bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Health assessment of nesting loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) in one of their largest rookeries (central eastern Florida coast, USA)
Authors: Stacy Nicole I , Smith Rachel , Sullivan Kathleen E , Nelson Jr Steven E , Nolan Elizabeth C , De Voe Ryan S , Witherington Blair E , Perrault Justin R 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Reproduction is a physiologically demanding process for sea turtles. Health indicators, including morphometric indices and blood analytes, provide insight into overall health, physiology and organ function for breeding sea turtles as a way to assess population-level effects. The Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge (ACNWR) on Florida’s central eastern coast is critical nesting habitat for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), but health variables from this location have not been documented. Objectives of the study were to (1) assess morphometrics and blood analyte data (including haematology, plasma biochemistry, protein electrophoresis, β-hydroxybutyrate, trace nutrients, vitamins and fatty acid profiles) from loggerheads nesting on or near the beaches of the ACNWR, (2) investigate correlations of body condition index (BCI) with blood analytes and (3) analyse temporal trends in morphometric and blood analyte data throughout the nesting season. Morphometric and/or blood analyte data are reported for 57 nesting loggerheads encountered between 2016 and 2019. Plasma copper and iron positively correlated with BCI. Mass tended to decline across nesting season, whereas BCI did not. Many blood analytes significantly increased or decreased across nesting season, reflecting the catabolic state and haemodynamic variations of nesting turtles. Twenty-three of 34 fatty acids declined across nesting season, which demonstrates the physiological demands of nesting turtles for vitellogenesis and reproductive activities, thus suggesting potential utility of fatty acids for the assessment of foraging status and phases of reproduction. The findings herein are relevant for future spatiotemporal and interspecies comparisons, investigating stressor effects and understanding the physiological demands in nesting sea turtles. This information provides comparative data for individual animals in rescue or managed care settings and for assessment of conservation strategies.
Spatiotemporal EP4–fibulin-1 expression is associated with vascular intimal hyperplasia
Authors: Okumura Shigekuni , Oka Sayuki , Sasaki Takako , Cooley Marion A , Hidaka Yuko , Inoue Hana , Nishijima Hitoshi , Ohno Shin-Ichiro , Tanifuji Shota , Kaneko Mari , Abe Takaya , Kuroda Masahiko , Yokosuka Tadashi , Breyer Richard M , Homma Hiroshi , Kato Yuko , Yokoyama Utako 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Aims
Cyclooxygenase-2–derived prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is thought to promote vascular intimal hyperplasia (IH). It has been reported that the PGE2 receptor EP4 is upregulated in injured vessels and that EP4 signalling in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) promotes IH. In contrast, EP4 in endothelial cells has been demonstrated to restrain IH. We aimed to investigate spatiotemporal expression of EP4 and whether modulating EP4 signalling could be a viable therapeutic strategy.

Methods and results
We generated EP4 reporter mice (Ptger4-IRES-nlsLacZ) and found temporary but prominent EP4 expression in VSMCs of the proliferative neointima 2 weeks after femoral artery wire injury. Injury-induced IH was diminished in VSMC-targeted EP4 heterozygous deficient mice (Ptger4fl/+;SM22-Cre) 2 and 4 weeks after vascular injury compared to that in SM22-Cre, whereas injury-induced IH was exacerbated in VSMC-targeted EP4-overexpressing mice (Ptger4-Tg) compared to controls (non-Tg). We then investigated the downstream signalling of EP4 in VSMCs. Stimulation of EP4 increased mRNA and protein levels of the glycoprotein fibulin-1 in Ptger4-Tg VSMCs. Fibulin-1C recombinant proteins increased VSMC proliferation and migration through transforming growth factor (TGF)- β/Smad3, and EP4-mediated proliferation and migration were attenuated in Fbln1fl/fl;SM22-Cre VSMCs and in CRISPR/Cas9-mediated Fbln1 knockdown in Ptger4-Tg VSMCs. We generated multiple deletion mutants of fibulin-1C and found that EGF-like modules 6–8 appear to be involved in fibulin-1-mediated proliferation. Among binding partners of fibulin-1, extracellular matrix protein 1 (ECM1) was also upregulated by EP4 stimulation, and fibulin-1C and ECM1 proteins additively enhanced VSMC proliferation and migration. Injury-induced IH was attenuated in VSMC-targeted fibulin-1 deletion mice (Fbln1fl/fl;SM22-Cre) compared to Fbln1fl/fl. Furthermore, systemic EP4 antagonist administration reduced injury-induced IH in wild-type mice.

