bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discovery of flower‐visiting fishflies: Adult Neochauliodes amamioshimanus (Megaloptera: Corydalidae) nocturnally forages on Schima wallichii ssp. noronhae trees
Authors: Sugiura Naoto , Miyazaki Satoshi
Published: February 2021

In the Megaloptera (alderflies, dobsonflies, and fishflies), a small taxon usually known for being aquatic insects, the bionomics of terrestrial adults in natural habitats remains largely unexplored. Here, we report the flower‐visiting habits of the adult nocturnal fishfly Neochauliodes amamioshimanus on Amami Island, the central Ryukyus, Japan. Field observations and examination of fishfly excrement revealed that the fishfly species routinely visits the carpenter bee‐pollinated tree Schima wallichii ssp. noronhae for pollen. For adults, pollen is probably an important food source because the excrement samples from both sexes frequently contained pollen. Furthermore, the intrafloral behavior suggested that flower‐visiting individuals also ingest nectar. Although some alderfly species have been presumed to visit flowers for food ingestion, the present study is the first to fully document floral resource utilization by megalopterans in natural habitats. We also discuss whether the fishfly species serves as a supplementary pollinator for the trees while foraging at night.
Mobbing responses of great tits (Parus major) do not depend on the number of heterospecific callers
Authors: Dutour Mylène , Randler Christoph
Published: February 2021

Numerical competence—the ability to estimate and process the number of objects and events—is important during antipredator strategies because it influences individual's survival chances. Animals can benefit from numerical competence during mobbing—when a prey moves toward and vocalizes at or harasses a predator. Mobbing responses of some species are related to the number of conspecific callers, and responses are stronger during playbacks simulating multiple callers. Here, we tested heterospecific individual vocal recognition (IVR) in combination with numerical competence in great tits (Parus major). Since previous work showed that great tits respond to mobbing calls of chaffinches (Fringilla coelebs), we predict that great tits showed a stronger response when two or four different individual chaffinches were played back versus only one individual by keeping the duty cycle (number of total calls/min) identical. Individuals were exposed to playbacks simulating calling by one, two or four heterospecific callers, or singing by one caller (control song). Great tits approached the speaker closer and produced more calls during the mobbing calls treatments than during the control treatment (song). However, in contrast to our prediction, great tits responded similarly to mobbing calls from several heterospecific callers as they did toward mobbing calls from one heterospecific caller. Maybe the great tits still are capable of determining the identity of the callers, but what might matter most for them in this very specific situation might be the mobbing intensity. We assume that the duty cycle itself has the stronger impact on the response.
Jazf1 acts as a regulator of insulin‐producing β‐cell differentiation in induced pluripotent stem cells and glucose homeostasis in mice
Authors: Park Si Jun , Kwon Wookbong , Park Song , Jeong Jain , Kim Dongjun , Jang Soyoung , Kim Si‐Yong , Sung Yonghun , Kim Myoung Ok , Choi Seong‐Kyoon , Ryoo Zae Young
Published: February 2021

Genetic susceptibility of type 2 diabetes and Juxtaposed with another zinc finger protein 1 (Jazf1) has been reported; however, the precise role of Jazf1 in metabolic processes remains elusive. In this study, using Jazf1‐knockout (KO)‐induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), pancreatic beta cell line MIN6 cells, and Jazf‐1 heterozygous KO (Jazf1+/−) mice, the effect of Jazf1 on gradual differentiation was investigated. We checked the alterations of the genes related with β‐cell specification, maturation, and insulin release against glucose treatment by the gain and loss of the Jazf1 gene in the MIN6 cells. Because undifferentiated Jazf1‐KO iPSC were not significantly different from wild‐type (WT) iPSC, the size and endoderm marker expression after embryoid body (EB) and teratoma formation were investigated. Compared to EB and teratomas formed with WT iPSC, the EB and teratomas from with Jazf1‐KO iPSC were smaller, and in teratomas, the expression of proliferation markers was reduced. Moreover, the expression of the gene sets for β‐cell differentiation and the levels of insulin and C‐peptide secreted by insulin precursor cells were notably reduced in β‐cells differentiated from Jazf1‐KO iPSC compared with those differentiated from WT iPSC. A comparison of Jazf1+/− and WT mice showed that Jazf1+/− mice had lower levels of serum insulin, pancreatic insulin expression, and decreased pancreatic β‐cell size, which resulted in defects in the glucose homeostasis. These findings suggest that Jazf1 plays a pivotal role in the differentiation of β‐cells and glucose homeostasis.
Deltex positively regulates Toll signaling in a JNK independent manner in Drosophila
Authors: Sharma Vartika , Mutsuddi Mousumi , Mukherjee Ashim
Published: February 2021

