bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of genotype and production system on quality of tomato fruits and in vitro bile acids binding capacity
Authors: Lee Jisun H.J. , Jayaprakasha Guddadarangavvanahally K. , Avila Carlos A. , Crosby Kevin M. , Patil Bhimanagouda S.
Published: October 2020

Tomato is an important source of health‐promoting constituents, and researchers have focused on enhancing the content. In the present study, the influence of net‐house (NH) and open‐field (OF) growing conditions on physicochemical traits of tomatoes from eight different cultivars were evaluated. The tomato fruit qualities, such as color, total soluble solids (TSS), total acidity (TA), and pH were measured. Furthermore, ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization high‐resolution quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/ESI‐HR‐QTOFMS) was used for identification and quantification of health‐promoting compounds such as ascorbic acid, ß‐carotene, lycopene, and its isomers. In addition, in vitro bile acid binding capacity of all tomato samples was analyzed along with soluble and insoluble dietary fiber analysis as biofunctional properties. The results suggest that production systems influenced tomato fruit quality and biofunctional characteristics in a variety‐specific manner. Notably, TA and all‐trans‐ß‐carotene values were considerably influenced by production systems, and their levels were higher in the NH‐ and OF‐grown tomatoes, respectively. Our findings underline the importance of the rational choice of genotype and production system to obtain high‐quality tomatoes with enhanced desired traits for breeders and consumers.

Practical Application

Tomato is one of the nutritional high‐valued horticultural crops. The present study aimed to assess the impact of production systems, such as net‐house and open‐field conditions, on physicochemical traits and biofunctional properties, in vitro bile acid binding capacity of eight tomato varieties. This study supplies a good reference for the rational selection of genotype and production system to obtain high‐quality tomatoes with improved desired traits for breeders and consumers.
Intraoperative diagnosis of lymph node metastasis during segmentectomy for non‐small cell lung cancer by rapid immunohistochemistry using noncontact alternating current electric field mixing
Authors: Imai Kazuhiro , Nanjo Hiroshi , Takashima Shinogu , Hiroshima Yuko , Atari Maiko , Matsuo Tsubasa , Kuriyama Shoji , Ishii Yoshiaki , Wakamatsu Yuki , Sato Yusuke , Motoyama Satoru , Saito Hajime , Nomura Kyoko , Minamiya Yoshihiro
Published: October 2020

Background

Although lobectomy is considered the standard surgery for any non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), recent evidence indicates that for early NSCLCs segmentectomy may be equally effective. For segmentectomy to be oncologically safe, however, adequate intraoperative lymph node staging is essential. The aim of this study was to compare the results of a new rapid‐IHC system to the HE analysis for intraoperative nodal diagnosis in lung cancer patients considered for segmentectomy.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed the pathological reports from NSCLC resections over a six‐year period between 2014 and 2020. Using a new device for rapid‐IHC, we applied a high‐voltage, low‐frequency alternating current (AC) field, which mixes the antipancytokeratin antibody as the voltage is switched on/off. Rapid‐IHC can provide a nodal diagnosis within 20 minutes.

Results

Frozen sections from 106 resected lymph nodes from 70 patients were intraoperatively evaluated for metastasis. Of those, five nodes were deemed positive based on both HE staining and rapid‐IHC. In addition, rapid‐IHC alone detected isolated tumor cells in one hilar lymph node. Three cStage IA patients with nodal metastasis detected with HE staining and rapid‐IHC received complete lobectomies. Five‐year relapse‐free survival and overall survival among patients receiving segmentectomy with rapid‐IHC were 88.77% and 88.79%, respectively.

Conclusions

Rapid‐IHC driven by AC mixing is simple, highly accurate, and preserves nodal tissue for subsequent tests. This system can be used effectively for intraoperative nodal diagnosis.

Rapid immunohistochemistry based on alternating‐current field mixing (completed within 20 minutes) is simple and highly accurate. This system will assist clinicians when making intraoperative diagnoses of lymph node metastasis and deciding upon the appropriate surgical procedure in segmentectomy for lung cancer.

Key points

Significant findings of the study

Rapid immunohistochemistry driven by alternating‐current field mixing (completed within 20 minutes intraoperatively) is simple, highly accurate, and preserves lymph node tissue for subsequent pathological examination, including molecular assessments.

What this study adds

Segmentectomy for lung cancer is oncologically safe, but only when there is adequate intraoperative node staging. Rapid immunohistochemistry will assist clinicians when making intraoperative nodal diagnoses.
Management of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis during the COVID‐19 pandemic—An EAACI position paper
Authors: Klimek Ludger , Jutel Marek , Bousquet Jean , Agache Ioana , Akdis Cezmi A. , Hox Valerie , Gevaert Philippe , Tomazic Peter Valentin , Rondon Carmen , Cingi Cemal , Toppila‐Salmi Sanna , Karavelia Aspasia , Bozkurt Banu , Förster‐Ruhrmann Ulrike , Becker Sven , Chaker Adam M. , Wollenberg Barbara , Mösges Ralph , Huppertz Tilman , Hagemann Jan , Bachert Claus , Fokkens Wytske
Published: October 2020

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis is regarded as a chronic airway disease. According to WHO recommendations, it may be a risk factor for COVID‐19 patients. In most CRSwNP cases, the inflammatory changes affecting the nasal and paranasal mucous membranes are type‐2 (T2) inflammation endotypes.

