bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flow cytometric characterization of cecal appendix lymphocyte subpopulations in children: a pilot study
Authors: Arredondo Montero Javier , Torres López Andrea , Hurtado Ilzarbe Guillermina , Antona Giuseppa , Ros Briones Raquel , López-Andrés Natalia , Martín-Calvo Nerea
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Scientific literature regarding the characterization of lymphocyte subpopulations of the cecal appendix is sparse, with few precedents limited to immunohistochemical techniques.

Methods

We conducted a prospective pilot study to characterize lymphocyte subpopulations of the cecal appendix in children. Participants were divided into three groups: (1) patients without histological acute appendiceal inflammation, (2) patients with histological uncomplicated acute appendicitis, and (3) patients with histological complicated acute appendicitis (gangrenous, perforated). A fresh sample of the base of the appendix was taken from all patients and a flow cytometric study was performed. Quantitative variables were compared using Kruskal–Wallis test and Mann–Whitney U test.

Results

This study included 57 patients divided into Group 1 (n = 5), Group 2 (n = 37), and Group 3 (n = 15). Median values (IQR) of the percentage of B-lymphocytes were 67.8 [66.8–68.1] in group 1, 61.15 [53.74–66.4] in group 2, and 52.1 [33–62.02] in group 3 (p = 0.02). Median values (IQR) of the percentage of NK-lymphocytes were 0.26 [0.2–0.3] in group 1, 0.55 [0.37–0.66] in group 2, and 0.84 [0.35–1.45] in group 3 (p = 0.008). Median values (IQR) of the percentage of T-lymphocytes were 31.9 [31.7–33.1] in group 1, 37.68 [32.15–45.69] in group 2, and 46.9 [37.03–67] in group 3 (p = 0.02). Pair comparisons of groups 2 and 3 also showed significant differences in the percentage of B lymphocytes (p = 0.03) and NK-lymphocytes (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Significant differences in lymphocyte subpopulations were identified according to the histologic grade of the cecal appendix. More specifically, a lower percentage of B-lymphocytes and a higher percentage of T- and NK-lymphocytes were observed in cases of acute appendicitis. These findings must be confirmed and their etiopathogenic, diagnostic, and prognostic implications elucidated in future studies with larger sample sizes.
Neurological manifestation of HEV infection: still a rare disease entity?
Authors: Wiesenfarth Maximilian , Stamminger Thomas , Zizer Eugen , Tumani Hayrettin , Ludolph Albert C.
Published: September 2023

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is the most common form of viral hepatitis and is reported to cause neurological manifestation in up to 30% of diagnosed infections. We evaluated the medical reports of all patients (n = 29,994) who were discharged from the Department of Neurology of Ulm University between 01.01.2015 and 30.09.2022 to detect neurological manifestations of HEV. In addition, we retrospectively analyzed the serum samples of n = 99 patients representing different neurological diseases possibly related to HEV for anti-HEV-IgM and anti-HEV-IgG. At the time of discharge from hospital, the etiology of neurological symptoms in these patients was unclear. Overall, five cases of extrahepatic neurological manifestation of HEV (defined as anti-HEV-IgM and HEV-IgG positive) could be detected. An increase of both, anti-IgM- and anti-IgG-serum levels was significantly more common in neuralgic amyotrophy/plexus neuritis/radiculitis than in AIDP/CIDP (P = 0.01), meningitis/encephalitis (P = 0.02), idiopathic peripheral facial paralysis (P = 0.02) and tension headache (P = 0.02). In 15% (n = 15 out of 99) of retrospectively analyzed serum samples, conspicuous positive anti-HEV-IgG levels were detected. This finding was most common in AIDP/CIDP. In conclusion, results of this study indicate neurological manifestation of HEV to be a rare but still underestimated course of disease, occurring at any age and gender. Therefore, testing for HEV should be considered in patients with neurological symptoms of unknown origin, especially in those with neuralgic amyotrophy/plexus neuritis.
The analysis of factors increasing the odds for type 2 diabetes mellitus remission following re-do bariatric surgery after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy- cohort study
Authors: Wysocki Michał , Ciszek Karol , Rymarowicz Justyna , Zarzycki Piotr , Walędziak Maciej , Bartosiak Katarzyna , Jaworski Paweł , Kupczyk Wojciech , Szeliga Jacek , Tarnowski Wiesław , Pisarska-Adamczyk Magdalena , Małczak Piotr , Pędziwiatr Michał , Major Piotr ,   PROSS- Collaborative Study Group members, Stefura Tomasz , Myśliwiec Piotr , Hady Hady Razak , Głuszyńska Paulina , Proczko-Stepaniak Monika , Szymański Michał , Janik Michał , Kwiatkowski Andrzej , Materlak Magdalena , Czyżykowski Łukasz , Mawlichanów Maciej , Kowalewski Piotr , Dowgiałło-Gornowicz Natalia , Lech Paweł , Harań Anna , Kowalski Grzegorz , Mulek Rafał , Kreft Michał , Orłowski Michał , Franczak Paula , Binda Artur , Kamiński Mateusz , Pastuszka Maciej , Lisik Wojciech , Szymański Paweł , Katkowski Bartosz , Leśniak Michał
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Metabolic/bariatric surgery is the only proven treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) with curative intent. However, in a number of patients, the surgery is not effective or they may experience a relapse. Those patients can be offered re-do bariatric surgery (RBS).

