bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A machine learning model for predicting blood concentration of quetiapine in patients with schizophrenia and depression based on real‐world data
Authors: Hao Yupei , Zhang Jinyuan , Yang Lin , Zhou Chunhua , Yu Ze , Gao Fei , Hao Xin , Pang Xiaolu , Yu Jing
Published: April 2023

Aims

This study aimed to establish a prediction model of quetiapine concentration in patients with schizophrenia and depression, based on real‐world data via machine learning techniques to assist clinical regimen decisions.

Methods

A total of 650 cases of quetiapine therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) data from 483 patients at the First Hospital of Hebei Medical University from 1 November 2019 to 31 August 2022 were included in the study. Univariate analysis and sequential forward selection (SFS) were implemented to screen the important variables influencing quetiapine TDM. After 10‐fold cross validation, the algorithm with the optimal model performance was selected for predicting quetiapine TDM among nine models. SHapley Additive exPlanation was applied for model interpretation.

Results

Four variables (daily dose of quetiapine, type of mental illness, sex and CYP2D6 competitive substrates) were selected through univariate analysis (P < .05) and SFS to establish the models. The CatBoost algorithm with the best predictive ability (mean [SD] R2 = 0.63 ± 0.02, RMSE = 137.39 ± 10.56, MAE = 103.24 ± 7.23) was chosen for predicting quetiapine TDM among nine models. The mean (SD) accuracy of the predicted TDM within ±30% of the actual TDM was 49.46 ± 3.00%, and that of the recommended therapeutic range (200–750 ng mL−1) was 73.54 ± 8.3%. Compared with the PBPK model in a previous study, the CatBoost model shows slightly higher accuracy within ±100% of the actual value.

Conclusions

This work is the first real‐world study to predict the blood concentration of quetiapine in patients with schizophrenia and depression using artificial intelligent techniques, which is of significance and value for clinical medication guidance.
What drives CAR‐T emergent cytopenia?
Authors: Hills Robert K.
Published: April 2023

Prolonged cytopenia after CAR‐T cell therapy is an acknowledged problem. At present, the causes and implications of prolonged cytopenia are unclear. The paper by Kitamura et al identified that prolonged cytopenia is associated with alterations in the bone marrow niche identified before CAR‐T therapy, indicating a potential predictor of this serious side‐effect of treatment.

Commentary on: Kitamura et al. Bone marrow microenvironment disruption and sustained inflammation with prolonged haematologic toxicity after CAR T‐cell therapy? Br J Haematol 2023;202:294‐307.
Missing the bigger picture: Why insect monitoring programs are limited in their ability to document the effects of habitat loss
Authors: Forister M. L. , Black S. H. , Elphick C. S. , Grames E. M. , Halsch C. A. , Schultz C. B. , Wagner D. L.
Published: April 2023

The fate of insects in the Anthropocene has been widely discussed in the scientific literature, the popular media, and in policy circles. This recent attention is justified because reductions in insect abundance and diversity have the potential to undermine the stability of terrestrial ecosystems. Reports of insect declines have also been accompanied by skepticism that is healthy and to be expected in scientific discussion. However, we are concerned about a prevalent misconception that equates reports from monitored natural areas with the global status of insects. In the vast majority of cases, areas monitored for arthropods are undeveloped and thus do not record or even necessarily reflect the masses of insects that are continuously being impacted by habitat loss to urban, suburban and agricultural expansion. We address this misconception and discuss ways in which conservation and policy can be enhanced by correctly locating results from insect monitoring programs within our broader knowledge of biodiversity loss.
All in the family? The impact of founder directors and family governance on microfinance institutions' social performance
Authors: Hossain Shahadat , Galbreath Jeremy , Hasan Mostafa Monzur , Randøy Trond
Published: April 2023

Research Question/Issue

This study investigates the impact of family governance, including founder directors and their ties to family members on the board, on the social performance of microfinance institutions (MFIs), a special kind of social enterprise with dual objectives.

Research Findings/Insights

Using a dataset of 735 MFIs operating in Bangladesh from 2007 to 2017, we find that founder directors and board members with family ties to the founder have an adverse impact on MFIs' social performance. These findings hold when we perform several robustness tests and endogeneity tests.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

We contribute to the corporate governance literature on MFIs and social enterprises in two ways. First, our findings suggest that, when MFIs are confronted with dual performance objectives, founder directors may “trade off” social outcomes in favor of economic outcomes and therefore adversely affect MFIs' social performance. Second, our findings extend the literature by showing that the presence of board members with family ties to founder directors also adversely affects MFIs' social performance.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

This study suggests that MFIs' board composition influences their governance and ability to oversee their social and financial performance effectively. If MFIs' social performance is a major concern of national policy makers, then regulation should be put in place to limit board recruitment with family ties.
Stroke phenotype in cannabis users among young adults with ischemic stroke
Authors: Gueyraud Gabriel , Guidolin Brigitte , Olivot Jean‐Marc , Lerebours Fleur , Barbieux‐Guillot Marianne , Larrue Vincent , Gollion Cédric
Published: April 2023

Background and purpose

Incidence of ischemic stroke in young adults has been steadily increasing over the past 20 years. One hypothesis to explain this phenomenon is the increase in the use of illicit drugs, including cannabis. However, the mechanisms and the clinical presentation of ischemic stroke associated with cannabis use are unclear. The objective of this study was to describe the phenotype of ischemic stroke in cannabis users compared to nonusers among a population of young adults with a first‐ever ischemic stroke.

