bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Animal feed contains diverse populations of Salmonella
Authors: Shariat Nikki W. , Larsen Bryan R. , Schaeffer Chery , Richardson Kurt E.
Published: March 2022

Aims

In food animals, Salmonella can exist as multiserovar populations, and the goal of this study was to determine whether Salmonella-positive animal feed samples also consist of multiserovar populations.

Methods and Results

In all, 50 Salmonella-positive samples, collected from 10 countries, were cultured using three different media for Salmonella isolation: universal pre-enrichment broth, Rappaport-Vassiliadis (RV) broth and tetrathionate (TT) broth. The samples included 25 samples from feed ingredients, 13 from complete feed and 12 feed mill dust samples. Samples from pelleted overnight cultures were analysed by CRISPR-SeroSeq to examine serovar populations in individual samples. Serovars Anatum and Mbandaka were the most commonly identified and were found in feed, feed ingredients and feed environments. Serovars commonly associated with human illness were also identified, and included serovars Enteritidis, Typhimurium and Infantis. Overall, we detected 12 different serogroups (37 different serovars), with eight serovars belonging to the O:7 serogroup (C1). Over half (56%) of the samples contained two or more serovars, with 11 serovars found in one sample. Feed ingredients exhibited higher serovar diversity, with an average of three serovars. Across paired samples of pre-enriched and enriched populations, the Bray–Curtis dissimilarity metric showed that 83% of serovar populations were a strong match.

Conclusions

The data presented show that serovars belonging to the O:7 serogroup are commonly found in feed, and that feed can contain multiple serovars. The serovar populations across different Salmonella media were largely concordant.

Significance and Impact of Study

The presence of Salmonella in animal feed is considered a transmission route into meat and poultry products and this study demonstrates that animal feed can contain multiple Salmonella serovars.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus contamination of high-touched surfaces in a university campus
Authors: Ababneh Qutaiba , Jaradat Ziad , Khanfar Malak , Alnohoud Rahaf , Alzu'bi Mallak , Makahleh Sara , Abulaila Sally
Published: March 2022

Aim

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus (MRSA) is a public and occupational health concern, both in community and healthcare settings. In recent years, community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) has emerged as a major causative agent of infections in individuals with no health care exposure or any of the classical risk factors associated with infections. Environmental surfaces frequently touched by hands play a role in the transmission of CA-MRSA, where inanimate objects are considered potential reservoirs and the source of MRSA infections. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of MRSA on environmental surfaces inside a university campus.

Methods and Results

A total of 1078 high-touch surface samples were collected from door handles, light switches, desks, keyboards and restroom surfaces. MRSA isolates were identified and confirmed by PCR, utilizing the Staph. aureus nuc and mecA genes. Antibiotic resistance profiles were determined using disc diffusion and minimum inhibitory concertation methods. In addition, the ability to form biofilms was investigated by the 96-well plate microdilution technique. PCR assays were performed to detect enterotoxin and antibiotic-resistant genes. The genetic diversity of MRSA was determined through multi-locus sequence typing (MLST), spa and agr typing methods. The overall contamination of Staph. aureus and MRSA was 14.6% (157/1078) and 2.8% (30/1078), respectively. The highest rate of MRSA contamination was detected in restroom sinks and door handles. All MRSA isolates were MDR, with the highest resistance observed was against trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Most MRSA isolates (29/30, 97%) carried at least one gene encoding for staphylococcal enterotoxins (SE), with 10 different SE genotypes were observed. A total of 16 different spa types were detected among the 30 MRSA isolates. Multi-locus sequence typing revealed that 21 MRSA isolates belonged to eight known sequence types (ST), while nine isolates were novel strains. The most detected ST and spa types were ST22 and t223, respectively. Agr types I and III were represented in 28 out of the 30 isolates. The majority of the isolates carried SCCmec type IV, but only one isolate was positive for PVL.

Conclusions

Our findings signify the potential of the high-touch surfaces in harbouring and transmitting MRSA to campus staff and students. Thus, the implementation of effective prevention measures outside the healthcare setting is needed to reduce the risk of acquiring CA-MRSA infections.

Significance and Impact

MRSA infections impose a profound economic burden due to illness and productivity loss. The results of this study not only help us to better understand the environmental reservoirs of this pathogen, but also provide information about its transmission pathways and healthcare settings entry routs.
Long‐term efficacy and safety of brodalumab in moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis: a post hoc pooled analysis of AMAGINE‐2 and ‐3
Authors: Reich K. , Iversen L. , Puig L. , Lambert J. , Mrowietz U. , Kaplan Saday K. , Warren R.B.
Published: March 2022

Background

Brodalumab is a monoclonal antibody that blocks multiple interleukin (IL)‐17 family cytokines by binding to the shared A subunit of the IL‐17 receptor. In Phase 3 trials, brodalumab provided high levels of skin clearance through 52 weeks in patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis and was generally well tolerated.

Objectives

To assess efficacy response rates and safety outcomes through 120 weeks for patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis who received brodalumab.

