bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caterpillar loss through grassland harvest differs between two related butterfly species of conservation concern
Authors: Scherer Gwydion , Fartmann Thomas
Published: September 2023

Temperate, semi‐natural grasslands emerged from traditional land use and are recognised for their outstanding biodiversity. However, these grasslands severely declined due to agricultural industrialisation. Accordingly, specialised species of nutrient‐poor grasslands like the closely related butterflies Nickerls Fritillary Melitaea aurelia Nickerl, 1850 and Marsh Fritillary Euphydyras aurinia (Rottemburg, 1775) (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) have experienced strong declines in the last century due to grassland loss and deterioration. Here, we studied for the first time the effects of the complete harvest process in grasslands from mowing until the removal of the cut vegetation on the survival of their caterpillars.

To assess survival rates, we sampled larvae of both species and environmental conditions before and after the harvest process and analysed the results using generalised linear mixed‐effects models.

Our study revealed that the harvest process in grasslands mown once by bar mowers resulted in substantial caterpillar loss influenced by (i) growth form of the host plants and (ii) timing of grassland harvest. Accordingly, the host plant of E. aurinia, Succisa prantensis, lost nearly half of its leaves during the harvest process, while late harvesting was especially harmful for caterpillars already commencing hibernation. Overall, E. aurinia had higher losses compared with M. aurelia, and these were most severe in late‐mown moist meadows.

To increase the survival rate of E. aurinia, we recommend mowing before the beginning of hibernation using bar mowers. Complementary, or if mowing is done later, at least 20% of the meadow should be left as an untouched refuge in a spatially rotating manner.
Simply Given: Self‐Gift and Consubstantiality in Aquinas and Social Trinitarianism
Authors: Higgins Michael Joseph
Published: September 2023

Social Trinitarians have long argued that a strong reading of consubstantiality rules out the possibility of anything interpersonal – including interpersonal self‐giving – in God. I argue that, for Aquinas, the claim that all three persons are identical to the same nature is no threat to interpersonal self‐giving. Nor is it merely compatible with interpersonal self‐giving. Instead, it is necessary for the fullest possible self‐giving: if the Father and the Son did not share a single nature, then the Father could not give everything he has to the Son.
Influence of side effect information on patient willingness to take medication: consequences for informed consent and medication adherence
Authors: Barker Jessica M. , Faasse Kate
Published: September 2023

Medication side effect information can create negative patient expectations of side effects, but such information is considered crucial to informed consent. The current study investigated the effect of informing participants of different numbers of medication side effects. Willingness to take the medication was highest for those informed of one or four compared with none or 26 side effects, and memory of side effects was also more accurate. Findings suggest that informing patients of some, but not several, side effects may optimise both medication adherence and accuracy of informed consent.
Perceptions of community mental health services among culturally diverse adult Singaporeans with major depressive disorder: A descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Tan Ronel Xian Rong , Goh Yong Shian
Published: September 2023

Persons with major depressive disorder (PMDDs) often experience pernicious ramifications on the biopsychosocial aspects of their health. While community mental health services (CMHSs) in Singapore are increasingly leveraged to meet the escalating demand for mental healthcare, shortcomings such as a substantial treatment gap and the lack of holistic, culturally sensitive care have been highlighted. Of note, the perspectives of the service users, which have hardly been studied in the literature, are crucial to our understanding of their needs to continuously improve CMHSs. Accordingly, this qualitative descriptive study explored the perceptions and experiences of community‐dwelling adults with major depressive disorder in their use of CMHSs in Singapore. Seventeen adults with major depressive disorder purposefully sampled from a CMHS provider were interviewed through a semi‐structured guide between October and November 2021. Data analysis via Braun and Clarke's six‐step thematic framework yielded five themes corresponding to three different phases: pre‐CMHS encounter ((i) procrastination to seek help and (ii) factors influencing CMHS utilization); intra‐CMHS encounter ((iii) incongruous perceptions of the impacts on biopsychosocial health and (iv) differing perceptions and experiences of culturally sensitive care); and post‐CMHS encounter ((v) enhancing CMHSs for PMDDs based on end‐users' experiences). Our findings underscore the need to improve the delivery of personalized mental healthcare services, use of settings‐ and culturally‐specific anti‐stigma strategies, and nationwide mental health literacy in symptom recognition and awareness of help‐seeking resources.
Developing a Simple Strategy for Roadside Spring Water Disinfection in Central Appalachia
Authors: Patton Hannah , Krometis Leigh‐Anne , Faulkner Ben B. , Cohen Alasdair , Ling Erin , Sarver Emily
Published: September 2023

