bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of miniature goat cheese produced from Cynara scolymus L. pistil cell suspension culture extracts elicited with melatonin and salicylic acid
Authors: Akçay Ufuk Çelikkol , Çayir Özlem , Şimşek Bedia
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

The present study aimed to evaluate the potential of enzymes produced by artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) flower cell suspension cultures elicited by melatonin (5 μm) and salicylic acid (50 μm) on the production and characteristics of miniature goat cheeses. In this study, five types of fresh miniature goat cheese were produced using whole artichoke flower extract, salicylic acid (50 μm) or melatonin (5 μm) treated artichoke suspension cell culture extracts, a culture extract without elicitor treatment (control) and rennin enzyme.

RESULTS

The milk clotting activity values of the enzymes were measured in the range 0.52–0.74. The effect of the enzymes on the titratable acidity, water‐soluble nitrogen, ripening index, αs‐caseins and β‐caseins of goat cheese was significant (P < 0.05). The highest level of casein degradation was observed in the cheese produced with the enzyme containing melatonin, followed by the cheese produced with the enzyme containing salicylic acid.

CONCLUSION

For the enzymes produced by the suspension cell culture method, the addition of melatonin and salicylic acid had a slightly positive effect on the proteolytic activity of the extracts. It was also found that the enzymes obtained from artichokes by the suspension cell culture method did not achieve successful cheese production in terms of chemical, textural and biochemical aspects compared to those obtained from animal enzymes. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Primary adrenal sarcomas: A national analysis of epidemiological trends, treatment patterns, and outcomes
Authors: Aryal Bibek , Falls Samantha , Yin Yue , Wagner Patrick L. , Bartlett David L. , Wegner Rodney E. , Allen Casey J.
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives

Primary adrenal sarcoma (PAS) is an exceedingly rare malignancy with limited data available on its epidemiology, management, and outcomes. This study aimed to characterize the national incidence, treatment patterns, and survival of PAS utilizing a National Cancer Database.

Methods

The National Cancer Database was queried for patients diagnosed with primary adrenal tumors from 2004 to 2019. Cases with sarcoma histology were identified as PAS. Annual incidence trends, histological distribution, treatment modalities (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy), perioperative outcomes, and overall survival (OS) were analyzed.

Results

Of 7213 primary adrenal tumor cases, 332 (4.6%) were PAS. The most common histological subtypes were leiomyosarcoma (37.3%), hemangiosarcoma (27.1%), and sarcoma not otherwise specified (6.0%). Most cases (71.7%) presented as locoregional disease. Treatment included surgery alone (47.8%), surgery plus chemotherapy and/or radiation (27.1%), chemotherapy/radiation alone (13.3%), or no treatment (13.9%). For surgical cases, the median length of stay was 5 days, the 30‐day readmission rate was 3.36%, and the 30/90‐day mortality rates were 3.65% and 9.90%, respectively. The 5‐year OS rate for surgery alone was 43%, with a median OS of 34.6 months. For surgery with radiation/chemotherapy, the 5‐year OS rate was 37.3%, with a median OS of 35.4 months.

Conclusions

This largest analysis of PAS to date demonstrates that most cases present as locoregional disease amenable to surgical resection, with favorable outcomes. The role of adjuvant therapy remains unclear, as no significant survival difference was observed between surgery alone and multimodal treatment.
Effects of Intrarenal Reflux on Renal Growth in Children With Grades III–V Primary Vesicoureteral Reflux
Authors: Xiuzhen Yang , Zheming Xu , Li Li , Jingjing Wang , Chang Tao , Ran Tao , Jingjing Ye
Published: August 2024

The phenomenon of intrarenal reflux (IRR) has been considered a crucial link between vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and segmental scarring. We conducted a study on renal length in 104 children diagnosed with Grades III–V VUR, with or without IRR, using contrast‐enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS). The patients were divided into two treatment groups: the conservative antibiotic prophylaxis (CAP) group and the operation group, which were further categorized into two subgroups: the IRR group and the non‐IRR group. Our findings revealed an incidence rate of 35.96% (41/114) for IRR occurrence, with 43.42% (33/76) occurring in upper renal segments, 32.89% (25/76) in lower segments, and 23.68% (18/76) in middle segments. In the CAP group where the effects of IRR persisted, the renal growth observed was as follows: IRR group—0.19 ± 0.13 cm; non‐IRR group—0.39 ± 0.23 cm; contralateral negative group—0.66 ± 0.35 cm; control group—0.46 ± 0 .25 cm respectively (P < .05). In the operation group, where the effects of IRR were eliminated, the renal growth for the IRR group, non‐IRR group, contralateral negative group, and control group was 0.46 ± 0.22 cm, 0.54 ± 0.31 cm, 0.67 ± 0 .42 cm, and 0.36 ± 0.17 cm respectively (P < .005). In conclusion, the presence of IRR can impact renal growth in children diagnosed with Grades III–V primary VUR. Following surgical intervention, the IRR kidney does not exhibit catch‐up growth; however, it demonstrates parallel growth alongside the unaffected kidney. Conversely, the non‐IRR kidney experiences catch‐up growth. Therefore, for children presenting with Grades III–V primary VUR combined with IRR, a more aggressive treatment approach such as surgery is recommended.
After 40 days intra‐articular injury, risk profile increases linearly with time to surgery in adolescent patients undergoing primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Phillips Todd , Ronna Brenden , Terner Zach , Cushing Tucker , Goldenberg Neal , Shybut Theodore
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are becoming more common in youth athletes. Time‐to‐surgery has been shown to significantly affect the rates of concurrent injuries at the time of ACL reconstruction (ACLR). The purpose of this study was to evaluate if time‐to‐surgery in ACLR impacts observances of intra‐articular injuries and to categorize injury profile in relation to time.

