bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking deforestation patterns to soil types: A multifractal approach
Authors: Urgilez‐Clavijo Andrea , de la Riva Juan , Rivas‐Tabares David Andrés , Tarquis Ana M.
Published: July 2020

In the three last decades, continental Ecuador biosphere reserves (CEBRs) have undergone important land cover transformations because of human‐managed systems such as agriculture, livestock, forestry, and urbanization. Thus, the native landscape structure has been altered, exhibiting a mosaic of patches with varying sizes and shapes. The resulting landscape could shape some patterns over time, reflecting the complex interactions between human activities and biotic‐abiotic factors, such as soil, climate, and water availability. Quantifying the landscape patterns and their dynamics is essential for the monitoring and assessment of the ecological consequences of land‐cover change in time. Based on the soil maps and raster land‐cover maps from 1990 to 2016 of two CEBRs, the spatial deforestation patterns were quantified through lacunarity and multifractal analysis. To conduct these analyses, the deforested areas were identified and overlapped to predominant soil types. The results showed that the deforestation process pattern and soil types interact through complex relations due to specific site characteristics. Thereby, both soil and land cover interacted in fractal structures. The patch area distribution of deforestation patterns linked to soil types reveals a power‐law relationship in which, as the area of the deforested patches increased, their frequency decreased. Also, this relation presents self‐similarity and multifractal behaviour over a wide range of scales from 46–2,674 pixels, with a pixel size of 30 m × 30 m. However, each CEBR showed varying degrees of heterogeneity and complexity, which were reflected through lacunarity and multifractal parameters. The dynamics of deforestation patterns linked to soil types can be spatially dependent on the initial patchiness state, the distance to the adjacent patches, and the suitability of the soil for agrarian activities. Altogether, these were the spatial underlying factors of the deforestation evolution in the two CEBRs.

Highlights

Deforestation patterns show spatial self‐similarity

Deforestation patterns are linked to soil types

Landscape ecology, lacunarity, and multifractal analyses are useful to understand deforestation patterns

Initial patch location, distance to the nearest neighbour and soil suitability boost the deforestation expansion
Stroke chameleons: acute central pain mimicking acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Rebordão L. , Nannoni S. , Strambo D. , Michel P.
Published: July 2020

Background and purpose

‘Stroke chameleons’ refer to a group of syndromes that initially are not diagnosed as cerebrovascular events but are then found to represent stroke. The objective of this study was to report on acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) patients with chest or epigastric pain of central origin, clinically resembling an acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods

A prospective list was kept of AIS patients admitted to our institution between 2002 and 2014 with stroke symptoms appearing as an ACS on first clinical evaluation. For each identified patient, clinical and radiological features, delay to correct diagnosis, stroke etiology and 3‐month functional outcome were reviewed. Data were mainly extracted from the Acute Stroke Registry and Analysis of Lausanne (ASTRAL).

Results

Five AIS patients presenting mainly with chest or epigastric pain leading to a wrong diagnosis of ACS were identified. Cardiac evaluation showed minor electrocardiogram changes in two patients and isolated troponin elevation in one, subsequently shown to be of non‐coronary origin. The correct diagnosis of AIS was made only between 1 h and 72 h after hospital arrival. Four patients presented a vertebrobasilar stroke. None of the patients received acute stroke revascularization therapy despite two of them being in the time window for such treatment.

Conclusion

Acute ischaemic stroke presentation can infrequently resemble an ACS. In cases of negative cardiac work‐up, a central origin of chest pain should be considered, especially in the presence of subtle other neurological symptoms or signs. Appropriate diagnosis of stroke could avoid treatment delays and improve outcomes.
Transient cortico‐cortical disconnection during psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES)
Authors: Madec Tanguy , Lagarde Stanislas , McGonigal Aileen , Arthuis Marie , Benar Christian‐Georges , Bartolomei Fabrice
Published: July 2020

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are paroxysmal clinical events that are often misdiagnosed as epileptic seizures, but which are not associated with electrographic discharge. Brain connectivity changes occurring during PNES are not known. We studied functional connectivity (Fc) in two patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy, explored by stereotactic electroencephalography (EEG), in whom we recorded both epileptic seizures (ES) and PNES. Functional connectivity using pair‐wise nonlinear correlation was computed between signals from seven brain areas: amygdala, hippocampus, lateral temporal cortex, anterior insula, orbitofrontal cortex, prefrontal cortex, and lateral parietal cortex. We assessed changes in global Fc during PNES in comparison with a background period. During PNES, a global decrease of Fc occurred between the different brain regions studied, compared with the interictal period. In both patients, decreased Fc was prominent in connections involving the anterior insula and parietal cortex. In conclusion, some PNES are associated with ictal functional disconnection between brain areas, particularly involving the parietal cortices and the anterior insula.
Drought shrinks terrestrial upland resilience to climate change
Authors: Zheng Yajing , Jin Yaguo , Ma Ruoya , Kong Delei , Zhu‐Barker Xia , Horwath William R. , Niu Shuli , Wang Hong , Xiao Xin , Liu Shuwei , Zou Jianwen
Published: July 2020

Aim

Drought has been shown to alter terrestrial ecosystem carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) dynamics, and thus feedback to future climate. However, drought‐induced changes in terrestrial upland C and N pools and the drought response of soil carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) fluxes are yet to be quantified.

