bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Forest biomass turnover time estimation in China based on spatially explicit root : shoot ratios
Authors: Guo Yanrong , Chen Liang , Luo Yubo , Liu Yang 
Published: April 2022

AbstractAimSpatial patterns of root : shoot ratios (R:S) are critical to better estimate biomass turnover time (τ). Given the difficulty of measuring belowground biomass directly, we still lack an understanding of high‐resolution spatial patterns of R:S in China's forests. Here, we explored patterns of R:S and their association with stand age, tree height, elevation, land cover, and climatic and edaphic variables, and estimated τ for China's forests.LocationChina.Time period2004 and 2010.Major taxa studiedForests.MethodsWe used a machine learning algorithm trained with an R:S dataset of 1,907 observations covering five forest types to upscale the spatial distribution of R:S in China as a function of stand age, tree height, elevation, land cover, and climatic and edaphic variables. We calculated τ using the estimated R:S together with satellite‐based aboveground biomass and net primary productivity data at 1 km × 1 km resolution.ResultsThe estimated mean τ for total biomass in China's forests was years. The longest τ (τ > 20 years) was observed in central China, whereas southern China exhibited the shortest τ (τ < 10 years). Large differences in partial correlations between τ and climatic variables (mean annual precipitation, climatological water deficit, and mean annual temperature) were observed among forest types.Main conclusionsOur data‐driven gridded maps of estimated R:S and τ provide valuable baseline information for assessing model performance and improving future carbon‐cycle assessments.
Elaboration Models with Symmetric Information Divergence
Authors: Asadi Majid , Devarajan Karthik , Ebrahimi Nader , Soofi Ehsan , Spirko‐Burns Lauren 
Published: April 2022

SummaryVarious statistical methodologies embed a probability distribution in a more flexible family of distributions. The latter is calledelaboration model, which is constructed by choice or a formal procedure and evaluated by asymmetric measures such as the likelihood ratio and Kullback–Leibler information. The use of asymmetric measures can be problematic for this purpose. This paper introduces two formal procedures, referred to as link functions, that embed any baseline distribution with a continuous density on the real line into model elaborations. Conditions are given for the link functions to render symmetric Kullback–Leibler divergence, Rényi divergence and phi‐divergence family. The first link function elaborates quantiles of the baseline probability distribution. This approach produces continuous counterparts of the binary probability models. Examples include the Cauchy, probit, logit, Laplace and Student's links. The second link function elaborates the baseline survival function. Examples include the proportional odds and change point links. The logistic distribution is characterised as the one that satisfies the conditions for both links. An application demonstrates advantages of symmetric divergence measures for assessing the efficacy of covariates.
Replication of design theories: Reflections on function, outcome, and impact
Authors: Brendel Alfred Benedikt , Muntermann Jan 
Published: April 2022

AbstractThe replication of existing research studies and theories is considered a foundational pillar of knowledge accumulation and an important instrument of discourse across research disciplines. Although replication has a long tradition in natural and behavioural science research, the design science research (DSR) community is yet to adopt it, especially the replication of design theories. However, it is unclear how the DSR community could benefit from the replication of design theories. Similarly, the goal of design theories is to obtain utility instead of truth raises questions regarding the transferability of replication into the DSR domain. Against this background, this study reflects on the function, outcome, and impact of replications, to understand whether the replication of design theories is possible and necessary. The study proposes that replication can be an important catalyst for reuse and knowledge accumulation in DSR because it provides evidence on the boundaries of design theory. Specifically, replication can increase or decrease the level of confidence and projectability associated with design theory.
relBE toxin-antitoxin system as a reliable anti-biofilm target in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Mahmoudi Mina , Sadeghifard Nourkhoda , Maleki Abbas , Yeo Chew Chieng , Ghafourian Sobhan 
Published: April 2022

Abstract

Aims
The ability of the pathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa to produce biofilms has made it more difficult to treat its infections with current antibiotics. Several genes are involved in biofilm production, and toxin-antitoxin (TA) loci have been reported to be responsible for the regulation of biofilm-associated genes. This study was aimed at evaluating various TA loci in P. aeruginosa to find a reliable target in order to disrupt biofilm formation.

