bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation, identification, and community diversity of microorganisms during tank fermentation of Liupao tea
Authors: Long Junyao , Yu Lian , Huang Li , Xia Ning , Teng Jianwen , Wei Baoyao
Published: August 2023

Tank fermentation is a novel approach to fermenting teas; however, the species of microorganisms present remain unclear. The microbial community composition of Liupao tea at various stages of tank fermentation was analyzed using high‐throughput sequencing. Sphingomonas, Aquabacterium, Pelomonas, Acinetobacter, Blastobotrys, Aspergillus, Debaryomyces, and Aureobasidium were the predominant genera, which is different from pile fermentation. Fifteen genera (including Lactobacillus, Debaryomyces, Candida, Allobaculum, Flavobacterium, Caulobacter, Blastobotrys, Aspergillus, and Rasamsonia) were identified as biomarkers. PICRUSt analysis predicted that the most abundant functional genes were related to metabolism of carbohydrates, amino acids, cofactors, vitamins, and other secondary metabolites. Using the pure culture method, 283 strains were isolated at various stages of fermentation, representing 20 genera and 29 species of bacteria, and 11 genera and 18 species of fungi. Most of the dominant Sphingomonas, Staphylococcus, Aspergillus, and Blastobotrys identified by sequencing were also isolated. Of these, Sphingomonas olei, Aspergillus luchuensis, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus aculeatus, Aspergillus amstelodami, Blastobotrys adeninivorans, Candida metapsilosis, and Candida blankii were beneficial strains that might be used to ferment Liupao tea. This study provides a basis for the development of processing technologies and utilization of microbial strains in the production of dark teas.

Practical Application

Microbial diversity in tank-fermented Liupao tea was reported for the first time.

8 microorganisms were the predominant genera.

The species, functions and potential risks of microorganisms was revealed.

We clarified the differences between tank and pile fermentation.
Knowledge and the Picturesque: Encountering Syria in the Eighteenth Century
Authors: Tadié Alexis
Published: August 2023

This essay looks at the West's engagement with Syria in the eighteenth century, through the writings of travellers and through the history of the publications they brought back from their travels. It argues that these publications provoked a rethinking of various tropes in the description of the Levant, helping to define attitudes to ruins as well as providing a model for thinking about the customs of the inhabitants of that part of the world. It shows the growing awareness for knowledge about the province. It looks in particular at the place of Palmyra through the writings of Wood and Volney and of Aleppo through the Natural History of Aleppo, written by the Russell brothers, who were both physicians and naturalists and who studied the effects of the plague in Aleppo.
Hybrid warfare and disinformation: A Ukraine war perspective
Authors: Dov Bachmann Sascha‐Dominik , Putter Dries , Duczynski Guy
Published: August 2023

Misinformation, disinformation and mal information are part of the information disorder construct, dominating the information warfare domain. These are key enablers associated with grey zone operations, and an integral part of current adversaries' and competitors' hybrid warfare tool kit. Disinformation, in combination with influence operations, also plays an important role within the concept of hybrid warfare; both from a threat–and own resilience perspective. This article reflects on these information warfare tools and their application by Russia in the current Russo‐Ukraine war, offering potentially considerable force multipliers in the information domain for the Russian aggressor. Hybrid warfare and associated threats, specifically focusing on aspects of information warfare, disinformation, deception (typically within the context of political activity or warfare so commonly associated with Russian active measures) and as part of an adversary's grey zone operations approach are all discussed raising awareness towards building resilience by means of a comprehensive approach to counter such threats to national security.
Auditor judgment in the fourth industrial revolution
Authors: Samiolo Rita , Spence Crawford , Toh Dorothy
Published: August 2023

Discourse proclaiming the advent of a fourth industrial revolution predicts significant disruption to various work domains in the near future. Auditing is one of the domains where bold claims about the potential of technology are being made, with technology expected to augment auditors' judgments and, in time, possibly automate them. Drawing on 44 in‐depth interviews with auditors, regulators, and emergent artificial intelligence software providers, we question the prevailing narrative around technological change in auditing which suggests that ostensibly simple, low‐level technical tasks are areas where little judgment is at play and thus are ripe for automation. We show that significant elements of deliberation, sensemaking, and reflexivity, arguably critical for the socialization of early career auditors into the profession, may be lost when automating areas of work perceived as low value, leading us to question what it means to apply judgment in auditing. Conversely, higher‐level aspects of the audit process may be assisted by technology and augmented in different ways, yet new technological structures generate new areas of indeterminacy that pose new and yet unresolved demands on auditors' judgment. Overall, the paper shows how auditor habits are changing and highlights the risks posed by new technologies to the acquisition of practical knowledge by auditors.
Membrane phospholipid peroxidation promotes loss of dopaminergic neurons in psychological stress‐induced Parkinson's disease susceptibility
Authors: Lin Xiao‐Min , Pan Ming‐Hai , Sun Jie , Wang Meng , Huang Zi‐Han , Wang Guan , Wang Rong , Gong Hai‐Biao , Huang Rui‐Ting , Huang Feng , Sun Wan‐Yang , Liu Hai‐Zhi , Kurihara Hiroshi , Li Yi‐Fang , Duan Wen‐Jun , He Rong‐Rong
Published: August 2023

