bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison of elk‐vehicle collision patterns with demographic and abundance data in the Central Canadian Rocky Mountains
Authors: Gunson Kari Elizabeth , Clevenger Anthony Paul , Ford Adam Thomas
Published: November 2022

Wildlife‐vehicle collisions are a widespread phenomenon that are influenced by species behavior, abundance, and road and landscape interactions. The mortality rate of different age and sex classes can buffer or exacerbate how the population responds to vehicle collisions. We evaluated the demographic‐specific patterns of elk‐vehicle collisions in the Central Canadian Rocky Mountains. More females and adults were involved in collisions, but when compared to the sex and age of the population, males and subadults were more prone to collisions in the fall. The fat marrow content (condition) of elk was greater for road‐ and rail‐kill than predator‐killed elk indicating that vehicle collisions are an additive source of mortality. As traffic volumes increased elk collisions decreased because elk declined over the study period. Evaluation of long‐term datasets can assist in designing mitigation that target the most vulnerable demographics of a population. For example, larger more open wildlife crossing structures have shown to be more suitable for vulnerable demographics such as female grizzly bears, male ungulates, and female ungulates traveling with young. When crossing structures are not practical, demographic‐specific information can inform outreach and awareness programs that strive to elicit a favorable response from motorists ultimately avoiding collisions with animals on roads.
The effects of landscape complexity and local management on a generalist predator in Kenyan maize push‐pull systems
Authors: Salzberg Annika , Luttermoser Tim , Kessler André , Midega Charles A. O. , Khan Zeyaur , Poveda Katja
Published: November 2022

Farmers looking to maximize ecosystem services often use diversification practices on their fields to increase abundance and diversity of insect natural enemies. These practices affect functional traits of natural enemies such as body size that can play an important role in their effectiveness as biological control agents. However, landscape features out of the control of farmers might also affect functional traits of natural enemies and their herbivores, including land use surrounding farms. There have been few studies elucidating how landscape complexity and local diversity interact to affect functional traits, and ultimately ecosystem services such as predation on herbivore pests. We examined combined effects of landscape complexity and a local management practice (push‐pull) on lady beetle size, and its consequences for egg predation of lepidopteran pests in Kenyan smallholder maize farms. Cheilomenes sulphurea (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), a potential predator of the invasive fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), was collected in push‐pull and control fields along a landscape gradient. We measured beetle size and conducted feeding assays with fall armyworm eggs. We found that female beetles had larger bodies in landscapes with greater complexity. Predation rates not only increased as a response to beetle size but also in response to landscape complexity, suggesting it is not just size that determines predation. Surprisingly, we did not find any effect of the local management practice or its interaction on functional traits or predation rates. Our study suggests that landscape complexity could benefit pest control through two mechanisms: (1) increase in predator body size, leading to higher predation rates; and (2) changes in predator behavior as a function of landscape characteristics – increasing egg predation. Further studies on these mechanisms would allow deeper understanding of landscape simplification's effect on ecosystem services, as mediated by morphological and behavioral traits, and help us harness these traits to increase biological control.
A diverse parasite pool can improve effectiveness of biological control constrained by genotype‐by‐genotype interactions
Authors: Mundim Fabiane M. , Gibson Amanda K.
Published: November 2022

The outcomes of biological control programs can be highly variable, with natural enemies often failing to establish or spread in pest populations. This variability has posed a major obstacle in use of the bacterial parasite Pasteuria penetrans for biological control of Meloidogyne species, economically devastating plant‐parasitic nematodes for which there are limited management options. A leading hypothesis for this variability in control is that infection is successful only for specific combinations of bacterial and nematode genotypes. Under this hypothesis, failure of biological control results from the use of P. penetrans genotypes that cannot infect local Meloidogyne genotypes. We tested this hypothesis using isofemale lines of M. arenaria derived from a single field population and multiple sources of P. penetrans from the same and nearby fields. In strong support of the hypothesis, susceptibility to infection depended on the specific combination of host line and parasite source, with lines of M. arenaria varying substantially in which P. penetrans source could infect them. In light of this result, we tested whether using a diverse pool of P. penetrans could increase infection and thereby control. We found that increasing the diversity of the P. penetrans inoculum from one to eight sources more than doubled the fraction of M. arenaria individuals susceptible to infection and reduced variation in susceptibility across host lines. Together, our results highlight genotype‐by‐genotype specificity as an important cause of variation in biological control and call for the maintenance of genetic diversity in natural enemy populations.
Genome‐wide profiling reveals pervasive transcriptional alterations in fibroblasts derived from lesional skin in vitiligo including a reduced potential to proliferate
Authors: Gupta Rohit , Misri Rachita , Gupta Aayush , Chowdhary Manish , Singh Archana
Published: November 2022

