bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of roadside burning on genetic diversity in a high‐biomass invasive grass
Authors: Di Binyin , Firn Jennifer , Buckley Yvonne M. , Lomas Kate , Pausas Juli G. , Smith Annabel L. 
Published: March 2022

AbstractThe invasive grass–fire cycle is a widely documented feedback phenomenon in which invasive grasses increase vegetation flammability and fire frequency, resulting in further invasion and compounded effects on fire regimes. Few studies have examined the role of short‐term adaptation in driving the invasive grass–fire cycle, despite invasive species often thriving after introduction to new environments. We used a replicated (nine locations), paired sampling design (burn vs unburnt sites) to test the hypothesis that roadside burning increases genetic diversity and thus adaptive potential in the invasive, high‐biomass grass Cenchrus ciliaris. Between four and five samples per site (n = 93) were genotyped using the DArTseq platform, and we filtered the data to produce panels of 15,965 neutral and 5030 non‐neutral single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. Using fastSTRUCTURE, we detected three distinct genetic clusters with extremely high FST values among them (0.94–0.97) suggesting three different cultivars. We found high rates of asexual reproduction, possibly related to clonality or apomixis common in this species. At three locations, burnt and unburnt sites were genetically different, but genetic structure was not consistently related to fire management across the study region. Burning was associated with high genetic diversity and sexual reproduction in one genetic cluster, but with low genetic diversity and clonality in another. Individual SNPs were associated with longitude and genetic clustering, but not with recent fire management. Overall, we found limited evidence that roadside burning consistently increased genetic diversity and adaptive potential in C. ciliaris; evolutionary and breeding history more strongly shaped genetic structure. Roadside burning could therefore continue to be used for managing biomass in this species, with continued monitoring. Our study provides a framework for detecting fire‐related changes on a genetic level–a process that could be used as an early warning system to detect the invasive grass–fire cycle in future.
Adaptive divergence and underlying mechanisms in response to salinity gradients between two Crassostrea oysters revealed by phenotypic and transcriptomic analyses
Authors: Zhang Ziyan , Li Ao , She Zhicai , Wang Xuegang , Jia Zhen , Wang Wei , Zhang Guofan , Li Li 
Published: March 2022

AbstractComparing the responses of closely related species to environmental changes is an efficient method to explore adaptive divergence, for a better understanding of the adaptive evolution of marine species under rapidly changing climates. Oysters are keystone species thrive in intertidal and estuarine areas where frequent environmental disturbance occurs including fluctuant salinity. The evolutionary divergence of two sister species of sympatric estuarine oysters, Crassostrea hongkongensis and Crassostrea ariakensis, in response to euryhaline habitats on phenotypes and gene expression, and the relative contribution of species effect, environment effect, and their interaction to the divergence were explored. After a 2‐month outplanting at high‐ and low‐salinity locations in the same estuary, the high growth rate, percent survival, and high tolerance indicated by physiological parameters suggested that the fitness of C. ariakensis was higher under high‐salinity conditions and that of C. hongkongensis was higher under low‐salinity conditions. Moreover, a transcriptomic analysis showed the two species exhibited differentiated transcriptional expression in high‐ and low‐salinity habitats, largely caused by the species effect. Several of the important pathways enriched in divergent genes between species were also salinity‐responsive pathways. Specifically, the pyruvate and taurine metabolism pathway and several solute carriers may contribute to the hyperosmotic adaptation of C. ariakensis, and some solute carriers may contribute to the hypoosmotic adaptation of C. hongkongensis. Our findings provide insights into the phenotypic and molecular mechanisms underlying salinity adaptation in marine mollusks, which will facilitate the assessment of the adaptive capacity of marine species in the context of climate change and will also provide practical information for marine resource conservation and aquaculture.
The wind‐driven distribution of nearshore zooplankton in a stratified lake varies with their body size
Authors: Cyr Hélène , Sprules William Gary 
Published: March 2022

Abstract

Wind‐driven forces are expected to concentrate zooplankton along downwind shores in lakes and provide food subsidy to nearshore food webs, but the bathymetric complexity of nearshore areas could result in high spatial variability. Here we test: (1) whether zooplankton accumulate downwind on windy days, and whether the magnitude of accumulation varies with zooplankton body size and with nearshore bathymetric slope; and (2) whether nearshore zooplankton are more spatially variable than offshore zooplankton, and whether their spatial variability is related to wind conditions and to zooplankton body size. This study focuses on zooplankton distribution at the whole‐lake basin and at intermediate (10 m–1 km) spatial scales.

