bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The evolution of silk production in Crustacea
Authors: McKim Siena A , Turner Thomas L 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
Spun silk is found only in arthropods, where it plays critical roles in feeding, protection, and reproduction. It has evolved repeatedly within the arthropods, providing an opportunity for comparative analyses to reveal the mechanisms driving convergent evolution within this taxon. Silk in crustaceans has received much less attention than silk in arachnids and insects but may have unique and useful properties. We combine data on the morphology of silk and silk systems with ancestral state reconstruction and find that silk has likely evolved convergently at least six times within Crustacea. We also break down the components of crustacean silk as a composite trait by discussing the silk properties, the silk production systems, and the silk genes. We find that amphipod and tanaid silks are similar to silkworm and spider silks but have their own unique silk system morphology. Much remains unknown about the origins and diversification of silk in crustaceans; we propose that the molecular investigation of silk genes and systems will provide a path forward. By investigating the evolution of silk production in crustaceans, we may discover insights into predispositions for silk production in arthropods and valuable substrates for biomaterial research.
The gravity of distance: evidence from a trade embargo
Authors: Al-Malk Afnan , Maystadt Jean-François , Zanardi Maurizio 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
On 5 June 2017, an airspace blockade was imposed on the State of Qatar by Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (neighboring countries), and Egypt. We exploit this exogenous increase in air transportation costs toward non-blockading countries to examine the effect of increased travel distance, due to re-routing, on bilateral trade. Based on a gravity model estimated using a Poisson pseudo-maximum likelihood estimator, we find a distance elasticity of imports between −0.3 and −0.5. Overcoming the limitations of cross-sectional studies and taking advantage of this quasi-natural experiment, our findings are robust and revise downward previous estimates of the distance elasticity.
Phylogeny and taxonomic revision of Metacephalus (Insecta: Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) with description of seven new leafhopper species
Authors: Prando Jádila Santos , Takiya Daniela Maeda 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Metacephalus Delong and Martinson, 1973 includes leafhopper species from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador (new record), Guyana, French Guiana (new record), Panama, Peru, and Venezuela. In the present revisionary study, we describe seven new species of Metacephalus, propose one species synonymy (M. cinctus as junior synonym of M. facetus), and provide new country records for species, considerably expanding knowledge about species distributions. The study also provides redescriptions and photographs of diagnostic characters for 12 previously described valid species and an identification key to all 21 species of Metacephalus. Molecular phylogenies of Metacephalus species are hypothesized based on maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses of 1,387 bp of mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase I and 16S rDNA and nuclear histone H3. Results of the molecular phylogeny generated herein provided a base for understanding character homologies when presenting morphological diagnoses of Metacephalus species and exposed a high level of convergent characters in color pattern and male genitalia morphology usually used in morphological taxonomy of this group of leafhoppers.
Attractiveness, longevity, and release rates of multilure wafers for trapping males of the oriental fruit fly and melon fly (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Shelly Todd , Fezza Thomas , Cook Peter , Cook Dylan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Invasive fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) pose a serious threat to the production and export of many commercially important fruits and vegetables. Detection of the agricultural pests Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) and Zeugodacus cucurbitae (Coquillett) relies heavily on traps baited with male-specific attractants. For B. dorsalis, traps are typically baited with liquid methyl eugenol (ME), and for Z. cucurbitae, traps are baited with liquid cue-lure (CL). Operating large-scale trapping networks is costly, consequently, there is much interest in identifying ways to maintain network sensitivity while reducing costs. One cost-cutting approach is the possibility of combining different male lures in the same dispenser, thus reducing the number of traps requiring servicing. The chief objective of this study was to compare captures of B. dorsalis and Z. cucurbitae males in Jackson traps baited with polymeric wafers impregnated with both ME and raspberry ketone (RK, a hydrolyzed form of CL) versus traps baited with liquid ME or CL freshly applied to cotton wicks. Captures were measured when the ME/RK wafers had been weathered for 12, 18, or 24 wk. Captures of B. dorsalis and Z. cucurbitae males were similar between fresh lure and weathered wafers over all trapping periods, with a single exception apparently due to the lessened potency of the associated killing agent. The residual amount and release rate of ME and RK from the wafers were also measured to examine possible relationships between wafer chemistry and trap catch. The possible implications of the present results to area-wide trapping programs are discussed.
Guardians of the clams: a decadal monitoring effort of endangered giant clams by citizen scientists
Authors: Neo Mei Lin 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
Giant clams are highly conspicuous marine bivalves in the tropical oceans because of their large shells and colourful outer mantle tissues. This makes them an appropriate iconic species for both trained and untrained citizen science surveys. In Singapore, because of good public awareness of giant clams, they are often reported by citizen scientists, who document marine species using photography. Furthermore, these opportunistic records are captured in a comprehensive public blog (Wild Shores of Singapore; https://wildshores.blogspot.com) with specific details of the field surveys. This study presents the first feasible effort in establishing a long-term dataset based on citizen science observations to report giant clam species-level population status and trends over time. Between 2011 and 2020, citizen scientists covered 8.53 km2 of intertidal reef areas and consistently recorded only two giant clam species (Tridacna squamosa and T. crocea) annually. Despite the more comprehensive coverage and sampling of reef areas, the citizen scientists did not encounter the other native species: Hippopus hippopus, T. gigas and T. maxima. Also, the respective densities of T. squamosa and T. crocea were 0.00120 and 0.00034 individuals per 100 m2, which makes them the smallest known giant clam populations in the Indo-Pacific region. Regardless, the sampling efforts of citizen scientists were generally similar across the years, but future surveys could adapt different survey protocols for the respective giant clam species. Findings from this study also support the marine conservation efforts in Singapore, such as using active intervention measures to protect their giant clams. Additionally, lessons learnt from these citizen science observations can be harnessed to encourage monitoring of giant clams throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
Efficacy of Probiotics Compared With Pharmacological Treatments for Maintenance Therapy for Functional Constipation in Children: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis
Authors: Harris Rebecca G , Neale Elizabeth P , Batterham Marijka 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Context
There has been an increase in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing probiotics with various maintenance therapies, such as polyethylene glycol, lactulose, and mineral oil, to treat functional constipation in children.