Fibroblasts interact with keratinocytes and melanocytes to maintain skin homeostasis. However, the impact of selective melanocyte loss on the transcriptome of fibroblasts is not fully understood. Thus, we sought to understand the genome‐wide transcriptome of fibroblasts derived from non‐lesional (NL) and lesional (L) dermis in patients with non‐segmental vitiligo. Transcriptional profiling of NL and L fibroblasts was performed on three individuals with vitiligo using next‐generation‐sequencing. Functional protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed for the significantly upregulated and downregulated genes, as well as for a common set of genes that were downregulated in both fibroblasts and epidermis in L skin (identified previously). Proliferation potential of NL and L fibroblasts was assessed experimentally. Genome‐wide transcriptome analysis revealed a total of 414 (282, downregulated; 132, upregulated) differentially expressed (DE)‐transcripts in L as compared to NL fibroblasts. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering of DE‐transcripts segregated L and NL fibroblasts into two distinct clades, despite the apparent heterogeneity in lesions of different vitiligo patients. Gene Ontology analysis of downregulated genes revealed enrichment of keratinocyte‐specific biological processes such as cornification and keratinization. PPI networks constructed for the downregulated and upregulated genes revealed deregulation of several hub genes associated with cell cycle regulation and cAMP metabolism respectively. Similarly, the PPI networks constructed for 67 genes downregulated in both fibroblasts as well as epidermis of L skin revealed downregulation of hub genes including stratifin, PIK3CG and CDH1. Analysis of the in vitro proliferation potential of L fibroblasts revealed a decrease in the expression of proliferation markers Ki67, MCM6, pERK and pCDK2, a decreased S phase population and an increase in alpha‐SMA and collagen expression, corroborating the downregulation of hub genes associated with proliferation identified by PPI network analysis. Our study revealed pervasive transcriptional alterations in L compared to NL fibroblasts in vitiligo. The PPI analysis suggested a reduced potential to proliferate in melanocyte‐deprived lesional fibroblasts, which was validated experimentally as well.
Does systemic hydrochlorothiazide increase the risk of developing ultraviolet radiation‐induced skin tumours in hairless mice?
Authors: Lerche Catharina M. , Al‐Chaer Rami Nabil , Wulf Hans Christian
Published: November 2022

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a frequently prescribed diuretic that exhibits photosensitizing properties. It is used to treat hypertension and edema. Dermato‐epidemiological studies in various populations have linked HCTZ treatment with increased risk of particular types of skin cancer, including malignant melanoma (lentigo subtype), and both basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). This study investigated whether either of two different doses of HCTZ increased the risk of SCC development in mice exposed to ultraviolet radiation (UVR). A total of three groups of hairless mice were used in this study (total, N = 71). One group received a low dose (0.26 mg/mouse/day) and another group received a high dose (0.52 mg/mouse/day) of HCTZ in their drinking water; a third UVR control group received only tap water. All three groups were irradiated with UVR until the mice developed three tumours that were 4 mm in size. The times to SCC tumour development were recorded. In the low‐dose group, the median time to develop an SCC tumour was 170 days; in both the high‐dose group and the control group, the median time to develop anexd SCC tumour was 163 days (p ≥ 0.331). In our hairless mouse model, we found that mice treated with UVR plus HCTZ did not develop SCCs more rapidly than mice treated with UVR but not HCTZ.
Rapid adaptation in a fast‐changing world: Emerging insights from insect genomics
Authors: McCulloch Graham A. , Waters Jonathan M.
Published: November 2022

Many researchers have questioned the ability of biota to adapt to rapid anthropogenic environmental shifts. Here, we synthesize emerging genomic evidence for rapid insect evolution in response to human pressure. These new data reveal diverse genomic mechanisms (single locus, polygenic, structural shifts; introgression) underpinning rapid adaptive responses to a variety of anthropogenic selective pressures. While the effects of some human impacts (e.g. pollution; pesticides) have been previously documented, here we highlight startling new evidence for rapid evolutionary responses to additional anthropogenic processes such as deforestation. These recent findings indicate that diverse insect assemblages can indeed respond dynamically to major anthropogenic evolutionary challenges. Our synthesis also emphasizes the critical roles of genomic architecture, standing variation and gene flow in maintaining future adaptive potential. Broadly, it is clear that genomic approaches are essential for predicting, monitoring and responding to ongoing anthropogenic biodiversity shifts in a fast‐changing world.
Comparisons of biomass, water use efficiency and water use strategies across five genomic groups ofPopulusand its hybrids
Authors: Renninger Heidi J. , Pitts Justin J. , Rousseau Randall J.
Published: November 2022

Genetic improvement and hybridization in thePopulusgenus have led to the development of genotypes exhibiting fast growth, high rooting ability and disease resistance. However, while large biomass production is important for bioenergy crops, efficient use of resources including water is also important in sites lacking irrigation and for maintaining ecosystem water availability. In addition, comparison of water use strategies across a range of growth rates and genetic variability can elucidate whether certain strategies are shared among the fastest growing and/or most water use efficient genotypes. We estimated tree water use throughout the second growing season via sapflow sensors of 48 genotypes from fivePopulustaxa;P. deltoidesW. Bartram ex Marshall × P. deltoides(D × D),P. deltoides × P. maximowicziiA. Henry (D × M),P. deltoides × P. nigraL. (D × N),P. deltoides × P. trichocarpaTorr. & Gray (D × T) andP. trichocarpa × P. deltoides(T × D) and calculated average canopy stomatal conductance (GS). We regressedGSand atmospheric vapor pressure deficit (VPD) wherein the slope of the relationship represents stomatal sensitivity to VPD. At the end of the second growing season, trees were harvested, and their dry woody biomass was used to calculate whole tree water use efficiency (WUET). We found that D × D and D × M genotypes exhibited differing water use strategies with D × D genotypes exhibiting high stomatal sensitivity while retaining leaves while D × M genotypes lost leaf area throughout the growing season but exhibited low stomatal sensitivity. Across measured taxa, biomass growth was positively correlated with WUET, and genotypes representing each measured taxa except D × N and T × D had high 2‐year dry biomass of above 6 kg/tree. Overall, these data can be used to selectPopulusgenotypes that combine high biomass growth with stomatal sensitivity and WUETto limit the negative impacts of bioenergy plantations on ecosystem water resources.
COVID‐19 community assessment hubs in Ireland: A study of staff and patient perceptions of their value
Authors: McAuliffe Eilish , Mulcahy Symmons Sophie , Conlon Ciara , Rogers Lisa , De Brún Aoife , Mannion Marese , Keane Niamh , Glynn Liam , Ryan Joseph , Quinlan Diarmuid
Published: November 2022

