bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding and addressing psychological distress experienced by farmers, from the perspective of rural financial counsellors
Authors: Gunn Kate M. , Hughes‐Barton Donna
Published: November 2021

Objective

To explore rural financial counsellors' experiences interacting with psychologically distressed farmers and identify contextually appropriate methods to maintain their own well‐being and link farmers to psychological supports, within their existing roles.

Setting

Rural, regional and remote Australia.

Participants

Fifty rural financial counsellors participated. They worked across 6 Australian states/territories.

Design

Individual semi‐structured telephone interviews were audio‐recorded with consent. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. Themes were identified using an essentialist, bottom‐up approach.

Results

Forty‐six themes emerged relating to the 5 topics explored: (a) how to recognise distress in farmers (eg inability to focus/make decisions, deterioration in presentation/organisation, anger, blaming); (b) impact of farmers' psychological distress on the financial case management process (eg slows, disrupts or stops it, negatively impacts counsellor well‐being); (c) strategies for working effectively with distressed farmers (eg flexibility, open‐ended questions, listening to story, simplicity, instilling hope); (d) referral of distressed farmers to psychological support (eg willing if tried themselves/positive reports, lack of local rural face‐to‐face services, stigma and lack of understanding of importance challenging, a farming focus and support from family/ community assists); and (e) strategies to maintain their own well‐being (eg compartmentalising, exercise, supervision).

Conclusion

Rural financial counsellors play an important role by recognising signs of distress in farmers and referring them to appropriate psychological supports. However, this is a demanding role and ensuring counsellors have appropriate services to refer farmers to, and support with their own well‐being, is imperative.
A novel peptide inhibitor of Dll4‐Notch1 signalling and its pro‐angiogenic functions
Authors: Zhu Guofu , Lin Ying , Ge Tandi , Singh Shekhar , Liu Hao , Fan Linlin , Wang Shumin , Rhen Jordan , Jiang Dongyang , Lyu Yuyan , Yin Yiheng , Li Xiankai , Benoit Danielle S. W. , Li Weiming , Xu Yawei , Pang Jinjiang
Published: November 2021

Background and Purpose

The Dll4‐Notch1 signalling pathway plays an important role in sprouting angiogenesis, vascular remodelling and arterial or venous specificity. Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of Dll4‐Notch1 signalling leads to excessive sprouting angiogenesis. However, transcriptional inhibitors of Dll4‐Notch1 signalling have not been described.

Experimental Approach

We designed a new peptide targeting Notch signalling, referred to as TAT‐ANK, and assessed its effects on angiogenesis. In vitro, tube formation and fibrin gel bead assay were carried out, using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). In vivo, Matrigel plug angiogenesis assay, a developmental retinal model and tumour models in mice were used. The mechanisms underlying TAT‐ANK activity were investigated by immunochemistry, western blotting, immunoprecipitation, RT‐qPCR and luciferase reporter assays.

Key Results

The amino acid residues 179–191 in the G‐protein‐coupled receptor‐kinase‐interacting protein‐1 (GIT1‐ankyrin domain) are crucial for GIT1 binding to the Notch transcription repressor, RBP‐J. We designed the peptide TAT‐ANK, based on residues 179–191 in GIT1. TAT‐ANK significantly inhibited Dll4 expression and Notch 1 activation in HUVECs by competing with activated Notch1 to bind to RBP‐J. The analyses of biological functions showed that TAT‐ANK promoted angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting Dll4‐Notch1 signalling.

Conclusions and Implications

We synthesized and investigated the biological actions of TAT‐ANK peptide, a new inhibitor of Notch signalling. This peptide will be of significant interest to research on Dll4‐Notch1 signalling and to clinicians carrying out clinical trials using Notch signalling inhibitors. Furthermore, our findings will have important conceptual and therapeutic implications for angiogenesis‐related diseases.
Narrative Matters: Fighting not drowning – facing a harsh climate future with wisdom, hope and courage
Authors: Wiseman John
Published: November 2021

The most recent 2021 IPCC climate science update reminds us yet again that accelerating the transition to a just and resilient zero‐carbon future clearly remains humanity’s most urgent task. A great deal of hard work and a lot of luck may enable us to avoid some of the most dangerous climate change and ecological tipping points. Current and future generations are however on a journey into a world of more frequent and severe extreme weather events; more heatwaves, fires, floods and famines and more rapid extinctions of animals, birds and insects. Awareness, that this is going to be a very long emergency is a source of deep distress for many people passionately committed to decisive climate action. A rapidly expanding body of research highlights the extent to which this distress is experienced most acutely by children and young people with large numbers reporting deeply pessimistic views about the future. This article explores diverse sources of learning and wisdom – from climate scientists and activists; philosophers and social theorists; Indigenous cultures and ways of life; faith‐based and spiritual traditions; artists and writers – which can strengthen our capacity to live courageous, compassionate and creative lives in a world of rapidly accelerating climatic and ecological risk.
Identifying cost‐effective recovery actions for a critically endangered species
Authors: Pritchard Rachel A. , Kelly Ella L. , Biggs James R. , Everaardt Annika N. , Loyn Richard , Magrath Michael J. L. , Menkhorst Peter , Hogg Carolyn J. , Geary William L.
Published: November 2021

