bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life under lockdown for children with autism spectrum disorder: Insights from families in South Africa
Authors: Adams Skye Nandi , Seedat Jaishika , Neille Joanne
Published: March 2022

Background

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) remain vulnerable during the Covid‐19 outbreak due to significant changes to their daily routines, social interactions and diets. In addition, these challenges may be exacerbated for children living in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC) such as South Africa where there are already barriers such as poverty, access to resources and availability of support. Understanding the impact of the Covid‐19 outbreak on children with ASD is imperative in order to create awareness as well as provide equitable services and support to both children with ASD and their families.

Purpose

The study aimed to explore family‐reported changes for children with ASD and their reactions and responses to the Covid‐19 restrictions in South Africa.

Method

A qualitative research design was employed. Twelve families consisting of different family compositions with a total of 21 family members (mothers, fathers and grandmothers) participated in the current study using semistructured interviews. Data were transcribed and analysed using a framework method for thematic analysis.

Results

Findings indicated that children with ASD present with unique challenges related to Covid‐19. Negative themes such as children's obstructive reactions due to the immediate changes to their routines, increases in emotional dysregulation as well as loss of previously acquired skills as a result of lack of access to services during lockdown were reported. However, families also reported on positive changes such as improved social interactions as children became more accustomed to their new lockdown routines.

Implications

The Covid‐19 response has had a negative impact on children with disabilities, specifically around access to services and support for both children with ASD and their families. While the future of the virus and impending lockdown measures is unknown, clinicians, providers and educators need to ensure that provisions are made for children's current adjustments as well as further adjustments to their current routines both during and after the pandemic.
Assessment of pupal mortality in Hypena opulenta: An obstacle for establishment of a classical biological control agent against invasive swallow‐worts
Authors: Jones Ian M. , Smith Sandy M. , Bourchier Robert S.
Published: March 2022

Common obstacles for establishment of newly‐introduced biological control agents include climate and the activity of native antagonists. In temperate climates, these obstacles can disproportionately affect overwintering life‐stages because they are exposed to low winter temperatures, and may rely on passive defence from predators.

We conducted a series of field exposure experiments with predator‐exclusion treatments, in Ontario, Canada, to identify mortality factors for the pupae of Hypena opulenta, a biological control agent for invasive swallow‐worts in North America.

During two winters, predation rates in containers with large holes, that enabled predation, were relatively low (mean: 23.75%) but non‐predation mortality in closed containers was high (mean: 66.25%), particularly during the colder of the two winters (87.5% vs. 52.5%).

During the summer, non‐predation mortality in closed containers was low (mean: 7.5%) but predation rates in containers with large holes were higher than during the winter (mean: 53.33%), increasing as the summer progressed. Predation in containers with large holes was 70% during late summer, compared with 25% during the spring.

Across all seasons, pupal predation was dominated by large non‐arthropod predators.

Hypena opulenta can complete 2 generations per year. Photoperiods that induce diapause occur earlier in the introduced range than in the native range, however, and H. opulenta individuals in parts of the introduced range are likely to enter diapause early after a single generation. Our results highlight additional vulnerabilities encountered by such individuals, and can contribute to models predicting population dynamics of H. opulenta across its introduced range.
Impact of roadside burning on genetic diversity in a high‐biomass invasive grass
Authors: Di Binyin , Firn Jennifer , Buckley Yvonne M. , Lomas Kate , Pausas Juli G. , Smith Annabel L.
Published: March 2022

The invasive grass–fire cycle is a widely documented feedback phenomenon in which invasive grasses increase vegetation flammability and fire frequency, resulting in further invasion and compounded effects on fire regimes. Few studies have examined the role of short‐term adaptation in driving the invasive grass–fire cycle, despite invasive species often thriving after introduction to new environments. We used a replicated (nine locations), paired sampling design (burn vs unburnt sites) to test the hypothesis that roadside burning increases genetic diversity and thus adaptive potential in the invasive, high‐biomass grass Cenchrus ciliaris. Between four and five samples per site (n = 93) were genotyped using the DArTseq platform, and we filtered the data to produce panels of 15,965 neutral and 5030 non‐neutral single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. Using fastSTRUCTURE, we detected three distinct genetic clusters with extremely high FST values among them (0.94–0.97) suggesting three different cultivars. We found high rates of asexual reproduction, possibly related to clonality or apomixis common in this species. At three locations, burnt and unburnt sites were genetically different, but genetic structure was not consistently related to fire management across the study region. Burning was associated with high genetic diversity and sexual reproduction in one genetic cluster, but with low genetic diversity and clonality in another. Individual SNPs were associated with longitude and genetic clustering, but not with recent fire management. Overall, we found limited evidence that roadside burning consistently increased genetic diversity and adaptive potential in C. ciliaris; evolutionary and breeding history more strongly shaped genetic structure. Roadside burning could therefore continue to be used for managing biomass in this species, with continued monitoring. Our study provides a framework for detecting fire‐related changes on a genetic level–a process that could be used as an early warning system to detect the invasive grass–fire cycle in future.
Adaptive divergence and underlying mechanisms in response to salinity gradients between two Crassostrea oysters revealed by phenotypic and transcriptomic analyses
Authors: Zhang Ziyan , Li Ao , She Zhicai , Wang Xuegang , Jia Zhen , Wang Wei , Zhang Guofan , Li Li
Published: March 2022