Methods

The current knowledge on COVID‐19 and on treatment options for CRS was analyzed by a literature search in Medline, Pubmed, international guidelines, the Cochrane Library and the Internet.

Results

Based on international literature, on current recommendations by WHO and other international organizations as well as on previous experience, a panel of experts from EAACI and ARIA provided recommendations for the treatment of CRS during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Conclusion

Intranasal corticosteroids remain the standard treatment for CRS in patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Surgical treatments should be reduced to a minimum and surgery preserved for patients with local complications and for those with no other treatment options. Systemic corticosteroids should be avoided. Treatment with biologics can be continued with careful monitoring in noninfected patients and should be temporarily interrupted during the course of the COVID‐19 infection.
The effect of COVID‐19 on general anaesthesia rates for caesarean section. A cross‐sectional analysis of six hospitals in the north‐west of England
Authors: Bhatia K. , Columb M. , Bewlay A. , Eccles J. , Hulgur M. , Jayan N. , Lie J. , Verma D. , Parikh R.
Published: October 2020

At the onset of the global pandemic of COVID‐19 (SARS‐CoV‐2), guidelines recommended using regional anaesthesia for caesarean section in preference to general anaesthesia. National figures from the UK suggest that 8.75% of over 170,000 caesarean sections are performed under general anaesthetic. We explored whether general anaesthesia rates for caesarean section changed during the peak of the pandemic across six maternity units in the north‐west of England. We analysed anaesthetic information for 2480 caesarean sections across six maternity units from 1 April to 1 July 2020 (during the pandemic) and compared this information with data from 2555 caesarean sections performed at the same hospitals over a similar period in 2019. Primary outcome was change in general anaesthesia rate for caesarean section. Secondary outcomes included overall caesarean section rates, obstetric indications for caesarean section and regional to general anaesthesia conversion rates. A significant reduction (7.7 to 3.7%, p < 0.0001) in general anaesthetic rates, risk ratio (95%CI) 0.50 (0.39–0.93), was noted across hospitals during the pandemic. Regional to general anaesthesia conversion rates reduced (1.7 to 0.8%, p = 0.012), risk ratio (95%CI) 0.50 (0.29–0.86). Obstetric indications for caesarean sections did not change (p = 0.17) while the overall caesarean section rate increased (28.3 to 29.7%), risk ratio (95%CI) 1.02 (1.00–1.04), p = 0.052. Our analysis shows that general anaesthesia rates for caesarean section declined during the peak of the pandemic. Anaesthetic decision‐making, recommendations from anaesthetic guidelines and presence of an on‐site anaesthetic consultant in the delivery suite seem to be the key factors that influenced this decline.
Sovereign Atonement: (Non)citizenship, Territory, and State‐Making in Post‐Colonial South Asia
Authors: Ferdoush Md Azmeary
Published: October 2020

The former border enclaves of Bangladesh and India, which were small pieces of one state entirely surrounded by the other, existed as extraterritorial spaces from 1947 until 2015. Since these spaces were subject to state violence but remained completely excluded from the protections provided by courts, police, and government, they have historically been understood as spaces of exception that contained bare lives. After the exchange of enclaves in 2015, the situation changed dramatically as the state assumed an active role in incorporating new lands and citizens. Such an active role resulted in unique privileges exclusively for the enclave residents understood here as sovereign atonement. Drawing on field research in Bangladesh, however, the paper argues that it would be misleading to capture sovereign atonement as an effort to correct the past violence of extraterritorial exclusion; instead it must be understood through the primacy of territory in state‐making in post‐colonial South Asia.
The chromogranin A1‐373 fragment reveals how a single change in the protein sequence exerts strong cardioregulatory effects by engaging neuropilin‐1
Authors: Rocca Carmine , Grande Fedora , Granieri Maria Concetta , Colombo Barbara , De Bartolo Anna , Giordano Francesca , Rago Vittoria , Amodio Nicola , Tota Bruno , Cerra Maria Carmela , Rizzuti Bruno , Corti Angelo , Angelone Tommaso , Pasqua Teresa
Published: October 2020

Aim

Chromogranin A (CgA), a 439‐residue long protein, is an important cardiovascular regulator and a precursor of various bioactive fragments. Under stressful/pathological conditions, CgA cleavage generates the CgA1‐373 proangiogenic fragment. The present work investigated the possibility that human CgA1‐373 influences the mammalian cardiac performance, evaluating the role of its C‐terminal sequence.

Methods

Haemodynamic assessment was performed on an ex vivo Langendorff rat heart model, while mechanistic studies were performed using perfused hearts, H9c2 cardiomyocytes and in silico.

