bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Social isolation and group size are associated with divergent gene expression in the brain of ant queens
Authors: Manfredini Fabio , Martinez‐Ruiz Carlos , Wurm Yannick , Shoemaker De Wayne , Brown Mark J. F. 
Published: June 2021

AbstractSocial life and isolation pose a complex suite of challenges to organisms prompting significant changes in neural state. However, plasticity in how brains respond to social challenges remains largely unexplored. The fire ants Solenopsis invicta provide an ideal scenario for examining this. Fire ant queens may found colonies individually or in groups of up to 30 queens, depending on key factors such as density of newly mated queens and availability of nesting sites. We artificially manipulated availability of nesting sites to test how the brain responds to social versus solitary colony founding at two key timepoints (early vs. late colony founding) and to group size (large vs. small groups). We adopted a powerful neurogenomic approach to identify even subtle differences of gene expression between treatment groups, and we built a global gene co‐expression network of the fire ant brain to identify gene modules specifically associated with the different components of the social environment. The difference between group and single founding queens involves only one gene when founding behavior is still plastic and queens can switch from one modality to another, while hundreds of genes are involved later in the process, when behaviors have lost the initial plasticity and are more canalized. Furthermore, we find that large groups are associated with greater changes in gene expression than small groups, showing that even potentially subtle differences in the social environment can be linked to different neurogenomic states.
Plasma levels do not predict thrombin generation in patients taking direct oral anticoagulants
Authors: Metze Michael , Klöter Tristan , Stöbe Stephan , Rechenberger Björn , Siegemund Roland , Siegemund Thomas , Laufs Ulrich , Petros Sirak , Pfrepper Christian 
Published: June 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe antithrombotic effect of direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) in specific clinical scenarios is difficult to assess.ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the effect of DOAC on thrombin generation (TG) in relation to their plasma level.MethodsEighty patients newly started on anticoagulation were included, 20 patients for each DOAC—apixaban, edoxaban, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran. Plasma was sampled before DOAC (baseline), at plasma peak time, 6 and 12 hours after starting DOAC for quantification of drug levels and TG.ResultsThe baseline TG before DOAC intake showed inter‐individual variability. All DOACs significantly prolonged lag time (LT) and time to peak (TTP), but did not change endogenous thrombin potential (ETP). Anti‐Xa inhibitors but not dabigatran reduced thrombin peak, but the effect of apixaban at plasma peak was less pronounced (factor 1.6). LT and TTP prolongation of dabigatran was lower compared to anti‐Xa inhibitors. All DOACs showed a nonlinear dose‐response relationship, with the greatest antithrombotic effect at lower DOAC plasma levels. The inhibition of TG parameters between baseline and peak was parallel between individual patients but the coefficient of variation of TG was lower compared to drug levels.ConclusionThe antithrombotic effect at DOAC peak plasma level measured by TG depends on the patient‐specific baseline TG level and the drug‐specific inhibition by the particular DOAC. Although peak plasma levels have a high variability, the variation of TG is lower compared to drug levels. Therefore, TG assays may be superior to plasma levels in the assessment of the intensity of anticoagulation.
The influence of history, geography and environment on patterns of diversification in the western terrestrial garter snake
Authors: Hallas Joshua M. , Parchman Thomas L. , Feldman Chris R. 
Published: June 2021

