bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection ofSalmonellaTyphi bacteriophages in surface waters as a scalable approach to environmental surveillance
Authors: Shrestha Sneha , Da Silva Kesia Esther , Shakya Jivan , Yu Alexander T. , Katuwal Nishan , Shrestha Rajeev , Shakya Mudita , Shahi Sabin Bikram , Naga Shiva Ram , LeBoa Christopher , Aiemjoy Kristen , Bogoch Isaac I. , Saha Senjuti , Tamrakar Dipesh , Andrews Jason R.
Published: February 2023

Environmental surveillance, using detection ofSalmonellaTyphi DNA, has emerged as a potentially useful tool to identify typhoid-endemic settings; however, it is relatively costly and requires molecular diagnostic capacity. We sought to determine whetherS. Typhi bacteriophages are abundant in water sources in a typhoid-endemic setting, using low-cost assays. We collected drinking and surface water samples from urban, peri-urban and rural areas in 4 regions of Nepal. We performed a double agar overlay withS. Typhi to assess the presence of bacteriophages. We isolated and tested phages against multiple strains to assess their host range. We performed whole genome sequencing of isolated phages, and generated phylogenies using conserved genes.S. Typhi-specific bacteriophages were detected in 54.9% (198/361) of river water samples and 6.3% (1/16) drinking water samples from the Kathmandu Valley and Kavrepalanchok. Water samples collected within or downstream of population-dense areas were more likely to be positive (72.6%, 193/266) than those collected upstream from population centers (5.3%, 5/95) (p=0.005). In urban Biratnagar and rural Dolakha, where typhoid incidence is low, only 6.7% (1/15, Biratnagar) and 0% (0/16, Dolakha) samples contained phages. AllS. Typhi phages were unable to infect otherSalmonellaand non-Salmonellastrains, nor a Vi-knockoutS. Typhi strain. Representative strains fromS. Typhi lineages were variably susceptible to the isolated phages. Phylogenetic analysis showed thatS. Typhi phages belonged to two different viral families (AutographiviridaeandSiphoviridae) and clustered in three distinct groups.S. Typhi bacteriophages were highly abundant in surface waters of typhoid-endemic communities but rarely detected in low typhoid burden communities. Bacteriophages recovered were specific forS. Typhi and required Vi polysaccharide for infection. Screening small volumes of water with simple, low-cost plaque assays enables detection ofS. Typhi phages and should be further evaluated as a scalable tool for typhoid environmental surveillance.

Highlights

Typhoid phages are detectable in surface water using simple assays, in communities with high typhoid burden.

Bacteriophages are highly specific forS. Typhi and required Vi polysaccharide for infection.

S. Typhi phages have a broad lytic activity against theS. Typhi strains circulating in Nepal.

Phage plaque assay can be used as a low-cost tool to identify communities where typhoid is endemic.

The high abundance of phages in river water suggest that this could be an alternative to molecular methods for environmental surveillance for typhoid.
Computational modeling of seizure onset patterns to underpin their underlying mechanisms
Authors: Shokooh Leila Abrishami , Lesage Frédéric , Nguyen Dang Khoa
Published: February 2023

In the study of epilepsy, it is of crucial importance to understand the transition from interictal into ictal activities (ictogenesis). Different mechanisms have been suggested for the generation of ictal activity; yet, it remains unclear whether different physiological mechanisms underly different seizure onset patterns. Herein, by implementing a computational model that takes into account some of the most relevant physiological events (e.g., depolarization block, collapse, and recovery of inhibitory activities) and different scenarios of imbalanced excitatory-inhibitory activities, we explored if seizures with different onset patterns stem from different underlying mechanisms. Our model revealed that depending on the excitation level, seizures could be generated due to both enhancement and collapse of inhibition for specific range of parameters. Successfully reproducing some of the commonly observed seizure onset patterns, our findings indicated that different onset patterns can arise from different underlying mechanisms.

Significance Statement

Various seizure onset patterns have been reported; however, it yet remains unknown whether seizures with distinct onset patterns originate from different underlying mechanisms. The common belief on seizure generation focuses on the imbalance between synaptic excitation and inhibition which has led to the identification of distinct and, in some cases, even contradictory mechanisms for seizure initiation. In this study, by incorporating some of these various physiological mechanisms in a unified framework, we reproduced some commonly observed seizure onset patterns. Our results suggest the existence of different mechanisms responsible for the generation of seizures with distinct onset patterns which can enhance our understanding of seizure generation mechanisms with significant implications on developing therapeutic measures in seizure control.
Divergent selection in Mediterranean pine stands on local spatial scales
Authors: Budde Katharina B. , Rellstab Christian , Heuertz Myriam , Gugerli Felix , Verdú Miguel , Pausas Juli G. , González-Martínez Santiago C.
Published: February 2023