Methods

An Institutional Review Board‐approved retrospective cohort study was conducted. Included subjects were aged 21 and below and underwent primary ACLR within 6 months of injury between January 2012 and April 2020. Skeletal maturity was determined via imaging. Laterality, location and severity/pattern of meniscal and chondral injuries were recorded. Multivariate logistic regression was utilized to identify risk factors for intra‐articular pathology. Cut‐off analyses were added to regression models to identify trends of concurrent injuries.

Results

Eight hundred and fifty patients met the inclusion criteria. Patients with observed articular cartilage injuries had a significantly longer time‐to‐surgery of 66 days (p = 0.01). Risk factors for chondral injury were time‐to‐surgery (p = 0.01) and skeletal maturity (p = 0.01), while medial meniscal tears were prognosticated by time‐to‐surgery (p = 0.03), skeletal maturity (p = 0.01) and body mass index (p = 0.00). Cut‐off analysis showed that after 40 days the proportion of patients with observed chondral injury increased with time to surgery and that there were significantly different observances of chondral (p = 0.00) and medial meniscal (p = 0.03) injuries in the 6‐week model, as compared to the continuous time model.

Conclusion

Longer time‐to‐surgery in ACLR is associated with higher rates of concomitant intra‐articular pathology, especially chondral injuries. After 40 days, the observed rates of intra‐articular injury increase proportionately with time from injury. A 6‐week categorical model best stratifies intra‐articular injury risk profile. Risk factor analysis identified skeletally mature patients with delayed surgery of >12 weeks to be at the highest risk for both chondral and medial meniscal injuries after an ACLR.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
High incidence of post‐operative re‐sprain following suture tape implantation for anterior talofibular ligament insufficiency and risk factors for post‐operative re‐sprain
Authors: Choi Jun Young , Suh Jin Soo , Park Ju Hwan , Asfaw Tewodros Taye
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) insufficiency encompasses situations in which (i) frequent sprains cause ATFL loss, as evidenced by ATFL non‐visualization on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging; or (ii) minimal healthy ATFL tissue for repair is left after the removal of the large os subfibulare. Suture tape implantation can be indicated for these cases rather than conventional ligament repair. This study was designed to investigate the incidence of post‐operative re‐sprain in patients who underwent suture tape implantation for ATFL insufficiency, and risk factors influencing the occurrence of post‐operative re‐sprain were identified.

Methods

A total of 68 patients who underwent suture tape implantation for ATFL insufficiency from January 2016 to December 2021 were retrospectively evaluated. The minimum follow‐up duration for inclusion was 2 years after surgery. All included patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of post‐operative re‐sprain during the follow‐up period. Multiple clinico‐radiographic parameters were measured, and binary logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors influencing post‐operative re‐sprain.

Results

Post‐operative re‐sprain occurred in 19 of the 68 patients (27.9%), and multiple re‐sprains persisted in 7 patients (10.3%). Post‐operative re‐sprain was more likely to occur in patients who smoked after surgery (odds ratio [OR], 3.510), had generalized ligament laxity (OR, 4.364) and engaged in occupations requiring high physical activity levels (OR, 4.421), including soldiers, professional athletes, student‐athletes and mailmen.

Conclusion

The incidence of multiple post‐operative re‐sprains was high after suture tape implantation for ATFL insufficiency. Caution is particularly warranted in patients with risk factors, necessitating meticulous attention to their care. Careful consideration of strategies to mitigate risks when performing the surgery is also recommended.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Maxillary Antrostomy Versus Complete Sinus Surgery for Odontogenic Sinusitis With Frontal Sinus Extension
Authors: Craig John R. , Saibene Alberto M. , Adappa Nithin D. , Douglas Jennifer E. , Eide Jacob G. , Felisati Giovanni , Kohanski Michael A. , Kshirsagar Rijul S. , Kwiecien Catherine , Lee Daniel , Makary Chadi A. , Palmer James N. , Ray Amrita , Wilson Carl , Kuan Edward C.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is often necessary when managing odontogenic sinusitis (ODS), but ESS extent for ODS with extramaxillary sinus involvement has been incompletely studied. This study compared outcomes after wide maxillary antrostomy (MA) alone versus complete ESS for ODS with frontal sinus involvement.

