bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multilingual bi‐encoder models for biomedical entity linking
Authors: Guven Zekeriya Anil , Lamurias Andre
Published: June 2023

Natural language processing (NLP) is a field of study that focuses on data analysis on texts with certain methods. NLP includes tasks such as sentiment analysis, spam detection, entity linking, and question answering, to name a few. Entity linking is an NLP task that is used to map mentions specified in the text to the entities of a Knowledge Base. In this study, we analysed the efficacy of bi‐encoder entity linking models for multilingual biomedical texts. Using surface‐based, approximate nearest neighbour search and embedding approaches during the candidate generation phase, accuracy, and recall values were measured on language representation models such as BERT, SapBERT, BioBERT, and RoBERTa according to language and domain. The proposed entity linking framework was analysed on the BC5CDR and Cantemist datasets for English and Spanish, respectively. The framework achieved 76.75% accuracy for the BC5CDR and 60.19% for the Cantemist. In addition, the proposed framework was compared with previous studies. The results highlight the challenges that come with domain‐specific multilingual datasets.
Potential use of bamboo resources in energy value‐added conversion technology and energy systems
Authors: Liang Zhiwei , Neményi András , Kovács Gergő Péter , Gyuricza Csaba
Published: June 2023

Bamboo has been identified as a promising solution to the energy crisis and climate change as a source of biomass energy. Due to its rapid growth and high‐value products, bamboo is considered as a potential source of biomass energy. Bamboo contains a significant amount of cellulose and hemicellulose, which can be converted to sugar constituents, making it an ideal raw material for energy production. This article reviews the different processes of producing bioethanol, biogas, biochar, and bio‐oil from bamboo biomass using techniques such as pyrolysis, hydrothermal liquefaction, fermentation, and anaerobic digestion, and discusses the opportunities and challenges of these conversion technologies. It also reviews the main types and morphological characteristics of energy bamboo species and proposes an evaluation system for energy bamboo species, which optimizes the utilization efficiency of bamboo biomass energy and maximizes benefits by adopting appropriate methods for producing bioenergy based on the characteristics of different bamboo species.
Lipid‐enhanced Oilcane does not impact soil carbon dynamics compared with wild‐type Sugarcane
Authors: Pagliaro Zoe , Burke Jessica , Morrissey Ember , Ridgeway Joanna , Singh Vijay , Altpeter Fredy , Brzostek Edward R.
Published: June 2023

The carbon neutral potential of bioenergy relies in part on the ability of feedstocks to sequester carbon (C) in the soil. Sugarcane is one of the most widely used bioenergy crops, yet there remain unknowns about how it impacts soil C dynamics. In addition, Oilcane, a genetically modified version of Sugarcane has been produced to accumulate more energy‐dense oils and less soluble lignin, which enhances conversion efficiency but may also impact soil C cycling. Thus, our objectives were to examine the impact of Sugarcane litter decomposition on soil C formation and losses and determine if the genetic modifications to produce Oilcane alter these dynamics. To do this, we incubated bagasse (processed stem litter) and leaf litter from Sugarcane and Oilcane in microcosms with forest soil for 11 weeks. We used differences in natural abundance δ13C between C3 forest soil and C4 litter to trace the fate of the litter into respiratory losses as well as stable and unstable soil C pools. Our results show that genetic modifications to Oilcane did not substantially alter soil C dynamics. Sugarcane and Oilcane litter both led to net soil C gains dominated by an accumulation of the added litter as unstable, particulate organic C (POC). Oilcane litter led to small but significantly greater net soil C gains than Sugarcane litter due to greater POC formation, but the formation of stable, mineral associated organic matter (MAOC) did not differ between crop types. Sugarcane and Oilcane had opposing effects on tissue type where Sugarcane bagasse formed more MAOC, while Oilcane leaves preferentially remained as POC which may have important management implications. These results suggest that genetic modifications to Sugarcane will not significantly impact soil C dynamics; however, this may not be universal to other crops particularly if modifications lead to greater differences in litter chemistry.
Effect of WC particle size on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ni–Co coarse grain cemented carbide
Authors: Zhao Chenhao , Xu Shubo , Li Hui , Zheng Junzi , Lu Qingliang , Pan Yuefei
Published: June 2023