Results

On the ex vivo heart, CgA1‐373 elicited direct dose‐dependent negative inotropism and vasodilation, while CgA1‐372, a fragment lacking the C‐terminal R373 residue, was ineffective. Antibodies against the PGPQLR373 C‐terminal sequence abrogated the CgA1‐373‐dependent cardiac and coronary modulation. Ex vivo studies showed that CgA1‐373‐dependent effects were mediated by endothelium, neuropilin‐1 (NRP1) receptor, Akt/NO/Erk1,2 pathways, nitric oxide (NO) production and S‐nitrosylation. In vitro experiments on H9c2 cardiomyocytes indicated that CgA1‐373 also induced eNOS activation directly on the cardiomyocyte component by NRP1 targeting and NO involvement and provided beneficial action against isoproterenol‐induced hypertrophy, by reducing the increase in cell surface area and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) release. Molecular docking and all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations strongly supported the hypothesis that the C‐terminal R373 residue of CgA1‐373 directly interacts with NRP1.

Conclusion

These results suggest that CgA1‐373 is a new cardioregulatory hormone and that the removal of R373 represents a critical switch for turning “off” its cardioregulatory activity.
Pollution control mechanism for the Straits of Malacca and Singapore: The proposed designation as a “Special Area” under MARPOL 73/78
Authors: Mohd Rusli Mohd Hazmi bin , Dremliuga Roman , Puspitawati Dhiana
Published: October 2020

The Straits of Malacca and Singapore are two of the busiest maritime chokepoints in the world. As straits used for international navigation categorized under Article 37 of the Law of the Sea Convention 1982 (LOSC), littoral States of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore possess no rights to deny the exercise of the transit passage regime by foreign vessels plying these Straits. As a result, the marine environment of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore is gradually affected particularly by operational discharges from vessels. This article looks at the possibility of designating the Straits of Malacca and Singapore as a “Special Area” under the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973 as modified by the Protocol of 1978 (MARPOL 73/78). This paper concludes by recommending the most appropriate “Special Area” designation under any of the Annexes of MARPOL 73/78 for the Straits of Malacca and Singapore.
A phase I trial of the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol administered as single‐dose oil solution and single and multiple doses of a sublingual wafer in healthy volunteers
Authors: Hosseini Adele , McLachlan Andrew J. , Lickliter Jason D.
Published: October 2020

Aims

This study investigated the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics after administration of a specific Cannabis sativa cultivar extract, standardised to cannabidiol (CBD) content as sublingual wafer or oil formulation compared to nabiximols oromucosal spray.

Methods

For the single‐dose study, the design was an open‐label, 4‐way crossover in 12 healthy volunteers randomised to receive a sequence of 4 different single doses of CBD as a sublingual wafer (25 or 50 mg CBD), oil solution (50 mg CBD), or nabiximols oromucosal spray (20 mg CBD, 21.6 mg tetrahydrocannabinol). For the multiple‐dose study, sublingual wafer (50 mg CBD) was administered twice a day for 5 days.

Results

The extract was generally well tolerated by participants when administered in either wafer or oil form, with some adverse events, including mild or moderate somnolence, sedation and altered mood. The relative bioavailability of CBD after administration as a sublingual wafer was comparable with that of oil solution with 90% confidence interval of 83–131%. The median maximum concentrations of CBD after administration of oil solution and wafer was 9.4 and 11.9 ng mL−1, respectively. Maximum concentrations of CBD occurred 4 hours after administration, with an estimated terminal elimination half‐life of 6 hours. There was no statistically significant difference between the AUC0‐τ of CBD after administration of oil solution or wafer compared with nabiximols oromucosal spray.

Conclusion

Oil solution and sublingual wafer formulations of the extract standardised with CBD were well tolerated and achieved equivalent concentrations of CBD when compared to an available commercial nabiximols formulation.
F cell numbers are associated with an X‐linked genetic polymorphism and correlate with haematological parameters in patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: Urio Florence , Nkya Siana , Rooks Helen , Mgaya Josephine A. , Masamu Upendo , Zozimus Sangeda Raphael , Mmbando Bruno P. , Brumat Marco , Mselle Ted , Menzel Stephan , Luzzatto Lucio , Makani Julie
Published: October 2020

Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) with high fetal haemoglobin (HbF) tend to have a lower incidence of complications and longer survival due to inhibition of deoxyhaemoglobin S (HbS) polymerisation by HbF. HbF‐containing cells, namely F cells, are strongly influenced by genetic factors. We measured the percentage of F cells (Fcells%) in 222 patients with SCD to evaluate the association of (i) Fcells% with genetic HbF‐modifier variants and (ii) Fcells% with haematological parameters. There was a different distribution of Fcells% in females compared to males. The association of the B‐cell lymphoma/leukaemia 11A (BCL11A) locus with Fcells% (β = 8·238; P < 0·001) and with HbF% (β = 2·490; P < 0·001) was significant. All red cell parameters except for Hb and mean corpuscular Hb concentration levels in males and females were significantly different. The Fcells% was positively associated with mean cell Hb, mean cell volume and reticulocytes. To explain the significant gender difference in Fcells%, we tested for associations with single nucleotide polymorphisms on the X chromosomal region Xp22.2, where a genetic determinant of HbF had been previously hypothesised. We found in males a significant association with a SNP in FERM and PDZ domain‐containing protein 4 (FRMPD4) and adjacent to male‐specific lethal complex subunit 3 (MSL3). Thus, we have identified an X‐linked locus that could account for a significant fraction of the Fcells% variation in patients with SCD.
Wind creates crown shyness, asymmetry, and orientation in a tropical montane oak forest
Authors: Markham John , Fernández Otárola Mauricio
Published: October 2020

