bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are subadult dispersers at high risk of mortality in translocated populations? A case study from a threatened mesopredator
Authors: Bilby Jack , Moseby Katherine
Published: March 2024

Natal dispersal and survival are the primary means of population expansion in reintroduction projects, but few projects intensively monitor the offspring of released individuals. Subadults may differ from adults in their susceptibility to threats or their habitat requirements which may require alternate management strategies. We investigated survival rates, habitat use and shelter site choice during natal dispersal in reintroduced western quolls (Dasyurus geoffroii). We compared data previously collected on the first cohort of subadults born to founders (n = 17) with subadults from an established cohort 6 years after release (n = 22). Subadult quolls were radiotracked after weaning to monitor survival and habitat use and the effects of sex and size on mortality, dispersal distance, habitat selection and shelter choice were investigated in the established cohort. We confirmed high survival with no confirmed deaths among the established cohort and only two confirmed deaths among F1 founders (12%) during the 26 weeks of monitoring. All individuals remained within the area where introduced predators, a key threat to quolls, were intensively managed through aerial baiting. Males dispersed significantly further than females, with consistent outward expansion of up to 13‐km and increased movement between shelter sites occurring between mid‐December and early‐February. During dispersal, both sexes displayed a similar preference for woodland habitats and avoidance of open areas to adult quolls. The founding cohort primarily used rabbit warrens as shelter sites, whereas the established cohort after release used more hollow logs and tree hollows. This change may indicate gradual selection towards these safer shelter sites and filial transfer of this preference to offspring. Monitoring subadult movement, mortality and habitat use is integral to determining population viability and the effectiveness of management actions in reintroduction programs.
The effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on the human skeletal muscle transcriptome
Authors: Flodin Johanna , Reitzner Stefan M. , Emanuelsson Eric B. , Sundberg Carl Johan , Ackermann Paul
Published: March 2024

Aim

The influence on acute skeletal muscle transcriptomics of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), as compared to established exercises, is poorly understood. We aimed to investigate the effects on global mRNA‐expression in the quadriceps muscle early after a single NMES‐session, compared to the effects of voluntary knee extension exercise (EX), and to explore the discomfort level.

Methods

Global vastus lateralis muscle gene expression was assessed (RNA‐sequencing) in 30 healthy participants, before and 3 h after a 30‐min session of NMES and/or EX. The NMES‐treatment was applied using textile electrodes integrated in pants and set to 20% of each participant's pre‐tested MVC mean (±SD) 200 (±80) Nm. Discomfort was assessed using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS, 0–10). The EX‐protocol was performed at 80% of 1‐repetition‐maximum.

Results

NMES at 20% of MVC resulted in VAS below 4 and induced 4448 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with 80%‐overlap of the 2571 DEGs of EX. Genes well‐known to be up‐regulated following exercise, for example, PPARGC1A, ABRA, VEGFA, and GDNF, were also up‐regulated by NMES. Gene set enrichment analysis demonstrated many common pathways after EX and NMES. Also, some pathways were exclusive to either EX, for example, muscle tissue proliferation, or to NMES, for example, neurite outgrowth and connective tissue proliferation.

Conclusion

A 30‐min NMES‐session at 20% of MVC with NMES‐pants, which can be applied with an acceptable level of discomfort, induces over 4000 DEGs, of which 80%‐overlap with DEGs of EX. NMES can induce exercise‐like molecular effects, that potentially can lead to health and performance benefits in individuals who are unable to perform resistance exercise.
Prevalence and risk factors of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease in south Central Uganda: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Enriquez Rocio , Homsi Mahmoud , Ssekubugu Robert , Nabukalu Dorean , Zeebari Zangin , Marrone Gaetano , Gigante Bruna , Chang Larry W. , Reynolds Steven J. , Nalugoda Fred , Ekström Anna Mia , Hagström Hannes , Nordenstedt Helena
Published: March 2024

Background

Despite numerous risk factors and serious consequences, little is known about metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) at population level in Africa.

Aim

The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of MASLD in people living with and without HIV in Uganda.

Methods

We collected data from 37 communities in South Central Uganda between May 2016 and May 2018. We estimated MASLD prevalence using the fatty liver index and advanced liver fibrosis using the dynamic aspartate‐to‐alanine aminotransferase ratio. We collected additional data on sociodemographics, HIV and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. We used multivariable logistic regression to determine the association between HIV, CVD risk factors and MASLD.

Results

We included 759 people with HIV and 704 HIV‐negative participants aged 35–49. MASLD prevalence was 14% in women and 8% in men; advanced liver fibrosis prevalence was estimated to be <1%. MASLD prevalence was more common in women (15% vs. 13%) and men (9% vs. 6%) with HIV. Being female (odds ratio [OR] = 2.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.4–3.3) was associated with a higher odds of MASLD after adjustment for confounders; HIV infection was borderline associated with MASLD (OR = 1.4; 95% CI: 1.0–2.0).

