bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Internal drivers of the global pandemic of the Omicron variants of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Niu Yilin , Quan Wuxiu , Li Yunyi , Chen Ziying , Gao Yunfei 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe high transmissibility of the Omicron variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 continues to impose a significant burden on public health systems worldwide. Continuous mutations in the virus challenge the efficacy of vaccines and prior immunity from other variants, posing a severe threat to human health. Therefore, there is an urgent need to predict mutations of the Omicron variants and identify key factors influencing their spread. This study investigated critical amino acid mutations of the Omicron variants using epidemiological data and the mechanisms underlying their transmission. The aim was to understand the key factors driving the spread of the Omicron variants and provide insights for effective control and prevention strategies.MethodsA total of 488,646 Omicron cases recorded between December 2021 and February 2023 were analyzed using a sliding time window and the Epi Score model, which has high accuracy for the identification of mutation sites. MutPred2, PolyPhen2 and VarSite tools were used to predict future mutations and identify factors driving the prevalence of the Omicron variants.ResultsEpi Scores showed fluctuating patterns at mutation sites, highlighting N969K, Y505H, N764K, T478K, and S371F mutations on the spike protein as significant for future prevention efforts. The spread of the Omicron variants was linked to changes in the viral entry pathway and improved angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) binding and immune evasion tactics.ConclusionsThe findings of this study reveal trends in the evolution of the Omicron variants, including altered cell entry, increased affinity for ACE2, and evasion of the immune system. These factors are critical for understanding the global spread of the Omicron variants and developing effective control strategies.
Genetic testing and new variants in diagnosis of congenital ichthyoses
Authors: Salo Milja , Kimpimäki Teija , Huhtala Heini , Saarela Tanja 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of this study was to evaluate how diagnostic practice in congenital ichthyoses has evolved during the years 2000–2020 and what kind of gene variants of congenital ichthyosis have been found.MethodsThe study cohort of this register‐based research consisted of a total of 88 patients, whose diagnostic testing was conducted, and ichthyosis diagnoses set at the Department of Dermatology and the Department of Clinical Genetics at Tampere University Hospital during the years 2000–2020.ResultsDiagnosis of ichthyosis was confirmed with genetic testing in 33 cases, and with conventional diagnostic methods, such as clinical findings, skin biopsy and family history of ichthyoses, in 55 cases. We observed four novel variants in patients with the clinical diagnoses of congenital ichthyoses.ConclusionWhen genetic testing became available, it was offered primarily to patients with severe forms of ichthyosis. During the study period next‐generation sequencing became the genetic testing method of choice providing new opportunities in diagnostics.
The relationship between arthritis and nocturia among adults under 60: A cross‐sectional study based on National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Tang Siyuan , Zhang Cunming , Feng Senqiang 
Published: August 2024

AbstractObjectiveThis study aims to investigate how arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, affects the incidence of nocturia in adults aged 20–59.MethodsThis study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2005 to 2020, involving 18 745 adults aged 20–59. Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, was considered as the exposure factor, with nocturia as the outcome variable. We first compared the baseline characteristics of individuals with and without nocturia. The impact of arthritis on nocturia was assessed using weighted multivariate logistic regression models. To ensure the stability of the results, propensity score matching analysis and subgroup analyses were conducted.ResultsThe incidence of nocturia was approximately 22.31%, and the incidence of arthritis was about 15.32% (2871/18 745), with osteoarthritis accounting for 35.49% (1019/2871) and rheumatoid arthritis accounting for 20.20% (580/2871). Adjusted multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the risk of nocturia was increased by arthritis (odds ratio [OR] = 1.45, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28–1.65, p < 0.0001), including osteoarthritis (OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.18–1.78, p < 0.001) and rheumatoid arthritis (OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.14–2.00, p = 0.004). After propensity score matching using nearest neighbor methods at a 1:1 ratio, this relationship still exists. Subgroup analyses showed no significant differences in the interactions between arthritis and the risk of nocturia across various factors, such as age, family income to poverty ratio, education level, body mass index, smoking status, hypertension, and diabetes. However, significant differences were observed across different sex groups and sleep trouble groups.ConclusionsThis study revealed that arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, increased the risk of nocturia in adults under the age of 60.
Event‐triggered optimal control based on prescribed performance for a two‐link robotic manipulator
Authors: Chen Xinying , Su Baili 
Published: August 2024

