bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Microplastics inhibit the decomposition of soil organic matter by adult darkling beetles (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)
Authors: Staczek Fiona M , Mbora David N M 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are a growing problem worldwide. Soils are long-term storage sinks of MPs because of the many pathways they enter the soil and their long degradation period. Knowing how MPs influence soil organisms, the effects of organisms on the fate of MPs, and what this means for soil additions, losses, transformations, and translocations is paramount. MPs in soil could impede the breakdown of organic matter by adult darkling beetles. We set up an experiment to test this hypothesis by adding finely ground scrap tire rubber to organic soil and a small population of adult darkling beetles (Zophobas morio, Fabricius 1776, Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). The beetles are omnivores that accelerate the breakdown of soil organic matter when feeding on soil detritus. As a control, we released beetles into organic soil with no MPs. We also surveyed published manuscripts on the effects of MPs on insects, decomposers, and decomposition in soil, providing a reference frame for our findings. Darkling beetles ate, fragmented, and humidified the soil mixture, enhancing microbial decomposition. All treatments lost weight over the experiment period, with the control losing 10%, significantly more than the other treatments (an average loss of 5%). Higher concentrations of microplastics in soils led to lower reductions in soil mass through decomposition. These findings suggest that MPs impede detritivores from breaking down soil organic matter. Even so, only a handful of studies evaluated the effects of tire particles on soils and detritivores in the literature survey. Still, these particles are among the largest sources of MPs on land.
Risk of bleeding with the concurrent use of amiodarone and DOACs: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Michael Faith , Quevilllon Travis , Maisonneuve Sabrina , Jackevicius Cynthia A , Crystal Eugene , Parkash Ratika , Andrade Jason G , Healey Jeff S , Ko Dennis T , Shurrab Mohammed 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background and Aims
Amiodarone is frequently prescribed alongside direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in atrial fibrillation (AF). There are concerns regarding drug-drug interactions (DDIs) between amiodarone and DOACs. The literature is conflicting on the clinical implications of this DDI, hence we conducted a meta-analysis to compare bleeding risk among patients receiving DOACs, with and without concurrent amiodarone.

Methods
A systematic search was conducted for studies published between January 1, 2009 and June 26, 2024 in MEDLINE via PubMed, Embase and CENTRAL. Included studies compared major bleeding in patients on concurrent amiodarone and DOACs to those on DOACs without amiodarone. Event rates were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs), which were pooled with a random-effects model.

Results
Nine studies were identified, which included 124 813 patients on amiodarone/DOACs, and 314 074 on DOACs. Average age was 77.2 years in the amiodarone/DOAC group, compared to 74.4 years in the DOAC group (p= 0.21). Among DOAC patients, there was a statistically significant increase in major bleeding with concurrent amiodarone (OR 1.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03-1.44, p=0.02, I2=88%). Intracranial bleeding rate was numerically higher in the amiodarone/DOAC group (1.0% vs. 0.4%), but the difference did not reach statistical significance (OR 2.20, 95% CI 0.53-9.06, p=0.27, I2=100%). There were no significant differences in gastrointestinal bleeding (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.98-1.23, p=0.12, I2=62%) and all-cause mortality (OR 1.38, 95% CI 0.70-2.73, p=0.35, I2=99%).

Conclusion
Concurrent use of amiodarone and DOACs was associated with an increase in major bleeding. This should be considered when co-prescribing these medications.
Predicting type 2 diabetes and testosterone effects in high-risk Australian men: development and external validation of a 2-year risk model
Authors: Robledo Kristy P , Marschner Ian C , Grossmann Mathis , Handelsman David J , Yeap Bu B , Allan Carolyn A , Foote Celine , Inder Warrick J , Stuckey Bronwyn G A , Jesudason David , Bracken Karen , Keech Anthony C , Jenkins Alicia J , Gebski Val , Jardine Meg , Wittert Gary 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective
We have shown that men aged 50 years+ at high risk of type 2 diabetes treated with testosterone together with a lifestyle program reduced the risk of type 2 diabetes at 2 years by 40% compared to a lifestyle program alone. To develop a personalized approach to treatment, we aimed to explore a prognostic model for incident type 2 diabetes at 2 years and investigate biomarkers predictive of the testosterone effect.

