bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulating past and future fire impacts on Mediterranean ecosystems
Authors: Schwörer Christoph , Morales‐Molino César , Gobet Erika , Henne Paul D. , Pasta Salvatore , Pedrotta Tiziana , van Leeuwen Jacqueline F. N. , Vannière Boris , Tinner Willy
Published: April 2024

Worldwide, large wildfires are becoming increasingly common, leading to economic damages and threatening ecosystems and human health. Under future climate change, more frequent fire disturbance may push ecosystems into non‐forested alternative stable states. Fire‐prone ecosystems such as those in the Mediterranean Basin are expected to be particularly vulnerable, but the position of tipping points is unclear.

We compare long‐term palaeoecological data from Sardinia with output from a process‐based dynamic vegetation model to investigate the mechanisms controlling the complex interactions between fire, climate, and vegetation in the past and the future.

Our results show that past vegetation changes from Erica‐shrublands to mixed evergreen‐broadleaved Quercus ilex‐dominated forests were driven by a climate‐induced fire regime shift. By simulating vegetation dynamics under varying fire regimes, we could reproduce Holocene vegetation trajectories and mechanistically identify tipping points.

Without an immediate reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, we simulate future expansion of fire‐prone Mediterranean maquis and increasing fire occurrence. Similarly, high anthropogenic ignition frequencies and plantations of non‐native, highly flammable trees could induce a shift to fire‐adapted Erica shrublands. However, our simulations indicate that if global warming can be kept below 2°C, Quercus ilex forests will be able to persist and effectively reduce fire occurrences and impacts, making them a valuable restoration target in Mediterranean ecosystems.

Synthesis. By combining long‐term records of ecosystem change with a dynamic vegetation model, we show that past climate‐driven fire regime shifts were the main driver of vegetation change, creating alternative stable states that persisted over centuries. Projected future climate change exceeding Holocene variability leads to pronounced vegetation changes and increased fire risks in our simulations, requiring new fire management strategies to maintain current ecosystem services.
Data mining, research ethics and practice: A view from Italy
Authors: Vereni Pietro
Published: April 2024

This article explores the intersection of ethics and methodology in anthropological research, focusing on squats in Rome. It juxtaposes traditional ethnographic practices with contemporary ethical regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), to examine the nuanced relationship between researchers and their subjects in socially vulnerable and legally sensitive environments. The article critiques the reductionist view of ethnographic data as mere information to be extracted, arguing for a more engaged and reciprocal approach to anthropology that respects the agency of research subjects and emphasizes the co‐production of knowledge. The document challenges conventional ethical frameworks and advocates for anthropology's commitment to listening and giving voice to marginalized communities through examining interactions with squatters and the Roma population. This enquiry scrutinizes the bureaucratic imposition on ethnographic research and reaffirms the discipline's role in contributing to a broader understanding of ethics in anthropological practice.
Topical imiquimod treatment of residual or recurrent cervical intraepithelial neoplasia lesions (TOPIC‐2): A randomised controlled trial
Authors: van de Sande Anna J. M. , van Baars Romy , Koeneman Margot M. , Gerestein Cornelis G. , Kruse Arnold‐Jan , van Esch Edith M. G. , de Vos van Steenwijk Peggy J. , Muntinga Caroline L. P. , Willemsen Sten P. , van Doorn Helena C. , van Kemenade Folkert J. , van Beekhuizen Helene J.
Published: April 2024

Objective

To investigate the efficacy of imiquimod in women with residual or recurrent cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (rrCIN), compared with large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ).

Design

Randomised controlled non‐inferiority trial.

Setting

One academic and one regional hospital in the Netherlands.

Population

Thirty‐five women with rrCIN were included in the study between May 2016 and May 2021.

Methods

Women were randomised to receive treatment with 5% imiquimod cream (12.5 mg) intravaginally (three times a week for a duration of 16 weeks) or a LLETZ procedure (standard treatment).

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was reduction to normal cytology at 6 months after starting treatment. Secondary outcomes were clearance of high‐risk human papilloma virus (hr‐HPV) in both groups and reduction to ≤CIN1 in the imiquimod group. Side effects were monitored.

Results

Treatment success was 33% (6/18) in the imiquimod group versus 100% (16/16) in the LLETZ group (P < 0.001), whereas HPV clearance was 22% (4/18) in the imiquimod group versus 88% (14/16) in the LLETZ group (P < 0.001). After the randomisation of 35 women, the futility of treatment with imiquimod was proven and the trial was prematurely finished. In the follow‐up period, three patients remained without additional treatment, whereas all other patients underwent LLETZ, conisation or hysterectomy. In the LLETZ group none of the patients received additional treatment during 2 years of follow‐up.

