bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐resolution of acute kidney injury in the first week portends the development of chronic kidney disease in critically ill patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Maiwall Rakhi , Pasupuleti Samba Siva Rao , Hidam Ashini Kumar , Rastogi Archana , Thomas Sherin , Kumar Guresh , Kumar Anupam , Sarin Shiv Kumar
Published: July 2023

Background

Renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) cause maladaptive repair and perpetuate renal fibrosis.

Aim

To evaluate urinary neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) and RTEC as risk factors for non‐resolution of acute kidney injury (AKI–NR) at day seven and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in critically ill patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

We performed urinary NGAL and microscopy at enrolment and day 7 in all patients. We assessed 17 renal injury, endothelial injury and repair markers, genes for mitochondrial biogenesis by qRT–PCR in RTEC, and post‐mortem renal biopsies for understanding mechanisms of AKI non‐resolution (n = 30).

Results

We enrolled 310 patients, aged 48.1 ± 11.6 years, 87% male, 90% alcoholic. Of these, 36% had RTEC at enrolment, and 53% had AKI–NR on day 7. On mean follow‐up of 136 days (range 43–365), 150 (48.3%) developed CKD. The presence of RTEC or granular casts, NGAL and AKI–NR were independent predictors of CKD development on competing risk analysis. Higher MCP‐1, renal endothelial injury, decrease in tubular repair markers and failure of mitochondrial biogenesis in RTEC were seen in patients with AKI–NR compared with AKI–R (p < 0.05). Renal biopsies showed infiltration with monocyte–macrophage, increased α‐SMA, and tubulointerstitial fibrosis.

Conclusion

Almost two‐thirds of critically ill patients with cirrhosis have AKI, which resolves in only one‐half at day seven and predicts the development of CKD. Higher NGAL, RTEC, or granular casts were independent predictors of AKI–NR and CKD development. Enhanced tubular and endothelial injury, decreased repair, monocyte–macrophage infiltration and mitochondrial dysfunction in RTEC are associated with AKI non‐resolution and risk of renal fibrosis.
Analysis of Length-Biased and Partly Interval-Censored Survival Data with Mismeasured Covariates
Authors: Chen Li-Pang , Qiu Bangxu
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we analyze the length-biased and partly interval-censored data, whose challenges primarily come from biased sampling and interfere induced by interval censoring. Unlike existing methods that focus on low-dimensional data and assume the covariates to be precisely measured, sometimes researchers may encounter high-dimensional data subject to measurement error, which are ubiquitous in applications and make estimation unreliable. To address those challenges, we explore a valid inference method for handling high-dimensional length-biased and interval-censored survival data with measurement error in covariates under the accelerated failure time model. We primarily employ the SIMEX method to correct for measurement error effects and propose the boosting procedure to do variable selection and estimation. The proposed method is able to handle the case that the dimension of covariates is larger than the sample size and enjoys appealing features that the distributions of the covariates are left unspecified.
Simultaneous Selection and Inference for Varying Coefficients with Zero Regions: A Soft-Thresholding Approach
Authors: Yang Yuan , Pan Ziyang , Kang Jian , Brummett Chad , Li Yi
Published: July 2023

Varying coefficient models have been used to explore dynamic effects in many scientific areas, such as in medicine, finance, and epidemiology. As most existing models ignore the existence of zero regions, we propose a new soft-thresholded varying coefficient model, where the coefficient functions are piecewise smooth with zero regions. Our new modeling approach enables us to perform variable selection, detect the zero regions of selected variables, obtain point estimates of the varying coefficients with zero regions, and construct a new type of sparse confidence intervals that accommodate zero regions. We prove the asymptotic properties of the estimator, based on which we draw statistical inference. Our simulation study reveals that the proposed sparse confidence intervals achieve the desired coverage probability. We apply the proposed method to analyze a large-scale preoperative opioid study.
Discussion on “Optimal Test Procedures for Multiple Hypotheses Controlling the Familywise Expected Loss” by Willi Maurer, Frank Bretz, and Xiaolei Xun
Authors: Brannath Werner
Published: July 2023

This comment builds on the familywise expected loss (FWEL) framework suggested by Maurer, Bretz, and Xun in 2022. By representing the populationwise error rate (PWER) as FWEL, it is illustrated how the FWEL framework can be extended to clinical trials with multiple and overlapping populations and the PWER can be generalized to more general losses. The comment also addresses the question of how to deal with midtrial changes in the posttrial risks and related losses that are caused by data-driven decisions. Focusing on multiarm trials with the possibility of dropping treatments midtrial, we suggest to switch from control of the unconditional expected loss to control of the conditional expected loss that is related to the actual risks and is conditional on the sample event that causes the change in the risks. The problem and here suggested solution is also motivated with a sequence of independent trials for a hitherto incurable disease which ends when an efficient treatment is found. No multiplicity adjustment is applied in this case and we show how this can be justified by the consideration of the changing out-trial risks and with control of conditional type I error rates and losses.
Association between inter‐pregnancy interval and risk of adverse birth outcomes in subsequent pregnancy: A retrospective study from Jordan
Authors: Hijazi Heba , Alameddine Mohamad , Al Abdi Rabah M. , Baniissa Wegdan , Sindiani Amer , Al‐Yateem Nabeel , Al‐Sharman Alham , Al Marzouqi Alounoud , Hossain Ahmed
Published: July 2023

Background

Adverse birth outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight (LBW), are leading causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality. In this study, we aimed to estimate the association between inter‐pregnancy interval (IPI) and the risks of adverse birth outcomes in a subsequent pregnancy.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis involving 630 mothers who delivered a singleton live infant at a leading tertiary hospital in northern Jordan from March to August 2021. Outcome variables were preterm birth (<37 weeks of gestation) and LBW (<2.5 kg). Using multivariable logistic regression, the association between IPI and these two adverse birth outcomes was investigated.