Methods

Patients aged 18–54 years consecutively hospitalized in a university department of neurology for a first‐ever ischemic stroke from January 2017 to July 2021 were included. Drug use over the past year was assessed by a semistructured interview, and the stroke phenotype was described using the ASCOD classification.

Results

A total of 691 patients, including 78 of 691 (11.3%) cannabis users, were included. Cannabis use was independently associated with potential A1 (odds ratio [OR] = 3.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.45–7.5, p = 0.004) and uncertain A2 (OR = 13.1, 95% CI = 2.89–59.4, p < 0.001) atherosclerotic cause of stroke after adjustment for vascular risk factors including tobacco and other drug use. Moreover, the association of atherosclerosis and cannabis use was significant for frequent (OR = 3.13, 95% CI = 1.07–8.6, p = 0.030) and daily cannabis use (OR = 4.43, 95% CI = 1.40–13.4, p = 0.008), but not for occasional use.

Conclusions

We found a significant, independent, and graded association of cannabis use with the atherosclerotic stroke phenotype.
Shapes of cervical articular process joints and association with histological evidence of osteochondrosis in Warmblood foals: A post‐mortem study
Authors: Bergmann Wilhelmina , Vernooij Johannes C. M. , Grinwis Guy C. M. , Gröne Andrea
Published: April 2023

Background

Osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of articular process joints (APJs) is involved in cervical vertebral compressive myelopathy (CVM). Biomechanical forces, important in development of OCD, depend on joint conformation. Oval and flat APJ surfaces are considered normal.

Objectives

To identify and grade gross shape variation of cervical and cranial thoracic APJ surfaces and determine association with histological evidence of osteochondrosis.

Study design

Case series.

Methods

Eight hundred and four cervical and cranial thoracic APJ surfaces of 30 foals were evaluated for shape(s) and grades, and were correlated with osteochondrosis.

Results

Three top view shapes (oval, pointed, elongated) and seven lateral view shapes (flat, convex, concave, stepped, bevelled, folded edge, raised edge) were regularly encountered. The oval top view shape was most common. Flat and bevelled were the most common lateral view shapes. General shape grade of caudal articular surfaces was significantly higher than of cranial surfaces. The combinations of an oval top view shape and the lateral view shapes folded edge, concave, or flat with additional raised edge and/or folded edge (flat +), were more likely to have OC than oval with convex, bevelled or flat lateral view shapes (normal vs. oval and folded, odds ratio [OR] 2.49 [95% confidence intervals (CIs) 1.13–5.67]; normal vs. oval and flat +, OR 2.77 [95% CI 1.15–6.85]; oval and convex vs. oval and folded, OR 3.20 [95% CI 1.35–8.20]; oval and convex vs. oval and flat +, OR 3.56 [95% CI 1.43–9.54]; oval and bevelled vs. oval and concave, OR 2.02 [95% CI 1.14–3.60]; oval and bevelled vs. oval and folded, OR 3.50 [95% CI 1.91–6.60]; oval and bevelled vs. oval and flat +, OR 3.90 [95% CI 2.00–7.70]).

Main limitations

Most foals (21/30) were less than 1 month old. Lack of observer reliability scores for shape and shape grade.

Conclusion

APJs shape might contribute to CVM by increased likelihood to have OC.
Design and validation of neuronal exocytosis blocking peptides as potential novel antiperspirants
Authors: Butron Laura , Nikolaeva‐Koleva Magdalena , Sempere Ana , Rivero Verónica , Fernandez‐Ballester Gregorio , Espinosa Ana , Vergassola Matteo , Mastrocola Elena , Zucchi Sara , Ragni Lorella , Fernández‐Carvajal Asia , Mangano Giorgina , Ferrer‐Montiel Antonio , Devesa Isabel
Published: April 2023