Methods and Results
Thirty clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa were assessed for biofilm production as well as the presence of various TA loci in their genomes. The relBETA locus was present in all 30 P. aeruginosa isolates but its expression was not detectable in isolates that did not show biofilm production. Quantitative real-time -PCR (q-PCR) also demonstrated that the expression of relBE was higher in isolates with stronger biofilm-producing capability. Knocking out the relBE locus in one biofilm-producing P. aeruginosa isolate led to the cessation of biofilm-producing capacity in that isolate and eliminated the expression of ndvB, which is among the genes involved in biofilm production.

Conclusions
These results inferred the involvement of relBE TA locus in the regulation of biofilm production in P. aeruginosa and indicated the possibility of relBE as an anti-biofilm target for this pathogen.
Calculated parameters of luminal esophageal temperatures predict esophageal injury following conventional and high‐power short‐duration radiofrequency pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Grosse Meininghaus Dirk , Freund Robert , Kleemann Tobias , Christoph Geller J. 
Published: April 2022

AbstractBackgroundLuminal esophageal temperature (LET) monitoring is not associated with reduced esophageal injury following pulmonary vein isolation (PVI).ObjectiveDetailed analysis of (the temporal and spatial gradients of) LET measurements may better predict the risk for esophageal injury.MethodsBetween January 2020 and December 2021, LET maxima, duration of LET rise above baseline, and area under the LET curve (AUC) were calculated offline and correlated with (endoscopy and endoscopic ultrasound detected) esophageal injury (i.e., mucosal esophageal lesions [ELs], periesophageal edema, and gastric motility disorders) following PVI using moderate‐power moderate‐duration (MPMD [25–30 W/25–30s]) and high‐power short‐duration (HPSD [50 W/13s]) radiofrequency (RF) settings.Results63 patients (69 ± 9 years old, 32 male, 51 MPMD and 12 HPSD) were studied. The esophageal injury was frequent (40% in both groups), mucosal ELs were more common with MPMD, and edema was frequently observed following HPSD. RF‐duration, total RF‐energy at the left atrial (LA) posterior wall, and distance between LA and esophagus were not different between patients with/without esophageal injury. In contrast, to LET and LET duration above baseline, AUC was the best predictor and significantly increased in patients with esophageal injury (3422 vs. 2444 K.s).ConclusionFor both ablation strategies, AUC of the LET curves best predicted esophageal injury. HPSD is associated with similar rates of esophageal injury when (mostly subclinical) periesophageal alterations (that are of unclear clinical relevance) are included. Whether integration of these calculated LET parameters is useful to prevent esophageal injury remains to be seen.
How to Reflexively Decentre EU Foreign Policy: Dissonance and Contrapuntal Reconstruction in Migration, Religious and Neighbourhood Governance
Authors: Wolff Sarah , Gazsi David , Huber Daniela , Fisher‐Onar Nora 
Published: April 2022

AbstractThis article develops a timely new model for EU foreign policy by advancing the call for a ‘decentring agenda’, focused on the challenge of inclusive ‘reconstruction’. It does so by first staking out an ontological space at the intersection of empirical multiplexity and normative pluriversality. Within this space, it proposes an ethically informed methodological tool: the contrapuntal negotiation of dissonant perspectives on common governance challenges. It then suggests ways to reconstruct analytical and policy‐making processes and outcomes on the basis of mutuality and local empowerment. Using three scales of ‘contrapuntality’ (micro, meso and macro) to read key empirical sites at the intersection of the EU's internal and external policies (migration, religious and neighbourhood governance), it argues that by decentring in these and further arenas, the EU can seek to become a more reflexive global actor in sync with the ethical and practical demands of our multiplex world.
Physical activity, sedentary behaviour and screen time among youths with Down syndrome during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Amatori S. , Sisti D. , Perroni F. , Brandi G. , Rocchi M. B. L. , Gobbi E. 
Published: April 2022