Threatened species managers are often required to make swift decisions in the face of considerable uncertainty. We tested a structured approach for evaluating conservation options for the critically endangered orange‐bellied parrot. The Orange‐bellied Parrot Recovery Team provides advice to government agencies to inform the allocation of a limited number of captive‐bred birds to different release scenarios. Using a structured expert elicitation approach, we determined that scenarios where more fledglings were released were more cost‐effective compared to other options. Following this finding in 2019, the recovery team adjusted plans and allocated additional birds to fledgling release, a response that contributed to an increase in wild birds migrating in 2020 and 2021. The challenges facing orange‐bellied parrot conservation, including limitations in animals, time and resources, and high uncertainty, are common for threatened species recovery programs. Here we show that a structured process can help managers grapple with these complex trade‐offs to make timely decisions.
Ecological integrity is both real and valuable
Authors: Karr James R. , Larson Eric R. , Chu Ellen W.
Published: November 2021

Ecological integrity has been criticized as a “bad fit as a value” for conservation biology and restoration ecology. But work over the past four decades centered on ecological integrity—especially biological integrity—has given rise to effective methods for biological monitoring and assessment to better understand the disintegration of living systems, including under scenarios of rapid climate change. Revealing when and where living systems have been altered by human activity, such methods have been adapted and applied most comprehensively in streams and rivers, but also in other ecosystems, ranging from tropical forests to marine coral reefs and on all continents except Antarctica. Equally important, restoration and maintenance of biological integrity is already a fundamental goal in law and offers an inspiring framework for communication and engagement—among scientists, resource managers, law‐ and policymakers, and the public. This essay builds the case that ecological integrity has proved both real and valuable as a conservation paradigm.
Defining and bridging the barriers to more effective conservation of island ecosystems: A practitioner's perspective
Authors: Burt April J. , Nuno Ana , Bunbury Nancy
Published: November 2021

The failure to meet global biodiversity targets clearly indicates the need for biodiversity management and conservation efforts to be more effective, and this in turn requires better understanding of the current barriers to success. Islands are known as biodiversity hotspots but nowhere has biodiversity loss been so acute as in island ecosystems. To identify the barriers to effective island ecosystem conservation, we conducted 32 semistructured interviews with conservation and management practitioners from island nations in the Western Indian Ocean region. Practitioners described 33 barriers to meeting their objectives under 12 overarching topics and suggested 14 solutions to these. Most barriers described by interviewees existed at organization level (55%), followed by national (24%) and site/project level (21%). Of the 33 barriers described by practitioners, the most commonly associated cause was limited capacity (23.5%), followed by lack of government coordination and limited resources (both 21.6%), lack of incentives (11.8%), poor leadership (11.7%), and finally interpersonal issues interfering with progress (9.8%). Most solutions centered around bridging capacity gaps. By defining these barriers, we can bring them forward for discussion and allocate resources and efforts to bridging them. Only by doing so can we increase the effectiveness of our management efforts and maximize our chances of achieving global biodiversity targets.
What feeds onQuercus ilexL.? A biogeographical approach to studying trophic interactions in a Mediterranean keystone species
Authors: Hernández‐Agüero Juan Antonio , Ruiz‐Tapiador Ildefonso , Cayuela Luis
Published: November 2021

Aim

Holm oak (Quercus ilexL.) is regarded as a keystone plant species. Trophic interactions may affect the distribution and abundance of phytophagous species, but the number of arthropod species that use holm oak as a food resource and their levels of host specificity are not yet known. Here, we aimed to quantify these species, their feeding strategies and conservation status, the taxonomic relatedness in each trophic guild and their degree of host specificity on holm oak.

Location

Our study covered the whole distribution area ofQ. ilexin the central‐western Mediterranean Basin.

Methods

We reviewed the existing literature and compiled information about all arthropod species that feed onQ. ilex, as well as their feeding strategies and conservation status. We also investigated the relationships between trophic guilds and the taxonomic relatedness of species, and assessed the degree of climatic niche overlap with holm oak.

Results

We found that 605 species feed on seven different parts of the holm oak plant (i.e. feeding strategies). More than 90% of these species lack a conservation status assessment, and eight are threatened by human activities, either as vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered. A significant phylogenetic relationship was found between taxonomic relatedness and groups of arthropods that feed on the same part of the plant (i.e. trophic guilds). Twenty per cent of the species had similar niches, thereby indicating the potentially high host dependence of these species.

Main conclusions

This study highlights the significance of a keystone tree species for arthropod conservation and the need for further research into the distribution and conservation status of arthropod species in Mediterranean holm oak woodlands.
Whole‐exome sequencing and adrenocorticotropic hormone therapy in individuals with infantile spasms
Authors: Demarest Scott , Calhoun Jeff , Eschbach Krista , Yu Hung‐Chun , Mirsky David , Angione Katie , Shaikh Tamim H , Carvill Gemma L , Benke Tim A ,   the WES Support Group
Published: November 2021

Aim

To identify additional genes associated with infantile spasms using a cohort with defined infantile spasms.

