bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the psychobiological demands of high-fidelity training in pre-hospital emergency medicine
Authors: Wetherell Mark A. , Williams Glenn , Doran Jeff
Published: October 2024

Background

Individuals who provide critical emergency care mount rapid psychobiological responses when faced with an incident. These responses are adaptive and ensure resources at time of demand; however, frequent activation with minimal opportunity for recovery can have negative consequences for health and wellbeing. Monitoring individuals in real emergency situations would provide an understanding of their stress responses during the provision of critical care; however, this presents logistical challenges. An alternative is to assess individuals during high-fidelity training scenarios. This is the first comprehensive assessment of psychobiological responding during continuous high-fidelity training in pre-hospital emergency medicine.

Methods

A sample of doctors and paramedics (N = 27) participated during 10 days of training and a weekend of no activities. Training involved the acquisition of human factors, non-technical and surgical skills, and their application in complex high-fidelity scenarios including road-traffic accidents, firearms incidents, and swift water rescue operations. On each day participants reported levels of state, cognitive, and somatic anxiety, and self-confidence following waking and before sleep, and their anticipated (at wake) and experienced (before sleep) demands of the day. Saliva samples were obtained each day for assessment of diurnal cortisol indices and the Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR). Garmin smartwatches were worn throughout for the collection of heart rate and HRV-derived stress.

Results

There were significant (p < 0.001) differences across days for state, cognitive, and somatic anxiety; self-confidence; anticipated and experienced demands; aggregated measures of heart rate and HRV-derived stress; levels of cortisol at waking (p = 0.002) and for the CAR (p < 0.001). Measures of psychobiological responding during training were distinct from the weekend and the highest levels of psychobiological responding occurred on days characterised by greater anticipated and experienced demands.

Discussion

This high-fidelity training is typical of the day-to-day requirements of emergency services and these observations are representative of functioning during real-life critical care emergencies. Increased responding during times of demand is adaptive; however, frequent and sustained responding increases allostatic load and is a contributor to burnout. As burnout is a significant concern in emergency medicine, this study identifies patterns of responding and recovery that may impact upon longer-term health and wellbeing.
Concussion Health Improvement Program (CHIP): study protocol for a randomized controlled optimization trial for youth with persistent post-concussive symptoms
Authors: McCarty Carolyn A. , Hennings Tayler , Zhou Chuan , Law Emily F. , Zatzick Douglas , Chrisman Sara P. D.
Published: October 2024

Background

Up to 1.9 million youth in the USA sustain a concussion each year, and up to 30% experience persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS) lasting 1 month or more. PPCS can substantially interfere with social, emotional, and academic functioning. Despite these concerns, few evidence-based treatments are available for youth with PPCS. We previously found effectiveness in treating youth with concussion using a collaborative care intervention that integrates mental health care into a medical model, with improvements in concussive symptoms and quality of life at 1 year. Using the multiphase optimization strategy (MOST) framework, we now aim to assess the contribution of each of the three components that were part of collaborative care: concussion-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (cf-CBT), parenting skills training (PST), and care management (CM).

Methods

The MOST factorial design examines all three intervention components with two levels of each (present or absent), resulting in 8 possible treatment combinations. We will recruit 368 youth with PPCS from 2 geographic locations (Seattle and Dallas), randomizing them to 1 of 8 treatment groups. Youth and/or parents will attend treatment sessions via video conferencing software over 3 months, and complete surveys regarding primary outcomes (concussive symptoms and health-related quality of life) and secondary outcomes (sleep, pain, mood, and parental distress) at 6 weeks and 3, 6, and 12 months. We will also assess potential mediators and moderators to allow for future tailoring and refinement.

Discussion

The overarching goal of this investigation is to determine which collaborative care components (delivered individually or in combination) are most effective in treating PPCS in concussion-exposed youth. The investigation will inform mental health screening, intervention, and referral procedures for youth and families following concussion. At the completion of this study, we will have an optimized and refined intervention for youth with PPCS ready for large-scale implementation and dissemination.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06036147. Registered on September 13, 2023.
Review of dengue vectors in Cambodia: distribution, bionomics, vector competence, control and insecticide resistance
Authors: Doeurk Bros , Marcombe Sébastien , Maquart Pierre-Olivier , Boyer Sébastien
Published: October 2024

Background

Dengue fever is one of the most prevalent mosquito-borne diseases in Cambodia. Until now, no specific vaccine nor antiviral treatment exists the virus causing Dengue fever. Consequently, its prevention relies only on vector control strategies. However, efficient vector control in turn relies on a good knowledge of the biology of the vector species. Therefore, this study aims to provide the first review of the distribution, ecology, meteorological impacts, trophic behavior, vector competence, vector control and insecticide resistance of dengue vector species in Cambodia.

Methods

A systematic search of the Google Scholar and PubMed databases was conducted for relevant published articles. Of the 610 published articles originally identified, 70 articles were ultimately selected for inclusion in this review. We also included new data from unpublished research conducted in Cambodia between 2017 and 2023 related to dengue vector bionomics.

