bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empirical evidence of a role for insertion sequences in the repair of DNA breaks in bacterial genomes
Authors: Ngan Wing Y. , Parab Lavisha , Bertels Frederic , Gallie Jenna
Published: June 2024

InsertionSequences (ISs) are mobile pieces of DNA that are widespread in bacterial genomes. IS movements typically involve (i) excision of the IS element, (ii) cutting of the target site DNA, and (iii) IS element insertion. This process generates a new copy of the IS element, as well as a short duplication at the target site. It has been noted that, when observing extant IS element copies in a genome, occasionally noTargetSiteDuplication (TSD) is readily identifiable. This has been attributed to degeneration of the TSD at some point after the insertion event. Here, we provide evidence that some IS movement events – namely, those that occur in association with large-scale genome rearrangements – occur without generating TSDs. In support of this hypothesis, we provide two direct, empirical observations of such IS transposition events: an IS481movement occurring with a large duplication inPseudomonas fluorescensSBW25, and an IS5/IS1182movement plus a large deletion inEscherichia coliC. Additionally, we use sequencing data from the Lenski long-term evolution experiment to provide a further 14 examples of IS150movements inE. coliB that are associated with large deletions and do not carry TSDs. Overall, our results indicate that some IS elements can insert into, and thus repair, existing DNA breaks in bacterial genomes.
AMPGLDA: Predicting LncRNA-Disease Associations Based on Adaptive Meta-Path Generation and Multi-Layer Perceptron
Authors: Yao Dengju , Zhang Xuehui , Zhan Xiaojuan
Published: June 2024

Increased evidence suggests that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) holds a vital position in intricate human diseases. Nonetheless, the current pool of identified lncRNA linked to diseases remains restricted. Hence, the scientific community emphasizes the need for a reliable and cost-effective computational approach to predict the probable correlations between lncRNA and diseases. It would facilitate the exploration of the underlying mechanisms of lncRNA in ailments and the development of novel disease treatments. In this study, we propose a novel approach for predicting the associations between lncRNAs and diseases, which relies on the adaptive meta-path generation (AMPGLDA). Firstly, we integrate information about lncRNA, diseases, and miRNAs to construct a heterogeneous graph. Then, we utilize principal component analysis to extract global features from nodes. Based on this heterogeneous graph, AMPGLDA adaptively generates multiple meta-path graph structures and uses a graph convolutional neural network to learn the semantic feature representations of lncRNA and disease from the meta-path. Ultimately, AMPGLDA utilizes a deep neural network classifier to accurately predict the association between lncRNA and disease. The AMPGLDA model achieves impressive results, with AUC and AUPR scores of 99.66% and 99.66%, respectively, under the independent test set. Furthermore, three case studies demonstrate its accuracy in discovering new lncRNA-disease associations.
Potent and selective ‘genetic zipper’ method for plant protection: innovative DNA psyllidicides againstTrioza alacrisFlor based on short unmodified antisense oligonucleotides targeting rRNA of the pest
Authors: Oberemok V.V. , Novikov I.A. , Yatskova E.V. , Bilyk A.I. , Sharmagiy A.K. , Gal’chinsky N.V.
Published: June 2024

Chemical insecticides increased the chemical burden on natural ecosystems posing environmental health risk factor. The urgent need for a more sustainable and ecological approach has produced many innovative ideas, including eco-friendly ‘genetic zipper’ method (or CUAD platform) based on contact oligonucleotide insecticides. Oligonucleotide insecticides have enjoyed success recently on many sternorrhynchans showing highly adaptable structure for distinct insect pest species and selective mode of action. In this article, we describe the efficiency of the oligonucleotide insecticides (briefly, olinscides or DNA insecticides) Alacris-11 and Laura-11, as well as their combined use in mixture (1:1), designed for control of bay sucker (Trioza alacrisFlor), an important psyllid pest of noble laurel (Laurus nobilisL.). These olinscides are based on short unmodified antisense DNA oligonucleotides that target ITS2 between 5.8S rRNA and 28S rRNA in pre-rRNA (Laura-11) and 28S rRNA region in mature 28S rRNA and pre-rRNA (Alacris-11). The maximum pest mortality, observed on 14thday of the experiment, comprised 95.01 ± 4.42 % for Alacris-11, 97.16 ± 2.48 % for Laura-11, and 98.72 ± 1.14 % for their mixture (1:1). The control oligonucleotide CTGA-11 did not cause any significant mortality (9.38 ± 0.57 %), emphasizing selectivity in the action of oligonucleotide insecticides. The results show potent and specific nature of oligonucleotide insecticides for pest control and opens up new frontiers in control of economically important psyllids in agriculture and forestry, including Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citriKuwayama) and many others. Scientists can easily adopt ‘genetic zipper’ method for plethora of insect pests because DNA is a programmable molecule and provides game-changing characteristics for plant projection.
Different Trajectories of Functional Connectivity Captured with Gamma-Event Coupling and Broadband Measures of EEG in the Rat Fluid Percussion Injury Model
Authors: Fox Rachel , Santana-Gomez Cesar , Shamas Mohamad , Pavade Aarja , Staba Richard , Harris Neil G.
Published: June 2024

