bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
122 Human biomonitoring for firefighters after exposure to acrylonitrile
Authors: Bäcker Sandra , Webendörfer Stefan , Van Bortel Gert , Bader Michael
Published: June 2024

Human biomonitoring (HBM) can be used to investigate exposure to hazardous substances after short-term exposure or accidental events. The comparison with occupational and environmental medical assessment values allows an evaluation of hazardous substance intake and reliable risk communication.

This presentation describes the results of a biomonitoring program after an operation of a professional fire brigade on a chemical site triggered by a container reaction with fire and leakage of acrylonitrile. After the operation and on the following day, urine samples of the firefighters were collected for HBM. The samples were analyzed for the acrylonitrile metabolite cyanoethyl mercapturic acid (CEMA, limit of determination: 1 µg/L).

In total, 55 samples (urinary creatinine 0.3 – 3.0 g/L) were collected and categorized into “operation day” (n = 38) and “following day” (n = 17). Further subdivision was made into non-smokers’ and smokers’ samples. On operation day, CEMA concentrations above the reference value (15 µg/g creatinine, Biological Reference Value, MAK Commission) were found in 32 % of the non-smokers’ samples (max. 357 µg/g creatinine). The maximum CEMA concentration was 648 µg/g creatinine, found in a smoker’s sample. Highest CEMA concentrations occurred in connection with the post-operation “fire watch”. Following-day samples showed a decrease in acrylonitrile exposure in both non-smokers and smokers.

Based on the HBM results, low to moderate exposure to acrylonitrile during the operation can be assumed. In non-smokers, CEMA concentrations at the level of typical acrylonitrile exposures of tobacco smokers were observed. Special attention should be paid to the exposure protection during fire watches.
320 An evaluation of the heavy metal content in inhalable and small PM broiler house sample fractions of broiler house dust in Dinokeng, South Africa
Authors: van Rensburg Shana Jansen , Claassen Nico
Published: June 2024

Studies indicated that settled broiler house dust and used broiler house floor bedding contains heavy metals which are considered to have high toxicity. Current literature does not indicate if heavy metals are present in airborne broiler house dust. Inhalable and small PM broiler house airborne dust was collected in a broiler house to determine if heavy metals are present.NIOSH method 7300 was used to determine particulate matter larger than 7 μm and smaller than 7 μm inside the broiler house and the particulate matter larger than 7 μm outside the broiler house on day 0 (background), 20 and 40. The duration of sampling was eight, seven and three hours for day 0, 20 and 40 respectively. Bulk samples of the chicken feed, sawdust, clean and used floor bedding were also collected.SEM-EDX analysis was done with a Thermo Scientific Phenom XL G2 Desktop SEM to determine elemental composition of the PM and bulk samples collected.The broiler house PM contains cadmium and chromium in atomic concentrations of more than 10%, and manganese, nickel, arsenic, selenium, and mercury in atomic concentrations of less than 10%. The atomic concentrations of cadmium are most likely due to the processing and production of the chicken feed. The origins of the atomic concentrations of chromium could not be identified.The unique method used to identify heavy metals highlighted that other variables besides the amount of inhalable and respirable broiler house dust needs to be considered during an occupational health risk assessment of broiler house workers.
The Role of Nasal Fat Preservation in Upper Lid Surgery and Assessment With the Face-Q Questionnaire: Innovations in Upper Blepharoplasty
Authors: Nicodemi Ezio Maria , Taraschi Federico
Published: June 2024

Background

Upper blepharoplasty is a common procedure in aesthetic plastic surgery. Numerous techniques focus on removing excessive tissues, including skin, muscle, and fat. However, aging insights suggest tissues mainly undergo depletion rather than increase. Removing significant eyelid fat tissue can boost aesthetics but might result in a gaunt appearance with a recessed superior sulcus. Adjusting this can be achieved by moving a prominent nasal fat pad to the eyelid's center.

Objectives

We introduce a new surgical method combining the removal of excess skin, minimal resection of the orbicularis muscle, and redistribution of the orbital bags while preserving nasal fat. This method involves minimal detachment, with the medial bag anchored centrally.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study on 11 patients eligible for this surgical technique between 2019 and 2023 who underwent preservation upper blepharoplasty. The Face-Q Upper Lid questionnaire was administered both before and 6 months postoperation, with the Face-Q Outcome assessed 6 months after the surgical procedure.

Results

All participants were females aged between 43 and 68 years. Fat necrosis was absent in all cases. The volume augmentation remained consistent over an average follow-up of 1 year. We recorded zero complications. There was an increase of 25 points in the Face-Q Upper Eyelids score between the preoperative and postoperative stages. The average score for Face-Q Outcome stood at 81.7.

Conclusions

Our preservation blepharoplasty approach reliably achieves upper lateral eyelid fullness, offering a naturally rejuvenated appearance.

