diversity on Islands Versus Continents Across Scales
Authors: Martín‐Devasa Ramiro , Jamoneau Aurélien , Passy Sophia I. , Tison‐Rosebery Juliette , Blanco Saúl , Borrini Alex , Boutry Sébastien , Budnick William R. , Cantonati Marco , Valente Adelaide Clode , Delgado Cristina , Dörflinger Gerald , Gonçalves Vítor , Jyrkänkallio‐Mikkola Jenny , Kennedy Bryan , Marquié Julien , Marques Helena , Papatheodoulou Athina , Pajunen Virpi , Pérez‐Burillo Javier , Raposeiro Pedro Miguel , Ritter Catarina , Serafim António , Teittinen Anette , Van de Vijver Bart , Wang Jianjun , Soininen Janne
Published: September 2024

Aim

To evaluate the patterns of stream diatom beta diversity in islands versus continents across scales, to relate community similarities with spatial and environmental distances and to investigate the role of island characteristics in shaping insular diatom beta diversity.

Location

Africa, America, Europe and the Pacific.

Time Period

Present.

Major Taxa Studied

Stream diatoms.

Methods

We compared diatom beta diversity between islands and continents at large scales (within biogeographic regions) in two study regions (America and Europe) and at small scales (within islands/equivalent areas in continents) in three regions (Africa, America and Europe) partitioning beta diversity into turnover and nestedness components. We used a partial Mantel test and distance–decay curves to assess how diatom beta diversity on islands and continents is affected by spatial and environmental distances. Finally, using island data from all four regions, we evaluated the relationship between island beta diversity and island latitude, area, age and isolation using linear models.

Results

At large scales, mean dissimilarities were higher on islands than in continents in Europe but lower in America. At smaller scales, the differences varied mostly depending on island isolation. Beta diversity was mainly caused by species turnover. Partial Mantel test and distance–decay curves revealed that spatial and environmental distances shaped diatom beta diversity at large, but not at small scales. Moreover, diatom beta diversity on islands was affected by island latitude, age and isolation, but not by island area.

Main Conclusions

Diatom beta diversity on islands versus continents and its responses to spatial and environmental factors are scale and region dependent. Incomplete colonisation, evolutionary processes and environmental filtering likely contribute to insular beta diversity, which further varies with island latitude, age and isolation. This study sheds new light on beta diversity of microorganisms on islands and suggests that beta diversity should be explicitly considered in island biogeographical research.
Comparison of corrosion behavior of primary/modified nickel slag with semi‐rebonded periclase‐chromite refractory
Authors: Yuan Hudie , Liu Yuchi , Yin Hongfeng , Xin Yalou , Tang Yun , Ren Xiaohu , Gui Dongyun
Published: September 2024

Semi‐rebonded periclase‐chromite refractories are commonly utilized in the working lining section of the molten pool in oxygen‐enriched top‐blowing furnaces for nickel production. Its resistance to nickel slag corrosion determines the safety and service life of the melting furnace. The composition of nickel slag influences the corrosion resistance of semi‐rebonded periclase‐chromite refractories. By comparing and analyzing specimens corroded by primary and modified nickel slag, the influence mechanism of w(CaO)/w(SiO2) variations on corrosion resistance of semi‐rebonded periclase‐chromite refractories was clarified. The results show that a spinel isolation layer is preferred to form at a lower w(CaO)/w(SiO2) ratio (< 0.576) and enhance the corrosion resistance of semi‐rebonded periclase‐chromite refractories. As the ratio increases, the slag viscosity falls and the corrosion products contain larger levels of Ca3Cr2Si3O12 and Ca3MgSi2O8, which prevent the creation of the isolation layer and establish a conduit for Ca2+ and Si4+ transport and reaction into the interior of the refractory.
Enhancement of strength and thermal shock resistance of MgO‐MgAl2O4 ceramic filters with microporous MgO powder: Effect of α‐Al2O3 micro‐powder content
Authors: Liu Ying , Yan Wen , Yan Junjie , Dai Yajie , Wang Xiao , Wang Qiang , Li Nan
Published: September 2024

In this work, MgO‐MgAl2O4 ceramic filters were fabricated from microporous MgO powder and α‐Al2O3 micro‐powder, in which microporous MgO powder was prepared using Mg(OH)2 as initial raw material. With the α‐Al2O3 micro‐powder content increased from 0 to 15 wt%, the tight packing and reaction sintering between MgO microparticles and Al2O3 microparticles promoted the formation and growth of magnesium aluminate spinel necks, reduced the apparent porosity of ceramic filter skeletons, decreased the pore size, and improved the strength of the filters. When the α‐Al2O3 micro‐powder content further raised to 20 wt%, the thermal mismatch between MgO microparticles and spinel microparticles caused a small amount of crack generation, which lowered the strength of the filter. Besides, after introducing the α‐Al2O3 micro‐powder, more spinel necks were produced due to a small amount of MgO solid dissolved in the spinel lattice during the thermal shock test, which enhanced the thermal shock resistance of the filters. When the α‐Al2O3 micro‐powder content was 15 wt%, the filter had excellent comprehensive performance, the bulk density and apparent porosity of the filter skeleton were 3.09 g/cm3 and 10.7%, and the compressive strength before and after thermal shock test was 3.48 and 3.70 MPa, respectively.
Does the work environment matter in shaping English as a foreign language teachers’ teaching for creativity: A mixed‐methods investigation into the roles of perceived climate, peer group interaction, and supervisory relationship
Authors: Ma Dongmin , Wang Yongliang
Published: September 2024

