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Climate and land use changes are eroding biodiversity globally, and reptiles are highlighted as being particularly susceptible. In South Africa, global changes threaten the persistence of an assemblage of dwarf chameleons (Bradypodion) located in a biodiversity hotspot. We used ecological niche modelling to assess the combined effect of climate change and habitat transformation on these species and assessed their susceptibility in a vulnerability framework under optimistic and pessimistic change scenarios. Although our models showed a gain in suitable climatic space for all coastal species in some scenarios, considerable losses were predicted for most species under the most pessimistic change scenarios. Bradypodion ngomeense, for example is predicted to incur a complete loss of climatic suitability by 2050. The vulnerability framework predicts inland species to be more adversely affected by climate change than coastal species. However, no species show resilience to the combined effects of climate change and habitat transformation. Our models predicted a loss of climatically suitable habitat for most species in protected areas. These findings highlight the importance of a protected area network design to remain a step ahead of these anticipated changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new hydroxo‐bridged ruthenium (II) complex [{Ru(η6‐p‐cymene)(iPr2P−O)}2(μ‐OH)]Cl (2) has fortuitously been isolated from the reaction between the known ruthenium(II) complex [RuCl2(η6‐p‐cymene)(iPr2P‐OH)] (1) in either CDCl3 or CHCl3 solutions in the presence of excess DBU (1,8‐diazabicyclo(5.4.0)undec‐7‐ene) at room temperature. Complex 2 is only formed under specific conditions as an orange‐colored air and moisture stable binuclear complex. It is formed via the deprotonation of the P−OH unit in [RuCl2(η6‐p‐cymene)(iPr2P‐OH)]. Complex 2 has been fully characterized by spectroscopic and analytical methods. Its structure was determined by single crystal X‐ray diffraction which reveals a boat‐shaped motif containing a bridging hydroxide unit which undergoes hydrogen bonding with a chloride counterion. Complex 2 was utilized as a catalyst for the hydrogenation of CO2 to formic acid salt using molecular hydrogen. The catalytic reactions were performed at 100 °C in THF in the presence of DBU as a base to isolate [DBU+H][OC(O)H] salt as the final product. Using catalyst loadings down to 0.01 mol%, it was possible to hydrogenate gaseous CO2 with TONs up to 9900. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the decline of scientific quality due to the emphasis on quantity and ease of access in publishing. It highlights the shift towards Open Access (OA) publishing, where authors pay Article Processing Charges (APCs) to make their research freely available. While OA publications are believed to be cited more often, the high APCs can be exorbitant and lead to limited access for researchers who cannot afford to publish. The article also raises concerns about the potential lowering of scientific standards and the need for publishers to prioritize rigorous research. The African Journal of Herpetology is working with its publisher to address affordability issues and provide better options for authors. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Esophageal diverticula were traditionally treated with open surgery, which is associated with significant morbidity and mortality rates. Management has shifted to minimally invasive approaches with several advantages. We examine outcomes in patients with esophageal diverticula treated with minimally invasive techniques by a multidisciplinary surgical team at a single center. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was performed for patients who underwent minimally invasive surgery for esophageal diverticula at our institution from June 2010 to December 2022. Primary outcomes were 30-day morbidity and mortality rates. Secondary outcomes were symptom resolution, length of stay (LOS), readmission, and need for reintervention. Results: A total of 28 patients were identified. Twelve patients had pharyngeal diverticula, 7 patients had midesophageal diverticula, and 9 patients had epiphrenic diverticula. Thirty-day morbidity and readmission rates were 10.7% (3 patients), 1 pharyngeal (sepsis), 1 midesophageal (refractory nausea), and 1 epiphrenic (poor oral intake). There were no esophageal leaks. Average LOS was 2.3 days, with the pharyngeal group experiencing a significantly shorter LOS (1.3 days versus 3.4 days for midesophageal, P < .01 versus 2.8 days for epiphrenic, P < .05). Symptom resolution after initial operation was 78.6%. Reintervention rate was 17.9%, and symptom resolution after reintervention was 100%. There were no mortalities. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that esophageal diverticula can be repaired safely and efficiently when performed by a multidisciplinary team utilizing advanced minimally invasive endoscopic and robotic surgical techniques. We advocate for the management of this rare condition at a high-volume center with extensive experience in foregut surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study described a deformity induced by medial plating of supracondylar distal femur fractures using plates that are precontoured for other anatomic locations. Materials and methods: OTA/AO 33A fractures were created in 12 sawbone femurs and fixed with either a proximal humerus locking plate (PH), an ipsilateral lateral tibial plateau plate (LTP), or an ipsilateral medial distal tibial plate (MDT). A motion capture system measured changes in length and rotation of the distal femur as the plate was applied. Each plate underwent four trials and the mean and standard deviation (SD) for each measurement was reported. An analysis of variance with post hoc Tukey test compared malreduction measures between plate types. Results: All plates consistently created a varus deformity. There was lateral lengthening with a compensatory medial shortening and an increase in the lateral distal femoral angle. The distal fracture fragment was laterally translated, and internally rotated. The PH plate had significantly greater lateral length (27.39 mm SD 4.78, p = 0.007), shorter medial length (13.57 mm SD 4.99, p = 0.028), greater lateral translation (28.82 mm SD 5.70, p = 0.010) and greater widening of the lateral distal femoral angle (28.54° SD 4.98, p < 0.001) than the LTP and MDT plates. The MDT plate had significantly greater angulation anteriorly (8.40° SD 1.07, p < 0.001) and laterally (7.63° SD 3.10, p = 0.002) than the PH and LTP plates. There was no significant difference between plates in internal rotation (PH: 3.07° SD 2.79; LTP: 2.05° SD 1.05; MDT 3.81° SD 3.56; p = 0.659). Conclusion: When dual plating supracondylar distal femur fractures, poor plate positioning and a mismatch between plate contour and the slope of the medial distal femur can lead to varus angulation, internal rotation, and lateral translation or a "reverse golf club deformity". After comparing three types of precontoured plates, the authors recommend initial evaluation of the ipsilateral proximal tibial plate when placing a plate along the medial distal femur. Level of evidence: IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel configurations of a process for methane pyrolysis using a molten catalyst bubble column reactor are proposed in this study. These configurations aim to achieve reasonable conversion at temperatures below 1000 °C by recycling a fraction of the hot reactor product gas. Three recycling configurations are assessed: the first utilizes an ejector, the second employs a compressor, and the third combines a compressor with a turbo-expander. The performance of these configurations was evaluated using ASPEN HYSYS to compare them against a reference cycle without recycling. The evaluation criteria included methane conversion and the thermal heat requirement of the reactor. The results indicate that recycling can significantly increase methane conversion, with a maximum improvement of 165%. Specifically, when recycling 80% of the hot products in the first pass conversion using the third configuration, methane conversion increased from 17.8% to 47.2%. The other two configurations achieved conversions of 28%, representing a 57% increase from the baseline of 17.8% under the same conditions. Furthermore, it is possible to achieve a configuration with zero net CO2 emissions by employing renewable power and utilising some of the hydrogen product for combustion to meet the process heat demand. • Process configurations to achieve methane pyrolysis at temperatures below 1000 °C. • Product gas recycling to increase conversion of methane pyrolysis. • Evaluating net CO 2 emissions and energy consumption for realistic fuel compositions. • Comparing compressors, turbo-expanders and ejectors for hot gas recycling. • Optimal performance was found with a combination of a turbo-expander and compressor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let (S,n)$(S,\mathfrak {n})$ be a regular local ring and f$f$ a non‐zero element of n2$\mathfrak {n}^2$. A theorem due to Knörrer states that there are finitely many isomorphism classes of maximal Cohen–Macaulay (CM) R=S/(f)$R=S/(f)$‐modules if and only if the same is true for the double branched cover of R$R$, that is, the hypersurface ring which is defined by f+z2$f+z^2$ in S⟦z⟧$S\llbracket z \rrbracket$. We consider an analogue of this statement in the case of the hypersurface ring defined instead by f+zd$f+z^d$ for d⩾2$d\geqslant 2$. In particular, we show that this hypersurface, which we refer to as the d$d$‐fold branched cover of R$R$, has finite CM representation type if and only if, up to isomorphism, there are only finitely many indecomposable matrix factorizations of f$f$ with d$d$ factors. As a result, we give a complete list of polynomials f$f$ with this property in characteristic zero. Furthermore, we show that reduced d$d$‐fold matrix factorizations of f$f$ correspond to Ulrich modules over the d$d$‐fold branched cover of R$R$. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The murine Bordetella pertussis challenge model has been utilized in preclinical research for decades. Currently, inconsistent methodologies are employed by researchers across the globe, making it difficult to compare findings. The objective of this work was to utilize the CD-1 mouse model with two routes of challenge, intranasal and aerosol administration of B. pertussis, to understand the differences in disease manifestation elicited via each route. We observed that both routes of B. pertussis challenge result in dose-dependent colonization of the respiratory tract, but overall, intranasal challenge led to higher bacterial burden in the nasal lavage, trachea, and lung. Furthermore, high dose intranasal challenge results in induction of leukocytosis and pro-inflammatory cytokine responses compared to aerosol challenge. These data highlight crucial differences in B. pertussis challenge routes that should be considered during experimental design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the concept of fetal microchimerism, where fetal cells from pregnancies are retained by mothers for extended periods post-delivery, and the recent publication by Úbeda & Wild regarding the potential function of these cells. The commentary discusses the hypothesis that these microchimeric cells serve as indicators of kinship, affecting resource allocation to the fetus based on the mother's mating behavior and the genetic diversity of her microchiome.

Background: Well-designed public health interventions ideally aspire to reduce health disparities between racial and ethnic groups. Yet, there remains virtually no research examining racial/ethnic disparities in interventions for marginalized perinatal populations with substance use disorders (SUD). We sought to examine whether there were racial/ethnic differences at intake, in retention, and in program outcomes among pregnant or postpartum women with prenatal substance use enrolled in a three-year intensive case management intervention. We hypothesized that: (1) at baseline, numerous racial/ethnic disparities in well-being, health, and health care would be observed, and (2) after the three-year intervention few racial/ethnic disparities in maternal and child health and welfare would be found. Methods: We used self-reported data from 3,165 women aged 18 to 45 years enrolled in the Parent-Child Assistance Program in Washington State between May 10, 2006, and September 21, 2017. We used Fisher-Freeman-Halton Exact Tests and t-tests to compare racial/ethnic groups at program enrollment and exit and logistic regression to examine likelihood of completing the intervention by group, controlling for other factors. Results: Despite numerous racial/ethnic differences at enrollment, there were no such differences in outcomes among those who finished the program and completed an exit interview. Different racial/ethnic groups received comparable case manager time. American Indians/Alaska Natives were less likely to finish the program (Adjusted Odds = 0.66). Conclusions: Participants who finished the program achieved comparable outcomes regardless of race/ethnicity. More work is needed to understand why American Indian/Alaska Native women were less likely than the others to finish the program and to close this service gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of long-duration gamma-ray burst (LGRB) host galaxies with measured metallicities and host masses has expanded sufficiently to investigate how the distributions of these properties change with redshift. Using the combined host galaxy metallicity sample from Graham & Fruchter and Krühler et al., we find a surprising lack of evolution in the LGRB metallicity distribution across different redshifts. In particular, the fraction of LGRB hosts with relatively high metallicity (12+log(O/H) ≥ 8.4) remains essentially constant out to z = 2.5. This result is at odds with the evolution in the mass–metallicity relation of typical galaxies, which become progressively more metal poor with increasing redshift. A similar result is found when converting the LGRB host galaxy mass distribution taken from the Swift GRB Host Galaxy Legacy Survey (SHOALS) sample to a corresponding metallicity distribution by applying a redshift-dependent mass–metallicity relation. The SHOALS sample is compiled using an unbiased selection function implying that the observed lack of evolution in the host galaxy high-metallicity distribution is not caused by selection effects. However, the LGRB host galaxy metallicities estimated from the stellar mass are typically a quarter dex higher at all redshifts than the metallicity we measure spectroscopically. This implies that using mass–metallicity relationships to estimate host metallicities will thus produce a substantial systematic bias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anecdotal evidence indicates that the holotype of Anthrenus goliath Saulcy in Mulsant & Rey, 1867 was lost along with other holotypes in Mulsant's collection through neglect and poor storage prior to transfer to Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, in 1944. Here, a (male) neotype for A. goliath is designated. The only feasible confusion species, A. corona Holloway, 2021 is considered to ensure the neotype is definitively A. goliath. Images of habitus, antenna, aedeagus, and sternite IX are illustrated. A female of the species is also shown. The only known location of A. goliath currently known is Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Face detection has been studied by presenting faces in blank displays, object arrays, and real-world scenes. This study investigated whether these display contexts differ in what they can reveal about detection, by comparing frontal-view faces with those shown in profile (Experiment 1), rotated by 90° (Experiment 2), or turned upside-down (Experiment 3). In blank displays, performance for all face conditions was equivalent, whereas upright frontal faces showed a consistent detection advantage in arrays and scenes. Experiment 4 examined which facial characteristics drive this detection advantage by rotating either the internal or external facial features by 90° while the other features remained upright. Faces with rotated internal features were detected as efficiently as their intact frontal counterparts, whereas detection was impaired when external features were rotated. Finally, Experiment 5 applied Voronoi transformations to scenes to confirm that complexity of stimulus displays modulates the detection advantage for upright faces. These experiments demonstrate that context influences what can be learned about the face detection process. In complex visual arrays and natural scenes, detection proceeds more effectively when external facial features are preserved in an upright orientation. These findings are consistent with a cognitive detection template that focuses on general face-shape information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The placenta has evolved to support the development of the embryo and fetus during the different intrauterine periods of life. By necessity, its development must precede that of the embryo. There is now evidence that during embryogenesis and organogenesis, the development of the human placenta is supported by histotrophic nutrition secreted from endometrial glands rather than maternal blood. These secretions provide a plentiful supply of glucose, lipids, glycoproteins and growth factors that stimulate rapid proliferation and differentiation of the villous trophoblast. Furthermore, evidence from endometrial gland organoids indicates that expression and secretion of these products are upregulated following sequential exposure to oestrogen, progesterone and trophoblastic and decidual hormones, in particular prolactin. Hence, a feed-forward signalling dialogue is proposed among the trophoblast, decidua and glands