Conclusions

This is the first randomised controlled trial to show that topical imiquimod has a significantly lower success rate in terms of reduction to normal cytology and hr‐HPV clearance, compared with LLETZ, in women with rrCIN. Additionally, imiquimod has numerous side effects and after using imiquimod most women with rrCIN still required additional surgical treatment.
Incidence, predictors and immediate neonatal outcomes of birth asphyxia in Nigeria
Authors: Ikechebelu Joseph Ifeanyichukwu , Eleje George Uchenna , Onubogu Chinyere Ukamaka , Ojiegbe Nnabuike Okechukwu , Ekwochi Uchenna , Ezebialu Ifeanyichukwu Uzoma , Ezenkwele Eziamaka Pauline , Nzeribe Emily Akuabia , Umeh Uchenna Anthony , Obumneme‐Anyim Ijeoma , Nwokeji‐Onwe Linda Nneka , Settecase Eugenia , Ugwu Innocent Anayochukwu , Chianakwana Ogochukwu , Ibekwe Nkechi Theresa , Ezeaku Onyebuchi Ignatius , Ekweagu Gloria Nwuka , Onwe Abraham Bong , Lavin Tina , Tukur Jamilu
Published: April 2024

Objective

To determine the incidence and sociodemographic and clinical risk factors associated with birth asphyxia and the immediate neonatal outcomes of birth asphyxia in Nigeria.

Design

Secondary analysis of data from the Maternal and Perinatal Database for Quality, Equity and Dignity Programme.

Setting

Fifty‐four consenting referral‐level hospitals (48 public and six private) across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.

Population

Women (and their babies) who were admitted for delivery in the facilities between 1 September 2019 and 31 August 2020.

Methods

Data were extracted and analysed on prevalence and sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with birth asphyxia and the immediate perinatal outcomes. Multilevel logistic regression modelling was used to ascertain the factors associated with birth asphyxia.

Main outcome measures

Incidence, case fatality rate and factors associated with birth asphyxia.

Results

Of the available data, 65 383 (91.1%) women and 67 602 (90.9%) babies had complete data and were included in the analysis. The incidence of birth asphyxia was 3.0% (2027/67 602) and the case fatality rate was 16.8% (339/2022). The risk factors for birth asphyxia were uterine rupture, pre‐eclampsia/eclampsia, abruptio placentae/placenta praevia, birth trauma, fetal distress and congenital anomaly. The following factors were independently associated with a risk of birth asphyxia: maternal age, woman's education level, husband's occupation, parity, antenatal care, referral status, cadre of health professional present at the birth, sex of the newborn, birthweight and mode of birth. Common adverse neonatal outcomes included: admission to a special care baby unit (SCBU), 88.4%; early neonatal death, 14.2%; neonatal sepsis, 4.5%; and respiratory distress, 4.4%.

Conclusions

The incidence of reported birth asphyxia in the participating facilities was low, with around one in six or seven babies with birth asphyxia dying. Factors associated with birth asphyxia included sociodemographic and clinical considerations, underscoring a need for a comprehensive approach focused on the empowerment of women and ensuring access to quality antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal care.
Differentiation, dominance and fairness in the European Union: Bringing in the citizens’ perspective
Authors: HEERMANN MAX , LEUFFEN DIRK , SCHUESSLER JULIAN
Published: April 2024

This article analyses whether and how fairness considerations affect citizens’ support of European Union (EU) policies and integration. While past literature has revealed that perceptions of procedural and substantive fairness impact on public opinion at the level of the nation state, we know less about the fairness‐support nexus when it comes to international cooperation. We here make use of the case of differentiated integration (DI) to experimentally dissect normative and utility‐oriented considerations in the evaluation of EU policies. DI as an instrument to overcome heterogeneity‐induced gridlock has been linked to both autonomy and dominance, and it can generate winners and losers in the EU. Our experiments reveal that citizens largely support DI. However, they are opposed to forms of DI which impose negative externalities on a subgroup of EU member states. This holds irrespective of the affectedness of citizens’ own member states. We take these findings as a first experimental confirmation that citizens, indeed, care about the fairness of the EU and its policies.
A comprehensive review of the mechanisms on fish stress affecting muscle qualities: Nutrition, physical properties, and flavor
Authors: Peng Ling , Zhang Liangzi , Xiong Shanbai , You Juan , Liu Ru , Xu Defeng , Huang Qilin , Ma Huawei , Yin Tao
Published: April 2024

Fish inevitably face numerous stressors in growth, processing, and circulation. In recent years, stress‐related change in fish muscle quality has gradually become a research hotspot. Thus, the understanding of the mechanism regarding the change is constantly deepening. This review introduces the physiological regulation of fish under stress, with particular attention devoted to signal transduction, gene expression, and metabolism, and changes in the physiological characteristics of muscular cells. Then, the influences of various stressors on the nutrition, physical properties, and flavor of the fish muscle are sequentially described. This review emphasizes recent advances in the mechanisms underlying changes in muscle quality, which are believed to be involved mainly in physiological regulation under stress. In addition, studies are also introduced on improving muscle quality by mitigating fish stress.
Evaluation of a pathway to address take own leave events for First Nations peoples presenting for emergency care: The Deadly RED project
Authors: Davison Michelle , Chan Jason , Clarke Meg , Mitchell Caroline , Yan Alan , Ballard Emma , Henaway Elwyn
Published: April 2024

Objective

The ‘Deadly RED’ project primarily aimed to improve culturally competent care to reduce the number of First Nations patients presenting to a Queensland ED who ‘Take own leave’ (TOL). The secondary aim was to evaluate the implementation project.