Functional connectivity (FC) after TBI is affected by an altered excitatory-inhibitory balance due to neuronal dysfunction, and the mechanistic changes observed could be reflected differently by contrasting methods. Local gamma event coupling FC (GEC-FC) is believed to represent multiunit fluctuations due to inhibitory dysfunction, and we hypothesized that FC derived from widespread, broadband amplitude signal (BBA-FC) would be different, reflecting broader mechanisms of functional disconnection. We tested this during sleep and active periods defined by high delta and theta EEG activity, respectively, at 1,7 and 28d after rat fluid-percussion-injury (FPI) or sham injury (n=6/group) using 10 indwelling, bilateral cortical and hippocampal electrodes. We also measured seizure and high-frequency oscillatory activity (HFOs) as markers of electrophysiological burden. BBA-FC analysis showed early hyperconnectivity constrained to ipsilateral sensory-cortex-to-CA1-hippocampus that transformed to mainly ipsilateral FC deficits by 28d compared to shams. These changes were conserved over active epochs, except at 28d when there were no differences to shams. In comparison, GEC-FC analysis showed large regions of hyperconnectivity early after injury within similar ipsilateral and intrahemispheric networks. GEC-FC weakened with time, but hyperconnectivity persisted at 28d compared to sham. Edge- and global connectivity measures revealed injury-related differences across time in GEC-FC as compared to BBA-FC, demonstrating greater sensitivity to FC changes post-injury. There was no significant association between sleep fragmentation, HFOs, or seizures with FC changes. The within-animal, spatial-temporal differences in BBA-FC and GEC-FC after injury may represent different mechanisms driving FC changes as a result of primary disconnection and interneuron loss.

Significance statement

The present study adds to the understanding of functional connectivity changes in preclinical models of traumatic brain injury. In previously reported literature, there is heterogeneity in the directionality of connectivity changes after injury, resulting from factors such as severity of injury, frequency band studied, and methodology used to calculate FC. This study aims to further clarify differential mechanisms that result in altered network topography after injury, by using Broadband Amplitude-Derived FC and Gamma Event Coupling-Derived FC in EEG. We found post-injury changes that differ in complexity and directionality between measures at and across timepoints. In conjunction with known results and future studies identifying different neural drivers underlying these changes, measures derived from this study could provide useful means from which to minimally-invasively study temporally-evolving pathology after TBI.
Ephrin Forward Signaling Controls Interspecies Cell Competition in Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Tanaka Junichi , Kondo Yuri , Sakurai Masahiro , Sawada Anri , Hwang Youngmin , Miura Akihiro , Shimamura Yuko , Shimizu Dai , Hu Yingying , Sarmah Hemanta , Ninish Zurab , Cai James , Wu Jun , Mori Munemasa
Published: June 2024

