bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of sample size on two approaches to estimate Black Grouse Lyrurus tetrix population size using non‐invasive sampling methods
Authors: Haider Marlene , Steixner Ramona , Zeni Teresa , Vallant Stephanie , Lentner Reinhard , Schlick‐Steiner Birgit C. , Steiner Florian M.
Published: April 2023

Population size is an important parameter to monitor for species conservation and management. This is especially important for rare and endangered species, as declines can give information about anthropogenic impacts and the need for new conservation measures. To estimate population size, various methods of analysis can be used, for which sample size is an important factor. Sample size is particularly important to consider when applying non‐invasive sampling strategies such as sampling faeces or feathers/hairs as a source of DNA, as a means to limit disturbance and stress for the species of concern. We investigated a Black Grouse Lyrurus tetrix population in the eastern part of the Alps, in East Tyrol (Austria), and estimated population size using two approaches: capture–recapture and rarefaction. With a set of 12 polymorphic microsatellite markers, we identified genotypes from faeces and feathers (backed up with 23 tissue samples) and checked for population substructure and gene flow among sampling sites. We estimated population size using four different models from the two approaches (molecular capture–recapture: TIRM, TIRMpart; rarefaction: hyperbolic function – Kohn, exponential function – Eggert). To evaluate the impact of sample size on the estimations, we used the full dataset of 500 samples (‘complete’ dataset) and half the dataset of 250 samples (‘half’ dataset). We also estimated the population size for each sex separately using complete and half datasets to check for sex‐specific differences in population size. We found similar results in three of four models (capture–recapture: capwire TIRM, capwire TIRMpart; rarefaction: rarefaction Kohn). Using just half of the data increased the uncertainties in the estimation of population size in all models used and deviations were particularly large in females, which indicated a sex bias. Only the complete dataset of males had an observation rate of more than two observations/individual, and this observation rate meets the recommendation for using the capwire models. This indicates that, for species with different sex‐specific detectability, larger sample sizes do not generally imply higher observation rates. We conclude that calculating the observation rates and population‐size estimations for each sex separately can improve overall population‐size estimation, especially in species with biased sex ratios and those that exhibit sex‐specific behaviour.
Traces in the shadow: Occupational outcomes of previously undocumented migrants in Italy
Authors: Molinari Rocco , Impicciatore Roberto , Ortensi Livia Elisa
Published: April 2023

Using a representative sample of currently legal third‐country immigrants in Italy, obtained from the Social Condition and Integration of Foreign Citizens survey, this article examines the long‐term labour market consequences of previous undocumented spells. First, formerly undocumented immigrants are identified using retrospective information on respondents' legal status. Second, immigrants are classified according to the duration of irregular spells before the achievement of the first residence permit. Third, current labour market outcomes are investigated to account for the endogeneity underlying the previous undocumented history. Results show that even though formerly undocumented immigrants are more likely to participate in the labour market, they are more likely to be employed in underqualified occupations than continuously legal immigrants. The duration of the irregular experience affects occupational qualification negatively, among both men and women. The lack of legal entry channels and policies to plan and regulate migration to Italy may reinforce labour market segmentation, exposing migrants to long‐term occupational downgrade.
Executive summary of consensus clinical practice guidelines for the prevention of infection in patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Teh Benjamin W. , Reynolds Gemma , Slavin Monica A. , Cooley Louise , Roberts Matthew , Liu Eunice , Thursky Karin , Talaulikar Dipti , Mollee Peter , Szabo Ferenc , Ward Chris , Chan Henry , Prince H. Miles , Harrison Simon J. ,   the Medical and Scientific Advisory Group Myeloma Australia and National Centre for Infections in Cancer
Published: April 2023

Infection remains a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality in patients with myeloma. This guideline was developed by a multidisciplinary group of clinicians who specialise in the management of patients with myeloma and infection from the medical and scientific advisory group from Myeloma Australia and the National Centre for Infections in Cancer. In addition to summarising the current epidemiology and risk factors for infection in patients with myeloma, this guideline provides recommendations that address three key areas in the prevention of infection: screening for latent infection, use of antimicrobial prophylaxis and immunoglobulin replacement and vaccination against leading respiratory infections (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, influenza and Streptococcus pneumoniae) and other preventable infections. This guideline provides a practical approach to the prevention of infection in patients with myeloma and harmonises the clinical approach to screening for infection, use of prophylaxis and vaccination to prevent infectious complications.
Informing a value care model: lessons from an integrated adult neurogenomics clinic
Authors: McLean Alison , Tchan Michel , Devery Sophie , Smyth Renee , Shrestha Rupendra , Kumar Kishore R. , Tomlinson Susan , Tisch Stephen , Wu Kathy H. C.
Published: April 2023

Background

Advances in genomics provide improved opportunities for diagnosis of complex neurogenetic disorders, yet the optimal approach to translate these benefits to the outpatient clinic is unclear.

Aims

We retrospectively reviewed referral indications and outcomes of an integrated multidisciplinary team (MDT) clinic pathway for adults with suspected neurogenetic disorders. The associated cost implications were estimated.

Methods

Consecutive patients who attended the neurogenomics clinic from January 2017 to April 2020 were included. The clinic comprised neurologists, clinical geneticists and genetic counsellors, who assessed each patient concurrently.

