bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal patterns of juvenile fish assemblages in the surf zones of tropical sandy beaches along Gaolong Bay, Hainan Island, China
Authors: Xia Wentong , Miao Zhongbo , Chen Kai , Lu Ying , Wang Sai , Zhu Junying , Xie Songguang
Published: August 2024

Aim

Surf zones are crucial nursery habitats for the early life stages of fish species associated with typical coastal ecosystems. However, little is known about the temporal patterns and drivers of fish assemblages in tropical surf zones. This study aimed to assess the (1) main changes in fish community structure throughout 1 year, (2) seasonal dynamic patterns in fish assemblages, and (3) key factors influencing fish assemblages in the tropical surf zones.

Location

Gaolong Bay, Wenchang City, Hainan Island, China.

Methods

Fish sampling was conducted monthly from June 2021 to May 2022 using a beach seine net. Fish species were identified using both morphological and molecular analyses. Kruskal–Wallis test, analysis of similarity, non‐metric multidimensional scaling analysis, and similarity percentage analysis were used to investigate the temporal fish assemblage patterns. Generalised additive models and canonical correspondence analysis were used to assess how environmental variables influence fish assemblages.

Results

We identified 83 fish species, which were grouped into three ecotypes based on their primary habitat: coral reef‐seagrass‐associated species (CS) (35), mangrove‐estuarine‐associated species (ME) (30), and common coastal‐estuarine‐associated species (CE) (18). Most captured individuals were juveniles, and fish abundance and diversity were highest in May. Most CS species were abundant between March and May. ME and most CE species were dominant from June to August, and Mugilidae (CE) was abundant between October and February. Furthermore, surf fish assemblages were substantially influenced by tidal level, water temperature, conductivity, pH, turbidity, and dissolved oxygen.

Conclusions

Juvenile fish were abundant in May and fish species with three ecotypes alternate in the surf zones throughout the year. Counter to much current thinking, March maybe the spawn peak of most fish species in the studied area, and we suggest that the fishing ban period could start from March instead of May in the inshore areas of Hainan Island.
Comparing clinical outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus after ischaemic stroke: Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors users versus non‐users. A propensity score matching National Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Tzu‐Yang , Lee Hsin‐Fu , Chan Yi‐Hsin , Chuang Chi , Li Pei‐Ru , Yeh Yung‐Hsin , Su Hung‐Chi , See Lai‐Chu
Published: August 2024

Aim

This nationwide cohort study evaluated the impact of sodium–glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) after ischaemic stroke (IS), aiming to compare clinical outcomes between SGLT2i‐treated patients and those not receiving SGLT2i.

Materials and Methods

Utilizing Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database, we identified 707 patients with T2DM treated with SGLT2i and 27 514 patients not treated with SGLT2i after an IS, respectively, from 1 May 2016 to 31 December 2019. Propensity score matching was applied to balance baseline characteristics. The follow‐up period extended from the index date (3 months after the index acute IS) until the independent occurrence of the study outcomes, 6 months after discontinuation of the index drug, or the end of the study period (31 December 2020), whichever came first.

Results

After propensity score matching, compared with the non‐SGLT2i group (n = 2813), the SGLT2i group (n = 707) exhibited significantly lower recurrent IS rates (3.605% per year vs. 5.897% per year; hazard ratio: 0.55; 95% confidence interval: 0.34–0.88; p = 0.0131) and a significant reduction in all‐cause mortality (5.396% per year vs. 7.489% per year; hazard ratio: 0.58; 95% confidence interval: 0.39–0.85; p = 0.0058). No significant differences were observed in the rates of acute myocardial infarction, cardiovascular death, heart failure hospitalization, or lower limb amputation.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate significantly lower risks of recurrent IS and all‐cause mortality among patients with T2DM receiving SGLT2i treatment. Further studies are required to validate these results and investigate the underlying mechanisms behind the observed effects.
Propagule pressure from historic U.S. plant sales explains establishment but not invasion
Authors: Fertakos Matthew E. , Bradley Bethany A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction history, including propagule pressure and residence time, has been proposed as a primary driver of biological invasions. However, it is unclear whether introduction history increases the likelihood that a species will be invasive or only the likelihood that it will be established. Using a dataset of non‐native species historically available as ornamental plants in the conterminous United States, we investigated how introduction history relates to these stages of invasion. Introduction history was highly significant and a strong predictor of establishment, but only marginally significant and a poor predictor of invasive success. Propagule pressure predicted establishment better than residence time, with species likely to be established if they were introduced to only eight locations. These findings suggest that ongoing plant introductions will lead to widespread establishment but may not directly increase invasive success. Instead, other characteristics, like plant traits and local scale processes, may better predict whether a species becomes invasive.
Foundational Competencies in Educational Measurement: A Rejoinder
Authors: Ho Andrew D. , Ackerman Terry A. , Bandalos Deborah L. , Briggs Derek C. , Everson Howard T. , Lottridge Susan M. , Madison Matthew J. , Sinharay Sandip , Rodriguez Michael C. , Russell Michael , von Davier Alina A. , Wind Stefanie A.
Published: August 2024