Level of Evidence: 5
Rapid eDNA survey reveals a unique biodiversity hotspot: The Corubal River, West Africa
Authors: Lopes-Lima Manuel , Prié Vincent , Camará Mutaro , Ceríaco Luis M P , Fernandes Vasco , Ferreira Sónia , Gonçalves Duarte V , Lecoq Miguel , Martins Filipa M S , Parrinha Diogo , de Barros Aissa Regalla , Valentini Alice , Veríssimo Joana , Palma Luís , Beja Pedro
Published: June 2024

The Corubal (Guinea-Bissau) is a wild but underexplored river in West Africa. This study underscores the potential of environmental DNA (eDNA) surveys to fill biodiversity knowledge gaps in the region. We filtered large water volumes at 11 sites along the watershed, amplified multiple molecular markers, and performed high PCR (polymerase chain reaction) replication and in-depth sequencing. We recorded 2589 amplicon sequence variants, with accumulation curves indicating the need for additional sampling to achieve a thorough survey. The taxonomic assignments were constrained by the scarcity of genomic resources. We recorded 125 species of aquatic and terrestrial vertebrates, including 21 new to the country, predominantly fish (61.9%). Surprisingly, crocodiles were not detected, despite their known presence. There were 11 imperiled species, two of which are Critically Endangered (Western chimpanzee and the mussel Pleiodon ovatus). Our findings support the conservation importance of the Corubal, provide a baseline for future monitoring, and highlight the challenges and opportunities of eDNA surveys in remote tropical rivers.
Soluble suppression of tumourigenicity 2 as a predictor of postoperative hepatic failure
Authors: Wu Jing , Apaer Shadike , Fulati Xiapukaiti , Vuitton Dominique A , Zhang Yunfei , Payiziwula Jiangduosi , Anweier Nuerzhatijiang , Li Tao , Tuerxun Kahaer , Aji Tuerganaili , Zhao Jinming , Shao Yingmei , Tuxun Tuerhongjiang , Wen Hao
Published: June 2024

Background

Posthepatectomy liver failure remains a potentially life-threatening complication after hepatectomy. Soluble suppression of tumourigenicity 2 is an injury-related biomarker. The aim of the study was to assess soluble suppression of tumourigenicity 2 elevation after hepatectomy and whether it can predict posthepatectomy liver failure.

Methods

This was a single-centre retrospective study including all patients who underwent a liver resection between 2015 and 2019. Plasma concentrations of soluble suppression of tumourigenicity 2 were measured before surgery and at postoperative days 1, 2, 5 and 7. Posthepatectomy liver failure was defined according to the International Study Group of Liver Surgery and the morbidity rate was graded according to the Clavien–Dindo classification.

Results

A total of 173 patients were included (75 underwent major and 98 minor resection); plasma levels of soluble suppression of tumourigenicity 2 increased from 43.42 (range 18.69–119.96) pg/ml to 2622.23 (range 1354.18–4178.27) pg/ml on postoperative day 1 (P < 0.001). Postoperative day 1 soluble suppression of tumourigenicity 2 concentration accurately predicted posthepatectomy liver failure ≥ grade B (area under curve = 0.916, P < 0.001) and its outstanding performance was not affected by underlying disease, liver pathological status and extent of resection. The cut-off value, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of postoperative day 1 soluble suppression of tumourigenicity 2 in predicting posthepatectomy liver failure ≥ grade B were 3700, 92%, 85%, 64% and 97% respectively. Soluble suppression of tumourigenicity 2high patients more frequently experienced posthepatectomy liver failure ≥ grade B (64.3% (n = 36) versus 2.6% (n = 3)) and Clavien–Dindo IIIa higher morbidity rate (23.2% (n = 13) versus 5.1% (n = 6)) compared with soluble suppression of tumourigenicity 2low patients.

Conclusions

Soluble suppression of tumourigenicity 2 may be a reliable predictor of posthepatectomy liver failure ≥ grade B as early as postoperative day 1 for patients undergoing liver resection. Its role in controlling hepatic injury/regeneration needs further investigation.

Registration number: ChiCTR-OOC-15007210 (www.chictr.org.cn/).
Male Social Work Students: Common Dispositions, Motivations, Experiences and Barriers impacting their Career Choice
Authors: Galley David
Published: June 2024

This research article contributes to the literature concerning the gender imbalance within social work and the sparsity of male social work practitioners. It argues for increased gender balance within the profession and reports on a qualitative research study, which garnered the perceptions and experiences of thirty-four male social work students and alumni. Participants were drawn from six universities across the UK. Qualitative data were collated using semi-structured interviews, surveys, field observations and BEM sex role inventory tests. Analysis of the data identified the characteristics and dispositions of males more likely to enter the profession, locating where they can potentially be drawn from. This research is of interest to policymakers wishing to address the low status of the profession and in terms of informing a recruitment strategy for social work, particularly involving secondary and higher education to further promote the profession as one suitable for any gender.
Obesogenic diet induces sex-specific alterations of contextual fear memory and associated hippocampal activity in mice
Authors: N’Diaye Matéo , Ducourneau Eva-Gunnel , Bakoyiannis Ioannis , Potier Mylène , Lafenetre Pauline , Ferreira Guillaume
Published: June 2024

