bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear Mixed‐Effects Model of Z‐Endoxifen Concentrations in Tamoxifen‐Treated Patients from the CEPAM Cohort
Authors: Mc Laughlin Anna M. , Helland Thomas , Klima Fenja , Koolen Stijn L.W. , van Schaik Ron H.N. , Mathijssen Ron H.J. , Neven Patrick , Swen Jesse J. , Guchelaar Henk‐Jan , Dalenc Florence , White‐Koning Melanie , Michelet Robin , Mikus Gerd , Schroth Werner , Mürdter Thomas , Brauch Hiltrud , Schwab Matthias , Søiland Håvard , Mellgren Gunnar , Thomas Fabienne , Kloft Charlotte , Hertz Daniel L. ,   the CYP2D6 Endoxifen Percentage Activity Model (CEPAM) Consortium
Published: March 2024

Tamoxifen is widely used in patients with hormone receptor‐positive breast cancer. The polymorphic enzyme CYP2D6 is primarily responsible for metabolic activation of tamoxifen, resulting in substantial interindividual variability of plasma concentrations of its most important metabolite, Z‐endoxifen. The Z‐endoxifen concentration thresholds below which tamoxifen treatment is less efficacious have been proposed but not validated, and prospective trials of individualized tamoxifen treatment to achieve Z‐endoxifen concentration thresholds are considered infeasible. Therefore, we aim to validate the association between Z‐endoxifen concentration and tamoxifen treatment outcomes, and identify a Z‐endoxifen concentration threshold of tamoxifen efficacy, using pharmacometric modeling and simulation. As a first step, the CYP2D6 Endoxifen Percentage Activity Model (CEPAM) cohort was created by pooling data from 28 clinical studies (> 7,000 patients) with measured endoxifen plasma concentrations. After cleaning, data from 6,083 patients were used to develop a nonlinear mixed‐effect (NLME) model for tamoxifen and Z‐endoxifen pharmacokinetics that includes a conversion factor to allow inclusion of studies that measured total endoxifen but not Z‐endoxifen. The final parent‐metabolite NLME model confirmed the primary role of CYP2D6, and contributions from body weight, CYP2C9 phenotype, and co‐medication with CYP2D6 inhibitors, on Z‐endoxifen pharmacokinetics. Future work will use the model to simulate Z‐endoxifen concentrations in patients receiving single agent tamoxifen treatment within large prospective clinical trials with long‐term survival to identify the Z‐endoxifen concentration threshold below which tamoxifen is less efficacious. Identification of this concentration threshold would allow personalized tamoxifen treatment to improve outcomes in patients with hormone receptor‐positive breast cancer.
Technical adequacy of measuring teachers' knowledge of dyslexia
Authors: Reed Deborah K. , Zhang Huibin
Published: March 2024

Given the rapid growth in educational policies targeting educators' knowledge of dyslexia, this study explored the technical adequacy of a common instrument for measuring that knowledge. The responses of 1141 preservice teachers were scored in three ways: polytomously with the original 4‐point Likert scale, dichotomously as true‐false, and dichotomously as though the options were multiple choice. An exploratory factor analysis suggested at least one‐third of the items needed to be removed. Confirmatory factor analyses suggested a one‐factor model with polytomous scoring had the best fit to the data, but only six items loaded. All models demonstrated unacceptable internal consistency reliability (<0.70). Because no technically adequate version of the measure was identified, questions remain about basing policy on scores from these instruments. However, the findings indicated ways this type of measure might be improved.
Variation in stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope compositions along antlers of Qamanirjuaq caribou (Rangifer tarandus groenlandicus)
Authors: Brenning Matthew , Longstaffe Fred J. , Fraser Danielle
Published: March 2024

Annual antler growth begins in the spring and is completed by late summer for male caribou (Rangifer tarandus groenlandicus) from the Qamanirjuaq herd (Nunavut, Canada), aligned with both the spring migration and a seasonal dietary shift. Antlers may provide a non‐lethal means of studying short‐ and long‐term changes in caribou ecology through incorporated isotopes of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N). We sampled the antlers of 12 male caribou from the Qamanirjuaq herd culled in September 1967. We predicted that serial sampling of antlers would reflect the known seasonal dietary change from lichen to grass‐like and shrub diet based on rumen contents from individuals culled during the same period. The δ13C and δ15N were analyzed in food sources and every 3 cm along each antler's length. The carbon isotope compositions of collagen (δ13Ccol) varied by ~0.5‰ among individuals and within antlers, while the carbon isotope compositions of antler bioapatite (δ13CCO3) increased by 1–1.5‰ from pedicle to tip. Values of δ15Ncol increased within antlers by 1–3‰ from pedicle to tip and varied by 3‰ among the individuals sampled. Antler collagen was lower in δ15Ncol by ~1‰ relative to bone collagen. Bayesian mixing models were conducted to test for changes in dietary proportions from antler isotope compositions. Mixing models did not indicate significant dietary shifts for any individual during antler formation, showing consistently mixed diets of fungi, horsetail, lichen, and woody plants. Increases in δ15Ncol in antler tissue could, therefore, correspond to subtle seasonal dietary changes and/or the physiological stress of antler tissue development.
Analysing biological colour patterns from digital images: An introduction to the current toolbox
Authors: Hemingson Christopher R. , Cowman Peter F. , Bellwood David R.
Published: March 2024

