bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using machine learning for mortality prediction and risk stratification in atezolizumab‐treated cancer patients: Integrative analysis of eight clinical trials
Authors: Wu Yougen , Zhu Wenyu , Wang Jing , Liu Lvwen , Zhang Wei , Wang Yang , Shi Jindong , Xia Ju , Gu Yuting , Qian Qingqing , Hong Yang
Published: July 2022

Background

Few models exist to predict mortality in cancer patients receiving immunotherapy. Our aim was to build a machine learning‐based risk stratification model for predicting mortality in atezolizumab‐treated cancer patients.

Methods

Data from 2538 patients in eight atezolizumab‐treated cancer clinical trials across three cancer types (non‐small‐cell lung cancer, bladder transitional cell carcinoma, and renal cell carcinoma) were included. The whole cohort was randomly split into development and validation cohorts in a 7:3 ratio. Machine‐learning algorithms (extreme gradient boosting, random forest, logistic regression with lasso regularization, support vector machine, and K‐nearest neighbor) were applied to develop prediction models. Model performance was mainly assessed by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) value, calibration plot, and decision curve analysis. The probability of death risk was then stratified.

Results

One thousand and three hundred and seventy‐nine (54.33%) patients died. The random forest (RF) model was overall the best in terms of predictive performance, with the AUC of 0.844 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.826–0.862) in the development cohort and 0.786 (95% CI: 0.754–0.818) in the validation cohort for predicting mortality. Twelve baseline variables contributing to mortality prediction in the RF model were C‐reactive protein, PD‐L1 level, cancer type, prior liver metastasis, derived neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, alkaline phosphatase, albumin, hemoglobin, white blood cell count, number of metastatic sites, pulse rate, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status. A total of 1782 (70.2%) patients were separated into the high‐risk and 756 (29.8%) low‐risk groups. Patients in the high‐risk group were significantly more likely to die, experience disease progression, discontinue study, and discontinue treatment than patients in the low‐risk group (all p values < 0.001). Risk groups were not associated with immune‐related adverse events and grades 3–5 treatment‐related adverse events (all p values > 0.05).

Conclusion

RF model has good performance in mortality prediction and risk stratification for cancer patients receiving atezolizumab monotherapy.
Hematological toxicities in PARP inhibitors: A real‐world study using FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS) database
Authors: Shu Yamin , Ding Yufeng , He Xucheng , Liu Yanxin , Wu Pan , Zhang Qilin
Published: July 2022

Objective

Poly ADP‐ribose polymerase inhibitors (PARPis) have significantly improved clinical effects in gynecological oncology. However, PARPis could also induce severe organ system toxicities, including the hematological system. Our study aimed to extensively characterize the hematological toxicities of PARPis based on the real‐world data.

Methods

Disproportionality analysis was used to evaluate the association between PARPis and hematotoxicity adverse events. Data were extracted from the US FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database between January 2015 and September 2021. The characteristics of PARPi‐associated hematological toxicities, and the onset time and fatality proportion were further analyzed.

Results

Out of 24,045 adverse events reports, 4088 hematotoxicity reports (17.00%) were analyzed, with a median age of 64.95 (interquartile range [IQR] 51–71) years. All PARPis were detected with positive safety signals of hematological toxicities in four detection methods. Unexpected significant adverse events such as lymphadenopathy, lymphoedema, and metastases to lymph nodes might also occur. The median time‐to‐onset was 28 (IQR 10–101) days and the fatality proportion of hematological toxicities with PARPis was 8.76%, with a statistical difference in different PARPis.

Conclusion

Hematological toxicities caused by PARPis preferred to occur early and might result in serious outcomes. Early identification and response to the PARPi‐related hematological toxicities were important and further basic research were needed to confirm the mechanism of results in this study.
Impact of U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lung cancer screening update on drivers of disparities in screening eligibility
Authors: Maki Kristin G. , Talluri Rajesh , Toumazis Iakovos , Shete Sanjay , Volk Robert J.
Published: July 2022

Background

In 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) updated its recommendation to expand lung cancer screening (LCS) eligibility and mitigate disparities. Although this increased the number of non‐White individuals who are eligible for LCS, the update's impact on drivers of disparities is less clear. This analysis focuses on racial disparities among Black individuals because members of this group disproportionately share late‐stage lung cancer diagnoses, despite typically having a lower intensity smoking history compared to non‐Hispanic White individuals.

Methods

We used data from the National Health Interview Survey to examine the impact of the 2021 eligibility criteria on racial disparities by factors such as education, poverty, employment history, and insurance status. We also examined preventive care use and reasons for delaying medical care.

