bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pieces in a global puzzle: Population genetics at two whale shark aggregations in the western Indian Ocean
Authors: Hardenstine Royale S. , He Song , Cochran Jesse E. M. , Braun Camrin D. , Cagua Edgar Fernando , Pierce Simon J. , Prebble Clare E. M. , Rohner Christoph A. , Saenz‐Agudelo Pablo , Sinclair‐Taylor Tane H. , Skomal Gregory B. , Thorrold Simon R. , Watts Alexandra M. , Zakroff Casey J. , Berumen Michael L.
Published: January 2022

The whale shark Rhincodon typus is found throughout the world's tropical and warm‐temperate ocean basins. Despite their broad physical distribution, research on the species has been concentrated at a few aggregation sites. Comparing DNA sequences from sharks at different sites can provide a demographically neutral understanding of the whale shark's global ecology. Here, we created genetic profiles for 84 whale sharks from the Saudi Arabian Red Sea and 72 individuals from the coast of Tanzania using a combination of microsatellite and mitochondrial sequences. These two sites, separated by approximately 4500 km (shortest over‐water distance), exhibit markedly different population demographics and behavioral ecologies. Eleven microsatellite DNA markers revealed that the two aggregation sites have similar levels of allelic richness and appear to be derived from the same source population. We sequenced the mitochondrial control region to produce multiple global haplotype networks (based on different alignment methodologies) that were broadly similar to each other in terms of population structure but suggested different demographic histories. Data from both microsatellite and mitochondrial markers demonstrated the stability of genetic diversity within the Saudi Arabian aggregation site throughout the sampling period. These results contrast previously measured declines in diversity at Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia. Mapping the geographic distribution of whale shark lineages provides insight into the species’ connectivity and can be used to direct management efforts at both local and global scales. Similarly, understanding historical fluctuations in whale shark abundance provides a baseline by which to assess current trends. Continued development of new sequencing methods and the incorporation of genomic data could lead to considerable advances in the scientific understanding of whale shark population ecology and corresponding improvements to conservation policy.
Directed endozoochorous dispersal by scavengers facilitate sexual reproduction in otherwise clonal plants at cadaver sites
Authors: Arnberg Mie Prik , Frank Shane C. , Blaalid Rakel , Davey Marie Louise , Eycott Amy Elizabeth , Steyaert Sam M. J. G.
Published: January 2022

The regeneration niche of many plant species involves spatially and temporally unpredictable disturbances, called recruitment windows of opportunity. However, even species with clear dispersal adaptations such as fleshy berries may not successfully reach such elusive regeneration microsites. Ericaceous, berry‐producing species in the northern hemisphere demonstrate this dispersal limitation. They are said to display a reproductive paradox owing to their lack of regeneration in apparently suitable microsites despite considerable investment in producing large quantities of berries.

Cadavers generate vegetation‐denuded and nutrient‐rich disturbances termed cadaver decomposition islands (CDIs). Cadavers attract facultative scavengers with considerable capacity for endozoochorous seed dispersal. We hypothesize that CDIs facilitate recruitment in berry‐producing ericaceous species due to endozoochorous dispersal directed toward favorable microsites with low competition.

We examined seedling establishment within a permanent, semi‐regular 10 × 10 m grid across an ungulate mass die‐off on the Hardangervidda plateau in southeastern Norway. Competing models regarding the relative importance of factors governing recruitment were evaluated, specifically cadaver location (elevated seed rain) and microsite conditions (competition).

We found that CDIs did facilitate seedling establishment, as cadaver density was the best predictor of seedling distribution. Other important factors governing seedling establishment such as percentage cover of soil and vascular plants alone were inadequate to explain seedling establishment.

Synthesis: This study provides a novel understanding of sexual reproduction in species with cryptic generative reproduction. The directed nature of endozoochorous dispersal combined with long‐distance dispersal abilities of medium to large vertebrate scavengers toward cadavers allows plants to exploit the advantageous but ephemeral resource provided by CDIs.
Citizen scientists contributing to alien species detection: the case of fishes and mollusks in European marine waters
Authors: Kousteni Vasiliki , Tsiamis Konstantinos , Gervasini Eugenio , Zenetos Argyro , Karachle Paraskevi K. , Cardoso Ana Cristina
Published: January 2022

Citizen science (CS) expands the spatial and temporal scale of alien species records. As such, it has been recognized as a complementary tool in alien species management and large‐scale biodiversity conservation. The present study assessed the contribution of CS to the recording of marine alien fishes and mollusks in European marine waters by reviewing data available through the European Alien Species Information Network, portals, public databases, and scientific literature. In total, 8,513 CS records were retrieved, following a filtering procedure, and assessed. A positive relationship was found between CS records and time, with most of records being reported during the last decade. The presence of alien fishes was recorded by citizens in seven out of nine Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) subregions, while mollusks were recorded in all MSFD subregions. Most of the CS records of fishes were reported in the Mediterranean Sea and mostly in the Aegean‐Levantine Sea. Conversely, most of the CS records of mollusks were reported in NE Atlantic Ocean, mostly in the Greater North Sea. A key finding is that eight species were documented for the first time in European marine waters and other three were recorded outside of their known distribution range. The majority of CS reporting was funneled through scientific surveys in which the nature of CS participation was limited to data collection only. The main categories of citizen scientists included school children, students, divers, naturalists, and various volunteers. Overall, 88.5% of marine alien fishes and mollusks recorded by citizens were validated by taxonomical experts, and only 15.8% out of the validated records were supplemented with pictures. CS can contribute to early detection and enhance cost‐effectiveness of monitoring and surveillance programs regarding alien species in European seas. Still, it requires proper scientific support and adequate validation tools mechanisms.
Effects of aerial adulticiding for mosquito management on nontarget insects: A Bayesian and community ecology approach
Authors: Rochlin Ilia , White Greg , Reissen Nadja , Martheswaran Tarun , Faraji Ary
Published: January 2022

