bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Millipede consumption and interaction between food preferences and sex in dung beetle Chalconotus convexus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeinae)
Authors: Nganhane Isildo de N. , Naskrecki Piotr , Farooq Harith , Daniel Gimo M.
Published: September 2023

Dung beetles feed mainly on scarce and ephemeral mammalian faeces making them vulnerable to declines of mammal populations. Therefore, studying how diverse groups like the Scarabaeinae subfamily utilize alternative food sources, such as decomposing invertebrates, enhances our understanding of their distribution and resilience in defaunated areas. One poorly studied aspect of the feeding habits of dung beetles is the potential differences between the sexes and their predatory behaviour. We evaluated how the sex (male and female) of individuals of Chalconotus convexus affected individual resource attraction to different bait types. Since C. convexus is known to feed on faeces, carrion and dead millipedes, we also test whether it can predate live individuals of millipedes. We used a combination of two field samplings and one laboratory experiment, using pitfall traps baited with faeces, carrion, millipedes and millipede's defensive compounds. While the preference for millipede was not associated with sex, we found a significant relationship between faeces and carrion, where females of C. convexus are significantly less attracted to faeces when compared to males and also males are significantly less attracted to carrion when compared to females. Furthermore, we also show that while actively consuming dead millipedes, C. convexus is unable to predate on live individuals. Our study illustrates that the versatility of food sources may help to explain the high abundance and wide distribution of C. convexus in Africa.
Addressing the trophic status in urban ponds: An evaluation of current trophic state indexes
Authors: Allende Luz , Fontanarrosa María Soledad
Published: September 2023

Ponds are generally understudied. Quality problems in urban freshwaters can arise from eutrophication, and trophic status classification gives information related to their ecological situation. Ponds may strongly differ from larger lakes for which most current trophic status classification methods have been developed. This paper seeks to compare and contrast the suitability of six trophic status indexes (TSI) and OECD trophic classifications system currently used to evaluate the eutrophication level of urban ponds in the Subtropical region. The trophic status was evaluated based on total phosphorus (TP), soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP), total nitrogen (TN) and phytoplankton chlorophyll a (Chl a) in 12 ponds placed in different cities from the Pampean region (Argentina), in the warm and cold seasons. Our results demonstrate that there was no relationship between pond size (0.08–2.45 ha) and trophic status. TSIs estimated with Chl a showed significant differences between seasons and the range oligotrophic‐hypertrophic of trophism was encountered. Conversely, TSIs estimated with nutrient concentrations (TP, SRP, TN) did not. The pond's classification in trophic levels fell in the eutrophic‐hypertrophic extreme, and only considering TN/TP broadened the trophic range. No relationship was encountered between Chl a and P; however, Chl a and TN/TP were positively correlated during the warm season. Lower trophic levels regarding TSI (Chl a) were generally associated with a dense floating‐macrophyte cover. We suggest that the TSI considered should correspond to the latitudinal region in which the ponds are located. Our results indicate that it appears restrictive to consider only P contents in ponds to assess eutrophication. Under the proposed framework, the key issues for the study of pond trophic classification will be to include not only P but N concentrations and TN/TP. Also, phytoplankton Chl a concentration jointly with floating macrophytes biomass/coverage should be considered as diagnosis parameters.
Effects of prenatal Doppler ultrasound on the retina of the chick embryo in ovo
Authors: König Julia , Rahn Anja , Schätzel Jana , Frank Marcus , Stahnke Thomas , Witt Martin , Stachs Angrit , Stachs Oliver , Langner Inga , Lindner Tobias , Beller Ebba , Fischer Dagmar‐C. , Streckenbach Felix
Published: September 2023

Currently, the effect of prenatal ultrasound on foetal development is intensively discussed and the guidelines for prenatal diagnostics have been changed. However, data supporting these concerns are scarce. Therefore, we used an established in ovo model of the chicken embryo to investigate cell proliferation and apoptosis within the retina. A total of 21 chicken eggs were fenestrated on Day 5 and allocated to either the control (n = 8) or exposition group (n = 13). The exposition group was treated with pulsed‐wave Doppler ultrasound (PWD) for 10 min while controls remained without treatment. After subsequent incubation (6–48 h), the eggs were sacrificed, and chicken embryos were examined morphologically (HE‐staining) and immunohistochemically. Counting of apoptotic and proliferating cells per retina was performed using antibodies specific for phospho‐histone‐H3 and active caspase‐3 in combination with a biotin‐labelled secondary antibody and peroxidase conjugated avidin–biotin complex for chromogenic detection. Due to a rather low number of specimens at each time point after ultrasound exposition, we neglected the effects of incubation time and focused on treatment effects. This approach revealed that the median number of proliferating cells is reduced after 10 min of exposure to PWD (569 vs. 766), while the number of apoptotic cells is fairly comparable between groups (5 vs. 6). Our data contribute to a better understanding of prenatal US on foetal development by suggesting that PWD could have an impact on the number of proliferating cells in the developing chicken retina and therefore justify further investigations.
Divided Government, Strategic Substitution, and Presidential Unilateralism
Authors: Kaufman Aaron R. , Rogowski Jon C.
Published: September 2023

Presidents select from a range of instruments when creating new policies through executive action. We study strategic substitution in this context and argue that presidents use less visible means of unilateral instruments when Congress is likely to scrutinize presidential action. Using data on unilateral orders issued between 1946 and 2020, we report two main findings. First, analyzing presidents’ choice of instruments, we show that presidents are more likely to substitute memoranda and other less visible instruments for executive orders and proclamations during periods of divided government. Second, after accounting for the substitution of executive orders with other instruments, we find that presidents issue greater numbers of directives during divided government than during unified government. These findings provide new evidence about the limitations of the separation of powers as a constraint on presidential unilateralism and highlight the importance of accounting for the variety of instruments through which presidents create unilateral policies.
Editorial: genome‐wide association studies for developing chronic hepatitis B
Authors: van Hoek Bart
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Huang et al and Lee and Huang papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15887 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15994
Editorial: refractory GERD—does radiofrequency energy prevent the burn?
Authors: Naik Rishi D. , Vaezi Michael F.
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Zerbib et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15936
Editorial: thiopurine/anti‐TNF use during pregnancy—more encouraging safety data
Authors: Chowdhury Reezwana , Kane Sunanda
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Nørgård et al and Nørgård & Friedman papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15956 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16024https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16024
Editorial: is pharmacogenetic testing for adverse effects to IBD treatments ready for roll‐out?
Authors: Chee Desmond , Goodhand James R. , Ahmad Tariq
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Bangma et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15762
Letter: the role of PNPLA3 genotype in autoimmune hepatitis needs further verification
Authors: Wan Bo , Zheng Yushan , Chen Ruanqin
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Mederacke et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15722
Letter: extending FIT from DG30 to NG12 patients
Authors: Turvill James
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Nicholson et al and Farrugia et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15969 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16068 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16082
Letter: proving the benefit of exercise intervention in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Stine Jonathan G. , Schmitz Kathryn H.
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to O'Gorman et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15989 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16070
Very low probability of significant liver inflammation in chronic hepatitis B patients with low ALT levels in the absence of liver fibrosis
Authors: Sonneveld Milan J. , Brouwer Willem P. , Hansen Bettina E. , Chan Henry L.‐Y. , Piratvisuth Teerha , Jia Ji‐Dong , Zeuzem Stefan , Chien Rong‐Nan , Choi Hannah , de Knegt Robert J. , Wat Cynthia , Pavlovic Vedran , Gaggar Anuj , Xie Qing , Buti Maria , de Man Robert A. , Janssen Harry L.A. ,   for the SONIC‐B Study Group
Published: September 2023

Background

Guidelines recommend liver biopsy to rule out significant inflammatory activity in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with elevated hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA but without other indications for treatment.

Aim

To study rates and determinants of clinically significant liver inflammation.

Methods

We selected patients with HBV DNA > 2000 IU/mL from the SONIC‐B database. The presence of significant inflammation (METAVIR ≥ A2 or HAI ≥ 9) was assessed by liver biopsy and correlated with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels (according to AASLD upper limits of normal [ULN]) and stratified by the presence of significant liver fibrosis (Ishak ≥ 3 or METAVIR ≥ F2).

Results

The cohort included 2991 patients; 1672 were HBeAg‐positive. ALT was < ULN in 270 (9%), 1‐2 times ULN in 852 (29%) and > 2 times ULN in 1869 (63%). Significant fibrosis was found in 1419 (47%) and significant inflammatory activity in 630 (21%). Significant inflammatory activity was found in 34% of patients with liver fibrosis, compared to 9.5% of those without (P < 0.001). Among patients without fibrosis, significant inflammatory activity was detected in 3.6% of those with normal ALT, 5.0% of those with ALT 1‐2 times ULN and in 13% of those with ALT > 2 times ULN (P < 0.001). ALT < 2 times ULN had a negative predictive value of 95% for ruling out significant inflammatory activity among patients without liver fibrosis.

Conclusions

Among patients without significant fibrosis, an ALT level < 2 times ULN is associated with < 5% probability of significant inflammatory activity. If fibrosis can be ruled out using non‐invasive methods, liver biopsy solely to assess inflammatory activity should be discouraged.
Methotrexate or azathioprine—do differing rates of discontinuation settle the debate?
Authors: Fraser Alan G.
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Vasudevan et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16039 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16095
Consequences of TIPSS placement on the body composition of patients with cirrhosis and severe portal hypertension: a large retrospective CT‐based surveillance
Authors: Artru Florent , Miquet Xavier , Azahaf Mustapha , Labreuche Julien , Ntandja Wandji Line Carolle , Sergent Géraldine , Nobécourt Amélie , Toumelin Pierre , Lassailly Guillaume , Dharancy Sébastien , Ernst Olivier , Mathurin Philippe , Louvet Alexandre
Published: September 2023

Background

Body composition may be modified after improvement of portal hypertension (PHT) by transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPSS) insertion.

Aims

To evaluate changes in body composition following TIPSS placement, their relationship with radiological TIPSS patency and function, and the predictive value of these parameters

Methods

We retrospectively included 179 patients with cirrhosis who underwent TIPSS placement in our centre for severe PHT from 2011 to 2017. CT scan‐based surveillance was performed at baseline, 1‐3 (M1‐M3) and 6 months (M6).

Results

The median model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score was 11.4 (8.8‐15.1) and Child‐Pugh score 8 (7‐9). Only the MELD score (HR 1.14, 95% CI 1.08‐1.20) and sarcopenia assessed by transversal right psoas muscle thickness at the umbilical level/height (TPMPT/height) (HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.79‐0.96) were independently associated with 6‐month mortality on multivariate analysis. After TIPSS insertion, TPMT/height increased from 19 mm/m (baseline) to 19.6 mm/m (M1‐M3, P = 0.004) and 21.1 mm/m (M6, P < 0.0001). The improvement and its extent were dependent on the radiological patency and dysfunction of TIPSS. Subcutaneous fat surface (SCFS) increased from 183.4 to 193 cm2 (P < 0.0001) and 229.8 cm2 (P < 0.0001), respectively. We observed a decrease in visceral fat surface (VFS) between baseline and M1‐M3 (163.5‐140.5 cm2 [P < 0.0001]), but not between M1‐M3 and M6 (140.5‐141.2 cm2 [P = 0.9]). SCFS and VFS did not seem to be modified by radiological TIPSS patency and dysfunction.

Conclusions

Sarcopenia is independently associated with 6‐month outcome and improves after TIPSS placement, together with an inverse evolution of subcutaneous and visceral fat. TIPSS not only treats PHT but also improves body composition.
Review article: the impact of diet on ileoanal pouch function and on the pathogenesis of pouchitis
Authors: Ardalan Zaid S. , Yao Chu K. , Sparrow Miles P. , Gibson Peter R.
Published: September 2023

Background

There is expanding interest in the role that diet plays in ileoanal pouch function and in the pathogenesis of pouchitis.

Aims

To present a narrative review of published literature regarding the relationship of diet with pouch function and the pathogenesis of pouchitis, and to provide potentially beneficial dietary strategies.

Methods

Current relevant literature was summarised and critically examined.

Results

Dietary components influence pouch function via their effect on upper gastrointestinal transit, small bowel water content and the structure and fermentative activity of the pouch microbiota. FODMAPs in fruits and vegetables appear to affect pouch function the most, with intake positively associated with increased stool frequency and reduced consistency. Dietary factors that influence the pathogenesis of pouchitis appear different and, at times, opposite to those better for optimising function. For example, risk of pouchitis appears to be inversely associated with intake of fruits. The food components mechanistically responsible for this observation are not known, but a rich supply of fermentable fibres and micronutrients in such foods might play a beneficial role via modulation of microbial community structure (such as increasing diversity and/or changing microbial communities to favour ‘protective’ over ‘pathogenic’ bacteria) and function and/or anti‐inflammatory effects.

Conclusion

Available data are weak but suggest tailoring dietary recommendations according to pouch phenotype/behaviour and pouchitis risk might improve outcomes. More sophisticated dietary strategies that utilise the physiological and pathophysiological effects of dietary components on ileoanal pouches have potential to further improve outcomes. Well designed, adequately powered studies are required.
Editorial: crystal gazing with magnetic resonance enterography to predict the response to TNF‐alpha inhibitors in Crohn's disease
Authors: Zulfiqar Maria , Deepak Parakkal
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Rimola et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16069
The Future of Accounting Talent: Career Values, Choices and Satisfaction Among Early Career Accountants
Authors: Jackson Denise , Richardson Julia , Michelson Grant , Munir Rahat
Published: September 2023

Amid a global war for accounting talent, this paper extends our understanding of early career accountants’ (ECAs) career values and the alignment between their career expectations and experiences when entering the profession. Drawing on survey data from 305 ECAs and 165 managers/recruiters of ECAs in Australia, the paper uses social cognitive career theory and person–organisation fit theory to explore the dynamic interplay between individual and contextual factors and career values, career choices and subsequent career satisfaction. The findings emphasise the importance of both intrinsic, and to a lesser extent extrinsic, career values for ECAs, with variations by gender and organisation setting. ECAs and managers identified different perceptions of attractors to diverse organisational settings. While ECAs were generally satisfied with their careers, satisfaction varied by organisation type. Intrinsic career values were positively associated with ECAs’ career satisfaction, along with age and closer alignment between career expectations and experiences. Our analyses suggest implications for the recruitment and retention of new accounting talent and calls to engage with individual and contextual influences on career values, experiences and satisfaction. Specifically, the paper highlights how different organisations can tailor their strategies to better attract and retain early career accountants to support more sustainable careers.
The chronic myeloid leukaemia story in the United Kingdom since 1960
Authors: Clark Richard E.
Published: September 2023

Over the past 60 years, haematologists and scientists from the United Kingdom, notably John Goldman and Tessa Holyoake, have punched above their weight in changing chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) from an incurable and invariably fatal disease for all, to a chronic condition where over 90% have normal life expectancy. As a result, it is now difficult to power a worthwhile phase 3 study for newly diagnosed patients. Nevertheless, important clinical questions remain.
Historical review: a history of the British Journal of Haematology
Authors: Bain Barbara J.
Published: September 2023

The British Journal of Haematology has now been in existence for 65 years. In this time it has served the international community as well as British haematology and has become increasingly international in its outlook. Its changing content has mirrored the changes in haematology over more than six decades, particularly with an increasing emphasis on haematological neoplasms and their treatment.
Improvements in outcome of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) in the UK – a success story of modern medicine through successive UKALL trials and international collaboration
Authors: Bartram Jack , Veys Paul , Vora Ajay
Published: September 2023

Sixty years ago, there was no expectation of cure for children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and treatment was essentially palliative. In the year 2020, >90% of children and >70% of young adults can expect to be cured with first‐line therapy and 20–50% of relapses can be salvaged depending on age and timing of relapse. The focus of treatment is gradually shifting from intensive therapy to the use of new agents to optimise efficacy, while minimising acute and long‐term toxicity. The UKALL trials have made important contributions to the refinement of treatment stratification and scheduling, which have delivered the excellent outcomes to date without new agents. This year UKALL, with other groups across Europe, will begin a new collaborative group working from a unified ALL protocol (ALLTogether) that will incorporate new agents including immune‐based approaches.
The future of haematology: inspiring others to join us on our noble journeys
Authors: Butler Tom
Published: September 2023

The Chair of Education Committe of the British Society for Haematology (BSH) introduces the winning entry for the BSH 2020 Student Essay competition. This is part of the BSH 60th anniversary celebrations.
PRUNE1 (located on chromosome 1q21.3) promotes multiple myeloma with 1q21 Gain by enhancing the links between purine and mitochondrion
Authors: Xu Jiadai , Wang Yawen , Li Panpan , Chen Chen , Jiang Zhihong , Wang Xiaona , Liu Peng
Published: September 2023

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) with chromosome 1q21 Gain (1q21+) are clinically and biologically heterogeneous. 1q21+ in the real world actually reflects the prognosis for gain/amplification of the CKS1B gene. In this study, we found that the copy number of prune exopolyphosphatase 1 (PRUNE1), located on chromosome 1q21.3, could further stratify the prognosis of MM patients with 1q21+. Using selected reaction monitoring/multiple reaction monitoring (SRM/MRM) analysis, liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), confocal fluorescence microscopy, calculation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial oxygen consumption rates (OCRs), we demonstrated for the first time that PRUNE1 promotes the proliferation and invasion of MM cells by stimulating purine metabolism, purine synthesis enzymes and mitochondrial functions, enhancing links between purinosomes and mitochondria. SOX11 was identified as a transcription factor for PRUNE1. Through integrated analysis of the transcriptome and proteome, CD73 was determined to be the downstream target of PRUNE1. Furthermore, it has been determined that dipyridamole can effectively suppress the proliferation of MM cells with high‐expression levels of PRUNE1 in vitro and in vivo. These findings provide insights into disease‐causing mechanisms and new therapeutic targets for MM patients with 1q21+.
Using item scores and response times in person‐fit assessment
Authors: Gorney Kylie , Sinharay Sandip , Liu Xiang
Published: September 2023

The use of joint models for item scores and response times is becoming increasingly popular in educational and psychological testing. In this paper, we propose two new person‐fit statistics for such models in order to detect aberrant behaviour. The first statistic is computed by combining two existing person‐fit statistics: one for the item scores, and one for the item response times. The second statistic is computed directly using the likelihood function of the joint model. Using detailed simulations, we show that the empirical null distributions of the new statistics are very close to the theoretical null distributions, and that the new statistics tend to be more powerful than several existing statistics for item scores and/or response times. A real data example is also provided using data from a licensure examination.
Decline and fall of the Ediacarans: late‐Neoproterozoic extinctions and the rise of the modern biosphere
Authors: Mussini Giovanni , Dunn Frances S.
Published: September 2023

The end‐Neoproterozoic transition marked a gradual but permanent shift between distinct configurations of Earth's biosphere. This interval witnessed the demise of the enigmatic Ediacaran Biota, ushering in the structured trophic webs and disparate animal body plans of Phanerozoic ecosystems. However, little consensus exists on the reality, drivers, and macroevolutionary implications of end‐Neoproterozoic extinctions. Here we evaluate potential drivers of late‐Neoproterozoic turnover by addressing recent findings on Ediacaran geochronology, the persistence of classical Ediacaran macrobionts into the Cambrian, and the existence of Ediacaran crown‐group eumetazoans. Despite renewed interest in the possibility of Phanerozoic‐style ‘mass extinctions’ in the latest Neoproterozoic, our synthesis of the available evidence does not support extinction models based on episodic geochemical triggers, nor does it validate simple ecological interpretations centred on direct competitive displacement. Instead, we argue that the protracted and indirect effects of early bilaterian innovations, including escalations in sediment engineering, predation, and the largely understudied impacts of reef‐building, may best account for the temporal structure and possible selectivity of late‐Neoproterozoic extinctions. We integrate these processes into a generalised model of early eumetazoan‐dominated ecologies, charting the disruption of spatial and temporal isotropy on the Ediacaran benthos as a consequence of diversifying macrofaunal interactions. Given the nature of resource distribution in Ediacaran ecologies, the continuities among Ediacaran and Cambrian faunas, and the convergent origins of ecologically disruptive innovations among bilaterians we suggest that the rise of Phanerozoic‐type biotas may have been unstoppable.
Skill‐replacing process innovation and the labour market: Theory and evidence
Authors: Zhu Wenbo
Published: September 2023

I study the differential impacts of product innovation and process innovation on the labour market. Using European data from 2000 to 2018, I find that industries with proportionally more firms reporting product innovation than process innovation also tend to exhibit a lower income share of low‐skilled workers. To better understand the mechanism, I develop a dynamic growth model in which firms conduct both types of innovation endogenously. In the model, product innovation introduces new intermediate goods, which tend to require high‐skilled workers to implement. Process innovation simplifies existing production technologies and thereby allows firms to replace high‐skilled workers with low‐skilled ones. I calibrate an extended version of the model to the largest two industries in UK in 2014 and 2018, respectively. I find that product innovation has become less costly but increasingly demanding for skills, and the cost of process innovation has increased on average and become more diverse across firms.
Developmental trajectory of appetitive traits and their bidirectional relations with body mass index from infancy to early childhood
Authors: Cummings Jenna R. , Lipsky Leah M. , Faith Myles S. , Nansel Tonja R.
Published: September 2023

Appetitive traits, including food responsiveness, enjoyment of food, satiety responsiveness and slowness in eating, are associated with childhood body mass index. Change in appetitive traits from infancy to childhood and the direction of causality between appetitive traits and body mass index are unclear. The present study examined the developmental trajectory of appetitive traits and their bidirectional relations with body mass index, from infancy to early childhood. Mothers in the Pregnancy Eating Attributes Study and follow‐up (n = 162) reported child appetitive traits using the Baby and Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaires at ages 6 months and 3.5 years, respectively. Standardized body mass index (zBMI) was calculated from child anthropometrics. Cross‐lagged panel models estimated bidirectional relations between appetitive traits and zBMI. Food responsiveness, satiety responsiveness and slowness in eating increased from infancy to early childhood. In cross‐lagged panel models, lower infant satiety responsiveness (B ± SE = −0.45 ± 0.19, p = .02) predicted greater child zBMI. Infant zBMI did not predict child appetitive traits (p‐values >.36). From infancy to early childhood, appetitive traits may amplify. Appetitive traits, particularly satiety responsiveness, appear to influence body mass index during this period, suggesting early intervention targeting these traits may reduce childhood obesity.
A data‐driven approach to multiple‐stressor impact assessment for a marine protected area
Authors: Griffiths Laura L. , Williams Joel , Buelow Christina A. , Tulloch Vivitskaia J. , Turschwell Mischa P. , Campbell Max D. , Harasti David , Connolly Rod M. , Brown Christopher J.
Published: September 2023

The coastal environment is not managed in a way that considers the impact of cumulative threats, despite being subject to threats from all realms (marine, land, and atmosphere). Relationships between threats and species are often nonlinear; thus, current (linear) approaches to estimating the impact of threats may be misleading. We developed a data‐driven approach to assessing cumulative impacts on ecosystems and applied it to explore nonlinear relationships between threats and a temperate reef fish community. We used data on water quality, commercial fishing, climate change, and indicators of recreational fishing and urbanization to build a cumulative threat map of the northern region in New South Wales, Australia. We used statistical models of fish abundance to quantify associations among threats and biophysical covariates and predicted where cumulative impacts are likely to have the greatest impact on fish. We also assessed the performance of no‐take zones (NTZs), to protect fish from cumulative threats across 2 marine protected area networks (marine parks). Fishing had a greater impact on fish than water quality threats (i.e., percent increase above the mean for invertivores was 337% when fishing was removed and was 11% above the mean when water quality was removed inside NTZs), and fishing outside NTZs affected fish abundances inside NTZs. Quantifying the spatial influence of multiple threats enables managers to understand the multitude of management actions required to address threats.
Application of protection motivation theory in epidemic prevention in patients with respiratory diseases under the COVID‐19 pandemic: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Guan Jian , Zhang Yingying , You Shan , Li Yujing , Zhao Hongxing , Bu Weiqin , Xie Yanping
Published: September 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the effects of nursing intervention based on protection motivation theory (PMT) on patients with respiratory diseases in the context of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic.

Methods

A total of 74 patients with respiratory diseases who were hospitalized from June 2020 to February 2021 were enrolled and stratified into a control group (n = 37) and an experimental group (n = 37) according to a stratified random sampling method. The control group adopted a routine nursing intervention program of the respiratory department, whereas the experimental group received a PMT‐based nursing intervention program on the basis of the control group. Chronic Disease Self‐Management Study Measures (CDSMS) and Self‐Efficacy for Managing Chronic Diseases 6‐item Scale (SECD6) were used to evaluate the effect of PMT intervention before intervention, after 1 week, and after 4 weeks of intervention. The levels of forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC and peak expiratory flow (PEF) were measured to evaluate pulmonary function.

Results

Before the intervention, there were no significant differences in the scores of CDSMS and SECD6 scales and liver function indexes between the two groups (p > 0.05). After 1 and 4 weeks of intervention, the scores of CDSMS and SECD6 scales of the experimental group were significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.0001). The indexes of pulmonary function of the experimental group were improved, but there was no significant difference compared with the control group (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Nursing intervention based on PMT contributes to the improvement of self‐management behaviors and self‐efficacy, which is conducive to the prognoses of patients.
Pitfalls in diagnosing a case of extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma with CD20 aberrant expression and IGH gene rearrangement
Authors: Liu Chenxi , Li Fan , Mao Chunyan , Dangzeng Zhuoma , Wang Lin
Published: September 2023

Extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma (ENKTL) is a subtype of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma mainly derived from NK cells and, uncommonly, T‐cells. A diagnostic challenge is presented when an atypical phenotype and gene rearrangement are encountered. Herein, we report a case of ENKTL with CD20 expression and IGH gene rearrangement, which is extremely rare. A 57‐year‐old female patient was seen in 2021 due to a nodule on her left leg and simultaneously impaired eyesight for 6 months. Skin biopsy and immunohistochemistry were performed. The lymphoid cells were positive for CD3, CD56, granzyme B, and TIA‐1, partially positive for CD2, and mildly positive for CD20. In situ hybridization for Epstein–Barr virus was positive. Molecular studies revealed immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) gene rearrangement, while no T‐cell receptor gene rearrangement was detected. The positron emission tomography scan showed that the lymphoma affected bilateral adrenal glands, pelvic cavity, peritoneal cavity, small intestine, skin, and subcutis of the bilateral lower extremities of the patient. Her disease progressed despite eight cycles of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The importance of this case lies in the atypical phenotype and IGH gene rearrangements, necessitating comprehensive interpretation of clinicopathological data.
Chronicles of Debt Crises Foretold
Authors: Chowdhury Anis , Sundaram Jomo Kwame
Published: September 2023

The debt crises looming in developing countries are being exacerbated by changing debt composition. Declining net foreign exchange earnings have worsened their predicament. As concessional development finance declined, many governments turned to riskier forms of borrowing from international capital markets. Concerted interest rate hikes are supposed to stem inflation; however, given that prices have mainly risen due to supply chain disruptions caused by war, sanctions and pandemic, interest rate increases are likely to trigger more debt crises, much worse than before. Current discourses, for example about China's ‘debt trap’ diplomacy, distract from urgently needed international and national measures to avert the looming debt crises.
No evidence of compensatory changes in energy balance, despite reductions in body weight and liver fat, during dapagliflozin treatment in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over trial (ENERGIZE)
Authors: Rajeev Surya Panicker , Roberts Carl Alexander , Brown Emily , Sprung Victoria S. , Harrold Jo A. , Halford Jason C. G. , Stancak Andrej , Boyland Emma J. , Kemp Graham J. , Perry Julie , Howarth Elaine , Jackson Richard , Wiemken Andrew , Schwab Richard , Cuthbertson Daniel J. , Wilding John P. H.
Published: September 2023

Aim

This study assessed the impact of dapagliflozin on food intake, eating behaviour, energy expenditure, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐determined brain response to food cues and body composition in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D).

Materials and Methods

Patients were given dapagliflozin 10 mg once daily in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial with short‐term (1 week) and long‐term (12 weeks) cross‐over periods. The primary outcome was the difference in test meal food intake between long‐term dapagliflozin and placebo treatment. Secondary outcomes included short‐term differences in test meal food intake, short‐ and long‐term differences in appetite and eating rate, energy expenditure and functional MRI brain activity in relation to food images. We determined differences in glycated haemoglobin, weight, liver fat (by 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy) and subcutaneous/visceral adipose tissue volumes (by MRI).

Results

In total, 52 patients (43% were women) were randomized; with the analysis of 49 patients: median age 58 years, weight 99.1 kg, body mass index 35 kg/m2, glycated haemoglobin 49 mmol/mol. Dapagliflozin reduced glycated haemoglobin by 9.7 mmol/mol [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.91‐16.27, p = .004], and body weight (−2.84 vs. −0.87 kg) versus placebo. There was no short‐ or long‐term difference in test meal food intake between dapagliflozin and placebo [mean difference 5.7 g (95% CI −127.9 to 139.3, p = .933); 15.8 g (95% CI −147.7 to 116.1, p = .813), respectively] nor in the rate of eating, energy expenditure, appetite, or brain responses to food cues. Liver fat (median reduction −4.7 vs. 1.95%), but not subcutaneous/visceral adipose tissue, decreased significantly with 12 weeks of dapagliflozin.

Conclusions

The reduction in body weight and liver fat with dapagliflozin was not associated with compensatory adaptations in food intake or energy expenditure.
Taxonomical re‐examination of the genus Phyllosticta—Parasitic fungi on Cupressaceae trees in Japan
Authors: Hattori Yukako , Motohashi Keiichi , Tanaka Kazuaki , Nakashima Chiharu
Published: September 2023

Taxonomical re‐examination of the Phyllosticta species parasitic fungi on coniferous trees (Cupressaceae) in Japan was conducted based on current criteria, such as morphological and cultural characteristics, phylogenetic relationship and pathogenicity. Phylogenetic analyses revealed several clades composed of plant pathogens isolated from a specific host as well as clades composed of endophytic species isolated from various Cupressaceae trees. Each clade was recognized as a species from the morphological characteristics and other features, respectively. Five species of Phyllosticta sensu stricto were recognized, and two of them were newly recorded in Japanese mycoflora. Furthermore, new comibination P. pilospora and its epitype are proposed. The epitype and ex‐type strain are also proposed for P. cryptomeriae in this study.
Natural Ti‐Rich Mineral (Ilmenite, Titanite and Perovskite) Reference Materials for In Situ Ti Isotopic Measurement by LA‐MC‐ICP‐MS
Authors: Liu Hong , Deng Zhengbin , Hu Zhaochu , Zhang Wen , Schiller Martin , Bizzarro Martin , Liu Yongsheng , Wang Zaicong , Feng Lanping , Li Ming
Published: September 2023

Iron‐titanium oxides such as ilmenite (FeTiO3), titanite (CaTiSiO5) and perovskite (CaTiO3) are the common Ti‐rich mineral phases crystallised during magmatic and metamorphic processes on Earth. Depending on magma types or conditions of phase equilibria, formation of these Ti‐rich minerals can result in Ti isotopic fractionation in the range of ‐1.52‰ to +2.90‰ on δ49TiOL‐Ti (i.e., the per mil difference of 49Ti/47Ti ratio relative to the OL‐Ti reference material), making the Ti isotope ratios of these minerals potential tracers for conditions of magmatism and metamorphism. Due to their resistance to aqueous alteration, these Ti‐rich accessory minerals are also commonly present as pristine, detrital phases in sedimentary rocks, which offer an opportunity to study the evolution of magmatism and metamorphism throughout the Earth's geological history. Here we have developed a novel technique for in situ Ti isotopic measurement in ilmenite, titanite and perovskite using femtosecond laser ablation multi‐collector inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (fs‐LA‐MC‐ICP‐MS) under wet plasma conditions. Samples were ablated with different laser spot sizes (15–50 μm) and different laser energy densities (0.6–4.2 J cm‐2) to obtain adequate Ti signal intensity at a fixed laser repetition rate of 2 Hz. When 49Ti signal intensity of samples ranged from 0.3 to 3.7 V, no significant signal‐dependent Ti isotopic fractionation was observed under wet plasma conditions. Repeated measurements on twelve Ti‐rich minerals using different analytical protocols provided comparable δ49TiOL‐Ti values within uncertainties, confirming the accuracy of the proposed fs‐LA‐MC‐ICP‐MS method. With one exception (i.e., RUS1), all analysed minerals are homogeneous in their Ti isotopic compositions between individual chips with an intermediate precision of ±0.13‰ to ±0.17‰ (2s) on δ49TiOL‐Ti. Collectively, these minerals record a significant δ49TiOL‐Ti variation ranging from ‐0.46‰ to +2.12‰. These warrant the suitability of these materials as Ti isotopic reference materials for in situ Ti isotopic measurement.
Maternal intrapartum fever during epidural labour analgesia: Incidence and influencing factors
Authors: Yuan Jinhua , Jin Aiying , Shen Jie , Chen Youguo , Huang Qin , Xiang Haiyan
Published: September 2023

Background

The management and nursing care of women's temperature during delivery is an important part of clinical obstetrics. We aimed to evaluate maternal intrapartum fever during epidural labour analgesia to provide evidence for the management and care of women in labour.

Methods

This study was conducted and reported according to the STROBE statement. Women in labour undergoing epidural labour analgesia in our hospital from 1 January 2021 to 31 August 2022 were retrospectively selected. The characteristics of women in labour with and without intrapartum fever were compared. Pearson correlation and logistic regression analysis were used to analyse the influencing factors of postpartum fever.

Results

A total of 196 women in labour were included, the incidence of maternal intrapartum fever in women in labour undergoing epidural analgesia was 27.5%. Pearson correlation analyses showed that BMI, oxytocin use, labour duration, number of vaginal examinations, time from rupture of the foetal membranes to the end of labour and duration of epidural analgesia were all correlated with the occurrence of intrapartum fever (all P < 0.05). Logistic regression analyses indicated that body mass index ≥28 kg/m2(OR = 1.825), oxytocin use (OR = 2.082), labour duration ≥9.2 h (OR = 2.613), number of vaginal examinations ≥8 (OR = 2.044–3.115), the time from rupture of the foetal membranes to the end of labour ≥250 min (OR = 2.766) and duration of epidural analgesia ≥300 min (OR = 3.106) were risk factors for intrapartum fever in women in labour undergoing epidural analgesia (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Maternal intrapartum fever in women in labour undergoing epidural analgesia is common and influenced by many factors. Nurses should take early preventive care measures according to these factors during epidural analgesia in labour.
Exposure of Tritrichomonas foetus to sublethal doses of metronidazole induces a specific proinflammatory response in murine macrophages
Authors: Ceballos‐Góngora Emanuel , Torres‐Romero Julio César , Arana‐Argáez Victor Ermilo , Alvarez‐Sánchez María Elizbeth , Acosta‐Viana Karla , Euan‐Canto Antonio , Alvarez‐Sánchez Leidi Cristal
Published: September 2023

