bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can an ecological-transactional systems model in occupational therapy contribute to a social prescribing programme?
Authors: Johansson Erika , Rapo Emil , Nilsson Ingeborg
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The spread and level of loneliness is today considered a public health issue. Attempts to promote or reduce the level of loneliness have been made, one of which is social prescribing (SP), developed and extensively used. Complex interventions such as SP are advised to be connected to theory.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, the Person-Environment-Occupation-Participation model (PEOP) will be reviewed and used as an example, both as a way of organize occupational knowledge and as a model for practice.

Findings

Occupational therapy underpinned by transactional system theory such as the PEOP model seems to give comprehensive and relevant support in the SP process. Particularly, this model can guide practitioners through crucial phases when assessing needs, matching interests and goals with relevant occupations, as well as understanding of important components embedded in the program.

Originality/value

This opinion piece offers insights in why and how specific components connected to SP needs to be understood by theory and applied by personnel to facilitate a meaningful and sustainable occupational performance for the individuals.
Changing social burden of Japan’s three major diseases including Long-term Care due to aging
Authors: Hirata Koki , Matsumoto Kunichika , Onishi Ryo , Hasegawa Tomonori
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to clarify the social burden of Japan’s three major diseases including Long-term Care (LTC) burden.

Design/methodology/approach

A modification of the Cost of Illness (COI)—the Comprehensive-COI (C-COI) was utilized to estimate three major diseases: cancer, heart disease, and cerebrovascular diseases (CVD). The C-COI consists of five parts: medical direct cost, morbidity cost, mortality cost, formal LTC cost and informal LTC cost. The latter was calculated by two approaches: opportunity cost approach (OC) and replacement approach (RA), which assumed that informal caregivers were substituted by paid caregivers.

Findings

The C-COI of cancer, heart disease and CVD in 2017 amounted to 10.5 trillion JPY, 5.2 trillion JPY, and 6.7 trillion JPY, respectively (110 JPY= 1 US$). The mortality cost was preponderant for cancer (61 percent) and heart disease (47.9 percent); while the informal LTC cost was preponderant for CVD (27.5 percent). The informal LTC cost of the CVD in OC amounted to 1.8 trillion JPY; while the RA amounted to 3.0 trillion JPY.

Social implications

The LTC burden accounted for a significant proportion of the social burden of chronic diseases. The informal care was maintained by unsustainable structures such as the elderly providing care for the elderly. This result can affect health policy decisions.

Originality/value

The C-COI is more appropriate for estimating the social burden of chronic diseases including the LTC burden and can be calculated using governmental statistics.
Educators’ experiences in special education institutions during the COVID‐19 outbreak
Authors: Yakut Ayse Dilsad
Published: July 2021

The COVID‐19 outbreak has had a profound impact on education worldwide. As a result of the educational institutions closures, it is likely that the impact on special education would be more detrimental since special education population becomes more vulnerable in the aftermath of an outbreak. In the scope of this study, a researcher created survey was used to examine educators’ teaching experiences and their perceptions about the impact of COVID‐19 outbreak on special education students. The sample included 215 educators working in the Special Education and Rehabilitation Centers (SERCs) in Turkey. Results indicated that a large majority of the SERCs were not able to continue their education during the COVID‐19 outbreak. In addition, there was a difference in educators’ experiences by their educational practices (normal weekly schedule, reduced schedule, most of the educational activities are suspended, and all of the educational activities are suspended). Perceived level of COVID‐19 outbreak impact on special education students were found to be significantly higher for autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders, visual impairments, hearing impairments, specific learning disabilities and gifted students, respectively. The conclusion highlights the need of global collaboration, disaster preparation and management for students with special needs.
Improving estimates of Medicaid's effect on poverty: Measures and counterfactuals
Authors: Zewde Naomi , Remler Dahlia , Hyson Rosemary , Korenman Sanders
Published: July 2021

Objective

To re‐evaluate the effect of Medicaid on poverty using a poverty measure that accounts for health insurance needs and benefits and an evaluation approach that reflects disparities in access to alternative coverage.

Data Sources

The Current Population Survey (CPS) for calendar year 2015.

Study Design

We estimate the effect of losing Medicaid on poverty, combining two previous approaches: (1) A propensity impact, which simulates a no‐Medicaid counterfactual incorporating changes to health insurance and medical out‐of‐pocket spending, using the Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM). This measure does not reflect a need for health care access nor how health benefits meet that need. (2) An accounting impact, which assumes that those losing Medicaid remain uninsured and does not incorporate any behavioral changes, using the health‐inclusive poverty measure (HIPM). This measure includes a need for health insurance in the threshold and health insurance benefits in resources.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Not applicable.

Principal Findings

Using the propensity‐matched approach, we attributed a 2.5 percentage point reduction in health‐inclusive poverty among those younger than age 65 to the Medicaid program, between the 1.0‐point SPM propensity‐match impact and the 3.9‐point HIPM accounting impact. Medicaid's antipoverty impact and HIPM‐SPM differences are greater among those who would become uninsured. HIPM propensity‐matched estimates reveal much larger impacts of Medicaid on poverty disparities linked to race/ethnicity and single parenthood than SPM‐based propensity estimates.

