bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ponzi scheme like investment schemes in India – causes, impact and solution
Authors: Bhadra Shubhasree , Singh Kamakhya Narain
Published: June 2023

Purpose

News items like “A whopping 2 lakh gullible investors were cheated…….” amply illustrate the extent of problems and hardships caused by financial frauds related to Ponzi schemes, collective investment schemes (CIS), unregulated deposit schemes, etc. In India, over the years, many Ponzi and unregulated investment schemes have taken place, causing huge economic and financial loss to Indian economy. This paper aims to examine why investment such schemes like Ponzi schemes and CIS become popular, how such schemes got operated in different periods and what could be done to safeguard the interests of investors.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is done based on secondary data and research work of various researchers, organisation and institutions, which are available in the public domain.

Findings

This paper has tried to analyse various characteristics of such fraudulent schemes, like their modus operandi, promotional activity, background of promoters and legal process involved in recouping financial loss of millions of investors. This paper also examines the demand-side factors that are responsible for popularity of those schemes in India. Noting the regulatory changes and other initiative taken by regulatory authorities to control the supply of unregulated investment schemes, this paper indicates potential actions, which could be undertaken to make people aware about the risks and issues related with such fraudulent schemes.

Originality/value

This paper gives an overview about various aspects of unregulated investment schemes, which have duped numerous people at different point of time. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research work is original and has not been published in any other journal.
The evaluation of menus’ adherence to sustainable nutrition and comparison with sustainable menu example in a Turkish university refectory
Authors: Saleki Neda , Kulaksiz Sevval Beyza , Arslan Fatma , Guney Coskun Merve
Published: June 2023

Purpose

It is very crucial to evaluate the suitability of food services from an environmental and economic point of view to design sustainable food menus. This study aims to analyse the food menus in a Turkish university refectory concerning sustainable nutrition and waste management and compare them with a proposed sustainable food menu.

Design/methodology/approach

The study examined lunch menus served in December and February 2021–2022 at Istanbul Medipol University refectory for a total of 20 days, considering the nutrient-rich food index (NRF 9.3), waste amount, food cost, water and carbon footprint parameters of the meals.

Findings

Comparing the December menu with the suggested sustainable December menu showed a significant reduction in carbon and water footprint (p = 0.001), food cost (p = 0.001) and NRF 9.3 score (p = 0.001). When February and the suggested sustainable February menu were compared, there was a significant decrease in carbon and water footprint (p = 0.001), food cost (p = 0.005) and NRF 9.3 score (p = 0.001). December and February menus had higher NRF 9.3 score compared to the sample sustainable menus, and the amounts of saturated fat, added sugar and sodium were also high in these menus.

Originality/value

The study revealed that university cafeteria menus are incompatible with sustainable nutrition. The findings can significantly contribute to improving the sustainability of meals and food services by minimizing the water and carbon footprint of menus.
Virtual reality in tourism: adoption scepticism and resistance
Authors: Cham Tat-Huei , Wei-Han Tan Garry , Aw Eugene Cheng-Xi , Ooi Keng-Boon , Jee Teck-Weng , Pek Chuen-Khee
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Since its inception, virtual reality (VR) technologies have been widely applied in the tourism industry, given their competitive advantages in offering users a novel experience that makes an artificial environment or scene feel like the real world. As a result, VR has been reported as a highly sought-after technology, as it can offer a new way to engage tourists and enhance their travel experience. However, the adoption of VR by senior tourists (who are one of the potential groups of tourists) is still relatively low in the tourism context. Against this backdrop, this study aims to respond to the deficiency in the literature by examining the impact of barriers that contribute to senior tourists’ resistance and scepticism towards VR in tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a cross-sectional approach, the data for this study was collected from 600 eligible senior tourists through survey questionnaires. To obtain valid and reliable responses, a purposive sampling technique with screening criteria was undertaken in this study. Upon data cleaning, the data analysis was performed on 546 samples using statistical software packages such as SPSS and the AMOS covariance-based structural equation modelling technique.

Findings

Grounded on the innovation resistance theory, the outcome of this study put forward the significance of technical and psychological barriers in explaining senior tourists’ resistance and scepticism towards the use of VR in tourism. In particular, perceived risk, perceived incompatibility, technology anxiety, inertia and a lack of human interaction were found to be associated with senior tourists’ scepticism and resistance towards VR usage in tourism. However, perceived complexity was not found to have a significant relationship with resistance. Moreover, both scepticism and resistance were reported to influence non-adoption intentions on VR.

Originality/value

This study is one of the few studies that examined the less explored territory of the tourism literature concerning the non-adoption of contemporary innovation (i.e. VR technology) for virtual tourism purposes. Moreover, this study also focuses on the perspective of senior tourists, which represents a promising market segment in the tourism sector. This study successfully contributed to the existing literature by offering empirical insights and highlighting the barriers that lead to users’ scepticism and resistance towards using VR for tourism, which could directly influence their non-adoption intention and the success of virtual tourism.
Phenotypic outcomes of predator–prey coevolution are predicted by landscape variation in climate and community composition
Authors: Gilbert Anthony L. , Cabrera Savanna , Hague Michael T. J. , Stokes Amber N. , Feldman Chris R. , Hanifin Charles T. , Brodie Edmund D. , Brodie Edmund D.
Published: June 2023

Landscape patterns of phenotypic coevolution are determined by variation in the outcome of predator–prey interactions. These outcomes may depend not only on the functional phenotypes that mediate species interactions, but also on aspects of the environment that enable encounters between coevolutionary partners.