Results

When comparing Black individuals and non‐Hispanic White individuals, our analyses show significant differences in who would be eligible for LCS: Those who do not have a high school diploma (28.7% vs. 17.0%, p = 0.002), are in poverty (26.2% vs. 14.9%, p < 0.001), and have not worked in the past 12 months (66.5% vs. 53.9%, p = 0.009). Further, our analyses also show that more Black individuals delayed medical care due to not having transportation (11.1% vs. 3.6%, p < 0.001) compared to non‐Hispanic White individuals.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that despite increasing the number of Black individuals who are eligible for LCS, the 2021 USPSTF recommendation highlights ongoing socioeconomic disparities that need to be addressed to ensure equitable access.
An effective characterization procedure for petroleum reservoir fluids using molecular type methods and cubic equations of state
Authors: Hosseinifar Pouya , Shahverdi Hamidreza
Published: July 2022

Two eminent molecular type composition methods (paraffins, naphthenes, and aromatics [PNA] and saturates, aromatics, and polynuclear aromatics [SAP]) are employed to construct new characterization procedures for predicting the phase behaviour of petroleum fluids using a modified Peng–Robinson equation of state. The PNA and SAP methods divide a petroleum fraction into (PNA) and (SAP) homologous groups, respectively. Two generalized models are developed to predict the physical properties () and equation of state (EOS) parameters () for both PNA and SAP sub‐fractions. Each generalized model covers 18 different correlations in a single mathematical form that enables the model to return 18 outputs for PNA and SAP sub‐fraction parameters. A new lumping method is also developed to convert triple PNA or SAP pseudo‐components into single characterized fractions. Accordingly, seven different characterization procedures are introduced and compared with one another. The first two procedures are completely constructed based on the proposed models, and the other procedures encompass the models already developed. The results obtained from the simulation of the differential liberation test for 12 diverse reservoir fluids and bubble pressure prediction for 40 oil samples revealed that the first two methods (1 and 2) could enhance the abilities of the traditional characterization procedures for reservoir fluid modelling. The mean value of average absolute relative deviations (AARDs) over a total of 52 oil samples is about 6.5% for the proposed methods and is about 13.2% for the best previously existing methods. Moreover, an efficient workflow is provided for the parameter tuning process, which is notably capable of reducing the level of prediction errors using only three adjustable parameters.
Highly Stretchable and Elastic Polymer Electrolytes with High Ionic Conductivity and Li‐Ion Transference Number for High‐Rate Lithium Batteries
Authors: Qu Xinxin , Guo Yue , Liu Xiaokong
Published: July 2022

Comprehensive Summary

The ever‐growing demand for wearable electronics drives the development of stretchable lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) with fast charging capability, in which stretchable polymer electrolytes (PEs) with high ionic conductivity and lithium‐ion transference numbers () are highly desirable. Herein, we report a highly stretchable and elastic PE with high ionic conductivity and , which is applicable in high‐rate and stretchable LIBs. The PE was fabricated by incorporating polyethylene glycol (PEG) and lithium salts into polyurethane networks, wherein α‐cyclodextrin (α‐CD) acts as the cross‐linker. The PEG chains are cross‐linked by covalent and noncovalent bonds, and some PEG chains enter into the cavity of α‐CD to form PEG/α‐CD inclusions. These structural features effectively suppress crystallization of the PEG chains, hinder movement of the counterions of Li+, and endow PE with satisfactory mechanical robustness. The PE with a tensile strength (0.61 MPa) exhibits a large strain at break (840%) and excellent elasticity, possessing a high ionic conductivity (5.0 × 10–4 S·cm–1) and a high (0.52). The Li‖LiFePO4 battery assembled with the PE delivers a high capacity of 75 mAh·g–1 even at the high rate of 16 C. The battery can be stably cycled for 300 and 200 cycles at 1 C and 4 C, respectively.
AAV gene therapy vectors in the TMJ
Authors: Brouxhon Sabine M. , O'Banion Michael Kerry , Kyrkanides Stephanos
Published: July 2022

Objectives

The goal of this project was to evaluate the use of two adeno‐associated viral vector serotypes, adeno‐associated viral vectors (AAV)‐2 and AAV‐6, approved for and used for gene therapy in humans, for the delivery of therapeutic genes to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the attendant sensory nerves.

Methods

Young adult wild‐type C57BL/6 mice were intra‐articularly inoculated with AAV‐2 and AAV‐6 encoding the reporter gene gfp, the expression of which was assessed in the TMJ as well as along nerves innervating the TMJ.

Results

AAV‐2 and AAV‐6 serotypes were characterized by varying levels of tissue tropism demonstrating different efficacy of infection for articular chondrocytes, meniscal fibroblasts, and trigeminal neurons. Specifically, AAV‐2 infected both neurons and articular chondrocytes/meniscal fibroblasts, whereas AAV‐6 showed selectivity primarily for neurons.

Conclusions

The results of this study are clinically significant in the successful application of gene therapy vectors for TMJ disorders, as this new knowledge will allow for appropriate targeting of specific therapeutic genes to selective tissues (neurons vs. chondrocytes/fibroblasts) as needed by using specific viral vector serotypes.
Marginal and internal fit and fracture resistance of three‐unit provisional restorations fabricated by additive, subtractive, and conventional methods
Authors: Falahchai Mehran , Rahimabadi Samiye , Khabazkar Ghazaleh , Babaee Hemmati Yasamin , Neshandar Asli Hamid
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To compare the marginal and internal fit and fracture resistance of three‐unit provisional fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) fabricated by additive, subtractive, and conventional methods.

