bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel insight into the ectodermal dysplasia 11A: Splicing variant of the EDARADD gene in a family with clinical variability and literature review
Authors: Fazelzadeh Haghighi Negin , Kamal Neda , Jafari Khamirani Hossein , Fazelzadeh Haghighi Maryam , Dastgheib Seyed Alireza , Dianatpour Mehdi , Tabei Seyed Mohammad Bagher
Published: June 2023

Pathogenic variants in the EDARADD gene result in autosomal recessive and autosomal dominant ectodermal dysplasia. This article reports on the fourth family in the world with ectodermal dysplasia 11A (ECTD11A) cause from a novel splicing variant in the EDARADD gene, identified by whole exome sequencing and confirmed by Sanger sequencing. The proband and his mother were heterozygous for the detected variant (NM_145861.4:c.161‐2A>T). The proband manifests unusual symptoms including hyperkeratotic plaques, slow‐growing hair, recurrent infection, and pectus excavatum. His mother presents hypohidrosis, extensive tooth decay, fragile nails, and sparse hair. Further studies on ECTD11A patients could be useful to characterizing the phenotype features more precisely.
Successful treatment of pustulotic arthro‐osteitis with amoxicillin: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Terui Hitoshi , Segawa Yuichiro , Otake Eika , Omori Ryoko , Tsuchiyama Kenichiro , Kikuchi Katsuko , Yamasaki Kenshi , Aiba Setsuya , Asano Yoshihide
Published: June 2023

Palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) is a chronic skin inflammatory disease characterized by sterile pustules on the palms and soles. Pustulotic arthro‐osteitis (PAO) is a major comorbidity of PPP, frequently affecting the anterior chest wall. PPP and PAO are thought to be closely associated with focal infection. We report a female in her 40s who developed pustules on her palms and soles with tenderness of both sternoclavicular and left sacroiliac joints, which were not improved with non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. Of note, she showed a great response to amoxicillin, resulting in the almost complete resolution of her skin lesions and arthralgia. We also reviewed previous reports to learn more about the potential therapeutic options of antibiotics for PAO.
Vegetation structure from LiDAR explains the local richness of birds across Denmark
Authors: Davison Charles W. , Assmann Jakob J. , Normand Signe , Rahbek Carsten , Morueta‐Holme Naia
Published: June 2023

Classic ecological research into the determinants of biodiversity patterns emphasised the important role of three‐dimensional (3D) vegetation heterogeneity. Yet, measuring vegetation structure across large areas has historically been difficult. A growing focus on large‐scale research questions has caused local vegetation heterogeneity to be overlooked compared with more readily accessible habitat metrics from, for example, land cover maps.

Using newly available 3D vegetation data, we investigated the relative importance of habitat and vegetation heterogeneity for explaining patterns of bird species richness and composition across Denmark (42,394 km2).

We used standardised, repeated point counts of birds conducted by volunteers across Denmark alongside metrics of habitat availability from land‐cover maps and vegetation structure from rasterised LiDAR data (10 m resolution). We used random forest models to relate species richness to environmental features and considered trait‐specific responses by grouping species by nesting behaviour, habitat preference and primary lifestyle. Finally, we evaluated the role of habitat and vegetation heterogeneity metrics in explaining local bird assemblage composition.

Overall, vegetation structure was equally as important as habitat availability for explaining bird richness patterns. However, we did not find a consistent positive relationship between species richness and habitat or vegetation heterogeneity; instead, functional groups displayed individual responses to habitat features. Meanwhile, habitat availability had the strongest correlation with the patterns of bird assemblage composition.

Our results show how LiDAR and land cover data complement one another to provide insights into different facets of biodiversity patterns and demonstrate the potential of combining remote sensing and structured citizen science programmes for biodiversity research. With the growing coverage of LiDAR surveys, we are witnessing a revolution of highly detailed 3D data that will allow us to integrate vegetation heterogeneity into studies at large spatial extents and advance our understanding of species' physical niches.
Robert Barret and the Making of an Early Modern Occasional Spy
Authors: WOODCOCK MATTHEW
Published: June 2023

This article examines letters written by the soldier‐author Robert Barret in 1581 describing his travels in France and Italy, while a runaway apprentice during the 1570s, that led him to the English College in Rome. Barret's letters constitute a valuable, hitherto overlooked source of first‐hand information about British and Irish Catholics in continental Europe, complementing better‐known sources by Anthony Munday and Charles Sledd. Barret latterly recast his travels as an intelligence‐gathering opportunity in which he collected detailed information both on Catholic exiles (including Thomas Stukeley, Bishop Thomas Goldwell, and Cardinal William Allen) and on putative plans to invade England. The letters provide an exemplary record of the – not uncommon – experiences of someone compelled by circumstances to adopt the role of an occasional spy. This article not only analyses the value of the letters’ contents but discusses broader questions concerning the pliable, shifting nature of early modern intelligence and intelligence‐gatherers.
New Explorations in Early Modern Intelligence‐Gathering: Introduction
Authors: SHAW DANNIELLE , WOODCOCK MATTHEW
Published: June 2023

