bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SIMS Data Correction Procedure for Quasi‐Simultaneous Arrival (QSA) Under‐counting and Ramifications of Misapplication
Authors: Jones Clive , Fike David A.
Published: July 2024

Isotope geochemistry requires isotope ratios measured using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) to be made with optimal precision and accuracy. Under some analytical conditions when using electron multiplier detectors, secondary ions may be under‐counted because of quasi‐simultaneous arrival (QSA) at the first dynode. The relative magnitude of the associated QSA correction to raw measured isotopic ratios can be up to seventy permil or more. Therefore, not applying the correction, or misapplication of it could lead to significant inaccuracies in published isotope ratio data. Examples and ramifications of the latter are described in addition to a straightforward procedure for QSA under‐counting correction.
Review of interventions and effectiveness for heavy menstrual bleeding in women with moderate and severe von Willebrand disease
Authors: Turan Ozlem , Gomez Keith , Kadir Rezan Abdul
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Women with VWD have an increased risk of gynaecological complications due to haemostatic challenges of menstruation.

Aim

Review gynecological bleeding symptoms and their management in women with moderate‐severe VWD.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective cohort analysis of prospectively collected data for women with moderate and severe VWD attending a joint multidisciplinary clinic between January 2010 and December 2020. Data was collected from electronic patient records on response to treatment options using PBAC, quality of life (QoL) assessment using SF‐36 scores, haemoglobin and ferritin in comparison to pre‐treatment values.

Results

Of the 67 women managed in the clinic; all reported heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). Combination therapy with concurrent hormonal agents and tranexamic acid was required in 80% of women. There was an overall 64% improvement in PBAC scores in the first year, reflecting on QoL with 35% improvement in SF‐36 score and correction of anaemia in 21% of cases. The cumulative effect of continued treatment culminated in greater reduction of blood loss, with an overall 71% improvement in PBAC scores by 5 years. One in 10 women required surgical treatment for a gynaecological pathology. Non‐compliance was the cause of excessive unscheduled bleeding in 50% of adolescents. After 3 years, one in five women experienced a relapse of symptom, of whom 46% became perimenopausal and 54% discontinued hormonal treatments due to concerns about fertility, hair loss and weight gain.

Conclusion

Management of HMB requires careful monitoring and follow‐up by MDT with close collaboration between the gynaecology team and HTC. Control of HMB often requires a combination therapy.
Vulnerability and academic burnout in the university context: Interaction events, social exchanges, and resilience behaviours
Authors: Figueiredo Sandra , Ferreira Sofia
Published: July 2024

This study focuses on how levels of burnout impact on the quality of sleep and academic performance of university students. Previous research has found limited evidence on the prevalence of burnout in university students, in addition to the relationship between exhaustion behaviours and sleep quality. The social exchange theory (SET) is important for understanding how the various actors in that context behave and with what effect on their social exchanges, here, specifically, verifying academic burnout and its perception by students and institutions themselves. Research has not sufficiently addressed the examination of burnout and forms of coping in that context. The data for this study were collected during the 2023 academic year, through an online survey, from 311 Portuguese university students from different undergraduate courses, without children and without student‐worker status, aged between 18 and 38 (M = 21.58 and DP = 3.20). The results showed a high‐negative correlation between burnout and sleep quality in university students with a direct impact on academic performance (burnout rates and poor sleep quality are associated with low academic performance scores, regardless of the course attended). This research and its results make a contribution that directs the management of university and specifically of courses towards a greater awareness of the existence of burnout and well‐complied sleep schedules by students. Given the evidence that there is a deficit in sleep quality caused by burnout in university students, resilience in this context is one of the aspects that deserve further research, in order to prevent burnout, poor sleep quality, and consequently, control of academic grades.
Plum protein isolate‐caffeic acid conjugate as bioactive emulsifier: functional properties and bioavailability
Authors: Vujetić Jelena , Fraj Jadranka , Milinković Budinčić Jelena , Popović Senka , Đorđević Tatjana , Stolić Žužana , Popović Ljiljana
Published: July 2024

Plum protein isolate obtained from plum cake after oil extraction had protein content over 90% and amino acid composition of 36% which about 13% were essential amino acids. Evaluation of functional properties of conjugates obtained by interaction between plum protein isolate and caffeic acid, in three different concentrations, was carried out in this study. The conjugation of proteins with phenols forms complexes of higher molecular weights as a result of cross‐linking. The solubility of obtained conjugates was increased with the increase a concentration of caffeic acid at alkaline pH (8–10) for about 50%. Moreover, emulsion properties also were improved by conjugation with caffeic acid. In vitro digestion is considered to characterise and understand ‘fate’ of food components after passing gastrointestinal conditions. The obtained conjugates were digestible and have a good bioavailability of bioactive compounds.
Psychosocial Care Delivery in Intensive Home Treatment During a Mental Health Crisis: A Qualitative Thematic Analysis
Authors: Clibbens Nicola , Close Adrianne , Poxton Julie , Davies Carly , Geary Lesley , Dickens Geoffrey
Published: July 2024