Toll pathway is the center for the function of immune system in both Drosophila and mammals. Toll pathway in Drosophila gets activated upon binding of the ligand Spätzle to the receptor, Toll, triggering a series of proteolytic cascade culminating into the activation of the NF‐κB factors Dorsal and/or Dif (Dorsal‐related immunity factor). Inappropriate activation of the Toll pathway is often associated with systemic inflammation phenotype in the absence of infection, and thus, it is important to understand the regulation of Toll signaling. Deltex (Dx) is a context‐dependent regulator of Notch signaling and has been linked with cell‐mediated immunity in the mammalian system lately. However, the unambiguous role of Dx in humoral and cell‐mediated immunity is yet to be explored. Our study unravels the novel role of Dx in Toll pathway activation. Gain of function of dx in Drosophila larvae results in increased melanotic mass formation and increased lamellocyte production. Our results also reveal the nuclear accumulation of transcription factors Dorsal and Dif and expression of Toll‐associated antimicrobial peptides (AMP) in Dx over‐expression background. Further, we also tried to elucidate the role of Dx in JNK‐independent Toll activation. Here we present Dx as a novel candidate in the regulation of Toll pathway.
Long‐term joint outcomes of regular low‐dose prophylaxis in Chinese children with severe haemophilia A
Authors: Wu Yuefang , Lu Jingjing , Zhou Yin , Li Kuixing , Liu Ying , Liu Shufen , Li Zhuo , zhao Yongqiang , Poon Man‐Chiu , Xiao Juan
Published: February 2021

Objectives

To explore the long‐term joint outcomes of low‐dose prophylaxis in Chinese children with severe haemophilia A and to analyse their related factors.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed follow‐up data from 21 severe haemophilia A children on regular low‐dose prophylaxis for 6–10 years. We used International Prophylaxis Study Group magnetic resonance imaging score (IPSG MRI score), Hemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS), number of target joints, and Hemophilia‐Specific Quality of Life Index (Haemo‐QoL) to evaluate joint outcomes. Factors associated with these outcomes were evaluated by statistical analysis.

Results

(1) The children were 1.75 to 17 years age at prophylaxis initiation. Median prophylactic factor VIII dose was 22.9 IU/kg per week. (2) At the end of follow‐up: (a) The total IPSG MRI scores were 2–24 with 90.5% children exhibiting moderate to severe joint involvement (score 7–24); (b) The HJHS ranged 2–27, with 0–10 for 46.7% children and >10 for 53.3% children. There was a positive correlation between the MRI score and HJHS (p < .05); (c) Compared to their on‐demand treatment period before prophylaxis, target joints numbers decreased, and no child needed auxiliary devices to walk; (d) Joint outcomes were positively correlated with the age at initiation of low‐dose prophylaxis (p < .05) and negatively correlated with the treatment dose.

Conclusion

Long‐term low‐dose prophylaxis had positive effect on joint outcomes compared with on‐demand treatment. However, a certain degree of joint damage remained in all children indicating the need for improving the current strategy of low‐dose prophylaxis.
Tongue spots of Dunnock (Prunella modularis) nestlings reflect body condition but exert only conditional influence on parental allocation
Authors: Lara Carlos E. , Holtmann Benedikt , Santos Eduardo S.A. , Castaño‐Villa Gabriel J. , Nakagawa Shinichi
Published: February 2021

The nestlings of many bird species have ornaments in their mouths, yet the within‐species function of these ornaments remains relatively little studied compared with adult ornaments. Here, we describe the pattern of variation in the tongue spots of DunnockPrunella modularisnestlings and evaluate their potential influence on parental allocation. We observed that some nestlings hatch with a third tongue spot at the tip of the tongue, which then fades as nestlings age. The number of tongue spots present is inversely related to nestling weight, but the number of tongue spots present does not appear consistently to influence parental allocation. This suggests the need for further investigations into within‐species variation of mouth marks in nestling birds to pave the way to a better understanding of these intriguing ornaments.
Contrasting long‐term trends in age‐specific survival of Peregrine Falcons (Falco peregrinus) in Britain using smoothed estimates of recovery probabilities
Authors: Robinson Robert A. , Wilson Mark
Published: February 2021

Peregrine Falcons Falco peregrinus are an iconic species of long‐standing conservation concern as a result of historical patterns of persecution and dramatic pesticide‐related population declines in many populations during the second half of the 20th century. Although the role of reduced productivity in these declines is well known, the temporal patterns in survival are much less well characterized. We estimate survival probabilities for Peregrines in Britain in the period 1975–2018 from reports of ringed birds found dead, using a non‐parametric smoothing spline to account for non‐linear temporal variation in recovery probabilities. During this time the population increased from around 350 pairs to 1628 pairs. There was little evidence of a temporal trend in the survival probabilities of adult birds since the mid‐1970s, but survival of first‐year birds appears to have decreased. Our estimates suggest that increases in the breeding population are further limited by unreported sources of mortality or by density‐dependent processes, highlighting the need for better data on immature survival and recruitment. Modelling recovery rates using a spline, rather than independent annual values, improved estimation efficiency with lower credible intervals obtained for the adult annual estimates.
Consumer confidence and conspicuous consumption: A conservation of resources perspective
Authors: Hampson Daniel Peter , Ma Shuang (Sara) , Wang Yonggui , Han Myat Su
Published: February 2021