Conclusions

In a relatively young cohort in Uganda, 14% of women and 8% of men had MASLD. There was an indication of an association between HIV and MASLD in multivariable analysis. These data are the first to describe the population‐level burden of MASLD in sub‐Saharan Africa using data from a population‐based cohort.
Debate: Involuntary treatment and detention are a necessary part of mental health care for children and young people
Authors: Walker Susan
Published: March 2024

People of all ages are subject to involuntary psychiatric detention and treatment worldwide but there is current discussion about whether this complies with modern human rights law. The use of involuntary psychiatric hospitalisation among children and young people has largely eschewed research and policy interest to date. In this debate section, we hear from people with experience of child mental health services in the UK, USA and low‐ and middle‐income countries about their views on the use of involuntary treatment in young people.
Initial surgical management of sporadic medullary thyroid cancer: Guidelines based optimal care ‐ A systematic review
Authors: Cohen Oded , Tzelnick Sharon , Randolph Gregory , Rinaldo Alessandra , Álvarez Fernando , Rodrigo Juan P. , Saba Nabil F. , Nuyts Sandra , Corry June , Mäkitie Antti A. , Vander Poorten Vincent , Nathan Cherie‐Ann , Piazza Cesare , Ferlito Alfio
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor from parafollicular cells that produce calcitonin (Ct). Despite several existing guidelines for the surgical management of sporadic MTC (sMTC), optimal initial surgical management of the thyroid, the central and the lateral neck remains a matter of debate.

Methods

A systematic review in PubMed and Scopus for current guidelines addressing the surgical management of sMTC and its referenced citations was conducted as per the PRISMA guidelines.

Results

Two‐hundred and one articles were identified, of which 7 met the inclusion criteria. Overall, guidelines vary significantly in their recommendations for the surgical management of sMTC. Only one guideline recommended partial thyroidectomy for limited disease, but the possibility to avoid completion thyroidectomy in selected cases is acknowledged in 42% (3/7) of the remaining guidelines. The majority of guidelines (71.4%; 5/7) recommended prophylactic central neck dissection (CND) for all patients while the remaining two guidelines recommended CND based on Ct level and tumor size. The role of prophylactic lateral neck dissection based on preoperative Ct levels was recommended by 42% (3/7) of guidelines. Overall, these guidelines are based on low‐quality evidence, mostly single‐center retrospective series, some of which are over 20 years old.

Conclusion

Current surgical management guidelines of sMTC should be revised, and ought to be based on updated data challenging current recommendations, which are based on historic, low‐quality evidence. Partial thyroidectomy may become a viable option for small, limited tumors. Prospective, multi‐center studies may be useful to conclude whether prophylactic ND is necessary in all sMTC patients.
The severity assessment of Parkinson's disease based on plasma inflammatory factors and third ventricle width by transcranial sonography
Authors: Lu Yue , Dong Wenwen , Xue Xingya , Sun Jian , Yan Jiuqi , Wei Xiang , Chang Lei , Zhao Liang , Luo Bei , Qiu Chang , Zhang Wenbin
Published: March 2024

Background

Predicting Parkinson's disease (PD) can provide patients with targeted therapies. However, disease severity can be roughly evaluated in clinical practice based on the patient's symptoms and signs.

Objective

The current study attempted to explore the factors linked with PD severity and construct a predictive model.

Method

The PD patients and healthy controls were recruited from our study center while recording their basic demographic information. The serum inflammatory markers levels, such as Cystatin C (Cys C), C‐reactive protein (CRP), RANTES (regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted), Interleukin‐10 (IL‐10), and Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) were determined for all the participants. PD patients were categorized into early and mid‐advanced groups based on the Hoehn and Yahr (H‐Y) scale and evaluated using PD‐related scales. LASSO logistic regression analysis (Model C) helped select variables based on clinical scale evaluations, serum inflammatory factor levels, and transcranial sonography measurements. The optimal harmonious model coefficient λ was determined via 10‐fold cross‐validation. Moreover, Model C was compared with multivariate (Model A) and stepwise (Model B) logistic regression. The area under the curve (AUC) of a receiver operator characteristic (ROC), brier score, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) helped determine the discrimination and calibration of the predictive model, followed by configuring a forest plot and column chart.

Results

The study included 113 healthy individuals and 102 PD patients, with 26 early and 76 mid‐advanced patients. Univariate analysis of variance screened out statistically significant differences among inflammatory markers Cys C and RANTES. The average Cys C level in the mid‐advanced stage was significantly higher than in the early stage (p < 0.001) but not for RANTES (p = 0.740). The LASSO logistic regression model (λ.1se = 0.061) associated with UPDRS‐I, UPDRS‐II, UPDRS‐III, HAMA, PDQ‐39, and Cys C as the included independent variables revealed that the Model C discrimination and calibration (AUC = 0.968, Brier = 0.049) were superior to Model A (AUC = 0.926, Brier = 0.079) and Model B (AUC = 0.929, Brier = 0.071) models.