Understanding the numerous roles that colouration serves in the natural world has remained a central focus in many evolutionary and ecological studies. However, to accurately characterise and then compare colours or patterns among individuals or species has been historically challenging. In recent years, there have been a myriad of new resources developed that allow researchers to characterise biological colours and patterns, specifically from digital imagery. However, each resource has its own strengths and weaknesses, answers a specific question and requires a detailed understanding of how it functions to be used properly. These nuances can make navigating this emerging field rather difficult. Herein, we evaluate several new techniques for analysing biological colouration, with a specific focus on digital images. First, we introduce fundamental background knowledge about light and perception to be considered when designing and implementing a study of colouration. We then show how numerous modifications can be made to images to ensure consistent formatting prior to analysis. After, we describe many of the new image analysis approaches and their respective functions, highlighting the type of research questions that they can address. We demonstrate how these various techniques can be brought together to examine novel research questions and test specific hypotheses. Finally, we outline potential future directions in colour pattern studies. Our goal is to provide a starting point and pathway for researchers wanting to study biological colour patterns from digital imagery.
The future of endemic and threatened birds of the Amazon in the face of global climate change
Authors: de Moraes Kauê Felippe , Lima Marcela Guimarães Moreira , Gonçalves Gabriela Silva Ribeiro , Cerqueira Pablo Vieira , Santos Marcos Pérsio Dantas
Published: March 2024

The anthropogenic impacts on the environment, including deforestation and the escalating emissions of greenhouse gases, have significantly contributed to global climate change that can lead to alterations in ecosystems. In this context, protected areas (PAs) are pillars for biodiversity conservation by being able, for example, to maintain the viability of populations of endangered species. On the other hand, the species range shifts do not follow the limits of PAs, jeopardizing the conservation of these species. Furthermore, the effectiveness of PAs is consistently undermined by impacts stemming from land use, hunting activities, and illegal exploitation, both within the designated areas and in their adjacent zones. The objectives of this study are to quantify the impacts of climate change on the distribution of threatened and endemic birds of the Amazon biome, evaluate the effectiveness of PAs in protecting the richness of threatened birds, and analyze the representativeness of species within PAs. We found with our results that climate suitability loss is above 80 for 65% of taxa in the optimistic scenario and above 93% in the pessimistic scenario. The results show that PAs are not effective in protecting the richness of Amazonian birds, just as they are ineffective in protecting most of the taxa studied when analyzed individually Although some taxa are presented as “Protected,” in future scenarios these taxa may suffer major shrinkages in their distributions and consequently present population unviability. The loss of climatically suitable areas and the effectiveness of PAs can directly influence the loss of ecosystem services, fundamental to maintaining the balance of biodiversity. Therefore, our study paves the way for conservation actions aimed at these taxa so that they can mitigate current and future extinctions due to climate change.
Current and past climate co‐shape community‐level plant species richness in the Western Siberian Arctic
Authors: Zemlianskii Vitalii , Brun Philipp , Zimmermann Niklaus E. , Ermokhina Ksenia , Khitun Olga , Koroleva Natalia , Schaepman‐Strub Gabriela
Published: March 2024

The Arctic ecosystems and their species are exposed to amplified climate warming and, in some regions, to rapidly developing economic activities. This study assesses, models, and maps the geographic patterns of community‐level plant species richness in the Western Siberian Arctic and estimates the relative impact of environmental and anthropogenic factors driving these patterns. With our study, we aim at contributing toward conservation efforts for Arctic plant diversity in the Western Siberian Arctic. We investigated the relative importance of environmental and anthropogenic predictors of community‐level plant species richness in the Western Siberian Arctic using macroecological models trained with an extensive geobotanical dataset. We included vascular plants, mosses and lichens in our analysis, as non‐vascular plants substantially contribute to species richness and ecosystem functions in the Arctic. We found that the mean community‐level plant species richness in this vast Arctic region does not decrease with increasing latitude. Instead, we identified an increase in species richness from South‐West to North‐East, which can be well explained by environmental factors. We found that paleoclimatic factors exhibit higher explained deviance compared to contemporary climate predictors, potentially indicating a lasting impact of ancient climate on tundra plant species richness. We also show that the existing protected areas cover only a small fraction of the regions with highest species richness. Our results reveal complex spatial patterns of community‐level species richness in the Western Siberian Arctic. We show that climatic factors such as temperature (including paleotemperature) and precipitation are the main drivers of plant species richness in this area, and the role of relief is clearly secondary. We suggest that while community‐level plant species richness is mostly driven by environmental factors, an improved spatial sampling will be needed to robustly and more precisely assess the impact of human activities on community‐level species richness patterns. Our approach and results can be used to design conservation strategies and to investigate drivers of plant species richness in other arctic regions.
White‐tailed deer detection rates increase when coyotes are present
Authors: Clipp Hannah L. , Pesi Sarah M. , Miller Madison L. , Gigliotti Laura C. , Skelly Brett P. , Rota Christopher T.
Published: March 2024

