Significant Regional Variation Research Articles

Revised on 26 February 2024-wl-5218-Rural Nonfarm Employment in Uttar Pradesh: A Regional-Level Study Based on NSSO and PLFS Data

This study evaluates the regional dynamics of nonfarm sector growth in Uttar Pradesh, leveraging data from the National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO) and the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS). Our investigation aims to uncover the underlying factors behind the regional disparities observed in the growth of the non-farm sector. We found notable differences across regions, with the southern part of Uttar Pradesh exhibiting a higher proportion of casual labour and stagnation in rural manufacturing activities compared to the western region. This pattern has led to increased casualisation of the rural workforce. In contrast, the western region has seen a significant shift among educated individuals, landowners, and those belonging to socially dominant castes towards employment in the rural non-farm sector, a trend not observed in the southern region. By employing a multinomial logit model, we analysed various factors influencing non-farm employment, such as age, gender, education, land ownership, caste, and household size, uncovering significant regional variations in these determinants. The findings suggest that non-farm activities in many areas of Uttar Pradesh are pursued out of economic distress rather than as a preferred employment choice.

Role of data-driven regional growth model in shaping brain folding patterns.

The surface morphology of the developing mammalian brain is crucial for understanding brain function and dysfunction. Computational modeling offers valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms for early brain folding. Recent findings indicate significant regional variations in brain tissue growth, while the role of these variations in cortical development remains unclear. In this study, we explored how regional cortical growth affects brain folding patterns using computational simulation. We first developed growth models for typical cortical regions using machine learning (ML)-assisted symbolic regression, based on longitudinal real surface expansion and cortical thickness data from prenatal and infant brains derived from over 1000 MRI scans of 735 pediatric subjects with ages ranging from 29 postmenstrual weeks to 2 years of age. These models were subsequently integrated into computational software to simulate cortical development with anatomically realistic geometric models. We comprehensively quantified the resulting folding patterns using multiple metrics such as mean curvature, sulcal depth, and gyrification index. Our results demonstrate that regional growth models generate complex brain folding patterns that more closely match actual brains structures, both quantitatively and qualitatively, compared to conventional uniform growth models. Growth magnitude plays a dominant role in shaping folding patterns, while growth trajectory has a minor influence. Moreover, multi-region models better capture the intricacies of brain folding than single-region models. Our results underscore the necessity and importance of incorporating regional growth heterogeneity into brain folding simulations, which could enhance early diagnosis and treatment of cortical malformations and neurodevelopmental disorders such as cerebral palsy and autism.

Global assessment of leukemia care quality: insights from the quality of care index (QCI) from 1990 to 2021

While advancements in leukemia care have been made, the global quality of care remains a concern. This study utilizes a modified quality of care index (QCI) to assess the global status of leukemia care. We analyzed data from the global burden of disease (GBD) study spanning 1990-2021. The QCI was constructed using principal component analysis, based on the weighted variances of key indicators. We compared the original QCI with our modified version, analyzed QCI trends across different age groups and leukemia subtypes, identified key influencing factors using linear mixed models (LMM), and used spatial autocorrelation analysis to verify the autocorrelation of the socio-demographic index (SDI) region. Then we employed the bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model to predict future QCI trends. Between 1990 and 2021, both the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) and age-standardized death rate (ASDR) for leukemia exhibited a consistent decline. Our modified QCI method outperformed the original approach, particularly when the variance explained by the first principal component was below 80%, demonstrating higher correlation with the healthcare access and quality index (HAQI) (Pearson r=0.91 vs. 0.89) and improved explanatory power (R2=0.82 vs. 0.79). Over past three decades, QCI was highest in San Marino (97.72%) and lowest in Fiji (3.51%), with significant regional variations across SDI levels (F=133.40, p<2e-16). High-SDI regions had the highest QCI (78.50%; 95% confidence interval: 77.20%, 79.70%). QCI trends varied by age, peaking at 94.49% in the 15-19 age group in 2021 and declining to 0.44% in the 75-79 age group. LMM analysis identified sex, age, year, SDI region, and leukemia subtype as significant QCI determinants. Spatial autocorrelation analysis confirmed positive autocorrelation within SDI regions (Global Moran's I=0.87, p<2e-16). Projections suggest a generally fluctuating upward trend in QCI for leukemia, reaching 79.58% by2046. The QCI serves as an effective metric for evaluating the quality of leukemia care. Our findings reveal a strong association between leukemia QCI and regional economic and educational development. Age is a critical factor, with an aging population contributing to a potential decline in QCI. These results underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to enhance health services for older adults and to improve care quality in economically disadvantaged regions. This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (General Program) (No.82370176) and the Key Research and Development Program of Hubei Province (No. CZKYXM2023036JZ).

