bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
U‐Pb Zircon and Re‐Os Molybdenite Geochronology of the W‐Mo Mineralized Region of South Qinling, China, and their Tectonic Implications
Authors: HAN Ke , YANG Xingke , CHAO Huixia , HE Hujun , RUAN Shiqi , GAO Yunfeng , ZHANG Weisheng , ZHU Wei , JIN Gang
Published: February 2021

A W‐Mo mineralized region is located along the northern margin of the South Qinling tectonic belt of China. W‐Mo mineralization occurs mainly in Cambrian–Ordovician clastic and carbonate rocks, and the ore bodies are structurally controlled by NW–SE‐ and NNE–SSW‐striking faults. Evidence for magmatism in the area is widespread and is dominated by intermediate–felsic intrusives or apophyses, such as the Dongjiangkou, Yanzhiba, Lanbandeng, and Sihaiping granitic bodies. Quartz‐vein‐type mineralization and fault‐controlled skarn‐type mineralization dominate the ore systems, with additional enrichment in residual deposits. At present, there are few or insufficient studies on (1) the age of mineralization, (2) the relationship between intermediate–felsic granite and W‐Mo mineralization, (3) the source of ore‐forming materials, and (4) the metallogenic and tectonic setting of the mineralized area. In this paper, we present geochronology results for numerous intrusive granitic bodies in the South Qinling tectonic belt. U‐Pb zircon geochronology of the Lanbandeng monzogranite and Wangjiaping biotite monzogranite yields ages of 222.7 ± 2.3 and 201.9 ± 1.8 Ma, respectively. In contrast to the Late Triassic age of the Lanbandeng monzogranite, the age of the newly discovered Wangjiaping biotite monzogranite places it at the Triassic–Jurassic boundary. Re‐Os molybdenite geochronology on the Qipangou W‐Mo deposit yielded a model age of 199.7 ± 3.9 Ma, indicating the deposit formed in the early Yanshanian period of the Early Jurassic. Granitoid intrusions in the mineralized area are characterized by composite granite bodies that crystallized at ca. 240–190 Ma. While there were multiple stages of intrusion, most occurred at 210–220 Ma, with waning magmatic activity at 200–190 Ma. The Re‐Os age of molybdenite in the region is ca. 200–190 Ma, which may represent a newly discovered period of W‐Mo metallogenesis that occurred during the final stages of magmatism. The heat associated with this magmatism drove ore formation and might have provided additional ore‐forming components for metallogenesis (represented by the Wangjiaping biotite monzogranite). Ore materials in the mineralized area were derived from mixed crustal and mantle sources. Enrichment of the region occurred during intracontinental orogenesis in the late Indosinian–Yanshanian, subsequent to the main Indosinian collision. At this time, the tectonic environment was dominated by extension and strike‐slip motion.
Lithofacies and Pore Structure of Fine‐grained Sedimentary Rocks of Qing‐1 Member of Cretaceous in the Southern Songliao Basin
Authors: LIN Lamei , LIU Su , XU Yang , LI Fulai
Published: February 2021

Fine‐grained sedimentary rocks often contain hydrocarbon and mineral resources. Compared with coarse‐grained sedimentary rocks, fine‐grained sedimentary rocks are less studied. To elucidate the lithofacies and pore structure of lacustrine fine‐grained rocks, the 340.6 m continuous core of Cretaceous Qing‐1 Member from five wells in the southern central depression of the Songliao Basin was analyzed using X‐ray diffraction, Rock‐Eval pyrolysis, low‐temperature nitrogen adsorption, high‐pressure mercury injection, argon ion polishing‐field emission scanning electron microscopy, and laser scanning confocal microscopy. Based on mineral compositions, organic matter abundance and sedimentary structure, lacustrine fine‐grained rocks in the study area were divided into ten lithofacies, with their spatial distributions mainly influenced by tectonic cycle, climate cycle and provenance. Furthermore, pore structure characteristics of different lithofacies are summarized. (1) The siliceous mudstone lithofacies with low TOC content and the laminated/layered clay‐bearing siliceous mudstone lithofacies with medium TOC content have the highest proportion of first‐class pores (diameter > 100 nm), making it the most favourable lithofacies for the accumulation of shale oil and shale gas. (2) The massive clay‐bearing siliceous mudstone lithofacies with low TOC content has the highest proportion of second‐class pores (diameter ranges from 10 to 100 nm), making it a favourable lithofacies for the enrichment of shale gas. (3) The massive clay‐bearing siliceous mudstone lithofacies with high TOC content has the highest proportion of third‐class pores (diameter < 10 nm), making it intermediate in gas storage and flow. Laser confocal oil analysis shows that the heavy component of oil is mainly distributed in the clay lamina, while the light part with higher mobility is mainly concentrated in the silty lamina.
Association of the genetic variants in the endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 2 gene with ankylosing spondylitis susceptibility
Authors: Ebrazeh Mehrdad , Ezzatifar Fatemeh , Torkamandi Shahram , Mohammadi Fatemeh Sadat , Salimifard Sevda , Gowhari Shabgah Arezoo , Hemmatzadeh Maryam , Aslani Saeed , Babaie Farhad , Jadidi‐Niaragh Farhad , Gholizadeh Navashenaq Jamshid , Mohammadi Hamed
Published: February 2021

Background

Genetic polymorphisms in the endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase gene ERAP2 has been attributed with the etiopathogenesis of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Here we assessed the association of ERAP2 gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with AS predisposition in Iranian patients and determined their effect on the inflammatory state of the patients.