This introduction to ‘New Explorations in Early Modern Intelligence‐Gathering’ provides a brief overview of some of the common currents and directions of scholarship on early modern espionage in order to provide a critical context for the essays comprising this special issue. It identifies the extent to which scholars have looked both at individual spies and the systems and secretariats within which they worked, and charts some of the significant emerging fields into which espionage studies is developing. The second part of the introduction then provides summaries of the essays by the seven contributing authors, drawing out how each, in different ways, explores questions concerning the motives, rewards, and occupational identity of those involved in espionage between the mid‐sixteenth and early eighteenth centuries.
Characterization of the pheromone receptors in Mythimna loreyi reveals the differentiation of sex pheromone recognition in Mythimna species
Authors: Wang Chan , Liu Lei , Huang Tian‐Yu , Zhang Yu , Liu Yang , Wang Gui‐Rong
Published: June 2023

Pheromone receptors (PRs) are key proteins in the molecular mechanism of pheromone recognition, and exploring the functional differentiation of PRs between closely related species helps to understand the evolution of moth mating systems. Pheromone components of the agricultural pest Mythimna loreyi have turned into (Z)‐9‐tetradecen‐1‐yl acetate (Z9‐14:OAc), (Z)‐7‐dodecen‐1‐yl acetate (Z7‐12:OAc), and (Z)‐11‐hexadecen‐1‐yl acetate, while the composition differs from that of M. separata in the genus Mythimna. To understand the molecular mechanism of pheromone recognition, we sequenced and analyzed antennal transcriptomes to identify 62 odorant receptor (OR) genes. The expression levels of all putative ORs were analyzed using differentially expressed gene analysis. Six candidate PRs were quantified and functionally characterized in the Xenopus oocytes system. MlorPR6 and MlorPR3 were determined to be the receptors of major and minor components Z9‐14:OAc and Z7‐12:OAc. MlorPR1 and female antennae (FA)‐biased MlorPR5 both possessed the ability to detect pheromones of sympatric species, including (Z,E)‐9,12‐tetradecadien‐1‐ol, (Z)‐9‐tetradecen‐1‐ol, and (Z)‐9‐tetradecenal. Based on the comparison of PR functions between M. loreyi and M. separata, we analyzed the differentiation of pheromone recognition mechanisms during the evolution of the mating systems of 2 Mythimna species.
NetworkExtinction: An R package to simulate extinction propagation and rewiring potential in ecological networks
Authors: Ávila‐Thieme M. Isidora , Kusch Erik , Corcoran Derek , Castillo Simón P. , Valdovinos Fernanda S. , Navarrete Sergio A. , Marquet Pablo A.
Published: June 2023

Earth's biosphere is undergoing drastic reorganization due to the sixth mass extinction brought on by the Anthropocene. Impacts of local and regional extirpation of species have been demonstrated to propagate through the complex interaction networks they are part of, leading to secondary extinctions and exacerbating biodiversity loss. Contemporary ecological theory has developed several measures to analyse the structure and robustness of ecological networks under biodiversity loss. However, a toolbox for directly simulating and quantifying extinction cascades and creating novel interactions (i.e. rewiring) remains absent.

Here, we present NetworkExtinction—a novel R package which we have developed to explore the propagation of species extinction sequences through ecological networks and quantify the effects of rewiring potential in response to primary species extinctions. With NetworkExtinction, we integrate ecological theory and computational simulations to develop functionality with which users may analyse and visualize the structure and robustness of ecological networks. The core functions introduced with NetworkExtinction focus on simulations of sequential primary extinctions and associated secondary extinctions, allowing user‐specified secondary extinction thresholds and realization of rewiring potential.

With the package NetworkExtinction, users can estimate the robustness of ecological networks after performing species extinction routines based on several algorithms. Moreover, users can compare the number of simulated secondary extinctions against a null model of random extinctions. In‐built visualizations enable graphing topological indices calculated by the deletion sequence functions after each simulation step. Finally, the user can estimate the network's degree distribution by fitting different common distributions. Here, we illustrate the use of the package and its outputs by analysing a Chilean coastal marine food web.

NetworkExtinction is a compact and easy‐to‐use R package with which users can quantify changes in ecological network structure in response to different patterns of species loss, thresholds and rewiring potential. Therefore, this package is particularly useful for evaluating ecosystem responses to anthropogenic and environmental perturbations that produce nonrandom and sometimes targeted, species extinctions.
Exploiting volatile organic compounds in crop protection: A systematic review of 1‐octen‐3‐ol and 3‐octanone
Authors: Tonks Aimee J. , Roberts Joe M. , Midthassel Audun , Pope Tom
Published: June 2023