that enables the placenta to stimulate its own development, independent of that of the embryo. Many common complications of pregnancy represent a spectrum of disorders associated with deficient trophoblast proliferation. Increasing evidence suggests that this spectrum is mirrored by one of impaired decidualization, potentially compromising histotroph secretion through diminished prolactin secretion and reduced gland function. Optimizing endometrial wellbeing prior to conception may therefore help to prevent common pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage, growth restriction and pre-eclampsia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parenting supports are critical for mothers with substance use disorders (SUD) in treatment and recovery. Early intervention is a vital protective factor for children with developmental and behavioral challenges due to prenatal substance exposure and early adversity. We present the Trauma Informed Parenting (TIP) intervention model for mothers parenting young children while in residential SUD treatment. Its design was guided by principles and practices of occupational therapy, trauma-informed care, and relationship-focused early intervention. We describe the development, implementation and short-term outcomes of the intervention, characteristics of the mothers (N = 150) and children (N = 96), and discuss lessons learned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suicide continues to be a major cause of mortality in adolescents with limited treatment options.1,2 Effective treatments, both therapy and medication, are available for treating depression, but even with the best combination, treatment remission rates are low.3 The most common approach to treating suicidality, which includes suicidal ideation and suicidal behavior, is to address concomitant depression. Ketamine and its enantiomers have shown rapid anti-suicidal effects in adults with MDD, and intranasal esketamine is approved for treating treatment-resistant depression (TRD) in adults.4,5 The effectiveness of ketamine for the treatment of depression frequently lags behind the treatment of suicidality. There are also many methodological differences and barriers to assessing the effectiveness of short-term treatments. These include measurement of change over short time frames, measurement of suicidality, and so forth. Finally, the use of novel short-term treatments in treating chronic depression and suicidality in real-world situations is unclear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term level of care is utilized in mental health care to refer to the different ways in which treatment can be delivered, including qualitative (e.g., modality, approach, setting) and quantitative (e.g., number of sessions, frequency of sessions) variations in services. The concept is often embedded in models of care and measures, yet there is no agreed upon definition or understanding of what it encompasses. A scoping review of level of care conceptualizations in models of care, and triage and service use measures was conducted. Twenty-nine conceptualizations across 63 articles were identified, 12 focused on qualitative components, four on quantitative components, and 13 on a combination of qualitative and quantitative components. A conceptual model to integrate the literature reviewed is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mental health walk-in clinics (MHWCs) provide unscheduled and immediate support to children and families and remove common administrative barriers. This study explored the implementation of MHWCs across Ontario, CA. A brief provincial survey was conducted to identify agencies that provided MHWCs, which were then invited to complete an in-depth survey. The in-depth survey questions were formatted as multiple choice, yes/no, Likert scale, and open-ended questions, taking 20–25 min with the option of online or phone-based completion. A total of 18 (86%) agencies participated in the in-depth survey between September 2020 and April 2021. MHWCs are being used to provide timely and accessible services, as well as to serve as a point of intake. MHWCs are provided in different locations (e.g. agencies, schools) using different modalities (e.g. consulting break) and approaches (e.g. cognitive behavioural therapy, narrative therapy, solution focused therapy). Most agencies quickly adapted to COVID-19 restrictions by providing virtual MHWCs. The most common reasons for implementing MHWCs were to reduce waitlists, the strong evidence base, and an effort to meet families' needs. Different benefits and challenges associated with the implementation of MHWCs were reported. The results of this provincial study help better understand the implementation of MHWCs and how agencies adapted to COVID-19 and associated restrictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variation in patterns of recombination in plant genomes provides information about species evolution, genetic diversity and crop improvement. We investigated meiotic crossovers generated in biparental segregating and reciprocal backcross populations of the allopolyploid genome of rapeseed (Brassica napus) (AACC, 2n = 38). A structured set of 1445 intercrossed lines was derived from two homozygous de novo genome-assembled parents that represented the major genetic clusters of semi-winter Chinese and winter European rapeseeds, and was used to increase QTL resolution and achieve genomic reciprocal introgression. A high-density genetic map constructed with 6161 genetic bins and anchored centromere regions was used to establish the pattern of recombination variation in each chromosome. Around 93% of the genome contained crossovers at a mean rate of 3.8 cM Mb-1, with the remaining 7% attributed to centromeres or low marker density. Recombination hotspots predominated in the A genome, including two-thirds of those associated with breeding introgression from B. rapa. Genetic background might affect recombination variation. Introgression of genetic diversity from European winter to Chinese semi-winter rapeseed showed an increase in crossover rate under the semi-winter environment. Evidence for an elevated recombination rate having historically contributed to selective trait improvement includes accumulation of favorable alleles for seed oil content on hotspots of chromosome A10. Conversely, strong artificial selection may affect recombination rate variation, as appears to be the case with a coldspot resulting from strong selection for glucosinolate alleles on A09. But the cold region would be promptly reactivated by crossing design indicated by the pedigree analysis. Knowledge of recombination hotspots and coldspots associated with QTL for 22 traits can guide selection strategies for introgression breeding between the two gene pools. These results and rich genomic resources broaden our understanding of recombination behavior in allopolyploids and may advance rapeseed genetic improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daytime sleep during the preschool years (i.e., 1-5-years-old) is characterized by high inter-child variability in several components of nap behavior, including nap duration, nap timing, and the proportion of sleep during daytime. We used an empirical approach to examine variations amongst children in these aspects of napping and investigated correlates of these components of nap behavior. A large, nationally representative sample (N = 702) of Canadian parents completed an online survey, including a one-month retrospective report of their 1.5–5 year old's daytime and nighttime sleep behavior and other questionnaires. To understand patterns of children's nap behaviors we applied Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) to typical nap duration, typical timing of naps, frequency of naps, proportion of sleep during the daytime, and the proportion of naps which were spontaneous (i.e., child just fell asleep). Then, multinominal logistic regression was used to examine correlates of profile membership. Four profiles of children emerged: (1) regular nappers; (2) intermittent nappers; (3) spontaneous nappers; and (4) non-nappers. After controlling for demographic variables (e.g., child age, sex, ethnicity) and known correlates of napping behaviors (e.g., birthweight, nighttime sleep duration), profile membership was related to parents' beliefs about napping, parents' own nap behaviors, family functioning, and child nighttime sleep problems in a multinominal logistic regression. An empirical approach aided in understanding the inter-child variability in napping amongst preschool-age children. Parental beliefs about napping and the home environment were shown to be critical factors influencing this variability. [Display omitted] • The profiles were regular, intermittent, spontaneous, and non-napping. • Child age was not related to intermittent or spontaneous napping. • Parental beliefs and parents own nap behaviors predicted children's nap behavior. • Stable and predictable family functioning may support