What are foundational competencies in educational measurement? We published a framework for these foundational competencies in this journal (Ackerman et al. 2024) and were grateful to receive eight commentaries raising a number of important questions about the framework and its implications. We identified five cross‐cutting recommendations among the eight commentaries relating to (1) our process and purpose, (2) Artificial Intelligence, (3) ethical competencies, (4) qualitative, critical, and culturally responsive commentaries, and (5) intersecting professions in, for example, classroom assessment and content development. In this rejoinder, we respond to these five recommendations and to each of the eight commentaries in turn. We hope that discussion and consensus about foundational competencies in educational measurement continue to advance in our journals and our field.
Fish size structures in lakes of the Lower Mississippi River floodplain
Authors: Miranda L. E. , Dembkowski D. J.
Published: August 2024

The Lower Mississippi River has a floodplain that includes >1350 perennial lakes carved by shifts in river courses and other hydro‐fluvial processes over eons. Notwithstanding their similar provenances, these waterbodies exhibit an immense variety of morphologies and successional stages that illustrate their natural trajectory from aquatic to forested wetlands. A result of this geographical, morphological and temporal diversity is dynamic and varied fish communities. We examined how size structures of fish communities in these floodplain lakes were associated with key in‐lake and off‐lake environmental drivers.

Fish lengths were collected with standardised procedures in a sample of 30 of these lakes to construct a lake‐by‐length group matrix. Likewise, in‐lake and off‐lake environmental descriptors were collected to construct a lake‐by‐covariate matrix. Distance‐based linear models were used to assess associations between fish size structure and environmental descriptors.

Smaller fish were typically associated with increasing levels of turbidity, chlorophyll‐a, phycocyanin and surrounding agriculture. Shallow, hypereutrophic floodplain lakes associated with agricultural landscapes and reduced connectivity experience harsh physicochemical environments. These conditions appeared to hinder the formation of sustained fish communities but may confer a survival advantage to juveniles or small short‐lived species. Conversely, larger fish were associated with increasing lake depth, water clarity, connectivity, and extent of surrounding forests‐wetlands. Enhanced stability and size structure were observed in communities residing in deeper and clearer lakes, suggesting that these conditions facilitated the development of longer‐lived species spanning multiple age groups. The enhanced connectivity that facilitated this increased stability also permitted the presence of larger itinerant species.

Size‐structure assessments can serve as a valuable ecological and biodiversity indicator in floodplain lakes.

Size‐structure assessments could supplement and, depending on objectives, even supplant conventional taxonomic analyses, and enhance surveillance of this vast and important natural resource.
Pilot study evaluating treatment with sumatriptan for moderate to severe post‐traumatic headache: A phase 2 open‐label study
Authors: Sharma Tara L. , Lucas Sylvia , Barber Jason , Hoffman Jeanne M.
Published: August 2024

Objective

Our primary outcome was to determine the feasibility of patients with post‐traumatic headache (PTH) keeping a daily headache diary and using sumatriptan as directed. Secondary outcomes include determining if sumatriptan is effective in aborting PTH and whether headache resolution is dependent on PTH phenotype.

Background

PTH is prevalent and persistent after traumatic brain injury, yet there have been few studies evaluating the effects of pharmacological treatments in individuals with PTH.

Methods

This is a single‐arm, prospective, non‐randomized phase 2 clinical trial registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01854385) and conducted from 2013 to 2017. Data analysis was completed in 2022. Of the 299 participants screened, 40 were enrolled in the study. Participants kept a headache diary documenting headache characteristics and severity. Headache characteristics were used to determine PTH phenotypes of migraine‐like, probable migraine‐like, or non‐migraine‐like. Participants reported whether sumatriptan was used for their headache, their response to the medication, if a second dose was taken, and their response to the second dose.

Results

A total of 15 participants out of the 40 enrolled (mean [SD] age, 41.9 [14.2] years, and 53% [21/40] male), met the criteria for the use of sumatriptan, and completed all assessments. Average headache diary compliance rate for the final month of the study was 80% (372/465). While sumatriptan was used for only 19% (122/654) of all reported headaches, 72% (88/122) of those headaches resolved within 2 h of taking the medication. Resolution of headaches with sumatriptan was not significantly different among headache phenotypes (migraine‐like: 22/38 [58%], probable migraine‐like: 24/29 [83%], non‐migraine‐like: 6/15 [40%]; p = 0.154).

Conclusions

A daily headache diary is feasible for tracking headache symptoms. Preliminary results also suggest that sumatriptan, a migraine‐specific medication, may be beneficial for the treatment of PTH of different clinical phenotypes. Future studies, such as a phase 3 clinical trial with a larger sample size, are needed to better understand the efficacy of sumatriptan in the treatment of PTH.
Genetic alteration of SLCO1B3 defines constitutional indocyanine green excretory defect in patients who underwent hepatectomy
Authors: Tanimoto Meguri , Nishioka Yujiro , Inagaki Yoshinori , Kokudo Takashi , Ishizawa Takeaki , Arita Junichi , Akamatsu Nobuhisa , Kaneko Junichi , Hasegawa Kiyoshi
Published: August 2024

Aim

Constitutional indocyanine green (ICG) excretory defects must be distinguished when assessing liver function. The absence of OATP1B3 expression due to homogenous alterations in the SLCO1B3 gene has been recently reported to induce ICG excretory defects; however, its association with the clinical examinations and the clinical implications of heterogeneous SLCO1B3 gene alteration remain unclear.