Methods

A multicenter prospective cohort study was conducted on patients with uncomplicated ODS (no extrasinus spread) who underwent ESS when computed tomography demonstrated maxillary, anterior ethmoid (AE), and frontal sinus opacification. Multiple preoperative and postoperative variables were recorded, including 22‐item sinonasal outcome tests (SNOT‐22) and endoscopic findings. Ultimate SNOT‐22 and endoscopic resolution, and time to SNOT‐22 and endoscopic resolution were compared between patients who underwent MA alone versus “complete” ESS (maxillary, ethmoid, frontal; not sphenoid).

Results

Of 70 patients, mean age was 59.2 years, and 55.7% were male. Thirty‐five underwent MA alone, and 35 had complete ESS. At first postoperative visits (mean 9.3 days), AE sinus purulence was more likely resolved after complete ESS compared with MA (97.1% vs. 71.4%, p = 0.006). However, time to resolution of AE purulence was comparable by 6 weeks postoperatively (p = 0.158). There were no significant differences in times to foul smell resolution and achieving ≥9 point SNOT‐22 reduction (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

For ODS with frontal sinus involvement, MA alone and complete ESS both resulted in rapid and long‐term symptomatic resolution. While ultimate resolution of sinus purulence was equivalent between surgery groups, complete ESS did lead to faster resolution of frontoethmoidal purulence in a significant number of cases.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 135:586–592, 2025
Versatile Functions of Raw and Modified Lentils/Lentil Components in Food Applications: A Review
Authors: Keskin Semin Ozge , Sumnu Gulum
Published: August 2024

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) and lentil components are cost‐effective, sustainable, eco‐friendly, nutritious, and vegan functional ingredients in food formulations. These versatile properties have recently increased the popularity of them among consumers and food manufacturers. Various emerging processing technologies, such as microwave (MW), infrared (IR), high pressure (HP), ultrasound (US), cold plasma (CP), ozone, ionizing irradiation, ultraviolet (UV)‐light, ultrafiltration (UF), and isoelectric precipitation (IEP), have been effectively applied to improve the functional properties of lentils and lentil components, thereby increasing their consumption and utility. This review article focuses on the nutritional, health‐promoting, and technological functions of raw and modified lentils/lentil components in food applications and the effects of emerging technologies on their functionality. Selecting appropriate, sustainable technology and determining optimized process conditions are crucial for producing functional, healthy food from modified lentils that display enhanced consumer acceptability. Recent research indicates that MW, IR, HP, US, MW‐IR, HP‐enzymolysis, UV‐US, and US‐γ‐irradiation technologies have substantial potential for modifying and enhancing the functionality of lentil and lentil components.
Glucagon‐Like Peptide‐1 Receptor Agonists and Risk of Parkinson's Disease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Population‐Based Cohort Study
Authors: Tang Huilin , Lu Ying , Okun Michael S. , Donahoo William T. , Ramirez‐Zamora Adolfo , Wang Fei , Huang Yu , Armstrong Melissa , Svensson Mikael , Virnig Beth A. , DeKosky Steven T. , Bian Jiang , Guo Jingchuan
Published: August 2024

Background

Previous studies have suggested that glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) may have a disease‐modifying effect in the development of Parkinson's disease (PD), but population studies yielded inconsistent results.

Objective

The aim was to compare the risk of PD associated with GLP‐1RAs compared to dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP4i) among older adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

Using U.S. Medicare administrative data from 2016 to 2020, we conducted a population‐based cohort study comparing the new use of GLP‐1RA with the new use of DPP4i among adults aged ≥66 years with T2D. The primary endpoint was a new diagnosis of PD. A stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting (sIPTW)–adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression model was employed to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for PD between GLP‐1RA and DPP4i users.

Results

This study included 89,074 Medicare beneficiaries who initiated either GLP‐1RA (n = 30,091) or DPP4i (n = 58,983). The crude incidence rate of PD was lower among GLP‐1RA users than DPP4i users (2.85 vs. 3.92 patients per 1000 person‐years). An sIPTW‐adjusted Cox model showed that GLP‐1RA users were associated with a 23% lower risk of PD than DPP4i users (HR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.63–0.95). Our findings were largely consistent across different subgroup analyses such as sex, race, and molecular structure of GLP‐1RA.