Conclusion

The study results show multiple factors are linked with PD assessment. Moreover, the inflammatory marker Cys C and transcranial sonography measurement could objectively predict PD symptom severity, helping doctors monitor PD evolution in patients while targeting interventions.
Application of the integrated threat theory to conservation law enforcement
Authors: Soofi Mahmood , Ghasemi Benjamin , Ahmadpour Mohsen , Soufi Mobin , Islami Iman , Eckert Alaina , Arabi Mohammad Hossein Gorjian , Qashqaei Ali T. , Selyari Javad , Nasirahmadi Kamran , Kamp Johannes , Waltert Matthias , Addison Jane , Pavey Chris R.
Published: March 2024

Interactions between law enforcement agents in conservation (e.g., rangers) and illegal resource users (e.g., illegal hunters) can be violent and sometimes fatal, which negatively affects conservation efforts and people's well‐being. Models from social psychology, such as integrated threat theory (ITT) (intergroup interactions shape intergroup emotions, prejudices and perceived threats leading to hostile attitudes or behaviors between groups), are useful in addressing such interactions. Conservation approaches relying mainly on law enforcement have never been investigated using this framework. Using a structured questionnaire, we collected data from 282 rangers in protected and unprotected areas (n = 50) in northern Iran. We applied Bayesian structural equation modeling in an assessment of rangers’ affective attitudes (i.e., emotions or feelings that shape attitudes toward a person or object) toward illegal hunters in an ITT framework. Rangers’ positive perceptions of illegal hunters were negatively associated with intergroup anxiety (emotional response to fear) and negative stereotypes about a hunter's personality, which mediated the relationship between negative contact and affective attitudes. This suggests that negative contact, such as verbal abuse, may lead rangers to perceive illegal hunters as arrogant or cruel, which likely forms a basis for perceived threats. Rangers’ positive contact with illegal hunters, such as playing or working together, likely lowered their perceived realistic threats (i.e., fear of property damage). Perceived realistic threats of rangers were positively associated with negative contacts (e.g., physical harm). The associations we identified suggest that relationships based on positive interactions between rangers and illegal hunters can reduce fear and prejudice. Thus, we suggest that rangers and hunters be provided with safe spaces to have positive interactions, which may help lower tension and develop cooperative conservation mechanisms.
Loss of species and functions in a deforested megadiverse tropical forest
Authors: Fuzessy Lisieux , Pavoine Sandrine , Cardador Laura , Maspons Joan , Sol Daniel
Published: March 2024

Tropical species richness is threatened by habitat degradation associated with land‐use conversion, yet the consequences for functional diversity remain little understood. Progress has been hindered by difficulties in obtaining comprehensive species‐level trait information to characterize entire assemblages and insufficient appreciation that increasing land‐cover heterogeneity potentially compensates for species loss. We examined the impacts of tropical deforestation associated with land‐use heterogeneity on bird species richness, functional redundancy, functional diversity, and associated components (i.e., alpha diversity, species dissimilarity, and interaction strength of the relationship between abundance and functional dissimilarity). We analyzed over 200 georeferenced bird assemblages in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. We characterized the functional role of the species of each assemblage and modeled biodiversity metrics as a function of forest cover and land‐cover heterogeneity. Replacement of native Atlantic Forest with a mosaic of land uses (e.g., agriculture, pastures, and urbanization) reduced bird species richness in a nonrandom way. Core forest species, or species considered sensitive to edges, tended to be absent in communities in heterogenous environments. Overall, functional diversity and functional redundancy of bird species were not affected by forest loss. However, birds in highly heterogenous habitats were functionally distinct from birds in forest, suggesting a shift in community composition toward mosaic‐exclusive species led by land‐cover heterogeneity. Threatened species of the Atlantic Forest did not seem to tolerate degraded and heterogeneous environments; they remained primarily in areas with large forest tracts. Our results shed light on the complex effects of native forest transformation to mosaics of anthropogenic landscapes and emphasize the importance of considering the effects of deforestation and land‐use heterogeneity when assessing deforestation effects on Neotropical biodiversity.
Short‐ and long‐term outcomes of acute diverticulitis in patients with transplanted kidneys
Authors: Nantais Jordan , Baxter Nancy N. , Saskin Refik , Calzavara Andrew , Gomez David
Published: March 2024

Aim

The safety of nonoperative treatment for patients with transplanted kidneys who develop acute diverticulitis is unclear. Our primary aim was to examine the long‐term sequelae of nonoperative management in this group.

Method

We performed a population‐based retrospective cohort study using linked administrative databases housed at ICES in Ontario, Canada. We included adult (≥18 years) patients admitted with acute diverticulitis between April 2002 and December 2019. Patients with a functioning kidney transplant were compared with those without a transplant. The primary outcome was failure of conservative management (operation, drainage procedure or death due to acute diverticulitis) beyond 30 days. The cumulative incidence function and a Fine–Grey subdistribution hazard model were used to evaluate this outcome accounting for competing risks.

Results

We examined 165 patients with transplanted kidneys and 74 095 without. Patients with transplanted kidneys were managed conservatively 81% of the time at the index event versus 86% in nontransplant patients. Short‐term outcomes were comparable, but cumulative failure of conservative management at 5 years occurred in 5.6% (95% CI 2.3%–11.1%) of patients with transplanted kidneys versus 2.1% (95% CI 2.0%–2.3%) in those without. Readmission for acute diverticulitis was also higher in transplanted patients at 5 years at 16.7% (95% CI 10.1%–24.7%) versus 11.6% (95% CI 11.3%–11.9%). Adjusted analyses showed increased failure of conservative management [subdistribution hazard ratio (sHR) 3.24, 95% CI 1.69–6.22] and readmissions (sHR 1.55, 95% CI 1.02–2.36) for patients with transplanted kidneys.

