bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the interconnected effects of policy interventions on shrimp farming expansion and mangrove ecosystems through system dynamics
Authors: Anh Hoang Ha
Published: April 2024

Since the early 2000s, Ca Mau has experienced a rapid boom in shrimp farming, leading to the conversion of mangroves into shrimp ponds and impeding mangrove forest conservation. Despite its negative environmental impacts, shrimp aquaculture remains vital to Ca Mau’s economy by providing employment opportunities and contributing to the province’s gross domestic product. This study constructed a system dynamic model to analyze the complex system of shrimp aquaculture and mangrove forests under two development scenarios: the Business-as-Usual (BAU) scenario and the Policy scenario. In the BAU scenario, shrimp aquaculture will continue to expand, resulting in the conversion of more mangroves into ponds and a decrease in Ca Mau’s mangrove forest to 70,349 (± 888.801) hectares in 2050. However, this expansion will bolster rural employment and the province’s economy, generating 14,250 (± 0.336) billion VND (US$ 570 million) in 2050. Conversely, in the Policy scenario, stabilizing shrimp areas at 280,000 hectares as a policy target will regulate mangrove conversion, allowing mangroves to regenerate (77,016 (± 687.155) hectares in 2050) and enhancing carbon storage (65 × 106 (± 0.58 × 106) MgC in 2050). However, challenges arise in the Policy scenario concerning potential economic stagnation, conflicts with other development priorities, and rural job losses. Officials must consider more than just the area of shrimp ponds to achieve sustainable development. Effective land use strategies should be implemented to ensure equilibrium between shrimp aquaculture and mangroves. Diversifying economic activities and promoting alternative livelihoods can mitigate the dependence on shrimp farming and offset the effects of policy interventions.
Review of solar-enabled desalination and implications for zero-liquid-discharge applications
Authors: Fthenakis Vasilis , Xu Pei , Zhang Zhuoran , Sitterley Kurban , Lugo Abdiel , Wang Huiyao , Kuravi Sarada , Kota Krishna , Dani Nikhil , Atia Adam , Kurup Parthiv , Miara Ariel
Published: April 2024

The production of freshwater from desalinating abundant saline water on the planet is increasingly considered a climate change adaptation measure. Yet, there are challenges associated with the high cost, intensive energy demand, and environmental implications of desalination. Effective integration of solar energy generation and freshwater production can address both issues. This review article highlights recent key advances in such integration achieved in a joint-research university-national laboratory partnership under the auspices of the United States Department of Energy and parallel efforts worldwide. First, an overview of current and emerging desalination technologies and associated pretreatment, brine treatment, and valorization technologies that together can result in zero-liquid-discharge systems is presented, and their technological readiness levels are evaluated. Then, advanced modeling techniques and new software platforms that enable optimization of solar-desalination applications with the dual objective of cost and environmental impact minimization are discussed.
Materials and manufacturing technology for high reliability rigid-flex multilayer PCB for space 3D-electronics packaging
Authors: Hanumanth Rao C , Singh Amrendra Pratap , Varaprasad B K S V L , R Selvi , Venkata Govinda Rao D , Goel Sanket
Published: April 2024

Rigid-flex Multilayer PCB Technology enables the elimination of several connectors and bulky harness for interconnecting functional electronic systems. This minimizes packaging complexity and reduces performance degradation at high frequencies with an added advantage of reduced weight and volume in high-reliability space electronic packages. Here, only thermo-mechanically stable adhesiveless all polyimide flexible laminate cores and no-flow glass-polyimide prepregs are employed. To overcome the manufacturing issues like registration, coverlay protrusion into the rigid portions, and residual copper deposition at the intersections of flexible and rigid portions; a novel manufacturing process technology is proposed here. The technology has been successfully devised after choosing the most appropriate flexible, rigid, and low-flow prepreg materials. Herein, for the realization of rigid-flex multilayer PCB technology with 2-layers of flex and 8-layers of rigid to meet the functional requirements of the board is presented. The critical registration issues associated with the dissimilar rigid and flexible substrates are successfully addressed to achieve best-fit registration and obtain minimum annular rings of 50 μm in all the inner layers for high reliability. Experimental results manifest that incorporating rigid-flex multilayer PCB technology dramatically reduces weight (>30%) and volume (∼40%) to high-reliability space electronics 3D packaging for static and dynamic applications.
Effect of positioning of shear walls in a multi-storied building on response to earthquake
Authors: Islam Md. Mohayminul , Mofiz Syed Abdul
Published: April 2024

Seismic events are a matter of concern for structural engineers because of their devastating effects. These events are neither can be predicted. nor can be prevented. To mitigate its impacts on the structures several measures are taken. But none of them can be treated as 100% effective, there is a lot of scope for improvement. In this study, the dynamic behavior of structures under seismic loading was investigated, focusing on the combined influence of geometric shapes, different types of shear walls, and their position on lateral displacement and drift. Specifically, four different geometric shapes of plans of identical floor areas were taken for this study. Two types of shear walls, oupled shear walls, and core shear walls were placed in four different positions. The Static Equivalent Load method to assess the seismic response of structures is employed in this study, following the guidelines given in the Bangladesh National Building Code 2006 using ETABS software. Key findings of the study are the efficacy of shear walls in mitigating lateral displacement. The optimum results were achieved for central positions and core wall configurations. The study discloses the significance of different geometric shapes on seismic responses. This study provides a perception of effective seismic retrofitting strategies.
Positive epidemiology, revisited: the case for centering human rights and economic justice
Authors: Qureshi Farah , Denckla Christy , Boehm Julia K
Published: April 2024

