bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speaking the language of defence: narratives of doctoral examiners on the PhD viva
Authors: Tan Wee Chun
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate doctoral examiners' narratives on their expectations of the candidate's oral performance in the PhD viva. Both the PhD examiners and handbooks that offer advice on the PhD viva preparation appear to share the same expectation of the candidate's oral performance in the viva. That is, candidates must answer questions to the satisfaction of examiners to warrant a pass in the oral examination. However, what constitutes a satisfactory viva performance – let alone an excellent one – is often undefined.

Design/methodology/approach

Using narrative inquiry as the guiding research approach to investigate this issue, 12 experienced doctoral examiners from across the disciplines at a Malaysian research university were interviewed. Their narratives were analysed inductively.

Findings

The findings show that examiners expect candidates to speak the language of defence by manifesting confident, interactional behaviour, providing credible and convincing responses and displaying doctoralness. The aspects of candidate's oral performance undesired by the examiners, as well as the reasons for having such expectations, are also discussed. The paper argues that the expectations of examiners in the PhD viva should be made explicit and communicated to the candidates and examiners to ensure a positive doctoral assessment process and outcome.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature on doctoral assessment, particularly on the PhD viva, through the voices of examiners in the Global South. It also offers an examiner expectancy model of the PhD viva.
Seismic impedance inversion using a multi‐input neural network with a two‐step training strategy
Authors: Meng Jinyu , Wang Shoudong , Niu Guohua , Sang Wenjing , Geng Weiheng , Cheng Wanli
Published: May 2022

Deep learning has shown excellent performance in simulating complex nonlinear mappings from the seismic data to elastic parameters. However, seismic acoustic impedance estimated from a direct mapping from seismic waveform data to P‐wave impedance (single‐input network) is hampered by the limited frequency bands. In this paper, we propose to incorporate the low‐frequency impedance model to constrain the inversion (multi‐input network). We add a feature fusion layer to force the lateral smoothness. Besides, usually, a given seismic survey is likely to contain only a few well logs, which is insufficient for conventional deep‐learning ‐based methods to learn the complex mapping from seismic data to elastic parameters. The problem is compounded by the fact that a network trained with synthetic data (compensated for the lack of logs) cannot be directly used for field data. Therefore, we propose to use transfer learning to mitigate this issue. The multi‐input neural network is trained using synthetics and real data in two stages. We carry out experiments to demonstrate that the two‐step training multi‐input network approach has high accuracy in the time direction, excellent continuity in the lateral direction and favourable robustness. Synthetic and field data examples demonstrate that the proposed network can accurately predict impedance even with limited logging data, which provides a reference for oil and gas exploration in the actual production process.
Nicotine‐conditioned place preference, reversal learning and social interaction in MK‐801‐induced schizophrenia model: Effects of post‐weaning enriched environment
Authors: Salmani Neda , Nozari Masoumeh , Parvan Mahdieh , Amini‐Sardouei Sara , Shabani Mohammad , Khaksari Mohammad , Ezzatabadipour Massood
Published: May 2022

Based on the clinical observations of severe cognitive deficits in schizophrenia patients and the relationship between environmental parameters and the severity of schizophrenia symptoms, the present study investigated these parameters in an dizocilpine (MK‐801)‐induced schizophrenia model in rats. In addition to, it evaluated whether a post‐weaning enriched environment (EE) would affect the nicotine‐induced conditioned place preference (CPP) and the motor and cognitive deficits caused by MK‐801 treatment. Male Wistar rat pups were injected peritoneally with MK‐801 (1 mg/kg) on a daily basis between the 6th and the 10th postnatal days (P) and were exposed to either an enriched or a standard cage from P21 until the end of the experiments. The rats were evaluated in open‐field and three‐chamber social interaction tests. Moreover, spatial and reversal learning was assessed by the Morris water maze (MWM). The animals were conditioned with 0.6 mg/kg nicotine and tested for CPP. Increased self‐grooming, exploratory behaviour, potentiated nicotine‐CPP and decreased social behaviours, delayed spatial learning and memory and impaired reversal learning in the water maze were observed in the MK‐801 treatment group. Housing in an EE improved cognitive and behavioural deficits associated with postnatal MK‐801 treatment. The results suggested that neonatal N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor hypofunction may cause susceptibility to these behaviours and indicated the importance of environmental conditions in the development of schizophrenia and probably other neuropsychiatric disorders.
UV‐B‐induced DNA damage and repair pathways in polar Pseudogymnoascus sp. from the Arctic and Antarctic regions and their effects on growth, pigmentation and conidiogenesis
Authors: Wong Hao Jie , Mohamad‐Fauzi Nuradilla , Rizman‐Idid Mohammed , Convey Peter , Smykla Jerzy , Alias Siti Aisyah
Published: May 2022

