bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cognitive ability and stock market participation: evidence from China
Authors: Xu Shulin , Alnafrah Ibrahim , Dagestani Abd Alwahed
Published: March 2024

Purpose

It is imperative for policymakers, financial institutions, and individual investors to comprehend the factors that impact stock market participation, given the growing significance of the stock market in terms of personal and national wealth. This study endeavours to explore the relationship between cognitive ability and participation in the stock market. We examine the relationship between cognitive abilities and stock market participation, and further explore the mechanism of their influence.

Design/methodology/approach

The data from the China Family Panel Studies is utilized, and Tobit and Probit regressions are employed. Additionally, an instrumental variable approach (IV-estimate) is implemented to address the endogeneity issue linked to cognitive ability, and the study’s findings are resilient.

Findings

The results reveal a significant positive relationship between cognitive ability and stock market participation. Additionally, the findings suggest that households with higher cognitive ability tend to aggregate more information, expand social networks, and take more risks. A likely explanation is that individuals with higher cognitive ability are more likely to process more external information and evaluate the subjective uncertainty of stock markets based on a well-defined probability distribution. Our findings indicate that the impact of cognitive ability on stock market participation varies among families with differing education levels, genders, marital statuses, and geographical locations.

Originality/value

Therefore, the roles of cognitive abilities in accelerating stock market participation should be fully considered. More information channels and sources that contain financial markets’ information (e.g. mobile applications and financial education) should be provided. Thus, the significance of cognitive ability in increasing stock market participation should be fully considered. Providing more information channels and sources, such as mobile applications and financial education, that contain financial markets’ information would be helpful. Our study contributes to promoting financial literacy and inclusion by highlighting the significant positive impact of cognitive ability, where institutions can tailor their outreach efforts and information channels to better serve individuals with different cognitive ability.
Serum bile acid measurements in women of European and South Asian ethnicity with or without gestational diabetes mellitus: A cohort study
Authors: Schoonejans Josca M. , Fan Hei Man , Mitchell Alice L. , Lövgren‐Sandblom Anita , Sukumar Nithya , Periyathambi Nishanthi , Weldeselassie Yonas , Seed Paul T. , Molinaro Antonio , Marschall Hanns‐Ulrich , Saravanan Ponnusamy , Williamson Catherine
Published: March 2024

Objective

Investigation of serum bile acid profiles in pregnancies complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in a multi‐ethnic cohort of women who are lean or obese.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

UK multicentre study.

Population

Fasting serum from participants of European or South Asian self‐reported ethnicity from the PRiDE study, between 23 and 31 weeks of gestation.

Methods

Bile acids were measured using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Log‐transformed data were analysed using linear regression in STATA/IC 15.0.

Main outcome measures

Total bile acids (TBAs), C4, fasting glucose and insulin.

Results

The TBAs were 1.327‐fold (1.105–1.594) increased with GDM in European women (P = 0.003). Women with GDM had 1.162‐fold (1.002–1.347) increased levels of the BA synthesis marker C4 (P = 0.047). In South Asian women, obesity (but not GDM) increased TBAs 1.522‐fold (1.193–1.942, P = 0.001). Obesity was associated with 1.420‐fold (1.185–1.702) increased primary/secondary BA ratio (P < 0.001) related to 1.355‐fold (1.140–1.611) increased primary BA concentrations (P = 0.001). TBAs were positively correlated with fasting glucose (P = 0.039) in all women, and with insulin (P = 0.001) and the Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA‐IR) (P = 0.001) in women with GDM.

Conclusions

Serum BA homeostasis in late gestation depends on body mass index and GDM in ethnicity‐specific ways. This suggests ethnicity‐specific aetiologies may contribute to metabolic risk in European and South Asian women, with the relationship between BAs and insulin resistance of greater importance in European women. Further studies into ethnicity‐specific precision medicine for GDM are required.
Landfill tax and recycling
Authors: Jofre‐Monseny Jordi , Sorribas‐Navarro Pilar
Published: March 2024

This paper provides new empirical evidence on the role of landfill taxes in reducing landfill waste and promoting recycling. We focus on the impacts of the 2017 landfill tax law reform in Catalonia, a Spanish region, which increased the tax rate from 18 to 47 euros per tonne over the period 2017–20. Using municipality‐level data for Catalonia from the 2013–20 period, we contrast municipalities that differed in the use of door‐to‐door waste collection by the beginning of our study period. As door‐to‐door waste collection is advocated as especially efficient at reducing landfill waste, we hypothesise that municipalities that had not yet adopted this system had greater leeway in responding to the tax changes. Based on a two‐way fixed effects design, our findings reveal large differential responses to the tax hike. Compared with municipalities that had implemented door‐to‐door waste collection by 2013, we estimate that those that had not done this responded to the tax hike by reducing landfill waste by an additional 12 per cent, reducing total waste by 4 per cent, and increasing the share of recycled waste and waste that is sorted as organic by 6 and 2.5 percentage points, respectively. We provide suggestive evidence that the adoption of door‐to‐door waste collection is the main mechanism driving these responses.
The Real Effects of Supply Chain Transparency Regulation: Evidence from Section 1502 of the Dodd–Frank Act
Authors: BAIK BOK , EVEN‐TOV OMRI , HAN RUSSELL , PARK DAVID
Published: March 2024