In recent years, a growing body of research in positive epidemiology has sought to expand the traditional focus of epidemiologic research beyond risk factors for disease and towards a more holistic understanding of health that includes the study of positive assets that shape well-being more broadly. While this paradigm shift holds great promise for transforming people’s lives for the better, it is also critiqued for showcasing decontextualized perspectives that could cause great harm to the public’s health if translated uncritically into population-based interventions. In this commentary, we argue for orienting positive epidemiology within a human rights and economic justice framework to mitigate this threat, and we discuss two examples of previously proposed health assets (religious involvement and marriage) that demonstrate the urgent need for positive epidemiologic research to center health equity. Finally, to advance the field, we provide recommendations for how future research can address shortcomings of the extant literature by moving from individual-level to societal-level applications. In doing so, we believe that positive epidemiology can be transformed into a powerful force for health equity.

This article is part of a Special Collection on Mental Health.
Lrp13a and Lrp13b serve as vitellogenin receptors in the ovary of zebrafish
Authors: Liu Zhiquan , Zhang Nan , Wang Chuangxin , Shi Lina , Hu Yixuan , Wang Yamei , Li Jianzhen
Published: April 2024

In oviparous animals, egg yolk is largely derived from vitellogenin, which is taken up from the maternal circulation by the growing oocytes via the vitellogenin receptor. Recently, a novel member of the lipoprotein receptor superfamily termed low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 13 was identified and proposed as a candidate of vitellogenin receptor in oviparous animals. However, the roles of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 13 in vitellogenesis are still poorly defined. Here, we investigated the expression, vitellogenin-binding properties, and function of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 13 in zebrafish. Two different lrp13 genes termed lrp13a and lrp13b were found in zebrafish. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed both lrp13s to be predominantly expressed in zebrafish ovary, and in situ hybridization detected both lrp13s transcripts in the ooplasm of early stage oocytes. Two yeast hybrid studies showed that among eight vitellogenins of zebrafish, Vtg1, 2, and 3 bind to Lrp13a, while Vtg1, 2, and 5 bind to Lrp13b. We created zebrafish lrp13a and lrp13b mutant lines using CRISPR/Cas9. Knockout of lrp13a leads to a male-biased sex ratio and decreased diameter of embryo yolk, while knockout of lrp13b and double knockout of lrp13a and lrp13b leads to the delay of vitellogenesis, followed by follicular atresia. These phenotypes of mutants can be explained by the disruption of vitellogenesis in the absence of Lrp13s. Taken together, our results indicate that both Lrp13a and Lrp13b can serve as vitellogenin receptors in zebrafish among other vitellogenin receptors that are not yet described.
Evolution of patients with Sézary syndrome after mogamulizumab discontinuation for any cause except progression: a multicentre retrospective study (Moga-stop Study)
Authors: Tzoumpa Sofia , Ingen-Housz-Oro Saskia , de Masson Adèle , Pham-Ledard Anne , El Aarbaoui Tarik , Dereure Olivier , Quereux Gaëlle , Faiz Sarah , de Vicq de Cumptich Marine , Ram-Wolff Caroline , Janela-Lapert Raphaël , Guenova Emmanuella , Lheure Coralie , Le Corre Yannick , Adamski Henri , Blanchard Maël , Bonnet Nathalie , Amatore Florent , Grange Florent , Troin Laura , Bagot Martine , Beylot-Barry Marie
Published: April 2024

The results of this study suggest that progressive discontinuation of mogamulizumab (Moga) should be considered once a response is obtained in patients with Sézary syndrome, even after a short treatment duration. This may minimize the risk of adverse effects, costs and resistance to Moga. Additionally, our study emphasizes that Moga rechallenge should be encouraged as a first choice in relapsing patients.
T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma/leukaemia involving bilateral breast: a case report
Authors: Zhou Jing , Li Mingxing , Liao Ling
Published: April 2024

