bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the issue of mortality and health problems in rural settlements.
Authors:   N. A. Semashko National Research Institute of Public Health, Karpova O. B. , Zagoruychenko A. A. ,   N. A. Semashko National Research Institute of Public Health
Published: April 2024

In the Russian Federation, the problem of reducing population mortality, incl. in rural settlements. Strategic guidelines and initiatives adopted in regulatory documents at the federal level do not reflect the severity and depth of demographic challenges and processes of depopulation in modern conditions. The purpose of this study is to analyze current trends and mortality trends in rural areas in Russia, as well as health problems in rural areas, and make appropriate recommendations and adjustments. Materials and methods. At all stages of the study, analytical materials from official statistics (Rosstat and the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation), data from modern literature sources and regulatory documents were used; processing of statistical data was carried out based on modern software packages SPSS, Excel‑2007. Research methods – study and generalization of experience, statistical, bibliographic. Results. Analysis of the accumulated data showed trends in the mortality of the rural population; specific areas and features inherent in rural healthcare and requiring special attention considering new challenges in the system were clearly shown and systematized. Conclusions. The data obtained can be applied when adjusting and recommendations to existing regional programs operating within the framework of preserving and strengthening the health of the rural population in the territory.
A strategy for effective administrative control of antimicrobial therapy in the surgical intensive care unit: a retrospective pilot study.
Authors:   Pirogov City Clinical Hospital № 1, Khayrullin I. I. , Protsenko D. N. ,   Moscow’s Multidisciplinary Clincal Center «Kommunarka», Magomedov M. A. ,   Pirogov City Clinical Hospital № 1, Shifman E. M. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University (RNRMU), Tyurin I. N. ,   Pirogov City Clinical Hospital № 1, Ostapchenko D. A. ,   Pirogov City Clinical Hospital № 1, Grishina L. A. ,   Pirogov City Clinical Hospital № 1, Kolerova I. V. ,   Pirogov City Clinical Hospital № 1, Turkova N. N. ,   Pirogov City Clinical Hospital № 1, Masolitin S. V. ,   Pirogov City Clinical Hospital № 1
Published: April 2024

Objective: To evaluate a strategy for effective administrative control of targeted antimicrobial therapy in surgical intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Materials and methods. The study included 3522 patients who were treated in ICU No. 1 in the period 2022 to 2023. The first group (control), treatment period 2022, included 1764 patients. The second group (research), treatment period 2023, included 1758 patients. In both groups, the use of antimicrobial drugs (AMP) was carried out in accordance with the antibacterial therapy control strategy (ASCT); in group 2, systemic administrative control was additionally carried out in the form of the use of the “Effective Hospital” program and a developed analytical system with monitoring the financial stability of the unit, aimed at daily monitoring of operating activities. A comparative analysis of the frequency of use of various classes of antimicrobial agents, the incidence of infectious complications, mortality rates and financial costs between groups was performed. Results. There was a significant decrease in the consumption of AMPs of the carbapenem group from 8194 vials in 2022 to 6577 vials in 2023, which was a decrease of 19.7%; a decrease in the consumption of tetracycline group AMPs in 2023 compared to 2022, from 2338 bottles to 1581 bottles, which amounted to 32.4%; reduction in the consumption of vancomycin and linezolid in 2023 compared to 2022 from 562 vials to 313 vials, which amounted to 44.3%. There was a decrease in the incidence of VAP from 59.3 (57.6; 62.9) in 2022 to 48.1 (38.65; 61.9) units in 2023, which amounted to 10.8% (p = 0.053). The increase in the frequency of deaths from 10.9% (9.1; 12.4) in 2022 to 11.5% (10.5; 12.7) in 2023 did not have significant differences (p = 0.67). The total expenditure on AMP in 2023 significantly decreased by 22.3%, which allowed saving 1,477,205.53 rubles (p = 0.012). Conclusion. The use of a daily strategy of administrative control of operational activities and the use of antimicrobial therapy in the ICU can reduce the costs of expensive antimicrobial agents, reduce the incidence of nosocomial infectious and inflammatory complications without changing overall mortality.
Ways to increase engagement of medical organization employees in online surveys.
Authors:   Smolensk State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Tikhonova N. K. , Semchenkov A. V. ,   Blagopoluchiye Rehabilitation centre
Published: April 2024

Sociological research conducted among the personnel of a medical organization is one of the effective tools for making effective management decisions. The purpose of the study was to develop recommendations for managers of medical organizations to increase staff involvement in online surveys. Materials and methods. A repeated comparative study of the activity of participation in online surveys of medical staff of the clinic was planned and conducted. An analysis of the response rate to the survey was carried out before and after improving the survey methodology. Methods of open online questioning, qualitative analysis, protection of personal data of respondents, survey graphics, QR codes, and dashboard information were used. Results. Increasing the anonymity of the survey, introducing survey schedules, dynamic QR codes, and informing about the progress of the survey using dashboards reduced the time spent on online surveys and increased employee involvement in the survey from 54,1% to 94,6%. Findings. Increasing staff involvement in an interactive survey is one of the necessary quality tools and provides clinic management with information on improving teamwork. The proposed algorithm for conducting an online survey can be used as a tool for HR management of a medical organization to increase staff involvement in interactive surveys.
Building a New Generation of Public Health Leaders Forged in a Public Health Crisis
Authors: Helm-Murtagh Susan C. , Erwin Paul C.
Published: April 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic presented wide-ranging leadership challenges to public health leaders and public health organizations. In its wake, as the necessity of reconstructing public health and modernizing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is considered, we reviewed reports from the Commonwealth Fund and the CDC and other leadership-focused literature to identify common themes for a new generation of public health leaders.