Results

Ninety‐nine new patients were referred spanning 45 different clinical diagnoses. Following MDT clinical assessment, 23% (23/99) of referral diagnoses were revised prior to molecular testing. Eighty‐one patients (82%) underwent genetic testing, including 43 exome‐based panels, 15 whole‐genome sequencing, 14 single gene tests, 27 repeat‐primed polymerase chain reaction testing and two chromosomal microarrays. Overall, 33/99 patients (33%) received a diagnosis, either a molecular diagnosis (n = 24, of which 22 were diagnostic and two were predictive) or a clinical diagnosis (n = 9). Of the clinical diagnosis cohort, five patients received a diagnosis without molecular testing and four patients whose negative testing (one diagnostic and three predictive) allowed exclusion of genetic differentials and, hence, confirmation of clinical diagnoses. The diagnostic rate following MDT and diagnostic testing was 30% (28/94), excluding the five predictive testing cases. MDT assessment aligned with eventual molecular diagnoses in 96% of cases. The estimated average costs were AU$1386 per patient undergoing MDT assessment and AU$4159 per diagnosis achieved.

Conclusions

We present an integrated multidisciplinary neurogenomics clinic pathway providing a diagnostic yield of 33% (30% excluding predictive testing cases), with costing implications. The relatively high diagnostic yield may be attributed to multidisciplinary input integrating accurate phenotyping of complex disorders and interpretation of genomic findings.
The epidemiological pattern of seasonal influenza in four sentinel sites in Iraq
Authors: Radhi Ahmed Hasan , Ibrahim Ziyad Hazim , Alhilifi Riyadh
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Influenza is an acute viral infection with significant morbidity and mortality. It occurs annually each winter, which is called seasonal influenza, and is preventable through safe vaccine.

Aim

The aim of this work is to know the epidemiological pattern of patients with seasonal influenza in Iraqi sentinel sites.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was carried out on records of patients who attended four sentinel sites and registered to have influenza‐like illness (ILI) or severe acute respiratory infection (SARI), and laboratory investigated.

Results

The total number of cases was 1124; 36.2% of them aged 19–39 years; 53.9% were female; 74.9% lived in urban areas; 64.3% diagnosed as ILI; and 35.7% as SARI; 15.9% had diabetes, 12.7% had heart disease, 4.8% had asthma, 3% had a chronic lung disease, and 2% had hematological disease; 94.6% did not get influenza vaccine. About COVID‐19 vaccine, 69.4% were not vaccinated, 3.5% got only one dose, and 27.1% completed two doses. Only the SARI cases needed admission; among them, 95.7% were cured. 6.5% were diagnosed with influenza‐A virus, 26.1% had COVID‐19, and 67.5% were negative. Among those with influenza, 97.3% had H3N2 subtype and 2.7% had H1N1 pdm09.

Conclusions

The percentage of influenza virus in Iraq is relatively small. The age, classification of case (ILI or SARI), having diabetes, heart disease, or immunological disease, and taking COVID‐19 vaccine have a significant association with influenza.

Recommendations

It is needed for similar sentinel sites in other health directorates and for rising health education about seasonal influenza and its vaccine.
Disentangling relationships between physiology, morphology, diet, and gut microbial diversity in American kestrel nestlings
Authors: Houtz Jennifer L. , Melo Mercy , Therrien Jean‐François , Cornell Allison
Published: April 2023

Gut microbiota are increasingly recognized as important drivers of host health and fitness across vertebrate taxa. Given that gut microbial composition is directly influenced by the environment, gut microbiota may also serve as an eco‐physiological mechanism connecting host ecology, such as diet, and physiology. Although gut microbiota have been well‐studied in mammalian systems, little is known about how gut microbial diversity and composition impact morphological and physiological development in wild birds. Here, we characterized both diet and gut microbial diversity of free‐living American kestrel Falco sparverius nestlings throughout development to test whether gut microbial diversity predicts host morphological and physiological traits in either contemporary or time‐lagged manners. Gut microbial alpha diversity on day 21 of nestling development was positively correlated with diet alpha diversity representative of the majority of nestling development (days 5–20). Gut microbial alpha diversity early in development was negatively correlated with body mass in both contemporary and time‐lagged manners. Gut microbial alpha diversity early in development was positively correlated with blood glucose later in development. As nestlings experience rapid growth demands in preparation to fledge, these time‐lagged associations may indicate that gut microbial diversity at early critical developmental windows may determine the future trajectory of morphological and physiological traits underlying metabolism that ultimately impact fitness.
Linagliptin ameliorated cardiac fibrosis and restored cardiomyocyte structure in diabetic mice associated with the suppression of necroptosis
Authors: Adhikari Juthi , Hirai Taro , Kawakita Emi , Iwai Kunimitsu , Koya Daisuke , Kanasaki Keizo
Published: April 2023

Aims/Introduction

Linagliptin is a selective dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)‐4 inhibitor capable of successfully regulating blood glucose levels. The cardiovascular protective effects of several DPP‐4 inhibitors have been shown in preclinical studies; however, the detailed influence of DPP‐4 inhibitors on diabetic pathological alterations in cardiac tissue has not yet been elucidated.

