bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Morphological variation in Schizothorax oconnori, Schizothorax waltoni (Teleostei: Cyprinidae: Schizothoracinae), and their natural hybrids from the middle Yarlung Zangbo River, Tibet
Authors: Ma Baoshan , Zhao Tianyi , Xu Bin , Zhong Liqiao , Wu Xiangxiang , Wei Kaijin , Zhang Zhiming , Li Yunfeng 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe morphological variation in Schizothorax oconnori, Schizothorax waltoni, and their natural hybrids was examined using conventional and image‐based analysis approaches. In total, 38 specimens of S. oconnori, 35 of S. waltoni, and 37 natural hybrids were collected from the Shigatse to the Lhasa section of the Yarlung Zangbo River during June and July 2021. A total of 21 morphometric, 4 meristic, and 27 truss variables were employed for the classification of S. oconnori, S. waltoni, and natural hybrids. Principal component analysis (PCA) and factor analysis (FA), as well as discriminant function analysis (DFA) and cluster analysis (CA), were conducted to identify differences based on traditional and truss measurements. Four principal components explained 75.92% of the variation among the morphometric characters, while five principal components accounted for 79.69% of the variation among the truss distances. FA results showed that factor 1 was associated with head shape, and factor 2 was associated with fins based on morphometric characters. Among the truss characters, factor 1 was related to head shape, and factor 2 was related to chest shape. In DFA, morphometric measurements achieved higher accuracy (100%) compared to truss distances (94.55%). The head morphology of hybrids exhibited intermediate traits between S. oconnori and S. waltoni. Both morphometry‐based and truss‐based clustering indicated that the morphology of natural hybrids leaned toward S. oconnori. In conclusion, the combination of morphometric and truss analysis is beneficial for classifying S. oconnori, S. waltoni, and their natural hybrids. The presence of natural hybrids could be considered an evolutionary response to the differentiation of nutritional and spatial niches in the middle Yarlung Zangbo River.
Population genetics and phylogeographic history of the insular lizard Podarcis lilfordi (Gunther, 1874) from the Balearic Islands based on genome‐wide polymorphic data
Authors: Otalora Katherin , Riera Joan Lluís , Tavecchia Giacomo , Rotger Andreu , Igual José Manuel , Trotta Jean‐Remi Paul , Baldo Laura 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIslands provide a great system to explore the processes that maintain genetic diversity and promote local adaptation. We explored the genomic diversity of the Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi, an endemic species characterized by numerous small insular populations with large phenotypic diversity. Using the newly available genome for this species, we characterized more than 300,000 SNPs, merging genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS) data with previously published restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing (RAD‐Seq) data, providing a dataset of 16 island populations (191 individuals) across the range of species distribution (Menorca, Mallorca, and Cabrera). Results indicate that each islet hosts a well‐differentiated population (FST = 0.247 ± 0.09), with no recent immigration/translocation events. Contrary to expectations, most populations harbor a considerable genetic diversity (mean nucleotide diversity, Pi = 0.144 ± 0.021), characterized by overall low inbreeding values (FIS < 0.1). While the genetic diversity significantly decreased with decreasing islet surface, maintenance of substantial genetic diversity even in tiny islets suggests variable selection or other mechanisms that buffer genetic drift. Maximum‐likelihood tree based on concatenated SNP data confirmed the existence of the two major independent lineages of Menorca and Mallorca/Cabrera. Multiple lines of evidence, including admixture and root testing, robustly placed the origin of the species in the Mallorca Island, rather than in Menorca. Outlier analysis mainly retrieved a strong signature of genome differentiation between the two major archipelagos, especially in the sexual chromosome Z. A set of proteins were target of multiple outliers and primarily associated with binding and catalytic activity, providing interesting candidates for future selection studies. This study provides the framework to explore crucial aspects of the genetic basis of phenotypic divergence and insular adaptation.
