bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Helicobacter pyloriattachment-blocking antibodies protect against duodenal ulcer disease
Authors: Bugaytsova Jeanna A. , Moonens Kristof , Piddubnyi Artem , Schmidt Alexej , Edlund Johan Olofsson , Lisiutin Gennadii , Brännström Kristoffer , Chernov Yevgen A. , Thorel Kaisa , Tkachenko Iryna , Sharova Oleksandra , Vikhrova Iryna , Butsyk Anna , Shubin Pavlo , Chyzhma Ruslana , Johansson Daniel X. , Marcotte Harold , Sjöström Rolf , Shevtsova Anna , Bylund Göran , Rakhimova Lena , Lundquist Anders , Berhilevych Oleksandra , Kasianchuk Victoria , Loboda Andrii , Ivanytsia Volodymyr , Hultenby Kjell , Persson Mats A. A. , Gomes Joana , Matos Rita , Gartner Fátima , Reis Celso A. , Whitmire Jeannette M. , Merrell D. Scott , Pan-Hammarström Qiang , Landström Maréne , Oscarson Stefan , D’Elios Mario M. , Agreus Lars , Ronkainen Jukka , Aro Pertti , Engstrand Lars , Graham David Y. , Kachkovska Vladyslava , Mukhopadhyay Asish , Chaudhuri Sujit , Karmakar Bipul Chandra , Paul Sangita , Kravets Oleksandr , Camorlinga Margarita , Torres Javier , Berg Douglas E. , Moskalenko Roman , Haas Rainer , Remaut Han , Hammarström Lennart , Borén Thomas
Published: May 2023

The majority of the world population carry the gastric pathogenHelicobacter pylori. Fortunately, most individuals experience only low-grade or no symptoms, but in many cases the chronic inflammatory infection develops into severe gastric disease, including duodenal ulcer disease and gastric cancer. Here we report on a protective mechanism whereH. pyloriattachment and accompanying chronic mucosal inflammation can be reduced by antibodies that are present in a vast majority ofH. pyloricarriers. These antibodies block binding of theH. pyloriattachment protein BabA by mimicking BabA’s binding to the ABO blood group glycans in the gastric mucosa. However, many individuals demonstrate low titers of BabA blocking antibodies, which is associated with an increased risk for duodenal ulceration, suggesting a role for these antibodies in preventing gastric disease.
Evaluation of the implementation and effects of management through care and services pathways: A protocol study
Authors: Maillet Lara , Thiebaut Georges Charles , Goudet Anna , Godbout Isabelle , Touati Nassera , Smits Pernelle , Duhoux Arnaud , Breton Mylaine , Abou-Malham Sabina , Couturier Yves , Gilbert Frédéric , Marchand Jean-Sébastien , Denis Jean-Louis
Published: May 2023

Background

In 2015, the Government of Quebec undertook a vast reorganization of its health and social services network. This reform mainly aimed to promote and simplify access to services for the population, contributing to the improvement of the quality and safety of care, and increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the network. Since 2016, several health care organizations (HCOs) have pushed reform even further by developing management through care and service pathways (MCSP). This study aims to identify, in a processual manner, the different factors involved in implementing MCSP in different HCOs, in the turbulent context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

The methodology of this research project is based on developmental evaluation. The objective of developmental evaluation is to guide organizations and actors in the adaptation and development of innovations in complex and turbulent environments. Data will be collected over a three-year period using five strategies: i) organizational questionnaires; ii) analysis of clinical-administrative databases; iii) documentary analysis (grey and scientific literatures); iv) participant observations and v) semi-structured interviews with key actors involved in the implementation of MCSP.

Discussion

In addition to the operationalization of pathways, the implementation of MCSP i) involves transforming the governance of the health care organization both at the strategic and operational levels and ii) is a demanding process that requires changes in practices, modifications in the allocation and configuration of resources and the development of new collaborations between the different actors in the organization, the partners and the users involved in this transformation. Several studies claim that governance innovations can create conditions that are favourable to the emergence of innovations in terms of available services and responding to the needs of populations. This research will develop knowledge of the factors involved in implementing MCSP in complex and turbulent contexts and propose scale-up across the province.
Direct interaction with the BRD4 carboxyl-terminal motif (CTM) and TopBP1 is required for human papillomavirus 16 E2 association with mitotic chromatin and plasmid segregation function
Authors: Prabhakar Apurva T. , James Claire D. , Fontan Christian T. , Otoa Raymonde , Wang Xu , Bristol Molly L. , Hill Ronald D. , Dubey Aanchal , Wu Shwu-Yuan , Chiang Cheng-Ming , Morgan Iain M.
Published: May 2023