Material and Methods

Eighty 3‐unit FDPs were fabricated on metal dies of the maxillary right second premolar and second molar by four different techniques (n = 20): The direct method by using autopolymerizing polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), indirect method by the compression molding technique, subtractive manufacturing by using PMMA blocks, and additive manufacturing by using digital light processing technology. The adaptation of restorations at the marginal, axial, cuspal, and fossa areas was assessed by using the silicone replica technique. After thermocycling and cyclic loading, the fracture resistance was measured by a universal testing machine. Data were analyzed by a two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA), ANOVA, and Tukey test (α = .05).

Results

The mean gap measured in the additive group was lower than that in all other groups at all points (p < .05); however, the difference in the marginal gap with the subtractive group was not significant (p = .995). The mean marginal and axial gaps in the subtractive group were significantly lower than the corresponding values in both conventional groups (p < .05). A significant difference existed between all groups regarding the mean cuspal and fossa gaps (p < .05). The mean fracture resistance of the additive group was significantly higher than that of indirect (p = .018) and direct (p < .001) groups, and the fracture resistance of the subtractive group was significantly higher than that of the direct group (p = .020).

Conclusion

The digitally fabricated provisional FDPs showed superior marginal and internal fit and higher fracture resistance than the conventionally fabricated FDPs. Between the digital methods, the additive technique yielded superior internal fit.
Development and implementation of an electronic Clinical Dementia Rating and Financial Capacity Instrument‐Short Form
Authors: Howell Taylor , Gummadi Shilpa , Bui Chau , Santhakumar Jessica , Knight Kristen , Roberson Erik D. , Marson Daniel , Chambless Carol , Gersteneker Adam , Martin Roy , Kennedy Richard , Zhang Yue , Morris John C. , Moulder Krista L. , Mayo Connie , Carroll Maria , Li Yan , Petersen Ronald C. , Stricker Nikki H. , Nosheny Rachel L. , Mackin Scott , Weiner Michael W.
Published: July 2022

Introduction

To address the need for remote assessments of cognitive decline and dementia, we developed and administered electronic versions of the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR®) and the Financial Capacity Instrument‐Short Form (FCI‐SF) (F‐CAP®), called the eCDR and eFCI, respectively.

Methods

The CDR and FCI‐SF were adapted for remote, unsupervised, online use based on item response analysis of the standard instruments. Participants completed the eCDR and eFCI first in clinic, and then at home within 2 weeks.

Results

Of the 243 enrolled participants, 179 (73%) cognitively unimpaired (CU), 50 (21%) with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia, and 14 (6%) with an unknown diagnosis, 84% and 85% of them successfully completed the eCDR and eFCI, respectively, at home.

Discussion

These results show initial feasibility in developing and administering online instruments to remotely assess and monitor cognitive decline along the CU to MCI/very mild dementia continuum. Validation is an important next step.
Alzheimer's disease diagnosis and management: Perspectives from around the world
Authors: Kerwin Diana , Abdelnour Carla , Caramelli Paulo , Ogunniyi Adesola , Shi Jiong , Zetterberg Henrik , Traber Martin
Published: July 2022

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other dementias are a global challenge. Early diagnosis is important to manage the disease. However, there are barriers to diagnosis that differ by region. Researchers from Brazil, China, Nigeria, Spain, and Sweden have identified key barriers to AD diagnosis in their countries. In Brazil, socioeconomic inequalities and poor recognition of dementia by physicians can prevent diagnosis. In China, a very large population and lack of physician training in dementia make diagnosis problematic. In Nigeria, socioeconomic inequalities and cultural stigma can stand in the way of diagnosis. In Spain, patient hesitancy and an overloaded health‐care system are barriers to diagnosis. In Sweden, inconsistent use of biomarkers is a prominent barrier to diagnosis of AD. To support diagnosis, more focus is needed on education of patients and physicians, increased use of support services, and improved access to biomarkers to accurately diagnose AD.
Fixed or random? On the reliability of mixed‐effects models for a small number of levels in grouping variables
Authors: Oberpriller Johannes , de Souza Leite Melina , Pichler Maximilian
Published: July 2022