SummaryIn this article, an event‐triggered optimal control method based on prescribed performance is investigated for a constrained two‐link robotic manipulator system. To satisfy the performance constraints of the system, an equated error model of the dynamics model is established by means of two auxiliary functions and the prescribed performance technique. A predictive controller based on an adaptive event triggering mechanism is obtained by solving a constraint optimization problem for this transformed error model, and the triggering threshold can be adjusted based on real‐time changes of the system. This controller realizes the tracking of the joint angle with the desired angle and meets the prescribed performance conditions. Finally, the control algorithm is shown to be an effective method for improving control performance through numerical simulations and comparison with other prescribed performance functions.
Factors Associated with HPV Vaccination Among Middle‐Aged Adults in the United States
Authors: Gallagher Tyler J. , Chwa Jason , Lin Matthew E. , Kokot Niels C. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo examine prevalence of partial and complete HPV vaccination among middle‐aged adults and factors associated with vaccination status.Study DesignNationally representative cross‐sectional survey.SettingUnited States.MethodsCohort includes adults aged 30 to 44 years from 2018 to 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey who completed questions about HPV vaccination status. Survey‐weighted multivariable logistic regression was utilized to explore factors associated with partial and complete HPV vaccination status.ResultsIn this nationally representative cohort of 26,470 US middle‐aged adults, 15.8% [95% confidence interval [CI]: 15.1%‐16.6%] reported any HPV vaccination, and 6.5% [95% CI: 6.0%‐7.0%] reported complete HPV vaccination. On multivariable regression, younger age, female sex, residence in the West or Northeast, higher educational attainment, unmarried status, having a personal healthcare provider, and gay or lesbian sexual orientation were associated with increased likelihood of vaccination. Race was variably associated with vaccination status. Annual income, insurance status, cancer history, head and neck cancer history, and time of last physician checkup were not associated with HPV vaccination status.ConclusionHPV vaccination among middle‐aged adults who were not previously vaccinated should be based on risk for new HPV infection and possible benefits of vaccination. While our analysis shows that consideration of personal factors likely plays a role in HPV vaccination in this cohort, we also find that gaps in vaccination may exist due to other socioeconomic disparities between sexes, educational attainment levels, racial/ethnic groups, geographic regions, and access to a personal healthcare provider. These factors' influence suggests potential room for improved public health measures.
Adapting sigmoid functions for hydrogel swelling curve prediction with neural networks
Authors: Wang Yawen , Ehrenhofer Adrian , Wallmersperger Thomas 
Published: August 2024

AbstractStimuli‐responsive hydrogels are representatives of smart materials with enormous swelling capability. The prediction of discrete hydrogel swelling states by artificial neural network based on the processing parameters has been realized in our previous work. In the current study, we explore ways to enhance the prediction capabilities by integrating physical information of the swelling curves to the model: Instead of predicting discrete swelling states, we predict the mathematical parameters of the continuous swelling curve. We therefore assume that the swelling behavior of hydrogels is consistent with a sigmoidal tanh function, based on their physical properties. After predicting the parameters of the sigmoidal function with the trained model, we analyze the prediction accuracy in comparison to the initial discrete prediction. Moreover, the new approach then allows us to physically interpret the different material properties, which denote sensitivity, maximum achievable differential swelling, and the position of the reference point for derivation of a material model.
The relational nature of citizen science
Authors: Moon Katie , Yates Sophie , Callaghan Corey T. , Thompson Maureen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Most citizen science research inherently separates the observer (citizen science participant) from the observation (e.g. data point), placing artificial boundaries around what matters and how it comes to matter. We apply three elements of the philosophical framework of agential realism to reveal a more complex picture of how data arise within citizen science programmes, and its meaning to both the practice of science and the citizen science participant: ‘intra‐action’ (all entities have agency and are entangled with one another); ‘material becoming’ (what comes to matter); and ‘responsibility’ (accountability for what comes to matter and what is excluded from mattering).

We draw on a case study of FrogID—an Australia‐wide citizen science program focused on calling frogs, with over 42,000 participants and over 1 million frog records. We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 30 FrogID users, completing two rounds of thematic and relational coding.

Our findings reveal that as a consequence of their recording behaviours, FrogID participants become increasingly entangled with the nocturnal environment, with sound and with their own self. Expanding and reciprocal relationships and experiences shape the nature and frequency of their recordings.

Second, meaning influences what comes to matter (i.e. what is recorded and submitted) for FrogID participants. We reveal meaning related to feedback (recognition and thus reciprocity), others (social networks and participation with family and friends) and the self (physical and mental well‐being and identity formation/becoming). These different forms of meaning influenced engagement with app use.

Third, participants communicated responsibilities related to their involvement in citizen science, including responsibilities to create knowledge (e.g. longitudinal data collection), to conserve (e.g. actively conserving frog, formally committing areas to conservation) and to educate self and others (e.g. skills and competencies required for environmental action).

Synthesis and applications: By recognizing a more comprehensive set of intra‐actions, beyond the observer and the observation, agential realism can reveal when, why and how citizen science observations are made; what observations come to matter and why; and how people can create a more just world. Agential realism can shape how citizen science participation, retention and biodiversity data generation are founded. We propose three opportunities for citizen science programs based on these findings.

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The neglected importance of managing biological invasions for sustainable development
Authors: Lenzner Bernd , García‐Rodríguez Adrián , Colling Gilles , Dullinger Stefan , Fugger Julia , Glaser Michael , Hennenfeind Jennifer H. , Kaplan Ekin , Liu Daijun , Omer Ali , Pauchard Aníbal , Roy Helen E. , Schernhammer Tobias , Schertler Anna , Stoett Peter , Tedeschi Lisa , Vorstenbosch Tom , Wessely Johannes , Essl Franz 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Biological invasions have substantial and rising social‐ecological impacts threatening human livelihoods and communities and hampering progress towards a just and equitable world.

Currently, biological invasions are not adequately recognised and included in the UN Agenda 2030.

Using a literature review conducted in Web of Science, we highlight the bias in available literature of biological invasions related to the UN Agenda 2030 and its Sustainable Development Goals. We find abundant scientific literature towards environmental and biodiversity related sustainability targets while other especially provisioning targets are less well represented.

Subsequently, we discuss the risks of neglecting biological invasions within sustainable development and how invasive alien species can have changing and adverse effects through time counteracting the intended benefits at the time of introduction.

Finally, we provide key recommendations for action at the international scale to ensure that biological invasions are adequately considered in sustainable development. Those recommendations include (1) acknowledgement of biological invasions as a key threat to sustainable development, (2) a call for stronger multilateral exchange under the umbrella of an adequately financed coordinating body and (3) appropriate implementation and resource provisioning for international monitoring, data infrastructure, data exchange and use of adequate indicators of biological invasions to streamline decision making based on a solid evidence base.

