bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidation–reduction imaging of myoglobin reveals two-phase oxidation in the reperfused myocardium
Authors: Badawi Sally , Leboullenger Clémence , Chourrout Matthieu , Gouriou Yves , Paccalet Alexandre , Pillot Bruno , Augeul Lionel , Bolbos Radu , Bongiovani Antonino , Mewton Nathan , Bochaton Thomas , Ovize Michel , Tardivel Meryem , Kurdi Mazen , Canet-Soulas Emmanuelle , Da Silva Claire Crola , Bidaux Gabriel
Published: March 2024

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a serious acute cardiovascular syndrome that causes myocardial injury due to blood flow obstruction to a specific myocardial area. Under ischemic–reperfusion settings, a burst of reactive oxygen species is generated, leading to redox imbalance that could be attributed to several molecules, including myoglobin. Myoglobin is dynamic and exhibits various oxidation–reduction states that have been an early subject of attention in the food industry, specifically for meat consumers. However, rarely if ever have the myoglobin optical properties been used to measure the severity of MI. In the current study, we develop a novel imaging pipeline that integrates tissue clearing, confocal and light sheet fluorescence microscopy, combined with imaging analysis, and processing tools to investigate and characterize the oxidation–reduction states of myoglobin in the ischemic area of the cleared myocardium post-MI. Using spectral imaging, we have characterized the endogenous fluorescence of the myocardium and demonstrated that it is partly composed by fluorescence of myoglobin. Under ischemia–reperfusion experimental settings, we report that the infarcted myocardium spectral signature is similar to that of oxidized myoglobin signal that peaks 3 h post-reperfusion and decreases with cardioprotection. The infarct size assessed by oxidation–reduction imaging at 3 h post-reperfusion was correlated to the one estimated with late gadolinium enhancement MRI at 24 h post-reperfusion. In conclusion, this original work suggests that the redox state of myoglobin can be used as a promising imaging biomarker for characterizing and estimating the size of the MI during early phases of reperfusion.
Lichen biomonitoring to assess spatial variability, potential sources and human health risks of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and airborne metal concentrations in Manchester (UK)
Authors: Niepsch Daniel , Clarke Leon J. , Jones Rhys G. , Tzoulas Konstantinos , Cavan Gina
Published: March 2024

Airborne metals and organic pollutants are linked to severe human health impacts, i.e. affecting the nervous system and being associated with cancer. Airborne metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in urban environments are derived from diverse sources, including combustion and industrial and vehicular emissions, posing a threat to air quality and subsequently human health. A lichen biomonitoring approach was used to assess spatial variability of airborne metals and PAHs, identify potential pollution sources and assess human health risks across the City of Manchester (UK). Metal concentrations recorded in lichen samples were highest within the city centre area and along the major road network, and lichen PAH profiles were dominated by 4-ring PAHs (189.82 ng g−1 in Xanthoria parietina), with 5- and 6-ring PAHs also contributing to the overall PAH profile. Cluster analysis and pollution index factor (PIF) calculations for lichen-derived metal concentrations suggested deteriorated air quality being primarily linked to vehicular emissions. Comparably, PAH diagnostic ratios identified vehicular sources as a primary cause of PAH pollution across Manchester. However, local more complex sources (e.g. industrial emissions) were further identified. Human health risk assessment found a “moderate” risk for adults and children by airborne potential harmful element (PHEs) concentrations, whereas PAH exposure in Manchester is potentially linked to 1455 (ILCR = 1.45 × 10−3) cancer cases (in 1,000,000). Findings of this study indicate that an easy-to-use lichen biomonitoring approach can aid to identify hotspots of impaired air quality and potential human health impacts by airborne metals and PAHs across an urban environment, particularly at locations that are not continuously covered by (non-)automated air quality measurement programmes.

Graphical Abstract
Unravelling the Longitudinal Relations Between Developmental Milestones, General Psychopathology, and Personality Functioning in a Youth Clinical Sample
Authors: Iannattone Sara , Schuiringa Hilde D. , Aleva Anouk , Koster Nagila , van Aken Marcel A. G. , Hessels Christel J. , van der Heijden Paul T. , Laceulle Odilia M.
Published: March 2024

Personality functioning, general psychopathology, and developmental milestones achievement are critical domains in the field of young people’s mental health; however, no prior research has considered these variables jointly or examined the temporal dynamics between them. To fill these gaps, the present study aimed to investigate the longitudinal associations between the above constructs in a clinical sample of Dutch youth. 525 outpatients (72.5% women; age range: 12–26 years, M = 18.8 ± 2.83) diagnosed with different psychological difficulties were recruited from specialized mental health care services in The Netherlands. They completed self-report measures assessing personality functioning, psychopathological symptoms, and the achievement of youth-specific developmental milestones. Data were collected on three occasions within a year and modelled using a Cross-Lagged Panel Model approach. The levels of personality dysfunction, general psychopathology, and developmental milestones achievement were found to fluctuate from one wave to the other. Personality dysfunction and general psychopathology were positively interrelated at each time point, while both constructs were negatively associated with developmental milestones achievement. Importantly, difficulties achieving developmental milestones predicted a worsening in personality functioning 6 months later. This result would suggest that the achievement of developmental milestones precedes personality functioning, supporting the importance of interventions promoting age-adequate functioning in youth.
Ultrasound-Guided External Oblique Intercostal Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Prospective, Randomized, Controlled, Patient and Observer-Blinded Study
Authors: Kavakli Ali Sait , Sahin Taylan , Koc Umit , Karaveli Arzu
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The external oblique intercostal plane (EOI) block is a novel block technique for anterolateral upper abdominal wall analgesia. The superficial nature of the external oblique intercostal plane allows it to be easily identified even in patients with obesity. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that EOI block would reduce IV morphine consumption within 24 h after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

