bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orexin‐A mediates glioblastoma proliferation inhibition by increasing ferroptosis triggered by unstable iron pools and GPX4 depletion
Authors: Huan Rengzheng , Zhang Jiqin , Yue Jianhe , Yang Sha , Han Guoqiang , Cheng Yuan , Tan Ying
Published: April 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) represents a prevalent form of primary malignant tumours in the central nervous system, but the options for effective treatment are extremely limited. Ferroptosis, as the most enriched programmed cell death process in glioma, makes a critical difference in glioma progression. Consequently, inducing ferroptosis has become an appealing strategy for tackling gliomas. Through the utilization of multi‐omics sequencing data analysis, flow cytometry, MDA detection and transmission electron microscopy, the impact of orexin‐A on ferroptosis in GBM was assessed. In this report, we provide the first evidence that orexin‐A exerts inhibitory effects on GBM proliferation via the induction of ferroptosis. This induction is achieved by instigating an unsustainable increase in iron levels and depletion of GPX4. Moreover, the regulation of TFRC, FTH1 and GPX4 expression through the targeting of NFE2L2 appears to be one of the potential mechanisms underlying orexin‐A‐induced ferroptosis.
Fangchinoline inhibits growth and biofilm of Candida albicans by inducing ROS overproduction
Authors: Yang Longfei , Wang Xiaonan , Ma Zhiming , Sui Yujie , Liu Xin
Published: April 2024

Infections caused by Candida species, especially Candida albicans, threaten the public health and create economic burden. Shortage of antifungals and emergence of drug resistance call for new antifungal therapies while natural products were attractive sources for developing new drugs. In our study, fangchinoline, a bis‐benzylisoquinoline alkaloid from Chinese herb Stephania tetrandra S. Moore, exerted antifungal effects on planktonic growth of several Candida species including C. albicans, with MIC no more than 50 μg/mL. In addition, results from microscopic, MTT and XTT reduction assays showed that fangchinoline had inhibitory activities against the multiple virulence factors of C. albicans, such as adhesion, hyphal growth and biofilm formation. Furthermore, this compound could also suppress the metabolic activity of preformed C. albicans biofilms. PI staining, followed by confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) analysis showed that fangchinoline can elevate permeability of cell membrane. DCFH‐DA staining suggested its anti‐Candida mechanism also involved overproduction of intracellular ROS, which was further confirmed by N‐acetyl‐cysteine rescue tests. Moreover, fangchinoline showed synergy with three antifungal drugs (amphotericin B, fluconazole and caspofungin), further indicating its potential use in treating C. albicans infections. Therefore, these results indicated that fangchinoline could be a potential candidate for developing anti‐Candida therapies.
Glycemic variability is associated with sural nerve conduction velocity in outpatients with type 2 diabetes: Usefulness of a new point‐of‐care device for nerve conduction studies
Authors: Morita Machiko , Sada Kentaro , Hidaka Shuji , Ogawa Miki , Shibata Hirotaka
Published: April 2024

Aims/Introduction

Although several studies have shown the association between continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)‐derived glycemic variability (GV) and diabetic peripheral neuropathy, no studies have focused on outpatients or used NC‐stat®/DPNCheck™, a new point‐of‐care device for nerve conduction study (NCS). We investigated the association between CGM‐derived GV and NCS using DPNCheck™ in outpatients with type 2 diabetes, and further analyzed the difference in results between patients with and without well‐controlled HbA1c levels.

Materials and Methods

All outpatients with type 2 diabetes using the CGM device (FreeStyle Libre Pro®) between 2017 and 2022 were investigated. Sural nerve conduction was evaluated by sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) amplitude and sensory conduction velocity (SCV) using DPNCheck™. Associations of CGM‐derived GV metrics with SNAP amplitude and SCV were investigated.

Results

In total, 304 outpatients with type 2 diabetes were included. In a linear regression model, most CGM‐derived GV metrics except for the mean amplitude of glucose excursion and low blood glucose index were significantly associated with SCV, but not with SNAP amplitude. The significant associations of most CGM‐derived GV metrics with SCV remained after adjustment for possible confounding factors, but not after adjustment for glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Most CGM‐derived GV metrics were significantly associated with SCV after adjustment for HbA1c in patients with a HbA1c ≤ 6.9%, but not in those with a HbA1c ≥ 7.0%.

Conclusions

In outpatients with type 2 diabetes, multiple CGM‐derived GV metrics were significantly associated with SCV obtained by DPNCheck™. GV may have independent impacts on peripheral nerve function, particularly in patients with well‐controlled HbA1c levels.
Anticholinergic and sedative medication use in older patients with cognitive concerns
Authors: Hinkle Caroline E. , Davis Jennifer D. , Arias Idania , Goldstein Allyson , Daiello Lori , Margolis Seth A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Anticholinergic (AC) and sedative medications are a risk factor for cognitive impairment. This study sought to characterize AC and sedative use in older patients seen for outpatient neuropsychological evaluation and evaluate their associations with different cognitive domains. We hypothesized that AC and sedative use would be associated with worse attention/processing speed (AP), executive functioning (EF), and memory.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional chart review of 392 patients (mean [M] age = 72 ± 7.7 years, range = 54–91). Medications were characterized by number of AC medications (≥1 on the Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden Scale [ACB]), number of sedative medications, and polypharmacy (≥5 daily medications). Demographically adjusted composites were calculated for AP, EF, and memory. Bivariate Pearson correlations assessed relationships between medication use and cognition. Multivariate linear regressions evaluated significant medication‐cognition associations, controlling for total medications, medical comorbidities, and estimated premorbid cognitive functioning.