The effect of different WC grain size additions on the microstructure and grain distribution of Ni–Co coarse crystalline cemented carbide was studied. And then the effect of grain distribution on the mechanical properties of cemented carbide was discussed. The effect of WC grain size on the grain size and coherency of cemented carbide was analyzed by microstructure. And the distribution of grains in the microstructure was investigated by the truncation method. The addition of fine (1.1–1.4 μm), medium (2.3–2.7 μm), and coarse WC (5.6–6.0 μm) particles can increase the nucleation rate of WC grains in the bonded phase. And the higher grain growth driving force can produce the theoretical limitation of nucleation and inhibit the coarsening of WC grains to a certain extent. The WC grain size has an insignificant effect on the frequency of the occurrence of super‐coarse grains in coarse crystalline cemented carbide. The average grain size and super coarse grains in microstructure gradually decrease, which promotes the improvement of transverse rupture strength. The increase of the adjacent degree and the decrease of the mean free path reduce which is beneficial to the improvement of the corrosion resistance of the alloy. The best overall performance of the alloy is achieved when fine‐grained WC is added.
Diagnostic capacity for cutaneous fungal diseases in the African continent
Authors: Badiane Aida S. , Ramarozatovo Lala S. , Doumbo Safiatou N. , Dorkenoo Ameyo M. , Mandengue Christine , Dunaisk Cara M. , Ball Mamadou , Dia Mariem K. , Ngaya Gilles S. L. , Mahamat Hassane H. , Kalombo Hortense , Bah Alasana , Cá Zimania , Langa Jose C. , Mohamed Ayni M. , Mokomane Margaret , Ahmed Sarah A. , Rapalanoro Rabenja Fahafahantsoa , Hay Roderick J. , Penney Richard O. S. , Orefuwa Emma , Denning David W.
Published: June 2023

Background

Cutaneous fungal infections are very common, especially in poorer communities and with intercurrent HIV infection. Determining the fungal pathogen in skin‐related fungal neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) determines optimal therapy. We undertook a country survey across many African countries to determine the diagnostic capacity for skin fungal diseases.

Methods

A detailed questionnaire was delivered to country contacts to collect data on availability, frequency, and location of testing for key diagnostic procedures and followed up with 2 rounds of validation by video call and by confirmation of individual country data confirmation by email.

Results

Of 47 countries with data, seven (15%) and 21 (45%) do not offer skin biopsy in the public or private sector, respectively, but 22 (46%) countries do it regularly, mostly in university hospitals. Direct microscopy is often performed in 20 of 48 (42%) countries in the public sector and not done in 10 (21%). Fungal cultures are often performed in 21 of 48 (44%) countries in the public sector but not done in nine (20%) or 21 (44%) in either public or private facilities. Histopathological examination of tissue is frequently used in 19 of 48 (40%) countries but not in nine (20%) countries in the public sector. The cost of diagnostics to patients was a major limiting factor in usage.

Conclusion

Major improvements in the availability and use of diagnostic tests for skin, hair, and nail fungal disease are urgently needed across Africa.
Discovering superhard high‐entropy diboride ceramics via a hybrid data‐driven and knowledge‐enabled model
Authors: Lu Jiaqi , Zhang Fengpei , Wang William Yi , Yao Gang , Gao Xingyu , Liu Ya , Zhang Zhi , Wang Jun , Wang Yiguang , Liang Xiubing , Song Haifeng , Li Jinshan , Zhang Pingxiang
Published: June 2023

Materials descriptors with multivariate, multiphase, and multiscale of a complex system have been treated as the remarkable materials genome, addressing the composition–processing–structure–property–performance (CPSPP) relationships during the development of advanced materials. With the aid of high‐performance computations, big data, and artificial intelligence technologies, it is still a challenge to derive an explainable machine learning (ML) model to reveal the underlying CPSPP relationship, especially, under the extreme conditions. This work supports a smart strategy to derive an explainable model of composition–property–performance relationships via a hybrid data‐driven and knowledge‐enabled model, and designing superhard high‐entropy diboride ceramics (HEBs) with a cost‐effective approach. Five dominate features and optimal model were screened out from 149 features and nine algorithms by ML and validated in first‐principles calculations. From Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) and electronic bottom layer, the predicted hardness increases with the improved mean electronegativity and electron work function (EWF) and decreases with growing average d valence electrons of composition. The 14 undeveloped potential superhard HEBs candidates via ML are further validated by first‐principles calculations. Moreover, this EWF‐ML model not only has better capability to distinguish the differences of solutes in same group of periodic table but is also a more effective method for material design than that of valence electron concentration.
Scoping review on communication systems used by adults with severe/profound intellectual disability for functional communication
Authors: Danker Joanne , Dreyfus Shoshana , Strnadová Iva , Pilkinton Mary
Published: June 2023

Background

Adults with severe/profound intellectual disability typically face poor communication outcomes as they are often nonverbal and need their supporters to provide for their communication needs. This review aimed to identify studies focused on the communication resources people with severe/profound intellectual disability use for functional communication, and the enablers and barriers to functional communication.

Methods

Nine databases were systematically reviewed with keywords pertaining to the functional communication of adults with severe/profound intellectual disability. Out of 3427 identified articles, 12 met the inclusion criteria. Hand searches and ancestral searches identified another 4 articles. Out of the 16 articles, two did not meet the quality assessment criteria and were excluded. Thus, 14 articles were included in this review.

Results

The findings revealed that picture exchange communication systems is the most common communication system used to support the development of functional communication. The most common functions enabled by the communication systems were choice‐making and making requests. Several barriers (e.g., individual factors related to adults with severe/profound intellectual disability, others' attitudes, behaviour and knowledge) to and enablers (e.g., accessibility and availability of the communication system, training for those supporting adults with severe/profound intellectual disability) of functional communication were identified.