Materials and Methods

Patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups: EOI block group and control group. The patients in the EOI block group received ultrasound-guided bilateral EOI block with a total of 40 ml 0.25% bupivacaine after anesthesia induction. The patients in the control group received no intervention. Postoperatively, all the patients were connected to an intravenous patient controlled analgesia (PCA) device containing morphine. The primary outcome of the study was IV morphine consumption in the first postoperative 24 h.

Results

The median [interquartile range] morphine consumption at 24 h postoperatively was significantly lower in the EOI block group than in the control group (7.5 [3.5 to 8.5] mg vs 14 [12 to 20] mg, p = 0.0001, respectively). Numerical rating scale (NRS) scores at rest and during movement were lower in the EOI block group than in the control group at 2, 6, and 12 h but were similar at 24 h. No block-related complications were observed in any patients.

Conclusion

The results of the current study demonstrated that bilateral EOI block reduced postoperative opioid consumption and postoperative pain in patients with obesity undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

Trial Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT05663658.

Graphical Abstract
Blood glucose control and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in people with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Della Pepa G. , Lupoli R. , Masulli M. , Boccia R. , De Angelis R. , Gianfrancesco S. , Piccolo R. , Rainone C. , Rivellese A. A. , Annuzzi G. , Bozzetto L.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) may have distinctive pathophysiological features in type 1 diabetes (T1D). We evaluated the independent role of blood glucose control on MASLD in T1D.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study on 659 T1D adult patients, MASLD was assessed by the Fatty Liver Index (FLI) and the Hepatic Steatosis Index (HSI). Anthropometric, biochemical, and clinical parameters were retrieved from electronic records. Blood glucose control status was evaluated by dividing participants into subgroups according to the median value of HbA1c [7.6% (60 mmol/mol)], and this analysis was repeated excluding overweight/obese patients.

Results

Patients with HbA1c above 7.6% (60 mmol/mol) showed significantly higher MASLD indices (HSI 38 ± 6 vs. 36 ± 5, p < 0.001; FLI 26 ± 26 vs.19 ± 19, p < 0.001), and higher proportions of MASLD identified by HSI (57 vs. 44%, p < 0.001) and FLI (14 vs. 7%, p < 0.001) than patients with HbA1c below 7.6% (60 mmol/mol). Similar results were obtained for HSI after the exclusion of overweight/obese patients. Stepwise linear regression analysis confirmed that HbA1c was independently associated with HSI (r = 0.496, p = 0.009) and FLI (r = 0.722, p = 0.007); waist circumference with HSI (r = 0.492, p < 0.001); and waist circumference (r = 0.700, p < 0.001), HDL cholesterol (r = 0.719, p < 0.001), and LDL cholesterol (r = 0.712, p < 0.001) with FLI.

Conclusions

Blood glucose control is a main factor associated with MASLD in adults with T1D, also independently of overweight and obesity. Appropriate therapeutic strategies focused on tight blood glucose control may also be needed for the prevention and treatment of MASLD in T1D.
GCC transgender labor market outcomes in GCC
Authors: Yasmeen Kausar , Yasmin Kashifa , Adnan Muhammad , Malik Mustafa
Published: March 2024

This research endeavors to bridge a vital gap in the study of transgender individuals’ participation in the labor market within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. It is driven by the question: “What are the underlying factors contributing to the reluctance of GCC employers to hire transgender individuals, and how does this impact the labor market participation of this group?” In pursuit of comprehensive insights, the study aligns with the Cochrane Handbook for systematic research design. The methodology used encompasses an extensive review of academic literature from 2012 to 2023, in-depth interviews with transgender individuals in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and thematic analysis to identify critical factors. The findings reveal that transgender individuals face significant legal challenges and widespread cultural discrimination in the GCC. These issues lead to workplace biases, unequal pay, and hindered career progression. A key factor in the limited employment opportunities for transgender individuals in the GCC is the reluctance of employers, stemming from cultural stigma and legal shortcomings. This reluctance propagates employment discrimination and a hostile labor market environment for transgender individuals. The study found that employers' hesitancy to hire transgender individuals leads to higher unemployment rates within this group, perpetuating poverty, social exclusion, and hindering economic diversity and innovation in the GCC. The study underscores the urgent need for holistic strategies and policy reforms in the GCC to ensure workplace equality and full labor market integration for transgender individuals, addressing a crucial research gap and emphasizing the need for dedicated efforts in this field.
Adherence to stewardship recommendations for antibiotic discontinuation reduces antibiotic-associated adverse drug events
Authors: Mulligan Patrick , Ismail Nader , Shah Nirav , Ridgway Jessica P. , Ravichandran Urmila , Grant Jennifer , Acree Mary Ellen
Published: March 2024