Exploring the relationship between coevolutionary traits and the environment requires extensive sampling across the range of the interaction to determine the relationship between local ecological variation and coevolution.

In this study, we synthesized >30 years of data on predator–prey interactions between toxic newts (Taricha granulosa) and their snake predators (Thamnophis sirtalis) to explore the environmental predictors of arms race escalation.

We found that geographic variation in phenotypes at the interface of coevolution was best predicted by a combination of community and climatic variation. Coevolutionary phenotypes were greatest in environments with climate favourable for newt–snake overlap. We found prey toxicity was elevated in regions with more predator species, and predator resistance was higher in regions with more prey species.

Our results suggest specific environmental conditions reinforce the process of coevolution, signifying the phenotypic outcomes of coevolutionary arms races are sensitive to local ecological contexts that vary across the landscape.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Sharing biological information across generations: Parallels between indigenous knowledge and genetics for fisheries recovery in the Columbia River Basin
Authors: FiveCrows Jeremy , DeCoteau Aja , Hess Jon , Hatch Doug , Narum Shawn
Published: June 2023

Indigenous tribes of the interior Columbia River have developed a mutual relationship with native fishes since time immemorial. However, extensive disruption to the natural ecosystem has occurred as European settlement of North America extended westward to utilize abundant natural resources in ways that conflicted with millennia of indigenous protection. This anthropogenic disturbance has led to dramatic declines in native fish species that are central to tribal cultures, but efforts are underway to enable these fishes and the people that rely upon them to persist for future generations. Here, we describe how pairing indigenous knowledge and western science have been applied to assist with fisheries recovery in the Columbia River. Parallel understanding of information passed across generations is central to this effort, from tribal elders with their historical grasp of the natural ecosystem and fisheries, to molecular genetic approaches that track DNA that is passed from parents to offspring and subsequent generations. Examples are provided that illustrate how both indigenous knowledge and genetic tools have been applied to support fisheries recovery in the Columbia River Basin.
Dynamic monitoring of circulating tumor DNA to analyze genetic characteristics and resistance profile of lorlatinib in ALK positive previously treated NSCLC
Authors: Ma Xiya , Zhang Kun , Xu Jing , Gao Hongjun , Yang Shaoxing , Qin Haifeng , Wang Hong , Gao Fang , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: June 2023

Background

To dynamically monitor the changes of genomic characteristics during lorlatinib treatment and analyze the resistance profile of lorlatinib in ALK‐positive advanced Chinese patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with first‐ and second‐generation ALK inhibitor resistance.

Methods

Ten eligible patients who were from a phase 2 study in China and admitted to the Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital were analyzed. Blood samples were collected for next‐generation sequencing (NGS) to characterize genetic variation at baseline, during treatment, and after disease progression.

Results

Among the 10 patients treated with lorlatinib, objective response rate (ORR) was 50%. The median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 13.3 months, and median overall survival (OS) was 15.6 months. At baseline, the mutation frequency of ALK in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) was higher in the group who received two lines of previous anaplastic lymphoma kinase‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors (ALK‐TKIs), and a similar trend was observed for TP53. After one follow‐up cycle, the decreased variant allele frequency (VAF) had a trend to be predictive for responses. In six patients in which blood samples had been taken after lorlatinib resistance, ALK compound mutations were found in three patients (50%), which were G1202R/L1196M, L1196M/D1203N, and G1202R/F1174C. The DNMT3A N403Tfs*4, ERCC3 E259D, and GNAS p.A436_P459del variants were only detected after progression in two of the other three patients without ALK compound mutations.

Conclusions

The dynamic changes of genomic characteristics during lorlatinib treatment revealed the mutation landscape of Chinese patients with NSCLC after ALK‐TKI resistance, indicated that the resistance profile of lorlatinib were heterogeneous, which laid the foundation for subsequent treatment to overcome lorlatinib resistance.
Geroscience and climate science: Oppositional or complementary?
Authors: Farrelly Colin
Published: June 2023

Two of this century's most significant public health challenges are climate change and healthy aging. The future of humanity will be both warmer and older than it is today. Is it socially responsible, in a warming planet of a population exceeding 8 billion people, for science to aspire to develop gerotherapeutic drugs that aim to reduce the burden of aging‐related diseases that may also increase lifespan? This question is the “elephant in the room” for geroscience advocacy. Science communication concerning what constitutes empirically valid and morally defensible ways of navigating the dual public health predicaments of climate change and healthy aging must be sensitive to both the interdependence of the environment (including planetary health) and the mechanisms of aging, as well as the common (mis)perceptions about the potential conflict between the goals of climate science and geroscience. Geroscience advocacy can transcend narratives of intergenerational conflict by highlighting the shared aspirations of climate science and geroscience, such as the goals of promoting health across the lifespan, redressing health disparities, and improving the economic prospects of current and future generations.
Changes in floristic composition, diversity and anthropogenic perturbations in an east African tropical forest
Authors: Bitariho Robert , Babaasa Dennis , Byaruhanga Achilles
Published: June 2023