Methods

For genotyping of rs2548538, rs2287988, and rs17408150 SNPs using a real‐time allelic discrimination approach, DNA was extracted from the whole blood of 250 AS patients and 250 healthy individuals. RNA of the peripheral blood mononuclear cells was separated, cDNA was synthesized, and transcriptional levels of cytokines, including interleukin (IL)‐17A, IL‐23, IL‐10, and transforming growth factor‐β, were measured. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure the serum concentration on the cytokines.

Results

Three ERAP2 gene SNPs were not associated significantly with AS risk. Nonetheless, rs2287988 and rs17408150 SNPs showed statistically significant association with susceptibility to the disease in those AS patients who were positive for human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐B27. Transcriptional level and serum concentration of IL‐17A and IL‐23 were higher, but those of IL‐10 were lower in both AS patients and the HLA‐B27‐positive patient group relative to the control group. Nevertheless, ERAP2 gene SNPs in the HLA‐B27‐positive AS patients did not affect the transcription level and serum concentration of cytokines.

Conclusions

ERAP2 gene rs2287988 and rs17408150 SNPs are associated with susceptibility to AS, but they are probably not determining the levels of IL‐17A, IL‐23, and IL‐10 in this disease.
Pathogenesis of Salmonella Newport to BALB/c mice when internalized into cherry tomatoes
Authors: Mancilla‐Becerra Lilia Mercedes , Orozco‐García Adriana Guadalupe , Armas‐Puente Priscila , Martínez‐Chávez Liliana , Barba‐León Jeannette
Published: February 2021

Salmonella Newport is a serovar frequently associated with outbreaks caused by consumption of raw tomatoes. This study tested the internalization of S. Newport‐45 into cherry tomatoes and its resulting pathogenicity in vivo. Pathogenicity of S. Newport‐45 was tested in BALB/c mice inoculated orally with either LB grown or cherry tomatoes homogenates internally contaminated with S. Newport‐45. CFU of S. Newport‐45 was recovered from the gastrointestinal tract, liver and spleen of the inoculated animals. Similar loads (p > 0.05) were recovered from the GI tract of BALB/c mice inoculated with S. Newport‐45 grown in LB or with cherry tomato homogenates internally contaminated. Spread of S. Newport‐45 to the liver of mice increased (p < 0.05) when they were inoculated with homogenates of cherry tomatoes internally contaminated with S. Newport‐45 stored for 3 days compared with bacteria grown in LB. Salmonella Newport‐45 hilA and rpoS genes were transcribed when the bacteria were inside the cherry tomato. The results obtained in this study show S. Newport‐45 pathogenicity when it is internalized in a raw consumption fruit such as cherry tomato.
ATF3 drives senescence by reconstructing accessible chromatin profiles
Authors: Zhang Chao , Zhang Xuebin , Huang Li , Guan Yiting , Huang Xiaoke , Tian Xiao‐Li , Zhang Lijun , Tao Wei
Published: February 2021

Chromatin organization and transcriptional profiles undergo tremendous reordering during senescence. However, uncovering the regulatory mechanisms between chromatin reconstruction and gene expression in senescence has been elusive. Here, we depicted the landscapes of both chromatin accessibility and gene expression to reveal gene regulatory networks in human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) senescence and found that chromatin accessibilities are redistributed during senescence. Particularly, the intergenic chromatin was massively shifted with the increased accessibility regions (IARs) or decreased accessibility regions (DARs), which were mainly enhancer elements. We defined AP‐1 transcription factor family as being responsible for driving chromatin accessibility reconstruction in IARs, where low DNA methylation improved binding affinity of AP‐1 and further increased the chromatin accessibility. Among AP‐1 transcription factors, we confirmed ATF3 was critical to reconstruct chromatin accessibility to promote cellular senescence. Our results described a dynamic landscape of chromatin accessibility whose remodeling contributes to the senescence program, we identified that AP‐1 was capable of reorganizing the chromatin accessibility profile to regulate senescence.
Upland rush management advocated by agri‐environment schemes increases predation of artificial wader nests
Authors: Kelly L. A. , Douglas D. J. T. , Shurmer M. P. , Evans K. L.
Published: February 2021