Regional variation of risk factors among diabetic retinopathy patients in India: Findings from the INDO EYE study

Context: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a major cause of vision impairment among diabetics, with significant regional variations in its prevalence and associated risk factors across India. Aims: This study aims to assess the variation in risk factors for DR, including demographic and behavioral characteristics, and to identify regional differences in the severity of DR across four geographic zones in India. Settings and Design: Data were sourced from the INDO EYE registry, encompassing six tertiary eye care hospitals across India. The study was designed to analyze and compare DR-related variables among different geographic zones: south, central, west, and east. Subjects and Methods: The study analyzed data from 7112 eyes of 3699 patients diagnosed with DR. Demographic, clinical, and behavioral data were collected, including age, gender, substance abuse history, comorbidities, and DR severity . Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics summarized demographic and clinical characteristics. Chi-square tests assessed associations between categorical variables, and one-way ANOVA evaluated continuous variables across zones. Statistical significance was set at P &lt; 0.05, with analysis performed using the IBM SPSS Statistics 28. Results: The study revealed significant regional differences in DR severity and risk factors. The central zone had the highest proportion of proliferative DR and diabetic macular edema, while the south and west zones showed better visual outcomes and higher proportions of certain comorbidities. The east zone exhibited higher substance abuse rates and a broader range of visual acuity outcomes. Conclusions: Regional disparities in DR prevalence and severity highlight the need for targeted public health strategies to address local risk factors and improve diabetes management across India. Enhanced healthcare access and tailored interventions are crucial for reducing DR-related vision loss.

Persistent organic pollutants and fatty acids in humpback whales: Antarctic and Chilean feeding and Brazilian breeding sites.

This study investigated the fatty acid composition and persistent organic pollutant (POP) levels in humpback whales across the Southern Ocean, Chilean and Brazilian coast. We found significant regional variations in both fatty acids and POPs. Whales from the Strait of Magellan exhibited a distinct fatty acid profile, indicative of a specialized diet rich in higher trophic level prey. In contrast, whales from the Antarctic Peninsula and Brazilian coast displayed fatty acid compositions typical of humpback whales with krill-based diets. Additionally, pollutant concentrations, particularly PCBs, were significantly elevated in whales from the Strait of Magellan. This suggests a strong link between dietary habits and pollutant exposure.

Statistical Analysis on the Marine Meteorological Characteristics around Republic of Korea(2014-2023)

This study examines the marine meteorological characteristics of the seas around Republic of Korea for the recent 10 years (2014-2023) focusing on regions including the Mid-West Sea, South-West Sea, South Sea West, Jeju Island, South-East Sea, and Mid-East Sea. Utilized data from nearby observation stations operated by KMA and analyzed important meteorological elements for vessels operations such as wind speed, gust wind speed, maximum wave height and significant wave height were averaged for months, seasons and years. Then relationships between meteological elements were anylized at national and regional levels. The analysis revealed significant regional variations in these parameters, with certain areas exhibiting higher frequencies of extreme conditions that could impact maritime navigation. Our findings provide critical insights for improving maritime safety and optimizing navigation strategies in Korean waters, highlighting the need for region-specific weather forecasting and risk management approaches, and can be meaningfully utilized in the designation of new maritime routes in future.