During the human papillomavirus 16 life cycle, the E2 protein binds simultaneously to the viral genome and host chromatin throughout mitosis, ensuring viral genomes reside in daughter cell nuclei following cell division. Previously, we demonstrated that CK2 phosphorylation of E2 on serine 23 promotes interaction with TopBP1, and that this interaction is required for optimum E2 mitotic chromatin association and plasmid segregation function. Others have implicated BRD4 in mediating the plasmid segregation function of E2 and we have demonstrated that there is a TopBP1-BRD4 complex in the cell. We therefore further investigated the role of the E2-BRD4 interaction in mediating E2 association with mitotic chromatin and plasmid segregation function. Using a combination of immunofluorescence and our novel plasmid segregation assay in U2OS and N/Tert-1 cells stably expressing a variety of E2 mutants, we report that direct interaction with the BRD4 carboxyl-terminal motif (CTM) and TopBP1 is required for E2 association with mitotic chromatin and plasmid segregation. We also identify a novel TopBP1 mediated interaction between E2 and the BRD4 extra-terminal (ET) domainin vivo. Overall, the results demonstrate that direct interaction with TopBP1 and the BRD4 CTM are required for E2 mitotic chromatin association and plasmid segregation function. Disruption of this complex offers therapeutic options for targeting segregation of viral genomes into daughter cells, potentially combatting HPV16 infections, and cancers that retain episomal genomes.

Importance

HPV16 is a causative agent in around 3-4% of all human cancers and currently there are no anti-viral therapeutics available for combating this disease burden. In order to identify new therapeutic targets, we must increase our understanding of the HPV16 life cycle. Previously, we demonstrated that an interaction between E2 and the cellular protein TopBP1 mediates the plasmid segregation function of E2, allowing distribution of viral genomes into daughter nuclei following cell division. Here, we demonstrate that E2 interaction with an additional host protein, BRD4, is also essential for E2 segregation function, and that BRD4 exists in a complex with TopBP1. Overall, these results enhance our understanding of a critical part of the HPV16 life cycle and presents several therapeutic targets for disruption of the viral life cycle.
Scaffold-level genome assemblies of two parasitoid biocontrol wasps reveal the parthenogenesis mechanism and an associated novel virus
Authors: Inwood S.N , Skelly J , Guhlin J , Harrop T , Goldson S , Dearden P.K
Published: May 2023

Background

Biocontrol is a key technology for the control of pest species.Microctonusparasitoid wasps (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) have been released in Aotearoa New Zealand as biocontrol agents, targeting three different pest weevil species. Despite their value as biocontrol agents, no genome assemblies are currently available for theseMicroctonuswasps, limiting investigations into key biological differences between the different species and strains.

Methods and findings

Here we present high-quality genomes forMicroctonus hyperodaeandMicroctonus aethiopoides, assembled with short read sequencing and Hi-C scaffolding. These assemblies have total lengths of 106.7 Mb forM. hyperodaeand 129.2 Mb forM. aethiopoides, with scaffold N50 values of 9 Mb and 23 Mb respectively. With these assemblies we investigated differences in reproductive mechanisms, and association with viruses betweenMicroctonuswasps. Meiosis-specific genes are conserved in asexualMicroctonus, within-situhybridisation validating expression of one of these genes in the ovaries of asexualMicroctonus aethiopoides. This implies asexual reproduction in theseMicroctonuswasps involves meiosis, with the potential for sexual reproduction maintained. Investigation of viral gene content revealed candidate genes that may be involved in virus-like particle production inM. aethiopoides, as well as a novel virus infectingM. hyperodae, for which a complete genome was assembled.

Conclusion and significance

These are the first published genomes forMicroctonuswasps used for biocontrol in Aotearoa New Zealand, which will be valuable resources for continued investigation and monitoring of these biocontrol systems. Understanding the biology underpinningMicroctonusbiocontrol is crucial if we are to maintain its efficacy, or in the case ofM. hyperodaeto understand what may have influenced the significant decline of biocontrol efficacy. The potential for sexual reproduction in asexualMicroctonusis significant given that empirical modelling suggests this asexual reproduction is likely to have contributed to biocontrol decline. Furthermore the identification of a novel virus inM. hyperodaehighlights a previously unknown aspect of this biocontrol system, which may contribute to premature mortality of the host pest . These findings have potential to be exploited in future in attempt to increase the effectiveness ofM. hyperodaebiocontrol.
The circular potential of a Bio-District: indicators for waste management
Authors: Poponi Stefano , Ruggieri Alessandro , Pacchera Francesco , Arcese Gabriella
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This work aims to assess the potential of a Bio-District as a model for applying the circular economy concerning the waste scope. It aims to understand the capability of organic farms to manage waste with a circular perspective, starting with the use of indicators that directly or indirectly impact the waste scope.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on previous work that identified and systematised the circular indicators of the agri-food sector within a dashboard. With this research as a basis, the indicators within the waste scope in the dashboard were extracted. Cross-linked indicators with an indirect connection to the waste scope were also systematised and tested in a case study. Primary and secondary data were used for the study. The primary data came from a semi-structured interview, and the secondary data were from official databases.

Findings

The work highlights two important results. The first allows the definition of a subclassification of indicators by product and organisation, extracting those with a cross-linked characteristic concerning the waste scope. Secondly, the indicators' application shows the farm's circular and waste valorisation potential within the Bio-District. The study also made it possible to test a new indicator, the “Potential Energy Biomass Recovery”, to measure the farm's potential to produce energy from waste.

