bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Features and Initial Management Outcomes of Uveal Melanomas in a Single Tertiary Center in Egypt
Authors: Swaify Islam Y. , Hamza Hany , Khattab Ayman M. , El-Agha Mohamed-Sameh H. , El-Helw Mostafa A. , Macky Tamer A. , Hassanein Dina H. , Salah Shaymaa H. , Noureldine Alia M. , Fayed Alaa E. , Meqdad Yasmine , Al-Etr Salma F. , El Qadi Layla , Abdullatif Abdussalam M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction: We aimed to report the demographic data, clinical features, and management outcomes of patients with uveal melanoma (UM) in a single tertiary center in Egypt. Methods: This is a single-center retrospective case series. Patients with UM who were managed at Cairo University Ocular Oncology Service between January 2019 and December 2023 were included. Records were analyzed for patients’ demographics, clinical features and different management options. Outcomes included changes in best corrected visual acuity and tumor dimensions (thickness and largest base diameter), perioperative complications, globe salvage, and recurrence rates. Results: A total of 93 eyes of 93 patients with UM were treated in our service over a period of 5 years. The mean age of patients was 52.18 ± 13.30 years, and 91.4% of tumors were choroidal or ciliochoroidal. 52 eyes (55.91%) were managed with ruthenium-106 episcleral brachytherapy, of which two eyes required additional brachytherapy, 8 eyes ended with secondary enucleation, and the globe was salvaged in 84.62% of eyes. 8 eyes (8.60%) were managed by gamma knife radiosurgery with or without endoresection. One eye with an iridociliary tumor was managed with partial lamellar sclerouvectomy, and the remaining 32 eyes (34.41%) were primarily enucleated. Conclusion: Timely referral channels and accurate assessment of cases with UM are invaluable for achievement of higher success rates in tumor regression, as well as globe and/or vision salvage in eyes managed with brachytherapy. Patients with more advanced tumors should be counseled on the importance of more invasive options such as enucleation in achieving lower metastasis and mortality rates.
Patient and Caregiver Perspectives on Gender Disparity in Chronic Kidney Disease: Questionnaire Survey, Based on an Interview Study
Authors: Vanek Lenka , Gülmez Dilara , Kurnikowski Amelie , Krenn Simon , Mussnig Sebastian , Lewandowski Michał , Gauckler Philipp , Pirklbauer Markus , Horn Sabine , Brunner Maria , Zitt Emanuel , Kirsch Bernhard , Windpessl Martin , Eller Kathrin , Odler Balasz , Aringer Ida , Wiesholzer Martin , Stamm Tanja , Jauré Allison , Hecking Manfred
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in stages 3–5 without albuminuria occurs more often in women than in men; however, most patients initiating and receiving kidney replacement therapy are men. Sex-determined biological factors and gender-related aspects both likely account for this discrepancy. Patient opinions on gender-related discrepancies in kidney care have not been investigated. Methods: Building upon the findings of semi-structured interviews previously conducted with CKD patients and their caregivers, two questionnaires were developed to investigate patient behavior and opinions relating to gender and CKD. These questionnaires containing 39 items were distributed to eight outpatient clinics in Austria. Responses were descriptively analyzed and compared between genders, as well as between age-groups and CKD stages. Results: Questionnaires from 783 patients and 98 caregivers were included in the analysis and covered health awareness and self-management of disease, the impact of gender roles and gender equality, and patient autonomy and trust in the health-care system. A total of 56.1% of men patients and 63.1% of women patients found that women were better at looking after their health compared to men (41.1%/34.3% no difference, 2.8%/2.6% men better). A total of 95.4% of men patients, 95.0% of women patients, 100% of men caregivers, and 95.5% of women caregivers stated that all patients with kidney disease were treated completely equally, irrespective of gender. Conclusion: Neither the patients nor the caregivers stated gender-determined treatment decisions in CKD care. Both men and women however agreed that women are better at maintaining their own health and excel in disease self-management.
KRT18 as a Novel Biomarker of Urothelial Papilloma while Evaluating Low-Grade Papillary Urothelial Neoplasms: Bi-Center Analysis
Authors: Jung Minsun , Kim Bohyun , Lee Jae Seok , Kim Jun Yong , Han Dohyun , Kim Kwangsoo , Yang Sunah , Kim Eun Na , Kim Hyeyooon , Nikas Ilias P. , Yang Sohyeon , Moon Kyung Chul , Lee Hyebin , Ryu Han Suk
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Although urothelial papilloma (UP) is an indolent papillary neoplasm that can mimic the morphology of low-grade papillary urothelial carcinoma (PUC), there is no immunomarker to differentiate reliably these two entities. In addition, the molecular characteristics of UP are not fully understood. Methods: We conducted an in-depth proteomic analysis of papillary urothelial lesions (n = 31), including UP and PUC along with normal urothelium. Protein markers distinguishing UP and PUC were selected with machine learning analysis, followed by internal and external validation using immunohistochemistry. Results: In the proteomic analysis, UP and PUC showed overlapping proteomic profiles. We identified EHD4 and KRT18 as candidate diagnostic biomarkers of UP. Through immunohistochemical validation in two independent cohorts (n = 120), KRT18 was suggested as a novel UP diagnostic marker, able to differentiate UP from low-grade PUC. We also found that 3.5% of patients with UP developed urothelial carcinoma in subsequent resections, supporting the malignant potential of UP. KRT18 downregulation was significantly associated with UPs subsequently progressing to urothelial carcinoma, following their initial diagnosis. Conclusion: This is the first study that successfully revealed UPs comprehensive proteomic landscape, while it also identified KRT18 as a potential diagnostic biomarker of UP.
Deciphering Breast Origin in Malignant Effusions: The Diagnostic Utility of an MGP, GATA-3, and TRPS-1 Immunocytochemical Panel
Authors: Yang So Hyeon , Lee Jae Seok , Koh Ji Won , Nikas Ilias P. , Kim Eun Na , Lee Hyebin , Ryu Han Suk
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Defining the origin of metastatic cancer is crucial for establishing an optimal treatment strategy, especially when obtaining sufficient tissue from secondary malignancies is limited. While cytological examination is often used in this diagnostic setting, morphologic analysis alone often fails to differentiate metastases derived from the breast from other primaries. The hormone receptor, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2, gross cystic disease fluid protein 15, and mammaglobin immunohistochemistry are often used to diagnose metastatic breast cancer. However, their effectiveness decreases in estrogen receptor (ER)-negative breast cancers, including the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) subtype. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of GATA-binding protein 3 (GATA-3), trichorhinophalangeal syndrome type 1 (TRPS-1), and Matrix Gla Protein (MGP) immunochemistry across 140 effusion cytology specimens with metastatic adenocarcinoma derived from various primaries, including the breast, colon, pancreaticobiliary, lung, tubo-ovarian, and stomach. Results: The expression rates of these immunomarkers were significantly higher in metastatic cancers originating from the breast than other primaries. In TNBC, TRPS-1 (80.00%) and MGP (65.00%) exhibited higher positivity rates compared to GATA-3 (40.00%). Additionally, our data suggest that an immunohistochemical panel comprising MGP, GATA-3, and TRPS-1 significantly enhances the detection of metastatic breast cancer in effusion cytology specimens, including TNBC in particular. When considering dual-marker positivity, the diagnostic accuracy was found to be 89.29% across all breast cancer subtypes and 92.93% for TNBC. Conclusions: MGP appears to be a robust marker for identifying metastatic breast cancer in malignant effusions, especially TNBC. MGP notably enhances diagnostic accuracy when incorporated together with GATA-3 and TRPS-1 in an immunohistochemical panel.
Impact of an Exercise-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation Program on Cardiopulmonary Test Parameters
Authors: Duarte Fabiana , Ricardo Inês , Faria Clarissa , Alves da Silva Pedro , Cunha Nelson , Miguel Sandra , Pinto Rita , Pinto Fausto , Abreu Ana
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation programs (CRPs) represent a multidisciplinary therapeutic approach tailored to improve cardiorespiratory fitness and overall health-related quality of life, while reducing cardiovascular hospitalizations and mortality. Our aim was to determine changes in exercise capacity and cardiac events according to the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) following a CRP. Methods: This single-center cohort study included 131 patients who completed a center-based CRP from 2015 to 2022. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), transthoracic echocardiography, and laboratory analysis were performed before and after program completion. Results: Of 232 enrolled patients, 131 were included in our cohort analysis, with 36.6% having a reduced LVEF. These patients exhibited higher rates of atrial fibrillation (p = 0.019) and NT-proBNP values (p < 0.001). Patients with reduced LVEF had lower peak VO2 (pVO2) (p = 0.046), percentage of predicted oxygen consumption (ppVO2) (p < 0.001), and VO2 at anaerobic threshold (p = 0.015) during baseline CPET. Completion of the CRP led to comparable improvements in exercise performance between groups, assessed through Δ pVO2 (p = 0.990), Δ ppVO2 (p = 0.610), and Δ VE/VCO2 slope (p = 0.200). In the study population, male gender and hypertension independently predicted variation in VE/VCO2 slope (p = 0.017) and oxygen uptake efficiency slope (p = 0.048), respectively, post-CRP. During follow-up, 9.2% of all patients had hospital admissions for cardiac events, and 3.8% died, with no significant differences between groups. Conclusion: Patients with reduced LVEF admitted to our CRP showed lower functional status based on specific CPET parameters. After CRP, both reduced and preserved LVEF groups experienced similar functional improvements. Therefore, strategies to increase participation of patients with reduced LVEF in such programs are warranted.
Palácio do Congresso Nacional – valor cultural de alterações em edifícios modernos
Authors: Carvalho Juliano Loureiro de
Published: August 2024