We assessed changes in floristic composition, diversity and anthropogenic activities in an East African forest; Echuya Central Forest Reserve (ECFR). Using 272 permanent sample plots, comparisons between 2015 and 2021 were made. Twenty‐two tree species were recorded with Macaranga capensis being the most dominant. Tree species density increased significantly from 152 stems/ha in 2015 to 306 stems/ha in 2021. Similarly, trees basal area increased significantly from 19 m2/ha in 2015 to 38 m2/ha in 2021. The bamboo stem density decreased significantly from 11,931 stems/ha in 2015 to 1807 stems/ha in 2021. Shrubs, lianas, vines and herbs' densities did not show significant differences between 2015 and 2021. Furthermore, a number of human activities significantly increased from 22 activities per hectare in 2015 to 83 per hectare in 2021. The Non‐Metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) ordination shows that the human activities with the strongest impact on tree species composition and basal areas were fuelwood collection, human trails, livestock grazing and pole cutting. In conclusion, ECFR is floristically poor; secondary forest tree species are replacing the bamboo forest and human activities could be negatively affecting the ECFR flora. We recommend interventions of increasing people's livelihood incomes to decrease their dependence on forest resources.
Procedure‐based assessment implementation in colorectal surgery: a scoping review
Authors: Naseem Zainab , Hong Jonathan , Young Christopher J.
Published: June 2023

Background

Competency‐based training (CBT) programs use procedure‐based assessments (PBAs) to evaluate trainees' abilities to perform specific procedures in clinical settings, similar to Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs). PBAs help determine trainees' readiness for advanced training levels. However, there is limited evidence on implementing colorectal‐specific PBAs in surgical training schemes. This review aims to identify observed and perceived challenges to implementing PBAs in workplace settings.

Methods

A scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute Protocol for Scoping Reviews (JBI‐ScR) was conducted. Eligible studies provided evidence on the implementation, feasibility, and challenges of PBAs in colorectal surgery, including various study designs from retrospective to prospective.

Results

Of the 80 screened studies, 75 were excluded based on exclusion criteria. Most of the included studies were conducted in national training institutions in the United Kingdom, assessing 778 colorectal procedures with specific PBAs. The main facilitators of implementing PBAs were structured assessments, focused assessors' training, and electronic forms usage.

Conclusion

This review offers insight into the practicality and feasibility of implementing PBAs in colorectal surgery. Identified challenges include the need for adequate assessor training and the time‐consuming nature of the assessment. These findings could improve PBA implementation in colorectal surgery and enhance surgical education quality. However, the limited number of studies and existing literature heterogeneity call for more research to identify other gaps.
Deprescribing Tool for Older PeoPle with Limited‐life Expectancy (De‐TOPPLE) version 1: Development and validation using a modified Delphi technique
Authors: Shrestha Shakti , Poudel Arjun , Steadman Kathryn J. , Nissen Lisa M.
Published: June 2023

Deprescribing decision making in older adults with limited life expectancy is often challenging for clinicians. We aimed to develop and validate a Deprescribing Tool for Older People with Limited‐life Expectancy (De‐TOPPLE). Modified Delphi technique was used to gain experts' consensus on the tool and further develop using their feedback. Experts [Round‐1 (n = 13), Round‐2 (n = 7)] had clinical and/or research background on geriatric medicine, geriatrics, family medicine or pharmacotherapy. Round‐1 consensus was achieved on approach taken by the tool to evaluate risk and benefit; distinguishing medications as preventive, symptom control or dual–purpose; referring to established deprescribing process; stepwise approach to deprescribing; and the overall concept. Common feedback was to reflect upon harm‐benefit analysis, distinguish medication types earlier, qualify adverse events, use time‐to‐benefit (TTB), prioritise symptom relief, monitor post‐deprescribing, include shared decision making and define terms for clinical familiarisation. After tool update, Round‐2 consensus was achieved on usability in clinical setting, flexibility of implicit judgement, ceasing preventive medication with inadequate TTB, ceasing symptom control medication with inadequate symptom relief, ceasing dual‐purpose medication (DPM) with inadequate TTB and symptom relief, and continuing DPM with adequate TTB and symptom relief. De‐TOPPLE version 1 was developed and validated through two rounds of the Delphi process. Clinical use of the tool needs final validation following the addition of contextual statements to the tool.
Best fit formula approach in delayed sequential bilateral cataract surgery
Authors: Röggla Veronika , Langenbucher Achim , Leydolt Christina , Schartmüller Daniel , Schwarzenbacher Luca , Hoffmann Peter , Menapace Rupert
Published: June 2023

Background

We evaluated whether the best‐fit intraocular lens (IOL) power formula for the first operated eye (BF1) was also the most accurate formula for the second eye.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 152 patients who underwent uncomplicated delayed bilateral cataract surgery with a minimum delay of 3 weeks using only one 1‐piece IOL (HOYA, Vivinex) at the Medical University of Vienna, Austria. Seven different formulae (Barrett Universal II, Castrop, Haigis, Hoffer Q, Holladay 1, Kane, and SRK/T) were investigated to test the formula selection approach with regard to the calculated mean and median absolute prediction errors (MAE/MedAE).