Results

Polypharmacy was common (80%; n = 314). Most patients (70%; n = 275) used ≥1 sedative medications (range = 0–9). Over half (63%; n = 248) used ≥1 AC drugs (range = 0–7), yet ACB scores were ≤2 in 74% of patients. Sedative use was negatively correlated with AP (r = −0.134, p = 0.008) and EF (r = −0.105, p = 0.04). ACB scores were negatively correlated with AP (r = −0.106, p = 0.037). Sedatives and a priori covariates significantly predicted AP performance (R2 = 0.127, p < 0.001); using more sedative medications was uniquely associated with worse AP (β = −0.426, p = 0.049). No significant associations were found with memory.

Conclusion

AC and sedative medications and polypharmacy were prevalent in this sample of older patients. Though both drug classes had negative relationships with AP and EF, sedatives had a particularly negative association with AP. Contrary to our hypotheses, memory was not associated with medication use; however, anticholinergic burden was low within the sample, and AP and EF deficits may masquerade as memory problems.
Virtual reality‐based dementia educational programmes for formal and informal caregivers of people with dementia: A scoping review
Authors: Zhi Shengze , Gao Shizheng , Sun Juanjuan , Ma Dongfei , Zhao Yanjie , He Meng , Zhu Xiangning , Dong Yueyang , Aini Buheliqianmu , Sun Jiao
Published: April 2024

Aim

To map evidence of the existing virtual reality‐based dementia educational programmes and the effects of these educational programmes on dementia formal and informal caregivers.

Design

A scoping review.

Methods

A comprehensive search of nine databases was conducted to find studies from the inception of the databases to October 2023. Two authors independently screened the titles and abstracts related to the eligibility criteria. Full texts of potentially relevant studies were read by one author and checked by a second. Data extraction and synthesis using NVivo 12 were undertaken by one author and checked by two other authors.

Results

Nineteen studies published between 2002 and 2022. The four randomised controlled studies and five qualitative studies were of moderate to good methodological quality. The 10 quasi‐experimental studies were of weak to moderate quality. Fifteen virtual reality‐based educational programmes had a positive influence on formal and informal caregivers, including improving caregivers' perceptions changing attitudes towards people with dementia, while the nursing competence of formal caregivers did not improve in short term. Educational programmes that covered dementia‐related information and care strategies better improved the knowledge level of dementia formal and informal caregivers.

Conclusions

The qualitative and quantitative studies of moderate to good quality included in this study support the idea that virtual reality‐based dementia educational programmes may be a safe and effective way and have potential benefits for improving knowledge, perceptions, attitudes and nursing competence.

Impact

This scoping review will provide an emerging teaching model for formal and informal caregivers of people with dementia and help them better understand the types and the influence of virtual reality‐based dementia educational programmes.

Reporting Method

PRISMA‐ScR.

No Patient or Public Contribution

Not required as this review in accordance with the aim to map existing literature from the dementia formal and informal caregivers' perspective.
Promoting speaking‐up behaviours among nurses working in the care for older people: A scoping review
Authors: Austen Katrina , Hutchinson Marie , Hurley John
Published: April 2024

Aim

To explore interventions employed to foster speaking‐up behaviours of registered nurses (RNs) working in the care of older people.

Design

Scoping review.

Methods

The updated Joann Briggs Institute scoping review methodological guidelines were followed.

Data Sources

CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Scopus were searched.

Results

A total of 1691 titles and abstracts were screened, resulting in 11 articles that met the inclusion criteria. Analysis focused upon intervention types, methodologies, speaking up strategies, barriers and effectiveness. Education was the most used intervention.

Conclusion

There is a lack of published research on successful interventions to promote speaking‐up behaviours in the care of older people, particularly relating to poor care practices. Evidence of speaking‐up interventions in the residential aged care setting is absent. This highlights the need to develop strategies to support the RN to lead and enable others to raise care concerns.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Developing strategies that enable staff, care recipients and their families to speak up about care concerns is a vital future area for nursing practice development. Nursing leadership of such strategies is central to improving the quality of care for older people, particularly those living in residential aged care.

Impact

Older people receiving care should feel respected and be treated humanely. Evidence suggests this is often not the case. This review found a paucity of interventions to promote speaking‐up about poor care practices among RNs working in the care of older people. Future research needs to address this, to empower RNs and improve the care afforded to older people.