Method

Whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was performed on 21 consented individuals with infantile spasms and their unaffected parents (a trio‐based study). Clinical history and imaging were reviewed. Potentially deleterious exonic variants were identified and segregated. To refine potential candidates, variants were further prioritized on the basis of evidence for relevance to disease phenotype or known associations with infantile spasms, epilepsy, or neurological disease.

Results

Likely pathogenic de novo variants were identified in NR2F1, GNB1, NEUROD2, GABRA2, and NDUFAF5. Suggestive dominant and recessive candidate variants were identified in PEMT, DYNC1I1, ASXL1, RALGAPB, and STRADA; further confirmation is required to support their relevance to disease etiology.

Interpretation

This study supports the utility of WES in uncovering the genetic etiology in undiagnosed individuals with infantile spasms with an overall yield of five out of 21. High‐priority candidates were identified in an additional five individuals. WES provides additional support for previously described disease‐associated genes and expands their already broad mutational and phenotypic spectrum.
Risk factors associated with hypoxaemia in horses undergoing general anaesthesia: A retrospective study
Authors: Hovda Tyne , Love Lydia , Chiavaccini Ludovica
Published: November 2021

Background

Hypoxaemia is a common concern during equine general anaesthesia. The prevalence and predictors of hypoxaemia in horses undergoing elective anaesthesia in particular are poorly documented.

Objectives

To determine and compare the prevalence of hypoxaemia (defined as PaO2 ≤ 80 mm Hg, on the lowest value recorded) in horses undergoing anaesthesia for exploratory laparotomy and elective procedures, and to identify risk factors in both subpopulations.

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Data were collected from 774 records of 708 horses undergoing general anaesthesia between April 2017 and August 2020. Potential predictors of hypoxaemia in horses undergoing anaesthesia for exploratory laparotomy or elective procedures were investigated separately by univariable penalised maximum likelihood logistic regression, followed by multivariable analysis. The lowest recorded PaO2was used as a single data point for the determination of hypoxaemia and arterial oxygen partial pressure to fractional inspired oxygen ratio analysis.

Results

Hypoxaemia was recorded in 23% horses undergoing exploratory laparotomy compared with 3.8% horses undergoing elective anaesthesia (P < .001). Multivariable analysis showed that weight above 550 kg, large intestinal lesions, and peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) above 30 cmH2O were significantly associated with hypoxaemia in horses undergoing exploratory laparotomy. Soft tissue procedures and PIP >30 cmH2O were significantly associated with hypoxaemia during elective anaesthesia.

Main limitations

This study only considered the minimum PaO2recorded during anaesthesia. Duration and treatment of hypoxaemia were not considered.

Conclusions

Based on the lowest PaO2value during anaesthesia, in our population, horses undergoing anaesthesia for exploratory laparotomy were over six times more likely to become hypoxaemic than horses undergoing elective procedures. Bodyweight, type of procedure, and high PIP were predictors of hypoxaemia.
Charge neutralization of lysine via carbamylation reveals hidden aggregation hot‐spots in tau protein flanking regions
Authors: Gadhavi Joshna , Shah Sumedha , Sinha Tulika , Jain Alok , Gupta Sharad
Published: November 2021

Tau protein is found abundantly in neurofibrillary tangles in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The longest human tau isoform (2N4R) has 44 lysine residues. Several lysine‐based post‐translational modifications (PTMs) such as glycation, acetylation, ubiquitination, and sumoylation have been implicated not only in AD, but also in other tauopathies. Carbamylation is one such lysine neutralizing age‐related nonenzymatic PTM which can modulate the aggregation propensity of tau. In this work, we have studied the aggregation potential of lysine‐rich regions of tau upon carbamylation which do not aggregate in their native form. Using an array of biophysical and microscopic analyses, such as ThT kinetic assay, fluorescence microscopy, Congo red staining, and scanning electron microscopy, we demonstrate that peptides derived from four of five such regions exhibit robust fibrillar amyloid formation. These regions are found in the N‐terminal projection domain that encompasses proline‐rich domain (148–153 and 223–230), repeat domain R1 (253–260), as well as fibrillary core region (368–378), and can be described as hidden aggregation hot‐spots which become activated upon carbamylation. We have further compared the impact of carbamylation with acetylation on the aggregation propensity of lysine‐rich peptide (254KKVAVV259) using biophysical experiments and molecular dynamics simulations and deduced that carbamylation is a much stronger driver of aggregation than acetylation. Our findings may offer more insight into amyloid fibrils' interaction with hidden aggregation‐prone nucleating sequences that act as hot‐spots for inducing tau fibrillation.
Understanding how kinesin motor proteins regulate postsynaptic function in neuron
Authors: Fan Ruolin , Lai Kwok‐On
Published: November 2021