Design
Model development in 783 men with impaired glucose tolerance but not type 2 diabetes from Testosterone for Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes; a multicenter, 2-year trial of Testosterone vs placebo. External validation performed in 236 men from the Examining Outcomes in Chronic Disease in the 45 and Up Study (EXTEND-45, n = 267 357).

Methods
Type 2 diabetes at 2 years defined as 2-h fasting glucose by oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) ≥11.1 mmol/L. Risk factors, including predictive biomarkers of testosterone treatment, were assessed using penalized logistic regression.

Results
Baseline HbA1c and 2-h OGTT glucose were dominant predictors, together with testosterone, age, and an interaction between testosterone and HbA1c (P = .035, greater benefit with HbA1c ≥ 5.6%, 38 mmol/mol). The final model identified men who developed type 2 diabetes, with C-statistics 0.827 in development and 0.798 in validation. After recalibration, the model accurately predicted a participant's absolute risk of type 2 diabetes.

Conclusions
Baseline HbA1c and 2-h OGTT glucose predict incident type 2 diabetes at 2 years in high-risk men, with risk modified independently by testosterone treatment. Men with HbA1c ≥ 5.6% (38 mmol/mol) benefit most from testosterone treatment, beyond a lifestyle program.
A review on comparative analysis of marine and freshwater fish gut microbiomes: insights into environmental impact on gut microbiota
Authors: Singh Binoy Kumar , Thakur Kushal , Kumari Hishani , Mahajan Danish , Sharma Dixit , Sharma Amit Kumar , Kumar Sunil , Singh Birbal , Pankaj Pranay Punj , Kumar Rakesh 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The gut microbiota, which includes prokaryotes, archaea, and eukaryotes such as yeasts, some protozoa, and fungi, significantly impacts fish by affecting digestion, metabolism, and the immune system. In this research, we combine various tasks carried out by various bacteria in the gut of fish. This study also examines the gut microbiome composition of marine and freshwater fish, identifying important bacterial species linked to different biological functions. The diversity within fish species highlights the importance of considering nutrition, habitat, and environmental factors in microbiological research on fish. The ever-changing gut microbiome of the fish indicates that microbial communities are specifically adapted to meet the needs of both the host and its environment. This indicates that the fish can adjust to a specific environment with the help of gut microbiota. This important research is crucial for comprehending the complex relationships between fish and their gut bacteria in different aquatic environments. These discoveries have implications for aquaculture practices, fisheries administration, and the broader ecological processes of both freshwater and marine environments. With further progress in this area of study, the knowledge acquired would offer a valuable standpoint to enhance our comprehension of aquatic microbiology and enhance the sustainability and nutrition of fish resources.
Dietary Carrageenan Amplifies the Inflammatory Profile, but not Permeability, of Intestinal Epithelial Cells from Patients With Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Vissers Eva , Wellens Judith , Giorio Lorenzo , Zadora Ward , Verstockt Bram , Ferrante Marc , Vermeire Séverine , Matthys Christophe , Arnauts Kaline , Sabino João 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
The consumption of ultra-processed foods has increased significantly worldwide and is associated with the rise in inflammatory bowel diseases. However, any causative factors and their underlying mechanisms are yet to be identified. This study aimed to further elucidate whether different types of the dietary emulsifier carrageenan (CGN) can alter the permeability and inflammatory state of the intestinal epithelium.

Methods
Caco-2/HT29-MTX cocultures (n = 4) were exposed to either κ-, ι-, or λ-CGN (100 µg mL–1) for 24 hours. Organoid-derived monolayers from patients with Crohn’s Disease (CD) were exposed to κ-CGN (100 µg mL–1) for 48 hours (n = 10). In both models, an inflamed condition was established by adding a mix of inflammatory stimuli. Changes in permeability were measured by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER). In the organoid-derived monolayers, cytokines were quantified in the apical and basolateral supernatant and gene expression was analyzed with RT-qPCR.