Reporting Method

The PRISMA‐ScR (Tricco et al., Annals of Internal Medicine, 169, 467–473, 2018) were adhered to throughout this scoping review.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution in this review.
The application of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders in a preliminary, small sample study
Authors: Song Yufeng , Che Xinle , Li Mengshi , Wang Zheyun , Zhang Runjie , Shi Qiongfang
Published: April 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of low‐intensity, high‐frequency shock waves in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders.

Methods

Twenty‐six patients with temporomandibular joint disorder admitted to the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University from August 2022 to December 2022 were selected as study subjects and randomly divided into two groups, A and B, with 13 patients each. In Group A, there were 5 males and 8 females with an average age of 38.85 ± 11.03 years. In Group B, there were 4 males and 9 females with an average age of 39.15 ± 11.16 years. Group A was the control group, which received routine treatment (manual massage + transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation + ultrashort wave therapy) plus sham shock wave therapy; Group B was the experimental group, which received routine treatment (manual massage + transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation + ultrashort wave therapy) plus shock wave therapy. The routine treatment was administered once/day, five times per week for a total of 2 weeks of treatment. In addition, shock wave therapy was administered once every 5 days, and the treatment was administered three times. The treatment period was 2 weeks, and the two groups were compared before treatment, at the end of the treatment period, and 4 weeks after treatment. The pain level of the two groups was assessed by the visual analogue scale (VAS) before and after treatment, and the temporomandibular opening index (TOI) before and after treatment was compared between the two groups. VAS and TOI scores were evaluated using the Mann–Whitney U‐test, the Kruskal–Wallis H‐test and two‐way ANOVA.

Results

There was no significant difference in the VAS score and temporomandibular opening index between the two groups before treatment (p = .829 and .75, respectively). After 2 weeks of treatment, the VAS score and temporomandibular joint opening index of both groups were significantly improved compared to those before therapy. In addition, the VAS score and temporomandibular joint opening index in the experimental group were significantly better than those in the control group (p < .001 and <.001, respectively). There was a small increase in scores 4 weeks after the treatment compared to just after the treatment period, but the difference was not significant.

Conclusion

This is a preliminary small sample study that demonstrates the positive effect of using low‐intensity, high‐frequency shock waves on the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders and is worthy of clinical promotion.
Assessing the influence of micelle silymarin on laying hens' performance, egg quality, water loss and blood profile
Authors: Ahammad Golam S. , Jeon Yong H. , Kim In H.
Published: April 2024

Micelle silymarin (MS) is known for its various beneficial properties, including antiswelling, antioxidant, hepatoprotective and antidiabetic effects. The primary goal of this research was to investigate how MS impacts the performance, egg quality, water loss and blood profile of laying hens. 288 Hy‐Line brown laying hens, 28 weeks in age, were utilized for this experiment. The hens were randomly allocated into three dietary treatment groups, with each group comprising eight replicates of 12 hens, each housed in individual pens with access to feed and water. Over a 12‐week feeding trial, the hens were provided with a basal diet supplemented with different levels of MS: 0%, 0.03% and 0.06%. The results indicated that the inclusion of MS in the hens’ diet did not have a significant impact on their performance (p > 0.05). However, Haugh units, egg weight and eggshell strength showed a linear improvement (p < 0.05) throughout the entire trial period with MS supplementation. Furthermore, there was a linear decrease in egg yolk colour and eggshell thickness showed linear improvements (p < 0.05), particularly during Week 8, with MS supplementation. Moreover, layers fed diet supplemented with MS showed a linear increased (p < 0.05) in albumen height and eggshell thickness in Week 12. In addition, egg water loss during Week 12, the third day of incubation, linearly decreased as an effect of the increasing level of the MS in the laying hen's diet (p < 0.05). Regarding blood profile parameters, the study revealed a tendency for alkaline phosphatase to decrease, whereas aspartate aminotransferase and cholesterol levels were linearly decreased (p < 0.05). In summary, increasing the level of MS supplementation in the diet of laying hens appeared to be beneficial in improving egg quality, slight improvement for egg water loss and certain aspects of blood profile parameters, without adversely affecting the hens' growth performance.
Randomized comparison between a forced air system and warm water bath for resuscitation of neonatal hypothermic calves with or without oral administration of caffeine
Authors: Copeland Adam T. , Kreuder Amanda J. , Dewell Grant , Dewell Renee , Wiley Caitlin , Yuan Lingnan , Mochel Jonathan P. , Smith Joe S.
Published: April 2024

Background

Hypothermia is a cause of neonatal calf death in cold climates. Practical and effective rewarming methods are important for bovine health within affected regions.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To compare the rewarming rate and blood analytes (glucose, lactate, and cortisol) of calves resuscitated with forced air with warm water bath, with or without oral administration of caffeine.

Animals

Twenty healthy neonatal Holstein bull calves.

Methods

In this randomized, prospective study, calves born healthy and without history of dystocia were cooled to 32°C rectal temperature then thermally resuscitated using either forced air rewarming or warm water bath (40°C) with or without oral administration of caffeine. Rectal temperatures were used to quantify recovery rate. Measurements of glucose, lactate, and cortisol were recorded for every 2°C change in rectal temperature.

