bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic Diversity inPorphyromonas: Evidence ofP. catoniaeCommensality in Lungs
Authors: Velo-Suarez Lourdes , Moalic Yann , Guilloux Charles-Antoine , Ame Jacky , Lamoureux Claudie , Gouriou Stéphanie , Le Berre Rozenn , Beauruelle Clémence , Héry-Arnaud Geneviève
Published: November 2024

2.

Data on the genomics ofPorphyromonasspecies other thanPorphyromonas gingivalis(POTG), particularly within pulmonary environments, are scarce. In this study, we conducted whole genome sequencing (WGS) on pulmonary isolates of POTG, specificallyP. catoniae(n=3),P. pasteri(n=1), andP. uenonis(n=2), from people with cystic fibrosis. These genomic analyses were complemented with antimicrobial susceptibility tests for these strains.

We compared the genomic sequences of these pulmonary isolates with those of previously characterizedPorphyromonasspecies. Our study revealed a distinct clade differentiation between non-pigmented and pigmentedPorphyromonasspecies. Interestingly, unlikeP. gingivalis, the pulmonary POTG strains lacked known virulence genes, except a putative hemolysin gene. Regarding antibiotic resistance, notable resistances were limited to vancomycin inP. catoniaeand clindamycin inP. uenonis.

These findings support the hypothesis that POTG species may predominantly behave as commensals in the lung environment rather than as pathogens.

3.

Impact statement

Porphyromonasconstitutes a prevalent genus of anaerobic bacteria within the respiratory tract. Despite its ubiquity, the precise taxonomic delineation ofPorphyromonasspecies implicated in respiratory conditions needs to be better defined, as most microbiome analyses report results only at the genus level. Consequently, data about these pulmonary species often default to associations withPorphyromonas gingivalis, a well-characterized oral pathogen. In this study, we sequenced the complete genomes of sixPorphyromonasstrains isolated from the airway microbiota of people with cystic fibrosis (CF) to enhance the representation and identification ofPorphyromonasother thangingivalis(POTG) species. Our phylogenomic analysis aimed to elucidate the diversity within pulmonary POTG. Notably, genomes of the commensal speciesPorphyromonas catoniaeisolated from CF patients did not harbor virulence genes typically associated withP. gingivalis. Additionally, phenotypic resistance profiling against nine clinically relevant antibiotics revealed low resistance levels, notwithstanding the frequent antibiotic treatments administered to CF patients. Our findings provide compelling evidence for the non-pathogenic role of these POTG species in the pulmonary environment.

4.

Data summary

SixPorphyromonasgenomes generated in this study are available in the Sequence Read Archive and GenBank databases under BioProject accession PRJEB75658.

The raw data set generated during the current study is available in the European Nucleotide Archive (repository with the project accession number.

The authors confirm that all supporting data, code, and protocols have been provided within the article or through supplementary data files.
Predicting Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Diagnosis Using Primary Care Variables and Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Santos Dheiver Francisco
Published: November 2024

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) affects many adults over the age of 50. Part of its incidence in the population is attributed to work and exposure to risk factors such as silica dust, and anticipating the diagnosis can prevent its worsening. This study aims to identify patients at higher risk of having a positive COPD diagnosis using variables routinely collected in primary care. A total of 120,294 participants from the UK Biobank database, recruited between 2006 and 2010, were analyzed. Of these, 1,837 (1.5%) had a positive COPD diagnosis. A total of 20 variables, including demographic data, laboratory tests, habits, and symptoms, were selected to build predictive models of COPD using five machine learning algorithms (artificial neural networks, extra trees, random forests, catboost, and extreme gradient boosting). Additionally, a subset of 7,628 participants with a history in the construction and mining industries was selected to train a specialized model. Among them, 248 (3.25%) had a positive diagnosis. Data were randomly divided, with 70% allocated for training the models and 30% for performance testing. Both models showed good predictive performance. The general model achieved an AUC of 0.847, sensitivity of 0.786, and specificity of 0.765. In the specialist model, an AUC of 0.830, sensitivity of 0.773, and specificity of 0.773 were obtained. The five main predictive variables were chronic cough, age, history of asthma, sputum production, and tobacco exposure. The results demonstrate that it is possible to predict the individual risk of COPD diagnosis using variables commonly collected in primary care.
Leveraging Electronic Health Records to Investigate Sex Differences in Oral Diseases and Conditions
Authors: Fetchko E. , Sangalli L. , Letra A.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Sexual dimorphism has been shown to influence disease predisposition and/or progression, however, studies addressing sex-based differences in dental, oral, and craniofacial (DOC) diseases and conditions are scarce. This study aimed to identify DOC diseases and conditions likely influenced by sexual dimorphism using two large data repositories.

Methods

Retrospective study of medical/dental record data obtained from adult participants (>18 years old) in the NIHAll of UsResearch Program (n=254,700) and the BigMouth Data Repository (n ≈ 4.7 million). The number of males and females presenting each selected DOC disease concept in each database was recorded. Sex-specific association analysis for each concept was performed using chi-square tests (α ≦ 0.0002). Female-to-male odds ratio (OR) and confidence intervals were also calculated.

