bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using ecosystem services to identify inequitable outcomes in migratory species conservation
Authors: Chester Charles C. , Lien Aaron M. , Sundberg Juanita , Diffendorfer Jay E. , Gonzalez‐Duarte Columba , Mattsson Brady J. , Medellín Rodrigo A. , Semmens Darius J. , Thogmartin Wayne E. , Derbridge Jonathan J. , López‐Hoffman Laura
Published: September 2022

Biodiversity conservation efforts have been criticized for generating inequitable socio‐economic outcomes. These equity challenges are largely analyzed as place‐based problems affecting local communities directly impacted by conservation programs. The conservation of migratory species extends this problem geographically since people in one place may benefit while those in another bear the costs of conservation. Thespatial subsidiesapproach offers an effective tool for analyzing such relationships between places connected by migratory species. Designed to quantify ecosystem services provided and received in specific locations across a migratory species’ range—and the disparities between them—the spatial subsidies approach highlights three axes of inequity: between indigenous and settler colonial societies, between urban and rural populations, and between the Global North and Global South. Recognizing these relationships is critical to achieving two mutually reinforcing policy goals: avoiding inequitable conservation outcomes in efforts to conserve migratory species, and ensuring effective long‐term conservation of migratory species. In demonstrating how the spatial subsidies approach enables the identification and quantification of inequities involving three migratory species (northern pintail ducks, monarch butterflies, and Mexican free‐tailed bats), we argue that a spatial subsidies approach could apply to migratory species conservation efforts worldwide under the context of “payments for ecosystem services.”
Letermovir for cytomegalovirus prophylaxis in high‐risk heart transplant recipients
Authors: Golob Stephanie , Batra Jaya , DeFilippis Ersilia M. , Uriel Matan , Carey Matt , Gaine Maureen , Mabasa Angelo , Fried Justin , Raikelkar Jayant , Restaino Susan , Hi Lee Sun , Latif Farhana , Yuzefpolskaya Melana , Colombo Paolo C. , Choe Jason , Majure David , Jennings Douglas , Pereira Marcus R. , Clerkin Kevin , Sayer Gabriel , Uriel Nir
Published: September 2022

Letermovir is a novel agent for the prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and disease that, unlike traditional CMV DNA polymerase inhibitors, does not carry the risk of myelosuppression. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and clinical application of letermovir for CMV prophylaxis in heart transplant (HT) recipients. Between November 1, 2019, and October 1, 2021, at a single, tertiary care hospital, 17 HT recipients were initiated on letermovir due to leukopenia while on valganciclovir. Fifteen (88%) had high‐risk mismatch (CMV D+/R‐). Median time on letermovir was 5 months (interquartile range, 2–8 months.) At the end of the study period, nine of 17 patients (52.9%) were still on letermovir and four of the 17 (23.5%) had successfully completed the prophylaxis window on letermovir and been switched to the pre‐emptive strategy. One patient developed clinically significant CMV viremia in the setting of being unable to obtain medication due to insurance barriers but was later successfully restarted on letermovir. One patient was unable to tolerate letermovir due to symptoms of headache and myalgias. Two patients developed low‐level non‐clinically significant CMV viremia and were switched back to valacyclovir. All patients had tacrolimus dosages reduced at time of letermovir initiation to minimize the risk of supratherapeutic tacrolimus concentration. One patient required hospitalization due to symptomatic tacrolimus toxicity. For HT recipients who cannot tolerate valganciclovir, letermovir presents an alternative for CMV prophylaxis. Close monitoring for breakthrough CMV and calcineurin inhibitor levels is necessary. Larger studies are required to further delineate its use and help provide further evidence of its safety and efficacy.
Randomized controlled trial of EndoRings assisted colonoscopy versus standard colonoscopy
Authors: Thayalasekaran Sreedhari , Bhattacharyya Rupam , Chedgy Fergus , Basford Peter , Subramaniam Sharmila , Kandiah Kesavan , Thursby‐Pelham Fergus , Brown James , Alkandari Asma , Ellis Richard , Coda Sergio , Goggin Patrick , Amos Mark , Fogg Carole , Longcroft‐Wheaton Gaius , Bhandari Pradeep
Published: September 2022

Objectives

The EndoRings device is a distal attachment consisting of two layers of circular flexible rings that evert mucosal folds. The aim of this study was to investigate whether EndoRing assisted colonoscopy (ER) improves polyp and adenoma detection compared to standard colonoscopy (SC).

Methods

Multicenter, parallel group, randomized controlled trial.

Results

Total of 556 patients randomized to ER (n = 275) or SC (n = 281). Colonoscopy completed in 532/556 (96%) cases. EndoRings removed in 74/275 (27%) patients. Total number of polyps in ER limb 582 vs. 515 in SC limb, P = 0.04. Total number of adenomas in ER limb 361 vs. 343 for SC limb, P = 0.49. A statistically significant difference in the mean number of polyps per patient in both the intention to treat (1.84 SC vs. 2.10 ER, P = 0.027) and per protocol (PP) (1.84 SC vs. 2.25 ER, P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Our study shows promise for the EndoRings device to improve polyp detection.
Testing the migration syndrome: Comparative fecundity of migratory and non‐migratory nymphaline butterflies
Authors: Wiklund Christer , Friberg Magne
Published: September 2022

Empirical studies have shown a positive relationship between migration and fecundity, suggesting a ‘migration syndrome’ that also includes delayed reproduction and an extended reproductive lifespan. At the same time, life history theory predicts that the cost of migration should result in lower fecundity because both traits draw from a common resource.