Farmland birds, including breeding waders, have declined across Europe. One frequently advocated strategy to facilitate population recovery is using agri‐environment schemes (AES) to improve vegetation structure. A key example is cutting dense rush Juncus to open the sward which aims to increase the abundance of wading birds, for example by improving foraging conditions. Effects on breeding success are, however, unknown. This is a critical knowledge gap as high nest and chick predation rates are a key driver of wader declines. For wader species that nest across a range of sward structures, for example Eurasian curlew Numenius arquata and common snipe Gallinago gallinago, converting denser swards to more open ones may reduce opportunities for nest concealment and thus increase predation risk. Due to the difficulties of locating large numbers of wader nests, we assess rush management impacts on nest predation risk using artificial wader nests (n = 184) in two upland areas of England, using fields in which rush is managed according to AES prescriptions (treatment; n = 21) or un‐managed (control; n = 22) fields. Daily nest predation rates (DPRs) were twice as high in treatment (0.064 day−1) than control fields (0.027 day−1). Within treatment fields, DPRs were twice as high for nests in cut rush patches (0.108 day−1) than in uncut rush (0.055 day−1). Modelling links higher DPRs associated with rush cutting to the resultant shorter and less dense vegetation. Our results highlight the need to assess how AES prescriptions that alter vegetation structure impact all aspects of the target species’ fitness and thus determine population recovery. Studies using real wader nests should test whether AES rush management inadvertently creates an ecological trap by altering vegetation structure, and identify the sward structure and configuration that optimizes trade‐offs between foraging conditions and nest predation risk.
Plant–animal interactions of understory species in an area of tropical rainforest, north‐eastern Brazil
Authors: da Silva Leonardo Barbosa , da Silva Jacilene Bezerra , Souza Camila Silveira , Menck Guimarães Murilo , Sales Margareth Ferreira , de Castro Cibele Cardoso
Published: February 2021

We studied the reproductive attributes (reproductive phenology, pollination and seed dispersion) of understory woody species from a rainforest area in the Araripe‐Apodi National Forest (FLONA), NE Brazil. The FLONA has a representative number of fauna and flora species that are important for the local climatic, hydrological and ecological equilibrium of the region. The community was composed of 68 species distributed in 43 genera and 26 plant families. Melastomataceae was the family with the highest species richness. Most species (61.76%) shared floral traits that promoted bee pollination, for example white, dish type, medium‐sized flowers with pollen as the main resource. Zoochory was the most frequent dispersion system (76.47%), followed by autochory (16.17%) and anemochory (7.35%). Resource distribution (flowers and fruits) was uniform throughout the year, and pollination and dispersion networks were significantly modular, composed of five and four modules, respectively. In the pollination network, bees occurred in almost all modules, but flies, hummingbirds, butterflies and hawk moths were more restricted to certain modules, partially highlighting the idea of pollination syndromes. In the dispersion network, the modules were composed of birds from different families; only one module was comprised of all sampled mammals. Our results show that most species depend on the action of biotic vectors during their reproductive processes (pollination and dispersal). Those interactions are fundamental for maintaining biological diversity in different tropical ecosystems.
Comparative analysis of different periapical index systems used in cone‐beam computed tomography
Authors: Sisli Selen Nihal , Yılmaz Büşra , Özpolat Zeynep , Gülşahı Kamran
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to compare the three index systems designed for cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) in terms of intra‐ and inter‐observer agreement. 117 root‐filled teeth with or without periapical radiolucency from 77 of already existing CBCT images were chosen randomly. Two observers evaluated the periapical status of the selected teeth and graded the scores twice using CBCT periapical index (CBCTPAI), endodontic radiolucency index (ERI) and complex periapical index (COPI) part of the periapical and endodontic status scale (PESS), respectively. The researchers' self‐agreement kappa values ranged from substantial to almost perfect. A moderate inter‐observer agreement was present for the COPI and ERI, whereas a fair agreement was present for CBCTPAI. The researchers' ICC for the inter‐observer reliability of CBCTPAI, ERI and COPI was 0.75, 0.77 and 0.80, respectively. COPI had the highest self‐agreement and inter‐observer reliability. ERI showed the highest intra‐observer variation, whereas CBCTPAI showed the highest inter‐observer variation.
Effect of water level and water quality on small‐sized and juvenile fish assemblages in the littoral zones of the Zambezi/Chobe floodplain
Authors: Simasiku Evans Kamwi , Hay Clinton , Abah James
Published: February 2021

The effect of flooding phase and water quality on the littoral fish species of the Zambezi/Chobe floodplain was assessed between March 2017 and February 2018. Using the similarity percentage analyses (SIMPER), a 61.9% dissimilarity was detected in fish assemblages among the four flooding phases of the Zambezi/Chobe floodplain (rising, peak, recession and low flooding phase). Cichlids (63.1%) were the most dominant taxa during the peak flooding phase while cyprinids were dominant during the rising (40.7%), recession (45.3%) and low flooding phases (40.9%), respectively. Juveniles of the two commercially important species, Oreochromis andersonii and Coptodon rendalli, were among the four abundant species across the four flooding phases of the Zambezi/Chobe floodplain. Higher densities of these two species were in synchrony with the peak flooding phase, characterised by high levels of dissolved oxygen (5.7 ± 1.0 mg/L), neutral pH (7.9) and moderate water temperature (27.6 ± 1.1°C). During the flood recession phase, a severe decline in juvenile of the commercially important species (O. andersonii and C. rendalli) coincided with fish migration off the littoral zone into the main river at a mean size between 70 and 80 mm SL. Generally, the observed variations in the fish species composition during the different stages of flooding might reflect the influence of water quality and water volume to sustain large fish assemblages on the littoral zone of the Zambezi/Chobe floodplain. Any change in the natural flow and reduction in water volume of the Zambezi/Chobe floodplain might negatively affect the recruitment of juvenile fish into adult populations.
How Chinese Agricultural Immigrants Affect Farmers in the Russian Far East
Authors: Yi Fujin , Gudaj Richard T. , Arefieva Valeria , Mishchuk Svetlana , Potenko Tatiana A. , Yanbykh Renata , Zhou Jiayi , Zuenko Ivan
Published: February 2021

