bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oncomodulin Regulates Spontaneous Calcium Signaling and Maturation of Afferent Innervation in Cochlear Outer Hair Cells
Authors: Yang Yang , Murtha Kaitlin , Climer Leslie K. , Ceriani Federico , Thompson Pierce , Hornak Aubrey J. , Marcotti Walter , Simmons Dwayne D.
Published: March 2023

Cochlear outer hair cells (OHCs) are responsible for the exquisite frequency selectivity and sensitivity of mammalian hearing. During development, the maturation of OHC afferent connectivity is refined by coordinated spontaneous Ca2+activity in both sensory and non-sensory cells. Calcium signaling in neonatal OHCs can be modulated by Oncomodulin (OCM, β-parvalbumin), an EF-hand calcium-binding protein. Here, we investigated whether OCM regulates OHC spontaneous Ca2+activity and afferent connectivity during development. Using a genetically encoded Ca2+sensor (GCaMP6s) expressed in OHCs in wild-type (Ocm+/+) and Ocm knockout (Ocm-/-) littermates, we found increased spontaneous Ca2+activity and upregulation of purinergic receptors in OHCs from GCaMP6s Ocm-/-cochlea immediately following birth. The afferent synaptic maturation of OHCs was delayed in the absence of OCM, leading to an increased number of ribbon synapses and afferent fibers on GCaMP6s Ocm-/-OHCs before hearing onset. We propose that OCM regulates the spontaneous Ca2+signaling in the developing cochlea and the maturation of OHC afferent innervation.
Dissociable neuronal substrates of visual feature attention and working memory
Authors: Mendoza-Halliday Diego , Xu Haoran , Azevedo Frederico A.C. , Desimone Robert
Published: March 2023

Attention and working memory (WM) are distinct cognitive functions, yet given their close interactions, it has been proposed that they share the same neuronal mechanisms. Here we show that in macaques performing a WM-guided feature attention task, the activity of most neurons in areas middle temporal (MT), medial superior temporal (MST), lateral intraparietal (LIP), and posterior lateral prefrontal cortex (LPFC-p) displays either WM coding or attentional modulation, but not both. One area thought to play a role in both functions is LPFC-p. To test this, we optogenetically inactivated LPFC-p bilaterally during the attention or WM periods of the task. Attention period inactivation reduced attentional modulation in LPFC-p, MST, and LIP neurons, and impaired task performance. WM period inactivation did not affect attentional modulation nor performance, and minimally reduced WM coding. Our results suggest that feature attention and WM have dissociable neuronal substrates, and that LPFC-p plays a critical role in attention but not WM.
Beyond Hearing Loss: Ageing as a Tinnitus Risk Factor
Authors: Reisinger L. , Schmidt F. , Benz K. , Vignali L. , Rösch S. , Kronbichler M. , Weisz N.
Published: March 2023

Background

Tinnitus affects 10 to 15 percent of the population, but its underlying causes are not yet fully understood. Hearing loss has been established as the most important risk factor. Ageing is also known to accompany increased prevalence, however, the risk is normally seen as a consequence of (age-related) hearing loss. Whether ageing per se is a risk factor has not yet been established. We specifically focused on the effect of ageing and the relationship between age, hearing loss and tinnitus.

Methods

We used two samples for our analyses. The first, exploratory analyses, comprised 2249 Austrian individuals. The second included data from 16008 people, drawn from a publicly available dataset (NHANES). We used logistic regressions to investigate the effect of age on tinnitus.

Findings

In both samples, ageing per se was found to be a significant predictor of tinnitus. In the more decisive NHANES sample, an interaction effect was observed as well. Odds ratio analyses show that per unit increase of hearing loss the odds of reporting tinnitus is higher in older people (1.06 vs 1.03).

Interpretation

Expanding previous findings of hearing loss as the main risk factor for tinnitus, we established ageing as a risk factor in its own right. Underlying mechanisms remain unclear, and this work calls for urgent research efforts to link biological ageing processes, hearing loss and tinnitus. We therefore suggest a novel working hypothesis that integrates these aspects from an ageing brain viewpoint.

Funding

Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG; BRIDGE 1 project “SmartCIs,” 871232) and Land Salzburg (“Hidden Hearing Loss”, 20204-WISS/225/288/4-2021).
The selective estrogen receptor modulator clomiphene inhibits sterol biosynthesis inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Wang Qing , De Vriese Kjell , Desmet Sandrien , Pollier Jacob , Lu Qing , Goossens Alain , Geelen Danny , Russinova Eugenia , Goeminne Geert , Beeckman Tom , Vanneste Steffen
Published: March 2023