AbstractBackgroundThe COVID‐19‐related restrictions hampered habitual physical activity (PA), particularly affecting the more vulnerable, such as people with Down syndrome (DS). The study aimed to investigate changes in PA, sedentary behaviour (SB) and screen time (ST) of youths with DS, before, during and after the restrictions, also in relation to parental PA levels.MethodsA cross‐sectional design with a retrospective assessment of variables for the before and during restrictions periods was adopted. Parents of youths with DS completed an online questionnaire. Sociodemographic aspects, weekly PA levels and youths' daily SB and ST were investigated, referring to three time‐points: before the pandemic, during the restrictions and the restrictions‐easing phase.ResultsA total of 57 parents voluntarily participated in the study, proxy‐reporting on their child (male = 41, female = 16, age = 21.4 ± 7.7 years). A repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance showed negative effects of restrictions (P < 0.05) on PA levels, SB and ST, independently from sociodemographic characteristics. In the restrictions‐easing phase, PA levels did not return to before the pandemic values (P < 0.05). A positive correlation between parents and their child's PA was detected before the pandemic (r = 0.38; P < 0.01), no longer reported in the restrictions‐easing phase.ConclusionsThe findings showed the negative impact of restrictions on youths with DS lifestyle. Moreover, the importance of addressing the needs of the disabled community including the whole family is highlighted.
Lycopene prevents bone loss in ovariectomized rats and increases the number of osteocytes and osteoblasts
Authors: Semeghini Mayara Sgarbi , Scalize Priscila Hakime , Coelho Maria Carolina , Fernandes Roger Rodrigo , Pitol Dimitrius Leonardo , Tavares Milla Sproni , de Sousa Luiz Gustavo , Coppi Antonio Augusto , Siessere Selma , Bombonato‐Prado Karina Fittipaldi 
Published: April 2022

AbstractOsteoporosis is a prevalent disease with a high incidence in women at the onset of menopause mainly because of hormonal changes, genetics, and lifestyle, leading to decreased bone mass and risk of fractures. Maintaining bone mass is a challenge for postmenopausal women, with calcium‐rich food intake being essential for bone health. Nevertheless, other nutrients such as carotenoids may influence bone metabolism because of their high antioxidant properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the carotenoid lycopene on bone cells and in the microarchitecture of ovariectomized rats employing in vitro and in vivo assays. After 8 weeks of ovariectomy, femurs were removed to isolate bone marrow mesenchymal cells to be cultured in osteogenic medium (sham and ovariectomized/OVX) or with 1 μmol/L lycopene (OVX/Lyc). There were performed assays for alkaline phosphatase activity and its in situ detection, mineralization nodules, and quantitative expression of genes associated with osteogenesis. Daily ingestion of 10 mg/kg of lycopene by oral gavage for 8 weeks after ovariectomy was conducted for stereological evaluation of the number and volume of osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes of femur distal epiphysis and for microtomographic evaluation of the bone microarchitecture of the femoral proximal epiphysis. Data were normalized and analyzed by comparison among the groups using one‐way ANOVA followed by post hoc tests with the significance level set out at 5%. Results showed that lycopene promoted an increase in ALP in situ detection as well as a significant increase in mineralized nodules deposition and expression of genes Runx2 and Bglap when compared with the OVX group. The administration by oral gavage of lycopene increased the total number of osteoblasts and osteocytes when compared to sham and ovariectomized groups. Additionally, it decreased the volume and number of osteoclasts and also reduced the volume of osteocytes compared to the sham group. These results suggest that lycopene improves bone cell metabolism and bone remodeling with the onset of osteoporosis. Future studies with different concentrations and periods of administration should be carried out to shed further light on it.
Complex enameloid microstructure of †Ischyrhiza mira rostral denticles
Authors: Cook Todd D. , Prothero Jack , Brudy Michael , Magraw Jerome A. 
Published: April 2022