Results

The mean intraindividual difference in axial length was 0.2 mm (±0.3 mm). BF1 coincided with the best‐fit formula for the second eye (BF2) in 56% of patients (p < 0.05). Using BF1 for the second eye led to a lower MedAE (0.22 dioptre, D) than using a formula at random (0.33 D) and was less accurate than using the best‐fit formula for each eye separately (0.1 D). The MedAEs of all formulae were generally low, ranging from 0.28 to 0.35 D.

Conclusion

Using BF1 for the second eye led to a lower MedAE than the random selection of a formula. Therefore, BF1 can be used for the second eye if the surgeon is unsure of the choice of formula.
Diagnostic accuracy of water‐soluble contrast enema, contrast‐enema computed tomography and endoscopy in detecting anastomotic leakage after (Colo) proctectomy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Chierici Andrea , Granieri Stefano , Frontali Alice
Published: June 2023

Background

Anastomotic leakage (AL) as a result of creation of a colorectal/anal anastomosis still represents a frequent complication of colorectal surgery, with short‐ and long‐term consequences on postoperative morbidity, quality of life and oncological outcomes. However, early diagnosis of AL may result in improved outcomes. The aims of this study were to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of water‐soluble contrast enema (WSCE), contrast enema computed tomography (CECT) and endoscopy in identifying AL and to identify the diagnostic procedure that is most accurate.

Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of 19 studies accounting for a total of 25 tests reporting diagnostic accuracy estimates was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses of Diagnostic Test Accuracy Studies (PRISMA‐DTA) guidelines up to June 2021. For the diagnostic tests we evaluated the pooled estimates and conducted pairwise comparisons.

Results

For WSCE, the pooled sensitivity was 0.50, the pooled specificity was 0.99 and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.91. For endoscopy, the pooled sensitivity was 0.69, specificity was 1.00 and AUC was 0.99. The pooled sensitivity and specificity for CECT were 0.89 and 1.00, respectively; the AUC was 0.99. The comparison between CECT and WSCE highlighted a significantly greater sensitivity (p = 0.04) for CECT, whereas no difference was found for specificity. Compared with CECT, endoscopy was not significantly more accurate in terms of either sensitivity or specificity. Endoscopy was found to be significantly more specific than WSCE (p = 0.031) but no difference was found for sensitivity.

Conclusion

Water‐soluble contrast enema, endoscopy and CECT have an elevated diagnostic accuracy. However, WSCE is less accurate than either endoscopy or CECT. Although greater sensitivity was demonstrated for CECT compared with endoscopy, this was not significant.
Impact of sociodemographic disadvantage on neurobehavioral outcomes in children with newly diagnosed seizures and their unaffected siblings over 36 months
Authors: Oyegbile‐Chidi Temitayo , Harvey Danielle , Jones Jana , Byars Anna , Austin Joan , Hermann Bruce , Dunn David
Published: June 2023

Objective

This study was undertaken to determine the short‐term and longer term impact of sociodemographic disadvantage on the emotional–behavioral status of youths with new onset epilepsy and their unaffected siblings at the time of diagnosis and the subsequent 3 years.

Methods

Three hundred twelve youths with newly diagnosed epilepsies and 223 unaffected siblings, aged 6–16 years, were independently assessed regarding their emotional and behavioral status by their parents and teachers at baseline, and at 18 at 36 months later; youths with seizures also completed self‐report measures of depression, anxiety, and hostility at those three time points. A sociodemographic disadvantage score was computed for each family (children with newly diagnosed seizures and their siblings), and families were separated into four categories from most disadvantaged to least disadvantaged.

Results

In both children and siblings, the least disadvantaged group exhibited the lowest level of neurobehavioral problems, whereas the most disadvantaged group showed a higher level of neurobehavioral problems across all the same behavior metrics. Findings remained stable and significant across all informants (parent, teacher, child) and across all time periods (throughout the 3‐year period). Furthermore, both corrected and uncorrected linear regression analyses indicated that disadvantage was a more constant and stable predictor of behavioral and emotional problems over time compared to clinical seizure characteristics and abnormalities in magnetic resonance imaging and electroencephalographic testing.

Significance

Sociodemographic disadvantage bears a strong relationship to youths with emotional and behavioral problems both at the time of diagnosis as well as prospectively. The relationship is robust and reflected in reports from multiple informants (parent, teacher, child self‐report), evident in siblings as well, and possibly more explanatory than traditional clinical seizure variables. Future studies will be needed to determine whether this disadvantage factor is modifiable with early intervention.
The crosstalk between PTEN‐induced kinase 1‐mediated mitophagy and the inflammasome in the pathogenesis of alopecia areata
Authors: Shin Jung‐Min , Kim Kyung Min , Choi Mi Soo , Park Sanghyun , Hong Dongkyun , Jung Kyung‐Eun , Seo Young‐Joon , Kim Chang Deok , Yang Hanseul , Lee Young
Published: June 2023