In addition to metabolic and cardiovascular disorders, obesity is associated with cognitive deficits in humans and animal models. We have previously shown that obesogenic high-fat and sugar diet intake during adolescence (adoHFSD) impairs hippocampus (HPC)-dependent memory in rodents. These results were obtained in males only and it remains to evaluate whether adoHFSD has similar effect in females. Therefore, here, we investigated the effects of adoHFSD consumption on HPC-dependent contextual fear memory and associated brain activation in male and female mice. Exposure to adoHFSD increased fat mass accumulation and glucose levels in both males and females but impaired contextual fear memory only in males. Compared with females, contextual fear conditioning induced higher neuronal activation in the dorsal and ventral HPC (CA1 and CA3 subfields) as well as in the medial prefrontal cortex in males. Also, adoHFSD-fed males showed enhanced c-Fos expression in the dorsal HPC, particularly in the dentate gyrus, and in the basolateral amygdala compared with the other groups. Finally, chemogenetic inactivation of the dorsal HPC rescued adoHFSD-induced memory deficits in males. Our results suggest that males are more vulnerable to the effects of adoHFSD on HPC-dependent aversive memory than females, due to overactivation of the dorsal HPC.
Brain local stability and network flexibility of table tennis players: a 7T MRI study
Authors: Liu Wenming , Ye Shuqin , Cao Yuting , Li Yuyang , Gao Yanyan , Zhao Mengqi , Wang Yadan , Yun Bing , Luo Le , Zheng Chanying , Jia Xize
Published: June 2024

Table tennis players have adaptive visual and sensorimotor networks, which are the key brain regions to acquire environmental information and generate motor output. This study examined 20 table tennis players and 21 control subjects through ultrahigh field 7 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging. First, we measured percentage amplitude of fluctuation across five different frequency bands and found that table tennis players had significantly lower percentage amplitude of fluctuation values than control subjects in 18 brain regions, suggesting enhanced stability of spontaneous brain fluctuation amplitudes in visual and sensorimotor networks. Functional connectional analyses revealed increased static functional connectivity between two sensorimotor nodes and other frontal-parietal regions among table tennis players. Additionally, these players displayed enhanced dynamic functional connectivity coupled with reduced static connectivity between five nodes processing visual and sensory information input, and other large-scale cross-regional areas. These findings highlight that table tennis players undergo neural adaptability through a dual mechanism, characterized by global stability in spontaneous brain fluctuation amplitudes and heightened flexibility in visual sensory networks. Our study offers novel insights into the mechanisms of neural adaptability in athletes, providing a foundation for future efforts to enhance cognitive functions in diverse populations, such as athletes, older adults, and individuals with cognitive impairments.
Nearly perfect reproducibility degree of computed tomography in the evaluation of subcutaneous, visceral, and epicardial adipose volumes and radiodensities in lymphoma patients
Authors: Soares Brandao S , Saura Martins A G S M , Cavalcanti Amorim Martins R J C A M , Duarte Ribeiro Sobrinho J M D R S , De Moraes Chaves Becker M M C B , De Oliveira Buril R O B , De Oliveira Menezes V O M , Alves Mourato F A M
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Obesity increases cardiovascular risk and the occurrence of certain types of cancer. Additionally, oncological diseases and their anticancer therapies can lead to adipose tissue remodeling, worsening chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular risk. Therefore, measuring the volume and distribution of body fat can help characterize and monitor the cardiometabolic status of patients undergoing cancer treatment. Positron emission tomography (PET) combined with computed tomography (CT) is a routine hybrid imaging method in oncology practice. PET/CT can provide information on the quality, volume, and distribution of body fat. However, the literature regarding the accuracy and reproducibility of these analyses by PET/CT still needs to be improved.

Purpose

To evaluate the inter- and intra-observer reproducibility of CT in analyzing measurements of subcutaneous (SC), visceral (VS), and epicardial (EP) fat volumes in lymphoma patients who underwent oncological PET/CT examinations at a Brazilian university hospital.

Materials and Methods

A blind, comparative, observational, and analytical study. Data collection was performed using an oncological PET/CT examination database. The volumes and attenuation densities of SC, VS, and EP fat were measured by two independent evaluators using the free software LIFEx at two different moments on PET/CT images of 21 lymphoma patients. The data were grouped by evaluator and analysis moment and compared among them. Intra-observer reproducibility was evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and inter-observer reproducibility was evaluated using the kappa coefficient (k).

Results

Regarding intra-observer reproducibility, the ICC was greater than 0.99 for assessments of SC and VS fat attenuation density and greater than 0.96 for EP fat attenuation density for both observers. For fat volume assessments, an ICC greater than 0.99 was obtained for SC and VS and greater than 0.97 for both observers. Concerning inter-observer reproducibility, the k coefficient ranged from 0.9 to 0.95 for EP attenuation and volume assessments and was >0.99 for both measures in the other sites.

Conclusion

PET/CT showed nearly perfect intra- and inter-observers reproducibility in evaluating the density and volume of SC, VS, and EP fat in lymphoma patients.
Value of a coronary CT angiography plus stress cardiac MRI strategy for the evaluation of patients with CCS in the real world
Authors: Busi G , Amico M A , Vannini M , Virgili G , Migliorini A , Pontecorboli G , Pradella S , Acquafresca M , Moroni M , Di Mario C , Valenti R , Carrabba N
Published: June 2024

Background

Limited information is available regarding the use of a coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) plus stress cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (S-CMR) strategy in patients with chronic coronary syndrome (CCS).