Sterols are produced via complex, multistep biosynthetic pathways involving similar enzymatic conversions in plants, animals and fungi, yielding a variety of sterol metabolites with slightly different chemical properties to exert diverse and specific functions. The role of plant sterols has been studied in the context of cell biological processes, signaling and overall plant development, mainly based on mutants. Due to their essential nature, genetic interference with their function causes pleiotropic developmental defects. An important alternative is to use a pharmacological approach. However, the current toolset for manipulating sterol biosynthesis in plants remains limited. Here, we probed a collection of inhibitors of mammalian cholesterol biosynthesis to identify new inhibitors of plant sterol biosynthesis. We provide evidence that imidazole-type fungicides, bifonazole, clotrimazole and econazole inhibit the obtusifoliol 14α-demethylase CYP51, that is highly conserved among eukaryotes. Surprisingly, we found that the selective estrogen receptor modulator, clomiphene, inhibits sterol biosynthesis, in part by inhibiting the plant-specific cyclopropyl-cycloisomerase CPI1. These results demonstrate that rescreening of the animal sterol biosynthesis pharmacology is an easy approach for identifying novel inhibitors of plant sterol biosynthesis. Such molecules can be used as entry points for the development of plant-specific inhibitors of sterol biosynthesis that can be used in agriculture.
EdU and Immunofluorescence Staining ofNothobranchius furzeriOrganotypic Cultures
Authors: Bagnoli Sara , Terzibasi Tozzini Eva , Cellerino Alessandro
Published: March 2023

Immunofluorescence is a widely used technique to visualize the localization of proteins of interest. Nucleoside analogs, such as 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU), are incorporated into newly synthesized DNA and enable permanent labeling of newly divided cells. Both these techniques can be applied to long-term organotypic culture ofNothobranchius furzeriin a fashion similar to that already described for tissue sections. We report here our optimized method for immunofluorescence and EdU staining ofN. furzeriorganotypic slices.
The Analysis of Aversive Olfactory–Taste Learning and Memory inDrosophilaLarvae
Authors: Weber Denise , Richter Vincent , Rohwedder Astrid , Großjohann Alexandra , Thum Andreas S.
Published: March 2023

Drosophilalarvae are able to associate an odor stimulus with a temporally overlapping teaching signal encoding reward or punishment. Here, we describe a standardized experimental setup that allows the analysis of larval aversive-odor–taste learning and memory. This is a Pavlovian learning experiment with a single training trial in which larvae are presented with two specific odors in succession, one odor together with salt at a high concentration that is harmful to the larva. In the subsequent test, the trained larvae then show avoidance of the salt-paired odor and spend more time near the unpaired odor. To rule out nonassociative effects (such as naive preferences for odors, exposure, or handling effects), two independent groups of larvae are reciprocally trained. Subsequently, the average of the two individual preference values is determined and quantified as a Performance Index (PI), which assigns a numerical value to the larvae's shown behavioral change.
GCaMP Imaging in Mosquitoes: Central Nervous System
Authors: Zhao Zhilei , Weiss Lukas , McBride Carolyn S.
Published: March 2023

Mosquitoes spread dengue, Zika, malaria, and other pathogens to hundreds of millions of people every year. A better understanding of mosquito behavior and its underlying neural mechanisms may lead to new control strategies, but such an understanding requires the development of tools and approaches for exploring the nervous system of key vector species. For example, we can now image neural activity in mosquito brains using genetically encoded calcium sensors like GCaMP. Compared with other types of neural recording, GCaMP imaging has the advantage of allowing one to record from many neurons simultaneously and/or to record from specific neuronal types. Successful implementation requires careful consideration of many factors, including the choice of microscope and how to make the brains of experimental animals visible and stable while minimizing damage. Here, we elaborate on these points and provide a concise introduction to GCaMP imaging in the mosquito central nervous system.
Learning and Memory inDrosophilaLarvae
Authors: Weber Denise , Richter Vincent , Rohwedder Astrid , Großjohann Alexandra , Thum Andreas S.
Published: March 2023

TheDrosophilalarva has become an attractive model system for studying fundamental questions in neuroscience. Although the focus was initially on topics such as the structure of genes, mechanisms of inheritance, genetic regulation of development, and the function and physiology of ion channels, today it is often on the cellular and molecular principles of naive and learned behavior.Drosophilalarvae have developed different mechanisms, often widespread in similar manifestations in the animal kingdom, to orient themselves toward olfactory, gustatory, mechanosensory, thermal, and visual stimuli to coordinate their locomotion appropriately. To adapt to changes in the environment, larvae are able to learn to categorize some of these sensory impressions as “good” or “bad.” Depending on their relevance and reliability, the larva learns them and constantly updates these memories. Laboratory experiments allow us to parametrically study and describe many of these processes (e.g., olfactory appetitive and aversive memory or visual appetitive and aversive memory). Combining behavioral tests with various neurogenetic techniques allows us to thermally or optogenetically activate or inhibit individual cells during learning, memory consolidation, and memory retrieval. The molecular and genetic bases of larval learning can be analyzed by using specific mutants. The CRISPR–Cas method has established extensive new directions in this area, in addition to the already wide-ranging traditional approaches, like theGAL4/UASsystem. The combination of these genetic methods with the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the introduced behavioral assay provides a platform for discovering the fundamental mechanisms underlying learning and memory formation in the rather simple larval brain.
The heterometallic one-dimensional solvated coordination polymer [NiPt2Cl6(TRIP-Py)4]
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Authors: Gildenast Hans , Gruszien Lukas , Englert Ulli
Published: March 2023