Section 1502 of the Dodd–Frank Act requires SEC‐registered issuers to conduct supply chain due diligence and submit conflict minerals disclosures (CMDs) that indicate whether their products contain tantalum, tin, tungsten, or gold (3TG) sourced from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) or its neighboring countries (“covered countries”). Consistent with the reputational cost hypothesis, we find that heightened public attention to CMDs increases responsible sourcing. After Section 1502 takes effect, we find higher demand for 3TG products processed in certified smelters, decreased conflicts in covered countries’ mining regions relative to other regions, and reduced sensitivity of conflict risk to conflict minerals’ price spikes. Finally, we find that conflicts decrease in Eastern DRC territories with prevalent 3T (tantalum, tin, and tungsten) mines but increase in territories with prevalent gold mines. Overall, our findings highlight the real effects of enhanced supply chain transparency regulation.
Safety of pre‐hospital peripheral vasopressors: The SPOTLESS study (Safety of PrehOspiTaL pEripheral vaSopreSsors)
Authors: Ley Greaves Robbie , Bolot Renee , Holgate Andrew , Gibbs Clinton
Published: March 2024

Objective

To assess the safety and effectiveness of peripheral vasoactive drugs initiated during pre‐hospital care and retrieval missions, in Queensland, Australia.

Methods

Three years of retrospective data was gathered from two sources. Medical notes were reviewed using a search for any patient having ‘inotrope’ recorded on an electronic medical record. Each case was reviewed to include only peripheral infusions of adrenaline or noradrenaline. Clinical Governance records were searched for adverse events related to vasoactive drugs, alerted for review to ensure complete capture.

Results

A total of 418 patients received peripheral infusions of adrenaline and noradrenaline over the 3‐year period. No major complications were recorded either immediately or at Clinical Governance review. Minor complications were recorded in 4.7% of the cases, of which 3.5% occurred with peripheral vasoactives during the presence of the retrieval team. The frequency of use of peripheral vasoactives increased over the study period.

Conclusions

In this retrospective data set there were no major complications of peripheral vasoactive drugs. Minor complications were similar to in‐hospital use and related to vascular access and drug delivery.
Off‐label application of the breast expander magnet: An alternative approach to enable localisation and removal of ferromagnetic subcutaneous foreign bodies
Authors: Susini Pietro , Pozzi Mirco , Di Seclì Davide , Nisi Giuseppe , Cuomo Roberto , Grimaldi Luca
Published: March 2024

Objective

Included foreign bodies of a metallic nature are commonly found. They are often small, asymptomatic, with few or non‐visible scars or even clinically invisible. Sometimes the patient does not remember their existence. The condition is benign and does not require special attention, unless a magnetic resonance imaging scan is necessary. Indeed, magnetic field interactions could pose significant risks, and the procedure is typically contraindicated unless the ferromagnetic foreign body (FFB) has been previously removed. For such purposes, the magnet that is commonly used in breast and plastic surgery units for breast expanders port injection site identification could represent a time‐saving and cost‐effective solution.

Methodology

This paper presents an alternative technique based on off‐label application of the breast expander magnet to localize FFBs.

Results

Between April 2023 and June 2023, the breast expander magnet allowed successful pre‐operative localisation and intra‐operative guidance for removal of FFBs in four clinical cases. The post‐operative ultrasound confirmed the absence of metal residues after the procedure in all cases.

Conclusion

Off‐label application of the breast expander magnet allows for FFB pre‐operative localisation and safe intra‐operative surgical guidance, thus representing a promising off‐label application of the device. After surgical removal of FFBs, the magnetic resonance imaging is allowed without any risk.
Sensitivity to the initial rewarding effects of alcohol: Influence of age, sex, and β‐endorphin
Authors: Waldron Madison A. , Jones Holly E. , Rhinehart Erin M. , Grisel Judith E.
Published: March 2024

Background

Alcohol use disorders (AUDs) are widespread, devastating and complex. About 20% of people who consume alcohol develop problem use, accounting for over 5% of worldwide deaths. While numerous animal models have facilitated understanding of the consequences of excessive drinking, translational models allow for experimental manipulation of factors thought to contribute to AUD liability.

Methods

We employ a single‐exposure conditioned place preference assay (SE‐CPP) to investigate the influence of age, sex and the opioid peptide β‐endorphin (bE) on the initial rewarding effects of ethanol, a strong predictor of AUDs. Adolescent (PND28‐35) and adult (PND70‐90) male and female, control C57BL/6J and bE‐deficient mice were tested following a single injection of 1.5 g/kg of ethanol. Following the SE‐CPP test, animals were deeply anesthetized, sacrificed, and perfused, and the brains were subsequently sectioned at 40 microns and processed for immunohistochemical localization of c‐fos. One‐sample, two‐tailed t‐tests were used to assess drug preference or aversion and the locomotor effects of alcohol.