Community‐based intensive home treatment (IHT) is delivered as an alternative to psychiatric hospital admission as part of crisis resolution services. People receiving IHT present with complex mental health issues and are acutely distressed. Home treatment options are often preferred and there is evidence of service fidelity, although less is known about psychosocial care in this setting. Underpinned by a critical realist epistemology, this study aimed to explore psychosocial care in the context of home treatment from the perspectives of staff, service users and family carers. Data were collected using individual interviews and focus groups in two NHS organisations in England. An inductive qualitative thematic analysis resulted in five themes focused on (1) the staffing model and effective care provision, (2) the organisation of work and effective care provision, (3) skills and training and service user need, (4) opportunities for involvement and personal choice, and (5) effective communication. Findings suggest that co‐production may improve congruence between IHT service design, what service users and carers want and staff ideals about optimal care. Service designs that optimise continuity of care and effective communication were advocated. Staff training in therapeutic interventions was limited by not being tailored to the home treatment context. Evidence gaps remain regarding the most effective psychosocial care and related training and supervision required. There is also a lack of clarity about how carers and family members ought to be supported given their often‐crucial role in supporting the person between staff visits.
Unveiling the heart of disaster nursing: A qualitative study on motivations, challenges, and lessons from the devastating 2023 Turkey earthquakes
Authors: Mert Ibrahim Sani , Koksal Kemal
Published: July 2024

Background

Turkey has faced a notable escalation in earthquake disasters in the last two decades. Despite initiating a health and disaster management system, nurses' pivotal roles and experiences in handling such crises have been disregarded.

Aim

This qualitative study analyzed nurses' experiences before, during, and after deployment in response to the 2023 Turkey earthquakes to enhance disaster‐response efforts.

Methods

This descriptive qualitative study was conducted between March and May 2023 using semistructured interviews with 15 nurses purposively  sampled among those who volunteered to work in the earthquake zone. The MIRACLE and COREQ guidelines were followed for reporting qualitative research.

Findings

The analysis exposed five main themes for pre‐tasking: moral obligation, motivation, insufficient experience, balancing responsibilities, and preparation challenges. The peri‐task themes include responsibilities, skills, bravery and characteristics, workload management, teamwork, and outcomes. Post‐tasking has three themes: competence assessment, career goals and aspirations, and support. Training and coping with anxiety and stress are common themes for all phases.

Conclusions

Disaster relief requires a comprehensive and coordinated response from healthcare organizations, government agencies, and support systems. Providing adequate training, ensuring safety protocols, offering mental health support, and fostering a fair and supportive work environment are crucial steps in mitigating the adverse effects on nurses and, by extension, the patient care process in earthquake‐affected areas.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Nurse training in disaster preparedness should cover various response methods and involve multiple disciplines. Managers can help by arranging drills, simulations, online courses, and workshops and promoting partnerships for improved collaboration. Psychological support should be included to address emotional challenges. Regularly updating response policies based on past experiences is crucial for preparedness and efficiency.
Summary characteristics for multivariate function‐valued spatial point process attributes
Authors: Eckardt Matthias , Comas Carles , Mateu Jorge
Published: July 2024

Prompted by modern technologies in data acquisition, the statistical analysis of spatially distributed function‐valued quantities has attracted a lot of attention in recent years. In particular, combinations of functional variables and spatial point processes yield a highly challenging instance of such modern spatial data applications. Indeed, the analysis of spatial random point configurations, where the point attributes themselves are functions rather than scalar‐valued quantities, is just in its infancy, and extensions to function‐valued quantities still remain limited. In this view, we extend current existing first‐ and second‐order summary characteristics for real‐valued point attributes to the case where, in addition to every spatial point location, a set of distinct function‐valued quantities are available. Providing a flexible treatment of more complex point process scenarios, we build a framework to consider points with multivariate function‐valued marks, and develop sets of different cross‐function (cross‐type and also multi‐function cross‐type) versions of summary characteristics that allow for the analysis of highly demanding modern spatial point process scenarios. We consider estimators of the theoretical tools and analyse their behaviour through a simulation study and two real data applications.
Educational policy as predictor of computational thinking: A supervised machine learning approach
Authors: Ezeamuzie Ndudi O. , Leung Jessica S. C. , Fung Dennis C. L. , Ezeamuzie Mercy N.
Published: July 2024

Background

Computational thinking is derived from arguments that the underlying practices in computer science augment problem‐solving. Most studies investigated computational thinking development as a function of learners' factors, instructional strategies and learning environment. However, the influence of the wider community such as educational policies on computational thinking remains unclear.

Objectives

This study examines the impact of basic and technology‐related educational policies on the development of computational thinking.

Methods

Using supervised machine learning, the computational thinking achievements of 31,823 eighth graders across nine countries were analysed. Seven rule‐based and tree‐based classification models were generated and triangulated to determine how educational policies predicted students' computational thinking.

Results and conclusions

Predictions show that students have a higher propensity to develop computational thinking skills when schools exercise full autonomy in governance and explicitly embed computational thinking in their curriculum. Plans to support students, teachers and schools with technology or introduce 1:1 computing have no discernible predicted influence on students' computational thinking achievement.