The 21st century has brought new challenges to the agri‐food industry due to population growth, global warming, and greater public awareness of environmental issues. Ensuring global food security for future generations is crucial. However, pests, weeds, and diseases still significantly contribute to crop losses, and the availability of effective conventional synthetic pesticides is decreasing. To address this, new and diverse pest management tools are needed. One pest management tool showing potential for invertebrate pest management is the exploitation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—in particular, the compounds 1‐octen‐3‐ol and 3‐octanone. This review aims to explore the extent to which 1‐octen‐3‐ol and 3‐octanone show potential in the future management of invertebrate crop and animal pests. A significant increase in the rate of publication of literature on the use of 1‐octen‐3‐ol and 3‐octanone in crop protection since 2018 is identified by this review, therefore, showing the potential importance of these compounds for use in future pest management. This review also identifies key interactions between naturally occurring biosynthesised 1‐octen‐3‐ol and 3‐octanone, and a range of invertebrate targets. Many of these interactions with key crop pests are sourced from the taxonomic families Lamiaceae, Fabaceae, and Trichomaceae. However, analysis of the practical application of these sources in an integrated pest management programme identifies clear limitations with the use of naturally occurring biosynthesised 1‐octen‐3‐ol and 3‐octanone. Rather, future focus should be placed on the development and exploitation of synthesised nature identical 1‐octen‐3‐ol and 3‐octanone for use as a biopesticide product. Overall, 1‐octen‐3‐ol and 3‐octanone show potential for exploitation in future crop protection, being abundant in source and diversity of invertebrate interactions. However, their use as a naturally occurring biosynthesised chemical is likely not practical for direct implementation in crop protection. Rather, focus should be placed on the development and exploitation of synthesised nature identical variants of these compounds for use as a biopesticide.
Prevention of cleft lip and/or palate in A/J mice by licorice solution
Authors: Chimedtseren Ichinnorov , Niimi Teruyuki , Inoue Makoto , Furukawa Hiroo , Imura Hideto , Minami Katsuhiro , Garidkhuu Ariuntuul , Gantugs Anar‐Erdene , Natsume Nagato
Published: June 2023

Cleft lip and/or palate anomalies (CL ± P) are the most frequent birth defects affecting the orofacial region in humans. Although their etiology remains unclear, the involvement of environmental and genetic risk factors is known. This observational study aimed to investigate how the use of  crude drugs with estrogen activity influenced an animal model's ability to prevent CL ± P. A/J mice were randomly divided into six experimental groups. Five of these groups consumed a drink containing crude drug licorice root extract, with the following weights attributed to each group: 3 g in group I, 6 g in group II, 7.5 g in group III, 9 g in group IV, and 12 g in group V, whereas a control group consumed tap water. The effect of licorice extract was examined for fetal mortality and fetal orofacial cleft development compared to the control group. The rates for fetal mortality were 11.28%, 7.41%, 9.18%, 4.94%, and 7.90% in groups I, II, III, IV, and V, respectively, compared to 13.51% in the control group. There were no significant differences in the mean weight of alive fetuses in all five groups compared to the control group (0.63 ± 0.12). Group IV showed the lowest orafacial cleft occurrence of 3.20% (8 fetuses) with statistical significance (p = 0.0048) out of 268 live fetuses, whereas the control group had the occurrence of 8.75% (42 fetuses) among 480 live fetuses. Our study showed that the dried licorice root extract may reduce orofacial birth defects in experimental animal studies.
Effects of crown contour on artificial biofilm removal efficacy with interdental cleaning aids: An in vitro study
Authors: Sirinirund Benyapha , Siqueira Rafael , Li Junying , Mendonça Gustavo , Zalucha Janet , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of various interdental cleaning aids for artificial biofilm removal on different implant‐supported crown designs.

Methods

Mandibular models with missing first molar were fabricated and installed with single implant analogs and loaded with crowns of different designs (concave, straight, and convex). Artificial biofilm was made with occlusion spray. Thirty volunteers (periodontists, dental hygienists, and laypersons) were asked to clean the interproximal areas. The crowns were unscrewed and photographed in a standardized setting. The outcome was measured by the cleaning ratio which represents the cleaned surfaces in relation to the area of the tested surface.

Results

A significant difference in favor of concave crown (p < .001) on the basal surface was cleaned by all tools, except the water flosser. There was evidence of an overall effect of “cleaning tool,” “surface,” and “crown design” (p < .0001) except for the “participant” factor. The mean cleaning ratio for each cleaning tool and overall combined surfaces were (in%): dental floss: 43.02 ± 23.93, superfloss: 42.51 ± 25.92, electric interspace brush: 36.21 ± 18.78, interdental brush: 29.10 ± 15.95, and electric water flosser: 9.72 ± 8.14. Dental floss and superfloss were significantly better (p < .05) than other tools in removing plaque.

Conclusions

Concave crown contour had the greatest artificial biofilm removal, followed by straight and convex crowns at the basal surface. Dental floss and superfloss were the most effective interdental cleaning devices for artificial biofilm removal. None of the tested cleaning devices were able to completely remove the artificial biofilm from the interproximal/basal surfaces.
Single‐cellRNA‐sequencing analysis reveals enhanced non‐canonical neurotrophic factor signaling in the subacute phase of traumatic brain injury
Authors: Qiu Xuecheng , Guo Yaling , Liu Ming‐Feng , Zhang Bingge , Li Jingzhen , Wei Jian‐Feng , Li Meng
Published: June 2023

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of long‐term disability in young adults and induces complex neuropathological processes. Cellular autonomous and intercellular changes during the subacute phase contribute substantially to the neuropathology of TBI. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, we explored the dysregulated cellular signaling during the subacute phase of TBI.

Methods

Single‐cell RNA‐sequencing data (GSE160763) of TBI were analyzed to explore the cell–cell communication in the subacute phase of TBI. Upregulated neurotrophic factor signaling was validated in a mouse model of TBI. Primary cell cultures and cell lines were used as in vitro models to examine the potential mechanisms affecting signaling.