Originality/value

This research proposes a new circular economy approach to evaluate waste management in the agri-food sector.
The impact of digital technologies on business competitiveness: a comparison between Latin America and Europe
Authors: Bacca-Acosta Jorge , Gómez-Caicedo Melva Inés , Gaitán-Angulo Mercedes , Robayo-Acuña Paula , Ariza-Salazar Janitza , Mercado Suárez Álvaro Luis , Alarcón Villamil Nelson Orlando
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine how the adoption of digital technologies affects the business competitiveness of countries in Latin American and European countries.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a structural model based on factors representing the pillars of the Global Competitiveness Index: financial system, adoption of information and communication technologies (ICT), skills, labor market, product market, macroeconomic stability, business dynamism and gross domestic product (GDP) purchasing power parity (PPP) as a percentage of the total world value. The authors considered 17 Latin American and 28 European countries. The model was analyzed by partial least squares-structural equation modeling.

Findings

ICT adoption in Latin American countries is a strong predictor of business dynamism (66% of the variance), skills (81% of the variance), product market (75% of the variance), labor market (42% of the variance) and financial system (49% of the variance). Similarly, ICT adoption in European countries is a strong predictor of business dynamism (35.6% of the variance), skills (72.2% of the variance), product market (51.6% of the variance), labor market (81.7% of the variance, but with a negative path coefficient) and financial system (38% of the variance).

Practical implications

Latin American countries should create policies to build skills to increase ICT adoption, and improve business and labor market dynamism. A theoretical implication is that the authors propose two structural models based on the GCI that best explains competitiveness in Europe and Latin America.

Originality/value

Using GCI data, the authors present empirical evidence on the predictors of competitiveness across 17 Latin American and 28 European countries with a special focus on the adoption of digital technologies.
An unconditionally energy-stable scheme for the convective heat transfer equation
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Dong Suchuan , Xie Zhi
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to present an unconditionally energy-stable scheme for approximating the convective heat transfer equation.

Design/methodology/approach

The scheme stems from the generalized positive auxiliary variable (gPAV) idea and exploits a special treatment for the convection term. The original convection term is replaced by its linear approximation plus a correction term, which is under the control of an auxiliary variable. The scheme entails the computation of two temperature fields within each time step, and the linear algebraic system resulting from the discretization involves a coefficient matrix that is updated periodically. This auxiliary variable is given by a well-defined explicit formula that guarantees the positivity of its computed value.

Findings

Compared with the semi-implicit scheme and the gPAV-based scheme without the treatment on the convection term, the current scheme can provide an expanded accuracy range and achieve more accurate simulations at large (or fairly large) time step sizes. Extensive numerical experiments have been presented to demonstrate the accuracy and stability performance of the scheme developed herein.

Originality/value

This study shows the unconditional discrete energy stability property of the current scheme, irrespective of the time step sizes.
Leveraging shippers-logistics providers relationships for better sustainability in logistics: the perspective of SMEs
Authors: Creazza Alessandro , Colicchia Claudia , Evangelista Pietro
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The organization of services can affect the adoption of sustainable practices within the relationship between a buyer (e.g. a shipper) and a supplier (e.g. a logistics service provider–LSP). The purpose of this paper is to analyse, within this relationship, the mechanisms affecting collaboration between shippers and LSPs towards adopting green logistics practices to reduce the negative environmental effects of logistics processes. The authors take the perspective of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which represent – although less investigated than large enterprises – a relevant field of investigation given their impact on the environmental sustainability of logistics processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a multiple case-study investigation on a set of dyads involving shippers and LSPs. The authors explored the antecedents shaping the approach to sustainability in logistics and, adopting the absorptive capacity (AC) theory, the learning and knowledge transfer processes leading to the adoption of green practices.

Findings

Collaboration between shippers and LSPs for better sustainability in logistics seems not to work when relationships are limited to simple annual (or pluriannual) contracts, and when shippers do not show ambition to improve the level of sustainability of their logistics processes (regardless of whether they show an interest in general sustainability matters). On the other hand, successful cases show higher commitment in the dyadic relationship with respect to improving logistics sustainability, good levels of communication and a more structured process of knowledge sharing, enabled by IT integration, shared performance monitoring, and creation of inter-organizational teams.

Originality/value

While most of the existing research focuses on the perspective of shippers or LSPs, this work is original since it explores collaborative mechanisms within a buyer-supplier relationship simultaneously taking the perspective of both parties, according to the lens of the AC. It identifies directions for improving collaboration within the shipper-LSP relationship in the context of SMEs to foster the adoption of collaborative green logistics practices to impact sustainability positively.
The “Venice syndrome” in Tallinn Old Town
Authors: Talk Triin , Ojamäe Liis , Paadam Katrin , Alatalu Riin
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The article aims to elucidate the impact that neoliberal tourism development has had on the living environment of the Old Town of Tallinn through the perceptions of residents and property owners.