Purpose

The study aimed to determine factors increasing the odds for T2D remission one year after RBS following primary laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective cohort study was conducted between January 2010 and January 2020, which included 12 bariatric centers in Poland. The study population was divided into groups: Group 1- patients with T2D remission after RBS (n = 28) and Group 2- patients without T2D remission after RBS (n = 49). T2D remission was defined as HBA1c < 6.0% without glucose-lowering pharmacotherapy and glycemia within normal range at time of follow-up that was completed 12 months after RBS.

Results

Fifty seven females and 20 males were included in the study. Patients who achieved BMI < 33 kg/m2 after RBS and those with %EBMIL > 60.7% had an increased chance of T2D remission (OR = 3.39, 95%CI = 1.28–8.95, p = 0.014 and OR = 12.48, 95%CI 2.67–58.42, p = 0.001, respectively). Time interval between primary LSG and RBS was significantly shorter in Group 1 than in Group 2 [1 (1–4) vs. 3 (2–4) years, p = 0.023].

Conclusions

Shorter time interval between LSG and RBS may ease remission of T2D in case of lack of remission after primary procedure. Significant excess weight loss seems to be the most crucial factor for T2D remission.
Homogenization assumptions for the two-scale analysis of first-order shear deformable shells
Authors: Mester Leonie , Klarmann Simon , Klinkel Sven
Published: September 2023

This contribution presents a multiscale approach for the analysis of shell structures using Reissner–Mindlin kinematics. A distinctive feature is that the thickness of the representative volume element (RVE) corresponds to the shell thickness. The main focus of this paper is on the choice of correct boundary conditions for the RVE. Three different types of boundary conditions, which fulfil the Hill–Mandel condition, are presented to bridge the two scales. A common feature is the application of zero-traction boundary conditions at the top and bottom surfaces of the RVE. Furthermore, an internal constraint is used to reduce the dependency of the stiffness components on the RVE size. The introduced boundary conditions differ mainly in the application of shear strains and their symmetry requirements on the RVE. The characteristic features are compared by means of linear-elastic benchmark tests. It is shown that the stress resultants and tangent stiffness components are obtained correctly. Moreover, the presented approach is verified using different macroscopic shell structures and different mesostructures. Both, linear and nonlinear small strain examples are compared to analytical values or full-scale solutions and demonstrate a wide applicability of the present formulation.
Metabolomic profiling of amino acids study reveals a distinct diagnostic model for diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Wang Jiao , Zhou Chunyu , Zhang Qing , Liu Zhangsuo
Published: September 2023

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD), a highly prevalent complication of diabetes mellitus, is a major cause of mortality in patients. However, identifying circulatory markers to diagnose DKD requires a thorough understanding of the metabolic mechanisms of DKD. In this study, we performed ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) to reveal altered metabolic profiles of amino acids (AAs) in patients with DKD. We found decreased plasma levels of histidine and valine, increased urine levels of proline, decreased urine levels of histidine and valine, and increased saliva levels of arginine in patients with DKD compared with the levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and in healthy controls. Our analyses of the key metabolites and metabolic enzymes involved in histidine and valine metabolism indicated that the AAs level alterations may be due to enhanced carnosine hydrolysis, decreased degradation of homocarnosine and anserine, enhanced histidine methylation, and systemic enhancement of valine metabolism in patients with DKD. Notably, we generated a distinct diagnostic model with an AUC of 0.957 and an accuracy up to 92.2% on the basis of the AA profiles in plasma, urine and saliva differing in patients with DKD using logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic analyses. In conclusion, our results suggest that altered AA metabolic profiles are associated with the progression of DKD. Our DKD diagnostic model on the basis of AA levels in plasma, urine, and saliva may provide a theoretical basis for innovative strategies to diagnose DKD that may replace cumbersome kidney biopsies.
Investigating projectile penetration into immersed granular beds via CFD-DEM coupling
Authors: Lin Jiayu , Zhao Tao , Jiang Mingjing
Published: September 2023

Projectile penetration into an immersed granular bed is a common phenomenon in both geophysics and engineering, encompassing various scenarios such as immersed crater formation and offshore soil-structure interaction. It involves the complex physical interaction between the fluid and granular materials. In this study, we investigate the dynamics of projectile penetration into a granular bed immersed in a fluid using a coupled computational fluid dynamics and discrete element method (CFD-DEM). The granular bed is composed of polydisperse particles, and the projectile is modeled as a rigid sphere. The morphology of crater formation, the dynamics of the projectile, and the drag force characteristics in immersed cases were studied in detail and compared to the dry scenario. The numerical results show that the final penetration depth of the projectile follows an empirical relation derived from experimental observations, where the falling height and the drag force during penetration obey a power-law function and a modified generalized Poncelet law, respectively. The interstitial fluid not only provides direct drag force, but also enhances the effective drag force of the granular bed by improving its generalized friction and effective viscosity in different configurations. Micro-analyses of the velocity evolution and contact force network in different stages of the fluid–solid interaction were performed to clarify the penetration dynamics. This research provides insights into the mechanisms of projectile penetration and the effects of interstitial fluid on granular media, which are crucial in engineering applications such as offshore anchoring, ball penetration tests in soft sediments, and soil-structure interactions.

