bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic Immune‐Inflammation Indices Could Be Additional Predictive Markers for Cesarean Scar Pregnancy
Authors: Gao Jing , Jiang Nanyan , Chen Qi , Zhao Min , Tang Yunhui
Published: September 2024

Problem

Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) is characterized by a gestational sac fully or partially implanted in the scar from a previous cesarean section. Systemic immune‐inflammation indices (SIIs) have recently been discussed as additional diagnostic markers in placenta accreta and preeclampsia. CSP shares a similar pathogenesis with these diseases, suggesting that assessing the SIIs and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) could enhance additional predictability in diagnosing CSP.

Method of Study

In this study, we analyzed the complete blood counts between 264 women who were confirmed with CSP by ultrasound and 295 women who underwent elective termination.

Results

The mean counts of total white cells and neutrophils were significantly higher, whereas the counts of monocytes, lymphocytes, and platelets were significantly lower in the CSP group compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Additionally, the SII, systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), or NLR was significantly higher in the CSP group compared to the control group (p < 0.0001). Given the limited effect of SII and SIRI on the increased risk of developing CSP, the optimal cut‐off value for NLR in predicting CSP was 2.87 (area under the curve [AUC] 0.656, 68% sensitivity). The optimal cut‐off value for NLR in predicting type 2 CSP was 2.91 (AUC 0.690, 71% sensitivity).

Conclusions

Although ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging images are a gold standard for visualizing the gestational sac's location in the diagnosis of CSP, assessing peripheral blood tests is cost‐effective, and NLR may provide additional diagnosis value for CSP.
Vaginal dinoprostone insert compared with two different oral misoprostol regimens for labor induction in nulliparous and multiparous women
Authors: Erhardt Damaris , Radan Anda‐Petronela , Mathis Jérôme , Surbek Daniel
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Labor induction exhibits considerable variations in protocols and medication regimens. Limited studies compare vaginal dinoprostone inserts with different oral misoprostol dosages, considering parity influence. This study explores the distinctions among 10 mg vaginal dinoprostone inserts and oral misoprostol 25 μg every 2 and every 4 h for labor induction, stratified by parity.

Material and Methods

This retrospective cohort study involved 607 participants across two hospitals. The primary outcome, time from induction to delivery, and secondary outcomes, including mode of delivery and maternal and fetal safety, were assessed.

Results

Patient characteristics revealed differences in indication for labor induction, with the dinoprostone cohort having fewer post‐term and premature rupture of membranes cases but more intrauterine growth restriction/small‐for‐gestational age. Both oral misoprostol regimens showed a shorter time to delivery interval compared to the dinoprostone cohort (median: 1380 min [IQR 1381.0] and 1127.0 min [IQR 1214.0] vs 1631.5 [IQR 1736.2], p < 0.001 and p = 0.014). Only the difference between oral misoprostol q2h and vaginal dinoprostone remained significant for nulliparous but not multiparous women, losing significance over all the population after adjusting for confounding factors. The proportion of women giving birth within 24 h did not significantly differ between misoprostol q2h and dinoprostone after adjusting for confounders. When comparing misoprostol q4h with dinoprostone after confounder adjustment, an increased time to delivery interval for misoprostol q4h was found (p = 0.001). Both oral misoprostol regimens exhibited fewer meconium‐stained liquor (miso q4h: OR 0.44, miso q2h: OR 0.34) and cesarean sections (miso q4h: OR 0.48, miso q2h: OR 0.53) compared to dinoprostone, even after adjustment for confounders.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that oral misoprostol 25 μg q4h is less effective than 10 mg vaginal dinoprostone for labor induction if parity and indication for induction are adjusted for, particularly in multiparous women. In terms of side effects, oral misoprostol regimens seem superior to vaginal dinoprostone. Our data support the individualized use of different agents for labor induction according to parity, indication for induction, bishop score, and women's preference.
Vakumuni vuku ni vanua (gathering the wisdom of the land): An Indigenous fieldwork research methodology in Fiji
Authors: Jekope Ramala Maiono , Ruwhiu Diane
Published: September 2024

One of the persistent challenges for researchers engaging with Indigenous communities is ensuring they communicate with the right individuals to obtain the right information. In this article, I advocate for the use of Vakumuni vuku ni vanua (gathering wisdom of the land), incorporating the 3D veivosaki (meaningful conversation) and Butu vanua (transcendence walk). These methods present culturally appropriate techniques for fieldwork research in Fiji. This strategic integration aims to streamline the collection of relevant data, recognising the essential role Indigenous knowledge holders serve as guardians of the knowledge being explored. By adopting this thoughtful approach, the knowledge‐gathering process honours the independence and esteem of Indigenous communities. These innovative methods are deeply rooted in Indigenous values like veiwekani (relationship), veinanumi (reciprocity) and veimaroroi (stewardship), which hold significant importance for Indigenous people.
Concept article: Antidepressant‐induced destabilization in bipolar illness mediated by serotonin 3 receptor (5HT3)
Authors: Aydin Irem Hacisalihoglu , El‐Mallakh Rif S.
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Antidepressants used by patients with bipolar disorder have been associated with destabilization with an increase in mania, depression, and cycling. The most commonly proposed mechanism, that antidepressants ‘overshoot’ their antidepressant effect to create a manic or mixed state, is unlikely since antidepressants have actually been found to be ineffective in treating bipolar depression. Beginning with known bipolar‐specific pathophysiologic abnormalities provides the greatest likelihood of insight.

