bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of plant and fruit traits on the structure of bird seed dispersal networks in different disturbed habitats
Authors: WANG Zheng , TAI Wei , ZHANG Xuan , LIU Shouguo , NIU Yixing , CHEN Wenwen , LI Ning
Published: March 2024

Species functional traits can influence seed dispersal processes and consequently affect species' role in the mutualistic network. Although the effect of animal traits on the structure of the seed dispersal network is well explored, it remains poorly understood how plant and fruit traits contribute to the structure. We here studied the effects of plant and fruit traits on the structure of bird seed dispersal networks across different disturbed habitats in the Meihua Mountain National Nature Reserve, Southeastern China. During the study period, 16, 20, 13, and 15 bird species were recorded foraging on 10, 11, 12, and 8 plant species, resulting in 511, 312, 265, and 201 foraging events in the protected forest, natural forest, village, and bamboo forest, respectively. The composition of these seed dispersal networks is not primarily influenced by a specific group of bulbul species, but rather by the presence of an endangered plant species, Taxus chinensis. As we expected, the structure of the four networks was different among the four disturbed habitats. Furthermore, our results also showed tree height and canopy density were the most important plant traits for structuring the seed dispersal network, while sugar, amylase, dry matter, and alkaloids were identified as significant fruit traits. Overall, our findings highlight the value of integrating trait‐based ecology into the framework of the seed dispersal network and provide new insights for mutualistic network conservation in disturbed habitats.
Ultrafine grinding improves the nutritional, physicochemical, and antioxidant activities of two varieties of whole‐grain highland barley
Authors: Liu Lu , Xu Jingwen , Zhang Ge , Gao Nisi , Xu Xuebing , Zhao Renyong
Published: March 2024

Effects of ultrafine grinding on the nutritional profile, physicochemical properties, and antioxidant activities of whole‐grain highland barley (HB) including white highland barley (WHB) and black highland barley (BHB) were studied. Whole‐grain HB was regularly ground and sieved through 80 mesh get 80 M powder, and HB was ultrafine grounded and sieved through 80 mesh, 150 mesh, and 200 mesh get 80UMM, 150UMM, and 200UMM samples. Particle size of WHB and BHB reduced significantly after ultrafine grinding. As the particle size decreased, moisture content of WHB and BHB decreased significantly, whereas fat content increased significantly. Redistribution of fiber components in WHB and BHB from insoluble to soluble fractions was also observed. Wherein, content of soluble pentosan of WHB and BHB increased significantly from 0.56% and 0.78% (80 M) to 0.91% and 1.14% (200UMM), respectively. Damaged starch of WHB and BHB increased significantly from 8.16% and 8.21% (80 M) to 10.29% and 10.07% (200UMM), respectively. Content of phenolic acid and flavonoid of WHB and BHB and associated antioxidant capacity were increased after ultrafine grinding. Color of L* value increased significantly, a* and b* values decreased significantly, indicating the whiteness of WHB and BHB was increased after ultrafine grinding. Pasting temperature of WHB and BHB decreased, whereas peak viscosity increased. X‐ray diffraction patterns of HB showed typical A‐ and V‐style polymorphs and the relative crystallinity of HB decreased as the particle size decreased. Taken together, ultrafine grinding has shown great potential in improving the nutritional, physiochemical, and antioxidant properties of whole‐grain HB. Our research findings could help better understand the ultrafine grinded whole grain HB in food industry.
Effect of protein–polysaccharide hybrid gelator system on the material properties and 3D extrusion printability of mashed potatoes
Authors: Li Yan , Cheng Zhi , Zhang Jianyou , Xu Shengke , Cai Yanping , Ding Yuting , Lyu Fei
Published: March 2024

Mashed potatoes (MP) are famous as ready‐to‐eat products due to their excellent taste and texture. Problems such as complex injection occur when MP is used as a 3D printing material. To improve the smoothness of MP loading into a 3D syringe barrel and its 3D extrusion printability, the effects of the protein–polysaccharide hybrid gelator developed with different gelatin‐B (GB, 2%, 4%, 6%) and κ‐carrageenan (KG, 1%) on the rheology and 3D extrusion printability of MP were studied. The rheological results showed that the MP developed a glass transition temperature by adding the hybrid gelator. Adding 1% KG+6% GB (w/w, dry base) to the hybrid gelator has good shear thinning and self‐supporting properties and showed the best geometric accuracy. In the extrusion stage, the yield stress, the consistency index (K), and the flow behavior index (n) of MP were 470.69 Pa, 313.48 Pa·sn, and 0.159, respectively. In the recovery stage, the shear recovery time is 30 s. In the self‐supporting stage, the storage modulus and loss modulus are significantly higher than those of other groups and have the strongest mechanical properties. Moreover, water distribution, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction analysis, and microstructure of printed MP with different hybrid gelators were observed. The addition of hybrid gelators reduced the content of free water in MP. Hybrid gelators did not produce new functional groups in the printed materials and did not change the structure of starch. These results provide new insights for applying protein and polysaccharide hybrid gelators in 3D printing.
Availability and properties of commercially produced food products offered in European public universities: A North–South comparison
Authors: Martinez‐Perez Naiara , Torheim Liv Elin , Arroyo‐Izaga Marta
Published: March 2024