Results

Eleven Aedes (Stegomyia) mosquito species have been recorded in Cambodia, including a new species described in 2024. Four species are associated with dengue virus transmission, among which Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus are the main vectors and Ae. malayensis and Ae. scutellaris are considered to be potential vectors. Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus are present in all provinces of Cambodia. Aedes albopictus shows a preference for forest, rural and suburban areas, while Ae. aegypti is mostly found in urban and suburban areas. The distribution of these two species is also influenced by meteorological factors, seasonality and the availability of breeding habitats and blood meals. Both species are predominant during the rainy season, and their respective density is impacted by precipitation and temperature. Aedes aegypti is characterized as anthropophilic, while Ae. albopictus exhibits zooanthropophilic behavior, and both species have been observed to be predominantly diurnal. In addition, they were found to be highly resistant to the insecticides used in Cambodia for their control, such as temephos for larvae and deltamethrin and permethrin for adult mosquitoes.

Conclusions

This review provides extensive and important knowledge on dengue vectors in Cambodia. This knowledge is derived not only from published research articles but also from many recent studies in Cambodia on the bionomics of dengue vector species. The review provides valuable information for use by public health authorities on dengue virus transmission and to develop better vector control strategies in the country.

Graphical Abstract
Is there enough evidence supporting the clinical adoption of clear cell likelihood score (ccLS)? An updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhong Jingyu , Hu Yangfan , Xing Yue , Liu Xianwei , Ge Xiang , Wang Yibin , Shi Yuping , Lu Junjie , Yang Jiarui , Song Yang , Lu Minda , Chu Jingshen , Zhang Huan , Ding Defang , Yao Weiwu
Published: October 2024

Objective

To review the evidence for clinical adoption of clear cell likelihood score (ccLS) for identifying clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) from small renal masses (SRMs).

Methods

We distinguished the literature on ccLS for identifying ccRCC via systematic search using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang Data until 31 March, 2024. The risk of bias and concern on application was assessed using the modified quality assessment of diagnostic accuracy studies (QUADAS-2) tool. The level of evidence supporting the clinical adoption of ccLS for identifying ccRCC was determined based on meta-analyses.

Results

Eight MRI studies and three CT studies were included. The risk of bias and application were mainly related to the index test and flow and timing, due to incomplete imaging protocol, unclear rating process, and inappropriate interval between imaging and surgery. The diagnostic odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) of MRI and CT ccLS were 14.69 (9.71–22.22; 6 studies, 1429 SRM, 869 ccRCC), and 5.64 (3.34–9.54; 3 studies, 296 SRM, 147 ccRCC), respectively, for identifying ccRCC from SRM. The evidence level for clinical adoption of MRI and CT ccLS were both rated as weak. MRI ccLS version 2.0 potentially has better diagnostic performance than version 1.0 (1 study, 700 SRM, 509 ccRCC). Both T2-weighted-imaging with or without fat suppression might be suitable for MRI ccLS version 2.0 (1 study, 111 SRM, 82 ccRCC).

Conclusion

ccLS shows promising diagnostic performance for identifying ccRCC from SRM, but the evidence for its adoption in clinical routine remains weak.

Critical relevance statement

Although clear cell likelihood score (ccLS) demonstrates promising performance for detecting clear cell renal cell carcinoma, additional evidence is crucial to support its routine use as a tool for both initial diagnosis and active surveillance of small renal masses.

Key Points

Clear cell likelihood score is designed for the evaluation of small renal masses.

Both CT and MRI clear cell likelihood scores are accurate and efficient.

More evidence is necessary for the clinical adoption of a clear cell likelihood score.

Graphical Abstract
Seasonal influence on miRNA expression dynamics of extracellular vesicles in equine follicular fluid
Authors: Feugang Jean M. , Gad Ahmed , Menjivar Nico G. , Ishak Ghassan M. , Gebremedhn Samuel , Gastal Melba O. , Dlamini Notsile H. , Prochazka Radek , Gastal Eduardo L. , Tesfaye Dawit
Published: October 2024

Background

Ovarian follicular fluid (FF) is a dynamic environment that changes with the seasons, affecting follicle development, ovulation, and oocyte quality. Cells in the follicles release tiny particles called extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing vital regulatory molecules, such as microRNAs (miRNAs). These miRNAs are pivotal in facilitating communication within the follicles through diverse signaling and information transfer forms. EV-coupled miRNA signaling is implicated to be associated with ovarian function, follicle and oocyte growth and response to various environmental insults. Herein, we investigated how seasonal variations directly influence the ovulatory and anovulatory states of ovarian follicles and how are they associated with follicular fluid EV-coupled miRNA dynamics in horses.

Results

Ultrasonographic monitoring and follicular fluid aspiration of preovulatory follicles in horses during the anovulatory (spring: non-breeding) and ovulatory (spring, summer, and fall: breeding) seasons and subsequent EV isolation and miRNA profiling identified significant variation in EV-miRNA cargo content. We identified 97 miRNAs with differential expression among the groups and specific clusters of miRNAs involved in the spring transition (miR-149, -200b, -206, -221, -328, and -615) and peak breeding period (including miR-143, -192, -451, -302b, -100, and let-7c). Bioinformatic analyses showed enrichments in various biological functions, e.g., transcription factor activity, transcription and transcription regulation, nucleic acid binding, sequence-specific DNA binding, p53 signaling, and post-translational modifications. Cluster analyses revealed distinct sets of significantly up- and down-regulated miRNAs associated with spring anovulatory (Cluster 1) and summer ovulation–the peak breeding season (Clusters 4 and 6).