The ditopic ligand 10-[4-(pyridin-4-yl)phenyl]-9-phospha-10-silatriptycene (TRIP-Py, C29H20NPSi) binds as a pyridine donor to NiII and as a phosphatriptycene donor towards PtII. The selectivity relies entirely on the Pearson character of the donor sites and the matching hardness of the respective metal cations. The product is the one-dimensional coordination polymer catena-poly[[[dichloridonickel(II)]-bis{μ-10-[4-(pyridin-4-yl)phenyl]-9-phospha-10-silatriptycene}-bis[dichloridoplatinum(II)]-bis{μ-10-[4-(pyridin-4-yl)phenyl]-9-phospha-10-silatriptycene}] dichloromethane pentasolvate ethanol icosasolvate], {[NiPt2Cl6(TRIP-Py)4]·5CH2Cl2·20EtOH}
n
(1), which retains large pores due to the inherent rigidity of the ligand. This is enabled by the caged triptycene scaffold which fixes the direction of the phosphorus donor with respect to the remaining molecule and especially the pyridyl moiety. In its crystal structure, which was determined from synchrotron data, the pores of the polymer are filled with dichloromethane and ethanol molecules. Finding a suitable model for the pore content is complicated as it is too disordered to give a reasonable atomic model but too ordered to be described by an electron gas solvent mask. This article presents an in-depth description of this polymer, as well as a discussion on the use of the bypass algorithm for solvent masks.
University students' perceptions of teaching during lockdown period in Spain: a qualitative study
Authors: Gajardo Katherine , Lobo de Diego Félix , Campos Cancino Guillermo Alejandro , Díez-Gutiérrez Enrique-Javier
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The study aims to provide relevant information on the educational processes experienced by university students in Spain during the period of compulsory confinement. To this end, the key factors of the emergency educational model implemented by the country's universities have been analysed.

Design/methodology/approach

The study investigated, through qualitative, exploratory research and 30 in-depth interviews, how university students have lived the process of change to alternative forms of education during the crisis, what training experiences stand out and what factors related to virtual education they identify as relevant keys.

Findings

Participants usually focus on three main topics: (1) The impacts of changes in training development with regard to methodologies and forms of assessment; (2) The facilities and difficulties in this new modality of online training; and (3) The consequences of the crisis on higher education in the medium and long term.

Originality/value

Students participating in the study offer relevant and critical information on the adaptations developed by Spanish universities during the Coronavirus crisis. This information can be fundamental for the conscious decision making of the institutions, so that they can develop educational processes more adequate to the needs and possibilities of the university students in times of crisis.
Promoting concern for team members in Indian enterprises through personal interaction: mediating through a preference for teamwork and co-worker support
Authors: Dutta Anjali , Rangnekar Santosh
Published: March 2023

Purpose

What motivates employees to show concern for their team or in-group members, and why is it vital to prefer teamwork and receive support from co-workers at the workplace? Given the significance of social relations in the workplace and drawing from social exchange theory, the present study seeks to examine the association between personal interaction with concern for team members by identifying preference for teamwork and co-worker support (CWS) mediating the relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The data of 261 collected from employees working in varying public and private sector Indian enterprises were analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis, Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) and Hayes PROCESS macro to investigate the multiple mediation analysis.

Findings

The findings showed a positive relationship between personal interaction and concern for the team member, which elaborates that increasing personal interaction among employees tends to display concern for their team members. Moreover, teamwork preference and CWS mediated the relationship, demonstrating that preferring teamwork and receiving support from co-workers, the propensity to concern for team members is influenced by personal interaction.

Practical implications

This research pinpoints how personal interaction among members may develop a feeling of belongingness, leading to concern for their team members. With the inclusion of employees in teamwork and creating a cordial work environment, employees prefer working in groups and teams; they may feel responsible for their group and its members, ultimately helping improve the organization's human capital.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the employee and organizational development by unveiling how employees may develop cordial social relationships through personal interaction, preferring teamwork and CWS.
Imprint of tree species mycorrhizal association on microbial‐mediated enzyme activity and stoichiometry
Authors: Zheng Haifeng , Phillips Richard P. , Rousk Johannes , Yue Kai , Schmidt Inger Kappel , Peng Yan , Wang Senhao , Vesterdal Lars
Published: March 2023

Understanding the effects of tree species and their mycorrhizal association on soil processes is critical for predicting the ecosystem consequences of species shifts owing to global change and forest management decisions. While it is well established that forests dominated by different mycorrhizal types can vary in how they cycle carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), the degree to which these patterns are driven by microbial‐mediated enzyme activity (EA) and ecoenzymatic stoichiometry (ES) remains elusive.

Here, we synthesized the effects of mycorrhizal association on seven soil enzymes involved in microbial C, N and P acquisition and ES using data from 56 peer‐reviewed papers.