Results

The initial search inAll of Usand BigMouth yielded 216 and 243 DOC concepts, respectively. Eighty-seven of 216 dental concepts identified inAll of Ushad sex-stratified data. Of these, significant sex-related differences were found for 61/87 concepts (70%), with 33 concepts (54%) showing female bias and 28 (46%) showing male bias (P≦ 0.0002). Higher female bias was noted for ‘diseases of oral soft tissues’, ‘disorders of tooth development and eruption’, and ‘diseases of pulpal/periapical tissues’, whereas higher male bias was noted for ‘gingival and periodontal diseases’, ‘dental caries’, and ‘malignant tumor of oral cavity’(P≦ 0.0002). Analysis of BigMouth data showed sex bias for 90/230 (39%) concepts investigated, of which 87 (97%) showed female bias and 3 (3%) showed male bias (P≦ 0.0002). Discordant sex bias results among the databases were noted for 8 concepts.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence of sex bias in numerous DOC diseases and conditions in the populations studied. Additional studies in other populations and considering sociodemographic factors might provide further insight into the role of sexual dimorphism in DOC diseases.
Association Between Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Use and Perioperative Aspiration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Elkin Jasmin , Rele Siddharth , Sumithran Priya , Hii Michael , Thuraisingam Sharmala , Spelman Tim , Phan Tuong , Choong Peter , Dowsey Michelle , Shadbolt Cade
Published: November 2024

Background

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are known to slow gastric emptying, however the association between GLP-1 RA use and perioperative aspiration risk is not known. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarise the evidence on whether GLP-1 RA exposure is associated with (1) pulmonary aspiration in patients undergoing procedures requiring anaesthesia or sedation, or (2) increased residual gastric contents among fasted patients.

Methods

A search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane CentralClinicalTrials.govand WHO ICTRP registries (updated 13 Jan 2025), and citation tracking of included studies was performed (14 Jan 2025). Studies assessing perioperative pulmonary aspiration or residual gastric contents among fasted patients who were using any form of GLP-1 RA were included. Data was extracted independently and in duplicate. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) were estimated for each outcome using random effect meta-analysis. Certainty of the evidence for each outcome was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation framework.

Results

Of 9,010 screened studies, 28 observational studies were included in the analysis. In a meta-analysis of 9 studies involving 304,060 individuals and 481 cases of aspiration, GLP-1RA exposure was not associated with pulmonary aspiration (OR, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.87-1.25, low certainty evidence). In a meta-analysis of 18 studies involving 165,522 individuals and 3,831 cases of residual gastric contents, GLP-1RA exposure was positively associated with residual gastric contents despite appropriate fasting (OR, 5.96; 95% CI, 3.96-8.98, low certainty evidence). In a meta-analysis of 5 studies involving 1,706 individuals and 208 cases of residual gastric contents, withholding at least one dose of GLP-1 RA prior to a procedure was associated with a lower odds of residual gastric contents (OR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.33-0.81, very low certainty evidence). No studies measured the association between the time since last dose of GLP-1 RA and pulmonary aspiration.

Conclusions

Patients using GLP-1RAs are at heightened risk of presenting to surgery with residual gastric contents, though the available evidence does not indicate that this translates to an elevated risk of aspiration. Further research is needed to evaluate the risks and benefits of different strategies for managing these medications during the perioperative period.
Attention bias at baseline does not moderate the effect of attention bias modification for depressive symptoms
Authors: Hagen Hallvard Solbø , Røssberg Jan Ivar , Harmer Catherine J. , Jonassen Rune , Landrø Nils Inge , Bø Ragnhild
Published: November 2024

Background

Clinical trials of Attention Bias Modification for depressive symptoms have consistently produced small effect sizes and mixed results. Therefore, identifying subpopulations for whom this intervention works has been called for. Considering the intended mechanism behind Attention Bias Modification, change of attentional bias, the level of bias at baseline may moderate its efficacy.

Methods

Participants with a history of depression (N=301) were randomized to receive two daily sessions of either Attention Bias Modification or sham for 14 days. A response-based attention bias score was calculated, and a moderator analysis was run at post-intervention and 1-month follow-up measured by change in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Beck Depression Inventory II, respectively.

Results

Baseline attention bias did not significantly moderate the effect of Attention Bias Modification on any of the time points or depression measures.

