bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geometric effects of fragmentation are likely to mitigate diversity loss following habitat destruction in real‐world landscapes
Authors: Smith Colleen , Bonachela Juan A. , Simpson Dylan T. , Lemanski Natalie J. , Winfree Rachael
Published: March 2024

Aim

Habitat conversion is the number one threat to biodiversity. The loss of biodiversity due to habitat loss might be exacerbated if species are harmed by fragmentation per se—the breaking apart of natural habitat that remains (hereafter fragmentation). However, the evidence that species are harmed by habitat fragmentation is mixed. Studies at the patch scale tend to show that fragmentation reduces diversity due to negative demographic effects on species' dispersal, survival and fecundity. In contrast, studies at the landscape scale tend to show that fragmentation increases diversity. This discrepancy may be partly due to geometric effects, defined as greater species turnover between patches in more fragmented landscapes. Although these effects have been demonstrated theoretically and are expected to be stronger across larger spatial extents, it is unclear whether they are likely to occur in real‐world settings with both realistic landscape patterns and communities. Here, we investigated the possibility of geometric effects using simulations combined with real‐world landscape and community data.

Location

New Jersey, northeastern USA.

Time period

Current.

Taxa studied

Bees.

Methods

We focused on landscape sizes within the typical range for protected areas (36–576 ha), simulated forest loss using real landscape patterns, and simulated forest‐bee communities based on field data we collected.

Results

We found weak but positive effects of fragmentation: immediately following forest destruction, the most fragmented forests harboured up to 7.3% more species than the least fragmented forests of the same area, in agreement with observational studies of biodiversity along fragmentation gradients. In contrast to expectations, however, the overall effects of fragmentation did not change with spatial extent.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that fragmentation can mitigate biodiversity loss immediately following habitat destruction, but that the benefits do not vary strongly with spatial extent in real‐world landscapes and at extents relevant to land management.
A unified framework for partitioning the drivers of stability of ecological communities
Authors: Segrestin Jules , Götzenberger Lars , Valencia Enrique , de Bello Francesco , Lepš Jan
Published: March 2024

Aim

Identifying the drivers of ecological stability is critical for ensuring the maintenance of ecosystem functioning and services, particularly in a changing world. Different ecological mechanisms by which biological communities stabilize ecosystem functions (i.e. “stabilizing effects”) have been proposed, yet with various theoretical expectations and debated conclusions. Here we propose a unified framework that aims at reconciling, and combining, different approaches to reliably test the strength of three stabilizing effects on the temporal constancy of ecosystem functions: the effects of (a) dominant species, (b) species asynchrony, and (c) diversity.

Innovation

Compared to existing developments the approach allows, for the first time, disentangling these three stabilizing effects at the level of individual communities. So far this was not possible, and conclusions depended on indirect tests and comparative analyses across communities. We also propose a graphical representation of the relative contributions of the three stabilizing effects on a ternary plot, allowing us to easily compare communities sampled in various ecological contexts in a standardized space.

Main conclusions

Our study answers the current need for a unified framework to link theoretical concepts on the temporal stability of ecological communities to data analysis. The present development promises flexible tests for a deeper understanding of the ecological stabilization of biodiversity and the relative importance of its components.
Transjugular approach in aspiration thrombectomy and angioplasty of a thrombosed straight arteriovenous graft compared to the direct hemodialysis access approach
Authors: Kwak JungWon , Cho Sung Bum , Jun Heungman , Chung Hwan Hoon , Park Sung‐Joon , Seo Tae‐Seok , Yang Woo Jin
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy and outcome of the transjugular approach in endovascular recanalization of a thrombosed straight arteriovenous graft (AVG) compared to those of the direct hemodialysis access approach (conventional approach).

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively assessed patients who underwent aspiration thrombectomy and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty for thrombosed straight AVG performed at a single institution between October 2006 and October 2021. A total of 138 thrombosed AVGs in 83 patients (39 male and 44 females) were divided into the transjugular approach group (Group A) and the conventional approach group (Group B). Technical and clinical success, postintervention primary patency, cumulative patency, and periprocedural complications were compared.

Results

There was no statistical difference in demographic data between groups A and B. The technical success rate of group A and B was 96.4% (80/83) and 98.2% 54/55, respectively (p > 0.05). The mean procedure time was 61.4 min (Group A) and 70.5 min (Group B) (p > 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in postintervention primary patency. The cumulative patency of Groups A and B was 911.9 days (range 122–6277) and 1062.3 days (range 72–2302 days), respectively (p > 0.05). One patient in Group B experienced a major graft rupture. Pseudoaneurysm formation at the sheath insertion site occurred in two patients in Group B. No cases of stenosis or thrombosis of the IJV or hematoma at the puncture site were observed in Group A.

Conclusion

The transjugular approach is as safe and effective as the conventional approach for aspiration thrombectomy and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of thrombosed straight AVGs.
Improving the performance of machine learning penicillin adverse drug reaction classification with synthetic data and transfer learning
Authors: Stanekova Viera , Inglis Joshua M. , Lam Lydia , Lam Antoinette , Smith William , Shakib Sepehr , Bacchi Stephen
Published: March 2024

Background

Machine learning may assist with the identification of potentially inappropriate penicillin allergy labels. Strategies to improve the performance of existing models for this task include the use of additional training data, synthetic data and transfer learning.

Aims

The aims of this study were to investigate the use of additional training data and novel machine learning strategies, namely synthetic data and transfer learning, to improve the performance of penicillin adverse drug reaction (ADR) machine learning classification.