Conclusions

The findings from the current study shed light on the dynamics of FF-EV-coupled miRNAs in relation to equine ovulatory and anovulatory seasons, and their roles in understanding the mechanisms involved in seasonal shifts and ovulation during the breeding season warrant further investigation.
Single-cell analysis reveals alternations between the aged and young mice prostates
Authors: Li Yang , Ding Yuhong , Hou Yaxin , Liu Lilong , Liu Zhenghao , Yao Zhipeng , Shi Pengjie , Li Jinxu , Chen Ke , Hu Junyi
Published: October 2024

Background

Aging of the male prostate is an inevitable process in which the prostate undergoes hyperplasia, and this growth may lead to compression of the urethra, resulting in voiding dysfunction and associated symptoms, and an increased risk of prostate cancer. Despite the significance of prostate aging, the molecular mechanisms involved are still not fully understood.

Methods

Prostate split by lobes from young (2 months) and aged (24 months) mice were collected for single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis. Tissues from both anterior prostate (AP) and ventral/dorsal/lateral prostate (VDLP) were included in the study. Data analysis included unsupervised clustering using the uniform manifold approximation and projection (UMAP) algorithm to identify distinct cell types based on marker gene expression. Differential gene expression analysis was performed to identify age-related changes in gene expression across different cell types. Functional enrichment analysis was conducted to elucidate biological pathways associated with differentially expressed genes. Additionally, cellular interactions and developmental trajectories were analyzed to characterize cellular dynamics during prostate aging.

Results

The single-cell transcriptome analysis of the mouse prostate during aging revealed heterogeneity across various cell types and their changes during the aging process. We found a significant increase in the proportion of mesenchymal and immune cells in aged mice. Our study unveiled alterations in genes and pathways associated with cellular senescence, oxidative stress, and regeneration in epithelial cells. Furthermore, we observed that basal cells may undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to become mesenchymal cells, particularly prominent in aged mice. Additionally, immune cells, notably macrophages and T cells, exhibited a heightened inflammatory response in aged mice.

Conclusion

In summary, our study provides a comparative analysis of the single-cell transcriptome of the aged and young mice prostates, elucidating cellular and molecular changes between the aged and young mice prostates.
Technology factors related to the differences in paper and online reading scores in PIRLS 2016
Authors: Mirazchiyski Plamen V. , Gershteyn Vadim
Published: October 2024

The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) was conducted in paper and online reading modes in 2016 using the same samples of students in a number of countries. Differences in reading literacy scores were found in several European countries. In some countries, the differences favored the electronic reading mode. Yet in others, the paper reading mode was favored. As the electronic reading mode differs substantially in the cognitive demands compared to the paper mode, it can be expected that the differences between the two modes are related to the variables related to technology: availability and access, general use, use for educational purposes in class or out-of-school, and self-efficacy with technology. This study investigates the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) factors related to the differences in paper and online reading in six European countries participating in both modes in PIRLS 2016. This study uses linear regression models as the application of multilevel modeling is not suitable because of the low between-school variances across countries. The results from this study show limited support for the relative effect that the student individual, school, and classroom ICT variables have on the differences between paper and electronic reading. Access to technology is related to mode differences only in Italy, and the use of computer devices in and out of school is related to the mode differences in Italy and Portugal. Student self-efficacy is related to the mode differences in Portugal and Slovenia. School resources show significant effects in Denmark (computers to students ratio) and Italy (instruction affected by digital resource shortages). None of the classroom variables showed any significant relationship in any of the countries. In addition, socio-economic status (which is proxied by the variable on home resources for learning) is a significant predictor in half of the countries. In addition to these findings, the general technological context within countries is discussed as part of an evaluation of the difference in reading in the two test delivery modes. The general uptake of technology in different social and economic aspects, as measured by the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), follows the differences between the two reading modes.
A multimodal characterization of cardiopulmonary resuscitation-associated lung edema
Authors: Magliocca Aurora , Zani Davide , De Zani Donatella , Castagna Valentina , Merigo Giulia , De Giorgio Daria , Fumagalli Francesca , Zambelli Vanessa , Boccardo Antonio , Pravettoni Davide , Bellani Giacomo , Richard Jean Christophe , Grasselli Giacomo , Rezoagli Emanuele , Ristagno Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

Background

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation-associated lung edema (CRALE) is a phenomenon that has been recently reported in both experimental and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients.

We aimed to explore the respiratory and cardiovascular pathophysiology of CRALE in an experimental model of cardiac arrest undergoing prolonged manual and mechanical chest compression (CC). Oxygen delivery achieved during mechanical or manual CC were also investigated as a secondary aim, to describe CRALE evolution under different hemodynamic supports generated during CPR.