Results

The rates of preterm birth and LBW were 12.4% and 16.8%, respectively. Compared with an optimal IPI (24–36 months), a short IPI (<24 months) was positively associated with preterm birth (aOR: 4.09; 95% CI: 1.48–6.55) and LBW (aOR: 3.58; 95% CI: 1.57–5.15). Infants conceived after a long IPI (≥ 60 months) had increased odds of preterm birth (aOR: 3.78; 95% CI: 1.12–5.78) and LBW (aOR: 2.65; 95% CI: 1.67–4.03). Preterm delivery was also significantly associated with the mother's age (aOR: 1.10; 95% CI: 1.04–1.17), history of multiple cesarean births (aOR: 2.67; 95% CI: 1.14–4.29), prolonged rupture of membranes (aOR: 2.46; 95% CI: 1.10–5.52), and perinatal death (aOR: 3.42; 95% CI: 1.10–5.49). A mother's history of prior LBW (aOR: 4.39; 95% CI: 1.08–6.80), hypertensive disorders (aOR: 1.95; 95% CI: 1.03–3.89), and multiple cesarean births (aOR: 4.35; 95% CI: 2.10–6.99) was associated with LBW.

Conclusions

Both short and long IPIs were related to preterm delivery and LBW. Optimal birth spacing is recommended to improve birth outcomes and must be considered when designing effective family planning programs.
‘What do you do with a Mummy like that?’ Using symbolic play to disempower a persecutory sadistic maternal object
Authors: Harris Sarah
Published: July 2023

This paper looks at the creation of narrative in the treatment of a 10‐year‐old girl. It will explore how psychodynamic, psychoanalytically informed work can help a child whose internalized narrative structure seemed built to harbour violent, unpredictable and psychopathic objects. It will examine how close and vigilant observation of a child's internalized storyline and choice of figurines/symbols can lead to more compassion and thoughtful personification in play, and how this in turn can lead not only to the facilitation of creativity around a more coherent storyline, but also the opportunity for the therapist to ‘co‐author’ a different trajectory for the figurines, and outcome. Whilst the analysis will concentrate on the patient's internal world, it will extend to a discussion about the blurred lines between truth and play. The paper will present the examination and participation of symbolic play as a highly useful device for a therapist in shifting a child's interiority, in this case enough for the patient to be self‐determining in their external world.
The southern extension of the Eocene Andean orogeny: New sedimentary record of the foreland basin in the southern Central Andes at 32° S
Authors: Suriano Julieta , Lossada Ana C. , Mahoney J. Brian , Tedesco Ana M. , Limarino Carlos O. , Giambiagi Laura B. , Mazzitelli Manuela A. , Mescua José F. , Lothari Lucas , Quiroga Rodrigo
Published: July 2023

The Eocene compressional phase is well known to have contributed to the construction of the Andes orogen at latitudes north of 30° S, but its extension to the south has not been fully studied. Moreover, synorogenic deposits of Eocene age across the foreland are scarce. The Cenozoic Manantiales Basin records the unroofing sequence of the Andes at 32° S. This study focuses on the basal infill of the Manantiales Basin, informally called the Areniscas Chocolate, which has received less attention than the upper infill until now. Sedimentological, geochronological and provenance studies were carried out on this unit. Here, we present the first ages for the Areniscas Chocolate sequence, of ca. 35–39 Ma (maximum depositional age, MDA). This MDA is interpreted as close to its depositional age, which together with their stratigraphic characteristics, allow us both to separate it from the overlying Miocene Chinches Formation and to propose it as an independent lithostratigraphic unit called Río de los Patos Formation (nov. den.). The provenance analysis of the Río delos Patos Formation indicates a sediment input from western sources located in the Coastal Cordillera and Western Principal Cordillera. Facies associations suggest that the Río de los Patos Formation represents the distal synorogenic deposits during the construction of an Eocene relief to the west. Therefore, the Manantiales Basin started during the late Eocene as a distal foreland basin, indicating that Eocene compression reached latitudes as far south as 32° S. Our results shed light into the characterization of the earliest infill of the Manantiales Basin, as well as into the tectonic evolution of the basin.
Liquiritigenin regulates insulin sensitivity and ameliorates inflammatory responses in the nonalcoholic fatty liver by activation PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Bao Lei , Hao Pei , Jiang Meiju , Chu Weijiang
Published: July 2023

