bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coisolation of peptide pairs for peptide identification and MS/MS-based quantification
Authors: Smith Ian R. , Eng Jimmy K. , Barente Anthony S. , Hogrebe Alexander , Llovet Ariadna , Rodriguez-Mias Ricard A. , Villén Judit
Published: April 2022

SILAC-based metabolic labeling is a widely adopted proteomics approach that enables quantitative comparisons among a variety of experimental conditions. Despite its quantitative capacity, SILAC experiments analyzed with data dependent acquisition (DDA) do not fully leverage peptide pair information for identification and suffer from undersampling compared to label-free proteomic experiments. Herein, we developed a data dependent acquisition strategy that coisolates and fragments SILAC peptide pairs and uses y-ions for their relative quantification. To facilitate the analysis of this type of data, we adapted the Comet sequence database search engine to make use of SILAC peptide paired fragments and developed a tool to annotate and quantify MS/MS spectra of coisolated SILAC pairs. In an initial feasibility experiment, this peptide pair coisolation approach generally improved expectation scores compared to the traditional DDA approach. Fragment ion quantification performed similarly well to precursor quantification in the MS1 and achieved more quantifications. Lastly, our method enables reliable MS/MS quantification of SILAC proteome mixtures with overlapping isotopic distributions, which are difficult to deconvolute in MS1-based quantification. This study demonstrates the initial feasibility of the coisolation approach. Coupling this approach with intelligent acquisition strategies has the potential to improve SILAC peptide sampling and quantification.
A chip-based array for high-resolution fluorescence characterization of free-standing horizontal lipid membranes under voltage clamp
Authors: Ensslen Tobias , Behrends Jan C.
Published: April 2022

Optical techniques, such as fluorescence microscopy, are of great value in characterizing the structural dynamics of membranes and membrane proteins. A particular challenge is to combine high-resolution optical measurements with high-resolution voltage clamp electrical recordings providing direct information on e.g. single ion channel gating and/or membrane capacitance. Here, we report on a novel chip-based array device which facilitates optical access with water or oil-immersion objectives of high numerical aperture to horizontal free-standing lipid membranes while conrolling membrane voltage and recroding currents using micropatterned Ag/AgCl-electrodes. We demonstrate both wide-field and confocal imaging, as well as time-resolved single photon counting on free-standing membranes spanning sub-picoliter cavities are demonstrated while electrical signals, including single channel activity, are simultaneously acquired. This optically addressable microelectrode cavity array will allow combined electrical-optical studies of membranes and membrane proteins to be performed as a routine experiment.
An intranasal nanoparticle STING agonist has broad protective immunity against respiratory viruses and variants
Authors: Leekha Ankita , Saeedi Arash , Kumar Monish , Sefat Samiur Rahman , Martinez-Paniagua Melisa , Fathi Mohsen , Kulkarni Rohan , Biswas Sujit , Tsitoura Daphne , Liu Xinli , Cooper Laurence J.N. , Sebastian Manu , Hurst Brett L. , Varadarajan Navin
Published: April 2022

Respiratory viral infections, especially Influenza (endemic) or SARS-CoV-2 (pandemic since 2020), cause morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite remarkable progress in the development and deployment of vaccines, they are clearly impacted by the rapid emergence of viral variants. The development of an off-the-shelf, effective, safe, and low-cost drug for prophylaxis against respiratory viral infections is a major unmet medical need. Here, we developed NanoSTING, a liposomally encapsulated formulation of the endogenous STING agonist, 2’-3’ cGAMP, to function as an immunoantiviral. NanoSTING rapidly activates the body’s innate immune system to facilitate a broad-spectrum antiviral response against SARS-CoV-2 and influenza variants in hamsters and mice. We demonstrate that a single intranasal dose of NanoSTING can: (1) treat infections throughout the respiratory system and minimize clinical symptoms, (2) protect against highly pathogenic strains of SARS-CoV-2 (alpha and delta), (3) provide durable protection against reinfection from the same strains without the need for retreatment, (4) prevent transmission of the highly infectious SARS-CoV-2 Omicron strain, and (5) provide protection against both oseltamivir-sensitive and resistant strains of influenza. Mechanistically, administration of NanoSTING rapidly upregulated interferon-stimulated and antiviral pathways in both the nasal turbinates and lung. Our results support using NanoSTING as a thermostable, immunoantiviral with broad-spectrum antiviral properties making it appealing as a therapeutic for prophylactic or early post-exposure treatment.
Quantitative modeling demonstrates format-invariant representations of mathematical problems in the brain
Authors: Nakai Tomoya , Nishimoto Shinji
Published: April 2022