The effects of selection on an organism’s genome are hard to detect on small spatial scales, as gene flow can erase signatures of local adaptation. Most genome scans to detect signatures of environmental selection are performed on large spatial scales, however divergent selection on the local scale (e.g. between contrasting soil conditions) has also been demonstrated, in particular for herbaceous plants. Here we hypothesize that in topographically complex landscapes, microenvironment variability is strong enough to leave a selective footprint in genomes of long-lived organisms. To test this, we investigated paired south- versus north-facingPinus pinasterstands in a Mediterranean mountain area. While north-facing (mesic) stands experience less radiation, south facing (xeric) stands represent especially harsh conditions, particularly during the dry summer season. Outlier detection revealed five putatively adaptive loci out of 4,034, two of which encoded non-synonymous substitutions. Additionally, one locus showed consistent allele frequency differences in all three stand pairs indicating divergent selection despite high gene flow on the local scale. Functional annotation of these candidate genes revealed biological functions related to abiotic stress response in other species. Our study highlights how divergent selection shapes the functional genetic variation within populations of long-lived forest trees on local spatial scales.
Recognition of commensal bacterial peptidoglycans definesDrosophilagut homeostasis and lifespan
Authors: Onuma Taro , Yamauchi Toshitaka , Kosakamoto Hina , Kadoguchi Hibiki , Kuraishi Takayuki , Murakami Takumi , Mori Hiroshi , Miura Masayuki , Obata Fumiaki
Published: February 2023

Commensal microbes in animals have a profound impact on tissue homeostasis, stress resistance, and ageing. We previously showed inDrosophila melanogasterthatAcetobacter persiciis a member of the gut microbiota that promotes ageing and shortens fly lifespan. However, the molecular mechanism by which this specific bacterial species changes lifespan and physiology remains unclear. The difficulty in studying longevity using gnotobiotic flies is the high risk of contamination during ageing. To overcome this technical challenge, we used a bacteria-conditioned diet enriched with bacterial products and cell wall components. Here, we demonstrate that anA. persici-conditioned diet shortens lifespan and increases intestinal stem cell (ISC) proliferation. Feeding adult flies a diet conditioned withA. persici, but not withLactiplantibacillus plantarum, can decrease lifespan but increase resistance to paraquat or oral infection ofPseudomonas entomophila, indicating that the bacterium alters the trade-off between lifespan and host defence. A transcriptomic analysis using fly intestine revealed thatA. persicipreferably induces antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), whileL. plantarumupregulates amidase peptidoglycan recognition proteins (PGRPs). The specific induction of these Imd target genes by peptidoglycans from two bacterial species is due to the stimulation of the receptor PGRP-LC in the anterior midgut for AMPs or PGRP-LE from the posterior midgut for amidase PGRPs. Heat-killedA. persicialso shortens lifespan and increases ISC proliferation via PGRP-LC, but it is not sufficient to alter the stress resistance. Our study emphasizes the significance of peptidoglycan specificity in determining the gut bacterial impact on healthspan. It also unveils the postbiotic effect of specific gut bacterial species, which turns flies into a “live fast, die young” lifestyle.

Author Summary

Microbiota plays a vital role in our health, but it can also have a negative impact on the lifespan of certain model organisms, such as the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Despite its impact, the molecular mechanism behind how gut bacteria limits host lifespan remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the mechanism that one specific species of microbiota shortens lifespan and disrupts gut homeostasis of the aged flies, using a “fermented” fly diet. We found that the specific effects of this bacterium on fly healthspan were due to its capability of stimulating a specific receptor in the gut that recognizes peptidoglycan, a component of bacterial cell wall. Paradoxically, the same bacterium also increases stress resistance and defence against oral infection of a pathogen. Our study provides insight into the mechanisms underlying how certain members of the microbiota can lead to a “life fast, die young” lifestyle.
The tetrapeptide sequence of IL-1β regulates its recruitment and activation by inflammatory caspases
Authors: Exconde Patrick M. , Hernandez-Chavez Claudia , Bray Mark B. , Lopez Jan L. , Srivastava Tamanna , Egan Marisa S. , Zhang Jenna , Shin Sunny , Discher Bohdana M. , Taabazuing Cornelius Y.
Published: February 2023

The mammalian innate immune system uses germline-encoded cytosolic pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) to detect intracellular danger signals. At least six of these PRRs are known to form multiprotein complexes called inflammasomes which activate cysteine proteases known as caspases. Canonical inflammasomes recruit and activate caspase-1 (CASP1), which in turn cleaves and activates inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-18, as well as the pore forming protein, gasdermin D (GSDMD), to induce pyroptotic cell death. In contrast, non-canonical inflammasomes, caspases-4/-5 (CASP4/5) in humans and caspase-11 (CASP11) in mice, are activated by intracellular LPS to cleave GSDMD, but their role in direct processing of inflammatory cytokines has not been established. Here we show that active CASP4/5 directly cleave IL-18 to generate the active species. Surprisingly, we also discovered that CASP4/5/11 cleave IL-1β at D27 to generate a 27 kDa fragment that is predicted to be inactive and cannot signal to the IL-1 receptor. Mechanistically, we discovered that the sequence identity of the P4-P1 tetrapeptide sequence adjacent to the caspase cleavage site (D116) regulates the recruitment and processing of IL-1β by inflammatory caspases to generate the bioactive species. Thus, we have identified new substrates of the non-canonical inflammasomes and reveal key mechanistic details regulating inflammation.
Crystal structures of two 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalenes obtained during efforts towards the total synthesis of elisabethin A
Authors: Kaiser Maximilian , Weil Matthias , Gärtner Peter , Enev Valentin
Published: February 2023

