bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic augmentation of rhythmic myogenic contractions of human stomach by arginine vasopressin and adrenaline: Implications for the induction of nausea
Authors: Makwana Raj , Crawley Ellie , Straface Marilisa , Palmer Alexandra , Gharibans Armen , Devalia Kalpana , Loy John , O'Grady Greg , Andrews Paul L. R. , Sanger Gareth J.
Published: September 2022

Background and Purpose

Nausea is associated with the hormonal secretion of vasopressin and adrenaline, although their actions in inducing nausea is poorly understood. Here, we have investigated their actions on human stomach muscle.

Experimental Approach

Muscle strips were suspended in tissue baths and neuronal‐/non‐neuronally‐mediated contractions were measured. Custom software analysed eight motility parameters defining spontaneous phasic non‐neuronally mediated contractions. Receptor distributions were assessed by qPCR and immunofluorescence.

Key Results

V1A receptors and α1‐adrenoceptors were located on muscle as well as interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs). Myogenic contractions of human proximal and distal stomach (respectively, 2.6 ± 0.1 and 2.7 ± 0.0 per minute; n = 44) were larger in the distal area (1.1 ± 0.1 and 5.0 ± 0.1 mN), developing relatively slowly (proximal) or rapidly (distal). Vasopressin caused tonic (proximal) or short‐lived (distal) increases in muscle tone and increased myogenic contraction amplitude, frequency and rate (acting at V1A receptors; thresholds 10−11–10−10 M); by contrast, cholinergically mediated contractions were unaffected. Oxytocin acted similarly to vasopressin but less potently, at OT receptors). Adrenaline increased (10−10–10−5 M; α1‐adrenoceptors) and decreased (≥10−6 M; β‐adrenoceptors) muscle tone and enhanced/reduced myogenic contractions. Cholinergically mediated contractions were reduced (α2‐adrenoceptors). Combined, vasopressin (10−9 M) and adrenaline (10−8 M) increased muscle tone and phasic myogenic activity in a synergistic manner.

Conclusions and Implications

Vasopressin and adrenaline increased human gastric tone and myogenic contraction amplitude, rate of contraction and frequency. In combination, their actions were further increased in a synergistic manner. Such activity may promote nausea.
Hydrostatic pore water pressure revisited
Authors: Stewart Simon A. , Albertz Markus
Published: September 2022

Hydrostatic or “normal” pressure can be easily visualized as a water column with pressure given by ρgh and any departures classified as abnormal pressure. This is the basis for commonly used hydrostatic pressure depth trends in sedimentary basins that are constructed on assumptions of constant gradients and are datumed at mean sea level or ground level. But the straightforward water column concept does not upscale in a simple way to sedimentary basins where the zones of interest are several thousands of metres below the land or sea surface. Sedimentary basins are heterogeneous, including stacked, confined reservoirs and variations in pore water composition. It is possible to construct pressure‐depth profiles that honour the geology and hydrostratigraphy of a basin and these give different hydrostatic baselines from simple constant gradients hung from familiar local datums such as ground level. Key steps are using a reservoir‐specific datums such as the water table or potentiometric surface relevant to that unit, then building a pressure‐depth trend that represents the pore fluid salinity variation and density profile throughout the reservoir unit. At a given depth, this version of hydrostatic may predict pressures several hundred psi different from a single density gradient hung from a datum local to the well, and exhibit a notched profile reflecting the geological and hydrological stratigraphy. This construct redefines normal and abnormal pore fluid pressures in sedimentary basins. The impacts of this alternative approach to sedimentary basin hydrostatics, even if data are limited and pressure profiles have to be framed probabilistically, extend to many aspects of studying and interacting with fluid systems in sedimentary basins including basin modelling, petroleum systems analysis, well planning and well operations.
Strengthening parental self‐efficacy and resilience: A within‐subject experimental study with refugee parents of adolescents
Authors: Eltanamly Hend , Leijten Patty , van Roekel Eeske , Mouton Benedicte , Pluess Michael , Overbeek Geertjan
Published: September 2022

Post‐migration stress and parenting adolescents can reduce parental self‐efficacy. This study tested the effects of strengthening parental self‐efficacy in refugee parents of adolescents and whether this makes parental self‐efficacy less impacted by post‐migration stressors. Using a within‐subject experimental design, experience sampling data were collected in 2019 from 53 refugee parents of adolescents (Mage = 39.7, SDage = 5.59, 73% Syrian, 70% mothers) in the Netherlands. Data were analyzed by dynamic structural equation modeling using interrupted time‐series analysis. The single‐session personalized intervention strengthened parental self‐efficacy (small effect: between case standardized mean difference = 0.09) and made refugee parents less vulnerable to post‐migration stressors. Findings suggest that parental self‐efficacy is malleable and strengthening it fosters refugee parents' resilience. Replications with longer‐term follow‐ups are needed.
Family involvement in child welfare services: The association between socio‐economic status and self‐reported parenting practices
Authors: Fævelen Malin , Fauske Halvor , Kojan Bente Heggem , Kaasbøll Jannike
Published: September 2022

