bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors for pre‐transplantation bacteremia in adults with end‐stage liver disease: Effects on outcomes of liver transplantation
Authors: Lee Ing‐Kit , Chang Po‐Hsun , Li Wei‐Feng , Yeh Cheng‐His , Yin Shih‐Min , Lin Yu‐Cheng , Tzeng Wei‐Juo , Liu Yu‐Ling , Wang Chih‐Chi , Chen Chao‐Long , Lin Chih‐Che , Chen Yi‐Chun
Published: October 2023

Background and aim

Limited data are available regarding pre‐liver transplantation (LT) bacteremia in adults with end‐stage liver disease. In this study, we investigated the risk factors independently associated with pre‐LT bacteremia and their effects on clinical outcomes of LT.

Methods

This retrospective study performed between 2010 and 2021 included 1287 LT recipients. The study population was categorized into patients with pre‐LT bacteremia and those without pre‐LT infection. Pre‐LT bacteremia was defined as bacteremia detected within 90 days before LT.

Results

Among 1287 LT recipients, 92 (7.1%) developed pre‐LT bacteremia. The mean interval between bacteremia and LT was 28.3 ± 19.5 days. Of these 92 patients, seven (7.6%) patients died after LT. Of the 99 microorganisms isolated in this study, gram‐negative bacteria were the most common microbes (72.7%). Bacteremia was mainly attributed to spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. The most common pathogen isolated was Escherichia coli (25.2%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (18.2%), and Staphylococcus aureus (15.1%). Multivariate analysis showed that massive ascites (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.67, 95% confidence Interval [CI] 1.048–2.687) and a prolonged international normalized ratio for prothrombin time (adjusted OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.074–1.257) were independent risk factors for pre‐LT bacteremia in patients with end‐stage liver disease. Intensive care unit and in‐hospital stay were significantly longer, and in‐hospital mortality was significantly higher among LT recipients with pre‐LT bacteremia than among those without pre‐LT infection.

Conclusions

This study highlights predictors of pre‐LT bacteremia in patients with end‐stage liver disease. Pre‐LT bacteremia increases the post‐transplantation mortality risk.
Turning gold into lead: The troubling fate of the police drug diversion initiative
Authors: Manderson Desmond
Published: October 2023

Introduction

This paper explores the fate of South Australia's highly regarded Police Drug Diversion Initiative over the past 10 years.

Methods

The paper uses historical and legal analysis, including publicly available data as to rates of drug use, arrests and diversions, media reports, legislation and Hansard debates.

Results

In the mid‐2010s, amidst growing anxiety about levels of amphetamine‐type stimulants use in Adelaide, a coroner's report became the poster child for what was seen by the Liberal opposition as the excessive leniency and ‘waste of resources’ of the Police Drug Diversion Initiative. Despite being universally praised for its efficacy, the Liberal government, when elected, passed amendments to the legislation which ‘capped’ diversions at two. This ended the period in which diversions from criminal to social justice systems was mandatory for all persons charged with simple drug possession. But since then, the diversion rate in South Australia has plummeted in ways that cannot be explained merely because of these amendments.

Discussion and Conclusions

The most highly regarded scheme for diversion of minor drug offenders to treatment is no longer effective. Indeed, the best scheme in the country may now be the worst. The essay draws attention to a catastrophe whose extent is not yet fully appreciated and suggests ways in which we can begin to explain why such a small change has had such dramatic and unforeseen consequences. Like some sort of perverse alchemy, Australia's gold standard for drug diversion has been turned into lead.
Full‐body blue light irradiation as treatment for atopic dermatitis: a randomized sham‐controlled clinical trial (AD‐Blue)
Authors: Buhl Timo , Santibanez Santana Marisol , Forkel Susann , Kromer Christian , Seidel Julia , Möbs Christian , Pfützner Wolfgang , Pfeiffer Sebastian , Laubach Hans‐Joachim , Boehncke Wolf‐Henning , Liebmann Joerg , Born Matthias , Schön Michael Peter
Published: October 2023

Background

Visible blue light (wavelength 400–495 nm) is a promising new treatment option for both psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (AD). Whilst previous clinical trials featured various devices and blue light at a variety of wavelengths, none of these interventions were challenged in objective clinical criteria.

Patients and Methods

Eighty‐seven patients diagnosed with AD were enrolled in AD‐Blue, an international, prospective, double‐blinded, three‐armed (415 nm vs. 450 nm vs. sham control), randomized trial designed to investigate the safety and efficacy of prototype full‐body blue light devices.

Results

Full‐body irradiation with 450 nm blue light but not 415 nm had a significant impact on itch (Itch‐VAS, –1.6 ± 2.3; p  =  0.023 vs. sham irradiation). PO‐SCORAD values also decreased significantly in response to irradiation at 415 nm (–11.5 ± 18.4; p = 0.028 vs. sham irradiation). None of the other outcome measures (EASI, SCORAD, IGA, DLQI) changed significantly. No safety signals were observed. Evaluation of skin transcriptomes, cytokine levels in serum, and ELISpots from peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from a subset of patients revealed moderate decreases in IL‐31 in response to irradiation with blue light.