Materials and Methods

We combined laboratory‐based experiments and bioinformatics techniques to identify suitable candidate targets with significant biological pathways. Mice with streptozotocin‐induced insulin deficiency diabetic model were utilized for in vivo experiments. Mice were euthanized at 24 weeks after the induction of diabetes; linagliptin intervention was carried out for 4 weeks before euthanasia. Microarray analysis of heart samples was carried out.

Results

Mice with streptozotocin‐induced diabetes, but not control mice, showed cardiac fibrosis with an endothelial–mesenchymal transition program, and myocardial fiber and sarcomere disruption; linagliptin alleviated these diabetes‐associated pathological alterations without altering blood glucose levels. Bioinformatics analysis utilizing a microarray dataset identified 10 hub genes that were confirmed to have human disease relevance by Gene Expression Omnibus analysis. Among these hub genes, we focused on the Sox9–necroptosis axis as a therapeutic target in diabetic hearts. Indeed, diabetic mice showed the induction of necroptosis‐associated genes and the phosphorylation of RIP3 and mixed lineage kinase domain‐like protein.

Conclusions

Linagliptin showed excellent heart protection in mice with streptozotocin‐induced diabetes associated with alterations in human disease‐relevant hub genes. Further investigation is required to determine why DPP‐4 inhibitors do not show similar superior organ‐protective effects in the clinical setting.
What came first, the shark or the egg? Discovery of a new species of deepwater shark by investigation of egg case morphology
Authors: White William T. , O'Neill Helen L. , Devloo‐Delva Floriaan , Nakaya Kazuhiro , Iglésias Samuel P.
Published: April 2023

Apristurus ovicorrugatus, a new species of deepwater catshark, is described from northwestern Australia. Unique egg cases belonging to an unknown species of Apristurus prompted a more detailed investigation of Apristurus specimens off northwestern Australia. One specimen previously identified as A. sinensis collected off Dampier Archipelago was found gravid with a single egg case. Removal of this egg case confirmed that this species was responsible for producing the unique egg cases previously recorded. The egg cases of this species have strong T‐shaped longitudinal ridges on the dorsal and ventral surfaces which are unique in the genus Apristurus. The ridges most closely resemble those present in Bythaelurus canescens from South America, but are larger and always T‐shaped. The holotype is closest morphologically to A. sinensis but differs in having a medium brown buccal cavity (vs. jet black), ridged egg cases (vs. smooth egg cases), fewer intestinal spiral valve turns and larger pectoral fins. The holotype is also similar, and closest on a molecular level, to A. nakayai with which it shares a unique synapomorphic character, the white shiny iris (apomorphic within the genus). A late‐term embryo removed from an egg case superficially resembled the holotype except in having two parallel rows of enlarged dermal denticles on the dorsolateral predorsal surface. Recent nomenclatural changes to the genera Apristurus and Pentanchus are discussed and challenged. This study highlights the important contribution that egg case morphology has on oviparous elasmobranch taxonomy.
Curricular Quality Improvement in Midwifery: Simulating Unexpected Perinatal Loss
Authors: Altman Susan D. , Tilley Charles P. , Feldman Rebecca , Brennan Mary , Wholihan Dorothy
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Caring for families experiencing perinatal loss is a fundamental component of midwifery practice, but little attention is paid to perinatal palliative care in midwifery curricula. Lack of educational preparation and self‐care resources negatively impacts midwifery students and health care teams caring for families experiencing stillbirth.

Process

A private, urban university conducted a curricular quality improvement project to integrate perinatal palliative care into the midwifery curriculum using a high‐fidelity, branching simulation pedagogy. Simulation objectives were developed from curricular gap analyses and the Core Competencies for Basic Midwifery Practice. Development of the Unexpected Perinatal Loss Simulation was guided by the International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning Outcomes and Objectives and Design Standards. The Unexpected Perinatal Loss Simulation was revised based on qualitative data from student focus groups and expert content validation.

Outcomes

Qualitative data yielded 4 key domains: presimulation, simulation skills, prior experience/personal reflections, and recommendations. Simulation procedures and scenario content were revised, after which 8 expert clinicians in the fields of midwifery, palliative care, and psychiatry validated the scenario content using the Lynn method. Two items did not meet the content validity index (CVI) threshold of 0.78, necessitating review by stakeholders; however, the overall scenario CVI threshold was met (0.82).

Discussion

Through this project, faculty integrated perinatal palliative care into the midwifery program using a novel approach of high‐fidelity, branching simulation, structured debriefing, and an introductory self‐care skills workshop. Potential clinical impact includes skillful perinatal palliative care with effective communication skills to mitigate how families experience and remember a traumatic loss and facilitate the grieving process. Students voiced insights into how they would process loss and seek support to mitigate their own grief as future midwives.
Can Security Design Foster Household Risk‐Taking?
Authors: CALVET LAURENT E. , CELERIER CLAIRE , SODINI PAOLO , VALLEE BORIS
Published: April 2023

This paper shows that securities with nonlinear payoff designs can foster household risk‐taking. We demonstrate this effect by exploiting the introduction of capital guarantee products in Sweden between 2002 and 2007. Their fast and broad adoption is associated with an increase in expected financial portfolio returns. The effect is especially strong for households with low‐risk appetite ex ante. These empirical facts are consistent with a life‐cycle model in which households have pessimistic beliefs or preferences combining loss aversion and narrow framing. Our results illustrate how security design can mitigate behavioral biases to increase mean household portfolio returns.
Development of University of Tokyo's eating disorders inventory in female athletes
Authors: Chiba Yoko , Nose‐Ogura Sayaka , Sekiguchi Kuniko , Eda Kaori , Nakamura Hiroe , Koshimizu Takako , Yamamoto Hiroaki , Yamaguchi Tatsuya , Harada Miyuki , Wada‐Hiraike Osamu , Osuga Yutaka
Published: April 2023

Aims

This study aimed to develop a scale to screen for eating disorders in female athletes.

