bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new tool to improve the estimates of interaction rewiring considering the whole community composition
Authors: Gómez‐Martínez Carmelo , Lázaro Amparo
Published: June 2024

Understanding temporal dynamics in ecological networks is crucial to predict their capability to cope with global changes. Despite this, proper quantification of network dynamics still remains a challenge. Temporal dynamics are typically studied using data of interaction networks over time, through the evaluation of interaction turnover and its two components: changes related to species turnover (species gains and losses) or rewiring (switching partners among the set of species shared over time). However, with this approach based exclusively on network data, dynamics are computed similarly for species that are truly missing from the community at a given temporal period, and for species occurring in the community but that do not interact with any other. This might lead to an underestimation of the real extent of rewiring, while overestimating the species turnover component of interaction turnover.

We used data on 20 plant–pollinator communities to calculate interaction turnover components accounting also for the species that occurred in the communities at different temporal periods but did not appear in some of the temporal interaction networks (non‐interacting species) and then compared these estimates with conventional ones. Besides, we used empirical data and simulations to evaluate the extent to which dynamics estimates were affected by sampling effort when including and excluding non‐interacting species.

As expected, disregarding the non‐interacting species that occurred in the communities at different temporal periods led to the underestimation of rewiring and the overestimation of species turnover as components of interaction turnover. Effect size was moderate when independent pollinator data were included, and large when including plants or both trophic levels. Simulations indicated that, in general, considering the non‐interacting species reduced biases at the time of identifying changes due to the different interaction turnover components. Accounting for non‐interacting species was particularly important to reduce bias when sampling effort was low and when dynamics were calculated seasonally. Despite sampling effort effects, phenology was the main determinant of species' rewiring frequencies.

Our approach contributes to reducing biases and improving the estimates of interaction flexibility in networks, which are necessary to comprehend the response of communities in the face of global change.
Step selection functions with non‐linear and random effects
Authors: Klappstein Natasha J. , Michelot Théo , Fieberg John , Pedersen Eric J. , Mills Flemming Joanna
Published: June 2024

Step selection functions (SSFs) are used to jointly describe animal movement patterns and habitat preferences. Recent work has extended this framework to model inter‐individual differences, account for unexplained structure in animals' space use and capture temporally varying patterns of movement and habitat selection.

In this paper, we formulate SSFs with penalised smooths (similar to generalised additive models) to unify new and existing extensions, and conveniently implement the models in the popular, open‐source mgcv R package.

We explore non‐linear patterns of movement and habitat selection, and use the equivalence between penalised smoothing splines and random effects to implement individual‐level and spatial random effects. This framework can also be used to fit varying‐coefficient models to account for temporally or spatially heterogeneous patterns of selection (e.g. resulting from behavioural variation), or any other non‐linear interactions between drivers of the animal's movement decisions.

We provide the necessary technical details to understand several key special cases of smooths and their implementation in mgcv, showcase the ecological relevance using two illustrative examples and provide R code to facilitate the adoption of these methods. This paper offers a broad overview of how smooth effects can be applied to increase the flexibility and biological realism of SSFs.
An interpretable machine learning‐based cerebrospinal fluid proteomics clock for predicting age reveals novel insights into brain aging
Authors: Melendez Justin , Sung Yun Ju , Orr Miranda , Yoo Andrew , Schindler Suzanne , Cruchaga Carlos , Bateman Randall
Published: June 2024

Machine learning can be used to create “biologic clocks” that predict age. However, organs, tissues, and biofluids may age at different rates from the organism as a whole. We sought to understand how cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) changes with age to inform the development of brain aging‐related disease mechanisms and identify potential anti‐aging therapeutic targets. Several epigenetic clocks exist based on plasma and neuronal tissues; however, plasma may not reflect brain aging specifically and tissue‐based clocks require samples that are difficult to obtain from living participants. To address these problems, we developed a machine learning clock that uses CSF proteomics to predict the chronological age of individuals with a 0.79 Pearson correlation and mean estimated error (MAE) of 4.30 years in our validation cohort. Additionally, we analyzed proteins highly weighted by the algorithm to gain insights into changes in CSF and uncover novel insights into brain aging. We also demonstrate a novel method to create a minimal protein clock that uses just 109 protein features from the original clock to achieve a similar accuracy (0.75 correlation, MAE 5.41). Finally, we demonstrate that our clock identifies novel proteins that are highly predictive of age in interactions with other proteins, but do not directly correlate with chronological age themselves. In conclusion, we propose that our CSF protein aging clock can identify novel proteins that influence the rate of aging of the central nervous system (CNS), in a manner that would not be identifiable by examining their individual relationships with age.
Social episodic memory in severe alcohol use disorder: Positive encoding bias and negative bias in accessibility of interpersonal information
Authors: Pabst Arthur , d'Argembeau Arnaud , de Longueville Xavier , de Timary Philippe , Maurage Pierre
Published: June 2024

Background

Alterations in higher‐order social cognition are well documented in individuals with severe alcohol use disorder (SAUD). However, the basic mechanisms underpinning them are not well understood. This knowledge gap hampers the development of targeted therapeutic interventions. Here, we investigated whether individuals with SAUD show abnormalities in social episodic memory processes, which may represent relevant candidate mechanisms for alterations in social cognition.