To date, there are no studies that have compared university food environments (FEs) with different sociocultural contexts. Therefore, we analyzed differences in the availability and properties of commercially produced foods, in a northern and a southern European university (located in Norway and Spain, respectively). A cross‐sectional observational study was conducted at OsloMet—Oslo Metropolitan University and at the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU. The nutritional quality of food products was estimated through the following nutrient profiling models (NPMs): those proposed by the Spanish Agency for Consumer Affairs, Food Safety and Nutrition (AECOSAN), the UK nutrient profiling model (UK NPM), the Norwegian Food and Drink Industry Professional Practices Committee (Matbransjens Fagligle Utvalg [MFU]), and a combination of them. In addition, food items were classified using the NOVA system. A total of 251 and 1051 products were identified at OsloMet and the UPV/EHU, respectively. The percentage categorized as low nutritional quality (LNQ) was higher at the UPV/EHU (almost 54.5% of the total products) compared with at OsloMet (almost 40%) (p < 0.001). Most of the products were categorized as ultra‐processed, and there were no differences in the percentage of ultra‐processed foods between the two universities (OsloMet 86.1%, UPV/EHU 83.3%, p > 0.05). A higher proportion of LNQ products was found at the UPV/EHU than at OsloMet, probably due to the government policies and actions for creating healthy FEs. Consequently, there is a need to develop interventions to improve the FE at the UPV/EHU, adapted to its sociocultural context.

Practical Application

This study reveals north–south differences in terms of the availability of low nutritional quality food products. In particular, a higher proportion of this type of product was found at the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU than at OsloMet—Oslo Metropolitan University. Our exploratory hypothesis is that this phenomenon is a consequence of the Nordic government policies that have great potential to create healthy FEs.
Investigation of the peptides with calcium chelating capacity in hydrolysate derived from spent hen meat
Authors: Liu Xiao‐Chen , Wei Xinyan , Skibsted Leif H. , Tomasevic Igor , Yao Xianqi , Wang Wei , Sun Weizheng
Published: March 2024

Calcium peptide chelates are developed as efficient supplements for preventing calcium deficiency. Spent hen meat (SHM) contains a high percentage of proteins but is generally wasted due to the disadvantages such as hard texture. We chose the underutilized SHM to produce peptides to bind calcium by proteolysis and aimed to investigate chelation between calcium and peptides in hydrolysate for a sustainable purpose. The optimized proteolysis conditions calculated from the result of response surface methodology for two‐step hydrolysis were 0.30% (wenzyme/wmeat) for papain with a hydrolysis time of 3.5 h and 0.18% (wenzyme/wmeat) for flavourzyme with a hydrolysis time of 2.8 h. The enzymatic hydrolysate (EH) showed a binding capacity of 63.8 ± 1.8 mg calcium/g protein. Ethanol separation for EH improved the capacity up to a higher value of 68.6 ± 0.6 mg calcium/g protein with a high association constant of 420 M−1 (25°C) indicating high stability. The separated fraction with a higher amount of Glu, Asp, Lys, and Arg had higher calcium‐binding capacity, which was related to the number of ─COOH and ─NH2 groups in peptide side chains according to the result from amino acid analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Two‐step enzymatic hydrolysis and ethanol separation were an efficient combination to produce peptide mixtures derived from SHM with high calcium‐binding capacity. The high percentage of hydrophilic amino acids in the separated fraction was concluded to increase calcium‐binding capacity. This work provides foundations for increasing spent hen utilization and developing calcium peptide chelates based on underutilized meat.
The impact of glucocorticoid use on the outcomes of rheumatoid arthritis in a multicenter ultrasound cohort study
Authors: Nonaka Fumiaki , Fukui Shoichi , Michitsuji Tohru , Endo Yushiro , Nishino Ayako , Shimizu Toshimasa , Umeda Masataka , Sumiyoshi Remi , Koga Tomohiro , Iwamoto Naoki , Origuchi Tomoki , Ueki Yukitaka , Eiraku Nobutaka , Suzuki Takahisa , Okada Akitomo , Matsuoka Naoki , Takaoka Hirokazu , Hamada Hiroaki , Tsuru Tomomi , Arinobu Yojiro , Hidaka Toshihiko , Fujikawa Keita , Yoshitama Tamami , Tada Yoshifumi , Ohtsubo Hideo , Ishizaki Jun , Asano Tomoyuki , Maeda Takahiro , Kawakami Atsushi , Kawashiri Shin‐ya
Published: March 2024

Objective

Glucocorticoids are effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) when used appropriately considering the balance of the risks and benefits, especially at low doses. We aimed to evaluate the response of biologic and targeted synthetic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (b/tsDMARDs) in patients having already been treated with glucocorticoids.

Methods

We reviewed RA patients treated with b/tsDMARDs in a prospective multicenter ultrasound cohort study. We compared the differences in the clinical characteristics at baseline and outcomes at 12 months between the two groups having been treated with and without glucocorticoids at baseline. The differences in the clinical characteristics and the treatments were balanced by the inverse probability weighting (IPW) with the propensity score.

Results

Of 307 patients with RA, 160 patients were treated with glucocorticoids at baseline. The median dose of glucocorticoids was equivalent to 5.0 mg/day of prednisolone. Significant differences were in age and concomitant methotrexate use, composite measures for the disease activity, and the ultrasound grayscale score at baseline. Patients treated with glucocorticoids had less frequent remissions defined by composite measures and ultrasound findings than those treated without glucocorticoids. These significant differences in the achievement of remissions remained robust even after adjusting differences in the clinical characteristics and the treatments between the two groups by IPW.