Methods

A pre/post‐test quasi experimental study design using mixed methods was co‐designed with adherence to Indigenous research considerations. Quantitative analysis of First Nations presentations before and after Deadly RED implementation was performed using SPSS. Qualitative analysis of transcribed research yarns in NVIVO was coded and themed for analysis. Staff experiences and perspectives were collated using electronically distributed surveys and process audits were performed.

Results

A total of 1096 First Nations presentations June to August 2021 and 1167 in the matched 2022 post‐implementation period were analysed. Significantly more patients were recorded as TOL post‐implementation (13.0% pre vs 21.3% post) and representations rates were unchanged. Forty‐six staff surveyed identified improvements in all parameters including cultural appropriateness and quality of care. Qualitative analysis of 85 research yarns revealed themes migrated to increasingly acceptable, accessible, and usable care. Notably, 45% of the First Nation's patients recorded as TOL self‐reported that their treatment was complete. The study was feasible as 80% of packs distributed and 73% follow‐up screening after TOL.

Conclusions

The Deadly RED evaluation revealed significant discrepancies in the reported data points of TOL and the ‘story’ of the First Nations persons experience of appropriate and completed care. Staff awareness and cultural capability improved significantly, and yarning allowed knowledge translation and improvements in communication which contributed to a better healthcare experience for First Nations patients attending our ED.
Combining transfer learning and hyperspectral imaging to identify bruises of pears across different bruise types
Authors: Liu Dayang , Zhang Huiting , Lv Feng , Tao Yanrong , Zhu Liangkuan
Published: April 2024

Mechanical bruise is one of the most crucial factors affecting the quality of pears, which has a huge influence on postharvest transportation, storage, and sale of pears. To rapidly detect early bruises of pears across different bruise types, hyperspectral imaging technology coupled with transfer learning methods was performed in this study.

Two transfer learning methods, that is, transfer component analysis (TCA) and manifold embedded distribution alignment (MEDA), were applied for two tasks (impact bruise → crush bruise, crush bruise → impact bruise). Supporting vector machine (SVM) was set as a baseline to conduct analysis and comparison of the transferability of the models. The result showed that, for task 1 (impact bruise → crush bruise), MEDA and TCA‐SVM model achieved a classification accuracy of 93.33% and 91.11% in target domain, individually. For task 2 (crush bruise →impact bruise), MEDA and TCA‐SVM model achieved an accuracy of 88.89% and 85.19% in target domain, respectively. Both the two models improved the accuracy compared with SVM models (84.44% for task 1; 77.04% for task 2).

Overall, the results indicated that transfer learning approaches could perform pear bruise detection across different bruise types. Hyperspectral imaging in combination with transfer learning methods is a promising possibility for the efficient and cost‐saving field detection of fruit bruises among different bruise types.

Practical Application

The production and export of pears are faced with problems of mechanical damage due to vibration, collision, impact, and other factors, which cause chemical changes in color, odor, and taste. Sometimes the bruise was too slight to be ignored which would infect with other fruits in the future. In this study, we used hyperspectral imaging combined with transfer learning method could detect these slight bruises caused by different factors. Distinguishing different types of damage can provide a reference for quick judgment of the process causing damage and take prompt measures to reduce economic losses.
Personalized, tumor‐informed, circulating tumor DNA assay for detecting minimal residual disease in non‐small cell lung cancer patients receiving curative treatments
Authors: Oh Youjin , Yoon Sung Mi , Lee Jeeyeon , Park Joo Hee , Lee Soowon , Hong Timothy , Chung Liam Il‐young , Sudhaman Sumedha , Riddell Timothy , Palsuledesai Charuta C. , Krainock Michael , Liu Minetta C. , Chae Young Kwang
Published: April 2024

Background

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has emerged as a prognostic and predictive biomarker for detection of minimal residual disease (MRD), monitoring treatment response, and early detection of recurrence in cancer patients. In this study, we explored the utility of ctDNA‐based MRD detection to predict recurrence in a real‐world cohort of primarily early‐stage non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated with curative intent.

Methods

Longitudinal plasma samples were collected post curative‐intent treatment from 36 patients with stage I–IV NSCLC. A personalized, tumor‐informed assay was used to detect and quantify ctDNA in plasma samples.

Results

Of the 24 patients with plasma samples available during the MRD window (within 6 months of curative surgery and before adjuvant therapy), ctDNA was detectable in two patients. Patients with ctDNA‐positivity during the MRD window were 15 times more likely to recur compared to ctDNA‐negative patients (HR: 15.0, 95% CI: 1.0–253.0, p = 0.010). At any time post‐curative intent treatment, ctDNA‐positivity was associated with significantly poorer recurrence‐free survival compared to persistently ctDNA‐negative patients (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Our real‐world data indicate that longitudinal, personalized, tumor‐informed ctDNA monitoring is a valuable tool in patients with NSCLC receiving curative treatment to identify patients at high risk for recurrence.
Help‐seeking preference in obtaining social support for older adults in depopulated areas
Authors: Tone Hanami , Hirano Michiyo
Published: April 2024

Objective

To clarify the circumstances of help‐seeking preference among older adults in depopulated areas and the relationship between help‐seeking preference and social support.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study that included a sample of 271 men and women aged 65–79 years living in Japan. A questionnaire survey was conducted to assess help‐seeking preference, social cohesion (community trust, norms of reciprocity and community attachment), socialising (interaction with neighbors and social network) and social support. Multiple regression analysis was performed with items that were found to be significantly associated with social support in the univariate analysis. Then, we examined the significance of the change in the coefficient of determination between a model that included help‐seeking preference as an independent variable and a model that did not.