Background

Critical care bed capacity per capita in Ireland is among the lowest in Europe. The COVID‐19 pandemic has put additional strain on an over‐stretched healthcare system. COVID‐19 community assessment hubs (CAHs) were established to prevent unnecessary admission to acute hospitals and to reduce infection spread.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and acceptability of CAHs and identify how the service might be improved or adapted for possible future use.

Design

This was a mixed methods study, incorporating co‐design with clinical stakeholders. Data collection was via an online survey and semistructured telephone interviews with staff and patients conducted between January and May 2021.

Setting and participants

Thirty‐one patients completed the survey and nine were interviewed. Twenty interviews were conducted with staff.

Results

The findings suggest that the CAH model was successful in providing a dedicated pathway for assessing patients with COVID‐19 symptoms, whilst mitigating the risk of infection. Patients were particularly positive about the timely, comprehensive and holistic care they received, as well as the accessibility of the clinics and the friendly attitudes of the staff. Staff welcomed the training and clinical protocols which contributed to their feelings of safety and competency in delivering care to this cohort of patients. They also highlighted the benefits of working in a multidisciplinary environment. Both staff and patients felt that the hubs could be repurposed for alternative use, including the treatment of chronic diseases.

Discussion

This study describes staff and patients' experiences of these hubs. An unexpected outcome of this study is its demonstration of the true value of effective multidisciplinary working, not only for the staff who were deployed to this service but also for the patients in receipt of care in these hubs.

Conclusion

This multidisciplinary patient‐centred service may provide a useful model for the delivery of other services currently delivered in hospital settings.

Patient or Public Contribution

An earlier phase of this study involved interviews with COVID‐19‐positive patients on a remote monitoring programme. The data informed this phase. Several of the authors had worked in the CAHs and provided valuable input into the design of the staff and patient interviews.
Reproducible method for assessing the effects of blue light using in vitro human skin tissues
Authors: Kala Rishabh , Heiberger Nicole , Mallin Heather , Wheeler Stephanie , Langerveld Anna
Published: November 2022

Introduction

High‐intensity visible light (HEV), also referred to as blue light, has a wavelength of 400–500 nm and accounts for approximately one‐third of the visible light. Blue light is also emitted from electronic devices and artificial indoor lighting. Studies have shown that exposure of human skin cells to light emitted from electronic devices, even as short as 1 h, can cause an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), apoptosis and necrosis. Despite comprising a significant portion of the light spectrum, the effects of HEV light have not been studied as extensively. This is in part due to a lack of suitable in vitro testing methods. This work was conducted in order to develop a reproducible testing method for assessing the effects of blue light on the skin.

Methods

Testing was performed using a full thickness, 3D in vitro skin tissue model. Different exposure protocols were tested to (1) determine the biological effects of blue light on the skin and (2) to identify an appropriate exposure for routine testing of cosmetic materials that may protect the skin from blue light damage. Gene expression and protein biomarkers were measured using qPCR, ELISA and immunohistochemical (IHC) methods.

Results

Our work demonstrates that daily exposure to blue light produced dose‐and‐time‐dependent changes in biomarkers associated with skin damage. Exposure to blue light for 6 h for 5 consecutive days (total intensity of 30 J/cm2) increased the expression of genes that regulate inflammation and oxidative stress pathways and decreased the expression of genes that maintain skin barrier and tissue integrity. Exposure to blue light significantly increased protein biomarkers associated with ageing, inflammation and tissue damage. IHC staining confirmed changes in collagen, filaggrin and NQO1 protein expression. Treatment with ascorbic acid inhibited the effects of blue light, demonstrating a role in protection from blue light.