Alopecia areata (AA) is a T‐cell‐mediated autoimmune disease that causes chronic, relapsing hair loss; however, its precise pathogenesis remains to be elucidated. Recent studies have provided compelling evidence of crosstalk between inflammasomes and mitophagy—a process that contributes to the removal of damaged mitochondria. Our previous studies showed that the NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is important for eliciting and progressing inflammation in AA. In this study, we detected mitochondrial DNA damage in AA‐affected scalp tissues and IFNγ and poly(I:C) treated outer root sheath (ORS) cells. In addition, IFNγ and poly(I:C) treatment increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in ORS cells. Moreover, we showed that mitophagy induction alleviates IFNγ and poly(I:C)‐induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation in ORS cells. Lastly, PTEN‐induced kinase 1 (PINK1) knockdown increased NLRP3 inflammasome activation, indicating that PINK1‐mediated mitophagy plays a critical role in NLRP3 inflammasome activation in ORS cells. This study supports previous studies showing that oxidative stress disrupts immune privilege status and promotes autoimmunity in AA. The results emphasize the significance of crosstalk between mitophagy and inflammasomes in the pathogenesis of AA. Finally, mitophagy factors regulating mitochondrial dysfunction and inhibiting inflammasome activation could be novel therapeutic targets for AA.
A robust sliding window adaptive filtering technique for phonocardiogram signal denoising
Authors: Shervegar Vishwanath Madhava
Published: June 2023

Objective

The digital sound recording of several heart sounds (HSs) is named phonocardiogram (PCG) signal. Analysing these PCG signals is essential for diagnosing diverse sorts of heart disorders. Nevertheless, owing to troubling surrounding noise signals, PCG signal recording is challenging. So, before utilising PCG for advanced processing, de‐noising the PCG signal is executed. A new sliding window adaptive noise cancellers (SWANC)‐centred filter technique is proposed in this paper for de‐noising along with recovering the PCG signal effectively.

Method

Utilising the least mean square (LMS), an SW optimum adaptive filter (AF) structure is introduced in this work for estimating a De‐noised signal (DS) with better accuracy. Here, via the SWAF stage, a noisy signal is processed. An SW of fixed duration slides over the signal; also, the signal is filtered utilising the AF in each window. Utilising this SWAF architecture, this method approximates the PCG signal's clean version with better accuracy.

Results

The proposed robust SWAF is analogized to experimental PCG signals that were corrupted by Gaussian noise (GN) together with pink noise (PN) with distinct noise levels (NLs). From the physionet database, the experiential data are acquired. The outcomes exhibited that a remarkable performance was attained by the robust SWAF model.

Discussion

A 2–10 times decrease in MSE values was attained by the proposed filter structure when analogized with conventional LMS filter configuration. Further, the SNR is improved by 3 times and comparatively, the PSNR enhancement was 4%–25%. The association betwixt the clean signal along with its estimate is greater than 0.92.

Conclusion

A cost‐efficient hardware installation of ANC with higher accuracy was offered by the SW LMS AF model. For obtaining desired convergence speed and accuracy, such models are tested for real‐time performances in the future.
“Sorry, that's all I know!”: A study on web‐based pragmatic instruction for novice learners
Authors: Kerber Noelle , Shea Jacqueline , Tecedor Marta
Published: June 2023

This study examines the impact of instructor‐led (IL) versus self‐access (SA) web‐based pragmatic instruction on novice second language learners' (n = 28) awareness and oral production of Spanish apologies. Two sections of a second‐semester Spanish course were assigned to either the IL or the SA group. The web‐based resourceDancing with Wordswas used to provide pragmatic instruction. Participants in the SA group worked through the materials individually, and participants in the IL group received support and guidance from the instructor. A quasi‐experimental, pre‐/posttest design was used to measure participants' pragmatic competence (i.e., awareness and production skills) before and after a 5‐week intervention period. Results indicate three major findings: (1) learners follow developmental trajectories similar to those identified in study abroad, (2) instructor guidance is important for novice learners' development of pragmatic competence, and (3) special consideration should be given to instructional materials to ensure they align with the instructional context and goals.
Interaction matters: Bottom‐up driver interdependencies alter the projected response of phytoplankton communities to climate change
Authors: Seifert Miriam , Nissen Cara , Rost Björn , Vogt Meike , Völker Christoph , Hauck Judith
Published: June 2023