Results
None of the CGN subtypes altered permeability of non-inflamed or inflamed Caco-2/HT29-MTX cocultures. In organoid-derived monolayers, κ-CGN did not affect TEER, but induced alterations in the gene expression of tight junctions and mucus proteins. Expression of TNF, IL8, and IL1B increased upon κ-CGN stimulation, both in inflamed and non-inflamed monolayers. Cytokine release in the supernatant was increased by κ-CGN for IL-6, IL-13, IL-4, IL-2, and IL-10.

Conclusions
Dietary CGN caused upregulation of inflammatory markers and affected cytokine release of intestinal epithelial cells from CD patients, while permeability remained unaltered. When inflammation was already present, this pro-inflammatory effect was more pronounced, suggesting a role for dietary CGN during active CD.
Global prevalence, resistance rates, and underlying resistance mechanisms of clinical Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma species
Authors: Ramaloko Winnie Thabisa , Maningi Nontuthuko Excellent , Osei Sekyere John 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Mycoplasmas are significant pathogens in human health, implicated in a range of clinical conditions from respiratory infections to urogenital disorders. Their resistance to commonly used antibiotics poses a substantial challenge to treatment and control. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the global distribution of clinical mycoplasmas, elucidate their resistance to various antibiotics, and identify the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying their resistance. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted, collating data from peer-reviewed publications between 2012 and 2024. The UK (100%) and Germany (98%) reported high numbers of respiratory mycoplasmas, with 7% and 2% being resistant to macrolides. For urogenital mycoplasmas, Iceland (99%) and Estonia (94%) reported a high prevalence of Mycoplasma species, whereas the UK (85%), France (82%), and the USA (82%) reported a high prevalence of Ureaplasma species. High resistance rates in Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma have been reported in Greenland (100%) and the UK (86%), respectively. The rising resistance rates in these species underscore an urgent need for updated treatment guidelines and the development of novel therapeutic options. Our findings highlight the importance of tailored antibiotic stewardship and the potential of genomic insights in guiding effective treatment strategies.
The ability of plain radiography to accurately describe the bone surface at the head–neck junction of the femur: a study using human bone models
Authors: Mimura Tomohiro , Furuya Yuki , Kumagai Kosuke , Amano Yasutaka , Miyahara Shunichi , Uemura Ryota , Horikawa Sadafumi , Saito Hideki , Umeda Kohei , Ushiyama Fumitaka , Ogata Yugen , Yayama Takafumi , Mori Kanji , Imai Shinji 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
In evaluations of a cam deformity on femoroacetabular impingement, the head–neck junction (HNJ) must be accurately assessed. We conducted this study to determine the ability of plain radiography to visualize the end-to-end bone surface of the HNJ. We used six human bone models. Ten examiners evaluated the degree to which attached stainless wire marker at the 1:00, 1:30, and 2:00 radial plane defined in reconstructed computed tomography can be accurately detected on the bone surface on plain radiographies. We employed 13 plain radiographies: the cross-table lateral view, frog-leg lateral view, Espié frog-leg lateral view, false-profile view, modified false-profile view, 30° Dunn view (DV), 45° DV, 60° DV, 90° DV, 30° modified Dunn view (MDV), 45° MDV, 60° MDV, and 90° MDV. Examiners scored the degree to which the radiographic images accurately detected the stainless wire marker on the bone surface of the HNJ on a scale of 1 point (0% match) to 5 points (almost 100% match). The highest score for the 1:00 plane was 4.98 points on the 45° DV. Similarly, the highest scores of the 1:30 and 2:00 planes were 4.98 points for the 45° MDV and 4.68 points for the 90° MDV, respectively. On these bone model studies, the most suitable plain radiography for describing the HNJ at the 1:00, 1:30, and 2:00 planes were both the 45° DV, the 45° MDV, and the 90° MDV, respectively.
Molecular characterization of root-lesion nematode, Pratylenchus species, and their prevalence in New Zealand maize fields