Objective
The aim was to compare probiotics with all other oral maintenance therapies for functional constipation in children and rank all treatments in terms of effectiveness in a network meta-analysis.

Methods
RCTs were identified through systematically searching the MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases, trial registries, and forward and backward citation searching. Within-study risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool, and confidence in the estimates was assessed using the CINeMA (Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis) framework. Random-effects network meta-analyses were conducted.

Results
Data were pooled from 41 and 29 RCTs for network meta-analysis of defecation frequency and treatment success, respectively. Probiotics did not significantly increase the number of bowel movements per week when compared with any conventional treatment or placebo. A combination of mineral oil and probiotics was the most effective treatment for increasing defecation frequency (mean difference: 3.13; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.64, 5.63). The most effective treatments for increasing the risk of treatment success as compared with placebo were mineral oil (relative risk [RR]: 2.41; 95% CI: 1.53, 3.81) and a combined treatment of polyethylene glycol and lactulose (RR: 2.45; 95% CI: 1.21, 4.97). Confidence in the estimates ranged from very low to moderate.

Conclusion
Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that probiotics should be used as a standalone treatment for functional constipation in children. More high-quality studies are needed to evaluate different strains of probiotics and their potential benefit as an additional treatment component to conventional treatments. Mineral oil and polyethylene glycol were the most effective treatments to increase defecation frequency and treatment success rates and should remain the first line of treatment for children with functional constipation.

Systematic Review Registration
PROSPERO registration no.

CRD42022360977 (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=360977).
Unveiling the Effects of Cruciferous Vegetable Intake on Different Cancers: A Systematic Review and Dose–Response Meta-analysis
Authors: Zheng Sicong , Yan Jielin , Wang Jiaxin , Wang Xinyi , Kang Yea Eun , Koo Bon Seok , Shan Yujuan , Liu Lihua 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Context
Epidemiological studies indicated that cruciferous vegetable intake is associated with positive health outcomes. However, the role of cruciferous vegetables may have differential impacts on various cancers.

Objective
This meta-analysis aims to review recent epidemiological studies on the link between cruciferous vegetables and various cancers. It seeks to identify the optimal intake dose and timing of cruciferous vegetables influencing their association with cancer risk.

Data Sources
Studies on cruciferous vegetables and cancer were searched in PubMed, NCBI, Web of Science, and Elsevier databases from 1978 to June 2023.

Data Extraction
Extracted data from 226 relevant case-control and cohort studies were expressed by standardized mean difference and 95% CI, followed by the subgroup analysis to eliminate heterogeneity.