Conclusions

Removing the barriers and enabling functional communication is essential to developing the functional communication of adults with severe/profound intellectual disability.
Tacit knowledge in dyads of persons with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities and their caregivers: An interpretative literature study
Authors: Hoogsteyns Maartje , Zaal‐Schuller Ilse , Huisman Sylvia , Nieuwenhuijse Appolonia Marga , van Etten‐Jamaludi Faridi , Willems Dick , Kruithof Kasper
Published: June 2023

Background

Caring for persons with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD) demands specific expertise. Tacit knowledge seems to play an important role, but little is known about its nature, including what is necessary for its development and transfer.

Aim

To gain understanding of the nature and development of tacit knowledge between persons with PIMD and their caregivers.

Method

We conducted an interpretative synthesis of literature on tacit knowledge in caregiving dyads with persons with PIMD, persons with dementia or infants. Twelve studies were included.

Results

Tacit knowledge is about caregivers and care‐recipients becoming sensitive and responsive to each other's cues and together crafting care routines. Learning takes place in a constant process of action and response that transforms those involved.

Conclusion

Building tacit knowledge together is necessary for persons with PIMD to learn to recognise and express their needs. Suggestions are made for ways to facilitate its development and transfer.
Genetic parameter estimation for pork production and litter performance traits of Landrace, Large White, and Duroc pigs in Japan
Authors: Ogawa Shinichiro , Takahashi Hiroshi , Satoh Masahiro
Published: June 2023

We estimated genetic parameters for two pork production and six litter performance traits of Landrace, Large White, and Duroc pigs reared in Japan. Pork production traits were average daily gain from birth to end of performance testing and backfat thickness at end of testing (46,042 records for Landrace, 40,467 records for Large White, and 42,920 records for Duroc). Litter performance traits were number born alive, litter size at weaning (LSW), number of piglets dead during suckling (ND), survival rate of piglets during suckling (SV), total piglet weight at weaning (TWW), and average piglet weight at weaning (AWW) (27,410, 26,716, and 12,430 records for Landrace, Large White, and Duroc, respectively). ND was calculated as the difference between LSW and litter size at start of suckling (LSS). SV was calculated as LSW/LSS. AWW was calculated as TWW/LSW. Pedigree data for Landrace, Large White, and Duroc breeds contained 50,193, 44,077, and 45,336 pigs, respectively. Trait heritability was estimated via single‐trait analysis and genetic correlation between two traits was estimated via two‐trait analysis. When considering the linear covariate of LSS in the statistical model for LSW and TWW, for all breeds, the heritability was estimated to be 0.4–0.5 for pork production traits and below 0.2 for litter performance traits. Estimated genetic correlation between average daily gain and backfat thickness was small, ranging from 0.057 to 0.112, and those between pork production traits and litter performance traits were negligible to moderate, ranging from −0.493 to 0.487. A wide range of genetic correlation values among the litter performance traits was estimated, while that between LSW and ND could not be obtained. The results of genetic parameter estimation were affected by whether the linear covariate of LSS was included in the statistical model for LSW and TWW or not. This finding implies the necessity of carefully interpreting the results according to the choice of statistical model. Our results could give fundamental information on simultaneously improving productivity and female reproductivity for pigs.
Scutellarin inhibits the glioma cell proliferation by downregulating BIRC5 to promote cell apoptosis
Authors: Wang Feng , Bao Ma‐ChiCheng , Xu Jing , Shi Lan‐Lan , Niu Rui‐Ze , Wang Ting‐Hua , Liu Jia
Published: June 2023

The expression changes of baculovirus inhibitor of apoptosis repeat‐containing protein5 in brain glioma after administration of Scutellarin was detected. To explore the effort of scutellarin on anti‐glioma by downregulating BIRC5.The effect of scutellarin on tumour growth and animal survival was detected by administering scutellarin to nude mice subcutaneous tumour formation and SD rats in situ tumour formation models. A significantly different gene BIRC5 was found by using the combination of TCGA databases and network pharmacology. And then qPCR was performed to detect the expression of BIRC5 in glioma tissues, cells and normal brain tissues and glial cells. CCK‐8 was used to detect the IC50 of scutellarin on glioma cells. The wound healing assay, flow cytometry and MTT test were used to detect the effect of scutellarin on the apoptosis and proliferation of glioma cells. The expression of BIRC5 in glioma tissues was significantly higher than that in normal brain tissues. Scutellarin can significantly reduce tumour growth and improve animal's survival. After scutellarin was administered, the expression of BIRC5 in U251 cells was significantly reduced. And after same time, apoptosis increased and cell proliferation was inhibited. This original research showed that scutellarin can promote the apoptosis of glioma cells and inhibit the proliferation by downregulating the expression of BIRC5.
Plasticity and genetic effects contribute to different axes of neural divergence in a community of mimetic Heliconius butterflies
Authors: Hebberecht Laura , Wainwright J. Benito , Thompson Charlotte , Kershenbaum Simon , McMillan W. Owen , Montgomery Stephen H.
Published: June 2023