Methods

PubMed was queried with ‘bipolar’, ‘sodium’, ‘intracellular sodium’, ‘serotonin 3’, ‘5HT3’, ‘5‐hydroxytryptamine type 3 receptors’, and ‘antidepressant’ either individually or in combination.

Results

Pathologic mood states (both mania and depression) are associated with increased intracellular sodium (Na) concentrations that depolarize the resting membrane potential to increase cellular excitability (mania) or cause depolarization block (depression). Stimulation of the serotonin (5HT) receptors depolarizes the post‐synaptic neuron. Stimulation of 5HT3 may be of particular importance since it is coupled to a cation channel that directly depolarizes the membrane. These effects directly impact the physiology of patients with bipolar disorder to alter neuronal excitability in a fashion that worsens both mania and depression.

Proposed Concept

The most consistently observed biological abnormality in individuals going through mania or bipolar depression involves a decline in Na pump activity, with consequent elevation of intracellular Na levels. Antidepressant treatment potentiates this, particularly by activation of 5HT3. This hypothesis can be tested by coadministering a 5HT3 antagonist (e.g., vortioxetine or ondansetron) to achieve blockade of that receptor while treating bipolar depression with a serotoninergic antidepressant.
GLT‐1 downregulation in hippocampal astrocytes induced by type 2 diabetes contributes to postoperative cognitive dysfunction in adult mice
Authors: Jiao Xin‐Hao , Wan Jie , Wu Wei‐Feng , Ma Lin‐Hui , Chen Chen , Dong Wei , Liu Yi‐Qi , Jin Chun‐Hui , Sun Ao , Zhou Yue , Li Zi‐Yi , Liu Qiang , Wu Yu‐Qing , Zhou Cheng‐Hua
Published: September 2024

Aims

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is related to an increased risk of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD), which may be caused by neuronal hyperexcitability. Astrocyte glutamate transporter 1 (GLT‐1) plays a crucial role in regulating neuron excitability. We investigated if T2DM would magnify the increased neuronal excitability induced by anesthesia/surgery (A/S) and lead to POCD in young adult mice, and if so, determined whether these effects were associated with GLT‐1 expression.

Methods

T2DM model was induced by high fat diet (HFD) and injecting STZ. Then, we evaluated the spatial learning and memory of T2DM mice after A/S with the novel object recognition test (NORT) and object location test (OLT). Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to analyze the expression levels of GLT‐1 and neuronal excitability. Oxidative stress reaction and neuronal apoptosis were detected with SOD2 expression, MMP level, and Tunel staining. Hippocampal functional synaptic plasticity was assessed with long‐term potentiation (LTP). In the intervention study, we overexpressed hippocampal astrocyte GLT‐1 in GFAP‐Cre mice. Besides, AAV‐Camkllα‐hM4Di‐mCherry was injected to inhibit neuronal hyperexcitability in CA1 region.

Results

Our study found T2DM but not A/S reduced GLT‐1 expression in hippocampal astrocytes. Interestingly, GLT‐1 deficiency alone couldn't lead to cognitive decline, but the downregulation of GLT‐1 in T2DM mice obviously enhanced increased hippocampal glutamatergic neuron excitability induced by A/S. The hyperexcitability caused neuronal apoptosis and cognitive impairment. Overexpression of GLT‐1 rescued postoperative cognitive dysfunction, glutamatergic neuron hyperexcitability, oxidative stress reaction, and apoptosis in hippocampus. Moreover, chemogenetic inhibition of hippocampal glutamatergic neurons reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis and alleviated postoperative cognitive dysfunction.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the adult mice with type 2 diabetes are at an increased risk of developing POCD, perhaps due to the downregulation of GLT‐1 in hippocampal astrocytes, which enhances increased glutamatergic neuron excitability induced by A/S and leads to oxidative stress reaction, and neuronal apoptosis.
Strategy and Outcomes of Cardiac Surgery in Patients With Cirrhosis: Comprehensive Approach With Liver Transplant Program
Authors: Shimamura Junichi , Okumura Kenji , Misawa Ryosuke , Bodin Roxana , Nishida Seigo , Tavolacci Sooyun , Malekan Ramin , Lansman Steven , Spielvogel David , Ohira Suguru
Published: September 2024

Background

Cardiac surgery is considered a contraindication in patients with advanced liver cirrhosis (LC) due to increased mortality and morbidity. There are limited data on the treatment strategy and management of this population. We aimed to present our strategy and evaluate the clinical outcome of cardiac surgery in patients with LC.