Methods

Safety and efficacy data were pooled for patients from AMAGINE‐2 and −3 who received continuous brodalumab 210 mg every 2 weeks, or brodalumab 210 mg every 2 weeks after receiving either brodalumab 140 mg or placebo through Week 12. Efficacy data are presented using observed data, non‐responder imputation (NRI) and a combination of NRI and missing at random assumption to account for missing data. Absolute PASI scores are presented using mixed‐effect model repeated measure modelling and multiple imputation.

Results

Based on observed data at Week 120, 86% of the continuous brodalumab 210 mg group achieved PASI 90 and 74% achieved PASI 100. At Week 12, 58% of this group achieved absolute PASI ≤1; this proportion increased to approximately 80% at Week 52 and persisted through Week 120. Among patients receiving continuous brodalumab 210 mg, median duration of brodalumab exposure was 747 days and the overall exposure‐adjusted event rate of treatment emergent adverse events per 100 patient‐years was 329. Safety through 120 weeks was comparable to the results of the primary AMAGINE‐2 and −3 studies. Patients who switched to brodalumab 210 mg after receiving either brodalumab 140 mg or placebo through Week 12 showed similar skin clearance and safety profiles.

Conclusions

Brodalumab treatment was well tolerated and resulted in high levels of skin clearance that were rapidly achieved and maintained through Week 120, supporting its long‐term efficacy and safety profile.
Influence of manufacturing technique on the color of zirconia restorations: Monolithic versus layered crowns
Authors: Manziuc Manuela Maria , Gasparik Cristina , Burde Alexandru Victor , Ruiz‐López Javier , Buduru Smaranda , Dudea Diana
Published: March 2022

Objectives

The study aimed to compare the color of monolithic and layered zirconia crowns fabricated using different brands in the cervical, middle, and incisal areas.

Materials and Methods

A total of 45 crowns were fabricated from three brands (Katana, Nacera, Cercon) using three methods (monolithic = ML (n=5), cut‐back + enamel = BL (n=5), cut‐back + dentin + enamel = TL (n=5)). CIE L*, a* b*, C*, h° color coordinates were recorded with a dental spectrophotometer in cervical, middle, and incisal areas. Color differences between manufacturing techniques, tooth areas, and brands were calculated using the CIEDE2000(1:1:1) formula, and the values were compared to the perceptibility (PT00) and acceptability thresholds (AT00). Comparisons between color coordinates were analyzed statistically (Kruskal‐Wallis and Mann‐Whitney U tests, p < 0.001).

Results

Significant differences were found between CIE L*, a*, b*, C*, h° coordinates of the zirconia crowns (p < 0.001), generally. The lowest color differences were obtained between BL and TL crowns in cervical and middle areas. Color differences between cervical and middle areas were mostly below PT00. An acceptable color difference was found between Katana and Cercon crowns.

Conclusions

The manufacturing technique and the brand influenced the color of zirconia crowns. Also, the color of the crowns varied from cervical to incisal.

Clinical Significance

Reproducing the optical properties of teeth with ceramic crowns might be challenging, given the differences in the internal configuration of the enamel and dentine, as well as their complex behavior when interacting with light. When deciding whether to fabricate a monolithic crown in translucent zirconia or improve its appearance by layering with more translucent glass–ceramic, the clinicians and dental technicians must be aware of these procedures' effect on the final color of the restorations.
Molecular cloning, expressional analyses and functional identification of TRAIL in tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus
Authors: Yi Liyuan , Sun Caiyun , Wu Jinying , Hou Zengxin , Li Wensheng
Published: March 2022

The tumour necrosis factor superfamily (TNFSF) plays critical roles in tumour apoptosis, tissue morphogenesis and lineage determination. TNFSF10 (TRAIL or Apol‐2) belongs to the tumour necrosis factor (TNF) cytokine family and induces rapid apoptosis in a wide variety of tumour cell lines upon binding to death‐inducing signalling receptors. In this study, we identified TNFSF10 from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and found it was most closely related to Japanese pufferfish (Takifugu rubripes) TNFSF10. Amino acid identity between tilapia TNFSF10 and mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi) TRAIL was 69.2%. The highest expression of TNFSF10 mRNA was observed in the liver. In vitro studies showed that the mRNA expression of TNFSF10 was significantly stimulated by LPS in head kidney leucocytes, but remarkably inhibited by Poly I:C in spleen leucocytes. In vivo studies showed Streptococcus agalactiae infection significantly induced the mRNA expression of TNFSF10 in both the head kidney and spleen. The soluble recombinant protein Trx‐TNFSF10 could induce cytotoxicity and apoptosis in HeLa cells with cycloheximide as a promoter. Taken together, these results in this study indicate that TNFSF10 may play important roles in the immune system of Nile tilapia.
Development of eco‐industrial parks in Ethiopia: The case of Hawassa Industrial Park
Authors: Negesa Doryn , Cong Wei , Cheng Lei , Shi Lei
Published: March 2022