Results

Rectal temperature decline (0.03°C per minute) and total cooling time (191.0 ± 33.3 minutes) did not significantly differ among treatment groups. Calves were successfully resuscitated to 38°C by either method. Time required to euthermia using warm water was significantly faster (0.1°C per minute; 64.3 ± 17.8 minute; P < .05) than forced air (0.05°C per minute; 123.1 ± 20.0 minutes). Caffeine had no significant effect on resuscitation rate (P = .14; 95% CI, −0.002 to 0.024) in either treatment; however, caffeine was associated with reduced time to euthermia by 8.3 and 10.8 minutes, respectively. Changes in metabolic variables (glucose, lactate, and cortisol), were inversely related to rectal temperature with no statistical significance among rewarming methods.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Although warm water submersion is faster, forced air rewarming is an effective alternative for restoration of euthermia.
Improving Second Language Vowel Production With Hand Gestures Encoding Visible Articulation: Evidence From Picture‐Naming and Paragraph‐Reading Tasks
Authors: Xi Xiaotong , Li Peng , Prieto Pilar
Published: April 2024

This study investigates whether audiovisual phonetic training with hand gestures encoding visible or nonvisible articulation features has a differential impact on learning second language sounds. Ninety‐nine Catalan–Spanish bilingual students were trained to differentiate English /æ/ and /ʌ/, which differ in the visible lip aperture and nonvisible tongue position, with training involving no gestures, gestures representing the lip aperture, or gestures representing the tongue position. Before, immediately after, and 1 week after the training, participants’ perception of the targets was assessed through a word‐identification task, and their production was tested through paragraph‐reading, picture‐naming, and word‐imitation tasks. Although all participants improved in perception and production, the lip hand gesture was more effective in adjusting lip aperture than the other two conditions in the paragraph‐reading and picture‐naming tasks. These results suggest that hand gestures encoding visible rather than nonvisible articulation features are more effective for improving second language pronunciation.
The long‐beaked common dolphin of the eastern Pacific Ocean: Taxonomic status and redescription of Delphinus bairdii
Authors: Jefferson Thomas A. , Archer Frederick I. , Robertson Kelly M.
Published: April 2024

Neritic, long‐beaked common dolphins have been described as species distinct from the more oceanic and globally distributed short‐beaked species, Delphinus delphis, although recent molecular studies have challenged this view. In the eastern North Pacific (ENP), the taxonomic status of the long‐beaked (bairdii) form has been controversial since its original description in 1873, and has vacillated between species, subspecies, and geographic forms several times. It is currently provisionally viewed as a subspecies of Delphinus delphis, D. d. bairdii. To clarify this situation, we reviewed the literature and conducted additional analyses using both newly obtained genetic and cranial morphometric data sets. The results indicate that there are diagnostic differences in skull morphology and coloration between the eastern Pacific long‐and short‐beaked forms, and near‐perfect diagnosability in mitochondrial DNA. These differences, along with indications of ecological distinctions, including important differences in life history parameters and reproductive timing, indicate that these forms are well on their way down separate evolutionary pathways. As such, we consider them to be distinct species in the eastern Pacific. The long‐beaked species is referable to Delphinus bairdii Dall, 1873, and is redescribed as such herein.
A new view of life
Authors: Ball Philip
Published: April 2024

The problem with defining “life” has bedeviled biology throughout its history, and still there is no agreed resolution. But one of the best ways to characterize living entities is not through any of the features or properties usually considered to define it, such as replication, metabolism, or evolution. Rather, living entities are generators of meaning.
Seasonal effects and trophic pressure shape the responses of species interactions in a tropical seagrass meadow to marine heatwaves
Authors: Bass Alissa V. , Falkenberg Laura J.
Published: April 2024

Species interactions are influenced by changes to the environment, such as seasonal variations in temperature, and human‐driven warming including marine heatwaves (MHWs). Alteration of species interactions, particularly those involving foundation species, can shape ecosystem structure, stability and dynamics. Marine habitats, notably seagrass meadows, are threatened by human‐driven environmental changes including MHWs which have the potential to alter trophic interactions through effects on various community members including seagrasses, epiphytic algae, and epiphytic algae grazers. Here we examined the effects of a simulated marine heatwave (control versus + 4°C) in different seasons and grazer occurrence on seagrass traits, epiphytic algae growth, grazer biomass and grazing rate. We found the season in which the MHW occurred affected the seagrass response and grazer influence. In winter, the MHW had positive effects on seagrass growth and nitrogen content and caused significant decreases in epiphytic algae growth. However, in summer, grazer presence increased seagrass growth and biomass, but growth was reduced by the interaction with the MHW. The season in which the MHW occurred affected the magnitude of change in leaf tissue isotopic values and C:N ratio, with greater changes occurring in summer. Epiphytic algal growth was markedly reduced by the interaction between all three factors, leading to the near lack of epiphyte growth in summer with grazers present under the MHW. Summer was also associated with a greater increase in snail biomass (most notably under MHW conditions), and increased snail grazing rate. From these results, we show that winter MHWs can drive increased growth of seagrasses but minimal impacts on grazers, while in summer increased grazer activity can interact with elevated temperatures from a MHW to increase their algal consumption. By examining responses across multiple trophic levels and distinct seasons, we achieve a more representative and realistic depiction of human‐induced environmental impacts on ecosystems.
Successful treatment of actinic prurigo with baricitinib in an 8‐year‐old child: A case report
Authors: Malekan Mohammad , Mohandesi Nessa Aghazadeh , Rahmatpour Rokni Ghasem , Babaei Mahsa , Montazer Fatemeh , Gholizadeh Nasim
Published: April 2024