Methods

Preliminary survey: A total of 275 female athletes (mean age: 19.4 ± 1.0 years) and 7 female athletes diagnosed with eating disorders (mean age: 20.1 ± 2.5 years) were administered screening items prepared based on an existing scale, followed by exploratory factor analysis.

Main survey: Six items, relating to three factors, were extracted, and 201 female athletes (mean age: 22.3 ± 4.8 years) and 6 female athletes diagnosed with current or a history of eating disorders (mean age: 18.8 ± 2.9 years) were queried. The diagnostic validity of the scale was then evaluated.

Results

Preliminary survey: Questions (α = 0.71) were extracted from six items, relating to three factors, and collectively termed the University of Tokyo's eating disorders inventory in female athletes (TEDIFA). To determine the scale cut‐off score, ROC analysis was performed with the total score, and the cut‐off and gray zone scores were set at 13 and 11, respectively.

Main survey: At the cut‐off score of 13, AUC, sensitivity, and specificity were 0.83 (p < 0.05), 75%, and 90%, respectively.

Conclusions

The scale that was developed, TEDIFA, consisted of six items. The cut‐off scores were set at 11 for the gray zone (sensitivity: 75%; specificity: 56%; accurate diagnosis rate: 60%), and 13 for positivity (sensitivity: 75%; specificity: 90%; accurate diagnosis rate: 87%), demonstrating the reliability and validity of the scale.
Dynamic contrast‐enhanced computed tomography in dogs with nasal tumors
Authors: Mortier Jeremy R. , Maddox Thomas W. , Blackwood Laura , La Fontaine Matthew D. , Busoni Valeria
Published: April 2023

Background

Treatment of nasal tumors in dogs is associated with high morbidity and reliable prognostic factors are lacking. Dynamic contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (DCECT) can be used to assess tumor perfusion.

Objectives

To assess perfusion parameters of nasal tumors (correlating with tumor type) before and during radiotherapy (RT) and find potential correlation with survival.

Animals

Twenty‐four client‐owned dogs with nasal tumors, including 16 epithelial tumors and 8 sarcomas.

Methods

Prospective cross‐sectional study. All dogs had baseline DCECT to assess fractional vascular volume (BV), blood flow (BF), and transit time (TT). Thirteen dogs had repeat DCECT after 12 Gy of megavoltage RT. Survival times were calculated.

Results

Median BV was 17.83 mL/100 g (range, 3.63‐66.02), median BF was 122.63 mL/100 g/minute (range, 23.65‐279.99), and median TT was 8.91 seconds (range, 4.57‐14.23). Sarcomas had a significantly lower BF than adenocarcinomas (P = .002), carcinomas (P = .01), and other carcinomas (P = .001), and significantly lower BV than adenocarcinomas (P = .03) and other carcinomas (P = .004). Significant associations were found between epithelial tumors and sarcoma for change in tumor volume (P = .01), width (P = .004), and length (P = .02) in that epithelial tumors decreased in volume whereas sarcomas increased in volume. Perfusion parameters were not correlated with survival.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Nasal sarcomas have lower BV and BF than nasal carcinomas, and sarcomas have a lower size reduction than carcinomas early on during RT. Baseline results and changes in perfusion parameters may not be correlated with survival.
Coastal mesozooplankton respond to decadal environmental changes via community restructuring
Authors: Mazzocchi Maria Grazia , Di Capua Iole , Kokoszka Florian , Margiotta Francesca , d'Alcalà Maurizio Ribera , Sarno Diana , Zingone Adriana , Licandro Priscilla
Published: April 2023

Long‐term ecological research has revealed the impact of climate on marine ecosystems at multiple time scales. Changes in the pelagic system have been detected at the LTER‐MC site in the Gulf of Naples (Tyrrhenian Sea, western Mediterranean) since 1984. Here we analyzed the time series to determine whether zooplankton had significantly changed over the three decades 1984–2015. In addition to the seasonal cycle as the main mode of temporal variability, we observed long‐term trends in the functional groups and species. Copepods, the most abundant group, declined over the years owing to a decrease in the abundance of Acartia clausi, Centropages typicus, the Paracalanus parvus complex, and Oithona spp. Increasing trends were observed for strict carnivores (chaetognaths) and typical filter feeders (cladocerans, appendicularians, and thaliaceans); the latter may be linked to a higher density of <5 μm phytoplankton. Two main temporal shifts were detected: (i) in 1985–87, similarly to the regime shifts registered in other basins of the Northern Hemisphere, and (ii) after 2011, likely related to local atmospheric forcing. The disappearance or decrease in some neritic copepods and the increased abundance of typical offshore species seem to reflect the enhanced influence of the open Tyrrhenian waters at the sampling site. Despite these changes, no significant trends were detected in the total zooplankton abundance and overall composition, which indicates restructuring within the whole community. These results underline the need to examine the entire zooplankton diversity spectrum and improve our knowledge of their ecological traits to detect and interpret long‐term variability.
Newman and the Religion of the Future
Authors: Fisher Anthony
Published: April 2023

