bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A proposed function for the red body ofNannochloropsisin the formation of the recalcitrant cell wall polymer, algaenan
Authors: Gee Christopher W. , Andersen-Ranberg Johan , Rosen Rachel Z. , Jorgens Danielle , Grob Patricia , Holman Hoi-Ying N. , Niyogi Krishna K.
Published: September 2023

Stramenopile algae contribute significantly to global primary productivity, and one class, Eustigmatophyceae, is increasingly studied for applications in high-value lipid production. Yet much about their basic biology remains unknown, including the nature of an enigmatic, pigmented globule found in vegetative cells. Here, we present an in-depth examination of this “red body”, focusing onNannochloropsis oceanica. During the cell cycle, the red body formed adjacent to the plastid, but unexpectedly it was secreted and released with the autosporangial wall following cell division. Shed red bodies contained antioxidant ketocarotenoids, and overexpression of a beta-carotene ketolase resulted in enlarged red bodies. Infrared spectroscopy indicated long-chain, aliphatic lipids in shed red bodies and cell walls, and LC-HRMS detected a C32 alkyl diol, a potential precursor of algaenan, a recalcitrant cell wall polymer. We propose that the red body transports algaenan precursors from plastid to apoplast to be incorporated into daughter cell walls.
p53 dosage impedes KrasG12D- and KrasQ61R-mediated tumorigenesis
Authors: Le Roux Özgün , Everitt Jeffery I. , Counter Christopher M.
Published: September 2023

Mice engineered with G12D versus Q61R mutant of Kras exhibit differences in the number and grade of tumors. Namely, the incidence or grade of oral or forestomach squamous epithelial lesions was more prevalent in the KrasG12Dbackground while hematolymphopoietic disease was more prevalent in the KrasQ61Rbackground. Loss of theTrp53gene encoding p53 enhances the ability of oncogenic Kras to initiate tumorigenesis in carcinogen and genetic models of lung cancer, while an extra copy ofTrp53(Super p53) was recently shown to suppress Kras-induced tumorigenesis in a genetic model of this disease. Given this, we evaluated whether such an extra copy ofTrp53would alter tumorigenesis upon global activation of a modifiedKrasallele engineered with either a G12D or Q61R mutation. We report that an increase in p53 dosage generally reduced tumor number or grade across a number of organs in a manner largely independent of the type of Kras mutation, which was sufficient to extend lifespan in the less aggressive background of aKrasG12Dinitiating mutation.
Basal spot junctions of epithelial tissues respond to morphogenetic forces and regulate Hippo signaling
Authors: Kroeger Benjamin , Manning Samuel A. , Fonseka Yoshana , Oorschot Viola , Crawford Simon A. , Ramm Georg , Harvey Kieran F.
Published: September 2023

Organ size is controlled by numerous factors including mechanical forces, which are mediated in part by the Hippo pathway. In growingDrosophila melanogasterepithelial tissues, cytoskeletal tension influences Hippo signalling by modulating the subcellular localisation of key pathway proteins in different apical domains, namely adherens junctions, the sub-apical region and the medial apical cortex. Here, using both electron and light microscopy, we have discovered the existence of basal spot junctions inD. melanogasterepithelial tissues, and that they respond to morphogenetic forces and also influence Hippo signalling. Like adherens junctions, the Warts kinase is recruited to basal spot junctions via Ajuba and E-cadherin, which prevent Warts activation by segregating it from upstream Hippo pathway proteins. Basal spot junctions are prominent when tissues undergo morphogenesis and are highly sensitive to fluctuations in cytoskeletal tension. Basal spot junctions are distinct from focal adhesions, but the latter profoundly influences the abundance of spot junctions by modulating the basal-medial actomyosin network and tension experienced by spot junctions. Thus, basal spot junctions potentially couple morphogenetic forces to Hippo pathway activity and organ growth.
Revisiting the potency of Tbx2 expression in transforming outer hair cells into inner hair cells at multiple agesin vivo
Authors: Bi Zhenghong , Ren Minhui , Zhang Yu , He Shunji , Song Lei , Li Xiang , Liu Zhiyong
Published: September 2023

The cochlea, the auditory organ, contains two types of sound receptors: inner hair cells (IHCs) and outer hair cells (OHCs). Tbx2 is expressed in IHCs but repressed in OHCs. The neonatal OHCs with Tbx2 misexpression transdifferentiate into IHC-like cells. However, the extent of the switch from OHCs to IHC-like cells and the underlying molecular mechanism remain poorly understood. Furthermore, it is unknown whether Tbx2 can transform fully mature adult OHCs into IHC-like cells. In this study, we employ single-cell transcriptomic analysis, revealing that 85.6% of IHC genes, includingSlc17a8, are upregulated, whereas only 38.6% of OHC genes, includingIkzf2andSlc26a5, are downregulated in neonatal OHCs with Tbx2 misexpression. Thus, our findings suggest that Tbx2 cannot fully reprogram neonatal OHCs into IHCs, contrary to previous assumptions. Consistently, Tbx2 also fails to fully reprogram cochlear progenitors into IHCs. Finally, Ikzf2 restoration alleviates the abnormalities present in the Tbx2+ OHCs, supporting the notion that Ikzf2 repression by Tbx2 contributes to the transdifferentiation of OHCs into IHC-like cells. Overall, our study reevaluates the effects of ectopic Tbx2 expression on OHC lineage development at different stages and provides molecular insights into how Tbx2 disrupts the gene expression profiles of OHCs. This research also lays the groundwork for future studies on OHC regeneration.

