bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FRAX assessment in people ageing with HIV
Authors: Mazzitelli Maria , Branca Isabel Pereira , Muramatsu Takashi , Chirwa Mimie , Mandalia Sundhiya , Moyle Graeme , Marta Boffito , Milinkovic Ana
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Current British HIV Association (BHIVA) guidelines recommend the use of FRAX for the routine assessment of bone fracture risk in people living with HIV over 50 years of age every 3 years. Bone mineral density measurement with dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan is recommended for those with increased fracture risk (FRAX major > 10%). Our objectives were to estimate the prevalence of and risk factors for osteoporosis in a population of PLWH aged > 50 years and assess the utility of FRAX in predicting the presence of DXA‐proven osteoporosis in this cohort.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of a cohort of PLWH aged > 50 years attending the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and who had a DXA scan between January 2009 and December 2018. FRAX scores were calculated using the Sheffield algorithm. Multiple regression models and Cohen's kappa values were used to assess risk factors for osteoporosis and agreement between FRAX and DXA scan results, respectively.

Results

In all, 744 patients were included (92.9% male, mean age 56 ± 5 years). The prevalence rates of osteoporosis (at DXA scans) and osteopenia were 12.2% and 63.7%, respectively. FRAX major was > 10% in only two patients, while 90/91 (98.9%) patients with osteoporosis had a normal FRAX score. The presence of osteoporosis was significantly associated with low body mass index and estimated glomerular filtration rate (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our results indicate that FRAX scores did not predict the presence of osteoporosis in our population of PLWH over 50 years of age and therefore FRAX scores may not be the appropriate tool to define eligibility to perform DXA scans in PLWH.
NETWORK EFFECTS AND SWITCHING COSTS IN THE U.S. WIRELESS INDUSTRY
Authors: Weiergraeber Stefan
Published: September 2021

I estimate a model of dynamic consumer behavior to disentangle switching costs and network effects in the U.S. wireless industry. A detailed panel on market shares and churn rates, disaggregated by demographic consumer types and local markets, allows me to separately identify preference heterogeneity, switching costs, and a localized direct network effect. My switching cost estimates range from USD 47 to USD 178. The average willingness‐to‐pay for a 15 percentage point increase in a carrier's market share is USD 8.50 per month. Finally, I show that ignoring either one of the effects results in substantial errors when simulating counterfactuals.
Effects of an earplug placement intervention on sleep quality in patients in a medical intensive care unit: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lin Yun‐Chian , Lin Tsung‐Jen , Liu Chin‐Hung , Chen Yi‐Ting , Lai Hui‐Ling
Published: September 2021

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an intervention involving earplug placement during nocturnal sleep in non‐ventilated intensive care unit patients.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted in 107 adult patients between January 2017 and December 2018. Participants in the intervention group (n = 55) slept with earplugs between 10 pm and 7 am on the second night of their intensive care unit stay. In the control group, participants slept with no earplugs. Outcome parameters included sleep, urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin levels, relaxation responses measured using the Richards–Campbell Sleep Questionnaire, liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry results and vital signs. Urine was collected between 10 pm and 7 am.

Results

Overall, 28.03% of participants showed virtually no 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin excretion in the collected urine. Outcome parameters were not significantly different between the groups, indicating that wearing earplugs alone did not affect sleep quality, urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin and vital signs.

Conclusions

The effects of using earplugs alone on sleep quality, urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin and relaxation responses in patients admitted to the intensive care unit were inconclusive. Additional research is required before earplugs alone can be widely used to improve sleep quality.
Genetic variant interpretation: a primer for clinicians
Authors: Kaushik Varun , Plazzer John‐Paul , Winship Ingrid , Macrae Finlay
Published: September 2021

Clinicians beyond specialist genetic services are now able to order tests to interrogate the genetic basis of disease. Behind every genetic report lies a significant body of work that draws on decades of collaboration between clinicians, researchers and database curators. Understanding these advances in genetic variant interpretation may allow practising clinicians to develop a more nuanced appreciation of the role genetic variant interpretation can play in the diagnosis and management of heritable disorders. In this article, we consider genetic variant interpretation with reference to efforts to better understand variation in the mismatch repair genes and their relation to Lynch syndrome – the most common cause of hereditary colon cancer.
Mixed responses to first‐line alectinib in non‐small cell lung cancer patients with rare ALK gene fusions: A case series and literature review
Authors: Li Mengnan , An Zhou , Tang Qiusu , Ma Yutong , Yan Junrong , Chen Songan , Wang Yina
Published: September 2021