We posit that this new generation must have the ability to communicate (build and maintain trust and accountability); forge, facilitate, and promote partnerships; connect public health and health care systems; build information systems that provide accessible, actionable data; engage in systems and strategic thinking and action; center equity and inclusivity and understand structural racism as a fundamental driver and creator of health inequities; and achieve and maintain resilience and self-care.

For each of the 7 abilities, we offer a description, assess what COVID-19 taught us about the necessity of the ability for public health leaders, and offer suggestions for developing (or honing) one’s skill set, mindset, and tool set in this regard. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(6):626–632. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307633 )
Validation of MEISR(Measure of Engagement, Independence, and Social Relationships) for Korean Infants and Toddlers
Authors:   The Society for Cognitive Enhancement and Intervention, Kim Juhyun , Park Hyewon
Published: April 2024

Objective: The Measure of Engagement, Independence, and Social Relationships (MEISR) is a tool designed to assess the engagement, independence, and social interactions of infants and toddlers during daily activities. This study aimed to develop Korean version of MEISR (K-MEISR) and evaluate its reliability and validity. Methods: Korean version of MEISR was developed through the translation and modification of items of the MEISR following a pilot study (N = 44). Two studies were conducted with parents of infants and toddlers up to 36 months old using online (N = 124) and offline (N = 134) versions. Data were analyzed using SPSS 27.0 and AMOS 25.0. Item difficulty and discrimination, as well as passing rates were calculated; and internal consistency, correlations among the routine and total scales, factor analyses, and correlations with K-DST ratings were analyzed to determine the reliability and validity of K-MEISR. Results: Analyses of item difficulty and passing rates identified characteristics of items for determining the item order for K-MEISR. High correlations between the total of each routine and the total of all items were found in both the online (r = .896~.992) and the offline (r = .874~.988) versions. Reliabilities of all total scale items were high for both the online (r = .998) and the offline (r = .997) versions. Reliabilities of routine items were also high, ranging from .913 to .985 for the online and .914 to .985 for the offline version. Correlations between K-DST and K-MEISR were high for both the online (r = .981) and offline (r = .959), showing high concurrent validity. Conclusions: The items of the total scale, and routines and functional domains showed high internal consistency and high correlations with K-DST, revealing the concurrent validity of K-MEISR. Recommendations for further research and clinical use of the assessment tool are discussed.
Mediating Effects of Social Networking Sites Self-Expression and Fear of Missing Out in the Relationship Between Friendship Contingent Self-Esteem and Social Networking Sites Addiction Tendency of Adolescents
Authors:   The Society for Cognitive Enhancement and Intervention, Seo Ye-jin , Kim Hee-hwa
Published: April 2024

Objective: The study examined the mediating and double mediating effects of fear of missing out and social networking sites (SNS) self-expression (positive self-expression and honest self-expression) on the relationship between adolescents’ friendship contingent self-esteem and SNS addiction tendency.
Methods: The participants in this study were a total of 413 students (207 male and 206 female) in the first to third years of middle school. Each variable was self-reported using instruments measuring friendship contingent self-esteem, fear of missing out, SNS self-expression, and SNS addiction tendency. For data analysis, frequency analysis, Frequency, Cronbach’s α reliability, and Pearson correlation analyses were performed using the SPSS Statistics 27.0 program, and the mediating effect and the double mediating effect were confirmed using the PROCESS macro model 6 of the SPSS PROCESS macro 4.2 program. Results: Adolescents’ SNS addiction tendencies were positively correlated with friendship contingent self-esteem, fear of missing out and positive self-expression, and honest self-expression. Second, in the relationship between adolescents’ friendship contingent self-esteem and SNS addiction tendency, mediating and double mediating effects of fear of missing out and positive self-expression were found. Third, in the relationship between friendship contingent self-esteem and SNS addiction tendencies, the mediating effect of honest self-expression and the double mediating effect of fear of missing out and honest self-expression were not significant.
Conclusions: This study emphasizes that adolescents with SNS addiction tendencies due to high friendship contingent self-esteem should be encouraged to reduce their fear of missing out and positive self-expression.
The Relationship between the Mother’s Psychological Control and Children’s Anger Expression Modes: The Mediating Effect of Basic Psychological Need Satisfaction and Frustration
Authors:   The Society for Cognitive Enhancement and Intervention, Back Eun-ju , Lee Jin-suk
Published: April 2024