Methods

Recently detoxified patients with SAUD and matched healthy controls (HCs) completed two experimental tasks. We first used a Social Recognition Task in 40 SAUD patients and 40 HCs to measure the participants' ability to implicitly memorize the facial identity and emotion of novel interpersonal cues (i.e., dynamic facial expressions of anger and happiness). We then used a Social Memory Accessibility Task in 29 SAUD patients and 30 HCs) to measure participants' access to and fluency for already existing social memories by asking them to retrieve as many specific positive and negative interpersonal events as possible within equal time limits.

Results

In the Social Recognition Task, we found that, compared to HCs, patients with SAUD had a globally lower recognition performance for the facial identities of novel social stimuli, but a preserved bias toward positive information. Conversely, in the social memory accessibility task, patients showed greater access to and fluency for negative interpersonal memories than controls (no group differences were observed for positive ones), resulting in a negative accessibility bias.

Conclusions

This exploration of episodic social memory in individuals with SAUD showed (1) a preserved bias for the encoding of positive versus negative novel social information, and (2) greater access to negative than positive interpersonal memories. These results enhance our understanding of socio‐affective processing in individuals with SAUD and identify social memory alterations that may contribute to social cognition and interpersonal difficulties.
Trends in phase 1 oncology clinical trials across Australia; Analysis of ClinicalTrials.gov 2012–2022
Authors: Hitchen Nadia , Shahnam Adel , Manoharan Sathya , Topp Monique , Mileshkin Linda , Lim Annette M , Whittle James R , Luen Stephen J , Solomon Benjamin , Lackovic Kurt , Desai Jayesh , Tran Ben
Published: June 2024

Background

Phase 1 oncology trials provide access to new therapies and may improve cancer outcomes. Phase 1 trials conducted in the Asian‐Pacific region are increasing at a faster rate than the global trend. This study aimed to describe the changing landscape of phase 1 oncology trials in Australia in the last decade.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study reviewed phase 1 oncology trials registered on ClinicalTrials.gov conducted in Australia. Phase 1 trials were included for analysis if they enrolled adults with solid organ malignancies, used at least one systemic agent, and were first registered between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2022. The number of trials, site locations, sponsor type, and drug class were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Over the 10‐year period, ClinicalTrials.gov included 493 phase 1 clinical trials across 71 Australian sites. Most sites were in metropolitan locations; in Melbourne, trials were concentrated within selected sites, while in Sydney, trials were spread across a larger number of sites. The number of phase 1 trials per annum increased from 18 in 2012 to 75 in 2022. Since 2020, emerging biopharmaceutical companies have become the predominant sponsor type, a trend that is also seen globally. While most trial sponsors were North American (42%), there was increasing representation from Asian sponsors over the 10‐year period (6% in 2012 to 39% in 2022). Immunomodulatory (45%) and targeted approaches (44%) accounted for most drug classes used alone or in combination.

Conclusions

There are an increasing number of phase 1 trials conducted within Australia. Sponsors of phase 1 trials are increasingly from Asian countries and are more likely to be emerging biopharmaceutical companies.
Clinical overview of phototherapy for neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia
Authors: Ebbesen Finn , Donneborg Mette Line
Published: June 2024

The most efficient emission spectrum of light for phototherapy is blue‐green light emission diode light with peak emission at 478 nm. In the irradiance interval of phototherapy, the relationship between efficacy and irradiance is almost linear, and it is negatively related to the haemoglobin. The action sites of phototherapy are the extravascular compartment and cutaneous blood. The most immature neonates treated aggressively had not only a lower frequency of neurodevelopmental impairment than conservatively treated, but also greater mortality. Intermittent and continuous phototherapy are assumed to be equally efficient. Home‐based fibreoptic phototherapy is effective and safe. Important progress is still occurring in phototherapy.
Physiology of lower gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Santucci Neha R. , Velez Alejandro
Published: June 2024

Background

The lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract, formed from the midgut and hindgut, encompasses the colon, rectum and anal canal.

Aim

The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the anatomy and physiology of the lower GI tract.

Methods

Literature review on anatomy and physiology of the lower GI tract, including normal motility and phases of defecation. It derives its blood supply from the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries while it is innervated by the extrinsic autonomic (the thoracolumbar and sacral nerves) and the intrinsic enteric nervous system. The colon has four layers: mucosa, submucosa, muscularis externa and serosa. The anal canal ends in the internal and external anal sphincters (EASs) involved in continence and defecation. The lower GI tract is predominantly involved in digestion, absorption, defecation and protection. Defecation is a complex process that requires inter‐neural (enteric and autonomic nervous systems), neurohormonal and neuromuscular coordination. It has four phases which include basal, pre‐expulsive, expulsive and end phase. High‐propagating contractions in the colon propel stool to the rectum leading to rectal distention and the recruitment of the recto‐anal inhibitory reflex. Once able, the EAS, under full conscious control, is then relaxed allowing stool to be evacuated. Other defecation reflexes include the gastrocolic, gastroileal and coloanal reflexes.

