bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Expert Participation to Evaluate the Accuracy of Hand‐Drawn Water‐Table Maps
Authors: Marshall Sarah Kathleen , Peeters Luk J. M. , Batelaan Okke , Noorduijn Saskia , Velterop Tanah
Published: July 2024

Water‐table maps are fundamental to hydrogeological studies and a manual, hand‐drawn method is still commonly used to produce them. Despite this, the accuracy and variability of such maps have received little attention in international literature. In a unique experiment, 63 groundwater professionals drew water‐table equipotential contours based on the same dataset of point measurements and were asked to infer flow directions and predict groundwater elevations at predefined locations. The root mean squared error (RMSE) for the average map calibration data was 10.5 m, which is accuracy comparable to numerical groundwater models. This study confirmed that to produce hand‐drawn water‐table maps, practitioners seek to not only fit the spatial data, but also to conform to their own cognitive model of hydrogeological concepts and processes. The calibration accuracy increased with experience; from a RMSE of 13.3 m for practitioners with 0–3 years of experience to a RMSE of 9.2 m for those with four or more years. Despite considerable variability in the style of the hand‐drawn water‐table maps, the maps were consistent in their representation of the dominant regional groundwater flow directions. There was less consensus, however, in predicting the direction of surface water‐groundwater interaction for a stream reach. Hand‐drawn water‐table mapping remains useful and valid, especially as a starting point for hydrogeological conceptualization, yet further work is required to resolve issues around transparency, repeatability, and reproducibility.
Psychosocial and sexual health among men with and without HIV who have sex with men: A cross‐sectional nationwide study in Denmark
Authors: Scofield Ditte , Frisch Morten , Andersson Mikael , Storgaard Merete , Pedersen Gitte , Johansen Isik S. , Katzenstein Terese L. , Graugaard Christian , Omland Lars H. , Weis Nina , Moseholm Ellen
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The HIV/AIDS epidemic has disproportionately affected men who have sex with men (MSM) since its onset. Despite important medical advancements in treatment, the enduring effects of living with HIV continue to adversely impact the health and well‐being of this population. This cross‐sectional nationwide study examined psychosocial and sexual health among MSM in Denmark, comparing those living with and without HIV.

Methods

Data from MSM living with HIV were collected from the SHARE study, a Danish nationwide survey that investigated psychosocial, sexual and reproductive health among people with HIV, and compared with data from MSM without HIV, retrieved from the nationally representative cohort study, Project SEXUS. Associations between HIV status and psychosocial and sexual health outcomes were examined using logistic regression models while controlling for potentially confounding variables.

Results

Among 369 MSM with HIV and 1002 MSM without HIV, logistic regression analyses revealed that living with HIV was significantly associated with having current symptoms of anxiety and depression and greater dissatisfaction with one's body. Additionally, MSM with HIV significantly more often than MSM without HIV reported low sexual desire, sexual inactivity, a lack of sexual needs in the last year and erectile dysfunction. Having received payment for sex was more frequently reported by MSM with HIV, as was sexualised drug use, including chemsex drugs.

Conclusion

Compared with MSM without HIV, MSM with HIV in Denmark report a higher burden of mental health and sex life challenges.
Effects of metal ion removal from Antarctic krill oil on its qualities and stabilities of colour and oxidation
Authors: Zhang Hua‐Wen , Zeng Xiang‐Bo , Xu Shi‐Jing , Yin Fa‐Wen , Liu Hui‐Lin , Qin Lei , Zhou Da‐Yong
Published: July 2024

In order to better preserve phospholipids (PLs)‐type polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and astaxanthin (ASTA), Antarctic krill oil (AKO) undergoes only limited refining steps, which results in the presence of metal ions. This study aims to establish a metal ion removal method for AKO by using adsorbents and investigate the effects of the metal ion removal process on nutritional composition, oxidation state and colour of AKO, as well as the effects of metal oil removal of AKO on its nutrition composition, oxidation stability and colour stability upon accelerated storage. Among the three types of adsorbents including silica gel, diatomaceous earth, and attapulgite soil, the last one showed the best comprehensive removal effects. After optimising the removal conditions, attapulgite soil achieved the removal rates of 92.5%, 90.0%, and 86.4%, respectively, for iron ions, magnesium ions and calcium ions. Compared to the fresh AKO, the processed AKO had no significant differences in peroxide value (POV), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and total oxidation value (TOTOX), as well as PUFA content and lipid class composition, indicating that the metal ion removal process would not cause significant lipid oxidation. Moreover, the processed AKO looks brighter and more transparent, and had higher detection values in L*, a*, and b* but lower UV‐vis absorption at 295 nm (A295) and 420 nm (A420). This indicated that the metal ion removal process improved the colour quality. After accelerated storage at 60 °C for 8 days, the processed AKO sample had significantly lower values in POV, TBARS, and TOTOX, but significant higher PUFA content than the fresh AKO group. Moreover, the processed AKO sample had the higher values of L*, a*, and b*, as well as A470 and A495, but the lower values of A295 and A420. The above results indicate that the removal of metal ions significantly improved the stabilities of oxidation and colour of AKO.
Effect of water cooling treatment on structure and cooking characteristics of frozen extruded whole buckwheat noodles
Authors: Zhang Tiannu , Wu Chaosheng , Fu Meixia , Wang Zhenjiong , Cheng Weiwei , Gao Chengcheng , Feng Xiao , Tang Xiaozhi
Published: July 2024