Predator species can indirectly affect prey species through the cost of anti‐predator behavior responses, which may involve shifts in occupancy, space use, or movement. Quantifying the various strategies implemented by prey species to avoid adverse interactions with predators can lead to a better understanding of potential population‐level repercussions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine predator–prey interactions by quantifying the effect of predator species presence on detection rates of prey species, using coyotes (Canis latrans) and white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in Central Appalachian forests of the eastern United States as a model predator–prey system. To test two competing hypotheses related to interspecific interactions, we modeled species detections from 319 camera traps with a two‐species occupancy model that incorporated a continuous‐time detection process. We found that white‐tailed deer occupancy was independent of coyote occupancy, but white‐tailed deer were more frequently detectable and had greater detection intensity at sites where coyotes were present, regardless of vegetation‐related covariates. In addition, white‐tailed deer detection rates at sites with coyotes were highest when presumed forage availability was relatively low. These findings suggest that white‐tailed deer may be exhibiting an active avoidance behavioral response to predators by increasing movement rates when coyotes are present in an area, perhaps due to reactive evasive maneuvers and/or proactive attempts to reduce adverse encounters with them. Concurrently, coyotes could be occupying sites with higher white‐tailed deer densities. Because white‐tailed deer did not exhibit significant shifts in daily activity patterns based on coyote occupancy, we further suggest that white‐tailed deer in our study system generally do not use temporal partitioning as their primary strategy for avoiding encounters with coyotes. Overall, our study implements a recently developed analytical approach for modeling multi‐species occupancy from camera traps and provides novel ecological insight into the complex relationships between predator and prey species.
Floral resource partitioning of coexisting bumble bees: Distinguishing species‐, colony‐, and individual‐level effects
Authors: Ye Zhong‐Ming , He Yong‐Deng , Bergamo Pedro J. , Orr Michael C. , Huang Wen , Jin Xiao‐Fang , Lun Han‐Ning , Wang Qing‐Feng , Yang Chun‐Feng
Published: March 2024

Resource partitioning is considered a key factor in alleviating competitive interactions, enabling coexistence among consumer species. However, most studies have focused on resource partitioning between species, ignoring the potentially critical role of intraspecific variation in resource use. We investigated floral resource partitioning across species, colonies, and individuals in a species‐rich bumblebee community in the diversification center of bumblebees. We used a total of 10,598 bumblebees belonging to 13 species across 5 years in the Hengduan Mountains of southwest China. First, we evaluated the influence of a comprehensive set of floral traits, including both those related to attractiveness (flower color and shape) and rewards (pollen, sugar ratio, nectar volume, sugar concentration, and amino acid content) on resource partitioning at the species level in bumblebee–plant networks. Then, we explored intraspecific resource partitioning on the colony and individual levels. Our results suggest that bumblebee species differ substantially in their use of the available floral resources, and that this mainly depends on flower attractiveness (floral color and shape). Interestingly, we also detected floral resource partitioning at the colony level within all commonest bumblebee species evaluated. In general, floral resource partitioning between bumblebee individuals decreased with species‐ and individual‐level variation in body size (intertegular span). These results suggest that bumblebee species may coexist via the flexibility in their preferences for specific floral traits, which filters up to support the co‐occurrence of high numbers of species and individuals in this global hotspot of species richness.
Impact of a 16‐week strength training program on physical performance, body composition and cardiac remodeling in previously untrained women and men
Authors: Grandperrin Antoine , Ollive Pierre , Kretel Yanis , Maufrais Claire , Nottin Stéphane
Published: March 2024

Even if more and more women are involved in strength‐training (ST) programs in fitness centers, studies on strength gain, body composition, and cardiac remodeling were mainly conducted in men and whether they are similar in women remains to be explored. In this context, the aim of our study was to assess the effect of a supervised ST program on strength gains, body composition, and cardiac remodeling in previously untrained women and men. 17 healthy and previously untrained young women and 17 young men participated in a supervised 16‐week ST program built according to the recommendation of the American College of Sports Medicine in terms of intensity, and strictly using similar volume and intensity in both groups. Strength performance, body composition, and cardiac remodeling were evaluated every 4 weeks. Cardiac adaptations were assessed using resting echocardiography, including regional 2D‐Strain analysis of the left atrium and ventricle (LA and LV, respectively). Despite lower values at baseline, women exhibited similar or even higher strength gains compared to men. ST induced a decrease of body and abdominal fat mass and an increase of lean body mass in both groups. Similar cardiac remodeling was observed in women, and women, including an early and progressive LV and LA enlargement throughout the ST program, without any alteration of LV diastolic and systolic functions. These findings underlie that ST programs are highly suitable for women to enhance their strength performance and their cardiovascular health.
The effects of custom‐made mouthguard design on physiological parameters and players' perception in rugby union
Authors: Karaganeva Raya , Tomlinson David J. , Pinner Susan , Taylor Rebecca L. , Burden Adrian , Winwood Keith
Published: March 2024