Conclusion
EP4 was upregulated in VSMCs of proliferative IH, and EP4 signalling promoted IH, at least in part through fibulin-1. An EP4 antagonist might be considered as a therapeutic strategy for IH.
Identification of sex attractants for 6 North American click beetle species in 4 tribes of the Elateridae
Authors: Millar Jocelyn G , Williams Livy , Serrano Jacqueline M , McElrath Thomas C , Zou Yunfan , Grommes-Yeager Anna C , Schoeppner Emma , Huseth Anders S , Kuhar Thomas P , Etzler Frank E , Hanks Lawrence M 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
We describe experiments that evaluated potential sex pheromone components for 6 North American click beetle species. In field trials in Illinois, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia, male beetles of 6 species were strongly attracted to geranyl butyrate (Agriotes insanus Candèze), 5-methylhexyl (Z)-4-decenoate (Elater abruptus Say), 11-dodecenyl butyrate (Melanotus ignobilis Melsheimer), and limoniic acid (Gambrinus griseus [Palisot de Beauvois], G. rudis [Brown], and G. plebejus [Say]). Collection of E. abruptus in South Carolina represents a new state record. For each species, capture rates varied geographically and temporally, possibly due to differences in local population densities and regional phenology, or the efficiency of different trap designs or trap placement. Structural similarities were observed between the tested attractants and previously identified pheromones of closely related species. For example, males of A. insanus were attracted to geranyl butyrate, analogous to the terpenoid ester pheromones of a number of European congeners. The attractant for E. abruptus, 5-methylhexyl (Z)-4-decenoate, is an analog of the pheromone of its European congener E. ferrugineus L., and the attractant for M. ignobilis, 11-dodecenyl butyrate, is an analog of attractants of European and Asian congeners. Attraction of the 3 Gambrinus species to limoniic acid parallels recent reports of attraction of the congeners G. seminudus (Van Dyke) and G. ursinus (Van Dyke) to this compound, which was originally identified from closely related species of Limonius. Full identifications of additional sex pheromones for elaterid species should provide a more complete picture of the diversities/similarities of the semiochemicals mediating reproductive behaviors of this biologically diverse and taxonomically complex group.
Temporal and spatial characteristics of forest pests in China and their association with large-scale circulation indices
Authors: Pang Yan , Shang Huadan , Ren Xueyu , Liu Mengfei , Wang Mei , Li Guohong , Chen Guofa , Wang Yue , Wang Hongbin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The increase in extreme climate events in recent years has been considered as an important factor affecting forest pests. Understanding the responses of forest pests to climate is helpful for revealing the trends in forest pest dynamics and proposing effective control measures. In this study, the relationship between the dynamics of all forest pests, independent forest diseases, and forest insect pests with the climate was evaluated in China, and the corresponding differences among forest pests, diseases and insect pests were assessed. Based on cross-wavelet transform and wavelet coherence analysis, the influences of teleconnection factors on the relationship between climate and forest pests were quantitatively analyzed to determine the roles of these factors. The results indicate that (i) three types of disasters in most parts of China have decreased from 1979 to 2019, while forest pests and forest insect pests in the southwestern region have increased; (ii) the relationship among Forest Pest Occurrence Area Rate and climate factors such as the Multivariate ENSO index, Southern Oscillation index, Arctic Oscillation (AO), Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO), and Sunspot is more significant; (iii) the cycle is short in most regions, with oscillations in 2–4 years bands being the main variation periods of disasters in East, Central, and South China; (iv) There is a significant correlation between climate and disasters in the periods of 2–4 or 8–10 years. The AO, AMO, and Sunspot were important driving factors affecting the relationship between climate and disasters. Specifically, the Sunspot had the greatest impact among these factors.
ChatGPT for L2 pronunciation teaching and learning
Authors: Mompean Jose A 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This article analyses how ChatGPT may be used in L2 pronunciation teaching and learning, especially when explicit pronunciation instruction is integrated into a communicative approach to language teaching. The possible use of ChatGPT for production practice, listening practice, and obtaining explanations and examples of target L2 features is discussed and exemplified. Limitations of the tool for pronunciation work are also discussed alongside some challenges that L2 learners and L2 teachers may face when using the tool. The article concludes that ChatGPT may be incorporated into teachers’ and learners’ array of technology tools for teaching or learning L2 pronunciation. However, ChatGPT should be regarded as a complementary tool to other pronunciation teaching and learning resources. Above all, ChatGPT cannot replace interaction through formal instruction with teachers and other L1 or L2 speakers of English in the development of L2 pronunciation.
Lifetime cumulative activity burden is associated with symptomatic heart failure and arrhythmic risk in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Binzenhöfer Leonhard , Clauss Sebastian , Strauß Katharina , Höpler Julia , Kraft Marie , Hoffmann Sabine , Brunner Stefan , Tomsits Philipp , Schüttler Dominik , Massberg Steffen , Kääb Stefan , Lüsebrink Enzo 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Aims
Sports-related physical activity is associated with an increased risk of ventricular dysfunction and arrhythmias in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). However, there are currently no standardized strategies for activity assessment. Thresholds for harmful levels of physical activity suggested by previous studies vary substantially and neither lifetime activity burden nor continuous modelling approaches were considered.