The effect of 4 °C water cooling treatment after extrusion for different time (0 s, 30 s, 1 min, 3 min, and 5 min) on the structure and cooking characteristics of frozen extruded whole buckwheat noodles were investigated. The cooking time and cooking loss of frozen extruded whole buckwheat noodles significantly decreased after water cooling, and the broken rate was kept constant at 0%, indicating that the quality of frozen noodles was significantly improved. When the time for water cooling was 30 s, the noodles had the lowest cooking loss of 4.07% and the highest hardness and springiness of 3993.19 g and 0.96, respectively. X‐ray diffraction results showed that water cooling treatment increased the crystallinity of starch, and the amylose underwent short‐term ageing. It was also observed from a scanning electron microscope that the gel network structure of the noodles treated with 30 s water cooling was more complete and uniform. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis showed that the water cooling treatment significantly increased the freezable water content. Meanwhile, low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance indicated that the water mobility in the noodles was weakened. The above results showed that 4 °C water cooling treatment for 30 s was beneficial to the formation of starch gel structure and improved the quality of frozen noodles. This study provides a new approach to improve the quality of extruded whole buckwheat noodles.
Emergence of Artificial Intelligence Art Therapies (AIATs) in Mental Health Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: Luo Xuexing , Zhang Aijia , Li Yu , Zhang Zheyu , Ying Fangtian , Lin Runqing , Yang Qianxu , Wang Jue , Huang Guanghui
Published: July 2024

The application of artificial intelligence art therapies (AIATs) in mental health care represents an innovative merger between digital technology and the therapeutic potential of creative arts. This systematic review aimed to assess the effectiveness and ethical considerations of AIATs, incorporating robots, AI painting and AI Chatbots to augment traditional art therapies. Aligning with the Preferred Reporting Items for systematic reviews (PRISMA) guidelines, we meticulously searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and CNKI, resulting in 15 selected articles for detailed analysis. To ensure methodological quality, we applied the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) criteria for quality assessment and extracted data using the PICO(S) format, specifically targeting randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Our findings suggest that AIATs can profoundly enhance the therapeutic experience by providing new creative outlets and reinforcing existing methods, despite possible drawbacks and ethical challenges. This examination underscores AIATs' potential to enrich mental health therapies, emphasising the critical importance of ethical considerations and the responsible application of AI as the field evolves. With a focus on expanding treatment efficacy and patient expressiveness, the promise of AIATs in mental health care necessitates a careful balance between innovation and ethical responsibility.

Trial Registration: PROSPERO: CRD42024504472
Factors affecting patient retention to hypertension treatment in a North Indian State: A mixed‐method study
Authors: Jaswal Nidhi , Goel Sonu , Upadhyay Kritika , Pathni Anupam Khungar , Bera Om Prakash , Shah Vandana
Published: July 2024

Hypertension is a global health challenge, especially in low‐to‐middle‐income countries, where awareness and control are suboptimal. Despite available treatments, poor medication adherence hampers blood pressure control, leading to adverse outcomes and increased costs. In response, the GOI has initiated national action plans to address noncommunicable diseases, including hypertension. The study aimed to analyze patient retention rates in hypertension treatment across healthcare levels and understand providers' and patients' perspectives on control factors. Using a mixed‐method concurrent design in a North Indian district, retrospective data collection covered hypertensive patients registered from January 2020 to July 2020, followed for a year (August 2020–July 2021). Quantitative data included socio‐demographic characteristics and patient follow‐up rates. Qualitative data comprised focus group discussions (FGD) and in‐depth interviews (IDI) with healthcare providers (HCPs) and patients. Findings identified challenges in patient retention and medication adherence, notably among females and at higher‐level healthcare facilities, leading to substantial loss of follow‐up. Only 63% of hypertensive outpatients maintained controlled blood pressure in the past year. Male patients exhibited more consistent attendance than females. Despite sufficient HCP knowledge, patient retention was better at Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs) levels, while blood pressure control was poorer at higher facilities. Barriers such as medication side effects, pill burden, and limited healthcare access hindered hypertension control, highlighting the need for improved primary care services, including extended clinic hours and diagnostic facilities. Improving hypertension control requires addressing medication adherence and healthcare access barriers. Strengthening primary care services and implementing patient‐centered interventions are crucial steps.
Unveiling the oncogenic role of LZTS1 in colorectal cancer
Authors: Xu Yuanchun , Pepe Daniele , Yao Shu , Boudhan Loubna , Verbandt Sara , Pu Ting , Creemers John W. M. , Liu Maoxuan , Tejpar Sabine , He Zongsheng , Zhu Jingjing , Wang Yaling
Published: July 2024

