bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of season length and uniparental care efficacy on the evolution of parental care
Authors: Zheng Jia , Komdeur Jan , Weissing Franz J.
Published: June 2023

Parental care patterns differ enormously among and even within species. This is exemplified by Chinese penduline tits Remiz consobrinus, where biparental care, female‐only care, male‐only care and biparental desertion all occur in the same population; moreover, the distribution of these care patterns differs systematically between populations. The eco‐evolutionary determinants of this diversity are largely unknown.

We developed an individual‐based model that allows us to investigate the effects of season length and offspring needs (expressed by the efficacy with which a clutch can be raised by a single parent) on the evolution of parental care patterns. The model is largely conceptual, aiming at general conclusions. However, to keep the model realistic, its set‐up and the choice of parameters are motivated by field studies on Chinese penduline tits. Exploring a wide range of parameters, we investigate how parental care patterns are affected by season length and offspring needs and whether and under what conditions diverse parental care patterns can stably coexist.

We report five main findings. First, under a broad range of conditions, different care patterns (e.g. male care and biparental care) coexist at equilibrium. Second, for the same parameters, alternative evolutionary equilibria are possible; this can explain differences in care patterns across populations. Third, rapid evolutionary transitions can occur between alternative equilibria; this can explain the often‐reported evolutionary lability of parental care patterns. Fourth, season length has a strong but nonmonotonic effect on the evolved care patterns. Fifth, when uniparental care efficacy is low, biparental care tends to evolve; however, in many scenarios uniparental care is still common at equilibrium. In addition, our study sheds new light on Trivers' hypothesis that the sex with the highest prezygotic investment is predestined to invest more postzygotically as well.

Our study highlights that diversity in parental care can readily evolve and it shows that even in the absence of environmental change parental care patterns can be evolutionary labile. In the presence of directional environmental change, systematic shifts in care patterns are to be expected.
Can Employment Empower Women in Rural India*
Authors: Bhattacharjee Ayona , Dubey Jay Dev
Published: June 2023

The literature on women empowerment highlights a positive correlation between work and decision‐making power of women within families. On the contrary, the role of work opportunities in letting women achieve greater control over their lives, making them more independent is also well‐established. In this background, we explore the effect of women employment on different dimensions of women empowerment by using a nationally representative household survey data, the Indian Human Development Survey (IHDS‐II, 2011–12). As “empowerment” is unobservable, multi‐faceted and difficult to quantify, we model it by an index which aggregates the qualitative answers provided by a respondent. Due to the presence of an endogenous relation, we exploit sources of exogenous variations in employment through an instrumental variable (IV) setup. Following the literature, we identify IV as the level of transport infrastructure in the region where a woman resides. We find that the estimated coefficients are positive and statistically significant, remaining robust to changes in empowerment calculation. In the context of public initiatives aimed at improving female labour force participation and empowering women in India, our results show how policymakers can look beyond standard policies and take the help of transport‐related initiatives to improve employment and empowerment.
Evolution of concomitant use of veno‐arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support with Impella in cardiogenic shock: From percutaneous femoral Impella to axillary Impella 5.5
Authors: Isath Ameesh , Ohira Suguru , Levine Avi , Lanier Gregg M. , Pan Stephen , Aggarwal‐Gupta Chhaya , Mason Ian , Gregory Vasiliki , Spielvogel David , Gass Alan L. , Kai Masashi
Published: June 2023

Background

Little is known about safety and efficacy of the use of Impella 5.5 compared to previous iterations in the setting of Impella with Veno‐Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support as ECPELLA.

Methods

Consecutive patients who were treated by ECPELLA with surgically implanted axillary Impella 5.5 (N = 13) were compared with patients supported by ECPELLA with percutaneous femoral Impella CP or 2.5 (Control, N = 13).

Results

The total ECPELLA flow was higher in ECPELLA 5.5 group (6.9 vs. 5.4 L/min, p = 0.019). Actual hospital survival was higher than predicted and comparable in both groups (ECPELLA 5.5, 61.5% vs. Control, 53.8%, p = 0.691). Both total device complications (ECPELLA 5.5, 7.7% vs. Control, 46.1%, p = 0.021) and Impella‐specific complications (ECPELLA 5.5, 0% vs. Control, 30.8%, p = 0.012) were significantly lower in the ECPELLA 5.5 group.

Conclusions

Utilization of Impella 5.5 in the setting of ECPELLA provides greater hemodynamic support with a lower risk of complications compared to Impella CP or 2.5.
Nonmass‐forming type anorectal cancer with pagetoid spread: A report of two cases
Authors: Yamamoto Masahiro , Mizuuchi Yusuke , Tamura Koji , Sada Masafumi , Nagayoshi Kinuko , Nakata Kohei , Ohuchida Kenoki , Oda Yoshinao , Nakamura Masafumi
Published: June 2023