We found that relative to soil in ectomycorrhizal (EcM) trees, soil in arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) trees exhibited greater activity of some C acquisition enzymes (e.g. beta‐glucosidase; BG) and higher ecoenzymatic ratios of BG/NAG (N‐acetyl‐glucosaminidase) and BG/AP (acid phosphatase). These results supported that AM trees had rapid C and nutrient turnover rates, inorganic nutrient economics and high soil microbial C limitation. We also found evidence for an organic nutrient economy and greater soil microbial demand for nutrients in EcM trees compared to AM trees. In addition, the effect of mycorrhizal association on the activity of certain soil enzymes and enzymatic stoichiometry (i.e. BG and BG/NAG ratio) appeared to be associated with the differences in soil pH, phylogenetic group (i.e. conifers and broadleaves) and leaf habit (i.e. evergreen and deciduous) between AM and EcM trees.

The results from the global meta‐analysis suggested that soil EA and ES appear to play critical roles in shaping the differences in the nutrient economy between AM and EcM tree species, but leaf morphology and soil conditions should be considered in evaluations of soil processes in forests of different mycorrhizal associations. Given that most of the studies in the database were from the temperate and subtropical regions, further research in other biomes is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms driving the mycorrhizal effect at the global scale.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Mercury isotope clocks predict coastal residency and migration timing of hammerhead sharks
Authors: Besnard Lucien , Lucca Brandyn M. , Shipley Oliver N. , Le Croizier Gaël , Martínez‐Rincón Raúl O. , Sonke Jeroen E. , Point David , Galván‐Magaña Felipe , Kraffe Edouard , Kwon Sae Yun , Schaal Gauthier
Published: March 2023

The management of migratory taxa relies on the knowledge of their movements. Among them, ontogenetic habitat shift, from nurseries to adult habitats, is a behavioural trait shared across marine taxa allowing resource partitioning between life stages and reducing predation risk. As this movement is consistent over time, characterizing its timing is critical to implement efficient management plans, notably in coastal areas to mitigate the impact of fisheries on juvenile stocks.

In the Mexican Pacific, habitat use of the smooth hammerhead shark (Sphyrna zygaena) is poorly described, while the species is heavily harvested. Given the large uncertainties associated with the timing of out‐migration from coastal nursery grounds to offshore waters prior to reproductive maturity, a more precise assessment of smooth hammerhead shark movements is needed.

Photochemical degradation of mercury imparts mass‐independent isotope fractionation (Δ199Hg) which can be used to discriminate between neonate coastal shallow habitats and the offshore deep foraging patterns of late juveniles. Here, we present the application of muscle Δ199Hg as molecular clocks to predict the timing of ontogenetic habitat shifts by smooth hammerhead sharks, based on their isotopic compositions at the initial and arrival habitats and on muscle isotopic turnover rate.

We observed decreases in Δ199Hg values with shark body length, reflecting increasing reliance on offshore mesopelagic prey with age. Coastal residency estimates indicated that smooth hammerhead sharks utilize coastal resources for 2 years prior to offshore migration, suggesting a prolonged residency in these ecosystems.

Policy implications. This study demonstrates how mercury stable isotopes and isotopic clocks can be implemented as a complementary tool for stock management by predicting the timing of animal migration—a key aspect in the conservation of marine taxa. In the Mexican Pacific, fishing pressure on shark species occurs in coastal habitats depleting juvenile stocks. Consequently, management decision support tools are imperative for effectively maintaining early life stage population levels over time. The finding that smooth hammerhead sharks extensively rely on highly fished habitats for 2 years after parturition supports the relevance of establishing a size limit in coastal fisheries and demonstrates how the current temporal shark fishing closure could lack efficiency for the species.
Chemoreceptors from the commensal gut Roseburia rectibacter bind to mucin and trigger chemotaxis
Authors: Chen Hong‐He , Wang Yu‐Xin , Li De‐Feng , Liu Chang , Bi Shuang‐Yu , Jiang Cheng‐Ying , Liu Shuang‐Jiang
Published: March 2023

Chemotaxis is crucial for bacterial adherence and colonization of the host gastrointestinal tract. Previous studies have demonstrated that chemotaxis affects the virulence of causative pathogens and the infection in the host. However, the chemotactic abilities of non‐pathogenic and commensal gut bacteria have rarely been explored. We observed that Roseburia rectibacter NSJ‐69 exhibited flagella‐dependent motility and chemotaxis to a variety of molecules, including mucin and propionate. A genome‐wide analysis revealed that NSJ‐69 has 28 putative chemoreceptors, 15 of which have periplasmic ligand‐binding domains (LBDs). These LBD‐coding genes were chemically synthesized and expressed heterologously in Escherichia coli. Intensive screening of ligands revealed four chemoreceptors bound to mucin and two bound to propionate. When expressed in Comamonas testosteroni or E. coli, these chemoreceptors elicited chemotaxis toward mucin and propionate. Hybrid chemoreceptors were constructed, and results showed that the chemotactic responses to mucin and propionate were dependent on the LBDs of R. rectibacter chemoreceptors. Our study identified and characterized R. rectibacter chemoreceptors. These results will facilitate further investigations on the involvement of microbial chemotaxis in host colonization.
Diagnosis or prognosis? An umbrella review of mid‐trimester cervical length and spontaneous preterm birth
Authors: Hughes Kelly , Ford Heather , Thangaratinam Shakila , Brennecke Shaun , Mol Ben W. , Wang Rui
Published: March 2023

Background

Cervical length is widely used to assess a woman's risk of spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB).