Conclusions

Despite its favorable safety profile and moderate reductions in itch and IL‐31 levels, full‐body blue light irradiation did not lead to an amelioration of any of the objective measures of AD.
Types of diabetes during pregnancy and risk of depression and anxiety in offspring from childhood to young adulthood
Authors: Xiang Anny H. , Lin Jane C. , Chow Ting , Martinez Mayra P. , Negriff Sonya , Page Kathleen A. , McConnell Rob , Carter Sarah A.
Published: October 2023

Aims

To assess maternal pre‐existing type 1 diabetes (T1D), type 2 diabetes (T2D), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during pregnancy and risk of depression and anxiety from childhood to young adulthood in offspring.

Materials and Methods

This birth cohort included singletons born during 1995‐2015, followed using electronic medical records through 2020. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratio (HR) of depression or anxiety diagnosis during follow‐up associated with in‐utero exposure to maternal diabetes.

Results

Among 439 590 offspring, 29 891 (6.8%) had depression and 51 918 (11.8%) had anxiety. T1D, followed by T2D and GDM requiring antidiabetes medication were associated with risk of depression and anxiety in offspring. Compared with no diabetes during pregnancy, the adjusted HRs (95% confidence interval) of depression in offspring associated with T1D, T2D or GDM requiring medications were 1.44 (1.09‐1.91), 1.30 (1.15‐1.47) and 1.18 (1.11‐1.26) respectively; conversely, HRs were 0.97 (0.82‐1.15) for T2D and 0.99 (0.94‐1.04) for GDM without medications. The associations with anxiety followed similar patterns. The significant associations were observed for offspring ages 5‐12 and >12‐18 years and attenuated for 18‐25 years.

Conclusion

These data suggest that the severity of diabetes (T1D vs. T2D requiring medications vs. GDM requiring medications) during pregnancy may increase the vulnerability of offspring for depression or anxiety.
Proportion of participants with type 2 diabetes achieving a metabolic composite endpoint with once‐weekly semaglutide treatment versus comparators: Post hoc pooled analysis from SUSTAIN 1‐5, 7‐10 and SUSTAIN China
Authors: Ji Linong , Ahmann A. J. , Ahrén B. , Capehorn M. S. , Hu P. , Lingvay I. , Liu W. , Rodbard H. W. , Shen Z. , Sorli C.
Published: October 2023

Aim

To compare the proportion of participants with type 2 diabetes (T2D) treated with once‐weekly (OW) subcutaneous (SC) semaglutide versus comparators who achieved a composite metabolic endpoint.

Materials and Methods

SUSTAIN 1‐5, 7‐10 and SUSTAIN China trial data were pooled. Participants with T2D (aged ≥18 years) and glycated haemoglobin ≥7.0% (≥53 mmol/mol) who had been randomized to OW SC semaglutide (0.5 or 1.0 mg) or comparator in addition to background medication. Using patient‐level data pooled by treatment, proportions of participants achieving the metabolic composite endpoint, defined as glycated haemoglobin <7% (<53 mmol/mol), blood pressure <140/90 mmHg and non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol <130 mg/dl (<3.37 mmol/L), were evaluated following baseline adjustments. Endpoints were analysed per trial using a binomial logistic regression model with treatment, region/country and stratification factor as fixed effects and baseline value as covariate. Pooled analysis used logistic regression with treatment and trial as fixed effects and baseline value as covariate.

Results

This post hoc analysis included data from 7633 participants across 10 trials. The proportion of participants who achieved the metabolic composite endpoint was significantly higher with OW SC semaglutide 0.5 and 1.0 mg versus comparators (23.7% and 32.0% vs. 11.5%, respectively; p < .0001). Likewise, when the OW SC semaglutide doses were pooled, significantly higher proportions of patients receiving semaglutide achieved the composite metabolic endpoint versus comparators (29.1% vs. 11.4%, respectively; p < .0001).

Conclusions

Treatment with OW SC semaglutide versus comparators was associated with increased proportions of participants with T2D meeting the composite metabolic endpoint.
Does the power of the king stop at the village gate? Embeddedness and provincial development in Vietnam
Authors: Trinh Trong‐Anh , Feeny Simon
Published: October 2023

At a subnational level, studies typically find that embedded or local leaders are better at providing public goods relative to leaders appointed from other areas. This paper tests whether this finding holds in the context of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Specifically, it examines the impact of a cadre transfer policy whereby the central government assigns (nonresident) officials to provincial leadership positions rather than them being elected locally. Using data covering the period 2005–2017, changes in the development of provinces led by local (embedded) leaders versus nonlocal leaders are compared. Provincial development is measured using the incidence of headcount poverty as well as “vegetation” and “build‐up” indices constructed using satellite data. Using fixed‐effects modeling, findings suggest that improved provincial development is associated with nonlocal leaders. This finding is in contrast to those of existing studies including those examining embeddedness in other authoritarian states.
A trait‐based approach to assess niche overlap and functional distinctiveness between non‐indigenous and native species
Authors: Vivó‐Pons Antoni , Blomqvist Mats , Törnroos Anna , Lindegren Martin
Published: October 2023