Solar radiation regulates most biological activities on Earth. Prolonged exposure to solar UV radiation can cause deleterious effects by inducing two major types of DNA damage, namely, cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) and pyrimidine 6‐4 pyrimidone photoproducts. These lesions may be repaired by the photoreactivation (Phr) and nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathways; however, the principal UV‐induced DNA repair pathway is not known in the fungal genus Pseudogymnoascus. In this study, we demonstrated that an unweighted UV‐B dosage of 1.6 kJ m−2 d−1 significantly reduced fungal growth rates (by between 22% and 35%) and inhibited conidia production in a 10 d exposure. The comparison of two DNA repair conditions, light or dark, which respectively induced photoreactivation (Phr) and NER, showed that the UV‐B‐induced CPDs were repaired significantly more rapidly in light than in dark conditions. The expression levels of two DNA repair genes, RAD2 and PHR1 (encoding a protein in NER and Phr respectively), demonstrated that NER rather than Phr was primarily activated for repairing UV‐B‐induced DNA damage in these Pseudogymnoascus strains. In contrast, Phr was inhibited after exposure to UV‐B radiation, suggesting that PHR1 may have other functional roles. We present the first study to examine the capability of the Arctic and Antarctic Pseudogymnoascus sp. to perform photoreactivation and/or NER via RT‐qPCR approaches, and also clarify the effects of light on UV‐B‐induced DNA damage repair in vivo by quantifying cyclobutene pyrimidine dimers and pyrimidine 6‐4 pyrimidone photoproducts. Physiological response data, including relative growth rate, pigmentation and conidia production in these Pseudogymnoascus isolates exposed to UV‐B radiation are also presented.
Lysine 2‐hydroxyisobutyrylation orchestrates cell development and aflatoxin biosynthesis in Aspergillus flavus
Authors: Lv Yangyong , Wang Jing , Yang Haojie , Li Na , Farzaneh Mohsen , Wei Shan , Zhai Huanchen , Zhang Shuaibing , Hu Yuansen
Published: May 2022

Lysine 2‐hydroxyisobutyrylation (Khib) is a recently identified post‐translational modification (PTM) that regulates numerous cellular metabolic processes. In pathogenic microorganism, although glycolysis and fungal virulence are regulated by Khib, its potential roles in fungi remain to be elusive. Our preliminary results showed that levels of Khib fluctuate over time in Aspergillus flavus, which frequently contaminates crops and produces carcinogenic aflatoxins. However, the perception of Khib function in A. flavus is limited, especially in mycotoxin‐producing strains. Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis of Khib in A. flavus, and 7156 Khib sites were identified in 1473 proteins. Notably, we demonstrated that Khib of AflM, a key enzyme in aflatoxin biosynthesis, affected conidia production and sclerotia formation. Furthermore, aflM deletion impaired aflatoxin biosynthesis, and more importantly, strains in which Khib was mimicked by K to T mutation at K49, K179 and K180 sites showed reduced aflatoxin production compared with wild type and ΔaflM complementation strains. These results indicate that Khib at these sites of AflM negatively regulates aflatoxin biosynthesis in A. flavus. In summary, our study revealed the potential roles of Khib in A. flavus, and particularly shed light on a new way to regulate aflatoxin production via Khib.
Antibiotic‐producing Micrococcales govern the microbiome that inhabits the fur of two‐ and three‐toed sloths
Authors: Rojas‐Gätjens Diego , Valverde‐Madrigal Katherine S. , Rojas‐Jimenez Keilor , Pereira Reinaldo , Avey‐Arroyo Judy , Chavarría Max
Published: May 2022

Sloths have a dense coat on which insects, algae and fungi coexist in a symbiotic relationship. This complex ecosystem requires different levels of controls; however, most of these mechanisms remain unknown. We investigated the bacterial communities inhabiting the hair of two‐ (Choloepus Hoffmanni) and three‐toed (Bradypus variegatus) sloths and evaluated their potential for producing antibiotic molecules capable of exerting control over the hair microbiota. The analysis of 16S rRNA amplicon sequence variants revealed that the communities in both host species are dominated by Actinobacteriota and Firmicutes. The most abundant genera were Brevibacterium, Kocuria/Rothia, Staphylococcus, Rubrobacter, Nesterenkonia and Janibacter. Furthermore, we isolated nine strains of Brevibacterium and Rothia capable of producing substances that inhibited the growth of common mammalian pathogens. The analysis of the biosynthetic gene clusters of these nine isolates suggests that the pathogen‐inhibitory activity could be mediated by the presence of siderophores, terpenes, beta‐lactones, Type III polyketide synthases, ribosomally synthesized and post‐translationally modified peptides, non‐alpha poly‐amino acids like e‐Polylysine, ectoine or non‐ribosomal peptides. Our data suggest that Micrococcales that inhabit sloth hair could have a role in controlling microbial populations in that habitat, improving our understanding of this highly complex ecosystem.
Conceptualising, designing and drafting a monthly multi‐family therapy programme and manual for adolescents with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Minier Lisa , Carrot Benjamin , Cook‐Darzens Solange , Criquillion‐Doublet Sophie , Boyer France , Barton‐Clegg Vesper , Simic Mima , Voulgari Stamatoula , Godart Nathalie , Duclos Jeanne ,   the THERAFAMBEST group
Published: May 2022