Purpose

We sought to evaluate safety and efficacy of a CCTA plus S-CMR strategy in CCS patients.

Methods

At our tertiary care center, 115 patients with suspected CCS at low-intermediate risk first underwent CCTA. Subsequently, those showing intermediate coronary plaques (stenosis 30-70%) underwent S-CMR. Patients with a positive S-CMR were referred for invasive coronary angiopraphy (ICA) plus instantaneous wave-free ratio (iFR), and myocardial revascularization if recommended. All patients received guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT), including high-dose statins, regardless of myocardial revascularization. The primary endpoint was a composite of death from cardiovascular causes, non-fatal myocardial infarction and unplanned revascularization.

Results

According to the results of CCTA, 62 patients showing intermediate coronary plaques underwent S-CMR, which resulted positive for myocardial perfusion deficit in n=17 (27%) and negative in n=45 (73%) patients. According to the results of ICA­ plus iFR, revascularization was performed in 13 patients. No differences in the primary endpoint between the positive and negative S-CMR groups were observed at 1 year (1 [5.9%] vs. 1 [2.2%], P=0.485) and after a median of 33.4 months (2 [11.8%] vs. 3 [6.7%]; P=0.605). Throughout the follow-up, no events were observed in patients with no/minimal plaques at CCTA.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that a CCTA plus S-CMR strategy is effective for the evaluation of patients with suspicion of CCS at low-intermediate risk, and it may help to refine the selection of patients with intermediate coronary plaques at CCTA needing coronary revascularization.
Impact of myocardial viability assessment by NTG augmented Tc99m Sestamibi Gated SPECT on management of Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Kumaresan K , Hashmatullah M
Published: June 2024

Aim

To study the impact of myocardial viability assessment by NTG augmented Tc99m Sestamibi Gated SPECT on patients with severe LV dysfunction and significant CAD.

Material and Methods

Forty nine consecutive patients were included in the study. Scan acquisition was done using standard protocol. Myocardial tracer uptake was assessed qualitatively and semi-quantitatively, alongwith presence or absence of systolic brightening. Viable myocardium available in LAD territory was calculated to classify the patients. 37 patients (Group I) were found to have adequate viable myocardium and twelve patients (Group II) did not have adequate viable myocardium in LAD territory. One year follow up information was obtained directly from the patients.

Results

Sixteen patients in Group I (39%) underwent CABG and 3 patients underwent PTCA to LAD, 9 were advised against CABG, 6 were waiting for surgery and 3 refused surgery / intervention; All 16 patients who underwent CABG, and 2 out of 3 who underwent PTCA improved significantly. One patient died after PTCA. Among the 18 on medical treatment, 6 died, one improved clinically and the remaining 11 did not have any clinical improvement.

In Group II, 3 patients (25%) were taken up for CABG, 3 patients underwent PTCA (to non-LAD vessel) and remaining 6 were on medical treatment. Two out of 6 of CABG / PTCA group clinically improved and the remaining 4 were stable. Among the 6 on medical treatment 2 died.

Conclusion

Assessment of myocardial viability has been found to be important in decision making regarding CABG in patients with severe LV dysfunction; Patients with adequate viable myocardium are found to have better prognosis with CABG /PTCA as compared to medical treatment.
The gap-free genome and multi-omics analysis of Citrus reticulata ‘Chachi’ reveal the dynamics of fruit flavonoid biosynthesis
Authors: Zhu Congyi , You Congjun , Wu Pingzhi , Huang Yongjing , Zhang Ruimin , Fan Zhengyan , Yu Chao , Gong Jinli , Hu Xiaoli , Zeng Jiwu , Sun Xuepeng
Published: June 2024

Citrus reticulata ‘Chachi’ (CRC) has long been recognized for its nutritional benefits, health-promoting properties, and pharmacological potential. Despite its importance, the bioactive components of CRC and their biosynthetic pathways have remained largely unexplored. In this study, we introduce a gap-free genome assembly for CRC, which has a size of 312.97 Mb and a contig N50 size of 32.18 Mb. We identified key structural genes, transcription factors, and metabolites crucial to flavonoid biosynthesis through genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analyses. Our analyses reveal that 409 flavonoid metabolites, accounting for 83.30% of the total identified, are highly concentrated in the early stage of fruit development. This concentration decreases as the fruit develops, with a notable decline in compounds such as hesperetin, naringin, and most polymethoxyflavones observed in later fruit development stages. Additionally, we have examined the expression of 21 structural genes within the flavonoid biosynthetic pathway, and found a significant reduction in the expression levels of key genes including 4CL, CHS, CHI, FLS, F3H, and 4′OMT during fruit development, aligning with the trend of flavonoid metabolite accumulation. In conclusion, this study offers deep insights into the genomic evolution, biosynthesis processes, and the nutritional and medicinal properties of CRC, which lay a solid foundation for further gene function studies and germplasm improvement in citrus.
Endocrine disruption and male reproductive disorders: unanswered questions
Authors: Sharpe Richard M
Published: June 2024