The Kinesin superfamily proteins (KIFs) are major molecular motors that transport diverse set of cargoes along microtubules to both the axon and dendrite of a neuron. Much of our knowledge about kinesin function is obtained from studies on axonal transport. Emerging evidence reveals how specific kinesin motor proteins carry cargoes to dendrites, including proteins, mRNAs and organelles that are crucial for synapse development and plasticity. In this review, we will summarize the major kinesin motors and their associated cargoes that have been characterized to regulate postsynaptic function in neuron. We will also discuss how specific kinesins are selectively involved in the development of excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic compartments, their regulation by post‐translational modifications (PTM), as well as their roles beyond conventional transport carrier.
Low‐dose immune tolerance induction therapy in children of Arab descent with severe haemophilia A, high inhibitor titres and poor prognostic factors for immune tolerance induction treatment success
Authors: Elalfy Mohsen , Elghamry Islam , Hassab Hoda , Elalfy Omar , Andrawes Nevine , El‐Ekiaby Magdy
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Immune Tolerance Induction (ITI) is the first‐choice therapy to eradicate Factor VIII (FVIII) neutralizing antibodies in patients with haemophilia A (HA). There is limited published data on ITI from East Mediterranean countries.

Aim

To assess the effectiveness of a low‐dose ITI regimen to eradicate FVIII neutralizing antibodies in children with severe HA and high‐titre inhibitors.

Methods

A prospective, single‐arm study was conducted in children with HA (FVIII < 1 IU/dl), high‐titre inhibitors and poor prognostic factors for successful ITI. Patients were treated with ∼50 IU/kg plasma‐derived FVIII containing von Willebrand factor (pdFVIII/VWF) concentrate (Koate‐DVI, Grifols) three times a week. Time to achieve tolerance, total and partial success were analysed after ITI. Annual bleeding rate (ABR), number of target joints, FVIII recovery and school absence were compared before and after ITI.

Results

Twenty patients with median (range) age of 6.2 (3–12) years and pre‐ITI inhibitor titre of 36.5 (12–169) BU were enrolled. ITI lasted ≤12 months (early tolerization) in 45% of patients. Median follow‐up was 12 months (3–22) and total response rate was 80% (60% total success; 20% partial success). Patients with two and three poor prognosis factors achieved overall success rate of 60% and 50%, respectively. ABR, target joints and school absence were reduced after ITI by 60%, 50% and 44.1%, respectively. In successful ITI tolerized patients, FVIII recovery was 90 (60–100)%.

Conclusion

A low‐dose ITI therapy using a pdFVIII/VWF concentrate achieved at least partial tolerance in 80% of patients, and reduced annual bleeds in children with high inhibitor titres and at least one poor prognosis factor for ITI treatment success.
Identifying key threats to a refugial population of an endangered Hawaiian moth
Authors: Elliott Christine H. , Gillett Conrad P. D. T. , Parsons Elliott , Wright Mark G. , Rubinoff Daniel
Published: November 2021

The dramatic worldwide decline in insect biodiversity has highlighted the need for insect conservation. However, management is hindered by incomplete knowledge of what drives species mortality. Even when drivers are identified, it can be difficult to quantify their effects.

Using data from six naturally occurring cohorts observed over 2 years, we created partial ecological life tables for Blackburn's sphinx moth, Manduca blackburni, a federally listed endangered moth endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. We identified mortality factors impacting eggs and quantified mortality for both eggs and larvae of M. blackburni.

Life table analysis demonstrated that total mortality was above 99%, highlighting the severe threats faced by this critically endangered species. Disappearance, likely driven by invasive ants, and predation were the two primary causes of egg mortality. While egg mortality contributed the most to total mortality, apparent mortality was high for all developmental stages observed, indicating substantial risk throughout the moth's pre‐adult life cycle.

Our results show that M. blackburni likely experiences unsustainably high mortality across its pre‐pupal life stages and highlight the dangers invasive predators pose for the focal species and naïve species in general. The threats facing M. blackburni may bear directly on other declining insect species and their management. Future conservation efforts should focus on mitigating the impacts of invasive ants and other arthropod predators to promote species recovery for this charismatic Hawaiian endemic.
Oromandibular parafunction in chronic graft‐versus‐host disease: novel association and treatment approach
Authors: Joshi Purwa , Kiers Lynette , Evans Andrew , Ritchie David , Szer Jeff , Cruse Belinda
Published: November 2021

Chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (cGVHD) complicating allogeneic haemopoietic stem cell transplantation rarely involves the nervous system; oromandibular parafunction has not been previously reported. We describe five patients with cGVHD, presenting with bruxism, limitation of mouth opening, jaw locking, pain and masseter hypertrophy. Pathophysiological mechanisms are discussed. Targeted botulinum toxin injections were an effective treatment with minimal side‐effects.
Making white spots disappear! Do minimally invasive treatments improve incisor opacities in children with molar‐incisor hypomineralisation?
Authors: Warner Claire , Hasmun Noren N. , Elcock Claire , Lawson Jennifer A. , Vettore Mario V. , Rodd Helen D.
Published: November 2021

Background

Children with molar‐incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) frequently seek aesthetic treatment for incisor opacities. Surprisingly, few studies have evaluated the clinical success of such interventions.

