bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
starve: An R package for spatio‐temporal analysis of research survey data using nearest‐neighbour Gaussian processes
Authors: Lawler Ethan , Field Chris , Mills Flemming Joanna
Published: January 2023

Spatio‐temporal datasets that are difficult to analyse are commonly derived from ecological surveys. There are software packages available to analyse these datasets, but many of them require advanced coding skills. There is a growing need for easy‐to‐use packages that researchers can use to analyse common ecological datasets.

We develop a particular generalized linear mixed model framework for spatio‐temporal point‐referenced data that is flexible enough to accommodate data from most ecological surveys while being structured enough to facilitate analyses without advanced coding. Our implementation in the starve package uses a computationally efficient version of a nearest‐neighbour Gaussian process enabling analysis of relatively large datasets.

A tutorial analysis of a Carolina wren survey presents a recommended workflow for analyses while showcasing the capabilities of the package.

Our model and package are tools that can easily be added to researchers' routine to help make sense of data from ecological surveys. We emphasize the ability of our model to create fine‐scale spatio‐temporal predictions which can then be used to visualize and identify important trends in species distributions.
The regulatory effect of cooperation degree in increasing tobacco farmers’ income by mitigating production risk shocks
Authors: Zhang Ruoyan , Chen Ru
Published: January 2023

Context: Different from general agriculture, tobacco agriculture in China adopts the production mode of farmers’ cooperatives to instruct farmers to engage in tobacco agricultural production under a policy of tobacco control. In addition to providing convenience for industry technical standardization, the policy goal aims to cope with the impact of production risk shocks and ultimately ensure the modernization and transformation of the tobacco industry and the stability of income of farmers.

Objective: This study intends to explore the influence mechanism of the different degrees of cooperation and participation in cooperatives on the income of tobacco farmers from the perspective of risk shocks.

Methods: Through the quantitative methods of the OLS regression model, hierarchical regression model and moderation model, this paper analyzes the data of 393 farmers engaged in tobacco agricultural production in Shaanxi Province obtained from survey and empirically analyzes the relationship between the degree of cooperation and participation in cooperatives and income. Interaction terms between risk shocks and cooperation are introduced to verify the regulatory effect of participation in tobacco farmers’ professional cooperatives on mitigating risk shocks and improving agricultural income.

Results and conclusions: The results show that while risk shocks, including natural risks, market risks and policy risks, negatively affect the income of tobacco farmers, the degree of cooperation and participation has a significant positive effect on the income of tobacco farmers, and the degree of peasant households’ participation in the professional cooperative of tobacco farmers as a moderator variable has a regulatory effect on mitigating the impact of risk shocks on the income of tobacco farmers. The mechanism of action is that tobacco farmers participate in cooperatives to a higher degree, which can further promote the association of farmers and jointly resist risk shocks by reducing production costs, improving the technical level, and strengthening risk prevention and other measures to improve the income level.

Significance: It would be helpful to encourage tobacco farmers to take the initiative to participate in the daily management‐related affairs and decisions of cooperatives, strengthen technical training, obey cooperative management, and actively respond to cooperative policies to effectively resist risk shocks and stabilize farmers’ income level and family welfare.
Oral anticoagulants: A plausible new treatment for Alzheimer's disease?
Authors: Toribio‐Fernandez Raquel , Ceron Carlos , Tristão‐Pereira Catarina , Fernandez‐Nueda Irene , Perez‐Castillo Ana , Fernandez‐Ferro Jose , Moro Maria Angeles , Ibañez Borja , Fuster Valentin , Cortes‐Canteli Marta
Published: January 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are strongly associated. Both are multifactorial disorders with long asymptomatic phases and similar risk factors. Indeed, CVD signatures such as cerebral microbleeds, micro‐infarcts, atherosclerosis, cerebral amyloid angiopathy and a procoagulant state are highly associated with AD. However, AD and CVD co‐development and the molecular mechanisms underlying such associations are not understood. Here, we review the evidence regarding the vascular component of AD and clinical studies using anticoagulants that specifically evaluated the development of AD and other dementias. Most studies reported a markedly decreased incidence of composite dementia in anticoagulated patients with atrial fibrillation, with the highest benefit for direct oral anticoagulants. However, sub‐analyses by differential dementia diagnosis were scarce and inconclusive. We finally discuss whether anticoagulation could be a plausible preventive/therapeutic approach for AD and, if so, which would be the best drug and strategy to maximize clinical benefit and minimize potential risks.
‘He's a surgeon, like I'm not going to waste his time’: interviews to determine healthcare needs of people with low anterior resection syndrome after rectal cancer surgery
Authors: Burch Jennie , Wright Jeanee , Taylor Claire , Wilson Ana , Norton Christine
Published: January 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the views of people on their healthcare needs when managing their bowel symptoms following an anterior resection.

Method

One‐to‐one, semi‐structured interviews were undertaken, after consent and completion of three questionnaires. Results were analysed using a modified framework analysis and presented narratively.