Objectives

To summarise and critically appraise the evidence from systematic reviews on the prognostic capacity of transvaginal sonographic cervical length in the second trimester in asymptomatic women with singleton or twin pregnancy.

Search strategy

Searches were performed in Medline, Embase, CINAHL and grey literature from 1 January 1995 to 6 July 2021, including keywords ‘cervical length’, ‘preterm birth’, ‘obstetric labour, premature’, ‘review’ and others, without language restriction.

Selection criteria

We included systematic reviews including women who did not receive treatments to reduce SPTB risk.

Data collection and analysis

From 2472 articles, 14 systematic reviews were included. Summary statistics were independently extracted by two reviewers, tabulated and analysed descriptively. The ROBIS tool was used to evaluate risk of bias of included systematic reviews.

Main results

Twelve reviews performed meta‐analyses: two were reported as systematic reviews of prognostic factor studies, ten used diagnostic test accuracy methodology. Ten systematic reviews were at high or unclear risk of bias. Meta‐analyses reported up to 80 combinations of cervical length, gestational age at measurement and definition of preterm birth. Cervical length was consistently associated with SPTB, with a likelihood ratio for a positive test of 1.70–142.

Conclusions

The ability of cervical length to predict SPTB is a prognostic research question; systematic reviews typically analysed diagnostic test accuracy. Individual participant data meta‐analysis using prognostic factor research methods is recommended to better quantify how well transvaginal ultrasonographic cervical length can predict SPTB.
Functional and physicochemical properties of protein from giant squid (Dosidicus gigas) extracted using foam‐aided pH‐shift processing
Authors: López‐Medina Francisco Antonio , Dublán‐García Octavio , Morachis‐Valdez Ana Gabriela , Gómez‐Oliván Leobardo Manuel , Islas‐Flores Hariz , Hernández‐Navarro María Dolores
Published: March 2023

Jumbo squid (Dosidicus gigas) is a commercially valuable mollusk in Mexico; 80% of its body is edible. Despite the high protein content (∼18%) and low cholesterol content of this species, its high proteolytic activity (microbial and endogenous enzymes) induces protein degradation and consequent reduction in functional properties from a structural viewpoint. Gelation capacity (texture profile of the gels obtained), solubility, water holding capacity, foaming capacity, emulsification capacity, and emulsion stability were evaluated in protein concentrates obtained by foam‐aided pH‐shift processing: (A) myofibrillar protein extraction with distilled water and no pH‐shifting; (B) alkaline solubilization and isoelectric precipitation; (C) acidic solubilization and isoelectric precipitation; and (D) process A and isoelectric precipitation. Process B showed superior gelation capacity, D had high emulsion stability across a wide range of pH values (4.0–8.0) and C lower plate counts of aerobic mesophilic. Therefore, all three alternative extraction processes showed techno‐functional advantages.

Practical Application

Jumbo squid is an abundant protein source in México, most of which is exported. Functional and physicochemical properties of muscle protein were improved by pH‐shift processing. The recovered protein showed modifications of technological properties, using one of the methods described can lead to produce a protein extract with the most desirable attributes, such as foaming, emulsifying, or gelling capacities. The functional and physicochemical properties of protein from squid can be enhanced by selecting a certain pH‐shift processing, depending on the desirable use. There is a broad perspective on the use of these protein extracts as ingredients or additives.
Come hybrid or high water: Making the case for a Green–Gray approach toward resilient urban stormwater management
Authors: Hendricks Marccus D. , Dowtin Asia L.
Published: March 2023

120 years or more of unsustainable urban development has damaged the natural environment and disrupted essential ways to stabilize water body overflow and even mitigate pluvial flooding. In light of catastrophic flooding that has occurred globally, a renewed commitment to transforming built surfaces and incorporating more green infrastructures (GIs) has emerged. In fact, one could argue that an overcommitment to GI is being touted in the literature, but largely disconnected from more real‐world possibilities, considering all things. In this commentary, we make the case that as cities transition from development patterns of the past and even considering climate‐induced storm characteristics of the future, a hybridized solution (e.g., Green–Gray) should be considered. Smaller approaches to urban greening have been implemented in areas that need larger‐scale restorations, thus proving to be insufficient. Likewise, the uncertainty surrounding rainfall and storm events has forced us to be more strategically balanced in our efforts to achieve resilience in our stormwater infrastructure. Hybridized solutions that include a diverse set of systems, anchored in local conditions, position us best for effective urban stormwater management. In the absence of such solutions, runoff volumes will continue to rise, flooding will prevail, and disenfranchised communities will remain disproportionately impacted by these impacts of urbanization.
The need for constructing endangered fish habitats that conform to climate‐driven flow changes in a western U.S. river
Authors: Valdez Richard A. , Cunningham Colleen , Effati Ali , Freeman Deborah L.
Published: March 2023