Conclusion

Among Medicare beneficiaries with T2D, the new use of GLP‐1RAs was significantly associated with a decreased risk of PD compared to the new use of DPP4i. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Internal drivers of the global pandemic of the Omicron variants of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Niu Yilin , Quan Wuxiu , Li Yunyi , Chen Ziying , Gao Yunfei
Published: August 2024

Background

The high transmissibility of the Omicron variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 continues to impose a significant burden on public health systems worldwide. Continuous mutations in the virus challenge the efficacy of vaccines and prior immunity from other variants, posing a severe threat to human health. Therefore, there is an urgent need to predict mutations of the Omicron variants and identify key factors influencing their spread. This study investigated critical amino acid mutations of the Omicron variants using epidemiological data and the mechanisms underlying their transmission. The aim was to understand the key factors driving the spread of the Omicron variants and provide insights for effective control and prevention strategies.

Methods

A total of 488,646 Omicron cases recorded between December 2021 and February 2023 were analyzed using a sliding time window and the Epi Score model, which has high accuracy for the identification of mutation sites. MutPred2, PolyPhen2 and VarSite tools were used to predict future mutations and identify factors driving the prevalence of the Omicron variants.

Results

Epi Scores showed fluctuating patterns at mutation sites, highlighting N969K, Y505H, N764K, T478K, and S371F mutations on the spike protein as significant for future prevention efforts. The spread of the Omicron variants was linked to changes in the viral entry pathway and improved angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) binding and immune evasion tactics.

Conclusions

The findings of this study reveal trends in the evolution of the Omicron variants, including altered cell entry, increased affinity for ACE2, and evasion of the immune system. These factors are critical for understanding the global spread of the Omicron variants and developing effective control strategies.
Genetic testing and new variants in diagnosis of congenital ichthyoses
Authors: Salo Milja , Kimpimäki Teija , Huhtala Heini , Saarela Tanja
Published: August 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate how diagnostic practice in congenital ichthyoses has evolved during the years 2000–2020 and what kind of gene variants of congenital ichthyosis have been found.

Methods

The study cohort of this register‐based research consisted of a total of 88 patients, whose diagnostic testing was conducted, and ichthyosis diagnoses set at the Department of Dermatology and the Department of Clinical Genetics at Tampere University Hospital during the years 2000–2020.

Results

Diagnosis of ichthyosis was confirmed with genetic testing in 33 cases, and with conventional diagnostic methods, such as clinical findings, skin biopsy and family history of ichthyoses, in 55 cases. We observed four novel variants in patients with the clinical diagnoses of congenital ichthyoses.

Conclusion

When genetic testing became available, it was offered primarily to patients with severe forms of ichthyosis. During the study period next‐generation sequencing became the genetic testing method of choice providing new opportunities in diagnostics.
Option pricing in a stochastic delay volatility model
Authors: Guinea Juliá Álvaro , Caro‐Carretero Raquel
Published: August 2024

This work introduces a new stochastic volatility model with delay parameters in the volatility process, extending the Barndorff–Nielsen and Shephard model. It establishes an analytical expression for the log price characteristic function, which can be applied to price European options. Empirical analysis on S&P500 European call options shows that adding delay parameters reduces mean squared error. This is the first instance of providing an analytical formula for the log price characteristic function in a stochastic volatility model with multiple delay parameters. We also provide a Monte Carlo scheme that can be used to simulate the model.
Asymptotic behavior of the two‐phase flow around the planar Couette flow in three‐dimensional space
Authors: Zhang Deyang , Tang Houzhi
Published: August 2024

This paper is concerned with the nonlinear stability of planar Couette flow for the three‐dimensional NS‐NS equations, which are used to model the motion of two‐phase flow. Our result shows that the planar Couette flow is asymptotically stable for the initial perturbations sufficiently small in some Sobolev space if the background velocity and the Reynolds number are sufficiently small. Moreover, it is proved that the solution converges to the stationary state
at an algebraic time decay rate, and we also give the decay rate of the relative velocity.
The relationship between arthritis and nocturia among adults under 60: A cross‐sectional study based on National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Tang Siyuan , Zhang Cunming , Feng Senqiang
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aims to investigate how arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, affects the incidence of nocturia in adults aged 20–59.

Methods

This study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2005 to 2020, involving 18 745 adults aged 20–59. Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, was considered as the exposure factor, with nocturia as the outcome variable. We first compared the baseline characteristics of individuals with and without nocturia. The impact of arthritis on nocturia was assessed using weighted multivariate logistic regression models. To ensure the stability of the results, propensity score matching analysis and subgroup analyses were conducted.

Results

The incidence of nocturia was approximately 22.31%, and the incidence of arthritis was about 15.32% (2871/18 745), with osteoarthritis accounting for 35.49% (1019/2871) and rheumatoid arthritis accounting for 20.20% (580/2871). Adjusted multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the risk of nocturia was increased by arthritis (odds ratio [OR] = 1.45, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28–1.65, p < 0.0001), including osteoarthritis (OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.18–1.78, p < 0.001) and rheumatoid arthritis (OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.14–2.00, p = 0.004). After propensity score matching using nearest neighbor methods at a 1:1 ratio, this relationship still exists. Subgroup analyses showed no significant differences in the interactions between arthritis and the risk of nocturia across various factors, such as age, family income to poverty ratio, education level, body mass index, smoking status, hypertension, and diabetes. However, significant differences were observed across different sex groups and sleep trouble groups.