Results

Twenty three participants aged 38–75 years were interviewed; 10 were men. Most had low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) scores indicating ‘major LARS’, Bowel Function Index scores ranged from 28 to 65. The two most bothersome symptoms were faecal incontinence and unpredictable bowel function. Data were grouped into three broad themes: ‘treatment consequences’, ‘strategies and compromises’ and ‘healthcare needs.’ Each theme had four subthemes, such as ‘bowel dysfunction’ in the theme ‘treatment consequences’. Bowel symptoms were common and persistent. Symptom management often required multiple interventions. Expressed healthcare needs included managing expectations through clinician‐led information. Participants needed knowledgeable clinicians to enquire about and assess symptoms, provide and reiterate information as well as making an onward referral to enable symptom management. Peers improved the adaptation process through support and advice. Our findings indicate that participants' needs are not being fully met.

Conclusion

People with LARS have unmet healthcare requirements needed to meet their individual goals. We propose these are addressed by using the acronym ‘LARS’: a Learned clinician who Asks and assesses bowel symptoms, Revisiting the topic to address new or persisting symptoms as well as Signposting, advising or referring onwards as needed.
Echocardiographic correlates of major adverse cardiac events at 1 year in patients with apical ballooning takotsubo syndrome
Authors: Farina Lauren A. , Tibrewala Anjan , Meng Zhiying , Baldridge Abigail S. , Voit Jay M. , Raissi Sasan R. , Lu Michelle , Khan Sadiya S. , Freed Benjamin H. , Akhter Nausheen
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is characterized by transient left ventricular dysfunction and associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. We sought to evaluate the association between change in cardiac mechanics after diagnosis of TTS with 1‐year incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Methods

We retrospectively identified 85 patients with apical TTS based on ICD 9/10 codes and chart adjudication, who had a follow‐up echocardiogram within 6 months of diagnosis. Echocardiograms were analyzed for left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), global longitudinal strain (GLS), GLS ratio, global circumferential strain (GCS), and global radial strain (GRS). Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify parameters associated with MACE (all‐cause mortality, heart failure, stroke, and coronary artery disease [CAD] requiring percutaneous coronary intervention [PCI]) at 1 year. Event‐free survival was assessed in patients with GLS (≤−18% vs. >18%) and LVEF (≥53% vs. <53%).

Results

Within 1 year of diagnosis, MACE occurred in 15 (18%) patients. Between baseline and follow‐up echocardiogram (median 15 [range 1–151] days), there were significant differences in change in LVEF and GLS in patients with versus without incident MACE. In multivariate analysis, change in LVEF (odds ratio [OR] = .93 [.87, .98], p = .013) and change in GLS (OR = 1.32 [1.04, 1.67], p = .022) were independently associated with MACE; however, the association with change in GLS was attenuated (odds ratio [OR] = 1.13 [.94, 1.36], p = .21) after adjustment for baseline and change in LVEF. Among patients with normalized LVEF at follow‐up, there were five (14.7%) MACE; whereas, there were no events among patients with normalized GLS.

Conclusions

In patients with apical TTS, recovery in GLS and LVEF at follow‐up was associated with significantly lower MACE at 1 year. Normalization of GLS at follow‐up was better able to discriminate event‐free survival than normalization of LVEF.
Host assessment and feeding behaviour of adult female Glycaspis brimblecombei on preferred and non‐preferred eucalypts
Authors: Tanha Reza , Steinbauer Martin J.
Published: January 2023

Insect herbivores assess plants by integrating responses elicited by a variety of external and internal cues and signals mediated by physical and chemical traits. We investigated host assessment behaviours of adult females of the Eucalyptus‐feeding psyllid, Glycaspis brimblecombei Moore (Hemiptera: Aphalaridae), on 10 species and subspecies (comprising preferred and non‐preferred hosts) using video recordings, electrical penetration graph (EPG) technology, and histological examination of tissues surrounding secondary veins. Our video recordings indicated that the shortest first searching time (mean 7.5 s) occurred on preferred hosts. Females placed on novel (non‐preferred) hosts jumped off leaves in <10 s. We found that host acceptance occurred surprisingly rapidly after stylet penetration, e.g., between 7 and 11 s on preferred eucalypts, suggesting a strong role for gustatory cues. Our histological studies provided no evidence of physical barriers to phloem access. Females produced eight EPG waveforms, as observed for other psyllids and aphids, but the durations of PG (xylem activity) and PE2 (phloem ingestion), in particular, were unlike those recorded for any other hemipteran. On preferred hosts, phloem ingestion represented 21.5% (mean duration 4 h 18 min) of individual feeding bouts, whereas on non‐preferred hosts, there was almost no ingestion from phloem. Xylem ingestion on non‐preferred hosts represented 20.1% (mean duration 4 h 1 min) of feeding bouts, presumably to imbibe water. Thus, contrary to widespread belief, female G. brimblecombei did not feed exclusively from phloem even on preferred hosts, but also regularly ingested from the xylem. This is surprising considering that nymphs construct lerps consisting of approximately 16% sugars, and suggests that adults feed from phloem for shorter periods than offspring. Rapid assessment of hosts could also mean that positive stimuli induced by sugars are opposed by negative gustatory stimuli experienced in non‐vascular tissues. The most likely source of such stimuli are water‐soluble polyphenolic compounds that are widespread in cell vacuoles.
Mitigating the effect of linear infrastructure on arboreal mammals in dense forest: A canopy bridge trial
Authors: Mitchell Briony , Harrison Lee , Ainley Joanne , van der Ree Rodney , Soanes Kylie
Published: January 2023