Although leucine zipper tumour suppressor 1 (LZTS1) has been considered a potential tumour suppressor, accumulating evidence suggests that LZTS1 is highly expressed in many cancer types. To unravel the exact role of LZTS1 in colorectal carcinogenesis, we performed the bioinformatic analysis of LZTS1, including expression differences, correlations between expression levels and survival, methylation status of LZTS1 promoter and related cellular pathways based on TCGA dataset, GEO databases and our own CRC patient cohort. Furthermore, we confirmed the oncogenic function of LZTS1 in human mammalian cells by employing a series of assays including tissue microarray, immunoblotting, cell proliferation and migration assay. We found that the expression of LZTS1 is higher in tumour samples compared to paired normal tissue in CRC cancer and its different clinical subtypes, which is, at least in part, due to the low methylation status of LZTS1 promoter in CRC tumour samples. Functional analysis identified the close relationship between high expression of LZTS1 and PI3K‐AKT pathway and the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Consistently, we found that the expression of LZTS1 positively correlated with the expression PIK3CD, N‐cadherin in CRC tumour samples, while the expression of LZTS1 negatively correlated with the expression of E‐cadherin and PTEN in CRC tumour samples. Experimental data further confirmed that overexpression of LZTS1 upregulated activity of AKT and promoted EMT process. Furthermore, depletion of LZTS1 repressed the proliferation and migration rate of CRC cells. Thus, this study indicates that LZTS1 plays an oncogenic role in colorectal carcinogenesis.
Prognostic heterogeneity of Ki67 in non‐small cell lung cancer: A comprehensive reappraisal on immunohistochemistry and transcriptional data
Authors: Yang Yujing , Shao Xinye , Li Zhi , Zhang Lingyun , Yang Bowen , Jin Bo , Hu Xuejun , Qu Xiujuan , Che Xiaofang , Liu Yunpeng
Published: July 2024

In the present study, the debatable prognostic value of Ki67 in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) was attributed to the heterogeneity between lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous carcinoma (LUSC). Based on meta‐analyses of 29 studies, a retrospective immunohistochemical cohort of 1479 patients from our center, eight transcriptional datasets and a single‐cell datasets with 40 patients, we found that high Ki67 expression suggests a poor outcome in LUAD, but conversely, low Ki67 expression indicates worse prognosis in LUSC. Furthermore, low proliferation in LUSC is associated with higher metastatic capacity, which is related to the stronger epithelial‐mesenchymal transition potential, immunosuppressive microenvironment and angiogenesis. Finally, nomogram model incorporating clinical risk factors and Ki67 expression outperformed the basic clinical model for the accurate prognostic prediction of LUSC. With the largest prognostic assessment of Ki67 from protein to mRNA level, our study highlights that Ki67 also has an important prognostic value in NSCLC, but separate evaluation of LUAD and LUSC is necessary to provide more valuable information for clinical decision‐making in NSCLC.
Differences in nutritional requirements of adult codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.), from field and laboratory populations
Authors: Mátray Silvia , Herz Annette
Published: July 2024

The codling moth Cydia pomonella (Linnaeus) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is one of the most important pests in apple production. The provision of sugar resources improved adult fitness of this species in laboratory studies and could also be enhanced in the field, for example, by naturally occurring carbohydrate sources in the orchard environment. In addition, the effects of sugar resources on field populations may differ from those of laboratory strains due to altered nutritional requirements. The survival of moths from overwintered field populations was compared with that of a non‐diapausing laboratory strain in feeding experiments with water, two sugar solutions or buckwheat flowers. The effect of these diets was similar for all populations, yet moths from one field‐collected strain lived shorter than those reared in the laboratory. In general, males lived about 3–5 days longer than females. The provision of glucose resulted in the highest survival of both sexes in all populations (24 days). Buckwheat nectar tended to slightly prolong the moths' lifespan compared to the water control (+3 days). Female fecundity was highly variable and was affected by adult diet. Similar to the results obtained under laboratory conditions, the provision of glucose and buckwheat nectar prolonged adult survival in associated field exposure experiments. In general, the nutritional requirements of adult codling moths did not vary according to their origin, even when reared continuously in the laboratory for many generations.
Zaprionus tuberculatus (Diptera, Drosophilidae): A generalist species that deserves attention
Authors: Viana José Pedro Cavalcante , Ribeiro Laís Barbosa , Cavalcanti Fábio André Gomes Silva , Tidon Rosana
Published: July 2024