Thermoregulation and heat dissipation by sweat production and evaporation are vital for human survival. However, hyperhidrosis or excessive perspiration might affect people's quality of life by causing discomfort and stress. The prolonged use of classical antiperspirants, anticholinergic medications or botulinum toxin injections for persistent hyperhidrosis might produce diverse side effects that limit their clinical use. Inspired by botox molecular mode of action, we used an in silico molecular modelling approach to design novel peptides to target neuronal acetylcholine exocytosis by interfering with the Snapin‐SNARE complex formation. Our exhaustive design rendered the selection of 11 peptides that decreased calcium‐dependent vesicle exocytosis in rat DRG neurons, reducing αCGRP release and TRPV1 inflammatory sensitization. The most potent peptides were palmitoylated peptides SPSR38‐4.1 and SPSR98‐9.1 that significantly suppressed acetylcholine release in vitro in human LAN‐2 neuroblastoma cells. Noteworthy, local acute and chronic administration of SPSR38‐4.1 peptide significantly decreased, in a dose‐dependent manner, pilocarpine‐induced sweating in an in vivo mouse model. Taken together, our in silico approach lead to the identification of active peptides able to attenuate excessive sweating by modulating neuronal acetylcholine exocytosis, and identified peptide SPSR38‐4.1 as a promising new antihyperhidrosis candidate for clinical development.
Comparison of machine learning models within different spatial resolutions for predicting the bigeye tuna fishing grounds in tropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Song Liming , Li Tianlai , Zhang Tianjiao , Sui Hengshou , Li Bin , Zhang Min
Published: April 2023

To understand the effects of the machine learning models and the spatial resolutions on the prediction accuracy of bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) fishing grounds, logbook data of 13 Chinese longliners operating in the high seas of the Atlantic Ocean from 2016 to 2019 were collected. The environmental factors were selected based on the correlation analysis of calculation of catch per unit effort (CPUE) and the marine vertical environmental factors. Five machine learning models: random forest, gradient‐boosting decision tree, K‐nearest neighbor, logistic regression and stacking ensemble learning (STK) within four spatial resolutions of .5° × .5°, 1° × 1°, 2° × 2° and 5° × 5° grids were constructed and compared. Results showed that (1) the prediction performance of STK model was the best, with the highest scores of the four evaluation indexes, accuracy (Acc), precision (P), recall (R), and F1‐score (F1), and the highest correct prediction rate for predicting “high CPUE fishing ground”; (2) models within the spatial resolution of 1° × 1° grids predicted the better results compared with .5° × .5°, 2° × 2° and 5° × 5° grids; (3) the vertical environmental factors selected based on the correlation analysis could be used as reliable predictors in the models. Results suggested that using STK within 1° × 1° grids could improve the generalization performance and prediction accuracy for predicting the bigeye tuna fishing grounds in the Atlantic Ocean.
Infectivity of the parasite Metschnikowia bicuspidata is decreased by time spent as a transmission spore, but exposure to phycotoxins in the water column has no effect
Authors: Sánchez Kristel F. , Zhong Baili , Agudelo Jorge A. , Duffy Meghan A.
Published: April 2023

Transmission from one host to another is a crucial component of parasite fitness. For some aquatic parasites, transmission occurs via a free‐living stage that spends time in the water, awaiting an encounter with a new host. These parasite transmission stages can be impacted by biotic and abiotic factors that influence the parasite's ability to successfully infect or grow in a new host.

Here we tested whether time spent in the water column and/or exposure to common cyanobacterial toxins impacted parasite transmission stages. More specifically, we tested whether the infectivity, within host growth, and virulence of the fungal parasite Metschnikowia bicuspidata changed as a result of time spent in the water or from exposure to cyanotoxins in the water column. We exposed parasite transmission spores to different levels of one of two ecologically important cyanotoxins, microcystin‐LR and anatoxin‐a, and factorially manipulated the amount of time spores were incubated in water. We removed the toxins and used those same spores to infect one genotype of the common lake zooplankton Daphnia dentifera.

We found that cyanotoxins did not impact parasite fitness (infection prevalence and spore yield per infected host) or virulence (host lifetime reproduction and survivorship) at the tested concentrations (10 and 30 μg/L). However, we found that spending longer as a transmission spore decreased a spore's chances for successful infection: spores that were only incubated for 24 hr infected approximately 75% of exposed hosts, whereas spores incubated for 10 days infected less than 50% of exposed hosts.

We also found a negative relationship between the final spore yield from infected hosts and the proportion of hosts that became infected. In treatments where spores spent longer in the water column prior to encountering a host, infection prevalence was lower (indicating lower per spore infectivity), but each infected host yielded more spores at the end of infection. We hypothesise that this pattern may result from intraspecific parasite competition within the host.

Overall, these results suggest that transmission spores of this parasite are not strongly influenced by cyanotoxins in the water column, but that other aspects of spending time in the water strongly influence parasite fitness.
Thermal tolerance of tropical and temperate alpine plants suggests that ‘mountain passes are not higher in the tropics’
Authors: Sklenář Petr , Jaramillo Ricardo , Wojtasiak Susanne Sivila , Meneses Rosa Isela , Muriel Priscilla , Klimeš Adam
Published: April 2023

Aim

Tolerance of species to extreme temperatures largely determines their distribution and vulnerability to climate change. We examined thermal tolerance in tropical and temperate alpine plants, testing the hypotheses that: (a) temperate plants are resistant to more extreme temperatures and have an overall wider thermal tolerance breadth (TTB); (b) TTB in temperate plants is wider than TTB in tropical plants during the entire growing season; (c) resistance to frost and heat varies during the season in temperate plants but not in tropical plants; (d) TTB of a species predicts its latitudinal range.

Location

Tropical (Ecuador, Bolivia) and temperate (USA, Austria) mountains.

