bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fixing carbon dioxide in situ during ethanol production by formate dehydrogenase
Authors: Du Cong , Li Yimin , he Ying , Su Liming , Wang Huanan , Yuan Wenjie , Bai Fengwu
Published: August 2022

Concerns regarding the increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration has aroused global interest in renewable fuels and conversion of CO2 into chemicals.
Supermassive black holes at high redshift are expected to be obscured by their massive host galaxies’ interstellar medium
Authors: Gilli R. , Norman C. , Calura F. , Vito F. , Decarli R. , Marchesi S. , Iwasawa K. , Comastri A. , Lanzuisi G. , Pozzi F. , D’Amato Q. , Vignali C. , Brusa M. , Mignoli M. , Cox P.
Published: August 2022

We combine results from deep ALMA observations of massive (M* > 1010 M⊙) galaxies at different redshifts to show that the column density of their interstellar medium (ISM) rapidly increases toward early cosmic epochs. Our analysis includes objects from the ASPECS and ALPINE large programs, as well as individual observations ofz ∼ 6 quasar hosts. When accounting for non-detections and correcting for selection effects, we find that the median surface density of the ISM of the massive galaxy population evolves as ∼(1 + z)3.3. This means that the ISM column density toward the nucleus of az > 3 galaxy is typically > 100 times larger than locally, and it may reach values as high as Compton-thick atz ≳ 6. Remarkably, the median ISM column density is on the same order of what is measured from X-ray observations of large active galactic nucleus (AGN) samples already atz ≳ 2. We have developed a simple analytic model for the spatial distribution of ISM clouds within galaxies, and estimate the total covering factor toward active nuclei when obscuration by ISM clouds on the host scale is added to that of parsec-scale circumnuclear material (the so-called torus). The model includes clouds with a distribution of sizes, masses, and surface densities, and also allows for an evolution of the characteristic cloud surface density with redshift, Σc, * ∝ (1 + z)γ. We show that, forγ = 2, such a model successfully reproduces the increase in the obscured AGN fraction with redshift that is commonly observed in deep X-ray surveys, both when different absorption thresholds and AGN luminosities are considered. Our results suggest that 80–90% of supermassive black holes in the early Universe (z > 6 − 8) are hidden to our view, primarily by the ISM in their hosts. We finally discuss the implications of our results and how they can be tested observationally with current and forthcoming facilities (e.g., VLT, E-ELT, ALMA, and JWST) and with next-generation X-ray imaging satellites. By extrapolating the observed X-ray nebulae around local AGN to the environments of supermassive black holes at high redshifts, we find ≲1″ nebulae impose stringent design constraints on the spatial resolution of any future X-ray imaging Great Observatory in the coming decades.
Multi-stage optimal dynamic treatment regimes for survival outcomes with dependent censoring
Authors: Cho Hunyong , Holloway Shannon T , Couper David J , Kosorok Michael R
Published: August 2022

We propose a reinforcement learning method for estimating an optimal dynamic treatment regime for survival outcomes with dependent censoring. The estimator allows the failure time to be conditionally independent of censoring and dependent on the treatment decision times, supports a flexible number of treatment arms and treatment stages, and can maximize either the mean survival time or the survival probability at a certain time-point. The estimator is constructed using generalized random survival forests and can have polynomial rates of convergence. Simulations and analysis of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study data suggest that the new estimator brings higher expected outcomes than existing methods in various settings.
Pre-trained models, data augmentation, and ensemble learning for biomedical information extraction and document classification
Authors: Erdengasileng Arslan , Han Qing , Zhao Tingting , Tian Shubo , Sui Xin , Li Keqiao , Wang Wanjing , Wang Jian , Hu Ting , Pan Feng , Zhang Yuan , Zhang Jinfeng
Published: August 2022

Large volumes of publications are being produced in biomedical sciences nowadays with ever-increasing speed. To deal with the large amount of unstructured text data, effective natural language processing (NLP) methods need to be developed for various tasks such as document classification and information extraction. BioCreative Challenge was established to evaluate the effectiveness of information extraction methods in biomedical domain and facilitate their development as a community-wide effort. In this paper, we summarize our work and what we have learned from the latest round, BioCreative Challenge VII, where we participated in all five tracks. Overall, we found three key components for achieving high performance across a variety of NLP tasks: (1) pre-trained NLP models; (2) data augmentation strategies and (3) ensemble modelling. These three strategies need to be tailored towards the specific tasks at hands to achieve high-performing baseline models, which are usually good enough for practical applications. When further combined with task-specific methods, additional improvements (usually rather small) can be achieved, which might be critical for winning competitions.

