bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On tasks and soft skills in operations and supply chain management: analysis and evidence from the O*NET database
Authors: Fantozzi Italo Cesidio , Di Luozzo Sebastiano , Schiraldi Massimiliano Maria
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to identify the soft skills and abilities that are crucial to success in the fields of operations management (OM) and supply chain management (SCM), using the O*NET database and the classification of a set of professional figures integrating values for task skills and abilities needed to operate successfully in these professions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used the O*NET database to identify the soft skills and abilities required for success in OM and SCM industries. Correlation analysis was conducted to determine the tasks required for the job roles and their characteristics in terms of abilities and soft skills. ANOVA analysis was used to validate the findings. The study aims to help companies define specific assessments and tests for OM and SCM roles to measure individual attitudes and correlate them with the job position.

Findings

As a result of the work, a set of soft skills and abilities was defined that allow, through correlation analysis, to explain a large number of activities required to work in the operations and SCM (OSCM) environment.

Research limitations/implications

The work is inherently affected by the database used for the professional figures mapped and the scores that are attributed within O*NET to the analyzed elements.

Practical implications

The information resulting from this study can help companies develop specific assessments and tests for the roles of OM and SCM to measure individual attitudes and correlate them with the requirements of the job position. The study aims to address the need to identify soft skills in the human sphere and determine which of them have the most significant impact on the OM and SCM professions.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in its approach to identify the set of soft skills and abilities that determine success in the OM and SCM industries. The study used the O*NET database to correlate the tasks required for specific job roles with their corresponding soft skills and abilities. Furthermore, the study used ANOVA analysis to validate the findings in other sectors mapped by the same database. The identified soft skills and abilities can help companies develop specific assessments and tests for OM and SCM roles to measure individual attitudes and correlate them with the requirements of the job position. In addressing the necessity for enhanced clarity in the domain of human factor, this study contributes to identifying key success factors. Subsequent research can further investigate their practical application within companies to formulate targeted growth strategies and make appropriate resource selections for vacant positions.
Oaths of Fidelity: Loyalty and Officeholding in Late Medieval Durham
Authors: Brown A.T.
Published: February 2024

Oaths of fidelity, homage and fealty were ubiquitous in late medieval England. Variously given by tenants, officeholders and retainers, such oaths represented a promise of loyalty and goodwill towards a lord. Individuals might make many such professions, perhaps as a tenant of one lord, an officer of another or a hired retainer of yet a third. Such multiple loyalties can be difficult to recover, especially as many oaths would have been given verbally and left little documentary evidence. The nature of such social relations has been seen as vital to our understanding of the emergence of ‘bastard feudalism’ and attempts to understand the texture of late medieval politics. This article explores these issues through the unusual situation that arose in medieval Durham whereby the incoming officials of the bishops of Durham swore oaths of fidelity to the monks of Durham priory, an entirely separate landowner. Who were these individuals, what were they promising and why were the incoming officers of one lord swearing fidelity to another? This local arrangement likely arose to avoid conflict between the two major landowners in the region and demonstrates the ways that oaths and the resultant ties they created could aid in the social stability of late medieval England.
Comparison of quality properties of powder milk‐based camel cheese depending on calf rennet concentration and microbial transglutaminase
Authors: Darnay Lívia , Barkó Annamária , Hidas Karina , Pataki Fanni Anna , Miklós Gabriella , Surányi József , Laczay Péter
Published: February 2024

Research was conducted to investigate if ripened cheese can be manufactured from easily accessible powder camel milk with calf rennet. A further aim was to examine the texture‐modifying effect of commercially available microbial transglutaminase preparations (Activa YG, Probind CH) at different rennet concentrations. Ripened cheese samples were analysed for physical–chemical characteristics including colour, texture and essential amino acids. Our study revealed that it is possible to make semi‐hard camel cheese from reconstituted camel milk. Application of high rennet dosage (14.7 International Milk Clotting Unit/L) with Activa YG (0.6 Unit/g protein) was favourable for both cheese yield, hardness and essential amino acid content.
Comparison of quality properties of pasteurized milk‐based camel cheese depending on calf rennet concentration and microbial transglutaminase
Authors: Darnay Lívia , Barkó Annamária , Hidas Karina , Pataki Fanni Anna , Miklós Gabriella , Surányi József , Laczay Péter
Published: February 2024

Research was conducted to investigate if ripened cheese can be manufactured from pasteurized camel milk with calf rennet. A further aim was to examine the texture modifying effect of microbial transglutaminase at different rennet concentrations. Ripened cheese samples were analysed for physical–chemical characteristics including colour, texture and essential amino acids. Results revealed that it is possible to make semi‐hard camel cheese with the use of calf rennet. However, low‐rennet dosage (2.94 IMCU/L) resulted in good textural properties (hardness, springiness) when commercial microbial transglutaminase was used.
Restricting bioenergetic efficiency enhances longevity and mitochondrial redox capacity in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Taylor Analisa L. , Dubuisson Olga , Pandey Pritika , Zunica Elizabeth R. M. , Vandanmagsar Bolormaa , Dantas Wagner S. , Johnson Alyssa , Axelrod Christopher L. , Kirwan John P.
Published: February 2024