Objective: This study examined the dual mediating effect of satisfaction and frustration of basic psychological need in the relationship between the mother’s psychological control and the children’s anger expression modes.
Methods: The subjects of the study were 352 fourth to sixth grade children. For the collected data, Pearson correlation analysis and Process macro (Model 4) mediation analysis of the SPSS program 23.0 were performed.
Results: First all major variables showed significant correlations with each other. Second, The mother’s psychological control indirectly affected the children’s anger–out and anger-in through the frustration of the child’s basic psychological need. On the other hand, it was confirmed that the mother’s psychological control indirectly affects children’s anger control through the children’s basic psychological need satisfaction.
Conclusions: It is meaningful in that it revealed different paths of need satisfaction and need frustration in the relationship between mother’s psychological control and anger expression.
Conducting marine genetic research for whom? Mapping knowledge flows from science to patents
Authors: Dunshirn Paul , Zhvikoplias Erik
Published: April 2024

Marine genetic resources hold great value for biotechnological innovation and sustainability-oriented research. However, studies indicate that intellectual property rights pertaining to these resources are concentrated in a handful of companies and countries, triggering contentious international debates. This paper highlights an overlooked dimension: scientists and their affiliated countries as central actors in the provision of marine genetic research. We introduce a dataset of 23,417 marine genetic studies and trace patent references to these studies. Our analysis reveals that molecular biological research, oftentimes on bacterial species, attracts the most patenting interest. Some countries own relatively more patents than they provide in science, with the U.S. benefiting the most from available research. Science by G77 researchers has seen limited uptake in patents. These findings aim to inform international biodiversity regimes, such as the UN treaty on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), on how to more equitably distribute marine genetic resources’ economic, socio-cultural, and ecological benefits.
The association of fructose and fiber consumption and physical activity with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in children and adolescents: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Akhgarjand Camellia , Entezarian Mahdieh , Samavat Simin , Tavakoli Aryan , Anoushirvani Aliarash , Asghari Golaleh , Yusbashian Emad , Dehghan Pooneh , mirmiran Parvin , Imani Hossein
Published: April 2024

Background:Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is emerging as the most common liver disease in overweight and obese children. Studies have shown no cure for NAFLD, but some researchers have found that dietary and lifestyle changes can improve this condition. Some evidence focuses on the role of carbohydrates especially fructose in NAFLD. Consuming too much fructose leads to de-novo lipogenesis, which causes insulin resistance, especially in overweight and obese people. A
Methods:A total number of participants aged 6 to 13 years were included in this cross-sectional study from 2021 to 2022 and were divided into two groups NAFLD and a control. We assessed dietary intakes using a 147-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ).
Results:The mean age of individuals was 9.2±1.7 and 35% had NAFLD. After multivariable adjustment based on gender, maturity status, body mass index z-score, and total daily energy intake from the diet (OR: 1.0, 95%, CI: 0.35-1.29, P=0.221), and multivariable adjustment based on the gender, maturity status, z-score of body mass index and total daily energy intake from diet, leisure time sports activity, and triglyceride (OR: 0.67, 95%, CI: 0.35-1.29, P=0.221), there was no significant differences between fructose consumption and NAFLD. A significant relation was indicated between legume fiber (P=0.03) and nut fiber (P=0.04) with NAFLD risk.
Conclusion: we could not indicate a significant association between fructose intake and NAFLD, however, due to the significant association between insulin resistance and dyslipidemia with NAFLD low intake of fructose-content foods is highly recommended in the young population.
TCEAL5 cooperates with the NuRD complex to epigenetically silence mesenchymal genes in glioma
Authors: Zhou Hanchi , Li Xue , Zhang Yirao , Zhang Qian , Zhou Xinwei , Zhang Daoyong
Published: April 2024

The TCEAL5 gene, a member of the TCEAL family, is linked to various biological processes but remains understudied in cancer research. This study analyzed TCEAL5 expression in glioma and investigated its biological functions through cell assays and molecular analyses. Our findings revealed a significant reduction in TCEAL5 expression in glioma tissues, with lower expression levels correlating with higher histologic grades and poorer prognosis. Further experimental investigations demonstrated that ectopic overexpression of TCEAL5 in glioma cell lines significantly inhibited cell migration and invasion. Mechanistic studies indicated that TCEAL5 exerts its inhibitory effects on EMT by directly binding to the promoters of mesenchymal genes. Additionally, TCEAL5 was found to interact with the NuRD complex, leading to transcriptional repression of mesenchymal genes via epigenetic modulation. These findings highlight the multifaceted role of TCEAL5 as a tumor suppressor in glioma, suggesting its potential as a prognostic biomarker and a target for therapeutic intervention. Our study not only adds to the understanding of TCEAL5's biological functions but also opens new avenues for research into its application in cancer therapy.
Incidence and risk factors of de novo Hepatitis E virus infection after receiving liver transplantation
Authors: He Ping , Li Jialei , Wang Chen , Zhang Jiayue , Jiang Yiyun , Liu Hongyang , Gao Yinjie , Wang YiJin
Published: April 2024