Methods

Our strategy was (i) to list patients for liver transplant (LT) at the time of cardiac surgery; (ii) to maintain high cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) flow (index up to 3.0 L/min/m2) based on hyper‐dynamic states due to LC; and (iii) to proceed to LT if patients’ liver function deteriorated with an increasing model for end‐stage liver disease Na (MELD‐Na) score after cardiac surgery. Thirteen patients (12 male and 1 female [mean age, 63.0]) with LC who underwent cardiac surgery between 2017 and 2024 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Six patients were listed for LT. Indications for cardiac surgery included coronary artery disease (N = 7), endocarditis (N = 2), and tricuspid regurgitation (N = 1), tricuspid stenosis (N = 1), mitral regurgitation (N = 1), and hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (N = 1). The Child–Pugh score was A in five, B in six, and C in one patient. The procedure included coronary artery bypass grafting (N = 6), single valve surgery (mitral valve [N = 2] and tricuspid valve [N = 1]), concomitant aortic and tricuspid valve surgery (N = 2), and septal myectomy (N = 1). Two patients had a history of previous sternotomy. The perfusion index during CPB was 3.1 ± 0.5 L/min/m2. Postoperative complications include pleural effusion (N = 6), bleeding events (N = 3), acute kidney injury (N = 1), respiratory failure requiring tracheostomy (N = 2), tamponade (N = 1), and sternal infection (N = 1). There was no in‐hospital death. There was one remote death due to COVID‐19 complication. Preoperative and postoperative highest MELD‐Na score among listed patients was 15.8 ± 5.1 and 19.3 ± 5.3, respectively. Five patients underwent LT (1, 5, 8, 16, and 24 months following cardiac surgery) and one patient remains on the list. Survival rates at 1 and 3 years are 100% and 75.0%, respectively.

Conclusion

Cardiac surgery maintaining high CPB flow with LT backup is a feasible strategy in an otherwise inoperable patient population with an acceptable early and midterm survival when performed in a center with an experienced cardiac surgery and LT program.
An announcement effect in reverse? Evidence from cash‐settled convertible bonds
Authors: Gatti Stefano , Sperl Ulrich
Published: September 2024

We analyze the trading activity of underlying shares at the maturity of convertible bonds with cash‐settlement provisions. Our findings indicate that arbitrageurs and option dealers engage in systematic trading that leads to an increase in trading volumes and changes in the level of short interest in the affected underlying equities. We find significantly positive abnormal returns for the affected stocks if convertible bond‐related trading is not contaminated by opposing option‐related flows. This finding supports the notion that arbitrageurs can create a substantial market impact on shares underlying convertible bonds even without any relevant news dissemination.
Injury to the palmar supporting structures of the fetlock alters limb stiffness and fetlock angle
Authors: Hanousek Katherine , Fiske‐Jackson Andrew , O'Leary Lauren , Smith Roger K. W.
Published: September 2024

Background

In vivo measurement of limb stiffness and conformation provides a non‐invasive proxy assessment of superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and suspensory ligament (SL) function. Here, we compared it in fore and hindlimbs and after injury.

Objectives

To compare the limb stiffness and conformation in forelimbs and hindlimbs, changes with age, and following injury to the SDFT and SL.

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Limb stiffness was calculated using floor scales and an electrogoniometer taped to the dorsal fetlock. The fetlock angle and weight were simultaneously recorded five times with the limb weight‐bearing and when the opposite limb was picked up (increased load). Limb stiffness of both limbs was calculated from the gradient of the regression line of angle versus load. Fetlock angle when the weight was zero was extrapolated from the graph and used as a measure of conformation. Limb stiffness was measured in uninjured forelimbs (n = 42 limbs), hindlimbs (n = 19 limbs), forelimbs with SDFT injury (n = 18) and hindlimbs with SL injury (n = 5).

Results

Limb stiffness correlated with weight in forelimbs as shown previously (p < 0.001) but also in hindlimbs (p = 0.006). When normalised to the horse's weight (503 kg, IQR 471.5–560), forelimb stiffness was significantly higher (22.3 [±4.5] × 10−3 degree−1) than for the hindlimb (16.4 [±4.0] × 10−3 degree−1; p < 0.001). While there were no significant differences between forelimb and hindlimb conformation in unaffected or SDFT injury, both limb stiffness and conformation was significantly greater in limbs with SL injury (p = 0.009 and p = 0.002, respectively).

Main limitations

Small sample size, lack of clinical data including lameness and quantification of injuries.

Conclusions

Injury to the forelimb SDFT does not alter limb stiffness or conformation in the long‐term, while hindlimb SL injury simultaneously increases limb stiffness and fetlock angle, suggesting an increase in SL length following injury.
Corrosion fatigue cracking behaviors of Q690qE high‐strength bridge steel as a weld joint in simulated marine environment
Authors: Lu Cuiping , Yao Qiong , Li Ningning , Sun Liyang , Dai Wenhe , Zhang Chuang , Ma Hongchi
Published: September 2024

Corrosion fatigue behavior and mechanism of the weld joint of Q690qE high‐strength bridge steel was investigated in a simulated marine environment. It reveals the sub‐critical heat‐affected zone (SCHAZ) and coarse‐grained heat‐affected zone (CGHAZ) are the most vulnerable sites to corrosion fatigue cracking. The CGHAZ of the Q690qE steel weld joint was prone to corrosion fatigue initiation mainly because of micro‐galvanic corrosion between CGHAZ and weld metal (WM). The corrosion fatigue failure in SCHAZ mainly resulted from local stress/strain concentration due to weld softening. The final fracture location was determined by the competition between these two effects.
Relationship Between Original Research Experiences and Evidence‐Based Practice Among Undergraduate Dental Hygiene Students
Authors: Partido Brian B. , Wesolek Michael , Lint Anna , Ford Carey
Published: September 2024

Objectives

For the dental hygiene profession, a need exists to engage students in research experiences as undergraduate students to foster interest in research and improve the implementation of evidence‐based practice. The purpose was to explore the relationships between original research experiences and evidence‐based practice among undergraduate dental hygiene students.