Warmwater fish habitat in the San Juan River of the southwestern United States has been reduced by over 30% as a result of water depletion, reservoir inundation, and cold‐water dam releases combined with drought‐related changes in hydrology. This reduction and a suite of other factors have contributed to declines in native fish populations including the federally endangered Colorado Pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus lucius) and Razorback Sucker (Xyrauchen texanus). Conservation efforts for these species include determining flow needs; protecting, managing, and augmenting habitats; and stocking hatchery fish. But the young of stocked fish have low survival due largely to a paucity of nursery habitat not being reformed and maintained under current conditions. Flow recommendations for Navajo Dam releases designed to mimic the river's natural hydrograph have not been met due to water shortages, and the desired outcomes of increased channel complexity and enhanced fish habitat have not been observed. Forecasted hydrology that includes ongoing drought shows that achieving the flow targets through further dam reoperations is unlikely. Mechanical construction of early life‐stage habitats is a highly recommended complement to flow management for offsetting the effects of flow reduction and habitat loss. Habitats with features that are effective and resilient under a range of flows are important in counterbalancing the effects of climate change.
Mucolipidosis: A mimicker of juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Chopra Sanya , Maheshwari Anu , Verma Anju , Kannepalli Ashok , Mahto Deonath
Published: March 2023

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common form of chronic arthritis in children and at times misdiagnosed in those presenting with arthropathy secondary to non‐inflammatory causes. The overlap of symptoms often pose a diagnostic challenge for clinicians. This mostly results in a delayed diagnosis subjecting children to unnecessary use of long‐term immunosuppressants and disease‐modifying drugs. We present the case of a 9‐year‐old boy who was previously misdiagnosed as a case of juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Detailed evaluation later led to the diagnosis of mucolipidosis (type III) which was confirmed on genetic testing. Emphasis on detailed history and clinical examination including the subtle hints like lack of signs of inflammation, family history, no morning stiffness and normal inflammatory markers should be picked up to make a timely diagnosis. In today's era of genetic testing and diagnosis, it is prudent to offer these tests for such patients to make an accurate diagnosis and prognosticate them for the long‐term outcome.
Pain in individuals with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, other systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases, and without rheumatic diseases: A report from the COVAD study
Authors: Shinjo Samuel Katsuyuki , Kim Minchul , Hoff Leonardo Santos , Missé Rafael Giovani , Sen Parikshit , Naveen R. , Day Jessica , Cordeiro Rafael Alves , Júnior Jucier Gonçalves , Chatterjee Tulika , Lilleker James B. , Agarwal Vishwesh , Kardes Sinan , Milchert Marcin , Gheita Tamer , Salim Babur , Velikova Tsvetelina , Gracia‐Ramos Abraham Edgar , Parodis Ioannis , O'Callaghan Albert Selva , Nikiphorou Elena , Makol Ashima , Tan Ai Lyn , Cavagna Lorenzo , Saavedra Miguel A. , Ziade Nelly , Knitza Johannes , Kuwana Masataka , Nune Arvind , Distler Oliver , Chinoy Hector , Agarwal Vikas , Aggarwal Rohit , Gupta Latika ,   COVAD Study Group
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To compare pain intensity among individuals with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs), other systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs), and without rheumatic disease (wAIDs).

Methods

Data were collected from the COVID‐19 Vaccination in Autoimmune Diseases (COVAD) study, an international cross‐sectional online survey, from December 2020 to August 2021. Pain experienced in the preceding week was assessed using numeral rating scale (NRS). We performed a negative binomial regression analysis to assess pain in IIMs subtypes and whether demographics, disease activity, general health status, and physical function had an impact on pain scores.

Results

Of 6988 participants included, 15.1% had IIMs, 27.9% had other AIRDs, and 57.0% were wAIDs. The median pain NRS in patients with IIMs, other AIRDs, and wAIDs were 2.0 (interquartile range [IQR] = 1.0–5.0), 3.0 (IQR = 1.0–6.0), and 1.0 (IQR = 0–2.0), respectively (P < 0.001). Regression analysis adjusted for gender, age, and ethnicity revealed that overlap myositis and antisynthetase syndrome had the highest pain (NRS = 4.0, 95% CI = 3.5–4.5, and NRS = 3.6, 95% CI = 3.1–4.1, respectively). An additional association between pain and poor functional status was observed in all groups. Female gender was associated with higher pain scores in almost all scenarios. Increasing age was associated with higher pain NRS scores in some scenarios of disease activity, and Asian and Hispanic ethnicities had reduced pain scores in some functional status scenarios.

Conclusion

Patients with IIMs reported higher pain levels than wAIDs, but less than patients with other AIRDs. Pain is a disabling manifestation of IIMs and is associated with a poor functional status.
MitoGeneExtractor: Efficient extraction of mitochondrial genes from next‐generation sequencing libraries
Authors: Brasseur Marie V. , Astrin Jonas J. , Geiger Matthias F. , Mayer Christoph
Published: March 2023

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences are often found as byproducts in next‐generation sequencing (NGS) datasets that were originally created to capture genomic or transcriptomic information of an organism. These mtDNA sequences are often discarded, wasting this valuable sequencing information.