Several studies have highlighted issues of unreliable access to safe drinking water in the Appalachian region. In some cases, residents turn to roadside springs as a practical, and culturally valuable, drinking water source. However, public reliance on roadside springs for potable use can present concerns, as bacterial contamination of spring water has been documented throughout Appalachia. This study aimed to 1) develop a simple, low‐cost protocol using household bleach to inactivate total coliform and E. coli in untreated roadside spring water; 2) provide educational materials at local roadside springs to inform users of this simple treatment strategy; and 3) assess spring user perceptions of the educational materials via a short survey. Laboratory scale trials emulating typical spring water collection and storage conditions investigated the use of household bleach (7.4‐7.5% sodium hypochlorite) for total coliform and E. coli bacteria inactivation and free chlorine residual maintenance in spring water over time. Results showed that 2 drops (approximately 0.10 mL) of household bleach from an eyedropper per 1 gallon of spring water provided adequate total coliform and E. coli disinfection, while maintaining free chlorine levels below typical taste thresholds and providing sufficient residual over a 1‐month trial period. An infographic communicating the disinfection protocol and a corresponding survey were created and distributed at roadside springs in rural regions of southwestern Virginia and southern West Virginia. The majority of spring user survey respondents (80%) reported that the infographic was generally helpful, and over half of respondents stated that they would use the bleach protocol.
Producer Perceptions on the Value and Availability of Water for Irrigation in the Mississippi Delta
Authors: Kaur Gurpreet , Ashwell Nicolas E. Quintana , Singh Gurbir , Gholson Drew , Locke Martin A. , Krutz L.J. , Cooke Trey
Published: September 2023

The agricultural production in the Mississippi Delta is threatened by the water level declines in the Mississippi River Valley Alluvial Aquifer (MRVAA). This study assesses the growers’ perceptions of the value and availability of water for irrigation based on data collected in a survey in 2012 in the Delta region of Mississippi, USA. The total cooperation rate for this survey was 79.3%. The results showed that 97.39% (448 out of 460) of respondents believed that water is important for farming in the Delta region of the MRVAA. Fifty‐two percent of the survey respondents agreed that the major cause of groundwater depletion is agricultural irrigation water use. More than 50% of the survey respondents believed there is sufficient water in the Delta region, but it is not managed properly. The value of water for irrigation ranged from $463 to $690 per ha for corn (Zea maysL.), $399 to $615 per ha for soybean (Glycine maxL.), and $223 to $336 per ha for cotton (Gossypium hirsutumL.). The majority of the respondents considered that there is a need for regulation of water use to protect the aquifer and ensure water availability in the future.
Phenomenography: An emerging qualitative research design for nursing
Authors: Bayuo Jonathan , Aziato Lydia , Wong Kwan Ching Arkers , Su Jingjing , Abu‐Odah Hammoda , Wong Frances Kam Yuet
Published: September 2023

Background

Phenomenography emerged from pedagogy to examine the qualitatively different ways that individuals experience and perceive the same phenomenon. Despite its uniqueness, the uptake of phenomenography in nursing research is still limited. Potentially, this may be related to confusion regarding what the design is about, its philosophical underpinnings and how distinct it is from other qualitative designs.

Objectives

To offer a better understanding of phenomenography by comparing it with other established qualitative research designs, examining its theoretical foundations, highlighting some studies that have employed the approach in nursing and offering methodological guidance to improve its uptake in nursing.

Design

Discussion paper.

Findings

Compared to the traditional qualitative designs employed in nursing, phenomenography has been utilized in fewer studies. The ontological, epistemological and methodological basis of phenomenography highlights it as a distinct design. The strength of phenomenography lies in its emphasis on understanding the collective variations between participants and presenting these holistically as an ‘outcome space’.

Discussion

Phenomenography is a distinct qualitative research approach that presents a unique opportunity for nursing to further its use. Issues regarding bracketing, the inclusion of phenomenography studies in qualitative meta‐synthesis and employing a hermeneutic approach to phenomenography are avenues for further work in nursing.

Patient and Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Economic demand for auditing services in the “registered” investment management industry
Authors: (Aloke) Ghosh Al , Liu Yang
Published: September 2023

We hypothesize that the demand for auditing in the registered investment management industry arises from the auditor's ability to act as a solvent indemnifier when outside parties incur losses because of financial misrepresentations. Consistent with this insurance demand, we find that, relative to financial companies, registered investment companies are more likely to retain Big 4 auditors. Restricting the sample to the registered investment management industry, we construct three direct tests of the insurance demand hypothesis. We find that (a) the market share of a Big 4 firm is positively associated with the firm's wealth, (b) changes in audit fees are positively associated with changes in the audit firms’ wealth, and (c) net fund flows increase when clients switch from non‐Big 4 to Big 4 auditors. Our results highlight an unusually high demand for Big 4 auditors in the registered investment industry, which we attribute to the insurance demand for auditing services.
Global patterns of the species richness and distribution of eriophyoid mites: a response to Li et al. 2023
Authors: Ozman‐Sullivan Sebahat K. , Sullivan Gregory T.
Published: September 2023

Aim

The global distribution and diversity of mites, including the species rich and highly host plant‐specific eriophyoid mites, are important questions in biogeography and biodiversity conservation. Here we critique the paper of Li et al. (2023) titled ‘Global patterns and drivers of herbivorous eriophyoid mite species diversity’.