Some sports participants are often reluctant to wear a mouthguard due to issues with comfort, breathing and communication. However, there is limited evidence that investigates the use of custom‐made mouthguards and variations in design as key factors to minimise these issues. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the effect of custom‐made mouthguard design on cardiopulmonary function, exercise performance and perception of comfort in rugby union players. Fourteen rugby players (aged 20.2 ± 1.19 years) were recruited to undertake a rugby‐specific exercise protocol on a treadmill over four conditions (no mouthguard and three custom‐made mouthguard designs). Cardiopulmonary responses were assessed using breath‐by‐breath analysis, in conjunction with blood lactate (BLa) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). Maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) was assessed before and after the study to identify any changes in players' level of performance. Participants scored each mouthguard in relation to preference, comfort, breathing, protection and retention. There were no differences in oxygen uptake (p = 0.785,  = 0.021), ventilation (p = 0.952,  = 0.007), respiratory exchange ratio (p = 0.564,  = 0.039) and heart rate (p = 0.830,  = 0.017), whilst participants performed with the selected custom‐made mouthguards. However, RPE was higher without a mouthguard than whilst using two of the mouthguards during the first 3 min of exercise, in combination with higher BLa accumulation (p ≤ 0.05). Although there was no statistical difference between mouthguard designs in the ratings around comfort, there was a preference towards mouthguards with reduced palatal coverage. Individual preference in design may improve compliance of wearing a mouthguard without affecting physiological parameters.
Online longitudinal monitoring of brain health in former contact sport athletes: A study of acceptability and ethicality
Authors: Boucher Ellen Frances , Grey Michael J. , Hornberger Michael , Hanson Sarah
Published: March 2024

Retrospective studies reveal that retired professional football players are at an increased risk of dementia. Prospective, longitudinal evidence in athletes diverse in sex, playing level, age and sport are now needed to understand the link between contact sport and dementia. The SCORES (Screening Cognitive Outcomes after Repetitive head impact Exposure in Sport) project investigates brain health online of former contact and non‐contact sport athletes as they age. Longitudinal study success is dependent on recruitment and retention. Both are influenced by perceived acceptability of participation. The SCORES project also offers regular feedback on assessment performance to participants, which raises ethical challenges. This study was designed to explore acceptability of the SCORES project to improve recruitment, retention and ensure ethicality amongst participants. Eight participants were purposively sampled and interviewed based on Sekhon's theoretical framework for assessing acceptability. Responses were analysed deductively against this framework. Main findings were that promoting altruistic and personal benefits of participation could aid recruitment. Conversely, computer literacy and the possibility of discovering a decline in their brain health was a potential barrier. Participants identified clarity of instructions, regular non‐intrusive researcher contact, low assessment burden, emphasis on participation as voluntary and the promotion of a community as avenues towards improving retention. They identified assessment frustration and challenging assessments as possible reasons for attrition. Participants viewed feedback as both necessary and important and made suggestions for ensuring ethicality. Findings from this study demonstrate how longitudinal online studies of athletes can be improved to aid recruitment, retention and ethicality.
Quantifying coordinative patterns in steady‐state running: The impact of footwear and foot strike on joint coupling variability
Authors: Garofolini Alessandro , Mickle Karen J. , McLaughlin Patrick , Taylor Simon
Published: March 2024

In this study, we aimed to compare and contrast the intralimb coordinative patterns of habitual forefoot strikers (FFS) and rearfoot strikers (RFS) during steady‐state running across three different shoe types: minimalist, neutral and cushioned shoes. To describe these coordinative patterns, we implemented the concept of the ‘preferred movement path’ which represents the movement path that runners naturally select in response to their physical capacity and external environment. We quantified cycle‐to‐cycle consistency (ACC) and within‐trial variance in coordination patterns (SoV) using joint angle data from the ankle and knee for ankle‐knee coupling and from the knee and hip for knee‐hip coupling. Additionally, we calculated the measure of shape difference in joint coupling as the sum of squared distances (SSD) between/within conditions and groups. The percentage of runners who displayed shape differences below certain SSD thresholds was also evaluated. Our findings revealed no significant group or shoe type effect on any of the variability measures (ACC: p = 0.460 for ankle‐knee and p = 0.832 for knee‐hip; SoV: p = 0.345 for ankle‐knee and p = 0.755 for knee‐hip). However, there was a significant (p < 0.001) shape difference observed between the most extreme shoe conditions. Despite this, when runners switched shoes, 70%–90% of them maintained their original coordinative pattern across both joint couplings, indicating a strong adherence to their preferred movement path. This suggests that while shoe type can influence the shape of the coordinative pattern, the inherent movement tendencies of the runners remain largely consistent.
Leukocytes and lactate responses to cycling and running at the same target heart rate
Authors: Kodesh Einat , Law Pearl , Haddad Fadia , Stehli Annamarie , Falk Bareket , Radom‐Aizik Shlomit
Published: March 2024

