bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenomics reveals deep relationships and diversification within phylactolaemate bryozoans
Authors: Saadi Ahmed J. , Bibermair Julian , Kocot Kevin M. , Roberts Nickellaus G. , Hirose Masato , Calcino Andrew , Baranyi Christian , Chaichana Ratcha , Wood Timothy S. , Schwaha Thomas
Published: November 2022

Bryozoans are mostly sessile colonial invertebrates that inhabit all kinds of aquatic ecosystems. Extant bryozoan species fall into two clades with one of them, Phylactolaemata, being the only exclusively freshwater clade. Phylogenetic relationships within the class Phylactolaemata have long been controversial owing to their limited distinguishable characteristics that reflect evolutionary relationships. Here, we present the first phylogenomic analysis of Phylactolaemata using transcriptomic data combined with dense taxon sampling of six families to better resolve the interrelationships and to estimate divergence time. Using maximum-likelihood and Bayesian inference approaches, we recovered a robust phylogeny for Phylactolaemata in which the interfamilial relationships are fully resolved. We show Stephanellidae is the sister taxon of all other phylactolaemates and confirm that Lophopodidae represents the second offshoot within the phylactolaemate tree.Plumatella fruticosaclearly falls outside Plumatellidae as previous investigations have suggested, and instead clusters with Pectinatellidae and Cristatellidae as the sister taxon of Fredericellidae. Our results demonstrate that cryptic speciation is very likely inF. sultanaand in two species ofPlumatella(P. repensandP. casmiana). Divergence time estimates show that Phylactolaemata appeared at the end of the Ediacaran and started to diverge in the Silurian, although confidence intervals were large for most nodes. The radiation of most extant phylactolaemate families occurred mainly in the Palaeogene and Neogene highlighting post-extinction diversification.
Social phenotype-dependent selection of social environment in wild great and blue tits: an experimental study
Authors: Regan Charlotte E. , Beck Kristina B. , McMahon Keith , Crofts Sam , Firth Josh A. , Sheldon Ben C.
Published: November 2022

There is growing evidence that individuals actively assess the match between their phenotype and their environment when making habitat choice decisions (so-called matching habitat choice). However, to our knowledge, no studies have considered how the social environment may interact with social phenotype in determining habitat choice, despite habitat choice being an inherently social process and growing evidence for individual variation in sociability. We conducted an experiment using wild great and blue tits to understand how birds integrate their social phenotype and social environment when choosing where and how to feed. We used programmable feeders to (i) record social interactions and estimate social phenotype, and (ii) experimentally manipulate the local density experienced by birds of differing social phenotype. By tracking feeder usage, we estimated how social environment and social phenotype predicted feeder choice and feeding behaviour. Both social environment and social phenotype predicted feeder usage, but a bird's decision to remain in a particular social environment did not depend on their social phenotype. By contrast, for feeding behaviour, responses to the social environment depended on social phenotype. Our results provide rare evidence of matching habitat choice and shed light on the dependence of habitat choice on between-individual differences in social phenotype.
High dispersal rates in hybrids drive expansion of maladaptive hybridization
Authors: Bourret Samuel L. , Kovach Ryan P. , Cline Timothy J. , Strait Jeffrey T. , Muhlfeld Clint C.
Published: November 2022

Hybridization between native and invasive species, a major cause of biodiversity loss, can spread rapidly even when hybrids have reduced fitness. This paradox suggests that hybrids have greater dispersal rates than non-hybridized individuals, yet this mechanism has not been empirically tested in animal populations. Here, we test if non-native genetic introgression increases reproductive dispersal using a human-mediated hybrid zone between native cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii) and invasive rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in a large and connected river system. We quantified the propensity for individuals to migrate from natal rearing habitats (migrate), reproduce in non-natal habitats (stray), and the joint probability of dispersal as a function of genetic ancestry. Hybrid trout with predominantly non-native rainbow trout ancestry were more likely to migrate as juveniles and to stray as adults. Overall, hybrids with greater than 50% rainbow trout ancestry were 5.7 times more likely to disperse than native or hybrid trout with small amounts of rainbow trout ancestry. Our results show a genetic basis for increased dispersal in hybrids that is likely contributing to the rapid expansion of invasive hybridization between these species. Management actions that decrease the probability of hybrid dispersal may mitigate the harmful effects of invasive hybridization on native biodiversity.
TiDeTree: a Bayesian phylogenetic framework to estimate single-cell trees and population dynamic parameters from genetic lineage tracing data
Authors: Seidel Sophie , Stadler Tanja
Published: November 2022