Sociodemographic Factors and Awareness of Consanguineous Marriages in Rural Northern Karnataka: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Consanguineous marriages, defined as unions between closely related individuals, are influenced by a complex interplay of cultural, social, economic, religious, and demographic factors. These marriages are prevalent among communities such as Hindus, Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, Christians, and Parsis in Southern and Western Asia, with significant regional variations within India. There is a lack of appropriate decision-making among women in consanguineous unions, particularly those with a low level of educational attainment, which leads to an increase in the prevalence of consanguineous marriages. This needs to be addressed through more studies and educational campaigns. Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to assess knowledge about the consequences of consanguinity and the sociodemographic factors related to consanguinity. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted in Unnat Bharat Abhiyan villages (Ukkali, Donur, Yambatnal, Hegadihal, Deginal) enrolled under Shri B. M. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, BLDE (Deemed to be University), Vijayapura, India, which was selected using a lottery method. The houses were selected randomly, focusing on ever-married females aged 15-49 within the reproductive age group. Data on sociodemographic profile, marital status, and awareness status of the participants were collected from March 2023 to April 2024 using an interview technique with a pretested, semi-structured questionnaire. Results The study involved the enrollment of a total of 108 participants (Donur - 24, Yembatnal - 32, Ukkali - 27, Deginal - 10, Hegadihal - 15). Among the respondents, only 37 participants (34%) know the specific health and genetic consequences of consanguinity, such as increased risk of genetic disorders (stillbirth, milestone delay, cerebral palsy). The study highlights a significant association between respondents' knowledge of the consequences of consanguineous marriage, their literacy level, and socioeconomic status. Conclusion The study concludes that literacy levels are inversely related to the prevalence of consanguineous marriages, suggesting that education holds the key to reducing this practice. The results of this study highlight the necessity of tackling this problem through a multifaceted strategy. This strategy should include culturally sensitive educational programs, economic empowerment initiatives for women, and religious discourse that promotes genetic diversity, offering the potential for change and progress.

Environmental and Behavioral Determinants of Septicemia Mortality in Türkiye: A Ten-Year Analysis

This study examines the environmental and behavioral factors associated with variations in septicemia mortality rates across Turkish provinces. Province-level data spanning ten years were analyzed using ordinal logistic regression modeling to determine the predictors of septicemia mortality. Environmental factors such as humidity, temperature, and air pollutants, along with behavioral aspects including alcohol consumption, were evaluated. Analysis of the provided data revealed significant regional variations in septicemia mortality rates across areas with diverse environmental and social characteristics. Higher median humidity and stable environmental conditions (low variability in humidity and temperature) correlated with reduced mortality rates. Alcohol consumption was identified as a risk factor, moderately increasing the risk of septicemia mortality. The findings highlight the intricate relationship between environmental stability, personal behaviors, and septicemia outcomes. The study accentuates the need for targeted public health strategies and suggests that mitigating environmental risks and fostering healthy behaviors could effectively reduce septicemia mortality. Further studies should focus on individual-level data and explore the relationship between these factors in different climatic conditions.

Climate-driven variation in the phenology of juvenile Ixodes pacificus on lizard hosts.