Roads and other linear infrastructure create treeless gaps that can limit the movement of non‐flying, arboreal animals. These negative effects are particularly strong in dense forests, where even narrow infrastructure corridors represent a significant change in habitat structure. Artificial canopy bridges are an increasingly common approach to mitigating the barrier effect of roads and other linear infrastructure on the movement of arboreal mammals; however, questions remain about the success of various designs for different species. Here we conduct an experimental evaluation of the response of a critically endangered possum, Leadbeater's Possum (Gymnobelideus leadbeateri), to two artificial canopy bridge designs: single‐rope bridges and ladder bridges. We found that both bridges were used by Leadbeater's Possum and five other species of arboreal marsupial to cross narrow, forestry roads. However, Leadbeater's Possums crossed ladder bridges 13 times more often than the single‐rope design (average of 564.5 and 41.75 crossings per design respectively). Radiotelemetry conducted on four Leadbeater's Possums prior to bridge installation detected no road crossings, providing preliminary evidence that the bridges improved cross‐road movement. Ladder bridges appear to be the better design choice for a wider range of arboreal marsupials as they were used more frequently, offer greater stability, and provide better predator avoidance than single‐rope designs.
Bridging the gap between preclinical scientists, clinical researchers, and clinicians: From animal research to clinical practice
Authors: Begasse de Dhaem Olivia , Wattiez Anne‐Sophie , de Boer Irene , Pavitt Sara , Powers Scott W. , Pradhan Amynah , Gelfand Amy A. , Nahman‐Averbuch Hadas
Published: January 2023

Background

Collaborations amongst researchers and clinicians with complementary areas of expertise enhance knowledge for everyone and can lead to new discoveries. To facilitate these interactions, shared language and a general understanding of how colleagues in different subfields of headache and headache research approach their work are needed.

Methods

This narrative review focuses on research methods applied in animal studies, human studies including clinical trials, and provides an overview of clinical practice.

Results

For animal studies, we describe concepts needed to evaluate the quality and relevance of preclinical studies. For human research, fundamental concepts of neuroimaging, quantitative sensory testing, genetic and epidemiological research methods, and clinical research methodology that are commonly used in headache research are summarized. In addition, we provide an understanding of what guides headache clinicians, and summarize the practical approach to migraine management in adults and children.

Conclusions

It is hoped that this review facilitates further dialogue between clinicians and researchers that will help guide future research efforts and implementation of research findings into clinical practice.
Intravenous metronidazole‐, levofloxacin‐containing triple therapy for treating patients with Helicobacter pylori‐related active peptic ulcer complications: A pilot study
Authors: Zhang Wei , Gui Qian , Chen Jinnan , Yu Dazhong , Su Wenyu , Zhu Changqing , Liang Xiao , Lu Hong
Published: January 2023

Objective

The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravenous use esomeprazole, metronidazole, and/or levofloxacin in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)‐associated peptic ulcer complications.

Methods

Inpatients with peptic ulcer complications who were not able to take oral medicine were randomly assigned to three groups: triple therapy (esomeprazole, levofloxacin, metronidazole) and dual therapy (esomeprazole, levofloxacin/metronidazole) for 7 days. After intravenous treatment, all patients received open‐label oral esomeprazole 20 mg bid for another 1 month. All subjects were followed up for gastroscopy at the seventh day of intravenous treatment to confirm the ulcer healing and 13C‐urea breath test to confirm successful H. pylori eradication 4–6 weeks after completion of oral esomeprazole therapy.

Results

The H. pylori eradication rate of both LEV‐dual therapy (33.3%, 95% CI: 9.7%–70.0%) and MTZ‐dual therapy (50%, 95% CI: 21.5%–78.5%) was significantly lower than that of triple therapy (95%, 95% CI: 71.1%–97.4%) (p = .003, .016). There were no significant differences in the adverse effects among all treatment groups, and the adverse effects were rare.

Conclusions

The intravenous triple regimen, consisting of proton‐pump inhibitor, metronidazole, and levofloxacin, could be considered in patients of H. pylori‐associated peptic ulcer complications if oral medicine cannot be provided.
Datasets for reporting of soft‐tissue sarcoma: recommendations from the International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR)
Authors: Dei Tos Angelo Paolo , Webster Fleur , Agaimy Abbas , Bovée Judith , Dickson Brendan , Doyle Leona , Dry Sarah , Gronchi Alessandro , Hameed Meera , Hemmings Chris , Liegl‐Atzwanger Bernadette , Thway Khin , Wagner Andrew J , Wang Jian , Yoshida Akihiko , Fletcher Christopher
Published: January 2023

Aims

Soft‐tissue tumours are rare and both accurate diagnosis and proper treatment represent a global challenge. Current treatment guidelines also recommend review by specialised pathologists. Here we report on international consensus‐based datasets for the pathology reporting of biopsy and resection specimens of soft‐tissue sarcomas. The datasets were produced under the auspices of the International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR), a global alliance of international pathology and cancer organisations.