Conclusions

Recent advances provide novel techniques to investigate motility patterns including high‐resolution manometry protocols with automated assessments, magnetic resonance imaging techniques for defecography, wireless motility capsules and fecobionics.
Predictive modelling of stress, anxiety and depression: A network analysis and machine learning study
Authors: Ganai Umer Jon , Sachdev Shivani , Bhushan Braj
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study assessed predictors of stress, anxiety and depression during the COVID‐19 pandemic using a large number of demographic, COVID‐19 context and psychological variables.

Methods

Data from 741 adults were drawn from the Boston College daily sleep and well‐being survey. Baseline demographics, the long version of the daily surveys and the round one assessment of the survey were utilized for the present study. A Gaussian graphical model (GGM) was estimated as a feature selection technique on a subset of ordinal/continuous variables. An ensemble Random Forest (RF) machine learning algorithm was used for prediction.

Results

GGM was found to be an efficient feature selection method and supported the findings derived from the RF machine learning model. Psychological variables were significant predictors of stress, anxiety and depression, while demographic and COVID‐19‐related factors had minimal predictive value. The outcome variables were mutually predictive of each other, and negative affect and subjective sleep quality were the common predictors of these outcomes of stress, anxiety, and depression.

Conclusion

The study identifies risk factors for adverse mental health outcomes during the pandemic and informs interventions to mitigate the impact on mental health.
‘I'm a failure again, I can't do it’: Attitudes towards, and experiences of, exercise participation in adults with class III obesity
Authors: Orange Samuel T. , Roebuck Jessica , Marshall Phil , Madden Leigh A. , Vince Rebecca V. , Bell Beth T.
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Living within a larger body brings unique challenges to exercise participation, which are poorly understood. This qualitative study explored the attitudes towards, and experiences of, exercise participation in adults with class III obesity.

Design

Individual semi‐structured qualitative interviews.

Methods

We recruited 30 adults with class III obesity (body mass index: 45.8 ± 8.6 kg/m2) from a specialist multidisciplinary weight management service. Participants took part in semi‐structured interviews while participating in a 6‐month home‐based aerobic and resistance exercise intervention. Open‐ended questions were used flexibly to explore their views and experiences of exercise, encompassing barriers, motives and perceived benefits. Transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes were developed: (1) a web of barriers; (2) tailored exercise facilitates positive experiences; and (3) a desire to live a normal life. People with class III obesity perceived that they were unable to do exercise; a view that was attributed to perceived judgement, low physical function, pain during everyday activities and failed weight loss attempts. These complex physical and psychosocial barriers to exercise were described as contributing to exercise avoidance. High value was placed on tailored exercise that accommodates the unique needs of moving in a larger body. A desire to carry out everyday tasks underpinned motivations for exercise.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that multi‐component obesity interventions should move away from generic exercise prescriptions designed to maximize energy expenditure, and instead move towards addressing the unique physical and psychosocial needs of people who have class III obesity with tailored person‐centred and weight‐neutral exercise prescriptions.
Economic freedom for women and fertility
Authors: Lawson Kerianne
Published: June 2024

Numerous studies in the development economics literature examine the connection between fertility and economic development. The consensus in the research is that as a nation develops and incomes rise, fertility rates decline. However, economic freedom and policies aimed at generating economic opportunities for women may also affect fertility rates. This article utilizes the Economic Freedom of the World Index, and the associated Gender Disparity Index to discuss how economic freedom and, specifically, economic freedom for women is related to fertility, and other fertility‐related outcomes.
1106. Ophrys apifera Huds.
Authors: Fay Michael F. , Raistrick Reinhild , Bazzicalupo Miriam , Sayers Brendan , Calevo Jacopo
Published: June 2024

Ophrys apifera (BEE ORCHID) is illustrated here (Plate 1106). It is a widespread species, occurring in southern and western Europe (absent from most of Scotland and Scandinavia), extending into south‐western Asia and North Africa. A detailed description is provided, with notes on habitat and cultivation. Given its wide distribution, it is not threatened; however, collection in the eastern Mediterranean for salep production may lead to a decline in populations in the region.
Dermatologic adverse events caused by biologic treatments – Pathogenesis and management
Authors: Trefzer Laura Katharina , Pilz Anna Caroline , Eyerich Kilian
Published: June 2024

Biologics are approved for various dermatologic, allergic, rheumatic, and gastroenterologic inflammatory diseases, as well as for numerous malignancies. The dermatologic adverse events from treatment with biologics may resemble primary inflammatory diseases but differ in pathogenesis. In this article, we describe five different pathogenic mechanisms of dermatologic adverse events. By studying these mechanisms, we hope to gain valuable insights into the pathogenesis of primary inflammatory diseases. In addition, in this article, we provide recommendations for the treatment and management of the dermatological adverse events induced by biologics.
An experimental comparison of contributions in collective prevention games and public goods games
Authors: Flambard Véronique , Le Lec Fabrice , Romaniuc Rustam
Published: June 2024