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent long‐term disease in the world. Liquiritigenin (LQ) is protective against a variety of hepatotoxins. Herein, we report the potential mechanism of LQ on a high‐fat diet (HFD) induced NAFLD. NAFLD mice model was established by HFD for 12 weeks, and LQ treatment for 1 week. Commercially available assay kits measure liver triglycerides (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) levels. Plasm TC, TG, high‐density‐lipoprotein (HDL‐C), and low‐density‐lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels were also monitored by biochemistry. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits were performed to analyze the pro‐inflammatory factors, and intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT), insulin tolerance test (IPITT), and serum insulin were also determined. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis was employed to analyze the overlapping genes of LQ targets and NAFLD development‐related targets. Western blot was performed on key proteins of the enriched signaling pathway. HFD mice showed significant increases in hepatic TG and TC, and plasm TC, TG, and LDL‐C in blood lipids, while HDL‐C significantly decreased, and LQ treatment reversed their levels (p < 0.05). LQ also alleviated HFD‐induced elevated levels of IPGTT, IPITT, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR). And serum levels of the pro‐inflammatory factor were also suppressed by LQ. PI3K/AKT pathway was enriched by KEGG pathway enrichment, and its key proteins p‐PI3K and p‐AKT were elevated after LQ treatment (p < 0.05). We found for the first time that LQ improves lipid accumulation, alleviates insulin resistance, and suppresses inflammatory responses in NAFLD mice, which might be associated with the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway.
Structure‐based design, optimization of lead, synthesis, and biological evaluation of compounds active against Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: de Almeida Gleybson Correia , de Oliveira Gerliny Bezerra , da Silva Monte Zenaide , Costa Érick Caique Santos , da Silva Falcão Emerson Peter , Scotti Luciana , Scotti Marcus Tullius , Oliveira Silva Ricardo , Pereira Valéria Rêgo Alves , da Silva Elis Dionisio , Junior Policarpo Ademar Sales , de Andrade Cavalcante Marton Kaique , de Melo Sebastião José
Published: July 2023

Chagas' disease affects approximately eight million people throughout the world, especially the poorest individuals. The protozoan that causes this disease–Trypanosoma cruzi–has the enzyme cruzipain, which is the main therapeutic target. As no available medications have satisfactory effectiveness and safety, it is of fundamental importance to design and synthesize novel analogues that are more active and selective. In the present study, molecular docking and the in silico prediction of ADMET properties were used as strategies to optimize the trypanocidal activity of the pyrimidine compound ZN3F based on interactions with the target site in cruzipain. From the computational results, eight 4‐amino‐5‐carbonitrile‐pyrimidine analogues were proposed, synthesized (5a‐f and 7g‐h) and, tested in vitro on the trypomastigote form of the Tulahuen strain of T. cruzi. The in silico study showed that the designed analogues bond favorably to important amino acid residues of the active site in cruzipain. An in vitro evaluation of cytotoxicity was performed on L929 mammal cell lines. All derivatives inhibited the Tulahuen strain of T. cruzi and also exhibited lower toxicity to L929 cells. The 5e product, in particular, proved to be a potent, selective (IC50 = 2.79 ± 0.00 μM, selectivity index = 31.3) inhibitor of T. cruzi. The present results indicated the effectiveness of drugs based on the structure of the receptor, revealing the potential trypanocidal of pyrimidines. This study also provides information on molecular aspects for the inhibition of cruzipain.
Epstein–Barr virus: To be a trigger of autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein astrocytopathy?
Authors: Li Xiao‐Li , Wang Jun‐Yan , Li Liang‐Kang , Yang Chun‐Lin , Zhao Xue‐Lu , Yang Bing , Zhang Peng , Liu Bin , Li Yan‐Bin , Zhang Zhao‐Xu , Duan Rui‐Sheng
Published: July 2023

Background

Autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) astrocytopathy is a novel autoimmune disease of central nervous system (CNS). It is unclear whether Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is related to autoimmune GFAP astrocytopathy.

Objective

To describe the clinical, laboratory, and imaging characteristics of patients with autoimmune GFAP astrocytopathy.

Methods

The clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings of patients are presented. The levels of GFAP in CSF were detected by ELISA. T and B cell subsets in CSF were detected by flow cytometry. GFAP‐IgG in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were tested by cell‐based assay (CBA) and tissue‐based assay (TBA).

Results

All three patients had fever, cognitive dysfunction, limb weakness, and positive GFAP‐IgG with EBV infection in CSF. Enteric glia cells may involve in this disease. Typical imaging findings include the gadolinium enhancement of linear perivascular radial perpendicular to the ventricle, meningeal enhancement (especially in midbrain interpeduncal fossa), longitudinally extensive lesions involving spindle cords, and more T2/Flair‐hyperintense lesions in the periventricular white matter at late stage. The patients had poor response to antiviral treatment and strong response to steroid pulse therapy.