Methods

Ventricular fibrillation (VF) was induced and left untreated for 5 min prior to begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), including CC, ventilation with oxygen, epinephrine administration and defibrillation. Continuous mechanical and manual CC was performed alternating one of the two strategies every 5 min for a total of 25 min. Unsynchronized mechanical ventilation was resumed simultaneously to CC. A lung computed tomography (CT) was performed at baseline and 1 h after return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) in surviving animals. Partitioned respiratory mechanics, gas exchange, hemodynamics, and oxygen delivery were evaluated during the experimental study at different timepoints. Lung histopathology was performed.

Results

After 25 min of CPR, a marked decrease of the respiratory system compliance with reduced oxygenation and CO2 elimination were observed in all animals. The worsening of the respiratory system compliance was driven by a significant decrease in lung compliance. The presence of CRALE was confirmed by an increased lung weight and a reduced lung aeration at the lung CT, together with a high lung wet-to-dry ratio and reduced airspace at histology. The average change in esophageal pressure during the 25-min CPR highly correlated with the severity of CRALE, i.e., lung weight increase.

Conclusions

In this porcine model of cardiac arrest followed by a 25-min interval of CPR with mechanical and manual CC, CRALE was consistently present and was characterized by lung inhomogeneity with alveolar tissue and hemorrhage replacing alveolar airspace. Despite mechanical CPR is associated with a more severe CRALE, the higher cardiac output generated by the mechanical compression ultimately accounted for a greater oxygen delivery. Whether specific ventilation strategies might prevent CRALE while preserving hemodynamics remains to be proved.
Forecasting migration movements using prediction markets
Authors: Morgenstern Sandra , Strijbis Oliver
Published: October 2024

Migration forecasts are crucial for proactive immigration and integration management. While the demand for accurate migration forecasts continues to grow, the current state of migration forecasting is still unsatisfactory, because they tend to lack precision. We introduce an alternative method to forecast migration movements: prediction markets. While prediction markets are mainly unknown in migration studies, they are established in the political economy of forecasting election outcomes. For its application to a complex phenomenon in a more constrained information environment such as migration movements, we argue that prediction markets allow to balance complementarities of current qualitative and quantitative approaches if they provide solutions to avoid thin trading and integrate expert knowledge into the market. We apply the prediction market to forecast immigration in four West European countries in 2020 and find encouraging results. We discuss the strengths and limitations of prediction markets to migration forecasting, including ethical considerations, and guide its future application.
Building a machine learning-assisted echocardiography prediction tool for children at risk for cancer therapy-related cardiomyopathy
Authors: Edwards Lindsay A. , Yang Christina , Sharma Surbhi , Chen Zih-Hua , Gorantla Lahari , Joshi Sanika A. , Longhi Nicolas J. , Worku Nahom , Yang Jamie S. , Martinez Di Pietro Brandy , Armenian Saro , Bhat Aarti , Border William , Buddhe Sujatha , Blythe Nancy , Stratton Kayla , Leger Kasey J. , Leisenring Wendy M. , Meacham Lillian R. , Nathan Paul C. , Narasimhan Shanti , Sachdeva Ritu , Sadak Karim , Chow Eric J. , Boyle Patrick M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite routine echocardiographic surveillance for childhood cancer survivors, the ability to predict cardiomyopathy risk in individual patients is limited. We explored the feasibility and optimal processes for machine learning-enhanced cardiomyopathy prediction in survivors using serial echocardiograms from five centers.

Methods

We designed a series of deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) for prediction of cardiomyopathy (shortening fraction ≤ 28% or ejection fraction ≤ 50% on two occasions) for at-risk survivors ≥ 1-year post initial cancer therapy. We built DCNNs with four subsets of echocardiographic data differing in timing relative to case (survivor who developed cardiomyopathy) index diagnosis and two input formats (montages) with differing image selections. We used holdout subsets in a 10-fold cross-validation framework and standard metrics to assess model performance (e.g., F1-score, area under the precision-recall curve [AUPRC]). Performance of the input formats was compared using a combined 5 × 2 cross-validation F-test.

Results

The dataset included 542 pairs of montages: 171 montage pairs from 45 cases at time of cardiomyopathy diagnosis or pre-diagnosis and 371 pairs from 70 at-risk survivors who didn’t develop cardiomyopathy during follow-up (non-case). The DCNN trained to distinguish between non-case and time of cardiomyopathy diagnosis or pre-diagnosis case montages achieved an AUROC of 0.89 ± 0.02, AUPRC 0.83 ± 0.03, and F1-score: 0.76 ± 0.04. When limited to smaller subsets of case data (e.g., ≥ 1 or 2 years pre-diagnosis), performance worsened. Model input format did not impact performance accuracy across models.

Conclusions

This methodology is a promising first step toward development of a DCNN capable of accurately differentiating pre-diagnosis versus non-case echocardiograms to predict survivors more likely to develop cardiomyopathy.

