bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilising farm‐level panel data to estimate climate change impacts and adaptation potentials
Authors: Quddoos Abdul , Salhofer Klaus , Morawetz Ulrich B.
Published: April 2022

We combine farm accounting data with high‐resolution meteorological data, and climate scenarios to estimate climate change impacts and adaptation potentials at the farm level. To do so, we adapt the seminal model of Moore and Lobell (2014) who applied panel data econometrics to data aggregated from the farm to the regional (subnational) level. We discuss and empirically investigate the advantages and challenges of applying such models to farm‐level data, including issues of endogeneity of explanatory variables, heterogeneity of farm responses to weather shocks, measurement errors in meteorological variables, and aggregation bias. Empirical investigations into these issues reveal that endogeneity due to measurement errors in temperature and precipitation variables, as well as heterogeneous responses of farms toward climate change may be problematic. Moreover, depending on how data are aggregated, results differ substantially compared to farm‐level analysis. Based on data from Austria and two climate scenarios (Effective Measures and High Emission) for 2040, we estimate that the profits of farms will decline, on average, by 4.4% (Effective Measures) and 10% (High Emission). Adaptation options help to considerably ameliorate the adverse situation under both scenarios. Our results reinforce the need for mitigation and adaptation to climate change.
Influence of susceptible and resistant potato cultivars on the population of the potato cyst nematode Globodera rostochiensis Ro1 and on potato yields in a highly infested field in Australia
Authors: de Boer Rudolf F. , Wainer John , Norng Sorn , Beardsell David V. , Crump Nigel S. , Washington William S. , Yen Alan
Published: April 2022

The potato cyst nematode, Globodera rostochiensis, is a quarantine pest in Australia affecting a relatively small number of properties in three different production areas in the State of Victoria. The effects of susceptible (Trent, Sebago and Coliban) and H1‐resistant potato cultivars (Atlantic, Crop 13 and Nicola) on nematode populations were compared in two trials in a naturally infested field in the 2008/09 season (Trial 1) and in the 2009/10 season (Trial 2). The latter included a bare fallow treatment. The reproduction factor Pf/Pi (final compared with initial nematode population) was used to determine treatment effects. Initial population density was very high, averaging 111 and 119 eggs g−1 soil in Trial 1 and 2, respectively. The Pf/Pi of population density (eggs g−1 soil) was greater after growing susceptible cultivars (average 1.74 and 2.92 in Trials 1 and 2, respectively) than after growing resistant cultivars (average 0.72 and 0.61 in Trials 1 and 2, respectively), or after a bare fallow (1.09) in Trial 2. This correlated with higher Pf/Pi values of cysts 500 g−1 soil and eggs cyst−1 for susceptible cultivars than for resistant cultivars. Average Pf/Pi values greater than one in both trials are consistent with more cysts and an increased population density after growing susceptible cultivars. There was a trend of population decline, that is, Pf/Pi < 1, after growing resistant cultivars (average Pf/Pi values of eggs cyst−1 of 0.77 and 0.35 and of eggs g−1 soil of 0.72 and 0.61, for Trials 1 and 2, respectively). However, Trial 2 showed that these Pf/Pi values were not significantly less than those for the bare fallow (0.68 eggs cyst−1 and 1.09 eggs g−1 soil). The susceptible cultivars Trent and Sebago produced lower yields than the resistant cultivars in both trials. In contrast, the susceptible Coliban yielded as well as the resistant cultivars, suggesting a high level of tolerance of this cultivar to infestation by the nematode. The resistant cultivar Crop 13 produced 34% and 36% greater total yields in Trials 1 and 2, respectively, than the once popular, but susceptible cultivar Sebago. This is the first report of the effects of potato cultivars on a population of the potato cyst nematode in an Australian field. The use of H1‐resistant potato cultivars can feasibly reduce populations of G. rostochiensis Ro1 on infested land and reduce PCN risk on land regulated as “linked” with infested land.
The legacy of colonial rule: On the impact of the railway zones in modern China
Authors: Li Nan , Dong Baomin
Published: April 2022

This paper examines the long‐ and short‐run impacts of the railway zones associated with the China Eastern and South Manchuria Railways in Manchuria, which were administered by Russia and Japan, respectively, from the early 1900s to the 1920s. Despite the fact that ‘railway imperialism’ impaired China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and constituted a humiliating quasi‐colonial episode in Chinese history, railway zones nevertheless had a noticeable impact on Manchuria's local economies. Through a reconstruction of the historical dataset and cliometrics, we show that, among the railway zones in northeastern China, only those attached to the South Manchuria Railway exerted a significant and positive impact. Specifically, its railway zone had higher urbanisation and literacy rates and a higher percentage of professionals in its industrial and commercial sectors in the 1930s, and these effects persist to the present day as an unintended outcome. Apart from the agglomeration of direct manufacturing investment in these railway zones, an additional channel through which the impact took effect was the provision of public goods, such as schools and hospitals, which served as necessary conditions for long‐term development. This study sheds light on understanding the persistence of colonial history as a root of development.
Expression of nuclear factor kappa B components in the ovine maternal liver in early pregnancy periods
Authors: Fang Shengya , Zhang Taipeng , Qiao Haiyun , Hao Shaopeng , Zhang Leying , Yang Ling
Published: April 2022