In the animal kingdom, evolutionarily conserved mechanisms known as cell competition eliminate unfit cells during development. Interestingly, cell competition also leads to apoptosis of donor cells upon direct contact with host cells from a different species during interspecies chimera formation. The mechanisms underlying how host animal cells recognize and transmit cell death signals to adjacent xenogeneic human cells remain incompletely understood. In this study, we developed an interspecies cell contact reporter system to dissect the mechanisms underlying competitive interactions between mouse and human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). Through single-cell RNA-seq analyses, we discovered that Ephrin A ligands in mouse cells play a crucial role in signaling cell death to adjacent human cells that express EPHA receptors during interspecies PSC co-culture. We also demonstrated that blocking the Ephrin A-EPHA receptor interaction pharmacologically, and inhibiting Ephrin forward signaling genetically in the mouse cells, enhances the survival of human PSCs and promotes chimera formation bothin vitroandin vivo. Our findings elucidate key mechanisms of interspecies PSC competition during early embryogenesis and open new avenues for generating humanized tissues or organs in animals, potentially revolutionizing regenerative medicine.
A Comprehensive Methodological Framework for Anthropometric Head Shape Modeling Using Small Dataset
Authors: Wei Leonardo H. , Subramanian Sudeesh , Chakroborty Sajal , Chowdhury Suman
Published: June 2024

Detailed anthropometric characterization of complex shapes of human heads can ensure optimal fit, comfort, and effectiveness of head-mounted devices. However, there is a lack of a reliable and systematic approach for head shape classification and modeling for laboratory-based, small, occupation-specific datasets. Therefore, in this study, we proposed a streamlined framework comprising six steps—pre-processing, feature extraction, feature selection, clustering, shape modeling, and validation—for head shape classification and modeling. We collected 36 firefighter 3D head scans and implemented the framework. Different clustering techniques, such as k-means and k-medoids, were evaluated using the squared Euclidean distance of individual head shapes from their cluster centroid. Furthermore, five variations of NURBS and cubic spline methods were assessed to design the representative head shape of each cluster, and their accuracy was evaluated using mean square error (MSE) values. The clustering results indicated that k-means provide better metrics than k-medoids. Among the shape modeling methods, cubic spline least squares displayed the lowest MSE (0.70 cm2)and computational time (0.14 s), whereas NURBS least squares displayed the highest MSE (7.19 cm2). Overall, the framework with k-means clustering and cubic spline least squares modeling techniques proved to be the most efficient for small datasets.
Frontotemporal dementia-like disease progression elicited by seeded aggregation and spread of FUS
Authors: Vazquez-Sanchez Sonia , Tilkin Britt , Gasset-Rosa Fatima , Zhang Sitao , Piol Diana , McAlonis-Downes Melissa , Artates Jonathan , Govea-Perez Noe , Verresen Yana , Guo Lin , Cleveland Don W. , Shorter James , Da Cruz Sandrine
Published: June 2024

RNA binding proteins have emerged as central players in the mechanisms of many neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, a proteinopathy offused insarcoma (FUS) is present in some instances of familial Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and about 10% of sporadic FTLD. Here we establish that focal injection of sonicated human FUS fibrils into brains of mice in which ALS-linked mutant or wild-type human FUS replaces endogenous mouse FUS is sufficient to induce focal cytoplasmic mislocalization and aggregation of mutant and wild-type FUS which with time spreads to distal regions of the brain. Human FUS fibril-induced FUS aggregation in the mouse brain of humanized FUS mice is accelerated by an ALS-causing FUS mutant relative to wild-type human FUS. Injection of sonicated human FUS fibrils does not induce FUS aggregation and subsequent spreading after injection into naïve mouse brains containing only mouse FUS, indicating a species barrier to human FUS aggregation and its prion-like spread. Fibril-induced human FUS aggregates recapitulate pathological features of FTLD including increased detergent insolubility of FUS and TAF15 and amyloid-like, cytoplasmic deposits of FUS that accumulate ubiquitin and p62, but not TDP-43. Finally, injection of sonicated FUS fibrils is shown to exacerbate age-dependent cognitive and behavioral deficits from mutant human FUS expression. Thus, focal seeded aggregation of FUS and further propagation through prion-like spread elicits FUS-proteinopathy and FTLD-like disease progression.
Estimation of free-roaming dog populations using Google Street View: A Validation Study
Authors: Porras Guillermo , Diaz Elvis W. , De la Puente Micaela , Gavidia Cesar M. , Castillo-Neyra Ricardo
Published: June 2024