Mathematical problems can be described in either symbolic form or natural language. Previous studies have reported that activation overlaps exist for these two types of mathematical problems, but it is unclear whether they are based on similar brain representations. Furthermore, quantitative modeling of mathematical problem solving has yet to be attempted. In the present study, subjects underwent 3 h of functional magnetic resonance experiments involving math word and math expression problems, and a read word condition without any calculations was used as a control. To evaluate the brain representations of mathematical problems quantitatively, we constructed voxel-wise encoding models. Both intra- and cross-format encoding modeling significantly predicted brain activity predominantly in the left intraparietal sulcus (IPS), even after subtraction of the control condition. Representational similarity analysis and principal component analysis revealed that mathematical problems with different formats had similar cortical organization in the IPS. These findings support the idea that mathematical problems are represented in the brain in a format-invariant manner.
How to make recommendation systems fair: an adequate utility-based approach
Authors: Tansuchat Roengchai , Kosheleva Olga
Published: April 2022

Purpose

In user-oriented websites, e.g. in news websites or in seller websites, it is important to take the user’s preferences into account when deciding which items to place in higher-exposure locations. The traditional approach to solving this problem, based on maximizing the average user utility, leads to unfair solutions, and this eventually hurts the company’s bottom line. Because of this, researchers have proposed complex schemes that explicitly add fairness to the formulation of this problem. But since utilities already describe human preferences, it is strange that it is necessary to add something beyond utilities.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors analyze the problem of selecting exposure level for different items from the viewpoint of decision theory, the basic theory underlying all our activities, including economic ones.

Findings

The authors show that a more adequate use of utilities, namely, taking into account that Nash’s bargaining solution is a proper way to make group decisions, not maximizing average utility, already leads to fair solutions.

Originality/value

The idea to apply Nash’s bargaining solution to the problem of assigning exposure level to different items is new, as well as the analysis that shows that this application restores the fairness, which is missing in the current solutions.
Incentives management among health workers in primary health-care facilities: addressing important issues in rural Ghana
Authors: Okyere Eunice , Ward Paul Russell , Marfoh Kissinger , Mwanri Lillian
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This study seeks to explore health workers' perceptions and experiences on incentives for motivating and retaining them in primary health-care facilities in rural Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

Phenomenological research design was used to explore health workers’ experiences and perceptions on their incentive packages. Sixty-eight in-depth interviews were conducted with health-care workers in primary health-care facilities and analyzed using thematic analysis approach.

Findings

The findings show health-care workers’ perceptions on their incentives, ranging from low awareness, unfair distribution, favoritism, means of punishment and incentives regarded unattractive. The preferred incentive packages identified were salary increase, housing availability, recognition, adequate supplies, and risk and responsibility allowances. Health-care workers suggested for the modification of incentives including vehicle importation waiver, reduction in study leave years and opportunity to pursue desired courses.

Originality/value

The findings suggest that incentives that align with health-care workers’ preferences can potentially improve their motivation and influence retention. Health-care workers’ concern on incentives having been used as favors and punishment as well as unfair distribution should be addressed by health managers and policymakers, to achieve the desired purpose of motivating and retaining them in rural areas. Appropriate internal monitoring mechanisms are needed for incentives regulation and to improve health workers’ retention in rural Ghana.
Validation of the psychological safety, psychological empowerment, intrapreneurial behaviour and individual performance measurements
Authors: Mahmoud Mahmoud Ahmad , Ahmad Shuhymee bin , Poespowidjojo Donny Abdul Latief
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess the validity of the psychological safety (PS), psychological empowerment (PE), intrapreneurial behaviour (IB) and individual performance (IP) construct measurements originally developed in Western individualistic cultures.

Design/methodology/approach

Proportionate stratified systematic sampling was used among the production/operations middle managers in Nigerian medium enterprises (MEs), resulting in 355 valid responses. The measurements were analysed through internal consistency analysis, content, convergent and discriminant validity analysis.

Findings

The result shows that all four construct measurements are suitable and appropriate to gauge the respective constructs in collectivistic cultures such as Nigeria.

Research limitations/implications

Cross-sectional self-reported data were used to analyse the result of this study, which may lead to common method variance.

Practical implications

Organizations, especially MEs, can use the validated measurements of this study to enhance work results in the Nigerian context.

Social implications

Collectivistic cultures can benefit from the widely used measurements of PS, PE, IB and IP despite been originally developed in Western individualistic cultures.

Originality/value

This paper extends the body of knowledge by validating the measurements of PS, PE, IB and IP in collectivistic cultures such as Nigeria. Measurement validation for these constructs is scarce in this context. Thus, this study will provide a consistent and efficient reference for forthcoming studies and improve the credibility and replicability of future research results in collectivistic cultures.
Detection method for diel vertical migration pattern using 2D cross‐correlation with ADCP backscatter time‐series data
Authors: Chun Sehwa , La Hyoung Sul , Son Wuju , Kim Young Cheol , Cho Kyoung‐Ho , Yang Eun Jin
Published: April 2022

Diel vertical migration (DVM), which refers to the global daily migration of zooplankton and micronekton (hereafter ‘zooplankton’), serves an important function in oceanic ecosystems. DVM can be recognized as a variation in the sound scattering layer (SSL), but no standard exists for identifying SSLs, and no definition has been proposed to describe the basic features of DVM. Hence, a standardized DVM detection method is needed to report consistent results and efficiently compare the parameters over broad ocean areas and long time‐scales.