Genetic analysis of harvest samples reveals population structure in a highly mobile generalist carnivore
Authors: Fetherston Stuart C. , Lonsinger Robert C. , Perkins Lora B. , Lehman Chadwick P. , Adams Jennifer R. , Waits Lisette P. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractDelineating wildlife population boundaries is important for effective population monitoring and management. The bobcat (Lynx rufus) is a highly mobile generalist carnivore that is ecologically and economically important. We sampled 1225 bobcats harvested in South Dakota, USA (2014–2019), of which 878 were retained to assess genetic diversity and infer population genetic structure using 17 microsatellite loci. We assigned individuals to genetic clusters (K) using spatial and nonspatial Bayesian clustering algorithms and quantified differentiation (FST and ) among clusters. We found support for population genetic structure at K = 2 and K = 4, with pairwise FST and values indicating weak to moderate differentiation, respectively, among clusters. For K = 2, eastern and western clusters aligned closely with historical bobcat management units and were consistent with a longitudinal suture zone for bobcats previously identified in the Great Plains. We did not observe patterns of population genetic structure aligning with major rivers or highways. Genetic divergence observed at K = 4 aligned roughly with ecoregion breaks and may be associated with environmental gradients, but additional sampling with more precise locational data may be necessary to validate these patterns. Our findings reveal that cryptic population structure may occur in highly mobile and broadly distributed generalist carnivores, highlighting the importance of considering population structure when establishing population monitoring programs or harvest regulations. Our study further demonstrates that for elusive furbearers, harvest can provide an efficient, broad‐scale sampling approach for genetic population assessments.
Behavioural heterogeneity across killer whale social units in their response to feeding opportunities from fisheries
Authors: Auguin Erwan , Guinet Christophe , Mourier Johann , Clua Eric , Gasco Nicolas , Tixier Paul 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIntra‐population heterogeneity in the behavioural response of predators to changes in prey availability caused by human activities can have major evolutionary implications. Among these activities, fisheries, while extracting resources, also provide new feeding opportunities for marine top predators. However, heterogeneity in the extent to which individuals have responded to these opportunities within populations is poorly understood. Here, we used 18 years of photo‐identification data paired with statistical models to assess variation in the way killer whale social units within a subantarctic population (Crozet Islands) interact with fisheries to feed on fish caught on fishing gear (i.e., depredation behaviour). Our results indicate large heterogeneity in both the spatial and temporal extents of depredation across social units. While some frequently depredated on fishery catches over large areas, others sporadically did so and in small areas consistently over the years. These findings suggest that killer whale social units are exposed to varying levels of impacts of depredation, both negative (potential retaliation from fishers) and positive (food provisioning), on their life history traits, and may explain the contrasted demographic patterns observed within the declining population at Crozet but also potentially within the many other killer whale populations documented depredating on fisheries catches worldwide.
Alocasia sakonakhonensis (Araceae), a new species from northeastern Thailand
Authors: Promprom Wilawan , Munglue Phukphon , Chatan Wannachai 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAlocasia sakonakhonensis Chatan & Promprom (Araceae), a new species from northeastern Thailand, is described and illustrated. It is clearly different from other previously known species by leaves, spathe, ovary, sterile interstice, synandria, and appendix. Color illustrations, and a distribution map are provided, as well as comparative morphological characters about its similar species. The preliminary conservation status assessment of the new species was presented.