In many collective action problems individuals' contributions increase the probability of a collectively favorable event rather than affect the quantity of public goods provided. Such problems, that we refer to as collective prevention games, remain largely unexplored in the literature. We fill this gap by setting up an experiment where subjects' contributions increase the probability of a fixed collective benefit or reduce the probability of a fixed negative externality. Our main result is a substantial increase in cooperation in the probabilistic loss environment compared to the deterministic one. We explore some behavioral mechanisms that could drive this result.
A tree's view of the terrain: downscaling bioclimate variables to high resolution using a novel multi‐level species distribution model
Authors: Kling Matthew M. , Baer Kathryn C. , Ackerly David D.
Published: June 2024

Fine‐scale spatial climate variation fosters biodiversity and buffers it from climate change, but ecological studies are constrained by the limited accessibility of relevant fine‐scale climate data. In this paper we introduce a novel form of species distribution model that uses species occurrences to predict high‐resolution climate variation. This new category of ‘bioclimate' data, representing micro‐scale climate as experienced by one or more species of interest, is a useful complement to microclimate data from existing approaches. The modeling method, called BISHOP for ‘bioclimate inference from species' high‐resolution occurrence patterns,' uses data on species occurrences, coarse‐scale climate, and fine‐scale physiography (e.g. terrain, soil, vegetation) to triangulate fine‐scale bioclimate patterns. It works by pairing a climate‐downscaling function predicting a latent bioclimate variable, with a niche function predicting species occurrences from bioclimate. BISHOP infers how physiography affects bioclimate, estimates how these effects vary geographically, and produces high‐resolution (10 m) maps of bioclimate over large regions. It also predicts species distributions. After introducing this approach, we apply it in an empirical study focused on topography and trees. Using data on 216 North American tree species, we document the biogeographic patterns that enable BISHOP, estimate how four terrain variables (northness, eastness, windward exposure, and elevational position) each influence three climate variables, and use these results to produce downscaled maps of tree‐specific bioclimate. Model validation demonstrates that inferred bioclimate outperforms macroclimate in predicting distributions of separate species not used during inference, confirming its ecological relevance. Our results show that nearby bioclimates can differ by 5°C in temperature and twofold in moisture, with equator‐facing, east‐facing, windward‐facing, and locally elevated sites exhibiting hotter, drier bioclimates on average. But these effects vary greatly across climate zones, revealing that topographically similar landscapes can differ strongly in their bioclimate variation. These results have important implications for micrometeorology, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Habitat quality or quantity? Niche marginality across 21 plants and animals suggests differential responses between highland and lowland species to past climatic changes
Authors: Araya‐Donoso Raúl , Biddy Austin , Munguía‐Vega Adrián , Lira‐Noriega Andrés , Dolby Greer A.
Published: June 2024

Climatic changes can affect species distributions, population abundance, and evolution. Such organismal responses could be determined by the amount and quality of available habitats, which can vary independently. In this study, we assessed changes in habitat quantity and quality independently to generate explicit predictions of the species' responses to climatic changes between Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) and present day. We built ecological niche models for genetic groups within 21 reptile, mammal, and plant taxa from the Baja California peninsula inhabiting lowland or highland environments. Significant niche divergence was detected for all clades within species, along with significant differences in the niche breadth and area of distribution between northern and southern clades. We quantified habitat quantity from the distribution models, and most clades showed a reduction in distribution area towards LGM. Further, niche marginality (used as a measure of habitat quality) was higher during LGM for most clades, except for northern highland species. Our results suggest that changes in habitat quantity and quality can affect organismal responses independently. This allows the prediction of genomic signatures associated with changes in effective population size and selection pressure that could be explicitly tested from our models.
Diverse genetic alteration dysregulates neuropeptide and intracellular signalling in the suprachiasmatic nuclei
Authors: Curtis Lucy , Piggins Hugh D.
Published: June 2024

In mammals, intrinsic 24 h or circadian rhythms are primarily generated by the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN). Rhythmic daily changes in the transcriptome and proteome of SCN cells are controlled by interlocking transcription‐translation feedback loops (TTFLs) of core clock genes and their proteins. SCN cells function as autonomous circadian oscillators, which synchronize through intercellular neuropeptide signalling. Physiological and behavioural rhythms can be severely disrupted by genetic modification of a diverse range of genes and proteins in the SCN. With the advent of next generation sequencing, there is unprecedented information on the molecular profile of the SCN and how it is affected by genetically targeted alteration. However, whether the expression of some genes is more readily affected by genetic alteration of the SCN is unclear. Here, using publicly available datasets from recent RNA‐seq assessments of the SCN from genetically altered and control mice, we evaluated whether there are commonalities in transcriptome dysregulation. This was completed for four different phases across the 24 h cycle and was augmented by Gene Ontology Molecular Function (GO:MF) and promoter analysis. Common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and/or enriched GO:MF terms included signalling molecules, their receptors, and core clock components. Finally, examination of the JASPAR database indicated that E‐box and CRE elements in the promoter regions of several commonly dysregulated genes. From this analysis, we identify differential expression of genes coding for molecules involved in SCN intra‐ and intercellular signalling as a potential cause of abnormal circadian rhythms.
Regulation of reinforcement learning parameters captures long‐term changes in rat behaviour
Authors: Cinotti François , Coutureau Etienne , Khamassi Mehdi , Marchand Alain R. , Girard Benoît
Published: June 2024

