bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing climate‐induced range shifts of stream fishes using a consensus framework
Authors: Kirk Mark A. , Rahel Frank J.
Published: October 2022

Documenting climate‐induced range shifts of freshwater fish is difficult because there are few spatially representative, long‐term data sets with re‐surveys of the same location over time. While such standardised data sets would allow for the identification of range shifts, most data sets are confounded by changing sampling priorities and methodologies through time. Finding a robust framework for detecting climate‐induced range shifts thus remains a research priority. Using a database from stream surveys conducted during the period 1957–2019, we employed a multi‐method framework for determining whether 10 stream fish species (nine warm‐water, one cold‐water) have exhibited elevational range shifts within the North Platte River watershed, Wyoming, USA. By employing a combination of different approaches (predictive reference models, quantile regressions, spatial aggregations), we produced a consensus framework for determining whether observed range expansions and range contractions were consistent across species. The weight of evidence from our consensus framework (>50% of all modelling approaches) indicated strong support for upstream range expansions of three (33%) warm‐water species, including a long‐established nonnative species (common carp [Cyprinus carpio]). The consensus framework revealed no evidence for range contractions of one cold‐water trout species (brown trout [Salmo trutta]). As global climate change continues, the value of historical datasets for evaluating pre‐warming, baseline conditions will increase. Given the methodological limitations of different analytical approaches, our findings illustrate that consensus frameworks based on the weight of evidence can improve confidence in the detection of climate‐induced range shifts when robust historical data sets are lacking.
National de‐delegation in multi‐level settings: Independent regulatory agencies in Europe
Authors: Rangoni Bernardo , Thatcher Mark
Published: October 2022

National politicians in Europe have created independent regulatory agencies (IRAs) with significant powers over markets such as communications and energy. After delegation, they have engaged in institutional politicization of IRAs and undertaken numerous attempted or actual de‐delegations. Yet overall de‐delegation over the period 2000–2020 has been limited, as many de‐delegations have been abandoned, temporary or reversed, and also counterbalanced by extensions of IRA powers. The article examines different explanations for this pattern. It looks especially at Europeanization, which has operated through normative and particularly coercive mechanisms. EU coercion has involved threats of legal action, monitoring and enforcement of existing EU legal requirements, and EU legislation expanding IRA powers and protection. IRAs are more vulnerable to de‐delegation than trustee non‐majoritarian institutions because their position can be altered with simple legislative majorities. Yet even for such agents, the ability of national politicians to reverse delegation is constrained by multi‐level institutional settings.
Vacancies among appointees in U.S. federal agencies: Implications for employee attitudes and intentions
Authors: Rutherford Amanda , Hameduddin Taha
Published: October 2022

Attention to vacancies in appointee positions subject to U.S. Senate confirmation has grown dramatically. Research regarding appointee vacancies commonly assumes negative consequences—loss of political control, promotion of second‐rate subordinates, undermined teamwork—for public agencies though little empirical work exists to confirm such expectations. This study tests whether vacancies at the top of U.S. federal agencies influence job satisfaction and turnover intention among upper‐level employees. Using vacancy data and multiple waves of the Federal Human Capital Survey/Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey, we find that upper‐level employees report marginally higher levels of satisfaction when vacancies occur. Further, these vacancies have a negative association with individual‐level intent to leave an agency for another job in the federal government, signaling a higher likelihood that institutional knowledge is maintained.
The European Union's migration management aid: Developing democracies or supporting authoritarianism?
Authors: Norman Kelsey P. , Micinski Nicholas R.
Published: October 2022

The European Union and its member states have invested billions of euros in migration management programs that purport to promote “good migration governance” around the world. But what is the impact of migration management aid on governance outside of the EU? In this article, we theorise the impact of migration management aid on governance in recipient countries by analysing the key policy areas of intervention. To do so, we focus on the effects of the European Union Emergency Trust Fund for Africa and draw on data collected from policy and government documents, in addition to secondary literature, to understand how migration management aid negatively impacts institutions of governance in recipient countries. While migration management aid may build the capacity of states to monitor borders and prevent irregular migration, we argue that this fails to account for negative externalities including human rights abuses and increased surveillance for migrants and citizens alike.
Virtual reality to foster empathy in disability workers: A feasibility study during COVID‐19
Authors: Wilding Clare , Young Kimberleigh , Cummins Caroline , Bowler Craig , Dean Trent , Lakhani Ali , Blackberry Irene
Published: October 2022

Background

Empathy is a critical skill required by disability workers. Virtual reality may increase access to staff training to foster empathy.

Method

A mixed methods feasibility study investigated a custom‐built virtual reality program, IMercyVE, which aimed to immerse a disability worker in a first‐person perspective of having intellectual disability. Data were collected through online surveys (n = 9) completed before and after use of IMercyVE, and by videoconference focus groups (n = 6).

Results

Qualitative findings included that IMercyVE delivered a novel experience for participants and a distinctive mode of learning that assisted participants to deepen their levels of empathy. Descriptive analyses of the surveys indicated that participants' empathy increased after engaging with IMercyVE.