Comparing the responses of closely related species to environmental changes is an efficient method to explore adaptive divergence, for a better understanding of the adaptive evolution of marine species under rapidly changing climates. Oysters are keystone species thrive in intertidal and estuarine areas where frequent environmental disturbance occurs including fluctuant salinity. The evolutionary divergence of two sister species of sympatric estuarine oysters, Crassostrea hongkongensis and Crassostrea ariakensis, in response to euryhaline habitats on phenotypes and gene expression, and the relative contribution of species effect, environment effect, and their interaction to the divergence were explored. After a 2‐month outplanting at high‐ and low‐salinity locations in the same estuary, the high growth rate, percent survival, and high tolerance indicated by physiological parameters suggested that the fitness of C. ariakensis was higher under high‐salinity conditions and that of C. hongkongensis was higher under low‐salinity conditions. Moreover, a transcriptomic analysis showed the two species exhibited differentiated transcriptional expression in high‐ and low‐salinity habitats, largely caused by the species effect. Several of the important pathways enriched in divergent genes between species were also salinity‐responsive pathways. Specifically, the pyruvate and taurine metabolism pathway and several solute carriers may contribute to the hyperosmotic adaptation of C. ariakensis, and some solute carriers may contribute to the hypoosmotic adaptation of C. hongkongensis. Our findings provide insights into the phenotypic and molecular mechanisms underlying salinity adaptation in marine mollusks, which will facilitate the assessment of the adaptive capacity of marine species in the context of climate change and will also provide practical information for marine resource conservation and aquaculture.
The wind‐driven distribution of nearshore zooplankton in a stratified lake varies with their body size
Authors: Cyr Hélène , Sprules William Gary
Published: March 2022

Wind‐driven forces are expected to concentrate zooplankton along downwind shores in lakes and provide food subsidy to nearshore food webs, but the bathymetric complexity of nearshore areas could result in high spatial variability. Here we test: (1) whether zooplankton accumulate downwind on windy days, and whether the magnitude of accumulation varies with zooplankton body size and with nearshore bathymetric slope; and (2) whether nearshore zooplankton are more spatially variable than offshore zooplankton, and whether their spatial variability is related to wind conditions and to zooplankton body size. This study focuses on zooplankton distribution at the whole‐lake basin and at intermediate (10 m–1 km) spatial scales.

Zooplankton were sampled repeatedly along four c. 1 km transects at each of the upwind and downwind ends of a 22.1‐km2 stratified lake basin. Two transects were oriented perpendicular to shore and two were parallel, one close to shore and the other further offshore. Zooplankton were sampled along each transect using an optical plankton counter morning and afternoon over 3 consecutive days, under a range of wind conditions, during early stratification (early June), mid‐stratification (mid‐July) and late stratification (late September). A 3D‐hydrodynamic model was used to help interpret the results.

Small‐bodied zooplankton accumulated downwind during windy periods, reaching 8%–34% higher biomass than the basin‐wide average. This downwind accumulation of biomass was best explained by a partial (metalimnetic) upwelling displacing the epilimnion to the downwind end of the lake basin. Active upward movement of zooplankton is required to explain near‐surface biomass accumulation in this displaced water mass.

Large‐bodied zooplankton accumulated in nearshore areas, regardless of wind conditions. Higher nearshore accumulation of large zooplankton was observed along transects following a shallow (1.9%) bathymetric slope but not along a steep (6%) slope.

Large‐bodied zooplankton are more patchily distributed than small‐bodied zooplankton, both nearshore and offshore. The spatial variability of large zooplankton declined with increasing wind speed, but only at upwind sites. The patchy distribution of large‐bodied zooplankton is driven, or at least strongly influenced, by biological processes.

The spatial distribution and patchiness of zooplankton varies with wind speed, zooplankton body size and nearshore bathymetry. Planktonic organisms are not passive drifters, and their patchiness and influx to certain parts of the lake during windy periods are both expected to affect the efficiency of trophic transfers in lake food webs.
Revisiting economic geography and foreign direct investment in less developed regions
Authors: Pavlínek Petr
Published: March 2022

This article focuses on the long‐term effects of foreign direct investment (FDI) in less developed regions (LDRs). It identifies different types and mechanisms of FDI in more developed regions (MDRs) and LDRs, which lead to different regional development outcomes. It critically evaluates the most important approaches to FDI in LDRs developed in economic geography, namely the branch plant economy and truncation, new regionalism, new international division of labor and spatial divisions of labor, and global production networks. In the long run, FDI tends to benefit MDRs more than LDRs. The article calls on economic geographers to continue the research on FDI in the context of uneven development.
Antioxidative and antimicrobial properties of pulse proteins and their applications in gluten‐free foods and sports nutrition
Authors: Shevkani Khetan , Singh Narpinder , Patil Chidanand , Awasthi Ankit , Paul Maman
Published: March 2022