The written transmission of therapists' expertise in manuals is an important issue which is highlighted in the literature. Manuals are essential for research, training and therapeutic guidance. However, the conceptualisation, design and drafting of therapy manuals have received little attention. Our team conceptualised and designed a 10‐monthly session multi‐family therapy programme for adolescents suffering from anorexia nervosa. This paper presents the methodology used to evolve from training and theoretical models to designing a programme and drafting the accompanying manual. We then describe how our team reached a consensus regarding the role to be attributed to food‐related symptoms in the programme. These arduous tasks were rewarded by fruitful discussions among team members, which led to a shared theory of treatment. The methodology presented here is drawn from both the experience of specialised teams and from that of families in providing care to adolescents with anorexia nervosa.
Maternal race and pre‐eclampsia: Cohort study and systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Arechvo Anastasjja , Voicu Diana , Gil María M. , Syngelaki Argyro , Akolekar Ranjit , Nicolaides Kypros H.
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To examine the association between race and pre‐eclampsia and gestational hypertension after adjustment for factors in maternal characteristics and medical history in a screening study from the Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF) in England, and to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies on pre‐eclampsia.

Design

Prospective observational study and systematic review with meta‐analysis.

Setting

Two UK maternity hospitals.

Population

A total of 168 966 women with singleton pregnancies attending for routine ultrasound examination at 11–13 weeks of gestation without major abnormalities delivering at 24 weeks or more of gestation.

Methods

Regression analysis examined the association between race and pre‐eclampsia or gestational hypertension in the FMF data. Literature search to December 2021 was carried out to identify peer‐reviewed publications on race and pre‐eclampsia.

Main outcome measure

Relative risk of pre‐eclampsia and gestational hypertension in women of black, South Asian and East Asian race by comparison to white women.

Results

In black women, the respective risks of total‐pre‐eclampsia and preterm‐pre‐eclampsia were 2‐fold and 2.5‐fold higher, respectively, and risk of gestational hypertension was 25% higher; in South Asian women there was a 1.5‐fold higher risk of preterm pre‐eclampsia but not of total‐pre‐eclampsia and in East Asian women there was no statistically significant difference in risk of hypertensive disorders. The literature search identified 19 studies that provided data on several million pregnancies, but 17 were at moderate or high‐risk of bias and only three provided risks adjusted for some maternal characteristics; consequently, these studies did not provide accurate contributions on different racial groups to the prediction of pre‐eclampsia.

Conclusion

In women of black and South Asian origin the risk of pre‐eclampsia, after adjustment for confounders, is higher than in white women.
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension: Evaluation of births and fertility through the Hospital Episode Statistics dataset
Authors: Thaller Mark , Mytton Jemma , Wakerley Benjamin R. , Mollan Susan P. , Sinclair Alexandra J.
Published: May 2022

Objective

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) predominantly affects women of reproductive age with obesity, and these women have a distinct profile of hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has an established adverse fertility phenotype that typically affects obese women. As IIH may impact reproductive health, we sought to evaluate fertility, gestational complications and pregnancy outcome in IIH.

Design

Prospective cohort study from English Hospital Episode Statistics dataset.

Setting

English hospitals, UK.

Population

Women aged 18–45 years seen in English hospitals between 1 April 2002 and 31 March 2019. Patients were required to have an IIH diagnosis and were compared with those with PCOS and general population female controls.

Main outcome measures

Pregnancies resulting in live births, complications of gestational diabetes and pre‐eclampsia, and method of delivery.

Results

Data was collected from 17 587 IIH, 199633 PCOS and 10 947 012 women in the general population. The live birth rate, adjusted for age, was significantly lower among women with IIH (54.1%) than PCOS (67.9%), p < 0.0001 and the general population (57.7%), p < 0.0001. Pre‐eclampsia and gestational diabetes risks were higher following a diagnosis of IIH (5.3‐fold and 2.7‐fold, respectively, p < 0.0001) compared with the general population controls. Following a diagnosis of IIH, elective caesarean section rates were more than twice that of general population (odds ratio [OR] 2.4) and prior to a diagnosis of IIH (OR 2.2).

Conclusions

These data indicate there are lower age‐adjusted total pregnancy rates, increased risk of pre‐eclampsia and gestational diabetes, and a doubling of elective caesarean section rates in those with a diagnosis of IIH.
Revenue growth in not‐for‐profit organisations: The effects of interactive and diagnostic controls and organisational culture
Authors: Jiao Lu , Harrison Graeme , Chen Jinhua
Published: May 2022

Using survey and archival data for 180 not‐for‐profit aged care organisations, we find that interactive use of performance measurement systems positively affects the organisations’ revenue growth, while the diagnostic use negatively affects revenue growth. We also find that organisational culture, specifically attention to detail, innovation and respect for people, moderates these effects. Our findings have implications for the literature in terms of understanding the combinatorial effects of formal management control and culture on organisational performance. The findings also have practical implications for designing performance measurement systems and developing organisational cultures, to create an internal environment effective in enabling revenue growth.
Concurrent extramammary Paget's disease involving the genitalia and axilla: Case report and literature review
Authors: Zhao Chunxia , Zhang Guohong , Li Yurong , Zhang Chong , Yang Shuxia , Li Hang
Published: May 2022

Concurrent multiple primary extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD) is rare. Herein, we present two Chinese cases of concurrent primary EMPD involving both the genitalia and the axilla, and they also had a history of other malignancy. We also summarise the cases of multiple primary EMPD previously described in literature. Careful examination of all apocrine sweat gland‐bearing sites and additional internal malignancies is recommended for patients with EMPD.
Risk factors and outcomes for patients with bleeding complications receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: An analysis of the Chinese Extracorporeal Life Support Registry
Authors: Li Chenglong , Cai Tong , Xie Haixiu , Wang Liangshan , Yang Feng , Du Zhongtao , Hong Xiaoyang , Zhou Chengbing , Li Yimin , Qiu Haibo , Tong Zhaohui , Zeng Hui , Peng Zhiyong , Li Xin , Hou Xiaotong
Published: May 2022

Objective

Bleeding is a severe complication of patients supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). This study aimed to analyze the occurrence, risk factors, and clinical outcomes of patients on ECMO with bleeding complications.