Pagetoid spread (PS) of anorectal cancer is relatively rare and associated with poor prognosis. While a primary tumorous lesion is usually obvious in most PS cases, we experienced two cases of nonmass‐forming type anorectal cancer with PS. It remains challenging to decide strategies. In both cases, histological findings of a perianal skin biopsy showed proliferation of atypical cells that were positive for cytokeratin (CK) 7, CK20, and caudal type homeobox 2 and negative for Gross cystic disease fluid protein 15, suggesting PS. Abdominoperineal resection (APR) with extensive anal skin resection was performed in both patients. The pathological diagnosis in each was nonmass‐forming type anorectal cancer with PS. Neither has experienced recurrence in postoperative courses. Even nonmass‐forming type anorectal cancer with PS could have high malignant potentials. APR with lymph nodes dissection and wide skin excision and regular surveillance might be necessary.
Response adaptive salvage with KTd and ASCT for functional high‐risk multiple myeloma—The Australasian Leukemia and Lymphoma Group (ALLG) MM17 Trial
Authors: Turner R. , Quach H. , Horvath N. , Kerridge I. , Lee E. , Morris E. , Kalff A. , Khong T. , Reynolds J. , Spencer A.
Published: June 2023

We evaluated re‐induction incorporating carfilzomib–thalidomide–dexamethasone (KTd) and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) refractory, or demonstrating a suboptimal response, to non‐IMID bortezomib‐based induction. KTd salvage consisted of thalidomide 100 mg daily and dexamethasone 20 mg orally combined with carfilzomib 56 mg/m2 days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16, of each 28‐day cycle. Following four cycles, patients achieving a stringent complete response proceeded to ASCT whereas those who did not received a further two cycles then ASCT. Consolidation consisted of two cycles of KTd then Td to a total of 12 months post‐ASCT therapy. Primary end‐point was the overall response rate (ORR) with KTd prior to ASCT. Fifty patients were recruited. The ORR was 78% with EuroFlow MRD negativity of 34% in the intention‐to‐treat population and 65% in the evaluable population at 12 months post‐ASCT. With follow‐up >38 months median PFS and OS have not been reached with PFS and OS at 36 months of 64% and 80%, respectively. KTd was well tolerated with grade 3 and grade ≥4 adverse events rates of 32% and 10%, respectively. Response adaptive utilisation of KTd with ASCT is associated with both high‐quality responses and durable disease control in functional high‐risk NDMM.
Spending reviews and the Government of Canada: From episodic to institutionalized capabilities and repertoires
Authors: Lindquist Evert A. , Shepherd Robert P.
Published: June 2023

Following surges of spending and staff hiring to address the COVID‐19 pandemic, the Trudeau government announced a strategic policy review in the 2022 Budget to secure savings of $6 billion. There has been little apparent progress by May 2023 and opaque communications. This is surprising because Canada was once considered an international exemplar for spending reviews, needs to learn from the pandemic experience, has a worrisome medium‐to‐long‐term federal spending trajectory, and the governance and economic context has rapidly evolved. This article identifies different kinds of spending reviews and design considerations, reviews Canada's experience with reviews since the early 1980s, considers recent OECD experience and exemplars, and argues that its spending reviews have become increasingly selective and closed. We suggest the Canadian government should institutionalize annual spending reviews, which can be scaled up or down, and that this points to more fundamental issues for reform and building a new governance culture.
Evaluating a unique enhanced recovery protocol in laparoscopic donor nephrectomy: A single center experience
Authors: Atherton Samuel W. , Massey Michael S. , Nguyen Tho , Wang David W. , Subramaniam Kathirvel , Abdelwahid Eman , Bahnaswy Ahmed , Trostler Michael S. , Lombardero Manuel , Planinsic Raymond , Abuelkasem Ezeldeen
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have been associated with a reduction in opioid consumption and a hastening in recovery in abdominal surgery. However, their impact on laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) has not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study is to evaluate opioid consumption and other relevant outcome measures before and after implementation of a unique LDN ERAS protocol.

Methods

244 LDN patients were included in this retrospective cohort study. Forty‐six underwent LDN prior to implementation of ERAS, whereas 198 patients received ERAS perioperative care. The primary outcome was daily oral morphine equivalent (OME) consumption averaged over the entire postoperative stay. Due to removal of preoperative oral morphine from the protocol partway through the study period, the ERAS group was further subdivided into morphine recipients and non‐recipients for subgroup analysis. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), length of stay, pain scores, and other relevant measures.

Results

ERAS donors consumed significantly fewer average daily OMEs than Pre‐ERAS donors (21.5 vs. 37.6, respectively; p < .0001). There were no statistically significant differences in OME consumption between morphine recipients and non‐recipients. The ERAS group experienced less PONV (44.4% requiring one or more rescue antiemetic postoperatively, vs. 60.9% of Pre‐ERAS donors; p = .008).

Conclusions

A protocol pairing lidocaine and ketamine with a comprehensive approach to preoperative PO intake, premedication, intraoperative fluid management and postoperative pain control is associated with reduced opioid consumption in LDN.
Left atrial functional measurements’ utility in predicting long‐term risk of atrial fibrillation after isolated CABG
Authors: Dyhr Mikkel Ravn , Olsen Flemming Javier , Lindberg Søren , Modin Daniel , Fritz‐Hansen Thomas , Pedersen Sune , Iversen Allan , Galatius Søren , Jespersen Thomas , Møgelvang Rasmus , Biering‐Sørensen Tor
Published: June 2023

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). We hypothesized that measures of left atrial (LA) function would be useful in predicting AF in patients undergoing CABG.