Although underappreciated in his own day, Catholic convert John Henry Newman was remarkably prophetic about the challenges that lay ahead for the Catholic faith. In his 1873 sermon titled, ‘The Infidelity of the Future’, Newman warned of a time when the Church would face not only the cold indifference of agnosticism but also the targeted hostility of those opposed to both God and religion. Yet Newman was not without hope or wisdom for the future Church. This essay examines Newman's insistence upon the need to cultivate an ‘ecclesiastical spirit’ and an ‘intelligent faith’. It specifically explores how Catholic institutions of higher education can respond to Newman's call and assist in bringing about a renewal in the evangelical mission of the Church, providing a much-needed alternative to the wisdom of the world.
Role of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) in the enteric nervous system in health and disease
Authors: Balasubramaniam Arun , Srinivasan Shanthi
Published: April 2023

Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) is a crucial protein that controls the immune system's reaction to bacterial and viral infections. As a pattern‐recognition receptor, STING is found in immune cells as well as in neurons and glia in the enteric nervous system (ENS). Recent studies have linked STING to the pathogenesis of several neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which are characterized by chronic inflammation and dysregulation of the enteric nervous system (ENS) in the digestive tract. STING plays a crucial role in the pathway that induces the production of interferon in response to viral infection in the central nervous system (CNS). A new study by Dharshika et al. in the current issue of Neurogastroenterology and Motility has demonstrated distinct roles for STING in enteric neurons and glia, namely activation of STING leads to IFN‐β production in enteric neurons but not in glia and reducing STING activation in enteric glia does not modulate the severity of Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) colitis or subsequent loss of enteric neurons. Rather, the role of STING in enteric glia is related to enhancing autophagy. STING can influence gastrointestinal motility and barrier function and therefore be involved in the pathophysiology of IBS and IBD. This mini review highlights the current knowledge of STING in the pathophysiology of CNS and gastrointestinal diseases as well as these newly uncovered roles STING in enteric neurons and glia.
Hereditary dentin defects with systemic diseases
Authors: Su Tongyu , Zhu Yulong , Wang Xiangpu , Zhu Qinglin , Duan Xiaohong
Published: April 2023

Objective

This review aimed to summarize recent progress on syndromic dentin defects, promoting a better understanding of systemic diseases with dentin malformations, the molecules involved, and related mechanisms.

Subjects and Methods

References on genetic diseases with dentin malformations were obtained from various sources, including PubMed, OMIM, NCBI, and other websites. The clinical phenotypes and genetic backgrounds of these diseases were then summarized, analyzed, and compared.

Results

Over 10 systemic diseases, including osteogenesis imperfecta, hypophosphatemic rickets, vitamin D‐dependent rickets, familial tumoral calcinosis, Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome, Schimke immuno‐osseous dysplasia, hypophosphatasia, Elsahy‐Waters syndrome, Singleton‐Merten syndrome, odontochondrodysplasia, and microcephalic osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II were examined. Most of these are bone disorders, and their pathogenic genes may regulate both dentin and bone development, involving extracellular matrix, cell differentiation, and metabolism of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D. The phenotypes of these syndromic dentin defects various with the involved genes, part of them are similar to dentinogenesis imperfecta or dentin dysplasia, while others only present one or two types of dentin abnormalities such as discoloration, irregular enlarged or obliterated pulp and canal, or root malformation.

Conclusion

Some specific dentin defects associated with systemic diseases may serve as important phenotypes for dentists to diagnose. Furthermore, mechanistic studies on syndromic dentin defects may provide valuable insights into isolated dentin defects and general dentin development or mineralization.
Impacts of climate‐driven changes in habitat phenology on dynamics of niche overlaps and spatial associations in a boreal waterbird community
Authors: Pöysä Hannu
Published: April 2023

A fundamental, yet little‐explored, question is if climate change has affected niche relationships and spatial associations of native non‐invasive species in established local communities, potentially affecting interspecific interactions and community organization. Here, long‐term (1991‒2020) changes in habitat niche overlaps (HNOs; measured in terms of three habitat categories describing the amount and development of shore vegetation and shore depth) and spatial associations (SAs; measured as co‐occurrence on lakes) were studied in relation to climate‐driven changes in habitat phenology in a community of eight migratory waterbird species breeding on 37 lakes in southeastern Finland. Overall timing of ice‐out date (IOD) and within‐season variation in the timing of ice‐out (standard deviation of IOD, SDIOD) in lakes determine habitat (lake) availability for waterbirds during the settling phase. Previous work has documented that IOD has advanced and SDIOD increased during 1991‒2020, with species responding differently to these changes in their habitat use. HNO and SA varied considerably in the 28 species pairs of eight species during the study period. The effect of IOD and SDIOD on that variation was generally small, effect sizes differing from zero only in eight out of 112 cases. However, the direction and magnitude of the effects of IOD and SDIOD on HNO and SA varied considerably among the species pairs. Although not statistically significant, overall differences in the direction and magnitude of the effect sizes suggested that the impacts of IOD and SDIOD on HNO and SA were stronger in species pairs in which the species were more similar in terms of settling phenology, and stronger for early settling species than for late settling species. Observed changes in niche relationships probably reflect changes in interspecific interactions and affect the possibilities for heterospecific information use in habitat selection.
Land scarcity and land access in a hazard‐prone island: Sagar, Indian Sundarbans
Authors: Mallik Chinmoyee , Bandyopadhyay Sunando , Bandopadhyay Sumana
Published: April 2023