We developed an automated, quantitative method for detecting DVM and identifying the characteristic parameters using 2D cross‐correlation. We established the DVM trajectory model with linear and sinusoidal parts featuring a specific height and width. The 2D cross‐correlation method was applied to acoustic echogram images of the volume backscattering strength (Sv, dB re 1 m−1) with a synthetic image made from the DVM trajectory model. From the cross‐correlation coefficients, we found the candidate lines exhibiting the strongest possibility of being DVM trajectories.

We tested the DVM detection method on the acoustic echograms for 273 days, of which Sv was gathered by a bottom‐moored, upward‐looking acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP). For each identified DVM trajectory, four quantitative parameters describing their spatial and temporal structures (the maximum and minimum depths and ascent and descent times) were determined, and the existence of multi‐layer was recognized. We confirmed that this method showed better performance than the prior method based on the weighted mean depth (WMD), and as a result of visual scrutiny inspection, our method showed 88% DVM detection performance.

Our goal was to suggest a robust, quantitative, automated DVM detection method using 2D cross‐correlation. The method was successfully applied to detect DVM trajectories and define the characteristic parameters regardless of fluctuation or the multi‐layer structure due to its robustness and simple model. Analysing DVM behaviours across environments with this method could help reveal the significance of these behaviours in ocean environments.
Associations of FOXP3 gene polymorphisms with susceptibility and severity of preeclampsia: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Fan Yu‐Xin , Wu Jiang‐Hai , Yin Sun‐Jun , Zhou Tao , Huang Yan‐Hua , Meng Rui , Wang Ping , He Gong‐Hao
Published: April 2022

Objective

FOXP3 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were recently elucidated to influence the development of preeclampsia (PE), but the results on this issue still remained controversial. Thus, a meta‐analysis was implemented to systematically investigate the roles of FOXP3 SNPs in PE.

Methods

Eligible publications were identified by retrieving relevant electronic databases. Meanwhile, the association intensity was estimated by calculating odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in various genetic models.

Results

Totally eight investigations involving 3446 subjects were enrolled in the final meta‐analysis. The AC and AC + CC genotypes of FOXP3 rs3761548 were related to the susceptibility of PE in over‐dominant (OR = 1.19, 95%CI = 1.02‐1.38, P = 0.03) and recessive (OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.36‐0.97, P = 0.04) models. Furthermore, correlation between rs2232365 and PE was observed in recessive model (GG vs. GA + AA) (OR = 0.79, 95%CI: 0.65‐0.97, P = 0.03). Moreover, rs2232365 GA and GG + GA genotypes were associated with the severity of PE. However, rs4824747, rs3761547 and rs2280883 polymorphisms had no significant impact on PE susceptibility.

Conclusions

FOXP3 rs3761548 and rs2232365 SNPs influenced the PE susceptibility and therefore may be potential biomarkers for prediction of PE risk.
Ultrasound predictors of adverse outcome in pregnancy complicated by pre‐existing and gestational diabetes
Authors: Garbagnati Marta , Aye Christina Y. L. , Cavallaro Angelo , Mathewlynn Sam , Ioannou Christos , Impey Lawrence
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Ultrasound assessment of fetuses subjected to hyperglycemia is recommended but, apart from increased size, little is known about its interpretation, and the identification of which large fetuses of diabetic pregnancy are at risk is unclear. Newer markers of adverse outcomes, abdominal circumference growth velocity and cerebro‐placental ratio, help to predict risk in non‐diabetic pregnancy. Our study aims to assess their role in pregnancies complicated by diabetes.

Material and methods

This is a retrospective analysis of a cohort of singleton, non‐anomalous fetuses of women with pre‐existing or gestational diabetes mellitus, and estimated fetal weight at the 10th centile or above. Gestational diabetes was diagnosed by selective screening of at risk groups. A universal ultrasound scan was offered at 20 and 36 weeks of gestation. Estimated fetal weight, abdominal circumference growth velocity, presence of polyhydramnios, and cerebro‐placental ratio were evaluated at the 36‐week scan. A composite adverse outcome was defined as the presence of one or more of perinatal death, arterial cord pH less than 7.1, admission to Neonatal Unit, 5‐minute Apgar less than 7, severe hypoglycemia, or cesarean section for fetal compromise. A chi‐squared test was used to test the association of estimated fetal weight at the 90th centile or above, polyhydramnios, abdominal circumference growth velocity at the 90th centile or above, and cerebro‐placental ratio at the 5th centile or below with the composite outcome. Logistic regression was used to assess which ultrasound markers were independent risk factors. Odds ratios of composite adverse outcome with combinations of independent ultrasound markers were calculated.

Results

A total of 1044 pregnancies were included, comprising 87 women with pre‐existing diabetes mellitus and 957 with gestational diabetes. Estimated fetal weight at the 90th centile or above, abdominal circumference growth velocity at the 90th centile or above, cerebro‐placental ratio at the 5th centile or below, but not polyhydramnios, were significantly associated with adverse outcomes: odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) 1.85 (1.21–2.84), 1.54 (1.02–2.31), 1.92 (1.21–3.30), and 1.53 (0.79–2.99), respectively. Only estimated fetal weight at the 90th centile or above and cerebro‐placental ratio at the 5th centile or below were independent risk factors. The greatest risk (odds ratio 6.85, 95% confidence interval 2.06–22.78) was found where both the estimated fetal weight is at the 90th centile or above and the cerebro‐placental ratio is at the 5th centile or below.

