bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can Thinning Foster Forest Genetic Adaptation to Drought? A Demo‐Genetic Modelling Approach With Disturbance Regimes
Authors: Fririon Victor , Davi Hendrik , Oddou‐Muratorio Sylvie , Ligot Gauthier , Lefèvre François
Published: December 2024

In managed populations—whether for production or conservation—management practices can interfere with natural eco‐evolutionary processes, providing opportunities to mitigate immediate impacts of disturbances or enhance selection on tolerance traits. Here, we used a modelling approach to explore the interplay and feedback loops among drought regimes, natural selection and tree thinning in naturally regenerated monospecific forests. We conducted a simulation experiment spanning three nonoverlapping generations with the individual‐based demo‐genetic model Luberon2. Luberon2 integrates forest dynamics processes driving survival and mating success, including tree growth, competition, drought impacts and regeneration, with genetic variation in quantitative traits related to these processes. We focused on two variable traits: individual vigour, determining diameter growth potential without stress as the deviation from average stand growth, and individual sensitivity to drought stress as the slope of the relationship between diameter growth and drought stress level. We simulated simplified thinning scenarios, tailored to even‐aged stands. Considering plausible genetic variation and contrasting drought regimes, the predicted evolutionary rates for both traits aligned with documented rates in wild plant and animal populations. Thinning considerably reduced natural selective pressures caused by competition and drought compared to unthinned stands. However, the conventional thinning practice of retaining the larger trees resulted in indirect anthropogenic selection that enhanced genetic gain in vigour and lowered sensitivity by up to 30%. More intensive thinning aimed at reducing drought stress by reducing stand density hampered the selection against sensitivity to drought, potentially hindering long‐term adaptation. Conversely, avoiding the early, nonselective thinning step—thereby promoting both natural and anthropogenic selection—ultimately resulted in better stand performance while maintaining long‐term evolvability. This study emphasises the potential of evolution‐oriented forestry strategies to combine drought stress mitigation with genetic adaptation. It provides general insights into how population management, disturbance regimes and eco‐evolutionary responses interfere, aiding sustainable decision‐making amid environmental uncertainties.
Sustainable Harvesting Alone Cannot Prevent Decline of the Green Crab Fishery in Portugal
Authors: Monteiro João N. , Roa‐Ureta Rubén , Ovelheiro Andreia , Teodósio Maria Alexandra , Leitão Francisco
Published: December 2024

Estuarine fisheries are of high regional socio‐economic importance worldwide, by providing an important livelihood for many families. The Portuguese green crab (Carcinus maenas) fishery was assessed using a socio‐economic assessment to understand the importance of the fishery and a stock assessment analysis to determine the exploitation status of the fishery during 1960–2020. Fisher knowledge revealed that crab fishing was a family affair that provided a livelihood for hundreds of families directly targeting crabs, with catches exported to Spain during 1960–1990s, and in later years, crab demand increased as bait for octopus fishing. Despite its socio‐economic importance, the fishery was regulated without a scientific basis and economic value of crabs remained similar through time. Annual landings never exceeded sustainable catch rates, but engagement in the crab fishery declined due to low economic value of crabs compared to other fisheries and regulatory hurdles. Consequently, the number of fishermen declined to 20–30 elderly men fishing on the largest estuaries, with the fishery currently on the verge of extinction. Fishers pointed to a reduction in the minimum landing size and enforcement of crab‐specific trap regulations as ways to avert fishery decline. Such changes would stimulate recruitment of new crab fishers, while reducing fishing pressure on other estuarine resources through fisheries diversification.
Nonunidirectional Habitat Changes Associated With Global Climate Change: The Example of the Indo‐Pacific King Mackerel (Scomberomorus guttatus) in the Taiwan Strait
Authors: Mondal Sandipan , Ray Aratrika , Ito Shin‐Ichi , Osuka Kennedy Edeye , Lee Ming‐An , Lu Quang‐Huy
Published: December 2024

Climate change poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems, potentially altering the distribution of marine organisms and causing many species to migrate towards the poles. The habitat changes of species targeted for fishing are likely to affect fishing activities and the livelihoods of coastal communities. Hence, the present study analyzed the distribution of Indo‐Pacific king mackerel (IKM) in the Taiwan Strait (TS) by using ensemble modeling and considering two representative concentration pathway (RCP) scenarios (2.6 and 8.5) to assess the implications of predicted climate change. Four species distribution models incorporating sea surface height, chlorophyll, salinity, and temperature were used as inputs to create an ensemble model that replicated IKM distribution under current ocean conditions. The ensemble habitat model does not show monotonic decrease of IKM habitat but reveals more complex change in the 21st century with a hump around 2050. By end of the century, IKM is predicted to decline under RCP 8.5 scenario more seriously than under RCP 2.6. The study highlights the need for adaptation measures in managing IKM fisheries in the TS, emphasizing the importance of considering non‐unidirectional habitat changes in the global oceans as well.
The need for a second transurethral resection in high‐risk non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer based on the Vesicle Imaging–Reporting and Data System
Authors: Nakamura Yuki , Yoshida Soichiro , Arita Yuki , Takeshita Ryo , Kimura Koichiro , Kobayashi Masaki , Fujiwara Motohiro , Ishikawa Yudai , Fukuda Shohei , Waseda Yuma , Tanaka Hajime , Jinzaki Masahiro , Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: December 2024