As the global economy faces major contraction, speculation abounds that conspicuously branded products will be especially vulnerable. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between consumer confidence and conspicuous consumption. Drawing on the conservation of resources theory, we develop a theoretical model, which we test with data from a sample of Brazilian consumers (n = 1,043), using structural equation modeling and moderated mediation analysis. Results reveal that financial insecurity, need for status and anticipated luxury guilt each positively mediate the consumer confidence‐conspicuous consumption relationship. The effects of consumer confidence on conspicuous consumption via financial insecurity and anticipated luxury guilt are strongest for the highest socioeconomic status consumers.
Simvastatin in vitiligo: an update with recent review of the literature
Authors: Hasan Rashidul , Agarwal Komal , Podder Indrashis , Misitzis Angelica , Schwartz Robert A. , Wollina Uwe , Lotti Torello , Grabbe Stephan , Goldust Mohamad
Published: February 2021

Patients with vitiligo often seek medical attention, as it diminishes their quality of life resulting in significant morbidity. Several topical and systemic therapies are in vogue targeting the immunological aspect of this disease, but results are often unsatisfactory, and complete cure remains elusive. Recently, simvastatin, a 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylyglutaryl‐coenzyme A (HMG‐CoA) reductase inhibitor, is being evaluated for vitiligo management because of its multimodal action, easy availability, and low cost. The proposed multimodal actions range from anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, to immunomodulatory properties which may be of therapeutic benefit in vitiligo patients. The authors intend to evaluate the role of simvastatin as a novel therapeutic agent for vitiligo along with relevant review of literature.
Risk factors for outbreaks of COVID‐19 in care homes following hospital discharge: A national cohort analysis
Authors: Emmerson Chris , Adamson James P. , Turner Drew , Gravenor Mike B. , Salmon Jane , Cottrell Simon , Middleton Victoria , Thomas Buffy , Mason Brendan W. , Williams Chris J.
Published: February 2021

Background

The population of adult residential care homes has been shown to have high morbidity and mortality in relation to COVID‐19.

Methods

We examined 3115 hospital discharges to a national cohort of 1068 adult care homes and subsequent outbreaks of COVID‐19 occurring between 22 February and 27 June 2020. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess the impact of time‐dependent exposure to hospital discharge on incidence of the first known outbreak, over a window of 7‐21 days after discharge, and adjusted for care home characteristics, including size and type of provision.

Results

A total of 330 homes experienced an outbreak, and 544 homes received a discharge over the study period. Exposure to hospital discharge was not associated with a significant increase in the risk of a new outbreak (hazard ratio 1.15, 95% CI 0.89, 1.47, P = .29) after adjusting for care home characteristics. Care home size was the most significant predictor. Hazard ratios (95% CI) in comparison with homes of <10 residents were as follows: 3.40 (1.99, 5.80) for 10‐24 residents; 8.25 (4.93, 13.81) for 25‐49 residents; and 17.35 (9.65, 31.19) for 50+ residents. When stratified for care home size, the outbreak rates were similar for periods when homes were exposed to a hospital discharge, in comparison with periods when homes were unexposed.

Conclusion

Our analyses showed that large homes were at considerably greater risk of outbreaks throughout the epidemic, and after adjusting for care home size, a discharge from hospital was not associated with a significant increase in risk.
Significant presence of biofilm‐producing gut‐derived bacteria in anal fistula of chronic duration
Authors: Jaiswal Prakhar , Sharma Swati , Pratap Arvind , Ansari Mumtaz , Shukla Vijay K , Basu Somprakas , Banerjee Tuhina
Published: February 2021

Fistula‐in‐ano though not a life‐threatening condition, yet its symptoms often significantly impact patients' social, intimate, and work lives. There is an established role of bacterial microflora in acute infections. However, we proposed that biofilm‐forming organisms might be present in the microflora of anal fistula of prolonged duration. This aspect has rarely been studied earlier. Therefore, the study describes the microbiology of anal fistula and the biofilm‐forming capacity of the isolated organisms. A total of 30 patients were included in the study as per the criteria. Anal fistula tissue sample, tissue fluid, and blood samples were collected from each individual. The collected specimens were detected for the presence of aerobic and anaerobic microflora through standard microbiological method and polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, the role of biofilm formation by microtitre plate assay and serum matrix metalloproteinases‐9 was also studied. The result showed significant predominance of gut‐derived microflora with high‐to‐moderate biofilm‐producing ability in anal fistulas of prolonged duration. The study emphasises the presence of biofilm‐forming bacteria in chronic, non‐healing fistula.
Undertaking a scoping review: A practical guide for nursing and midwifery students, clinicians, researchers, and academics
Authors: Pollock Danielle , Davies Ellen L. , Peters Micah D. J. , Tricco Andrea C. , Alexander Lyndsay , McInerney Patricia , Godfrey Christina M. , Khalil Hanan , Munn Zachary
Published: February 2021

Aim

The aim of this study is to discuss the available methodological resources and best‐practice guidelines for the development and completion of scoping reviews relevant to nursing and midwifery policy, practice, and research.

Design

Discussion Paper.

Data Sources

Scoping reviews that exemplify best practice are explored with reference to the recently updated JBI scoping review guide (2020) and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses Scoping Review extension (PRISMA‐ScR).