Implications

Although predictions deduced from these attributes are not generalizable, traces of how educational policies affect computational thinking exist to articulate more fronts for future research on the influence of educational policies on computational thinking.
Clinical characteristics of primary aldosteronism screened from Chinese patients with hypertension: The China primary aldosteronism prospective study
Authors: Hu Zhe , Chen Xin , Cheng Yi‐Bang , Zhong Ping , Li Qing‐An , Zhao Yu , Luan Hong , Ren Jie , Chen Gai‐Ling , Wang Ji‐Guang
Published: July 2024

We investigated the clinical characteristics of primary aldosteronism (PA) screened from patients with hypertension in China. The participants were hypertensive patients who were suspected of PA and registered in the China Primary Aldosteronism Prospective Study. Plasma aldosterone‐to‐renin ratio (ARR) was used as the screening test. In patients screened positive for PA, that is, an ARR exceeding the thresholds and plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) > 100 pg/mL, a confirmatory test was performed for diagnosis. Patients with PA underwent a CT scan and adrenal venous sampling for subtyping. Of the 1497 screened patients, 754 (50.4%) had an ARR exceeding the diagnostic threshold and 637 (84.5% of those eligible) were registered. These registered hypertensive patients with suspected PA had a mean (standard deviation) age of 52.6 ± 12.1 years, and included 442 (58.6%) women. In multiple stepwise logistic regression, the significant odds ratios for the presence of diagnosed (n = 490) versus suspected and non‐diagnosed PA (n = 147) were 4.54 (95% CI: 2.78‐7.39) for a history of hypokalemia, 0.79 (95% CI: 0.64‐0.98) for a 0.9 mmol/l higher serum total cholesterol, and 2.25 (95% CI: 1.63‐3.10) for a doubling of PAC in the supine or standing/sitting position. In multiple stepwise logistic regression, the significant odds ratios for the presence of unilateral (n = 135) versus bilateral PA (n = 53) were 3.04 (95% CI: 1.90‐4.87) for a 0.4 mmol/l lower minimum serum potassium concentration and 1.86 (95% CI: 1.20‐2.86) for a 0.3 mmol/l higher serum high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. PA might be a biochemical continuum in the adrenal hypersecretion of aldosterone as well as hypokalemia.
The European Union's Global Health Actorness: A Research Agenda for a New Age of Pandemics
Authors: Fernández Óscar
Published: July 2024

Whilst the European Union's (EU's) response to health emergencies has historically been subpar, some suggest that it emerged from COVID‐19 as a stronger global health actor. This prompts two interrelated questions: how have International Relations scholars conceptualised and assessed EU ‘actorness’ in the all‐too‐often neglected field of global health, and what adjustments are required in anticipation of a potential new age of pandemics? This article revisits the longstanding notion of ‘actorness’ and dissects the few studies that apply it systematically to analyse the EU's role in global health. After identifying some key shortcomings in the literature, the article formulates a research agenda suitable for the complex and high‐stakes nature of contemporary global health endeavours. By further adapting the concept of ‘actorness’ to a multifaceted EU external action as well as to an increasingly intricate global governance architecture, this research agenda contributes to the broader scholarship on the EU's international outreach.
Bioinsecticidal potential of rose essential oil against the cowpea beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Aslan Ebru Gül , Ulusoy Seyhan , Kınaytürk Neslihan Kaya , Sarıçam Tuğba , Periz Çağdaş Deniz
Published: July 2024

Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius), also known as the cowpea beetle or pulse beetle, is the most important pest of stored cowpea. The beetle causes both qualitative and quantitative losses in the grains, all of which result in low crop yields. The objective of this work was to investigate the insecticidal effect of rose essential oil (REO) on adult Callosobruchus maculatus in terms of mortality and oviposition. In addition, the viable mesophilic aerobic bacteria of C. maculatus were evaluated, and surface molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) maps were examined to determine the interaction domains of the bioactive components of REO. The interaction mechanism between the AChE enzyme (PDB ID: 6XXY, 4EY6, 4EY7 and 6O4W) and the REO components was investigated using the molecular docking method. The highest mortality of 92.40 ± 0.03% was obtained at 16 μL within 72 h of exposure. Higher concentrations of the essential oil decreased the laying performance of C. maculatus. A significant decrease of 91.33% in the number of eggs laid was observed. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS) results showed that the major constituents of Rosa damascena Miller essential oil (REO) were citronellol (46.15%), geraniol (16.19%), nonadecane (8.80%) and nerol (7.43%). Treatments of 4, 8, 12 and 16 μL of REO significantly reduced the viable mesophilic aerobic bacteria of C. maculatus samples compared with the control. It was found that the most effective binding was between the REO components and the 4EY7 protein, with binding energies ranging from −6.9 to −8.9 kcal/mol. Although the major component of REO was citronellol (46.15%), the best interaction was observed with farnesol isomer B (0.80%). Overall, these results suggest that REO has the potential to control C. maculatus as an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic pesticides.
Exploration of plasma‐activated water (PAW) as a cleaning‐in‐place (CIP) solution for fouling removal and microbial reduction
Authors: Shah Urvi , Rivero W. C. , Wang Qingyang , Zheng Haotian , Salvi Deepti
Published: July 2024

