bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concordant Signal of Genetic Variation Across Marker Densities in the Desert Annual Chylismia brevipes Is Linked With Timing of Winter Precipitation
Authors: Shryock Daniel F. , Lê Nila , DeFalco Lesley A. , Esque Todd C.
Published: December 2024

Climate change coupled with large‐scale surface disturbances necessitate active restoration strategies to promote resilient and genetically diverse native plant communities. However, scarcity of native plant materials hinders restoration efforts, leading practitioners to choose from potentially viable but nonlocal seed sources. Genome scans for genetic variation linked with selective environmental gradients have become a useful tool in such efforts, allowing rapid delineation of seed transfer zones along with predictions of genomic vulnerability to climate change. When properly applied, genome scans can reduce the risk of maladaptation due to mismatches between seed source and planting site. However, results are rarely replicated among complimentary data sources. Here, we compared RAD‐seq datasets with 819 and 2699 SNPs (in 625 and 356 individuals, respectively) from the Mojave Desert winter annual Chylismia brevipes. Overall, we found that the datasets consistently characterized both neutral population structure and genetic–environmental associations. Ancestry analyses indicated consistent spatial genetic structuring into four regional populations. We also detected a marked signal of isolation by resistance (IBR), wherein spatial genetic structure was better explained by habitat resistance than by geographic distance. Potentially adaptive loci identified from genome scans were associated with the same environmental gradients—fall precipitation, winter minimum temperature, and precipitation timing—regardless of dataset. Paired with our finding that habitat resistance best explained genetic divergence, our results suggest that isolation of populations within environmentally similar habitats—and subsequent local adaption along gradients parallel to these habitats—drive genome‐wide divergence in this species. Moreover, strong genetic associations with winter precipitation timing, along with forecasted shifts in precipitation regime due to midcentury climate change, could impact future population dynamics, habitat distribution, and genetic connectivity for C. brevipes populations within the Mojave Desert.
Free Falling: Fizzing Wild‐Caught Smallmouth Bass Results in the Inability to Control Buoyancy in Deep Water
Authors: Madden Jamie C. , LaRochelle Luc , Goodenough Alyssa M. , Danylchuk Andy J. , Cooke Steven J.
Published: December 2024

Fizzing, a somewhat controversial technique for mitigating barotrauma, uses hollow hypodermic needles to release gas from the swim bladder of fish. To isolate effects of fizzing, 106 smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) were caught from shallow water without barotrauma and tested to determine if they could effectively control their buoyancy after having their swim bladder fizzed or punctured by releasing them over shallow (10 m) or unsuitably deep (55 m) habitat. Depth and behavior were monitored with biologgers. Most fizzed (57%) and punctured (61%) fish were unable to regulate their buoyancy in deepwater, sinking to the bottom and appearing moribund. In shallow water, punctured smallmouth bass stayed higher in the water column (like controls), while many fizzed fish stayed on the bottom. Our results suggest that if smallmouth bass are fizzed and immediately released, precautions should be taken to ensure they are released in areas of appropriate water depths (< 10 m).
THE LEGACY OF TOLERATION: J. G. HERDER AND MOSES MENDELSSOHN'S DEFENCE OF PLURALISM
Authors: Almog Yael
Published: December 2024

Moses Mendelssohn's ‘Jerusalem, or on Religious Power and Judaism’ (1783) was a milestone in the promotion of religious toleration – a principle that is constitutive for human rights in their contemporary conception. This article argues that ‘Jerusalem’ borrows from a surprising source: Johann Gottfried Herder's world history, which is entrenched in Protestant theology. Herder's world history presents a non‐hierarchical consideration of peoples. In this framework, Herder called to revalorise oral cultures, previously considered as primitive, as assets for humankind. The article argues that Mendelssohn's promotion of religious toleration employs the logic of Herder's cultural pluralism. Similarly to Herder, Mendelssohn contends that traditional cultures foster a longstanding contribution to humankind. In this vein, Mendelssohn portrays Jewish ritual as exemplary of the vitality of orality. Tracing Herder's cultural pluralism in ‘Jerusalem’ resolves a major tension in Mendelssohn's promotion of toleration: the presentation of Judaism as a superior culture coincides with his call for a non‐hierarchical understanding of cultures.
Involving Knowledge Users in Health Services Research: Collective Reflections and Learning From a National Evaluation of Recurrent Miscarriage Services
Authors: Hennessy Marita , Dennehy Rebecca , O'Leary Hannah , O'Donoghue Keelin ,   RE:CURRENT Research Advisory Group
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Involving knowledge users in research can facilitate the translation of evidence into policy and practice. How to best involve and support various types of knowledge users, including patient and public involvement contributors, in research is an identified knowledge gap. We conducted a national evaluation of recurrent miscarriage care supported by a Research Advisory Group (convened in March 2020) comprising a range of knowledge users, including parent advocates and people involved in the management/provision of services. The Group met virtually nine times, and actively collaborated beyond this on various research activities across the project. In this paper, we share insights from our collective evaluation of these involvement efforts.