China’s international position as a net creditor nation provides it with foreign exchange that it has invested in Asian and African countries. One example is China's investment in the Russian Far East (RFE). Thousands of Chinese agricultural workers have migrated to the RFE in recent decades. They are often welcomed by Russian farmers who face a labor shortage and by local residents who can buy cheap vegetables from them, but there are others who resent their presence in the region as competitors. Our study is the first empirical study of this relationship. Our results demonstrate economic benefits to the Russian households. There are, however, some negative repercussions of Chinese farmers in the RFE, and the governments of both China and Russia need to manage the situation wisely.
Chinese Migrant Farmers in the Russian Far East: Impact on Rural Labor Markets
Authors: Yi Fujin , Gudaj Richard T. , Arefieva Valeria , Yanbykh Renata , Mishchuk Svetlana , Potenko Tatiana A. , Zhou Jiayi , Zuenko Ivan
Published: February 2021

The close proximity of China and Russia, the activities of Chinese farmers, and the reduction in Russian labor resources have created job opportunities for Chinese workers in the Russian Far East (RFE). Chinese workers fill a labor shortage in agriculture, but little research has been done on them. We developed an econometric model to test the effects of Chinese intermittent migration on labor markets in the RFE. We found the proximity of Chinese to Russian farms reduces wages for both Russian and Chinese workers and increases their part‐time employment on Russian farms. The greater availability of Chinese workers in the region results in lower number of family members working on Russian farms. Thus, the influx of Chinese workers may contribute to demographic shifts in the Russian population.
Covid‐19 changes to maternity care: Experiences of Australian doctors
Authors: Szabo Rebecca A. , Wilson Alyce N. , Homer Caroline , Vasilevski Vidanka , Sweet Linda , Wynter Karen , Hauck Yvonne , Kuliukas Lesley , Bradfield Zoe
Published: February 2021

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic meant rapid changes to Australian maternity services. All maternity services have undertaken significant changes in relation to policies, service delivery and practices and increased use of personal protective equipment.

Aims

The aim of this study was to explore and describe doctors’ experiences of providing maternity care during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Australia.

Methods

A national online survey followed by semi‐structured interviews with a cohort of participants was conducted during the first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic in Australia (May–June 2020). Participants were recruited through social media networks. Eighty‐six doctors completed the survey, and eight were interviewed.

Results

Almost all doctors reported rapid development of new guidelines and major changes to health service delivery. Professional colleges were the main source of new information about COVID‐19. Most (89%) doctors felt sufficiently informed to care for women with COVID‐19. Less than half of doctors felt changes would be temporary. Doctors described workforce disruptions with associated personal and professional impacts. The ability to access and process up‐to‐date, evidence‐based information was perceived as important. Doctors acknowledged that altered models of care had increased pregnant women’s anxiety and uncertainty. All doctors described silver linings from sector changes.

Conclusions

This study provides unique insights into doctors’ experiences of providing maternity care during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Australia. Findings have immediate relevance to the maternity sector now and into the future. Lessons learnt provide an opportunity to reshape the maternity sector to better prepare for future public health crises.
Income and life satisfaction of dual‐earner couples: A dyadic study
Authors: Chen Chen , Huang Fei , Wang Kexin , Jing Xiaojuan , Zhou Mingjie , Zhang Jianxin
Published: February 2021

Many studies have examined the roles of absolute income and relative income in subjective well‐being. However, previous studies focused mainly on individual‐level indicators and neglected the interdependent effects of each spouse’s income in the family context. In this study, we focused on the relationships among absolute income (real income), relative income (subjective evaluation of the family economic status), and life satisfaction. We applied the actor–partner interdependence mediation model, and our results, which we derived from 1,744 Chinese dyadic samples, indicated that absolute and relative income were crucial indicators of subjective well‐being. Interdependencies existed between husbands and wives, but the effects were asymmetrical. Specifically, wives cared more about their husbands’ absolute income, whereas husbands cared more about their wives’ subjective evaluation of the family’s economic status. In addition, the relationship between absolute income and life satisfaction was mediated by the wife’s evaluation of the family’s economic status. The theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Whole genome sequencing identifies novel genetic mutations in patients with eczema herpeticum
Authors: Bin Lianghua , Malley Claire , Taylor Patricia , Preethi Boorgula Meher , Chavan Sameer , Daya Michelle , Mathias Malaika , Shankar Gautam , Rafaels Nicholas , Vergara Candelaria , Potee Joseph , Campbell Monica , Hanifin Jon M. , Simpson Eric , Schneider Lynda C. , Gallo Richard L. , Hata Tissa , Paller Amy S. , De Benedetto Anna , Beck Lisa A. , Ong Peck Y. , Guttman‐Yassky Emma , Richers Brittany , Baraghoshi David , Ruczinski Ingo , Barnes Kathleen C. , Leung Donald Y. M. , Mathias Rasika A.
Published: February 2021

Background

Eczema herpeticum (EH) is a rare complication of atopic dermatitis (AD) caused by disseminated herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection. The role of rare and/or deleterious genetic variants in disease etiology is largely unknown. This study aimed to identify genes that harbor damaging genetic variants associated with HSV infection in AD with a history of recurrent eczema herpeticum (ADEH+).