The rapid fouling and bacterial contamination of equipment, heat exchangers, and pipelines are major concerns in food manufacturing plants. The process of cleaning‐in‐place (CIP) in the food manufacturing industry involves hazardous chemicals such as sulfuric acid, chlorine, sodium hydroxide, and potassium hydroxide. This study aims to investigate the cleaning efficiency of a novel environment‐friendly solution, plasma‐activated water (PAW), for removing dairy and plant‐based fouling and for biofilm reduction. PAW was produced by exposing water to plasma, which is a partially ionized gas generated by applying electricity to air. PAW prepared in this study had a pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and oxidation–reduction potential (ORP) of 2.5 ± 0.1, 1170. 1 ± 202.2 μS/cm, and 589.0 ± 2.4 mV, respectively. Holding PAW at different temperatures (20–75°C) did not change pH, ORP, and EC significantly, while nitrite and nitrate concentrations in PAW did not show a consistent trend with temperature. The treatment time and temperature of PAW were optimized for cleaning fouled coupons (stainless‐steel type 304 and 316) using model fouling fluids (MFF) with dairy (whey) and plant‐based (oat) proteins using full‐factorial design. The optimized PAW combinations (15 min/75°C and 5 min/75°C) were found to be as effective for fouling removal as compared to CIP controls (conventional caustic and acid solutions). Optimized PAW also showed significant biofilm reduction of Listeria innocua on stainless‐steel coupons with/without fouling, with at least 4.4 log and 4.0 log reductions in L. innocua biofilms when attached to MFF‐whey and MFF‐oat, respectively.

Practical applications

Plasma‐activated water (PAW) can inactivate a wide spectrum of microorganisms on various food and food contact surfaces. We propose the use of environment‐friendly plasma‐activated water (PAW), which can be prepared on‐site and on‐demand for cleaning‐in‐place (CIP) operations in the food industry. The results of this study suggest the potential of PAW as a promising CIP alternative for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces soiled by fouling deposits in dairy and plant‐based industries.
Lingual neoplasia in nonhuman primates: Description of five cases and a literature review
Authors: Berrocal Alexis , Vail Krystal , Gonzalez Olga , Shivanna Vinay , Dick Edward J. , Watanabe Tatiane Terumi Negrão , Murillo Daniel Felipe Barrantes
Published: July 2024

Background

Documentation of lingual tumors is scarce in nonhuman primates.

Methods

Through a multi‐institutional retrospective study we compile cases of primary and metastatic neoplasia in non‐human primates.

Results

We describe five cases of lingual neoplasia. Three cases are primary lingual tumors: chondro‐osteoblastic lipoma in a howler monkey, squamous cell carcinoma, and fibroma in two baboons. We describe two cases of metastatic lymphoma in the tongue in rhesus macaques. A literature review of published lingual neoplasia in nonhuman primates is included in this manuscript.

Conclusion

Lingual neoplasia is seldom reported in non‐human primates.
Artificial intelligence/machine learning for neuroimaging to predict hemorrhagic transformation: Systematic review/meta‐analysis
Authors: Dagher Richard , Ozkara Burak Berksu , Karabacak Mert , Dagher Samir A. , Rumbaut Elijah Isaac , Luna Licia P. , Yedavalli Vivek S. , Wintermark Max
Published: July 2024

Background and Purpose

Early and reliable prediction of hemorrhagic transformation (HT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is crucial for treatment decisions and early intervention. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis on the performance of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models that utilize neuroimaging to predict HT.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science was conducted until February 19, 2024. Inclusion criteria were as follows: patients with AIS who received reperfusion therapy; AI/ML algorithm using imaging to predict HT; or presence of sufficient data on the predictive performance. Exclusion criteria were as follows: articles with less than 20 patients; articles lacking algorithms that operate solely on images; or articles not detailing the algorithm used. The quality of eligible studies was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies‐2 and Checklist for Artificial Intelligence in Medical Imaging. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were calculated using a random‐effects model, and a summary receiver operating characteristic curve was constructed using the Reitsma method.

Results

We identified six eligible studies, which included 1640 patients. Aside from an unclear risk of bias regarding flow and timing identified in two of the studies, all studies showed low risk of bias and applicability concerns in all categories. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, and DOR were .849, .878, and 45.598, respectively.

Conclusion

AI/ML models can reliably predict the occurrence of HT in AIS patients. More prospective studies are needed for subgroup analyses and higher clinical certainty and usefulness.
Which compartments of the optic nerve and its sheath are associated with intracranial pressure? An exploratory study
Authors: Pansell Jakob , Bottai Matteo , Bell Max , Rudberg Peter C. , Friman Ola , Cooray Charith
Published: July 2024

Background and Purpose

The optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) is a commonly used estimate of intracranial pressure (ICP). The rationale behind this is that pressure changes in the cerebrospinal fluid affect the optic nerve subarachnoid space (ONSAS) thickness. Still, possible effects on other compartments of the optic nerve sheath (ONS) have not been studied. This is the first study ever to analyze all measurable compartments of the ONS for associations with elevated ICP.