Methods

ECMO cases reported to the multicenter ECMO registry database of the Chinese Society of Extracorporeal Life Support (CSECLS) from January 2017 to December 2020 were enrolled. General information, ECMO indications, application, complications, and patient outcomes were collected and analyzed.

Results

A total of 6541 ECMO patients from 112 centers were enrolled. Overall, 1185 patients (18.1%) presented with one of the following bleeding complications, including 82 cases (1.3%) with severe bleeding during ECMO catheterization, 462 cases (7.1%) with bleeding at the ECMO cannulation site, 200 cases (3.5%) with bleeding at the surgical site, 180 cases (2.8%) with cerebral hemorrhage, 99 cases (1.5%) with pulmonary hemorrhage, 200 cases (3.5%) with gastrointestinal hemorrhage, 82 cases (1.3%) with ECMO withdrawal, and 118 (1.8%) deaths due to severe bleeding. Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) patients had the highest incidence of bleeding complications (22.4%), followed by those on circulatory support (18.7%) and respiratory support (15.4%) (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that pediatric patients (odds ratio [OR] 1.509, p < 0.001), patients receiving renal replacement therapy (OR 1.932, p < 0.001), and patients receiving central ECMO cannulation (OR 3.023, p < 0.001) were independent risk factors for all bleeding complications, while peripheral cannulation (OR 0.712, p < 0.001) was an independent protective factor. Patients with any bleeding complication had significantly higher in‐hospital mortality than patients without (61.9% vs. 46.3%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Up to 18.1% of ECMO patients in the CSECLS registry experienced bleeding complications, which was associated with higher in‐hospital mortality, especially in patients who received ECPR, patients on circulatory support, and pediatric patients, which should arouse the attention of clinicians.
Interventions to reduce loneliness among Chinese older adults: A network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials and quasi‐experimental studies
Authors: Li Jia , Zhou Xiaochen , Wang Qi
Published: May 2022

This meta‐analytic study investigates the effectiveness of different interventions in alleviating loneliness among Chinese older adults aged 50 years and above. We searched eight English databases, four Chinese databases, and grey literature. Thirty‐four studies, including four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 30 quasi‐experimental studies, were eventually included in the meta‐analysis (n = 3843). Quality appraisal indicated risks of bias in the included studies. The pooled effect size was large and significant (Hedge'sg = 0.84, 95% CI [0.54, 1.15]), indicating the effectiveness of interventions in reducing loneliness. However, the effect size may be overestimated due to publication bias. Moderation analyses showed significant differences in effect sizes by study designs and regions of studies. Network meta‐analysis (NMA) indicated that hybrid and psychological interventions appeared to be advantageous over others. In addition, group‐based delivery modes can add extra benefits to the interventions. This study adds to the knowledge of the effectiveness of current interventions in reducing Chinese older people's loneliness. However, the findings need to be interpreted with caution due to the relatively low study quality, considerable heterogeneity, and publication bias. Despite the limitations, this study offers valuable insights for future research, practice, and policy‐making in reducing older people's loneliness.
The place of the public under COVID‐19
Authors: Mathews Vanessa
Published: May 2022

Over the past several decades, scholars have lamented the erosion of “true” public space through the rise of semi‐public and private spaces where access is determined, and usage is increasingly regulated (e.g., through curfews and restrictions on use). Writing in the midst of the sixth wave of COVID‐19, the importance of inclusive, open spaces in Canadian urban centres is evident: these are spaces that allow for movement and participation (ideally) across axes of identity and difference. Yet, public spaces are also bound up with the heightened regulation of bodies to supress contagion through social distancing and restrictions on use. While some bodies are in place (and take up space) in public in this context, other bodies face limitations pertaining to discrimination, surveillance, health, and access. This viewpoint highlights the importance of retaining and producing inclusive public spaces and the need to think critically about the urban experience under COVID‐19.
Hyperspectral imaging for quantitative assessment of hepatic steatosis in human liver allografts
Authors: Wagner Tristan , Katou Shadi , Wahl Philip , Vogt Franziska , Kneifel Felicia , Morgul Haluk , Vogel Thomas , Houben Philipp , Becker Felix , Struecker Benjamin , Pascher Andreas , Radunz Sonia
Published: May 2022

Introduction

In liver transplantation (LT), steatosis is commonly judged to be a risk factor for graft dysfunction, and quantitative assessment of hepatic steatosis remains crucial. Liver biopsy as the gold standard for evaluation of hepatic steatosis has certain drawbacks, that is, invasiveness, and intra‐ and inter‐observer variability. A non‐invasive, quantitative modality could replace liver biopsy and eliminate these disadvantages, but has not yet been evaluated in human LT.