Methods

We drew on records kept over the timespan of the project to describe involvement activities and experiences. Advisory Group members participated in an electronic survey to assess their involvement experiences at two time points (February 2021 and May 2022); we analysed the results descriptively. In May 2022, we hosted a virtual World Café, comprising the Research Team and Advisory Group, to explore what worked well and what could have been improved regarding involvement activities within the project; we analysed this data thematically.

Results

Responses to both rounds of the survey were positive, with people reporting: their ability to discuss research issues, contribute to the research, express their own views; feeling valued as a partner; that they could bring their own ideas and values to the research; perceived potential to gain status, expertise, or credibility because of their involvement. Themes constructed from the Word Café discussions highlighted that structural and relational spaces shaped the accessibility and experience of involvement.

Conclusion

Members reported a positive and rewarding experience with a visible impact on the research process but highlighted issues with the feasibility and scope of the research protocol and challenges to autonomous involvement in aspects reliant on clinical expertise. Our analysis reinforces that the relational nature of involvement takes precedence over instrumental aspects or techniques. Realistic study protocols that allow time and space for the evolving nature of research with knowledge users, and institutional and financial support to facilitate meaningful involvement, are needed.

Patient or Public Contribution

People with lived experience of recurrent miscarriage/pregnancy loss were involved in this evaluation—as members of the RE:CURRENT Research Advisory Group, contributing to the methodology, evaluation activities, interpretation and reporting of findings and insights.
Government document citations in top nursing journals: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Dudash Andrew , Woods Stephen , Phillips Kathleen
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Citation analysis studies the use of citations found in various types of publications, including the use of government information, and can provide insight into research utilisation in nursing literature.

Method

Using citation analysis, this study examines the use, prevalence and jurisdiction of government information use among seven nursing research journals based on ranking criteria. Government information citations were identified across three types of articles: editorials, reviews and research articles.

Results

Nearly two‐thirds of the articles in this study cite some form of government information, and the average percentage of government citations is 5.38 of all citations. Government information was identified from national governments, inter‐governmental organizations and state and regional governments.

Discussion

Understanding the use, prevalence and jurisdiction of government information informs health information professionals allowing them to engage with nursing students and researchers about this important type of information and the types of articles that use government information.

Conclusion

Nursing researchers frequently cite government information in their work. This has implications for librarians, nursing researchers and health professionals. Understanding the intersection of government information and nursing research should inform future practice in evidence‐based nursing research and nursing education.
Exploring Migrant Mothers' Utilisation of Oral Health‐Related Information: A Qualitative Interview Study in the Swedish Context
Authors: Shmarina Elena , Stensson Malin , Jacobsson Brittmarie
Published: December 2024

Objective

To explore, as a part of oral health literacy conceptual content, how migrant mothers utilise oral health‐related information to maintain and promote oral health in their children.

Materials and Methods

In‐depth interviews were conducted with seven migrant mothers of children up to 10 years old resettled in Kalmar County, Sweden. The mothers had entered Sweden from 2015 onwards, and their native language was Somalian, Dari or Arabic. The participants were encouraged to describe their experiences seeking oral health information and oral health in general and dental health services. The interviews were analysed by qualitative content analysis with coding in categories, followed by formulating a main category.

Results

The findings revealed a main category—combining different ways of information utilisation. The main category captures the essence of the migrant mothers' various ways of using oral health‐related information in the Swedish context to maintain and promote oral health in their children. The main category draws upon four sub‐categories that emerged from the analysis: cognitive processing, decision‐making competencies, adapting to social norms and practical application.

Conclusions

The results provide an important insight into migrant mothers' approach to utilisation of oral health‐related information. This approach distinguished being rational and making logical connections, believing in their capacity to know what is right for their children and acting based on these beliefs, as well as adapting to prevailing social norms and applying information in specific use. This knowledge can be used to support parental oral health actions and conduct further research in this area.
The role of volunteer guardians as a key actor in providing social protection for unaccompanied minors in Italy
Authors: Peris Cancio Lluis Francesc
Published: December 2024

This article analyses the impact of the volunteer guardian role, as stipulated in Italy's Law no. 47/2017, on the reception of unaccompanied minors. The research, spanning 50 months from March 2018 to May 2019, focused on the metropolitan area of Rome. A combination of methodological tools, including participant observation, questionnaires, qualitative interviews, and focus groups, was employed to ensure comprehensive data collection. The research findings delineate the responsibilities of volunteer guardians, encompassing legal representation, educational support, and networking within the established system. Furthermore, the results integrate the perspectives of social workers and minors regarding the guardian's evolving role and elucidate the nature of relationships formed between these stakeholders. The involvement of multiple decision‐makers in the child's life, including voluntary guardians, social workers, foster care professionals, and juvenile judges, results in a diverse allocation of responsibilities and roles. These are continuously negotiated as part of a shared responsibility with a variable geometry.
Nursing Students' Knowledge, Attitudes and Beliefs About Testicular Cancer and Testicular Self‐Examination
Authors: Ursavaş Figen Erol , Kaya Çiğdem , Işeri Özge
Published: December 2024