In a cloud forest dominated by Quercus costaricensis, the gap size between the crowns was consistent and crowns were asymmetrical, being elongated perpendicular to the prevailing wind direction. A wind storm of 20 m/s removed 1.5% of the leaves, consistent with the idea that wind abrasion shapes tree crowns.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material
Obesity and COVID‐19: A jigsaw puzzle with still missing pieces
Authors: Michalakis Konstantinos , Panagiotou Grigorios , Ilias Ioannis , Pazaitou‐Panayiotou Kalliopi
Published: October 2020

Apart from posing various mechanical and medical issues compromising general health, obesity is a major factor for respiratory tract infections, due to specific inflammation and immunological compromise. The burden of obesity on morbidity and mortality of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection/COVID‐19 is considerable. Herein, we aimed to search the literature and present to the readers pathophysiologic pathways that may associate obesity and COVID‐19. We present potential mechanisms, which might partly explain why patients with obesity are more prone to suffer from respiratory infections in the context of COVID‐19. Better understanding of these pathways could eventually guide management strategies and therapies for COVID‐19 in the future.
The prevalence of mental health disorders among young adults who use amphetamine‐type stimulants, compared to young adults who do not
Authors: Thoradeniya Malithi R. , Wessel Ellen L. , Pourmarzi Davoud , Najman Jake M. , Smirnov Andrew
Published: October 2020

Introduction and Aims

There is a lack of evidence regarding mental health disorder prevalence in people who use amphetamine‐type stimulants (ATS). This study compares prevalence in Australian young adults who used ATS and young adults who had never used, and examines potential predictors.

Design and Methods

Population‐based sampling was used to recruit young adults who used ATS (n = 224) and young adults who had never used ATS (n = 125). Thirty‐day prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD), generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder (PD), post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and mania/hypomania were assessed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview Short Scale. Adjusted prevalence ratios (APR) of mental disorders in people who used ATS and the comparison group were examined, and a prediction model was developed for people who used ATS.

Results

We found higher prevalence of PD (APR 4.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.14–19.07, P = 0.032) and PTSD (APR 1.68, 95% CI 1.10–2.55, P = 0.016) in people who used ATS, compared to the comparison group, adjusting for sociodemographic variables. Baseline methamphetamine use was positively associated with MDD (ARR 6.45, 95% CI 1.51–27.59, P = 0.012) and GAD (ARR 2.76, 95% CI 1.52–5.02, P = 0.001). Baseline ecstasy use was negatively associated with GAD (ARR 0.52, 95% CI 0.30–0.92, P = 0.025) and PD (ARR 0.15, 95% CI 0.05–0.48, P = 0.001).

Discussion and Conclusion

PTSD and PD appear to be more common in young adults who use ATS. However, the relationship between ATS use and mental disorders is complex, with divergent patterns of association for ecstasy and methamphetamine use. Mental health screening in people using ATS may improve treatment outcomes.
Patterns of genetic variation in European plant species depend on altitude
Authors: Reisch Christoph , Rosbakh Sergey
Published: October 2020

Aim

High mountain regions exhibit a much stronger environmental heterogeneity and a more complex glacial history than lowland regions. In this study, we compared the genetic variation of plant species occurring in different altitudinal zones. We tested the assumption that environmental and historic differences among high mountain regions and lowlands result in different patterns of genetic diversity and differentiation.

Location

Central Europe and the European Alps.

Methods

We first compiled a data set on genetic variation of 179 plant species occurring in Central Europe and the European Alps measured by AFLPs from the literature. Then, we compared genetic diversity and differentiation between species occurring in the lowland, montane, subalpine and alpine vegetation zone with the help of linear models. Geographic distance among sampled populations, plant frequency and three plant traits (life span, mating system and pollination mode) were included into the models, to account for their potential effects on level of genetic variation.

Results

Our analysis revealed different patterns of genetic variation in plant species occurring in the alpine and non‐alpine zone. Genetic differentiation was significantly higher among populations of species from the alpine than subalpine, montane or lowland zone. In contrast, genetic diversity was significantly lower within populations from the alpine zone compared to the other zones.

Main conclusions

We argue that the observed pattern of genetic variation most likely results from restricted gene flow, both past and present, among spatially and environmentally isolated populations in alpine habitats.
Who makes higher education graduates ready for work? The case of teacher education in Slovenia
Authors: Pavlin Samo
Published: October 2020

This paper starts by focusing on the problem of students' transition to working life in the domain of teacher education. Second, it problematises the teacher educator concept. Particular attention is paid to the question of which professionals regard themselves as teacher educators, and why. Third, it presents young teachers' acquisition of working experience and their transition from education to work in Slovenia as linked to three processes: practical and developmental work in schools during studies, traineeship period, and continuous professional learning. The general findings indicate that teacher education, training and professional development are all characterised by a sharp division between the role of academics (transmitters of theory), and senior teachers (facilitators of teachers' practical experiences). In our findings we demonstrate that young graduates lack a well‐considered and integrated acquisition of practical experience as they move from education to the labour market. The paper is concluded with a call for better understanding the role of academics in preparing graduates for the world of work.
Seeing through the static: the temporal dimension of plant–animal mutualistic interactions
Authors: CaraDonna Paul J. , Burkle Laura A. , Schwarz Benjamin , Resasco Julian , Knight Tiffany M. , Benadi Gita , Blüthgen Nico , Dormann Carsten F. , Fang Qiang , Fründ Jochen , Gauzens Benoit , Kaiser‐Bunbury Christopher N. , Winfree Rachael , Vázquez Diego P.
Published: October 2020