There is a systemic immunological adaptation to maintaining tolerance towards the allogeneic fetus, and the liver participates in the adaptive immune tolerance during normal pregnancy. Nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) signalings contribute to immune regulation and liver homoeostasis. The objective of this study is to explore the effects of early pregnancy on expression of NF‐κB components in the maternal liver in sheep. The maternal livers were sampled on Day 16 of the estrous cycle, and Days 13, 16, and 25 of gestation, and the expression of NF‐κB components, including NF‐κB1 (p50), NF‐κB2 (p52), RelA (p65), RelB, and c‐Rel, was detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blot analysis, and immunohistochemical analysis. Our data revealed that early pregnancy inhibited the expression of NF‐κB1 and c‐Rel, but the expression of NF‐κB1 and c‐Rel was increased during early pregnancy. However, early pregnancy enhanced the expression of NF‐κB2, RelA, and RelB with the pregnancy progress. In conclusion, early pregnancy regulates the expression of NF‐κB components in the maternal livers, which may contribute to maintaining maternal liver homeostasis and immune tolerance during early pregnancy in sheep.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors and risk of age‐related macular degeneration in individuals with hypertension
Authors: Subramanian Anuradhaa , Han Diana , Braithwaite Tasanee , Thayakaran Rasiah , Zemedikun Dawit T. , Gokhale Krishna M. , Lee Wen Hwa , Coker Jesse , Keane Pearse A. , Denniston Alastair K. , Nirantharakumar Krishnarajah , Azoulay Laurent , Adderley Nicola J.
Published: April 2022

Aims

Several observational studies have examined the potential protective effect of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE‐I) use on the risk of age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) and have reported contradictory results owing to confounding and time‐related biases. We aimed to assess the risk of AMD in a base cohort of patients aged 40 years and above with hypertension among new users of ACE‐I compared to an active comparator cohort of new users of calcium channel blockers (CCB) using data obtained from IQVIA Medical Research Data, a primary care database in the UK.

Methods

In this study, 53 832 and 43 106 new users of ACE‐I and CCB were included between 1995 and 2019, respectively. In an on‐treatment analysis, patients were followed up from the time of index drug initiation to the date of AMD diagnosis, loss to follow‐up, discontinuation or switch to the comparator drug. A comprehensive range of covariates were used to estimate propensity scores to weight and match new users of ACE‐I and CCB. Standardized mortality ratio weighted Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate hazard ratios of developing AMD.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 2 years (interquartile range 1–5 years), the incidence rate of AMD was 2.4 (95% confidence interval 2.2–2.6) and 2.2 (2.0–2.4) per 1000 person‐years among the weighted new users of ACE‐I and CCB, respectively. There was no association of ACE‐I use on the risk of AMD compared to CCB use in either the propensity score weighted or matched, on‐treatment analysis (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.07 [95% confidence interval 0.90–1.27] and 0.87 [0.71–1.07], respectively).

Conclusion

We found no evidence that the use of ACE‐I is associated with risk of AMD in patients with hypertension.
Exposure to workplace bullying and negative gossip behaviors: Buffering roles of personal and contextual resources
Authors: De Clercq Dirk
Published: April 2022

This study adds to business ethics research by investigating how employees' exposure to workplace bullying might spur their negative gossip behaviors, as well as how this effect might be buffered by their access to two personal resources (religiosity and innovation propensity) and two contextual resources (work meaningfulness and trust in top management). Survey data collected among Canadian‐based employees who work in the religious sector reveal that workplace bullying increases the likelihood that they spread negative rumors about other organizational members, but this effect is weaker when employees (1) can draw from their religious faith, (2) are motivated to generate innovative ideas, (3) derive meaning from their work, and (4) have confidence in the trustworthiness of top management. For management scholars and practitioners, this study thus pinpoints different resources that diminish the risk that workplace bullying infuses work environments with even more negative energy, as might occur if bullying spills over into additional, negative gossip behaviors.
Britain and BrExit: Is the UK more attractive to supervisors? An analysis of the wage premium to supervision across the EU
Authors: Leonida Leone , Giangreco Antonio , Scicchitano Sergio , Biagetti Marco
Published: April 2022

We studied which European Union (EU) economy was more attractive prior to Brexit for employees in supervisory positions. We estimate the extra wage that supervisors earn relative to their subordinates—the wage premium to supervision (WPS)—at different quantiles of distribution of wages for 26 European economies. We find that the UK rewards supervisors more than other EU economies. Moreover, the WPS increases with wage and so increases wage inequality. Over 10% of the WPS depends on the national economic context. We discuss the implications for immigration and policymakers in relation to the post‐Brexit process.
Contractional salt deformation in a recently inverted basin: Miocene to current salt deformation within the central Algerian basin
Authors: Blondel Simon , Bellucci Massimo , Evans Sian , Del Ben Anna , Camerlenghi Angelo
Published: April 2022