Methods and results

According to the ICCR's guidelines for dataset development, an international expert panel consisting of pathologists, a surgical oncologist, and a medical oncologist produced a set of core and noncore data items for biopsy and resection specimens based on a critical review and discussion of current evidence. All professionals involved were subspecialised soft‐tissue sarcoma experts and affiliated with tertiary referral centres. Commentary was provided for each data item to explain the rationale for selecting it as a core or noncore element, its clinical relevance, and to highlight potential areas of disagreement or lack of evidence, in which case a consensus position was formulated. Following international public consultation, the documents were finalised and ratified, and the datasets, which included a synoptic reporting guide, were published on the ICCR website.

Conclusion

These first international datasets for soft‐tissue sarcomas are aimed to promote high‐quality, standardised pathology reporting. Their adoption will improve consistency of reporting, facilitate multidisciplinary communication, and enhance comparability of data, all of which will help to improve patient's management.
Wnt3a promotes odonto/osteogenic differentiation in vitro and tertiary dentin formation in a rat model
Authors: Sukarawan Waleerat , Rattanawarawipa Panarat , Yaemkleebbua Kamonwan , Nowwarote Nunthawan , Pavasant Prasit , Limjeerajarus Chalida Nakalekha , Osathanon Thanaphum
Published: January 2023

Aim

To investigate the effect of Wnt3a on odonto/osteogenic differentiation of stem cells isolated from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) and reparative dentine formation in a rat model.

Methodology

Stem cells isolated from human exfoliated deciduous teeth were cultured in media with Wnt3a (50–200 ng/ml). Wnt activation was confirmed by β‐catenin immunocytochemistry. Colony‐forming unit assay (normalized percentage area), osteogenic gene expression analysis by real‐time polymerase chain reaction and mineralization assays measured by the absorption at 540 nm were performed. Tertiary dentine formation in vivo was evaluated using 8‐week‐old, male Wistar rats. Cavities with pinpoint pulp exposure by a sharp instrument were prepared at the mesial surface of the first molars. Teeth were divided into (n = 6): (1) distilled water (negative control), (2) phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS), (3) lithium chloride in DI (20 μM), and (4) Wnt3a in PBS (200 ng/ml). Collagen sponge was used as a scaffold. The cavity was sealed with glass ionomer restoration. Four weeks later, animals were euthanized by sodium pentobarbital (120 mg/kg body weight). Hard tissue formation was evaluated using micro‐computerized tomography. Sixty consecutive slides from the initial plane were analysed and calculated as bone/dentine volume per total tissue volume. Paraffin sections (2 μm) were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome for morphological evaluation. Data are presented as the mean ± standard error. Mann–Whitney U test was used for two‐group comparison. Kruskal Wallis followed by pairwise comparison was employed for three or more group comparisons. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 7. Differences were considered significant at p < .05.

Results

Wnt3a decreased SHEDs colony formation and increased OSX, BMP2, and DMP1 expression, corresponding to an increase in mineralization. Additionally, a significant increase in dentine/bone volume per total tissue volume was observed in Wnt3a treated defects. Dentine bridge formation at the exposure sites treated with Wnt3a demonstrated, while fibrous tissues were observed in the control.

Conclusions

Wnt3a suppressed proliferation, increased osteogenic differentiation of SHEDs and promotes tertiary dentine formation. Wnt3a could be utilized as biological molecule for vital pulp therapy.
Informed consent in dermatology: a narrative review
Authors: Hengy Meredith , Hewitt Marlee , Dekany Victoria , Bedford‐Lyon Nastassja , Daveluy Steven
Published: January 2023

Informed consent is a legal and ethical obligation of healthcare providers, and there are several steps that must be followed for informed consent to be obtained. Numerous challenges exist to obtaining informed consent including gaps in health literacy, language barriers, impaired decision‐making capacity, and inadequacy of informed consent forms. Dermatologists must understand the importance and process for obtaining informed consent to protect patients as well as avoid litigation. This narrative review provides an overview of the process of obtaining informed consent, insight into the top challenges that clinicians may face with suggested recommendations, and a brief review of litigation from improper consent among dermatologists.
Adverse selection in cryptocurrency markets
Authors: Tiniç Murat , Sensoy Ahmet , Akyildirim Erdinc , Corbet Shaen
Published: January 2023

In this article we investigate the influence that information asymmetry may have on future volatility, liquidity, market toxicity, and returns within cryptocurrency markets. We use the adverse‐selection component of the effective spread as a proxy for overall information asymmetry. Using order and trade data from the Bitfinex exchange, we first document statistically significant adverse‐selection costs for major cryptocurrencies. Also, our results suggest that adverse‐selection costs, on average, correspond to 10% of the estimated effective spread, indicating an economically significant impact of adverse‐selection risk on transaction costs in cryptocurrency markets. Finally, we document that adverse‐selection costs are important predictors of intraday volatility, liquidity, market toxicity, and returns.
A review of methods to trace material flows into final products in dynamic material flow analysis: From industry shipments in physical units to monetary input–output tables, Part 1
Authors: Streeck Jan , Pauliuk Stefan , Wieland Hanspeter , Wiedenhofer Dominik
Published: January 2023