Results

Single‐cell RNA‐sequencing analysis revealed that microglia and astrocytes were the most affected cells during the subacute phase of TBI. Cell–cell communication analysis demonstrated that signaling mediated by the non‐canonical neurotrophic factors midkine (MDK), pleiotrophin (PTN), and prosaposin (PSAP) in the microglia/astrocytes was upregulated in the subacute phase of TBI. Time‐course profiling showed that MDK, PTN, and PSAP expression was primarily upregulated in the subacute phase of TBI, and astrocytes were the major source of MDK and PTN after TBI. In vitro studies revealed that the expression of MDK, PTN, and PSAP in astrocytes was enhanced by activated microglia. Moreover, MDK and PTN promoted the proliferation of neural progenitors derived from human‐induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and neurite growth in iPSC‐derived neurons, whereas PSAP exclusively stimulated neurite growth.

Conclusion

The non‐canonical neurotrophic factors MDK, PTN, and PSAP were upregulated in the subacute phase of TBI and played a crucial role in neuroregeneration.
Comprehensive analyses of brain cell communications based on multiple scRNA‐seq and snRNA‐seq datasets for revealing novel mechanism in neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Zhang Chunlong , Tan Guiyuan , Zhang Yuxi , Zhong Xiaoling , Zhao Ziyan , Peng Yunyi , Cheng Qian , Xue Ke , Xu Yanjun , Li Xia , Li Feng , Zhang Yunpeng
Published: June 2023

Aims

Complex cellular communications between glial cells and neurons are critical for brain normal function and disorders, and single‐cell level RNA‐sequencing datasets display more advantages for analyzing cell communications. Therefore, it is necessary to systematically explore brain cell communications when considering factors such as sex and brain region.

Methods

We extracted a total of 1,039,459 cells derived from 28 brain single‐cell RNA‐sequencing (scRNA‐seq) or single‐nucleus RNA‐sequencing (snRNA‐seq) datasets from the GEO database, including 12 human and 16 mouse datasets. These datasets were further divided into 71 new sub‐datasets when considering disease, sex, and region conditions. In the meanwhile, we integrated four methods to evaluate ligand–receptor interaction score among six major brain cell types (microglia, neuron, astrocyte, oligodendrocyte, OPC, and endothelial cell).

Results

For Alzheimer's disease (AD), disease‐specific ligand–receptor pairs when compared with normal sub‐datasets, such as SEMA4A‐NRP1, were identified. Furthermore, we explored the sex‐ and region‐specific cell communications and identified that WNT5A‐ROR1 among microglia cells displayed close communications in male, and SPP1‐ITGAV displayed close communications in the meninges region from microglia to neurons. Furthermore, based on the AD‐specific cell communications, we constructed a model for AD early prediction and confirmed the predictive performance using multiple independent datasets. Finally, we developed an online platform for researchers to explore brain condition‐specific cell communications.

Conclusion

This research provided a comprehensive study to explore brain cell communications, which could reveal novel biological mechanisms involved in normal brain function and neurodegenerative diseases such as AD.
A preliminary transcriptomic analysis of the orbitofrontal cortex of antisocial individuals
Authors: Piras Ignazio S. , Braccagni Giulia , Huentelman Matthew J. , Bortolato Marco
Published: June 2023

Aims

Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) and conduct disorder (CD) are characterized by a persistent pattern of violations of societal norms and others' rights. Ample evidence shows that the pathophysiology of these disorders is contributed by orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) alterations, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. To address this knowledge gap, we performed the first‐ever RNA sequencing study of postmortem OFC samples from subjects with a lifetime diagnosis of ASPD and/or CD.

Methods

The transcriptomic profiles of OFC samples from subjects with ASPD and/or CD were compared to those of unaffected age‐matched controls (n = 9/group).

Results

The OFC of ASPD/CD‐affected subjects displayed significant differences in the expression of 328 genes. Further gene‐ontology analyses revealed an extensive downregulation of excitatory neuron transcripts and upregulation of astrocyte transcripts. These alterations were paralleled by significant modifications in synaptic regulation and glutamatergic neurotransmission pathways.

Conclusion

These preliminary findings suggest that ASPD and CD feature a complex array of functional deficits in the pyramidal neurons and astrocytes of the OFC. In turn, these aberrances may contribute to the reduced OFC connectivity observed in antisocial subjects. Future analyses on larger cohorts are needed to validate these results.
USP14 inhibition promotes recovery by protecting BBB integrity and attenuating neuroinflammation in MCAO mice
Authors: Hou Wenzhong , Yao Jianping , Liu Junjie , Lin Xiaohong , Wei JueXian , Yin Xiaofan , Huang Hongbiao , Chen Xiaohui , Yang Guo‐Yuan , He Xiaosong
Published: June 2023

Aim

Blood–brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction is one of the hallmarks of ischemic stroke. USP14 has been reported to play a detrimental role in ischemic brain injury. However, the role of USP14 in BBB dysfunction after ischemic stroke is unclear.

Methods

In this study, we tested the role of USP14 in disrupting BBB integrity after ischemic stroke. The USP14‐specific inhibitor IU1 was injected into middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) mice once a day. The Evans blue (EB) assay and IgG staining were used to assess BBB leakage 3 days after MCAO. FITC‐detran test was slected to examine the BBB leakage in vitro. Behavior tests were conducted to evaluate recovery from ischemic stroke.