The two substituted 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalenes, methyl (R)-3-{(1R,4S)-6-methoxy-4,7-dimethyl-5,8-bis[(triisopropylsilyl)oxy]-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-1-yl}butanoate, C36H66O5Si2, (2), and methyl (E)-3-{(1R,4S)-8-hydroxy-6-methoxy-4,7-dimethyl-5-[(triisopropylsilyl)oxy]-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-1-yl}acrylate, C26H42O5Si, (8), crystallize in the Sohncke space groups P212121 and P21, respectively, with the absolute structure determined on the basis of anomalous dispersion effects. The configurations of the stereo centres in the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene moiety of (2) and (8) are the same, and the conformation of the non-aromatic part of the ring system is nearly identical. In the crystal of (2), weak non-classical C—H...O interactions consolidate the packing, whereas in (8), intermolecular O—H...O hydrogen-bonding interactions of medium-to-weak strength direct the molecules into Z-shaped strands extending parallel to [010].
Soil microbial relative resource limitation exhibited contrasting seasonal patterns along an elevational gradient in Yulong Snow Mountain
Authors: Zhang Dandan , Wu Baoyun , Li Jinsheng , Cheng Xiaoli
Published: February 2023

Microbial relative resource limitations represented by enzyme stoichiometry reflect the relationship between microbial nutrient requirements and nutrient status in soil, but the issue on whether alterations in environments along elevational gradients affect the magnitude of microbial relative resource limitations remains unresolved.

Here, we examined seasonal patterns in microbial relative carbon (C) and phosphorus (P) limitations indicated by vector lengths and angles using relative proportional enzymatic activities and key controlling factors along an elevational gradient in the Yulong Snow Mountain. We also analysed the relationships between microbial metabolic processes and microclimates (i.e. soil moisture and temperature), soil properties (i.e. pH and soil texture), and microbial attributes (i.e. microbial biomass and fungal: bacterial ratio).

We found that soil microbial relative C limitation decreased with increasing elevations, with lower levels observed in the dry season than in the wet season. In contrast, soil microbial relative P limitation varied significantly with elevations, with linearly increasing trends in wet seasons but unimodal trends in dry seasons. Meanwhile, we found higher relative C limitation in the coniferous forest but higher relative P limitation in the broad‐leaved forest. Notably, soil microbial relative C limitation was primarily affected by the soil microenvironment (i.e. soil temperature) and substrate quantity (i.e. the ratio of soil dissolved organic C to available P), whereas soil microbial relative P limitation could be alleviated by increasing microbial relative C limitation combined with increasing soil pH. Additionally, the significant linear pattern of the C use efficacy with elevations was only observed in the wet seasons, which was directly influenced by soil microclimates and microbial relative C limitation.

Overall, our results provided important information for better understanding the essential role of microbial processes in the regulation of C and P cycling in vulnerable subtropical mountain ecosystems.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Donkey trade: Challenges to sustaining mutualism in rural Pakistan
Authors: Kavesh Muhammad A.
Published: February 2023

The Pakistani government's decision to export thousands of donkeys to China to manufacture Chinese traditional medicine (ejiao) threatens the interdependence between donkeys and their keepers. This article seeks to unravel the mutualism between humans and donkeys in rural South Punjab and examines how forces of globalism and capitalism commodify the equine through parasitic disregard.
Development of effluent‐free dry‐peeling method for shallots (Allium cepa L. aggregatum): Spectral characterization of mid and long infrared peak wavelengths for maximizing the peeling performance
Authors: Deepika Sakthivel , Sutar Parag Prakash
Published: February 2023

Different wavelength emitting infrared (IR) lamps (transparent quartz tungsten (TQT), ruby‐coated quartz tungsten (RCQT), and ceramic) were used for dry peeling and evaluating the spectral characteristics of emitted radiations. The maximum temperatures for ceramic, RCQT, and TQT were 560, 662, and 861°C, respectively. The peak wavelength determined by Wien's law was between 3.37 and 21.47 µm. Comparatively, longer wavelength was emitted by ceramic lamp. The spectral emissive power determined by Stefan Boltzmann's law was 1.14–37.49 kW m−2 using the IR emitters at different power levels. The radiant efficiency was higher for the ceramic lamp. The peak wavelength and emissive power had a major influence on the peeling performance and quality during IR peeling. The optimized parameters for IR dry peeling of shallots are 60 mm distance between lamp and product, 59.74% IR power level, 15 min of heating time using the ceramic (peak wavelength 8.16 µm) lamp.

