bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The R-mAtrIx Net
Authors: Lal Shailesh , Majumder Suvajit , Sobko Evgeny
Published: June 2024

We provide a novel neural network architecture that can: i) output R-matrix for a given quantum integrable spin chain, ii) search for an integrable Hamiltonian and the corresponding R-matrix under assumptions of certain symmetries or other restrictions, iii) explore the space of Hamiltonians around already learned models and reconstruct the family of integrable spin chains which they belong to. The neural network training is done by minimizing loss functions encoding Yang–Baxter equation, regularity and other model-specific restrictions such as hermiticity. Holomorphy is implemented via the choice of activation functions. We demonstrate the work of our neural network on the spin chains of difference form with two-dimensional local space. In particular, we reconstruct the R-matrices for all 14 classes. We also demonstrate its utility as an Explorer, scanning a certain subspace of Hamiltonians and identifying integrable classes after clusterisation. The last strategy can be used in future to carve out the map of integrable spin chains with higher dimensional local space and in more general settings where no analytical methods are available.
Deep learning methods for Hamiltonian parameter estimation and magnetic domain image generation in twisted van der Waals magnets
Authors: Lee Woo Seok , Song Taegeun , Kim Kyoung-Min
Published: June 2024

The application of twist engineering in van der Waals magnets has opened new frontiers in the field of two-dimensional magnetism, yielding distinctive magnetic domain structures. Despite the introduction of numerous theoretical methods, limitations persist in terms of accuracy or efficiency due to the complex nature of the magnetic Hamiltonians pertinent to these systems. In this study, we introduce a deep-learning approach to tackle these challenges. Utilizing customized, fully connected networks, we develop two deep-neural-network kernels that facilitate efficient and reliable analysis of twisted van der Waals magnets. Our regression model is adept at estimating the magnetic Hamiltonian parameters of twisted bilayer CrI3 from its magnetic domain images generated through atomistic spin simulations. The ‘generative model’ excels in producing precise magnetic domain images from the provided magnetic parameters. The trained networks for these models undergo thorough validation, including statistical error analysis and assessment of robustness against noisy injections. These advancements not only extend the applicability of deep-learning methods to twisted van der Waals magnets but also streamline future investigations into these captivating yet poorly understood systems.
Laughter Means Sympathy?
Authors: Ward Matthew
Published: June 2024

Opening with Thomas Carlyle’s unusual suggestion in 1840 that ‘laughter means sympathy’, this chapter explores the complicated and ambivalent place of laughter within the culture of feeling of the eighteenth century and Romantic period. For many at the time, to be a man of feeling was to be a man of humour, while humour was ‘regarded as the finest perfection of poetic genius’. Yet laughter had a troubled relation to sympathy and Romantic poetry, not least on account of its association with ridicule, and restive, disruptive energies. This chapter uncovers how writers resort to a language of feeling to try and account for the vagaries of ludicrous and inexplicable emotions. It thus establishes the animating tensions and strange incongruities at the heart of the laughter of feeling, where a laugh is both an articulation or embodiment of sympathy and a strange resistance to it. Laughter shows the complicated position of sympathy in the era as something to pursue and promote, and retain a sceptical, ironic sense of humour about.
Critical care pharmacist perspectives on optimal practice models and prioritization of professional activities: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Smith Zachary R , Palm Nicole M , Smith Susan E , Dixit Deepali , Keats Kelli , Ciapala Stephanie R , Tran Tien , Sikora Andrea , Heavner Mojdeh S
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Critical care pharmacists (CCPs) are essential members of the multidisciplinary critical care team. Professional activities of the CCP are outlined in a 2020 position paper on critical care pharmacy services. This study looks to characterize CCP perspectives for priorities in optimizing pharmacy practice models and professional activities.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional survey conducted from July 24 to September 20, 2023. A 41-question survey instrument was developed to assess 7 domains: demographics, CCP resource utilization, patient care, quality improvement, research and scholarship, training and education, and professional development. This voluntary survey was sent to members of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy’s Critical Care Practice and Research Network. The survey was open for a total of 6 weeks.

Results

There was a response rate of 20.7% (332 of 1,605 invitees), with 66.6% of respondents (n = 221) completing at least 90% of the survey questions. Most respondents were clinical specialists (58.2%) and/or practiced at an academic medical center (58.5%). Direct patient care, quality improvement and medication safety, and teaching and precepting were identified as the CCP activities of highest importance to CCPs. The CCP-to-patient ratios considered ideal were 1:11-15 (selected by 49.8% of respondents) and 1:16-20 (33.9% of respondents). The ideal percentage of time dedicated to direct patient care activities, as identified by survey respondents, was 50% (interquartile range, 40-50).

Conclusion

These findings highlight the professional activities viewed as having the highest priority by CCPs. Future research is needed to define optimal CCP practice models for the delivery of patient care in real-world settings.
Integration of protein sequence and protein–protein interaction data by hypergraph learning to identify novel protein complexes
Authors: Xia Simin , Li Dianke , Deng Xinru , Liu Zhongyang , Zhu Huaqing , Liu Yuan , Li Dong
Published: June 2024

Protein–protein interactions (PPIs) are the basis of many important biological processes, with protein complexes being the key forms implementing these interactions. Understanding protein complexes and their functions is critical for elucidating mechanisms of life processes, disease diagnosis and treatment and drug development. However, experimental methods for identifying protein complexes have many limitations. Therefore, it is necessary to use computational methods to predict protein complexes. Protein sequences can indicate the structure and biological functions of proteins, while also determining their binding abilities with other proteins, influencing the formation of protein complexes. Integrating these characteristics to predict protein complexes is very promising, but currently there is no effective framework that can utilize both protein sequence and PPI network topology for complex prediction. To address this challenge, we have developed HyperGraphComplex, a method based on hypergraph variational autoencoder that can capture expressive features from protein sequences without feature engineering, while also considering topological properties in PPI networks, to predict protein complexes. Experiment results demonstrated that HyperGraphComplex achieves satisfactory predictive performance when compared with state-of-art methods. Further bioinformatics analysis shows that the predicted protein complexes have similar attributes to known ones. Moreover, case studies corroborated the remarkable predictive capability of our model in identifying protein complexes, including 3 that were not only experimentally validated by recent studies but also exhibited high-confidence structural predictions from AlphaFold-Multimer. We believe that the HyperGraphComplex algorithm and our provided proteome-wide high-confidence protein complex prediction dataset will help elucidate how proteins regulate cellular processes in the form of complexes, and facilitate disease diagnosis and treatment and drug development. Source codes are available at https://github.com/LiDlab/HyperGraphComplex.
biotextgraph: graphical summarization of functional similarities from textual information
Authors: Sato Noriaki , Zhang Yao-zhong , Gu Zuguang , Imoto Seiya
Published: June 2024

Functional interpretation of biological entities such as differentially expressed genes is one of the fundamental analyses in bioinformatics. The task can be addressed by using biological pathway databases with enrichment analysis (EA). However, textual description of biological entities in public databases is less explored and integrated in existing tools and it has a potential to reveal new mechanisms. Here, we present a new R package biotextgraph for graphical summarization of omics’ textual description data which enables assessment of functional similarities of the lists of biological entities. We illustrate application examples of annotating gene identifiers in addition to EA. The results suggest that the visualization based on words and inspection of biological entities with text can reveal a set of biologically meaningful terms that could not be obtained by using biological pathway databases alone. The results suggest the usefulness of the package in the routine analysis of omics-related data. The package also offers a web-based application for convenient querying.

Availability and implementation

The package, documentation, and web server are available at: https://github.com/noriakis/biotextgraph.
The Sacrificed Children: Listening to the Voices of Former Young Carers Supporting Parents with Mental Illness
Authors: Yuan Esabella Hsiu-Wen , Ku Yeun-Wen
Published: June 2024

Numerous studies have indicated that parents who are affected by mental illness experience emotional/behavioural difficulties which can have major impacts on parenting and the child–parent relationship. However, research on the experiences of young carers living with a mentally ill parent and the adversity they face remains comparatively limited. This article reports findings from a qualitative and retrospective study undertaken with nineteen Taiwanese adults who were young carers of parents with mental illness to capture their entire childhood experiences. The study was guided by social constructionism with the aim to listen to the voices of former young carers and explore their sense of responsibility, their response to family and societal expectations and how these affected their lives. The study finds the young carers’ sense of responsibility was grounded on the principle of filial piety, which greatly influenced young carers not only actively in response to the parent’s needs but also in prioritising the parent’s demands. Participants felt responsibility and sacrifice interwoven in the context of their lives. Implications for social services and policy makers are suggested in order to meet the needs of young carers and their families.
The Social Media, Online and Digital Abuse and Harassment of Social Workers, Probation Officers and Social Work Students in Ireland: A National Survey
Authors: Burns Kenneth , Halvey Olwen , Ó Súilleabháin Fiachra , O’Callaghan Elaine , Coelho Gabriel
Published: June 2024

An estimated five billion people use social media globally. The digital world enables networking and community-building beyond geographical and jurisdictional boundaries, it can facilitate information-sharing and knowledge development, and facilitates speedy access and communications links. On the other hand, digital and social media platforms can also be sources and purveyors of hurt, discrimination, defamation, hatred, abuse, cyberbullying and disinformation. Their increased usage within professional practice has become a nascent area for scholarly debate and research. Our scoping literature search indicated that there are very few studies examining this issue within the profession. This article seeks to address a considerable gap in the research by reporting the findings from an exploratory study in Ireland focusing on social workers, probation officers and social work students. Three hundred seventy-nine participants completed an online survey on their experiences of using social media, with eighty-three (21.9 per cent) participants indicating that they had experienced online and digital abuse and harassment. Facebook, Twitter (now X), and email were the top three sources of abuse and harassment by platform.
Downregulation of the silent potassium channel Kv8.1 increases motor neuron vulnerability in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Huang Xuan , Lee Seungkyu , Chen Kuchuan , Kawaguchi Riki , Wiskow Ole , Ghosh Sulagna , Frost Devlin , Perrault Laura , Pandey Roshan , Klim Joseph R , Boivin Bruno , Hermawan Crystal , Livak Kenneth J , Geschwind Daniel H , Wainger Brian J , Eggan Kevin C , Bean Bruce P , Woolf Clifford J
Published: June 2024

While voltage-gated potassium channels have critical roles in controlling neuronal excitability, they also have non-ion–conducting functions. Kv8.1, encoded by the KCNV1 gene, is a ‘silent’ ion channel subunit whose biological role is complex since Kv8.1 subunits do not form functional homotetramers but assemble with Kv2 to modify its ion channel properties. We profiled changes in ion channel expression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patient–derived motor neurons carrying a superoxide dismutase 1(A4V) mutation to identify what drives their hyperexcitability. A major change identified was a substantial reduction of KCNV1/Kv8.1 expression, which was also observed in patient-derived neurons with C9orf72 expansion. We then studied the effect of reducing KCNV1/Kv8.1 expression in healthy motor neurons and found it did not change neuronal firing but increased vulnerability to cell death. A transcriptomic analysis revealed dysregulated metabolism and lipid/protein transport pathways in KCNV1/Kv8.1-deficient motor neurons. The increased neuronal vulnerability produced by the loss of KCNV1/Kv8.1 was rescued by knocking down Kv2.2, suggesting a potential Kv2.2-dependent downstream mechanism in cell death. Our study reveals, therefore, unsuspected and distinct roles of Kv8.1 and Kv2.2 in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis–related neurodegeneration.
SuperAging functional connectomics from resting-state functional MRI
Authors: Diamond Bram R , Sridhar Jaiashre , Maier Jessica , Martersteck Adam C , Rogalski Emily J
Published: June 2024

Understanding the relationship between functional connectivity (FC) of higher-order neurocognitive networks and age-related cognitive decline is a complex and evolving field of research. Decreases in FC have been associated with cognitive decline in persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). However, the contributions of FC have been less straightforward in typical cognitive aging. Some investigations suggest relatively robust FC within neurocognitive networks differentiates unusually successful cognitive aging from average aging, while others do not. Methodologic limitations in data processing and varying definitions of ‘successful aging’ may have contributed to the inconsistent results to date. The current study seeks to address previous limitations by optimized MRI methods to examine FC in the well-established SuperAging phenotype, defined by age and cognitive performance as individuals 80 and older with episodic memory performance equal to or better than 50-to-60-year-olds. Within- and between-network FC of large-scale neurocognitive networks were compared between 24 SuperAgers and 16 cognitively average older-aged control (OACs) with stable cognitive profiles using resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) from a single visit. Group classification was determined based on measures of episodic memory, executive functioning, verbal fluency and picture naming. Inclusion criteria required stable cognitive status across two visits. First, we investigated the FC within and between seven resting-state networks from a common atlas parcellation. A separate index of network segregation was also compared between groups. Second, we investigated the FC between six subcomponents of the default mode network (DMN), the neurocognitive network commonly associated with memory performance and disrupted in persons with ADRD. For each analysis, FCs were compared across groups using two-sample independent t-tests and corrected for multiple comparisons. There were no significant between-group differences in demographic characteristics including age, sex and education. At the group-level, within-network FC, between-network FC, and segregation measurements of seven large-scale networks, including subcomponents of the DMN, were not a primary differentiator between cognitively average aging and SuperAging phenotypes. Thus, FC within or between large-scale networks does not appear to be a primary driver of the exceptional memory performance observed in SuperAgers. These results have relevance for differentiating the role of FC changes associated with cognitive aging from those associated with ADRD.
Basal temporal language area revisited in Japanese language with a language function density map
Authors: Matoba Kento , Matsumoto Riki , Shimotake Akihiro , Nakae Takuro , Imamura Hisaji , Togo Masaya , Yamao Yukihiro , Usami Kiyohide , Kikuchi Takayuki , Yoshida Kazumichi , Matsuhashi Masao , Kunieda Takeharu , Miyamoto Susumu , Takahashi Ryosuke , Ikeda Akio
Published: June 2024

We revisited the anatomo-functional characteristics of the basal temporal language area (BTLA), first described by Lüders et al. (1986), using electrical cortical stimulation (ECS) in the context of Japanese language and semantic networks. We recruited 11 patients with focal epilepsy who underwent chronic subdural electrode implantation and ECS mapping with multiple language tasks for presurgical evaluation. A semiquantitative language function density map delineated the anatomo-functional characteristics of the BTLA (66 electrodes, mean 3.8 cm from the temporal tip). The ECS-induced impairment probability was higher in the following tasks, listed in a descending order: spoken-word picture matching, picture naming, Kanji word reading, paragraph reading, spoken-verbal command, and Kana word reading. The anterior fusiform gyrus (FG), adjacent anterior inferior temporal gyrus (ITG), and the anterior end where FG and ITG fuse, were characterized by stimulation-induced impairment during visual and auditory tasks requiring verbal output or not, whereas the middle FG was characterized mainly by visual input. The parahippocampal gyrus was the least impaired of the three gyri in the basal temporal area. We propose that the BTLA has a functional gradient, with the anterior part involved in amodal semantic processing and the posterior part, especially the middle FG in unimodal semantic processing.
Money and Its Body in the Social Positioning and Credit Perspectives: Review Article of Samuel A. Chambers’ Money has No Value
Authors: Pratten Stephen
Published: June 2024

A new and distinctive version of the credit theory of money is advanced by Samuel A. Chambers in his book Money Has No Value. The account of money sponsored by social positioning theory is an alternative perspective against which Chambers’ new credit theory can be productively compared. This review article draws out the differences between these competing theories of the nature of money. An examination of Chambers’ brief, largely dismissive, remarks on social positioning theory reveals a flawed conception of it. The social positioning theory of money is shown to be a coherent and explanatorily powerful account that is worthy of consideration alongside even the updated version of the credit theory supplied by Chambers.
An unusual case of two acute coronary syndrome episodes caused by allergic and non-allergic coronary artery dissection with potential coronary vasospasm association: a case report
Authors: Yoshino Tomohiro , Yunoki Kei , Miyahara Katsunori , Ida Jun , Oka Takefumi
Published: June 2024

Background

Type I variant Kounis syndrome is characterized by coronary spasm following an allergic or anaphylactic reaction. Coronary spasm is also recognized as a contributing factor in spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD).

Case summary

A 46-year-old woman presented to the emergency room with a chief complaint of chest discomfort following the ingestion of a steamed bun. A marked decrease in systolic blood pressure and a prominent rash on her forearms and groin suggested anaphylactic shock. Upon stabilization of vital signs, acute coronary syndrome (ACS) was suspected based on electrocardiogram findings and symptoms, prompting an emergency coronary angiography (CAG). The CAG revealed severe stenosis with coronary artery dissection in the right coronary artery (RCA), and a stent implantation was performed. Given the suspicion of type I variant Kounis syndrome, a spasm provocation test was performed, yielding a positive result. Six years later, she experienced chest discomfort while sleeping and was admitted to our emergency department. An electrocardiogram showed ST-segment elevation in leads II, III, and aVF. An emergency CAG identified a severely stenotic lesion with coronary artery dissection in the RCA, leading to a diagnosis of SCAD. Direct stenting was performed at the stenotic site. The patient was discharged following intensification of medication.

Discussion

This report describes a rare case of a middle-aged woman with two episodes of ACS caused by both allergic and non-allergic coronary artery dissection. These episodes suggest that a shared underlying coronary vasospasm in both conditions may be a common trigger for coronary artery dissection.
What’s in a name? Using species delimitation to inform conservation practice for Chinese giant salamanders (Andrias spp.)
Authors: Marr Melissa M , Hopkins Kevin , Tapley Benjamin , Borzée Amaël , Liang Zhiqiang , Cunningham Andrew A , Yan Fang , Wang Jie , Turvey Samuel T
Published: June 2024

Genetically-defined biodiversity units must align with practical conservation frameworks, and most conservation is conducted at the species level. Chinese giant salamanders have traditionally been interpreted as the single widespread species Andrias davidianus, but molecular studies have reinterpreted this taxon as representing multiple allopatric clades, and competing taxonomic hypotheses support different numbers of candidate species. We conducted species delimitation analyses using tree-based models (General Mixed Yule Coalescent, Poisson Tree Processes) and alignment-based models (Bayesian Phylogenetics and Phylogeography) to interpret diversification across Andrias within a comparative systematic framework, using 30 mitogenomes representing all recognised Chinese clades. Nearly all tested models provide support for at least seven statistically-resolved Chinese species-level lineages, and most provide support for nine species. Only four species have available names. Chinese Andrias populations are Critically Endangered, but unnamed species cannot be incorporated into national or international conservation frameworks and risk being excluded from recovery efforts. We urge taxonomists and conservation practitioners to focus more attention on the world’s largest amphibians, and non-standard taxonomic approaches may be required to name these species before they disappear.
Evaluating the potential for continuous update of enhanced forest inventory attributes using optical satellite data
Authors: Mulverhill Christopher , Coops Nicholas C , White Joanne C , Tompalski Piotr , Achim Alexis
Published: June 2024

Timely and detailed inventories of forest resources are of critical importance to guiding sustainable forest management decisions. As forests occur across large spatial extents, remotely sensed data are often used to augment conventional forest inventory measurements. When combined with field plot measurements, airborne laser scanning (ALS) data can be used to derive detailed enhanced forest inventories (EFIs), which provide spatially explicit and wall-to-wall characterizations of forest attributes. However, these EFIs represent a static point in time, and the dynamic nature of forests, coupled with increasing disturbance and uncertain future conditions, generates a need for the continuous updating of forest inventories. This study used a time series of optical satellite data to update an EFI generated for a large (~690 000 ha) forest management unit in Ontario, Canada, at a two-week interval. The two-phase approach involved first building a relationship between single-year EFI attributes (2018) and spectral variables representing within-year slope, amplitude, and trend of a time series (2000–21) of 14 spectral bands and indices. For each of the 20 strata representing different species groups and site productivity classes, a k-nearest neighbor (kNN) model was developed to impute seven common EFI attributes: aboveground biomass, basal area, stem density, Lorey’s height, quadratic mean diameter, and stem volume. Across all strata, models were generally accurate, with relative root mean square error ranging from 11.47% (canopy cover) to 31.82% (stem volume). In the second phase of the approach, models were applied across the entire study area at two-week intervals in order to assess the capacity of the methodology for characterizing change in EFI attributes over a three-year period. Outputs from this second phase demonstrated the potential of the approach for characterizing changes in EFI values in areas experiencing no change or non-stand replacing disturbances. The methods developed herein can be used for EFI update for any temporal interval, thereby enabling more informed decisions by forest managers to prescribe treatments or understand the current state of forest resources.
Evaluating Performance of Different RNA Secondary Structure Prediction Programs Using Self-cleaving Ribozymes
Authors: Qi Fei , Chen Junjie , Chen Yue , Sun Jianfeng , Lin Yiting , Chen Zipeng , Kapranov Philipp
Published: June 2024

Accurate identification of the correct, biologically relevant RNA structures is critical to understanding various aspects of RNA biology since proper folding represents the key to the functionality of all types of RNA molecules and plays pivotal roles in many essential biological processes. Thus, a plethora of approaches have been developed to predict, identify, or solve RNA structures based on various computational, molecular, genetic, chemical, or physicochemical strategies. Purely computational approaches hold distinct advantages over all other strategies in terms of the ease of implementation, time, speed, cost, and throughput, but they strongly underperform in terms of accuracy that significantly limits their broader application. Nonetheless, the advantages of these methods led to a steady development of multiple in silico RNA secondary structure prediction approaches including recent deep learning-based programs. Here, we compared the accuracy of predictions of biologically relevant secondary structures of dozens of self-cleaving ribozyme sequences using seven in silico RNA folding prediction tools with tasks of varying complexity. We found that while many programs performed well in relatively simple tasks, their performance varied significantly in more complex RNA folding problems. However, in general, a modern deep learning method outperformed the other programs in the complex tasks in predicting the RNA secondary structures, at least based on the specific class of sequences tested, suggesting that it may represent the future of RNA structure prediction algorithms.
Digestive Enzyme Activities in Mussel Mytilus californianus Endure Acute Heat Exposure in Air
Authors: Rankins Daniel , Connor Kwasi M , Bryant Emily E , Lopez Jonathan , Nieves Diana L , Moran Matthew , Wehrle Beck A
Published: June 2024

Synopsis

The mussel Mytilus californianus is an ecosystem engineer forming beds along the coastlines of Northeastern Pacific shores. As sessile organisms, they modulate their energy balance through valve movements, feeding, and digestive functionality. A recent study observed that activity of the digestive enzyme cellulase was higher than predicted in mussels high on the shore, where temperatures are characteristically high and food availability is limited compared to low-shore habitats. In the current study, we predicted that this scavenging behavior is induced to mitigate energy losses related to heat-shock responses—that cellulase and amylase will display hyperactivity for limited recourses in the face of aerial heating. In the laboratory, we acclimated mussels to three complex diets that differed in starch and cellulose composition, followed by two acute heat shocks (+8°C) in the laboratory. Results showed no hyperactivity of amylase and cellulase in heated mussels. These results differ from previous studies that showed lowered amylase activity following heat acclimation. This difference in amylase activity across heat-stress exposure time is important when analyzing mussel bed disturbances following heat waves that compromise energy balance or cause death within adult populations.
Antibiotic prescribing and bacterial infection in COVID-19 inpatients in Southeast Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chanapal Achiraya , Cheng Hung-Yung , Lambert Helen , Cong Wenjuan
Published: June 2024

Background

The prescribing of antibiotics to treat COVID-19 patients has been observed to occur frequently, often without clear justification. This trend raises concerns that it may have exacerbated antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Despite longstanding concerns over AMR in Southeast Asian countries, data on this issue are notably lacking.

Objectives

To explore the impact of COVID-19 on antibiotic prescribing, bacterial infection prevalence and common resistant pathogens in COVID-19 inpatients.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and ThaiJO (a Thai academic database) to identify studies conducted in ASEAN member countries and published between December 2019 and March 2023. Screening and data extraction were done by two independent reviewers, with results synthesized using random-effects meta-analyses and descriptive statistical analyses. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023454337).

Results

Of the 29 studies (19 750 confirmed COVID-19 cases) included for final analysis, the antibiotic prescribing rate was 62.0% (95%CI: 46.0%–76.0%) with a prescribing rate of 58.0% (21.0%–91.0%) in mild/moderate cases versus 91.0% (82.0%–98.0%) in severe/critical cases. Notably, 80.5% of antibiotics prescribed fall under the WHO AWaRe ‘Watch’ list, followed by ‘Access’ at 18.4% and ‘Reserve’ at 1.0%. The reported bacterial infection prevalence was 16.0% (7.0%–29.0%), with Acinetobacter baumannii being the most common resistant bacterium at 7.7%. Singapore was notable for its lower antibiotic prescribing rate of 17.0% and a lower bacterial infection rate of 10.0%.

Conclusions

High antibiotic prescribing rates, disproportionate to bacterial infections and varying practices for COVID-19 inpatients across countries highlight the urgent need for this region to collaborate to tackle and mitigate AMR.
Non-prescription sale and dispensing of antibiotics for prophylaxis in broiler chickens in Lusaka District, Zambia: findings and implications on one health
Authors: Mudenda Steward , Mulenga Karen Mubanga , Nyirongo Ruth , Chabalenge Billy , Chileshe Chikwanda , Daka Victor , M’kandawire Ethel , Jere Elimas , Muma John Bwalya
Published: June 2024

Background

The irrational use of antibiotics in humans and livestock has contributed to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study investigated the commonly sold and dispensed antibiotics for prophylaxis in broiler chickens in pharmacy and agro-veterinary shop personnel in the Lusaka District of Zambia.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2023 to October 2023 among 200 veterinary medicine dispensers in the Lusaka District of Zambia using a simulated farmer or mystery shopper approach. Data analysis was performed using IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23.0.

Results

Out of the 200 medicine outlets investigated, 23 (11.5%) were agro-veterinary shops, while 177 (88.5%) were community pharmacies. A total of 165 community pharmacies and agro-veterinary shops provided veterinary services in the Lusaka District and sold medicines without prescription giving a 100% non-prescription sale. Of the 178 medicines dispensed for prophylaxis, 88.5% were antibiotics, while 13.5% were vitamins. The most dispensed antibiotic drug for prophylaxis in broiler chickens was oxytetracycline (30.34%), amoxicillin (17.98%) and gentamicin/doxycycline (10.67%).

Conclusions

This study revealed a high sale and dispensing of antibiotics for prophylaxis in broiler chickens of which oxytetracycline, amoxicillin and gentamicin/doxycycline were commonly dispensed. There is a need for increased regulatory enforcement of selling antibiotics without a prescription as this may predispose poultry to the development of AMR and possible transmission of superbugs to humans and the environment. Educational interventions should be provided to community pharmacy and agro-veterinary personnel on adhering to antimicrobial stewardship practices when dispensing poultry antibiotics.
The inhibition mechanism of co-cultured probiotics on biofilm formation of Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Zhang Chaolei , Wang Chao , Dai Jianying , Xiu Zhilong
Published: June 2024

Aims

Klebsiella pneumoniae, an important opportunistic pathogen of nosocomial inflection, is known for its ability to form biofilm. The purpose of the current study is to assess how co- or mono-cultured probiotics affect K. pneumoniae’s ability to produce biofilms and investigate the potential mechanisms by using a polyester nonwoven chemostat and a Caco-2 cell line.

Methods and Results

Compared with pure cultures of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus sake, the formation of K. pneumoniae biofilm was remarkably inhibited by the mixture of L. rhamnosus, L. sake, and Bacillus subtilis at a ratio of 5:5:1 by means of qPCR and FISH assays. In addition, Lactobacillus in combination with B. subtilis could considerably reduce the adherence of K. pneumoniae to Caco-2 cells by using inhibition, competition, and displacement assays. According to the RT-PCR assay, the adsorption of K. pneumoniae to Caco-2 cells was effectively inhibited by the co-cultured probiotics, leading to significant reduction in the expression of proinflammatory cytokines induced by K. pneumoniae. Furthermore, the HPLC and RT-PCR analyses showed that the co-cultured probiotics were able to successfully prevent the expression of the biofilm-related genes of K. pneumoniae by secreting plenty of organic acids as well as the second signal molecule (c-di-GMP), resulting in inhibition on biofilm formation.

Conclusion

Co-culture of L. sake, L. rhamnosus, and B. subtilis at a ratio of 5:5:1 could exert an antagonistic effect on the colonization of pathogenic K. pneumoniae by down-regulating the expression of biofilm-related genes. At the same time, the co-cultured probiotics could effectively inhibit the adhesion of K. pneumoniae to Caco-2 cells and block the expression of proinflammatory cytokines induced by K. pneumoniae.
Effect of an organic acid blend as an antibiotic alternative on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, intestinal barrier function, and fecal microbiota in weaned piglets
Authors: Cai Long , Zhao Ying , Chen Wenning , Li Yanpin , Han Yanming , Zhang Bo , Pineda Lane , Li Xilong , Jiang Xianren
Published: June 2024

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary organic acid blend on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, intestinal barrier function, and fecal microbiota in weaned piglets compared with antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs). A total of 90 weaned crossbred barrows (24 ± 1 d of age) with an initial body weight of 7.40 kg were allocated into three experimental treatments. Each treatment consisted of six replicate pens, with five piglets housed in each pen. The dietary treatments included the basal diet (NC), the basal diet supplemented with antibiotics (PC), and the basal diet supplemented with organic acid blend (OA). On day 42, one piglet per pen was randomly selected for plasma and small intestinal sample collection. The results showed that dietary AGP significantly improved growth performance and reduced diarrhea incidence compared to the NC group (P < 0.05). Dietary OA tended to increase body weight on day 42 (P = 0.07) and average daily gain from days 0 to 42 (P = 0.06) and reduce diarrhea incidence (P = 0.05). Dietary OA significantly increased plasma catalase (CAT) activity and decreased the plasma concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-8, and IL-6, which were accompanied by upregulated the relative mRNA abundance of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) in comparison to that in the NC group (P < 0.05). Moreover, pigs fed the OA diet significantly increased the ratio of villus height to crypt depth and upregulated the relative expression of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and Claudin1 gene in the jejunum compared to the NC group (P < 0.05). Interestingly, dietary AGP or OA did not affect the fecal microbiota structure or volatile fatty acid content (P > 0.05). In conclusion, our results suggested that dietary OA supplementation could improve growth performance and antioxidant capacity and protect the intestinal barrier of weaned piglets, therefore, it has the potential to be considered as an alternative to AGP in the pig industry.
Parasitic behavior and developmental morphology of Mesocomys trabalae (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae), a promising parasitoid of the Japanese giant silkworm Caligula japonica (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae)
Authors: Wang Run-Zhi , Chen Xu , Zhou Hang , Tariq Haneef , Zang Lian-Sheng , Chen Yong-Ming
Published: June 2024

The egg parasitoid Mesocomys trabalae Yao, Yang, and Zhao is used as a biocontrol agent against the emerging defoliator pest Caligula japonica Moore in East Asia. It has been proven that the eggs of Antheraea pernyi Guérin-Méneville can be used as a factitious host for the mass production of M. trabalae. We examined the parasitic behavior and morphological characteristics of the developmental stages of M. trabalae reared on A. pernyi eggs. The parasitic behavior of M. trabalae encompasses 10 steps, involving searching, antennation, locating the oviposition site, drilling, probing, detecting, oviposition, host feeding, grooming, and resting, with the oviposition step further divided into 3 stages. We determined that the parasitoid released an egg during the second stage of the oviposition step, while her body remained in a relatively static state. Among all the steps in parasitic behavior, probing occupied the longest time, accounting for 26.33% of the entire parasitism process. It was followed by oviposition (15.88%), drilling (15.10%), antennation (13.09%), detecting (10.79%), host feeding (10.02%), and the remaining steps, each occupying less than 5.00% of the total time in steps. The pre-emergence of adult M. trabalae comprised of 4 stages: egg (0–1 day), larva (2–6 days), prepupa (7–11 days), pupa (12–20 days), followed by the development into an adult, and it usually took 20–22 days to develop from an egg into an adult at 25°C. This study advances our understanding of the biology of Mesocomys parasitoids and their mass-rearing for use in augmentation programs.
Risk perception in long-term evacuees of Futaba town, Fukushima: a cross-sectional study reveals greater concerns outside the prefecture, 12 years after the accident
Authors: Xiao Xu , Orita Makiko , Kashiwazaki Yuya , Matsunaga Hitomi , Win Thu Zar , Lochard Jacques , Takamura Noboru
Published: June 2024

For over 12 years since the 2011 East Japan Earthquake, the decontamination of radioactive materials is still incomplete. Although evacuation orders had been lifted in ~15% of Futaba town, the site of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, by August 2022, anxiety regarding the effects of nuclear radiation persists among evacuees, and their intention to return (ITR) remains low. As of August 2023, only 90 residents lived there. As the only town with government functions relocated outside Fukushima Prefecture, Futaba has more residents who evacuated outside the prefecture. Although numerous factors affect risk perception and ITR to the place of previous residence, the impact of evacuation destination on risk perception remains unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of evacuation destination on radiation risk perception. In 2022, a survey was conducted on 404 evacuees aged >18 years. The responses were compared between groups outside and inside Fukushima using the chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Significant relationships were found between the evacuation destination and risk perception of genetic effects in the next generation (odds ratio [OR] = 1.92, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15–3.20) and of the health effects of radiation (OR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.10–2.84), which were both higher in those who had evacuated outside Fukushima. These findings stress the importance of evacuation destination choice and information access for evacuees’ risk perception. Enhanced education and support efforts are necessary to help evacuees not only in Fukushima but also throughout Japan.
The transcription factor OsSPL9 endows rice with copper deficiency resilience
Authors: Wang Wujian , Luo Le , Shi Huichao , Song Yuxinrui , Wang Junjie , Chen Chen , Shen Zhenguo , Rouached Hatem , Zheng Luqing
Published: June 2024

Copper (Cu) is a crucial micronutrient essential for the growth and development of plants. Rice exhibits remarkable resistance to Cu deficiency, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well understood. In this study, we reveal that the plant’s ability to withstand Cu deficiency is orchestrated by a transcription factor known as OsSPL9. We have demonstrated that OsSPL9 functions as a central regulator of Cu homeostasis. Disrupting OsSPL9 through knockout significantly reduced the plant’s tolerance to Cu deficiency. As a result, the spl9 mutants exhibited reduced Cu accumulation in their shoots when compared with wild-type plants. This reduction was linked to a disruption in the transport of Cu from older leaves to younger ones. Furthermore, we show that OsSPL9 directly bound to GTAC motifs in the promoters of key genes involved in Cu uptake and transport, as well as Cu-miRNAs, and enhanced their transcription under Cu-deficient conditions. Overall, our findings shed light on the molecular basis of rice resilience to Cu deficiency stress and place the transcription factor OsSPL9 as a master regulator of this response.
The International Law Commission’s Draft Conclusions
Authors: Tladi Dire
Published: June 2024

This chapter serves to introduce the book by, first, describing the importance of the subject-matter of the book, peremptory norms of general international law (jus cogens), and describing the role of the Commission in clarifying its contours. In this context, the chapter describes the main contestation surrounding jus cogens and how this contestation manifests in different aspects of jus cogens, i.e. identification and legal consequences. It then describes the Commission’s central role in the mainstreaming of jus cogens, tracing this role from the Commission’s work on the law of treaties, when jus cogens had little pedigree in practice and judicial decisions, to its more recent work, such as the Commission’s work on State Responsibility. With respect to the ILC work on the adoption of the Draft Conclusions, the chapter describes the process leading to the inclusion of the topic on the agenda, paying particular attention to the objections raised against the inclusion. It also describes the particular methodology that the Commission decided to employ in studying the topic. An overview of the Draft Conclusions is also provided. Finally, the chapter provides the basic structure of the book.
The Scope of the Draft Conclusions
Authors: Tladi Dire
Published: June 2024

This chapter is concerned with Draft Conclusion 1 of the Draft Conclusions which covers the scope. The scope provision describes the two aspects that are the subject of the Draft Conclusions, namely, the identification and legal consequences of jus cogens. In describing what is covered in the Draft Conclusions, the chapter also describes what is not covered. In particular, it explains that the approach adopted by the Commission is a methodological approach which did not seek to address the content of jus cogens. There are several consequences of this methodological approach and these are described in the chapter. Also excluded from the Draft Conclusions is regional jus cogens and the chapter explains and provides the context for this exclusion. Finally, the chapter describes the approach of the Commission to actors covered, i.e. the extent to which the Draft Conclusion applies to actors other than States.
The Second CriterionAcceptance and Recognition by the International Community as a Norm from which no Derogation is Permitted
Authors: Tladi Dire
Published: June 2024

Chapter 6 addresses the second criterion, which is described as a composite criterion because it contains several elements. Because these elements are addressed in different Draft Conclusions, Chapter 6 itself covers two Draft Conclusions, namely Draft Conclusion 6, on acceptance and recognition and Draft Conclusion 7, on the international community of States as a whole. With respect to Draft Conclusion 6, the chapter describes and assesses the nature of the criterion and what separates it from acceptance in the form of opinio juris and recognition for the purposes of general principles of law. The focus of the discussion on Draft Conclusion 7 is on the threshold, both qualitative and quantitative, for acceptance and recognition.
The Second Criterion
Authors: Tladi Dire
Published: June 2024

Chapter 7 addresses the evidence necessary to demonstrate acceptance and recognition. These are considered in two Draft Conclusions, namely Draft Conclusions 8 and 9. Draft Conclusion 8 concerns the form of evidence for acceptance and recognition, while Draft Conclusion 9 concerns subsidiary means for the determination of jus cogens. The Draft Conclusions identify two types of evidence, the primary forms of evidence and subsidiary means. This chapter will address them both. Some of the issues analysed in the chapter include the role played by courts and various expert bodies, on which reliance is often placed, in the determination of the jus cogens status of a norm. The role of scholarly writings is similarly assessed.
Particular Consequences of Jus Cogens Norms
Authors: Tladi Dire
Published: June 2024

Chapter 11 addresses particular consequences of jus cogens. There are two types of ‘particular’ consequences addressed in this chapter. These are particular consequences of serious breaches of jus cogens, addressed in Draft Conclusion 19, and particular consequences of specific norms of jus cogens, which are the subject of a without prejudice clause in Draft Conclusion 22. Draft Conclusion 19, which is based on the Articles of State Responsibility, raised two main interrelated questions, which were the subject of contention. The first of these is whether the consequences addressed therein apply only to serious breaches as determined by the Commission in 2001, or whether they can now be said to apply to all breaches. The second is whether these consequences can be said to reflect customary international law. Both of these questions are analysed and evaluated in this chapter. Draft Conclusion 22 seems like a rather innocuous provision, yet it has a tumultuous history and the basic text was intended to address rather complex issues concerning jus cogens. The chapter goes behind the text and Commentary to describe the choice of Commission to address these important questions through a without prejudice clause.