Results

Middle cerebral artery occlusion increased endothelial cell USP14 expression in the brain. Furthermore, the EB assay and IgG staining showed that USP14 inhibition through IU1 injection protected against BBB leakage after MCAO. Analysis of protein expression revealed a reduction in the inflammatory response and chemokine release after IU1 treatment. In addition, IU1 treatment was found to rescue neuronal loss resulting from ischemic stroke. Behavior tests showed a positive effect of IU1 in attenuating brain injury and improving motor function recovery. In vitro study showed that IU1 treatment could alleviate endothelial cell leakage induced by OGD in cultured bend.3 cells through modulating ZO‐1 expression.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate a role for USP14 in disrupting the integrity of the BBB and promoting neuroinflammation after MCAO.
Association of stigma, diabetes distress and self‐efficacy with quality of life in adolescents with type 1 diabetes preparing to transition to adult care
Authors: Soufi Arij , Mok Elise , Henderson Mélanie , Dasgupta Kaberi , Rahme Elham , Nakhla Meranda
Published: June 2023

Aims

In type 1 diabetes (T1D), psychosocial factors may impact quality of life (QOL) and clinical outcomes, but remain understudied, particularly during late adolescence. Our aim was to determine whether stigma, diabetes distress and self‐efficacy are associated with QOL in adolescents with T1D as they are preparing to transition to adult care.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of adolescents (ages 16–17 years) with T1D participating in the Group Education Trial to Improve Transition (GET‐IT) in Montreal, Canada. Participants completed validated questionnaires on stigma using the Barriers to Diabetes Adherence (BDA) stigma subscale, self‐efficacy (Self‐Efficacy for Diabetes Self‐Management Measure [SEDM], score 1–10), diabetes distress (Diabetes Distress Scale for Adults with type 1 diabetes) and QOL (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory [PedsQL] 4.0 Generic Core Scale and PedsQL 3.2 Diabetes Module). We examined associations of stigma, diabetes distress and self‐efficacy with QOL using multivariate linear regression models adjusted for sex, diabetes duration, socioeconomic status and HbA1c.

Results

Of 128 adolescents with T1D, 76 (59%) self‐reported having the diabetes‐related stigma and 29 (22.7%) reported experiencing diabetes distress. Those with stigma had lower diabetes‐specific and general QOL scores compared with those without stigma, and stigma and diabetes distress were both associated with lower diabetes‐specific QOL and lower general QOL. Self‐efficacy was associated with higher diabetes‐specific and general QOL.

Conclusions

Stigma and diabetes distress are associated with lower QOL, whereas self‐efficacy is associated with higher QOL in adolescents with T1D preparing to transfer to adult care.
Effect of four plant extracts on the mortality, population growth, and fluctuating asymmetry of Sitophilus oryzae
Authors: Ačanski Jelena , Gvozdenac Sonja , Radenković Marko , Prvulović Dejan , Tanasković Snežana , Horvatović Mladen
Published: June 2023

Management of storage pest insects relies heavily on chemical control, and there is a need to develop more sustainable management practices. Here, we evaluated the impact of 2% ethanol plant extracts of Ajuga reptans L., Ajuga pyramidalis L. (both Lamiaceae), Urtica dioica L. (Urticaceae), and Cannabis sativa L. (Cannabaceae) plants on mortality, population growth, and developmental stability [measuring fluctuating asymmetry (FA)] of the rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae (L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a worldwide stored product pest. FA refers to small, random deviations occurring between the left and right sides of bilaterally symmetrical organisms; these deviations increase in response to environmental stress, making FA a reliable method to measure the impact of stress. FA was measured by means of geometric morphometrics, a method that allows for analyzing the whole landmark configuration of the insect, rather than taking single measurements. Extracts of the mentioned plants were used to treat maize (Zea mays L., Poaceae) kernels on which experimental populations of the rice weevil were grown, and we assessed mortality after 24–72 h, population growth after 30–90 days, and developmental stability after 90 days. Screening bioassays showed that S. oryzae adults were most affected by Ajuga extracts; Ajuga spp., especially A. reptans, significantly reduced population growth. In concordance, Ajuga extracts increased FA. The effects of U. dioica and C. sativa extract were less pronounced. None of the extracts significantly affected insect mortality. Overall, it can be concluded that A. reptans and A. pyramidalis are potential sources of bioactive compounds that may be further used for S. oryzae control. The results obtained confirm that variation in body shape asymmetry can be used as an indicator of population disturbance when insects are exposed to different types of stressors.
Random fatigue life analysis of carbon fiber‐reinforced plastic for automotive drive shaft with environment temperature data
Authors: Yang Xizhou , Liu Xintian , Wang Jinbo
Published: June 2023

Automotive drive shaft is an indispensable key component of the transmission system, and the use of composite drive shafts has shown great promise. The epoxy matrix of the shaft is susceptible to the effects of temperature in comparison to carbon fiber. To investigate the influence of the environmental temperature on the fatigue life of a carbon fiber‐reinforced plastic drive shaft, a temperature‐based property curve and performance fraction model for the shaft are established. The temperature coefficient is calculated and introduced by combining the collected temperature data with the property fraction function. A generalized S‐N surface of the composite drive shaft is proposed based on experimental data. The fatigue life under collected and processed random loads of the carbon fiber‐reinforced plastic drive shaft is predicted by modified Miner's law. The effect of mean, amplitude of load and ambient temperature on fatigue life are taken into account.
Pre‐medical assessment of root–canal–filled teeth with asymptomatic apical periodontitis—A multifaceted balancing act
Authors: Olsson Jenny , Wolf Eva , Ljunggren Anna
Published: June 2023

Aim

Prior to certain medical therapies, dental assessment and treatment of oral foci of infection are recommended. The aim of the present study was to acquire a deeper understanding of the decision‐making process regarding the pre‐medical management of root–canal–filled teeth with asymptomatic apical periodontitis (AAP).