Conclusion

Most patients with transplanted kidneys are managed conservatively for acute diverticulitis. Although long‐term readmission and failure of conservative management is higher for this group than the nontransplant population, serious outcomes are infrequent, substantiating the safety of this approach.
Feralization: A threat to conservation of wild reindeer
Authors: Mysterud Atle , Flagstad Øystein , Strand Olav
Published: March 2024

Conservation reintroduction is an increasingly applied tool for population restoration. The choice of source population is important from a conservation genetic perspective, but there is ambiguity in IUCN policies surrounding reintroductions from (semi‐)domestic sources. After the depopulation of an entire wild reindeer population due to detection of chronic wasting disease in Norway, the plan is to re‐establish reindeer after years of fallowing. Establishing wild reindeer has become challenging due to arguments for disease control favoring a semidomestic origin of the reintroduced stock. Selection is strong during domestication, and feralization does not lead to a full reversal towards wild traits. From a conservation perspective, we advocate future guidelines to include a ranking when wild, captive, semidomestic, and domestic stocks are available for reintroductions, in order to avoid feralization whenever possible during reintroductions and rewilding efforts.
Telephone follow‐up after outpatient nail surgery – a retrospective analysis
Authors: Giordano Anna , Löser Christoph R. , Dippel Edgar , Hofmann Silke C. , Mohr Peter , Schneider Stefan W. , Balakirski Galina
Published: March 2024

Background

One of the areas of care in dermatosurgery is the surgical treatment of diseases of the nail organ. Side effects and complications after nail surgery were investigated by telephone follow‐up (TFU), and its suitability for postoperative monitoring and consultation was assessed.

Patients and Methods

All patients who underwent nail surgery at the Department of Dermatology at the Ludwigshafen City Hospital from October 2019 to December 2021 in outpatient setting were contacted by telephone on the second to third postoperative day and questioned in a standardized manner about postoperative complaints and counselled if necessary.

Results

A total of 100 cases were followed up. The most common procedures performed were phenol matricectomy (41%), nail avulsion (16%), and nail matrix biopsies (9%). 50% and 21% of patients reported pain on the day of the procedure and the day after surgery, respectively. After nail avulsion, pain was statistically significantly more frequently reported on the day following the procedure and pain medication was statistically significantly more frequently required (p  =  0.002). Serious adverse events did not occur after nail surgery. 10% of the respondents raised specific questions and needed counseling by TFU.

Conclusions

All nail surgeries were well tolerated in the outpatient setting. Pain was the most common side effect, although only half of all patients reported pain on the day of surgery and only 21% on the day after the procedure. The TFU proved to be an effective and practical as well as easy to establish method for postoperative follow‐up and consultation after outpatient nail surgery.
Changes in oral functions and speech when using custom‐fitted mouthguards: An uncontrolled before‐and‐after study
Authors: Mat Zainal Muhammad Khiratti , Liew Amy Kia Cheen , Abdullah Dalia , Soo Eason , Abdul Hamid Badrulzaman , Ramlee Roza Anon Mohd
Published: March 2024

Background/Aim

Mouthguards are crucial for protecting athletes against orofacial injuries, yet concerns persist regarding their potential impact on oral functions. This study aimed to investigate the effects of sports mouthguards on oral functions and speech over time.

Material and Methods

Thirty national rugby players received custom‐fitted mouthguards. Questionnaire responses and speech recordings were collected before mouthguard use and at various intervals after using mouthguards: immediately, 1 week, 2 month, and 6 months. Spectrographic analysis was performed to measure voice onset time (VOT) for /p, b, t, d/ phonemes. Questionnaire responses were assessed with Friedman's test, while VOT changes were examined using one‐way repeated measure analysis of variance.

Results

Compliance with mouthguard use improved during training and competitions, with consistent wear reported during matches. Over time, speaking difficulties and lisping decreased significantly (p < .001). The perception of nausea improved (p < .001), stabilizing after 1 month (p = .414). Sensations of bulkiness declined (p < .001). Mouth dryness reduced steadily, with no occurrences reported by all players by the end of the study. None of the participants reported bad breath, ulcers, or redness in the mouth. VOT changed immediately after wearing mouthguards (p < .001), gradually regressing toward the baseline, although not completely reaching it. Players held a favorable view of mouthguard use, with comfort and support for mandatory use increasing over time.

Conclusions

Custom‐fitted mouthguards do not lead to significant long‐term disruptions in oral functions. Athletes generally adapt to mouthguard use, reporting improved comfort and greater support for their use.
Enhancing mouthguard longevity: Impact of surface treatment against aging from brushing and disinfectant exposure
Authors: Haddad e Borro Larissa , de Queiroz Talita Suelen , da Cruz Beatriz Serralheiro , Demachkia Amir Mohidin , Borges Alexandre Luiz Souto , Tribst João Paulo Mendes , Paes Junior Tarcisio Jose de Arruda
Published: March 2024

Background/Aims

The study aimed to assess the surface characteristics of sports mouthguards under mechanical stresses during cleaning, either by brushing or immersion in disinfectant solutions.