Authors: Thiruchchelvan Nagarathnam , Kularathna Manjula , Moukarzel Romy , Casonato Seona , Condron Leo M 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Root-lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus spp.) are significant plant parasites, causing substantial crop damage worldwide. This study aimed to characterize Pratylenchus spp. in New Zealand maize fields using molecular techniques and map their prevalence. Soil sampling from 24 maize fields across the North and South Islands provided 381 composite samples. Root-lesion nematodes were extracted using the sieving-centrifugal-sugar flotation method and differentiated into five morphospecies. Molecular characterization involved direct partial sequencing of the D2/D3 28S rDNA, ITS rDNA, and COX1 mtDNA regions using Sanger technology from a single nematode. Five Pratylenchus species were identified: P. neglectus, P. crenatus, P. thornei, P. penetrans, and P. pratensis, confirmed by phylogenetic analysis. Prevalence mapping showed P. neglectus and P. crenatus in all sampled fields, while P. thornei, P. penetrans, and P. pratensis were more localized. This study is the first to report these Pratylenchus species on maize in New Zealand and provides the first partial sequences of the D2/D3, COX1, and ITS regions for these species on maize in New Zealand. The findings highlight the diversity of Pratylenchus populations in New Zealand maize fields and emphasize the need for region-specific management strategies to mitigate crop damage.
FRB 20230708A, a quasi-periodic FRB with unique temporal-polarimetric morphology
Authors: Dial T , Deller A T , Uttarkar P A , Lower M E , Shannon R M , Gourdji Kelly , Marnoch Lachlan , Bera A , Ryder Stuart D , Glowacki Marcin , Prochaska J Xavier 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT
There has been a rapid increase in the known fast radio burst (FRB) population, yet the progenitor(s) of these events have remained an enigma. A small number of FRBs have displayed some level of quasi-periodicity in their burst profile, which can be used to constrain their plausible progenitors. However, these studies suffer from the lack of polarization data which can greatly assist in constraining possible FRB progenitors and environments. Here, we report on the detection and characterisation of FRB 20230708A by the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP), a burst which displays a rich temporal and polarimetric morphology. We model the burst time series to test for the presence of periodicity, scattering and scintillation. We find a potential period of T = 7.267 ms within the burst, but with a low statistical significance of 1.77$\sigma$. Additionally, we model the burst’s time- and frequency-dependent polarization to search for the presence of (relativistic and non-relativistic) propagation effects. We find no evidence to suggest that the high circular polarization seen in FRB 20230708A is generated by Faraday conversion. The majority of the properties of FRB 20230708A are broadly consistent with a (non-millisecond) magnetar model in which the quasi-periodic morphology results from microstructure in the beamed emission, but other explanations are not excluded.
A superior colliculus-originating circuit prevents cocaine reinstatement via VR-based eye movement desensitization treatment
Authors: Liu Yang , Zhou Zi-Xiang , Lv Qiu , Huang Guan , Zhang Han , Wang Ye-Qin , Chen Jian-Guo , Wang Fang 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
While Virtual Reality (VR) technology shows promise in the management of substance use disorders, the development of an effective VR-based extinction procedure remains lacking. In this study, we developed a VR-based eye movement desensitization and reprocessing extinction training program tailored for mice. We found that this VR treatment during cocaine extinction prevents reinstatement by suppressing the hyperactivation of glutamatergic excitatory neurons in the intermediate layers of the superior colliculus (SCiCaMKIIα) during exposure to environmental cues. Additionally, SCiCaMKIIα neurons innervate tyrosine hydroxylase-positive neurons in the locus coeruleus (LCTH). Environmental cues trigger stronger phasic activation of LCTH neurons through this SCiCaMKIIα→LCTH projection, leading to increased dopamine release onto the dorsal CA3 (dCA3) region, thereby facilitating reinstatement. Furthermore, we demonstrate that VR treatment effectively inhibits the neural circuitry involving SCiCaMKIIα→LCTH→dCA3 in response to environmental cues, thus preventing cocaine reinstatement. Our findings suggest that VR treatment may represent a promising strategy for achieving drug abstinence.
Brainwide mesoscale functional networks revealed by focal infrared neural stimulation of the amygdala