Aim

To quantify the effectiveness of minimally invasive treatments in reducing enamel opacity visibility in children with MIH.

Design

This in vitro study used digital clinical images of 23 children aged 8–16 years with MIH who underwent microabrasion and/or resin infiltration for the management of incisor opacities. Standard images were taken pre‐treatment and 6 months post‐treatment. Image software (Image‐Pro Plus®V7) was employed to convert 24‐bit RGB images to 16‐bit greyscale and 145× magnification. Measurement repeatability was assessed using intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICCs). Post‐treatment changes in visible opacity area (mm2) and brightness (greyscale value) were tested using the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test for related samples.

Results

The mean total opacity surface area significantly reduced from 14.3 mm2 (SD = 7.5) to 9.4 mm2 (SD = 9.0) post‐treatment. The proportion of tooth surface affected by the opacity also significantly reduced from 22.5% (SD = 10.5) to 14.7% (SD = 12.7). The mean maximum opacity brightness significantly reduced from 53 066 greyscale value (SD = 4740) to 49 040 (SD = 3796). ICC was good/excellent (0.75–1.0).

Conclusion

Minimally invasive treatment is effective in reducing the size and brightness of discrete incisor opacities. Future research should compare objective findings with patient‐reported outcomes.
Iron stress response and bioaccumulation potential of three fungal strains isolated from sewage-irrigated soil
Authors: El-Sayed Manal T. , Ezzat Saeid M. , Taha Asmaa S. , Ismaiel Ahmed A.
Published: November 2021

Aims

Contamination with heavy metal (HM) is a severe environmental issue. Therefore, there is a pressing need to create environmentally safe and cost-effective HM bioremediation approaches.

Methods and Results

Three iron-tolerant fungal strains were isolated from sewage-irrigated soils, molecularly identified and deposited in the GenBank as Aspergillus flavus MT639638, A. terreus MT605370 and Fusarium oxysporum MT605399. The fungal growth, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), tolerance index (TI), removal efficiency, bioaccumulation, and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants were determined. Based on MIC values, A. flavus MT639638 was the most resistant strain. F. oxysporum displayed the highest percent removal efficiency (93.65% at 4000 mg L−1) followed by A. flavus (92.92%, at 11,000 mg L−1), and A. terreus (91.18% at 3000 mg L−1). F. oxysporum was selected based on its highly sensitivity for further characterization of its response to Fe(II) stress using TEM, SEM and EDX, in addition to HPLC analysis of organic acids. These analyses demonstrated the localization of bioaccumulated Fe(II) and ultrastructural changes induced by iron and indicated induction release of organic acids.

Conclusions

Our fungal strains showed an effective capacity for removal of Fe(II) via bioaccumulation and biosorption mechanisms which were supported by instrumental analyses. The iron tolerance potentiality was mediated by induction of selected antioxidative enzymes and biomolecules.

Significance and Impact of the Study

This study depicts a potential utilization of the three fungal strains for the bioremediation of iron-contaminated soils.
Parenting moderates the etiology of callous‐unemotional traits in middle childhood
Authors: Tomlinson Rachel C. , Hyde Luke W. , Dotterer Hailey L. , Klump Kelly L. , Burt S. Alexandra
Published: November 2021

Background

Callous‐unemotional (CU) traits are associated with chronic and escalating trajectories of antisocial behavior. Extant etiologic studies suggest that heritability estimates for CU traits vary substantially, while also pointing to an environmental association between parenting and CU traits.

Methods

We used twin modeling to estimate additive genetic (A), shared environmental (C), and nonshared environmental (E) influences on CU traits, measured with the Inventory of Callous‐Unemotional Traits (ICU) and its subscales. Our sample included 600 twin pairs (age 6–11, 230 monozygotic) from neighborhoods with above‐average levels of family poverty, a risk factor for antisocial behavior. We examined the extent to which correlations between parenting, measured via parent and child report on the Parental Environment Questionnaire, and CU traits reflected genetic versus environmental factors. Then, we tested whether parenting moderated the heritability of CU traits.

Results

In the context of lower‐income neighborhoods, CU traits were moderately to highly heritable (A = 54%) with similar moderate‐to‐high nonshared environmental influences (E = 46%). Bivariate models revealed that associations between CU traits and warm parenting were genetic (rA = .22) and environmental (rE = .19) in origin, whereas associations between CU traits and harsh parenting were largely genetic in origin (rA = .70). The heritability of CU traits decreased with increasing parental warmth and decreasing harshness.