Ectothermic arthropods, like ticks, are sensitive indicators of environmental changes, and their seasonality plays a critical role in tick-borne disease dynamics in a warming world. Juvenile tick phenology, which influences pathogen transmission, may vary across climates, with longer tick seasons in cooler climates potentially amplifying transmission. However, assessing juvenile tick phenology is challenging in climates where desiccation pressures reduce the time ticks spend seeking blood meals. To improve our understanding of juvenile tick seasonality across a latitudinal gradient, we examine Ixodes pacificus phenology on lizards, the primary juvenile tick host in California, and explore how climate factors influence phenological patterns. Between 2013 and 2022, ticks were removed from 1,527 lizards at 45 locations during peak tick season (March-June). Tick counts were categorized by life stage (larvae and nymphs) and linked with remotely sensed climate data. Juvenile phenology metrics, including abundance, date of peak abundance, and temporal overlap between larval and nymphal populations, were analyzed along a latitudinal gradient, including tick abundances on lizards, Julian date of peak mean abundance. Generalized Additive Models (GAMs) were applied to assess climate-associated variation in juvenile abundance on lizards. Mean tick abundance per lizard ranged from 0.17 to 47.21 across locations, with the highest in the San Francisco Bay Area and lowest in Los Angeles, where more lizards had zero ticks attached. In the San Francisco Bay Area, peak nymphal abundance occurred 25 days earlier than peak larval abundance. Temporal overlap between larval and nymphal stages at a given location varied regionally, with northern areas showing higher overlap. We found that locations with higher temperatures and increased drought stress were linked to lower tick abundances, though the magnitude of these effects depended on regional location. Our study, which compiled 10 years of data, reveals significant regional variation in juvenile I. pacificus phenology across California, including differences in the abundance, peak timing, and temporal overlap. These findings highlight the influence of local climate on tick seasonality, with implications for tick-borne disease dynamics in a changing climate.

Regional disparities and correlates of alcohol use during pregnancy in India: Insights from the National Family Health Survey-5.

Alcohol use during pregnancy is a significant public health concern due to its adverse outcomes for the mother and developing fetus. This study aims to estimate the national and state-wise prevalence of alcohol use during pregnancy in India and examine associated social, demographic and health-related correlates using data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) conducted in 2019-2020. Data from NFHS-5, a large-scale, nationally representative survey, were analysed. The survey included comprehensive interviews with 724,115 women aged 15-49 years, covering all 28 states and 8 union territories of India. The main outcome was self-reported alcohol use during the respondents' current or most recent pregnancy. Explanatory variables included age, economic status, education level, tribal affiliation, urban/rural residence, planned/unplanned pregnancy, adequacy of antenatal care and tobacco use. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests for unadjusted comparisons and logistic regression for adjusted odds ratios (AOR). The prevalence of alcohol use during pregnancy was 1.26% nationally, with significant regional variations. The highest prevalence rates were in Arunachal Pradesh (13.03%), Chhattisgarh (5.77%) and Assam (5.62%). Key correlates included belonging to Scheduled Tribes (AOR 7.987, 95% CI 5.73-11.134), having no education (AOR 1.733, 95% CI 1.025-2.931) and tobacco use (AOR 3.389, 95% CI 2.647-4.338). Regional analysis showed the highest adjusted odds for the Northeast (AOR 19.753, 95% CI 4.87-80.116) region. Alcohol use during pregnancy in India shows significant regional and socio-demographic disparities. The findings highlight the need for targeted public health interventions and policies, particularly in high-risk groups and regions.

Regional Variations in the Incidence of Lichen Sclerosus in Sweden: Insights from a Nationwide Register Study (2001-2021).