Dynamic material flow analysis (dMFA) is widely used to model stock‐flow dynamics. To appropriately represent material lifetimes, recycling potentials, and service provision, dMFA requires data about the allocation of economy‐wide material consumption to different end‐use products or sectors, that is, the different product stocks, in which material consumption accumulates. Previous estimates of this allocation only cover few years, countries, and product groups. Recently, several new methods for estimating end‐use product allocation in dMFA were proposed, which so far lack systematic comparison. We review and systematize five methods for tracing material consumption into end‐use products in inflow‐driven dMFA and discuss their strengths and limitations. Widely used data on industry shipments in physical units have low spatio‐temporal coverage, which limits their applicability across countries and years. Monetary input–output tables (MIOTs) are widely available and their economy‐wide coverage makes them a valuable source to approximate material end‐uses. We find four distinct MIOT‐based methods: consumption‐based, waste input–output MFA (WIO‐MFA), Ghosh absorbing Markov chain, and partial Ghosh. We show that when applied to a given MIOT, the methods’ underlying input–output models yield the same results, with the exception of the partial Ghosh method, which involves simplifications. For practical applications, the MIOT system boundary must be aligned to those of dMFA, which involves the removal of service flows, sector (dis)aggregation, and re‐defining specific intermediate outputs as final demand. Theoretically, WIO‐MFA, applied to a modified MIOT, produces the most accurate results as it excludes massless and waste transactions. In part 2 of this work, we compare methods empirically and suggest improvements for aligning MIOT‐dMFA system boundaries.
Brain magnetic resonance spectroscopy to differentiate recurrent neoplasm from radiation necrosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Aseel Almusaedi , McCarthy Peter , Mohammed Alsaddi
Published: January 2023

Background and Purpose

Postradiation treatment necrosis is one of the most serious late sequelae and appears within 6 months. The magnetic resonance spectroscopy imaging (MRSI) has been used for the detection of brain tumors. The study aimed to determine the radiological accuracy and efficacy in distinguishing recurrent brain tumor from radiation‐induced necrosis by identifying pseudoprogression.

Methods

The research was performed in accordance with the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta‐analysis guidelines. International electronic databases including 15 English sources were investigated. A total of 4281 papers with 2159 citations from 15 databases from 2011 to 2021 met the search strategies of magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy in recurrent brain tumors and postradiation necrosis.

Results

Nine studies were enrolled in the meta‐analysis with a total of 354 patients (203 male and 151 female) whose average age ranged from 4 to 74 years. Anbarloui et al., Elias et al., Nemattalla et al., Smith et al., Zeng et al., and Weybright et al. showed strong evidence of heterogeneity regarding choline/N‐acetylaspartate (Cho/NAA) ratio in the evaluation of the nine studies. Elias et al., Nemattalla et al., Bobek‐Billewicz et al., and Smith et al. showed a high heterogeneity in Cho/creatine (Cr) ratio. Elias et al., Nemattalla et al., Smith et al., and Weybright et al. revealed high heterogeneity in NAA/Cr ratio estimates.

Conclusion

MR spectroscopy is effective in distinguishing recurrent brain tumors from necrosis. Our meta‐analysis revealed that Cho/NAA, Cho/Cr, and NAA/Cr ratios were significantly better predictor of detected recurrent tumor. Therefore, the MRSI is an informative tool in the distinction of tumor recurrence versus necrosis.
Hellenes and Romans: Oppositional characterological figures and the enregisterment of Istanbul Greek
Authors: Hadodo Matthew John
Published: January 2023

Language users discursively circulate ideologies of identity, especially in stances taken while assigning social characteristics to enregistered personae. Previous research has demonstrated that with the Istanbul Greek (IG) diaspora, speakers use the emic terms of Ellines and Romioi to orient to or away from Mainland Greeks, respectively. In this paper, I discuss how IGs in Turkey relate such ethnonyms to linguistic features and how they rely on enregistered dialectal features to construct their ethnicity as Romioi in opposition to Ellines. These ethnonyms result in personae that are used stylistically, but in turn fractally (re)create differentiation into separate ethnic categories. Such sociolinguistic processes demonstrate how linguistic variation is socially embedded in a minoritized indigenous speech community. Studying variation in concert with ethnonym use shows how speakers add nuanced meaning to established identity categories and create new ones based on their lived experiences.
How to Trace a Causal Process
Authors: Gallow J. Dmitri
Published: January 2023

According to the theory developed here, we may trace out the processes emanating from a cause in such a way that any consequence lying along one of these processes counts as an effect of the cause. This theory gives intuitive verdicts in a diverse range of problem cases from the literature. Its claims about causation will never be retracted when we include additional variables in our model. And it validates some plausible principles about causation, including Sartorio's ‘Causes as Difference Makers’ principle and Hitchcock's ‘Principle of Sufficient Reason’.
Grounding identity in existence
Authors: Rubenstein Ezra
Published: January 2023

What grounds the facts about what is identical to/distinct from what? A natural answer is: the facts about what exists. Despite its prima facie appeal, this view has received surprisingly little attention in the literature. Moreover, those who have discussed it have been inclined to reject it because of the following important challenge: why should the existence of some individuals ground their identity in some cases and their distinctness in others? (Burgess 2012, Shumener 2020b). This paper offers a sustained defense of the view. The first half provides some positive motivations in terms of other natural principles involving ground. The second half considers various ways of distilling the challenge into a precise objection to the view, and argues that none of the resulting objections proves persuasive.
An R2R3‐MYB network modulates stem strength by regulating lignin biosynthesis and secondary cell wall thickening in herbaceous peony
Authors: Tang Yuhan , Lu Lili , Sheng Zhipeng , Zhao Daqiu , Tao Jun
Published: January 2023