We developed MitoGeneExtractor, an innovative tool which allows to extract mitochondrial protein coding genes (PCGs) of interest from NGS libraries through multiple sequence alignments of sequencing reads to amino acid references. General references, for example on order level are sufficient for mining mitochondrial PCGs. In a case study, we applied MitoGeneExtractor to recently published genomic datasets of 1993 birds and were able to extract complete or nearly complete sequences for all 13 mitochondrial PCGs for a large proportion of libraries. Compared to an existing assembly guided sequence reconstruction algorithm, MitoGeneExtractor was faster and substantially more sensitive.

We compared COI sequences mined with MitoGeneExtractor to COI databases. Mined sequences show a high sequence similarity and correct taxonomic assignment between the recovered sequence and the assigned morphospecies in most samples. In some cases of incongruent taxonomic assignments, we found evidence for contamination in NGS libraries.

MitoGeneExtractor allows a fast extraction of mitochondrial PCGs from a wide range of NGS datasets. We recommend to routinely harvest and curate mitochondrial sequence information from genomic resources. MitoGeneExtractor output can be used to identify contaminated NGS libraries and to validate the species identity of the sequenced animal based on the extracted COI sequences.
Does Earnings Quality Influence Corporate Social Responsibility Performance? Empirical Evidence of the Causal Link
Authors: Bose Sudipta , Yu Chuan
Published: March 2023

The study examines the causal links between earnings quality and corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance using a large sample of United States (US) firms from 1992 to 2013. We first find that the association between earnings quality and CSR performance is positive and significant. We then test the flow of causality using Granger's (1969) lead–lag analysis to determine whether changes in earnings quality cause changes in CSR performance or vice versa. Our findings show that changes in earnings quality cause changes in a firm's CSR performance but not vice versa. Further analysis shows that earnings quality reduces the cost of equity capital for firms with higher CSR performance. These findings suggest that one plausible means by which firms with higher earnings quality can maintain better CSR performance is to reduce their cost of equity capital.
Personalized risk communication and opioid prescribing in association with nonprescribed opioid use: A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nguemeni Tiako Max Jordan , Shofer Frances , Dolan Abby , Goldberg Erica B. , Rhodes Karin V. , Hess Erik P. , Bellamkonda Venkatesh R. , Perrone Jeanmarie , Cannuscio Carolyn C. , Becker Lance , Rodgers Melissa A. , Zyla Michael M. , Bell Jeffrey J. , McCollum Sharon , Engel‐Rebitzer Eden , Schapira Marilyn M. , Meisel Zachary F.
Published: March 2023

Background

To determine the impact of personalized risk communication and opioid prescribing on nonprescribed opioid use, we conducted a secondary analysis of randomized controlled trial participants followed prospectively for 90 days after an emergency department (ED) visit for acute back or kidney stone pain.

Methods

A total of 1301 individuals were randomized during an encounter at four academic EDs into a probabilistic risk tool (PRT) arm, a narrative‐enhanced PRT arm, or a general risk information arm (control). In this secondary analysis, both risk tool arms were combined and compared with the control arm. We used logistic regressions to determine associations between receiving personalized risk information, receiving an opioid prescription in the ED, and nonprescribed opioid use in general and by race.

Results

Complete follow‐up data were available for 851 participants; 23.3% (n = 198) were prescribed opioids (34.2% of White vs. 11.6% of Black participants, p < 0.001). Fifty‐six (6.6%) participants used nonprescribed opioids. Participants in the personalized risk communication arms had lower nonprescribed opioid use odds (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.4–0.83). Black versus White participants had greater nonprescribed opioid use odds (aOR 3.47, 95% CI 2.05–5.87, p < 0.001). Black participants who were prescribed opioids had a lower marginal probability of using nonprescribed opioids versus those who were not (0.06, 95% CI 0.04–0.08, p < 0.001 vs. 0.10, 95% CI 0.08–0.11, p < 0.001). The absolute risk difference in nonprescribed opioid use for Black and White participants, respectively, in the risk communication versus the control arm, was 9.7% and 0.1% (relative risk ratio 0.43 vs. 0.95).

Conclusions

Among Black but not White participants, personalized opioid risk communication and opioid prescribing were associated with lower odds of nonprescribed opioid use. Our findings suggest that racial disparities in opioid prescribing—which have been previously described within the context of this trial—may paradoxically increase nonprescribed opioid use. Personalized risk communication may effectively reduce nonprescribed opioid use, and future research should be designed specifically to explore this possibility in a larger cohort.
Central markers of neuroinflammation in alcohol use disorder: A meta‐analysis of neuroimaging, cerebral spinal fluid, and postmortem studies
Authors: Adams Claire , Perry Nina , Conigrave James , Hurzeler Tristan , Stevens Julia , Yacou Dunbar Kristiane P. , Sweeney Alicia , Lee Kylie , Sutherland Greg , Haber Paul , Morley Kirsten C.
Published: March 2023

Introduction and aims

There is emerging evidence that heavy long‐term alcohol consumption may alter the neuroimmune profile. We conducted a meta‐analysis of the association between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and the extent of neuroinflammation using cerebrospinal (CSF), PET (Positron Emission Tomography), and postmortem studies.