Results

Social support was related to help‐seeking preference, living arrangements, economic status, norms of reciprocity and social networks. There was a significant difference in the coefficient of determination between the models with and without help‐seeking preference.

Conclusions

For older adults in depopulated areas to obtain social support, it is important to build trusting relationships with others and shows a willingness to seek and accept help.
Implementation and evaluation of the Supportive and Palliative Care Indicators Tool (SPICT™) in acute care
Authors: Paulik Olivia , Whitaker Robyn , Mesuria Monita , Wong Debbie , Swanson Katie , Green Heidi , Sikhosana Nqobile , Fernandez Ritin
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The Supportive and Palliative Care Indicators Tool (SPICT™) has been used to identify patients at risk of deteriorating and dying within 1 year. Early identification and integration of advance care planning (ACP) provides the opportunity for a better quality of life for patients. The aims of this study were to identify the number of patients who were SPICT™ positive; their mortality rates at 6 and 12 months of the SPICT™ assessment; and level of adherence to ACP documentation.

Methods

A retrospective audit of the Supportive and Palliative Care database was conducted at an acute aged care precinct in a major metropolitan tertiary referral hospital in New South Wales, Australia. Data comprising demographics, clinical conditions, SPICT™ positivity and compliance with ACP documentation were collected. SPICT™‐positive patients and mortality were tracked at 6 and 12 months, respectively.

Results

Data from 153 patients were collected. The mean age of the patients was 84.1 (±7.8) years, and the length of hospital stay was 10 (±24.7) (range 1–269) days. Approximately 37% were from residential care, and 80% had family deciding on their care. About 15% died during hospitalisation, and 48% were discharged to a care facility. The ACP documentation showed various levels of completion. Mortality rates at 6 and 12 months were 36% and 39%, respectively. Most patients (99%) were SPICT™‐positive, with indicators correlating with higher mortality rates at both follow‐ups.

Conclusions

The study emphasises the critical need for addressing ACP and palliative care among older patients with life‐limiting conditions. It underscores the importance of timely discussions, documentation, and cessation of futile interventions.
Human hypoxia models in aerospace medicine: Potential applications for human pharmacological research
Authors: Post Titiaan E. , Denney Cayla , Cohen Adam , Jordan Jens , Limper Ulrich
Published: April 2024

Aerospace medicine required controlled terrestrial models to investigate influences of altered atmosphere conditions, such as hypoxia, on human health and performance. These models could potentially be expanded to encompass disease conditions or treatment targets regulated through hypoxia or hypercapnia. Hypoxia, a condition in which the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply, profoundly affects human physiology at multiple levels and contributes to the pathogenesis of various diseases. Experimental exposure to hypoxic conditions has gained recognition as a model for studying diseases such as pulmonary hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obstructive sleep apnoea, migraine and kidney disease. This approach may be particularly useful in mechanism‐oriented early‐stage clinical studies. This review discusses the ability of hypoxia models from space medicine research to mimic or induce these conditions in a controlled laboratory setting as a tool for testing the efficacy and safety of new pharmaceutical interventions.
An integrated molecular risk score early in life for subsequent childhood asthma risk
Authors: Böck Andreas , Urner Kathrin , Eckert Jana Kristin , Salvermoser Michael , Laubhahn Kristina , Kunze Sonja , Kumbrink Jörg , Hoeppner Marc P. , Kalkbrenner Kathrin , Kreimeier Simone , Beyer Kirsten , Hamelmann Eckard , Kabesch Michael , Depner Martin , Hansen Gesine , Riedler Josef , Roponen Marjut , Schmausser‐Hechfellner Elisabeth , Barnig Cindy , Divaret‐Chauveau Amandine , Karvonen Anne M. , Pekkanen Juha , Frei Remo , Roduit Caroline , Lauener Roger , Schaub Bianca ,   CHAMP study group; PASTURE study group
Published: April 2024

Background

Numerous children present with early wheeze symptoms, yet solely a subgroup develops childhood asthma. Early identification of children at risk is key for clinical monitoring, timely patient‐tailored treatment, and preventing chronic, severe sequelae. For early prediction of childhood asthma, we aimed to define an integrated risk score combining established risk factors with genome‐wide molecular markers at birth, complemented by subsequent clinical symptoms/diagnoses (wheezing, atopic dermatitis, food allergy).

Methods

Three longitudinal birth cohorts (PAULINA/PAULCHEN, n = 190 + 93 = 283, PASTURE, n = 1133) were used to predict childhood asthma (age 5–11) including epidemiological characteristics and molecular markers: genotype, DNA methylation and mRNA expression (RNASeq/NanoString). Apparent (ap) and optimism‐corrected (oc) performance (AUC/R2) was assessed leveraging evidence from independent studies (Naïve‐Bayes approach) combined with high‐dimensional logistic regression models (LASSO).