Database URL: https://doi.org/10.1093/database/baac066
To Be, or Not to Be … Original Under Copyright Law, That Is (One of) the Main Questions Concerning AI-Produced Works
Authors: Iaia Vincenzo
Published: August 2022

This paper will examine whether different types of AI-produced works, namely AI-assisted, AI-generated, and AI-genassisted works, are able to satisfy the originality requirement, as established within the EU copyright acquis. It will argue that even assuming that the choices of AIs can be deemed free, they could not be considered creative due to the anthropological footprint of copyright law which traditionally covers only human creativity. This implies that copyright protection can be granted only to outputs that display a sufficient level of original human intervention, which is most likely present in AI-assisted works and, depending on the case, in AI-genassisted works, too. The desirability of stretching copyright further to accommodate artificial creativity is also lessened by the risk that it could saturate the creative market due to an overexpansion of monopoly rights. Thus, the copyright solution will be evaluated together with some existing alternative legal tools, such as neighbouring rights, sui generis rights, patents, or even the absence of protection over AI-generated works to preserve a robust public domain.
A case of papillary thyroid carcinoma with renal and pulmonary metastases
Authors: Aoyama Mariko , Inui Tomohiro , Miyamoto Naoki , Sakamoto Shinichi , Inoue Seiya , Fujiwara Satoshi , Goto Masakazu , Toba Hiroaki , Takizawa Hiromitsu
Published: August 2022

Distant metastases derived from papillary carcinoma are generally detected in the lungs and bones. However, renal metastasis is rare. We herein report a case of papillary thyroid carcinoma with renal and pulmonary metastases that had been initially diagnosed as primary renal carcinoma with pulmonary metastases. The lesions showed response to immune checkpoint inhibitors and tyrosine kinase inhibitor but not to radioactive iodine therapy.
Seronegative Mediastinal Coccidioidomycosis as a Novel Presentation of CTPS1 Combined Immunodeficiency
Authors: Krase Ifat Z , Woodward James , Bauer Cindy S , Miller Holly , Sacco Keith
Published: August 2022

Inborn errors of immunity may present with susceptibility to coccidioidomycosis. This is especially so in disorders impairing the interferon-γ and interleukin 12 signaling axis. We describe the first case of cytidine nucleotide triphosphate synthetase 1 (CTPS1) deficiency, a combined immunodeficiency impairing lymphocyte proliferation, presenting with coccidioidomycosis.
From the Ivory Tower to the Courtroom: Cooperative Federalism in the Supreme Court of Canada
Authors: Harding Mark S , Snow Dave
Published: August 2022

This article provides the first exhaustive quantitative account of the Supreme Court of Canada’s use of the term “cooperative federalism.” We find that cooperative federalism has appeared in twenty-four Supreme Court decisions from 1976 to 2019, and that these decisions have been more likely to favor the federal government than the provinces. Moreover, the Court’s use of the term can be divided between two distinct periods. During the formative period (1976–2009), the Court used the term fairly consistently. From 2010 to 2019, the Court has entered a contested period characterized by split decisions in which the Court is divided over differing conceptions of federalism. As cooperative federalism has transformed from a relatively vague concept into a more substantive constitutional principle, fissures over the term’s application have developed. This article shows how scholarly terminology can have an unexpected and even dispositive effect on judicial decisions, which can reflect uncertainty over how judges understand their institutional role.
Variants Of the Selberg Sieve and Almost PrimeK-tuples
Authors: Lewulis Paweł
Published: August 2022

Let $k\geqslant 2$ and $\mathcal{P} (n) = (A_1 n + B_1 ) \cdots (A_k n + B_k)$ where all the $A_i, B_i$ are integers. Suppose that $\mathcal{P} (n)$ has no fixed prime divisors. For each choice of k it is known that there exists an integer ϱk such that $\mathcal{P} (n)$ has at most ϱk prime factors infinitely often. We used a new weighted sieve setup combined with a device called ɛ-trick to improve the possible values of ϱk for $k\geqslant 7$. As a by-product of our approach, we improve the conditional possible values of ϱk for $k\geqslant 4$, assuming the generalized Elliott–Halberstam conjecture.
Data-intensive Innovation and the State: Evidence from AI Firms in China
Authors: Beraja Martin , Yang David Y , Yuchtman Noam
Published: August 2022

Developing artificial intelligence (AI) technology requires data. In many domains, government data far exceed in magnitude and scope data collected by the private sector, and AI firms often gain access to such data when providing services to the state. We argue that such access can stimulate commercial AI innovation in part because data and trained algorithms are shareable across government and commercial uses. We gather comprehensive information on firms and public security procurement contracts in China’s facial recognition AI industry. We quantify the data accessible through contracts by measuring public security agencies’ capacity to collect surveillance video. Using a triple-differences strategy, we find that data-rich contracts, compared to data-scarce ones, lead recipient firms to develop significantly and substantially more commercial AI software. Our analysis suggests a contribution of government data to the rise of China’s facial recognition AI firms, and that states’ data collection and provision policies could shape AI innovation.
THE IMPACT OF THE VITREOMACULAR INTERFACE ON FUNCTIONAL AND ANATOMICAL OUTCOMES IN DIABETIC MACULAR EDEMA TREATED WITH THREE DIFFERENT ANTI-VEGF AGENTS
Authors: Mylonas Georgios , Najeeb Bilal Haj , Goldbach Felix , Deak Gabor G. , Michl Martin , Brugger Jonas , Schmidt-Erfurth Ursula , Gerendas Bianca S.
Published: August 2022

Purpose:

To investigate the impact of baseline vitreomacular interface status on treatment outcomes in patients treated with three different anti–vascular endothelial growth factors for diabetic macular edema.

Methods:

Post hoc analysis from patients enrolled in the DRCR.net Protocol T study. Optical coherence tomography images were analyzed at baseline and at the end of follow-up to identify the presence of complete vitreomacular adhesion, partial vitreomacular adhesion, vitreomacular traction syndrome, and complete posterior vitreous detachment.