Mitochondria are essential for survival and as such, impairments in organelle homeostasis significantly accelerate age‐related morbidity and mortality. Here, we determined the contribution of bioenergetic efficiency to life span and health span in Drosophila melanogaster utilizing the mitochondrial uncoupler BAM15. Life span was determined in flies fed a normal diet (ND) or high fat diet (HFD) supplemented with vehicle or BAM15. Locomotor function was determined by negative geotaxis assay in middle‐aged flies fed vehicle or BAM15 under ND or HFD conditions. Redox capacity (high‐resolution respirometry/fluorometry), citrate synthase (enzyme activity), mtDNA content (qPCR), gene expression (qPCR), and protein expression (western blot) were assessed in flight muscle homogenates of middle‐aged flies fed vehicle or BAM15 ND. The molar ratio of H2O2 and O2 (H2O2:O2) in a defined respiratory state was calculated as a measure of redox balance. BAM15 extended life span by 9% on ND and 25% on HFD and improved locomotor activity by 125% on ND and 53% on HFD. Additionally, BAM15 enhanced oxidative phosphorylation capacity supported by pyruvate + malate, proline, and glycerol 3‐phosphate. Concurrently, BAM15 enhanced the mitochondrial H2O2 production rate, reverse electron flow from mitochondrial glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (mGPDH) to Complex I, mGPDH, and Complex I without altering the H2O2:O2 ratio. BAM15 upregulated transcriptional signatures associated with mitochondrial function and fitness as well as antioxidant defense. BAM15‐mediated restriction of bioenergetic efficiency prolongs life span and health span in Drosophila fed a ND or HFD. Improvements in life span and health span in ND were supported by synergistic enhancement of muscular redox capacity.
Prevalence of functional limitations in older remote‐living Aboriginal Australians
Authors: Smith Kate , Hyde Zoë , Flicker Leon , Atkinson David , Malay Roslyn , LoGiudice Dina
Published: February 2024

Introduction

To better tailor prevention and care strategies, there is a need to identify modifiable factors associated with functional impairment in older Aboriginal people, and related service needs.

Objective

To investigate the prevalence and associated factors for functional impairment in older Aboriginal people, and related service needs.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey of 289 Aboriginal people aged ≥45 years living in the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia. Factors associated with functional impairment were explored with logistic regression.

Findings

41.2% (95% CI 35.6%–47.0%) of participants required assistance with at least one I/ADL, and 26.0% (95% CI 21.2%–31.3%) required assistance with two or more I/ADLs. A core activity limitation (required assistance with showering, dressing or cooking) was reported by 15.9% (95% CI 12.1%–20.6%). In multivariable logistic regression analyses, older age, diabetes, difficulty walking, head injury, higher depression score and worse cognition were associated with needing help with two or more I/ADLs, while older age, history of stroke, higher depression score and worse cognition were associated with the presence of a core activity limitation. The proportion of participants receiving support with I/ADLs ranged from 71.2% to 97.6%. Support was generally provided by family and friends rather than service providers.

Discussion

The key modifiable factors associated with functional impairment in older Aboriginal people living in remote regions are diabetes, depression and cognitive impairment. Services required are transport and socio‐cultural activities, and ensuring support for family providing the majority of care.

Conclusions

This study highlights the need for holistic prevention strategies and care for older Aboriginal people with functional limitations and their families.
DeepAlienorNet: A deep learning model to extract clinical features from colour fundus photography in age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Mathieu Alexis , Ajana Soufiane , Korobelnik Jean‐François , Le Goff Mélanie , Gontier Brigitte , Rougier Marie‐Bénédicte , Delcourt Cécile , Delyfer Marie‐Noëlle
Published: February 2024

Objective

This study aimed to develop a deep learning (DL) model, named ‘DeepAlienorNet’, to automatically extract clinical signs of age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) from colour fundus photography (CFP).

Methods and Analysis

The ALIENOR Study is a cohort of French individuals 77 years of age or older. A multi‐label DL model was developed to grade the presence of 7 clinical signs: large soft drusen (>125 μm), intermediate soft (63–125 μm), large area of soft drusen (total area >500 μm), presence of central soft drusen (large or intermediate), hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and advanced AMD (defined as neovascular or atrophic AMD). Prediction performances were evaluated using cross‐validation and the expert human interpretation of the clinical signs as the ground truth.

Results

A total of 1178 images were included in the study. Averaging the 7 clinical signs' detection performances, DeepAlienorNet achieved an overall sensitivity, specificity, and AUROC of 0.77, 0.83, and 0.87, respectively. The model demonstrated particularly strong performance in predicting advanced AMD and large areas of soft drusen. It can also generate heatmaps, highlighting the relevant image areas for interpretation.

Conclusion

DeepAlienorNet demonstrates promising performance in automatically identifying clinical signs of AMD from CFP, offering several notable advantages. Its high interpretability reduces the black box effect, addressing ethical concerns. Additionally, the model can be easily integrated to automate well‐established and validated AMD progression scores, and the user‐friendly interface further enhances its usability. The main value of DeepAlienorNet lies in its ability to assist in precise severity scoring for further adapted AMD management, all while preserving interpretability.
Self‐reported mental health difficulties were of limited use when screening for psychiatric diagnoses in adults born small for gestational age at term
Authors: Mehl Cathrin Vano , Lærum Astrid Merete Winsnes , Reitan Solveig Klæbo , Indredavik Marit S. , Evensen Kari Anne I.
Published: February 2024

Aim

Being born small for gestational age (SGA) at term increases the risk of adverse health outcomes. We examined whether self‐reported mental health differed between adults born SGA and non‐SGA at term and could be used to screen for psychiatric diagnoses.