The analytical inseparability of natural environment and society is reiterated by the findings of this study which contributes to a genre of studies that centre‐stages the socio‐ecological system. This study seeks to understand the interplay of state‐related and other modes of securing property rights in the context of pervasive coastal hazards through a case study from the Indian Sundarbans region (Sagar Island in West Bengal). This paper also contributes to research pertaining to slow‐onset disasters and attempts to examine emerging dimensions of land scarcity as well as diverse modes of access to land in the context of progressive ecological vulnerability. The analysis highlights the varying shades of declining land access and investigates how existing land policies and disaster management mechanisms remain far from extending security to communities experiencing environmental crisis. The paper thereby examines how community and state agencies adopting means to allocate property may in fact refute legality and perpetuate informality.
Resiliency through partnerships: Prioritizing STEM workforce pathways amid macro challenges
Authors: Mathieson Danny , Cotrupi Catherine , Schilling Malle , Grohs Jake
Published: April 2023

Multi‐institutional educational partnerships are a promising approach to developing the skilled technical workforce. Inexorably, the ability to maintain such partnership networks that support skilled technical workforce education was disrupted by COVID‐19. The purpose of this study is to explore Southwest Virginia's science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)‐focused multi‐institutional partnership networks, to inventory the disruptive impacts of COVID‐19, and to identify how partnership stakeholders navigated these challenges to prepare students for the skilled technical workforce. This work presents a single‐case study design, highlighting the evolving landscape of STEM workforce education partnership networks in Southwest Virginia throughout the pandemic. The team conducted interviews with 19 regional stakeholders focused on the participants' role throughout the pandemic, barriers to STEM workforce education presented by public health and economic factors, and innovative strategies to sustain and expand partnership networks through COVID‐19. Two key themes emerged from this study: successful partners maintained network connections through adaptive interactions and actors within the network served as brokers to leverage their connections and expand partnerships in the face of adversity. By taking a contextual view of the role of partnership networks in creating equitable STEM workforce pathways during COVID‐19, we develop rich insights into partnership formation, collaboration, resource allocation, and programming amidst challenges to their success.
TARGET OF EAT3 (TOE3) specifically regulates fruit spine initiation in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)
Authors: Guo Yalu , Zhao Hongjiao , Wang Yikui , Zhang Tian , Wang Zheng , Chen Xi , Zhang Xingguang , Li Zheng , Shen Junjun
Published: April 2023

The presence or absence of spines is an important economic trait of cucumber fruit. Spines are believed to be a type of specialized trichome on the fruit surface, and all the identified cucumber trichome‐less mutants lack fruit spines. However, genes that specifically regulate fruit spine initiation remain to be identified. Here, we found that knocking out cucumber TARGET OF EAT3 homolog (CsTOE3), belonging to the APETALA2/ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTOR (AP2/ERF) family, affected flower development and, more interestingly, inhibited cucumber fruit spine initiation. On analyzing expression patterns by quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction and in situ hybridization assay, CsTOE3 was found to be highly expressed in male and female flowers, and its mRNA accumulated in the tips of sepal and petal primordia and in the cells of fruit spines and peels. Biochemical analyses indicated that CsTOE3 directly interacts with GLABRA1 (CsGL1) and TRANSPARENT TESTA GLABRA1 (CsTTG1), which are positive regulators of trichome formation. In addition, RNA‐seq showed that the transcription levels of eight ERFs were significantly upregulated in CsTOE3 knockout lines. Phytohormone content analysis also revealed a significant increase in the amount of ethylene released by CsTOE3 knockout line, and treatment with the ethylene synthesis inhibitor aminoethoxyvinyl‐glycine partly restored the spineless phenotype. Our results suggest that CsTOE3 specifically regulates fruit spine initiation but does not affect the formation of trichomes on other organs in cucumber. Our findings may have a far‐reaching significance for cucumber germplasm improvement and quality breeding using fruit spines as the target trait.
A retrospective study of the range of cutaneous clinical and histological features of erythema multiforme in five ferrets (Mustela putorius furo)
Authors: Hess Erica , Trainor Karen , Schick Anthea , Mount Rebecca , Garner Michael , Loeffler Diana
Published: April 2023

Background

Erythema multiforme (EM) is an uncommon cutaneous reaction pattern characterised by panepidermal keratinocyte apoptosis with lymphocytic satellitosis, and is reported in domestic animal species, livestock and rarely ferrets.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The aim of this study was to analyse the spectrum of cutaneous clinical and histological features in ferrets with EM and to evaluate history and treatment outcomes.