Conclusion

EBV could induce CNS autoimmune response in autoimmune GFAP astrocytopathy. The detection of GFAP‐IgG and EBV may facilitate the early diagnosis in these patients.
Quantifying quality: The impact of measures of school quality on children's academic achievement across diverse societies
Authors: Rawlings Bruce S. , Davis Helen Elizabeth , Anum Adote , Burger Oskar , Chen Lydia , Morales Juliet Carolina Castro , Dutra Natalia , Dzabatou Ardain , Dzokoto Vivian , Erut Alejandro , Fong Frankie T. K. , Ghelardi Sabrina , Goldwater Micah , Ingram Gordon , Messer Emily , Kingsford Jessica , Lew‐Levy Sheina , Mendez Kimberley , Newhouse Morgan , Nielsen Mark , Pamei Gairan , Pope‐Caldwell Sarah , Ramos Karlos , Rojas Luis Emilio Echeverria , dos Santos Renan A. C. , Silveira Lara G. S. , Watzek Julia , Wirth Ciara , Legare Cristine H.
Published: July 2023

Recent decades have seen a rapid acceleration in global participation in formal education, due to worldwide initiatives aimed to provide school access to all children. Research in high income countries has shown that school quality indicators have a significant, positive impact on numeracy and literacy—skills required to participate in the increasingly globalized economy. Schools vary enormously in kind, resources, and teacher training around the world, however, and the validity of using diverse school quality measures in populations with diverse educational profiles remains unclear. First, we assessed whether children's numeracy and literacy performance across populations improves with age, as evidence of general school‐related learning effects. Next, we examined whether several school quality measures related to classroom experience and composition, and to educational resources, were correlated with one another. Finally, we examined whether they were associated with children's (4–12‐year‐olds, N = 889) numeracy and literacy performance in 10 culturally and geographically diverse populations which vary in historical engagement with formal schooling. Across populations, age was a strong positive predictor of academic achievement. Measures related to classroom experience and composition were correlated with one another, as were measures of access to educational resources and classroom experience and composition. The number of teachers per class and access to writing materials were key predictors of numeracy and literacy, while the number of students per classroom, often linked to academic achievement, was not. We discuss these results in the context of maximising children's learning environments and highlight study limitations to motivate future research.

Research Highlights

We examined the extent to which four measures of school quality were associated with one another, and whether they predicted children's academic achievement in 10 culturally and geographically diverse societies.

Across populations, measures related to classroom experience and composition were correlated with one another as were measures of access to educational resources to classroom experience and composition.

Age, the number of teachers per class, and access to writing materials were key predictors of academic achievement across populations.

Our data have implications for designing efficacious educational initiatives to improve school quality globally.
Inhibiting cholinergic signalling in the cerebellar interpositus nucleus impairs motor behaviour
Authors: Pickford Jasmine , Iosif Cristiana I. , Bashir Zafar I. , Apps Richard
Published: July 2023

The role of neuromodulators in the cerebellum is not well understood. In particular, the behavioural significance of the cholinergic system in the cerebellum is unknown. To investigate the importance of cerebellar cholinergic signalling in behaviour, we infused acetylcholine receptor antagonists, scopolamine and mecamylamine, bilaterally into the rat cerebellum (centred on interpositus nucleus) and observed the motor effects through a battery of behavioural tests. These tests included unrewarded behaviour during open field exploration and a horizontal ladder walking task and reward‐based beam walking and pellet reaching tasks. Infusion of a mix of the antagonists did not impair motor learning in the horizontal ladder walking or the reaching task but reduced spontaneous movement during open field exploration, impaired coordination during beam walking and ladder walking, led to fewer reaches in the pellet reaching task, slowed goal‐directed reaching behaviour and reduced reward pellet consumption in a free access to food task. Infusion of the muscarinic antagonist scopolamine on its own resulted in deficits in motor performance and a reduction in the number of reward pellets consumed in the free access to food task. By contrast, infusion of the nicotinic antagonist mecamylamine on its own had no significant effect on any task, except beam walking traversal time, which was reduced. Together, these data suggest that acetylcholine in the cerebellar interpositus nucleus is important for the execution and coordination of voluntary movements mainly via muscarinic receptor signalling, especially in relation to reward‐related behaviour.
Quality matters: Stoichiometry of resources modulates spatial feedbacks in aquatic‐terrestrial meta‐ecosystems
Authors: Pichon Benoît , Thébault Elisa , Lacroix Gérard , Gounand Isabelle
Published: July 2023

Species dispersal and resource spatial flows greatly affect the dynamics of connected ecosystems. So far, research on meta‐ecosystems has mainly focused on the quantitative effect of subsidy flows. Yet, resource exchanges at heterotrophic‐autotrophic (e.g. aquatic‐terrestrial) ecotones display a stoichiometric asymmetry that likely matters for functioning. Here, we joined ecological stoichiometry and the meta‐ecosystem framework to understand how subsidy stoichiometry mediates the response of the meta‐ecosystem to subsidy flows. Our model results demonstrate that resource flows between ecosystems can induce a positive spatial feedback loop, leading to higher production at the meta‐ecosystem scale by relaxing local ecosystem limitations (‘spatial complementarity’). Furthermore, we show that spatial flows can also have an unexpected negative impact on production when accentuating the stoichiometric mismatch between local resources and basal species needs. This study paves the way for studies on the interdependency of ecosystems at the landscape extent.
Dose‐dependent bidirectional pharmacological effects of vinorelbine‐based metronomic combination chemotherapy on tumor growth and metastasis and mechanisms in melanoma mouse model
Authors: Liu Hua , Zheng Qiaowei , Li Min , Kou Jianrong , Wei Junsong , Feng Weiyi
Published: July 2023

Background

There is evidence that the empirical setting of doses and schedules of antineoplastic agents in metronomic chemotherapy (MC) might lead to undesirable outcomes, such as promoting tumor growth or metastasis at certain low doses. However, details about the dose effect of antineoplastic agents in MC have not been fully known yet.