Most studies of plant–animal mutualistic networks have come from a temporally static perspective. This approach has revealed general patterns in network structure, but limits our ability to understand the ecological and evolutionary processes that shape these networks and to predict the consequences of natural and human‐driven disturbance on species interactions. We review the growing literature on temporal dynamics of plant–animal mutualistic networks including pollination, seed dispersal and ant defence mutualisms. We then discuss potential mechanisms underlying such variation in interactions, ranging from behavioural and physiological processes at the finest temporal scales to ecological and evolutionary processes at the broadest. We find that at the finest temporal scales (days, weeks, months) mutualistic interactions are highly dynamic, with considerable variation in network structure. At intermediate scales (years, decades), networks still exhibit high levels of temporal variation, but such variation appears to influence network properties only weakly. At the broadest temporal scales (many decades, centuries and beyond), continued shifts in interactions appear to reshape network structure, leading to dramatic community changes, including loss of species and function. Our review highlights the importance of considering the temporal dimension for understanding the ecology and evolution of complex webs of mutualistic interactions.
Dental and periodontal health in a Swiss population‐based sample of older adults: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Schmidt Julia C , Vogt Sandra , Imboden Medea , Schaffner Emmanuel , Grize Leticia , Zemp Elisabeth , Probst‐Hensch Nicole , Zitzmann Nicola U
Published: October 2020

In this cross‐sectional study, the prevalences of tooth loss, prosthetic dental restorations, and probing pocket depths (PPD) ≥4 mm, and their relationship to sociodemographic factors, were investigated in older Swiss adults. There were up to 1,673 participants aged ≥55 yr in the fourth survey of the Swiss Cohort Study on Air Pollution And Lung And Heart Disease In Adults (SAPALDIA4). Missing teeth, prosthetic dental restorations, and PPD ≥4 mm were recorded in clinical examinations conducted by field workers and compared with self‐reported information from questionnaires. Examination data showed that participants were missing five teeth on average, 74.8% had a prosthetic dental restoration, and 21.1% had PPD of ≥4 mm. The mean number of missing teeth and the prevalences of tooth loss, fixed dental prostheses, and removable dental prostheses were associated with age, education level, smoking status, and time since last visit to a dentist. Comparison of data obtained by field workers and that from self‐reports show a high level of agreement for the number of missing teeth and the prevalence of removable dental prostheses, but a lower level of agreement for self‐reports of fixed dental prostheses and periodontitis.
Intraspecific variation in landform engineering across a restored salt marsh shoreline
Authors: Bernik Brittany M. , Lumibao Candice Y. , Zengel Scott , Pardue John , Blum Michael J.
Published: October 2020

Ecosystem engineers that modify landforms can be valuable tools for restoring habitat, but their use has frequently resulted in unanticipated outcomes. Departures from expectations might arise because applications discount the possibility that geomorphic processes are influenced by heritable phenotypic variation. We conducted a field‐scale common garden experiment to assess whether shoreline erosion reflects intraspecific variation in the landform engineer Spartina alterniflora. Replicated plots on a shoreline denuded by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill were revegetated using plants from four genetically distinct sources: the local population, a nonlocal population, and two nursery stocks. We assessed variation in biomass, tissue nutrients, and functional traits alongside soil shear strength, surface elevation, and shoreline erosion rates over 2 years. We found that productivity, traits, nutrient content, and erosion rates varied according to plant provenance. Erosion reflected traits like root architecture more so than coarser metrics of growth. Erosion was significantly higher in plots with nonlocal plants that exhibited lower productivity, likely due to nitrogen limitation. Our results indicate that restoration practices should account for intraspecific variation in landform engineers and that in situ trials should be performed at sites slated for restoration to evaluate donor source suitability, particularly if introductions might modify local populations.
Seabird‐induced natural mortality of forage fish varies with fish abundance: Evidence from five ecosystems
Authors: Saraux Claire , Sydeman William J. , Piatt John F. , Anker‐Nilssen Tycho , Hentati‐Sundberg Jonas , Bertrand Sophie , Cury Philippe M. , Furness Robert W. , Mills James A. , Österblom Henrik , Passuni Giannina , Roux Jean‐Paul , Shannon Lynne J. , Crawford Robert J. M.
Published: October 2020