Graphical Abstract
Distribution, threats and protection of selected karst groundwater-dependent ecosystems in the Mediterranean region
Authors: Siegel Lena , Goldscheider Nico , Petitta Marco , Xanke Julian , Andreo Bartolomé , Bakalowicz Michel , Barberá Juan Antonio , Bouhlila Rachida , Burg Avihu , Doummar Joanna , Ezzine Ines , Fernández-Ortega Jaime , Ghanmi Mohamed , Jourde Hervé , Marín Ana Isabel , Mhimdi Amal , Pipan Tanja , Ravbar Nataša , Stevanović Aleksandra Maran , Stevanović Zoran
Published: September 2023

Karst groundwater-dependent ecosystems (KGDEs) in the Mediterranean region are important in terms of ecosystem services and biodiversity but are increasingly under anthropogenic pressures and climate-change constraints. For this study, the ecohydrological characteristics, threats, and protection status of 112 selected KGDEs around the Mediterranean Sea, including caves, springs, rivers and wetlands, were evaluated, based on local expert knowledge and scientific literature. Results demonstrate that KGDEs contribute considerably to regional biodiversity. The diversity of karst landscapes, combined with the groundwater emergence at springs, leads to exceptional habitat diversity, particularly in arid climates, where KGDEs serve as a refuge for species that could not thrive in the surrounding environment. The most common threats identified among the selected sites are direct human disturbances, such as mass tourism or overfishing, water-quality deterioration and water shortage from aquifer overdraft and/or climate change. Although most of the selected sites are under protection, conservation measures are frequently insufficient. Such shortcomings are often caused by poor data availability, little knowledge on conservation needs of invertebrate species, and conflicts of interest with the local population. For this purpose, it is necessary to raise environmental awareness and promote interdisciplinary research, in order to monitor water quality and quantity in addition to the status of the biocenoses.
Role of Mediterranean diet in the development and recurrence of meningiomas: a narrative review
Authors: Costanzo Roberta , Simonetta Irene , Musso Sofia , Benigno Umberto Emanuele , Cusimano Luigi Maria , Giovannini Evier Andrea , Giardina Kevin , Abrignani Vincenzo , Baglio Irene , Albanese Alessio , Iacopino Domenico Gerardo , Maugeri Rosario , Tuttolomondo Antonino
Published: September 2023

Several studies through the years have proven how an unhealthy nutrition, physical inactivity, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and smoking represent relevant risk factors in cancer genesis. This study aims to provide an overview about the relationship between meningiomas and food assumption in the Mediterranean diet and whether it can be useful in meningioma prevention or it, somehow, can prevent their recurrence. The authors performed a wide literature search in PubMed and Scopus databases investigating the presence of a correlation between Mediterranean diet and meningiomas. The following MeSH and free text terms were used: “Meningiomas” AND “Diet” and “Brain tumors” AND “diet.” Databases’ search yielded a total of 749 articles. After duplicate removal, an abstract screening according to the eligibility criteria has been performed and 40 articles were selected. Thirty-one articles were excluded because they do not meet the inclusion criteria. Finally, a total of 9 articles were included in this review. It is widely established the key and protective role that a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet can have against tumorigenesis. Nevertheless, studies focusing exclusively on the Mediterranean diet are still lacking. Thus, multicentric and/or prospective, randomized studies are mandatory to better assess and determine the impact of food assumptions in meningioma involvement.
Landscape scale control of selected mammalian predators fails to protect lizards
Authors: Monks Joanne M. , Besson Anne A. , O’Donnell Colin F. J.
Published: September 2023

Invasive mammalian predators are a global biodiversity problem, particularly in archipelagos in which native fauna evolved in isolation from mammals. Landscape scale management of selected invasive mammalian predators is occurring across Aotearoa New Zealand to protect vulnerable forest birds and bats. In temperate southern beech forests, both predator irruptions and the timing of predator control is driven by mast seeding of beech trees. Relationships between predators targeted in this control, other invasive mammalian predators and other native taxa, particularly lizards and invertebrates, are poorly understood. We monitored southern grass skinks in the Eglinton Valley, Fiordland from 2009 to 2020 alongside monitoring of predators (stoats, rats and mice) in a system where predator control occurred in response to mast seeding. We evaluated relationships between skink abundance and abundance of rats (targeted in predator control operations) and mice (which also prey on small vertebrates like lizards, but are not controlled). Skink abundance declined over time and was negatively correlated with mouse abundance, but not correlated with rat abundance. Current landscape predator control to protect forest birds and bats is likely insufficient to protect ground-dwelling lizards, and may actually be detrimental to lizard populations if controlling the other predators contributes to a mesopredator release of mice. Mice are significant predators of a range of small vertebrates and large invertebrates, yet research into the sustainable suppression of mice to benefit vulnerable native populations is lacking. We strongly advocate for such research in order to deliver conservation management that benefits the full suite of biodiversity.
Distribution-free algorithms for predictive stochastic programming in the presence of streaming data
Authors: Diao Shuotao , Sen Suvrajeet
Published: September 2023