The Drosophilid family comprises over 4000 species, with several species posing potential threats to agriculture, as identified by the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation (EPPO). Among these species, Drosophila suzukii, Zaprionus tuberculatus and Z. indianus have received attention due to their geographic expansion and potential risks to crops. This research aims to consolidate global data on Z. tuberculatus hosts, with a specific focus on this species' presence in Brazil's Federal District, its first reported location in the Americas. Reviewing existing literature and conducting fieldwork, we identified 61 plant species from 25 botanical families as potential hosts for Z. tuberculatus worldwide, from which 23 species are new hosts. It was noted that Z. tuberculatus had a high density on certain fruits, raising concerns about its potential as a pest. The presence of Z. tuberculatus alongside other pest species, such as Z. indianus and Drosophila suzukii, highlights the complexity of invasive species' interactions and their ecological impacts. These findings emphasize the need for standardized methodologies to evaluate invasive drosophilids' ecological and economic implications, enabling informed management strategies to mitigate their adverse effects on agriculture and ecosystems.
Pain sensitisation in patients with sickle cell disease: A preliminary study
Authors: Garcia‐Hernandez Ailyn , de la Coba Pablo , Martinez‐Triana Raúl J. , Reyes del Paso Gustavo A.
Published: July 2024

Background

Responses to experimental pain have suggested central and peripheral sensitisation in adult patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Recent studies have proposed an algometry‐derived dynamic measure of pain sensitisation, slowly repeated evoked pain (SREP), which is useful in the discrimination of painful conditions related to central sensitisation. Pain and fatigue are two symptoms that affect the general functioning of patients with SCD most significantly, however, research about experimental dynamic pain measures and their relation to the main symptoms of SCD (pain and fatigue) is still scarce.

Objective

This preliminary study aimed to test the utility of the SREP protocol for detecting pain sensitisation in patients with SCD, and to evaluate the associations of pain sensitisation, pain threshold, and pain tolerance with the main clinical symptoms of SCD, pain and fatigue.

Methods

Twenty‐two female outpatients with SCD and 20 healthy women participated. Pain threshold, pain tolerance, and pain sensitisation were assessed by algometry in the fingernail. Clinical pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression and pain catastrophizing were evaluated.

Results

No group differences were found in pain threshold and tolerance. However, using the SREP protocol, pain sensitisation was greater in patients than in healthy participants, even after controlling for psychological variables and body mass index. Pain threshold and tolerance were inversely associated with fatigue levels in the SCD group, with pain tolerance being the main predictor.

Conclusions

Pain threshold and tolerance did not discriminate between patients and healthy individuals, but were useful for predicting fatigue severity in SCD. The SREP protocol provides a useful dynamic measure of pain for the discrimination and detection of enhanced pain sensitisation in patients with SCD, which could contribute to more personalised pain evaluations and treatment for these patients.
Comparative life‐history strategies in three Lebiasinidae (Characiformes) in a Rio Negro tributary, Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Althoff Bruno B. , Lazzarotto Henrique , Soares Bruno E. , Caramaschi Érica P.
Published: July 2024

Reproductive traits co‐evolve and form successful life‐history strategies adapted to the biology and environment of a particular taxon, maximizing offspring and species survival chances, therefore studies investigating differences in adaptive traits across different environments can enhance our understanding of the natural selection process and evolution. Herein, we address whether the reproductive strategies of phylogenetically closely related fishes are influenced by habitat predictability, using three species of the Lebiasinidae family as models. The predominance of larger and mature individuals during the flood season, with high waters characterized by smaller immature individuals, suggests a seasonal reproductive strategy for Nannostomus trifasciatus. Copella callolepis, which inhabits both habitats, also showed a single reproductive peak. However, compared to N. trifasciatus, this species displayed late spawning, restricted to the flood season, as indicated by the higher abundance of larger and mature individuals during this period and the presence of smaller (juveniles) and spawned individuals in the following season. The reproductive tactics observed in N. marginatus differed significantly from the single reproductive peak of the other species, as two reproductive peaks were observed: one during the flood season and another during the low water season. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that the environment strongly influences reproductive strategies for lebiasinids. N. marginatus, restricted to small water bodies, exhibited an opportunistic reproductive strategy, whereas the species inhabiting main rivers, N. trifasciatus and C. callolepis, exhibited a more seasonal strategy.
The reciprocal relationship between amyloid precursor protein and mitochondrial function
Authors: Strope Taylor A. , Wilkins Heather M.
Published: July 2024

Amyloid precursor protein (APP), secretase enzymes, and amyloid beta (Aβ) have been extensively studied in the context of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Despite this, the function of these proteins and their metabolism is not understood. APP, secretase enzymes, and APP processing products (Aβ and C‐terminal fragments) localize to endosomes, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and mitochondrial/ER contact sites. Studies implicate significant relationships between APP, secretase enzyme function, APP metabolism, and mitochondrial function. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key pathological hallmark of AD and is intricately linked to proteostasis. Here, we review studies examining potential functions of APP, secretase enzymes, and APP metabolites in the context of mitochondrial function and bioenergetics. We discuss implications and limitations of studies and highlight knowledge gaps that remain in the field.