Methods

We performed a pilot study to evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of hyperspectral imaging (HSI) in the assessment of hepatic steatosis of human liver allografts for transplantation. Thirteen deceased donor liver allografts were included in the study. The degree of steatosis was assessed by means of conventional liver biopsy as well as HSI, performed at the end of back‐table preparation, during normothermic machine perfusion (NMP), and after reperfusion in the recipient.

Results

Organ donors were 51 [30–83] years old, and 61.5% were male. Donor body mass index was 24.2 [16.5–38.0] kg/m2. The tissue lipid index (TLI) generated by HSI at the end of back‐table preparation correlated significantly with the histopathologically assessed degree of overall hepatic steatosis (R2 = .9085, P < .0001); this was based on a correlation of TLI and microvesicular steatosis (R2 = .8120; P < .0001). There is also a linear relationship between the histopathologically assessed degree of overall steatosis and TLI during NMP (R2 = .5646; P = .0031) as well as TLI after reperfusion (R2 = .6562; P = .0008).

Conclusion

HSI may safely be applied for accurate assessment of hepatic steatosis in human liver grafts. Certainly, TLI needs further assessment and validation in larger sample sizes.
International sourcing, complementary inputs, and the structure of trade agreements: Deep, shallow, narrow, and wide
Authors: Chisik Richard , Rohany Tabatabai Sara
Published: May 2022

We analyze Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) formation among a subset of members of a multilateral agreement when imported inputs are complementary to one another. A shallow (focused only on border policies) multilateral agreement does not place countries on the efficiency frontier. Furthermore, no subset of countries will form a shallow PTA. Alternatively, a deep PTA that addresses behind‐the‐border policies increases each country's welfare. This result suggests that the recent proliferation of PTA formation is driven by a need for deep integration. Although these deep PTAs increase welfare over a shallow multilateral agreement the efficiency frontier can only be reached by a deep multilateral agreement that covers both border and behind‐the‐border policies. Whether a deep PTA can generate consensus approval for further multilateral‐deep integration depends on the structure of the PTA and the success of the multilateral‐shallow agreement in lowering tariffs.
Advancing statistical models to reveal the effect of dissolved oxygen on the spatial distribution of marine taxa using thresholds and a physiologically based index
Authors: Essington Timothy E. , Anderson Sean C. , Barnett Lewis A. K. , Berger Halle M. , Siedlecki Samantha A. , Ward Eric J.
Published: May 2022

The rapid pace of ocean change has prompted a need to forecast likely future species distributions. Species distribution models are often categorized as either correlative (statistical) or mechanistic, and each has limitations both for advancing understanding and for prediction. Here we sought to benefit from mechanistic understanding of how and why low dissolved oxygen affects species' distributions by applying physiologically informed statistical models to the spatial distribution of sablefish Anoplopoma fimbria, a deep‐dwelling commercially important groundfish. We fit spatial models to trawl‐survey data on catch rate, local temperature and dissolved oxygen, and estimated parameters of the metabolic index, which provided a way to express the temperature‐dependence of oxygen tolerance. We fit generalized linear mixed effects models with Gaussian random fields to capture the latent spatially fixed variables, and included both linear and breakpoint functions for pO2 and the metabolic index. The best fitting models all included breakpoint effects of pO2, and the estimated threshold value of 0.05 atm is close to levels in laboratory studies where metabolism begins to decline. Models based on the metabolic index were not as well supported as those that included pO2, likely because of the decrease in temperature and slight increase in pO2 at deep (> 800 m) depths. These findings illustrate that statistical models of species distributions can be improved by incorporating knowledge of how physiological mechanisms operate. Furthermore, they illustrate that even species with high tolerance for low dissolved oxygen may undergo species distribution shifts in the face of growing oxygen depletion in coastal ocean ecosystems.
Harvesters (Arachnida: Opiliones) mate more at cooler temperatures, but the effect of temperature on mating varies across years
Authors: Fowler‐Finn Kasey D. , Johnson Todd
Published: May 2022

Temperature impacts a wide range of mating behaviors, particularly in ectothermic organisms that tend to have body temperatures similar to ambient thermal conditions. Here, we test the effects of thermal variation on precopulatory and copulatory behavior in the harvester Leiobunum politum Weed 1889, which belongs to the group commonly known as daddy longlegs. We ran single choice mating trials across temperatures commonly experienced in the field during the mating season (18–34°C) for 2 years. We tested how temperature affected the likelihood to move, attempt to mate, and successfully mate, as well as the duration of copulation. Mating was highest at low to intermediate temperatures, and the temperature at which peak mating rates occurred varied across years. The wide range of temperatures across which L. politum is found to mate reflects thermal variability in the field and the flexibility in mating behavior in this fascinating animal.
T‐cell activation and bacterial infection in skin wounds of recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa patients
Authors: Alexeev Vitali , Huitema Leonie , Phillips Taylor , Cepeda Rodrigo , de los Cobos Diego , Perez Regina Isabella Matus , Salas‐Garza Mauricio , Fajardo‐Ramirez Oscar R. , Ringpfeil Franziska , Uitto Jouni , Salas‐Alanis Julio Cesar , Igoucheva Olga
Published: May 2022