Tritrichomonas foetus is a flagellated parasite that primarily infects the reproductive tissues of livestock, causing bovine trichomoniasis. The cytoplasmic membrane of T. foetus contains various compounds that contribute to adherence, colonization, and pathogenicity. Metronidazole (MTZ) is the main treatment for trichomoniasis, but the emergence of drug‐resistant strains is a concern due to improper use and dosing. T. foetus infection induces inflammation, and macrophages are key players in the immune response. However, our understanding of the host's immune response to T. foetus is limited, and the specific mechanisms underlying these responses are not well understood. This study aimed to investigate the impact of T. foetus surface proteins from trophozoites cultured under different sublethal MTZ conditions (MTZ‐treated T. foetus MPs) on macrophage activation. By analyzing cytokine levels and gene expression in murine macrophages, we demonstrated that MTZ‐treated T. foetus MPs induce a specific proinflammatory response. MTZ‐treated T. foetus MPs‐exposed macrophages exhibited a higher NO and H2O2 production and overexpression of iNOS and NOX‐2 genes in comparison to untreated T. foetus. Additionally, MTZ‐treated T. foetus MPs triggered a significant induction of the proinflammatory cytokines IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α, and IFN‐γ, as well as the overexpression of the TLR4, MyD88, and NF‐κB genes on murine macrophages. The study aimed to unravel the immunological response and potential proinflammatory pathways involved in T. foetus infection and MTZ stress. Understanding the immune responses and mechanisms through which T. foetus surface proteins activate macrophages can contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies for controlling bovine trichomoniasis.
Mitochondrial phylogeny of fusilier fishes (family Caesionidae) from the Laccadive archipelago reveals a new species and two new records from the Central Indian Ocean
Authors: Kar Chinmay , Mariyambi Puthiyara Chetta , Raghavan Rajeev , Sureshkumar Sivanpillai
Published: September 2023

Fusiliers of the family Caesionidae comprise a group of Indo‐Pacific reef fishes important in the live bait and artisanal fisheries in many parts of its range, particularly in the Indian Ocean region. Using newly generated mitochondrial COI sequences of 10 species of caesionid fishes from the Laccadive archipelago, we carried out a molecular phylogenetic analysis, which has helped improve our understanding of the diversity, distribution, and systematics of this poorly known group of fishes. The two speciose genera within Caesionidae, Caesio and Pterocaesio, were revealed to be paraphyletic, and as a result, four names earlier considered as subgenera within Caesionidae (Flavicaesio, Odontonectes, Pisinnicaesio, and Squamosicaesio) were elevated to the status of distinct genera. We also discovered the presence of a new lineage in the Central Indian Ocean, sister to Caesio caerulaurea and Caesio xanthalytos, but distinct from both in several morphological characters and a genetic distance of between 2% and 3% in the mitochondrial COI gene. We describe this lineage as Caesio idreesi, a new species, with a distribution spanning the Laccadive Sea and the Bay of Bengal. Our genetic data also helped confirm the first confirmed records of two species, Pisinnicaesio digramma and Squamosicaesio randalli, from the Central Indian Ocean, and a new distribution record for C. xanthalytos in the Laccadive Sea. Combined, these results have helped bridge key biodiversity knowledge gaps of the family Caesionidae and form an excellent baseline for further investigations on their taxonomy, systematics, and life history.
Exploring the terminological validity of ‘chronic pain’ nursing diagnosis: A retrospective descriptive study using nursing diaries
Authors: Ramacciati Nicola , Metlichin Elisabetta , Giusti Gian Domenico
Published: September 2023

Aim

The aim of this study is to generate empirical evidence, drawing from clinical records, with the goal of elevating the level of evidence supporting the nursing diagnosis (ND) of ‘chronic pain’.

Background

Chronic pain is a prevalent condition that affects all age groups. Patients often feel disbelieved about their pain perception, leading to adverse psychological effects, difficulty accessing healthcare and poor rehabilitation outcomes.

Design

Retrospective descriptive study. Standards for Reporting Diagnostic Accuracy Studies guidelines were followed in this study.

Methods

Data were extracted from Electronic Health Records (EHR) of patients admitted to the University Hospital of Perugia, Italy, between March 2016 and December 2022. The study sample comprised individuals without a specific medical diagnosis or high‐risk population. Out of 1,048,565 EHR, 43,341 clinical‐nursing diaries with the keyword ‘pain’ were identified, from which 283 clinical‐nursing notes were selected based on a keyword‐based retrieval technique and diagnostic definition for further analysis.

Results

Our study findings support the diagnostic descriptors of the ‘chronic pain’ ND in clinical‐nursing diaries. We observed the presence of 9 out of 11 defining characteristics, 7 out of 10 related factors, 4 out of 8 at‐risk populations and 11 out of 17 associated conditions.

Conclusions

The study validated diagnostic criteria for chronic pain and proposed ‘haematological pathology’ as a new associated condition. The findings were presented to the Diagnosis Development Committee of NANDA‐International for further review. However, limitations of the study prompted the need for further analysis using natural language processing and artificial neural network techniques. As a result, a new research direction using artificial intelligence (AI) tools was initiated.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The study validates diagnostic descriptors for chronic pain and proposes future directions in semantic analysis and AI tools, aiming to enhance clinical practice and decision‐making in nursing care.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.