Significance Statement

Understanding the molecular and genetic mechanisms that govern the determination and stability of cochlear inner hair cells (IHCs) and outer hair cells (OHCs) would provide valuable insights into regenerating damaged IHCs and OHCs. In this manuscript, we conductin vivoconditional overexpression of Tbx2 in cochlear sensory progenitors, neonatal OHCs and adult OHCs, respectively. Our findings challenge previous assumptions by revealing that Tbx2 expression alone can partially destabilize OHC fates but cannot fully convert OHCs into IHCs. Specifically, we demonstrate that the repression of Ikzf2 expression due to Tbx2 overexpression is one of the key pathways disrupting OHC fate.
Dopamine encoding of novelty facilitates efficient uncertainty-driven exploration
Authors: Wang Yuhao , Lak Armin , Manohar Sanjay G. , Bogacz Rafal
Published: September 2023

When facing an unfamiliar environment, animals need to explore to gain new knowledge about which actions provide reward, but also put the newly acquired knowledge to use as quickly as possible. Optimal reinforcement learning strategies should therefore assess the uncertainties of these action– reward associations and utilise them to inform decision making. We propose a novel model whereby direct and indirect striatal pathways act together to estimate both the mean and variance of reward distributions, and mesolimbic dopaminergic neurons provide transient novelty signals, facilitating effective uncertainty-driven exploration. We utilised electrophysiological recording data to verify our model of the basal ganglia, and we fitted exploration strategies derived from the model to data from behavioural experiments. We also compared the performance of directed exploration strategies inspired by our basal ganglia model with classic variants of upper confidence bound (UCB) strategy in simulation. The exploration strategies inspired by the basal ganglia model performed better than the classic algorithms in simulation in some cases, and we found qualitatively similar results in fitting model to behavioural data compared with the fitting of more idealised normative models with less implementation level detail. Overall, our results suggest that transient dopamine levels in the basal ganglia that encode novelty could contribute to an uncertainty representation which efficiently drives exploration in reinforcement learning.

Author summary

Humans and other animals learn from rewards and losses resulting from their actions to maximise their chances of survival. In many cases, a trial-and-error process is necessary to determine the most rewarding action in a certain context. During this process, determining how much resource should be allocated to acquiring information (“exploration”) and how much should be allocated to utilising the existing information to maximise reward (“exploitation”) is key to the overall effectiveness, i.e., the maximisation of total reward obtained with a certain amount of effort. We propose a theory whereby an area within the mammalian brain called the basal ganglia integrates current knowledge about the mean reward, reward uncertainty and novelty of an action in order to implement an algorithm which optimally allocates resources between exploration and exploitation. We verify our theory using behavioural experiments and electrophysiological recording, and show in simulations that the model also achieves good performance in comparison with established benchmark algorithms.
Effects of sodium intake reduction on blood pressure control in hypertensive patients
Authors: Upadhyay Ronak Brijeshkumar , Panjiyar Binay K , Agarwal Abhimanyu , Patel Dhwani Manishbhai , Ghotra Monica , Husain Mahato Gulam Husain Nabi
Published: September 2023

The primary objective of this research was to delve into the impact of sodium reduction on managing blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. The investigation entailed a thorough examination of pertinent literature, concentrating on experimental inquiries, meta-analyses, and clinical studies spanning the years 2013 to 2022. The focus encompassed an array of scholarly works that go through the intricate link between sodium consumption and the regulation of blood pressure. These diverse studies yielded noteworthy outcomes, consistently portraying a proportional response to salt reduction. Notably, the reduction in sodium intake showcased a significant reduction in blood pressure levels among hypertensive patients. The underpinnings of this phenomenon were scrutinized, encompassing variations in renin, aldosterone, catecholamine, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Furthermore, these studies give the interplay of salt reduction with dietary interventions and the baseline blood pressure, accentuating the potential for custom-tailored methodologies to optimize blood pressure management. In recent times, lifestyle interventions targeting sodium intake have gained escalated consideration, and the effectiveness of these interventions in lowering blood pressure among hypertensive patients has been substantiated through randomized controlled trials. These findings underscore the pivotal role of curtailing sodium intake as a potent strategy for controlling blood pressure effectively in the hypertensive demographic. Nonetheless, further exploration is warranted to delve into prolonged outcomes, refine dietary recommendations, and formulate comprehensive strategies for fine-tuning blood pressure control through judicious sodium reduction.
A machine-learning method for biobank-scale genetic prediction of blood group antigens
Authors: Hyvärinen K , Haimila K , Moslemi C ,   Blood Service Biobank, Olsson ML , Ostrowski SR , Pedersen OB , Erikstrup C , Partanen J , Ritari J
Published: September 2023

Blood transfusion is a life-saving medical procedure performed routinely worldwide. A key element for successful transfusion is compatibility of the patient and donor red blood cell (RBC) antigens. Precise antigen matching reduces the risk for immunization and other adverse transfusion outcomes. RBC antigens are encoded by specific genes, which allows developing computational methods for determining antigens from genomic data.