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion is a well‐defined biomarker for ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) treatment in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Alectinib, a second‐generation ALK‐TKI, has been shown to have significantly longer progression‐free survival (PFS) than first‐generation ALK inhibitors in untreated ALK‐rearranged NSCLC patients. However, its clinical efficacy on rare ALK fusions remains unclear. Herein, two advanced NSCLC patients received first‐line alectinib treatment, given their positive ALK fusion status as determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) testing results. Patients showed limited clinical response (PFS: 4 months) and primary resistance to alectinib respectively. Molecular profiling using next‐generation sequencing (NGS) further revealed a striatin (STRN)‐ALK fusion in the first patient accompanied by MET amplification, and a LIM domain only protein 7 (LMO7)‐ALK fusion in another patient without any other known oncogenic alterations. Both patients demonstrated improved survival after they switched to second‐line crizotinib (PFS: 11 months) and ensartinib (PFS: 18 months), respectively, up till the last follow‐up assessment. In conclusion, the clinical efficacy of ALK‐TKIs including alectinib for lung cancer with uncommon ALK gene fusions is still under evaluation. This study and literature review results showed mixed responses to alectinib in NSCLC patients who harboured rare ALK fusions. Comprehensive molecular profiling of tumour is thus strongly warranted for precise treatment strategies.
The efficacy and the adverse reactions of laser‐assisted tattoo removal – a prospective split study using nanosecond and picosecond lasers
Authors: Bäumler W. , Breu C. , Philipp B. , Haslböck B. , Berneburg M. , Weiß K.T.
Published: September 2021

Background

Laser pulses with nanosecond duration (NSL) have been the golden standard to destroy the pigment particles in skin. It is still controversially discussed whether picosecond pulses (PSL) are superior for tattoo removal.

Objectives

To compare the efficacy and the adverse reactions of nanosecond and picosecond laser pulses in a comparative study.

Methods

The prospective study included 23 subjects with 30 black or coloured tattoos, which were split into two halves treated with either a new PSL (532, 1064 nm) or standard NSL (694 nm). The lasers were applied at regular time intervals of 4 weeks for up to eight treatments. Tattoo clearance (primary endpoint), pain and adverse reactions (secondary endpoints) were appraised by physicians, blinded observers, and by subjects. The extent and duration of adverse reactions were additionally assessed by using a questionnaire and photo‐documentation after each treatment session.

Results

The tattoo clearance appeared to be more effective for PSL compared to NSL but without statistical significance (P > 0.05). Pretreated tattoos responded better to laser treatments than previously untreated tattoos. Subjects felt significantly less pain with PSL than with NSL (P < 0.001). Transient adverse reactions were statistically less pronounced lasting shorter for PSL as for NSL, especially blistering, pruritus, and burning sensation. Hypopigmentation appeared after NSL treatments only, whereas hyperpigmentation was caused by both lasers. No scarring was detected with either laser.

Conclusions

Both laser systems enable acceptable clearance of most tattoos in the present study. PSL cause less collateral skin damage as compared to NSL.
Competency‐based assessment in nutrition education: A systematic literature review
Authors: O'Donovan Sarah , Palermo Claire , Ryan Lisa
Published: September 2021

Background

A suitably prepared and qualified nutrition and dietetics workforce is part of the solution to combating the burden of disease. Competency‐based assessment is a key part of the education of future workforces. Although there has been recent attention on competency‐based assessment in dietetics, there is little exploration of competency‐based education for the preparation of nutritionists. The present study aimed to understand how competency‐based assessment is implemented and evaluated in nutrition education.

Methods

A systematic literature review was carried out according to PRISMA guidelines. Four databases were initially searched in February 2020 using key words related to competenc* in combination with nutrition or dietetic and their synonyms. An updated search was completed again in March 2021. Studies that met eligibility criteria where the focus was on nutrition and involved a method of competency‐based assessment were synthesised narratively.

Results

From a total of 6262 titles and abstracts, six studies on competency assessment in nutrition education were identified. The assessments focused on the development of key skills, including motivational interviewing and nutrition assessment, changes to knowledge and attitudes on food and culture, and self‐perceived development of communication, collaboration, management, advocacy, scholarship and professional capabilities. No studies were found that assessed promotion of health and wellbeing or the food chain competencies.

Conclusions

The lack of research in competency‐based assessment must be addressed to ensure we are effectively preparing future nutritionists for work such that they can impact health outcomes.
The LEDs move pilot study: the Light Curtain and physical activity and well‐being among people with visual and intellectual disabilities
Authors: Enkelaar L. , Oosterom‐Calo R. , Zhou D. , Nijhof N. , Barakova E. , Sterkenburg P.
Published: September 2021

Background

Moving around and being physically active can often be challenging for people with a visual impairment. The combination of a visual and intellectual disability can make being physically active even more difficult. The aim of the current study was to examine whether a technological device for physical activity promotion would be associated with more movement and whether using it would be experienced as enjoyable for people with visual and intellectual disabilities.

Methods

A randomised multiple baseline design was used for this study. The participants were nine adults with a visual impairment and an IQ between 20 and 50. As participants interacted with the Light Curtain, movement was measured with triaxial accelerometers embedded in the Empatica E4 wristband. Independent observers scored activity, alertness and well‐being from video‐recordings using the following observation lists: the Happiness Feature Score (HFS) and the Arousal and Valence Scale (AVS).

Results

Physical activity measured with the accelerometer and positive excitement measured with the AVS significantly increased among participants when they were engaged with the Light Curtain compared with care‐as‐usual activities. Well‐being measured with the HFS did not show a significant difference between the baseline and intervention phases.