Methods and results

In the study, 611 patients were included after CABG. All patients had echocardiograms performed preoperatively and LA functional measurements were assessed. These measurements were LA maximum volume index (LAVmax), LA minimum volume index (LAVmin) and LA emptying fraction (LAEF). The endpoint was AF occurring >14 days after surgery.

During the follow‐up period of a median of 3.7 years, 52 (9%) developed AF. The mean age was 67 years, 84% were male and the average left ventricle ejection fraction was 50%. Patients who developed AF had a lower CCS class and lower LAEF (40 vs. 45%), otherwise no clinical differences were observed between outcome groups. No functional LA measurements were significant predictors of AF in the whole CABG population. However, in patients with normal‐sized LA (n = 532, events: 49), both LAEF and LAVmin were univariable predictors of AF. When the functional measurements were adjusted for the CHADS2 score, both LAVmin (HR = 1.07 [1.01‐1.13], p = .014) and LAEF (HR: 1.02 [1.00‐1.03], p = .023), remained significant predictors.

Conclusion

No echocardiographic measurements were significant predictors of AF after CABG. In patients with a normal LA size, LAVmin as well as LAEF were significant predictors of AF.
Susceptibility of silver birch and black alder to several Phytophthora species isolated from soils in declining broadleaf forests in western Ukraine
Authors: Matsiakh Iryna , López‐García Noelia , Kacprzyk Magdalena , Cleary Michelle
Published: June 2023

In declining broadleaf forests in western Ukraine, several Phytophthora species including P. plurivora, P. bilorbang, P. polonica, P. gonapodyides and P. cactorum were recovered using soil baiting assays and identified using morphological and molecular methods. Pathogenicity tests of selected isolates were performed on black alder (Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaerth.) and silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.) to assess susceptibility of these two tree species to the newly detected Phytophthora species. Phytophthora plurivora, P. bilorbang and P. polonica showed higher pathogenicity in both alder and birch compared to the other tested Phytophthora species.
The northernmost plant pathogenic fungus, Rhytisma arcticum sp. nov.: Morphological and molecular characterization of a novel species from Ellesmere Island, Canada
Authors: Masumoto Shota
Published: June 2023

A novel fungal pathogen, Rhytisma arcticum, is described, causing tar spot disease on Salix arctica in Ellesmere Island, Canada. Stromata, asci and ascospores—distinctly smaller than other Rhytisma species found on Salix—are its distinctive morphological features. rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large‐subunit (LSU) sequence analyses revealed a close relation of this species to R. polare previously reported on Spitsbergen Island. This study describes a novel plant pathogen species in one of the northernmost locations of the world.
Hierarchical Agglomerative Clustering to Detect Test Collusion on Computer‐Based Tests
Authors: Ingrisone Soo Jeong , Ingrisone James N.
Published: June 2023

There has been a growing interest in approaches based on machine learning (ML) for detecting test collusion as an alternative to the traditional methods. Clustering analysis under an unsupervised learning technique appears especially promising to detect group collusion. In this study, the effectiveness of hierarchical agglomerative clustering (HAC) for detecting aberrant test takers on Computer‐Based Testing (CBT) is explored. Random forest ensembles are used to evaluate the accuracy of the clustering and find the important features to classify the aberrant test takers. Testing data from a certification exam is used. The level of overlap between the exact response matches on incorrectly keyed items in the exam preparation material and HAC are compared. Integrating HAC as an investigation mean is promising in this field to improve the accuracy of classification of aberrant test takers.
Clinically relevant increases in serum neurofilament light chain and glial fibrillary acidic protein in patients with Susac syndrome
Authors: Plantone Domenico , Sabatelli Eleonora , Locci Sara , Marrodan Mariano , Laakso Sini M. , Mateen Farrah J. , Feresiadou Amalia , Buelens Tom , Bianco Assunta , Fiol Marcela P. , Correale Jorge , Tienari Pentti , Calabresi Paolo , De Stefano Nicola , Iorio Raffaele
Published: June 2023

Background and purpose

Serum levels of neurofilament light chain (sNfL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (sGFAP) are promising neuro‐axonal damage and astrocytic activation biomarkers. Susac syndrome (SS) is an increasingly recognized neurological condition and biomarkers that can help assess and monitor disease evolution are highly needed for the adequate management of these patients. sNfL and sGFAP levels were evaluated in patients with SS and their clinical relevance in the relapse and remission phase of the disease was assessed.

Methods

As part of a multicentre study that enrolled patients diagnosed with SS from six international centres, sNfL and sGFAP levels were assessed in 22 SS patients (nine during a relapse and 13 in remission) and 59 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls using SimoaTM assay Neurology 2‐Plex B Kit.

Results

Serum NfL levels were higher than those of healthy controls (p < 0.001) in SS patients and in both subgroups of patients in relapse and in remission (p < 0.001 for both), with significantly higher levels in relapse than in remission (p = 0.008). sNfL levels showed a negative correlation with time from the last relapse (r = −0.663; p = 0.001). sGFAP levels were slightly higher in the whole group of patients than in healthy controls (p = 0.046) and were more pronounced in relapse than in remission (p = 0.013).