What are the levels of knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of nursing students regarding testicular cancer and testicular self‐examination (TSE)? Is there a significant difference between male and female nursing students in terms of their knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about testicular cancer and TSE? Testicular cancer is the most common cancer affecting young men, yet awareness and knowledge about the disease and early detection methods, such as TSE, remain insufficient among men. Nurses play a critical role in raising awareness and addressing gaps in knowledge about testicular cancer and TSE. This study aims to assess nursing students' knowledge, attitudes and health beliefs concerning testicular cancer and TSE, as well as the factors influencing these outcomes. Nursing students are the future of the nursing profession, and it is essential to address any gaps in their knowledge during their training to ensure they are well‐prepared for their roles in patient education and care. This study employed a descriptive, correlational and multicentred design. The sample consisted of 524 nursing students. The inclusion criteria were being enrolled in the 2nd, 3rd or 4th year of a nursing program. Data were collected through an online survey using Google Forms. Statistical analysis was conducted using chi‐squared tests, independent t‐tests, correlation coefficients, and multiple linear regression to examine the relationships between the variables. The study revealed that both female and male nursing students had low average knowledge scores concerning testicular cancer and TSE. However, a significant gender difference was observed in previous awareness of testicular cancer, with females demonstrating higher levels of awareness compared to their male counterparts. Among the independent variables included in the model, perceived benefits and health motivation had a significant positive effect on male students' knowledge about testicular cancer (β = 0.039, p = 0.018), while perceived barriers had a significant negative effect (β = −0.064, p = 0.002). These variables were statistically significant predictors of male students' knowledge about testicular cancer. The study determined that nursing students' knowledge and attitudes regarding testicular cancer and TSE were low. Among the subscales of the Health Beliefs Scale, the highest mean score was observed for the ‘seriousness’ subscale, while the lowest was for the ‘health motivation’ subscale. Due to the structure of the scale, it was only applicable to male students, which prevented the assessment of female students' beliefs and influencing factors, representing a significant limitation of this research. To ensure nursing students graduate with sufficient knowledge about testicular cancer and TSE, it is recommended to integrate educational and awareness initiatives, such as projects, seminars and public service announcements, into undergraduate nursing curricula.
Survival of Partial Coverage Restorations on Posterior Teeth—A Scoping Review
Authors: Prott L. S. , Klein P. , Spitznagel F. A. , Blatz M. B. , Pieralli S. , Gierthmuehlen P. C.
Published: December 2024

Objective

To investigate the nature and availability of evidence on the clinical performance of posterior partial coverage restorations (PCR) fabricated from different ceramic materials, outcome definitions, measurement methods, study drop‐outs and follow ups.

Overview

A systematic literature search (inception‐February 2024) was performed through MEDLINE, Scopus, CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform to identify clinical studies with a focus on posterior PCRs (onlays, occlusal veneers and partial crowns) with a minimum follow‐up of 1 year. Thirteen of 31 included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCT) and 18 non‐randomized studies of intervention (NRS). Six RCTs compared two different ceramic materials and might be suitable for meta‐analysis. Differences in study design, definition of survival, evaluation methods, and statistical models for survival analysis were identified as reasons for expected heterogeneity among studies. The most common reasons for restoration failures were ceramic fractures and retention loss.

Conclusion

The evidence informing the effect of PCRs varied in definitions of survival and failure, complication classifications, and workflow approaches. RCTs addressing clinical performance of PCRs comparing different ceramic materials are available for conducting systematic reviews and meta‐analyses.
Non‐Destructive Prediction Approach for Pomelo Granulation Rate Using MRI Technology
Authors: Jie Dengfei , Li Zhihong , Wu Shuang , Tian Botao , Wang Ping , He Jincheng , Wei Xuan
Published: December 2024

Pomelo is prone to juice sac granulation during ripening and storage, resulting in decreased moisture content, hard flesh, and bland flavor, which affects market value and consumer experience. Due to the complexity of the causes of juice sac granulation, coupled with the thick peel of pomelo, the detection means of pomelo is lacking and difficult to detect. In order to solve the shortcomings of the traditional granulation rate calculation, which has an error and cannot realize non‐destructive detection. This study proposes a non‐destructive detection of pomelo juice sac granulation and the calculation of granulation rate based on the nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology combined with the computer vision technology. Based on the strong analytical power of the MRI technology for moisture and the change of moisture in the granulated juice sac of pomelo, in this study, the cross section of pomelo was scanned by MRI scanner to obtain the corresponding MRI images. The MRI images of the cross section of pomelo were segmented using the threshold segmentation method to realize the calculation of the percentage of granulated pulp. The experimental results show that the segmentation threshold T1 = 102 can effectively segment the pulp from the peel, and the segmentation threshold T2 = 175 can effectively segment the granulated pulp from the normal pulp. The granulation rate of pomelo pulp can be calculated by calculating the ratio of the granulated pulp area to the total pulp area. Therefore, based on the MRI technology can be used for the detection of the granulation rate of pomelo juice sac, which provides a certain reference value for the subsequent non‐destructive detection of the internal quality of large melons and fruits.
Development of a perceived nutrition care competencies scale for Japanese dietetic students: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Yamamoto Sayaka , Yoshimoto Yuko S. , Yoshii Kengo , Shimizu Ryo , Ohnishi Ritsuko , Takahashi Hiroko , Kawakami Takayo
Published: December 2024