Conclusion

Our results showed that consistent blue light exposure produced skin damage via alterations in biological pathways that are associated with skin ageing. This work provides a new, reproducible in vitro testing method for assessing the effects of blue light on human skin using gene expression, protein ELISA and IHC staining.
Effect of Mo and W interlayers on microstructure and mechanical properties of Si3N4–nickel‐base superalloy joints
Authors: Singh Mrityunjay , Fernandez Julian Martinez , Asthana Rajiv , Ramirez‐Rico Joaquin , Valera‐Feria Francisco Manuel
Published: November 2022

Si3N4/nickel‐base superalloy (Inconel‐625) and Si3N4/Si3N4 joints with refractory metal (W and Mo) interlayers were vacuum brazed using a Ti‐active braze Cu‐ABA (92.75Cu–3Si–2Al–2.25Ti) at 1317 K for 30 min with the following interlayered arrangements: Si3N4/Mo/W/Inconel and Si3N4/Mo/W/Si3N4. The joints exhibited Ti segregation at the Si3N4/Cu‐ABA interface, elemental interdiffusion across the joint interfaces, and sound metallurgical bonding. Knoop microhardness profiles revealed hardness gradients across the joints that mimicked the interlayered arrangement. The compressive shear strength of Si3N4/Si3N4 joints both with and without W and Mo layers was ∼142 MPa but the strength of Si3N4/Inconel joints increased from ∼9 MPa for directly bonded joints without interlayers to 53.5 MPa for joints with Mo and W interlayers.
A gene chip study suggests that miR‐17‐3p is associated with diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Sun Xin‐juan , Chen Jin‐an , Wang Lei , Li Gai , Wang Ai‐ping
Published: November 2022

Background of the Study Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are severe effect of diabetes. This research aimed to discover the role of micro‐ribonucleic acid (miRNA) in treating DFUs involved in maggot debridement therapy (MDT) via a miRNA chip study. A miRNA chip approach was adopted. Patients with diabetes (type 1 or 2) who had at least one‐foot ulcer (current or previous) were enrolled in the study. The alterations of miRNA expressions in the granulation tissue during treatment with MDT were measured. Following MDT, the increased expression of miR17‐92 was verified in vivo. The miR‐17‐3p expression increased, and Flk‐1 (vascular endothelial growth factor) expression was significantly reduced in patients with DFUs who received MDT (P < 0.01). Results from human umbilical vein endothelial cells that excrete or secrete showed consistency with in vitro findings (P < 0.001, P < 0.05). The overexpression of miR‐17‐3p demonstrated inhibitory activity on tube formation (P < 0.05). When DFUs were treated with MDT, it revealed that miR‐17‐3p had a negative regulatory effect on Flk‐1.
Compulsory Vaccination and Nozickian Rights
Authors: Clarke Simon
Published: November 2022

This article examines compulsory vaccination from the perspective of Nozick's theory of rights. It argues that the unvaccinated are a threat, even if unintended, to the rights of others. The reasons Nozick provides for when such threats may be forcibly prevented, such as the identifiability of the rights violator, general fear of the risky activity, probability of harm, and the general benefits of the activity, are examined, and it is argued that those reasons weigh in favour of prohibition of the threat and hence in favour of compulsory vaccination. It is also argued that anyone opposed to compulsory vaccination on Nozickian grounds faces a dilemma: if they reject compulsory vaccination, they also risk rejecting the very foundations of the legitimacy of the state.
Focal pancreatic ductal change induced by 10‐Fr S‐type plastic stent in chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Takuma Kensuke , Okano Naoki , Ito Ken , Ujita Wataru , Iwata Shuntaro , Mizutani Saori , Nakagawa Hiroki , Watanabe Koji , Yamada Yuto , Kimura Yusuke , Yoshimoto Kensuke , Iwasaki Susumu , Hara Seiichi , Kishimoto Yui , Igarashi Yoshinori , Matsuda Takahisa , Amemiya Kazuki
Published: November 2022

Background and Aim

Stent‐induced ductal change (SIDC) is a complication of endoscopic pancreatic stenting (EPS) in patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP). However, the evaluation of SIDC associated with S‐type pancreatic plastic stent (PS) and large‐caliber PS, such as 10 Fr, is limited. This study aimed to analyze the SIDC of the main pancreatic duct (MPD) associated with 10‐Fr S‐type PS in patients with CP.

Methods

Between January 2008 and December 2021, 132 patients with CP in whom a 10‐Fr S‐type PS had been installed by EPS were retrospectively reviewed. The SIDC incidence rate was examined, and the clinical features of patients with and without SIDC were investigated, including the outcomes for detected SIDC.

Results

Stent‐induced ductal change during EPS was confirmed in 41 patients (31.1%) of 132 patients at a site coincident with the PS tip or distal flap in the MPD. All patients were asymptomatic during the development of SIDC. Morphological changes in the MPD were detected as elevated (75.6%) or bearing stricture changes (24.4%). A total of 90.2% of SIDC developed after the first 10‐Fr PS installation. No significant differences were noted between the patients with and without SIDC. The outcomes of continued PS installment for SIDC showed persistence and secondary change.

Conclusions

Stent‐induced ductal change‐associated 10‐Fr PS installation was performed in just under one‐third of the patients, indicating a substantial incidence rate and a possible development of SIDC from early stages onwards. More emphasis should be placed on SIDC as the complication.
Use of long‐term services and supports among dual‐eligible beneficiaries with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias
Authors: Kim Hyunjee , Senders Angela , Simeon Erika , Juarez Cesar , Huang Sean , Dodge Hiroko , McConnell K. John
Published: November 2022

Background

To respect people's preference for aging in place and control costs, many state Medicaid programs have enacted policies to expand home and community‐based services as an alternative to nursing facility care. However, little is known about the use of Medicaid long‐term services and supports (LTSS) at a national level, particularly among dual‐eligible beneficiaries with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD).