Practical Application: Infrared dry peeling of shallots is a sustainable alternative to traditional peeling methods that leaves adverse environmental footprints. Spectral characteristics of the infrared lamp can be used to determine the suitable emitter for the dry‐peeling operation. It is necessary to check the wavelength emitted by the source for designing the IR system based on the food product and application. This study will be helpful in food processing industries to use an effective infrared lamp that can efficiently peel the agricultural product and sustainably maintain quality.
Thalassaemia—A global view
Authors: Hokland Peter , Daar Shahina , Khair Wael , Sheth Sujit , Taher Ali T. , Torti Lorenza , Hantaweepant Chattree , Rund Deborah
Published: February 2023

The thalassaemias are a group of genetic disorders of haemoglobin which are endemic in the tropics but are now found worldwide due to migration. Basic standard of care therapy includes regular transfusions to maintain a haemoglobin level of around 10 g/dL, together with iron chelation therapy to prevent iron overload. Novel therapies, bone marrow transplantation, and gene therapy are treatment options that are unavailable in many countries with stressed economies. This Wider Perspectives article presents the strategies for management of an adolescent refugee patient with beta thalassaemia, as it would be performed by expert haematologists in six countries: Italy, Lebanon, Oman, the Sudan, Thailand and the United States. The experienced clinicians in each country have adapted their practice according to the resources available, which vary greatly. Even in the current modern era, providing adequate transfusions and chelation is problematic in many countries. On the other hand, ensuring adherence to therapy, particularly during adolescence, is a similar challenge seen in all countries. The concluding section highlights the disparities in available therapies and puts the role of novel therapies into a societal context.
LUNAR: a randomized Phase 2 study of 177Lutetium‐PSMA Neoadjuvant to Ablative Radiotherapy for Oligorecurrent Prostate Cancer (clinical trial protocol)
Authors: Ma Ting Martin , Czernin Johannes , Felix Carol , Alano Rejah , Wilhalme Holly , Valle Luca , Steinberg Michael L. , Dahlbom Magnus , Reiter Robert E. , Rettig Matthew B. , Cao Minsong , Calais Jeremie , Kishan Amar U.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To assess the efficacy of 177Lu‐PNT2002, a novel radiolabelled small molecule that binds with high affinity to prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA), in combination with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) to all sites of metastasis, vs SBRT alone, in men with oligorecurrent metastatic hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC).

Patients and Methods

The 177Lutetium‐PSMA Neoadjuvant to Ablative Radiotherapy for Oligorecurrent Prostate Cancer (LUNAR) trial is an open‐label, randomized, stratified, two‐arm, single‐centre, Phase 2 trial to compare the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant 177Lu‐PNT2002 plus SBRT vs SBRT alone in men with oligorecurrent mHSPC. Key eligibility criteria include one to five lesions identified on a PSMA positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) scan centrally reviewed by a board‐certified nuclear medicine physician. Key exclusion criteria include castrate‐resistant disease, de novo oligometastatic disease and receipt of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) within 6 months of trial enrolment. The trial aims to enrol 100 patients who will be centrally randomized to one of the two treatment arms, in a 1:1 ratio. Patients in the control arm receive SBRT to all sites of disease. Patients in the experimental arm receive two cycles of neoadjuvant 177Lu‐PNT2002 (6.8 GBq) 6–8 weeks apart, followed by an interval PSMA PET/CT in 4–6 weeks and dose‐adapted SBRT to all sites of disease 1–2 weeks later. The primary endpoint is progression‐free survival. Secondary endpoints are radiographic and prostate‐specific antigen‐based progression, acute and late physician‐scored toxicity, patient‐reported quality of life, ADT‐free survival, time to progression, overall survival, locoregional control, and duration of response. Enrolment in the study commenced in September 2022.

Results and Conclusions

The addition of 177Lu‐PNT2002 to metastasis‐directed therapy alone may potentially further forestall disease progression. The results of this Phase 2 trial will determine, for the first time in a randomized fashion, the added benefit of 177Lu‐PNT2002 to SBRT in patients with oligorecurrent mHSPC.
Safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of fluoropezil (DC20), a novel acetylcholinesterase inhibitor: A phase I study in healthy young and elderly Chinese subjects
Authors: Qian Hongjie , Yu Chengyin , Zhu Huijuan , Ding Qichen , Cai Yuting , Jing Jiao , Xu Xin , Guo Runcong , Zhang Haiyan , Liu Hong , Chen Xiaoyan , Liu Yun
Published: February 2023

The present study evaluated the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of fluoropezil (DC20), a novel acetylcholinesterase inhibitor under development for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in otherwise healthy young and elderly Chinese subjects. The study of young subjects included the multiple ascending dose (MAD) arm (2 and 6 mg, N = 24) and the food effect arm (4 mg, N = 12) and was followed by the study of elderly subjects who were given (2 and 4 mg, N = 11). The noncompartmental analysis method was used to determine the pharmacokinetic parameters. The pharmacokinetics of fed versus fasted dose administration in the same subjects was assessed by 90% confidence interval. In the MAD arm, the accumulation ratios of DC20 in vivo were 2.29 and 2.15, respectively. In the food effect arm, compared with fasting administration, an area under the concentration‐time curve from zero to t after a standard and high‐fat diet orally administered slightly increased by about 19% and 29%, and the time to maximum concentration (Tmax) was delayed by around 1 h. For elderly study subjects, Tmax was 1.5 and 1.25 h, and terminal half‐life (t1/2) was 77.1 and 74.2 h, respectively. There were no serious adverse events (AEs), whereas gastrointestinal reactions were the most common AEs associated with the study drug. We predicted the safety risks of DC20 in the clinical treatment of AD, which were well‐tolerated by the healthy young and elderly subjects. The elimination of DC20 from the body was slower in elderly subjects than in young subjects. This study was approved by the Center for Drug Evaluation, National Medical Products Administration (CTR20181428, CTR20190664, CTR20191878, and CTR20192724).
Influence of habitat on abundance, size and growth rate of pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) 0+ juveniles in a canyon‐shaped reservoir
Authors: Blabolil Petr , Peterka Jiří , Čech Martin , Jůza Tomáš
Published: February 2023