T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma of the breast represents a highly uncommon subtype of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. This study presents a case of T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma/acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (T-LBL/ALL) in a 73-year-old female patient exhibiting bilateral breast masses, bilateral axillary lymphadenopathy, swollen lymph nodes in the left neck, and petechiae on the chest. The breast ultrasound revealed heterogeneous hypoechoic findings in the skin layer and subcutaneous tissue of the upper outer quadrant of both breasts. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) demonstrated rapid homogeneous hyperenhancement of bilateral breast masses, and with a small unenhanced area noted in the centre of the left breast mass. The fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) of bilateral axillary lymph nodes revealed metastatic adenocarcinoma, whereas the FNAC of the left cervical lymph nodes indicated non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Biopsy of the breast mass demonstrated multifocal growth of lymphocyte-like cells, with immunohistochemical analysis confirming T-LBL/ALL. This case study outlines the clinical and CEUS features of breast T-LBL/ALL.
Adjuvant chemotherapy for adenocarcinoma arising from intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasia: multicentre ADENO-IPMN study
Authors: Lucocq James , Hawkyard Jake , Haugk Beate , Mownah Omar , Menon Krishna , Furukawa Takaki , Inoue Yosuke , Hirose Yuki , Sasahira Naoki , Feretis Michael , Balakrishnan Anita , Ceresa Carlo , Davidson Brian , Pande Rupaly , Dasari Bobby , Tanno Lulu , Karavias Dimitrios , Helliwell Jack , Young Alistair , Nunes Quentin , Urbonas Tomas , Silva Michael , Gordon-Weeks Alex , Barrie Jenifer , Gomez Dhanny , Van Laarhoven Stijn , Robertson Francis , Nawara Hossain , Doyle Joseph , Bhogal Ricky , Harrison Ewen , Roalso Marcus , Ciprani Debora , Aroori Somaiah , Ratnayake Bathiya , Koea Jonathan , Capurso Gabriele , Bellotti Ruben , Stättner Stefan , Alsaoudi Tareq , Bhardwaj Neil , Rajesh Srujan , Jeffery Fraser , Connor Saxon , Cameron Andrew , Jamieson Nigel , Sheen Amy , Mittal Anubhav , Samra Jas , Gill Anthony , Roberts Keith , Søreide Kjetil , Pandanaboyana Sanjay
Published: April 2024

Background

The clinical impact of adjuvant chemotherapy after resection for adenocarcinoma arising from intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasia is unclear. The aim of this study was to identify factors related to receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy and its impact on recurrence and survival.

Methods

This was a multicentre retrospective study of patients undergoing pancreatic resection for adenocarcinoma arising from intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasia between January 2010 and December 2020 at 18 centres. Recurrence and survival outcomes for patients who did and did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy were compared using propensity score matching.

Results

Of 459 patients who underwent pancreatic resection, 275 (59.9%) received adjuvant chemotherapy (gemcitabine 51.3%, gemcitabine–capecitabine 21.8%, FOLFIRINOX 8.0%, other 18.9%). Median follow-up was 78 months. The overall recurrence rate was 45.5% and the median time to recurrence was 33 months. In univariable analysis in the matched cohort, adjuvant chemotherapy was not associated with reduced overall (P = 0.713), locoregional (P = 0.283) or systemic (P = 0.592) recurrence, disease-free survival (P = 0.284) or overall survival (P = 0.455). Adjuvant chemotherapy was not associated with reduced site-specific recurrence. In multivariable analysis, there was no association between adjuvant chemotherapy and overall recurrence (HR 0.89, 95% c.i. 0.57 to 1.40), disease-free survival (HR 0.86, 0.59 to 1.30) or overall survival (HR 0.77, 0.50 to 1.20). Adjuvant chemotherapy was not associated with reduced recurrence in any high-risk subgroup (for example, lymph node-positive, higher AJCC stage, poor differentiation). No particular chemotherapy regimen resulted in superior outcomes.

Conclusion

Chemotherapy following resection of adenocarcinoma arising from intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasia does not appear to influence recurrence rates, recurrence patterns or survival.
Revisiting distinct nerve excitability patterns in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Stikvoort García Diederik J L , Goedee H Stephan , van Eijk Ruben P A , van Schelven Leonard J , van den Berg Leonard H , Sleutjes Boudewijn T H M
Published: April 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a devastating neurodegenerative disease, characterized by loss of central and peripheral motor neurons. Although the disease is clinically and genetically heterogeneous, axonal hyperexcitability is a commonly observed feature that has been suggested to reflect an early pathophysiological step linked to the neurodegenerative cascade. Therefore, it is important to clarify the mechanisms causing axonal hyperexcitability and how these relate to the clinical characteristics of patients.

Measures derived directly from a nerve excitability recording are frequently used as study end points, although their biophysical basis is difficult to deduce. Mathematical models can aid in the interpretation but are reliable only when applied to group-averaged recordings. Consequently, model estimates of membrane properties cannot be compared with clinical characteristics or treatment effects in individual patients, posing a considerable limitation in heterogeneous diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. To address these challenges, we revisited nerve excitability using a new pattern analysis-based approach (principal component analysis). We evaluated disease-specific patterns of excitability changes and established their biophysical origins. Based on the observed patterns, we developed new compound measures of excitability that facilitate the implementation of this approach in clinical settings.

We found that excitability changes in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients (n = 161, median disease duration = 11 months) were characterized by four unique patterns compared with controls (n = 50, age and sex matched). These four patterns were best explained by changes in resting membrane potential (modulated by Na+/K+ currents), slow potassium and sodium currents (modulated by their gating kinetics) and refractory properties of the nerve. Consequently, we were able to show that altered gating of slow potassium channels was associated with, and predictive of, the rate of progression of the disease on the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis functional rating scale. Based on these findings, we designed four composite measures that capture these properties to facilitate implementation outside this study.