flexible approaches to naps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition areas between different tissues, known as tissue interfaces, have limited ability to regenerate after damage, which can lead to incomplete healing. Previous studies focussed on single interfaces, most commonly bone-tendon and bone-cartilage interfaces. Herein, we develop a 3D in vitro model to study the regeneration of the bone-tendon-muscle interface. The 3D model was prepared from collagen and agarose, with different concentrations of hydroxyapatite to graduate the tissues from bones to muscles, resulting in a stiffness gradient. This graduated structure was fabricated using indirect 3D printing to provide biologically relevant surface topographies. MG-63, human dermal fibroblasts, and Sket.4U cells were found suitable cell models for bones, tendons, and muscles, respectively. The biphasic and triphasic hydrogels composing the 3D model were shown to be suitable for cell growth. Cells were co-cultured on the 3D model for over 21 days before assessing cell proliferation, metabolic activity, viability, cytotoxicity, tissue-specific markers, and matrix deposition to determine interface formations. The studies were conducted in a newly developed growth chamber that allowed cell communication while the cell culture media was compartmentalised. The 3D model promoted cell viability, tissue-specific marker expression, and new matrix deposition over 21 days, thereby showing promise for the development of new interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species Anthrenus bakaloudisi sp. nov. is described from Greece. Images of external and internal features are illustrated. The aedeagus of A. bakaloudisi has slim parameres so is compared with species that also have slim parameres from middle and eastern Mediterranean and just into Asia: A. pfefferi, A. delicatus, and A. warchalowskii. The new species differs internally from A. pfefferi in subtle ways, but it is easy to distinguish between the species using external colour pattern. Anthrenus delicatus differs from A. bakaloudisi internally and ways of distinguishing between the two species externally are described. Anthrenus warchalowskii is only known from Iran and differs from A. bakaloudisi internally. No information could be found on the likely true range of A. bakaloudisi, so the species is currently only known from Macedonia, Greece in the region of Thessaloniki. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The use of periarticular multimodal analgesia injections is increasing and has become commonplace in some surgeries. However, there is no data on the effectiveness of local periarticular multimodal analgesia for tibial plateau fractures. We hypothesized that closed tibial plateau fracture patients receiving the local multimodal analgesic medications would experience a decrease in VAS pain scores.Methods: Patients aged between 18 and 79 with an isolated closed tibial plateau fracture (AO 41-B and C) were prospectively enrolled and randomized in a 1:1 double blinded fashion to either a placebo or active medication treatment arm. After ORIF, gel-foam sponges soaked in either multimodal analgesic solution or normal saline. Patients were followed for 24 h post-operatively with Visual Analog pain Scores (VAS). Patients were monitored post-operatively for complications including compartment syndrome, infection, and non-union.Results: The planned study was terminated prior to completion due to higher than anticipated rates of infection (18%), distributed equally among active (3) and placebo (2) groups, raising concerns that this may have been due to the presence of the delivery device. Twenty-eight patients were enrolled, 15 in the active group and 13 in the placebo group. Patients in the active medication group had significantly decreased pain scores at hours 4 (p = 0.005, 4.2 vs 6.9), 8 (p = 0.05, 5 vs 7), and 12 (p = 0.02, 3.8 vs 6.2). Pain scores at hours 16 (p = 0.10, 4.5 vs 6.5), 20 (p = 0.08, 4.6 vs 6.4), and 24 (p = 0.10, 4.8 vs 6.5) were also decreased but did not reach significance.Discussion: The use of local multimodal periarticular analgesic for closed tibial plateau fractures appears to be beneficial for short-term pain control post-operatively. Concerns regarding an implantable delivery vehicle leading to infection has warranted a change in method of drug administration. Completion of the full study will permit us to validate or refute these findings.Level Of Evidence: Therapeutic Level 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cultural stereotypes that equate aging with decreased competence and increased forgetfulness have persisted for decades. Stereotype threat (ST) refers to the psychological discomfort people experience when confronted by a negative, self-relevant stereotype in a situation where their behavior could be construed as confirming that belief. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships of ST on memory performance in older adults over 24 months. The ST levels on average significantly declined, or improved in the memory training, but not the health training group. Although not significant at the.01 level, the bivariate correlation indicated that change in ST was moderately related to change in verbal memory, suggesting the possibility that improvements (or reductions) in ST may be related to increases in verbal memory scores. We discovered that the unique contribution of ST into the memory performance of healthy older adults offers a possible malleable trait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the prospect of seabed mining in the Area looms closer, much of the debate to date has focused on the prospects of economic gain versus environmental harm. This article contends that potential human health implications must also be considered, including threats to food safety and security and acceleration of global climate change. Through analysis of both scientific and legal literature, this article highlights several ways in which seabed mining may impact human health due to harm to marine biodiversity, threatening enjoyment of the right to health under international human rights law. Against this backdrop, this article reviews the draft regime for the exploitation phase of seabed mining, currently under development by the International Seabed Authority, and highlights two areas in which the regime is incompatible with the human right to health. These findings highlight potential for stronger alignment between the seabed mining and international human rights law regimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a variety of gram-positive and gram-negative infections, such as infections of the ear, nose, and throat, genitourinary tract, skin, and lower respiratory tract; gonorrhea; and Helicobacter pylori. The prophylactic benefit of both amoxicillin and Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate for use against β-lactamase–expressing bacteria) was evaluated for inhalation anthrax in cynomolgus macaques in 2 studies. A pilot study on amoxicillin-clavulanate that used a portion of the study animals demonstrated empirically that dosing twice a day was efficacious. In a subsequent study on both amoxicillin and amoxicillin-clavulanate that used the remaining study animals, the animals were treated orally every 12 hours on days 1–28 postchallenge and followed for an additional 60 days (total of 88 days from day of aerosol challenge to when the animals were culled). The animals from each treatment arm of the 2 studies were completely protected. All untreated animals succumbed to the infection. The degree of protection observed in this study suggests that both amoxicillin and amoxicillin-clavulanate, administered prophylactically over a period of 28 days after a lethal exposure to Bacillus anthracis spores, is sufficient for full protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is commonly recognised that natural history datasets contain locality errors that can compromise the utility of those datasets. However, another source of error in these datasets is taxonomic misidentifications, and this type of error is potentially common, particularly with regards to morphologically conservative species. For example, in the African skinks, the Trachylepis striata and T. varia species complexes each contain morphologically similar species that are commonly confused, despite being genetically distinct. Some species also are partly sympatric, and misidentifications are likely to be especially problematic in those areas. Using DNA barcoding, we assessed misidentification rates between species and applied the updated identifications to known distribution maps to examine whether those maps are accurate representations. Existing banked samples and newly collected samples were DNA barcoded using the mitochondrial 16S gene and supplemented with GenBank data. Identifications were made by matching sequences using haplotype networks that included material from near type localities. The barcode-based identifications