bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Projections of leaf turgor loss point shifts under future climate change scenarios
Authors: Tordoni Enrico , Petruzzellis Francesco , Di Bonaventura Azzurra , Pavanetto Nicola , Tomasella Martina , Nardini Andrea , Boscutti Francesco , Martini Fabrizio , Bacaro Giovanni
Published: August 2022

Predicting the consequences of climate change is of utmost importance to mitigate impacts on vulnerable ecosystems; plant hydraulic traits are particularly useful proxies for predicting functional disruptions potentially occurring in the near future. This study assessed the current and future regional patterns of leaf water potential at turgor loss point (Ψtlp) by measuring and projecting the Ψtlp of 166 vascular plant species (159 angiosperms and 7 gymnosperms) across a large climatic range spanning from alpine to Mediterranean areas in NE Italy. For angiosperms, random forest models predicted a consistent shift toward more negative values in low‐elevation areas, whereas for gymnosperms the pattern was more variable, particularly in the alpine sector (i.e., Alps and Prealps). Simulations were also developed to evaluate the number of threatened species under two Ψtlp plasticity scenarios (low vs. high plasticity), and it was found that in the worst‐case scenario approximately 72% of the angiosperm species and 68% of gymnosperms within a location were at risk to exceed their physiological plasticity. The different responses to climate change by specific clades might produce reassembly in natural communities, undermining the resilience of natural ecosystems to climate change.
Age, petrogenesis, and tectonic implications of the late Permian magmatic rocks in the Middle Gobi volcanoplutonic Belt, Mongolia
Authors: Ganbat Ariuntsetseg , Tsujimori Tatsuki , Miao Laicheng , Safonova Inna , Pastor‐Galán Daniel , Anaad Chimedtseren , Aoki Shogo , Aoki Kazumasa , Chimedsuren Munkhnasan
Published: August 2022

The Mongol–Okhotsk Belt, the youngest segment of Central Asian Orogenic Belt, was formed by the evolution and closure of the Mongol–Okhotsk Ocean. The oceanic closure formed two volcanoplutonic belts: Selenge Belt in the north and the Middle Gobi Belt in the south (in present day coordinates). However, the origin and tectonic evolution of the Mongol–Okhotsk Belt in general, and the origin and formation age of the Middle Gobi Belt in particular, remain enigmatic. To better understand the history of the magmatic activity in the Middle Gobi Belt, we conducted geochemical, U–Pb geochronological, zircon Hf, and whole‐rock Nd isotopic analyses of samples from the Mandalgovi volcanoplutonic suite, the major component of the Middle Gobi Belt. Our results show that the plutonic rock consists of ~285 Ma gabbro, ~265 Ma biotite‐granite and ~250 Ma hornblende‐granodiorite. The volcanic counterpart is represented by a Permian Sahalyn gol rhyolite and ~247 Ma Ikh khad andesite. The geochemical compositions of biotite‐granite and hornblende‐granodiorite indicate that their precursors were metagraywacke and amphibolite, respectively. They are characterized by positive whole‐rock εNd(t) and zircon εHf(t) values, indicating juvenile protoliths. The gabbro was derived by partial melting of a metasomatized lithospheric mantle source in a supra‐subduction setting. The biotite‐granite and Sahalyn gol rhyolite are formed by remelting of sediments in an inter‐arc extension setting. Later the hornblende‐granite and Ikh khad volcanic were emplaced at a volcanic arc formed by the subduction of the Mongol–Okhotsk Ocean. We conclude that the magmatic rocks of the Middle Gobi Belt formed in an active continental margin setting. Considering the consistent distribution of coeval arc‐derived magmatic formations along the southern margin of the Mongol–Okhotsk Belt, the oceanic basin was closed in a relatively simultaneous manner.
Effects of root canal enlargement on unprepared areas and coronal dentine thickness of three‐rooted maxillary first premolars with different root configurations: A stepwise micro‐CT study
Authors: Versiani Marco A. , Carvalho Kleber K. T. , Martins Jorge N. R. , Custódio Antonio L. N. , Castro Maurício A. A. , Akaki Emílio , Silva‐Sousa Yara T. C. S. , Sousa‐Neto Manoel D.
Published: August 2022

Aim

To evaluate the effects of progressive root canal enlargements on the unprepared surface area and remaining dentine thickness of three‐rooted maxillary first premolars with different root configurations.

Methodology

Thirty three‐rooted maxillary first premolars with three root configurations (n = 10) were selected and scanned in a micro‐CT device. The root canals were sequentially enlarged with rotary instruments sizes 30.02 (step 1), 30.04 (step 2) and 30.06 (step 3). After each step, a new scan was taken. Analysed parameters included morphometric measurements (length, volume and surface area), number of static voxels and minimal dentine thickness. Statistical analyses were performed with one‐way anova post hoc Tukey tests and paired sample t‐test at a significance level of 5%.

Results

No statistical differences were observed amongst groups regarding the morphometric parameters and static voxels (p > .05). The minimal dentine thickness of the distobuccal root significantly changed depending on the root configuration (p < .05), whilst no differences were observed in the other roots (p > .05). A great variation in the position of the minimal dentine thickness was observed after preparation. Overall, mean percentage reduction in dentine thickness was higher in the buccal roots than in the palatal root (p < .05). In the mesiobuccal and distobuccal root, the number of slices with minimal dentine thickness lower than 0.05 mm increases 2 to 3 times and 3 to 4 times, respectively, from steps 1 to 3.