Maternal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in human pregnancy is widely considered as an important cause of adverse changes in male reproductive health due to impaired foetal androgen production/action. However, the epidemiological evidence supporting this view is equivocal, except for certain phthalates, notably diethyl hexyl phthalate (DEHP). Maternal phthalate exposure levels associated with adverse reproductive changes in epidemiological studies are several thousand-fold lower than those needed to suppress foetal androgen production in rats, and direct studies using human foetal testis tissue show no effect of high phthalate exposure on androgen production. This conundrum is unexplained and raises fundamental questions. Human DEHP exposure is predominantly via food with highest exposure associated with consumption of a Western style (unhealthy) diet. This diet is also associated with increased exposure to the most common EDCs, whether persistent (chlorinated or fluorinated chemicals) or non-persistent (phthalates, bisphenols) compounds, which are found at highest levels in fatty and processed foods. Consequently, epidemiological studies associating EDC exposure and male reproductive health disorders are confounded by potential dietary effects, and vice versa. A Western diet/lifestyle in young adulthood is also associated with low sperm counts. Disentangling EDC and dietary effects in epidemiological studies is challenging. In pregnancy, a Western diet, EDC exposure, and maternal living in proximity to industrial sites are all associated with impaired foetal growth/development due to placental dysfunction, which predisposes to congenital male reproductive disorders (cryptorchidism, hypospadias). While the latter are considered to reflect impaired foetal androgen production, effects resulting from foetal growth impairment (FGI) are likely indirect. As FGI has numerous life-long health consequences, and is affected by maternal lifestyle, research into the origins of male reproductive disorders should take more account of this. Additionally, potential effects on foetal growth/foetal testis from the increasing use of medications in pregnancy deserves more research attention.
Descent and Étale-Brauer Obstructions for 0-Cycles
Authors: Balestrieri Francesca , Berg Jennifer
Published: June 2024

For 0-cycles on a variety over a number field, we define an analogue of the classical descent set for rational points. This leads to, among other things, a definition of the étale-Brauer obstruction set for 0-cycles. We show that all these constructions are compatible with Suslin’s singular homology of degree 0. We then transfer some tools and techniques used to study the arithmetic of rational points into the setting of 0-cycles. For example, we extend the strategy developed by Y. Liang, relating the arithmetic of rational points over finite extensions of the base field to that of 0-cycles, to torsors. We give applications of our results to study the arithmetic behaviour of 0-cycles for Enriques surfaces, torsors given by (twisted) Kummer varieties, universal torsors, and torsors under tori.
Treponema pallidum Periplasmic and Membrane Proteins Are Recognized by Circulating and Skin CD4+ T Cells
Authors: Reid Tara B , Godornes Charmie , Campbell Victoria L , Laing Kerry J , Tantalo Lauren C , Gomez Alloysius , Pholsena Thepthara N , Lieberman Nicole A P , Krause Taylor M , Cegielski Victoria I , Culver Lauren A , Nguyen Nhi , Tong Denise Q , Hawley Kelly L , Greninger Alexander L , Giacani Lorenzo , Cameron Caroline E , Dombrowski Julia C , Wald Anna , Koelle David M
Published: June 2024

Background

Histologic and serologic studies suggest the induction of local and systemic Treponema pallidum-specific CD4+ T-cell responses to T. pallidum infection. We hypothesized that T. pallidum-specific CD4+ T cells are detectable in blood and in the skin rash of secondary syphilis and persist in both compartments after treatment.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells collected from 67 participants were screened by interferon-γ (IFN-γ) ELISPOT response to T. pallidum sonicate. T. pallidum-reactive T-cell lines from blood and skin were probed for responses to 89 recombinant T. pallidum antigens. Peptide epitopes and HLA class II restriction were defined for selected antigens.

Results

We detected CD4+ T-cell responses to T. pallidum sonicate ex vivo. Using T. pallidum-reactive T-cell lines we observed recognition of 14 discrete proteins, 13 of which localize to bacterial membranes or the periplasmic space. After therapy, T. pallidum-specific T cells persisted for at least 6 months in skin and 10 years in blood.

Conclusions

T. pallidum infection elicits an antigen-specific CD4+ T-cell response in blood and skin. T. pallidum-specific CD4+ T cells persist as memory in both compartments long after curative therapy. The T. pallidum antigenic targets we identified may be high-priority vaccine candidates.
When the World Is an Object: On the Governmental Promise of a Digital Twin Earth
Authors: Rothe Delf
Published: June 2024

A growing body of literature studies how expert practices constitute issues such as climate change, migration, or public health as international objects of expertise. The article contributes to this research agenda by highlighting the role of digital visual technologies and infrastructures in the constitution and governance of these international objects. It develops the concept of visual objects and uses it to trace and explain the emergence of a new technological initiative conducted by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the EU: the vision of a ‘digital twin Earth’ (DTE). The idea behind the DTE is to combine various technologies, including satellite Earth observation, advanced computer models, and AI, to build a digital replica of our planet and thereby govern risks emanating from environmental changes and other global challenges. The article provides a first analysis of the international politics of the DTE. It shows how the visual object of the DTE functions as an attractor of heterogeneous actors and practices involved in the European space policy field thereby temporarily stabilizing this complex assemblage. Finally, it traces how the DTE and its machinic ways of seeing enact the Earth not only as an object of knowledge but also as one of experimentation and intervention.
Pregnancy risk in beef and dairy cows after supplementing semen with transforming growth factor beta-1 at the time of artificial insemination
Authors: Fritsche Katelyn L M , Ahola Jason K , Pinedo Pablo J , Seidel George E , Rhoades Ryan D , Stevenson Jeffrey S , Olson K C , Jaeger John R , Grieger David M , Bromfield John J
Published: June 2024