Methods

OATP1B3 expression was evaluated in 49 patients who underwent hepatectomy after evaluation of the ICG retention rate at 15 min (ICGR15) and technetium‐99 m‐galactosyl serum albumin (99mTc‐GSA) hepatic scintigraphy. Additionally, alterations in SLCO1B3 were analyzed in patients without OATP1B3 expression. Subsequently, 59 patients who underwent hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) were analyzed.

Results

Of 49 patients, 6 (12%) had absent OATP1B3 expression. They had significantly higher ICGR15 value (74.7% vs. 23.5%; p < 0.0001), better modified albumin–bilirubin (ALBI) grade (≤grade 2A, 100% vs. 42%; p = 0.010), more normal 99mTc‐GSA hepatic scintigraphy (100% vs. 28%; p = 0.0003), and better pathological liver fibrosis (F0–1, 100% vs. 49%; p = 0.027) compared to those with OATP1B3 expression. Three available frozen blocks of cases without OATP1B3 expression showed homozygous alterations in SLCO1B3. Of 59 patients with CRLM in normal liver background, five (8.5%) had heterozygous insertion in SLCO1B3, however they had no difference in ICGR15 values or other clinical findings compared to the other patients.

Conclusions

Constitutional ICG excretory defects may be defined by the complete absence of OATP1B3 expression. The modified ALBI grade and 99mTc‐GSA hepatic scintigraphy were useful for detecting constitutional ICG excretory defects.
Financial report readability and audit fees: Evidence from China
Authors: Yuan Dongliang , Yang Xiaojuan , Qin Rong , Yu Jianglong
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the impact of the readability of financial reports on audit fees. Moreover, it explores how various contextual factors affect the relationship between readability and audit fees from the perspectives of information provision, transmission and reception. Considering listed firms in the Chinese market, this study demonstrates the significant negative effect of financial report readability on audit fees. However, this association is weakened by annual report similarity, the board secretary's social capital and auditors' industry expertise. Furthermore, this study demonstrates that audit fees increase because of both prolonged audit delays and information asymmetry resulting from low readability. By presenting empirical evidence to substantiate the rationale and necessity for enhanced textual readability requirements, this research can provide valuable insights for corporations to improve the effectiveness of their information communication to external stakeholders, which is very important for enhancing financial report quality and aligns with the primary focus of standard setters.
The burden of rheumatologic disease in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians
Authors: Sines Jason , Cai Ken , Cashman Belinda , Abbott Penelope , Zengin Ayse , Manolios Nicholas , Wong Peter K. K.
Published: August 2024

The objective of this article is to summarise the current knowledge regarding the prevalence of six rheumatological conditions in indigenous Australians – rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), osteoporosis (OSP), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), gout and musculoskeletal (MSK) pain. Online medical literature databases were searched for ‘indigenous’, ‘Aboriginal’ and ‘Torres Strait Islander’, as well as the names of the six conditions. Other included search terms were ‘crystal’, ‘urate’, ‘arthritis’ and ‘arthropathy’. No limitations were placed on publication data or language. Forty‐five articles examining the prevalence of the six conditions were identified. Based on the published literature, SLE appears to have a higher prevalence, while RA appears to have a lower prevalence in indigenous Australians compared to the non‐indigenous community. MSK pain is prevalent, has a significant impact on indigenous people and is perceived as an important area of need. There is a paucity of data regarding these conditions in indigenous Australians. This may be impacted by the uncertainty of case ascertainment by self‐report, differences in disease phenotypes and prevalence between the metropolitan compared to the rural or remote indigenous population, and difficulty with access to healthcare. Further studies in conjunction with local indigenous communities are needed to accurately determine the burden of rheumatological disease in the indigenous population. This will assist with resource and workforce planning to deliver culturally appropriate interventions. Strategies for future clinical work and research include the development and dissemination of culturally safe rheumatology resources, rheumatology training of Aboriginal Health Workers and wider integration of rheumatology clinics into community‐controlled Aboriginal Health Services.
Specificity of gut microbial community in three ecologically similar species of planthoppers with different host plant ranges
Authors: Wang Yanhui , Mai Huirong , Zhou Jingxian , Zhang Yuhan , Liu Yanmin , Zou Yan , Chen Fajun
Published: August 2024