Results:

Six hundred and twenty-nine eyes were eligible for the study based on the study criteria. Complete adhesion eyes gained on average +3.7 more ETDRS letters compared with the complete posterior vitreous detachment group at the end of the 12 months follow-up (P < 0.001). Baseline vitreomacular interface status had no significant influence on central subfield thickness at 12 months (P = 0.144). There was no difference between the treatment arms based on effect of baseline vitreomacular interface status on best-corrected visual acuity gain.

Conclusion:

This study provides evidence that vitreomacular interface status affects functional outcomes in diabetic macular edema patients treated with anti–vascular endothelial growth factor injections. The presence of complete or partial vitreomacular adhesion at baseline may be associated with a larger treatment benefit than those with complete posterior vitreous detachment.
PREDICTORS AND IMPORTANCE OF COMPLETE POLYPOIDAL LESION REGRESSION IN THE EVEREST II STUDY
Authors: Tan Colin S. , Gemmy Cheung Chui Ming , Lai Timothy Y.Y. , Pataluskaite Ramune , Margaron Philippe , Lim Tock Han
Published: August 2022

Purpose:

To evaluate the predictors of complete polypoidal lesion regression (CPREG) in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy.

Methods:

Post hoc analysis of EVEREST II—a 24-month, multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trial of 322 patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy, randomized to receive ranibizumab with or without photodynamic therapy. Images of indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) were graded by a central reading center. Multiple logistic regression analysis with significant baseline predictors then was conducted to assess adjusted odds ratios for CPREG at month (M) 12.

Results:

Baseline ICGA characteristics were comparable between the treatment groups. Patients treated with combination therapy had higher odds of achieving CPREG at M12 (adjusted odds ratio = 4.64; 95% confidence interval, 2.85–7.55; P < 0.001) compared with those in the monotherapy group. Absence of polypoidal lesion pulsation on ICGA was also associated with CPREG at M12 (adjusted odds ratio = 2.62; 95% confidence interval, 1.32–5.21; P = 0.006). The presence of CPREG at M3 had higher odds of maintaining CPREG at M12 (adjusted odds ratio = 6.60; 95% confidence interval, 3.77–11.57; P < 0.001) compared with those with persistent polypoidal lesions.

Conclusion:

At M12, treatment with combination therapy was associated with higher probability of achieving CPREG than with ranibizumab monotherapy. The results contribute to the further understanding of the response of polypoidal lesions to treatment.
TRAUMATIC LENS SUBLUXATION FROM PICKLEBALL INJURY: A CASE SERIES
Authors: Huang Harrison , Greven Margaret A.
Published: August 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to describe two cases of traumatic lens subluxation resulting from pickleball injury.

Methods:

This is a case series.

Results:

A 77-year-old man presented with worsening vision and was noted to have subluxation of his intraocular lens 10 days after being struck in the eye with a pickleball. The patient underwent a lens exchange with scleral fixation. A 76-year-old woman presented with blurry vision on the same day as her injury and was noted to have subluxation of her crystalline lens. She also underwent a lens insertion with scleral fixation. However, she experienced additional complications of postoperative cystoid macular edema and traumatic glaucoma.

Conclusion:

We recommend increased use of eye protection in pickleball.
Colonic Castleman Disease on FDG PET/CT
Authors: Li Fanglan , Xiao Liu , Cai Huawei , Li Lin
Published: August 2022

Colonic Castleman disease is very rare. We report FDG PET/CT findings of colonic Castleman disease in a 72-year-old man. On FDG PET/CT, it presented as a colonic soft tissue mass with intense FDG uptake. The final pathology supported a diagnosis of Castleman disease, plasma cell variant. This case hints us, although rare, Castleman disease should be considered as a differential diagnosis when we notice a hypermetabolic colon mass on PET/CT.
Extrauterine Endometrial Stromal Sarcoma Mimicking Colorectal Cancer With Metastases
Authors: Du Bulin , Cui Yan , Ma Yu , Li Yaming , Li Xuena
Published: August 2022

Extrauterine endometrial stromal sarcoma (EESS) is extremely rare, especially with the colorectum involvement. We describe 18F-FDG PET/CT findings of EESS in the sigmoid colon and rectum in a 46-year-old woman who complained diarrhea. 18F-FDG PET/CT revealed multiple hypermetabolic lesions in the abdomen and pelvis, including the sigmoid colon and rectum. Therefore, colorectal cancer with metastases was initially suspected; however, ultimately low-grade EESS was pathologically confirmed. Widespread EESS with intestine involvement revealed by 18F-FDG PET/CT should be carefully distinguished from colorectal cancer with metastases.
The impact of physician-managed distribution of urological catheters on utilization
Authors: Hata Tom , Hanson Jayme
Published: August 2022

Introduction

We examine whether provider-supplied urological catheters result in increased utilization by comparing claims data of providers before and after enrollment in a technology platform that allows them to directly order and manage distribution of prosthetics to patients.