Our understanding of the community assembly processes acting on non‐indigenous species (NIS), as well as the relationship with native species is limited, especially in marine ecosystems. To overcome this knowledge gap we here develop a trait‐based approach based on the functional distinctiveness metric to assess niche overlap between NIS and native species, using high‐resolution data on benthic invertebrate communities in the Baltic Sea. Our results show that NIS retain a certain degree of similarity with native species, but display one or a few singular unique traits (e.g., bioturbation ability). Furthermore, we demonstrate that community assembly processes, including both environmental filtering and limiting similarity affect NIS establishment, but that their effects may be highly context dependent, as illustrated by pronounced spatial patterns in distinctiveness. Finally, our trait‐based approach provides a generic framework applicable to other areas and organisms, to better understand and address biological invasions.
High intraspecific growth variability despite strong evolutionary legacy in an Amazonian forest
Authors: Schmitt Sylvain , Hérault Bruno , Derroire Géraldine
Published: October 2023

Tree growth is key to species performance. However, individual growth variability within species remains underexplored for a whole community, and the role of species evolutionary legacy and local environments remains unquantified. Based on 36 years of diameter records for 7961 trees from 138 species, we assessed individual growth across an Amazonian forest. We related individual growth to taxonomy, topography and neighbourhood, before exploring species growth link to functional traits and distribution along the phylogeny. We found most variation in growth among individuals within species, even though taxonomy explained a third of the variation. Species growth was phylogenetically conserved up to the genus. Traits of roots, wood and leaves were good predictors of growth, suggesting their joint selection during convergent evolutions. Neighbourhood crowding significantly decreased individual growth, although much of inter‐individual variation remains unexplained. The high intraspecific variation observed could allow individuals to respond to the heterogeneous environments of Amazonian forests.
Guillain−Barré syndrome and SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: a systematic review and meta‐analysis on a debated issue and evidence for the ‘Italian factor’
Authors: Censi Stefano , Bisaccia Giandomenico , Gallina Sabina , Tomassini Valentina , Uncini Antonino
Published: October 2023

Background and purpose

The association between Guillain−Barré syndrome (GBS) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is debated. This study reappraises, after three pandemic years, the epidemiological data and the features of GBS in SARS‐CoV‐2 patients.

Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of case reports/series and cohort studies published between 1 January 2020 and 19 April 2023 was performed.

Results

In all, 209 case reports/series (304 patients) and 26 cohort studies were included. The risk of GBS in northern Italy during the first pandemic wave was 2.85 times increased (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.54; 5.25) whereas in some countries the risk during the first pandemic year was 0.17 times reduced (risk ratio 0.83, 95% CI 0.75; 0.93). The incidence of GBS in SARS‐CoV‐2 Italian hospitalized cohorts was 8.55 per 1000 (95% CI 5.33; 12.49) with an estimated incidence of 0.13 GBS per 1000 in the SARS‐CoV‐2 infected population. In European cohorts the pooled rate of GBS with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was 61.3% of the total. GBS patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection showed more frequently, but not differently from non‐infected patients, the classical clinical presentation and the demyelinating subtype. Cranial nerves were more frequently involved in SARS‐CoV‐2 infected patients.

Conclusions

An increased risk of GBS occurred in northern Italy during early COVID‐19 pandemic. The recognition of the ‘Italian factor’ reconciles contrasting results of the epidemiological studies. The slightly reduced GBS risk in other countries and the relatively high frequency of GBS associated with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection can be explained by the adopted health measures that decreased the circulation of other GBS infective antecedents.
Biological control potential of a laboratory selected generalist parasitoid versus a co‐evolved specialist parasitoid against the invasiveDrosophila suzukii
Authors: Istas Oscar , Szűcs Marianna
Published: October 2023

A few generations of laboratory selection can increase the developmental success of native parasitoids on invasive targets. However, for this approach to be used more widely for biological control, we need to understand if the improved performance of native species, achieved under artificial laboratory conditions, translates to improved control in more natural environments. It is also unknown what the biocontrol potential of laboratory selected generalist native parasitoids may be compared to co‐evolved specialists that are typically introduced for biological control of invasive species. To assess how rearing in artificial diet affected host finding ability in natural hosts, we used laboratory selected (adapted) and nonadapted populations of the generalist native parasitoidTrichopria drosophilaeto parasitize the invasive fly,Drosophila suzukiiin three different fruit types. In a separate experiment, we compared the effectiveness of adapted and nonadapted populations ofT. drosophilaein raspberries with a co‐evolved specialist larval parasitoidGanaspis brasiliensisfrom Asia that was recently approved for release in the USA. More adult parasitoids emerged in each fruit type of the adapted compared to the nonadapted population ofT. drosophilae.D. suzukiiemergence rates were reduced on average by 85% by the adaptedT. drosophilaepopulation indicating that the artificial rearing conditions did not significantly impair the ability of parasitoids to locate and attack hosts in natural hosts. The specialistG. brasiliensishad higher adult emergence than the adapted population ofT. drosophilae; however, both parasitoid species were able to reduceD. suzukiipopulations to the same extent. These results show that despite the lower developmental success of the laboratory selectedT. drosophilae, they killed the same proportion ofD. suzukiiasG. brasiliensiswhen host choice was restricted. In nature, where host choices are available, specialist and generalist parasitoids will be unlikely to exhibit the same biocontrol potential.
Secure transmission of ocean images using deep learning‐based data hiding
Authors: Singh Himanshu Kumar , Singh Kedar Nath , Singh Amit Kumar
Published: October 2023