Forage fish populations often undergo large and rapid fluctuations in abundance. However, most of their predators are buffered against such fluctuations owing to their slower pace of life, which allows them to maintain more stable populations, at least during short periods of food scarcity. In this study, we investigated top‐down processes exerted by seabirds on forage fish stocks in five contrasted marine ecosystems, compiling numerous data sets on seabird counts, diets, energetic needs and prey energy content and abundance. Off Norway, South Africa, Peru, Sweden and Scotland, we found that predation pressure—estimated as the proportion of a fish stock consumed by seabirds—was generally low (median = 1%), but increased sharply at low levels of prey abundance. When prey biomass decreased below 15–18% of its maximum recorded value, predation by seabirds became a source of important additional pressure on prey stocks (~20% of prey biomass is consumed by seabirds). An earlier empirical study advocated for keeping forage stocks from falling below a threshold of 33% of long‐term maximum prey biomass in order to safeguard seabird breeding success, but here we further suggest that a threshold of 18% should be considered as a limit not to be exceeded for the sake of the forage fish themselves, and below which extra cautious management of fisheries may be required. Nevertheless, despite exceptionally high rates of predation on some occasions, predation pressure was not correlated with prey dynamics, suggesting an absence of prey entrapment due to seabirds alone in these five ecosystems.
The methylome is altered for plants in a high CO2 world: Insights into the response of a wild plant population to multigenerational exposure to elevated atmospheric [CO2]
Authors: Saban Jasmine M. , Watson‐Lazowski Alexander , Chapman Mark A. , Taylor Gail
Published: October 2020

Unravelling plant responses to rising atmospheric CO2 concentration ([CO2]) has largely focussed on plastic functional attributes to single generation [CO2] exposure. Quantifying the consequences of long‐term, decadal multigenerational exposure to elevated [CO2] and the genetic changes that may underpin evolutionary mechanisms with [CO2] as a driver remain largely unexplored. Here, we investigated both plastic and evolutionary plant responses to elevated [CO2] by applying multi‐omic technologies using populations of Plantago lanceolata L., grown in naturally high [CO2] for many generations in a CO2 spring. Seed from populations at the CO2 spring and an adjacent control site (ambient [CO2]) were grown in a common environment for one generation, and then offspring were grown in ambient or elevated [CO2] growth chambers. Low overall genetic differentiation between the CO2 spring and control site populations was found, with evidence of weak selection in exons. We identified evolutionary divergence in the DNA methylation profiles of populations derived from the spring relative to the control population, providing the first evidence that plant methylomes may respond to elevated [CO2] over multiple generations. In contrast, growth at elevated [CO2] for a single generation induced limited methylome remodelling (an order of magnitude fewer differential methylation events than observed between populations), although some of this appeared to be stably transgenerationally inherited. In all, 59 regions of the genome were identified where transcripts exhibiting differential expression (associated with single generation or long‐term natural exposure to elevated [CO2]) co‐located with sites of differential methylation or with single nucleotide polymorphisms exhibiting significant inter‐population divergence. This included genes in pathways known to respond to elevated [CO2], such as nitrogen use efficiency and stomatal patterning. This study provides the first indication that DNA methylation may contribute to plant adaptation to future atmospheric [CO2] and identifies several areas of the genome that are targets for future study.
Oral care knowledge, attitude and practice: Caregivers’ survey and observation
Authors: Chebib Najla , Waldburger Talina Clizia , Boire Sandrine , Prendki Virginie , Maniewicz Sabrina , Philippe Mojon , Müller Frauke
Published: October 2020

Objectives

This study aims to assess caregivers’ knowledge, perception and perceived barriers as well as their daily usual practice concerning oral care provision in a geriatric hospital.

Methods

A semi‐structured questionnaire was developed and administered to caregivers in a geriatric ward. Furthermore, oral care delivery to dependent and independent patients was clinically observed.

Results

One hundred and fifty‐two caregivers (60% nurses, 40% nursing aids) completed the survey (78% response rate). Clinical oral care was observed in 97 inpatients. Observations revealed that brushing was done in 94% of opportunities in independent patients but in only 55% of dependent patients. This corresponded to the frequency indicated in the questionnaire for independent elders (97%, n.s.), whereas it was significantly different for dependent elders (89%, P < .001). 95% of caregivers stated in the questionnaire never verifying self‐administered oral care, whereas 12.3% were actually observed verifying intraorally its efficiency (P = .07 chi‐squared test). 71% of the respondents stated storing the prostheses dry, and 8% stated that they reinserted it after cleaning. Caregivers’ observation revealed that 35.1% of prostheses were reinserted in the mouth, indicating a significantly higher rate than in the questionnaire (P < .05). Respondents felt that their training to perform oral hygiene measures was suboptimal (VAS 48 ± 34.4). Patients verbally refusing oral care were stated as a barrier by 14% of respondents and were witnessed in 15.6% of observation opportunities (n.s).