Material and Methods

Ethylene‐vinyl acetate samples, 4 mm thick, were randomly assigned to cleaning methods: control (C—no cleaning), brushing with water (B.W), brushing with neutral liquid soap (B.S), brushing with toothpaste (B.T), immersion in distilled water for 10 min (I.W), immersion in 2.25% sodium hypochlorite solution for 10 min (I.SH), and immersion in sodium bicarbonate solution for 5 min (I.SB). All cleaning methods were applied for 28 days. Surface roughness average (Ra) and wettability were measured at baseline for the control group (n = 9), and after cleaning for all the other groups.

Results

One‐way ANOVA with Tukey tests (5% significance) indicated significant differences among groups (p < .05). The I.SB group had higher surface roughness than B.S and B.T (p < .05). B.W showed the lowest wettability, significantly lower than B.T, I.W, and I.SB (p < .05). I.SB exhibited the highest wettability, significantly different from sodium hypochlorite, neutral liquid soap, brushing with water, and control groups (p < .05). The sodium bicarbonate immersion group (I.SB) demonstrated greater statistical variation, displaying higher susceptibility to aging compared to brushing with neutral liquid soap.

Conclusion

Cleaning mouthguards with a toothbrush, water, and neutral liquid soap emerged as the most promising method, causing minimal surface changes in the material.
Intraradicular reinforcement of traumatized immature anterior teeth after MTA apexification
Authors: Chotvorrarak Kanet , Danwittayakorn Supatra , Banomyong Danuchit , Suksaphar Warattama
Published: March 2024

This review article describes the methods and clinical recommendations for reinforcing traumatized anterior immature teeth with pulp necrosis treated with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) apexification. Traumatic injury can cause pulp necrosis and incomplete root formation in immature teeth. MTA apexification is the treatment of choice for necrotic immature teeth, particularly during the middle or late stages of root development. MTA apexification has a high success rate; however, failures due to cervical or root fractures occasionally occur. The risk of fracture is higher in immature teeth with thin root dentin, particularly those with external root resorption. Furthermore, the loading force from any parafunctional habit also increases fracture risk. Therefore, intra‐radicular reinforcement may be necessary after MTA apexification. In vitro, intraradicular restoration with a resin composite/core build‐up material or a prefabricated fiber post demonstrated better root reinforcement than root canal obturation materials (i.e., gutta‐percha and sealer). However, the root‐reinforcement effect of MTA orthograde filling in the entire root canal remains unclear. In vivo, the survival of fractured teeth with intraradicular restorations (resin composite/core build‐up material or prefabricated fiber posts) is extremely high. Moreover, the survival of teeth with gutta‐percha/sealer obturation or MTA orthograde filling and restoration with resin composite extending into the cervical third of the root canal approximately 1–2 mm below the cemento‐enamel junction is acceptably high. Based on this evidence, the remaining tooth/root structure and loading force should be carefully examined when considering intra‐radicular reinforcement of immature anterior teeth treated with MTA apexification.
Visual and genetic stock identification of a test fishery to forecast Columbia River spring Chinook salmon stocks 2 weeks into the future
Authors: Hess Jon E. , Deacy Bethany M. , Rub Michelle W. , Van Doornik Donald M. , Whiteaker John M. , Fryer Jeffrey K. , Narum Shawn R.
Published: March 2024

Modern fisheries management strives to balance opposing goals of protection for weak stocks and opportunity for harvesting healthy stocks. Test fisheries can aid management of anadromous fishes if they can forecast the strength and timing of an annual run with adequate time to allow fisheries planning. Integration of genetic stock identification (GSI) can further maximize utility of test fisheries by resolving run forecasts into weak‐ and healthy‐stock subcomponents. Using 5 years (2017–2022) of test fishery data, our study evaluated accuracy, resolution, and lead time of predictions for stock‐specific run timing and abundance of Columbia River spring Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). We determined if this test fishery (1) could use visual stock identification (VSI) to forecast at the coarse stock resolution (i.e., classification of “lower” vs. “upriver” stocks) upon which current management is based and (2) could be enhanced with GSI to forecast at higher stock resolution. VSI accurately identified coarse stocks (83.3% GSI concordance), and estimated a proxy for abundance (catch per unit effort, CPUE) of the upriver stock in the test fishery that was correlated (R2 = 0.90) with spring Chinook salmon abundance at Bonneville dam (Rkm 235). Salmon travel rates (~8.6 Rkm/day) provided predictions with 2‐week lead time prior to dam passage. Importantly, GSI resolved this predictive ability as finely as the hatchery broodstock level. Lower river stock CPUE in the test fishery was correlated with abundance at Willamette Falls (Rkm 196, R2 = 0.62), but could not be as finely resolved as achieved for upriver stocks. We described steps to combine VSI and GSI to provide timely in‐season information and with prediction accuracy of ~12.4 mean absolute percentage error and high stock resolution to help plan Columbia River mainstem fisheries.
Utilizing systems genetics to enhance understanding into molecular targets of skin cancer
Authors: Kim Minjae J. , Kulkarni Vishnutheertha , Goode Micah A. , Hernandez Jacob , Graham Sean , Sivesind Torunn E. , Manchadi Mary‐Louise
Published: March 2024