Free-roaming dogs play a central role in carrying zoonotic pathogens such as rabies virus,Echinococcus granulosus, and Leishmania spp. The control and elimination of these pathogens require quantitative knowledge of dog populations. Thus, estimating the dog population is fundamental for planning, implementing, and evaluating public health programs. However, dog population estimation is time-consuming, requires many field personnel, may be inaccurate and unreliable, and is not without danger. Our objective was to validate a remote methodology for estimating the population of free-roaming dogs using Google Street View (GSV). Our target populations were free-roaming dogs from Arequipa, Peru, a rabies-affected area. Adopting a citizen science approach, and using social media, we recruited online citizen scientists from Arequipa and other regions and trained them to use GSV to identify and count free-roaming dogs in 26 urban and periurban communities. We used correlation metrics and negative binomial models to compare the counts of dogs identified in the GSV imagery with accurate counts of free-roaming owned dogs estimated via door-to-door surveys. In total, citizen scientists detected 868 dogs using GSV and using door-to-door surveys we estimated 909 free-roaming dogs across those 26 communities (Pearson’s coefficient was r=0.73, p < 0.001). Our model predicted that for each free-roaming dog detected with GSV in urban areas, there were 1.03 owned dogs with free access to the street (p < 0.001). The type of community, urban versus periurban, did not have an important effect on the model, but fitting the models in periurban communities was difficult because of the sparsity of high-resolution GSV images in those areas. Using GSV imagery for estimating dog populations is a promising tool in urban areas. Citizen scientists can help to generate information for disease control programs in places with insufficient resources.
AFMfit : Deciphering conformational dynamics in AFM data using fast nonlinear NMA and FFT-based search
Authors: Vuillemot Rémi , Pellequer Jean-Luc , Grudinin Sergei
Published: June 2024

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) offers a unique opportunity to study the conformational dynamics of proteins in near-physiological conditions at the single-molecule level. However, interpreting the two-dimensional molecular surfaces of multiple molecules measured in AFM experiments as three-dimensional conformational dynamics of a single molecule poses a significant challenge. Here, we present AFMfit, a flexible fitting procedure that deforms an input atomic model to match multiple AFM observations. The fitted models form a conformational ensemble that unambiguously describes the AFM experiment. Our method uses a new fast fitting algorithm based on the nonlinear Normal Mode Analysis (NMA) method NOLB to associate each molecule with its conformational state. AFMfit processes conformations of hundreds of AFM images of a single molecule in a few minutes on a single workstation, enabling analysis of larger datasets, including high-speed (HS)-AFM. We demonstrate the applications of our methods to synthetic and experimental AFM/HS-AFM data that include activated factor V and a membrane-embedded transient receptor potential channel TRPV3. AFMfit is an open-source Python package available athttps://gricad-gitlab.univ-grenoble-alpes.fr/GruLab/AFMfit/.
Synthesising integrated robot behaviour through reinforcement learning for homeostasis
Authors: Yoshida Naoto , Kanazawa Hoshinori , Kuniyoshi Yasuo
Published: June 2024

Homeostasis is a fundamental property for the survival of animals. Computational reinforcement learning provides a theoretically sound framework for learning autonomous agents. However, the definition of a unified motivational signal (i.e., reward) for integrated survival behaviours has been largely underexplored. Here, we present a novel neuroscience-inspired algorithm for synthesising robot survival behaviour without the need for complicated reward design and external feedback. Our agent, theEmbodied Neural Homeostat, was trained solely with feedback generated by its internal physical state and optimised its behaviour to stabilise these internal states: homeostasis. To demonstrate the effectiveness of our concept, we trained the agent in a simulated mechano-thermal environment and tested it in a real robot. We observed the synthesis of integrated behaviours, including walking, navigating to food, resting to cool down the motors, and shivering to warm up the motors, through the joint optimisation for thermal and energy homeostasis. The Embodied Neural Homeostat successfully achieved homeostasis-based integrated behaviour synthesis, which has not previously been accomplished at the motor control level. This demonstrates that homeostasis can be a motivating principle for integrated behaviour generation in robots and can also elucidate the behavioural principles of living organisms.
Adipogenic differentiation and inflammatory response is orchestrated by regulating euchromatic histone methyltransferases
Authors: Chakraborty Mahua , Anirudhan Jithu , Krishnamoorthy Vignesh K , Shree Nitya , Rampalli Shravanti
Published: June 2024