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Treatment approaches, outcomes and prognostic indicators in patients with tinnitus and temporomandibular disorders evaluated with DC/TMD: A systematic review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Fabrizia d’ Apuzzo , Giuseppe Minervini , Martina Cerbone , Patricia Rotolo Rossana , Vincenzo Grassia , Ludovica Nucci
Published: July 2024

Objective

This systematic review summarised the results reported in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) aimed at evaluating the different treatment approaches in patients with tinnitus associated with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) evaluated with the diagnostic criteria of temporomandibular disorders (DC/TMD), and the possible predictive factors influencing treatment outcomes.

Methods

The electronic databases Medline, Web of Science, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACs) were searched systematically up to March 2023. Only RCTs with full texts were included in this study. The eligibility of the RCTs selected was based on the PICO model (participants, intervention, comparators, outcomes), and subjects of any age, sex or ethnicity, were included when showing both tinnitus and TMD, diagnosed through DC/TMD criteria.

Results

From a total of 635 articles, only five RCTs were included and the data from a total of 329 participants were examined. Two RCTs focused on the efficacy of the multidisciplinary approach among people with tinnitus who have TMD; two RCTs examined prognostic indicators predicting a positive outcome after multidisciplinary orofacial treatment; one RCT analysed low‐level laser therapy's effectiveness with Nd:YAG laser.

Conclusion

A multidisciplinary non‐invasive approach is the most efficacious treatment for tinnitus in patients diagnosed with TMD. Baseline tinnitus severity, gender, quality of life, age, and tinnitus duration were considered predictive factors of clinical outcomes in patients diagnosed with DMTs and referring tinnitus.
Treatment options used in the management of people with temporomandibular disorders by Australian dentists and physiotherapists
Authors: Haddad Danielle , Millican Emma , Maxwell Lyndal , Wirianski Alexander
Published: July 2024

Background

Studies documenting the treatments used by dentists in the management of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) have been undertaken in some countries; however, no such research has been conducted in Australia. No similar studies have been documented for physiotherapists.

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine the treatment options and referral patterns used by Australian dentists and physiotherapists in managing people with TMDs.

Methods

Prospective nationwide online questionnaires targeting Australian dentists and physiotherapists were created for Australian dentists and physiotherapists.

Results

Seventy‐eight respondents (27 dentists; 51 physiotherapists) completed all questions in the questionnaires. Sixty respondents reported actively treating people with TMDs. The treatment options used most frequently by dentists included advice and education, oral appliances, physical agents such as moist heat and medications. The treatment options most frequently used by physiotherapists included manual therapy, exercises, electrophysical agents and advice and education. Referrals were most frequently made to dentists and physiotherapists with experience and/or expertise in managing people with TMDs and to general dentists.

Conclusions

Commonly used treatment options were mostly conservative, reversible and evidence‐based. More responses are required to draw conclusions representative of Australian dentists and physiotherapists in the management of people with TMDs.
Effectiveness of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of temporomandibular joint disorders: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zaman Mahmud Uz , Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Alqhtani Nasser Raqe , Alqahtani Mana , Alsaadi Mohammed J. , Ronsivalle Vincenzo , Cicciù Marco , Minervini Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

Background

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) pose diagnostic challenges, and selecting appropriate imaging modalities is crucial for accurate assessment. This study aimed to compare the diagnostic accuracy and efficacy of ultrasonography (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in identifying TMDs.

Methods

A comprehensive meta‐analysis was conducted, including studies that compared US and MRI for TMJ disorder assessments. Fixed‐effects models were utilized to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) and relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity was assessed using the chi‐squared test and I2 statistic. Newcastle–Ottawa scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies included.

Results

Six studies were included, involving a total of 281 participants. The meta‐analysis demonstrated that MRI was statistically somewhat better than US in identifying TMJ disorders. The summary OR was 0.64 (95% CI: 0.46–0.90), and the summary RR was 0.80 (95% CI: 0.68–0.95). Heterogeneity among the studies was low (χ2 = 2.73, df = 5, p = .74; I2 = 0%). Demographic variables revealed variations in sample size, gender ratio and mean age across the studies.

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis provides evidence that MRI may be more effective than US in diagnosing TMDs. However, the study is limited by the small number of included studies and variations in demographic variables and study designs. Future research with larger samples and standardised protocols is essential to confirm and strengthen these findings. Understanding the diagnostic accuracy of MRI and US for TMJ disorders will aid clinicians in making informed decisions for effective TMJ disorder assessments and patient management.
Mortality risk factors in children with influenza‐associated encephalopathy admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit between 2009 and 2021
Authors: Bi Jiajia , Wu Xiaoxin , Deng Jikui
Published: July 2024

Aim

The purpose of this study was to determine the risk factors for death in children with influenza‐associated encephalopathy (IAE) in the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

Methods

Forty‐six paediatric patients with IAE admitted to the PICU at shenzhen Children's Hospital between December 2009 and December 2021 were evaluated. Their clinical characteristics were retrospectively analysed.