Results

In general, adults were more sensitive to the effects of alcohol than adolescents, and outcomes depended on sex and bE. For example, among females, adolescents were stimulated by the drug, but insensitive to locomotor effects as adults, while among males, adolescents were insensitive and adults sedated. Wild‐type adolescents of both sexes failed to evince initial subjective reward from the drug, but bE‐deficient adolescents, and all adult subjects, preferred a context once associated with ethanol over one that had been paired with saline. c‐fos immunoreactivity in multiple brain regions was attenuated in bE‐deficient animals, though influences of both sex and bE grew stronger with age.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the utility of the SE‐CPP paradigm for elucidating factors that contribute to the liability for AUDs, and supports the growing body of research that shows that sensitivity to the rewarding effects of alcohol changes during the course of development. Our results also suggest that developmental contributions are sex‐dependent, and may also depend on the influence of endogenous opioid signaling.
Topography and morphometry of the infraorbital and mandibular foramen of the common sloth (Bradypus variegatus) for use in the application of perineural anaesthesia
Authors: Moia Ana Luisa Carvalho , Branco Érika , Mesquita Ellen Yasmin Eguchi , de Lima Ana Rita
Published: March 2024

A local anaesthetic block performed in cranial and mandibular foramina contributes towards analgesia and the reduction of systemic anaesthesia in procedures in the oral cavity. However, anatomical differences between in wild animals may require adaptations to the anaesthetic and surgical manoeuvres of the head used in domestic animals. With that in mind, we aimed to describe the topography and morphometry of the infraorbital and mandibular foramina in Bradypus variegatus, to support perineural anaesthetic approaches in the cranio‐mandibular region of this species. We demonstrated that in B. variegatus there is no significant variability in the morphometric data, allowing access to the studied foramina to occur in a similar way in adult individuals. Finally, we understand that the techniques for the infraorbital and mandibular foramen needed to be adapted due to the anatomical singularities of the species, which culminated in new reference points for more assertive needle positioning.
Quality control of allergen products with mass spectrometry part I: Positioning within the EU regulatory framework
Authors: Spiric Jelena , Schulenborg Thomas , Holzhauser Thomas , Schuler Frank , Bonertz Andreas , Lauer Iris , Bartel Detlef , Vieths Stefan , Mahler Vera , Reuter Andreas
Published: March 2024

Mass spectrometry (MS) has advanced greatly and many of its applications are ready for utilization within regulatory procedures and could significantly contribute to overcome challenges in standardization of allergen products. It seems sensible to discuss MS within the regulatory framework, before addressing technical questions. While the application to purified proteins is well established from product development to manufacturer's release analytics, its application to complex products such as allergen products is still under development. It needs to be determined where it can complement or replace established methods or where MS offers limited improvement. Despite its technical appeal and versatility, currently MS is mentioned in regulatory guidelines only as one possible measurement method. For example, no specific MS method is given in the European Pharmacopoeia. We discuss applications of MS within the EU regulatory framework. This includes their advantages and disadvantages and their positioning between research, characterization, manufacturer's release analytics and official batch testing. We discuss the qualitative detection of single and multiple allergens as proof of identity, qualitative to semi‐quantitative protein profiles for batch to batch consistency testing, and quantification of allergens to state mass units of allergens. MS may also facilitate standardization of allergen products, reference products and reference standards.
Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on outcomes of cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis: a national cohort study
Authors:   STRATA Collaborative,   CHOLECOVID Collaborative
Published: March 2024

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic was associated with significant disruptions to healthcare provision globally and in Aotearoa New Zealand. It remains unclear how this disruption affected the surgical management of acute cholecystitis and whether there are ongoing impacts.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of two multicentre cohort studies (CHOLECOVID and CHOLENZ) on patients who underwent cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis. Participants were categorized into pre‐pandemic (September–November 2019), pandemic (March–May 2020), and late‐pandemic (August–October 2021) phases. Baseline demographics, clinical management, and 30‐day postoperative complications were assessed between phases. Multivariable logistic regression was used to explore the impact of timing of operation on rates of hospital readmission and postoperative complications.

Results

517 participants were included, of whom 85 (16%) were in the pre‐pandemic‐phase, 52 (10%) were in the pandemic phase, and 380 (73%) were in the late‐pandemic phase. Pandemic and late‐pandemic phase participants were more comorbid and had higher rates of obesity and deranged blood results than pre‐pandemic. After multivariable adjustment, there were no differences in rates of hospital readmission or postoperative complications at 30‐day follow‐up across phases.

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 pandemic had minimal impacts on the provision of cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis in Aotearoa New Zealand. However, patients managed during the COVID‐19 pandemic were more comorbid and had higher rates of obesity and elevated inflammatory markers.
Optimizing theatre utilization for abscess drainage: going beyond priority categories
Authors: Yang Phillip F. , Builth‐Snoad Lily , Ng Kheng‐Seong , Gu Eva , Errington Belinda , McBride Kate E. , Lee Peter J.
Published: March 2024

Background

Day‐only emergency surgery for abscess drainage is poorly implemented in Australia. This study assessed the feasibility, outcomes, cost, and impact of an acute day‐only surgery (ADOS) program.