Stem strength is an important agronomic trait affecting plant lodging, and plays an essential role in the quality and yield of plants. Thickened secondary cell walls in stems provide mechanical strength that allows plants to stand upright, but the regulatory mechanism of secondary cell wall thickening and stem strength in cut flowers remains unclear. In this study, first, a total of 11 non‐redundant Paeonia lactiflora R2R3‐MYBs related to stem strength were identified and isolated from cut‐flower herbaceous peony, among which PlMYB43, PlMYB83 and PlMYB103 were the most upregulated differentially expressed genes. Then, the expression characteristics revealed that these three R2R3‐MYBs were specifically expressed in stems and acted as transcriptional activators. Next, biological function verification showed that these P. lactiflora R2R3‐MYBs positively regulated stem strength, secondary cell wall thickness and lignin deposition. Furthermore, yeast‐one‐hybrid and dual luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that they could bind to the promoter of caffeic acid O‐methyltransferase gene (PlCOMT2) and/or laccase gene (PlLAC4), two key genes involved in lignin biosynthesis. In addition, the function of PlLAC4 in increasing lignin deposition was confirmed by virus‐induced gene silencing and overexpression. Moreover, PlMYB83 could also act as a transcriptional activator of PlMYB43. The findings of the study propose a regulatory network of R2R3‐MYBs modulating lignin biosynthesis and secondary cell wall thickening for improving stem lodging resistance, and provide a resource for molecular genetic engineering breeding of cut flowers.
Lifelong exposure to high‐altitude hypoxia in humans is associated with improved redox homeostasis and structural–functional adaptations of the neurovascular unit
Authors: Stacey Benjamin S. , Hoiland Ryan L. , Caldwell Hannah G. , Howe Connor A. , Vermeulen Tyler , Tymko Michael M. , Vizcardo‐Galindo Gustavo A. , Bermudez Daniella , Figueroa‐Mujíica Rómulo J. , Gasho Christopher , Tuaillon Edouard , Hirtz Christophe , Lehmann Sylvain , Marchi Nicola , Tsukamoto Hayato , Villafuerte Francisco C. , Ainslie Philip N. , Bailey Damian M.
Published: January 2023

High‐altitude (HA) hypoxia may alter the structural–functional integrity of the neurovascular unit (NVU). Herein, we compared male lowlanders (n = 9) at sea level (SL) and after 14 days acclimatization to 4300 m (chronic HA) in Cerro de Pasco (CdP), Péru (HA), against sex‐, age‐ and body mass index‐matched healthy highlanders (n = 9) native to CdP (lifelong HA). Venous blood was assayed for serum proteins reflecting NVU integrity, in addition to free radicals and nitric oxide (NO). Regional cerebral blood flow (CBF) was examined in conjunction with cerebral substrate delivery, dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA), cerebrovascular reactivity to carbon dioxide (CVRCO2) and neurovascular coupling (NVC). Psychomotor tests were employed to examine cognitive function. Compared to lowlanders at SL, highlanders exhibited elevated basal plasma and red blood cell NO bioavailability, improved anterior and posterior dCA, elevated anterior CVRCO2 and preserved cerebral substrate delivery, NVC and cognition. In highlanders, S100B, neurofilament light‐chain (NF‐L) and T‐tau were consistently lower and cognition comparable to lowlanders following chronic‐HA. These findings highlight novel integrated adaptations towards regulation of the NVU in highlanders that may represent a neuroprotective phenotype underpinning successful adaptation to the lifelong stress of HA hypoxia.

image

Key points

High‐altitude (HA) hypoxia has the potential to alter the structural–functional integrity of the neurovascular unit (NVU) in humans.

For the first time, we examined to what extent chronic and lifelong hypoxia impacts multimodal biomarkers reflecting NVU structure and function in lowlanders and native Andean highlanders.

Despite lowlanders presenting with a reduction in systemic oxidative–nitrosative stress and maintained cerebral bioenergetics and cerebrovascular function during chronic hypoxia, there was evidence for increased axonal injury and cognitive impairment.

Compared to lowlanders at sea level, highlanders exhibited elevated vascular NO bioavailability, improved dynamic regulatory capacity and cerebrovascular reactivity, comparable cerebral substrate delivery and neurovascular coupling, and maintained cognition. Unlike lowlanders following chronic HA, highlanders presented with lower concentrations of S100B, neurofilament light chain and total tau.

These findings highlight novel integrated adaptations towards the regulation of the NVU in highlanders that may represent a neuroprotective phenotype underpinning successful adaptation to the lifelong stress of HA hypoxia.
“Storylistening” in the science policy ecosystem
Authors: Craig Claire , Dillon Sarah
Published: January 2023

Expert analysis of narrative can complement and strengthen scientific evidence
Stereodynamical control of the H + HD → H
2
+ D reaction through HD reagent alignment
Authors: Wang Yufeng , Huang Jiayu , Wang Wei , Du Tianyu , Xie Yurun , Ma Yuxin , Xiao Chunlei , Zhang Zhaojun , Zhang Dong H. , Yang Xueming
Published: January 2023