Background: Lichen Sclerosus (LSc) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition predominantly affecting the anogenital regions, with a well-recognised potential for malignancy. This study examines the incidence, demographic characteristics, and regional distribution of LSc in Sweden over a 20-year period. The analysis is based on data from the Swedish National Patient Register (NPR), with a focus on cases diagnosed in specialist care settings. Methods: A nationwide register-based study was conducted using data from the NPR, identifying cases of LSc diagnosed between 1 January 2001 and 1 January 2021. Data analysis explored incidence by region, sex, age, and diagnostic care setting. A total of 154,424 patients with LSc were included, and the control group consisted of the general Swedish population without known LSc. Results: The mean annual incidence of LSc was 0.81 per 1000 individuals across Sweden, with higher rates in females (1.14 per 1000) compared to males (0.47 per 1000). Incidence varied significantly across regions, with Blekinge, Kalmar, and Gotland exhibiting the highest rates. This study analysed the distribution of LSc diagnoses across medical specialties, finding that 29.8% of cases were managed by dermatology and venereology, while 17.2% were handled by gynaecology and obstetrics. The analysis of marital status revealed that the proportion of married and divorced LSc patients was significantly lower than the national averages for men and women. Conclusions: This study highlights significant regional variations in LSc incidence. Future research should investigate whether environmental factors, genetic predisposition, socioeconomic disparities, or variations in healthcare access contribute to the variations in incidence. Such insights could lead to more targeted public health strategies for managing LSc across different regions.

Cell-Based Meat Safety and Regulatory Approaches: A Comprehensive Review.

Cell-based meat (CBM) technology is a highly promising alternative to traditional animal agriculture, with considerable advantages in terms of sustainability, animal welfare, and food security. Nonetheless, CBM's successful commercialization is dependent on efficiently dealing with several critical concerns, including ensuring biological, chemical, and nutritional safety as well as navigating the global regulatory framework. To ensure CBM's biological safety, detecting and mitigating any potential hazards introduced during the manufacturing process is crucial. Concerns include microbial contamination, the utilization of animal-derived growth media, and the risk of viral or prion infection. Similarly, chemical hazards include residues from growth media, scaffolding materials, and other bioprocessing agents. For consumer acceptance, CBM's nutritional qualities should be comparable to those of conventional meat, indicating adequate protein content, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, CBM's safety in terms of allergenicity and the presence of anti-nutritional factors must be rigorously assessed. Advances in cell culture techniques and biomanufacturing methods are requisite to achieving high-quality CBM with desirable nutritional attributes. The regulatory framework for CBM is actively expanding, with significant regional variations. Singapore is currently the only country that has received approval for the market placement of CBM, although the United States has developed a regulatory structure involving the United States Department of Agriculture and Food and Drug Administration. As CBM holds great potential as a sustainable and ethical alternative to conventional meat, addressing challenges related to biological and chemical safety, nutritional quality, and regulatory approval is essential for its successful market integration.

Spatial and Temporal Variations of Surface Air Temperature (1962–2022) across Physiographic Regions in the Koshi Basin, Nepal

This study analyzed the seasonal and annual trends of maximum temperature (Tmax), minimum temperature (Tmin), and mean temperature (Tavg) across the physiographic regions (Himalaya, High Mountain, Middle Mountain, Siwalik, and Terai) of the Koshi Basin using observed data from 23 stations between 1962 and 2022. Missing temperature data were filled using the lapse rate method. The Mann-Kendall (M-K) test was employed to assess the consistency of the temperature dataset. The analysis revealed distinct regional and seasonal temperature trends in the Koshi Basin. The seasonal variations were prominent, especially in the Monsoon and Winter. In the Middle Mountain and High Mountain regions, Tmax increased significantly during the Pre-monsoon season, while Tmin decreased substantially during the Monsoon and Winter. Conversely, the Siwalik and Terai regions experienced more pronounced cooling Himalayas, especially during the Monsoon and Winter. Overall, the Himalayas and High Mountain regions exhibited a cooling trend until the late 1990s, followed by a warming trend. The Middle Mountain region demonstrated similar patterns, with a significant temperature increase after the 1990s. The Siwalik and Terai regions experienced a general cooling trend, although the Siwalik region exhibited some fluctuations. The significant regional variations in temperature trends were the key findings. Similarly, the Himalayas and High Mountains showed a cooling-warming shift in the late 1990s. All these findings underscore the importance of considering both regional and seasonal factors when studying temperature trends in the Koshi Basin.

The Relationship Between Soil and Gut Microbiota Influences the Adaptive Strategies of Goitered Gazelles in the Qaidam Basin.