Conclusions

This study revealed that arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, increased the risk of nocturia in adults under the age of 60.
Event‐triggered optimal control based on prescribed performance for a two‐link robotic manipulator
Authors: Chen Xinying , Su Baili
Published: August 2024

In this article, an event‐triggered optimal control method based on prescribed performance is investigated for a constrained two‐link robotic manipulator system. To satisfy the performance constraints of the system, an equated error model of the dynamics model is established by means of two auxiliary functions and the prescribed performance technique. A predictive controller based on an adaptive event triggering mechanism is obtained by solving a constraint optimization problem for this transformed error model, and the triggering threshold can be adjusted based on real‐time changes of the system. This controller realizes the tracking of the joint angle with the desired angle and meets the prescribed performance conditions. Finally, the control algorithm is shown to be an effective method for improving control performance through numerical simulations and comparison with other prescribed performance functions.
Factors Associated with HPV Vaccination Among Middle‐Aged Adults in the United States
Authors: Gallagher Tyler J. , Chwa Jason , Lin Matthew E. , Kokot Niels C.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To examine prevalence of partial and complete HPV vaccination among middle‐aged adults and factors associated with vaccination status.

Study Design

Nationally representative cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

United States.

Methods

Cohort includes adults aged 30 to 44 years from 2018 to 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey who completed questions about HPV vaccination status. Survey‐weighted multivariable logistic regression was utilized to explore factors associated with partial and complete HPV vaccination status.

Results

In this nationally representative cohort of 26,470 US middle‐aged adults, 15.8% [95% confidence interval [CI]: 15.1%‐16.6%] reported any HPV vaccination, and 6.5% [95% CI: 6.0%‐7.0%] reported complete HPV vaccination. On multivariable regression, younger age, female sex, residence in the West or Northeast, higher educational attainment, unmarried status, having a personal healthcare provider, and gay or lesbian sexual orientation were associated with increased likelihood of vaccination. Race was variably associated with vaccination status. Annual income, insurance status, cancer history, head and neck cancer history, and time of last physician checkup were not associated with HPV vaccination status.

Conclusion

HPV vaccination among middle‐aged adults who were not previously vaccinated should be based on risk for new HPV infection and possible benefits of vaccination. While our analysis shows that consideration of personal factors likely plays a role in HPV vaccination in this cohort, we also find that gaps in vaccination may exist due to other socioeconomic disparities between sexes, educational attainment levels, racial/ethnic groups, geographic regions, and access to a personal healthcare provider. These factors' influence suggests potential room for improved public health measures.
Adapting sigmoid functions for hydrogel swelling curve prediction with neural networks
Authors: Wang Yawen , Ehrenhofer Adrian , Wallmersperger Thomas
Published: August 2024

Stimuli‐responsive hydrogels are representatives of smart materials with enormous swelling capability. The prediction of discrete hydrogel swelling states by artificial neural network based on the processing parameters has been realized in our previous work. In the current study, we explore ways to enhance the prediction capabilities by integrating physical information of the swelling curves to the model: Instead of predicting discrete swelling states, we predict the mathematical parameters of the continuous swelling curve. We therefore assume that the swelling behavior of hydrogels is consistent with a sigmoidal tanh function, based on their physical properties. After predicting the parameters of the sigmoidal function with the trained model, we analyze the prediction accuracy in comparison to the initial discrete prediction. Moreover, the new approach then allows us to physically interpret the different material properties, which denote sensitivity, maximum achievable differential swelling, and the position of the reference point for derivation of a material model.
The relational nature of citizen science
Authors: Moon Katie , Yates Sophie , Callaghan Corey T. , Thompson Maureen
Published: August 2024

Most citizen science research inherently separates the observer (citizen science participant) from the observation (e.g. data point), placing artificial boundaries around what matters and how it comes to matter. We apply three elements of the philosophical framework of agential realism to reveal a more complex picture of how data arise within citizen science programmes, and its meaning to both the practice of science and the citizen science participant: ‘intra‐action’ (all entities have agency and are entangled with one another); ‘material becoming’ (what comes to matter); and ‘responsibility’ (accountability for what comes to matter and what is excluded from mattering).

We draw on a case study of FrogID—an Australia‐wide citizen science program focused on calling frogs, with over 42,000 participants and over 1 million frog records. We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 30 FrogID users, completing two rounds of thematic and relational coding.

Our findings reveal that as a consequence of their recording behaviours, FrogID participants become increasingly entangled with the nocturnal environment, with sound and with their own self. Expanding and reciprocal relationships and experiences shape the nature and frequency of their recordings.