The three ecologically similar species of hemipteran sucking insects, brown planthopper (BPH) Nilaparvata lugens, small brown planthopper (SBPH) Laodelphax striatellus and white‐backed planthopper (WBPH) Sogatella furcifera are destructive pests causing severe damage to rice throughout Asia, but they have different host plants that BPH is monophagous insect just feeding rice, WBPH and SBPH are oligophagous insects additionally feeding wheat and barley and SBPH can also feed maize. This study was investigated the gut bacterial communities in BPH, WBPH and SBPH by high‐throughput amplicon sequencing in order to explain the differences in host range (SBPH>WBPH>BPH) and feeding habit (BPH with monophagy vs. WBPH and SBPH with oligophagy) of the three ecologically similar species of planthoppers. It was revealed that the gut bacterial flora in BPH was the most complex, and that in SBPH was the simplest. The diversity of the gut bacterial community in BPH was significantly higher than that in WBPH and SBPH, respectively, there was not only significant difference in α‐diversity metrics but also in β‐diversity metrics. KEGG enrichment analysis furtherly indicated that there was significantly different in the relative abundance of some functional categories (including those related to the biosynthesis of amino acids, fatty acids, lipids and carbohydrate) among BPH, WBPH and SBPH, which were closely related to their nutrient absorption and metabolism. It is presumed that the differences in abundance and composition of the gut bacteria in BPH, WBPH and SBPH may lead to different nutrient absorption and metabolism, which furtherly alter their host range and feeding habit.
Development of an auxiliary heating system for a solar dryer in Bangladesh
Authors: Roy Nibir Kanti , Tasnim Nishat , Saha Chayan Kumer , Mimmi Sumaiya Fardouse , Kabir Mahjabin
Published: August 2024

Solar dryers are a convenient option for drying fruits and vegetables, but they largely depend on climatic conditions. Climate dependency makes them vulnerable to dry products and maintain the quality of the products accurately. To mitigate this problem, an electric auxiliary heating system (AHS) was designed, constructed, and tested for a solar dryer in Bangladesh. The developed system had three parts: an auxiliary heating unit, an air duct, and hot air convection pipes. The performance testing of the AHS was done in three experimental trials. The average air velocity from the auxiliary heating unit was found to be between 3.57 and 3.80 m s−1. Trial runs showed a maximum drying temperature of 66.97°C, while the average value remained between 35.10 and 43.26°C. During the off‐sunshine hours, the AHS rose the average temperature by 1.00–12.84°C above ambient and continued the drying operation. Overall, the solar dryer with AHS saved 30%–36% sunshine hours than open sun drying, and its efficiency was estimated as 14.55%–21.9%. Regression analysis showed that the Page and Modified Page models were suitable for predicting the drying kinetics of cabbage samples. Through the results of the study, the developed AHS showed potential for significantly improving the solar drying process. It could be an effective measure for establishing a weather‐independent drying solution to reduce the postharvest losses of perishable agro‐products. Further improvements to the auxiliary heating unit, implying an Internet of Things (IoT)‐based control system will facilitate an improved and user‐convenient drying operation.

Practical Applications

Postharvest losses are prevalent for perishable agricultural products (fruits and vegetables) in Bangladesh and are considered a prime reason for the inhabitants to consume a less nutritious diet than recommended. An appropriate dry chain technology that is affordable, weather‐independent, continuous, and fast in operation could be the optimal solution to this problem. Numerous types of solar hybrid dryers with different additional heating sources (electricity, biomass, LPG, etc.) have been investigated around the world. However, the extent of these research endeavors is very limited in Bangladesh. The study was thus conducted to develop a novel auxiliary heating system for a solar dryer in Bangladesh and check its technical viability. Our results indicate that an electric auxiliary heating system can be an efficient option for drying fruits and vegetables irrespective of the weather and can substantially reduce postharvest losses in Bangladesh.
Research on drying characteristics of corn kernel based on COMSOL porous media model
Authors: Liu Dingtong , Liu Zeyu , Liu Shaodong , Feng Tai
Published: August 2024

Drying is an effective way to solve corn mildew. The heat and humidity flow interface in COMSOL Multiphysics heat transfer module was used to coupling fluid flow, water transport and heat transfer in multiple physical fields, and corn was used as a porous medium for simulation analysis, aiming to find the change rules of temperature field and humidity field. The research shows that the multi‐component model and method should be given priority in practice. The higher the hot air temperature is, the higher the average temperature of corn kernels is, and the faster the relative humidity decreases. The drying rate of corn is the highest at 348 K, and the hot air temperature should be appropriately increased at 333 K denaturation temperature. The higher the wind speed, the better the drying effect of corn kernels, but the improvement of drying effect will decrease with the increase of wind speed. Appropriately increase the wind speed between 2 and 4 m/s to improve the drying efficiency while avoiding excessive energy consumption. The mass transfer resistance of the pericarp cannot be ignored. The drying time of corn kernels closer to the hot air entrance is shorter, and the corn kernels close to the hot air exit are prone to humidity accumulation. Multiple hot air intakes should be set up to reduce the occurrence of uneven drying.

Practical applications

Corn is prone to mildew after harvest, resulting in resource waste and economic loss, so it is of great significance to dry corn efficiently. Corn is a typical porous medium, and the research on it can provide the basis for drying other porous medium grains. According to different components, the model of single granule and multi‐granule was established respectively. Use COMSOL Multiphysics simulation software to gain a deeper understanding of the complex physical processes involved in the drying process and provide valuable insights for industrial applications. COMSOL software was used to study the drying condition of corn under the synergic action of multiple physical fields, and effective drying strategies and measures to improve the structure of air drying silo were put forward.
Is more care recipient time at home also a family caregiver‐centered quality of life measure?
Authors: Van Houtven Courtney H. , Stechuchak Karen M. , Dennis Paul A. , Decosimo Kasey , Whitfield Chelsea L. , Sperber Nina R. , Hastings S. Nicole , Shepherd‐Banigan Megan , Kaufman Brystana G. , Smith Valerie A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Time in healthcare facilities is associated with worse patient quality of life (QoL); however, impact on family caregiver QoL is unknown. We evaluate care recipient days not at home—days in the emergency department (ED), inpatient (IP) care, and post‐acute care (PAC)—to understand how care recipient days not at home correspond to family caregiver QoL.