Objectives

Vinorelbine combined with cisplatin or fluorouracil (VNR/CDDP or VNR/FU) was selected to investigate its effects on tumor growth or metastasis as well as mechanisms.

Methods

Experimental techniques, including immunohistochemistry, western blot, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry, were used to explore the mechanisms, along with cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion.

Results

The results showed that VNR/CDDP or VNR/FU promoted tumor growth and metastasis at low doses and inhibited them at high ones. Except that expressions of apoptotic proteins were elevated at both low and high doses, low‐dose treatments enhanced angiogenesis and promoted the mobilization and recruitment of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), while high‐dose treatments reversed these effects. Additionally, low concentrations of VNR/CDDP or VNR/FU stimulated tumor cell functions such as anti‐apoptosis, migration, and invasion, but high concentrations only suppressed cell proliferation and increased apoptosis.

Conclusion

This study elucidated a bidirectional action mode regulated by multiple mechanisms at different doses in MC and also highlighted the risks of low‐dose metronomic administration of antineoplastic agents in the clinic. More preclinical and clinical studies focusing on the dose‐effect of metronomic regimens are urgently needed because an effective therapeutic regimen should be an optimal setting of drugs, doses, schedules, or combinations.
Whole crop maize yield modeling based on regional climatic data considering cultivar maturity grouping
Authors: Peng Jinglun , Kim Ji Yung , Lee Baehun , Kim Byongwan , Sung Kyungil
Published: July 2023

The sustainable supply of whole crop maize (WCM, Zea mays L.), as the domestic high‐quality forage source, is causing great concern among the related parties in the Republic of Korea. Many new cultivars were introduced or developed in recent decades. This study was conducted to construct the WCM weather‐crop yield prediction model considering cultivar maturity as well as to evaluate the effects of local climatic factors on yield. Data on the nationwide adaptability tests of WCM cultivars and the meteorological data were collected and merged into a dataset (n = 386, 22 years) after data cleansing. Three climatic variables, including the accumulation values of growing degree days, precipitation, and sunshine hours from seeding to harvesting, were generated. Then, the dataset was split into two sub datasets considering cultivar maturity. Subsequently, the models, including the three climatic variables and the cultivated location, were constructed for both sub datasets. The finesses and accuracy of the models were confirmed by residual diagnostics and 3‐fold cross‐validation. The accumulated temperature, sunshine time, and precipitation were found to significantly affect the WCM yield variance, while the precipitation factor caused stresses to the yield, which indicates water management is important for WCM cultivation.
Distribution patterns of orchid bees in xeric and mesic habitats on a tropical mountaintop
Authors: De Freitas Catarina Dias , Novais Samuel , Dos Santos Júnior José Eustáquio , Resende Fernando M. , Oki Yumi , Fernandes Geraldo Wilson
Published: July 2023

Most studies evaluating insect communities along climatic gradients in mountain regions have overlooked the relevance of the contrasting effects of xeric and mesic habitats on species distribution and richness. Mesic zones in xeric ecosystems can provide more favorable conditions for the maintenance of some insects, including orchid bees (Apidae, Euglossini), which are known for their high species diversity in humid tropical forests.

For the first time, we sought to understand the distribution of Euglossini in xeric and mesic habitats during dry and wet seasons along an elevational gradient in Espinhaço mountains, southeastern Brazil.

The study collected 4873 orchid bees from three genera and 14 species. During the wet season, bee richness decreased with elevation in both xeric and mesic habitats. However, during the dry season, there was an increase in both bee richness and abundance at intermediate elevations. In the dry season, lower bee richness and abundance were recorded in xeric habitats compared with mesic habitats. Bee richness and abundance did not differ between the dry and wet seasons for mesic habitats, while lower richness and abundance were recorded in the dry season for xeric habitats. Species composition remained unchanged across habitats, and species turnover was identified as the primary driver of β‐diversity among elevations and seasons.

Orchid bees require high temperatures, but they cannot tolerate water stress in xeric habitats during the dry season. This highlights the importance of mesic habitats for maintaining these pollinators, which are essential for ecosystems in savanna and mountainous regions.
Does it fit? The relationships between personality, decision autonomy fit, work engagement, and emotional exhaustion in self‐managing organizations
Authors: Doblinger Maria , Class Janina
Published: July 2023