Graphical Abstract
Generalized transport costs in intermodal shipping: the context of the Northeast Passage
Authors: Kovalenko Alina , Mathisen Terje Andreas , Pruyn Jeroen
Published: October 2024

Intermodality is regarded as one way of achieving more sustainable transport solutions. To make intermodal transport the preferred solution among shippers, it must be attractive according to the concept of generalized transport costs. An extended model for generalized transport costs is developed which includes elements important for comparing maritime transport solutions in the Artic. This framework forms the basis for a principal discussion on the conditions that make one transport solution preferable to another within the context of maritime logistics. This model is then applied to the context of the Northeast Passage to discuss the necessary requirements for making an intermodal transport solution attractive relative to the current main route from Northeast Asia to Northwest Europe through the Suez Canal. Even though intermodality could be preferable in principle, current solutions cannot compete with either Arctic routes using unimodal solutions with high ice-class vessels or with the Suez route. Due to uncertainty and limited empirical evidence, a sensitivity analysis is conducted, focusing on the variables with the greatest impact on the result. Policymakers and stakeholders can consider the findings to improve transport competitiveness via the Northeast Passage.
Insecticide resistance status and mechanisms in Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus from different dengue endemic regions of Panama
Authors: Carrera Lorenzo Cáceres , Piedra Luis , Torres-Cosme Rolando , Castillo Anakena M. , Bruno Antonio , Ramírez José Luis , Martínez Dan , Rodríguez María Magdalena , Bisset Juan A.
Published: October 2024

Background

Dengue is a serious public health problem worldwide, including Panama. During the last years, the number of dengue cases has increased. This may be due to the presence of mosquito populations resistant to insecticides. The aim of this study was to characterize the resistance status, its enzymatic mechanisms and Kdr mutations in wild populations of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus.

Methods

Standard WHO bioassays were performed using insecticide-treated filter papers to determine resistance in populations Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus to pyrethroids insecticides, organophosphates, to the carbamate propoxur and to the organochlorine DDT. Biochemical assays were conducted to detect metabolic resistance mechanisms and real-time PCR was performed to determine the frequencies of the Kdr mutations Val1016IIe and F1534C.

Results

The strains Ae. aegypti El Coco showed confirmed resistance to deltamethrin (78.5% mortality) and lambda-cyhalothrin (81%), Aguadulce to deltamethrin (79.3%), David to deltamethrin (74.8%) and lambda-cyhalothrin (87.5%) and Puerto Armuelles to permethrin (83%). Aedes aegypti El Empalme showed confirmed resistance to pirimiphos-methyl (62.3% mortality), chlorpyrifos-methyl (55.5%) and propoxur (85.3%). All strains of Ae. albopictus showed possible resistance to PYs and five strains to DDT. Only Ae. albopictus Canto del Llano showed confirmed resistance to pirimiphos-methyl (70% mortality) and malathion (62%). Esterase activity was variable across sites with the most frequent expression of α-EST compared to β-EST in Ae. aegypti populations. In Ae. Albopictus, the expressed enzymes were β-EST and MFOs. Through ANOVA, significant differences were established in the levels of enzymatic activity of α- and β-EST, MFOs and GST, with p < 0.001 in the Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus. The Kdr Val1016IIe mutation was detected in Ae. aegypti Aguadulce, El Coco and David. The odds ratio for the Val1016Ile mutation ranged from 0.8 to 20.8 in resistant mosquitoes, indicating the association between pyrethroid phenotypic resistance and the kdr mutation.

Conclusion

The presence of a varied and generalized resistance, enzymatic mechanisms and the Val1016IIe mutation may be associated with the intensive use and possibly misuse of the different insecticides applied to control Aedes populations. These results highlight the need to develop a program for resistance management. Also, alternative approaches to mosquito control that do not involve insecticides should be explored.
Impact of gist intervention on automated system interpretability and user decision making
Authors: Gleaves Lydia P. , Broniatowski David A.
Published: October 2024

As they become more common, automated systems are also becoming increasingly opaque, challenging their users’ abilities to explain and interpret their outputs. In this study, we test the predictions of fuzzy-trace theory—a leading theory of how people interpret quantitative information—on user decision making after interacting with an online decision aid. We recruited a sample of 205 online crowdworkers and asked them to use a system that was designed to detect URLs that were part of coordinated misinformation campaigns. We examined how user endorsements of system interpretability covaried with performance on this coordinated misinformation detection task and found that subjects who endorsed system interpretability displayed enhanced discernment. This interpretability was, in turn, associated with both objective mathematical ability and mathematical self-confidence. Beyond these individual differences, we evaluated the impact of a theoretically motivated intervention that was designed to promote sensemaking of system output. Participants provided with a “gist” version of system output, expressing the bottom-line meaning of that output, were better able to identify URLs that might have been part of a coordinated misinformation campaign, compared to users given the same information presented as verbatim quantitative metrics. This work highlights the importance of enabling users to grasp the essential, gist meaning of the information they receive from automated systems, which benefits users regardless of individual differences.
Interpreting the shifts in forest structure, plant community composition, diversity, and functional identity by using remote sensing-derived wildfire severity
Authors: Trotta Giacomo , Cadez Luca , Boscutti Francesco , Vuerich Marco , Asquini Edoardo , Boscarol Giacomo , Cingano Paolo , Azzani Giacomo , Pischedda Sara , Tomao Antonio , Alberti Giorgio
Published: October 2024

Background

Wildfires are increasingly impacting ecosystems worldwide especially in temperate dry habitats, often interplaying with other global changes (e.g., alien plant invasions). Understanding the ecological consequences of wildfires is crucial for effective conservation and management strategies. The aim of this study was to investigate the impacts of wildfire severity on plant community (both the canopy trees and herbaceous layer) and alien plant invasion, combining field observations and remotely sensed data.