Design/methodology/approach

This article's empirical analysis is based on a sociological survey conducted amongst 338 residents and property owners of Tallinn Old Town.

Findings

The research showed quite low tourism tolerance amongst the residents of Tallinn Old Town, the host community, in comparison to the city's residents in general. Half of the residents estimated the tourism load to be too heavy during the high season before the pandemic. The differences in perceptions based on geographical location indicated that people who lived in the most touristic areas of the Old Town were more critical about all aspects about their living environment.

Originality/value

The article provides a detailed insight into the social impact of tourism in a historical urban area, where the post-socialist neoliberal context has enabled unrestricted tourism growth and increasing vulnerability of the local community. The roots of these processes can be traced back to Soviet urban and housing policies. The case exemplifies the significance of local time-space specificities to be considered in building an understanding of contemporary touristification and its impact on local communities in heritage areas.
City identity and singularity: people's preferences about development projects in Cairo
Authors: Badawy Omnia Ashraf , Khalifa Marwa A. , Elshater Abeer
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to revisit the concepts of city singularity and identity, as well as the concept’s related topics (i.e. place identity, place attachment and place dependence). The aim is to investigate the impact of development projects on people's preferences for old and contemporary features in modern cities. The evidence for this can be seen mainly at historical sites such as Heliopolis in Cairo, Egypt.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors investigated how development projects affect place identity and city singularity through a three-step process. As a first step, an online questionnaire was administered to experts to assess the characteristics that shape the identity of local districts. In the second and third steps, interviews were conducted, followed by online surveys directed at Heliopolis residents and non-residents. The weight of people’s preferences was determined using multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM).

Findings

The results highlighted people's preferences to consider when developing projects at historical sites. Based on these preferences, the authors’ concluded remarks provide insight into some considerations for developing projects in historic places.

Originality/value

The added value here is surveying people’s preferences about development projects in historical places. The physical and social components interplay contributes to city identity and singularity. Based on these preferences, this investigation offers valuable insights into enhancing historical site development.
Evaluation of a training programme to train older adults as facilitators in a memory training project: using Kirpatrick’s model
Authors: Vidal-Marti Cristina
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explain the evaluation of a training programme for older adults to make them facilitators of a memory training project. Older adults were trained as facilitators to respond to the need to continue training memory and promote the active role of adults in the community.

Design/methodology/approach

The Kirkpatrick model was used to comprehensively evaluate the training programme. The participants were 89 older adults from the city of Barcelona, with an average age of 73.1 years old. To evaluate the training programme, six instruments were administered, adapted to the four levels established in Kirkpatrick’s model.

Findings

The results obtained show that the programme to train facilitators enables older adults to become facilitators in a memory training project.

Research limitations/implications

Two limitations have been identified. The first is to analyse the extent to which the participants learned from the facilitator’s memory training project. The second is the methodological improvement for future research on two issues: strengthening the validity of the instruments and incorporating a control group.

Practical implications

The implications for practice, presented in this article, are twofold. One is the importance of lifelong learning as a resource for remaining healthy. Another implication is the active role of older adults in the community.

Originality/value

This research enables older adults to become involved in responding to their own needs such as memory training. In turn, it contributes to promoting active ageing and community participation.
Sine-based lattice plates: additive manufacturing and their mechanical properties when loaded out of plane
Authors: Ramírez-Gutiérrez Diana L. , Cuan-Urquizo Enrique , Fuentes-Aguilar Rita Q.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Demanding applications could benefit from the mathematical parametrization of lattice structures as this could lead not only to the characterization of structure–property relation but also facilitates the tailoring of the effective mechanical properties. This paper aims to characterize the mechanical performance of sine-based lattices. The characterization includes the results of in-plane Poisson’s ratio plates models, and the stiffness of additively manufactured lattice plates when loaded in the out-of-plane direction, with the objective of obtaining a relation with their geometrical parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

The geometrical parameter–Poisson’s ratio relationship was characterized via finite element (FE) simulations. The stiffness was also measured on additively manufactured polylactic acid lattice plates and contrasted with FE computations.

Findings

The characterization of auxetic lattice plates performed using in-plane and out-of-plane loading leads to key properties when deciding the geometry specific for applications: relative density, auxetic behavior and stiffness. Approximately 26% reduction of stiffness was observed between the square lattice and sine-based lattices of the same volume fraction.

Originality/value

Auxetic metamaterials are potential candidates for applications in biomedical engineering, smart sensors, sports and soft robotics. This paper aims to contribute to the existing gap in the study of auxetic metamaterials subjected to complex loading conditions, other than simple tension and compression, required for the mentioned applications.
Non-local and local criteria based on the extended finite element method (XFEM) for fracture simulation of anisotropic 3D-printed polymeric components
Authors: Bahrami Bahador , Mehraban Mohammad Reza , Koloor Seyed Saeid Rahimian , Ayatollahi Majid R.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop an efficient numerical procedure for simulating the effect of printing orientation, as one of the primary sources of anisotropy in 3D-printed components, on their fracture properties.