Heart Rate (HR) is widely used for erobic exercise intensity prescriptions and/or studies of exercise training. It is often assumed that exercising at a given HR results in similar physiological response, regardless of exercise modality. This study aimed to gauge cellular immune mobilization to submaximal exercise at a given target HR on a cycle ergometer (CE) and treadmill (TM). Thirteen healthy male adults (23.2 ± 3.5 y.o) completed 4 laboratory visits. Participants performed two graded exercise tests to exhaustion on CE and TM and two 30‐min constant exercise challenges at 70% HR reserve on CE or TM in random order. Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) was recorded every 5 min, and blood was drawn before and after exercise to measure leukocytes subpopulation levels, lactate, and IL‐6. HR was successfully “clamped” during the exercise in CE and TM (CE 156.7 ± 1.1; TM 159.3 ± 1.6 bpm). Cycling was perceived as more strenuous than running and was accompanied by a greater increase in lactate post‐exercise (p < 0.0001; 6.2 ± 0.3 vs. 2.9 ± 0.3 mmol/L). IL‐6 and leukocytes subpopulations were significantly elevated post‐exercise (p < 0.003) with no difference between exercise modalities (monocytes; CE 57.6% TM 61.2%, granulocytes; CE 41.37%, TM 50.1%, lymphocytes; CE 91.03%, TM 78.8%). The findings revealed that HR is not sufficient in and of itself to fully assess the metabolic stress associated with a given exercise modality. However, despite different metabolic and subjective stress, the IL‐6 and leukocyte counts relative changes were similar in the two modalities.
Solid‐contact ion‐selective sensor for the direct determination of procyclidine HCl and application of in‐line dissolution profiling of its tablets
Authors: Gaber Radwa Ahmed , Hassan Nagiba Y. , Ramadan Nesrin K. , Ragab Mona T.
Published: March 2024

The ability to obtain accurate analytical results without sample pre‐treatment or derivatization is a key element for an eco‐friendly method of analysis. In this work, green electro analytical method was developed and evaluated for the selective determination of the anti‐cholinergic drug Procyclidine Hydrochloride in both pure and dosage forms as well as in dissolution medium without sample pre‐treatment. Firstly, screening of four ionophore‐doped polyvinyl chloride‐based membranes were conducted to detect the one with highest affinity towards the studied drug. Accordingly, calix[4]arene‐doped membrane exhibited the optimum results. Then optimization was carried out by designing screen‐printed and glassy carbon solid‐contact ion‐selective electrodes with multiwall carbon nanotube and graphene nanocomposite as ion to electron transducers. The fabricated screen‐printed sensor with graphene nanocomposite was characterized according to IUPAC recommendations. It acquired the fastest and most stable response, along with thermal stability up to 30 °C. It also displayed a slope of 43.9±0.2 mV/decade in a pH range of 2–5. The proposed sensor successfully obtained a linear range of 1×10−5–1×10−2 M and the theoretical limit of detection was 6.3×10−6 M. Finally, it was used in applications such as in‐line dissolution monitoring and quantification of procyclidine in its dosage form without prior sample pre‐treatment or derivatization steps. Furthermore, the graphene nanocomposite transducer has been imaged by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).
The impact of air pollution on crude oil futures market
Authors: Yao Ting , Zhang Yue‐Jun
Published: March 2024

This study investigates whether and how air pollution can affect the crude oil futures market. The results indicate that, although air pollution does not significantly affect oil returns, it does have a significant negative impact on volatility and liquidity in the crude oil futures market in the presence of pit trading. Furthermore, air pollution near the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) negatively affects both volatility and liquidity, whereas the effect magnitude diminishes as the distance from the NYMEX increases. In general, this study reveals that air pollution affects investors in the crude oil futures market directly through its physical or cognitive impact.
Early ambulation after fibular free flap surgery is associated with reduced length of stay, increased mobility independence, and discharge to home
Authors: McCrary Hilary C. , Dunklebarger Mitchell F. , Fechter Brett J. , Drejet Sarah M. , Monroe Marcus M. , Buchmann Luke O. , Hunt Jason P. , Cannon Richard B.
Published: March 2024

Background

Fibula free flaps (FFF) are one of the most common bony flaps utilized. This paper describes a quality improvement project aimed at increasing early ambulation.

Methods

A review of FFF patients at an academic hospital was completed (2014–2023). In 2018, an institutional change to encourage early ambulation without placement of a boot was made. Changes in hospital disposition and physical therapy outcomes were evaluated.