Implications for nursing and midwifery

Scoping reviews are an increasingly common form of evidence synthesis. They are used to address broad research questions and to map evidence from a variety of sources. Scoping reviews are a useful form of evidence synthesis for those in nursing and midwifery and present opportunities for researchers to review a broad array of evidence and resources. However, scoping reviews still need to be conducted with rigour and transparency.

Conclusion

This study provides guidance and advice for researchers and clinicians who are preparing to undertake an evidence synthesis and are considering a scoping review methodology in the field of nursing and midwifery.

Impact

With the increasing popularity of scoping reviews, criticism of the rigour, transparency, and appropriateness of the methodology have been raised across multiple academic and clinical disciplines, including nursing and midwifery. This discussion paper provides a unique contribution by discussing each component of a scoping review, including: developing research questions and objectives; protocol development; developing eligibility criteria and the planned search approach; searching and selecting the evidence; extracting and analysing evidence; presenting results; and summarizing the evidence specifically for the fields of nursing and midwifery. Considerations for when to select this methodology and how to prepare a review for publication are also discussed. This approach is applied to the disciplines of nursing and midwifery to assist nursing and/or midwifery students, clinicians, researchers, and academics.
Trajectory of smoking behaviour during the first 6 months after diagnosis of lung cancer: A study from Taiwan
Authors: Yang Chia‐Chen , Liu Chien‐Ying , Wang Kwua‐Yun , Chang Yun‐Kuang , Wen Fur‐Hsing , Lee Yu‐Chin , Chen Mei‐Ling
Published: February 2021

Aims

To identify different classes of change pattern/ trajectory of tobacco smoking behaviour after diagnosis of lung cancer using multi‐wave data and to explore factors associated with the class membership.

Design

This is a multi‐wave observational study.

Methods

Smoking behaviour data were collected at diagnosis and then every month for 6 months from 133 newly diagnosed people with lung cancer who had recently quit smoking or continued to smoke at diagnosis. These patients were recruited from three medical centres and data were collected from May 2014 to January 2017. Smoking behaviour was assessed based on patients’ self‐reports on whether they smoked during the last month (yes/no) for a total of seven times. Mixture latent Markov model and logistic regression were used to analyse data.

Results

Two latent classes of smoking trajectory were identified among recent quitters or current smokers of people with lung cancer, namely “perseverance for abstinence” and “indecisive for abstinence.” Patients who were younger age (OR = 0.95, p = 0.026), exposure to second‐hand smoke (OR = 3.35, p = 0.012) and lower self‐efficacy for not smoking (OR = 0.96, p = 0.011) were more likely to belong to the class of “indecisive for abstinence.”

Conclusions

Heterogeneous classes of smoking trajectory existed in newly diagnosed people with lung cancer. The risk factors associated with a less favourable smoking trajectory can be incorporated into tailored smoking‐cessation programs for patients newly diagnosed with lung cancer.

Impact

The dynamic trajectory of smoking behaviour had not been adequately explored among newly diagnosed people with lung cancer. Two classes of smoking trajectory and the predictors associated with the class membership were identified. These findings suggest that the diagnosis of cancer is a teachable moment for smoking cessation. Patients with younger age, lower self‐efficacy of not smoking and exposure to second‐hand smoke at home need special attention.
Non‐muscle myosin II regulates aortic stiffness through effects on specific focal adhesion proteins and the non‐muscle cortical cytoskeleton
Authors: Singh Kuldeep , Kim Anne B. , Morgan Kathleen G.
Published: February 2021

Non‐muscle myosin II (NMII) plays a role in many fundamental cellular processes including cell adhesion, migration, and cytokinesis. However, its role in mammalian vascular function is not well understood. Here, we investigated the function of NMII in the biomechanical and signalling properties of mouse aorta. We found that blebbistatin, an inhibitor of NMII, decreases agonist‐induced aortic stress and stiffness in a dose‐dependent manner. We also specifically demonstrate that in freshly isolated, contractile, aortic smooth muscle cells, the non‐muscle myosin IIA (NMIIA) isoform is associated with contractile filaments in the core of the cell as well as those in the non‐muscle cell cortex. However, the non‐muscle myosin IIB (NMIIB) isoform is excluded from the cell cortex and colocalizes only with contractile filaments. Furthermore, both siRNA knockdown of NMIIA and NMIIB isoforms in the differentiated A7r5 smooth muscle cell line and blebbistatin‐mediated inhibition of NM myosin II suppress agonist‐activated increases in phosphorylation of the focal adhesion proteins FAK Y925 and paxillin Y118. Thus, we show in the present study, for the first time that NMII regulates aortic stiffness and stress and that this regulation is mediated through the tension‐dependent phosphorylation of the focal adhesion proteins FAK and paxillin.
Prognostic role of c‐Jun activation domain‐binding protein‐1 in cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Shi Deyao , Mu Shidai , Hu Binwu , Zhang Shuo , Liu Jianxiang , Zhang Zhicai , Shao Zengwu
Published: February 2021