Methods

Machine learning natural language processing was applied to free‐text penicillin ADR data extracted from a public health system electronic health record (EHR). The models were developed by training on various labelled data sets. ADR entries were split into training and testing data sets and used to develop and test a variety of machine learning models. The effect of training on additional data and synthetic data versus the use of transfer learning was analysed.

Results

Following the application of these techniques, the area under the receiver operator curve of best‐performing models for the classification of penicillin allergy (vs intolerance) and high‐risk allergy (vs low‐risk allergy) improved to 0.984 (using the artificial neural network model) and 0.995 (with the transfer learning approach) respectively.

Conclusions

Machine learning models demonstrate high levels of accuracy in the classification and risk stratification of penicillin ADR labels using the reaction documented in the EHR. The model can be further optimised by incorporating additional training data and using transfer learning. Practical applications include automating case detection for penicillin allergy delabelling programmes.
Crystal structure and microwave dielectric properties of Li2(Mg1–xCux)2Mo3O12 ceramics sintered at ultra‐low temperature
Authors: Yuan Qi , Meng Yutong , Wang Tao , Hu Wencai , Wang Sen , Liu Gaobin , Wang Qiyao , Song Kuoming , Zhao He , Yan Shuai , Li Xin
Published: March 2024

Li2(Mg1–xCux)2Mo3O12 (0 ≤x ≤0.1) ceramics were prepared using the conventional solid‐phase method to study the effect of the Cu2+ substitution for Mg2+ on the sintering behavior, crystal structure, and microwave dielectric properties of ceramics. The experimental results show that the substitution of Cu2+ for Mg2+ reduces the sintering temperature of the ceramics to 550°C. X‐ray diffraction patterns show that the introduction of Cu2+ does not produce a new phase, but rather promotes the formation of Li2(Mg1–xCux)2Mo3O12 solid solution. The microwave dielectric properties of the ceramics are influenced by the cell parameters, bond lengths, and structural stability. However, Cu2+ creates oxygen vacancies during sintering, thereby deteriorating the dielectric properties (Q × f decreases). The microwave dielectric properties of Li2(Mg1–xCux)2Mo3O12 ceramics are optimal at a sintering temperature of 550°C and x = 0.02, with εr = 9.17, Q × f = 7960 GHz, and τf = –58.77 ppm/°C. Additionally, these ceramics are compatible with Al electrodes.
High glucose promotes atherosclerosis by regulating miRNA let7d‐5p level
Authors: Wang Hua , Liu Fentao , Zhao Wenyu , Guo Yiting , Mai Peipei , Zhao Songfeng , Wen Zhiguo , Su Jie , Li Xuan , Wang Yunlong , Zhang Yanfang
Published: March 2024

Background

MiRNA let7d‐5p has been recently reported to be abnormally expressed in diabetes‐associated atherosclerosis (AS). However, it still remains unknown how let7d‐5p contributes to the process of atherosclerosis.

Methods

Twenty fresh tissues and a total of 28 wax block specimens from carotid endarterectomy procedures were obtained from the Luoyang Central Hospital affiliated to Zhengzhou University. The expression of let7d‐5p was assessed using quantitative RT‐PCR (qRT‐PCR). A series of in vitro experiments was used to determine the roles of let7d‐5p knockdown and overexpression in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).

Results

We discovered that the carotid plaques from diabetic patients had lower expression levels of miR let7d‐5p. In VSMCs, the expression of miRNA let7d‐5p was significantly lower in high glucose conditions compared with low glucose situations. The proliferation and migration of VSMCs were also inhibited by the overexpression of let7d‐5p, whereas the opposite was true when let7d‐5p was inhibited, according to gain and loss of function studies. Mechanically, let7d‐5p might activate the GSK3β/β‐catenin signaling pathway via binding to the high mobility group AT‐Hook 2 (HMGA2) mRNA in VSMCs. Additionally, GLP‐1RA liraglutide may prevent the migration and proliferation of VSMCs by raising let7d‐5p levels.

Conclusions

High glucose stimulated the proliferation and migration of VSMCs by regulating the let7d‐5p/HMGA2/GSK3β/β‐catenin pathway, and liraglutide may slow atherosclerosis by increasing the levels of miR let7d‐5p.
Clinical symptoms and histopathological changes in coho salmon affected by the erythrocytic inclusion body syndrome (EIBS) are caused by the infection of piscine orthoreovirus 2 (PRV‐2)
Authors: Takano Tomokazu , Miwa Satoshi , Matsuyama Tomomasa , Kiryu Ikunari , Honjo Miho , Sakai Takamitsu , Matsuura Yuta , Yamasaki Masatoshi , Kumagai Akira , Nakayasu Chihaya
Published: March 2024