The gut microbiota is integral to the health and adaptability of wild herbivores. Interactions with soil microbiota can shape the composition and function of the gut microbiota, thereby influencing the hosts' adaptive strategies. As a result, soil microbiota plays a pivotal role in enabling wild herbivores to thrive in extreme environments. However, the influence of soil microbiota from distinct regions on host's gut microbiota has often been overlooked. We conducted the first comprehensive analysis of the composition and diversity of gut and soil microbiota in goitered gazelles across six regions in the Qaidam Basin, utilizing source tracking and ecological assembly process analyses. Significant differences were observed in the composition and diversity of soil and gut microbiota among the six groups. Source tracking analysis revealed that soil microbiota in the GangciGC (GC) group contributed the highest proportion to fecal microbiota (8.94%), while the Huaitoutala (HTTL) group contributed the lowest proportion (1.80%). The GC group also exhibited the lowest α-diversity in gut microbiota. The observed differences in gut microbial composition and diversity among goitered gazelles from six regions in the Qaidam Basin were closely tied to their adaptive strategies. Ecological assembly process analysis indicated that the gut microbiota were primarily influenced by stochastic processes, whereas deterministic processes dominated most soil microbial groups. Both the differences and commonalities in gut and soil microbiota play essential roles in enabling these gazelles to adapt to diverse environments. Notably, the utilization pattern of soil microbiota by gut microbiota did not align with regional trends in gut microbial α-diversity. This discrepancy may be attributed to variations in environmental pressures and the gut's filtering capacity, allowing gazelles to selectively acquire microbiota from soil to maintain homeostasis. This study highlights the significant regional variation in gut and soil microbiota diversity among goitered gazelle populations in the Qaidam Basin and underscores the critical role of soil-derived microbiota in their environmental adaptation.

Associations Between Successful Home Discharge and Posthospitalization Care Planning: Cross-Sectional Ecological Study.

Effective discharge planning is crucial for successful care transitions, reducing hospital length of stay and readmission rates. Japan offers a financial incentive to enhance the coordination of posthospitalization care planning for patients with complex needs. However, the national impact of this incentive remains unclear. This study aimed to (1) assess the association between the number of claims submitted for discharge planning, as an indicator of the provision of posthospitalization care planning, and key health care outcomes, including discharges to home, 30-day readmissions, length of stay, and medical expenditures at the prefectural level in Japan, and (2) to describe regional differences in the provision of posthospitalization care planning and explore associated factors. This ecological study used prefectural-level data from fiscal year 2020. Claims submitted for discharge planning were used as indicators that posthospitalization care planning was provided. Supply-adjusted standardized claim ratios (SCRs) were calculated using data from the Seventh National Database of Health Insurance Claims, to evaluate and compare the number of claims across 47 prefectures in Japan, accounting for differences in population structure. Key outcomes included discharges to home, 30-day readmissions, length of stay, and medical expenditures. Multivariate negative binomial regression models assessed associations between SCRs and outcomes, adjusting for socioeconomic covariates. In addition, regional differences in the provision of posthospitalization care planning and associated factors were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Prefectures were divided into 3 groups (low, medium, and high) based on tertiles of each factor, and supply-adjusted SCRs were compared across these groups. The ratio of the minimum to maximum supply-adjusted SCR was 10.63, highlighting significant regional variation. Higher supply-adjusted SCRs, indicating more frequent provision of posthospitalization care planning, were associated with an increase of 9.68 (95% CI 0.98-18.47) discharges to home per 1000 patients for each SD increase in supply-adjusted SCR. Several factors contributed to regional differences in the supply-adjusted SCR for posthospitalization care planning. A higher supply-adjusted SCR was significantly associated with a greater number of nurses per 100 hospital beds (median SCR in low, medium, and high groups: 0.055, 0.101, and 0.103, respectively); greater number of care manager offices per 100 km2 of habitable area (0.088, 0.082, and 0.116); higher proportion of hospitals providing electronic medical information to patients (0.083, 0.095, and 0.11); lower proportion of older adults living alone (0.116; 0.092; 0.071); and higher average per capita income (0.078, 0.102, and 0.102). The provision of posthospitalization care planning is associated with an increased likelihood of discharge to home, underscoring its importance in care transitions. However, significant regional disparities in care coordination exist. Addressing these disparities is crucial for equitable health care outcomes. Further research is needed to clarify causal mechanisms.