Biological data are often intrinsically hierarchical (e.g., species from different genera, plants within different mountain regions), which made mixed‐effects models a common analysis tool in ecology and evolution because they can account for the non‐independence. Many questions around their practical applications are solved but one is still debated: Should we treat a grouping variable with a low number of levels as a random or fixed effect? In such situations, the variance estimate of the random effect can be imprecise, but it is unknown if this affects statistical power and type I error rates of the fixed effects of interest. Here, we analyzed the consequences of treating a grouping variable with 2–8 levels as fixed or random effect in correctly specified and alternative models (under‐ or overparametrized models). We calculated type I error rates and statistical power for all‐model specifications and quantified the influences of study design on these quantities. We found no influence of model choice on type I error rate and power on the population‐level effect (slope) for random intercept‐only models. However, with varying intercepts and slopes in the data‐generating process, using a random slope and intercept model, and switching to a fixed‐effects model, in case of a singular fit, avoids overconfidence in the results. Additionally, the number and difference between levels strongly influences power and type I error. We conclude that inferring the correct random‐effect structure is of great importance to obtain correct type I error rates. We encourage to start with a mixed‐effects model independent of the number of levels in the grouping variable and switch to a fixed‐effects model only in case of a singular fit. With these recommendations, we allow for more informative choices about study design and data analysis and make ecological inference with mixed‐effects models more robust for small number of levels.
Genetic diversity and population dynamic of Ziziphus jujuba var. spinosa (Bunge) Hu ex H. F. Chow in Central China
Authors: Du Shuhui , Hu Xiaoyan , Yang Xiuyun , Yu Wendong , Wang Zhaoshan
Published: July 2022

Phylogeographic research concerning Central China has been rarely conducted. Population genetic and phylogeography of Ziziphus jujuba var. spinosa (also called sour jujube) were investigated to improve our understanding of plant phylogeographic patterns in Central China. Single‐copy nuclear gene markers and complete chloroplast genome data were applied to 328 individuals collected from 21 natural populations of sour jujube in China. Nucleotide variation of sour jujube was relatively high (π = 0.00720, θw = 0.00925), which resulted from the mating system and complex population dynamics. Analysis of molecular variation analysis revealed that most of the total variation was attributed to variation within populations, and a high level of genetic differentiation among populations was detected (Fst = 0.197). Relatively low long‐distance dispersal capability and vitality of pollen contributed to high genetic differentiation among populations. Differences in the environmental conditions and long distance among populations further restricted gene flow. Structure clustering analysis uncovered intraspecific divergence between central and marginal populations. Migrate analysis found a high level of gene flow between these two intraspecific groups. Bayesian skyline plot detected population expansion of these two intraspecific groups. Network and phylogeny analysis of chloroplast haplotypes also found intraspecific divergence, and the divergence time was estimated to occur at about 55.86 Ma. Haplotype native to the Loess Plateau was more ancient, and multiple glacial refugia of sour jujube were found to locate at the Loess Plateau, areas adjacent to the Qinling Mountains and Tianmu Mountains. Species distribution model analysis found a typical contraction‐expansion model corresponding to the Quaternary climatic oscillations. In the future, the distribution of sour jujube may shift to high‐latitude areas. This study provides new insights for phylogeographic research of temperate plant species distributed in Central China and sets a solid foundation for the application of the scientific management strategy of Z. jujuba var. spinosa.
Age structure of amphibian populations with endemic chytridiomycosis, across climatic regions with markedly different infection risk
Authors: Turner Anna , Heard Geoffrey , Hall Andrew , Wassens Skye
Published: July 2022

Threatening processes, such as disease, can drive major changes in population demographics of the host. Chytridiomycosis, caused by the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), has led to the decline of at least 500 amphibian species across the globe and has been shown to truncate host age structure by lowering adult survival rates. This results in heavy reliance on annual recruitment and the inability to recover in the event of periodic recruitment failure. We used skeletochronology to determine the age structure, growth, and survival rates of populations of an endangered amphibian, Litoria raniformis, with endemic chytridiomycosis, across two climatically disparate regions in south‐eastern Australia: semi‐arid and temperate. Contrary to predictions, populations in the semi‐arid region (in which chytrid prevalence is substantially lower due to high temperatures) displayed a more truncated age structure than populations in the temperate study regions. Maximum recorded age was only two years in the semi‐arid region compared with up to four years in the temperate region. Wetland hydroperiod and average seasonal air temperature were correlated with age, and males had a slightly higher survival rate than females (0.31 for males and 0.27 for females). Despite the previously documented differences in chytrid prevalence between the two climatic regions, water availability and wetland hydroperiods appear the over‐riding determinants of the age structure and survival rates of L. raniformis. Targeted management which ensures water availability and improves survival of 1‐year‐old frogs into their second and third breeding season would reduce the impact of stochastic events on L. raniformis, and this may be true for numerous frog species susceptible to chytridiomycosis.
Caenorhabditisnematodes colonize ephemeral resource patches in neotropical forests
Authors: Sloat Solomon A. , Noble Luke M. , Paaby Annalise B. , Bernstein Max , Chang Audrey , Kaur Taniya , Yuen John , Tintori Sophia C. , Jackson Jacqueline L. , Martel Arielle , Salome Correa Jose A. , Stevens Lewis , Kiontke Karin , Blaxter Mark , Rockman Matthew V.
Published: July 2022

