bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grid cell disruption in a mouse model of early Alzheimer’s disease reflects reduced integration of self-motion cues and increased influence of environmental geometry
Authors: Ying Johnson , Reboreda Antonio , Yoshida Motoharu , Brandon Mark P.
Published: December 2022

Grid cell impairments and path integration deficits are sensitive markers of early Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Converging evidence from human and rodent studies suggest that disrupted grid coding underlies path integration deficits in preclinical individuals. However, it still remains unclear if disrupted early AD grid coding reflects increased noise across the network or a specific deficit in path integration, perhaps via an impairment in the integration of self-motion cues. Here, we report in the J20 transgenic amyloid beta mouse model of early AD that grid cells were spatially unstable towards the center of the square arena but not near the borders, had qualitatively different spatial components that aligned parallel to the borders of the environment, and exhibited impaired integration of distance travelled via reduced theta phase precession. Our results suggest that disrupted early AD grid coding reflects reduced integration of self-motion cues but not environmental landmarks, providing further evidence that grid cell impairments underlie specific path integration deficits in early AD.
Can suitability indices predict plant growth in the invaded range? The case of Acacias species
Authors: Silva Carmen P. , López Daniela N. , Naulin Paulette I. , Estay Sergio A.
Published: December 2022

Forestry in many parts of the world depends on exotic species, making this industry a source of invasions in some countries. Among others, plantations of the genus Pinus, Eucalyptus, Acacia, Populus, and Pseudotsuga underpin the forestry industry and are a vital component of many countries economies. Among woody plants, the cosmopolitan genus Acacia includes some of the most commonly planted trees worldwide. In order to prevent, manage and control invasive plant species, one of the most used tools is species distribution models. The output of these models can also be used to obtain information about population characteristics, such as spatial abundance patterns or species performance. Although ecological theory suggests a direct link between fitness and suitability, this link is often absent. The reasons behind the lack of this relationship are multiple. Chile is one of the countries where Acacia species, in particular,A. dealbataandA. melanoxylon, have become invaders. Here, we used climatic and edaphic variables to predict the potentially suitable habitats forA. dealbataandA. melanoxylonin continental Chile and evaluate if the suitability indices obtained from these models are associated with the observed performance of the trees along the country. Our models show that variable importance showed significant similarities between the variables that characterize each species’ niche. However, despite the high accuracy of our models, we did not observe an association between suitability and tree growth. This disconnection between suitability and performance can result from multiple causes, from structural limitations, like the lack of biotic interactions in the models, to methodological issues, like the usefulness of the performance metric used. Whatever the scenario, our results suggest that plans to control invasive species should be cautious in assuming this relationship in their design and consider other indicators such as species establishment success.
Developmentally programmed switches in DNA replication: gene amplification and genome-wide endoreplication in Tetrahymena
Authors: Meng Xiangzhou , Dang Hung Quang , Kapler Geoffrey M.
Published: December 2022

Locus-specific gene amplification and genome-wide endoreplication generate the elevated copy number of ribosomal DNA (rDNA, 9000 C) and non-rDNA (45 C) chromosomes in the developing macronucleus ofTetrahymena thermophila. Subsequently, all macronuclear chromosomes replicate once per cell cycle during vegetative growth. Here we describe an unanticipated, programmed switch in the regulation of replication initiation in the rDNA minichomosome. Early in development the 21 kb rDNA minichromosome is preferentially amplified from 2 C to ~800 C from well-defined origins, concurrent with genome-wide endoreplication (2 C to 8-16 C) in starved mating Tetrahymena (endoreplication (ER) Phase 1). Upon refeeding, rDNA and non-rDNA chromosomes achieve their final copy number through resumption of just the endoreplication program (ER Phase 2). Unconventional rDNA replication intermediates are generated primarily during ER phase 2, consistent with delocalized replication initiation and possible formation of persistent RNA-DNA hybrids. Origin usage and replication fork elongation are affected in non-rDNA chromosomes as well. Despite the developmentally programmed 10-fold reduction in the ubiquitous eukaryotic initiator, the Origin Recognition Complex (ORC), active initiation sites are more closely spaced in ER phases 1 and 2 compared to vegetative growing cells. We propose that initiation site selection is relaxed in endoreplicating macronuclear chromosomes and may be less dependent on ORC.
Simulating diffraction photographs based on molecular dynamics trajectories of a protein crystal: a new option to examine structure-solving strategies in protein crystallography
Authors: Liu Ning , Mikhailovskii Oleg , Skrynnikov Nikolai R. , Xue Yi
Published: December 2022