Despite progress made with immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies, skin cancer remains a significant public health concern in the United States. The intricacies of the disease, encompassing genetics, immune responses, and external factors, call for a comprehensive approach. Techniques in systems genetics, including transcriptional correlation analysis, functional pathway enrichment analysis, and protein–protein interaction network analysis, prove valuable in deciphering intricate molecular mechanisms and identifying potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for skin cancer. Recent studies demonstrate the efficacy of these techniques in uncovering molecular processes and pinpointing diagnostic markers for various skin cancer types, highlighting the potential of systems genetics in advancing innovative therapies. While certain limitations exist, such as generalizability and contextualization of external factors, the ongoing progress in AI technologies provides hope in overcoming these challenges. By providing protocols and a practical example involving Braf, we aim to inspire early‐career experimental dermatologists to adopt these tools and seamlessly integrate these techniques into their skin cancer research, positioning them at the forefront of innovative approaches in combating this devastating disease.
Factor structure, internal consistency, and construct validity of the Caregiver strain questionnaire in Latinx families
Authors: Domenech Rodríguez Melanie M. , Vázquez Alejandro L. , Galvan Thania , Gudiño Omar G.
Published: March 2024

Caregiver strain or stress directly related to caring for a youth with emotional and/or behavioral problems may be an important and understudied cultural factor associated with mental health disparities among Latinx families. Caregiver strain is a highly relevant construct for research questions focused on the identification of youth's mental health needs, family‐level impacts of youth mental health problems, and utilization of youth mental health services. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of research on measures of caregiver strain and the psychometric properties of existing measures in Latinx samples. This study examined the structural and construct validity of the English version of the Caregiver Strain Questionnaire (CGSQ) with a sample of United States‐based Latinx caregivers of youths ages 6–18 (N = 598). Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the original three‐factor model of caregiver strain was evidenced in this sample. Internal consistency analyses and a poor factor loading led to the elimination of one item. The factor structure held after item removal. Significant associations between each dimension of caregiver strain with youth internalizing/externalizing symptom severity and utilization of youth mental health services provided evidence of construct validity (i.e., psychological counseling, telepsychology, parenting classes). Results provide important evidence of the psychometric properties of the English CGSQ in a Latinx sample and support its use in future research aimed at unpacking mental health disparities among Latinx youth and families. Researchers should translate and validate the CGSQ in Spanish to increase the utility of this measure for research with Latinx families.
Preserved particulate organic carbon is likely derived from the subsurface sulfidic photic zone of the Proterozoic Ocean: evidence from a modern, oxygen‐deficient lake
Authors: Cohen Ashley B. , Christensen Lisa N. , Weber Felix , Yagudaeva Milana , Lo Evan , Henkes Gregory A. , McCormick Michael L. , Taylor Gordon T.
Published: March 2024

Biological processes in the Proterozoic Ocean are often inferred from modern oxygen‐deficient environments (MODEs) or from stable isotopes in preserved sediment. To date, few MODE studies have simultaneously quantified carbon fixation genes and attendant stable isotopic signatures. Consequently, how carbon isotope patterns reflect these pathways has not been thoroughly vetted. Addressing this, we profiled planktonic productivity and quantified carbon fixation pathway genes and associated organic carbon isotope values (δ13CPOC) of size‐fractionated (0.2–2.7 and >2.7 μm) particulate matter from meromictic Fayetteville Green Lake, NY, USA. The high‐O2 Calvin‐Benson‐Bassham (CBB) gene (cbbL) was most abundant in the <2.7 μm size fraction in shallow oxic and deep hypoxic waters, corresponding with cyanobacterial and eukaryote algal populations. The low‐O2 CBB gene (cbbM) was most abundant near the lower oxycline boundary in the larger size fraction, coincident with purple sulfur bacteria populations. The reverse citric acid cycle gene (aclB) was equally abundant in both size fractions in the deepest photic zone, coinciding with green sulfur bacteria populations. Methane coenzyme reductase A (mcrA), of anaerobic methane cyclers, was most abundant at the lower oxycline boundary in both size fractions, coinciding with Methanoregula populations. δ13CPOC values overlapped with the high‐O2 CBB fixation range except for two negative excursions near the lower oxycline boundary, likely reflecting assimilation of isotopically‐depleted groundwater‐derived carbon by autotrophs and sulfate‐reducers. Throughout aphotic waters, δ13CPOC values of the large size fraction became 13C‐enriched, likely reflecting abundant purple sulfur bacterial aggregates. Eukaryote algae‐ or cyanobacteria‐like isotopic signatures corresponded with increases in cbbL, cbbM, and aclB, and enrichment of exopolymer‐rich prokaryotic photoautotrophs aggregates. Results suggest that δ13CPOC values of preserved sediments from areas of the Proterozoic Ocean with sulfidic photic zones may reflect a mixture of alternate carbon‐fixing populations exported from the deep photic zone, challenging the paradigm that sedimentary stable carbon isotope values predominantly reflect oxygenic photosynthesis from surface waters.
Natural history and clinical features of hepatitis C virus infection during childhood: A nationwide, observational survey in Japan
Authors: Nakano Satoshi , Suzuki Mitsuyoshi , Hatori Reiko , Mizuochi Tatsuki , Etani Yuri , Tajiri Hitoshi
Published: March 2024