Conclusions

In diabetic pregnancies, a low cerebro‐placental ratio, particularly in a macrosomic fetus, confers additional risk.
Murine burn lesion model for studying acute and chronic wound infections
Authors: Calum Henrik , Trøstrup Hannah , Laulund Anne Sofie , Thomsen Kim , Christophersen Lars , Høiby Niels , Moser Claus
Published: April 2022

Acute wounds, such as thermal injury, and chronic wounds are challenging for patients and the healthcare system around the world. Thermal injury of considerable size induces immunosuppression, which renders the patient susceptible to wound infections, but also in other foci like the airways and urinary tract. Infected thermal lesions can progress to chronic wounds with biofilm making them more difficult to treat. While animal models have their limitations, murine wound models are still the best tool at the moment to identify strategies to overcome these challenges. Here, we present a murine burn model, which has been developed to study biofilm formation, the significance of wound healing, and for identifying novel treatment candidates. Investigating the effect of a thermal injury in mice, we observed that 48 h after introduction of the injury, the mice showed a reduction in polymorphonuclear neutrophil granulocytes (PMNs) and a reduced capacity for phagocytosis and oxidative burst. Regarding the chronic wound, Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm arrested wound healing and kept the wound in an inflammatory state, but suppressing PMN function by means of the PMN factor S100A8/A9, corresponding to observations in human venous leg ulcers. Monotherapy and dual treatment with S100A8/A9 and ciprofloxacin on P. aeruginosa biofilm‐infected murine wounds have been investigated. In combination, S100A8/A9 and ciprofloxacin reduced the bacterial quantity, lowered the proinflammatory response, and increased anti‐inflammatory cytokines after 4 days of treatment. When the treatment was prolonged, an additional prevention of resistance development was detected in all the dual‐treated mice. In the present review, we provide data on using the murine model for research with the aim of better understanding pathophysiology of wounds and for identifying novel treatments for humans suffering from these lesions.
Factors influencing birth setting decision making in the United States: An integrative review
Authors: George Erin K. , Shorten Allison , Lyons Karen S. , Edmonds Joyce K.
Published: April 2022

Background

The United States has the highest perinatal morbidity and mortality (M&M) rates among all high‐resource countries in the world. Birth settings (birth center, home, or hospital) influence clinical outcomes, experience of care, and health care costs. Increasing use of low‐intervention birth settings can reduce perinatal M&M. This integrative review evaluated factors influencing birth setting decision making among women and birthing people in the United States.

Methods

A search strategy was implemented within the CINAHL, PubMed, PsycInfo, and Web of Science databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guided the review, and the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence‐Based Practice model was used to evaluate methodological quality and appraisal of the evidence. The Whittemore and Knafl integrative review framework informed the extraction and analysis of the data and generation of findings.

Results

We identified 23 articles that met inclusion criteria. Four analytical themes were generated that described factors that influence birth setting decision making in the United States: “Birth Setting Safety vs. Risk,” “Influence of Media, Family, and Friends on Birth Setting Awareness,” “Presence or Absence of Choice and Control,” and “Access to Options.”

Discussion

Supporting women and birthing people to make informed decisions by providing information about birth setting options and variations in models of care by birth setting is a critical patient‐centered strategy to ensure equitable access to low‐intervention birth settings. Policies that expand affordable health insurance to cover midwifery care in all birth settings are needed to enable people to make informed choices about birth location that align with their values, individual pregnancy characteristics, and preferences.
Immunomodulatory and direct activities of ropeginterferon alfa‐2b on cancer cells in mouse models of leukemia
Authors: Sakatoku Kazuki , Nakashima Yasuhiro , Nagasaki Joji , Nishimoto Mitsutaka , Hirose Asao , Nakamae Mika , Koh Hideo , Hino Masayuki , Nakamae Hirohisa
Published: April 2022

Although ropeginterferon alfa‐2b has recently been clinically applied to myeloproliferative neoplasms with promising results, its antitumor mechanism has not been thoroughly investigated. Using a leukemia model developed in immunocompetent mice, we evaluated the direct cytotoxic effects and indirect effects induced by ropeginterferon alfa‐2b in tumor cells. Ropeginterferon alfa‐2b therapy significantly prolonged the survival of mice bearing leukemia cells and led to long‐term remission in some mice. Alternatively, conventional interferon‐alpha treatment slightly extended the survival and all mice died. When ropeginterferon alfa‐2b was administered to interferon‐alpha receptor 1–knockout mice after the development of leukemia to verify the direct effect on the tumor, the survival of these mice was slightly prolonged; nevertheless, all of them died. In vivo CD4+ or CD8+ T‐cell depletion resulted in a significant loss of therapeutic efficacy in mice. These results indicate that the host adoptive immunostimulatory effect of ropeginterferon alfa‐2b is the dominant mechanism through which tumor cells are suppressed. Moreover, mice in long‐term remission did not develop leukemia, even after tumor rechallenge. Rejection of rechallenge tumors was canceled only when both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were removed in vivo, which indicates that each T‐cell group functions independently in immunological memory. We show that ropeginterferon alfa‐2b induces excellent antitumor immunomodulation in hosts. Our finding serves in devising therapeutic strategies with ropeginterferon alfa‐2b.
Differential diagnosis of thyroid nodules by the Demetics ultrasound‐assisted diagnosis system and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound combined with thyroid image reporting and data systems
Authors: Wang Guojuan , Nie Fang , Wang Yanfang , Yang Dan , Dong Tiantian , Liu Ting , Wang Peihua
Published: April 2022