A molecular dynamics (MD)-based pipeline has been designed and implemented to emulate the entire process of collecting diffraction photographs and calculating crystallographic structures of proteins from them. Using a structure of lysozyme solved in-house, a supercell comprising 125 (5 × 5 × 5) crystal unit cells containing a total of 1000 protein molecules and explicit interstitial solvent was constructed. For this system, two 300 ns MD trajectories at 298 and 250 K were recorded. A series of snapshots from these trajectories were then used to simulate a fully realistic set of diffraction photographs, which were further fed into the standard pipeline for structure determination. The resulting structures show very good agreement with the underlying MD model not only in terms of coordinates but also in terms of B factors; they are also consistent with the original experimental structure. The developed methodology should find a range of applications, such as optimizing refinement protocols to solve crystal structures and extracting dynamics information from diffraction data or diffuse scattering.
True molecular conformation and structure determination by three-dimensional electron diffraction of PAH by-products potentially useful for electronic applications
Authors: Andrusenko Iryna , Hall Charlie L. , Mugnaioli Enrico , Potticary Jason , Hall Simon R. , Schmidt Werner , Gao Siyu , Zhao Kaiji , Marom Noa , Gemmi Mauro
Published: December 2022

The true molecular conformation and the crystal structure of benzo[e]dinaphtho[2,3-a;1′,2′,3′,4′-ghi]fluoranthene, 7,14-diphenylnaphtho[1,2,3,4-cde]bisanthene and 7,16-diphenylnaphtho[1,2,3,4-cde]helianthrene were determined ab initio by 3D electron diffraction. All three molecules are remarkable polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The molecular conformation of two of these compounds could not be determined via classical spectroscopic methods due to the large size of the molecule and the occurrence of multiple and reciprocally connected aromatic rings. The molecular structure of the third molecule was previously considered provisional. These compounds were isolated as by-products in the synthesis of similar products and were at the same time nanocrystalline and available only in very limited amounts. 3D electron diffraction data, taken from submicrometric single crystals, allowed for direct ab initio structure solution and the unbiased determination of the internal molecular conformation. Detailed synthetic routes and spectroscopic analyses are also discussed. Based on many-body perturbation theory simulations, benzo[e]dinaphtho[2,3-a;1′,2′,3′,4′-ghi]fluoranthene may be a promising candidate for triplet–triplet annihilation and 7,14-diphenylnaphtho[1,2,3,4-cde]bisanthene may be a promising candidate for intermolecular singlet fission in the solid state.
Towards pump–probe single-crystal XFEL refinements for small-unit-cell systems
Authors: Støckler Lise Joost , Krause Lennard , Svane Bjarke , Tolborg Kasper , Richter Bo , Takahashi Seiya , Fujita Tomoki , Kasai Hidetaka , Sugahara Michihiro , Inoue Ichiro , Nishibori Eiji , Iversen Bo Brummerstedt
Published: December 2022

Serial femtosecond crystallography for small-unit-cell systems has so far seen very limited application despite obvious scientific possibilities. This is because reliable data reduction has not been available for these challenging systems. In particular, important intensity corrections such as the partiality correction critically rely on accurate determination of the crystal orientation, which is complicated by the low number of diffraction spots for small-unit-cell crystals. A data reduction pipeline capable of fully automated handling of all steps of data reduction from spot harvesting to merged structure factors has been developed. The pipeline utilizes sparse indexing based on known unit-cell parameters, seed-skewness integration, intensity corrections including an overlap-based combined Ewald sphere width and partiality correction, and a dynamically adjusted post-refinement routine. Using the pipeline, data measured on the compound K4[Pt2(P2O5H2)4]·2H2O have been successfully reduced and used to solve the structure to an R
1 factor of ∼9.1%. It is expected that the pipeline will open up the field of small-unit-cell serial femtosecond crystallography experiments and allow investigations into, for example, excited states and reaction intermediate chemistry.
Building information modelling adoption for construction waste reduction in the construction industry of a developing country
Authors: Eze Emmanuel Chidiebere , Aghimien Douglas Omoregie , Aigbavboa Clinton Ohis , Sofolahan Onyinye
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to present the result of an assessment of the potential effect of building information modelling (BIM) adoption on the reduction of construction waste (CW) from a developing country's perspective. This was done with a view to reducing the waste generated in construction projects particularly at the design and pre-contract stages.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a post-positivism philosophical approach, which informed the use of a quantitative research design and a questionnaire as instrument for data collection. The data gathered from construction professionals in the Nigeria construction industry were analysed using an array of statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, Kruskal–Wallis H-test, Kendall's coefficient of concordance, chi-square and exploratory factors analysis.

Findings

The study revealed five major groups of factors causing CW at the design and pre-contract stages that can be avoided or minimised through BIM implementation. These are; (1) errors in design and documentation, (2) specification and quality factors, (3) estimating and site condition factors, (4) planning of work factors and (5) procurement related factors.

Practical implications

The findings of the study offer practical insight for industry participants on the need for BIM implementation to reduce CW by identifying the diverse areas responsible for these waste generation.