Data hiding has become a hot research topic in recent years due to increased attention placed on the copyright protection of ocean images and related digital records. Further, high image volumes put enormous pressure on transmission bandwidth and storage capabilities. This paper proposes an innovative deep learning‐based data‐hiding technique for ocean images. First, a down‐sampling scheme is applied to compress the secret mark before embedding it in the host media. Then, a convolutional neural network is used to embed and recover compressed marks into or from the host ocean image. Finally, a generative adversarial network‐based reconstruction network is used to reconstruct the high‐quality mark image. Our experiments show that the proposed work not only maintains high imperceptibility and robustness against many attacks but also provides better data‐hiding performance than related works.
Exploring low‐income, Black fathers' strengths and barriers to positive change using qualitative methods
Authors: Russell Katie N. , Withrow Ashley , Voith Laura , Vernon Carmen , Lee Hyunjune , McKinney Sherise
Published: October 2023

Objective

The goal was to explore low‐income, Black fathers' personal strengths and barriers to engaged fatherhood, healthy relationships, and economic stability.

Background

Fatherhood programs often rely on case management and education to promote positive fathering, healthy relationships, and economic stability. However, methods should be tailored to fit the strengths and needs of participating fathers. Low‐income, Black fathers face additional challenges related to systemic discrimination and structural violence that can hinder their success. To effectively serve this group, research is required to understand their relevant strengths and barriers.

Methods

Semistructured focus groups explored fathers' personal strengths and barriers specific to the three areas of interest with fatherhood program staff (n = 8) and enrolled fathers (n = 26). Thematic analysis was conducted then systematically vetted by community scholars (previously enrolled or graduated fathers).

Results

Fathering strengths included empathy, listening skills, and active family participation. Barriers included limited custody or access, individual constraints, and unmet social needs. Participants contextualized these findings with structural issues related to coparenting and the legal system (e.g., biased court systems). Men's relationship strengths included mutual respect and teamwork. Barriers included past trauma, lack of healthy relationship models, and relationship strain. Economic stability strengths included financial literacy and motivation to provide, whereas barriers included legal history, financial obligations, and limited resources.

Conclusion

These findings highlight key individual‐level strengths and barriers grounded in fathers' intersectional identities as predominantly low‐income, Black men.

Implications

Programs serving low‐income, Black fathers should consider tailoring their programming to the lived experiences of participants to navigate these critical barriers and amplify assets for success.
Exploring signals of myopathy associated with statin and contraindicated comedications in the realworld
Authors: Park Sewon , Lee Ju Won , Nam Dal Ri , Jung Sun‐Young
Published: October 2023

Background

Using statins in combination with other drugs was reported to increase the risk of myopathy. However, there was a sparse number of studies on the incidence of adverse events (AEs) associated with the concomitant use of statin and contraindicated drugs in the real world.

Objectives

This study aimed to identify the risk of concomitant use of statins with contraindicated drugs by exploring signals related to statin–drug interactions.

Methods

We performed a disproportionality analysis for drugs and AEs by applying the case/non‐case study using the KIDS KAERS DB (2105A0027), 2016–2020. A case was defined as an individual case safety reports (ICSRs) including “rhabdomyolysis/myopathy.” A non‐case was defined as an ICSR, including all other AEs. We applied Ω shrinkage measure model, chi‐square statics model, additive model, multiplicative model, and combination risk ratio model to detect signals of myopathy due to statin with concomitant drugs including antiviral agents, immunosuppressants, and antifungals.

Results

Among 1 011 234 ICSRs, 2708 were cases, with 861 cases of statin monotherapy and 1248 of concomitant uses of statin. The adjusted reporting odds ratios were 3.27 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.11–3.43), 8.70 (95% CI: 8.04–9.40), and 1.83 (95% CI: 1.73–1.94), respectively. Several combinations of signals were detected through an additive model or multiplicative model.

Conclusion

Signals of an increased risk of myopathy associated with the use of statins with concomitant drugs, including contraindicated drugs, were confirmed in a real‐world setting.
Structural reliability analysis of aircraft wing rib fatigue cracking using surrogate dynamic Bayesian network
Authors: Park Saejin , Cho Hwanjeong , Park Sungryul , Lee Dooyoul
Published: October 2023

Dynamic Bayesian networks (DBNs) are crucial for evaluating time‐sensitive structural risks in aircraft, yet their inherent complexity can create substantial computational demands. This research introduces a surrogate model, specifically a two‐layer artificial neural network (ANN), to replace the most computationally intensive node in the DBN, typically associated with an ordinary differential equation solver. The surrogate model was chosen after comparing 24 regression machine learning models and optimizing hyperparameters, leading to a significant reduction in computational time and an improvement over traditional methods such as Monte Carlo simulations. The surrogate model demonstrates practical significance with its conservative risk estimations and successful application to a real‐world structural fatigue issue in an F‐4E aircraft intermediate rib. The unique aspect of this research lies in the strategic application of ANN to mitigate computational challenges, thereby enhancing the performance of DBN in fatigue risk analysis.
Creep mechanical properties and creep damage model of sandstone considering temperature effect based on acoustic emission
Authors: Pan Xiaokang , Zhou Xiaoping , Zou Yulin , Lei Deming , Berto Filippo
Published: October 2023