Location

Global

Taxon

Eriophyoid mites (Acari: Eriophyoidea)

Methods

We assert that the data set utilized (less than 4,500 eriophyoid species) consisted of only the described extant species, not all extant species. We then provide evidence that the utilised data set represents only a small proportion of the likely global total of eriophyoid species and therefore provides a far from complete representation of their global distribution.

Results

Most collections of extant eriophyoid mites have been conducted in temperate regions where most taxonomic specialists have been active, and not in the largely unstudied tropical regions which contain a very substantial majority of all plant diversity. Most undescribed eriophyoid diversity is therefore highly likely to be found in the tropics. This suggests that the global modelling analyses of Li et al. (2023) were very likely applied to a highly inaccurate data set.

Main Conclusions

The actual global distribution and total number of eriophyoid mite species can only be more reliably estimated by systematic taxonomic studies that cover the entire global distribution of plant diversity, which implies a strong focus on the tropical regions.
Evaluation of low‐energy x‐rays as an alternative to chlorine washing to control internalized foodborne pathogens in lettuce
Authors: Jee Da‐Young , Cha Seung‐Yeon , Ha Jae‐Won
Published: September 2023

Low‐energy X‐rays can be used to reduce the number of pathogenic microorganisms in fresh produce, but the efficacy of this process against internalized bacteria in leafy greens has not yet been reported. The leaves of iceberg lettuce were cut into pieces and subjected to vacuum perfusion to force the foodborne pathogen cells into the intercellular spaces within the leaves. Sodium hypochlorite (200–400 ppm) washes were not effective in inactivating internalized bacterial cells from lettuce leaves. In contrast, treatment with 1.5 kGy low‐energy X‐rays reduced Escherichia coli O157: H7, Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium, and Listeria monocytogenes levels by 6.89, 4.48, and 3.22 log CFU/g, respectively. Additionally, the maximum dose of X‐rays did not adversely affect the color or texture of lettuce. These results suggest that low‐energy X‐ray treatment can be used to control internalized and surface‐adhering pathogens in leafy vegetables without affecting product quality.
Settling environmental citizenship: The presentation of self in conservation encounters
Authors: Garcia Rocío M. , Rasmussen Mattias Borg
Published: September 2023

Far from a settled fact, environmental citizenship is always in the making. In this article, we analyze how the settlers of a protected area in Patagonia, Argentina, seek to legitimize their claims for natural resources and territory through strategic representations of themselves. The self‐presentation molds not only their own political subjects, but also the public authority of the governing offices. We argue that the legitimization of public institutions is partial and fragmented, allowing settlers to legitimize their claims and become active producers of environmental citizenship. The conservation encounters reproduce social practices, cultural symbols, and governmental artifacts. In this way, they contribute to the affirmation of state authority and the hegemony of the nation‐state through their reproduction of the Patagonian imaginaries, while also curbing the sphere of influence of any particular institution.
Systematic review and data synthesis on the treatment of sexual violence victimization by an intimate partner
Authors: Karakurt Gunnur , Baier Allison L. , Bowling Alexandra R. , Singuri Srinidhi , Oguztuzun Cerag , Bolen Shari
Published: September 2023

This study aims to conduct a systematic review and synthesis on the treatment of sexual violence victimization by an intimate partner evaluating specifically the impact of treatment on mental health outcomes of female sexual intimate partner violence (IPV) survivors. We followed the Cochrane Handbook for Systemic Reviews of Interventions guidelines for the process of conducting systematic reviews. We were unable to conduct meta‐analyses due to the substantial heterogeneity of the interventions for IPV. A qualitative summary of 6 controlled studies identified no benefit to the treatment of sexual coercion, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, or anxiety for female sexual IPV survivors. However, we are limited by a paucity of data for each outcome on this subject. In conclusion, sexual coercion is a complex issue that has adverse effects on mental health and the well‐being of the survivors. More research is needed that investigates what kind of interventions are effective for this specific population.
Thirty years of BDNF study in central myelination: From biology to therapy
Authors: Xiao Junhua
Published: September 2023

Being the highest expressed neurotrophin in the mammalian brain, the brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is essential to neural development and plasticity in both health and diseases. Following the discovery of BDNF by Yves‐Alain Barde in 1982, the main feature of BDNF's activity in myelination was first described by Cellerino et al. in 1997. Since then, genetic manipulation of the BDNF‐encoding gene and its receptors in murine models has revealed the contribution of BDNF to the myelinating process in the central nervous system (CNS). The series of BDNF or receptor mouse mutants as well as the BDNF polymorphism in humans have provided new insights into the roles that BDNF signaling plays in myelination in a complex manner. 2024 marks the 30th year of BDNF's research in myelination. Here, we share our perspective on the 30‐year history of BDNF in the field of CNS myelination from phenotyping to therapeutic development, focusing on genetic evidence regarding the mechanism by which BDNF regulates myelin formation and repair in the CNS. This review also discusses the current hypotheses of BDNF's action on CNS myelination: axonal‐ and oligodendroglial‐driven mechanisms, which may be ultimately activity‐dependent. Last, this review raises the challenges and opportunities of developing BDNF‐based therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, opening unanswered questions for future investigation.

image
No association between metformin initiation and incident dementia in older adults newly diagnosed with diabetes
Authors: Wu Che‐Yuan , Wang Christa , Saskin Refik , Shah Baiju R. , Kapral Moira K. , Lanctôt Krista L. , Herrmann Nathan , Cogo‐Moreira Hugo , MacIntosh Bradley J. , Edwards Jodi D. , Swardfager Walter
Published: September 2023

Background

Metformin has been suggested to reduce dementia risk; however, most epidemiologic studies have been limited by immortal time bias or confounding due to disease severity.