Conclusions

Both the poverty measure and the method used to estimate the counterfactual make substantial, policy‐relevant differences to estimates of Medicaid's impact on poverty. A poverty measure that fails to incorporate health insurance needs and benefits substantially underestimates Medicaid's effect. Failing to consider adjustments in insurance coverage and out‐of‐pocket spending substantially overestimates Medicaid's effect and underestimates its reduction of disparities.
Prediction in HRM research–A gap between rhetoric and reality
Authors: Sarstedt Marko , Danks Nicholas P.
Published: July 2021

There are broadly two dimensions on which researchers can evaluate their statistical models: explanatory power and predictive power. Using data on job satisfaction in ageing workforces, we empirically highlight the importance of distinguishing between these two dimensions clearly by showing that a model with a certain degree of explanatory power can produce vastly different levels of predictive power and vice versa—in the same and different contexts. In a further step, we review all the papers published in three top‐tier human resource management journals between 2014 and 2018 to show that researchers generally confuse explanation and prediction. Specifically, while almost all authors rely solely on explanatory power assessments (i.e., assessing whether the coefficients are significant and in the hypothesised direction), they also derive practical recommendations, which inherently result from a predictive scenario. Based on our results, we provide HRM researchers recommendations on how to improve the rigour of their explanatory studies.
Media coverage of industry and the cross‐section of stock returns
Authors: Huang Tao , Zhang Xueyong
Published: July 2021

This paper investigates the cross‐sectional relation between media coverage of industry and expected stock returns. Using abnormal industry‐level news volume as a proxy for industry‐level media coverage, we find that stocks in industries with lower media coverage earn significantly higher future returns than stocks in industries with higher media coverage. This finding is robust even after controlling for well‐known stock characteristics and proxies for stock‐specific attention. Moreover, the return premium of lower industry‐level media coverage experiences continuation in the following 2 months, only to be followed by a reversal in the third month, due to the erosion of media coverage.
Development of a 19‐plex short tandem repeat typing system for individual identification and parentage testing of horses (Equus caballus)
Authors: Shang S. , Jiang R. , Luo R. , Jia S. , Irwin D. M. , Wang Z. , Zhang S.
Published: July 2021

Individual identification of horses for pedigree verification and registration is important for the sustainable development of the horse industry. Horse individual identification and parentage tests commonly use the 17 short tandem repeats (STRs) recommended by the International Society for Animal Genetics (ISAG) and the locus LEX33. While many multiplex STR typing systems have been established for the horse, a sex determining marker is usually absent, and none of them can simultaneously detect all 17 ISAG recommended loci and the locus LEX33. Here, we present a 19‐plex STR typing system that contains the 17 ISAG recommend loci, the locus LEX33 and amelogenin as sex determining loci. The results of our sensitivity, species specificity, stutter analysis and population data analysis, indicate that this system is a specific, sensitive, and robust tool for the identification of individuals, parentage testing and genetic research in the horse.
Circ_0011460 upregulates HTRA1 expression by sponging miR‐762 to suppress HTR8/SVneo cell growth, migration, and invasion
Authors: Fan Zhongyan , Wang Qiming , Deng Hui
Published: July 2021

Background

Aberrant expression of circular RNAs (circRNAs) during placental development could affect fetal growth and contribute to preeclampsia (PE). Circ_0011460 was found to be differentially expressed in placental samples of PE. However, the exact function and mechanism of circ_0011460 in PE process remain largely undefined.

Methods

Levels of circ_0011460, microRNA (miR)‐762, and high‐temperature requirement‐A serine peptidase 1 (HTRA1) were detected using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. In vitro experiments in HTR8/SVneo cells were conducted using cell counting kit‐8, wound healing, transwell, flow cytometry and Western blot assays. The direct interactions between miR‐762 and circ_0011460 or HTRA1 were verified using dual‐luciferase reporter, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and RNA pull‐down assays.

Results

Circ_0011460 possessed a loop structure and was highly expressed in placental tissues of PE patients. Overexpression of circ_0011460 greatly suppressed HTR8/SVneo cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and accelerated cell apoptosis. While circ_0011460 knockdown yielded the opposite trends on above biological behaviors. Mechanistically, we confirmed that circ_0011460 could up‐regulate HTRA1 expression via serving as a sponge of miR‐762. Further rescue studies demonstrated that circ_0011460 exerted its roles via targeting miR‐762, and miR‐762 promoted HTR8/SVneo cell growth, migration and invasion via regulating HTRA1.

Conclusion

In all, circ_0011460 suppressed HTR8/SVneo cell growth, migration, and invasion via miR‐762/HTRA1 axis, suggesting a new insight into the pathogenesis of PE.
Should we be prepping the foot? Stockinette use and drape contamination during hip arthroplasty: An experimental study
Authors: Abbott Sarah , Naraen Akarshan , Rawaf David , Craik Johnathan
Published: July 2021

Background

Meticulous prepping and draping of the surgical field is paramount to reduce the risk of infection. A consistent technique for draping for hip arthroplasty is not well established. One technique for preparing the operative field utilises a sterile stockinette over an unprepped foot. This study aims to assess surgical site contamination when draping for hip arthroplasty without disinfecting the foot.