Conclusions

Engagement with the Light Curtain increased physical activity and positive excitement in persons with visual and intellectual disabilities, but more research is necessary to understand how the Light Curtain might affect happiness and well‐being.
The psychological impact of COVID‐19 pandemic on patients with neuroendocrine tumors: Between resilience and vulnerability
Authors: Lauricella Eleonora , Cives Mauro , Bracigliano Alessandra , Clemente Ottavia , Felici Valentina , Lippolis Rossella , Amoruso Brunella , Pelle' Eleonora , Mandriani Barbara , Esposto Chiara , Forte Cira , Perri Francesco , Porta Camillo , Tafuto Salvatore
Published: September 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic has added another layer of complexity to the fears of patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). Little is known regarding the psychological impact of the COVID‐19 outbreak on patients with gastroenteropancreatic or bronchopulmonary (BP) NETs. We longitudinally surveyed the mental symptoms and concerns of NET patients during the plateau phase of the first (W1) and second epidemic waves (W2) in Italy. Seven specific constructs (depression, anxiety, stress, health‐related quality of life, NET‐related quality of life, patient–physician relationship, psychological distress) were investigated using validated screening instruments, including DASS‐21, EORTC QLQ‐C30, EORTC QLQ GI.NET21, PDRQ9 and IES‐R. We enrolled 197 patients (98 males) with a median age of 62 years. The majority of the patients had G1/G2 neoplasms. Some 38% of the patients were on active treatment. At W1, the prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress was 32%, 36% and 26% respectively. The frequency of depression and anxiety increased to 38% and 41% at W2, whereas no modifications were recorded in the frequency of stress. Poor educational status was associated with higher levels of anxiety at both W1 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.33 ± 0.22;p = .07) and W2 (OR = 1.45 ± 0.26;p = .03). Notably, post‐traumatic stress symptoms were observed in the 58% of the patients, and both single marital status (OR = 0.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.06–0.48;p = .0009) and low levels of formal education (OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.23–0.99;p = .05) predicted their occurrence. No significant deteriorations of health‐related quality of life domains were observed from W1 to W2. High patient care satisfaction was documented despite the changes in health systems resource allocation. NET patients have an increased risk of developing post‐traumatic stress symptoms as result of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Specific screening measures and psychological interventions should be implemented in NET clinics to prevent, recognize and treat mental distress in this vulnerable population.
Voices from the ‘resus room': An integrative review of the resuscitation experiences of nurses
Authors: Riley Katherine , Middleton Rebekkah , Wilson Val , Molloy Luke
Published: September 2021

Background

Nurses are often the first responders to resuscitations. Understanding their experiences of resuscitation will highlight the resuscitative context nurses work within and identify the conditions that support or hamper their delivery of safe and effective resuscitative care.

Aim

The aim of this integrative review is to develop an understanding of nurses' experience of resuscitation, to gain knowledge of their challenges and identify gaps in evidence.

Design

Integrative review.

Methods

The electronic databases CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science were systematically searched from 2000–2021. Methodological quality of the papers was evaluated using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 checklist was used to guide and report the integrative review.

Results

Eleven articles met criteria for review. Four themes arose from the literature that addressed nurses experiences of resuscitation: Chaos (external/internal), ethical dilemmas, clinical confidence and need for support.

Conclusion

Nurses' experiences of resuscitation are multifaceted. Addressing the challenges that nurses experience during resuscitation will help ensure that nurses' are supported in their professional growth and personal well‐being.

Relevance to clinical practice and research: Building nursing leadership capacity within resuscitations is an area of clinical practice/research that is gaining traction as a valid solution to address the challenges nurses experience during resuscitations. Whilst the barriers to debriefing requires a greater level of consideration within the workplace.
A survey of nurses prescribing in diabetes care: Practices, barriers and facilitators in New Zealand and the United Kingdom
Authors: Snell Helen , Budge Claire , Courtenay Molly
Published: September 2021

Aims and objectives

To compare diabetes‐related prescribing practices, barriers and facilitators amongst nurse prescribers in New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

Background

Nurses have been prescribing in the United Kingdom for many years but nurse prescribing in New Zealand is relatively recent. It is unknown whether similar system factors act to facilitate or limit prescribing.

Design

A survey of 250 nurses prescribing in diabetes care in New Zealand (n = 111) and the United Kingdom (n = 139).

Methods

A SurveyMonkey questionnaire was used to survey nurses about the extent of their prescribing practices, and barriers and facilitators experienced. Quantitative data were explored descriptively, and qualitative responses were grouped according to content, with quotes provided to exemplify thematic content. This study is reported following STROBE guidelines.

Results

Insulin, metformin and sulphonylureas are the drugs most frequently prescribed in both countries. Considerably more New Zealand than United Kingdom nurses reported prescribing for cardiovascular and renal disease. In both countries, direct prescribing to the patient was most common, followed by remote prescribing in New Zealand and via recommendation to other prescribers in the United Kingdom. Most common barriers were lack of time and inadequate mentoring. Most common facilitators were as follows: good supervision; collegial relationships with specialists, pharmacists and peers; and ongoing education.

Conclusions

These New Zealand and United Kingdom nurses are prescribing a broad range of diabetes‐related medications. Similar barriers and facilitators were identified in both countries. Adequate supervision, support from multidisciplinary team colleagues and prescribing education and guidelines are paramount.