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) patients develop poorly healing skin wounds that are frequently colonized with microbiota. Because T cells play an important role in clearing such pathogens, we aimed to define the status of adaptive T cell‐mediated immunity in RDEB wounds. Using a non‐invasive approach for sampling of wound‐associated constituents, we evaluated microbial contaminants in cellular fraction and exudates obtained from RDED wounds. Infectivity and intracellular trafficking of inactivated Staphylococcus aureus was accessed in RDEB keratinocytes. S. aureus and microbial antigen‐specific activation of RDEB wound‐derived T cells were investigated by fluorescence‐activated cell sorting‐based immune‐phenotyping and T‐cell functional assays. We found that RDEB wounds and epithelial cells are most frequently infected with Staphylococcus sp. and Pseudomonas sp. and that S. aureus essentially infects more RDEB keratinocytes and RDEB‐derived squamous cell carcinoma cells than keratinocytes from healthy donors. The RDEB wound‐associated T cells contain populations of CD4+ and CD8+ peripheral memory T cells that respond to soluble microbial antigens by proliferating and secreting interferon gamma (IFNγ). Moreover, CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes recognize S. aureus‐infected RDEB keratinocytes and respond by producing interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) and IFNγ and degranulating and cytotoxically killing infected cells. Prolonged exposure of RDEB‐derived T cells to microbial antigens in vitro does not trigger PD‐1‐mediated T‐cell exhaustion but induces differentiation of the CD4high population into CD4highCD25+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells. Our data demonstrated that adaptive T cell‐mediated immunity could clear infected cells from wound sites, but these effects might be inhibited by PD‐1/Treg‐mediated immuno‐suppression in RDEB.
Lived Experiences with Payday Loans: African American Single Mothers and Employees
Authors: Riley Lane , Green Leslie E. , Zuiker Virginia S.
Published: May 2022

Payday loans are disproportionately used by African Americans and women including single mothers. Little empirical research exists incorporating data from payday loan employees. This exploratory study used a phenomenological approach and in‐depth interviews to examine the lived experiences of two groups: African American single mothers who used payday loans and former payday loan employees who extended and collected on payday loans. The interviews resulted in four themes from the single mothers' experiences including “right decision at the time” and “it's addictive” and five themes from the former employees including “help the customer come back” and “relating to the customers.”
Social deficits in BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J mice vary with ecological validity of the test
Authors: Winiarski Maciej , Kondrakiewicz Ludwika , Kondrakiewicz Kacper , Jędrzejewska‐Szmek Joanna , Turzyński Krzysztof , Knapska Ewelina , Meyza Ksenia
Published: May 2022

Translational value of mouse models of neuropsychiatric disorders depends heavily on the accuracy with which they replicate symptoms observed in the human population. In mouse models of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) these include, among others, social affiliation, and communication deficits as well as impairments in understanding and perception of others. Most studies addressing these issues in the BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J mouse, an idiopathic model of ASD, were based on short dyadic interactions of often non‐familiar partners placed in a novel environment. In such stressful and variable conditions, the reproducibility of the phenotype was low. Here, we compared physical conditions and the degree of habituation of mice at the time of testing in the three chambered social affiliation task, as well as parameters used to measure social deficits and found that both the level of stress and human bias profoundly affect the results of the test. To minimize these effects, we tested social preference and network dynamics in mice group‐housed in the Eco‐HAB system. This automated recording allowed for long‐lasting monitoring of differences in social repertoire (including interest in social stimuli) in BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J and normosocial c57BL/6J mice. With these observations we further validate the BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J mouse as a model for ASD, but at the same time emphasize the need for more ecological testing of social behavior within all constructs of the Systems for Social Processes domain (as defined by the Research Domain Criteria framework).
Profiles of sturgeon protein prepared by two methods and the correlation between protein fractions and functional properties
Authors: Wu Chongyi , Fang Yizhou , Huang Shiwen , Shao Jiahui , Liu Jianhua , Huang Guangrong
Published: May 2022

In order to find the potential functional components in sturgeon protein, the protein fractions and functional properties of sturgeon proteins (SP) prepared by two methods were investigated, including pH‐shift and subcritical dimethyl ether extraction (SDEE). In the case of the former method, four different experimental conditions were followed. The SP prepared by alkali‐aided pH‐shift had the highest salt‐soluble protein content as well as the lowest water‐soluble protein content, while the highest water‐soluble protein content was observed in SDEE‐produced SP due to a higher proportion of water‐soluble protein that was retained during SDEE. Besides, the significant variations in almost all detected myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic fractions were observed across protein samples, which was mainly due to the solubility of various proteins under different preparation conditions. Moreover, the SDEE‐produced SP possessed the greatest capacities in all the emulsification, foaming and gelation, followed by alkali‐aided pH‐shift and acid‐aided pH‐shift. In addition, the correlation analysis results indicated that enolase, aldolase, PM‐2, TI, NDK, parvalbumin, actin and tropomyosin might be the primary functional components, while PM‐1, CK, MLC3, degradation products and lipids had negative effects on its functional properties. Therefore, changes of the above components might be another important reason to explain how different methods affect the quality of protein, except for the degradation of protein.
Application and challenges of 3D food printing technology in manned spaceflight: a review
Authors: Zhang Long‐zhen , Dong Hai‐sheng , Yu Yan‐bo , Liu Li‐yan , Zang Peng
Published: May 2022