Methods

Ultraviolet (UV) fluorescent powder was used as a surrogate for microbial presence on the foot. Powder was applied to a volunteer's foot to a level where antibacterial prep would stop. The leg was then draped according to three methods; directly with stockinette only, wrapping the foot without using an adhesive seal followed by stockinette, and wrapping the foot with the adhesive seal followed by stockinette. Proximal spread of powder after draping was assessed with UV light.

Results

Contamination of the sterile field was found with all draping methods. Spread was particularly noted in the groin, posterior to the thigh and distal to mid‐thigh. Wrapping the foot in a small drape without the adhesive seal prior to stockinette application was associated with significantly greater contamination when compared with use of the seal (p = 0.004).

Conclusion

Routine formal prepping of the foot during hip arthroplasty is recommended to reduce the risk of surgical site contamination. Surgeons who select not to prep the foot should make use of a small drape with occlusive, adhesive seal prior to stockinette application and consider applying a further U drape to the hip.
Biomarkers of clinical severity in treated and untreated sickle cell disease: a comparison by genotypes of a single center cohort and African Americans in the NHANES study
Authors: Njoku Franklin , Zhang Xu , Shah Binal N. , Machado Roberto F. , Han Jin , Saraf Santosh L. , Gordeuk Victor R.
Published: July 2021

Haemolysis and vaso‐occlusion underlie multi‐organ system complications in sickle cell disease (SCD). We assessed real‐world biomarkers in University of Illinois adult SCD patients, categorised as severe (HbSS/Sβ0‐thalassaemia; n = 342) or mild (HbSC/Sβ+‐thalassaemia; n = 100) genotypes and stratified according to treatment. African‐American controls from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were matched with each genotype category. Most measures of haemolysis, anaemia, inflammation and function of kidneys, liver and lungs differed markedly in untreated severe genotype patients compared to NHANES controls. These same biomarkers were significantly closer to the NHANES control range in untreated mild versus severe genotype patients, but they were not improved in severe genotype patients receiving treatment with hydroxycarbamide or blood transfusions, except that haemoglobin and HbF were higher with hydroxycarbamide. Systolic blood pressures did not differ among the SCD and NHANES groups, but diastolic pressures were higher in mild genotype patients. Ferritin in severe genotype patients on chronic transfusions was 50‐fold higher than NHANES controls. The cross‐sectional real‐world biomarkers of patients on hydroxycarbamide or transfusions were not markedly improved compared to untreated patients. This may be due partly to poor compliance or more severe disease. Our findings highlight the need for more effective treatments.
Patch test–relevant concentrations of metal salts cause localized cytotoxicity, including apoptosis, in skin ex vivo
Authors: Zhang Yan , de Graaf Niels P. J. , Veldhuizen Rosalien , Roffel Sanne , Spiekstra Sander W. , Rustemeyer Thomas , Kleverlaan Cees J. , Feilzer Albert J. , Bontkes Hetty , Deng Dongmei , Gibbs Susan
Published: July 2021

Background

Metal alloys containing contact sensitizers (nickel, palladium, titanium) are extensively used in medical devices, in particular dentistry and orthopaedic surgery. The skin patch test is used to test for metal allergy.

Objective

To determine whether metal salts, when applied to freshly excised skin at patch test–relevant concentrations and using a method which mimics skin patch testing, cause in changes in the epidermis and dermis.

Methods

Tissue histology, apoptosis, metabolic activity, and inflammatory cytokine release were determined for two nickel salts, two palladium salts, and four titanium salts.

Results

Patch test–relevant concentrations of all metal salts caused localized cytotoxicity. This was observed as epidermis separation at the basement membrane zone, formation of vacuoles, apoptotic nuclei, decreased metabolic activity, and (pro)inflammatory cytokine release. Nickel(II) sulfate hexahydrate, nickel(II) chloride hexahydrate, titanium(IV) bis(ammonium lactato)dihydroxide, and calcium titanate were highly cytotoxic. Palladium(II) chloride, sodium tetrachloropalladate(II), titanium(IV) isopropoxide, and titanium(IV) dioxide showed mild cytotoxicity.