We describe here a classification method for determining RBC antigens from genotyping array data. Random forest models for 39 RBC antigens in 14 blood group systems and for human platelet antigen (HPA)-1 were trained and tested using genotype and RBC antigen and HPA-1 typing data available for 1,192 blood donors in the Finnish Blood Service Biobank. The algorithm and models were further evaluated using a validation cohort of 111,667 Danish blood donors.

In the Finnish test data set, the median (interquartile range [IQR]) balanced accuracy for 39 models was 99.9 (98.9–100)%. We were able to replicate 34 out of 39 Finnish models in the Danish cohort and the median (IQR) balanced accuracy for classifications was 97.1 (90.1– 99.4)%. When applying models trained with the Danish cohort, the median (IQR) balanced accuracy for the 40 Danish models in the Danish test data set was 99.3 (95.1–99.8)%.

The RBC antigen and HPA-1 prediction models demonstrated high overall accuracies suitable for probabilistic determination of blood groups and HPA-1 at biobank-scale. Furthermore, population-specific training cohort increased the accuracies of the models. This stand-alone and freely available method is applicable for research and screening for antigen-negative blood donors.
GeneSetR: A web server for gene set analysis based on genome-wide Perturb-Seq data
Authors: Kuzu Omer F. , Saatcioglu Fahri
Published: September 2023

Identification of genotype-phenotype relationships is of utmost importance and a core effort in biology. Recent developments in efficient and precise gene targeting approaches coupled to omics methods have significantly improved deciphering of molecular interactions and relationships. However, many single gene perturbations can affect the expression of hundreds of other genes and analysis of the resulting omics-derived gene lists currently remains a significant challenge. Here we present Perturb-Seq based Gene Set Analyzer (GeneSetR), a user-friendly web-server that can analyze user-defined gene lists based on the data from a recently published genome-wide Perturb-Seq study, which targeted 9,866 genes with 11,258 sgRNAs in the K562 cell line. Through this tool, users can cluster gene lists following dimensionality reduction by various algorithms, undertake network analysis from RNA sequencing data, identify key nodes among the submitted genes, perform gene signature analyses, and generate heatmaps based on perturbation or gene expression data. GeneSetR enables researchers to readily identify gene clusters associated with specific phenotypes or biological processes, providing insights into the potential functional roles of these clusters and the role of single genes in them. With robust analysis capabilities, GeneSetR is a powerful resource to facilitate the exploration of genotype-phenotype relationships.
Probing Molecular Diversity and Ultrastructure of Brain Cells with Fluorescent Aptamers
Authors: Lu Xiaotang , Wu Yuelong , Li Peter H. , Fang Tao , Schalek Richard L. , Su Yaxin , Carter Jeffery D. , Gupta Shashi , Jain Viren , Janjic Nebojsa , Lichtman Jeff W.
Published: September 2023

Detergent-free immunolabeling has been proven feasible for correlated light and electron microscopy, but its application is restricted by the availability of suitable affinity reagents. Here we introduce CAptVE, a method using slow off-rate modified aptamers for cell fluorescence labeling on ultrastructurally reconstructable electron micrographs. CAptVE provides labeling for a wide range of biomarkers, offering a pathway to integrate molecular analysis into recent approaches to delineate neural circuits via connectomics.
Synthesis, crystal structure, and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 3-ferrocenyl-1-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
Authors: Joekar Delara , Hiscock Lana K. , Dawe Louise N.
Published: September 2023

A key step towards utilizing polynuclear metal-based systems in magnetic device applications involves the careful design of ligands. This strategic planning aims to produce metal assemblies that exhibit some kind of `switch' mechanism. Towards this end, a ligand that incorporates a redox-active functional group (ferrocene) is reported. This communication presents the multi-step synthesis, characterization (1H and 13C NMR), and structural analysis (single-crystal X-ray diffraction and Hirshfeld surface analysis) of 3-ferrocenyl-1-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine, [Fe(C5H5)(C13H11N4)]. Supramolecular features, including π–π stacking and hydrogen bonding are quantified, while a database search reveals the unique combination of molecular moieties, which offer future opportunities for studies to involve simultaneous Lewis acid and base coordination.
3-Nitrobenzonitrile
Authors: Virant Miha , Siljanovska Ana , Cerkovnik Janez , Lozinšek Matic
Published: September 2023