Methods

We used the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire to gather data from 68 participants born SGA and 88 non‐SGA controls at a mean age of 26.5 years. Group differences were analysed by linear regression. We calculated the area under the curve and the sensitivity, specificity and predictive values for psychiatric diagnoses.

Results

The mean total difficulties score was 1.9 (95% confidence interval 0.4–3.5) points higher for participants born SGA. They also reported more internalising and emotional problems (p < 0.05). The areas under the curve were 0.82 and 0.68 in the SGA and control groups, respectively. Among participants born SGA, the 90th percentile cut‐off had a sensitivity of 0.38, a specificity of 0.93 and positive and negative predictive values of 0.75 and 0.71. The 80th percentile cut‐off had higher sensitivity and lower specificity.

Conclusion

Adults born SGA reported more mental health difficulties than non‐SGA controls. The low sensitivity using the 90th percentile cut‐off suggests that a lower cut‐off should be considered.
Pluralistic ecological governance: A comparative analysis of conservation practices among Tibetan communities of China
Authors: Bum Tsering
Published: February 2024

Extant scholarly discourse on ecological governance within China predominantly underscores the salient role of the central state. This is unsurprising given the statist policy trajectory transitioned from an emphasis on swift economic growth to focusing on emerging ecological challenges in the last decade. However, this article deviates from this prevailing emphasis, pivoting instead to the tangible practices and realities of ecological governance at the grassroots level. Through an ethnographic investigation, this article delves into the nuances of ecological governance within the Tibetan regions of Qinghai Province, China, emphasising the interplay between local communities, environmental non‐governmental organisations and the local state. The article introduces the concept of ‘pluralistic ecological governance’, advocating for the integration of diverse governance structures, institutional frameworks and stakeholder involvements. This approach encompasses a thorough consideration of diverse knowledge systems, motivations of community participation and local‐state relations, vital for addressing the complex nature of ecological issues. The study contends that ‘pluralistic ecological governance’ not only encompasses different stakeholders but also critically examines various forms of knowledge and motivations, along with the diverse interests these stakeholders contribute to both the discourse and practice of ecological conservation on the ground.
What is the best treatment for hypotension in healthy dogs during anaesthesia maintained with isoflurane?
Authors: Quinn CT
Published: February 2024

Hypotension is a common and potentially life‐threatening complication of general anaesthesia in dogs. Due to the combination of cardiovascular side effects of many anaesthetic, sedative and analgesic drugs used peri‐operatively hypotension is frequently reported even in healthy dogs undergoing elective procedures. Several treatment options for hypotension have been advocated. Potential treatments include rapid administration of either crystalloid or colloid fluids; pharmacological treatments to increase cardiac output and/or systemic vascular resistance; or reduction in the delivery of volatile anaesthetic agents. This critical appraisal considers the current evidence for which treatment is the best option for treating hypotension in healthy euvolemic dogs undergoing general anaesthesia maintained with isoflurane. Fourteen relevant studies were appraised, including 12 laboratory studies and two small clinical trials. One study demonstrated that reduction in the delivery of isoflurane may correct hypotension, but this treatment may not always be feasible. In general, rapid administration of fluids did not increase blood pressure and failed to correct hypotension. Synthetic colloids demonstrated some efficacy, but results were inconsistent between studies and large volumes may be required. Infusion of dopamine appears to be the most reliable pharmacological option consistently increasing blood pressure, cardiac output and correcting hypotension. [Corrections added on 13 July 2024, after first online publication: A typographical error regarding volatile anaesthetic agents has been amended.]
Cryptosporidium‐associated enteritis in captive koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)
Authors: Hough I , O'Handley R , Speight N
Published: February 2024

Cryptosporidium spp. sporadically infect a range of Australian native mammals including koalas, red kangaroos, eastern grey kangaroos, bilbies and brush tailed possums and can range from asymptomatic to fatal infections. Traditionally considered a disease of the young or immuno‐compromised, and resulting in profuse diarrhoea in other species, here we report an atypical clinical syndrome associated with Cryptosporidium in a captive population of koalas. All affected animals were in‐contact adults, and demonstrated anorexia, dehydration and abdominal pain in the absence of diarrhoea. Following euthanasia on welfare grounds, Cryptosporidium infection was confirmed postmortem in three of four symptomatic animals via faecal floatation and/or intestinal histopathology, with enteritis also diagnosed in the fourth koala. Further screening of the captive colony found the outbreak had been contained. Based on sequencing the cause of the infection was C. fayeri, but the source was undetermined. In conclusion, Cryptosporidium should be considered as a possible cause of generalised illness in koalas.
Hospital admissions to Phillip Island Wildlife Clinic, Victoria, Australia, over a 10‐year period, 2012–2021
Authors: Dutton‐Regester KJ
Published: February 2024