Method

A retrospective pre‐post implementation study of patients requiring abscess drainage in theatre was performed. Following implementation of an ADOS program for abscess management, eligible patients were discharged from the emergency department and prioritized first on the following day's emergency list. Outcomes from the first 12 months of the ADOS era were compared with those of the preceding 6 months (pre‐ADOS). Primary outcome was length of hospital stay (LOS). Secondary outcomes included 30‐day complications, admission costs, and impact on overall emergency theatre workflow (measured by emergency appendicectomy metrics).

Results

Overall, 266 patients during the ADOS era (including 95 eligible for the ADOS pathway) were compared with 115 patients during the pre‐ADOS era. Baseline characteristics were comparable. Median LOS was shorter during the ADOS era (21.9 h (IQR 11.8–43.3) vs. 30.1 h (IQR 24.7–48.8), P < 0.001). Median LOS was 10.2 h (IQR 8.9–13.1) for patients on the ADOS pathway. There were no significant differences in 30‐day complications (9.3% vs. 9.5%), emergency department re‐presentations (7.4% vs. 5.1%), or abscess recurrence (5.6% vs. 5.7%). Average cost per patient was lower during the ADOS era ($4155 vs. $4916, p = 0.005). ADOS did not appear to materially impact other emergency procedures.

Conclusion

ADOS for abscess drainage is feasible, safe, and produces cost savings, while being implemented without significant additional resources.
Nurse‐led renal cell carcinoma clinic: a single center review
Authors: Thia I. , Tan A. , Botha E. , Picardo A. , Brown M. , Thyer I. , Abdul‐Hamid A. , Tan A. , Teichmann D. , Hayne D. , McCombie S.P.
Published: March 2024

Background

In 2015 our centre introduced a nurse‐led renal cell cancer follow‐up protocol and clinic for patients who have undergone partial or radical nephrectomy for organ‐confined kidney tumours. The main aims of this clinic were to improve healthcare efficiency and standardize follow‐up processes.

Objectives

The primary objective was to assess the effectiveness of a nurse‐led renal cell cancer follow up clinic in regard to surveillance protocol compliance and the timely identification and appropriate management of recurrences. A secondary objective was to evaluate this locally developed follow up protocol against the current European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines surveillance protocol.

Patient and Methods

All patients who underwent a partial or radical nephrectomy between 2015 and 2021 at a single Western Australia institution for a primary renal malignancy were included. Data was collected from local clinical information systems and protocol adherence, recurrence characteristics and management were assessed. The current EAU guidelines were applied to the cohort to assess differences in risk‐stratification and theoretical outcomes between the protocols.

Results

After a mean follow up period of 31.2 months (range 0–77 months), 75.5% (185/245) of patients had all follow up imaging and reviews within 1 month of the timeframe scheduled on the protocol. 17.1% (42/245) had a delay in their follow up of more than a month at some stage, 5.7% (14/245) did not attend for follow up but had documented attempts to facilitate their compliance, and 0.4% (1/245) were lost to follow up with no evidence of attempted contact. 15.5% (38/245) of patients had recurrence of malignancy detected during follow up and these were all discussed in a multi‐disciplinary team (MDT) meeting. The recurrence rate was 2.5% (3/119) for low risk, 17.7% (14/79) for intermediate risk, and 44.7% (21/47) for high risk patients when they were re‐stratified according to EAU risk categories. No recurrences were detected through ultrasound (USS) or chest x‐ray (CXR) in this cohort and our protocol tended to place patients in higher risk‐stratification groups as compared to current EAU guidelines.

Conclusion

Nurse‐led renal cell cancer follow up is a safe, reliable and effective clinical framework that has significant benefits in regard to resource utilization. USS and CXR are ineffective in detecting recurrence and Computerized tomography (CT) should be considered the imaging modality of choice for this purpose. The EAU surveillance protocol appears superior to our protocol, and we have therefore transitioned to the EAU guideline protocol going forward.
Impact of inflammatory bowel disease on the risk of acute coronary syndrome: A Swedish Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Eriksson Carl , Sun Jiangwei , Bryder Matti , Bröms Gabriella , Everhov Åsa H. , Forss Anders , Jernberg Tomas , Ludvigsson Jonas F. , Olén Ola
Published: March 2024

Background

There are conflicting data on the risk of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Only a few previous reports include patients diagnosed during the last decade.

Aim

To assess and compare the risk of ACS between patients with IBD and the general population.

Methods

In this cohort study, we used nationwide registers to identify patients diagnosed with IBD in Sweden 2003–2021. Every patient was matched by birth year, sex, calendar year and area of residence with up to 10 general population comparators. The primary outcome was incident ACS. We used semi‐parametric Cox proportional hazard models to estimate hazard ratios (HRs).