Conclusions

Baseline attentional bias was not found useful for characterizing subgroups more likely to benefit from ABM for depressive symptoms.
A CRISPR-Cas9 assisted analysis of single-cell microbiomes for identifying rare bacterial taxa in phycospheres of diatoms
Authors: Schulte-Hillen Ruben , Giesler Jakob K. , Mock Thomas , Belshaw Nigel , John Uwe , Harder Tilmann , Kühne Nancy , Neuhaus Stefan , Wohlrab Sylke
Published: November 2024

Primary production in aquatic systems is governed by interactions between microalgae and their associated bacteria. Most of our knowledge about algal microbiomes stems from natural mixed communities or isolated algal monocultures, which therefore does neither address the role of genotypic diversity among the algal host cells nor do they reveal how this host diversity impacts the assembly process of associated bacteria. To overcome this knowledge gap, we developed a single-cell 16S sequencing approach in combination with CRISPR-Cas9 guided depletion of host 16S contaminations from the chloroplast. The validity of this novel method was tested by comparing bacterial communities of 144 single-cells across three genotypes of the Arctic marine diatomThalassiosira gravidagrown under different environmental conditions. From these, 62 single-cells were additionally sequenced after CRISPR-Cas9 treatment. Due to the improved sequencing depth, bacterial richness associated with individual diatom cells was increased by up to 56%. By applying this CRISPR-Cas9 treatment we not only revealed intraspecific host-genotype associations but also rare bacterial taxa that were not detected by standard 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding. Thus, the CRISPR-Cas9 assisted single-cell approach developed in this study advances our understanding on how the intraspecific diversity among algal hosts impacts the assembly process of their associated bacteria. This knowledge is essential to understand the co-evolution and adaptation of species in algal microbiomes.
Programmable protein degraders enable selective knockdown of pathogenic β-catenin subpopulationsin vitroandin vivo
Authors: Ye Tianzheng , Alamgir Azmain , Robertus Cara M. , Colina Darianna , Monticello Connor , Donahue Thomas Connor , Hong Lauren , Vincoff Sophia , Goel Shrey , Fekkes Peter , Camargo Luis Miguel , Lam Kieu , Heyes James , Putnam David , Alabi Christopher A. , Chatterjee Pranam , DeLisa Matthew P.
Published: November 2024

Aberrant activation of Wnt signaling results in unregulated accumulation of cytosolic β-catenin, which subsequently enters the nucleus and promotes transcription of genes that contribute to cellular proliferation and malignancy. Here, we sought to eliminate pathogenic β-catenin from the cytosol using designer ubiquibodies (uAbs), chimeric proteins composed of an E3 ubiquitin ligase and a target-binding domain that redirect intracellular proteins to the proteasome for degradation. To accelerate uAb development, we leveraged a protein language model (pLM)-driven algorithm called SaLT&PepPr to computationally design “guide” peptides with affinity for β-catenin, which were subsequently fused to the catalytic domain of a human E3 called C-terminus of Hsp70-interacting protein (CHIP). Expression of the resulting peptide-guided uAbs in colorectal cancer cells led to the identification of several designs that significantly reduced the abnormally stable pool of free β-catenin in the cytosol and nucleus while preserving the normal membrane-associated subpopulation. This selective knockdown of pathogenic β-catenin suppressed Wnt/β-catenin signaling and impaired tumor cell survival and proliferation. Furthermore, one of the best degraders selectively decreased cytosolic but not membrane-associated β-catenin levels in livers of BALB/c mice following delivery as a lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-encapsulated mRNA. Collectively, these findings reveal the unique ability of uAbs to selectively eradicate abnormal proteinsin vitroandin vivoand open the door to peptide-programmable biologic modulators of other disease-causing proteins.
Cholesterol metabolism and intrabacterial potassium homeostasis are intrinsically related inMycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Chen Yue , Hagopian Berge , Tan Shumin
Published: November 2024

Potassium (K+) is the most abundant intracellular cation, but much remains unknown regarding how K+homeostasis is integrated with other key bacterial biology aspects. Here, we show that K+homeostasis disruption (CeoBC K+uptake system deletion) impedesMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) response to, and growth in, cholesterol, a critical carbon source during infection, with K+augmenting activity of the Mtb ATPase MceG that is vital for bacterial cholesterol import. Reciprocally, cholesterol directly binds to CeoB, modulating its function, with a residue critical for this interaction identified. Finally, cholesterol binding-deficient CeoB mutant Mtb are attenuated for growth in lipid-rich foamy macrophages andin vivocolonization. Our findings raise the concept of a role for cholesterol as a key co-factor, beyond its role as a carbon source, and illuminate how changes in bacterial intrabacterial K+levels can act as part of the metabolic adaptation critical for bacterial survival and growth in the host.
Processing reliant on granule cells is essential for motor learning but dispensable for many cerebellar-dependent behaviors
Authors: Lee Joon-Hyuk , Guo Chong , Wu Shuting , Norton Aliya , Seo Soobin , Yao Zhiyi , Regehr Wade G.
Published: November 2024

Cerebellar dysfunction leads to motor, learning, emotional, and social deficits. It is assumed that these deficits arise from impaired processing of mossy fiber inputs that activate granule cells (GCs) that in turn excite Purkinje cells (PCs). However, high-frequency spontaneous PC firing might also influence behaviors. To clarify how the cerebellum regulates behaviors, we compared the effects of disrupting either GC signaling, which selectively perturbs cerebellar processing, or PC signaling, which disrupts cerebellar processing and spontaneous PC firing. We find that both GC and PC signaling are required for eyeblink conditioning and vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) learning. However, disrupting PC signaling impairs baseline VOR, anxiety, and social behaviors, but abolishing GC signaling does not. This establishes that cerebellar processing is essential for motor learning, but is not required for many cerebellum-dependent behaviors. This suggests that such behaviors could be rescued by elevating firing in downstream targets, as shown previously for social deficits.
De novodesign of triosephosphate isomerases using generative language models
Authors: Romero-Romero Sergio , Braun Alexander E. , Kossendey Timo , Ferruz Noelia , Schmidt Steffen , Höcker Birte
Published: November 2024

