bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grazing decreases net ecosystem carbon exchange by decreasing shrub and semi‐shrub biomass in a desert steppe
Authors: Ju Xin , Wang Bingying , Wu Lianhai , Zhang Xiaojia , Wu Qian , Han Guodong
Published: June 2024

Livestock grazing can strongly determine how grasslands function and their role in the carbon cycle. However, how ecosystem carbon exchange responds to grazing and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We measured ecosystem carbon fluxes to explore the changes in carbon exchange and their driving mechanisms under different grazing intensities (CK, control; HG, heavy grazing; LG, light grazing; MG, moderate grazing) based on a 16‐year long‐term grazing experimental platform in a desert steppe. We found that grazing intensity influenced aboveground biomass during the peak growing season, primarily by decreasing shrubs and semi‐shrubs and perennial forbs. Furthermore, grazing decreased net ecosystem carbon exchange by decreasing aboveground biomass, especially the functional group of shrubs and semi‐shrubs. At the same time, we found that belowground biomass and soil ammonium nitrogen were the driving factors of soil respiration in grazed systems. Our study indicates that shrubs and semi‐shrubs are important factors in regulating ecosystem carbon exchange under grazing disturbance in the desert steppe, whereas belowground biomass and soil available nitrogen are important factors regulating soil respiration under grazing disturbance in the desert steppe; this results provide deeper insights for understanding how grazing moderates the relationships between soil nutrients, plant biomass, and ecosystem CO2 exchange, which provide a theoretical basis for further grazing management.
A niche‐based theory of island biogeography
Authors: Beaugrand Gregory , Kléparski Loick , Luczak Christophe , Goberville Eric , Kirby Richard R.
Published: June 2024

The equilibrium theory of island biogeography (ETIB) is a widely applied dynamic theory proposed in the 1960s to explain why islands have coherent differences in species richness. The development of the ETIB was temporarily challenged in the 1970s by the alternative static theory of ecological impoverishment (TEI). The TEI suggests that the number of species on an island is determined by its number of habitats or niches but, with no clear evidence relating species richness to the number of niches however, the TEI has been almost dismissed as a theory in favour of the original ETIB. Here, we show that the number of climatic niches on islands is an important predictor of the species richness of plants, herpetofauna and land birds. We therefore propose a model called the niche‐based theory of island biogeography (NTIB), based on the MacroEcological Theory on the Arrangement of Life (METAL), which successfully integrates the number of niches sensu Hutchinson into ETIB. To account for greater species turnover at the beginning of colonisation, we include higher initial extinction rates. When we test our NTIB for resident land birds in the Krakatau Islands, it reveals a good correspondence with observed species richness, immigration and extinction rates. Provided the environmental regime remains unchanged, we estimate that the current species richness at equilibrium is ~45 species (range between 38.39 and 61.51). Our NTIB provides better prediction because it counts for changes in species richness with latitude, which is not considered in any theory of island biogeography.
Distribution, abundance, population structures, and potential impacts of the invasive snail, Tarebia granifera in aquatic ecosystems of north‐eastern South Africa
Authors: Gerber Ruan , Pearson Johannes J. , Wepener Victor , Malherbe Wynand , de Necker Lizaan
Published: June 2024

Aquatic ecosystems globally have been invaded by molluscs. Tarebia granifera is a highly successful invader, often becoming the dominant aquatic invertebrate species in an invaded ecosystem. Resultingly, it has been suggested that T. granifera may have severe negative impacts on these invaded ecosystems. Limited information is available regarding the population structures and densities of T. granifera, particularly in invaded countries such as South Africa, and information on this could assist in developing management and control strategies for this invasive species. The present study aimed to assess the current distribution, densities, and population structures of T. granifera in invaded habitats on the Limpopo and Phongolo River systems in South Africa. This was accomplished by collecting aquatic molluscs from sites across these systems. Water quality parameters were measured at each site and water samples were collected for chemical nutrient analyses. The density of snails was determined for each site and the population size and structure as well as birth rate was calculated for T. granifera. Tarebia granifera was found to be the dominant molluscan species in habitats where it was present and all size classes from newborn to mature adults were found throughout at some of the highest densities globally. Worryingly, native molluscan species, were often absent or in much lower densities than reported in literature at sites where T. granifera was present, suggesting a negative effect on the native molluscan density and diversity. Contrary to most previous studies, there were no significant correlations between T. granifera and the selected water quality parameters. Higher densities and newborn recruitment of T. granifera were observed in the spring than in autumn, likely in response to shifts in environmental conditions. This study provides crucial insights into the population structure, densities, and impacts of T. granifera in invaded habitats, particularly for relatively newly invaded regions such as southern Africa.
Functional characteristics and habitat suitability of threatened birds in northeastern China
Authors: Li Jianwei , Jiang Haibo , Xie Mingjun , Song Chuantao , He Chunguang , Bian Hongfeng , Sheng Lianxi
Published: June 2024