Pulses are inexpensive and eco‐friendly source of biologically active proteins/peptides exhibiting antioxidative and antimicrobial properties. The antimicrobial activity of pulse proteins/peptides is ascribed to their ability to interact with components of bacterial/fungal cells or viral‐envelope, while antioxidative effects are the result of absorption/scavenging of free radicals and reactive oxygen species, which depend on amino acid composition/sequence, hydrophobicity and molecular mass and vary with multiple factors, including, protein source, hydrolysing enzyme and conditions employed for hydrolysis. Pulse proteins also are useful for quality improvement of gluten‐free (GF) foods to fulfil the increasing demand not only of safe and nutritious but also of acceptable products for people with gluten‐related disorders. They contribute technological and sensory quality to GF baked products through providing lysine and improving hydration, viscoelasticity and gas retention, though the production of GF products with quality comparative to wheat‐based baked products is challenging. The inclusion of pulse proteins in pastas and noodles reduces their glycaemic index and improves textural and cooking properties. Also, pulse proteins were found to be comparable with animal proteins in enhancing exercise capacity and athletic performance; hence, these may be considered suitable in developing health‐promoting plant‐based athletic foods.
Using a hybrid data collection tool: Analysis of youth labour market trajectories integrating quantitative, qualitative and social network data
Authors: Verd Joan M.
Published: March 2022

This article explains the factors that led to the use of a hybrid data collection tool—i.e., a single questionnaire designed to collect both quantitative and qualitative data—in two different research projects that focused on the relation between the labour market trajectories of young people and the use and accumulation of network social capital in these trajectories. The article describes the characteristics of this tool and the methodological challenges posed by its use. The advantages and disadvantages of this specific type of data collection are also addressed. Among the main advantages, the improvement of data quality and the overarching picture obtained of the career path and use of personal networks are highlighted. The most important downside found is the amount of time needed in the interview, which shows the need to pay attention to the balance between quantitative and qualitative elements in the structure of the questionnaire.
Current application of mesotherapy in pattern hair loss: A systematic review
Authors: Tang Ziyuan , Hu Yiming , Wang Jin , Fan Zhexiang , Qu Qian , Miao Yong
Published: March 2022

Background and Objective

As a minimally invasive procedure, mesotherapy has been used in the cosmetic field for half a century and gets favorable results in fat reduction, facial rejuvenation, and hair regrowth. So far, it has achieved some exciting progression in pattern hair loss (PHL), which bothers plenty of people and has cost billion dollars searching for more effective treatment. The aim of this study is to summarize the efficacy of mesotherapy treating PHL.

Methods

Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched until January 2021. All literature was evaluated according to established criteria.

Results

We got 336 studies from searched databases, and 12 studies were included after selection process. A total of 253 males and 274 females participated in 6 randomized control trials, 2 nonrandomized controlled trials, and 3 observational studies. Mesotherapy showed positive efficacy in all studies to a certain extent, and no significant side effect occurred.

Conclusion

Mesotherapy demonstrated as an effective treatment for PHL. However, the sample size is not big enough, and studies about mesotherapy compared to other treatments are insufficient. Future research is required to claim more evidence.
Commitment, perception and evidence‐based practice training in Spanish nursing students: A multicentre cross‐sectional study
Authors: Gómez‐Salgado Juan , Rodríguez‐Almagro Julián , Molina‐Alarcón Milagros , Martínez‐Galiano Juan Miguel , Solano‐Ruiz María del Carmen , Hernández Martínez Antonio
Published: March 2022

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the commitment and level of self‐perceived training in evidence‐based practice among students of the Nursing degree of five Spanish universities.

Background

In university Health Sciences degrees, evidence‐based clinical practice can directly or indirectly impact the quality of care, the cost of the service provided and the safety of clinical practice.

Design

Multicentre cross‐sectional observational study according to STROBE guidelines.

Methods

The evidence‐based skills in Practice questionnaire (CACH‐PBE, for its acronym in Spanish) and the Utrecht Work Engagement Student Scale (UWES‐9S) were used. The study was performed in five Spanish universities (Alicante, Castilla La Mancha, Jaen, Huelva and Seville) from October to December 2020, with 755 participants (Nursing students).

Results

A total mean score of 91.9 points (SD = 11.81) was observed for the CACH‐PBE questionnaire and of 36.8 points (SD = 8.48 points) for the UWES‐9S. In addition, the multivariate analysis predicted that variables such as sex, academia, university, intention to do a Master or Doctorate degree, the level of work engagement, and the previous training in evidence‐based clinical practice were associated with a greater perception of evidence‐based practice.