Diseases transmitted by mosquitoes are emerging across the globe in a broad range of urbanized, rural, and natural environments inhabited by their vector species. Because applications of insecticides remain the most effective, and often the only available tool to prevent or control mosquito‐borne disease outbreaks, their use and scope continue to expand. However, the effects of multiple insecticide applications targeting adult mosquitoes on nontarget insect communities remain poorly characterized. To remedy this knowledge gap, we conducted an evaluation of five aerial insecticide applications on insect communities in a natural environment near Salt Lake City, Utah. Employing a before–after–control–impact approach, we assessed abundance and community composition changes over the study period utilizing Bayesian and community ecology analytical methods. We observed no discernible effects on most insect taxa, and there were no changes in the overall insect community composition. The abundance of Diptera, Coleoptera, and Hemiptera declined in control and treatment sites, Odonata increased over the period of the study, and Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera remained similar, suggesting seasonal trends rather than treatment effects. The only consistently detectable treatment effect was on nonbiting midges (Diptera: Chironomidae), that are closely related to mosquitoes taxonomically and have similar body size and diel activity. Midge abundance declined by 79.9% (95% credible interval: 58.4–91.9). Overall posttreatment abundance decline of 62.2% (95% credible interval: 22.5–87.8) was also detected for leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), but, these declines were inconsistent and may be attributed to natural variability rather than the treatment effect. Treatment frequency, location, life‐stage targeting, and application techniques may mitigate the effects of mosquito control on nontarget insects to allow protecting human health while limiting environmental impacts.
Positive contribution of macrofaunal biodiversity to secondary production and seagrass carbon metabolism
Authors: Rodil Iván F. , Lohrer Andrew M. , Attard Karl M. , Thrush Simon F. , Norkko Alf
Published: January 2022

Coastal vegetated habitats such as seagrasses are known to play a critical role in carbon cycling and the potential to mitigate climate change, as blue carbon habitats have been repeatedly highlighted. However, little information is known about the role of associated macrofauna communities on the dynamics of critical processes of seagrass carbon metabolism (e.g., respiration, turnover, and production). We conducted a field study across a spatial gradient of seagrass meadows involving variable environmental conditions and macrobenthic diversity to investigate (1) the relationship between macrofauna biodiversity and secondary production (i.e., consumer incorporation of organic matter per time unit), and (2) the role of macrofauna communities in seagrass organic carbon metabolism (i.e., respiration and primary production). We show that, although several environmental factors influence secondary production, macrofauna biodiversity controls the range of local seagrass secondary production. We demonstrate that macrofauna respiration rates were responsible for almost 40% of the overall seafloor community respiration. Macrofauna represented on average >25% of the total benthic organic C stocks, high secondary production that is likely to become available to upper trophic levels of the coastal food web. Our findings support the role of macrofauna biodiversity in maintaining productive ecosystems, implying that biodiversity loss due to ongoing environmental change yields less productive seagrass ecosystems. Therefore, the assessment of carbon dynamics in coastal habitats should include associated macrofauna biodiversity elements if we aim to obtain robust estimates of global carbon budgets required to implement management actions for the sustainable functioning of the world's coasts.
Smartphone‐based Electrochemical On‐site Quantitative Detection Device for Nonenzyme Lactate Detection
Authors: Zhang Xiaotao , Wei Yi , Wu Huihuang , Yan Hongli , Liu Yiming , Lučev Vasić Željka , Pan Haibo , Cifrek Mario , Du Min , Gao Yueming
Published: January 2022