Methods

We measured changes in ICP and changes in ONS compartments in 75 patients treated with invasive ICP monitoring at the Karolinska University Hospital. Associations between changes in ICP and changes in ONS compartments were estimated with generalized estimating equations. The potential to identify elevated ICP was assessed with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) for ONS compartments associated with ICP changes.

Results

Both ONSAS and perioptic dura mater thickness were significantly associated with changes in ICP in multivariable modeling. ONSAS was the only compartment that independently predicted changes in ICP, with an AUROC of 0.69 for predicting ICP increase. Still, both the perioptic dura mater thickness and the optic nerve diameter added value in predicting ICP changes in multivariable modeling.

Conclusions

The results from this study challenge the current understanding of the mechanism behind the association between ICP and ONSD. Contrary to the common opinion that ONSAS is the only affected compartment, this study shows a more complex picture. It suggests that all ONS compartments may add value in predicting changes in ICP.
Lessons to be learned when designing comprehensible patient‐oriented online information about temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Uzunçıbuk Hande , Marrapodi Maria Maddalena , Ronsivalle Vincenzo , Cicciù Marco , Minervini Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

Background

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a prevalent ailment with a global impact, affecting a substantial number of individuals. While some individuals are receiving treatment from orthodontists for TMD, a significant proportion of individuals obtain knowledge through websites.

Objectives

Our purpose had been to evaluate, from a patient‐oriented perspective, the readability of home pages of websites scored in the 10 most prominent devoted to TMD. We also determined what level of education would have been needed to get an overview of the information on the websites under scrutiny. This approach ensures that our findings are centred on the patient experience, providing insights into how accessible and understandable websites about TMD.

Methods

We determined the top 10 patient‐focused English language websites by searching for ‘temporomandibular disorders’ in the ‘no country redirect’ plugin of the Google Chrome browser (www.google.com/ncr). The readability of the texts was assessed using the Gunning fog index (GFI), Coleman Liau index (CLI), Automated readability index (ARI) Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG), Flesch Kincald grade level (FKGL), Flesh reasing ease (FRE) (https://readabilityformulas.com).

Results

The mean Flesch reading ease index score was determined to be 48.67, accompanied by a standard deviation of 15.04 and these websites require an average of 13.49 years of formal education (GFI), with a standard deviation of 2.62, for ease of understanding.

Conclusion

Our research indicates that a significant proportion of websites related to TMD can be defined as a level of complexity that exceeds the ability to read comprehension of the general population.
Oxidised rice bran oil induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in IPEC‐J2 cells via the Nrf2 signalling pathway
Authors: Wang Ruqi , Wang Chuanqi , Chen Peide , Qi Huiyu , Zhang Jing
Published: July 2024

Rice bran oil is a type of rice oil made by leaching or pressing during rice processing and has a high absorption rate after consumption. When oxidative rancidity occurs, it may cause oxidative stress (OS) and affect intestinal function. Meanwhile, the toxic effects of oxidised rice bran oil have been less well studied in pigs. Therefore, the IPEC‐J2 cells model was chosen to explore the regulatory mechanisms of oxidised rice bran oil on OS and apoptosis. Oxidised rice bran oil extract treatment (OR) significantly decreased the viability of IPEC‐J2 cells. The results showed that OR significantly elevated apoptosis and reactive oxygen species levels and promoted the expression of pro‐apoptotic gene Caspase‐3 messenger RNA levels. The activation of Nrf2 signalling pathway by OR decreased the cellular antioxidant capacity. This was further evidenced by the expression of kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1, heme oxygenase 1, NADH: quinone oxidoreductase 1, superoxide dismutase 2 and heat shock 70 kDa protein genes and proteins were all downregulated. In conclusion, our results suggested that oxidised rice bran oil induced damage in IPEC‐J2 cells through the Nrf2 signalling pathway.
Neotropical non‐primate canopy mammals: historical trends, omissions, and geographic gaps in the knowledge
Authors: Astiazarán‐Azcárraga Alberto , Delfín‐Alfonso Christian Alejandro , Lira‐Noriega Andrés , Prieto‐Torres David A. , Gallina‐Tessaro Sonia
Published: July 2024

Canopy mammals constitute a diverse and widely distributed group. However, these species have not been widely studied, and there are currently many gaps in our knowledge of their ecology, behaviour, distribution, and conservation status.

We identified crucial trends and omissions in terms of research effort on research themes, taxonomic groups, countries, and protected areas (PAs) and geographic information biases.

A systematic review was conducted by consulting two electronic databases (Web of Science and Scopus), including research conducted within neotropical countries (from central Mexico to northern Argentina) until the end of the first half of 2021. All the references obtained were reviewed and categorised, and the geographical location of each study was extracted to evaluate geographical gaps.

We found that two orders (Carnivora and Didelphimorphia) and three families (Didelphidae, Felidae, and Cricetidae) were the most studied taxa, and were featured in more than 50% of cases. Brazil had the highest number of studies. Topics concerning diseases (19% of cases), distribution (14%), and ecology (14%) were the most frequently addressed; only 4.6% of the studies focused on anthropogenic disturbances, and less than 30% of the studies were conducted within PAs.