In child welfare policies, as in contemporary society in general, great attention has been given to parenting roles and investing in ‘positive’ parenting practices. Several studies have suggested that socio‐economic factors frame parenting practices. There is broad evidence of a significant correlation between socio‐economic inequalities and child welfare intervention rates. Nevertheless, few studies have investigated parenting practices in a child welfare population. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between socio‐economic status (SES) and parenting practices in a Norwegian child welfare population. The study was based on a cross‐sectional survey conducted in 2018–2019. The sample consisted of 256 parents (71.5% females). Linear regression analysis, adjusting for potential confounding and intermediate factors, was conducted. Lower SES was associated with higher levels of positive parenting/involvement practices (b = 0.146, CI: 0.026–0.266, P = 0.018), indicating an inverse pattern compared with the general population. When adjusting for symptoms of anxiety and depression, the association was slightly attenuated but remained statistically significant. No significant association was found between SES and inconsistent discipline/other disciplinary practices. The present study offers insights that should be useful in practice and further large‐scale studies.
The effect of age and disease duration on the efficacy of subthalamic nuclei deep brain stimulation in Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: Du Tingting , Yuan Tianshuo , Zhu Guanyu , Ma Ruoyu , Zhang Xin , Chen Yingchuan , Zhang Jianguo
Published: September 2022

Background

Previous studies have reported the effects of age and disease duration on the efficacy of subthalamic nuclei deep brain stimulation (STN‐DBS) of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. However, available data involving these issues are not consistent. In particular, the effect of age and disease duration on the initial efficacy of STN‐DBS has not been established.

Methods

A total of 51 patients with PD treated with bilateral STN‐DBS were involved in the present study. They received clinical symptom evaluation during the preoperative, initial, and chronic stages of surgery. The correlations between age when undergoing surgery/age at disease onset/disease duration and outcomes of STN‐DBS were measured.

Results

The preoperative levodopa response was negatively associated with age. During the initial stage, the age when undergoing surgery and age at disease onset were negatively correlated with the effect on bradykinesia, with better symptom control of general symptoms in long‐term disease patients. Similarly, patients with an early time of surgery and disease onset and long‐term disease duration showed better control of bradykinesia and axial symptoms at the chronic stage. Furthermore, a long‐term disease duration and early disease onset benefited from an increase of therapeutic efficacy in general, rigid, and axial symptoms with STN‐DBS after a long period. Nevertheless, patients with late disease onset achieved a better relief of stigma.

Conclusion

Age and disease durations played a unique role in controlling the symptoms of PD patients treated with STN‐DBS. These results may contribute to patient selection and adjustments of expectations of surgery, based on the age, disease duration, and different symptoms.
Role of time from transplantation to biopsy in histologic ABMR: A single center report
Authors: Chancay Jorge , Liu Caroline , Chauhan Kinsuk , Andersen Lisa , Harris Cynthia , Coca Steven , Delaney Veronica , Tedla Fasika , De Boccardo Graciela , Sehgal Vinita , Moledina Dennis , Formica Richard , Reghuvaran Anand , Banu Khadija , Florman Sander , Akalin Enver , Shapiro Ron , Salem Fadi , Menon Madhav C.
Published: September 2022

Background

Allograft biopsies with lesions of Antibody‐Mediated Rejection (ABMR) with Microvascular Inflammation (MVI) have shown heterogeneous etiologies and outcomes.

Methods

To examine factors associated with outcomes in biopsies that meet histologic ABMR criteria, we retrospectively evaluated for‐cause biopsies at our center between 2011 and 2017. We included biopsies that met the diagnosis of ABMR by histology, along with simultaneous evaluation for anti‐Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) donor‐specific antibodies (DSA). We evaluated death‐censored graft loss (DCGL) and used a principal component analysis (PCA) approach to identify key predictors of outcomes.

Results

Out of the histologic ABMR cohort (n = 118), 70 were DSA‐positive ABMR, while 48 had no DSA. DSA(+)ABMR were younger and more often female recipients. DSA(+)ABMR occurred significantly later post‐transplant than DSA(‐)ABMR suggesting time‐dependence. DSA(+)ABMR had higher inflammatory scores (i,t), chronicity scores (ci, ct) and tended to have higher MVI scores. Immunodominance of DQ‐DSA in DSA(+)ABMR was associated with higher i+t scores. Clinical/histologic factors significantly associated with DCGL after biopsy were inputted into the PCA. Principal component‐1 (PC‐1), which contributed 34.8% of the variance, significantly correlated with time from transplantation to biopsy, ci/ct scores and DCGL. In the PCA analyses, i, t scores, DQ‐DSA, and creatinine at biopsy retained significant correlations with GL‐associated PCs.