Northeast China, rich in natural resources and diverse biodiversity, boasts a unique habitat for threatened bird species due to its remote location and perennial cold climate. An analysis assessed the adaptability of these species using data on their geographic distribution and functional traits collected through database queries. The results revealed that threatened bird species share similar functional traits and a stronger phylogenetic signal (Blomberg mean K = 0.39) compared to common species. The Biomod2 model analyzed potentially suitable ranges and environmental drivers under current and future climate scenarios, showing a pattern of larger suitable areas in southern regions and smaller suitable areas in the north. The most critically threatened species faced greater geographical constraints (0.989), with mean annual temperature being a key influence. Altitude and water system distribution were also key factors impacting the distribution of other threatened bird species. Simulated projections under different climate scenarios (RCP 45 and 85) indicated varying degrees of expansion in the suitable range for these species. This research sheds light on the functional traits and distribution of threatened bird species in Northeast China, providing a scientific foundation for future conservation and management efforts.
Invertebrate diversity in groundwater‐filled lava caves is influenced by both neutral‐ and niche‐based processes
Authors: Kristjánsson Bjarni K. , Combot Doriane , Reilent Anett , Phillips Joseph S. , Leblanc Camille A.‐L.
Published: June 2024

Understanding which factors shape and maintain biodiversity is essential to understand how ecosystems respond to crises. Biodiversity observed in ecological communities is a result of the interaction of various factors which can be classified as either neutral‐ or niche‐based. The importance of these processes has been debated, but many scientists believe that both processes are important. Here, we use unique ecosystems in groundwater‐filled lava caves near Lake Mývatn, to examine the importance of neutral‐ versus niche‐based factors for shaping invertebrate communities. We studied diversity in benthic and epibenthic invertebrate communities and related them to ecological variables. We hypothesized that if neutral processes are the main drivers of community structure we would not see any clear relationship between the structure of community within caves and ecological factors. If niche‐based processes are important we should see clear relationships between community structure and variation in ecological variables across caves. Both communities were species poor, with low densities of invertebrates, showing the resource limited and oligotrophic nature of these systems. Unusually for Icelandic freshwater ecosystems, the benthic communities were not dominated by Chironomidae (Diptera) larvae, but rather by crustaceans, mainly Cladocera. The epibenthic communities were not shaped by environmental variables, suggesting that they may have been structured primarily by neutral processes. The benthic communities were shaped by the availability of energy, and to some extent pH, suggesting that niche‐based processes were important drivers of community structure, although neutral processes may still be relevant. The results suggest that both processes are important for invertebrate communities in freshwater, and research should focus on understanding both of these processes. The ponds we studied are representative of a number of freshwater ecosystems that are extremely vulnerable for human disturbance, making it even more important to understand how their biodiversity is shaped and maintained.
Riding the wetland wave: Can ducks locate macroinvertebrate resources across the breeding season?
Authors: Setash Casey M. , Behney Adam C. , Gammonley James H. , Koons David N.
Published: June 2024

Food availability varies considerably over space and time in wetland systems, and consumers must be able to track those changes during energetically‐demanding points in the life cycle like breeding. Resource tracking has been studied frequently among herbivores, but receives less attention among consumers of macroinvertebrates. We evaluated the change in resource availability across habitat types and time and the simultaneous density of waterfowl consumers throughout their breeding season in a high‐elevation, flood‐irrigated system. We also assessed whether the macroinvertebrate resource density better predicted waterfowl density across habitats, compared to consistency (i.e., temporal evenness) of the invertebrate resource or taxonomic richness. Resource density varied marginally across wetland types but was highest in basin wetlands (i.e., ponds) and peaked early in the breeding season, whereas it remained relatively low and stable in other wetland habitats. Breeding duck density was positively related to resource density, more so than temporal resource stability, for all species. Resource density was negatively related to duckling density, however. These results have the potential to not only elucidate mechanisms of habitat selection among breeding ducks in flood‐irrigated landscapes but also suggest there is not a consequential trade‐off to selecting wetland sites based on energy density versus temporal resource stability and that good‐quality wetland sites provide both.
Adapting to change: Exploring the consequences of climate‐induced host plant shifts in two specialist Lepidoptera species
Authors: Bovay Baptiste , Descombes Patrice , Chittaro Yannick , Glauser Gaëtan , Nomoto Hanna , Rasmann Sergio
Published: June 2024

Asynchronous migration of insect herbivores and their host plants towards higher elevations following climate warming is expected to generate novel plant–insect interactions. While the disassociation of specialised interactions can challenge species' persistence, consequences for specialised low‐elevation insect herbivores encountering novel high‐elevation plants under climate change remain largely unknown. To explore the ability of two low‐elevation Lepidoptera species, Melitaea celadussa and Zygaena filipendulae, to undergo shifts from low‐ to high‐elevation host plants, we combined a translocation experiment performed at two elevations in the Swiss Alps with experiments conducted under controlled conditions. Specifically, we exposed M. celadussa and Z. filipendulae to current low‐ and congeneric high‐elevation host plants, to test how shifts in host plant use impact oviposition probability, number of eggs clutches laid, caterpillar feeding preference and growth, pupation rate and wing size. While our study shows that both M. celadussa and Z. filipendulae can oviposit and feed on novel high‐elevation host plants, we reveal strong preferences towards ovipositing and feeding on current low‐elevation host plants. In addition, shifts from current low‐ to novel high‐elevation host plants reduced pupation rates as well as wing size for M. celadussa, while caterpillar growth was unaffected by host plant identity for both species. Our study suggests that populations of M. celadussa and Z. filipendulae have the ability to undergo host plant shifts under climate change. However, these shifts may impact the ability of populations to respond to rapid climate change by altering developmental processes and morphology. Our study highlights the importance of considering altered biotic interactions when predicting consequences for natural populations facing novel abiotic and biotic environments.
Productivity of Spitsbergen fjords ecosystems in summer—Spatial changes of in situ primary production in Kongsfjorden and Hornsund in the period 1994–2019
Authors: Dragańska‐Deja Katarzyna , Stoń‐Egiert Joanna , Wiktor Józef , Ostrowska Mirosława
Published: June 2024