Three‐dimensional (3D) food printing is a digital food engineering method that has a remarkable application potential in long‐term manned spaceflight. Extrusion‐based 3D food printing, among the available 3D food printing techniques utilised in the food industry, is one of the most suitable printing methods for manned spaceflight. Extrusion‐based 3D food printing could suffice most of the energy and personalised nutritional requirements of astronauts during long‐term stay in space by utilising fruits, vegetables, meat products, and nutrients as printing materials. However, 3D food printing in manned spaceflight is still limited by technologies and costs such as printing materials, microgravity, post‐processability of food, and engineering transportation under the existing technical conditions. Therefore, this article reviews the 3D food printing and manned spaceflight technologies that are currently available and discusses the challenges involved in 3D food printing in manned spaceflight, thus providing a theoretical basis for future 3D food printing for space missions.
Design of volatile organic compounds profiles of roasted Coffea arabica extracts produced by supercritical and conventional solvents
Authors: de Toledo Paulo R. A. B. , de Melo Marcelo M. R. , Rodrigues Vítor H. , Pezza Helena R. , Rocha Sílvia M. , Toci Aline T. , Pezza Leonardo , Portugal Inês , Silva Carlos M.
Published: May 2022

This work addresses the potential of supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) to design volatile organic compounds (VOCs) profiles using roasted Coffea arabica. On the whole, 57 VOCs were identified by HS‐SPME/GC–MS. A full factorial design was adopted to study the effect of pressure (180 and 300 bar), temperature (40 and 80 °C) and ethanol content (0 and 5 wt.%). The total extraction yield ranged from 1.4 wt.% to 9.8 wt.%. At 180 bar and 80 °C, two extracts exhibited VOCs amount up to 3.5 times higher than the dichloromethane extract. Temperature and pressure favoured VOCs amount and total yield in conflicting ways, and ethanol had a negligible effect on VOCs amount. At 180 bar and 80 °C, the VOCs profile revealed a reinforcement of pyrroles, phenols, cyclopentenes and pyrans, at the expense of pyridines, carboxylic acids and furans. Hence, this essay evidences the potential of SFE to engineer coffee VOCs profiles.
Effects of interparticle neck size on initiation of selective laser flash sintering of 8‐YSZ
Authors: Hagen Deborah , Beaman Joseph J. , Kovar Desiderio
Published: May 2022

The influence of the interparticle neck radius to particle size ratio (X/R) on the laser energy required to initiate selective laser flash sintering (SLFS) in 8% yttria‐stabilized zirconia (8‐YSZ) is investigated. The interparticle neck radius ratio (X/R) is varied by pre‐sintering powder compacts at temperatures ranging from 850°C to 1250°C to produce compacts with calculated X/R = 0–0.62. Experiments show that the onset laser energy to initiate SLFS initially decreases with X/R until X/R = 0.066, when the onset laser energy reaches a minimum. As X/R increases beyond 0.066, the onset laser energy increases. Finite element modeling is used to calculate the local current density and temperature in the neck region when SLFS initiates. When interparticle necks are small, the current density and Joule heating are substantially elevated near necks, resulting in a relatively low laser onset energy required for incipient current flow. When the interparticle neck size is increased, the laser onset energy for incipient current flow is increased because Joule heating in the neck region is lower, but locally high current density spreads into the interior of the particles more quickly with larger necks. These results provide valuable insights into the mechanisms responsible for the initiation of both SLFS and furnace‐based flash sintering.
Exclusive breastfeeding in African American women: A concept analysis
Authors: Aderibigbe Oluwatumilara , Lucas Ruth
Published: May 2022

Aim

To report an analysis of the concept of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in African American women.

Background

EBF is the gold standard for infant nutrition from birth until 6 months. The rate of EBF in United States is low—26%, with African American women having the lowest rates. The low rates of EBF in this population are strongly attributed to bias, racism and generational trauma. Therefore, clarifying the concept of EBF with respect to these factors is important for promoting EBF rates of this population.

Design

Concept analysis.

Data sources

Search was conducted in four databases (CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO and Scopus) for articles published between 2001 and 2021. A total of 30 articles (20 quantitative, seven qualitative and three mixed methods) clarified the concept. Relevant literature emanated from diverse disciplines examining historical and present maternal and infant health.

Methods

Concept analysis using Rodger's evolutionary method.

Results

An operational definition of the concept of EBF in African American women was developed from the identified antecedents (modifiable and non‐modifiable), defining attributes and consequences of the concept. Access to breastfeeding resources, maternal (prenatal intention to breastfeed, smoking status, attitude towards breastfeeding), infant (skin‐to‐skin care, successful latching and weight) and contextual factors (socioeconomic, occupational and cultural) predict EBF. The primary attributes of EBF were physiological, physical, psychological and relational. Consequences of EBF were positive health outcomes for, and increased bonding between, mother and infant.