This work studies the creep mechanical properties and creep damage model of high‐temperature heat treated sandstone. Acoustic emission (AE) technology is used to monitor the crack evolution of sandstone in uniaxial compression and creep experiments in real time. The influence of temperature on the mechanical properties of sandstone is analyzed through AE count, cumulative AE count, and AE absolute energy. The relationship between cumulative AE count and axial strain is discussed, and the cumulative AE count increases exponentially with increasing axial strain. Moreover, an appropriate damage evolution equation is established based on the cumulative AE count, and a nonlinear viscoelastic‐plastic model capable of describing the decay creep, steady‐stage creep, and accelerated creep stages of high‐temperature heat treated sandstone is constructed. Through the model validation and parameter inversion, the new creep damage model can be employed to study the creep instability of geotechnical engineering under high temperature environment.
Accounting for herbaceous communities in process‐based models will advance our understanding of “grassy” ecosystems
Authors: Wilcox Kevin R. , Chen Anping , Avolio Meghan L. , Butler Ethan E. , Collins Scott , Fisher Rosie , Keenan Trevor , Kiang Nancy Y. , Knapp Alan K. , Koerner Sally E. , Kueppers Lara , Liang Guopeng , Lieungh Eva , Loik Michael , Luo Yiqi , Poulter Ben , Reich Peter , Renwick Katherine , Smith Melinda D. , Walker Anthony , Weng Ensheng , Komatsu Kimberly J.
Published: October 2023

Grassland and other herbaceous communities cover significant portions of Earth's terrestrial surface and provide many critical services, such as carbon sequestration, wildlife habitat, and food production. Forecasts of global change impacts on these services will require predictive tools, such as process‐based dynamic vegetation models. Yet, model representation of herbaceous communities and ecosystems lags substantially behind that of tree communities and forests. The limited representation of herbaceous communities within models arises from two important knowledge gaps: first, our empirical understanding of the principles governing herbaceous vegetation dynamics is either incomplete or does not provide mechanistic information necessary to drive herbaceous community processes with models; second, current model structure and parameterization of grass and other herbaceous plant functional types limits the ability of models to predict outcomes of competition and growth for herbaceous vegetation. In this review, we provide direction for addressing these gaps by: (1) presenting a brief history of how vegetation dynamics have been developed and incorporated into earth system models, (2) reporting on a model simulation activity to evaluate current model capability to represent herbaceous vegetation dynamics and ecosystem function, and (3) detailing several ecological properties and phenomena that should be a focus for both empiricists and modelers to improve representation of herbaceous vegetation in models. Together, empiricists and modelers can improve representation of herbaceous ecosystem processes within models. In so doing, we will greatly enhance our ability to forecast future states of the earth system, which is of high importance given the rapid rate of environmental change on our planet.
Habitat‐based biodiversity responses to macroclimate and edaphic factors in European fen ecosystems
Authors: Jiménez‐Alfaro Borja , Aunina Liene , Carbognani Michele , Dítě Daniel , Fernández‐Pascual Eduardo , Garbolino Emmanuel , Hájek Ondřej , Hájková Petra , Ivchenko Tatiana G. , Jandt Ute , Jansen Florian , Kolari Tiina H. M. , Pawlikowski Paweł , Pérez‐Haase Aaron , Peterka Tomáš , Petraglia Alessandro , Plesková Zuzana , Tahvanainen Teemu , Tomaselli Marcello , Hájek Michal
Published: October 2023

Understanding large‐scale drivers of biodiversity in palustrine wetlands is challenging due to the combined effects of macroclimate and local edaphic conditions. In boreal and temperate fen ecosystems, the influence of macroclimate on biodiversity is modulated by hydrological settings across habitats, making it difficult to assess their vulnerability to climate change. Here, we investigate the influence of macroclimate and edaphic factors on three Essential Biodiversity Variables across eight ecologically defined habitats that align with ecosystem classifications and red lists. We used 27,555 vegetation plot samples from European fens to assess the influence of macroclimate and groundwater pH predictors on the geographic distribution of each habitat type. Additionally, we modeled the relative influence of macroclimate, water pH, and water table depth on community species richness and composition, focusing on 309 plant specialists. Our models reveal strong effects of mean annual temperature, diurnal thermal range, and summer temperature on biodiversity variables, with contrasting differences among habitats. While macroclimatic factors primarily shape geographic distributions and species richness, edaphic factors emerge as the primary drivers of composition for vascular plants and bryophytes. Annual precipitation exhibits non‐linear effects on fen biodiversity, with varying impact across habitats with different hydrological characteristics, suggesting a minimum requirement of 600 mm of annual precipitation for the occurrence of fen ecosystems. Our results anticipate potential impacts of climate warming on European fens, with predictable changes among habitat types and geographic regions. Moreover, we provide evidence that the drivers of biodiversity in boreal and temperate fens are closely tied to the ecological characteristics of each habitat type and the dispersal abilities of bryophytes and vascular plants. Given that the influence of macroclimate and edaphic factors on fen ecosystems is habitat specific, climate change research and conservation actions should consider ecological differentiation within functional IUCN ecosystems at continental and regional scales.
Simulating carbon accumulation and loss in the central Congo peatlands
Authors: Young Dylan M. , Baird Andy J. , Morris Paul J. , Dargie Greta C. , Mampouya Wenina Y. Emmanuel , Mbemba Mackline , Boom Arnoud , Cook Peter , Betts Richard , Burke Eleanor , Bocko Yannick E. , Chadburn Sarah , Crabtree Dafydd E. , Crezee Bart , Ewango Corneille E. N. , Garcin Yannick , Georgiou Selena , Girkin Nicholas T. , Gulliver Pauline , Hawthorne Donna , Ifo Suspense A. , Lawson Ian T. , Page Susan E. , Jovani‐Sancho A. Jonay , Schefuß Enno , Sciumbata Matteo , Sjögersten Sofie , Lewis Simon L.
Published: October 2023