Design/methodology/approach

The extended finite element method and the cohesive zone model (XFEM-CZM) are used to develop subroutines for fracture simulation. The ability of two prevalent models, i.e. the continuous-varying fracture properties (CVF) model and the weak plane model (WPM), and a combination of both models (WPM-CVF) are evaluated to capture fracture behavior of the additively manufactured samples. These models are based on the non-local and local forms of the anisotropic maximum tangential stress criterion. The numerical models are assessed by comparing their results with experimental outcomes of 16 different configurations of polycarbonate samples printed using the material extrusion technique.

Findings

The results demonstrate that the CVF exaggerates the level of anisotropy, and the WPM cannot detect the mild anisotropy of 3D-printed parts, while the WPM-CVF produces the best results. Additionally, the non-local scheme outperforms the local approach in terms of finite element analysis performance, such as mesh dependency, robustness, etc.

Originality/value

This paper provides a method for modeling anisotropic fracture in 3D-printed objects. A new damage model based on a combination of two prevalent models is offered. Moreover, the developed subroutines for implementing the non-local anisotropic fracture criterion enable a reliable crack propagation simulation in media with varying degrees of complication, such as anisotropy.
Inequality and prosperity challenges in Bangladesh: experiences from Singapore
Authors: Ferdous Jannatul
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Inequality is increasing in Asia and the Pacific. This paper examines how inequality is affecting governments, communities and people in the Asia-Pacific region, given the 2030 Agenda's Sustainable Development Goals and the agenda's commitment to “leave no one behind.” Income inequality is just one element of larger economic and social inequalities in both developed and developing countries. Over the past decade, Bangladesh's economy has experienced one of the fastest growth rates in the world, supported by a narrowing demographic gap. The study focuses largely on the challenges of inequality and wealth distribution and uses the Singaporean experience to reduce inequality.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on the review of secondary literature and an insightful analysis of the review.

Findings

The Singapore Government has adopted four special budgets coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to help businesses cope with the economic difficulties caused by the epidemic, protect lives and create an economically and socially resilient Singapore. To sustain this increase in real gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, the Singapore Government continues to pursue growth-oriented policies. Importing technology and skilled labor, investing heavily in research and development, importing technology and developing export markets are some examples of these growth-oriented policies. The Singapore Government is committed to improving human capital through retraining and lifelong learning, which can be seen in all these growth-oriented policies. Bangladesh can learn more about reducing inequality and put these policies into practice.

Originality/value

This study has frankly revealed the inequality issues in Bangladesh. This study has spotted the scarcities of development and the accurate picture of achievement from the perspective of inequality and prosperity dissemination.
Rare but problematic: Tesla’s rare metals supply chain headache
Authors: McHugh Patrick , Ma Marco
Published: May 2023

Research methodology

This case was developed through secondary sources in response to the environmental concerns being raised in legal actions, company documents, online forums, trade press articles and academic research relative to Li mining practices, a key material in Li-ion batteries. The case focuses on Tesla’s actual and potential response to the environmental and humanitarian concerns being raised with its battery supply chain

Case overview/synopsis

Tesla was one of the world’s leading producers of Li-ion batteries which were critical to its EV and battery offerings. Unfortunately, sourcing rare earth metals, such as Co and Li, which are key components in these batteries, raise several environmental and social concerns. This case highlights senior leadership considerations critical to environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues, including environmental tradeoffs and issue management. The case highlights the complexity of strategic decision-making in innovative and ESG contexts and challenges the students to contextualize the trade-offs behind each decision and the potential impact to associated stakeholders.

Complexity academic level

Level: Upper undergraduate and masters. Majors: Management; technology & innovation management; environmental science; science, technology & society; supply chain management; business ethics. Courses: Strategic management (social issues in management, strategic management, technological innovation); technology & society; ethics, supply chain management. Time: 60- or 90-minute class session. Supporting texts (depending on course context): Strategic Management of Technological Innovation. Schilling, M. McGraw Hill, 2017. Contemporary Strategy Analysis. Grant, R. Wiley, 2017. Society, Ethics & Technology. Winston, M., Edelbach, R. Cengage, 2014. Principles of Supply Chain Management. Wisner, J., Tan, K., Leong, G. Cengage, 2019.
Integrating ontogeny and ontogenetic dependency into community assembly
Authors: Ramachandran Advyth , Huxley Jared D. , McFaul Shane , Schauer Lisa , Diez Jeff , Boone Rohan , Madsen‐Hepp Tesa , McCann Erin , Franklin Janet , Logan Danielle , Rose M. Brooke , Spasojevic Marko J.
Published: May 2023

Many studies of community assembly focus on a single ontogenetic stage (typically adults) when trying to infer assembly processes from patterns of biodiversity. This focus ignores the finding that assembly mechanisms may strongly differ between life‐stages, and the role of ontogenetic dependency: the mechanisms by which one life stage directly affects the composition of another life stage.