Methods

We analyzed trends in per-provider quantity utilization of urological catheters by examining Medicare Part B claims data for HCPCS codes A4351, A4352, and A4353 (and an additional category, ALL CODES, which summed utilization across all 3 codes) from years 2014 to 2019. We then identified 64 referring providers who both submitted claims in at least one of the above three HCPCS codes in 2019 and transitioned to physician-managed distribution in 2021. Finally, we compared overall and per-beneficiary utilization by these providers between 2019 (traditional referral model) and 2021 (provider-supplied model) for each code category.

Results

We did not detect a significant increase in utilization for any code category. Overall utilization was not significantly different for code groups ALL CODES (p=0.26) and A4352 (p=0.8). Median A4351 utilization per provider decreased by 23% (p=0.01) after providers converted to the provider-supplied model. Correspondingly, median utilization of A4351 per beneficiary decreased by 23% (p=0.08) in the same span.

Conclusions

These findings show that provider-supplied catheter distribution to patients does not lead to increased utilization. In the case of HCPCS code A4351 catheters, physician-managed distribution may reduce wasteful oversupply of units to individual patients, resulting in an overall decrease in utilization.
Effects of Cr stress on bacterial community structure and diversity in rhizosphere soils of Iris pseudacorus
Authors: Wei Zhao , Sixi Zhu , Xiuqing Yang , Guodong Xia , Baichun Wang , Baojing Gu
Published: August 2022

Rhizosphere microorganisms play an important role in improving soil microenvironment, which contributes to plant growth under heavy metal stress. However, the effect of chromium (Cr) on plant rhizosphere bacterial community is still unknown. In this paper, sole-cultivated pattern, two-cultivated pattern and three-cultivated pattern, combined with 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing technology, the effects of Cr stress on bacterial community structure and diversity in rhizosphere soil of Iris Pseudacorus were analyzed. The results showed that under Cr stress, I. Pseudacorus showed good tolerance and enrichment. However, under Cr stress, the Alpha diversity indices (Shannon, Chao and Sobs) of rhizosphere bacterial community decreased by 9.1%, 30.3% and 28.0% on average, respectively. The change of bacterial community was 22.6% due to Cr stress, and the common species of bacterial community decreased by 4.2%. Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, Firmicutes and Gemmatimonadetes accounted for more than 78.2% of the total sequence. With the increase of plant diversity, Bacteroides and Pseudomonas appeared successively, and the abundance of the dominant species increased obviously. Through the symbiotic network diagram, it was found that the synergistic effect between dominant species in two-cultivated pattern was significantly enhanced, and the soil microenvironment was significantly improved. In conclusion, the results of this study will provide a reference for understanding the response of rhizosphere bacterial community to heavy metal Cr and the interaction between wetland plants and rhizosphere bacteria during wetland phytoremediation.

Graphical Abstract
A shift in corporate prioritization of CSR issues
Authors: Smith Katherine Taken , Huang Yu-Shan (Sandy)
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is two-fold: (1) identify shifts in prioritization of corporate social responsibility (CSR) issues and (2) identify the CSR issues in which companies are currently involved, as indicated in their website communications. Corporate communications are also examined for possible variations of CSR focus between manufacturers, retailers and service firms.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to identify the CSR issues in which companies are currently involved and detect any shifts, a content analysis was conducted of the 2021 Fortune 100 company websites, specifically cataloging CSR communications. This data was compared with CSR communications on Fortune 100 company websites in 2015. CSR issues are also examined within each industry categorization: manufacturing, retail and service.

Findings

Findings indicate that companies have reduced the number of CSR issues prioritized in their website communications. In 2015, companies gave prominence to an average of seven CSR issues on their websites, today the average is three CSR issues. Today, the CSR issues prioritized most commonly are diversity and sustainability. However, these issues are prioritized by only half of the companies. Previously, the vast majority of Fortune 100 companies prioritized the same top issues. That is not the case today. This shift may suggest that companies are narrowing their focus to fewer CSR issues, perhaps those that align with company goals.

Originality/value

This study provides information to keep company executives and academicians abreast of prominent CSR issues and terminology found in the marketplace. As executives make choices about committing resources to social issues, knowledge of what the Fortune 100 is doing can help in that decision-making process.
IoT-based multimodal liveness detection using the fusion of ECG and fingerprint
Authors: Gona Anil Kumar , M. Subramoniam
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Biometric scans using fingerprints are widely used for security purposes. Eventually, for authentication purposes, fingerprint scans are not very reliable because they can be faked by obtaining a sample of the fingerprint of the person. There are a few spoof detection techniques available to reduce the incidence of spoofing of the biometric system. Among them, the most commonly used is the binary classification technique that detects real or fake fingerprints based on the fingerprint samples provided during training. However, this technique fails when it is provided with samples formed using other spoofing techniques that are different from the spoofing techniques covered in the training samples. This paper aims to improve the liveness detection accuracy by fusing electrocardiogram (ECG) and fingerprint.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, to avoid this limitation, an efficient liveness detection algorithm is developed using the fusion of ECG signals captured from the fingertips and fingerprint data in Internet of Things (IoT) environment. The ECG signal will ensure the detection of real fingerprint samples from fake ones.

Findings

Single model fingerprint methods have some disadvantages, such as noisy data and position of the fingerprint. To overcome this, fusion of both ECG and fingerprint is done so that the combined data improves the detection accuracy.