Relevance to clinical practice

Important insights on barriers and facilitators to implementation of nurse prescribing in two countries are highlighted and, despite a considerable difference in the longevity of prescribing practice, similar issues were identified.
Effect of selected natural and synthetic substances on rabbit reproduction–A mini review
Authors: Svoradová Andrea , Baláži Andrej , Chrenek Peter
Published: September 2021

Numerous natural and synthetic substances have effects on reproduction through several mechanisms. This review aims to summarize the impact of green tea (GT), yucca schidigera (YS) extract, curcuma longa (CL), adenosine 3′,5′‐cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) and isobutyl‐1‐methyl‐xanthine (IBMX) stimulators on rabbit reproduction performance. To obtain a comprehensive overview of this topic, the keywords “reproduction,” “substances,” “spermatogenesis,” “embryogenesis,”hormonal profil“, “green tea”, “yucca schidigera” were searched in such databases as WOS and PubMed to obtain relevant information. Spermatozoa profile was positively effected by the GT and YS, however, cAMP inhibitors stimulated spermatozoa motility resulted in positive or negative effects depending on the doses. Similarly, embryogenesis and hormonal profile were positively influenced by the GT, YS, cAMP and IBMX in a proper administration dose. Further research is needed to improve current knowledge about these substances to identify potential effects on the other reproduction parameters. Furthermore, future studies should combine GT, YS and CL with different plant extracts to determine their effects on spermatozoa status, embryogenesis as well as hormonal profile as key outcomes. This review summarizes current knowledge about effect of natural and synthetic substances on rabbit reproduction.
Syringe services programs in the Bluegrass: Evidence of population health benefits using Kentucky Medicaid data
Authors: Bushling Cameron , Walton Matthew T. , Conner Kailyn L. , Liu Gilbert , Hoven Ardis , Joseph Jessin , Taylor Angela
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To evaluate whether Kentucky counties that established a new syringe services program realized a significant decline in the incidence rate of a set of infectious disease diagnoses commonly transmitted via injection drug use.

Methods

Longitudinal count models of within‐county rates of newly diagnosed infections among populations at risk were estimated using Medicaid claims/encounters data. Generalized estimating equation models were used to report incident rate ratios of 6 diagnoses: (1) HIV; (2) hepatitis C; (3) hepatitis B; (4) osteomyelitis; (5) endocarditis; and (6) skin/soft tissue infection. To investigate whether a delay in effect was present, separate models were fit to estimate the effects of establishing a syringe services program: at its opening date, and again at 1, 3, and 6 months postopening date.

Findings

Taken together, the aggregated within‐county incidence rate of these 6 diagnoses was significantly lower following the implementation of a syringe services program (P < .05). Our models estimated that counties which opted to open a syringe services program realized an approximate month‐over‐month decline in new diagnoses of 0.5% among the population at risk.

Conclusions

These results lend further support to previous conclusions made in the public health literature regarding the efficacy of syringe services programs. Specifically, declines in incidence rates were observable beginning at 1 month post syringe services program opening. These results are particularly notable due to the typical setting in which these syringe services programs operated—rural communities of fewer than 40,000 residents.
Pour‐on administration of eprinomectin to lactating dairy goats: Pharmacokinetics and anthelmintic efficacy
Authors: Hamel Dietmar , Kvaternick Valerie , Kellermann Michael , Visser Martin , Mayr Sandra , Fankhauser Becky , Rehbein Steffen
Published: September 2021

Lactation is discussed as a physiological covariate which may influence the exposure characteristics of systemically acting drugs including macrocyclic lactones and potentially alter their pharmacological response. This study characterizes for the first time in the same study, the plasma profile and therapeutic anthelmintic efficacy of eprinomectin 5 mg/ml solution (EPRINEX®Multi, Boehringer Ingelheim) administered as a pour‐on at 1 mg per kg body weight to lactating dairy goats. The study was conducted in compliance with VICH GCP and anthelmintic efficacy evaluation guidelines and included 20 goats harboring induced adult gastrointestinal and pulmonary nematode infections. The goats were blocked on pre‐treatment body weight and randomly allocated either to remain untreated (control) or to be eprinomectin‐treated. Plasma samples to determine the plasma disposition kinetics of eprinomectin (B1a component) were obtained at intervals up to 14 days following treatment when the animals were necropsied for parasite enumeration and identification. Basic pharmacokinetic parameters of eprinomectin determined in the ten eprinomectin‐treated goats were as follows: AUClast, 23.8 ± 9.7 day*ng/ml andCmax, 5.35 ± 2.27 ng/ml; individual maximum plasma concentrations were observed from 8 to 48 h after treatment (medianTmax, 0.5 days). Topical eprinomectin treatment efficacy, based on significant (p < .01) worm burden reductions in eprinomectin‐treated animals relative to untreated controls, was ≥97% to 100% against adultDictyocaulus filaria,Haemonchus contortus,Teladorsagia circumcincta(pinnata/trifurcata),Trichostrongylus axei,T. colubriformis,Cooperia curticei,Nematodirus battus, andOesophagostomum venulosum. Both pharmacokinetic parameters and anthelmintic activity in lactating dairy goats were similar to those observed in parasitized young growing and adult female non‐lactating dairy goats treated with eprinomectin administered as a pour‐on.
The improvement in body composition including subcutaneous and visceral fat reduces ammonia and hepatic encephalopathy after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt
Authors: Gioia Stefania , Ridola Lorenzo , Cristofaro Ludovica , Merli Manuela , Faccioli Jessica , Riggio Oliviero , Nardelli Silvia
Published: September 2021

Background

Sarcopenia and myosteatosis have been associated to a poor prognosis of cirrhosis and to a higher incidence of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). The prognostic implications of visceral and subcutaneous adiposity are less known.

Aim

To evaluate the modifications of visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue after TIPS and to investigate their relationships with the modification of muscle mass and with the incidence of post‐TIPS HE.

Patients and Methods

35 cirrhotic patients submitted to TIPS were retrospectively studied. The modification of skeletal muscle index (SMI), muscle attenuation (myosteatosis), subcutaneous adipose tissue index (SATI), visceral adipose tissue index (VATI), assessed by CT‐scan and plasma ammonia were evaluated before and after a mean follow‐up of 19 ± 15 months after TIPS. The number of episodes of overt HE was also recorded.

Results

During the follow‐up, the mean SMI and muscle attenuation increased significantly; SATI significantly increased while VATI significantly decreased, although not uniformly in all patients. By comparing the patients with or without improvement in their nutritional status after TIPS, MELD remained stable while the number of episodes of overt HE was significantly lower in the patients with improved SMI and in the patients with improved SATI. Finally, inverse correlation was observed between the variation of ammonia and SATI (r = −.40; P < .05).

Conclusion

In addition to muscle mass, adipose tissue is modified after TIPS. The improvement of subcutaneous adipose tissue as well as of sarcopenia and myosteatosis is associated to the amelioration of cognitive impairment independently of liver function. The correlation between adipose tissue and ammonia modification may suggest an active role of the adipose tissue in the inter‐organ ammonia trafficking.
The occurrence of vulnerable seagrass species Halophila beccarii Ascherson, 1871 from restored mangrove of Koduvally Estuary, south‐west coast of India
Authors: Prabhakaran Meethal Parambath , Jayachandran Paravanparambil Rajakumar , Bijoy Nandan Sivasankaran
Published: September 2021

The ocean turf grass, Halophila beccarii Ascherson, 1871 was recorded for the first time in the intertidal region of the restored mangrove ecosystem of the Koduvally Estuary on the south‐west coast of India. It was found co‐existing in the shallow muddy area of the mangroves, dominated by mangrove trees of Rhizophora mucronata and Sonneratia alba, and macroalgae, Ulva sp., Enteromorpha sp. and Chaetomorpha sp. The meadow is sparsely scattered with shoots near the mangroves, with a mean density of 720 shoots/m2. Details regarding the morphology and hydrographic conditions are described. The occurrence of H. beccarii in the Koduvally estuary is an encouraging sign of improved ecosystem health through mangrove restoration. The development of seagrass meadow in the estuary will improve the sediment stability and water quality. A further comprehensive study on the spatiotemporal variation of this species in the estuary is also recommended for conservation and management of this vulnerable seagrass species.
Endemic Lake Baringo Oreochromis niloticus fishery on verge of collapse: Review of causes and strategies directed to its recovery, conservation and management for sustainable exploitation
Authors: Nyakeya Kobingi , Chemoiwa Emily , Nyamora Jane Moraa , Ogombe Cyprian Odoli , Gichana Zipporah Moraa , Mbaru Emmanuel Kakunde , Masese Frank Onderi , Aura Christopher Mulanda , Nyamweya Chrispine , Njiru James , Ondiba Robert , Basweti Evans
Published: September 2021

Lake Baringo is a Ramsar‐designated water body facing a myriad environmental challenges attributable to anthropogenic activities, thereby being an ecosystem under perturbation. At the same time, however, it is an important aquatic resource not only to the local community, but also to the international arena because of its rich biodiversity. It supports an artisanal fishery with four major fish of economic importance, including Oreochromis niloticus, Protopterus aethiopicus, Clarias gariepinus and Barbus intermidus australis. The once‐vibrant O. niloticus fishery that flourished before the small town of Kampi ya Samaki was transformed into a beehive of activity on the shores of the lake is no longer sustainable. O. niloticus contributed over 80% of the landed total catch up to the year 2002, averaging >600 tons annually, but had declined to about 12 tons annually by the year 2006. The introduced P. aethiopicus is currently the major fishery, representing more than 75% of the total fish landings, with the O. niloticus landing being just 1%. Although O. niloticus is listed as ‘endangered’ in the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species, it is evident that its fishery is threatened with a total collapse if sound management strategies are not implemented. Accordingly, the present study reviewed past studies on the Lake Baringo O. niloticus and critically analysed the possible reasons for its decline, as well as possible strategies directed to its recovery, conservation and management for sustainable exploitation.
Spatial and temporal distribution of an invasive crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) in Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe
Authors: Marufu Lightone T. , Barson Maxwell , Phiri Crispen , Nhiwatiwa Tamuka
Published: September 2021

Determining the extent of invasion by an aquatic invasive species is the first step to informing effective management strategies. The spatial and temporal distribution of an introduced invasive crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) in Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe was investigated to determine the extent of the invasion. Five lakewide surveys across the five basins of the lake (Sanyati; Bumi; Sengwa; Mlibizi; Binga) were conducted between March 2014 and July 2016. Monthly sampling for crayfish and physico‐chemical parameters was done in the Sanyati basin from January to December 2013. Presence/absence data from the lakewide surveys indicated that the crayfish had spread to three of the five basins by July 2016; namely, the Sanyati, Bubi and Sengwa basins. There was a general decrease in the total and average number of crayfish caught with each consecutive lakewide survey. Out of 19 sampled sites in the Sanyati basin, crayfish were found to be present at 16 sites, including both protected and unprotected areas, and in all substrate types (muddy, sandy and rocky substrates). Crayfish catches differed significantly over time (months), with a general increase from January and peaking in July, after which a decrease was observed until September before it steadily increased again in December. Crayfish catches differed significantly among the sites in the Sanyati basin. Temperature and electrical conductivity significantly affected the CPUE of C. quadricarinatus, with an increase in both parameters being associated with a decreased CPUE (p < 0.05; Generalized Linear Mixed Models). The results of the current study indicate C. quadricarinatus is now in the spread stage of the invasion process and is making use of all habitats in the lake. Increased trapping and containment to prevent further spread should be considered as management options.
Mapping the chlorophyll‐a concentrations in hypereutrophic Krishnagiri Reservoir (India) using Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager
Authors: Elangovan Arunbabu , Murali Vidya
Published: September 2021

Krishnagiri Reservoir exhibits a hypereutrophic status and continuously receives external sediment and nutrient loads, in addition to its internal phosphorus loading, both affecting the reservoir water quality. Increased nutrient loading attributable to changing anthropogenic activities in the catchment area will further exacerbate the deteriorating trophic status. Temporal Satellite imageries can play a crucial role in the rapid assessment of the trophic status of the reservoir over a large spatial extent. The eutrophication status of freshwater systems is directly related to the chlorophyll‐a (Chl‐a) concentration, which represents a major trophic state indicator by reflecting green and absorbing violet‐blue and orange‐red light of the solar energy spectrum. The present study was undertaken to map seasonal Chl‐a concentration variations using Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager (OLI) images. Multiple regression equations developed using reflectance in the Green, Near Infrared, Shortwave Infrared 1 and 2 and Coastal bands (R2 = .635) were found to be the best fit of the model in mapping the Chl‐a concentration variations in Krishnagiri Reservoir. The derived regression model also can be used to determine the trophic state of the reservoir and can facilitate a more rapid assessment for developing management strategies for sustainable reservoir water quality management.
Assessment of the nutritional quality of fish cultured in Samdihi, an open cast coalpit at the Raniganj Coal Field areas, West Bengal, India
Authors: Mandal Arghya , Biswas Trisha , Mondal Niladri Sekhar , Dey Sukhendu , Patra Atanu , Das Subhas , Mondal Arnab Kumar , Dey Amit Kumar , Ghosh Apurba Ratan
Published: September 2021

The present study assessed the nutritional quality of four major teleostean fishes (Catla catla; Labeo rohita; Notopterus notopterus and Oreochromis niloticus) cultured in the Samdihi, an opencast coalpit (OCP). The physicochemical parameters were within the pisciculture standard limits, and the heavy metal contents of the fish were within safe concentrations and below the target hazard quotient (THQ) level (<1). The zooplankton abundance and density were sufficient as food item for the fish faunas. Ash and moisture contents confirmed the good quality of the fish as food. The results of the other analysed nutritional parameters indicated the total protein content was highest in the herbivorous fish Labeo rohita (85.32 ± 0.61 mg/g), compared to Catla catla, Notopterus notopterus and Oreochromis niloticus (50.34 ± 0.43, 71.32 ± 0.49 and 75.14 ± 0.53 mg/g, respectively). The order of decreasing lipid content was Notopterus notopterus > Catla catla > Labeo rohita > Oreochromis niloticus (7.04 ± 1.02 > 6.01 ± 0.01 > 1.83 ± 0.03 > 1.46 ± 0.04%). The percentage of carbohydrates was highest in the omnivorous Oreochromis niloticus (18.2 ± 0.8), followed by Notopterus notopterus, Catla catla and Labeo rohita (15.1 ± 0.7, 13.9 ± 0.5 and 9.4 ± 0.4, respectively). The sodium content was higher in the column feeders Labeo rohita (82.06 ± 0.61 mg/g) and Notopterus notopterus (81.87 ± 0.61 mg/g) than in the surface feeders Catla catla (69.16 ± 0.55 mg/g) and Oreochromis niloticus (79.33 ± 0.60 mg/g). The potassium content exhibited similar trends, being higher in the column feeders Notopterus notopterus (204.8 ± 1.52 mg/g) and Labeo rohita (199.5 ± 1.81 mg/g) than in the surface feeders Oreochromis niloticus (190.8 ± 1.13 mg/g) and Catla catla (183.2 ± 1.3) mg/g). The trend in iron content was in the order of Oreochromis niloticus > Labeo rohita > Notopterus notopterus > Catla catla (5.60 ± 0.01 > 4.806 ± 0.01 > 4.25 ± 0.01 > 1.303 ± 0.01 mg/g, respectively). The results of the present study highlight the potential and feasibility of conducting pisciculture in the abandoned OCP as a means increasing the economic livelihoods of the core group of people in and around the mining areas of RCF regions. The estimated fish nutritional index (EFNI) analysis also revealed the fish cultured in this OCP exhibited a good nutritional quality standard.
A review of the importance, gaps and future directions of Integrated Lake Basin Management Planning in Malaysia
Authors: Sharip Zati , Zakaria Salmah , Md Noh Md Nasir , Nakamura Masahisa , Muhandiki Victor
Published: September 2021

The present study assessed the importance of basin management plans for managing lakes in Malaysia within the context of Integrated Lake Basin Management (ILBM) governance principles. Although ILBM has been promoted since 2007, less than 2% of the lakes in the country have basin management plan in place. Most of these management plans need to be fully adopted, reviewed and evolved as living documents by all relevant stakeholders for successful lake basin management. Increasing demands for resources and development within catchments, as well as emerging threats, require integrated management of lake resources for sustainable use, highlighting the need to develop basin management plans for all other lakes to support their effective management. The present study also provides a narrative for developing an ILBM plan, including consideration of lake characteristics, the linked lentic–lotic water systems comprising lake basins, ecosystem services, participatory planning and for performing continuous lake governance improvements within a cyclical process. Management planning for lakes should address specific focus areas or major threats, continuing the process until all its relevant governance pillars are strengthened. These ILBM plans can eventually be integrated to the larger river basin management and state water resources management planning towards effective water governance.
Seasonal water‐level fluctuations and changes in macro‐benthic community structure in tropical reservoirs: A Sri Lankan case study
Authors: Weerakoon Sampath N. , Chandrasekara W. Upali , Amarasinghe Upali S.
Published: September 2021

Seasonal water‐level fluctuations (WLFs) in reservoirs influence ecological processes, in turn affecting their benthic macroinvertebrate communities. The present study was carried out in 10 irrigation reservoirs of Sri Lanka to investigate the effects of seasonal WLFs on the benthic macroinvertebrate fauna. The study period was divided into two distinct phases: the drained period and the inundated period. Benthic macroinvertebrates were sampled during both periods and enumerated. Air temperature and soil quality parameters were also measured simultaneously, and hydrological data related to the Kala Oya River basin were obtained from irrigation authorities. Data analysis using non‐metric multi‐dimensional scaling revealed two distinct reservoir groups, namely, Hydrological Stress Group 1 (HSG1) and Hydrological Stress Group 2 (HSG2). A low hydrological residence time and low relative reservoir level fluctuations (RRLF) characterized HSG1, with the opposite describing HSG2. Temporal variations of macrobenthos indicated a high taxa richness and diversity in HSG1 reservoirs during the drained period, with scrapers and collector‐gatherers being the dominant functional feeding groups. Reservoirs in the lower river basin (HSG1) exhibited a high taxa richness and diversity. During the inundated periods, insect taxa colonized, particularly, chironomids and ephemeropterans. Molluscan taxa were prominent during the drained periods. These observations highlight the influence of seasonal fluctuations of reservoir water levels on benthic macroinvertebrates. Benthic macroinvertebrate communities in reservoirs were significantly influenced by the RRLF, manifesting the importance of hydrological regimes in reservoirs to develop macroinvertebrate metrics for water‐quality monitoring.
Incursions of divergent genotypes, evolution of virulence and host jumps shape a continental clonal population of the stripe rust pathogen Puccinia striiformis
Authors: Ding Yi , Cuddy Will S. , Wellings Colin R. , Zhang Peng , Thach Tine , Hovmøller Mogens S. , Qutob Dinah , Brar Gurcharn S. , Kutcher Hadley R. , Park Robert F.
Published: September 2021

Long‐distance migration and host adaptation by transboundary plant pathogens often brings detrimental effects to important agroecosystems. Efficient surveillance as a basis for responding to the dynamics of such pathogens is often hampered by a lack of information on incursion origin, evolutionary pathways and the genetic basis of rapidly evolving virulence across larger timescales. Here, we studied these genetic features by using historical isolates of the obligate biotrophic pathogen Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), which causes one of the most widespread and devastating diseases, stripe (yellow) rust, of wheat. Through a combination of genotypic, phenotypic and genomic analyses, we assigned eight Pst isolates representing putative exotic Pst incursions into Australia to four previously defined genetic groups, PstS0, PstS1, PstS10 and PstS13. We showed that isolates of an additional incursion of P. striiformis, known locally as P. striiformis f. sp. pseudo‐hordei, had a new and unique multilocus SSR genotype (MLG). We provide results of overall genomic variation of representative Pst isolates from each genetic group by comparative genomic analyses. We showed that isolates within the PstS1 and PstS13 genetic groups are most distinct at the whole‐genome variant level from isolates belonging to genetic group PstS0, whereas the isolate from the PstS10 genetic group is intermediate. We further explored variable gene content, including putative effectors, representing both shared but also unique genetic changes that have occurred following introduction, some of which may additionally account for local adaptation of these isolates to triticale. Our genotypic and genomic data revealed new genetic insights into the evolution of diverse phenotypes of rust pathogens following incursion into a geographically isolated continental region.
Student ethnicity predicts social learning experiences, self‐regulatory focus and grades
Authors: van Andel Chantal E. E. , Born Marise P. , van den Broek Walter W. , Stegers‐Jager Karen M.
Published: September 2021

Context

Ethnic minority students find that their ethnicity negatively affects the evaluation of their capacities and their feelings in medical school. This study tests whether ethnic minority and majority students differ in their ‘self‐regulatory focus’ in clinical training, that is, their ways to approach goals, due to differences in social learning experiences. Self‐regulatory focus consists of a promotion and prevention focus. People who are prone to stereotypes and unfair treatments are more likely to have a prevention focus and conceal certain identity aspects. The objectives of the study are to test whether ethnic minority students, as compared with ethnic majority students, are equally likely to have a promotion focus, but more likely to have a prevention focus in clinical training due to more negative social learning experiences (Hypothesis 1), and whether the relationship between student ethnicity and clinical evaluations can be explained by students' gender, social learning experiences, self‐regulatory focus and impression management (Hypothesis 2).

Methods

Survey and clinical evaluation data of 312 (71.2% female) clerks were collected and grouped into 215 ethnic majority (69.4%) and 95 ethnic minority students (30.6%). Students' social learning experiences were measured as perceptions of unfair treatment, trust in supervisors and social academic fit. Self‐regulatory focus (general and work specific) and impression management were also measured. A parallel mediation model (Hypothesis 1) and hierarchical multiple regression analyses were used (Hypothesis 2).

Results

Ethnic minority students had higher perceptions of unfair treatment and lower trust in their supervisors in clinical training. They were more prevention focused in clinical training, but this was not mediated by having more negative social learning experiences. Lower clinical evaluations for ethnic minority students were unexplained. Promotion focus in clinical training and trust in supervisors positively relate to clinical grades.

Conclusion

Student ethnicity predicts social learning experiences, self‐regulatory focus and grades in clinical training. The hidden curriculum plausibly plays a role here.
Intravascular large B‐cell lymphoma affecting multiple cranial nerves: A histopathological study
Authors: Porzionato Andrea , Pelletti Guido , Barzon Luisa , Contran Martina , Emmi Aron , Arminio Angelo , Macchi Veronica , De Caro Raffaele
Published: September 2021

Intravascular large B‐cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a rare form of lymphomas with poor prognosis, characterized by atypical lymphocytes selectively growing within the lumen of small or medium‐sized vessels. Here, we report a case of intracerebral IVLBCL in a 54‐year‐old man who died three months after symptom onset. The diagnosis was made by postmortem pathological examination, based on the identification of multiple ischemic lesions, with small or medium‐sized vessels filled with malignant B‐cells, in the cerebral hemispheres, cerebellum, midbrain, and medulla oblongata, including the external cuneate nucleus and trigeminal spinal tract nucleus. Apart from necrotic lesions, specific histopathological search for occluded vessels in the other brain stem structures permitted identification of significant involvement of the cuneate nucleus, solitary tract nucleus, hypoglossal nucleus, and inferior olivary complex. Small vessels affected by IVLBCL were also found in the trunks of the oculomotor, trigeminal, glossopharyngeal, vagal, and hypoglossal nerves. These histopathological findings were consistent with some cranial nerve symptoms/signs ascertained during hospitalization, such as diplopia, dysphonia, and asymmetry/hypomotility of the palatal veil. The case study presented here reports novel insights on radiological, anatomical, and clinical correlations of the IVLBCL, including the possible involvement of nuclei and trunks of multiple cranial nerves. The reported findings may help clinicians in the early identification of this rapidly progressive disease that can be easily misdiagnosed, through integrated neuroradiological, neurological and neuropathological approaches.
The rice EP3 and OsFBK1 E3 ligases alter plant architecture and flower development, and affect transcript accumulation of microRNA pathway genes and their targets
Authors: Borna Rita S. , Murchie Erik H. , Pyke Kevin A. , Roberts Jeremy A. , Gonzalez‐Carranza Zinnia H.
Published: September 2021

ERECTA PANICLE 3 (EP3) and ORYZA SATIVA F‐BOX KELCH 1 (OsFBK1) proteins share 57% and 54% sequence identity with the Arabidopsis F‐box protein HAWAIIAN SKIRT (HWS). Previously we showed that EP3 is a functional orthologue of HWS. Here we demonstrate that OsFBK1 is another functional orthologue of HWS and show the complexity of interaction between EP3 and OsFBK1 genes at different developmental stages of the plant. qRT‐PCR expression analyses and studies of EP3‐GFP and OsFBK1‐RFP promoter reporter lines demonstrate that although EP3 and OsFBK1 expression can be detected in the same tissues some cells exclusively express EP3 or OsFBK1 whilst others co‐express both genes. Loss, reduction or gain‐of‐function lines for EP3 and OsFBK1, show that EP3 and OsFBK1 affect plant architecture, organ size, floral organ number and size, floral morphology, pollen viability, grain size and weight. We have identified the putative orthologue genes of the rice microRNA pathway for ORYZA SATIVA DAWDLE (OsDDL) and ORYZA SATIVA SERRATE (OsSE), and demonstrated that EP3 and OsFBK1 affect their transcript levels as well as those of CROWN ROOT DEFECT 1/ORYZA SATIVA Exportin‐5 HASTY (CRD1/OsHST), ORYZA SATIVA DICER‐LIKE 1 (OsDCL) and ORYZA SATIVA WEAVY LEAF1 (OsWAF1). We show that EP3 affects OsPri‐MIR164, OsNAM1 and OsNAC1 transcript levels. OsNAC1 transcripts are modified by OsFBK1, suggesting two independent regulatory pathways, one via EP3 and OsMIR164 and the other via OsFBK1. Our data propose that EP3 and OsFBK1 conjointly play similar roles in rice to how HWS does in Arabidopsis.