Factors shaping the distribution and abundance of species include life‐history traits, population structure, and stochastic colonization–extinction dynamics. Field studies of model species groups help reveal the roles of these factors. Species ofCaenorhabditisnematodes are highly divergent at the sequence level but exhibit highly conserved morphology, and many of these species live in sympatry on microbe‐rich patches of rotten material. Here, we use field experiments and large‐scale opportunistic collections to investigate species composition, abundance, and colonization efficiency ofCaenorhabditisspecies in two of the world's best‐studied lowland tropical field sites: Barro Colorado Island in Panamá and La Selva in Sarapiquí, Costa Rica. We observed seven species ofCaenorhabditis, four of them known only from these collections. We formally describe two species and place them within theCaenorhabditisphylogeny. While these localities contain species from many parts of the phylogeny, both localities were dominated by globally distributed androdiecious species. We found thatCaenorhabditisindividuals were able to colonize baits accessible only through phoresy and preferentially colonized baits that were in direct contact with the ground. We estimate the number of colonization events per patch to be low.
Inter‐ and intraspecific variation in mycotoxin tolerance: A study of four Drosophila species
Authors: Kokate Prajakta P. , Smith Morgan , Hall Lucinda , Zhang Kui , Werner Thomas
Published: July 2022

Many mycophagous Drosophila species have adapted to tolerate high concentrations of mycotoxins, an ability not reported in any other eukaryotes. Although an association between mycophagy and mycotoxin tolerance has been established in many Drosophila species, the genetic mechanisms of the tolerance are unknown. This study presents the inter‐ and intraspecific variation in the mycotoxin tolerance trait. We studied the mycotoxin tolerance in four Drosophila species from four separate clades within the immigrans‐tripunctata radiation from two distinct locations. The effect of mycotoxin treatment on 20 isofemale lines per species was studied using seven gross phenotypes: survival to pupation, survival to eclosion, development time to pupation and eclosion, thorax length, fecundity, and longevity. We observed interspecific variation among four species, with D. falleni being the most tolerant, followed by D. recens, D. neotestacea, and D. tripunctata, in that order. The results also revealed geographical variation and intraspecific genetic variation in mycotoxin tolerance. This report provides the foundation for further delineating the genetic mechanisms of the mycotoxin tolerance trait.
The role of context in elucidating drivers of animal movement
Authors: Lubitz Nicolas , Bradley Michael , Sheaves Marcus , Hammerschlag Neil , Daly Ryan , Barnett Adam
Published: July 2022

Despite its consequences for ecological processes and population dynamics, intra‐specific variability is frequently overlooked in animal movement studies. Consequently, the necessary resolution to reveal drivers of individual movement decisions is often lost as animal movement data are aggregated to infer average or population patterns. Thus, an empirical understanding of why a given movement pattern occurs remains patchy for many taxa, especially in marine systems. Nonetheless, movement is often rationalized as being driven by basic life history requirements, such as acquiring energy (feeding), reproduction, predator‐avoidance, and remaining in suitable environmental conditions. However, these life history requirements are central to every individual within a species and thus do not sufficiently account for the high intra‐specific variability in movement behavior and hence fail to fully explain the occurrence of multiple movement strategies within a species. Animal movement appears highly context dependent as, for example, within the same location, the behavior of both resident and migratory individuals is driven by life history requirements, such as feeding or reproduction, however different movement strategies are utilized to fulfill them. A systematic taxa‐wide approach that, instead of averaging population patterns, incorporates and utilizes intra‐specific variability to enable predictions as to which movement patterns can be expected under a certain context, is needed. Here, we use intra‐specific variability in elasmobranchs as a case study to introduce a stepwise approach for studying animal movement drivers that is based on a context‐dependence framework. We examine relevant literature to illustrate how this context‐focused approach can aid in reliably identifying drivers of a specific movement pattern. Ultimately, incorporating behavioral variability in the study of movement drivers can assist in making predictions about behavioral responses to environmental change, overcoming tagging biases, and establishing more efficient conservation measures.
Effects of spatial distance and woody plant cover on beta diversity point to dispersal limitation as a driver of community assembly during postfire succession in a Mediterranean shrubland
Authors: Torres Iván , Parra Antonio , Moreno José M.
Published: July 2022

Beta diversity, and its components of turnover and nestedness, reflects the processes governing community assembly, such as dispersal limitation or biotic interactions, but it is unclear how they operate at the local scale and how their role changes along postfire succession. Here, we analyzed the patterns of beta diversity and its components in a herbaceous plant community after fire, and in relation to dispersal ability, in Central Spain. We calculated multiple‐site beta diversity (βSOR) and its components of turnover (βSIM) and nestedness (βSNE) of all herbaceous plants, or grouped by dispersal syndrome (autochory, anemochory, and zoochory), during the first 3 years after wildfire. We evaluated the relationship between pairwise beta diversity (βsor), and its components (βsim, βsne), and spatial distance or differences in woody plant cover, a proxy of biotic interactions. We found high multiple‐site beta diversity dominated by the turnover component. Community dissimilarity increased with spatial distance, driven mostly by the turnover component. Species with less dispersal ability (i.e., autochory) showed a stronger spatial pattern of dissimilarity. Biotic interactions with woody plants contributed less to community dissimilarity, which tended to occur through the nestedness component. These results suggest that dispersal limitation prevails over biotic interactions with woody plants as a driver of local community assembly, even for species with high dispersal ability. These results contribute to our understanding of postfire community assembly and vegetation dynamics.
Resource acquisition and pre‐copulatory sexual selection
Authors: Klug Hope , Langley Chelsea , Reyes Elijah
Published: July 2022

