bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconstructing bird trajectories from pressure and wind data using a highly optimized hidden Markov model
Authors: Nussbaumer Raphaël , Gravey Mathieu , Briedis Martins , Liechti Felix , Sheldon Daniel
Published: March 2023

Tracking technologies have widely expanded our understanding of bird migration routes, destinations and underlying strategies. However, determining the entire trajectory of small birds equipped with lightweight geolocators remains a challenge.

We develop a highly optimized hidden Markov model (HMM) for reconstructing bird trajectories. The observation model is defined by pressure and, optionally, light measurements, while the movement model incorporates wind data to constrain consecutive positions based on realistic airspeeds. To reduce the computational costs associated with a large state space, we prune the HMM states and transitions based on flight and observation constraints to efficiently model the entire trajectory.

The approach presented is based on a mathematically exact procedure and is fast to compute. We demonstrate how to compute (1) the most likely trajectory, (2) the marginal probability map of each stationary period, (3) simulated trajectories and (4) the wind conditions (wind support/drift) encountered by the bird during each migratory flight.

We construct a version of an HMM optimized for reconstructing a bird's migration trajectory based on lightweight geolocator data. To render this approach easily accessible to researchers, we designed a dedicated R package GeoPressureR (https://raphaelnussbaumer.com/GeoPressureR/).
Using standardized fish‐specific autonomous reef monitoring structures (FARMS) to quantify cryptobenthic fish communities
Authors: Brandl Simon J. , Weigt Lee A. , Pitassy Diane E. , Coker Darren J. , Patrick Christopher J. , Luchese Matheus H. , Berumen Michael L. , Buskey Edward J. , Casey Jordan M. , Di Domenico Maikon , Soeth Marcelo , Topor Zachary M. , Duffy J. Emmett , Baldwin Carole C. , Hagedorn Mary , Parenti Lynne R.
Published: March 2023

Biodiversity inventories and monitoring techniques for marine fishes often overlook small (<5 cm), bottom‐associated (‘cryptobenthic’) fishes, and few standardized, comparative assessments of cryptobenthic fish communities exist. We sought to develop a standardized, quantitative survey method for cryptobenthic fishes that permits their sampling across a variety of habitats and conditions.

Fish‐specific autonomous reef monitoring structures (FARMS) are designed to sample cryptobenthic fishes using a suite of accessible and affordable materials. To generate a variety of microhabitats, FARMS consist of three layers of stacked PVC pipes in three different sizes, as well as a bottom and top level of loose PVC‐pipe fragments in a mesh basket. We deployed FARMS across a variety of habitats, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, oyster reefs, mangroves, and soft‐bottom habitats across six locations (Hawai'i, Texas, Panama, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and Curaçao).

From shallow estuaries to coral reefs beyond 100 m depth, FARMS attracted distinct communities of native cryptobenthic fishes with strong site or habitat specificity. Comparing the FARMS to communities sampled with alternative methods (enclosed clove‐oil stations on coral reefs in Panama and oyster sampling units on oyster reefs in Texas) suggests that FARMS yield a subset of cryptobenthic fish species that are representative of those present on local coral and oyster reefs. While FARMS yield fewer individuals per sample, they are efficient sampling devices relative to the sampled area.

We demonstrate that FARMS represent a useful tool for standardized collections of cryptobenthic fishes. While natural substrata are bound to yield more mature communities with a larger number of individuals and wider range of specialist species, the potential to deploy and retrieve FARMS in turbid environments, beyond regular SCUBA depth, and where fish collections using anaesthetics or ichthyocides are forbidden suggests that they are a valuable complementary technique to survey fishes in aquatic ecosystems. Deploying FARMS in locations and habitats where cryptobenthic fish communities have not been studied in detail may yield many valuable specimens of unknown or poorly known species.
Associations between nonfatal firearm injuries and risk of subsequent suicide among Veteran VA users: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Carlson Kathleen F. , Gilbert Tess A. , Maxim Lauren , Hooker Elizabeth R. , Shull Sarah , DeBeer Bryann , DeFrancesco Susan , Denneson Lauren
Published: March 2023

Background

Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States, particularly among Veterans. Nonfatal firearm injuries may indicate subsequent risk of suicide and, thus, provide important opportunities for prevention in emergency departments and other health care settings. We used a retrospective cohort design to analyze associations between nonfatal firearm injuries and subsequent suicide among all Veterans who used U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care, nationally, between 2010 and 2019.

Methods

We linked VA health care and mortality data to identify VA users, nonfatal firearm injuries, and deaths. International Classification of Diseases (ICD)–10th Revision cause‐of‐death codes were used to identify suicides. Veterans' firearm injuries and their intent were categorized using cause‐of‐injury codes from the ICD Clinical Modification–9th and 10th Revisions systems. Using bivariable and multivariable regression, we estimated risk of subsequent suicide among Veterans with, versus without, nonfatal firearm injuries. Among Veterans with nonfatal firearm injuries, we examined characteristics associated with subsequent suicide; electronic health record (chart) reviews explored documentation about firearm access among those who died.

Results

Among 9,817,020 VA‐using Veterans, 11,503 experienced nonfatal firearm injuries (64.9% unintentional, 12.3% intentional self‐harm, 18.5% assault). Of these, 69 (0.6%) subsequently died by suicide (42 involving firearms). The odds of subsequent suicide among Veterans with, versus without, nonfatal firearm injuries were 2.4 (95% confidence interval 1.9–3.0); odds were only slightly attenuated in multivariable modeling. Among Veterans with nonfatal firearm injuries, those with depression or substance use disorder diagnoses had twice the odds of subsequent suicide than those without. Chart reviews identified small proportions of suicide decedents who were assessed for (21.7%), and/or counseled about (15.9%), firearm access.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that Veterans' nonfatal firearm injuries, regardless of injury intent, may be important but underutilized opportunities for suicide prevention. Future work should explore mechanisms to reduce risk among these patients.
Musket War and Musket trade: The New South Wales to New Zealand firearms trade, 1829–1840
Authors: Hepburn‐Roper Sebastian
Published: March 2023

The intertribal Musket wars that spread throughout Māori society in the 1820s and 1830s have received much attention from historians. This is also true of the history of trade between New South Wales and New Zealand occurring at the same time. However, at present, the link between these two phenomena remains poorly established. This article draws on the primary material available about the trans‐Tasman arms trade from a relatively untapped source, Sydney newspapers, revealing the surprising extent of this commerce and the fact that firearms imports peaked in the early 1830s. This information necessarily requires revision of our understanding of the Musket wars themselves.
The c.126C>A(p.(Cys42Ter)) SLC7A10 nonsense variant is a candidate causative variant for paradoxical pseudomyotonia in English Cocker and Springer Spaniels
Authors: Van Poucke Mario , Stee Kimberley , Lowrie Mark , Peelman Luc
Published: March 2023

Paradoxical pseudomyotonia has previously been described in the English Cocker Spaniel (ECS) and English Springer Spaniel (ESS) breeds, without the identification of potentially causative variants. This disease is characterised by episodes of exercise‐induced generalised myotonic‐like muscle stiffness, phenotypically similar to congenital pseudomyotonia in cattle, and paramyotonia congenita and Brody disease in people. Four additional affected ESS dogs with paradoxical pseudomyotonia are described in this report, together with the identification of the autosomal recessive c.126C>A(p.(Cys42Ter)) SLC7A10 nonsense variant as candidate disease‐causing variant in both ECS and ESS. The variant has an estimated prevalence of 2.5% in both breeds in the British study samples, but was not identified in the Belgian study samples. Genetic testing‐based breeding should be a useful tool to eliminate this disease in the future, although an effective treatment option is available for severely affected dogs.
Older adults with schizophrenia and dementia: Analysis of a national dataset
Authors: Mentzel Charlotte , Taube Clare , Glue Paul , Barak Yoram
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Individuals with schizophrenia develop dementia in late life at higher rates than the general population. This is arguably explained by high rates of chronic medical conditions and exposure to antipsychotic medications. This risk has implications for public health. We aimed to test this in a large New Zealand database.

Methods

Participants in this study were New Zealanders aged 65 years or older who had an interRAI assessment completed during the study period (July 2013–June 2020). This cohort study analysed data from 168,780 individuals. The majority were European (87%), and mostly assessment was for home care (86%).

Results

There were 2103 individuals with schizophrenia, 1.25% of the total sample, mean age of 75 years (±1.9) and 61% female. A minority of individuals with schizophrenia, 23%, also had a dementia diagnosis. At 82 years of age (±1.7) and 60% female, 25% of individuals without schizophrenia had a dementia diagnosis; the difference from rate of dementia in individuals with schizophrenia was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that further study is needed about the processes that lead to dementia diagnoses in older individuals with schizophrenia.
Food protein‐induced enterocolitis syndrome among children in northern Sweden—A retrospective review from 2004–2018
Authors: Öhlund Magnus , Liljeholm Sara , Strinnholm Åsa , Winberg Anna
Published: March 2023

Aim

To describe clinical presentation and development of tolerance among children with Food protein‐induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) in a population in northern Sweden.

Methods

A retrospective review of medical records of children presenting with FPIES symptoms from 1 January 2004, to 31 May 2018.

Results

Sixty children (65% boys) with FPIES were included. The estimated incidence gradually increased to 0.45% in 2016–2017. The most common food triggers were cow's milk (40%), fish (37%) and oat (23%). Symptoms presented in 31 (60%) children before 6 months and in 57 (95%) before 1 year of age. The median age for FPIES diagnosis was 7 (range 3–134) months and for fish FPIES 13 (range 7–134) months. By 3 years of age, 67% of children with FPIES to milk and oat but none of the children with fish FPIES had developed tolerance. Allergic conditions like eczema and asthma were reported in 52% of the children.

Conclusion

The cumulative FPIES incidence was 0.45% in 2016–2017. Most children presented with symptoms before 1 year of age, but the diagnosis was often delayed, especially for FPIES to fish. Tolerance development occurred at an earlier age when FPIES was triggered by milk and oat compared to fish.
Coarse‐grained, marine, sub‐wave base, high‐angle clinoform sets: A little‐known outcrop facies illustrated by Jurassic examples from East Greenland
Authors: Surlyk Finn , Larsen Michael
Published: March 2023

Outcrops of coarse‐grained, high‐angle clinoform sets are mainly thought to represent Gilbert‐type deltas. Superficially similar clinoform sets may, however, form in marine, sub‐wave base settings. They are interpreted to have formed as a result of storms where downwelling, seaward‐directed currents transported sand from the coastal area and shoreface across the shelf in suspension or as bedload to be deposited as clinothems. An additional transport of sand took place by strong coast‐parallel currents. The clinoform sets appear to be associated with rift events, the creation of accommodation space and an increasing supply of coarse‐grained sediment. A major protracted rift phase was initiated in East Greenland in Middle Jurassic times and intensified through the Late Jurassic to reach a climax close to the Jurassic–Cretaceous boundary. Rifting caused uplift of borderlands, creation of accommodation space and development of shallow marine shelves passing offshore into submarine slopes and deeper basinal areas. Each rift event was accompanied by the formation of clinoform sets prograding seawards towards the east and southeast away from the cratonic coastline in water depths below the wave base. The clinoform sets are interpreted as typical motifs for rift events in the relatively shallow epeiric Jurassic seaway between East Greenland and Norway. Outcrops of such sets represent a little‐known, commonly misinterpreted sedimentary system and may serve as motifs for rifting in shallow marine areas elsewhere in the geological record. Similar sets have been recorded in outcrop from the Mediterranean, and elsewhere and are probably more common than hitherto realized.
Behavioural evolution of Neotropical social wasps (Vespidae: Polistinae): the queen selection process
Authors: Chavarría‐Pizarro Laura , da Silva Marjorie , Ament Danilo C. , Almeida Eduardo A. B. , Noll Fernando Barbosa
Published: March 2023

All Epiponini wasps are polygynic, with multiple queens alternating over the colony cycle. There are several potential queens in the early stages of this cycle, but as it progresses, the number of queens is reduced. Because most individuals remain reproductively totipotent, there is great potential for conflicts over reproduction. Workers could have an advantage in controlling queen production because they are much more numerous than queens. Nevertheless, the queen selection process is little known for Epiponini. For this reason, we aimed to study the behaviour of queens and workers during queen selection in multiple species of Epiponini, integrate information from previous behavioural studies, and perform a comparative analysis to interpret changes evolutionarily. We conducted observations on nine species belonging to five genera: Brachygastra, Chartergellus, Metapolybia, Polybia and Protopolybia. Females were individually marked to make direct and video observations. Queen production was artificially induced. A total of 28 behaviours related to queen selection were identified. The most aggressive interactions between castes, such as bite and dart, were lost in the major lineages of Epiponini. Bending display I is an ancient behaviour used as the main dominance display. Behaviours exhibited by workers to test queen status arose in the common ancestor of the Epiponini and are not shared by other polistine wasps. Consequently, the act of workers testing queen status probably was present in the Epiponini ancestor. Ritualized test display and dominance behaviours are used in Epiponini as honest signals of the queen's reproductive potential instead of aggressive behaviours. Caste flexibility had already been suggested as the ground plan for Epiponini and is herein discussed as decisive for colony survival of swarm wasps, because it allows colonies to respond efficiently to different situations that may eventually arise.
Umbilical cord blood–derived exosomes from healthy term pregnancies protect against hyperoxia‐induced lung injury in mice
Authors: Zhong Xin‐qi , Wang Ding , Chen Shuang , Zheng Jing , Hao Tao‐fang , Li Xiu‐hong , Luo Li‐hua , Gu Jian , Lian Chang‐yu , Li Xiao‐sa , Chen Dun‐jin
Published: March 2023

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a chronic, devastating disease primarily occurring in premature infants. To date, intervention strategies to prevent or treat BPD are limited. We aimed to determine the effects of umbilical cord blood‐derived exosomes (UCB‐EXOs) from healthy term pregnancies on hyperoxia‐induced lung injury and to identify potential targets for BPD intervention. A mouse model of hyperoxia‐induced lung injury was created by exposing neonatal mice to hyperoxia after birth until the 14th day post birth. Age‐matched neonatal mice were exposed to normoxia as the control. Hyperoxia‐induced lung injury mice were intraperitoneally injected with UCB‐EXO or vehicle daily for 3 days, starting on day 4 post birth. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were insulted with hyperoxia to establish an in vitro model of BPD to investigate angiogenesis dysfunction. Our results showed that UCB‐EXO alleviated lung injuries in hyperoxia‐insulted mice by reducing histopathological grade and collagen contents in the lung tissues. UCB‐EXO also promoted vascular growth and increased miR‐185‐5p levels in the lungs of hyperoxia‐insulted mice. Additionally, we found that UCB‐EXO elevated miR‐185‐5p levels in HUVECs. MiR‐185‐5p overexpression inhibited cell apoptosis, whereas promoted cell migration in HUVECs exposed to hyperoxia. The luciferase reporter assay results revealed that miR‐185‐5p directly targeted cyclin‐dependent kinase 6 (CDK6), which was downregulated in the lungs of hyperoxia‐insulted mice. Together, these data suggest that UCB‐EXO from healthy term pregnancies protect against hyperoxia‐induced lung injuries via promoting neonatal pulmonary angiogenesis partially by elevating miR‐185‐5p.
Does ethnicity impact CYP2D6 genotype–phenotype relationships?
Authors: Frederiksen Trine , Areberg Johan , Schmidt Ellen , Stage Tore Bjerregaard , Brøsen Kim
Published: March 2023

Polymorphism of the CYP2D6 gene leads to substantial interindividual variability in CYP2D6 enzyme activity. Despite improvements in prediction of CYP2D6 activity based on genotype information, large interindividual variability within CYP2D6 genotypes remains and ethnicity could be a contributing factor. The aim of this study was to investigate interethnic differences in CYP2D6 activity using clinical datasets of three CYP2D6 substrates: (i) brexpiprazole (N = 476), (ii) tedatioxetine (N = 500), and (iii) vortioxetine (N = 1073). The CYP2D6 activity of all individuals in the dataset was estimated through population pharmacokinetic analyses as previously reported. Individuals were assigned a CYP2D6 phenotype and CYP2D6 genotype group based on their CYP2D6 genotype and interethnic differences were investigated within each group. Among individuals categorized as CYP2D6 normal metabolizers, African Americans had a lower CYP2D6 activity compared to Asians (p < 0.01) and in the tedatioxetine and vortioxetine analyses also compared to Whites (p < 0.01). Among CYP2D6 intermediate metabolizers, interethnic differences were also observed, but the findings were not consistent across the substrates. Asian carriers of CYP2D6 decreased function alleles tended to exhibit higher CYP2D6 activity compared to Whites and African Americans. The observed interethnic differences within the CYP2D6 phenotype and genotype groups appeared to be driven by differences in CYP2D6 allele frequencies across ethnicities rather than interethnic differences in enzyme activity for individuals carrying identical CYP2D6 genotypes.
‘Fundermediaries’ in Nairobi, Kenya: Development Partnerships in the Aid Chain
Authors: Woensdregt Lise , Nencel Lorraine
Published: March 2023

By representing the voice of communities, community‐based organizations (CBOs) are increasingly joining development partnerships. This article explores the inherently contradictory relationship between ‘voice raising’ and the politics of listening. While academia has mostly focused on the inclusion of CBOs, few studies have approached this subject from the perspective of the listening practices of ‘fundermediaries’ (a portmanteau term combining ‘funder’ and ‘intermediary’). This ethnographic research on a CBO led by male sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya, illustrates that the listening ability of fundermediaries hinges on their position in the aid chain, and specifically on the dynamics of their own accountability. The analysis distinguishes between two partnership types. The first uses a pragmatic approach, which ultimately limits the channels for CBOs to be included and heard, resulting in them having to ‘make noise’ to ensure they are heard. The second creates more possibilities to listen, engages in constructive dialogues with partner CBOs, and includes the ideas and expertise of CBOs in development strategies; hence, CBOs feel heard and are positive about these partnerships. Improved listening practices facilitate opportunities to reconfigure the position of the different actors in development partnerships and can benefit both the positions of CBOs in the aid chain and the programmatic outcomes of fundermediaries.
Substantial niche overlap in carrion beetle habitat and vegetation use
Authors: Garfinkel Chloe F. , McCain Christy M.
Published: March 2023

The habitat affinities of carrion beetles (Coleoptera: Silphidae), a speciose group with wide cooccurrence, are only coarsely described for well‐studied species, particularly in the western United States.

We aim to identify if the 15 species of montane carrion beetle in Colorado differ substantially in their use of habitats and across more uniquely defined, fine‐scale vegetation characteristics.

Habitat and vegetation data as well as carrion beetle abundance were collected along four elevational transects in the Front Range and San Juan Mountains from 2010 to 2012 across 32 sites. Multiple habitat types were sampled, including forest, meadow, riparian, rocky outcrops and tundra. The fine‐scale vegetation characteristics included percent coverage of ground vegetation (grass, forb, shrub, cacti, bare ground), understory vegetation biomass and height, canopy cover and tree species, number and size. Canonical correspondence analysis models examined whether vegetation characteristics strongly segregated species using abundances and presence‐absences.

Habitat and vegetation models explained a maximum of 18.93% of the variation in species' abundances and 2.48% in species' presence–absences. Only one likely habitat specialist was identified by the models (Heterosilpha ramosa) and the remaining species had substantial overlap in habitat and vegetation use. The arid, low productivity and generally open understory habitats in Colorado mountains likely play a large role in the substantial vegetation overlap.

Other mechanisms of partitioning likely exist in this system to reduce niche overlap, which could include differences in activity time and seasonality, physiological traits, other life history strategies and body size.
Otolith 87Sr/86Sr identifies natal origin, movement and life history of Burbot Lota lota in the Kootenai River following 45 years of impoundment
Authors: Dunnigan James L. , Linley Timothy J. , Janak Jill M. , Nims Megan K. , Garavelli Lysel , McMichael Geoffrey A.
Published: March 2023

Hydropower has long been an effective form of renewable energy, but the development of the resource has negatively impacted fishes throughout the world. Formulating recovery plans to mitigate these effects requires a firm understanding of species‐specific provenance, life history and life stage habitat requirements. However, the importance of this information is often only recognised after a substantial population decline, when obtaining it becomes demographically challenging. We provide a case study for this scenario and present a post hoc approach to gain insight into these critical data gaps for Burbot Lota lota in the upper Kootenai River in Montana and British Columbia. The population once supported a robust tribal and recreational harvest but declined following impoundment and these fisheries have remained closed or curtailed for nearly 20 years. The reasons for the decline are unknown and actions to assist recovery have been constrained by limited information regarding natal origin, life history and habitat use. We addressed this issue using strontium isotope ratios (87Sr/86Sr) in otoliths collected over four decades in Lake Koocanusa, the reservoir on the Kootenai River above Libby Dam. Due to the geologic heterogeneity of the basin and resulting variation in water 87Sr/86Sr, the assignment probability for Burbot to their region of natal origin approached unity. Otolith 87Sr/86Sr also indicated the population was comprised of mainstem‐ and tributary‐origin forms and their relative abundance changed over time. Mainstem Burbot was most abundant during the 1970s and 2000s, whereas tributary forms dominated between these periods. We suggest ecosystem changes following impoundment contributed to this shift in life history forms and the overall decline of the population. Our findings underscore the need for additional investigations of these impacts to guide restoration efforts.
Effect of temporal frequency on habituation in migraine
Authors: Sharp Alex , Föcker Julia , O'Hare Louise
Published: March 2023

Individuals with migraine tend to experience discomfort when viewing flickering stimuli. It has been suggested that one of the characteristics of migraine is a lack of habituation to repetitive visual stimuli, although findings can be mixed. Previous work has typically used similar visual stimuli (chequerboard) and only one temporal frequency. This study systematically varied the spatial and temporal characteristics of the visual stimulus, using steady‐state visual evoked potentials to assess the differences in amplitude between migraine and control group over consecutive blocks of stimulation. Twenty individuals with migraine and 18 control observers were asked to rate their visual discomfort after viewing sequences of flickering Gabor patches with a frequency of either 3 or 9 Hz across three different spatial frequencies (low 0.5 cpd; mid‐range 3 cpd; high 12 cpd). Compared to the control group, the migraine group showed a reduction in SSVEP responses with increased exposure, suggesting habituation processes are intact at 3‐Hz stimulation. However, at 9‐Hz stimulation, there was evidence of increased responses with increasing exposure in the migraine group in particular, which might suggest a build‐up of the response over repetitive presentations. Visual discomfort varied with spatial frequency, for both 3‐ and 9‐Hz stimuli, the highest spatial frequencies were the least uncomfortable compared to the low‐ and mid‐range spatial frequencies in both groups. This difference in SSVEP response behaviour, dependent on temporal frequency, is important to consider when researching the effects of repetitive visual stimulation in migraine and could give some indication of build‐up of effects leading to aversion to visual stimuli.
Cannabinoid regulation of neurons in the dentate gyrus during epileptogenesis: Role of CB1R‐associated proteins and downstream pathways
Authors: Lafourcade Carlos A. , Sparks Fraser T. , Bordey Angelique , Wyneken Ursula , Mohammadi Michael H.
Published: March 2023

The hippocampal formation plays a central role in the development of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), a disease characterized by recurrent, unprovoked epileptic discharges. TLE is a neurologic disorder characterized by acute long‐lasting seizures (i.e., abnormal electrical activity in the brain) or seizures that occur in close proximity without recovery, typically after a brain injury or status epilepticus. After status epilepticus, epileptogenic hyperexcitability develops gradually over the following months to years, resulting in the emergence of chronic, recurrent seizures. Acting as a filter or gate, the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) normally prevents excessive excitation from propagating through the hippocampus, and is considered a critical region in the progression of epileptogenesis in pathological conditions. Importantly, lipid‐derived endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), which are produced on demand as retrograde messengers, are central regulators of neuronal activity in the DG circuit. In this review, we summarize recent findings concerning the role of the DG in controlling hyperexcitability and propose how DG regulation by cannabinoids (CBs) could provide avenues for therapeutic interventions. We also highlight possible pathways and manipulations that could be relevant for the control of hyperexcitation. The use of CB compounds to treat epilepsies is controversial, as anecdotal evidence is not always validated by clinical trials. Recent publications shed light on the importance of the DG as a region regulating incoming hippocampal excitability during epileptogenesis. We review recent findings concerning the modulation of the hippocampal DG circuitry by CBs and discuss putative underlying pathways. A better understanding of the mechanisms by which CBs exert their action during seizures may be useful to improve therapies.
Should substitution monotherapy or combination therapy be used after failure of the first antiseizure medication? Observations from a 30‐year cohort study
Authors: Hakeem Haris , Alsfouk Bshra Ali A. , Kwan Patrick , Brodie Martin J. , Chen Zhibin
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To assess the temporal trends in the use of second antiseizure (ASM) regimens and compare the efficacy of substitution monotherapy and combination therapy after failure of initial monotherapy in people with epilepsy.

Methods

This was a longitudinal observational cohort study conducted at the Epilepsy Unit of the Western Infirmary in Glasgow, Scotland. We included patients who were newly treated for epilepsy with ASMs between July 1982, and October 2012. All patients were followed up for a minimum of 2 years. Seizure freedom was defined as no seizure for at least 1 year on unchanged medication at the last follow up.