Conclusions

Instruments sizes 30.02 and 30.04 can be safely and effectively used to enlarge the buccal and palatal canals of three‐rooted maxillary first premolars.
Inventions on phosphate‐free chemical leavening
Authors: Gélinas Pierre
Published: August 2022

Phosphate‐based acid‐reacting compounds are major constituents of chemical leavening, which also contain gas‐releasing compounds such as sodium bicarbonate. The aim of this study was to review phosphate‐free leavening acids according to the patent literature, a source of information that is rarely cited. Not less than 65 phosphate‐free acids were mentioned in patent specifications on chemical leavening that were filed between 1836 and 2021; most of these novel acid‐reacting materials were first introduced in letters patent for inventions, 138 in total. Inventors had more interest in tartrates, lactates, sulphates and lactones. In the recent years, there has been renewed interest for highly wholesome, nonsynthetic, aluminium‐free, phosphate‐free and sodium‐free baking powder formulations that would not impart off‐taste to bakery foods. Acid‐free activating materials such as calcium chloride have been proposed to reduce the level of chemical leavening in bakery foods and improve their flavour.
A randomized trial comparing diet and delivery strategies for weight management in adolescents with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Ptomey Lauren T. , Washburn Richard A. , Goetz Jeannine R. , Sullivan Debra K. , Gibson Cheryl A. , Mayo Matthew S. , Krebill Ron , Gorczyca Anna M. , Honas Jeffery J. , Rice Anna M. , Helsel Brian C. , Lee Robert H. , Donnelly Joseph E.
Published: August 2022

Background

The literature evaluating multi‐component interventions for long‐term weight loss in adolescents with intellectual disabilities (ID) is extremely limited.

Objectives

To compare the effectiveness of two delivery strategies, face‐to‐face (FTF) or remote delivery (RD), and two diets, enhanced Stop Light diet (eSLD) or conventional diet (CD) on weight change across 12 and 18 months. in response to an 18 months. weight management intervention (6 months Weight loss/12 months. Weight maintenance) in adolescents with ID.

Methods

Adolescents with ID were randomized to one of three arms: FTF /CD, RD/CD, RD/eSLD and asked to attend individual education sessions with a health educator which were delivered during FTF home visits or remotely using video conferencing. The CD followed the US dietary guidelines. The eSLD utilized the Stop Light guide and was enhanced with portion‐controlled meals. Participants were also asked to increase their physical activity (PA) and to self‐monitor diet, PA and body weight across the 18‐month. intervention.

Results

Weight was obtained from 92(84%) and 89(81%) randomized adolescents at 12 and 18 months, respectively. Weight change across 12 months. Differed significantly by diet (RD/eSLD: −7.0% vs. RD/CD: −1.1%, p = 0.002) but not by delivery strategy (FTF/CD: +1.1% vs. RD/CD: −1.1%, p = 0.21). Weight change across 18 months. Was minimal in all intervention arms and did not differ by diet (RD/eSLD: −2.6% vs. RD/CD: −0.5%; p = 0.28) or delivery strategy (FTF/CD: +1.6% vs. RD/CD: −0.5%; p = 0.47).

Conclusions

Additional research is required to identify effective strategies to improve long‐term weight loss in adolescents with ID.
Explanatory model of symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression in the general population: Cross‐sectional study during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Brito Héctor , Andrade Daniela , Rojas Germán , Martinez Aldo , Alfaro Jose
Published: August 2022

COVID‐19 pandemic has had a great impact worldwide, specially affecting mental health and has undoubtedly taken part in human behaviour modification, increasing global health burden and with stress, anxiety and depression being the main contributors to this load. Because of the importance of this issue, the objective of this study was the creation of an explanatory model for the causal relationship of the main psychological variables: stress, anxiety and depression in the COVID‐19 pandemic context. A cross‐sectional study was carried out with a sample of 709 volunteers, sociodemographic variables and psychological symptoms were measured through a virtual DASS‐21 questionnaire, during the COVID‐19 pandemic, dated from November 2 to 6, 2020. A structural equation model using the weighted least squares means and the adjusted variance was employed for the creation and adjustment of the explanatory relational model. The results showed the presence of stress, anxiety and depression symptoms among the general population. The model showed an adequate fit (CFI = 0.94; TLI = 0.94; RMSEA = 0.06; P = 0.000) and was able to explain more than 80% of depressive symptoms (R2 = 0.86) and more than 70% of anxiety symptoms (R2 = 0.72), in addition to showing a unidirectional causal relationship of long‐term stress on anxiety, and anxiety on depressive symptoms, showing a linked behaviour of the same, in the adjusted model. It was also outlined that this model was characterized by being expressed mainly in women, with lower quality of sleep and at a younger age.
Service quality and price competition in crowdsourced delivery markets
Authors: He Shan , Ma Zujun
Published: August 2022