Abstract

Sexual selection influences the evolution of phenotypic traits and contributes to patterns of biodiversity. In many animals, mating involves sequential steps. Often, individuals must secure resources that are essential for mating (nests, territories, food), and then after securing a resource, individuals engage in competition for access to limited opposite sex mates and gametes. A large body of empirical research and some verbal models have illustrated that resource acquisition can influence sexual selection. In general, though, we lack a priori predictions of when and how resource acquisition will influence sexual selection. Here, we use a mathematical framework to explore the link between resource acquisition and sexual selection on an advantageous mate‐acquisition trait across biologically relevant trade‐off scenarios. Our findings provide a set of testable predictions of how resource acquisition can influence sexual selection on mating traits. In general, selection on mate‐acquisition traits is expected to be heavily influenced by: (1) the episode of selection considered, and in particular, whether one considers selection associated with the mating pool only or selection associated with both the mating pool and pre‐mating pool; (2) whether resource‐acquisition and mate‐acquisition traits are positively associated or whether they trade off; and (3) the proportion of males with the resource‐ and mate‐acquisition traits.
The functional structure of plant communities drives soil functioning via changes in soil abiotic properties
Authors: Valencia Enrique , Galland Thomas , Carmona Carlos P. , Goberna Marta , Götzenberger Lars , Lepš Jan , Verdú Miguel , Macek Petr , de Bello Francesco
Published: July 2022

While biodiversity is expected to enhance multiple ecosystem functions (EFs), the different roles of multiple biodiversity dimensions remain difficult to disentangle without carefully designed experiments. We sowed plant communities with independent levels of functional (FD) and phylogenetic diversities (PD), combined with different levels of fertilization, to investigate their direct and indirect roles on multiple EFs, including plant‐related EFs (plant biomass productivity, litter decomposability), soil fertility (organic carbon and nutrient pool variables), soil microbial activity (respiration and nutrient cycling), and an overall multifunctionality. We expected an increase in most EFs in communities with higher values of FD and/or PD via complementarity effects, but also the dominant plant types (using community weighted mean, CWM, independent of FD and PD) via selection effects on several EFs. The results showed strong direct effects of different dimensions of plant functional structure parameters on plant‐related EFs, through either CWM or FD, with weak effects of PD. Fertilization had significant effects on one soil microbial activity and indirect effects on the other variables via changes in soil abiotic properties. Dominant plant types and FD showed only indirect effects on soil microbial activity, through litter decomposition and soil abiotic properties, highlighting the importance of cascading effects. This study shows the relevance of complementary dimensions of biodiversity for assessing both direct and cascading effects on multiple EFs.
Interplay between polycystic ovary syndrome and hypothyroidism on serum testosterone, oxidative stress and StAR gene expression in female rats
Authors: Khodabandeh Sara , Hosseini Abdolkarim , Khazali Homayoun , Azizi Vahid
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Endocrine disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hypothyroidism can cause infertility. There are evidence that they happen jointly in some circumstances. It still remains unknown, how these two illnesses interact and influence the body.

Methods

Accordingly, a five‐group was designed, first is the control group, followed by the PCOS group. Estradiol valerate (EV) induced PCOS, the second group had only PCOS and the third, fourth and fifth groups were given varied dosages of propylthiouracil (PTU) to cause hypothyroidism after induction of PCOS. Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) expression was measured in the ovaries, and serum was obtained to determine testosterone levels, as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD) as an antioxidant and malondialdehyde (MDA) as an oxidant.

Results

Based on radioimmunoassay data, testosterone levels were significantly higher in the PCOS group than the control group, and significantly lower (p ˂ .05) in PTU groups comparing with the PCOS group. According to the quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) data, the same results were obtained for the StAR gene as well. The data also indicated a positive correlation between these two. Although both oxidant and antioxidant level increased in PCOS group compared than control group, after hypothyroidism, oxidant level increased significantly (p ˂ .05), meanwhile antioxidant level decreased significantly (p ˂ .05).