We test whether migration is associated with higher fecundity and delayed reproduction in five closely related butterfly species in the Nymphalini tribe. Two of these are migratory,Vanessa carduiandVanessa atalanta, and three are non‐migratory,Aglais urticae,Aglais io, andPolygonia c‐album, which appears in a diapausing and a non‐diapausing generation.

Laboratory experiment of this study demonstrated a higher lifetime fecundity in the non‐migratory speciesA. urticaeandA. io, compared with the migratory species. When reproductive output was measured in terms of egg mass over adult female mass, also the non‐migratory speciesP. c‐albumhad a higher reproductive investment than the two migratory species, and the non‐diapausing generation had a higher reproductive output than the diapausing generation. All species butP. c‐albumdelayed reproduction until 5–7 days after eclosion/emergence.

These results indicate that a migratory lifestyle carries a reproductive cost and suggests that the migratory habit has not resulted in selection for higher fecundity. However, the migratory species are highly fecund in a wider phylogenetic perspective, which leads to the conclusion that rather than selection having selected for high fecundity and delayed reproduction, these traits may be prerequisites for evolving a migratory lifestyle.
Occurrence of powdery mildew caused by Cystotheca kusanoi on Oak trees in China
Authors: Guan Guan‐Xiu , Liu Shu‐Yan , Murray Timothy D. , Tang Shu‐Rong
Published: September 2022

Quercus spp. (Fagaceae) are evergreen and deciduous trees or shrubs, of which some are keystone species in forest ecosystems. Oak trees are common host plants of the powdery mildews within the genus Cystotheca. Cystotheca kusanoi, previously treated as heterotypic synonym of C. lanestris, was recently reinstated as a species of its own based on morphological re‐examinations and phylogenetic analyses of collections on Quercus spp. in Korea and Japan. The hyphal appressoria and presence or absence of fibrosin bodies in conidia of Cystotheca spp. was so far unclear. The present morphological examinations and phylogenetical analyses revealed that a fresh collection of powdery mildew on Q. spinosa from northwest China (Tibet Autonomous Region), and two herbarium specimens on Q. serrata from southwest China (Sichuan Province) and Q. variabilis from southeast China (Jiangsu Province) within re‐evaluated 12 herbarium specimens of C. lanestris s. lat. on Quercus spp. belong to C. kusanoi. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of C. kusanoi from China. Additionally, this is the first report of Q. spinosa as a host for C. kusanoi. Fibrosin bodies were not found in the fresh specimens of C. kusanoi. Nipple‐shaped to lobed hyphal appressoria have been observed and are described in the genus Cystotheca for the first time.
First report of Colletotrichum aeschynomenes causing anthracnose on Camellia oleifera in China
Authors: Li Lingling , Li He
Published: September 2022

Anthracnose is a major disease of cultivated Camellia oleifera (tea‐oil tree) in China, with serious negative impacts on the yield and quality of cooking oil. In 2020, symptoms of anthracnose were observed on the leaves of tea‐oil trees in Hunan province, and Colletotrichum isolates were obtained from symptomatic leaf tissues. Morphological characterization and sequencing of ApMat gene region indicated that these isolates represented Colletotrichum aeschynomenes. Inoculation trial confirmed that C. aeschynomenes causes anthracnose on Ca. oleifera in China.
FENS‐Kavli Network of Excellence: Postponed, non‐competitive peer review for research funding
Authors: Dresler Martin
Published: September 2022

Receiving research grants is among the highlights of an academic career, affirming previous accomplishments and enabling new research endeavours. Much of the process of acquiring research funding, however, belongs to the less favourite duties of many researchers: It is time consuming, often stressful and, in the majority of cases, unsuccessful. This resentment towards funding acquisition is backed up by empirical research: The current system to distribute research funding, via competitive calls for extensive research applications that undergo peer review, has repeatedly been shown to fail in its task to reliably rank proposals according to their merit, while at the same time being highly inefficient. The simplest, fairest and broadly supported alternative would be to distribute funding more equally across researchers, for example, by an increase of universities' base funding, thereby saving considerable time that can be spent on research instead. Here, I propose how to combine such a ‘funding flat rate’ model—or other efficient distribution strategies—with quality control through postponed, non‐competitive peer review using open science practices.
Task requirements affect the neural correlates of consciousness
Authors: Andersen Lau M. , Vinding Mikkel C. , Sandberg Kristian , Overgaard Morten
Published: September 2022