Conclusion

RA patients treated with glucocorticoids had a higher disease activity at baseline and a poorer response to treatments with b/tsDMARDs than those without glucocorticoids. The states of patients requiring glucocorticoids might be associated with the poor response to the b/tsDMARDs.
Phototrophic Fe(II) oxidation benefits from light/dark cycles
Authors: Nikeleit Verena , Roth Linda , Maisch Markus , Kappler Andreas , Bryce Casey
Published: March 2024

Phototrophic Fe(II)‐oxidizers use Fe(II) as electron donor for CO2 fixation thus linking Fe(II) oxidation, ATP formation, and growth directly to the availability of sunlight. We compared the effect of short (10 h light/14 h dark) and long (2–3 days light/2–3 days dark) light/dark cycles to constant light conditions for the phototrophic Fe(II)‐oxidizer Chlorobium ferrooxidans KoFox. Fe(II) oxidation was completed first in the setup with constant light (9 mM Fe(II) oxidised within 8.9 days) compared to the light/dark cycles but both short and long light/dark cycles showed faster maximum Fe(II) oxidation rates. In the short and long cycle, Fe(II) oxidation rates reached 3.5 ± 1.0 and 2.6 ± 0.3 mM/d, respectively, compared to 2.1 ± 0.3 mM/d in the constant light setup. Maximum Fe(II) oxidation was significantly faster in the short cycle compared to the constant light setup. Cell growth reached roughly equivalent cell numbers across all three light conditions (from 0.2–2.0 × 106 cells/mL to 1.1–1.4 × 108 cells/mL) and took place in both the light and dark phases of incubation. SEM images showed different mineral structures independent of the light setup and 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy confirmed the formation of poorly crystalline Fe(III) oxyhydroxides (such as ferrihydrite) in all three setups. Our results suggest that periods of darkness have a significant impact on phototrophic Fe(II)‐oxidizers and significantly influence rates of Fe(II) oxidation.
Constraints and solutions for development and uptake of integrated pest management in the UK
Authors: Walters Keith F. A. , Parry Geraint , Burnstone Joshua , Grenz Kristina , Collier Rosemary , Bruce Toby
Published: March 2024

Agricultural improvements that reduce conventional pesticide use and support environmental aims are a priority. Current approaches develop promising alternative products but meet significant challenges in bringing them to market. This article reports findings of an Association of Applied Biologists event at which delegates from relevant industry sectors discussed the establishment of an effective integrated pest management innovation system linking multiple stakeholders. Interrelated recommendations were agreed upon, focused on structured gap analysis, co‐design processes reflecting the complete innovation system, the approval process, application equipment, enhancing grower confidence, integrating knowledge exchange activities, promulgation of public good information and the need for an overarching national action plan and supporting legislation.
Prevalence and correlates of ICD‐11 prolonged grief disorder among adults living in Ukraine during the war with Russia
Authors: Redican Enya , Hyland Philip , Shevlin Mark , Martsenkovskyi Dmytro , Karatzias Thanos , Ben‐Ezra Menachem
Published: March 2024

Background

Although high rates of bereavement are evident in war‐affected populations, no study has investigated the prevalence and correlates of probable ICD‐11 prolonged grief disorder (PGD) under these circumstances.

Methods

Participants were 2050 adults who participated in a nationwide survey exploring the effects of the Ukraine‐Russia war on the daily lives and mental health of Ukrainian people.

Results

Of the total sample, 87.7% (n = 1797) of people indicated a lifetime bereavement. In the full sample, 11.4% met the diagnostic requirements for probable ICD‐11 PGD, and amongst those with a lifetime bereavement, the conditional rate of probable ICD‐11 PGD was 13.0%. Significant risk factors of ICD‐11 PGD included the recent loss of a loved one (6 months to a year ago), being most affected by a partner or spouse's death, loved one dying in the war, no recent contact with the deceased prior to their death, and meeting depression and anxiety diagnostic requirements.

Conclusion

The study reveals that a significant percentage of Ukrainian bereaved individuals have probable ICD‐11 PGD, and identifying risk factors, particularly war‐related losses, will aid in the development of intervention and prevention programs for bereaved adults.
Effects of interventions on smoking cessation: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Ying , Gao Lei , Chao Yaqing , Wang Jianhua , Qin Tianci , Zhou Xiaohua , Chen Xiaoan , Hou Lingyu , Lu linlin
Published: March 2024

A network meta‐analysis (NMA) including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to evaluate the effects of different interventions on smoking cessation. Studies were collected from online databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eligible studies were further examined in the NMA to compare the effect of 14 interventions on smoking cessation. Thirty‐four studies were examined in the NMA, including a total of 14 interventions and 28 733 participants. The results showed that health education (HE; odds ratio ([OR] = 200.29, 95% CI [1.62, 24 794.61])), other interventions (OI; OR = 29.79, 95% CI [1.07, 882.17]) and multimodal interventions (MUIs; OR = 100.16, 95% CI [2.06, 4867.24]) were better than self‐help material (SHM). HE (OR = 243.31, 95% CI [1.39, 42531.33]), MUI (OR = 121.67, 95% CI [1.64, 9004.86]) and financial incentive (FI; OR = 14.09, 95% CI [1.21, 164.31]) had positive effects on smoking cessation rate than smoking cessation or quitting APP (QA). Ranking results showed that HE (83.6%) and motivation interviewing (MI; 69.6%) had better short‐term effects on smoking cessation. HE and MUI provided more smoking cessation benefits than SHM and QA. FI was more effective at quitting smoking than QA. Also, HE and MI were more likely to be optimal smoking cessation interventions.
Epigenome‐wide association study on methamphetamine dependence
Authors: Shirai Toshiyuki , Okazaki Satoshi , Tanifuji Takaki , Otsuka Ikuo , Horai Tadasu , Mouri Kentaro , Takemura Yukihiro , Aso Katsuro , Yamamoto Noriya , Hishimoto Akitoyo
Published: March 2024