The development of organisms and tissues is dictated by an elaborate balance between cell division, apoptosis and differentiation: the cell population dynamics. To quantify these dynamics, we propose a phylodynamic inference approach based on single-cell lineage recorder data. We developed a Bayesian phylogenetic framework—time-scaled developmental trees (TiDeTree)—that uses lineage recorder data to estimate time-scaled single-cell trees. By implementing TiDeTree within BEAST 2, we enable joint inference of the time-scaled trees and the cell population dynamics. We validated TiDeTree using simulations and showed that performance further improves when including multiple independent sources of information into the inference, such as frequencies of editing outcomes or experimental replicates. We benchmarked TiDeTree against state-of-the-art methods and show comparable performance in terms of tree topology, plus direct assessment of uncertainty and co-estimation of additional parameters. To demonstrate TiDeTree’s use in practice, we analysed a public dataset containing lineage data from approximately 100 stem cell colonies. We estimated a time-scaled phylogeny for each colony; as well as the cell division and apoptosis rates underlying the growth dynamics of all colonies. We envision that TiDeTree will find broad application in the analysis of single-cell lineage tracing data, which will improve our understanding of cellular processes during development.
Multi-trait ensemble genomic prediction and simulations of recurrent selection highlight importance of complex trait genetic architecture in long-term genetic gains in wheat
Authors: Fradgley Nick , Gardner Keith A. , Bentley Alison R. , Howell Phil , Mackay Ian J. , Scott Michael F. , Mott Richard , Cockram James
Published: November 2022

Cereal crop breeders have achieved considerable genetic gain in genetically complex traits, such as grain yield, while maintaining genetic diversity. However, focus on selection for yield has negatively impacted other important traits. To better understand selection within a breeding context, and how it might be optimised, we analysed genotypic and phenotypic data from a diverse, 16-founder wheat multi-parent advanced generation inter-cross (MAGIC) population.

Compared to single-trait models, multi-trait ensemble genomic prediction models increased prediction accuracy for almost 90% of traits, improving grain yield prediction accuracy by 3-52%. For complex traits, non-parametric models (Random Forest) also outperformed simplified, additive models (LASSO), increasing grain yield prediction accuracy by 10-36%. Simulations of recurrent genomic selection then showed that sustained greater forward prediction accuracy optimised long-term genetic gains.

Simulations of selection on grain yield found indirect responses in related traits, which involved optimisation of antagonistic trait relationships. We found multi-trait selection indices could be used to optimise undesirable relationships, such as the trade-off between grain yield and protein content, or combine traits of interest, such as yield and weed competitive ability.

Simulations of phenotypic selection found that including Random Forest rather than LASSO genetic models, and multi-trait rather than single-trait models as the true genetic model, accelerated and extended long-term genetic gain whilst maintaining genetic diversity. These results suggest important roles of pleiotropy and epistasis in the wider context of wheat breeding programmes and provide insights into mechanisms for continued genetic gain in a limited genepool and optimisation of multiple traits for crop improvement.
Investigation of the neural effects of memory training to reduce false memories in older adults: Univariate and multivariate analyses
Authors: Turney Indira C. , Chamberlain Jordan D. , Hakun Jonathan G. , Steinkrauss Ashley C. , Ross Lesley A. , Kirchhoff Brenda A. , Dennis Nancy A.
Published: November 2022

The growing population of older adults emphasizes the need to develop interventions that prevent or delay some of the cognitive decline that accompanies aging. In particular, as memory impairment is the foremost cognitive deficit affecting older adults, it is vital to develop interventions that improve memory function. This study addressed the problem of false memories in aging by training older adults to use details of past events during memory retrieval to distinguish targets from related lures. We examined the neural basis of a retrieval-based monitoring strategy by assessing changes in univariate BOLD activity and discriminability of targets and lures pre and post training. Results showed training-related decreases in false memory rates with no alterations to hit rates. Training and practice were associated with altered recruitment of a frontoparietal monitoring network as well as benefits to neural discriminability within network regions. Participants with lower baseline neural discriminability between target and lure items exhibited the largest changes in neural discriminability. Collectively, our results highlight the benefits of training for reductions of false memories in aging. They also provide an understanding of the neural mechanisms that support these reductions.
Shifted PAMs generate DNA overhangs and enhance SpCas9 post-catalytic complex dissociation
Authors: Wang Jinglong , Gall Julien Le , Frock Richard L , Strick Terence R
Published: November 2022

Streptococcus pyogenesCRISPR-Cas9 (SpCas9) stabilizes each strand of a DNA bubble via distinct interactions, forming a stable ~20 bp R-loop on the complementary strand but relying on narrower protein-DNA interactions to bind the non-complementary strand with 5’ NGG protospacer adjacent motif (PAM). The enzyme’s HNH endonuclease domain cleaves DNA within the R-loop, and its RuvC endonuclease cleaves 5’ to the NGG and opposite the HNH cleavage site to generate blunt DNA ends. We show that this nucleoprotein complex can be mechanically strained by shifting the RNA:DNA hybrid and that the HNH cleavage site tracks this shift but the RuvC cleavage site does not, resulting in overhanging DNA ends. This is observed using cleavage in living cells and sequencing assays to characterize overhangs generated by stressed complexes, as well as single-molecule cleavage assays to characterize differential cleavage kinetics of HNH and RuvC endonucleases in stressed complexes as well as complex disassembly.