Conclusions

Callous‐unemotional traits are both genetic and environmental in origin during middle childhood, but genetic influences are moderated by parenting quality. Parenting may be an important target for interventions, particularly among youth with greater genetic risk.
Female and male Grapholita molesta (Busck) adults responding to various acetic acid and ethanol lure ratios
Authors: Kong Weina , Wang Yi , Guo Yongfu , Chai Xiaohan , Hu Xuefeng , Li Jie , Ma Ruiyan
Published: November 2021

Grapholita molesta (Busck) is a menacing pest of fruit trees worldwide. A mixture of glucose, acetic acid, ethanol, and water (GAEWM) has been widely used for monitoring or trapping G. molesta adults. Previous research has shown that acetic acid captures more moths compared to ethanol; however, the respective roles of acetic acid and ethanol in bisexual attraction remain unknown. This study investigated the olfactory behaviours of virgin females, virgin males, and gravid females to variations in nine concentration levels of acetic acid (A) and ethanol (E) for GAEWM using electroantennography, a wind tunnel experiment, and a field test. There was a significant dose‐dependent response by moths to the GAEWM lure variations that affected the range of lure detection and the probability of a moth being trapped. In contrast, adult sex and mating status had the strongest effect on the behaviours associated with flying close to the trap. For medium level dosages of A and E, one combination with acetic acid exceeding ethanol content (A > E; #3, A:E = 3:1) elicited antennal detection by the test adults, and upwind flight of the females. In another combination with ethanol predominating (E > A; #7, A:E = 1:3), the lured traps caught more males than control groups. For low dosages, with the acetic acid level equal to ethanol (A = E; #1, A:E = 1:1), females flew upwind, and virgin females flew around the lure. For high level dosages, with A > E (#6, A:E = 3:2), the antennae of gravid females and virgin males reacted to the lure. These results concluded that the acetic acid to ethanol ratios of either 3:1 or 1:3 in GAEWM has the potential to improve the attraction of both G. molesta sexes to traps.
Analysis of the effect magnitude of different parameters on smile attractiveness
Authors: Al Hamad Khaled Q. , Almohammed Saleh N. , Baba Nadim Z.
Published: November 2021

Objective

To evaluate the effect magnitude of different parameters on smile attractiveness.

Materials and methods

A reference and 13 images were produced by manipulating 13 parameters. Image rating was performed with a 4‐point Likert scale from least attractive (1) to most attractive (4). Image raters included laypeople, dental students, dentists, and dental specialists. Friedman and Wilcoxon image were used for estimate of effect size. Parameters were classified into small (0.10‐ < 0.30), medium (0.30‐ < 0.5), or large (≥0.50).

Results

A total of 1040 people participated with good consistency (α = 0.861), and moderate reliability (0.64–0.7). The reference image had the highest rank (laypeople:11.79, dental background: 12.55). For effect size; gingival margin level (−0.11, −0.01), teeth width proportion (−0.09, −0.10), inverted smile arch (−0.09, −0.21), commissure line cant (−0.15, −0.17) and low smile (−0.24, −0.23) had small effect size; occlusal plane cant (−0.36, −0.49), midline cant (−0.36, −0.48), and midline shift (−0.37, −0.49) had medium effect size; diastema (−0.55, −0.54) and color (−0.56, −0.56) had large effect size for the laypeople and dental groups. High smile (−0.42, −0.51), incisor edge symmetry (−0.46, −0.54) had medium effect size in laypeople group and large effect size in the dental group. Width to length tooth proportion (−0.26, −0.39) had small effect size in the laypeople group and medium effect size in the dental group.

Conclusions

Smile parameters had different effect magnitude on smile attractiveness and were classified into small, medium, or large parameters. Neither laypeople nor professionals have a collective judgment on what constitutes a beautiful smile.

Clinical significance

This study investigated the effect magnitudes of 13 smile parameters and presented a small, medium, and large smile parameters classification. It should provide the clinician with an insight into the expected effect each parameter has on the smile.
Exceptional longevity in a lightly exploited, semi‐anadromous clupeid (Perth herring Nematalosa vlaminghi) within a degraded estuarine environment
Authors: Smith Kimberley A. , Coulson Peter G. , Hesp S. Alex
Published: November 2021

Many anadromous (and semi‐anadromous) fish species, which migrate from marine to freshwater ecosystems to spawn and to complete their life cycle, are currently threatened by habitat degradation in the upper parts of estuaries and rivers, where spawning and juvenile nursery areas occur. This situation pertains to Nematalosa vlaminghi, a semi‐anadromous gizzard shad (Clupeidae: Dorosomatinae) endemic to south‐western Australia. More information on the biology of N. vlaminghi is required for its effective management and conservation. This study estimated growth, longevity and natural mortality of N. vlaminghi. Ages were determined by counting validated annual growth increments in thin sections of sagittal otoliths. Fish were sampled in the Swan‐Canning Estuary, which historically hosted the main commercial fishery for N. vlaminghi. Since the late 1990s, however, only very minor catches of this species have been taken from this estuary and none since 2007. Given the essentially unexploited state of the current population, the estimate of total mortality (Z, y−1) from the catch curve analysis in this study provides a direct estimate of natural mortality (M, y−1) for N. vlaminghi. Somatic growth during this study was substantially slower than that historically reported for N. vlaminghi. Various processes operating in this estuary since the 1970s may have contributed to slower growth, including increased hypoxia, higher primary productivity due to eutrophication and cessation of fishing for N. vlaminghi. The maximum observed age of 19.8 years for N. vlaminghi is the highest reported for any gizzard shad globally and one of the highest reported for any clupeid species. This exceptional longevity is likely part of a life‐history strategy that allows N. vlaminghi, which exhibits substantial variation in annual recruitment success, to persist in the intermittently closed estuaries of south‐western Australia where environmental factors, including low flow and hypoxia, can create unfavourable conditions for reproduction for extended periods.
State‐level material flow analysis suggests the need to reconsider current monitoring practice and mitigation policies for poly‐ and perfluoroalkyl substances in carpet
Authors: Jiang Daqian , Zhang Tianyu
Published: November 2021