Location

Global upland ecosystems.

Time period

2000–2018.

Major taxa studied

Terrestrial C and N fluxes.

Methods

A meta‐analysis was conducted that compiled 1,344 measurements from 128 manipulative studies worldwide to obtain a general picture of terrestrial C and N cycling responses to soil drought stress and identify the primary driving factors.

Results

We showed that drought significantly decreased plant C pools, with stronger negative responses of aboveground than belowground C components. Drought significantly decreased soil respiration (RS) and N2O fluxes by 19% and 29%, respectively. There were non‐significant changes in soil organic C and N pools in response to drought; in contrast to a considerable decrease in soil dissolved organic C (−22%), there was a robust increase in soil nitrate‐N (26%) following short‐term drought impact. By relating net ecosystem productivity (NEP) to the difference between net primary production (NPP) and soil heterotrophic respiration (RH), drought was found to drive a decrease up to −37% in NEP, being equivalent to a reduction in terrestrial net C uptake of 2.91 t C/ha.

Main conclusions

Our study provides insights into soil release of CO2 and N2O with a linkage to the changes in terrestrial C and N pools in response to drought across upland biomes. Our findings highlight that, despite the lowered soil C release rate, the capacity of upland biomes as a C sink to slow climate change would still be weakened due to a robust decline of plant‐derived C input to soil in a future drier climate.
Role of dewatering and roasting parameters in the quality of handmade gari
Authors: Dahdouh Layal , Escobar Andrés , Rondet Eric , Ricci Julien , Fliedel Geneviève , Adinsi Laurent , Dufour Dominique , Cuq Bernard , Delalonde Michèle
Published: July 2020

Gari is a common cassava precooked dried semolina in sub‐Saharan Africa. Our study investigated the role of process parameters and mash water content on gari quality during traditional roasting stage. The statistical analysis for eight quality criteria revealed that gari quality is highly influenced by the process parameters adopted by the operators. To emphasise the twin impact of roasting parameters and mash water content, different mashes with varying water content were roasted leading to different adjustments of the roasting conditions according to the operators. When the variability of the water content becomes greater, a greater variability in the final quality of the obtained garis was observed between operators (lightness, swelling capacity, starch content, texture and colour). These results suggest that technological improvements to the gari process could be achieved by appropriate management of the roasting and dewatering parameters.
The role of trade union collective voice in the access to training for workers in New Zealand
Authors: Bryson Jane
Published: July 2020

This paper explores trade union collective voice as a mechanism for worker participation in training decision making. New Zealand is an example of a liberal market economy (LME) with relatively weak regulatory pressure on employers to engage in training. Consequently, drivers such as trade union collective voice could fill an important role in workers securing support for training from their employers. The paper argues that given the reduced power of unions in many LMEs workers potentially face a twofold challenge: the first to secure an entitlement to training and the second to have any further participation in training decision making. Using the example of New Zealand, the paper examines whether collective bargaining secures entitlement to training. Then, employing the categorization of approaches to workforce development as either expansive or restrictive, it investigates the nature of that entitlement. Following this, the paper reports on dialogue with trade unions through which a more nuanced picture emerges of collective voice and the challenges to worker participation in training decision making. Finally, it reflects on the role collective voice could play in worker access to training.
Improving picking performance at a large retailer warehouse by combining probabilistic simulation, optimization, and discrete‐event simulation
Authors: Amorim‐Lopes Mário , Guimarães Luís , Alves João , Almada‐Lobo Bernardo
Published: July 2020

Distribution warehouses are a critical part of supply chains, representing a nonnegligible share of the operating costs. This is especially true for unautomated, labor‐intensive warehouses, partially due to time‐consuming activities such as picking up items or traveling. Inventory categorization techniques, as well as zone storage assignment policies, may help in improving operations, but may also be short‐sighted. This work presents a three‐step methodology that uses probabilistic simulation, optimization, and event‐based simulation (SOS) to analyze and experiment with layout and storage assignment policies to improve the picking performance. In the first stage, picking performance is estimated under different storage assignment policies and zone configurations using a probabilistic model. In the second stage, a mixed integer optimization model defines the overall warehouse layout by selecting the configuration and storage assignment policy for each zone. Finally, the optimized layout solution is tested under demand uncertainty in the third, final simulation phase, through a discrete‐event simulation model. The SOS methodology was validated with three months of operational data from a large retailer's warehouse, successfully illustrating how it may be successfully used for improving the performance of a distribution warehouse.
An Automated Technique for the Radiographic Determination of Bone Age
Authors: Clifton Donald K. , Bremner William J. , Steiner Robert A.
Published: July 2020