This comprehensive study examines primary production (PP) within the Spitsbergen fjords, Hornsund, and Kongsfjord, over a 25‐year period (1994–2019), across 45 stations and 348 incubation levels at various depths. PP and hydrological parameters were measured at 28 sampling stations in Kongsfjorden and 17 in Hornsund, with the locations of “Glacier,” “Inner,” and “Outer” zones defined to reflect the varying influence of glacial meltwater. Our study revealed spatial and temporal variability in PP, both at the surface and within the water column with very high depth resolution. The highest PP values were observed in the Glacier and Inner zones of Hornsund, particularly in the water layer up to 3 m depth, exceeding 20 mgC m−3 h−1. A notable decline in PP with increasing depth was observed in both fjords, with the Glacier zones displaying the highest productivity at the surface. The study also highlights the influence of glacial meltwater on surface water conditions, affecting the PP in the upper layers of both fjords. The observed gradient in the depth of maximum PP toward the mouth of the fjord varied between the two fjords, with Kongsjord displaying more dynamic variations. The spatial distribution of integrated primary production (Pi) suggested lower productivity in the glacial regions, likely due to light limitation caused by high concentrations of mineral particulate matter. The values of Pi were considerably higher in Hornsund, approximately twice as high overall, with specific emphasis on the Glacier and Inner zones where Pi values were about 6.5 and 2.5 times higher, respectively, when compared to those observed in Kongsfjord.
High temperatures reduce growth, infection, and transmission of a naturally occurring fungal plant pathogen
Authors: Chen Dalia V. , Slowinski Samuel P. , Kido Allyson K. , Bruns Emily L.
Published: June 2024

Climate change is rapidly altering the distribution of suitable habitats for many species as well as their pathogenic microbes. For many pathogens, including vector‐borne diseases of humans and agricultural pathogens, climate change is expected to increase transmission and lead to pathogen range expansions. However, if pathogens have a lower heat tolerance than their host, increased warming could generate so‐called thermal refugia for hosts. Predicting the outcomes of warming on disease transmission requires detailed knowledge of the thermal tolerances of both the host and the pathogen. Such thermal tolerance studies are generally lacking for fungal pathogens of wild plant populations, despite the fact that plants form the base of all terrestrial communities. Here, we quantified three aspects of the thermal tolerance (growth, infection, and propagule production) of the naturally occurring fungal pathogen Microbotryum lychnidis‐dioicae, which causes a sterilizing anther‐smut disease on the herbaceous plant Silene latifolia. We also quantified two aspects of host thermal tolerance: seedling survival and flowering rate. We found that temperatures >30°C reduced the ability of anther‐smut spores to germinate, grow, and conjugate in vitro. In addition, we found that high temperatures (30°C) during or shortly after the time of inoculation strongly reduced the likelihood of infection in seedlings. Finally, we found that high summer temperatures in the field temporarily cured infected plants, likely reducing transmission. Notably, high temperatures did not reduce survival or flowering of the host plants. Taken together, our results show that the fungus is considerably more sensitive to high temperatures than its host plant. A warming climate could therefore result in reduced disease spread or even local pathogen extirpation, leading to thermal refugia for the host.
Investigation on seismic performance degradation of hub large‐span roof structures considering corrosion and damage accumulation
Authors: Si Qi , Ding Yang , Zong Liang , Ma Jun
Published: June 2024

Hub transportation facilities are important lifeline projects in cities. Once they are damaged by earthquakes, their functional use will be lost, resulting in significant adverse social impacts. The roof structures of hub transportation facilities are usually made of large‐span steel structures. During service, they bear long‐term vibrations caused by multiple vibration sources such as high‐speed trains and wind loads, resulting in cumulative damage. In addition, the roof structures located in coastal areas may be exposed to a corrosive environment, which can lead to the degradation of structural performance. Currently, the relevant structural design standards do not consider the factor of structural performance variation over time. To address the above problems, this study adopts a time‐dependent constitutive model of steel considering corrosion and damage cumulative to investigate the seismic performance degradation of typical hub transportation facility roof structures. The research results show that the stiffness and seismic performance of 50‐year service hub large‐span roof structure have decreased compared to newly built structures, but the probability of serious damage is lower, indicating that the hub large‐span roof structures have good seismic performance.
Synergistic Enhancement of Supercapacitor Performance: Vanadium‐Substituted Phosphotungstic and Molybdic Acid Combined with Polypyrrole Using Pyridinium and Ammonium Ionic Containing Organic Cation Linkers with Improved Conductivity
Authors: Puniyanikkottil Muhammed Anees , Chandewar Pranay Rajendra , Shee Debaprasad , Mal Sib Sankar
Published: June 2024