This paper studies a fusion of concepts from stochastic programming and non-parametric statistical learning in which data is available in the form of covariates interpreted as predictors and responses. Such models are designed to impart greater agility, allowing decisions under uncertainty to adapt to the knowledge of predictors (leading indicators). This paper studies two classes of methods for such joint prediction-optimization models. One of the methods may be classified as a first-order method, whereas the other studies piecewise linear approximations. Both of these methods are based on coupling non-parametric estimation for predictive purposes, and optimization for decision-making within one unified framework. In addition, our study incorporates several non-parametric estimation schemes, includingknearest neighbors (kNN) and other standard kernel estimators. Our computational results demonstrate that the new algorithms proposed in this paper outperform traditional approaches which were not designed for streaming data applications requiring simultaneous estimation and optimization as important design features for such algorithms. For instance, couplingkNN with Stochastic Decomposition (SD) turns out to be over 40 times faster than an online version of Benders Decomposition while finding decisions of similar quality. Such computational results motivate a paradigm shift in optimization algorithms that are intended for modern streaming applications.
Reef structure of the Florida Reef Tract for the period 2005–2020
Authors: Fisher William S.
Published: September 2023

Shallow-water coral reefs of the Florida Reef Tract compose the third largest reef in the world, but during the last several decades, scleractinian (stony) corals have suffered unprecedented declines from global and local stressors. A program to evaluate the effects of high-temperature bleaching events was initiated by The Nature Conservancy’s Florida Reef Resilience Program in 2005 and surveys have been completed across at least some portion of the entire region every year since. The program adopted a demographic (colony-based) assessment approach, which records colony species, size (height and maximum diameter), and estimated partial mortality (percent barren skeleton). Because reef structure is critical to ecosystem functioning and services, data from 2005 to 2020 were analyzed to describe the abundance, size, and morphological complexity of stony coral colonies forming the biogenic reef. Colony height, footprint, surface area, and volume summed for 6016 transects were used to describe reef structure and averages were used to characterize the components that contributed to the structure. Nearly 150,000 colonies representing 49 species were reported during this period and results demonstrated both spatial and temporal changes for the region and for geographic subregions. Some subregions showed increasing colony density, especially for three small, hemispheric species, and declining average colony size.
Characterisation of all integral circulant graphs with multiplicative divisor sets and few eigenvalues
Authors: Sander J. W. , Sander T.
Published: September 2023

We present a method which in principal allows to characterise all integral circulant graphs with multiplicative divisor set having a spectrum, i.e. the set of distinct eigenvalues, of any given size. We shall exemplify the method for spectra of up to four eigenvalues, also reproving some known results for three eigenvalues along the way. In particular we show that given any integral circulant graph of arbitrary order n with multiplicative divisor set and precisely four distinct eigenvalues, n necessarily is either a prime power or the product of two prime powers with explicitly given simply structured divisor set and set of eigenvalues in both cases.
Markets and knowledge commons: Is there a difference between private and community governance of markets?
Authors: Dekker Erwin , Kuchař Pavel
Published: September 2023

It is well-established that market governance can be provided by both public (state) and private organizations. However, the concept of private governance has been used, this article contends, to refer to two distinct forms of non-state governance: private governance and community governance. We distinguish between these two forms, arguing that private governance should be understood as the provision of market governance by (external) private parties, while community governance refers to a process where a group, a community, or society has the autonomy to govern its own affairs without interference from external authorities. The former internalizes the externalities associated with governance, while the latter comes about mainly as an unintended externality of social interaction in markets. To further illuminate the differences, and the relative strengths of these types of non-state governance, we distinguish among three elements of market governance: (1) the formation and interpretation of rules, (2) the administration of rules of ownership and exchange, and (3) the enforcement of rules. We argue that community governance is of great relevance for the formation and interpretation of the rules of ownership and exchange, which is consequently very hard to outsource to external parties, private or public. Community governance also plays a frequently overlooked role in administration and enforcement through the process of co-production. Rule formation and interpretation are theorized as the epistemic components of market governance, which can be analyzed within the Governing Knowledge Commons framework.
Devaluation of Women’s Sexual Pleasure: Role of Relationship Context and Endorsement of the Madonna-Whore Dichotomy
Authors: Klein Verena , Kosman Eden , Kahalon Rotem
Published: September 2023