Wildlife hospitals play a critical role in safeguarding diverse animal species, but their admissions data are also valuable for investigating threats and challenges impacting local wildlife. This study examines 10 years of admissions data from the Phillip Island Wildlife Clinic in Victoria, Australia, to identify species, primary causes, outcomes, and temporal trends of hospital admissions. Avian species constitute the majority of admissions (64.5%), with sea and water birds being the most frequently admitted group. Motor vehicle accidents (MVAs), injuries of unknown cause, and orphaning are the dominant causes of admission for birds and mammals. Car strikes are the leading cause of admission for land birds, land mammals, macropods, and turtles. Orphaning exhibits a seasonal pattern, with a higher number of cases in spring. Overall, 70.3% of admissions resulted in mortality, with causes related to trauma showing significantly higher mortality risks than others. The findings emphasize the impact of tourism on wildlife populations and the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies on Phillip Island.
Distance examination of livestock with drones ‐ an effective method for assessing health and welfare
Authors: Rayner KL , Wilson ME
Published: February 2024

Distance examination is an important part of veterinary investigation into ruminant herd health and welfare. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) explored the use of drones to conduct assessments of the health and welfare status of sheep and cattle. Three methods of distance examination were compared comprising observations; from a vehicle, a “micro” category drone and a “very small” category drone. The disturbance and behavioural reactions caused by the methods were compared. Assessments of adverse health and welfare conditions by each method were compared to observations made at yarding. The preferred method was the use of the very small drone which had the best sensitivity for detection of conditions potentially associated with adverse health or welfare and the best optics at a distance that did not disturb the animals. The optics of the very small drone enabled distance examination without disturbance in both cattle and sheep. Cattle were more sensitive to the presence of the drones than sheep. The micro drone was unable to approach cattle close enough to allow undisturbed distance examination. All methods had similar specificity, however, sensitivity varied markedly. The very small drone had the best sensitivity 86% which was statistically greater than the micro drone (44%, P = 0.05) and better than the vehicle observations, which had sensitivity of 77% (not statistically significant). The selection of an appropriate drone model is essential for accurate distance examination. Distance examination of livestock with drones of suitable optic quality and resolution represents an effective method for assessing animal health and welfare.
Retrograde intrarenal surgery for asymptomatic incidental renal stones: a retrospective, real‐world data analysis
Authors: Ong William Lay Keat , Somani Bhaskar Kumar , Fong Khi Yung , Teoh Jeremy Yuen‐Chun , Sarica Kemal , Chai Chu Ann , Ragoori Deepak , Tailly Thomas , Hamri Saeed Bin , Heng Chin Tiong , Biligere Sarvajit , Emiliani Esteban , Gadzhiev Nariman , Tanidir Yiloren , Chew Ben Hall , Castellani Daniele , Traxer Oliver , Gauhar Vineet ,   from The FLEXible Ureteroscopy Outcomes Registry (FLEXOR)
Published: February 2024

Objective

To determine surgical outcomes and stone‐free rates (SFRs) when offering upfront retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) to patients with asymptomatic incidental renal stones (AIRS), as active surveillance, shockwave lithotripsy or upfront intervention in patients with AIRS is still a debate among urologists.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective FLEXible Ureteroscopy Outcomes Registry (FLEXOR), supported by the Team of Worldwide Endourological Researchers (TOWER), examines adult patients who underwent RIRS. We analysed a subset of asymptomatic patients with renal stones on imaging who were treated with RIRS. Data includes patient characteristics, stone specifications, anaesthesia type, perioperative details, complications, and SFR. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess factors associated with the SFR.

Results

Among 679 patients with AIRS, 640 met the inclusion criteria. The median age was 55 years, with 33.4% being female. In all, 22.1% had positive urine cultures. The median stone diameter was 12 mm, commonly in lower and interpolar locations. RIRS was preferentially performed under general anaesthesia using a reusable scope in 443 cases. Prophylactic antibiotics were administered to 314 patients. The median operation time was 58 min and the median laser time was 24 min. The SFR was 68.8%. The use of holmium laser (odds ratio [OR] 0.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.06–0.63; P < 0.01) and multiple stones (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.19–0.76; P < 0.01) were factors associated with lower odds of being stone free. Overall complications were minimal, with sepsis in 1.6% of patients. Re‐interventions were performed in 76 cases (11.8%), with RIRS being the most common in 67 cases (10.6%).

Conclusion

Our multicentre real‐world study is the first of its kind that highlights the pros and cons of offering RIRS to patients with AIRS and demonstrates a favourable SFR with acceptable complications. Pre‐emptively discussing potential re‐intervention helps patients make informed decisions, particularly in cases involving large and multiple stones.
Instream barriers contribute to population isolation of a small‐bodied, benthic, headwater‐specialist fish (Percidae)
Authors: Watson River A. , Culley Alexis V. , Haase Catherine G. , Thomas Matthew R. , Brandt Stephanie L. , Floyd Michael A. , Blanton Rebecca E.
Published: February 2024