Abundance, size (standard length, LS) and growth rate of early pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) 0+ juveniles were monitored in the epipelagic and bathypelagic layers near the dam, and in the middle and upper sections at the canyon‐shaped Římov Reservoir (Czech Republic) during the day on 26 and 29 May, and during the night on 5 and 11 June in 2008. The greatest abundance of 0+ fish was observed in the middle section of the reservoir and their LS increased upstream from the dam towards the reservoir's tributary. Moreover, larger and older pikeperch 0+ juveniles migrated to the bathypelagic layer during the day. The epilimnetic temperature and productivity (expressed as chlorophyll‐a concentration) gradients were suggested as the main drivers affecting the distribution and growth of the fish.
The effects of delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol administration in the regulation of female rat sociosexual behaviour
Authors: Costa Flávia M. , Fonseca Bruno M. , Sá Susana I.
Published: February 2023

By targeting the endocannabinoid system, delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) modulates female motivated behaviours, influenced by sex hormones. Both medial preoptic nucleus (MPN) and ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMN) are involved in the modulation of female sexual responses. The first triggers proceptivity, whereas the ventrolateral division of the latter (VMNvl) triggers receptivity. These nuclei are modulated by glutamate, which inhibits female receptivity, and GABA, which has a dichotomous action in female sexual motivation. Here, we evaluated the action of THC on the modulation of social and sexual behaviours, on signalling pathways of MPN and VMNvl and how sex hormones influence these parameters. Young ovariectomized female rats, given sex hormones (oestradiol benzoate, EB, and progesterone, P) and THC were used for behavioural testing and for immunofluorescence analyses of vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VGlut2) and GAD (glutamic acid decarboxylase)67 expression. Results showed that females given EB + P exhibited a higher preference for male partner, as well as higher proceptivity and a higher receptivity than control or females given only EB. Females treated with THC presented similar responses in control or EB + P female rats and even more facilitated behavioural responses in EB females than the ones that did not receive THC. Immunofluorescence results in the MPN exhibited a decreased expression of GAD67 and VGlut2 in EB + THC‐treated female rats. Within VMNvl of EB‐primed rats no changes in the expression of both proteins were observed after THC exposure. This study demonstrates how the possible outcomes of endocannabinoid system instability within hypothalamic neuron connectivity can modify female rat sociosexual behaviour.
From remotely sensed solar‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence to ecosystem structure, function, and service: Part I—Harnessing theory
Authors: Sun Ying , Gu Lianhong , Wen Jiaming , van der Tol Christiaan , Porcar‐Castell Albert , Joiner Joanna , Chang Christine Y. , Magney Troy , Wang Lixin , Hu Leiqiu , Rascher Uwe , Zarco‐Tejada Pablo , Barrett Christopher B. , Lai Jiameng , Han Jimei , Luo Zhenqi
Published: February 2023

Solar‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) is a remotely sensed optical signal emitted during the light reactions of photosynthesis. The past two decades have witnessed an explosion in availability of SIF data at increasingly higher spatial and temporal resolutions, sparking applications in diverse research sectors (e.g., ecology, agriculture, hydrology, climate, and socioeconomics). These applications must deal with complexities caused by tremendous variations in scale and the impacts of interacting and superimposing plant physiology and three‐dimensional vegetation structure on the emission and scattering of SIF. At present, these complexities have not been overcome. To advance future research, the two companion reviews aim to (1) develop an analytical framework for inferring terrestrial vegetation structures and function that are tied to SIF emission, (2) synthesize progress and identify challenges in SIF research via the lens of multi‐sector applications, and (3) map out actionable solutions to tackle these challenges and offer our vision for research priorities over the next 5–10 years based on the proposed analytical framework. This paper is the first of the two companion reviews, and theory oriented. It introduces a theoretically rigorous yet practically applicable analytical framework. Guided by this framework, we offer theoretical perspectives on three overarching questions: (1) The forward (mechanism) question—How are the dynamics of SIF affected by terrestrial ecosystem structure and function? (2) The inference question: What aspects of terrestrial ecosystem structure, function, and service can be reliably inferred from remotely sensed SIF and how? (3) The innovation question: What innovations are needed to realize the full potential of SIF remote sensing for real‐world applications under climate change? The analytical framework elucidates that process complexity must be appreciated in inferring ecosystem structure and function from the observed SIF; this framework can serve as a diagnosis and inference tool for versatile applications across diverse spatial and temporal scales.
Across‐model spread and shrinking in predicting peatland carbon dynamics under global change
Authors: Hou Enqing , Ma Shuang , Huang Yuanyuan , Zhou Yu , Kim Hyung‐Sub , López‐Blanco Efrén , Jiang Lifen , Xia Jianyang , Tao Feng , Williams Christopher , Williams Mathew , Ricciuto Daniel , Hanson Paul J. , Luo Yiqi
Published: February 2023