Setting itself apart from contemporary views on material culture conservation, the international debate on the preservation of modern architecture maintained, in the 1990s and 2000s, that such an architecture should be primarily conserved as a means of upholding the ideals of the Modern Movement. This perspective defined itself as a preservation of the authenticity of concepts. The 2000s gave rise to an alternative approach that moves toward cultural heritage tenets and deems matter and history as heritage attributes potentially as relevant as the authors’ ideas. This study contributes to the growing acceptance of this alternative approach, challenging the perception of modern buildings as pure ideas or unchanging images. It does so by exploring the cultural value resulting from intentional changes accumulated over time on the main building of the National Congress in Brasília, Brazil (designed by Oscar Niemeyer, 1957-1960). It used bibliographic and extensive documentary research as a basis for redrawing 100 renovation woks that have been carried out on the building. The analysis of the material shows diverse intentions, strategies, and outcomes from interventions from 1960 to 2020. This study sought to associate them with their authorship, institutional contexts, and different moments in the history of the building. The most significant alterations indicate that deviations from original intention and form in modern buildings fail to always configure distortions to be corrected. They can give rise to new images that replace established ones, updating collective imagery and bearing relevant cultural value. Addition acts can also offer a mode of intervention that enriches those buildings.
Cerebrovascular Events in Patients Undergoing Transfemoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: A Pooled Patient‐Level Study
Authors: van Nieuwkerk Astrid C. , Aarts Hugo M. , Hemelrijk Kimberley I. , Urbano Carrillo Cristobal , Tchétché Didier , de Brito Fabio S. , Barbanti Marco , Kornowski Ran , Latib Azeem , D'Onofrio Augusto , Ribichini Flavio , García‐Blas Sergio , Dumonteil Nicolas , Abizaid Alexandre , Sartori Samantha , D'Errigo Paola , Tarantini Giuseppe , Lunardi Mattia , Orvin Katia , Pagnesi Matteo , Navarro Felipe , Dangas George , Mehran Roxana , Delewi Ronak
Published: August 2024