Originality/value

While there has been significant literature on BIM implementation, contributions on the effect of this technology in reducing waste generation particular at the design and pre-contract stages in developing countries has been almost non-existent. This study strives to fill in this gap by showcasing the major waste generating activities that can be avoided through the use of BIM.
Innovation conviction, innovation mindset and innovation creed as precursors for the need for achievement and women's entrepreneurial success in South Africa: entrepreneurial education as a moderator
Authors: Maziriri Eugine Tafadzwa , Nyagadza Brighton , Chuchu Tinashe
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to determine the impact of innovation conviction, innovation mindset and innovation creed on the need for achievement and the success of women entrepreneurs. The study also investigates the impact of entrepreneurial education in moderating the relationship between the need for achievement and women’s entrepreneurial success.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a structured questionnaire and a quantitative research design. Data were gathered from 304 women entrepreneurs in South Africa’s Gauteng province. The data were analysed using smart partial least squares.

Findings

The results showed that innovation conviction, innovation mindset and innovation creed have positive and significant impacts on the need for achievement. It was also discovered that the need for achievement and entrepreneurial education have a positive and significant impact on women's entrepreneurial success. Moreover, the results showed that entrepreneurial education had a positive and significant moderating effect on the nexus between the need for achievement and women's entrepreneurial success.

Practical implications

By comprehensively examining the impact of innovation conviction, innovation mindset and innovation creed on the need for achievement and women's entrepreneurial success, this study has valuable implications for academics.

Originality/value

This research will add to the corpus of information on women's entrepreneurship and small business management in Africa, which is generally overlooked by academics in developing countries.
Scale development for school administrators' corporate reputation building studies
Authors: Akıllı Ceyda
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The aim of this research is to develop a scale that determines the views of teachers on the efforts of educational administrators to build corporate reputation within the scope of modern education paradigms.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on a scale development method whose validity and reliability analyzes have been completed.

Findings

As a result of the research, a 1-dimensional and 15-item scale was obtained, which aims to evaluate the corporate reputation building efforts of school administrators from the perspective of teachers. When the literature is examined, there are many scales on corporate reputation; however, the literature determined that there is no scale that aims to determine the opinions of teachers about the reputation building efforts of education administrators.

Originality/value

Educational administrators engage in efforts to build corporate reputation through stakeholder analysis, needs analysis, strategic plan development, organizational design and change management (Lawler et al., 2006). Specializing in this field is very important for training managers by taking training on human resources in order to carry out effective work in the process of corporate reputation formation, and the human resources of the institution are the groups that will best evaluate the reputation building efforts of the managers (Lockwood, 2007).
Islamic banking, efficiency and societal welfare: a machine-learning, agent-based study
Authors: Polyzos Efstathios , Samitas Aristeidis , Syriopoulos Konstantinos
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper models the benefits of Islamic banking on the efficiency of the banking sector and on societal happiness. This paper aims to examine how the adoption of Islamic banking to various degrees affects economics outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses machine-learning tools to build a happiness function and integrate it in an agent-based model to test for the direct and indirect welfare effects of implementing Islamic banking principles.

Findings

This study shows that even though Islamic banking systems tend to reduce economic activity, financial stability and societal happiness is improved. Additionally, a banking sector using Islamic principles across all its members is better equipped to handle banking crises because contagion to both economic activity and societal welfare is greatly reduced. At the same time, adoption of the profit-and-loss sharing (PLS) paradigm by banks may also slow down economic growth.

Research limitations/implications

The findings extend existing literature on the advantages of Islamic banking, by quantifying the welfare benefits of the PLS paradigm on happiness and financial stability.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first to combine agent-based modelling with machine learning tools to examine the benefits of the Islamic banking model on financial stability, social welfare and unemployment.
The couch as a classroom: exploring the school environment of low-income Latine adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Renick Jennifer , Reich Stephanie M.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to uncover what the at-home educational environments of low-income Latine adolescents looked like during the COVID-19 pandemic and how these environments influenced students’ participation in their online classes. Additionally, the findings highlight students’ perspectives on their varied engagement in virtual instruction.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for this study were collected via an online survey that included both open and close-ended questions. Students were able to share about their behaviors and comfort in their online classes, as well as provide photos of the areas from which they joined their online classes. Quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods were used.

Findings

Many students in the sample expressed discomfort with themselves and their homes being seen on camera and shared having to juggle multiple responsibilities during online classes. Photos uploaded revealed that at-home educational environments often lacked the resources afforded by in-school instruction, with students joining classes from areas that may not be conducive to learning.