Actinic prurigo is a rare photodermatosis characterized by pruritic papulonodular lesions. Treatment is challenging, especially in children, as sun protection strategies need to be rigorously implemented and symptoms often persist throughout the year. Herein, we present a case of actinic prurigo in an 8‐year‐old patient with rapid and successful relief with baricitinib.
From lichens to crops: Pathogenic potential of Pseudomonas syringae from Peltigera lichens is similar to worldwide epidemic strains
Authors: Ramírez Natalia , Caullireau Emma , Sigurbjörnsdóttir Margrét Auður , Vandelle Elodie , Vilhelmsson Oddur , Morris Cindy E.
Published: April 2024

The presence of bacteria belonging to the Pseudomonas syringae complex in the natural vegetation of several Icelandic habitat types has been recently reported, raising questions about the risk to Icelandic crops, particularly given the expected increase in agricultural activity due to climate warming. This study takes advantage of Iceland's unique characteristics and the discovery of P. syringae in Peltigera lichens to gain a better understanding of the potential risk posed by this newly discovered ecological niche. The main objective was to evaluate the pathogenic potential and fitness in crops of P. syringae strains isolated from Peltigera lichen sampled in Iceland, focusing on strains that belong to phylogroups 1 and 2, which commonly contain epidemic strains. The results indicate that P. syringae strains isolated from Icelandic Peltigera lichen have a comparable fitness to epidemic strains in 8 out of 10 tested plant species (rice, tomato, thale cress, annual mugwort, spinach, garlic chives, tobacco and kale). Furthermore, pathogenicity assessment on three plant species highlighted that certain strains also caused similar symptoms and disease severity compared to epidemic strains. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential risks posed by P. syringae from Icelandic natural habitats and illustrate how strains from these habitats have a wide pathogenic potential to crops without having encountered these crops in the last several thousand years of their presence in Iceland.
Isotope Distribution Analysis in H₂18O Pulse‐Labeled Trees Frozen with Liquid Nitrogen
Authors: Xiang Yan , Kagawa Akira , Nagai Satoshi , Yasuda Yuko , Utsumi Yasuhiro
Published: April 2024

Tracer injection has long been recognized as a valuable tool for delineating tree hydraulics and assessing water transport pathways. Recently, isotope tracers have emerged as innovative instruments for investigating tree hydraulics, providing new insights into tree water dynamics. Nevertheless, there is a critical need for further research to comprehensively grasp water movement and distribution within trees. A previously introduced technique for analyzing the isotopic ratio of water in wet tissues, offering millimeter‐scale resolution for visualizing tracer movement, faces challenges due to its underdeveloped sample preparation techniques. In this study, we introduced an H218O tracer into S. gracilistyla samples, exclusively comprising indeterminate roots, stems, and leaves, cultivated through hydroponics and grown within the current year. Our objective was to assess the axial distribution of the tracer in the xylem. Additionally, we devised a novel method for preparing frozen wet tissue samples, enhancing the repeatability and success rate of experiments. The results demonstrated that all frozen wet tissue samples exhibited an average water loss rate of less than 0.6%. Isotopic analysis of these samples unveiled a consistent decline in tracer concentration with increasing height in all Salix specimens, with three out of five samples revealing a significant isotope gradient. Our findings affirm the efficacy and practicality of combining isotopic labeling with freezing, stabilization, and preparation techniques. Looking ahead, our isotopic labeling and analysis methods are poised to transcend woody plants, finding extensive applications in plant physiology and ecohydrology.
Unraveling Key Factors for Hypoxia Tolerance in Contrasting Varieties of Cotton Rose by Comparative Morpho‐physiological and Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Xu Qian , Wu Mengxi , Zhang Lu , Chen Xi , Zhou Mei , Jiang Beibei , Jia Yin , Yong Xue , Tang Shengwen , Mou Lisha , Jia Zhishi , Shabala Sergey , Pan Yuanzhi
Published: April 2024