On‐demand crowdsourced delivery platforms (CDPs) must consider service quality and price when making their decisions. In addition, CDPs may value service quality and price differently during different stages of development. Therefore, we focus on exploring the service quality and pricing strategies of duopoly CDPs under two different competition scenarios: pure price competition and joint price and service quality competition. A Hotelling framework and simultaneous game model are employed to match the two competition scenarios in real business. First, we derive the optimal solutions for the single‐homing scenario. The results show that quality differences create differentiated equilibrium prices under pure price competition. In particular, large quality differences benefit superior CDPs. Under joint price and service quality competition, CDPs set the same service quality and price, and gain the same number of agents and the same profits. Second, we extend the basic model by considering cost asymmetry, multi‐homing behavior, and different charging schemes for couriers. Compared with the basic model under joint price and service quality competition, the CDPs’ service quality and pricing decisions differ when they have different cost control and charging schemes but are identical in the multi‐homing scenario.
Southern hemisphere tectonics in the Cenozoic shaped the pantropical distribution of parrots and passerines
Authors: Selvatti Alexandre Pedro , Galvão Ana , Mayr Gerald , Miyaki Cristina Yumi , Russo Claudia Augusta de Moraes
Published: August 2022

Aim

Explanations of pantropical distributions are challenging for taxa that diverged during the Cenozoic, after Gondwana broke apart. The ‘boreotropics hypothesis’ suggests that pantropical birds originated in the Laurasian forests. Extant parrots (Psittaciformes) are one the most species‐rich pantropical avian clades, but their known evolutionary history does not fit a boreotropical origin. Most living parrots and the earliest diverging lineages of the Psittaciformes inhabit the remnants of Gondwana, whereas the oldest stem and crown fossils are from the remnants of Laurasia. Our study proposes a biogeographic hypothesis that focuses on the Cenozoic connections between Laurasia and Gondwana to explain extant and fossil geographical distributions.

Location

Global.

Taxon

Psittaciformes.

Methods

We generated a time tree using previously derived data from 32 molecular markers for 312 parrot species and reconstructed their biogeographic history using maximum likelihood. Two scenarios were compared: one with dispersal constrained to adjacent areas, including the connections between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, and one without this constraint.

Results

Our results indicate that the pantropical distribution of parrots was shaped by two major geological events. First, the final breakup of parts of Gondwana may have caused the first splits within crown parrots, establishing two parallel radiations: Psittacidae in the Neotropics and Psittaculidae in Australasia. Second, igneous palaeoprovinces could have connected major biogeographic realms. It seems that Atlantogea and Eurogondwana were important, as they connected South America, Africa and Europe, thus reconciling the Gondwanan crown splits and the early Laurasian fossils.

Main Conclusions

Our time tree allowed more concise biogeographic correlations between parrots and their sister group, the passerines and Earth's tectonic history. The crown lineages of Psittacopasseres appear to have originated in the Southern Hemisphere remnants of Gondwana, but stem lineages appear to have been able to disperse into the Northern Hemisphere through palaeobiogeographic provinces in the Cenozoic.
Burden of caregivers and out‐of‐pocket expenditures related to epidermolysis bullosa in France
Authors: Bourrat Emmanuelle , Taieb Charles , Marquié Adrien , Causse Patricia , Bergqvist Christina , Sauvestre Angelique , Bellon Nathalia
Published: August 2022

Introduction and objectives

Inherited epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a heterogeneous group of genodermatoses characterized by localized or generalized skin and/or mucosal fragility. The objective of this work was to evaluate in France the burden of disease and out‐of‐pocket (OOP) expenditures for families with a child affected by EB.

Material and methods

A digital questionnaire was built and distributed to parents of children with EB in partnership with the patients' association DEBRA France. The questionnaire collected clinical and socioeconomic characteristics including the estimated amount of money caregivers had to pay out of their own pockets. The burden of caregivers was assessed using the validated Epidermolysis Bullosa Burden of Disease (EB‐BoD) tool. Linear univariate regression models were conducted to search for factors associated with higher burden and higher OOP.

Results

Between October and December 2021, 77 parents answered the questionnaire. The responder was the child's mother in 77% (n = 59) of cases. Parents represented 40 girls and 37 boys with a mean age of 7.5 years and with different EB types and disease severity. The mean BE‐BOD score was 63.9 ± 20.2. The mean score observed in children with severe EB was 69.0 ± 21 versus 59.0 ± 18.6 for moderate/mild. Similarly, the mean BE‐BOD scores observed in parents performing daily wound care were 67.9 ± 19.6. All parents (100%) reported OOP expenses. The mean annual OOP cost was 4129€ ± 4321€. Linear regression demonstrated that for each one‐point increase in the EB‐BoD score, OOP expense increases by 91.1 euros (35.1–147) p = 0.002.

Conclusion

EB places a considerable burden on families' daily lives. This burden is closely associated with OOP expenditures to manage EB which were on average 20 times higher compared with the French population.
Moth light traps perform better with vanes: A comparison of different designs
Authors: Singh Rachit Pratap , Böttger Dennis , Brehm Gunnar
Published: August 2022

