bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Skewed morph ratios lead to lower genetic diversity of the heterostylousPrimula verisin fragmented grasslands
Authors: Kaldra M. , Träger S. , Reinula I. , Keller B. , Conti E. , Aavik T. 
Published: April 2023

AbstractPopulations of heterostylous plant species are ideally composed of equal frequencies of two (distylous) or three (tristylous) morphologically different floral morphs. Intra‐morph incompatibility helps to avoid inbreeding and to maintain genetic diversity, supporting plant fitness and long‐term viability. Habitat fragmentation can lead to skewed morph ratios and thereby reduce the abundance of compatible mates. This, in turn, can result in a loss of genetic diversity. We tested whether the genetic diversity of heterostylous plants is affected by morph ratio bias using populations of the distylous grassland plantPrimula verisin recently fragmented grasslands.We recorded morph frequencies and population sizes in 30 study populations ofP. verison two Estonian islands characterised by different degrees of habitat fragmentation. Examining variation of thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and heterostyly‐specific genetic markers, we quantified overall and morph‐specific genetic diversity and differentiation in these populations.Morph frequencies deviated more in smaller populations. Skewed morph ratios had a negative effect on the genetic diversity ofP. verisin more fragmented grasslands. In the populations of better‐connected grassland systems, genetic differentiation among S‐morphs was higher than among L‐morphs.Our study shows that deviations from morph balance are stronger in small populations and have a negative impact on the genetic diversity of the distylous plantP. veris. Together with the direct negative effects of habitat loss and decreased population size on the genetic diversity of plants, morph ratio bias may intensify the process of genetic erosion, thus exacerbating the local extinction of heterostylous species.
Lassa fever vaccine candidates: A scoping review of vaccine clinical trials
Authors: Sulis Giorgia , Peebles Alexandra , Basta Nicole E. 
Published: April 2023

AbstractObjectiveLassa fever (LF) is caused by a viral pathogen with pandemic potential. LF vaccines have the potential to prevent significant disease in individuals at risk of infection, but no such vaccine has been licensed or authorised for use thus far. We conducted a scoping review to identify and compare registered phase 1, 2 or 3 clinical trials of LF vaccine candidates, and appraise the current trajectory of LF vaccine development.MethodWe systematically searched 24 trial registries, PubMed, relevant conference abstracts and additional grey literature sources up to 27 October 2022. After extracting key details about each vaccine candidate and each eligible trial, we qualitatively synthesised the evidence.ResultsWe found that four LF vaccine candidates (INO‐4500, MV‐LASV, rVSV∆G‐LASV‐GPC, and EBS‐LASV) have entered the clinical stage of assessment. Five phase 1 trials (all focused on healthy adults) and one phase 2 trial (involving a broader age group from 18 months to 70 years) evaluating one of these vaccines have been registered to date. Here, we describe the characteristics of each vaccine candidate and trial and compare them to WHO's target product profile for Lassa vaccines.ConclusionThough LF vaccine development is still in early stages, current progress towards a safe and effective vaccine is encouraging.
An R‐R‐type MYB transcription factor promotes non‐climacteric pepper fruit carotenoid pigment biosynthesis
Authors: Song Jiali , Sun Binmei , Chen Changming , Ning Zuoyang , Zhang Shuanglin , Cai Yutong , Zheng Xiongjie , Cao Bihao , Chen Guoju , Jin Dan , Li Bosheng , Bian Jianxin , Lei Jianjun , He Hang , Zhu Zhangsheng 
Published: April 2023