We have developed an automated procedure for determining bone‐age in the monkey, Macaca fascicularis. The status of epiphysial junctions and sesamoids were determined from radiographs. Epiphyses were scored as either open or closed, and sesamoids were scored as either present or absent. Bone‐age was calculated by a computer program that stored and used a data base of probabilities for epiphysial closure and sesamoid appearance. The simplicity of scoring, combined with the speed and accuracy of the calculations, make this technique potentially adaptable for use in a variety of primate species.
Synchronization of Menstrual Cycles in Pigtailed Macaques Using Photoperiod
Authors: Bowers Charles L. , Elton Robert H.
Published: July 2020

Periods of artificial light were manipulated to induce synchronous ovulation in a group of pigtailed macaques. Treatments consisted of constant light exposure over diminishing periods of 9,7,5,3 and 3 days. Ovulation was assessed externally and assumed to have occurred on the first day of perineal detumescence. The results demonstrate that manipulation of light exposure affects reproductive cycling.
Meeting Requirements for Primate Animals in Drug Development
Authors: Weber H.
Published: July 2020

An overview on the numbers and species of monkeys used in the area of drug development in the USA and Europe during the years 1975 to 1981 is presented. A marked decline of 25% to 40% in the numbers used is due to a more critical use of the various species, besides a shortage of available animals. However, because for certain experiments some primate species are the animals of choice, there is a limit to further reductions. For future supplies, intensive breeding units, semifree‐range colonies, and game farming may be considered. Using the revenue of exported animals, a financial contribution to the conservation of feral animals in the countries of origin could be made.
Comparison of Research Cost: Man—Primate Animal—Other Animal Models
Authors: Fitzgerald T.A.
Published: July 2020

The costs of research in human subjects are compared to those in primate animals and in other animal models on the basis of data available from a U.S. institution. The cost of experimentation in a chimpanzee is 3.59% of the per diem cost of clinical research in man. The cost for the dog is 37.1% of that of the chimpanzee, and the mouse costs 2.02% of the cost of the dog.
Idiopathic Precocious Puberty in the Chimpanzee: A Case Report
Authors: Winterer Jorg , Merriam George R. , Gross Erhard , Sly D. Lewis , Faiman Charles , Loriaux D. Lynn , Cutler Gordon B.
Published: July 2020

A female chimpanzee developed premature sex skin swelling, breast budding, advanced bone age, and moderate estrogen effect of the vaginal cytology. Extensive radiographic and hormonal studies excluded all the known causes of precocious puberty and pseudo‐puberty, yielding a diagnosis of idiopathic true precocious puberty. To our knowledge this is the first observation of idiopathic true precocious puberty in a chimpanzee.
Temperature Changes Suggestive of Hot Flushes in Rhesus Monkeys: Preliminary Observations
Authors: Dierschke Donald J.
Published: July 2020

To determine if changes in skin temperature known to accompany hot flushes in women also occur in monkeys, temperature recordings were made in three adult rhesus monkeys before and after ovariectomy and in one postmenopausal female. Increases occurred especially on the skin of the ear pinna, with greater frequency following ovariectomy. This animal model may be suitable to investigate the mechanism which causes hot flushes in women.
Analysis of Hematologic Findings in Healthy and Sick Adult Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Authors: Hawkey C.M.
Published: July 2020

In order to assess the validity of interspecies extrapolation of hematological information, reference values obtained on 63 captive adult chimpanzees were compared with normal values for man. The discriminative power of both chimpanzee and human reference values was tested by the ability of each to identify abnormalities in the blood in 15 sick chimpanzees. The results indicated that human criteria could be applied to most chimpanzee red cell values but species differences were found in erythrocyte sedimentation rates and neutrophil counts.
Crossed Renal Ectopia in a Squirrel Monkey (Saimiri sciureus) and an Owl Monkey (Aotus trivirgatus)
Authors: Chalifoux Laura V.
Published: July 2020

A 5‐year‐old female squirrel monkey, Saimiri sciureus, died with a ceco‐colonic infarct. An incidental finding was renal ectopia: The left kidney was located between the common iliac arteries posterior to the bifurcation of the aorta and to the right of the body midline. An adult owl monkey, Aotus trivirgatus, was killed in renal failure due to end‐stage glomerulonephritis. Fused kidneys were located on the right side and posterior to the normal position. These are examples of crossed renal ectopia with and without fusion.
B Virus,Herpesvirus simiae:Historical Perspective
Authors: Palmer Amos E.
Published: July 2020

Between 1932 and 1972, 24 known infections of man by B virus caused 23 cases of encephalitis and 18 fatalities. The virus has been isolated from dermal lesions and neural ganglia from macaque monkeys. Serological evidence of infection is complicated by close antigenic relationships between B virus,Herpesvirus simplex, and SA8. Hyperimmune globulin produced from monkey, horse, and rabbit sera has not proved highly effective. Formalin‐inactivated vaccine appears safe and antigenic in man but has not been licensed. Half of all human subjects have neutralizing B virus antibody related to theirH. simplextiter. More stable animal populations and the improved use of protective apparel have reduced, but not eliminated, the risk of B virus to man.
Hemodynamic and Echocardiographic Evaluation of the Stumptailed Macaque: A Potential Nonhuman Primate Model for Pulmonary Vascular Disease
Authors: Weesner Kenneth M. , Kaplan Katherine
Published: July 2020