Methods

Using Medicare and Medicaid claims of 30 states from 2016, we focused on dual‐eligible beneficiaries 65 years or older with ADRD and described their use of any form of LTSS and sub‐types of LTSS (home‐based, community‐based, and nursing facility services) across states.

Results

We found that 80.5% of dual‐eligible beneficiaries with ADRD received some form of Medicaid LTSS in 2016. The most common LTSS setting was nursing facility (46.7%), followed by home (31.5%) and community (12.2%). There was sizeable state variation in the percentage of dual‐eligible beneficiaries with ADRD who used any form of LTSS (ranging from 61% in Maine to 96% in Montana). The type of LTSS used also varied widely across states. For example, home‐based service use ranged from 9% in Maine, Arizona, and South Dakota to 62% in Oregon. Nursing facility services were the most common type of LTSS in most states. However, home‐based service use exceeded nursing facility use in Oregon, Alaska, and California.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest substantially different use of LTSS across states among dual‐eligible beneficiaries with ADRD. Given the importance of LTSS for this population and their families, a deeper understanding of state LTSS policies and other factors that contribute to wide state variation in LTSS use will be necessary to improve access to LTSS across states.
Rice FLOURY ENDOSPERM22, encoding a pentatricopeptide repeat protein, is involved in both mitochondrial RNA splicing and editing and is crucial for endosperm development
Authors: Yang Hang , Wang Yunlong , Tian Yunlu , Teng Xuan , Lv Zehui , Lei Jie , Duan Erchao , Dong Hui , Yang Xue , Zhang Yuanyan , Sun Yinglun , Chen Xiaoli , Bao Xiuhao , Chen Rongbo , Gu Chuanwei , Zhang Yipeng , Jiang Xiaokang , Ma Wenyu , Zhang Pengcheng , Ji Yi , Zhang Yu , Wang Yihua , Wan Jianmin
Published: November 2022

Most of the reported P‐type pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins play roles in organelle RNA stabilization and splicing. However, P‐type PPRs involved in both RNA splicing and editing have rarely been reported, and their underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. Here, we report a rice floury endosperm22 (flo22) mutant with delayed amyloplast development in endosperm cells. Map‐based cloning and complementation tests demonstrated that FLO22 encodes a mitochondrion‐localized P‐type PPR protein. Mutation of FLO22 resulting in defective trans‐splicing of mitochondrial nad1 intron 1 and perhaps causing instability of mature transcripts affected assembly and activity of complex Ⅰ, and mitochondrial morphology and function. RNA‐seq analysis showed that expression levels of many genes involved in starch and sucrose metabolism were significantly down‐regulated in the flo22 mutant compared with the wild type, whereas genes related to oxidative phosphorylation and the tricarboxylic acid cycle were significantly up‐regulated. In addition to involvement in splicing as a P‐type PPR protein, we found that FLO22 interacted with DYW3, a DYW‐type PPR protein, and they may function synergistically in mitochondrial RNA editing. The present work indicated that FLO22 plays an important role in endosperm development and plant growth by participating in nad1 maturation and multi‐site editing of mitochondrial messager RNA.
The Five Cs of Positive Youth Development: Configurations of Thriving in Four U.S. Adolescent Samples
Authors: Johnson Sara K. , Ettekal Andrea Vest
Published: November 2022

Positive youth development (PYD) models are widespread, but the empirical evidence for them is primarily nomothetic (i.e., investigations of universal patterns). Contemporary developmental theory suggests that concepts and processes within PYD models should also be explored with respect to specificity. This study demonstrates how the Five Cs Model, a predominant PYD model, can be advanced using group‐differential methods. Secondary data from four studies of adolescents were used to test: (1) Whether there were subgroups who varied in their patterns of scores across the Five Cs, and (2) Whether subgroups also varied in Contribution behaviors. Unexpectedly, the four data sets used could not be combined, yielding an opportunity to discuss consistencies and inconsistencies in findings across the four data sets through contextual and sample differences. Findings demonstrate how understanding specificity in theorized concepts and processes in PYD models can complement studies of universal patterns, which are both necessary to advance PYD research and practice.
Association of socio‐economic status and ethnicity with mortality and morbidity of premature infants admitted to neonatal intensive care in South Auckland, New Zealand
Authors: Pacella Marisa J , Meyer Michael P
Published: November 2022

Aim

Socio‐economic status (SES) and ethnicity have been associated with worse maternal and fetal outcomes. Counties Manukau is a region of New Zealand which has a high portion of the population living in areas of low SES and has a higher population of ethnic minorities (Pacific Islander, Asian and Maaori). To determine whether SES and ethnicity are associated with worse mortality and morbidity in preterm infants in Counties Manukau Hospital, New Zealand.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study compared the infants of mothers who live in the most deprived neighbourhoods to the infants of mothers who live in the least deprived neighbourhoods. Infants born between 2000 and 2019 were included if <30 weeks gestation or <1500 g and born in hospital. Primary outcome was combined mortality/morbidity.