The novel organizational form of self‐managing organizations decentralizes decision authority, thus promising higher adaptability and sustainability. However, recent practical experiences showed that such organizations struggle with employee turnover and lack of engagement, and thus, levers to improve personnel selection are required. This work investigated the relationship between person‐environment fit regarding perceived and ideal decision autonomy and the employee outcomes of work engagement and emotional exhaustion in self‐managing organizations. Furthermore, the associations with personality traits were examined. The study relied on cross‐sectional survey data from two subsamples of employees working in self‐managing and traditional organizations. Group comparison was used to test the elevated level of decision autonomy in self‐managing organizations, polynomial regression with response surface analysis was used to investigate the effect of (mis‐)fit, and multiple regression analyses evaluated the relationship with personality traits. The findings showed that employees in self‐managing organizations experienced higher decision autonomy than those in traditional organizations. Additionally, the fit between ideal and perceived decision autonomy predicted higher work engagement, while extraversion, openness to experience, and low neuroticism predicted higher ideal decision autonomy. As a result, individual person‐environment fit regarding decision autonomy and personality requires attention in self‐managing organizations to engage employees. The findings imply that the effect of decision autonomy on engagement is not positive per se but depends on the intraindividual characteristics, which must be of concern when decentralizing decision authority organization‐wide. Therefore, personnel selection and recruitment processes in self‐managing organizations should consider ideal decision autonomy and personality traits as assessment criteria.
What is in a number? Some reflections on disaster displacement modelling
Authors: Buhaug Halvard
Published: July 2023

The rise in global displacement has inspired a wave of quantitative comparative research in recent years. While deeper systematic knowledge on contextual determinants of disaster‐related mobility and associated risks is in high demand, quantitative modelling of human displacement should be exercised with care. In this commentary, I reflect on three central challenges related to the quality of available displacement statistics. Future scientific progress in this field would benefit tremendously from harmonization and validation of displacement data that separate between distinct mobility responses.
Double displacement of refugees in the context of the 2023 Turkey‐Syria earthquake
Authors: Sevinin Eda , Danış Didem , Sert Deniz
Published: July 2023

This commentary is based on our observations during our fieldwork in the earthquake region in Turkey that took place in February 6, 2023 in 11 provinces where 49% of the entire Syrian population in Turkey live. In this commentary, we focus on the case of Syrians, who have been subject to what we call double displacement. Syrian refugees who were already displaced due to the war and faced with many problems in establishing a new life in Turkey once again lost their homes and livelihoods due to the earthquake, exposing them to increased risks and vulnerability.
RETRACTED: Antibiofilm and antimicrobial activity of Lactobacillus cell free supernatant against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from burn wounds
Authors: Asadzadegan Reza , Haratian Negar , Sadeghi Mahsa , Maroufizadeh Saman , Mobayen Mohammadreza , Sedigh Ebrahim Saraei Hadi , Hasannejad‐Bibalan Meysam
Published: July 2023

The present study investigated the antimicrobial and anti‐biofilm effects of indigenous Lactobacillus probiotic strains on Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from burn wound infection in laboratory conditions. The effect of 7 probiotic strains isolated from infant faeces on the pathogenicity factors of P. aeruginosa, including protease, elastase, antibiofilm and antipyocyanin was measured. Also, diffusion methods in the well and micro broth dilution were used to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of probiotics. All tests were performed in triplicate. A negative control and a positive control were used for each test. SPSS version 22 software was used for statistical analysis, and a p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 30 clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa were isolated. The elastolytic activity of P. aeruginosa isolates decreased after adding Cell free supernatant (CFS) of each Lactobacillus. L1, L4, L5, and L6 strains had a 100% inhibitory effect on pathogen isolates. L3 and L7 strains had the lowest inhibitory effect. The inhibitory effect of CFS extracted from lactobacilli on protease production by P. aeruginosa. L1, L4, L5, and L6 strains had an inhibitory effect on all tested isolates. L2, L3, and L7 strains had a less inhibitory effect. L4 strain had the highest inhibitory effect on pyocyanin production by P. aeruginosa (50%), followed by L5 (43.3%), L1 (40%), and L6 (23.3%) strains. L3 and L7 strains had no inhibitory effect on the pyocyanin production of P. aeruginosa isolates. It was found that the CFS of 4 isolates (L1, L4, L5, and L6) was the most active extract and had a 100% inhibitory effect against biofilm formation of all P. aeruginosa strains. The L3 strain had the least inhibitory effect against the biofilm formation of pathogens. Overall, this study showed that probiotics could be promising alternatives to combat the pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa in burn wounds.
Methods for sampling wound fluid from venous leg ulcers for molecular analyses: A scoping review
Authors: McDaniel Jodi Christine , Kim Bohyun , McGowan Dina Rose
Published: July 2023

Determining the precise role of molecular factors present in venous leg ulcer exudate will expedite the identification of biomarkers that can optimally guide treatment. However, there is now no standardized approach for collecting, processing and storing wound fluid samples for molecular analyses. This scoping review was conducted to integrate and summarize the multiple types of methods being used currently in studies of venous leg ulcers for collecting, processing and storing wound fluid prior to analysis. PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Scopus databases were searched for eligible studies between 2012 and 2022. Nineteen studies were selected for this scoping review. Five primary methodological categories for wound fluid sampling were identified. The most commonly used collection method involved extracting the fluid from various absorbent materials, and the majority of studies centrifuged wound fluid before storing it at ultra‐low temperatures. This review found the wound fluid sampling methods among the included studies to be heterogeneous. Moreover, the data revealed no definitive patterns. There is a critical need to develop standardized wound fluid sampling methods in research to facilitate accurate comparisons of biomarker data across studies and a more rapid determination of biomarkers that can most effectively guide delivery of tailored venous leg ulcer treatments.
Family involvement in dementia special care units in nursing homes: A qualitative care ethical study into family experiences
Authors: Hovenga Nina , Landeweer Elleke , Vinckers Floor , Leget Carlo , Zuidema Sytse
Published: July 2023

Aim

To explore the moral dimension of family experiences with being involved in the care of their loved one with dementia in the nursing home, using the care ethical framework of Tronto.