Background/Aims:
Organ transplant recipients with hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection bears high risk to develop chronic hepatitis, which is generally associated with immunosuppressive therapies. This study aimed to identify the incidence and predictors of de novo HEV infection in patients after receiving transplantation.
Methods
We performed a large retrospective study to investigate the prevalence of anti-HEV at baseline, incidence of de novo HEV infection after transplantation, and the risk factors of HEV infection among patients with liver transplant in China. A total of 407 liver transplant recipients were examined for the presence of anti-HEV immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgM antibodies, and HEV RNA in serum. Basal indexes in individuals with evidence of post-transplant HEV infection were compared with those without evidence of that, and risk factors associated with HEV infection were assessed.
Results
The prevalence of anti-HEV at pre-transplant in liver transplant recipients was 25.8% (105/407). Serum-negative conversion occurred in 34 (32.38%) of 105 liver transplant patients. Sixty-five out of 302 patients had de novo HEV infection after transplantation, with a cumulative incidence of 42.74% during follow-up. After transplantation, HEV infection was associated with liver failure (P = 0.012), hypoproteinemia (P = 0.030) and higher level of r-glutamyl transferase (GGT) (P = 0.022) before transplantation. Graft rejection (OR 0.075; P = 0.045) was negatively associated with serum-negative conversion in patients who had positive anti-HEV antibody before transplantation.
Conclusions
The incidence of de novo HEV infection after transplantation were higher in China. Liver failure, hypoproteinemia, and GGT elevation may be associated with HEV infection after liver transplantation. This study suggests that prevention and control of HEV infection after liver transplantation should be paid attention in patients bearing these risk factors.
The Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on Cognitive Flexibility in Children with Specific Learning Disorders
Authors: Hakimirad Elham , mojaver shirin , kabirmokhtar negin , amiabadi zahra
Published: April 2024

Children with specific learning disabilities exhibit lower cognitive flexibility compared to typically developing children. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (TDCS) on Cognitive Flexibility of children with learning disabilities in Tehran. A semi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and control group study was conducted. The study population consisted of all students with Specific Learning Disorders in Tehran during the academic year 2022-2023. A total of 30 students, aged from 7 to 12, were selected as the sample group using the purposeful sampling method. We randomly divided the participants into two control and experimental groups (n = 15 each). The research tool was the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test. The experimental group underwent a stimulation protocol involving a weak direct current. The protocol consisted of 10 sessions, with the initial five sessions utilizing a low intensity of 1mA, followed by a slight increase to 1.5mA for the remaining five sessions. The anode electrode, measuring 5 x 5 cm, was inserted in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) at the F3 location, while the cathode electrode, also measuring 5 x 5 cm, was placed on the right ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VMPFC) at the Fp2 location. Each session lasted for 20 minutes. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of multivariate covariance analysis (MANCOVA) and independent t-tests. The results showed that TDCS has been effective in Cognitive Flexibility.
Bacterial community response in Juye mining area at the early stage of cracks
Authors: Guo Chunying , Lu Shougan , Wang Hui , Xiao Xin , Qian Ruoxi , Xiao Yu
Published: April 2024

Due to the sensitivity of microorganisms to the environment, microorganisms with strong tolerance in the early stage of coal mining collapse will gradually move to a dominant position, and plants can improve soil quality and provide important carbon sources for microorganisms. The soil characteristics and the response of soil bacteria in the early cracks during 15 ~ 20 days of mining were studied. Compared with non-cracked farmland group (C), soil bulk density in cracked farmland group (F) increased significantly in the early stage of coal mining,while porosity was on the contrary (p < 0.05). The mineral elements (except Ca and Na) in F were significantly lower than those in cracked abandoned land group (A).The abundance of the microbial community might be more closely related to crop planting, while the evenness of the microbial community was more affected by cracks. Coal mining cracks make Proteobacteria enrich significantly, while crop planting is conducive to the enrichment of RB41 and Pir4_lineage. Soil moisture content and AN were significantly negatively correlated with the relative abundance, while pH was significantly positively correlated with it. Planctomycetes and Bacteroidetes, which were significantly enriched in the non-crack area, were significantly positively correlated with AP, while Thaumarchaeot was significantly positively correlated with Eh. The study provided a basis for improving the low ecological environment damage mining technology.
Sacroiliac CT findings in patients with skin psoriasis: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Leriche Thomas , Fakih Olivier , Aubin François , Chouk Mickaël , Prati Clément , Wendling Daniel , Verhoeven Frank
Published: April 2024