Conclusions

Time from transplantation to biopsy plays a major role in the prognosis of biopsies with histologic ABMR and MVI, likely due to ongoing chronic allograft injury over time.
Climatic filtering and temporal instability shape the phylogenetic diversity of European alpine floras
Authors: Padullés Cubino Josep , Chytrý Milan , Divíšek Jan , Jiménez‐Alfaro Borja
Published: September 2022

Alpine ecosystems are hotspots of biodiversity despite their cold climates. Here we investigate spatial patterns in the phylogenetic diversity (i.e. the degree of species relatedness) of European alpine floras and quantify the influence of climatic conditions since the late Pleistocene and historical climatic instability in shaping these patterns. We collected species‐pool data for 22 alpine regions in central and southern Europe and calculated phylogenetic diversity within and between regions using two metrics sensitive to terminal branching in the phylogeny. We regressed phylogenetic diversity against macroclimatic variables representing seasonal extremes between the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM; 21 000 years BP) and the present at 1000‐year intervals. We found the lowest phylogenetic diversity in the Carpathians and the central Alps, and the highest in the north‐eastern and southern Iberian Peninsula. Phylogenetic diversity decreased with temperature seasonality and low winter temperature. While the effect of temperature seasonality was relatively constant over time, the influence of winter temperature decreased after the LGM. We also found that phylogenetic diversity decreased with historical climatic instability. Between regions, phylogenetic diversity was mainly explained by current climatic distance rather than geographic distance, suggesting that alpine floras were primarily driven by species sorting along climatic gradients. Our results confirm the role of environmental filtering in shaping the current phylogenetic diversity of alpine floras, resulting in more closely related lineages in regions with relatively cold and unstable climates. We also highlight the importance of explicitly incorporating climatic variation through time to better understand the processes structuring the current biodiversity of alpine floras.
In‐plane guided upper arm arteriovenous fistula cannulation with color ultrasound
Authors: Wu Aichun , Huang Hai , Zhang Huang , Li Hongbing
Published: September 2022

Background

The blood vessel in the upper extremity arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is deep in the tissue, and cannulation in AVF is frequently associated with blood oozing, hematoma, or aneurysm. This study evaluated the performance of color ultrasound in‐plane guided cannulation technique during upper extremity high‐AVF cannulation in patients with hemodialysis.

Methods

A total of 40 patients with hemodialysis who needed cannulation in upper extremity AVF were recruited in the study, and the patients were randomly divided into observation group and control group. Color Doppler ultrasound was used to guide cannulation in the observation group and in the control group blind cannulation method was applied. The success rate of one‐time cannulation, the incidence of subcutaneous hematoma, oozing, and pain caused by incorrect fistula cannulation as well as the satisfaction score of the patients were compared to evaluate the effect and advantages of color ultrasound‐guided cannulation.

Results

The one‐time success rate of internal fistula cannulation in the observation group (98.71%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (88.27%). The incidence rates of hematoma, oozing, pain, and total failure events were significantly reduced in the observation group. The average satisfaction degree in the observation group was also significantly higher than that of the control group.

Conclusion

Ultrasonic‐guided cannulation effectively enhances the success rate of cannulation in upper extremity AVF, reduces the incidence of cannulation failures, and improves the satisfaction level in the patients.
Informal carers' support needs, facilitators and barriers in the transitional care of older adults: A qualitative study
Authors: Allen Jacqueline , Lobchuk Michelle , Livingston Patricia M. , Layton Natasha , Hutchinson Alison M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Inclusion of informal carers in transitional care is challenging because of fast throughput and service fragmentation. This study aimed to understand informal carers' needs during the care transitions of older adults from inpatient care to the community.

Methods

A qualitative exploratory design was used with mixed‐methods data collection. Seventeen semi‐structured telephone interviews were conducted with family carers; one focus group was conducted by videoconference with two family carers and three community‐based advocacy and aged care providers; and eight semi‐structured telephone interviews were undertaken with healthcare practitioners from rehabilitation services. Data were thematically analysed.

Findings

All carers described the main social challenge that they needed to address in transitional care as ‘Needing to sustain family’. Carers reported their social needs across five solutions: ‘Partnering with carers’, ‘Advocating for discharge’, ‘Accessing streamlined multidisciplinary care’, ‘Knowing how to care’ and ‘Accessing follow‐up care in the community’. Focus group participants endorsed the findings from the carer interviews and added the theme ‘Putting responsibility back onto carers’. All healthcare practitioners described the main social challenge that they needed to address as ‘Needing to engage carers’. They reported their social solutions in three themes: ‘Communicating with carers’, ‘Planning with carers’ and ‘Educating carers’.

Discussion

Findings highlight the importance of reconstructing the meaning of transitional care and relevant outcomes to be inclusive of carers' experiences and their focus on sustaining family. Transitional care that includes carers should commence at the time of hospital admission of the older adult.

Conclusions

Future sustainable and high‐quality health services for older adults will require transitional care that includes carers and older adults and efficient use of inpatient and community care resources. Healthcare professionals will require education and skills in the provision of transitional care that includes carers. To meet carers' support needs, models of transitional care inclusive of carers and older adults should be developed, implemented and evaluated.