Our findings demonstrate that changes in nerve excitability in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are dominated by four distinct patterns, each with a distinct biophysical origin. Based on this new approach, we provide evidence that altered slow potassium-channel function might play a role in the rate of disease progression. The magnitudes of these patterns, quantified using a similar approach or our new composite measures, have potential as efficient measures to study membrane properties directly in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients, and thus aid prognostic stratification and trial design.
Unleashing the potential of mRNA therapeutics for inherited neurological diseases
Authors: Monfrini Edoardo , Baso Giacomo , Ronchi Dario , Meneri Megi , Gagliardi Delia , Quetti Lorenzo , Verde Federico , Ticozzi Nicola , Ratti Antonia , Di Fonzo Alessio , Comi Giacomo P , Ottoboni Linda , Corti Stefania
Published: April 2024

Neurological monogenic loss-of-function diseases are hereditary disorders resulting from gene mutations that decrease or abolish the normal function of the encoded protein. These conditions pose significant therapeutic challenges, which may be resolved through the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. RNA-based technologies, such as mRNA replacement therapy, have emerged as promising and increasingly viable treatments. Notably, mRNA therapy exhibits significant potential as a mutation-agnostic approach that can address virtually any monogenic loss-of-function disease.

Therapeutic mRNA carries the information for a healthy copy of the defective protein, bypassing the problem of targeting specific genetic variants. Moreover, unlike conventional gene therapy, mRNA-based drugs are delivered through a simplified process that requires only transfer to the cytoplasm, thereby reducing the mutagenic risks related to DNA integration. Additionally, mRNA therapy exerts a transient effect on target cells, minimizing the risk of long-term unintended consequences. The remarkable success of mRNA technology for developing coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines has rekindled interest in mRNA as a cost-effective method for delivering therapeutic proteins. However, further optimization is required to enhance mRNA delivery, particularly to the CNS, while minimizing adverse drug reactions and toxicity.

In this comprehensive review, we delve into past, present and ongoing applications of mRNA therapy for neurological monogenic loss-of-function diseases. We also discuss the promises and potential challenges presented by mRNA therapeutics in this rapidly advancing field. Ultimately, we underscore the full potential of mRNA therapy as a game-changing therapeutic approach for neurological disorders.
Energy model based on solar potential and the production of electrical energy through living plants’ photosynthesis
Authors: Rodriguez Martinez Raymond Daniel
Published: April 2024

Developing a sustainable energy model is imperative considering the current trend towards decarbonizing sectors worldwide. For this purpose, Venezuela was used as a reference to propose an energy model focused on taking advantage of plant photosynthesis through microbial–vegetable fuel cells together with an agro-photovoltaic system to enhance energy and agricultural production. Energy production from the cells was estimated using an average power density of 264 mW/m2 over 4% of the areas destined for crops in the entire Venezuelan region, obtaining an annual production of 19.889 GWh/year. In contrast, the energy production of the agro-photovoltaic system was modelled using PVsyst software on 50% of the area used for the cells distributed throughout the states of Anzoátegui, Guárico, Monagas and Portuguesa according to their meteorological conditions, solar irradiation and agricultural activity, resulting in 3 703 417 GWh/year. The resulting whole system proved to be able to cover >10 times the installed electricity generation capacity at a national level and, together with the tremendous scalability of the microbial fuel cells, it shows that Venezuela has a high potential for the production and distribution of clean energy.
How Does the Proportion of Never Treatment Influence the Success of Mass Drug Administration Programs for the Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis?
Authors: Kura Klodeta , Stolk Wilma A , Basáñez Maria-Gloria , Collyer Benjamin S , de Vlas Sake J , Diggle Peter J , Gass Katherine , Graham Matthew , Hollingsworth T Déirdre , King Jonathan D , Krentel Alison , Anderson Roy M , Coffeng Luc E
Published: April 2024

Background

Mass drug administration (MDA) is the cornerstone for the elimination of lymphatic filariasis (LF). The proportion of the population that is never treated (NT) is a crucial determinant of whether this goal is achieved within reasonable time frames.

Methods

Using 2 individual-based stochastic LF transmission models, we assess the maximum permissible level of NT for which the 1% microfilaremia (mf) prevalence threshold can be achieved (with 90% probability) within 10 years under different scenarios of annual MDA coverage, drug combination and transmission setting.

Results

For Anopheles-transmission settings, we find that treating 80% of the eligible population annually with ivermectin + albendazole (IA) can achieve the 1% mf prevalence threshold within 10 years of annual treatment when baseline mf prevalence is 10%, as long as NT <10%. Higher proportions of NT are acceptable when more efficacious treatment regimens are used. For Culex-transmission settings with a low (5%) baseline mf prevalence and diethylcarbamazine + albendazole (DA) or ivermectin + diethylcarbamazine + albendazole (IDA) treatment, elimination can be reached if treatment coverage among eligibles is 80% or higher. For 10% baseline mf prevalence, the target can be achieved when the annual coverage is 80% and NT ≤15%. Higher infection prevalence or levels of NT would make achieving the target more difficult.