Results

We identified 76,517 patients with IBD (Crohn's disease [CD], N = 22,732; ulcerative colitis [UC], N = 42,194 and IBD—unclassified, N = 11,591) and 757,141 comparators. During a median follow‐up of 8 years, 2546 patients with IBD (37.5/10,000 person‐years) were diagnosed with ACS compared with 19,598 (28.0/10,000 person‐years) among comparators (HR 1.30; 95% confidence interval 1.24–1.35) after adjustments for confounding factors, and approximately one extra case of ACS in 100 IBD patients followed for 10 years. The highest HRs for ACS were in patients with elderly onset IBD (≥60 years) and among patients with CD or UC with extra‐intestinal manifestations. No increased HRs were observed in patients diagnosed with IBD before the age of 40.

Conclusion

In this contemporary cohort of patients with IBD, exposed to modern IBD care, there was an increased risk for ACS compared with individuals from the general population.
Sharing fieldnotes: Collaborative learning at the summer music festival
Authors: Buck‐Matthews Eveleigh
Published: March 2024

Sometimes there are moments within fieldwork that are unplanned and that point to the potential of new research practices. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork at summer music festivals in the UK, this paper considers two moments when fieldnotes were shared with participants, both during and after the festival. I explore the potential of these moments for expanding our understandings of the field but also highlight some of the issues with this way of incorporating people into our studies. Overall, I suggest that sharing fieldnotes can encourage a greater level of understanding of those we research, and promotes a higher level of involvement between research participants and research process.
Negotiating the insider–outsider dilemma in urban research: Experiences of a graduate student returning home for fieldwork
Authors: Bandauko Elmond
Published: March 2024

African doctoral students studying abroad and returning to their home countries for fieldwork face multiple and complex challenges. This paper reflexively addresses the question of positionality from the experiences of conducting research on urban governance and the spatial politics of street traders in Harare, Zimbabwe. The paper discusses dilemmas associated with navigating insider and outsider identities, showcasing how these categories continually shift while conducting research on street traders within a distinct socio‐cultural and political context. Moreover, the author's background as a former street trader, now pursuing a PhD at the University of Western Ontario in Canada, adds a layer of complexity to the situation, offering valuable insights into how these ‘multiple’ positionalities can either facilitate or hinder data collection. The paper underscores the nuanced experiences of the researcher in the field, shedding light on the potential challenges, pitfalls and opportunities inherent in grappling with one's positionality. By foregrounding these complexities, the paper contributes to our understanding of the positionalities of researchers in the social sciences and adds to the growing body of literature on methodologies for conducting urban studies, particularly with vulnerable populations.
Segmented growth of reactivated major bounding faults and their control on basin structures: Insights from the Nanpu Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, eastern China
Authors: Lou Rui , Sun Yong‐He , Tian Wen‐Guang , Gao Tian
Published: March 2024

A thorough insight into the initiation, segmentation, propagation and interaction of multitrend basin‐bounding faults is crucial to restoring the growth history of the faults and clarifying the fault growth pattern and its influence on the structures developed along the margin due to the growth of the basin‐bounding faults, but systematic studies on the individual influence of the evolution of each fault segment on the present structure are lacking. Based on 3D seismic data, the timing and growth of multitrend basin‐bounding faults were analysed using T‐z plots and throw backstripping, allowing us to determine the individual effects that each fault segment evolution exerteds on the present‐day configuration of the northern margin of the Nanpu Sag. The basin‐bounding fault is composed of the Xinanzhuang and Baigezhuang faults, and the Xinanzhuang fault comprises three linked segments with varying orientations (i.e., NE–SW, E–W, and NNE–SSW). In comparison, the Baigezhuang fault comprises only two linked NW–SE‐oriented fault segments. The evolution process can be divided into three stages. (1) During the early synrift I stage, namely, the isolated fault stage, five isolated multitrend basin‐bounding segments were active. (2) During the late synrift I stage, namely, the hard‐linkage stage, the five segments propagated laterally and linked with each other, behaving as a single fault. Meanwhile, the NE‐trending No. 5 Fault bifurcated upward from the basin‐bounding fault to accommodate local stress, and the NW‐trending Gaobei Fault deviated from the basin‐bounding fault controlled by local stresses induced by differential activities of the multitrend fault segments under the same far‐field stress. (3) During the synrift II to postrift linkage development stage, the extension orientation changed from NW–SE‐ to N–S, and additional displacement accumulated along the basin‐bounding fault without further lateral propagation. Newly formed E–W‐trending faults developed orthogonal to the extension orientation and linked with preexisting NE‐ or NW‐trending faults, forming a complex fault zone. In addition, influenced by the geometry of the basin‐bounding fault, the Laoyemiao Anticline formed by gravitational collapse under the dual action of a rollover anticline and transverse anticline. Furthermore, the evolution of the basin‐bounding faults played an important role in controlling the source‐to‐sink system, and the transition zone was the main provenance channel formed by the segmented growth of the faults. This study provides new insight into multitrend large fault evolution, and their impact on basin development provides a comprehensive explanation of the later structures developed in polyphase rifts.
A multicentre case series of analytically confirmed gamma‐hydroxybutyrate intoxications in Western Australian emergency departments: Pre‐hospital circumstances, co‐detections and clinical outcomes
Authors: Smith Jennifer L. , Greene Shaun , McCutcheon David , Weber Courtney , Kotkis Ellie , Soderstrom Jessamine , Douglas Bianca , Lenton Simon , Grigg Jodie , Dessauer Paul , Ezard Nadine , Fatovich Daniel M. ,   the EDNA Investigators
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Gamma‐hydroxybutyrate (GHB) use is associated with high risk of accidental overdose. This study examined the pre‐hospital circumstances, demographic characteristics and clinical outcomes of analytically confirmed GHB emergency department (ED) presentations in Western Australia (WA).