In the search for the neural correlates of consciousness, it is often assumed that there is a stable set within the relevant sensory modality. Within the visual modality, the debate has centred upon whether frontal or occipital activations are the best predictors of perceptual awareness. Although not accepted by all as definitive evidence, no‐report and decoding studies have indicated that occipital activity is the most consistently correlated with perceptual awareness whereas frontal activity might be closely related to aspects of cognition typically related to reports. However, perception is rarely just passive perceptionofsomething, but more or less always perceptionforsomething. That is, the task at hand for the perceiver may influence what is being perceived. This suggests an alternative view: that consciousness is not one specific ‘function’ that can be localized consistently to one area or event‐related component and that the specific attributes of the neural correlates of consciousness depend on the task at hand. To investigate whether and how tasks may influence the neural correlates of consciousness, we here contrasted two tasks, a perceptual task and a conceptual task, using identical stimuli in both tasks. Using magnetoencephalography, we found that the perceptual task recruited more occipital resources than the conceptual task. Furthermore, we found that between the two conditions, the amount of frontal resources recruited differed between different gradations of perceptual awareness partly in an unexpected manner. These findings support a view of task affecting the neural correlates of consciousness.
Genetic determinants of circulating metabolites and the risk of stroke and its subtypes
Authors: Wang Rong‐Ze , Huang Shu‐Yi , Li Hong‐Qi , Yang Yu‐Xiang , Chen Shi‐Dong , Yu Jin‐Tai
Published: September 2022

Background and purpose

Circulating metabolites have been implicated in stroke pathogenesis, but their genetic determinants are understudied. Using a Mendelian randomization approach, our aim was to provide evidence for the relationship of circulating metabolites and the risk of stroke and its subtypes.

Methods

Genetic instruments of 102 circulating metabolites were obtained from a genome‐wide association study, including 24,925 European individuals. Stroke was extracted from the MEGASTROKE dataset (67,162 cases; 454,450 controls) and a lacunar stroke dataset (7338 cases; 254,798 controls). The magnetic resonance imaging markers of cerebral small vessel disease and microstructural injury were evaluated by a genome‐wide association study of white matter hyperintensities (N = 18,381), fractional anisotropy (N = 17,663), mean diffusivity (N = 17,467) and brain microbleeds (N = 25,862). The inverse‐variance weighted method Mendelian randomization was used as the primary analytical method, and directional pleiotropy and heterogeneity were examined in sensitivity analyses.

Results

A genetic predisposition to a higher level of cholesterol in small and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) was associated with risk of stroke (odds ratio [OR] 1.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08–1.21, p = 5.98 × 10−7), especially for large‐artery atherosclerotic stroke (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.19–1.52, p = 1.90 × 10−6). Total lipids in LDL particles were also associated with risk of stroke. A genetically determined higher cholesterol level in high‐density lipoprotein (HDL‐C) was associated with risk of intracerebral haemorrhage (OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.23–2.45, p = 1.66 × 10−3). No statistically significant association was found between genetic predisposition to circulating metabolites and magnetic resonance imaging markers of cerebral small vessel disease and microstructural injury.

Conclusions

Genetically determined levels of lipids in small LDL were associated with the risk of stroke, suggesting that a therapeutic strategy targeting small LDL levels may be crucial for stroke prevention. HDL‐C was positively associated with the risk of intracerebral haemorrhage.
Clinical features and reclassification of essential tremor with NOTCH2NLC GGC repeat expansions based on a long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Zhou Xun , Huang Hongyan , He Runcheng , Zeng Sheng , Liu Zhenhua , Xu Qian , Guo Jifeng , Yan Xinxiang , Duan Ranhui , Li Jinchen , Tang Beisha , Xu Yanming , Sun Qiying
Published: September 2022

Background and purpose

NOTCH2NLC GGC repeat expansions have been identified to be associated with essential tremor (ET). Our aim was to characterize ET patients with NOTCH2NLC repeat expansions versus non‐expansions and describe distinctive clinical features of repeat expanded patients with long‐term follow‐up according to the new tremor classification.

Methods

Participants included 597 ET pedigrees, 412 sporadic cases and 1085 healthy controls. Repeat expansions of GGC in NOTCH2NLC were screened, and comprehensive clinical features were investigated. A longitudinal clinical assessment and reclassification were performed in NOTCH2NLC expanded patients.

Results

In total, 27 ET pedigrees (27/597) and three sporadic patients (3/412) were identified with pathogenic NOTCH2NLC GGC repeat expansions (≥60 repeats). Intermediate‐length GGC repeats (41–59 repeats) were found in four sporadic ET cases and one control subject, and the frequency was higher than that in control participants (4/412 vs. 1/1085, p = 0.022). About 46 ET patients (43 familial cases from 27 pedigrees and three sporadic cases) with NOTCH2NLC GGC repeat expansions had higher Essential Tremor Rating Assessment Scale I, Essential Tremor Rating Assessment Scale II and Non‐Motor Symptoms Scale scores and lower Mini‐Mental State Examination scores than the patients without expansions. Patients with pathogenic GGC repeats were reclassified as pure ET (25/46), ET‐plus (11/46) and ET‐neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease (10/46) subgroups at 2–8 years of follow‐up.

Conclusion

Our results further supported that NOTCH2NLC GGC repeat expansions were associated with ET. Patients with pathogenic GGC repeats presented with more severe motor and non‐motor symptoms. Further long‐term follow‐up and subtype studies will help to define the role of NOTCH2NLC in ET.
Primary Sjögren syndrome‐related peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Liampas Andreas , Parperis Konstantinos , Erotocritou Maria Faidra , Nteveros Antonios , Papadopoulou Marianna , Moschovos Christos , Akil Mohammed , Coaccioli Stefano , Hadjigeorgiou Georgios M. , Hadjivassiliou Marios , Zis Panagiotis
Published: September 2022

Background and purpose

Primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) is a chronic, systemic, autoimmune disorder characterized by lymphocytic infiltrates of the exocrine organs, leading to sicca symptoms and parotid enlargement. pSS has been linked to various neurological manifestations, including peripheral neuropathy (PN). We aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the currently available evidence regarding pSS‐related PN.