Conclusions

The proportion of people never treated in MDA programmes for LF can strongly influence the achievement of elimination and the impact of NT is greater in high transmission areas. This study provides a starting point for further development of criteria for the evaluation of NT.
Subnational Projections of Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination Targets in Ethiopia to Support National Level Policy
Authors: Prada Joaquin M , Touloupou Panayiota , Kebede Biruck , Giorgi Emanuelle , Sime Heven , Smith Morgan , Kontoroupis Periklis , Brown Paul , Cano Jorge , Farkas Hajnal , Irvine Mike , Reimer Lisa , Caja Rivera Rocio , de Vlas Sake J , Michael Edwin , Stolk Wilma A , Pulan Rachel , Spencer Simon E F , Hollingsworth T Déirdre , Seife Fikre
Published: April 2024

Background

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a debilitating, poverty-promoting, neglected tropical disease (NTD) targeted for worldwide elimination as a public health problem (EPHP) by 2030. Evaluating progress towards this target for national programmes is challenging, due to differences in disease transmission and interventions at the subnational level. Mathematical models can help address these challenges by capturing spatial heterogeneities and evaluating progress towards LF elimination and how different interventions could be leveraged to achieve elimination by 2030.

Methods

Here we used a novel approach to combine historical geo-spatial disease prevalence maps of LF in Ethiopia with 3 contemporary disease transmission models to project trends in infection under different intervention scenarios at subnational level.

Results

Our findings show that local context, particularly the coverage of interventions, is an important determinant for the success of control and elimination programmes. Furthermore, although current strategies seem sufficient to achieve LF elimination by 2030, some areas may benefit from the implementation of alternative strategies, such as using enhanced coverage or increased frequency, to accelerate progress towards the 2030 targets.

Conclusions

The combination of geospatial disease prevalence maps of LF with transmission models and intervention histories enables the projection of trends in infection at the subnational level under different control scenarios in Ethiopia. This approach, which adapts transmission models to local settings, may be useful to inform the design of optimal interventions at the subnational level in other LF endemic regions.
Using Passive Surveillance to Maintain Elimination as a Public Health Problem for Neglected Tropical Diseases: A Model-Based Exploration
Authors: Minter Amanda , Medley Graham F , Hollingsworth T Déirdre
Published: April 2024

Background

Great progress is being made toward the goal of elimination as a public health problem for neglected tropical diseases such as leprosy, human African trypanosomiasis, Buruli ulcer, and visceral leishmaniasis, which relies on intensified disease management and case finding. However, strategies for maintaining this goal are still under discussion. Passive surveillance is a core pillar of a long-term, sustainable surveillance program.

Methods

We use a generic model of disease transmission with slow epidemic growth rates and cases detected through severe symptoms and passive detection to evaluate under what circumstances passive detection alone can keep transmission under control.

Results

Reducing the period of infectiousness due to decreasing time to treatment has a small effect on reducing transmission. Therefore, to prevent resurgence, passive surveillance needs to be very efficient. For some diseases, the treatment time and level of passive detection needed to prevent resurgence is unlikely to be obtainable.

Conclusions

The success of a passive surveillance program crucially depends on what proportion of cases are detected, how much of their infectious period is reduced, and the underlying reproduction number of the disease. Modeling suggests that relying on passive detection alone is unlikely to be enough to maintain elimination goals.
Incorporating otolith-isotope inferred field metabolic rate into conservation strategies
Authors: de Groot Valesca A , Trueman Clive , Bates Amanda E
Published: April 2024

Fluctuating ocean conditions are rearranging whole networks of marine communities—from individual-level physiological thresholds to ecosystem function. Physiological studies support predictions from individual-level responses (biochemical, cellular, tissue, respiratory potential) based on laboratory experiments. The otolith-isotope method of recovering field metabolic rate has recently filled a gap for the bony fishes, linking otolith stable isotope composition to in situ oxygen consumption and experienced temperature estimates. Here, we review the otolith-isotope method focusing on the biochemical and physiological processes that yield estimates of field metabolic rate. We identify a multidisciplinary pathway in the application of this method, providing concrete research goals (field, modeling) aimed at linking individual-level physiological data to higher levels of biological organization. We hope that this review will provide researchers with a transdisciplinary ‘roadmap’, guiding the use of the otolith-isotope method to bridge the gap between individual-level physiology, observational field studies, and modeling efforts, while ensuring that in situ data is central in marine policy-making aimed at mitigating climatic and anthropogenic threats.
Gamma delta (γδ) T cells in the female reproductive tract: active participants or indifferent bystanders in reproductive success?
Authors: Foyle Kerrie L , Robertson Sarah A
Published: April 2024

The female reproductive tract accommodates and balances the unique immunological challenges of protection from sexually transmitted pathogens and tolerance of the fetus and placenta in pregnancy. Leukocytes in the female reproductive tract actively engage in extensive maternal adaptations that are imperative for embryo implantation, placental development, and fetal growth support. γδ T cells are abundant at many mucosal sites in the body, where they provide protection against pathogens and cancer, and have roles in tissue renewal and homeostasis. In this review, we summarize studies in humans and rodents showing that γδ T cells are prevalent in the female reproductive tract and fluctuate in response to hormone changes across the reproductive cycle. Emerging evidence points to a link between changes in their abundance and molecular repertoire in the uterus and pregnancy disorders including recurrent miscarriage and preterm birth. However, defining the precise functional role of female reproductive tract γδ T cells and understanding their physiological significance in reproduction and pregnancy have remained elusive. Here, we critically analyze whether reproductive tract γδ T cells could be active participants in reproductive events—or whether their principal function is immune defense, in which case they may compromise pregnancy success unless adequately regulated.
Dyslipidaemia management in pregnant patients: a 2024 update
Authors: Lewek Joanna , Bielecka-Dąbrowa Agata , Toth Peter P , Banach Maciej
Published: April 2024