The relationship of histopathological changes and the infection of Piscine orthoreovirus 2 (PRV‐2) was investigated in coho salmon that were suffering from the erythrocytic inclusion body syndrome (EIBS). Immunohistochemical observations revealed abundant σ1 protein of PRV‐2 in the spongy layer of the ventricle of the heart, where severe myocarditis was observed. In the spleen, the virus protein was detected in many erythrocytes, some of which were spherical‐shaped and apparently dead. The number of erythrocytes was decreased in the spleen compared to the apparently healthy fish. The virus protein was also detected in some erythrocytes in blood vessels. The viral protein was often detected in many macrophages ingesting erythrocytes or dead cell debris in the spleen or in the kidney sinusoids. Large amounts of the viral genomic segment L2 were also detected in these organs by RT‐qPCR. Many necrotic foci were found in the liver, although the virus protein was not detected in the hepatocytes. These results suggest that the primary targets of PRV‐2 are myocardial cells and erythrocytes and that clinical symptoms such as anaemia or jaundice and histopathological changes such as myocarditis in EIBS‐affected coho salmon are caused by PRV‐2 infection.
Assessment of subchondral bone microdamage quantification using contrast‐enhanced imaging techniques
Authors: Ayodele Babatunde A. , Malekipour Fatemeh , Pagel Charles N. , Mackie Eleanor J. , Whitton R. Chris
Published: March 2024

Bone microdamage is common at subchondral bone (SCB) sites subjected to repeated high rate and magnitude of loading in the limbs of athletic animals and humans. Microdamage can affect the biomechanical behaviour of bone under physiological loading conditions. To understand the effects of microdamage on the mechanical properties of SCB, it is important to be able to quantify it. The extent of SCB microdamage had been previously estimated qualitatively using plain microcomputed tomography (μCT) and a radiocontrast quantification method has been used for trabecular bone but this method may not be directly applicable to SCB due to differences in bone structure. In the current study, SCB microdamage detection using lead uranyl acetate (LUA) and quantification by contrast‐enhanced μCT and backscattered scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging techniques were assessed to determine the specificity of the labels to microdamage and the accuracy of damaged bone volume metrices. SCB specimens from the metacarpus of racehorses, with the hyaline articular cartilage (HAC) removed, were grouped into two with one group subjected to ex vivo uniaxial compression loading to create experimental bone damage. The other group was not loaded to preserve the pre‐existing in vivo propagated bone microdamage. A subset of each group was stained with LUA using an established or a modified protocol to determine label penetration into SCB. The μCT and SEM images of stained specimens showed that penetration of LUA into the SCB was better using the modified protocol, and this protocol was repeated in SCB specimens with intact hyaline articular cartilage. The percentage of total label localised to bone microdamage was determined on SEM images, and the estimated labelled bone volume determined by μCT in SCB groups was compared. Label was present around diffuse and linear microdamage as well as oblique linear microcracks present at the articular surface, except in microcracks with high‐density mineral infills. Bone surfaces lining pores with recent mineralisation were also labelled. Labelled bone volume fraction (LV/BV) estimated by μCT was higher in the absence of HAC. At least 50% of total labels were localised to bone microdamage when the bone area fraction (B.Ar/T.Ar) of the SCB was greater than 0.85 but less than 30% when B.Ar/T.Ar of the SCB was less than 0.85. To adjust for LUA labels on bone surfaces, a measure of the LV/BV corrected for bone surface area (LV/BV BS−1) was used to quantify damaged SCB. In conclusion, removal of HAC and using a modified labelling protocol effectively stained damaged SCB of the metacarpus of racehorses and represents a technique useful for quantifying microdamage in SCB. This method can facilitate future investigations of the effects of microdamage on joint physiology.
Dietary inclusion of micelle silymarin enhances egg production, quality, and lowers blood cholesterol in Hy‐line brown laying hens
Authors: Khan Sharif Uddin , Jeon Yong Hwee , Kim In Ho
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of micelle silymarin (MS) supplementation on productive performance, egg quality, and blood biochemical parameters in laying hens. A total of 384 (Hy‐Line brown, 28‐week‐old) laying hens were randomly distributed into one of four dietary treatment groups (eight replication per treatment; 12 hens per replicate) for a 12‐week long feeding trial. Hens were fed a basal diet with the addition of 0%, 0.02%, 0.04%, and 0.06% of MS respectively. The results expressed that egg production percentage and egg weight were linearly (p < 0.05) enhanced at Weeks 0–6, 7–12, and 0–12, when 0%, 0.02%, 0.04%, and 0.06% of MS were added to laying hen diets. The feed conversion ratio and feed intake improved (p < 0.05) linearly at Weeks 0–6, 7–12, and 0–12 with increasing levels of MS supplementation in laying hens. The eggshell thickness and eggshell strength were linearly (p < 0.05) improved at weeks 4, 8, and 12 with an MS‐supplemented diet. Additionally, eggshell colour, Haugh unit, and albumin height had no significant (p > 0.05) difference throughout the experimental period with different levels of MS‐supplemented diet. The yolk colour of eggs showed significant (p < 0.05) differences at weeks 8 and 12 with levels of the MS‐supplemented diet. However, at the end of the trial, the blood profile indicated that cholesterol levels decreased (p < 0.05) linearly, and triglyceride levels showed a tendency to decrease (p < 0.10) with MS supplementation. In conclusion, increasing the level of MS addition in the laying hen diet improved the egg production percentage and egg quality, reducing cholesterol levels in Hy‐Line brown hens. However, this study indicates that MS can be added to the diet of laying hens up to 0.06% for improved egg production and egg quality.
ZNF862 induces cytostasis and apoptosis via the p21‐RB1 and Bcl‐xL‐Caspase 3 signaling pathways in human gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Zhu Yaoyao , Zhao Tian , Wu Yongkang , Xie Sijing , Sun Weibin , Wu Juan
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study investigates the effects of ZNF862 on the proliferation and apoptosis of human gingival fibroblasts and their related mechanisms.