Large across‐model spread in simulating land carbon (C) dynamics has been ubiquitously demonstrated in model intercomparison projects (MIPs), and became a major impediment in advancing climate change prediction. Thus, it is imperative to identify underlying sources of the spread. Here, we used a novel matrix approach to analytically pin down the sources of across‐model spread in transient peatland C dynamics in response to a factorial combination of two atmospheric CO2 levels and five temperature levels. We developed a matrix‐based MIP by converting the C cycle module of eight land models (i.e., TEM, CENTURY4, DALEC2, TECO, FBDC, CASA, CLM4.5 and ORCHIDEE) into eight matrix models. While the model average of ecosystem C storage was comparable to the measurement, the simulation differed largely among models, mainly due to inter‐model difference in baseline C residence time. Models generally overestimated net ecosystem production (NEP), with a large spread that was mainly attributed to inter‐model difference in environmental scalar. Based on the sources of spreads identified, we sequentially standardized model parameters to shrink simulated ecosystem C storage and NEP to almost none. Models generally captured the observed negative response of NEP to warming, but differed largely in the magnitude of response, due to differences in baseline C residence time and temperature sensitivity of decomposition. While there was a lack of response of NEP to elevated CO2 (eCO2) concentrations in the measurements, simulated NEP responded positively to eCO2 concentrations in most models, due to the positive responses of simulated net primary production. Our study used one case study in Minnesota peatland to demonstrate that the sources of across‐model spreads in simulating transient C dynamics can be precisely traced to model structures and parameters, regardless of their complexity, given the protocol that all the matrix models were driven by the same gross primary production and environmental variables.
How does the modern home environment impact children's mathematics knowledge? Evidence from Canadian elementary children's digital home numeracy practice (DHNP)
Authors: Alam Sabrina Shajeen , Dubé Adam Kenneth
Published: February 2023

Background

A strong knowledge of mathematics, beginning at the elementary level, is critical for participation in today's complex world. The home may be one way to facilitate individualized mathematics instruction, given that children spend more time at home than in an academic institution. Therefore, researchers are interested to see whether the home numeracy environment (HNE) can provide a solid foundation for children's mathematics understanding. Further, children's digital mathematics exploration at home is increasingly common (e.g., using math apps).

Objectives

The present study evaluates the digital home numeracy practice (DHNP) model and explores its effect on children's mathematics knowledge across five domains (numeration, number operation, pattern recognition, spatial sense, and applied problem‐solving).

Methods

To conduct this study, 117 Canadian parents and their children from Grade 1 through 5 completed a DHNP survey and a range of in‐person mathematics measures.

Results and Conclusions

The results identified significant relations between parents and children's implicit mathematics factors (e.g., math anxiety, motivation). Children's mathematics anxiety and parents' academic estimations and expectations for their children positively predicted children's mathematics knowledge. In terms of DHNP components, parental involvement in DHNP predicted children's numeration and applied problem‐solving knowledge.

Implications

Taken together, the results detail the contribution of parental and child factors to children's mathematics knowledge and suggest that parents adjust their role in DHNP according to their children's mathematics ability.
Changes in quality of life over time in patients diagnosed with oral leukoplakia: A prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Frydrych Agnieszka M. , van Schaijik Bede , Parsons Richard , Kujan Omar
Published: February 2023

Background

Oral leukoplakia (OL) is one of the most prevalent oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD). Although there is emerging evidence that quality of life (QoL) is impaired in subjects with OL; studies to date are based on single and heterogenous point‐in‐time assessments. The aim of this study was to ascertain if QoL scores change over time in individuals diagnosed with OL.

Methods

Forty‐one individuals with OL were administered the Short Generic Health Questionnaire (SF‐12) and the discipline‐specific Oral Potentially Malignant Disorder Questionnaire (OPMDQ) at four points in time: at the time of clinical diagnosis, at the post‐biopsy review (confirmed diagnosis), and at 3‐ and 6‐month follow‐up appointments. Responses were compared between the four time points.

Results

No significant differences were observed in the SF‐12 questionnaire scores over time. However, a general improvement in the participants' life quality was evident over the 6‐month period under investigation in the domains of psychological and social well‐being (p = 0.0027) and effect of treatment on daily life (p = 0.0317) as well as in the total score (p = 0.0005) of the OPMDQ. Age, gender, medical status, tobacco/alcohol use, lesion site, size, the presence of dysplasia and treatment did not impact QoL scores over time.

Conclusions

QoL scores of OL subjects may improve with time. Our results suggest that studies examining QoL in individuals with OL should be controlled for time at which the participants are surveyed.
Biomechanical influence of narrow‐diameter implants placed at the crestal and subcrestal level in the maxillary anterior region. A 3D finite element analysis
Authors: Cruz Ronaldo S. , Fernandes e Oliveira Hiskell Francine , Lemos Cleidiel Aparecido Araújo , de Souza Batista Victor Eduardo , Capalbo da Silva Rodrigo , Verri Fellippo R.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the tendency of movement, stress distribution, and microstrain of single‐unit crowns in simulated cortical and trabecular bone, implants, and prosthetic components of narrow‐diameter implants with different lengths placed at the crestal and subcrestal levels in the maxillary anterior region using 3D finite element analysis (FEA).