Methods

Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was performed on 49 recurrent ADEH+ (≥3 EH episodes), 491 AD without a history of eczema herpeticum (ADEH−) and 237 non‐atopic control (NA) subjects. Variants were annotated, and a gene‐based approach (SKAT‐O) was used to identify genes harboring damaging genetic variants associated with ADEH+. Genes identified through WGS were studied for effects on HSV responses and keratinocyte differentiation.

Results

Eight genes were identified in the comparison of recurrent ADEH+to ADEH−and NA subjects: SIDT2, CLEC7A, GSTZ1, TPSG1, SP110, RBBP8NL, TRIM15, and FRMD3. Silencing SIDT2 and RBBP8NL in normal human primary keratinocytes (NHPKs) led to significantly increased HSV‐1 replication. SIDT2‐silenced NHPKs had decreased gene expression of IFNk and IL1b in response to HSV‐1 infection. RBBP8NL‐silenced NHPKs had decreased gene expression of IFNk, but increased IL1b. Additionally, silencing SIDT2 and RBBP8NL also inhibited gene expression of keratinocyte differentiation markers keratin 10 (KRT10) and loricrin (LOR).

Conclusion

SIDT2 and RBBP8NL participate in keratinocyte's response to HSV‐1 infection. SIDT2 and RBBP8NL also regulate expression of keratinocyte differentiation genes of KRT10 and LOR.
Acceptability and feasibility of self‐sampling and follow‐up attendance after text message delivery of human papillomavirus results: A cross‐sectional study nested in a cohort in rural Tanzania
Authors: Mremi Alex , Linde Ditte S. , Mchome Bariki , Mlay Joseph , Schledermann Doris , Blaakær Jan , Rasch Vibeke
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The objective was to determine if self‐collection of vaginal samples for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing was acceptable and feasible in rural Tanzania and to assess the extent of attendance at a follow‐up appointment among women who tested HPV‐positive after delivery of HPV results via text messages.

Material and methods

A combined cross‐sectional and cohort study was conducted among women aged 25‐60 years from rural Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. Women were offered HPV self‐sampling or traditional visual inspection of the cervix with acetic acid. If HPV self‐sampling was preferred, participants received instructions on self‐collection with an Evalyn Brush. A questionnaire was used to assess the acceptability and feasibility of the self‐sampling procedure for the participants and delivery of HPV results via text messages. A mobile text message platform was used to send private text messages with the screening results to the participants.

Results

A total of 1108 women were enrolled and self‐collected an HPV sample; 11.8% tested positive for high‐risk HPV. The majority (98.9%) agreed that they had no trouble in understanding the instructions on how to perform the self‐collection and that they would recommend it to a friend (94.5%) or as a standard screening method in Tanzania (95.5%). A minority of women experienced bleeding (2.4%) or pain (6%) while collecting the sample, while some were worried that they would get hurt (12.7%) or felt embarrassed (3.5%). The majority (98.4%) of women would like to receive the screening test results via text messages. Eighty‐two per cent of those who tested positive for high‐risk HPV attended the follow‐up appointment after receiving a text message reminder and an additional 16% attended after receiving both a text message and a phone call reminder whereas 2% did not attend follow up at all. Attendance was not influenced by age, marital status, education level, parity, or HIV status.

Conclusions

Human papillomavirus self‐sampling and text‐message feedback delivery are generally well‐perceived and accepted among rural Tanzanian women, and the majority of HPV‐positive women attended a follow‐up appointment after receiving their HPV results and follow‐up appointment via text messages. This screening method may have potential to be transferrable to other low‐income countries with a high incidence of cervical cancer and so improve cervical cancer screening attendances.
What is the influence of government programs on farmer organizations and their impacts? Evidence from Zambia
Authors: Minah Margitta
Published: February 2021

Governments and donors often promote farmer organizations (FOs) in the implementation of their agricultural development programs. Yet, there is a lot of uncertainty whether externally supported FOs provide benefits beyond the channelling of programs. This paper uses Propensity Score Matching (PSM) and representative data from 4,074 Zambian households to estimate FO impacts on members, with and without controlling for a national input‐subsidy program. The results show that Zambian FOs tend to attract better‐educated households with larger farm sizes, but can lead to female integration when external subsidies are involved. FOs also have a significantly positive effect on members’ farm performance, irrespective of whether members receive input subsidies, while the presence of the external program leads to an unequal distribution of benefits within the FOs: positive impacts on farm performance are, on average 13–44% lower amongst members who do not benefit from the Zambian government program. Overall, these findings imply that Zambian FOs seem to provide benefits that go beyond the intention of the subsidy‐program, which can be used to promote women empowerment and smallholder farm performance. The findings also demonstrate, however, that governments need to carefully design their programs to not reinforce inequality amongst farmer organizations and their members.
Congruence and discrepancy in migrant children’s and mothers’ perceived discrimination: Using response surface analysis to examine the effects on psychological distress
Authors: Qu Diyang , Chen Chen , Kouros Chrystyna D. , Yu Nancy Xiaonan
Published: February 2021