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder associated with α‐synuclein aggregation and dopaminergic neuron loss in the midbrain. There is evidence that psychological stress promotes PD progression by enhancing glucocorticoids‐related oxidative damage, however, the mechanisms involved are unknown. The present study demonstrated that plasma membrane phospholipid peroxides, as determined by phospholipidomics, triggered ferroptosis in dopaminergic neurons, which in turn contributed to stress exacerbated PD‐like motor disorder in mice overexpressing mutant human α‐synuclein. Using hormonomics, we identified that stress stimulated corticosteroid release and promoted 15‐lipoxygenase‐1 (ALOX15)‐mediated phospholipid peroxidation. ALOX15 was upregulated by α‐synuclein overexpression and acted as a fundamental risk factor in the development of chronic stress‐induced parkinsonism and neurodegeneration. Further, we demonstrated the mechanism by which corticosteroids activated the PKC pathway and induced phosphatidylethanolamine‐binding protein‐1 (PEBP1) to form a complex with ALOX15, thereby facilitating ALOX15 to locate on the plasma membrane phospholipids. A natural product isolated from herbs, leonurine, was screened with activities of inhibiting the ALOX15/PEBP1 interaction and thereby attenuating membrane phospholipid peroxidation. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that stress increases the susceptibility of PD by driving membrane lipid peroxidation of dopaminergic neurons and suggest the ALOX15/PEBP1 complex as a potential intervention target.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is associated with enhanced sensitivity to cellular lipopolysaccharide challenge
Authors: Burnette Elizabeth M. , Grodin Erica N. , Olmstead Richard , Ray Lara A. , Irwin Michael R.
Published: August 2023

Background

Inflammation has been associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD). A novel method to characterize AUD‐related immune signaling involves probing Toll‐like receptor (TLR)‐4 stimulated monocyte production of intracellular cytokines (ICCs) via lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We evaluated relationships between AUD and ICC production at rest and after LPS stimulation.

Methods

We analyzed blood samples from 36 participants (AUD N = 14; Controls N = 22), collected across time, with ICC expression assessed at rest (i.e., unstimulated) and following stimulation with LPS (i.e., a total of 5 repeated unstimulated or stimulated measures/participant). Markers assessed included tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), TNF‐α and IL‐6 co‐expression, and interferon (IFN). For each marker, we constructed linear mixed models with AUD, LPS, and timepoint as fixed effects (BMI as covariate), allowing for random slope and intercept. AUD × LPS was included as an interaction.

Results

For TLR4‐stimulated monocyte production of TNF‐α, there were effects of AUD (p < 0.01), LPS (p < 0.001), and AUD × LPS interaction (p < 0.05), indicating that individuals with AUD showed greater unstimulated‐ and stimulated monocyte expression of TNF‐α. Similarly, for TLR4‐stimulated monocyte co‐expression of TNF‐α and IL‐6, there were effects of AUD (p < 0.01), LPS (p < 0.001), and AUD × LPS interaction (p < 0.05). No AUD or LPS effects were found for IL‐6. Timepoint effects were observed on IL‐6 and TNF‐α/IL‐6 co‐expression (p < 0.001). Finally, for IFN there were also effects of AUD (p < 0.05), LPS (p < 0.001), and AUD × LPS (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Individuals with AUD showed greater resting or unstimulated levels of intracellular monocyte expression of TNF‐α and IL‐6/TNF‐α co‐expression than controls. AUD was associated with increases in TLR4‐stimulated monocyte production of TNF‐α and co‐production of IL‐6 and TNF‐α. This is, to our knowledge, the first study to investigate relationships between AUD and monocyte production of proinflammatory cytokines, at rest and in response to TLR4 stimulation with LPS. The study extends previous findings on the roles of proinflammatory cytokines in AUD and serves as a critical proof of concept for the use of this method to probe neuroimmune mechanisms underlying AUD.
Plausibility, not science, has dominated public discussions of the COVID pandemic
Authors: Risch Harvey A.
Published: August 2023

COVID‐19 put to the test the understanding of the meaning of “science” by the medical profession, the media, and the public. Unfortunately, the vast majority of individuals were misled by those who spoke on behalf of science but who confused plausible stories with scientific explanation. Scientific understanding comes from theories, which generate hypotheses, which are, in turn, confirmed or disconfirmed by empirical evidence that is evaluated using statistical methods. In our daily lives, we may judge the validity of a hypothesis based on its plausibility, and for most trivial cases that is sufficient. But it is a mistake to imagine that science can proceed on that basis. Yet, scientists themselves are often confused about the foundations of the scientific method. “Evidence‐based medicine” is now being used to discredit all medical evidence other than randomized controlled trials (RCTs), the supposed “gold standard” of medical research. This insistence on a single method that is deemed “best practice” has the ironic effect of replacing science with plausibility in medicine. RCTs fail to live up to their vaunted status because of frequent insufficiencies in randomization related to confounding errors and their magnitudes. When randomized trials were compared with observational studies in a meta‐analysis of thousands of studies, the differences in conclusions were negligible. The entire framework of COVID‐19 policy has been based on plausible hypotheses, not backed by genuine scientific evidence. Critics are correct in claiming that COVID‐19 policies have been based on politics, not science.
Exploring rat corpus cavernosum alterations induced by finasteride treatment and withdrawal
Authors: Diviccaro Silvia , Herian Monika , Cioffi Lucia , Audano Matteo , Mitro Nico , Caruso Donatella , Giatti Silvia , Melcangi Roberto Cosimo
Published: August 2023