Public Contribution

This study was conducted with the guidance of a Carer Advisory Group comprising informal carers with experience of care transitions of older adults they support and community‐based organizations providing care and advocacy support to informal carers.
Detection of major VOCs in exhaled breath under ppb level using porous ZnO nanobelts
Authors: Kim Kyusung , Choi Pil gyu , Itoh Toshio , Masuda Yoshitake
Published: September 2022

Atomic defects can enhance catalytic efficiency by providing coordinatively unsaturated sites in the crystal structure of metal oxides. It allows facile chemical reactions because the sites can react with other molecules with relatively lower energy. Therefore, atomic defect engineering can be a cost‐effective strategy to replace novel metal catalysts for the development of ultrasensitive gas sensors. Herein, we fabricated porous ZnO nanobelts with atomic step structures for acetone, ethanol, and isoprene gas sensing under the parts‐per‐billion (ppb) level. Numerous atomic step structures could be formed by removing H and F atoms during the conversion process of ZnOHF at 500°C. The synthesis method of metal oxide nanomaterial by conversion from metal hydroxide fluoride will provide the atomic defects and it will be useful to prepare ultrasensitive sensing material. Furthermore, the gas selectivity of the porous ZnO nanobelt was investigated based on the appearance energy associated with the separation of the methyl group.
Lactic acid bacteria: an essential probiotic and starter culture for the production of yoghurt
Authors: Ayivi Raphael D. , Ibrahim Salam A.
Published: September 2022

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are ubiquitous and integral members of the heterogeneous class of bacteria employed for fermented food and dairy applications such as yoghurt products. LAB are gram‐positive, non‐spore‐forming, non‐respiring but aerotolerant microorganisms that are generally characterised by the production of lactic acid as a key fermentation product. LAB, specifically Lb. bulgaricus, are essential dairy starter cultures for the manufacture of several fermented dairy products such as yoghurt and cheese. In this review, we discuss the importance of LAB as starter cultures and a probiotic for yoghurt production, its mode of metabolism, acidification characteristic, synthesis of lactase (β‐galactosidase) and a perspective on LAB's growth medium for dairy fermentations.
Sin máscara: las condiciones laborales en las plataformas digitales de trabajo durante la pandemia de COVID‐19
Authors: HOWSON Kelle , USTEK‐SPILDA Funda , BERTOLINI Alessio , HEEKS Richard , FERRARI Fabian , KATTA Srujana , COLE Matthew , AGUERA RENESES Pablo , SALEM Nancy , SUTCLIFFE David , STEWARD Shelly , GRAHAM Mark
Published: September 2022

Las plataformas digitales de trabajo se promueven a gran escala como solución a la crisis de desempleo provocada por la pandemia de COVID‐19. Sin embargo, la pandemia también ha puesto de manifiesto la vulnerabilidad de quienes trabajan en ellas en tareas consideradas esenciales. Se examinan aquí las políticas de COVID‐19 de 191 plataformas en 43 países para entender cómo la crisis ha cambiado las convenciones de la economía de plataformas. Utilizando una tipología de «trabajo de plataforma justo», se identifican avances en la protección de las y los trabajadores, pero también problemas significativos, como el afianzamiento del trabajo precario a medida que las plataformas aprovechan las oportunidades derivadas de la crisis.
Women in transit: Risky journeys and precarious lives among North Korean female escapees in China
Authors: Sung Sangmi
Published: September 2022

This article seeks to unpack the gendered dynamic of transit migration through a case study of North Korean women escapees in China. Drawing on the notion of situated agency, which implies that agency is a kind of social embedding, this paper analysed 30 interview narratives of North Korean women to capture the structural factors that shape their risky journeys and precarious lives in transit. The content analysis reveals key gendered dimensions of transit migration. The feminized marketization in North Korea caused a dramatic increase in the outflow of women to China. The border‐crossing and deportation experiences of female escapees are precipitated by a complicated smuggling and trafficking industry. Despite their hyper‐precarious lifeworlds in the transit country, these women show varying degrees of resilience and resourcefulness that enable them to move on to their next steps of life. The findings broaden our understanding on the meaning of gendered mobility in transit migration shaped by the deterrent border regime.
Change in functional status associated with respiratory syncytial virus infection in hospitalized older adults
Authors: Branche Angela R. , Saiman Lisa , Walsh Edward E. , Falsey Ann R. , Jia Haomiao , Barrett Angela , Alba Luis , Phillips Matthew , Finelli Lyn
Published: September 2022

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes severe respiratory illnesses in infants and older adults. Older adults are frequently hospitalized with RSV illness and may experience loss of function. This study evaluated longitudinal changes in function associated with RSV hospitalization in older adults.

Methods

Adults ≥60 years hospitalized with laboratory‐confirmed RSV were enrolled (N = 302). Demographics and comorbidities were collected. Functional status was assessed 2 weeks pre‐hospitalization by recall, at enrollment, hospital discharge and 2, 4, and 6 months post‐discharge using the Lawton–Brody Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) (scale 0–8) and Barthel ADL Index (scale 0–100).

Results

RSV‐associated hospitalization resulted in acute functional loss. Median IADL (5 vs. 3, p < 0.0001) and ADL (90 vs. 70, p < 0.0001) scores decreased significantly from pre‐hospitalization to admission and remained decreased at discharge. There were no statistically significant differences between pre‐hospitalization and 2‐, 4‐, or 6‐month scores. However, 33% and 32% of subjects experienced decreased 6‐month IADL and ADL scores, respectively. Additionally, 14% required a higher level of care at discharge. When stratified by pre‐hospitalization living situation, 6‐month IADL scores declined significantly for those admitted from a skilled nursing facility (3 vs. 1, p = 0.001). In multivariate analysis, male sex and diabetes were associated with a 6‐month decline in ADL score of ≥10.