Methods

This quantitative survey research study of undergraduate dental hygiene students in the USA was conducted in 2021. Original research experience was measured using the Wessex Research Network (WReN) spider instrument and evidence‐based practice was measured using the Knowledge, Attitudes, Access and Confidence Evaluation (KACE) instrument. Invitation e‐mails were sent to the directors of US entry‐level dental hygiene programs to forward the survey e‐mail message to students in the last semester of their dental hygiene programs. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis and multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

A total of 128 responses were analysed. The foundational knowledge domain of research experience was found to be a significant predictor of evidence‐based practice and the mediators of evidence‐based knowledge, evidence‐based attitudes, evidence‐based access and evidence‐based confidence.

Conclusion

Research experience was found to be a significant predictor of Evidence‐Based Practice. Engaging undergraduate dental hygiene students in research opportunities may prepare students for the clinical application of evidence‐based practice and original research projects.
Active deprescribing attitudes and practices in a large regional tertiary health service: a mixed methods study
Authors: Robinson Michael , Vangaveti Venkat , Edelman Alexandra , Mallett Andrew J.
Published: September 2024

In this pilot study, we explored current attitudes and deprescribing practices of clinicians in a large regional health service through a mixed methods approach. Respondents included doctors, pharmacists and nurse practitioners, who outlined three themes including professional and organisational contexts, disconnect between goals and practices and factors influencing deprescribing.
Response of Antioxidant Enzymes of Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to Shallow and Saline Groundwater Depths
Authors: Kiremit Mehmet Sait , Arslan Hakan
Published: September 2024

Antioxidant enzymes in plants are critical for protection against oxidative stress and for the overall health and resilience of plant systems. However, antioxidant responses of plants grown in shallow and saline groundwater are poorly understood. Therefore, understanding the biochemical responses of plants to shallow groundwater significantly affects food security and environmental conservation. With this aim, the present work was carried out for 2 years in drainable lysimeters to assess the effects of four different groundwater salinities (0.38, 2.0, 4.0 and 8.0 dS m−1) on the temporal changes in antioxidant enzymatic activity in wheat plants under three different groundwater depths (30, 55 and 80 cm). Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione S‐transferase (GST) and catalase (CAT) activities varied significantly based on groundwater depth and salinity. CAT and GST enzyme levels increased curvilinearly with rising groundwater depth and salinity. Conversely, the GR enzyme activity showed no significant change with groundwater depths but increased linearly with higher salinity. SOD enzyme activity notably increased at a groundwater depth of 30 cm but decreased at a depth of 80 cm. Moreover, the peak activity of the GR enzyme was observed at a 6 dS m−1 groundwater salinity under groundwater depths. Additionally, the GST and CAT enzyme activities were inhibited more when the groundwater depth was <55 cm and the groundwater salinity was >4.20 dS m−1. Finally, identifying the peak levels of antioxidant enzymes could potentially serve as an indicator for determining the optimal timing for applying stress mitigation methods in areas with shallow and saline groundwater.
Bone marrow stromal and anterior cruciate ligament remnant cell co‐culture‐derived extracellular vesicles promote cell activity in both cell types
Authors: Lin Sung‐Yen , Wu Shun Cheng , Liu Zi‐Miao , Chou Paul Pei‐Hsi , Zhao Chunfeng , Ho Mei‐Ling , Lu Cheng‐Chang
Published: September 2024

The significance of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) remnants during reconstruction remains unclear. Co‐culturing ACL remnant cells and bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) may reduce apoptosis and enhance hamstring tendon activity. This study investigated whether extracellular vesicles (EVs), which facilitate cell–cell interactions, act as the active components, improving graft maturation in this co‐culture. The effects of EVs on cell viability, proliferation, migration and gene expression in the rabbit ACL remnant cells and BMSCs were assessed using control (BMSC‐only culture), co‐culture (ACL remnant cells and BMSCs, CM) and co‐culture without EVs (CM ∆ EVs) media. EVs were isolated from control (BMSC‐EV) and co‐culture (CM‐EV) media and characterized. CM significantly enhanced the proliferation, migration and expression of transforming growth factor (TGF‐β)‐, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐, collagen synthesis‐ and tenogenesis‐related genes. However, CM‐induced effects were reversed by the CM ∆ EVs treatment. CM‐EV treatment exhibited higher potential to enhance proliferation, migration and gene expression in the ACL remnant cells and BMSCs than BMSC‐EV and non‐EV treatments. In conclusion, EVs, secreted under the coexistence of ACL remnant cells and BMSCs, primarily increase the cell viability, proliferation, migration and gene expression of collagen synthesis‐, TGF‐β‐, VEGF‐ and tenogenesis‐related genes in both cell types.
Clinical decision‐making process and distributive justice: The mediating role of economic analysis. Empirical evidence from Italy
Authors: Arcari Anna , Picozzi Mario , Pistoni Anna , Battisti Davide , Ceruti Silvia
Published: September 2024