Inappropriate antibiotic use may lead to increased adverse drug events (ADEs). This study assessed whether an antimicrobial stewardship recommendation to discontinue antibiotics in patients with low likelihood for bacterial infection reduced antibiotic duration and antibiotic-associated ADEs. At a 4-hospital system, hospitalized adult patients receiving empiric antibiotics for suspected infection were identified between May 2, 2016 and June 30, 2018. For those patients who were deemed unlikely to have a bacterial infection, a note was left by an infectious diseases physician recommending antibiotic discontinuation. Patient cases were considered “adherent” to recommendations if antibiotics were discontinued within 48 hours of the note and “non-adherent” to recommendations if antibiotics were continued beyond this. Duration of antibiotics and potential antibiotic-associated ADEs were collected retrospectively. Attribution of the adverse event to the antibiotic was decided upon by the investigators. The incidence of ADEs and duration of antibiotics between the adherent and non-adherent groups were compared. Of 253 patients deemed unlikely to have a bacterial infection, 114 (45%) treatment teams stopped antibiotics within 48 hours of the recommendation, and 139 (55%) continued antibiotics. The total number of ADEs was significantly higher in the non-adherent group compared to the adherent group (34 ADEs vs 9 ADEs, P = .001). The median number of total prescribed antibiotic days was higher in the non-adherent group than in the adherent group (5 days vs 1 day, P < .001). This study demonstrates that stewardship programs may prevent ADEs by recommending antibiotic discontinuation in patients with low suspicion for bacterial infection.
Investigating the politics and content of US State artificial intelligence legislation
Authors: Parinandi Srinivas , Crosson Jesse , Peterson Kai , Nadarevic Sinan
Published: March 2024

The rapid emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and its application by businesses has created a potential need for governmental regulation. While the federal government of the United States has largely sidestepped the issue of crafting law dictating limitations and expectations regarding the use of AI technology, US state legislatures have begun to take the lead in this area. Nonetheless, we know very little about how state legislatures have approached the design, pursuit, and adoption of AI policy and whether traditional political fault lines have manifested themselves in the AI issue area. Here, we gather data on the state-level adoption of AI policy, as well as roll call voting on AI bills (classified on the basis of consumer protection versus economic development), by state legislatures and analyze the political economy of AI legislation. We find that rising unemployment and inflation are negatively associated with a state’s AI policymaking. With respect to individual legislator support, we find that liberal lawmakers and Democrats are more likely to support bills establishing consumer protection requirements on AI usage. The results suggest that economic concerns loom large with AI and that traditional political fault lines may be establishing themselves in this area.
The impact of female education on fertility: evidence from Malawi Universal Primary Education program
Authors: Wang Tianheng
Published: March 2024

This paper examines the impact of female education on fertility outcomes by using the Universal Primary Education (UPE) program in Malawi as a natural experiment. The finding indicates that the UPE policy improves rural women's educational attainment by 0.42 years and an additional year of female education decreases women's number of children ever born and the number of living children by 0.39 and 0.34, respectively. An analysis of potential mechanisms suggests that the decreased fertility rates are likely driven by the reduction in women's fertility preferences, the postponement of marriage, and the delay of motherhood. Contrarily, the study finds no evidence that increased female education affects women's labor force participation and the use of modern contraception.
Extreme Heat and Pregnancy: A Content Analysis of Heat Health Risk Communication by US Public Health Agencies
Authors: Stassen Robyn , Zottarelli Lisa K. , Rowan Paul , Walton Gretchen , Herbold John
Published: March 2024

Objectives:

Exposure to extreme heat events increases the risk for negative birth outcomes, including preterm birth. This study sought to determine the presence and content of web-based heat health information for pregnant people provided by federal, state, and local government public health websites.

Methods:

This website content analysis consisted of 17 federal, 50 state, and 21 city websites, and noted which of 25 recognized pregnancy heat health data elements were included. Data for the analysis were collected from March 12, 2022, through March 16, 2022.

Results:

The search identified 17 federal websites, 38 state websites, and 19 city websites with heat health information. Within these, only seven websites listed pregnant people as a vulnerable or at-risk population, and only six websites provided information related to heat health specifically for pregnancy. Of the 25 themes recognized as important for pregnancy risk during extreme heat exposure, only 11 were represented within these 6 websites.