Within a 4‐ha forest dynamics plot in California USA, we explored how the relative importance of multiple assembly processes shifts across life stages and assessed ontogenetic dependency of seedlings on adults in woody plant communities. To assess variation in assembly processes across life stages, we examined how β‐diversity of adult and seedling communities were each influenced by space and 13 environmental variables (soils, topography) using distance‐based redundancy analysis and variation partitioning. We then assessed the ontogenetic dependency of seedlings on adults by including adult composition as a predictor in the seedling community variation partitioning.

We found differences between adult and seedling composition. For the adults, we found 18 species including pines, oaks and manzanitas characteristic of this mid‐elevation forest. For seedlings, we found 11 species, and that oaks made up 75% of all seedlings while only making up 45% of all adults. Adult β‐diversity was primarily explained by space (44.0%) with environment only explaining 18.6% and 37.4% unexplained. In contrast, most of the explained variation in seedling β‐diversity was due to ontogenetic dependency alone (13.6% explained by adult composition) with 1.6% explained by space and the environment jointly, and 62.8% unexplained.

Synthesis: Here, we describe a conceptual framework for integrating ontogeny more explicitly into community assembly research and demonstrate how different assembly processes structured adult and seedling β‐diversity in a temperate dry forest. While adult β‐diversity was largely driven by spatial processes, seedling β‐diversity was largely unexplained, with ontogenetic dependency comprising most of the explained variation. These patterns suggest that future assembly research should consider how assembly processes and their underlying mechanisms may shift with ontogeny, and that interactions between ontogenetic stages (ontogenetic dependency) are critical to consider when assessing variation in assembly processes.
Volunteers' perceived preparedness, training, experiences and satisfaction in a mass COVID‐19 pandemic vaccine clinic
Authors: Lin Li‐Chen , Nnaka Tonychris O. , Horton Shalonda E. , Todd Ana T. , Hanley Kathryn B. , Hecht Jacklyn , Guillet Nancy , Bogue Natalie , Morgan Stephanie , Johnson Karen
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we present formal and informal volunteers' perceived experiences of a mass vaccination clinic for COVID‐19 in central Texas. Volunteers at one or more of our team's vaccination events responded to an anonymous survey to share perceptions of their preparedness, training experiences, communication effectiveness and satisfaction, to help us identify opportunities to improve volunteer training and engagement for responses to pandemics. Overall, the volunteers perceived their work to be meaningful, felt prepared and were satisfied with their experiences as volunteers. A dedicated team that communicates well and emphasizes a team approach is key to success, especially in unprecedented situations such as the COVID‐19 pandemic. Implications for future volunteer training and involvement in disaster responses are discussed.
The Steppingstone Effect of Casual Employment in Australia: A Re‐Examination*
Authors: Cai Lixin
Published: May 2023

This study re‐examines the steppingstone effect of casual employment using data covering a much longer period than that used in Buddelmeyer and Wooden (Industrial Relations, 50(1), 109–30, 2011). For males the steppingstone effect found in this study is similar to that in Buddelmeyer and Wooden (Industrial Relations, 50(1), 109–30, 2011). Whereas Buddelmeyer and Wooden (Industrial Relations, 50(1), 109–30, 2011) find no steppingstone effect of casual employment for females, this study shows the effects occur to them. The positive result for females appears to be driven by weakened labour market conditions. This suggests that for females the steppingstone effect of casual employment could be sensitive to broad economic conditions.
Effects of ex situ conservation on diversity and function of the gut microbiota of the Tibetan wild ass (Equus kiang)
Authors: GAO Hongmei , JIANG Feng , ZHANG Jingjie , CHI Xiangwen , SONG Pengfei , LI Bin , CAI Zhenyuan , ZHANG Tongzuo
Published: May 2023

Ex situ conservation is the main method for the protection of endangered wildlife. To explore the effect of ex situ conservation on the gut microbiota of the kiang (Equus kiang), metagenomic sequencing combined with bioinformatics analysis was used to investigate the composition and function of the gut microbiota of the kiang. The results showed that ex situ conservation not only protected wildlife, but also affected the composition and function of gut microbiota, as well as the health of animals. In the zoo, the ratio of the relative abundance of Firmicutes to that of Bacteroidetes (F/B) is higher, clusters of potentially pathogenic bacteria (such as Catonella, Catonella, and Mycoplasma) are more numerous, the abundance of resistance genes is higher, and the abundance of metabolic functions is increased. The dynamic changes of the gut microbiota also played an important role in the nutritional absorption, energy metabolism, and environmental adaptation of the kiang. Improving the rearing environment and increasing food diversity play important roles for increasing the diversity of gut microbiota, reducing the spread of potentially pathogenic bacteria, and reducing diseases. In the wild, especially in winter and in food‐deficient areas, food supplementation can enhance the gut microbial homeostasis of wild animals and reduce the impact of crises. In depth studies of the gut microbial function of wildlife have important implications for improving ex situ conservation.
Quality of recovery following childbirth: a prospective, multicentre cohort study
Authors: O'Carroll J. E. , Zucco L. , Warwick E. , Arbane G. , Moonesinghe S. R. , El‐Boghdadly K. , Guo N. , Carvalho B. , Sultan P. ,   the ObsQoR Collaborators
Published: May 2023