Animals

Five client‐owned ferrets with biopsy‐confirmed EM.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective review of electronic medical records and histopathological reports from 2002 to 2021. Tissue blocks, haematoxylin and eosin re‐cuts, and unstained slides were collected to review EM lesions and evaluate for infectious agents with special stains. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to assess cases for viral pathogens.

Results

Panepidermal cytotoxic dermatitis consistent with EM was identified in all cases and involved haired skin in four of five and mucous membranes in one of five ferrets. Skin lesions included variably pruritic alopecia, erythema, scaling, crusts and erosions/ulcerations. Histological features included primarily parakeratotic hyperkeratosis, panepidermal keratinocyte apoptosis, lymphocytic satellitosis and interface dermatitis. Superficial colonisation by bacteria, yeasts or by both was a common finding. Four of five ferrets had concurrent adrenal disease, one of which had resolution of skin lesions with deslorelin acetate treatment.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Awareness of the distinct clinical and histological features is key to the diagnosis of EM in ferrets. Clinical resolution was observed with gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonists in two cases, suggesting that adrenal disease should be ruled out as a potential trigger of EM in ferrets.
Unilateral invasive intraocular melanoma with choroidal and optic nerve involvement resulting in bilateral vision loss in a Labrador Retriever
Authors: Opgenorth Taylor A. , Gibson Ryan M. B. , Mamaliger Nataly , Marquardt Taya M. , Beasley Michaela J. , Baughman Brittany , Galle Laurence E. , Telle Mary Rebecca
Published: April 2023

A 10‐year‐old male castrated Labrador Retriever cross was referred for evaluation of acute vision loss. Ophthalmic examination revealed mild left sided exophthalmos, bilateral resting mydriasis, an absent direct and reduced consensual PLR in the left eye and reduced direct and absent consensual PLR in the right eye. Examination of the cornea and anterior segment with slit lamp biomicroscopy was unremarkable. Indirect fundoscopy revealed a left optic nerve head obscured by a darkly pigmented lesion. Fundic examination in the right eye was unremarkable. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a smoothly marginated, lobulated cone to irregularly shaped, strongly T1 hyperintense, T2 and T2 fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery hypointense, strongly contrast enhancing mass closely associated with the entire left optic nerve, extending across the optic chiasm and into the right optic nerve ventrally. Full clinical staging revealed no evidence of metastasis. Exenteration of the left eye was performed. Histopathology revealed an unencapsulated, poorly demarcated, multilobulated and infiltrative pigmented mass that was effacing the posterior choroid and optic nerve. The mass was composed of a moderately pleomorphic population of heavily pigmented polygonal cells arranged in sheets and clusters, displaying moderate anisocytosis and anisokaryosis. The population of cells contained moderate amounts of abundant brown‐black granular pigment consistent with melanin within the cytoplasm. Mitotic figures averaged approximately three per ten 400× fields (2.37 mm2). This is the first report of a melanocytic tumor invading along the optic nerve and tract to result in contralateral vision loss.
Skin wound healing as a mirror to cardiac wound healing
Authors: Lindsey Merry L. , Becirovic‐Agic Mediha
Published: April 2023

Wound healing is a general response of the body to injury. All organs share in common three response elements to wound healing: inflammation to prevent infection and stimulate the removal of dead cells, active anti‐inflammatory signalling to turn off the inflammatory response, and a repair phase characterized by extracellular matrix scar formation. The extent of scar formed depends on the ability of endogenous cells that populate each organ to regenerate. The skin has keratinocytes that have regenerative capacity, and in general, wounds are fully re‐epithelialized. Heart, in contrast, has cardiac myocytes that have little to no regenerative capacity, and necrotic myocytes are entirely replaced by scars. Despite differences in tissue regeneration, the skin and heart share many wound‐healing properties that can be exploited to predict the cardiac response to pathology. We summarize in this review article our current understanding of how the response of the skin to a wounding event can inform us about the ability of the myocardium to respond to a myocardial infarction.
The Periplasmic Tail-Specific Protease, Tsp, Is Essential for Secondary Differentiation in
Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Swoboda Abigail R. , Wood Nicholas A. , Saery Elizabeth A. , Fisher Derek J. , Ouellette Scot P.
Published: April 2023

The human pathogen
Chlamydia trachomatis
is the leading cause of preventable infectious blindness and bacterial sexually transmitted infections worldwide. This pathogen has a unique developmental cycle that alternates between distinct forms.
Developing Science Literacy in Students and Society: Theory, Research, and Practice
Authors: Kelp Nicole C. , McCartney Melissa , Sarvary Mark A. , Shaffer Justin F. , Wolyniak Michael J.
Published: April 2023

The subject of scientific literacy has never been more critical to the scientific community as well as society in general. As opportunities to spread misinformation increase with the rise of new technologies, it is critical for society to have at its disposal the means for ensuring that its citizens possess the basic scientific literacy necessary to make critical decisions on topics like climate change, biotechnology, and other science-based issues.
HSV-1 Infection Induces a Downstream Shift of Promoter-Proximal Pausing for Host Genes
Authors: Weiß Elena , Hennig Thomas , Graßl Pilar , Djakovic Lara , Whisnant Adam W. , Jürges Christopher S. , Koller Franziska , Kluge Michael , Erhard Florian , Dölken Lars , Friedel Caroline C.
Published: April 2023