Conclusion

The sample of Nursing degree students has intermediate‐high levels of knowledge, skills and attitudes regarding evidence‐based practice and work commitment, with differences observed between each of the universities.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nursing students should develop from intermediate to high levels of knowledge, skills and attitudes regarding evidence‐based practice and work commitment. There are various actions to promote EBP, such as the incorporation of a specific course covering the subject into the nursing curriculum, and the selection, for clinical practices, of care units that implemented evidence‐based care.
Assessing the frequency with which primary care providers address sleep of infants and young children
Authors: Mosher Wayne Andrew , Piccinini‐Vallis Helena
Published: March 2022

Sleep problems during early development are common and associated with negative health outcomes. Earlier recognition of poor sleep health permits earlier intervention and improved outcomes. This retrospective cohort study aimed to identify the frequency with which primary care providers assessed sleep health when completing the Rourke Baby Record for infants and young children during routine well‐baby visits from 2002 to 2019. Using 1180 electronic medical records from an academic family medicine teaching clinic, we identified the frequency with which primary care providers assessed sleep health at three time intervals in child development: 1 week to 1 month; 2 months to 6 months; and 9 months to 12–13 months. Sleep variables were night waking, healthy sleep habits, and safe sleep. The frequency of having any aspect of sleep addressed was 85.4%, 90.2% and 66.7% at the three respective time intervals. There were no differences in the frequency with which sleep was assessed based on birthweight or sex. Children born during 2002–2015 were approximately half as likely to be assessed for sleep compared with those born during 2016–2019 at the second and third time intervals. In the first and second time intervals, children who were not exclusively breastfed had their sleep assessed significantly less than children who were exclusively breastfed. To our knowledge this is the first study to explore the area of sleep discussions and breastfeeding status in primary care during routine well‐baby visits. These results are clinically relevant for clinicians and parents, due to the known associations between sleep issues and sudden infant death syndrome, childhood injuries, and emotional dysregulation.
Rice congee as an alternative to thickened liquids for patients with swallowing disorders
Authors: Ng Manwa Lawrence , Lui Hoi Ying
Published: March 2022

Seeing the popularity of rice congee consumption among Asian families, the present study examined the possibility of preparing thickened liquids from rice congee of different consistency levels that are commonly prescribed for individuals with swallowing disorders. The two most common rice varieties in Hong Kong, indica and japonica rice grains, were used to prepare rice congee from which thickened liquids were extracted. By varying the water‐to‐rice ratio, cooking time, optional reheating on a frying pan, and temperature, slightly thick, mildly thick, moderately thick, and extremely thick liquids were obtained. Recipes for extracting thickened liquids of different consistencies from rice congee cooked with indica and japonica rice grains were established. The consistency levels were defined with reference to although not strictly following the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative framework. Results revealed that the consistency of the product varied with water‐to‐rice ratio, cooking time, and temperature. Recipes were established for preparing thickened liquids using rice grains at both serving and room temperatures. Findings support that thickened liquids so obtained can be used as an alternative to thickened liquids preparing using commercial thickeners.
Role of traditional knowledge in the COVID‐19 battle
Authors: Ola Kunle
Published: March 2022

This article addresses the role of traditional medicine in the corona virus (COVID‐19) battle. It situates traditional medicine within the traditional knowledge and Intellectual Property discussion. The paper discusses the increased gravitation towards using traditional medicine but also identifies the existence of scepticism towards its use. Indigenous communities make up a large portion of the traditional medicine community and are therefore called upon to play their role in the fight against COVID‐19. The battle is real, the coronavirus ground is an intersecting one with multiple, plausible solutions. Traditional medicine has a role in this battle and this article advocates for collaboration. It is a clarion call for all stakeholders to join hands to fight the virus. It advocates inclusion rather than exclusion.
A phenomenological exploration of the impact of COVID‐19 on the medical education community
Authors: Luong Victoria , Burm Sarah , Bogie Bryce J. M. , Cowley Lindsay , Klasen Jennifer M. , MacLeod Anna , LaDonna Kori A.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic has caused unprecedented stress to the medical education community, potentially worsening problems like burnout and work‐life imbalance that its members have long been grappling with. However, the collective struggle sparked by the pandemic could generate the critical reflection necessary for transforming professional values and practices for the better. In this hermeneutic phenomenological study, we explore how the community is adapting—and even reconceptualising—their personal and professional roles amidst the COVID‐19 crisis.

Method

Between April and October 2020, we conducted 27 (17F, 10M) semi‐structured interviews with medical trainees (8), physicians (8), graduate students (3) and PhD scientists (8) working in medical education in Canada, the United States and Switzerland. Data analysis involved a variety of strategies, including coding for van Manen's four lifeworld existentials, reflexive writing and multiple team meetings.

Results

Participants experienced grief related to the loss of long‐established personal and professional structures and boundaries, relationships and plans for the future. However, experiences of grief were often conflicting. Some participants also experienced moments of relief, perceiving some losses as metaphorical permissions slips to slow down and focus on their well‐being. In turn, many reflected on the opportunity they were being offered to re‐imagine the nature of their work.