c‐Jun activation domain‐binding protein‐1 (Jab1) is aberrantly overexpressed in multiple cancers and plays an oncogenic role in cancer progression. We examined the association between Jab1 expression and prognosis in patients with cancer by conducting a meta‐analysis. A comprehensive search strategy was performed using the PubMed, Web of Science, Ovid and EMBASE in July 2020. Eligible studies were enrolled according to definite criteria. Twenty‐seven studies involving 2609 patients were enrolled in this meta‐analysis. A significant association between high Jab1 expression and poor overall survival (pooled hazard ratio [HR] 2.344, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.037‐2.696) was observed. Subgroup analyses of the type of cancer, sample size, follow‐up period, Jab1 detection method and preoperative treatment did not alter the significance. On pooling data from Cox multivariate analyses, high Jab1 expression was found to be an independent prognostic indicator for overall survival. In addition, high Jab1 expression was found to be associated with advanced clinicopathological features such as clinical stage, lymphatic metastasis, histological grade and distant metastasis in cancers. Our meta‐analysis is the first to demonstrate that high Jab1 expression may be a promising indicator of poor prognosis and has an independent prognostic value for overall survival in patients with cancer.
Regenerative periodontal surgery and orthodontic tooth movement in stage IV periodontitis: A retrospective practice‐based cohort study
Authors: Tietmann Christina , Bröseler Frank , Axelrad Tamar , Jepsen Karin , Jepsen Søren
Published: February 2021

Aim

Evaluation of the effectiveness of regenerative treatment of intra‐bony defects in combination with consecutive orthodontic tooth movements in stage IV periodontitis.

Material and methods

A total of 526 intra‐bony defects in 48 patients were analysed after regenerative therapy using collagen‐deproteinized bovine bone mineral with or without collagen membrane or enamel matrix derivative followed by orthodontic tooth movement initiated 3 months after surgery. Changes in radiographic bone levels (BL) and probing pocket depths (PPD) were evaluated after 1 year and up to 4 years.

Results

Tooth loss amounted to 0.57%. Mean BL gain was 4.67 mm (±2.5 mm) after 1 year and 4.85 mm (±2.55 mm) after up to 4 years. Mean PPD was significantly reduced from 6.00 mm (±2.09 mm) at baseline to 3.45 mm (±1.2 mm) after 1 year, and to 3.12 mm (±1.36 mm) after 2–4 years. Pocket closure (PPD ≤4 mm) was accomplished in 87% of all defects. Adjunctive antibiotic therapy did not show any statistically significant impact on treatment outcomes.

Conclusions

Within the limits of this retrospective study design, the findings suggest that the combination of regenerative treatment and consecutive orthodontic tooth movements resulted in favourable results up to 4 years.
Practitioner Review: Parenting interventions for child conduct problems: reconceptualising resistance to change
Authors: Hawes David J. , Dadds Mark R.
Published: February 2021

Parenting interventions based on social learning theory have received extensive empirical support in the treatment of child conduct problems; yet, they fail to produce lasting gains in as many as a third of cases. Perspectives on these poor outcomes have been informed by numerous lines of research, and practitioner recommendations for improving such outcomes have often emphasized processes related to clinical engagement. In this Practitioner Review, we examine recent theory and evidence pertaining to these processes, including emerging research into the therapeutic relationship across face‐to‐face and eHealth treatment modalities, and the clinical engagement of both mothers and fathers. The concept of resistance to change is examined in light of these developments, and it is argued that the process of overcoming such resistance can be characterized as one of reflective practice. A novel process model based on this perspective is presented, comprising practical clinical strategies that are designed to be initiated from the earliest contacts with a family and build on one another across treatment.
Early diagnosis of familial melanoma: challenging but feasible
Authors: Lallas A.
Published: February 2021

Linked article: C. Longo et al. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2021; 35: 403–410. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.16679.
Seasonal abundance of Tuberolachnus salignus and its effect on flowering of host willows of varying susceptibility
Authors: Tun Kyaw Min , Clavijo McCormick Andrea , Jones Trevor , Minor Maria
Published: February 2021

The giant willow aphid Tuberolachnus salignus Gmelin is a large phloem‐feeding insect which colonizes the stems of willow trees. This aphid is a new invasive species in New Zealand and there is limited knowledge of its inter‐annual population patterns and the damage it can cause to willow hosts. Our study investigated the T. salignus population dynamics and its effects on the flowering parameters of fifteen willow species and hybrids in a field trial. The aphid population levels were found to vary among the willow species and hybrids. Based on the aphid population levels, the willow species and hybrids were classified as resistant, moderately resistant, susceptible or highly susceptible. T. salignus infestation had no effect on the flowering of resistant and moderately resistant willows, but significantly delayed the flowering time, extended the flowering duration, and decreased the catkin length in susceptible species and hybrids. Interestingly, aphid infestation was found to increase the catkin number and total floral output of some willow species and hybrids. It can be concluded that aphid populations and their effects on flowering are host‐specific, with large differences between resistant and susceptible host plants.
A comparative analysis of the relationship between flood experience and private flood mitigation behaviour in the regions of England
Authors: Barendrecht Marlies H. , McCarthy Simon , Viglione Alberto
Published: February 2021