Methodology

Hospital‐affiliated dentists in Sweden were contacted for a semi‐structured, in‐depth interview. The absolute inclusion criterion was that the dentists had experienced and could recount at least two authentic cases involving root–canal–filled teeth with AAP—one case having resulted in pre‐medical treatment, and one having resulted in expectancy. Fourteen interviews, with fourteen informants, were conducted and included in the study. During the interviews, open‐ended questions and comments encouraging the informants to elaborate and clarify their experiences were offered. The interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using Qualitative Content Analysis with an inductive approach.

Results

A theme describing the latent content was identified through interpretation of the collected data: A multifaceted balancing act characterized by a sometimes‐difficult risk–benefit‐estimation, where an increased uncertainty entails an increased reliance on external opinions. Three main categories, comprising four sub‐categories, describing the manifest content were recognized: The tipping scale, The team effort and The frame of reference.

Conclusions

The current interview study found pre‐medical decision‐making regarding root–canal–filled teeth with AAP to be a multifactorial and contextual process marked by uncertainty and collaborative measures. Further research, resulting in the development of evidence‐based treatment guidelines, is suggested necessary.
Building professional holding environments for crowd work job crafting through online communities
Authors: Strunk Kim Simon , Strich Franz
Published: June 2023

Work is increasingly being organised via online platforms outside guiding organisational structures. Instead of having colleagues at work, crowd workers connect in online communities. We investigate how crowd workers build professional holding environments in online communities to compensate for the lack of organisational structures and we consider how they craft their crowd work activities to enhance their work experience and reduce its long‐term precarity. Following a qualitative research design, this paper uses 675 forum interactions collected across six online communities. Based on our findings, we propose the concept of professional holding environments and provide a model for building such holding environments and job crafting in online communities. We thereby expand previous research on holding environments comprised of family members and friends by revealing the impact of professional online communities and their role in professionalisation and crafting supportive social structures in online crowd work.
Lifting Stress from the Day: A Women's Well‐Being Online Community Art Project
Authors: Tutchell Suzy
Published: June 2023

This article tells the story of a university community engagement project that began in the late spring of 2020 when the world went into lockdown. Increased concern over women's welfare and well‐being was brought into question in relation to those who are vulnerable with complex needs and had suffered societal‐induced hardships. In conjunction with an innovative women's community project, this study considered the value of art‐based online support as a platform from which to offer a non‐judgemental and mindful space with a focus on identity and empowerment. The study is based on weekly art drop‐in online workshops for vulnerable women and considers the value of hybrid ‘spaces’ as a pedagogical and practical model of communicative support and collective care. Findings from this community‐engaged project highlight the responses and shifts within subjectivities through situated art experiences. As art educators, it offers us an understanding of the potential for cumulative and affective artmaking to build communities of care as an inclusive and emancipatory learning tool.
Transcriptomic analyses revealed detoxification genes responsive to solanine treatment in Phthorimaea operculella
Authors: Yan Han , Dong Wenbo , Wang Yuquan , Ning Hengheng , Gao Yulin , Li Fen , Wu Shaoying
Published: June 2023

Phthorimaea operculella attacks potatoes worldwide, causing great losses in potatoes' quantity and quality. P. operculella feed on potatoes with a relatively high concentration of steroidal glycoalkaloids called solanine, which potatoes produce as secondary metabolites. The potential genes involved in solanine‐induced response in P. operculella were identified by performing next‐generation sequencing and Illumina RNA‐seq analysis on solanine‐treated P. operculella to explore differentially expressed genes. Four major families of detoxification enzymes were identified, including 71 cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYPs), 22 glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs), 58 esterases (ESTs) and 16 UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs). The Illumina RNA‐Seq data showed 2875 and 1625 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the P. operculella larvae after exposure to the LC25 and LC75 of solanine compared with the untreated controls. Furthermore, 21 upregulated DEGs, including 13 CYPs, 3 GSTs, 4 ESTs and 1 UGT, and 20 downregulated DEGs, including 5 CYPs, 3 GSTs, 9 ESTs and 3 UGTs, were detoxification genes that may be related to solanine‐induced response and needed to be further verified. The RT‐qPCR results among the six upregulated P450 unigenes after solanine treatment were consistent with RNA‐Seq data, confirming the accuracy and reproducibility of the gene expression profiles generated from RNA‐seq. This study provides new information about the detoxification genes involved in solanine‐induced response in P. operculella.
Description of a new moray eel (Anguilliformes: Muraenidae) from the Philippines, with a preliminary assessment of genetic and morphological variations of the Uropterygius concolor species complex
Authors: Huang Wen‐Chien , Balisco Rodulf Anthony , Evacitas Florence Chan , Liao Te‐Yu
Published: June 2023