Background

There are currently few appropriate instruments for assessing nutrition care competencies in clinical practice. This study aimed to develop a perceived nutrition care competencies (PNCC) scale for dietetic students and test its validity. Factors that influence PNCC scores were examined through a cross‐sectional study.

Methodology

This cross‐sectional survey involved 501 dietetic students (mean age of 21.4 years, 428 females) and employed a web‐based questionnaire between September 2022 and February 2023. A scale derived from previous research was used to assess nutrition management practices and basic dietetic competencies. Questionnaire data were analysed using exploratory factor analysis.

Results

Exploratory factor analysis identified five factors: nutritional status assessment and preparation for intervention, communication skills for nutritional support, nutritional diagnosis and recording, supplementation suggestions and coordination and dietitian orientation and attitude. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that field practice increased the ‘nutrition diagnosis and recording’ scores, and the subconcepts ‘nutrition diagnosis and recording’ and ‘suggestion and coordination of nutritional supplementation’ showed odds ratios (ORs) <1 for the ‘online role‐play among students’ experience. In addition, experience with face‐to‐face simulated patients increased the total scores (OR 2.46, 95% confidence interval 1.43–4.22, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

The PNCC scale demonstrated reliability and validity, offering a valuable measure of dietetics students' perceptions of their nutrition care practice competence. The findings highlight the need to increase the willingness of the students to work as dietitians and to incorporate realistic, safe learning experiences beyond on‐site practice to enhance nutrition management practice competency.
Hand Grip Strength Index, a Novel Tool in Risk‐Assessing Multi‐Ethnic End‐Stage Kidney Disease Patients Treated by Haemodialysis
Authors: Nguyen Mai , Davenport Andrew
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Increasing numbers of elderly co‐morbid patients with end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) are now offered haemodialysis. Simple, rapid screening tools are required to risk‐assess patients, highlighting those requiring nutritional or other support and advising on prognosis. As such, we assessed a newly introduced tool, the hand grip strength index (HGS index), a comparison of measured to predicted HGS.

Methods

We reviewed ESKD dialysis patients dialysing under the care of an inner‐city tertiary dialysis centre who had contemporaneous HGS measurements, and body composition measured by multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis, followed for ≤ 9 years, censoring for transplantation.

Results

Results from 1023 patients, 63.2% male, 48.2% White and 46.5% diabetic, with a dialysis vintage of 21.2 (7.2–61.0) months, were analysed. Mortality was significantly greater for those in the lowest HGS index quartile using Kaplan–Meier analysis (p < 0.001). On multivariable step‐backward Cox regression analysis, mortality was independently significantly associated (p < 0.001) with increasing age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.04 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.029–1.045]), higher co‐morbidity score (HR 1.24 [1.142–1.347]) and post‐dialysis extracellular water/total body water ratio (HR 1.15 [1.089–1.219]) and lower HGS index (HR −0.76 [0.991–0.998]), whereas sarcopenia and frailty were not retained in the model.

Conclusion

Increasing numbers of elderly co‐morbid patients are being treated with dialysis, so simple screening tools are required to advise on prognosis and highlight patients who may need additional support, including nutrition. We found the HGS index to have prognostic value, along with the traditional risk factors of patient age and co‐morbidity.
Leveraging relatedness‐based measures in people with language disorders: A scoping review
Authors: Gaudet Logan A. , Rybka Lena , Mandonnet Emmanuel , Volle Emmanuelle , Barberis Marion , Jonkers Roel , Rofes Adrià
Published: December 2024