Results

A total of 168 patients underwent FFF reconstruction. There was a statistically significant lower length of stay in Group 2 (early ambulation, no boot) (8.1 vs. 9.4; p = 0.04). A higher rate of discharge to a skilled nursing facility was noted in Group 1 (delayed ambulation with boot) (21.3% vs. 11.9%; p = 0.009). A higher proportion of patients in Group 2 demonstrated independence during bed mobility, transfers, and gait (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Early ambulation without boot placement after FFF is associated with decreased length of hospital stay, improved disposition to home and physical therapy outcomes.
Variation in canopy conductance of Cunninghamia lanceolata forest and its response to environmental factors after an extreme rainfall event
Authors: Xing Wanqiu , Cheng You , Yang Lilin , Wang Weiguang
Published: March 2024

Canopy conductance (gc) is a crucial parameter in simulating evapotranspiration and modulating water exchange, but its variation mechanism has regional uncertainties and complex environmental co‐controls. In addition, the effect of extreme rainfall on gc cannot be ignored under the changing climate. Here, we investigated the variation and environmental controls on gc and the effect of extreme rainfall events in a Cunninghamia lanceolata forest across the subtropical area of Southern China. In July 2020, an extreme rainstorm hit the source area of the Xin'an River, with the cumulative rainfall on July 7 and 8 reaching 216.6 mm. The thermal diffusion probe method was used to measure the density of sap flow, and the environmental factors such as air temperature (Ta), net solar radiation (Rn) and soil water content (SWC) were monitored during the growing seasons of 2020 and 2021. Ultimately, gc obtained by the Penman‐Monteith equation was adopted since the result from the Köstner equation was overestimated. gc showed a unimodal curve on the diurnal scale, and this characteristic was more obvious after the extreme rainfall. Daily gc appeared a fluctuating pattern with a maximum in summer. gc was simultaneously affected by Ta, Rn, water vapour pressure difference (VPD), SWC, among which Ta was the most significant driving factor at both the diurnal and daily timescales. The regulation of Ta, VPD and SWC on gc had obvious thresholds, and the most definite response mode was VPD (2020: 1.25 kPa; 2021: 0.95 kPa). SWC and Ta were the dominant factors after the rainfall period, and the promotion effect of VPD on post‐rainy days turned to inhibition effect on typical sunny days. These findings will further reveal the water exchange mechanism between atmosphere and vegetation and impacts of environmental factors in subtropical coniferous forests, especially after the extreme rainfall events.
Effect of salt types on salt precipitation and water transport in saline sandy soil
Authors: Wang Hongchao , Li Xinhu , Guo Min , Li Jialin
Published: March 2024

Salt precipitation on the surface of porous media significantly affects water transport processes. Most studies on salt precipitation mainly focused on single salts, but in nature, salt precipitation usually occurs as mixtures. Consequently, information on the crystallization of salt mixtures and its effect on water transport remains scarce. This study investigated the precipitation of mixtures (the mass ratios of NaCl:Na2SO4 were 3:7, 5:5, and 7:3, respectively) of NaCl (typical efflorescence) and Na2SO4 (typical subflorescence) in the initially saturated sandy soil columns and its effect on evaporation and compared it with the cases of the two salts individually. The results showed that salt mixtures exhibited a mixed pattern of crystals including both efflorescence and subflorescence, and the efflorescence showed granular aggregation, unlike the mono‐salts. The crystallization coverage of the salt mixtures was smaller than that of NaCl mono‐salt; high (7:3) and low (5:5 and 3:7) proportions of NaCl led to larger and smaller crystallization coverage than that of Na2SO4 mono‐salt, respectively. While the salt mixtures had less crystallization coverage than the mono‐salts, they showed lower evaporation because the salt mixtures formed a denser crystallization structure of efflorescence‐subflorescence‐soil layer, this crystallization structure exhibited greater inhibition of water vapour diffusion, thus reducing evaporation. In addition, the crystallization of the salt mixtures with higher NaCl proportion afforded greater resistance of evaporation. The mixed crystallization pattern formed by the salt mixtures significantly enhances the crystallization resistance to evaporation.
Reviewing metal fluorides as the cathode materials for high performance Li batteries
Authors: Liu Ao , Yuan Huadong , Wang Yao , Liu Yujing , Luo Jianmin , Nai Jianwei , Tao Xinyong
Published: March 2024

Exploring high‐energy density rechargeable lithium (Li) batteries is urgently needed to meet the demand of the large‐scale electric vehicle market. Conversion‐type metal fluorides (MFx) have been considered as desirable cathode materials for next‐generation rechargeable batteries because of their high operational voltages, environmental non‐toxicity, low cost, and high thermal stability. In this review, we present the most promising and feasible MFx applied in rechargeable Li batteries in terms of capacity, discharge potential, volume change, fabricated methods, crystal structure, and cost/abundance. The electrochemical performance is briefly illustrated, and the recent advances in mechanisms focused on MFx cathodes upon cyclic processes are noted and discussed in detail. Finally, prospects for the current challenges and possible research directions, with the aim to provide some inspiration for the development of MFx‐based cathodes are presented.
Adenomyosis among patients undergoing postpartum hysterectomy for uncontrollable uterine bleeding: A multicenter, observational, retrospective, cohort study on histologically‐based prevalence and clinical characteristics
Authors: Giorgi Matteo , Raimondo Diego , Pacifici Martina , Bartiromo Ludovica , Candiani Massimo , Fedele Francesco , Pizzo Alessandra , Valensise Herbert , Seracchioli Renato , Raffone Antonio , Martire Francesco Giuseppe , Centini Gabriele , Zupi Errico , Lazzeri Lucia
Published: March 2024

Objective

To assess the prevalence of adenomyosis at pathologic examination, and its association with obstetric complications, peripartum maternal clinical characteristics and neonatal birth weight in patients undergoing postpartum hysterectomy due to postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).