On‐site quantitative detection provides the opportunity for accurate and timely health care, clinical diagnosis, environmental monitoring, and food analysis. A variety of portable electrochemical detection instruments have been developed at present for on‐site quantitative detection use, including commercially available portable potentiostats, but the reality is that these electrochemical detection devices still have the problem of narrow output voltage range and detection current range, and their performance of output voltage resolution and detection current resolution is still unsatisfactory. The narrow voltage or current range makes it difficult for some chemical reactions with peaks outside the range to proceed, and the insufficiency of voltage resolution and detection current resolution are key parameters restricting the detection accuracy of existing devices. In this regard, it is urgent to carry out partial transformation of the existing device to increase the use range and detection accuracy of the device. In the current work, a smartphone‐based electrochemical on‐site quantitative detection device was developed. The device comprises a portable small potentiostat, a smartphone equipped with a specially designed Android electrochemical detection application, and a disposable sensor (NiONP modified screen‐printed electrode [SPE]). The potentiostat can realize electrochemical detection methods, including cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, and differential pulse voltammetry. In addition, the potentiostat can output a potential range −2.047∼+2.047 V with a current detection sensitivity scale 1×10−8∼1×10−3 A, and the current detection range could reach ±10 nA∼±10 mA. Most importantly, the current detection resolution of the potentiostat can reach 0.003 % (3.125 pA on ±10 nA range). The smartphone was used for communicating with the potentiostat, setting detection parameters, and mapping voltammograms in real time. The SPE was modified with nickel oxide nanoparticles and perfluorinated resin solution, which were employed as sensors to convert and amplify the electrochemical current response during the on‐site quantitative detection. Results indicated that the device features excellent performance for the lactate detection. The device covered a linear range 0.1∼30 mM on lactate detection with the correlation coefficient (R2) reaching 0.997.
Investigation of tropical plant‐based natural dyes combination and adsorption optimization for natural dye‐sensitized solar cell
Authors: Sullivan Hunter , Wang Bo , Jiang Lin
Published: January 2022

Dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSC) are one low‐cost, easy fabrication solar cell with relatively high solar energy conversion efficiency that has been widely studied in the past decades. Environmentally friendly natural dyes are one of the most investigated candidates for the currently using ruthenium dyes; however, the efficiency is still low. In this study, three different tropical plants Calathea veitchiana (C), Begonia maculata (B) leaves, and Delonix regia (D) flowers were selected as dye sensitizers for TiO2 based DSSCs using the visible light absorption intensities and wavelength distributions. All the three plant extracts showed good solar energy conversion efficiency, and the C and D mixtures showed 24% more energy conversion efficiency promotion than that of the highest individual dyes. Our study also indicated that while the blend of natural plant extracts increased the short circuit current (Jsc) benefited from the broader visible light absorption, the complexity of the mixture could reduce the performance of the solar energy conversion rate by affecting the open‐circuit voltage (Voc). Our specially designed adsorption and desorption process using polarity different solvents significantly improved the conversion efficiency to as high as 1%. The final energy conversion rate is about 40% higher than that of the highest single plant extracts (0.72%). In summary, our study builds relatively high‐efficiency natural dye‐based DSSC using the combined extracts of two tropical plants with a concise screening process and provides a rapid approach to study the natural dye combinations in DSSCs studies.
Numerical simulation of a mechanical ventilation heat supply tower
Authors: Guo Haifeng , Zhou Shanshui , Zhang Zhao , Song Yanli , Shang Shaowen , Gao Xiangtao
Published: January 2022

This study put forward a scheme of heating the groundwater by using the heat supply tower (HST) when the temperature of the groundwater drops yearly. Fluent was used to conduct a 3‐D numerical simulation of heat and mass transfer between air and water in the tower. Taking the Shenyang area as an example, the influence of different air parameters was analyzed. When air velocity was 2.0 m/s and water flow velocity was 1.0 m/s, the heat supply performance was the best. When outdoor dry bulb temperature was 34°C, the contact heat transfer increased underground water temperature by 1.4°C. When wet bulb temperature of air was 23.7°C and the dew point temperature of water vapor was 20.0°C, the condensation heat transfer increased underground water temperature by 2.0  4.0°C. The total temperature rise of water in HST was 3.0 ~ 5.0°C when it was in contact with air, which can effectively alleviate the problem of groundwater temperature decrease. In this study, the static analysis method was used to analyze the economy of the tower and solar energy heat supplement. The conclusion was that the heating cost of the heating tower is lower.
High‐order isogeometric modified method of characteristics for two‐dimensional coupled Burgers' equations
Authors: Asmouh Ilham , El‐Amrani Mofdi , Seaid Mohammed , Yebari Naji
Published: January 2022

This paper presents a novel isogeometric modified method of characteristics for the numerical solution of the two‐dimensional nonlinear coupled Burgers' equations. The method combines the modified method of characteristics and the high‐order NURBS () elements to discretize the governing equations. The Lagrangian interpretation in this isogeometric analysis greatly reduces the time truncation errors in the Eulerian methods. A third‐order explicit Runge–Kutta scheme is used for the discretization in time. We present a detailed description of the algorithm used for the calculation of departure points and the interpolation stage. Our focus is on constructing highly accurate and stable solvers for the two‐dimensional nonlinear coupled Burgers' equations at high Reynolds numbers. A variety of benchmark tests and numerical examples are provided to show the effectiveness, accuracy, and performance of the proposed modified method of characteristics by virtue of potential advantages of isogeometric analysis. The method developed is anticipated to provide new research directions to the practical calculation of incompressible flows and to studies of their physical behavior.
Outcomes in surgical management of sinonasal malignancy—A single comprehensive cancer center experience
Authors: Adilbay Dauren , Valero Cristina , Fitzgerald Conall , Yuan Avery , Mimica Ximena , Gupta Piyush , Wong Richard J. , Shah Jatin P. , Patel Snehal G. , Ganly Ian , Cohen Marc A.
Published: January 2022

Background

Sinonasal malignancies are a complex and diverse group of tumors. Over the past five decades, treatment advances have changed the management paradigms for these tumors. Our aim was to analyze the outcomes of patients from a comprehensive cancer center.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively assessed 400 patients with sinonasal malignancies treated with surgery at our center between 1973 and 2015. Multiple variables were reviewed to assess the influence on 5‐year outcomes.