Discussion

Participants' experiences with grief, relief and opportunity resonate with Ratcliffe's account of grief as a process of relearning the world after a significant loss. The dismantling of prior life structures and possibilities incited in participants critical reflection on the nature of the medical education community's professional practices. Participants demonstrated their desire for more flexibility and autonomy in the workplace and a re‐adjustment of the values and expectations inherent to their profession. On both individual and systems levels, the community must ensure that long‐standing calls for wellness and work‐life integration are realised—and persist—after the pandemic is over.
China's Approach to the Iran‐Saudi Arabia Rivalry
Authors: Malla Mohmad Waseem
Published: March 2022

This article critically examines the configurations of China's approach to the Middle East, in general, and the Iran‐Saudi Arabia axis, in particular. China's traditional practice has been to secure its national interests in economic terms while maintaining a critical distance from the domestic affairs of its partner countries. But lately, with changing geopolitical dynamics in the region, the scope of Beijing's engagement with these states has transformed as well. Though the basic contours of the rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia are geopolitical in nature, it is chiefly driven by sectarian and other identity markers, with the potential of dragging other countries to their respective sides. The article argues that, as China multiplies its regional engagements to ensure energy security for its rapidly expanding economy and international profile, the ever‐changing geopolitical realities will likely make Beijing's political role inevitable and therefore preclude a balanced approach toward Iran and Saudi Arabia.
NUCLEOCYTOPLASMIC shuttling of ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTOR 5 mediated by nitric oxide suppresses ethylene biosynthesis in apple fruit
Authors: Ji Yinglin , Xu Mingyang , Liu Zhi , Yuan Hui , Lv Tianxing , Li Hongjian , Xu Yaxiu , Si Yajing , Wang Aide
Published: March 2022

Nitric oxide (NO) is known to modulate the action of several phytohormones. This includes the gaseous hormone ethylene, but the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of NO on ethylene biosynthesis are unclear.

Here, we observed a decrease in endogenous NO abundance during apple (Malus domestica) fruit development and exogenous treatment of apple fruit with a NO donor suppressed ethylene production, suggesting that NO is a ripening suppressor.

Expression of the transcription factor MdERF5 was activated by NO donor treatment. NO induced the nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of MdERF5 by modulating its interaction with the protein phosphatase, MdPP2C57. MdPP2C57‐induced dephosphorylation of MdERF5 at Ser260 is sufficient to promote nuclear export of MdERF5. As a consequence of this export, MdERF5 proteins in the cytoplasm interacted with and suppressed the activity of MdACO1, an enzyme that converts 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid (ACC) to ethylene. The NO‐activated MdERF5 was observed to increase in abundance in the nucleus and bind to the promoter of the ACC synthase gene MdACS1 and directly suppress its transcription.

Together, these results suggest that NO‐activated nucleocytoplasmic MdERF5 suppresses the action of ethylene biosynthetic genes, thereby suppressing ethylene biosynthesis and limiting fruit ripening.
Effects of intermittent parathyroid hormone on cementoblast‐mediated periodontal repair
Authors: Cheng Ye , Li Fan , Xiao Xiaoyue , Zou Shujuan , Chen Jianwei
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To investigate the effects of intermittent parathyroid hormone on cementoblast‐mediated periodontal repair in the context of orthodontic‐induced root resorption.

Materials and Methods

The rat model of orthodontic‐induced root resorption was established. Sixty rats were randomly allocated into the experiment group (n = 30) and the control group (n = 30), either receiving a daily subcutaneous injection of recombinant human PTH or placebo vehicle. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, Micro‐computed tomography, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and immunohistochemistry staining were performed to detect the periodontal repair. In vitro, OCCM‐30 cells were exposed to intermittent PTH (incubated with PTH for the first 6 h in each 24‐h cycle). After three cycles, flow cytometry assay, alkaline phosphatase staining, and Alizarin red staining were performed. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were employed to further determine the effects of intermittent PTH.

Results

Intermittent PTH‐responsive repair enhancement was detected with the expression of bone sialoprotein, osteocalcin, collagen‐1, and alkaline phosphatase significantly upregulated. Increased expressions of cementoblastic proteins were positively correlated to cycles of PTH administration. The proportion of cementoblasts in S and G2/M phases was increased; namely, intermittent PTH promoted cementoblast cell proliferation.

Conclusions

Intermittent parathyroid hormone administration promotes cementoblast‐mediated cementogenesis during periodontal repair in a time‐dependent manner.
The effects of optically and digitally simulated aniseikonia on stereopsis
Authors: Atchison David A , Nguyen Thien , Schmid Katrina L , Rakshit Archayeeta , Baldwin Alex S , Hess Robert F
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To simulate both lens‐induced and screen‐induced aniseikonia, and to assess its influence on stereopsis. Additionally, to determine if screen‐based size differences could neutralise the effects of lens‐induced aniseikonia.

Method

A four‐circle (4‐C) paradigm was developed, where one circle appears in front or behind the others because of crossed or uncrossed disparity. This stereotest was used for three investigations: (1) Comparison with the McGill modified random dot stereogram (RDS), with anisometropia introduced with +2 D spheres and cylinders, and with aniseikonia introduced with 6% overall and 6% meridional (×180, ×90) magnifiers before the right eye; (2) Comparison of lens‐induced and screen‐induced 6% overall and meridional magnifications and (3) Determining if lens and screen effects neutralised, by opposing 6% lens‐induced magnification to the right eye with screen‐inducements of either 6% left eye magnification or 6% right eye minification. A pilot study of the effect of masking versus not masking the surround was also conducted.