Field analogues illustrating the early stage of deformation of shortening structures in salt‐bearing orogenic fold‐and‐thrust belts are not yet well illustrated in literature. The relatively young Messinian salt of the Algerian basin could represent a good case example of such systems. The Algerian Basin is a deep‐water Miocene back‐arc basin including a layer of mobile Messinian evaporites up to 2 km thick. The Messinian salt was deposited in an already inverted basin, after its extensive stage. Its inversion initiated in the Tortonian, with a N‐NW shortening induced by the north‐westward motion of the African plate. In this study, we use new 2D multichannel seismic data to identify, classify and map salt structures throughout the central Algerian Basin and re‐assess its structural style. We interpret contractional salt tectonic structures, such as buckle folds, squeezed diapirs and related salt sheets as evidence of regional thick‐skinned shortening episodes. We conclude that horizontal displacement loading has driven salt deformation within the basin since its deposition. We also show spatial variations in the structural style of the central Algerian Basin, both along‐ and down‐dip. We demonstrate that the initial shortening‐related salt deformation in the late Messinian was focussed along the Algerian margin and later shifted outward toward the Balearic margin in the Plio‐Quaternary. The shifting of the deformation front is interpreted to be a result of the thickening and strengthening of the overburden. The second peak of deformation may have reactivated faults along the Emile‐Baudot escarpment with thick‐skinned deformation. We also observe a variation in the intensity of the salt deformation along the margin from SW to NE, which may be due to variable tectonic loading applied along the Algerian margin or the pre‐shortening distribution of salt.
The importance of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM)10 and ADAM17 in the pathogenesis of psoriasis
Authors: Gül Ceren , Kilic Sevilay , Şehitoğlu Müşerref Hilal
Published: April 2022

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by inflammation, hyperproliferation and neoangiogenesis. The disease pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated. The proteins, a disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM)10 and ADAM17, are important proteases serving as regulators of inflammation.

Aim

To determine the role of ADAM10 and ADAM17 in the pathogenesis of psoriasis through the comparison of their serum levels in patients with psoriasis and healthy controls (HCs).

Methods

In total, 179 participants (90 patients with psoriasis and 89 HCs) were enrolled in the study. Levels of ADAM10 and ADAM17 in serum were measured by ELISA for each participant from the patient and HC groups. The statistical data analysis was performed using SPSS (V19.0) and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The mean values for serum ADAM10 and ADAM17 were, respectively, 3.1 ± 2.2 and 76.5 ± 31.1 in the psoriasis group and 8.6 ± 3.7 and 29.5 ± 22.4 in the HC group. A statistically significant difference between the patient and HC groups was detected for both ADAM10 and ADAM17 levels (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Considering the high levels of ADAM17 in the psoriasis group, ADAM17 protease might have a crucial role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, while the low levels of ADAM10 might be attributable to its regulatory effect on keratinocyte differentiation and proliferation.
‘I just want my parenting to be able to be better than what it is’: A qualitative exploration of parenting strengths and needs of mothers experiencing homelessness
Authors: Owens Caitlyn R. , Stokes Mc Kenzie N. , Haskett Mary E.
Published: April 2022

Perspectives of parents themselves should be central in framing services delivered to families experiencing homelessness. We explored the strengths and positive features of mother–child relationships and insight into mothers' views of the impact of living in shelters. We conducted qualitative coding of the Five‐Minute Speech Sample (FMSS) of 41 mothers of young children. Results revealed a wide variety of strategies that mothers used to promote their children's resilient functioning. This included focusing on their children's strengths, providing unconditional love and engaging in positive activities together. Mothers also voiced varied approaches to parenting, including many positive practices. Mothers' FMSS included ways that living in the shelter had a negative impact on their child's functioning, and they reported negative changes in their relationship with their child since moving into the shelter. Finally, mothers discussed ways in which living in the shelter had influenced their parenting styles and approaches to discipline. We discuss implications of the findings for supporting families residing in shelters, and we provide recommendations for further research.
Phylogeny and biogeography of the ancient spider family Filistatidae (Araneae) is consistent both with long‐distance dispersal and vicariance following continental drift
Authors: Magalhaes Ivan L. F. , Ramírez Martín J.
Published: April 2022