Many light trap designs exist in the field of applied and basic entomology for catching moths, yet a robust comparative analysis of structural designs of such traps is lacking. Our study compares the performance of three different trap designs to assess the effect of presence/absence of vanes and their colour on trapping efficiency. LepiLED lamps were used in all traps as the light source. We hypothesized that traps with vanes (white and black) would perform better than the same trap with rods, since it improves flight interception of insects. Furthermore, we expected that between the two designs with vanes white would be more efficient than black due to a higher radiation emission and better visibility. The study was conducted between July and September 2021 at two locations in the nature reserve Jenaer Forst (Jena, Germany, N 50.926694, E 11.556583). At each location, we sampled in three understorey sites parallelly. The abundance, diversity and body size of 4432 moths belonging to 170 species and 12 different families were analysed. Traps with white vanes performed best with 10.5% more individuals and 7% more species than the trap with black vanes and with 19% more individuals and 16% more species than the traps with rods. Differences were significant between the two vane traps against rods, for both individuals and species, but differences between the two vane traps were not. In addition, traps with white vanes and with rods were tested indoors under controlled conditions for selected species. In four out of ten species, significantly more individuals were collected in the vane traps. We conclude that the use of vanes as a flight interception tool is important for improving the trapping efficiency. The colour of vanes is also likely to play a role because of an overall higher radiation emission and better visibility for insects.
Prevalence of Obesity and Anemia Among Early Adolescents in Junior Secondary Schools: A Cross‐Sectional Study in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Authors: Mank Isabel , De Neve Jan‐Walter , Mauti Joy , Gyengani Guillaume A. , Somé Paul‐André , Shinde Sachin , Fawzi Wafaie , Bärnighausen Till , Vandormael Alain
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

The school presents an ideal environment to positively impact the long‐term health and nutrition outcomes of early adolescents, who are at risk of obesity and anemia.

METHODS

In this cross‐sectional survey, we described differences in weight and anemia by sociodemographic, diet and physical activity indicators among 1059 students aged 11 to 15 years from 22 junior secondary schools in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Weight was based on body mass index (BMI) z‐scores according to the WHO reference and anemia status was defined by standardized hemoglobin (Hb) measure cut‐offs. We calculated dietary diversity scores (DDS) from a 24‐hour dietary recall and a global diet quality score (GDQS) from a 7‐day dietary recall.

RESULTS

The prevalence of obesity (5%) and anemia (50%) was relatively high among the students, which differed significantly between gender, household wealth and school grade, but not age groups. Eighteen percent of the female adolescents were overweight or obese and 22% were moderately anemic compared to 13% and 16% of the male adolescents. Dietary diversity was significantly different between weight categories, but not anemia status. For physical activity, those taking transportation to school were significantly more likely to be overweight or obese. In adjusted multivariable Poisson regression analyses, only the DDS was significantly associated with thinness and both thinness and anemia, while taking transportation to school was significantly associated with overweight among adolescents.

CONCLUSION

We encourage the promotion of school‐based interventions and provision of a curriculum on health and healthy eating in order to reduce obesity, anemia, and its comorbidities.
Tobacco Smoke Exposure, School Engagement, School Success, and Afterschool Activity Participation Among US Children
Authors: Merianos Ashley L. , Jacobs Wura , Olaniyan Afolakemi C. , Smith Matthew Lee , Mahabee‐Gittens E. Melinda
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Tobacco smoke exposure (TSE), defined as secondhand smoke (SHS) and thirdhand smoke (THS), is associated with negative health consequences. This study's objective was to assess the associations between home TSE status and school engagement, school success, and afterschool activity participation among school‐aged children.

METHODS

We conducted a secondary analysis of 2018‐2019 National Survey of Children's Health cross‐sectional data. Children ages 6‐11 years (N = 17,466) were categorized into home TSE groups: no home TSE; THS exposure only; and SHS and THS exposure. Weighted logistic and Poisson regression models were built.

RESULTS

Compared to children with no home TSE, children with home THS exposure only and SHS and THS exposure were at decreased odds of being engaged in school (AOR = 0.69, 95%CI = 0.57, 0.83; AOR = 0.63, 95%CI = 0.41, 0.97, respectively), and at increased odds of having ≥1 school‐to‐home contact about child problems in school (AOR = 1.83, 95%CI = 1.50, 2.23; AOR = 1.58, 95%CI = 1.05, 2.37, respectively). Children with THS exposure only were at increased odds of missing ≥1 school day (AOR = 1.43, 95%CI = 1.13, 1.81). Children with THS exposure only (ARR = 0.90, 95%CI = 0.83, 0.96) and SHS and THS exposure (ARR = 0.74, 95%CI = 0.61, 0.89) were at reduced likelihood of participating in a higher number of afterschool activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Children exposed to home tobacco smoke are at unique risk for poorer school engagement and success.
Parenting and family experiences of Chinese fathers with mental illness
Authors: Chen Lingling , Vivekananda Kitty , Guan Lili , Reupert Andrea
Published: August 2022

Accessible Summary

What is known on the subject?

Having a mental illness may undermine men's self‐image as a father while having children may facilitate their recovery.

Many fathers who experience mental health issues experience stigma and are reluctant to seek support in their parental role.

Most studies in this field focus on fathers from Western countries.

What does the paper add to existing knowledge?

Similar to Western fathers, Chinese fathers reported both negative parenting (parenting disengagement, harsh parenting and inconsistent discipline) and positive father–child interactions when ill.

Unlike their Western counterparts, Chinese fathers relied on extended family support in their parenting role, though this support was problematic at times.

What are the implications for practice?

This research helps mental health nurses understand the experiences of Chinese fathers with mental illness.

Findings suggest that specific cultural adaptions to family‐focused interventions are needed for the Chinese context including considering extended family members (e.g. grandparents).

Introduction

Parenting roles are important for those with a mental illness. While research on mothers is well established there is scant focus on fathers with mental illness, especially in non‐Anglophone countries.