Results

The median age was 56 years (IQR 46.8–68). Two hundred and fifty‐nine (65%) were males and 141 (35%) were females. Overall survival (OS) and disease‐specific survival (DSS) improved in the last analyzed decade. Orbital invasion, advanced pT‐classification and pN‐classification, and melanoma histology were associated with poorer outcomes.

Conclusion

Treatment outcomes for patients with sinonasal malignancy have improved over time. This is likely multifactorial with advances in surgical technique, adjuvant treatment, and patient selection. pT‐classification, pN‐classification, orbital invasion, and histology are predictive of survival.
Cancer‐associated fibroblasts at the unfavorable desmoplastic stroma promote colorectal cancer aggressiveness: Potential role of ADAM9
Authors: Ao Tadakazu , Mochizuki Satsuki , Kajiwara Yoshiki , Yonemura Keisuke , Shiraishi Takehiro , Nagata Ken , Shinto Eiji , Okamoto Koichi , Nearchou Ines P. , Shimazaki Hideyuki , Kishi Yoji , Okada Yasunori , Ueno Hideki
Published: January 2022

The tumor microenvironment plays a key role in cancer aggressiveness. Desmoplastic reaction (DR), morphologically classified as Mature, Intermediate and Immature types, has previously been shown to be highly prognostic in colorectal cancer (CRC) and it consists to a large extent of cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs). The aim of our study was to characterize the molecular background of DR and understand the effects of CAFs in tumor aggressiveness. The prognostic significance of DR was initially examined in 1497 patients. Then CAFs originating from patient tissues with different DR types were isolated and their impact on tumor growth was examined both in vitro and in vivo. DR was shown to be highly prognostic, with patients within the Immature DR group conferring the worst relapse‐free survival. The conditioned media of CAFs from tumor with Immature‐type DR (CAFsImmature) significantly increased proliferation and migration of CRC cell lines and growth of CRC‐derived organoids compared to that of CAFs from Mature‐type DR (CAFsMature). Subcutaneous or orthotopic implantation of CRC cells together with CAFsImmature in mice significantly promoted tumor growth and dissemination compared to implantation with CAFsMature. Systematic examination of the expression of “a disintegrin and metalloproteinases” (ADAMs) in CAFs isolated from CRC tissues showed that the secreted isoform of ADAM9 (ADAM9s) was significantly higher in CAFsImmature than in CAFsMature. Knockdown of ADAM9s in CAFsImmature abrogated the promoting effects on CRC cell proliferation and migration. CAFs‐derived ADAM9s is implicated in deteriorating survival in CRC patients with Immature‐type DR by increasing tumor cell proliferation and dissemination.
Robot‐assisted radical nephrectomy and inferior vena cava tumor thrombectomy: Initial experience in Japan
Authors: Motoyama Daisuke , Ito Toshiki , Sugiyama Takayuki , Otsuka Atsushi , Miyake Hideaki
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Open surgical approach remains the standard treatment for renal cell carcinoma with an inferior vena cava tumor thrombus. In recent years, however, robot‐assisted radical nephrectomy and inferior vena cava tumor thrombectomy have emerged as minimally invasive alternatives to conventional open surgery.

Case presentation

Here, we describe a 76‐year‐old female patient with right renal cell carcinoma with a level I inferior vena cava thrombus undergoing robot‐assisted radical nephrectomy and inferior vena cava tumor thrombectomy, which was successfully completed with a purely robotic procedure, resulting in the following outcomes: console time,167 min; total operative time, 211 min; and estimated blood loss, 150 mL. To our knowledge, this is the first case managed by robot‐assisted radical nephrectomy and inferior vena cava tumor thrombectomy in Japan.

Conclusion

Based on our experience, it might be worthwhile to consider purely robotic surgery for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma with an inferior vena cava thrombus.
Exposure to aerosolized staphylococcal enterotoxin B potentiated by lipopolysaccharide modifies lung transcriptomes and results in lung injury in the mouse model
Authors: Zong Fuliang , Gan Changjiao , Wang Yifeng , Su Duo , Deng Mengyun , Xiao Nan , Zhang Zhipeng , Zhou Dongsheng , Gao Bo , Yang Huiying
Published: January 2022