Changes in ecological preference, often driven by spatial and temporal variation in resource distribution, can expose populations to environments with divergent information content. This can lead to adaptive changes in the degree to which individuals invest in sensory systems and downstream processes, to optimize behavioural performance in different contexts. At the same time, environmental conditions can produce plastic responses in nervous system development and maturation, providing an alternative route to integrating neural and ecological variation. Here, we explore how these two processes play out across a community of Heliconius butterflies. Heliconius communities exhibit multiple Mullerian mimicry rings, associated with habitat partitioning across environmental gradients. These environmental differences have previously been linked to heritable divergence in brain morphology in parapatric species pairs. They also exhibit a unique dietary adaptation, known as pollen feeding, that relies heavily on learning foraging routes, or trap-lines, between resources, which implies an important environmental influence on behavioural development. By comparing brain morphology across 133 wild-caught and insectary-reared individuals from seven Heliconius species, we find strong evidence for interspecific variation in patterns of neural investment. These largely fall into two distinct patterns of variation; first, we find consistent patterns of divergence in the size of visual brain components across both wild and insectary-reared individuals, suggesting genetically encoded divergence in the visual pathway. Second, we find interspecific differences in mushroom body size, a central component of learning and memory systems, but only among wild caught individuals. The lack of this effect in common-garden individuals suggests an extensive role for developmental plasticity in interspecific variation in the wild. Finally, we illustrate the impact of relatively small-scale spatial effects on mushroom body plasticity by performing experiments altering the cage size and structure experienced by individual H. hecale. Our data provide a comprehensive survey of community level variation in brain structure, and demonstrate that genetic effects and developmental plasticity contribute to different axes of interspecific neural variation.

Abstract

Comparing brain morphology across a Panamanian community of Heliconius butterflies, we find evidence for interspecific variation along two axes: heritable divergence in the size of visual brain components, and plastic differences in mushroom body size, a central component of learning and memory systems. We illustrate the impact of small-scale spatial effects on mushroom body plasticity.
Social group composition modulates the role of last male sperm precedence in post-copulatory sexual selection
Authors: Morimoto Juliano , McDonald Grant C. , Wigby Stuart
Published: June 2023

In many species, the order in which males mate with a female explains much of the variation in paternity arising from post-copulatory sexual selection. Research in Drosophila suggests that mating order may account for the majority of the variance in male reproductive success. However, the effects of mating order on paternity bias might not be static but could potentially vary with social or environmental factors. To test this idea, we used an existing dataset, collated from an experiment we previously published (Morimoto et al., PLoS One, 11, 2016, e0154468), with the addition of unpublished data from the same experiment. These previous experiments manipulated larval density in Drosophila melanogaster which generated variation in male and female body size, assembled groups of individuals of different sizes, and measured the mating success and paternity share of focal males. The data presented here provides information on each focal male's mating order and the frequency in which focal males remated with same females (‘repetitive matings’). We combined this information with our previously reported focal male reproductive success to partition variance in paternity into male mating order and repetitive matings across groups that differed in the body size composition of males and females. We found, as expected, that male mating order explained a considerable portion of the variance in male paternity. However, we also found that the impact of male mating order on male paternity was influenced by the body size composition of groups. Specifically, males that tended to mate last had a greater paternity advantage, and displayed lower variance, in groups containing a heterogenous mixture male body sizes than in groups with a single male body size. Repetitive mating only had a minor contribution to the variance in male paternity share across all experiments. Overall, our findings contribute to the growing body of research showing that post-copulatory sexual selection is subject to socio-ecological influences.

Abstract

Social group composition affects the role of last male sperm precedence in Drosophila.
Predator response to the coloured eyespots and defensive posture of Colombian four-eyed frogs
Authors: Hernández-Palma Tatiana L. , Rueda-Solano Luis Alberto , Valkonen Janne K. , Rojas Bibiana
Published: June 2023

Deimatic displays, where sudden changes in prey appearance elicit aversive predator reactions, have been suggested to occur in many taxa. These (often only putative) displays frequently involve different components that may also serve antipredator functions via other mechanisms (e.g., mimicry, warning signalling, body inflation). The Colombian four-eyed frog, Pleurodema brachyops, has been suggested to gain protection against predation through putative deimatic displays where they inflate and elevate the posterior part of their body revealing eye-like colour markings. We exposed stationary artificial frogs to wild predators to test whether the two components (eyespot/colour markings, defensive posture) of their putative deimatic display, and their combination, provide protection from predation without the sudden change in appearance. We did not detect any obvious additive effect of defensive posture and eyespots/colour markings on predation risk, but found a marginally significant trend for model frogs in the resting posture to be less attacked when displaying eyespots/colour markings than when they were not, suggesting that the presence of colour markings/eyespots may provide some protection on its own. Additionally, we found that models in a resting posture were overall more frequently attacked on the head than models in a defensive posture, indicating that a defensive posture alone could help redirect predator attacks to non-vital parts of the body. The trends found in our study suggest that the different components of P. brachyops' coloration may serve different functions during a deimatic display, but further research is needed to elucidate the role of each component when accompanied by sudden prey movement.