Results

A total of 46 patients were diagnosed with influenza A virus infection and encephalopathy. The cases were concentrated in children <5 years of age (27/46, 58.7%). Twenty‐nine patients (63.0%) survived and 17 patients (37.0%) died, of which 70.6% (12/17) of the patients died within 1 week of hospitalisation. Thirty‐two patients (69.6%) developed neurological symptoms within 1–2 days of fever onset. Common symptoms included fever (45/46, 97.8%), loss of consciousness (39/46, 84.8%), seizures (31/46, 67.4%), cough (19/46, 41.3%), and vomiting (16/46, 34.8%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that vomiting (odds ratio [OR], 11.005), loss of consciousness (AVPU score: P; OR, 15.871), lymphopenia (OR, 8.964), alanine aminotransferase (>80 IU/L; OR, 32.060) and serum sodium concentration (>145 mmol/L or <135 mmol/L; OR, 16.264) were related to mortality.

Conclusions

The mortality in this study population was 37.0%. Children with IAE who have corresponding clinical manifestations and abnormal examination results in PICU should be warned of the high mortality rate.
Economic policy uncertainty and local government debt: Evidence from China
Authors: Gao Han , Lan Minming , Li Jie , Zhou Tianhang
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates the effects of economic policy uncertainty on local government debt issuance in China and identifies a transmission channel through the cost of capital. Our findings demonstrate that economic policy uncertainty raises the cost of external financing for local governments, leading to decreased levels of debt issuance. Specifically, a 1% increase in uncertainty related to economic policy variations leads to a reduction in government debt issuance of 0.0478%. In addition, our analysis reveals that local governments located in regions experiencing lower fiscal pressure, lower economic catch‐up pressure, and higher sensitivity to uncertainty are more responsive to economic policy uncertainty changes.
A female‐biased gene expression signature of dominance in cooperatively breeding meerkats
Authors: Campbell C. Ryan , Manser Marta , Shiratori Mari , Williams Kelly , Barreiro Luis , Clutton‐Brock Tim , Tung Jenny
Published: July 2024

Dominance is a primary determinant of social dynamics and resource access in social animals. Recent studies show that dominance is also reflected in the gene regulatory profiles of peripheral immune cells. However, the strength and direction of this relationship differs across the species and sex combinations investigated, potentially due to variation in the predictors and energetic consequences of dominance status. Here, we investigated the association between social status and gene expression in the blood of wild meerkats (Suricata suricatta; n = 113 individuals), including in response to lipopolysaccharide, Gardiquimod (an agonist of TLR7, which detects single‐stranded RNA in vivo) and glucocorticoid stimulation. Meerkats are cooperatively breeding social carnivores in which breeding females physically outcompete other females to suppress reproduction, resulting in high reproductive skew. They therefore present an opportunity to disentangle the effects of social dominance from those of sex per se. We identify a sex‐specific signature of dominance, including 1045 differentially expressed genes in females but none in males. Dominant females exhibit elevated activity in innate immune pathways and a larger fold‐change response to LPS challenge. Based on these results and a preliminary comparison to other mammals, we speculate that the gene regulatory signature of social status in the immune system depends on the determinants and energetic costs of social dominance, such that it is most pronounced in hierarchies where physical competition is important and reproductive skew is large. Such a pattern has the potential to mediate life history trade‐offs between investment in reproduction versus somatic maintenance.
Low dose glucocorticoids, mycophenolate mofetil and hydroxychloroquine in IgA nephropathy, an update of current clinical trials
Authors: Chen Pei , Lv Jicheng
Published: July 2024

This mini‐review explores glucocorticoids, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in IgA nephropathy (IgAN). It discusses conflicting findings from pivotal trials like TESTING and STOP‐IgAN regarding glucocorticoid efficacy, emphasizing reduced‐dose protocols as potentially safer options. MMF's effectiveness varies among populations, demonstrating promise in Chinese cohorts but yielding inconclusive results elsewhere. HCQ shows potential in reducing proteinuria, with ongoing trials investigating its long‐term benefits.
Ectopic enhancer–enhancer interactions as causal forces driving RNA‐directed DNA methylation in gene regulatory regions
Authors: Yang Yazhou , Liu Jia , Singer Stacy D. , Yan Guohua , Bennet Dennis R. , Liu Yue , Hily Jean‐Michel , Xu Weirong , Yang Yingzhen , Wang Xiping , Zhong Gan‐Yuan , Liu Zhongchi , Charles An Yong‐Qiang , Liu Huawei , Liu Zongrang
Published: July 2024