Understanding lexico‐semantic processing is crucial for dissecting the complexities of language and its disorders. Relatedness‐based measures, or those which investigate the degree of relatedness in meaning between either task items or items produced by participants, offer the opportunity to harness novel computational and analytical techniques from cognitive network science. Recognizing the need to deepen our understanding of lexico‐semantic deficits through diverse experimental and analytical approaches, this review explores the use of such measures in research into language disorders. A comprehensive search of four electronic databases covering publications from the last 11 years (October 2013–September 2024) identified 38 original experimental studies employing relatedness‐based measures in populations with language disorders or other neurological conditions. Articles were examined for the types of tasks used, populations studied, item selection methods and analytical approaches. The predominant use of category fluency tasks emerged across studies, with a notable absence of relatedness judgement tasks or comparable paradigms. Commonly discussed populations included individuals with post‐stroke aphasia, mild cognitive impairment and schizophrenia. Analytical methods varied significantly, ranging from more traditional approaches of clustering and switching to more sophisticated computational techniques. Despite the evident utility of category fluency tasks in research and clinical settings, the review underscores a critical need to diversify experimental paradigms and probe lexico‐semantic processing in a more multifaceted manner. A broadened approach in future language disorder research should incorporate innovative analytical techniques, investigations of neural correlates and a wider array of tasks employing relatedness‐based measures already present in healthy populations.
Identification of Predictors of Shift Work Adaptation and Its Association With Immune, Hormonal and Metabolite Biomarkers
Authors: Harding Barbara N. , Espinosa Ana , Castaño‐Vinyals Gemma , Pozo Oscar J. , Skene Debra J. , Bustamante Mariona , Mata Maria , Aguilar Ruth , Dobaño Carlota , Wucher Valentin , Navarrete José Maria , Faro Patricia Such , Torrejón Antonio , Kogevinas Manolis , Papantoniou Kyriaki
Published: December 2024

We explored predictors of shift work adaptation and how it relates to disease risk biomarker levels. These analyses included 38 male, rotating shift workers, sampled twice at the end of a 3‐week night shift and a 3‐week day shift rotation. Participants collected all 24‐h urine voids, wore activity sensors, and responded to questionnaires during each shift. Using cosinor analysis, we derived the main period of urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s) production. Adaptation was defined as the overlap between the main aMT6s production period and sleep period assessed with actigraphy. We used linear models to identify predictors of adaptation to each shift and assessed associations between adaptation profiles and hormone, cytokine, and metabolite biomarker levels. The median duration of overlap (adaptation) was 3.85 h (IQR 2.59–5.03) in the night and 2.98 (IQR 2.17–4.11) in the day shift. In the night shift, a later chronotype (coeff: −1.16, 95% CI −1.87, −0.45) and increased light at night (coeff: −0.97, 95% CI −1.76, −0.18) were associated with poorer adaptation, while longer sleep duration was associated with better adaptation (coeff: 0.46, 95% CI 0.04, 0.88). In the day shift, later sleep onset was associated with worse adaptation (coeff: −0.06, 95% CI −0.12, −0.01), while longer sleep duration was associated with better adaptation (coeff: 0.54, 0.26, 0.81). Results suggest higher androgen and inflammatory marker levels and lower levels of several metabolite markers among less adapted individuals. Chronotype, sleep, and light at night were all associated with night or day shift adaptation. Given the small sample size, results should be viewed as exploratory, but may inform interventions to optimize adaptation of rotating shift workers.
The MetBase database has been merged into Astromat
Authors: Hezel Dominik C. , Lehnert Kerstin A. , Elangovan Premkumar , Ji Peng , Mays Jennifer , Koblitz Jörn
Published: December 2024

MetBase has been the world's largest database for meteorite compositions, but has now passed this torch on to the Astromaterials Data System (Astromat), into which MetBase has recently been merged. This merger had been planned for some time and took almost 1 year to complete. Not only differences in the structure of the databases, in the content and organization of data and metadata, and in the terminology used but also incorporation of new data needed to be resolved to combine the data holdings of MetBase with the Astromat synthesis database. Astromat is NASA's primary archive for laboratory analyses of astromaterial samples and funded by NASA to provide services for the preservation and open access of data from astromaterials, including meteorites, in alignment with the FAIR principles. After merging MetBase into Astromat's synthesis database, this now provides the cosmochemical community the largest compilation of cosmochemical analytical data by far: over 2 million analytical data points. Astromat is also part of a bigger ecosystem of geo‐ and cosmochemcial databases, as its foundation is aligned with other large geochemical databases such as EarthChem and GEOROC. The visualization tools and the teaching tool from MetBase will be further developed and now exist as independent tools. We provide a brief history of the two databases and their journeys, an outlook toward the future, as well as lessons learned from this merger. We recommend that other cosmochemical databases try whenever possible to adopt the Astromat database schema as early as possible, or get in contact for alternative options. We believe MetBase now being a part of Astromat is a match made in heaven and hope Astromat will become a reliable and trusted service within the community.
From leprosy to ground zero: Imagining futures in a world of elimination
Authors: Staples James
Published: December 2024

Achieving a target of zero—zero disease, zero disability, and zero discrimination—has become the dominant focus of campaigns to control or eliminate diseases, from HIV/AIDS to malaria to leprosy. Given the historical failure of most eradication programs over the last century, such teleological imaginings of disease‐free futures might seem overly utopian. But even if it were possible to eradicate such diseases in their entirety, would this be universally welcomed, even by those most affected by them? In this article, I compare the narratives of national and international bodies concerned with eliminating leprosy, in particular, with the more ambivalent narratives of those affected by the disease in India, the country where the disease is most prevalent. For the latter, the promise of elimination not only seems unrealistic, but represents a potential loss of identity. Imagining disease trajectories in less linear terms, I argue, might also nuance understanding of them.
Ocean‐Wide Conservation Genomics of Blue Whales Suggest New Northern Hemisphere Subspecies
Authors: Wolf Magnus , de Jong Menno J. , Janke Axel
Published: December 2024