High‐performance energy‐storage devices have emerged as a favored choice owing to their remarkable efficiency, sustainability, and environmental friendliness. Nowadays, polyoxometalate (POM)‐based supercapacitor (SC) electrode materials have gained much attention. Herein, a few new POMs and ionic liquid (IL) composites incorporated into conducting polymer as electrode materials for SC applications are reported. The H6[PV3Mo9O40]⋅34H2O (PV3Mo9) and H6[PV3W9O40].34H2O (PV3W9) POMs are treated with tetrabutylammonium chloride and 1‐butyl‐4‐methyl pyridinium chloride (BMP) and finally combined with polypyrrole (PPy) for the SC studies. An extensive array of analytical techniques is employed to delve into the interplay between the constituents within the composite materials, such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, powder X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, nuclear magnetic resonance (1H and 13C), Field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray stpectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller surface area. The combined application of these techniques enables us to understand the interaction dynamics within composite materials comprehensively. POM–ILs combination improves the solubility issues of POMs, and doping of PPy enhances the electrochemical performances of the materials. The PV3W9–BMP–PPy symmetric SC cell shows a specific capacitance of 294.79 F g−1 and an energy density of 28.89 Wh kg−1 at 1 A g−1 current density in 0.25 M H2SO4 medium followed by an excellent cycle life of 78.6% after 10,000 galvanostatic charge–discharge cycles. The fabricated SC device is performed to light up the bulbs of red, yellow, and green light emitting diodes for 50, 30, and 28 s, respectively.
Sustainable renewable energy supply chain with current technological adaptation: Macro energy progress policy in Iran
Authors: Fazlollahtabar Hamed
Published: June 2024

Climate change is a global challenge today that has been highly considered due to the wide impacts on different sectors of a society. That is why the use of renewable energy for countries and communities should be considered. In addition, the limitation of fossil fuels and the problems incurred by greenhouse gas emissions have made it increasingly important to make renewable energy more attractive. Sustainable energy means continuous supply of energy for today's needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Sustainable energy technologies include renewable energy sources such as hydroelectric power, solar energy, wind energy, geothermal energy, synthetic photo center and wave energy, as well as technologies designed to improve energy efficiency. Thus, this article discusses the development and performance of renewable supply chain energy in Iran. A strategic model is proposed and investigated to cover various aspects of sustainable renewable energy within a supply chain configuration integrated with machine learning method for quantification purpose. The novelty is on integrating machine learning and strategic plan to handle sustainability indicators within a renewable energy supply chain. The study also provides managerial insights to governments, researchers and stakeholders for the initiation of renewable energy use and suggestions for overcoming the barriers to its developments.
PAM: Predictive analytics and modules‐based computation offloading framework using greedy heuristics and 5G NR‐V2X
Authors: Khattak Muhammad Ilyas , Yuan Hui , Ahmad Ayaz , Ahmed Manzoor , Khan Ajmal , Inamullah
Published: June 2024

Recent advancements in distributed computing systems have shown promising prospects in enabling the effective usage of many next‐generation applications. These applications include a wide range of fields, such as healthcare, interactive gaming, video streaming, and other related technologies. Among such solutions are the evolving vehicular fog computing (VFC) frameworks that make use of IEEE and 3GPP protocols and use advanced optimization algorithms. However, these approaches often rely on outdated protocols or computationally intensive mathematical techniques for solving or representing their optimization models. Additionally, some of these frameworks have not thoroughly considered the type of application during their evaluation and validation phases. In response to these challenges, we have developed the “predictive analytics and modules” (PAM) framework, which operates on a time and event‐driven basis. It utilizes up‐to‐date 3GPP protocols to address the inherent unpredictability of VFC‐enabled distributed computing systems required in smart healthcare systems. Through a combination of a greedy heuristic approach and a distributed offloading architecture, PAM efficiently optimizes decisions related to task offloading and computation allocation. This is achieved through specialized algorithms that provide support to computationally weaker devices, all within a time frame of under 100 ms. To assess the performance of PAM in comparison to three benchmark methodologies, the evaluation pathways that we employed are average response time, probability density function, pareto‐analysis, algorithmic run time, and algorithmic complexity.
Co‐Substrate and Phosphate Buffer Enhanced Atrazine Degradation and Electricity Generation in a Bioelectrochemical System
Authors: Wang Hui , Du Ying , Wang XiangHua , Li Lei , Li Yu , Xu Zhiqiang , Li Xianning
Published: June 2024