were compared with the original identifications recorded for those samples. Taxonomic error was common, particularly in areas of presumed sympatry (error for T. striata species complex: 28%; T. varia species complex: 31%) and this resulted in inaccurately represented species distributions and areas of sympatry. Areas of sympatry were, however, confirmed for T. spilogaster/T. punctatissima, T. striata/T. punctatissima and T. damarana/T. laevigata/T. varia. Our findings corroborate other studies that demonstrate taxonomic error in existing datasets is a significant, but typically unrecognised problem, particularly for morphologically conservative species. This has implications for the utility of historical collections, citizen science records and public databases used in the formulation of species distribution maps, but also for other downstream analyses that rely on these datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian skull shape diversity is classically thought to result from selection for structures that are well adapted for distinct ecological functions, but recent work has suggested that allometry is the dominant contributor to avian morphological diversity. If true, this hypothesis would overturn much conventional wisdom regarding the importance of form-function relationships in adaptive radiations, but it is possible that these results are biased by the low taxonomic levels of the clades that have been studied. Using 3D morphometric data from the skulls of a relatively old and ecologically diverse order of birds, the Charadriiformes (shorebirds and relatives), we found that foraging ecology explains more than two-thirds of the variation in skull shape across the clade. However, we also found support for the hypothesis that skull allometry evolves, contributing more to shape variation at the level of the family than the order. Allometry may provide an important source of shape variation on which selection can act over short timescales, but its potential to evolve complicates generalizations between clades. Foraging ecology remains a better predictor of avian skull shape over macroevolutionary timescales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Distal femur fractures are challenging injuries historically associated with high rates of nonunion and varus collapse with operative management. As a result, clinical and research interest in dual plating (DP) of distal femur fractures has seen a dramatic increase in recent years. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature regarding vascular anatomy and biomechanics of distal femur fractures treated with DP constructs. Materials and methods: A systematic literature review of two medical databases (PubMed & Scopus) was performed to identify peer-reviewed studies on the anatomy and biomechanics regarding DP of distal femur fractures. A total of 1,001 papers were evaluated and 14 papers met inclusion criteria (6 anatomy and 8 biomechanics). Methodological quality scores were used to assess quality and potential bias in the included studies. Results: In the biomechanical studies, DP constructs demonstrated greater axial and rotational stiffness, as well as less displacement and fewer incidences of failure compared to all other constructs. Vascular studies showed that the femoral artery crosses the mid-shaft femur approximately 16.0–18.8 cm proximal to the adductor tubercle and it is located on average 16.6–31.1 mm from the femoral shaft at this location, suggesting that medial plate application can be achieved safely in the distal femur. The methodological quality of the included studies was good for biomechanical studies (Traa score 79.1; range 53–92.5) and excellent for anatomical studies (QUACs score 81.9; range 69.0–88.5). Conclusions: Existing biomechanics literature suggests that DP constructs are mechanically stronger than other constructs commonly used in the treatment of distal femur fractures. Furthermore, medial distal femoral anatomy allows for safe application of DP constructs, even in a minimally invasive fashion. Dual plating should be considered for patients with distal femur fractures that have risk factors for instability, varus collapse, or nonunion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperhomocysteinemia may arise from folate/vitamin B12 deficiency, genetic polymorphisms, kidney disease, or hypothyroidism. It is associated with an increased risk of early pregnancy loss and placenta‐related complications of pregnancy, including pre‐eclampsia and fetal growth restriction. While the majority of studies of hyperhomocysteinemia focus on epigenetic changes secondary to metabolic disruption, the effects of homocysteine toxicity on placental development remain unexplored. Here, we investigated the influence of hyperhomocysteinemia on early blastocyst development and trophoblast differentiation. Exposure of cultured blastocysts to high homocysteine levels reduces cell number in the trophectoderm layer, most likely through increased apoptosis. Homocysteine also promotes differentiation of a trophoblast stem cell line. Both effects diminish the stem cell pool, and are mediated in an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) unfolded protein response (UPRER)‐dependent manner. Targeted alleviation of UPRER may therefore provide a new therapeutic intervention to improve pregnancy outcome in women with hyperhomocysteinemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Different multi-segment foot models have been used to explore the effect of foot orthoses. Previous studies have compared the kinematic output of different multi-segment foot models, however, no study has explored if different multi-segment foot models detect similar kinematic changes when wearing a foot orthoses. The aim of this study was to compare the ability of two different multi-segment foot models to detect kinematic changes at the hindfoot and forefoot during the single and double support phases of gait when wearing a foot orthosis. Methods: Foot kinematics were collected during walking from a sample of 32 individuals with and without a foot orthosis with a medial heel bar using an eight-camera motion capture system. The Oxford Foot Model (OFM) and a multi-segment foot model using the Calibrated Anatomical System Technique (CAST) were applied simultaneously. Vector field statistical analysis was used to explore the kinematic effects of a medial heel bar using the two models, and the ability of the models to detect any changes in kinematics was compared. Results: For the hindfoot, both models showed very good agreement of the effect of the foot orthosis across all three anatomical planes during the single and double support phases. However, for the forefoot, the level of agreement between the models varied with both models showing good agreement of the effect in the coronal plane but poorer agreement in the transverse and sagittal planes. Conclusions: This study showed that while consistency exists across both models for the hindfoot and forefoot in the coronal plane, the forefoot in the transverse and sagittal planes showed inconsistent responses to the foot orthoses. This should be considered when interpreting the efficacy of different interventions which aim to change foot biomechanics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European polecat (Mustela putorius) is a mammalian predator which occurs across much of Europe east to the Ural Mountains. In Great Britain, following years of persecution the range of the European polecat contracted and by the early 1900s was restricted to unmanaged forests of central Wales. The European polecat has recently undergone a population increase due to legal protection and its range now overlaps that of feral domestic ferrets (Mustela putorius furo). During this range expansion, European polecats hybridized with feral domestic ferrets producing viable offspring. Here, we carry out population-level whole-genome sequencing on 8 domestic ferrets, 19 British European polecats, and 15 European polecats from the European mainland. We used a range of population genomics methods to examine the data, including phylogenetics, phylogenetic graphs, model-based clustering, phylogenetic invariants, ABBA-BABA tests, topology weighting, and Fst. We found high degrees of genome introgression in British polecats outside their previous stronghold, even in those individuals phenotyped as "pure" polecats. These polecats ranged from presumed F1 hybrids (gamma = 0.53) to individuals that were much less introgressed (gamma = 0.2). We quantify this introgression and find introgressed genes containing Fst outliers associated with cognitive function and sight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) used in the treatment of hypertension and potentially in SARS-CoV-2 infection exhibit inverse agonist effects at angiotensin AR1 receptors, suggesting the receptor may have evolved to accommodate naturally occurring angiotensin 'antipeptides'. Screening of the human genome has identified a peptide (EGVYVHPV) encoded by mRNA, complementary to that encoding ANG II itself, which is an inverse agonist. Thus, opposite strands of DNA encode peptides with opposite effects at AR1 receptors. Agonism and inverse agonism at AR1 receptors can be explained by a receptor 'switching' between an activated state invoking receptor dimerization/G protein coupling and an inverse agonist state mediated by an alternative/second messenger that is slow to reverse. Both receptor states appear to be driven by the formation of the ANG II charge-relay system involving TyrOH-His/imidazole-Carboxylate (analogous to serine proteases). In this system, tyrosinate species formed are essential for activating AT1 and AT2 receptors. ANGII is also known to bind to the zinc-coordinated metalloprotease angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) used by the COVID-19 virus to enter cells. Here we report in silico results demonstrating the binding of a new class of anionic biphenyl-tetrazole sartans ('Bisartans') to the active site zinc atom of the endopeptidase Neprilysin (NEP) involved in regulating hypertension, by modulating humoral levels of beneficial vasoactive peptides in the RAS such as vasodilator angiotensin (1–7). In vivo and modeling evidence further suggest Bisartans can inhibit ANG II-induced pulmonary edema and may be useful in combatting SARS-CoV-2 infection by inhibiting ACE2-mediated viral entry to cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measures of parents' cognitions have advanced our understanding of infants' sleep. But, few comparable measures exist for use with parents of preschool- or school-age children. The Parents' night-waking thoughts and affect questionnaire (PNTQ), a self-report measure of parents' thoughts and feelings when their children wake during the night, addresses this need. This scale was evaluated in two community samples of parents (N = 473). Sample 1 included preschool-age children (2–5-years-old), and Sample 2 included preschool- and school-age children (2–10-years-old). A subsample completed 1-month test–retest reliability for the PNTQ (n = 201). Parents completed the PNTQ and measures of agreement with night-waking strategies, parenting stress, mental health, and night-waking. The psychometric properties of the PNTQ (i.e., internal consistency, test–retest reliability; content, construct, and convergent validity) were evaluated. A four-factor solution (positive thoughts about limit-setting, positive thoughts about active comforting, concerns about limit-setting, and distress about night-waking) demonstrated adequate fit in Sample 1 (robust CFI =.900; robust RMSEA =.060), which was replicated in Sample 2 (robust CFI =.870; robust RMSEA =.080). Internal consistency (αc =.68–.88) and test–retest reliability (r =.46–.80) were acceptable across subscales and samples. There was good evidence for convergent validity in both samples—including correlating with parent-reported night-waking behaviour. The PNTQ is a promising measure of thoughts and affect related to night-waking experienced by parents whose children wake during the night. The PNTQ may increase understanding of parents' use of specific night-waking strategies and may account for resistance to employing alternate techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • For Au catalyst the preparation methods are very important. • Gold can be an active catalyst as cations, clusters and nanoparticles. • Cooperative Redox enhancement (CORE) effect is important for redox reactions. • Chemo and enzyme catalysts can be combined effectively for oxidation reactions. This perspective article is based on a plenary lecture delivered by the author at Europacat 2023 in Prague on 29th August in recognition of the Boudart Award of EFCATS in 2021. The article charts the journey taken by the author in the discovery and application of gold catalysts over the preceding 40 years of research. Five topics are discussed. The first three parts describe three facets of monometallic gold catalysts. (1) CO oxidation and the hierarchy of activity of gold species supported on a reducible oxide Fe 2 O 3 ; (2) acetylene hydrochlorination for the manufacture of vinyl chloride monomer using highly dispersed gold cations supported on carbon; (3) methane oxidation using molecular oxygen with gold nanoparticles dispersed on the zeolite H-ZSM-5. These first three parts emphasise that the active species of a gold catalyst is dependent on the reaction being catalysed and it is not a one size fits all for this catalysis. The final two parts concern gold palladium bimetallic catalysts. (4) alcohol oxidation and the new Cooperative Redox Enhancement effect (CORE); and (5) the use of in situ generation of hydrogen peroxide to enable new oxidative cascade processes. These examples demonstrate the rich tapestry that catalysis by gold can provide to the catalysis community globally, both from an academic and an industrial perspective as well as the societal impact that has been achieved by the commercialisation of gold catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Windhoek-born Wulf Dietrich Haacke's career as a herpetologist while associated with the Transvaal Museum in Pretoria spanned more than 50 years. He passed away on 30 June 2021 at the age of 84. This tribute summarises various aspects of his life and achievements, and their significance to African herpetology, including his involvement with the Herpetological Association of Africa. Wulf's collecting expeditions to various southern African countries, especially Namibia, Angola, South Africa and Lesotho, contributed significantly to making the herpetological collection at Ditsong National Museum of Natural History (formerly Transvaal Museum) one of the largest such collections on the continent. He generated 72 herpetology-related publications, including significant lizard taxonomic revisions. His publications include descriptions of 16 herpetological taxa (13 lizards, two snakes and one frog). To date, nine animal taxa (four lizards, five invertebrates) have been named in his honour. We include personal recollections, based on our association with him since the 1980s. A bibliography of Wulf's herpetological publications is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Plating of unstable OTA/AO 44-B2 equivalent lateral malleolus (Danis-Weber B) fractures has been associated with pain, peroneal irritation, and the need for subsequent hardware removal (ROH). The purpose of this study is to retrospectively compare the rates of ROH in unstable Weber B fractures fixed with a posterior, true antiglide plate with no screws in the distal segment versus those that were fixed with a similarly placed posterior, neutralization construct that included screws in the distal fragment. Thus, evaluating the role of the distal screws in rates of ROH.Methods: Skeletally mature patients that were treated for an unstable, isolated Weber B fracture at a single level-1 trauma center over a ten-year period were reviewed. Fractures treated with a single posterior plate with at least six months of follow-up were included and those fixed with a direct lateral plate were excluded. The primary outcome of this study was hardware removal defined as entire plate removal; isolated syndesmotic screw removal was not included.Results: Ninety-six patients were included in the study with average age of 46 years (range 17-83) and mean length of follow-up of 24.5 months (range 6.1-140.3). There were 33 patients in the antiglide group (mean follow-up 25.5 months) and 63 in the neutralization plate group (mean follow-up 24 months, p=0.81). Fractures fixed with or without distal screws had equivalent excellent results related to bony union and alignment. However, there was a statistically significant decrease in ROH rates in the antiglide group (antiglide ROH rate 15.2%; neutralization ROH rate 38.1%; p=0.02). Relative risk of ROH with antiglide plate was 0.4 (95% CI 0.17 - 0.95; p=0.04).Conclusions: Antiglide plating shows a significant risk reduction in the rate of ROH when compared to posterior based neutralization plating. A true antiglide plating construct should be considered as a safe and effective way of managing Weber B fractures with a lower relative risk of a second operation for hardware removal.Level Of Evidence: Therapeutic level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Occult instability of lateral compression type-1 (LC1) pelvic ring injuries may be determined with a fluoroscopic stress examination under anesthesia (EUA) performed in the operating room. We hypothesized that LC1 injuries, similar to some fractures of the extremities, could be radiographically stressed for stability in the emergency department (ED). Our primary objective was to determine if stress examination of LC1 fractures could be safely and accurately performed in the ED and could be tolerated by patients.Methods: A prospective, consecutive series of 70 patients with minimally displaced LC1 pelvic injuries (<10-mm displacement on presentation) underwent