Filistatids, the crevice weavers, are an ancient family of cribellate spiders without extant close relatives. As one of the first lineages of araneomorph spiders, they present a complicated mixture of primitive and derived characters that make them a key taxon to elucidate the phylogeny of spiders, as well as the evolution of phenotypic characters in this group. Their moderate diversity (187 species in 19 genera) is distributed mainly in arid and semi‐arid subtropical zones of all continents, except Antarctica. The objective of this paper is to generate a comprehensive phylogenetic hypothesis for this family to advance the understanding of its morphological evolution and biogeography, as well as lay the basis for a natural classification scheme. By studying the morphology using optical and electronic microscopy techniques, we produced a matrix of 302 morphological characters coded for a sample of 103 species of filistatids chosen to represent the phylogenetic diversity of the family. In addition, we included sequences of four molecular markers (COI, 16S, H3 and 28S; 3787 aligned positions) of 70 filistatid species. The analysis of the data (morphological, molecular, and combined) consistently indicates the separation of the Filistatidae into two subfamilies, Prithinae and Filistatinae, in addition to supporting several groups of genera: Filistata, Zaitunia and an undescribed genus from Madagascar; Sahastata and Kukulcania; all Prithinae except Filistatinella and Microfilistata; Antilloides and Filistatoides; a large Old World group including Pritha, Tricalamus, Afrofilistata, Labahitha, Yardiella, Wandella and putative new genera; and a South American group formed by Lihuelistata, Pikelinia and Misionella. Pholcoides is transferred to Filistatinae and Microfilistata is transferred to Prithinae, and each represents the sister group to the remaining genera of its own subfamily. Most genera are valid, although Pikelinia is paraphyletic with respect to Misionella, so we consider the two genera as synonyms and propose a few new generic combinations. Considering the new phylogenetic hypothesis, we discuss the evolution of some morphological character systems and the biogeography of the family. The ages of divergence between clades were estimated using a total‐evidence tip‐dating approach by including fossils of Filistatidae and early spider clades; this approach resulted in younger age estimates than those obtained with traditional node‐dating. Filistatidae is an ancient family that started diversifying in the Mesozoic and most genera date to the Cretaceous. Clades displaying transcontinental distributions were most likely affected by continental drift, but at least one clade shows unequivocal signs of transoceanic long‐distance dispersal.
Wearing a surgical mask: Effects on gas exchange and hemodynamic responses during maximal exercise
Authors: Alkan Büşra , Özalevli Sevgi , Sert Özlem A.
Published: April 2022

The importance of using masks during exercise has increased since the coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19). This study aimed to investigate the effects of using surgical masks on gas exchange and exercise responses in maximal exercise. Twenty‐six participants were included. Participants performed the maximal exercise tests twice, masked, and unmasked. Gas exchange parameters (at maximal exercise and anaerobic threshold [AT]) and hemodynamic responses were measured. In the hemodynamic responses measured at rest, only the saturation of peripheral oxygen (SpO2) was lower in the masked (mean: 97.23 ± 1.33%) measurement than in the unmasked (mean: 97.96 ± 1.07%) measurement (p = 0.006). Test duration was lower in the masked test (unmasked: 10.32 ± 1.36 min vs. masked: 10.03 ± 1.42 min, p = 0.030). Peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) (unmasked: 31.23 ± 5.37 vs. masked: 27.03 ± 6.46 ml/kg/min), minute ventilation (VE) l/min, and energy expenditure (EE) kcal/hour were higher in unmasked tests (p < 0.001). There was no difference in the gas exchange parameters measured at the AT in the masked and unmasked tests (p > 0.05). Respiratory gas exchange parameters were affected in peak exercise due to increased respiratory workload, but not at the AT. There was no change in hemodynamic responses because vascular control may not be affected by mask usage.
Comparative phylogeography in a marine biodiversity hotspot provides novel insights into evolutionary processes across the Atlantic‐Indian Ocean transition
Authors: Dalongeville Alicia , Nielsen Erica S. , Teske Peter R. , von der Heyden Sophie
Published: April 2022

Aim

Intraspecific genetic variation is a key component of biodiversity, with higher diversity indicating greater resilience and population substructuring suggesting unique evolutionary histories. Comparative approaches, in which intraspecific genetic variation is assessed across multiple species, are powerful tools to identify evolutionary hotspots, but are still rarely applied at spatial scales relevant to conservation planning. Here, we use comparative phylogeography to understand patterns and potential drivers of genetic variation within a biodiversity and ocean warming hotspot.

Location

The South African coastline, Indian/Atlantic Oceans.

Methods

A literature search was conducted to obtain mitochondrial DNA cytochrome oxidasecsubunit I and cytochromebsequence data for 17 marine fish and invertebrate species. From these data, we compared averages of haplotype and nucleotide diversity, and within‐region ΦSTbetween four biogeographic provinces in the region. Mixed linear models tested whether environmental variability, habitat preference, or geographic location significantly influence genetic variation.

Results

Average diversity values differed between haplotype and nucleotide diversity, but both broadly displayed highest diversity levels within the South‐West bioregion, which is also a region of high levels of within‐region ΦST. Range in sea surface temperatures (SSTs) was the only significant fixed‐effect term in the haplotype diversity mixed linear models. Mean SST, stability in SSTs since the Mid‐Holocene and position within the species' geographic distribution all had no significant effect on genetic variation.