Genetic differentiation in aquatic systems is often driven by geographic distance (isolation by distance) due to the linear and hierarchical distribution of populations, but habitat fragmentation often exacerbates this effect by decreasing population connectivity, leading to isolation by resistance. Stronghold populations of the Kentucky Arrow Darter (Etheostoma spilotum) in the South Fork Kentucky River system within the Daniel Boone National Forest of eastern Kentucky, USA have a high population structure not explained by distance alone. Higher than expected levels of genetic differentiation among proximate populations were hypothesized to be driven by land‐use change, but this was not previously tested. Here we use a riverscape genetics approach to test for the effects of natural landscape features including slope, elevation and stream size, and anthropogenically altered habitat features, including specific conductance (conductivity), culverts and forest cover, on population connectivity and genetic diversity of E. spilotum. We found isolation of populations among all tributary systems and a strong, positive relationship between genetic and geographic distances as expected. However, high conductivity levels due to surface coal mining best explain the population structure observed. We also found signatures of low genetic diversity overall and indicators that culverts may limit upstream movements of E. spilotum. This study provides a novel fine‐scale view of the effects of instream and landscape features on connectivity among, and genetic diversity within populations of an imperilled, small‐bodied, benthic fish.
Outcomes with ibrutinib in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: Results from the German multicentre REALITY study
Authors: Gerhardt Anke , Dörfel Steffen , Schulz Holger , Schlag Rudolf , Vornholz Lukas , Nejad‐Asgari Sonja , Welslau Manfred
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To assess treatment adherence, effectiveness and safety outcomes of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) receiving ibrutinib in a real‐world setting.

Methods

Patients enrolled in REALITY were ≥18 years with a confirmed diagnosis of CLL and were receiving ibrutinib as a first‐line (1L), 2L or ≥3L therapy. Treatment retention, adherence, progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and time to next therapy were assessed at 1 and 2 years overall, by typology and by cytogenetic subgroups. PFS and OS were analysed using Kaplan–Meier methods.

Results

Exactly 302 patients were enrolled across 57 sites in Germany, from January 2017 to July 2021. One‐year retention rates were 69.9% overall (primary endpoint), 77.9% for 1L patients, and 77.6%/78.8% for high‐risk patients with del17p/TP53. At 2 years, PFS/OS rates were 77.8%/90.7% overall (1L, 82.7%/90.4%), and were consistent across cytogenetic subgroups. PFS rates were higher for 1L versus ≥3L patients. Patients with the low‐acceptance/low‐control typology at baseline were less likely to retain treatment at 1 year versus the high‐acceptance/high‐control typology. No new safety signals were observed.

Conclusions

The REALITY study provides further evidence of the effectiveness and safety of ibrutinib in patients with CLL in a real‐world setting, particularly in earlier treatment lines.
Contrasting impacts of non‐native and threatened species on morphological, life history, and phylogenetic diversity in bird assemblages
Authors: Toussaint Aurele , Pärtel Meelis , Carmona Carlos P.
Published: February 2024

Human activities have altered the species composition of assemblages through introductions and extinctions, but it remains unclear how those changes can affect the different facets of biodiversity. Here we assessed the impact of changes in species composition on taxonomic, functional, and phylogenetic diversity across 281 bird assemblages worldwide. To provide a more nuanced understanding of functional diversity, we distinguished morphological from life‐history traits. We showed that shifts in species composition could trigger a global decline in avian biodiversity due to the high number of potential extinctions. Moreover, these extinctions were not random but unique in terms of function and phylogeny at the regional level. Our findings demonstrated that non‐native species cannot compensate for these losses, as they are both morphologically and phylogenetically close to the native fauna. In the context of the ongoing biodiversity crisis, such alterations in the functional and phylogenetic structure of bird assemblages could heighten ecosystem vulnerability.
Aggressiveness overcomes body‐size effects in contests between native and invasive cichlid fishes
Authors: Aranda Dejanira , Arce Elsah , Mercado‐Silva Norman , Burciaga Luis M.
Published: February 2024

In animal fights, there are often size asymmetries between opponents. Although larger individuals typically dominate smaller ones, size is not the sole determining factor, as the competitors' motivation, aggressiveness, resource value, physiological characteristics, and strength also play crucial roles in fighting outcomes. In this study, we evaluated the influence of body size on dominance hierarchy and contest success during intra‐ and inter‐specific contests in two fish species: the native mojarra of the Balsas basin Amphilophus istlanus and the invasive convict cichlid Amatitlania nigrofasciata. We used size‐asymmetric males to carry out experimental contests. The number and type of aggressive behaviors, time to contest outcome, and dominant individual at the end of the contest were determined. In contests between two native mojarra, the smaller individual always lost. In contests between convict cichlids, the smaller contestants lost in all contests where size asymmetry was greater than 20%. In interspecific contests, the native mojarra performed more aggressive behaviors than the invasive convict cichlid and dominated convict cichlids despite a size disadvantage. This suggests that in terms of competition via interference, the native mojarra can counter the arrival of the invasive convict cichlid.
Population pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of nirmatrelvir in Chinese patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Zeng Liyan , Chen Rui , Jiang Xuhua , Li Feng , Zhu Zhaoqin , Jiao Zheng , Ling Yun , Zhang Lijun
Published: February 2024

Background

The pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) characteristics of nirmatrelvir (NMV) are unknown in Chinese patients with COVID‐19.