stress examinations performed by the on-call orthopaedic resident in the ED radiology suite. The stress examination series included static 40° inlet, internal rotation stress inlet, and external rotation stress inlet views. Pelvic fractures that had positive stress results (≥10 mm of overlap of the rami) were indicated for a surgical procedure. These fractures also underwent EUA in order for the 2 techniques to be compared.Results: All patients tolerated the ED stress examination without general anesthetic or hemodynamic instability. Fifty-seven patients (81%) had negative stress results and were allowed to bear weight. All patients with negative stress results who had 3-month follow-up went on to radiographic union without substantial displacement. For the patients with a positive stress result in the ED, the mean displacement was 15.15 mm (95% confidence interval [CI], 10.8 to 19.4 mm) for the ED stress test and 15.60 mm (95% CI, 11.7 to 19.4 mm) for the EUA (p = 0.86). Two patients with a negative ED stress test did not mobilize during their hospitalization and underwent EUA and conversion to a surgical procedure. Thus, a total of 11 patients underwent both stress testing in the ED and EUA; no patient had a positive result on one test but a negative result on the other.Conclusions: ED stress examination of LC1 injuries is a safe and reliable method to determine pelvic ring stability. The displacement measured in the ED stress examination is similar to the displacement measured under general anesthesia. Furthermore, a negative ED stress examination predicts successful nonoperative treatment. Given the results of this study, we encourage the use of stress examination in the ED for LC1-type injuries involving complete sacral fractures only. Widescale adoption of this streamlined protocol may substantially diminish cost, anesthetic risk, and potential operations for patients.Level Of Evidence: Diagnostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Northern peatlands are a terrestrial carbon store, with an annual sink of 0.1 Pg C yr−1 and a total storage estimate of 547 Pg C. Northern peatlands are also major contributors of atmospheric methane. Most land surface models do not accurately represent peatland carbon emissions, partly because they do not represent the hydrologic cycle and/or microtopography adequately. Interactions between water table depth and microtopography in peatlands influence decomposition and modulate CO2 and CH4 fluxes. A modified version of the land surface component of the Energy Exascale Earth System Model, was recently created to represent the microtopography and hydrology of a raised dome bog in northern Minnesota, USA. In this study, three microtopographic parameters are analyzed in the modified version: hummock height, hummock‐hollow spacing, and percent hollow. Terrestrial laser scanning observations are used to set uncertainty bounds for these parameters. Our model experiment results suggest that carbon‐related quantities of interest (QOI) were typically the most sensitive to hummock height, and those QOI (especially net ecosystem exchange, NEE) were sensitive to interactions between parameters. Furthermore, NEE was most relatively influenced by microtopographic parameters in the model, varying by 35%. We found that increasing hummock height resulted in more C being stored in plant tissue and less in soil organic matter. This coincided with decreases in Sphagnum and increases in Picea and shrub net primary production. These results suggest that future studies may consider extending prognostic capabilities of carbon cycling by incorporating hummock hollow microtopography into earth system models. Plain Language Summary: Northern peatlands are a major terrestrial carbon store and contributors of atmospheric methane. As the climate warms, peatlands are predicted to increase carbon release to the atmosphere, resulting in a positive feedback loop. The topography of northern peatlands is shaped by hummocks and hollows, and is tightly coupled with the hydrologic cycle. In this study we investigated the sensitivity of hummock and hollow microtopography on carbon cycling in a land surface model. We described hummock height, hummock‐hollow space, and percent hollow in the model and then tested the sensitivity of model outputs related to these parameters. We found that hummock height had a positive relationship with C storage in plant tissue. This coincided with decreases in Sphagnum (moss) and increases in black spruce and shrub production. Observations of microtopography in earth system models may be useful in understanding carbon cycling in peatlands. Key Points: Incorporating hummock hollow microtopography into an earth system model advances our prognostic capabilities of carbon cyclingCarbon‐related quantities of interest were typically the most sensitive to hummock heightNet ecosystem exchange was influenced by microtopographic parameters in the model [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this article is to aid the orthopedic surgeon in determining whether an intra-medullary (IM) device for fixation of a distal tibia fracture is feasible. Using Computed Tomography (CT) scans of the fracture, this review demonstrates a simple way to determine whether two or even three distal interlocking screws are achievable in stable bone. Additionally, this paper offers a summary chart of commonly used tibial nails which can be used for planning purposes. Finally, a clinical summary of very distal tibial shaft fractures treated with IM fixation is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertebrate embryos achieve developmental competency during zygotic genome activation (ZGA) by establishing chromatin states that silence yet poise developmental genes for subsequent lineage-specific activation. Here, we reveal the order of chromatin states in establishing developmental gene poising in preZGA zebrafish embryos. Poising is established at promoters and enhancers that initially contain open/permissive chromatin with 'Placeholder' nucleosomes (bearing H2A.Z, H3K4me1, and H3K27ac), and DNA hypomethylation. Silencing is initiated by the recruitment of polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1), and H2Aub1 deposition by catalytic Rnf2 during preZGA and ZGA stages. During postZGA, H2Aub1 enables Aebp2-containing PRC2 recruitment and H3K27me3 deposition. Notably, preventing H2Aub1 (via Rnf2 inhibition) eliminates recruitment of Aebp2-PRC2 and H3K27me3, and elicits transcriptional upregulation of certain developmental genes during ZGA. However, upregulation is independent of H3K27me3 - establishing H2Aub1 as the critical silencing modification at ZGA. Taken together, we reveal the logic and mechanism for establishing poised/silent developmental genes in early vertebrate embryos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results recently reported on the effect of thermochemical treatments on the (He-Cd) laser-excited emission spectra of strontium titanate (STO) are re-analyzed here and compared with results obtained under ion-beam irradiation. Contributing bands centered at 2.4 eV and 2.8 eV, which appear under laser excitation, present intensities dependent upon previous thermal treatments in oxidizing (O2) or reducing atmosphere (H2). As a key result, the emission band centered at 2.8 eV is clearly enhanced in samples exposed to a reducing atmosphere. From a comparison with the ionoluminescence data, it is concluded that the laser-excited experiments can be rationalized within a framework developed from ion-beam excitation studies. In particular, the band at 2.8 eV, sometimes attributed to oxygen vacancies, behaves as expected for optical transitions from conduction-band (CB) states to the ground state level of the self-trapped exciton center. The band at 2.0 eV reported in ion-beam irradiated STO, and attributed to oxygen vacancies, is not observed in laser-excited crystals. As a consequence of our analysis, a consistent scheme of electronic energy levels and optical transitions can now be reliably offered for strontium titanate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerical simulations of the particle-laden gas–solid flow in horizontal circular pipes have been used to identify the role of particle collision coefficients in flow regimes within it. A four-way coupling Euler–Lagrangian approach was employed, using direct numerical simulations of the gas phase and Lagrangian particle tracking to account for the drag, gravitational and lift forces, together with particle–wall and inter-particle interactions. The influences on the flow of the mass loading ratio ( Φ m ) and of the coefficients of restitution for collisions both between particles and the wall ( e p − w ) and between particles ( e p − p ) are assessed by examining the fluid and particle velocities, particle concentration distribution, turbulence kinetic energy, static pressure, inter-phase transferred momentum, and the secondary flow motions of both the fluid and particle phases. Three