Results

Asthma prediction with epidemiological characteristics at birth (maternal asthma, sex, farm environment) yielded an ocAUC = 0.65. Inclusion of molecular markers as predictors resulted in an improvement in apparent prediction performance, however, for optimism‐corrected performance only a moderate increase was observed (upto ocAUC = 0.68). The greatest discriminate power was reached by adding the first symptoms/diagnosis (up to ocAUC = 0.76; increase of 0.08, p = .002). Longitudinal analysis of selected mRNA expression in PASTURE (cord blood, 1, 4.5, 6 years) showed that expression at age six had the strongest association with asthma and correlation of genes getting larger over time (r = .59, p < .001, 4.5–6 years).

Conclusion

Applying epidemiological predictors alone showed moderate predictive abilities. Molecular markers from birth modestly improved prediction. Allergic symptoms/diagnoses enhanced the power of prediction, which is important for clinical practice and for the design of future studies with molecular markers.
Differential effect of endogenous glucagon‐like peptide‐1 on prandial glucose counterregulatory response to hypoglycaemia in humans with and without bariatric surgery
Authors: Honka Henri , Gastaldelli Amalia , Pezzica Samantha , Peterson Richard , DeFronzo Ralph , Salehi Marzieh
Published: April 2024

Aim

To determine the effect of endogenous glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1) on prandial counterregulatory response to hypoglycaemia after gastric bypass (GB).

Materials and Methods

Glucose fluxes, and islet‐cell and gut hormone responses before and after mixed‐meal ingestion, were compared during a hyperinsulinaemic‐hypoglycaemic (~3.2 mmol/L) clamp with and without a GLP‐1 receptor (GLP‐1R) antagonist exendin‐(9–39) infusion in non‐diabetic patients who had previously undergone GB compared to matched participants who had previously undergone sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and non‐surgical controls.

Results

Exendin‐(9–39) infusion raised prandial endogenous glucose production (EGP) response to insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia in the GB group but had no consistent effect on EGP response among the SG group or non‐surgical controls (p < 0.05 for interaction). The rates of systemic appearance of ingested glucose or prandial glucose utilization did not differ among the three groups or between studies with and without exendin‐(9–39) infusion. Blockade of GLP‐1R had no effect on insulin secretion or insulin action but enhanced prandial glucagon in all three groups.

Conclusions

These results indicate that impaired post‐meal glucose counterregulatory response to hypoglycaemia after GB is partly mediated by endogenous GLP‐1, highlighting a novel pathogenic mechanism of GLP‐1 in developing hypoglycaemia in this population.
Effects of cold storage temperature, host status, and larval stage on the biological characteristics of Cotesia chilonis
Authors: Dong Chuan‐Lei , Zhu Feng , Du Yu‐Zhou , Lu Ming‐Xing
Published: April 2024

Shelf life is an important determinant of the quality of parasitoids used as natural enemies in augmentation biological control. Cotesia chilonis (Munakata) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), an obligate endoparasitoid of Chilo suppressalis (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), has potential for use through augmentation biological control in China. Here, the effects of cold storage temperature, host status, and larval stage on the biological characteristics of C. chilonis were investigated to extend the agent's shelf life. Results showed that the number of healthy C. chilonis adults obtained was reduced by 3.5% and 47.7% when C. suppressalis larvae in either natural or induced diapause were used as hosts compared to nondiapausing control larvae. Both parasitism and cold storage significantly reduced the supercooling point of nondiapausing C. suppressalis larvae, whereas the opposite result was observed in those of natural diapause. In order to improve the long‐term storage of C. chilonis, nondiapausing C. suppressalis larvae were parasitized for 1, 3, 5, and 7 days to allow C. chilonis to develop into different larval stages before being transferred into cold storage for 30 days at 4 or 10°C. Compared to the control, the C. chilonis cocoon formation and emergence rates of the 1‐day‐old egg treatment group held at 10°C were reduced by 15% and 17%, respectively. The results also showed that the duration of the larval stage of C. chilonis was prolonged fourfold after storage at 4 and 10°C. Individuals held at 10°C had a significantly longer cocoon and adult stage compared to those held at 4°C. The biological parameters and life history of the F1 generation of C. chilonis returned to normal levels under laboratory conditions. In conclusion, C. suppressalis larvae were successfully used to extend the shelf life of C. chilonis for use in augmentative biocontrol programs.
How useful is genomic data for predicting maladaptation to future climate?
Authors: Lind Brandon M. , Candido‐Ribeiro Rafael , Singh Pooja , Lu Mengmeng , Obreht Vidakovic Dragana , Booker Tom R. , Whitlock Michael C. , Yeaman Sam , Isabel Nathalie , Aitken Sally N.
Published: April 2024

Methods using genomic information to forecast potential population maladaptation to climate change or new environments are becoming increasingly common, yet the lack of model validation poses serious hurdles toward their incorporation into management and policy. Here, we compare the validation of maladaptation estimates derived from two methods—Gradient Forests (GFoffset) and the risk of non‐adaptedness (RONA)—using exome capture pool‐seq data from 35 to 39 populations across three conifer taxa: two Douglas‐fir varieties and jack pine. We evaluate sensitivity of these algorithms to the source of input loci (markers selected from genotype–environment associations [GEA] or those selected at random). We validate these methods against 2‐ and 52‐year growth and mortality measured in independent transplant experiments. Overall, we find that both methods often better predict transplant performance than climatic or geographic distances. We also find that GFoffset and RONA models are surprisingly not improved using GEA candidates. Even with promising validation results, variation in model projections to future climates makes it difficult to identify the most maladapted populations using either method. Our work advances understanding of the sensitivity and applicability of these approaches, and we discuss recommendations for their future use.
Widespread habitat loss leads to ecosystem‐scale decrease in trophic function
Authors: James W. Ryan , Furman Bradley T. , Rodemann Jonathan R. , Costa Sophia V. , Fratto Zachary W. , Nelson James A. , Rehage Jennifer S. , Santos Rolando O.
Published: April 2024