We conducted an observational study in the Karst forests (North-East Italy) 1 year after the large wildfire which affected the area in 2022. We assessed the impact through 35 field plots (200 m2 each) distributed among different fire severity (i.e., the loss of organic matter) classes assessed using the differenced normalized burn ratio (dNBR) calculated from satellite images. In each plot, tree species, diameter, vitality, resprouting capacity, and seedling density were measured. In addition, herb species richness (taxonomical diversity) was quantified, and plant cover was visually estimated. Functional diversity was also assessed considering six functional traits retrieved from databases.

Results

Some woody species (e.g., Quercus pubescens) showed a higher resistance to the fire (i.e., lower mortality rate), while others showed a higher resilience (i.e., recovery after fire through resprouting or seedlings, e.g., Cotinus coggygria). The transition to a shrub-dominated community (i.e., Cotinus coggygria) where fire severity was the highest underlines the dynamic nature of the post-fire succession. We detected a significant variation in the herbaceous plant community composition, diversity, and functional identity (i.e., community-weighted mean of trait) along the fire severity gradient. In particular, high-fire severity areas exhibited higher species richness compared to low-severity or unburned areas. Total alien plant cover increased with fire severity, while native cover remained constant. We also found shifts in species that enhance traits related to germination potential and growth strategy.

Conclusions

Our results highlight the vulnerability of the forest stands to an increase in wildfire severity, resulting in significant mortality and changes in tree community structure. This study contributes to the understanding of ecological processes after wildfires using a novel remote sensing approach in a temperate forest, emphasizing the need for conservation strategies aimed at mitigating high severity wildfires.
Prevalence of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Popit Sara , Serod Klara , Locatelli Igor , Stuhec Matej
Published: October 2024

Background

The estimates of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) prevalence across various studies are significantly variable, contributing to uncertainty in ADHD prevalence estimation. Previous systematic reviews and meta-analyses have attributed this variability primarily to the methodological characteristics of the studies, including the diagnostic criteria, source of information, and impairment requirement for the diagnosis.

Methods

Review identified studies reporting ADHD prevalence in representative samples of children and adults in Europe and worldwide. Studies that were conducted in the general population were included. We focused on studies that report ADHD prevalence based on clinical diagnosis (clinical diagnostic criteria based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and International Classification of Diseases criteria, other diagnostic tools, such as various scales or interviews based on clinical diagnostic criteria). PubMed/Medline was searched to identify relevant articles published until 2024/2/01. The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020200220) and followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines for systematic review and meta-analysis.

Results

In total, 117 studies were subjected to full evaluation. In the meta-analysis, 103 studies representing 159 independent datapoints were included. The overall prevalence of ADHD in register studies was 1.6%, 95% CI [0.9; 3.0], in survey studies 5.0%, 95% CI [2.9; 8.6], in one-stage clinical studies 4.2%, 95% CI [2.9; 6.0], and in two-stage clinical studies 4.8%, 95% CI [4.0; 5.8].

Conclusions

Exact comparisons among studies with different diagnostic criteria and types of sampling can impact prevalence estimates. When comparing data from methodologically different studies, these factors need to be considered.
Bias in Prediction Models to Identify Patients With Colorectal Cancer at High Risk for Readmission After Resection
Authors: Lucas Mary M. , Schootman Mario , Laryea Jonathan A. , Orcutt Sonia T. , Li Chenghui , Ying Jun , Rumpel Jennifer A. , Yang Christopher C.
Published: October 2024

PURPOSE

Machine learning (ML) algorithms are used for predictive modeling in medicine, but studies often do not evaluate or report on the potential biases of the models. Our purpose was to develop clinical prediction models for readmission after surgery in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and to examine their potential for racial bias.

METHODS

We used the 2012-2020 American College of Surgeons' National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Participant Use File and Targeted Colectomy File. Patients were categorized into four race groups—White, Black or African American, other, and unknown/not reported. Potential predictive features were identified from studies of risk factors of 30-day readmission in patients with CRC. We compared four ML-based methods—logistic regression, multilayer perceptron, random forest, and XGBoost (XGB). Model bias was assessed using false-negative rate (FNR) difference, false-positive rate (FPR) difference, and disparate impact (DI).

RESULTS

In all, 112,077 patients were included, 67.2% of whom were White, 9.2% Black, 5.6% other race, and 18% with race not recorded. There were significant differences in the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve, FPR, and FNR between race groups across all models. Notably, patients in the other race category had higher FNR compared with Black patients in all but the XGB model, while Black patients had higher FPR than White patients in some models. Patients in the other category consistently had the lowest FPR. Applying the 80% rule for DI, the models consistently met the threshold for unfairness for the other race category.