Conclusions

Older adults hospitalized with RSV demonstrate acute functional decline that may become prolonged. Pre‐hospitalization living situation may predict patient outcomes. Further study is needed with hospitalized age‐matched controls and refined measurement tools to better define the specific impact of RSV on function.
Nurses' knowledge and confidence in recognizing and managing patients with sepsis: A multi‐site cross‐sectional study
Authors: Chua Wei Ling , Teh Chin Shim , Basri Muhammad Amin Bin Ahmad , Ong Shi Ting , Phang Noel Qiao Qi , Goh Ee Ling
Published: September 2022

Aims

(1) To examine registered nurses' knowledge and confidence in recognizing and managing to patients with sepsis and (2) identify nurse and workplace factors that influence their knowledge on sepsis.

Design

A multi‐site, cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

An online survey was developed and content validated. Data was collected from registered nurses working in the inpatient wards and emergency departments of three hospitals of a single healthcare cluster in Singapore during August 2021. Statistical analyses of closed‐ended responses and content analysis of open‐ended responses were undertaken.

Results

A total of 709 nurses completed the survey. Nurses possessed moderate levels of knowledge about sepsis (mean score = 10.56/15; SD = 2.01) and confidence in recognizing and responding to patients with sepsis (mean score = 18.46/25; SD = 2.79). However, only 369 (52.0%) could correctly define sepsis. Nurses' job grade, nursing education level and clinical work area were significant predictors of nurses' sepsis knowledge. Specifically, nurses with higher job grade, higher nursing education level or those working in acute care areas (i.e. emergency department, high dependency units or intensive care units) were more likely to obtain higher total sepsis knowledge scores. A weak positive correlation was observed between sepsis knowledge test scores and self‐confidence (r = .184). Open comments revealed that participants desired for more sepsis education and training opportunities and the implementation of sepsis screening tool and sepsis care protocol.

Conclusion

A stronger foundation in sepsis education and training programs and the implementation of sepsis screening tools and care bundles are needed to enhance nurses' knowledge and confidence in recognizing and managing patients with sepsis.

Impact

The findings of this study are beneficial to administrators, educators and researchers in designing interventions to support nurses in their role in recognizing and responding to sepsis.
Self‐report instruments for measuring patient dignity: A psychometric systematic review
Authors: Lam Le Trinh , Chang Hsin‐Yi , Natashia Dhea , Lai Wei‐Shu , Yen Miaofen
Published: September 2022

Aims

To synthesize and evaluate the psychometric properties of self‐report instruments that measure patient dignity.

Design

A psychometric systematic review.

Data sources

A comprehensive search of studies published from inception until February 17, 2022, was performed using PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus.

Review Methods

The methodological quality of the psychometric studies was evaluated following the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) guidelines.

Results

Eleven self‐report instruments that evaluate dignity were identified. For most instruments, psychometric properties, including reliability, cross‐cultural validity, responsiveness, and measurement error, had not been adequately examined. The Patient Dignity Inventory (PDI), the Jacelon's Attributed Dignity Scale (JADS), and the Inpatient Dignity Scale (IPDS) had acceptable content validity, structure validity, and internal consistency to measure dignity among adult patients under palliative care, community‐dwelling older adults, and inpatients receiving daily care.

Conclusion

The PDI, the JADS, and the IPDS are recommended for future clinical practice and research to measure dignity among adult patients under palliative care, community‐dwelling older adults, and inpatients receiving daily care. Early identification of patients' dignity‐related problems in nursing care can prevent negative health outcomes and help develop a timely intervention to promote patients' health and recovery.

Impact

Given that the psychometric properties of the existing self‐report dignity instruments have not been systematically assessed, the present review utilized comprehensive methods according to COSMIN to evaluate and determine the most appropriate measure for research and practice. The PDI, the JADS, and the IPDS demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties and are, thus, recommended for clinical and research applications. Nursing professionals can employ these instruments to assess and promptly identify dignity issues among both young and older adults in hospitals and communities.
Roles of the apicoplast across the life cycles of rodent and human malaria parasites
Authors: Buchanan Hayley D. , Goodman Christopher D. , McFadden Geoffrey I.
Published: September 2022

Malaria parasites are diheteroxenous, requiring two hosts—a vertebrate and a mosquito—to complete their life cycle. Mosquitoes are the definitive host where malaria parasite sex occurs, and vertebrates are the intermediate host, supporting asexual amplification and more significant geographic spread. In this review, we examine the roles of a single malaria parasite compartment, the relict plastid known as the apicoplast, at each life cycle stage. We focus mainly on two malaria parasite species—Plasmodium falciparum and P. berghei—comparing the changing, yet ever crucial, roles of their apicoplasts.
The role of progesterone in memory bias during spatial navigation in females
Authors: Gomez‐Perales Eamonn L. , Brake Wayne G.
Published: September 2022

Rats can use several memory systems to navigate a maze toward a reward. Two of these are place memory and response memory and female rats can be biased to predominantly use one over another. Both progesterone and estrogens have been shown to alter memory bias. Although the effects of estrogens have been well documented, the effects of progesterone remain somewhat unexplored. Mechanisms through which progesterone may be acting to exert its effects are reviewed here. Converging evidence suggests that the actions of progesterone differ depending on the presence of estrogens, frequently acting in opposition to estrogens when administered together. The hippocampus, dorsal striatum, and prefrontal cortex are likely involved, as is the progesterone metabolite, allopregnanolone. There is a need for more research on progesterone and memory bias, especially considering current formulations of hormonal contraceptives include progestins.
The impact of professional sports franchises and venues on local economies: A comprehensive survey
Authors: Bradbury John Charles , Coates Dennis , Humphreys Brad R.
Published: September 2022