AbstractAimA central aim of biogeography is to understand how biodiversity is generated and maintained across landscapes. Here, we establish phylogenetic and population genetic patterns in a widespread reptile to quantify the influence of historical biogeography and current environmental variation on patterns of genetic diversity.LocationWestern North America.TaxonWestern terrestrial garter snake, Thamnophis elegans.MethodsWe used double‐digest RADseq to estimate phylogenetic relationships and characterize population genetic structure across the three widespread subspecies of T. elegans: T. e. vagrans (wandering garter snake), T. e. elegans (mountain garter snake) and T. e. terrestris (coast garter snake). We assessed patterns of dispersal and vicariance across biogeographic regions using ancestral area reconstruction (AAR) and deviations from isolation‐by‐distance across the landscape using estimated effective migration surfaces (EEMS). We identified environmental variables potentially shaping local adaptation in regional lineages using genetic‐environment association (GEA) analyses.ResultsWe recovered three well‐differentiated genetic groups that correspond to the three subspecies. AAR analyses inferred the eastern Cascade Range as the ancestral area, with dispersal to both the east and west across western North America. Populations of T. e. elegans displayed a latitudinal gradient in genetic variation across the Sierra Nevada and northern California, while populations of T. e. terrestris show discrete genetic breaks consistent with well‐known biogeographic barriers. Lastly, GEA analyses identified allele frequency shifts at loci associated with a common set of environmental variables in both T. e. elegans and T. e. terrestris.Main ConclusionT. elegans is composed of distinct evolutionary lineages, each with its own geographic range and history of diversification. T. e. elegans and T. e. terrestris show unique patterns of diversification as populations dispersed from east to west and while adapting to the new environments they colonized. Historical events, landscape features and environmental variation have all contributed to patterns of differentiation in T. elegans.
Bone‐level changes around implants with 1‐ or 3‐mm‐high abutments and their relation to crestal mucosal thickness: A 1‐year randomized clinical trial
Authors: Muñoz Marta , Busoms Emma , Vilarrasa Javi , Albertini Matteo , Ruíz‐Magaz Vanessa , Nart José 
Published: June 2021

AbstractAimTo evaluate 1‐year bone‐level changes around subcrestal platform‐switching implants with 1 or 3 mm definitive abutments. The influence of mucosal thickness on bone‐level alterations was further analysed.Materials and methodsImplants were placed in the posterior sextants and positioned 1.5 mm subcrestally with an abutment of 1 or 3 mm height. Final restorations were delivered after 16 weeks. Radiographic measurements of inter‐proximal bone level were the primary outcome and were adjusted by vertical mucosal thickness. Peri‐implant clinical conditions and resonance frequency analysis were also compared.ResultsA total of 65 subjects with 99 implants were analysed. The overall 1‐year implant survival rate between the 1‐ and 3‐mm groups was 96.4% and 94.4%, respectively. Statistically significant lower inter‐proximal marginal bone‐level changes were observed in the 3‐mm group (1 mm: −0.17 ± 0.02 mm at mesial and −0.21 ± 0.02 mm distal; 3 mm: −0.03 ± 0.02 mm at mesial and −0.03 ± 0.02 mm and distal; mesial: p = .001; distal: p < .001). Initial vertical mucosal thickness was not correlated with inter‐proximal marginal bone loss.ConclusionsSubcrestal implants with 3‐mm abutment were associated with minimal inter‐proximal bone loss. Independent of the abutment height, crestal mucosal thickness was not correlated with bone loss.
Prevalence of periodontitis based on the 2017 classification in a Norwegian population: The HUNT study
Authors: Stødle Ida Haukåen , Verket Anders , Høvik Hedda , Sen Abhijit , Koldsland Odd Carsten 
Published: June 2021

AbstractAimThis cross‐sectional study assesses the prevalence of periodontitis in a large Norwegian population, based on the 2017 World Workshop on the Classification of Periodontal and Peri‐implant Diseases and Conditions. The prevalence of periodontitis was determined by bone loss recorded on radiographs (orthopantomogram [OPG] and bitewing [BW]) and by clinical examination.Materials and methodsAs part of a large population health study (The HUNT Study), 7347 participants aged 19 years and older were invited to the HUNT4 Oral Health Study. Radiographic bone loss (RBL) and periodontal stage and grade were assessed in 4863 participants.ResultsPeriodontal examination was performed in 4863 participants. RBL and clinical registrations corresponding to periodontitis as defined were observed in 72.4%. The prevalence of periodontitis increased after 40 years of age, with severe forms occurring primarily after 60 years of age. Stage I was observed in 13.8%, Stage II in 41.1%, Stage III in 15.3%, and Stage IV in 2.3% of the population. Grade A, B, and C was observed in 5.7%, 60.2%, and 6.2%, respectively.ConclusionPeriodontitis was frequently observed in the investigated population. The prevalence of periodontitis Stage III and Stage IV combined was observed in 17.6% of the study population.
Anadromous red‐spotted masu salmon (Oncorhynchus masouishikawae), a southernmost sea‐migration form of salmonid, displays low variation in both age at seaward migration and sea age
Authors: Noda Shohei , Ueda Rui , Tanaka Tatsuya , Shirai Kotaro , Kishi Daisuke , Sato Takuya 
Published: June 2021