Conclusion

In SS patients, both sNFL and sGFAP levels increased compared with healthy controls. Both biomarkers had higher levels during clinical relapse and much lower levels in remission. sNFL was shown to be time sensitive to clinical changes and can be useful to monitor neuro‐axonal damage in SS.
Intermittent vs continuous ketogenic diet: Impact on seizures, gut microbiota, and mitochondrial metabolism
Authors: Shearer Jane , Scantlebury Morris H. , Rho Jong M. , Tompkins Thomas A. , Mu Chunlong
Published: June 2023

We have shown previously that the ketogenic diet (KD) is effective in reducing seizures associated with infantile spasms syndrome (ISS) and that this benefit is related to alterations in the gut microbiota. However, it remains unclear whether the efficacy of the KD persists after switching to a normal diet. Employing a neonatal rat model of ISS, we tested the hypothesis that the impact of the KD would diminish when switched to a normal diet. Following epilepsy induction, neonatal rats were divided into two groups: continuous KD for 6 days; and a group fed with KD for 3 days and then a normal diet for 3 days. Spasms frequency, mitochondrial bioenergetics in the hippocampus, and fecal microbiota were evaluated as major readouts. We found that the anti‐epileptic effect of the KD was reversible, as evidenced by the increased spasms frequency in rats that were switched from the KD to a normal diet. The spasms frequency was correlated inversely with mitochondrial bioenergetic function and a set of gut microbes, including Streptococcus thermophilus and Streptococcus azizii. These findings suggest that the anti‐epileptic and metabolic benefits of the KD decline rapidly in concert with gut microbial alterations in the ISS model.
Diverse strategies for tracking seasonal environmental niches at hemispheric scale
Authors: Cohen Jeremy , Jetz Walter
Published: June 2023

Aim

Species depend upon a constrained set of environmental conditions, or environmental niches, for survival and reproduction that are being increasingly perturbed or lost under rapid climatic change. Seasonal environments, which require species to withstand shifting conditions or track their niches via movement, can offer an important system to study the range of biological responses to potentially cope with climate change. Here, we develop a novel methodological framework to identify niche‐tracking strategies, including the tracking of niche position and breadth, using a uniquely well‐sampled system of 619 New World bird species.

Location

Western Hemisphere.

Time period

1980–2020.

Major taxa studied

Birds (Aves).

Methods

At continental scales, we identify the tracking of both environmental niche position and breadth and assess its phylogenetic and functional underpinning. Partitioning niche position and breadth tracking can inform whether climatic means or extremes constrain seasonal niches.

Results

We uncover four primary niche‐tracking strategies, including the tracking of environmental niche position, niche breadth, both or neither. Species that track niche position most often also track niche breadth, but nearly 40% only track one component and 26% only track niche breadth and not position. There is only limited phylogenetic determinism to this variation, but a strong association with ecological and functional attributes that differs between niche position versus niche breadth tracking.

Main conclusions

The observed diversity in type and strength of environmental niche‐tracking strategies points to highly differing sensitivity to ongoing climatic change, with narrow trackers of both position and breadth particularly susceptible. The trait associations of niche tracking imply significant functional consequences for communities and ecosystems as impending climate change affects some strategies more strongly than others. Seasonal environments and their diversity of niche‐tracking strategies offer exceptionally dynamic systems for understanding the biological responses and consequences of climate change.
Family members' perspectives of hope when supporting a relative experiencing mental health problems
Authors: McCarthy Joan , Higgins Agnes , McCarthy Bridie , Flynn Angela V. , Gijbels Harry
Published: June 2023

Current research views hope as a process that plays a positive role in the recovery of individuals with mental health problems. However, little attention has been given to the role of hope in the lives of their families. We aimed to address that gap. We deployed a qualitative descriptive design and carried out individual interviews with nine family members who supported a relative with mental health problems. A cross‐comparison of the data generated three major themes: understandings of hope; factors that diminish hope and factors that nurture hope. The participants viewed hope as a positive and productive feeling or attitude that was life‐affirming, and empowering. They also associated it with behaviours and dispositions such as attentiveness and empathy and the possibility of a return to a more stable and ‘normal’ life. The participants experienced hope as initially eroded when their relative was first diagnosed and institutionalized. Hope was further diminished due to the poor communication practices of some mental health professionals and the stress of the caring role itself. On the other hand, hope was nurtured through the support of other family members, friends, neighbours and peers. Acquiring knowledge and understanding about the relative's state of mental health nurtured hope and enabled the participants to have a more meaningful role in their recovery process. Practices of self‐care such as independent activities and counselling also strengthened hope and some mental health professionals played a positive role in supporting these. Most striking about the reports of many of the participants was their assertion of their abiding love for their relative. Their account of their ability to see beyond the illness of their relative was an insight that we did not find in other accounts of the experiences of family members. We highlight the need for family members to have timely access to relevant information about their relatives' illness. We conclude that hope is relational at its core because of the interplay of intrapersonal, interpersonal and social factors that diminish or nurture it over time. Specifically, we propose that friends, neighbours and peer support groups as key actors in nurturing the hope of both family members and their relatives.
Factors associated with attitudes of mental health nurses towards the importance of families in mental health nursing care
Authors: Hsiao Chiu‐Yueh , Lu Huei‐Lan , Chiu Chin‐Kuai , Tsai Yun‐Fang
Published: June 2023