Local governments routinely subsidize sports stadiums and arenas using the justification that hosting professional franchises produces economic development and social benefits in the community. The prevalence of venue subsidies generated an extensive and vibrant research literature, which spans over 30 years and includes more than 130 studies. We chronicle this body of research from early studies of tangible economic impacts in metropolitan areas, using basic empirical methods, through recent analyses that focus on sublocal and nonpecuniary effects and employ more sophisticated empirical methods. Though findings have become more nuanced, recent analyses continue to confirm the decades‐old consensus of very limited economic impacts of professional sports teams and stadiums. Even with added nonpecuniary social benefits from quality‐of‐life externalities and civic pride, welfare improvements from hosting teams tend to fall well short of covering public outlays. Thus, the large subsidies commonly devoted to constructing professional sports venues are not justified as worthwhile public investments. We also investigate the paradox of local governments continuing to subsidize sports facilities despite overwhelming evidence of their economic impotence. Our analysis informs academic researchers and policymakers to motivate future studies and promote sound policy decisions guided by relevant research findings.
Haematological parameters predicting cardiac involvement in children withCOVID‐19 infection
Authors: Güllü Ufuk U , İpek Sevcan , Güngör Şükrü , Yurttutan Sadık , Demiray Şeyma
Published: September 2022

Aim

Haematological parameters obtained from the full blood count, such as neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), are cost‐effective tests which have been shown to be predictive of the prognosis of many diseases. We aimed to evaluate certain haematological parameters and cardiac biomarkers to test whether they could predict cardiac involvement by COVID‐19 infection.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients aged 1 month to 18 years having a positive COVID‐19 PCR test but no comorbidity, who were admitted to the paediatric emergency department between 15 March 2020 and 1 February 2021.

Results

There were 292 COVID‐19 PCR‐positive patients, 12 MIS‐C patients and 70 healthy controls. A receiver operator characteristic curve analysis was performed to predict MIS‐C in patients with COVID‐19 infection. An NLR value of ≥5.03 could predict MIS‐C with a sensitivity of 66.7% and a specificity of 91.6%; a proBNP value of ≥329.5 ng/L with a sensitivity of 91.7% and a specificity of 95.6%; a CKMB value of ≥2.95 μg/L with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 77.7%; and a troponin‐I value of ≥0.03 μg/L with a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 99.2%. A logistic regression analysis showed that an NLR value of ≥5.03 increased the risk of MIS‐C 19.3 fold; a proBNP value of ≥329.5 ng/L increased the risk 238 fold; and a troponin‐I value of ≥0.03 μg/L increased the risk 60 fold.

Conclusions

At the time of admission, parameters such as proBNP, troponin‐I and NLR can predict the development of MIS‐C in COVID‐19 patients with high sensitivity and specificity.
Insomnia symptoms and risk of bloodstream infections: prospective data from the prospective population‐based Nord‐Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT), Norway
Authors: Thorkildsen Marianne S. , Laugsand Lars E. , Nilsen Tom I. L. , Mohus Randi M. , Høvik Lise H. , Rogne Tormod , Solligård Erik , Damås Jan K. , Gustad Lise T.
Published: September 2022

Previous research suggests decreased immune function and increased risk of infections in individuals with insomnia. We examined the effect of insomnia symptoms on risk of bloodstream infections (BSIs) and BSI‐related mortality in a population‐based prospective study. A total of 53,536 participants in the second Norwegian Nord‐Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT2) (1995–97) were linked to prospective data on clinically relevant BSIs until 2011. In Cox regression, we estimated hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for a first‐time BSI and for BSI‐related mortality (BSI registered ≤30 days prior to death) associated with insomnia symptoms. Compared with participants who reported “no symptoms”, participants reporting having “difficulty initiating sleep” (DIS) often/almost every night had a HR for a first‐time BSI of 1.14 (95% CI 0.96–1.34). Participants reporting “difficulties maintaining sleep” (DMS) often/almost every night had a HR of 1.19 (95% CI 1.01–1.40), whereas those having a feeling of “non‐restorative sleep” once a week or more had a HR of 1.23 (95% CI 1.04–1.46). Participants frequently experiencing all three of the above symptoms had a HR of 1.39 (1.04–1.87), whilst those who had both DIS and DMS had a HR of 1.15 (0.93–1.41) and being troubled by insomnia symptoms to a degree that affected work performance was associated with a HR of 1.41 (95% CI 1.08–1.84). The HRs for BSI‐related mortality suggest an increased risk with increasing insomnia symptoms, but the CIs are wide and inconclusive. We found that frequent insomnia symptoms and insomnia symptoms that affected work performance were associated with a weak positive increased risk of BSI.
Long‐term exposure to air pollution and incident non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and cirrhosis: A cohort study
Authors: Li Fu‐Rong , Liao Jian , Zhu Bin , Li Xia , Cheng Zhiyuan , Jin Cheng , Mo Chunbao , Wu Xianbo , Li Qian , Liang Fengchao
Published: September 2022

Background and aims

Epidemiological evidence regarding the association of air pollution with the risk of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is limited. This study was to examine the associations of long‐term exposure to various air pollutants and overall air pollution with risk of incident NAFLD as well as cirrhosis, a major liver‐related morbidity for NAFLD.