Stumptailed macaques (Macaca arctoides) were evaluated as to their suitability as an animal model for pulmonary hypertension. Animals used for this study were colony‐bred. Necropsy material from 63 animals revealed 32% with severe medial thickening of pulmonary arteries. Twenty‐nine stumptailed macaques underwent cardiac catheterization and M‐mode echocardiography. Hemodynamic measurement including pulmonary artery pressure response to 12% oxygen exposure identified three groups of animals with elevated, normal, and intermediate pulmonary artery pressures. Stumptailed macaques with elevated pulmonary artery pressure could be distinguished from other animals by echocardiography.
Nasal Cavity Carcinosarcoma in a Bonnet Macaque (Macaca radiata)
Authors: Slayter Michael V.
Published: July 2020

An example of a rare, highly aggressive malignant intranasal neoplasm in a male Bonnet macaque is presented. The tumor invaded the bony orbit, distorted the position of the globe, and metastasized to regional lymph nodes and lungs. Histologically the tumor was composed of both mesenchymal and epithelial components and probably was of minor salivary gland origin.
Quality of Semen Obtained by Electroejaculation From Chacma Baboons (Papio ursinus)
Authors: Bornman M.S. , van Vuuren M. , Meltzer D.G.A. , van der Merwe C.A. , Rensburg S.J.v.
Published: July 2020

Fifty‐four baboons (Papio ursinus) were subjected to an electro‐ejaculation procedure that yielded 683 useable ejaculates in 705 attempts. Quality evaluations by usual human spermiogram methods were applicable with only minor modifications to the procedures. By human criteria these wild baboons remained fertile after capture, and their use as a fertility model in pharmacological studies appeared to be appropriate.
Hepatocystis in Populations of Baboons (Papio hamadryas s.l.) of Tanzania and Ethiopia
Authors: Phillips‐Conroy Jane E. , Lambrecht Frank L. , Jolly Clifford J.
Published: July 2020

Bloodsmears from 119 yellow baboons (Papio hamadryas cynocephalus) in six groups in Mikumi National Park, Tanzania, and from 189 olive (P.h. anubis) hamadryas (P.h. hamadryas) and hybrid baboons in three groups in Awash National Park, Ethiopia showed differing levels of infection with Hepatocystis simiae. 0% to 42% in the Tanzanian groups were carriers of the parasite but none of the Ethiopian baboons was positive. The remarkable absence of H. simiae in the Ethiopian baboons is believed to be related to environmental factors that exclude transmission in the absence of the Culicoides vector.
Case of Disseminated African Histoplasmosis in a Baboon
Authors: Butler Thomas M. , Gleiser Chester A. , Bernal John C. , Ajello Libero
Published: July 2020

An adult red baboon (Papio cynocephalus papio) had a severe disseminated case of African histoplasmosis (Histoplasma capsulatum var. duboisii) with skin lesions from small pustules to ulcerative granulomas. Osteolytic lesions were seen radiographically. Treatment with ketoconazole for 6 months was unsuccessful.
Microinjection Into the Lateral Ventricle: Validation of the Procedure in Estrogen‐Treated Ovariectomized Cynomolgus Monkey
Authors: Jeanjean Bruno , Gordon Keith , Kerdelhue Bernard , Richardson Donald W. , Hodgen Gary D.
Published: July 2020

To demonstrate that microinjection into the lateral ventricle intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) of the brain of monkeys does not perturb normal function of the hypothalamic‐pituitary axis, ovariectomized cynomolgus monkeys were treated with a bolus of estradiol benzoate (E2β) (To hours) and an i.c.v. injection of 100 μl of saline solution at T–6 (group I: four monkeys) or at T+26 hours (group II: three monkeys). The lack of disturbance of the normal biphasic luteinizing hormone response to estrogen and low prolactin (PRL) concentrations allow us to conclude that this microinjection procedure did not disrupt normal endocrine events.
Subcutaneous Implantable Infusion Device for Chronic Intravenous Pulsatile Gonadotropin‐Releasing Hormone Treatment
Authors: Schmutzler Rita , van Uem Jan F.H.M. , Elkind‐Hirsch Karen , Hahn DoWon , McGuire J.L. , Danforth Douglas R. , Hodgen Gary D.
Published: July 2020

Preliminary data indicate the potential utility of an implantable subcutaneous device that facilitates chronic intravenous infusion of pulsatile gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) for ovulation induction. GnRH distribution curves were congruent in control monkeys and those with implanted devices. Tissue tolerance was good in this brief trial. These findings suggest that use of this or a similar implantable device be considered for chronic GnRH administration in human pulse therapy.
Thermal‐couple levels of 4S3/2 and 2H11/2 in Na(Ca, Sr)La(VO4)2:Er3+ phosphors for potential optical thermometers
Authors: Hua Yongbin , Yu Jae Su
Published: July 2020