Zooplankton were sampled repeatedly along four c. 1 km transects at each of the upwind and downwind ends of a 22.1‐km2 stratified lake basin. Two transects were oriented perpendicular to shore and two were parallel, one close to shore and the other further offshore. Zooplankton were sampled along each transect using an optical plankton counter morning and afternoon over 3 consecutive days, under a range of wind conditions, during early stratification (early June), mid‐stratification (mid‐July) and late stratification (late September). A 3D‐hydrodynamic model was used to help interpret the results.

Small‐bodied zooplankton accumulated downwind during windy periods, reaching 8%–34% higher biomass than the basin‐wide average. This downwind accumulation of biomass was best explained by a partial (metalimnetic) upwelling displacing the epilimnion to the downwind end of the lake basin. Active upward movement of zooplankton is required to explain near‐surface biomass accumulation in this displaced water mass.

Large‐bodied zooplankton accumulated in nearshore areas, regardless of wind conditions. Higher nearshore accumulation of large zooplankton was observed along transects following a shallow (1.9%) bathymetric slope but not along a steep (6%) slope.

Large‐bodied zooplankton are more patchily distributed than small‐bodied zooplankton, both nearshore and offshore. The spatial variability of large zooplankton declined with increasing wind speed, but only at upwind sites. The patchy distribution of large‐bodied zooplankton is driven, or at least strongly influenced, by biological processes.

The spatial distribution and patchiness of zooplankton varies with wind speed, zooplankton body size and nearshore bathymetry. Planktonic organisms are not passive drifters, and their patchiness and influx to certain parts of the lake during windy periods are both expected to affect the efficiency of trophic transfers in lake food webs.
Revisiting economic geography and foreign direct investment in less developed regions
Authors: Pavlínek Petr 
Published: March 2022

AbstractThis article focuses on the long‐term effects of foreign direct investment (FDI) in less developed regions (LDRs). It identifies different types and mechanisms of FDI in more developed regions (MDRs) and LDRs, which lead to different regional development outcomes. It critically evaluates the most important approaches to FDI in LDRs developed in economic geography, namely the branch plant economy and truncation, new regionalism, new international division of labor and spatial divisions of labor, and global production networks. In the long run, FDI tends to benefit MDRs more than LDRs. The article calls on economic geographers to continue the research on FDI in the context of uneven development.
Antioxidative and antimicrobial properties of pulse proteins and their applications in gluten‐free foods and sports nutrition
Authors: Shevkani Khetan , Singh Narpinder , Patil Chidanand , Awasthi Ankit , Paul Maman 
Published: March 2022

SummaryPulses are inexpensive and eco‐friendly source of biologically active proteins/peptides exhibiting antioxidative and antimicrobial properties. The antimicrobial activity of pulse proteins/peptides is ascribed to their ability to interact with components of bacterial/fungal cells or viral‐envelope, while antioxidative effects are the result of absorption/scavenging of free radicals and reactive oxygen species, which depend on amino acid composition/sequence, hydrophobicity and molecular mass and vary with multiple factors, including, protein source, hydrolysing enzyme and conditions employed for hydrolysis. Pulse proteins also are useful for quality improvement of gluten‐free (GF) foods to fulfil the increasing demand not only of safe and nutritious but also of acceptable products for people with gluten‐related disorders. They contribute technological and sensory quality to GF baked products through providing lysine and improving hydration, viscoelasticity and gas retention, though the production of GF products with quality comparative to wheat‐based baked products is challenging. The inclusion of pulse proteins in pastas and noodles reduces their glycaemic index and improves textural and cooking properties. Also, pulse proteins were found to be comparable with animal proteins in enhancing exercise capacity and athletic performance; hence, these may be considered suitable in developing health‐promoting plant‐based athletic foods.
Using a hybrid data collection tool: Analysis of youth labour market trajectories integrating quantitative, qualitative and social network data
Authors: Verd Joan M. 
Published: March 2022

