bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2213 The prevalence of medication-related harm in people with dementia – a systematic review
Authors: Carabine F , Hughes CM , Barry HE
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Medication-related harm (MRH) is defined as any negative outcome, harm or injury caused by taking a medication (Falconer et al. Eur J Clin Pharmacol, 2018;75(2):137–145). People living with dementia (PLWD) take more medications than those without dementia, increasing their risk of MRH (Mueller et al. Exp Gerontol 2018;106:240–245). There is urgent need to explore the scale of MRH affecting PLWD. This systematic review aimed to determine the prevalence of MRH in PLWD and evaluate various outcomes to assess its impact.

Methods

Twelve databases were systematically searched for articles published in English from date of inception to April 2023. Papers of any study design reporting on the prevalence and/or outcomes of MRH in PLWD were eligible for inclusion. Quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk Of Bias tool for randomised trials (ROB-2) or the Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies of Exposures (ROBINS-E). Due to lack of consensus on the definition of MRH and the heterogeneity of included studies, a narrative synthesis will be undertaken.

Results

In total, 5951 articles were identified, and 4946 remained following removal of duplicates. After title/abstract screening, 419 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. Ninety-eight studies were included in the review. Quality assessment is ongoing. Overall, 29 studies investigated adverse drug events, affecting 5–83% of participants, and 22 studies assessed mortality associated with drug use, with most reporting an increase in mortality. Antipsychotics were the most commonly implicated medication class, studied in 24 papers.

Conclusion

This systematic review is the first to report on the prevalence of MRH in PLWD. However, it will not be possible to conduct a meta-analysis to fully analyse the scale of this issue. This review will identify gaps in the current evidence base and inform future research aiming to explore factors contributing to, and ways to reduce, PLWD experiencing MRH.
2153 Yesavage geriatric depression scale (GDS) and mini mental test as characterisation tools in a south American cohort with type 2
Authors: Medina M , Dulcey L , Amaya M , Gomez J , Vargas J , Lizcano A , Hernández C , Ciliberti M , Blanco J , Estévez M , Castillo S , Gutiérrez E , Angulo R , Martínez J , Acevedo D , Arias A , Ramos G
Published: August 2024

Introduction

T2DM is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. In older adults, T2DM may be associated with an increased risk of two serious conditions: cognitive impairment and depression.

Objective

The aim of this research was to assess the mental health of older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Mérida, Venezuela. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted with 100 older adults with T2DM and 100 older adults without T2DM. Two assessment instruments were used: the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) to assess cognitive function and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) to assess depression.

Results

The results showed that older adults with T2DM had a higher risk of cognitive impairment and depression than older adults without T2DM. In particular, 25% of older adults with T2DM were cognitively impaired, compared to 5% of older adults without T2DM. In addition, 20% of older adults with T2DM had depression, compared to 10% of older adults without T2DM.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that older adults with T2DM are at increased risk of cognitive impairment and depression. It is important for health professionals to be aware of these risks and provide interventions to prevent or treat them.
2318 The interrelationship between multiple long-term conditions (MLTC) and delirium: a scoping review
Authors: Richardson SJ , Cropp AD , Ellis SW , Gibbon J , Sayer AA , Witham MD
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Delirium and multiple long-term conditions (MLTC) share numerous risk factors and have been shown individually to be associated with adverse outcomes following hospitalisation. However, the extent to which these common ageing syndromes have been studied together is unknown. This scoping review aims to summarise our knowledge to date on the interrelationship between MLTC and delirium.

Methods

Searches including terms for delirium and MLTC in adult human participants were performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, Psycinfo and CINAHL. Descriptive analysis was used to summarise findings, structured according to Synthesis Without Meta-analysis reporting guidelines.

Results

After removing duplicates, 5256 abstracts were screened for eligibility, with 313 full-texts sought along with 17 additional full-texts from references in review articles. 151 met inclusion criteria and were included in the final review. Much of the literature focusing on hospitalised participants (n = 140) explored MLTC as a risk factor for delirium (n = 125). Fewer studies explored the impact of MLTC on delirium presentation (n = 5), duration (n = 3) or outcomes (n = 6) and no studies explored how MLTC impacts the treatment of delirium or whether having delirium increases risk of developing MLTC. The most frequently used measures of MLTC and delirium were the Charlson Comorbidity Index (n = 107/151) and Confusion Assessment Method (n = 88/151), respectively.

Conclusion

Existing literature largely evaluates MLTC as a risk factor for delirium. Major knowledge gaps identified include the impact of MLTC on delirium treatment and the effect of delirium on MLTC trajectories. Current research in this field is limited by significant heterogeneity in defining both MLTC and delirium.
2346 Modified hospital frailty risk score (mHFRS) as a tool to identify frail hospitalised older adults
Authors: Rosario BH , Sim LE , Lim A , Selvaratnam T , Chang TY , Conroy S
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Frailty is common in hospitalised older adults. This study compared efficacy of a modified Hospital Frailty Risk Score (mHFRS) to standard HFRS and Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) to determine whether mHFRS can be used to identify frail hospitalised patients.