Natural and anthropogenic disturbances have led to rapid declines in the amount and quality of available habitat in many ecosystems. Many studies have focused on how habitat loss has affected the composition and configuration of habitats, but there have been fewer studies that investigate how this loss affects ecosystem function. We investigated how a large‐scale seagrass die‐off altered the distribution of energetic resources of three seagrass‐associated consumers with varied resource use patterns. Using long‐term benthic habitat monitoring data and resource use data from Bayesian stable isotope mixing models, we generated energetic resource landscapes (E‐scapes) annually between 2007 and 2019. E‐scapes link the resources being used by a consumer to the habitats that produce those resources to calculate a habitat resource index as a measurement of energetic quality of the landscape. Overall, our results revealed that following the die‐off there was a reduction in trophic function across all species in areas affected by the die‐off event, but the response was species‐specific and dependent on resource use and recovery patterns. This study highlights how habitat loss can lead to changes in ecosystem function. Incorporating changes in ecosystem function into models of habitat loss could improve understanding of how species will respond to future change.
Improvement of the antifreeze activity of tilapia skin collagen peptides through enzymatic supramolecular assembly approach
Authors: Ouyang Jijin , Han Mei , Majura Julieth Joram , Chen Xiujuan , Tan Mingtang , Chen Zhongqin , Gao Jialong , Zheng Huina , Lin Haisheng , Cao Wenhong
Published: April 2024

Enzymatic supramolecular assembly was applied to increase the thermal hysteresis activity (THA) of tilapia skin collagen peptides and their applicability as cryoprotectants. The THA value of the glutamine‐assembled product increased by 61.5% and its ice crystal content dropped by 33.93% compared to the collagen peptides. Following initial separation and purification, the THA of Gln‐AFPs was further elevated by 28.6%. After five freeze–thaw cycles, tilapia surimi treated with 8% Gln‐AFPs had high levels of salt‐soluble protein, total sulfhydryl content, Ca2+‐ATPase activity, and water‐holding capacity. Additionally, the cryoprotective effect of Gln‐AFPs on the surimi was found to be superior to that of commercial antifreeze. The majority of the Gln‐AFPs turns folded, according to FTIR analysis, and ‐helices were produced. After supramolecular assembly, the Gln‐AFPs structure also smoothed out. As a result, the enzymatic supramolecular assembly drastically increased the antifreeze activity of the tilapia skin‐collagen peptides, which could eventually be developed into a novel antifreeze additive in the food industry.
Brown rice protein–dietary fibre conjugate improves bioaccessibility of minerals via modifying gelling structure of yoghurt
Authors: Akalan Merve , Karakuş Mehmet Şükrü , Özaslan Zeynep Tuğba , Başyiğit Bülent , Karaaslan Asliye , Karaaslan Mehmet
Published: April 2024

The present study aims to provide an overview of the impact of brown rice protein (BRP) conjugated with microcrystalline cellulose via the Maillard reaction on characteristic features of yoghurt and the bioaccessibility of essential minerals in this dairy product. The confirmation of conjugation was conducted using FTIR spectroscopy. Adding BRP or Maillard conjugate (MC) proved beneficial in enhancing the water‐holding capacity and decreasing the syneresis of samples. Additionally, yoghurt (MCY) containing the Maillard conjugate demonstrated superior performance in these properties. A lower number of pores and a stronger gel network (structural integrity) were identified in MCY compared to the other samples (BRPY: yoghurt containing BRP and PY: plain yoghurt). On the other hand, in general, supplementation of BRP and MC led to slight alteration in the concentration of aroma compounds. Similarly, the impact of BRP and MC on changes in the molecular weight distribution of proteins during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion was negligible. Bioaccessibility values of Ca and Mg in PY were 53.72% and 10.72%, respectively. The improvement in these values was observed in BRPY (Ca: 57.33% and Mg: 15.60%). Moreover, adding MC to yoghurt led to a tighter interface structure (indicating rigid gel), which allowed more minerals to bind, increasing mineral bioaccessibility (Ca: 64.40% and Mg: 31.14%). A higher general acceptability in sensory evaluation was scored for PY followed by MCY and BRPY. Ultimately, the positive effect of ingredients (especially MC) on yoghurt quality was obvious.
Meat‐reduced sausage substituted with germinated mung bean flour: proximate composition, physicochemical properties, and sensory acceptability
Authors: Le Thi Kim Yen , Nguyen Kieu Diem , Hoang Kim Anh
Published: April 2024