Over several decades, the approach to treating dyslipidaemias during pregnancy remains essentially unchanged. The lack of advancement in this field is mostly related to the fact that we lack clinical trials of pregnant patients both with available as well as new therapies. While there are numerous novel therapies developed for non-pregnant patients, there are still many limitations in dyslipidaemia treatment during pregnancy. Besides pharmacotherapy and careful clinical assessment, the initiation of behavioural modifications as well as pre-conception management is very important. Among the various lipid-lowering medications, bile acid sequestrants are the only ones officially approved for treating dyslipidaemia in pregnancy. Ezetimibe and fenofibrate can be considered if their benefits outweigh potential risks. Statins are still considered contraindicated, primarily due to animal studies and human case reports. However, recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses as well as data on familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) in pregnant patients have indicated that their use may not be harmful and could even be beneficial in certain selected cases. This is especially relevant for pregnant patients at very high cardiovascular risk, such as those who have already experienced an acute cardiovascular event or have homozygous or severe forms of heterozygous FH. In these cases, the decision to continue therapy during pregnancy should weigh the potential risks of discontinuation. Bempedoic acid, olezarsen, evinacumab, evolocumab and alirocumab, and inclisiran are options to consider just before and after pregnancy is completed. In conclusion, decisions regarding lipid-lowering therapy for pregnant patients should be personalized. Despite the challenges in designing and conducting studies in pregnant women, there is a strong need to establish the safety and efficacy of dyslipidaemia treatment during pregnancy.
Personnel Management and School Productivity: Evidence from India
Authors: Lemos Renata , Muralidharan Karthik , Scur Daniela
Published: April 2024

This paper uses new data to study school management and productivity in India. We report five main results. First, management quality in public schools is low, and ∼2 standard deviations below high-income countries with comparable data. Second, private schools have higher management quality, driven by much stronger people management. Third, people management quality is correlated with independent measures of teaching practice, as well as school productivity measured by student value added. Fourth, better-managed schools have lower variation in within-school teacher effectiveness and higher levels of minimum teacher effectiveness. Fifth, consistent with better people management, teacher pay in private schools is positively correlated with teacher effectiveness, whereas we find no such correlation in public schools.
Robotic thymectomy in thymic tumours: a multicentre, nation-wide study
Authors: Comacchio Giovanni Maria , Schiavon Marco , Zirafa Carmelina Cristina , De Palma Angela , Scaramuzzi Roberto , Meacci Elisa , Bongiolatti Stefano , Monaci Nicola , Lyberis Paraskevas , Novellis Pierluigi , Brandolini Jury , Parini Sara , Ricciardi Sara , D’Andrilli Antonio , Bottoni Edoardo , Gallina Filippo Tommaso , Marino Maria Carlotta , Lorenzoni Giulia , Francavilla Andrea , Rendina Erino Angelo , Cardillo Giuseppe , Rena Ottavio , Solli Piergiorgio , Alloisio Marco , Luzzi Luca , Facciolo Francesco , Voltolini Luca , Margaritora Stefano , Curcio Carlo , Marulli Giuseppe , Ruffini Enrico , Veronesi Giulia , Melfi Franca , Rea Federico
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVES

Robotic thymectomy has been suggested and considered technically feasible for thymic tumours. However, because of small-sample series and the lack of data on long-term results, controversies still exist on surgical and oncological results with this approach. We performed a large national multicentre study sought to evaluate the early and long-term outcomes after robot-assisted thoracoscopic thymectomy in thymic epithelial tumours.

METHODS

All patients with thymic epithelial tumours operated through a robotic thoracoscopic approach between 2002 and 2022 from 15 Italian centres were enrolled. Demographic characteristics, clinical, intraoperative, postoperative, pathological and follow-up data were retrospectively collected and reviewed.

RESULTS

There were 669 patients (307 men and 362 women), 312 (46.6%) of whom had associated myasthenia gravis. Complete thymectomy was performed in 657 (98%) cases and in 57 (8.5%) patients resection of other structures was necessary, with a R0 resection in all but 9 patients (98.6%). Twenty-three patients (3.4%) needed open conversion, but no perioperative mortality occurred. Fifty-one patients (7.7%) had postoperative complications. The median diameter of tumour resected was 4 cm (interquartile range 3–5.5 cm), and Masaoka stage was stage I in 39.8% of patients, stage II in 56.1%, stage III in 3.5% and stage IV in 0.6%. Thymoma was observed in 90.2% of patients while thymic carcinoma occurred in 2.8% of cases. At the end of the follow-up, only 2 patients died for tumour-related causes. Five- and ten-year recurrence rates were 7.4% and 8.3%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Through the largest collection of robotic thymectomy for thymic epithelial tumours we demonstrated that robot-enhanced thoracoscopic thymectomy is a technically sound and safe procedure with a low complication rate and optimal oncological outcomes.
Population Genomic History of the Endangered Anatolian and Cyprian Mouflons in Relation to Worldwide Wild, Feral, and Domestic Sheep Lineages
Authors: Atağ Gözde , Kaptan Damla , Yüncü Eren , Başak Vural Kıvılcım , Mereu Paolo , Pirastru Monica , Barbato Mario , Leoni Giovanni Giuseppe , Güler Merve Nur , Er Tuğçe , Eker Elifnaz , Yazıcı Tunca Deniz , Kılıç Muhammed Sıddık , Altınışık Nefize Ezgi , Çelik Ecem Ayşe , Morell Miranda Pedro , Dehasque Marianne , Floridia Viviana , Götherström Anders , Bilgin Cemal Can , Togan İnci , Günther Torsten , Özer Füsun , Hadjisterkotis Eleftherios , Somel Mehmet
Published: April 2024