Using Sanger sequencing and high-throughput genome sequencing of DNA cleavage reactions, we find that the SpCas9 complex responds to internal mechanical strain by robustly generating overhanging, rather than blunt, DNA ends. Internal mechanical strain is generated by increasing or decreasing the spacing between the RNA:DNA hybrid and the downstream canonical PAM. Up to two-base 3’ overhangs can be robustly generated via a two-base increase in the distance between hybrid and PAM. We also use single-molecule experiments to reconstruct the full course of the CRISPR-SpCas9 reaction in real-time, monitoring and quantifying the R-loop formation, the first and second DNA incision events, and the post-catalytic complex dissociation. Complex dissociation and release of broken DNA ends appears to be a rate-limiting step of the reaction, and strained SpCas9 are sufficiently destabilized so as to rapidly dissociate after formation of broken DNA ends.
Genomics reveals introgression and purging of deleterious mutations in the Arabian leopard (Panthera pardus nimr)
Authors: Riaño Gabriel , Fontsere Claudia , de Manuel Marc , Talavera Adrián , Burriel-Carranza Bernat , Tejero-Cicuéndez Héctor , AlGethami Raed Hamoud M. , Shobrak Mohammed , Marques-Bonet Tomas , Carranza Salvador
Published: November 2022

Low genetic variation and high levels of inbreeding are usually a consequence of recent population declines in endangered species. From a conservation point of view, it is essential to genetically screen endangered populations to help assess their vulnerability to extinction and to properly create informed management actions towards their conservation efforts. The leopard,Panthera pardus, is a highly generalist predator with currently eight different subspecies inhabiting a wide range of habitats. Yet, genomic data is still lacking for the Critically Endangered Arabian leopard (P. p. nimr). Here, we sequenced the whole genome of two specimens of Arabian leopard and assembled the most complete genomic dataset for leopards to date, including genomic data for all current subspecies. Our phylogenomic analyses show that leopards are divided into two deeply divergent clades, one including the only African subspecies and a second one including all seven subspecies of Asian leopards. Interestingly, the Arabian leopard represents a well-differentiated lineage sister to the rest of Asian subspecies. The demographic history, genomic diversity, Runs of Homozygosity (RoHs), and mutational load in the Arabian leopard indicate a prolonged population decline, which has led to an increase in inbreeding and RoHs, with consequent purging of deleterious mutations. Our study represents the first attempt to genetically inform captive breeding programs for this Critically Endangered subspecies. Still, more genomes, particularly from wild individuals, are needed to fully characterise the genetic makeup of this singular and iconic subspecies.
Ecological flexibility and selectivity in mixed-species flock participation in birds
Authors: Vander Meiden Laura , Hoppe Ian R. , Shizuka Daizaburo , Johnson Allison E.
Published: November 2022

Mixed-species groups are hypothesized to allow animals to minimize competitive interactions and maximize facilitative interactions. Individuals’ participation in mixed-species groups may reduce rates of competition and increase the social information available about predators or food availability. Behavioral plasticity may further increase these benefits as plastic species alter their rates of niche overlap with group mates. We investigate two axes of behavioral plasticity that may modulate how species interact with group mates in mixed-species groups—flexibility and selectivity. Specifically, we assess avian species’ patterns of selective preferences for participation in flocks of certain strata and whether behavioral flexibility in foraging strata corresponds with the foraging strata of flock mates. All species in our study maintained or increased their foraging strata overlap with flock mates, supporting the hypothesis that facilitation plays an important role in flock formation. Notably, the methods that species used varied: some species moved closer to flock mates via flexibly matching their flock mates’ behavior, some showed selectivity for flocks of certain stratums, and others did both. Ultimately, we show that species balance facilitative and competitive interactions with flock mates via multiple methods and that consideration of behavioral plasticity is integral to understanding the nuances of mixed-species flock interactions.
Spindle assembly checkpoint-dependent mitotic delay is required for cell division in absence of centrosomes
Authors: Farrell KC , Wang Jennifer T. , Stearns Tim
Published: November 2022

The spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) temporally regulates mitosis by preventing progression from metaphase to anaphase until all chromosomes are correctly attached to the mitotic spindle. Centrosomes refine the spatial organization of the mitotic spindle at the spindle poles. However, centrosome loss leads to elongated mitosis, suggesting that centrosomes also inform the temporal organization of mitosis in mammalian cells. Here we find that the mitotic delay in acentrosomal cells is enforced by the SAC in a MPS1-dependent manner, and that a SAC-dependent mitotic delay is required for bipolar cell division to occur in acentrosomal cells. Although acentrosomal cells become polyploid, polyploidy is not sufficient to cause dependency on a SAC-mediated delay to complete cell division. Rather, the division failure in absence of MPS1 activity results from mitotic exit occurring before acentrosomal spindles can become bipolar. Furthermore, prevention of centrosome separation suffices to make cell division reliant on a SAC-dependent mitotic delay. Thus, centrosomes and their definition of two spindle poles early in mitosis provide a “timely two-ness” that allows cell division to occur in absence of a SAC-dependent mitotic delay.
Bacterial mobility and motility in porous media mimicked by microspheres
Authors: Shrestha Diksha , Ou Jun , Rogers Ariel , Jereb Amani , Wang Yong
Published: November 2022