Peatlands of the central Congo Basin have accumulated carbon over millennia. They currently store some 29 billion tonnes of carbon in peat. However, our understanding of the controls on peat carbon accumulation and loss and the vulnerability of this stored carbon to climate change is in its infancy. Here we present a new model of tropical peatland development, DigiBog_Congo, that we use to simulate peat carbon accumulation and loss in a rain‐fed interfluvial peatland that began forming ~20,000 calendar years Before Present (cal. yr BP, where ‘present’ is 1950 CE). Overall, the simulated age‐depth curve is in good agreement with palaeoenvironmental reconstructions derived from a peat core at the same location as our model simulation. We find two key controls on long‐term peat accumulation: water at the peat surface (surface wetness) and the very slow anoxic decay of recalcitrant material. Our main simulation shows that between the Late Glacial and early Holocene there were several multidecadal periods where net peat and carbon gain alternated with net loss. Later, a climatic dry phase beginning ~5200 cal. yr BP caused the peatland to become a long‐term carbon source from ~3975 to 900 cal. yr BP. Peat as old as ~7000 cal. yr BP was decomposed before the peatland's surface became wetter again, suggesting that changes in rainfall alone were sufficient to cause a catastrophic loss of peat carbon lasting thousands of years. During this time, 6.4 m of the column of peat was lost, resulting in 57% of the simulated carbon stock being released. Our study provides an approach to understanding the future impact of climate change and potential land‐use change on this vulnerable store of carbon.
Extreme and compound ocean events are key drivers of projected low pelagic fish biomass
Authors: Le Grix Natacha , Cheung William L. , Reygondeau Gabriel , Zscheischler Jakob , Frölicher Thomas L.
Published: October 2023

Ocean extreme events, such as marine heatwaves, can have harmful impacts on marine ecosystems. Understanding the risks posed by such extreme events is key to develop strategies to predict and mitigate their effects. However, the underlying ocean conditions driving severe impacts on marine ecosystems are complex and often unknown as risks to marine ecosystems arise not only from hazards but also from the interactions between hazards, exposure and vulnerability. Marine ecosystems may not be impacted by extreme events in single drivers but rather by the compounding effects of moderate ocean anomalies. Here, we employ an ensemble climate‐impact modeling approach that combines a global marine fish model with output from a large ensemble simulation of an Earth system model, to identify the key ocean ecosystem drivers associated with the most severe impacts on the total biomass of 326 pelagic fish species. We show that low net primary productivity is the most influential driver of extremely low fish biomass over 68% of the ocean area considered by the model, especially in the subtropics and the mid‐latitudes, followed by high temperature and low oxygen in the eastern equatorial Pacific and the high latitudes. Severe biomass loss is generally driven by extreme anomalies in at least one ocean ecosystem driver, except in the tropics, where a combination of moderate ocean anomalies is sufficient to drive extreme impacts. Single moderate anomalies never drive extremely low fish biomass. Compound events with either moderate or extreme ocean conditions are a necessary condition for extremely low fish biomass over 78% of the global ocean, and compound events with at least one extreme variable are a necessary condition over 61% of the global ocean. Overall, our model results highlight the crucial role of extreme and compound events in driving severe impacts on pelagic marine ecosystems.
Combining remote sensing and tracking data to quantify species' cumulative exposure to anthropogenic change
Authors: Buchan Claire , Gilroy James J. , Catry Inês , Hewson Chris M. , Atkinson Philip W. , Franco Aldina M. A.
Published: October 2023