Novel green‐emitting erbium(III) (Er3+)‐activated Na(Ca, Sr)La(VO4)2 phosphors with an interesting and stable trigonal structure were prepared. The crystal structure, elemental composition, morphology, photoluminescence, and sensing properties were investigated in detail. The color purity values of optimal NaSrLa(VO4)2:0.05Er3+ and NaCaLa(VO4)2:0.05Er3+ phosphors were calculated to be about 92.91% and 90.73% with the Commission Internationale de I’Eclairage color coordinates of (0.283, 0.684) and (0.295, 0.676), respectively. Meanwhile, the sensing property and cycling performance of those samples were also studied based on the thermal‐couple levels of 4S3/2 and 2H11/2. The maximum absolute sensing sensitivity values of the NaCaLa(VO4)2:Er3+ and NaSrLa(VO4)2:Er3+ phosphors were found to be 9.23 × 10−3 and 7.69 × 10−3 K−1 while the relative sensing sensitivity values were found to be 1.15% and 1.20% K−1, respectively. Furthermore, several repeated tests confirmed that the cycling performance was stable, demonstrating that the resultant samples with high and stable sensing sensitivity are great potential for optical thermometers.
Unintended ICD discharge in a patient undergoing bladder tumor resection utilizing monopolar cautery and full‐body return electrode
Authors: Lefevre Ryan J. , Crossley George H. , Sorabella Laura L. , Siegrist Kara K. , Eagle Susan S.
Published: July 2020

Patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) and implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) devices frequently present for surgical procedures. If electrocautery is used, careful planning is needed to avoid inappropriate device function or device damage. Published consensus statements suggest that if the surgery is below the umbilicus, interference is typically minimal, and therefore it is not recommended to reprogram or disable the CIED. When these guidelines were published, full‐body return electrodes were not commonly used in clinical practice, and therefore were not addressed in the recommendations. A 76‐year‐old male with a single chamber ICD underwent bladder surgery under general anesthesia. Monopolar cautery was used with a full‐body return electrode. The patient had undergone a similar procedure multiple times prior utilizing a traditional thigh adhesive return electrode without any inappropriate ICD discharges. During the procedure, the patient's movement was noted with electrocautery use which was suspected to be an inappropriate discharge of his ICD. Device interrogation was performed confirming two antitachycardia pacing therapies and four defibrillations due to interference from the electrocautery. This case examines inappropriate ICD discharge related to interference from electrocautery when utilizing a full‐body return electrode, despite a subumbilical location of surgery. Current consensus statement guidelines do not recommend device reprogramming or magnet used when surgery is below the umbilicus, however, these full‐body return electrodes were not routinely used when these guidelines were published. Based on these results, the authors avoid full‐body return electrodes in patients with CIEDs.
P2X7R promotes angiogenesis and tumour‐associated macrophage recruitment by regulating the NF‐κB signalling pathway in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Yang Chunhui , Shi Shuang , Su Ying , Tong Jing‐Shan , Li Liangjun
Published: July 2020

Overexpression of P2X7R has been observed in several tumours and is related to cancer advancement and metastasis. However, the role of P2X7R in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients is not well understood. In the current study, overexpression of P2X7R and the effects at the molecular and functional levels in CRC were assessed in a mouse orthotopic model. Functional assays, such as the CCK‐8 assay, wound healing and transwell assay, were used to determine the biological role of P2X7R in CRC cells. CSC‐related genes and properties were detected via sphere formation and real‐time PCR assays. The underlying mechanisms were explored by Western blotting, real‐time PCR and Flow cytometry. In this study, we found that overexpression of P2X7R increases in the in vivo growth of tumours. P2X7R overexpression also increased CD31, VEGF and concurrent angiogenesis. P2X7R up‐regulates aldehyde dehydrogenase‐1 (ALDH1) and CSC characteristics. Transplanted tumour cells with P2X7R overexpression stimulated cytokines to recruit tumour‐associated macrophage (TAMs) to increase the growth of tumours. We also found that the NF‐κB signalling pathway is involved in P2X7R‐induced cytokine up‐regulation. P2X7R promotes NF‐κB–dependent cytokine induction, which leads to TAM recruitment to control tumour growth and advancement and remodelling of the stroma. Our findings demonstrate that P2X7R plays a key role in TAM recruitment, which may be a therapeutic target for CRC patients.
Commentary on ‘Sebocyte differentiation as a new target for acne therapy: an in vivo experience’
Authors: Kemény L. , Szabó K.
Published: July 2020

Linked article: M. Ottaviani et al. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2020; 34: 1803–1814. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.16252.
Assessing psychological and nutritional impact of suspected orthorexia nervosa: a cross‐sectional pilot study
Authors: Mitrofanova E. , Mulrooney H. , Petróczi A.
Published: July 2020

Background

To date, research on the dietary patterns of individuals with potential orthorexic symptoms is lacking. This cross‐sectional pilot study aimed to explore the feasibility of assessing dietary patterns with psychological traits and states of individuals with possible orthorexic tendencies.

Methods

Dietary intakes of 10 individuals (two males and eight females) were assessed using 24‐h recall. Mean age of participants was 28.3 years; mean body mass index was 21.2 kg m–2. Nutrient intakes were compared with current dietary guidelines and the Eatwell Guide (Public Health England, 2016). Participants completed the ORTO‐15, the Eating Attitude Test (EAT‐26), the Obsessive‐Compulsive Inventory‐Revised edition (OCI‐R), Paulhus's Spheres of Control (SoC), the Rosenberg's Self‐Esteem Scale (RSES) and the Multidimensional Body‐Self Relations Questionnaire (MBSRQ).