The design of proteins with tailored functions is of immense interest to biotechnology, medicine, and the chemical industry. While protein design is rapidly evolving with the use of AI techniques, the design of complex enzymes remains a challenge. Here, we present the use of two large language models (LLMs), ZymCTRL and ProtGPT2, for the generation of de novo enzymes that catalyze the triosephosphate isomerase (TIM) reaction. Natural TIM enzymes are obligatory oligomers that catalyze a multi-step isomerization reaction near the diffusion limit. This makes TIM an ideal target to assess the generative ability of protein language models. Newly generated sequences were filtered to obtain a set of twelve candidates from each approach for experimental validation. Multiple constructs from both language models exhibit the intended function in vivo through their ability to complement a TIM-deficient E. coli strain. In-depth characterization of the best-behaving artificial enzyme reveals behavior and catalytic efficiency close to its natural counterparts. These findings support the use of conditional and fine-tuned unconditional LLMs for the generation of complex enzymes.
Synchronous processing of temporal information across the hippocampus, striatum, and orbitofrontal cortex
Authors: Shimbo Akihiro , Sekine Yukiko , Kashiwagi Saori , Fujisawa Shigeyoshi
Published: November 2024

Information processing for interval timing is supported by several brain regions, including the hippocampus, basal ganglia, and frontal cortical areas. However, little is known about the mechanism by which temporal information is processed cooperatively in the distributed brain network. Here, we investigated the neuronal processing of temporal information in the hippocampal CA1, dorsal striatum, and orbitofrontal cortex by simultaneously recording neuronal activity during a temporal bisection task. We found time cells representing elapsed time during the interval period across all three regions. Seeking a potential mechanism for the correlative representation of time, we found that theta oscillations were dominant in these areas and modulated the activity of these time cells. Moreover, the synchronization of the time cell pairs across the areas was also regulated by theta oscillations. Taken together, these results demonstrated the presence of synchronous activity of time cells across the three areas on a fine time scale, which was supported by theta oscillations. In addition, decoding analysis revealed that the activity of the time cells in these areas correlated with the rats’ decisions based on their internal time estimation, with the decoded time also showing correlations across the three regions. Thus, the cooperative activity of time-cell assemblies in the three regions reflected the recognition of elapsed time in the rats. In conclusion, these results demonstrate the pivotal role of neuronal synchronization of time cells in supporting temporal processing in the distributed brain network.
Identification of a sub-population of synovial mesenchymal stem cells with enhanced treatment efficacy in a rat model of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Al-Jezani Nedaa , Affan Asmaa , Leonard Catherine , Das Nabangshu , Almeida Luiz Gustavo , Young Daniel , Masson Anand O. , Dufour Antoine , Salo Paul , Railton Pam , Powell James N. , Krawetz Roman J.
Published: November 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a painful and debilitating disease which has no cure and there are no treatments which can predictably stop/reverse its progression. Treating this disease is particularly difficult since the articular cartilage lacks intrinsic repair capacity even though mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are present in the joint environment and have robust chondrogenic potential. We have previously shown that there is heterogeneity of MSC sub-types within the human synovium, yet it remains unclear if any of these MSC types can regenerate cartilage and/or impact OA disease progression. Therefore, we have undertaken this study focusing on clonally derived MSC populations derived from the synovium of normal and OA patients to characterize if any MSC populations can positively impact OA disease trajectory in a rat model of OA.

MSCs were clonally isolated by indexed flow cytometry, expanded in culture and then characterized for differentiation capacity and by quantitative proteomics. MSC clones were then transplanted into a xenograft rat OA model and treatment effect was determined by histology and immunofluorescence outcomes. We identified heterogeneity in putative MSCs derived from within and between patient groups (normal vs. OA) and the ability of these cells to effect repair in a rat OA model. However, these different sub-types of MSCs could not be distinguished by traditional cell surface markers showing the need for a better understanding of these populations at the single cell level. Using an unbiased proteomics approach, CD47 was identified a novel marker of human MSCs. Using the same rat model of OA, CD47Hiexpressing cells were found to have robust treatment efficacy and directly contributed to the formation of new articular cartilage tissue. Characterizing MSCs is essential to understand which sub-types are appropriate for further clinical investigation. If OA patients still have functional MSCs in their synovium, then it is possible these cells can be exploited for cartilage regeneration / OA treatment strategies.
Absence of CDK12 in oocyte leads to female infertility
Authors: Jansova Denisa , Sedmikova Veronika , Berro Fatima J. , Aleskhina Daria , Dvoran Michal , Kubelka Michal , Rezacova Jitka , Rutarova Jana , Kohutek Jiri , Susor Andrej
Published: November 2024

Transcriptional activity and gene expression are essential for the development of a mature, meiotically competent oocyte. We have found that the absence of cyclin-dependent kinase 12 (CDK12) in oocytes leads to complete female sterility, as there are no fully developed oocytes able to accomplish meiosis I in the ovaries. Mechanistically, CDK12 in growing oocytes controls POLII activity and maintenance of the physiological maternal transcriptome, which negatively affects protein synthesis that promotes further oocyte growth. In addition, disruption of oocyte development disrupts folliculogenesis, resulting in a premature failure phenotype without terminal folliculogenesis and ovulation. In summary, we have characterized a single master regulator of the oocyte transcriptional program and gene expression that is essential for oocyte growth and female fertility.