Originality/value

Research has highlighted the ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic may have exacerbated existing issues of educational equity, but the systemic reasons for these inequities remain understudied. The results from this study highlight the ways in which disparate at-home learning environments may help to explain unequal engagement in online classes.
The role of artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies in sustainable tourism in the Middle East
Authors: Kashem Mohammad Abul , Shamsuddoha Mohammad , Nasir Tasnuba , Chowdhury Asma Akter
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper reviews the role of two significant smart technologies, artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology (BT) in achieving sustainable tourism success. Such changes will maintain consistent tourism growth in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region by improving environmental, social and economic sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative approach focusing on AI and blockchain-based adaptations towards sustainability in technology-driven platforms, particularly in the tourism sector. However, this study is conceptualized with Day's (1989) IMRAD (introduction, methods, results and discussion) framework and Hall's (2012) suggestions. This reinforced the structure of this article by the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) concept. In addition, the entire study proceeds by way of accentuating the research question.

Findings

The potential of these technologies (AI and blockchain) can internalize a win-win situation for economic prosperity and sustainable conservation of environmental resources. Even though, apathy among potential tourists (of traditional mass tourism) can be revived under sustainable tourism in the region through smart technology. Replacing traditional practices and policies with innovative technologies can reduce the adverse effect on environmental and cultural resources.

Originality/value

This research justifies the potential for AI and blockchain to balance economy-oriented tourism and sustainability-prone technologically advanced tourism as a caustic issue for the MENA region. Indeed, this study has revitalized and transformed the less eventful margins of leading cultural-heritage-based tourism into sustainable profitability with concerns over diversity, socio-economic conditions, economic recession and burgeoning geopolitical instability.
Silkworm pupae derivatives as source of high value protein intended for pasta fortification
Authors: Piazza Laura , Ratti Simona , Girotto Francesca , Cappellozza Silvia
Published: December 2022

Silkworm (Bombyx mori) pupae are recognized as novel nutritionally valuable food. Their use in pasta‐making was considered with the intention of repositioning spaghetti shaped pasta supplemented with silkworm derivatives (10%db) as a valuable product in sustainable diets besides upcycling a side stream from the silk industry. The principal objective of this study was to assess the cooking quality (i.e., imbibition kinetics, cooking loss) and texture of pasta supplemented with defatted silkworm powder or with its aqueous protein extract, which enabled to reduce the content of indigestible components supplying a similar protein intake. Pasta was produced on lab‐scale, dried, and tested for chemical composition, mechanical properties before and during cooking, cooking behavior in terms of hydration kinetics, starch gelatinization, and cooking quality indexes. The structural roles on pasta protein network played by silkworm powder and proteins extract were investigated. The former behaves as a structural thickener while the second provides a steric hindrance effect with consequent different cooking performances. With regards to the fortified pasta perceived quality, a high level in total color difference (ΔE) was measured (ΔE > 6). However, after fortification agents’ addition, pasta color became closer to that of the whole wheat pasta already known by consumers. Structure fragility increased. The energy at break of the “extract pasta” was about one‐third of the control (0.849 N*mm). Silkworm powder addition led to the highest pasta optimal cooking time (376 s) and the slowest imbibition rate (0.0001 s−1). After fortification, pasta had an almost doubled cooking loss than control pasta (2.97 ± 0.18 g/100gdb).

Practical Application

Silkworm pupae flour can be easily applied for pasta fortification in order to increase the protein daily intake of people in an easy and practical way.
Chemical characterization of yellow‐orange and purple varieties of Opuntia ficus‐indica fruits and thermal stability of their betalains
Authors: Carreón‐Hidalgo Juan Pablo , Román‐Guerrero Angélica , Navarro‐Ocaña Arturo , Gómez‐Linton Darío R. , Franco‐Vásquez Diana Carolina , Franco‐Vásquez Adrián Marcelo , Arreguín‐Espinosa Roberto , Pérez‐Flores Laura J.
Published: December 2022

Betalains are plant pigments with biological properties and can be used instead of synthetic colorants to confer color and functional properties to foods. The objective of this work was to carry out the chemical characterization of two varieties of prickly pear of Opuntia ficus‐indica, one of yellow‐orange coloration (Mandarina) and the other of purple coloration (Vigor), through measurements of chemical parameters and color in pulp, antioxidant activity, total phenolic compounds, and betalain content. Considering the thermolability of betalains and their potential applications in food, the thermal stability and activation energy of betacyanins from Vigor variety and betaxanthins from the Mandarina variety were also evaluated and compared with those from beetroot, the main source of betalains. Results for chemical characterization agreed with previous prickly pear reports of other regions, while the thermal degradation kinetics of betalains showed a first‐order degradation pattern with respect to time and temperature treatment. Betacyanins from Vigor prickly pear showed similar thermal stability to those from beetroot, which was reflected in similar values of activation energy, while betaxanthins from Mandarina prickly pear showed a higher stability, and therefore a higher activation energy, than those from beetroot. Based on the results, the prickly pear varieties used in this study can be considered as a good source of betalains with potential applications in food and, in addition, the methodology for the evaluation of thermostability can be used to compare the stability of betalains from different sources in a temperature range of 50–90°C.