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is one of the main constituents of the cell wall in Gram‐negative bacteria. Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) is produced by the Gram‐positive opportunistic pathogen, Staphylococcus aureus. Emerging evidence suggests that intraperitoneal injection of LPS combined with low‐dose aerosolized SEB exposure can cause severe lung injury and even death, while SEB or LPS alone cause neither mortality nor severe pulmonary symptoms in mice. However, pulmonary effects from exposure to aerosolized SEB potentiated by LPS have not been evaluated. This study investigates the global transcriptome profile of lung tissue in mice after exposure to aerosolized SEB potentiated by LPS or LPS alone. A mouse model of intratracheal exposure to LPS‐potentiated aerosolized SEB is established and described through histological examination. Transcriptome analysis revealed LPS‐potentiated aerosolized SEB affected mouse lungs within 72 h post‐SEB inhalation, gradually causing lung injury starting from 24 h post inhalation. Hub genes leading to lung injury at 48 h post inhalation have been identified. Flow cytometry revealed that LPS potentiation of low‐dose SEB produces a superantigen response that T cells expressing a particular T cell receptor Vβ induces a proliferation response by 72 h post inhalation in the lungs of mice. This study represents the first research to investigate pulmonary transcriptional responses of LPS‐potentiated aerosolized low‐dose SEB exposure. This research helps to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the process by which the two bacterial components combined to produce lung damage and provides an insight into potential treatments for alleviating inflammation of the lung when coinfection is present.
Dynamic development of the extracellular matrix in chick cornea
Authors: Chen Yang‐Fang , Dong Chen‐Yuan
Published: January 2022

Understanding the mechanisms of structural organization of corneal stroma is scientifically interesting and may lead to advances in corneal tissue engineering. In the past, we used the combination of second harmonic generation and fast Fourier transform to study a number of topics including the structural alteration of human keratoconus. Recently, we applied this approach to studying changes of chick embryonic cornea during development. As numerous studies were performed with ex vivo specimens, a thorough understanding of the parameters associated with the development process cannot be achieved until experiments are performed in living chick embryos.
Population‐based cohort imaging: skeletal muscle mass by magnetic resonance imaging in correlation to bioelectrical‐impedance analysis
Authors: Kiefer Lena S. , Fabian Jana , Rospleszcz Susanne , Lorbeer Roberto , Machann Jürgen , Kraus Mareen S. , Fischer Marc , Roemer Frank , Rathmann Wolfgang , Meisinger Christa , Heier Margit , Nikolaou Konstantin , Peters Annette , Storz Corinna , Schlett Christopher L. , Bamberg Fabian
Published: January 2022

Background

Skeletal muscle mass is subjected to constant changes and is considered a good predictor for outcome in various diseases. Bioelectrical‐impedance analysis (BIA) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are approved methodologies for its assessment. However, muscle mass estimations by BIA may be influenced by excess intramuscular lipids and adipose tissue in obesity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of quantitative assessment of skeletal muscle mass by MRI as compared with BIA.

Methods

Subjects from a population‐based cohort underwent BIA (50 kHz, 0.8 mA) and whole‐body MRI including chemical‐shift encoded MRI (six echo times). Abdominal muscle mass by MRI was quantified as total and fat‐free cross‐sectional area by a standardized manual segmentation‐algorithm and normalized to subjects' body height2 (abdominal muscle mass indices: AMMIMRI).

Results

Among 335 included subjects (56.3 ± 9.1 years, 56.1% male), 95 (28.4%) were obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2). MRI‐based and BIA‐based measures of muscle mass were strongly correlated, particularly in non‐obese subjects [r < 0.74 in non‐obese (P < 0.001) vs. r < 0.56 in obese (P < 0.001)]. Median AMMITotal(MRI) was significantly higher in obese as compared with non‐obese subjects (3246.7 ± 606.1 mm2/m2 vs. 2839.0 ± 535.8 mm2/m2, P < 0.001, respectively), whereas the ratio AMMIFat‐free/AMMITotal (by MRI) was significantly higher in non‐obese individuals (59.3 ± 10.1% vs. 53.5 ± 10.6%, P < 0.001, respectively). No significant difference was found regarding AMMIFat‐free(MRI) (P = 0.424). In analyses adjusted for age and sex, impaired glucose tolerance and measures of obesity were significantly and positively associated with AMMITotal(MRI) and significantly and inversely with the ratio AMMIFat‐free(MRI)/AMMITotal(MRI) (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

MRI‐based assessment of muscle mass is feasible in population‐based imaging and strongly correlated with BIA. However, the observed weaker correlation in obese subjects may explain the known limitation of BIA in obesity and promote MRI‐based assessments. Thus, skeletal muscle mass parameters by MRI may serve as practical imaging biomarkers independent of subjects' body weight.
The mouse at the popcorn stage of development
Authors: Lalonde Robert , Strazielle Catherine
Published: January 2022

In mice, rats, and rabbits, vigorous jumping and hyperexcitability occur at the popcorn stage of postnatal development. In view of subcortical structures appearing before cortical ones, the trait is deemed to occur at the maturation time of ascending excitatory projections from the brainstem and to disappear at the maturation time of descending inhibitory projections from the forebrain. There is evidence that the popcorn stage may be due in part to the lack of a cholinergic influence on dopamine systems. Based mostly on results found in adult mice and rats, there may also be a role for cortico‐subcortical systems that include the cerebellum and basal ganglia requiring the influence of biogenic amines, glutamate, and endocannabinoids.
Model‐based dynamic off‐resonance correction for improved accelerated fMRI in awake behaving nonhuman primates
Authors: Shahdloo Mo , Schüffelgen Urs , Papp Daniel , Miller Karla L. , Chiew Mark
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To estimate dynamic off‐resonance due to vigorous body motion in accelerated fMRI of awake behaving nonhuman primates (NHPs) using the echo‐planar imaging reference navigator, in order to attenuate the effects of time‐varying off‐resonance on the reconstruction.