Main conclusions

Along this coastline characterized by high environmental heterogeneity, we find that variation in temperature is a prominent source of intraspecific variation. Genetic diversity differs between bioregions, but does not display higher levels within the core of each species’ range when assessed across multiple species. With elevated levels of genetic diversity, the South‐West region of the South African coast is highlighted as a conservation priority area, representing both high genetic diversity and differentiation across taxa.
Delineating biogeographic regions in Indian Ocean deep‐sea vents and implications for conservation
Authors: Zhou Yadong , Chen Chong , Zhang Dongsheng , Wang Yejian , Watanabe Hiromi Kayama , Sun Jin , Bissessur Dass , Zhang Ruiyan , Han Yuru , Sun Dong , Xu Peng , Lu Bo , Zhai Hongchang , Han Xiqiu , Tao Chunhui , Qiu Zhongyan , Sun Yanan , Liu Zhensheng , Qiu Jian‐Wen , Wang Chunsheng
Published: April 2022

Aim

The pattern of biodiversity and biogeography is crucial to informing management and conservation strategy. But a lack of study across multiple ridge systems, especially for the Carlsberg Ridge, has hampered the conception of the overall picture for the Indian Ocean vents, a top target for deep‐sea exploration of massive sulphides. Here, we aim to characterize fauna from three new vent fields on the Carlsberg Ridge for the first time, and answer 1) what is the biogeographic pattern for vent fauna within the Indian Ocean and 2) how does this pattern guide the future environmental management on the Indian Ocean ridges.

Location

Vents on the Carlsberg Ridge (CR), Central Indian Ridge (CIR), and Southwest Indian Ridge (SWIR).

Taxon

Macrofauna.

Methods

Samples, still images and videos were collected from vent fields by either submersible or TV‐guided grab. A comprehensive dataset of 11 fields on Indian Ocean ridges were obtained based on taxa identification and compilation. Genetic connectivity was analysed for six species using COI sequences. A framework for identifying biogeographic regions based on beta diversity measurement βsim was employed to reveal species turnover along the Indian Ocean ridges.

Results

Faunal assemblages at three new vents on the CR hosted a total of 34 species. Significant genetic differentiation was detected between southern SWIR and CIR (plus Tiancheng) for three species, and between CIR (plus Tiancheng) and CR for four species. Hierarchical clustering of βsim support division of the Indian Ocean vents into three clades.

Main conclusions

Species turnover along the ridges supported the separation of Indian Ocean vents into three discrete biogeographic units, boundaries between which largely corresponded to genetic breaks for shared species with lower dispersal capabilities. The results clearly show that the conservation of Indian Ocean vents must target three provinces, simultaneously.
Protective and risk factors associated with involved fatherhood in a traditional culture
Authors: Kisbu Yasemin , Akçinar Berna , Kuşcul G. Hilal , Bozok Mehmet , Turunç Gamze , Fişek Güler
Published: April 2022

Objective

Consistent with ecological systems theory and the heuristic model of parental behavior dynamics, the current study is focused on both individual and contextual factors that determine fatherhood involvement in the context of a traditional patriarchal culture.

Background

Father–child interaction during the early childhood period is a salient factor in predicting later child outcomes. However, studies on antecedents of involved fatherhood are scarce, mostly concentrated on one aspect of fathering behavior, and limited to few cultural contexts.

Method

Data were collected from a representative urban sample of fathers of preschoolers in Turkey (N = 1,070). Different components of fatherhood involvement were assessed to project three distinct paternal behavior dimensions as care, affection, and control.

Results

Father role satisfaction, psychological value attributed to the child, and perceived family support were positively associated with involved fatherhood and higher parental warmth. Working hours per day was negatively associated with involved fatherhood, as expected. Higher life satisfaction was associated with higher positive parenting. Patriarchal views of masculinity were found to be the main predictor of parental physical punishment, controlling for all other predictors in the model.

Conclusion

Study findings emphasized the importance of factors other than parenting skills that contribute to fathers' parental effectiveness.

Implications

Our study's findings have implications for family practices and policies. For example, besides parenting skills, father support programs should also focus on other factors such as developing awareness of traditional masculinity norms and gender role prescriptions that can harm democratic family environments and childcare practices.
Warmer water temperatures exacerbate the negative impacts of inundation on herbaceous riparian plants
Authors: Main Alanna C. , Greet Joe , Vivian Lyndsey M. , Jones Christopher S.
Published: April 2022

In temperate climates with cool‐season (winter/spring) dominated rainfall, river regulation typically reduces natural flow peaks and increases warm‐season flows for irrigation, often to the detriment of stream health. However, the mechanisms driving seasonal effects of elevated river flows on herbaceous plants are not well understood. Our study aimed to improve understanding of the role of water temperature in herbaceous plant responses to season of inundation to inform flow management in temperate regulated rivers.

In a tank‐based experiment in late spring, we tested the effect of inundation durations typical of environmental or managed flow pulses (0–36 days) in both cool (ambient, c. 18°C) and artificially warmed water (c. 23°C) on eight herbaceous plant species selected across a range of expected inundation tolerances, growth forms, and origins (locally exotic or native).

All species showed negative effects of inundation and greater reductions in survival and/or growth with longer inundation durations, and inundation tolerance varied among species as expected. Plants inundated in warm water died faster and/or at higher proportions than those inundated in cool water, for inundation intolerant to moderately inundation‐tolerant species, with no mortality effects in highly inundation‐tolerant species. Plant growth was relatively unaffected by temperature, except for minor reductions in growth and biomass, primarily in response to warm compared to cool inundation.