Objectives

To understand the PK, as well as PK–PD characteristics of NMV for optimizing the dose in Chinese patients with COVID‐19.

Methods

We enrolled 141 participants who received NMV 300 mg/ritonavir (RTV) 100 mg b.i.d. for 5 days. The NMV concentrations were analyzed using 251 blood samples. PK/PD of NMV was investigated in these COVID‐19 patients using a nonlinear mixed‐effects model.

Results

The patients had a mean age of 82 years (range, 34–97). The absorption rate constant and apparent clearance of NMV in this Chinese cohort were 0.253 h−1 and 6.83 L/h, respectively, similar to Caucasian patients. No covariates affected NMV clearance. Predicted peak (Cmax) and trough concentration (Cmin) under 300 mg NMV/100 mg RTV b.i.d. were 4004 and 1498 ng/mL, respectively. Although higher AUC and Cmin were weakly associated with a slight increase in the number of cycle threshold (CT) of viral genes, no significant correlation was found, indicating a weak relationship between drug exposure and efficacy (CT).

Conclusions

In all, our findings suggest no ethnic PK differences, a weak and clinically insignificant relationship between drug exposure and efficacy, suitable dosage for Chinese patients (including the elderly) based on PK parameters, and the need for further studies to determine optimal regimens for high‐risk patients due to inter‐individual variability.
Ursodeoxycholic acid for preventing parenteral nutrition‐associated cholestasis in neonates: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Anne Rajendra Prasad , Kadyada Srikanth Puttaiah , Aradhya Abhishek Somasekhara , Oleti Tejo Pratap
Published: February 2024

Background

While ursodeoxycholic acid is used in treating parenteral nutrition‐associated cholestasis (PNAC) in neonates, its role in prevention is unclear.

Objectives

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we attempted to determine the role of ursodeoxycholic acid in preventing PNAC in neonates.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and CINAHL databases were searched on September 16, 2023, for interventional studies comparing ursodeoxycholic acid with placebo.

Results

Of the 6180 unique records identified, five studies were eligible for inclusion (three randomised and two nonrandomised). Evidence from randomised trials showed that ursodeoxycholic acid prophylaxis did not reduce cholestasis, mortality, sepsis, and necrotising enterocolitis. Ursodeoxycholic acid prophylaxis reduced feed intolerance (RR 0.23 (0.09, 0.64); 1 RCT, 102 neonates), peak conjugated bilirubin levels (MD −0.13 (−0.22, −0.04) mg/dL; 1 RCT, 102 neonates), and time to full enteral feeds (MD −2.7 (−5.09, −0.31) days; 2 RCTs, 76 neonates). There was no decrease in hospital stay and parenteral nutrition duration. Data from nonrandomised studies did not show benefit in any of the outcomes. The certainty of the evidence was low to very low.

Conclusion

Because of the very low‐quality evidence and lack of evidence on critical outcomes, definitive conclusions could not be made on using ursodeoxycholic acid to prevent parenteral nutrition‐associated cholestasis in neonates.
Elevated atmospheric CO2 drives decreases in stable soil organic carbon in arid ecosystems: Evidence from a physical fractionation and organic compound analysis
Authors: Jensen Kelsey H. , Grandy A. Stuart , Sparks Jed P.
Published: February 2024

The increasing concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere is perturbing the global carbon (C) cycle, altering stocks of organic C, including soil organic matter (SOM). The effect of this disturbance on soils in arid ecosystems may differ from other ecosystems due to water limitation. In this study, we conducted a density fractionation on soils previously harvested from the Nevada Desert FACE Facility (NDFF) to understand how elevated atmospheric CO2 (eCO2) affects SOM stability. Soils from beneath the perennial shrub, Larrea tridentata, and from unvegetated interspace were subjected to a sodium polytungstate density fractionation to separate light, particulate organic matter (POM, <1.85 g/cm3) from heavier, mineral associated organic matter (MAOM, >1.85 g/cm3). These fractions were analyzed for organic C, total N, δ13C and δ15N, to understand the mechanisms behind changes. The heavy fraction was further analyzed by pyrolysis GC/MS to assess changes in organic compound composition. Elevated CO2 decreased POM‐C and MAOM‐C in soils beneath L. tridentata while interspace soils exhibited only a small increase in MAOM‐N. Analysis of δ13C revealed incorporation of new C into both POM and MAOM pools indicating eCO2 stimulated rapid turnover of both POM and MAOM. The largest losses of POM‐C and MAOM‐C observed under eCO2 occurred in soils 20–40 cm in depth, highlighting that belowground C inputs may be a significant driver of SOM decomposition in this ecosystem. Pyrolysis GC/MS analysis revealed a decrease in organic compound diversity in the MAOM fraction of L. tridentata soils, becoming more similar to interspace soils under eCO2. These results provide further evidence that MAOM stability may be compromised under disturbance and that SOC stocks in arid ecosystems are vulnerable under continued climate change.
Peri‐operative desmopressin combined with pharmacokinetic‐guided factor VIII concentrate in non‐severe haemophilia A patients
Authors: Romano Lorenzo G. R. , Schütte Lisette M. , van Hest Reinier M. , Meijer Karina , Laros‐van Gorkom Britta A. P. , Nieuwenhuizen Laurens , Eikenboom Jeroen , Heubel‐Moenen Floor C. J. I. , Uitslager Nanda , Coppens Michiel , Fijnvandraat Karin , Driessens Mariëtte H. E. , Polinder Suzanne , Cnossen Marjon H. , Leebeek Frank W. G. , Mathôt Ron A. A. , Kruip Marieke J. H. A. ,    the DAVID and SYMPHONY Consortium
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Non‐severe haemophilia A patient can be treated with desmopressin or factor VIII (FVIII) concentrate. Combining both may reduce factor consumption, but its feasibility and safety has never been investigated.

