bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Revisiting the bucket model: Long‐term effects of rainfall variability and nitrogen enrichment on net primary production in a desert grassland
Authors: Brown Renée F. , Collins Scott L. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The predicted intensification of the North American Monsoon is expected to alter growing season rainfall patterns in the southwestern United States. These patterns, which have historically been characterized by frequent small rain events, are anticipated to shift towards a more extreme precipitation regime consisting of fewer, but larger rain events. Furthermore, human activities are contributing to increased atmospheric nitrogen deposition throughout this dryland region.

Alterations in rainfall size and frequency, along with changes in nitrogen availability, are likely to have significant consequences for above‐ground net primary production (ANPP) and plant community dynamics in drylands. The conceptual bucket model predicts that a shift towards fewer, but larger rain events could promote greater rates of ANPP in these regions by maintaining soil moisture availability above drought stress thresholds for longer periods during the growing season. However, only a few short‐term studies have tested this hypothesis, and none have explored the interaction between altered rainfall patterns and nitrogen enrichment.

To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a 14‐year rainfall addition and nitrogen fertilization experiment in a northern Chihuahuan Desert grassland to explore the long‐term impacts of changes in monsoon rainfall size and frequency, along with chronic nitrogen enrichment, on ANPP (measured as peak biomass) and plant community dynamics.

Contrary to bucket model predictions, small frequent rain events promoted comparable rates of ANPP to large infrequent rain events in the absence of nitrogen enrichment. It was only when nitrogen limitation was alleviated that large infrequent rain events resulted in the greatest ANPP. Furthermore, we found that nitrogen enrichment had the greatest impact on plant community composition under the small frequent rainfall regime.