Conclusion

This concept analysis is the first identifying modifiable and non‐modifiable antecedents of EBF. The analysis provides an operational definition for EBF in African American women which is useful to promote understanding of breastfeeding. This new concept examines the historic societal trauma associated with wet nursing and reframes breastfeeding as a positive maternal and infant health behaviour.
A theory‐driven exercise intervention among community‐dwelling (pre)frail older adults: Protocol for a stepped‐wedge cluster‐randomized trial
Authors: Qiao Xiaoxia , Ji Lili , Jin Yaru , Si Huaxin , Bian Yanhui , Wang Wenyu , Liu Qinqin , Yu Jiaqi , Wang Cuili
Published: May 2022

Aim

This study is aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a theory‐driven exercise intervention for Chinese community‐dwelling (pre)frail older adults, and to clarify the underlying mechanisms of the exercise intervention in this population.

Design

A stepped‐wedge cluster‐randomized trial.

Methods

A stepped‐wedge cluster‐randomized trial will be conducted among (pre)frail older adults at six communities in a county of central China. A 12‐week multicomponent exercise intervention based on the integration of the Health Belief Model (HBM) and the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) will be implemented to all participants during the study period. The primary outcomes are frailty, muscle mass, muscle strength and physical performance. Secondary outcomes include beliefs in exercise, exercise behaviours and other physical, mental and social functioning. Assessments will be conducted at baseline and at week 12, 24 and 36. A multilevel regression model will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of exercise interventions. A multilevel mediation model will be used to clarify the underlying mechanisms of this exercise intervention.

Discussion

This study is expected to provide an effective and practical mode for exercise interventions among Chinese community‐dwelling (pre)frail older adults, and contribute to the existing evidence in this field.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2100041981.
Public Attitude and Opinion Leaders: Mapping Chinese Discussion of EU's Energy Role on Social Media
Authors: Zhang Li , Wang Peinan
Published: May 2022

The EU and China are both pioneers in energy transition and are major energy consumers. However, we know little about the attitude of the Chinese public toward EU's energy role or EU–China energy cooperation. The paper contributes to the study of relationship between agenda‐setting and public opinion in the context of Chinese social media. Using empirical data, it finds that energy cooperation, energy trading, energy politics, and energy technology&service are the four co‐occurrence networks of Chinese public discussion on the topic. Yet the opinion leaders differ on these issues. While verified media accounts are key opinion leaders setting the agenda in EU energy politics and trade issues, in energy technology and service issues, verified individual accounts lead opinions. The study helps understand the role of online opinion leaders in EU–China energy relations and argues that key opinion leaders need to play more active roles in communicating the issues and guiding public discussions.
Absence of dynamic neural oscillatory response to environmental conditions marks childhood attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Arnett Anne B. , Fearey Margaret , Peisch Virginia , Levin April R.
Published: May 2022

Background

Prior research suggests that symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and related neurodevelopmental disorders may derive from alterations in the brain's ability to flexibly tune the balance between information integration and segregation and global versus local processing. This balance allows the brain to optimally filter salient stimuli in the environment and can be measured with electroencephalography (EEG) via calculation of the aperiodic spectral slope. A steeper aperiodic slope increases the capacity of global neural networks to process low‐salience stimuli, while a flatter aperiodic slope reflects an emphasis on local neural networks that respond preferentially to high‐salience input. Although aperiodic slope differences have been reported in ADHD, prior studies have not accounted for differing levels of stimulus input in experimental paradigms. There is evidence to suggest that dynamic shifts in neural oscillation patterns in response to changing environmental conditions could be critical for attention regulation.

Methods

Using high‐density resting EEG, we measured aperiodic spectral slope during low contrast (lights off) and high contrast (lights on) environmental conditions in a sample of 88 7–11‐year‐old children diagnosed with ADHD and 29 controls (30% female).

Results

While controls showed a flatter aperiodic slope during the high contrast (lights on) as compared to low contrast (lights off) environmental condition, children with ADHD did not show any change in aperiodic slope across conditions.

Conclusions

This study presents a novel etiological model of biological mechanisms associated with ADHD. Children with ADHD show suboptimal modulation of intrinsic neural activity in response to changing environmental input. The dynamic spectral slope is a promising candidate biomarker for ADHD. The possibility that dynamic spectral slope is associated with cognitive‐behavioral regulation more broadly merits further investigation.
Aggressive corticotroph tumors and carcinomas
Authors: Lasolle Hélène , Vasiljevic Alexandre , Jouanneau Emmanuel , Ilie Mirela Diana , Raverot Gérald
Published: May 2022

Pituitary tumors are generally benign, although in rare cases aggressive pituitary tumors (APTs) and carcinomas present important diagnostic and therapeutic challenges and are associated with a high mortality rate. Almost half of these APTs and carcinomas are corticotroph tumors, suggesting a specific prognosis. Clinical, pathological and molecular prognostic markers are limited and do not allow early management of these tumors. Temozolomide remains the first‐line treatment once a diagnosis of aggressive pituitary tumor or carcinoma has been made. Novel alternative treatments exist, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, which can be used in the case of temozolomide treatment failure. The aim of this review is to present the clinical, pathological and molecular characteristics of aggressive corticotroph tumors and carcinomas, and to describe the results obtained with currently available treatments.