Our objective was to determine if the addition of a concentrated human recombinant transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF) to bovine semen at the time of AI would result in increased risk of pregnancy in beef and dairy cows. Suckled beef cows (n = 1,132) in 11 herds across 2 states and lactating dairy cows (n = 2,208) in one organic-certified herd were enrolled. Beef cows received fixed-time AI (FTAI) following a 7 d CO-Synch + controlled internal drug release estrous synchronization protocol. Dairy cows were inseminated following observation of natural estrus expression. Cows received either no treatment as a control (CON) or 10 ng of TGF in 10 μL added through the cut-end of a thawed straw of semen immediately prior to AI. At the time of FTAI of beef cows, the mean ± SD age was 5.0 ± 2.4 yr, BCS was 5.3 ± 0.7, and days postpartum was 78.2 ± 15.5 d. The overall pregnancy risk (PR) in beef cows was 55.2% to AI and 90.5% season-long. PR in beef cows was not affected (P = 0.27) by the addition of TGF (53.1% vs. 58.1%). Furthermore, there was no difference (P = 0.88) for season-long PR in beef cows that received TGF (91.2% vs. 91.5%). At the time of insemination of dairy cows, the mean ± SD lactation was 3.0 ± 1.3 lactations, BCS was 2.9 ± 0.3, days in milk was 115.6 ± 56.6 d, and cows had received 2.4 ± 1.5 inseminations/cow. The overall pregnancy risk to AI in dairy cows was 23.1%. PR to AI for dairy cows was not affected (P = 0.32) by addition of TGF (22.0% vs. 23.8%). In conclusion, PR to AI was not affected by addition of TGF to thawed semen immediately prior to AI in beef or dairy cows.
A Case of Frostbite on Hands Due to Liquid Nitrogen
Authors: Nakaso Soma , Ono Shimpei , Chung Kevin C , Ogawa Rei
Published: June 2024

This study examines a rare case of frostbite on the hands caused by liquid nitrogen, focusing on the scar maturation process. Frostbite is typically less prone to abnormal scarring compared to burns, and this report contrasts the differences in scar maturation between the two. A 31-year-old male hospital employee sustained first- to second-degree frostbite on his gloved hands from a 20-s exposure to liquid nitrogen while changing a cylinder. Conservative treatment was applied, and the patient was monitored for 9 months. The deeply affected area took 50 days to epithelialize but healed without hypertrophic scarring. A mild extension contracture was noted in the distal interphalangeal joint of the right index finger, but the skin remained supple and soft. Incidents of liquid nitrogen-induced frostbite are uncommon, with only 14 cases reported in PubMed previously. In frostbite, the wound healing involves a slow replacement of damaged connective tissue, which acts as an internal splint, reducing wound contraction. This contrasts with burns, where rapid connective tissue replacement occurs, often leading to significant wound contraction due to the presence of myofibroblasts in granulation tissue. In the presented case, the slow healing process and minimal wound contraction led to mature scarring without abnormalities, underlining a distinctive healing trajectory in frostbite injuries compared to burns.
Shifting responsibilities and security threats by depriving foreign terrorist fighters of their nationality
Authors: Asscher Ida
Published: June 2024

One of the ways in which States of nationality have responded to the potential security threat posed by foreign terrorist fighters (FTFs) and their family members who travelled to Syria and Iraq, is by stripping them of their nationality. This practice constitutes a form of ‘buck-passing’, as States shun their responsibilities and export the problem to other States or actors like the Syrian Democratic Forces. When a State strips its nationality, the depriving State is no longer responsible to take back its former national, while another State of nationality is now responsible to admit the FTF or family member and subsequently prosecute, re-integrate, rehabilitate, and monitor her or him if necessary. Furthermore, when the person concerned poses a possible security threat, it is not only a responsibility over the person that is exported to other States but also a risk of terrorism as well as a burden to counter that risk. The practice of nationality deprivation has extensively been scrutinized from a human rights perspective, with a focus on its consequences towards the individual concerned. This article, however, takes a different approach and looks at this practice from the perspective of inter-state relations, focusing on how it affects other involved States or actors. Thus, instead of focusing on international human rights law, this article looks at the inter-state perspective to nationality deprivation and examines public international law’s position towards this practice of buck-passing by examining other rules and obligations.
Current and future invasion risk of tomato red spider mite under climate change
Authors: Yan Wenjie , Du Liyan , Liu Huai , Li Guang-Yun
Published: June 2024