SUMMARYCarotenoids are major accessory pigments in the chloroplast, and they also act as phytohormones and volatile compound precursors to influence plant development and confer characteristic colours, affecting both the aesthetic and nutritional value of fruits. Carotenoid pigmentation in ripening fruits is highly dependent on developmental trajectories. Transcription factors incorporate developmental and phytohormone signalling to regulate the biosynthesis process. By contrast to the well‐established pathways regulating ripening‐related carotenoid biosynthesis in climacteric fruit, carotenoid regulation in non‐climacteric fruit is poorly understood. Capsanthin is the primary carotenoid of non‐climacteric pepper (Capsicum) fruit; its biosynthesis is tightly associated with fruit ripening, and it confers red pigmentation to the ripening fruit. In the present study, using a coexpression analysis, we identified an R‐R‐type MYB transcription factor, DIVARICATA1, and demonstrated its role in capsanthin biosynthesis. DIVARICATA1 encodes a nucleus‐localised protein that functions primarily as a transcriptional activator. Functional analyses showed that DIVARICATA1 positively regulates carotenoid biosynthetic gene (CBG) transcript levels and capsanthin levels by directly binding to and activating CBG promoter transcription. Furthermore, an association analysis revealed a significant positive association between DIVARICATA1 transcription level and capsanthin content. ABA promotes capsanthin biosynthesis in a DIVARICATA1‐dependent manner. Comparative transcriptomic analysis of DIVARICATA1 in Solanaceae plants showed that its function likely differs among species. Moreover, the pepper DIVARICATA1 gene could be regulated by the ripening regulator MADS‐RIN. The present study illustrates the transcriptional regulation of capsanthin biosynthesis and offers a target for breeding peppers with high red colour intensity.
So close, no matter how far: A spatial analysis of CO2 emissions considering geographic and economic distances
Authors: Bolea Lucía , Espinosa‐Gracia Adrián , Jimenez Sofía 
Published: April 2023

AbstractIn recent years, the effects of climate change have become a topic of growing interest in the literature. Many works claimed the importance of spillover effects while studying CO2 emissions. Most part of them considers these indirect effects from a geographical perspective. The reduction of transportation costs makes other factors more important. Thus, the main aim of this paper is to analyse the existence of spatial dependence, considering geographical and economic proximity and comparing both measures. Empirically, we make use of the World Input–Output database with a worldwide focus from 2000 to 2014. Based on an environmentally extended multiregional input–output model, we estimate the CO2 emissions embodied in the domestic production and international trade between countries. To analyse the dependence from both perspectives, we carry out a spatial econometric analysis and make use of two different spatial weight matrices. The results offer a new approach on this field, highlighting the importance of the spillover effects to explain the CO2 emissions of the local country, showing that economic proximity is even more important than geographical one.
A Robust Density-Based Approach to Production Data Analysis of Oil/Water Multiphase Flow System
Authors: Tran Kien , Garcez Jonathan , Ayala Luis F. 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
This paper presents a novel approach to estimate reserves of oil and water reservoirs undergoing boundary-dominated flow conditions in a simplified yet accurate manner. The methodology incorporates rescaled density-based exponential models and is based on the coupling of two-phase oil and water material balances with multiphase well deliverability equations. Current multiphase production data analysis methods employed for reserve calculations, including density-based approach, are subjected to the determination of saturation–pressure relationship, multiphase pseudo-pressure, and pseudo-time, as well as the iterative nature of its own algorithm. The herein proposed approach circumvents the need for pseudo-variables calculations, thus precluding the determination of saturation–pressure relationship and removing the iterative nature often present in state-of-the-art approaches. The proposed model is validated by comparing its predictions to numerical models with both constant and variable bottomhole pressure constrains, and has been found to match closely. For all cases, relative errors are found to be less than 1%.
Acute Ketone Monoester Supplementation Impairs 20-min Time-Trial Performance in Trained Cyclists: A Randomized, Crossover Trial
Authors: McCarthy Devin G. , Bone Jack , Fong Matthew , Pinckaers Phillippe J.M. , Bostad William , Richards Douglas L. , van Loon Luc J.C. , Gibala Martin J. 
Published: April 2023