Methods

This case series was conducted across three WA EDs involved in the Emerging Drugs Network of Australia, from April 2020 to July 2022. Patient demographics, pre‐hospital drug exposure circumstances and ED presentation and outcome characteristics were collected from ambulance and hospital medical records of GHB‐confirmed cases.

Results

GHB was detected in 45 ED presentations. The median age was 34 years and 53.3% (n = 24) were female. Most patients arrived at the ED by ambulance (n = 37, 85.7%) and required immediate emergency care (Australasian Triage Score 1 or 2 = 97.8%). One‐third of patients were admitted to intensive care (n = 14, 31.1%). Methylamphetamine was co‐detected in 37 (82.2%) GHB‐confirmed cases. Reduced conscious state was indicated by first recorded Glasgow Coma Scale of ≤8 (n = 29, 64.4%) and observations of patients becoming, or being found, ‘unresponsive’ and ‘unconscious’ in various pre‐hospital settings (n = 28, 62.2%). ‘Agitated’ and/or ‘erratic’ mental state and behavioural observations were recorded in 20 (44.4%) cases.

Discussion and Conclusions

Analytically verified data from ED presentations with acute toxicity provides an objective information source on drug use trends and emerging public health threats. In our study, patients presenting to WA EDs with GHB intoxication were acutely unwell, often requiring intensive care treatment. The unexpectedly high proportion of female GHB intoxications and methylamphetamine co‐ingestion warrants further exploration.
Genotype diversity enhances invasion resistance of native plants via soil biotic feedbacks
Authors: Cheng Cai , Liu Zekang , Zhang Qun , Tian Xing , Ju Ruiting , Li Bo , van Kleunen Mark , Chase Jonathan M. , Wu Jihua
Published: March 2024

Although native species diversity is frequently reported to enhance invasion resistance, within‐species diversity of native plants can also moderate invasions. While the positive diversity–invasion resistance relationship is often attributed to competition, indirect effects mediated through plant–soil feedbacks can also influence the relationship. We manipulated the genotypic diversity of an endemic species, Scirpus mariqueter, and evaluated the effects of abiotic versus biotic feedbacks on the performance of a global invader, Spartina alterniflora. We found that invader performance on live soils decreased non‐additively with genotypic diversity of the native plant that trained the soils, but this reversed when soils were sterilized to eliminate feedbacks through soil biota. The influence of soil biota on the feedback was primarily associated with increased levels of microbial biomass and fungal diversity in soils trained by multiple‐genotype populations. Our findings highlight the importance of plant–soil feedbacks mediating the positive relationship between genotypic diversity and invasion resistance.
‘Drivin' with your eyes closed’: Results from an international, blinded simulation experiment to evaluate spatial stock assessments
Authors: Goethel Daniel R. , Berger Aaron M. , Hoyle Simon D. , Lynch Patrick D. , Barceló Caren , Deroba Jonathan , Ducharme‐Barth Nicholas D. , Dunn Alistair , Fu Dan , Izquierdo Francisco , Marsh Craig , Xu Haikun , Correa Giancarlo M. , Langseth Brian J. , Maunder Mark N. , McKenzie Jeremy , Methot Richard D. , Vincent Matthew T. , A'mar Teresa , Cardinale Massimiliano , Cousido‐Rocha Marta , Davies Nick , Hampton John , Minte‐Vera Carolina , Urtizberea Agurtzane
Published: March 2024