Objectives

To investigate the association of metformin initiation with incident dementia using strategies that mitigate these important sources of bias.

Methods

Residents of Ontario, Canada ≥66 years newly diagnosed with diabetes from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2017 entered this retrospective population‐based cohort. To consider the indication for metformin monotherapy initiation, people with hemoglobin A1c of 6.5%–8.0% and estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥45 mL/min/1.73 m2 were selected. Using the landmark method to address immortal time bias, exposure was grouped into “metformin monotherapy initiation within 180 days after new diabetes diagnosis” or “no glucose‐lowering medications within 180 days.” To address disease latency, 1‐year lag time was applied to the end of the 180‐day landmark period. Incident dementia was defined using a validated algorithm for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) and confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated from propensity‐score weighted Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

Over mean follow‐up of 6.77 years from cohort entry, metformin initiation within 180 days after new diabetes diagnosis (N = 12,331; 978 events; 65,762 person‐years) showed no association with dementia risk (aHR [95% CI] = 1.05 [0.96–1.15]), compared to delayed or no glucose‐lowering medication initiation (N = 22,369; 1768 events; 117,415 person‐years).

Conclusion

Early metformin initiation was not associated with incident dementia in older adults newly diagnosed with diabetes. The utility of metformin to prevent dementia was not supported.
Lifestyle Entrepreneurship: Literature Review and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Ivanycheva Diana , Schulze William S. , Lundmark Erik , Chirico Francesco
Published: September 2023

Research in leading entrepreneurship and management journals has tended to conceptualize entrepreneurship as motivated by the goals of wealth, income, or social value creation. This research has thus largely overlooked entrepreneurial motivations such as the desire to engage in particular activities that the entrepreneurs find rewarding or the desire to live in particular locations. The literature on such Lifestyle Entrepreneurship (LE) includes research on artisan, artistic, craft, creative, fitness, hobbyist, leisure, sport, and tourism entrepreneurship. This literature has grown quickly over the last decade, but it is scattered across a range of domains, disciplines, and journals and lacks conceptual clarity. In this review, we take stock, synthesize and offer definitions and a framework for investigation of LE that allows for its development and theoretical integration with, and contribution to, existing entrepreneurship theory. We conceptualize LE in relation to its purpose and function, identify different types of LE, and examine their respective antecedents, behaviours, and outcomes. We propose a research agenda based on the merits of viewing LE as a distinctive and theoretically important domain for the study of entrepreneurship and highlight the vital role that LE plays in enriching both individual and social welfare.
Pre‐illness dietary risk factors in dogs with chronic enteropathy
Authors: Trewin Isla , Kathrani Aarti
Published: September 2023

Background

Dietary factors have been extensively studied as potential triggers of inflammatory bowel disease in humans. Scant literature exists regarding diet as a pre‐illness risk factor in dogs with chronic enteropathy (CE).

Hypothesis

To evaluate possible pre‐illness dietary risk factors in dogs with CE.

Animals

Ninety‐five client‐owned dogs; 48 with CE (25 presumptive and 23 confirmed) and 47 without a history of signs of gastrointestinal disease.

Methods

Retrospective case‐control questionnaire‐based study at a veterinary referral teaching hospital in the United Kingdom. Diet history was obtained relating to the onset of initial presenting signs for all dogs. The main diet consumed underwent ingredient analysis and caloric distribution calculation using a guaranteed analysis convertor software. Length of time the main diet was fed and adherence to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association Global Nutrition Committee guidelines was also recorded.

Results

The frequency of the main diet containing no carbohydrate was greater for controls (5/47 dogs, 11%) vs the combined presumptive and confirmed CE dogs (0/48 dogs, 0%; P = .05). Fewer dogs with confirmed CE were fed a main diet containing red meat as the primary protein source (2/23 dogs, 9%) vs controls (15/47 dogs, 32%; P = .03). A main diet moisture percentage of ≤14% as fed was significantly associated with confirmed CE in logistic regression analysis (OR 5.71 [95% CI: 1.18‐27.69]; P = .03).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The presence of dietary carbohydrate, protein source, and dietary moisture content, or factors related to moisture content such as preservatives, might play a role as potential pre‐illness dietary risk factors in dogs with CE.
Prevalence of cutaneous and mucosal lesions in dairy cattle admitted to a Canadian Veterinary Teaching Hospital from 2018 to 2019
Authors: Guarnieri Eloi , Sauvé Frédéric , Arsenault Julie , Francoz David
Published: September 2023

Background

The prevalence, anatomical distribution, or nature of cutaneous, hair and oral mucosal abnormalities (CHMAs) in cattle is uncertain.