Time period

Four periods of the growing season (2014, 2016–2019).

Major taxa

Ninety‐six vascular plant species.

Methods

We employed the electrolyte leakage method to estimate the temperature resistance, that is, the temperature at which 50% tissue injury (Lt50) occurs in leaves. We used phylogenetic linear mixed‐effect models in a Bayesian framework to test for differences between the plant groups.

Results

Temperate and tropical plants do not differ in their temperature resistance. The four hypotheses are rejected since: (a) temperate plants do not have significantly wider overall TTB compared to tropical plants, (b) TTB of temperate plants is wider than TTB of tropical plants only at the end of the temperate summer, (c) seasonal acclimation is observed in both plant groups, (d) the latitudinal range of the plants is not related to TTB.

Main conclusions

The lack of TTB differences between temperate and tropical alpine plants is consistent with trends observed in ectothermic animals, which suggests a general latitudinal pattern in high‐elevation poikilotherm organisms. Limited acclimation capacity to cope with long freezing exposures restricts the occurrence of tropical alpine species to thermally aseasonal environments making them particularly vulnerable to climate change.
Dialysis education and options for late presenters—An ongoing dilemma
Authors: Zhang Yimeng , Baharani Jyoti
Published: April 2023

Pre‐dialysis education forms a crucial part of dialysis preparation. Acute start dialysis patients often commence and remain on in‐center hemodialysis (ICHD) without the benefit of an informed decision making process for kidney replacement therapy options. The aim of this review is to evaluate the evidence surrounding methods of education provision to the acute dialysis start population and their associated outcomes. Publications have described a holistic education pathway with multimedia provision of information and interactive experiences. One or more trained specialist nurses provided information over 3–5 sessions. Formal education was mostly initiated as an inpatient. 86%–100% of acute start dialysis patients are initiated and remain on ICHD. Following formal education, 21%–58% of patients chose peritoneal dialysis (PD), 10%–24% home hemodialysis, 33%–58% ICHD. This brings the number of patients maintained on an independent form of dialysis similar to the planned dialysis start population. Patients commenced on PD without needing temporary hemodialysis, hence avoided complications associated with such. Patients aged under 75 (p < 0.0001) and males (p = 0.006) were more likely to be influenced by education to select PD. The adjusted 5 year survival rates among discharged patients were similar between home and ICHD groups (73% vs. 71% respectively), with a comparable age of death. A targeted education program in the acute dialysis start population has proven to be feasible. Adaptations are likely required for each center; however, various methods have been shown to be effective, with an increased number of patients choosing an independent dialysis modality when given the choice.
Evaluation of Bach1 mRNA expression in patients with chronic kidney disease: A preliminary study
Authors: Mafra Denise , Alvarenga Livia , Ribeiro Marcia , Baptista Beatriz G. , Fanton Susane , Paiva Bruna R. , Trugilho Liana , Kemp Julie Ann , Alves‐Ribeiro Marcelo , Cardozo Ludmila F. M. F.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

BTB and CNC homology 1 (Bach1) is a protein that antagonizes some actions of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor‐2 (Nrf2), the master regulator of cytoprotective responses. Bach1 binds to genomic DNA and inhibits the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes, thereby increasing inflammation. Bach1 may be a therapeutic target for mitigating inflammation in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. However, no clinical study has been reported on Bach1 in this population. This study aimed to evaluate Bach1 mRNA expression with different treatments for CKD, including conservative treatment (nondialysis), hemodialysis (HD), and peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Methods

Twenty patients undergoing HD (56.5 [19] years), 15 on PD (54 [24] years) and 13 nondialysis patients (63 [10] years, with an estimated glomerular filtration rate of 41 [14] mL/min/1.73 m2) were enrolled in the study. The mRNA expression of Nrf2, NF‐kB, heme oxygenase 1 (HO‐1), and Bach1 was evaluated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Malondialdehyde (MDA) was evaluated as a lipid peroxidation marker. Routine biochemical parameters were also evaluated.

Findings

As expected, patients on dialysis were more inflamed. Bach1 mRNA expression was significantly higher in patients undergoing HD than in PD and nondialysis patients (p < 0.007). The mRNA expression of HO‐1, NF‐kB, and Nrf2 was not different in the groups.

Conclusion

In conclusion, CKD patients on HD exhibited an upregulation of Bach1 mRNA expression compared to patients on PD treatment and nondialysis CKD patients. The association between Nrf2 and Bach1 expression in these patients warrants further investigation.
Optimizing decisions for post‐harvest ripening agricultural produce supply chain management: a dynamic quality‐based model
Authors: Xie Ruhe , Zhang Yuan , Luo Huqiao , Yu Peiyun , Chen Zibo
Published: April 2023