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has not only tested the resilience of public health systems but also underscored the criticality of allocative choices on health resources. These choices, however, are not confined to health emergencies but are integral to public health decisions, which inherently grapple with limited resources. In this context, physicians play a pivotal role as the architects of clinical actions in various scenarios. Therefore, doctors are called upon to make their decisions by considering not only the criteria of clinical appropriateness but also the ethical aspects linked, in particular, to the principle of justice. Indeed, the assessment of the effectiveness of a treatment for a particular patient must be balanced against criteria of equity and justice for the whole. To be fully applied, the principle of justice presupposes the use of economic evaluation techniques designed to drive the organisation decisions by effectiveness and efficiency.

Methods

The present paper aims to empirically analyse whether and to what extent economic evaluation is known and used by doctors in healthcare decision‐making and, therefore, what the most widespread approaches are used in such processes.

In particular, this paper intends to present the results of an empirical study on a sample of doctors registered with the Order of Physicians in Lombardy (Italy), one of the areas most affected by the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Results

The research reveals a particular awareness of the criticality of allocation issues accompanied by a lack of knowledge of the economic evaluation techniques or, more broadly, by an almost total disuse of financial criteria. The main reasons are doctors’ need for more knowledge of these tools and insufficient availability of economic information at the country system level.

Conclusion

In the conclusion, we propose some suggestions to facilitate the transition to more current decision‐making models consistent with the characteristics of more advanced national healthcare contexts.
Gone with the flow: Whitefish egg drift in relation to substrate coarseness under a range of flow velocities
Authors: Lehtonen Topi K. , Veneranta Lari
Published: September 2024

Most major rivers in Europe have been dammed for hydropower or other purposes. Such river alterations have decimated natural reproduction of many migratory fish species, including that of the anadromous European whitefish, Coregonus lavaretus, which is now maintained by extensive stocking programmes. In addition to stocking, limited natural reproduction may occur downstream of dams, where peak flow bouts from the dams threaten to flush the eggs into unsuitable habitats. Here, we assessed the effects of water flow velocity and substrate coarseness on downstream drift of whitefish eggs under laboratory conditions. The experiment's two different gravel substrates retained eggs better than cobble or sand substrates; the water velocity needed for notable egg drift was higher for the gravel substrates. The results indicate that egg drift is one of the factors that should be considered when evaluating the effects of hydropower plant operations. Moreover, measures mitigating the effects of the artificial flow regimes should incorporate the type and coarseness of the riverbed's substrate.
Laterality in tactile working memory: The one‐hand version of the Tactual Span
Authors: Heled Eyal
Published: September 2024

The Tactual Span assesses tactile working memory (WM) using both hands while applying forward and backward conditions. The study objectives were to validate a one‐hand version of the Tactual Span and to evaluate WM laterality in the tactile modality. Of the 145 participants, 80 performed the Tactual Span with their right hand, and 65 performed it with their left hand. Moreover, all participants performed two span tasks in the visuo‐spatial and auditory modalities, each encompassing forward and backward conditions. Results revealed adequate Cronbach's alpha values for each hand in both conditions of the Tactual Span, along with a positive correlation between forward and backward conditions in each hand. However, overall performance on the Tactual Span was poorer compared to performance on the Auditory and Visuo‐spatial Spans. Furthermore, in the forward condition, there was a correlation between the Auditory Span and the Tactual Span, but only for the right hand. In the backward condition, the Auditory Span correlated with the Tactual Span in both hands. The findings indicate that there is no effect of hand laterality in tactile WM, showing the two hands are related to each other in their WM function. Additionally, the one‐hand version of the Tactual Span is deemed useful for evaluating tactile WM and can therefore be used in empirical and clinical settings for neuropsychological assessment purposes.
The bZIP Transcription Factor UvbZIP14 Regulates Vegetative Growth, Conidiation and Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Ustilaginoidea virens
Authors: Zhang Han , Qu Jinsong , Liu Lianmeng , Yin Weixiao , Luo Chaoxi
Published: September 2024

bZIP transcription factors play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes in phytopathogens. Ustilaginoidea virens is known to possess 28 bZIP transcription factors; however, their biological functions remain unexplored. In this study, the function of UvbZIP14 in U. virens was investigated. The expression levels of UvbZIP14 were found to be up‐regulated after rice inoculation with U. virens. The knockout mutants and complemented strains of UvbZIP14 were generated and characterised. The knockout mutants display increased growth and decreased conidiation. Compared with the wild‐type strain, the knockout mutants exhibit reduced sensitivity to NaCl and sorbitol but increased sensitivity to CFW. There was no significant difference in the number of false smut balls in rice between the knockout and wild‐type strains. These results findings highlight the significant role of UvbZIP14 in regulating vegetative growth, conidiation and tolerance to abiotic stress in U. virens.
Melatonin Regulates Neuronal Synaptic Plasticity in the Supramammillary Nucleus and Attenuates Methamphetamine‐Induced Conditioned Place Preference and Sensitization in Mice
Authors: Ren Qingyu , Han Weikai , Yue Yanan , Tang Yaqi , Yue Qingwei , Comai Stefano , Sun Jinhao
Published: September 2024