Bacterial motion in porous media are essential for their survival, proper functioning, and various applications. Here we investigated the motion ofEscherichia colibacteria in microsphere-mimicked porous media. We observed reduced bacterial velocity and enhanced directional changes of bacteria as the density of microspheres increased, while such changes happened mostly around the microspheres and due to the collisions with the microspheres. More importantly, we established and quantified the correlation between the bacterial trapping in porous media and the geometric confinement imposed by the microspheres. In addition, numerical simulations showed that the active Brownian motion model in the presence of microspheres resulted in bacterial motion that are consistent with the experimental observations. Our study suggested that it is important to distinguish the ability of bacteria to move easily – bacterial mobility – from the ability of bacteria to move independently – bacteria motility. Our results showed that bacterial motility remains similar in porous media, but bacterial mobility was significantly affected by the pore-scale confinement.
Environmental luminance impairs socio-sexual recognition memory through a succinct retina to supraoptic nucleus circuit
Authors: Huang Yu-Fan , Liao Po-Yu , Yu Jo-Hsien , Chen Shih-Kuo
Published: November 2022

Social memory between the same gender or even different gender is a complex and heavily modulated process in the nervous system. It is important for an individual to form social memory between the opposite sex to either increase mating opportunities with multiple partners or form monogamous pair bonding. Therefore, a specific neuronal circuit to regulate social sexual memory may enhance the mating opportunity for an individual. It has been shown that both the auditory and somatosensory systems could increase the activity of oxytocin neurons in the paraventricular nucleus to regulate social behaviors. Although light exposure could influence various forms of memory, such as fear and object memory, how luminance signals modulate social recognition memory remains unclear. Here, we show that acute light exposure could impair the socio-sexual recognition memory (SSRM) in male mice. Contrary to sound and touch, light stimulation could inhibit oxytocin neurons in the SON (SONOT) through M1 SON-projecting ipRGCs and GABAergic neurons in the peri-SON (pSONGABA). Optogenetic activation of SONOTneurons with channelrhodopsin is sufficient to enhance the SSRM performance in male mice, even under light conditions. Our results show that the visual system could modulate SSRM through a succinct ipRGCs-pSONGABA-SONOT neuronal circuitry. Together, we demonstrate a dedicated neuronal circuit of how luminance affects memory formation for an individual toward different sex through the oxytocin system, a powerful modulatory neurohormone in the central nervous system.
Emergence of ion-channel mediated electrical oscillations inEscherichia colibiofilms
Authors: Akabuogu Emmanuel U. , Martorelli Victor , Krašovec Rok , Roberts Ian S. , Waigh Thomas A.
Published: November 2022

Bacterial biofilms are communities of bacteria usually attached to solid strata and often differentiated into complex structures. Communication across biofilms has been shown to involve chemical signaling and, more recently, electrical signaling in Gram positive biofilms. We report for the first time, community-level synchronized membrane potential dynamics in three-dimensionalE. colibiofilms. Two hyperpolarization events are observed in response to light stress. The first requires mechanically sensitive ion channels (MscK, MscL and MscS) and the second needs the Kch-potassium channel. The channels mediated both local spiking of singleE. colibiofilms and long-range coordinated electrical signaling inE. colibiofilms. The electrical phenomena are explained using Hodgkin-Huxley and 3D fire-diffuse-fire agent-based models. These data demonstrate that electrical wavefronts based on potassium ions are a mechanism by which signaling occurs in Gram negative biofilms and as such may represent a conserved mechanism for communication across biofilms.
Non-Mendelian inheritance patterns and extreme deviation rates of CGG repeats in autism
Authors: Annear Dale J. , Vandeweyer Geert , Sanchis-Juan Alba , Raymond F. Lucy , Kooy R. Frank
Published: November 2022

As expansions of CGG short tandem repeats (STRs) are established as the genetic etiology of many neurodevelopmental disorders, we aimed to elucidate the inheritance patterns and role of CGG STRs in autism-spectrum disorder (ASD). By genotyping 6063 CGG STR loci in a large cohort of trios and quads with an ASD-affected proband, we determined an unprecedented rate of CGG repeat length deviation across a single generation. Although the concept of repeat length being linked to deviation rate was solidified, we show how shorter STRs display greater degrees of size variation. We observed that CGG STRs did not segregate by Mendelian principles but with a bias against longer repeats, which appeared to magnify as repeat length increased. Through logistic regression, we identified 19 genes that displayed significantly higher rates and degrees of CGG STR expansion within the ASD-affected probands (P< 1 × 10−5). This study not only highlights novel repeat expansions that may play a role in ASD but also reinforces the hypothesis that CGG STRs are specifically linked to human cognition.
Structural transitions and mechanical properties of Zr2C under ambient and high-pressure conditions
Authors: Guo Yongliang , Chen Juncai , Wang Changying , Song Wei , Wei Junhong , Jiao Zhaoyong , Ke Xuezhi
Published: November 2022