Objectives

To determine how often dairy cattle admitted to a veterinary teaching hospital (VTH) had CHMAs (except for foot and ear canal) on physical examination and if there was an age‐related difference.

Animals

Four hundred and thirty‐three cattle: cattle <3 months (n = 85), cattle 3 to 24 months (n = 73), and cattle >24 months (n = 275).

Methods

In this descriptive, observational, prospective study, CHMAs of dairy cattle admitted to the VTH of the Université de Montréal were recorded over 1 year. Prevalences were calculated. Dermatological examinations were performed within 48 hours of admission, according to a glossary. Chi‐square tests were used to compare prevalence between age groups.

Results

The 433 cattle were mostly females (97.5%) and of the Holstein breed (89.8%). The prevalence of cattle <3 months presenting with at least 1 identifiable CHMA was 65% (55/85). In cattle 3 to 24 months old, it was 90% (66/73), and in cattle >24 months, it was 99.3% (273/275). There were significant differences (P < .001) between the prevalence of CHMAs localized on the ischia, ilia, stifles, hocks, carpi, flank, lateral neck, dorsal cervical, and cornual regions in cattle >24 months vs <3 months.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance.

CHMAs were highly prevalent and age‐specific. Calluses on the carpi and hocks of cattle >24 months were the most common CHMAs.
Assessment of out‐of‐plane structural defects using parallel laser line scanning system
Authors: Li Chaobin , Su Ray Kai Leung , Pan Xiao
Published: September 2023

A precise parallel laser line scanning system has been developed to assess the depth of out‐of‐plane structural defects on concrete surfaces. This system comprises a digital camera, dual line laser diodes, and positioning rigid arms that create a triangulation‐based setup. Laser lines are distorted when projected onto an out‐of‐plane defect. A new image processing algorithm has been devised to extract depth information from the distorted laser strips. Parallel laser lines are used to ensure that imaged laser strips do not intersect, thereby simplifying the depth assessment of defects at different distances and enabling the generation of defect profiles from a single image. The system has been validated through laboratory and field tests, demonstrating its effectiveness and accuracy. Compared to other noncontact measurement techniques, this system stands out due to its simplicity, cost‐effectiveness, efficiency, and superior accuracy for long‐range measurements, rendering it suitable for on‐site scanning of textureless uneven engineering objects.
Higher‐order evidence and the duty to double‐check
Authors: Palmira Michele
Published: September 2023

The paper proposes an account of the rational response to higher‐order evidence whose key claim is that whenever we acquire such evidence we ought to engage in the inquiring activity of double‐checking. Combined with a principle that establishes a connection between rational inquiry and rational belief retention, the account offers a novel explanation of the alleged impermissibility of retaining one's belief in the face of higher‐order evidence. It is argued that this explanation is superior to the main competitor view which appeals to the notion of defeat.
Machine learning applications to personnel selection: Current illustrations, lessons learned, and future research
Authors: Campion Michael A. , Campion Emily D.
Published: September 2023

Machine learning (ML) may be the biggest innovative force in personnel selection since the invention of employment tests. As such, the purpose of this special issue was to draw out research from applied settings to supplement the work that appeared in academic journals. In this overview article, we aim to complement the special issue in five ways: (1) provide a brief tutorial on some ML concepts and illustrate the potential applications in selection, along with their strengths and weaknesses; (2) summarize findings of the four articles in the special issue and provide an independent appraisal of the strength of the evidence; (3) identify some of the less‐obvious lessons learned and other insights that researchers new to ML might not clearly recognize from reading the special issue; (4) present best practices at this stage of the knowledge in selection; and (5) propose recommendations for future needed research based on the articles in the special issue and the current state of the science.
Parent and healthcare provider views of live varicella vaccination of pediatric solid organ transplant recipients
Authors: Condran Brian , Kervin Melissa , Burton Catherine , Blydt‐Hansen Tom D , Morris Shaun K. , Sadarangani Manish , Otley Anthony , Yong Elaine , Mitchell Hana , Bettinger Julie A. , Top Karina A. ,   the Special Immunization Clinic Network Investigators
Published: September 2023

Background

Live attenuated varicella vaccine (LAVV) has historically been contraindicated in children who are immunocompromised due to solid organ transplant (SOT) because of safety concerns. Recently, clinical guidelines were developed that support post‐transplant varicella vaccination in selected SOT recipients based on emerging evidence of LAVV safety. This qualitative study sought to explore barriers and facilitators to implementing the new guidelines, as well as acceptability of LAVV among healthcare providers (HCPs) and parents.

Methods

HCPs and parents of transplant recipients were recruited from four sites using purposive sampling. Data from semi‐structured interviews were analyzed using an Interpretive Description approach that incorporated data from the interviews, academic knowledge and clinical experience, and drew from Grounded Theory and Thematic Analysis. The theoretical framework used was Adaptive Leadership.