Background

As a major transcription factor family, zinc finger proteins (ZFPs) regulate cell differentiation, growth, and apoptosis through their conserved zinc finger motifs, which allow high flexibility and specificity in gene regulation. In our previous study, ZNF862 mutation was associated with hereditary gingival fibromatosis. Nevertheless, little is known about the biological function of ZNF862. Therefore, this study was aimed to reveal intracellular localization of ZNF862, the influence of ZNF862 on the growth and apoptosis of human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and its potential related mechanisms.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence staining, and western blotting were performed to determine the intracellular localization of ZNF862 in HGFs. HGFs were divided into three groups: ZNF862 overexpression group, ZNF862 interference group, and the empty vector control group. Then, the effects of ZNF862 on cell proliferation, migration, cell cycle, and apoptosis were evaluated. qRT‐PCR and western blotting were performed to further explore the mechanism related to the proliferation and apoptosis of HGFs.

Results

ZNF862 was found to be localized in the cytoplasm of HGFs. In vitro experiments revealed that ZNF862 overexpression inhibited HGFs proliferation and migration, induced cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1‐phase and apoptosis. Whereas, ZNF862 knockdown promoted HGFs proliferation and migration, accelerated the transition from the G0/G1 phase into the S and G2/M phase and inhibited cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, the effects of ZNF862 on HGFs proliferation and apoptosis were noted to be dependent on inhibiting the cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (p21)‐retinoblastoma 1 (RB1) signaling pathway and enhancing the B‐cell lymphoma‐extra‐large (Bcl‐xL)‐Caspase 3 signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Our results for the first time reveal that ZNF862 is localized in the cytoplasm of HGFs. ZNF862 can inhibit the proliferation of HGFs by inhibiting the p21‐RB1 signaling pathway, and it also promotes the apoptosis of HGFs by enhancing the Bcl‐xL‐Caspase 3 signaling pathway.
Clinical findings and outcome in goats with discospondylitis and vertebral osteomyelitis
Authors: Sullivan Alyssa , Huguet Elodie , VanderBroek Ashley R. , Darby Shannon , Luethy Daniela
Published: March 2024

Background

Vertebral infections, including vertebral osteomyelitis, septic physitis, and discospondylitis, are rarely reported in goats, and when reported, have been largely limited to necropsy case reports.

Objective

Describe clinical findings and outcome in goats with vertebral infections evaluated by computed tomography (CT).

Animals

Five goats with vertebral osteomyelitis, septic physitis, and discospondylitis evaluated by CT.

Methods

Retrospective case series.

Results

The most common presenting complaints were progressive weakness, paresis and recumbency. Three goats were tetraparetic and 2 goats had pelvic limb paraparesis. Clinicopathologic findings included leukocytosis, mature neutrophilia, and hyperfibrinogenemia. The most common vertebrae affected were C7‐T1. All 5 goats had discospondylitis with or without vertebral osteomyelitis and septic physitis. Computed tomographic evidence of spinal cord compression was present in 4/5 goats. Medical management (antimicrobials, physical therapy, analgesia, supportive care) was attempted in 4 goats, and 1 goat was euthanized at the time of diagnosis. All 4 goats that were treated regained ambulatory ability and survived to hospital discharge.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Despite severity of CT imaging findings, goats with discospondylitis, septic physitis, and vertebral osteomyelitis can successfully return to ambulatory function. Additional studies are required to determine ideal treatment regimens.
Practice framework theorizing in correctional rehabilitation: Lessons from constitutive penology
Authors: Arrigo Bruce A.
Published: March 2024

This paper applies key insights from constitutive penology to advance the practice framework literature in correctional rehabilitation. First, I provide some brief commentary on the origins and subsequent development of constitutive thought in studies of governance, crime and justice. Second, I outline the central ontological convictions and epistemological commitments of constitutive penology. Third, I explain where and how the ontic and epistemic ‘lessons’ of constitutive penology contribute to the conversation about practice framework theory and therapeutic practice in correctional rehabilitation. These comments especially emphasize the importance of (a) rethinking the responsibility of theory in therapeutic practice; (b) reframing the method of study in the practice of therapy and (c) repurposing the practice guidelines for undertaking therapeutic work.
Responses of keratinocytes to Trichophyton mentagrophyte infection based on whole transcriptome analysis
Authors: Zang Fangfang , Wang Zhangxu , Yang Yuanxue , Xiao Ziyao , Wu Zhaodan , Zhang Jia , Li Bishibei , Zheng Jiayu , Zhu Xixi , Wan Ying , Wang Ran , Xiao Wudian
Published: March 2024

Background

Dermatophytosis is an intractable superficial mycosis in humans and animals mainly caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes (T. mentagrophytes), with a global prevalence of about 20%. Keratinocytes are the most abundant participants in skin immunity, and they also play a role in the first‐line defence against T. mentagrophytes. However, no studies of keratinocyte responses against T. mentagrophytes infection based on the whole transcriptome have been reported.

Objectives

Here, we systematically analysed changes in keratinocytes infected with T. mentagrophytes using whole transcriptome sequencing technology.

Methods

The phenotypic changes in keratinocytes after infection with 1 × 105 conidia/mL T. mentagrophytes were observed by light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling. RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐seq), small RNA‐seq technology and related bioinformatics methods were used to systematically analyse the whole transcriptome changes in keratinocytes upon T. mentagrophytes stimulation.