Methods

Included were 456 687 UK residents. Air pollution data included PM2.5, PM2.5–10, PM10, NO2 and NOx. A weighted air pollution score was also generated from PM10 and NOx. Cox proportional hazard models were employed to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

We identified 4978 cases of NAFLD and 1575 cases of incident cirrhosis, over a median follow‐up of 11.9 years. PM2.5, PM10, NO2 and NOx exposures contributed to the excess risk of NAFLD associated with air pollution score; and the corresponding adjusted HRs (95% CI) were 1.10 (1.05, 1.14), 1.14 (1.09, 1.20), 1.19 (1.13, 1.24) and 1.11 (1.07, 1.15), respectively, for each interquartile range increase in the above specific air pollutants. Similar patterns were also indicated for cirrhosis risk. Alcohol consumption was an effect modifier for the association between air pollution score and NAFLD risk, whereas body mass index modified the association for cirrhosis risk.

Conclusion

Long‐term exposure to air pollution was associated with risks of NAFLD and cirrhosis among the UK population.
Ecological variations in adult life table attributes of Aedes aegypti (L.) from the desert and coastal regions of India
Authors: Sharma Gaurav , De Souvik , Mandal Udita , Bhattacherjee Rashmi , Suman Devi Shankar
Published: September 2022

The ecological variation in biological and adult life‐table attributes of two populations of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) from the desert (Jodhpur) and coastal (Kolkata) regions of India are assessed to understand the reproductive and survival strategies. The results showed that females lived longer than males in both strains. The desert strain was more r‐strategist because of its higher intrinsic rate of increase (rm = 0.23), finite rate of increase (λ = 1.25), lower life expectancy of males (7.9 days) and females (14.4 days), mean generation time (T = 19.2 days) and doubling time (DT = 3.0 days). However, there was no difference in net reproductive rate (R0) between the desert and coastal strains. The coastal strain showed a longer female life expectancy (22.0 days) than the desert strain (14.4 days). However, the fecundity (eggs/female/day) was lower in the coastal strain (11.4) than in the desert strain (15.1). Conclusively, the desert (Jodhpur) strain is adapted to a better r‐strategy than the coastal (Kolkata) strain of Ae. aegypti, which might be helpful to flourish in harsh environmental conditions. This study may provide accurate predictions of Ae. aegypti population dynamics for vector management.
Karrikin signaling regulates hypocotyl shade avoidance response by modulating auxin homeostasis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Xu Peipei , Jinbo Hu , Cai Weiming
Published: September 2022

Shade affects all aspects of plant growth and development, including seed germination, hypocotyl elongation, petiole growth, leaf hyponasty, and flowering time. Here, we found that mutations in the key Arabidopsis karrikins signal perception‐associated KARRIKIN INSENSITIVE 2 (KAI2) gene, encoding an α/β‐fold hydrolase, and the MORE AXILLARY GROWTH 2 (MAX2) gene, encoding an F‐box protein, led to greater hypocotyl elongation under shade avoidance conditions.

We further verified that these phenotypes were caused by perception of the endogenous KAI2‐ligands (KLs), and that this phenotype is independent of strigolactone biosynthetic or signaling pathways. Upon perception of a KL, it is probable that the target protein forms a complex with the KAI2/MAX2 proteins, which are degraded through the action of the 26S proteasome.

We demonstrated that SUPPRESSOR OF MAX2‐1 (SMAX1) is the degradation target for the KAI2/MAX2 complex in the context of shade avoidance. KAI2 and MAX2 require SMAX1 to limit the hypocotyl growth associated with shade avoidance. Treatment with l‐kynurenine, an inhibitor of auxin accumulation, partially restored elongation of kai2 mutant hypocotyls under simulated shade. Furthermore, KAI2 is involved in regulating auxin accumulation and polar auxin transport, which may contribute to the hypocotyl shade response.

In addition, SMAX1 gene overexpression promoted the hypocotyl shade response. RNA‐sequencing analysis revealed that SMAX1‐overexpression affected the expression of many auxin homeostasis genes, especially under simulated shade. Altogether, our data support the conclusion that KL signaling regulates shade avoidance by modulating auxin homeostasis in the hypocotyl.
A chitinase CsChi23 promoter polymorphism underlies cucumber resistance against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum
Authors: Bartholomew Ezra S. , Xu Shuo , Zhang Yaqi , Yin Shuai , Feng Zhongxuan , Chen Shuyinq , Sun Lei , Yang Songlin , Wang Ying , Liu Peng , Ren Huazhong , Liu Xingwang
Published: September 2022

Fusarium wilt disease, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum (Foc), leads to widespread yield loss and quality decline in cucumber. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying Foc resistance remain poorly understood.