Uropterygius concolor Rüppell, the type species of the genus Uropterygius, is a small, uniformly brown moray considered to be widely distributed in the Indo‐Pacific region. However, a recent study indicated that the real U. concolor is currently known only from the type locality in the Red Sea, and species recorded outside the Red Sea may represent a species complex that comprises several species. In this study, we assess the genetic and morphological variations of this species complex based on available data. Analyses of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I sequences revealed at least six distinct genetic lineages recognized under ‘U. concolor’. After carefully comparing the morphologies, one of the lineages is described herein as a new species, Uropterygius mactanensis sp. nov., based on 21 specimens collected from Mactan Island, Cebu, Philippines. Another distinct lineage is considered to be a possibly undescribed species based on diagnostic morphological characters. Although the taxonomic status of junior synonyms of U. concolor and some lineages still remain unresolved, this study provides informative morphological characters (i.e., tail length, trunk length, vertebrae number, and arrangement of teeth) that can be used in future studies on this species complex.
Nephrocalcinosis in juvenile farmed Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) may be linked to osmoregulatory stress
Authors: Klykken C. , Khan E. , Karlsen C. , Reed A. K. , Attramadal K. J. K. , Olsen R. E. , Boissonnot L.
Published: June 2023

Nephrocalcinosis is a widespread challenge in intensive production of salmon smolt. There is however no consensus on its aetiology, which makes it problematic to implement proper measures to limit its development. We performed a survey of nephrocalcinosis prevalence and environmental factors in 11 different hatcheries in Mid‐Norway as well as a 6‐month monitoring in one of the hatcheries. A multivariate analysis indicated that the most influencing factor for the prevalence of nephrocalcinosis was the supplementation of sea water during smolt production. In the 6‐month monitoring, the hatchery introduced salinity in the production water prior to the change in day length. Mismatch in those environmental signals may increase the risk for developing nephrocalcinosis. Salinity fluctuations prior to smoltification can cause osmotic stress and result in unbalanced levels of ions in fish blood. This was clearly illustrated in our study, as the fish experienced chronic hypercalcaemia and hypermagnesaemia. Both magnesium and calcium are excreted over the kidneys and it is possible that their prolonged, elevated levels in plasma resulted in an oversaturation of the urine when finally excreted. This again could have led to the aggregation of calcium deposits within the kidney. This study indicates a relationship between osmotic stress induced by salinity changes in juvenile Atlantic salmon and the development of nephrocalcinosis. Other factors that may affect the severity of nephrocalcinosis are currently subjects for discussion.
Attitudes toward children: Distinguishing affection and stress
Authors: Wolf Lukas J. , Costin Vlad , Iosifyan Marina , Thorne Sapphira R. , Nolan Alexander , Foad Colin , Webb Elspeth , Karremans Johan , Haddock Geoffrey , Maio Gregory R.
Published: June 2023

Background

Adults' views and behaviors toward children can vary from being supportive to shockingly abusive, and there are significant unanswered questions about the psychological factors underpinning this variability.

Objective

The present research examined the content of adults' attitudes toward children to address these questions.

Method

Ten studies (N = 4702) identified the factor structure of adults' descriptions of babies, toddlers, and school‐age children and examined how the resulting factors related to a range of external variables.

Results

Two factors emerged—affection toward children and stress elicited by them—and this factor structure was invariant across the United Kingdom, the United States, and South Africa. Affection uniquely captures emotional approach tendencies, concern for others, and broad positivity in evaluations, experiences, motivations, and donation behavior. Stress relates to emotional instability, emotional avoidance, and concern about disruptions to a self‐oriented, structured life. The factors also predict distinct experiences in a challenging situation—home‐parenting during COVID‐19 lockdown—with affection explaining greater enjoyment and stress explaining greater perceived difficulty. Affection further predicts mentally visualizing children as pleasant and confident, whereas stress predicts mentally visualizing children as less innocent.

Conclusions

These findings offer fundamental new insights about social cognitive processes in adults that impact adult–child relationships and children's well‐being.
Personality traits as identity threat cues: Stigmatized perceivers infer prejudice from disagreeableness
Authors: Maimon Melanie R. , Sanchez Diana T. , Rodriguez Siris , Albuja Analia F.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Across four studies, we examined whether certain personality traits cue prejudice and serve as identity threat cues.

Background

Stigmatized group members may be vigilant to personality cues that signal prejudice.

Method

In Study 1 (N = 76), perceivers selected traits and behaviors associated with disagreeableness and closedness to experience as indicators of prejudice. In Studies 2–4, perceivers with stigmatized identities (Total N = 907) learned about a target person who was depicted as disagreeable or agreeable (Studies 2 and 3) and as disagreeable or another trait matched on perceived negativity (i.e., low in conscientiousness, Study 4).

Results

Participants perceived the disagreeable target as more discriminatory and hierarchy‐endorsing (Studies 2–4), more morally disengaged (Study 3), and more likely to discriminate against stigmatized identity groups (Studies 2 and 4) than the agreeable or low conscientious targets. The relationship between target disagreeableness and perceived discrimination was partially explained by higher perceived hierarchy endorsing beliefs (Studies 2–4) and perceived moral disengagement (Study 3).