Results

We found that T. mentagrophytes infection caused morphological changes, membrane damage, the formation of irregular organelles and keratinocyte apoptosis. A total of 204 differentially expressed (DE) circular RNAs (circRNAs), 868 DE long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), 2973 DE mRNAs and 209 DE micro RNAs (miRNAs) were identified between noninfected and T. mentagrophytes‐infected keratinocytes. The expression level of selected RNAs was validated by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Functional enrichment analysis revealed that the parental genes of DE circRNAs were related to cell response, cell death and establishment of the skin barrier. Genes targeted by miRNA were involved in regulating the initiation of the immune response. Based on the expression level of circRNAs, lncRNAs, mRNAs and miRNAs, circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA competing endogenous (ceRNA) networks comprised of 159 DE miRNAs, 141 DE circRNAs and 2307 DE mRNAs, and lncRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA ceRNA networks comprised of 790 DE lncRNAs, 190 DE miRNAs and 2663 DE mRNAs were constructed. The reliability of two selected ceRNA networks was verified using qRT‐PCR. Further functional enrichment analysis revealed that the DE mRNAs interacting with circRNAs and lncRNAs in the ceRNA network mainly participated in fungal recognition, inflammation, the innate immune response and the death of keratinocytes.

Conclusions

Our findings might provide new evidence on the pathogenesis of T. mentagrophytes‐induced dermatophytosis, which is essential for identifying new therapeutic targets for dermatophytosis treatment.
Biological nitrogen fixation maintains carbon/nitrogen balance and photosynthesis at elevated CO2
Authors: Brooks Matthew D. , Szeto Ronnia C.
Published: March 2024

Understanding crop responses to elevated CO2 is necessary to meet increasing agricultural demands. Crops may not achieve maximum potential yields at high CO2 due to photosynthetic downregulation, often associated with nitrogen limitation. Legumes have been proposed to have an advantage at elevated CO2 due to their ability to exchange carbon for nitrogen. Here, the effects of biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) on the physiological and gene expression responses to elevated CO2 were examined at multiple nitrogen levels by comparing alfalfa mutants incapable of nitrogen fixation to wild‐type. Elemental analysis revealed a role for BNF in maintaining shoot carbon/nitrogen (C/N) balance under all nitrogen treatments at elevated CO2, whereas the effect of BNF on biomass was only observed at elevated CO2 and the lowest nitrogen dose. Lower photosynthetic rates at were associated with the imbalance in shoot C/N. Genome‐wide transcriptional responses were used to identify carbon and nitrogen metabolism genes underlying the traits. Transcription factors important to C/N signalling were identified from inferred regulatory networks. This work supports the hypothesis that maintenance of C/N homoeostasis at elevated CO2 can be achieved in plants capable of BNF and revealed important regulators in the underlying networks including an alfalfa (Golden2‐like) GLK ortholog.
Changes in severity of pediatric suicide attempts before and after coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Saito Takumi , Ogiwara Shigetoshi , Wada Soichiro , Tamura Takuya
Published: March 2024

Background

The recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic and school closures were reported to have negatively impacted the mental health of children and adolescents. This study aimed to examine the change in the number and severity of pediatric suicide attempts before and after the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

This study enrolled 54 patients (26 vs. 28 patients before and after the COVID‐19 pandemic, respectively) under 19 years of age who were transported to the emergency department as a result of suicide attempts between April 2017 and December 2021. The primary outcome includes the rate of serious suicide attempts (SSAs).

Results

The SSA rates were 19% (5/26) and 43% (12/28) before and after the COVID‐19 pandemic, respectively (p = 0.62). The average number of transported suicide attempts per month almost doubled (0.72 vs. 1.33, respectively) and suicide attempts as a percentage of all ambulance transportations of individuals under 19 years old increased significantly from 0.95% (26/2729)to 1.98% (28/1414) (p = 0.006).

Conclusions

The COVID‐19 pandemic increased the severity of pediatric suicide attempts but not to a statistically significant degree. Social preventive support and early psychological intervention are therefore needed currently and in the future.
Sterols of the aberrant plastid, Kareniacean dinoflagellate Asterodinium gracile: Chemotaxonomic overlap with amphisterol‐producing Amphidinium carterae
Authors: Leblond Jeffrey D. , Sabir Kyra , Ayoub Daniel , McKinnon Mackenzie B. , Myers Chelsea S. , Busari Tawakalit J. , Hollingsworth Braedyn E.
Published: March 2024