Repeated abuse of methamphetamine (METH) can cause dependence, repeated relapse of psychotic symptoms, compulsive drug‐seeking behaviour, and various neurological symptoms. These long‐term biological changes may be associated with epigenetic mechanisms; however, the association between METH use and epigenetic mechanisms has been poorly investigated. Thus, we performed an epigenome‐wide association study of METH dependence using genomic DNA extracted from the blood samples of 24 patients with METH dependence and 24 normal controls. All participants were of Japanese descent. We tested the association between METH dependence and DNA methylation using linear regression analysis. We found epigenome‐wide significant associations at four CpG sites, one of which occurred in the CNOT1 gene and another in the PUM1 gene. We especially noted the CNOT1 and PUM1 genes as well as several other genes that indicated some degree of association with METH dependence. Among the relatively enriched Gene Ontology terms, we were interested in terms of mRNA metabolism, respirasome, and excitatory extracellular ligand‐gated ion channel activity. Among the relatively enriched Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome pathways, we noted pathways of several neurological diseases. Our results indicate that genetic changes akin to those in other psychiatric or neurodegenerative disorders may also occur via epigenetic mechanisms in patients with METH dependence.
Paternal preconception alcohol consumption increased Angiotensin II‐mediated vasoconstriction in male offspring cerebral arteries via oxidative stress‐AT1R pathway
Authors: Zhang Ze , Zhang Yumeng , Liu Mingxing , Su Hongyu , He Yun , Zheng Qiutong , Xu Zhice , Tang Jiaqi
Published: March 2024

Alcohol consumption is popular worldwidely and closely associated with cardiovascular diseases. Influences of paternal preconception alcohol consumption on offspring cerebral arteries are largely unknown. Male rats were randomly given alcohol or water before being mated with alcohol‐naive females to produce alcohol‐ and control‐sired offspring. Middle cerebral artery (MCA) was tested with a Danish Myo Technology wire myograph, patch‐clamp, IONOPTIX, immunofluorescence and quantitative PCR. Alcohol consumption enhanced angiotensin II (AngII)‐mediated constriction in male offspring MCA mainly via AT1R. PD123,319 only augmented AngII‐induced constriction in control offspring. AngII and Bay K8644 induced stronger intracellular calcium transient in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from MCA of alcohol offspring. L‐type voltage‐dependent calcium channel (L‐Ca2+) current at baseline and after AngII‐stimulation was higher in VSMCs. Influence of large‐conductance calcium‐activated potassium channel (BKCa) was lower. Caffeine induced stronger constriction and intracellular calcium release in alcohol offspring. Superoxide anion was higher in alcohol MCA than control. Tempol and thenoyltrifluoroacetone alleviated AngII‐mediated contractions, while inhibition was significantly higher in alcohol group. The mitochondria were swollen in alcohol MCA. Despite lower Kcnma1 and Prkce expression, many genes expressions were higher in alcohol group. Hypoxia induced reactive oxygen species production and increased AT1R expression in control MCA and rat aorta smooth muscle cell line. In conclusion, this study firstly demonstrated paternal preconception alcohol potentiated AngII‐mediated vasoconstriction in offspring MCA via ROS‐AT1R. Alcohol consumption increased intracellular calcium via L‐Ca2+ channel and endoplasmic reticulum and decreased BKCa function. The present study provided new information for male reproductive health and developmental origin of cerebrovascular diseases.
Another ghost of Gondwana—Progradungula barringtonensis Michalik & Smith, sp. nov., a new species of the relict spider genus Progradungula (Araneae: Gradungulidae) from a temperate rainforest in eastern Australia
Authors: Michalik Peter , Smith Helen M. , Milledge Graham , Harms Danilo
Published: March 2024

Odd‐clawed spiders (Gradungulinae), which are considered to be ‘living fossils’, are a faunal element of the mesic forests of eastern Australia and the South Island of New Zealand. To date, 16 species in seven genera are known, with most being highly endemic and hard to find, explaining their scarcity in collections worldwide. Particularly noteworthy is the Australian genus Progradungula that includes only two relict species from eastern Australia (Progradungula carraiensis from the Carrai limestone caves in northern New South Wales and Progradungula otwayensis from Nothofagus rainforests in the Otway Range, southern Victoria) and are known from only a handful of adult specimens. Both species are large nocturnal predators with a rather cryptic lifestyle, which construct unique ladder‐like catching webs composed of non‐combed and combed cribellate silk with exceptional properties. Here, we describe a new relict species, Progradungula barringtonensis Michalik & Smith, sp. nov., from isolated Nothofagus forest patches in Barrington Tops National Park (NSW, Australia). The male of this species is significantly larger than those of P. carraiensis and P. otwayensis and exhibits characteristics of the male genitalia of both species. The webs are similar to those of the other Progradungula species. Field observations revealed that the catching ladder had few looping segments, similar to P. otwayensis, but an immature in captivity constructed webs with more looping segments, similar to P. carraiensis, supporting the previously proposed hypothesis that food availability may explain the plasticity of the catching ladder structure.
A new cryptic species of Australian Glyptotermes (Isoptera: Kalotermitidae) discovered by effective use of morphological characteristics of primary reproductives
Authors: Yashiro Toshihisa , Lo Nathan
Published: March 2024