AbstractThis article explains the factors that led to the use of a hybrid data collection tool—i.e., a single questionnaire designed to collect both quantitative and qualitative data—in two different research projects that focused on the relation between the labour market trajectories of young people and the use and accumulation of network social capital in these trajectories. The article describes the characteristics of this tool and the methodological challenges posed by its use. The advantages and disadvantages of this specific type of data collection are also addressed. Among the main advantages, the improvement of data quality and the overarching picture obtained of the career path and use of personal networks are highlighted. The most important downside found is the amount of time needed in the interview, which shows the need to pay attention to the balance between quantitative and qualitative elements in the structure of the questionnaire.
Current application of mesotherapy in pattern hair loss: A systematic review
Authors: Tang Ziyuan , Hu Yiming , Wang Jin , Fan Zhexiang , Qu Qian , Miao Yong 
Published: March 2022

AbstractBackground and ObjectiveAs a minimally invasive procedure, mesotherapy has been used in the cosmetic field for half a century and gets favorable results in fat reduction, facial rejuvenation, and hair regrowth. So far, it has achieved some exciting progression in pattern hair loss (PHL), which bothers plenty of people and has cost billion dollars searching for more effective treatment. The aim of this study is to summarize the efficacy of mesotherapy treating PHL.MethodsCochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched until January 2021. All literature was evaluated according to established criteria.ResultsWe got 336 studies from searched databases, and 12 studies were included after selection process. A total of 253 males and 274 females participated in 6 randomized control trials, 2 nonrandomized controlled trials, and 3 observational studies. Mesotherapy showed positive efficacy in all studies to a certain extent, and no significant side effect occurred.ConclusionMesotherapy demonstrated as an effective treatment for PHL. However, the sample size is not big enough, and studies about mesotherapy compared to other treatments are insufficient. Future research is required to claim more evidence.
Commitment, perception and evidence‐based practice training in Spanish nursing students: A multicentre cross‐sectional study
Authors: Gómez‐Salgado Juan , Rodríguez‐Almagro Julián , Molina‐Alarcón Milagros , Martínez‐Galiano Juan Miguel , Solano‐Ruiz María del Carmen , Hernández Martínez Antonio 
Published: March 2022

AbstractAims and objectivesTo evaluate the commitment and level of self‐perceived training in evidence‐based practice among students of the Nursing degree of five Spanish universities.BackgroundIn university Health Sciences degrees, evidence‐based clinical practice can directly or indirectly impact the quality of care, the cost of the service provided and the safety of clinical practice.DesignMulticentre cross‐sectional observational study according to STROBE guidelines.MethodsThe evidence‐based skills in Practice questionnaire (CACH‐PBE, for its acronym in Spanish) and the Utrecht Work Engagement Student Scale (UWES‐9S) were used. The study was performed in five Spanish universities (Alicante, Castilla La Mancha, Jaen, Huelva and Seville) from October to December 2020, with 755 participants (Nursing students).ResultsA total mean score of 91.9 points (SD = 11.81) was observed for the CACH‐PBE questionnaire and of 36.8 points (SD = 8.48 points) for the UWES‐9S. In addition, the multivariate analysis predicted that variables such as sex, academia, university, intention to do a Master or Doctorate degree, the level of work engagement, and the previous training in evidence‐based clinical practice were associated with a greater perception of evidence‐based practice.ConclusionThe sample of Nursing degree students has intermediate‐high levels of knowledge, skills and attitudes regarding evidence‐based practice and work commitment, with differences observed between each of the universities.Relevance to clinical practiceNursing students should develop from intermediate to high levels of knowledge, skills and attitudes regarding evidence‐based practice and work commitment. There are various actions to promote EBP, such as the incorporation of a specific course covering the subject into the nursing curriculum, and the selection, for clinical practices, of care units that implemented evidence‐based care.
Assessing the frequency with which primary care providers address sleep of infants and young children
Authors: Mosher Wayne Andrew , Piccinini‐Vallis Helena 
Published: March 2022