Conclusion:

The presence of web-based pregnancy heat health information is infrequent and limited in content. Boosting web-based publication of extreme heat and pregnancy risks could mitigate negative maternal and child health outcomes.
Rigidity of pressures of Hölder potentials and the fitting of analytic functions through them
Authors: MA LIANGANG , POLLICOTT MARK
Published: March 2024

The first part of this work is devoted to the study of higher derivatives of pressure functions of Hölder potentials on shift spaces with finitely many symbols. By describing the derivatives of pressure functions via the central limit theorem for the associated random processes, we discover some rigid relationships between derivatives of various orders. The rigidity imposes obstructions on fitting candidate convex analytic functions by pressure functions of Hölder potentials globally, which answers a question of Kucherenko and Quas. In the second part of the work, we consider fitting candidate analytic germs by pressure functions of locally constant potentials. We prove that all 1-level candidate germs can be realised by pressures of some locally constant potentials, as long as the number of symbols in the symbolic set is large enough. There are also some results on fitting 2-level germs by pressures of locally constant potentials obtained in the work.
Eulerian discrete kinetic framework in comoving reference frame for hypersonic flows
Authors: Ji Y. , Hosseini S.A. , Dorschner B. , Luo K.H. , Karlin I.V.
Published: March 2024

Flow physics vary in different regimes across the full Mach number range, with our knowledge being particularly poor about the hypersonic regime. An Eulerian realization of the particles on demand method, a kinetic model formulated in the comoving reference frame, is proposed to simulate hypersonic compressible flows. The present model allows for flux evaluation in different reference frames, in this case rescaled and shifted by local macroscopic quantities, i.e. fluid speed and temperature. The resulting system of coupled hyperbolic equations is discretized in physical space with a finite volume scheme ensuring exact conservation properties. Regularization via Grad expansion is introduced to implement distribution function and flux transformation between different reference frames. It is shown that the proposed method possesses Galilean invariance at a Mach number up to

$100$

. Different benchmarks including both inviscid and viscous flows are reproduced with the Mach number up to

$198$

and pressure ratio up to

$10^5$

. Finally, the new model is demonstrated to be capable of simulating hypersonic reactive flows, including one-dimensional and two-dimensional detonations. The developed methodology opens up possibilities for the simulation of the full range of compressible flows, without or with chemical reactions, from the subsonic to hypersonic regimes, leading to enhanced understanding of flow behaviours across the full Mach number range.
ΤWO BEGINNINGS: ACROSTIC COMMENCEMENTS IN HORACE (EPOD. 1.1–2) AND OVID (MET. 1.1–3)
Authors: Evans Brett
Published: March 2024

This article proposes that Horace's Epodes and Ovid's Metamorphoses open with significant acrostics that comprise the first two letters, in some cases forming syllables, of successive lines: IB-AM/IAMB (Epod. 1.1–2) and IN-CO-(H)AS (Met. 1.1–3). Each acrostic, it will be argued, tees up programmatic concerns vital to the work it opens: generic identity and the interrelation of form and content (Epodes), etymology and monumentality (Metamorphoses). Moreover, as befits their placement at the head of collections, both acrostics negotiate the challenge of literary commencement. The introduction reviews recent developments in acrostic studies and discusses important predecessors and parallels for Horace's and Ovid's ‘two-letter’ and syllabic acrostics. Two subsequent sections examine the acrostics singly, and a conclusion compares the dialogues that these acrostics open between author and reader, underscoring the welcome challenge which Ovid's acrostic offers to the prevailing scholarly view that this form of wordplay is a strictly visual affair.
The Diplomacy of Whataboutism and US Foreign Policy Attitudes
Authors: Chow Wilfred M. , Levin Dov H.
Published: March 2024

Does whataboutism work in global affairs? When states face international criticism, they often respond with whataboutism: accusing their critics of similar faults. Despite its prevalence in policy discussions, whataboutism remains an understudied influence strategy. This study investigates how states use whataboutism to shape American public opinion across various international issues. We find, using survey experiments, that whataboutism mitigates the negative impacts of criticism by reducing public approval of US positions and backing for punitive actions. Whataboutist critiques referencing similar, recent misdeeds have more power to shape opinions. However, the identity of the whataboutist state does not significantly affect effectiveness. US counter-messaging often fails to diminish the effects of whataboutism. These results show that whataboutism can be a potent rhetorical tool in international relations and that it warrants greater attention from international relations scholars.
Laboratory evaluation of a rapid diagnostic test for dairy mastitis
Authors: Speksnijder David C. , Verduijn Hendrika C. , van Haren Sharon , Ussing Tomas , van Werven Tine
Published: March 2024

Rapid diagnostic tests that differentiate between Gram positive, Gram negative and the absence of aerobic bacteria in milk samples from dairy cows with clinical mastitis can support antimicrobial treatment decisions and contribute to a more prudent use of antimicrobials in the dairy industry. The objective of this study was to evaluate the test characteristics of the novel rapid BACT mastitis test in discriminating causes of clinical mastitis under laboratory conditions. Test outcomes of 155 milk samples from clinical mastitis cases were incubated for 14–16 h in the BACT test and compared to results of bacteriological culture. The accuracy for detection of bacterial growth and Gram positive growth was 91 and 89%, respectively. The BACT test could provide an accurate and relatively fast decision tool for farmers to aid in antimicrobial treatment decisions in cases of clinical mastitis.
Fermentation of whey-derived matrices by Kluyveromyces marxianus: alcoholic beverage development from whey and fruit juice mixes
Authors: Gómez Gabriel A. , Cuffia Facundo , Nagel Orlando G. , Althaus Rafael L. , Ceruti Roberto J.
Published: March 2024