Conclusion

The patch test in itself may be damaging to the skin of the patient being tested. These results need further verification with biopsies obtained during clinical patch testing. The future challenge is to remain above the elicitation threshold at noncytotoxic metal concentrations.
Decadal changes in international advocacy toward the conservation of highly migratory fishes
Authors: Schiller Laurenne , Auld Graeme , Sinan Hussain , Bailey Megan
Published: July 2021

Highly migratory fishes, such as tunas, present conservation challenges because their ranges span the high seas and jurisdictional waters of coastal states. Governments are mandated to manage tuna fisheries through Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs), so RFMO meetings have subsequently become one focal point for non‐governmental organizations (NGOs) seeking to influence the management process. Here we ask: how have the agendas of NGOs at RFMO meetings changed over time and where are they currently most effective at reforming tuna fisheries management? We systematically analyzed 216 advocacy statements submitted by NGO observers to RFMOs from 1999–2019 and interviewed 26 meeting attendees. We find that target tuna stock management measures accounted for over 20% of total advocacy over time and there has been a 26‐fold increase in calls for science‐based harvest strategies since 2010. We also find that 77% of policymakers were receptive to RFMO advocacy, but 57% of interviewees believe the most effective way to influence RFMO decisions was through engagement external to RFMO meetings. Relations between industry and environmental NGO observers are also improving due to sustainable seafood movement collaborations and we suggest these emerging cross‐sectoral partnerships could substantially improve the management of pelagic species if their efforts remain credible and transparent.
Diversity and biogeography of Mediterranean freshwater blennies (Blenniidae, Salaria)
Authors: Wagner Maximilian , Zogaris Stamatis , Berrebi Patrick , Freyhof Jörg , Koblmüller Stephan , Magnan Pierre , Laporte Martin
Published: July 2021

Aim

In the Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot, freshwater fishes are key biogeographic indicators, while their habitats are vulnerable to ongoing anthropogenic pressures. The freshwater blenny is a widespread endemic taxon in this area. However, our understanding of the overall diversity of specific populations and their phylogenetic relationships is sparse. Thus, we aim to investigate the genetic diversity, infer relationships among sampled populations related to major palaeoenvironmental changes and suggest insights for future research and conservation targets.

Location

Mediterranean Basin

Methods

We studied 171 Salaria specimens from 51 rivers and lakes, and from 13 countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. For assessing the phylogenetic relationships among different locations, we used mtDNA d‐loop and intron S7 sequences. Furthermore, we inferred absolute divergence times and demographic changes using secondary calibrations and investigated the diversity within major lineages using haplotype networks and several geographical and genetic clustering methods.

Results

We found eight well‐differentiated lineages, each of which being confined to a particular geographical region. The onset of the freshwater blenny radiation was dated around the Messinian salinity crisis. Further differentiation happened during the Plio‐ and Pleistocene with signatures of population expansion after the Last Glacial Maximum in some of the main lineages.

Main conclusions

Due to their unusually widespread distribution, the freshwater blennies represent an excellent model for studying phylogeographic structure across the Mediterranean basin biodiversity hotspot. The extant diversity and distribution of the freshwater Salaria species mirrors palaeoenvironmental changes in the region, but there are still large gaps in knowledge, particularly in the Levant. Even though the main lineages described are statistically well supported, the phylogenetic relationship among several of them remains poorly resolved. Despite the fact that the most widespread species, S. fluviatilis, is not globally threatened, it harbours some distinct populations that are of conservation concern.
Modification of cardiovascular disease risk by health behaviour change following type 2 diabetes diagnosis
Authors: Estlin Annabel F. L. , Ahern Amy L. , Griffin Simon J. , Strelitz Jean
Published: July 2021

Aims

Among adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D), unhealthy behaviours are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. To date, little research has considered whether healthy changes in behaviours following T2D diagnosis reduce CVD risk.

Methods

A cohort of 867 adults with screen‐detected T2D, participating in the Anglo‐Danish‐Dutch Study of Intensive Treatment in People with Screen‐Detected Diabetes in Primary Care (ADDITION)‐Cambridge trial, were followed for 10 years for incidence of CVD events. Diet, alcohol consumption, moderate/vigorous physical activity and smoking were assessed by questionnaire at the time of T2D screening and 1 year later. We estimated associations between health behaviours and CVD using Cox regression. We assessed modification of the associations by behaviour change in the year following T2D diagnosis.

Results

Smoking [hazard ratio (HR): 1.73 (95% CI: 1.04, 2.87)] and high fat intake [HR: 1.70 (95% CI: 1.02, 2.85)] were associated with a higher hazard of CVD, while high plasma vitamin C [HR: 0.44 (95% CI: 0.22, 0.87)] and high fibre intake [HR: 0.60 (95% CI: 0.36, 0.99)] were associated with a lower hazard of CVD. Reduction in fat intake following T2D diagnosis modified associations with CVD. In particular, among those with the highest fat intake, decreasing intake attenuated the association with CVD [HR: 0.75 (95% CI: 0.36, 1.56)].

Conclusion

Following T2D diagnosis, decreasing fat intake was associated with lower long‐term CVD risk. This evidence may raise concerns about low‐carbohydrate, high‐fat diets to achieve weight loss following T2D diagnosis. Further research considering the sources of fat is needed to inform dietary recommendations.