Tomato red spider mite Tetranychus evansi Baker and Pritchard (Acari: Tetranychidae) is a phytophagous pest that causes severe damage to Solanaceous plants worldwide, resulting in significant economic losses. In this study, the maximum entropy model was used to predict the potential current (1970–2000) and future (2021–2060) global distribution of the species based on its past occurrence records and high-resolution environmental data. The results showed that the mean values of the area under the curve were all >0.96, indicating that the model performed well. The three bioclimatic variables with the highest contributions were the coldest quarterly mean temperature (bio11), coldest monthly minimum temperature (bio6), and annual precipitation (bio12). A wide range of suitable areas was found across continents except Antarctica, both currently and in the future, with a much larger distribution area in South America, Africa, and Oceania (Australia), dominated by moderately and low suitable areas. A comparison of current and future suitable areas reveals a general trend of north expansion and increasing expansion over time. This study provides information for the prevention and management of this pest mite in the future.
Drought weakens the positive effect of plant diversity on community biomass
Authors: Hou Yanhui , Li Xiaona , Hu Yanxia , Lu Xuwei , Ma Yue , Li Wenmin , Lü Xiran , Li Zimo , Bai Yaxuan , Wang Chao
Published: June 2024

Drought can greatly impact the biodiversity of an ecosystem and play a crucial role in regulating its functioning. However, the specific mechanisms by which drought mediate the biodiversity effect (BE) on community biomass in above- and belowground through functional traits remain poorly understood. Here, we conducted a common garden experiment in a greenhouse, which included two plant species richness levels and two water addition levels, to analyze the effects of biodiversity on aboveground biomass (AGB), belowground biomass (BGB) and total biomass (TB), and to quantify the relationship between BEs and functional traits under drought conditions. Our analysis focused on partitioning BEs into above- and belowground complementarity effect (CE) and selection effect (SE) at the species level, which allowed us to better understand the impacts of biodiversity on community biomass and the underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that plant species richness stimulated AGB, BGB and TB through CEs. Drought decreased AGB, BGB and TB, simultaneously. In addition, the aboveground CE was positively associated with the variation in plant height. SEs in above- and belowground were negatively correlated with the community mean plant height and root length, respectively. Furthermore, drought weakened the aboveground CE by decreasing variation in plant height, resulting in a reduction in AGB and TB. Our findings demonstrate that the complementarity of species is an important regulator of community biomass in above- and belowground, the dynamics of biomass under environmental stress are associated with the response of sensitive compartments.
Spatial data fusion adjusting for preferential sampling using integrated nested Laplace approximation and stochastic partial differential equation
Authors: Zhong Ruiman , Ribeiro Amaral André Victor , Moraga Paula
Published: June 2024

Spatially misaligned data can be fused by using a Bayesian melding model that assumes that underlying all observations there is a spatially continuous Gaussian random field. This model can be employed, for instance, to forecast air pollution levels through the integration of point data from monitoring stations and areal data derived from satellite imagery. However, if the data present preferential sampling, that is, if the observed point locations are not independent of the underlying spatial process, the inference obtained from models that ignore such a dependence structure may not be valid. In this paper, we present a Bayesian spatial model for the fusion of point and areal data that takes into account preferential sampling. Fast Bayesian inference is performed using the integrated nested Laplace approximation and the stochastic partial differential equation approaches. The performance of the model is assessed using simulated data in a range of scenarios and sampling strategies that can appear in real settings. The model is also applied to predict air pollution in the USA.
Sialorrhoea
Authors: Douglas Kirsty , Burman Rachel
Published: June 2024

This case describes the management of sialorrhoea in a man with advanced motor neurone disease. It reviews the pathophysiology of sialorrhoea and the physical and psychosocial impact of this difficult symptom on affected individuals. Non-pharmacological and pharmacological management strategies are reviewed, with a pragmatic stepwise approach to management recommended. It explores a common yet challenging presentation to palliative medicine, highlighting the importance of actively managing sialorrhoea to reduce its physical and psychosocial consequences. This is, arguably, particularly important for those who use NIV since uncontrolled sialorrhoea reduces NIV tolerance, potentially reducing life expectancy and quality of life. Currently, management involves a trial-and-error approach working stepwise through options with the individual patient, and their family, at the centre of all decisions.
Malignant Spinal Cord Compression
Authors: Finlay Mairi , Jackson Oliver , Teo Mark
Published: June 2024

Malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC) is a common acute oncological emergency with severe long-term consequences if unrecognized and not treated urgently. Clinicians should have a low threshold to suspect MSCC in patients with malignant back pain with known bone metastases. Besides urgent investigation and treatment (surgical and non-surgical), a holistic approach including pain control and rehabilitation is needed. We present a case describing the management and key considerations for a patient with MSCC as a first presentation of cancer. With an overall one-year survival of 20% following MSCC, prognostication is critical to guide decision-making on the aggressiveness of MSCC treatment (e.g. surgery, higher radiotherapy doses) and potential for rehabilitation.
Features and global impact of invasive fungal infections caused by Pneumocystis jirovecii: A systematic review to inform the World Health Organization fungal priority pathogens list
Authors: McMullan Brendan , Kim Hannah Yejin , Alastruey-Izquierdo Ana , Tacconelli Evelina , Dao Aiken , Oladele Rita , Tanti Daniel , Govender Nelesh P , Shin Jong-Hee , Heim Jutta , Ford Nathan Paul , Huttner Benedikt , Galas Marcelo , Nahrgang Saskia Andrea , Gigante Valeria , Sati Hatim , Alffenaar Jan Willem , Morrissey C Orla , Beardsley Justin
Published: June 2024