The use of per‐‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer products are under scrutiny due to persistence and toxicity concerns, and large‐scale monitoring is being implemented to better estimate and manage the associated risks. However, current monitoring efforts are often conducted independently from regional material flow analysis (MFA), leaving missed opportunities for monitoring to generate data more compatible with MFA, and to benefit from the insights that can be generated by MFA. This study aims to bridge the gap by quantitatively evaluating the sensitivity of state‐level PFAS emissions from carpet to two emission models and seven input parameters. While this exercise is theoretical in nature, it demonstrates the synergies from connecting the often disparate monitoring efforts and regional MFA. Most notably, this study finds that the widely‐followed linear emission reporting would suggest that current mitigation policies (e.g., regulating the PFAS use in carpet production) are ineffective at reducing PFAS emissions from in‐use and landfilled carpet – defeating one of the key purposes, but the hypothetical first‐order emission model would suggest the opposite. The contrast points out the need for future monitoring efforts to prioritize the confirmation of the “true” emission models, including but not limited to the ones examined herein, which will improve the usability of PFAS monitoring in MFA, risk assessment and policy design, and vice versa.
Sexual dimorphism in the first rib of Homo sapiens
Authors: Arlegi Mikel , García‐Sagastibelza Andrea , Veschambre‐Couture Christine , Gómez‐Olivencia Asier
Published: November 2021

This work aimed to study sexual dimorphism in the first rib of modern humans, with a special focus on whether differences in shape are due to divergent allometric growth in males and females. Also, we compare the accuracy of sex classification using different approaches based on two methodologies, traditional morphometry based on linear measurements and geometric morphometric analysis based on 2D landmark coordinates. The sample studied here comprised 121 right and left first ribs from 65 female and male adult recent Euro‐American Homo sapiens individuals. For traditional morphometrics, 12 metric variables were collected from each rib using a digital caliper, and for geometric morphometrics, six landmarks and 31 semilandmarks were captured from photographs using digital software. Both geometric morphometric and metric data were analyzed to calculate the index of sexual dimorphism, variation related to lateral asymmetry, variation in size and shape, and allometric trends between males and females. Finally, a linear discriminant analysis (LDA) was performed comparing both methodologies to test the best approach for sex classification. Results indicated that there are significant sex differences in the size and shape of the first ribs of recent Euro‐American Homo sapiens. Regression analysis revealed different allometric patterns for males and females, and this could partially explain shape differences between sexes. Additionally, traditional morphometrics showed that all characteristics analyzed are significantly dimorphic, with the midshaft minimum craniocaudal diameter, the sternal end minimum diameter, and the neck minimum craniocaudal diameter displaying the most dimorphic scores. Similarly, geometric morphometrics results indicated that males have more curved and interno‐exteriorly wider first ribs. Finally, analysis of sex classification using LDA yielded slightly better accuracy for traditional morphometry (83.8%) than the geometric morphometrics approach (81.3%) based on form Procrustes coordinates. This study demonstrates the usefulness of applying two different morphometric approaches to obtain more comprehensive results.
A school rampage threatens beliefs in justice: A longitudinal study of the belief in a just world among Chinese adolescents
Authors: Stupnianek Kotryna , Wu Michael Shengtao , Schmitt Manfred
Published: November 2021

Introduction

The current study examined whether and how severe injustice such as a school attack threatens the belief in a just world (BJW).

Method

We collected longitudinal data on the BJW from adolescents in China who witnessed random school attacks on the news (N = 227).

Results

Change analyses provided evidence that the BJW increased after witnessing severe injustice. Furthermore, we tested for moderating effects of buffer variables, such as life satisfaction and perceived social support, on change in the BJW. Findings showed that these variables buffered the threat to the BJW after observing unfairness.

Discussion

We discuss these results in the context of justice motive theory and suggest implications for future research and practical implications.
A qualitative content analysis of an online forum for people with kidney disease: Exploring the role of companion and non‐companion animals
Authors: Jackson Tara , Chur‐Hansen Anna , Duncanson Emily , Jesudason Shilpanjali
Published: November 2021

Background

Companion and other animals have been known to promote wellbeing of people living with chronic disease by assisting in emotional regulation, social interaction and enhancing self‐identity. However, little is known about the impact of animals on people with kidney disease, who often live with treatment burden, as well as compromised immune systems making them vulnerable to zoonotic diseases.