Trial registration

This trial is registered as ISRCTN86769081. Retrospectively registered on 15 December 2006.
Trust‐based corruption networks: A comparative analysis of two municipal governments
Authors: Pérez‐Chiqués Elizabeth , Meza Oliver
Published: July 2021

This article explores the role of trust in corrupt networks and networks that facilitate corruption. Specifically, we ask what is the role of particularized trust in the operation of systemic corruption? How is the basis of trust reflected in the logic of corruption and with which effects? Based on the analysis of 50 in‐depth interviews in two Mexican cities, we analyze two types of particularized trust that bind actors in informal networks: trust based on political affiliation and/or personal relationships and trust derived from complicity, or the co‐participation in illicit activities. Analysis suggests that the basis of trust and the dynamics that arise thereof have different effects on the functioning and stability of the informal networks and that these, in turn, reflect the informal governance systems in place. This article provides further empirical evidence to the central role that particularized trust plays in contexts of systemic corruption, highlighting the importance of understanding these dynamics for the design of anti‐corruption efforts.
Towards redressing inaccurate, offensive and inappropriate common bird names
Authors: Driver Robert J. , Bond Alexander L.
Published: July 2021

English common names are widely used in ornithological research, birding, media and by the general public and, unlike other taxa, often receive considerably greater use than scientific names. Across the world, many of these names were coined from 18th and 19th century European perspectives and are symbolic of a time when this was the only worldview considered in science. Here, we highlight formal efforts by ornithological societies around the world to change common names of birds to better reflect the diverse perspectives of scientists in the 21st century. We focus on particular case studies from regions with a history of colonialism, including South Africa and North America, as well as the successful implementation of Indigenous bird names in New Zealand. In addition to detailing independent and repeated efforts by different ornithological communities to address culturally inappropriate English common names, we discuss dissention and debate in North America regarding these changes. The continued use of problematic common names must change if we wish to create a more diverse and inclusive discipline.
Chasing dividends during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Eugster Nicolas , Ducret Romain , Isakov Dušan , Weisskopf Jean‐Philippe
Published: July 2021

This paper investigates the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on investors' trading behaviors around ex‐dividend dates in Europe. The sudden decrease in the number of companies paying dividends reduced the opportunities to capture dividends. Thus, the firms that maintained dividend payments during the pandemic attracted more interest than before. This led to a doubling in the magnitude of stock return patterns usually observed around ex‐dividend days. Our evidence indicates that dividend‐seeking investors are likely to be the main driver of the price patterns observed around ex‐dividend dates.
Species‐specific COI primers for rapid identification of Bemisia tabaci Mediterranean (MED) species
Authors: Song Xianmei , Wang Jirui , Wang Xinpu
Published: July 2021

Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) is a rapidly evolving species complex, and is small in size and difficult to identify quickly and accurately. For the accurate identification and effective prevention of this species, the specific PCR method based on the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome oxidase subunit I (mt DNA COI) gene was used in the present study to evaluate rapid molecular detection technological applications for Mediterranean (MED) species. The MED was targeted and whitefly species from different regions were used as references. Fragments of the mt DNA COI gene of the MED and other closely related species were amplified with universal primers. Species‐specific mitochondrial DNA cytochrome oxidase subunit I (SS‐COI) primers BQLF/BQLR and BQJF/BQJR were designed from variable sites of MED and other whitefly species partial COI gene sequences. Subsequently, the lengths of target fragments were amplified by two pairs of SS‐COI primers. Meanwhile, the accuracy, specificity and sensitivity of SS‐COI primers were determined using various life stages of the MED and other related species collected from different locations. The primer pairs BQLF/BQLR and BQJF/BQJR generated 334 bp and 483 bp amplified fragment length respectively. Accuracy test results showed that primers can detect the MED single‐head adults and also accurately detect single‐egg and first instar, second instar and third instar nymphs, MED pupae, etc. Specific detection results demonstrated that the primers were able to amplify the MED but not the following species/populations: Middle East‐Asia Minor 1 (MEAM1), Asia I, Asia II 1, Asia II 6 and Asia II 7, Aleurocanthus spiniferus (Quaintanca), A. camelliae, Siphoninus phillyreae, Aleuroclava rhododendri, A. thysanospermi, Aleurolobus taonabae, Dialeurodes citri and Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood) in different areas. Sensitivity detection results showed that primers can detect the minimum threshold of 2,160 pg/μl and 1.38 pg/μl, respectively (equivalent to 1/1280 and 1/2000000 adult). This technique solves the problem that MED cannot be identified based on morphology. This method simultaneously adopted SS‐COI PCR technological applications that improved detection accuracy and saved detection time.
Parotocinclus jacksoni, a new hypoptopomatine catfish (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) from the Rio Mamanguape basin, north‐eastern Brazil
Authors: Ramos Telton P. A. , Lustosa‐Costa Silvia Y. , Barros‐Neto Luciano de F. , Barbosa José E. L.
Published: July 2021