Objectives
To describe CT characteristics of sacro-iliac joints (SIJs) in patients with psoriasis (PsO) without rheumatological manifestations, and compare them with controls of the same age and sex.
Methods
A monocentric, retrospective, observational study was conducted using the medical records of the rheumatology and dermatology departments of the Tertiary medical center in France . We included patients with psoriasis, without rheumatological manifestations, who realized CT scan including the SIJs. Each patient was matched with an aged and sex-matched control who had performed CT scan for rheumatological reason. CT-scan slices were interpreted by two independent rheumatologists, a resident and an expert, using a modifyed score. Joint space narrowing (JSN), erosions, sclerosis, intra-articular gas were scored.
Results
60 patients and 57controls were included. Global SIJs score was higher in the PsO group (6,63 ± 10,7) than in the control group (2,84 ± 4,87). Erosion and sclerosis did not differ between groups, however joint space narrowing score was higher in the PsO group (versus 4.15 (±10.8) versus 0.873 (±4.62) p =0.035). There were no correlations between the global score and the disease duration and the severity of the psoriasis. The number of gestation, active smoking, alcohol intake and physical work had no impact on the global score.
Conclusion
The CT characteristics of SIJ from patients with PsO were different to those of age and sex-matched controls essentially secondary to joint space narrowing.
Estimating Consumption Function for Central Asian countries: New Insights
Authors: Khan Muhammad Adnan , Khan Muhammad Azam , Tariq Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Consumption is a significant part of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) that is influenced by income as argued by Keynes and Friedman. This paper empirically estimates the consumption function for four Central Asian economies (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan) from 1993 to 2020. The empirical results reveal that income has a significant positive effect on consumption in the short and long run. The short-run results support the Keynesian Absolute Income Hypothesis, whereas, the long-run results support Milton Friedman’s Permanent Income Hypothesis. However, the coefficient value is greater than 1 in the case of Uzbekistan which is in contradiction with the consumption function, as Keynes argued that the marginal propensity to consume (MPC) value lies between 0 and 1 (0 < MPC > 1). The key finding of the study is, that in the case of Central Asian countries, the marginal propensity of consumption does not lie in the range proposed by Keynes and does not support the Absolute Income Hypothesis. In this regard, policies are required to increase savings and investment and keep consumption expenditures at optimal levels. These policy measures will contribute more effectively to boosting the economic growth of these economies.
Formation of the UV-C protection shield in cyanobacterium Nostoc; investigating the photoprotective compounds, expression of biosynthesis genes and molecular interactions
Authors: Irankhahi Pardis , Riahi Hossein , Hassani Seyedeh batool , Eskafi Maryam , Irani Maryam Azimzadeh , Shariatmadari Zeinab
Published: April 2024

Cyanobacteria have special defense mechanisms to protect themselves against ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This study combines experimental and computational methods to identify the role of protective strategies in Nostoc species against UV-C radiation. To achieve this goal, various species of the genus Nostoc from diverse natural habitats in Iran were exposed to artificial UV-C radiation. The results indicated that UV-C treatment significantly reduced the photosynthetic pigments while simultaneously increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Notably, N. sphaericum ISB97 and Nostoc sp. ISB99, the brown Nostoc species isolated from habitats with high solar radiations, exhibited greater resistance compared to the green-colored species. Additionally, an increase in scytonemin content occurred with a high expression of key genes associated with its synthesis (scyF and scyD) during the later stages of UV-C exposure in these species. The molecular docking of scytonemin with lipopolysaccharides of the cyanobacteria that mainly cover the extracellular matrix, revealed the top/side positioning of scytonemin on the glycans of these lipopolysaccharides to form a UV protective shield. These findings pave the way for exploring the molecular effects of scytonemin in forming the UV protection shield in cyanobacteria, an aspect that has been ambiguous until now.
Allometric equations and height-diameter models for estimating above-and below-ground biomass of Colophospermum mopane J.Léonard. in Mozambique
Authors: Lisboa Sá Nogueira , Macôo Severino , Sitoe Almeida
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to develop species-specific biomass allometric equations (BAE) for the estimation of above-ground biomass (AGB) and below-ground biomass (BGB) of Colophospermum mopane, J.Léonard species in Mozambique and to evaluate the feasibility of including total height estimated by the height-diameter (H-D) model in the equations to improve the accuracy of biomass estimation. We applied a destructive method and felled 120 trees of C. mopane in Mabalane and Tambara districts. We measured breast height diameter, total height (H), and dry weight of each component (roots, stem, branches, and leaves). We fitted three BAE and fifteen H-D models using OLS and non-linear least squares regression. A validation procedure checked all models for applicability. We conducted a forest inventory using 78 temporary clusters, each consisting of four plots measuring 100 m x 20 m, to estimate the average AGB and BGB of C. mopane using the best-fitting BAE and H-D model. We also compared the best BAE of C. mopane with existing, locally developed species-specific BAEs. The study found that the model, including the interaction of D2 and H, performed better than the model with separate D and H variables. However, models including D and H performed similarly to models with D alone. The Power model and HossfeldIV performed best among the models with 2 and 3 parameters, respectively. Integrating the H-D model into the BAE for AGB and estimation can improve the efficiency and reliability of biomass estimation and stand volume by forest inventory data. Overall, this research is timely as there is an urgent need to improve the assessment of biomass and carbon emissions in mopane woodland (MW) in southern Africa, given their spatial extent, and to support climate goals and the sustainable management of these ecosystems.
Measuring the Dunkelflaute: How (not) to analyze variable renewable energy shortage
Authors: Kittel Martin , Schill Wolf-Peter
Published: April 2024