Methods

A literature search in the PubMed database was performed, and 49 papers were eligible to be included in this systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Results

The pooled prevalence of PN in pSS is estimated to be 15.0% (95% confidence interval = 10.7%–20.7%). The mean age of pSS patients at PN diagnosis is 59 years. Among the patients with pSS and PN, 83% are females. Neuropathic symptoms usually precede or lead to the pSS diagnosis at a 2:1 ratio in patients with pSS‐related PN. The commonest type of pSS‐related PN is distal axonal polyneuropathy (80% of patients with pSS‐related PN), followed by sensory ganglionopathy. Peripheral and cranial mononeuropathies—particularly trigeminal—are also frequent. Risk factors for developing PN include increasing age and presence of vasculitis. Immune‐mediated pathogenetic mechanisms are discussed. Glucocorticoids are the most commonly used treatment option for managing pSS‐related PN, when associated with vasculitis, followed by the use of intravenous immunoglobulin.

Conclusions

PN is very common in pSS patients. Evidence on long‐term prognosis of PN in pSS is limited, and further research is needed. Research into the use of immunosuppressive medication in nonvasculitic neuropathies in the context of pSS merits further consideration.
Magnetic resonance imaging Locus Coeruleus abnormality in amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment is associated with future progression to dementia
Authors: Galgani Alessandro , Lombardo Francesco , Martini Nicola , Vergallo Andrea , Bastiani Luca , Hampel Harald , Hlavata Hana , Baldacci Filippo , Tognoni Gloria , De Marchi Daniele , Ghicopulos Irene , De Cori Sara , Biagioni Francesca , Busceti Carla Letizia , Ceravolo Roberto , Bonuccelli Ubaldo , Chiappino Dante , Siciliano Gabriele , Fornai Francesco , Pavese Nicola , Giorgi Filippo Sean
Published: September 2022

Background and purpose

Human neuropathological studies indicate that the pontine nucleus Locus Coeruleus (LC) undergoes significant and early degeneration in Alzheimer's disease. This line of evidence alongside experimental data suggests that the LC functional/structural decay may represent a critical factor for Alzheimer's disease pathophysiological and clinical progression. In the present prospective study, we used Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with LC‐sensitive sequence (LC‐MRI) to investigate in vivo the LC involvement in Alzheimer's disease progression, and whether specific LC‐MRI features at baseline are associated with prognosis and cognitive performance in amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment.

Methods

LC‐MRI parameters were measured at baseline by a template‐based method on 3.0‐T magnetic resonance images in 34 patients with Alzheimer's disease dementia, 73 patients with amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment, and 53 cognitively intact individuals. A thorough neurological and neuropsychological assessment was performed at baseline and 2.5‐year follow‐up.

Results

In subjects with Mild Cognitive Impairment who converted to dementia (n = 32), the LC intensity and number of LC‐related voxels were significantly lower than in cognitively intact individuals, resembling those observed in demented patients. Such a reduction was not detected in Mild Cognitive Impairment individuals, who remained stable at follow‐up. In Mild Cognitive Impairment subjects converting to dementia, LC‐MRI parameter reduction was maximal in the rostral part of the left nucleus. Structural equation modeling analysis showed that LC‐MRI parameters positively correlate with cognitive performance.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight a potential role of LC‐MRI for predicting clinical progression in Mild Cognitive Impairment and support the key role of LC degeneration in the Alzheimer clinical continuum.
Clinical presentation and neural correlates of stroke‐associated spatial delusions
Authors: Alves Pedro N. , Fonseca Ana C. , Pinho‐e‐Melo Teresa , Martins Isabel P.
Published: September 2022

Background and purpose

Incongruent beliefs about self‐localization in space markedly disturb patients' behavior. Spatial delusions, or reduplicative paramnesias, are characterized by a firm conviction of place reduplication, transformation, or mislocation. Evidence suggests they are frequent after right hemisphere lesions, but comprehensive information about their clinical features is lacking.

Methods

We prospectively screened 504 acute right‐hemisphere stroke patients for the presence of spatial delusions. Their behavioral and clinical features were systematically assessed. Then, we analyzed the correlation of their duration with the magnitude of structural disruption of belief‐associated functional networks. Finally, we described the syndrome subtypes and evaluated whether the clinical categorization would be predicted by the structural disruption of familiarity‐associated functional networks using an unsupervised k‐means clustering algorithm.

Results

Sixty patients with spatial delusions were identified and fully characterized. Most (93%) localized the misidentified places closer to home than the hospital. The median time duration was 3 days (interquartile range = 1–7 days), and it was moderately correlated with the magnitude of structural–functional decoupling of belief‐associated functional networks (r = 0.39, p = 0.02; beta coefficient regressing for lesion volume = 3.18, p = 0.04). Each clinical subtype had characteristic response patterns, which were reported, and representative examples were provided. Clustering based on structural disruption of familiarity‐ and unfamiliarity‐associated functional networks poorly matched the clinical categorization (lesion: Rand index = 0.47; structural disconnection: Rand index = 0.51).