Teachers play a critical role in fostering students’ creativity, especially in English as a foreign language (EFL) classes, known as teaching for creativity (TfC). Despite this, no comprehensive study has explored how the work environment influences EFL teachers’ TfC. Therefore, this study investigates how various holistic work environment factors affect TfC among Chinese EFL teachers. Drawing on the dynamic componential model of creativity, the study employs a mixed‐methods approach, combining quantitative data from a survey of 406 EFL teachers analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling in Smart PLS 3, and qualitative insights from semi‐structured interviews with 20 EFL teachers analyzed in MAXQDA 2022. The quantitative results reveal that perceived climate and peer group interaction positively and significantly impact TfC, whereas supervisory relationship (SR) does not show significant effects. The qualitative findings validate these outcomes and offer deeper insights into how PC and PGI specifically facilitate or impede TfC, alongside explanations for the non‐significant role of SR. Additionally, the qualitative analysis identifies another influential factor on TfC: teacher–student interaction. These findings carry theoretical and practical implications for teacher educators and the professional development of EFL teachers.
Application of yellow mustard gum in preparation of egg‐free mayonnaise
Authors: Liu Ruoyan , Wang Xinya , Goff H. Douglas , Cui Steve W.
Published: September 2024

Yellow mustard gum (YMG) is a natural hydrocolloid extracted from the viscous fraction of the seed coat, a by‐product of mustard seeds, and possesses superior emulsifying capacity in emulsions. However, there is no application of YMG for commercial products. The demand for vegan mayonnaise (VM) has increased in recent years and the challenge is to maintain the original consistency and taste while replacing eggs from conventional mayonnaise. To obtain high‐quality VM and to investigate the potential of YMG as a food additive, YMG was applied to VM at 0%, 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%, and 1.0% (w/w) in this study. The physical properties (index of stability, rheological properties and particle size characterisation), storage stability (visual stability, microstructure observation and cold tolerance) and texture of YMG‐formulated VM were measured and compared with commercial products to assess the quality and market prospects. The results showed that the VM obtained higher stability, more non‐Newtonian flow behaviour, and a smaller droplet size with higher YMG content. After 90 days of storage, no separation occurred in the YMG‐added VM. YMG improves the shelf‐life of VM, and mayonnaise formulated with YMG has comparative or better texture properties compared with commercial counterparts. Overall, YMG‐added VM could be more appealing to consumers favouring plant‐based foods and have the potential to substitute for traditional products. YMG is beneficial to vegan product development with clean‐label requirements.
Meat fans' and meat reducers' attitudes towards meat consumption and hybrid meat products in the UK: a cluster analysis
Authors: Melios Stergios , Grasso Simona
Published: September 2024

Meat reduction, rather than total elimination, is emerging as a popular trend that fulfils most consumer demands. In this study, using survey results from 802 United Kingdom residents, we identified distinct groups of consumers based on their meat consumption habits and explored their attitudes towards meat reduction and their perception of hybrid meat products. Two distinct consumer segments were identified, named ‘fans’ and ‘reducers’. ‘Fans’ were unwilling to reduce their meat consumption, considering it a right that makes them feel good. They were more optimistic regarding environmental concerns and less enthusiastic about the idea of hybrid meat products. On the other hand, ‘reducers’, although they consumed meat, expressed feeling bad about it and reported high levels of environmental concerns. These differences were also reflected in their willingness to eat and buy hybrid meat products, as well as the desired type of meat and meat‐to‐plant‐based ratio in their chosen hybrid meat.
Variations in the germinal center response revealed by genetically diverse mouse strains
Authors: Aubin Anne‐Marie , Vdovenko Daria , Collin Roxanne , Balmer Lois , Coderre Lise , Morahan Grant , Lombard‐Vadnais Félix , Lesage Sylvie
Published: September 2024

The humoral response is complex and involves multiple cellular populations and signaling pathways. Bacterial and viral infections, as well as immunization regimens, can trigger this type of response, promoting the formation of microanatomical cellular structures called germinal centers (GCs). GCs formed in secondary lymphoid organs support the differentiation of high‐affinity plasma cells and memory B cells. There is growing evidence that the quality of the humoral response is influenced by genetic variants. Using 12 genetically divergent mouse strains, we assessed the impact of genetics on GC cellular traits. At steady state, in the spleen, lymph nodes and Peyer's patches, we quantified GC B cells, plasma cells and follicular helper T cells. These traits were also quantified in the spleen of mice following immunization with a foreign antigen, namely, sheep red blood cells, in addition to the number and size of GCs. We observed both strain‐ and organ‐specific variations in cell type abundance, as well as for GC number and size. Moreover, we find that some of these traits are highly heritable. Importantly, the results of this study inform on the impact of genetic diversity in shaping the GC response and identify the traits that are the most impacted by genetic background.