Our study clearly demonstrates that extended inundation was detrimental to all species tested and that warmer water exacerbated these negative effects, especially for inundation‐intolerant and moderately inundation‐tolerant plant species. This suggests that warm‐season flows in temperate regulated rivers should be short in duration to reduce the risk of damage to vegetation in riparian zones.

Our findings strengthen our mechanistic understanding of herbaceous plant responses to inundation in different seasons, providing further evidence that water temperature is a key factor affecting these responses.
Re‐assessment of the climatic controls on the carbon and water fluxes of a boreal aspen forest over 1996–2016: Changing sensitivity to long‐term climatic conditions
Authors: Liu Peng , Barr Alan G. , Zha Tianshan , Black T. Andrew , Jassal Rachhpal S. , Nesic Zoran , Helgason Warren D. , Jia Xin , Tian Yun
Published: April 2022

Recent evidence suggests that the relationships between climate and boreal tree growth are generally non‐stationary; however, it remains uncertain whether the relationships between climate and carbon (C) fluxes of boreal forests are stationary or have changed over recent decades. In this study, we used continuous eddy‐covariance and microclimate data over 21 years (1996–2016) from a 100‐year‐old trembling aspen stand in central Saskatchewan, Canada to assess the relationships between climate and ecosystem C and water fluxes. Over the study period, the most striking climatic event was a severe, 3‐year drought (2001–2003). Gross ecosystem production (GEP) showed larger interannual variability than ecosystem respiration (Re) over 1996–2016, but Re was the dominant component contributing to the interannual variation in net ecosystem production (NEP) during post‐drought years. The interannual variations in evapotranspiration (ET) and C fluxes were primarily driven by temperature and secondarily by water availability. Two‐factor linear models combining precipitation and temperature performed well in explaining the interannual variation in C and water fluxes (R2 > .5). The temperature sensitivities of all three C fluxes (NEP, GEP and Re) declined over the study period (p < .05), and, as a result, the phenological controls on annual NEP weakened. The decreasing temperature sensitivity of the C fluxes may reflect changes in forest structure, related to the over‐maturity of the aspen stand at 100 years of age, and exacerbated by high tree mortality following the severe 2001–2003 drought. These results may provide an early warning signal of driver shift or even an abrupt status shift of aspen forest dynamics. They may also imply a universal weakening in the relationship between temperature and GEP as forests become over‐mature, associated with the structural and compositional changes that accompany forest ageing.
Impact of Portuguese propolis on keratinocyte proliferation, migration and ROS protection: Significance for applications in skin products
Authors: Saraiva Nuno , Nicolai Marisa , Martins Marta , Almeida Nuno , Gusmini Matteo , Maurício Elisabete Muchagato , Duarte Maria Paula , Gonçalves Margarida , Baby André Rolim , Fernandes Ana , Rosado Catarina
Published: April 2022

Objective

Propolis has been used since antiquity, but recent reports of its biological properties hint that it could be employed as a topical pharmaceutical and cosmetic ingredient. This work aims to probe the action of Portuguese propolis extracts on skin cells, providing mechanistic insights into its mode of action and preliminarily assessing its applicability as a skin repair ingredient.

Methods

The total phenolic content of propolis extracts was measured by the Folin Ciocalteu method. The cytotoxic effect of propolis extracts in human keratinocytes was determined and non‐cytotoxic concentrations of the extracts were used to study the impact on collective cell migration, cell cycle and intracellular ROS levels.

Results

o significant impact was observed in collective cell migration, but one of the extracts mildly increased G2 phase while reducing the % of sub‐G1 at a non‐cytotoxic concentration. The two extracts with higher phenolic content strongly prevented intracellular cellular ROS accumulation upon exposure to TBHP. Collectively, these results indicate that the putative beneficial effects of propolis extracts in skin repair may not be attributable to induction of collective cell migration but could be partially ascribed to the protection from oxidative stress, which could act in synergy with its well‐known antimicrobial activity.

Conclusion

These data support the applicability of this material in topical and cosmetic formulations and further in vivo assays should be conducted to fully characterize its efficacy and safety.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms as a predisposing factor for the development of apical periodontitis—An umbrella review
Authors: Jakovljevic Aleksandar , Jacimovic Jelena , Georgiou Athina Christina , Nikolic Nadja , Aminoshariae Anita , van der Waal Suzette V. , Nagendrababu Venkateshbabu
Published: April 2022

Background

The interaction between heredity and different environmental factors in the modification of apical periodontitis (AP) susceptibility and prediction of its progression remain poorly elucidated.

Objectives

This umbrella review aimed to (i) analyse the available relevant systematic reviews in an attempt to determine the association between genotype and allelic distribution of different single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the development of AP, (ii) report deficiencies and gaps in knowledge in this area and (iii) present recommendations to conduct future clinical studies and systematic reviews.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using Clarivate Analytics' Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, from inception to October 2021, with no language restrictions, including a grey literature search. Systematic reviews with/without meta‐analysis evaluating genotype and allelic distribution of different SNPs between adult patients with/ without AP were included. All other type of studies were excluded. The methodological quality was assessed using the A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR)‐2 tool. Two independent reviewers were involved in study selection, data extraction and appraising the included reviews; disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer.