Synthesis. Our long‐term field experiment highlights limitations of the bucket model by demonstrating that water and nitrogen availability sequentially limit dryland ecological processes. Specifically, our findings suggest that while water availability is the primary limiting factor for above‐ground net primary production in these ecosystems, nitrogen limitation becomes increasingly important when water is not limiting. Moreover, our findings reveal that small frequent rain events play an important but underappreciated role in driving dryland ecosystem dynamics.
Tracing the longitudinal role of orthographic knowledge in spelling development from primary to upper‐secondary school
Authors: Åsberg Johnels Jakob , Waldmann Christian , Levlin Maria 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundPhonological processing skills have been found to contribute to spelling development across different orthographies; however, less is known about the role of orthographic knowledge. This longitudinal study explores the contribution of phonological and orthographic knowledge to spelling development in a semi‐transparent orthography (Swedish) across a period of 10 years.MethodsA group of Swedish speaking children were assessed on phonological recoding (phonological choice‐task), orthographic knowledge (choice‐task) and spelling (dictation task) in primary school (grade 2, age 8, total N = 99), secondary school (grade 8, age 14, N = 99) and again in upper secondary school (year 2, age 17, N = 79). Furthermore, spelling in a natural writing assignment was collected in upper secondary school. Spelling scores from grade 8 (dictation) and year 2 in upper secondary school (dictation and text) were included as dependent variables in three sets of hierarchical regression analyses. In the first step spelling performance in grade 2 was included to control for the autoregressive effect. In the second step, orthographic knowledge and phonological recoding from grade 2 were entered into the model in order to test for the longitudinal prediction.ResultsTest scores within and across ages were significantly correlated in bivariate analysis. Regression analysis revealed that orthographic knowledge in grade 2 was a unique longitudinal predictor of spelling performance across time‐points (secondary and upper secondary school) and assessment formats (dictation and text), beyond the contribution of the control variables.ConclusionsThis study confirms the role of early orthographic knowledge in Swedish spelling development throughout the school years assessed in standardized dictation tasks as well as in naturalistic writing assignments.
A comparison of the original major depression inventory with a modified version: A Danish validation study
Authors: Pedersen Henrik Schou , Christensen Karl Bang , Prior Anders , Christensen Kaj Sparle 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe Major Depression Inventory (MDI) is a patient‐reported outcome measure used by general practitioners to assist with diagnosing and evaluation of the severity of a patient's depression. However, recent studies have questioned the structural validity of the MDI.ObjectivesWe proposed a modified version (mMDI) of the MDI with fewer response categories and four rephrased items and aimed to compare the psychometric properties of the changes in a joint cohort of patients from general practice and mental health associations.MethodsWe used Rasch analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and the area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) to assess the validity and reliability of the two versions. Equipercentile linking was used to compute cut‐off points for the mMDI.ResultsFor both versions, local dependence was found between the three item pairs (loss of interest, lack of energy), (lack of self‐confidence, feelings of guilt), and (concentration problems, feeling restless/slowed down). The mMDI displayed lower measurement error in the upper end of the scale and better item level fit for three of the four reformulated items compared to the MDI. For the MDI, 5.3% of the respondents gave improbable responses; the corresponding number was 3.4% for the mMDI. The mMDI displayed better fit to a one‐factor model compared to the MDI. When comparing the correlation of the scales with the WHO‐5 instrument, the corresponding AUROC estimates for the mMDI and MDI were found to be 0.93 (0.92; 0.96) and 0.91 (0.87; 0.94), respectively. The cut‐off points for mild, moderate, and severe depression in the mMDI were found to be 17, 20, and 23, respectively.ConclusionThe proposed changes of the MDI are psychometrically sound upgrades of the original.
Genetic variation reveals complex population structuring of Tomicus piniperda L. (Coleoptera, Scolytidae) in the UK: Implications for management of this important pest
Authors: de Becquevort Sophie , Mckeown Niall J. , Blake Max , Shaw Paul W. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Tomicus piniperda is a common pest of pine trees responsible for significant economic damage. Although the impact of T. piniperda on forestry is likely to increase in the future due to climate change, little is known about its dispersal within the United Kingdom (UK) or between continental Europe and the UK.
This study addressed these knowledge gaps using mitochondrial and microsatellite DNA markers.
Mitochondrial DNA revealed high levels of genetic diversity as previously reported for this species across Europe. Nuclear DNA diversity revealed two geographically incoherent groups (Scotland, Wales, Belgium and the Netherlands vs. England and Switzerland). These genetic patterns likely reflect a combination of historical gene flow, anthropogenic introduction and restricted contemporary gene flow between the UK and Europe.
Significant structure was found among UK samples suggesting T. piniperda might not disperse extensively between pine stands. This differs from widespread gene flow across continental Europe and may be due to the low percentage of land covered by forests in the UK in addition to the high fragmentation of its forest cover.
Genetic variation was higher among the Scottish samples compared to those from more southern clines, suggesting the potential proximity of Scotland to a Pleistocene glacial refuge for T. piniperda.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation via the hippocampal brain‐derived neurotrophic factor–tyrosine kinase receptor B pathway to affect sexual behavior and neuroplasticity in rapid ejaculation rats
Authors: Liu Qiushi , Wang Ming , Wang Weinan , Yue Shaoyu , Jannini Tommaso B. , Jannini Emmanuele A. , Jiang Hui , Zhang Xiansheng 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundPremature ejaculation (PE) is the most prevalent sexual dysfunction among men. Eejaculation involves a complex nervous mechanism in which the ejaculatory centers play a key role in modulating sperm emission. Although treatment possibilities span from psychotherapy to pharmacological approaches, results show inconsistent efficacy. In this context, the emergence of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) as a non‐invasive neuromodulatory approach represents a compelling avenue for potential therapeutic exploration.ObjectiveTo investigate whether high‐frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation can modulate the ejaculatory behavior of rats with rapid ejaculation by altering neurotransmitter levels and neuroplasticity in the hippocampus.MethodsRats have been screened for rapid ejaculation by observing behavioral indices of mating, and subsequently divided into two groups. The intervention group was administered with a 10 Hz rTMS stimulation, whereas the control group received a sham procedure. Upon the delivery of rTMS, we investigated ejaculation latency (EL), the hippocampal 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) concentration, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), synaptophysin (SYN), and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) expressions, as well as BDNF‐receptor tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB) pathway upregulation.ResultsAfter 14 days, EL was increased in the intervention group compared with the control group. 5‐HT concentration in the hippocampal region was increased, and high‐frequency rTMS activated the BDNF and TrkB pathways, including phosphorylation of cAMP response element‐binding protein (CREB), and upregulated the transcription and protein expression of SYN, and PSD95.ConclusionRTMS upregulates BDNF, SYN, and PSD95 expression through activation of the BDNF–TrkB pathway and increases brain 5‐hydroxytryptamine thereby regulating neuroplasticity and improving ejaculation.
Trends in the use of testicular prostheses in Germany: a total population analysis from 2006–2021
Authors: Aksoy Cem , Reimold Philipp , Karschuck Philipp , Groeben Christer , Koch Rainer , Eisenmenger Nicole , Thoduka Smita , Zacharis Aristeidis , Schmelz Hans , Huber Johannes , Flegar Luka 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIntroductionTesticular tumors are the most common malignancies in young adults and their incidence is growing. The implantation of a testicular prosthesis, for example, during orchiectomy is a standard procedure but its frequency in Germany is unknown. This study aims to analyze trends of testicular prosthesis implantation in recent years in Germany.Material and methodsThe nationwide German hospital billing database and the German hospital quality reports from 2006 to 2021 were studied.ResultsA total of 12,753 surgical procedures with implantation of testicular prosthesis and 1,244 procedures with testicular prosthesis explantation were included. Testicular prosthesis implantation increased in total from 699 cases in 2006 to 870 cases in 2020 (+11.4 cases/year; p < 0.001). The share of implantation of testicular prosthesis due to testicular tumor decreased from 72.6% in 2006 to 67.5% in 2020 (p < 0.001). The share of implantation due to gender affirming surgery increased from 6.8% in 2006 to 23.3% in 2020 (p < 0.001). The share of implantation due to testicular atrophy decreased from 11.4% in 2006 to 3.4% in 2020 (p < 0.001). Simultaneous implantation of testicular prosthesis during orchiectomy for testicular cancer increased from 7.8% in 2006 to 11.4% in 2020 (p < 0.001). In 2006, 146 hospitals (85%) performed < 5 testicular prosthesis implantation, while 20 hospitals (12%) performed 5–15 implantation procedures and 6 hospitals (3%) performed > 15 testicular implantation surgeries. In 2021, 115 hospitals (72%) performed < 5 testicular prosthesis implantation, while 39 hospitals (25%) performed 5–15 implantation procedures and 5 hospitals (3%) performed > 15 testicular implantation surgeries.ConclusionThis study shows that implantation of testicular prostheses is steadily increasing. Explantation rates are low. Besides testicular cancer transgender surgeries were the main driver for increasing case numbers in recent years.
Design and preparation of an artificial vascular scaffold with internal surface modification
Authors: Jin Wenyu , Liu Huanbao , Nie Ping , Li Zihan , Cheng Xiang , Jiao Kunpeng , Zhao Guangxi , Zheng Guangming 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundAdvances in regeneration methods have brought us improved vascular scaffolds with small diameters (φ < 6 mm) for enhancing biological suitability that solve their propensity for causing intimal hyperplasia post‐transplantation.MethodsThe correlation between the rehydration ratio of the hydrogel and its material concentration is obtained by adjusting the material ratio of the hydrogel solution. The vascular model with helical structure has been established and analyzed to verify the effect of helical microvascular structure on thrombosis formation by the fluid simulation methods. Then, the helical structure vascular has been fabricated by self‐developed 3D bioprinter, the vascular scaffolds are freeze‐dried and rehydrated in polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution.ResultsThe experimental results showed that the hybrid hydrogel had a qualified rehydration ratio when the content of gelatin, sodium alginate, and glycerol was 5, 6, and 3 wt%. The established flow channel model can effectively reduce thrombus deposition and improve long‐term patency ratio. After PEG solution modification, the contact angle of the inner wall of the vascular scaffold was less than 30°, showing better hydrophilic characteristics.ConclusionIn study, a small‐diameter inner wall vascular scaffold with better long‐term patency was successfully designed and prepared by wrinkling and PEG modification of the inner wall of the vascular scaffold. This study not only creates small‐diameter vascular scaffolds with helical structure that improves the surface hydrophilicity to reduce the risk of thrombosis but also rekindles confidence in the regeneration of small caliber vascular structures.
Functional studies with IgM and IgA immunoglobulins: binding to pIgR, FcαμR, FcμR, and CDC activities
Authors: Beyer Hanna , Sommerfeld Mark , Grandien Kaj , Faust Christine , Tillmann Bodo , Leuschner Wulf Dirk , Régnier‐Vigouroux Anne , Weil Sandra , Rao Ercole , Langer Thomas 
Published: January 2024