Conclusion

Various measures, such as hospital health policy, improved logistics or advanced hands‐on training, might help to converge the clinical practice towards the theoretical knowledge.
Challenges of long‐term vascular access in pediatric hemodialysis: Recommendations for practitioners
Authors: Raina Rupesh , Joshi Hirva , Chakraborty Ronith , Sethi Sidharth Kumar
Published: October 2020

Kidney transplantation is the preferred treatment of end‐stage renal disease in children. However, time to transplant varies, making a well‐functioning long‐term vascular access essential for performing hemodialysis efficiently and without disruption until a kidney becomes available. However, establishing long‐term vascular access in pediatric patients can present distinct challenges due to this population's unique characteristics, such as smaller body size and lower‐diameter blood vessels. There are three main pediatric long‐term vascular access options, which include central venous catheters (CVC), arteriovenous fistula (AVF), and arteriovenous graft (AVG). CVC are currently the most widely used modality, although various studies and guidelines recommend AVF or AVG as the preferred option. Although AVF should be used whenever possible, it is crucial that clinicians consider factors such as patient size, physical exam findings, comorbidities, predicted duration of treatment to decide on the most optimal long‐term vascular access modality. This article reviews the three long‐term vascular access methods in children and the benefits and complications of each.
Eradication therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection based on the antimicrobial susceptibility test in children: A single‐center study over 12 years
Authors: Miyata Eri , Kudo Takahiro , Ikuse Tamaki , Tokita Kazuhide , Arai Nobuyasu , Oka Itsuhiro , Kyodo Reiko , Sato Masamichi , Hosoi Kenji , Jimbo Keisuke , Aoyagi Yo , Ohtsuka Yoshikazu , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: October 2020

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection causes chronic gastritis, duodenal and to a lesser extent, gastric ulcers, and gastric cancer. Most H. pylori infections are acquired in childhood, and effective treatment of childhood infection is very important. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is useful for endoscopic diagnosis, mucosal tissue biopsy, and culture examination for H. pylori in children and adults. In this paper, we report results of susceptibility tests and eradication rates in H. pylori‐positive children who underwent EGD over a 12‐year period.

Materials and Methods

The subjects were H. pylori‐positive pediatric patients who had gastrointestinal symptoms and underwent EGD in the Department of Pediatrics, Juntendo University Hospital (January 2007–December 2018). Patients underwent serum IgG antibody tests, fecal antigen tests, or urea breath tests, and subsequently, culture tests by gastric mucosal biopsy during EGD. H. pylori positivity was defined as a positive result on both tests. Patients received triple therapy for 14 days using our regimen, and eradication was assessed at 2, 6, and 12 months after therapy.

Results

Forty‐five patients were H. pylori‐positive, and the overall clarithromycin (CAM) resistance rate was 71.1 % (32/45). The CAM resistance rate for the 2013–2018 period was significantly higher than the 2007–2012 period (52.6% vs. 84.6%, P < 0.05). According to the results of the antimicrobial susceptibility test, we prescribed effective antibiotics, and this resulted in a primary eradication rate of 97.7%.

Conclusions

We suggest that antimicrobial susceptibility testing can significantly improve rates of primary eradication of H. pylori infection.
Peer‐to‐peer lending and financial inclusion with altruistic investors
Authors: Berentsen Aleksander , Markheim Marina
Published: October 2020

Peer‐to‐peer lending platforms are increasingly important alternatives to traditional forms of credit intermediation for small value loans. There are high hopes that they improve financial inclusion and provide better terms for borrowers. To study these hopes, we introduce altruistic investors into a peer‐to‐peer model of credit intermediation. We find that altruistic investors do not improve financial inclusion but that the borrowing rates are lower than the ones obtained with self‐interested investors. Furthermore, investors with strong altruistic preferences are willing to finance projects which generate an expected loss to them. For a certain range of parameters, the model's allocation is observationally equivalent to a model with self‐interested investors with low bargaining power. Outside of this range, the model generates allocations that are not incentive feasible in a model with self‐interested investors.
Smart white lighting and multi‐mode optical modulations via photochromism in Dy‐doped KNN‐based transparent ceramics
Authors: Lin Cong , Wang Huajing , Wang Peng , Wu Xiao , Lin Tengfei , Sa BaiSheng , Cheng Yao , Zheng Xinghua , Yu Xing , Fang Changqing
Published: October 2020

Dy3+‐doped K0.5Na0.5NbO3‐Ba(Sc0.5Nb0.5)O3 transparent ferroelectric ceramics, a novel smart white‐lighting (WL) photochromic (PC) material, were prepared by conventional pressureless sintering. The ceramics exhibit high optical transmittance (~67% at 1800 nm), good photoluminescence (PL) performance, high‐quality WL, and moderate electrical properties. Meanwhile, high‐contrast modulations of optical transmittance and PL intensity (with the maximal modulating values of 20.5% and 57.4%, respectively) have been realized via PC behavior by alternating the illumination of UV light and thermal stimulus. In particular, the reversible modulations of WL intensity, color coordinates, correlated color temperature, and color purity have been achieved through the PC regulation to the intensity ratio of yellow/blue emission. Definitively, based on the effect of intrinsic defects and extrinsic defects (Ba4+/Sc3‐x) on the PL properties, the PC mechanism in KNN‐based material has been further complemented. The transparent ceramics should be a promising material in white LEDs and optoelectronic multifunctional devices.
Discovery from Discomfort; Embracing the Liminal in Auto‐Ethnographic, Biographical and Arts‐Based Research Methods
Authors: Sutton Emma
Published: October 2020