Methods

A multicenter, observational, retrospective, cohort study was carried out including all women who underwent postpartum hysterectomy due to PPH at gestational week 23+0 or later, between January 2010 and May 2023. Patients were categorized into two groups based on the presence of adenomyosis at pathologic examination, and were compared for obstetric complications, peripartum maternal clinical characteristics, and neonatal birth weight.

Results

The histologically‐based prevalence of adenomyosis in patients undergoing postpartum hysterectomy due to PPH was 39.4%. Adenomyosis was associated with a longer hospitalization time (regression coefficient: 4.43 days, 95% CI: 0.34–8.52, P = 0.034) and a higher risk of hypertensive disorders (OR: 5.82, 95% CI: 1.38–24.46, P = 0.016), threatened preterm labor (OR: 3.34, 95% CI: 1.08–10.31, P = 0.036), urgent/emergency C‐section (OR: 24.15, 95% CI: 2.60–223.96, P = 0.005), postpartum maternal complications (OR: 4.96, 95% CI: 1.48–16.67, P = 0.012), maternal intensive care unit admission (OR: 3.56, 95% CI: 1.05–12.05, P = 0.041), and low birth weight neonates (OR: 3.8, 95% CI: 1.32–11.02, P = 0.013).

Conclusion

In patients undergoing postpartum hysterectomy due to PPH, adenomyosis is a highly prevalent condition among, and is associated with adverse obstetric, maternal, and neonatal outcomes.
Efficacy, Safety, and Population Pharmacokinetics of Eltrombopag in Children with Different Severities of Aplastic Anemia
Authors: Zhang Wei , Chang Li‐Xian , Zhao Bei‐Bei , Zheng Yi , Shan Dan‐Dan , Tang Bo‐Hao , Yang Fan , Zhou Yue , Hao Guo‐Xiang , Zhang Ya‐Hui , van den Anker John , Zhu Xiao‐Fan , Zhang Li , Zhao Wei
Published: March 2024

Eltrombopag was approved as a first‐line treatment for patients older than 2 years old with severe aplastic anemia (SAA). However, data on eltrombopag in children with different types of aplastic anemia (AA), especially non‐severe AA (NSAA), are limited. We performed a prospective, single‐arm, and observational study to investigate eltrombopag's efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics in children with NSAA, SAA, and very severe AA (VSAA). The efficacy and safety were assessed every 3 months. The population pharmacokinetic (PPK) model was used to depict the pharmacokinetic profile of eltrombopag. Twenty‐three AA children with an average age of 7.9 (range of 3.0‐14.0) years were enrolled. The response (complete and partial response) rate was 12.5%, 50.0%, and 100.0% after 3, 6, and 12 months in patients with NSAA. For patients with SAA and VSAA, these response rates were 46.7%, 61.5%, and 87.5%. Hepatotoxicity occurred in one patient. Fifty‐three blood samples were used to build the PPK model. Body weight was the only covariate for apparent clearance (CL/F) and volume of distribution. The allele‐T carrier of adenosine triphosphate‐binding cassette transporter G2 was found to increase eltrombopag's clearance. However, when normalized by weight, the clearance between the wild‐type and variant showed no statistical difference. In patients with response, children with NSAA exhibited lower area under the curve from time zero to infinity, higher CL/F, and higher weight‐adjusted CL/F than those with SAA or VSAA. However, the differences were not statistically significant. The results may support further individualized treatment of eltrombopag in children with AA.
Discordance Therapeutic Protocol of Cystic Echinococcosis With WHO Guideline
Authors: Shafiei Reza , Mohajerzadeh Mina Sadat , Masomi Hajar Farah Abad , Tavakoli Maryam , Turki Habibollah , Firouzeh Nima
Published: March 2024

Background

Cystic echinococcosis (CE), a helminth‐associated zoonosis caused by Echinococcus granulosus, poses a significant public health problem, particularly in pastoral‐rearing regions. The lack of uniform guidelines led to variations in CE management. Based on ultrasound data, the World Health Organization Informal Working Group on Echinococcosis (WHO‐IWGE) classification system categorizes cysts into active, transitional, and inactive groups.

This study assesses whether the therapeutic approach from liver human operation cases in North Khorasan province aligns with the WHO‐IWGE reference based on ultrasound data.