Conclusions

The systematic characterization of the peculiar clinical features of stroke‐associated spatial delusions may improve the syndrome diagnosis and clinical approaches. The novel evidence about their neural correlates fosters the clarification of the pathophysiology of delusional misidentifications.
Batoclimab as an add‐on therapy in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients with acute attacks
Authors: Wang Yuge , Zhong Xiaonan , Wang Honghao , Peng Yu , Shi Fudong , Jia Dongmei , Yang Huan , Zeng Qiuming , Quan Chao , ZhangBao Jingzi , Lee Michael , Qi Jun , Chen Xiaoxiang , Qiu Wei ,   Batoclimab NMOSD Study Group
Published: September 2022

Background and purpose

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a severe neurological inflammatory disease mainly caused by pathogenic aquaporin‐4 antibodies (AQP4‐IgG). The safety and efficacy of the neonatal Fc receptor antagonist batoclimab addition to conventional intravenous methylprednisolone pulse (IVMP) therapy in patients with NMOSD acute attacks was assessed.

Methods

In an open‐label, dose‐escalation phase 1b study, NMOSD patients with acute myelitis and/or optic neuritis received four doses of weekly subcutaneous injections of either 340 mg or 680 mg batoclimab with concurrent IVMP and were followed up for 27 weeks. The primary end‐points were safety and tolerability. Secondary end‐points included pharmacodynamics and efficacy, with key efficacy assessment at week 4.

Results

In total nine NMOSD patients were enrolled, including two and seven in the 340 and 680 mg groups. Five patients had acute myelitis, while the remaining four had unilateral optic neuritis. Batoclimab add‐on therapy had an overall good safety profile without serious adverse events. In the 680 mg group, mean immunoglobulin G (IgG) reached its maximum reduction at the last dose (day 22). In the meantime, AQP4‐IgG was undetectable in six of seven subjects whose baseline AQP4‐IgG titers ranged from 1:32 to 1:320. Expanded Disability Status Scale score was reduced by 1.3 ± 0.4 at week 4 (2.7 ± 1.3) compared with baseline (4.0 ± 1.0).

Conclusions

Batoclimab add‐on therapy to IVMP is safe and tolerated in patients with NMOSD. Preliminary evidence suggests a beneficial neurological effect. A randomized controlled trial would be needed to prove the efficacy.
Small rivers, great importance: Refuge and growth sites of juvenile migratory fishes in the upper São Francisco Basin, Brazil
Authors: Moreira Marina Ferreira , Peressin Alexandre , Pompeu Paulo Santos
Published: September 2022

Studies of migratory fish species in Neotropical Basins have generally focused on adult fishes, especially on their reproductive migration, whereas sites of growth and refuge of juveniles remain poorly investigated. We aimed to evaluate if smaller rivers play a role in the life cycle of these species. We used 13 rivers of different sizes in the upper São Francisco Basin, Brazil. We found that smaller rivers, especially when draining regions close to floodplains, were the first places where juveniles moved after leaving floodplain lakes. We also found that individuals moved downstream as they grew, and were found in increasingly larger rivers that were more distant from floodplains. Currently, the best‐known strategy for conservation of neotropical migratory fishes is the maintenance of free‐flowing stretches encompassing necessary habitats for life cycle completion. We conclude that small tributaries near floodplain regions are also needed in these protected free‐flowing river systems.
The development of a new crop growth model SwitchFor for yield mapping of switchgrass
Authors: Liu Yanmei , Hastings Astley , Chen Shaolin , Faaij Andre
Published: September 2022

Switchgrass is a promising energy crop has the potential to mitigate global warming and energy security, improve local ecology and generate profit. Its quantitative traits, such as biomass productivity and environmental adaptability, are determined by genotype‐by‐environment interaction (GEI) or response of genotypes grown across different target environments. To simulate the yield of switchgrass outside its original habitat, a genotype‐specific growth model, SwitchFor that captures GEI was developed by parameterising the MiscanFor model. Input parameters were used to describe genotype‐specific characteristics under different soil and climate conditions, which enables the model to predict the yield in a wide range of environmental and climate conditions. The model was validated using global field trail data and applied to estimate the switchgrass yield potentials on the marginal land of the Loess Plateau in China. The results suggest that upland and lowland switchgrass have significant differences in the spatial distribution of the adaptation zone and site‐specific biomass yield. The area of the adaption zone of upland switchgrass was 4.5 times of the lowland ecotype's. The yield difference between upland and lowland ecotypes ranges from 0 to 34 Mg ha−1. The weighted average yield of the lowland ecotype (20 Mg ha−1) is significantly higher than the upland type (5 Mg ha−1). The optimal yield map, generated by comparing the yield of upland and lowland ecotypes based on 1 km2 grid locations, illustrates that the total yield potential of the optimal switchgrass is 61.6–106.4 Tg on the marginal land of the Loess Plateau, which is approximately twice that of the individual ecotypes. Compared with the existing models, the accuracy of the yield prediction of switchgrass is significantly improved by using the SwitchFor model. This spatially explicit and cultivar‐specific model provides valuable information on land management and crop breeding and a robust and extendable framework for yield mapping of other cultivars.
Multispectral image analysis detects differences in drought responses in novel seeded Miscanthus sinensis hybrids
Authors: Lazarević Boris , Kontek Mislav , Carović‐Stanko Klaudija , Clifton‐Brown John , Al Hassan Mohamad , Trindade Luisa M. , Jurišić Vanja
Published: September 2022