We report the mapping and functional characterisation of CsChi23, encoding a cucumber class I chitinase with antifungal properties. We assessed sequence variations at CsChi23 and the associated defence response against Foc. We functionally characterised CsChi23 using transgenic assay and expression analysis. The mechanism regulating CsChi23 expression was assessed by genetic and molecular approaches.

CsChi23 was induced by Foc infection, which led to rapid upregulation in resistant cucumber lines. Overexpressing CsChi23 enhanced fusarium wilt resistance and reduced fungal biomass accumulation, whereas silencing CsChi23 causes loss of resistance. CsHB15, a homeodomain leucine zipper (HD‐Zip) III transcription factor, was found to bind to the CsChi23 promoter region and activate its expression. Furthermore, silencing of CsHB15 reduces CsChi23 expression. A single‐nucleotide polymorphism variation −400 bp upstream of CsChi23 abolished the HD‐Zip III binding site in a susceptible cucumber line.

Collectively, our study indicates that CsChi23 is sufficient to enhance fusarium wilt resistance and reveals a novel function of an HD‐Zip III transcription factor in regulating chitinase expression in cucumber defence against fusarium wilt.
The pale spear‐nosed bat: A neuromolecular and transgenic model for vocal learning
Authors: Vernes Sonja C. , Devanna Paolo , Hörpel Stephen Gareth , Alvarez van Tussenbroek Ine , Firzlaff Uwe , Hagoort Peter , Hiller Michael , Hoeksema Nienke , Hughes Graham M. , Lavrichenko Ksenia , Mengede Janine , Morales Ariadna E. , Wiesmann Maximilian
Published: September 2022

Vocal learning, the ability to produce modified vocalizations via learning from acoustic signals, is a key trait in the evolution of speech. While extensively studied in songbirds, mammalian models for vocal learning are rare. Bats present a promising study system given their gregarious natures, small size, and the ability of some species to be maintained in captive colonies. We utilize the pale spear‐nosed bat (Phyllostomus discolor) and report advances in establishing this species as a tractable model for understanding vocal learning. We have taken an interdisciplinary approach, aiming to provide an integrated understanding across genomics (Part I), neurobiology (Part II), and transgenics (Part III). In Part I, we generated new, high‐quality genome annotations of coding genes and noncoding microRNAs to facilitate functional and evolutionary studies. In Part II, we traced connections between auditory‐related brain regions and reported neuroimaging to explore the structure of the brain and gene expression patterns to highlight brain regions. In Part III, we created the first successful transgenic bats by manipulating the expression of FoxP2, a speech‐related gene. These interdisciplinary approaches are facilitating a mechanistic and evolutionary understanding of mammalian vocal learning and can also contribute to other areas of investigation that utilize P. discolor or bats as study species.
Contrasting thermal histories for the Indian passive margins during syn‐ and post‐Gondwana break‐up: Insights from apatite fission‐track thermochronology
Authors: Fonseca Ana , Glorie Stijn , He Zhiyuan , Singh Tejpal , De Grave Johan
Published: September 2022

New and published apatite fission‐track data provides evidence for differential exhumation between the eastern and western passive margins of southern India. The eastern margin records significant Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous rifting‐triggered exhumation in response to Gondwana break‐up and minor Cenozoic cooling. In contrast, Meso–Cenozoic rifting and posterior tectonic events did not deeply exhume the basement of the western margin. The anomalous thick crust of the Western Dharwar Craton might explain why Mesozoic deformation in this area was subdued. In addition, the Cenozoic eastward tilting of the Indian plate and the onset of Bengal Fan sedimentation ca. 23 Ma allowed the accumulation of thick sedimentary sequences in the eastern coastal basins, probably inducing a flexural response of fault reactivation on the eastern margin. More generally, we demonstrate the influence of lithospheric strength and post‐rifting sedimentation to the exhumation history of passive margins.
Vacuolar H+‐ATPase subunit VAB3 regulates cell growth and ion homeostasis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Wenbo , Luo Laifu , Gu Lili , Li Haimin , Zhang Qian , Ye Yajin , Li Laigeng
Published: September 2022

Vacuolar H+‐ATPase (V‐ATPase) has diverse functions related to plant development and growth. It creates the turgor pressure that drives cell growth by generating the energy needed for the active transport of solutes across the tonoplast. V‐ATPase is a large protein complex made up of multiheteromeric subunits, some of which have unknown functions. In this study, a forward genetics‐based strategy was employed to identify the vab3 mutant, which displayed resistance to isoxaben, a cellulose synthase inhibitor that could induce excessive transverse cell expansion. Map‐based cloning and genetic complementary assays demonstrated that V‐ATPase B subunit 3 (VAB3) is associated with the observed insensitivity of the mutant to isoxaben. Analysis of the vab3 mutant revealed defective ionic homeostasis and hypersensitivity to salt stress. Treatment with a V‐ATPase inhibitor exacerbated ionic tolerance and cell elongation defects in the vab3 mutant. Notably, exogenous low‐dose Ca2+ or Na+ could partially restore isoxaben resistance of the vab3 mutant, suggesting a relationship between VAB3‐regulated cell growth and ion homeostasis. Taken together, the results of this study suggest that the V‐ATPase subunit VAB3 is required for cell growth and ion homeostasis in Arabidopsis.