Results
Intake of cruciferous vegetables can prevent cancers, with an odds ratio of 0.77 and risk ratio (RR) of 0.96. The intake levels of cruciferous vegetables associated with the risk of colorectal cancer, lung cancer, upper gastrointestinal cancer, gynecological cancer (ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer), bladder cancer, renal cancer, and prostate cancer were found to be 5.41 servings/week, 5.41 servings/week, 5.5 servings/week, 7.4 servings/week, 5.5 servings/week, 4.85 servings/week, and 3 servings/week, respectively. In a cohort followed for 2 to 15 years, limited consumption of cruciferous vegetables was correlated with a higher cancer RR. In the Asian population, cruciferous vegetables had a significant relationship with lung cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, and esophageal cancer. Conversely, cruciferous vegetables are predominantly associated with colorectal, renal, gynecological, and prostate cancer in the American population.

Conclusion
This study highlights the complex link between cruciferous vegetables and cancer, influenced by factors such as cancer type, region, intake level, and follow-up duration.
Spatial transcriptomic analysis deciphers adipocyte-to-fibroblast transformation in bleomycin-induced murine skin fibrosis
Authors: Zhang Yixiang , He Jiahao , Xie Fangzhou , Shan Shengzhou , Qin Jiaqi , Wang Chuandong , Li Qingfeng , Xie Yun , Fang Bin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
Scleroderma is characterized by inflammation and fibrosis, predominantly occurring in the skin and extending to various parts of the body. The pathophysiology of scleroderma is multifaceted, with the current understanding including endothelial damage, inflammatory cell infiltration, and fibroblast activation in its progression. Nonetheless, the mechanism of cellular interactions and the precise spatial distribution of these cellular events within the fibrotic tissues remain elusive, highlighting a critical gap in our comprehensive understanding of scleroderma’s pathogenesis.

Methods:
In this study, we administered bleomycin intradermally to the dorsal skin of four individual murine models. Subsequently, skin tissues were harvested at predetermined intervals for comprehensive spatial transcriptomic analysis to determine the spatial dynamics influencing scleroderma pathogenesis. To validate the possible results from bioinformatic analysis, further in vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted.

Results:
Analysis of the spatial transcriptome revealed significant alterations in cell clusters during the progression of scleroderma. Gene Ontology analysis identified disruptions in lipid metabolism as the disease advanced. Pseudotime analysis provided evidence for a phenotypic transition from adipocytes to fibroblasts. In vitro studies demonstrated increased expression of Col1a1 and α-SMA as the disease progressed. These fibroblasts have been identified as key contributors to the increasing inflammation. Co-culturing TGF-β induced adipocytes with RAW264.7 cells resulted in overexpression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the RAW264.7 cells. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed adipocyte loss and fibroblast formation, with transformed fibroblasts showing pronounced pro-inflammatory characteristics, highlighting their crucial role in the disease mechanism.

Conclusions:
Our study showed the spatial distribution and dynamic alterations of various cell types during scleroderma progression. Crucially, we identified the transformation of adipocytes into fibroblasts as a key factor promoting disease advancement. These emergent fibroblasts intensify inflammation, indicating that research on these cell clusters could reveal key scleroderma mechanisms and guide future therapies.
Resilient emergency medical systems for 21st-century complex world
Authors: Goniewicz Krzysztof , Ratnayake Amila S. , Khorram-Manesh Amir 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The 21st-century global health landscape presents unprecedented challenges, such as antimicrobial resistance, mental health issues, and the rapid spread of infectious diseases due to urbanization and mobility. The Sendai Framework and initiatives such as Singapore’s analytics in combating dengue exemplify the push for disaster risk reduction and advanced preparedness. The recent pandemic has underscored the vulnerabilities of health systems, highlighting the need for telehealth and improved emergency response capacities. Military-civilian partnerships and psychological support for healthcare workers have emerged as some critical components. Embracing an all-hazard approach and prioritizing environmental and psychological resilience are key to a robust, culturally sensitive global health strategy, emphasizing the importance of open-access research for comprehensive global preparedness.
Dynamic Changes of Growth and Thyroid Function in Young Children With Chronic Hepatitis B Treated With Peginterferon Monotherapy
Authors: He Qiufeng , Mao Chuangjie , Chen Zhili , Duan Fangfang , Huang Liang , Hu Rong , Deng Yang , Cheng Jun , Yang Song , Zeng Yilan 
Published: September 2024

Background:
Peginterferon (PegIFN) has shown promising results in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B (CHB). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of PegIFN α-2b on growth and thyroid function in young children with CHB.

Methods:
A retrospective study was performed by extracting clinical data from children with CHB who received PegIFN α-2b monotherapy at the Public Health Clinical Center of Chengdu between June 2017 and December 2020. Mean, SD, independent samples t test and 1-way repeated analysis of variance were used to evaluate relevant data.