Refractory organic pollutant removal can be enhanced by a bioelectrochemical system via the addition of electron donors/acceptors. In this study, a single‐chamber soil microbial fuel cell (MFC) was constructed, and electricity production and atrazine removal efficiency were assessed using different co‐substrates and phosphate buffer concentrations. The co‐substrates compensated for the lack of soil organic matter and provided a sufficient carbon source for microorganisms to facilitate MFC electricity generation and efficient atrazine removal. The maximum voltage (94 mV), power density (39.41 mW m−2), removal efficiency (85.30%), and degradation rate (1.68 mg kg−1 d−1) were highest in the soil MFCs with sodium acetate when compared with the other groups. Phosphate buffer significantly alleviated the dramatic soil pH change. The electricity generation and atrazine removal efficiency increased with the buffer concentration (0–0.10 g L−1). The maximum voltage (144 mV) and power density (89.35 mW m−2) were highest, total internal resistance (652 Ω) was lowest, and atrazine removal efficiency (90.95%) and degradation rate (1.54 mg kg−1 d−1) were determined in the soil MFCs with the phosphate buffer concentration of 0.10 g L−1, and. These results indicate that the co‐substrate and phosphate buffer can enhance the electricity generation of soil MFCs and atrazine removal.
Feedback Trading: The Intraday Case of Retail Derivatives
Authors: Baule Rainer , Frijns Bart , Schlie Sebastian
Published: June 2024

We analyze retail order flow in terms of intraday feedback trading patterns. Using a unique data set of exchange trades and high‐frequency quotes, we first provide evidence that retail investors actively and consciously respond to short‐term intraday returns in a negative feedback, contrarian fashion. Second, we show that some retail investors also feedback trade on tick‐by‐tick returns. Third, we find that on average this behavior leads to significant losses on the day they open a position. These losses are primarily due to the bid‐ask spread and to investors' timing inability, but not to market makers taking advantage of investors.
Enhancing the revelation of key genes and interaction networks in non‐small cell lung cancer with major depressive disorder: A bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Gui Huan , Chen Xulong , Nie Yingjie , Zhang Xiangyan
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Lung cancer is ranked as the second most prevalent form of cancer worldwide. Nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) represents the predominant histological subtype. Research suggests that one‐third of lung cancer patients also experiencing depression. Antidepressants play an indispensable role in the management of NSCLC. Despite significant advancements in treatment, lung cancer patients still face a high mortality rate. Major depressive disorder (MDD) and related antidepressants involved in treatment efficacy and prognosis of NSCLC. However, there has been a lack of screening and analysis regarding genes and networks associated with both NSCLC and MDD.

Methods

To investigate the correlation between MDD and NSCLC, our discovery and validation analysis included four datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus database from NSCLC or MDD. Differential gene expression (DEGs) analysis, GO and KEGG Pathway, and protein‐protein interaction network analyzes to identify hub genes, networks, and associated observations link between MDD and NSCLC.

Results

The analysis of two datasets yielded a total of 84 downregulated and 52 upregulated DEGs. Pathway enrichment analyzes indicated that co‐upregulated genes were enriched in the regulation of positive regulation of cellular development, collagen‐containing extracellular matrix (ECM), cytokine binding, and axon guidance. We identified 20 key genes, which were further analyzed using the MCODE plugin to identify two core subnetworks. The integration of functionally similar genes provided valuable insights into the potential involvement of these hub genes in diverse biological processes including angiogenesis humoral immune response regulation inflammatory response organization ECM network.

Conclusion

We have identified a total of 136 DEGs that participate in multiple biological signaling pathways. A total of 20 hub genes have demonstrated robust associations, potentially indicating novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets for both diseases.
Prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections among HIV‐positive men who have sex with men: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Shabil Muhammed , Yadav Aarti , Shamim Muhammed A. , Ahmed Mohammed , Satapathy Prakasini , Zaidan Ali A. , Khatib Mahalaqua N. , Gaidhane Shilpa , Zahiruddin Quazi S. , Rabaan Ali A. , Al Kaabi Nawal A. , Almosa Fadel A. M. , AlSihati Jehad , Sah Ranjit
Published: June 2024

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is highly prevalent and often coexists with other infectious diseases, especially Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Men who have sex with men (MSM) represent a vulnerable population in terms of HIV infection. We aimed to determine the prevalence of HCV, HBV among HIV‐infected MSM.

Methods

This systematic review and meta‐analysis searched PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest up‐to 2023/04/22. All studies reporting the prevalence of HBV or HCV infection in MSM PLHIV were included. Meta‐analysis used random effect model for synthesis and I2 along with prediction interval for heterogeneity. Subgroup analysis based on continent and meta‐regression for study size, average age and year of publication were used to explore heterogeneity. Modified Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale was used to evaluate the quality of studies according to the protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42023428764).

Results

Fifty‐six of 5948 studies are included. In 53 studies with 3,07,589 participants, a pooled prevalence of 7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5–10) was found for HCV among MSM PLHIV, while a 9% (95% CI: 4–18) prevalence was found for HBV infection from five studies which included 5641 MSM PLHIV. Asia reported the lowest pooled prevalence at 5.84% (95% CI: 2.98–11.13) for HCV while Europe reported the highest pooled prevalence at 7.76% (95% CI: 4.35–13.45). Baujat plot and influence diagnostic identified contributors to influence and between‐study heterogeneity. Sensitivity analyses omitting these studies result in considerably more precise estimates. Another sensitivity analysis as leave‐one‐out meta‐analysis did not change any pooled estimate significantly.