Results

The 4‐C test gave higher stereo‐thresholds than the RDS test by 0.5 ± 0.2 log units across both anisometropic and aniseikonic conditions. However, variations in power, meridian and magnification affected the two tests similarly. The pilot study indicated that surround masking improved neutralisation of screen and lens effects. With masking, lens‐induced and screen‐induced magnifications increased stereo‐thresholds similarly. With lens and screen effects opposed, for most participants stereo‐thresholds returned to baseline for overall and ×180 magnifications, but not for ×90 magnification. Only three of seven participants showed good compensation for ×90 magnification.

Conclusions

Effects of lens‐induced aniseikonia on stereopsis cannot always be successfully simulated with a screen‐based method. The ability to neutralise refractive aniseikonia using a computer‐based method, which is the basis of digital clinical measurement, was reasonably successful for overall and ×180 meridional aniseikonia, but not very successful for ×90 aniseikonia.
Using dynamic common correlated effects approach to analyze the role of sin taxes in short‐ and long‐term fiscal surplus across US states
Authors: Kim Koomin
Published: March 2022

This study empirically analyzes the role of sin taxes in short‐ and long‐run fiscal surplus and across US states via dynamic common correlated effects mean group (DCCEMG) and dynamic common correlated effects pooled mean group estimation (DCCEPMG) during a 36‐year period (1980–2015). Sin tax revenue increases long‐run fiscal surplus for all states, as shown in the log–log model; it also promotes short‐run state fiscal surplus for high‐income states, conservative state governments, and nonsouthern states. Compared to overall tax revenues that are elastic, sin taxes are inelastic revenue sources that promote states' long‐run fiscal surplus. Findings suggest that the effect of sin tax revenue on fiscal surplus varies based on state characteristics. This study contributes to the literature theoretically and practically. First, it marks an initial attempt to link sin taxes with states' fiscal conditions. Second, this study applies recent methodologies such as DCCEMG and DCCEPMG. Results offer practitioners valuable insight into the impacts of sin taxes on long‐run fiscal conditions.
Exploiting Light Directionality for Image‐Based 3D Reconstruction of Non‐Collaborative Surfaces
Authors: Karami Ali , Menna Fabio , Remondino Fabio , Varshosaz Masood
Published: March 2022

Three‐dimensional (3D) measurement of non‐collaborative surfaces is still an open research topic. This paper investigates and quantifies for the first time the effect of light directionality and fusion of multiple images as a method to improve the quality of photogrammetric 3D reconstruction. For this aim, an image acquisition system that employs multiple light sources was developed to highlight the roughness and microstructures of the object under investigation. Images were captured at various grazing angles to highlight the local surface roughness and microstructures. Individual point clouds, created using images taken at different grazing angles, were produced using dense image‐matching techniques. These point clouds were then compared against different 3D photogrammetric reconstructions obtained from a pre‐processing of the acquired images based on diffuse lighting, median and average images. Experiments showed that exploiting light directionality significantly improves image‐matching quality. Furthermore, depending on the light direction, the root mean square (RMS) error of the 3D surfaces obtained using the proposed system were up to 50% less than those created by traditional diffuse lighting.
Administration, rhetoric, and climate policy in the Obama presidency
Authors: Jones Craig , Fowler Luke
Published: March 2022

Among the most well‐known traits of the Obama presidency are his rhetorical skills and reliance on administrative action to push forward policy in the face of an unresponsive Congress. This is particularly notable for climate change, where Obama used the tools of the administrative presidency to make policy and rhetoric to build public support for these actions. To this end, the authors examine how President Obama rhetorically constructed and rationalized his use of the Environmental Protection Agency to implement federal climate change regulations via the federal Clean Power Plan. The authors use a rhetorical analysis to examine President Obama's speeches from 2009 through 2015 that explicitly or implicitly reference climate change, greenhouse gases, and the Clean Power Plan, but also related topics, such as energy policy and climate agreements. The authors find that Obama relied on polysemy and the locus of irreparable in his speeches to sale the urgent need for administrative action on climate change. Conclusions suggest that the use of rhetoric and administrative action from the White House are key to how federal climate policy has been constructed in the U.S.
Silvopastoral systems improve carbon stocks at livestock ranches in Tabasco, Mexico
Authors: Valenzuela Que Fabiola G. , Villanueva‐López Gilberto , Alcudia‐Aguilar Alejandro , Medrano‐Pérez Ojilve Ramón , Cámara‐Cabrales Luisa , Martínez‐Zurimendi Pablo , Casanova‐Lugo Fernando , Aryal Deb Raj
Published: March 2022