We found that one of the largest and most important geographical biases in knowledge was in the northern Amazon region, where the number of studies was low or null.

This study lays the groundwork for future research on these understudied mammals, to develop better research that can allow us to design more appropriate conservation strategies.
Runs of homozygosity reveal contrasting histories of inbreeding across global lineages of the edible porcini mushroom, Boletus edulis
Authors: Brejon Lamartinière Etienne , Tremble Keaton , Dentinger Bryn T. M. , Dasmahapatra Kanchon K. , Hoffman Joseph I.
Published: July 2024

Inbreeding, the mating of individuals that are related through common ancestry, is of central importance in evolutionary and conservation biology due to its impacts on individual fitness and population dynamics. However, while advanced genomic approaches have revolutionised the study of inbreeding in animals, genomic studies of inbreeding are rare in plants and lacking in fungi. We investigated global patterns of inbreeding in the prized edible porcini mushroom Boletus edulis using 225 whole genomes from seven lineages distributed across the northern hemisphere. Genomic inbreeding was quantified using runs of homozygosity (ROHs). We found appreciable variation both among and within lineages, with some individuals having over 20% of their genomes in ROHs. Much of this variation could be explained by a combination of elevation and latitude, and to a lesser extent by predicted habitat suitability during the last glacial maximum. In line with this, the majority of ROHs were short, reflecting ancient common ancestry dating back approximately 200–1700 generations ago, while longer ROHs indicative of recent common ancestry (less than approximately 50 generations ago) were infrequent. Our study reveals the inbreeding legacy of major climatic events in a widely distributed forest mutualist, aligning with prevailing theories and empirical studies of the impacts of historical glaciation events on the dominant forest tree species of the northern hemisphere.
A novel MAP kinase‐interacting protein MoSmi1 regulates development and pathogenicity in Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Wang Yu , Cui Xinyue , Xiao Junlian , Kang Xiaoru , Hu Jinmei , Huang Zhicheng , Li Na , Yang Chuyu , Pan Yuemin , Zhang Shulin
Published: July 2024

The cell wall is the first barrier against external adversity and plays roles in maintaining normal physiological functions of fungi. Previously, we reported a nucleosome assembly protein, MoNap1, in Magnaporthe oryzae that plays a role in cell wall integrity (CWI), stress response, and pathogenicity. Moreover, MoNap1 negatively regulates the expression of MoSMI1 encoded by MGG_03970. Here, we demonstrated that deletion of MoSMI1 resulted in a significant defect in appressorium function, CWI, cell morphology, and pathogenicity. Further investigation revealed that MoSmi1 interacted with MoOsm1 and MoMps1 and affected the phosphorylation levels of MoOsm1, MoMps1, and MoPmk1, suggesting that MoSmi1 regulates biological functions by mediating mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway in M. oryzae. In addition, transcriptome data revealed that MoSmi1 regulates many infection‐related processes in M. oryzae, such as membrane‐related pathway and oxidation reduction process. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that MoSmi1 regulates CWI by mediating the MAPK pathway to affect development and pathogenicity of M. oryzae.
Histone (de)acetylation in epigenetic regulation of Phytophthora pathobiology
Authors: Guan Yufeng , Gajewska Joanna , Floryszak‐Wieczorek Jolanta , Tanwar Umesh Kumar , Sobieszczuk‐Nowicka Ewa , Arasimowicz‐Jelonek Magdalena
Published: July 2024

Phytophthora species are oomycetes that have evolved a broad spectrum of biological processes and improved strategies to cope with host and environmental challenges. A growing body of evidence indicates that the high pathogen plasticity is based on epigenetic regulation of gene expression linked to Phytophthora's rapid adjustment to endogenous cues and various stresses. As 5mC DNA methylation has not yet been identified in Phytophthora, the reversible processes of acetylation/deacetylation of histone proteins seem to play a pivotal role in the epigenetic control of gene expression in oomycetes. To explore this issue, we review the structure, diversity, and phylogeny of histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) in six plant‐damaging Phytophthora species: P. capsici, P. cinnamomi, P. infestans, P. parasitica, P. ramorum, and P. sojae. To further integrate and improve our understanding of the phylogenetic classification, evolutionary relationship, and functional characteristics, we supplement this review with a comprehensive view of HATs and HDACs using recent genome‐ and proteome‐level databases. Finally, the potential functional role of transcriptional reprogramming mediated by epigenetic changes during Phytophthora species saprophytic and parasitic phases under nitro‐oxidative stress is also briefly discussed.
Potential emergence of terbinafine resistance by squalene epoxidase gene mutations: An 18‐month cohort study of onychomycosis patients in the United States
Authors: Gupta Aditya K. , Wang Tong , Polla Ravi Shruthi , Cooper Elizabeth A. , Bamimore Mary A. , Lincoln Sara A. , Foreman Hui‐Chen , Piguet Vincent , Bakotic Wayne L.
Published: July 2024

Background

There is a concerning rise in antifungal‐resistant dermatophytosis globally, with resistance to terbinafine conferred by point mutations in the squalene epoxidase (SQLE) gene.