SummarySleep problems during early development are common and associated with negative health outcomes. Earlier recognition of poor sleep health permits earlier intervention and improved outcomes. This retrospective cohort study aimed to identify the frequency with which primary care providers assessed sleep health when completing the Rourke Baby Record for infants and young children during routine well‐baby visits from 2002 to 2019. Using 1180 electronic medical records from an academic family medicine teaching clinic, we identified the frequency with which primary care providers assessed sleep health at three time intervals in child development: 1 week to 1 month; 2 months to 6 months; and 9 months to 12–13 months. Sleep variables were night waking, healthy sleep habits, and safe sleep. The frequency of having any aspect of sleep addressed was 85.4%, 90.2% and 66.7% at the three respective time intervals. There were no differences in the frequency with which sleep was assessed based on birthweight or sex. Children born during 2002–2015 were approximately half as likely to be assessed for sleep compared with those born during 2016–2019 at the second and third time intervals. In the first and second time intervals, children who were not exclusively breastfed had their sleep assessed significantly less than children who were exclusively breastfed. To our knowledge this is the first study to explore the area of sleep discussions and breastfeeding status in primary care during routine well‐baby visits. These results are clinically relevant for clinicians and parents, due to the known associations between sleep issues and sudden infant death syndrome, childhood injuries, and emotional dysregulation.
Rice congee as an alternative to thickened liquids for patients with swallowing disorders
Authors: Ng Manwa Lawrence , Lui Hoi Ying 
Published: March 2022

AbstractSeeing the popularity of rice congee consumption among Asian families, the present study examined the possibility of preparing thickened liquids from rice congee of different consistency levels that are commonly prescribed for individuals with swallowing disorders. The two most common rice varieties in Hong Kong, indica and japonica rice grains, were used to prepare rice congee from which thickened liquids were extracted. By varying the water‐to‐rice ratio, cooking time, optional reheating on a frying pan, and temperature, slightly thick, mildly thick, moderately thick, and extremely thick liquids were obtained. Recipes for extracting thickened liquids of different consistencies from rice congee cooked with indica and japonica rice grains were established. The consistency levels were defined with reference to although not strictly following the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative framework. Results revealed that the consistency of the product varied with water‐to‐rice ratio, cooking time, and temperature. Recipes were established for preparing thickened liquids using rice grains at both serving and room temperatures. Findings support that thickened liquids so obtained can be used as an alternative to thickened liquids preparing using commercial thickeners.
Role of traditional knowledge in the COVID‐19 battle
Authors: Ola Kunle 
Published: March 2022

AbstractThis article addresses the role of traditional medicine in the corona virus (COVID‐19) battle. It situates traditional medicine within the traditional knowledge and Intellectual Property discussion. The paper discusses the increased gravitation towards using traditional medicine but also identifies the existence of scepticism towards its use. Indigenous communities make up a large portion of the traditional medicine community and are therefore called upon to play their role in the fight against COVID‐19. The battle is real, the coronavirus ground is an intersecting one with multiple, plausible solutions. Traditional medicine has a role in this battle and this article advocates for collaboration. It is a clarion call for all stakeholders to join hands to fight the virus. It advocates inclusion rather than exclusion.
A phenomenological exploration of the impact of COVID‐19 on the medical education community
Authors: Luong Victoria , Burm Sarah , Bogie Bryce J. M. , Cowley Lindsay , Klasen Jennifer M. , MacLeod Anna , LaDonna Kori A. 
Published: March 2022