Background

The efficacy of Vesical Imaging–Reporting and Data System (VI‐RADS) for the second transurethral resection (TUR) has not been adequately validated. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of the VI‐RADS for high‐risk patients with non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) who are candidates for a second TUR.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 116 patients who received magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) prior to an initial TUR and underwent a second TUR for a diagnosis of high‐risk NMIBC at the initial TUR. MRI images were retrospectively classified according to VI‐RADS. Second TUR outcomes and recurrence‐free and progression‐free survival rates were compared with VI‐RADS scores.

Results

Ninety‐nine (91%) patients were diagnosed with T1 bladder cancer at the initial TUR. At the second TUR, residual cancer was found in 53 (49%) cases, including five (4.6%) cases of muscle invasion. With a median follow‐up of 41 months, the 2‐year bladder recurrence‐free survival rate was 71% and the 2‐year progression‐free rate was 85%. By two radiologists' consensus, 30 (28%)/49 (45%)/16 (15%)/10 (9.2%)/4 (3.7%) cases were classified as VI‐RADS 1/2/3/4/5, respectively. Of five pT2 upstage cases, three were VI‐RADS 1, one was VI‐RADS 2, and one was VI‐RADS 3. There was no significant association between VI‐RADS and cancer residual rate and pT2 upstage rate in second TUR outcomes, and recurrence‐free and progression‐free survival rates.

Conclusion

In high‐risk NMIBCs, a certain number of residual cancers and pT2 upstage cases exist after the initial TUR, and a second TUR should be performed regardless of VI‐RADS scores.
Robust solutions via optimisation and predictive process monitoring for the scheduling of the interventional radiology procedures
Authors: Cunzolo Matteo Di , Ronzani Massimiliano , Aringhieri Roberto , Francescomarino Chiara Di , Ghidini Chiara , Guastalla Alberto , Sulis Emilio
Published: December 2024

Interventional radiology (IR) is an increasingly used medical specialty relying on the possibilities offered by medical imaging guidance technologies to perform minimally invasive procedures (both diagnostic and therapeutic) through very small incisions or body orifices. Although the operative context is quite similar to that of the classical operating room (OR) literature, to the best of our knowledge management problems arising in the IR operative context never appeared in the healthcare management literature. This is even more true for studies that combine the OR approach with automatic extraction of information from real hospital health record data as in the present study. Two specific features characterise our case study with respect to the traditional OR literature: due to the Italian legislation, the anaesthetist (usually in a very limited number) must be present for the entire duration of the procedure (), and the IR does not have its own ward but receives inpatients from different wards (). The aim of this paper is to introduce a novel approach to determine a robust solution for our case study problem addressing both features and . Our approach is based on the interplay between optimisation and predictive process monitoring (PPM) models. The obtained results show that the proposed approach produces schedules that achieve higher usage rate, lower overtime and more patients operated on than the original schedule. We also show that the integration of PPM models within the optimisation workflow improves the quality of the output schedule with respect to the standard one‐shot optimisation.
Preparation and investigation of 2D/2D black phosphorene/ZnIn2S4 Z‐scheme photocatalysts for enhanced hydrogen evolution
Authors: Wang Mingzhang , Yang Jie , Zhang Yifei , Shao Chenyang , Xing Yan
Published: December 2024

Heterojunction photocatalytic materials show great promise in hydrogen production from water decomposition under visible light. The selection of components in the heterojunction and the type of heterojunction constructed directly determine the hydrogen production efficiency. In this study, black phosphorene (BP), which has a broad visible light absorption range, and ZnIn2S4 (ZIS), with a suitable band structure, are chosen to design new heterojunction photocatalysts. Through an ultrasound‐assisted solvothermal method, a BP/ZIS heterojunction with a unique layered 2D/2D structure is successfully synthesized. Comprehensive characterization and calculation have elucidated the microstructure and band structure of BP and ZIS, further confirming the formation of a Z‐scheme heterojunction. Such a novel BP/ZIS heterojunction exhibits a remarkable photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 1317 µmol·h−1·g−1, making a 3.35‐fold increase compared to ZIS and superior performance over BP. This enhancement in photocatalytic activity of BP/ZIS heterojunction can be primarily attributed to the enhanced light harvesting and carrier utilization resulting from the formation of the Z‐scheme heterojunction. This work provides new insights for the development of efficient photocatalysts for hydrogen production.
Invisible Hand of Sampling for Management: Underlying Needs to Survey a Threatened Seabird Can Bias Aggregated Data
Authors: Baumbusch Ryan , Duarte Adam , Peterson James T.
Published: December 2024

Aim

Surveying for a species of concern ahead of proposed activities that alter its habitat is routine practice in conservation and management. Such surveys may accumulate large datasets that could further elucidate trends in abundance and distribution. However, the as‐needed surveying of proposed activities may impart a sample site selection bias on the data if used for another purpose. Management of a threatened, forest‐nesting seabird offered an example of this. Here we assessed how resource management planning and survey requirements can bias clearance monitoring survey data collected prior to proposed timber harvests, if those data are used for other purposes.

Location

Oregon and Washington, USA.

Taxon

Marbled Murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus).

Methods

To assess how timber planning and other factors influenced marbled murrelet survey location selection, we used logistic regression models to examine habitat associations of marbled murrelet survey sites (n = 9178) encompassing proposed timber harvests, and the survey stations (n = 38,923) therein, across the murrelet's inland range in Washington and Oregon, USA between 1989 and 2021. We then simulated the effect this selective sampling might have on assessments of occupancy trends.

Results

Most habitat characteristics considered did influence where surveys were located, with distance to roads often being the strongest predictor of survey location. The strength of selection for each covariate changed over time, such that a habitat characteristic strongly influenced location selection in a year but was less influential in another year. The simulation analysis suggested that the non‐random selection of survey sites could profoundly bias assessments of occupancy trends.

Conclusions

When using these clearance monitoring survey data– or any data–beyond their original purpose, careful consideration should be given to the scope of inference provided and analytical methods used, to ensure that observed trends are the product of biological processes and not biased by sampling artefacts.
In situ infestation of sea trout Salmo trutta with salmon louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis reveals parasite‐induced behavioral modifications
Authors: Strøm John Fredrik , Nilsen Rune , Bøhn Thomas , Serra‐Llinares Rosa Maria , Skarðhamar Jofrid , Karlsen Ørjan , Bjørn Pål Arne
Published: December 2024

In areas with high densities of salmon farming, spillover of the ectoparasitic salmon louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis poses a major threat to wild anadromous salmonids. By combining experimentally salmon louse infestation (mean ± standard deviation = 0.25 ± 0.25 lice g−1 fish) with acoustic telemetry, we studied the behavior of wild first‐time migrating sea trout Salmo trutta (n = 58, fork length = 138–204 mm) from late June to September in a marine area with naturally low infestation pressure. We observed that a similar proportion of sea trout from the control and exposed groups returned to fresh water both temporarily and permanently. However, sea trout from the control group spent nearly twice the amount of time in the fjord before first freshwater detection compared to exposed individuals (32 vs. 17 days), and statistical models indicated a dose–response of louse burden on the timing of freshwater return. This effect was combined with evidence of negative impacts of salmon louse burden on overall marine residency. Sea trout predominantly utilized waters within their natal fjord during the marine migration, with exposed fish spending significantly more time close to their home river than sea trout from the control group. In summary, the behavioral modifications caused by salmon lice could reduce individual marine growth, increase long‐term mortality, and ultimately harm recruitment at the population level.
Climate risk analysis: Definitions, measurements, strategies, and sectoral impacts
Authors: Huang Shupei , Vigne Samuel , Yao Dingjun , Xu Xin
Published: December 2024

The paper reviews and integrates the definitions, measurement techniques of climate risk, and its economic, social, and financial impacts. It systematizes the various dimensions of climate risk, including climate transition risks and physical risks, and how these risks are defined and understood in the current literature. The paper compiles the methodologies used to measure climate risks, highlighting innovative approaches such as big data analytics, machine learning, and complex network models. Additionally, it assesses the societal impacts of climate change, examining how different sectors, including agriculture, energy, transportation, and finance, are affected. By synthesizing findings from a broad range of studies, this review provides a detailed understanding of the multifaceted nature of climate risk and offers insights into effective risk management strategies. Significantly, this research serves as a crucial theoretical foundation for policymakers in formulating policies to combat climate change and for industry practitioners in devising investment strategies, thus providing practical implications that are essential for mitigating the adverse effects of climate change on society. The paper aims to be a valuable resource for those working in this area.
Weak effect of temperature fluctuations on the invasion of Raphidiopsis raciborskii (Cyanobacteria) in experimental plankton microcosms
Authors: Weithoff Guntram , Stefan Marley B.
Published: December 2024

Biological invasions are a major threat for many aquatic ecosystems. In contrast to higher plants and animals, microbial invasions are less obvious and more difficult to detect. One of the most prominent microbial invaders is the cyanobacterium Raphidiopsis raciborskii. To better understand the environmental conditions favoring its invasion success, we studied invasion under three different temperature regimes (one constant and two variable) in experimental plankton communities by invader addition experiments. To account for intraspecific variation, we tested four different strains of R. raciborskii and the mixture of them. Invasion success of R. raciborskii was higher under constant temperature conditions than under fluctuations suggesting that the resident species responded faster to the environmental changes than the invaders. We observed a clear strain‐specific effect, demonstrating that strain identity is an important determinant of invasion success. The interaction of temperature fluctuations and strain identity indicates that, among the tested strains, the response to the temperature regimes varied. The mixture of all four strains did not perform better than the best single strain showing no sign of a positive genetic diversity effect. In our experiment, environmental fluctuations did not widen a window of opportunity for the invasion of R. raciborskii.
Smooth Muscle Mechanosensitivity Generates and Maintains Pressure Gradients Across the Intestine
Authors: Amedzrovi Agbesi Richard J. , Chassatte Lucas , Chevalier Nicolas R.
Published: December 2024

Background

The gut, the ureter, or the Fallopian tube all transport biological fluids by generating trains of propagating smooth muscle constrictions collectively known as peristalsis. These tubes connect body compartments at different pressures. We extend here Poiseuille's experiments on liquid flow in inert tubes to an active, mechanosensitive tube: the intestine.

Methods

We use as a miniature myogenic peristaltic pump model, the fetal chicken gut, and measured the flow and contractile wave propagation as a function of the initially applied pressures and pressure gradients. We dissect the molecular pathways of smooth muscle mechanosensitivity by measuring the force generated by gut rings in different pharmacological conditions.

Results

We demonstrate that smooth muscle contractions in response to stretch or pressure is mediated by L‐type Ca2+ channels and IP3 receptors. We show that this positive‐feedback mechanosensitive behavior can spontaneously generate pressure gradients across gut segments initially subject to equal pressure; this same mechanism tends to stabilize initially applied pressure gradients; it can act jointly or compete with the pressure gradient induced by directional peristaltic waves. We demonstrate that high pressure differentials can reverse the physiological propagation direction of contractile waves imparted by interstitial cell of Cajal pacemaker activity. We find that flow rate increases with tube length, but that the maximum pressure differential generated depends solely on smooth muscle contractile force and on the initial resting pressure applied inside the organ.

Conclusions

We provide fundamental mechanical and hydrodynamic insight into the myogenic mechanisms of transport in the gastrointestinal tract. We scale up our results to other human peristaltic organs and discuss their implications for pathophysiology of intestinal obstruction, vesicoureteral reflux and endometriosis.
New York State Climate Impacts Assessment Chapter 06: Energy
Authors: Meier Sandra , Marcotullio Peter J. , Carney Peter , DesRoches Susanne , Freedman Jeff , Golan Maureen , Gundlach Justin , Parisian Jordi , Sheehan Peter , Slade William V. , Teron Lemir , Wei Ke , Stevens Amanda
Published: December 2024

Energy plays an integral role in New Yorkers’ lives. It powers the economy, moves people and goods, keeps homes and workplaces at a livable temperature, and runs critical infrastructure that keeps people healthy and safe. Reliable energy systems are easy to take for granted, but many aspects of these systems are vulnerable to weather and climate hazards. This chapter discusses how climate change is affecting and will increasingly affect New York State's energy supply, delivery, and end uses. It provides insights into current and future climate vulnerabilities as New York's energy system transitions to clean energy sources. This assessment also highlights opportunities to adapt current and future energy systems and to build resilience to climate impacts.
New York State Climate Impacts Assessment Chapter 08: Society and Economy
Authors: Aguirre‐Torres Luis , Leichenko Robin , Austerman Mary , Balk Deborah , Bond Hallie E. , Breen Riobart E. , Burgy David , John Cassandra , Parker Franchelle , Schlather Kenneth , Stevens Amanda
Published: December 2024

Climate change is affecting or will affect the lives of every resident of New York State. This chapter examines the impacts of climate change on five critical areas in the state: populations and migration, the economy, education, culture, and government. The chapter highlights differential vulnerabilities among the state's regions, populations, workers, and businesses, paying particular attention to issues of equity and environmental justice.
New York State Climate Impacts Assessment Chapter 04: Buildings
Authors: Rajkovich Nicholas B. , Brown Carrie , Azaroff Illya , Backus Erik , Clarke Shannon , Enriquez Jared , Greenaway Bethany , Holtan Meghan T. , Lewis Jamal , Ornektekin Ozgem , Schoeman Laurie , Stevens Amanda
Published: December 2024

New York State has nearly 5.3 million buildings, and all of them are vulnerable in some way to the impacts of climate change. Understanding these impacts is critical, because risks to buildings not only threaten individual lives but also pose threats to community‐level resilience. This chapter examines the impacts of climate change on buildings and, by extension, the people and communities they shelter and support. It also highlights building types and populations that are at particular risk and presents adaptation strategies to protect the state's existing and future building stock from climate impacts.
New York State Climate Impacts Assessment Chapter 05: Ecosystems
Authors: Hess Sheila S. , Burns Douglas A. , Boudinot F. Garrett , Brown‐Lima Carrie , Corwin Jason , Foppert John D. , Robinson George R. , Rose Kevin C. , Schlesinger Matthew D. , Shuford Rebecca L. , Bradshaw Drake , Stevens Amanda
Published: December 2024

The people of New York have long benefited from the state's diversity of ecosystems, which range from coastal shorelines and wetlands to extensive forests and mountaintop alpine habitat, and from lakes and rivers to greenspaces in heavily populated urban areas. These ecosystems provide key services such as food, water, forest products, flood prevention, carbon storage, climate moderation, recreational opportunities, and other cultural services. This chapter examines how changes in climatic conditions across the state are affecting different types of ecosystems and the services they provide, and considers likely future impacts of projected climate change. The chapter emphasizes how climate change is increasing the vulnerability of ecosystems to existing stressors, such as habitat fragmentation and invasive species, and highlights opportunities for New Yorkers to adapt and build resilience.
New York State Climate Impacts Assessment Chapter 07: Human Health and Safety
Authors: Barnes Janice , Sheffield Perry , Graber Nathan , Jessel Sonal , Lanza Kevin , Limaye Vijay S. , Morrow Faustenia , Sauthoff Anjali , Schmeltz Michael , Smith Shavonne , Stevens Amanda
Published: December 2024

New Yorkers face a multitude of health and safety risks that are exacerbated by a changing climate. These risks include direct impacts from extreme weather events and other climate hazards, as well as indirect impacts occurring through a chain of interactions. Physical safety, physical health, and mental health are all part of the equation—as are the many nonclimate factors that interact with climate change to influence health outcomes. This chapter provides an updated assessment of all these topics at the intersection of climate change, public health and safety, and equity in the state of New York. Key findings are presented below.
De jure and de facto property tax rates in large US cities
Authors: Berry Christopher
Published: December 2024

Scholars and policymakers have long been interested in measuring the relative property tax burden across cities. Most existing estimates rely on statutory rates and other official metrics to compute the prevailing tax rate in a city. Yet, a crucial feature of the property tax is that it is levied on estimated values rather than transaction prices. Without accounting for the quality of the estimated values it is impossible to know the effective tax rate. In this paper, I compute effective tax rates from micro data on property sales, aligning the tax due in the sale year with the sale price. I compare the observed effective tax rates with the best available estimates based on official sources. Relative to prior estimates, I find that effective tax rates are (a) generally lower, due to lags in estimated values; (b) widely varying even within the same city, due to errors in estimated values; and (c) usually regressive, due to biases in estimated values. I discuss the implications of these findings for taxpayers and policymakers.
Exploring barriers and facilitators to blood donation in secondary schools in Malawi
Authors: Chipeta Effie , Kaira Princess , Mhango Patani , Singogo Emmanuel , Mwapasa Victor , Muula Adamson S. , Likaka Andrew , Chiwindo Titus , Hosseinipour Mina C. , M'baya Bridon ,   For the Malawi BLOODSAFE Program
Published: December 2024

Background and Objective

Despite the Malawi Blood Transfusion Service (MBTS) increasing the amount of blood collected since its inception in 2004, Malawi remains with a 27% deficit in required blood supplies nationally. We sought to understand the facilitators and barriers to blood donation among secondary school students in Malawi.

Methods

We utilised a qualitative exploratory design, with a sample of 135 participants purposefully selected from 16 secondary schools across Malawi. Data collection methods included in‐depth interviews with 20 participants (inclusive of first‐time and repeat donors, lapsed and non‐donors), 20 key informant interviews (including community leaders, policy‐level stakeholders and MBTS staff), and 16 focus group discussions involving 95 participants (community stakeholders and all donor categories). We used the consolidated framework for implementation research (CFIR) to assess barriers and facilitators of blood donation, focusing only on four CFIR domains: internal and external factors; the implementation process and individual characteristics influencing blood donation.

Results

Blood donation among students are facilitated by altruism, incentives including milestone awards, knowledge, motivation, transport, peer pressure and individual health status. Common barriers cited included: negative experiences with the blood donation process, fear, unsupported environment, poor incentives, privacy issues and the donation activities starting late than scheduled.

Conclusion

While there have been efforts to motivate students to donate blood, significant barriers to blood donation still exist. Intensifying education and awareness campaigns may help dispel misconceptions and fears surrounding donation experiences and blood usage. Also, continuing with the provision of appropriate incentives including milestone awards may also encourage students.
Development of high‐throughput tissue culture‐free plant transformation systems
Authors: Zhong Heng , Elumalai Sivamani , Li Changbao , Liu Wei , Dong Shujie , Que Qiudeng
Published: December 2024

Efficient transformation systems are highly desirable for plant genetic research and biotechnology product development efforts. Tissue culture‐free transformation (TCFT) and minimal tissue culture transformation (MTCT) systems have great potential in addressing genotype‐dependency challenge, shortening transformation timeline, and improving operational efficiency by greatly reducing personnel and supply costs. The development of Arabidopsis floral dip transformation method almost 3 decades ago has greatly expedited plant genomic research. However, development of efficient TCFT or MTCT systems in non‐Brassica species had limited success until recently despite the demonstration of successful in planta transformation in many plant species. In the last few years, there have been some major advances in the development of such systems in several crops using novel approaches. This article will review these new advances and discuss potential areas for further development.
Intercostal thoracoscopic pericardiectomy in left lateral recumbency: A cadaveric study of feasibility, efficiency, and extent of pericardial resection
Authors: Levine Jacob R. , Scharf Valery F.
Published: December 2024

Objective

To describe the feasibility, efficiency, and extent of thoracoscopic pericardiectomy (TP) on a ventilated dog with an intercostal approach in lateral recumbency (ILR), in comparison with the traditional transdiaphragmatic paraxiphoid approach in dorsal recumbency (PDR).

Study Design

Randomized experimental study.

Animals

Twenty canine cadavers (n = 10 per group).

Methods

Thoracoscopic pericardiectomy was performed on mechanically ventilated cadavers to remove the largest pericardial fragment possible using either the ILR or PDR technique. Approach and procedure time were recorded, and surgical extent (cardiac exposure/exteriorization, pericardial fragment area) was assessed. Procedural difficulty and intraoperative visibility were also assessed to evaluate feasibility.

Results

Total surgical time (sum of approach and pericardiectomy time) did not differ between groups, although PDR pericardiectomy took longer (p = .045) by an average of 5.2 min. Exteriorization of the heart from the pericardial sac was achieved for all trials. Pericardial fragments from PDR trials were larger than those of ILR (p = .004), with a mean difference of 23.21 cm2. Cardiac exposure and operative visibility scores were greater for PDR procedures.

Conclusion

The ILR approach with bilateral ventilation was a feasible alternative for performing partial pericardiectomies, which did not require more total surgical time when compared with the PDR approach.

Clinical significance

The ILR approach for TP warrants further evaluation in live dogs as it may hold promise for treating causes of pericardial effusion that do not require subtotal pericardiectomy and improving efficiency when paired with other ILR procedures such as thoracic duct ligation.
Detection of Leishmania infantum and Leishmania amazonensis in Bats From Endemic and Non‐endemic Areas of São Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: de França Danilo Alves , Zúquete Sara , Louro Mariana , Kersul Maíra Guimarães , Menozzi Benedito Donizete , Fornazari Felipe , Santos‐Gomes Gabriela , da Fonseca Isabel Pereira , Langoni Helio
Published: December 2024

Aims

Leishmaniasis is an endemic disease in several regions of Brazil, a tropical country that presents specific environmental conditions that contribute to the development of phlebotomine vectors. This study aimed to detect Leishmania species in naturally infected bats from 17 municipalities in the São Paulo state.

Methods and Results

Spleen and liver samples from 203 bats were analysed by real‐time PCR and confirmed by conventional PCR followed by gene sequencing. Leishmania DNA was amplified by real‐time PCR in 6.4% of the bats and by conventional PCR followed by sequencing in 3.4% of the bats. Positive samples were characterised and included in GenBank. Leishmania species were confirmed in M. molossus, M. nigricans and E. glaucinus bats. Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis and L. infantum (syn. L. chagasi) were identified. This is the first detection of Leishmania spp. in bats in the studied areas. All the positive bats came from urban areas. Insectivorous bats were statistically more positive. There was similarity between our sequences and those of a human isolate and a phlebotomine from the region.

Conclusions

This result points to bats as important possible reservoir of Leishmania in Brazil and guides the country's health authorities towards epidemiological surveillance, control and prevention actions in endemic areas.
On some matrix counting problems
Authors: Mohammadi Ali , Ostafe Alina , Shparlinski Igor E.
Published: December 2024

We estimate the frequency of singular matrices and of matrices of a given rank whose entries are parametrised by arbitrary polynomials over the integers and modulo a prime . In particular, in the integer case, we improve a recent bound of V. Blomer and J. Li (2022).
An endogenous aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligand induces preeclampsia‐like phenotypes in rats
Authors: Zhao Ying‐Jie , Zhou Chi , Zhang Si‐Yan , Mishra Jay S. , Li Hui‐Hui , Lei Wei , Wang Kai , Kumar Sathish , Zheng Jing
Published: December 2024

Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive disorder during human pregnancy. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand‐activated transcription factor. Exogenous and endogenous AhR ligands can induce hypertension in male rats and mice. Herein, using rats as a model, we tested the hypothesis that over‐regulation of endogenous AhR ligands during pregnancy impairs vascular functions by disrupting the transcriptome in the placenta, contributing to the development of PE. Pregnant rats were injected daily with an endogenous AhR ligand, 2‐(1′H‐indole‐3′‐carbonyl)‐thiazole‐4‐carboxylic acid methyl ester (ITE), from gestational day (GD) 10 to 19. Maternal mean blood pressure was measured on GD16–20. Proteinuria and uteroplacental blood flow were monitored on GD20. Placentas collected on GD20 were used to determine changes in vascular density and transcriptome. Compared with the vehicle control, ITE elevated maternal mean blood pressure by 22% and 16% on GD16 and 17, respectively. ITE increased proteinuria by 50% and decreased uteroplacental blood flow by 26%. ITE reduced the placental vascular density by 18%. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that ITE induced 1316 and 2020 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in female and male placentas, respectively. These DEGs were enriched in pathways relevant to heart diseases, vascular functions and inflammation. Bioinformatics analysis also predicted that ITE altered immune cell infiltration in placentas depending on fetal sex. These data suggest that over‐regulation of endogenous AhR ligands may lead to PE with impaired vascular functions and disrupted fetal sex‐specific transcriptomes and immune cell infiltration in placentas. These AhR ligand‐induced DEGs and pathways may represent promising therapeutic targets for PE‐induced cardiovascular dysfunctions.

image

Key points

An endogenous AhR ligand (ITE) elevated maternal blood pressure and proteinuria in pregnant rats, and decreased uteroplacental blood flow and fetal and placental growth, all of which are hallmarks of preeclampsia.

ITE reduced vascular density and altered immune cell distribution in rat placentas.

ITE dysregulated transcriptomes in rat placentas in a fetal sex‐specific manner. These ITE‐dysregulated genes and pathways are highly relevant to diseases of heart, vascular functions and inflammatory responses.
Hard x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reference spectra of cinnabar (HgS) with Cr Kα excitation
Authors: Zheng Dong , Young Christopher N. , Stickle William F.
Published: December 2024

Hard x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy using monochromatic Cr Kα radiation (5414.8 eV) has been used to acquire XPS and Auger data from a cinnabar crystal sample. Survey data, high-resolution scans of all observed photoelectron peaks and high-resolution scans of Auger lines are presented herein.
Contribution of telacebec to novel drug regimens in a murine tuberculosis model
Authors: Komm Oliver D. , Tyagi Sandeep , Garcia Andrew , Almeida Deepak , Chang Yong , Li Si-Yang , Castillo Jennie Ruelas , Converse Paul J. , Black Todd , Fotouhi Nader , Nuermberger Eric L.
Published: December 2024

The clinical efficacy of combination drug regimens containing the first-generation diarylquinoline (DARQ) bedaquiline in the treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis has validated ATP synthesis as a vulnerable pathway in
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. New DARQs in clinical development may be even more effective than bedaquiline, including against emerging bedaquiline-resistant strains. Telacebec (T) is a novel cytochrome bc
1
:aa
3
oxidase inhibitor that also inhibits ATP synthesis. Based on its demonstrated efficacy as a monotherapy in mice and in a phase 2a clinical trial, we tested the contribution of T to novel combination therapies against two strains of
M. tuberculosis
(H37Rv and HN878) in an established BALB/c mouse model of tuberculosis in an effort to find more effective regimens. Overall, T was more effective in regimens against the HN878 strain than against the H37Rv strain, a finding supported by the greater vulnerability of the former strain to T and to genetic depletion of QcrB. Against both strains, combinations of a DARQ, clofazimine, and T were highly bactericidal. However, only against HN878 did T contribute synergistically, whereas an antagonistic effect was observed against H37Rv. These results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of T and highlight how differences in the susceptibility of
M. tuberculosis
strains could lead to different conclusions about a drug’s potential contribution to novel drug regimens.

CLINICAL TRIALS

This study is registered with
Clinicaltrials.gov

as

NCT04890535

and
NCT06058299

.
Shedding new light on
Cyclospora
: how the use of ultraviolet fluorescence microscopy can improve diagnosis of cyclosporiasis
Authors: Ma Angela , Mathison Blaine A. , Couturier Marc Roger
Published: December 2024

Cyclosporiasis has historically been underdiagnosed due to a lack of clinical recognition and challenges in laboratory detection. Microscopic detection of
Cyclospora
requires either the modified Kinyoun’s acid-fast or safranin stains, which are not part of the standard ova-and-parasite examination. Alternatively, the use of fluorescence microscopy for the detection of
Cyclospora
due to the organism’s autofluorescent properties has been an available tool in the field of clinical parasitology. However, it is unknown how ultraviolet (UV) fluorescence performs compared to permanent stains in routine diagnostic laboratory settings. In this study, we present a direct head-to-head comparison of UV fluorescence against modified acid-fast (MAF) stains using 50 (35
Cyclospora
positive, 5
Cystoisospora
positive, and 10
Cystoisospora
negative) blinded, concentrated stool specimens. Five technically competent medical laboratory technologists of varying years of experience in clinical parasitology at a large reference laboratory independently read each of the MAF slides and UV wet mounts. Overall, the performance of UV fluorescence was similar to MAF slides with a higher agreement of 88.8% (95% CI 86.3%–91.3%) compared to 85.2% (95% CI 84.2%–86.2%), respectively. A higher false-negative rate was associated with MAF slides (MAF: 11.6%, UV: 6.8%). However, UV fluorescence was found to have a higher proportion of false positives (UF: 3.2%, MAF: 2%) and misidentified coccidia. Discrepant results regardless of methods were more frequently observed with technologists who have less experience in parasite morphology. This study is the first to document evidence to support the increased sensitivity and utility of UV fluorescence to improve laboratory diagnosis of cyclosporiasis.

IMPORTANCE

This study is important as there is a dearth of studies in our field of clinical parasitology that investigate and establish performance characteristics of classic and newer, non-molecular methods. While these studies may not seem as heavy hitting as some new technologies described in our related disciplines, for our field, such studies are long overdue and critically lacking.
Teaching with TED: a curated set of TED Talks and discussion prompts for microbiology and cellular biology courses
Authors: Morgan Dyan E. , Hotze Eileen
Published: December 2024