Methods

Secondary data were linked to care recipient utilization data. Elastic net machine learning models were used to evaluate the impact of a single day of utilization in each setting on binary QoL outcomes. We also compared composite weighted and unweighted “days not at home” variables. Two time periods, 6 and 18 months, were used to predict three caregiver QoL measures (self‐rated health, depressive symptoms, and subjective burden).

Results

In the 6‐month timeframe, a single day of ED utilization was associated with increased likelihood of poor QoL for all three assessed outcomes (range: 1.4%–3.2%). A day of PAC was associated to a modest degree with increased likelihood of caregiver burden (0.2%) and depressive symptoms (0.1%), with a slight protective effect for self‐rated health (−0.1%). An IP day had a slight protective effect (−0.2 to −0.1%). At 18 months, ED and IP had similar, albeit more muted, relationships with caregiver burden and depressive symptoms. PAC had a slight protective effect for caregiver burden (−0.1%). Cumulative days in all settings combined generally was not associated with caregiver QoL.

Conclusion

Whereas total care recipient time away from home had some negative spillovers to family caregivers, the countervailing effects of unique settings on caregiver QoL may mask net QoL effects. This finding limits the utility of a single care recipient home time measure as a valid caregiver‐centered measure. Considering cumulative care recipient time in individual settings separately may be needed to reveal the true net effects on caregiver QoL.
Environmental analysis of returnable packaging systems in different eCommerce business and packaging management models
Authors: Park Jonghun , Waqar Zuha , Snyder William Ralph
Published: August 2024

There is growing environmental concern regarding the increasing quantity of packages in retail eCommerce. This study investigated the environmental impact of two returnable packaging formats, performing life cycle assessment (LCA) case studies based on the Canadian apparel eCommerce market. In case study 1, the brand owner sold and shipped its products to final consumers using an expendable mailer and a returnable mailer that was managed and supplied via the centralized model. In case study 2, the brand owner rented its products to final consumers and shipped them using an expendable corrugated paperboard box and a returnable box that was managed and supplied via the decentralized model. Comparative, contribution, and sensitivity analyses were conducted to analyze and compare the environmental performance of these packaging options. For case study 1, the LCA revealed that the returnable mailer had greater impact than the expandable mailer in 9 of the 10 environmental impact categories, even if the returnable mailer was reused for 40 cycles and the final consumer was in the same city as the brand owner; this was primarily due to the length of transportation. For case study 2, the returnable box had smaller environmental impact than the expendable corrugated paperboard box in 6 of the 10 environmental impact categories, even though the brand owner shipped packages to final consumers a cumulative distance of 9000 km from its starting location. The overall results imply that the environmental burden of returnable packaging is primarily affected by total trip distance and the number of reuses.
A business value framework for industrial symbiosis
Authors: Mirata Murat , Lindfors Axel , Kambanou Marianna Lena
Published: August 2024

Industrial symbiosis can be seen as a collaborative process where actors jointly identify, develop, and maintain resource management innovations, primarily related to secondary material and energy flows, to reduce waste generation and increase resource efficiency. Although industrial symbiosis is commonly recognized and promoted as a process creating business values for involved businesses, knowledge of what kind of values are created and how remains unstructured—and possibly incomplete. This is problematic because, without wider considerations as to what business values can be created through industrial symbiosis, the concept may not garner sufficient support from businesses and policy makers. Therefore, this paper aims to develop and present a framework that captures the wide range of business value propositions of industrial symbiosis, including benefits and sacrifices, along with their enabling mechanisms. The framework was developed based on a synthesis of the literature and interviews with actors involved with existing industrial symbiosis networks and is divided into four domains: costs, revenues, risks, and soft values. Beyond providing an overview of industrial symbiosis business values, the framework has additional uses, such as assisting in negotiations of relationship governance terms, including pricing and compensation mechanisms.
Expanding Hepatitis C Virus Treatment in the New Mexico State Prison System: Using the ECHO Model for Provider and Prison Peer Education
Authors: Thornton Karla A. , Deming Paulina D. , Archer Gaelyn R. D. , Ceniceros Juan A. , Tomedi Laura E. , Selvage David , Jablonski David , Rowan Daniel H. , Paul Dina , Asonganyi Wenceslaus , Arora Sanjeev
Published: August 2024