Dinoflagellates have a rich history of characterization of their membrane‐reinforcing sterols because of a structural diversity and chemotaxonomic utility uncommon to other classes of algae. The Kareniaceae are no exception in that they produce sterols, often containing a Δ8(14) nuclear unsaturation, which are rare in most other dinoflagellate groups. A continuing goal of our laboratory is to examine the sterols of previously uncharacterized dinoflagellates to assess their sterol‐based chemotaxonomy compared to other members of the Dinophyceae. Asterodinium gracile, a member of the Kareniaceae, has not been commercially available for study until recently. To this end, our objective was to characterize the sterols of A. gracile to determine whether they match the 4α‐methyl‐substituted, Δ8(14)‐nuclear‐unsaturated sterols, such as (24R)‐4α‐methyl‐5α‐ergosta‐8(14),22‐dien‐3β‐ol (gymnodinosterol; C29:2) and 27‐nor‐(24R)‐4α‐methyl‐5α‐ergosta‐8(14),22‐dien‐3β‐ol (brevesterol; C28:2), of most species within the canonical genera Karenia, Karlodinium and Takayama, or instead the 4‐desmethyl sterols, such as 27‐nor‐(24R)‐23‐methyl‐ergosta‐8(14),22‐dien‐3β‐ol (C28:2), of its chemotaxonomically atypical, yet closest phylogenetic relative, Karenia papilionacea. We have observed A. gracile to produce two 4α‐methyl‐substituted sterols with the suggested structures of 4α‐methyl‐5α‐ergosta‐8(14)‐en‐3β‐ol (C29:1) and 4α‐methyl‐5α‐ergosta‐8(14),24(28)‐dien‐3β‐ol (amphisterol, C29:2), as major sterols amongst five other minor sterols, which included the common dinoflagellate sterol cholest‐5‐en‐3β‐ol (cholesterol, C27:1), but did not include gymnodinosterol or brevesterol (as in most canonical Kareniaceae) or 27‐nor‐(24R)‐23‐methyl‐ergosta‐8(14),22‐dien‐3β‐ol (as found in K. papilionacea). Detection of amphisterol and 4α‐methyl‐5α‐ergosta‐8(14)‐en‐3β‐ol is notable because they are sterols associated with some species of Amphidinium, such as Amphidinium carterae, and, to our knowledge, have not been observed in a member of the Kareniaceae before. Discovery of these major sterols in A. gracile expands our knowledge of the range of sterols produced by the Kareniaceae and indicates a shared chemotaxonomy with some species of Amphidinium.
Nurses' organizational climate of perceived organizational support and its relationships with psychosocial working conditions and psychological contracts: A longitudinal questionnaire study
Authors: Larsman Pernilla , Pousette Anders , Törner Marianne
Published: March 2024

Objective

The aim of the present study was to investigate the longitudinal relationships between nurses' organizational climate of perceived organizational support (POS‐climate) and their psychosocial working conditions and psychological contracts.

Methods

A two‐wave longitudinal cohort questionnaire study was carried out among registered nurses employed within six hospitals in two regions in Sweden (n = 711). Two cross‐lagged panel models were tested after ensuring scalar factorial invariance of the measurement models. The first model investigated longitudinal relationships between psychosocial working conditions and the POS‐climate, while the second model investigated such relationships between the psychological contracts and the POS‐climate.

Results

The results indicated that influence at work and an ideology‐infused psychological contract had positive effects on the nurses' POS‐climate.

Conclusions

These results highlight the importance of providing nurses with such influence, and of a shared ideology within the entire health‐care organization, centered on the ethical values of the health‐care professions.
Pesticide exposure and risk of cholangiocarcinoma: A hospital‐based matched case–control study
Authors: Pugkhem Ake , Kamsa‐ard Supot , Kamsa‐ard Siriporn , Luvira Vor , Luvira Varisara , Bhudhisawasdi Vajarabhongsa
Published: March 2024

Background

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) caused by Opisthorchis viverrini is a well‐known and significant public health issue in northeastern Thailand; however, a link between pesticide exposure (PE) and CCA risk has not yet been established. Therefore, our research objective was to investigate the relationship between PE and CCA risk.

Methods

A hospital‐based matched case–control study was carried out. All cases (in‐patients) and controls (out‐patients) were volunteers at a tertiary hospital in northeast Thailand. Between 2015 and 2019, 178 incident cases of pathologically‐confirmed CCA and 356 controls were selected from the check‐up clinic from the Srinagarind Hospital outpatient database (two controls per case). The recruited controls were individually‐matched to the CCA cases based on sex, age (±5 years) and admission date (±3 months). During face‐to‐face interviews, a standardised pre‐tested questionnaire was used to collect data. Multivariable conditional logistic regression was used to analyse the data.

Results

The respective frequency of PE between the 178 CCA cases and 356 controls was 77.0% versus 87.6% for never used, 14.6% versus 5.3% for have used but stopped and 8.4% versus 7.0% for currently using. After adjusting for the highest educational attainment, smoking behaviour, alcohol use and family history of cancer, PE was not significantly associated with CCA (p‐value = 0.086). Using volunteers who have never used PE as the reference group, the respective odds of developing CCA for those who have ever used but have since stopped and are currently using was 2.04 (adjusted OR = 2.04; 95% CI: 1.03–4.04) versus 0.83 (adjusted OR = 0.83; 95% CI: 0.39–1.76) times more likely to develop CCA than those who had never used PE.

Conclusion

There is no association between PE and the risk of CCA. Notwithstanding the finding, future research should focus on enhancing PE assessment methods that consider complex chemical mixtures, chemicals of interest, historical exposure and exposure pathways. Moreover, there is need for more extensive and longer population‐based cohort studies that include younger, non‐occupationally exposed individuals during periods of developmental susceptibility.
Decreasing parvovirus B19 and hepatitis A nucleic acid test positivity rates in Canadian plasma donors following the initiation of COVID‐19 restriction in March 2020
Authors: Drews Steven J. , Charlton Carmen , O'Brien Sheila F. , Burugu Samantha , Denomme Gregory A.
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives

In Canada, plasma sent for fractionation is tested for both parvovirus B19 (B19V) and hepatitis A virus (HAV). This study compared positivity rates of B19 and HAV nucleic acid tests (NATs) in Canadian plasma samples for the pre‐COVID‐19 restriction era (2015 to end of February 2020 [Q1] 2020) and the post‐COVID‐19 restriction era.

Materials and Methods

Pooled EDTA plasma specimens were tested within 24 months of blood draw using the Procleix Panther System (Grifols Diagnostic Solutions Inc, San Diego, CA, USA) for B19V and HAV detection. Reactive pools were resolved by individual specimen testing.