Aim

Few data on spontaneous clearance rates of cases of mother‐to‐child transmission of hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection are available in Japan. Furthermore, the treatment courses of interferon‐based and direct‐acting antiviral agent (DAA) therapies for children are also unclear. Our aim was thus to clarify the long‐term natural progression of HCV infection and the treatment outcomes of children in Japan.

Methods

We conducted a combined multicenter, observational survey involving 65 pediatric institutions in Japan. Pediatric HCV infection cases with patients born between 1973 and 2021 were collected over the 11‐year period from 2012 to 2022. A total of 563 patients were enrolled, with 190 excluded for having insufficient laboratory data or treatment information, resulting in 373 eligible cases.

Results

Of 328 cases of mother‐to‐child infection, 34 (10.4%) had spontaneous clearance, with a median time to spontaneous clearance of 3.1 years (range 0.9–7.2 years). Of the total 373 eligible cases, 190 received antiviral therapy (interferon‐based therapy, 158; DAA therapy, 32). Sustained virologic response rates after first‐line treatment were 75.3% (119/158) and 100% (32/32) for interferon‐based therapy and DAA therapy, respectively, with the DAA group showing a shorter time from therapy initiation to viral negativity (2.7 vs. 1.0 months; p = 0.0031).

Conclusions

Approximately 10% of Japanese children infected by mother‐to‐child transmission achieve spontaneous resolution of HCV infection. Our findings indicate that DAA therapy is safe and highly effective in Japanese children, achieving higher sustained virologic response rates and shorter time to clearance of the virus compared with interferon‐based therapy.
Contrasting patterns of habitat use in a threatened carabid (Carabus intricatus) and a sympatric congener in ancient temperate rainforest
Authors: Pett Brogan L. , Raymond Ben , Hackman Jo R. , Hotchkiss Alastair , Knott Richard , Royle Nick J.
Published: March 2024

There is increasing concern into the decline of insect populations, with corresponding calls for conservation action aimed towards threatened species in particular. However, there is a distinct paucity of knowledge surrounding habitat requirements, microhabitat selection and conservation actions that may be undertaken for the vast majority of invertebrate species.

Carabus intricatus(Coleoptera: Carabidae) Linnaeus, 1761 is a threatened ancient woodland specialist in the United Kingdom with a highly restricted distribution and is listed as a section 41 species of principal importance in England. Despite this, no empirical systematic evidence exists for even basic habitat requirements.

Here, we used a patch‐occupancy modelling framework to determine occupancy and detection parameters forC.intricatusand a sympatric generalist species,C.problematicus, which is a potential competitor.

Our models showed that decayed deadwood availability and leaf litter covering (an indicator of the availability of mature broadleaved trees) leads to higher occupancy ofC.intricatus, whereas decayed dead wood availability and slug abundance are primary determinants of overall abundance. Additionally, detection models showed that higher humidity substantially increased activity ofC.intricatus.

ForC.problematicus, ground moss coverage and overall deadwood volume most strongly influenced occupancy and abundance, whereas there were no humidity related influences on activity.

The results support our general predictions about the specialist–generalist nature of the two species in the United Kingdom and indicate that key characteristics of old‐growth temperate rain forests, particularly the availability of deadwood and high humidity, are central to the conservation of these charismatic carabids.
Virtual reality: A review and a new framework for integrated adoption
Authors: Fares Omar H. , Aversa Joseph , Lee Seung Hwan , Jacobson Jenna
Published: March 2024

Scholarly research on virtual reality (VR) is characterized by a dynamic tension between VR's potential and the challenges impeding its adoption. Grounded in a mixed‐methods systematic review, this research examines the drivers influencing consumer VR adoption by rigorously combining qualitative and quantitative analyses of 158 scholarly articles ranging from 1996 to 2023. Based on an extensive analysis of VR adoption literature, we introduce the Virtual Reality Integrated Adoption Framework (VRIAF), which is the first mixed‐methods systematic review focusing exclusively on VR adoption. This empirically substantiated model integrates key determinants of VR adoption such as consumer attitudes, perceived enjoyment, ease of use, social influences, and previous user experiences. The research identifies four pivotal themes through qualitative exploration, further elucidated by quantitative meta‐analyses and weight analyses. These themes encompass the user experience in VR environments, the role of VR in construction and design, the immersive attributes of VR technologies, and the ongoing technological advancements influencing adoption patterns. This research contributes significantly to the theoretical understanding of VR adoption and provides practical insights for VR professionals. By delineating future research directions, the study bridges the gap between theoretical exploration and practical application, offering a valuable resource for both scholars and practitioners in the field of VR.
Association of hematological ratios with psoriasis: a nationwide retrospective cohort study
Authors: Weissmann Sarah , Babyev Amit S. , Gordon Michal , Golan‐Tripto Inbal , Horev Amir
Published: March 2024

Background

Psoriasis is a common skin disorder linked to systemic inflammation and immune dysregulation. It is believed to involve activated T cells and neutrophils. Recent research has highlighted the potential role of hematological ratios, such as neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), eosinophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (ELR), eosinophil‐to‐neutrophil ratio (ENR), and eosinophil‐to‐monocyte ratio (EMR), as markers for inflammatory skin diseases, including psoriasis.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate hematological ratios between children and adults, patients and controls, and patients with moderate‐to‐severe and mild psoriasis.