Soil nematode metacommunities in different land covers: Assessment at the local and regional scales
Authors: Niu Ximei , Wang Ping , Xie Zhijing , Gao Meixiang , Qian Siru , Saifutdinov Ruslan , Aspe Nonillon M. , Wu Donghui , Guan Pingting 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe metacommunity theory enhances our understanding of how ecological processes regulate community structure. Yet, unraveling the complexities of soil nematode metacommunity structures across various spatial scales and determining the factors influencing these patterns remains challenging. Therefore, we conducted an investigation on soil nematode metacommunities spanning from north to south in the Northeastern China. Our aim was to test whether nematode metacommunities were structured by different drivers under three land covers (i.e., farmland, grassland and woodland) at the local and regional scales. The results revealed that the Clementsian, Gleasonian and their quasi‐structures of soil nematodes collectively accounted for 93% of the variation across the three land covers at the local and regional scales. These structures suggest that the soil nematode metacommunities in the Northeast China responded to fluctuations in environmental gradients. At the local scale, metacommunities were primarily shaped by biological interactions. At the regional scale, environmental heterogeneity, dispersal limitation and biological interactions all contributed to nematode metacommunities. Meanwhile, biological interactions under three land covers were represented within different trophic groups, with plant parasites predominant in farmlands and bacterivores in grasslands and woodlands. In conclusion, the metacommunity structures of soil nematodes remain stable at different spatial scales and land covers. Biological interactions are widespread among nematodes regardless of changes in spatial scales and land covers. This study reveals the importance of nematode sensitivity to the environment and biological interactions in shaping the nematode metacommunities, potentially enhancing our understanding of the spatial patterns of nematode metacommunities.
Guidelines for the in vitro determination of anti‐inflammatory activity
Authors: Huang Xiujing , Li Yue , Sabier Maidinai , Si Jinping , Wang Pan , Shen Yanghui , Zhang Xinfeng , Liu Jingjing 
Published: May 2024

AbstractChronic inflammation contributes to various chronic diseases in humans. Currently used anti‐inflammatory drugs have several limitations and are not suitable for long‐term use. Anti‐inflammatory foods or extracts can prevent inflammation‐related diseases, offering a promising approach for the management of these pathologies. In vitro anti‐inflammatory experiments have the advantages of short experimental period and low cost for screening anti‐inflammatory foods or drugs. They measure pro‐inflammatory enzyme activity such as lipoxygenase (LOX) and cyclooxygenase (COX), and the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukins (IL). This article reviews in vitro assays used to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory effect, examining the effects of different inflammatory factors and the employed methods, and analyzing their principles, advantages, and disadvantages. Thus, it aims to provide guidelines for screening natural foods with anti‐inflammatory potential.
Safety and efficacy of adaptive atrial pacing regulated by blood pressure during low‐level exercise: a proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Burnam Michael , Develle Robert , Polosajian Leo , Nalbandian Shakeh , Ellenbogen Kenneth , Gang Eli 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAimsDespite half of all heart failure patients suffering from heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), treatment options are limited. This study aims to compare safety and efficacy of standard pacemaker programming (DDD or DDDR) and a novel pacing algorithm PressurePace™ (BaroPace Inc, Issaquah, WA, USA) which modulates atrial pacing rate based on blood pressure (BPAP).MethodsThis prospective, randomized, double‐blind, non‐significant risk proof of concept study was conducted at two large cardiology clinics in Los Angeles, California, USA. Subjects underwent two modified Bruce protocol graded treadmill exercise tests in which pacemaker programming was randomized to either standard programming (DDD or DDDR), or BPAP at least 1 week apart. Physiological measurements of heart rate (HR), and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) were collected at 2 min intervals. During the BPAP treadmill test, the pacemaker activity sensor was disabled. The PressurePace algorithm instructed the pacemaker technician to modify or leave unchanged the atrial pacing rate based on these BP measurements. Subjects and clinical staff were blinded to pacemaker programming, only the pacemaker technician was unblinded.ResultsTen subjects with HFpEF associated with hypertension who also had permanent dual‐chamber pacemakers, previously implanted for standard clinical indications, participated in the study. Mean age was 70.1 ± 6.8 years, left ventricular ejection fraction of 54.8 ± 1.9%. Exercise duration increased in all 10 subjects, when paced in the BPAP mode compared with standard pacemaker programming, showing a mean increase of 117 s (26%, P = 0.0016). The algorithm could adjust HR at each 2 min interval. The majority of subjects (60%) had their atrial pacing rate increased an average of 20% at t = 2 min. In the remaining 40% of subjects, the algorithm instructed HR to be unchanged. In two subjects, the pacing rate was not increased until t = 6 min. In contrast, subjects programmed to DDDR experienced an average of 45% increase in atrial pacing rate at t = 2 min. In the post‐treadmill recovery period, SBP was higher for subjects who underwent BPAP. This difference in SBP was most pronounced immediately post‐treadmill and diminished as subjects progressed through the 30 min recovery period. Statistical significance was achieved at t = 0, 20, and 30 min post‐treadmill.ConclusionsAn increase in exercise duration was reported in HFpEF subjects using a pacing algorithm that modulated HR based on BP compared with standard programming. These encouraging results form the basis for a larger, randomized cross‐over trial to confirm these initial observations, further characterize the safety, efficacy, and possible mechanisms of action in both acute and longer‐term treatment.