Closely related species within termite genera often show extremely similar morphology, where morphological characteristics of soldiers alone or imagos (including alates and primary reproductives) alone are sometimes insufficient to establish new species. However, many original descriptions of termite species are based on soldier characteristics alone, because of the seasonal occurrence of alates and the difficulty in collecting primary reproductives. Importantly, primary reproductives of the family Kalotermitidae (so‐called drywood termites) are relatively easy to collect from field colonies compared with those of the other termite families. Here, we describe a new kalotermitid species, Glyptotermes matsuurai sp. nov., from Australia by effective use of morphological characteristics of primary reproductives. Glyptotermes matsuurai is distinguished from the Australian species G. iridipennis Froggatt, 1896 by the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit II gene; however, it is not distinguishable from G. iridipennis based on the external morphology of soldiers. It therefore forms a species complex with G. iridipennis. Although we could collect alates of G. matsuurai from only one of the field‐collected colonies kept in the laboratory, we conducted morphological analyses of imagos from multiple colonies by using primary reproductives collected from field colonies. As a result of our morphological analyses of imagos, we found that G. matsuurai is morphologically distinguishable from all other species of Australian Glyptotermes. Thus, when enough alates are unavailable, morphological characteristics of primary reproductives can be used to facilitate the discovery of undescribed cryptic species at least in the genus Glyptotermes and possibly in other genera within the family Kalotermitidae.
Taxonomic revision of Eunanus Ohaus, 1909 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), with first records and two new species from Brazil
Authors: da Silva Ferreira André , Grossi Paschoal C. , Seidel Matthias
Published: March 2024

Eunanus Ohaus, 1909 has so far been known exclusively from Argentina and Paraguay, with only two described species: E. murinus Ohaus, 1909 and E. podtiaguini Gutiérrez, 1951. Here, the genus is revised and redefined, and two new species are described from Brazil: Eunanus kozlovi sp. nov., from Mato Grosso do Sul state, and Eunanus valmorbidai sp. nov., from Rio Grande do Sul state. Furthermore, Leucothyreus beckeri (Martínez, 1964) is transferred to the genus under the new combination Eunanus beckeri (Martínez, 1964) comb. nov. The lectotype of E. murinus Ohaus, 1909 is designated, and an identification key to all the species and a distribution map are provided.
Causal effect of severe and non‐severe malaria on dyslipidemia in African Ancestry individuals: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Traore Mariam , Sangare Harouna , Diabate Oudou , Diawara Abdoulaye , Cissé Cheickna , Nashiru Oyekanmi , Li Jian , Shaffer Jeffrey , Wélé Mamadou , Doumbia Seydou , Chikowore Tinashe , Soremekun Opeyemi , Fatumo Segun
Published: March 2024

Background

Dyslipidemia is becoming prevalent in Africa, where malaria is endemic. Observational studies have documented the long‐term protective effect of malaria on dyslipidemia; however, these study designs are prone to confounding. Therefore, we used Mendelian randomization (MR, a method robust to confounders and reverse causation) to determine the causal effect of severe malaria (SM) and the recurrence of non‐severe malaria (RNM) on lipid traits.

Method

We performed two‐sample MR using genome wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics for recurrent non‐severe malaria (RNM) from a Benin cohort (N = 775) and severe malaria from the MalariaGEN dataset (N = 17,000) and lipid traits from summary‐level data of a meta‐analyzed African lipid GWAS (MALG, N = 24,215) from the African Partnership for Chronic Disease Research (APCDR) (N = 13,612) and the Africa Wits‐IN‐DEPTH partnership for genomics studies (AWI‐Gen) dataset (N = 10,603).

Result

No evidence of significant causal association was obtained between RNM and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), total cholesterol and triglycerides. However, a notable association emerged between severe malarial anaemia (SMA) which is a subtype of severe malaria and reduced HDL‐C levels, suggesting a potential subtype‐specific effect. Nonetheless, we strongly believe that the small sample size likely affects our estimates, warranting cautious interpretation of these results.