As win‐win solutions at the park level, eco‐industrial parks (EIPs) have become the mainstream model to realize a sustainable transition of industrial parks in the world. However, few cases have been implemented in Africa, even though Africa is fertile ground for the growth of industrial parks. This study explores the transition process and outcome of a typical African industrial park—Hawassa Industrial Park (HIP) in Ethiopia. We adopted the international framework for EIPs and applied the strategic niche management (SNM) framework to uncover the transition performance and process. This study shows that HIP's development is a clear articulation of implementing the sustainable development strategy and the industrial park development corporation's role. However, the analysis also identified limitations such as the impracticability of certain framework criteria and inapplicable indicators. Although HIP is still at the nascent stages of EIP implementation, we have found three critical factors for EIP development in Ethiopia from our preliminary observation. These include the importance of actors, the learning process, and having standards for an indicator system. These indicators are of exceptional value to Ethiopian researchers and practitioners in integrating sustainability into local economic development.
Application of high‐frequency ultrasound in detection and identification of nasal filling injection materials
Authors: Chai Hongli , Su Xueshang , Yuan Li , Li Zehui , Liu Yue , Dou Maomei , Hu Jintian
Published: March 2022

Objective

To access and determine the ultrasound images of different nasal filling injection materials.

Methods

From November 2014 to November 2021, facial ultrasound images of Plastic Surgery Hospital of Chinese Academy of Medical Science were analyzed and judged.

Results

A total of 337 cases were enrolled, including 203 cases of hyaluronic acid, 102 cases of polyacrylamide hydrogel, 16 cases of calcium hydroxyapatite‐based fillers, 10 cases of silicone oil, and 6 cases of growth factor. According to ultrasound images, hyaluronic acid is characterized by anechoic area with a clear boundary, which seems like a capsule, and the internal echo is uniform, there is no obvious blood flow signal in it. It is possible to see a stratified appearance if hyaluronic acid diffused into surrounding tissues, and it is mainly exhibited as hypoechoic area, with anechoic or hypoechoic areas in it. Polyacrylamide hydrogel showed irregular flocculent hypoechoic or fine punctured hypoechoic under ultrasound, which could aggregate into cystic hypoechoic area or disperse in tissue space, and echo floating or dislocation flow could be seen under probe pressure. Under ultrasound, calcium hydroxyapatite‐based filler is characterized by heterogeneous hyperechoic or hypoechoic area, which spreads in the tissue space with unclear boundary with surrounding tissue, and no obvious liquid flow could be observed. Silicone oil is commonly found in the dermis, it is characterized by cloud‐like high echo, the deep tissue is not clear. Growth factor is characterized by heterogeneous echo, which is similar to the echo of peripheral tissue, and the boundary is not clear. Plenty of blood flow signals suggest infection. If the image is characterized with posterior echogenic shadow, it suggests calcification.

Conclusions

High‐frequency ultrasound can identify the types of nasal filling injection materials and can guide the selection of clinical treatment plan according to the classification of imaging features.
Saccharide isomerate ameliorates cosmetic scalp conditions in a Chinese study population
Authors: Martin Emmanuel , Zhang Anson , Campiche Remo
Published: March 2022

Background

Scalp conditions such as flaky or oily scalp affect people across ethnicities and age groups. In addition to flaking, increased sebum secretion, itching, and compromised scalp barrier function were described. Scalp conditions are aesthetically disturbing and may cause psychological distress in affected individuals who are looking for mild and effective treatment at the same time. Saccharide isomerate has a long history as a skin moisturizer, and it was found to improve skin barrier function, also suggesting possible beneficial effects on scalp.

Aims

To provide relevant claim substantiation to introduce saccharide isomerate as a new scalp care active against scalp flaking condition.

Material and Methods

We conducted a placebo‐controlled clinical study in an adult Chinese population affected by dandruff scalp as assessed by an adherent scalp flaking score. We monitored transepidermal water loss (TEWL), sebum secretion, and scalp flaking during 28 days.

Results

Formulations containing Saccharide isomerate significantly improved all parameters both over time as well as compared to the placebo formulation.

Conclusion

We propose Saccharide isomerate for cosmetic formulations directed toward improving scalp conditions such as dandruff or oily scalp.
A prolonged period of low interest rates in Europe: Unintended consequences
Authors: Malovaná Simona , Bajzík Josef , Ehrenbergerová Dominika , Janků Jan
Published: March 2022

We examine the potential adverse effects of a prolonged period of low interest rates on financial stability from multiple perspectives. First, we provide a unique comparison of natural rates of interest estimated using two approaches—with and without financial factors—for six large European countries inside and outside the euro area. Second, we provide a comprehensive review of the empirical literature, allowing us to identify and categorize financial vulnerabilities, which may be created and fueled by low interest rates. Third, we discuss a situation in which a prolonged period of low interest rates may lead to a point of no return by contributing to higher indebtedness, overvalued asset prices and underpriced risks, resource and credit misallocation, and lower productivity. With respect to all of that, we offer a few monetary policy considerations. Specifically, we suggest that (i) monetary policy should act symmetrically over the medium to long term, (ii) both the short‐term and long‐term costs and benefits of pursuing accommodative or restrictive monetary policy should be accounted for, and (iii) monetary and macroprudential policies need to be coordinated, and their interactions should be accounted for in order to find the best policy mix for the economy.
Let’s Fix our Own Problem: Quelling the Irresponsible Research Perfect Storm
Authors: Aguinis Herman , Archibold Estelle E. , Rice Darryl B.
Published: March 2022