Methods and results
For this single-centre retrospective study, ARVC patients were interviewed to assess sports-related and non-sports-related physical activity between the age of 10 years and the last follow-up. Activity data were aggregated to the median metabolic equivalent of task—hours (METh) per week for each year. The association between cumulative physical activity burden and clinical study endpoints was investigated using Cox regression models. A total of 124 patients (median age: 39.5 years, 48% male) were included in the analysis, of whom 93 had been diagnosed with definite ARVC. Study participants reported a median overall activity of 202.3 METh/week, with 38.7 METh/week attributed to sports-related activity. In the continuous model, cumulative overall activity burden was associated with the occurrence of symptomatic heart failure [hazard ratio (HR) per 100 METh/week: 1.017, 95% CI (1.003, 1.032), P = 0.015], sustained ventricular tachycardia [HR: 1.021, 95% CI (1.006, 1.037), P = 0.007], and implantable cardioverter defibrillator interventions [HR: 1.017, 95%CI (1.000, 1.034), P = 0.048]. This finding was consistent when considering sports-related activity separately as a predictor variable, whereas the resulting hazard ratios did not show a significant association for non-sports-related physical activity.

Conclusion
This study demonstrates for the first time that cumulative physical activity as a continuous predictor variable is associated with symptomatic heart failure and arrhythmic risk in ARVC patients. Collaborative research is required in larger cohorts to investigate the influence of potential confounders on event occurrence and to develop threshold recommendations for clinical practice.
Genomic insights into symbiosis and host adaptation of sponge-associated novel bacterium, Rossellomorea orangium sp. nov
Authors: Umar Md , Merlin Titus Susan , Puthiyedathu Sajeevan Thavarool 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Sponge-associated microorganisms play vital roles in marine sponge ecology. This study presents a genomic investigation of Rossellomorea sp. MCCB 382, isolated from Stelletta sp., reveals insights into its adaptations and symbiotic roles. Phylogenomic study and Overall Genomic Relatedness Index (OGRI) classify MCCB 382 as a novel species, Rossellomorea orangium sp. nov. The genome encodes numerous carbohydrate metabolism enzymes (CAZymes), likely aiding nutrient cycling in the sponge host. Unique eukaryotic-like protein domains hint at potential mechanisms of symbiosis. Defence mechanisms include CRISPR, restriction–modification systems, DNA phosphorothioation, toxin–antitoxin systems, and heavy metal and multidrug resistance genes, indicating adaptation to challenging marine environments. Unlike obligate mutualists, MCCB 382 shows no genome reduction. Furthermore, the presence of mobile genetic elements, horizontal gene transfer, and prophages suggest genetic versatility, implying flexible metabolic potential and capacity for rapid adaptation and symbiosis shifts. MCCB 382 possesses six biosynthetic gene clusters for secondary metabolites, including both type II and III polyketide synthases (PKS), terpenes, (NRPS), NRPS-independent-siderophore, and lassopeptide. Further genome mining using BiGScape revealed four distinct gene cluster families, T2PKS, NRPS-independent-siderophore, lasso peptide, and terpene, presenting opportunities for novel compound elucidation. Our study reveals a symbiotic lifestyle of MCCB 382 with the host sponge, highlighting symbiont factors that aid in establishing and sustaining this relationship. This is the pioneering genomic characterization of a novel Rossellomorea sp. within the sponge Stelletta sp. holobiont.