The cotton rose (Hibiscus mutabilis) is a plant species commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It is remarkably resilient to waterlogging stress; however, the underlying mechanism behind this trait is yet unknown. This study used hypoxia‐tolerant “Danbanhong” (DBH) and more hypoxia‐sensitive “Yurui” (YR) genotypes and compared their morpho‐physiological and transcriptional responses to hypoxic conditions. Notably, DBH had a higher number of adventitious roots (20.3) compared to YR (10.0), with longer adventitious roots in DBH (18.3 cm) than in YR (11.2 cm). Furthermore, the formation of aerenchyma was 3‐fold greater in DBH compared to YR. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that DBH had more rapid transcriptional responses to hypoxia than YR. Identification of a greater number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) for aerenchyma, adventitious root formation and development, and energy metabolism in DBH supported that DBH had better morphological and transcriptional adaptation than YR. DEG functional enrichment analysis indicated the involvement of variety‐specific biological processes in adaption to hypoxia. Plant hormone signaling transduction, MAPK signaling pathway and carbon metabolism played more pronounced roles in DBH, whereas the ribosome genes were specifically induced in YR. These results show that effective multilevel coordination of adventitious root development and aerenchyma, in conjunction with plant hormone signaling and carbon metabolism, is required for increased hypoxia tolerance. This study provides new insights into the characterization of morpho‐physiological and transcriptional responses to hypoxia in H. mutabilis, shedding light on the molecular mechanisms of its adaptation to hypoxic environments.
Costs and benefits of restoration are still poorly quantified: evidence from a systematic literature review on the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: Schimetka Lorenz R. , Ruggiero Patricia G. C. , Carvalho Raquel L. , Behagel Jelle , Metzger Jean Paul , Nascimento Nathália , Chaves Rafael B. , Brancalion Pedro H. S. , Rodrigues Ricardo R. , Krainovic Pedro M.
Published: April 2024

The achievement of international forest restoration goals requires economically viable land‐use options. The Brazilian Atlantic Forest is a priority area for ecosystem restoration, as it is widely deforested to make place for intensive agriculture and one of the most threatened biodiversity hotspots in the world. We systematically reviewed existing scientific literature on the biome to highlight the evidence on economic benefits and costs of forest restoration. A total of 15 publications were identified that quantify costs and/or economic benefits of forest restoration. We observed that most studies (11) [Correction added on 15 May 2024, after first online publication: In the preceding phrase, (12) was corrected to (11) in this version.] were published after 2018 and that research on the topic was biogeographically biased as 12 publications referred to study sites in Brazil's Southeast Region. Given its beneficial natural conditions, the Atlantic Forest is predestined for a wide range of restoration‐related opportunities, yet economic benefits of restoration are underexplored (seven studies). Moreover, benefits from a multifunctional use of restored forests are almost absent in the literature with only three studies presenting primary data. Elaboration of restoration costs is also limited to 10 studies that focus predominantly on active restoration. Thus, we argue that the economic costs and benefits of forest restoration are not well understood. Clarity thereon is, however, critical for policy formulation and to mobilize private investments. We therefore call for studies to fill in the knowledge gap on restoration economics in the Atlantic Forest biome, and to study restoration economics in other biomes as well.
On the modeling of compressible viscous fluids via Burgers and Oldroyd equations
Authors: Giorgi C. , Morro A.
Published: April 2024

The paper develops some generalizations of the Burgers and the Oldroyd equations for the dynamics of fluids. To account for compressibility, in addition to viscosity, first the Oldroyd derivative is replaced with the Truesdell derivative. Consequently, the two equations can be given a linear form within the Lagrangian formulation. Furthermore, possible anisotropies are modeled by replacing some (scalar) coefficients with tensors. To emphasize the compressibility property, generalizations are established to allow for nonzero longitudinal viscosity. Next, the thermodynamic consistency is investigated by regarding both types of equations as rate equations, of second order and first order. The requirements on the parameters entering the two equations are derived while the linearity of the two equations allow the free energy potential be quadratic. The Oldroyd equation is found to be compatible via appropriate restrictions of the tensor coefficients, through different pairs of free energy and entropy production.
The Veterans Crisis Line: Relations among immediate call outcomes and treatment contact and utilization following the call
Authors: Britton Peter C. , Karras Elizabeth , Stecker Tracy , Klein John , Crasta Dev , Brenner Lisa A. , Pigeon Wilfred R.
Published: April 2024

Objective

Crisis line callers experience reductions in distress and suicidal ideation and utilize more health care following calls. The purpose of this study was to determine whether changes in distress and suicidal ideation during a call are associated with later healthcare contact and utilization.

Method

Veterans Crisis Line calls from 599 veterans were extracted with call dates between 12/1/2018 and 11/30/2019. Calls were coded for changes in distress and suicidal ideation and linked with VA medical records to obtain healthcare data. Generalized Linear Mixed Modeling was used to examine the associations of changes in distress and suicidal ideation with healthcare contact (yes/no) and utilization (days of treatment) in the month (30 days) following the call.

Results

Reductions in distress were associated with behavioral (i.e., mental and substance use) healthcare utilization, F(1, 596) = 4.52, p = 0.03, and reductions in suicidal ideation were associated with any healthcare utilization, F(1, 596) = 6.45, p = 0.01. Changes in distress and suicidal ideation were not associated with healthcare contact.