AbstractServing in a foraging or self‐defense capacity, pristiophorids, pristids, and the extinct sclerorhynchoids independently evolved an elongated rostrum lined with modified dermal denticles called rostral denticles. Isolated rostral denticles of the sclerorhynchoid Ischyrhiza mira are commonly recovered from Late Cretaceous North American marine deposits. Although the external morphology has been thoroughly presented in the literature, very little is known about the histological composition and organization of these curious structures. Using acid‐etching techniques and scanning electron microscopy, we show that the microstructure of I. mira rostral denticles are considerably more complex than that of previously described dermal denticles situated elsewhere on the body. The apical cap consists of outer single crystallite enameloid (SCE) and inner bundled crystallite enameloid (BCE) overlying a region of orthodentine. The BCE has distinct parallel bundled enameloid (PBE), tangled bundled enameloid (TBE), and radial bundled enameloid (RBE) components. Additionally, the cutting edge of the rostral denticle is produced by a superficial layer of SCE and a deeper ridges/cutting edge layer (RCEL) of the BCE. The highly organized enameloid observed in the rostral denticles of this batomorph resembles that of the multifaceted tissue architecture observed in the oral teeth of selachimorphs and demonstrates that dermal scales have the capacity to evolve histologically similar complex tooth‐like structures both inside and outside the oropharyngeal cavity.
Vulvovaginal candidiasis: An overview of mycological, clinical, and immunological aspects
Authors: Jafarzadeh Leila , Ranjbar Maryam , Nazari Tina , Naeimi Eshkaleti Mahsa , Aghaei Gharehbolagh Sanaz , Sobel Jack D. , Mahmoudi Shahram 
Published: April 2022

AbstractAimTo provide an overview of clinical, immunological, and mycological aspects of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC).MethodsA literature search was conducted to find relevant articles about different aspects of VVC. Related data from retrieved articles were summarized in different headings.ResultsVVC has a global distribution andCandida albicansis the leading cause of infection except for specific patient groups like postmenopausal, diabetic, or immunocompromised women. VVC has a range of clinical presentations, accordingly, its diagnosis should be based on clinical examination coupled with laboratory investigations. The best therapeutic regimen depends on the patient's conditions and the causative agent. Moreover, factors like drug resistance of the causative agents and different mutations in the immunity‐related genes could affect the treatment outcome.ConclusionAs a globally distributed disease, VVC needs further attention, especially in areas related to the treatment failure and recurrence of the disease.
Effect of Effervescent Denture Cleansers on 3D Surface Roughness of Conventional Heat Polymerized, Subtractively, and Additively Manufactured Denture Base Resins: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Jain Saurabh , Adawi Hafiz 
Published: April 2022

AbstractPurposeTo compare the change in surface roughness of denture bases fabricated using three different techniques (additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, and conventional heat‐polymerizing) when immersed in two commonly available denture cleansers.Materials and methodsOne hundred and seventeen disc‐shaped denture base specimens (39/group), were fabricated by subtractive manufacturing (Wieland), additive manufacturing (NextDent Denture 3D+), and conventional heat‐polymerizing (Meliodent) techniques, following the manufacturers’ instructions. Specimens were randomly divided into 3 groups and immersed in two effervescent denture cleansing solutions and distilled water to simulate 180 days of denture cleansing. A 3D optical noncontact surface profilometer was used to record the surface roughness of the tested denture base materials before and after immersion. Two‐way ANOVA, followed by Bonferroni post hoc test, was used to assess the effects of denture cleansers on surface roughness of tested denture base resins.ResultsWhen immersed in Fixodent and Fittydent effervescent denture cleansing solutions, the highest change in absolute surface roughness (∆Sa, in μm) was observed in additively manufactured denture base material (0.181 ±0.018 and 0.079 ±0.008), followed by heat‐polymerized denture base material (0.149 ±0.012 and 0.059 ± 0.011), while subtractively manufactured denture base material showed the least change (0.110 ±0.026 and 0.038 ±0.007), respectively. There was a difference in the extent of change in surface roughness between the denture cleansers. The change in surface roughness was much higher with the Fixodent denture cleanser as compared to the Fittydent denture cleanser.ConclusionSubtractively manufactured denture base resin displayed the lowest change while additively manufactured denture base resin displayed the highest change in surface roughness in both denture cleansers, but the extent of change in surface roughness was variable.
Be my (little) partner?!—Universities' role in regional innovation systems when large firms are rare
Authors: Kindt Anna‐Maria , Geissler Matthias , Bühling Kilian 
Published: April 2022