This systematic review evaluates the current global impact of invasive infections caused by Pneumocystis jirovecii (principally pneumonia: PJP), and was carried out to inform the World Health Organization Fungal Priority Pathogens List. PubMed and Web of Science were used to find studies reporting mortality, inpatient care, complications/sequelae, antifungal susceptibility/resistance, preventability, annual incidence, global distribution, and emergence in the past 10 years, published from January 2011 to February 2021. Reported mortality is highly variable, depending on the patient population: In studies of persons with HIV, mortality was reported at 5%–30%, while in studies of persons without HIV, mortality ranged from 4% to 76%. Risk factors for disease principally include immunosuppression from HIV, but other types of immunosuppression are increasingly recognised, including solid organ and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, autoimmune and inflammatory disease, and chemotherapy for cancer. Although prophylaxis is available and generally effective, burdensome side effects may lead to discontinuation. After a period of decline associated with improvement in access to HIV treatment, new risk groups of immunosuppressed patients with PJP are increasingly identified, including solid organ transplant patients.
Genome-Wide Allele Frequency Changes Reveal That Dynamic Metapopulations Evolve Differently
Authors: Angst Pascal , Haag Christoph R , Ben-Ami Frida , Fields Peter D , Ebert Dieter
Published: June 2024

Two important characteristics of metapopulations are extinction–(re)colonization dynamics and gene flow between subpopulations. These processes can cause strong shifts in genome-wide allele frequencies that are generally not observed in “classical” (large, stable, and panmictic) populations. Subpopulations founded by one or a few individuals, the so-called propagule model, are initially expected to show intermediate allele frequencies at polymorphic sites until natural selection and genetic drift drive allele frequencies toward a mutation–selection–drift equilibrium characterized by a negative exponential-like distribution of the site frequency spectrum. We followed changes in site frequency spectrum distribution in a natural metapopulation of the cyclically parthenogenetic pond-dwelling microcrustacean Daphnia magna using biannual pool-seq samples collected over a 5-yr period from 118 ponds occupied by subpopulations of known age. As expected under the propagule model, site frequency spectra in newly founded subpopulations trended toward intermediate allele frequencies and shifted toward right-skewed distributions as the populations aged. Immigration and subsequent hybrid vigor altered this dynamic. We show that the analysis of site frequency spectrum dynamics is a powerful approach to understand evolution in metapopulations. It allowed us to disentangle evolutionary processes occurring in a natural metapopulation, where many subpopulations evolve in parallel. Thereby, stochastic processes like founder and immigration events lead to a pattern of subpopulation divergence, while genetic drift leads to converging site frequency spectrum distributions in the persisting subpopulations. The observed processes are well explained by the propagule model and highlight that metapopulations evolve differently from classical populations.
Evidence for Admixture and Rapid Evolution During Glacial Climate Change in an Alpine Specialist
Authors: Weng Yi-Ming , Kavanaugh David H , Schoville Sean D
Published: June 2024

The pace of current climate change is expected to be problematic for alpine flora and fauna, as their adaptive capacity may be limited by small population size. Yet, despite substantial genetic drift following post-glacial recolonization of alpine habitats, alpine species are notable for their success surviving in highly heterogeneous environments. Population genomic analyses demonstrating how alpine species have adapted to novel environments with limited genetic diversity remain rare, yet are important in understanding the potential for species to respond to contemporary climate change. In this study, we explored the evolutionary history of alpine ground beetles in the Nebria ingens complex, including the demographic and adaptive changes that followed the last glacier retreat. We first tested alternative models of evolutionary divergence in the species complex. Using millions of genome-wide SNP markers from hundreds of beetles, we found evidence that the N. ingens complex has been formed by past admixture of lineages responding to glacial cycles. Recolonization of alpine sites involved a distributional range shift to higher elevation, which was accompanied by a reduction in suitable habitat and the emergence of complex spatial genetic structure. We tested several possible genetic pathways involved in adaptation to heterogeneous local environments using genome scan and genotype–environment association approaches. From the identified genes, we found enriched functions associated with abiotic stress responses, with strong evidence for adaptation to hypoxia-related pathways. The results demonstrate that despite rapid demographic change, alpine beetles in the N. ingens complex underwent rapid physiological evolution.
CMAPLE: Efficient Phylogenetic Inference in the Pandemic Era
Authors: Ly-Trong Nhan , Bielow Chris , De Maio Nicola , Minh Bui Quang
Published: June 2024

We have recently introduced MAPLE (MAximum Parsimonious Likelihood Estimation), a new pandemic-scale phylogenetic inference method exclusively designed for genomic epidemiology. In response to the need for enhancing MAPLE's performance and scalability, here we present two key components: (i) CMAPLE software, a highly optimized C++ reimplementation of MAPLE with many new features and advancements, and (ii) CMAPLE library, a suite of application programming interfaces to facilitate the integration of the CMAPLE algorithm into existing phylogenetic inference packages. Notably, we have successfully integrated CMAPLE into the widely used IQ-TREE 2 software, enabling its rapid adoption in the scientific community. These advancements serve as a vital step toward better preparedness for future pandemics, offering researchers powerful tools for large-scale pathogen genomic analysis.