Family involvement in mental healthcare is a key ingredient in the recovery of patients with mental illness. Research on the attitudes of mental health nurses regarding family involvement in mental healthcare remains limited. This study aimed to examine factors that affect the attitudes of mental health nurses towards the importance of family involvement in mental health nursing care. A descriptive, correlational study with a cross‐sectional design was conducted with 162 mental health nurses at two psychiatric hospitals in Taiwan. Descriptive statistics, independent t‐tests, one‐way analysis of variance, and stepwise multiple linear regression analyses were applied to analyse data. Mental health nurses generally demonstrated positive attitudes towards incorporating families into nursing care. Older age, more clinical experiences in mental healthcare, and workplace (such as working in chronic psychiatric inpatient wards) were found to be key factors for mental health nurses' attitudes. Particularly, greater competence in working with families and job satisfaction were the most significant factors associated with positive attitudes of mental health nurses towards involving families as important in nursing care. Insight into correlates of mental health nurses' attitudes towards the importance of focusing on families in care is pivotal for targeted interventions to improve nurses' attitudes towards families and, thus, implement family engagement in mental healthcare practices.
Effects of Gd3+ substitution on the structure, photoluminescence, scintillation, and thermometric features of Pr3+:Lu2Zr2O7 phosphors
Authors: Xie Tian , Zhang Chengbin , Jiang Pan , Lei Ruoshan , Lei Lei , Li Bingpeng , Xu Shiqing
Published: June 2023

In this study, it is shown how the photoluminescence, scintillation, and optical thermometric properties are managed via the introduction of Gd3+ ions into Pr3+:Lu2Zr2O7. Raman spectra validate that partial replacement of Lu3+ with Gd3+ can promote the phase transition of Lu2Zr2O7 host from the defective fluorite structure to the ordered pyrochlore one. Upon 289 nm excitation, all the samples emit the 483 (3P0 → 3H4), 581 (1D2 → 3H4), 611 (3P0 → 3H6), 636 (3P0 → 3F2), and 714 nm (3P0 → 3F4) emissions from Pr3+ ions, which are enhanced with the addition of Gd3+ ions due to the modification of crystal structure. Dissimilarly, the X‐ray excited luminescence spectra consist of a strong emission located at 314 nm from Gd3+ ions (6P7/2 → 8S7/2), together with the typical emissions from Pr3+ ions, which exhibit different dependences on the Gd3+ concentration. When the luminescence intensity ratio between the 3P0 → 3H6 (611 nm) and 1D2 → 3H4 (581 nm) transitions is selected for temperature sensing, Pr3+:(Lu0.75Gd0.25)2Zr2O7 shows the optimal relative sensing sensitivity of 0.78% K−1 at 303 K, which is higher than that of the Gd3+‐free sample. Therefore, the developed Pr3+:(Lu, Gd)2Zr2O7 phosphors have the applicative potential for optical thermometry, X‐ray detection, and photodynamic therapy.
Optimized ablation resistance behavior and mechanism of C/SiC composites with high thermal conductive channels
Authors: Cao Yejie , Zhang Yunhai , Liu Yongsheng , Cao Liyang , Shao Xiongjian , Wang Jing
Published: June 2023

Aimed to enhance the high‐temperature service performance of C/SiC composites in high‐speed aircraft thermal protection system, in this article, pitch‐based carbon fibers were used to construct high thermal conductive channels to improve the heat transfer capability of C/SiC composites. The results revealed that the as‐prepared composites equipped with 4.7 times higher thermal conductivity than that of conventional C/SiC composites. The oxyacetylene flame ablation test confirmed that the constructed high thermal conductive channels, which quickly conducted the heat flow from the ablation center area to other areas is the main reason of as‐prepared composites exhibiting a very impressive ablation resistance property. Briefly, the ablation temperature of the as‐prepared composite surfaces considerably dropped by about 300°C compared with conventional C/SiC composites, while the linear ablation rate and mass ablation rate of the composites are 1.27 μm/s and 0.61 mg/s respectively, which is superior to many recent reports, demonstrating that this article provides a simple but highly effective measure to improve the ablation resistance property of C/SiC composites.
Improved optical thermometric sensitivity of Eu3+‐doped calcium niobate phosphor via nonstoichiometric control
Authors: Zhu Nannan , Wang Ting , Guo Longchao , Li Ziyang , Duan Bosong , An Xin , He Qingshan , Yue Yang , Yang Luyi , Feng Wei , Yu Xue
Published: June 2023