The blue whale is an endangered and globally distributed species of baleen whale with multiple described subspecies, including the morphologically and genetically distinct pygmy blue whale. North Atlantic and North Pacific populations, however, are currently regarded as a single subspecies despite being separated by continental land masses and acoustic call differences. To determine the degree of isolation among the Northern Hemisphere populations, 14 North Pacific and 6 Western Australian blue whale nuclear and mitochondrial genomes were sequenced and analysed together with 11 publicly available North Atlantic blue whale genomes. Population genomic analyses revealed distinctly differentiated clusters and limited genetic exchange among all three populations, indicating a high degree of isolation between the Northern Hemisphere populations. Nevertheless, the genomic and mitogenomic distances between all blue whale populations, including the Western Australian pygmy blue whale, are low when compared to other inter‐subspecies distances in cetaceans. Given that the Western Australian pygmy blue whale is an already recognised subspecies and further supported by previously reported acoustic differences, a proposal is made to treat the two Northern Hemisphere populations as separate subspecies, namely Balaenoptera musculus musculus (North Atlantic blue whale) and Balaenoptera musculus sulfureus (North Pacific blue whale). Furthermore, a first molecular viability assessment of all three populations not only found a generally high genomic diversity among blue whales but also a lack of alleles at low frequency, non‐neutral evolution and increased effects of inbreeding. This suggests a substantial anthropogenic impact on the genotypes of blue whales and calls for careful monitoring in future conservation plans.
Environmental Stress and Resource Availability Affect the Maintenance of Genetic Variation in a Dominant Marsh Plant (Spartina alterniflora)
Authors: Zerebecki Robyn A. , Hughes A. Randall
Published: December 2024

Changes in genetic variation, and particularly documented declines in genetic diversity, influence not only evolutionary potential but also current ecological function. Given this context, it is essential to understand what abiotic and biotic factors promote or disrupt the maintenance of genetic variation in natural populations. To address this knowledge gap in the context of salt marsh plants, we established a three‐year field experiment, testing the independent and interactive effects of nutrient availability and physical stress on the maintenance of plant (Spartina alterniflora) genotypic diversity. We found that in environments with high physical stress (i.e., low marsh elevations), diversity declined over time. However, the addition of nutrients promoted the maintenance of Spartina genotypic diversity across the physical stress gradient. We also observed changes in genotypic composition and genetic divergence across environmental stress treatments, indicating variation among Spartina genotypes in their response to these factors. Our results suggest that tidal inundation acts a selective gradient within coastal marshes, altering genotypic diversity and composition across the landscape. Moreover, our work highlights that the effects of increasing inundation due to continued sea‐level rise on the maintenance of diversity may be modulated by concomitant changes in nutrient inputs, with cascading effects on marsh structure and function.
Recent Range Expansion and Genomic Admixture in a Kleptoparasitic Spider, Argyrodes lanyuensis: A Case of Adaptive Introgression on Small, Isolated Islands of the Taiwan–Philippine Transition Zone?
Authors: Responte Mae A. , Wu Cheng‐Yu , Elias Noraya U. , Brown Rafe M. , Dai Chia‐Yen , Su Yong‐Chao
Published: December 2024

Adaptive introgression involves the acquisition of advantageous genetic variants through hybridisation, which are subsequently favoured by natural selection due to their association with beneficial traits. Here, we analysed speciation patterns of the kleptoparasitic spider, Argyrodes lanyuensis, through genomic analyses and tested for possible genetic evidence of adaptive introgression at the Taiwan–Philippines transition zone. Our study used highly polymorphic SNPs to demonstrate that speciation occurred when the Hualien (on Taiwan Island + Green Island) and Orchid Island + Philippine lineages separated during the early to mid‐Pleistocene. The best colonisation model suggested by approximate Bayesian computation and random forests and biogeographical analyses supported an inference of a bottleneck during speciation, an interpretation reinforced by observation of lower FST values and reduced genetic diversity of the Orchid Island + Philippines lineage. We also found the highest support for the occurrence of introgression on the youngest island (Green Island) of the Taiwan–Philippines transition zone based on the ABBA‐BABA test. Our study highlights the inference of two noteworthy species (Hualien + Green Island and Orchid Island + Philippines) based on our species delimitation tests, with gene flow between Green Island and Orchid Island that indicates introgression. The potential adaptive alleles in Green Island population, which are under balancing selection, provide initial evidence of possible rare case of adaptive introgression. This could represent an evolutionary response to a newly formed niche (or novel geographical context) lying between the tropical climate of the Philippines and the subtropical climate of Hualien, Taiwan.
Increasing Rubisco as a simple means to enhance photosynthesis and productivity now without lowering nitrogen use efficiency
Authors: Salesse‐Smith Coralie E. , Wang Yu , Long Stephen P.
Published: December 2024