Prealigning nonpolar reacting molecules leads to large stereodynamical effects because of their weak steering interaction en route to the reaction barrier. However, experimental limitations in preparing aligned molecules efficiently have hindered the investigation of steric effects in bimolecular reactions involving hydrogen. Here, we report a high-resolution crossed-beam study of the reaction H + HD(
v
= 1,
j
= 2) → H
2
(
v
′,
j
′) + D at collision energies of 0.50, 1.20, and 2.07 electron volts in which the vibrationally excited hydrogen deuteride (HD) molecules were prepared in two collision configurations, with their bond preferentially aligned parallel and perpendicular to the relative velocity of collision partners. Notable stereodynamical effects in differential cross sections were observed. Quantum dynamics calculations revealed that strong constructive interference in the perpendicular configuration plays an important role in the stereodynamical effects observed.
Surge in illegal river mining revealed in global survey
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: January 2023

Satellites show how mining has muddied waters in 173 tropical rivers
A Nuclear Export Signal in KHNYN Required for Its Antiviral Activity Evolved as ZAP Emerged in Tetrapods
Authors: Lista Maria J. , Ficarelli Mattia , Wilson Harry , Kmiec Dorota , Youle Rebecca L. , Wanford Joseph , Winstone Helena , Odendall Charlotte , Taylor Ian A. , Neil Stuart J. D. , Swanson Chad M.
Published: January 2023

The interferon system is part of the innate immune response that inhibits viruses and other pathogens. This system emerged approximately 500 million years ago in early vertebrates.
Isolation and Characterization of Distinct Rotavirus A in Bat and Rodent Hosts
Authors: Kishimoto Mai , Kajihara Masahiro , Tabata Koshiro , Itakura Yukari , Toba Shinsuke , Ozono Seiya , Sato Yuko , Suzuki Tadaki , Ito Naoto , Changula Katendi , Qiu Yongjin , Mori-Kajihara Akina , Eto Yoshiki , Harima Hayato , Mwizabi Daniel , Hang’ombe Bernard M. , Hall William W. , Takada Ayato , Orba Yasuko , Sawa Hirofumi , Sasaki Michihito
Published: January 2023

Recent advances in nucleotide sequence detection methods have enabled the detection of RVA genomes from various animals. These studies have discovered multiple divergent RVAs and have resulted in proposals for the genetic classification of novel genotypes.
Whole-Genome Sequence of a Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Isolate from Tap Water in an Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Zainulabid Ummu Afeera , Siew Shing Wei , Musa Siti Munirah , Soffian Sharmeen Nellisa , Periyasamy Petrick , Ahmad Hajar Fauzan
Published: January 2023

Here, we present a 4,508,936-bp complete genome sequence of
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
strain HW002Y, which was isolated from the tap water in an intensive care unit at Sultan Ahmad Shah Medical Centre at the International Islamic University of Malaysia (Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia). Sequencing was performed using a Nanopore Flongle flow cell.
Histone H3K4 Methyltransferase PeSet1 Regulates Colonization, Patulin Biosynthesis, and Stress Responses of
Penicillium expansum
Authors: Xu Xiaodi , Chen Yong , Li Boqiang , Tian Shiping
Published: January 2023

Penicillium expansum
is one of the most important plant fungal pathogens, which not only causes blue mold rot in various fruits, leading to huge decay losses, but also produces mycotoxin patulin, posing a threat to human health. Both pathogenesis and patulin biosynthesis in
P. expansum
are regulated by complex and sophisticated networks.
The Candida glabrata Parent Strain Trap: How Phenotypic Diversity Affects Metabolic Fitness and Host Interactions
Authors: Usher Jane , Ribeiro Gabriela F. , Childers Delma S.
Published: January 2023

Reference strains provide essential insights into the mechanisms underlying virulence in fungal pathogens. However, recent studies in
Candida albicans
and other species have revealed significant genotypic and phenotypic diversity within clinical isolates that are challenging paradigms regarding key virulence factors and their regulation.
Candida glabrata
is the second leading cause of candidiasis, and many studies use BG2 or CBS138 for their investigations.
Determination of the Superconducting Order Parameter of BaFe1.92Ni0.08As2 Weakly Underdoped Pnictides by Two Complementary Techniques
Authors: Sadakov A. V. , Muratov A. V. , Kuzmichev S. A. , Sobolevskiy O. A. , Massalimov B. I. , Prishchepa A. R. , Mikhailov V. M. , Pervakov K. S. , Vlasenko V. A. , Kuzmicheva T. E.
Published: January 2023

The structure of the superconducting order parameter of weakly underdoped BaFe1.92Ni0.08As2 pnictides with the critical temperature Tc ≈ 18.2 K has been determined. Two microscopic superconducting order parameters—the small superconducting gap ΔS(0) and, supposedly, the edges of the large gap with anisotropy in the ab plane $$\Delta _{{\text{L}}}^{{{\text{out}}}}(0)$$ and $$\Delta _{{\text{L}}}^{{{\text{in}}}}(0)$$—have been determined at T ≪ Tc, together with their temperature dependences, using incoherent multiple Andreev reflection spectroscopy. It has been shown that the determined temperature dependence of the lower critical field Hc1(T) can be described in the two-band approximation both within the so-called alpha model (using experimental ΔS(0), $$\Delta _{{\text{L}}}^{{{\text{out}}}}(0)$$, and $$\Delta _{{\text{L}}}^{{{\text{in}}}}(0)$$ values) and using the temperature dependences ΔS(T) and $$\Delta _{{\text{L}}}^{{{\text{out}}{\text{,in}}}}(T)$$ obtained by multiple Andreev reflection spectroscopy under the assumption of a fairly strong anisotropy of the small superconducting gap, where the experimental ΔS(0) value is taken as the outer edge of its angular distribution.
Two-Dimensional Yukawa System: The Behavior of Defects near the Melting Region
Authors: Klumov B. A.
Published: January 2023