Practical Application

The varieties of prickly pear used in this study can be considered a good source of red‐purple and yellow‐orange easily extractable pigments. In addition, we report a methodology that can be used for the evaluation of the thermal stability of these pigments and to compare this stability between different plant sources. Gaining knowledge on betalain thermal stability will make it possible to propose specific applications, for example, in processed foods requiring different pigment stabilities.
The survival after discontinuation of EGFR‐TKIs due to intolerable adverse events in patients with EGFR‐mutated non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Chang John Wen‐Cheng , Chang Ching‐Fu , Huang Chen‐Yang , Yang Cheng‐Ta , Kuo Chih‐Hsi Scott , Fang Yueh‐Fu , Hsu Ping‐Chih , Wu Chiao‐En
Published: December 2022

Background

Epidermal growth factor receptor‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR‐TKIs) are standard treatments for advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients harboring the EGFR mutation. Patients experiencing intolerable adverse events (AEs) would discontinue EGFR‐TKIs. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of intolerable AEs and subsequent treatment on the survival of patients who discontinued EGFR‐TKIs.

Patients

The data of advanced NSCLC patients treated with EGFR‐TKIs as frontline treatment at Chang Gung Memorial Hospitals from June 2014 to March 2018 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

A total of 2190 patients were enrolled and treated with frontline EGFR‐TKIs. In August 2021, 114 (5.2%) patients experienced intolerable AEs requiring discontinuation of EGFR‐TKIs. The time median of EGFR‐TKIs discontinuation was 2.56 months. Age >65 years, females, body weight, and body surface area were associated with the occurrence of intolerable AEs for patients treated with afatinib. Patients experiencing skin/paronychia/mucositis and abnormal liver function test had favorable survivals results. Patients who received subsequent EGFR‐TKIs treatment, experienced better progression‐free survival (PFS), total PFS (from frontline line EGFR‐TKIs), and overall survival (OS) compared to patients receiving chemotherapy or no treatment. Patients undergoing subsequent EGFR‐TKIs had better total PFS (median, 14.9 vs. 11.3 months, p = 0.013) and OS (median, 31.3 vs. 20.1 months, p = 0.001) than patients who did not discontinue because of AEs. Favorable OS was validated by propensity score matching.

Conclusion

Patients experiencing intolerable AEs during EGFR‐TKI treatment should consider switching to an alternative EGFR‐TKI, which increase the survival results as compared to those patients who did not experience intolerable AEs.
Failure to account for behavioral variability significantly compromises accuracy in indirect population monitoring
Authors: Wessling E. G. , Surbeck M.
Published: December 2022

Indirect wildlife population surveying largely depends upon counts of artifacts of behavior (e.g., nests or dung). Likelihood to encounter these artifacts is derived from both artifact production and decay, and variability in production behavior is considered to contribute minimally to inaccuracy in wildlife estimation. Here, we demonstrate how ignoring behavioral variability leads to significant population misestimation, using an example of an endangered ape, the bonobo (Pan paniscus). Until now, a single estimate of nest construction rate has been used to extrapolate bonobo densities, assumed to be broadly representative of bonobo sign production behavior. We estimated nest construction rates across seasons and social groups at the Kokolopori Bonobo Reserve, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and find nest construction rates in bonobos to be highly variable across populations as well as seasonal within populations. Failure to account for this variability led to degradation in the accuracy of bonobo population density estimates, accounting for a likely overestimation of bonobo numbers by 34%, and at worst as high as 80%. With this example, we demonstrate that failure to account for inter‐ and intrapopulation behavioral variation compromises the ability to estimate both relative and absolute wildlife abundances. We argue that variation in sign production is but one of the several potential ways that behavioral variability can affect conservation monitoring, should be measured across contexts whenever possible, and must be considered in population estimation confidence intervals. With increasing attention to behavioral variability as a potential tool for conservation, conservationists must also account for the impact that behavioral variability can have upon wildlife population estimation. Our results underline the importance of observational research to wildlife monitoring schemes as a critical component of conservation management. We discuss the avenues through which behavioral variability is likely to impact wildlife monitoring accuracy and precision and propose potential approaches for accounting for behavioral variability in wildlife monitoring.
First‐trimester glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and maternal characteristics in the prediction of gestational diabetes: An observational cohort study
Authors: Amylidi‐Mohr Sofia , Lang Cheryl , Mosimann Beatrice , Fiedler Georg M. , Stettler Christoph , Surbek Daniel , Raio Luigi
Published: December 2022

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the extent to which gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) can be predicted in the first trimester by combining a marker of growing interest, glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and maternal characteristics.