Second, meaning influences what comes to matter (i.e. what is recorded and submitted) for FrogID participants. We reveal meaning related to feedback (recognition and thus reciprocity), others (social networks and participation with family and friends) and the self (physical and mental well‐being and identity formation/becoming). These different forms of meaning influenced engagement with app use.

Third, participants communicated responsibilities related to their involvement in citizen science, including responsibilities to create knowledge (e.g. longitudinal data collection), to conserve (e.g. actively conserving frog, formally committing areas to conservation) and to educate self and others (e.g. skills and competencies required for environmental action).

Synthesis and applications: By recognizing a more comprehensive set of intra‐actions, beyond the observer and the observation, agential realism can reveal when, why and how citizen science observations are made; what observations come to matter and why; and how people can create a more just world. Agential realism can shape how citizen science participation, retention and biodiversity data generation are founded. We propose three opportunities for citizen science programs based on these findings.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
The neglected importance of managing biological invasions for sustainable development
Authors: Lenzner Bernd , García‐Rodríguez Adrián , Colling Gilles , Dullinger Stefan , Fugger Julia , Glaser Michael , Hennenfeind Jennifer H. , Kaplan Ekin , Liu Daijun , Omer Ali , Pauchard Aníbal , Roy Helen E. , Schernhammer Tobias , Schertler Anna , Stoett Peter , Tedeschi Lisa , Vorstenbosch Tom , Wessely Johannes , Essl Franz
Published: August 2024

Biological invasions have substantial and rising social‐ecological impacts threatening human livelihoods and communities and hampering progress towards a just and equitable world.

Currently, biological invasions are not adequately recognised and included in the UN Agenda 2030.

Using a literature review conducted in Web of Science, we highlight the bias in available literature of biological invasions related to the UN Agenda 2030 and its Sustainable Development Goals. We find abundant scientific literature towards environmental and biodiversity related sustainability targets while other especially provisioning targets are less well represented.

Subsequently, we discuss the risks of neglecting biological invasions within sustainable development and how invasive alien species can have changing and adverse effects through time counteracting the intended benefits at the time of introduction.

Finally, we provide key recommendations for action at the international scale to ensure that biological invasions are adequately considered in sustainable development. Those recommendations include (1) acknowledgement of biological invasions as a key threat to sustainable development, (2) a call for stronger multilateral exchange under the umbrella of an adequately financed coordinating body and (3) appropriate implementation and resource provisioning for international monitoring, data infrastructure, data exchange and use of adequate indicators of biological invasions to streamline decision making based on a solid evidence base.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Venous thromboembolism in transgender and gender non‐binary youth is rare and occurs in the setting of secondary risk factors: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Baskaran Charumathi , Roberts Stephanie A. , Barrera Ellis , Pilcher Sarah , Kumar Riten
Published: August 2024

Background

The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) with gender‐affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) in transgender and gender non‐binary (TNB) youth is unclear.

Objective

To identify the rate of VTE in a cohort of TNB youth followed in the transgender health clinic at Boston Children's Hospital, and to investigate the impact of congenital thrombophilia diagnosis on the use of GAHT.

Methods

ICD‐9 and ICD‐10 codes were used to identify eligible individuals, defined as (i) having a diagnosis of gender dysphoria and (ii) venous thromboembolism (VTE). Data were abstracted from a review of medical records. A second data query assessed TNB individuals who had an associated thrombophilia diagnosis.

Results

The primary analysis included 1860 individuals. Total 942 individuals (50.6%) had started GAHT at the time of data analysis. Mean age (±SD) at GAHT initiation was 16.8 (±1.9) years. Five thrombotic events were identified in three (0.13%) individuals, all in the setting of additional VTE risk factors. Only two of five thrombotic events occurred while receiving GAHT. The rate of VTE in the GAHT cohort did not statistically differ from the rate of VTE in the non‐GAHT cohort (0.1% vs. 0.2%, p = .62). Of the 10 individuals diagnosed with a congenital thrombophilia, two transmasculine individuals received prophylactic anticoagulation prior to GAHT. No VTE has been reported to date in this cohort.

Conclusions

In our cohort, VTE was rare in the TNB youth and was not associated with GAHT use. TNB youth with congenital thrombophilia have not developed VTE in the setting of GAHT use to date.
Effects of light regimes on circadian gene co‐expression networks in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Rivière Quentin , Raskin Virginie , de Melo Romário , Boutet Stéphanie , Corso Massimiliano , Defrance Matthieu , Webb Alex A. R. , Verbruggen Nathalie , Anoman Armand D.
Published: August 2024