CONCLUSION

Predictive models for 30-day readmission after colorectal surgery may perform unequally for different race groups, potentially propagating to inequalities in delivery of care and patient outcomes if the predictions from these models are used to direct care.
Impaired 11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 2 Activity in Kidney Disease Disrupts 11-Oxygenated Androgen Biosynthesis
Authors: Tomkins Maria , McDonnell Tara , Cussen Leanne , Sagmeister Michael S , Oestlund Imken , Shaheen Fozia , Harper Lorraine , Hardy Rowan S , Taylor Angela E , Gilligan Lorna C , Arlt Wiebke , McIlroy Marie , de Freitas Declan , Conlon Peter , Magee Colm , Denton Mark , O’Seaghdha Conall , Snoep Jacky L , Storbeck Karl-Heinz , Sherlock Mark , O’Reilly Michael W
Published: October 2024

Context

11-Oxygenated androgens are a group of adrenal-derived steroids that require peripheral activation. In vitro data highlight a putative role for 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (HSD11B2) in 11-oxygenated androgen biosynthesis, converting 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione to 11-ketoandrostenedione (11KA4), the direct precursor of the potent androgen 11-ketotestosterone (11KT). As the kidney is the major site of HSD11B2 expression, we hypothesized that patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) would have reduced 11-oxygenated androgen biosynthesis due to impaired HSD11B2 activity.

Objective

To determine the role of HSD11B2 in 11-oxygenated androgen biosynthesis using a human CKD cohort alongside complementary cell culture and computational modeling approaches.

Methods

Cross-sectional observational study of patients with CKD (n = 85) and healthy controls (n = 46) measuring serum and urinary concentrations of glucocorticoids, and classic and 11-oxygenated androgens by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. A computational model of peripheral 11-oxygenated androgen biosynthesis was fitted to the serum data to calculate relative HSD11B2 expression levels for each participant.

Results

HSD11B2 activity declined with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), evidenced by higher cortisol/cortisone (E) ratios in patients with CKD than in controls (P < .0001). Serum concentrations of E, 11KA4, 11KT, and 11β-hydroxytestosterone were lower in patients with CKD than in controls (P < .0001 for each). A computational model based on enzyme kinetic parameters of HSD11B2, 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1, 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, and aldo-keto reductase 1C3 confirmed HSD11B2 as the key enzyme responsible for reduced 11-oxygenated androgen biosynthesis in CKD. Predicted HSD11B2 expression correlated with eGFR.

Conclusion

This is the first in vivo study to confirm a central role for renal HSD11B2 in 11-oxygenated androgen biosynthesis. Determining the clinical implications of this observation for patients with CKD requires further research.
Indie Porn
Authors: Stardust Zahra
Published: October 2024

In Indie Porn, Zahra Stardust examines the motivations and interventions of independent porn producers as they navigate criminal laws, risk-averse platforms, discriminatory algorithms, and rampant piracy. Herself a porn performer and participant, Stardust takes readers behind the scenes, offering intimate insights into this sociopolitical movement. She finds politicians who watch porn in parliament, protesters leading face-sitting demonstrations, sex workers making COVID-safe pornography, and artists reverse-engineering porn detection software. Against the backdrop of a global gig economy, Stardust documents the promises of indie porn to democratize content, revolutionize production, and redistribute wealth while outlining the fantasies of regulators, whose illusions of what porn is and does foreclose possibilities for transformation. Inevitably, as these paradigms collide, porn producers engage in creative tactics to hustle for survival and visibility, from ethical certification to law reform, sometimes reproducing hierarchies of stigma themselves. By highlighting how porn stigma is bound up with intersecting oppressions, Stardust identifies these junctions as coalitional opportunities for changing social relationships to sex, work, and capitalism.
A role for organ level dynamics in morphogenesis of the C. elegans hermaphrodite distal tip cell
Authors: Tolkin Theadora , Burnett Julia , Hubbard E. Jane Albert
Published: October 2024

The morphology of cells in vivo can arise from a variety of mechanisms. In the Caenorhabditis elegans hermaphrodite gonad, the distal tip cell (DTC) elaborates into a complex plexus over a relatively short developmental time period, but the mechanisms underlying this change in cell morphology are not well defined. We correlated the time of DTC elaboration with the L4-to-adult molt, but ruled out a relevant heterochronic pathway as a cue for DTC elaboration. Instead, we found that the timing of gonad elongation and aspects of underlying germline flux influence DTC elaboration. We propose a ‘hitch and tow’ aspect of organ-level dynamics that contributes to cellular morphogenesis, whereby germline flux drags the flexible DTC cell cortex away from its stationary cell body. More broadly, we speculate that this mechanism may contribute to cell shape changes in other contexts with implications for development and disease.
Advancing stem cell technologies for conservation of wildlife biodiversity
Authors: Hutchinson Ashlee M. , Appeltant Ruth , Burdon Tom , Bao Qiuye , Bargaje Rhishikesh , Bodnar Andrea , Chambers Stuart , Comizzoli Pierre , Cook Laura , Endo Yoshinori , Harman Bob , Hayashi Katsuhiko , Hildebrandt Thomas , Korody Marisa L. , Lakshmipathy Uma , Loring Jeanne F. , Munger Clara , Ng Alex H. M. , Novak Ben , Onuma Manabu , Ord Sara , Paris Monique , Pask Andrew J. , Pelegri Francisco , Pera Martin , Phelan Ryan , Rosental Benyamin , Ryder Oliver A. , Sukparangsi Woranop , Sullivan Gareth , Tay Nicole Liling , Traylor-Knowles Nikki , Walker Shawn , Weberling Antonia , Whitworth Deanne J. , Williams Suzannah A. , Wojtusik Jessye , Wu Jun , Ying Qi-Long , Zwaka Thomas P. , Kohler Timo N.
Published: October 2024