Conclusion

Responders need to help resolve distress and suicidal ideation and link callers with treatment. Unresolved distress and suicidal thoughts may signify later problems with treatment utilization. Research is needed to determine causality.
Comparing Accelerometer Processing Metrics and Hyperparameter Optimization for Physical Activity Classification Accuracy Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Musa Sumayyah Bamidele , Barua Arnab , Stanley Kevin G. , Basset Fabien A. , Mamyia Hiroshi , Mongeon Kevin , Fuller Daniel
Published: April 2024

Background: Physical activity (PA) is a crucial factor in maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases. However, accurately measuring PA is challenging. Euclidean Norm Minus One (ENMO), ActiGraph Counts, and Monitor-Independent Movement Summary (MIMS) units are processing metrics used to classify PA through accelerometry, but they employ different methods to calculate activity levels. This study aimed to compare ENMO, ActiGraph Counts, and MIMS accelerometer metrics using machine learning algorithms. Methods: Data from a smartphone accelerometer were collected from 50 participants who held the smartphone in their right hand while completing six activities. The data were used to generate ENMO, ActiGraph Counts, and MIMS acceleration metrics. Random Forest, K-Nearest Neighbor, and Support Vector Machine algorithms were applied to the data to classify PA into different levels of activity intensity and types. The algorithms’ performance was evaluated using various metrics such as accuracy, precision, and recall. Results: The results showed that both the Random Forest and K-Nearest Neighbor algorithms performed well, achieving above 80% accuracy in classifying PA into different intensity levels and types. Both the ENMO and MIMS metrics proved more accurate than ActiGraph Counts in classifying moderate to vigorous PA. Conclusions: This study provides evidence that both ENMO and MIMS metrics can accurately measure PA with accelerometry, and machine learning algorithms can classify the activity into different intensity levels. These metrics and methods are valuable tools for monitoring PA and understanding the relationship between PA and health outcomes.
agcounts: An R Package to Calculate ActiGraph Activity Counts From Portable Accelerometers
Authors: Helsel Brian C. , Hibbing Paul R. , Montgomery Robert N. , Vidoni Eric D. , Ptomey Lauren T. , Clutton Jonathan , Washburn Richard A.
Published: April 2024

Portable accelerometers are used to capture physical activity in free-living individuals with the ActiGraph being one of the most widely used device brands in physical activity and health research. Recently, in February 2022, ActiGraph published their activity count algorithm and released a Python package for generating activity counts from raw acceleration data for five generations of ActiGraph devices. The nonproprietary derivation of the ActiGraph count improved the transparency and interpretation of accelerometer device-measured physical activity, but the Python release of the count algorithm does not integrate with packages developed by the physical activity research community using the R Statistical Programming Language. In this technical note, we describe our efforts to create an R-based translation of ActiGraph’s Python package with additional extensions to make data processing easier and faster for end users. We call the resulting R package agcounts and provide an inside look at its key functionalities and extensions while discussing its prospective impacts on collaborative open-source software development in physical behavior research. We recommend that device manufacturers follow ActiGraph’s lead by providing open-source access to their data processing algorithms and encourage physical activity researchers to contribute to the further development and refinement of agcounts and other open-source software.
Is Scotland Walking in the Right Direction? A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Trends in Walking by Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Strain Tessa , Kelly Paul , Gibb Rona , Allison Mary , Mutrie Nanette , Murphy Marie
Published: April 2024

Background: Walking is a key target behavior for promoting population health. This paper charts the 30-year history of walking policy in Scotland. We assess whether population walking levels among adults in Scotland have changed in recent years and identify the characteristics of those least likely to report any walking. Methods: We pooled 9 years (2012–2019 and 2021) of data from adult (≥16 y) respondents of the Scottish Health Survey (n = 41,470). The outcomes of interest were the percentage reporting (1) any walking and (2) any walking with an average pace that is of at least moderate intensity. We also investigated the contribution of walking to total nonoccupational moderate to vigorous physical activity. We used linear and logistic regressions to test linear trends over time and to identify inequalities by age, sex, and the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation quintile. Results: There was an increase in all measures of walking over the period 2012–2021; for example, the percentage reporting any walking increased by 7 percentage points (81.4%–88.4%). Inequalities still exist by age, sex, and the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation but have not grown over time. Inequalities by sex and age are most pronounced in the least affluent Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation quintiles; less affluent older women are least likely to report any walking. Conclusions: Scotland appears to be walking in the right direction. Surveillance data support a positive trend after decades of policy and promotion efforts. The policies do not appear to be exacerbating existing inequalities, but narrowing them will require more concentrated efforts.
Men and Women Competing on Equal Terms? A Cross-Sectional Study of Young Women About the Impact of Menstrual Concerns on Equestrian Sport Participation
Authors: Thompson Kirrilly , Barrington Dani Jennifer , Coffey Julia
Published: April 2024