Conclusion

Our findings challenge the hypothesis of a broad causal relationship between malaria (both severe and recurrent non‐severe forms) and dyslipidemia. The isolated association with SMA highlights an intriguing area for future research. However, we believe that conducting larger studies to investigate the connection between malaria and dyslipidemia in Africa will enhance our ability to better address the burden posed by both diseases.
Pandora's ballot box: Electoral politics of direct democracy
Authors: Buisseret Peter , Van Weelden Richard
Published: March 2024

We study how office‐seeking parties use direct democracy to shape elections. A party with a strong electoral base can benefit from using a binding referendum to resolve issues that divide its core supporters. When referendums do not bind, however, an electorally disadvantaged party may initiate a referendum to elevate new issues. It does so with the goal of dividing its stronger opponent's supporters. We identify conditions under which direct democracy improves congruence between policy outcomes and voter preferences, but also show that it can lead to greater misalignment both on issues subject to direct democracy and those that are not.
Tranexamic acid versus oxytocin for primary postpartum Haemorrhage in the out‐of‐hospital setting: A systematic review with implications for rural practice
Authors: De Silva Megan , Mizzi Gabrielle , Potts Emily , Webb Jayden , Thyer Elizabeth , Naidoo Navindhra
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Primary postpartum haemorrhage causes approximately 25% of global maternal deaths and accounts for significant maternal morbidity. While high certainty evidence demonstrates that tranexamic acid reduces comparative blood loss in postpartum haemorrhage in hospital settings, limited data exist on the specific pharmacological management of this condition in out‐of‐hospital settings, and the implications for rural communities.

Objective

To determine the efficacy of oxytocin compared to tranexamic acid in women suffering postpartum haemorrhage in the out‐of‐hospital environment.

Design

A systematic review comparing evidence containing patients with postpartum haemorrhage in the out‐of‐hospital and/or rural setting, in which oxytocin/tranexamic acid were used. Outcome measures were comparative blood loss/haemorrhagic shock, the need for further interventions and maternal/neonatal morbidity/mortality.

Findings

No randomised control trials have been conducted in an out‐of‐hospital environment in relation to oxytocin/tranexamic acid. In this setting, there is no difference in outcome measures when using oxytocin compared to no intervention, or oxytocin compared to standard care. Data are lacking on the effect of tranexamic acid on the same outcome measures.

Discussion

Rural and out‐of‐hospital management of postpartum haemorrhage is limited by resource availability and practitioner availability, capacity and experience. In‐hospital evidence may lack transferability, therefore direct evidence on the efficacy of pharmacological management in these contexts is scant and requires redress.

Conclusion

There is no difference in blood loss, neonatal or maternal mortality or morbidity, or need for further interventions, when using oxytocin or TXA compared to no intervention, or compared to standard care, for PPH. Further studies are needed on the efficacy of these drugs, and alternate or co‐drug therapies, for PPH in the out‐of‐hospital environment and rural clinical practice.
Maternal use of nitrosatable drugs during pregnancy and adult male reproductive health: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Clemmensen Pernille Jul , Brix Nis , Schullehner Jörg , Toft Gunnar , Søgaard Tøttenborg Sandra , Sørig Hougaard Karin , Bjerregaard Anne Ahrendt , Halldorsson Thorhallur Ingi , Olsen Sjurdur Frodi , Hansen Birgitte , Stayner Leslie Thomas , Sigsgaard Torben , Kolstad Henrik , Bonde Jens Peter Ellekilde , Ramlau‐Hansen Cecilia Høst
Published: March 2024

Background

Prenatal exposures to xenobiotics during the masculinization programming window are suggested to impact male fecundity later in life. Frequently used nitrosatable drugs, such as penicillins and beta2‐agonists, contain amines or amides that may form teratogenic compounds in reaction with nitrite.

Objectives

We explored whether maternal nitrosatable drug use during gestation was associated with biomarkers of male fecundity in adulthood; moreover, the potential modifiable effect of nitrate and vitamin intake was investigated.

Method

We performed a cohort study in the Fetal Programming of Semen Quality cohort that includes semen characteristics, reproductive hormone concentrations, and measures of testis size on 1058 young adult sons in the Danish National Birth Cohort. Information on maternal use of nitrosatable drugs was obtained from questionnaires and interviews around gestational weeks 11 and 16. A multivariable negative binomial regression model was used to obtain relative differences in biomarkers of male fecundity for those whose mothers used nitrosatable drugs compared to those without such maternal use. In sub‐analyses, the exposure was categorized according to nitrosatable drug type: secondary amine, tertiary amine, or amide. We investigated dose dependency by examining the number of weeks with intake and explored potential effect modification by low versus high maternal nitrate and vitamin intake from diet and nitrate concentration in drinking water. We added selection weights and imputed values of missing covariates to limit the risk of selection bias.

Results

In total, 19.6% of the study population were born of mothers with an intake of nitrosatable drugs at least once during early pregnancy. Relative differences in biomarkers related to male fecundity between exposed and unexposed participants were negligible. Imputation of missing covariates did not fundamentally alter the results. Furthermore, no sensitive subpopulations were detected.

Conclusions

The results suggest that maternal use of nitrosatable drugs does not have a harmful influence on the male fecundity of the offspring.
Discrimination between ventricular tachycardia and wide‐QRS preexcited tachycardia
Authors: Lee Jae Hoon
Published: March 2024

Background

To develop a new algorithm to differentiate ventricular tachycardia (VT) from preexcited tachycardia (pre‐ET) according to left bundle branch block (LBBB) and right bundle branch block (RBBB) patterns.

Methods

This study included 67 electrocardiograms (ECGs) with VT and 63 ECGs with pre‐ET, collected from our hospital and through PubMed. Of those, 64 were allocated to the derivation cohort and the rest to the validation cohort. The diagnoses of the ECGs were confirmed using an electrophysiological study. Parameters and classifiers from prior algorithms along with the propagation speeds in the early portion of the QRS complex (initial deflection index) in leads V1, V6, aVR, II, and III were manually measured. The performance of the new algorithm was compared with that of prior algorithms.