This study provides a genome-wide analysis of changes in promoter-proximal polymerase II (Pol II) pausing on host genes induced by HSV-1 infection. It shows that standard measures of pausing, i.e., pausing indices, do not properly capture the complex and unsuspected alterations in Pol II pausing occurring in HSV-1 infection.
Bacteria and Archaea Regulate Particulate Organic Matter Export in Suspended and Sinking Marine Particle Fractions
Authors: Dithugoe Choaro D. , Bezuidt Oliver K. I. , Cavan Emma L. , Froneman William P. , Thomalla Sandy J. , Makhalanyane Thulani P.
Published: April 2023

The biological carbon pump is crucial for the export of particulate organic matter in the ocean. Recent studies on marine microbes have shown the profound influence of bacteria and archaea as regulators of particulate organic matter export.
Effects of Stool Sample Preservation Methods on Gut Microbiota Biodiversity: New Original Data and Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Xin-meng , Shi Xiao , Yao Yao , Shen Yi-cun , Wu Xiang-ling , Cai Ting , Liang Lun-xi , Wang Fen
Published: April 2023

The study of gut bacteria has become increasingly popular, and fecal sample preservation methods and times need to be standardized. Here, we detail a 12-month study of fecal sample preservation, and our study provides an empirical reference about experimental details for long-term high-quality storage of fecal samples in the field of gut microbiology research.
Genetic and Transcriptional Regulatory Mechanisms of Lipase Activity in the Plant Pathogenic Fungus Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Kim Sieun , Lee Juno , Park Jiyeun , Choi Soyoung , Bui Duc-Cuong , Kim Jung-Eun , Shin Jiyoung , Kim Hun , Choi Gyung Ja , Lee Yin-Won , Chang Pahn-Shick , Son Hokyoung
Published: April 2023

Fusarium graminearum
is an economically important plant-pathogenic fungus that causes
Fusarium
head blight (FHB) on wheat and barley. Here, we constructed a gene knockout mutant library of 86 putative lipase-encoding genes and established a comprehensive phenotypic database of the mutants.
Diagnostic Performance and Tolerability of Saliva and Nasopharyngeal Swab Specimens in the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR
Authors: Ahti Jaakko , Österback Riikka , Keskitalo Anniina , Mokkala Kati , Vidbäck Siina , Veikkolainen Ville , Vuorinen Tytti , Peltola Ville , Hakanen Antti J. , Waris Matti , Laine Miia
Published: April 2023

The extensive testing of SARS-CoV-2 is vital in controlling the spread of COVID-19. The reference standard for specimen collection is a nasopharyngeal swab (NPS).
Suicide in young people: screening, risk assessment, and intervention
Authors: Hughes Jennifer L , Horowitz Lisa M , Ackerman John P , Adrian Molly C , Campo John V , Bridge Jeffrey A
Published: April 2023

Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among young people worldwide and the third leading cause of death among those in the US. This review outlines the epidemiology of suicide and suicidal behavior in young people. It discusses intersectionality as an emerging framework to guide research on prevention of suicide in young people and highlights several clinical and community settings that are prime targets for implementation of effective treatment programs and interventions aimed at rapidly reducing the suicide rate in young people. It provides an overview of current approaches to screening and assessment of suicide risk in young people and the commonly used screening tools and assessment measures. It discusses universal, selective, and indicated evidence based suicide focused interventions and highlights components of psychosocial interventions with the strongest evidence for reducing risk. Finally, the review discusses suicide prevention strategies in community settings and considers future research directions and questions challenging the field.
Higher burden of cardiometabolic and socioeconomic risk factors in women with type 2 diabetes: an analysis of the Glycemic Reduction Approaches in Diabetes (GRADE) baseline cohort
Authors: Gulanski Barbara I , Butera Nicole M , Krause-Steinrauf Heidi , Lichtman Judith H , Harindhanavudhi Tasma , Green Jennifer B , Suratt Colleen E , AbouAssi Hiba , Desouza Cyrus , Ahmann Andrew J , Wexler Deborah J , Aroda Vanita R
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a powerful risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), conferring a greater relative risk in women than men. We sought to examine sex differences in cardiometabolic risk factors and management in the contemporary cohort represented by the Glycemia Reduction Approaches in Diabetes: A Comparative Effectiveness Study (GRADE).

Research design and methods

GRADE enrolled 5047 participants (1837 women, 3210 men) with T2DM on metformin monotherapy at baseline. The current report is a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data collected July 2013 to August 2017.

Results

Compared with men, women had a higher mean body mass index (BMI), greater prevalence of severe obesity (BMI≥40 kg/m2), higher mean LDL cholesterol, greater prevalence of low HDL cholesterol, and were less likely to receive statin treatment and achieve target LDL, with a generally greater prevalence of these risk factors in younger women. Women with hypertension were equally likely to achieve blood pressure targets as men; however, women were less likely to receive ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers. Women were more likely to be divorced, separated or widowed, and had fewer years of education and lower incomes.

Conclusions

This contemporary cohort demonstrates that women with T2DM continue to have a greater burden of cardiometabolic and socioeconomic risk factors than men, particularly younger women. Attention to these persisting disparities is needed to reduce the burden of CVD in women.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01794143)