Graphical Abstract
Value co-creation in live streaming through tourism scenes: a contextual marketing perspective
Authors: Yu Jun , Xie Chaowu , Huang Songshan
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify a value co-creation framework for live streaming through tourism scenes (LStTS). It also clarifies the value attributes of LStTS and makes an empirical test.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a mixed-method approach. In Study 1, a total of 12,216 pieces of viewers’ comments and ten web news reports were coded and analyzed employing a grounded theory approach. In Study 2, data were collected from 587 Douyin e-commerce users. Exploratory factor analysis and partial least squares structural equation modeling were used to test the value co-creation framework of LStTS.

Findings

In Study 1, six value attributes in three categories were identified based on a content analysis of viewers’ comments. In Study 2, a three-order factorial model of value co-creation in LStTS was identified and tested.

Research limitations/implications

Our study is limited by the preponderance of female respondents in the sample and the unique nature of the research context.

Practical implications

Merchants and streamers should consider whether there is a fit between the merchandise and the tourism scene when selecting the tourism scene for live streaming marketing; they can select novel and beautiful natural tourism scenes to attract viewers. Detailed and comprehensive product information should be provided in the process of live streaming marketing and sharing with consumers.

Originality/value

The novelty of our study lies in the provision of a new value co-creation framework in LStTS, which offers a theoretical basis for analyzing the value of the tourism scene in live streaming marketing.
Monetary policy and corporate investment: evidence from India
Authors: Bagow Sajad , Altaf Nufazil
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of quantity-based and price-based monetary policy on corporate investment in India. Also the study investigates the impact of firm-level factors on corporate investment under quantity-based and price-based monetary policy.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on sample of 3,782 non-financial Indian firms (45,238 observations) and the data has been collected for a period 2000–2023. The study applies instrument variable approach to arrive at the results.

Findings

The study finds that both quantity-based and price-based monetary policy significantly affects corporate investment of firms and the transmission of monetary policy to corporate investment is constrained by firm-specific factors. This paper find that firm-specific factors play a significant role in transmitting the effects of both quantity-based as well as price-based monetary policy respectively and such results have also been witnessed across manufacturing and non-manufacturing sectors.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study in the Indian context that examines the impact of quantity-based and price-based monetary policy on corporate investment.
Multiple environmental regulations and green technology innovation: a boundary theory perspective
Authors: Luo Qingfeng , Zhao Xi
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Based on boundary theory, the authors try to clarify the boundaries of multiple environmental regulations. This paper aims to explore the strategic choices of multiple environmental regulations, analyze their spatial impact on green technology innovation and clarify the implementation priorities of multiple environmental regulations in various regions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors construct an asymmetric response model based on the boundary theory perspective to analyze the strategic choices of different environmental regulations. In addition, dynamic spatial econometric methods are used to empirically analyze the differentiated regulatory boundaries of command-control type, market-incentive and voluntary-participation in environmental regulations and their spatial effects on green technology innovation.

Findings

Strict compulsory boundaries are formed in China when the command-control and market-incentive types are selected in a dynamic spatial and competitive game environment. When voluntary participation is selected, strict compulsory or loose basic boundaries are formed in each region. The command-control type is highly dependent on geographical distance, the market-incentive type is more dependent on an economic connection and the voluntary-participation type has obvious spatial spillover effects under the spatial weight matrix of geographical distance and economic connection. When Eastern China chooses voluntary participation in environmental regulation, the incentive effect on green technology innovation is the strongest. Middle China is the market-incentive type, and Western China is the command-control type. Command-control type and market-incentive type form strong complementary effects in dynamic spatial environments.

Originality/value

From the boundary theory perspective, this study analyzes the differentiated dynamic spatial boundaries of command-control, market-incentive and voluntary-participation in environmental regulations. Analyze the spatial impact of multiple environmental regulations on green technology innovation and clarify the implementation priorities of multiple environmental regulations in various regions.
Disentangling direct and indirect effects of forest structure on biodiversity: Bottom‐up and top‐down effects between forestry, bats and their insect prey
Authors: Hendel Anna‐Lena , Douma Jacob C. , Klingenfuß Sara , Pereira João M. C. , Ruppert Laura , Spînu Andreea P. , Frey Julian , Denter Martin , Liu Xiang , Storch Ilse , Klein Alexandra M. , Braunisch Veronika
Published: November 2024

Timber‐oriented forest management profoundly alters forest structure and composition, with complex effects on associated biodiversity. However, while species' responses to forest management and resulting structural characteristics have been the subject of numerous studies, direct and indirect effects that cascade through trophic levels are rarely disentangled. As insectivorous bats are particularly sensitive to changes in forest structure, that shape their available flight space, we investigated how forest structure, composition and management also indirectly modify their habitats, for example, by affecting important insect prey groups.