Abstract

Using stationary artificial frogs exposed to wild predators, we tested whether the eyespot/colour markings and defensive posture present in the putative deimatic display of Colombian four-eyed frogs, and their combination, provide protection from predation without a sudden change in appearance. No obvious additive (or independent) effect of defensive posture and eyespots/colour markings was detected, but model frogs in the defensive posture were overall less frequently attacked on the head, which indicates that a defensive posture alone could help redirect predator attacks to non-vital parts of the body.
New graduate nurses' delivery of patient care: A focused ethnography
Authors: Kaldal Maiken Holm , Feo Rebecca , Conroy Tiffany , Grønkjær Mette , Voldbjerg Siri Lygum
Published: June 2023

Aim

To explore factors influencing newly graduated nurses' delivery of direct care in acute care hospital settings.

Design

Qualitative study using focused ethnography.

Methods

During the period from March to June 2022, a total of ten newly graduated nurses were purposively sampled, and data were collected through 96 h of participant observation as well as ten semi‐structured interviews. This research took place in a large hospital located in Denmark. Data were analysed using LeCompte and Schensul's ethnographic content analysis.

Results

Three main structures were developed from the data: ‘Contrasting Intentions and Actions for care delivery’, ‘Organizational Constraints Block Interpersonal Aspects of Nursing Care’ and ‘Newly Graduated Nurses' Suppressed Need for Support Constitutes Delay in Care Actions’.

Conclusion

Newly graduated nurses were committed to delivering high‐quality care but were aware they sometimes provided compromised care. The paradox between a commitment to care and compromised care delivery was borne out of tensions between newly graduated nurses' professional beliefs and nursing values, a desire to integrate patients' needs and preferences, and organizational constraints on everyday practices where newly graduated nurses often worked alone without the support of a more experienced nurse. Critical reflection on cultural, social and political forces that influence direct care delivery might support newly graduated nurses to deliver direct patient care more intentionally.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Establishment of onboarding programs and other support activities for newly graduated nurses to cope with contrasting intentions and actions that must address organizational constraints is essential. These development programs should include how critical reflection competency is supported to address value inconsistencies and emotional distress to ensure high‐quality patient care.

Reporting Method

The reporting adhered to the COREQ guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

‘No Patient or Public Contribution’.
Identification and validation of shared genes and key pathways in endometriosis and endometriosis‐associated ovarian cancer by weighted gene co‐expression network analysis and machine learning algorithms
Authors: Du Yongming , Hu Yichao , Zhang Fubin , Guan Yutao , Sheng Yuehua
Published: June 2023

Background

Epidemiological studies reported that patients with endometriosis had an increased risk of developing endometriosis‐associated ovarian cancer (EAOC). The present study aimed to identify shared genes and key pathways that commonly interacted between EAOC and endometriosis.

Methods

The expression matrix of ovarian cancer and endometriosis were collected from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to construct co‐expression gene network. Machine learning algorithms were applied to identify characteristic genes. CIBERSORT deconvolution algorithm was used to explore the difference in tumor immune microenvironment. Furthermore, diagnostic nomogram was constructed and evaluated for supporting clinical practicality.

Results

We identified 262 shared genes between EAOC and endometriosis via WGCNA analysis. They were mainly enriched in cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction. After protein–protein interaction network and machine learning algorithms, we recognized two characteristic genes (EDNRA, OCLN) and established a nomogram that presented an outstanding predictive performance. The hub genes demonstrated remarkable associations with immunological functions. Survival analysis indicated that dysregulated expressions of EDNRA and OCLN were closely correlated with prognosis of ovarian cancer patients. gene set enrichment analyses revealed that the two characteristic genes were mainly enriched in the cancer‐ and immune‐related pathways.

Conclusion

Our findings pave the way for further investigation of potential candidate genes and will aid in improving the diagnosis and treatment of EAOC in endometriosis patients. More research is required to determine the exact mechanisms by which these two hub genes affecting the development and progression of EAOC from endometriosis.
Shift‐and‐persist coping and health among rural African American adolescents
Authors: Adesogan Olutosin , Lavner Justin A. , Carter Sierra E. , Beach Steven R. H.
Published: June 2023