As variable renewable energy sources increasingly gain importance in global energy systems, there is a growing interest in understanding periods of variable renewable energy shortage (''Dunkelflauten''). Defining, quantifying, and comparing such shortage events across different renewable generation technologies and locations presents a surprisingly intricate challenge. Various approaches exist in different bodies of literature, such as hydrology, wind and solar energy analysis, or energy system modeling. The subject of interest in previous analyses ranges from single technologies in specific locations to diverse technology portfolios across multiple regions, focusing either on supply from variable renewables or its mismatch with electricity demand. We provide an overview of methods for quantifying variable renewable energy shortage. We explain and critically discuss the merits and challenges of different approaches for defining and identifying shortage events and propose further methodological improvements for more accurate shortage determination. Additionally, we elaborate on comparability requirements for multi-technological and multi-regional energy shortage analysis. In doing so, we aim to contribute to unifying disparate methodologies, harmonizing terminologies, and providing guidance for future research.
Unprecedented TPE-Embedded Butterfly Bis-Crown Ether with Controllable Conformation and Supramolecular Chiroptical Property
Authors: Hu Xiao-Yu , Tian Xueqi , Zuo Minzan , Shen Yuhong , Mao Ni , Wang Kaiya , Sheng Yanshan , Velmurugan Krishnasamy , Jiao Jianmin
Published: April 2024

Understanding how subtle structural differences between macrocyclic conformational isomers impact their properties and separation has garnered increasing attention in the field of supramolecular synthetic chemistry. In this work, a series of tetraphenylene (TPE)-embedded butterfly bis-crown ether macrocycles (BCE[n], n = 4-7), comprising two crown ether side rings and a TPE core, were synthesized through intramolecular McMurry coupling. Unexpectedly, the presence of flexible oligoethylene chains with varying lengths were found to influence molecular conformation via intramolecular interactions, resulting in the formation of two stabilized conformers with specific semi-rigid symmetric/asymmetric structures (sym-BCE[n] and asym-BCE[n], n = 5, 6). Moreover, it is noteworthy that neither symmetric nor asymmetric conformers are present in the more rigid BCE[4] or the more flexible BCE[7]. Interestingly, these conformers display distinct fluorescence properties and host-guest binding abilities, and only sym-BCE[5] can serve as a host for chiral polymer binding, resulting in the formation of chiral supramolecular assemblies through host-guest interaction induced chirality. Moreover, both circular dichroism (CD) and circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) signals of the obtained assemblies could be switched off by the addition of sodium ion (Na+), suggesting potential applications in the field of dynamic chiral materials.
Large-scale serial replacement of invasive tench (Tinca tinca) by invasive carp (Cyprinus carpio) in the Murray-Darling River system, Australia
Authors: Caley Peter , Hill Matt P , Stuart Ivor , Duncan Richard P , Forsyth David M
Published: April 2024

Ecosystems worldwide are increasingly being invaded by multiple species, and the rate of biological invasion is accelerating, leading to more interactions among invasive species. One such interaction that has received little attention is the phenomenon of ‘serial replacement’ or ‘over-invasion’, where an established invasive species is supplanted by a second invasive species. Understanding this interaction is important as controlling the second species could inadvertently lead to an increase in the abundance of the first species. We used a hierarchical state-space model to analyse changes in annual abundances (commercial catch-per-unit-effort) of two invasive fish species, the tench (Tinca tinca) and the common carp (Cyprinus carpio), in the Murray-Darling River system (MDRS), Australia between 1954–2002. Tench were present at low abundances until the mid-1970s, after which they declined to the point of no commercial catch post-1989. The rapid decline in tench coincided with a significant increase in carp abundance, suggesting that carp may have driven the tench decline, consistent with findings from European studies that show substantial dietary overlap between these species and the disappearance of tench from ponds with intensive carp farming. While carp were present in the MDRS for the duration of the study, the rapid increase in carp abundance in the early 1970s coincided with the introduction of a specific genetic lineage – the “Boolarra strain” of carp. Our analysis of long-term changes in invasive fish species abundances provides compelling evidence of serial replacement of long-established tench by invading common carp triggered by the introduction of a novel carp strain.
Comparison of orbital structures between age-related distance esotropia and acute acquired concomitant esotropia using magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Kim Jin Hee , Shin Hyun Jin
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to compare orbital Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) findings of age-related distance esotropia (ARDE) against age-matched healthy controls and acute acquired concomitant esotropia (AACE) patients. In this retrospective study, we analyzed the coronal MRI images of 9 ARDE patients, 8 AACE patients, 13 elderly controls, and 12 young controls. We measured the (1) displacement angles of the lateral rectus (LR) and medial rectus (MR), (2) LR tilting angle, (3) ratio of the MR to LR cross-sectional area, and (4) superior rectus downward displacement ratio (SDR). ARDE patients showed significant LR sagging compared to elderly controls by 5.1° (p = 0.048), with no significant LR displacement in AACE versus young controls. ARDE patients also had marked LR tilting compared to all groups. Additionally, the ARDE and AACE groups exhibited a greater MR/LR area ratio than their controls by 26% (p = 0.002) and 27% (p = 0.001), indicating a horizontal rectus muscle imbalance. Additionally, SDR values were higher in ARDE and elderly controls, suggesting a proximity of superior rectus muscle to the globe as an age-related alteration. The findings demonstrate that ARDE is characterized by unique orbital changes, particularly in the LR, distinguishing it from AACE. The observed increase in the MR/LR area ratio among the esotropia groups points to a horizontal rectus imbalance. These MRI-based insights advance our understanding of the distinct pathophysiological mechanisms underlying these conditions.
Clinical outcome analysis of two approaches to trypan blue dyeing for DMEK
Authors: Donner Ruth , Aschauer Julia , Schmidinger Gerald
Published: April 2024