In two pre-registered experiments with German samples, we tested the role of endorsement of the Madonna-whore-dichotomy and the relationship context (sex in a committed relationship vs. casual sex) in the devaluation of women’s sexual pleasure. Using the context of dating apps in Study 1, men who reported higher endorsement of the Madonna-whore-dichotomy believed that other men would be less interested in fulfilling a woman’s sexual desires, show her less respect, and be less likely to wear a condom independent of relationship context (i.e., casual hookup dating app vs. a dating app for a serious relationship). In Study 2, men who reported higher endorsement of the Madonna-whore-dichotomy rated their partner as less entitled to sexual pleasure than men lower on Madonna-whore dichotomy endorsement. In addition, women who reported higher endorsement of the Madonna-whore dichotomy devalued their own pleasure by rating their partner as more entitled to sexual pleasure than themselves, compared to those lower on the Madonna-whore dichotomy. Although relationship context and Madonna-whore dichotomy endorsement did not interact, they were both found to negatively predict women’s sexual pleasure. These results provide further support for the potential costs of enacting traditional, patriarchal gender roles for women’s experiences of sexual pleasure and safety.
Massive and parallel 10 Tbit/s physical random bit generation with chaotic microcomb
Authors: Hu Yuqi , Bai Qingsong , Tang Xi , Xiong Wei , Wu Yilu , Zhang Xin , Xiao Yanlan , Du Runchang , Liu Leiji , Xia Guangqiong , Wu Zhengmao , Yang Junbo , Zhou Heng , Wu Jiagui
Published: September 2023

Ultrafast physical random bit (PRB) generators and integrated schemes have proven to be valuable in a broad range of scientific and technological applications. In this study, we experimentally demonstrated a PRB scheme with a chaotic microcomb using a chip-scale integrated resonator. A microcomb contained hundreds of chaotic channels, and each comb tooth functioned as an entropy source for the PRB. First, a 12 Gbits/s PRB signal was obtained for each tooth channel with proper post-processing and passed the NIST Special Publication 800-22 statistical tests. The chaotic microcomb covered a wavelength range from 1430 to 1675 nm with a free spectral range (FSR) of 100 GHz. Consequently, the combined random bit sequence could achieve an ultra-high rate of about 4 Tbits/s (12 Gbits/s × 294 = 3.528 Tbits/s), with 294 teeth in the experimental microcomb. Additionally, denser microcombs were experimentally realized using an integrated resonator with 33.6 GHz FSR. A total of 805 chaotic comb teeth were observed and covered the wavelength range from 1430 to 1670 nm. In each tooth channel, 12 Gbits/s random sequences was generated, which passed the NIST test. Consequently, the total rate of the PRB was approximately 10 Tbits/s (12 Gbits/s × 805 = 9.66 Tbits/s). These results could offer potential chip solutions of Pbits/s PRB with the features of low cost and a high degree of parallelism.

Graphical Abstract
Environmental DNA (eDNA) assays for the detection of Ridgway’s rail (Rallus obsoletus) in the United States
Authors: Guan Xin , Lance Richard F. , Feist Sheena M.
Published: September 2023

We designed two novel environmental DNA (eDNA) assays for the detection of Ridgway’s Rail (Rallus obsoletus), and successfully validated each assay using eDNA samples collected from the species’ known distribution within the United States. These assays add to the suite of tools available for the monitoring of this rare and secretive marsh bird, and may help to further elucidate its movement patterns as well as identify important migration corridors. Observed sensitivity of the assays indicates exceptional performance, with limits of detection at ≤ 8 copies of the target eDNA fragment per reaction. Our publication adds to the growing body of literature supporting eDNA surveys as viable tools for bird monitoring endeavors.
On homogeneous $$\eta $$-Einstein almost cosymplectic manifolds
Authors: Lotta Antonio
Published: September 2023

We prove that every compact, homogeneous $$\eta $$
η
-Einstein almost cosymplectic manifold is a cosymplectic manifold.
Climate Ethics and the Everyday Lifeworld
Authors: Müller-Salo Johannes
Published: September 2023

Our everyday lifeworlds, the environments in which we spend our daily lives, in which we exercise agency and control and to which we are bound through practical knowledge and routines, receive little attention in contemporary climate ethics. This is unfortunate, as climate ethics can benefit from an in-depth analysis of the lifeworld-perspective—especially when it comes to evaluating the individual’s role in the face of climate change. This paper focuses on two key problems, the problem of individual climate responsibility and the problem of the individual’s motivation to support climate protection policies. Currently discussed strategies to solve both problems face serious objections. A lifeworld-oriented perspective, so I argue, helps us to better understand both problems as well as the reasons why they are practically resistant to solutions proposed in the philosophical literature. My main claim is that climate change’s serious consequences cannot be experienced in the current everyday lifeworlds of most people who live in the Western hemisphere. In consequence, appeals to conscience lack adequate grounding in everyday contexts. These contexts, however, have a decisive impact on the individual’s motivation and moral behavior. Based on this critique, I give some suggestions how the problems of individual responsibility and motivation could be handled from a lifeworld-oriented perspective.
Archaeology as Service
Authors: Herr Sarah A. , van der Linde Sjoerd , Rieth Christina B.
Published: September 2023