Methods

In NHP fMRI, the animal’s head is usually head‐posted, and the dynamic off‐resonance is mainly caused by motion in body parts that are distant from the brain and have low spatial frequency. Hence, off‐resonance at each frame can be approximated as a spatially linear perturbation of the off‐resonance at a reference frame, and is manifested as a relative linear shift in k‐space. Using GRAPPA operators, we estimated these shifts by comparing the navigator at each time frame with that at the reference frame. Estimated shifts were then used to correct the data at each frame. The proposed method was evaluated in phantom scans, simulations, and in vivo data.

Results

The proposed method is shown to successfully estimate spatially low‐order dynamic off‐resonance perturbations, including induced linear off‐resonance perturbations in phantoms, and is able to correct retrospectively corrupted data in simulations. Finally, it is shown to reduce ghosting artifacts and geometric distortions by up to 20% in simultaneous multislice in vivo acquisitions in awake‐behaving NHPs.

Conclusion

A method is proposed that does not need sequence modification or extra acquisitions and makes accelerated awake behaving NHP imaging more robust and reliable, reducing the gap between what is possible with NHP protocols and state‐of‐the‐art human imaging.
District nursing and family/whanau assessment practices: A New Zealand study
Authors: Richardson Anna , Richardson Sandra , McAllum Alex
Published: January 2022

Aim

District Nurses apply specialized nursing knowledge and assessment skills to provide care in New Zealand communities. This study aimed to identify whether District Nurse's (both Registered and supervised Enrolled Nurse's) had knowledge of, and used the 15‐Minute Interview tool, including Ecomaps/Genograms, and if not, what they saw as enablers or barriers to doing so.

Design

Participatory action research was used, following the phases of look, think and act.

Methods

Two pre‐intervention focus groups occurred, two education sessions which introduced the 15‐Minute Interview and four postintervention interviews which explored the use of the tools and their potential use in the future.

Results

District Nurses demonstrated working with families, and the selection of when and where to apply the 15‐Minute Interview.
Effects of probiotics on cognitive and emotional functions in healthy older adults: Protocol for a double‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled crossover trial
Authors: Ruiz‐Gonzalez Cristofer , Cardona Diana , Rodriguez‐Arrastia Miguel , Ropero‐Padilla Carmen , Rueda‐Ruzafa Lola , Carvajal Francisca , Sanchez‐Labraca Nuria , Aparicio Mota Adrian , Roman Pablo
Published: January 2022

Aging is a process that includes changes in cognitive and emotional functions, as well as changes in the diversity and integrity of gut microbiota. Probiotic treatments have recently been studied as a potential new therapeutic approach to alleviate a wide range of problems in other populations; however, clinical studies in older adults remain insufficient and limited. Thus, the aim of this project is to evaluate the efficacy of a multispecies probiotic formulation as a therapeutic strategy for attenuating the emotional and cognitive decline associated with aging in adults over the age of 55. This is a double‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled crossover trial involving at least 32 older adults and comparing two conditions: (a) probiotic, providing a multispecies probiotic for 10 weeks (Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium lactis); and (b) placebo, receiving a harmless substance (potato starch). Despite the increasing use of probiotics for the treatment of cognitive and emotional problems, no study has yet focused on this group, to the best of our knowledge. Therapeutic strategies of the kind outlined in this protocol will help to shed light on the current state of knowledge about this topic, as well as promote health programs tailored to this population, which would encourage active aging and healthy lifestyles. Not only do we expect improvements in the emotional dimension in terms of anxiety, stress, depression, and sleep quality, we also expect improvements in the cognitive dimension in terms of attention, memory, and decreased impulsivity.
Normative fundraising ethics: A review of the field
Authors: MacQuillin Ian
Published: January 2022

The ethics of fundraising has received scant attention in the academic literature, while there is not a huge amount in the grey and practitioner literature either. There is little that explicitly describes normative theories of fundraising—broad concepts of how fundraising ought to be practised, from which recommendions for applied ethical practice can be drawn. This is the first review of the literature on fundraising ethics, articulating, synthesing and naming (often for the first time) 14 ethical theories/lenses that can be inferred (few are explicitly stated as normative ethical theories) from the literature. In so doing, this review provides scholars and practitioners with a much firmer conceptual foundation for examining and developing professional fundraising ethics, and for analysing applied practice and finding solutions to the ethical dilemmas in applied practice.
Built environment influences on healthy eating and active living: The NEWPATH study
Authors: Frank Lawrence D. , Bigazzi Alexander , Hong Andy , Minaker Leia , Fisher Pat , Raine Kim D.
Published: January 2022

Objective

The Neighbourhood Environments in Waterloo: Patterns of Active Transportation and Health (NEWPATH) study examined built environment influences on travel, physical activity, food consumption, and health. This collaboration between researchers and practitioners in health and transportation planning is the first, to our knowledge, to integrate food purchasing, diet, travel, and objectively measured physical activity into a trip‐destination protocol. This study simultaneously examines diet and physical activity relationships with BMI and waist circumference (WC).