The crystal structure of 3-nitrobenzonitrile, C7H4N2O2, was elucidated by low-temperature single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The compound crystallizes in the Sohncke space group P21 and features two molecules in the unit cell. Aromatic π–π stacking leads to stacks of molecules in the [100] direction. The absolute structure was established from anomalous dispersion.
From traditional advertising to digital marketing: exploring electronic word of mouth through a theoretical lens in the hospitality and tourism industry
Authors: Jan Amin , Khan Mehmood , Ajmal Mian M. , Patwary Ataul Karim
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Considering the transition of communicational channels from physical to digital spaces, this study aims to provide a theoretical foundation for understanding engagement in electronic word of mouth (eWoM) among managers and customers in the hospitality and tourism industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the four aggregate dimensions, namely, performance expectancy, efforts expectancy, social influence and facilitations condition. Further, this paper uses the 14 second-order themes of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology with a data set that represents elements that can trigger eWoM, both from managers’ and customers’ perspectives. The process of data structuration follows thematic analysis and axial coding techniques.

Findings

The results of this study show that performance expectancy, facilitation conditions, social influence and effort expectancy all trigger positive eWoM generation in the hospitality and tourism industry indicating customers’ and managers’ perspectives.

Originality/value

This novel study provides a theoretical foundation and novel propositions for future research work on the role of novel antecedents that can trigger eWoM in the hospitality and tourism industry. This paper also provides a benchmark for practitioners and policymakers in their strategic decisions-making towards improving business performance through positive eWoM.
Moving into the metaverse: libraries in virtual worlds
Authors: Oladokun Bolaji David , Yahaya Dauda Oseni , Enakrire Rexwhite Tega
Published: September 2023

Purpose

As traditional physical spaces grapple with evolving reading habits and information consumption patterns, the notion of libraries within the metaverse poses intriguing questions about accessibility, knowledge dissemination and the evolving role of librarians. The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of metaverse in virtual libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyzes various literature relating to libraries and the metaverse in the virtual worlds through a review of the literature.

Findings

In the ever-evolving landscape of information and technology, the emergence of libraries in virtual worlds presents a transformative paradigm that brings forth both tremendous advantages and intricate challenges. These advantages are underscored by enhanced accessibility for a global audience, interactive engagements that cater to diverse learning styles and the unprecedented scalability that digital environments provide. Virtual libraries hold the potential to reshape the way people access, share and engage with knowledge, while also fostering a sense of community that transcends geographical boundaries.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the original idea that highlights the importance of metaverse in virtual libraries.
All my rowdy friends: the effect of Super Bowl hosting on audit and financial reporting timeliness
Authors: Crook Matthew D. , Lambert Tamara A. , Walkup Brian R. , Whitworth James D.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact hosting the Super Bowl has on audit completion and financial reporting timeliness for companies headquartered in Super Bowl hosting cities.

Design/methodology/approach

Using 16 years of financial reporting data, this study uses the Super Bowl and related activities, combined with required filings during “busy season,” as a natural experiment to examine how audit firms navigate short-term, exogenously imposed but anticipated, audit team capacity constraints.

Findings

Companies headquartered in a city hosting the Super Bowl, during busy season, have longer audit report lags (by approximately three days, in comparison to non-hosting busy season audits) and less timely securities and exchange commission (SEC) (10-K) filings. The authors find no evidence that Super Bowl hosting affects audit fees or earnings announcement timeliness.

Practical implications

When confronted with anticipated capacity shocks, audit firms take longer to complete the audit, absorbing the financial costs of the delay and maintaining audit quality, resulting in less timely financial reporting.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates the costs of Super Bowl-related inefficiencies and contributes to our understanding of how auditors navigate capacity shocks. This study provides evidence that auditors can effectively manage business risk and continue to facilitate providing timely and accurate information to financial statement users in the face of a capacity shock.
Synthesis of butylated benzo-amino resin by solid formaldehyde one-step-two-stage method and its application in high solid content coatings
Authors: Yang Xingbing , Wang Xinye , Huang Shuang , Liu Xin , Huang Xiang , Lei Ting
Published: September 2023

Purpose

In this study, solid formaldehyde, benzoguanamine and butanol were used to synthesize butylated benzo-amino resin by one-step-two-stage method.

Design/methodology/approach

This research first examined the influence of solid formaldehyde content on the hydroxymethylation phase. Subsequently, the effects of butanol content, etherification time and hydrochloric acid content on the formation of benzo-amino resin during the etherification stage were studied in detail. In addition, the reaction process was further analyzed through interval sampling withdrawing during the hydroxymethylation and etherification stages. Finally, the synthesized benzo-amino resins were used in the production of high solid content polyester and acrylic coatings and the properties of that were also evaluated.