This study examines whether shift‐and‐persist coping, a coping strategy defined by accepting challenges and remaining hopeful for the future, is associated with psychosocial and physical health and/or moderates the effects of contextual stress (i.e., racial discrimination, financial strain) on health among African American adolescents living in the rural Southeastern United States. Participants (N = 299, 56% boys, Mage = 12.91) completed measures of shift‐and‐persist coping, contextual stress, and psychosocial and physical health. Shift‐and‐persist coping was generally associated with better health but did not buffer the effects of contextual stress. Results suggest that shift‐and‐persist coping may serve as a source of resilience among African American adolescents living in a context where many experience heightened contextual stress.
System for Observing Play and Leisure Activity in Youth: A Systematic Review of US and Canadian Studies
Authors: Kinder Christopher J. , Nam Kahyun , Kulinna Pamela H. , Woods Amelia M. , McKenzie Thomas L.
Published: June 2023

Background

The System of Observing Play and Leisure Activity in Youth (SOPLAY) has assisted in providing valid and reliable data of youth physical activity and characteristics specific to environmental contexts. The review aimed to examine empirical research that employed the SOPLAY instrument to measure physical activity in leisure‐based activity environments in North American countries.

Methods

The review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses. A systematic search was conducted with an exhaustive process using 10 electronic databases to locate peer‐reviewed studies implementing SOPLAY that were published between 2000 and 2021.

Results

A total of 60 studies were included in the review. Most studies (n = 35) reported physical activity findings related to contextual characteristics measured using SOPLAY. Interestingly, a few of the studies (n = 8) found the provision of equipment and supervision, particularly adult supervision, significantly increased child physical activity observed.

Conclusions

This review provides information relative to the group‐level physical activity observed across multiple contexts (ie, playgrounds, parks, recreation centers) using a validated direct observation instrument.
Endoscopic treatment of acute oropharyngeal stick injuries in dogs: 46 cases (2010‐2020)
Authors: Kilduff‐Taylor A. , Baines S. J.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To review long‐term outcomes of dogs with acute oropharyngeal stick injuries managed with rigid endoscopy at a UK referral centre.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective analysis and follow‐up with referring veterinary surgeons and owners of patients treated between 2010 and 2020. A medical record search was performed and data regarding signalment, clinical presentation, treatment and long‐term outcomes were recorded.

Results

Sixty‐six dogs with acute oropharyngeal stick injury were identified and 46 (70.0%) of these had endoscopy of the wound. The dogs were of various breeds, ages (median=3 years; range 0.6 to 11 years) and weights (median=20.4 kg; range 7.7 to 38.4 kg) and 58.7% of patients were male. The median time from injury to referral was 1 day (range 2 hours to 7 days). Patients were anaesthetised, and injury tracts were explored using 0° and 30° forward‐oblique, 2.7 mm diameter, 18 cm length rigid endoscopes with a corresponding 14.5 French sheath using saline infusion via gravity. All foreign material that could be grasped was removed using forceps. Tracts were flushed with saline and reinspected to confirm removal of all visible foreign material. Out of 40 dogs with long‐term follow‐up, 38 (95.0%) had no major long‐term complications. The remaining two dogs developed cervical abscessation after endoscopy, one of which resolved after repeat endoscopy and the other resolved after open surgery.

Clinical Significance

Long‐term follow‐up of dogs with acute oropharyngeal stick injury managed with rigid endoscopy showed an excellent outcome in 95.0% of cases.
Adrenocortical hypoperfusion detected by contrast‐enhanced ultrasound in a dog with trilostane‐induced hypoadrenocorticism
Authors: Nagata N. , Aoshima K. , Nakamura K. , Takiguchi M.
Published: June 2023

A 12‐year‐old neutered male Chihuahua dog was diagnosed with pituitary‐dependent hypercortisolism and treated with trilostane. Eighty‐nine days later, the dog showed lethargy accompanied by hyponatraemia and hyperkalaemia. Hypoadrenocorticism due to trilostane was suspected, but the result of the adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test was not conclusive. Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound showed loss of adrenocortical blood flow in both adrenal glands, indicating adrenocortical hypoperfusion and isolated hypoadrenocorticism. Treatment with fludrocortisone acetate improved the condition and electrolyte abnormalities. Thirteen months later, the dog showed alopecia, and an adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test revealed increased cortisol concentration, indicating hypercortisolism recurrence. The dog died due to progressive deterioration 22 months after the initial presentation. Post‐mortem examination revealed focally extensive necrosis with marked calcification in the parenchyma of the adrenal glands and regeneration of the cells in the zona fasciculata with severe fibrosis. Adrenocortical hypoperfusion detected by contrast‐enhanced ultrasound can support the diagnosis of adrenal necrosis and hypoadrenocorticism.
The importance of cryptic diversity in the conservation of wide‐ranging species: The red‐footed tortoise Chelonoidis carbonarius in Colombia
Authors: Gallego‐García Natalia , Vargas‐Ramírez Mario , Shaffer H. Bradley
Published: June 2023