Acute ketone monoester (KE) supplementation can alter exercise responses, but the performance effect is unclear. The limited and equivocal data to date are likely related to factors including the KE dose, test conditions, and caliber of athletes studied. We tested the hypothesis that mean power output during a 20-min cycling time trial (TT) would be different after KE ingestion compared to a placebo (PL). A sample size of 22 was estimated to provide 80% power to detect an effect size dz of 0.63 at an alpha level of .05 with a two-tailed paired t test. This determination considered 2.0% as the minimal important difference in performance. Twenty-three trained cyclists (N = 23; peak oxygen uptake: 65 ± 12 ml·kg−1 min−1; M ± SD), who were regularly cycling >5 hr/week, completed a familiarization trial followed by two experimental trials. Participants self-selected and replicated their diet and exercise for ∼24 hr before each trial. Participants ingested either 0.35 g/kg body mass of (R)-3-hydroxybutyl (R)-3-hydroxybutyrate KE or a flavor-matched PL 30 min before exercise in a randomized, triple-blind, crossover manner. Exercise involved a 15-min warm-up followed by the 20-min TT on a cycle ergometer. The only feedback provided was time elapsed. Preexercise venous [β-hydroxybutyrate] was higher after KE versus PL (2.0 ± 0.6 vs. 0.2 ± 0.1 mM, p < .0001). Mean TT power output was 2.4% (0.6% to 4.1%; mean [95% confidence interval]) lower after KE versus PL (255 ± 54 vs. 261 ± 54 W, p < .01; dz = 0.60). The mechanistic basis for the impaired TT performance after KE ingestion under the present study conditions remains to be determined.
Validity and Reliability of the V-Cut Dribbling Test in Young Basketball Players
Authors: Jòdar-Portas Anna , López-Ros Víctor , Prats-Puig Anna , Beltran-Garrido José V. , Madruga-Parera Marc , Romero-Rodríguez Daniel , Gonzalo-Skok Oliver , Sinclair Graham , Font-Lladó Raquel 
Published: April 2023

Purpose: Change of direction while dribbling appears to be of interest for on-court performance in basketball. The study aim was to assess the validity and reliability of the V-cut dribbling test (VcutBk) in young basketball players. Methods: Ninety-two young basketball players from 8 to 21 years old (74% male) were classified in relation to peak height velocity (PHV) offset. To examine validity and test–retest reliability, VcutBk was performed in 2 identical sessions separated by 1 week. Participants also performed the V-cut test and linear sprint test with and without dribbling to analyze correlations between tests in different somatic maturity stages. Results: The relationships of the VcutBk with the other tests and skill-time-related deficits were interpreted from large (r > .51) to very large (r > .71). The comparisons between pre-PHV and post-PHV groups of basketball players showed significant and large effect in the VcutBk (d = 2.04; mean difference = 2.59; 95% CI, 1.86 to 3.32). Also, significant main effects when comparing PHV groups were reported in all skill-time-related deficits (P < .001, , moderate to large effect size). Test–retest reliability and signal-to-noise ratio analysis did not show substantial between-trials differences in VcutBk. Reliability scores showed high intraclass correlation coefficient (.95) and low coefficient of variation (0.23%). Conclusions: The VcutBk seems to be a valid and reliable test to assess change of direction while dribbling. VcutBk performance and skill-time-related deficits seem to be sensitive to somatic maturity. Basketball coaches should consider the VcutBk to assess young basketball players.
Ammonoid extinction versus nautiloid survival: Is metabolism responsible?
Authors: Tajika Amane , Landman Neil H. , Cochran J. Kirk , Nishida Kozue , Shirai Kotaro , Ishimura Toyoho , Murakami-Sugihara Naoko , Sato Kei 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Understanding the mechanism of selective extinction is important in predicting the impact of anthropogenic environmental changes on current ecosystems. The selective extinction of externally shelled cephalopods at the Cretaceous-Paleogene (K-Pg) mass extinction event (ammonoids versus nautiloids) is often studied, but its mechanism is still debated. We investigate the differences in metabolic rate between these two groups to further explore the causes of selective extinction. We use a novel metabolic proxy—the fraction of metabolic carbon in the stable carbon isotope ratio of shell material (Cmeta)—to determine metabolic rate. Using this approach, we document significant differences in Cmeta among modern cephalopod taxa (Nautilus spp., Argonauta argo, Dosidicus gigas, Sepia officinalis, and Spirula spirula). Our results are consistent with estimates based on oxygen consumption, suggesting that this proxy is a reliable indicator of metabolic rate. We then use this approach to determine the metabolic rates of ammonoids and nautiloids that lived at the end of the Cretaceous (Maastrichtian). Our results show that the nautiloid Eutrephoceras, which survived the K-Pg mass extinction event, possessed a lower metabolic rate than co-occurring ammonoids (Baculites, Eubaculites, Discoscaphites, and Hoploscaphites). We conclude that the lower metabolic rate in nautiloids was an advantage during a time of environmental deterioration (surface-water acidification and resulting decrease in plankton) following the Chicxulub asteroid impact.
Rifampin urinary excretion to predict serum targets in children with tuberculosis: a prospective diagnostic accuracy study
Authors: Thomas Tania A , Lukumay Saning'o , Yu Sijia , Rao Prakruti , Siemiątkowska Anna , Kagan Leonid , Augustino Domitila , Mejan Paulo , Mosha Restituta , Handler Deborah , Petros de Guex Kristen , Mmbaga Blandina , Pfaeffle Herman , Reiss Robert , Peloquin Charles A , Vinnard Christopher , Mduma Estomih , Xie Yingda L , Heysell Scott K 
Published: April 2023