Background: To evaluate the clinical implications of the different trypan blue dyeing techniques used during liquid bubble (LBT) and manual peel (MPT) DMEK lenticule preparation techniques.
Methods: This study retrospectively compared the degree to which endothelial cells are preserved using selective Descemet Membrane (DM) staining (LBT) versus bath-staining (MPT) when performed by a single surgeon, sourced from a single eye bank.
Results: Endothelial cell density measured after the 3-month follow-up was 1805 and 1916 cells/mm2 respectively, differing significantly (p= 0.012). A double-scroll graft formation was found and maintained until implantation in 94% of preparations with bath staining and 50% of preparations using selective DM staining. Preoperative visual acuity was comparable between preparation techniques at 0.4 logMAR as well as postoperatively, at an average of 0.1 logMAR.
Conclusions: Reducing chemical stress on the endothelium by avoiding any contact with trypan blue allows for a significantly higher degree of cell preservation. However, achieving the often-desired double-scroll graft formation was possible less frequently. It remains unclear which factors define the differences graft scrolling behavior observed between LBT and MPT.
Effects of different irrigation patterns on paddy field environment and rice growth in non-water-retaining areas
Authors: Siyu Wang , Xuemei Sun , Mo Chen
Published: April 2024

In order to find the optimal irrigation mode to balance the growth and development of rice and water-saving irrigation in paddy fields in non-water-retaining areas, the non-water-retaining areas were selected in this experiment. Three water-saving irrigation modes were set up: shallow irrigation when there was no aquifer on the field(QS), shallow irrigation when the soil moisture content reached the lower limit(QSG), and deep irrigation when the soil moisture content reached the lower limit(SSG). The spearman correlation coefficient method was used to analyze the influence of water temperature on soil temperature in different soil layers, and the changes of nitrate nitrogen and ammonium nitrogen were monitored by ultraviolet spectrophotometry, and the growth and development of rice at different growth stages were observed. The results showed that the temperature of paddy field showed better heat transfer under shallow irrigation with moderate water control, nitrogen loss was reduced during shallow irrigation, and rice growth and development depended on irrigation frequency. Therefore, the irrigation mode of 'frequent irrigation and less irrigation' is recommended for planting rice without water retention. Compared with QSG and SSG, the growth rate of plant height in QS mode was increased by 0.46 cm/d and 0.32 cm/d compared with QSG and SSG mode, respectively, the number of tillers increased by 0.27 and 0.20 plants/(hole·d) in the middle and late tillering stages,and yield increased by 45.61% and 40.53%. In the key growth period of rice, the irrigation frequency should be increased to reach the lower limit of irrigation in time, so as to meet the water demand of rice, promote the growth and development of rice, and promote the growth and yield of rice under the joint action of water, heat and fertilizer.
WITHDRAWN: Evaluation of the relationship between earthquake-induced post-traumatic stress disorder and tooth wear
Authors: Öcal Fikri , Talmaç Ayşe Gül Öner , Zayman Esra Porgalı , Şimşek Enis
Published: April 2024