Materials and Methods

This national retrospective cohort study included over 16,000 psoriasis patients in Israel. Patients with comorbidities influencing blood counts were excluded. Ratios were calculated from blood counts taken within 30 days of diagnosis. Multivariable logistic regression, including age, gender, ethnicity, smoking status, and socioeconomic status, was performed.

Results

Findings revealed age‐specific variations in blood counts, hematological ratios, and differences between mild and moderate–severe patients and patients versus controls. Moderate–severe psoriasis patients had elevated neutrophil and eosinophil counts (4.57 vs. 4.25, P < 0.001, and 0.24 vs. 0.22, P = 0.047, respectively), as well as increased NLR (2.46 vs. 2.29, P < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis confirmed the significance of neutrophil and platelet counts as well as NLR and PLR in predicting psoriasis severity.

Limitations

This was a retrospective study without subjective data on disease severity.

Conclusion

This study highlights hematologic ratios' diagnostic and prognostic potential in psoriasis.
Metabolic adaptations determine whether natural killer cells fail or thrive within the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Moinuddin Adnan , Poznanski Sophie M. , Portillo Ana L. , Monteiro Jonathan K. , Ashkar Ali A.
Published: March 2024

Natural Killer (NK) cells are a top contender in the development of adoptive cell therapies for cancer due to their diverse antitumor functions and ability to restrict their activation against nonmalignant cells. Despite their success in hematologic malignancies, NK cell‐based therapies have been limited in the context of solid tumors. Tumor cells undergo various metabolic adaptations to sustain the immense energy demands that are needed to support their rapid and uncontrolled proliferation. As a result, the tumor microenvironment (TME) is depleted of nutrients needed to fuel immune cell activity and contains several immunosuppressive metabolites that hinder NK cell antitumor functions. Further, we now know that NK cell metabolic status is a main determining factor of their effector functions. Hence, the ability of NK cells to withstand and adapt to these metabolically hostile conditions is imperative for effective and sustained antitumor activity in the TME. With this in mind, we review the consequences of metabolic hostility in the TME on NK cell metabolism and function. We also discuss tumor‐like metabolic programs in NK cell induced by STAT3‐mediated expansion that adapt NK cells to thrive in the TME. Finally, we examine how other approaches can be applied to enhance NK cell metabolism in tumors.
Recovery‐oriented practice in a hospital mental health service
Authors: Lorien Leonie M. , Arthur Michael , Keiler Katherine , Lowry Joanne , Ryan Kathleen
Published: March 2024

As part of mental health reform in Australia, new policies were introduced to support recovery‐oriented practice; however, little has changed in hospital settings focused on managing risk and remediating acute symptoms. Previous studies have indicated that patients' experiences of personal recovery, during a hospital admission, may not mirror that of people living in the community, with patients being more likely to experience disconnection, hopelessness and disempowerment. Using a Participatory Health Research approach, eight mental health professionals, a patient advocate and an external researcher formed a research partnership to answer the question: How can staff enhance recovery‐oriented practice in a hospital‐based mental health service? The COREQ checklist was used for reporting the methods, analysis and findings. The methods comprised patient focus groups (n = 16 participants), interviews with managers (n = 7) and an online survey for staff (n = 17). Researchers analysed the feedback from the consultations using inductive thematic analysis, identifying two themes: relational recovery and recovery interventions. The findings indicate that relational recovery is key to recovery during a hospital admission and interventions that increase connectedness or reduce the impact of symptoms enhance personal recovery.
An audit and analysis of electro convulsive therapy patient information sheets used in local health districts in New South Wales Australia
Authors: Wand Timothy , Isobel Sophie , Kemp Holly
Published: March 2024

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a widely used psychiatric treatment; however, it remains contentious. It is therefore important that people are provided with accurate and balanced information before consenting to ECT. The aim of this study was to audit and analyse the content and language of ECT information sheets used in local health districts (LHDs) across the state of New South Wales Australia. Descriptive content analysis and evaluative linguistic analysis were used to investigate the information sheets, with findings then considered from a mad studies perspective. Thirteen ECT information sheets were obtained and reviewed, with the audit finding they lacked accuracy and balance. Linguistic tools were used to exaggerate positive outcomes and minimise negative effects. Despite commonalities, the structure and content of the sheets varied considerably. Findings indicate a need for co‐design and co‐production approaches to developing ECT information sheets. This should occur in genuine partnership with lived experience representatives based on current evidence, using neutral language, and with attention to their intent as part of processes of informed consent and decision making.