The effects of substituting meat with germinated mung bean flour (GMF) was evaluated as a possible way to reduce the meat content of sausages. Replacement ratios of 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% were used and the proximate composition, amino acid profile, physicochemical properties (cooking yield and emulsion stability, instrumental texture, and colour), microstructure (by scanning electron microscopy), and overall liking of the sausage products were evaluated. The results showed that elevating the meat substitution ratio from 0% to 25% using GMF increased the protein, carbohydrate, and ash content by 1.14, 2.49, and 1.16 times, while reducing moisture and fat content by 1.16 and 1.2 times. Simultaneously, the total phenolic content (TPC) increased by 46%, accompanied by a 20% rise in antioxidant capacity. Incorporating GMF into the meat‐reduced sausages not only increased the amount of total amino acid and ratio of essential amino acid (EAA) but also enhanced their emulsion stability and cooking yield. The 10%–15% meat substitute samples had the closest colour and textural characteristics to the control and were accepted by the consumers.
Radiation‐induced fibrosis: Mechanisms and therapeutic strategies from an immune microenvironment perspective
Authors: Zheng Mengting , Liu Zhonglong , He Yue
Published: April 2024

Radiation‐induced fibrosis (RIF) is a severe chronic complication of radiotherapy (RT) manifested by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) components deposition within the irradiated area. The lung, heart, skin, jaw, pelvic organs and so on may be affected by RIF, which hampers body functions and quality of life. There is accumulating evidence suggesting that the immune microenvironment may play a key regulatory role in RIF. This article discussed the synergetic or antagonistic effects of immune cells and mediators in regulating RIF's development. Several potential preventative and therapeutic strategies for RIF were proposed based on the immunological mechanisms to provide clinicians with improved cognition and clinical treatment guidance.
An innovative low‐cost breast pump‐hire program to enhance breastfeeding rates in a neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Sweet Linda , Hughes Jessica , Rasheed Asiyath , Vasilevski Vidanka
Published: April 2024

Aim

To evaluate the outcomes of a low‐cost hospital‐grade breast pump hire program for women experiencing financial hardship with infants in neonatal intensive care.

Design

A multi‐method evaluation including data audits and surveys.

Methods

Twenty‐four electric breast pumps were purchased and rented to mothers at a cost of $1/day. To be eligible, mothers needed to have given birth to an infant <32 weeks and/or <1500 g and self‐identified as experiencing financial hardship. Data were collected by (1) a retrospective audit to evaluate infant feeding and clinical outcomes at hospital discharge; (2) prospective telephone surveys to evaluate women's satisfaction with the program; and (3) analysis of the breast pump register to determine any loss or damages.

Results

Twenty‐four mothers of 26 infants participated in the program. More than half of the infants were exclusively breastmilk fed at hospital discharge, and more than three‐quarters were fed a combination of breastmilk and formula. Women who intended to formula feed were supported to provide breastmilk to their infants in the first few weeks of life.

Most participants were highly satisfied with the program. Women reported that accessibility to a hospital‐grade breast pump improved their ability to provide expressed breastmilk to their infants. Most participants were ‘extremely satisfied’ with the performance of the breast pump. One‐quarter of the women reported that they would have exclusively formula‐fed if they did not have access to the breast pump hire program. The audit of the equipment register showed no reported technical issues, loss or damages.

Conclusion

The findings suggested that the low‐cost breast pump hire program supported equitable care, increasing women's ability to provide expressed breastmilk for their infants.

Impact

Providing access to low‐cost hospital‐grade breast pumps to mothers of vulnerable infants is likely to prevent poor infant clinical outcomes and improve women's care satisfaction.

Public or Patient Contribution

Nil.
Raise‐up technique for the creation of left atrial roof lesion: A useful technique with cryoballoon for persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Kujiraoka Hirofumi , Suzuki Atsushi , Kawaguchi Naohiko , Amemiya Miki , Sakai Eiko , Setoguchi Mirei , Kawamoto Shiho , Sato Kuniyoshi , Ochida Mie , Watanabe Shingo , Nakajima Jun , Yoshikawa Shunji , Usui Michio , Sasano Tetsuo , Yamauchi Yasuteru
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Recent studies have reported the efficacy of the cryoballoon (CB)‐guided left atrial roof block line (LARB) creation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). However, it can be technically challenging to attach the balloon to the left atrial (LA) roof due to its anatomical variations. We designed a new procedure called the “Raise‐up Technique,” which may facilitate the firm adhesion of the CB to the LA roof during freezing. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the Raise‐up technique in LARB creation.

Methods and Results

In total, 100 consecutive patients with persistent AF who underwent CB‐LARB creation were enrolled. Fifty‐seven patients underwent LARB creation using the Raise‐up technique (Raise‐up group), and the remaining 43 did not use it (control group). The Raise‐up technique was performed as follows: An Achieve catheter was inserted as deeply as possible into the upper branch of the right superior pulmonary vein to anchor the CB. The balloon was placed below the targeted site on the LA roof and frozen. When the temperature of the CB reached approximately −10°C and the CB was easier to attach to the LA tissue, the CB was raised and pressed against the LA roof immediately by sheath advancement. Then the balloon could be in firm contact with the target site on the roof. If necessary, additional sheath advancement after sufficient freezing (−20°C to −30°C) was allowed the CB to have more firm and broad contact with the target site. LARB creation without touch‐up ablation was achieved in 54 of 57 patients (94.7%) in the Raise‐up group and 33 of 43 patients (76.7%) in the control group (p < .05). The lesion size of the LARB in the Raise‐up group was significantly larger than that in the control group (15.2 cm2 vs. 12.8 cm2, p < .05). Moreover, the width of the LARB lesion in the Raise‐up group was wider than that in the control group (32.0 mm vs. 26.6 mm, p < .05).