It is critical to address hepatitis C virus (HCV) in carceral settings to achieve worldwide elimination of the virus. We describe New Mexico's (NM) experience expanding HCV treatment in state prisons, supplemented with Project ECHO (ECHO; virtual mentorship through guided practice) and the NM Peer Education Program (NMPEP). We describe how using these programs may be a model for expanding treatment in prisons globally. ECHO, NM Corrections Department (NMCD) and Wexford Health Services (WHS) collaborate to treat HCV in state prisons and increase HCV knowledge among incarcerated persons using NMPEP. Each person arriving in prison is tested for HCV and those with active infection receive baseline labs, which are reviewed. Patients not meeting criteria for simplified treatment are presented to ECHO for expert guidance. Otherwise, patients are treated by WHS without consultation. NMPEP provides patient‐to‐patient education in prisons, addressing HCV myths and exploring treatment refusals. From December 2020 to June 2023, 3603 people had HCV viremia. In this study, 1685 people started treatment: 1280 were treated using the simplified algorithm and 405 were presented to ECHO. Of the 988 people who completed treatment and had sustained virologic response (SVR) labs drawn, 89.2% achieved SVR (i.e., cure). Most of the 107 people who did not achieve SVR had presumed reinfection. NMPEP trained 148 peer educators who educated 3832 peers about HCV prevention and treatment. HCV treatment in prisons can be expanded by implementing simplified treatment algorithms, use of the ECHO model for patients with advanced disease and peer education.
Comparison of fibroblast growth factor 19 concentrations between dogs with and without gallbladder mucoceles
Authors: Truong Vy Ngoc Yen , Liu Chin‐Chi , Myers Jillian , Miller Mayzie , Yang Amanda , Lee Jeongha , Welborn Nancy , Johnston Andrea N.
Published: August 2024

Background

Fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) is an enterohepatic hormone the synthesis of which is stimulated by bile acid activation of the nuclear farnesoid X receptor (FXR) in ileal enterocytes. Increased production of FGF19 downregulates hepatocyte bile acid synthesis and gluconeogenesis, while concurrently upregulating hepatocyte glycogenesis and gallbladder (GB) filling. The physiologic impact of this regulatory cycle is illustrated in cholecystectomized humans, in whom the disturbed meal‐related flux of GB bile decreases serum FGF19 concentrations.

Objective

Determine if serum FGF19 concentrations are lower in dogs with clinical GB mucoceles (GBMs) than in control dogs.

Animals

Seven dogs with GBM diagnosed using abdominal ultrasonography, biochemical markers, and GB histopathology. Forty‐two control dogs without gastrointestinal or hepatobiliary disorders also were evaluated. Health status of controls was assessed by physical examination and diagnostic hematologic and biochemical test results.

Methods

Prospective cross‐sectional study to compare fasting plasma or serum FGF19 concentrations between groups. Concentrations of FGF19 were quantified by a commercially available FGF19 ELISA.

Results

Concentrations of FGF19 were significantly lower in dogs with clinical GBM (median, 14.0 pg/mL; range, 12.8‐67.2) than in control dogs (median, 145.3 pg/mL; range, 36.5‐285.1).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

In dogs, GBM is associated with significantly decreased serum FGF19 concentrations. We speculate that this finding reflects compromised GB contraction and decreased enterohepatic circulation of bile flow. Subnormal FGF19 concentrations may influence bile acid synthesis and hepatic metabolism.
Overcoming barriers and improving outcomes: teachers' perspectives on using narrative videogames to teach literacy/English
Authors: Aggleton Jen , Mannard Emily , Aljanahi Mona Humaid , Ehret Christian
Published: August 2024

Research strongly supports the use of narrative videogames in the literacy/English classroom. However, for many teachers, incorporating videogames into their teaching practice is highly challenging. This article offers new insights into the potential of videogames as a pedagogical tool for literacy/English by exploring the barriers that teachers face when teaching with videogames, identifying how these barriers might be overcome and assessing whether the benefits of narrative videogames outweigh the practical difficulties of using them in the classroom. This participatory multiple‐case study explores the experiences of six teachers, working in a range of contexts, who each undertook an action research project to assess the barriers to and benefits of teaching literacy/English with narrative videogames. The findings show that although the participants faced barriers related to practical considerations, game choice, pedagogical knowledge and negative attitudes, almost all barriers could be overcome, and the benefits of learning far outweighed the difficulties faced. This article offers a new model for how to overcome barriers to using videogames to teach literacy/English and makes recommendations for both educational practice and the games industry.
High histamine levels are associated with acute‐on‐chronic liver failure and liver‐related death in patients with advanced chronic liver disease
Authors: Schwarz Michael , Simbrunner Benedikt , Jachs Mathias , Hartl Lukas , Balcar Lorenz , Bauer David J. M. , Semmler Georg , Hofer Benedikt S. , Scheiner Bernhard , Pinter Matthias , Stättermayer Albert F. , Trauner Michael , Reiberger Thomas , Mandorfer Mattias
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

The role of histamine in advanced chronic liver disease (ACLD) is poorly understood. We investigated plasma histamine levels across ACLD stages and their prognostic value.

Methods

We included patients with evidence of ACLD, defined by portal hypertension (hepatic venous pressure gradient [HVPG] ≥6 mmHg) and/or a liver stiffness measurement by transient elastography ≥10 kPa, who underwent HVPG measurement between 2017 and 2020. Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) and/or liver‐related death were defined as composite endpoint.