In uncertain environments in which resources fluctuate continuously, animals must permanently decide whether to stabilise learning and exploit what they currently believe to be their best option, or instead explore potential alternatives and learn fast from new observations. While such a trade‐off has been extensively studied in pretrained animals facing non‐stationary decision‐making tasks, it is yet unknown how they progressively tune it while learning the task structure during pretraining. Here, we compared the ability of different computational models to account for long‐term changes in the behaviour of 24 rats while they learned to choose a rewarded lever in a three‐armed bandit task across 24 days of pretraining. We found that the day‐by‐day evolution of rat performance and win‐shift tendency revealed a progressive stabilisation of the way they regulated reinforcement learning parameters. We successfully captured these behavioural adaptations using a meta‐learning model in which either the learning rate or the inverse temperature was controlled by the average reward rate.
Equine coital exanthema – Eradicated or underdiagnosed disease?
Authors: Żychska Monika , Matusz‐Łukawska Aleksandra , Pikuła Izabela , Dzięgelewska‐Sokołowska Żaneta , Azab Walid , Witkowski Lucjan
Published: June 2024

Equine coital exanthema (ECE) is a contagious, sexually transmitted disease affecting horses. It manifests itself as painful papules, vesicles, pustules and ulcers on the external genitalia in both mares and stallions. While widespread, the disease is generally not classified as reportable in most countries and is not considered a significant threat to the equine industry. ECE is endemic in horse breeding populations internationally. The absence of comprehensive epidemiological data can give a false sense of security, which increases the risk of local transmission. Lack of surveillance programmes or routine control in risk group (reproductive stallions and mares) leads to unawareness and lack of proper biosecurity measures. An outbreak in breeding facilities may result in significant economic consequences. Although ECE has not been officially confirmed in Poland, equine practitioners have noted isolated clinical cases resembling the disease in farm horses in the last decades. This study aims to confirm the presence of ECE in Poland. Clinical diagnosis has been made based on characteristic lesions. Positive diagnosis was confirmed in two out of four outbreaks by real‐time PCR on genital swabs. The presence of the disease has been confirmed in different regions in Poland in farm horses bred as meat animals. Confirming EHV‐3 infection in the Polish equine population through laboratory examinations marks a significant milestone. It is now crucial to raise awareness among owners, breeders and equine practitioners about the current epidemiological status of the disease.
Vertical pelvic movement asymmetry and lameness location in ipsilateral combined forelimb and hindlimb lameness cases
Authors: Means Kari , Hayden Lyndsey , Kramer Joanne , McCracken Megan Jill , Reed Shannon K. , Wilson David A. , Keegan Kevin George
Published: June 2024

Background

Compensatory vertical head and pelvis movement asymmetry may occur in trotting horses with a primary cause of lameness in one end of the body due to the weight shifting between limbs, leading to apparent combined forelimb and hindlimb lameness (CFHL). Little is known about CFHL patterns observed with body‐mounted inertial sensors (BMIS) and regardless of their underlying mechanisms, compensatory and secondary lameness may complicate the definitive identification of the primary causes of lameness.

Objective

Determine associations between vertical pelvic movement asymmetry and location of primary lameness in ipsilateral CFHL cases where hindlimb lameness is solely impact or push‐off type.

Study design

Retrospective cohort.

Methods

From a body‐mounted inertial sensor (BMIS) evaluated equine lameness database, we identified cases with a consistent, low‐variability ipsilateral impact (IpI) or ipsilateral pushoff (IpP) hindlimb lameness in a straight‐line trot and that had definitive diagnoses. Cases were categorised by lameness location to the limb(s), diagnosis, and ratio of the amplitude of forelimb to hindlimb lameness (Forea/Hinda). Differences in the numbers of IpI and IpP cases in these categories were analysed with chi‐square tests, effect sizes, and odds ratios.

Results

Among the 2375 total lameness cases screened, 49 IpI and 36 IpP cases met the criteria for consistency, low variability, and definitive diagnosis. IpI cases were more likely than IpP cases to have forelimb‐only lameness causes when Forea/Hinda >1 (OR = 43, 95% CI = 2.3–798). IpP cases were more likely than IpI cases to have hindlimb‐only causes at both Forea/Hinda >1.0 (OR = 20, 95% CI = 2.2–200) and <1.0 (OR = 14, 95% CI = 2.9–66.7). Compared with IpI, IpP cases were more frequently diagnosed with tendon, suspensory ligament, or high‐motion joint disorders in hindlimbs (OR = 3.6, 95% CI = 1.1–12.3) and less with unknown causes (OR = 13.2, 95% CI = 3.2–75.2). In IpI cases, positive forelimb regional anaesthesia often reduced hindlimb lameness, whereas in IpP cases, positive hindlimb regional anaesthesia typically lessened forelimb lameness.