Results

Univariate analysis showed demographic differences between the SES and ethnic groups, for example maternal age and maternal smoking. Using logistic regression, SES was not associated with worse neonatal outcomes for the most deprived SES (n = 624) compared to least deprived SES (n = 164). Ethnicity (n = 1326) was not associated with worse neonatal outcomes. Gestational age and maternal smoking were associated with neonatal mortality/morbidity; gestational age and antenatal steroids were associated with neonatal mortality. It was notable that the proportion of the study population in the less deprived groups used for the comparisons was relatively low.

Conclusions

For preterm, in‐hospital births in Counties Manukau over a 20‐year period, neonatal outcomes were the same regardless of SES or ethnicity.
Sleep disorders among rural Veterans: Relative prevalence, comorbidities, and comparisons with urban Veterans
Authors: Folmer Robert L. , Smith Connor J. , Boudreau Eilis A. , Totten Annette M. , Chilakamarri Priyanka , Atwood Charles W. , Sarmiento Kathleen F.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

To describe and compare demographic characteristics and comorbidities of rural and urban Veterans diagnosed with sleep disorders, and to evaluate whether rurality is a disparity for sleep care among Veterans.

Methods

Numbers of Veterans with sleep disorders and comorbid conditions were determined using the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA's) Corporate Data Warehouse, a database that contains detailed clinical information for all Veterans who receive VA health care. Comparisons between urban and rural Veterans were conducted for fiscal years (FY) 2010‐2021.

Findings

The prevalence of diagnosed sleep disorders was similar among rural and urban Veterans from FY2010 to 2021 and increased for both groups during this time period. The prevalence of chronic pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, and diabetes mellitus was higher for rural Veterans with sleep disorders compared to their urban counterparts. From 2012 to 2021, the percentage of rural Veterans who received sleep care at VA facilities was lower than the percentage of urban Veterans who received VA sleep care during the same time span.

Conclusions

Although rural Veterans exhibited a higher prevalence of 3 comorbid conditions associated with sleep disorders, the prevalence of sleep disorder diagnoses was similar between rural and urban Veterans. Therefore, it is possible that sleep disorders are underdiagnosed among rural Veterans. The fact that rural Veterans received VA sleep care at a lower rate compared to urban Veterans indicates that rurality is a disparity in access to care in this population. VA is addressing this disparity through a variety of programs, including telehealth initiatives.
Phosphorylation status of CPK28 affects its ubiquitination and protein stability
Authors: Liu Xiaotong , Zhou Yuanyuan , Chen Kexin , Xiao Zejun , Liang Xuelian , Lu Dongping
Published: November 2022

Plant innate immunity is tightly regulated. The Arabidopsis thaliana CALCIUM‐DEPENDENT PROTEIN KINASE28 (CPK28) functions as a negative immune regulator. We recently demonstrate that CPK28 undergoes ubiquitination that is mediated by two ubiquitin ligases, ARABIDOPSIS TÓXICOS EN LEVADURA31 (ATL31) and ATL6, which results in its proteasomal degradation. CPK28 undergoes both intermolecular autophosphorylation and BIK1‐mediated phosphorylation. However, whether the phosphorylation status of CPK28 dictates its ubiquitination and degradation is unknown yet.

We used immune response analysis, transient degradation system, ubiquitination assays, co‐immunoprecipitation, and other biochemical and genetic approaches to investigate the effect of the phosphorylation status of CPK28 on its degradation mediated by ATL31/6.

We found the mutation of Ser318 (a site of both intermolecular autophosphorylation and BIK1‐mediated phosphorylation) or a BIK1 phosphorylation site on CPK28 leads to its compromised association with ATL31 and reduced ubiquitination by ATL31. Moreover, we confirm the previous findings that two CPK28s can interact with each other, which likely promotes the intermolecular autophosphorylation. We also show that the phosphorylation status of CPK28 in turn affects its intermolecular association.

We demonstrate that the phosphorylation status of CPK28 affects its degradation mediated by ATL31. Our findings reveal a link between phosphorylation of CPK28 and its ubiquitination and degradation.
Ichthyosis, petechiae, and arthrogryposis in a neonate
Authors: Haller Courtney N. , Paladichuk Hana , Ziats Catherine A. , Buchanan Catherine A. , Diaz Lucia Z.
Published: November 2022

Gaucher disease is a rare lysosomal storage disorder caused by a deficiency in glucocerebrosidase. This enzyme deficiency leads to the accumulation of toxic metabolites in various organs. Multiple subtypes of this disease have been described; however, the perinatal‐lethal form is extremely rare and challenging to diagnose. We present a case of a newborn girl with ichthyosis, petechiae, and arthrogryposis, later found to be homozygous for a pathogenic variant of the glucocerebrosidase gene. This case highlights the potential role of dermatologists in the recognition of this rare disease.
Recruitment in personnel psychology and beyond: Where we've been working, and where we might work next
Authors: Dineen Brian R. , Yu Kang Yang Trevor , Stevenson‐Street Julia
Published: November 2022

Effective recruitment of talent remains extremely critical. As part of Personnel Psychology's 75‐year anniversary celebration, we review the state of recruitment research, emphasizing the journal's extensive contributions to this literature. Specifically, we review contributions and opportunities in terms of the recruitment outcomes that have been studied, theoretical progress that has occurred, and methodologies that have been employed to inform scholarship and practice. Throughout, we particularly highlight trends that have occurred over the years in the pages of Personnel Psychology. We conclude with several implications for practice and directions for ongoing recruitment research.
Pyrroloquinolines, a New Platform for Developing Organic Photosensitizers: When Synthetic Methodology Meets Photophysics†
Authors: Amara Zacharias
Published: November 2022