Wide‐ranging species are seldom considered conservation priorities, yet they have the potential to harbour genetically deeply differentiated units across environments or ecological barriers, including some that warrant taxonomic recognition. Documenting such cryptic genetic diversity is especially important for wide‐ranging species that are in decline, as they may comprise a set of even more endangered lineages or species with small distributions. However, studies of wide‐ranging species, particularly when they cross political borders, are extremely challenging. One approach to overcoming these challenges is to conduct detailed local analyses in combination with less detailed, range‐wide studies. We used this approach with the red‐footed tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonarius), a threatened species likely to contain cryptic diversity given its vast range and the distinctive ecoregions that it inhabits. Previous single‐gene molecular studies indicated the presence of at least five lineages, two of which occur in different ecoregions separated by the Andes within Colombia. We used a comprehensive genomic analysis to test the hypothesis of cryptic diversity within the single jurisdiction of Colombia. We used a combination of restriction‐site‐associated DNA sequencing and environmental niche modelling to provide three independent lines of evidence that support the presence of important cryptic diversity that may deserve taxonomic recognition: allopatric reproductive isolation, local adaptation and ecological divergence. We also provide a fine‐scale genetic map with the distribution of conservation units in Colombia. As we complete ongoing range‐wide analyses and make taxonomic adjustments, we recommend that the two lineages in Colombia be treated as separate units for conservation purposes.
The regulation of bacterial two‐partner secretion systems
Authors: Trouillon Julian , Attrée Ina , Elsen Sylvie
Published: June 2023

Two‐partner secretion (TPS) systems, also known as Type Vb secretion systems, allow the translocation of effector proteins across the outer membrane of Gram‐negative bacteria. By secreting different classes of effectors, including cytolysins and adhesins, TPS systems play important roles in bacterial pathogenesis and host interactions. Here, we review the current knowledge on TPS systems regulation and highlight specific and common regulatory mechanisms across TPS functional classes. We discuss in detail the specific regulatory networks identified in various bacterial species and emphasize the importance of understanding the context‐dependent regulation of TPS systems. Several regulatory cues reflecting host environment during infection, such as temperature and iron availability, are common determinants of expression for TPS systems, even across relatively distant species. These common regulatory pathways often affect TPS systems across subfamilies with different effector functions, representing conserved global infection‐related regulatory mechanisms.
Organisational inhibition and promotion of flexible working in digitalised work environments
Authors: Abendroth Anja‐Kristin , Reimann Mareike
Published: June 2023

Work‐related use of digital information and communication technology (ICT) is not restricted to specific working sites and times. For employees, this can involve opportunities for flexible working, that is, having control over when and where to work. Applying an organisational comparative perspective, we examined whether adherence to the ideal worker norm inhibits and adherence to family‐friendliness promotes flexible working as a consequence of ICT use. Linked employer–employee survey data from large German work organisations revealed that employees worked more flexibly in time and place due to work‐related ICT use when supervisory work‐life support was common. Mixed evidence is provided for the prevalence of ideal worker norm expectations. We conclude that work‐life support in the organisation is a required complementary practice of flexible working for employees, promoting its dissemination.
Impact of local human microbiota on the allergic diseases: Organ–organ interaction
Authors: Alashkar Alhamwe Bilal , López Juan‐Felipe , Zhernov Yury , von Strandmann Elke Pogge , Karaulov Alexander , Kolahian Saeed , Geßner Reinhard , Renz Harald
Published: June 2023

The homogeneous impact of local dysbiosis on the development of allergic diseases in the same organ has been thoroughly studied. However, much less is known about the heterogeneous influence of dysbiosis within one organ on allergic diseases in other organs. A comprehensive analysis of the current scientific literature revealed that most of the relevant publications focus on only three organs: gut, airways, and skin. Moreover, the interactions appear to be mainly unidirectional, that is, dysbiotic conditions of the gut being associated with allergic diseases of the airways and the skin. Similar to homogeneous interactions, early life appears to be not only a crucial period for the formation of the microbiota in one organ but also for the later development of allergic diseases in other organs. In particular, we were able to identify a number of specific bacterial and fungal species/genera in the intestine that were repeatedly associated in the literature with either increased or decreased allergic diseases of the skin, like atopic dermatitis, or the airways, like allergic rhinitis and asthma. The reported studies indicate that in addition to the composition of the microbiome, also the relative abundance of certain microbial species and the overall diversity are associated with allergic diseases of the corresponding organs. As anticipated for human association studies, the underlying mechanisms of the organ–organ crosstalk could not be clearly resolved yet. Thus, further work, in particular experimental animal studies are required to elucidate the mechanisms linking dysbiotic conditions of one organ to allergic diseases in other organs.
SLG2 specifically regulates grain width through WOX11‐mediated cell expansion control in rice
Authors: Xiong Dunpin , Wang Ruci , Wang Yueming , Li Yi , Sun Ge , Yao Shanguo
Published: June 2023