This article provides an introduction to the theme issue “Archaeology of Service.” We explore how performing service in archaeology articulates with the concepts and practices of community-based archaeology, collaborative archaeology, and the Archaeologies of the Heart projects and their larger purposes of approaching work through a lens of social and environmental justice. We introduce seven articles that describe working in communities around the world, including the Bininj of the Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation in the Northwest Territory of Australia; the Bunun of the Lakulaku River Basin in Taiwan; the Passamaquoddy Nation in Maine (USA); people from 21 First Nations in the province of Ontario, Canada; the diverse communities of Oklahoma (USA); the African American community in Bolivar, Texas (USA); and the people of San Cristóbal Island in the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador. The articles are tied together by the common theme of collaborative work that is built through relationships of trust and is conducted in ways that strive to change the institutional and educational structures in which archaeology is practiced.
Improving hen welfare on cage-free egg farms in Asia: Egg producers’ perspectives
Authors: Hartcher Kate , Nuggehalli Jayasimha , Yang Qing , de Luna Maria Catalina T. , Agus Ali , Ito Shuichi , Idrus Zulkifli , Rahayu Iman H.S. , Jattuchai Jutamart , Descovich Kris , Lane Elissa , Sinclair Michelle
Published: September 2023

There is a trend towards the adoption of cage-free housing systems in the egg industry across Asia. While cage-free housing systems can hold significant animal welfare advantages over cages, there can also be challenges in managing these systems. This exploratory study aimed to investigate the perspectives of egg producers on the main challenges and proposed solutions associated with cage-free systems in China, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Cage-free producers found disease prevention and maintaining a healthy profit margin more difficult than producers from cage farms, while it was less difficult to provide environmental enrichment in cage-free systems compared to cage farms. The top challenges for cage-free producers were the cost of production, system management, disease, sales, and egg production, and the top proposed solution was to improve on-farm practices and efficiencies. Eighty-one percent of egg producers believed that more support is needed to maintain their farms than is currently available, and support was most needed in helping to improve sales, improve farm operations, lower farm costs, and provide information for producers in the form of education and training. Most responses identified the government as the stakeholder that should offer support. These results may help direct further studies in this field as well as supplying information to develop relevant initiatives with an emphasis on education and training, thereby improving animal welfare on cage-free farms and increasing the uptake of high welfare cage-free farms across the region.
Predicting risk factors for pediatric mortality in clinical trial research: A retrospective, cross-sectional study using a Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project database
Authors: Ma Jiahui , Johnson Elizabeth A. , McCrory Bernadette
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Incorporating real-world data using “big data” analysis in healthcare are useful to extract specific information for healthcare delivery system improvement. All-cause mortality is an essential measure to enhance patient safety in clinical trial research, especially for underrepresented pediatric participants.

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the associations between pediatric mortality and patient-specific factors using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) database.

Methods:

Data from the 2019 the HCUP Kids’ Inpatient Database (KID) were used to conduct a logistic regression analysis to determine associations between pediatric patients’ the chance of survival and their demographic and socioeconomic background, discharge records, and hospital information.

Results:

Total number of diagnoses (OR = 0.84), total number of procedures (OR = 0.86), length of stay (OR = 1.04), age intervals greater than 1 year (OR > 1.0), transfer into the hospital from a different acute care (OR = 0.34), major diagnoses of multiple significant trauma (OR = 0.03) or hepatobiliary system and pancreas (OR = 0.10), region of hospital – west and midwest (OR > 1.0), and medium or larger hospital bed size (OR > 1.0) were all significantly associated with the chance of survival for patients participating in pediatric clinical trials (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Real-world clinical trial data analysis showed the potential improvement area including reallocating trial resources to promote trial quality and safe participation for pediatric patients. Pediatric trials need tools that are developed using user-centered design approaches to satisfy the unique needs and requirements of pediatric patients and their caregivers. Safe intrahospital transfer procedures and active dissemination of successful trial best practices are crucial to trial management, adherence, quality, and safety.
Precisely constrained 134-ka strong monsoon event in the penultimate deglaciation by an annually laminated speleothem from the Asian monsoon domain
Authors: Cui Jiahui , Zhao Jingyao , Dong Xiyu , Pérez-Mejías Carlos , Lu Jing , Tian Ye , Wang Jian , Pan Liangkang , Zhang Haiwei , Cheng Hai
Published: September 2023