Findings

Based on the experimental findings, the authors have successfully determined the optimal process conditions for the one-step-two-stage method in this study. The hydroxymethylation stage demonstrated the most favorable outcomes at a reaction temperature of 60°C and a pH of 8.5. Similarly, for the etherification stage, the optimal conditions were achieved at a temperature of 45°C and a pH of 4.5. Furthermore, the investigation revealed that a ratio of benzoguanamine to solid formaldehyde to n-butanol, specifically at 1:5.2:15, produced the best results. The performance of the resulting etherified benzo-amino resin was thoroughly evaluated in high solid content coatings, and it exhibited promising characteristics. Notably, there was a significant enhancement in the water resistance, solvent resistance and glossiness of canned iron printing varnish coatings.

Originality/value

Amino resin, a versatile chemical compound widely used in various industries, presents challenges in terms of sustainability and operational efficiency when synthesized using conventional methods, primarily relying on a 37% formaldehyde solution. To address these challenges, the authors propose a novel approach in this study that combines the advantages of the solid formaldehyde with a two-stage catalytic one-step synthesis process. The primary objective of this research is to minimize the environmental impact associated with amino resin synthesis, optimize resource utilization and enhance the economic feasibility for its industrial implementation. By adopting this alternative approach, the authors aim to contribute toward a more sustainable and efficient production of amino resin.
USA–Myanmar relations: democratization and beyond
Authors: Zreik Mohamad
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the USA's policy toward Myanmar or Burma, analyzing the bilateral relationship between the two countries from the pre-colonial period to the present day. It highlights the implications of political shifts in the system of government in Myanmar for the bilateral relationship with the USA, particularly after the 1962 coup and the emergence of rising regional powers like China. The paper also shows how the economic role of Myanmar has increased, leading to more equal relations with the United States of America.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs a qualitative research design, analyzing data from both primary and secondary sources. The methodology includes a literature review and document analysis to gain a comprehensive understanding of the USA–Myanmar bilateral relationship. The research also analyzes political and economic developments in Myanmar and the region, placing the USA policy in a broader context.

Findings

The research finds that the USA has been an influential player in Myanmar's politics and economy. However, with Myanmar's integration into the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative and its accession to Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), its economic role has become more significant, leading to a more balanced relationship with the USA. The paper also shows that the USA's policy toward Myanmar has undergone significant changes, particularly after the 2011 easing of sanctions by former President Barack Obama.

Originality/value

Although many works have traced the history of USA–Myanmar ties, this study provides a fresh perspective by setting past events against the backdrop of contemporary geopolitical upheavals, therefore highlighting the complex evolution of their bilateral dynamics. The paper contributes to the literature on the USA–Myanmar bilateral relationship by providing a comprehensive analysis of the relationship from a historical perspective. The research also adds to the discussion of the implications of political and economic developments in Myanmar for the bilateral relationship with the USA. The findings of this study have important implications for policymakers and scholars interested in the USA's role in Southeast Asia and its relations with rising regional powers like China.
A tool to profile neural, sensory and motor development in children at school entry, identifying possible barriers to learning and emotional well‐being in early childhood
Authors: Hannant Penelope , Gartland Rachael , Eales Helen , Mooncey Sophia
Published: September 2023

The objective of the study was to develop a prototype for an accessible, high quality, cost and time‐effective ‘Development Profiling Tool’ for use in reception classes. This would build a unique picture of every individual child's developmental at the beginning of their educational journey, meaning that interventions for any comparable areas of difficulty could be started early in the child's schooling. In this study, a prototype of the tool was developed and tested for reliability, validity and usability. Through content analysis of a range of screeners and the merging of targeted expertise, a single 54 question observational questionnaire was constructed that incorporated the five developmental domains considered to impact on learning and emotional well‐being: auditory skills; internal senses (proprioception and vestibular input); external senses (auditory, visual and tactile responsivity); fine motor skills and gross motor skills. Thus, the Development Profiling Tool was created.

Key points

For a child to learn successfully a number of developmental building blocks need to be present.

These include effective sensory responsivity and motor coordination.

This study develops a Developmental Profiling Tool to map every child's development at the start of their schooling.

The study also tests the prototype for reliability, validity and usability.
PROPERTY’S SHADOW: Governing Land and Plurality in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Pieterse Marius , Coggin Thomas
Published: September 2023

Property as a legal assemblage works to produce and imagine space according to a dominant set of norms and principles, thereby casting an imagined projection into multiple worlds. This unduly narrows the lens through which governance actors perceive and mediate competing claims to urban space. In this article we engage this feature of property in the context of contestation over urban land in Durban, an intensely plural city of the global South. We focus on three sets of spatial practices that are, in different ways, in tension with municipal governance objectives in Durban to probe how social actors interface with property law through divergent logics and lexicons. We argue that a more hybrid legal conception of property is required to enable just and normatively hybrid governance of these (often competing) claims.
Prediction of labour outcomes using prelabour computerised cardiotocogram and maternal and fetal Doppler indices: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Moungmaithong Sakita , Lam Michelle Sung Nga , Kwan Angel Hoi Wan , Wong Sani Tsz Kei , Tse Ada Wing Ting , Sahota Daljit Singh , Tai Sin Ting Angela , Poon Liona Chiu Yee
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To investigate the association and the potential value of prelabour fetal heart rate short‐term variability (STV) determined by computerised cardiotocography (cCTG) and maternal and fetal Doppler in predicting labour outcomes.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

The Prince of Wales Hospital, a tertiary maternity unit, in Hong Kong SAR.