Background

More and more new ultrasound techniques with their own characteristics are applied in the differential diagnosis of thyroid nodules. This study amied to assess and compare the diagnostic value of the Demetics ultrasound‐assisted diagnosis system and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) combined with the Thyroid Image Reporting and Data Systems (TI‐RADS) for thyroid nodules.

Design and Patients

A total of 600 thyroid nodules with pathological findings were retrospectively analysed. Demetics and CEUS were performed for all nodules. The diagnostic efficacy of Demetics and CEUS for nodules of different sizes was evaluated and compared in terms of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), positive likelihood ratio (LR+) and negative likelihood ratio (LR−). The characteristics of nodules diagnosed and misdiagnosed by Demetics were compared to analyse the factors affecting the diagnostic accuracy of Demetics. The necessity of CEUS for nodules that are prone to misdiagnosis in Demetics was assessed.

Results

Both Demetics and CEUS can be used for the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant thyroid nodules of different sizes. The diagnostic agreement between Demetics and CEUS for thyroid nodules of different sizes was moderate, substantial and fair, respectively. The sensitivity and NPV of Demetics were higher than those of CEUS, and the specificity, PPV and LR+ of CEUS were higher than that of Demetics. The LR− of Demetics was lower than those of CEUS. There were significant differences in age, calcification and margin in analysing the factors affecting Demetics. CEUS correctly diagnosed 50 of the 101 nodules misdiagnosed by Demetics.

Conclusions

Demetics showed high sensitivity in diagnosing thyroid nodules, while CEUS showed high specificity. In clinical practice, CEUS can further improve the diagnostic accuracy for nodules that are easily misdiagnosed by Demetics.
The inhibition of enterocyte proliferation by lithocholic acid exacerbates necrotizing enterocolitis through downregulating the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway
Authors: Feng Zhoushan , Jia Chunhong , Lin Xiaojun , Hao Hu , Li Sitao , Li Fei , Cui Qiliang , Chen Yaoyong , Wu Fan , Xiao Xin
Published: April 2022

Objectives

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a catastrophic gastrointestinal emergency in preterm infants, whose exact aetiology remains unknown. The role of lithocholic acid (LCA), a key component of secondary bile acids (BAs), in NEC is unclear.

Methods

Clinical data were collected to analyse the changes of BAs in NEC patients. In vitro studies, the cell proliferation and cell death were assessed. In vivo experiments, the newborn rats were administered with low or high dose of LCA and further induced NEC.

Results

Clinically, compared with control group, total BAs in the NEC patients were significantly higher when NEC occurred. In vitro, LCA treatment significantly inhibited the cell proliferation through arresting cell cycle at G1/S phase without inducing apoptosis or necroptosis. Mechanistically, the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway was involved. In vivo, LCA inhibited intestinal cell proliferation leading to disruption of intestinal barrier, and thereby increased the severity of NEC. Specifically, LCA supplementation caused higher levels of FITC‐labelled dextran in serum, reduced PCNA expression and inhibited the activity of Wnt/β‐catenin pathway in enterocytes. The LC–MS/MS test found that LCA was significantly higher in intestinal tissue of NEC group, and more obviously in the NEC‐L and NEC‐H group compared with the DM group.

Conclusion

LCA exacerbates NEC by inhibiting intestinal cell proliferation through downregulating the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway.
A framework to select strategies for conserving and restoring habitat connectivity in complex landscapes
Authors: Cameron D. Richard , Schloss Carrie A. , Theobald David M. , Morrison Scott A.
Published: April 2022