Identifying when and where organisms are exposed to anthropogenic change is crucial for diagnosing the drivers of biodiversity declines and implementing effective conservation measures. Accurately measuring individual‐scale exposure to anthropogenic impacts across the annual cycle as they move across continents requires an approach that is both spatially and temporally explicit—now achievable through recent parallel advances in remote‐sensing and individual tracking technologies. We combined 10 years of tracking data for a long‐distance migrant, (common cuckoo, Cuculus canorus), with multi‐dimensional remote‐sensed spatial datasets encompassing thirteen relevant anthropogenic impacts (including infrastructure, hunting, habitat change, and climate change), to quantify mean hourly and total accumulated exposure of tracked individuals to anthropogenic change across each stage of the annual cycle. Although mean hourly exposure to anthropogenic change was greatest in the breeding stage, accumulated exposure to changes associated with direct mortality risks (e.g., built infrastructure) and with climate were greatest during the wintering stage, which comprised 63% of the annual cycle on average for tracked individuals. Exposure to anthropogenic change varied considerably within and between migratory flyways, but there were no clear between‐flyway differences in overall exposure during migration stages. However, more easterly autumn migratory routes were significantly associated with lower subsequent exposure to anthropogenic impacts in the winter stage. Cumulative change exposure was not significantly associated with recent local‐scale population trends in the breeding range, possibly because cuckoos from shared breeding areas may follow divergent migration routes and therefore encounter very different risk landscapes. Our study highlights the potential for the integration of tracking data and high‐resolution remote sensing to generate valuable and detailed new insights into the impacts of environmental change on wild species.
Draining the Swamp? Populist leadership and corruption
Authors: Zhang Dong
Published: October 2023

The resurgence of populism has presented a grave threat to democratic governance across the globe. Drawing on a cross‐national dataset of 155 countries from 1960 to 2020, we leverage the leadership turnovers within countries and use fixed effects models to estimate the effect of populist leadership on corruption. We find that populist leadership is associated with a substantial increase in executive corruption, but not other types of corruption. We also provide evidence that populist leaders are more likely to undermine judicial and legislative constraints, which in turn opens the door for massive executive corruption. We further show that whereas affluent resources exacerbate populist leaders' corruption, high‐quality bureaucracies, strong opposition parties, vigorous civil society organizations, and critical media work to mitigate the effect of populist leadership on corruption. This study contributes to the understanding of the nexus between populism and corruption and, more broadly, coping strategies for democratic backsliding.
Antimicrobial‐resistant Helicobacter pylori in Japan: Report of nationwide surveillance for 2018–2020
Authors: Okimoto Tadayoshi , Ando Takashi , Sasaki Makoto , Ono Shoko , Kobayashi Intetsu , Shibayama Keigo , Chinda Daisuke , Tokunaga Kengo , Nakajima Shigemi , Osaki Takako , Sugiyama Toshiro , Kato Mototsugu , Murakami Kazunari
Published: October 2023

Background

Antimicrobial therapy is necessary to eradicate Helicobacter pylori infection. The emergence of antimicrobial‐resistant bacteria poses a threat to continued treatment with antimicrobial agents. For those who prescribe antimicrobial therapy, it is necessary to constantly monitor the emergence of antimicrobial‐resistant bacteria.

Method

H. pylori clinical isolates were collected in Japan from August 2018 to December 2020 for antimicrobial susceptibility testing. The agar dilution method was used for the determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of clarithromycin (CLR), amoxicillin (AMX), metronidazole (MNZ), and sitafloxacin (STX).

Results

MICs for 938 H. pylori isolates were examined. The primary resistance rates of H. pylori clinical isolates for CLR, AMX, MNZ, and STX in Japan were 35.5%, 2.7%, 4.2%, and 27.6%, respectively. The primary resistance rates for CLR, AMX, and MNZ were significantly higher than those of the 2002–2005 isolates. The resistance rate for CLR was significantly higher in females (males: 30.7%, females: 41.5%, p < 0.001) and higher in the ≤29 years age group (54.8%) than in the other age groups, although there were no significant differences (p = 0.104). The MNZ resistance rate was significantly higher in the ≤29 years age group than in the other age groups (p = 0.004). The resistance rate for STX increased with age, but a significant difference was only seen between the 30–49 years age group and the ≥70 years age group (p < 0.001), and the resistance rate was significantly higher in strains isolated in the Kyushu region than in the other regions (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The primary resistance rates for CLR, AMX, and MNZ of H. pylori clinical isolates in Japan were higher than those of the 2002–2005 isolates. Continuous surveillance is needed to monitor the trends in antimicrobial‐resistant H. pylori.
What should inpatient psychological therapies be for? Qualitative views of service users on outcomes
Authors: Morgan Ceri , Clarkson Lucy , Hiscocks Rebecca , Hopkins India , Berry Katherine , Tyler Natasha , Wood Lisa , Jacobsen Pamela
Published: October 2023

Background

There is limited research on what, when and how outcomes should be measured in psychological therapy trials in acute mental health inpatient wards.

Objectives

This study aimed to consider what outcomes service users think are important to measure.

Methods

This qualitative study explored the views of 14 participants, who had an inpatient admission within the last year, on outcomes of psychological therapies using semistructured interviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis from a critical realist perspective with both inductive and deductive coding.

Results

The 126 outcomes that were important to participants were mapped onto an established taxonomy of outcomes across different health areas and the socioecological framework to consider the wider context and help summarise the outcomes. Most of the outcomes were mapped to the intrapersonal and interpersonal level. In addition to the outcome mapping, three themes were constructed from the qualitative data: (1) I am not a problem I am a person, (2) Feeling cared for and loved, (3) What does getting better look like.