Estimation of vaccine effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2-associated hospitalization using sentinel surveillance in South Africa
Authors: Chiwandire Nicola , Walaza Sibongile , von Gottberg Anne , Wolter Nicole , Du Plessis Mignon , Moosa Fahima , Groome Michelle J , Nel Jeremy , Variava Ebrahim , Dawood Halima , Makhasi Mvuyo , Feldstein Leora R , Marcenac Perrine , Lafond Kathryn E , Samuels Aaron M , Cohen Cheryl 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundCOVID-19 vaccine effectiveness (VE) studies leveraging systematic surveillance in sub-Saharan Africa are limited. We assessed the effectiveness of two vaccines (Pfizer BNT162b2 and Johnson & Johnson Ad26.COV2.S) against SARS-CoV-2-associated hospitalization in South African adults aged ≥18 years.MethodsWe conducted a test-negative case-control study using pneumonia surveillance data in South Africa. Inpatients with physician-diagnosed lower respiratory tract infection or suspected COVID-19, testing SARS-CoV-2 positive or negative from June 2021–March 2022, were cases or controls, respectively. Fully vaccinated individuals received one Ad26.COV2.S dose or two BNT162b2 doses ≥14-days before enrollment. VE was estimated using multivariable logistic regression for Delta- and Omicron BA.1/BA.2-predominant periods, stratified by age and HIV status.ResultsThe study included 925 cases and 1890 controls; 38 (4%) cases and 186 (10%) controls were fully vaccinated with BNT162b2, and 30 (3%) cases and 94 (5%) controls with Ad26.COV2.S. The vaccine effectiveness of BNT162b2 against SARS-CoV-2-associated hospitalization over Delta and Omicron BA.1/BA.2 periods was 91% (95% CI: 52%, 98%) and 33% (-16%, 86%), respectively. The vaccine effectiveness of Ad26.COV2.S against hospitalization over Delta and Omicron BA.1/BA.2 periods was 72% (-36% ,94%), and -19% (-130%, 39%), respectively. The vaccine effectiveness of BNT162b2 against hospitalization over the Delta period was 94% (50%, 99%) and 89% (27%, 98%) among adults aged ≥60 years and HIV-uninfected, respectively.ConclusionsThe BNT162b2 vaccine was effective against SARS-CoV-2-associated hospitalization during the Delta period for adults aged ≥18 years, ≥60 years and those HIV-uninfected. VE for Ad26.COV2.S was inconclusive, potentially due to limited sample size or residual confounding. These findings highlight the utility of sentinel surveillance for estimating VE.
Pharmacist supply of non-prescription sildenafil in Norway: a simulated patient mixed-method study
Authors: Syversen Hedda Tvete , Krogstad Tonje , Sletvold Hege 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Pharmacist supply of non-prescription sildenafil was initiated in Norway in 2019, and continuous evaluation of the service is warranted.

Objectives
To map how the service checklist is used, evaluate the counselling and information given in consultations, get an insight into pharmacist assessments during consultations, and explore the pharmacists’ experiences with the service.

Methods
A mixed-method approach of simulated patient visits with feedback combined with qualitative interviews was used. One 24-year-old simulated patient visited pharmacies requesting sildenafil in a scenario that ended before purchase. Visits were audio-recorded and evaluated. Post-visit, pharmacists were invited to get feedback and participate in an audio-recorded interview. Visits, feedback, and interviews were transcribed and analysed by descriptive statistics and systematic text condensation.