Results:
A total of 62 children were included in this study. Overall, significant differences were observed in the weight-for-age z score (WAZ), height-for-age z score (HAZ) and body mass index-for-age z score (BAZ) at different time points (P < 0.001). WAZ, HAZ and BAZ were not affected by PegIFN α-2b at 24 weeks of treatment (all P > 0.05). WAZ, HAZ and BAZ at the end of treatment and 48 weeks after treatment; WAZ at 96 weeks after treatment were lower than baseline levels (all P < 0.05). No statistical differences were found in HAZ and BAZ at 96 weeks after treatment compared with baseline. Thyroid dysfunction developed in 17.7% of children during the treatment. Thyroid dysfunction was transient and had no effect on growth.

Conclusions:
PegIFN α-2b has inhibitory effects on growth and can increase the incidence of thyroid dysfunction in young children with CHB. These effects are generally reversible with the cessation of therapy, although WAZ had not returned to baseline after 96 weeks of observation.
Measuring Self-Care
Authors: Riegel Barbara , De Maria Maddalena , Barbaranelli Claudio , Luciani Michela , Ausili Davide , Dickson Victoria Vaughan , Jaarsma Tiny , Matarese Maria , Stromberg Anna , Vellone Ercole 
Published: September 2024

Background
In recent years, there has been an exponential increase in attention paid to the patient-reported outcome of self-care. Many investigators have used one of the families of self-care instruments freely available on the website www.self-care-measures.com. These self-care measures have been translated into many languages, which are also available on the website. The measures include both disease-specific and generic instruments, which are based on a common theoretical framework, the Middle Range Theory of Self-Care of Chronic Illness.

Purpose
The purpose of this article is to illustrate similarities among the instruments and to standardize their scoring, analysis, and use. We describe the Self-Care of Heart Failure Index, the Self-Care of Coronary Heart Disease Inventory, the Self-Care of Hypertension Inventory, the Self-Care of Diabetes Inventory, the Self-Care of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Inventory, the Self-Care of Chronic Illness Inventory, and the Self-Care Inventory. Detailed guidance on scoring, translation, and analysis is provided. Complementary measures of self-care self-efficacy and those used to measure caregiver contributions to patient self-care are briefly described.

Conclusions
Many of the common questions of instrument users are answered in this article. Following this guidance will facilitate consistent use of the instruments, which will enable users to compare their results to those of others worldwide and facilitate future reviews and meta-analyses.
Clinical Implications
This review, emphasizing standard scoring and interpretation, is useful for clinicians and researchers across various populations and settings.
Prophylactic intra-abdominal drainage during pancreaticoduodenectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chang Lufeng , Yang Yuxin , Liu Zhiqiang , Peng Tao , Wang Chunyou , Wu Heshui , Gou Shanmiao 
Published: September 2024

Background:
Prophylactic abdominal drainage during pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is a common treatment strategy for pancreatic fistula. However, its benefits and safety have been the subject of debate. The objective of this meta-analysis and system review is to assess the effects of prophylactic drainage, various types of drainage (active and passive), and the timing of drainage removal (early and late) on the postoperative outcomes of PD.

Methods:
A systematic literature search was conducted in the PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases as of April 28, 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing prophylactic abdominal drainage, different drainage patterns, and the timing of drainage removal after PD were included, and the postoperative outcomes were evaluated. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated to aggregate dichotomous outcomes. Meta-analysis was performed using the Mantel-Haenszel fixed- and random-effects models.

Results:
Nine RCTs, including a total of 1638 patients, were incorporated in our study.
The meta-analysis showed no statistically significant differences in postoperative outcomes between the closed-suction drain (CSD) group and the passive drain to gravity (PDG) group. Compared to the late drain removal (LDR) group, the early drain removal (EDR) group had a significant reduction in the incidence of Clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) (OR=0.39, 95% CI=0.20 to 0.79; P=0.009), morbidity (OR=0.41, 95% CI=0.20 to 0.84; P=0.01) and intra-abdominal infection (OR=0.40, 95% CI=0.22 to 0.75; P=0.004). For the group of present of drainage and the group of absent of drainage, the patient inclusion criteria of the included studies were too heterogeneous, making meta-analysis inappropriate.

Conclusion:
The existing evidence is insufficient to negate the necessity of prophylactic drainage after PD. The meta-analysis did not show superiority of any specific approaches of drainage tube. But this review did indicate that patients benefit from EDR in terms of CR-POPF, morbidity and intra-abdominal infection. EDR was recommended for low/intermediate risk patients.