There has been a move towards a more integrated approach to flood risk management, which includes a stronger focus on property level measures. However, in England the uptake of these measures remains low. Flood experience has been found to influence preparedness (i.e., the uptake of measures), but even experience does not always result in an increase in preparedness. We investigate the variations in the relationship between experience and preparedness for the regions of England as defined by the Environment Agency. Analysis of survey data collected by the Environment Agency among the at risk population between 1997 and 2004 was undertaken to determine the differences between the seven regions. We find that in the South West, Southern and Anglian regions increases in preparedness with increasing experience are higher compared to other regions. In the Thames, Midlands and North West regions the preparedness increases less with increasing experience. We explore the influence of other factors influencing flood mitigation behaviour that have been previously found in the literature and find that the differences between regions are correlated with the severity of experienced flooding and whether English is the first language of the respondents.
Beyond W.E.I.R.D. (Western, educated, industrial, rich, democratic)‐centric theories and perspectives: masculinity and fathering in Chinese societies
Authors: Li Xuan , Hu Yang , Huang Ching‐Yu Soar , Chuang Susan S.
Published: February 2021

Fatherhood scholarship has made much theoretical progress over the past decades, yet existing models and concepts continue to draw primarily on western, educated, industrialized, rich, and democratic (WEIRD)‐centric assumptions. This review uses demographically sizeable, culturally significant, yet understudied and undertheorized Chinese fathers as an example to reveal the limitations of applying WEIRD‐centric perspectives when studying fathering and fatherhood. Specifically, existing models and concepts of fathering and fatherhood, with an emphasis on father involvement, especially in rough‐and‐tumble play, are predicated on the assumptions of nuclear family and western hegemonic masculinity. The Chinese cultural tradition, in contrast, endorses a literatus masculinity and emphasizes the family lineage, thereby encouraging fathers' educational involvement and inviting grandparental care. These cultural traditions intersect with unfolding social developments in contemporary Chinese societies to shape fathering ideals and practices. A full, routine inclusion of non‐WEIRD fathers, such as Chinese fathers, promises to benefit the scholarship on fathering and fatherhood as a whole.
Slack and Cyclically Sensitive Inflation
Authors: STOCK JAMES H. , WATSON MARK W.
Published: February 2021

We investigate the flattening Phillips relation by making two departures from standard specifications. First, we measure slack using real activity variables that are bandpass filtered or year‐over‐year changes in activity (these are similar), instead of gaps. Second, we study the components of inflation instead of the standard aggregates. We find that some inflation components have strong and stable correlations with the cyclical component of real activity; these components tend to be relatively well‐measured and domestically determined. Other components, typically prices that are poorly measured or internationally determined, have weak and/or unstable correlations with cyclical activity. We construct a new inflation index, cyclically sensitive inflation, that weights the components by their joint cyclical covariation with real activity. The index has strong and stable correlations with cyclical activity and provides a real‐time measure of cyclical movements in inflation.
Agrifood field analysis and sociocultural brokerage. Mexico and the United States: 1950–2016
Authors: Calleja Margarita , González Humberto
Published: February 2021

In this work, we propose the heuristic and explicative possibilities of agrifood fields analysis (AFFA) for the historical study of capitalism in agriculture and food. This approach considers the agroclimatic conditions of the territories and the sociocultural plurality of the actors who inhabit them. This phenomenological and eco‐territorial approach allows to study, on many scales, the networks of social relations in which actors take part who are competing for the benefits that are created by human labor applied to producing certain foods and making them accessible to consumers. To show the value of the AFFA, we present a historical study of the agrifood field that was developed from the production of fresh fruits and vegetables in the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas and several regions of Mexico for the market in the United States and Canada. The concept of sociocultural brokerage allowed us to take into account the social and cultural plurality in the AFFA and the role played by the creativity and skills of the actors in managing the resources of knowledge, society, technology, and capital at their disposal. This way we were able to explain the dynamics of power and the changes in agrifood governance in the field.
Borrowing channels, purposes, and household investment and consumption: evidence from Nepal
Authors: Kondratjeva Olga
Published: February 2021

Despite the expansion of the formal financial sector in recent decades, informal credit continues to play an important role in the financial lives of households in low‐income countries. Using panel data from nationally representative household surveys conducted in Nepal in 2003/04 and 2010/11, this paper investigates how borrowing from different channels (formal and informal) and for different purposes (production and consumption) is associated with household investment and consumption expenditure. Findings from a fixed effects regression analysis indicate that formal and informal loans are used to finance different spending needs, and intended credit purposes tend to reflect actual spending of borrowed funds. The level of household investment or consumption spending depends on the interaction between borrowing channels and purposes. This study can inform the efforts to improve household access to affordable and reliable financial services.
The effect of high‐intensity focused electromagnetic procedure on visceral adipose tissue: Retrospective assessment of computed tomography scans
Authors: Kent David E. , Kinney Brian M.
Published: February 2021

Background

High levels of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) are associated with abdominal obesity and increased risk of metabolic deterioration. Recent studies showed that intensive physical exercise results in the reduction of subcutaneous and visceral fat.

Aims

This study investigates the effect of supramaximal muscle contractions induced by a HIFEM procedure for abdominal VAT changes.