Main limitations

Most cases were Quarter Horses. The likelihood of location and cause of lameness may be different for other breeds.

Conclusions

The type of pelvic movement asymmetry observed in IpI and IpP cases is linked to the location and underlying cause of the primary lameness.
Doppler renal resistivity index in horses: A systematic review
Authors: dos Santos Rosse Nathalia , Reis Emily Correna Carlo
Published: June 2024

Background

The resistivity index (RI) evaluates haemodynamic based on arterial resistance. Alterations in renal blood flow are important for the early detection of kidney damage, as perfusion might be one of the first affected aspects.

Objectives

To retrieve published studies on equine renal RI to develop a standardised method of renal ultrasonographic examination and to evaluate the current reference range for the renal RI in horses.

Study design

Systematic review.

Methods

An electronic search in Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases was performed in February 2023 using the terms ‘RI’ OR ‘resistivity index’ OR ‘IP’ OR ‘pulsatility index’ AND (kidney OR renal) AND (equine OR horse) in titles, keywords and abstracts. The studies were screened for inclusion based on pre‐determined criteria and data on the variables of interest were collected from included studies. The SYRCLE risk of bias tool was used to assess the methodological quality.

Results

The electronic searches identified 134 studies, of which 5 were eligible for inclusion in this review. The studies had been conducted in healthy non‐sedated horses through the transabdominal technique. The upper limit of normality for the renal RI was 0.58 ± 0.06 for the right kidney of untrained horses, which is considerably lower than the value of 0.70 currently used for humans, cats and dogs. There were heterogenous outcomes among the studies: two of the five demonstrated a difference between the right and left renal RI values, and one of the five showed an increased renal RI in elderly horses compared with foals and adult horses.

Main limitations

Data regarding the RI in horses are still scarce.

Conclusions

Additional studies that establish a reference range for the renal RI in horses are needed and there is a need to ensure consistency of techniques.
LGBTIQ+ access to assisted reproductive treatment
Authors: Page Stephen
Published: June 2024

This article provides an overview of barriers faced by LGBTQ+ people with respect to Assisted Reproductive Treatment (ART). It proceeds in four parts and addresses four different identities who may be impacted differently. The article first addresses access to ART by gay and single men. It then focuses on the question of who is recognized as a parent legally and how that impacts ART. The article next addresses reciprocal intravenous fertilization (IVF) issues for lesbian couples. Finally, it focuses on access to ART for transmen and women. ART impacts the LGBTQ+ community in unique ways depending on many factors, and this article provides an overview of those factors and the importance of addressing all of them.
The effects of resolution method of child custody and support plans on parental well‐being during the divorce process: Implications from and for divorce education
Authors: Crapo J. Scott , Turner Joshua J. , Higginbotham Brian J. , Bradford Kay
Published: June 2024

The majority of research on the impact of divorce on parents, children, and families focuses on what occurs after the divorce has been finalized. However, data derived from divorce education programs present opportunities for research on the experience of parents during the divorce process. Guided by the divorce‐stress‐adjustment model, this study sought to understand how the divorce process impacts parental well‐being by examining some of the most pressing child‐related concerns divorcing parents have while going through a divorce. Specifically, we looked at how the approach parents took to resolve child‐related issues (i.e., internally, through outside intervention, or unresolved) was related to the perceived fairness of child custody arrangements, parental concerns regarding how divorce impacts children, financial concerns, and their overall well‐being. Perceived fairness of the child custody arrangement, concerns regarding how divorce impacts children, and financial concerns were associated with parental well‐being, and also served as an indirect path through which approaches to resolve child‐related issues impacted parental well‐being. Understanding what parents think and feel during the divorce process, and how those thoughts and feelings are related to the actual steps to getting a divorce, could help inform divorce education typically administered as part of divorce proceedings.
Novel models for fatigue life prediction under wideband random loads based on machine learning
Authors: Sun Hong , Qiu Yuanying , Li Jing , Bai Jin , Peng Ming
Published: June 2024

Machine learning as a data‐driven solution has been widely applied in the field of fatigue lifetime prediction. In this paper, three models for wideband fatigue life prediction are built based on three machine learning models, that is, support vector regression (SVR), Gaussian process regression (GPR), and artificial neural network (ANN). All the three prediction models use the parameter b of the well‐known Tovo–Benasciutti (TB) model as their outputs to realize fatigue life prediction and their generalization abilities are enhanced by employing numerous power spectrum samples with different bandwidth parameters and a variety of material properties related to fatigue life. Sufficient Monte Carlo numerical simulations demonstrate that the newly developed machine learning models are superior to the traditional frequency‐domain models in terms of life prediction accuracy and the ANN model has the best overall performance among the three developed machine learning models.
Minimal interference of concizumab with standard clinical coagulation laboratory assays – An in vitro study
Authors: Augustsson Cecilia , Strandberg Karin , Kjalke Marianne
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Non‐factor replacement therapies are emerging as prophylactic treatment options in haemophilia A or B (HA/HB) with and without inhibitors. Concizumab is an anti‐tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) monoclonal antibody preventing factor (F)Xa inhibition and enhancing thrombin generation. Based on experience with other non‐factor therapies and extended half‐life products, there is a focus on potential interference with common clinical coagulation assays used to monitor patients treated with concizumab.