Spatial models enable understanding potential redistribution of marine resources associated with ecosystem drivers and climate change. Stock assessment platforms can incorporate spatial processes, but have not been widely implemented or simulation tested. To address this research gap, an international simulation experiment was organized. The study design was blinded to replicate uncertainty similar to a real‐world stock assessment process, and a data‐conditioned, high‐resolution operating model (OM) was used to emulate the spatial dynamics and data for Indian Ocean yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares). Six analyst groups developed both single‐region and spatial stock assessment models using an assessment platform of their choice, and then applied each model to the simulated data. Results indicated that across all spatial structures and platforms, assessments were able to adequately recreate the population trends from the OM. Additionally, spatial models were able to estimate regional population trends that generally reflected the true dynamics from the OM, particularly for the regions with higher biomass and fishing pressure. However, a consistent population biomass scaling pattern emerged, where spatial models estimated higher population scale than single‐region models within a given assessment platform. Balancing parsimony and complexity trade‐offs were difficult, but adequate complexity in spatial parametrizations (e.g., allowing time‐ and age‐variation in movement and appropriate tag mixing periods) was critical to model performance. We recommend expanded use of high‐resolution OMs and blinded studies, given their ability to portray realistic performance of assessment models. Moreover, increased support for international simulation experiments is warranted to facilitate dissemination of methodology across organizations.
The role of β‐adrenergic receptors in the regulation of cardiac tolerance to ischemia/reperfusion. Why do β‐adrenergic receptor agonists and antagonists protect the heart?
Authors: Maslov Leonid N. , Naryzhnaya Natalia V. , Voronkov Nikita S. , Kurbatov Boris K. , Derkachev Ivan A. , Ryabov Vyacheslav V. , Vyshlov Evgeny V. , Kolpakov Viktor V. , Tomilova Eugenia A. , Sapozhenkova Ekaterina V. , Singh Nirmal , Fu Feng , Pei Jianming
Published: March 2024

Background

Catecholamines and β‐adrenergic receptors (β‐ARs) play an important role in the regulation of cardiac tolerance to the impact of ischemia and reperfusion. This systematic review analyzed the molecular mechanisms of the cardioprotective activity of β‐AR ligands.

Methods

We performed an electronic search of topical articles using PubMed databases from 1966 to 2023. We cited original in vitro and in vivo studies and review articles that documented the cardioprotective properties of β‐AR agonists and antagonists.

Results

The infarct‐reducing effect of β‐AR antagonists did not depend on a decrease in the heart rate. The target for β‐blockers is not only cardiomyocytes but also neutrophils. β1‐blockers (metoprolol, propranolol, timolol) and the selective β2‐AR agonist arformoterol have an infarct‐reducing effect in coronary artery occlusion (CAO) in animals. Antagonists of β1‐ and β2‐АR (metoprolol, propranolol, nadolol, carvedilol, bisoprolol, esmolol) are able to prevent reperfusion cardiac injury. All β‐AR ligands that reduced infarct size are the selective or nonselective β1‐blockers. It was hypothesized that β1‐AR blocking promotes an increase in cardiac tolerance to I/R. The activation of β1‐AR, β2‐AR, and β3‐AR can increase cardiac tolerance to I/R. The cardioprotective effect of β‐AR agonists is mediated via the activation of kinases and reactive oxygen species production.

Conclusions

It is unclear why β‐blockers with the similar receptor selectivity have the infarct‐sparing effect while other β‐blockers with the same selectivity do not affect infarct size. What is the molecular mechanism of the infarct‐reducing effect of β‐blockers in reperfusion? Why did in early studies β‐blockers decrease the mortality rate in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and without reperfusion and in more recent studies β‐blockers had no effect on the mortality rate in patients with AMI and reperfusion? The creation of more effective β‐AR ligands depends on the answers to these questions.
No time to die: Epigenetic regulation of natural killer cell survival
Authors: Hermans Leen , O'Sullivan Timothy E.
Published: March 2024

NK cells are short‐lived innate lymphocytes that can mediate antigen‐independent responses to infection and cancer. However, studies from the past two decades have shown that NK cells can acquire transcriptional and epigenetic modifications during inflammation that result in increased survival and lifespan. These findings blur the lines between the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system, and suggest that the homeostatic mechanisms that govern the persistence of innate immune cells are malleable. Indeed, recent studies have shown that NK cells undergo continuous and strictly regulated adaptations controlling their survival during development, tissue residency, and following inflammation. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the critical factors regulating NK cell survival throughout their lifespan, with a specific emphasis on the epigenetic modifications that regulate the survival of NK cells in various contexts. A precise understanding of the molecular mechanisms that govern NK cell survival will be important to enhance therapies for cancer and infectious diseases.
A mixed‐method evaluation of peer‐led education about attitudes towards consumers' recovery among Mental Health Nurses working in acute inpatient psychiatric units
Authors: Sreeram Anju , Cross Wendy M. , Townsin Louise
Published: March 2024

Despite integrating the recovery model of care in mental health, mental health professionals still have pessimistic attitudes towards the recovery of people with mental illness. Positive attitudes towards recovery are essential components to integrate recovery‐oriented practices in all areas of mental health. Evidence shows that education and training are effective while emphasising the importance of consumer‐based interventions to enhance recovery attitudes. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of peer‐led education about recovery attitudes towards people with mental illness among Mental Health Nurses working in acute inpatient settings. The methodology used was a sequential explanatory mixed method with pre‐ and post‐test design involving three phases. Phase 1: survey (n = 103), phase 2: post‐test survey immediate (n = 17) and follow‐up (n = 11) and phase 3: in‐depth interviews (n = 12). The results show that Mental Health Nurses have positive recovery attitudes with some room for improvement. Most participants agreed with all items of the Recovery Attitudes Questionnaire. However, the participants had various views on the relationship between faith and recovery. The peer‐led education significantly improved RAQ items 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 statistically. Furthermore, peer‐led education effectively enhanced recovery attitudes immediately after the intervention and helped to maintain sustainable attitudes 3 months later. A qualitative exploration of recovery attitudes revealed three main themes: participants' reflections, recovery hurdles and interpersonal relationships.
Probable sleep and awake bruxism in adolescents: A path analysis
Authors: Aguiar Sara Oliveira , Ortiz Fernanda Ruffo , Hoffmam Gabriela de Faria e Barboza , Souza Gabriela Luiza Nunes , Prado Ivana Meyer , Abreu Lucas Guimarães , Auad Sheyla Márcia , Serra‐Negra Junia Maria
Published: March 2024