Population

Women with a term singleton pregnancy in latent phase of labour or before labour induction were recruited during May 2019–November 2021.

Methods

Prelabour ultrasonographic assessment of fetal growth, Doppler velocimetry and prelabour cCTG monitoring including Dawes–Redman CTG analysis were registered shortly before induction of labour or during the latent phase of spontaneous labour.

Main outcome measures

Umbilical cord arterial pH, emergency delivery due to pathological CTG during labour and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)/special care baby unit (SCBU) admission.

Results

Of the 470 pregnant women invited to participate in the study, 440 women provided informed consent and a total of 400 participants were included for further analysis. Thirty‐four (8.5%) participants underwent emergency delivery for pathological CTG during labour. A total of 6 (1.50%) and 148 (37.00%) newborns required NICU and SCBU admission, respectively. Middle cerebral artery pulsatility index (MCA‐PI) and MCA‐PI z‐score were significantly lower in pregnancies that required emergency delivery for pathological CTG during labour compared with those that did not (1.23 [1.07–1.40] versus 1.40 [1.22–1.64], p = 0.002; and 0.55 ± 1.07 vs. 0.12 ± 1.06), p = 0.049]. This study demonstrated a weakly positive correlation between umbilical cord arterial pH and prelabour log10 STV (r = 0.107, p = 0.035) and the regression analyses revealed that the contributing factors for umbilical cord arterial pH were smoking (p = 0.006) and prelabour log10 STV (p = 0.025).

Conclusions

In pregnant women admitted in latent phase of labour or for induction of labour at term, prelabour cCTG STV had a weakly positive association with umbilical cord arterial pH but was not predictive of emergency delivery due to pathological CTG during labour.
Spatial pattern and driving forces of regional water use efficiency: From spatial spillover and heterogeneity perspective
Authors: He Yanhu , Liu Binfen , Gong Zhenjie
Published: September 2023

Water use efficiency (WUE) is critical for conserving water resources and protecting the environment, yet the lack of quantitative analysis of its spatial spillover effects and the spatial heterogeneity of its influencing factors hinders improving and achieving the spatial equilibrium regulation of regional WUE. In the current study, a way is proposed to explore the spatial pattern and driving forces of regional WUE from spatial spillover and heterogeneity perspective, in which the Improved Super‐slack‐based Model is firstly applied to estimate the WUE, and then, the spatial Markov chain and the geographically and temporally weighted regression model were, respectively, used to explore the spatial spillover effects of WUE and reveal the spatial heterogeneity of the driving forces behind the WUE. Guangdong Province, a region with rapidly developing economy and significant uneven development in China, was chosen as a case study. Results show that there is a radial pattern of high WUE in the Pearl River Delta and there are significant spatial spillover effects among cities, the city with higher WUE exerted positive effects on its neighboring city's WUE. The key driving factors of WUE include per capita GDP, per capita water consumption, proportion of secondary and tertiary industry water use, foreign direct investment, and R&D input, with spatial heterogeneity in their influences. Policies such as enhancing public awareness of water saving, increasing the reuse of wastewater in industrial parks, and promoting the inter‐municipal socioeconomic and technological exchanges are recommended to achieve a more coordinated and balanced regional WUE. The results of this study have scientific and practical implications for coordinating regional water resources exploitation and sustainable development.
Bevacizumab reduces peritumoral brain edema in lung cancer brain metastases after radiotherapy
Authors: Hua Yi‐Chun , Gao De‐Zhi , Wang Kuan‐Yu , Ding Xiao‐Sheng , Xu Wei‐Ran , Li Yu‐Bin , Shi Wei‐Wei , Sun Shi‐Bin , Li Xiao‐Yan
Published: September 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of bevacizumab (Bev) in reducing peritumoral brain edema (PTBE) after stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) for lung cancer brain metastases.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 44 patients with lung cancer brain metastases (70 lesions) who were admitted to our oncology and Gamma Knife center from January 2020 to May 2022. All patients received intracranial SRT and had PTBE. Based on treatment with Bev, patients were categorized as SRT + Bev and SRT groups. Follow‐up head magnetic resonance imaging was performed to calculate PTBE and tumor volume changes. The edema index (EI) was used to assess the severity of PTBE. Additionally, the extent of tumor reduction and intracranial progression‐free survival (PFS) were compared between the two groups.