Aim

To evaluate the impact of concizumab on standard clinical coagulation assays.

Methods

Plasma samples (normal, HA/HB with/without inhibitors) in the presence/absence of added concizumab (250–16,000 ng/mL) were analysed in clinical assays including activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), prothrombin time (PT), FVIII and FIX one‐stage clot and chromogenic substrate assay, assays for detecting FVIII or FIX inhibitors and other assays for coagulation factors.

Results

Concizumab did not impact PT assays, but resulted in a small shortening of aPTT (up to 5 s in haemophilia plasma and 0.4 s in normal plasma). Concizumab had no, or only a minor impact on FVIII and FIX activity assays or Bethesda inhibitor assays. FXI and FXII activity in normal plasma, as measured by single factor aPTT‐based assay, was significantly increased in the presence of concizumab (+11% each). This was also the case for FVII and FX measured by PT‐based assays using plasma with 25% of FVII or FX (+64% and +22%, respectively).

Conclusion

The presence of concizumab did not, or only slightly, influence the outcome of standard clinical coagulation assays relevant for HA and HB.
A qualitative study on the perioperative experiences and demands of haemophilic arthropathy patients undergoing total joint replacement
Authors: Su Qian , Shao Yashuang , Bao Yunchun , Kan Yanan , Wu Bainv , Ye Fuying
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Total joint replacement is the optimal treatment option for patients with severe haemophilic arthritis. Current research emphasizes patient‐reported outcomes as a vital measure for evaluating surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Nevertheless, very limited information about the subjective experience of perioperative haemophiliacs in the literature, highlighting the need for exploration in this area.

Aim

To investigate the psychological experiences and health demands of haemophilic arthropathy patients during the perioperative period of total joint replacement.

Design

Qualitative descriptive research with semistructured individual interviews.

Methods

From June to September 2023, nine patients with severe haemophilic arthropathy who underwent total joint replacement at a Haemophilia Diagnosis and Treatment Centre in China were interviewed for average 37 min per person. Data were analysed using the traditional content analysis method and reported following the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research. The study is reported according to the COREQ checklist.

Results

Interviews described two main themes: (1) emotional decline which involves preoperative overoptimism, early postoperative anxiety and disease uncertainty during the early independent rehabilitation. (2) wellness aspiration which includes rehabilitation support and spiritual healing.

Conclusion

This study reveals the patients’ significant psychological changes and their well‐being aspiration, particularly out‐of‐hospital rehabilitation needs. Strengthening communication between multidisciplinary teams and patients, enhancing the involvement of nurses, broadening the scope of functions at primary Haemophilia Treatment Centres, and developing telerehabilitation, these concerted efforts may improve the overall treatment experience for patients.
Effects of a medium cut‐off dialyzer on inflammation and cardiac and vascular function in hemodialysis patients with heart failure
Authors: Ozarli Irem , Yeter Hacı Hasan , Sener Yusuf Ziya , Cebrailov Cebrail , Yildirim Tolga , Yilmaz Rahmi
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Expanded hemodialysis (HDx) could provide clearance of larger middle‐molecule uremic toxins. We compared the effect of hemodialysis with medium cut‐off membranes and high‐flux (HFHD) membranes regarding changes in inflammation and vascular and left ventricular function.

Methods

This was a single‐center, prospective, parallel‐group comparative study. Patients were divided into two groups (HDx: 25 patients and HFHD: 26 patients). All measurements were performed at baseline and 12 weeks. Serum c‐reactive protein, interkelukin‐18, pentraxin‐3, β‐2 microglobulin, and brain natriuretic peptide were measured. We used pulse wave velocity and augmentation index to assess arterial stiffness and echocardiography to evaluate left and right ventricular function.

Findings

We enrolled 51 patients. Although serum c‐reactive protein, interkelukin‐18, pentraxin 3, and β‐2 microglobulin were significantly decreased in the HDx group (p = 0.02, p < 0.001, p = 0.002, and p = 0.02, respectively), there was no significant change in HFHD group at 12th week. Serum c‐reactive protein and interkelukin‐18were significantly lower in the HDx group compared to the HFHD group in the 12th week (p = 0.007 and p = 0.03, respectively). We observed a significant decrease in pulse wave velocity in the HDx group at the end of the study (p = 0.03). Although there was no significant change in pulse wave velocity in the HFHD group, pulse wave velocity was similar between the HDx and HFHD groups in the 12th week. We detected a significant decrease in the mean isovolumetric relaxation time in the HDx group (p = 0.006). However, there was no significant difference in isovolumetric relaxation time between the HDx and HFHD groups in the 12th week.