Aim

We assessed the feasibility and safety of combination treatment in nonsevere haemophilia A patients.

Methods

Non‐severe, desmopressin responsive, haemophilia A patients were included in one of two studies investigating peri‐operative combination treatment. In the single‐arm DAVID study intravenous desmopressin (0.3 μg/kg) once‐a‐day was, after sampling, immediately followed by PK‐guided FVIII concentrate, for maximally three consecutive days. The Little DAVID study was a randomized trial in patients undergoing a minor medical procedure, whom received either PK‐guided combination treatment (intervention arm) or PK‐guided FVIII concentrate only (standard arm) up to 2 days. Dose predictions were considered accurate if the absolute difference between predicted and measured FVIII:C was ≤0.2 IU/mL.

Results

In total 32 patients (33 procedures) were included. In the DAVID study (n = 21), of the FVIII:C trough levels 73.7% (14/19) were predicted accurately on day 1 (D1), 76.5% (13/17) on D2. On D0, 61.9% (13/21) of peak FVIII:C levels predictions were accurate. In the Little DAVID study (n = 12), on D0 83.3% (5/6) FVIII:C peak levels for both study arms were predicted accurately. Combination treatment reduced preoperative FVIII concentrate use by 47% versus FVIII monotherapy. Desmopressin side effects were mild and transient. Two bleeds occurred, both despite FVIII:C > 1.00 IU/mL.

Conclusion

Peri‐operative combination treatment with desmopressin and PK‐guided FVIII concentrate dosing in nonsevere haemophilia A is feasible, safe and reduces FVIII consumption.
Exploring androgen receptor signaling pathway in prostate cancer: A path to new discoveries
Authors: Obinata Daisuke , Takayama Kenichi , Inoue Satoshi , Takahashi Satoru
Published: February 2024

Androgen deprivation therapy has achieved significant success in treating prostate cancer through strategies centered on the androgen receptor. However, the emergence of castration‐resistant prostate cancer highlights this therapy limitation, underscoring the need to elucidate the mechanisms of treatment resistance. This review aimed to focus on multifaceted resistance mechanisms, including androgen receptor overexpression, splice variants, missense mutations, the involvement of the glucocorticoid receptor, and alterations in coregulators and transcription factors, revealing their roles in castration‐resistant prostate cancer progression. These mechanisms promote cell survival and proliferation, depending on the androgen receptor signaling pathway, leading to resistance to conventional therapies. Amplification and mutations in the androgen receptor gene facilitate selective adaptation in treatment‐resistant cells, consequently diminishing therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, the activation of glucocorticoid receptors and aberrant regulation of specific coregulators and transcription factors contribute to the activation of androgen receptor‐independent signaling pathways, promoting cell survival and proliferation. These findings hold promise for identifying new targets for treating castration‐resistant prostate cancer and developing personalized treatment strategies. The development of future therapies will hinge on precisely targeting the androgen receptor signaling pathway, necessitating a deeper understanding of the molecular targets unique to castration‐resistant prostate cancer.
The Tools of External Migration Policy in the EU Member States: The Case of Italy
Authors: Fontana Iole , Rosina Matilde
Published: February 2024

This article focuses on the external dimension of migration policy (EXMIPO) in the EU member states (MSs), through a policy tool approach. It offers an analytical framework for conceptualizing MS EXMIPO, by (1) unpacking its tools and (2) understanding their relationship with EU‐level migration governance, as based on competition, convergence and complementarity. Empirically, it examines the case of Italy, building on an original dataset spanning over 30 years and 125 instruments. Through the Italian case, this article demonstrates that MSs have developed an intense external action at the bilateral level in the field of migration, which has expanded quantitatively and qualitatively, alongside (and despite) EU initiatives.
The efficacy of combining adjuvants with non‐surgical periodontal therapy in individuals with type 2 diabetes: A Bayesian network meta‐analysis
Authors: Zanatta Fabrício Batistin , Antoniazzi Raquel Pippi , Oliveira Leandro Machado , Lietzan Adam D. , Miguez Patricia A. , Susin Cristiano
Published: February 2024

Aim

This Bayesian network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials assessed the effect of adjuvant periodontal treatment in both periodontal and HbA1c outcomes in adult individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Materials and Methods

A systematic search was done up to February 2023 comparing sub‐gingival debridement (SD) in combination with local or systemic adjuvant treatment with SD alone for individuals with T2DM. The primary outcomes were changes in absolute HbA1c levels and full‐mouth probing depth reported at 3‐ to 6‐month post‐treatment.