Results

The SRT + Bev group showed a statistically significant difference in EI values before and after radiotherapy (p = 0.0115), with lower values observed after treatment, but there was no difference in the SRT group (p = 0.4008). There was a difference in the distribution of EI grades in the SRT + Bev group (p = 0.0186), with an increased proportion of patients at grades 1–2 after radiotherapy, while there was no difference in the SRT group (p > 0.9999). Both groups demonstrated a significant reduction in tumor volume after radiotherapy (p < 0.05), but there was no difference in tumor volume changes between the two groups (p = 0.4089). There was no difference in intracranial PFS between the two groups (p = 0.1541).

Conclusion

Bevacizumab significantly reduces the severity of PTBE after radiotherapy for lung cancer. However, its impact on tumor volume reduction and intracranial PFS does not reach statistical significance.
The Water‐Exclusion Trap (WET): A 3D printable window trap collector that prevents DNA degradation
Authors: Lee Seunghyun , Seung Jinbae , Yang Yunho , Orr Michael , Lee Minhyeuk , Tak Jun‐Hyung , Vogler Alfried P. , Bai Ming , Lee Seunghwan
Published: September 2023

Sampling is one of the most important and fundamental processes in field biology. Among many sampling methods in entomology, window traps have long been considered one of the most effective and standardized methods. Unfortunately, the DNA quality of samples collected by window traps is typically low due to incursion by water, mainly via rainfall. Water cannot be avoided in long‐term surveys, even with a roof, due to wind and condensation. As we move into the genomics era, this shortfall in DNA quality has become problematic for molecular biomonitoring, and solutions are urgently needed.

In this study, we developed the Water‐Exclusion Trap (WET), a 3D printable long‐term storable bottom collector for window or pitfall traps. The collection medium in WETs does not dilute because water is excluded and evaporation is limited, maximizing DNA preservation.

Our field tests show that the WET outperforms conventional traps in preserving DNA quality. Insect samples preserved in WETs in the field had significantly higher PCR success rates and DNA Integrity Numbers compared to conventional traps.

The WET addresses a critical challenge in the use of window traps, DNA degradation caused by water intrusion, and represents a significant advancement in fieldwork for genomic research in entomology. We provide the 3D printing template of the WET, enabling immediate, free use for all. Furthermore, it can be easily customized for different environments and purposes, and can be adapted to a variety of other traps, including pitfall traps, funnel traps and more.
Deroceras laeve as a potential agricultural pest in Darjeeling Himalayas, India: Palatability and preference of economically important plants
Authors: Gupta Neha Kumari , Paul Pranesh , Aditya Gautam
Published: September 2023

The invasion of the terrestrial ecosystem by gastropods has immense negative impacts on ecosystem functions, health, and agricultural plants. The non‐native slug, Deroceras laeve (O. F. Müller, 1774), a recognised agricultural pest in native and invaded regions, was recently reported from the Darjeeling Himalayas, India. We assessed the plant palatability and preference of D. laeve using selected plants being farmed in Darjeeling Himalayas (basil, cabbage, coriander, lettuce, mint, pumpkin leaf, and spinach) by laboratory‐based choice and non‐choice experiments. Moreover, we evaluated the correlation between different chemical features of the plants with the consumption rate of D. laeve and observed the fecundity of D. laeve reared on different plant diets. The highest consumption rate of D. laeve was observed for pumpkin (12.99 ± 1.33 mg dry mass) and the lowest for mint (1.63 ± 0.13 mg dry mass), with a significant positive correlation between consumption rate and D. laeve body mass (for lettuce: R = .47, p = .0009 and other plant species: R = .52, p = .00004) was observed through the non‐choice experiment. Moreover, the consumption rate of the non‐native slug, D. laeve, was considerably higher than a controphic slug, Meghimatium bilineatum. In the choice experiment, D. laeve preferred lettuce, followed by pumpkin, cabbage, and coriander, even in the presence of detritus and significantly avoided spinach, mint, and basil. The consumption rate of D. laeve had a significant negative correlation with calcium (R = −.49, p = .003) and potassium (R = −.37, p = .03), and a positive correlation was observed for magnesium (R = .37, p = .03). However, no correlation was observed for zinc, silica, total carbohydrate, protein, and phenol content of the leaves. The highest fecundity of D. laeve was observed in the lettuce and cabbage diet, while no eggs were laid on the mint diet. Hence, the consumption of different leaves, irrespective of physical and chemical features (hairiness, amount of silicon, protein, carbohydrate, and phenol), suitable life history traits, and suitable habitats, may facilitate D. laeve as a potential agricultural pest in the Darjeeling Himalayas, India.
Daily‐level simultaneous alcohol and marijuana use and its associations with alcohol use, marijuana use, and negative consequences in a young adult community sample
Authors: Fairlie Anne M. , Calhoun Brian H. , Graupensperger Scott , Patrick Megan E. , Lee Christine M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Simultaneous alcohol and marijuana (SAM) use has been associated with greater alcohol use and consequences at the daily level, but limited research has examined SAM use in relation to marijuana use and its consequences. This study tested daily associations between SAM use and four outcomes: alcohol use (number of drinks), marijuana use (hours high), negative alcohol consequences, and negative marijuana consequences.