Results

High levels of disparity across participants' psychometric scores and 24‐h recall results were observed. There was no single pattern of self‐imposed dietary restrictions among participants. Described dietary practices failed to meet the guidelines for several nutrients.

Conclusions

The results of this pilot study suggest that an extensive investigation of the diets of individuals with possible orthorexic tendencies in a large‐scale study would contribute to the understanding of this condition. In addition, the use of multiple psychometric instruments is recommended for diagnosing orthorexic nervosa.
The microscopic anatomy of endothelial cells in human atherosclerosis: Focus on ER and mitochondria
Authors: Perrotta Ida
Published: July 2020

Once regarded merely as a bland lipid storage disease consequence of aging, atherosclerosis is currently considered a slow and continuous inflammatory process (partially controllable by treatment) with complex etiology involving a multitude of genetic and environmental risk factors which ultimately result in the formation of the plaque. The vascular endothelium, a monolayer of endothelial cells (ECs), is an important regulatory "organ" critical for cardiovascular homeostasis in health which also contributes significantly to the pathomechanisms of several disease states, including atherosclerosis. Over the years, there has been evidence highlighting the central role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in the maintenance of endothelial function and perturbations in ER biology have been proposed to adversely affect a diverse range of endothelial functions. Of particular interest is the evidence that under certain pathophysiological circumstances, abnormal ER ultrastructure correlates with altered ER function and signaling and can contribute to cell injury and apoptosis. Therefore, the ultrastructural traits of ER membranes can have important implications not only for their functional bearings but also for the etiology and pathophysiology of diverse human disorders. With regard to atherosclerosis, the focus of ER research has been centered on the molecular signals originated from the ER to manage conditions of stress, leaving the fine structure of this organelle an almost unexplored (but promising) area of studies. There is, also, increasing evidence that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a critical role in promoting cell apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress, thereby contributing to atheroma growth. It is within this context that the present study has been undertaken to investigate the microscopic architecture of ECs in human atherosclerosis and to determine whether the potential structural abnormalities of ER and mitochondria may play a central pathogenic role in atherogenesis or may merely reflect the condition of a tissue whose integrity has already been disturbed or destroyed. For this purpose, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) remains a powerful technique that can not only provide information about the ultrastructural state of cell organelles but also allow the correlation between different subcellular alterations indicative of a certain pathophysiological condition and cellular response. The present study expands the spectrum of ultrastructural defects known to exist in human atherosclerosis and suggests that ER alterations may be of great importance in the pathogenesis of the disease. The architectural changes of ER may be considered early pathological events that precede any overt histologic abnormalities in the vascular endothelium and its subcellular organelles, primarily the mitochondrial pool.
Toxigenic Corynebacterium ulcerans associated with upper respiratory infections in cats and dogs
Authors: Abbott Y. , Efstratiou A. , Brennan G. , Hallanan S. , Leggett B. , Leonard F. C. , Markey B. K. , Tuite C. , Fry N. K.
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To describe infection in companion animals with the zoonotic pathogen Corynebacterium ulcerans and to determine its prevalence in clinically‐affected and healthy animals.

Materials and Methods

The clinical presentation and treatment of three cases of C. ulcerans infection is described. Two studies to determine C. ulcerans prevalence rates were undertaken: (a) a prospective study of nasal samples from healthy animals, 479 dogs and 72 cats; (b) a retrospective analysis of records of nasal samples collected over a 10‐year period from 189 dogs and 64 cats affected by respiratory signs.

Results

Toxigenic C. ulcerans was isolated from four cats with nasal discharge while concurrent C. ulcerans and mecC methicillin‐resistant S. aureus infection was detected in a dog suffering from chronic nasal discharge. Clinical features were not distinctive and all cases recovered following antimicrobial treatment. Multilocus sequence typing supported a common source for isolates from the shelter cats. Carriage rates of C. ulcerans in healthy animals were 0.42% (2/479) in dogs and 0.00% (0/72) in cats whereas in animals with signs of upper respiratory tract infection prevalence rates were 0.53% (1/189) in dogs and 6.25% (4/64) in cats.

Clinical Significance

Clinicians should be aware that dogs and cats can be infected with (or carriers of) toxigenic C. ulcerans Considering the potential zoonotic risk, assistance from medical and public health colleagues should be sought in confirmed cases.
Morphological divergence and the Quaternary speciation ofActaea purpurea(Ranunculaceae) and its relatives
Authors: Chang Xiao‐Peng , Zhang Jiu‐Dong , Li Xiao‐Fei , Huang Lei , Tian Xian‐Hua , Ren Yi , Zhang Jian‐Qiang
Published: July 2020