Transition metal carbides have attracted considerable attention and are widely used in machining tools, hard coatings and aerospace components, owing to their excellent mechanical and thermal properties. The Zr–C system is a typical refractory and hard transition-metal carbide, and its structural integrity and stability under extreme conditions are critical for practical applications. Here, a computational study focusing on the structural stability and crystal evolution pattern of Zr2C under ambient and high-pressure conditions was performed using a particle-swarm optimization algorithm, in combination with first-principles calculations. The calculations identified seven viable stable or metastable crystalline phases of Zr2C, exhibiting Fd
3
m, R
3
m, Cmcm, Cmca, Pbcn, Pnma and I4/mcm symmetries; further, a series of structural phase transitions were determined as the pressure increased: Fd
3
m → R
3
m → Cmcm → Cmca. In addition, the mechanical and dynamical stabilities of these phases were verified, and their structural properties were investigated. Overall, this work reveals valuable information concerning the structural, mechanical and electronic properties of Zr2C, providing key insights into the mechanisms underlying its crystal evolution behavior.
Social network analysis reveals context‐dependent kin relationships in wild sulphur‐crested cockatoos Cacatua galerita
Authors: Penndorf Julia , Ewart Kyle M. , Klump Barbara Christina , Martin John M. , Aplin Lucy M.
Published: November 2022

A preference to associate with kin facilitates inclusive fitness benefits, and increased tolerance or cooperation between kin may be an added benefit of group living. Many species exhibit preferred associations with kin; however, it is often hard to disentangle active preferences from passive overlap, for example caused by limited dispersal or inheritance of social position.

Many parrots exhibit social systems consisting of pair‐bonded individuals foraging in variably sized fission‐fusion flocks within larger communal roosts of hundreds of individuals. Previous work has shown that, despite these fission–fusion dynamics, individuals can exhibit long‐term preferred foraging associations outside their pair bonds. Yet the underlying drivers of these social preferences remain largely unknown.

In this study, we use a network approach to examine the influence of kinship on social associations and interactions in wild, communally roosting sulphur‐crested cockatoos, Cacatua galerita. We recorded roost co‐membership, social associations and interactions in 561 individually marked birds across three neighbouring roosts. We then collected genetic samples from 205 cockatoos, and conducted a relationship analysis to construct a kinship network. Finally, we tested correlations between kinship and four social networks: association, affiliative, low‐intensity aggression and high‐intensity aggression.

Our result showed that while roosting groups were clearly defined, they showed little genetic differentiation or kin structuring. Between roost movement was high, with juveniles, especially females, repeatedly moving between roosts. Both within roosting communities, and when visiting different roosts, individuals preferentially associated with kin. Supporting this, individuals were also more likely to allopreen kin. However, contrary to expectation, individuals preferred to direct aggression towards kin, with this effect only observed when individuals shared roost membership.

By measuring social networks within and between large roosting groups, we could remove potential effects of passive spatial overlap on kin structuring. Our study reveals that sulphur‐crested cockatoos actively prefer to associate with kin, both within and between roosting groups. By examining this across different interaction types, we further demonstrate that sulphur‐crested cockatoos exhibit behavioural and context‐dependent interaction rules towards kin. Our results help reveal the drivers of social association in this species, while adding to the evidence for social complexity in parrots.
Consumer perceptions on privacy and confidentiality in dermatology for 3D total‐body imaging
Authors: Horsham Caitlin , Janda Monika , Kerr Melissa , Soyer H. Peter , Caffery Liam J.
Published: November 2022

As 3D total‐body photography for the early detection of melanoma is not yet widely used in clinical practice, we do not have a full understanding of patient's concerns about use, privacy and confidentiality, and if their concerns differ depending on the use‐case. We conducted a virtual consumer forum to assess patients concerns about privacy and confidentiality in dermatology imaging for research, artificial intelligence development and for their own clinical care.
Beyond educational workshops: How child‐focused NGOs can draw African rural parents out for sustainable intervention in childhoods
Authors: Yeboah Sampson Addo , Abbey Eunice , Boampong Michael
Published: November 2022

Educational workshops are channels for raising awareness and implementing childhood interventions in African communities. However, community (in)action during and after workshops can be a dichotomy that is less researched. Using a joint dialogic and ethnographic approach, we analysed and observed the responses and actions of NGO workers and rural folks on the occasion of a childhood intervention project. Findings reveal that community action in childhood during face‐to‐face interaction can be contradictory aftermath. We use the analytical framework of dramaturgy to inform and discuss how NGOs can get to know rural folks' deep‐seated perspectives on childhoods.
Southern Discomfort: Interrogating the Category of the Global South
Authors: Sud Nikita , Sánchez‐Ancochea Diego
Published: November 2022

Researchers in development studies have expressed discomfort at the hierarchy inherent in the use of ‘North’ and ‘South’, and cognate concepts like ‘First’ and ‘Third World’, or ‘emerging economies’. Instead of setting aside the terminology, this article delves into the layered meaning‐making around the notion of the South. Drawing on multi‐ and inter‐disciplinary perspectives, it maps out the South as (1) territory constructed through history, geography and time, and characterized by (2) relations of domination and othering, which are starkly visible in racial divisions wrought on the world through slavery, colonialism and recent struggles around migration. The article then explores Southern ‘talk back’ through analysis initiated in Southern institutions which highlights (3) structures that continue to divide the world through a political economy of underdevelopment. Finally, it turns to (4) politics which challenges these structures of domination through direct action and solidarities. The conclusion revisits the ‘stickiness’ of ‘the South’. It is argued that the South as a territorial, relational, structural and political construct is fundamentally about the distribution of power in the global system. While some uses of the concept enhance power asymmetries, others contribute to reducing them. This article concludes that a critical understanding of the contradictory meanings and uses of the concept within development studies is more important than discursive attempts to replace it.
Does problem‐based learning facilitate enactment of learner agency in undergraduate dental curricula? A Q study
Authors: Ali Kamran , Du Xiangyun , Lundberg Adrian
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Addressing a literature gap on leaner agency in health profession education, this study explores students' perceptions on which aspects of a problem‐based learning (PBL) environment cradle their leaner agency enactment.