New migrants from Mainland China to Hong Kong have faced increased discrimination from local Hong Kongers, which may have negative impacts on their adjustment and mental health. Guided by the family systems theory, we tested the dyadic effects of perceived discrimination levels among migrant children and mothers on their psychological distress in a sample of 200 child–mother pairs who migrated from Mainland China to Hong Kong. Using polynomial regression and response surface analyses, we found that when children's and mothers’ reports of perceived discrimination showed congruence, higher levels of perceived discrimination were positively associated with both children's and mothers’ psychological distress. In addition, when children's and mothers’ reports of perceived discrimination were discrepant, higher levels of perceived discrimination among children compared with mothers were associated with increased psychological distress for children, and higher levels of perceived discrimination among mothers compared with children were associated with increased psychological distress for mothers. By using a dyadic approach, our study advances the understanding of the degree to which child–mother congruence and the direction of discrepancies in perceived discrimination contributes to children's and mothers’ psychological distress. These findings have implications for the design of psychological distress‐reduction intervention programs in the context of discrimination among migrant pairs.
Is Homo Economicus An Ideal to be Pursued? Using US and Japan Survey Data*
Authors: Yamane Shoko , Yoneda Hiroyasu , Tsutsui Yoshiro
Published: February 2021

This study investigated how the various characteristics of Homo economicus (intellectual ability, self‐control, selfishness, fairness and pursuit of monetary gain) correlate with individual performance. We adopted income and happiness as measures of individual performance. Using large‐scale survey data from Japan and the USA, we found that: (i) generally, Homo economicus is an ideal person from the perspective of economic success; (ii) Homo economicus has many traits that make her/him unhappy; (iii) intellectual ability is a strong trait of Homo economicus for both economic success and happiness; and (iv) the results for Japan and the USA are quite similar.
Influence of Egoistic and Altruistic Bequest Motives on the Willingness to Participate in Reverse Mortgages in China*
Authors: Han Wei , Wang Ping , Dong Hongjie
Published: February 2021

From the perspective of behavioral economics, this study uses a scenario simulation experiment and the ordered‐probit econometric model to empirically analyze the influence of egoistic and altruistic bequest motives of the elderly on willingness to participate in reverse mortgages. The findings are as follows. (i) When controlling for the demographic characteristics of the elderly, the marginal probability of their willingness to participate in reverse mortgages is influenced by two constraints: the egoistic bequest motive and the altruistic bequest motive. However, compared with the egoistic bequest motive, the altruistic bequest motive more strongly affects such willingness. (ii) Improving satisfaction with community old‐age services can significantly weaken the effects of the egoistic bequest motive on the willingness to participate in reverse mortgages, generally by weakening dependence on family old‐age care. However, property tax implementation can significantly reduce the constraint effects of altruistic bequest motives on such willingness, mainly by affecting the cost of housing inheritance to the children. (iii) To increase demand for reverse mortgages, financial institutions should constantly innovate and optimize the operation modes of reverse mortgages to more efficiently cope with the influence of egoistic and altruistic bequest motives of the elderly. Government departments should continuously promote property tax reform and improve the quality of community services for the aged to indirectly promote willingness to participate in reverse mortgages.
Outcomes of systemic targeted therapy in recurrent renal cell carcinoma treated with adjuvant sunitinib
Authors: de Velasco Guillermo , Ruiz‐Granados Álvaro , Reig Oscar , Massari Francesco , Climent Duran Miguel Angel , Verzoni Elena , Graham Jeffrey , Llarena Roberto , De Tursi Michele , Donskov Frede , Iglesias Clara , Pandha Hardev S. , Garcia del Muro Xavier , Procopio Giuseppe , Oudard Stephane , Castellano Daniel , Albiges Laurence
Published: February 2021

Objective

To assess the efficacy and tolerability of rechallenge with sunitinib and other targeted therapies (TTs) in patitents with relapsed recurrent renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in the advanced setting.

Methods

In this multi‐institutional retrospective study, patients with relapsed RCC were rechallenged with sunitinib or other systemic TTs as a first‐line therapeutic approach after failed adjuvant sunitinib treatment. Patient characteristics, treatments and clinical outcomes were recorded. The primary endpoint was progression‐free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints were objective response rate (ORR) and overall survival (OS).

Results

A total of 34 patients with relapses were recorded, and 25 of these (73.5%) were men. Twenty‐five patients were treated with systemic TT: 65% of patients received TT against the vascular endothelial growth factor pathway (including sunitinib), 21.7% received mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors and 13% received immunotherapy. The median (interquartile range) time to relapse was 20.3 (5.2–20.4) months from diagnosis, and 7.5 months (1.0–8.5) from the end of adjuvant suntinib treatment. At a median follow‐up of 23.5 months, 24 of the 25 patients had progressed on first‐line systemic therapy. The median PFS was 12.0 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.78–18.2). There were no statistical differences in PFS between different treatments or sunitinib rechallenge. PFS was not statistically different in patients relapsing on or after adjuvant suntinib treatment (≤ 6 or >6 months after adjuvant suntinib ending). The ORR was 20.5%. The median OS was 29.1 months (95% CI 16.4–41.8).