Drought tolerance in Miscanthus sinensis is a desirable trait because of its potential use to develop new varieties, namely intra‐specific hybrids, adapted to drought‐prone marginal lands. In this study, drought tolerance was evaluated on 8 M. sinensis intra‐specific hybrids (GRC1–GRC8). Plants were grown in the growth chamber (14/10 h, 25/20°C, 70% relative air humidity and 300 μmol m−2 s−1 irradiance). Drought was induced by withholding irrigation for 21 days (stress phase) and after re‐watering (recovery phase) for 7 days. Nondestructive multispectral 3D images for plant morphology, color, and chlorophyll fluorescence imaging were used to quantify drought‐induced changes on a weekly basis for the entire duration of the experiment. Total leaf area (TLA) and digital biomass (DB) responded most rapidly to water deficits (7–14 days), followed by leaf senescence (14–21 days), and finally, a drop in the maximum efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm; 21 days). Traits measured on the last day of the drought treatment were used to calculate the phenotypic plasticity. Significant differences in drought susceptibility and phenotypic plasticity were found among the studied hybrids. Drought treatment (21 days) reduced DB and TLA on average by 50%, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) by 20% and Fv/Fm from 0.79 (in control) to 0.69 in the less drought‐susceptible hybrids (GRC4 and GRC5), whereas in drought‐sensitive hybrids (GRC2 and GRC3), 21 days of drought reduced DB and TLA on average by 80%, NDVI by 45% and Fv/Fm dropped from 0.79 (in control) to 0.35. The more drought‐resilient hybrids showed lower phenotypic plasticity than their more sensitive counterparts, a stay‐green strategy enabled through lower biomass accumulation and by extension, reduced water usage. Multispectral imaging and image analysis enabled fast and nondestructive quantification of plant morphological and physiological responses under drought conditions and could be used as an effective screening tool for drought susceptibility.
Complex validation of novel mullite‐based ceramic filters for microfiltration purposes
Authors: Pittruff Peter , Młocek Witold , Jurków Dominik
Published: September 2022

The goal of this paper is to investigate a complex validation, developed by Rauschert in Poland, of casted ceramic filters for microfiltration. For disc manufacturing, a self‐developed material RaFo‐MF‐401e with a filtration membrane was used. The presented experiment was conducted on component, subsystem, and system levels. Component level analysis consisted of the investigation of mechanical strength, hardness, rough lifetime, and resistance against acids and alkalis. Annealing at high temperature and humidity was used to test the subsystem. The final system test was executed on the real filtration system. The final aim of the tests was to verify the filtration efficiency of a complete module (core and membrane) in a real filtration device. The filtration quality of the whole setup was very good and the particles in the permeate (filtrated solution) were smaller than 10 μm (defined as D99). Thus, the developed discs provide the expected filtration quality in the range of microfiltration.
High prevalence of IgE sensitization to inactivated influenza vaccines, yet robust IgG4 responses, in a healthy pediatric population
Authors: Tonto Prince Baffour , Nagao Mizuho , Suga Shigeru , Taniguchi Kiyosu , Hirayama Masahiro , Nakayama Tetsuo , Kumagai Takuji , Fujisawa Takao ,   the Influenza Vaccine Study Group
Published: September 2022

Background

Anaphylaxis following influenza vaccination is a rare but serious problem. The underlying immune responses are not well understood. This study elucidated the IgE and IgG antibody responses in healthy children and adolescents following inactivated influenza vaccines (IIVs).

Methods

The efficacy and safety of quadrivalent IIV (QIV) and trivalent IIV (TIV) were compared in healthy subjects aged 0–18 years. Serum IIV‐specific IgE, IgG, and IgG4 levels (sIgE, sIgG, and sIgG4) were measured with ImmunoCAP. Hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay was performed for each influenza virus subtype. Sera from earlier patients who developed anaphylaxis to different IIVs were similarly tested.

Results

A total of 393 subjects were enrolled: 96 were 6 months−2 years old, 100 were 3–5 years old, 100 were 6–12 years old, and 97 were 13–18 years old. No anaphylaxis was observed. Generally, QIV and TIV induced similar antibody responses. IIV‐sIgE levels rose significantly after vaccination in the 6 months–2 years old and 3–5 years old groups, did not change in the 6–12 years old group, and decreased in the 13–18 years old group. In contrast, the IIV‐sIgG4/sIgE ratio increased significantly after vaccination in all age groups. Sensitized subjects had significantly higher HI titers and IIV‐sIgG levels in the youngest age group and higher IIV‐sIgG4 levels in all age groups compared with the non‐sensitized. The IIV‐sIgG4/sIgE ratio in five patients with anaphylaxis was significantly lower than in age‐matched healthy subjects.