Background

Bruxism has a multifactorial etiology, including the influence of sleep characteristics and chronotypes.

Aim

To identify the pathways that influence the occurrence of probable sleep bruxism (PSB) and probable awake bruxism (PAB) in adolescents.

Design

A total of 403 adolescents, aged 12–19 years, participated in the study. Parents/caregivers filled out a questionnaire about sociodemographic issues and the adolescent's health conditions, and the adolescents about sleep characteristics, occurrence of bruxism (based on previous study and the International Consensus of Bruxism), and chronotype (Circadian Energy Scale). Clinical examinations were performed. Statistical analysis included descriptive analysis and path analysis.

Results

PSB and PAB are related to each other, with moderate and positive correlation (β = .390). Poor sleep quality and higher household income had a direct effect on both PSB (β = −.138; β = .123, respectively) and PAB (β = −.155; β = .116, respectively). Chronotype had a direct effect on PSB, in such a way that adolescents with a morningness chronotype tend to have PSB (β = −.102). Adolescents that drool on the pillow (β = .184) and/or have agitated sleep (β = .104) tend to have PSB.

Conclusion

Poor sleep quality, household income, morningness chronotype profile, drooling on the pillow, and agitated sleep influence the paths taken by PSB. PAB was influenced by the quality of sleep and family income.
Annual Research Review: Neuroimmune network model of depression: a developmental perspective
Authors: Nusslock Robin , Alloy Lauren B. , Brody Gene H. , Miller Gregory E.
Published: March 2024

Depression is a serious public health problem, and adolescence is an ‘age of risk’ for the onset of Major Depressive Disorder. Recently, we and others have proposed neuroimmune network models that highlight bidirectional communication between the brain and the immune system in both mental and physical health, including depression. These models draw on research indicating that the cellular actors (particularly monocytes) and signaling molecules (particularly cytokines) that orchestrate inflammation in the periphery can directly modulate the structure and function of the brain. In the brain, inflammatory activity heightens sensitivity to threats in the cortico‐amygdala circuit, lowers sensitivity to rewards in the cortico‐striatal circuit, and alters executive control and emotion regulation in the prefrontal cortex. When dysregulated, and particularly under conditions of chronic stress, inflammation can generate feelings of dysphoria, distress, and anhedonia. This is proposed to initiate unhealthy, self‐medicating behaviors (e.g. substance use, poor diet) to manage the dysphoria, which further heighten inflammation. Over time, dysregulation in these brain circuits and the inflammatory response may compound each other to form a positive feedback loop, whereby dysregulation in one organ system exacerbates the other. We and others suggest that this neuroimmune dysregulation is a dynamic joint vulnerability for depression, particularly during adolescence. We have three goals for the present paper. First, we extend neuroimmune network models of mental and physical health to generate a developmental framework of risk for the onset of depression during adolescence. Second, we examine how a neuroimmune network perspective can help explain the high rates of comorbidity between depression and other psychiatric disorders across development, and multimorbidity between depression and stress‐related medical illnesses. Finally, we consider how identifying neuroimmune pathways to depression can facilitate a ‘next generation’ of behavioral and biological interventions that target neuroimmune signaling to treat, and ideally prevent, depression in youth and adolescents.
Embracing prospects for reducing the numbers of animals used in aquaculture research
Authors: Lazado Carlo C. , Ytteborg Elisabeth , Noble Chris
Published: March 2024

The principles of three Rs—REPLACEMENT, REDUCTION, and REFINEMENT—govern the protection and use of animals, including fish, for research purposes in the European Union and Norway. In this paper, we discuss some straightforward steps to simplify the delivery of these principles at the idea stage and adapt some of these examples for conducting fish trials related to health and welfare. Although some of the approaches are well established in other animal science arenas, we believe there can be a timely recap of their key facets. We discuss a number of simple strategies to emphasize how a reduction in fish numbers can be achieved from initial project conception to implementation, highlighting not only their advantages but also their limitations. We also highlight the role that funding agencies can play in the implementation of the 3R principles in aquaculture research. These simple points can be used in frameworks to initiate a broader and dynamic intersectoral dialogue among stakeholders of aquaculture research on how to promote ethics and embrace opportunities for this within the tenets of the 3Rs.