We invoke the metaphor of the perfect storm and argue that several factors have converged to create what we label the irresponsible research perfect storm. Many of these issues can be fixed by applying management theories, but we argue this has not been done due to the existence of a research‐research gap. Akin to the research‐practice gap, the research‐research gap is a disconnect between the research academics are producing and the research academics ourselves are using to manage our own business schools, journals, professional associations, and careers. Accordingly, we offer four sets of theory‐based recommendations to quell this storm and narrow the research‐research gap: (1) promote shared governance and accountability across stakeholder groups, (2) expand the definition of scholarly impact, (3) provide journal editors with relevant resources, and (4) strengthen the knowledge, skills, and abilities of current and future scholars.
Who is the individual that will complain about temporomandibular joint clicking?
Authors: Poluha Rodrigo Lorenzi , De la Torre Canales Giancarlo , Bonjardim Leonardo Rigoldi , Conti Paulo César Rodrigues
Published: March 2022

Background

Understanding the profile of the individual complaining of TMJ clicking can help in the clinical approach of these patients.

Objective

To identify clinical variables associated with individuals who complain about and seek treatment for TMJ clicking.

Methods

Seventy‐two individuals, composed the sample: Group 1 – patients with a complaint of TMJ clicking who sought treatment; (n = 36); Group 2 – individuals with TMJ clicking who have no complaints about it (n = 36). Three categories of data were evaluated: clinical (gender; age; side of TMJ clicking; TMJ pain; self‐reported level of bother; previous TMJ clicking information); somatosensory (mechanical pain threshold [MPT], wind‐up ratio [WUR], pressure pain threshold [PPT]); and, psychosocial (Pain Vigilance and Awareness Questionnaire [PVAQ]; Pain Catastrophising Scale [PCS]; Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia for Temporomandibular Disorders [TSK/TMD]); The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS); The State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI).

Results

Group 1 was composed mostly of female patients, with TMJ pain, without previous orientation about the condition, bothered by the clicking, with lower PPT and higher scores in the PVAQ, PCS, TKS/TMD, PSS and STAI scales than Group 2. The groups did not differ significantly for side of TMJ clicking, age, MPT and WUR.

Conclusion

Individuals who have a TMJ clicking complaint and seek treatment are mostly female, have TMJ pain, have not received previous orientation about TMJ clicking, are bothered by the clicking, have a lower pain threshold and higher scores of hypervigilance, catastrophising, kinesiophobia, stress and anxiety than people with TMJ clicking who do not report it.
Selection and socialization effects of studying abroad
Authors: Nissen Adam T. , Bleidorn Wiebke , Ericson Samantha , Hopwood Christopher J.
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Studying abroad is often considered a life‐changing experience. However, research on studying abroad has not always disentangled selection from socialization effects, leading to uncertainty about the actual impact of this experience. In this 4‐wave longitudinal study, we examined both selection and socialization effects of a 4‐week intensive study abroad program on 17 psychosocial variables related to motivation, academic achievement, well‐being, and self‐reflection.

Method

We used propensity score matching and multiple‐group growth curve models to examine selection and socialization effects in a sample of sojourners (n = 145) and non‐sojourners (n = 291).

Results

We found selection effects for several variables related to students’ motivation and well‐being. Contrary to our predictions, we found no evidence for socialization effects of studying abroad on any of the outcome variables.

Conclusions

Students who are relatively more intrinsically motivated and emotionally healthy appear to be more likely to study abroad. However, studying abroad for one month does not appear to lead to meaningful and lasting psychological change, on average. Our results highlight the need to examine both selection and socialization effects of study abroad programs with longitudinal data and well‐matched comparison groups.
Self‐esteem development during the transition to work: A 14‐year longitudinal study from adolescence to young adulthood
Authors: Filosa Lorenzo , Alessandri Guido , Robins Richard W. , Pastorelli Concetta
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Previous studies examined the trajectory of self‐esteem during critical developmental periods and over the life‐span. However, little is known about how self‐esteem changes during the school‐to‐work transition.

Method

We examined the effect of beginning a job for the first time on self‐esteem development, using data from 368 adolescents assessed up to six times across a 14‐year time span. Specifically, we analyzed the pattern of self‐esteem change during the transition to work and whether the self‐esteem trajectory varied as a function of several school‐ and job‐related variables, while controlling for important covariates.

Results

Results revealed linear increases in self‐esteem across the 14‐year study period, with partial support that the rate of increase slowed slightly after the school‐to‐work transition. We found significantly greater variability in the slopes after the transition, supporting the idea that people differ in the way they cope with the developmental tasks associated with important life transitions. We also found evidence for an interaction between college graduation and educational expectations, such that the positive effect of college graduation on self‐esteem change was stronger for those who graduated with low (vs. high) educational expectations.