Protecting or restoring habitat connectivity in landscapes undergoing rapid environmental change requires multiple conservation and restoration strategies. These strategies have different risk profiles, costs, and require various types of technical expertise to conduct. This diversity in landscape context and strategic approach requires more nuance and flexibility than traditional connectivity conservation plans have supported. We present a novel, spatially‐explicit framework for developing connectivity conservation priorities and strategies based on Omniscape, an adaptation of Circuitscape, a common tool for mapping habitat connectivity. Using California (USA) as a case study, we mapped structural connectivity and developed a classification of connectivity conservation and restoration categories across the gradient of land use intensities, as well as by land ownership. The most constrained areas with highly concentrated flow (movement potential) make up 3% of the state and occur primarily on private lands. Conversely, intact areas with diffuse flow that indicate multiple connectivity options cover 55% of the state, including the majority of the desert and mountain ecoregions. This “strategy mapping” approach can be used to identify priority areas for conservation investment and suites of potential implementation mechanisms and partners, which in turn may improve the efficiency and effectiveness of connectivity conservation in this era of global change.
The Overdose Response with Take Home Naloxone (ORTHN) project: Evaluation of health worker training, attitudes and perceptions
Authors: Monds Lauren A. , Bravo Maria , Mills Llewellyn , Malcolm Annie , Gilliver Rosie , Wood William , Harrod Mary Ellen , Read Phillip , Nielsen Suzanne , Dietze Paul M. , Lenton Simon , Bleeker Anne M. , Lintzeris Nicholas
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Naloxone is a life‐saving medication that reverses opioid overdose; naloxone can be provided on a ‘take‐home’ basis so naloxone can be administered outside of the health‐care setting. The Overdose Response and Take Home Naloxone (ORTHN) project established a model of care for take‐home naloxone (THN) interventions across alcohol and other drug and harm reduction services in NSW, Australia. This paper evaluates the staff training and credentialing program, and examines staff attitudes and perspectives regarding the provision of THN interventions in these settings.

Methods

Staff across seven services were trained through a ‘train‐the‐trainer’ credentialing model to deliver ORTHN, including naloxone supply. Staff were surveyed regarding their experience, attitudes and knowledge on THN prior to and after training, and after 6 months. At the 6 months follow up, staff were asked about the interventions they provided, barriers and enablers to uptake, and opinions regarding future rollout.

Results

A total of 204 staff were trained and credentialed to provide the ORTHN intervention. Most (60%) were nurses, followed by needle syringe program workers and allied health/counsellors (32%). Linear and logistic regression analyses indicated that the training program was associated with significant improvements in staff knowledge and attitudes towards overdose and THN; however, only attitudinal improvements were maintained over time. There were high rates of staff satisfaction with the ORTHN intervention and training.

Discussion/Conclusions

The ORTHN program is ‘fit for purpose’ for broad implementation in these settings. A number of potential barriers (e.g. time, medication and staffing costs) and enablers (e.g. peer engagement, regulatory framework for naloxone supply) in implementing THN interventions were identified.
Sulci and gyri are topological cerebral landmarks in individual subjects: a study of brain navigation during tumour resection
Authors: Tomaiuolo Francesco , Raffa Giovanni , Morelli Adolfo , Rizzo Vincenzo , Germanó Antonino , Petrides Michael
Published: April 2022

Surgical resection of brain tumours aims at the maximal safe resection of the pathological tissue with minimal functional impairment. To achieve this objective, reliable anatomical landmarks are indispensable to navigate into the brain. The neuronavigation system can provide information to target the location of the patient's lesion, but after the craniotomy, a brain shift and relaxation mismatch with it often occur. By contrast, sulci/gyri are topological cerebral landmarks in individual patients and do shift with the brain parenchyma during lesion removal, but remain independent from brain shift in relation to the sulci/gyri. Here, we present a case report of a novel strategy based on anatomical landmarks to guide intraoperative brain tumour resection, without using a standard neuronavigation system. A preoperative brain mapping of the peri‐tumoural sulci by the MRI and surface reconstruction was followed by confirmation of the anatomical landmarks for the motor cortex using navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation. The resulting location was used as a seed for diffusion tensor imaging tractography to reconstruct the corticospinal tracts. These selected cortical landmarks (sulci/gyri) delimited the margins of the two lesions and the specific location under which the corticospinal tract courses, thus facilitating monitoring of the peri‐tumoural region during brain resection. In this case, 96% of the brain tumour from the pericentral somatomotor region was successfully removed without chronic post‐operative motor impairments. This approach is based on cortical anatomy that is fixed during surgery and does not suffer from the brain shift that could misplace the lesion according to the neuronavigation system.
A citizen science approach to enhance dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) data collection to improve species management
Authors: Merten Wessley , Appeldoorn Richard , Latour Jacob , Glaser Collin , Becker Emily , Hammond Don
Published: April 2022

Public integration in scientific research is fundamental to the conservation and enhancement of marine fisheries. A comprehensive review of the world's largest international citizen science capture–mark–recapture program (Dolphinfish Research Program (DRP)) for dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) was completed to catalogue 16 years of conventional tagging data and angler participation from 2002 to 2017. Data showed at least 1313 captains, 1332 vessels and more than 3285 fishing mates from around the world participated in the tag and release of 23,232 dolphinfish. Of those fish, 571 were recaptured and 19 horizontal movement categories were used to reveal detailed descriptions of movements of dolphinfish in the wild. Our review identified science‐based outcomes and established future research and outreach direction with the public. The combination of new studies, strategies and initiatives identified through this review will help advance our understanding of dolphinfish and provide the necessary data to ensure the long‐term conservation of this critically important offshore fish species.
Metabolomics in quality formation and characterisation of tea products: a review
Authors: Cai Hongli , Zhong Zhuoheng , Li Zhanming , Zhang Xiaojing , Fu Hongwei , Yang Bingxian , Zhang Lin
Published: April 2022