Originality/value

System security is improved in this approach, and the fingerprint recognition rate is also improved. IoT-based approach is used in this work to reduce the computation burden of data processing systems.
Fine wine pricing in a small and highly competitive market
Authors: Masset Philippe , Mondoux Alexandre , Weisskopf Jean-Philippe
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to identify the price determinants of fine wines in a small and competitive market. These characteristics are found in many lesser-known wine-producing countries and are often difficult to analyse because of lack of data.

Design/methodology/approach

This study hand-collects and transcribes wine-related data for 149 Swiss wineries and 2,454 individual wines over the period 2014–2018 directly from wine lists provided by wineries. This study uses multivariate ordinary least squares regressions to analyse the relation between wine attributes and prices and to assess the effect of a currency shock caused by the sudden appreciation of the Swiss franc in 2015 as well as a reduction in information asymmetries induced by the novel coverage of Swiss wines by The Wine Advocate.

Findings

Prices mainly depend on collective reputation, production techniques and product positioning. Surprisingly, following a sharp appreciation of the Swiss franc, producers did not reduce prices. The arrival of a highly influential wine expert on the market also had a positive price effect on rated wines and producers. Both hint at wineries attempting to position themselves relative to competitors.

Originality/value

Few studies examine the price drivers in lesser-known wine markets, where competition is fierce. This study’s results show that wine pricing differs from other more famous and larger wine regions. In addition, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is also the first to analyse the impact of a currency shock and a reduction in information asymmetries on wine prices.
A qualitative exploration of the franchise establishment process: a case study analysis of “Moana Pasifika” and “Fijian Drua”
Authors: Davies Joseph , Read Daniel
Published: August 2022

Purpose

League expansion involves a significant investment of time, money and resources. Therefore, ensuring the success of new franchises is imperative to the commercial health of a competition; however, there is an absence of studies examining the establishment process of franchises. In 2020, Super Rugby announced that it would expand in 2022 with the inclusion of two new franchises, Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika. The article explores what implementation challenges Drua and Pasifika faced during franchise establishment.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a qualitative case study methodology, data were collected via newspaper, website and document repository ‘Nexis’, and triangulated against interviews with five expert individuals involved in franchise establishment. Applying mixed-coding, thematic analysis using Redmond's franchise expansion factors framework, six deductive and two inductive themes were generated.

Findings

In accordance with Redmond's franchise expansion factors framework, financial sustainability, competitive balance and labour market challenges were identified as internal challenges, whilst media relationships, market competition and community engagement were highlighted as external challenges. Additionally, two new factors, infrastructure and business operations and youth development, were inductively identified as issues during franchise establishment extending Redmond's model.

Originality/value

The study offers strategic guidance to practitioners on franchise establishment and provides insight into cross-border expansion processes. Theoretically, the research supports and extends the applicability of Redmond's expansion factors framework for future research.
Transcriptional regulation of ergosterol biosynthesis genes in response to iron deficiency
Authors: Jordá Tania , Barba‐Aliaga Marina , Rozès Nicolas , Alepuz Paula , Martínez‐Pastor María Teresa , Puig Sergi
Published: August 2022

Iron participates as an essential cofactor in the biosynthesis of critical cellular components, including DNA, proteins and lipids. The ergosterol biosynthetic pathway, which is an important target of antifungal treatments, depends on iron in four enzymatic steps. Our results in the model yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae show that the expression of ergosterol biosynthesis (ERG) genes is tightly modulated by iron availability probably through the iron‐dependent variation of sterol and heme levels. Whereas the transcription factors Upc2 and Ecm22 are responsible for the activation of ERG genes upon iron deficiency, the heme‐dependent factor Hap1 triggers their Tup1‐mediated transcriptional repression. The combined regulation by both activating and repressing regulatory factors allows for the fine‐tuning of ERG transcript levels along the progress of iron deficiency, avoiding the accumulation of toxic sterol intermediates and enabling efficient adaptation to rapidly changing conditions. The lack of these regulatory factors leads to changes in the yeast sterol profile upon iron‐deficient conditions. Both environmental iron availability and specific regulatory factors should be considered in ergosterol antifungal treatments.
High‐quality genomes reveal significant genetic divergence and cryptic speciation in the model organism Folsomia candida (collembola)
Authors: Luan Yun‐Xia , Cui Yingying , Chen Wan‐Jun , Jin Jian‐Feng , Liu Ai‐Min , Huang Cheng‐Wang , Potapov Mikhail , Bu Yun , Zhan Shuai , Zhang Feng , Li Sheng
Published: August 2022