Results

Thirty‐four participants (16 HCPs and 18 parents) were included in the analysis. Parents developed skills in adaptive leadership that included strategies to protect their child against infectious diseases. Foundational information that live vaccines were absolutely contraindicated post‐transplant “stuck” with parents and led them to develop strategies other than vaccination to keep their child safe. Some parents struggled to understand that information previously presented as a certainty (contraindication of LAVV) could change. Their approach to adaptive leadership informed their appraisal of the new vaccination guidelines and willingness to accept vaccination.

Conclusions

HCPs should adopt a family‐centered approach to communicating changing guidelines that considers parents' approach to adaptive leadership and discusses the changing nature of medical evidence. Trust between HCPs and parents can facilitate these conversations.
Transcriptomics integrated with metabolomics to characterize key pigment compounds and genes related to anthocyanin biosynthesis in Zanthoxylum bungeanum peel
Authors: Han Nuan , Sun Leiwen , Zhang Jie , Yuan Wei , Wang Cheng , Zhao Aiguo , Wang Dongmei
Published: September 2023

Zanthoxylum bungeanum is an important condiment with high economic value and its peel color is one of the main quality indexes. However, the key pigment compounds and related genes are still unclear affecting the quality control of the plants. In this study, the contents of four types of pigments were measured in Z. bungeanum and flavonoids were identified as the most important pigments. Based on the targeted flavonoid metabolomics of Z. bungeanum peels, 14 key pigment compounds were screened out from 152 flavonoids, among which cyanidin‐3‐O‐rutinoside and cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside were the most critical compounds for peel color. They were further verified to be present in nine varieties of Z. bungeanum by HPLC fingerprints. The 14 compounds were all associated with flavonoid and anthocyanin biosynthesis pathways and the 39 differentially expressed genes related to these pathways were annotated and screened based on transcriptomics. The genes ZbDFR, ZbANS, and ZbUFGT were identified as three key genes for anthocyanin synthesis in Z. bungeanum peels. Further qRT‐PCR results confirmed the reliability of transcriptomics and the accuracy of gene screening. Subsequent protein induced expression demonstrated that ZbANS and ZbUFGT were expressed after 12 h induced by IPTG while ZbDFR was expressed after 15 h. Further transient and stable transformation analysis confirmed that both anthocyanin content and the expression of ZbDFR were significantly increased in overexpression Z. bungeanum leaves and Nicotiana benthamiana. The functional effect of stable transformation of ZbDFR was more significant than that of transient transformation with a 7.67‐fold/1.49‐fold difference in total anthocyanin content and a 42.37‐fold/12.32‐fold difference in the expression of ZbDFR. This study provides new insights into the chemical composition and the molecular mechanisms of Z. bungeanum peel color and lays an effective foundation for the color quality control, multi‐purpose utilization of Z. bungeanum and the creation of new germplasm.
B2O3 nanoparticles alleviate salt stress in maize leaf growth zones by enhancing photosynthesis and maintaining mineral and redox status
Authors: El‐Shafey Nadia Mohamed , Avramova Viktoriya , Beemster Gerrit T. S. , Korany Shereen Magdy , AbdElgawad Hamada
Published: September 2023

Salt stress induces significant loss in crop yield worldwide. Although the growth‐stimulating effects of micronutrient nanoparticles (NPs) application under salinity have been studied, the molecular and biochemical mechanisms underlying these effects are poorly understood. The large size of maize leaf growth zones provides an ideal model system to sample and investigate the molecular and physiological bases of growth at subzonal resolution. Using kinematic analysis, our study indicated that salinity at 150 mM inhibited maize leaf growth by decreasing cell division and expansion in the meristem and elongation zones. Consistently, salinity downregulated cell cycle gene expression (wee1, mcm4, and cyclin‐B2‐4). B2O3 NP (BNP) mitigated the stress‐induced growth inhibition by reducing the decrease in cell division and expansion. BNP also enhanced the photosynthesis‐related parameters. Simultaneously, chlorophyll, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase and ribulose‐1,5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase were stimulated in the mature zone. Concomitant with growth stimulation by BNP, mineral homeostasis, particularly for B and Ca, was monitored. BNP reduced oxidative stress (e.g., lessened H2O2 generation along the leaf zones and reduced lipid peroxidation in the mature zone) induced by salinity. This resulted from better maintenance of the redox status, that is, increased the glutathione‐ascorbate cycle in the meristem and elongation zones, and flavonoids and tocopherol levels in the mature zone. Our study has important implications for assessing the salinity stress impact mitigated by BNP on maize growth, providing a basis to improve the resilience of crop species under salinity stress conditions.
Evaluation of sexed semen‐based artificial insemination in Tharparkar cattle under organized farm condition
Authors: Patra Manas Kumar , Sasidharan Jisna Kuttiyeri , Rajput Atul Singh , Sharma Renu , Reza Md Rehan Ahmad , Das Goutam Kumar , Tomar Atul Kumar Singh , Ghosh Subrata Kumar , Gaur Gyanendra Kumar
Published: September 2023