This research paper addresses the hypotheses that Kluyveromyces marxianus can be cultured with good alcohol production on different whey-derived matrices, and that the fermented product can be used in order to develop alcoholic beverages with acceptable sensory characteristics by mixtures with yeast-fermented fruit-based matrices. Growth and fermentative characteristics of Kluyveromyces marxianus LFIQK1 in different whey-derived matrices were explored by culturing (24 h, 30°C) on reconstituted whey, demineralized whey, heat-treated whey and milk permeate media. High lactose consumption, ethanol production and yield were observed. Reconstituted whey matrix was selected for mixing with orange or strawberry juices fermented using Saccharomyces cerevisiae to obtain alcoholic beverages (W-OR and W-ST, respectively). Consumer evaluation of beverages was performed using acceptability and Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) questions. Good acceptance was observed, significantly higher for W-ST than for W-OR. CATA questions gave information about organoleptic characteristics of beverages. Penalty analysis showed W-R and W-ST were positively associated with smooth/refreshing and fruity/natural, respectively. Liking was represented, accordingly with penalty analysis, by natural/refreshing. A novel alternative for utilization of whey and whey-related matrices by alcoholic beverages production with natural ingredients is presented.
Evaluating large-language-model chatbots to engage communities in large-scale design projects
Authors: Dortheimer Jonathan , Martelaro Nik , Sprecher Aaron , Schubert Gerhard
Published: March 2024

Recent advances in machine learning have enabled computers to converse with humans meaningfully. In this study, we propose using this technology to facilitate design conversations in large-scale urban development projects by creating chatbot systems that can automate and streamline information exchange between stakeholders and designers. To this end, we developed and evaluated a proof-of-concept chatbot system that can perform design conversations on a specific construction project and convert those conversations into a list of requirements. Next, in an experiment with 56 participants, we compared the chatbot system to a regular online survey, focusing on user satisfaction and the quality and quantity of collected information. The results revealed that, with regard to user satisfaction, the participants preferred the chatbot experience to a regular survey. However, we found that chatbot conversations produced more data than the survey, with a similar rate of novel ideas but fewer themes. Our findings provide robust evidence that chatbots can be effectively used for design discussions in large-scale design projects and offer a user-friendly experience that can help to engage people in the design process. Based on this evidence, by providing a space for meaningful conversations between stakeholders and expanding the reach of design projects, the use of chatbot systems in interactive design systems can potentially improve design processes and their outcomes.
Greater need but reduced access: a population study of planned and elective surgery rates in adult mental health service users
Authors: Sara G. , Hamer J. , Gould P. , Curtis J. , Ramanuj P. , O’Brien T. A. , Burgess P.
Published: March 2024

Aims

Timely access to surgery is an essential part of healthcare. People living with mental health (MH) conditions may have higher rates of chronic illness requiring surgical care but also face barriers to care. There is limited evidence about whether unequal surgical access contributes to health inequalities in this group.

Methods

We examined 1.22 million surgical procedures in public and private hospitals in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, in 2019. In a cross-sectional study of 76,320 MH service users aged 18 and over, surgical procedure rates per 1,000 population were compared to rates for 6.23 million other NSW residents after direct standardisation for age, sex and socio-economic disadvantage. Rates were calculated for planned and emergency surgery, for major specialty groups, for the top 10 procedure blocks in each specialty group and for 13 access-sensitive procedures. Subgroup analyses were conducted for hospital and insurance type and for people with severe or persistent MH conditions.

Results

MH service users had higher rates of surgical procedures (adjusted incidence rate ratio [aIRR]: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.51–1.56), due to slightly higher planned procedure rates (aIRR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.19–1.24) and substantially higher emergency procedure rates (aIRR: 3.60, 95% CI: 3.51–3.70). Emergency procedure rates were increased in all block groups with sufficient numbers for standardisation. MH service users had very high rates (aIRR > 4.5) of emergency cardiovascular, skin and plastics and respiratory procedures, higher rates of planned coronary artery bypass grafting, coronary angiography and cholecystectomy but lower rates of planned ophthalmic surgery, cataract repair, shoulder reconstruction, knee replacement and some plastic surgery procedures.