Conclusion

IIVs induce IgE sensitization in healthy children but also robust IgG4 responses that may protect them from anaphylaxis.
South Texas Water Resource Mental Models: A Systems Thinking, Multi‐stakeholder Case Study
Authors: Flores‐Lopez Chris , Turner Benjamin L. , Hanagriff Roger , Bhandari Ammar , Sinha Tushar
Published: September 2022

The Coastal Bend (CB), Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV), and Wintergarden (WG) subregions of south Texas co‐exist in similar socio‐economic contexts but rely on markedly different water sources (CB: precipitation; LRGV: surface water; WG: groundwater). This has led to unique agricultural practices and municipal policies and reinforced mental models adapted specifically to each subregion, both of which are critical to understanding structural causes behind current water use and future water sustainability. To better stakeholder mental models in each subregion, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with individuals with a significant stake in water resource use and management. Results indicated near unanimous consensus among farmers and other stakeholders that water supply is limited and will be increasingly stressed under continued urban population growth. Farmers expressed concern that it will become more difficult to continue farming if additional water resources are not available, while each subregion expressed their own unique concerns: growing bureaucratic oversight and growing population problems (CB), lack of inflows, poor water quality, and international disputes with Mexico (LRGV), and political subdivision, declining groundwater levels, and information technology costs (WG). Mental models were synthesized based on dominant themes expressed by respondents; we synthesized these into two systems thinking archetypes: Tragedy of the Commons and Success to the Successful. Though it is unreasonable to create blanket region‐wide policies, the adoption of under‐utilized conservation practices coupled to stakeholder outreach remains unexplored leverage points, given most stakeholders are unaware of the feedback processes continuing to threaten south Texas water resources.
Larval study revealed diversity and life‐history traits of crypto‐benthic eel gobies
Authors: Maeda Ken , Hanahara Nozomi , Uehara Masato , Tachihara Katsunori
Published: September 2022

Because adult and juvenile eel gobies usually hide within the burrows of muddy substrates, their diversity and life history have not yet been fully elucidated. We investigated larval specimens of the eel gobies collected on Okinawa Island in southern Japan. The genus Trypauchenopsis was previously thought to consist of only one species, but our larval collection identified two species, Trypauchenopsis limicola and Trypauchenopsis intermedia, distinguished by their species‐specific melanophore arrangements and differences in their fin‐ray counts. Taenioides kentalleni were previously known from only two specimens worldwide. A third specimen of this species has now been added from the larval collection. In addition to the three species above, Taenioides gracilis and Caragobius urolepis were identified and the larval morphologies of the five species were described for the first time. All the larvae collected in the present study were at late postflexion stage. T. limicola, T. intermedia and T. gracilis were presumably collected in the estuaries and beaches when approaching their adult habitats at the end of pelagic life. They were 8.5–10.3 mm in standard length, and otolith analysis suggests that their pelagic larval durations are a little longer than 1 month (average 34–37 days). The larval occurrence suggested that the spawning season of T. limicola is May–December, when the water temperature is warmer than approximately 20°C. Our work reveals that studying the larval stage can provide new information on the taxonomy and life history of the elusive cryptobenthic fish.
Shelf life extension of bread using ethanol emitters with different packaging materials
Authors: Vanmathi Mugasundari Arumugam , Anandakumar Sugumar
Published: September 2022

Ethanol emitters (EEs) in packaging is one of the innovative active packaging concepts. This study aimed to develop various concentrations of EEs and study their packaging effects on the shelf life extension of bread packed in different packaging materials, such as bioplastic (BP) and polypropylene (PP). The study revealed a significant increase in the total color changes of bread packed with different EE treatments, during storage. The moisture content of bread during storage varied from 12.41% to 27.54% for BP packaging material and 27.54%–24.15% for PP packaging material. During the storage period, the water activity of the bread samples gradually decreased from 0.96 to 0.61. The highest firmness was obtained in T3 BP packaging material (14.79 g), followed by T2 BP (14.09 g), T1 BP (13.56 g), T3 PP (13.10 g), T2 PP (12.06 g), and T1 PP (11.75 g), respectively. Statistically significant differences (p < .05) were observed in all the parameters among the bread samples with respect to storage period, packing material, and EEs.

Practical applications

Active packaging is a concept in the field of food packaging that has been developed to extend the shelf life of a product. Bakery products are perishable, and active systems (ethanol emitters) can help to improve their food quality and extend the shelf life.
A method to identify, dissect and stain equine neuromuscular junctions for morphological analysis
Authors: Cahalan Stephen D. , Perkins Justin D. , Boehm Ines , Jones Ross A. , Gillingwater Thomas H. , Piercy Richard J.
Published: September 2022