A new species of Parotocinclus is described from the Rio Mamanguape basin, in the State of Paraíba, north‐eastern Brazil. The new species can be distinguished from all of its congeners, except for P. bahiensis, P. cesarpintoi, P. jumbo, P. nandae and P. spilosoma, by the presence of an abdomen covered by a few small and dispersed platelets (vs. an abdomen entirely covered by large plates in adult individuals or the absence of plates in that region). The new species differs from those mentioned above with respect to several features, such as an exposed pectoral girdle and supporting odontodes medially and laterally, the number of premaxillary and dentary teeth, odontodes covering only the lateral portion of the cleithrum and the absence of irregular golden lines on the head and body (colour in vivo). The new species was collected only in the upper and middle portions of the Rio Mamanguape basin, suggesting a geographic distribution restricted to the Caatinga biome.
Schindleria parva, a new species of Schindler's fish (Teleostei: Schindleriidae: Schindleria) from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Red Sea
Authors: Abu El‐Regal Mohamed A. , El‐Sherbiny Mohsen M. , Gabr Mohamed H. , Fricke Ronald
Published: July 2021

Schindleria parva, a new species of the family Schindleriidae, is described from two specimens collected from the central Red Sea of Saudi Arabia. The new species is characterized by lack of pigmentation on the body, possession of an inconspicuous gas bladder and the presence of small teeth on the premaxillae. The holotype is a female of 11 mm standard length (SL) (11.9 mm total length) and the paratype is a male of 9 mm SL. Dorsal fin rays 10 (9) anal fin rays 9 (7). The body depth at pectoral‐fin origin 5% (4%) of SL, depth at anal‐fin origin 8% (7%) SL, predorsal length 63% (65%) SL, preanal length 72% (72%) SL, the first anal‐fin ray situated below the fourth dorsal‐fin ray), a total of 23 + 16 myomeres. The female contained a series of 30 rectangular eggs in a single row, whereas the male is characterized by a short rod‐like urogenital papilla. Species of the genus Schindleria are likely the smallest marine vertebrates on the planet and S. parva is likely the smallest Schindleria species in the Red Sea. The global diversity of Schindleria is likely underestimated due to the paedomorphic features of this genus. Its fast generation times make it a species‐rich genus of high turnover rates, thus potentially highly important for the trophic food webs of coral reefs. Thus, this finding advances knowledge on the biodiversity of the Red Sea, highlights its conservation significance, and contributes towards the understanding of the complexity of the coral‐reef fish community.
Increasing yield potential through manipulating of an ARE1 ortholog related to nitrogen use efficiency in wheat by CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Zhang Jiahui , Zhang Huating , Li Shaoya , Li Jingying , Yan Lei , Xia Lanqin
Published: July 2021

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a staple food crop consumed by more than 30% of world population. Nitrogen (N) fertilizer has been applied broadly in agriculture practice to improve wheat yield to meet the growing demands for food production. However, undue N fertilizer application and the low N use efficiency (NUE) of modern wheat varieties are aggravating environmental pollution and ecological deterioration. Under nitrogen‐limiting conditions, the rice (Oryza sativa) abnormal cytokinin response1 repressor1 (are1) mutant exhibits increased NUE, delayed senescence and consequently, increased grain yield. However, the function of ARE1 ortholog in wheat remains unknown. Here, we isolated and characterized three TaARE1 homoeologs from the elite Chinese winter wheat cultivar ZhengMai 7698. We then used CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated targeted mutagenesis to generate a series of transgene‐free mutant lines either with partial or triple‐null taare1 alleles. All transgene‐free mutant lines showed enhanced tolerance to N starvation, and showed delayed senescence and increased grain yield in field conditions. In particular, the AABBdd and aabbDD mutant lines exhibited delayed senescence and significantly increased grain yield without growth defects compared to the wild‐type control. Together, our results underscore the potential to manipulate ARE1 orthologs through gene editing for breeding of high‐yield wheat as well as other cereal crops with improved NUE.
Differences in citation proportions in CATA questions can be interpreted as differences perceived intensity of sensory attributes
Authors: Vidal Leticia , Ares Gastón , Jaeger Sara R.
Published: July 2021

CATA (check‐all‐that‐apply) questions enjoy high popularity for sensory product characterization with consumers. Amidst extensive methodological characterization, the meaning of term citation frequency has received modest attention only, possibly hindering further uptake. The present research performed a more detailed exploration of the relationship between CATA responses and perceived intensity of sensory attributes. In addition, the following question was addressed: How many consumers are necessary to interpret differences in CATA citation proportions as a proxy of differences in perceived intensity? The present research includes new empirical data from four consumer studies conducted in New Zealand and China under central location test conditions and a re‐analysis of one consumer study. When dealing with samples with clear differences, the percentage of consumers selecting a sensory term for describing samples tended to be linearly correlated to average intensity ratings. A median of 15 consumers was needed for CATA to show good linear correlations with average intensity ratings, and the minimum number of consumers needed to reach the threshold for a good correlation was generally lower than 30.