Global demand for food may rise by 60% mid‐century. A central challenge is to meet this need using less land in a changing climate. Nearly all crop carbon is assimilated through Rubisco, which is catalytically slow, reactive with oxygen, and a major component of leaf nitrogen. Developing more efficient forms of Rubisco, or engineering CO2 concentrating mechanisms into C3 crops to competitively repress oxygenation, are major endeavors, which could hugely increase photosynthetic productivity (≥ 60%). New technologies are bringing this closer, but improvements remain in the discovery phase and have not been reduced to practice. A simpler shorter‐term strategy that could fill this time gap, but with smaller productivity increases (c. 10%) is to increase leaf Rubisco content. This has been demonstrated in initial field trials, improving the productivity of C3 and C4 crops. Combining three‐dimensional leaf canopies with metabolic models infers that a 20% increase in Rubisco increases canopy photosynthesis by 14% in sugarcane (C4) and 9% in soybean (C3). This is consistent with observed productivity increases in rice, maize, sorghum and sugarcane. Upregulation of Rubisco is calculated not to require more nitrogen per unit yield and although achieved transgenically to date, might be achieved using gene editing to produce transgene‐free gain of function mutations or using breeding.
Evolution of sympatric host‐specialized lineages of the fungal plant pathogen Zymoseptoria passerinii in natural ecosystems
Authors: Rojas‐Barrera Idalia C. , Flores‐Núñez Victor M. , Haueisen Janine , Alizadeh Alireza , Salimi Fatemeh , Stukenbrock Eva H.
Published: December 2024

The barley disease Septoria Speckled Leaf Blotch, caused by the fungus Zymoseptoria passerinii, last appeared in North America in the early 2000s. Although rare in crops, field sampling of wild grasses in the Middle East revealed the disease persistence in wild barley.

Identification of Z. passerinii in various wild barley species prompted us to examine genomic signatures of host specialization and trace the emergence of the domesticated‐barley‐infecting lineage. Furthermore, we applied virulence assays and confocal laser microscopy to evaluate whether the disease development differs between wild and domesticated barley.

Wild‐ and domesticated‐host‐infecting populations have diverged, and phylogenetic relationships support the evolution of sympatric host‐specialized lineages in wild hosts. Cross‐virulence assays showed that Z. passerinii from domesticated hosts infect domesticated barley and its wild ancestor, Hordeum spontaneum. However, wild isolates from Iran did not infect domesticated barley. Wild and domesticated pathosystems have similar disease timing and progression, suggesting its persistence does not depend on a shorter period of incubation.

The study supports that a wide range of hosts can foster the evolution of host‐specialized lineages in sympatry and provide novel insights into the evolution of understudied fungal pathogens on wild hosts.
First ABO‐Incompatible Pediatric Kidney Transplant in South Africa—A Case Report
Authors: Coetzee Ashton , Nourse Peter , Abdo Theresa , Pienaar Taryn , Siyothula Thozama , Du Toit Tinus , Thomson Dave , Barday Zunaid A. , Ndamase Bongiswa , McCulloch Mignon I.
Published: December 2024

Background

Blood group incompatibility previously represented an obstacle to living related donor (LRD) options; desensitization modalities have expanded LRD options. ABO‐incompatible kidney transplants have been successful in adults and pediatric liver transplants, but to date not yet in pediatric kidney transplants in South Africa.

Case Report

Patient X is a 5 year old male with end‐stage kidney failure due to Posterior Urethral Valves, requiring peritoneal dialysis pre‐transplant. His sister was the only suitable LRD. The recipient was blood group A+; donor was blood group B+; HLA match was 5/10, nil HLA donor specific antibodies and negative CDC and Flow crossmatches. The recipients' anti‐B titer pre‐transplant was a maximum of 1:8. A pre‐emptive desensitization dose of Rituximab (375 mg/m2) was administered 4 weeks before transplant. The anti‐B titer decreased to 1:2 following the Rituximab (CD19% of 0%). Post‐transplant, the Anti‐B titers were monitored for the first 10 days, with a maximum titer of 1:8 (immunoadsorbtion therapy available if > 1:16, or if associated graft dysfunction). Immunosuppressant protocol consisted of Basiliximab, Tacrolimus, Azathioprine, and Prednisone. Post‐transplant, the creatinine improved to 60–70 μmol/L at Week 1. 7 weeks post‐transplant, serum creatinine increased > 10% with an antibody titer of 1:2. Kidney biopsy showed CNI‐related toxicity; renal function improved with reduction in Tacrolimus doses. Kidney function remains stable 1‐year post‐transplant with nil episodes of rejection.