ABSTRACTWe examined variations in age at seaward migration and sea age for the anadromous form of red‐spotted masu salmon (Oncorhynchus masou ishikawae) in two Japanese rivers. The anadromous form of red‐spotted masu salmon expressed only two sea migration patterns in the two rivers: (a) the majority of the salmon (95%,n = 81) were of age‐0, and age‐1 migrants were rare (n = 4); and (b) all the salmon examined (n = 22) made a return migration within a year, with 23% of the salmon exhibiting potamodromy in the river. Owing to low variation in their sea migratory patterns, the anadromous form of red‐spotted masu salmon is likely vulnerable to environmental fluctuations.
Effectiveness of a reablement training program for homecare staff on older adults' sedentary behavior: A cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rooijackers Teuni H. , Kempen Gertrudis I. J. M. , Zijlstra G. A. Rixt , van Rossum Erik , Koster Annemarie , Lima Passos Valéria , Metzelthin Silke F. 
Published: June 2021

AbstractBackground/ObjectivesHomecare staff often take over activities instead of “doing activities with” clients, thereby hampering clients from remaining active in daily life. Training and supporting staff to integrate reablement into their working practices may reduce clients' sedentary behavior and improve their independence. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the “Stay Active at Home” (SAaH) reablement training program for homecare staff on older homecare clients' sedentary behavior.DesignCluster randomized controlled trial (c‐RCT).SettingDutch homecare (10 nursing teams comprising a total of 313 staff members).Participants264 clients (aged ≥65 years).InterventionSAaH seeks to equip staff with knowledge, attitude, and skills on reablement, and to provide social and organizational support to implement reablement in homecare practice. SAaH consists of program meetings, practical assignments, and weekly newsletters over a 9‐month period. The control group received no additional training and delivered care as usual.MeasurementsSedentary behavior (primary outcome) was measured using tri‐axial wrist‐worn accelerometers. Secondary outcomes included daily functioning (GARS), physical functioning (SPPB), psychological functioning (PHQ‐9), and falls. Data were collected at baseline and at 12 months; data on falls were also collected at 6 months. Intention‐to‐treat analyses using mixed‐effects linear and logistic regression were performed.ResultsWe found no statistically significant differences between the study groups for sedentary time expressed as daily minutes (adjusted mean difference: β 18.5 (95% confidence interval [CI] −22.4, 59.3), p = 0.374) and as proportion of wake/wear time (β 0.6 [95% CI −1.5, 2.6], p = 0.589) or for most secondary outcomes.ConclusionOur c‐RCT showed no evidence for the effectiveness of SAaH for all client outcomes. Refining SAaH, by adding components that intervene directly on homecare clients, may optimize the program and require further research. Additional research should explore the effectiveness of SAaH on behavioral determinants of clients and staff and cost‐effectiveness.
Soybean production in Paraguay: Agribusiness, economic change and agrarian transformations
Authors: Wesz Junior Valdemar João 
Published: June 2021

AbstractContemporary corporate‐led agricultural commodity production has seen profound transformations in rural spaces. This article focuses on soybean production in Paraguay, analysing corporate activity in the productive, commercial and economic dynamics of the soybean market and identifies the impacts of this monoculture on small farmers. Drawing on mixed methods, the research points to high levels of concentration of this market in the hands of a few transnational companies, which control the value chain via contractual relations with farmers. Through a complex set of relations, soybean production has seen smallholder farmers fall into debt and become unable to maintain their activity and migrate to new regions, leasing their land and, in the worst cases, lose both their land and status as farmers.
Development of self‐pollinating breeding line with closed‐flowering traits in buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum)
Authors: Suzuki Tatsuro , Sekiguchi Yurie , Hara Takahiro , Katsu Kenjiro , Matsuura Asana 
Published: June 2021