dominant flow regimes that include three sub-regimes based on their secondary flow patterns are identified, the transition between which depends on the combination of Φ m , e p − w , and e p − p . Additionally, the quantitative dependence of these transitions on these three parameters is also reported for a series of Stokes and Froude numbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite identification of numerous associations between microbiomes and diseases, the complexity of the human microbiome has hindered identification of individual species and strains that are causative in host phenotype or disease. Uncovering causative microbes is vital to fully understand disease processes and to harness the potential therapeutic benefits of microbiota manipulation. Developments in sequencing technology, animal models, and bacterial culturing have facilitated the discovery of specific microbes that impact the host and are beginning to advance the characterization of host-microbiome interaction mechanisms. We summarize the historical and contemporary experimental approaches taken to uncover microbes from the microbiota that affect host biology and describe examples of commensals that have specific effects on the immune system, inflammation, and metabolism. There is still much to learn, and we lay out challenges faced by the field and suggest potential remedies for common pitfalls encountered in the hunt for causative commensal microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phylogenetic trees provide a powerful framework for testing macroevolutionary hypotheses, but it is becoming increasingly apparent that inferences derived from extant species alone can be highly misleading. Trees incorporating living and extinct taxa are needed to address fundamental questions about the origins of diversity and disparity but it has proved challenging to generate robust, species-rich phylogenies that include large numbers of fossil taxa. As a result, most studies of diversification dynamics continue to rely on molecular phylogenies. Here, we extend and apply a recently developed meta-analytic approach for synthesizing previously published phylogenetic studies to infer a well-resolved set of species level, time-scaled phylogenetic hypotheses for extinct and extant cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and allies). Our trees extend sampling from the |$\sim 90$| extant species to over 500 living and extinct species, and therefore allow for more robust inference of macroevolutionary dynamics. While the diversification scenarios, we recover are broadly concordant with those inferred from molecular phylogenies they differ in critical ways, notably in the relative contributions of extinction and speciation rate shifts in driving rapid radiations. The metatree approach provides the most immediate route for generating higher level phylogenies of extinct taxa and opens the door to re-evaluation of macroevolutionary hypotheses derived only from extant taxa.[Extinction; macroevolution; matrix representation with parsimony; morphology; supertree.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the article, the authors explain how excessive bureaucratic red tape is adversely affecting biodiversity research in South Africa. Also cited are how strict legislation and regulations are restricting progress in research due to factors like permit and ethics clearance requirements, as well as the efforts by the government to reduce the requirements due to the negative effect of red tape on economic growth and small business enterprises.

Vertebrates employ an impressive range of strategies for coordinating their limb movements while walking. Although this gait variation has been quantified and hypotheses for its origins tested in select tetrapod lineages, a comprehensive understanding of gait evolution in a macroevolutionary context is currently lacking. We used freely available internet videos to nearly double the number of species with quantitative gait data, and used phylogenetic comparative methods to test key hypotheses about symmetrical gait origin and evolution. We find strong support for an ancestral lateral-sequence diagonal-couplet gait in quadrupedal gnathostomes, and this mode is remarkably conserved throughout tetrapod phylogeny. Evolutionary rate analyses show that mammals overcame this ancestral constraint, resulting in a greater range of phase values than any other tetrapod lineage. Diagonal-sequence diagonal-couplet gaits are significantly associated with arboreality in mammals, though this relationship is not recovered for other tetrapod lineages. Notably, the lateral-sequence lateral-couplet gait, unique to mammals among extant tetrapods, is not associated with any traditional explanations. The complex drivers of gait diversification in mammals remain unclear, but our analyses suggest that their success was due, in part, to release from a locomotor constraint that has probably persisted in other extant tetrapod lineages for over 375 Myr. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy transfer through large disordered antenna networks in photosynthetic organisms can occur with a quantum efficiency of nearly 100%. This energy transfer is facilitated by the electronic structure of the photosynthetic antennae as well as interactions between electronic states and the surrounding environment. Coherences in time-domain spectroscopy provide a fine probe of how a system interacts with its surroundings. In two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy, coherences can appear on both the ground and excited state surfaces revealing detailed information regarding electronic structure, system-bath coupling, energy transfer, and energetic coupling in complex chemical systems. Numerous studies have revealed coherences in isolated photosynthetic pigment-protein complexes, but these coherences have not been observed in vivo due to the small amplitude of these signals and the intense scatter from whole cells. Here, we present data acquired using ultrafast video-acquisition gradient-assisted photon echo spectroscopy to observe quantum beating signals from coherences in vivo. Experiments were conducted on isolated light harvesting complex II (LH2) from Rhodobacter sphaeroides, whole cells of R. sphaeroides, and whole cells of R. sphaeroides grown in 30% deuterated media. A vibronic coherence was observed following laser excitation at ambient temperature between the B850 and the B850* states of LH2 in each of the 3 samples with a lifetime of ~40-60 fs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis, characterization and application of a new complex, [Ir(κ2‐P,N‐6‐DCyPon*)(COD)] (1), where 6‐DCyPon* is the anionic species, 6‐dicyclohexylphosphino‐2‐oxo‐pyridinide, is reported herein. Complex 1 was found to be an active catalyst in the hydrogenation of CO2 at room temperature. The ligand, 6‐DCyPon*, is derived via deprotonation of a novel pro‐ligand, 6‐DCyPon (6‐dicyclohexylphosphino‐2‐pyridone) during the synthesis of 1. The ligand is shown to participate within the reversible hydrogenation of 1, via a cooperative process, in which the species, [IrH3(κ2‐P,N‐6‐DCyPon)(COD)] (2), was spectroscopically characterized, where 1 reacts with two equivalents of H2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elucidating factors that drive microhabitat selection in a species is important for informing the conservation management of the species. For species that use microhabitats as long-term refuge sites, selection pressures are likely to be strong because the microhabitat must fulfil their eco-physiological and life history requirements. Smaug giganteus (Sungazer) is a threatened (Vulnerable) cordylid lizard species in the highveld grasslands of South Africa – a key agricultural area in the country. Individuals dig burrows as refuges, which increases their sensitivity to habitat transformation. In addition, previous attempts to translocate populations have failed due to a lack of knowledge about their specific microhabitat requirements. We assessed microhabitat characteristics that may influence burrow site selection by measuring vegetation characteristics surrounding Sungazer burrows and comparing these to vegetation at randomly selected sites. We also recorded orientation, aspect, soil composition, and the presence of other animal dung. Sungazers selected sites with sparse vegetation cover, and where grass height was short, but had no preference for soil composition. There was no relationship between the presence of ungulate dung and the placement of Sungazer burrows. Most Sungazer burrows were orientated in a northerly direction on north-facing slopes, suggesting that burrow placement has thermoregulatory advantages. We recommend that to identify suitable sites for Sungazer translocations, landscapes are thoroughly surveyed with cognisance to the findings in this study, and that a soft-release translocation protocol follows to maximise translocation success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]