Design and methods

A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis Protocols (PRISMA‐P) for AUD‐related terms in combination with neuroinflammatory markers and cytokine‐ and chemokine‐related terms for CSF, PET, and postmortem studies. Participants had to meet established criteria for AUD and/or heavy alcohol consumption with dependence features and be compared with healthy controls. Papers retrieved were assessed for inclusion criteria and a critical appraisal was completed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. A meta‐analysis was conducted on postmortem and PET studies.

Results

Eleven papers met the inclusion criteria with CSF, PET, and postmortem studies included in the final analysis. Postmortem studies demonstrate significant heterogeneity (𝑄 (14) = 62.02, 𝑝 < 0.001), with the alcohol group showing higher levels of neuroimmune markers than controls (𝑑 = 1.50 [95% CI 0.56, 2.45]). PET studies demonstrated a lower [11C] PBR28 total volume of distribution (V
T) for translocator protein in the hippocampus (g = −1.95 [95% CI −2.72, −1.18], p < 0.001) of the alcohol group compared to controls.

Conclusion

There is emerging evidence across multiple diagnostic modalities that alcohol impacts neuroimmune signaling in the human brain.
Sex differences in the relation between military sexual trauma and risk for alcohol misuse among U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard soldiers
Authors: Fillo Jennifer , Anderson Goodell Erin M. , Homish D. Lynn , Homish Gregory G.
Published: March 2023

Background

Military sexual trauma (MST) is linked to a range of deleterious health outcomes. Extant literature has focused disproportionately on mental health sequelae of MST. Research is needed to better understand the extent to which MST contributes to alcohol misuse and related problems ‐ key issues facing service members. Additionally, sex differences in the nature and prevalence of MST may impact sequelae. The present research examined (a) the prevalence of an MST history among female and male service members, (b) relations between MST history and risk for alcohol misuse and related problems, and (c) potential sex differences in these experiences and outcomes.

Methods

Data from current and previous service members (334 males and 70 females) were drawn from Operation: SAFETY (Soldiers and Families Excelling Through the Years), a longitudinal study of U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard (USAR/NG) soldiers and their partners. Analyses examined the prevalence and types of MST experienced, relations between MST history and three alcohol‐related variables (total consumption, heavy drinking frequency, and alcohol‐related problems), and differences by sex.

Results

Approximately one‐third (33.7%) of service members reported an MST history. Females (61.4%) reported an MST history at more than twice the rate of males (27.8%). Interactions between MST and sex were significant for all alcohol‐related variables. Among males, an MST history was related to 70% higher alcohol consumption, 86% higher heavy drinking frequency, and 45% higher alcohol problem scores. An MST history was unrelated to alcohol‐related variables among females.

Conclusion

Findings suggest a higher prevalence of MST among USAR/NG service members than is often reported in the literature, particularly among males. An MST history was associated with higher and more hazardous/harmful current alcohol consumption among male service members, highlighting the need for greater screening, prevention, and intervention among a population already at high risk for problematic alcohol use. Results underscore that MST is an important and prevalent experience requiring greater study alongside more traditional notions of service‐connected trauma.
Surgical, survival and quality of life outcomes in over 1000 pelvic exenterations: lessons learned from a large Australian case series
Authors: Steffens Daniel , Solomon Michael J. , Lee Peter , Austin Kirk , Koh Cherry , Byrne Christopher , Karunaratne Sascha , Hatcher Sophie , Taylor Kiera , McBride Kate
Published: March 2023

Background

To determine surgical, survival and quality of life outcomes across different tumour streams and lessons learned over 28 years.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing pelvic exenteration at a single, high volume, referral hospital, between 1994 and 2022 were included. Patients were grouped according to their tumour type at presentation as follows, advanced primary rectal cancer, other advanced primary malignancy, locally recurrent rectal cancer, other locally recurrent malignancy and non‐malignant indications. The main outcomes included, resection margins, postoperative morbidity, long‐term overall survival, and quality of life outcomes. Non‐parametric statistics and survival analyses were performed to compare outcomes between groups.

Results

Of the 1023 pelvic exenterations performed, 981 (95.9%) unique patients were included. Most patients underwent pelvic exenteration due to locally recurrent rectal cancer (N = 321, 32.7%) or advanced primary rectal cancer (N = 286, 29.2%). The rates of clear surgical margins (89.2%; P < 0.001) and 30‐days mortality were higher in the advanced primary rectal cancer group (3.2%; P = 0.025). The 5‐year overall survival rates were 66.3% in advanced primary rectal cancer and 44.6% in locally recurrent rectal cancer. Quality of life outcomes differed across groups at baseline, but generally had good trajectories thereafter. International benchmarking revelled excellent comparative outcomes.

Conclusions

The results of this study demonstrate excellent outcomes overall, but significant differences in surgical, survival and quality of life outcomes across patients undergoing pelvic exenteration due to different tumour streams. The data reported in this manuscript can be utilized by other centres as benchmarking as well as proving both subjective and objective outcome details to support informed decision‐making for patients.