AbstractStructural differences regarding the presence of large firms are likely to influence the performance of Regional Innovation Systems. Regions lacking large firms to act as brokers of knowledge and coordinators of regional (R&D) collaboration may have to rely on other actors to form internal and external links. We investigate whether, in this case, universities can fulfill the needs of Small‐ and Medium‐sized Enterprises (SMEs) with regard to coordination and knowledge flows. Using a data set of subsidized R&D collaborations, we compare universities' network positions in four model regions in Germany. Applying a Temporal Exponential Random Graph Model approach, we examine link formation and network structure with a focus on university–SME ties and their development over time. Results indicate that SMEs profit from connections to the university in all regions. Nevertheless, universities take more central roles in regions where the economic surrounding does contain fewer large firms as sources for knowledge exchange.
The quixotic eighteenth century
Authors: Dale Amelia 
Published: April 2022

Abstract“Quixotism” is a term pivotal to the histories critics tell about literature. Despite a scholarly consensus regarding the significance of quixotism to eighteenth‐century transatlantic writing, there remain vast discrepancies in critical formulations of what quixotism actually is, to the point where trying to find common ground in different scholars' definitions of quixotism might appear, at first glance, a quixotic endeavour. Yet scholarship on quixotism persistently returns to dichotomies: romance versus the novel; the exceptional versus the typical; the original versus the copy; reason versus imagination. Quixotism remains both vexing question and floating signifier, caught between character and genre, system and allusion as it traverses and transforms eighteenth‐century literature and culture. In this article I will both reflect on the state of quixotic studies in eighteenth‐century studies and offer an account of Don Quixote's place in the history of literary criticism and theory.
Fe‐Ni sulfides in Tagish Lake: Implications for nebular and parent body conditions of formation
Authors: Holt Miranda C. , Herd Christopher D. K. 
Published: April 2022

AbstractThis study examined nine pristine samples representing seven lithologies of the ungrouped C2 carbonaceous chondrite Tagish Lake from the University of Alberta Meteorite Collection using scanning electron microscope and electron probe microanalyzer analyses to characterize the sulfide mineralogy, textures, and compositions present. Four distinct sulfide morphologies were identified including pyrrhotite containing exsolved pentlandite, unexsolved pyrrhotite, and unexsolved pentlandite, and a unique “bull’s‐eye” sulfide morphology. The at% Fe/Ni of the pyrrhotite grains within these samples decreases with increasing degree of alteration and roughly places them in the alteration order of TL11v chip1 < TL4 < TL11v chip2 < TL5b ≤ TL10a < TL 11h < TL1 < TL11i. The at% Fe/Ni of low Ni (<1 wt% Ni) pyrrhotite indicates that the overall degree of alteration of Tagish Lake lies between that of CM1/2 and CI chondrites. Comparison of the composition of the sulfides to established Fe‐Ni‐S phase diagrams at different temperatures indicates two separate generations of sulfide formation. They are (1) high‐temperature formation of exsolved pyrrhotite–pentlandite and much of the unexsolved pentlandite at ~500–600 °C, likely by cooling of a monosulfide solid solution melt during chondrule formation; and (2) low‐temperature formation of unexsolved pyrrhotite, some unexsolved pentlandite, pyrrhotite containing flame‐like pentlandite bodies, and bull’s‐eye sulfides at ~25–100 °C, likely formed during aqueous alteration events on the Tagish Lake parent body.
Relational Reasoning: A Foundation for Higher Cognition Based on Abstraction
Authors: Kalra Priya B. , Richland Lindsey E. 
Published: April 2022

ABSTRACTThis article provides an introduction to the special issue on relational reasoning. It first provides a definition of relational reasoning, and provides a conceptual framework for relational reasoning research as follows: The ability to represent concepts abstractly is critical for relational reasoning. Relational reasoning in turn provides a foundation for higher cognitive abilities such as language, and analogical reasoning. Understanding relational concepts is also crucial for STEM education. Experience, including formal education, may enhance relational reasoning ability, which in turn may facilitate future learning, forming a positive feedback loop. Creative problem‐solving or reasoning can also be defined in terms of abstraction or semantic distance, providing an important link between relational reasoning and creativity. Each of the articles in the special issue is briefly discussed and framed within these concepts.