Practical Applications

Results add to existing guidelines and say that for sets of sample sets with at least moderate differences in a specific attribute, a minimum of 50 consumers is necessary to obtain reliable sensory characterizations using CATA questions and interpret differences in citation proportions as a proxy for differences in the perceived intensity of that attribute. However, practitioners should be aware of the limitations of CATA questions for measuring attribute intensity, such as studies involving complex terms or samples with subtle intensity differences.
Brachystelma ananthagiriense (Apocynaceae), a new species from Ananthagiri hills, Telangana, India
Authors: Paramesh L. , Prasad K. , Sadasivaiah B. , Vijaya Bhasker Reddy A.
Published: July 2021

A new species of Brachystelma, B. ananthagiriense is described and illustrated from the Ananthagiri hills of Vikarabad district, Telangana. The new species is closely similar to B. gondwanense but differs in a few attributes which are discussed. A detailed description, photographs and the conservation status of the new species are provided.
Optimality justifications and the optimality principle: New tools for foundation‐theoretic epistemology
Authors: Schurz Gerhard
Published: July 2021

The background of this paper (section 1) consists in a new account to foundation‐theoretic epistemology characterized by two features: (i) All beliefs are to be justified by deductive, inductive or abductive inferences from a minimalistic class of unproblematic (introspective or analytic) basic beliefs. (ii) Higher‐order justifications for these inferences are given by means of the novel method of optimality justifications. Optimality justifications are a new tool for epistemology (section 2). An optimality justification does not attempt todemonstratethat a cognitive method is reliable (which is impossible), but pursues the more modest goal of demonstrating that the method isoptimalamong all accessible alternative methods for the given epistemic goal. The reasoning from the established optimality of a method to the acceptability of a particular belief generated by the method is accomplished by so‐called optimality principles. In sections 3–5, the method of optimality justifications is carried out in detail for three fundamental problems: justifying induction, logic, and theory‐generating abduction.
Sesame β‐ketoacyl‐acyl carrier protein synthase I regulates pollen development by interacting with an adenosine triphosphate‐binding cassette transporter in transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhou Ting , Yang Yuanxiao , Li Tianyu , Liu Hongyan , Zhou Fang , Zhao Yingzhong
Published: July 2021

Male gametogenesis is an important biological process critical for seed formation and successful breeding. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of male fertility might facilitate hybrid breeding and increase crop yields. Sesame anther development is largely unknown. Here, a sesame β‐ketoacyl‐[acyl carrier protein] synthase I (SiKASI) was cloned and characterized as being involved in pollen and pollen wall development. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the spatiotemporal expression of SiKASI protein was altered in sterile sesame anthers compared with fertile anthers. In addition, SiKASI overexpression in Arabidopsis caused male sterility. Cytological observations revealed defective microspore and pollen wall development in SiKASI‐overexpressing plants. Aberrant lipid droplets were detected in the tapetal cells of SiKASI‐overexpressing plants, and most of the microspores of transgenic plants contained few cytoplasmic inclusions, with irregular pollen wall components embedded on their surfaces. Moreover, the fatty acid metabolism and the expression of a sporopollenin biosynthesis‐related gene set were altered in the anthers of SiKASI‐overexpressing plants. Additionally, SiKASI interacted with an adenosine triphosphate (ATP)‐binding cassette (ABC) transporter. Taken together, our findings suggested that SiKASI was crucial for fatty acid metabolism and might interact with ABCG18 for normal pollen fertility in Arabidopsis.
Urban cash transfers and poverty in Ghana
Authors: Cuesta Jose , Danquah Michael
Published: July 2021

The increasing attention to social protection in urban settings is not being paired with increasing evidence. This paper offers a single ex‐ante evaluation methodology that simulates the monetary poverty effects of changing eligibility conditions, unitary benefits, and the composition of cash transfer programs aimed at expanding coverage in urban areas. We apply this methodology to Ghana, a growing, middle‐income country committed to reducing poverty but with a weak social protection system with little urban presence. We show that while a flagship cash transfer program, the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty program (LEAP), transfers less than GHS 34 million (US$7.6 million) a year, ending extreme poverty in Ghana would require spending around GHS 1,800 million ($400 million). Efforts to tackle urban poverty through transfers will prove unsuccessful without enough fiscal resources.
Adolescent Health Series: The health of adolescents in sub‐Saharan Africa: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Ross David A. , Mshana Gerry , Guthold Regina
Published: July 2021

Objective

This article provides a concise overview of the current challenges that adolescents face in sub‐Saharan Africa, summarises possible solutions and ongoing efforts to implement these, and briefly introduces the subsequent papers of this series.

Methods

We draw on data from the WHO Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health and Ageing Data Portal.

Results

The opportunity provided by the growing number of adolescents in sub‐Saharan Africa will only be realised if they survive, are healthy, receive a quality education and remain in Africa rather than joining the increasing out‐migration exodus. Fortunately, there is an increasing focus on adolescent health and well‐being both globally and in sub‐Saharan Africa, and growing knowledge of what to do to promote adolescent health and well‐being and how to do it, and a powerful resource in the form of adolescents themselves.

Conclusion

There is no time to lose. African adolescents demand it, but are also ready to be part of the solution.
Platelet‐to‐red blood cell ratio and mortality in bleeding trauma patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kleinveld Derek J. B. , van Amstel Rombout B. E. , Wirtz Mathijs R. , Geeraedts Leo M. G. , Goslings J. Carel , Hollmann Markus W. , Juffermans Nicole P.
Published: July 2021

Background

In traumatic bleeding, transfusion practice has shifted toward higher doses of platelets and plasma transfusion. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate whether a higher platelet‐to‐red blood cell (RBC) transfusion ratio improves mortality without worsening organ failure when compared with a lower ratio of platelet‐to‐RBC.