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Venous thromboembolism in transgender and gender non‐binary youth is rare and occurs in the setting of secondary risk factors: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Baskaran Charumathi , Roberts Stephanie A. , Barrera Ellis , Pilcher Sarah , Kumar Riten 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) with gender‐affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) in transgender and gender non‐binary (TNB) youth is unclear.ObjectiveTo identify the rate of VTE in a cohort of TNB youth followed in the transgender health clinic at Boston Children's Hospital, and to investigate the impact of congenital thrombophilia diagnosis on the use of GAHT.MethodsICD‐9 and ICD‐10 codes were used to identify eligible individuals, defined as (i) having a diagnosis of gender dysphoria and (ii) venous thromboembolism (VTE). Data were abstracted from a review of medical records. A second data query assessed TNB individuals who had an associated thrombophilia diagnosis.ResultsThe primary analysis included 1860 individuals. Total 942 individuals (50.6%) had started GAHT at the time of data analysis. Mean age (±SD) at GAHT initiation was 16.8 (±1.9) years. Five thrombotic events were identified in three (0.13%) individuals, all in the setting of additional VTE risk factors. Only two of five thrombotic events occurred while receiving GAHT. The rate of VTE in the GAHT cohort did not statistically differ from the rate of VTE in the non‐GAHT cohort (0.1% vs. 0.2%, p = .62). Of the 10 individuals diagnosed with a congenital thrombophilia, two transmasculine individuals received prophylactic anticoagulation prior to GAHT. No VTE has been reported to date in this cohort.ConclusionsIn our cohort, VTE was rare in the TNB youth and was not associated with GAHT use. TNB youth with congenital thrombophilia have not developed VTE in the setting of GAHT use to date.
Effects of light regimes on circadian gene co‐expression networks in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Rivière Quentin , Raskin Virginie , de Melo Romário , Boutet Stéphanie , Corso Massimiliano , Defrance Matthieu , Webb Alex A. R. , Verbruggen Nathalie , Anoman Armand D. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractLight/dark (LD) cycles are responsible for oscillations in gene expression, which modulate several aspects of plant physiology. Those oscillations can persist under constant conditions due to regulation by the circadian oscillator. The response of the transcriptome to light regimes is dynamic and allows plants to adapt rapidly to changing environmental conditions. We compared the transcriptome of Arabidopsis under LD and constant light (LL) for 3 days and identified different gene co‐expression networks in the two light regimes. Our studies yielded unforeseen insights into circadian regulation. Intuitively, we anticipated that gene clusters regulated by the circadian oscillator would display oscillations under LD cycles. However, we found transcripts encoding components of the flavonoid metabolism pathway that were rhythmic in LL but not in LD. We also discovered that the expressions of many stress‐related genes were significantly increased during the dark period in LD relative to the subjective night in LL, whereas the expression of these genes in the light period was similar. The nocturnal pattern of these stress‐related gene expressions suggested a form of “skotoprotection.” The transcriptomics data were made available in a web application named Cyclath, which we believe will be a useful tool to contribute to a better understanding of the impact of light regimes on plants.
A Situational Overview of Prenatal Screening Services in Bhutan
Authors: Dorjey Yeshey , Gyeltshen Tashi , Dorji Thinley , Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo , Mynak Mimi Lhamu , Gyamtsho Sonam , Tshomo Tashi , Dorji Phurb 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTPrenatal genetic testing is to determine the possibility of the fetus having a genetic aberration or birth defect. Prenatal screening consists of serum analytes screening with or without nuchal translucency (NT) scanning or with cell‐free DNA (CfDNA) screening. Prenatal screening is recommended for all pregnant women regardless of the duration of pregnancy and maternal age or baseline risk. It is not advisable to screen with serum analytes and CfDNA concurrently to avoid discordant results. In developed countries, prenatal testing has been a part of routine antenatal care for a long time with adopting newer methods of screening and testing. In Bhutan, since the integration of the Safe Motherhood Program into primary healthcare in 1994, there has been an unprecedented improvement in obstetric care services. Almost all pregnant women attend antenatal and postnatal care, and 98.5% of deliveries are attended by trained health workers. The maternal mortality has reduced to 53 in 2023 from 770 per 100,000 live births in 1984 and the neonatal dealth has reduced to 15.2 per 1000 live births in 2023. However, despite improvements in the care of pregnant women, many babies are detected with congenital anomalies, syndromes, and birth defects during the postnatal period. Bhutan, being an underdeveloped country, could not initiate any form of prenatal testing program except for the anatomical scanning performed at 18–22 weeks of gestation. Early ultrasound dating scans, limited anomaly scanning, and growth scanning are offered to all pregnant women. There is a need to start centralized prenatal testing services in Bhutan to provide a comprehensive package of obstetric care to pregnant women. In addition, legal rights for parents to terminate severely deformed fetuses or severe genetic diseases before 24 weeks of pregnancy need to be established.
If a fish comes out of the river and speaks, we should believe it: South African perspective on fish kills
Authors: Burnett Matthew J. , O'Brien Gordon C. , Blackmore Andrew , Wade Melissa , Downs Colleen T. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIn South Africa, fish kill events are increasing in frequency because of multiple stressors associated with managing natural resources. Despite the ecosystem services associated with fish, South Africa's progressive legislation towards environmental protection seems to negate the management of fish kills. In this study, we provide an overview of reports and regulations associated with acute pollution spills resulting in fish kill events in South Africa. In addition, we highlight the implication of these using a fish kill event from 2019 on the Msunduzi River, South Africa, as a case study. The fish kill on the Msunduzi River showed a decline in relative abundance by up to 41%, and its ecological condition was already impaired by poor management. The poor condition of the Msunduzi River has jeopardised the recovery of the fish populations, and intervention is needed to restore the fish population that includes species red‐listed as vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. We found that despite the severity of fish kills and the detriment to the fish fauna, including near‐threatened species, there is a general apathy, incapacity and lack of knowledge on managing fish kills in South Africa. In addition, although several legislated Acts have good intentions for protecting nature, they do not align and show that a fish kill is an afterthought rather than a need to prevent. Poor management practices have exacerbated this in an already stressed state from excessive use of environmental water. As a way forward, the alignment of the various Acts associated with various ministerial departments in South Africa is needed so that better protection of the environment may occur. Finally, we argue that the African proverb ‘If the fish comes out of the river to tell you that the crocodile has one eye, you should believe it’ is not considered when managing water resources and that with the present ecological state and water resource use there may be no fish to ‘come out of the water’ warning us that our water is unsafe even for human consumption and use.
Who will be prosocial consumers? The relationship between environmental value and sustainable consumption
Authors: Wong Wong Ming , Wang Yaobin , Su Wunhong 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis study explores who will be prosocial consumers based on the effect of consumers' environmental value on their sustainable consumption after the COVID‐19 lockdown. The study aims to examine (1) the relationship between environmental value and sustainable consumption and (2) compare the pathways between environmental value and sustainable consumption depending on delivery service usage frequency. This study unitizes Structural Equation Modeling to analyze (1) mediation and (2) multi‐group analysis by SmartPLS. Six hundred thirty‐seven respondents are collected from Mass Rapid Transit and Bangkok Mass Transit System stations in Bangkok and nearby shopping malls using a systematic random sample method. Affective and cognitive sustainable consumption mediates the relationship between consumers' egoistic and biospheric environmental concerns and their conative sustainable consumption. There is no significant difference between groups that utilize fewer or more delivery services on the path between environmental concerns and sustainable consumption. This study demonstrates that prosocial consumers with biospheric environmental concerns must engage in affective and cognitive sustainable consumption to engage in conative sustainable consumption. Prosocial consumers who emphasize the environment and sustainability tend to use delivery services less frequently.