Results

Of 251 patients, 82.5% had clinically significant portal hypertension (median HVPG: 17 mmHg [interquartile range (IQR) 12–21]) and 135 patients (53.8%) were decompensated at baseline.

Median plasma histamine was 8.5 nmol/L (IQR: 6.4–11.5), 37.1% of patients showed elevated values (>9.9 nmol/L). Histamine levels did not differ significantly across Child‐Turcotte‐Pugh (CTP) stages nor strata of model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) or HVPG. Histamine levels correlated with markers of circulatory dysfunction (i.e. sodium, renin and aldosterone).

During a median follow‐up of 29.2 months, 68 patients developed ACLF or liver‐related death. In univariate as well as in multivariate analysis (adjusting for age, sex, HVPG as well as either MELD, clinical stage, and serum albumin or CTP and serum sodium), elevated histamine levels remained associated with the composite endpoint. CTP‐based multivariate model adjusted sub‐distribution hazard ratio (asHR): 1.010 (95% CI: 1.004–1.021), p < .001; MELD‐based multivariate model asHR: 1.030 (95% CI: 1.017–1.040), p < .001.

Conclusion

High levels of histamine were linked to circulatory dysfunction in ACLD patients and independently associated with increased risks of ACLF or liver‐related death. Further mechanistic studies on the link between histamine signalling and development of hyperdynamic circulation and ACLF are warranted.
What is the influence of maternal weight gain in different gestational clinical conditions on the prole weight in pre‐school age?
Authors: Mariot Márcia Dornelles Machado , Kretzer Daniela Cortés , Becker Patrícia Cemin , Nunes Isadora Musse , Goldani Marcelo Zubaran , Bernardi Juliana Rombaldi , da Silva Clécio Homrich
Published: August 2024

The aim of the current study was to assess the influence of maternal weight gain in different clinical gestational conditions on the child's weight at pre‐school age. This was a longitudinal observational study of a prospective and controlled multiple cohort of 372 mother–child pairs with four causal groups of different adverse intrauterine environments (smoking, diabetic, hypertensive and intrauterine growth‐restricted pregnant women) and a control group, in the period of, from 2011 to 2016 in three hospitals in Porto Alegre (Brazil). Sociodemographic, prenatal and perinatal data were analysed. Gestational weight gain (GWG) was categorised as ‘insufficient’, ‘adequate’ and ‘excessive’. The generalised estimation equations (GEE) model was used to assess changes in the z‐score of the child's body mass index from birth to pre‐school age according to the GWG and gestational group. The child's GWG and weight gain were adjusted for maternal age and education, marital status, family income, pregnancy planning, number of children, prepregnancy BMI, prenatal consultations and type of delivery. A triple interaction effect was observed involving the gestational group, weight gain and study time (p = 0.020) through an adjusted model. Maternal weight gain above the recommended is associated with a significant increase in the child's z − BMI score over time, except for children from pregnant smokers. Children from diabetic mothers , hypertensive mothers and the control group who had a weight gain above that recommended during pregnancy changed their nutritional status from eutrophic to overweight, becoming obese in the DM and hypertension groups and overweight in control. Monitoring of the GWG, especially in the presence of hypertensive diseases and DM, should be effective to prevent children from developing overweight or obesity in pre‐school age with an important impact on health conditions in the future.
Explaining change in linguistic voting: The case of Catalonia
Authors: Orriols Lluis , Simón Pablo
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we investigate the evolving impact of linguistic voting and its relationship with values and preferences in Catalonia. Our central argument posits that both bottom‐up and top‐down dynamics serve as complementary and interactive explanations for ethnolinguistic voting. On the one hand, it could be expected that, over time, the influence of language on party choice would diminish as Catalan became more widespread among the population. On the other, we expect polarisation to push in the opposite direction, increasing the significance of language in party voting through national identity, strategically activated by political elites. We empirically demonstrate that language has remained a strong predictor of the nationalist vote using data on regional elections in Catalonia from the Center for Sociological Research (Centro de Investigaciones Sociológicas, CIS). We show that a key mechanism accounting for this relates to parties' strategies to shape the linkage between language and identity, thereby polarising the political competition.
Deep learning radiomics based on ultrasound images for the assisted diagnosis of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Tian Shuyuan , Yu Yonghong , Shi Kangjian , Jiang Yunwen , Song Huachun , Wang Yuting , Yan Xiaoqian , Zhong Yu , Shao Guoliang
Published: August 2024

Aim

This study aimed to explore the value of ultrasound (US) images in chronic kidney disease (CKD) screening by constructing a CKD screening model based on grey‐scale US images.

Methods

According to the CKD diagnostic criteria, 1049 patients from Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province were retrospectively enrolled in the study. A total of 4365 renal US images were collected from these patients. Convolutional neural networks were used for feature extractions and a screening model was constructed by fusing ResNet34 and texture features to identify CKD and its stage. A comparative analysis was performed to compare the diagnosis results of the model with physicians.