Methods

Pubmed, Medline, and Embase were screened for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in bleeding trauma patients (age ≥16 years) receiving platelet transfusion between 1946 until October 2020. High platelet:RBC ratio was defined as being the highest ratio within an included study. Primary outcome was 24 hour mortality. Secondary outcomes were 30‐day mortality, thromboembolic events, organ failure, and correction of coagulopathy.

Results

In total five RCTs (n = 1757 patients) were included. A high platelet:RBC compared with a low platelet:RBC ratio significantly improved 24 hour mortality (odds ratio [OR] 0.69 [0.53–0.89]) and 30‐ day mortality (OR 0.78 [0.63–0.98]). There was no difference between platelet:RBC ratio groups in thromboembolic events and organ failure. Correction of coagulopathy was reported in five studies, in which platelet dose had no impact on trauma‐induced coagulopathy.

Conclusions

In traumatic bleeding, a high platelet:RBC improves mortality as compared to low platelet:RBC ratio. The high platelet:RBC ratio does not influence thromboembolic or organ failure event rates.
Civilian walking blood bank emergency preparedness plan
Authors: Holcomb John B. , Spinella Philip C. , Apelseth Torunn Oveland , Butler Frank K. , Cannon Jeremy W. , Cap Andrew P. , Corley Jason B. , Doughty Heidi , Fitzpatrick Michael , Goldkind Sara F. , Gurney Jennifer M. , Homer Mary J. , Ilstrup Sarah J. , Jansen Jan O. , Jenkins Donald H. , Marques Marisa B. , Moore Eugene E. , Ness Paul M. , O'Connor Kevin C. , Schreiber Martin A. , Shinar Eilat , Sloan Steve , Strandenes Geir , Stubbs James R. , Taylor Audra L. , Ward Kevin R. , Waltman Elizabeth , Yazer Mark
Published: July 2021

Background

The current global pandemic has created unprecedented challenges in the blood supply network. Given the recent shortages, there must be a civilian plan for massively bleeding patients when there are no blood products on the shelf. Recognizing that the time to death in bleeding patients is less than 2 h, timely resupply from unaffected locations is not possible. One solution is to transfuse emergency untested whole blood (EUWB), similar to the extensive military experience fine‐tuned over the last 19 years. While this concept is anathema in current civilian transfusion practice, it seems prudent to have a vetted plan in place.

Methods and Materials

During the early stages of the 2020 global pandemic, a multidisciplinary and international group of clinicians with broad experience in transfusion medicine communicated routinely. The result is a planning document that provides both background information and a high‐level guide on how to emergently deliver EUWB for patients who would otherwise die of hemorrhage.

Results and Conclusions

Similar plans have been utilized in remote locations, both on the battlefield and in civilian practice. The proposed recommendations are designed to provide high‐level guidance for experienced blood bankers, transfusion experts, clinicians, and health authorities. Like with all emergency preparedness, it is always better to have a well‐thought‐out and trained plan in place, rather than trying to develop a hasty plan in the midst of a disaster. We need to prevent the potential for empty shelves and bleeding patients dying for lack of blood.
Quantification of anti‐A of IgM or IgG isotype using three different methodologies
Authors: Sprogøe Ulrik , Assing Kristian , Nielsen Christian , Rasmussen Mads Hvidkjær , Yazer Mark H.
Published: July 2021

Background

Reliability of ABO‐antibody measurement is important in the context of supplying low‐titer ABO incompatible plasma‐containing blood products. This study investigated the correlation of anti‐A measurements between three different titer methodologies.

Methods

Thirty‐four blood group O individuals were included. IgM and IgG anti‐A was measured by three different methods: (1) manual method (Bio‐Rad ID‐gel card), (2) automated method (Immucor NEO), (3) flow cytometry (FC) with calibration in molecules of equivalent fluorochrome (MEF). Data were log2 transformed to titer steps (TS) and log2 MEF, respectively. All three methods were benchmarked against the 14/300 WHO anti‐A/anti‐B standard reagent.

Results

The correlation between the manual and automated methods was statistically significant for both IgM (Spearman's rs = 0.89, p < .0001) and IgG (rs = 0.95, p < .0001). The mean TS difference between the manual and automated methods was 0.61 for IgM (p = .0033) and 2.1 for IgG (p < .0001). The manual method yielded IgM titer results that were generally 1 titer step higher than the automated method, whereas for the IgG titrations the difference was generally a median of 2 TS higher. The FC median log2 MEF level was significantly correlated with TS of IgG and IgM for both manual and automated agglutination‐based titer methods (0.69 ≤ r2 ≤ 0.91). With the WHO standard reagent, the manual method produced the expected results while the automated method's results were 1 TS lower for both IgM and IgG at all dilutions tested.

Conclusion

These results indicate that all three methods are suitable for measuring anti‐A in group O whole blood.