Sexed semen facilitates additional female calf production for the expansion of a herd at a faster rate and also curtails the surplus production of unwanted male calves. A study was conducted to evaluate the performance of sexed semen in indigenous Tharparkar cows based on 114 artificial inseminations (AI) performed at natural oestrus using two protocols i.e., single AI (n = 48) and double AI (n = 66). Overall, the first service conception rate (CR) was significantly higher in double (53.0%) than single (33.3%) AI protocol. The odds ratio of conception rate in double AI was 2.26 (χ2 = 4.4, df = 1, p = .04) with respect to single AI. The time that elapsed since the detection of oestrus to insemination was also analysed. In a single AI protocol, the CR was higher (p < .05) at 16 h (54.6%) than insemination at 8 h (27.0%) following the onset of oestrus. Yet, the CR using double AI protocol did not differ (p = .73) significantly when AIs were performed either at 8 h and 24 h (51.9%) or 16 h and 24 h (57.1%) post onset of oestrus. Besides, like the single AI protocol, the parity of the animals also influenced the CR, being higher in heifers (n = 22) than those of parous (n = 92) cows (72.73 vs. 40.43%, χ2 = 7.48, df = 1, p = .006) in the present study. The odds ratio of conception in heifers was 3.93 with respect to parous cows. Overall, the birth of female calf was 91.7%. In conclusion, the present study indicates a future promise of the sexed semen for the production of more female offspring from Tharparkar cattle.
Early warning systems and end‐user decision‐making: A risk formalism tool to aid communication and understanding
Authors: de Elía Ramón , Ruiz Juan José , Francce Verónica , Lohigorry Pedro , Saucedo Marcos , Menalled Matías , D'Amen Daniela
Published: September 2023

In this work, we introduce a formalism to highlight the role of decision‐making implicit in the setup of early warning systems (EWSs) and its consequences with respect to loss avoidance for end users. The formalism, a close relative of the cost/loss approach, combines EWS verification scores with traditional expressions of risk from the point of view of the user. This formalism articulates in mathematical format many well‐known issues surrounding EWS usage, offering a conceptual anchor for concepts that otherwise may seem to wobble among the multidisciplinary perspectives participating in the EWS chain.

This decision model is visually represented in a variation of the popular “performance diagram” used in forecast and warning verification. Our diagram adds to this the perspective of a generic user, in an effort to gain insight into how choices made regarding EWS settings may determine which users benefit from warnings and which do not. Although these results are based on a conceptual model, they are useful to better understand the actual benefits experienced by users and to highlight aspects that may temper unrealistic expectations on EWSs.

The recent United Nations initiative to extend EWSs for natural hazards to all nations within 5 years will make EWSs more common and more public. The approach proposed here can be a tool to promote greater transparency and improve the necessary dialog between warning issuers and users in order to reduce loss.
Risk prediction models for cardiovascular events in hemodialysis patients: A systematic review
Authors: Gan Tiantian , Guan Hua , Li Pengli , Huang Xinping , Li Yue , Zhang Rui , Li Tingxin
Published: September 2023

Objective

To perform a systematic review of risk prediction models for cardiovascular (CV) events in hemodialysis (HD) patients, and provide a reference for the application and optimization of related prediction models.

Methods

PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched from inception to 1 February 2023. Two authors independently conducted the literature search, selection, and screening. The Prediction model Risk Of Bias Assessment Tool (PROBAST) was applied to evaluate the risk of bias and applicability of the included literature.

Results

A total of nine studies containing 12 models were included, with performance measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) lying between 0.70 and 0.88. Age, diabetes mellitus (DM), C‐reactive protein (CRP), and albumin (ALB) were the most commonly identified predictors of CV events in HD patients. While the included models demonstrated good applicability, there were still certain risks of bias, primarily related to inadequate handling of missing data and transformation of continuous variables, as well as a lack of model performance validation.

Conclusion

The included models showed good overall predictive performance and can assist healthcare professionals in the early identification of high‐risk individuals for CV events in HD patients. In the future, the modeling methods should be improved, or the existing models should undergo external validation to provide better guidance for clinical practice.
Rising concentration and wage inequality
Authors: Cortes Guido Matias , Tschopp Jeanne
Published: September 2023

Wage inequality has risen in many countries over recent decades. At the same time, production has become increasingly concentrated in a small number of firms. In this paper, we show that these two phenomena are linked. Theoretically, we show that an increase in consumer price sensitivity will lead to an increase in the sectoral concentration of revenues and employment, as well as an increase in wage dispersion between firms within industries. Empirically, we use industry‐level data from 14 European countries over the period 1999–2016 and show robust evidence of a positive and statistically significant correlation between concentration and between‐firm wage inequality. We show that this is driven by higher market shares and higher wages in high‐productivity firms within more concentrated sectors.
Fluoroquinolone prophylaxis in patients with neutropenia at high risk of serious infections: Exploring pros and cons
Authors: Singh Nikhil , Thursky Karin , Maron Gabriela , Wolf Joshua
Published: September 2023

Background

The use of fluoroquinolones to prevent infections in neutropenic patients with cancer or undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a controversial issue, with international guidelines providing conflicting recommendations. Although potential benefits are clear, concerns revolve around efficacy, potential harms, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) implications.