Eu3+‐doped calcium niobate CaNbxO6 phosphors were successfully prepared by a solid‐state reaction, and the crystal structure, morphology, energy transfer process, and temperature‐dependent behaviors were systematically investigated. The CaNbxO6 host matrix presents the self‐activated characteristic emission at 470 nm due to the charge transfer transition of Nb5+–O2+, and the corresponding photoluminescence intensity reaches the maximum intensity when the nonstoichiometric ratio of Ca2+/Nb5+ ions is 1:1.9. Moreover, the energy transfer process from the host (470 nm) to Eu3+ (612 nm) ions in the CaNb1.9O6:Eu3+ phosphor is demonstrated, and the corresponding energy transfer efficiency is significantly enhanced compared with that of stoichiometric sample. Furthermore, it is observed that nonstoichiometric ratio of Nb5+ ions deteriorates the thermal quenching of the matrix while guaranteeing the thermal stability of the activators, resulting in the relative sensitivity (Sr) of CaNb1.9O6:Eu3+ being greatly improved from 2.235% to 3.673% K−1. Herein, these results provide an effective strategy for manipulating the sensitivity of optical thermometers of phosphors based on the induced modulation of the temperature‐response performance via nonstoichiometric control.
Effectiveness of collaboration in developing computational thinking skills: A systematic review of social cognitive factors
Authors: Lai Xiaoyan , Ye Jiachu , Wong Gary Ka Wai
Published: June 2023

Background

Collaboration has commonly been integrated in computational thinking education to foster novice learning. While the majority of existing studies on developing students' CT skills have been based on competency or personality factors, social factors have been largely ignored.

Objectives

This systematic review, framed by social cognitive learning theories, aims to unravel the influencing factors of collaboration in developing computational thinking skills in K‐12 education.

Methods

We searched four databases and located 79 publications for synthesis analysis to identify 10 social cognitive factors from personal and learning environmental perspectives. Personal factors are gender, prior knowledge, and motivational attitudes, while the learning environmental factors are roles, partnership, interaction, culture, tools, tasks, and scaffolding.

Results and Conclusions

We examined the following five major issues: (a) collaboration elements designed in learning activities; (b) social cognitive factors that might influence the development of computational thinking; (c) the influences caused by social cognitive factors; (d) students' perceived benefits of collaboration; (e) major challenges of integrating collaboration in computational thinking education. The most reported challenges in collaborative classrooms are students' misunderstanding of computational thinking knowledge, negative sentiments, and communication problems. Accordingly, a design framework to facilitate collaborative learning activities was proposed. The design framework can provide a more focused research avenue for examining the effects of collaboration in the development of computational thinking in K‐12 education.
Effect of thickness, translucency, and substrates on the masking ability of a polymer‐infiltrated ceramic‐network material
Authors: Saláta József , Szabó Ferenc , Csuti Péter , Antal Melinda , Márton Péter , Hermann Péter , Borbély Judit , Ábrám Emese
Published: June 2023

Objective

The aim of this in vitro study is to evaluate the masking ability of polymer‐infiltrated ceramic‐network materials (PICN) with different translucencies and thicknesses on multiple types of substrates.

Materials and Methods

Ceramic samples were prepared of VITA ENAMIC blocks in two different translucencies (2M2‐T, 2M2‐HT) in a thickness range of 0.5–2.5 mm (±0.05 mm). Layered specimens were obtained using composite substrates in nine shades and transparent try‐in paste. Spectral reflectance of specimens was measured using a Konica Minolta CM‐3720d spectrophotometer and D65 standard illumination. CIEDE2000 color difference (ΔE00) between two samples was evaluated using 50%:50% perceptibility and acceptability thresholds. Specular component of the reflection was examined with Specular Component Excluded (SCE) and Included (SCI) settings. Statistical evaluation was performed by linear regression analysis, Kruskal–Wallis test, and multiplicative effect analysis.

Results

An increase in thickness of 0.5 mm reduces ΔE00 of HT samples to 73.5%, of T samples to 60.5% (p < 0.0001). Five substrates with HT specimens, and three substrates with T specimens had significantly different results from average (p < 0.05). There is a significant difference between SCE and SCI data depending on the wavelength (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Masking ability of PICN materials is influenced by the thickness and translucency of the ceramic, and by the substrate. Reflection of the examined PICN material is characterized by both diffuse and specular reflection.

Clinical Significance

Although PICN materials have been available on the market for 10 years now, there is a lack of information regarding their masking ability. Acquiring in‐depth data and thereby practical experience of the factors affecting the esthetics of PICN materials is essential for creating perfectly lifelike restorations.
The asymmetry in the sagitta of four mugilid species obtained from Köyceğiz Lagoon, Aegean Sea, Turkey
Authors: Reis İsmail , Ateş Celal , Jawad Laith
Published: June 2023

Otolith features such as size and weight were analysed in 656 fish specimens of Chelon auratus, Chelon labrosus, Chelon saliens and Mugil cephalus collected from the Köyceğiz Lagoon System, Aegean Sea, southwest Turkey. The aim was to calculate the asymmetry value of the otolith length (OL), otolith width (OW) and otolith weight (OWe). The asymmetry value of OL was greater than that of OW and OWe. The asymmetry value of the three otolith parameters increased with an increase in the fish's length. The probable cause of asymmetry in the otolith parameters investigated has been determined relative to the variability in growth prompted by ecological impact linked with the disparity in water temperature, salinity, depth and contaminants existing in the Köyceğiz Lagoon System.
Retail Financial Innovation and Stock Market Dynamics: The Case of Target Date Funds
Authors: PARKER JONATHAN A. , SCHOAR ANTOINETTE , SUN YANG
Published: June 2023