Phytoplankton growth is controlled by multiple environmental drivers, which are all modified by climate change. While numerous experimental studies identify interactive effects between drivers, large‐scale ocean biogeochemistry models mostly account for growth responses to each driver separately and leave the results of these experimental multiple‐driver studies largely unused. Here, we amend phytoplankton growth functions in a biogeochemical model by dual‐driver interactions (CO2 and temperature, CO2 and light), based on data of a published meta‐analysis on multiple‐driver laboratory experiments. The effect of this parametrization on phytoplankton biomass and community composition is tested using present‐day and future high‐emission (SSP5‐8.5) climate forcing. While the projected decrease in future total global phytoplankton biomass in simulations with driver interactions is similar to that in control simulations without driver interactions (5%–6%), interactive driver effects are group‐specific. Globally, diatom biomass decreases more with interactive effects compared with the control simulation (−8.1% with interactions vs. no change without interactions). Small‐phytoplankton biomass, by contrast, decreases less with on‐going climate change when the model accounts for driver interactions (−5.0% vs. −9.0%). The response of global coccolithophore biomass to future climate conditions is even reversed when interactions are considered (+33.2% instead of −10.8%). Regionally, the largest difference in the future phytoplankton community composition between the simulations with and without driver interactions is detected in the Southern Ocean, where diatom biomass decreases (−7.5%) instead of increases (+14.5%), raising the share of small phytoplankton and coccolithophores of total phytoplankton biomass. Hence, interactive effects impact the phytoplankton community structure and related biogeochemical fluxes in a future ocean. Our approach is a first step to integrate the mechanistic understanding of interacting driver effects on phytoplankton growth gained by numerous laboratory experiments into a global ocean biogeochemistry model, aiming toward more realistic future projections of phytoplankton biomass and community composition.
Different nitrogen saturation thresholds for above‐, below‐, and total net primary productivity in a temperate steppe
Authors: Yang Guo‐Jiao , Stevens Carly , Zhang Zi‐Jia , Lü Xiao‐Tao , Han Xing‐Guo
Published: June 2023

Identifying the thresholds for the positive responses of total net primary productivity (NPP) to nitrogen (N) enrichment is an essential prerequisite for predicting the benefits of N deposition on ecosystem carbon sequestration. However, the responses of below‐ground NPP (BNPP) to N enrichment are unknown in many ecosystems, which limits our ability to understand the carbon cycling under the scenario of increasing N availability. We examined the changes in above‐ground NPP (ANPP), BNPP, and NPP of a temperate meadow steppe across a wide‐ranging N addition gradient (0, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 g N m−2 year−1) during 5 years. Both ANPP and NPP increased nonlinearly with N addition rates. The N saturation threshold for ANPP (TA) and NPP (TN) was at the rate of 13.11 and 6.70 g N m−2 year−1, respectively. BNPP decreased with increasing N addition when N addition rates ˃5 g N m−2 year−1, resulting in much lower TN than TA. Soil N enrichment played a key role in driving the negative impacts of high N addition rates on BNPP, and consequently on the earlier occurrence of N saturation threshold for NPP. Our results highlight the negative effects of soil N enrichment on NPP in natural grasslands super‐saturated with N. Furthermore, by considering ANPP and BNPP simultaneously, our results indicate that previous findings from above‐ground might have over‐estimated the positive effects of N deposition on primary productivity.
Integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion principles into instruction: Case studies from the University of Florida's Health Science Center Libraries
Authors: Morgan‐Daniel Jane , Norton Hannah F. , Edwards Mary , Adkins Lauren
Published: June 2023

Librarians at the University of Florida Health Science Center Libraries have begun to intentionally incorporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles into teaching during design, implementation, and evaluation. This article uses four case studies to provide an overview of the librarians' approaches to inclusive teaching (1) an annual workshop for Physical Therapy students on the intersection between DEI, health literacy, and patient education; (2) a librarian‐taught one‐credit course for public health students, which was revised to create a more inviting syllabus and integrate elements of universal design; (3) an annual project for first year medical students highlighting health disparities and community resources; and (4) piloting the application of critical librarianship principles in library standalone sessions on database searching and reference management. Suggestions are provided for other librarians who are interested in developing a culture of inclusive teaching in their own libraries.
Resistant starch content of dual modification autoclaving‐cooling and pullulanase debranching on various carbohydrate sources: a systematic review
Authors: Oktaviani Sulha Rahmi , Faridah Didah Nur , Wulandari Nur , Afandi Frendy Ahmad , Jayanegara Anuraga
Published: June 2023

Resistant starch has a low glycaemic index and is commonly used in functional food development. Resistant starch type III can be produced through the combination of enzymatic debranching and the hot and cold cycle method, which is known as autoclaving‐cooling. The study showed that the dual modification of autoclaving‐cooling and pullulanase debranching can increase the resistant starch content, but it also depends on the carbohydrate source and the condition during the modification process. The study aims to determine the effects of pullulanase debranching and autoclaving‐cooling on resistant starch levels through a systematic review approach and produced 17 studies with 124 data. This dual‐modification study showed that 93.5% of data experienced in resistant starch increase while 6.5% experienced a decrease in resistant starch. The factors that should be considered were cooling/heating temperature and cooling/heating time, the number of cycles, the modification process sequence and enzyme concentration as well as temperature and hydrolysis time. Pullulanase debranching and autoclaving‐cooling dual modification with the highest resistant starch content was found on the chestnut starch sample (64.60%) with autoclave heating process (120 °C, 30 min), followed by debranching process (9 U/g, 50 °C, 10 h) and stored at 4 °C for 24 h.
Identification and characterisation of PRXamide peptides in the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis
Authors: Yun Seung‐Hwan , Jang Hyo Sang , Ahn Seung‐Joon , Price Briana E. , Hasegawa Daniel K. , Choi Man‐Yeon
Published: June 2023