In this article I offer reflections on my experiences of using autoethnographic and arts‐based methodology in order to research within the realm of arts education. This approach enabled me to deeply analyse my own lived‐experiences and interact with the work and responses of others. Liminal spaces between identities of artist, researcher and teacher are explored through the creation of artwork, using discarded and leftover marks found in the classroom or recorded through the lens of a camera. Zones of discovery emerge from embracing initial discomfort. The images and photographs used throughout this research project, alongside the glimpses into both my own and interviewees’ lives, professional and personal, generate stories that begin to create a larger narrative. It has been recognised that stories can be found in moments and the visual representations offered by participants and through my own mark‐making and recording frame these moments. Ideas and findings were recorded as they emerged using a research journal and sketchbook, intentionally accepting my own contribution to the research, building on this, as opposed to pretending, that our interests and ways of making sense of others is, or should be, divorced from the people and experiences we are. This approach provided rich insights. Through shared experiences I felt that there was the space and opportunity for collaboratively generating meaning with participants as ideas, feelings and issues were clarified, mapped and negotiated through discussion, using both image and word.
Using niche centrality within the scope of the nearly neutral theory of evolution to predict genetic diversity in a tropical conifer species‐pair
Authors: Cruz‐Nicolás Jorge , Giles‐Pérez Gustavo I. , Lira‐Noriega Andrés , Martínez‐Méndez Norberto , Aguirre‐Planter Erika , Eguiarte Luis E. , Jaramillo‐Correa Juan P.
Published: October 2020

Aim

Estimating genetic diversity is key for understanging biogeographic and evolutionary processes. However, gathering genetic information is not feasible for all taxa or populations, particularly in the tropical regions. Identifying proxies for inferring such values has thus become essential. Here, we built on the niche centrality hypothesis (NCH; or central‐abundance hypothesis) and the nearly neutral theory of evolution (NNT) to identify some of such proxies using a montane tropical conifer species‐pair as model. The NCH predicts more genetic diversity under optimal ecological conditions, which should also allow for more efficient purifying selection, according to the NNT.

Location

The Transmexican Volcanic Belt, central Mexico.

Taxa

A fir species‐pair endemic to central Mexico, Abies flinckii and A.religiosa.

Methods

We estimated patterns of genetic diversity from nuclear SSRs (A, HE), and gene‐coding sequences (πS, πN), together with the efficacy of purifying selection, measured as πN/πS. After testing for niche overlap, we used several geographic and ecological proxies (i.e. longitude, latitude, elevation, estimated area and distance to the niche centroid in the present and in the LGM) to predict genetic diversity and πN/πS using general linear models.

Results

Populations at the west of the Trans Mexican Volcanic Belt (TVB) had lower genetic diversity than populations in the east of this mountain chain. Both species had significant niche overlap. The principal predictors for neutral genetic diversity (HE, A and πS) were longitude and latitude, followed by the current distance to the niche centroid; the efficiency of purifying selection was mostly accounted for by the current distance to the niche centroid (which was also correlated with elevation). No correlation was observed between genetic diversity or πN/πS and current population area.

Main conclusions

Historical and ecological factors have to be taken into account for explaining the amounts of genetic diversity in mountain tropical species. Following the NTT, populations closer to the niche centroid are more efficient at eliminating slightly deleterious mutations than marginal stands, independently of their size or geographic location (longitude). Expanding the central‐abundance theory within the scope of the NTT might help reconciling conflicting views concerning the extent of its empirical support.
Variability in the fundamental versus realized niches of North American mangroves
Authors: Bardou Rémi , Parker John D. , Feller Ilka C. , Cavanaugh Kyle C.
Published: October 2020

Aim

Climate change is leading to large‐scale shifts in species’ range limits. Mangroves, for example, are encroaching into saltmarshes at numerous tropical–temperate transition zones. However, mangrove expansion varies geographically, in large part because mangroves might not be fully occupying their fundamental niches across their range limits. Here we characterize and compare the fundamental versus realized thermal niches of two mangrove species found near their northern range limits on both coasts of North America.

Location

Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America.

Taxa

Red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle), black mangrove (Avicennia germinans).

Methods

Red and black mangrove propagules were collected near range limits on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts and experimentally exposed to simulated overnight freezes ranging from −0.5 to −15°C, and grown in water temperatures ranging from 13 to 25°C. We then modelled range‐specific distributions based on threshold survival responses to cold treatments and compared these predictions to current distributions and climate envelopes.

Results

On the Atlantic coast, laboratory physiological thresholds closely matched realized distributions for both black and red mangroves. The Pacific black mangroves were less tolerant to freezes than the Atlantic populations, but laboratory determined thresholds essentially matched their realized distributions. In contrast, Pacific red mangroves were surprisingly freeze tolerant, and our laboratory threshold‐based model predicted suitable habitat far north of their current range limit. Our cold‐water tolerance experiments indicated that mangroves can tolerate chronically colder water temperatures than are currently experienced at either range limit.

Main conclusions

On its own, cold water temperature does not seem to be a limiting factor on either coast of North America. On the Atlantic coast, range limits for both mangrove species are set by extreme cold air temperatures and rapidly shifting in response to climate change. On the warmer but more arid Pacific coast, range limits for black mangroves only appear limited by cold air temperatures, but neither species seems to be undergoing climate change‐related migration. This supports the importance of other range‐restricting factors, such as aridity or dispersal limitation. Thus, distribution models need to incorporate species and range‐specific physiological data to predict the effects of climate change on population‐specific range limits.