Fresh agricultural produce, which is characterized by post‐harvest ripening and is required for long‐term transportation in cross‐regional trade, is commonly harvested at the unripe stage and undergoes a routine process of natural ripening followed by senescence. A model based on the dynamic quality of post‐harvest ripening agricultural produce (PRAP) was proposed to optimize decisions to improve supply chain profits. To verify its effectiveness and robustness, the model is applied to a real banana supply chain. The theoretical derivations and simulation results show that, first, the optimal retail price and presentation timing based on the model can maximize the supply chain profit. Second, the proper choice of the combination of picking maturity and preservation temperature based on the time from picking to the retailer can effectively improve the on‐shelf quality and supply chain profit. Third, supply chain management strategies for PRAP and fully ripened agricultural produce should be developed based on the different quality change characteristics of these two produce types.
Dilute iron‐doped polycrystalline strontium titanate: Tracking iron valence and local interactions
Authors: Knight Michael , Reimanis Ivar , Meyer Abigail , Preusker Jan‐Helmut , Rheinheimer Wolfgang
Published: April 2023

The mixed‐valence states of dilute Fe (0.2, 0.5, and 1.2 mol%) in bulk polycrystalline (SrTiO3) (STO) were determined. Specimens were sintered in air or O2 at 1500°C or 1300°C with the intent to quantify the relative valence states of Fe in the context of understanding microstructure development of Fe‐doped STO. Mössbauer spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, and magnetometry were combined to track changes in Fe valence, and Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction were used to describe the associated structural changes. Small concentrations of defect associates were detected, but the majority of Fe′Ti acceptors are isolated from oxygen vacancies. As doping increases, negative exchange interactions increase, consistent with an increase in the concentration of configurations. Additionally, the fraction of dopants existing as isovalent increased with of the sintering atmosphere and with total Fe content.
The Changing Discourses of EU Enlargement: A Longitudinal Analysis of National Parliamentary Debates
Authors: Economides Spyros , Featherstone Kevin , Hunter Tom
Published: April 2023

Domestic support for EU enlargement across existing member states is understood to have shifted significantly since 2004. But, how? Here, we explore how enlargement has been framed discursively in the national parliaments of eight member states. Our dataset comprises over 18,000 statements from 1989 to 2019. We link our exploration to alternative explanations for change: IR‐based shifts in how applicant states are perceived and, from comparative politics, the ‘politicisation’ of EU membership in domestic party systems. We analyse changes in salience, sentiment and thematic foci. Our results confirm shifts in the perceptions of individual applicant states over time and an increased concern with issues of ‘identity’ in relation to enlargement. We find that whilst salience has declined, sentiment has turned negative and explore the distinctive discourses of ‘challenger parties’ in this regard.
Commentary: Best practices and processes for assessment of autism spectrum disorder – the intended role of standardized diagnostic instruments
Authors: Bishop Somer L. , Lord Catherine
Published: April 2023

Development of standardized diagnostic instruments has facilitated the systematic characterization of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in clinical and research settings. However, overemphasis on scores from specific instruments has significantly detracted from the original purpose of these tools. Rather than provide a definitive “answer,” or even a confirmation of diagnosis, standardized diagnostic instruments were designed to aid clinicians in the process of gathering information about social communication, play, and repetitive and sensory behaviors relevant to diagnosis and treatment planning. Importantly, many autism diagnostic instruments are not validated for certain patient populations, including those with severe vision, hearing, motor, and/or cognitive impairments, and they cannot be administered via a translator. In addition, certain circumstances, such as the need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), or behavioral factors (e.g., selective mutism) may interfere with standardized administration or scoring procedures, rendering scores invalid. Thus, understanding the uses and limitations of specific tools within specific clinical or research populations, as well as similarities or differences between these populations and the instrument validation samples, is paramount. Accordingly, payers and other systems must not mandate the use of specific tools in cases when their use would be inappropriate. To ensure equitable access to appropriate assessment and treatment services, it is imperative that diagnosticians be trained in best practice methods for the assessment of autism, including if, how, and when to appropriately employ standardized diagnostic instruments.
Substrate colour guides turquoise killifish's (Nothobranchius furzeri) choice of preferred spawning habitat
Authors: Thoré Eli S. J. , Merckx Wouter
Published: April 2023

Turquoise killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri) is a promising new model species used in biomedical and ecological laboratory experiments, and should be kept under optimal conditions to ensure fish welfare and the quality of science. While the popularity of this model species is rapidly increasing, we need to improve our understanding of how the species interacts with its environment to optimize its husbandry. Specifically, turquoise killifish are substrate spawners that bury their eggs in the sediment, which can be accommodated under captive conditions, but it is not yet known whether or not turquoise killifish have a preference for a specific sediment colour. Here, we performed a laboratory experiment in which fish could choose between white, orange and black sand for spawning, colours which are relevant in both laboratory and field conditions. We assessed their preference in the context of single breeding pairs, as well as in a social group setting. Additionally, we also assessed the preference of individuals for a white versus black background in a nonmating context. Single breeding pairs deposited over 3.5 times more eggs in black compared to orange or white sand. Similarly, fish in social groups deposited over 3.5 times more eggs in black compared to orange sand, which in turn was over two times higher than that in white sand. Fish showed a slight preference for the black compared to the white zone in a nonmating context, but this did not correlate with substrate choice during the spawning tests. The results suggest that turquoise killifish select their preferred spawning location based on the colour of the substrate. These findings contribute to our understanding of the species' biology and can help to guide good welfare and scientific practice.
A method for measuring dielectric relaxation of water by NIR spectroscopy: Applicability and application to measurement of water diffusion coefficient
Authors: Zhang Junkai , Matsuura Hiroaki , Shirakashi Ryo
Published: April 2023