Conclusions

Higher rates of surgery in MH service users may reflect a higher prevalence of conditions requiring surgical care, including cardiac, metabolic, alcohol-related or smoking-related conditions. The striking increase in emergency surgery rates suggests that this need may not be being met, particularly for chronic and disabling conditions which are often treated by planned surgery in private hospital settings in the Australian health system. A higher proportion of emergency surgery may have serious personal and health system consequences.
EPSPS gene amplification confers glyphosate resistance in Palmer amaranth in Connecticut
Authors: Aulakh Jatinder S. , Kumar Vipan , Brunharo Caio A. C. G. , Veron Adrian , Price Andrew J.
Published: March 2024

A Palmer amaranth biotype (CT-Res) with resistance to glyphosate was recently confirmed in a pumpkin field in Connecticut. However, the underlying mechanisms conferring glyphosate resistance in this biotype is not known. The main objectives of this research were 1) to determine the effect of plant height (10, 20, and 30 cm) on glyphosate resistance levels in CT-Res Palmer amaranth biotype, and 2) to investigate whether the target site–based mechanisms confer glyphosate resistance. To achieve these objectives, progeny seeds of the CT-Res biotype after two generations of recurrent selection with glyphosate (6,720 g ae ha−1) were used. Similarly, known glyphosate-susceptible Palmer amaranth biotypes from Kansas (KS-Sus) and Alabama (AL-Sus) were included. Results from greenhouse dose-response studies revealed that CT-Res Palmer amaranth biotype had 69-, 64-, and 54-fold resistance to glyphosate as compared with the KS-Sus biotype when treated at heights of 10, 20, and 30 cm, respectively. Sequence analysis of the EPSPS gene revealed no point mutations at the Pro106 and Thr102 residues in the CT-Res Palmer amaranth biotype. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that the CT-Res biotype had 33 to 111 relative copies of the EPSPS gene compared with the AL-Sus biotype. All these results suggest that the EPSPS gene amplification endows a high level of glyphosate resistance in the GR Palmer amaranth biotype from Connecticut. Because of the lack of control with glyphosate, growers should adopt the use of effective alternative preemergence and postemergence herbicides in conjunction with other cultural and mechanical tactics to mitigate the further spread of GR Palmer amaranth in Connecticut.
Re‐Evaluating Hydrogen Sulfide as a Sink for Cadmium and Zinc in the Oxic to Suboxic Upper Water Column of the Pacific Ocean
Authors: Buckley N. R. , Black E. E. , Kenyon J. A. , Lanning N. T. , Sieber M. , Conway T. M. , Fitzsimmons J. N. , Cutter G. A.
Published: March 2024

Hydrogen sulfide is produced by heterotrophic bacteria in anoxic waters and via carbonyl sulfide hydrolysis and phytoplankton emissions under oxic conditions. Apparent losses of dissolved cadmium (dCd) and zinc (dZn) in oxygen minimum zones (OMZs) of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans have been attributed to metal‐sulfide precipitation formed via dissimilatory sulfate reduction. It has also been argued that such a removal process could be a globally important sink for dCd and dZn. However, our studies from the North Pacific OMZ show that dissolved and particulate sulfide concentrations are insufficient to support the removal of dCd via precipitation. In contrast, apparent dCd and dZn deficits in the eastern tropical South Pacific OMZ do reside in the oxycline with particulate sulfide maxima, but they also coincide with the secondary fluorescence maxima, suggesting that removal via sulfide precipitation may be due to a combination of dissimilatory and assimilatory sulfate reduction. Notably, dCd loss via precipitation with sulfide from assimilatory reduction was found in upper oxic waters of the North Pacific. While dissimilatory sulfate reduction may explain local dCd and dZn losses in some OMZs, our evaluation of North Pacific OMZs demonstrates that dCd and dZn losses are unlikely to be a globally relevant sink. Nevertheless, metal sulfide losses due to assimilatory sulfate reduction in surface waters should be considered in future biogeochemical models of oceanic Cd (and perhaps Zn) cycling.
Shallow Thermal Anomalies and Their Role in the Breakup Evolution Along the Conjugate Margins of the Fram Strait (Svalbard and Eastern North Greenland), Indicated by Low‐Temperature Thermochronology
Authors: Meier Katrin , O’Sullivan Paul , Jochmann Malte M. , Wallrath Tino , Monien Patrick , Piepjohn Karsten , Lisker Frank , Spiegel Cornelia
Published: March 2024

We investigated highly mature sedimentary rocks exposed along both sides of the Fram Strait in the northern North Atlantic using apatite fission track and (U‐Th)/He thermochronology to obtain information on the thermal imprint of rifting and continental breakup processes along a sheared margin. Our data showed that the conjugate margins experienced several heating episodes, which we explain as resulting from heat transfer along segments of the De Geer Fracture Zone, a large continental transform system which connected magmatic centers north and south of the Fram Strait. Heating occurred prior to and during the Eurekan intraplate orogeny, which occupied the position of the present‐day Fram Strait during the Eocene. Heat transfer may have caused or contributed to lithospheric weak zones, which focussed deformation during intraplate orogeny. Movements along the transform fault system continued during the Oligocene, after the end of the Eurekan Orogeny, causing further structural weakening of pre‐existing fault zones. These were exploited during the final continental breakup leading to the opening of the Fram Strait. No unambiguous thermal signature associated with this latest stage of breakup was detected. Our data underline recent studies on the importance of structural inheritance and continental transform faults for the prolonged and complex processes of continental rifting and breakup.
Food insecurity and the dental team: a pilot study to explore opinions
Authors: Albadri Sondos , Allen Lisa , Ajeigbe Teslimat
Published: March 2024

Purpose

In total, 17% of UK households with children experience food insecurity, with evidence to suggest a direct correlation with the prevalence of oral disease. This study explores current perceptions of the dental team, when recognising and supporting families who may experience food insecurity.