Euchromatic histone methyltransferases (EHMT1/2) play a key role in adipogenesis by regulating gene expression. While the downstream gene functions of EHMTs in adipogenic differentiation have been studied, their regulation and precise individual contributions remain elusive. We discovered the existence of a regulatory mechanism, wherein EHMT1 governs the interdependent expression of itself and the master regulator PPARƴ during the early phase of adipogenesis. In later stages, EHMT2 levels decline along with reduction in H3K9 dimethylation. Alteration of above sequence of events alone or in the presence of saturated-fatty acids lead to precocious induction of high levels of PPARƴ, accelerated adipogenesis and hypertrophic adipocytes with a pro-inflammatory phenotype. Countering the decrease in EHMTs effectively abrogated the inflammatory response of the adipocytes. Accordingly, induction of obesity by a high fat diet was sufficient to downregulate H3K9me2 levels and expression of EHMTs along with enhanced IL-6 generation. Taken together, our studies reveal a critical regulatory role played by EHMTs, which coordinates adipogenesis and obesity-induced inflammation.
Effect of iron layer thickness on the interlayer exchange coupling in Fe/MgO (001) superlattices
Authors: Ravensburg Anna L. , Grassi Matías P. , Hjörvarsson Björgvin , Kapaklis Vassilios
Published: June 2024

We describe the effect of the Fe layer thickness on the antiferromagnetic interlayer exchange coupling in [Fe/MgO]N superlattices. An increase in coupling strength with increasing Fe layer thickness is observed, which highlights the need for including the extension of both layers when discussing the interlayer exchange coupling in superlattices.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Chromonatural warm inflation
Authors: Mukuno Ann , Soda Jiro
Published: June 2024

Chromonatural inflation is a model where non-Abelian gauge fields are sustained by the coupling of the axion with the gauge field through the Chern-Simons term, while minimal warm inflation is a model where the axion produces a thermal bath of non-Abelian gauge particles through the Chern-Simons term. Since both axion inflation models are based on the same action, a natural question is if they are compatible or not. We study axion inflation with the Chern-Simons term and find that chromonatural inflation can accommodate radiation with a temperature much larger than the Hubble parameter during inflation, which is a characteristic feature of warm inflation. Thus, we conclude that chromonatural warm inflation exists, which must have phenomenologically interesting consequences.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Network Spreading from Network Dimension
Authors: Moore Jack Murdoch , Small Michael , Yan Gang , Yang Huijie , Gu Changgui , Wang Haiying
Published: June 2024

Continuous-state network spreading models provide critical numerical and analytic insights into transmission processes in epidemiology, rumor propagation, knowledge dissemination, and many other areas. Most of these models reflect only local features such as adjacency, degree, and transitivity, so can exhibit substantial error in the presence of global correlations typical of empirical networks. Here, we propose mitigating this limitation via a network property ideally suited to capturing spreading. This is the network correlation dimension, which characterizes how the number of nodes within range of a source typically scales with distance. Applying the approach to susceptible-infected-recovered processes leads to a spreading model which, for a wide range of networks and epidemic parameters, can provide more accurate predictions of the early stages of a spreading process than important established models of substantially higher complexity. In addition, the proposed model leads to a basic reproduction number that provides information about the final state not available from popular established models.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Belonging beyond the binary: the positive experiences of visible non-binary and genderqueer individuals in the workplace
Authors: Trotter Megan , Yates Julia
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The number of people being identified as non-binary and genderqueer (NBGQ) is rapidly increasing, but the literature offers scant guidance for organisations aiming to offer these workers an inclusive environment in which they feel that they belong. This study explores how the positive experiences of NBGQ individuals contribute to their sense of belonging in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with five participants, exploring their positive experiences of belonging at work and the data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA).

Findings

Three higher-order themes were created: allowing authenticity; social support and creating inclusive culture. Findings from this study suggest that NBGQ authenticity, perceived colleague social support and the proactive creation of inclusive organisational cultures interact to develop a sense of belonging for NBGQ individuals in the workplace.