Methods

A community sample of young adults [ages 18–25, mean (SD) = 21.61 (2.17) years] with recent alcohol and SAM use was recruited (N = 409; 50.9% female; 48.2% non‐Hispanic/Latinx White). Participants completed a baseline survey and six 2‐week bursts of daily surveys (81.1% of morning surveys completed) and reported on substance use and negative substance‐related consequences. Multilevel modeling was used to test the main aims and to explore each specific consequence.

Results

Among days with any alcohol use, SAM use days were associated with consuming more drinks and experiencing more total negative alcohol‐related consequences than non‐SAM use days. Among days with any marijuana use, SAM use days were associated with more hours being high than non‐SAM use days. Exploratory models showed that SAM use was related to five specific alcohol‐related consequences and two specific marijuana‐related consequences.

Conclusions

These findings build upon prior research by showing that SAM use days are linked to consuming more drinks, reporting more hours being high from marijuana, and experiencing more total alcohol‐related consequences even after controlling for the number of drinks, the number of hours high, any tobacco/nicotine use, and any other substance use. SAM use was also associated with a greater likelihood of experiencing some specific consequences related to alcohol and marijuana. The findings underscore the need for additional research on SAM use and marijuana‐related outcomes.
The activity‐regulated cytoskeleton‐associated protein, Arc, functions in the nucleus accumbens shell to limit multiple triggers of cocaine‐seeking behaviour
Authors: Barry Sarah M. , Barry Gabriella M. , Martinez Dalia , Penrod Rachel D. , Cowan Christopher W.
Published: September 2023

Use of addictive substances like cocaine produces enduring associations between the drug experience and cues in the drug‐taking environment. In individuals with a substance use disorder (SUD) and attempting to remain abstinent, these powerful drug‐cue associations can trigger a return to active drug use, but the molecular mechanisms regulating drug‐cue associations remain poorly understood. The activity‐regulated cytoskeleton‐associated protein (Arc) is induced by cocaine in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), an important brain reward region, but Arc's NAc function in SUD‐related behaviour remains unclear. We show here that cocaine self‐administration (SA) in rats produced a significant upregulation of Arc protein in both the core and shell subregions of the NAc. Subregion‐specific Arc reduction (shRNA) in the medial NAc Shell enhanced both context‐associated and cue‐reinstated cocaine seeking, but without altering the motivation to work for cocaine, the sensitivity to the reinforcing effects of cocaine or the ability of cocaine priming to reinstate drug seeking. In contrast, we observed no effects of Arc knockdown in the NAc core on any aspect of cocaine SA, extinction or reinstated cocaine seeking, suggesting that Arc functions within the medial NAc shell, but not NAc core, to limit the strength of drug‐context and drug‐cue associations that promote cocaine‐seeking behaviour.
What do voters know, and why does it matter? Investigating issue‐specific knowledge and candidate choice in the 2020 U.S. primaries
Authors: Beattie Peter , Milojevich Jovan
Published: September 2023

Are differences in issue‐specific knowledge associated with different candidate preferences, as would be expected if voters are judging candidates and their policy commitments on the basis of essential contextual knowledge they receive from the media? By utilizing a bias‐sensitive method of measuring politically relevant knowledge—on economic, foreign policy, and environmental issues—we were able to identify candidate‐selection effects of policy‐specific information. The study also offers new evidence on how psychological traits affect political thinking within a partisan group, whereas most research has focused on psychological asymmetries across ideological and partisan groups. Based on previous research, we expected Sanders supporters and supporters of other “anti‐establishment” candidates to have less accurate knowledge on these issues than Biden (and other establishment candidate) supporters, as the demographic groups that differentially supported Sanders tend to have lower levels of political knowledge. Instead, Sanders and anti‐establishment candidate supporters were found to be more knowledgeable on these issues. We also found psychological asymmetries among Democrats and Democrat‐leaning Independents, which were associated with candidate preference. Overall, issue‐specific political knowledge was found to be an important predictor of vote choice.
L'offre active de services de santé mentale en français en Ontario et au Manitoba : les rôles clés des instruments et des outils
Authors: Cardinal Linda , de Moissac Danielle , Deschênes‐Thériault Guillaume
Published: September 2023

Sommaire

Cet article présente les données d'un sondage réalisé en 2019 sur la connaissance des gestionnaires et des professionnels œuvrant dans le domaine de la santé mentale en Ontario et au Manitoba de leurs obligations linguistiques et des outils qui favorisent la pratique de l'offre active de services français. L'étude permet de souligner que plus les professionnels et les gestionnaires comprennent leurs obligations, tant en Ontario qu'au Manitoba, plus ils peuvent profiter des outils existants pour s'en acquitter. L'étude montre qu'il existe en effet un lien entre la connaissance des obligations et l'utilisation des outils pour faire de l'offre active de services de santé mentale en français. Elle permet aussi d'insister sur le rôle clé des outils pour faire de l'offre active de services en français.