ObjectivePharmacokinetic variability drives tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes but measurement of serum drug concentrations for personalised dosing is inaccessible for children in TB-endemic settings. We compared rifampin urine excretion for prediction of a serum target associated with treatment outcome.DesignProspective diagnostic accuracy study.SettingInpatient wards and outpatient clinics, northern Tanzania.PatientsChildren aged 4–17 years were consecutively recruited on initiation of WHO-approved treatment regimens.InterventionsSamples were collected after directly observed therapy at least 2 weeks after initiation in the intensive phase: serum at pre-dose and 1, 2 and 6 hours post-dose, later analysed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for calculation of rifampin total exposure or area under the concentration time curve (AUC0-24); urine at post-dose intervals of 0–4, 4–8 and 8–24 hours, with rifampin excretion amount measured onsite by spectrophotometry.Main outcome measuresReceiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for percentage of rifampin dose excreted in urine measured by spectrophotometry to predict serum rifampin AUC0–24target of 31.7 mg*hour/L.Results89 children, 52 (58%) female, with median age of 9.1 years, had both serum and urine collection. Only 59 (66%) reached the serum AUC0–24target, reflected by a range of urine excretion patterns. Area under the ROC curve for percentage of rifampin dose excreted in urine over 24 hours predicting serum AUC0–24target was 69.3% (95% CI 56.7% to 81.8%), p=0.007.ConclusionsUrine spectrophotometry correlated with a clinically relevant serum target for rifampin, representing a step toward personalised dosing for children in TB-endemic settings.
Evaluation of age-banded dosing of oral paracetamol in hospitalised children: a retrospective analysis using clinical data in a tertiary paediatric hospital
Authors: Wright Kirstie , Craske Jennie , Gill Andrea , Jenson John , Arnold Philip 
Published: April 2023