Design

This qualitative study used a care ethical approach in which empirical data and care ethical theory were dialectically related and mutually informing.

Methods

Fifteen close family members of nursing home residents with dementia were interviewed between February 2020 and October 2020. Forty‐two interviews were conducted, based on a semi‐structured open‐ended design. A thematic narrative approach combined with the five phases of care as defined by Tronto was used to analyse the empirical data. Subsequently, Tronto's identified ethical qualities were used to identify the moral dimension of these empirical findings.

Results

We found that in the care process (1) family can find it difficult to recognize their loved one's care needs; (2) both family and staff are reluctant to discuss the allocation of responsibilities with each other; (3) family sometimes feels insecure when it comes to connecting with their loved one; (4) family is often reluctant to provide feedback to staff when they are critical about the care that has been given; and (5) family is generally mild in judging staff, due to staff shortages. The care ethical interpretation of these findings showed that the moral qualities of attentiveness, responsibility, competence, responsiveness, and solidarity are under pressure to a certain extent.

Conclusion

Family experiences moral distress during the care process, which hinders family involvement in nursing homes for people with dementia.

Impact

Nursing home staff can look for and pilot strategies focused on supporting families to act more in accordance with the moral qualities that are under pressure. This can improve family involvement in practice.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient/Public Contribution.

Implications for Practice/Policy

Nursing home staff paying more attention to families' emotional struggles related to the decline of their loved one, could help families to be more attentive to noticing true care needs of the resident. Both family and nursing home staff should take more often initiatives to evaluate the division of care responsibilities with each other. Nursing home staff should help family connect with their loved one during their visits if they experience difficulties in doing so. Nursing home staff taking more often initiatives to contact family and ask them how they perceive the care for their loved one, can positively affect the responsiveness of both family and staff. It would be helpful if nursing home management could ensure the presence of sufficient and qualified staff so that the first four phases of the care process are not hindered by the lack of staff.
Evidence of increasing juvenile white sharks' (Carcharodon carcharias) habitat use at the Northern Channel Islands
Authors: Freedman Ryan M. , Anderson James M. , Caldow Chris , Stirling Brian , Rex Patrick , Spurgeon Emily , McCullough Steve , Lyons Kady , May Jack , White Connor F. , Logan Ryan K. , Meese Emily , Burns Echelle S. , Clevenstine Alyssa J. , O' Sullivan John , Winkler Chuck , Duncan Lizzie , Cajandig Mari , Lowe Christopher G.
Published: July 2023

Juvenile white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) typically aggregate along coastal beaches; however, high levels of recruitment and shifting oceanographic conditions may be causing habitat use expansions. Telemetry data indicate increased habitat use at the Northern Channel Islands (California, USA) by juvenile white shark that may be in response to increased population density at aggregation locations, or anomalous oceanographic events that impact habitat use or expand available habitat. Findings illustrate the need for long‐term movement monitoring and understanding drivers of habitat use shifts and expansion to improve ecosystem management.
Physiologically relevant fluorescent assay for identification of 17β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 10 inhibitors
Authors: Schmidt Monika , Vaskova Michaela , Rotterova Aneta , Fiandova Pavlina , Miskerikova Marketa , Zemanova Lucie , Benek Ondrej , Musilek Kamil
Published: July 2023

Mitochondrial enzyme 17β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 10 (HSD10) is a potential molecular target for treatment of mitochondrial‐related disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Its over‐expression in AD brains is one of the critical factors disturbing the homeostasis of neuroprotective steroids and exacerbating amyloid beta (Aβ)‐mediated mitochondrial toxicity and neuronal stress. This study was focused on revalidation of the most potent HSD10 inhibitors derived from benzothiazolyl urea scaffold using fluorescent‐based enzymatic assay with physiologically relevant substrates of 17β‐oestradiol and allopregnanolone. The oestradiol‐based assay led to the identification of two nanomolar inhibitors (IC50 70 and 346 nM) differing from HSD10 hits revealed from the formerly used assay. Both identified inhibitors were found to be effective also in allopregnanolone‐based assay with non‐competitive or uncompetitive mode of action. In addition, both inhibitors were confirmed to penetrate the HEK293 cells and they were able to inhibit the HSD10 enzyme in the cellular environment. Both molecules seem to be potential lead structures for further research and development of HDS10 inhibitors.