Conclusion

School‐to‐work transition has an effect on self‐esteem development. Developmental processes of findings were discussed.
Kovacikia minuta sp. nov. (Leptolyngbyaceae, Cyanobacteria), a new freshwater chlorophyll f‐producing cyanobacterium
Authors: Shen Li‐Qin , Zhang Zhong‐Chun , Shang Jin‐Long , Li Zheng‐Ke , Chen Min , Li Renhui , Qiu Bao‐Sheng
Published: March 2022

A few groups of cyanobacteria have been characterized as having far‐red light photoacclimation (FaRLiP) that results from chlorophyll f (Chl f) production. In this study, using a polyphasic approach, we taxonomically transferred the Cf. Leptolyngbya sp. CCNUW1 isolated from a shaded freshwater pond, which produces Chl f under far‐red light, to the genus Kovacikia and named this taxon Kovacikia minuta sp. nov. This strain was morphologically similar to Leptolyngbya‐like strains. The thin filaments were purplish‐brown under white light but became grass green under far‐red light. The 31‐gene phylogeny grouped K. minuta CCNU0001 into order Synechococcales and family Leptolyngbyaceae. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences further showed that K. minuta CCNU0001 was clustered into Kovacikia with similarities of 97.2–97.4% to the recently reported type species of Kovacikia muscicola HA7619‐LM3. Additionally, the internal transcribed spacer region between 16S–23S rRNA genes had a unique sequence and secondary structure compared with other Kovacikia strains and phylogenetically related taxa. Draft genome sequences of K. minuta CCNU0001 (8,564,336 bp) were assembled into one circular chromosome and two circular plasmids. A FaRLiP 20‐gene cluster comprised two operons with the unique organization. In sum, K. minuta was established as a new species, and it is the first species reported to produce Chl f and for which a draft genome was produced in genus Kovacikia. This study expanded our knowledge regarding the diversity of Chl f‐producing cyanobacteria in far‐red light‐enriched environments and provides important foundational information for future investigations of FaRLiP evolution in cyanobacteria.
Pediatric Rome IV diagnosis agreement is greater than agreement on diagnostic testing
Authors: Kaul Isha , Staggs Vincent S. , Bagherian Amber , Ali Amna , Shulman Robert J. , Colombo Jennifer M. , Schurman Jennifer V. , Chumpitazi Bruno P. , Friesen Craig A.
Published: March 2022

Background

Pediatric Rome IV criteria are used to diagnose childhood functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). This study of pediatric gastroenterology physicians measured their agreement in (1) Making a pediatric Rome IV FGID diagnosis; and (2) Diagnostic testing for patients with FGIDs.

Methods

Pediatric gastroenterologists and pediatric gastroenterology fellows at two medical centers completed a survey containing clinical FGID vignettes. For each vignette, raters identified the most likely Rome IV diagnosis(es) and selected which diagnostic test(s) (if any) they typically would obtain. The survey was re‐administered within 3 months. Inter‐rater and intra‐rater weighted percent agreement was determined. Linear mixed modeling identified sources of variability in diagnostic testing.

Key Results

Thirty‐four raters completed the initial survey of whom thirty‐one (91%) completed the repeat survey. Overall inter‐rater agreement on Rome IV diagnoses was 68% for initial and repeat surveys whereas intra‐rater agreement was 76%. In contrast, overall inter‐rater agreement on diagnostic testing was <30% for both initial and repeat surveys and intra‐rater agreement was only 57%. Between‐physician differences accounted for 43% of the variability in the number of tests selected. Rater identified use of Rome criteria in clinical practice was associated with 1.1 fewer diagnostic tests on average (95% CI 0.2–2.0, p = 0.015). Higher intra‐rater agreement was noted for diagnostic testing in faculty when compared to fellows (p = 0.009).

Conclusions & Inferences

In a multicenter evaluation among pediatric gastroenterology physicians, pediatric Rome IV diagnostic agreement was higher than that reported for previous Rome versions, and higher than agreement on diagnostic testing.
Tamoxifen administration alters gastrointestinal motility in mice
Authors: Bhave Sukhada , Ho Wing Lam N. , Cheng Katarina , Omer Meredith , Bousquet Nicole , Guyer Richard A. , Hotta Ryo , Goldstein Allan M.
Published: March 2022

Background

Tamoxifen is widely used for Cre‐estrogen receptor‐mediated genomic recombination in transgenic mouse models to mark cells for lineage tracing and to study gene function. However, recent studies have highlighted off‐target effects of tamoxifen in various tissues and cell types when used for induction of Cre recombination. Despite the widespread use of these transgenic Cre models to assess gastrointestinal (GI) function, the effect of tamoxifen exposure on GI motility has not been described.

Methods

We examined the effects of tamoxifen on GI motility by measuring total GI transit, gastric emptying, small intestinal transit, and colonic contractility in wild‐type adult mice.