Aim

To better understand the parenting and family experiences of fathers, who have a mental illness, from the People's Republic of China.

Method

Qualitative semi‐structured interviews were conducted with nine Chinese fathers with mental illness, using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Results

Seven superordinate themes were identified: (i) mental illness undermines idealized images of fatherhood; (ii) parenting in the context of mental illness; (iii) concerns about the negative impact of their illness on children; (iv) children as a burden and a source of hope; (v) stigma; (vi) relying on family support; and (vii) unmet professional and peer support needs.

Discussion

Chinese fathers held a gendered image of fatherhood, and experienced self‐stigma for not living up to their ideal sense of fatherhood, which resulted in a reluctance to seek support. This study adds to the existing literature by focusing on Chinese fathers. Although many of their experiences are similar to fathers from Western countries, some differences were found, notably around a reliance on extended family support.

Implications for practice

Nurses and other mental health professionals need to adopt a family‐focused, culturally informed approach to supporting Chinese fathers with mental illness and their families.
Dec2 negatively regulates bone resorption in periodontitis
Authors: Li Xiaoyan , Guo Lijia , Sato Fuyuki , Kitayama Toshiyasu , Tewari Nitesh , Makishima Makoto , Hamada Nobushiro , Liu Yi , Bhawal Ujjal K.
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives

The potential role of the transcription factor Differentiated embryo‐chondrocyte 2 (Dec2) in the progression of inflammatory diseases such as periodontitis has been unclear. Here, the effect of Dec2 on the expression of RANKL and on osteoclastogenesis was determined.

Material and Methods

Wild‐type (WT) and Dec2 knockout (KO) mice as a model for periodontitis were used to assess alveolar bone resorption by microcomputed tomography (CT). Western blot, flow cytometry, quantitative real‐time PCR, and immunohistochemical analyses were utilized to detect inflammation and osteoclasts. Luciferase reporter and Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays examined the interaction between Dec2 and RANKL.

Results

Micro‐CT showed that the alveolar bone resorption of Dec2KO mice was more severe than WT mice after treatment with P. gingivalis. Immunohistochemistry and Tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase staining showed active osteoclast differentiation in Dec2KO mice. There was an increase in CD11b+F4/80+ and CD4+RANKL+ T cells in Dec2KO mice treated with P. gingivalis. Moreover, inflammatory and immune markers were expressed at significantly higher levels in gingival mononuclear cells in Dec2KO mice. Furthermore, luciferase reporter and ChIP assays confirmed the direct binding of Dec2 protein to the RANKL gene.

Conclusion

Dec2 has an immune regulation ability that modulates P. gingivalis‐induced periodontitis via RANKL.
Fine‐scale vegetation complexity and habitat structure influence predation pressure on a declining snake
Authors: Duchesne T. , Graitson E. , Lourdais O. , Ursenbacher S. , Dufrêne M.
Published: August 2022

In Western Europe, omnipresent human activities have considerable impacts on habitats at several spatial scales resulting in direct shifts in habitat characteristics. These modifications in habitat features can disrupt biotic interactions such as predation. Surprisingly, although snake species are facing a worldwide decline, relationships between habitat characteristics and predation pressure in snakes remain poorly understood. The main goal of this study was to assess predation pressure on a snake species (the common adder; Vipera berus) in relation to two habitat characteristics: fine‐scale (microhabitat) vegetation complexity and habitat structure (linear/non‐linear). Using 2400 artificial plasticine models of adder as lures in 12 sites in Wallonia (Belgium), we quantified and compared the relative predation risk with respect to these two habitat features. We showed that, all predators combined (mammals and birds), increasing vegetation complexity had a positive impact by decreasing predation pressure, while habitat linearity increased attack risk on adders. However, for mammalian predators, increasing structural complexity reduced predation risk in non‐linear habitats while this risk remained constant and substantial in linear habitats. This suggests that the abiotic benefits of linear strips or edges may be balanced by high predation risks. For bird predators, habitat linearity had no effect on attack rates while an increase in structural complexity reduced attack probabilities. In the light of these results, we suggest applying management practices that ensure a high degree of structural complexity in semi‐natural habitats concerned with snake conservation. Moreover, we recommend creating non‐linear, highly structured habitat elements to hamper predation pressure by mammals.
Size frequency, length‐weight relationships, condition factor and relationships between fish size and otolith dimensions in the Pama croaker Otolithoides pama (Hamilton, 1822) from Lower Meghna River Estuary, Bangladesh
Authors: Bhuiya Ananya , Siddique Mohammad Abdul Momin
Published: August 2022

The relationships between fish size, weight and otolith morphometry are useful for fisheries management, predator–prey studies and feeding habits. Accordingly, the main purpose of the present study was to determine the relationships between body length, body weight and otolith dimensions, and to calculate the length‐weight relationship and condition factor for a Sciaenid fish Pama croaker, Otolithoides pama (Hamilton, 1822) from the Lower Meghna estuary, Bangladesh. Field sampling was conducted from September 2019 to March 2020. The length, breadth and weight were measured for each pair of sagittae, as well as the total length (TL), standard length (SL) and body weight (BW) for each specimen. A total of 246 fish samples were collected. The TL and BW of collected individuals ranged from 14.40 to 27.40‐cm and 21 to 175‐g, respectively. The calculated growth coefficient (b = 3.018 for males; 3.052 for females) were >3, indicating the fish follow a positive allometric growth. The mean Fulton's condition (Kn) values ranged from 0.674 ± 0.06 to 0.776 ± 0.07, exhibiting similar trends for all size classes. The relationships for fish size and otolith morphometry were described by linear regression models as TL = 0.048OL – 0.308 (r2 = 0.921); BW = 0.047OL + 6.252 (r2 = 0.929); TL = 0.003OW – 0.414 (r2 = 0.836); BW = 0.003OW + 0.039 (r2 = 0.81). The otolith length and weight exhibited a strong correlation (0.929 > r2 > 0.805) with total length and body weight, while the otolith breadth exhibited a weak correlation. No significant differences between left and right otolith were observed (p > .05). Because the results of the present study indicated fish length and otolith growth have a positive relationship, this finding can be a valuable tool to evaluate fish growth by back‐calculating the length of a fish from its otolith characteristics.
Targeting of genomic and negative‐sense strands of viral RNA contributes to antiviral resistance mediated by artificial miRNAs and promotes the emergence of complex viral populations
Authors: Mesel Frida , Zhao Mingmin , García Beatriz , Simón‐Mateo Carmen , García Juan Antonio
Published: August 2022

Technology based on artificial small RNAs, including artificial microRNAs (amiRNAs), exploits natural RNA silencing mechanisms to achieve silencing of endogenous genes or pathogens. This technology has been successfully employed to generate resistance against different eukaryotic viruses. However, information about viral RNA molecules effectively targeted by these small RNAs is rather conflicting, and factors contributing to the selection of virus mutants escaping the antiviral activity of virus‐specific small RNAs have not been studied in detail. In this work, we transformed Nicotiana benthamiana plants with amiRNA constructs designed against the potyvirus plum pox virus (PPV), a positive‐sense RNA virus, and obtained lines highly resistant to PPV infection and others showing partial resistance. These lines have allowed us to verify that amiRNA directed against genomic RNA is more efficient than amiRNA targeting its complementary strand. However, we also provide evidence that the negative‐sense RNA strand is cleaved by the amiRNA‐guided RNA silencing machinery. Our results show that the selection pressure posed by the amiRNA action on both viral RNA strands causes an evolutionary explosion that results in the emergence of a broad range of virus variants, which can further expand in the presence, and even in the absence, of antiviral challenges.
Craniofacial morphology in adults with osteogenesis imperfecta—A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Gjørup Hans , Jacobsen Pernille Endrup , Hald Jannie Dahl , Haubek Dorte
Published: August 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the craniofacial and neurocranial morphology of adults with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) with controls and to elucidate whether osseous origin impacts on morphological deviations in OI.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐four adults (mean age 45.8) with OI type I, 14 adults (mean age 42.6) with OI types III/IV and 49 adult controls (mean age 41.0) were included. All participants had European ethnicity. Cranial morphology was assessed by 2D‐cephalometry. Comparison between groups was made by multiple regression analyses.

Results

Comparison between OI groups and controls: (1) Dimension of the maxilla and mandible, respectively was reduced (P < .01), and in relation to the posterior cranial base, the maxilla was retro‐positioned (P < .001), and the mandible was prognathic (P < .001). (2) The anterior face height was reduced (P < .04), and in OI types III/IV only, the maxilla was posteriorly inclined (P < .001). (3) Anterior cranial base (P < .001) and the dimension sella‐frontale (P < .02) were short. (4) The sagittal dimension of the posterior cranial fossa was increased (P < .01), and the vertical dimension was reduced (P < .01).

Conclusions

Adults with OI had a hypoplastic, retro‐positioned and posteriorly inclined maxilla, a hypoplastic and forward‐positioned mandible, and a reduced anterior face height. Deviations were seen in morphology of the posterior cranial fossa. The impact of OI on cranial morphology was generally more evident in OI type III/IV than in OI type I. OI impacts on osseous cranial structures irrespective of bony origin being intramembranous or endochondral.
Impact of high frequency stimulation to confirm a complete box isolation in catheter ablation of non‐paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Kato Kazuo , Hasegawa Shin , Kikuchi Shun , Uehara Yukihiro , Ishiguro Nobuo , Tanaka Akimitsu , Tominaga Shimpei , Goto Hiroko , Shibata Norihisa , Kametani Ryosuke
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Pulmonary vein (PV) isolation (PVI) including the left atrial posterior wall (LAPW) (Box‐PVI) is proposed as an additional strategy for non‐paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (NPAF), however, the efficacy remains controversial. The more reliable and durable the Box‐PVI we can create, the better the rhythm outcomes might be than with a conventional PVI alone. This study focused on the potential exit conduction of the box lesion and investigated whether the conventional Box‐PVI would be sufficient.

Methods and Results

We enrolled 350 consecutive patients with NPAF that underwent a conventional encircling Box‐PVI and examined whether latent exit conduction and dormant “exit” conduction independently remained on the LAPW and in the PVs using high frequency stimulation (HFS) and an adenosine triphosphate (ATP) injection. All electrograms inside the box lesion were eliminated in all cases, however, HFS inside the box propagated outward in 23 cases (6.6%) without any exit conduction by conventional burst stimulation, and 24 cases (6.9%) exhibited only dormant “exit” conduction of the LAPW. Additional ablation where positive HFSs were observed created a complete bidirectional Box‐PVI in 43 (41.3%) of the cases without a first pass Box‐PVI. The recurrence rates depended on the groups classified according to the HFS response.