Conclusions

This research finds that perceivers with stigmatized identities utilize target disagreeableness as a cue of identity threat, inferring that disagreeable people are more likely to be discriminatory, prejudicial, and hierarchy‐endorsing than agreeable and low conscientious people.
Genetic risk of fatty liver disease and mortality in the general population: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Gellert‐Kristensen Helene , Tybjærg‐Hansen Anne , Nordestgaard Børge G. , Ghouse Jonas , Fuchs Andreas , Kühl Jørgen T. , Sigvardsen Per E. , Kofoed Klaus F. , Stender Stefan
Published: June 2023

Background & Aims

Fatty liver disease has been associated with higher all‐cause as well as liver‐related, ischemic heart disease (IHD)‐related and extrahepatic cancer‐related mortality in observational epidemiological studies. We tested the hypothesis that fatty liver disease is a causal risk factor for higher mortality.

Methods

We genotyped seven genetic variants known to be associated with fatty liver disease (in PNPLA3, TM6SF2, HSD17B13, MTARC1, MBOAT7, GCKR, and GPAM) in 110 913 individuals from the Danish general population. Hepatic steatosis was measured by hepatic computed tomography in n = 6965. Using a Mendelian randomization framework, we tested whether genetically proxied hepatic steatosis and/or elevated plasma alanine transaminase (ALT) was associated with liver‐related mortality.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 9.5 years, 16 119 individuals died. In observational analyses, baseline elevated plasma ALT was associated with higher all‐cause (1.26‐fold), liver‐related (9‐fold), and extrahepatic cancer‐related (1.25‐fold) mortality. In genetic analyses, the risk alleles in PNPLA3, TM6SF2, and HSD17B13 were individually associated with higher liver‐related mortality. The largest effects were seen for the PNPLA3 and TM6SF2 risk alleles, for which homozygous carriers had 3‐fold and 6‐fold, respectively, higher liver‐related mortality than non‐carriers. None of the risk alleles, individually or combined into risk scores, were robustly associated with all‐cause, IHD‐related, or extrahepatic cancer‐related mortality. In instrumental variable analyses, genetically proxied hepatic steatosis and higher plasma ALT were associated with liver‐related mortality.

Conclusions

Human genetic data support that fatty liver disease is a causal driver of liver‐related mortality.
IsμCTirradiation nondestructive? A noble gas study on matrix samples from theCV3chondrite Allende
Authors: Ghaznavi Parastoo , Kadlag Yogita , Haberthür David , Hlushchuk Ruslan , Leya Ingo
Published: June 2023

Micro‐computed tomography (μCT) is a fast and powerful technology for studying textural, physical, and chemical properties of solid objects in three dimensions. While regularly used for sample documentation and curation, it is often assumed that μCT techniques are essentially nondestructive or at least very little destructive. However, there are very few studies proving or rejecting the assumption of nondestructiveness. Here we study whether X‐ray tomographic imaging affects the noble gas budget of matrix samples from the CV3 carbonaceous chondrite Allende. We irradiated powdered and homogenized matrix samples in the Bruker SkyScan 1272 μCT instrument at three different X‐ray tube acceleration voltages of 30, 70, and 100 keV. By comparing the noble gas concentrations and especially the elemental and isotopic ratios of the irradiated samples with data for two non‐irradiated aliquots, we found no significant differences. Our study therefore demonstrates that X‐ray tomographic imaging has no measurable effect on the noble gas budget and can therefore safely be used for sample characterization prior to noble gas studies.
Al Huwaysah 010: The most reduced brachinite, so far
Authors: Carli Cristian , Barbaro Anna , Murri Mara , Domeneghetti Maria Chiara , Langone Antonio , Bruschini Enrico , Stephant Alice , Alvaro Matteo , Stefani Stefania , Cuppone Tiberio , Casalini Martina , Migliorini Alessandra , Roush Ted L. , Pratesi Giovanni
Published: June 2023

Al Huwaysah 010 is an ungrouped achondrite meteorite, recently referred to as a brachinite‐like meteorite. This meteorite, showing a fine‐grained assemblage of low‐Ca pyroxene and opaque phases, is strongly reduced in comparison to other reduced brachinites. The occurrence of some tiny plates of graphite and oldhamite in this meteorite suggests that a partial melt residue has experienced a further reduction process. Olivine, the most abundant phase, is compositionally homogeneous (Fo83.3) as well as the clinopyroxene (En45.5Fs10.8Wo43.7) and the plagioclase (Ab69.5). Orthopyroxene (En85.4Fs13.9Wo0.7) also occurs but only in a fine intergrowth. Other accessory phases are Fe metal grains (Ni‐free or Cr‐bearing Fe‐Ni alloy), troilite, chlorapatite, pentlandite (as inclusions in chromite). The sample shows two different closure temperatures: the highest (≈900°C) is determined via the olivine–chromite intercrystalline geothermometer and the lowest temperature (≈520°C) is determined via the pyroxene‐based intracrystalline geothermometer. These temperatures may represent, respectively, the closure temperature associated with the formation and a subsequent impact event excavating the sample from the parental body. The visible to near‐infrared (VNIR) reflectance spectra of Al Huwaysah 010 exhibit low reflectance, consistent with the presence of darkening components, and weak absorptions indicative of olivine and pyroxene. Comparing the spectral parameters of Al Huwaysah 010 to potential parent bodies characterized by olivine–pyroxene mineralogy, we find that it falls within the field previously attributed to the SIII type asteroids. These results lead us to classify the Al Huwaysah 010 meteorite as the most reduced brachinite, whose VNIR spectral features show strong affinities with those of SIII asteroids.