Results

The current study includes five systematic reviews. Three reviews performed meta‐analysis. Three reviews were graded by AMSTAR 2 as ‘critically low’ quality, whereas the other two were graded as ‘low’ and ‘moderate’ quality. Two reviews indicated that carriers of specific genotypes and alleles of tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) ‐308 G > A and interleukin 1‐beta (IL‐1β) + 3954 C/T gene polymorphisms are more susceptible to an acute and persistent form of AP. However, high heterogeneity was observed.

Discussion

The statistical heterogeneity within included systematic reviews was a consequence of clinical and methodological diversity amongst primary studies. Although some of the included reviews suggested that carriers of specific genotype and/or allele of TNF‐α −308 G > A and IL‐1β + 3954 C/T SNPs are more susceptible to AP, their conclusions should be interpreted with caution.

Conclusions

No candidate genes could be identified as a definitive genetic risk or protective factor for the development and progression of AP, and further high‐quality genome‐wide association studies are warranted.
Taohong Siwu decoction promotes the process of fracture healing by activating the VEGF-FAK signal pathway and systemically regulating the gut microbiota
Authors: Li Wangyang , Li Tiao , Tang Zhi , Qi Xinyu , Zhou Youliang , Tang Xiaolu , Xu Weijie , Xiong Hui
Published: April 2022

Aims

This study aimed to explore the effect of Taohong Siwu Decoction (THSWD) on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) at the cellular level and the possible mechanism of systemic regulation of gut microbiota on fracture recovery.

Methods and Results

Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) experiments show that THSWD effectively promotes the proliferation of BMSCs. Transwell and wound healing assays show that THSWD effectively promotes the invasion and migration of BMSCs. Alizarin red staining showed that the THSWD model enhanced the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Moreover, the effect of THSWD on BMSCs is time- and concentration-dependent. RT-qPCR and western blot results showed that THSWD treatment up-regulated the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) at mRNA and protein levels, respectively. Haematoxylin–eosin and crocin O-quick green staining showed that after 14 days of THSWD treatment, the area of callus and cartilage regeneration at the fracture site increased significantly in rats with right femoral shaft fractures. Gut microbiota was changed in fractured rats, such as the abundance of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes was increased. THSWD showed positive regulation of both to a certain extent.

Conclusion

THSWD up-regulates VEGF and activates the FAK signalling pathway to enhance the development and differentiation of BMSCs, and systematically regulates the gut microbiota to promote fracture healing.

Significance and Impact of Study

This study provides new insights on the cellular and systemic level to understand the mechanism of THSWD in the treatment of fractures.
Where to next? Experiences of adults with intellectual disability after they complete a university program
Authors: Gobec Charlotte , Rillotta Fiona , Raghavendra Parimala
Published: April 2022

Background

Adults with intellectual disability who attended higher education programs have reported increasing self‐determination, developing social skills and forming relationships. However, there is limited evidence about what adults with intellectual disability do after they complete such programs. This study investigated the experiences of adults with intellectual disability after they completed an inclusive higher education university program in Australia.

Materials & Methods

This qualitative study used a phenomenological approach. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with adults with intellectual disability who had completed the program (N = 6). Data were thematically analysed and interpreted using Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory.

Results

Participants developed lasting connections with mentors and staff but not with peers. Some participants accessed more opportunities, returned to study, increased topic‐specific knowledge, and developed life skills; however, others faced challenges with transition from the program.

Discussion

Findings highlight a need to explore ways to enhance the transition from the program to the wider university environment and/or employment. Suggestions for practice are provided to help inform future development of inclusive higher education programs for adults with intellectual disability.

Conclusion

With appropriate support adults with intellectual disability can experience positive post‐university outcomes and opportunities; however, limited social interaction with informal supports such as peers, challenges the inclusive model.
Effects of appointing new independent directors who are professionally affiliated with their predecessors: Evidence from China
Authors: Li Yanlin , Tian Gary Gang , Wang Xin
Published: April 2022

The roles played by independent directors (IDs) have been extensively documented, but the question of how they are appointed remains insufficiently explored. We found that the likelihood of IDs being appointed was higher when they were professionally affiliated with the departing IDs, and this effect was more pronounced when either the predecessor had a compliant voting record or held more directorships in other firms controlled by insiders in the focal firm. The appointment of affiliated IDs who colluded with insiders through predecessors is positively associated with fewer dissenting votes, more related‐party transactions, and more severe violations. The effect was stronger for firms that had higher concentrated ownership and were located in areas with a weak institutional environment. Our research showed that predecessors with low independence helps establish a reciprocity norm between affiliated successors and insiders, leading to weak board monitoring.
Pseudo‐Fringe sign in frontal fibrosing alopecia‐like cutaneous lupus erythematosus
Authors: Dutra Rezende H. , Trüeb R.M. , Dias M.F.R.G. , Perez Bezerra de Lázaro B. , Iglesias G.A. , Lopes Mattos Dinato S. , Calaça Kabbach Prigenzi K.
Published: April 2022

Background

Marginal alopecia presents itself frequently in dermatological practice. For patients who present peripheral scalp hair loss, cicatricial and non‐cicatricial alopecia should be considered, such as ophiasis, traction alopecia and frontal fibrosing alopecia. In spite of the several types of hair loss that have been described in cutaneous lupus erythematosus, the ‘pseudo‐fringe sign’ had never been observed in such patents.