Materials and methods

Six 3D models were simulated using Invesalius 3.0, Rhinoceros 4.0, and SolidWorks software. Each model simulated the right anterior maxillary region including a Morse taper implant of Ø2.9 mm with different lengths (7, 10, and 13 mm) placed at the crestal and subcrestal level and supporting a cement‐retained monolithic single crown in the area of tooth 12. The FEA was performed using ANSYS 19.2. The simulated applied force was 178 N at 0°, 30°, and 60°. The results were analyzed using maps of displacement, von Mises (vM) stress, maximum principal stress, and microstrain.

Results

Models with implants at the subcrestal level showed greater displacement. vM stress increased in the implant and prosthetic components when implants were placed at the subcrestal level compared with the crestal level; the length of the implants had a low influence on the stress distribution. Higher stress and strain concentrations were observed in the cortical bone of the subcrestal placement, independent of implant length. Non‐axial loading influenced the increased stress and strain in all the evaluated structures.

Conclusions

Narrow‐diameter implants positioned at the crestal level showed a more favorable biomechanical behavior for simulated cortical bone, implants, and prosthetic components. Implant length had a smaller influence on stress or strain distribution than the other variables.
Examining the role of maternity benefit comparisons and pregnancy discrimination in women's turnover decisions
Authors: Paustian‐Underdahl Samantha C. , Little Laura M. , Mandeville Ashley M. , Hinojosa Amanda S. , Keyes Andrew
Published: February 2023

Retaining pregnant women and mothers is a prevalent challenge for companies in the United States. In this paper, we highlight the importance of favorable maternity benefits. Specifically, we argue that maternity benefits can signal how pregnant workers are treated within the organization, particularly as women compare their own benefits to referent others'. Drawing from identity threat response theory, we propose a conceptual framework that explains the influence of maternity benefit comparisons on perceptions of discrimination and, subsequently, turnover. Upon evaluating two studies using multi‐wave survey data and two vignette studies, our results indicate that when women perceive their maternity benefits to be less favorable than referent others' benefits, they perceive more pregnancy discrimination. In turn, perceptions of pregnancy discrimination influence their subsequent turnover decisions. Consistent with identity threat response theory, our results also suggest that perceived supervisor support is a significant moderator, weakening the impact of maternity benefit comparisons on perceptions of pregnancy discrimination.
Continuity, change and new ways of being: An exploratory assessment of farmer's experiences and responses to public health restrictions during the COVID‐19 pandemic in a rural Irish community
Authors: O'Reilly Alexis , Meredith David , Foley Ronan , McCarthy Jack
Published: February 2023

Farming occupations are, in the Global North, generally solitary, and a growing body of research identifies this as one of the factors that underpins low levels of wellbeing and poor mental health amongst farmers. The primary public health response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic focused on reducing transmission of the virus by limiting interactions of people. This article seeks to assess the impact of these restrictions on farmer's experience of isolation and how it shaped their wellbeing. Applying a broad socio‐ecological framework, we analyse change, continuity and shifts in social and economic relations and their spatial reconfiguration during the COVID‐19 pandemic as recounted in semi‐structured, qualitative interviews. We found that while COVID‐19 has disrupted socio‐spatial relations, including key sites of socialisation for farmers and rural communities, occupational isolation was viewed as a positive feature of farming as was working in nature. Familial and informal networks of support were important throughout the pandemic, while novel engagements with communication technologies facilitated both change and continuity of social and economic interaction. Whilst these findings are broadly positive, the reconfiguration of, particularly, economic relations is viewed as accelerating the turn towards service delivery using technology and, consequently, further reducing opportunities for social interaction.
DNA methylation variation is crucial to restore adventitious rooting ability during in vitro shoot culture‐induced rejuvenation in apple rootstock
Authors: Wang Zhe , Li Zhengnan , Wu Dongchen , Tian Qiuye , Su Shenghui , Cheng Chenxia , Nie Jiyun , Yuan Yongbing , Wang Yongzhang , Xu Xiaozhao
Published: February 2023