Conclusions

The results of this study illustrate that the presence of both PCOS and hypothyroidism alters the situation more than just PCOS. They also indicate that this situation is associated with imbalanced oxidative/antioxidative status.
Zn Dissolution−Passivation Behavior with ZnO Formation via In Situ Characterizations
Authors: Wang Tanyanyu , Kunimoto Masahiro , Yanagisawa Masahiro , Morita Masayuki , Abe Takeshi , Homma Takayuki
Published: July 2022

In this study, ZnO formation during the dissolution−passivation process of Zn anodes is observed via in situ Raman and optical characterization. The Zn passivation during galvanostatic anodization merely follows the dissolution−precipitation model, whereas that of potentiodynamic polarization exhibits different behaviors in different potential ranges. Initially, the Zn electrode is gradually covered by a ZnO precipitation film and then undergoes solid‐state oxidation at ~255 mV. The starting point of solid‐state oxidation is well indicated by the abrupt current drop and yellow coloration of the electrode surface. During the pseudo passivation, an intense current oscillation is observed. Further, blink‐like color changes between yellow and dark blue are revealed for the first time, implying that the oscillation is caused by the dynamic adsorption and desorption of OH groups. The as‐formed ZnOs then experience a dissolution−reformation evolution, during which the crystallinity of the primary ZnO film is improved but the solid‐state‐formed ZnO layer becomes rich in oxygen vacancies. Eventually, oxide densification is realized, contributing to the Zn passivation. This study provides new insights into the Zn dissolution−passivation behavior, which is critical for the future optimization of Zn batteries.
Ultrasensitive assay of O‐GlcNAc transferase using capillary electrophoresis‐laser induced fluorescence
Authors: Liu Jianing , Li Minmin , Liu Xiaojuan , Huang Jing , Yang Li
Published: July 2022

O‐linked N‐acetylglucosamine (O‐GlcNAc) transferase (OGT) is directly associated with the level of O‐GlcNAc glycosylation of biomolecules and various diseases, and it is expected to be a promising potential new therapeutic target. Here, we develop a robust and sensitive method for OGT assay based on capillary electrophoresis‐laser induced fluorescence (CE‐LIF) method. AF‐488‐modified peptide containing serine active group is designed as substrate for OGT‐catalyzed reaction, and nonradioactive UDP‐GlcNAc is employed as sugar donor to perform O‐GlcNAc glycosylation modification. The enzyme activity of OGT is measured by quantitative determination of glycosylated peptide produced by the reaction. Large volume sample stacking technique for sample injection and a unique fluorescence collection system for LIF detection are adopted to greatly enhance the detection sensitivity, thus a low limit of detection down to 0.23 pM for OGT detection is achieved. The method is successfully applied to detect OGT activity in clinical blood samples with satisfactory accuracy. Our study provides a simple, accurate, and sensitive method with great potential application in clinical diagnosis of O‐GlcNAc‐related diseases.
Microstructure characterization and stochastic modeling of open‐cell foam based on μCT‐image analysis
Authors: Bogunia Lukas , Buchen Stefan , Weinberg Kerstin
Published: July 2022

Foam is a cellular material whose mechanical properties are strongly determined by its complex microstructure. To study the microstructure, at first a foam characterization based on CT image processing is required. Here we present an image segmentation procedure and determine the foam's characteristics using the lattice cell‐based concept of intrinsic volumes. Information like porosity, pore size distribution, and ligament shape are derived. These data are then employed as input for the generation of stochastic foam volume elements with the corresponding morphology. The introduced microstructural characterization and foam generation procedures are validated by an inverse analysis, that is, by a CT image analysis of the stochastic foam volume element. Additionally, an example investigation of industrial polyurethane foam proves the concepts.
Cultural proficiency starts here: Drawing on staff and student perceptions to Indigenise curricula
Authors: McIver Shane , Murphy Berni , Curran Lizzie , Parrish Ange
Published: July 2022

Issue Addressed

This study reports outcomes from initial steps taken to promote cultural proficiency among our next generation, nonclinical health workforce, including addressing any tendencies towards stereotyping, biases and discrimination, when redeveloping and Indigenising curricula.

Methods

This qualitative study involved purposive sampling of undergraduate students enrolled in a final‐year health promotion unit (subject), as well as staff within the Faculty of Health. Thematic analysis was applied to two datasets: (i) outcomes from a staff survey examining insights and reactions to delivering Indigenous content (n = 16) and (ii) a collection of online student posts describing their observations and reflections during delivery of an Indigenous health module (n = 91).

Results

Staff survey data highlighted the need for targeted professional development and support. Findings from student data emphasised the need to embed course content that has the capacity to (i) help students understand health within an equity, social justice and human rights context and (ii) encourage students to self‐identify any conscious and unconscious biases that work against these principles in the workplace.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the usefulness of conducting a preliminary analysis prior to initiating changes to curriculum design and delivery. Strategies were identified to provide and implement renewed initiatives and directions for professional development for staff. Similarly, there was a clear need to effectively train students in cultural awareness, sensitivity and knowledges through specific and targeted resources and support throughout the span of the course.