Methods

Individual diet and travel diary data were linked to objective built‐environment measures of walkability and retail food environments. BMI and WC were self‐reported (n = 1,160). Some respondents wore accelerometers to objectively measure physical activity (n = 549). Pathways from the built environment through behavior (walking and eating) to BMI and WC were assessed using path analysis.

Results

Walkability was associated with lower BMI and WC through physical activity and active travel. Healthy retail food environments were associated with healthy eating and lower BMI and WC, whereas walkability and healthy retail food environments were insignificant (p < 0.05). Walkable neighborhoods had less healthy food environments, but active travel was not associated with healthy eating or caloric intake.

Conclusions

Findings highlight the importance of neighborhood walkability and food environments in shaping physical activity, diet, and obesity.
Critic‐only online adaptive learning based decentralized control schemes for nonlinear large‐scale systems
Authors: Jiang He , Zhao Yan , Xie Xiangpeng , Wei Mofan
Published: January 2022

In this article, the decentralized control issues of nonlinear large‐scale systems are investigated via critic‐only adaptive dynamic programming learning methods. First of all, we build a specific relation between the decentralized control for interconnected subsystems and the optimal control for isolated subsystems. Then, we utilize neural networks (NNs) to implement a critic‐only online adaptive learning method. The stability analysis result provides the region of the online learning rate, and indicates the NN can approximate the optimal solution. Subsequently, it is proven that the small NN approximation errors cannot affect the system stability. Finally, the simulation examples verify the feasibility.
A cleaner processing approach for cellulose reinforced thermoplastic polyurethane nanocomposites
Authors: Mohd Amin Khairatun Najwa , Chaleat Celine , Edwards Grant , Martin Darren J. , Annamalai Pratheep Kumar
Published: January 2022

In a manner of addressing challenges in scalable processing of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites through extrusion methods, this study reports a very clean processing approach of incorporating cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) into a TPU matrix, with no acid or organic‐solvents usage. It involves a mechanical deconstruction of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) into nanoscale particles in water and polyol through scalable bead‐milling, vacuum drying, and followed by twin‐screw reactive extrusion with isocyanate and chain extender. The thermal stability of CNC was higher than that of typically acid‐hydrolyzed CNC and suitable for processing with the precursors of TPU at typical processing temperature range (175–190°C). The CNC incorporation at very low loadings (0.5, 0.8 wt%) through this methodology resulted in substantial enhancements in tensile properties (for example, up to 28% in strength and toughness) without any significant stiffening effect. Moreover, the nanocomposites retained elastic properties, including elongation at break (%), resilience, and creep resistance. Their chemical properties and thermal transitions were also found to support the retained thermoplastic behavior while improving mechanical performance.
Novel histone modifications in microglia derived from a mouse model of chronic pain
Authors: Zhang Ping , Guergues Jennifer , Alleyne Amy R. , Cirino Thomas J. , Nadeau Owen , Figueroa Ariana M. , Stacy Heather M. , Suzuki Takayoshi , McLaughlin Jay P. , Stevens Stanley M. , Liu Bin
Published: January 2022

As the resident immune cells in the central nervous system, microglia play an important role in the maintenance of its homeostasis. Dysregulation of microglia has been associated with the development and maintenance of chronic pain. However, the relevant molecular pathways remain poorly defined. In this study, we used a mass spectrometry‐based proteomic approach to screen potential changes of histone protein modifications in microglia isolated from the brain of control and cisplatin‐induced neuropathic pain adult C57BL/6J male mice. We identified several novel microglial histone modifications associated with pain, including statistically significantly decreased histone H3.1 lysine 27 mono‐methylation (H3.1K27me1, 54.8% of control) and H3 lysine 56 tri‐methylation (7.5% of control), as well as a trend suggesting increased H3 tyrosine 41 nitration. We further investigated the functional role of H3.1K27me1 and found that treatment of cultured microglial cells for 4 consecutive days with 1–10 μM of NCDM‐64, a potent and selective inhibitor of lysine demethylase 7A, an enzyme responsible for the demethylation of H3K27me1, dose‐dependently elevated its levels with a greater than a two‐fold increase observed at 10 μM compared to vehicle‐treated control cells. Moreover, pretreatment of mice with NCDM‐64 (10 or 25 mg/kg/day, i.p.) prior to cisplatin treatment prevented the development of neuropathic pain in mice. The identification of specific chromatin marks in microglia associated with chronic pain may yield critical insight into the contribution of microglia to the development and maintenance of pain, and opens new avenues for the development of novel nonopioid therapeutics for the effective management of chronic pain.
How to derive spatial agents: A mixed‐method approach to model an elderly population with scarce data
Authors: Haacke Hannah C. , Enßle Friederike , Haase Dagmar , Lakes Tobia
Published: January 2022