In vitro shoot culture has been widely used for restoring adventitious rooting ability in rooting recalcitrant woody perennial species for the past few decades, but its molecular mechanism is largely uncovered. DNA methylation is an essential epigenetic mark that participates in many biological processes. Recent reports suggested a role of DNA methylation in vitro culture in plants. In this study, we characterized the single‐base resolution DNA methylome and transcriptome of adult and in vitro shoot culture‐induced rejuvenation cuttings of apple rootstock M9T337. We found a global decrease in DNA methylation during rejuvenation, which may be correlated with increased expression of DNA demethylase genes and decreased expression of DNA methyltransferase genes. We additionally documented DNA hypomethylation in ‘T337’_R in gene protomer associated with higher transcript levels of several adventitious rooting‐related genes. The application of a DNA methylation inhibitor (5‐azacytidine) enhanced the adventitious rooting ability and the expression level of adventitious rooting‐related genes, such as, MdANT, MdMPK3, MdABCB21, MdCDC48, MdKIN8B, pri‐MdMIR156a5 and pri‐MdMIR156a12. Together, the DNA hypomethylation is critical for the rejuvenation‐dependent adventitious rooting ability in apple rootstock. In addition, increased DNA methylation was also found in thousands of genes in ‘T337’_R. We additionally documented that DNA hypermethylation is required for inhibition of adventitious rooting‐repressed genes, such as MdGAD5a, encoding glutamate decarboxylase, which can catalyze glutamate decarboxylated to form γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA). Our results revealed that in vitro shoot culture‐dependent DNA methylation variation plays important roles in adventitious rooting in apple rootstock.
Prevalence and clinical correlations of olfactory recess dilatation in MRI studies of the feline brain
Authors: McGregor Ombeline , Genain Marie‐Aude , Williams Timothy Lee , Alves Lisa
Published: February 2023

The ability to differentiate clinical ventriculomegaly from incidental ventricular enlargement remains a challenge in veterinary radiology. Dilatation of one or both olfactory lobe recesses is occasionally seen on MRI of the brain in otherwise normal cats. The purpose of this study was therefore to determine the prevalence of this finding within a population of neurologically normal and neurologically abnormal cats, and to investigate associations with signalment, clinical and neurological examination findings, and MRI features. An observational retrospective cohort study was performed, and archived records were searched for cats that had undergone MRI of the head, including the olfactory lobes. Medical data and MRI parameters were recorded. One hundred fifty‐one cats were included, with olfactory recess dilatation present in 56 cats. In 16 neurologically normal cats, olfactory recess dilatation was the only MRI finding. Olfactory recess dilatation was not associated with age, sex, breed, or with the presence of nasal disease. A significant association was found between generalized ventriculomegaly (P = 0.001) and the presence of CSF abnormalities (P = 0.036). Eleven percent of our cohort (16/151) demonstrated olfactory recess dilatation in the absence of other neurological or structural intracranial disease, suggesting that this may be seen as a normal variation in some cats.
A Novel Analytical Explicit Method to Calculate Formed Wheel and Tooth Flank of Involute Gears in Profile Grinding Process
Authors: Guo Qiang , Zhao Weisen , Shu Changlin , Lee Yuan-Shin , Sun Yuwen , Ren Lei , Song Mingzhe
Published: February 2023

Gear drive is a common and efficient way to transfer power and motion. To ensure the machining accuracy of gears, the tooth flanks are formed by profile grinding technology in some cases. In the profile grinding process, the calculation of wheels using the information of gears named as the forward-calculation process and obtaining gears based on wheels (the backward-calculation process) traditionally adopt numerical ways. It is always time consuming and large code quantity. To conquer these drawbacks, this article presents an analytical method using the envelope theory to compute the contacting curves that are the basis of getting tooth flanks or wheels in the forward- or the backward-calculation process. For the forward-calculation process, the tooth flank is expressed in the form of an extended straight-line surface that can be taken as the generating line moving along the helix curve. The normal vector for an arbitrary point on the generating line is the same. By using this characteristic, the contacting curve can be explicitly gained as the function of only one parameter. Similarly, in the backward-calculation process, the formed wheel is expressed by a cross section rotating about its axis. For this type of surface, the guide curve is a circle, and the normal vectors of points on the guideline insect with the axis at the same point. Taking advantage of this principle, the contacting curve can be analytically expressed by only one unknown parameter. To verify the validity of the proposed method, some examples and comparative experiments are performed. The results show that the presented method is correct. When compared with the classical numerical way, the time span for the proposed method is 15 times less than that for the numerical way. When compared with the practical grinding wheel and the practical gear, the maximum errors are 0.18 mm and 0.0099 mm, respectively. The proposed method can be served as one of the universal ways to generate formed wheels or involute gears in the profile grinding process.
Is contour integration essential? Alternatives for beginning physics students
Authors: Narayan Onuttom
Published: February 2023

The standard method to evaluate many definite integrals that are encountered in physics is contour integration. Here, we show how these can be evaluated by other means, enlarging the toolbox available to students and enabling the discussion of physical problems where these integrals arise before contour integration is introduced.
Supplemental Material: Age variability and subdecadal time-averaging in oyster reef death assemblages
Authors: Durham Stephen R. , al. et
Published: February 2023

Additional details about sampling methodology and environmental context, radiocarbon results validation and correction for dead carbon, and an assessment of geographic and temporal age variability. 
Routine follow-up may not be needed for people undergoing joint replacement surgery
Authors: Saul Helen , Cassidy Samantha , Deeney Brendan , Kwint Jemma , Conaghan Philip
Published: February 2023

The study

Kingsbury SR, Smith LK, Czoski Murray CJ, et al. Safety of disinvestment in mid- to late-term follow-up post primary hip and knee replacement: the UK SAFE evidence synthesis and recommendations.Health Soc Care Deliv Res2022;10. doi:10.3310/KODQ0769.

To read the full NIHR Alert, go to:https://evidence.nihr.ac.uk/alert/joint-replacement-many-people-can-safely-wait-10-years-for-follow-up/