Objective

This study aims at including the ‘pseudo‐fringe sign’ as another possibility of clinical manifestation in patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus.

Methods

A case report of a 67‐year‐old lady with the diagnosis of lupus erythematosus and peripheral hair loss is shown in this study; the respective differential diagnosis have also been discussed.

Results

The diagnosis of a scarring alopecia caused by lupus erythematosus was established with dermoscopy and histopathology.

Conclusion

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus is another diagnostic possibility for patients who display the ‘pseudo‐fringe sign’.
Diet quality is associated with primary melanoma thickness
Authors: Hughes M.C.B. , Malt M. , Khosrotehrani K. , Smithers B.M. , Green A.C.
Published: April 2022

Background

Patients' diets can influence the outcome of several common cancers, but the effect on melanoma prognosis is unknown.

Objective

To assess the association between quality of melanoma patients' prediagnosis diets and primary tumour thickness, the main prognostic indicator for melanoma.

Methods

We used baseline data from patients newly diagnosed with tumour stage Ib to IV cutaneous melanoma, with completed questionnaires about food intake in the past year and other factors. Diet quality was measured by the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) and melanoma thickness was extracted from histopathology reports. We estimated prevalence ratios (PRadj) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) adjusted for confounding factors using Poisson regression models to assess associations between HEI scores and melanoma thickness.

Results

Of 634 study patients, 238 (38%) had melanomas >2 mm thick at diagnosis. Patients with the highest HEI scores were significantly less likely to be diagnosed with thick melanoma than patients with lowest HEI scores (PRadj 0.93, 95% CI 0.86–0.99) (Ptrend = 0.03). There was no evidence of effect modification by age, sex, previous melanoma or comorbidities.

Conclusions

Melanoma thickness at diagnosis is significantly associated with quality of patients' diets before diagnosis.
Complete blood collection‐based systemic inflammation biomarkers for patients with hidradenitis suppurativa
Authors: Gambichler T. , Hessam S. , Cramer P. , Abu Rached N. , Bechara F.G.
Published: April 2022

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a relatively common chronic inflammatory condition of intertriginous skin. In recent years, the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and platelet/neutrophil ratio (PLR) have been shown to be indicators of systemic inflammation correlating with severity of inflammatory conditions.

Objectives

We aimed to analyse for the first time the systemic inflammation biomarkers also including the pan‐immune‐inflammation value (PIV) and the systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII) in HS patients and controls.

Methods

This study retrospectively investigated clinical and laboratory data of 142 patients with HS. Moreover, a sex‐age‐matched healthy control group was included. The severity of HS was routinely assessed by the Hurley staging, the mHSS and the SAHS score. All inflammation‐based biomarkers were calculated from absolute values of complete blood counts. Receiver‐operating characteristics analyses, including the Youden index, were performed in order to determine optimal cut‐off values and test performance.

Results

Whereas PIV and SII were significantly higher in HS patients, PLR, MLR and PNR were significantly lower in HS patients when compared to controls. Almost all inflammation‐based biomarkers significantly correlated with disease severity. However, PIV was the only test that was significantly associated with HS severity as indicated by a Youden index of 0.56 (associated criterion: 756.4; AUC: 0.79, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Although all systemic inflammation‐based biomarkers investigated are more or less associated with HS severity, the PIV appears to have the best performance in this regard. It may be employed in adjunction with the clinical scores for treatment decision making or clinical trial assessments.
On the definition of stigma
Authors: Andersen Martin M. , Varga Somogy , Folker Anna P.
Published: April 2022

Background

There are thousands of papers about stigma, for instance about stigma's impact on wellbeing, mental or physical health. But the definition of stigma has received only modest attention. In “Conceptualizing stigma” from 2001, Link and Phelan offer a thorough and detailed definition of stigma. They suggest that there are six necessary conditions for stigma, namely labelled differences, stereotypes, separation, status loss and discrimination, power, and emotional reaction. This definition is widely applied in the literature but is left mainly uncriticized.

Method

We submit the Link and Phelan definition of stigma to a systematic conceptual analysis. We first interpret, analyze and reconsider each of the six components in Link and Phelan's definition of stigma, and on the basis of these analyses, we secondly suggest a revised definition of stigma.

Result

The Link and Phelan definition is thorough and detailed, but includes redundant components. These are status loss and discrimination, and emotional reaction.

Conclusion

We suggest that groups, not individuals, are the target of stigma, though it is individuals who may be the victims of it. We suggest a revised definition of stigma that is more simple, precise, and consistent with the empirical literature on stigma; there is stigma if and only if there is labelling, negative stereotyping, linguistic separation, and power asymmetry.