Methods

The research is based on ultrasound data from liver CE human operation cases collected between 2018 and 2022. This retrospective study investigates the therapeutic protocol for (CE) in North Khorasan Province, Iran, comparing it with the WHO‐IWGE guidelines. We collect data from previously registered patients' medical information from our studied area's main CE surgical hospital. Moreover, as the first hospitalized survey in Iran, this study reveals insights into patient demographics, cyst stage prevalence, and treatment modalities.

Results

Notably, more than half of the patients were treated for CE1 stage cysts, and CE4 cases, which generally do not require surgery, underwent open surgery. The results suggest a need for adherence to the “watch‐and‐wait” approach in specific cases. All patients underwent successful surgeries, but we do not have access to follow‐up data from patients after discharge.

Conclusions

This descriptive study contributes to understanding the implementation of WHO guidelines in a regional context, shedding light on the challenges and variations in CE management. It seems, retraining courses for surgeons are required to update their knowledge of standard CE diagnostic and treatment methods.
Characteristics and driving mechanism of wetland landscape pattern change in karst region of southwest China over past 35 years: A case study of Caohai wetland in Guizhou
Authors: Mu Guiting , Wen Ximei , Zhang Zhenming
Published: March 2024

To uncover the process of land use change and its driving mechanism of typical wetland ecosystems in the karst region, this thesis conducts a case study on Caohai National Nature Reserve (hereafter referred to as Caohai). With the support of geo‐information technology and the landscape index analysis method, it quantitatively analyzes the magnitudes, speed, and landscape patterns of land use changes over 35 years from 1985 to 2020 using continuous remote sensing images. The results show that the land use structure of Caohai has mainly undergone mutual conversion between farmland and wetland. Before 2005, 164.60 ha of farmland were converted to wetland, from 2005 to 2015, 451.79 ha of wetland were converted to farmland, and from 2015 to 2020, 979.62 ha of farmland were transformed into wetland. The trend for construction land was to decrease first and then increase, with increased construction land primarily coming from farmland and partially from shrubland and forestland. The spatial connectivity of landscape distribution showed a slow decrease to a rapid decrease, then increased and reduced again, while diversity and evenness showed the opposite trend. Rational policies and urban construction planning are essential measures for protecting wetland ecosystems in the karst region.
Tests for homogeneity of distributions of component lifetimes from Type‐II censored system lifetime data with known system structures
Authors: Qu Jingjing , Ng Hon Keung Tony
Published: March 2024

In system reliability analysis, researchers are interested in evaluating the characteristics of the lifetime distribution of components in a system based on system lifetime data. In collecting system lifetime data, a censoring scheme is often adopted due to time and budget constraints. In this article, we consider the situation where the system lifetime data from two different coherent systems are subjected to Type‐II right‐censoring, and we are interested in testing the homogeneity of component lifetime distributions based on Type‐II censored system lifetime data with known system structures. Based on the Mann‐Whitney test and empirical likelihood ratio tests developed for testing the homogeneity of component lifetime distributions with complete system lifetime data, we propose different non‐parametric test procedures using the permutation of the unobserved censored system lifetimes. We consider a restricted assumption on the censored lifetimes to reduce the permutations required in the computation. The computational approaches to obtain the critical values of the proposed test procedures are provided using the Monte Carlo method. A practical example is used to illustrate the proposed test procedures. Then, the power performance of the proposed test procedures is evaluated and compared through a Monte Carlo simulation study. The simulation results show that the proposed test procedures provide comparable power performance for Type‐II censored system lifetime data in contrast to the complete sample case under different scenarios. Finally, recommendations based on the simulation results and concluding remarks are provided.
Association between the early repolarization pattern and nocturnal suicide attempts
Authors: Kameyama Hiroshi , Sugimoto Kenichi , Kodaka Fumitoshi , Okuno Kenji , Masaki Takahiro , Nukariya Kazutaka , Shigeta Masahiro
Published: March 2024

Aim

Numerous recent reports have highlighted the association between mental disorders and electrocardiographic findings. The early repolarization pattern (ERP) on electrocardiogram has been linked with a history of suicide attempts and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and associations with impulsivity have also been reported. It is known that suicidal intent is more common at night. Patients who have a mental disorder and ERP may have a higher likelihood of impulsivity, potentially increasing the risk of suicide at night.

Methods

The subjects were 43 patients with a history of suicide attempts who had undergone electrocardiographic examination at Jikei University School of Medicine Kashiwa Hospital and received intervention from our department. Due to the diurnal variation in electrocardiographic findings, only patients who underwent the examination during the daytime were included. Patients' clinical backgrounds were compared according to the presence or absence of ERP, and the association between nocturnal suicide attempts and ERP was examined using multivariate analysis.

Results

The frequency of nocturnal suicidal behavior was 76.2% in patients with ERP and 31.8% in those without ERP, but the difference was not significant after Bonferroni correction. In the multivariate analysis, there was a significant association of ERP with nocturnal suicide attempts (p = 0.018).

Conclusion

The finding of an association between ERP and nocturnal suicide attempts indicates that ERP is a biological indicator that can predict nocturnal suicide attempts.