ObjectiveTo evaluate age-banded dosing in paediatric inpatients by determining the proportion of patients whose dose would fall outside the therapeutic range (by weight).DesignA retrospective observational study. Weight and height measurements and details of hospital admissions were matched from the electronic patient record of a single, tertiary paediatric hospital. Dosage which would be given according to age-banded dosing was then compared with their weight.ParticipantsAll children admitted to a single tertiary children’s hospital aged 3 months to 16 years over a 5-year period. Data were cleaned to remove values likely to be erroneous and filtered to reduce bias due to patients who were admitted on multiple occasions.OutcomesThe main outcome was the proportion of patients who would receive a subtherapeutic or supratherapeutic paracetamol dose if given a dose based on their age. Secondary outcomes were to examine this in children of different ages and to examine the impact of alternative size-based dosing strategies.Results100 047 admissions (in 68 310 patients) had a weight documented. If age-banded dosing had been used, a subtherapeutic dose (less than 10 mg/kg) would be given during 19 829 (20%) of the admissions and a supratherapeutic dose (over 18.75 mg/kg, 75 mg/kg/day in four doses) in 4289 (4.3%). The highest risk of a subtherapeutic dose occurred in infants just prior to reaching 6 months of age (83%) and in children just prior to reaching 8 years (66%). The highest risk of a supratherapeutic dose was at 12 years of age (35%).ConclusionAge-banded dosing is not suitable for an inpatient paediatric population as approximately a quarter of patients receive a dose outside the recommended range of 10.0–18.75 mg/kg.
Liver enzymes among COVID-19 patients in Al-Ahsa region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: AlOmair Omar 
Published: April 2023

BackgroundHepatic damage is one of the common forms of extra pulmonary organ destructions among patients with COVID-19 infections.AimTo evaluate the prognosis of liver damage among COVID-19 patients based on their liver enzymes profile.MethodsA retrospective study was done to evaluate the records of the hospitably admitted patient due to COVID-19 infection.Retrieved data included clinical presentation and investigation either imaging or laboratory with special investing in liver function tests.ResultWe reviewed 442 patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19 infection.They were 64.5% of female patients and 35.5% of male patients. Their mean age was 54.5%, most of them were Saudi (76.7%) and the overall mortality reached up to (20.4%).ConclusionThis large cohort of 442 patients has shown that liver damage may be an independent prognostic factor for morbidities and mortality among COVID-19 patients. It also showed the importance of liver function enzymes screening as a predictor for the outcome of those patients.
Ethiopia National Food and Nutrition Survey to inform the Ethiopian National Food and Nutrition Strategy: a study protocol
Authors: Woldeyohannes Meseret , Girma Meron , Petros Alemnesh , Hussen Alemayehu , Samuel Aregash , Dinssa Danial Abera , Challa Feyissa , Laillou Arnaud , Chitekwe Stanley , Baye Kaleab , Noor Ramadhani , Donze Anne Sophie , Tollera Getachew , Dangiso Mesay Hailu , Tadesse Lia , Zelalem Meseret , Tessema Masresha 
Published: April 2023

IntroductionEthiopia has made significant progress in reducing malnutrition in the past two decades. Despite such improvements, a substantial segment of the country’s population remains chronically undernourished and suffers from micronutrient deficiencies and from increasing diet-related non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and cancer. This survey aims to assess anthropometric status, dietary intake and micronutrient status of Ethiopian children, women and adolescent girls. The study will also assess coverage of direct and indirect nutrition-related interventions and map agricultural soil nutrients. The survey will serve as a baseline for the recently developed Ethiopian Food System Transformation Plan and will inform the implementation of the National Food and Nutrition Strategy.Methods and analysisAs a population-based, cross-sectional survey, the study will collect data from the 10 regions and 2 city administrations of Ethiopia. The study population will be women of reproductive age, children aged 0–59 months, school-aged children and adolescent girls. A total of 16 596 households will be surveyed, allowing the generation of national and regional estimates. A two-stage stratified cluster sampling procedure will be used to select households. In the first stage, 639 enumeration areas (EAs) will be selected using probability-proportional-to-size allocation. In the second stage, 26 eligible households will be selected within each EA using systematic random selection. Primary outcomes include coverage of direct and indirect nutrition interventions, infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices, food insecurity, dietary intakes, mental health, anthropometric status, micronutrient status and soil nutrient status.Ethics and disseminationThe protocol was fully reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (protocol no: EPHI-IRB-317–2020). The study is based on voluntary participation and written informed consent is required from study participants. The findings will be disseminated via forums and conferences and will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals.