bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variations across Europe in hospitalization and management of pregnant women with SARS‐CoV‐2 during the initial phase of the pandemic: Multi‐national population‐based cohort study using the International Network of Obstetric Survey Systems (INOSS)
Authors: de Bruin Odette , Engjom Hilde , Vousden Nicola , Ramakrishnan Rema , Aabakke Anna J. M. , Äyräs Outi , Donati Serena , Jónasdóttir Eva , Knight Marian , Overtoom Evelien M. , Salvatore Michele A. , Sturkenboom Miriam C. J. M. , Svanvik Teresia , Varpula Reetta , Vercoutere An , Bloemenkamp Kitty W. M. ,   the INOSS COVID‐19 Working Group
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The majority of data on COVID‐19 in pregnancy are not from sound population‐based active surveillance systems.

Material and methods

We conducted a multi‐national study of population‐based national or regional prospective cohorts using standardized definitions within the International Network of Obstetric Survey systems (INOSS). From a source population of women giving birth between March 1 and August 31, 2020, we included pregnant women admitted to hospital with a positive SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR test ≤7 days prior to or during admission and up to 2 days after birth. The admissions were further categorized as COVID‐19‐related or non‐COVID‐19‐related. The primary outcome of interest was incidence of COVID‐19‐related hospital admission. Secondary outcomes included severe maternal disease (ICU admission and mechanical ventilation) and COVID‐19‐directed medical treatment.

Results

In a source population of 816 628 maternities, a total of 2338 pregnant women were admitted with SARS‐CoV‐2; among them 940 (40%) were COVID‐19‐related admissions. The pooled incidence estimate for COVID‐19‐related admission was 0.59 (95% confidence interval 0.27–1.02) per 1000 maternities, with notable heterogeneity across countries (I2 = 97.3%, P = 0.00). In the COVID‐19 admission group, between 8% and 17% of the women were admitted to intensive care, and 5%–13% needed mechanical ventilation. Thromboprophylaxis was the most frequent treatment given during COVID‐19‐related admission (range 14%–55%). Among 908 infants born to women in the COVID‐19‐related admission group, 5 (0.6%) stillbirths were reported.

Conclusions

During the initial months of the pandemic, we found substantial variations in incidence of COVID‐19‐related admissions in nine European countries. Few pregnant women received COVID‐19‐directed medical treatment. Several barriers to rapid surveillance were identified. Investment in robust surveillance should be prioritized to prepare for future pandemics.
Cancer in pregnancy — The obstetrical management
Authors: Storgaard Lone , Greiber Iben Katinka , Pedersen Berit Woetmann , Nielsen Birgitte Bruun , Karlsen Mona Aarenstrup
Published: August 2023

Cancer in pregnancy, defined as a cancer diagnosed during pregnancy, is a rare but severe condition presenting both clinical and ethical challenges. During the last two decades a paradigm shift has occurred towards recommending similar staging and treatment regimens of pregnant and non‐pregnant cancer patients. This strategy is a result of an increasing number of reassuring reports on chemotherapy treatment in pregnancy after the first trimester. The management of cancer in pregnancy should be managed in a multidisciplinary team where staging, oncological treatment, social and mental care, timing of delivery, and follow‐up of the infant should be planned. Due to the rarity, centralization is recommended to allow experience accumulation. Furthermore, national and international advisory boards are supportive when there is a lack of expertise.
Neuroticism as an antecedent of abusive supervision and laissez‐faire leadership in emergent leaders: The role of facets and agreeableness as a moderator
Authors: Fosse Thomas Hol , Martinussen Monica , Sørlie Henrik O. , Skogstad Anders , Martinsen Øyvind L. , Einarsen Ståle Valvatne
Published: August 2023

Academic interest in the relationship between leaders' personality and subordinates’ perception of destructive leadership behavior is increasing. However, results so far have been weak, contradictory, and inconsistent to theory. Here, we examine if using facets of neuroticism, rather than the broader trait, can be more informative and increases the predictive power. Next, we explore the interplay between personality dimensions by examining if the relationship between the facet angry hostility in neuroticism and destructive leadership behavior is moderated by the trait agreeableness. Four hundred and twenty emergent leaders were examined in a military selection context, combining the leaders' self‐rated neuroticism (T1) with subordinates' subsequent perception of abusive supervision and laissez‐faire leadership in a field exercise two weeks later (T2). The results indicated that using facets instead of the broad factor of neuroticism improved the prediction of examined outcomes. Only some of the facets of neuroticism were related to perceived leader behavior, with specific facets being identified for abusive supervision and laissez‐faire leadership, respectively. Further, the relationship between angry hostility and both leadership styles was moderated by agreeableness.
Increasing healthcare costs in inflammatory bowel disease 2007–2020 in Sweden
Authors: Everhov Åsa H. , Söderling Jonas , Befrits Gustaf , Khalili Hamed , Bröms Gabriella , Neovius Martin ,   SWIBREG study group, Askling Johan , Halfvarson Jonas , Ludvigsson Jonas F. , Olén Ola
Published: August 2023

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease has been linked to increasing healthcare costs, but longitudinal data on other societal costs are scarce.

Aim

To assess costs, including productivity losses, in patients with prevalent Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC) in Sweden between 2007 and 2020.

Methods

We linked data from national registers on all patients with CD or UC and a matched (sex, birthyear, healthcare region and education) reference population. We assessed mean costs/year in Euros, inflation‐adjusted to 2020, for hospitalisations, out‐patient visits, medications, sick leave and disability pension. We defined excess costs as the mean difference between patients and matched comparators.

Results

Between 2007 and 2020, absolute mean annual societal costs in working‐age (18–64 years) individuals decreased by 17% in CD (−24% in the comparators) and by 20% in UC (−27% in comparators), due to decreasing costs from sick leave and disability, a consequence of stricter sick leave regulations. Excess costs in 2007 were dominated by productivity losses. In 2020, excess costs were mostly healthcare costs. Absolute and excess costs increased in paediatric and elderly patients. Overall, costs for TNF inhibitors/targeted therapies increased by 274% in CD and 638% in UC, and the proportion treated increased from 5% to 26% in CD, and from 1% to 10% in UC.

Conclusion

Between 2007 and 2020, excess costs shifted from productivity losses to direct healthcare costs; that is, the patients' compensation for sickness absence decreased, while society increased its spending on medications. Medication costs were driven both by expanding use of TNF inhibitors and by high costs for newer targeted therapies.
Proton pump inhibitor use and the risk of metachronous gastric cancer after H. pylori eradication in patients who underwent endoscopic resection for gastric neoplasms: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Gong Eun Jeong , Jung Hye‐Kyung , Lee Bora , Hong Jitaek , Kim Jong Wook , Shin Cheol Min , Youn Young Hoon , Lee Kwang Jae
Published: August 2023

Background

The association between proton pump inhibitors (PPI) use and gastric cancer remains controversial.

Aims

To investigate the impact of long‐term PPI use on metachronous gastric cancer after Helicobacter pylori eradication in high‐risk patients who underwent endoscopic resection of gastric neoplasms.

Methods

Using the Korean National Health Insurance Services database, we identified 1836 PPI users and 12,218 non‐users among patients who received H. pylori eradication therapy after endoscopic resection for gastric neoplasms between 2009 and 2014. We then compared the incidence of metachronous gastric cancer between the PPI user and non‐user groups. We conducted sensitivity analysis using various time lags and propensity score‐matched analysis to ensure the robustness of the results.

Results

After a median follow‐up of 7.3 years, the incidence of metachronous gastric cancer was significantly higher in the PPI user group than in the non‐user group, with a crude hazard ratio of 6.20 (95% confidence interval, 5.78–6.65). After adjustment, PPI use was associated with the development of metachronous gastric cancer, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 5.51 (95% confidence interval, 5.12–5.92). The PPI user group was categorised into three subgroups according to the cumulative PPI dose; the increased risk of metachronous gastric cancer remained significant regardless of the PPI dose. Moreover, these results remained robust after applying various time lags and propensity score‐matched analyses.

Conclusions

Long‐term PPI use is associated with an increased risk of metachronous gastric cancer in patients who undergo H. pylori eradication therapy after endoscopic resection of gastric neoplasms.
Negation bias in communicating Asian American stereotypes
Authors: Elahi Rayan I. , Raser Roslyn G. , Benson Jessica M.
Published: August 2023

Previous literature demonstrates how the use of negations can be used to communicate stereotypic expectations (e.g., the professor is not smart, instead of stupid). In light of the COVID‐19 pandemic and increased discrimination against Asian Americans, we tested whether the negation bias is used to communicate stereotypes about Asian Americans. Participants were provided with stereotype‐consistent, stereotype‐inconsistent, and neutral scenarios about a subject portrayed as Asian American (Studies 1 and 2), or non‐Asian American (Study 2). They were then asked to choose between two descriptions (Study 1) or to describe their impressions of the subject (Study 2). Across studies, participants were more likely to use negations when describing stereotype‐inconsistent behavior compared to stereotype‐consistent behavior of Asian Americans, supporting our predictions. Results suggest that negations play a role in communicating previously held expectations of Asian Americans and are used in stereotype maintenance.
A test of the Morality‐Agency‐Communion (MAC) model of respect and liking across positive and negative traits
Authors: Prestwich Andrew
Published: August 2023

The Morality‐Agency‐Communion (MAC) model of respect and liking suggests that traits linked with morality are important for respect and liking; traits related to competence or assertiveness are important for respect and traits related to warmth are important for liking. However, tests of this model have tended not to consider traits related to immorality, incompetence, lack of assertiveness or coldness. This study addressed this issue by utilizing a within‐subjects design in which participants were required to rate their respect and liking for individuals with specific trait types across four categories (moral; competence; assertiveness; and warmth) at three levels (positive, negative and neutral). The central tenets of the MAC model were supported for ‘positive’ traits (morality, competence, assertiveness and warmth). However, for ‘negative’ traits (immorality, incompetence and lack of assertiveness), individuals were similarly not liked and not respected. Individuals who were cold were respected more than liked. The findings of this study extend the MAC model by indicating that the amount that individuals are respected versus liked depends not only on trait type but also whether a trait is positive or negative.
Extensive analysis of 59 sarcoma‐related fusion genes identified pazopanib as a potential inhibitor to COL1A1‐PDGFB fusion gene
Authors: Hirose Takeshi , Ikegami Masachika , Kojima Shinya , Yoshida Akihiko , Endo Makoto , Shimada Eijiro , Kanahori Masaya , Oyama Ryunosuke , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Nakashima Yasuharu , Kawai Akira , Mano Hiroyuki , Kohsaka Shinji
Published: August 2023

Sarcomas are malignant mesenchymal tumors that are extremely rare and divergent. Fusion genes are involved in approximately 30% of sarcomas as driver oncogenes; however, their detailed functions are not fully understood. In this study, we determined the functional significance of 59 sarcoma‐related fusion genes. The transforming potential and drug sensitivities of these fusion genes were evaluated using a focus formation assay (FFA) and the mixed‐all‐nominated‐in‐one (MANO) method, respectively. The transcriptome was also examined using RNA sequencing of 3T3 cells transduced with each fusion gene. Approximately half (28/59, 47%) of the fusion genes exhibited transformation in the FFA assay, which was classified into five types based on the resulting phenotype. The sensitivity to 12 drugs including multityrosine kinase inhibitors was assessed using the MANO method and pazopanib was found to be more effective against cells expressing the COL1A1‐PDGFB fusion gene compared with the others. The downstream MAPK/AKT pathway was suppressed at the protein level following pazopanib treatment. The fusion genes were classified into four subgroups by cluster analysis of the gene expression data and gene set enrichment analysis. In summary, the oncogenicity and drug sensitivity of 59 fusion genes were simultaneously evaluated using a high‐throughput strategy. Pazopanib was selected as a candidate drug for sarcomas harboring the COL1A1‐PDGFB fusion gene. This assessment could be useful as a screening platform and provides a database to evaluate customized therapy for fusion gene‐associated sarcomas.
Curcumin inhibits malignant behavior of colorectal cancer cells by regulating M2 polarization of tumor‐associated macrophages and metastasis associated in colon cancer 1 (MACC1) expression
Authors: Ge Shuke , Sun Xu , Sang Limin , Zhang Min , Yan Xubo , Ju Qi , Ma Xuefeng , Xu Meng
Published: August 2023

The present study was to investigate the underlying mechanism of the antitumor effect of curcumin in colorectal cancer cells, focusing on the M2 polarization of tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs). The effect of curcumin on the malignant behavior of colorectal cancer cells was investigated by WST assay for cell growth, and Transwell assay for cell migration/invasion. THP‐1 cells were differentiated into macrophages and coculture with colorectal cancer cells to study the influence of curcumin on M2 polarization, presenting as the levels of ARG1 mRNA, IL‐10, and CD163‐positive cells. GEO database was searched for the shared altered gene of curcumin in colorectal cells and human monocytes. Molecular docking was used to visualize the binding between curcumin and MACC1. Curcumin restricted the proliferation, apoptosis, and migration/invasion of HCT 116 and SW620 cells. Curcumin attenuated levels of the M2 macrophage markers, CD163 + cells, IL‐10 secretion, and ARG1 mRNA. MACC1 was a target of curcumin in colorectal cancer cells, relating to macrophage. Rescue experiments showed that MACC1 overexpression can reverse the antitumor effect of curcumin in colorectal cancer cells and M2 polarization of TAMs. Curcumin's antiproliferative and anti‐migratory effects in colorectal cancer cells may be mediated by MACC1 and inhibition of M2 polarization of TAMs.
Priming group identities affects children's resource distribution among groups
Authors: Nassir Yara , Diesendruck Gil
Published: August 2023

The present research investigated the effect of ethnic–national identity on intergroup attitudes among Israeli children. Between 2019 and 2020, 136 Arab Muslim and 136 Jewish 5‐ and 10‐year‐olds (boys and girls) participated in one of four ethnic–national identity conditions: ingroup, outgroup, common identity, and control. In each condition, participants were described a city whose residents were defined according to the condition. Then, children were asked to “release” positive and negative animals to an ingroup city, an outgroup city, or a zoo. The results showed that highlighting a common identity improved attitudes across all children, but effect of ingroup and outgroup emphases varied between Jewish and Arab children. These results highlight the different dynamics of social identities among majority and minority children.
Is Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch‐up effective for parents with insecure attachment states of mind?
Authors: Labella Madelyn H. , Raby K. Lee , Bourne Stacia V. , Trahan Alec C. , Katz Danielle , Dozier Mary
Published: August 2023

Prior research suggests that attachment‐based interventions, including Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch‐up (ABC), may be less effective at enhancing parenting quality among parents who self‐report having an insecure attachment style. The current study tested whether effects of ABC on parental behavior were moderated by categorical and dimensional measures of attachment obtained via Adult Attachment Interviews with 454 parents who were approximately 34 years old, primarily female, and predominantly White or African American. Parents randomized to ABC exhibited higher sensitivity and positive regard, and lower intrusiveness shortly after the intervention than parents randomized to the control intervention (|β|s = .10–.27). The effect of ABC on intrusiveness persisted 2 years later. Effects at either timepoint were not significantly moderated by parents' attachment representations.
The panopticon looms: A gendered narrative of the interlocking powers of welfare intervention and criminalization
Authors: Clarke Becky , Leah
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a case study narrative of one woman. Drawing on her storied recollections, from infancy into childhood through young motherhood into adulthood, we trace the interlocking relationship between policies and practices intended to offer welfare support facilitating her criminalization. A collaborative approach to producing knowledge, representing 8 years of narrative, dialogue and reflection surfaces a looming panopticon. The gendered power of the state to intervene across the life course is revealed, as is the failed and harmful nature of this panopticon. Three distinct themes emerge from the analysis: the power to define and the fixing nature of gendered policy and practice narratives; the gendered control strategies that reproduce harms in women's lives; and the lifelong nature of the panopticon for some girls and women. Cutting across these experiences are processes of silencing and ultimately resistance, strategies for surviving the enduring forms of institutional surveillance and intervention. The paper closes with clear implications for the hegemonic trio of social science research and social work and criminal justice policy and practice. We must confront and dismantle our complicity in the silent silencing and gendered harms of the panopticon.
TRIM11 promotes cell proliferation of non‐small cell lung cancer through the inhibition of ferroptosis by AMPK
Authors: Liang Zheng , Li Jian , Zhang Guoliang , Chen Menghui
Published: August 2023

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer‐related deaths worldwide, with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) being the most prevalent type. This study investigates the role of TRIM11 gene in NSCLC and its underlying mechanism. NSCLC patients were recruited from our hospital and showed upregulated TRIM11 mRNA and protein expressions. Patients with high TRIM11 expression had lower survival rates. TRIM11 gene was found to promote cell proliferation and reduce ROS‐induced ferroptosis in NSCLC. Additionally, TRIM11 gene induced AMPK expression and its regulation affected TRIM11's effects on cell proliferation and ferroptosis in NSCLC. IP analysis revealed that TRIM11 protein interacted with AMPK protein in NSCLC. These data confirmed that TRIM11 promotes cell proliferation and reduces ROS‐induced ferroptosis in NSCLC through AMPK. Hence, TRIM11 is a potential target for the treatment of NSCLC and other cancers.
Methodological assessment and overall confidence in the results of systematic reviews with meta‐analyses focusing on traumatic dental injuries: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Nagendrababu Venkateshbabu , Faggion Clovis M. , Gopinath Vellore Kannan , Narasimhan Srinivasan , Duncan Henry F. , Levin Liran , Abbott Paul V. , Dummer Paul M. H.
Published: August 2023

Background/Aims

High methodological quality is required to interpret results of systematic reviews (SRs) in a reliable and accurate manner. The primary aim of this study was to appraise the methodologic quality of SRs with meta‐analysis within the field of traumatic dental injuries using the A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) 2 tool and assess overall confidence in their results. A secondary aim was to identify potential predictive factors associated with methodological quality.

Materials and Methods

SRs with meta‐analyses published in English in the field of traumatic dental injuries from inception to March 2023 were identified. The methodological quality of the included reviews was assessed using the AMSTAR 2 checklist. Two independent evaluators scored each AMSTAR 2 item as “yes” if it was adequately addressed, “partial yes” if it was partially addressed, and “no” if it was not addressed. The overall confidence in the results of each review was classified as “High,” “Moderate,” “Low,” or “Critically low.” Using multiple regression, the relationship between five predictor variables (journal impact factor, year of publication, number of authors, journal adherence to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐analyses [PRISMA] guidelines and a priori protocol registration) and the total AMSTAR 2 scores was analyzed. The p‐value was 5%.

Results

Forty‐one SRs were included. The overall confidence in the results of 13 reviews was categorized as “Critically low,” 18 as “Low,” 3 as “Moderate” and 7 as “High.” Among the five predictor variables analyzed statistically, impact factor of the journal and year of publication significantly influenced the total AMSTAR 2 scores. The number of authors, adherence to PRISMA guidelines, and a priori protocol registration had no significant impact on AMSTAR 2 scores.

Conclusion

The overall confidence in the results of SRs with meta‐analysis within the field of traumatic dental injuries was “Low” or “Critically Low” in the vast majority of studies (31 of 41). SRs with meta‐analyses published in journals with higher impact factors and more recent publications had significantly higher methodological quality.
Abnormal voxel‐mirrored homotopic connectivity in first‐episode, drug‐naïve patients with obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Xu Yinhuan , Zhang Yan
Published: August 2023

Prior studies suggest that obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) can cause both anatomical and functional variations in the brain, but to date, altered functional synchronization between two functional hemispheres remains unclear in OCD patients. Voxel‐mirrored homotopic connectivity (VMHC) is defined as the temporal correlation of spontaneous low‐frequency blood oxygenation level‐dependent signal fluctuations across mirror regions of hemisphere revealing the homotopic connectivity between each voxel in one hemisphere and its mirrored counterpart in the contralateral hemisphere. To investigate the alterations of brain regional function and VMHC in patients with OCD, the current study enrolled 103 OCD patients and 118 healthy controls, undergoing resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging. Compared to healthy controls (HCs), patients had decreased VMHC in bilateral cerebellum, lingual and fusiform gyrus; bilateral paracentral lobule, pre and postcentral gyrus; and bilateral superior and middle temporal gyrus, putamen and bilateral precuneus without global signal regression. And we found mostly similar results after regressing global signals; apart from the regions mentioned above, decreased in bilateral cuneus and calcarine was also showed. Furthermore, the mean VMHC values of the left cerebellum were negatively correlated with the obsession scores (ρ = −.204, π = .039). The decreased values in right fusiform and putamen were negatively correlated with duration of disease (ρ = −.205, π = .038; ρ = −.196, π = .047). We confirmed a significant VMHC reduction in OCD patients in broad areas. Our findings suggest that the patients tend to disconnect information exchange across hemispheres.
Spatial pattern consistency and repeatability of proximal soil sensor data for digital soil mapping
Authors: Ahrends Hella Ellen , Simojoki Asko , Lajunen Antti
Published: August 2023

Data from proximal soil sensors can facilitate digital soil mapping at high spatial resolutions. However, their use for predicting static soil properties, such as texture, is affected by spatio‐temporal changes in environmental and measurement conditions. In this research study, seasonal changes in spatial patterns and repeatability of data provided by a platform that simultaneously measures the red (Red) and near infrared (NIR) reflectance, apparent soil electrical conductivity (ECa), temperature, and volumetric moisture content of topsoil (at 3–6 cm depth) were assessed. Test fields are located in Southern Finland with textures dominated by clay and fine sandy till. During single scans, mean relative differences between the data from duplicated measurement points ranged from ~4% to 6% and were the highest for temperature and Red values. The consistency of spatial patterns across seasons (spring and autumn 2021 and 2022) was the highest for ECa values, and the lowest for NIR. ECa and moisture were significant for predicting the clay contents at a cereal grain crop site, whereas temperature was significant at grass ley sites. Errors were generally lower when using spring data compared with autumn data (RMSE ranging from 4.8% to 11.1% for the data from different fields and measurement dates). For the fields, where static soil properties change at small spatial scales, spatially detailed moisture and temperature data support the understanding of seasonal changes in the spatial patterns derived from multi‐sensor data, and the corresponding changes in the performance of calibration models.
Interictal high‐frequency oscillations, spikes, and connectivity profiles: A fingerprint of epileptogenic brain pathologies
Authors: Sklenarova Barbora , Zatloukalova Eva , Cimbalnik Jan , Klimes Petr , Dolezalova Irena , Pail Martin , Kocvarova Jitka , Hendrych Michal , Hermanova Marketa , Gotman Jean , Dubeau François , Hall Jeffery , Pana Raluca , Frauscher Birgit , Brazdil Milan
Published: August 2023

Objective

Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD), hippocampal sclerosis (HS), nonspecific gliosis (NG), and normal tissue (NT) comprise the majority of histopathological results of surgically treated drug‐resistant epilepsy patients. Epileptic spikes, high‐frequency oscillations (HFOs), and connectivity measures are valuable biomarkers of epileptogenicity. The question remains whether they could also be utilized for preresective differentiation of the underlying brain pathology. This study explored spikes and HFOs together with functional connectivity in various epileptogenic pathologies.

Methods

Interictal awake stereoelectroencephalographic recordings of 33 patients with focal drug‐resistant epilepsy with seizure‐free postoperative outcomes were analyzed (15 FCD, 8 HS, 6 NT, and 4 NG). Interictal spikes and HFOs were automatically identified in the channels contained in the overlap of seizure onset zone and resected tissue. Functional connectivity measures (relative entropy, linear correlation, cross‐correlation, and phase consistency) were computed for neighboring electrode pairs.

Results

Statistically significant differences were found between the individual pathologies in HFO rates, spikes, and their characteristics, together with functional connectivity measures, with the highest values in the case of HS and NG/NT. A model to predict brain pathology based on all interictal measures achieved up to 84.0% prediction accuracy.

Significance

The electrophysiological profile of the various epileptogenic lesions in epilepsy surgery patients was analyzed. Based on this profile, a predictive model was developed. This model offers excellent potential to identify the nature of the underlying lesion prior to resection. If validated, this model may be particularly valuable for counseling patients, as depending on the lesion type, different outcomes are achieved after epilepsy surgery.
Confounding effects of snow cover on remotely sensed vegetation indices of evergreen and deciduous trees: An experimental study
Authors: Wang Ran , Springer Kyle R. , Gamon John A.
Published: August 2023

Located at northern latitudes and subject to large seasonal temperature fluctuations, boreal forests are sensitive to the changing climate, with evidence for both increasing and decreasing productivity, depending upon conditions. Optical remote sensing of vegetation indices based on spectral reflectance offers a means of monitoring vegetation photosynthetic activity and provides a powerful tool for observing how boreal forests respond to changing environmental conditions. Reflectance‐based remotely sensed optical signals at northern latitude or high‐altitude regions are readily confounded by snow coverage, hampering applications of satellite‐based vegetation indices in tracking vegetation productivity at large scales. Unraveling the effects of snow can be challenging from satellite data, particularly when validation data are lacking. In this study, we established an experimental system in Alberta, Canada including six boreal tree species, both evergreen and deciduous, to evaluate the confounding effects of snow on three vegetation indices: the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), the photochemical reflectance index (PRI), and the chlorophyll/carotenoid index (CCI), all used in tracking vegetation productivity for boreal forests. Our results revealed substantial impacts of snow on canopy reflectance and vegetation indices, expressed as increased albedo, decreased NDVI values and increased PRI and CCI values. These effects varied among species and functional groups (evergreen and deciduous) and different vegetation indices were affected differently, indicating contradictory, confounding effects of snow on these indices. In addition to snow effects, we evaluated the contribution of deciduous trees to vegetation indices in mixed stands of evergreen and deciduous species, which contribute to the observed relationship between greenness‐based indices and ecosystem productivity of many evergreen‐dominated forests that contain a deciduous component. Our results demonstrate confounding and interacting effects of snow and vegetation type on vegetation indices and illustrate the importance of explicitly considering snow effects in any global‐scale photosynthesis monitoring efforts using remotely sensed vegetation indices.
Do global change variables alter mangrove decomposition? A systematic review
Authors: Simpson Loraé T. , Chapman Samantha K. , Simpson Lance M. , Cherry Julia A.
Published: August 2023

Aim

Global change is expected to modify the magnitude and trajectory of organic matter decomposition in mangrove ecosystems. Yet, the degree and direction of that change is unknown, especially considering the large C storage potential that mangroves provide. We performed a systematic review of primary literature to examine the relationships between genus‐specific litter quality, latitude or other global change proxies and decomposition of mangrove litter fractions.

Location

Global.

Time Period

1976–2021.

Taxon

Mangroves.

Methods

We compiled a dataset of 480 decomposition rates, including species, litter fraction, latitude, and relevant biophysical data. We investigated the influence of genera, tissue type, latitude, and global change proxies on decomposition rates using linear models and qualitative approaches. We also performed calculations to determine the potential importance of the decomposition process on the root litter biomass C pool in the context of blue C significance.

Results

Collectively, latitudinal relationships suggest that factors other than temperature, such as tissue type and genus, may regulate decay rates within mangroves' distributional range. Decay rates of leaf litter, roots, and wood converged on a value of 0.009 ± 0.0005, 0.002 ± 0.0001, and 0.001 ± 0.0003, respectively, across continents and geomorphological settings. Our calculations suggest that small changes in decomposition rate will not elicit large changes in blue C storage potential.

Conclusions

The main drivers behind variability in mangrove biomass decay rates detected across the distributional range remain uncertain. However, the small latitudinal range that mangroves inhabit and the submerged environment within which litter decomposes suggest that decay depends on species‐specific responses or biotic interactions among species to global change drivers. Few studies have examined global change impacts directly, and variability in decay and lack of representation of some mangrove groups in the literature suggest that implications for blue C are important to consider.
Developing an artificial intelligence–based diagnostic model of headaches from a dataset of clinic patients' records
Authors: Katsuki Masahito , Matsumori Yasuhiko , Kawamura Shin , Kashiwagi Kenta , Koh Akihito , Tachikawa Senju , Yamagishi Fuminori
Published: August 2023

Objective

We developed an artificial intelligence (AI)‐based headache diagnosis model using a large questionnaire database from a headache‐specializing clinic.

Background

Misdiagnosis of headache disorders is a serious issue and AI‐based headache diagnosis models are scarce.

Methods

We developed an AI‐based headache diagnosis model and conducted internal validation based on a retrospective investigation of 6058 patients (4240 training dataset for model development and 1818 test dataset for internal validation) diagnosed by a headache specialist. The ground truth was the diagnosis by the headache specialist. The diagnostic performance of the AI model was evaluated.

Results

The dataset included 4829/6058 (79.7%) patients with migraine, 834/6058 (13.8%) with tension‐type headache, 78/6058 (1.3%) with trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias, 38/6058 (0.6%) with other primary headache disorders, and 279/6058 (4.6%) with other headaches. The mean (standard deviation) age was 34.7 (14.5) years, and 3986/6058 (65.8%) were female. The model's micro‐average accuracy, sensitivity (recall), specificity, precision, and F‐values for the test dataset were 93.7%, 84.2%, 84.2%, 96.1%, and 84.2%, respectively. The diagnostic performance for migraine was high, with a sensitivity of 88.8% and c‐statistics of 0.89 (95% confidence interval 0.87–0.91).

Conclusions

Our AI model demonstrated high diagnostic performance for migraine. If secondary headaches can be ruled out, the model can be a powerful tool for diagnosing migraine; however, further data collection and external validation are required to strengthen the performance, ensure the generalizability in other outpatients, and demonstrate its utility in real‐world settings.
Accounting for dispersal and intraspecific variation in forecasts of species distribution under climate change
Authors: Zhang Sheng‐Nan , Kubota Kôhei
Published: August 2023

Dispersal and local adaptation play an important role in driving species distributions under climate change. Many studies aim to estimate relationships between species occurrences and environmental variables to predict range shift and biodiversity loss, ignoring dispersal and intraspecific variation contributing to complex spatial and temporal dynamics.

We accounted for dispersal and intraspecific variation in forecasts of species distribution under climate change with species distribution models (SDMs) using two cold‐adapted, low‐dispersal Platycerus species (Coleoptera: Lucanidae), each with distinct subspecies distributions, as focus species. The results showed that the subspecies‐level model performed significantly better than the species‐level model when considering dispersal constraints in SDMs. Whether or not dispersal or intraspecific variation is accounted for, the predicted species range of Platycerus albisomni is expected to decrease in the future. For Platycerus takakuwai, accounting for dispersal constraints in SDMs indicated that its potential distribution area would increase at the subspecies level under climate change, but decrease at the species level.

These divergent results show that SDMs at the subspecies level can detect impacts of climate change that may be overlooked in species‐level models. Therefore, models that consider intraspecific variation and dispersal constraints may provide a more realistic perspective on the impacts of climate change.

Because accurate mapping of potential habitats is needed for conservation purposes, demographic studies should include dispersal explicitly and explore how and when intraspecific variation in dispersal affects local population dynamics. This approach could help evaluate species' habitat shifts, thus enabling suitable conservation strategies.
A combination of three antioxidants decreases the impact of rural particulate pollution in Normal human keratinocytes
Authors: Ortiz Angelica , Sun Hong , Kluz Thomas , Matsui Mary S. , Carle Tiffany , Gan David , Gordon Terry , Gildea Lucy , Costa Max
Published: August 2023

Objective

It is well established that exposure of human skin to airborne pollution, particularly in the form of particulate matter sized 2.5 μm (PM2.5), is associated with oxidative stress, DNA damage and inflammation, leading to premature signs of skin aging. Because much of the damage results from oxidative stress, we examined the effects of a topical composition containing three antioxidants in an in vitro model system to assess the potential for amelioration of premature aging. The use of multiple antioxidants was of interest based on the typical composition of therapeutic skincare products. It is important to determine the efficacy of multiple antioxidants together and develop a short‐term assay for larger scale efficacy testing.

Methods

Normal human epidermal keratinocytes were exposed to a rural‐derived source of PM2.5 in the presence and absence of an antioxidant mixture of resveratrol, niacinamide and GHK peptide. Endpoints related to inflammation, premature aging and carcinogenicity were monitored after 5 h of exposure and included IL‐6, CXCL10, MMP‐1 and NRF2. Differentially expressed genes were monitored by RNA‐seq.

Results

Pre‐treatment of keratinocytes with the antioxidant preparation in the absence of PM2.5 reduced baseline levels of MMP‐1, IL‐6 and CYP1A1 and reduced PM2.5‐induced increases in all four endpoints, MMP‐1, IL‐6, CXCL10 and CYP1A1. Antioxidants significantly increased NRF2 protein in the presence of PM2.5, indicating a protective response. RNA‐seq interrogation of antioxidant‐treated cells further showed increased expression of NRF2 inducible genes. The expression of CYP1A1 and genes related to aryl hydrocarbon activation were induced by PM2.5 and suppressed by antioxidants.

Conclusions

Specific signalling pathways known to be correlated with skin inflammation and aging were examined based on their suitability for use in efficacy testing for the prevention of skin damage due to ambient hydrocarbon pollution. Endpoints examined after only 5 h of exposure provide a useful method amenable to high through‐put screening. The results obtained reinforce the concept that a multiple antioxidant preparation, topically applied, may reduce pro‐inflammatory signalling and cellular damage and thereby reduce premature skin aging due to exposure to rural‐derived airborne pollution.
Feeding and eating disorders among hospitalized children and adolescents in Thailand: A 5‐year secondary national database analysis
Authors: Manaboriboon Boonying , In‐iw Supinya , Bongsebandhu‐phubhakdi Chansuda , Arunakul Jiraporn , Kamol Napapailin , Areekul Wirote , Thunyapipat Chaloempong , Leelathipkul Lalit , Areemit Rosawan
Published: August 2023

Aims

This study aimed to present national data for children and adolescents requiring hospitalization in Thailand.

Background

Feeding and eating disorders can cause life‐threatening and negative health impacts. In Asia, the prevalence is rising. Data from children and adolescents in Thailand are limited.

Design

This study is a retrospective study of the national database.

Methods

Data from the National Health Security Office database on Universal Health Insurance Coverage (2015–2019) of 0–17‐year‐olds were analysed by diagnosis (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, vomiting associated with psychological disturbances, other eating disorders and unspecified eating disorders). Descriptive statistics, chi‐square test and multinomial logistic regression were used.

Results

There were 163 patients, averaging 9.4 ± 5.2 years old, requiring 205 admissions. Most diagnoses showed stable trends, except for a slight decrease in anorexia and unspecified eating disorders. Most admissions were due to unspecified eating disorders and psychogenic vomiting, followed by anorexia nervosa. The overall prevalence was 3.86 per 100 000 admissions. Anorexia had the highest hospital costs and re‐admission rates. Anorexia nervosa was most prevalent in early adolescence and females, while bulimia nervosa was most prominent in middle adolescence and had a male predominance.

Conclusion

Early recognition in clinical practice could increase early detection and improve outcomes.
Status quo among fragmentation and consolidation: Public dispute resolution agencies in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Pohler Dionne , Weinberg Bradley R.
Published: August 2023

We explore changes in the Ontario Labour Relations Board and the Ministry of Labour's Dispute Resolution Services over time. The core purpose of these public dispute resolution agencies in Canada has not changed since their creation, even amidst legislative fragmentation and consolidation, different governing parties, periods of public sector austerity, changing patterns of unionization and evolving court decisions.
Cost and health‐related quality of life for children hospitalized with respiratory syncytial virus in Central China
Authors: Ren Lingshuang , Cui Lidan , Wang Qianli , Gao Liujiong , Xu Meng , Wang Meng , Wu Qianhui , Guo Jinxin , Lin Li , Liang Yuxia , Liu Nuolan , Cheng Yibing , Yang Juan , Yu Hongjie
Published: August 2023

Background

The economic burden of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection and its impact on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) are not well‐understood in China. This study assessed total cost and HRQoL for children hospitalized with RSV in Central China.

Methods

Based on a prospective case series study in Henan Province in 2020–2021, inpatients aged 0–59 months with RSV‐related acute respiratory infections (ARIs) were included into analysis. Total cost included direct medical cost (sum of medical cost before and during hospitalization), direct non‐medical cost, and indirect cost. Direct medical cost during hospitalization data were extracted from the hospital information system. Other costs and HRQoL status were obtained from a telephone survey conducted in the caregivers of the enrolled patients.

Results

Among 261 RSV‐infected inpatients, caregivers of 170 non‐severe cases (65.1%, 170/261) were successfully interviewed. Direct medical cost per episode was 1055.3 US dollars (US$) (95% CI: 998.2–1112.5 US$). Direct non‐medical cost and indirect cost per episode were 83.6 US$ (95% CI: 77.5–89.7 US$) and 162.4 US$ (95% CI: 127.9–197.0 US$), respectively. Quality adjusted life years (QALY) loss for non‐severe RSV hospitalization was 8.9 × 10−3 (95% CI: 7.9 × 10−3–9.9 × 10−3). The majority of inpatients were <1 year of age comprising significantly higher cost and more QALY loss than older children.

Conclusions

RSV‐associated hospitalization poses high economic and health burden in Central China particularly for children <1 year old. Our findings are crucial for determining the priority of interventions and allocation of health resources.
Next‐generation bromodomain inhibitors of the SWI/SNF complex enhance DNA damage and cell death in glioblastoma
Authors: Yang Chuanhe , He Yali , Wang Yinan , McKinnon Peter J. , Shahani Vijay , Miller Duane D. , Pfeffer Lawrence M.
Published: August 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive brain cancer with a poor prognosis. While surgical resection is the primary treatment, adjuvant temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy and radiotherapy only provide slight improvement in disease course and outcome. Unfortunately, most treated patients experience recurrence of highly aggressive, therapy‐resistant tumours and eventually succumb to the disease. To increase chemosensitivity and overcome therapy resistance, we have modified the chemical structure of the PFI‐3 bromodomain inhibitor of the BRG1 and BRM catalytic subunits of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodelling complex. Our modifications resulted in compounds that sensitized GBM to the DNA alkylating agent TMZ and the radiomimetic bleomycin. We screened these chemical analogues using a cell death ELISA with GBM cell lines and a cellular thermal shift assay using epitope tagged BRG1 or BRM bromodomains expressed in GBM cells. An active analogue, IV‐129, was then identified and further modified, resulting in new generation of bromodomain inhibitors with distinct properties. IV‐255 and IV‐275 had higher bioactivity than IV‐129, with IV‐255 selectively binding to the bromodomain of BRG1 and not BRM, while IV‐275 bound well to both BRG1 and BRM bromodomains. In contrast, IV‐191 did not bind to either bromodomain or alter GBM chemosensitivity. Importantly, both IV‐255 and IV‐275 markedly increased the extent of DNA damage induced by TMZ and bleomycin as determined by nuclear γH2AX staining. Our results demonstrate that these next‐generation inhibitors selectively bind to the bromodomains of catalytic subunits of the SWI/SNF complex and sensitize GBM to the anticancer effects of TMZ and bleomycin. This approach holds promise for improving the treatment of GBM.