We used structural equation models (SEMs) to test bat responses to forest composition, structure (forest heterogeneity, old‐growth attributes) and management intensity, quantifying direct and indirect prey‐mediated effects. For that, three bat guilds—short‐ (SRE), mid‐ (MRE) and long‐range echolocating (LRE) bats—and their prey insects (moths and ground beetles) were analysed from 64 sites in the Black Forest, Germany.

We found guild‐specific effects on bats: While the structural heterogeneity of forests directly influenced the activity of bat guilds, the main influence of forest management, composition and structure was mediated through their prey‐groups.

SRE activity responded to moths and LRE activity was associated with ground beetles, with positive effects of the insect groups' abundance, but negative effects of the same group's species richness. In addition, the SEM approach revealed a negative top‐down relationship between MRE activities and moths, suggesting predation or avoidance behaviour of moths.

While forest management directly or indirectly increased prey insect abundance, it negatively affected the availability of roosting structures for bats.

Synthesis and applications. The results highlight the indirect and positive effects of forest management on bats and support the important role of bats in insect regulation within continuous cover forests. Although forest management created small gaps that improved foraging habitats for most bats, it compromised the roosting functionality for bats. The ‘close‐to‐nature forestry’ currently prevalent in Europe mainly promotes continuous‐cover forests in mid‐successional stages. Expanding the forest management portfolio towards open and old‐growth forests would increase roosting opportunities and provide complementary foraging habitats for different bat species, while promoting high biodiversity in managed forest landscapes.
The context‐dependent benefits of organic farming on pollinator biodiversity: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Walker Emily , Wooliver Rachel , Russo Laura , Jagadamma Sindhu
Published: November 2024

Agricultural intensification is driving declines in pollinator diversity and the degradation of pollination services worldwide. Organic management, which prohibits the use of synthetic inputs, has considerable potential for combatting these declines by enhancing biodiversity in agricultural landscapes. However, the efficacy of organic farming for promoting pollinator diversity has recently been questioned.

We conducted a meta‐analysis to determine the effect of organic management on pollinator species richness and abundance. We compiled 42 studies across four continents and calculated a Hedges' g effect size for each of 76 species richness and 57 abundance observations. We then estimated average effect sizes overall and across five moderators.

Species richness and abundance of pollinating insects tended to be higher in organic farms than conventional ones, with average effect sizes of 0.68 and 0.74, respectively. Landscape context, crop type, pollinator group, sampling location, and sampling method were factors impacting the response of pollinator diversity/abundance to organic farming.

We found benefits for pollinator diversity from organic farming in all landscape types, with the strongest response in simple compared with more complex landscapes. Pollinator diversity benefited the most in habitats within organic cereal systems and the least in organic pastures. Among pollinator groups, bumblebee diversity benefitted the most, while moths and hoverflies showed positive but non‐significant responses. Higher pollinator diversity/abundance was detected in organic farms at various sampling locations. Transect sampling showed the greatest diversity gains among sampling methods.

Synthesis and applications. Our results affirm that organic farming has positive effects for pollinator species richness and abundance, but benefits are variable and not guaranteed. We recommend that future studies adopt a standard sampling protocol and cover a larger geographic range to understand the global potential of organic farming to promote pollinator biodiversity. Efforts to increase pollinator abundance and diversity through organic farming should focus on organic systems involving cereal phases, especially within simple landscapes, for the most positive outcomes. However, due to high variability in pollinator responses alongside the challenges to achieve economic profitability from organic farming, crafting organic farming systems to specific farm‐scale opportunities and needs may be necessary.
Lorlatinib overcomes alectinib‐induced hemolytic anemia in an ALK fusion positive non‐small‐cell lung cancer patient with severe tumor‐associated liver failure: A case report
Authors: Kunimasa Kei , Miyazaki Akito , Tamiya Motohiro , Inoue Takako , Kawamura Takahisa , Tanaka Tsunehiro , Futamura Shun , Komuta Kiyohide , Nagata Shigenori , Honma Keiichiro , Ohkawa Kazuyoshi , Nishino Kazumi
Published: November 2024

Hemolytic anemia is a rare and unique complication of alectinib, not observed with other anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitors. Here, we present a case of an ALK fusion‐positive non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patient who developed liver failure due to diffuse liver metastasis at initial diagnosis. Treatment was initiated with low‐dose alectinib, but the patient developed severe hemolytic anemia. Switching to lorlatinib allowed for the continuation of ALK inhibitor therapy and successful tumor reduction. ALK inhibitors are crucial for ALK fusion‐positive NSCLC patients. Managing severe side effects by switching medications is essential to maintain effective therapy. In this case, lorlatinib effectively controlled the tumor and improved the patient's liver function and performance status. This case highlights the importance of adapting treatment strategies to manage adverse effects while ensuring the continued use of ALK inhibitors for optimal patient outcomes.
A meta‐analysis on racial discrimination and alcohol use among Asian Americans
Authors: Liu Melissa A. , Fox Taylor , Salyers Michelle , Zapolski Tamika , Cyders Melissa A.
Published: November 2024