Deterioration of biomaterial is subject to the interaction between biomolecules and water, which is often of special interest to the realization of long‐term preservation. In previous study, we reported the relationship between dielectric rotational relaxation time and the ν2 + ν3 NIR combination band of water as well as the theory behind it using saccharide solutions as examples and proposed a method accordingly which takes advantages of the infrared microscope to measure the dielectric relaxation time of water in biomaterials. In this work, we examined protein, polypeptide, sugar alcohol and some shelf‐stable vegetables to further discuss its applicability and limit. We also proved that this method can be used for measuring water diffusion coefficient and showed example of how the diffusion coefficient can be used to predict water distribution during drying process at a significantly enhanced spatial resolution relative to other techniques.

Practical applications

Molecular mobility of water determines many properties of biomaterials and can be characterized by different spectroscopies. This paper examined the applicability of a method of calculating the dielectric relaxation time of water using NIR spectrum on different solutions and proved that this method may also be used for calculating the diffusion coefficient of water, a parameter subject to molecular mobility and crucial in the drying process. This paper also provided example of the application of this method in the calculation of water distribution during drying process. The high spatial resolution of infrared microscope relative to other techniques may enable the measurement of water dynamics in biomaterials in a much quicker way and smaller scale.
Association between combined spinal‐epidural analgesia and neurodevelopment at 3 years old: The Japan Environment and Children's Study
Authors: Noda Masahiro , Yoshida Satomi , Kawakami Chihiro , Takeuchi Masato , Kawakami Koji , Ito Shuichi ,   Japan Environment and Children's Study Group
Published: April 2023

Aim

To investigate the association between maternal combined spinal‐epidural analgesia during vaginal delivery and neurodevelopment in 3‐year‐old children.

Methods

Using data from the Japan Environment and Children's Study, a birth cohort study on pregnant women and their offspring, we described the background, perinatal outcomes, and neurodevelopmental outcomes of participants with a singleton pregnancy who received combined spinal‐epidural analgesia during vaginal delivery and those who did not. The association between maternal combined spinal‐epidural analgesia and abnormalities in five domains of the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, Third Edition, was analyzed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Crude and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated.

Results

Among 59 379 participants, 82 (0.1%) children (exposed group) were born to mothers who received combined spinal‐epidural analgesia during vaginal delivery. In the exposed versus control groups, 1.2% versus 3.7% had communication abnormalities (adjusted odds ratio [95% CI]: 0.30 [0.04–2.19]), 6.1% versus 4.1% exhibited gross‐motor abnormalities (1.36 [95% CI: 0.55–3.36]), 10.9% vs. 7.1% had fine‐motor abnormalities (1.46 [95% CI: 0.72–2.96]), 6.1% vs. 6.9% showed difficulties with problem‐solving (0.81 [95% CI: 0.33–2.01]), and 2.4% vs. 3.0% had personal‐social problems (0.70 [95% CI: 0.17–2.85]).

Conclusions

Exposure to combined spinal‐epidural analgesia during vaginal delivery was not associated with the risk of neurodevelopmental abnormalities; however, the sample size of our study might not be appropriate for the study design.
Effectiveness of teach‐back for chronic kidney disease patient education: A systematic review
Authors: M. H. Jagodage Hemamali , McGuire Amanda , Seib Charrlotte , Bonner Ann
Published: April 2023

Background

Education is an essential component in optimising chronic disease self‐management. Teach‐back is a robust approach in patient education, which is suitable for varying health literacy although its effectiveness in chronic kidney disease patient education is unknown.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of teach‐back method in health education for improving self‐management and adherence to treatment regimens in chronic kidney disease.

Design

Systematic review.

Participants

Adults with any chronic kidney disease grade or treatment modality.

Measurements

A comprehensive search was undertaken in MEDLINE, CINHAL, EMBASE, Cochrane library, PsychINFO, Web of Science, ERIC, JBI library and WHO International Clinical Trial Registry to identify published studies from September 2013 to December 2022. The methodological quality of studies was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines.

Results

Six studies involving 520 participants were retrieved for this review. A meta‐analysis could not be conducted due to substantial heterogeneity between studies. Nevertheless, there was some evidence that teach‐back could improve self‐management, self‐efficacy and knowledge. There was limited evidence on improvement in psychological outcomes or health‐related quality of life.