Balcinrenone plus dapagliflozin in patients with heart failure and chronic kidney disease: Results from the phase 2b MIRACLE trial
Authors: Lam Carolyn S.P. , Køber Lars , Kuwahara Koichiro , Lund Lars H. , Mark Patrick B. , Mellbin Linda G. , Schou Morten , Ely Pizzato Patricia , Gabrielsen Anders , Gasparyan Samvel B. , Ghiretti Alessandro , Hartleib‐Geschwindner Judith , Housler Greggory J. , Fanti Paolo , Leonsson‐Zachrisson Maria , McMurray John J.V. , Solomon Scott D. ,   for the MIRACLE Study Investigators
Published: May 2024

AimsMany patients with heart failure (HF) have chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may not tolerate mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists. We investigated the efficacy and safety of the novel mineralocorticoid receptor modulator balcinrenone in combination with dapagliflozin in a phase 2b study.Methods and resultsFrom January 2021 to October 2023, we randomized 133 adults with symptomatic HF, ejection fraction <60%, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥30 to ≤60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥30 to <3000 mg/g, to receive balcinrenone 15, 50 or 150 mg/day plus dapagliflozin 10 mg/day, or dapagliflozin 10 mg/day plus placebo, for 12 weeks. Enrolment was stopped early because of slow recruitment. Relative reductions in UACR from baseline to week 12 (primary endpoint) were not significantly different between the balcinrenone plus dapagliflozin groups versus dapagliflozin plus placebo. There was no clear balcinrenone dose–response relationship. There were possible dose‐dependent increases in serum potassium levels, reduced eGFR in the highest dose group, and non‐significant trends towards reduced N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide levels. Hyperkalaemia adverse events led to discontinuation in two participants receiving balcinrenone plus dapagliflozin and none in those receiving dapagliflozin plus placebo.ConclusionWhile the smaller than planned sample size limits interpretation, we did not see significant reduction in UACR in patients treated with balcinrenone plus dapagliflozin compared with dapagliflozin plus placebo.
Catalysing virtual collaboration: The experience of the remote TIES working groups
Authors: Meis M. , Pirani M. , Euan C. , Castruccio S. , Simmons S. , Stroud J.R. , Blangiardo M. , Wikle C.K. , Wheeler M. , Naumova E. , Bravo L. , Miller C. , Gel Y. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractDuring the COVID‐19 pandemic, the idea of collaboration and scientific exchange between members of the scientific community was enhanced by technology. Virtual meetings and work platforms have become common resources to continue generating research, partially replacing instances of joint in‐person work before, during or after a conference. The idea of teleworking played a fundamental role in remote collaboration groups within The International Statistical Society (TIES), a community of interdisciplinary scientists such as statisticians, mathematicians, meteorologists, and biologists, among others working on quantitative methods to enhance solutions to environmental problems. In 2021 the Society launched three working groups with the aim of improving networking across the Society's members and develop creative collaboration, while advancing statistical and computational methods motivated by real‐world driven applications in environmental research. Here, we provide insights from this virtual collaborative initiative.