Discussion

HDx provides better clearance of middle molecular uremic toxins and inflammatory biomarkers, and it may be associated with better central hemodynamic parameters and diastolic functions.
Physiotypic variations lead to variations within the normal range for red blood cells and haemoglobin levels in a healthy human population: An evaluation using generalised additive modelling and hierarchical structure analysis
Authors: Islam Zainul , Adnan Mohd , Noor Huma , Chaudhary Rohit , Farhan Mohd , Sherani F. S. , Rizvi Asim
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Haematological parameters have been used for a long time for clinical evaluations, however the dynamics of these parameters has not been studied at length, in healthy populations. We aim to understand the dependence of haematological parameters on human physiotypes.

Design and Methods

Using an age and gender restricted healthy human (male) population (n = 100), we attempt to analyse the dynamics of haemoglobin and red blood cells, with reference to age, height and weight of individuals. Using advanced generalised additive modelling and classical hierarchical structural analysis we aim to establish relationships between these parameters and human physiotypes.

Results

We demonstrate that definitive relationships can be established for number of red blood cells, haemoglobin levels, RDW‐CV, RDW‐SD and weight, height and age of individuals.

Conclusion

This study provides a proof of principle, that haematological parameters are dependent on physiotypic variation, within the normal ranges in a healthy population. It may also be noted that there is a definitive influence of height, weight and age on normal ranges and stratification by these factors might therefore make reference intervals narrower, in turn, possibly allowing more precise clinical decisions based on the complete blood count (CBC).
Monitoring Influenza C and D Viruses in Patients With Respiratory Diseases in Japan, January 2018 to March 2023
Authors: Shimizu Kohei , Kawakami Chiharu , Matsuzaki Yoko , Fujisaki Seiichiro , Nagata Shiho , Morita Hiroko , Watanabe Kayo , Miura Hideka , Momoki Tomoko , Saikusa Miwako , Ozawa Hiroki , Kumazaki Makoto , Usuku Shuzo , Tanaka Nobuko , Senda Ryuichi , Okubo Ichiro , Watanabe Shinji , Hasegawa Hideki , Kawaoka Yoshihiro , Takashita Emi
Published: June 2024

Background

Influenza viruses can cause zoonotic infections that pose public health risks. Surveillance of influenza A and B viruses is conducted globally; however, information on influenza C and D viruses is limited. Longitudinal monitoring of influenza C virus in humans has been conducted in several countries, but there has been no long‐term monitoring of influenza D virus in humans. The public health risks associated with the influenza D virus therefore remain unknown.

Methods

We established a duplex real‐time RT‐PCR to detect influenza C and D viruses and analyzed respiratory specimens collected from 2144 patients in Japan with respiratory diseases between January 2018 and March 2023. We isolated viruses and conducted hemagglutination inhibition tests to examine antigenicity and focus reduction assays to determine susceptibility to the cap‐dependent endonuclease inhibitor baloxavir marboxil.

Results

We detected three influenza C viruses belonging to the C/Kanagawa‐ or C/Sao Paulo‐lineages, which recently circulated globally. None of the specimens was positive for the influenza D virus. The C/Yokohama/1/2022 strain, isolated from the specimen with the highest viral RNA load and belonging to the C/Kanagawa‐lineage, showed similar antigenicity to the reference C/Kanagawa‐lineage strain and was susceptible to baloxavir.

Conclusions

Our duplex real‐time RT‐PCR is useful for the simultaneous detection of influenza C and D viruses from the same specimen. Adding the influenza D virus to the monitoring of the influenza C virus would help in assessing the public health risks posed by this virus.
Comprehensively analysis of IL33 in hepatocellular carcinoma prognosis, immune microenvironment and biological role
Authors: Wei Lifang , He Ping , Tan Zhongqiu , Lin Cheng , Wei Zhongheng
Published: June 2024

IL33 plays an important role in cancer. However, the role of liver cancer remains unclear. Open‐accessed data was obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas, Xena, and TISCH databases. Different algorithms and R packages are used to perform various analyses. Here, in our comprehensive study on IL33 in HCC, we observed its differential expression across cancers, implicating its role in cancer development. The single‐cell analysis highlighted its primary expression in endothelial cells, unveiling correlations within the HCC microenvironment. Also, the expression level of IL33 was correlated with patients survival, emphasizing its potential prognostic value. Biological enrichment analyses revealed associations with stem cell division, angiogenesis, and inflammatory response. IL33's impact on the immune microenvironment showcased correlations with diverse immune cells. Genomic features and drug sensitivity analyses provided insights into IL33's broader implications. In a pan‐cancer context, IL33 emerged as a potential tumour‐inhibitor, influencing immune‐related molecules. This study significantly advances our understanding of IL33 in cancer biology. IL33 exhibited differential expression across cancers, particularly in endothelial cells within the HCC microenvironment. IL33 is correlated with the survival of HCC patients, indicating potential prognostic value and highlighting its broader implications in cancer biology.