Target date funds (TDFs) are designed to provide unsophisticated or inattentive investors with age‐appropriate exposures to different asset classes like stocks and bonds. The rise of TDFs has moved a significant share of retirement investors into macrocontrarian strategies that sell stocks after relatively good stock market performance. This rebalancing drives contrarian flows across equity mutual funds held by TDFs, stabilizing their funding, and reduces stock returns for stocks disproportionately held by these funds when stock market returns are relatively high. Continued growth in TDFs and similar investment products may dampen stock market volatility and increase the transmission of shocks across asset classes.
Improving risk classification and ratemaking using mixture‐of‐experts models with random effects
Authors: Tseung Spark C. , Chan Ian Weng , Fung Tsz Chai , Badescu Andrei L. , Lin X. Sheldon
Published: June 2023

In the underwriting and pricing of nonlife insurance products, it is essential for the insurer to utilize both policyholder information and claim history to ensure profitability and proper risk management. In this paper, we apply a flexible regression model with random effects, called theMixed Logit‐weighted Reduced Mixture‐of‐Experts, which leverages both policyholder information and their claim history, to categorize policyholders into groups with similar risk profiles, and to determine a premium that accurately captures the unobserved risks. Estimates of model parameters and the posterior distribution of random effects can be obtained by a stochastic variational algorithm, which is numerically efficient and scalable to large insurance portfolios. Our proposed framework is shown to outperform the classical benchmark models (Logistic and Lognormal GL(M)M) in terms of goodness‐of‐fit to data, while offering intuitive and interpretable characterization of policyholders' risk profiles to adequately reflect their claim history.
Baseline sensitivity and resistance analysis of fluopyram against Botrytis cinerea from tomato in Liaoning Province, China
Authors: Wu Liting , Liu Jiani , Wang Kai , Pan Shuang , Qi Zhiqiu
Published: June 2023

Fluopyram, as a novel succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors (SDHIs) fungicide, was applied for controlling grey mould in China. In order to investigate the possible development of resistance development of Botrytis cinerea to fluopyram, Botrytis cinerea were collected from eight areas in Liaoning Province, and the sensitivities of these isolates were assessed by mycelium growth and the fitness and resistance mechanism of resistant isolates screened. The results showed that the sensitivity baseline of B. cinerea to fluopyram was (4.82 ± 1.49) μg/mL, and 5 low resistance isolates to fluopyram were detected. The fitness of resistant isolates showed a downward trend of several variables, such as mycelium growth, mycelium dry weight, sporulation and lesion diameter, which were significantly lower than those of sensitive isolates. Conidia germination did not differ significantly between sensitive and resistant isolates. There was no cross‐resistance between fluopyram and fludioxonil/boscalid/pyrimethanil/procymidone/carbendazim. The succinate dehydrogenase activity of resistant isolates was higher than that of sensitive isolates with fluopyram or not, and the inhibition of fluopyram on succinate dehydrogenase of sensitive isolates was greater than that of resistant isolates. Resistant isolates AS8 and AS14 carried the point mutation (N230I) in subunit B. These results provided that fluopyram belonged to a medium‐high resistance risk to B. cinerea. Information for managing resistance suggested that (1) the number of fluopyram applications should be limited to one per season and (2) fluopyram could be a valid alternative to fludioxonil, pyrimethanil, procymidone and carbendazim for the control of grey mould of tomato.
Motivations and experiences among dentists in rural private practice: A qualitative study
Authors: Prouty Zachary , Reynolds Julie C. , Askelson Natoshia
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Despite the critical importance of access to dental care for rural residents and concerns about a shrinking rural dentist workforce, few studies have examined rural dentist motivations to practice in rural areas. The aim of this study was to explore practicing rural dentists' motivations and experiences qualitatively through semi‐structured interviews to help inform and guide recruitment and retention efforts in rural areas.

Methods

Dentists were included in the sample frame if they were general dentists in private practice and had a primary practice located in a rural Iowa county. Rural dentists with publicly available email addresses were contacted by email to participate. Semi‐structured interviews were administered to 16 private practice general dentists. All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and coded using pre‐set and emergent codes.

Results

Participants were most commonly male (75%), under age 35 (44%), white (88%), and practiced in a partnership arrangement (44%). The main codes regarding dentists' experiences and motivations to practice in a rural area included familiarity with a rural area, community, financial factors, and clinical care delivery. Having been raised in a rural area was a major influence in most dentists' decisions about where to locate.

Conclusions

The importance of rural upbringing in this study underscores the need to consider rural upbringing in dental student admissions. Additional findings, such as financial benefits of a rural practice and other practice‐related factors can be used to inform recruitment efforts.
Root trait variation along water gradients in the Cape Floristic Region
Authors: Kühn Nicola , Tovar Carolina , Willis Katherine J. , Macias‐Fauria Marc
Published: June 2023

Questions

Roots are responsible for essential plant functions including water uptake. However, the extent to which root traits (size and structure) determine plant presence in water‐limited environments is still poorly understood. Here we investigated how root traits vary across water availability gradients within a dry South African biome.