Background: This study aimed to was to evaluate the effects of earthquake-induced post traumatic stress disorder on tooth wear and oral hygiene of individuals.
Method: The study was conducted in a single centre and included 200 patients aged 18-70 years. The gender and age profile of the study participants was balanced. Voluntary consent forms were obtained from the participants and evaluated by a single operator. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder inventory (PTSD), Smith and Knight Tooth Wear Index and Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S) were applied during the evaluation. Mann Whitney U test and Pearson Chi-Square Test were used to evaluate the data obtained. Bonferroni Corrected Z Test was applied for multiple comparisons.
Results: In general, tooth wear was observed in all participants. The most common tooth wear surfaces were occlusal and cervical surfaces. The PTSD scores of the group which had experienced an earthquake were higher than those of the group which had not experienced an earthquake. There was no significant correlation between PTSD scores and tooth wear scores (p>0.05). The group with higher PTSD scores and those which had experienced an earthquake had significantly higher OHI-S scores (p<0.001). In the evaluation made according to gender, women's OHI-S scores were higher in the groups which had experienced an earthquake and in the groups who did not experience an earthquake. Individuals over 35 years of age had higher tooth wear scores and OHI-S scores than individuals under 35 years of age (p<0.001).
Conclusion: Psychological stress in patients with post-traumatic stress symptoms was not found to cause direct non-caries wear on tooth surfaces. The high OHI-S scores obtained from the earthquake survivor group indicate that post-earthquake stress and changed lifestyle reduce oral care.
Assessing the Causal Relationships Between Lipid Species and Stroke by Using Mendelian Randomization
Authors: WANG SHIQI , Zhang Hao , Hui Xiao-shan , Zhang Qi , Chen Rubing , Xie Fei
Published: April 2024

Circulating lipids and changes in lipid profiles have long been associated with the development of stroke but causal relationships remain unclear.In this study, we aimed to assess the causal relationships between lipid species and multiple stroke phenotypes to inform stroke prevention and treatment strategies. We conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis using data from genome-wide association studies. The primary method for causal assessment was inverse variance weighting (IVW), complemented by the MR-Egger, weighted median, and weighted mode methods. Sensitivity analyses, based on MR-Egger, MR-PRESSO, and Cochran’s Q statistics, were also applied to reinforce the results. In total, potential causality was observed for 133 pairs of lipids with stroke types(P < 0.05). After multiple testing correction (PFDR < 0.05), causal associations remained for 10 pairs of lipids, including specific sterol esters and phosphatidylcholines, with various stroke subtypes. These findings demonstrate the significant role of genetically determined lipid profiles in stroke pathogenesis. Further research is needed to establish whether these biomarkers can be used for stroke prevention or treatment.
MdABCI17 acts as a positive regulator to enhance apple resistance to Botryosphaeria dothidea
Authors: Xiang Ying , Zhao Yuwen , Wu Jingjing , Bai Xue , Wang Chukun , Ma Changning , Sun Quan , Hu Dagang
Published: April 2024

The ATP-binding cassette (ABC) superfamily is involved in numerous complex biological processes. However, the understanding of ABCs in plant pathogen defense, particularly against Botryosphaeria dothidea (B. dothidea), remains limited. In this study, we identified MdABCI17 that plays a positive role in apple resistance to B. dothidea. Overexpression of MdABCI17 significantly enhanced the resistance of apple calli and fruits to B. dothidea. Our findings revealed that the jasmonic acid (JA) content and the expression of genes associated with JA biosynthesis and signal transduction were higher in stable MdABCI17-overexpressing apple calli than that of wild-type after inoculation with B. dothidea. Similar results were obtained for apple fruits with transient overexpression of MdABCI17. Our research indicates that MdABCI17 enhances apple resistance to B. dothidea through the JA signaling pathway. We further determined that MdABCI17 plays a crucial role in the apple’s response to JA signaling. Moreover, exogenous methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatment significantly enhanced the effectiveness of MdABCI17 in boosting apple resistance to B. dothidea. We proposed a positive feedback regulatory loop between MdABCI17-mediated apple resistance to B. dothidea and JA signal. In summary, our study offers new insights into the role of ABC superfamily members in the control of plant disease resistance.
AI-based body composition score predicts survival after liver transplantation
Authors: Malamutmann Eugen , Vershinina Ksenia , Koitka Sven , Jaradat Derar , Schmitz Sophia M. , Haubold Johannes , Neumann Ulf , Nensa Felix , Oezcelik Arzu
Published: April 2024

Importance: Recent studies have shown that the body composition can significantly predict survival in patients with malignant diseases. This study aims to evaluate the importance of body composition for predicting short- and long-term survival after liver transplantation.
Design, Setting, and Participants: Body composition of all patients who underwent liver transplantation between January 2010 and December 2022 was assessed fully automated with artificial intelligence (AI) based technique. Clinical data such as demographic data and pre-, intra- and postoperative data were retrospectively reported. Uni- and multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify independent prognostic factors for survival.
Results: There were 346 patients with a mean age of 52.2 years (SD 10.8) and a mean BMI of 26.4 kg/m2 (SD 4.8) included in this study. The univariate and multivariate cox regression analyses identified the ratio of the subcutaneous fat volume to muscle volume (FSM-ratio) as well as the ratio of the visceral fat volume to muscle volume (FVM-ratio) as significant prognostic parameter for the overall survival.
Conclusion: Based on the results of our study we can conclude that the FVM-ratio has an essential impact on overall survival after liver transplantation. The fully automated AI based assessment is fast, accurate and investigator independent.