Results

When diagnosing CKD or non‐CKD, the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of our model was 0.918 and that of the senior physician group was 0.869 (p < .05). For the diagnosis of CKD stage, the AUC of our model for CKD G1–G3 was 0.781, 0.880, and 0.905, respectively, while the AUC of the senior physician group for CKD G1–G3 was 0.506, 0.586, and 0.796, respectively; all differences were statistically significant (p < .05). The diagnostic efficiency of our model for CKD G4 and G5 reached the level of the senior physicians group. Specifically, the AUC of our model for CKD G4‐G5 was 0.867 and 0.931, respectively, while the AUC of the senior physician group for CKD G4‐G5 was 0.838 and 0.963, respectively (all p > .05).

Conclusions

Our deep learning radiomics model is more effective than senior physicians in the diagnosis of early CKD.

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ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 5 (HY5) and POPEYE (PYE) regulate intercellular iron transport in plants
Authors: Mankotia Samriti , Dubey Abhishek , Jakhar Pooja , Shikha Deep , Koolath Varsha , Kumar Ankit , Satbhai Santosh B.
Published: August 2024

Plants maintain iron (Fe) homeostasis under varying environmental conditions by balancing processes such as Fe uptake, transport and storage. In Arabidopsis, POPEYE (PYE), a basic helix‐loop‐helix transcription factor (TF), has been shown to play a crucial role in regulating this balance. In recent years, the mechanisms regulating Fe uptake have been well established but the upstream transcriptional regulators of Fe transport and storage are still poorly understood. In this study, we report that ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL5 (HY5), a basic leucine zipper (bZIP) TF which has recently been shown to play a crucial role in Fe homeostasis, interacts with PYE. Molecular, genetic and biochemical approaches revealed that PYE and HY5 have overlapping as well as some distinct roles in the regulation of Fe deficiency response. We found that HY5 and PYE both act as a repressor of Fe transport genes such as YSL3, FRD3, NPF5.9, YSL2, NAS4 and OPT3. HY5 was found to directly bind on the promoter of these genes and regulate intercellular Fe transport. Further analysis revealed that HY5 and PYE directly interact at the same region on PYE and NAS4 promoter. Overall, this study revealed that HY5 regulates Fe homeostasis by physically interacting with PYE as well as independently.
Emerging adult perceptions of costs and benefits of using information and communication technology in dating relationships
Authors: Munshi Ishita , Basting Evan J. , Dongarra Marissa , Harangozo Jessica , Goncy Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2024

Rapid technological advancements have revolutionized the dating experiences of emerging adults. This study explored perceptions of information and communication technology within emerging adult romantic relationships and examined what young adults perceived to be the costs and benefits of using technology to communicate in dating relationships. Emerging adults (N = 118) from diverse backgrounds completed a semi‐structured interview and thematic analysis was conducted on the interview responses. Several themes were identified that highlighted the positive influence of technology on relationship communication (e.g., greater efficiency), relationship development, and relationship maintenance. Despite several benefits, broad negative impacts of technology were also identified, including less privacy in relationships, and oversharing of relationship information online. The findings provide context for how technology has influenced relationship dynamics among emerging adults and can be useful to inform modern theories of romantic relationship development and relationship interventions.
Human‐initiated autocyclic delta failures
Authors: Gastineau Renaldo , Girardclos Stéphanie , Kremer Katrina , Anselmetti Flavio S.
Published: August 2024

River regulations have resulted in changes in the hydrology and particle budgets of fluvial systems. Since the 19th century, many rivers have been significantly modified to control flood hazards, to gain land from swamp areas for agricultural purposes, and to stabilize river‐levels and lake‐levels to facilitate navigation. These dramatic changes of the river courses have impacted the sediment budgets and grain‐size dissemination along them as well as the sediment distribution at the delta mouths in the downstream lakes, which could lead to slope instabilities. Deposits of such catastrophic lacustrine mass movements caused by delta collapses have been, for instance, observed in Lake Brienz (Switzerland), where relatively thick (0.5 to 1.3 m) and voluminous (>1 million m3) megaturbidites are stacked in the deep basin witnessing these processes. This study uses sediment cores and seismic data to reconstruct the megaturbidites' history in Lake Brienz. Data reveal that mass‐movement deposits, originating from the Aare Delta, one of the two main inflows, have mean ages of 1853, 1905, 1942 and 1996 ce and that they were unprecedented in, at least, half a millennium. The fact that the numbers of floods and earthquakes have not changed radically over this time period implies that human impact is the most likely explanation for these failure events. Therefore, the recurrent delta collapses are attributed to the focused sediment accumulation at the front of the channelized inflow in the proximal delta region, caused by the modification of the Aare River through its straightening and channelization during the late 19th century. These findings indicate that river regulation can affect delta sedimentation, leading to autocyclic delta collapses. Those collapses, in turn, can potentially generate tsunami waves, representing an additional natural hazard for shoreline communities.
Why Now? Thoughts on the Du Boisian Revolution
Authors: Meghji Ali , Burawoy Michael , Göçek Fatma Müge , Itzigsohn José , Morris Aldon
Published: August 2024

In this editorial collection, five sociologists share their opinions on why there has been a recent proliferation of scholarship on Du Bois, and summarize their own position in relation to this intellectual area. Ranging from reflections on how they “discovered” Du Bois's works, through to assessments of American sociology's reception of Du Bois's scholarship, the idea of this brief piece is to provide an insight into some of the potential driving forces behind the boom in Du Boisian scholarship.