Legal and Practical Aspects of MARPOL Port State Control Inspections

This research investigates the legal and practical dimensions of Port State Control (PSC) inspections as mandated by the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL). Utilizing a qualitative methodology, the study integrates comprehensive document analysis, semi-structured interviews with maritime stakeholders, and illustrative case studies to evaluate the efficacy of PSC inspections in ensuring regulatory compliance and environmental protection. The findings indicate a relatively stable compliance rate of 94.1% to 95.7% over a five-year period, with recurring deficiencies primarily identified in Oil Record Book discrepancies and sewage treatment systems. Significant regional variations were observed, wherein European ports demonstrated stricter enforcement mechanisms compared to those in other regions, highlighting disparities in global implementation practices. Challenges such as resource constraints, inconsistent inspector training, and limited collaboration between port states and flag states were identified as critical barriers to effective enforcement. The study emphasizes the necessity of targeted training programs, enhanced inter-regional cooperation, and the integration of advanced technologies to improve inspection processes and foster a uniform enforcement regime. These findings contribute to the discourse on maritime governance by offering evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and regulatory bodies aimed at strengthening the effectiveness of PSC inspections and advancing marine environmental protection.

Effect of the 2022 summer drought across forest types in Europe

Abstract. Forests in Europe experienced record-breaking dry conditions during the summer of 2022. The direction in which various forest types respond to climate extremes during their growing season is contingent upon an array of internal and external factors. These factors include the extent and severity of the extreme conditions and the tree ecophysiological characteristics adapted to environmental cues, which exhibit significant regional variations. In this study, we aimed to (1) quantify the extent and severity of the extreme soil and atmospheric dryness in 2022 in comparison to the two most extreme years in the past (2003 and 2018), (2) quantify the response of different forest types to atmospheric and soil dryness in terms of canopy browning and photosynthesis, and (3) relate the functional characteristics of the forests to the emerging responses observed remotely at the canopy level. For this purpose, we used spatial meteorological datasets between 2000 and 2022 to identify conditions with extreme soil and atmospheric dryness. We used the near-infrared reflectance of vegetation (NIRv), derived from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), and the global OCO-2 solar-induced fluorescence (GOSIF) as an observational proxy for ecosystem gross productivity to quantify the response of forests at the canopy level. In summer 2022, southern regions of Europe experienced exceptionally pronounced atmospheric and soil dryness. These extreme conditions resulted in a 30 % more widespread decline in GOSIF across forests compared to the drought of 2018 and 60 % more widespread decline compared to the drought of 2003. Although the atmospheric and soil drought scores were more extensive and severe (indicated by a larger observed maximum z score) in 2018 compared to 2022, the negative impact on forests, as indicated by declined GOSIF, was significantly larger in 2022. Different forest types were affected to varying degrees by the extreme conditions in 2022. Deciduous broadleaf forests were the most negatively impacted due to the extent and severity of the drought within their distribution range. In contrast, areas dominated by evergreen needleleaf forest (ENF) in northern Europe experienced a positive soil moisture (SM) anomaly and minimal negative vapour pressure deficit (VPD) in 2022. These conditions led to enhanced canopy greening and stronger solar-induced fluorescence (SIF) signals, benefiting from the warming. The higher degree of canopy damage in 2022, despite less extreme conditions, highlights the evident vulnerability of European forests to future droughts.