Objectives

To explore the impact companion and non‐companion animals have on the lives of people living with kidney disease.

Design

Qualitative Content Analysis of 518 posts from an online forum.

Participants

One hundred seventy‐two people (109 female, 41 male and 22 unknown) posting to an online forum for people undergoing kidney dialysis.

Results

Benefits of bonds with animals included reciprocal love and affection, emotional support, stress reduction, aiding relaxation, assisting social interaction, animals' intuitive comfort when unwell, feelings of loyalty, and motivation to live, concerns relating to zoonotic disease risk, and patients' impressions of health professionals' opinions on animals.

Conclusions

This study reinforces the existence of strong bonds between humans and animals, as well as demonstrating the importance of and concerns regarding interacting with non‐companion animals for people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). There is a mismatch between patients' perception of infection risk and the advice and opinions of some healthcare professionals. Recognition and support for the role of animals as social supports are warranted in history taking, patient education of risk, and the biopsychosocial benefits of animals.
High prevalence of CFHR deletions in Indian women with pregnancy‐associated hemolytic uremic syndrome
Authors: Kandari Sharon , Chakurkar Vipul , Gaikwad Snehal , Agarwal Meenal , Phadke Nikhil , Lobo Valentine
Published: November 2021

Aim

Pregnancy‐associated hemolytic uremic syndrome (P‐aHUS) is an important cause of peripartum acute kidney injury. Studies from Europe have described mutations in complement regulator genes, and data in Indian patients is scarce. Hence this study used multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) to identify variants in complement genes in P‐aHUS patients.

Methods

We present 17 patients of P‐aHUS who were investigated for complement protein levels and genetic analysis with MLPA for complement genes. Plasma exchange therapy was offered to all patients presenting in acute phase.

Results

Mean age 26.74 (3.36) years with 15/17 delivered by caesarean section. Eleven patients received early (within 7 days) plasma exchange, three were dialysis‐dependent at 3 months and seven were dialysis‐free. Only one of the three patients receiving late (after 7 days) plasma exchange was dialysis‐free. MLPA showed that 11 patients had heterozygous deletions of exons 3, 5, 6 of CFHR1 and upstream region of exons 1, 2, 3, 6 and intron 4 of CFHR3 gene while four patients had homozygous deletions at the same loci. Two patients had no MLPA‐detectable variations.

Conclusion

This study reports a high proportion of deletions of exons of CFHR1 & CFHR3 genes in Indian P‐aHUS patients detectable by MLPA by copy number variations. This needs confirmation in large multicentre studies. Plasma exchange can be an effective therapy in the non‐availability of Eculizumab.
Transgender adolescent and young adult suicide: A bioecological perspective
Authors: Anderson Avery M. , Ford Jodi
Published: November 2021

Suicide is a public health crisis disproportionately affecting transgender adolescents and young adults. There are gaps in research evaluating this phenomenon using a multilevel, life‐course approach. The following paper will provide an overview of the current models of suicide, critique their applicability to understanding suicide among transgender youth, and discuss how using a bioecological systems approach will help to advance our understanding of suicide among transgender youth. Transgender adolescents and young adults often face unique combinations of interpersonal and intrapersonal challenges that require managing a stark misalignment of social characters, expectations, and roles. These factors are imposed by the complex interactions and influences of the bioecological systems in which transgender adolescents and young adults are situated. Future research is needed to elucidate the characteristics of bioecological adversity faced by this vulnerable population. Identification of these relationships are likely to highlight effective targets for multilevel interventions aimed at preventing suicide.
Cutting tree rings into time slices: how intra‐annual dynamics of wood formation help decipher the space‐for‐time conversion
Authors: Pérez‐de‐Lis Gonzalo , Rathgeber Cyrille B. K. , Fernández‐de‐Uña Laura , Ponton Stéphane
Published: November 2021

Tree‐ring anatomy, microdensity and isotope records provide valuable intra‐annual information. However, extracting signals at that scale is challenged by the complexity of xylogenesis, where two major processes – cell enlargement and wall thickening – occur at different times and rates.

We characterized the space‐for‐time association in the tree rings of three conifer species by examining the duration, overlapping, inter‐tree synchronicity and interannual stability during cell enlargement and wall thickening across regular tree‐ring sectors (portions of equal tangential width).

The number of cells and cell differentiation rates determined the duration of sector formation, which augmented more rapidly throughout the ring for wall thickening than for enlargement. Increasing the number of sectors above c. 15 had a limited effect on improving time resolution because consecutive sector formation overlapped greatly in time, especially in narrow rings and during wall thickening. Increasing the number of sectors also resulted in lower synchronicity and stability of intermediate‐sector enlargement, whereas all sectors showed high synchronicity and stability during wall thickening.

Increasing the number of sectors had a stronger effect on enhancing time‐series resolution for enlargement‐ than for wall‐thickening‐related traits, which would nevertheless produce more reliable intra‐annual chronologies as a result of the more similar calendars across trees and years in wall thickening.