Tea is one of the biggest categories of modern non‐alcoholic beverages with health benefits. Through different processes, tea products are divided into six main types: green tea, yellow tea, white tea, oolong tea, black tea and dark tea. Metabolomics is helpful for the comprehensive, accurate and rapid determination of tea metabolites in different types of tea products and tea processing materials. It has been widely applied in studying the relationship of tea metabolites and its quality. Therefore, it is necessary to summarise the application of metabolomics in tea. In this review, we described and summarised (1) the main metabolites of six types of tea and their implications on tea quality with emphasis on the content differences in the main metabolites in different types of tea; (2) the research on optimising the key processing steps of six types of tea based on metabolomics and the discussion of various new strategies for effectively improving their quality and (3) the advanced approach to characterise and distinguish different grades of tea products via metabolomics. The current review offers guidance for the improvement of tea quality by metabolomics and its potential challenges.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis on the effectiveness of web‐based psychosocial interventions among patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Wan Su Wei , Chng Yun Jia Devon , Lim Siew Hoon , Chong Choon Seng , Pikkarainen Minna , He Hong‐Gu
Published: April 2022

Aims

To synthesize the effectiveness of web‐based psychosocial interventions on self‐efficacy, anxiety, depression, quality of life (QoL), non‐specific psychological and cancer‐specific distress among patients with colorectal cancer (CRC).

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Data sources

Six databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL and CNKI) were searched from inception to December 2021.

Review methods

Experimental/quasi‐experimental studies involving patients with CRC for the improvement of aforementioned outcomes were included. Two reviewers screened and extracted the data, and assessed studies' methodological quality using risk of bias tools. Meta‐analyses and narrative syntheses were performed.

Results

Nineteen studies consisting of 1386 participants were identified. Cognitive‐behavioural therapy delivered online was the most common trialled web‐based psychosocial intervention. Meta‐analyses revealed no positive effect for self‐efficacy (standardized mean difference 0.93, 95% CI: 0.52 to 1.35, p < .01) and minimal benefit for QoL (mean difference [MD] 2.83, 95% CI: −0.31 to 5.98, p = .08) but significant positive effects for anxiety (MD −2.23, 95% CI: −3.31 to −1.14, p < .01) and depression (MD −2.84, 95% CI: −4.09 to −1.59, p < .01) among CRC survivors in the intervention group as compared with the control group. Narrative synthesis suggested possible benefits in reducing distress.

Conclusion

Web‐based psychosocial interventions are promising alternatives to conventional delivery methods in reducing patients' anxiety, depression and distress. However, evidence on self‐efficacy and QoL remains inconsistent. More adequately powered, well‐designed trials with targeted and theory‐based interventions are required to ascertain findings.

Impact

By highlighting the potential of web‐based psychosocial interventions in reducing anxiety and depression among CRC survivors, this review has put forth beneficial information supporting the use and acceptance of web‐based care delivery in light of COVID‐19 restrictions and nationwide lockdowns. Meanwhile, the paucity of empirical support reflects the necessity of more extensive research to test and improve other health outcomes.

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021261396
Surviving in the fish gut: Comparative inhibitory capacities against the host proteinases in cestodes of the genus Proteocephalus
Authors: Izvekova Galina I. , Frolova Tatyana V. , Izvekov Evgeny I. , Zhokhov Alexander E.
Published: April 2022

Currently, little is known about inhibitory substances enabling tapeworms to settle in fish intestines thereby avoiding proteolysis. Contrary to previous studies with certain host–parasite pairs, this research compares the inhibitory capacities in three tapeworm species of the same genus Proteocephalus from four different fishes (P. torulosus from dace and zope, P. sagittus from stone loach and P. cernuae from ruffe). The tapeworm extracts studied significantly reduced the activity of commercial trypsin (although to a lesser degree than the synthetic inhibitor of serine proteinases PMSF), displaying clear inter‐specific variation in worms’ inhibitory ability. We also measured the proteolytic activity of the host intestinal mucosa exposed to tapeworm extracts which served as inhibitors. Based on per cent inhibition values, all tapeworm extracts significantly suppressed the mucosal proteolytic activity, with marked differences between certain host–parasite pairs. SDS‐PAGE electrophoresis of the incubation media and extracts detected in each tapeworm species 20–36 protein bands with apparent molecular weights from 10–12 to 312.5 kDa, mostly below 50 kDa. The incubation medium and extract of each parasite shared one to six bands ranging from 12 to 35 kDa, depending on its species, with only four bands common for two or more species. The band profiles suggest that in various Proteocephalus species inhibitory capacities against host proteinases can be ensured by different proteins.
Utility of the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria for the nutritional assessment of patients with end‐stage renal disease receiving chronic hemodialysis
Authors: Song Hyun Chul , Shin Jungho , Hwang Jin Ho , Kim Su Hyun
Published: April 2022

Background

Malnutrition is associated with adverse outcomes in patients on chronic haemodialysis. Thus, identifying accurate methods for diagnosing malnutrition is essential. The present retrospective study investigated the utility of the new Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria in patients undergoing chronic haemodialysis.