Materials and methods

An online, anonymous cross-sectional survey was designed and sent to members of the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry (BSPD) in June 2023, examining confidence and understanding surrounding food insecurity and dental health. Quantitative data is presented descriptively and qualitative data using a thematic analysis.

Results

The response rate was 9.6% (n = 76). A significant number recognise the link between poor oral health and food insecurity, 80.3% (n = 61). Although practitioners are confident in oral health counselling, 80.3% (n = 61) a smaller proportion are not as confident when approaching food insecurity 32.9% (n = 25). Dental team members recognise the need to improve identification of affected patients and that they have a professional duty to support. Intervention strategies, such as additional training to support team development and signposting of patients are indicated.

Conclusion

This study suggests that whilst dental professionals understand the link between food insecurity and oral health, and their responsibilities to those affected; they lack confidence in identifying such patients and providing support. Additional conversations and training are fundamental to better understand their role, which must reflect the needs of the population that they serve.
High-throughput characterization of bacterial responses to complex mixtures of chemical pollutants
Authors: Smith Thomas P. , Clegg Tom , Ransome Emma , Martin-Lilley Thomas , Rosindell James , Woodward Guy , Pawar Samraat , Bell Thomas
Published: March 2024

Our understanding of how microbes respond to micropollutants, such as pesticides, is almost wholly based on single-species responses to individual chemicals. However, in natural environments, microbes experience multiple pollutants simultaneously. Here we perform a matrix of multi-stressor experiments by assaying the growth of model and non-model strains of bacteria in all 255 combinations of 8 chemical stressors (antibiotics, herbicides, fungicides and pesticides). We found that bacterial strains responded in different ways to stressor mixtures, which could not be predicted simply from their phylogenetic relatedness. Increasingly complex chemical mixtures were both more likely to negatively impact bacterial growth in monoculture and more likely to reveal net interactive effects. A mixed co-culture of strains proved more resilient to increasingly complex mixtures and revealed fewer interactions in the growth response. These results show predictability in microbial population responses to chemical stressors and could increase the utility of next-generation eco-toxicological assays.
Evidence from 43 countries that disease leaves cultures unchanged in the short-term
Authors: Pasin Gian Luca , Szekely Aron , Eriksson Kimmo , Guido Andrea , di Sorrentino Eugenia Polizzi , Andrighetto Giulia
Published: March 2024

Did cultures change shortly after, and in response to, the COVID-19 outbreak? If so, then in what way? We study these questions for a set of macro-cultural dimensions: collectivism/individualism, duty/joy, traditionalism/autonomy, and pro-fertility/individual-choice norms. We also study specific perceptions and norms like perceived threats to society (e.g. immigration) and hygiene norms. We draw on Evolutionary Modernization Theory, Parasite Stress Theory, and the Behavioural Immune System, and existing evidence, to make an overarching prediction: the COVID-19 pandemic should increase collectivism, duty, traditionalism, conformity (i.e. pro-fertility), and outgroup prejudice. We derive specific hypotheses from this prediction and use survey data from 29,761 respondents, in 55 cities and 43 countries, collected before (April–December 2019) and recently after the emergence of COVID-19 (March–July 2020) to test them. We exploit variation in disease intensity across regions to test potential mechanisms behind any changes. The macro-cultural dimensions remained stable. In contrast, specific perceptions and norms related to the pandemic changed: norms of hygiene substantially increased as did perceived threats related to disease. Taken together, our findings imply that macro-cultural dimensions are primarily stable while specific perceptions and norms, particularly those related to the pandemic, can change rapidly. Our findings provide new evidence for theories of cultural change and have implications for policy, public health, daily life, and future trajectories of our societies.
Comparison of the S8 navigation system and the TINAVI orthopaedic robot in the treatment of upper cervical instability
Authors: Li Shuai , Du Jinpeng , Huang Yunfei , Hao Dingjun , Zhao Zhigang , Chang Zhen , Zhang Xuefang , Gao Shenglong , He Baorong
Published: March 2024