To understand the process and mechanism of speciation, a detailed analysis of origin and demographic history of recently diverged species pairs is necessary. Here, we investigate the evolutionary history ofActaea purpurea(P.K. Hsiao) J. Compton and its closest relatives,A. japonicaThunb. andA. biternata(Siebold and Zuccarini) Prantl. We aim to estimate important parameters of the divergence event, and to lay the foundation for further investigation of the speciation mechanism of this system. Floral and vegetative traits were measured and analyzed. Genetic structure, divergence history, and historical gene flow were also inferred from the plastid and single nucleotide polymorphism data. Floral traits were divergent, and a strong match between pollinator and floral traits was revealed. Genetically the two species were also well diverged, and the time of divergence was dated to the Pleistocene. The demographic modelling results suggest thatA. purpureahad continuous limited gene flow withA. japonicaandA. biternatasince divergence. More work is now needed to confirm that floral trait divergence was selected by pollinators, as well as to understand how pollinator isolation acts in conjunction with other reproductive barriers to reduce gene flow between the two species.
Hypocrisy, Standing to Blame and Second‐Personal Authority
Authors: Piovarchy Adam
Published: July 2020

This paper identifies why hypocrites lack the standing to blame others for certain wrongs. By identifying problems with thinking of hypocritical blame as inappropriate and examining how the concept of standing is used in other contexts, I argue that we should think of standing to blame as a status that grants agents a normative power. Using Darwall's account of second‐personal obligations, I argue that hypocrites lack the standing to blame because they lack the authority to blame. Hypocrites lack this authority because they fail to accept other people's second‐personal authority to make similar demands on them.
The Contemporary Presidency: Two Presidents, Two Crises: Bush Wrestles with 9/11, Trump Fumbles COVID‐19
Authors: Mayer Jeremy D.
Published: July 2020

This article compares the response of Presidents George W. Bush and Donald Trump to the two largest crises since the Cuban missile affair: 9/11 and the COVID‐19 pandemic. In examining how each president handled the early warnings, crisis communication, decision making, bureaucratic management, and the public response, we find a mixed picture. Employing these five criteria, it seems at this juncture that while the Bush response ultimately had some successes and some troubling long‐term consequences, the Trump crisis response is destined, in the absence of some dramatic change in events, to be ranked as among the worst in presidential history.

Keywords: Trump, Bush, Covid‐19, 9/11, presidents, presidency, crisis management
Age and ageing: What do they mean?
Authors: Räsänen Joona
Published: July 2020

This article provides a philosophical overview of different approaches to age and ageing. It is often assumed that our age is determined by the amount of time we have been alive. Here, I challenge this belief. I argue that there are at least three plausible, yet unsatisfactory, accounts to age and ageing: the chronological account, the biological account, and the experiential account. I show that all of them fall short of fully determining what it means to age. Addressing these problems, I suggest the Two‐tier principle of age: whenever the three accounts of age contradict, combine the two accounts that differ the least, and reject the third. However, while this principle does solve some difficulties, it is itself vulnerable to problems; therefore I propose we should jettison it. I conclude that there are no accounts to ageing that are satisfactory; they all come with a bullet to bite.
Policy uncertainty and foreign direct investment
Authors: Choi Sangyup , Furceri Davide , Yoon Chansik
Published: July 2020

While foreign direct investment (FDI) is known to be the most stable type of international capital flows, it may be particularly susceptible to heightened uncertainty because of its high fixed costs. We investigate the effect of domestic policy uncertainty on FDI inflows into 16 host countries using the OECD bilateral FDI panel data set and the economic policy uncertainty index from 1985 to 2013. The bilateral structure of the data enables us to disentangle pull factors of FDI from its push factors, thereby obtaining a cleaner causal identification of the higher domestic policy uncertainty effect. To alleviate remaining endogeneity concerns, we use the timing of “exogenous” elections as an instrument. We find that domestic policy uncertainty in a host country robustly reduces the FDI inflows, with the effect being larger in countries with less financial development.
Adaptor proteins: Flexible and dynamic modulators of immune cell signalling
Authors: Borowicz Paweł , Chan Hanna , Hauge Anette , Spurkland Anne
Published: July 2020

To maintain homeostasis, all cells respond to environmental cues via a multitude of surface receptors. In order to act appropriately in their environment, cells are dependent on the transduction of the incoming signal through tightly regulated and interconnected signalling pathways to the cell nucleus. In particular, cells implicated in the immune system greatly depend on such systems to respond in a flexible and dynamic manner to environmental challenges. One major group of intracellular proteins that are involved in these signalling pathways are adaptor proteins. Although adaptor proteins are essential for normal immune cell operation, the functional role of this group of signalling proteins remains to be fully appreciated. So far, research on adaptor proteins has revealed their unique potential in building transient complexes in a reversible, dynamic and inducible manner. In this review, we explore the roles of adaptor proteins – in space and time of intracellular signalling – and their associations with human disease. Examples of adaptor proteins expressed in hematopoietic cells highlight their crucial role in the immune system. Lastly, we present challenges faced in elucidating roles of adaptor proteins, as illustrated by the T cell–specific adaptor (TSAd) protein encoded by theSH2D2Agene.
The biomechanical effects of pronated foot function on gait. An experimental study
Authors: Dodelin Damien , Tourny Claire , L’Hermette Maxime
Published: July 2020