Methods

Thirty‐eight students from a newly established undergraduate dental medicine programme in Qatar participated in the study. Q methodology was adopted to collect and analyse data both qualitatively and quantitatively. A 40‐statement Q‐set was established based on a proposed conceptual framework of learner agency in PBL, including three dimensions—intrapersonal, behavioural and environmental.

Results

Q methodological factor analysis identified four significantly different student viewpoints, which underscored participants' enactment of learner agency addressing the intrapersonal, behavioural and environmental dimensions of the conceptual framework. Despite differences in opinion regarding sources of learner agency, the four student viewpoints unanimously underscore the importance of PBL facilitators' expertise to nurture and develop agency amongst undergraduate students. Post‐sorting qualitative data further confirmed the quantitative analysis. Time constraints and workload were identified as the main challenges by the participants.

Conclusions

This study explored enactment of learner agency as perceived by undergraduate dental students in a PBL curriculum. The findings of this study provide new insights into participants' subjective understanding of learner agency in a PBL curriculum in dentistry. Structured support is needed for students having no prior PBL experiences to develop their learner agency at both intrapersonal and behavioural (self‐regulated learning) dimensions, and to ensure they interact with their learning environment proactively.
Development of a core outcome set for quality of life for adults with drug‐resistant epilepsy: A multistakeholder Delphi consensus study
Authors: Chiang Sharon , Moss Robert , Stern John M. , Hughes Inna , Josephson S. Andrew , Pearce Jennifer R. , Kopald Brandon E. , Patel Anup D. , Rao Vikram R.
Published: November 2022

Objective

In 2017, the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) convened the AAN Quality Measurement Set working group to define the improvement and maintenance of quality of life (QOL) as a key outcome measure in epilepsy clinical practice. A core outcome set (COS), defined as an accepted, standardized set of outcomes that should be minimally measured and reported in an area of health care research and practice, has not previously been defined for QOL in adult epilepsy.

Methods

A cross‐sectional Delphi consensus study was employed to attain consensus from patients and caregivers on the QOL outcomes that should be minimally measured and reported in epilepsy clinical practice. Candidate items were compiled from QOL scales recommended by the AAN 2017 Quality Measurement Set. Inclusion criteria to participate in the Delphi study were adults with drug‐resistant epilepsy diagnosed by a physician, no prior diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures or a cognitive and/or developmental disability, or caregivers of patients meeting these criteria.

Results

A total of 109 people satisfied inclusion/exclusion criteria and took part in Delphi Round 1 (patients, n = 95, 87.2%; caregivers, n = 14, 12.8%), and 55 people from Round 1 completed Round 2 (patients, n = 43, 78.2%; caregivers, n = 12, 21.8%). One hundred three people took part in the final consensus round. Consensus was attained by patients/caregivers on a set of 36 outcomes that should minimally be included in the QOL COS. Of these, 32 of the 36 outcomes (88.8%) pertained to areas outside of seizure frequency and severity.

Significance

Using patient‐centered Delphi methodology, this study defines the first COS for QOL measurement in clinical practice for adults with drug‐resistant epilepsy. This set highlights the diversity of factors beyond seizure frequency and severity that impact QOL in epilepsy.
Divergent response and adaptation of specific leaf area to environmental change at different spatio‐temporal scales jointly improve plant survival
Authors: Liu Zhaogang , Zhao Ming , Zhang Hongxiang , Ren Tingting , Liu Congcong , He Nianpeng
Published: November 2022

Specific leaf area (SLA) is one of the most important plant functional traits. It integrates multiple functions and reflects strategies of plants to obtain resources. How plants employ different strategies (e.g., through SLA) to respond to dynamic environmental conditions remains poorly understood. This study aimed to explore the spatial variation in SLA and its divergent adaptation through the lens of biogeographic patterns, evolutionary history, and short‐term responses. SLA data for 5424 plant species from 76 natural communities in China were systematically measured and integrated with meta‐analysis of field experiments (i.e., global warming, drought, and nitrogen addition). The mean value of SLA across all species was 21.8 m2 kg−1, ranging from 0.9 to 110.2 m2 kg−1. SLA differed among different ecosystems, temperature zones, vegetation types, and functional groups. Phylogeny had a weak effect on SLA, but plant species evolved toward higher SLA. Furthermore, SLA responded nonlinearly to environmental change. Unexpectedly, radiation was one of the main factors determining the spatial variation in SLA on a large scale. Conversely, short‐term manipulative experiments showed that SLA increased with increased resource availability and tended to stabilize with treatment duration. However, different species exhibited varying response patterns. Overall, variation in long‐term adaptation of SLA to environmental gradients and its short‐term response to resource pulses jointly improve plant adaptability to a changing environment. Overall SLA‐environment relationships should be emphasized as a multidimensional strategy for elucidating environmental change in future research.
Examining the diversity, stability and functioning of marine fish communities across a latitudinal gradient
Authors: Yan Helen F. , Casey Jordan M. , Knowlton Nancy , Duffy J. Emmett , Brandl Simon J.
Published: November 2022