In equestrian sport, women are popularly thought to compete on equal terms with men. This ideal has been critiqued by studies documenting how women’s participation is impacted by gendered equestrian cultures and society more broadly. However, one physiological process has been overlooked—menstruation. This is the first study to focus specifically on the impacts of menstruation and menstrual concerns on women’s participation in horse sport and to locate those concerns within broader equestrian traditions of attire and discourses of control. The authors conducted a cross-sectional survey of 328 female riding members of Pony Club Australia aged 10–17 years. Findings challenge the idea of equestrian as a sport where men and women compete “on equal terms.” In particular, they illustrate how traditional dress codes of white-/light-colored riding pants exacerbate menstrual concerns, limit/prevent participation, and pose safety concerns due to distraction. The majority (80%) of participants supported changing the formal uniform to allow darker-colored riding pants. However, longstanding equestrian associations between white pants, prestige, and respect are a barrier to the adoption and therefore normalization of period-friendly attire. While discriminatory rules or standards need to be revised, they are insufficient to challenge entrenched gendered, socio-historical, and esthetic constructions of some organized sports. The authors therefore recommend that rule changes be supported by other practical and educational initiatives necessary to create period-friendly cultures for equestrian sport.
Broadly neutralizing antibodies for HIV prevention: a comprehensive review and future perspectives
Authors: Mahomed Sharana
Published: April 2024

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic remains a formidable global health concern, with 39 million people living with the virus and 1.3 million new infections reported in 2022. Despite anti-retroviral therapy’s effectiveness in pre-exposure prophylaxis, its global adoption is limited. Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) offer an alternative strategy for HIV prevention through passive immunization. Historically, passive immunization has been efficacious in the treatment of various diseases ranging from oncology to infectious diseases. Early clinical trials suggest bNAbs are safe, tolerable, and capable of reducing HIV RNA levels. Although challenges such as bNAb resistance have been noted in phase I trials, ongoing research aims to assess the additive or synergistic benefits of combining multiple bNAbs. Researchers are exploring bispecific and trispecific antibodies, and fragment crystallizable region modifications to augment antibody efficacy and half-life. Moreover, the potential of other antibody isotypes like IgG3 and IgA is under investigation. While promising, the application of bNAbs faces economic and logistical barriers. High manufacturing costs, particularly in resource-limited settings, and logistical challenges like cold-chain requirements pose obstacles. Preliminary studies suggest cost-effectiveness, although this is contingent on various factors like efficacy and distribution. Technological advancements and strategic partnerships may mitigate some challenges, but issues like molecular aggregation remain. The World Health Organization has provided preferred product characteristics for bNAbs, focusing on optimizing their efficacy, safety, and accessibility. The integration of bNAbs in HIV prophylaxis necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering economic, logistical, and scientific variables. This review comprehensively covers the historical context, current advancements, and future avenues of bNAbs in HIV prevention.
Tocilizumab demonstrates superiority in decreasing C-reactive protein levels in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, compared to standard care treatment alone
Authors: Calderón-Ochoa Carolina , Plamenov-Donchev Narek , Hernández-Quiñones Fernando , Mendoza-López Olga , Hinojos-Gallardo Luis Carlos , Longino-Gómez Asunción José , Hernádez-Saldaña Raúl , Duque-Rodríguez Jorge , Ishida-Gutiérrez María Cecilia
Published: April 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has caused a global pandemic, leading to health, economic, and political crisis. The virus triggers the activation of inflammatory reactants including interleukin-6 (IL-6), ferritin, and C-reactive protein (CRP), causing multiorgan damage, particularly affecting the lungs. Tocilizumab, an IL-6 receptor blocker, has the potential to diminish the progression of the disease and reduce organ damage and long-term complications. The aim of this observational retrospective cohort study was to evaluate the efficacy of tocilizumab in decreasing CRP levels in hospitalized coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients compared to standard care without the drug. The study included 141 patients during their Hospital Stay (HS), with 100 in the Tocilizumab group and 41 in the non-Tocilizumab group. Clinical information was collected from the electronic clinical record, analyzed using statistical software, and homogenized the CRP levels from the severe group to the levels of the less complicated group at 48 h of hospitalization. The results showed a statistically significant greater decrease in CRP levels in the Tocilizumab group at 48 h after the use of the treatment, with no differences in mortality or length of stay between the groups. In conclusion, tocilizumab accelerates the diminishing of CRP levels compared to standard treatment alone, and its use may have potential benefits in the management of severe COVID-19 patients when used alongside with follow-up quantification of CRP levels reduction.

IMPORTANCE

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has caused a global pandemic, leading to health, economic, and political crises. International guidelines for managing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) give recommendations according to the severity of the disease and the level of oxygen therapy needed. Tocilizumab is an option for the therapeutic management of hospitalized patients with any level of oxygen therapy; IL-6 serum level is the parameter for the follow-up on the efficacy, but it is not available at many hospitals. In this study, we demonstrate that C-reactive protein determination can predict the response to tocilizumab in severe COVID-19, the target patients for treatment with this drug. The use of this affordable and extensively available biomarker supports clinical decisions for the early escalation of the therapy and for the rational use of this drug on those prone to improve with the use of it.