The collembolan Folsomia candida Willem, 1902, is widely distributed throughout the world and has been frequently used as a test organism in soil ecology and ecotoxicology studies. However, it is questioned as an ideal “standard” because of differences in reproductive modes and cryptic genetic diversity between strains from various geographical origins. In this study, we obtained two high‐quality chromosome‐level genomes of F. candida, for a parthenogenetic strain (named FCDK, 219.08 Mb, 25,139 protein‐coding genes) and a sexual strain (named FCSH, 153.09 Mb, 21,609 protein‐coding genes), reannotated the genome of the parthenogenetic strain reported by Faddeeva‐Vakhrusheva et al. in 2017 (named FCBL, 221.7 Mb, 25,980 protein‐coding genes) and conducted comparative genomic analyses of the three strains. High genome similarities between FCDK and FCBL based on synteny, genome architecture, mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences suggest that they are conspecific. The seven chromosomes of FCDK are each 25%–54% larger than the corresponding chromosomes of FCSH, showing obvious repetitive element expansions and large‐scale inversions and translocations but no whole‐genome duplication. The strain‐specific genes, expanded gene families and genes in nonsyntenic chromosomal regions identified in FCDK are highly related to the broader environmental adaptation of parthenogenetic strains. In addition, FCDK has fewer strain‐specific microRNAs than FCSH, and their mitochondrial and nuclear genes have diverged greatly. In conclusion, FCDK/FCBL and FCSH have accumulated independent genetic changes and evolved into distinct species after 10 million years ago. Our work provides important genomic resources for studying the mechanisms of rapidly cryptic speciation and soil arthropod adaptation to soil ecosystems.
Clinical significance of the combination of preoperative SUVmax and CEA in patients with clinical stage IA lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hashinokuchi Asato , Haratake Naoki , Takenaka Tomoyoshi , Matsudo Kyoto , Nagano Taichi , Watanabe Kenji , Kosai Keisuke , Oku Yuka , Ono Yuki , Takamori Shinkichi , Kohno Mikihiro , Baba Shingo , Ishigami Kousei , Yoshizumi Tomoharu
Published: August 2022

Background

Preoperative maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of 2‐[18F]‐fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose positron emission tomography and serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) have been reported as prognostic factors for lung adenocarcinoma. However, the significance of combined SUVmax and CEA in early‐stage lung adenocarcinoma is not well known.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated the relationship between the combination of SUVmax and CEA and the prognosis of 410 patients with clinical stage IA lung adenocarcinoma who underwent resection. The cutoff values for SUVmax and CEA were determined by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and patients were categorized into high SC (SUVmax and CEA) group (SUVmax ≥2.96 and CEA ≥5.3), moderate SC group (either SUVmax <2.96 and CEA ≥5.3 or SUVmax ≥2.96 and CEA <5.3) and low SC group (SUVmax <2.96 and CEA <5.3).

Results

Kaplan–Meier curve analysis showed that patients with clinical stage IA lung adenocarcinoma in the high SC group had significantly shorter overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) than the other groups (p = 0.011 and p < 0.0001, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that high SC was an independent prognostic factor of OS (p = 0.029) and RFS (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

High values of SUVmax and CEA were associated with poor OS and RFS in patients with stage IA lung adenocarcinoma. Simultaneous evaluation of SUVmax and CEA may be an effective prognostic marker to determine the optimal treatment strategy of early‐stage lung adenocarcinoma.
Gestational diabetes screening from the perspective of consumers: Insights from early in the COVID‐19 pandemic and opportunities to optimise experiences
Authors: Shipton Emma , Meloncelli Nina , D'Emden Michael , McIntyre H. David , Callaway Leonie , Barnett Adrian , de Jersey Susan
Published: August 2022

Background

Consumer perspectives are a cornerstone of value‐based healthcare. Screening and diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) were among many of the rapid changes to health care recommended during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The changes provided a unique opportunity to add information about women's perspectives on the debate on GDM screening.

Aims

The aim of this qualitative study was to explore women's perspectives and understanding of GDM screening and diagnosis comparing the modified COVID‐19 recommendations to standard GDM screening and diagnostic practices.

Methods

Women who had experienced both the standard and modified GDM screening and diagnostic processes were recruited for telephone interviews. Data analysis used inductive reflexive thematic analysis. Online surveys were disseminated to any registrant not included in interviews to provide an opportunity for all interested participants to provide their perspective.

Results

Twenty‐nine telephone interviews were conducted and 19 survey responses were received. Seven themes were determined: (1) information provision from clinicians; (2) acceptability of GDM screening; (3) individualisation of GDM screening methods; (4) safety nets to avoid a missed diagnosis; (5) informed decision making; (6) women want information and evidence; and (7) preferred GDM screening methods for the future.

Conclusions

Overall, women preferred the modified GDM screening recommendations put in place due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, their preference was influenced by their prior screening experience and perception of personal risk profile. Women expressed a strong need for clear communication from health professionals and the opportunity to be active participants in decision making.
Using cinema voice to promote positive intimate relationships among European youth: The Lights4Violence Project
Authors: Neves Sofia , Ieracitano Francesca , Topa Joana , Silva Estefânia , Blanes Maria Carmen Davó , Costa Dália , Mocanu Veronica , Gotcã Ioan , Vives‐Cases Carmen
Published: August 2022

The paper explores the content of 61 video capsules, presenting stories about unhealthy relationships invented, performed and filmed by 534 adolescents, from Spain, Portugal, Romania and Italy. The purpose is to analyse, through a thematic analysis of the video capsules, youth perspectives on what factors, myths and beliefs turn healthy relationships into unhealthy relationships, and what positive assets are managed to solve them. The results show common youth's perspectives on the idealization of romantic love, based on gender stereotypes, identified as a common characteristic of unhealthy relationships. Individuality is misinterpreted as a threat to the stability of dating relationships. Positive assets used by victims to face dating violence (DV) are assertiveness, communication abilities and management of emotions, whereas offenders used assertiveness, empathy and critical thinking. The paper debates the efficacy of intervention programs combining youth positive development and DV prevention approaches based on filmmaking.
Echocardiographic assessment of cardiovascular function and clinical outcomes in liver transplant recipients
Authors: Lim Wen Hui , Chew Nicholas WS , Quek Jingxuan , Ng Cheng Han , Tan Darren Jun Hao , Xiao Jieling , Nah Benjamin , Lee Guan Huei , Huang Daniel Q. , Tan Eunice Xiang Xuan , Muthiah Mark D.
Published: August 2022