Once widespread in their homelands, the Anatolian mouflon (Ovis gmelini anatolica) and the Cyprian mouflon (Ovis gmelini ophion) were driven to near extinction during the 20th century and are currently listed as endangered populations by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. While the exact origins of these lineages remain unclear, they have been suggested to be close relatives of domestic sheep or remnants of proto-domestic sheep. Here, we study whole genome sequences of n = 5 Anatolian mouflons and n = 10 Cyprian mouflons in terms of population history and diversity, comparing them with eight other extant sheep lineages. We find reciprocal genetic affinity between Anatolian and Cyprian mouflons and domestic sheep, higher than all other studied wild sheep genomes, including the Iranian mouflon (O. gmelini). Studying diversity indices, we detect a considerable load of short runs of homozygosity blocks (<2 Mb) in both Anatolian and Cyprian mouflons, reflecting small effective population size (Ne). Meanwhile, Ne and mutation load estimates are lower in Cyprian compared with Anatolian mouflons, suggesting the purging of recessive deleterious variants in Cyprian sheep under a small long-term Ne, possibly attributable to founder effects, island isolation, introgression from domestic lineages, or differences in their bottleneck dynamics. Expanding our analyses to worldwide wild and feral Ovis genomes, we observe varying viability metrics among different lineages and a limited consistency between viability metrics and International Union for Conservation of Nature conservation status. Factors such as recent inbreeding, introgression, and unique population dynamics may have contributed to the observed disparities.
Pain Lowers Subjective Survival Probabilities Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults
Authors: Fennell Gillian , Osuna Margarita , Ailshire Jennifer , Zajacova Anna
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Pain is a leading cause of disability and a limiting factor in individuals’ assessments of their own subjective health; however, its association with subjective longevity has yet to be explored. Subjective survival probabilities (SSPs), or one’s own perceived chances of living to a given age, can influence individuals’ behavior as they plan for their futures. This study assesses whether pain correlates to lower SSPs.

Methods

We use a repeated cross-section of the 2000–2018 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, a longitudinal and nationally representative survey of Americans aged 51 and older (N = 31,773).

Results

Fractional logit regressions indicate that, across all age groups, respondents with severe and/or interfering pain reported significantly lower SSPs than those with no pain (Marginal Effect [ME] = −0.03 to −0.06, p < .05). Controlling for all covariates, mild or moderate noninterfering pain was only associated with a significant reduction in SSPs among the youngest group reporting their chances of living to age 75 (ME = −0.02, p < .001). Descriptively and in the model results, respondents with mild or moderate noninterfering pain appeared to more closely resemble pain-free respondents than those with severe or interfering pain.

Discussion

These findings highlight the importance of pain on SSPs, and contribute to the growing evidence that pain interference is uniquely important in predicting meaningful health outcomes.
Socioeconomic and fiscal returns of expanded investment in immunization: a case for life-course vaccination in Colombia
Authors: Soto-Moreno Jose Alejandro , Coe Martha , Parellada Cintia , Tantri Anupama , Angarita-Contreras Maria Clara , Acosta Paula
Published: April 2024

Despite the health, societal, and economic benefits of immunization, many countries focus primarily on childhood immunizations and lack robust policies and sufficient resources for immunizations that can benefit populations across the life course. While the benefits of childhood vaccination are well documented, there is limited evidence on the financial and social return on investment that policymakers can use to inform decisions around administering a life-course immunization program. We developed a cost-benefit model from a societal perspective to evaluate the inclusion of 5 vaccines across the life course in Colombia's national immunization program. This model estimated a return of US$1.3 per US$1.0 invested in the first 2 decades, increasing to US$3.9 after 60 years. Primary benefits were productivity gains, followed by fiscal savings and household averted expenditure on health care. Furthermore, vulnerable households are predicted to receive 3.2 times greater income protection than formally employed households under a life-course immunization program. Consequently, there is a potential to reduce Colombia's income inequality and poverty rate by increasing access to immunization for all ages.
Aneurysmal artery supplying pulmonary sequestration: successful combined approach
Authors: Napolitano Antonio Giulio , Coviello Eleonora , Simonte Gioele , Vannucci Jacopo
Published: April 2024