Background

Racial discrimination has been identified as a contributing risk factor for alcohol use among racially minoritized individuals. The aims of this study were to quantify the relationship between racial discrimination and alcohol use among Asian Americans, examine gender, age and generational status as moderators, and characterize ethnic group representation across the literature.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted using PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and OpenDissertations. A random effects model using Pearson's r effect sizes was conducted on separate alcohol outcomes. Meta‐regression analyses tested for moderating effects, and heterogeneity was examined by identifying outliers and subgroup differences. Risk of bias was assessed using a funnel plot and Egger's regression test.

Results

Twenty‐two effect sizes were extracted from 18 studies, representing 8926 participants. A significant positive association was found between racial discrimination and alcohol consumption (k = 9, r = 0.13, 95% CI = [0.07, 0.19], I2 = 80.7%, p = 0.002) and problematic alcohol use (k = 12, r = 0.27, 95% CI = [0.12, 0.40] I2 = 93.7%, p = 0.002), but not binge use (k = 3, r = 0.08, 95% CI = [−0.49, 0.60], I2 = 95.0%, p = 0.64). Age, gender, and generational status were not significant moderators (p's > 0.10). When ethnic groups were reported, Chinese Americans were most represented (36.9%), while Indian Americans were notably underrepresented (1.18%).

Conclusions

There is a small positive association between racial discrimination and alcohol consumption and problematic alcohol use among Asian Americans. Research should seek to fill gaps identified by this review, including the dearth of longitudinal work needed to establish temporal precedence, the limited understanding of racial discrimination on binge use and underrepresented ethnic groups in this field of research, and reducing heterogeneity between studies.
Robotic surgery versus laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer: a comparative study on surgical safety and functional outcomes
Authors: TengTeng Li , HaiXiao Fu , Wei Fu , Xuan Zhang
Published: November 2024

Backgrounds

This study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy and functional outcomes of DA Vinci (Xi)‐assisted surgery compared to conventional laparoscopic surgery for middle and low rectal cancer, focusing on oncologic cure and functional preservation.

Methods

Between December 2020 and June 2021, 102 patients with middle and low rectal cancer (tumour lower margin ≤10 cm) were enrolled at the affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University. Participants were divided into two groups: robot‐assisted (n = 51) and laparoscopy‐assisted (n = 51). Each group underwent a radical resection using their assigned method. Clinical and functional outcomes were analysed post‐surgery.

Results

Preoperative data did not differ significantly between groups (P > 0.05). All surgeries were successfully completed without conversion to open surgery. The robotic group experienced significantly less intraoperative blood loss (55.2 ± 29.8 mL vs. 109.5 ± 58.5 mL) and faster recovery in gastrointestinal function (35.1 ± 9.4 h vs. 40.7 ± 1.9 h), diet recovery (2.1 ± 0.8 days vs. 2.9 ± 0.4 days), and catheter removal (2.9 ± 2.7 days vs. 5.3 ± 2.1 days). The robotic group also dissected more lymph nodes (23 ± 6 vs. 15 ± 4). However, they had longer operative times (239.8 ± 29.6 min vs. 141.1 ± 18.5 min) and higher hospital costs. Satisfaction levels regarding defecation, voiding, and sexual functions were notably higher in the robotic group.

Conclusion

No significant differences in surgical safety or immediate postoperative outcomes were observed between robotic and laparoscopic approaches. However, robotic surgery demonstrated superior lymph node dissection, anal function preservation, and gastrointestinal recovery, enhancing overall functional outcomes.
Parents' experiences of their children's obesity management at the children's hospital on Reunion Island
Authors: Lebleu Mary , Druilhe Loic , Palma Vanessa , Lebeau Jean‐Pierre
Published: November 2024

Aim

Parents' perspectives on their child's obesity (BMI >IOTF‐30) management are essential to ensure positive outcomes. This study explored parents' experiences in managing their children's obesity and investigated the sociocultural and environmental factors influencing such management on Reunion Island, a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean.

Methods

This qualitative study used a general inductive analysis approach. Semi‐structured telephone interviews were conducted from France, between January and April 2019, with nine parents of children treated in the Childhood Obesity Unit of the Children's Hospital on Reunion Island. The interviews were analysed by using thematic analysis until data saturation.

Results

Four main themes emerged reflecting the stages of parents' experiences during treatment: a life history with feelings of justification and guilt, acceptance, involvement and activism. Cultural food traditions were a barrier to implementing healthier habits. Support and advice from the healthcare services alleviated feelings of isolation and motivated parents to be more proactive in their children's obesity management. Parents' involvement motivated their children and improved their relationships.