To better understand outcomes in postpartum patients who receive peripartum anaesthetic interventions, we aimed to assess quality of recovery metrics following childbirth in a UK‐based multicentre cohort study. This study was performed during a 2‐week period in October 2021 to assess in‐ and outpatient post‐delivery recovery at 1 and 30 days postpartum. The following outcomes were reported: obstetric quality of recovery 10‐item measure (ObsQoR‐10); EuroQoL (EQ‐5D‐5L) survey; global health visual analogue scale; postpartum pain scores at rest and movement; length of hospital stay; readmission rates; and self‐reported complications. In total, 1638 patients were recruited and responses analysed from 1631 (99.6%) and 1282 patients (80%) at one and 30 days postpartum, respectively. Median (IQR [range]) length of stay postpartum was 39.3 (28.5–61.0 [17.7–513.4]), 40.3 (28.5–59.1 [17.8–220.9]), and 35.9 (27.1–54.1 [17.9–188.4]) h following caesarean, instrumental and vaginal deliveries, respectively. Median (IQR [range]) ObsQoR‐10 score was 75 ([62–86] 4–100) on day 1, with the lowest ObsQoR‐10 scores (worst recovery) reported by patients undergoing caesarean delivery. Of the 1282 patients, complications within the first 30 days postpartum were reported by 252 (19.7%) of all patients. Readmission to hospital within 30 days of discharge occurred in 69 patients (5.4%), with 49 (3%) for maternal reasons. These data can be used to inform patients regarding expected recovery trajectories; facilitate optimal discharge planning; and identify populations that may benefit most from targeted interventions to improve postpartum recovery experience.
Does an increase in adipose tissue ‘weight’ affect male fertility? A systematic review and meta‐analysis based on semen analysis performed using the WHO 2010 criteria
Authors: Santi Daniele , Lotti Francesco , Sparano Clotilde , Rastrelli Giulia , Isidori Andrea M. , Pivonello Rosario , Barbonetti Arcangelo , Salonia Andrea , Minhas Suks , Krausz Csilla , Vignozzi Linda , Maggi Mario , Corona Giovanni
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Obesity negatively impact on the metabolism of sex hormones, leading to reduced testosterone serum levels. However, how the obesity could negatively impact on the overall gonadal function, particularly on male fertility, remained unclear so far.

Objective

To systematically review evidences regarding the influence of body weight excess on the sperm production.

Methods

A meta‐analysis was conducted, searching all prospective and retrospective observational studies reporting male subjects older than 18 years old, with body weight excess from overweight to severe obesity were considered. Only studies using the V edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) manual for semen analysis interpretation were considered. No specific interventions were considered. Search was focused on studies comparing overweight/obese to normal weight subjects.

Results

Twenty‐eight studies were considered. Total sperm count and sperm progressive motility were significantly lower in overweight compared to normal weight subjects. Meta‐regression analyses demonstrated that patients’ age impacted on sperm parameters. Similarly, obese men showed lower sperm concentration, total sperm number, progressive and total motilities, and normal morphology lower than normal weight subjects. Reduced sperm concentration in obese men was influenced by age, smoking habit, varicocele, and total testosterone serum levels at meta‐regression analyses.

Conclusions

The male potential fertility is reduced in subjects with increased body weight, compared to normal weight men. The higher was the increased body weight, the worst was the sperm quantity/quality. This result comprehensively included obesity among non‐communicable risk factor for male infertility, shedding new lights on the negative impact of increased body weight on overall gonadal function.
A safe and effective use of caplacizumab in pregnancy‐related acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Odetola Oluwatobi , Martin Karlyn A. , Dreyer Marie , Rajan Priya , Zakarija Anaadriana , Stein Brady L.
Published: May 2023

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is not uncommonly seen in pregnancy, either with the first episode or with the exacerbation of known disease. The management of TTP in pregnancy can be challenging if there is refractoriness to the use of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) and high‐dose corticosteroids. Caplacizumab, a vWF‐directed humanized antibody fragment, is approved for the treatment of acquired TTP but there is sparse data on its use in pregnant patients. Antenatal and peripartum haemorrhage is a theoretical concern with the use of the medication in the obstetric population. However, as options for treatment of TTP in the patients who have refractory disease are significantly limited, off‐label use of caplacizumab to achieve disease control and prevent maternofetal morbidity and mortality is a reasonable consideration. This article described the successful use of caplacizumab in a pregnant patient with acquired TTP and the associated favourable outcome. The patient suffered an exacerbation following initial TPE and became refractory to both plasma exchange and high‐dose corticosteroids. Off‐label use of caplacizumab resulted in hematologic recovery and successful delivery of a healthy neonate. This case represents a contribution to the sparse literature on the use of this effective medication in an often‐challenging clinical situation.
Cenozoic evolution and deformation in the Eastern and Western Depression of the Liaohe Subbasin, Bohai Bay Basin: Insights from seismic data
Authors: Wang Qi , Sun Yonghe , Zhang Wanfu , Wang Yougong , Qin Suhua , Qiao Fengyuan , Xie Liang , Chen Guowen , Chu Rong
Published: May 2023