Methods

Phase angle and fat‐free mass index (FFMI) were derived using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Malnutrition was determined when the subjects had at least one phenotypic criterion (weight loss, low body mass index [BMI] or FFMI).

Results

This study included 103 patients undergoing chronic haemodialysis and 46 (44.7%) patients were diagnosed as malnourished. Malnutrition determined using the GLIM criteria was associated with increased risks of all‐cause death (hazard ratio = 3.0, p = 0.044) and infection requiring hospitalisation (hazard ratio = 2.4, p = 0.015), independent of age, sex and comorbidities. However, malnutrition was not related to major adverse cardiovascular events (p = 0.908). We further evaluated the longitudinal changes in phenotypic parameters. Subjects with median levels of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein exceeding 5 mg L–1 exhibited decreased body weight and BMI (p = 0.015 and 0.016, respectively). In addition, body weight, BMI and FFMI were reduced in subjects with a median protein catabolic rate of < 1.0 mg kg–1 day–1, even after adjustment for age, sex and comorbidities (p = 0.026, 0.053 and 0.039, respectively).

Conclusions

Malnutrition assessed using the GLIM criteria could be a useful predictor of mortality and infection in patients on chronic haemodialysis. To improve nutritional status, approaches for decreasing inflammation and increasing protein intake are needed.
Biodiversity and conservation of “solar‐powered” sea slugs from the Western Atlantic under climate change scenarios
Authors: Jiménez Lina Marcela , Simões Nuno , Yáñez‐Arenas Carlos
Published: April 2022

Elysiais a genus of sea slugs in which some species can “steal” chloroplasts (kleptoplasty) from algae and keep them photosynthetically active inside their cells. Solar‐powered animals are more susceptible to climate change as photosynthesis can increase the stress for these animals in extreme environmental conditions. Here, we used the Maxent algorithm and environmental envelopes (i.e. the multi‐dimensional environmental space in which a species can occur) to model the ecological niche of 21 Elysia species in the Caribbean to estimate their current and future potential distribution. We then used predicted distributions to map potential taxonomical richness and to describe the representation of the genus inside the marine protected areas (MPAs). For most species, we show an expansion of the northern and southern range of distribution, but a reduction in the central part. Although changes in richness appeared in different areas, predictions emphasize four large extensions that have a potential current richness of 13 and will have no species in the future: Pamlico Sound, North Carolina; the southwest of the Gulf of Mexico; the Great Bahama Bank; and the southwest of Brazil. Out of the total area with environmental conditions adequate for at least one of the species in the genus, 24.7% is located within MPAs.
Clinical Efficacy of Posterior Percutaneous Endoscopic Unilateral Laminotomy with Bilateral Decompression for Symptomatic Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Zhao Xiao‐bing , Ma Ya‐jie , Ma Hai‐jun , Zhang Xin‐yu , Zhou Hong‐gang
Published: April 2022

Objective

To compare the clinical efficacy of posterior percutaneous endoscopic unilateral laminotomy (PPEUL) and anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) in the treatment of single‐segment spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).

Methods

This is a retrospective research, from January 2017 to December 2019, 30 cases were included in the PPEUL group and 32 cases were included in the ACDF group. The operative duration, blood loss, length of stay, complications, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, MacNab classification and imaging data were collected preoperatively, postoperative 1‐week, final follow‐up and statistically analyzed.

Results

The surgery was completed successfully on all patients, and there were no serious complications, such as nerve or spinal cord injury or infection. In the PPEUL and ACDF groups, the operative duration were 56.63 ± 1.40 and 65.21 ± 2.45 min, the intraoperative blood loss were 51.69 ± 3.23 and 50.51 ± 5.48 mL, and the hospitalization duration was 5.75 ± 1.43 and 6.38 ± 2.16 days. The follow‐up period in the PPEUL and ACDF groups was 24.96 ± 1.12 months and 25.65 ± 1.45 months, respectively. There was no significant difference in intraoperative blood loss between the two groups, but the hospitalization and operative durations in the PPEUL group were significantly shorter than those in the ACDF group (P < 0.05). The VAS scores at postoperative 1 week and final follow‐up were significantly improved compared with those before surgery. The JOA scores at postoperative 1 week and final follow‐up were significantly improved compared with those before surgery, but there was no significant difference between the two groups at the last follow‐up. The intervertebral disc height of the adjacent segment at the last follow‐up was significantly lower in the ACDF group than in the PPEUL group (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference between the two groups in the intervertebral disc height of the surgical segment (P > 0.05). The rate of excellent and good results was 90.0% and 87.5%, respectively. Postoperative cervical CT and MRI showed that the spinal canal was fully decompressed and spinal cord compression was relieved.

Conclusion

PPEUL has the advantages of reduced trauma, rapid recovery and remarkable curative efficacy, so it is a new choice for the treatment of CSM.