Morphological study of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), a specialised peripheral synapse formed between a lower motor neuron and skeletal muscle fibre, has significantly contributed to the understanding of synaptic biology and neuromuscular disease pathogenesis. Rodent NMJs are readily accessible, and research into conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease (CMT), and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) has relied heavily on experimental work in these small mammals. However, given that nerve length dependency is an important feature of many peripheral neuropathies, these rodent models have clear shortcomings; large animal models might be preferable, but their size presents novel anatomical challenges. Overcoming these constraints to study the NMJ morphology of large mammalian distal limb muscles is of prime importance to increase cross‐species translational neuromuscular research potential, particularly in the study of long motor units. In the past, NMJ phenotype analysis of large muscle bodies within the equine distal pelvic limb, such as the tibialis cranialis, or within muscles of high fibrous content, such as the soleus, has posed a distinct experimental hurdle. We optimised a technique for NMJ location and dissection from equine pelvic limb muscles. Using a quantification method validated in smaller species, we demonstrate their morphology and show that equine NMJs can be reliably dissected, stained and analysed. We reveal that the NMJs within the equine soleus have distinctly different morphologies when compared to the extensor digitorum longus and tibialis cranialis muscles. Overall, we demonstrate that equine distal pelvic limb muscles can be regionally dissected, with samples whole‐mounted and their innervation patterns visualised. These methods will allow the localisation and analysis of neuromuscular junctions within the muscle bodies of large mammals to identify neuroanatomical and neuropathological features.
Quantitative assessment of coat‐hanger ribs detected on three‐dimensional ultrasound for prenatal diagnosis of Kagami‐Ogata syndrome
Authors: Kuriki Akane , Hosoya Satoshi , Ozawa Katsusuke , Wada Seiji , Kosugi Yohei , Wada Yuka S. , Sekizawa Akihiko , Miyazaki Osamu , Kagami Masayo , Sago Haruhiko
Published: September 2022

Kagami‐Ogata syndrome (KOS14) is a rare disease characterized by omphalocele, polyhydramnios and a bell‐shaped thorax. Although the coat‐hanger appearance of the ribs on postnatal X‐rays is a key diagnostic finding of KOS14, its prenatal diagnosis remains challenging. We encountered a case of KOS14 diagnosed prenatally that showed omphalocele, polyhydramnios, and a bell‐shaped narrow thorax. The coat‐hanger angle (CHA) measured at the sixth thoracic vertebrae and the ribs using three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasonography was 39°, reflecting the coat‐hanger appearance of the ribs. Segmental uniparental disomy chromosome 14 (UPD(14)pat) was confirmed by a methylation analysis and microsatellite analysis after birth. The median CHA (minimum, maximum) in 25 normal fetuses was 19 (9, 26) degrees, and a sonographic CHA of 30° may be a border value for diagnosing KOS14. When the combination of omphalocele and polyhydramnios is found prenatally, 3D ultrasonography for CHA might aid in the differential diagnosis of KOS14.
The Role of Space and Place in Organizational and Institutional Change: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Wright April L. , Irving Gemma , Zafar Asma , Reay Trish
Published: September 2022

We present a systematic review of empirical articles investigating the role of place and space within the organizational and institutional change literature. In taking stock of the change literature, our aim is to better understand the nature and degree of scholarly engagement with concepts associated with place and space to inform a future research agenda. Our systematic review identified 290 empirical articles published between 1979 and 2020 that attended to organizational or institutional change and also engaged with space or place. Our analysis generated four archetypal perspectives that represent qualitatively different ways of viewing the role of place and space in how organizations and institutions change: functional perspective, situated perspective, experiential perspective, and mutually constituted perspective. We synthesize the four perspectives into a typology that reveals different levels of attention to change as process and to place and space as lived or physical phenomena, and cast light on different assumptions about the relationships between change and place or space that can guide future research.
Speed and Scaling: An Investigation of Accelerated Firm Growth
Authors: Belitski Maksim , Stettler Tatiana , Wales William , Martin Jeff
Published: September 2022

While most firms do not grow, a small number of firms are able to maintain and accelerate their growth over time. Researchers, practitioners, and policymakers continue to question the factors which increase a firm's chances of growing rapidly and becoming a more powerful economic driver. Using a robust longitudinal data set from the United Kingdom (UK) during the period from 2000 to 2017, we investigate the propensity of firms to accelerate growth in sales, employment, market share, and productivity. We report varying effects of firm characteristics, industry competitive factors, and regional factors as drivers of accelerated growth. This study will help policymakers and firm managers understand the forces behind different types of acceleration, and it provides a foundation for future research on the speed of firm growth.
Longitudinal alterations of cortical structural‐functional coupling in temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Chen Zexiang , Fan Binglin , Pang Linlin , Wei Minda , Lv Caitiao , Zheng Jinou
Published: September 2022

Background and Purpose

To investigate the longitudinal alterations of cortical structural‐functional coupling (SF coupling) in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) over a 2‐year follow‐up, thereby exploring the neuropathophysiological mechanisms of TLE.

Methods

Twenty‐eight TLE patients and 42 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. We used resting‐state functional MRI and diffusion‐weighted imaging to estimate and compare SF coupling at the multiscale network level (whole‐brain, modular, and regional levels). Then, we analyzed the relationships between the spatial patterns of SF coupling, the principal functional connectivity (FC) gradient, and the functional participation coefficient (PC). Finally, we related regional SF coupling changes between baseline and follow‐up to the expression of regional TLE‐specific genes.

Results

Compared with HCs, TLE patients showed higher baseline SF couplings within the whole‐brain, limbic, and default‐mode modules. SF couplings within visual and dorsal attention modules were increased at follow‐up compared to baseline. In all three groups, the spatial patterns of SF coupling aligned with the principal FC gradient and the functional PC. The longitudinal change in regional SF coupling in TLE patients was significantly positively correlated with the expression of the CUX2 gene.

Conclusions

Aberrant SF coupling was revealed in TLE and related to macroscale cortical hierarchies, functional segregation, and TLE‐specific gene expression; these data help increase our understanding of the neuropathophysiological mechanisms underlying TLE.