The relationship between foot kinematics and the development of lower extremity musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) has been the focus of recent attention. However, most studies evaluated static foot type and not dynamic foot function. The purpose was to compare lower limb and foot kinematics, and plantar pressures during gait in physically active individuals with pronated and non‐pronated foot function. Foot function in 154 adult participants was documented as pronated (n = 63) or neutral (n = 91) using 2 established methods: The Foot Posture Index and the Center of Pressure Excursion Index. Difference between the groups in triplanar motion of the lower limb during barefoot gait was evaluated using a 3D motion capture system incorporating the Oxford Foot Model. Dynamic parameters of plantar pressure were recorded using a pressure platform. Anterior‐posterior pelvic tilt range of motion (ROM), peak knee internal rotation, forefoot dorsiflexion ROM, peak forefoot abduction, and rearfoot eversion were all increased in those with pronated foot function. Hallux contact time and time to peak force under the medial forefoot were increased with pronated foot function, and maximal force under the lateral forefoot was reduced. Pronated foot function affected the whole lower limb kinematic chain during gait. These kinematic alterations could increase the risk of developing MSD. Further studies should elucidate the relationship between pronated foot function and MSD, and, if confirmed, foot function should be evaluated in clinical practice for patients with lower limb and low back pain.
Who Speaks for the Place? Cultural Dynamics of Conflicts Over Hazardous Industrial Development
Authors: Kojola Erik
Published: July 2020

Research in environmental sociology typically focuses on how communities mobilize against polluting industries in “not in my backyard” (NIMBY) reactions or accept industrial pollution. Instead, I explore how different groups react to the same proposed development with divergent NIMBY and “place it in my backyard” (PIMBY) demands. I use the emblematic case of controversial proposed copper mines in the rural Iron Range region of Minnesota to examine how different social actors use cultural repertoires to interpret development and assert legitimacy in making decisions about the place. Through interviews, ethnographic observation, and discourse analysis, I find that decisions about mining development become controversial because of how the projects resonate, or conflict, with people’s emotional meanings of place, not simply material benefits or scientific assessments of pollution. Pro‐mining mobilization from rural, white, and working‐class residents is justified by the right to defend a way of life. Opposition from environmentalists is framed as protecting a cherished place understood through experiences of outdoor recreation and wilderness that is now threatened by development. I advance environmental sociology by using concepts of cultural repertoires and place to examine cultural dynamics of environmental conflicts and how groups construct meanings of justice and assert legitimacy.
Mechanical Consequence of Induced Intervertebral Disc Degeneration in the SPARC-Null Mouse
Authors: Whittal Mitchel C. , Molladavoodi Sara , Zwambag Derek P. , Millecamps Magali , Stone Laura S. , Gregory Diane E.
Published: July 2020

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is associated with low back pain (LBP) and accompanied by mechanical changes to the spine. Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a protein that contributes to the functioning and maintenance of the extracellular matrix. SPARC-null mice display accelerated IVD degeneration and pain-associated behaviors. This study examined if SPARC-null mice also display altered spine mechanics as compared to wild-type (WT) mice. Lumbar spines from SPARC-null (n = 36) and WT (n = 18) mice aged 14–25 months were subjected to cyclic axial tension and compression to determine neutral zone (NZ) length and stiffness. Three separate mechanical tests were completed for each spine to determine the effect of the number of IVDs tested in series (one versus two versus three IVDs). SPARC-null spine NZs were both stiffer (p < 0.001) and smaller in length (p < 0.001) than WT spines. There was an effect of the number of IVDs tested in series for NZ length but not NZ stiffness when collapsed across condition (SPARC-null and WT). Correlation analysis revealed a weak negative correlation (r = −0.24) between age and NZ length in SPARC-null mice and a weak positive correlation (r = 0.30) between age and NZ stiffness in WT mice. In conclusion, SPARC-null mice had stiffer and smaller NZs than WT mice, regardless of the number of IVDs in series being tested. The increased stiffness of these IVDs likely influences mobility at these spinal joints thereby potentially contributing to low back pain.
Design and Validation of a Low-Cost Bodyweight Support System for Overground Walking
Authors: MacLean Mhairi K. , Ferris Daniel P.
Published: July 2020

Walking with bodyweight support is a vital tool for both gait rehabilitation and biomechanics research. There are few commercially available bodyweight support systems for overground walking that are able to provide a near constant lifting force of more than 50% bodyweight. The devices that do exist are expensive and are not often used outside of rehabilitation clinics. Our aim was to design, build, and validate a bodyweight support device for overground walking that: (1) cost less than $5000, (2) could support up to 75% of the users' bodyweight (BW), and (3) had small (±5% BW) fluctuations in force. We used pairs of constant force springs to provide the constant lifting force. To validate the force fluctuation, we recruited eight participants to walk at 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, and 1.6 m/s with 0%, 22%, 46%, and 69% of their bodyweight supported. We used a load cell to measure force through the system and motion capture data to create a vector of the supplied lifting force. The final prototype cost less than $4000 and was able to support 80% of the users' bodyweight. Fluctuations in vertical force increased with speed and bodyweight support, reaching a maximum of 10% at 1.6 m/s and 69% BW support.