Background & Aims

Cardiovascular disease contributes to a high rate of morbidity and mortality after liver transplantation (LT). However, the progression of cardiac function and cardiac remodeling in LT recipients remains poorly understood. This study sought to evaluate the progression of cardiac function and structure in LT recipients and identify independent predictors of prognosis using echocardiography.

Methods

From 2009 to 2019, 178 adult LT recipients at a tertiary academic transplant center were retrospectively studied. Transthoracic echocardiograms 1‐year pre‐ and post‐LT were assessed. Primary outcomes were progression of systolic and diastolic function. Secondary outcomes included left ventricular remodeling, all‐cause mortality, and heart failure readmission post‐LT. Subgroup analyzes were performed for etiology of native liver disease. A multivariable model was constructed to examine independent predictors of outcomes.

Results

Systolic function significantly worsened, with reduction in stroke volume (45–37 ml/m2,p < .001), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (65%–62%,p < .001) and cardiac index (3.00–2.60 L/min/m2,p < .001). Conversely, there were significant improvements in diastolic indices, including tricuspid regurgitation Vmax(228–215 cm/s,p = .017), left atrial volume index (LAVI) (32–26 ml/m2,p < .001) and right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) (31–28 mmHg,p = .001). Additionally, patients had increased relative wall thickness (RWT) (p < .001) and decreased left ventricular end‐diastolic dimension/body surface area (p < .001) post‐LT. The independent predictors for all‐cause mortality and heart failure were increased pre‐LT mitral annular early diastolic velocity (HR 1.11, CI 1.02–1.22,p = .018), LAVI (HR 1.06, CI 1.02–1.11,p = .007) and decreased LVEF (HR .89, CI .82–.97,p = .006). The effect of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis on cardiovascular outcomes post‐LT was largely comparable to that of Hepatitis B.

Conclusion

This study showed reduced systolic and improved diastolic function in LT recipients and highlighted the utility of pre‐LT echocardiogram in the prognostication and risk stratification of LT candidates.
Prevalence and risk factors of cognitive frailty in community‐dwelling older adults with diabetes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lyu Qiong , Guan Chi‐Xun , Kong Ling‐Na , Zhu Jia‐Lu
Published: August 2022

Aims

Cognitive frailty can increase the risk of adverse health outcomes in older adults. Estimates of the prevalence of cognitive frailty among older adults with diabetes varied widely in literature. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis to assess the pooled prevalence of cognitive frailty and risk factors in community‐dwelling older adults with diabetes, providing evidence for healthcare professionals to better understand the status of cognitive frailty and help develop effective interventions.

Methods

Databases of PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health, Proquest, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and China Biology Medicine were searched from inception to February 10th, 2022. The reviewers independently selected studies, extracted data and assessed the quality of studies. Pooled prevalence of cognitive frailty and risk factors were estimated. Subgroup analysis, meta‐regression analysis, sensitivity analysis and publication bias were also conducted.

Results

A total of 15 studies with 6391 participants were included in this review. The pooled prevalence of cognitive frailty was 11% (95%CI = 7.9–14%) in community‐dwelling older adults with diabetes. Pooled estimates showed that increasing age, higher level of HbA1c, shorter night sleep duration and depression were risk factors, and regular exercise was the protective factor of cognitive frailty in community‐dwelling older adults with diabetes.

Conclusion

Cognitive frailty was common in community‐dwelling older adults with diabetes. Routine screening of cognitive frailty and effective interventions should be implemented for this population in community settings.

Registration

PROSPERO ID CRD42021276973.
Stratigraphic reconstruction of the lower–middle Miocene Goto Group, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Kiyokawa Shoichi , Yasunaga Masaru , Hasegawa Takanori , Yamamoto Ayako , Kaneko Daisaku , Ikebata Yuta , Hasebe Noriko , Tsutsumi Yukiyasu , Takehara Mami , Horie Kenji
Published: August 2022