Key Results

We observed a significant delay in total GI transit in tamoxifen‐treated mice, with unaltered gastric emptying, accelerated small intestinal transit, and abnormal colonic motility.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the importance of considering GI motility alterations induced by tamoxifen when designing protocols that utilize tamoxifen as a Cre‐driver for studying GI function.
Chemical phenotype as important and dynamic niche dimension of plants
Authors: Müller Caroline , Junker Robert R.
Published: March 2022

Niche theory considering the traits of species and individuals provides a powerful tool to integrate ecology and evolution of species. In plant ecology, morphological and physiological traits are commonly considered as niche dimensions, whereas phytochemical traits are mostly neglected in this context despite their pivotal functions in plant responses to their environment and in mediating interactions. The diversity of plant phytochemicals can thus mediate three key processes: niche choice, conformance and construction. Here, we integrate frameworks from niche theory with chemical ecology and argue that plants use their individual‐specific diversity in phytochemicals (chemodiversity) for different niche realization processes. Our concept has important implications for ecosystem processes and stability and increases the predictive ability of chemical ecology.
Xylella fastidiosa’s relationships: the bacterium, the host plants, and the plant microbiome
Authors: Landa Blanca B. , Saponari Maria , Feitosa‐Junior Oseias R. , Giampetruzzi Annalisa , Vieira Filipe J. D. , Mor Eliana , Robatzek Silke
Published: March 2022

Xylella fastidiosa is the causal agent of important crop diseases and is transmitted by xylem‐sap‐feeding insects. The bacterium colonizes xylem vessels and can persist with a commensal or pathogen lifestyle in more than 500 plant species. In the past decade, reports of X. fastidiosa across the globe have dramatically increased its known occurrence. This raises important questions: How does X. fastidiosa interact with the different host plants? How does the bacterium interact with the plant immune system? How does it influence the host’s microbiome? We discuss recent strain genetic typing and plant transcriptome and microbiome analyses, which have advanced our understanding of factors that are important for X. fastidiosa plant infection.
Is plastidic glutamine synthetase essential for C3 plants? A tale of photorespiratory mutants, ammonium tolerance and conifers
Authors: Marino Daniel , Cañas Rafael A. , Betti Marco
Published: March 2022

Agriculture faces the considerable challenge of having to adapt to a progressively changing climate (including the increase in CO2 levels and temperatures); environmental impact must be reduced while at the same time crop yields need to be maintained or increased to ensure food security. Under this scenario, increasing plants’ nitrogen (N) use efficiency and minimizing the energy losses associated with photorespiration are two goals of crop breeding that are long sought after. The plastidic glutamine synthetase (GS2) enzyme stands at the crossroads of N assimilation and photorespiration, and is therefore a key candidate for the improvement of crop performance. The GS2 enzyme has long been considered essential for angiosperm survival under photorespiratory conditions. Surprisingly, in Arabidopsis GS2 is not essential for plant survival, and its absence confers tolerance towards ammonium stress, which is in conflict with the idea that NH4+ accumulation is one of the main causes of ammonium stress. Altogether, it appears that the ‘textbook’ view of this enzyme must be revisited, especially regarding the degree to which it is essential for plant growth under photorespiratory conditions, and the role of NH4+ assimilation during ammonium stress. In this article we open the debate on whether more or less GS2 is a desirable trait for plant productivity.
Dam stories: Using narrative analysis to understand the debate over water security and the Waimea Community Dam
Authors: Lanari Nora , Overton John
Published: March 2022

In this article we investigate why environmental debates swing in one direction or another by analysing the discursive construction of water security surrounding the Waimea Community Dam in Aotearoa New Zealand. Using narrative policy analysis based on interview and documentary data, we show how an initial dominant rural water security story was reshaped into a new win‐win‐win metanarrative by absorbing concerns relating to environmental and urban water security. Opposition to the dam, in contrast, failed to gain traction because it did not sufficiently engage with the question of water security, thus increasing uncertainty and paradoxically strengthening the new metanarrative.
Effect of end‐tidal carbon dioxide level on the optic nerve sheath diameter measured by transorbital ultrasonography in anesthetized pediatric patients: A randomized trial
Authors: Jang Young‐Eun , Nam SeungPyo , Ji Sang‐Hwan , Kim Eun‐Hee , Lee Ji‐Hyun , Jung Jae Ho , Kim Hee‐Soo , Kim Jin‐Tae
Published: March 2022

Background

Intraoperative hypercapnia and hypocapnia are common during pediatric anesthesia, and the cerebral blood flow and intracranial pressure may be affected by the partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide. Transorbital ultrasound measurement of the optic nerve sheath diameter is a simple and non‐invasive method for intracranial pressure assessment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of end‐tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) on optic nerve sheath diameter in a healthy anesthetized pediatric population.

Methods

Pediatric patients scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia and mechanical ventilation in the supine position were enrolled and divided into four subgroups; age <2 years, 2–6 years, 6–12 years, and 12–18 years. Mechanical ventilation was adjusted to achieve target ETCO2 levels in a randomized sequence (40–35–45–40 mmHg or 40–45–35–40 mmHg). Three minutes after reaching each target ETCO2 level, transorbital ultrasound images of optic nerve sheath diameter were obtained and analyzed. The primary outcome was the optic nerve sheath diameter at each ETCO2 level.