Objectives

Report changes in the prevalence and profile of SQLE mutations in onychomycosis patients in the United States.

Methods

A longitudinal cohort study of toenail samples was collected from suspected onychomycosis patients over an 18‐month period from 2022 to 2023. Samples were submitted from across the United States and subjected to multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reactions for dermatophyte detection, with further screening of SQLE mutations at four known hotspots (393Leu, 397Phe, 415Phe and 440His).

Results

A total of 62,056 samples were submitted (mean age: 57.5 years; female: 60.4%). Dermatophytes were detected in 38.5% of samples, primarily Trichophyton rubrum complex (83.6%) and T. mentagrophytes complex (10.7%). A survey of SQLE mutations was carried out in 22,610 dermatophyte samples; there was a significant increase in the prevalence of SQLE mutations between the first quarter of 2022 and the second quarter of 2023 (29.0 to 61.9 per 1000 persons). The Phe397Leu substitution was the predominant mutation; Phe415Ser and His440Tyr have also emerged which were previously reported as minor mutations in skin samples. The temporal change in mutation rates can be primarily attributed to the Phe415Ser substitution. Samples from elderly patients (>70 years) are more likely to be infected with the T. mentagrophytes complex including strains harbouring the Phe415Ser substitution.

Conclusion

The prevalence of SQLE mutations among onychomycosis patients with Trichophyton infections may be underestimated. Older individuals may have a higher risk.
Chloroplast NADH dehydrogenase‐like complex‐mediated cyclic electron flow is the main electron transport route in C4 bundle sheath cells
Authors: Ermakova Maria , Woodford Russell , Fitzpatrick Duncan , Nix Samuel J. , Zwahlen Soraya M. , Farquhar Graham D. , von Caemmerer Susanne , Furbank Robert T.
Published: July 2024

The superior productivity of C4 plants is achieved via a metabolic C4 cycle which acts as a CO2 pump across mesophyll and bundle sheath (BS) cells and requires an additional input of energy in the form of ATP. The importance of chloroplast NADH dehydrogenase‐like complex (NDH) operating cyclic electron flow (CEF) around Photosystem I (PSI) for C4 photosynthesis has been shown in reverse genetics studies but the contribution of CEF and NDH to cell‐level electron fluxes remained unknown.

We have created gene‐edited Setaria viridis with null ndhO alleles lacking functional NDH and developed methods for quantification of electron flow through NDH in BS and mesophyll cells.

We show that CEF accounts for 84% of electrons reducing PSI in BS cells and most of those electrons are delivered through NDH while the contribution of the complex to electron transport in mesophyll cells is minimal. A decreased leaf CO2 assimilation rate and growth of plants lacking NDH cannot be rescued by supplying additional CO2.

Our results indicate that NDH‐mediated CEF is the primary electron transport route in BS chloroplasts highlighting the essential role of NDH in generating ATP required for CO2 fixation by the C3 cycle in BS cells.
Stomatal dynamics in Alloteropsis semialata arise from the evolving interplay between photosynthetic physiology, stomatal size and biochemistry
Authors: Zhou Yanmin , Osborne Colin P.
Published: July 2024

C4 plants are expected to have faster stomatal movements than C3 species because they tend to have smaller guard cells. However, little is known about how the evolution of C4 photosynthesis influences stomatal dynamics in relation to guard cell size and environmental factors. We studied photosynthetically diverse populations of the grass Alloteropsis semialata, showing that the origin of C4 photosynthesis in this species was associated with a shortening of stomatal guard and subsidiary cells. However, for a given cell size, C4 and C3–C4 intermediate individuals had similar or slower light‐induced stomatal opening speeds than C3 individuals. Conversely, when exposed to decreasing light, stomata in C4 plants closed as fast as those in non‐C4 plants. Polyploid formation in some C4 plants led to larger stomatal cells and was associated with slower stomatal opening. Conversely, diversification of C4 diploid plants into wetter environments was associated with an acceleration of stomatal opening. Overall, there was significant relationship between light‐saturated photosynthesis and stomatal opening speed in the C4 plants, implying that photosynthetic energy production was limiting for stomatal opening. Stomatal dynamics in this wild grass therefore arise from the evolving interplay between photosynthetic physiology and the size and biochemical function of stomatal complexes.
Urban hyperspectral reference data availability and reuse: State‐of‐the‐practice review
Authors: Salcido Jessica M. O. , Laefer Debra F.
Published: July 2024