Silvopastoral systems have great potential for storing carbon because of carbon assimilation in tree woody biomass, carbon input through litterfall and below‐ground carbon turnover. In this study, we quantified and compared the carbon stocks at livestock ranches in Tabasco, Mexico, containing either scattered trees in grazing pastures (STP) or grass monocultures. Sampling plots were randomly established at each ranch where the above‐ and below‐ground carbon stocks, carbon input from litterfall, grass production and arboreal biomass growth were measured. We found that silvopastoral systems stored an average of 257.45 Mg ha−1 of soil organic carbon (SOC) compared to 119.17 Mg SOC ha−1 at grass monoculture ranches (to 30 cm depth); silvopastoral systems also stored 44.64 Mg C ha−1 in wood biomass; and, grass monocultures had greater cumulative grass biomass production. Overall, it is concluded that livestock ranches in Tabasco, Mexico, with scattered trees in grazing pastures stored 58.8% more carbon than those grass monocultures, with carbon stocks of 327.01 Mg C ha−1and 134.47 Mg C ha−1, respectively. The results are useful for land management decision making for sustainable livestock systems framed in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Evaluating the utility of pest control sourced rats for zoonotic pathogen surveillance
Authors: Robinson Sarah J. , Finer Rachel , Himsworth Chelsea G. , Pearl David L. , Rousseau Joyce , Weese J. Scott , Lindsay L. Robbin , Dibernardo Antonia , Huynh Chris , Jardine Claire M.
Published: March 2022

Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) inhabit cities worldwide and live in close association with humans. Studies of urban rat zoonoses often rely on live‐trapping, with fewer studies using rats sourced through lethal pest control interventions. Our objectives were to evaluate the utility of rats collected by pest control professionals for zoonotic pathogen surveillance and determine whether we could detect Leptospira interrogans and Streptobacillus moniliformis in pest control sourced rats. Rat carcasses were submitted from Windsor, Canada by pest control professionals between November 2018 and March 2020. Submissions were categorized by season and land use. Necropsies were performed to classify carcass quality, collect tissue samples, and record demographic data. The association between carcass quality and the ability to collect tissue samples for pathogen surveillance was assessed via an exact logistic regression model. Using PCR, a subset of kidney and spleen samples were tested for L. interrogans and S. moniliformis, respectively. Our sample of pest control sourced rats had similar sex and age distributions to those of live‐trapping studies. Rats were primarily submitted from residential and industrial locations during fall, winter, and spring, which may reflect pest control service areas and peak business periods, rather than rat distribution. Of 124 submissions, 98 (79.0%) of rats showed only mild decomposition. The odds of collecting all tissue samples were reduced for fair compared to good‐quality carcasses (OR: 0.029; 95% CI: 0–0.25; p = .0009) and for poor compared to fair‐quality carcasses (OR: 0.048; 95% CI: 0.00085–0.53; p = .0065). Leptospira interrogans and S. moniliformis were detected in 9.1% (4/44) and 27.3% (15/55) of a subset of rats tested, respectively. Our results suggest that pest control sourced rats are suitable for surveillance for multiple zoonotic pathogens in urban environments. This method of rat collection may provide preliminary information to guide more detailed ecological studies.
Mobile injury prevention programs for children: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Carroll Amy Lowery , Christian Robin , Palokas Michelle
Published: March 2022

Objective:

The objective of this review is to examine mobile injury prevention programs for children and their families.

Introduction:

Unintentional injuries are the leading cause of death worldwide for children aged one to 18years. Providing injury prevention education to children and their families is a necessary and critical element in health promotion.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider studies that include children from birth to 18years of age and their parents or guardians. The concept of this review is mobile or traveling injury prevention education programs for the specified population. Studies conducted in any geographic location or setting that report on how these programs are being utilized, who is providing the education, where education is being provided, who is funding the education, and outcome measures reported with mobile injury prevention programs will be included in the review.

Methods:

This review will follow JBI's guidance for scoping reviews. The key databases to be searched include MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL (EBSCO), the Cochrane Library (Wiley), ERIC (EBSCO), Web of Science (Clarivate), and Embase (Elsevier). The search for unpublished studies will consist of OpenGrey (www.opengrey.eu) and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Sciences and Engineering Collection (ProQuest). Studies conducted in English, in any year, will be included. Two independent reviewers will perform title and abstract screening, retrieval and review of full-text studies, and data extraction. The results will be presented in diagrammatic or tabular form that aligns with a narrative summary.
Phase transition behavior in nanostructured VO2 with M1, M2, and R phases observed via temperature-dependent XRD measurements
Authors: Nishikawa Kazutaka , Yoshimura Masamichi , Watanabe Yoshihide
Published: March 2022

Vanadium dioxide (VO2) exhibits a metal-insulator phase transition at approximately 70 °C. Two different crystal structures, M1 and M2 phases, in the insulating state have been reported. The M2 phase is expected to be a Mott insulator, whereas the M1 phase is expected to act as a band insulator. It is important to clarify the origin and transition properties of the M2 phase. In this study, we fabricated VO2 nanostructures via sputtering deposition and subsequent lamp annealing at various O2 pressures. Temperature-dependent XRD measurements revealed that the nanostructured VO2 exhibits the M2 phase in temperatures just before the phase transition from M1 to R (metal state) during the heating process. The ratio of V5+/(V4+ + V5+) in nanostructured VO2 was estimated from XPS results; an increase in this ratio resulted in the broadening of the temperature range of the M2 phase. Furthermore, in the cooling process, direct phase transitions from R to M1 were observed. Structural changes are likely to occur in different pathways during heating and cooling. Our findings should contribute to the identification of the phase transition mechanism and to the development of a Mott field-effect transistor that utilizes nanostructured VO2 in the M2 phase.
Genetic Susceptibility to Enteric Fever in Experimentally Challenged Human Volunteers
Authors: Barton Amber , Hill Jennifer , Bibi Sagida , Chen Liye , Jones Claire , Jones Elizabeth , Camara Susana , Shrestha Sonu , Jin Celina , Gibani Malick M. , Dobinson Hazel , Waddington Claire , Darton Thomas C. , Blohmke Christoph J. , Pollard Andrew J.
Published: March 2022