Conclusion

There is a significant burden of HCV and HBV among MSM PLHIV worldwide, with varying prevalence rates. Future studies should focus on these multimorbidity clusters and investigate factors influencing disease burden, long‐term outcomes, optimal testing strategies, and tailored interventions.
A scoping review of mental health status in Australian medical students and doctors‐in‐training (DiT)
Authors: Ganes Anand , Sunder Priya
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

The study and practice of medicine are known to contribute to burnout in medical students and junior doctors. There is limited data on the degree of mental health burden for Australian medical students and doctors‐in‐training (DiT). This scoping review aims to explore the impact of medical training on the mental health of Australian medical students and DiT. Exploring the mental health landscape across different stages of training will help to establish putative factors underlying psychiatric comorbidities in this demographic.

Methods

The Joanna Brigs Institute (JBI) framework for scoping review was utilized, involving the Population/Concept/Context (PCC) criteria to identify the target population and develop the search strategy. Peer‐reviewed articles, published in English from 2012 to 2022 focusing on Australian medical students' and doctors‐in‐training mental health were considered.

Results

Of the 177 articles identified, 24 studies were included in the review. The majority of the studies focused on DiT (n = 19) of which interns and residents were most well represented (n = 12) followed by surgical training (n = 5), with general practice (GP) (n = 2) and physician specialties (nil) being poorly represented. Most studies were quantitative (n = 18), with qualitative studies(n = 6) under represented. Common mental health themes identified were overall psychological distress, burnout, and depression/suicidal ideation with workplace harassment and discrimination being less well represented.

Conclusions

Australian DiT are not equally represented in the literature with how different specialty training pathways impact their mental health. Most studies were cross‐sectional, preventing a detailed longitudinal assessment of burnout and work‐associated psychological distress.
Potential association between PSCA rs2976395 functional variant and pancreatic cancer risk
Authors: Corradi Chiara , Lencioni Giulia , Felici Alessio , Rizzato Cosmeri , Gentiluomo Manuel , Ermini Stefano , Archibugi Livia , Mickevicius Antanas , Lucchesi Maurizio , Malecka‐Wojciesko Ewa , Basso Daniela , Arcidiacono Paolo Giorgio , Petrone Maria Chiara , Carrara Silvia , Götz Mara , Bunduc Stefania , Holleczek Bernd , Aoki Mateus Nóbrega , Uzunoglu Faik G. , Zanette Dalila Lucíola , Mambrini Andrea , Jamroziak Krzysztof , Oliverius Martin , Lovecek Martin , Cavestro Giulia Martina , Milanetto Anna Caterina , Peduzzi Giulia , Duchonova Beatrice Mohelnikova , Izbicki Jakob R. , Zalinkevicius Rimantas , Hlavac Viktor , van Eijck Casper H. J. , Brenner Hermann , Vanella Giuseppe , Vokacova Klara , Soucek Pavel , Tavano Francesca , Perri Francesco , Capurso Gabriele , Hussein Tamás , Kiudelis Mindaugas , Kupcinskas Juozas , Busch Olivier R. , Morelli Luca , Theodoropoulos George E. , Testoni Sabrina Gloria Giulia , Adamonis Kestutis , Neoptolemos John P. , Gazouli Maria , Pasquali Claudio , Kormos Zita , Skalicky Pavel , Pezzilli Raffaele , Sperti Cosimo , Kauffmann Emanuele , Büchler Markus W. , Schöttker Ben , Hegyi Péter , Capretti Giovanni , Lawlor Rita T. , Canzian Federico , Campa Daniele
Published: June 2024

Correlated regions of systemic interindividual variation (CoRSIV) represent a small proportion of the human genome showing DNA methylation patterns that are the same in all human tissues, are different among individuals, and are partially regulated by genetic variants in cis. In this study we aimed at investigating single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within CoRSIVs and their involvement with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) risk. We analyzed 29,099 CoRSIV‐SNPs and 133,615 CoRSIV‐mQTLs in 14,394 cases and 247,022 controls of European and Asian descent. We observed that the A allele of the rs2976395 SNP was associated with increased PDAC risk in Europeans (p = 2.81 × 10−5). This SNP lies in the prostate stem cell antigen gene and is in perfect linkage disequilibrium with a variant (rs2294008) that has been reported to be associated with risk of many other cancer types. The A allele is associated with the DNA methylation level of the gene according to the PanCan‐meQTL database and with overexpression according to QTLbase. The expression of the gene has been observed to be deregulated in many tumors of the gastrointestinal tract including pancreatic cancer; however, functional studies are needed to elucidate the function relevance of the association.
How was your day? A within‐person analysis of how mental health may moderate the route from daily micro‐events to satisfaction after work via affect and contextual performance
Authors: Junça‐Silva Ana , Caetano António
Published: June 2024