Material and methods

This observational study was conducted in the outpatient obstetric department of our institution. The values of HbA1c and venous random plasma glucose were prospectively assessed in the first trimester of pregnancy. We determined maternal characteristics that were independent predictors from the regression analysis and calculated areas under the receiver‐operating curves by combining the maternal age, body mass index, previous history of GDM, and first‐degree family history for diabetes mellitus. Moreover we investigated the predictive capability of HbA1c to exclude GDM. Patients with a first‐trimester HbA1c level of 6.5% (48 mmol/mol) or more were excluded. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02139254.

Results

We included 785 cases with complete dataset. The prevalence of GDM was 14.7% (115/785). Those who developed GDM had significantly higher HbA1c and random plasma glucose values (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0002, respectively). In addition, they had a higher body mass index, were more likely to have a history of GDM and/or a first‐degree family history of diabetes. When these maternal characteristics were combined with the first‐trimester HbA1c and random plasma glucose the combined area under the receiver operating characteristics curve was 0.76 (95% CI 0.70–0.81).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that HbA1c and random plasma glucose values combined with age, body mass index, and personal and family history, allow the identification of women in the first trimester who are at increased risk of developing GDM.
Healthspan extension, completeness of life and justice
Authors: Masny Michal
Published: December 2022

Recent progress in geroscience holds the promise of significantly slowing down or even reversing ageing and age‐related diseases, and thus increasing our healthspans. In this paper, I offer a novel argument in favour of developing such technology and making it unconditionally available to everyone. In particular, I argue that justice requires that each person be provided with sufficient opportunities to have a ‘complete life’, that many people currently lack such opportunities, and that we would substantially improve the status quo by giving them access to anti‐ageing technology.
Formal description of Phytophthora novae‐guineae sp. nov., a Clade 5 species
Authors: Arentz Frans
Published: December 2022

During a systematic survey for Phytophthora in forest and agricultural soils in Papua New Guinea, carried out in the 1970 s and 1980s, two Clade 5 species, identified as P. heveae and P. castaneae, were recovered. Subsequent genetic analysis of two of the isolates that had been identified as P. castaneae confirmed that these isolates were distinct and represented a new species, tentatively named Phytophthora sp. "novaeguineae", a nomen nudum as there is no formal description. Based on data collected during the systematic survey, the species is now formally described as P. novae‐guineae.
Building public trust in national assessment: The example of China'sNAEQ
Authors: Smith William , Xu Xiao
Published: December 2022

After eight years of piloting, China's National Assessment of Education Quality (NAEQ) was administered for the first time in 2015. The NAEQ was introduced during the country's transition from exam‐oriented to quality‐oriented education. The public, in particular parents and students, were required to subscribe to this reorientation. To ensure public support, the government introduced a range of strategies to communicate the objective of the NAEQ and how the public was expected to engage with it and trust the assessment. This study reviewed policy documents, press releases, government administrative documents, and media coverage from the Chinese Ministry of Education to explore strategies used by the government to raise the public's trust in the NAEQ. A total of 169 documents, spanning from the assessment's initial development in 2007 to 2020, were included. Findings identify three main areas of effort to increase public trust in the national assessment: (1) highlighting similarities between the NAEQ and PISA—an assessment that holds high public trust, (2) demonstrating that the NAEQ is an internationally respected assessment, and (3) specifying how the NAEQ aligns with broader aims of quality‐oriented education in China.
Task‐based functional magnetic resonance imaging prediction of postsurgical cognitive outcomes in temporal lobe epilepsy: A systematic review, meta‐analysis, and new data
Authors: Crow Andrew J. D. , Thomas Alisha , Rao Yash , Beloor‐Suresh Ashithkumar , Weinstein David , Hinds Walter A. , Tracy Joseph I.
Published: December 2022

Task‐based functional magnetic resonance imaging (tfMRI) has developed as a common alternative in epilepsy surgery to the intracarotid amobarbital procedure, also known as the Wada procedure. Prior studies have implicated tfMRI as a comparable predictor of postsurgical cognitive outcomes. However, the predictive validity of tfMRI has not been established. This preregistered systematic review and meta‐analysis (CRD42020183563) synthesizes the literature predicting postsurgical cognitive outcomes in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) using tfMRI. The PubMed and PsycINFO literature databases were queried for English‐language articles published between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2020 associating tfMRI laterality indices or symmetry of task activation with outcomes in TLE. Their references were reviewed for additional relevant literature, and unpublished data from our center were incorporated. Nineteen studies were included in the meta‐analysis. tfMRI studies predicted postsurgical cognitive outcomes in left TLE ( = −.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −.32 to −.23) but not right TLE ( = −.02, 95% CI = −.08 to .03). Among studies of left TLE, language tfMRI studies were more robustly predictive of postsurgical cognitive outcomes ( = −.27, 95% CI = −.33 to −.20) than memory tfMRI studies ( = −.27, 95% CI = −.43 to −.11). Further moderation by cognitive outcome domain indicated language tfMRI predicted confrontation naming ( = −.32, 95% CI = −.41 to −.22) and verbal memory ( = −.26, 95% CI = −.35 to −.17) outcomes, whereas memory tfMRI forecasted only verbal memory outcomes ( = −.37, 95% CI = −.57 to −.18). Surgery type, birth sex, level of education, age at onset, disease duration, and hemispheric language dominance moderated study outcomes. Sensitivity analyses suggested the interval of postsurgical follow‐up, and reporting and methodological practices influenced study outcomes as well. These findings intimate tfMRI is a modest predictor of outcomes in left TLE that should be considered in the context of a larger surgical workup.
The attack on share buybacks
Authors: DeAngelo Harry
Published: December 2022