P34 The incidence and prevalence of psoriasis in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Abstract The Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) is recognized as a founder population of English and Irish descent, with an approximate population of 525 000 people. The incidence and prevalence of psoriasis in the NL population have not been formally studied, although provincial dermatologists acknowledge an increased burden of psoriasis, compared with other regions in Canada. Our objective was to examine the incidence and prevalence of psoriasis in NL and the variation by age, gender, geographic region, and time. Digital Health, Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services provided Provincial Electronic Health Records that were used to identify patients with psoriasis using International Classification of Diseases 9th revision (ICD-9) code 696 from 2001 to 2020. The prevalence of psoriasis was 6830 per 100 000 people (3801 women, 3029 men), and incidence was 365.4 per 100 000 person-years [95% confidence interval (CI), 298.0–432.9]; 395.9 (329.5–462.2) per 100 000 person-years for women and 334.2 (263.5–404.9) per 100 000 person-years for men. The peak age group for incident cases was 55–59 years, suggesting that the late onset of psoriasis is higher than in most Western European and North American populations. There was significant geographic variation in the prevalence of psoriasis, as 20 of the 234 communities with a population over 200 people had a psoriasis prevalence between 0 and 3% and nine communities with psoriasis prevalence over 30%. It is likely that regional founder effects most likely account for the high prevalence of psoriasis in selected communities, although environmental influences cannot be discounted. The NL populations had a high incidence and prevalence of psoriasis, with significant regional variations in prevalence.

Trends and the Role of Gene-Environment Interactions in Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy in Northern China

Introduction: Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (iMN) has become one of the most prevalent primary glomerular diseases, with a marked increase in prevalence over the past two decades in northern China. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is considered to be associated with this rising prevalence. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the trends of iMN in relation to improved air quality and conduct a cross-sectional study in Hebei province (northern China, near Beijing) to investigate the role of gene-environment interactions in its development. Methods: This study established two cohorts. Cohort 1 included 22,937 pathology reports from Peking University First Hospital (2002–2021) to assess iMN prevalence. Cohort 2 comprised 5,635 iMN patients from 11 cities in Hebei province (2009–2013). DNA samples from 374 iMN patients and 1,259 controls were genotyped for SNPs rs4664608 (PLA2R1) and rs2187668 (HLA-DQA1). Patients were stratified by air pollution risk levels. The annual percentage change (APC) and average annual percentage change were estimated using a joinpoint regression model. Gene-environment interactions were analyzed using logistic regression and epinet calculation. Results: In cohort 1, 5,586 patients with iMN were identified, representing 24.3% of the 22,937 patients from 2002 to 2021. The general population showed a significant increase in iMN proportion with an APC of +12.7% per year from 2002 to 2014 (95% CI: 10.3–17.5, p < 0.001), followed by a decline with an APC of −5.6% per year from 2014 to 2021 (95% CI: −9.6 to −2.6, p < 0.001). In Hebei province, the iMN frequency rose significantly with an APC of +17.6% per year from 2002 to 2016 (95% CI: 14.5–28.6, p < 0.001), peaking at 60%, and then declined with an APC of −5.5% per year from 2016 to 2021 (95% CI: −13.1 to −1.2, p = 0.02). Cohort 2 highlighted significant regional variation in iMN incidence across Hebei province. Geographic exposure to pollution was identified as an independent risk factor for iMN (RR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.38–1.56, p < 0.001). Gene-environment interaction analysis revealed that patients with risk alleles in the PLA2R1 gene and exposure to risk environments had a markedly increased risk of developing iMN (odds ratio = 38.72, 95% CI: 11.95–125.46, p < 0.01). Conclusion: The annual growth rate of iMN in northern China appears to be slowing down. Gene-environment interactions may have contributed to the previously observed increase in prevalence.

Daily Light Integral Maps for Agriculture Lighting Design in Spain

Daily Light Integral Maps for Agriculture Lighting Design in Spain