Discussion

Fluoroquinolone prophylaxis reduces neutropenic fever (NF) bloodstream infections and other serious bacterial infections, based on evidence from systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, and observational studies in adults and children. Fluoroquinolone prophylaxis may also reduce infection‐related morbidity and healthcare costs; however, evidence is conflicting. Adverse effects of fluoroquinolones are well recognized in the general population; however, studies in the cancer cohort where it is used for a defined period of neutropenia have not reflected this. The largest concern for routine use of fluoroquinolone prophylaxis remains AMR, as many, but not all, observational studies have found that fluoroquinolone prophylaxis might increase the risk of AMR, and some studies have suggested negative impacts on patient outcomes as a result.

Conclusions

The debate surrounding fluoroquinolone prophylaxis calls for individualized risk assessment based on patient characteristics and local AMR patterns, and prophylaxis should be restricted to patients at the highest risk of serious infection during the highest risk periods to ensure that the risk‐benefit analysis is in favor of individual and community benefit. More research is needed to address important unanswered questions about fluoroquinolone prophylaxis in neutropenic patients with cancer or receiving HSCT.
In vitro evaluation of the effect of tris‐EDTA and 0.0005% chlorhexidine solution on the strength of two absorbable sutures
Authors: Brandly Jerrianne E. , Levine David G. , Stefanovski Darko , Aitken Maia R.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To determine the effect of 0.0005% chlorhexidine and tris‐EDTA solution on the strength of three commonly used suture types for closure of equine ventral midline celiotomy.

Study design

Controlled laboratory study.

Sample population

Knotted loops (n = 10/group, 150 knot constructs total).

Methods

Strands of 2 polyglactin 910, 3 polyglactin 910, and 2 polydioxanone were tied to form knotted loops. All knotted loops were mounted on a tabletop force measurement machine system and loaded at 100 mm/min until the breaking force (N) was determined. The breaking force (N) of knotted loops using dry suture was recorded at study start, then of knotted loops soaked in either 0.0005% chlorhexidine and tris‐EDTA for 20 min followed by incubation in equine serum (treatment) or serum alone (control) for 14 and 21 days. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) compared the breaking force between the treatment and control groups at each time point.

Results

There was no significant difference in the breaking force of 2 USP polyglactin 910 (p = .35, confidence interval [CI] = −0.21–0.59), 3 USP polyglactin 910 (p = .61, CI = −0.41–0.24), or 2 USP polydioxanone (p = .76, CI = −0.63–0.46) soaked in 0.0005% chlorhexidine and tris‐EDTA solution followed by equine serum when compared to each respective suture soaked in equine serum only.

Conclusion/clinical significance

Since 0.0005% chlorhexidine and tris‐EDTA solution did not exhibit a significant effect on the breaking force of the absorbable sutures studied, the solution may be used for incisional lavage in the clinical setting.
Origin of endemic species in a moderately isolated ancient lake: The case of a snakehead in Inle Lake, Myanmar
Authors: Fuke Yusuke , Musikasinthorn Prachya , Kano Yuichi , Tabata Ryoichi , Matsui Shoko , Tun Sein , Yun L. K. C. , Touch Bunthang , Thach Phanara , Watanabe Katsutoshi
Published: September 2023

Inle Lake is an ancient lake in Myanmar, which is an important area with unique and diverse fauna. Its ichthyofauna is believed to have formed non‐radiatively, but the historical processes are poorly understood. To elucidate the mechanisms that shape species diversity in this moderately isolated biogeographical ‘island’, this study focused on a typical endemic fish of Inle Lake, Channa harcourtbutleri (Channidae, Anabantiformes), with its widely distributed sister species, C. limbata, and estimated the historical distribution and diversification processes of the endemic fish based on genome‐wide polymorphism (MIG‐seq) and mitochondrial DNA data. Channa harcourtbutleri contained two genetically and morphologically distinct groups inhabiting Inle Lake and the surrounding rivers respectively. These two groups were genetically the closest to each other; however, the riverine group showed some similarity to the closely related species, C. limbata from Southeast Asia. The mtDNA haplotypes of the endemic species were not monophyletic; most of the riverine group had haplotypes identical or close to those of C. limbata from the upper Irrawaddy and Salween rivers. The time tree suggested that C. harcourtbutleri diverged from C. limbata in the early Pleistocene and then experienced secondary contact with C. limbata in the late Pleistocene. Genetic and morphological differentiation within C. harcourtbutleri suggests that local adaptation to different environments has played an important role for the coexistence of its two forms with some reproductive isolation. Further, the results highlight the importance of multiple colonization and allopatric speciation in shaping biodiversity in the long‐term, moderately isolated environments.