So What

Lack of knowledge and confidence among staff can negatively impact content and delivery, and ultimately, student learning outcomes. However, this was balanced by an appetite for collaboration and guidance. Findings contribute to current discourses exploring effective approaches to Indigenising discrete unit and course‐wide curricula and provide a useful template for others seeking evidence‐based approaches and ideas when aiming to improve cultural proficiency.
Implementation of visual inspection with acetic acid and Lugol's iodine for cervical cancer screening in rural China
Authors: Hu Shang‐Ying , Zhao Xue‐Lian , Zhao Fang‐Hui , Wei Li‐Hui , Zhou Qi , Niyazi Mayinuer , Liu Ji‐Hong , Wang Chun‐Yan , Li Long‐Yu , Cheng Xiao‐Dong , Duan Xian‐Zhi , Sauvaget Catherine , Qiao You‐Lin , Sankaranarayanan Rengaswamy
Published: July 2022

Objective

To address the value of visual inspection where HPV‐based screening is not yet available, we evaluated the real‐world effectiveness of visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and with Lugol's iodine (VILI) as a primary screening method for cervical cancer in rural China.

Methods

A total of 206 133 women aged 30–59 years received two rounds of VIA/VILI screening for cervical cancer in 2006–2010. Women with positive screening results underwent colposcopy and direct biopsy, and were treated if cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN2+) was diagnosed. Clinical effectiveness of VIA/VILI was evaluated by process and outcome measures.

Results

The VIA/VILI positivity rate, biopsy rate and detection rate of CIN2+ in the second round were significantly lower than in the first round. The 2‐year cumulative detection rate of CIN2+ varied from 0.53% to 0.90% among the four cohorts initiated in 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2009. The first round of screening detected 60%–83% of CIN2, 70%–86% of CIN3, and 88%–100% of cervical cancer. Over 92% of CIN2+ were found at the early stage.

Conclusion

Multiple rounds of visual inspection with continuous training and quality assurance could act as a temporary substitutional screening method for cervical cancer in resource‐restricted settings.
The challenge of reference evapotranspiration between the WaPOR data set and geostatistical methods
Authors: Barideh Rahman , Veysi Shadman , Ebrahimipak Niazali , Davatgar Naser
Published: July 2022

This study aimed evaluating the ability of the FAO's WaPOR Product (FWP) to estimate reference evapotranspiration (RET) based on lysimetric data and RET equations and compare its accuracy with geostatistical methods in the Lake Urmia basin. Lysimetric RET was collected at two stations for 4 years. RET equations were then evaluated using the lysimetric data; the best equation was determined. The RET data obtained from FWP were evaluated at daily, monthly and annual scales using the results of the selected equation for the years 2010–2020. Finally, the accuracy of FWP in the spatial estimation of RET was compared with geostatistical methods. The results show that the FAO Penman–Monteith (FPM) equation was more accurate at both stations. Therefore, the results of the FPM were used to evaluate the reference evapotranspiration of FWP. The average nRMSE of the FWP to daily, monthly and annual data was 31, 25 and 16%, respectively. In general, 15% overestimation was observed in the FWP. Comparison of the FWP with geostatistical methods showed that the highest and lowest accuracy was observed in the experimental kriging method and FWP with an nRMSE value of 4.6 and 18%, respectively.
The outcomes of a national clinical review process for nonformulary medication requests in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Khardaly Amr M. , Almudaiheem Hajar Y. , Alkhnaizi Ghadeer , Eshwi Mohammed , Alshennawi Mohammed , Alissa Dema A. , Al‐jedai Ahmed H.
Published: July 2022

Background

Medications often constitute a significant percentage of health care budgets; therefore ensuring rational medication use is essential. In December 2017, the Saudi Ministry of Health (MOH) introduced a national clinical review process for nonformulary medications (NFMs) requests across 284 MOH institutions to standardize review and approval process under the governance of Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee (PTC).

Objectives

This study aims to describe the effectiveness of implementing a national clinical review process for NFMs on the approval rate, decision turnaround time, and potential cost savings within MOH institutions.

Methods

This was a retrospective, observational cohort study undertaken over 36 months. All NFM requests were received through an electronic system, linking all the ministry's regions and departments with a single coding system. Quantitative descriptive statistics: frequency, percentage, median, and interquartile range were used to present the results of this study. A P value ≤.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The approval rate among a total of 2388 NFM requests was 1733 (74%). The median submission turnaround time for NFM requests in 2018 to 2020 were 12.5 (interquartile range [IQR]: 5‐24), 7 (IQR: 3‐15), and 7 (IQR: 4‐14) working days, respectively (P ≤ .001). The median decision turnaround time for NFM requests in 2018 to 2020 were 7 (IQR: 4‐10), 5 (IQR: 3‐9), and 5 (IQR: 4‐8) working days, respectively (P = .019). Of the 615 disapproved requests, 514 (83.6%) were disapproved for a single reason. Moreover, disapproval of requests equated to a potential cost savings which exceeded 14.8 million United States dollars.

Conclusions

This initial study showed that implementing a structured, systematic review process for NFM requests resulted in potential cost savings and acceptable turnaround times for nonurgent requests. However, further studies are needed to examine the actual cost savings and clinical impact on patient outcomes.