Insect CAPA‐PVK (periviscerokinin) and pyrokinin (PK) neuropeptides belong to the PRX family peptides and are produced from capa and pyrokinin genes. We identified and characterised the two genes from the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis. The capa gene transcribes three splice variants, capa‐a, ‐b, and ‐c, encoding two CAPA‐PVKs (EVQGLFPFPRVamide; QGLIPFPRVamide) and two PKs (ASWMPSSSPRLamide; DSASFTPRLamide). The pyrokinin mRNA encodes three PKs: DLVTQVLQPGQTGMWFGPRLamide, SEGNLVNFTPRLamide, and ESGEQPEDLEGSMGGAATSRQLRTDSEPTWGFSPRLamide, the most extended pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide (PBAN) ortholog in insects. Multiple potential endoproteolytic cleavage sites were presented in the prepropeptides from the pyrokinin gene, creating ambiguity to predict mature peptides. To solve this difficulty, we used three G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) for CAPA‐PVK, tryptophan PK (trpPK), and PK peptides, and evaluated the binding affinities of the peptides. The binding activities revealed each subfamily of peptides exclusively bind to their corresponding receptors, and were significant for determining the CAPA‐PVK and PK peptides. Our biological method using specific GPCRs would be a valuable tool for determining mature peptides, particularly with multiple and ambiguous cleavage sites in those prepropeptides. Both capa and pyrokinin mRNAs were strongly expressed in the head/thorax, but minimally expressed in the abdomen. The two genes also were clearly expressed during most of the life stages. Whole‐mounting immunocytochemistry revealed that neurons contained PRXamide peptides throughout the whole‐body: four to six neurosecretory cells in the head, and three and seven pairs of immunostained cells in the thorax and abdomen, respectively. Notably, the unusual PRXamide profiles of Thysanoptera are different from the other insect groups.
Study of CO2 permeation in Zn2+‐modified Al2O3‐carbonate membrane
Authors: Qu Liu , Papaioannou Evangelos I.
Published: June 2023

Molten carbonate‐based membranes for CO2 capture have received attentions because of their high CO2 selectivity, potential energy‐saving capability and environmental friendliness. Zn2+‐modified Al2O3/carbonates membranes with the enhanced CO2 permeability have been developed in this work. Interfaces of LiAlO2 were formed on the surface of Al2O3 due to the carbonates incorporation. Microstructural and interfacial characterisation of the membrane revealed that the outermost LiAlO2 layer was due to the reactions between Li2CO3 and ZnAl2O4, resulting in the dissolution of ZnO in the molten carbonate. CO2 permeability of 0.5% ZnAl2O4/Al2O3/carbonates reached 9.12 × 10−12 mol.m−1s−1 Pa−1 at 700°C, higher than that of Al2O3/carbonates, because of the dissolved ZnO. With the increase of ZnAl2O4, CO2 permeability was decreased. The dissolved ZnO in the molten carbonates could enhance the ionic conductivity, whereas a higher amount of ZnO than its solubility will attenuate its effects on CO2 permeation.
Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound studies registered on ClinicalTrials.gov: A cross‐sectional analysis of characteristics, early discontinuation, and reporting results
Authors: Bao Wuyongga , Long Youlin , Huang Jiayan , Liao Min , Yang Jie , Du Liang , Lu Qiang
Published: June 2023

Objective

Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound offers numerous potential applications in diagnostic and interventional radiology. However, systematic studies on the status of clinical studies are limited. Hence, the aim of this study was to analyze the characteristics of registered contrast‐enhanced ultrasound studies on ClinicalTrials.gov and identify features associated with early discontinuation and results reporting.

Methods

A data set containing all contrast‐enhanced ultrasound clinical studies from ClinicalTrials.gov registered was downloaded. Then, a cross‐sectional descriptive study of clinical contrast‐enhanced ultrasound studies was conducted. Cox and logistic regression of early discontinuation and reported results, respectively, were also performed.

Results

A total of 225 studies were identified; 174 were interventional and 51 were observational. Regarding the outcomes measure, 175 (77.78%) were diagnosis‐oriented, and the remaining 50 (22.22%) were interventional radiology studies. The most common regions of interest were abdominal (56%), superficial (14.22%), or vascular (7.11%) organs. As of the contrast agents, SonoVue/Lumason (39.11%) was most frequently used, followed by Definity (20.89%) and Sonazoid (8.89%). Of all contrast‐enhanced ultrasound studies, 32 (14.22%) were discontinued early, and 29 (12.89%) completed studies reported their results. Cox regression analysis revealed that a large sample size and US registration were factors reducing early discontinuation risk. Among completed studies, factors associated with reported results were industry funding and US registration.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that the number of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound studies has grown over time, but is still small. Developing new advancements in contrast‐enhanced ultrasound will require a concerted effort to increase the quality and quantity of clinical studies in this field.
The Bahamas at risk: Material stocks, sea‐level rise, and the implications for development
Authors: Martin del Campo Francisco , Singh Simron Jit , Fishman Tomer , Thomas Adelle , Drescher Michael
Published: June 2023