Results

The initial deflection index in lead III was the strongest predictor of pre‐ET in LBBB‐pattern wide‐QRS tachycardia (p = 0.003, AUC 0.805). The initial deflection index in lead V1 was the most powerful predictor of pre‐ET in RBBB‐pattern wide‐QRS tachycardia (p = 0.001, AUC 0.848). Compared to earlier algorithms, those using the initial deflection indexes: lead III in LBBB patterns (cutoff value >0.3) and lead V1 in RBBB patterns (cutoff value ≤0.48), demonstrated superior performance in screening VT, with AUC values of 0.828. The initial deflection indexes proved effective as discriminators between VT and pre‐ET in the validation cohort.

Conclusions

In LBBB‐pattern wide‐QRS tachycardia, the early propagation speed of pre‐ET was faster than that in VT. Conversely, in RBBB‐pattern wide‐QRS tachycardia, it was slower.
Loss of psoas muscle during neoadjuvant treatment for rectal cancer is associated with poor oncological and surgical outcomes
Authors: Yassaie Shahed , Lan Renqiao , Hodder Rupert
Published: March 2024

Background

Sarcopenia has been associated with poor outcomes in rectal cancer patients. This study aims to assess the degree of muscle loss during neoadjuvant therapy in patients with rectal cancer, and its relationship with tumour response, post‐operative complications and long‐term disease recurrence.

Methods

The change in the psoas muscle area was determined by measuring the psoas muscle area at L4 on initial staging PET CT scans and comparing this with the restaging scan 8–10 weeks after radiation treatment had been completed. The average change in the psoas muscle area was compared between patients who had residual disease versus complete clinical/pathological response, anastomotic leak vs. no leak, and distant recurrence vs. no recurrence on follow‐up imaging.

Results

Ninety‐two patients were included in the study. The mean loss of psoas muscle area was 5%. Patients who had a complete response to chemoradiotherapy showed a statistically significant difference in muscle mass loss (2.8%) compared to those with residual tumour present after therapy (6.2%), P = 0.02 on multivariable analysis. There was a statistically significant greater loss of muscle in patients who had an anastomotic leak versus those that did not (10.2% vs. 4.1%) and in those who developed metastatic disease versus those that did not (10.7% vs. 4.1%) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study adds to the growing body of evidence that sarcopenia is a predictor of poor surgical and oncological outcomes in rectal cancer patients. We postulate that the loss of muscle is an indication of disease burden and worse tumour biology.
Comparing outcomes and cost in surgery versus watch & wait surveillance of patients with rectal cancer post neoadjuvant long course chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Crean Rory , Glyn Tamara , McCombie Andrew , Frizelle Frank
Published: March 2024

Background

Watch and wait (W&W) in complete clinical responders after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy has increasingly robust data supporting its oncological safety. Recently, studies have assessed the real‐world costs of this strategy compared to surgical resection. Our aim was to compare our oncological safety and costs associated with operative and surveillance strategies to international literature.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected and analysed via electronic health records from March 2014 to March 2021 in Christchurch, New Zealand. Two cohorts were created based on intention to treat. All hospital events were recorded and costed, as well as oncologic outcomes. Our primary endpoints were the cumulative cost of both strategies, 3‐year survival rate, and disease‐free survival.

Results

Forty‐eight patients were identified who had rectal cancers resected (OT) with a yPT0N0 pathology, and 42 who were on the wait‐and‐watch (W&W) audit after having a clinical complete response. After exclusions, we identified 38 OT and 23 W&W patients; the W&W group were more co‐morbid (P = 0.05), had worse functional status (P = 0.008), higher BMI (P = 0.34) and more favourable clinical tumour staging (P = 0.01). The operative treatment (OT) group (n = 38) had more acute admissions (34% versus 13% in W&W, P = 0.08, OR 0.29). There was a 35.7% (n = 8 of 23) local recurrence in W&W and none in the OT group (P ≤ 0.001), with successful salvage in the W&W with local recurrence in 71.5% (n = 5 of 7). Three‐year distant metastasis‐free rate was 97.3% in the OT group and 90.9% in W&W (p = 0.05). Overall survival was 100% (W&W) and 94.7% (OT); (P = 0.019). Care in the OT group cost more than W&W, accounting for local regrowth management; $NZ70,759.56 versus $NZ47,905.52 (P = 0.014).

Conclusion

This study found better oncological outcomes in the OT group, whilst the W&W group had reduced morbidity and acute bed days. The cost of wait and watch was approximately two‐thirds that of operative treatment, even accounting for salvage procedures for local regrowth.
Negative interactions and marital satisfaction across adulthood: The moderating role of affect valuation
Authors: Jiang Da , Li Tianyuan , Fung Helene H.
Published: March 2024

Older adults report higher marital satisfaction than younger adults even after negative interactions. The current study examined affect valuation as a potential moderator to explain age‐related differences in the relationship between negative interactions and marital satisfaction. We conducted a 14‐day daily diary study among 66 heterosexual couples (132 participants) aged from 21 to 80 years. At both person and daily levels, we found that valuing negative affect weakened the negative association between negative interactions and marital satisfaction in husbands. The moderating effect of negative affect valuation was stronger in older than younger husbands at the person but not daily level. Valuing positive affect more was associated with a stronger negative association between negative interactions and marital satisfaction in husbands at the person but not daily level. Such effect was again stronger in older than younger husbands. No significant results were found in wives. These findings shed light on the importance of affect valuation in understanding age‐related differences in marital dynamics.
Rapid identification of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants using stable high‐frequency mutation sites
Authors: Fu Yu , He Xiaobai , Fang Quan , Kong Fei , Zhang Yan , Fu Ting , Chen Liang , Liu YanXin , Wang Zhen , Lyu Jianxin , Chen Linjie
Published: March 2024