AbstractBuckwheat has open‐flower morphology; therefore, isolation is necessary to propagate even in self‐pollinating lines. Here, we developed a self‐pollinating closed flower breeding line ‘CFK1’ by crossing between closed‐flowering individual and self‐pollinating breeding line. Progeny analysis suggested that the closed‐flowering trait would be dominated by double recessive gene, which we named closed‐flowering A and B (cfA and cfB). The evaluation test of outcrossing rate in the field revealed that ‘CFK1’ had 0% in progeny. An a histochemical investigation of flower buds morphology using scanning electron microscope revealed that the petals of ‘CFK1’ were tightly adhered to other petals whereas completely separated in wild type. The agronomic characteristics were evaluated by performance test. Compared to leading variety ‘Shinanonatsusoba’, the ‘CFK1’ had lower plant height, total weight, grain yield and 1‐L weight whereas higher plant height, total weight, grain yield and 1‐L weight when compared to ‘IH3’. The preharvest‐sprouting resistance of ‘CFK1’ is slightly stronger than that of other tested buckwheat. From these results, ‘CFK1’ is promising self‐pollinating breeding line that is resistant for outcrossing.
Bacterial leaf streak 1 encoding a mitogen‐activated protein kinase confers resistance to bacterial leaf streak in rice
Authors: Ma Zengfeng , Qin Gang , Zhang Yuexiong , Liu Chi , Wei Minyi , Cen Zhenlu , Yan Yong , Luo Tongping , Li Zhenjing , Liang Haifu , Huang Dahui , Deng Guofu 
Published: June 2021

SummaryBacterial leaf streak (BLS) is a major bacterial disease of rice. Utilization of host genetic resistance has become one of the most important strategies for controlling BLS. However, only a few resistance genes have been characterized. Previously, a recessive BLS resistance gene bls1 was roughly mapped on chromosome 6. Here, we further delineated bls1 to a 21 kb region spanning four genes. Genetic analysis confirmed that the gene encoding a mitogen‐activated protein kinase (OsMAPK6) is the target of the allelic genes BLS1 and bls1. Overexpression of BLS1 weakened resistance to the specific Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola (Xoc) strain JZ‐8, while low expression of bls1 increased resistance. However, both overexpression of BLS1 and low expression of bls1 could increase no‐race‐specific broad‐spectrum resistance. These results indicate that BLS1 and bls1 negatively regulate race‐specific resistance to Xoc strain JZ‐8 but positively and negatively control broad‐spectrum resistance, respectively. Subcellular localization demonstrated that OsMAPK6 was localized in the nucleus. RGA4, which is known to mediate resistance to Xoc, is the potential target of OsMAPK6. Overexpression of BLS1 and low expression of bls1 showed increase in salicylic acid and induced expression of defense‐related genes, simultaneously increasing broad‐spectrum resistance. Moreover, low expression of bls1 showed increase an in jasmonic acid and abscisic acid, in company with an increase in resistance to Xoc strain JZ‐8. Collectively, our study provides new insights into the understanding of BLS resistance and facilitates the development of rice host‐resistant cultivars.
Reflecting on Geography higher education in Sri Lanka: Unpacking/releasing the hegemonic burden…
Authors: Hennayake Nalani 
Published: June 2021