New molecular architectures with triplet sensitization properties can have a big impact on photochemistry and photobiology. In their recent work, de Bonfils et al. have tackled this challenge in a very systematic way using a powerful synthetic strategy. This consists of an elegant yet practical organocatalyzed cyclization/oxidation rearrangement sequence which they now apply to the synthesis of pyrroloquinolines, a new scaffold for photosensitizers. However, beyond this new class of compounds, the strategy has potential to produce a myriad of compact organic chromophores with promising photoinduced intersystem crossing properties. The study therefore provides interesting clues to serve the rational design of biocompatible molecular photosensitizers but also raises puzzling questions on the intriguing excited state reactivity of these molecular architectures.
The contributions of potassium phosphite and hormonal pathways to the control of Phytophthora infestans in tomato cv. Micro‐Tom
Authors: Dallagnol Leandro J. , de Oliveira Tatiane S. , Simmi Francine Z. , Farias Raphael S. , Peres Lazaro E. P. , Pascholati Sérgio F. , Camargo Luis E. A.
Published: November 2022

Phytophthora infestans causes the destructive late blight disease in tomato and its control is achieved mainly by fungicides. Resistance inducers such as potassium phosphite (KPhi) represent an environmentally friendly alternative for control. The effect of KPhi on disease severity and on the activity of antioxidant enzymes was investigated in wild‐type (WT) Micro‐Tom plants and mutant/transgenic genotypes were used to determine the hormonal pathways required for resistance. KPhi presented a systemic action and reduced disease severity up to 86% depending on the mode (foliar spray or irrigation) and time of application (3 or 7 days before inoculation). The compound reduced the concentration of phenolics and altered the activity of antioxidant enzymes, notably of catalase, whose activity was reduced even before pathogen inoculation, indicating a physiological effect. In addition, KPhi was toxic to the pathogen in an in vitro assay. Disease severity on plants that overproduce ethylene, are insensitive to brassinosteroid (BR) or do not accumulate salicylic acid was higher than in the WT, revealing that these hormonal pathways are involved in the reaction to P. infestans. The results indicate a possible mode of action of KPhi through the early accumulation of H2O2 and interplay with the salicylic acid pathway. This is the first report on the involvement of BR against this pathogen and the results point to a positive effect on resistance. This study extends the understanding of the role of KPhi as a disease control agent, confirming it as a good option to be used in the management of late blight.
Before blaming the tooth extraction for the TTS, consider alternative triggers
Authors: Finsterer Josef , Stollberger Claudia
Published: November 2022

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS), also known as stress cardiomyopathy; is characterized by a clinical presentation similar to that of myocardial infarction but with normal coronary arteries. Four subtypes of TTS are distinguished, the classical type (apical form), the basal subtype, the reverse subtype, and the global subtype. TTS is triggered by physical stress in one‐third of cases, by psychological stress in another third, and in the remaining third of cases the trigger remains unknown. Whether stress during tooth root extraction can trigger TTS is unknown but some rare reports suggest that such a dental procedure can trigger TTS. However, before tooth root extraction can be held responsible for triggering TTS, various different causes must be ruled out.
Downslope variation in hemipelagic sedimentation in an active margin basin: An example from the lower Pleistocene Kiwada and Takamizo formations on the Boso Peninsula, Japan
Authors: Kurosawa Shiho , Furota Satoshi , Mitsui Mayu , Sawada Ken , Seike Koji , Furukawa Noboru , Ito Makoto
Published: November 2022

Hemipelagites are widespread fine‐grained sediments found from shelf margin to deep‐water environments, and they are considered to have been formed as background sedimentation by vertical settling and slow lateral advection of clastic and biogenic fine‐grained particles. Downflow variation in hemipelagic sedimentation, however, is not yet clearly understood, and was investigated in the lower Pleistocene Kiwada and Takamizo formations in the Kazusa forearc basin on the Boso Peninsula, Japan. Mapping of three tephra key beds enabled detailed correlation of two hemipelagite beds over a distance of ca 30 km from shelf‐margin to basin‐plain environments. The sedimentation rates decreased gradually in the downslope direction, but increased locally in response to turbidite sedimentation. This downslope variation indicates that hemipelagic sedimentation is not necessarily constant and varies in response to progradation and retrogradation of deep‐water depositional systems, as well as additional input of fine‐grained sediments from turbidity currents. In contrast, the grain size, magnetic susceptibility, clay‐mineral composition, total organic carbon contents relative to total nitrogen contents (carbon/nitrogen), and δ13C values of organic carbon do not exhibit distinct downslope variation. This downslope consistency indicates that hemipelagites document temporal perturbations of geological and palaeoclimatic conditions in hinterlands, regardless of spatial and temporal variations in deep‐water depositional environments. The concentrations of total organic carbon, total nitrogen and five biomarkers were lower values in turbiditic mudstones and hemipelagites that formed above a turbidite bed than in those of the other hemipelagites. This variation suggests that an additional supply of fine‐grained sediments from turbidity currents likely diluted the organic matter in the hemipelagites. In addition, hemipelagites for which deposition was affected by turbidity currents exhibit slightly lower δ13C values, and may also document an additional contribution of terrestrial organic matter from turbidity currents.
The Challenges of Corporatization Policy for Government Research and Technology Organizations for Wealth Creation
Authors: Suzana Aini , Maavak Mathew , Yong Chen-Chen
Published: November 2022