Methamphetamine (METH) is an addictive drug that threatens human health. The supramammillary nucleus (SuM) and its neural circuits play key roles in the regulation of spatial memory retrieval, and hippocampal contextual or social memory. Melatonin (MLT), a pineal hormone, can regulate hypothalamic‐neurohypophysial activity. Our previous study showed that MLT attenuates METH‐induced locomotor sensitization. However, whether MLT regulates SuM function and participates in METH‐induced contextual memory retrieval remains unclear. Using a mouse model of METH‐conditioned place preference (CPP) and sensitization, we found that METH activated c‐Fos expression and elevated calcium (Ca²⁺) levels in SuM neurons. Chemogenetic inhibition of SuM attenuates CPP and sensitization. Pretreatment with MLT decreased c‐Fos expression and Ca2+ levels in the SuM and reversed METH‐induced addictive behavior, effects that were blocked with the selective MT2 receptors antagonist 4P‐PDOT and the MT1 receptors antagonist S26131. Furthermore, MLT reduced SuM synaptic plasticity, glutamate (Glu) release, and neuronal oscillations caused by METH, which were blocked by 4P‐PDOT. In conclusion, our data revealed that MLT regulates neuronal synaptic plasticity in the SuM, likely through the MLT receptors (MTs), and plays a role in modulating METH‐addictive behavior.
Line‐item vetoes as a coordination mechanism
Authors: Palanza Valeria , Sin Gisela , Reynolds Evangeline
Published: September 2024

Although presidential vetoes are central to the legislative process, the role of total versus line item vetoes (LIV) is largely unclear. While total vetoes are a sign of conflict between the branches, as the literature has emphasized, we argue that LIV function as a negative agenda setting mechanism that enables presidents to coordinate within their coalition. To test our argument, we use an original dataset on all statutes and executive decrees approved and vetoed in Brazil for the period 1988–2010. In both, statutes and decrees, we show that while total vetoes occur when conflict between branches is stronger, LIV happen when such conflict is minimal and presidents have tight control over their coalition. The results are robust across dependent variables, model specifications, and estimation strategies. Our findings highlight that while the total veto is a blunt bargaining mechanism, the LIV provides a scalpel, a much finer tool that helps presidents manage and sustain their congressional coalition.
Nitrogen nutrition effects on δ13C of plant respired CO2 are mostly caused by concurrent changes in organic acid utilisation and remobilisation
Authors: Xia Yang , Lalande Julie , Badeck Franz‐W. , Girardin Cyril , Bathellier Camille , Gleixner Gerd , Werner Roland A. , Ghiasi Shiva , Faucon Mélodie , Cosnier Karen , Fresneau Chantal , Tcherkez Guillaume , Ghashghaie Jaleh
Published: September 2024

Nitrogen (N) nutrition impacts on primary carbon metabolism and can lead to changes in δ13C of respired CO2. However, uncertainty remains as to whether (1) the effect of N nutrition is observed in all species, (2) N source also impacts on respired CO2 in roots and (3) a metabolic model can be constructed to predict δ13C of respired CO2 under different N sources. Here, we carried out isotopic measurements of respired CO2 and various metabolites using two species (spinach, French bean) grown under different NH4+:NO3− ratios. Both species showed a similar pattern, with a progressive 13C‐depletion in leaf‐respired CO2 as the ammonium proportion increased, while δ13C in root‐respired CO2 showed little change. Supervised multivariate analysis showed that δ13C of respired CO2 was mostly determined by organic acid (malate, citrate) metabolism, in both leaves and roots. We then took advantage of nonstationary, two‐pool modelling that explained 73% of variance in δ13C in respired CO2. It demonstrates the critical role of the balance between the utilisation of respiratory intermediates and the remobilisation of stored organic acids, regardless of anaplerotic bicarbonate fixation by phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase and the organ considered.
Exposure of Arabidopsis thaliana Mutants to Genotoxic Stress Provides New Insights for the Involvement of TDP1α and TDP1β genes in DNA‐Damage Response
Authors: Pagano Paola , Bertoncini Anna , Pagano Andrea , Nisa Maher‐Un , Raynaud Cécile , Balestrazzi Alma , Macovei Anca
Published: September 2024

Genotoxic stress activates the DNA‐damage response (DDR) signalling cascades responsible for maintaining genome integrity. Downstream DNA repair pathways include the tyrosyl‐DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (TDP1) enzyme that hydrolyses the phosphodiester bond between the tyrosine of topoisomerase I (TopI) and 3′‐phosphate of DNA. The plant TDP1 subfamily contains the canonical TDP1α gene and the TDP1β gene whose functions are not fully elucidated. The current study proposes to investigate the involvement of TDP1 genes in DDR‐related processes by using Arabidopsis thaliana mutants treated with genotoxic agents. The phenotypic and molecular characterization of tdp1α, tdp1β and tdp1α/β mutants treated with cisplatin (CIS), curcumin (CUR), NSC120686 (NSC), zeocin (ZEO), and camptothecin (CPT), evidenced that while tdp1β was highly sensitive to CIS and CPT, tdp1α was more sensitive to NSC. Gene expression analyses showing upregulation of the TDP2 gene in the double mutant indicate the presence of compensatory mechanisms. The downregulation of POL2A gene in the tdp1β mutant along with the upregulation of the TDP1β gene in pol2a mutants, together with its sensitivity to replication inhibitors (CIS, CTP), point towards a function of this gene in the response to replication stress. Therefore, this study brings novel information relative to the activity of TDP1 genes in plants.
Current Advances in the Black Tiger Shrimp Penaeus monodon Culture: A Review
Authors: Waiho Khor , Ling Yang , Ikhwanuddin Mhd , Shu‐Chien Alexander Chong , Afiqah‐Aleng Nor , Wang Youji , Hu Menghong , Liew Honjung , Kasan Nor Azman , Peh Jia Hui , Fazhan Hanafiah
Published: September 2024