AbstractThis commentary explores the nature and the challenges in Geography Higher Education in Sri Lanka. It discusses how geographical thinking is undermined through sub‐disciplinary fragmentation and the hegemonic grip of Anglophone Geography, which allows less space for Sri Lanka’s own Geography. It urges for the need to unpack and release the hegemonic burden, paving way towards a “decolonial praxis” aimed at a Sri Lankanised Geography.
OCS Rehabilitation and Kevlar Contact Wire Fall Prevention VTA San Jose, CA
Authors: White Paul F. , Kola Gerti , Siddiq Ash , Ng Alan 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) required their original overhead contact system (OCS) along North 1st Street between interstate highway I-880 and West San Carlos Street at the Guadalupe River (opened in 1987) to be rehabilitated. HNTB was chosen to assist with the project and the first task included an overall inspection of the line to ascertain condition, operational deficiencies, and safety concerns. From this inspection, VTA prepared a scope of work for HNTB to perform and then prepare design documents for contractor bidding. During the inspection process, VTA further requested an evaluation of pole deflection in their Guadalupe Yard. Of interest is the line from Younger Street to the Guadalupe River at West San Carlos Street being joint pantograph and trolley pole compatible as VTA operates heritage streetcars during their Christmas holiday season.
The inspection of the OCS revealed deficiencies and safety concerns due to the age and type of equipment in use, most of it being original. Trolley frogs, crossover pans, and section insulators had field constructed gliders that were non-standard or inconsistent between assemblies. Trolley wires were suspended by clamps with no insulation requiring span wire insulators which made the span wire between the insulators alive at 750 volts. An open faced disconnect switch was too close to an apartment balcony with the possibility of the live parts being touched by people on the balcony, and some OCS poles were too short to raise span wires for adjustment. During inspection, a trolley wire broke at a trolley frog anchor tip and fell to the street at the pedestrian mall in downtown San Jose. VTA systems engineering had the idea of supporting the single contact wire supported and clamped to a Kevlar messenger wire. This support system in theory was proven to prevent the broken contact wire to hang 3.047m [10 feet] above ground, a CPUC G.O. 95 requirement. Similar Kevlar restraining supports were used by VTA to prevent the contact and messenger wires from falling down as a result of in-span insulator failure. VTA directed HNTB to use VTA’s idea to design a system of wire constraint using Kevlar synthetic rope to prevent wires from falling.
This paper describes the deficiencies and safety concerns discovered during inspection and how they were eliminated through creative OCS design. It further describes the process of inspection, direction, design, and operation of the rehabilitation project and how the use of Kevlar synthetic rope was used to keep trolley wire from falling during wire breaks both in theory and actuality. It also describes the issues encountered during construction, stagger issues from joint operation, pole extension implementation, and general improvements made to the OCS.
Intermediate Distance Testing of Optical Top-of-Rail (TOR) Lubricity Sensors on a Remote-Controlled Rail Cart
Authors: Mast Timothy , Pan Yu , Holton Carvel , Ahmadian Mehdi 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
The primary intent of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and utility of a laser-based measurement unit for qualitative assessment of the presence and amount of Top-of-Rail Friction Modifier (TOR or TORFM), at reasonably high speeds and over long distances in the field. As a capstone to this phase of development, a series of field tests were conducted on revenue service track in partnership with a local Class 1 railroad. For these tests, the Third Generation Rail Lubricity Sensor was mounted on a Remote-Controlled Rail Cart and tested continuously over several miles of track. This longer window is able to cover the domain of multiple wayside applicators over a distance of more than 3 miles, the expected carry distance of TORFM.
The results of this testing demonstrate the capacity of optical sensors to measure and evaluate track lubricity. The signal characteristics at or near wayside applicators demonstrate a clear impulse from the heavy lubricant close to the applicator. Further, by collecting continuous data down track from a wayside applicator it is possible to observe several novel ways in which the TORFM and flange grease carries beyond the point of application. One such example is a clear spike in track lubricity when entering or exiting curves caused by the lateral shift of the wheelsets drawing fresh lubricant previously out of contact with the rail into contact creating a “phantom applicator” effect. These observations are crucial to understanding in detail the way the TORFM and flange grease is carried down track. They are also essential to creating predictive models for most effective application of friction modifiers to specific track geometries.
A Systems Approach for the Evaluation and Rebuilding of the Rogers Pass Systems on Canadian Pacific
Authors: Thurston David F. 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
In the 1980’s, Canadian Pacific (CP) constructed one of the most ambitious projects since the original completion of the railway in 1885. The Rogers Pass project was initiated at CP in the early 1980’s to allow for increased capacity and efficiency by installing a second main track within the Rogers Pass area. Completed in 1988, the Rogers Pass Project included the construction of a new line with significantly lower westbound grades and two tunnels with a combined length of over ten miles. Several other systems were required to complete the project that will be discussed I this paper. Recently, CP has started a new Multi-Year Plan to rebuild virtually all of the tunnel systems infrastructure that will not only prolong the life of these systems, but will introduce technology not known at the time of construction. These new systems will enable CP to greatly reduce maintenance cost while improving reliability. These systems include a high voltage transmission line that feed the ventilation house, a sophisticated ventilation system that allows fresh combustion air to reach the locomotives working the uphill grades, as well as process controllers that automate all of these systems. As all of the systems are reaching the end of their useful life, CP’s rebuilding will also increase overall system capacity.