Results

During the study period, 498 patients were treated with a second ASM regimen after failure of the initial ASM monotherapy, of whom 346 (69%) were prescribed combination therapy and 152 (31%) were given substitution monotherapy. The proportion of patients receiving second regimen as combination therapy increased during the study period from 46% in first epoch (1985–1994) to 78% in the last (2005–2015) (RR = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.17–2.36, corrected‐p = .010). Overall, 21% (104/498) of the patients achieved seizure freedom on the second ASM regimen, which was less than half of the seizure‐free rate on the initial ASM monotherapy (45%, p < .001). Patients who received substitution monotherapy had similar seizure‐free rate compared with those who received combination therapy (RR = 1.17, 95% CI: 0.81–1.69, p = .41). Individual ASMs used, either alone or in combination, had similar efficacy. However, the subgroup analysis was limited by small sample sizes.

Significance

The choice of second regimen used based on clinical judgment was not associated with treatment outcome in patients whose initial monotherapy failed due to poor seizure control. Alternative approaches such as machine learning should be explored to aid individualized selection of the second ASM regimen.
A comparative study between angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor (thiorphan/irbesartan) with each of nitrate and carvedilol in a rat model of myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury
Authors: Mohammed Abdulsalam Takwa , Hasanin Amany H. , Hussein Mohamed Reham , Khairy Eman , Mahmoud Dalia , Habib Eman K. , Badawy Ahmed El Sayed
Published: March 2023

The combined angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor is a promising cardioprotective pharmacological agent. This study investigated the beneficial effects of thiorphan (TH)/irbesartan (IRB), in myocardial ischemia–reperfusion (IR) injury, compared to each of nitroglycerin and carvedilol. Male Wistar rats were divided into five groups (10 rats/group): Sham, untreated I/R, TH/IRB + IR (0.1/10 mg/kg), nitroglycerin + IR (0.2 mg/kg), and carvedilol + IR (10 mg/kg). Mean arterial blood pressure, cardiac functions and arrhythmia incidence, duration and score were assessed. Cardiac levels of creatine kinase‐MB (CK‐MB), oxidative stress, endothelin‐1, ATP, Na+/K+ ATPase pump activity and mitochondria complexes activities were measured. Histopathological examination, Bcl/Bax immunohistochemistry studies and electron microscopy examination of left ventricle were performed. TH/IRB preserved the cardiac functions and mitochondrial complexes activities, mitigated cardiac damage, reduced oxidative stress and arrhythmia severity, improved the histopathological changes and decreased cardiac apoptosis. TH/IRB showed a comparable effect to each of nitroglycerin and carvedilol in alleviating the IR injury consequences. TH/IRB showed significant preservation of mitochondrial complexes activity I and II compared to nitroglycerin. TH/IRB significantly increased LVdP/dtmax and decreased oxidative stress, cardiac damage and endothelin‐1 along with increasing the ATP content, Na+/K+ ATPase pump activity and mitochondrial complexes activity when compared to carvedilol. TH/IRB showed a cardioprotective effect in reducing IR injury that is comparable to each of nitroglycerin and carvedilol that could be explained in part by its ability to preserve mitochondrial function, increase ATP, decrease oxidative stress as well as endothelin 1.
Inhibition of NorA efflux pump of Staphylococcus aureus by anacardic acids isolated from the cashew nutshell liquid of Anacardium occidentale L.
Authors: Lima Junior Paulo Sousa , Nascimento Hugo José Lopes , Nascimento de Sousa Jonas , Araújo de Alcântara Oliveira Felipe , Maria Duarte Lemos Gabriella , de Andrade Ferreira Barreto Júlia , Kenned Silva Moura Arkellau , Haydée Lima Ferreira Josie , das Graças Lopes Citó Antonia Maria , de Oliveira Mauro Macêdo , Emidio Sampaio Nogueira Carlos , Douglas Melo Coutinho Henrique , Medeiros Barreto Humberto
Published: March 2023

The rising of diseases caused by multidrug‐resistant bacteria has encouraged researchers to explore more antimicrobial substances, as well as chemicals capable of potentiating the action of existing ones against multidrug‐resistant bacteria. Anacardium occidentale produces a fruit known as cashew nut, filled with a dark, almost black, caustic, and flammable liquid called cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL). The goal of the study was to evaluate the intrinsic antimicrobial activity of the major compounds present in CNSL, called anacardic acids (AA), as well as their possible modulatory action as an adjuvant of Norfloxacin against a Staphylococcus aureus strain overproducing the NorA efflux pump (SA1199B). Microdilution assays were performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of AA against different microbial species. Norfloxacin and Ethidium Bromide (EtBr) resistance modulation assays were performed in the presence or absence of AA against SA1199‐B. AA showed antimicrobial activity against Gram‐positive bacterial strains tested but no activity against Gram‐negative bacteria or yeast strains. At subinhibitory concentration, AA reduced the MIC values for Norfloxacin and EtBr against the SA1199‐B strain. Furthermore, AA increased the intracellular accumulation of EtBr in this NorA overproducer strain, indicating that AA are NorA inhibitors. Docking analysis showed that AA probably modulates Norfloxacin efflux by spatial impediment at the same binding site of NorA.
Zine infrastructures as forms of organizing within feminist social movements
Authors: Matich Maggie , Parsons Elizabeth , Ashman Rachel
Published: March 2023

This paper explores how feminist social movements are organized and re‐generated across and through different media, both online and offline, using the example of zines. We critically examine the emergence and growth of an intersectional feminist zine community through a 6‐year in‐depth qualitative netnographic and ethnographic study. Theoretically, we build on work concerning feminist digital information and archival infrastructures, bringing it together with work on feminist digital activism. We make three key contributions: first to theorize zines and their communities as infrastructures, which cut across the social, digital, and material. Second in understanding the political potential of engagements in zine infrastructures in which the individual and collective are entangled, and third in revealing how the current generation of young feminists move across and work at the interfaces of formats to benefit from their synergistic, but also their agonistic, relations to form new affective solidarities.
A Paradoxical Account of Divine Omnipresence
Authors: Price RANDall J.
Published: March 2023

This essay examines the doctrine of divine omnipresence. I begin by presenting three desiderata for an adequate account of omnipresence. Four accounts are analyzed in light of these desiderata, two in the tradition and two in contemporary philosophical theology. I argue that none succeed in providing an adequate account of divine omnipresence. As an alternative, I offer a paradoxical account of omnipresence, arguing that one can be rational in affirming that what appears to be a doctrine afflicted by apparent contradiction is in fact merely a paradox. I explain what makes affirmations of paradoxical doctrines rational, why omnipresence should be understood as a paradox, and discuss a similar account of omnipresence in the writings of Pseudo‐Dionysius the Areopagite.
Libertad de asociación, libertad sindical y negociación colectiva como derechos humanos en la economía de plataformas en un contexto de creciente movilización laboral
Authors: STYLOGIANNIS Charalampos
Published: March 2023

El presente estudio tiene por objeto el ejercicio de los derechos de libertad de asociación, libertad sindical y negociación colectiva de los trabajadores de plataformas, a la luz de las recientes experiencias de organización colectiva en todo el mundo, desde una perspectiva que inscribe esos derechos en el marco de los derechos humanos. La rápida evolución del mundo del trabajo trae consigo profundos cambios que invitan a adoptar un enfoque capaz de extender la protección a todos los trabajadores, independientemente de su situación laboral, al amparo de derechos que —como la negociación colectiva— emanan de instrumentos internacionales de derechos humanos.
Assembling the layers of the hematopoietic system: A window of opportunity for thymopoiesis in the embryo
Authors: Soares‐da‐Silva Francisca , Elsaid Ramy , Peixoto Marcia Mesquita , Nogueira Gonçalo , Pereira Pablo , Bandeira Antonio , Cumano Ana
Published: March 2023

During embryonic development, several independent generations of hematopoietic cells were identified. They occur in the yolk sac and the intra‐embryonic major arteries, in a narrow window of development. They arise sequentially, starting with primitive erythrocytes in the yolk sac blood islands, progressing to less differentiated erythromyeloid progenitors still in the yolk sac, and culminating with multipotent progenitors, some of which will generate the adult hematopoietic stem cell compartment. All these cells contribute to the formation of a layered hematopoietic system that reflects adaptative strategies to the fetal environment and the embryo's needs. It is mostly composed, at these stages, of erythrocytes and tissue‐resident macrophages both of yolk sac origin, the latter persisting throughout life. We propose that subsets of lymphocytes of embryonic origin derive from a different intra‐embryonic generation of multipotent cells occurring before the emergence of hematopoietic stem cell progenitors. These multipotent cells have a limited lifespan and generate cells that provide basic protection against pathogens before the adaptive immune system is functional, contribute to tissue development and homeostasis, and shape the establishment of a functional thymus. Understanding the properties of these cells will impact the understanding of childhood leukemia and of adult autoimmune pathology and thymic involution.
Parent and staff perceptions of patient and family‐centred care in a Brazilian paediatric's hospital: Quantitative study
Authors: Petersen Cristina Buischi , de Lima Regina Aparecida Garcia , Balieiro Maria Magda Ferreira Gomes , Mandetta Myriam Aparecida
Published: March 2023

Background

Patient and family‐centred care (PFCC) is a healthcare model has been acknowledged as the central pillar in the paediatric health care that recognizes the family's role and experience in the health care delivery.

Aims

This study investigated and compared the perception of PFCC from the perspective of staff and parents of hospitalized children and adolescents.

Methods

A quantitative and comparative cross‐sectional survey was used in a convenience sample of 105 staff and 116 parents, who completed the Brazilian versions of the Perceptions of Family Centred Care—Parent and Staff questionnaires, with additional questions on their characteristics. Descriptive and analytical statistics were used, as well as the Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests and Spearman's correlation coefficient.

Results

Both parents and staff responses were positive and parents had significantly higher scores for 19 of the 20 items (p < 0.001). The item related to parental participation did not show any significant difference between the groups.

Conclusion

The positive perception of PFCC for both groups is consistent with recommendations for expanded care that includes patient and family in healthcare settings. Parents' perception was more positive than staff perceptions of their delivery of family‐centred care in hospital. The lowest score for the parent support subscale in both groups requires investigation.
Combining atomic force microscopy with complementary techniques for multidimensional single‐cell analysis
Authors: Li Mi
Published: March 2023

The advent of atomic force microscopy (AFM) provides an amazing instrument for characterising the structures and properties of living biological systems under aqueous conditions with unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution. In addition to its own unique capabilities for applications in life sciences, AFM is highly compatible and has been widely integrated with various complementary techniques to simultaneously sense the multidimensional (biological, chemical and physical) properties of biological systems, offering novel possibilities for comprehensively revealing the underlying mechanisms guiding life activities particularly in the studies of single cells. Herein, typical combinations of AFM and complementary techniques (including optical microscopy, ultrasound, infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, fluidic force microscopy and traction force microscopy) and their applications in single‐cell analysis are reviewed. The future perspectives are also provided.
Astrocytic purinergic signalling contributes to the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain via modulation of glutamate release
Authors: Liu Suting , Cheng Hao , Cui Liying , Jin Li , Li Yunzi , Zhu Chao , Ji Qing , Tang Jun
Published: March 2023

Although activation of astrocytes is critical in developing neuropathic pain (NP) following nerve injury, the underlying mechanisms of NP and therapeutic management for NP are still vague. Importantly, the decreases in the levels of astrocytic glutamate transporter‐1 (GLT‐1) in the spinal dorsal horn result in enhanced excitatory transmission and cause persistent pain. P2Y1 purinergic receptor (P2Y1R) has been shown to enhance many inflammatory processes. The up‐regulated expression of astrocytic P2Y1R is crucial to participate in pain transduction under conditions of nerve injury and peripheral inflammation considering that P2Y1R is potentially involved in glutamate release and synaptic transmission. This study indicates that the expression of P2Y1R in the spinal cord was increased accompanied by the activation of A1 phenotype astrocytes in the rat model of spinal nerve ligation (SNL). Astrocyte‐specific knockdown of P2Y1R alleviated SNL‐induced nociceptive responses and mitigated A1 reactive astrocytes, which subsequently increased GLT‐1 expression. Conversely, in naïve rats, P2Y1R over‐expression induced a canonical NP‐like phenotype and spontaneous hypernociceptive responses and increased the concentration of glutamate in the spinal dorsal horn. Besides, our in vitro data showed that the proinflammatory cytokine tumour necrosis factor‐alpha contributes to A1/A2 astrocyte reactivity and Ca2+‐dependent release of glutamate. Conclusively, our results provide novel insights that as a significant regulator of astrocytic A1/A2 polarization and neuroinflammation, P2Y1R may represent a potential target for the treatment of SNL‐induced NP.

image
Evaluation of a nurse‐led glaucoma assessment clinic for non‐complex patients
Authors: Young Jeanne , Entwistle Lauren , DeSousa Jean‐Louis , Haigh Meredyth , MacDonald Fiona , Hill Kim
Published: March 2023

Aims and Objectives

The purpose of this study was to assess the safety, feasibility and effectiveness of a nurse‐led glaucoma assessment clinic service.

Background

Glaucoma is a group of serious, irreversible optic neuropathies that progressively damage the optic nerve resulting in blindness. Over 64.3 million people globally are affected by glaucoma with numbers projected to increase to 111.8 million by 2040. Glaucoma is a major public health concern that requires the development of innovative models of care to meet current and future health care demands.

Methods/Design

A mixed method design was used to evaluate the assessment of non‐complex glaucoma patients attending a new nurse‐led clinic. Under an ophthalmologist's supervision, the glaucoma nurse completed 100 hof clinical training and assessment to ensure they were competent in completing and interpreting the required glaucoma assessment protocols.

Interrater reliability between the glaucoma nurse and ophthalmology doctor was undertaken. Glaucoma patient waitlist appointment data were also compared before and after the introduction of the nurse‐led clinics. This study adhered to the SQUIRE checklist for the reporting of excellence with quality improvement projects.

Patient Contribution

Patients contributed to the evaluation of this new nurse‐led service by providing follow‐up feedback on their experience.

Results

Agreement between clinicians for appropriate follow‐up appointment times was high with 93% (n = 315) agreement achieved. Furthermore in 297 (87.5%) cases, both clinicians agreed on the patient being referred to the doctor for follow‐up review. Glaucoma consultations were shown to increase from 3,115 appointments in 2019/20 to 3,504 appointments in 2020/21 after the introduction of the nurse‐led clinic. The nurse‐led clinics accounted for 14.5% (n = 512) of clinic appointments.

Conclusions

The introduction of the nurse‐led glaucoma assessment clinic service allowed patients to be reviewed safely, efficiently and satisfactorily. This new service subsequently allowed for more complex glaucoma patients to be seen by the ophthalmologists.

Relevance to clinical practice

Findings revealed that suitably trained glaucoma nurses are able to clinically assess and safely monitor stable non‐complex glaucoma patients.

Highlights the need for appropriate investment in clinical training and supervision to ensure that glaucoma assessment nurses are adequately prepared to undertake this new practice role.