Conclusion

Teach‐back seems to improve both objective and patient‐reported outcomes, although further studies are needed. Using teach‐back can improve both understanding of health information and the development of skills. Kidney care teams could use teach‐back for all patients as it takes account of varying patient health literacy abilities. Teach‐back assists with communicating important health information to improve patients' knowledge, confidence and skills in self‐managing this disease and its treatment.
Captivity induces a sweeping and sustained genomic response in a starfish
Authors: Morin Marie , Jönsson Mathias , Wang Conan K. , Craik David J. , Degnan Sandie M. , Degnan Bernard M.
Published: April 2023

Marine animals in the wild are often difficult to access, so they are studied in captivity. However, the implicit assumption that physiological processes of animals in artificial environments are not different from those in the wild has rarely been tested. Here, we investigate the extent to which an animal is impacted by captivity by comparing global gene expression in wild and captive crown‐of‐thorns starfish (COTS). In a preliminary analysis, we compared transcriptomes of three external tissues obtained from multiple wild COTS with a single captive COTS maintained in aquaria for at least 1 week. On average, an astonishingly large 24% of the coding sequences in the genome were differentially expressed. This led us to conduct a replicated experiment to test more comprehensively the impact of captivity on gene expression. Specifically, a comparison of 13 wild with 8 captive COTS coelomocyte transcriptomes revealed significant differences in the expression of 20% of coding sequences. Coelomocyte transcriptomes in captive COTS remain different from those in wild COTS for more than 30 days and show no indication of reverting back to a wild state (i.e. no evidence of acclimation). Genes upregulated in captivity include those involved in oxidative stress and energy metabolism, whereas genes downregulated are involved in cell signalling. These changes in gene expression indicate that being translocated and maintained in captivity has a marked impact on the physiology and health of these echinoderms. This study suggests that caution should be exercised when extrapolating results from captive aquatic invertebrates to their wild counterparts.
Early‐life immune expression profiles predict later‐life health and fitness in a wild rodent
Authors: Wanelik Klara M. , Begon Mike , Bradley Janette E. , Friberg Ida M. , Taylor Christopher H. , Jackson Joseph A. , Paterson Steve
Published: April 2023

Individuals differ in the nature of the immune responses they produce, affecting disease susceptibility and ultimately health and fitness. These differences have been hypothesized to have an origin in events experienced early in life that then affect trajectories of immune development and responsiveness. Here, we investigate how early‐life immune expression profiles influence life history outcomes in a natural population of field voles, Microtus agrestis, in which we are able to monitor variation between and within individuals through time by repeat sampling of individually marked animals. We analysed the co‐expression of 20 immune genes in early life to create a correlation network consisting of three main clusters, one of which (containing Gata3, Il10 and Il17) was associated with later‐life reproductive success and susceptibility to chronic bacterial (Bartonella) infection. More detailed analyses supported associations between early‐life expression of Il17 and reproductive success later in life, and of Il10 expression early in life and later infection with Bartonella. We also found significant association between an Il17 genotype and the early‐life expression of Il10. Our results demonstrate that immune expression profiles can be manifested during early life with effects that persist through adulthood and that shape the variability among individuals in susceptibility to infection and fitness widely seen in natural populations.
The consequences of nationalism: A scholarly exchange
Authors: vom Hau Matthias , Helbling Marc , Tudor Maya , Wimmer Andreas , Halikiopoulou Daphne
Published: April 2023

The main thrust of the scholarship on nationalism has so far been concerned with its origins. But nationalism also has effects. Whether it underpins the nation‐building efforts of states, is mobilised by counter‐state forces or is used in everyday life, nationalism might implicate a wide range of substantive outcomes, including political regimes, public goods provision, citizenship and immigration laws, and different patterns of conflict. Yet—with a few notable exceptions—the consequences of nationalism have received significantly less scholarly attention. In response, the aim of this Exchange is to create a new dialogue between different strands of scholarship around what we know and do not know about the consequences of nationalism. We organise this Exchange around the following questions: (1) What is nationalism? (2) How can we measure nationalism? (3) What are the consequences of nationalism? (4) What are new research frontiers?
Comparisons of the Rome III and Rome IV criteria for diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome in Indian and Bangladeshi communities and internal shifts in the diagnostic categories of bowel disorders of gut–brain interactions
Authors: Ghoshal Uday C. , Rahman M. Masudur , Pratap Nitesh , Misra Asha , Sarker Shafiqul Alam , Hasan Mahmud , Bangdiwala Shrikant I. , Palsson Olafur S. , Sperber Ami D.
Published: April 2023

Background

Although the Rome IV criteria are the most recent criteria to diagnose irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), their sensitivity has been shown to be low in Chinese and Western populations. There are scanty data comparing the Rome III and Rome IV criteria in diagnosis of IBS in the Indian and Bangladeshi populations where abdominal pain, an essential component of diagnosis of IBS by the Rome IV criteria, is less in frequency and of lower severity.

Methods

We analyzed the Indian and Bangladeshi data from the Rome Global Epidemiology Study to compare diagnostic sensitivity of the Rome III and Rome IV criteria for IBS, internal shifts in diagnostic categories of disorders of gut–brain interaction (DGBI), the severity of IBS diagnosed by the Rome III and Rome IV criteria, and consultation patterns in these populations.