A 62-year-old man was diagnosed with an asymptomatic intralobar pulmonary sequestration supplied by a short-neck proximal 57×25 mm aneurysmal artery originating from the mid-descending aorta. The patient underwent thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair; an aortic endograft was released to entirely restore the aberrant vessel. Then, pulmonary resection was performed. A triportal video-assisted left lower lobectomy was carried out. The thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair minimized the risk of bleeding and allowed a safe pulmonary resection with a minimally invasive approach.
Thermal and effective assessment of solar thermal air collector with roughened absorber surface: an analytical examination
Authors: Kumar Raj , Sethi Muneesh , Goel Varun , Ramis M K , AlSubih Majed , Islam Saiful , Al Ansari Mohammed Saleh , Lee Daeho , WogassoWodajo Anteneh
Published: April 2024

The current work analyses the thermal (ηth) and effective efficiency (${\eta}_{\mathrm{eff}}$) of a solar thermal air collector (STAC) that has an arc-shaped dimple as a roughness geometry on the absorber plate. Nusselt number (Nu) and friction factor (ff) were computed for roughness geometry during the testing, which was done on STAC. Additionally, for different roughness values, the correlations for Nu and ff were developed and further used in this study. The temperature rise parameter and a parametric design are used to assess these efficiencies. The influence of design variables on STAC performance is analyzed using a numerical model based on thermal and effective evaluations. During the investigation, parameters such as relative roughness height (e/Dh) varied from 0.021 to 0.036, relative roughness pitch (p/e) from 10 to 20, arc angle (α) from 45 to 60°, temperature rise parameter from 0.003 to 0.02 and Reynolds number (Re) from 3000 to 48 000 at a constant solar intensity (I = 1000 W/m2). The ηth and ${\eta}_{\mathrm{eff}}$ are observed to be 85% and 78%, respectively, at the optimum values of roughness parameters, i.e. e/Dh = 0.036, p/e = 10, and α = 60°. The curves have been plotted between each of the roughness parameters and Re in order to evaluate the best ηth and ${\eta}_{\mathrm{eff}}$ . The research emphasizes the usefulness of MATLAB for STAC analysis and optimization, roughness parameters of the suggested collector design, by integrating simulation and experimental data.
Good Words Are Worth Much, and Cost Little: Can Panel Maintenance Communication Be Effective in Increasing Survey Completion in a Volunteer Online Panel?
Authors: Kocar Sebastian
Published: April 2024

Online panels tend to be more affected by nonresponse bias than cross-sectional online and offline surveys due to an accumulating effect of attrition over time. Further, nonprobability panels that do not offer monetary rewards can be more sensitive to nonparticipation, but the existing research on panel maintenance strategies to increase survey completion in nonprobability/volunteer online panels is still scarce. To identify between-wave communications that could serve as cost-effective panel maintenance activities to increase survey completion, a survey experiment was carried out, and two solutions were empirically tested: sending survey results in a report (a long report or an infographic) and sending a prenotification before the following survey (a short or a longer prenotification). The results showed a small effect of sending an infographic, either with or without a short prenotification. Additionally, a positive effect was observed when emailing a short prenotification to those who completed the previous survey questionnaire, indicating a differential impact of between-wave communication. In summary, this study demonstrates how the survey completion rate can be increased in nonprobability online panels with non-monetary incentives, which can be incorporated into panel maintenance strategies for different types of panels.
Corticosterone Contributes to Diet-Induced Reprogramming of Post-Metamorphic Behavior in Spadefoot Toads
Authors: Shephard A M , Lagon S R , Jacobsen S , Millar K , Ledón-Rettig C C
Published: April 2024

Synopsis

Stressful experiences in early life can have phenotypic effects that persist into, or manifest during, adulthood. In vertebrates, such carryover effects can be driven by stress-induced secretion of glucocorticoid hormones, such as corticosterone, which can lead to developmental reprogramming of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal/interrenal axis activity and behavior. Nutritional stress in the form of early life nutrient restriction is well known to modify later life behaviors and stress activity through corticosterone-related mechanisms. However, it is not known whether corticosterone is also mechanistically involved in carryover effects induced by a different form of nutritional variation: the use of alternate or entirely novel types of dietary resources. The plains spadefoot (Spea bombifrons) presents an excellent system for testing this question, since larvae of this species have evolved to use 2 alternate diet types: an ancestral detritus-based diet and a more novel diet of live shrimp. While previous work has shown that feeding on the novel shrimp diet influences juvenile (i.e., post-metamorphic) behavior and corticosterone levels, it is unclear whether these diet-induced carryover effects are mediated by diet-induced corticosterone itself. To test for the mechanistic role of corticosterone in diet-induced carryover effects, we experimentally treated S. bombifrons larvae with exogenous corticosterone and measured subsequent effects on juvenile behavior and corticosterone levels. We found that while shrimp-fed larvae had elevated corticosterone levels, treatment of larvae with corticosterone itself had effects on juvenile behavior that partially resembled those carryover effects induced by the shrimp diet, such as altered food seeking and higher locomotor activity. However, unlike carryover effects caused by the shrimp diet, larval corticosterone exposure did not affect juvenile corticosterone levels. Overall, our study shows that corticosterone-related mechanisms are likely involved in carryover effects induced by a novel diet, yet such diet-induced carryover effects are not driven by corticosterone alone.