Methods

Anonymised retrospective review of Electronic Health Records was undertaken in patients = > 65 years old attending the Emergency Department (ED) and admitted to hospital 1st July 2022 to 31st March 2023. mHFRS utilises 2 prior emergency admissions within 2 years to generate a frailty risk score, whereas HFRS requires an index admission plus 2 prior emergency admissions. Hospitalisation outcomes and predictive models were evaluated with correlation and measures of agreement between CFS and HFRS, CFS and mHFRS using Spearman’s rank correlation and Cohen’s kappa.

Results

Of 3042 patients, CFS categorised 1635 patients as non-frail (CFS 1–4) and 1407 as frail (CFS 5–9). Using mHFRS, only 1623 patients could be categorised and of these, 608 were deemed low, 657 intermediate and 358 high risk of frailty. Frail patients were older (81.8 years, SD 8.41 vs 75.3 years, SD 7.20, p = <.001), had significantly longer LOS (52.5% % vs 31.5%, p = <0.001), higher 30-day unplanned hospital readmissions (18.5% vs 9.9%, p = <0.001), and higher in-patient (6.1% vs 2.0%, p < 0.001), 30-day (9.1% vs 2.3%, p < 0.001), and 90-day (15.8% vs 5.1%, p < 0.001) mortality. mHFRS achieved comparable association with hospitalisation outcomes compared to CFS & HFRS. Cohens’s kappa, showed fair agreement across HFRS and mHFRS, κ of 0.235 0.243 respectively. mHFRS was less sensitive at identifying frail patients but had better specificity to identify non frail patients.

Conclusion

mHFRS is a comparable frailty screening tool that doesn’t require clinical assessment but is standardised and easy to use in those who can be scored.
Osteoarthritis, osteoarthritis treatment and risk of incident dementia: a prospective cohort study based on UK Biobank
Authors: Guo Rong , Ou Ya-Nan , Ma Li-Yun , Tang Lian , Yang Liu , Feng Jian-Feng , Cheng Wei , Tan Lan , Yu Jin-Tai
Published: August 2024

Background

We aimed to investigate the association between OA and treatment with dementia risk and structural brain abnormalities.

Methods

We recruited a total of 466,460 individuals from the UK Biobank to investigate the impact of OA on the incidence of dementia. Among the total population, there were 63,081 participants diagnosed with OA. We subsequently categorised the OA patients into medication and surgery groups based on treatment routes. Cox regression models explored the associations between OA/OA treatment and dementia risk, with the results represented as hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Linear regression models assessed the associations of OA/OA therapy with alterations in cortical structure.

Results

During an average of 11.90 (± 1.01) years of follow-up, 5,627 individuals were diagnosed with all-cause dementia (ACD), including 2,438 AD (Alzheimer’s disease), and 1,312 VaD (vascular dementia) cases. Results revealed that OA was associated with the elevated risk of ACD (HR: 1.116; 95% CI: 1.039–1.199) and AD (HR: 1.127; 95% CI: 1.013–1.254). OA therapy lowered the risk of dementia in both medication group (HR: 0.746; 95% CI: 0.652–0.854) and surgery group (HR: 0.841; 95% CI: 0.736–0.960). OA was negatively associated with cortical area, especially precentral, postcentral and temporal regions.

Conclusions

Osteoarthritis increased the likelihood of developing dementia, and had an association with regional brain atrophy. OA treatment lowered the dementia risk. OA is a promising modifiable risk factor for dementia.
Introduction to network meta-analysis: understanding what it is, how it is done, and how it can be used for decision-making
Authors: Brignardello-Petersen Romina , Guyatt Gordon H
Published: August 2024

Network meta-analysis (NMA), a statistical technique that allows systematic reviewers to simultaneously compare more than 2 alternatives, makes use of indirect evidence from studies comparing interventions of interest to a common comparator. The capacity for multiple simultaneous comparisons makes NMA appealing for evidence-based decision-makers. This article, aimed at users of systematic reviews (SRs) with NMAs and at those who are considering conducting SRs with NMAs, provides an introductory level overview of this topic. We describe the main considerations that those conducting systematic reviews with NMA should bear in mind, including decisions regarding grouping interventions into analysis nodes, and testing the assumptions that assure the validity of NMA. We explain and illustrate how both systematic reviewers and users should draw conclusions from NMA that are appropriate and useful for decision-making. Finally, we provide a list of tools that facilitate the conduct and interpretation of NMAs.
Genetics and plasticity of white leaf mark variegation in white clover (Trifolium repens L.)
Authors: Kuo Wen-Hsi , Cunningham Eimear , Guo Emily , Olsen Kenneth M
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

Leaf variegation is common in plants and confers diverse adaptive functions. However, its genetic underpinnings remain largely unresolved; this is particularly true for variegation that arises through modified leaf tissue structure that affects light reflection. White clover is naturally polymorphic for structure-based white leaf mark variegation. It therefore provides a useful system in which to examine the genetic basis of this phenotype and to assess potential costs to photosynthetic efficiency resulting from modified leaf structures. In this study, we sought to map the loci controlling the white leaf mark in white clover and to evaluate the relationship between white leaf mark, leaf thickness and photosynthetic efficiency.

Methods

We generated a high-density genetic linkage map from an F3 mapping population, using reference genome-based single nucleotide polymorphism markers. White leaf mark was quantified through detailed phenotypic evaluations alongside leaf thickness to test how tissue thickness might affect the variegation phenotype. Mapping of quantitative trait loci was performed to characterize their genetic basis. Photosynthetic efficiency measurements were used to test for physiological trade-offs between variegation and photosynthetic output.

Key Results

The V locus, a major gene responsible for the white leaf mark polymorphism, was mapped to the distal end of chromosome 5, and several modifier loci were also mapped that contribute additively to the intensity of variegation. The presence and intensity of white leaf mark were associated with greater leaf thickness; however, increased variegation did not affect photosynthetic efficiency detectably.

Conclusions

We have successfully mapped the major locus governing the white leaf mark in white clover, along with several modifier loci, revealing a complex basis for this structure-based variegation. The apparent absence of compromised photosynthesis in variegated leaves challenges the notion that variegation creates fitness trade-offs between photosynthetic efficiency and other adaptive functions. This finding suggests that other factors might maintain the white leaf mark polymorphism in white clover.
Predation risk elicits a negative relationship between boldness and growth in Helisoma snails
Authors: Toscano Benjamin J , Allegue Hassen , Bauloye Daniel , Drausnik Marta , Orloff Peyton
Published: August 2024

The relationship between risk-prone behavior and growth is central to tradeoff models that explain the existence and maintenance of among-individual variation in behavior (i.e. animal personality). These models posit positive relationships between among-individual variation in risk-prone behaviors and growth, yet how the strength and direction of such relationships depend on ecological conditions is unclear. We tested how different levels of predation risk from crayfish (Faxonius limosus) mediate the association between among-individual variation in snail (Helisoma trivolvis) boldness (emergence time) and growth in shell size. We found that crayfish predation risk reduced snail growth but that the effect of snail boldness on individual growth was context-dependent—snail boldness was unrelated to growth in the absence of risk and under high risk, but shy snails grew faster than bold snails under low predation risk. Other traits (snail size, body condition, and intrinsic growth rate measured under ad libitum food conditions) failed to explain snail growth variation under any risk level. Though opposite to the prediction of tradeoff models, enhanced growth of shy snails could function as a predator defense mechanism that protects their prospects for future reproduction consistent with the underlying premise of tradeoff models. Thus, our results highlight the importance of accounting for ecological conditions in understanding behavior–life history associations.
Down-regulation of PCBP2 suppresses the invasion and migration of trophoblasts via the WNT5A/ROR2 pathway in preeclampsia
Authors: Chen Zhenlie , Zhong Wen , Zhang Ruiqing , Li Guigui , Zhang Yuanzhen , Zhang Ming
Published: August 2024

Impaired extravillous trophoblast (EVT) invasion and resulted poor placentation play a vital role in the development of preeclampsia (PE). However, the underlying mechanisms of dysregulated EVTs remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the role of poly (C)-binding protein 2 (PCBP2), a multifunctional RNA-binding protein, in the pathogenesis of PE and to investigate the detailed signaling pathway. Using qRT-PCR, western blot, and immunohistochemistry, we confirmed that the expression of PCBP2 significantly decreased in placentas from 18 early-onset PE and 30 late-onset PE in comparison to those from 30 normotensive pregnancies. Besides, more significant suppression of PCBP2 was observed in the early-onset type. After transfection of HTR-8/SVneo with small-interfering RNA specific to PCBP2, the cellular biological behaviors including vitality, immigration, invasiveness, and apoptosis were evaluated by CCK-8 assay, wound-healing assay, transwell assay, and flow cytometry respectively. RNA-seq was applied to screen differentially expressed genes in HTR-8/SVneo upon PCBP2 silencing. GO and KEGG analysis indicated that WNT signaling pathway and the related processes such as extracellular matrix remodeling and cell adhesion were among the most enriched pathways or processes. Meanwhile, the alternative splicing of WNT5A regulated by PCBP2 was also identified by RIP-seq. Based on HTR-8/SVneo and villous explant, the regulatory roles of PCBP2 on trophoblast were confirmed to be mediated by WNT5A. Besides, it revealed that ROR2/JNK/MMP2/9 pathway was a vital pathway downstream WNT5A in trophoblast cells. In conclusion, this study suggests that down-regulated PCBP2 impaired the functions of EVTs via suppression of WNT5A-mediating ROR2/JNK/MMPs pathway, which may eventually contribute to the development of PE.
“Middle East conflict in Berlin schools”: on the affectability of “fake news”
Authors: Haritaworn Jin
Published: August 2024

The article revisits my older work on moral panics over “Muslim homophobia” and youth crime to make sense of the arrival of a new criminalized figure: the Palestinian school kid who becomes prone to terrorism and antisemitism after consuming “fake news” on social and Arabic-language media. It addresses the current outbreak of anti-Palestinian racism in Germany as the latest expansion of an archive of criminalization that targets young people who, far from innocent and deserving of care and education, are constructed as folk devils that require heavy-handed punishment, segregation and deportation. While former panics have singled out the problematic heterosexualities of Muslim populations that fail to catch up with women-and-LGBT-friendly communities that care about diversity, the debate about the “Middle East conflict in Berlin schools” foregrounds media use as a central determinant of cultural pathology. This departure from languages of care and diversity, the article argues, reflects a dehumanizing tendency in racial capitalism that appears increasingly undisguised.
Developing a framework for equitable media literacy practice: Voices from the field
Authors: Johnson Patrick R , Tully Melissa , Foster Bobbie , Mihailidis Paul , Ramasubramanian Srividya , Burth Shannon K , Riewestahl Emily
Published: August 2024

The article presents a framework for equitable media literacy practice (EMLP), which changes structure, action, and agency in service of an imagined and inclusive future and makes space for equitable civic and educational experiences. We derived this framework from 28 in-depth interviews with media literacy practitioners across the US. We asked these practitioners what EMLP would mean to them and what challenges and opportunities for EMLP emerge within their individual and organizational contexts. Interviewees acknowledge that equity is difficult to achieve given daily individual, community, and social concerns but is an important component of civic engagement.
High segregation and diminished global integration in large-scale brain functional networks enhances the perceptual binding of cross-modal stimuli
Authors: Shyamchand Singh Soibam , Mukherjee Abhishek , Raghunathan Partha , Ray Dipanjan , Banerjee Arpan
Published: August 2024

Speech perception requires the binding of spatiotemporally disjoint auditory–visual cues. The corresponding brain network-level information processing can be characterized by two complementary mechanisms: functional segregation which refers to the localization of processing in either isolated or distributed modules across the brain, and integration which pertains to cooperation among relevant functional modules. Here, we demonstrate using functional magnetic resonance imaging recordings that subjective perceptual experience of multisensory speech stimuli, real and illusory, are represented in differential states of segregation–integration. We controlled the inter-subject variability of illusory/cross-modal perception parametrically, by introducing temporal lags in the incongruent auditory–visual articulations of speech sounds within the McGurk paradigm. The states of segregation–integration balance were captured using two alternative computational approaches. First, the module responsible for cross-modal binding of sensory signals defined as the perceptual binding network (PBN) was identified using standardized parametric statistical approaches and their temporal correlations with all other brain areas were computed. With increasing illusory perception, the majority of the nodes of PBN showed decreased cooperation with the rest of the brain, reflecting states of high segregation but reduced global integration. Second, using graph theoretic measures, the altered patterns of segregation–integration were cross-validated.
Infectious Diseases Society of America 2024 Guidance on the Treatment of Antimicrobial-Resistant Gram-Negative Infections
Authors: Tamma Pranita D , Heil Emily L , Justo Julie Ann , Mathers Amy J , Satlin Michael J , Bonomo Robert A
Published: August 2024

The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) is committed to providing up-to-date guidance on the treatment of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) infections. This guidance document focuses on infections caused by extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-E), AmpC β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (AmpC-E), carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE), Pseudomonas aeruginosa with difficult-to-treat resistance (DTR P. aeruginosa), carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB), and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. This updated document replaces previous versions of the guidance document. A panel of 6 infectious diseases specialists with expertise in managing antimicrobial-resistant infections formulated questions about the treatment of infections caused by ESBL-E, AmpC-E, CRE, DTR P. aeruginosa, CRAB, and S. maltophilia. Because of differences in the epidemiology of AMR and availability of specific anti-infectives internationally, this document focuses on the treatment of AMR infections in the United States. Preferred and alternative suggested treatment approaches are provided with accompanying rationales, assuming the causative organism has been identified and antibiotic susceptibility results are known. Approaches to empiric treatment, transitioning to oral therapy, duration of therapy, and other management considerations are discussed briefly. Suggested approaches apply for both adult and pediatric populations, although suggested antibiotic dosages are provided only for adults. The field of AMR is highly dynamic. Consultation with an infectious diseases specialist is recommended for the treatment of AMR infections. This document is current as of December 31, 2023 and will be updated periodically. The most current version of this document, including date of publication, is available at www.idsociety.org/practice-guideline/amr-guidance/.
Drought shocks and labour reallocation in rural Africa: evidence from Ethiopia
Authors: Musungu Arnold L , Kubik Zaneta , Qaim Matin
Published: August 2024

We study how rural households in Ethiopia adapt to droughts through labour reallocation. Using three waves of panel data and exploiting spatio-temporal variations in drought exposure, we find that households reduce on-farm work and increase off-farm self-employment in response to both short-term and persistent droughts, without abandoning family farming. Diversification into off-farm activities is driven by drought-related productivity declines in agriculture and contributes to consumption smoothing and food security. Households with better access to financial services are more likely to reallocate labour off-farm. Our results highlight the importance of strengthening the rural non-farm economy to enhance rural households’ climate resilience.
Are educational aspirations associated with susceptibility to smoking, e-cigarette use, and smokeless tobacco use in adolescence?
Authors: Ollila Hanna , Konttinen Hanna , Ruokolainen Otto , Karvonen Sakari
Published: August 2024

The early socio-economic differences in smoking build on the interplay between individual-, family-, peer-, and school-related factors. The present study aimed to add knowledge to this by examining susceptibility to smoking (S-SM), electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use (S-EC), and smokeless tobacco (snus) use (S-SN) by educational aspirations in a country with advanced tobacco control policies. National cross-sectional School Health Promotion study survey was conducted among 8.–9. grade students (av. 15-year-olds) in 2017 with no prior smoking (n = 47 589), e-cigarette use (n = 49 382), or snus use (n = 53 335). Gender-stratified, age-adjusted multilevel logistic regression analyses with S-SM, S-EC, and S-SN were considered as outcomes and student- and school-level (aggregated) factors were considered as independent variables. The highest prevalence was observed for S-EC (girls 29%, boys 35%), followed by S-SM (16%, 15%) and S-SN (10%, 16%). Compared to those planning for general upper secondary education, S-SM was the highest for those without educational aspirations (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.04–1.40), S-EC for those planning for vocational education [1.15 (1.05–1.25)], and S-SN for those planning for extra year/discontinuation [1.65 (1.04–2.60)] among girls. Among boys, both S-SM [1.37 (1.23–1.52)] and S-EC [1.19 (1.09–1.29)] were the highest among those planning for vocational education, with no clear associations with S-SN. Current other tobacco/e-cigarette use [OR range 1.27–8.87], positive attitude towards product use in one’s age group [3.55–6.63], and liking school [0.58–0.68] consistently associated with susceptibility. Students not planning for academically oriented education had higher susceptibility to different nicotine products. High S-EC warrants monitoring to strengthen policy evaluation and prevention.
Isolation and characterization of novel acetogenic Moorella strains for employment as potential thermophilic biocatalysts
Authors: Böer Tim , Engelhardt Lisa , Lüschen Alina , Eysell Lena , Yoshida Hiroki , Schneider Dominik , Angenent Largus T , Basen Mirko , Daniel Rolf , Poehlein Anja
Published: August 2024

Thermophilic acetogenic bacteria have attracted attention as promising candidates for biotechnological applications such as syngas fermentation, microbial electrosynthesis, and methanol conversion. Here, we aimed to isolate and characterize novel thermophilic acetogens from diverse environments. Enrichment of heterotrophic and autotrophic acetogens was monitored by 16S rRNA gene-based bacterial community analysis. Seven novel Moorella strains were isolated and characterized by genomic and physiological analyses. Two Moorella humiferrea isolates showed considerable differences during autotrophic growth. The M. humiferrea LNE isolate (DSM 117358) fermented carbon monoxide (CO) to acetate, while the M. humiferrea OCP isolate (DSM 117359) transformed CO to hydrogen and carbon dioxide (H2 + CO2), employing the water–gas shift reaction. Another carboxydotrophic hydrogenogenic Moorella strain was isolated from the covering soil of an active charcoal burning pile and proposed as the type strain (ACPsT) of the novel species Moorella carbonis (DSM 116161T and CCOS 2103T). The remaining four novel strains were affiliated with Moorella thermoacetica and showed, together with the type strain DSM 2955T, the production of small amounts of ethanol from H2 + CO2 in addition to acetate. The physiological analyses of the novel Moorella strains revealed isolate-specific differences that considerably increase the knowledge base on thermophilic acetogens for future applications.
Fungal primary and opportunistic pathogens: an ecological perspective
Authors: de Hoog Sybren , Tang Chao , Zhou Xin , Jacomel Bruna , Lustosa Bruno , Song Yinggai , Kandemir Hazal , A Ahmed Sarah , Zhou Shaoqin , Belmonte-Lopes Ricardo , Quan Yu , Feng Peiying , A Vicente Vania , Kang Yingqian
Published: August 2024

Fungal primary pathogenicity on vertebrates is here described as a deliberate strategy where the host plays a role in increasing the species’ fitness. Opportunism is defined as the coincidental survival of an individual strain in host tissue using properties that are designed for life in an entirely different habitat. In that case, the host's infection control is largely based on innate immunity, and the etiologic agent is not transmitted after infection, and thus fungal evolution is not possible. Primary pathogens encompass two types, depending on their mode of transmission. Environmental pathogens have a double life cycle, and tend to become enzootic, adapted to a preferred host in a particular habitat. In contrast, pathogens that have a host-to-host transmission pattern are prone to shift to a neighboring, immunologically naive host, potentially leading to epidemics. Beyond these prototypical life cycles, some environmental fungi are able to make large leaps between dissimilar hosts/habitats, probably due to the similarity of key factors enabling survival in an entirely different niche, and thus allowing a change from opportunistic to primary pathogenicity. Mostly, such factors seem to be associated with extremotolerance.
The effect of nursing interventions applied at home to improve rational use of medicines and awareness of elderly individuals: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Salbur Tugce , Altinel Busra , Cal Ayse
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nursing interventions applied to elderly individuals to improve rational use of medicines (RUM) and awareness through home visits. It was carried out in a prospective, randomized controlled experimental design with the pretest–post-test control group. The study was completed with 74 elderly individuals aged ≥65 years living in a rural area. The intervention group received education, counselling, brochures and pill boxes through home visits to increase RUM and awareness. The study data were collected between September and December 2022 using the face-to-face interview method, the elderly identification form, the Rational Use of Medicines Scale and the Rational Drug Use Awareness Scale. After nursing interventions were applied at home, it was determined that, the mean scores of RUM and Awareness of RUM of the intervention group increased compared to the control group and that, interventions to improve RUM and awareness were effective. In line with these results, training sessions on RUM should be organized periodically for elderly individuals and home visits should be planned by nurses at regular intervals to ensure the sustainability of RUM in the home environment.
Floral volatile benzenoids/phenylpropanoids: biosynthetic pathway, regulation and ecological value
Authors: Lv Mengwen , Zhang Ling , Wang Yizhou , Ma Linlin , Yang Yong , Zhou Xian , Wang Liangsheng , Yu Xiaonan , Li Shanshan
Published: August 2024

Benzenoids/phenylpropanoids, the second most diverse group of plant volatiles, exhibit significant structural diversity and play crucial roles in attracting pollinators and protecting against pathogens, insects, and herbivores. This review summarizes their complex biosynthetic pathways and regulatory mechanisms, highlighting their links to plant growth, development, hormone levels, circadian rhythms, and flower coloration. External factors like light, humidity, and temperature also influence their biosynthesis. Their ecological value is discussed, offering insights for enhancing floral scent, pollinator attraction, pest resistance, and metabolic engineering through genetic modification.
Spatio-temporal larval abundance dynamics of a depleted Baltic Sea herring ecotype
Authors: Ojaveer Henn , Huwer Bastian , Bekkevold Dorte , Einberg Heli , Clausen Lotte Worsøe , MacKenzie Brian R
Published: August 2024

Fish stocks composed of several populations are considered to have more stable productivity than stocks containing only one or few populations. This stability is attributed to complementary or independent dynamics among the populations within the stock—the so-called portfolio effect. Declines of populations within stocks that have delayed recovery potentially increase risk to productivity and local extinctions. Portfolio effects may be relevant in the Baltic Sea, where autumn-spawning herring was the dominant herring ecotype until the early/mid-20th century. The current fishery assessment and management in the area assumes that the abundance of autumn spawning herring has been negligible since the 1970s; the share of spring spawning herring has become dominant and is considered to be the only ecotype. Data from a multi-annual ichthyoplankton survey in the southern Baltic Sea (Bornholm Basin) during autumn 2002–2019 show that abundance and spatial distribution of the smallest larval stages have increased significantly. This pattern could be due to an increase in autumn spawners in the area. Genetic studies confirm that these larval herring are offspring from true autumn spawners. Preserving intraspecific diversity is critical for a species’ future abilities to adapt to and survive in changing environmental conditions. Thus, our results not only provide new insights to the temporal dynamics of herring ecotypes and challenge the current understanding of central Baltic herring stock processes in general, but are also important in the context of monitoring, assessment, and spatial management of herring in the Baltic Sea.
Infinitude of Palindromic Almost-Prime Numbers
Authors: Tuxanidy Aleksandr , Panario Daniel
Published: August 2024

It is proven that, in any given base, there are infinitely many palindromic numbers having at most six prime divisors, each relatively large. The work involves equidistribution estimates for the palindromes in residue classes to large moduli, offering upper bounds for moments and averages of certain products closely related to exponential sums over palindromes.
Molecular mechanisms and environmental adaptations of flagellar loss and biofilm growth of Rhodanobacter under environmental stress
Authors: Chen Mingfei , Trotter Valentine V , Walian Peter J , Chen Yan , Lopez Romario , Lui Lauren M , Nielsen Torben N , Malana Ria Gracielle , Thorgersen Michael P , Hendrickson Andrew J , Carion Héloïse , Deutschbauer Adam M , Petzold Christopher J , Smith Heidi J , Arkin Adam P , Adams Michael W W , Fields Matthew W , Chakraborty Romy
Published: August 2024

Biofilms aid bacterial adhesion to surfaces via direct and indirect mechanisms, and formation of biofilms is considered as an important strategy for adaptation and survival in suboptimal environmental conditions. However, the molecular underpinnings of biofilm formation in subsurface sediment/groundwater ecosystems where microorganisms often experience fluctuations in nutrient input, pH, and nitrate or metal concentrations are underexplored. We examined biofilm formation under different nutrient, pH, metal, and nitrate regimens of 16 Rhodanobacter strains isolated from subsurface groundwater wells spanning diverse levels of pH (3.5 to 5) and nitrates (13.7 to 146 mM). Eight Rhodanobacter strains demonstrated significant biofilm growth under low pH, suggesting adaptations for survival and growth at low pH. Biofilms were intensified under aluminum stress, particularly in strains possessing fewer genetic traits associated with biofilm formation, findings warranting further investigation. Through random barcode transposon-site sequencing (RB-TnSeq), proteomics, use of specific mutants, and transmission electron microscopy analysis, we discovered flagellar loss under aluminum stress, indicating a potential relationship between motility, metal tolerance, and biofilm growth. Comparative genomic analyses revealed the absence of flagella and chemotaxis genes and the presence of a putative type VI secretion system in the highly biofilm-forming strain FW021-MT20. In this study we identified genetic determinants associated with biofilm growth under metal stress in a predominant environmental genus, Rhodanobacter, and identified traits aiding survival and adaptation to contaminated subsurface environments.
Niche separation in bacterial communities and activities in porewater, loosely attached, and firmly attached fractions in permeable surface sediments
Authors: Moncada Chyrene , Arnosti Carol , Brüwer Jan D , de Beer Dirk , Amann Rudolf , Knittel Katrin
Published: August 2024

Heterotrophic microbes are central to organic matter degradation and transformation in marine sediments. Currently, most investigations of benthic microbiomes do not differentiate between processes in the porewater and on the grains and, hence, only show a generalized picture of the community. This limits our understanding of the structure and functions of sediment microbiomes. To address this problem, we fractionated sandy surface sediment microbial communities from a coastal site in Isfjorden, Svalbard, into cells associated with the porewater, loosely attached to grains, and firmly attached to grains; we found dissimilar bacterial communities and metabolic activities in these fractions. Most (84%–89%) of the cells were firmly attached, and this fraction comprised more anaerobes, such as sulfate reducers, than the other fractions. The porewater and loosely attached fractions (3% and 8%–13% of cells, respectively) had more aerobic heterotrophs. These two fractions generally showed a higher frequency of dividing cells, polysaccharide (laminarin) hydrolysis rates, and per-cell O2 consumption than the firmly attached cells. Thus, the different fractions occupy distinct niches within surface sediments: the firmly attached fraction is potentially made of cells colonizing areas on the grain that are protected from abrasion, but might be more diffusion-limited for organic matter and electron acceptors. In contrast, the porewater and loosely attached fractions are less resource-limited and have faster growth. Their cell numbers are kept low possibly through abrasion and exposure to grazers. Differences in community composition and activity of these cell fractions point to their distinct roles and contributions to carbon cycling within surface sediments.
Considerations of monopsony in merger analysis: The Penguin Random House case
Authors: Alderman Brianna L , Blair Roger D
Published: August 2024

In 2020, Bertelsmann SE & Co., the owner of Penguin Random House (PRH), offered to acquire Simon & Schuster for $2.175 billion. If the merger had been consummated, the newly merged firm would have had a 49 per cent share of the market for publishing rights to anticipated top-selling books. Concerned by the proposed merger, the Department of Justice alleged that a more concentrated sector for publishing would result in lower advances to authors of highly anticipated books. The antitrust concern, therefore, centred on the exercise of monopsony power rather than monopoly power. The District Court was persuaded by the evidence presented at trial and blocked the merger on that ground. Having lost at trial, PRH decided to forgo an appeal. This article provides a brief analysis and critique of the District Court’s ruling.
Approaches for predicting dairy cattle methane emissions: from traditional methods to machine learning
Authors: Ross Stephen , Wang Haiying , Zheng Huiru , Yan Tianhai , Shirali Masoud
Published: August 2024

Measuring dairy cattle methane (CH4) emissions using traditional recording technologies is complicated and expensive. Prediction models, which estimate CH4 emissions based on proxy information, provide an accessible alternative. This review covers the different modeling approaches taken in the prediction of dairy cattle CH4 emissions and highlights their individual strengths and limitations. Following the guidelines set out by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA); Scopus, EBSCO, Web of Science, PubMed and PubAg were each queried for papers with titles that contained search terms related to a population of “Bovine,” exposure of “Statistical Analysis or Machine Learning,” and outcome of “Methane Emissions”. The search was executed in December 2022 with no publication date range set. Eligible papers were those that investigated the prediction of CH4 emissions in dairy cattle via statistical or machine learning (ML) methods and were available in English. 299 papers were returned from the initial search, 55 of which, were eligible for inclusion in the discussion. Data from the 55 papers was synthesized by the CH4 emission prediction approach explored, including mechanistic modeling, empirical modeling, and machine learning. Mechanistic models were found to be highly accurate, yet they require difficult-to-obtain input data, which, if imprecise, can produce misleading results. Empirical models remain more versatile by comparison, yet suffer greatly when applied outside of their original developmental range. The prediction of CH4 emissions on commercial dairy farms can utilize any approach, however, the traits they use must be procurable in a commercial farm setting. Milk fatty acids (MFA) appear to be the most popular commercially accessible trait under investigation, however, MFA-based models have produced ambivalent results and should be consolidated before robust accuracies can be achieved. ML models provide a novel methodology for the prediction of dairy cattle CH4 emissions through a diverse range of advanced algorithms, and can facilitate the combination of heterogenous data types via hybridization or stacking techniques. In addition to this, they also offer the ability to improve dataset complexity through imputation strategies. These opportunities allow ML models to address the limitations faced by traditional prediction approaches, as well as enhance prediction on commercial farms.
Effect of dietary calcium source, exogenous phytase, and formic acid on inositol phosphate degradation, mineral and amino acid digestibility, and microbiota in growing pigs
Authors: Klein Nicolas , Sarpong Naomi , Feuerstein Dieter , Camarinha-Silva Amélia , Rodehutscord Markus
Published: August 2024

The choice of the calcium (Ca) source in pig diets and the addition of formic acid may affect the gastrointestinal inositol phosphate (InsP) degradation and thereby, phosphorus (P) digestibility in pigs. This study assessed the effects of different Ca sources (Ca carbonate, Ca formate), exogenous phytase, and chemical acidification on InsP degradation, nutrient digestion and retention, blood metabolites, and microbiota composition in growing pigs. In a randomized design, 8 ileal-cannulated barrows (24 kg initial BW) were fed 5 diets containing Ca formate or Ca carbonate as the only mineral Ca addition, with or without 1,500 FTU/kg of an exogenous hybrid 6-phytase. A fifth diet was composed of Ca carbonate with phytase but with 8 g formic acid/kg diet. No mineral P was added to the diets. Prececal InsP6 disappearance and P digestibility were lower (P ≤ 0.032) in pigs fed diets containing Ca formate. In the presence of exogenous phytase, InsP5 and InsP4 concentrations in the ileal digesta were lower (P ≤ 0.019) with Ca carbonate than Ca formate. The addition of formic acid to Ca carbonate with phytase diet resulted in greater (P = 0.027) prececal InsP6 disappearance (87% vs. 80%), lower (P = 0.001) InsP5 concentration, and greater (P ≤ 0.031) InsP2 and myo-inositol concentrations in the ileal digesta. Prececal P digestibility was greater (P = 0.004) with the addition of formic acid compared to Ca carbonate with phytase alone. Prececal amino acid (AA) digestibility of some AA was greater with Ca formate compared to Ca carbonate but only in diets with phytase (P ≤ 0.048). The addition of formic acid to the diet with Ca carbonate and phytase increased (P ≤ 0.006) the prececal AA digestibility of most indispensable AA. Exogenous phytase affected more microbial genera in the feces when Ca formate was used compared to Ca carbonate. In the ileal digesta, the Ca carbonate diet supplemented with formic acid and phytase led to a similar microbial community as the Ca formate diets. In conclusion, Ca formate reduced prececal InsP6 degradation and P digestibility, but might be of advantage in regard to prececal AA digestibility in pigs compared to Ca carbonate when exogenous phytase is added. The addition of formic acid to Ca carbonate with phytase, however, resulted in greater InsP6 disappearance, P and AA digestibility values, and changed ileal microbiota composition compared to Ca carbonate with phytase alone.
An Initial Report of Thermal Runaway Resulting in Full-Thickness Foot Burns From Lithium-Ion Battery-Powered Insole
Authors: Cole-Price Ayana K , Silverman Elizabeth , Sienko Peter , Molvik Heather , Vercruysse Gary A
Published: August 2024

Lithium-ion batteries are used in many commercial products such as electronics, cell phones, and e-cigarettes. The use of these batteries has become widespread over recent years due to their chargeability and long-lasting performance. Though a rare occurrence, lithium-ion batteries can fail due to myriad battery defects, which can cause fires and burns. One particular concern is that of thermal runaway, a critical failure marked by a sudden exothermic reaction that occurs as a result of damage to the lithium battery. Thermal runaway can produce heat in excess of 1800 °F, causing severe burns to individuals in close proximity. A 39-year-old man presented to an emergency department (ED) with full-thickness burns to his right foot after an episode of lithium-ion battery thermal runaway in his footwarmer. The patient’s boot suddenly and unexpectedly caught fire for several seconds prior to being successfully removed. The patient subsequently underwent several weeks of debridements, auto- and homografting, and wound care before eventually making a full recovery. This case highlights the rare, but serious, risk posed by lithium-ion batteries as a result of thermal runaway. This phenomenon can cause devastating full-thickness burns in a matter of seconds. As lithium-ion-powered appliances grow in popularity, stringent safety measures should be implemented to prevent catastrophic injuries. Furthermore, healthcare providers should be made aware of injuries caused by thermal runaway to appropriately treat patients.
One-carbon metabolism supports S-adenosylmethionine and m6A methylation to control the osteogenesis of bone marrow stem cells and bone formation
Authors: Zhang Wenjie , Bai Yujia , Hao Lili , Zhao Yiqing , Zhang Lujin , Ding Wenqian , Qi Yipin , Xu Qiong
Published: August 2024

The skeleton is a metabolically active organ undergoing continuous remodeling initiated by bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs). Recent research has demonstrated that BMSCs adapt the metabolic pathways to drive the osteogenic differentiation and bone formation, but the mechanism involved remains largely elusive. Here, using a comprehensive targeted metabolome and transcriptome profiling, we revealed that one-carbon metabolism was promoted following osteogenic induction of BMSCs. Methotrexate (MTX), an inhibitor of one-carbon metabolism that blocks S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) generation, led to decreased N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation level and inhibited osteogenic capacity. Increasing intracellular SAM generation through betaine addition rescued the suppressed m6A content and osteogenesis in MTX-treated cells. Using S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) to inhibit the m6A level, the osteogenic activity of BMSCs was consequently impeded. We also demonstrated that the pro-osteogenic effect of m6A methylation mediated by one-carbon metabolism could be attributed to HIF-1α and glycolysis pathway. This was supported by the findings that dimethyloxalyl glycine rescued the osteogenic potential in MTX-treated and SAH-treated cells by upregulating HIF-1α and key glycolytic enzymes expression. Importantly, betaine supplementation attenuated MTX-induced m6A methylation decrease and bone loss via promoting the abundance of SAM in rat. Collectively, these results revealed that one-carbon metabolite SAM was a potential promoter in BMSC osteogenesis via the augmentation of m6A methylation, and the cross talk between metabolic reprogramming, epigenetic modification, and transcriptional regulation of BMSCs might provide strategies for bone regeneration.