Epilepsies with onset during the first year of life: A prospective study on syndromes, etiologies, and outcomes
Authors: Jonsson Henna , Gaily Eija , Stjerna Susanna , Joensuu Tarja , Johari Mridul , Lehesjoki Anna‐Elina , Linnankivi Tarja 
Published: May 2024

AbstractObjectiveInfantile seizures cause great concern for both doctors and parents. In addition to modern neuroimaging and genetics, clinical tools helpful in predicting the course of the disease are needed. We prospectively studied the incidence, electroclinical characteristics and etiologies of epilepsy syndromes with onset before the age of 12 months and looked for prognostic determinants of outcome by age 24 months.MethodsFrom February 2017 through May 2019, we recruited all eligible infants diagnosed with epilepsy at our unit. Data on electroclinical studies, genetic investigations and drug response were gathered prospectively. The infants were given a structured neurological examination (Hammersmith Infantile Neurological examination [HINE] and Griffiths scales) at predetermined intervals until age 24 months at which age neurocognitive evaluation with Bayley scales was performed.ResultsIncluded were 60 infants (27 female). The mean onset age of epilepsy was 5.3 (±2.5 standard deviation) months. The incidence of epilepsy in the population‐based cohort was 131 (95% confidence interval 99–172)/100 000. Epilepsy syndrome was identified in 80% and etiology in 58% of infants. Self‐limited infantile epilepsy was the second most common syndrome (incidence 18/100 000) after infantile epileptic spasms syndrome. PRRT2 was the most common monogenic cause. At age 24 months, 37% of the infants had drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE) and half had a global developmental delay (GDD). Abnormal first HINE was the strongest predictor of GDD, followed by DRE and identified etiology. DRE was associated with structural etiology and GDD. Those with normal first HINE and good response to treatment had favorable outcomes, irrespective of the identified etiology.SignificanceOur results support a high incidence of self‐limited epilepsy in infancy and PRRT2 as the genetic cause in the first year of life. Notwithstanding the advances in etiological discovery, we want to highlight the importance of clinical evaluation as standardized neurological examination with HINE proved a valuable tool in prognostication.Plain Language SummaryOne in every 700–800 babies develop epilepsy within the first year after birth. Our study identified an epilepsy syndrome in 80% and the cause of epilepsy in 60% of the participants. By age 2 years, over one‐third of the children still experienced seizures, and almost half faced significant developmental delay. Structural brain abnormalities increased the likelihood of difficult epilepsy and developmental challenges. Babies whose epilepsy was caused by a gene defect varied widely in development and response to medications. Babies with normal neurological examination at first visit, especially if their seizures stopped quickly, had favorable development.
Do financial crises moderate the influence of stakeholder rights protection on M&A activity: The influence of institutional logics and power?
Authors: Very May‐Anne , Capron Laurence , Guillén Mauro 
Published: May 2024

AbstractResearch SummaryM&A represents a contested process of change in control influenced by two contending prevailing institutional logics: shareholder‐centered and labor‐oriented. These logics, whose respective power is influenced by national laws, shape mergers and acquisition (M&A) outcomes. Crises, like systemic financial crises, are periods during which these logics may be altered. This research examines how financial crises affect the positive (negative) relationship between the legal protection of shareholder (labor) rights and M&A activity in a country. Utilizing a dataset from financial services companies across 35 countries from 1990 to 2016, we find that financial crises significantly weaken the effects of both shareholder and labor rights on M&A transactions. Our findings emphasize the role of power dynamics amidst conflicting institutional logics in determining M&A outcomes during both crisis and non‐crisis periods.Managerial SummaryIn the world of mergers and acquisitions, the battle for control is influenced by two major opposing forces: shareholders and employees, with their power rooted in the country's laws. Countries with high protection of shareholder rights witness higher M&A activity compared to those more protective of labor rights. However, drawing from data covering financial services firms in 35 countries from 1990 to 2016, we discovered that financial crises tend to weaken the influence of both shareholder and employee rights on M&A deals. This insight highlights the importance of understanding the differences in the functioning of the M&A market across countries and the shifting power dynamics between shareholders and employees, especially in times of financial uncertainty, for those involved in planning and executing M&A strategies.