Conclusion

HFS delivered with an ATP injection on the LAPW and in the PVs following a Box‐PVI could not only elucidate true exit block but also identified possible incomplete lesions or connections outside the ablation line, whose elimination could achieve a complete Box‐PVI leading to a better rhythm outcome.
Ribose and Deoxyribose Group Alter Excited‐State Dynamics of 5‐Azacytosine in Solution†
Authors: Chen Ziwei , Wang Xueli , Jia Menghui , He Xiaoxiao , Pan Haifeng , Chen Jinquan
Published: August 2022

5‐Azacytosine (5‐AC) is one of the best interesting noncanonical nucleobases due to its functionalization and structural imitation of natural bases. 5‐AC can be used as the scaffold of two important chemotherapeutic medicines, 5‐azacytidine and 2′‐deoxy‐5‐azacytidine. Furthermore, increased sensitivity to UV leads to the photochemical effects of 5‐AC also attracted attention. Yet, no study has been reported to explore the effect of glycosyl groups on the photophysical and photochemical properties of 5‐AC, which can help to reveal the photostability of related actual clinic drugs. In this study, the excited‐state dynamics of 5‐azacytidine and 2′‐deoxy‐5‐azacytidine are studied by femtosecond transient absorption and quantum‐chemical calculations while revisiting that of 5‐AC with a wider probe spectral range. It is shown that glycosyl substitution on the N1 position leads to ultrafast excited‐state relaxation within several picoseconds in both nucleosides, which is distinct compared with the 17 ps lifetime seen in 5‐AC. It is proposed that these changes are due to altering the energy level of the dark nπ* state. Moreover, our results suggest that it should be cautioned to simply replace sugar groups with methyl groups when doing a theoretical calculation study on nucleobases and their derivatives.
The epistemic imagination revisited
Authors: Kinberg Ori , Levy Arnon
Published: August 2022

Recently, various philosophers have argued that we can obtain knowledge via the imagination. In particular, it has been suggested that we can come to know concrete, empirical matters of everyday significance by appropriately imagining relevant scenarios. Arguments for this thesis come in two main varieties:black box reliabilityarguments andconstraints‐basedarguments. We suggest that both strategies are unsuccessful. Against black‐box arguments, we point to evidence from empirical psychology, question a central case‐study, and raise concerns about a (claimed) evolutionary rationale for the imagination's reliability. Against the constraints‐based account, we argue that to the extent that it works, this does not give rise to knowledge that is distinctivelyfrom the imagination. We conclude by suggesting that the imagination's role in raising possibilities, traditionally seen as part of the context of discovery, can in fact play a role in justification, including as a bulwark against certain sorts of skepticism.
Varieties of welfare markets from a street‐level perspective: Comparing long‐term care services in Germany and Israel
Authors: Cohen Nissim , Klenk Tanja , Davidovitz Maayan , Cardaun Sarah
Published: August 2022

How does the marketization of social service provision impact the practices of street‐level bureaucrats (SLBs) towards their clients? To explore this question, we compare the markets for ambulatory long‐term care for the elderly in Germany and Israel, which differ in the latitude of choice offered to clients and the intensity of state regulation. Based on 52 qualitative interviews with SLBs and managers of care providers, our study shows that in both countries, institutional contexts play a significant role in shaping street‐level bureaucracy practices. We found that SLBs and managers in Israel engage in entrepreneurial behavior, whereas their German counterparts adopt administrative practices. By identifying these tendencies as responses to the respective welfare market characteristics, the article makes an important contribution to the field of comparative SLB research and furthers our understanding of the broader implications of the marketization of welfare services.
Multilevel causal attributions on transboundary risk: Effects on attributions of responsibility, psychological distance, and policy support
Authors: Kim Hye Kyung , Kim Yungwook
Published: August 2022

This study used two randomized experiments in a prospective design (Study 1 N = 297, Study 2 N = 296) to examine how multilevel causal attribution dimensions (internal vs. external to an individual or a country) shape domestic and foreign policy support to counter transboundary risk. Results from Study 1 and 2 showed that external‐country (vs. internal‐country) causal attribution reduced perceptions of internal‐country attributions of responsibility, which had a cross‐lagged effect on support for domestic‐industry policies to mitigate the risk. In contrast, perceptions of external‐country attributions of responsibility increased support for foreign policies in a 2‐week follow up. This study offers theoretical insights into the demarcation of multilevel causal attribution dimensions in studying media framing effects. It also highlights some important causal mechanisms of how media frames shape public support for policies aimed at transboundary risk mitigation.
Inpatient teaching with a clinical review game
Authors: Ilagan‐Ying Ysabel C. , Windish Donna M. , Wijesekera Thilan P.
Published: August 2022

Background

Shortened preclinical curricula, social distancing policies and the fast‐paced nature of inpatient medicine make clinical education challenging. Crowdsourced learning and a review game derived from real‐time patient cases can offer an engaging solution for inpatient teaching.