Aim

As anthropogenic stressors on the biosphere intensify, understanding how communities respond to disturbances is critical. Biodiversity is often thought to promote the stability of communities over time and enhance ecosystem functioning. However, results have been inconsistent, and the multifaceted linkages among diversity, stability and functioning under acute disturbances remain poorly understood. We experimentally tested the responses of marine fish communities to disturbance (i.e., acute habitat loss) across a diversity gradient spanning 35 degrees of latitude in the western Atlantic Ocean to assess the diversity–stability relationship and the interplay between diversity, stability, and fish biomass recovery (as a proxy for function) in marine fish communities.

Location

Western Atlantic Ocean [Maine, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Florida (USA), Belize and Panama].

Time period

2016–2017.

Major taxa studied

Small, bottom‐dwelling (‘cryptobenthic’) fishes.

Methods

We experimentally tested the response of marine fish communities to disturbance across a diversity gradient on human‐made dock pilings. We holistically sampled cryptobenthic fish communities, then we imposed a severe disturbance by removing all benthic epifauna. We then compared the community stability, defined as the constancy in community composition, on disturbed and undisturbed pilings after one year.

Results

Diversity showed a negative effect on community stability at both the regional (across docks) and local (within docks) scales. Similarly, local diversity was negatively correlated with ecosystem function. These effects are exacerbated by the habitat loss imposed via our experimental treatment.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that habitat loss may re‐shuffle diverse, tropical communities more intensively than species‐poor, temperate communities, which impacts biomass recovery, our proxy of functioning. Contrary to ecological theory, in small‐bodied, benthos‐associated vertebrate communities, biodiversity may neither promote stability nor functioning, suggesting that human disturbances may be particularly impactful in tropical, high‐diversity ecosystems.
THE POWER OF THE FEDERAL RESERVE CHAIR
Authors: Riboni Alessandro , Ruge‐Murcia Francisco
Published: November 2022

This article examines the influence exerted by the Federal Reserve chair on monetary policy decisions. We construct a voting model where the chair selects the proposal that is initially put to a vote but is subject to an acceptance constraint that incorporates the preferences of the median Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) member and the probability of counterproposals. The model is estimated by maximum likelihood using real‐time data from FOMC meetings. Results for all chairs in our sample show that the chair's proposal is the result of a compromise, reflecting a stable balance of power within the FOMC.
The renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system, neurohumoral axis and cardiovascular mortality in LURIC
Authors: Yazdani Babak , Delgado Graciela E. , Kleber Marcus E. , Yücel Gökhan , Husain‐Syed Faeq , Kraemer Thomas D. , Jochims Jan , Leipe Jan , März Winfried , Krämer Bernhard K.
Published: November 2022

Although neurohormones and Renin‐Angiotensin‐Aldosterone‐System (RAAS) components are important predictors of cardiovascular mortality (CVM), their importance for predicting outcomes in patients with/without RAAS‐blockers and different degrees of arterial stiffness is less understood. We therefore analyzed long‐term data from the Ludwigshafen Risk and Cardiovascular Health (LURIC) study in 3316 patients subdivided according to pulse pressure (PP) and RAAS‐blocker use. Patients on RAAS‐inhibition had higher renin and noradrenaline, lower aldosterone and aldosterone/renin quotient (ARQ). Renin and noradrenaline significantly predicted CVM in patients without RAAS‐blocker (HR = 1.17, 1.15) and in patients receiving angiotensin‐converting‐enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (HR = 1.17, 1.29), whereas aldosterone predicted CVM only in patients receiving ACE‐inhibitors (HR = 1.13). CVM was predicted independently from PP by renin, noradrenaline and angiotensin II. Independently from RAAS inhibition renin decreased and ARQs increased with rising PP. Furthermore, noradrenaline increased with PP, but only without ACE‐inhibition. The HR for CVM in the ACE‐inhibitor group were 1.29, 1.28, 1.29 for renin in the first, second and third PP quartiles and 1.22, and 1.19 for aldosterone in the second and fourth quartile. Furthermore, we showed that noradrenaline predicts CVM in all PP quartiles in patients with ACE‐inhibition. In the RAAS‐blocker‐free group, the HR for renin for CVM were 1.36 and 1.18 in the third and fourth PP quartiles, but neither aldosterone nor noradrenaline were predictive for CVM within the PP quartiles. Renin and noradrenaline are strong predictors of CVM regardless of RAAS blockade, whereas aldosterone is predictive only in the ACE‐inhibitor group. Catecholamines but not renin are associated with rising PP.
Do preventative care guidelines emphasize behaviour change? A content analysis of three commonly used Australian general practice guidelines
Authors: Prathivadi Pallavi , Advocat Jenny , Ball Lauren , Clark Alex , Williams Lauren T. , Sturgiss Elizabeth
Published: November 2022

Rationale

Preventive health is a core part of primary care clinical practice and it is critical for both disease prevention and reducing the consequences of chronic disease. In primary care, the 5As framework is often used to guide behaviour change consultations for smoking, nutrition, alcohol use and physical activity.