Authors: Ping An , Wang Jianbao , Ángel García-Cabezas Miguel , Li Lihui , Zhang Jianmin , Gothard Katalin M , Zhu Junming , Roe Anna Wang 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The primate amygdala serves to evaluate emotional content of sensory inputs and modulate emotional and social behaviors; it modulates cognitive, multisensory and autonomic circuits predominantly via the basal, lateral, and central nuclei, respectively. Recent evidence has suggested the mesoscale (millimeter-scale) nature of intra-amygdala functional organization. However, the connectivity patterns by which these mesoscale regions interact with brainwide networks remain unclear. Using Infrared Neural Stimulation of single mesoscale sites coupled with mapping in ultrahigh field 7T functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (INS-fMRI), we have discovered that these mesoscale sites exert influence over a surprisingly extensive scope of the brain. Our findings strongly indicate that mesoscale sites within the amygdala modulate brainwide networks through a ‘one-to-many’ (integral) way. Meanwhile, these connections exhibit a point-to-point (focal) topography. Our work provides new insights into the functional architecture underlying emotional and social behavioral networks, thereby opening up possibilities for individualized modulation of psychological disorders.
Perspective on the deconstruction of science and how to rebuild our cathedrals of knowledge
Authors: Sabbadini Roger A 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Of the critical institutions that deconstructionists wish to dismantle is science. In this perspective, we document recent assaults on this venerable institution. From Galileo’s Renaissance through the twentieth century and the Scopes trial, superstition and religious dogma won over reason in battles between religion and science. Even though Galileo’s inquisition occurred 400 years ago, science is still under attack today in the twenty-first century. While one may dismiss or excuse the older examples of science’s devaluation on the basis that science was not an accepted source of knowledge at the time, present-day challenges are more problematic and disturbing.
Swiss science diplomacy: exploring strategies, instruments, current priorities, and the role of international development cooperation
Authors: Saric Jasmina , Bretzler Anja , Breu Thomas , Utzinger Jürg , Käser Fabian 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Contemporary science diplomacy holds promise not only to strengthen diplomatic and science realms but also to advance sustainable development transformations. In Switzerland, formal adoption of the concept around 2019 led to the support of several science diplomacy instruments. This article systematically assesses the Swiss science diplomacy ecosystem, examines its components and alignment with common frameworks, and determines the potential impact of the current polycrisis. Additionally, the article explores the overlaps with international development cooperation. This first systematic portrayal of national-level science diplomacy reveals a multifaceted ecosystem, recognized as increasingly relevant by its principal actors and the government. Activities pivot towards engagement with global research and innovation leaders who can drive and deploy leading technologies to define global policy and address societal challenges. In tandem, Swiss development cooperation endeavours promote sustainable development globally and bridge technology and knowledge gaps with low-income nations. Important gaps remain at the levels of communication and coordination internally and externally that should be addressed without delay.
A Scoping Review of Preceptor Training Programs for Physician Assistants: Curriculum and Design
Authors: Schoenfuss Erin S. 
Published: December 2024

Introduction
Preceptors are crucial in the education of physician assistant (PA) students, yet many lack formal preceptor training. The aim of this scoping review was to describe the curriculum and design of existing preceptor training programs for physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and physicians.

Methods
This scoping review was developed following the methodologic framework provided by the Joanna Briggs Institute. The literature search included a review of the electronic databases CINAHL and MEDLINE, a Web search, and an examination of article references. The search encompassed empirical, peer-reviewed studies written in English and published between January 1, 2019, and May 1, 2024.

Results
Out of 1106 sources identified, 32 met the eligibility criteria, representing 31 preceptor training programs. Eighty-four percent of these programs were based in the United States. Fifty curricular topics were identified and organized into 10 domains. Feedback and teaching were addressed in 97% of the programs. Sixteen programs used an online format, which increased each year compared with other formats. Lectures were the most common teaching method. Program length varied. The majority of participants and article authors were physicians, with only 5 programs including PA participants.

Discussion
The curricula and design of preceptor training programs varied but were generally well received by participants. There was limited involvement of PAs in both participation and authorship of preceptor training research. This review underscores the benefits of preceptor training while highlighting the need for increased PA engagement in both training and program development.