Malaysia’s economic transformation towards the status of a high income nation has led to the widespread demand for an accelerated corporatization policy; one where public sector agencies are transformed into business entities to facilitate the creation of knowledge and wealth. This shift was encouraged by successful corporatization models abroad, including those adopted by the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft in Germany; the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) in Korea; and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the United States. These institutions have since encouraged a similar corporatization process in emerging and third world nations. However, corporatization comes along with a unique set of institutional challenges. This study aims to investigate the corporatization processes undertaken by various government research and technology organizations (GR&TOs) in Malaysia, and then to evaluate their overall progress. The outcome of this study indicates that a myriad of challenges can be inverted into growth opportunities through the application of appropriate strategic planning.
Spurring Space Industry Development in Malaysia: the Enabling Capabilities
Authors: Hassan Azmi , Subari Mustafa Din
Published: November 2022

Malaysia’s endeavour to a space program is an important milestone in carving our very own niche in the space sector. This initiative can act as a catalyst, not only to the space industry, but also to the existing thriving local aerospace sector in the country. Science, technology and innovation are the main drivers that will move our nation’s economy forward. Aspects of these enabling capabilities are especially important to the development of the space industry, and are priorities for the success of Malaysia’s space initiative. The authors have identified five specific existing enablers that has Malaysia possessed in order to succeed in this highly competitive business. These enablers are; Supportive Government Policies; Strong and Developed Infrastructures; Innovative Financing Schemes; Vibrant Business Climate; and High Quality of Life. However, this study cautions that these enablers will only facilitate our space endeavour, but not necessarily ensure its success. This paper also dwells on the issue that these factors are not only important enablers to the space industry, but also can be promoters of innovative ideas and applications. Sometimes this is perceived as pushing technology, when, in fact, the entire system works together to provide solutions to delivery policy problems.
QUAD FLAT NO-LEAD PACKAGE WITH DIFFERENT THERMAL PROFILES AND SOLDER PAD FINISHING FOR VOID MINIMIZATION
Authors: Mahyuddin Muhammad Syahir , Abdullah Mohd. Zulkifly , Samsudin Zambri , Mansor Idris , Ming Lim Lai , Tura Ali Mohd Yusuf , Suhaimi Muhammad Irsyad , Hao Tung Lun , San Loh Yen
Published: November 2022

Voiding in solder joints is a common problem that occur in electronic packaging, specifically for bottom terminated component (BTC). Quad Flat No-Lead (QFN) is a good example of BTC component that susceptible to void. Thus, QFN component thermal pads were used as the test vehicle in this voiding assessment. The objectives of this study are to analyze the influence of the variables from every parameter evaluated in the experiment on voiding area in QFN thermal pad solder joint and obtain the best combination of variables that can minimize the total void area percentage inside QFN thermal pad solder joint down to below 5%. In this study, several variables and their impacts on voiding based on the literature review were studied. No clean lead-free solder paste of SAC305 composition was employed in this experiment. Various stencil patterns were tested, including Window-Pane, Round, and Triangle/Polygon. The influence of pad surface finishing of the test board on the voiding reduction was analyzed in this study. The effects of convection reflow of various profiles and atmospheres were also considered. All the variables were setup for the experiment execution which begins by solder paste printing, solder paste inspection, component pick & place, convection reflow soldering, Xray inspection, void data extraction & analysis, and finally void results compilation. The results shown that reflow profile Ramp-To-Spike (RTS) Long Reflow Time High Peak Temperature gave lesser void area % than Ramp-Soak-Spike (RSS) Long Soak and RTS Normal profiles.
Improving Vocabulary and Pronunciation of Secondary Level ESL Learners Through Language and Meaning-Focused Listening- An Experimental Study
Authors: Priya M. Lekha Swarna , N S Prasantha Kumar
Published: November 2022

Listening plays a larger role in language acquisition and is a critical aim for students in order to receive information generated in the target language. Its successful acquisition requires students to absorb cognitive processes and then use them in their spoken interactions in order to promote understanding in a variety of communication settings. It is the instructor's job to choose the most effective methods for ensuring students' effective learning of this language ability by selecting projects and resources that best meet their unique and linguistic learning requirements and interests. The main purpose of this research paper is to emphasize the critical role of Language-focused and Meaning-focused listening in the process of English as a second language (ESL) learning through an experimental study. Since, listening skill contributes a major part in the enhancement of ESL learners’ language proficiency, the feasible activities and strategies provided in this paper improve the vocabulary and pronunciation of secondary level ESL learners. The paper also discusses the processes of listening skill: top-down and bottom-up methods to emphasize the enhancement of ESL students’ vocabulary and pronunciation. The researcher has chosen grade 9 students of a government school as a sample for the experiment.