Conclusions

Rechallenge with sunitinib or other systemic therapies is still a feasible therapeutic option that provides patients with advanced or metastastic RCC with additional clinical benefits with regard to PFS and OS after failed response to adjuvant sunitinib.
Role of intracellular complement activation in kidney fibrosis
Authors: Portilla Didier , Xavier Sandhya
Published: February 2021

Increased expression of complement C1r, C1s and C3 in kidney cells plays an important role in the pathogenesis of kidney fibrosis. Our studies suggest that activation of complement in kidney cells with increased generation of C3 and its fragments occurs by activation of classical and alternative pathways. Single nuclei RNA sequencing studies in kidney tissue from unilateral ureteral obstruction mice show that increased synthesis of complement C3 and C5 occurs primarily in renal tubular epithelial cells (proximal and distal), while increased expression of complement receptors C3ar1 and C5ar1 occurs in interstitial cells including immune cells like monocytes/macrophages suggesting compartmentalization of complement components during kidney injury. Although global deletion of C3 and macrophage ablation prevent inflammation and reduced kidney tissue scarring, the development of mice with cell‐specific deletion of complement components and their regulators could bring further insights into the mechanisms by which intracellular complement activation leads to fibrosis and progressive kidney disease.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed issue on Canonical and non‐canonical functions of the complement system in health and disease. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.14/issuetoc
Sodium rutin extends lifespan and health span in mice including positive impacts on liver health
Authors: Li Shuoshuo , Li Jun , Pan Ruiyuan , Cheng Jinbo , Cui Qinghua , Chen Jianxin , Yuan Zengqiang
Published: February 2021

Background and Purpose

Ageing is associated with progressive metabolic dysregulation. Rutin is a metabolic regulator with a poor solubility. Using soluble sodium rutin we investigating the effect and mechanisms of rutin in ageing process.

Experimental Approach

Wild type male mice were treated with or without sodium rutin ( 0.2 mg·ml−1 in drinking water from 8‐month‐old until end of life. Kaplan–Meier survival curve was used for lifespan assay, ageing‐related histopathology analysis and metabolic analysis were performed to determine the effects of chronic sodium rutin on the longevity. Serological test, liver tissue metabolomics and transcriptomics were used for liver function assay. SiRNA knockdown Angptl8 and autophagy flux assay in HepG2 cell lines explored the mechanism through which sodium rutin might impact the function of hepatocyte.

Key Results

Sodium rutin treatment extends the lifespan of mice by 10%. Sodium rutin supplementation alleviates ageing‐related pathological changes and promotes behaviour performance in ageing mice. Sodium rutin supplementation altered the whole‐body metabolism in mice, which exhibited increased energy expenditure and lower respiratory quotient. Transcriptomics analysis showed that Sodium rutin affected the expression of metabolic genes. Metabolomics analysis showed that Sodium rutin reduced liver steatosis through increased lipid β‐oxidation. Sodium rutin treatment increased the autophagy level both in vivo and in vitro. The inhibition of autophagy partially abolished the sodium rutin‐mediated effect on lipolysis in HepG2 cells.

Conclusion and Implications

Sodium rutin treatment extends the lifespan and health span of mice with beneficial effects on metabolism, which were achieved by enhancing the autophagy activity in hepatocytes.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Inflammation, Repair and Ageing. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v179.9/issuetoc
The Messinian Salinity Crisis as a trigger for high pore pressure development in the Western Mediterranean
Authors: Dale Michael S. , Marín‐Moreno Héctor , Falcon‐Suarez Ismael Himar , Grattoni Carlos , Bull Jonathan M. , McNeill Lisa C.
Published: February 2021

Evaporites are typically described as impermeable seals that create some of the world's highest reservoir pressures beneath the salt seal. However, several laboratory studies demonstrate that evaporites can retain open pore spaces that hydraulically connect the sediments above and below them in sedimentary basins. During the Messinian Salinity Crisis (5.97–5.33 Ma), up to 2,400 m thickness of evaporites were rapidly deposited in the Western Mediterranean, which may have generated high pore fluid overpressure in the basin sediments. Here we use one‐dimensional numerical modelling to quantify the temporal evolution of overpressure at two distinct locations of the Western Mediterranean, the Liguro‐Provençal and Algero‐Balearic basins, from the Miocene to Present. We reconstruct the sedimentation history of the basin, considering disequilibrium compaction as an overpressure mechanism and constraining model parameters (such as permeability and porosity) using laboratory experiments and the literature. In the Liguro‐Provençal basin the highest overpressure of 11.2 MPa occurs within the halite during deposition of Pliocene to Quaternary sediment, while in the Algero‐Balearic basin at the base of the Emile Baudot Escarpment, the highest overpressure of 3.1 MPa also occurs within the halite but during stage 3 of the Messinian Salinity Crisis (5.55–5.33 Ma). In the Algero‐Balearic basin an overpressure of 3.1 MPa could have been sufficient to hydro fracture the sediments, which agrees with the development of fluid escape features observed on seismic reflection profiles. In general, our models with evaporite deposition rates above 20 m kyr−1 and permeabilities below 10–18 m2, suggest that high overpressure, approaching lithostatic, can be generated in salt basins.
Comparison of radiofrequency ablation and microwave ablation for benign thyroid nodules: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Guo Dong‐Ming , Chen Zhe , Zhai Yu‐Xia , Su Hong‐Hui
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To compare the effectiveness and safety of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA) for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules (BTNs).

Methods

PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched up to September 11, 2020. Volume reduction rate (VRR), symptomatic and cosmetic scores analysed by standardized mean difference (SMD), and complications analysed by risk difference (RD) were performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of RFA and MWA for treating BTNs.