Results

Seventy‐two eligible publications evaluating 27 adjuvant treatments were retrieved. The combination of SD and systemic antibiotic metronidazole or SD and antioxidant alpha lipoic acid provided, respectively, 1.4% (95% credible interval [CrI] 0.48; 2.20) and 2.4% (95% CrI 1.50; 3.30) more significant improvement on HbA1c levels, and 0.89 mm (95% CrI 0.23; 1.50) and 0.92 mm (95% CrI 0.02; 0.92) greater periodontal probing depth reductions. Other adjuvant treatments provided added benefit to the periodontal outcomes without discernible effects on HbA1c.

Conclusions

Adjuvant use of metronidazole or alpha lipoic acid was the best adjunct option to provide clinically meaningful HbA1c levels and probing depth reductions. However, no strong recommendation can be drawn due to the scarcity of studies for each adjuvant treatment and the low certainty of the resultant evidence.
Scoping review of systematic reviews of nursing interventions in a neonatal intensive care unit or special care nursery
Authors: Foster Jann , Pathrose Sheeja Perumbil , Briguglio Laura , Trajkovski Suza , Lowe Patricia , Muirhead Renee , Jyoti Jeewan , Ng Linda , Blay Nicole , Spence Kaye , Chetty Natasha , Broom Margaret
Published: February 2024

Aim(s)

To identify, synthesise and map systematic reviews of the effectiveness of nursing interventions undertaken in a neonatal intensive care unit or special care nursery.

Design

This scoping review was conducted according to the JBI scoping review framework.

Methods

Review included systematic reviews that evaluated any nurse‐initiated interventions that were undertaken in an NICU or SCN setting. Studies that reported one or more positive outcomes related to the nursing interventions were only considered for this review. Each outcome for nursing interventions was rated a ‘certainty (quality) of evidence’ according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations criteria.

Data Sources

Systematic reviews were sourced from the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Joanna Briggs Institute Evidence Synthesis for reviews published until February 2023.

Results

A total of 428 articles were identified; following screening, 81 reviews underwent full‐text screening, and 34 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Multiple nursing interventions reporting positive outcomes were identified and were grouped into seven categories. Respiratory 7/34 (20%) and Nutrition 8/34 (23%) outcomes were the most reported categories. Developmental care was the next most reported category 5/34 (15%) followed by Thermoregulation, 5/34 (15%) Jaundice 4/34 (12%), Pain 4/34 (12%) and Infection 1/34 (3%).

Conclusions

This review has identified nursing interventions that have a direct positive impact on neonatal outcomes. However, further applied research is needed to transfer this empirical knowledge into clinical practice.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

Implementing up‐to‐date evidence on effective nursing interventions has the potential to significantly improving neonatal outcomes.

Patient or public contribution

No patient or public involvement in this scoping review.
Political Polarization Affects Households' Financial Decisions: Evidence from Home Sales
Authors: MCCARTNEY W. BEN , ORELLANA‐LI JOHN , ZHANG CALVIN
Published: February 2024

Political identity and partisanship are salient features of today's society. Using deeds records and voter rolls, we show that current residents are more likely to sell their homes when opposite‐party neighbors move in nearby than when unaffiliated or same‐party neighbors do. This is especially true when the new neighbors are politically active, consistent with an animosity between parties mechanism. We conclude that affective polarization is not limited to purely political settings and affects one of the household's most important financial decisions, their home transactions.
Igniting taxonomic curiosity: The amazing story of Amazonocrinis with the description of a new genus Ahomia gen. nov. and novel species of Ahomia, Amazonocrinis, and Dendronalium from the biodiversity‐rich northeast region of India
Authors: Pal Sagarika , Saraf Aniket , Kumar Naresh , Singh Prashant
Published: February 2024

Five cyanobacterial strains exhibiting Nostoc‐like morphology were sampled from the biodiversity hotspots of the northeast region of India and characterized using a polyphasic approach. Molecular and phylogenetic analysis using the 16S rRNA gene indicated that the strains belonged to the genera Amazonocrinis and Dendronalium. In the present investigation, the 16S rRNA gene phylogeny clearly demarcated two separate clades of Amazonocrinis. The strain MEG8‐PS clustered along with Amazonocrinis nigriterrae CENA67, which is the type strain of the genus. The other three strains ASM11‐PS, RAN‐4C‐PS, and NP‐KLS‐5A‐PS clustered in a different clade that was phylogenetically distinct from the Amazonocrinis sensu stricto clade. Interestingly, while the 16S rRNA gene phylogeny exhibited two separate clusters, the 16S–23S ITS region analysis did not provide strong support for the phylogenetic observation. Subsequent analyses raised questions regarding the resolving power of the 16S–23S ITS region at the genera level and the associated complexities in cyanobacterial taxonomy. Through this study, we describe a novel genus Ahomia to accommodate the members clustering outside the Amazonocrinis sensu stricto clade. In addition, we describe five novel species, Ahomia kamrupensis, Ahomia purpurea, Ahomia soli, Amazonocrinis meghalayensis, and Dendronalium spirale, in accordance with the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICN). Apart from further enriching the genera Amazonocrinis and Dendronalium, the current study helps to resolve the taxonomic complexities revolving around the genus Amazonocrinis and aims to attract researchers to the continued exploration of the tropical and subtropical cyanobacteria for interesting taxa and lineages.