Engaging students in biology courses can be enhanced through assignments that introduce research relevant to course content. Despite their potential, such assignments are often underutilized due to the time required to identify suitable research and to create assignments. Here, we address this issue by proposing the use of TED Talks as a resource for introducing research related to scientific topics commonly taught in undergraduate biology courses. The extensive TED Talk library offers numerous options, but selecting appropriate content can be daunting for instructors. Here, we provide a curated set of TED Talks and field-tested discussion prompts aimed specifically for Microbiology and Cellular Biology courses. These assignments were implemented in both asynchronous online and synchronous in-person formats using discussion board forums, although alternative assignment formats can be easily adapted. Student feedback about these activities indicates that TED Talks helped students connect classroom material to real-world applications and enhanced their overall learning experience. Overall, TED Talks are an enjoyable and versatile tool to diversify biology curricula, relate content to real-world issues, and improve student engagement and comprehension. Here, we provide a framework of TED Talks and discussion prompts that instructors can adapt to their courses.
Do not let perfect be the enemy of good: the current reality of
Bordetella
testing
Authors: Yee Rebecca
Published: December 2024

Diagnosis of
Bordetella pertussis
is made by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect insertion sequence 481 (IS
481
). However, IS
481
is found in both
B. pertussis
and
Bordetella holmesii
. In a recent study, Cole et al. (Microbiol Spectr 12:e00783-24.
https://doi.org/10.1128/spectrum.00783-24
) compared the accuracy of assays performed at two different commercial laboratories that used IS
481
as a molecular target against a multiplex PCR assay performed at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that can differentiate the different
Bordetella
species. The results demonstrated that the overall agreement among the assays from the commercial laboratories and the CDC was 85%. Only a small percentage (1.4%) of specimens positive for IS
481
were identified as
B. holmesii
. This study suggests that PCR tests using IS
481
as a target provide reliable diagnosis for pertussis. However, end users should recognize the limitations of PCR testing for pertussis including the inability to differentiate and monitor transmission of non-pertussis
Bordetella
species.
Supplemental Material: Cenozoic pure-shear thickening of the northern Tibetan Plateau margin: Implications for diverse plateau uplift mechanisms controlled by convergent obliquity
Authors: Gao Shibao , Lin Xiubin , al. et
Published: December 2024

Figure S1: Compiled geophysical observations across the central segment of the Altyn Tagh fault system, showing the Moho offset by the Altyn Tagh and North Altyn faults. Figure S2: Uninterpreted seismic profiles L1–L4 in the SE Tarim Basin, China, with the locations shown in Figure 2A. Figure S3: Uninterpreted seismic profiles L5–L8 in the SE Tarim Basin, China, with the locations shown in Figure 2A. Figure S4: Published seismic profiles showing southeastward thinning of the Cenozoic strata along the western and eastern segments of the Altyn Tagh fault, with the locations shown in Figure 1A. Table S1: Seismic velocity model of well R1 derived from the vertical seismic velocity profile (VSP) data.
STOCHASTIC SHIFTS WITHIN A PREDATOR–PREY SYSTEM FEATURING SCHOOLING BEHAVIOR AND GENERALIST PREDATORS
Authors: ROY SUBARNA , MANDAL SAYAN , TIWARI PANKAJ KUMAR , MARTCHEVA MAIA
Published: December 2024

In ecological systems, the predator-induced fear reduces the reproductive rate of prey species. In this study, we developed a predator–prey model incorporating both positive and negative effects of fear, refuge availability, and supplementary food using the Cosner functional response for prey consumption. Our mathematical and numerical analyses identify various bifurcations, including Hopf, transcritical, saddle-node, Bogdanov–Takens, and cusp bifurcations. Our numerical simulations highlight the critical role of prey birth rate, revealing scenarios ranging from species extinction to predator persistence to species coexistence. We also explore the impact of environmental white noise, investigating noise-induced transitions between different stable states. Using stochastic sensitivity functions (SSFs), we construct confidence ellipses and estimate noise intensity thresholds for state transitions. Our study provides significant insights into the complex dynamics of predator–prey interactions, emphasizing the importance of fear, refuge, and additional food sources.
Pose-Invariant Face Recognition Using Optimized Hybrid Yolo Algorithm from Image
Authors: Prabha J. J. Jenu , Kumar R. S. Vinod
Published: December 2024

One application of computer vision is face recognition, which essentially involves the identification of visual patterns. Face recognition is a tool that we often employ for multimedia management, smart card applications, justice reform, and security. The goal of a face recognition system is to automatically identify faces in any image or video using a computer vision domain. There are several methods for the detection of faces from the video; still, the inaccurate detection and computational complexity degrades the recognition precision. Hence, an optimized hybrid deep learning is introduced for the recognition of pose-invariant faces from the image. The pose-invariant face recognition is employed using the proposed ResNet-152 integrated YOLO (Res-YOLONet), wherein the ResNet-152 and YOLOv5 are hybridized together to enhance the recognition accuracy with minimal computational complexity. Besides, the loss function optimization is devised using the proposed Enhanced Fennec Fox (EnFF) algorithm. The proposed EnFF algorithm is designed by integrating the adaptive weighting strategy within the conventional Fennec Fox algorithm for acquiring the global best solution. The loss function optimization using the EnFF enhances the recognition accuracy. The assessment of the proposed EnFF_Res-YOLONet based on Accuracy, Precision, Recall, and Specificity acquires the values of 96%, 94%, 97%, and 96.6%, respectively.