Light/dark (LD) cycles are responsible for oscillations in gene expression, which modulate several aspects of plant physiology. Those oscillations can persist under constant conditions due to regulation by the circadian oscillator. The response of the transcriptome to light regimes is dynamic and allows plants to adapt rapidly to changing environmental conditions. We compared the transcriptome of Arabidopsis under LD and constant light (LL) for 3 days and identified different gene co‐expression networks in the two light regimes. Our studies yielded unforeseen insights into circadian regulation. Intuitively, we anticipated that gene clusters regulated by the circadian oscillator would display oscillations under LD cycles. However, we found transcripts encoding components of the flavonoid metabolism pathway that were rhythmic in LL but not in LD. We also discovered that the expressions of many stress‐related genes were significantly increased during the dark period in LD relative to the subjective night in LL, whereas the expression of these genes in the light period was similar. The nocturnal pattern of these stress‐related gene expressions suggested a form of “skotoprotection.” The transcriptomics data were made available in a web application named Cyclath, which we believe will be a useful tool to contribute to a better understanding of the impact of light regimes on plants.
A Situational Overview of Prenatal Screening Services in Bhutan
Authors: Dorjey Yeshey , Gyeltshen Tashi , Dorji Thinley , Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo , Mynak Mimi Lhamu , Gyamtsho Sonam , Tshomo Tashi , Dorji Phurb
Published: August 2024

Prenatal genetic testing is to determine the possibility of the fetus having a genetic aberration or birth defect. Prenatal screening consists of serum analytes screening with or without nuchal translucency (NT) scanning or with cell‐free DNA (CfDNA) screening. Prenatal screening is recommended for all pregnant women regardless of the duration of pregnancy and maternal age or baseline risk. It is not advisable to screen with serum analytes and CfDNA concurrently to avoid discordant results. In developed countries, prenatal testing has been a part of routine antenatal care for a long time with adopting newer methods of screening and testing. In Bhutan, since the integration of the Safe Motherhood Program into primary healthcare in 1994, there has been an unprecedented improvement in obstetric care services. Almost all pregnant women attend antenatal and postnatal care, and 98.5% of deliveries are attended by trained health workers. The maternal mortality has reduced to 53 in 2023 from 770 per 100,000 live births in 1984 and the neonatal dealth has reduced to 15.2 per 1000 live births in 2023. However, despite improvements in the care of pregnant women, many babies are detected with congenital anomalies, syndromes, and birth defects during the postnatal period. Bhutan, being an underdeveloped country, could not initiate any form of prenatal testing program except for the anatomical scanning performed at 18–22 weeks of gestation. Early ultrasound dating scans, limited anomaly scanning, and growth scanning are offered to all pregnant women. There is a need to start centralized prenatal testing services in Bhutan to provide a comprehensive package of obstetric care to pregnant women. In addition, legal rights for parents to terminate severely deformed fetuses or severe genetic diseases before 24 weeks of pregnancy need to be established.
If a fish comes out of the river and speaks, we should believe it: South African perspective on fish kills
Authors: Burnett Matthew J. , O'Brien Gordon C. , Blackmore Andrew , Wade Melissa , Downs Colleen T.
Published: August 2024

In South Africa, fish kill events are increasing in frequency because of multiple stressors associated with managing natural resources. Despite the ecosystem services associated with fish, South Africa's progressive legislation towards environmental protection seems to negate the management of fish kills. In this study, we provide an overview of reports and regulations associated with acute pollution spills resulting in fish kill events in South Africa. In addition, we highlight the implication of these using a fish kill event from 2019 on the Msunduzi River, South Africa, as a case study. The fish kill on the Msunduzi River showed a decline in relative abundance by up to 41%, and its ecological condition was already impaired by poor management. The poor condition of the Msunduzi River has jeopardised the recovery of the fish populations, and intervention is needed to restore the fish population that includes species red‐listed as vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. We found that despite the severity of fish kills and the detriment to the fish fauna, including near‐threatened species, there is a general apathy, incapacity and lack of knowledge on managing fish kills in South Africa. In addition, although several legislated Acts have good intentions for protecting nature, they do not align and show that a fish kill is an afterthought rather than a need to prevent. Poor management practices have exacerbated this in an already stressed state from excessive use of environmental water. As a way forward, the alignment of the various Acts associated with various ministerial departments in South Africa is needed so that better protection of the environment may occur. Finally, we argue that the African proverb ‘If the fish comes out of the river to tell you that the crocodile has one eye, you should believe it’ is not considered when managing water resources and that with the present ecological state and water resource use there may be no fish to ‘come out of the water’ warning us that our water is unsafe even for human consumption and use.
Who will be prosocial consumers? The relationship between environmental value and sustainable consumption
Authors: Wong Wong Ming , Wang Yaobin , Su Wunhong
Published: August 2024