Wildlife biodiversity is essential for healthy, resilient and sustainable ecosystems. For biologists, this diversity also represents a treasure trove of genetic, molecular and developmental mechanisms that deepen our understanding of the origins and rules of life. However, the rapid decline in biodiversity reported recently foreshadows a potentially catastrophic collapse of many important ecosystems and the associated irreversible loss of many forms of life on our planet. Immediate action by conservationists of all stripes is required to avert this disaster. In this Spotlight, we draw together insights and proposals discussed at a recent workshop hosted by Revive & Restore, which gathered experts to discuss how stem cell technologies can support traditional conservation techniques and help protect animal biodiversity. We discuss reprogramming, in vitro gametogenesis, disease modelling and embryo modelling, and we highlight the prospects for leveraging stem cell technologies beyond mammalian species.
Developmental Patterns of Objectively Measured Motor Competence and Musculoskeletal Fitness among Finnish Adolescents
Authors: COSTIGAN SARAH , GRÅSTÉN ARTO , HUHTINIEMI MIKKO , KOLUNSARKA IIRIS , STODDEN DAVID , JAAKKOLA TIMO
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To examine how development of motor competence (locomotor, object control, stability) and development of musculoskeletal fitness (upper body and abdominal) are related during adolescence in a large sample of Finnish youth over 4 yr.

Methods

Study participants were students (n = 1147; 11.27 ± 0.33 yr at baseline) attending public schools in Finland. Data were collected yearly (2017–2021). Motor competence was assessed using the throwing–catching combination test, the 5-leaps test, and the side-to-side jumping test. Musculoskeletal fitness was assessed using the curl-up and the push-up tests. To answer the research question, a parallel latent growth curve model was implemented. Covariates were sex, body mass index, and peak height velocity.

Results

Improvements in all motor competencies were positively associated with improvements in push-ups. Subsequently, improvements in 5-leaps and side-to-side jumping test scores were related to improvements in curl-ups. Our covariate results indicate sex (male), healthy body mass index, and undergoing peak height velocity were associated with greater increases in motor competency and musculoskeletal fitness.

Conclusions

Given fitness has been shown to mediate the relationship between physical activity and motor competence, positive practices are needed to enhance adolescents’ experiences in physical activities and sports requiring adequate intensity to improve fitness and motor competence.
Τα μαγειρικά σκεύη της νεότερης νεολιθικής από τους οικισμούς της Σταυρούπολης και της Τούμπας Κρεμαστής Κοιλάδας
Authors: Λυμπεράκη Μαρία
Published: October 2024

Η παρούσα εργασία εστιάζει στη μελέτη των μαγειρικών σκευών από δύο νεολιθικούς οικισμούς της Βόρειας Ελλάδας, της Σταυρούπολης (κεντρική Μακεδονία) και της Τούμπας Κρεμαστής Κοιλάδας (δυτική Μακεδονία). Η κεραμική προέρχεται από ανασκαφικά σύνολα διαφορετικού χαρακτήρα που συνδέονται με διαφορετικά πλαίσια χρήσης. Στη Σταυρούπολη τα μαγειρικά σκεύη βρέθηκαν στους χώρους κατοίκησης. Στην Τούμπα Κρεμαστής Κοιλάδας, εκτός από τον χώρο κατοίκησης, η μελετημένη κεραμική προέρχεται και από τα όρια του οικισμού, από μία περιοχή που βρέθηκαν λάκκοι και τάφροι. Μαζί με την κεραμική, βρέθηκαν ευρήματα που συνδέονται με μια σειρά πρακτικών κοινωνικού, οικονομικού και ιδεολογικού χαρακτήρα. Η μελέτη μαγειρικών σκευών από τους χώρους κατοίκησης των οικισμών της Σταυρούπολης και της Τούμπας Κρεμαστής Κοιλάδας όπου πραγματοποιούνταν συνηθισμένες καθημερινές πρακτικές, αλλά και από την περιοχή εκτός των ορίων του οικισμού της Τούμπας Κρεμαστής Κοιλάδας όπου πραγματοποιούνταν διαφορετικές δραστηριότητες, είχε ως στόχο την αναζήτηση πληροφοριών για την παρασκευή και κατανάλωση φαγητού σε διαφορετικά πλαίσια και επακόλουθα για την κοινωνική ζωή των κατοίκων τους, καθώς και τις πιθανές διαφορές και ομοιότητες μεταξύ των δύο θέσεων.