Conclusions

Parent's involvement is essential in managing children's obesity. To maximise treatment outcomes, tailored interventions that address parents' unique family dynamics and sociocultural perspectives are key.
Rural public investment and wage inequality under small‐scale agriculture modernization
Authors: Wang Dianshuang , Ji Luhan , Hu Zixin , Hu Lian
Published: November 2024

Increasing rural public investment is crucial for sustainable rural development and can be an effective approach for reducing inequality. However, wage inequality has increased in some developing countries (e.g., China) after increasing fiscal support. This study explores how rural public investment influences skilled‐unskilled wage inequality by incorporating agricultural modernization in small‐scale agriculture. Agricultural modernization refers to introducing modern non‐agricultural intermediate inputs in agriculture. Owing to the small scale of agriculture, an intermediate sector, the agricultural producer service sector, is required to facilitate this process. We establish a three‐sector general equilibrium model with a two‐layer vertical production structure and investigate the effects of increased public investment in rural areas on the wage inequality between skilled and unskilled labour. The theoretical results show that while more rural public investment raises the wages of both skilled and unskilled labour, it also increases wage inequality. Overall, this study explains why inequality widens as rural public investment increases.
Favourable Prognosis of Patients With Untreated HBeAg‐Negative Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection With HBsAg < 100 IU/mL
Authors: Wang Jian , Zhang Zhiyi , Yin Shengxia , Zhang Shaoqiu , Zhu Li , Pan Yifan , Fan Tao , Cao Fei , Xiong Ye , Jiang Chao , Wang Guiyang , Yang Yue , Jia Bei , Liu Jiacheng , Xia Juan , Yan Xiaomin , Li Jie , Zhu Chuanwu , Liu Xingxiang , Chen Yuxin , Wu Chao , Huang Rui
Published: November 2024

Background

Serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) < 100 IU/mL has been recently proposed as one of the key criteria of ‘partial cure’ in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We analysed the clinical prognosis of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐negative untreated patients with HBsAg < 100 IU/mL and normal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels.

Methods

Five hundred and twenty‐one untreated patients with HBeAg negativity, HBsAg < 100 IU/mL and normal ALT levels were included from three hospitals. Spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance, phase transition, liver fibrosis progression and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development were analysed.

Results

The median age was 43.0 years, and 62.2% of the patients were male. After a median follow‐up of 25.0 months, 52 (10.0%) patients achieved spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance. The annual HBsAg seroclearance rate is 4.2%. Patients with baseline HBsAg ≤ 10 IU/mL (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 3.490, p < 0.001) and male sex (aHR = 1.980, p = 0.041) were more likely to achieve HBsAg seroclearance. Only 4 (0.8%) and 23 (4.8%) patients transitioned to the immune escape phase and HBeAg‐negative indeterminate phase, respectively. Baseline serum HBsAg > 10 IU/mL (aHR = 3.846, p = 0.034) and detectable HBV DNA (aHR = 2.672, p = 0.023) were associated with transition to the HBeAg‐negative indeterminate phase. No patient developed HCC or had fatal outcomes.

Conclusions

HBeAg‐negative patients with serum HBsAg < 100 IU/mL and normal ALT levels had a favourable prognosis. HBsAg ≤ 10 IU/mL and male sex were associated with a higher rate of HBsAg seroclearance, while HBsAg > 10 IU/mL and detectable HBV DNA were associated with a higher risk of transition to the indeterminate phase.
Sociodemographic and Health‐Related Risk Factors Associated With Planned and Emergency Cesarean Births in Mexico
Authors: Contreras Jessica Irene , Suárez‐López Leticia , Hubert Celia
Published: November 2024

Background

Cesarean delivery is a contributing factor to many delivery care and postpartum maternal morbidities, especially when a cesarean delivery is unnecessary. Mexico has one of the highest cesarean birth rates in Latin America, and as such, our objective was to identify the sociodemographic, reproductive, maternal care, and health‐related characteristics associated with the prevalence of planned and emergency cesarean births in Mexico.

Methods

Using nationally representative data from a Mexican probabilistic survey (ENSANUT 2021), we examined and developed a cross‐sectional analysis of women aged 12 to 19 with a live‐birth and women 20 to 49 years who had their last live‐birth within five years before the survey (n = 1330). We used multinomial logistic regression analysis to examine predictors associated with planned and emergency cesarean births.

Results

The live‐births within our sample included 50.7% vaginal, 27.5% emergency cesarean births, and 21.8% planned cesarean births. Younger age groups at delivery, speaking an indigenous language, and receiving delivery care at open public services are negatively associated with having any cesarean birth. Receiving delivery care at private institutions and having hypertension during pregnancy increases the odds of having both planned and emergency cesarean births. Emergency cesarean births are positively associated with tertiary education and negatively correlated with the parity of three or more children, while planned cesarean births are more likely for women with a parity of two.

Discussion

Efforts to reduce unnecessary cesarean births should include evidence‐based medicine recommendations, actions to avoid the first cesarean birth, and providing pregnant women with counseling to support informed decisions.