Information about the spatial patterns of residents is essential, especially when elderly people are involved, as their action range is confined to their residential location. Since knowledge about patterns of elderly people in cities is limited, this paper formulates steps for the initialisation of an agent‐based model, combined with different data sources. The first step is to identify different types of elderly people using cluster analysis, and then the clusters are expanded into agent typologies with behaviour rules, which form the basis for an artificial population. The clusters are derived based on survey data and then analysed and modified using insights from census data and expert interviews. The agents' relocation behaviour is estimated based on literature research, expert interviews and a survey. The spatial information of the agents is added with a spatial microsimulation. The resulting artificial population presents the real population well and can be used in an empirically based data‐driven agent‐based model.
Ab initio Study of Atomic Structure and Electronic Properties of Different Phases of Polymorphic Ag2S
Authors: Makeev Maxim A. , Sahu Ayaskanta , Rajput Nav Nidhi
Published: January 2022

Silver sulfide is a polymorphic material that exists in different crystalline forms including 3D structures with different symmetries, quasi‐2D layers, and 0D quantum dots. The crystal structures of identified and characterized to date forms of Ag2S differ, and so do their electronic properties. In the past, two different bulk crystalline phases of Ag2S with the same symmetry have been characterized experimentally. Herein, an empirical relation is proposed, which allows for the identification of these experimentally observed structures of Ag2S as thermodynamically stable and predicts a new, potentially stable, crystalline phase of this material. The band structures of these three phases are investigated using computational quantum methods. The calculations are performed using the hybrid density functional approximation and quasiparticle partially self‐consistent GW method. The effects of crystal structure on the semiconductor properties are discussed based on the results obtained for the three crystalline structures. The findings, reported in this work, can be of significance for technological applications that exploit the electronic properties of crystalline Ag2S.
Time‐optimal control of piecewise affine bistable gene‐regulatory networks
Authors: Augier Nicolas , Yabo Agustín G.
Published: January 2022

We study the minimal‐time problem for a piecewise affine bistable switch. Motivated by applications in synthetic biology and biotechnology, the aim is to minimize the time needed for this system to achieve transitions between its two stable steady states. The latter represents the two possible states of a genetic toggle switch, a synthetic flip‐flop device playing a fundamental role in biocomputing and gene therapy. Results show that a time‐optimal transition between states should pass by an undifferentiated state, which is well known in cell biology for its importance in fate differentiation of cells. In order to characterize the capacity of the system to achieve transitions, we provide a lower bound on the minimal time, whose knowledge becomes relevant when considering realistic systems involving subsystems evolving on different time scales. Then, we show numerical simulations of optimal trajectories illustrating the structure of the bang‐bang optimal control for different scenarios.
Geomorphic responses of fluvial systems to climate change: A habitat perspective
Authors: Juracek Kyle E. , Fitzpatrick Faith A.
Published: January 2022

Fluvial systems provide a variety of habitats that support thousands of species including many that are threatened or endangered. Moreover, these habitats, which range from aquatic and riparian to floodplain, are important for the variety of ecosystem services they provide. In addition to water temperature and streamflow change, geomorphic change is important and warrants consideration as one of the several potential threats to these habitats posed by climate change. The geomorphic response of fluvial systems to global warming in temperate environments, for example, caused by an increase in the frequency and magnitude of floods, is important because geomorphology is a primary determinant of habitat availability and quality. Possible geomorphic responses include increased erosion and (or) deposition in the river channel, riparian zone, and floodplain with associated habitat implications. Geomorphic changes caused by global warming can be beneficial (e.g., increased habitat complexity) or detrimental (e.g., mortality caused by scour or burial) to biota. The ability of a species to respond to and survive disturbances, including geomorphic changes, will depend on the nature of the disturbances and the sensitivity and adaptive capabilities of the species. Post‐flood recovery often is rapid; however, for certain species (e.g., periphyton, macroinvertebrates), changes in community composition may persist. Increased flood frequency, sediment mobility, and associated geomorphic changes potentially will result in more frequent and persistent changes in habitat and community composition in the affected fluvial systems.
Tongue worm (Linguatula serrata) infection in a dog imported into the United Kingdom from Romania
Authors: Macrelli Michele , Mackintosh Adrienne
Published: January 2022

Linguatula serrata, also known as tongue worm, is a zoonotic parasite that lives in the nasal airways of dogs where it is responsible for mild to severe rhinosinusitis. In recent years, the number of pets entering the United Kingdom from abroad has increased, with a coinciding increase in the number of L. serrata infections diagnosed in UK veterinary clinics. Here, we report a case of linguatulosis in a 10‐month‐old rescued dog imported from Romania. Two weeks post‐arrival, the dog showed coughing, nasal discharge, epiphora and respiratory distress. Two worm‐like parasites were expelled by sneezing and they were morphologically identified as L. serrata. L. serrata eggs were also detected. A macrocyclic lactone treatment was administered, and clinical signs resolved. L. serrata should be included in the differential diagnosis of respiratory disease in imported dogs. Due to the zoonotic potential of this parasite, rapid diagnosis and correct treatment is essential.