Infections with
Salmonella enterica
serovars Typhi and Paratyphi A cause an estimated 14 million cases of enteric fever annually. Here, the controlled nature of challenge studies is exploited to identify genetic variants associated with enteric fever susceptibility.
Unique Features of Alarmone Metabolism in Clostridioides difficile
Authors: Poudel Asia , Pokhrel Astha , Oludiran Adenrele , Coronado Estevan J. , Alleyne Kwincy , Gilfus Marrett M. , Gurung Raj K. , Adhikari Surya B. , Purcell Erin B.
Published: March 2022

Despite the role of the stringent response in antibiotic survival and recurrent infections, it has been a challenging target for antibacterial therapies because it is so ubiquitous. This is an especially relevant consideration for the treatment of
Clostridioides difficile
infection (CDI), as exposure to broad-spectrum antibiotics that harm commensal microbes is a major risk factor for CDI.
Development and Validation of a Competitive ELISA Based on Bovine Monoclonal Antibodies for the Detection of Neutralizing Antibodies against Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Serotype A
Authors: Cao Yimei , Li Kun , Xing Xiangchuan , Zhu Guoqiang , Fu Yuanfang , Bao Huifang , Bai Xingwen , Sun Pu , Li Pinghua , Zhang Jing , Ma Xueqing , Wang Jian , Zhao Zhixun , Li Dong , Liu Zaixin , Lu Zengjun
Published: March 2022

The level of neutralizing antibodies in vaccinated animals is directly related to their level of protection against a virus challenge. The virus neutralization test (VNT) is a “gold standard” method for detecting neutralizing antibodies against foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV). However, VNT requires high-containment facilities that can handle live viruses and is not suitable for large-scale serological surveillance. In this study, a bovine broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibody (W145) against FMDV serotype A was successfully produced using fluorescence-based single-B-cell antibody technology.
Evaluation of Rezafungin Provisional CLSI Clinical Breakpoints and Epidemiological Cutoff Values Tested against a Worldwide Collection of Contemporaneous Invasive Fungal Isolates (2019 to 2020)
Authors: Carvalhaes Cecilia G. , Klauer Abby L. , Rhomberg Paul R. , Pfaller Michael A. , Castanheira Mariana
Published: March 2022

Rezafungin is a new echinocandin under development for the treatment of candidemia and invasive candidiasis. CLSI recently approved provisional susceptible-only breakpoints and epidemiological cutoff values for
Candida
spp. and rezafungin. The activities of rezafungin and comparators against 2019 to 2020 invasive fungal isolates was evaluated by applying the new CLSI breakpoints. Rezafungin demonstrated potent activity against
Candida albicans
(MIC
50
/MIC
90
, 0.03/0.06 mg/L; 100.0% susceptible),
Candida tropicalis
(MIC
50
/MIC
90
, 0.03/0.06 mg/L; 100% susceptible),
Candida glabrata
(MIC
50
/MIC
90
, 0.06/0.06 mg/L; 98.3% susceptible),
Candida krusei
(MIC
50
/MIC
90
, 0.03/0.03 mg/L; 100% susceptible), and
Candida dubliniensis
(MIC
50
/MIC
90
, 0.06/0.12 mg/L; 100% susceptible) when tested by the CLSI broth microdilution method. Rezafungin inhibited 99.6% of
Candida parapsilosis
isolates (MIC
50
/MIC
90
, 1/2 mg/L) at the susceptible breakpoint of ≤2 mg/L. All
C. albicans
,
C. tropicalis
, and
C. krusei
isolates, as well as most
C. glabrata
(96.2% to 97.9%) and
C. parapsilosis
(86.2% to 100%) isolates, were susceptible to comparator echinocandins. Fluconazole resistance was detected among 0.5%, 4.5%, 10.5%, and 1.2% of
C. albicans
,
C. glabrata
,
C. parapsilosis
, and
C. tropicalis
isolates, respectively. All echinocandins displayed limited activity against
Cryptococcus neoformans
. Rezafungin and other echinocandins were active against
Aspergillus fumigatus
(minimum effective concentration for 90% of isolates tested [MEC
90
] range, 0.015 to 0.06 mg/L) and
Aspergillus
section
Flavi
(MEC
90
range, 0.015 to 0.03 mg/L). All but 16 (8.6%)
A. fumigatus
isolates were susceptible to voriconazole, and 100% of
Aspergillus
section
Flavi
isolates were WT to mold-active azoles. When applying the CLSI clinical breakpoints, rezafungin displayed high susceptibility rates (>98.0%) against
Candida
isolates from invasive fungal infections and showed potent activity against
Aspergillus
isolates.