Corporate share buybacks are under attack, mainly from the political left, but also to some degree from the right. Critics advocate increasing the tax on buybacks in the hope of inducing firms to invest more and in ways that benefit workers. This attack on buybacks reflects a misunderstanding of basic (textbook‐level) finance principles. The approach advocated by critics will backfire at growth‐stage firms, which will invest less, not more, because a payout‐tax increase will reduce the supply of equity infusions. At mature firms that are generating ample free cash flow, managers can easily evade the (unattractive‐for‐shareholders) real investments that critics desire by investing retained cash in financial assets. Buyback critics should recognise that punishing cash payouts per se would be counterproductive, and should focus instead on making a case for legislation that creates incentives that directly promote the specific behaviours they desire.
Warming reshapes the invertebrate predation pressure on the plankton community
Authors: Devkota Nischal , Salis Romana K. , Hansson Lars‐Anders
Published: December 2022

Climate change stressors, including warming and heatwaves, can alter plankton composition and dominance patterns in temperate shallow lakes, which can disrupt ecosystem function and curtail ecosystem services. Understanding how these alterations could take place under future climates is therefore important.

To understand such changes, we performed a year‐long mesocosm experiment with controls reflecting present temperature conditions and a treatment reflecting a future climate change scenario, including heatwaves of 5–8°C above ambient water temperatures.

In the warmer conditions, the predatory invertebrate Mesostoma, exerted a strong top‐down control on Daphnia, resulting in a switch in herbivore dominance to Ceriodaphnia in contrast to the controls where Daphnia remained dominant. A complementary predation experiment revealed that Mesostoma fed at a higher rate on Daphnia than on Ceriodaphnia and cyclopoid copepods. Cyclopoids were the least affected taxon but showed tendencies to sustain populations longer into the winter at elevated temperatures. Moreover, both total algal and cyanobacteria biomass increased with warming.

Our experiments suggest that predator–prey dynamics may alter plankton community composition and dominance patterns in a warmer climate because thermophilic predatory invertebrates have the potential to induce cascading food‐chain effects and alter the herbivore dominance patterns in lake zooplankton. This may have implications for the algal population dynamics and overall ecosystem function and processes in shallow lakes.
Pinch force generation during scaling by dental professionals: A systematic review
Authors: Suedbeck Jessica R. , Ludwig Emily A.
Published: December 2022

Objective

The objective of this review was to examine the impact of instrument designs on pinch force generation during scaling by dental professionals.

Methods

Three databases were utilized from September 2019 to November 2021 in addition to hand‐searching specific journals and reference lists. Research articles that examined pinch force generation in dental professionals during scaling with manual instruments only were included. Bias was assessed in the individual articles.

Results

Six research articles were included with sample populations that varied from 12 to 24 participants. Four articles evaluated instrument designs in relation to pinch force generation during scaling by dental professionals. Two articles evaluated the clinicians' experience levels and the impact on pinch force generation. Results of three articles revealed instruments with large diameters and low weights produced the least amount of pinch force (p < 0.05). Additionally, two articles found instruments with a round, tapered shape produced less pinch force and instrument handles made of silicone produced higher pinch strength post‐scaling (p < 0.05). One study indicated instrument designs associated with modified scaling techniques may reduce thumb and index finger pinch force (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The findings from this review indicate weak evidence for instrument choices to reduce pinch force during scaling. Dental professionals should consider lightweight and large diameter instruments for manual scaling. Clinicians may also want to consider round, tapered handles and instrument designs with modified scaling techniques. This systematic review further identified the need for clinical research studies with rigorous research designs that examine the ergonomic impacts of instrument designs.
The association between low birth weight and/or preterm birth and dental caries ‐A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cui Yuqi , Chen Dongru , Lin Huancai , Tao Ye
Published: December 2022

Background

Studies on the association between adverse birth outcomes and dental caries in children have shown conflicting results, so the aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to investigate the association between adverse birth outcomes and dental caries in children.