The increasing high‐end market demand for the black tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon has brought tremendous industry opportunities. Although the industry has tried its best to increase production, according to the report data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), annual global production has shown no significant upward trend over the past decade. Besides that, newly implemented policies such as seafood safety and food security negatively impacted the industry and reduced production. However, P. monodon cultivation is still promising due to its larger body size and higher market acceptance as a premium product. Over the years, numerous studies have been conducted to increase the production of P. monodon by optimizing its culture conditions, implementing new culture system, increasing disease resistance to disease such as WSSV, AHPND, WFD, implementation of pre‐ and probiotics in feed, and selective breeding programs to increase genetic diversity and population of P. monodon broodstock. This review provides an overview of the current advances in P. monodon broodstock cultivation, thereby providing an essential baseline for P. monodon aquaculture. Areas needing urgent research focus are also highlighted. Future research should take great strides and take into account the impact of future climate change scenario during P. monodon culture and optimization, and increase biosecurity measures to prevent its introduction as an alien species in wild settings.
Excruciating existential suffering and complicated grief: The essence of surviving the suicide of a son or daughter
Authors: Bjornsdottir E. A. , Sigurdardottir S. , Halldorsdottir S.
Published: September 2024

Background

Suicide is the fourth most common cause of death for the 15–29 age group. Research on the impact of suicide on parents is scarce and, therefore, poorly understood.

Aim

To explore parents' experiences who have lost a son or a daughter due to suicide and their experience of the services available to them.

Methods

This phenomenological study involved 1–2 interviews with ten parents aged 40–65, seven mothers and three fathers in all 13 interviews. The age range of their sons and daughters was 17–37 years when they died.

Results

For the parents, losing a son or a daughter to suicide is an overwhelming life experience characterised by Excruciating existential suffering and complicated grief where they are confronted with deep meaning‐making and existential questions without answers since the person who can answer most of them is no longer alive. They, therefore, felt stuck in their grief for up to 4 years. The initial experience was an immense paralysing shock and sense of unreality. The subsequent period was a blur, and they were numb. Then, their psyche and bodies collapsed, and for a long time, they felt no grief processing was taking place. They sorely needed long‐term professional trauma‐informed support and felt that, in too many cases, they had to reach out for help themselves. They would have liked to see the healthcare system embrace them with more open arms, offer help and be met with information and individualised support.

Conclusions

Standard operating procedures must be installed to support suicide‐bereaved parents better. Long‐term professional support and trauma‐focused care are required following such major trauma, and providing such support could help to reduce their adverse health impacts. Nurses and other health professionals must be better educated on existential suffering in this context.
Changes in soil organic carbon in native forests of Argentina related to land use change and environmental factors
Authors: Nosetto Marcelo Daniel , Balducci Ezequiel , Gaitán Juan , Mastrángelo Matías , Pastur Guillermo Martínez , Pinazo Martín , Villagra Pablo , Roglich Mariano Gonzalez , Kowaljow Esteban , Colazo Juan Cruz , Perez‐Harguindeguy Natalia , Naldini María Betania , de Dios Herrero Juan , Quiroga Alberto , Wilson Marcelo , Whitworth‐Hulse Juan , Jobbágy Esteban , Ballesteros Silvina , Polo Marina González , von Müller Axel , Cellini Juan Manuel , La Manna Ludmila , Rodríguez‐Souilla Julián , Manrique Silvina , Gasparri Ignacio , Blundo Cecilia , Von Wallis Alejandra , Meglioli Pablo , Labiano Marina Morsucci , Álvarez Leandro , Zalazar Gualberto , Villarino Sebastian , Sirimarco Ximena , Barral María Paula , Peri Pablo Luis
Published: September 2024