This study explores who will be prosocial consumers based on the effect of consumers' environmental value on their sustainable consumption after the COVID‐19 lockdown. The study aims to examine (1) the relationship between environmental value and sustainable consumption and (2) compare the pathways between environmental value and sustainable consumption depending on delivery service usage frequency. This study unitizes Structural Equation Modeling to analyze (1) mediation and (2) multi‐group analysis by SmartPLS. Six hundred thirty‐seven respondents are collected from Mass Rapid Transit and Bangkok Mass Transit System stations in Bangkok and nearby shopping malls using a systematic random sample method. Affective and cognitive sustainable consumption mediates the relationship between consumers' egoistic and biospheric environmental concerns and their conative sustainable consumption. There is no significant difference between groups that utilize fewer or more delivery services on the path between environmental concerns and sustainable consumption. This study demonstrates that prosocial consumers with biospheric environmental concerns must engage in affective and cognitive sustainable consumption to engage in conative sustainable consumption. Prosocial consumers who emphasize the environment and sustainability tend to use delivery services less frequently.
Links between the sustainable development goals: An analysis for Italy
Authors: Markandya Anil , Cavalli Laura , Bhattacharya Arnab , Galinato Gregmar , Farnia Luca
Published: August 2024

The article reviews the links between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), examining how progress in one is related to the others and what factors determine the progress. While most previous work is at the national level, this article focusses at the sub‐national level for one country, namely Italy. After reviewing the evidence from the literature, the paper utilizes an unbalanced panel data collected for Italian provinces, covering the period 2004–2022 and reports descriptive statistics. On the positive side, we see a decline in ambient air pollution, and an increase in indicators of gender equality. There are also big gains in tertiary education and a decline in occupational injuries. These are common to almost all provinces. On the health side, life expectancy has risen across the country. Less positive are the changes in endocrine, metabolic, and nutrition disease rates and in availability of hospital beds. The inter‐province indicator of inequality has also increased. Furthermore, the overall level of inequality has gone up and the difference in inequality between provinces has not fallen. There has been no increase in green spaces or efficiency of courts. There has been progress in poverty reduction but not enough to meet the SDG target by 2030 and regional differences in poverty remain stark. The Italian data are subjected to estimation of causal linkages between indicators using a system of equations. Two‐stage least squares estimation is carried out on the panel data set for provinces in Italy. The empirical modeling finds a positive impact of wealth on life expectancy and of income on poverty. There is an effect of an increase in income on poverty at the sub‐national level. There is also a negative impact of NGOs on land under construction, which is something not observed elsewhere as far as we are aware.
Unraveling the influence of convenience situational factors on e‐waste recycling behaviors: A goal‐framing theory approach
Authors: Puzzo Gabriele , Prati Gabriele
Published: August 2024

The surge in e‐waste production highlights the need to investigate what influences recycling behaviors, ultimately to enhance sustainable management practices. Previous research has explored its psychological antecedents, but there has been limited study on how situational factors of collection centers affect e‐waste recycling behavior. This research investigates how convenience of collection centers (i.e., proximity, availability, and user experience) influences e‐waste recycling behaviors. A survey administered to 700 citizens explores the relationship between convenience and goal‐framing theory components, namely gain, normative, and hedonic goals. Structural equation modeling is employed for analysis. Results reveal that convenience significantly affects e‐waste recycling behaviors through gain (β = −.304, p < .001) and normative goals (β = .154, p < .05), while hedonic goals show no significant association (β = −.064, p > .05). Furthermore, convenience exhibits a direct impact on e‐waste recycling behaviors (β = .166, p < .05). Implications for research and practical strategies for recycling initiatives are discussed. This study adds valuable insights to the existing literature and informs targeted interventions for sustainable e‐waste management.
Simulation of policies to promote pro‐environmental behavior in a dynamic learning model of social networks: Cases of Brazil, the United States, Japan, Germany, China, and India
Authors: Kyoi Shinsuke , Uchiyama Yuta , Mori Koichiro
Published: August 2024

Pro‐environmental behavior does not seem to diffuse sufficiently in Brazil, China, Germany, Japan, India, or the United States. Based on the current distribution of carbon footprints and learning patterns (DeGroot learning, best practice, and free riding) in social networks in the six countries, what will happen to the diffusion of pro‐environmental behaviors in each country? What policy measures will be most effective? This study aims to simulate the diffusion of pro‐environmental behavior and to test the effectiveness of various policy measures in a dynamic social network model in the six countries. The distribution of pro‐environmental behaviors is generated by global gridded carbon footprint data. The distribution of learning patterns in social networks is estimated in each country, using data from the World Values Survey. This study considers three policy measures: increasing the number of people pursuing best pro‐environmental behavior practices (best practice promotion, [BPP]), decreasing the number of free riders (free‐riding reduction, [FRR]), and converting the learning patterns of people with high degrees of centrality into best practice (centrality‐based best practice promotion, [CBPP]). Interesting findings were threefold. First, there are large differences in the estimated degrees of individual pro‐environmental behavior and the proportions of learning patterns in the six countries. Second, FRR and BPP are effective in promoting pro‐environmental behavior, but the choice of FRR or BPP depends on the initial proportion of free riders. Third, CBPP is the most effective policy of the three in all countries. Centrality in social networks must be considered when implementing intervention.