Results

Five eligible studies were included. 899 patients with 956 BTNs and 869 patients with 938 BTNs received RFA and MWA, respectively. RFA and MWA have the similar pooled 3‐month (56.0% vs. 53.9%, p = .668) and 6‐month (80.8% vs. 74.9%, p = .080) VRRs. But RFA showed a significantly higher VRR than MWA after 12 months (86.2% vs. 80.0%, p = .036). The pooled symptomatic and cosmetic scores decreased significantly after 6 and 12 months in both RFA and MWA. The improvements of symptoms were equivalent between two groups at 6 (SMD: 1.17 vs. 1.12, p = .930) and 12 (SMD: 1.46 vs. 1.45, p = .930) months. No significant differences in cosmetic scores were found between two groups at 6 (SMD: 0.87 vs. 0.94, p = 0. 334) and 12 (SMD: 1.21 vs. 1.15, p = 0. 872) months. Major (RD = −0.02, P = .107) and minor (RD = 0.00, p = .661) complications did not significantly differ between RFA and MWA.

Conclusions

RFA and MWA are effective and safe treatment modalities for BTNs. But RFA showed a superior 12‐month VRR. RFA may have a better long‐term effect on volume reduction of nodules compared with MWA.
Co‐creating youth justice practice with young people: Tackling power dynamics and enabling transformative action
Authors: Smithson Hannah , Jones Anna
Published: February 2021

This paper provides an account of an innovative research project that enabled the co‐creation with justice‐involved young people of a transformative framework of practice, termed Participatory Youth Practice (PYP). We present a description of our participatory research processes and reflect on our attempts to rebalance inherent power dynamics when working with marginalised young people. We demonstrate how young people's meaningful participation in research can strengthen their participation in service design and delivery. The embedding of the PYP framework in youth justice practice across a large region in England is a formative step in understanding the importance of young people's participation.
Diagnosis of colorectal and emergency surgical site infections in the era of enhanced recovery: an all‐Wales prospective study
Authors: Reeves Nicola , Cuff Simone , Boyce Kathryn , Harries Rhiannon , Roberts Christopher , Harrison Wendy , Torkington Jared ,   Welsh Barbers SSI Research Collaborative
Published: February 2021

Aim

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are associated with increased morbidity, hospital stay and cost. The literature reports that 25% of patients who undergo colorectal surgical procedures develop a SSI. Due to the enhanced recovery programme, patients are being discharged earlier with some SSIs presenting in primary care, making accurate recording of SSIs difficult. The aim of this study was to accurately record the 30‐day SSI rate after surgery performed by colorectal surgeons nationally within Wales.

Method

During March 2019, a national prospective snapshot study of all patients undergoing elective or emergency colorectal and general surgical procedures under the care of a colorectal consultant at 12 Welsh hospitals was completed. There was a multimodal 30‐day follow‐up using electronic records, clinic visits and/or telephone calls. Diagnosis of SSI was based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention diagnostic criteria.

Results

Within Wales, of the 545 patients included, 13% developed a SSI within 30 days, with SSI rates of 14.3% for elective surgery and 11.7% for emergency surgery. Of these SSIs, 49.3% were diagnosed in primary care, with 28.2% of patients being managed exclusively in the community. There were two peaks of diagnosis at days 5–7 and days 22–28. SSI rates between laparoscopic (8.6%) and open (16.2%) surgeries were significantly different (p = 0.028), and there was also a significantly different rate of SSI between procedure groups (p = 0.001), with high SSI rates for colon (22%) and rectal (18.9%) surgery compared with general surgical procedures.

Conclusion

This first all‐Wales prospective study demonstrated an overall SSI rate of 13%. By incorporating accurate primary care follow‐up it was found that 49.3% of these SSIs were diagnosed in primary care.
The efficacy of health warnings and package branding on perceptions of cannabis products among youth and young adults
Authors: Leos‐Toro Cesar , Fong Geoffrey T. , Hammond David
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Little empirical evidence exists about the efficacy of labelling and marketing restrictions in a regulated cannabis market. This study examined perceptions of cannabis product packaging designs, health warning labels (HWL) and perceptions of packs displaying brand imagery and leading descriptors on measures of appeal, and perceived consumer attributes.

Methods

An online experimental survey of Canadian cannabis users and non‐users (n = 870) aged 16–30 years containing eight between‐group experiments was conducted in October 2017. Primary outcomes were appeal and perceived consumer attributes of cannabis product packaging, including the likelihood of being younger, female, fashionable, health conscious and likely to go out and party.

Results

When cannabis product branding was present, respondents were more likely (P = 0.027) to report greater appeal than when branding was absent. When an HWL was present, respondents were less likely (P = 0.010) to report greater appeal than when absent. The presence of a celebrity sponsor (P < 0.001), music references (P < 0.001) or party references (P < 0.001) increased the likelihood that respondents perceived the product as targeted at someone younger, and a party lifestyle. Differences by cannabis use status were observed across experiments; those who had used were more likely to find branding elements appealing.

Discussion and Conclusions

The findings demonstrate that brand imagery on cannabis packaging can promote lifestyle associations and increase the appeal of cannabis products among young people. Plain/standardised packs displaying HWLs were perceived as less appealing than packs with branding or without HWLs. Lifestyle associations can be communicated through brand imagery on cannabis packaging.