Conclusions

Our results highlight the need for patient‐reported outcomes which are cocreated with service users, disseminating research and training on preventing dehumanising experiences, enhancing psychological safety and therapeutic relationships and improving access to psychological therapy.

Patient or Public Contribution

The wider People with Personal Experience Involvement Committee at the University of Bath were consulted which included a focus group during the early planning stages. We also collaborated with a person with personal experience, at every stage of the research. This included developing our research question and aims, protocol, participant documents (e.g., information and debrief forms), advertisement and recruitment strategy, interview topic guide, the codes, the final themes and quotes and reviewing the manuscript. People with lived experience of being admitted to an acute mental health inpatient ward participated in our study.
Moving subjects: Directions and methodological challenges in the historical study of migrant children and youth
Authors: Fratantuono Ella , Martin Alyssa
Published: October 2023

Over the last decade and a half, scholars have demonstrated increased interest in studying the history of young people, as signalled by an expanding presence of relevant societies and journals. Though children and young people comprise a significant number of the world's current migrant population, young migrants in the past are not often the central focus of historical research. This article aims to encourage historians of migration and forced migration to increase their engagement with the histories of children, youth, and childhood. Young migrants are moving subjects: they traverse space and time, and their portrayal often encourages compassion. Since the 18th century, they have frequently inhabited social ‘categories of exception,’ and as such have lent meaning to the category of ‘adult’ and ‘citizen’ and to normative expectations of families, communities, and society at large. With this in mind, we suggest that integrating histories of child and youth migration and mobility offers opportunities to reassess historiographical, methodological, and conceptual questions in the field of migration studies, including the relationship of policy to research, the creation of typologies, and the temporality of labels.
Implication of cytoplasmic p53 expression in pulmonary neuroendocrine carcinoma using next‐generation sequencing analysis
Authors: Jimbo Naoe , Ohbayashi Chiho , Fujii Tomomi , Takeda Maiko , Mitsui Suguru , Tsukamoto Ryuko , Tanaka Yugo , Itoh Tomoo , Maniwa Yoshimasa
Published: October 2023

Aims

Cytoplasmic p53 expression indicates a high frequency of TP53 abnormalities in gynaecological carcinoma. However, the implication of this expression in pulmonary neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) remains unclear. Thus, our study aimed to fill this research gap.

Methods and results

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) of p53 was performed on 146 cases of resected small‐cell lung carcinoma and large‐cell NEC, and next‐generation sequencing was conducted on cases showing cytoplasmic and wild‐type p53 expression. IHC revealed overexpression in 57% of the cases (n = 83), complete absence in 31% (n = 45), cytoplasmic expression in 8% (n = 12) and wild‐type expression in 4% (n = 6) of the cases. TP53 mutations were identified in nine of the 13 cases with available genetic analysis. The TP53 mutation rates in cases with cytoplasmic and wild‐type p53 expression were 88% (seven of eight) and 40% (two of five), respectively. All seven cases showing cytoplasmic expression with TP53 mutations harboured loss‐of‐function type mutations: four had mutations in the DNA‐binding domain, two in the nuclear localisation domain and one in the tetramerisation domain. Clinically, cases with cytoplasmic p53 expression had a poor prognosis similar to that in cases with p53 overexpression or complete absence.

Conclusions

Cytoplasmic p53 expression in patients with pulmonary NEC suggests a high TP53 mutation rate, which is associated with a poor prognosis similar to that in patients with p53 overexpression or complete absence. This cytoplasmic expression should not be misidentified as a wild‐type expression. This is the first report, to our knowledge, that demonstrates the implication of cytoplasmic p53 expression in pulmonary NEC.
HIV cure: Are we going to make history?
Authors: Payra Shuvasree , Manjhi Pramod Kumar , Singh Shruti , Kumar Rajesh , Singh Sunil Kumar , Kumar Alok , Maharshi Vikas
Published: October 2023

Background

At present, combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) is the mainstay for the treatment of people living with HIV/AIDS. cART can suppress the viral load to a minimal level; however, the possibility of the emergence of full‐blown AIDS is always there. In the latter part of the first decade of the 21st century, an HIV‐positive person received stem cell transplantation (SCT) for treatment of his haematological malignancy. The patient was able to achieve remission of the haematological condition as well as of HIV following SCT. Thorough investigations of various samples including blood and biopsy could not detect the virus in the person's body. The person was declared to be the first cured case of HIV.

Literature search

Over the next decade, a few more similar cases were observed and have recently been declared cured of the infection. A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, Cochrane library and Google Scholar. Four such additional cases were found in literature.

Description & Discussion

These cases all share a common proposed mechanism for the HIV cure, that is, transplantation of stem cells from donors carrying a homozygous mutation in a gene encoding for CCR5 (receptor utilized by HIV for entry into the host cell), denoted as CCR5△32. This mutation makes the host immune cells devoid of CCR5, causing the host to acquire resistance against HIV. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review to look at relevant and updated information of all cured cases of HIV as well as the related landmarks in history and discusses the underlying mechanism(s).