Cis‐regulatory elements (CREs) are integral to the spatiotemporal and quantitative expression dynamics of target genes, thus directly influencing phenotypic variation and evolution. However, many of these CREs become highly susceptible to transcriptional silencing when in a transgenic state, particularly when organised as tandem repeats. We investigated the mechanism of this phenomenon and found that three of the six selected flower‐specific CREs were prone to transcriptional silencing when in a transgenic context. We determined that this silencing was caused by the ectopic expression of non‐coding RNAs (ncRNAs), which were processed into 24‐nt small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that drove RNA‐directed DNA methylation (RdDM). Detailed analyses revealed that aberrant ncRNA transcription within the AGAMOUS enhancer (AGe) in a transgenic context was significantly enhanced by an adjacent CaMV35S enhancer (35Se). This particular enhancer is known to mis‐activate the regulatory activities of various CREs, including the AGe. Furthermore, an insertion of 35Se approximately 3.5 kb upstream of the AGe in its genomic locus also resulted in the ectopic induction of ncRNA/siRNA production and de novo methylation specifically in the AGe, but not other regions, as well as the production of mutant flowers. This confirmed that interactions between the 35Se and AGe can induce RdDM activity in both genomic and transgenic states. These findings highlight a novel epigenetic role for CRE–CRE interactions in plants, shedding light on the underlying forces driving hypermethylation in transgenes, duplicate genes/enhancers, and repetitive transposons, in which interactions between CREs are inevitable.
Polyamines: pleiotropic molecules regulating plant development and enhancing crop yield and quality
Authors: Yang Haishan , Fang Yinyin , Liang Zhiman , Qin Tian , Liu Ji‐Hong , Liu Taibo
Published: July 2024

Polyamines (PAs) are pleiotropic bioorganic molecules. Cellular PA contents are determined by a balance between PA synthesis and degradation. PAs have been extensively demonstrated to play vital roles in the modulation of plant developmental processes and adaptation to various environmental stresses. In this review, the latest advances on the diverse roles of PAs in a range of developmental processes, such as morphogenesis, organogenesis, growth and development, and fruit ripening, are summarized and discussed. Besides, the crosstalk between PAs and phytohormones or other signalling molecules, including H2O2 and NO, involved in these processes is dwelled on. In addition, the attempts made to improve the yield and quality of grain and vegetable crops through altering the PA catabolism are enumerated. Finally, several other vital questions that remain unanswered are proposed and discussed. These include the mechanisms underlying the cooperative regulation of developmental processes by PAs and their interplaying partners like phytohormones, H2O2 and NO; PA transport for maintaining homeostasis; and utilization of PA anabolism/catabolism for generating high‐yield and good‐quality crops. This review aims to gain new insights into the pleiotropic role of PAs in the modulation of plant growth and development, which provides an alternative approach for manipulating and engineering valuable crop varieties that can be used in the future.
Examining heterogeneity in the affect‐regulating function of suicidal ideation: Person‐specific analyses in male inpatients with depression
Authors: Hallensleben Nina , Kraiss Jannis , Glaesmer Heide , Forkmann Thomas , Spangenberg Lena
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Men have an increased risk to die by suicide compared to women but are underrepresented in suicide research. To improve individual risk prediction for suicide‐related thoughts and behaviors (STBs), risk factors are increasingly being studied at an individual level. The possible affect‐regulatory function of suicidal ideation has hardly been investigated ideographically and has not yet been tested in a male sample.

Methods

We investigated the bidirectional associations between suicidal ideation and negative and positive affect in a sample of n = 21 male inpatients with unipolar depression and a history of suicidal ideation both at the group level and at the individual level. Participants underwent an intensive ecological momentary assessment for 6 days with 10 data points per day.

Results

We found no evidence for an affect‐regulatory function of suicidal ideation at the group level, neither for effects of affect on subsequent suicidal ideation (antecedent affect‐regulatory hypothesis) nor for effects of suicidal ideation on subsequent affect (consequence affect‐regulatory hypothesis). Person‐specific analyses revealed substantial variability in strength and direction of the considered associations, especially for the associations representing the antecedent hypothesis.

Conclusion

The demonstrated between‐person heterogeneity points to the necessity to individualize the investigation of risk factors to enhance prediction and prevention of STBs.
Hidradenitis suppurativa and cardiovascular diseases: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhou Ping , Jiang Xin , Wang Dan
Published: July 2024

Background

Prior investigation has indicated a link between Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), yet the causal relationship (CR) between these conditions remains unresolved.

Methods

This investigation utilized bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to determine the CR between HS and CVDs. Genetic instruments for both conditions were sourced from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS). The GWAS summary data for CVD comprised coronary artery disease (CAD), myocardial infarction (MI), coronary atherosclerosis (CA), ischemic stroke (IS), and chronic heart failure (CHF). Four new approaches were added to the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method for the main analysis: weighted median, weighted MR‐Egger, simple mode, and weighted mode. The validity of the causal conclusions was verified by sensitivity tests that included leave‐one‐out analysis, heterogeneity, and pleiotropy.