Results

Sixty‐four pediatric patients were enrolled and analyzed. At ETCO2 = 40 mmHg, the optic nerve sheath diameter was 5.6 ± 0.6 mm, 6.4 ± 0.5 mm, 6.8 ± 0.6 mm, and 7.1 ± 0.5 mm in children aged <2 years, 2–6 years, 6–12 years, and 12–18 years, respectively. The overall percent decreases in the optic nerve sheath diameter was −5.6 ± −4.3% (95% CI; −6.7 to −4.5%) at ETCO2 = 35 mmHg while the overall percent increases of optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) was 4.9 ± 5.1% (95% CI; 3.6 to 6.1%) at ETCO2 = 45 mmHg compared with those at ETCO2 = 40 mmHg. Spearman rank correlation analysis indicated that there were weak to moderate correlation between ETCO2 and the optic nerve sheath diameter (correlation coefficient [p‐value] = .355 [.004], .318 [.014], .373 [<.001], and .420 [<.001] in children aged <2 years, 2–6 years, 6–12 years, and 12–18 years, respectively).

Conclusions

The optic nerve sheath diameter measured by transorbital ultrasound showed rapid reactivity from ETCO2 35 to 45 mmHg in healthy pediatric patients under inhalation general anesthesia.
Development of a classifier for gambling disorder based on functional connections between brain regions
Authors: Takeuchi Hideaki , Yahata Noriaki , Lisi Giuseppe , Tsurumi Kosuke , Yoshihara Yujiro , Kawada Ryosaku , Murao Takuro , Mizuta Hiroto , Yokomoto Tatsunori , Miyagi Takashi , Nakagami Yukako , Yoshioka Toshinori , Yoshimoto Junichiro , Kawato Mitsuo , Murai Toshiya , Morimoto Jun , Takahashi Hidehiko
Published: March 2022

Aim

Recently, a machine‐learning (ML) technique has been used to create generalizable classifiers for psychiatric disorders based on information of functional connections (FCs) between brain regions at resting state. These classifiers predict diagnostic labels by a weighted linear sum (WLS) of the correlation values of a small number of selected FCs. We aimed to develop a generalizable classifier for gambling disorder (GD) from the information of FCs using the ML technique and examine relationships between WLS and clinical data.

Methods

As a training dataset for ML, data from 71 GD patients and 90 healthy controls (HCs) were obtained from two magnetic resonance imaging sites. We used an ML algorithm consisting of a cascade of an L1‐regularized sparse canonical correlation analysis and a sparse logistic regression to create the classifier. The generalizability of the classifier was verified using an external dataset. This external dataset consisted of six GD patients and 14 HCs, and was collected at a different site from the sites of the training dataset. Correlations between WLS and South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS) and duration of illness were examined.

Results

The classifier distinguished between the GD patients and HCs with high accuracy in leave‐one‐out cross‐validation (area under curve (AUC = 0.89)). This performance was confirmed in the external dataset (AUC = 0.81). There was no correlation between WLS, and SOGS and duration of illness in the GD patients.

Conclusion

We developed a generalizable classifier for GD based on information of functional connections between brain regions at resting state.
Talking to a (Segregation) Wall: Intergroup Contact and Attitudes Toward Normalization Among Palestinians From the Occupied Territories
Authors: Albzour Mai , Bady Zacharia , Elcheroth Guy , Penic Sandra , Reimer Nils , Green Eva G. T.
Published: March 2022

This article examines how Palestinians' intergroup contact experiences relate to their attitudes towards interactions with Israelis (i.e., normalization). We draw on four recent advances in intergroup contact literature. First, recent research indicates that positive contact can impede disadvantaged groups' motivation to challenge inequalities. Second, increased endorsement of normalization mediates this sedative effect of positive contact on motivation to resist in the West Bank. Third, negative contact has been related to increased motivation for social change. Fourth, institutions and societal norms shape the meaning of intergroup contact and its effect on intergroup relations. We hypothesize that negative experiences at checkpoints can act as reminders of institutionalized inequalities and thus attenuate sedative effects. Furthermore, we explore the contextual boundary conditions of such reminder effects. Analyses of cross‐sectional survey conducted among a representative sample (N = 1,000) in the West Bank including Jerusalem showed that (1) positive intergroup contact related to normalization endorsement (sedative effect), (2) negative intergroup contact related to decreased normalization endorsement (mobilizing effect), and (3) negative contact experiences (at checkpoints) canceled out the effect of positive contact (reminder effect), but only in Jerusalem. Results suggest that the impacts of intergroup contact need to be interpreted in light of institutionalized forms of group inequality and segregation.
Nanoparticles as potential hallmarks of drought stress tolerance in plants
Authors: Kandhol Nidhi , Jain Mukesh , Tripathi Durgesh Kumar
Published: March 2022