Location

South Africa.

Methods

We measured six below‐ground (root) and eight above‐ground (leaf + stem) traits of 124 individuals of nine dominant woody shrub species from wetter and drier sites (600–700 vs 250–300 mm annual precipitation) in the Fynbos biome of the Cape Floristic Region. Within sites, we sampled from recently burnt and unburnt/more mature vegetation and at three locations along topographical gradients.

Results

Drier regions showed greater maximum rooting depth, length, root dry matter content and root to shoot ratio. These trait patterns were consistent at an intraspecific level, along locally drier topographical locations and in post‐fire environments. Roots accounted for significant whole‐plant trait variation. Additionally, in drier conditions, we found increased root allocation deviating from expected global allometric relationships. Our study also demonstrates that the combination of fire and drought in the driest locations results in poor above‐ground vegetation recovery in terms of plant size, cover and individual counts with only resprouters persisting.

Conclusions

Our research suggests that root investment in Fynbos shrubs will likely be key for coping with a drier and warmer future and should be a focus of more research for dryland biomes.
The clinical application value of salivary pepsin in the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux diseases
Authors: Chen Rongrong , Shi Lin , Huang Xiaoyu , Mao Hui , Feng Benchang , Wang Meifeng , Lin Lin , Jiang Liuqin
Published: June 2023

Background

Peptest is a noninvasive and convenient diagnostic kit for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). We aimed to explore the application value of Peptest in the diagnosis of GERD.

Methods

Patients suspected of GERD all completed 24 h pH‐impedance monitoring (24 h MII‐pH) and then took proton pump inhibitor (PPI) 2 weeks. The postprandial, post‐symptom and random salivary samples were taken. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to identify the best cutoff value of Peptest, to differentiate GERD patients from non‐GERD patients and the optimal sampling time of Peptest was analyzed. Reflux characteristics and esophageal motility between Peptest (+) group and Peptest (−) group were compared in negative 24 h MII‐pH patients. Peptest concentration were compared among non‐reflux, distal reflux, and proximal reflux groups according to 24 h MII‐pH curve.

Results

The area under the curve of post‐symptom Peptest was highest in three time points and the diagnostic specificity was 81.0% and sensitivity was 53.3% with the diagnostic value of 86 ng/mL. Compared with negative Peptest group, distal mean nocturnal baseline impedance was significantly lower, gastroesophageal junction contractile integral was substantially lower in positive Peptest group in negative 24 h MII‐pH patients. The concentration of post‐symptom and postprandial Peptest increased gradually in the non‐reflux, distal reflux, and proximal reflux groups.

Conclusions & Inferences

Peptest has a relatively low diagnostic value for GERD. Post‐symptom Peptset is the best sampling time with the optimal value of 86 ng/mL and may have auxiliary diagnostic value for negative 24 h MII‐pH patients. Peptest may assist 24 h MII‐pH in monitoring proximal reflux.
Ptr1 and ZAR1 immune receptors confer overlapping and distinct bacterial pathogen effector specificities
Authors: Ahn Ye Jin , Kim Haseong , Choi Sera , Mazo‐Molina Carolina , Prokchorchik Maxim , Zhang Ning , Kim Boyoung , Mang Hyunggon , Koehler Naio , Kim Jieun , Lee Soeui , Yoon Hayeon , Choi Doil , Kim Min‐Sung , Segonzac Cécile , Martin Gregory B. , Schultink Alex , Sohn Kee Hoon
Published: June 2023

Some nucleotide‐binding and leucine‐rich repeat receptors (NLRs) indirectly detect pathogen effectors by monitoring their host targets. In Arabidopsis thaliana, RIN4 is targeted by multiple sequence‐unrelated effectors and activates immune responses mediated by RPM1 and RPS2. These effectors trigger cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana, but the corresponding NLRs have yet not been identified. To identify N. benthamiana NLRs (NbNLRs) that recognize Arabidopsis RIN4‐targeting effectors, we conducted a rapid reverse genetic screen using an NbNLR VIGS library.

We identified that the N. benthamiana homolog of Ptr1 (Pseudomonas tomato race 1) recognizes the Pseudomonas effectors AvrRpt2, AvrRpm1, and AvrB.

We demonstrated that recognition of the Xanthomonas effector AvrBsT and the Pseudomonas effector HopZ5 is conferred independently by the N. benthamiana homolog of Ptr1 and ZAR1. Interestingly, the recognition of HopZ5 and AvrBsT is contributed unequally by Ptr1 and ZAR1 in N. benthamiana and Capsicum annuum. In addition, we showed that the RLCK XII family protein JIM2 is required for the NbZAR1‐dependent recognition of AvrBsT and HopZ5.

The recognition of sequence‐unrelated effectors by NbPtr1 and NbZAR1 provides an additional example of convergently evolved effector recognition. Identification of key components involved in Ptr1 and ZAR1‐mediated immunity could reveal unique mechanisms of expanded effector recognition.