In rift basins with multiphase extension, the reactivation of pre‐existing faults plays an important role in the evolution and partitioning of deformation. The Liaohe Subbasin is located in the northeastern Bohai Bay Basin, and the Tanlu Fault Zone (TLFZ) runs through it and experienced extension and right‐lateral strike‐slip during the Cenozoic. Therefore, it is an ideal region for studying the deformation and evolution of rift basins. Based on 3D seismic data, we document the structure and fault characteristics of the Eastern and Western Depressions of the Liaohe Subbasin, identify periods of activity on normal and strike‐slip faults, and analyse the evolution and mechanisms of the Cenozoic evolution of this subbasin. Our main results show that (1) the main faults in the Western Depression exhibited extensional motion throughout the Palaeocene, while the Eastern Depression exhibited significant right‐lateral motion during the Oligocene following the early extension stage. (2) The Cenozoic evolution of the Liaohe Subbasin can be divided into four stages: (i) an initial extension stage (the Palaeocene to the Eocene), (ii) an extension stage with initial strike‐slip (Early Oligocene), (iii) a right‐lateral strike‐slip stage (Late Oligocene) and (iv) a postrift stage (after the Neogene). (3) The upwelling of mantle material caused by the subduction and rollback of the Pacific Plate led to the extension of the Liaohe Subbasin from the Palaeocene to the Eocene. The TLFZ began right‐lateral motion at 40 Ma and experienced strong right‐lateral deformation when rifting was weak in the Oligocene and enhanced deformation after 12 Ma. (4) In this multiphase rifting process, under moderate obliquity, strike‐slip deformation is obvious in the areas close to pre‐existing faults, while extensional deformation is obvious in areas farther away. (5) Cenozoic extension and strike‐slip deformation due to partitioning of strain are caused by obliquely reactivation of TLFZ. This study suggests that the reactivation of pre‐existing strike‐slip faults plays a major role in evolution and strain partitioning. Moreover, the results will contribute to future hydrocarbon exploration in multiphase rift basins.
Screening children with a history of maltreatment for post‐traumatic stress disorder in frontline social care organizations: A process evaluation
Authors: Devaney John , Walsh Colm , Bunting Lisa , Best Paul , Davidson Gavin , Mulholland Ciaran , French Declan , Duffy Michael
Published: May 2023

The use of standardized screening tools to identify trauma exposure and associated symptoms is commonly recommended as a key component in the development of trauma informed services and is seen as integral to facilitating access to evidence‐based therapies. However, there is limited evidence in the UK about the factors influencing the adoption of such tools into routine practice in children's social care. This paper presents the findings from a process evaluation of how practitioners implemented a screening tool for post‐traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression into their day‐to‐say practice and what worked or did not work during the process. The findings from this study highlight the potential benefits for both young people and practitioners, alongside some of the challenges involved. In particular, practitioners need to see the direct benefit for young people of being assessed. Additionally, practitioners value regular mentoring as they become more proficient in using standardized screening tools.
Conversation disruptions in early childhood predict executive functioning development: A longitudinal study
Authors: Carolus Amy E. , McLaughlin Katie A. , Lengua Lilliana J. , Rowe Meredith L. , Sheridan Margaret A. , Zalewski Maureen , Moran Lyndsey , Romeo Rachel R.
Published: May 2023

Conversational turn‐taking is a complex communicative skill that requires both linguistic and executive functioning (EF) skills, including processing input while simultaneously forming and inhibiting responses until one's turn. Adult‐child turn‐taking predicts children's linguistic, cognitive, and socioemotional development. However, little is understood about how disruptions to temporal contingency in turn‐taking, such as interruptions and overlapping speech, relate to cognitive outcomes, and how these relationships may vary across developmental contexts. In a longitudinal sample of 275 socioeconomically diverse mother‐child dyads (children 50% male, 65% White), we conducted pre‐registered examinations of whether the frequency of dyads’ conversational disruption during free play when children were 3 years old related to children's executive functioning (EF; 9 months later), self‐regulation skills (18 months later), and externalizing psychopathology in early adolescence (age 10–12 years). Contrary to hypotheses, more conversational disruptions significantly predicted higher inhibition skills, controlling for sex, age, income‐to‐needs (ITN), and language ability. Results were driven by maternal disruptions of the child's speech, and could not be explained by measures of overall talkativeness or interactiveness. Exploratory analyses revealed that ITN moderated these relationships, such that the positive effect of disruptions on inhibition was strongest for children from lower ITN backgrounds. We discuss how adult‐driven “cooperative overlap” may serve as a form of engaged participation that supports cognition and behavior in certain cultural contexts.