AbstractIntroductionThe COVID‐19 pandemic has caused unprecedented stress to the medical education community, potentially worsening problems like burnout and work‐life imbalance that its members have long been grappling with. However, the collective struggle sparked by the pandemic could generate the critical reflection necessary for transforming professional values and practices for the better. In this hermeneutic phenomenological study, we explore how the community is adapting—and even reconceptualising—their personal and professional roles amidst the COVID‐19 crisis.MethodBetween April and October 2020, we conducted 27 (17F, 10M) semi‐structured interviews with medical trainees (8), physicians (8), graduate students (3) and PhD scientists (8) working in medical education in Canada, the United States and Switzerland. Data analysis involved a variety of strategies, including coding for van Manen's four lifeworld existentials, reflexive writing and multiple team meetings.ResultsParticipants experienced grief related to the loss of long‐established personal and professional structures and boundaries, relationships and plans for the future. However, experiences of grief were often conflicting. Some participants also experienced moments of relief, perceiving some losses as metaphorical permissions slips to slow down and focus on their well‐being. In turn, many reflected on the opportunity they were being offered to re‐imagine the nature of their work.DiscussionParticipants' experiences with grief, relief and opportunity resonate with Ratcliffe's account of grief as a process of relearning the world after a significant loss. The dismantling of prior life structures and possibilities incited in participants critical reflection on the nature of the medical education community's professional practices. Participants demonstrated their desire for more flexibility and autonomy in the workplace and a re‐adjustment of the values and expectations inherent to their profession. On both individual and systems levels, the community must ensure that long‐standing calls for wellness and work‐life integration are realised—and persist—after the pandemic is over.
China's Approach to the Iran‐Saudi Arabia Rivalry
Authors: Malla Mohmad Waseem 
Published: March 2022

AbstractThis article critically examines the configurations of China's approach to the Middle East, in general, and the Iran‐Saudi Arabia axis, in particular. China's traditional practice has been to secure its national interests in economic terms while maintaining a critical distance from the domestic affairs of its partner countries. But lately, with changing geopolitical dynamics in the region, the scope of Beijing's engagement with these states has transformed as well. Though the basic contours of the rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia are geopolitical in nature, it is chiefly driven by sectarian and other identity markers, with the potential of dragging other countries to their respective sides. The article argues that, as China multiplies its regional engagements to ensure energy security for its rapidly expanding economy and international profile, the ever‐changing geopolitical realities will likely make Beijing's political role inevitable and therefore preclude a balanced approach toward Iran and Saudi Arabia.
NUCLEOCYTOPLASMIC shuttling of ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTOR 5 mediated by nitric oxide suppresses ethylene biosynthesis in apple fruit
Authors: Ji Yinglin , Xu Mingyang , Liu Zhi , Yuan Hui , Lv Tianxing , Li Hongjian , Xu Yaxiu , Si Yajing , Wang Aide 
Published: March 2022

Summary

Nitric oxide (NO) is known to modulate the action of several phytohormones. This includes the gaseous hormone ethylene, but the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of NO on ethylene biosynthesis are unclear.

Here, we observed a decrease in endogenous NO abundance during apple (Malus domestica) fruit development and exogenous treatment of apple fruit with a NO donor suppressed ethylene production, suggesting that NO is a ripening suppressor.

Expression of the transcription factor MdERF5 was activated by NO donor treatment. NO induced the nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of MdERF5 by modulating its interaction with the protein phosphatase, MdPP2C57. MdPP2C57‐induced dephosphorylation of MdERF5 at Ser260 is sufficient to promote nuclear export of MdERF5. As a consequence of this export, MdERF5 proteins in the cytoplasm interacted with and suppressed the activity of MdACO1, an enzyme that converts 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid (ACC) to ethylene. The NO‐activated MdERF5 was observed to increase in abundance in the nucleus and bind to the promoter of the ACC synthase gene MdACS1 and directly suppress its transcription.

Together, these results suggest that NO‐activated nucleocytoplasmic MdERF5 suppresses the action of ethylene biosynthetic genes, thereby suppressing ethylene biosynthesis and limiting fruit ripening.