Conclusion

This is the first ABO‐incompatible kidney transplant in a pediatric patient in South Africa and represents an important step in expanding the pool of potential living related donors.
The potential lipid biomarker 5‐HETE for acute exacerbation identified by metabolomics in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Zhao Yichao , Shi Yanchen , Zhang Ji , Zhang Huizhe , Wang Zimu , Wu Shufei , Zhang Mingrui , Liu Mengying , Ye Xu , Gu Huimin , Jiang Cheng , Ye Xiaoling , Zhu Huihui , Li Qi , Huang Xinmei , Cao Mengshu
Published: December 2024

Background and Objective

Acute exacerbation (AE) is often the fatal complication of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Emerging evidence indicates that metabolic reprogramming and dysregulation of lipid metabolism are distinctive characteristics of IPF. However, the lipid metabolic mechanisms that underlie the pathophysiology of AE‐IPF remain elusive.

Methods

Serum samples for pilot study were collected from 34 Controls, 37 stable IPF (S‐IPF) cases and 41 AE‐IPF patients. UHPLC–MS/MS was utilized to investigate metabolic variations and identify lipid biomarkers in serum. ELISA, quantitative PCR and western blot were employed to validate the identified biomarkers.

Results

There were 32 lipid metabolites and 5 lipid metabolism pathways enriched in all IPF patients compared to Controls. In AE‐IPF versus S‐IPF, 19 lipid metabolites and 12 pathways were identified, with 5‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic Acid (5‐HETE) significantly elevated in AE‐IPF. Both in internal and external validation cohorts, the serum levels of 5‐HETE were significantly elevated in AE‐IPF patients compared to S‐IPF subjects. Consequently, the indicators related to 5‐HETE in lipid metabolic pathway were significantly changed in AE‐IPF patients compared with S‐IPF cases in the lung tissues. The serum level of 5‐HETE was significantly correlated with the disease severity (CT score and PaO2/FiO2 ratio) and survival time. Importantly, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, Kaplan–Meier analysis and Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that 5‐HETE represents a promising lipid biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of AE‐IPF.

Conclusion

Our study highlights lipid reprogramming as a novel therapeutic approach for IPF, and 5‐HETE may be a potential biomarker of AE‐IPF patients.
Response to ‘Reassessing pyrazinamide: Disentangling the myth of dose‐dependent hepatotoxicity and advancing dosing strategies in elderly tuberculosis patients’
Authors: Taniguchi Jumpei , Aso Shotaro , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: December 2024

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Brain MRI findings and thoracic CT findings in a dog with hemiparesis and acutely diminished Von‐Willebrand factor levels through Angiostrongylus vasorum infection
Authors: Krüger Benjamin Thilo , Hamm Vinga Carolina , Wennemuth Jan
Published: December 2024

A 2‐year‐old intact male Airedale Terrier was presented with a sudden onset of neurological signs, manifesting as hemiparesis, which were neuroanatomically localized to the brain. Initial bloodwork conducted by the local veterinarian indicated decreased levels of von Willebrand factor, and further examination showed an extended buccal mucosal bleeding time. MRI revealed a substantial hemorrhage within the right parietal lobe, while CT exhibited a mixed pulmonary pattern with unstructured interstitial, peribronchial, and alveolar components, presumably associated with larval migration and pulmonary microhemorrhages. A Baermann fecal test yielded positive results, confirming an Angiostrongylus vasorum infection. Following treatment, the patient exhibited a complete remission of all symptoms and findings.
Diffusion data augmentation for enhancing Norberg hip angle estimation
Authors: Yueh Sheng‐Han , Higgins Fiona , Lin Zoe , Todhunter Rory James , Zhang Youshan
Published: December 2024

The Norberg angle (NA) plays a crucial role in evaluating hip joint conformation, particularly in canines, by quantifying femoral head subluxation within the hip joint. Therefore, it is an important metric for evaluating hip joint quality and diagnosing canine hip dysplasia, the most prevalent hereditary orthopedic disorder in dogs. While contemporary tools offer automated quantification of the NA, their usage typically entails manual labeling and verification of radiographic images by professional veterinarians. To enhance efficiency and streamline this process, the study aims to develop a tool capable of predicting the NA directly from the image without the need for veterinary intervention. Due to the challenges in acquiring annotated, diverse, high‐quality images, this study introduces diffusion models to expand the training dataset from 219 to 1493 images, encompassing original images. This augmentation enhances the dataset's diversity and scale, thereby improving the accuracy of Norberg angle estimation. The model predicts four key points: the center of left and right femoral heads and the edge of the left and right acetabulum, as well as the radii of the femoral heads and the Norberg angles. By evaluating 18 distinct pretrained ImageNet models, we investigate their performance pre‐ and post‐incorporating augmented data from generated images. The results demonstrate a significant enhancement, with an average 35.3% improvement based on mean absolute percentage error when utilizing generated images from diffusion models. This study showcases the potential of diffusion modeling in advancing canine hip dysplasia diagnosis and underscores the value of incorporating augmented data to elevate model accuracy.