Key findings
Of 39 visits, 26 were analysed and 13 were excluded because the pharmacists did not give consent. Six (23%) pharmacists asked all the checklist questions, while 15 (58%) asked some of them. None of the pharmacists provided all the guideline counselling points. The counselling most provided was ‘See your general practitioner within 6 months for a health check’ (N = 7, 27%). Interviews (N = 19) elicited that pharmacists assessed the patients, with adaptations in the use of the checklist. Several barriers affecting the service were identified, including time pressure, pharmacist competence, and the task being uncomfortable and challenging.

Conclusions
Most pharmacists did not completely adhere to the mandatory checklist on non-prescription sildenafil and the counselling and information given were limited. The pharmacy sector must increase awareness of how best to assess and manage patients requesting non-prescription sildenafil.
A Transgenic Mouse With a Humanized B-Cell Repertoire Mounts an Antibody Response to Influenza Infection and Vaccination
Authors: Murugaiah Valarmathy , Watson Simon J , Cunliffe Robert F , Temperton Nigel J , Reece Stevo T , Kellam Paul , Tregoning John S 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The development of a universal influenza vaccine likely requires an understanding of previous exposure to influenza virus (through vaccination or infection) and how that shapes the antibody repertoire to vaccination, sometimes called original antigenic sin or antigenic imprinting. While animal models can have a much more defined exposure history, they lack a human B-cell repertoire. Transgenic mice with the complete human immunoglobulin locus enable studies of controlled infection history leading to human-like antibody evolution. Here we evaluated responses to influenza in the Intelliselect transgenic mouse (the Kymouse). We show the Kymouse is susceptible to disease following infection with either H1N1, H3N2, or B/Yamagata influenza viruses and that it induces a robust binding and neutralizing antibody response to all 3 strains of influenza virus. This study demonstrates that human B-cell repertoire mice can be used for influenza virus studies, providing a tool for further interrogation of the antibody response.
AHRQ’s digital healthcare research program: 20 years of advancing innovation and discovery
Authors: Valdez R Burciaga , Dymek Christine , Chaney Kevin , Lomotan Edwin A 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objectives
To reflect on the achievements of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s (AHRQ) Digital Healthcare Research Program over the past 20 years, evaluate its impact on US healthcare quality and safety, and outline current and future priorities for digital healthcare research and innovation.

Process
The article reviews key milestones in AHRQ’s digital healthcare initiatives, including its founding and its advances in telehealthcare and clinical decision support. It highlights AHRQ’s contributions to advancing technology integration in healthcare, promoting patient safety, and addressing equity gaps. The article also examines the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare delivery.

Conclusions
AHRQ’s Digital Healthcare Research Program has significantly contributed to improving healthcare quality. As digital technologies evolve, particularly with AI, the program remains focused on enhancing safety, equity, and efficiency in healthcare. Continued research and investment will be essential to maintaining progress and addressing new challenges.
Artificially reared ewes cannot be distinguished from natural reared ewes based on observed maternal behavior or lamb weaning weights
Authors: Posbergh Christian J , Miles Asha M , Pettifor Natasha L , Thonney Michael L 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Artificially rearing lambs is an important component of United States sheep production as some flocks select for increasing litter size to boost productivity. However, there is a conception among shepherds that artificially reared ewe lambs will ultimately result in poor mothers since they were not naturally raised. The objective of this study was to determine if differences in maternal behavior could be detected between ewes raised artificially and those raised naturally and if dam rearing type had an impact on lamb growth performance. Forty-eight ewes were enrolled comprised of 4 equal sized groups: artificially reared primiparous, naturally reared primiparous, artificially reared multi-parous, and naturally reared multi-parous. Ewes were observed using remote cameras to record maternal behaviors toward the lambs during and shortly after parturition. Behavior of 29 ewes during the first hour after parturition was analyzed. Independent multivariable regression models were evaluated for: proportion of time spent grooming, proportion of time spent helping the lambs nurse, number of helpful bouts, and the number of negative bouts. No statistically significant difference (P &lt; 0.05) was detected between artificially reared and naturally reared ewes for the proportion of time spent grooming and the proportion of time spent helping the lambs nurse. Historical flock data were utilized to evaluate lamb growth between artificially and naturally reared ewes. No detrimental associations between artificially reared ewes and lamb weaning weights were observed. This study shows that artificially reared ewes are no different in terms of mothering behaviors and may be used as potential replacement candidates.