Results

Between 1 January 2015, and 31 March 2022, 3,928,619 specimens from Canadian plasma donors were tested for B19V. For the same period, 3,922,954 specimens were tested for HAV. To account for a lag in specimen testing for up to 24 months, the data were divided into: (1) a pre‐pandemic period (1 January 2015–31 March 2020; B19V tested n = 2,412,701, B19V NAT‐positive n = 240 [0.01%], HAV tested n = 2,407,036, HAV NAT‐positive n = 26 [0.001%]); (2) a two‐year mixed‐impact period (1 April 2020–31 March 2022; B19V tested n = 968,250, B19V NAT‐positive n = 14 [0.001%], HAV tested n = 968,250, HAV NAT‐positive n = 2 [0.0002%]); and (3) a pandemic‐impact period (1 April 2022–31 March, 2023; B19V tested n = 597,668, B19V NAT‐positive n = 3 [0.0005%], HAV tested n = 597,668, HAV NAT‐positive n = 1 [0.0002%]).

Conclusion

The percentage of B19V‐ and HAV‐positive donations was significantly reduced from the pre‐pandemic period to the pandemic‐impact period.
Spatio‐temporal epidemiology of Japanese encephalitis virus infection in pig populations of eastern Uttar Pradesh, India, 2013–2022
Authors: Dhanze Himani , Singh Balbir B. , Walsh Michael , Kumar M. Suman , Kumar Amit , Bhilegaonkar Kiran N. , Brookes Victoria J.
Published: March 2024

Aims

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is endemic in India. Although pigs are considered important hosts and sentinels for JE outbreaks in people, limited information is available on JE virus (JEV) surveillance in pigs.

Methods and Results

We investigated the spatio‐temporal distribution of JEV seroprevalence and its association with climate variables in 4451 samples from pigs in 10 districts of eastern Uttar Pradesh, India, over 10 years from 2013 to 2022. The mean seroprevalence of IgG (2013–2022) and IgM (2017–2022) was 14% (95% CI 12.8–15.2) and 10.98% (95% CI 9.8–12.2), respectively. Throughout the region, higher seroprevalence from 2013 to 2017 was observed and was highly variable with no predictable spatio‐temporal pattern between districts. Seroprevalence of up to 60.8% in Sant Kabir Nagar in 2016 and 69.5% in Gorakhpur district in 2017 for IgG and IgM was observed, respectively. IgG seroprevalence did not increase with age. Monthly time‐series decomposition of IgG and IgM seroprevalence demonstrated annual cyclicity (3–4 peaks) with seasonality (higher, broader peaks in the summer and monsoon periods). However, most variance was due to the overall trend and the random components of the time series. Autoregressive time‐series modelling of pigs sampled from Gorakhpur was insufficiently predictive for forecasting; however, an inverse association between humidity (but not rainfall or temperature) was observed.

Conclusions

Detection patterns confirm seasonal epidemic periods within year‐round endemicity in pigs in eastern Uttar Pradesh. Lack of increasing age‐associated seroprevalence indicates that JEV might not be immunizing in pigs which needs further investigation because models that inform public health interventions for JEV could be inaccurate if assuming long‐term immunity in pigs. Although pigs are considered sentinels for human outbreaks, sufficient timeliness using sero‐surveillance in pigs to inform public health interventions to prevent JEV in people will require more nuanced modelling than seroprevalence and broad climate variables alone.
Generating the homology of covers of surfaces
Authors: Boggi Marco , Putman Andrew , Salter Nick
Published: March 2024

Putman and Wieland conjectured that if is a finite branched cover between closed oriented surfaces of sufficiently high genus, then the orbits of all nonzero elements of under the action of lifts to of mapping classes on are infinite. We prove that this holds if is generated by the homology classes of lifts of simple closed curves on . We also prove that the subspace of spanned by such lifts is a symplectic subspace. Finally, simple closed curves lie on subsurfaces homeomorphic to 2‐holed spheres, and we prove that is generated by the homology classes of lifts of loops on lying on subsurfaces homeomorphic to 3‐holed spheres.
Dispersal stabilizes coupled ecological and evolutionary dynamics in a host-parasitoid system
Authors: Nell Lucas A. , Kishinevsky Miriam , Bosch Michael J. , Sinclair Calvin , Bhat Karuna , Ernst Nathan , Boulaleh Hamze , Oliver Kerry M. , Ives Anthony R.
Published: March 2024

When ecological and evolutionary dynamics occur on comparable timescales, persistence of the ensuing eco-evolutionary dynamics requires both ecological and evolutionary stability. This unites key questions in ecology and evolution: How do species coexist, and what maintains genetic variation in a population? In this work, we investigated a host-parasitoid system in which pea aphid hosts rapidly evolve resistance to
Aphidius ervi
parasitoids. Field data and mathematical simulations showed that heterogeneity in parasitoid dispersal can generate variation in parasitism-mediated selection on hosts through time and space. Experiments showed how evolutionary trade-offs plus moderate host dispersal across this selection mosaic cause host-parasitoid coexistence and maintenance of genetic variation in host resistance. Our results show how dispersal can stabilize both the ecological and evolutionary components of eco-evolutionary dynamics.
Big data in Earth science: Emerging practice and promise
Authors: Vance Tiffany C. , Huang Thomas , Butler Kevin A.
Published: March 2024