Results

HS and CAD (OR = 1.024; 95%CI: 1.002–1.046, P = 0.033), MI (OR = 1.001; 95%CI: 1.000–1.002, P = 0.033), and CA (OR = 1.001; 95%CI: 1.000–1.002, P = 0.022) were identified to have a positive CR, according to the IVW analysis. Conversely, no significant association was identified between HS and either IS or CHF. Furthermore, the bidirectional analysis indicated no reverse causation between these diseases.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest a potential CR between HS and CAD, MI, and CA. Additional research is warranted to elucidate the biological mechanisms underlying these associations.
Testing sociolinguistic theory and methods in world Englishes
Authors: Sharma Devyani
Published: July 2024

This article assesses mainstream sociolinguistic theory and methods in the context of world Englishes. Despite its obvious applicability, sociolinguistic theory has not always been the primary analytic model for world Englishes. The multilingual and sometimes mobile circumstances of world Englishes contexts do not always fit the usual definition of a Labovian speech community. This article extends classic sociolinguistic theory and method to studies of Outer Circle English situations to test their validity and scope. Predictions for class, gender, age, peer effects and identity are assessed, all initially developed in monolingual urban Western contexts. Methodological constructs such as apparent time, the sociolinguistics interview and social network metrics are also critically evaluated. The discussion shows that, although these new contexts challenge claims of universality, they often also uphold the original insights. A falsifiable theory of sociolinguistic variation and associated methods remain crucial for a principled understanding of variation and change in world Englishes.
Data-driven characterization of latent dynamics on quantum testbeds
Authors: Reddy Sohail , Günther Stefanie , Cho Yujin
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a data-driven approach to learn latent dynamics in superconducting quantum computing hardware. To this end, we augment the dynamical equation of quantum systems described by the Lindblad master equation with a parameterized source term that is trained from experimental data to capture unknown system dynamics, such as environmental interactions and system noise. We consider a structure preserving augmentation that learns and distinguishes unitary from dissipative latent dynamics parameterized by a basis of linear operators, as well as an augmentation given by a nonlinear feed-forward neural network. Numerical results are presented using data from two different quantum processing units (QPUs) at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's Quantum Device and Integration Testbed. We demonstrate that our interpretable, structure preserving, and nonlinear models are able to improve the prediction accuracy of the Lindblad master equation and accurately model the latent dynamics of the QPUs.
Soft and hard trimming of imprint resist masks to fabricate silicon nanodisk arrays with different edge roughness
Authors: Takano Naoki , Niinomi Hiromasa , Oshikiri Tomoya , Nakagawa Masaru
Published: July 2024

To investigate the formation mechanism of wrinkle structures in imprinted resist masks generated by oxygen reactive ion etching (O2 RIE), we compared UV/ozone exposure (soft trimming) and O2 RIE (hard trimming) as oxidative trimming methods to tune the diameters of disk resist masks in ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography of Mie-resonant silicon nanodisks (Si NDs). Variations in the residual layer thicknesses of the imprinted resin patterns demonstrated that the wrinkle structures around the disk resist masks increased after the residual layer was removed completely. A comparison between soft and hard trimming indicated that the UV/ozone exposure maintained a relatively small edge roughness of the disk resist masks during a reduction in diameter from 370 to 160 nm, whereas O2 RIE caused a large edge roughness owing to wrinkle structures with diameters below 300 nm. The wrinkled structures are likely to have originated from the wrinkling instability caused by the formation of an ion-damaged layer near the resist surfaces via O2 RIE involving ion bombardment, which could be transferred to a monocrystalline Si layer on a synthetic quartz substrate. Microscopic optical measurements revealed that 230 nm-diameter Si-ND arrays with small and large edge roughnesses exhibited almost identical reflection spectra at visible wavelengths.
Exploiting environmental asymmetry for vessel localization from the vertical coherence of radiated noise
Authors: Shajahan Najeem , Barclay David R. , Lin Ying-Tsong
Published: July 2024

A method to determine the range and bearing of a moving broadband acoustic source, such as a surface vessel, using the coherence measured on two omni-directional, vertically separated hydrophones is demonstrated using acoustic data recorded near Alvin Canyon on the New England shelf break. To estimate the vessel's range, two theoretical approaches, a half-space model and a Pekeris waveguide model based on normal modes, establish simple relationships between the broadband signal coherence and frequency, source range, and the vertical separation of the receiver hydrophones. A brute force inversion produces a passive acoustic estimate of vessel range. Rapidly changing bathymetry with large features, such as that near Alvin Canyon, produces azimuthal asymmetry in the plan-view coherence pattern about the receivers due to horizontal refraction, focussing, and the up- (down-) slope compression (extension) of modal interference patterns. For vessels with a constant speed and heading, this generates an asymmetry in the received power and vertical coherence fringing pattern. This effect is first demonstrated using reciprocal three-dimensional parabolic equation and raytracing models in an idealized Gaussian canyon, then observed in Alvin Canyon measurements. By comparing the experimental observations to the modeled coherence, the vessel's bearing and range relative to the receivers are obtained.