Conclusion

The Raise‐up technique enabled the creation of seamless and thick LARB lesions with a single stroke. In addition, the CB‐LARB lesions created using the Raise‐up technique tended to be large, resulting in extensive debulking of the LA posterior wall arrhythmia substrates. In CB ablation for persistent AF, the Raise‐up technique can be considered one of the key strategies for LARB creation.
New shark in the park: Tiger shark Galeocerdo cuvier observations in the remote South Pacific
Authors: Coghlan Amy Rose , Morales Naiti
Published: April 2024

We present the first photographic records of the tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) at the remote Rapa Nui (Easter Island) in the south‐east Pacific. Previous anecdotal sightings exist for tiger sharks in this region; however these records have not been reported within the scientific domain. The present sighting occurred in a period of unusually warm sea surface temperature, which has been shown to influence tiger shark range extensions elsewhere. Novel and historic species occurrence records are valuable for determining and predicting species' environmental tolerances, migratory routes, and distributional limits.
Study on heat and moisture transfer of nonspherical rice during hot‐air drying in thin‐layer grain pile
Authors: Li Xin , Yang Kaimin , Wang Yuancheng , Du Xinming
Published: April 2024

To investigate fluid flow and coupled heat‐moisture transfer in the hot‐air drying of grain piles, this study integrated the discrete‐element method with computational fluid dynamics. A model for a thin‐layer grain pile, consisting of nonspherical rice particles represented by 13 spheres, was developed. Using a heat‐moisture transfer model based on fluid–solid coupling, the drying process with hot air was simulated and validated against experimental data. Finally, by controlling the drying temperature and the initial moisture content of rice, the variations in temperature and moisture content during the hot‐air drying process were explored. The numerical results indicated that the nonuniform pore structure within the grain pile, gaps on the surface of nonspherical rice, and the wall effect led to complex airflow patterns, resulting in the formation of dead zones within the grain pile. The oscillation frequency and amplitude of radial porosity near the wall were relatively large, and the minimum porosity occurred at a radial distance of 1/2dg. Heat and moisture transfer rates between the rice and drying air were influenced by the temperature and moisture concentration differences. During the drying process, variations in temperature and moisture content were observed among rice particles. Limited by the moisture diffusion coefficient, there existed a notable disparity in moisture content between the interior and surface of the rice. The results also showed that the curvature of the drying curve in the grain pile varied and was influenced by the drying conditions, especially under the high‐temperature drying condition of 60°C.

Practical Applications

In this study, a grain pile model for nonspherical rice particles composed of 13 spheres was developed based on the discrete‐element method and computational fluid dynamics. Furthermore, in accordance with the heat and mass transfer mechanism of fluid–solid coupling, a heat‐moisture transfer model for the hot‐air drying of the grain pile was constructed. This was done to deeply explore the internal fluid dynamic characteristics and the heat‐moisture transfer within the grain pile during the drying process. The newly established model can be widely applied to numerical simulation studies of drying and also has reference value for the design of drying systems.
Should product‐specific advertisement be regulated in pharmaceutical markets?
Authors: Ishida Junichiro , Takahara Tsuyoshi
Published: April 2024

This paper examines the optimal content regulation of direct‐to‐consumer advertisement (DTCA) by comparing two forms of DTCA—product‐specific and category‐specific—and identifies a key tradeoff which underlies this policy debate. Our analysis suggests that the optimal form of DTCA depends crucially on the cost effectiveness of DTCA and the market‐size distortion induced by DTCA. When the cost of advertisement is high, there often exists a Pareto‐improving policy choice: category‐specific DTCA is preferred when the market‐size distortion is more severe while produce DTCA is preferred when it is less so. As the cost decreases, however, a conflict emerges between pharmaceutical firms and patients: firms are worse off under product‐specific DTCA while patients are better off. We also find that the physician's reluctance to persuade misinformed patients can actually alleviate the market‐size distortion and hence be welfare‐enhancing.
Homeobox gene‐encoded transcription factors in development and mature circadian function of the rodent pineal gland
Authors: Rath Martin F.
Published: April 2024

Homeobox genes encode transcription factors that are widely known to control developmental processes. This is also the case in the pineal gland, a neuroendocrine brain structure devoted to nighttime synthesis of the hormone melatonin. Thus, in accordance with high prenatal gene expression, knockout studies have identified a specific set of homeobox genes that are essential for development of the pineal gland. However, as a special feature of the pineal gland, homeobox gene expression persists into adulthood, and gene product abundance exhibits 24 h circadian rhythms. Recent lines of evidence show that some homeobox genes even control expression of enzymes catalyzing melatonin synthesis. We here review current knowledge of homeobox genes in the rodent pineal gland and suggest a model for dual functions of homeobox gene‐encoded transcription factors in developmental and circadian mature neuroendocrine function.