Grain size is specified by three dimensions of length, width and thickness, and slender grain is a desirable quality trait in rice. Up to now, many grain size regulators have been identified. However, most of these molecules show influence on multi‐dimensions of grain development, and only a few of them function specifically in grain width, a key factor determining grain yield and appearance quality. In this study, we identify the SLG2 (SLENDER GUY2) gene that specifically regulates grain width by affecting cell expansion in the spikelet hulls. SLG2 encodes a WD40 domain containing protein, and our biochemical analyses show that SLG2 acts as a transcription activator of its interacting WOX family protein WOX11. We demonstrate that the SLG2‐associated WOX11 binds directly to the promoter of OsEXPB7, one of the downstream cell expansion genes. We show that knockout of WOX11 results in plants with a slender grain phenotype similar to the slg2 mutant. We also present that finer grains with different widths could be produced by combining SLG2 with the grain width regulator GW8. Collectively, we uncover the crucial role of SLG2 in grain width control, and provide a promising route to design rice plants with better grain shape and quality.
Resilience communication mitigates the negative relational effects of topic avoidance: Evidence from parental caregiving and COVID‐19 pandemic contexts
Authors: Lillie Helen M. , Venetis Maria K. , Chernichky‐Karcher Skye
Published: June 2023

Communicating about hardships with close others can be challenging, leading to avoidance of hardship‐related topics. Although typically considered relationally damaging, topic avoidance could serve as a beneficial or neutral strategy when paired with relationally affirming communication. The current research investigates if the resilience communication processes outlined in the communication theory of resilience mitigate the negative relational effects of topic avoidance. Hypotheses are tested in two different contexts: sibling communication during parental caregiving (N = 207) and spousal communication in the first months of the COVID‐19 pandemic (N = 598). The processes of crafting normalcy, communication networks, and productive action were beneficial across contexts. When participants reported higher engagement in these processes, topic avoidance was not significantly related to relationship satisfaction. At lower engagement levels, topic avoidance was negatively related to relationship satisfaction. Nuance between contexts existed. For example, humor moderated the effect of sibling caregiving topic avoidance but not spousal COVID‐19 topic avoidance.
Methylome, transcriptome, and phenotype changes induced by temperature conditions experienced during sexual reproduction in Fragaria vesca
Authors: Zhang Yupeng , Toivainen Tuomas , Mackenzie Kathryn , Yakovlev Igor , Krokene Paal , Hytönen Timo , Grini Paul E. , Fossdal Carl Gunnar
Published: June 2023

Temperature conditions experienced during embryogenesis and seed development may induce epigenetic changes that increase phenotypic variation in plants. Here we investigate if embryogenesis and seed development at two different temperatures (28 vs. 18°C) result in lasting phenotypic effects and DNA methylation changes in woodland strawberry (Fragaria vesca). Using five European ecotypes from Spain (ES12), Iceland (ICE2), Italy (IT4), and Norway (NOR2 and NOR29), we found statistically significant differences between plants from seeds produced at 18 or 28°C in three of four phenotypic features investigated under common garden conditions. This indicates the establishment of a temperature‐induced epigenetic memory‐like response during embryogenesis and seed development. The memory effect was significant in two ecotypes: in NOR2 flowering time, number of growth points and petiole length were affected, and in ES12 number of growth points was affected. This indicates that genetic differences between ecotypes in their epigenetic machinery, or other allelic differences, impact this type of plasticity. We observed statistically significant differences between ecotypes in DNA methylation marks in repetitive elements, pseudogenes, and genic elements. Leaf transcriptomes were also affected by embryonic temperature in an ecotype‐specific manner. Although we observed significant and lasting phenotypic change in at least some ecotypes, there was considerable variation in DNA methylation between individual plants within each temperature treatment. This within‐treatment variability in DNA methylation marks in F. vesca progeny may partly be a result of allelic redistribution from recombination during meiosis and subsequent epigenetic reprogramming during embryogenesis.
Association of Down syndrome with periodontal diseases: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rondón‐Avalo Sara , Rodríguez‐Medina Carolina , Botero Javier Enrique
Published: June 2023

Background

Down syndrome (DS) is distinguished by cognitive disability, a concave profile, and systemic complications. Oral diseases have been reported to be common in DS patients.

Objective

To investigate the association between DS and periodontal diseases.

Methods

Two independent reviewers searched six bibliographic databases up to January 2023 and used additional search methods to identify published studies on gingivitis or periodontitis in people with and without DS. Meta‐analysis, risk of bias, sensibility analysis, publication bias, and evidence grading were all carried out.

Results

Twenty‐six studies were included for analysis. There was a tendency for increased plaque accumulation, periodontal probing, periodontal attachment level, bleeding on probing and indices in DS individuals. Meta‐analysis of 11 studies showed a significant association between DS and periodontitis (OR 3.93; 95% CI 1.81–8.53). Probing depth was significantly high in individuals with DS as compared to controls (mean difference 0.40 mm; 95% CI 0.09–0.70). Gingivitis was significantly associated (OR 1.93; 95% CI 1.09–3.41) with DS in four studies. The evidence was classified as ‘moderate certainty’.

Conclusion

Medium/low‐quality studies demonstrate that Down syndrome is strongly associated with periodontitis and moderately associated with gingivitis.