The penultimate deglaciation was characterized by a sub-millennial-scale warm event in the Heinrich Stadial 11(HS11), termed the 134-ka event. However, its precise timing and structure remain poorly constrained due to the lack of high-resolution and precisely dated records. We present an oxygen isotope record of a speleothem with well-developed annual lamina from Zhangjia Cave, located on the north margin of the Sichuan Basin, characterizing Asian summer monsoon (ASM) changes in the 134-ka event, which included an increase excursion of ca. 149 years and decrease excursion of ca. 200 years, inferred from 3.3‰ δ18O variations. This event also divided the weak ASM interval-II (WMI-II), corresponding to HS11, into two stages, the WMI-IIa 132.8–134.1 ka and WMI-IIb 134.4–136.4 ka. With a comparable climatic pattern globally, the 134-ka event is essentially similar to the millennial-scale events in last glacial–deglacial period. Particularly, the observed weak-strong-weak ASM sequence (138.8–132.8 ka) is largely controlled by changes in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) forced by the meltwater of northern high-latitude ice sheets. Moreover, our results underpin that AMOC, rather than the global ice volume, is more critical to ASM variations during the last two deglaciations.
Punctelia borreri and P. subrudecta (Parmeliaceae) associate with a partially overlapping pool of Trebouxia gelatinosa lineages
Authors: Garrido-Benavent Isaac , Mora-Rodríguez María Reyes , Chiva Salvador , Fos Simon , Barreno Eva
Published: September 2023

An increasing number of studies are describing the diversity of lichen phycobionts, which is leading to a better understanding of how lichen communities are assembled at different taxonomic, evolutionary and geographical scales. The present study explores the identity and genetic diversity of the microalgal partners of Punctelia borreri and P. subrudecta, two tropical and temperate parmelioid lichen fungi that often grow in temperate and Mediterranean forest ecosystems in Europe. Based on a specimen sampling distributed in two climatically divergent regions in the Iberian Peninsula, we found that these mycobionts are associated with Trebouxia gelatinosa, whose identity was also confirmed by an ultrastructural study of the pyrenoid. The bipartite network analysis indicated that each Punctelia species was associated with a different set of low frequency T. gelatinosa infraspecific lineages, whereas the two most abundant phycobiont lineages were shared between both mycobionts. Based on the current sampling, these two algal lineages occur exclusively in one of the two studied regions, which might point towards climate-driven, fine-tuned fungal-algal interactions. Finally, we documented visible symptoms of injury on the thalli in areas likely to have been impacted by air pollution.
Phylogenetic insight into the Lecidea atrobrunnea complex – evidence of narrow geographic endemics and the pressing need for integrative taxonomic revisions
Authors: Anantaprayoon Nopparat , Hollinger Jason , Robison Abigail , Kraichak Ekaphan , Root Heather , Leavitt Steven D.
Published: September 2023

Species of lichen-forming fungi (LFF) display an array of geographical distribution patterns. Among the broadly distributed lichen-forming fungal species, the degree of reproductive isolation and genetic substructure among populations varies widely, in some cases masking unrecognized diversity or meaningful biogeographical patterns. Lecidea atrobrunnea (Raymond ex Lam. & DC.) Schaer. s. lat. (Lecideaceae) is a widespread species complex that has been studied for over two centuries since its initial description. The diversity of the L. atrobrunnea group is highest in western North America, where a dizzying array of morphologies and chemistry can occur at local scales. Here we investigate whether the assumed cosmopolitan distribution of L. atrobrunnea s. lat. is an artifact of taxonomic limitations and masks biogeographical patterns in this species complex. To address these questions, we compiled sequence data from the standard fungal barcoding marker (ITS) for over 100 specimens within this complex, in addition to genome-scale data from a subset of these representing over 1600 single-copy nuclear genes spanning over 3 Mb of the genome. Our study corroborates the perspective that the morphologically and chemically variable Lecidea atrobrunnea group reflects a complex of distinct species-level lineages, with 42–83 candidate species inferred from the ITS region and high levels of diversity inferred from a subset of specimens using genome-scale data. However, both phenotype- and molecular-based species boundaries remained unsettled, with the most common nominal taxa recovered as highly polyphyletic and with conflict among different molecular species delimitation approaches. Our study also highlights the potential for geographically restricted species, with fascinating biogeographical patterns, challenging, in part, the assumed cosmopolitan distribution of L. atrobrunnea s. lat. This study provides valuable direction for future research that will be crucial in understanding diversification and establishing a robust taxonomy for this well-known species complex.
Natura 2000 network enhances the protection of rare epiphytic lichens: evidence from forest sites of Central Italy
Authors: Frati Luisa , Brunialti Giorgio
Published: September 2023

Although epiphytic lichens are widely adopted as environmental indicators, they are not yet included among the target species listed in Annex II of the Habitats Directive, to which the system of protected areas of the Natura 2000 network refers. In this work, we aim to test the effectiveness of this system, mainly designed for the conservation of other groups of species, in protecting lichen species richness. For this purpose, we considered a case study (Central Italy) with half of the territory included in protected areas. Statistical differences in species richness and lichen communities were tested between sites located in 16 Protected Areas (PA) and 11 Non-Protected Areas (NPA) using non-parametric tests, multi-response permutation procedures (MRPP), non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) and Indicator Species Analysis (ISA). Despite the broad overlap between epiphytic lichen communities of NPAs and PAs and a similar number of total and common species, PAs contain a significantly higher number of nationally rare and extremely rare species, including cyanolichens. These results are also confirmed by the indicator analysis. Although the Natura 2000 network does not explicitly address the conservation of lichens, the protected areas in our study can play a role in protecting the diversity of epiphytic lichens, especially nationally rare and endangered species. However, the future inclusion of red-listed epiphytic lichens among the target species of Annex II of the Habitats Directive would be welcome to better protect these organisms on a European level.
Circinaria nimisii (Megasporaceae, lichenized Ascomycota), a new manna lichen from Greece
Authors: Sohrabi Mohammad , Leavitt Steven D. , Obermayer Walter , Mayrhofer Helmut
Published: September 2023

The manna lichens, a group of vagrant species with subfruticose and subfoliose thalli in the genus Circinaria Link, have received attention for millennia. Here, a new manna lichen species, Circinaria nimisii sp. nov. (Megasporaceae), is described and illustrated. This vagrant lichen is found on Mount Olympus in Greece and is the fourth known manna lichen in Europe. The new taxon is characterized by its subfruticose, densely-branched thallus with a muddy, earthy colour, whitish pseudocyphellae on tips of branches, mature apothecia distinctly adnate to stipitate, and paraplectenchymatous cortex tissue. Molecular sequence data from the standard barcoding marker (nrITS) also corroborate the distinction of this species from closely related congeners. Finally, Agrestia zerovii, previously known only from its type locality in Ukraine, is proposed as a new synonym of Circinaria hispida.
Marchantiana pyramus, M. ramulicola and Austroplaca thisbe (Teloschistaceae, lichenized Ascomycota) – three new twig lichens from southern Patagonia
Authors: Søchting Ulrik , Sancho Leo G. , Arup Ulf
Published: September 2023

Three twig-growing lichen species belonging to the family Teloschistaceae from southern Patagonia are described as new to science: Marchantiana pyramus sp. nov., with minute apothecia, orange due to dominant content of emodin, M. ramulicola sp. nov., with minute olive apothecia with dominant parietin and Austroplaca thisbe sp. nov., with clear yellow apothecia also with dominant parietin. Marchantiana subpyracea, M. epibrya and M. queenslandica are new combinations for species which, so far, are known only from New Zealand and Australia. Blastenia circumpolaris is shown to be very common in Patagonia and Marchantiana asserigena is documented for the first time from the Southern Hemisphere, viz. the Falkland Islands. The genus Marchantiana is analyzed here using three genes and is shown to be closely related to Yoshimuria; although appearing as paraphyletic, a monophyletic origin cannot be ruled out. Morphology, ecology and distribution support a monophyletic treatment and Marchantiana is therefore treated as such.
Arthonia epipolytropa and Arthonia subclemens, two new lichenicolous species on Lecanora polytropa, with a key to the microfungi known on this common species
Authors: Hafellner Josef , Grube Martin
Published: September 2023

Arthonia epipolytropa Hafellner & Grube and Arthonia subclemens Hafellner, Grube & Muggia are described as new to science. Both are specific parasites of Lecanora polytropa s. lat., but of differing pathogenicity and of very different appearance. Whereas the clearly parasitic Arthonia epipolytropa with its agglomerated ascomata is presently known with certainty from a number of localities along the arch of the Alps (Austria, Italy, Switzerland), other parts of Europe (Norway, Albania) and northern America (USA), the less harmful A. subclemens with its isolated sunken ascomata is currently known only from a small number of localities in the Eastern Alps (Austria, Italy) and various mountain ranges in southern Europe (Spain, North Macedonia, Greece). The species are compared with other Arthonia species known from Lecanora or one of its recently segregated genera. A key to the fungi regularly found on Lecanora polytropa s. lat. is presented.
Growth-dependent acclimation constrains climatic response for the lichen epiphyte Lobaria pulmonaria
Authors: Chinnery Emma V. , Ellis Christopher J.
Published: September 2023

Species can respond to climate change by migrating to track their suitable climate space, and/or through adaptation (across generations) or acclimation (by individuals) to a changed in situ environment. Lichens provide an excellent model for studying acclimation; being poikilohydric, there is strong evidence that their phenotype presents an adaptation to different moisture regimes, and that key aspects of the phenotype, notably specific thallus mass (STM), have plasticity towards effective acclimation that maximizes water storage in drier environments. In this study we quantified acclimation of STM for Lobaria pulmonaria across a regional climatic gradient, and within sites for different microclimates, using a one-year common garden growth experiment. We found that STM tended to increase with thallus growth; however, when accounting for growth, STM shifted to be lower than average in wetter environments, higher than average in intermediate environments, and failed to respond in the driest environment where growth was compromised. The possibility of phenotypic acclimation in Lobaria pulmonaria appears to be functionally linked to the propensity for growth, and we present a scheme coupling growth with STM to define the limits of the species realized niche.