This study builds on the affective events theory and the conservation of resources theory to propose a model that analyses an affect‐to‐behaviour‐to‐outcome route, highlighting how daily micro‐events and subsequent affective reactions lead to behaviours (performance) and cognitions (satisfaction after work), and how mental health moderates this process. Results from a 5‐day diary study, during the pandemic (N = 250, n = 1221), provided data to test the proposed affect‐to‐behaviour‐to‐outcome route. Poorer mental health buffered the positive within‐person relationship between daily micro‐events, affective reactions, performance and satisfaction after work, suggesting that high levels of mental health allowed individuals to maximise the benefits of positive daily micro‐events in their satisfaction after work via affect and performance. This study presents original research analysing how situational factors create a route through which individuals experience affective reactions that influence their work behaviour, and in turn their levels of satisfaction after work.
High‐sensitive and fast MXene/silicon photodetector for single‐pixel X‐ray imaging
Authors: Chen Yance , Dai Yue , Bodepudi Srikrishna Chanakya , Liu Xinyu , Ma Yuan , Xing Shiyu , Di Dawei , Tian Feng , Ming Xin , Liu Yingjun , Pang Kai , Xue Fei , Zhang Yunyan , Yu Zexin , Dan Yaping , Penkov Oleksiy V. , Zhang Yishu , Qi Dianyu , Fang Wenzhang , Xu Yang , Gao Chao
Published: June 2024

The demand for high‐performance X‐ray detectors leads to material innovation for efficient photoelectric conversion and carrier transfer. However, current X‐ray detectors are often susceptible to chemical and irradiation instability, complex fabrication processes, hazardous components, and difficult compatibility. Here, we investigate a two‐dimensional (2D) material with a relatively low atomic number, Ti3C2Tx MXenes, and single crystal silicon for X‐ray detection and single‐pixel imaging (SPI). We fabricate a Ti3C2Tx MXene/Si X‐ray detector demonstrating remarkable optoelectronic performance. This detector exhibits a sensitivity of 1.2 × 107 μC Gyair−1 cm−2, a fast response speed with a rise time of 31 μs, and an incredibly low detection limit of 2.85 nGyair s−1. These superior performances are attributed to the unique charge coupling behavior under X‐ray irradiation via intrinsic polaron formation. The device remains stable even after 50 continuous hours of high‐dose X‐ray irradiation. Our device fabrication process is compatible with silicon‐based semiconductor technology. Our work suggests new directions for eco‐friendly X‐ray detectors and low‐radiation imaging system.

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Collaborative analysis of student writing: Building teacher capacity for supporting adolescent multilingual learners
Authors: Yaylali Ali
Published: June 2024

This conceptual article discusses a collaborative approach to building teacher capacity to support multilingual learners in secondary science classrooms. The article advocates for the collaborative analysis of student writing samples and the sharing of pedagogical insights between English language and content area teachers. Samples of student writing are analyzed situationally and linguistically to model how teachers may focus collaborative conversations on language patterns.
Examining the hepatotoxic potential of cannabidiol, cannabidiol‐containing hemp extract, and cannabinol at consumer‐relevant exposure concentrations in primary human hepatocytes
Authors: Striz Anneliese , Zhao Yang , Sepehr Estatira , Vaught Cory , Eckstrum Kirsten , Headrick Kyra , Yourick Jeffrey , Sprando Robert
Published: June 2024

Hemp extracts and consumer products containing cannabidiol (CBD) and/or other phytocannabinoids derived from hemp have entered the marketplace in recent years. CBD is an approved drug in the United States for the treatment of certain seizure disorders. While effects of CBD in the liver have been well characterized, data on the effects of other cannabinoids and hemp extracts in the liver and methods for studying these effects in vitro are limited. This study examined the hepatotoxic potential of CBD, CBD concentration‐matched hemp extract, and cannabinol (CBN), at consumer‐relevant concentrations determined by in silico modeling, in vitro using primary human hepatocytes. Primary human hepatocytes exposed to between 10‐nM and 25‐μM CBD, CBN, or hemp extract for 24 and 48 h were evaluated by measuring lactate dehydrogenase release, apoptosis, albumin secretion, urea secretion, and mitochondrial membrane potential. Cell viability was not significantly affected by CBD, CBN, or the hemp extract at any of the concentrations tested. Exposure to hemp extract induced a modest but statistically significant decrease in albumin secretion, urea secretion, and mitochondrial membrane potential at the highest concentration tested whereas CBD only induced a modest but statistically significant decrease in albumin secretion compared with vehicle control. Although this study addresses data gaps in the understanding of cannabinoid hepatoxicity in vitro, additional studies will be needed to determine how these results correlate with relevant consumer exposure and the biological effects of cannabinoids in human liver.
The relationship between financial constraints and investment efficiency
Authors: Kim Taewoo , Lee Brandon Byungwhan , Paik Daniel Gyung
Published: June 2024

This study examines how financial constraints relate to firm‐level investment efficiency. Prior research theorizes that corporate borrowing by issue of risky debt induces suboptimal capital investment spending. We extend this research to examine whether firm‐level financial constraints and internal investment efficiency are significantly related. We measure firms’ degree of overall financial constraint following the procedure developed by Whited and Wu. Our results indicate that among highly financially constrained firms, overall financial constraints are positively associated with investment, and higher financial constraints are more likely to result in greater investment inefficiency. Furthermore, we find that this relationship is more prominent for companies with high free cash flow, high bankruptcy likelihood, and high growth potential. Our findings that financial constraints have significant influence on corporate investment efficiency should be of interest to company managers, investors, and regulators alike.
Trade credit and corporate profitability: Evidence from EU‐based SMEs
Authors: Silva Sónia
Published: June 2024