Methods

We systematically searched articles in four electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library and Embase) published prior to August 2021. The odds ratio (OR) (or converted OR) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were processed. The certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE's risk bias assessment tool. Random effects model was used for this meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of thirty‐one observational studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled estimates indicated that children exposed to low birth weight (LBW)/preterm birth (PTB) did not experience higher dental caries in primary teeth. Subgroup analyses showed that children with LBW (OR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.03–1.63) were prone to have dental caries in primary teeth for cross‐sectional studies, but no significant differences for prospective studies. PTB children experienced more primary caries in high‐income countries (OR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.00–1.70) than in low‐ and middle‐income countries.

Conclusions

The current evidence did not suggest a significant association between LBW and dental caries in children for primary teeth. Children with PTB in high‐income countries had a higher prevalence of primary dental caries. Further prospective studies should adjust for confounding factors (age, oral health and family finances) to determine the definitive association between LBW/PTB and dental caries.
Comparative study of the functional compounds and antioxidant properties of different cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) leaf cultivars after in vitro digestion
Authors: Seke Faith , Moloto Mapula R. , Shoko Tinotenda , Sultanbawa Yasmina , Sivakumar Dharini
Published: December 2022

Traditionally, cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) leaves are consumed by the sub‐Saharan population. Carotenoids and phenolic compounds in cowpea leaves possess great antioxidant properties; however, their bioaccessibility is affected by digestion. This study investigated the influence of in vitro digestion on carotenoids, antioxidant and antidiabetic capacity of three cowpea cultivars (VOP1, VOP3 and VOP4). Among the cowpea cultivars, VOP1 showed the highest 9‐cis‐β‐carotene (21.13%) bioaccessibility, VOP3 showed the highest all‐trans β‐carotene (32.11%) and α‐carotene (21.75%) bioaccessibilities and VOP4 showed the highest lutein (17.70%) and zeaxanthin (32.03%) bioaccessibilities. The ferric‐reducing antioxidant power, 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging (DPPH) activities, 2,2′‐azino‐bis‐3‐ethylbenzthiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid), α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase inhibitory effects decreased in the small intestinal phase. The cowpea cultivars demonstrated a high ability to meet the recommended daily allowance for carotenoids. As a result, the findings of this study show that cowpea leaves have the potential to be used as functional ingredients.
Properties of gelatin/chitosan blend films incorporated with betel leaf ethanolic extract loaded in liposomes and their use as pouches for shrimp oil packaging
Authors: Tagrida Mohamed , Gulzar Saqib , Nilsuwan Krisana , Prodpran Thummanoon , Ma Lukai , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: December 2022

Properties of gelatin/chitosan blend films plasticised with different plasticisers and incorporated with liposomes loaded with betel leaf ethanolic extract (L/BLEE) at 2% or BLEE at an equivalent amount were investigated. Films plasticised with glycerol (GLY) and incorporated with BLEE (B‐GLY) showed better properties (P < 0.05) than other films (F‐GLY, LB‐GLY, F‐PEG, B,PEG and LB‐PEG). Type of plasticiser had no effect on antioxidant activities of films (P > 0.05). SEM images of the films revealed homogenous surface and cross‐section in film samples devoid of active compounds, while those incorporated with BLEE or L/BLEE had rougher surfaces and cross‐sections. During storage at room temperature, lower oxidation took place in shrimp oil packaged in pouches made from gelatin/chitosan blend plasticised with GLY and incorporated with BLEE (B‐GLY) compared with that packaged in lower density polyethylene (LDPE) pouches. Therefore, B‐GLY films could be used as active packaging to retard lipid oxidation in shrimp oil.
Interaction of α‐lactalbumin with dihydromyricetin and its application in nano‐emulsion
Authors: Zhen Shiyu , Geng Sheng , Ma Hanjun , Liu Benguo
Published: December 2022

The non‐covalent interaction between α‐lactalbumin (α‐La) and dihydromyricetin (DMY) was systematically revealed based on spectrofluorimetry and molecular docking method, and the potential application of their complex as an emulsifier in nano‐emulsion was evaluated. The results showed that DMY and α‐La could form a non‐covalent complex, which led to the static fluorescence quenching of α‐La, and their complexation was driven by hydrogen bonding and van der Waals force, causing the changes in the microenvironment around the tryptophan and tyrosine residues of α‐La, which was consistent with molecular docking analysis. The increase of the proportion of DMY in the complex could gradually improve the ability of the complex to reduce the oil/water interfacial tension and its ABTS radical scavenging ability. The stability and β‐carotene protective effect of nano‐emulsion developed by the complex were superior to those of nano‐emulsion stabilised by α‐La, which were positively correlated with the DMY concentration in the complex.