Hyperspectral remote sensing is currently underutilized in urban environments due to significant barriers concerning the existence, availability, and quality of urban hyperspectral reference spectra. This paper exposes these barriers by identifying, cataloging, and characterizing the contents of 23 spectral libraries, developing metrics to assess compliance with the Principles of Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability, and Reusability (FAIR), and evaluating existing resources using these criteria. Only 2931 urban spectral records were found within the 4 Global Spectral Libraries (0.61% of 476,592 published spectra). Within a further 19 Local Urban Spectral Libraries, 3862 additional urban spectra were found, but only 1662 (43%) were accessible without restriction. Content analysis revealed insufficient representation of urban material heterogeneity, imbalanced categories, and limited library interoperability, all of which further hinder effective data utilization. In response, this paper proposes a 14‐category metadataset, with specific considerations to overcome environmentally induced and inherent, intra‐material variability. In addition, material‐based spectral groupings and data resampling to common hyperspectral equipment specifications are recommended. These measures aim to enhance the utility of urban spectral libraries by improving FAIR compliance, thereby contributing to a more cohesive and enduring framework for hyperspectral reference data.
Is it safe to use ovarian follicular fluid from cows seropositive for brucellosis in the production of in vitro embryos?
Authors: Andrade Rafaella Silva , Custódio Dircéia Aparecida da Costa , Silva Fernandes do Vale Leonardo , Oliveira Érika Aparecida , Lage Andrey Pereira , Dorneles Elaine Maria Seles
Published: July 2024

Animal reproduction biotechniques are important tools for the technological advancement of livestock, as they allow the selection of the reproductive potential of superior quality females and males; however, infectious diseases that have a predilection for the reproductive system can be a hindrance for the use of these technologies. Therefore, the present study aimed to detect Brucella spp. in the ovarian follicular fluid of brucellosis‐positive bovine cows. A total of 47 bovine ovarian follicular fluid aspirates from cows, positive in tests for brucellosis and from Brucella‐positive herd, were submitted to PCR. The primers used in the PCR were specific to the genus Brucella (bcsp31 gene). All 47 bovine aspirates were negative for Brucella spp. 0.00% (95% CI: 0.00–4.00%). Our results demonstrated that Brucella spp. was absent in the ovarian follicular fluid from seropositive cows, which indicates that Brucella spp.‐infected cows could be used for reproductive biotechnologies carried out with follicular aspirates. Future studies are needed to more precisely evaluate the feasibility and safety of using these oocytes from brucellosis‐seropositive cows to transfer embryos to heifers/cows not infected by Brucella, aiming to produce calves free of the infection.
Embracing the politics of transformation: Policy action as “battle‐settlement events”
Authors: Patterson James , Paterson Matthew
Published: July 2024

Societal transformations for addressing climate change are intensely contested and at risk of resistance and backlash to ambitious policy action. But they are frequently modeled through heuristics such as S‐curves which abstract from such conflicts, assuming increasing returns to scale as a driver of transformations. This is the case even while scholars accept the presence of political conflict in transformation processes. Within political science and allied disciplines, the notions of policy feedback and policy coalitions have been deployed to understand how such political conflicts may be understood. But these approaches risk gravitating toward an instrumental design impulse that inadvertently downplays conflict. We argue that policy action for societal transformations should be re‐conceptualized as an unfolding series of battle‐settlement events whereby heated episodic political struggles over a certain policy object or issue play out and eventually settle in ways that structure future debates while nonetheless remaining indeterminate and open to challenge or reversal. Such an approach reflects the varied empirical experiences of climate policy action to date which include both accumulation and reversal. It also helps explain trajectories of change that are discontinuous and lurching in contrast to common images of transformation as progressive and cumulative. We illustrate this approach through two cases of unfolding societal transformation on climate change: coal phaseout in the United Kingdom and renewable energy uptake in Australia.
Temporal associations of emotional and social loneliness and psychosocial functioning in emerging adulthood
Authors: Mobach Lynn , Wolters Nine E. , Klein Anke M. , Koelen Jurrijn A. , Vonk Peter , van der Heijde Claudia M. , Wuthrich Viviana M. , Rapee Ronald M. , Wiers Reinout W.
Published: July 2024

Emerging adulthood is an important developmental phase often accompanied by peaks in loneliness, social anxiety, and depression. However, knowledge is lacking on how the relationships between emotional loneliness, social loneliness, social isolation, social anxiety and depression evolve over time. Gaining insight in these temporal relations is crucial for our understanding of how these problems arise and maintain each other across time. Young adults from a university sample (N = 1,357; M = 23.60 years, SD = 6.30) filled out questionnaires on emotional and social loneliness, social isolation, depressive and social anxiety symptoms at three time points within a 3‐year period. Random intercept cross‐lagged panel models were used to disentangle reciprocal and prospective associations of loneliness subtypes, social isolation, depressive and social anxiety symptoms across time. Results showed that on the within‐person level, increases in emotional and social loneliness as well as social isolation predicted higher depression levels on later timepoints. Increases in depressive symptoms also predicted increases in subsequent social loneliness, but not in emotional loneliness. Finally, increases in depressive symptoms predicted increases in social isolation. There were no significant temporal relations between loneliness and social isolation on the one hand and social anxiety symptoms on the other hand. Social distancing imposed by COVID‐19 related government restrictions may have impacted the current results. The findings suggest that emotional and social loneliness precede development of depressive symptoms, which in turn precedes development of social loneliness and social isolation, indicating a potential vicious cycle of social loneliness, social isolation and depressive symptoms in emerging adulthood. Social anxiety did not precede nor follow loneliness, depressive symptoms, or social isolation. The current study sheds more light on the temporal order of loneliness and psychopathological symptoms and hereby assists in identifying times where prevention and intervention efforts may be especially helpful to counter development of depression and loneliness.