Background

Cerebrovascular events remain one of the most devastating complications of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Data from real‐world contemporary cohorts on longitudinal trends and outcomes remain limited. The aim of this study was to assess incidence, temporal trends, predictors, and outcomes of cerebrovascular events following transfemoral TAVI.

Methods and Results

The CENTER2 (Cerebrovascular Events in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation With Balloon‐Expandable Valves Versus Self‐Expandable Valves 2) study includes patients undergoing TAVI between 2007 and 2022. The database contains pooled patient‐level data from 10 clinical studies. A total of 24 305 patients underwent transfemoral TAVI (mean age 81.5±6.7 years, 56% women, median Society of Thoracic Surgeon Predicted Risk of Mortality 4.9% [3.1%–8.5%]). Of these patients, 2.2% (n=534) experienced stroke in the first 30 days after TAVI, and 40 (0.4%) had a transient ischemic attack. Stroke rates remained stable during the treatment period (2007–2010: 2.1%, 2011–2014: 2.5%, 2015–2018: 2.1%, 2019–2022: 2.1%;
P
trend
=0.28). Moreover, 30‐day cerebrovascular event rates were similar across Society of Thoracic Surgeon Predicted Risk of Mortality risk categories: 2.1% in low‐risk, 2.6% in intermediate‐risk, and 2.5% in high‐risk patients (
P
=0.21). Mortality was higher in patients with 30‐day stroke than without at 30 days (20.3% versus 4.7%; odds ratio, 5.1 [95% CI, 4.1–6.5];
P
<0.001) and at 1 year (44.1% versus 15.0%; hazard ratio, 3.5 [95% CI, 3.0–4.2];
P
<0.001). One‐year mortality rates for stroke did not decline over time (2007–2010: 46.9%, 2011–2014: 46.0%, 2015–2018: 43.0%, 2019–2022: 39.1%;
P
trend
=0.32). At 1 year, 7.0% of patients undergoing TAVI had a stroke.

Conclusions

In 24 305 patients who underwent transfemoral TAVI, 30‐day cerebrovascular event incidence remained ≈ 2.2% between 2007 and 2022. Thirty‐day stroke rates were similar throughout Society of Thoracic Surgeon Predicted Risk of Mortality risk categories. Mortality rates after stroke remain high.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03588247.
Percentage Predicted Peak Oxygen Consumption in People With Fontan Circulation: A Rapid Systematic Scoping Review and Validation Study
Authors: Wadey Curtis A. , Tomlinson Owen W. , Barker Alan R. , Stuart A. Graham , Tran Derek L. , Laohachai Karina , Ayer Julian , Weintraub Robert G. , Cordina Rachael , Williams Craig A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Peak oxygen consumption (peak

V
̇

O
2

$$ \dot{\mathrm{V}}{\mathrm{O}}_2 $$

) is routinely measured in people who have congenital heart disease and is reported as a percentage of predicted value, based upon age‐ and sex‐matched normative reference values (NRVs). This study aimed to identify which NRVs are being used, assess whether NRVs are being applied appropriately, and evaluate if recommended NRVs are valid when applied to people with congenital heart disease.

Methods and Results

A systematic scoping review identified studies that reported peak

V
̇

O
2

$$ \dot{\mathrm{V}}{\mathrm{O}}_2 $$

percentage of predicted value in people with congenital heart disease. A modified risk of bias tool evaluated the included studies. Forty‐five studies reported peak

V
̇

O
2

$$ \dot{\mathrm{V}}{\mathrm{O}}_2 $$

percentage of predicted value, and only 21 (47%) studies described or provided a reference on how their percentage of predicted value was calculated. The most cited NRVs were from Wasserman (n=12) and Cooper and Weiler‐Ravell (n=7). Risk of bias analysis judged 63% of studies as having some concerns. The NRVs recommended by the American Heart Association were applied to participants with a Fontan circulation (n=70; aged 26.5±6.4 years; 59% women) to examine validity. Predicted peak

V
̇

O
2

$$ \dot{\mathrm{V}}{\mathrm{O}}_2 $$

values from the Wasserman NRV was not significantly associated to measured peak

V
̇

O
2

$$ \dot{\mathrm{V}}{\mathrm{O}}_2 $$

values (men: b=0.31,
R
2
≤0.01; women: b=0.07,
R
2
=0.02).

Conclusions

Numerous NRVs have been applied to individuals with congenital heart disease and are often poorly reported and inappropriately matched to participants. The Wasserman NRV was the most cited but showed poor validity when applied to a Fontan cohort.
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Left Atrial Strain in the Prediction of Death, Ischemic Stroke, and Heart Failure
Authors: Krittayaphong Rungroj , Jirataiporn Kanchalaporn , Yindeengam Ahthit , Songsangjinda Thammarak
Published: August 2024

Background

To determine the prognostic value of left atrial strain (LAS) using cardiac magnetic resonance for predicting death, heart failure, and ischemic stroke in patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease with preserved left ventricular systolic function and no prior history of ischemic stroke, heart failure, or atrial fibrillation.

Methods and Results

This retrospective cohort analysis included patients referred for stress cardiac magnetic resonance or myocardial viability studies between September 2017 and December 2019. Patients with impaired left ventricular systolic function (<50%) or a history of atrial fibrillation, stroke, or heart failure were excluded. A multivariable Cox model assessed the prognostic value of LAS, with the primary outcomes being the composite outcomes of all‐cause death, ischemic stroke, and heart failure. A total of 2030 participants were included in the study. The average LAS was 24.1±8.5%; 928 had LAS <23%, and 1102 had LAS ≥23%. The mean follow‐up duration was 39.9±13.6 months. There were 49 deaths (2.4%), 32 ischemic strokes (1.6%), and 34 heart failure events (1.7%). Patients with LAS <23% were at greater risk for composite outcome, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 2.31 (95% CI, 1.50–3.55).

Conclusions

LAS by cardiac magnetic resonance has an independent and incremental prognostic value for death, ischemic stroke, and heart failure in patients with preserved left ventricular systolic function. This prognostic value is observed after adjusting for clinical and cardiac magnetic resonance parameters, including left ventricular systolic function, late gadolinium enhancement, and left atrial volume index.
Association Between the Timing of Atrial Fibrillation Detection and Functional Outcome Following Mechanical Thrombectomy
Authors: Ryu Jae‐Chan , Lee Sang‐Hun , Jung Jin‐Man , Kwon Boseong , Song Yunsun , Lee Deok H. , Koo Sujin , Chang Jun Y. , Kang Dong‐Wha , Kwon Sun U. , Kim Jong S. , Kim Bum J.
Published: August 2024

Background

Atrial fibrillation detected after stroke (AFDAS) refers to the identification of newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation (AF) following an ischemic stroke in patients without known AF (KAF). The objective of this study was to compare the functional outcomes of patients diagnosed with AFDAS and those with KAF who underwent mechanical thrombectomy.

Methods and Results

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent mechanical thrombectomy and with either new AF diagnosed during hospitalization or KAF. We compared the baseline characteristics, clinical, and procedure‐related variables between those with AFDAS and KAF. The primary outcome was the achievement of functional independence, defined as a modified Rankin Scale score of 0 to 2, at 3 months after stroke. Of the 252 patients, 101 (40.1%) were classified into the AFDAS group. The KAF group exhibited a higher rate of stroke history compared with the AFDAS group (32.5% versus 13.9%;
P
=0.001). Tandem occlusion was more common in the KAF group (13.2% versus 5.9%), while M2 occlusion was more common in the AFDAS group (11.3% versus 20.8%). The proportion of patients who achieved functional independence was higher in the AFDAS group (37.7% versus 52.5%;
P
=0.029). Multivariable analysis showed that AFDAS was associated with a favorable functional outcome (odds ratio, 2.67 [95% CI, 1.39–5.14];
P
=0.003).

Conclusions

AFDAS demonstrated a positive association with functional independence in patients with stroke who underwent mechanical thrombectomy and were finally diagnosed to have AF during hospitalization. The observed disparities in occlusion site, intractable thrombus, and history of previous stroke may have contributed to these findings.
Acute Myocardial Injury in Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Secondary Observational Analysis of the FAST Trial
Authors: Rosso Michela , Stengl Helena , Scheitz Jan F. , Lewey Jennifer , Mayer Stephan A. , Yaghi Shadi , Kasner Scott E , Witsch Jens
Published: August 2024

Background

Acute myocardial injury is associated with poor outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke, but its prognostic significance in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage remains unclear. We investigated whether acute myocardial injury and the direction of the cardiac troponin I (cTnI) change (rising versus falling) affect post‐intracerebral hemorrhage outcomes.

Methods and Results

We re‐analyzed the FAST (Factor‐Seven‐for‐Acute‐Hemorrhagic‐Stroke) trial. Acute myocardial injury was defined as at least 1 cTnI value above the upper reference limit with a rise/fall of >20%. Logistic regression tested for associations (1) between acute myocardial injury (presence versus absence) and poor outcome (modified Rankin Scale 4–6) and mortality at 15 and 90 days; (2) among 3 groups (rising versus falling versus no acute myocardial injury) and outcomes. Among the 841 FAST participants, 785 patients were included. Acute myocardial injury was detected in 29% (n=227); 170 had rising cTnI. At 15 and 90 days, respectively, those with acute myocardial injury had higher odds of poor outcome (adjusted odds ratio) ([aOR] 2.3 [95% CI, 1.3–3.9]); and adjusted odds ratio 2.5 [95% CI, 1.6–3.9];, and higher odds of mortality (adjusted odds ratio 2.4 [95% CI, 1.4–4.3]; and adjusted odds ratio 2.2 [CI, 1.3–3.6]) than patients without. There was no interaction between FAST group assignment and myocardial injury, and associations between myocardial injury and outcomes were consistent across group assignments. Rising cTnI was associated with the highest risk of poor outcomes and mortality.

Conclusions

In this secondary analysis of the FAST trial, acute myocardial injury was common and associated with poor outcomes. The direction of the cTnI change might provide additional risk stratification after intracerebral hemorrhage.
Low Ventricular Stiffness Is Associated With Suboptimal Outcomes in Patients With a Single Right Ventricle After the Fontan Operation: A Novel Phenotype
Authors: Chowdhury Shahryar M. , Atz Andrew M. , Graham Eric M. , Bandisode Varsha M. , Rhodes John F. , Nutting Arni C. , Taylor Carolyn , Savage Andrew , Hassid Marc , Kavarana Minoo , Menick Donald
Published: August 2024

Background

Despite a rigorous screening process, including cardiac catheterization, a subset of patients with a single right ventricle (SRV) demonstrates suboptimal short‐term outcomes after the Fontan operation. The goal of this study was to perform a comprehensive assessment of diastolic function in pre‐Fontan patients with an SRV using invasive reference‐standard measures and determine their associations with post‐Fontan outcomes.

Methods and Results

Children aged 2 to 6 years with SRV physiology undergoing pre‐Fontan heart catheterization were recruited prospectively. Patients were divided into those who had an optimal or suboptimal outcome. A suboptimal outcome was defined as length of stay ≥14 days or heart transplant/cardiac death in first year after Fontan. Patients underwent pressure–volume loop analysis using reference‐standard methods. The measure of ventricular stiffness, β, was obtained via preload reduction. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging for extracellular volume and serum draws for matrix metalloproteinase activity were performed. Of 19 patients with an SRV, 9 (47%) had a suboptimal outcome. Mean age was 4.2±0.7 years. Patients with suboptimal outcomes had lower ventricular stiffness (0.021 [0.009–0.049] versus 0.090 [0.031–0.118] mL
−1
;
P
=0.02), lower extracellular volume (25% [28%–32%] versus 31% [28%–33%];
P
=0.02), and lower matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (90 [79–104] versus 108 [79–128] ng/mL;
P
=0.01) compared with patients with optimal outcomes. The only invasive measure that had an association with suboptimal outcome was β (
P
=0.038).

Conclusions

Patients with an SRV with suboptimal outcome after the Fontan operation had lower ventricular stiffness and evidence of maladaptive extracellular matrix metabolism compared with patients with optimal outcome. This appears to be a novel phenotype that may have important clinical implications and requires further study.
First report of Trypoxylon clavicerum (Crabronidae: Hymenoptera) from the Indian subcontinent: its nesting behaviour and prey preference
Authors: Udayakumar Amala , Shamappa Venu Hunasikote , Kandan A. , Sampathkumar M. , Arvind M. , Shivalingaswamy T.M.
Published: August 2024

A study was conducted to document the nesting behaviour and prey composition of a crabronid wasp, Trypoxylon sp. The wasp was molecularly characterised as T. clavicerum (NCBI Accession No. OQ913679.1). Nest acceptance rate was significantly higher in the reeds of Ipomea carnea (79.20%) and bamboo (84.80%). The mean number of brood cells (4.40 ± 0.89 cells/nest) and vestibular cells (1.06 cells/nest) built by the wasp was significantly higher in the reeds of I. carnea. Brood parasitisation by the nest parasite Amobia sp. was significantly higher in nests built by the wasp in paper straws (58.57%) compared to the nests built in the reeds of bamboo (23.33%). The mean durations of the egg, larval and pupal stages of T. clavicerum were 2.60 ± 0.55, 6.01 ± 0.71 and 4.80 ± 0.84 days. The number of nests recovered was observed to be the highest during the months of August (3.66 ± 1.53 nests), September (5.00 ± 4.36 nests), October (8.67 ± 2.89 nests) and November (6.00 ± 2.10 nests). The major species of spider from the occupied nests belonged to two families, viz. Salticidae (81%) and Oxyopidae (19%). During the nesting period the adult wasp provisioned a greater number of spiderlings (3.25 to 3.60 spiderlings/cell) than adult spiders (1.20 to 1.60 adult spiders/cell) to her brood. The time taken to complete a single nest provisioned with adult spiders and spiderlings (13.20 ± 6.83 hr/single nest) was significantly less than for the nests provisioned with adult spiders (46.80 ± 14.80 hr/single nest) only. This study is the first ever report of nesting behaviour and prey composition of the spider-hunting wasp T. clavicerum from India.
Biology and morphometrics of cassava mealybug, Phenacoccus manihoti Matile-Ferrero, 1977 (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae)
Authors: Murthy Jasti Sri Vishnu , Chellappan Mani , M.T. Ranjith , Revi Smitha , E.R. Harish , A.G. Kiran
Published: August 2024

Biology and morphometry studies of the cassava mealybug, Phenacoccus manihoti Matile-Ferrero (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), on cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) were carried out on the M4 variety. P. manihoti damages cassava through direct feeding on sap and the injection of toxic saliva. Additionally, it concomitantly promotes sooty mold growth and development. Establishing a comprehensive insect management strategy requires a fundamental understanding of the biology of pest species. In this experiment, cassava cuttings were planted in polybags within a polyhouse. After reaching the eight- to ten-leaf stage, the plants were inoculated with 20 eggs each and observed daily until they completed their life cycle. This observation process was carried out on 80 individual insects, each representing a replicate. The mean egg duration was 6.8 days, the durations of the first, second, and third nymphal instars were 6.4, 4.6, and 5.3 days, respectively, and the duration of the adult stage was 20.9 days. Similarly, the mean duration of pre-oviposition was 5.7 days, the duration of the oviposition period was 11.3 days, and the duration of post-oviposition was 3.8 days. Overall, on average, the life cycle took 44.2 days, and a single female could lay 259 eggs. The net reproductive rate () was 226.78 ♀/♀, the mean generation time (T) was 33.07 days, the intrinsic (rm) and finite (λ) rates of increase were 0.164 and 1.178 ♀/♀/day, respectively, and the doubling time was 4.22 days. A nonsignificant variation was observed in the morphometrics (length and width) within the same instar stages of P. manihoti. This information is essential for gaining insights into population dynamics and formulating efficient management approaches for P. manihoti under investigation.
Parasitoids of the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) – a minor problem or the tip of the iceberg?
Authors: Rojo S.
Published: August 2024

An overview of parasitoid species found on the black soldier fly is presented. The future significance of these natural enemies remains uncertain. However, a thorough assessment of their impact on black soldier fly farms worldwide is essential. The initial step involves the taxonomic identification and study of the life cycles of the species involved.
An annotated checklist with a key to the genera of Australian psyllids (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Psylloidea)
Authors: MARTONI FRANCESCO , BARTLETT JUSTIN S. , MOIR MELINDA L. , STEINBAUER MARTIN J. , TAYLOR GARY S.
Published: August 2024

The diversity of the psyllids of Australia reflects that of the plants of this country, with large radiations and ecological dominance of Myrtaceae (e.g., Eucalyptus), Fabaceae (e.g., Acacia), Casuarinaceae (e.g., Allocasuarina, Casuarina) and Scrophulariaceae (e.g., Eremophila, Myoporum). Within Australian ecosystems, psyllids are critical components of food webs, especially with respect to providing energy-rich resources for many species of birds and insects and, historically, humans. Furthermore, in horticulture, agriculture and forestry, some Australian psyllid species are considered pests, causing leaf senescence and ‘dieback’, leaf deformation and inducing growth of sooty mould, with some adventive species capable of acting as vectors of plant pathogens. Several species are considered beneficial, having been introduced as biological control agents of weeds. Additionally, some Australian psyllids have established in other countries, or in regions within Australia that are not within their natural range; while others have such limited geographical ranges that they are of conservation concern. Here we provide an updated checklist of the species of Psylloidea present in Australia and updated a previous key to their genera based on adult morphology. This is the first checklist of the Australian psyllids compiled since the most recent global taxonomic classification, and provides detailed information on biogeographical, ecological and anthropogenic aspects, including global distribution, host plant data, pest status, conservation status, parasitoids, predators, and biological control programs. Our checklist includes information on 66 genera and 450 species, 414 formally described and 36 awaiting descriptions. This represents an increase of almost 20% of species since the last published checklist of 2004, which reported 354 described and 21 undescribed taxa. Additionally, we summarise the available information on more than 150 undescribed taxa. Finally, we reported here more than 60 new records, between distributions and host plant associations.
A New Paradigm for Active–Break Cycle in the Indian Summer Monsoon
Authors: Krishnamurthy V. , Shukla J.
Published: August 2024

A multichannel singular spectrum analysis of 121 years of daily rainfall over India and 43 years of outgoing longwave radiation and horizontal wind has revealed two dominant intraseasonal oscillations (ISOs) that describe the space–time variability of monsoon rainfall. The two nonlinear oscillations are not perfectly periodic but exhibit broadband spectra centered at 45 and 28 days. These modes have coherent and near-regular spatial structure and temporal variations. This study posits that the two nonlinear oscillations provide a consistent and comprehensive framework to study the variability and predictability of intraseasonal rainfall variations. The active and break cycles of monsoon rainfall over India have been traditionally defined by using an arbitrarily chosen duration of persistence of arbitrarily chosen amount of rainfall averaged over an arbitrarily chosen area. This study shows that the phases of the two objectively derived modes of variability provide an objective method for defining the active and break cycles. The two ISOs are further shown to make negligible contribution to the seasonal mean rainfall and its interannual variability. This study proposes that the investigations of the origins of these nonlinear modes, and modulations of their amplitudes and phases, provide a new paradigm for future research on validation and predictability of intraseasonal variations in climate models.
The Role of Atmospheric Rivers Moisture Origin in the Seasonality of Extreme Precipitation in the Eastern United States
Authors: Aljoda Ali , Dhakal Nirajan
Published: August 2024

Regional patterns of the seasonal weather and atmospheric moisture origins can impact the seasonal activities of extreme precipitation in the eastern United States (eUS). At many locations, tracks of atmospheric moisture can have different influence on timing of extreme precipitation based on the moisture origin source. In this study, we evaluate the contribution of atmospheric rivers (ARs) and their moisture origin sources to the distribution and seasonal effectivity of annual maximum precipitation (AMP) across the eUS during 1950–2021. Our results suggest that AR is a dominant mechanism of AMP in the eUS as it contributes to 75% (31 438 out of 41 976) of total AMP events recorded between 1950 and 2021. The seasonal analysis based on the circular density approach shows that spring, summer, and fall seasons display strong signals of seasonality of AMP-AR events. The spatial patterns of AMP associated with the four major moisture sources (the Pacific Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean, the combined source of the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, and the local source of moisture) reinforce the key role ARs play in transporting water vapor to the eUS from both oceanic and inland originated moisture. The results additionally highlight the importance of moisture subsources (major source subregions) in modulating the seasonality of extreme precipitation in the eUS.
Image analysis to evaluate removal of particles from fabric surface
Authors: Cho Yoonkyung , Kim Sungmin
Published: August 2024

We propose an objective method to quantify the solid-particle removal rate from fabric. The method extracts the ratio ( K/S) λ of light absorption K to scattering S at wavelength λ from fused digital images captured under a stereo photometric system in which illumination is from four directions. Three different white polyester fabrics were contaminated with iron oxide particles. Digital images of the fabrics were obtained before contamination, then before and after cleaning. The ( K/S) λ ratios extracted from images were used in a fabric-detergency formula to determine the solid-particle removal rate. Digital image acquisition conditions were optimized to minimize the effects of fabric structural factors. Our method was faster, more accurate, and cheaper than existing methods. Moreover, it is nondestructive and does not require a tracer. The average accuracy of the proposed method was improved by 44.77% compared with the existing surface reflectance method and by 42.51% compared with the binary image method. Moreover, the accuracy was further increased by calculating ( K/S) λ for a signal that corresponds to the color of the contaminant particles. This method can be used to quantify the effectiveness of self-cleaning textiles and garment-care machines.
Comprehensive evaluation of the Paleogene lacustrine source rocks within the Bodong Sag, Bohai Bay Basin using kinetics-based petroleum system modeling
Authors: Yan Xinyu , Wang Zhenliang , Wang Deying , Wang Feilong , Chen Rongtao , Zhang Kuaile , Yin Xiangnan
Published: August 2024

The hydrocarbon potential of the Bodong Sag remains unclear. Investigation and comprehensive evaluation of Paleogene lacustrine source rocks is essential to determine the exploration potential and direction. This study examined the Paleogene source rocks using organic geochemical methods, including total organic carbon (TOC), Rock-Eval pyrolysis, maceral composition, vitrinite reflectance (Ro), and kinetic analysis. For the first time in this study area, a three-dimensional (3D) kinetics-based petroleum system modeling approach was employed to reconstruct the burial history, thermal maturity, and hydrocarbon generation history of the source rocks. The resource mass was evaluated based on the calculated generation mass. Results indicate that the third member (E2s3) and first member (E3s1) of the Shahejie Formation are mainly Type II1 organic matter, exhibiting high generation potential. The third member of the Dongying Formation (E3d3) contains mixed Type II1 and II2 organic matter, with moderate potential. The E2s3 and E3s1 source rocks matured early, entering the oil window in the Early Oligocene (∼30.3 Ma) and Middle Oligocene (∼28 Ma), respectively, and are currently in the wet gas to dry gas stage. The E3d3 source rocks matured later, entering the oil window at the end of the Oligocene (∼24.6 Ma) and are currently in the late oil to the wet gas stage. Subsidence and burial have resulted in higher maturity in the southern subsag compared to the northern subsag, with the margins remaining in low maturity to immature stages. Resource estimates for the Bodong Sag source rocks are quantified at 8.33 × 108 t of oil and 1.68 × 1011 m3 of gas. E2s3, E3s1, and E3d3 contribute 41.62%, 33.95%, and 24.43% respectively, with E2s3 source rocks being the major contributor. The southern subsag, accounting for 76.92%, is the primary hydrocarbon generation kitchen. The significant increase in natural gas resources highlights the prospects for natural gas exploration in the Bodong area.
‘Doesn’t anyone care anymore?’ – Bystander intervention to hate crime
Authors: Flax Maya , Millband Olivia , Grendele Windy
Published: August 2024

While previous studies have focused on bystander intervention, current understanding specifically in the area of bystander intervention to hate crime is limited. This study seeks to focus on bystander intervention to hate crime in the United Kingdom. This study utilised 10 semi-structure interviews with participants who had personally witnessed a hate crime incident, exploring reasons for intervention, or lack thereof. Results revealed that for some who intervened, the decision to do so often stemmed from an instinctive, impulsive place, whereas for others it was a calculative decision-making process. The findings also reveal that there are various factors which influence participants in deciding whether to intervene. Critically, while all factors were described as pivotal to influencing participants in choosing whether to intervene or remain bystanders, there was no hierarchy of factors which can be generalised. The study concludes that the decision to intervene is a complex multi-faceted process and promotes awareness-raising about the various options available when witnessing a hate crime.
Impact of functional groups on aboveground biomass in alpine grassland communities
Authors: Wang Yijia , Liu Yanxu , Ding Jingyi , Chen Peng , Zhan Tianyu , Yao Ying , Song Jiaxi , Fu Bojie
Published: August 2024

Alpine grasslands on the Tibetan Plateau (TP) are highly vulnerable to various treatments and face significant degradation risks due to global environmental changes. However, the response of these grasslands to different external treatments remains uncertain, and the patterns behind functional group responses are unclear, impeding our ability to restore alpine grasslands under changing climate. To address this gap, we compiled a comprehensive database of 797 experimental observations of alpine grasslands in the TP, classified these communities into four common functional groups (e.g., grass and sedge), and conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the response of aboveground biomass (AGB) to nine different treatments (e.g., grazing and nitrogen addition). Meta-regression was used to analyze the changes in AGB with treatment intensity and duration. We also used functional group asynchrony and unevenness to describe the complementary effects (CEs) and selection effects (SEs) of communities under these treatments. We found that among all the nine treatments, grazing had the biggest negative impact on the alpine grassland community by reducing AGB by 40.3%, mainly through decreasing the biomass of grass and sedge. Conversely, nitrogen and phosphorus addition had the largest positive effect, increasing AGB by 39.4% mainly by promoting the growth of grass. However, the increase in AGB was not significant in the interactive experiments involving grazing and nitrogen addition. The unevenness of the community decreased as grazing time prolongs, simplifying the structure of the community, with severe nutrient losses and weakened CE, while nitrogen addition could rapidly increase the AGB of grass and enhance the SE. CE or SE of communities can be enhanced through the restoration of specific functional groups, favoring the recovery of vegetation. Our study also revealed the potential of nitrogen compensation for repairing the damage caused by overgrazing on alpine grasslands.
Case Series of 6 Fetuses With Osteogenesis Imperfecta Type II: A Retrospective Study of Heart Pathology
Authors: Verdonk Sara J. E. , Storoni Silvia , Zhytnik Lidiia , Micha Dimitra , van den Aardweg Joost G. , Kamp Otto , Eekhoff Elisabeth M. W. , Bugiani Marianna
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by bone fragility. While skeletal manifestations are well documented, few studies have explored the effect of OI on the fetal heart. This retrospective case series investigates cardiac pathology in OI type II fetuses, aiming to address this gap.

Methods:

Medical records and autopsy reports of 6 genetically confirmed OI type II cases were examined. Fetuses had pathogenic variants in COL1A1 or PPIB, inducing structural defects in collagen type I. In addition to hematoxylin and eosin and Elastic van Gieson staining, the expression of collagen type I, COL1A1 and COL1A2 chains was examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results:

Immunohistochemistry confirmed robust expression of collagen type I throughout the heart. Five fetuses had normal heart weight, while 1 had a low heart weight in the context of generalized growth retardation. None displayed structural heart anomalies.

Conclusion:

This study reveals robust collagen type I expression in the hearts of OI type II fetuses without structural anomalies. We hypothesize that collagen type I abnormalities may not be causative factors for heart anomalies during early embryonic development. Instead, their impact may be conceivably related to an increased susceptibility to degenerative changes later in life.
Damage of Nickel-coated glass/epoxy foam-core composites induced by artificial lightning strikes
Authors: Hoang Van-Tho , Choi Won-Ho , Lee Juhyeong , Park Chanyeop , Kweon Jin-Hwe , Kwak Byeong-Su , Nam Young-Woo
Published: August 2024

In the field of composite materials, many reports have shown that catastrophic structural damage is caused by lightning strikes. In this study, new design concepts were proposed for the lightning-strike protection of nickel-coated glass/epoxy foam-core composites. Instead of using a neat metal mesh, glass fibers were modified with nickel particles via a plating technique to improve their thermal and electrical conductivities. In addition, a thin Invar plate was inserted at the middle of the structure and a foam core was introduced to reduce damage to the structure. Three models with different materials and stacking sequences were used in this study. Severe damage was experimentally observed following artificial lightning at a peak current of approximately 150 kA when considering a waveform A. Furthermore, numerical prediction was performed to identify the damage mechanisms of the structures. Besides the heat flux source, a mechanical source known as the shock wave overpressure was investigated separately as a new factor for dielectric materials. These two sources of lightning were determined as minor reasons for the structural damage. The failure modes were analyzed for further discussion about the failure mechanism in this study.
Discrepancies in the results reported for multiple sclerosis clinical trials: A comparison between ClinicalTrials.gov and peer-reviewed journals
Authors: Rivero-de-Aguilar Alejandro , Pérez-Ríos Mónica , Mascareñas-García Marta , Ruano-Raviña Alberto , Ross Joseph S , Casal-Acción Beatriz , Varela-Lema Leonor
Published: August 2024

Objective:

We aimed to compare the results of phase III and IV clinical trials examining drugs to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) registered at ClinicalTrials.gov to those published in peer-reviewed journals.

Methods:

After identifying trials registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, consecutive searches were conducted in PubMed, EMBASE and Google Scholar for matching publications. Information regarding participants and efficacy and safety results was extracted and compared. The degree of consistency was classified as ‘concordant’, ‘discrepant’ or ‘not comparable’. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to model time to reporting.

Results:

In total, 65 trials were appraised. The median time from completion to reporting was shorter for ClinicalTrials.gov (16.4 vs 27.3 months; p = 0.010). Information availability was generally higher in journals except for serious adverse events (SAEs) (86.2% vs 100.0%, p = 0.029) and their description (78.2% vs 100.0%, p < 0.001). However, 45 trials had at least one reporting discrepancy (69.2%). Three studies omitted one or more primary outcomes in the matching journal publication. Regarding safety results, the lowest consistencies were found for causes of death (60.0%) and description of SAEs (27.9%).

Conclusion:

Consulting both ClinicalTrials.gov and journals increases the accessibility to MS clinical trial results. Some data were frequently missing or disagreed between sources, raising concerns about transparency and generalizability of results.
‘It Will Start With Me’: A Documentary Film Exploring the Benefits and Challenges of Participatory Research
Authors: Birol Bircan , Clayton Virginie , Mbayi Gislaine , Gitamvu Lydia , Sadaf Syeda , Casas Tortoledo Lill , Al Zaidi Weam , Coyle Jennie , Owens-Crossman Lily , Garnham Lisa M
Published: August 2024

‘It will start with me’ documents the experiences of six peer researchers (Virginie Clayton, Gislaine Mbayi, Lydia Gitamvu, Syeda Sadaf, Lill Casas Tortoledo, Weam Al Zaidi), one professional researcher (Lisa Garnham), and one post-graduate research student (Lily Owens-Crossman), who came together to design, develop, and deliver an evaluation of a community project (Our Rights, Our Communities) in Glasgow, Scotland in 2022. The ambitions and priorities of the peer researchers drove both the evaluation and the film, which was facilitated by film-maker Bircan Birol. The film was created to describe the power of research through co-production, to both professional and community-based researchers, and demonstrates the importance of ‘holding space’ for marginalised voices in sociological research.