Key Results

The Rome IV criteria were less sensitive than the Rome III criteria to diagnose IBS in these populations, and the subjects with Rome III IBS shifted internally to other DGBI when the Rome IV criteria were applied. Moreover, Rome IV IBS subjects had greater symptom severity than the Rome III IBS. A third of people fulfilling diagnostic criteria for IBS consulted doctors, and those diagnosed using Rome IV criteria, those with higher anxiety and depression symptom score, lower global physical health score, and greater IBS symptom severity score had greater correlation coefficients with doctors' consultation.

Conclusions and Inferences

The Rome IV diagnostic criteria for IBS are less sensitive than the Rome III criteria in Indian and Bangladesh communities. Application of the Rome IV criteria to people who meet the Rome III IBS criteria selects a subgroup of people with greater severity of symptoms, and hence, Rome IV IBS is more strongly associated with physician consultation. These findings may have important bearing in future iterations of the Rome criteria for a broader global applicability.
Complex wound response mechanisms and phellogen evolution – insights from Early Devonian euphyllophytes
Authors: Lalica Madison A. K. , Tomescu Alexandru M. F.
Published: April 2023

We analyze the oldest fossil occurrences of wound‐response periderm to characterize the development of wound responses in early tracheophytes. The origin of periderm production by a cambium (phellogen), an innovation with key roles in protection of inner plant tissues, is poorly explored; understanding periderm development in early tracheophytes can illuminate key aspects of this process.

Anatomy of wound‐response tissues is characterized in serial sections in a new Early Devonian (Emsian; c. 400 Ma) euphyllophyte from Quebec (Canada) – Nebuloxyla mikmaqiana sp. nov. – and compared to previously described euphyllophyte periderm from the same fossil locality to reconstruct periderm development.

Characterizing development in these oldest periderm occurrences allows us to propose a model for the development of wound‐response periderm in early tracheophytes: by phellogen activity that is poorly coordinated laterally but bifacial, producing secondary tissues initially outwardly and subsequently inwardly.

The earliest occurrences of wound periderm pre‐date the oldest known periderm produced systemically as a regular ontogenetic stage (canonical periderm), suggesting that periderm evolved initially as a wound‐response mechanism. We hypothesize that canonical periderm evolved by exaptation of this wound sealing mechanism, whose deployment was triggered by tangential tensional stresses induced in the superficial tissues by vascular cambial growth from within.
Top managers in public organizations: A systematic literature review and future research directions
Authors: Huang Ting , Villadsen Anders Ryom
Published: April 2023

Despite increasing attention, top management research has been heavily dominated by a focus on private companies with much less emphasis on the top managers in public organizations. We present a systematic literature review of 212 studies focused on public sector top managers published between 2005 and 2020. First, the paper provides descriptive results suggesting that the empirical focus on top managers in the public sector is increasing, though still limited compared to research on upper echelons in private firms. Second, we develop an empirically based “systems” model illustrating the role and function of top managers in public organizations. We use the model to show that the components of top management are interdependent, adaptive, and embedded in complex relationships in the system, and to identify avenues for future research.
Goal achievement in municipal strategic planning: The role of executives' background and political context
Authors: Bello‐Gomez Ricardo A. , Avellaneda Claudia N.
Published: April 2023

Strategic planning has been increasingly used by local governments worldwide to boost performance. While this can be seen as a technical and political process, the relationship between managerial qualifications, political context and achievement of strategic goals in local governments has been scarcely studied. This study explores these relationships using data from 137 Colombian municipalities at the middle and end of the 2016–2019 mayoral term. Findings suggest that midterm strategic goal achievement is associated with mayoral experience, particularly in the national government where the tradition of strategic planning is better established, and this relationship increases with higher levels of municipal council support. Certain traits of the chief planning officer, appointed by the mayor, also correlate positively with midterm goal achievement. End‐term goal achievement is mainly associated with midterm paths. This research contributes to the performance management literature by highlighting the political‐managerial interplay in strategic goal achievement.
The impact of social impact bond financing
Authors: Hevenstone Debra , Fraser Alec , Hobi Lukas , Przepiorka Wojtek , Geuke Gemma G. M.
Published: April 2023

Social impact bonds (SIBs), also known as Pay for Success, are an innovation in Payment by Results contracting. Investors finance programs and are repaid based on the “SIB effect,” which includes changes in outcomes attributable to financing. We generate a quantitative estimate of this part of the SIB effect for two active labor market programs in the Netherlands and Switzerland. Comparing program impacts within providers using SIB and non‐SIB contracts suggests financing has positive impacts on public benefit receipt, employment, and income. Qualitative research suggests this is because SIB contracts increased pressure for all involved parties, leading to the institutionalization of selection and greater resources for SIB‐financed services. Contracts with high pressure, like SIBs, may compromise both performance requirements and the potential to measure performance. We examine the implications of these findings in relation to agency and stewardship theories and highlight the significance of SIBs as multilateral as opposed to bilateral contracts.