Aims and Objectives

Our objective was to analyze the emphasis placed on each 5As term in commonly used guidelines in Australian general practice and compare this to behaviour change terms/concepts essential to effective consultations.

Method

A content analysis was undertaken to explore frequency of 5A terms and key behaviour change concepts/terms chapter‐by‐chapter across the three most commonly used guidelines in Australian general practice.

Results

The prevalence of each 5As term differed in all three guidelines, with ‘Arrange’ being mentioned the least often. Behaviour change concepts and terms, such as patient‐centredness, listening, trust and tailoring, were infrequently used and were often confined to a separate chapter of the guidelines.

Conclusion

The language and content of the guidelines contrast with known effective components of behaviour change consultations. Future revisions could reconsider emphasis of 5As terms to avoid paternalistic approaches, improve shared language across guidelines and incorporate behavioural science principles to enhance preventative care delivery.
Nutritional enhancement of fruit bars with omega rich food source fortification
Authors: Rana Alisha , Kaushal Manisha , Vaidya Devina , Gupta Anil , Verma Anil , Gautam Anjali , Sharma Ruchi
Published: November 2022

Consumer awareness of the health benefits of omega‐3 fatty acids is driving the increasing consumption of food fortified with essential fatty acids. Food fortification has been identified as the workable strategy by the WHO and FAO to decrease the incidence of nutrient deficiencies at the global level and fruit/s cereal‐based bars are one of the most economical and convenient functional foods which substitute for fresh fruits and vegetables as a source of various nutritional elements. Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) has gained importance due to its unique nutrient profile, particularly omega‐3 and omega‐6 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber. Due to its high omega fatty acid content, the present study was proposed to develop and evaluate apple cv. Golden Delicious and apricot cv. New Castle based functional fruit bars fortified with linseed for the benefit of general masses. Linseed fortified fruit leather was prepared by blending individual fruit pulp (apple and apricot) with two different forms of linseed namely, whole and coarsely ground in varying concentration of 5, 10, 15, and 20% where the Total soluble solids (TSS) of fruit pulp was raised to 25°B by adding cane sugar powder and the mixture was well homogenized followed by addition of linseed in varying concentration. Thereafter, the mixture was dried in mechanical dehydrator at 55 ± 2°C to a moisture content of 16–20%. Our investigation on omega fatty acid rich fruit bars concluded that blending of 10.00% unroasted whole linseed and 15.00% coarsely ground linseed was highly acceptable with respect to nutritional and sensory characteristics for the development of functional fruit bars rich in omega fatty acids.

Novelty impact statement

Health benefits of omega‐3‐fatty acids.

Fortification of Golden Delicious and apricot cv. New Castle based functional fruit bars fortified with linseed for the benefit of general masses.

The results shows that blending of 10.00% unroasted whole linseed and 15.00% coarsely ground linseed was highly acceptable with respect to nutritional and sensory characteristics for the development of functional fruit bars rich in omega fatty acids.
Production of cream with size differentiated milk fat globules—modified centrifugal separation approach
Authors: Halder Kumaresh , Sahu Jatindra K. , Naik Satya N. , Kumar Anil
Published: November 2022

The present study was aimed to produce creams (>25% fat) with size based fractioned fat globules by employing a modified centrifugal separation process, and to evaluate the fatty acid composition and thermal properties of fat fractions. Cream separation was conducted in two stages. First stage was employed for producing cream by partial skimming of whole milk and second stage was used for producing cream by the washing of cream from first stage. Results showed that, two subsequent separation stages were able to produce creams with mean fat globules size of 4.16 and 4.77 μm, respectively from whole cow milk with average fat globule size of 3.52 μm. Washed cream contained higher proportion (32.35%) of large fat globules (>5 μm), significantly higher (p < 0.05) proportion (70.79%) of saturated fatty acids, and greater quantity (17.73%) of solid fat at 30°C. In contrast, fully separated cream produced by unmodified separator contained higher proportion (16.14%) of small size globules (<3 μm), significantly higher (p < 0.05) amount of short chain fatty acid (1.11%), monounsaturated fatty acid (25.06%), and greater quantity (54.55%) of fat melted at 10°C.

Novelty Impact Statement

Production of cream (i.e. >25% fat) with size differentiated fat globules was done using a modified centrifugal separator and separation process without using any concentration stage. Creams with different diameter classes of fat globules possessed different fatty acid composition and thermal properties, which could impact the properties and qualities of a wide variety of products. The findings of the present study could open the valuable windows for production of creams with size based fractioned fat globules in large scale and opportunity for their application in different products.