The objective is to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of the S8 navigation system and the Tinavi orthopaedic surgery robot in the treatment of upper cervical instability. The research methods adopted are as follows. The clinical data of patients with upper cervical instability who underwent surgery from May 2021 to December 2021 were analysed retrospectively. Patients were divided into a navigation group (assisted by the S8 navigation system) and a tinavi group (assisted by the Tinavi robot) according to the auxiliary system used. Computed tomography and digital radiography were performed after the operation. The accuracy of pedicle screw placement was evaluated using the criteria put forward by Rampersaud. Degree of facet joint violation, visual analogue scale score, neck disability index and Japanese orthopaedic association score were recorded and assessed during follow-up examinations in both groups. Record two groups of surgery-related indicators. Record the complications of the two groups. A total of 50 patients were included. 21 patients in the navigation group and 29 in the tinavi group. The results of the study are as follows. The average follow-up time was 12.1 months. There was no significant difference in nail placement accuracy between the navigation and tinavi groups (P > 0.05); however, the navigation group had a significantly higher rate of facet joint violation than that of tinavi group (P < 0.05), and the screws were placed closer to the anterior cortex (P < 0.05). Significantly more intraoperative fluoroscopies were performed in the tinavi group than in the navigation group, and the operation time was significantly longer in the tinavi group than in the navigation group (P < 0.05). The time of single nail implantation, intraoperative blood loss and incision length in navigation group were significantly longer than those in tinavi group. There were no statistically significant differences in other indicators between the two groups (P > 0.05). We come to the following conclusion. The Stealth Station S8 navigation system (Medtronic, USA), which also uses an optical tracking system, and the Tinavi Orthopedic robot have shown the same high accuracy and satisfactory clinical results in the treatment of upper cervical instability. Although the S8 navigation system still has many limitations, it still has good application prospects and is a new tool for spine surgery.
Power consumption prediction for electric vehicle charging stations and forecasting income
Authors: Akshay K. C. , Grace G. Hannah , Gunasekaran Kanimozhi , Samikannu Ravi
Published: March 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) are the future of the automobile industry, as they produce zero emissions and address environmental and health concerns caused by traditional fuel-poared vehicles. As more people shift towards EVs, the demand for power consumption forecasting is increasing to manage the charging stations effectively. Predicting power consumption can help optimize operations, prevent grid overloading, and power outages, and assist companies in estimating the number of charging stations required to meet demand. The paper uses three time series models to predict the electricity demand for charging stations, and the SARIMA (Seasonal Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average) model outperforms the ARMA (Auto Regressive Moving Average) and ARIMA (Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average) models, with the least RMSE (Root Mean Squared Error), MAE (Mean Absolute Error) and MAPE (Mean Absolute Percentage Error) scores in forecasting power demand and revenue. The data used for validation consists of charging activities over a four-year period from public charging outlets in Colorado, six months of charging data from ChargeMOD's public charging terminals in Kerala, India. Power usage is also forecasted based on wheels of vehicles, and finally, a plan subscription data from the same source is utilized to anticipate income, that helps companies develop pricing strategies to maximize profits while remaining competitive. Utility firms and charging networks may use accurate power consumption forecasts for a variety of purposes, such as power scheduling and determining the expected energy requirements for charging stations. Ultimately, precise power consumption forecasting can assist in the effective planning and design of EV charging infrastructure. The main aim of this study is to create a good time series model which can estimate the electric vehicle charging stations usage of power and verify if the firm has a good income along with some accuracy measures. The results show that SARIMA model plays a vital role in providing us with accurate information. According to the data and study here, four wheelers use more power than two and three wheelers. Also, DC charging facility uses more electricity than AC charging stations. These results can be used to determine the cost to operate the EVs and its subscriptions.
Promising clinical and immunological efficacy of Bacillus clausii spore probiotics for supportive treatment of persistent diarrhea in children
Authors: Dang Ha Thuy , Tran Dien Minh , Phung Thuy Thi Bich , Bui Anh Thi Phuong , Vu Yen Hai , Luong Minh Thi , Nguyen Hang Minh , Trinh Huong Thi , Nguyen Tham Thi , Nguyen Anh Hoa , Van Nguyen Anh Thi
Published: March 2024

Persistent diarrhea is a severe gastroenteric disease with relatively high risk of pediatric mortality in developing countries. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of liquid-form Bacillus clausii spore probiotics (LiveSpo CLAUSY; 2 billion CFU/5 mL ampoule) at high dosages of 4–6 ampoules a day in supporting treatment of children with persistent diarrhea. Our findings showed that B. clausii spores significantly improved treatment outcomes, resulting in a 2-day shorter recovery period (p < 0.05) and a 1.5–1.6 folds greater efficacy in reducing diarrhea symptoms, such as high frequency of bowel movement of ≥ 3 stools a day, presence of fecal mucus, and diapered infant stool scale types 4-5B. LiveSpo CLAUSY supportive treatment achieved 3 days (p < 0.0001) faster recovery from diarrhea disease, with 1.6-fold improved treatment efficacy. At day 5 of treatment, a significant decrease in blood levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-17, and IL-23 by 3.24% (p = 0.0409), 29.76% (p = 0.0001), and 10.87% (p = 0.0036), respectively, was observed in the Clausy group. Simultaneously, there was a significant 37.97% decrease (p = 0.0326) in the excreted IgA in stool at day 5 in the Clausy group. Overall, the clinical study demonstrates the efficacy of B. clausii spores (LiveSpo CLAUSY) as an effective symptomatic treatment and immunomodulatory agent for persistent diarrhea in children.

Trial registration: NCT05812820.