The behavior of defects and defect clusters near the melting region of a two-dimensional Yukawa system is considered in a wide range of the screening parameter κ. The concentration of defects, their size distribution, and some other characteristics are found to be quasi-universal and independent of the κ value. Simple indicators of melting are proposed for close-packed two-dimensional systems.
Sound-like Oscillations in the Polar Phase of Superfluid 3He in a Nematic Aerogel
Authors: Surovtsev E. V.
Published: January 2023

The acoustic spectrum of the polar phase of superfluid 3He in nematic aerogel has been studied. An equation determining the dispersion of sound oscillations of the system has been derived. Solutions of the system have been obtained for low-frequency oscillations, whose propagation velocity is much lower than the speed of first sound in pure 3He, for directions along and across the anisotropy axis of the aerogel. In the same approximation, a solution for purely shear oscillations of the system has been found under special boundary conditions corresponding to an incompressible liquid surrounding the system. The temperature dependence of the found frequencies has been compared with the existing experimental data.
Vitamin B12deficiency presenting with a pancytopenia in pregnancy
Authors: Dunphy Louise , Tang Ai-Wei
Published: January 2023

Vitamin B12deficiency is a significant public health problem globally. Although it is a well-known cause of macrocytic anaemia and in advanced cases, pancytopenia, there remains a relative paucity of cases reported in pregnancy. It is associated with an increased risk of pregnancy complications and adverse birth outcomes such as neural tube defects, preterm birth, low birth weight, neurological sequelae and intrauterine death. It has a predilection for individuals aged >60 years. It has been implicated in a spectrum of neuropsychiatric disorders and it may also exert indirect cardiovascular effects. Severe vitamin B12deficiency may present with haematological abnormalities that mimic thrombotic microangiopathy such as HELLP syndrome (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets) or it may present as pseudothrombotic microangiopathy (Moschcowitz syndrome) characterised by anaemia, thrombocytopenia and schistocytosis. It can also closely mimic thrombotic thrombocytopenia purpura, hence posing a diagnostic challenge to the unwary physician. Serological measurement of vitamin B12levels confirms the diagnosis. Oral supplementation with vitamin B12remains a safe and effective treatment. The authors describe the case of a multiparous woman in her late 20s presenting with a plethora of non-specific symptoms at 29+5weeks’ gestation. Her haemoglobin was 45 g/L, platelets 32×109/L, vitamin B12<150 ng/L and serum folate <2 µg/L. She was not a vegetarian, but her diet lacked nutrition. Following parenteral B12supplementation, her haematological parameters improved. The pregnancy was carried to term. Due to the plethora of non-specific symptoms, the diagnosis can be challenging to establish. Adverse maternal or fetal outcomes may occur. Folic acid supplementation may mask an occult vitamin B12deficiency and further exacerbate or initiate neurological disease.
Exploring the wider societal impacts of sexual health issues and interventions to build a framework for research and policy: a qualitative study based on in-depth semi-structured interviews with experts in OECD member countries
Authors: Schnitzler Lena , Paulus Aggie T G , Roberts Tracy E , Evers Silvia M A A , Jackson Louise J
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Sexual health is a complex public health challenge and can generate wide-ranging health, social and economic impacts both within and beyond the health sector (ie, intersectoral costs and benefits). Methods are needed to capture these intersectoral impacts in economic studies to optimally inform policy/decision-making. The objectives of this study were (1) to explore the different intersectoral costs and benefits associated with sexual health issues and interventions, (2) to categorise these into sectors and (3) to develop a preliminary framework to better understand these impacts and to guide future research and policy.

Design

A qualitative study based on in-depth semi-structured online interviews.

Setting

OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) member countries.

Participants

Professionals with expertise in the field of sexual health including clinicians, medical practitioners, sexologists, researchers, professionals working for international governmental or non-governmental health (policy) organisations and professionals involved in implementation and/or evaluation of sexual health interventions/programmes.

Methods

Sampling of participants was undertaken purposively. We conducted in-depth semi-structured online interviews to allow for a systemic coverage of key topics and for new ideas to emerge. We applied a Framework approach for thematic data analysis.

Results

28 experts were interviewed. Six themes emerged from the interviews: (1) Interconnections to other areas of health (ie, reproductive health, mental health), (2) Relationships and family, (3) Productivity and labour, (4) Education, (5) Criminal justice/sexual violence, (6) Housing, addiction and other sectors. The findings confirm that sexual health is complex and can generate wide-ranging impacts on other areas of health and other non-health sectors of society.

Conclusion

These different sectors need to be considered when evaluating interventions and making policy decisions. The preliminary framework can help guide future research and policy/decision-making. Future research could explore additional sectors not covered in this study and expand the preliminary framework.