Methods

Computed tomography (CT) scans of 22 subjects (47.3 ± 8.4 years, BMI of 23.5 ± 3.5 kg/m2) who received 8 HIFEM treatments of the abdomen (2‐3 days apart) were retrospectively evaluated for the changes in VAT. The CT scans were obtained at baseline and 1 month after the last treatment. The transverse slices at umbilical, infraumbilical, and supraumbilical levels were used to determine the cross‐sectional area (CSA) of VAT through a semi‐automated segmentation method.

Results

Analysis of the CSA revealed a significant (P = .004) and uniform reduction of the abdominal VAT area by 14.3% (−16.7 cm2) from 110.6 ± 69.0 cm2 to 93.9 ± 54.6 cm2. In general, a higher relative improvement was seen infraumbilically (17.1%), followed by supraumbilical (15.5%) and umbilical (10.7%) levels. The reduction of VAT was strongly correlated to the reduction of subcutaneous fat (r(17) = 0.66; P = .002). A decrease in VAT volume contributed to the overall aesthetic enhancement visible on digital photographs.

Conclusions

The outcomes indicate that HIFEM technology has a positive effect on VAT. However, further studies are necessary to validate these outcomes and to clarify the exact mechanism of a VAT reduction. Based on our results, the HIFEM procedure may be a beneficial treatment option for patients with high VAT deposits.
Treatment of periorbital and perioral wrinkles with fractional Er:YAG laser: What are the effects of age, smoking, and Glogau stage?
Authors: Özkoca Defne , Aşkın Özge , Engin Burhan
Published: February 2021

Background

Dynamic and static wrinkling are observed on the facial skin as a result of aging. Previously, it was showed that fractional Er:YAG laser was effective in the treatment of facial wrinkles.

Aims

The aims of this study are to determine the effects of age, Glogau stage, and smoking status on the treatment efficacy of fractional Er:YAG laser; and to compare the success of laser treatment on periorbital wrinkles with perioral wrinkles.

Material/Method

Periorbital and perioral wrinkles of the same patient were treated with fractional Er:YAG laser (2940 nm) for 4 sessions with monthly intervals. Treatment parameters were affluence of 1.5J, a spot size of 7 mm, and a frequency of 5 Hz. Treatment efficacy was evaluated by a blinded physician evaluation scale and patient satisfaction scale 2 months after the final treatment session.

Results

Fifteen patients completed the study. The mean age of the patients was 42.8 years. The blinded physician evaluation of the improvement in the periorbital wrinkles decreased (P =.034) and the patient satisfaction in perioral wrinkles decreased (P =.049) with increasing age. The relationship between smoking and patient satisfaction in the treatment of periorbital wrinkles was also statistically significant (P =.014). No difference in terms of treatment efficacy was found between periorbital and perioral regions.

Conclusion

Fractional Er:YAG laser (2940 nm) is equally successful in the treatment of periorbital and perioral wrinkles. The treatment success decreases with smoking and increasing age.
Interventions to support autonomy, competence, and relatedness needs in organizations: A systematic review with recommendations for research and practice
Authors: Slemp Gavin R. , Lee Mark A. , Mossman Lara H.
Published: February 2021

Organizational research underpinned by self‐determination theory (SDT) has grown substantially over the past decade. However, the effectiveness of interventions designed to promote support for basic psychological needs in organizations remains ill documented. We thus report the results of a qualitative systematic review and synthesis of SDT‐informed studies of interventions to cultivate autonomy, competence, and relatedness needs, and in turn, autonomous motivation in organizational contexts. Studies were included in the review if they evaluated the effect of interventions to develop autonomy‐, competence‐, or relatedness‐supportive work climates or leader behaviours. A systematic search yielded ten eligible field studies for inclusion: three randomized‐controlled trials and seven non‐randomized intervention studies (combined N = 2,337). Seven studies yielded mostly favourable effects, two yielded mixed effects, and one study showed no evidence of change post‐intervention. Substantial heterogeneity in intervention format and delivery existed across studies. Studies pointed towards possible moderators of effectiveness. Interventions were more effective at spawning change at the proximal (leader) level than at the distal (subordinate) level, though few studies tracked employees over time to comprehensively evaluate long‐term transfer. Bias assessments showed that risk of bias was moderate or high across studies. We discuss overall implications of the review and suggest several recommendations for future intervention research and practice.

Practitioner points

Interventions to help leaders to support subordinates' basic psychological needs are effective in creating change in leader behaviour.

Intervention effects for subordinate outcomes are smaller and may take time to materialize.

Interventions tend to be more effective if they are aligned with organizational strategic needs, proactively consider unique work contexts, are endorsed by senior levels of management, and give preference to pedagogy that aligns with basic needs.
Lip‐closing pressure during food intake from a spoon in normal children
Authors: Sasakawa Yuki , Nakamura Yuki , Saitoh Issei , Nakajima Tsutomu , Tsukuno Saeko , Hozawa Mio , Sotome Tetsuya , Nogami Yukiko , Kurosawa Mie , Iwase Yoko , Hayashi Toyohiko , Hayasaki Haruaki
Published: February 2021

Background

Understanding the refinement of self‐feeding skills is useful for the assessment of oral functional development in children.