The Goto Islands are located at the westernmost tip of the Japan archipelago, and preserve a lower–middle Miocene sedimentary sequence deposited during rifting of the continental margin and opening of the Sea of Japan. The stratigraphy of the Goto Group and new K–Ar, fission‐track, and U–Pb age data were used to determine the initial conditions of rifting in southwest Japan. The thickness of the Goto Group is 2000–3000 m. The lower unit (ca. 22–17.6 Ma) consists of thick, greenish, volcaniclastic rocks with basaltic volcanic material, representing the initial stages of continental rifting. The middle unit (ca. −17.6 Ma) consists of alternating sandstones and shales deposited in lacustrine and meandering fluvial environments in a syn‐rift sedimentary basin during a period of volcanic activity. The upper unit (ca. 17.6–16.8 Ma) consists of thick sandstones of fluvial–deltaic facies that were deposited during rapid subsidence at the continental margin. This unit was deposited by a large fluvial system that flowed into the Sea of Japan. These sequences contain relatively cooler to warmer flora (Daijima‐type) and record the warm period of the Miocene Climatic Optimum. The Goto felsic volcanic rocks (16.8 ~ 15.4 Ma) unconformably overlie the Goto Group, and granitic magmatism (ca. 16–14.5 Ma) occurred after sedimentation of the Goto Group. The widespread lacustrine, meandering–braided fluvial, and vast deltaic systems of the Goto Group, and felsic volcanism, were formed due to rapid subsidence that produced a horst‐and‐graben basin during the early stages of rifting of a volcanic arc along the eastern margin of Eurasia. These events occurred from 22.0 to 16.8 Ma before and during the formation of the Sea of Japan.
Cryptic genetic divergence of the red dwarf rasbora,Microrasbora rubescens, in and around Inle Lake: implications for the origin of endemicity in the ancient lake in Myanmar
Authors: Fuke Yusuke , Kano Yuichi , Tun Sein , Yun LKC , Win Seint Seint , Watanabe Katsutoshi
Published: August 2022

Inle Lake, an ancient lake located in the Shan Plateau of Myanmar, is a biogeographically attractive region with high fish endemism. Some endemic species inhabit the lake as well as the surrounding areas. The genetic and ecological relationships between populations in the lake and surrounding areas provide important insights into the process underlying ichthyofaunal formation in Inle Lake. In this study, the authors focused on red dwarf rasboraMicrorasbora rubescens, an endemic genus and species in this region, and estimated its population structure and evolutionary scenario based on genome‐wide polymorphism, mtDNA and geometric morphometric analyses using samples from Inle Lake and three areas surrounding the lake. The results showed thatM. rubescenscomprises at least three genetically divergent lineages (Inle, Heho and Hopong) with distinct geographic structures consistent with nuclear and mtDNA data. In contrast, there was no clear regional differentiation in morphology. The divergence time estimation based on mtDNA suggests that the Hopong lineage diverged at 2.7 Ma and the Inle and Heho lineages diverged at 1.9 Ma – consistent with the nuclear DNA results. The deep divergence observed in the endemic species supports the ancient history of ichthyofaunal development in this region. The distinct regional differentiation and morphological conservatism of this species might have been shaped by niche conservatism in stagnant water environments that limit dispersal and morphological diversification. Future comprehensive genetic and morphological analyses and comparisons for other native species should reveal the geographic and ecological processes that shaped the ichthyofauna in this region.
Further spread of perch rhabdovirus on European percid farms
Authors: Pallandre Laurane , Schmidt‐Posthaus Heike , Pozet Françoise , Rupp Mélanie , Cristina Elodie , Bigarré Laurent
Published: August 2022

Variants of perch rhabdovirus (PRV) circulate across European percid farms via the fish trade. To trace their circulation, they are usually isolated by cell culture and subsequently identified genetically by sequencing partial or complete genes. Here, a newly developed nested PCR‐based method was used to amplify and sequence the complete N and P genes directly from clinical samples obtained during an outbreak on a farm as well as from four batches of fish sampled from two other farms in another country. In an attempt to trace the origin of the five detected viruses, their N and P sequences were concatenated and compared with related viruses. One virus found in pike‐perch was highly related to a virus isolated in 2016 in Belgium. Two other viruses detected on a single farm were distinct from one another, with one being almost identical to another virus isolated in 2016 in Belgium and the other being more closely related to a subgroup with different origins, France and Belgium. Two other viruses found in perch from a third farm were identical and were more related to a subgroup of viruses isolated in France. Identifying variants by a direct PCR approach will help to prevent further dissemination in farms.
A Mediterranean and low‐fat dietary intervention in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease patients: Exploring participant experience and perceptions about dietary change
Authors: George Elena S. , Forsyth Adrienne K. , Reddy Anjana , Itsiopoulos Catherine , Roberts Stuart K. , Nicoll Amanda J. , Ryan Marno C. , Tierney Audrey C.
Published: August 2022

Background

A Mediterranean diet (MD) appears to be beneficial in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients in Mediterranean countries; however, the acceptability of a MD in non‐Mediterranean populations has not been thoroughly explored. The present study aimed to explore the acceptability through understanding the barriers and enablers of the MD and low‐fat diet (LFD) interventions as perceived by participating Australian adults from multicultural backgrounds with NAFLD.

Methods

Semi‐structured telephone interviews were performed with 23 NAFLD trial participants at the end of a 12‐week dietary intervention in a multicentre, parallel, randomised clinical trial. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Participants reported that they enjoyed taking part in the MD and LFD interventions and perceived that they had positive health benefits from their participation. Compared with the LFD, the MD group placed greater emphasis on enjoyment and intention to maintain dietary changes. Novelty, convenience and the ability to swap food/meals were key enablers for the successful implementation for both of the dietary interventions. Flavour and enjoyment of food, expressed more prominently by MD intervention participants, were fundamental components of the diets with regard to reported adherence and intention to maintain dietary change.

Conclusions

Participants randomised to the MD reported greater acceptability of the diet than those randomised to the LFD, predominantly related to perceived novelty and palatability of the diet.