Recent research suggests that over 75% of resources extracted globally now go toward creating, maintaining, or operating material stocks (MS) to provide societal services like housing, transport, education, and health. However, the integrity of current and future built environments, and the capacity of the system to continue providing services, are threatened by extreme events and sea‐level rise (SLR). This is especially significant for the most disaster‐prone countries in the world: Small Island Developing States. In the aftermath of disasters, complex rebuilding efforts require substantial material and economic resources, oftentimes incurring massive debt. Understanding the composition and dynamics of MS and environmental threats is essential for current and future sustainable development. Drawing on open‐source OpenStreetMap (OSM) data, we conducted a spatially explicit material stock analysis (MSA) for The Bahamas for 2021, where we included buildings and transport MS, and SLR exposure scenarios. Total MS was estimated at 76 million tonnes (Mt) or 191 tonnes per capita (t/cap) of which transport comprises 43%. These MS are likely to increase by 36 Mt in the future. Simulations show that under 1‐, 2‐, or 3‐m SLR scenarios, around 4, 6, and 9 Mt of current MS will be exposed, with transport MS at greatest risk, with over 80% of total exposure in each scenario. Our findings highlight the critical role that key MS play in sustainability and resilience, contributing to the emphasis on effective development planning and climate change adaptation strategies, and to the exploration of the use of OSM data for studying these objectives.
Effects of bile duct ligation on the inhibitory control of supraoptic vasopressin neurons
Authors: Aikins Ato O. , Farmer George E. , Little Joel T. , Cunningham J. Thomas
Published: June 2023

Dilutional hyponatremia due to increased plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) is associated with liver cirrhosis. However, plasma AVP remains elevated despite progressive hypoosmolality. This study investigated changes to inhibitory control of supraoptic nucleus (SON) AVP neurons during liver cirrhosis. Experiments were conducted with adult male Sprague–Dawley rats. Bile duct ligation was used as a model of chronic liver cirrhosis. An adeno‐associated virus containing a construct with an AVP promoter and either green fluorescent protein (GFP) or a ratiometric chloride indicator, ClopHensorN, was bilaterally injected into the SON of rats. After 2 weeks, rats received either BDL or sham surgery, and liver cirrhosis was allowed to develop for 4 weeks. In vitro, loose patch recordings of action potentials were obtained from GFP‐labeled and unlabeled SON neurons in response to a brief focal application of the GABAA agonist muscimol (100 μM). Changes to intracellular chloride ([Cl]i) following muscimol application were determined by changes to the fluorescence ratio of ClopHensorN. The contribution of cation chloride cotransporters NKCC1 and KCC2 to changes in intracellular chloride was investigated using their respective antagonists, bumetanide (BU, 10 μM) and VU0240551 (10 μM). Plasma osmolality and hematocrit were measured as a marker of dilutional hyponatremia. The results showed reduced or absent GABAA‐mediated inhibition in a greater proportion of AVP neurons from BDL rats as compared to sham rats (100% inhibition in sham vs. 47% in BDL, p = .001). Muscimol application was associated with increased [Cl]i in most cells from BDL as compared to cells from sham rats (χ2 = 30.24, p < .001). NKCC1 contributed to the impaired inhibition observed in BDL rats (p < .001 BDL − BU vs. BDL + BU). The results show that impaired inhibition of SON AVP neurons and increased intracellular chloride contribute to the sustained dilutional hyponatremia in liver cirrhosis.
In vitro, ex vivo, and clinical evaluation of anti‐aging gel containing EPA and CBD
Authors: Cohen Guy , Jakus Jeannette , Portillo Mauricio , Gvirtz Raanan , Ogen‐Shtern Navit , Silberstein Eldad , Ayzenberg Tomer , Rozenblat Sharon
Published: June 2023

Background

Skin aging manifestation, such as coarse wrinkles, loss of elasticity, pigmentation, and rough‐textured appearance, is a multifactorial process that can be exacerbated by air pollution, smoking, poor nutrition, and sun exposure. Exposure to UV radiation is considered the primary cause of extrinsic skin aging and accounts for about 80% of facial aging. Extrinsic skin aging signs can be reduced with demo‐cosmetic formulations. Both cannabidiol (CBD) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) have been previously suggested as potent active dermatological ingredients.

Aims

The objective of the current research was to evaluate the compatibility of both agents in the prevention and treatment of skin aging. First, the impact of both agents was assessed using standard photoaging models of UV‐induced damage, both in vitro (HaCaT cells) and ex vivo (human skin organ culture). Then, a clinical validation study (n = 33) was performed using an optimized topical cream formulation tested at different time points (up to Day 56).

Results

EPA was found to potentiate the protective effects of CBD by reducing the secretion of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and interleukin‐8 (IL‐8), two primary inflammatory agents associated with photoaging. In addition, a qualitative histological examination signaled that applying the cream may result in an increase in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling following UV radiation. This was also evidenced clinically by a reduction of crow's feet wrinkle area and volume, as well as a reduction of fine line wrinkle volume as measured by the AEVA system. The well‐established age‐dependent subepidermal low‐echogenic band (SLEB) was also reduced by 8.8%. Additional clinical results showed significantly reduced red spots area and count, and an increase in skin hydration and elasticity by 31.2% and 25.6% following 56 days of cream application, respectively. These impressive clinical results correlated with high satisfaction ratings by the study participants.

Discussion and Conclusions

Collectively, the results show a profound anti‐aging impact of the developed formulation and strengthen the beneficial derm‐cosmetic properties of CBD‐based products.