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Patent foramen ovale in carcinoid heart disease: The potential role for and risks of percutaneous closure prior to cardiothoracic surgery
Authors: Douglas Sasha , Oelofse Tessa , Shah Tahir , Rooney Stephen , Arif Sayqa , Steeds Richard P.
Published: July 2023

Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are rare but once metastasised, can lead to the release of vasoactive substances into the systemic circulation, and the classical features of carcinoid syndrome (CS) such as flushing and diarrhoea. A consequence of CS is carcinoid heart disease (CHD) which primarily affects the right‐sided heart valves and can eventually lead to right heart failure. In this cohort, tricuspid and/or pulmonary valve replacement provides symptomatic relief. A patent foramen ovale (PFO) in patients with CHD can lead to the shunting of oxygen deficient blood to the systemic circulation causing hypoxaemia and reduced exercise tolerance. Additionally, the haemodynamic changes caused by regurgitant right‐sided heart valves can increase the patency of a PFO allowing the passage of vasoactive substances to the systemic circulation thereby affecting the left‐sided heart valves. We present data on the incidence of PFO in patients referred for surgery at our centre, in which the standard approach is to close the defect at time of cardiothoracic surgery. In addition, we present a series of four cases that highlight how the option of percutaneous PFO closure prior to open valve surgery may reduce haemodynamic instability and open a window of opportunity to enhance preoperative status. Percutaneous PFO closure then acts as a bridge to definitive cardiothoracic surgery, although there are risks in such an approach.
Implementation of precision medicine in healthcare—A European perspective
Authors: Stenzinger Albrecht , Moltzen Ejner K. , Winkler Eva , Molnar‐Gabor Fruzsina , Malek Nisar , Costescu Alexandru , Jensen Brigitte Nybo , Nowak Frédérique , Pinto Carmine , Ottersen Ole Petter , Schirmacher Peter , Nordborg Jenni , Seufferlein Thomas , Fröhling Stefan , Edsjö Anders , Garcia‐Foncillas Jesus , Normanno Nicola , Lundgren Bettina , Friedman Mikaela , Bolanos Natacha , Tatton‐Brown Katrina , Hill Sue , Rosenquist Richard
Published: July 2023

The technical development of high‐throughput sequencing technologies and the parallel development of targeted therapies in the last decade have enabled a transition from traditional medicine to personalized treatment and care. In this way, by using comprehensive genomic testing, more effective treatments with fewer side effects are provided to each patient—that is, precision or personalized medicine (PM). In several European countries—such as in England, France, Denmark, and Spain—the governments have adopted national strategies and taken “top‐down” decisions to invest in national infrastructure for PM. In other countries—such as Sweden, Germany, and Italy with regionally organized healthcare systems—the profession has instead taken “bottom‐up” initiatives to build competence networks and infrastructure to enable equal access to PM. In this review, we summarize key learnings at the European level on the implementation process to establish sustainable governance and organization for PM at the regional, national, and EU/international levels. We also discuss critical ethical and legal aspects of implementing PM, and the importance of access to real‐world data and performing clinical trials for evidence generation, as well as the need for improved reimbursement models, increased cross‐disciplinary education and patient involvement. In summary, PM represents a paradigm shift, and modernization of healthcare and all relevant stakeholders—that is, healthcare, academia, policymakers, industry, and patients—must be involved in this system transformation to create a sustainable, non‐siloed ecosystem for precision healthcare that benefits our patients and society at large.
Melatonin targets MoIcl1 and works synergistically with fungicide isoprothiolane in rice blast control
Authors: Bi Ruiqing , Li Renjian , Xu Zhenyi , Cai Huanyu , Zhao Juan , Zhou Yaru , Wu Bangting , Sun Peng , Yang Wei , Zheng Lu , Chen Xiao‐Lin , Luo Chao‐Xi , Teng Huailong , Li Qiang , Li Guotian
Published: July 2023

Melatonina natural harmless molecule—displays versatile roles in human health and crop disease control such as for rice blast. Rice blast, caused by the filamentous fungus Magnaporthe oryzae, is one devastating disease of rice. Application of fungicides is one of the major measures in the control of various crop diseases. However, fungicide resistance in the pathogen and relevant environmental pollution are becoming serious problems. By screening for possible synergistic combinations, here, we discovered an eco‐friendly combination for rice blast control, melatonin, and the fungicide isoprothiolane. These compounds together exhibited significant synergistic inhibitory effects on vegetative growth, conidial germination, appressorium formation, penetration, and plant infection by M. oryzae. The combination of melatonin and isoprothiolane reduced the effective concentration of isoprothiolane by over 10‐fold as well as residual levels of isoprothiolane. Transcriptomics and lipidomics revealed that melatonin and isoprothiolane synergistically interfered with lipid metabolism by regulating many common targets, including the predicted isocitrate lyase‐encoding gene MoICL1. Furthermore, using different techniques, we show that melatonin and isoprothiolane interact with MoIcl1. This study demonstrates that melatonin and isoprothiolane function synergistically and can be used to reduce the dosage and residual level of isoprothiolane, potentially contributing to the environment‐friendly and sustainable control of crop diseases.
Winter is coming—The role of seasonality through the lens of the rodent virome
Authors: Chang Wei‐shan , Wille Michelle
Published: July 2023

Rodent virus communities (viromes) are overrepresented with zoonotic viruses, and as such are a key host system for the study of zoonotic viruses. However, the extent of viral diversity beyond characterized zoonotic viruses, and the factors that modulate the viromes of rodents remain opaque. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Raghwani et al. (2023) use rodents as a model to understand the role of seasonality in dictating virome abundance and composition—a factor known to play an important role in most animal one‐host, one‐pathogen systems. These data are not only highly relevant to rodents, but have broad applications across understanding and disentangling animal virome ecology.