Improvements in the number and resolution of Earth- and satellite-based sensors coupled with finer-resolution models have resulted in an explosion in the volume of Earth science data. This data-rich environment is changing the practice of Earth science, extending it beyond discovery and applied science to new realms. This Review highlights recent big data applications in three subdisciplines—hydrology, oceanography, and atmospheric science. We illustrate how big data relate to contemporary challenges in science: replicability and reproducibility and the transition from raw data to information products. Big data provide unprecedented opportunities to enhance our understanding of Earth’s complex patterns and interactions. The emergence of digital twins enables us to learn from the past, understand the current state, and improve the accuracy of future predictions.
Reverse EU’s growing greenlash
Authors: Chapron Guillaume
Published: March 2024

After several weeks of violent protests, European farmers have achieved a tactical triumph that does not bode well for the future of environmental policies. In response to the demonstrations, the European Commission has enacted a derogation in the European Union’s (EU’s) Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to set aside 4% of farmland for biodiversity and landscape protection, withdrawn a bill to halve pesticide use, removed a target to reduce agriculture emissions by 30% by 2040, and called for further changes in the CAP to loosen environmental requirements. These retreats reflect a lack of political commitment to policies aimed at greening European agriculture. Appeasing this “greenlash” surely will not help Europe meet its environmental and climate challenges.
The fading memories of youth
Authors: Reardon Sara
Published: March 2024

The mystery of “infantile amnesia” suggests memory works differently in the developing brain
Efforts to screen kids for type 1 diabetes multiply
Authors: Couzin-Frankel Jennifer
Published: March 2024

Blood tests can detect the disease process early, avoiding complications and aiding treatment
Seafloor fiber-optic cables become sensor stations
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: March 2024

“Smart cables” will detect earthquakes, tsunamis, and global warming
Erratum to: Brillouin Scattering Study of Gelatin Films with Different Water Concentrations
Authors: Laktionova A. V. , Dobrynina E. A. , Zykova V. A. , Surovtsev N. V.
Published: March 2024

An Erratum to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1134/S1062873824010027
Estimating the economic burden of stroke in China: a cost-of-illness study
Authors: Ma Jingdong , Tian Zeshi , Chai Peipei , Wan Quan , Zhai Tiemin , Guo Feng , Li Yan
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Stroke imposes a heavy economic burden and loss of productivity on individuals and society. This study assessed a range of crucial factors, including direct costs and indirect costs, to gauge the economic implications of stroke in China. These outcomes were evaluated with specific reference to the year 2018, using the Chinese yuan (¥) as the unit of measurement and providing the corresponding purchasing power parity dollar ($PPP) currency value.

Methods

A cost-of-illness methodology was used to ascertain the economic implications of stroke in 2018. Within the constraints of this approach, economic costs were defined as ‘direct costs’ or ‘indirect costs’. We estimated direct costs from sample data, the National Health Service Survey and theNational Health Account and Health Statistical Yearbook. A human capital method was used to conservatively estimate indirect costs.

Results

In 2018, of the economic burden of stroke in China, the direct costs were ¥247.8 billion ($PPP 58.6 billion) and indirect costs were ¥704.4 billion ($PPP 166.5 billion). The curative care expenditure for stroke was ¥193.1 billion ($PPP 45.7 billion), consuming nearly 5.5% of curative expenditure. The cost of stroke treatment relied heavily on public financing, with 58% from social health insurance and 14% from government sources.

Conclusions

A significant economic burden is imposed by stroke on China’s economy, and there is a risk of underestimating this burden if indirect costs are not comprehensively considered. The importance of implementing effective preventive measures and screening strategies for stroke, with a particular focus on high-risk populations, is underscored by this study’s findings. Such investments in public health have the potential to yield substantial benefits.
Low-value MRI of the knee in Norway: a register-based study to identify the proportion of potentially low-value MRIs and estimate the related costs
Authors: Hofmann Bjørn , Håvik Vegard , Andersen Eivind Richter , Brandsæter Ingrid Øfsti , Kjelle Elin
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study is to investigate the proportion of potentially low-value knee MRI in Norway and to provide an estimate of the related costs.

Design

Register study based on conditional data extraction and analysis of data from Control and Reimbursement of Healthcare Claims registry in Norway.

Setting

MRI in public specialist healthcare with universal health coverage (Norway).

Participants

48 212 MRIs for 41 456 unique patients and 45 946 reimbursement claims.

Outcome measures

Proportion of MRIs of the knee that (1) did not have a relevant tentative diagnosis prior to the knee MRI, (2) did not have a relevant alternative image of the knee before the MRI or (3) did not have a relevant code from the specialist care within 6 months after the MRI, and those that had combinations of 1, 2 and 3. Estimated costs for those that had combinations of 1, 2 and 3.

Results

Very few patients (6.4%) had a relevant diagnosis code or prior imaging examination when having the MRI and only 14.6% got a knee-related diagnosis code from the specialist care within 6 months after the MRI. 21.8% of the patients had knee X-ray, CT or ultrasound within 6 months before the MRI. Between 58% and 85% of patients having knee MRIs in Norway have no relevant examinations or diagnoses six months prior to or after the MRI examination. These examinations are unlikely to benefit patients and they correspond to between 24 108 and 35 416 MRIs at a cost of €6.7–€9.8 million per year.

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of MRIs of the knee in Norway have no relevant examinations or diagnoses before or after the MRI and are potentially of low value. Reducing low-value MRIs could free resources for high-value imaging, reduce waiting times, improve the quality of care and increase patient safety and professional integrity.