Native forests host important pools of soil organic carbon (SOC). This is a key element not only for ecosystem functioning but also for the global carbon cycle. Globally, and particularly in Argentina, native forests are being rapidly replaced by other land uses, raising questions about the impact of these transformations on SOC and its environmental controls. Based on the construction of the largest SOC database in Argentina to date, we investigated the patterns and controls of changes in SOC stocks associated with the replacement of native forests by other land uses. We constructed the database with a total of 818 sites with SOC data (0–30 cm depth), covering the main ecoregions, to which we added environmental information (e.g. satellite data, soil database and climate database), to study the environmental controls on SOC change after deforestation and on the original SOC content of native forests. Considering all ecoregions and all land use alternatives together, we found an average decrease in SOC stock of 18.2 Mg C ha−1, which represents a loss of more than a quarter of the original SOC stock of the native forest sites. A boosted regression tree explained 89% of the variation in SOC stock change and indicated that the initial forest SOC stock and the post‐deforestation land use were the most important variables explaining this variation (relative influence of 30.9% and 18.2%, respectively). The replacement of native forests by rainfed annual crops resulted in the largest decrease in SOC (−28 Mg C ha−1), which was twice as large as the decrease observed in rangelands (−14 Mg C ha−1). On the contrary, neither irrigated croplands nor tree plantations of fast‐growing species caused a decrease in SOC stocks (p > .10). Climate and soil texture had an indirect effect on SOC changes through a strong influence on the initial SOC stocks in native forests (p < .01). Our study highlighted the significant impact of land use change on SOC stocks, overshadowing other relevant environmental controls. Understanding how the SOC pool responds to land use change, environmental conditions and management practices is essential to increase the effectiveness of practices implemented to improve soil properties and mitigate climate change.
Maximum Self-Consumption Planning Framework Considering Energy Management System for Optimal Photovoltaic-Battery System in Distribution Network
Authors: M SAUD MUHAMMAD NOOR , MD RASID MADIHAH
Published: September 2024

Power production from photovoltaic (PV) has advanced as Renewable Energy Resources (RES) power technology and is now a worthwhile alternative to conventional power generating. To effectively stabilize the process of connecting to the grid and increase power controllability owing to changing PV power production, energy storage systems (ESS), with their flexible charging and discharging capabilities, are most often used to cooperate with RES power generation. However, ESS's rapid rate of charging and discharging might cause it to age more quickly than it should and reduce its lifespan. Therefore, this study proposed an effective planning framework of optimal penetration of PV-ESS system associated with effective energy management systems (EMS). The proposed framework, the optimal PV size, PV location and maximum State of Charge (SOCmax) are determined. The fixed minimum State of Charge (SOCmin) based on load conditions is applied to minimize the degradation while maximizing PV self-consumption. The result shows that when applying different SOCmin during at off-peak and peak time load demand, the degradation cost is reduced to 19.40%.
Regenerative Braking Conscious Rule-Based Energy Management Strategy for Semi-Active Hybrid Energy Storage Systems for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Al Takrouri Mohammad , Nik Rumzi Nik Idris  , Mohd Junaidi Abdul Aziz  , Razman Ayop  , Rozana Alik
Published: September 2024

Hybrid Energy Storage Systems (HESS) function as a solution to extend the lifespan of battery packs by maintaining a low charge/discharge rate. The integration of HESS in electric vehicles (EVs) is facilitated by supercapacitors (SC), known for their safe operation even under harsh conditions. The widely adopted rule-based power follower energy management strategy (EMS) is employed to control and restrict battery discharge within a defined range with SC support. Additionally, it charges the SC to accommodate regenerative energy, but it often neglects exploring the SC voltage set reference. This study investigates the SC voltage reference point and introduces a method to generate the reference point by equating the SC energy with the available kinetic energy in the moving vehicle. The proposed method was simulated and compared against the benchmark method using a portion of the medium segment Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) driving cycle. The results demonstrate a more stable discharge power for the battery bank, accompanied by improvements in battery voltage stability. The root mean square (RMS) battery current values were found to be 43.68 A and 42.92 A for the benchmarked and proposed methods, respectively, indicating a slight improvement of about 1%. Furthermore, the proposed method reduces the voltage deviation from 2.73% to about 2.57%, showcasing an additional positive outcome. These findings suggest that dynamically adjusting the SC voltage based on kinetic energy can enhance battery life and stability in EVs, offering a promising direction for future research and development of EMS.
An Integrated Hybrid Convolutional-Support Vector Machine (CSVM) Model with the CWT Method for Hearing Disorder Detection using AEP Signals
Authors: Islam Md Nahidul , Norizam Sulaiman  , Mahfuzah Mustafa
Published: September 2024

Hearing disorder is the most widespread sensory disability worldwide, impairing human communication and learning. An early and accurate hearing disorder detection system using an electroencephalogram (EEG) is the appropriate technique for dealing with this concern. The most significant modality for diagnosing hearing deficiency among EEG control signals is the auditory evoked potential (AEP), which is generated in the cortical region of the brain through auditory stimulus. This study aims to develop an efficient approach for detecting hearing disorders. For this purpose, this study has designed a hybrid model based on the convolutional operation of CNN and the SVM classifier. Initially, the CWT method was utilized to transform the raw AEP signals into time-frequency images. Then, the extracted features were classified using the proposed CSVM model. To test the robustness of the proposed model, this study also implemented a convolutional neural network (CNN) and support vector machine (SVM) with the same parameters. The experimental results with the hybrid CSVM model showed superior performance on the publicly available AEP dataset by achieving 94.48% testing accuracy, 96.40% precision, 92.96% recall, 94.65% F1 score, 88.95% Cohen Kappa score, which indicates that the proposed hybrid model could be used for early hearing disorder detection. Future enhancements will concentrate on identifying different hearing-signal-based data and the cloud-based, automated classification of AEP signals.