Objectives

To determine normative data on lip closing during food intake in the development of independent spoon‐feeding in normal children, we tested the hypothesis that lip‐closing pressure and spoon operation differ depending on food type.

Methods

Fifteen normal children (eight boys, seven girls; mean age: 6.5 years) were asked to eat test foods (2, 3 and 5 g of yogurt and cream cheese) freely with a spoon. Lip‐closing pressures and kinematic data on spoon operation were recorded simultaneously with a strain gauge transducer embedded in the spoon and Vicon motion analysis, respectively.

Results

In the most common lip‐pressure pattern, only positive pressure was generated. In the second most common pattern, negative pressure occurred first, followed by positive pressure; this pattern was seen infrequently. Positive pressure (P < .001), pressure duration (P < .001) and spoon intra‐oral time (P < .05) during intake of cream cheese (an adhesive food) were significantly greater than those during intake of yogurt (a non‐adhesive food). Pressure onset occurred at the beginning of the spoon withdrawal period or at the turning point from spoon insertion to withdrawal, depending on the food.

Conclusions

Lip‐closing force and spoon operation varied depending on food type in preschool and early elementary school children. Our findings suggest the need to consider the importance of food diversity and to pay attention to the spoon withdrawal period when assessing the development and maturation of lip function.
Neonatal Golden Hour: A survey of Australian and New Zealand Neonatal Network units' early stabilisation practices for very preterm infants
Authors: Hodgson Kate A , Owen Louise S , Lui Kei , Shah Vibhuti
Published: February 2021

Aim

To identify current ‘Golden Hour’ practices for initial stabilisation of very preterm infants <32 weeks' gestational age (GA) within tertiary neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in the Australian and New Zealand Neonatal Network (ANZNN).

Methods

A 76‐question survey regarding delivery room (DR) and NICU stabilisation practices was distributed electronically to directors of tertiary perinatal NICUs in the ANZNN in January 2019. Responses were categorised into GA subgroups: 23–24, 25–27 and 28–31 weeks' GA.

Results

The response rate was 100% (24/24 units). Delayed cord clamping (DCC) was practised ‘always’ or ‘often’ by 21 units (88%). All units used oximetry to target oxygen saturations, and 23/24 (96%) commenced resuscitation in <40% oxygen.

Ten units (42%) routinely used DR electrocardiography monitoring. CPAP was preferred as primary respiratory support in one‐third of units for infants born 23–24 weeks' GA, compared with 19 units (79%) at 25–27 weeks' GA and 23 units (96%) at 28–31 weeks' GA. DR skin‐to‐skin care was uncommon, particularly at lower GAs. Five units (21%) used minimally invasive surfactant therapy for non‐intubated infants at 23–24 weeks' GA, 13 units (54%) at 25–27 weeks' GA and 16 units (67%) at 28–31 weeks' GA.

Conclusions

Most Golden Hour stabilisation practices align with international guidelines. Consistency exists with respect to DCC, oxygen saturation targeting and primary CPAP use for infants 25 weeks' GA and above. Where evidence is less certain, practices vary across ANZNN NICUs. Time targets for stabilisation measures may help standardise practice for this population.
Impact of continuous positive airway pressure mode on adherence to treatment in obstructive sleep apnea patients awaiting bariatric surgery
Authors: Kermelly Sophie B. , Lajoie Annie C. , Boucher Marie‐Eve , Sériès Frédéric
Published: February 2021

Obstructive sleep apnea is prevalent in the bariatric population, and is associated with various complications. Despite increasing popularity, automatic positive airway pressure has not yet been studied in this population. The objective was to compare treatment adherence between automatic positive airway pressure and fixed positive airway pressure (continuous positive airway pressure) in obstructive sleep apnea patients awaiting bariatric surgery. This randomized controlled trial involved obese patients newly diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea and awaiting bariatric surgery. The primary outcome was the difference in adherence between automatic positive airway pressure and continuous positive airway pressure pre‐operatively. Secondary outcomes included positive airway pressure efficacy, adherence at 1 month, adverse effects, quality of life and peri‐operative complications. Analyses were conducted using a modified intention‐to‐treat methodology. Fifty patients were randomized. Baseline characteristics and duration of positive airway pressure therapy were comparable between groups. At the time of surgery, the percentage of overall nights positive airway pressure used was 96.9% [95% confidence interval: 93.5–100] and 86.0% [95% confidence interval: 66.9–100] in the automatic positive airway pressure and continuous positive airway pressure groups, respectively (p = .047). Average use was 6.3 hr per night [95% confidence interval: 5.1–7.2] and 5.9 hr per night [95% confidence interval: 3.0–8.8], with a difference of 0.4 hr favouring automatic positive airway pressure (p = .75). Nightly use ≥ 4 hr per night was 86.4% and 74.0% in the automatic positive airway pressure and fixed continuous positive airway pressure groups, respectively (p = .22). There were no statistically significant differences regarding adherence at 1 month, efficacy parameters, adverse effects, quality of life and peri‐operative complications. With no difference on the safety profile and efficiency parameters, treatment adherence is not improved with automatic positive airway pressure compared with fixed continuous positive airway pressure in obstructive sleep apnea patients awaiting bariatric surgery.