IgMs are the first antibodies produced by the immune system upon encounter of a possible pathogen and are one of five antibody subclasses in humans. For IgG, the most intensively studied antibody class, the N‐linked glycosylation site located in the Fc‐domain is directly involved in high affinity binding to the respective receptors and initiation of corresponding immune response. IgM molecules have five N‐glycosylation sites and one N‐glycosylation site in the J‐chain, which can be incorporated in IgM or IgA molecules. There is only limited knowledge available concerning the function of these N‐glycosylations in IgMs. To address this question, we produced IgM molecules lacking a particular N‐glycosylation site and tested these variants as well as IgA molecules for binding to the known receptors: the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR), the dual receptor for IgA and IgM, FcαμR, and the specific receptor for IgM, FcμR. The single glycosylation sites did not show an impact on expression and multimerization, except for variant N402Q, which could not be expressed. In SPR measurements, no major impact on the binding to the receptors by particular glycosylation sites could be detected. In cellular assays, deglycosylated variants showed some alterations in induction of CDC activity. Most strikingly, we observed also binding of IgA to the FcμR in the same affinity range as IgM, suggesting that this might have a physiological role. To further substantiate the binding of IgA to FcμR we used IgA from different origins and were able to confirm binding of IgA preparations to the FcμR.
Shades of Grey—The brain in TTP
Authors: Dutt Tina , Toh Cheng‐Hock 
Published: January 2024

In their paper, Hannan et al. suggest that new approaches to the management of the acute and remission phases of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura should be considered to address white matter changes seen in patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging. Timely intervention may have significant implications for the long‐term physical and mental health of patients.Commentary on: Hannan et al. Cognitive decline in thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura survivors: The role of white matter health as assessed by MRI. Br J Haematol 2024;204:1005‐1016.
I am not going to lie; some people do not even want to talk: Co‐design with vulnerable groups affected by child criminal exploitation
Authors: Maxwell Nina , Corliss Cindy 
Published: January 2024

AbstractCo‐production values lived experience as it promotes individuals as assets and offers insight where little is known about a problem. This paper critically considers the pragmatic approach to co‐design adopted in Wales with young people and parents affected by child criminal exploitation during the COVID‐19 pandemic. It suggests that combining co‐design with data collection facilitated the recruitment, sensitisation and facilitation of vulnerable groups. By placing informed consent at the forefront of co‐design, young people and parents decided how they wanted their voices heard. Further, combining data gathering with co‐design contextualised solution development within their lived experiences. However, embedding these solutions into policy and practice remains subject to existing power imbalances.
Irritable bowel syndrome worsens faecal incontinence after primary repair of major obstetric anal sphincter injuries
Authors: Sarofim Mina , Slaar Annelie , Dermout Sylvia , den Boer Frank , Engel Alexander 
Published: January 2024

AbstractAimObstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) occur in approximately 3%–6% of vaginal deliveries and are the leading risk factor for late‐onset faecal incontinence, which is an underdiagnosed pathology. The aim of this work was to use a validated scoring system to quantify the effect of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) on the severity of faecal incontinence symptoms after primary repair of major OASIS (Grade IIIb–IV).MethodA prospective cohort study was performed on all women who underwent primary repair of major OASIS over a 6‐year period. They were assessed with ultrasonography within 12 weeks. Two control groups (who did not have OASIS) were women who underwent elective caesarean section and primigravid women. Questionnaires were sent at least 12 months after delivery, or at first consultation for primigravids, which generated the main outcome measures: Cleveland Clinic faecal incontinence severity scores and the presence of IBS based on Rome III criteria.ResultsThere was a total of 211 patients included in the three groups and the mean follow‐up time was 26 months after sphincter repair. Ultrasonographic sphincter defects were detected in 37% but did not affect the faecal incontinence score (p = 0.47), except in patients with IBS. Within each group, patients with IBS had significantly worse faecal incontinence than those without. Women with both OASIS and IBS had the most severe faecal incontinence scores.ConclusionOASIS has a limited negative effect on faecal incontinence, independent of whether residual ultrasonographic sphincter defects are present. However, the presence of IBS has a significant compounding effect on faecal incontinence in OASIS patients. The effect of IBS on faecal incontinence is also notable in caesarean section patients and primigravids, suggesting that IBS is an independent risk‐factor that should have its place in predelivery assessment and counselling.
Is proctoscopy sufficient for the evaluation of colorectal anastomosis prior to ileostomy reversal? A nationwide retrospective analysis of the Italian Society of Surgical Oncology Colorectal Cancer Network Collaborative group (SICO‐CCN)
Authors: Manigrasso Michele , Degiuli Maurizio , Maione Francesco , Venetucci Pietro , Roviello Franco , De Palma Giovanni Domenico , Milone Marco ,   SICO‐CCN Collaborative Group
Published: January 2024

AbstractAimSeveral methods for assessing anastomotic integrity have been proposed, but the best is yet to be defined. The aim of this study was to compare the different methods to assess the integrity of colorectal anastomosis prior to ileostomy reversal.MethodA retrospective cohort analysis on patients between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2020 with a defunctioning stoma for middle and low rectal anterior resection was performed. A propensity score matching comparison between patients who underwent proctoscopy alone and patients who underwent proctoscopy plus any other preoperative method to assess the integrity of colorectal anastomosis prior to ileostomy reversal (transanal water‐soluble contrast enema via conventional radiology, transanal water‐soluble contrast enema via CT, and magnetic resonance) was performed.ResultsThe analysis involved 1045 patients from 26 Italian referral colorectal centres. The comparison between proctoscopy alone versus proctoscopy plus any other preoperative tool showed no significant differences in terms of stenoses (p = 0.217) or leakages (p = 0.103) prior to ileostomy reversal, as well as no differences in terms of misdiagnosed stenoses (p = 0.302) or leakages (p = 0.509). Interestingly, in the group that underwent proctoscopy and transanal water‐soluble contrast enema the comparison between the two procedures demonstrated no significant differences in detecting stenoses (2 vs. 0, p = 0.98), while there was a significant difference in detecting leakages in favour of transanal water‐soluble contrast enema via CT (3 vs. 12, p = 0.03).ConclusionsWe can confirm that proctoscopy alone should be considered sufficient prior to ileostomy reversal. However, in cases in which the results of proctoscopy are not completely clear or the surgeon remains suspicious of an anastomotic leakage, transanal water‐soluble contrast enema via CT could guarantee its detection.