Respiratory infectious viruses, including SARS‐CoV‐2, undergo rapid genetic evolution, resulting in diverse subtypes with complex mutations. Detecting and differentiating these subtypes pose significant challenges in respiratory virus surveillance. To address these challenges, we integrated ARMS‐PCR with molecular beacon probes, allowing selective amplification and discrimination of subtypes based on adjacent mutation sites. The method exhibited high specificity and sensitivity, detecting as low as 104 copies/mL via direct fluorescence analysis and ~106 copies/mL using real‐time PCR. Our robust detection approach offers a reliable and efficient solution for monitoring evolving respiratory infections, aiding early diagnosis and control measures. Further research could extend its application to other respiratory viruses and optimize its implementation in clinical settings.
Total laparoscopic wedge resection for an intramural ectopic pregnancy using an intraoperative ultrasound system: A case report
Authors: Kubo Kotaro , Fujikawa Atsushi , Mitoma Tomohiro , Mishima Sakurako , Ohira Akiko , Kirino Satoe , Maki Jota , Eto Eriko , Masuyama Hisashi
Published: March 2024

Intramural pregnancy is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy, and the optimal treatment remains uncertain. We describe a 33‐year‐old woman (gravida 2, para 0) who visited our hospital with suspected ectopic pregnancy. The patient was asymptomatic and hemodynamically stable. Transvaginal ultrasonography revealed pregnancy at 6 weeks of gestation and a gestational sac and fetal heartbeat in the anterior muscular layer of the uterus, away from the endometrium. The fetal sac measured 26 mm. The serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) level had increased to 27 655 mIU/mL. Accordingly, the patient was diagnosed with an intramural ectopic pregnancy and underwent total laparoscopic wedge resection using intraoperative ultrasonography. The postoperative course was uneventful, and she was discharged after 4 days. Her serum hCG level normalized at 26 days postoperatively. This case indicates that intraoperative laparoscopic ultrasonography seems viable for treating intramural pregnancies.
Navigating the Countertransference Experience: A Transtheoretical Specifist Model
Authors: Barreto João F. , Matos Paula Mena
Published: March 2024

The attempt to identify and classify distinct experiences falling under the common designation of countertransference has been labelled the specifist tradition. In this paper, a model describing two dimensions differentiating four components of countertransference experience is proposed. For each experiential component (subjective countertransference, objective countertransference, therapeutic attitude and emerging experience), a brief description based on previous literature from diverse theoretical fields is offered, along with clinical implications and illustrations and an account of empirical literature explicitly or implicitly addressing the specific component. In conclusion, the model is presented as a heuristic guide that can serve different purposes across different therapeutic orientations, with valuable implications for practice, training and supervision.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of different treatment modalities in BCG‐unresponsive NMIBC
Authors: Rieger Constantin , Schlüchtermann Jörg , Storz Enno , Kastner Lucas , Pfister David , Heidenreich Axel
Published: March 2024

Objective

Radical cystectomy (RC) is the standard of care (SOC) in BCG‐unresponsive NMIBC and is associated with a significant health‐related quality‐of‐life burden. Recently, promising results have been published on Gemcitabine/Docetaxel, Pembrolizumab, and Hyperthermic Intravesical Chemotherapy (HIVEC) as salvage therapy options trying to increase the rate of bladder preservation. Here, we performed a Cost‐Effectiveness‐Analysis of those treatment modalities.

Patients and Methods

We developed a Markov model from a payer's perspective drawing on clinical data of single‐arm trials testing intravesical gemcitabine/docetaxel and pembrolizumab in BCG‐unresponsive NMIBC, as well as clinical data from patients receiving hyperthermic intravesical chemotherapy HIVEC (n = 29) as intravesical salvage chemotherapy at our uro‐oncological centre in Cologne. Costs were simulated utilising a non‐commercial diagnosis‐related groups grouper, utilities were derived from comparable cost‐effectiveness studies. We used a Monte Carlo simulation to identify the optimal treatment, comparing the incremental cost effectiveness ratios (ICERs) at a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of €50 000 (euro)/quality‐adjusted life year (QALY).

Results

Over a horizon of 10 years, gemcitabine/docetaxel, HIVEC, and pembrolizumab were associated with costs of €48 353, €64 438, and €204 580, as well as a gain of QALYs of 6.16, 6.48, and 6.00, resulting in an ICER of €26 482, €42 567, and €184 533 respectively, in comparison to RC with total costs of €21 871 and a gain of QALYs of 5.01. Monte Carlo simulation identified HIVEC as the treatment of choice under assumption of a WTP of <€50 000.

Conclusion

Considering a WTP of <€50 000/QALY, gemcitabine/docetaxel and HIVEC are highly cost‐effective therapeutic options in BCG‐refractory NMIBC, while RC remains the cheapest option. At its current price, pembrolizumab would only be cost‐effective assuming a price reduction of at least 70%.