Conclusions

IMercyVE has the potential to be offered as a remotely delivered and flexible staff training modality suitable for building empathy. Further research with a larger sample is warranted.
D‐galactose‐induced cardiac ageing: A review of model establishment and potential interventions
Authors: Wang Sui‐sui , Zhang Xu , Ke Ze‐zhi , Wen Xiu‐yun , Li Wei‐dong , Liu Wen‐bin , Zhuang Xiao‐dong , Liao Li‐zhen
Published: October 2022

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is highly prevalent in an ageing society. The increased incidence and mortality rates of CVD are global issues endangering human health. There is an urgent requirement for understanding the aetiology and pathogenesis of CVD and developing possible interventions for preventing CVD in ageing hearts. It is necessary to select appropriate models and treatment methods. The D‐galactose‐induced cardiac ageing model possesses the advantages of low mortality, short time and low cost and has been increasingly used in the study of cardiovascular diseases in recent years. Therefore, understanding the latest progress in D‐galactose‐induced cardiac ageing is valuable. This review highlights the recent progress and potential therapeutic interventions used in D‐galactose‐induced cardiac ageing in recent years by providing a comprehensive summary of D‐galactose‐induced cardiac ageing in vivo and in vitro. This review may serve as reference literature for future research on age‐related heart diseases.
Structure–process interaction in mass transfer processes: Application of ethanol and ultrasound in a vascular structure
Authors: Saavedra Juan , de Oliveira Gomes Bruna , Augusto Pedro E. D. , Rojas Meliza Lindsay , Miano Alberto Claudio
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the application of ultrasound and/or ethanol technologies prior to convective drying in samples with a particular vascular structure (pineapple core). Pineapple cores were cut in parallel (Lc) or perpendicularly (Tc) oriented to vascular bundles (VB). Effects on drying kinetics (50°C, ~1.0 m/s), shrinkage, rehydration kinetics (25°C), size recovery, and texture (50% uniaxial compression) were evaluated. Drying kinetics was fitted to Page model and rehydration kinetics to Peleg model. As main results, a reduction in drying time up to 60% was observed when the combined pretreatment for 10 min was applied in Tc samples. Regarding shrinkage, the Tc samples better preserved their diameter (>53%), while the Lc samples better preserved their height (>73%) after drying, which was explained by the parallel orientation of the VB to each dimension. In addition, Tc samples showed higher rehydration rate while the Lc samples showed greater water retention (~12 more). After rehydration, samples recovered their height and diameter by more than 70%. Furthermore, principal component analysis suggested that differences in shrinkage due to VB orientation are very related to rehydration kinetics characteristics. These results contribute to better explaining the technology–process–structure interaction.

Practical Application

This work contributes to explain the interaction between structure, and ethanol‐ultrasound pretreatment during drying and rehydration process. Consequently, providing knowledge about condition on which is better to use these approaches. For instance, depending on the pretreatment time, drying process can be hindered or improved. Furthermore, these results help to find better drying strategies for faster fruits waste drying, since pineapple core can be used as food ingredient and animal feed. Therefore, contributing to circular economy reusing food processing waste.
Deposit Insurance and Depositor Monitoring: Quasi‐Experimental Evidence from the Creation of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
Authors: ANDERSON HAELIM , RICHARDSON GARY , YANG BRIAN
Published: October 2022

The Banking Acts of 1933 and 1935 insured deposits up to $5,000 and limited interest paid by commercial banks. This essay uses a treatment‐and‐control estimation strategy to determine how those reforms influenced depositors’ reactions to information about banks’ balance sheets by comparing preferred and regular depositors at New York state banks. Before deposit insurance, regular depositors reacted more to information about banks, while preferred depositors reacted less. After, this difference diminished and almost disappeared. This change indicates insurance reduced monitoring, although depositors’ continued response to some information indicates that large, uninsured depositors continued to monitor banks, as the legislation intended.
Safety and effectiveness of uterine fibroid embolization in patients with scarred uterus
Authors: Ma Saebyol , Jeon Gyeong Sik , Kim Kyoung Ah , Kim Hyeon Chul , Kim Yong Min , Lee Chan
Published: October 2022

Aim

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) in patients with a scarred uterus caused by a previous myomectomy or cesarean section.

Methods

A total of 140 patients who underwent embolization for symptomatic fibroids were included in this retrospective study. The patients were divided into two groups, those with a history of myomectomy and/or cesarean section (scarred uterus group, n = 56), and those without surgical history involving the uterus (no‐scar group, n = 84). Demographics, embolization details, outcomes, and complications were analyzed.

Results

The overall clinical success rate was 89.28% in the scarred uterus group and 95.24% in the no‐scar group. There was no statistical difference in infarction rate or change in fibroid volume in follow‐up magnetic resonance imaging between the groups. There was one major complication in the no‐scar group, but there was no statistical difference in complications between the groups. The mean follow‐up period was 25.9 months. The mean symptom‐free time was 27.2 months in the scarred uterus group and 21.9 months in the no‐scar group without a significant difference. There were no statistically significant differences in symptom changes, recurrence, and complication rates between the groups. Recurrence seen on imaging or regrowth was more common in the group with myomectomy history. However, there was no significant difference in symptom recurrence rates.

Conclusion

No statistically significant difference in technical and clinical outcomes was observed between the two groups. There was no significant increase in complication rates of UFE in scarred uterus group.
Consumer Information and Price Transmission: Empirical Evidence*
Authors: Loy Jens‐Peter , Pennerstorfer Dieter , Rroshi Daniela , Weiss Christoph , Yontcheva Biliana
Published: October 2022

We investigate how consumer information affects price adjustment in the Austrian retail gasoline market. Our measure of consumer information is obtained from detailed census data on commuting behavior, as commuters can freely sample prices on their commuting route and are thus better informed about prices. A threshold error‐correction model suggests that prices adjust more quickly if cost shocks exceed certain thresholds. Parametric and semi‐parametric regressions show that a larger share of informed consumers increases both transmission speed and pass‐through rate, but has no effect on the asymmetry of cost transmission.
Opportunity or Threat? Exploring Middle Manager Roles in the Face of Digital Transformation
Authors: Van Doorn Sebastiaan , Georgakakis Dimitrios , Oehmichen Jana , Reimer Marko
Published: October 2022

With the proliferation of automation technology, controversy concerning the impact of digital automation on middle‐managers’ strategic importance is rising. Some scholars adopt an ‘automation‐as‐a‐threat’ view to argue that digital automation replaces middle‐managers’ strategic value. On the contrary, others take an ‘automation‐as‐an‐opportunity’ view to underscore the role accumulation advantages digital automation offers for individuals in organizations. We acknowledge this debate and develop a contingency‐based role‐theoretical framework, suggesting that the impact of automation on middle‐managers’ strategic involvement depends on: (a) the nature of the middle‐management tasks subject to automation, and (b) the level of the individual middle‐manager's task‐related expertise and simultaneous role embeddedness – as defined by their position tenure. We test our framework using longitudinal survey data from German, Swiss and Austrian firms at four time points. Overall, our work takes an important step toward unravelling the complex and contingent impact of digital automation on middle‐managers’ strategic involvement in contemporary organizations.
Effects of odors on posture
Authors: Oleszkiewicz Anna , Pettke Karolina , Olze Heidi , Uecker Florian C. , Hummel Thomas
Published: October 2022

Evidence suggests that postural stability may benefit from olfactory exposure, but whether this effect is different for hyposmic and healthy subjects remains unknown and little attention has been paid to the hedonic valence of odors in this context. Forty‐five participants aged between 23 and 64 years were invited to this study, of whom 32 had normal olfactory function 13 exhibited olfactory deficits. Movement measurements were performed with the “Unterberger stepping test.” Participants walked in place with stretched arms for 8 periods of 30 s each, separated by intervals of approximately 15 s. During each of these 30‐s blocks one of the three odor conditions was presented to them: (a) pleasant odor, (b) unpleasant odor, and (c) odorless control. Both participants with normosmia and impaired olfaction moved to the left and right sides more when exposed to the unpleasant odor as compared to pleasant odor exposure or no odor. When smelling pleasant odors, participants presented shorter maximal anterior/posterior sway than during no odor exposure, but it was similar when smelling unpleasant odor. The study demonstrated strong effects of odors on postural stability with pleasant odors limiting and unpleasant enhancing postural sways.

Practical Applications

Odors affect postural stability. Although we fail to demonstrate that postural stability measurements can be applied as a supporting method in smell dysfunction diagnosis, the current study opens prospects for further explorations of the relationship between olfactory and vestibular systems. These efforts may eventually lead to practical solutions supporting postural balance in patients suffering from conditions adversely affecting the vestibular system.
Stimulation role of pollen grains in the initial development of Botrytis cinerea: The importance of host compatibility, cultivation status and pollen size
Authors: Kocsis Ivett , Petróczy Marietta , Takács Kolos Zoltán , Markó Gábor
Published: October 2022

Plant pollens and fungal spores are massively produced in natural habitats and large‐scaled agricultural areas, and the airborne transported biomass can be accumulated on relatively large crop surfaces. A pollen grain contains a specific chemical composition in quantity and quality, highly varied among plant species. So, the accumulated pollens could provide a species‐specific nutrient supply for the initial fungal development in a pollen trap. Thus, this could increase the variation of the pathogen infection risk in certain plants due to selection mechanisms such as host–pathogen coevolution, crop breeding or pollination type. However, the role of the pollen‐stimulated spore germination and the species‐specific differences in the pollen‐spore interferences is still less understood. Therefore, we performed a multispecies experimental comparison (including 20 plant species) to test the role of the taxon‐specific attributes (i.e. host–pathogen compatibility, cultivation, pollination type and pollen size) in the dose and temporal response of the spore germination in Botrytis cinerea. We found a strong pollen‐stimulating effect on spore germination; however, the triggering effect highly varied among plant species and differed between specific functional categories across temporal and concentration gradients. Specifically, the B. cinerea hosts, the non‐cultivated plants and species with larger pollen size, increased the spore germination's stimulation effects, but not the pollination type. The systematic taxonomic and functional differences might reflect indirectly the diversity of the pollens' chemical profile (i.e. composition matrix or specific trigger molecules) which different selection mechanisms might shape. In the crop–pathogen interactions, the pollen‐stimulation effect could play an essential role in early fungal development.
Interconnection between protein‐related chemical functional group spectral features of prairie oat (Avena sativa L.) varieties and ruminant relevant nutrition—Degradation, intestinal digestion and true nutrient supply to dairy cows
Authors: Prates Luciana L. , Yu Peiqiang
Published: October 2022

To our knowledge, the study interconnection between inherent chemical functional group spectral features and nutrient utilisation is still limited. The objective of this study was to test the adequacy of vibrational Fourier transform infrared attenuated total reflectance (ATR‐FTIR) spectroscopy as a fast tool to assess the interactive relationship between the nutritive value of the Prairie cool‐season oat (Avena sativa L.) varieties in dairy cows and inherent chemical functional group spectral features. The chemical functional group spectral features of the Prairie cool‐season oat varieties in western Canada were determined by Fourier transform infrared attenuated total reflectance spectroscopy. The protein‐related spectral parameters of chemical functional groups included peak height and peak area intensity of Amide I, Amid II, protein structural α‐helix and β‐sheet, and their ratios. The rumen degradation kinetics were determined using in situ techniques with four rumen‐canulated lactating dairy cows. The intestinal digestion was evaluated using a three‐step in vitro technique with 12 h preincubation. The experiment was an randomized complete block design. The data were analysed using the mixed‐model procedure of the Statistical Analysis System. The results showed that the interconnection between rumen degradation kinetics, intestinal digestion and true nutrient supply to dairy cows and protein‐related chemical functional group spectral features could be revealed by ATR‐FTIR with univariate and multi‐variate spectral analyses. These findings indicate that ruminant relevant nutritive value of cool‐season oats could be rapidly evaluated and predicted using oat‐specific functional group spectral characteristics which could be obtained by a non‐distractive bioanalytical tool of ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy.
Effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale) supplementation on testicular histology, semen characteristic, blood plasma parameters and reproductive performance in aged broiler breeder roosters
Authors: Nemati Zabihollah , Dehgani Parviz , Karimi Amir , Amirdahri Saeid , Kianifard Davoud
Published: October 2022

Higher long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids contents in roosters' sperm plasma membrane along with age‐related decrease in antioxidant defense make the spermatozoa very susceptible to lipid peroxidation. Ginger root contains abundant amounts of gingerol, shogaols, gingerdiol and other active compounds, which known as antioxidant compounds to enhance semen quality. The goal of the study was to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of ginger root on semen quality, blood chemistry, immune response, testicular histology and reproductive performance of Ross‐308 breeder roosters from 47 to 60 weeks of age. The feeding of ginger root resulted in an increase in parameters related to sperm forward motility and seminal total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and following there was a tendency to increase and decrease in seminal superoxide dismutase activity and malondialdehyde concentration, respectively; however, sperm concentration was not affected. There was an increase and tendency to increase in blood total protein and TAC in the supplemented group respectively. The roosters fed ginger supplemented diet had a higher spermiation index; and following there was tendency to increase seminal tubes spermatozoids number (p = 0.056) and repopulation index (p = 0.058). Despite the improved seminal antioxidant status and a tendency to lower embryonic mortality in the ginger‐received group, the fertility and hatchability rate of roosters were statistically insignificant. Supplementations of ginger root in ageing rooster's diet had a beneficial effect on sperm motility, seminal antioxidant status and testicular spermiation index.
Random mucosal rotating flaps for rostral to mid maxillary defect reconstruction: 26 dogs (2000‐2019)
Authors: Carroll M. , Morello E. , Olimpo M. , Giacobino D. , Buracco P. , Ferraris E.
Published: October 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility and the complications following single or double random mucosal rotating (transposition or interpolation) flaps for the closure of rostral to mid maxillary defects in dogs.

Materials and Methods

Medical records of dogs treated with single or double random mucosal rotating flaps after maxillectomy for oral lesions or traumatic loss of tissue, were evaluated. Clinical findings, surgery performed, outcome and postoperative complications (major and minor) were extracted.

Results

Twenty‐six client‐owned dogs were retrospectively included. Dogs underwent maxillectomy for canine acanthomatous ameloblastomas (9), oral squamous cell carcinomas (4), peripheral odontogenic fibromas (4), oral melanomas (3), oral fibrosarcomas (2), dentigerous cysts (2) and oral osteosarcoma (1) and trauma resulting in an oronasal fistula (1). Twenty‐three dogs underwent a single transposition or interpolation flap and three dogs were treated with a double transposition flap. Postoperative complications, including dehiscence or flap necrosis, occurred in six dogs.

Clinical Significance

Random mucosal rotating (transposition or interpolation) flaps are versatile when used to close rostral maxillary defects in dogs. Postoperative complications appear to be more likely when these flaps are used to close mid maxillary defects.
Deep phylogeographic splits and limited mixing by sea surface currents govern genetic population structure in the mangrove genus Lumnitzera (Combretaceae) across the Indonesian Archipelago
Authors: Manurung Jeprianto , Rojas Andrés Blanca M. , Barratt Christopher D. , Schnitzler Jan , Jönsson Bror F. , Susanti Ruliyana , Durka Walter , Muellner‐Riehl Alexandra N.
Published: October 2022

The Indonesian Archipelago accommodates the largest mangrove area in Southeast Asia and possesses the world's richest composition of mangrove species. The archipelago comprises areas of the biogeographic regions Sunda and Wallacea, separated by Wallace's line. Here, we used the true mangrove species Lumnitzera littorea and Lumnitzera racemosa as a study case for understanding the effects of phylogeographic history, sea surface currents, and geographical distance on genetic diversity and genetic structure. We sampled 14 populations of L. littorea (N = 106) and 21 populations of L. racemosa (N = 152) from Indonesia and used 3122 and 3048 SNP loci, respectively, genotyped using the ddRADseq approach. We assessed genetic diversity, genetic structure, and effective dispersal of the populations and related them to geographical distance and sea surface currents. Our study revealed low levels of genetic variation at the population level in Lumnitzera. Pronounced genetic differentiation between populations indicated two phylogroups in both species. While in L. littorea the two phylogroups were largely separated by Wallace's line, L. racemosa showed a northwest vs. southeast pattern with strong mixture in Wallacea. Our findings provide novel insights into the phylogeography of the mangrove genus Lumnitzera and the role of sea surface currents in the Indonesian Archipelago.
Rational determination of cefazolin dosage regimen in horses based on pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics principles and Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Kuroda Taisuke , Minamijima Yohei , Mita Hiroshi , Tamura Norihisa , Fukuda Kentaro , Kuwano Atsutoshi , Toutain Pierre‐Louis , Sato Fumio
Published: October 2022

A pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) approach was used to determine the best empirical dosage regimen of cefazolin (CEZ) after intramuscular (IM) administration of CEZ in horses. Seven horses received a single IM or intravenous (IV) administration of CEZ of 5 mg/kg bodyweight (BW) according to a crossover design. CEZ plasma concentrations were measured using LC–MS/MS. The plasma concentrations in these seven horses and those of six other horses obtained in a previous study with an IV CEZ dose of 10 mg/kg were modelled simultaneously using NonLinear Mixed‐Effect modelling followed by Monte Carlo simulations to establish a rational dosage regimen. A 90% Probability of Target Attainment (PTA) for a PK/PD target of a free plasma concentration exceeding MIC90 (fT > MIC) for 40% of the dosing interval was set for selecting an effective dosing regimen. The typical half‐life of absorption and bioavailability after IM administration were 1.25 h and 96.8%, respectively. A CEZ dosage regimen of 5 mg/kg BW q12h IM administration achieved therapeutic concentrations to control both Streptococcus zooepidemicus and Staphylococcus aureus. For the same dose, the fT > MIC after IM administration was significantly longer than after IV administration, and the IM route should be favoured by clinicians for its efficiency and convenience.
Spatial distribution and density of the invasive sea urchin Diadema setosum in Turkey (eastern Mediterranean)
Authors: Öndes Fikret , Alan Vahit , Kaiser Michel J. , Güçlüsoy Harun
Published: October 2022

The sea urchin, Diadema setosum, is a poisonous species that originates in the Indo‐Pacific and the Red Sea. Although this species has been recorded in several areas in the Mediterranean Sea, its habitat selection, density, distribution and ecological impacts have not been comprehensively documented to date. This study combined the diving observations (n = 53 sites) and local ecological knowledge (LEK) of SCUBA divers (n = 100) to provide information on the distribution and density of this invasive sea urchin on the Aegean and Levantine coasts of Turkey between September and October 2020. The results indicated that D. setosum was more prevalent along the southern coast of Turkey compared with the western coast, where it is colder. The highest densities of D. setosum were observed in rocky habitats at a depth range of 0–5 m. Moreover, the densities increased with increasing bottom temperatures (up to 150 ind./100 m2). Recent reports from the Levantine and south Aegean coasts highlighted that the densities of D. setosum increased dramatically during the past year. The results of the present study suggested that D. setosum provides shelter for a total of four fish species, including Chromis chromis, Gobius sp., Cheilodipterus novemstriatus and Thalassoma pavo. This species of urchin poses a threat due to its potential grazing and bioerosion effects in the Mediterranean. Thus, future studies should focus on the feeding ecology of D. setosum and the competition with native species that share the same habitat to obtain an improved understanding of the ecological impacts of this invasive species. Although the present study provides the first comprehensive dataset on the density and distribution of this invasive sea urchin for Turkey in the eastern Mediterranean region, we suggest that its population should be monitored for long periods using direct observations, LEK and citizen science.
A broadly conserved fungal alcohol oxidase (AOX) facilitates fungal invasion of plants
Authors: Westrick Nathaniel M. , Park Sung Chul , Keller Nancy P. , Smith Damon L. , Kabbage Mehdi
Published: October 2022

Alcohol oxidases (AOXs) are ecologically important enzymes that facilitate a number of plant–fungal interactions. Within Ascomycota they are primarily associated with methylotrophy, as a peroxisomal AOX catalysing the conversion of methanol to formaldehyde in methylotrophic yeast. In this study we demonstrate that AOX orthologues are phylogenetically conserved proteins that are common in the genomes of nonmethylotrophic, plant‐associating fungi. Additionally, AOX orthologues are highly expressed during infection in a range of diverse pathosystems. To study the role of AOX in plant colonization, AOX knockout mutants were generated in the broad host range pathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Disease assays in soybean showed that these mutants had a significant virulence defect as evidenced by markedly reduced stem lesions and mortality rates. Chemical genomics suggested that SsAOX may function as an aromatic AOX, and growth assays demonstrated that ΔSsAOX is incapable of properly utilizing plant extract as a nutrient source. Profiling of known aromatic alcohols pointed towards the monolignol coniferyl alcohol (CA) as a possible substrate for SsAOX. As CA and other monolignols are ubiquitous among land plants, the presence of highly conserved AOX orthologues throughout Ascomycota implies that this is a broadly conserved protein used by ascomycete fungi during plant colonization.
The association of frailty with chronic kidney disease in older adults using the ASPirin in reducing events in the elderly cohort
Authors: Walker Rowan G. , Wolfe Rory , Bongetti Elisa , Polkinghorne Kevan R. , Woods Robyn L. , Ryan Joanne , Espinoza Sara , Murray Anne , Ernst Michael E. , Mcneil John J. ,   ASPREE Investigator Group
Published: October 2022

Frailty and chronic kidney disease (CKD) both increase with age and are prevalent in older adults. However, studies in older adults examining the relationship between frailty and milder impairments of kidney function are relatively sparse. We examined the cross‐sectional association of baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), albuminuria and CKD ([eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2] and/or albuminuria [>3.0 mg/mmol]) with prefrailty and frailty in the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) trial cohort of healthy older participants. Univariate logistic regression models measured the unadjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for prevalent combined prefrailty and frailty (respectively defined as presence of 1–2 or 3+ of 5 modified fried criteria) for the association between CKD, eGFR, albuminuria and other potential risk factors. Multivariable models calculated OR for prefrailty‐frailty adjusted for potential confounders and either CKD, (i) eGFR and albuminuria measured as either continuous variables; (ii) or categorical variables; (iii). Of 17 759 eligible participants, 6934 were classified as prefrail, 389 were frail. CKD, eGFR and albuminuria were all associated with combined prefrailty‐frailty on univariate analysis. In the multivariable modelling, neither CKD (reduced eGFR and/or albuminuria), nor eGFR (either continuous or categorical variables) were associated with prefrailty‐frailty. However, albuminuria, either as a continuous variable (OR [95% CI] 1.07 [1.04–1.10]; p < .001), or categorical variable (OR 1.21 [1.08–1.36]; p = .001) was consistently associated with prefrailty‐frailty. The complex relationship between albuminuria (which may be a biomarker for vascular inflammation), ageing, progressive CKD and frailty requires further investigation.
The All‐Gap Phillips Curve
Authors: McNeil James , Smith Gregor W.
Published: October 2022

The all‐gap Phillips curve (PC) explains inflation by expected inflation and an activity variable such as output or the unemployment rate, but with both inflation and the activity variable measured relative to their stochastic trends and thus as gaps. We study this relationship with minimal auxiliary assumptions and under rational expectations (RE). We show restrictions on an unobserved components model that identify the PC parameters, first with an autonomous output gap and second with output and inflation gaps following a VAR. For the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada both cases yield all‐gap PCs with slopes of the expected signs, but there is little support for the restrictions implied by RE.
Altering osteoclast numbers using CTSK models in utero affects mice offspring craniofacial morphology
Authors: Hassan Mohamed G. , Vargas Ricardo , Zhang Bin , Marcel Noah , Cox Timothy C. , Jheon Andrew H.
Published: October 2022

Background

Bone remodelling during development and growth is important for craniofacial integrity of offspring. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in offspring adult skull morphology when the osteoclasts number was altered in utero, using three‐dimensional (3D) geometric morphometric analysis (GMA).

Materials and Methods

We altered osteoclasts number in utero via two approaches. First, we generated heterozygous CtskCre;DTAfl/+ (diphtheria toxin A) mice. Second, we altered Ctsk expression in vivo by injecting pregnant wild‐type dams at embryonic day (E) 12.5 with in vivo siRNA specific for Ctsk. Mice were collected at 6 weeks and analysed using geometric morphometric analysis via computed tomography, histomorphometry and gene expression analysis.

Results

Altering osteoclasts number in utero affected the offspring adult skull morphology. Decreased Ctsk and osteoclast numbers were associated with a decrease in cranial vault height and an increase in mandibular body length. Changes in size and shape were observed with an increased number of osteoclasts in CtskCre;DTAfl/+ mice, including an increase in cranial vault height, as well as a shortening of mandibular body length and ramus height.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that modulation of osteoclast numbers during pre‐ and post‐natal development may be a previously unknown factor in the aetiology of skeletal malocclusions. An improved understanding of the factors affecting bone homeostasis during development and growth may help in the development of future therapies that would target the early intervention of skeletal malocclusion.
Diversity, food web structure and the temporal stability of total plant and animal biomasses
Authors: Eschenbrenner Jérôme , Thébault Élisa
Published: October 2022

Food‐web complexity and species richness are predicted to have tremendous effects on ecosystem functioning stability. Yet, our understanding of the relation between diversity and the stability of ecosystem functioning is still mainly limited to single trophic level communities and highly simplified food webs. To start filling this knowledge gap, we model allometric food webs and use structural equation modelling (SEM) to investigate the relations between diversity, food web structure and the temporal variability of total plant and animal biomasses and their components, i.e. synchrony and mean population variability. We find that stability responds differently depending on the metric used. When looking at total biomass variability, higher total biomasses and biomass stored at higher trophic level have the strongest stabilising effects, while species richness has lower impact than previously found. We confirm that synchrony among species is important for the stability of the total plant biomass. However, synchrony only weakly explains variations in the stability of total animal biomass among food webs. Species richness and food web variables often have opposite impacts on synchrony and mean population variability, leading to more ambiguous results for the plant community as synchrony matters only for plant stability. Our approach thus provides new insight on the complexity of the stability of ecosystem functioning in complex food webs.
Habitat partitioning of soil microbial communities along an elevation gradient: from plant root to landscape scale
Authors: Merino‐Martín Luis , Hernández‐Cáceres Daniel , Reverchon Frédérique , Angeles‐Alvarez Guillermo , Zhang Guangqi , Dunoyer de Segonzac Denis , Dezette Damien , Stokes Alexia
Published: October 2022

Within a landscape, multiple habitats exist for soil microbial communities. But how these habitats shape community composition requires an understanding of the way in which microbial diversity is impacted across a broad range of spatial scales. Mountain ecosystems are excellent systems to study microbial communities, because a multitude of climate and soil variables change within a relatively small distance. We investigated microbial community structure in bulk and rhizosphere soils beneath three plant species, Vaccinium myrtillus, Juniperus communis and Picea abies, that structure local plant communities along an elevation gradient in the French Alps. We examined the impact that climate, soil properties, plant diversity and plant root chemical and morphological traits had on microbial α‐ and β‐diversities. The most abundant bacterial phyla detected in both bulk and rhizosphere soils were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria and Verrucomicrobia. Along the elevation gradient, bacterial phyla did not display a clear distribution pattern between bulk and rhizosphere soils. For fungi, dominant phyla were Ascomycota and Basidiomycota, and contrasting distribution patterns were found between bulk and rhizosphere soils. Overall, bacterial and fungal α‐diversity responded differently to elevation as well to soil compartments (bulk versus rhizosphere soil), revealing no significant patterns in bulk soil beneath any of the structuring plant species, but increasing in the rhizosphere compartment of P. abies just below the treeline. Changes in bacterial β‐diversity with elevation were related mostly to soil physical and chemical properties. Bacterial and fungal α‐diversity in rhizosphere communities were more related to plant species identity, vegetation diversity and belowground plant traits compared to soil properties, whilst the opposite was found for bulk soil. Our results highlight that environmental changes at the landscape scale (e.g. associated to elevation, soil properties or climate), impact significantly soil microbial communities, but vegetation refines communities at a local scale via the rhizosphere niche.
Surgical Treatment for Severe Cervical Hyperlordosis and Thoracolumar Kyphoscoliosis with Emery–Dreifuss Muscular Dystrophy: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Tang Ziyang , Hu Zongshan , Qin Xiaodong , Zhu Zezhang , Liu Zhen
Published: October 2022

Background

Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (EDMD) is an uncommon, gradually progressive X‐linked myopathy, and it could result in rigid spinal deformity. Only a few case reports have described surgical treatment of cervical hyperlordosis and thoracolumbar kyphoscoliosis secondary to EDMD. We report a rare case of EDMD to present the surgical strategies of severe cervical hyperlordosis and thoracolumbar kyphoscoliosis.

Case presentation

The patient was a 22‐year‐old man with EDMD who had severe cervical hyperlordosis and thoracolumbar kyphoscoliosis. A posterior spinal fusion from T9‐S2 was performed to correct the thoracolumbar kyphoscoliosis at the age of 21 years. Six months later, with an anterior C7‐T1 closing wedge bone‐disc‐bone osteotomy and a posterior–anterior–posterior cervicothoracic fusion from C4‐T4, the cervical deformity was corrected, thus achieving a horizontal gaze. During 1.5‐year follow‐up, no loss of correction was observed.

Conclusion

Cervical posterior–anterior–posterior closing‐wedge osteotomy combined with long fusion at thoracolumbar spine can be a reliable surgical technique to correct severe spine deformity in EDMD. This two‐stage revision surgical strategy can help restore a horizontal gaze on the basis of a balanced trunk. Cervical deformity in such patients should be corrected in the first stage considering its role as a “driver” of the global spine deformity.
Lateral Approach for Scaphoid Excision and Capitolunate Arthrodesis in the Treatment of Scapholunate Advanced Collapse and Scaphoid Nonunion Advanced Collapse Wrists: A Case Series
Authors: Huang Hui‐Kuang , Wu Chin‐Hsien , Huang Yi‐Chao , Yin Cheng‐Yu , Hung Wei‐Chen , Wang Jung‐Pan
Published: October 2022

Objective

The dorsal approach is commonly used in open wrist arthrodesis. However, the extensor compartments and the dorsal wrist capsule need to be opened. We propose and evaluate a lateral approach using a small incision over the scaphoid anatomical snuffbox, which could be more straightforward for performing scaphoid excision and capitolunate arthrodesis in the treatment of scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC).

Methods

Between 2016 and 2021, 10 patients were enrolled retrospectively and underwent the lateral approach for scaphoid excision and capitolunate arthrodesis. We presented the radiographic outcomes, including fusion status, capitolunate angle, and carpal height ratio. The functional outcomes of wrist range of motion, grip strength, visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score, and Mayo wrist score were evaluated. The data obtained were analyzed and presented as the mean and standard deviation (SD).

Results

All 10 patients achieved solid bone fusion, and the mean follow‐up period was 20.4 (range 12–38; SD 10.1) months. Postoperatively, the mean capitolunate angle and carpal height ratio improved from 18.1° (range 8–34°; SD 8.6°) to 2.9° (range 0–5°; SD 1.9°) and 0.45 (range 0.40–0.49; SD 0.03)% to 0.50 (range 0.46–0.54; SD 0.02)%, respectively. The average preoperative and final follow‐up functional results were as follows: flexion‐extension arc of 76.5° (range 50–110°; SD 20.0°) and 74.0° (range 65–90°; SD 9.1°); VAS pain score of 5.8 (range 4–7; SD 1.0) and 0.9 (range 0–2; SD 0.6); QuickDASH score of 55.9 (range 40.9–79.5; SD 11.4) and 26.1 (range 18.2–36.4; SD 6.0); and Mayo wrist score of 46.5 (range 25–60; SD 13.8) and 72.5 (range 70–80; SD 3.5), respectively.

Conclusions

The lateral approach for scaphoid excision and capitolunate arthrodesis in treating SLAC and SNAC can provide a straightforward way for performance. This approach does not require disruption of the dorsal wrist capsule and extensor retinaculum. Bony healing can be achieved, and functional outcomes can be improved.
The Impact of Coronal Configuration of the Proximal Femur on its Mechanical Properties and the Validation of a New Theoretical Model: Finite Element Analysis and Biomechanical Examination
Authors: Zhang Lijia , Zhu Baozhang , Chen Liwan , Wang Wenqing , Zhang Xiaoyong , Zhang Jianguo
Published: October 2022

Objective

This study aims to establish the coronal configuration of the proximal femur as an independent factor for its mechanical properties and provide validation for the theoretical model “fulcrum‐balance‐reconstruction.”

Methods

The digital 3D femur model constructed with the lower extremity high‐resolution computed tomography of a senior subject was applied with the axial compression of 2100N under 5 different α angles of 10°, 5°, 0°, −5°, −10°. The equivalent stress distribution of the femoral geometric model under each angle were calculated. Under the same five α angles, fatigue test was performed on 15 composite artificial left femurs (three specimens in each angle group) to obtain the failure cycle and fracture site. The statistical analysis was accomplished using One‐Way ANOVA.

Results

The maximum stress of the entire femur in physiological angle (α = 10°) occurred below femoral neck with a value of 63.91 MPa. When the proximal femur is in extreme abducted angle (α = −10°), the maximum stress shift to the lower medial cortex of femoral shaft with a value of 105.2 MPa. As the α angle changed from 10° to −10°, the greater trochanteric region had the largest increment in maximum stress (2.78 times for cortex and 1.67 times for cancellous bone) locally at the proximal femur. The failure cycles of the artificial femurs with a variety of abduction angle were averagely 9126 ± 2453.87 (α = −10°), 58,112.33 ± 1293.84 (α = −5°), 92,879.67 ± 2398.54 (α = 0°), 172,045.3 ± 11011.11 (α = 5°), and 264,949.3 ± 35,067.26 (α = 10°), and the statistical analysis revealed that the α angle of the group of concern is proportional to the P value of the corresponding group compared to the 10° group(α = 5° & α = 10°, P = 0.01; α = 0 & α = 10°, P = 0.001; α = −5°, −10° & α = 10°, P < 0.001). In fatigue test, the fracture appeared on femoral neck for the α angles of 10° (three subcapital), 5° (two basal; one transcervical), and 0° (one transcervical). Fracture sites located at trochanteric region were observed with the more abducted angles including 0° (two subtrochanteric) and −5° (two intertrochanteric; one subtrochanteric). The fracture line was only found on femoral shaft in the −10° group.

Conclusion

With increasing hip abduction, the proximal femur shows declining mechanical properties, which suggests higher risk of hip fracture and increasement in the fraction of trochanteric fracture subtype. Furthermore, the hypothesis of “fulcrum‐balance‐reconstruction” was validated by our study to a certain extent.