Despite its efficacy for treating androgenetic alopecia, finasteride, an inhibitor of 5α‐reductase (i.e., the enzyme converting testosterone, T, into dihydrotestosterone, DHT), is associated with several side effects including sexual dysfunction (e.g., erectile dysfunction). These side effects may persist after drug suspension, inducing the so‐called post‐finasteride syndrome (PFS). The effects of subchronic treatment with finasteride (i.e., 20 days) and its withdrawal (i.e., 1 month) in rat corpus cavernosum have been explored here. Data obtained show that the treatment was able to decrease the levels of the enzyme 5α‐reductase type II in the rat corpus cavernosum with increased T and decreased DHT levels. This local change in T metabolism was linked to mechanisms associated with erectile dysfunction. Indeed, by targeted metabolomics, we reported a decrease in the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity, measured by the citrulline/arginine ratio and confirmed by the decrease in NO2 levels, and a decrease in ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) activity, measured by citrulline/ornithine ratio. Interestingly, the T levels are negatively correlated with NOS activity, while those of DHT are positively correlated with OTC activity. Finasteride treatment also induced alterations in the levels of other molecules involved in the control of penile erection, such as norepinephrine and its metabolite, epinephrine. Indeed, plasma levels of norepinephrine and epinephrine were significantly increased and decreased, respectively, suggesting an impairment of these mediators. Interestingly, these modifications were restored by suspension of the drug. Altogether, the results reported here indicate that finasteride treatment, but not its withdrawal, affects T metabolism in the rat corpus cavernosum, and this alteration was linked to mechanisms associated with erectile dysfunction. Data here reported could also suggest that the PFS sexual side effects are more related to dysfunction in a sexual central control rather than peripheral compromised condition.
Web‐grading—a tool to test personal grading of renal and prostate cancer
Authors: Kristiansen Glen , Schmid Matthias , Egevad Lars , Samaratunga Hemamali , Varma Murali , Inam Kaan , Thiesen Hans‐Jürgen , Delahunt Brett , Dai Yulin
Published: August 2023

Only a few pathologists have the opportunity to verify their personal grading through objective assessment. This study introduces a web‐based grading platform to facilitate and validate the grading of renal cell carcinoma and prostate cancer. Two representative images of two clinically annotated cohorts of 100 cases each of prostate and renal cell carcinoma were used. Each participant was asked to grade a tumor series utilizing a three tiered grading system. Finally, a Kaplan–Meier curve was drawn, and the log‐rank test was used for statistical testing of the p‐value. The grading of 22 participants (68%) achieved prognostic significance. Further analysis highlighted that only two pathologists were able to reliably separate low‐ and high‐grade tumors from intermediate grades. The limitations of this study are the low number of participants in each of the cohorts and the potential selection bias of the tumor images. This web‐based grading portal facilitates the assessment of the validity of grading by individual pathologists. The observation that most participants can only successfully identify high‐ or low‐grade tumors but cannot discriminate between more subtle intermediate grades does indicate that there is a need for the development of more formal training programs for tumor grading.
Double filtration plasmapheresis combined with rituximab for donor‐specific antibody desensitization in haploidentical haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Liu Lizhen , Ji Xinyu , Zhu Panpan , Yang Luxin , Shi Jimin , Zhao Yanmin , Lai Xiaoyu , Yu Jian , Fu Huarui , Ye Yishan , Wu Yibo , Ying Jinping , Huang He , Luo Yi
Published: August 2023

Donor‐specific anti‐HLA antibodies (DSA) are a major cause of engraftment failure in patients receiving haploidentical haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (Haplo‐HSCT). Double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) avoids the unnecessary loss of plasma proteins and increases the efficiency of purification. To investigate the effectiveness of the desensitization protocol including DFPP and rituximab, we conducted a nested case–control study. Thirty‐three patients who had positive DSA were desensitized by the protocol and 99 patients with negative DSA were randomly matched as control. The median DSA mean fluorescence intensity values before and after DFPP treatment were 7505.88 ± 4424.38 versus 2013.29 ± 4067.22 (p < 0.001). All patients in DSA group achieved haematopoietic reconstitution and the median neutrophils and platelets engraftment times were 13 (10–21) and 13 (10–29) days respectively. Although the cumulative incidence of II–IV aGVHD (41.4% vs. 28.1%) and 3‐year moderate to severe cGVHD (16.8% vs. 7.2%) were higher in DSA cohort than in the control, no statistical significance was observed. The 3‐year non‐relapse mortality and the overall survival were 6.39% and 72.0%, respectively, in the DSA cohort, which were comparable to the negative control. In conclusion, DFPP and rituximab could be effectively used for desensitization and overcome the negative effects of DSA in Haplo‐HSCT.
Resveratrol alleviates amyloid β‐induced neuronal apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress by circ_0050263/miR‐361‐3p/PDE4A axis during Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Zhang Yanchun , Chen Deqiang , Tian Rui , Yan Xinyue , Zhou Yingwen
Published: August 2023

Resveratrol (Res) has been identified to reduce neurodegeneration. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are stable noncoding RNAs that are considered to be ideal biomarkers for molecular targeting treatment. Here, this study focused on investigating the function and relationship of circ_0050263 and Res in Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Human neuroblastoma cell line SK‐N‐SH was exposed to amyloid‐β (Aβ) to induce AD cell model in vitro. Cell viability, apoptosis, and inflammatory reaction were evaluated by CCK‐8 assay, flow cytometery, and ELISA analysis. The oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) were determined by detecting related markers. Levels of genes and proteins were detected by qRT‐PCR and Western blot. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay was adopted to verify the binding between miR‐361‐3p and circ_0050263 or PDE4A (Phosphodiesterase 4A). Subsequently, we found that Res treatment alleviated Aβ‐induced apoptosis, inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and ERS in SK‐N‐SH cells. Circ_0050263 is a stable circRNA, which was increased by Aβ, but decreased by Res in SK‐N‐SH cells. Circ_0050263 overexpression reversed Res‐induced neuroprotective effects. Mechanistically, circ_0050263 acted as a sponge for miR‐361‐3p, which targeted PDE4A. Circ_0050263 silencing abated Aβ‐induced neuronal injury, which were counteracted by following PDE4A overexpression. Moreover, PDE4A upregulation could attenuate Res‐mediated neuroprotective effects. In all, Res alleviated Aβ‐induced neuronal apoptosis, inflammation, oxidative stress, and ERS via circ_0050263/miR‐361‐3p/PDE4A axis, providing new insights for AD therapy.
Abnormal white matter structural network topological property in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Ai Haiming , Yang Chunlan , Lu Min , Ren Jiechuan , Li Zhimei , Zhang Yining
Published: August 2023

Background

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) studies have demonstrated white matter (WM) abnormalities in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). However, alterations in the topological properties of the WM structural network in patients with TLE remain unclear. Graph theoretical analysis provides a new perspective for evaluating the connectivity of WM structural networks.

Methods

DTI was used to map the structural networks of 18 patients with TLE (10 males and 8 females) and 29 (17 males and 12 females) age‐ and gender‐matched normal controls (NC). Graph theory was used to analyze the whole‐brain networks and their topological properties between the two groups. Finally, partial correlation analyses were performed on the weighted network properties and clinical characteristics, namely, duration of epilepsy, verbal intelligence quotient (IQ), and performance IQ.

Results

Patients with TLE exhibited reduced global efficiency and increased characteristic path length. A total of 31 regions with nodal efficiency alterations were detected in the fractional anisotropy_ weighted network of the patients. Communication hubs, such as the middle temporal gyrus, right inferior temporal gyrus, left calcarine, and right superior parietal gyrus, were also differently distributed in the patients compared with the NC. Several node regions showed close relationships with duration of epilepsy, verbal IQ, and performance IQ.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate the disruption of the WM structural network in TLE patients. This study may contribute to the further understanding of the pathological mechanism of TLE.
Investigation of the dyeability and various performance properties of fabrics produced from flax and hemp fibres and their blends with cotton in comparison with cotton
Authors: Atav Rıza , Dilden Durul Büşra , Keskin Seda , Ergünay Uğur
Published: August 2023

In this study, it is aimed to provide alternative fibres to cotton with enhanced comfort level, environmentally friendly and colour‐enriched in the cellulosic knitted fabric field. For this purpose, in addition to 100% cotton, 100% linen, 100% hemp yarns, knitted fabrics were produced from 70% cotton/30% linen and 70% cotton/30% hemp yarns. First of all, the properties of yarns such as tenacity, elongation at break, yarn unevenness, thin places, thick places and neps were examined comparatively. Then, pique fabrics were produced from these yarns and dyed with a reactive dye to a selected colour. Afterwards, physical (weight, wale/course density), mechanical (bursting strength, pilling, abrasion resistance) and comfort (air permeability and water vapour permeability) properties of all fabric samples, both in raw form and after dyeing and finishing processes, were compared. Furthermore, dyeing properties (colour, dye‐uptake, dyeing levelness, fastness) of fabric samples were also investigated. The dye uptake (%) values of the yarns decrease in the order of cotton > cotton/hemp > cotton/linen > hemp > linen. However, fastness values of dyed fabrics were nearly identical. Physical and mechanical properties of fabrics were very similar, while the air permeability of the fabrics decrease in the order of hemp > linen > cotton/hemp > cotton/linen > cotton. As a result of the study, it has been possible to produce knitted fabrics with superior performance characteristics (dyeability, comfort, etc.) from yarns produced via blending natural cellulosic fibres (flax and hemp) with certain proportions of cotton fibres, which contribute to sustainable production.
Esophageal rupture during endoscopic submucosal dissection closed using a novel suturing device
Authors: Kitagawa Daiki , Kanesaka Takashi , Ishihara Ryu
Published: August 2023

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Can we model autism using zebrafish?
Authors: Washbourne Philip
Published: August 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most common, heritable neuropsychiatric disorders in the world, affecting almost 1% of the population. The core symptoms used to diagnose ASD are decreased social interaction and increased repetitive behaviors. Despite the large number of affected individuals, the precise mechanisms that cause this disorder remain unclear. The identification of genes and environmental factors associated with ASD allows the study of the underlying mechanisms in animal models. Although ASD presents as a human disorder, based on recent advances in understanding their brain anatomy, physiology, behavior, and evolutionary conservation of neuronal cell types, I propose that zebrafish may provide novel insights into the etiology.
Efficacy and safety of the sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitor empagliflozin in elderly Japanese adults (≥65 years) with type 2 diabetes: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, 52‐week clinical trial (EMPA‐ELDERLY)
Authors: Yabe Daisuke , Shiki Kosuke , Homma Gosuke , Meinicke Thomas , Ogura Yuji , Seino Yutaka ,   EMPA‐ELDERLY Investigators
Published: August 2023

Aim

Use of sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) for glycaemic control is increasing in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) for their additional benefits on heart failure and chronic kidney disease. However, SGLT2is generally reduce body weight, which might promote sarcopenia in older individuals. We evaluated the effects of the SGLT2i empagliflozin on muscle mass and strength in addition to glucose control in elderly adults with T2D.

Materials and Methods

Individuals with T2D aged ≥65 years with body mass index ≥22 kg/m2 and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 7.0%‐10.0% were randomized 1:1 to once‐daily empagliflozin 10 mg or placebo for 52 weeks. The primary endpoint was change from baseline in HbA1c at week 52. Secondary endpoints included changes from baseline in muscle mass and strength.

Results

Of the 129 individuals randomized, 72.4% were men, mean age 74.1 years, body mass index 25.6 kg/m2 and HbA1c 7.6%. The placebo‐adjusted mean change from baseline in HbA1c at week 52 with empagliflozin was −0.57% [95% confidence interval (CI) −0.78, −0.36]. Change in body weight was −3.26 kg and −0.90 kg with empagliflozin and placebo, respectively (placebo‐adjusted difference: −2.37 kg; 95% CI −3.07, −1.68). Placebo‐adjusted change in muscle mass was −0.61 kg (95% CI −1.61, 0.39), fat mass −1.84 kg (95% CI −2.65, −1.04) and grip strength −0.3 kg (95% CI −1.1, 0.5).

Conclusions

Empagliflozin improved glucose control and reduced body weight without compromising muscle mass or strength in elderly adults with T2D in this trial.
Interventricular septal dissecting aneurysm resulting from congenital coronary fistula: A case report
Authors: Tekinhatun Muhammed , Cihan Fatih , Demir Muhammed
Published: August 2023

Dissected interventricular septal aneurysm is a rare complication that occurs in conditions such as acute myocardial infarction, sinus valsalva aneurysm, infective endocarditis, thoracic trauma, pericardiocentesis and balloon angioplasty. Only two cases of dissected interventricular septal aneurysm secondary to coronary fistula have been described in the literature. Here, we present a case of dissected interventricular septal aneurysm secondary to congenital coronary fistula.
Variable diet plasticity in Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis): Current versus seasonal food uptake
Authors: Vejříková Ivana , Vejřík Lukáš , Čech Martin , Blabolil Petr , Peterka Jiří
Published: August 2023

Diet plasticity is often studied in Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis), a species commonly described as having generalist populations composed of specialised individuals. Perch diet was examined using gut content analysis (GCA) and stable isotope analysis (SIA), and individual specialisation was calculated in two study lakes within 2 years. Mostly only one diet category was present in the perch stomach, with more variation in the diet in the Most lake compared to the Milada lake between 2013 and 2014. The calculated degree of individual specialisation indicated higher specialisation in the Most lake. Interestingly, despite the different or almost uniform diet composition between the years, the total niche width (based on SIA) of the population remained similar in both lakes. This suggests that the overall variation in the sources utilised by the entire population remained consistent between the years. GCA mostly indicated zooplankton as the prevailing food source, whereas SIA indicated significant utilisation of YOY fish earlier that year, an information that was completely missed by the GCA of fish caught in September. The differences between GCA and SIA results could be attributed to the different time intervals reflected by the methods, but possibly to the conversion of the diet into the body tissues that is reflected by SIA and may depend on the diet's nutritional values rather than the proportion of different prey consumed.
From a common empire to colonial rule: Commodity market disintegration in the Near East
Authors: Panza Laura
Published: August 2023

This paper investigates the impact of the disruption of the Ottoman Empire on the integration of regional and colonial commodity markets in the Near East. Exploiting a novel dataset on commodity prices in Syria, Egypt, Turkey, France, and the United Kingdom covering the 1787–1939 period, it assesses the extent of price dispersion across markets before and after the end of the Ottoman Empire and investigates the causes behind the change in market integration. The results indicate that, while regional markets disintegrated during 1923–39, reflecting the anti‐global environment of the interwar era, colonial market linkages strengthened. The empirical findings also highlight that border effects, rather the rise of protection per se, were the main drivers behind the increase of regional price dispersion.
Soil properties affect crop yield changes under conservation agriculture: A systematic analysis
Authors: Ren Xiaohua , Zou Wenjing , Jiao Juying , Stewart Ryan , Jian Jinshi
Published: August 2023

Conservation agriculture (CA) has the potential to sustain soil productivity and benefit agroecosystems, yet it is not fully understood how yield responses of different cropping systems are affected by inherent soil characteristics, for example, texture and dynamic soil properties, such as aggregation, nutrients and erosion. In this study, we conducted a systematic review to compare crop yield from cropland with conventional management versus different CA practices, specifically reduced‐ or no‐tillage, agroforestry, organic farming and cover crops. The data were first analysed for different climatic regions, soil textures and cash crop types. We then quantified how yield responses correlated with soil properties change under different CA practices. The results showed that CA practices were associated with an overall mean crop yield increase of 12%. This response was primarily driven by corn, which had a mean yield increase of almost 41% after CA implementation, whereas other cash crops did not have significant yield responses or showed slight decreases, as rotation with mixtures of multiple cash crops had a mean decrease of 6% when using CA. The increase in corn yield after CA may be related to the enhanced ability of that crop to absorb nutrient elements (e.g. nitrogen) and reduce nutrient leaching. Agroforestry increased crop yield by 66% and cover cropping increased yield by 11%, likely due to increases in soil water content and nutrient availability and decreases in erosion and surface runoff. However, other agricultural systems showed no significant increase after CA compared with conventional row cropping practices. Using CA practices had the greatest yield benefit in tropical climates and when farming in coarse‐textured soils. In addition, legumes and grass‐legume mixtures resulted in significant cash crop yield increases, possibly because legumes promoted the increase of soil nitrogen and depleted soil moisture less compared with other cover crops. The results provide new insight into how interactions between soil properties and CA practices affect crop yield and at the same time can help guide the development of practical, evidence‐based guidelines for using conservation practices to improve yield in corn and other cash crops.
Measurement Efficiency for Technology‐Enhanced and Multiple‐Choice Items in a K–12 Mathematics Accountability Assessment
Authors: Ersan Ozge , Berry Yufeng
Published: August 2023

The increasing use of computerization in the testing industry and the need for items potentially measuring higher‐order skills have led educational measurement communities to develop technology‐enhanced (TE) items and conduct validity studies on the use of TE items. Parallel to this goal, the purpose of this study was to collect validity evidence comparing item information functions, expected information values, and measurement efficiencies (item information per time unit) between multiple‐choice (MC) and technology‐enhanced (TE) items. The data came from K–12 mathematics large‐scale accountability assessments. The study results were mainly interpreted descriptively, and the presence of specific patterns between MC and TE items was examined across grades and depth of knowledge levels. Although many earlier researchers pointed out that TE items were not as efficient as MC items, the results from the study point to ways that TE items might provide more information and were more than or equally efficient as MC items overall.
Minimally invasive repair of congenital inguinal hernias in nine foals using an automated laparoscopic suturing device and barbed suture
Authors: Maurer Thimo , McEntee Tony M. , O'Brien Tom , Coleridge Matthew , Brünisholz Hervé P. , Petruccione Ilaria , Koch Christoph
Published: August 2023

Background

Laparoscopic herniorrhaphy using staples or smooth suture has been shown to be safe and effective for the surgical treatment of congenital inguinal hernia in colts and gives the possibility to spare the testicles. An automated laparoscopic suturing device combined with barbed suture reduces the technical challenges of laparoscopic suturing.

Objectives

The objective of the study was to describe the application of the Endo Stitch™ automated suturing device in combination with V‐Loc™ unidirectional barbed suture for laparoscopic herniorrhaphy in foals with congenital inguinal hernia, share experiences and provide long‐term follow‐up regarding the outcome.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Medical records of all foals that had laparoscopic herniorrhaphy using the Endo Stitch™ combined with V‐Loc™ unidirectional barbed suture at two equine referral hospitals between May 2015 and July 2022 were reviewed. Long‐term follow‐up was conducted by telephone interviews with the owners using a standardised questionnaire.

Results

Nine foals aged 0.5–13 weeks suffering from unilateral (seven cases) or bilateral (two cases) indirect inguinal hernia underwent unilateral (two cases) or bilateral (seven cases) laparoscopic herniorrhaphy using the described technique. In two animals, the testicles were spared, five animals were bilaterally castrated, and two were unilaterally castrated at the time of herniorrhaphy. No major intraoperative complications occurred. Postoperatively, foals were bright and alert and none of them had significant complications attributable to the surgery. Median long‐term follow‐up was 8 months. No re‐herniation was observed in any of the cases at any time postoperatively.

Main limitations

Retrospective study design and follow‐up period of less than 6 months in three cases.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic herniorrhaphy using the Endo Stitch™ laparoscopic suturing device and V‐Loc™ barbed suture is technically less demanding than previously described laparoscopic techniques and effective in preventing re‐herniation in foals suffering from congenital inguinal hernia. A fast and uncomplicated postoperative recovery can be expected.
Resting‐state fMRI reveals changes within the anxiety and social avoidance circuitry of the brain in mice with psoriasis‐like skin lesions
Authors: Chen Teng , Zhu Sheng‐Jie , Xu Shuai , Wang Yu‐Quan , Aji Abudula , Zhang Chen , Wang He , Li Fu‐Lun , Chu Yu‐Xia
Published: August 2023

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disease that often co‐occurs with psychological morbidities such as anxiety and depression, and psychosocial issues also lead psoriasis patients to avoid other people. However, the precise mechanism underlying the comorbidity of psoriasis and anxiety is unknown. Also, whether the social avoidance phenomenon seen in human patients also exists in psoriasis‐like animal models remains unknown. In the present study, anxiety‐like behaviours and social avoidance‐like behaviours were observed in an imiquimod‐induced psoriasis‐like C57‐BL6 mouse model along with typical psoriasis‐like dermatitis and itch‐like behaviours. The 11.7T resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging showed differences in brain regions between the model and control group, and voxel‐based morphometry showed that the grey matter volume changed in the basal forebrain region, anterior commissure intrabulbar and striatum in the psoriasis‐like mice. Seed‐based resting state functional connectivity analysis revealed connectivity changes in the amygdala, periaqueductal gray, raphe nuclei and lateral septum. We conclude that the imiquimod‐induced psoriasis‐like C57‐BL6 mouse model is well suited for mechanistic studies and for performing preclinical therapeutic trials for treating anxiety and pathological social avoidance in psoriasis patients.
DeepCens: A deep learning‐based system for real‐time image and video censorship
Authors: Yuksel Asim Sinan , Tan Fatma Gulsah
Published: August 2023

The popularity of social networks and video‐on‐demand platforms has increased the importance of image and video censorship. These platforms contain various content such as violence, explicit content, drug use and smoking that may be offensive or harmful to certain viewers. As a result, censorship is employed to filter or remove content that is unsuitable for particular audiences such as children and teenagers. However, policies for censoring harmful content in digital environments are either limited or nonexistent. This underscores the need for automated systems that can detect and censor harmful content in real time. To address these challenges, we developed the first of our knowledge systems using deep learning techniques to censor harmful content. We propose two novel, YOLO‐based real‐time censorship algorithms. Our approaches employ a pipeline‐based architecture that parallelizes the operations with subprocesses. In our experiments, the proposed algorithms performed faster and with higher accuracies compared to traditional approaches. Specifically, its content‐based accuracies were 98% for explicit content, 97% for alcohol, 98% for cigarettes and 97% for violence. Our research highlights the importance of developing effective and efficient solutions for censoring harmful content on digital media platforms. Our deep learning‐based system represents a promising approach to this challenge and has the potential to enhance user safety and protect vulnerable groups from harmful and offensive content. Future research will continue to refine and improve such systems to better address the evolving landscape of digital media and the challenges posed by harmful content.
Factors associated with household transmission of SARS‐CoV‐2 omicron variant to health care workers: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kagami Keisuke , Oyamada Reiko , Watanabe Tsubasa , Nakakubo Sho , Hayashi Takahiro , Iwasaki Sumio , Fukumoto Tatsuya , Usami Takayuki , Hayasaka Kasumi , Fujisawa Shinichi , Watanabe Chiaki , Nishida Mutsumi , Teshima Takanori , Niinuma Yusuke , Yokota Isao , Takekuma Yoh , Sugawara Mitsuru , Ishiguro Nobuhisa
Published: August 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for household transmission of the omicron variant of SARS‐CoV‐2.

Background

The household infection rate has been reported to be higher for the omicron variant than for non‐omicron variants of SARS‐CoV‐2. Determination of the risk factors for household transmission of the omicron variant is therefore important.

Design

A Retrospective Cohort Study was conducted.

Methods

When family members of health care workers (HCWs) were found to be infected with SARS‐CoV‐2, the HCWs had to receive two nucleic acid amplification tests for SARS‐CoV‐2: immediately after and 5 to 10 days after the onset of COVID‐19 in the family members. Risk factors of household transmission were analysed by comparing cases (HCWs infected with SARS‐CoV‐2) and controls (HCWs not infected with SARS‐CoV‐2) using multivariable analysis.

Results

Unvaccinated status (OR: 3.97), age of index cases (≤6 years) (OR: 1.94) and staying at home with index cases (OR: 10.18) were risk factors for household transmission.

Conclusion

If there is a strong desire to avoid household infection, family members infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 should live separately during the period of viral shedding.
Corrosion behavior and mechanism of ytterbium silicates environmental barrier coatings subjected to thermal cycling in water vapor
Authors: Zhong Xin , Liang Ruihui , Hong Du , Fan Dong , Wu Yiming , Wang Lujie , Li Qilian , Niu Yaran , Zheng Xuebin
Published: August 2023

Yb2SiO5 and Yb2Si2O7 have been considered to be promising environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) materials for silicon‐based ceramics. Besides the various requirements EBCs must satisfy, it must be resistant to severe corrosion by high‐temperature water vapor as well as CMAS. In this work, the Yb2SiO5, Yb2Si2O7 coatings and Yb2SiO5/Yb2Si2O7/Si, Yb2SiO5/Si EBCs were subjected to steam with alumina at 1400°C for 200 h. Results showed that Yb3Al5O12 reaction layer and Yb2SiO5 corrosion layer were formed on the Yb2SiO5 coating, while porous Yb2SiO5 corrosion layer with Yb3Al5O12 phase was formed on the Yb2Si2O7 coating. By designing Yb2Si2O7 as intermediate layer, the corrosion resistance of Yb2SiO5/Yb2Si2O7/Si EBCs was significantly improved. In addition to phase transition of β‐cristobalite to α‐phase, crystallization of amorphous SiO2 also caused volume change, inducing longitudinal cracks through the TGO layer, which may lead to the failure of EBCs.
Construct validity of the electronic Veterans Affairs Frailty Index against clinician frailty assessment
Authors: DuMontier Clark , Hennis Robert , Yilidirim Cenk , Seligman Benjamin J. , Fonseca Valencia Carolina , Lubinski Brooke L. , Sison Stephanie M. , Dharne Mayuri , Kim Dae Hyun , Schwartz Andrea Wershof , Driver Jane A. , Fillmore Nathanael R. , Orkaby Ariela R.
Published: August 2023

Background

Electronic frailty indices (eFIs) can expand measurement of frailty in research and practice and have demonstrated predictive validity in associations with clinical outcomes. However, their construct validity is less well studied. We aimed to assess the construct validity of the VA‐FI, an eFI developed for use in the U.S. Veterans Affairs Healthcare System.

Methods

Veterans who underwent comprehensive geriatric assessments between January 31, 2019 and June 6, 2022 at VA Boston and had sufficient data documented for a comprehensive geriatric assessment‐frailty index (CGA‐FI) were included. The VA‐FI, based on diagnostic and procedural codes, and the CGA‐FI, based on geriatrician‐measured deficits, were calculated for each patient. Geriatricians also assessed the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), functional status (ADLs and IADLs), and 4‐meter gait speed (4MGS).

Results

A total of 132 veterans were included, with median age 81.4 years (IQR 75.8–88.7). Across increasing levels of VA‐FI (<0.2; 0.2–0.4; >0.4), mean CGA‐FI increased (0.24; 0.30; 0.40). The VA‐FI was moderately correlated with the CGA‐FI (r 0.45, p < 0.001). Every 0.1‐unit increase in the VA‐FI was associated with an increase in the CGA‐FI (linear regression beta 0.05; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.03–0.06), higher CFS category (ordinal regression OR 1.69; 95% CI 1.24–2.30), higher odds of ADL dependency (logistic regression OR 1.59; 95% CI 1.20–2.11), IADL dependency (logistic regression OR 1.68; 95% CI 1.23–2.30), and a decrease in 4MGS (linear regression beta −0.07, 95% CI −0.12 to −0.02). All models were adjusted for age and race, and associations held after further adjustment for the Charlson Comorbidity Index.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate the construct validity of the VA‐FI through its associations with clinical measures of frailty, including summary frailty measures, functional status, and objective physical performance. Our findings complement others' in showing that eFIs can capture functional and mobility domains of frailty beyond just comorbidity and may be useful to measure frailty among populations and individuals.
Reply to: Associations of use of smartphone and internet technologies with loneliness
Authors: Umoh Mfon , Cudjoe Thomas K. M.
Published: August 2023

This letter comments on the letter by Knuutila et al.
Do insurers use internal capital markets to manage regulatory scrutiny risk?
Authors: Fier Stephen G. , Liebenberg Andre P.
Published: August 2023

Empirical evidence suggests that insurance groups allocate capital to members with better performance or growth prospects and use internal capital markets (ICMs) to protect the franchise value of less capitalized members. We propose and test an additional motivation for the use of ICMs—to manage regulatory scrutiny risk. We show that almost 50% of insurers at risk of facing additional regulatory scrutiny due to failing four Insurance Regulatory Information System (IRIS) ratios received sufficient internal capital to avoid enhanced regulation. Moreover, the likelihood and extent of internal capital allocation are related to regulatory scrutiny risk and the amount of capital allocated is typically just enough to avoid regulatory scrutiny. Time series evidence indicates that groups manage regulatory scrutiny risk by allocating capital toward affiliates when their pre‐capital contribution IRIS ratio failures exceed three, and away from affiliates when they are no longer at risk of additional regulatory scrutiny.
Optimal taxation for democracies with less than perfect voters: A public choice perspective
Authors: Congleton Roger D.
Published: August 2023

This paper analyzes optimal tax policy from the perspective of voters who want public policies to systematically advance their interests. Self‐acknowledged ignorance implies that voters have a practical interest in transparent and stable tax systems that allow personal tax burdens to be calculated accurately and easily. Such properties reduce voter mistakes. However, a voter's normative interests may conflict with these practical interests, because ideas about a good life or good society often support tax system complexity. Tradeoffs between these two aims of democratic tax systems imply that the optimal tax system for a democracy neither minimizes voter errors nor maximizes a social welfare function.
Divergent pathways of liver fat accumulation, oxidation, and secretion in lipodystrophy versus obesity‐associated NAFLD
Authors: Klein Rachael J. , Viana Rodriguez Gracia M. , Rotman Yaron , Brown Rebecca J.
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims

Fatty liver is common in obesity as well as in partial lipodystrophy (PL) syndromes, characterized by deficient adipose tissue. Insulin resistance is key to fatty liver pathogenesis in both entities. We aimed to compare the contributions of insulin resistance and adipose tissue to hepatic steatosis in PL and non‐syndromic, obesity‐associated non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NS‐NAFLD).

Methods

In a cross‐sectional comparison of people with NS‐NAFLD (N = 73) and PL (N = 27), liver fat was measured by FibroScan® controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) and insulin resistance by HOMA‐IR, Adipo‐IR, and NMR‐based LP‐IR.

Results

Insulin resistance was greater in PL versus NS‐NAFLD by HOMA‐IR (p = 0.005), Adipo‐IR (p = 0.01) and LP‐IR (p = 0.05) while liver fat was comparable (304 vs. 324 dB/m, p = 0.12). Liver fat correlated with HOMA‐IR in both groups, but CAP values were lower by 32 dB/m in PL compared with NS‐NAFLD for any given HOMA‐IR. In contrast, Adipo‐IR and LP‐IR correlated with CAP only in the NS‐NAFLD group, suggesting different pathways for fat accumulation. Plasma free fatty acids, reflecting substrate input from the adipose tissue, were comparable between groups. However, the levels of β‐hydroxybutyrate, a marker of β‐oxidation, and large triglyceride‐rich lipoprotein particles, a marker of VLDL secretion, were both higher in PL (p < 0.001 for both).

Conclusion

Liver fat content was comparable in subjects with PL‐associated NAFLD and NS‐NAFLD, despite worse insulin resistance in partial lipodystrophy. Our data demonstrate higher triglyceride oxidation and export in PL, suggesting a compensatory shift of fat from liver storage into the circulation that does not occur in NS‐NAFLD.