This study provides empirical evidence about the impact of granting trade credit to customers on the profitability of EU‐based SMEs over 2012–2019. Results show an inverted U‐shaped relationship between corporate performance and trade credit – proxied by receivables, meaning a positive relationship between creditors and customers for low levels and a negative relationship for high levels of trade credit. This evidence is concentrated on firms with less financial flexibility, for which any deviation from the maximum point of investment in trade credit represents a negative impact on its performance due to payment delay or even a default event. Results are robust to potential endogeneity issues.
The Role and Clinical Relevance of Glycolysis‐Associated Genes on Immune Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Li Jing , Su Peng , Li Ting , Hao Yang , Wang Tianjun , Fu Lei , Liu Xin
Published: June 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) poses a significant challenge with dismal survival rates, necessitating a deeper understanding of its molecular mechanisms and the development of improved therapies. Metabolic reprogramming, particularly heightened glycolysis, plays a crucial role in HCC progression. Glycolysis‐associated genes (GAGs) emerge as key players in HCC pathogenesis, influencing the tumor microenvironment and immune responses. This study aims to investigate the intricate interplay between GAGs and the immune landscape within HCC, offering valuable insights into potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets to enhance treatment strategies and patient outcomes. Through the exploration of GAGs, we have identified two distinct molecular glycolytic subtypes in HCC patients, each exhibiting significant differences in both the immune microenvironment and prognosis. A risk model comprising five key GAGs was formulated and subsequently evaluated for their predictive accuracy. Our findings underscore the diverse tumor microenvironment and immune responses associated with the varying glycolytic subtypes observed in HCC. The identified key GAGs hold promise as prognostic indicators for evaluating HCC risk levels, predicting patient outcomes, and guiding clinical treatment decisions, particularly in the context of anticipating responses to immunotherapy drugs.
Deciphering the energy storage and electro‐catalytic potential of the BaLa2MnS5 ternary metallic sulfide prepared via single source precursor route
Authors: Jaffri Shaan Bibi , Ahmad Khuram Shahzad , Lin Wang , Gupta Ram K. , Ashraf Ghulam Abbas , Alothman Asma A.
Published: June 2024

The present work elucidates the first report on the synthesis and energy applications of the novel BaLa2MnS5 prepared from single source precursor route. This metal chalcogenide expressed a tuned band gap of 3.84 eV and an average crystallite size of 20.52 nm. Functional groups explored for BaLa2MnS5 expressed strong signals for presence of the metal sulfide bonds. The thermal decomposition pattern of BaLa2MnS5 followed a two‐phased mechanism. Synthesized metal sulfide possessed an irregular morphology with particles arranged in random manner. An assessment of the chalcogenide BaLa2MnS5 for energy applications has been carried out. When employed as an electrode material in 1 M KOH, which acted as the background electrolyte, BaLa2MnS5 chalcogenide showed a specific capacitance of 597 F g−1. Furthermore, this BaLa2MnS5 chalcogenide decorated electrode has a low resistance, as shown by the Rs of 1.35 Ω, and a specific power density of 7366 W kg−1, according to the impedance investigations. The electrochemical results for the OER activity are indicative of the OER overpotential and Tafel slope values as 388 mV and 108 mV/dec. This electrode achieved the HER overpotential value of 241 mV while the obtained Tafel slope was 194 mV/dec.
Importance of CD71+ Erythrocyte Cell Levels in Prognosis in Patients With β‐Thalassemia
Authors: Görgülügil Gizem Zorlu , Uğur Kurtoğlu Ayşegül , Uğur Sevcan , Kurtoğlu Erdal
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives

CD71+ erythroid cells (CECs) are immature red blood cells (proerythroblasts, erythroblasts, and reticulocytes). CECs play an important role in the development of sepsis and cancer by causing immunosuppression. We examined the CEC levels in the peripheral blood of beta thalassemia (βThal) patients and investigated the relationship between CECs and the clinical status of the patients, especially splenectomy.

Methods

Sixty‐eight patients with βThal (46 splenectomized and 22 nonsplenectomized) and 15 healthy controls were included in this study. The hemogram parameters, ferritin, and CECs (flow cytometry method) were measured.

Results

It was observed that the CEC level in the patient group was significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.05). CEC levels were found to be significantly higher in patients with splenectomy than in patients with nonsplenectomy (p < 0.05). CEC levels were higher in patients with nontransfusion‐dependent βT (NTD‐βThal) than in patients with transfusion‐dependent βT (TD‐βThal) (p < 0.05). CEC levels were found to be significantly higher in patients with splenectomy than in patients with nonsplenectomy in both TD‐βThal and NTD‐βThal groups (p < 0.05). There was a moderate‐negative correlation was detected between CECs and Hb levels (r = −0.467; p < 0.05).

Conclusions

High CEC levels in βThal patients develop as a result of ineffective erythropoiesis. We think that keeping CEC levels under control is important for prognosis, especially in patients with splenectomy.