Plants are inevitably exposed to drought stress limiting their growth and causing yield loss, thus inciting food crises across the world. Nanoparticles (NPs) are regarded as effective and promising tools for modulation of crop yield to overcome current and future constraints in sustainable agricultural production by upgrading the plant tolerance mechanism under abiotic stress conditions, including drought. NPs exhibit alleviating effects against drought stress via induction of physiological and biochemical readjustments accompanied by modulation of gene expression involved in drought response/tolerance. NPs ameliorate drought‐induced reduction in carbon assimilation via increasing the photosynthetic activity. The improved root growth, upregulation of aquaporins, modification of intracellular water metabolism, accumulation of compatible solutes and ion homeostasis are the major mechanisms used by NPs to mitigate the osmotic stress caused by water deficit. NPs reduce water loss from leaves through stomatal closure due to fostered abscisic acid (ABA) accumulation and ameliorate oxidative stress damage by reducing reactive oxygen species and activating the antioxidant defense system. This review provides an evolutionary foundation regarding drought stress in plant life and summarizes the interactions between NPs and plants under drought. The subsequent impact of NPs on plant development and productivity and recent nanobiotechnological approaches to improve drought stress resilience are presented. On the whole, this review highlights the significance of NPs in dealing with the global problem of water scarcity faced by farmers.
Plasma NfL is associated with mild cognitive decline in patients with diabetes
Authors: Marutani Noriko , Akamine Shoshin , Kanayama Daisuke , Gotoh Shiho , Yanagida Kanta , Maruyama Riki , Mori Kohji , Miyamoto Tesshin , Adachi Hiroyoshi , Sakagami Yukako , Yoshiyama Kenji , Hotta Maki , Nagase Aki , Kozawa Junji , Maeda Norikazu , Otsuki Michio , Matsuoka Takaaki , Iwahashi Hiromi , Shimomura Iichiro , Murayama Norihito , Watanabe Hiroshi , Ikeda Manabu , Mizuta Ichiro , Kudo Takashi
Published: March 2022

Background

Patients with diabetes are at a higher risk for cognitive decline. Thus, biomarkers that can provide early and simple detection of cognitive decline are required. Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is a cytoskeletal protein that constitutes neural axons. Plasma NfL levels are elevated when neurodegeneration occurs. Here, we investigated whether plasma NfL levels were associated with cognitive decline in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Method

This study included 183 patients with type 2 diabetes who visited Osaka University Hospital. All participants were tested for cognitive function using the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test (RBMT). NfL levels were analysed in the plasma and the relationship between NfL and cognitive function was examined.

Results

Lower RBMT‐standardized profile scores (SPS) or MMSE scores correlated with higher plasma NfL levels (one‐way analysis of variance: MMSE, P = 0.0237; RBMT‐SPS, P = 0.0001). Furthermore, plasma NfL levels (β = −0.34, P = 0.0005) and age (β = −0.19, P = 0.016) were significantly associated with the RBMT score after multivariable regression adjustment.

Conclusions

Plasma NfL levels were correlated with mild cognitive decline which is detected by the RBMT but not the MMSE in patients with type 2 diabetes. This suggests that plasma NfL levels may provide a valuable clinical tool for identifying mild cognitive decline in patients with diabetes.
Bureaucratic Representation, Accountability, and Democracy: A Qualitative Study of Indigenous Bureaucrats in Australia and Canada
Authors: Althaus Catherine , O'Faircheallaigh Ciaran
Published: March 2022

Using a qualitative study of Indigenous public servants in Canada and Australia, this article helps open the “black box” of bureaucratic representation. Findings dispel any idea that active representation is unproblematic for minority bureaucrats themselves. In fact, it exacts a high price with respect to working in isolation, confronting racism, facing formidable obstacles to pursue, or challenge policy processes and outcomes aligned with the interests of the communities from which they come and ultimately leading many to exit the bureaucracy or forego career opportunities. Despite this, our findings show that Indigenous bureaucrats bring about policy change that would not otherwise occur, and mechanisms of accountability are at work, within government and between bureaucrats and the communities from which they are drawn. Indigenous bureaucratic leadership is valuable in bridging understanding between elected officials and communities and navigating respectfully the intersections of culture and power across the policy making process to the benefit of all citizens, to “country” and across generations. These findings imply that new inclusive models of representative bureaucracy are both necessary and desirable to make bureaucracy serve multicultural societies and constructively confront environmental crises in the modern era.

Evidence for Practice

Concepts that equate bureaucratic “partiality” with favoritism, oversimplify the way in which public servants consider, and manage tensions between minority interests they are assumed to “represent” and the wider public interest and democratic accountability.

Participants in our research are acutely aware of the need to balance two “lines of accountability” (to government and to their communities), and when the tension between the two cannot be managed, they beat a tactical retreat and wait for a more favorable opportunity, or, if this seems unlikely, they leave the public service.

Indigenous public servants promote the democratic project by actively involving otherwise disenfranchised members of society, including the perspectives of time and the land itself, in the policy making process. They make government and its processes understandable and help (re)build trust.
Inferring the Sources of HIV Infection in Africa from Deep-Sequence Data with Semi-Parametric Bayesian Poisson Flow Models
Authors: Xi Xiaoyue , Spencer Simon E. F. , Hall Matthew , Grabowski M. Kate , Kagaayi Joseph , Ratmann Oliver
Published: March 2022

Pathogen deep-sequencing is an increasingly routinely used technology in infectious disease surveillance. We present a semi-parametric Bayesian Poisson model to exploit these emerging data for inferring infectious disease transmission flows and the sources of infection at the population level. The framework is computationally scalable in high-dimensional flow spaces thanks to Hilbert Space Gaussian process approximations, allows for sampling bias adjustments, and estimation of gender- and age-specific transmission flows at finer resolution than previously possible. We apply the approach to densely sampled, population-based HIV deep-sequence data from Rakai, Uganda, and find substantive evidence that adolescent and young women were predominantly infected through age-disparate relationships in the study period 2009–2015.