Approach

We implemented a clinical review game with 67 participants (10 physician instructors, 40 residents and 17 medical students) rotating through the adult inpatient medicine service at an academic medical centre from July 2018 through July 2020. During 2‐week rotations, participants identified shareable teaching points about their patients on rounds. Teaching points were compiled by an instructor into a 30‐minute end‐of‐rotation review game formatted from a free gameshow‐based PowerPoint template. After the review game was completed, learners were then asked to complete end‐of‐rotation evaluations.

Evaluation

Learners were surveyed on their educational experience, and teaching point submissions were studied. After eight rotations, 39 participants (39/67 = 58.2% response rate) submitted a total of 268 teaching points, and nearly half of which were from learners (n = 131 [48.9%]). In the review game, 35 residents and 17 medical students participated and correctly answered 80% of questions. Learner evaluations highlighted the activity strengths including self‐directed learning, peer teaching from primary literature and a warm, collaborative educational environment.

Implications

Our crowdsourced clinical review game approach helped to highlight clinically relevant content for teaching rounds, build a collaborative culture across trainee levels and encourage self‐study for trainees to stay informed with current evidence‐based practice, even during pandemic restrictions.
Blunted hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction in apnoea divers
Authors: Kelly Tyler , Brown Courtney , Bryant‐Ekstrand Mohini , Lord Rachel , Dawkins Tony , Drane Aimee , Futral Joel E. , Barak Otto , Dragun Tanja , Stembridge Michael , Spajić Boris , Drviš Ivan , Duke Joseph W. , Ainslie Philip N. , Foster Glen E. , Dujic Zeljko , Lovering Andrew T.
Published: August 2022

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Does the hyperbaric, hypercapnic, acidotic, hypoxic stress of apnoea diving lead to greater pulmonary vasoreactivity and increased right heart work in apnoea divers?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Compared with sex‐ and age‐matched control subjects, divers experienced significantly less change in total pulmonary resistance in response to short‐duration isocapnic hypoxia. With oral sildenafil (50 mg), there were no differences in total pulmonary resistance between groups, suggesting that divers can maintain normal pulmonary artery tone in hypoxic conditions. Blunted hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction might be beneficial during apnoea diving.

Competitive apnoea divers dive repetitively to depths >50 m. During the final portions of ascent, divers experience significant hypoxaemia. Additionally, hyperbaria during diving increases thoracic blood volume while simultaneously reducing lung volume and increasing pulmonary artery pressure. We hypothesized that divers would have exaggerated hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction, leading to increased right heart work owing to their repetitive hypoxaemia and hyperbaria, and that the administration of sildenafil would have a greater effect in reducing pulmonary resistance in divers. We recruited 16 divers (Divers) and 16 age‐ and sex‐matched non‐diving control subjects (Controls). Using a double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over design, participants were evaluated for normal cardiac and lung function, then their cardiopulmonary responses to 20–30 min of isocapnic hypoxia (end‐tidal partial pressure of O2 = 50 mmHg) were measured 1 h after ingestion of 50 mg sildenafil or placebo. Cardiac structure and cardiopulmonary function were similar at baseline. With placebo, Divers had a significantly smaller increase in total pulmonary resistance than Controls after 20–30 min isocapnic hypoxia (change −3.85 ± 72.85 vs. 73.74 ± 91.06 dyns cm−5, P = 0.0222). With sildenafil, Divers and Controls had similar blunted increases in total pulmonary resistance after 20–30 min of hypoxia. Divers also had a significantly lower systemic vascular resistance after sildenafil in normoxia. These data indicate that repetitive apnoea diving leads to a blunted hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction. We suggest that this is a beneficial adaption allowing for increased cardiac output with reduced right heart work and thus reducing cardiac oxygen utilization in hypoxaemic conditions.
Toxicidad relacionada con el tratamiento para el cáncer en adultos mayores. Revisión de la literatura
Authors: Beracasa Caro Lorena , Pardo Barón Carlos Andrés , Sánchez Jesús Oswaldo
Published: August 2022

Las patologías de origen tumoral son más frecuentes en la población adulta mayor, no obstante dicha población tienen menos oportunidades de acceder a estudios diagnósticos e intervenciones terapéuticas, no solo debido a la edad y al estadio del cáncer, sino también porque posen condiciones propias del envejecimiento como la disminución de la reserva funcional, la pluripatología, alteraciones cognitivas o la falta de apoyo social que impactan sobre la respuesta clínica a las distintas terapias que existen para tratar el cáncer. Sumado a esto el riesgo de toxicidad que confieren los diversos tratamientos oncológicos, lo que conlleva a evaluar más detenidamente el tipo de terapia, la dosis y el beneficio de iniciarla.Teniendo en cuenta lo anterior se necesitan herramientas clínicas de apoyo para realizar una valoración objetiva y poder ofrecer la mejor opción de manejo personalizado. Dentro de la valoración geriátrica (VG) encontramos herramientas para evaluar rendimiento funcional, el estado cognitivo, el soporte social, lo cual aporta información valiosa e integral para la toma de decisiones no sólo terapéuticas, sin embargo teniendo en cuenta que no contamos con un método estandarizado de evaluación conjunta de oncología y geriatría en los servicios de consulta externa, ni el tiempo necesario para ejecutar una VG, es crucial contar con herramientas cortas que nos ayuden a predecir el riesgo de sufrir toxicidad durante el tratamiento antineoplásico . Dentro de las herramientas que existen, está la escala CARG la cual ha sido validada y es muy practica por lo que resulta ser una buena opción.