Originality/value

Empirical studies on the experiences of non-binary people at work are almost non-existent. Existing research predominantly explores the negative experiences of NBGQ individuals as a subset of a transgender demographic. This article focuses specifically on the experiences of NBGQ workers and thus contributes to filling this gap in the literature.
Impact of online grocery and food delivery services on food insecurity: a case of US households, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sapkota Sushil C. , Dsouza Alwin , Acharya Ram N.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study assesses the impact of online grocery shopping and food delivery services on food insecurity before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses an online survey of 1,532 respondents. Respondents’ sociodemographics, food consumption, purchasing behavior, food security status, food insecurity coping mechanisms and concerns associated with food safety were asked before and during COVID-19.

Findings

Online grocery shopping and food delivery services increase food insecurity. Moreover, households with female primary shoppers were less likely to be food insecure than households with male primary shoppers. Furthermore, households with children were more likely to be food insecure. Minority households, such as Black, Hispanic, Native American and younger households, were more likely to be food insecure.

Research limitations/implications

Panel data with the same households surveyed before and after COVID-19 would be a better approach. Similarly, the impact of online shopping on food insecurity needs further research, as many factors could be associated with online shopping that impact food insecurity, especially during a crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, a study of the long-term impact of online shopping on food insecurity would be interesting and could present broader and more generalizable results.

Originality/value

The impact of online shopping on food insecurity before and during COVID-19 has yet to be studied sufficiently. Given the increase in popularity of online grocery shopping, its impact on food insecurity still needs to be discovered. Besides online grocery shopping, we also study online food delivery services whose demand has gained momentum over the past few years, including during the pandemic.
Intellectual capital and human dynamic capabilities in decarbonization processes for net-zero business models: an in-depth examination through a systematic literature review
Authors: Di Vaio Assunta , Zaffar Anum , Chhabra Meghna
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Although intellectual capital (IC) and human dynamic capabilities (HDCs) play a significant role in decarbonization processes, their measurement and reporting is under-researched. Hence, this study aims to identify the link between HDCs, carbon accounting and integrated reporting (IR) in the transition processes, investigating IC and HDCs in decarbonization processes to achieve net-zero business models (n-ZBMs).

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review with a concise bibliometric analysis is conducted on 229 articles, published from 1990 to 2023 in Scopus database and Google Scholar. Reviewing data on publications, journals, authors and citations and analysing the article content, this study identifies the main search trends, providing a new conceptual model and future research propositions.

Findings

The results reveal that the literature has rarely focussed on carbon accounting in terms of IC and HDCs. Additionally, firms face pressure from institutions and stakeholders regarding legitimacy and transparency, necessitating a response considering IR and requiring n-ZBMs to be developed through IC and HDCs to meet social and environmental requirements.

Originality/value

Not only does this study link IC with HDCs to address carbon emissions through decarbonization practices, which has never been addressed in the literature to date, but also provides novel recommendations and propositions through which firms can sustainably transition to being net-zero emission firms, thereby gaining competitive advantage and contributing to the nation’s sustainability goals.
Halal tourism ecosystem: networks, institutions and implementations in Indonesia
Authors: Rachmiatie Atie , Setiawan Erik , Zakiah Kiki , Saud Muhammad , Martian Ferra
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the components of a halal tourism ecosystem and how to establish a model for an effective halal tourism ecosystem. Therefore, each component can play a role in encouraging the productivity of halal tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach was applied through in-depth interviews and focus group discussion (FDGs) with representatives of stakeholders who are associated with the development of halal tourism in Indonesia.

Findings

The results show that the effectiveness of the halal tourism ecosystem is primarily determined by the role of the government as an initiator and a policymaker. The halal tourism ecosystem must be run with universal Islamic norms, and it must be avoid exclusive rules.

Originality/value

This research concludes that the symbols in the halal ecosystem are not components that can glue the differences between various organizations and institutions in the context of tourism. However, the role of adhesive is substituted by its practice or implementation that can accommodate shared understandings of Sharia norms.
Israel, As Hurt‐Geography
Authors: Rapport Nigel
Published: June 2024

In this autobiographical narrative, Nigel Rapport recounts how his time as a volunteer at Kibbutz Yas'ur in Israel in 1975 profoundly affected his identity and sparked a deep emotional connection to the country. Despite initial reluctance to visit Israel and engage with his Jewish heritage, Rapport's experiences living and working on the kibbutz ‐ including labouring in the citrus groves, bonding with the kibbutz youth and being embraced by the community ‐ instilled in him a strong sense of belonging, pride, and loyalty to Israel. The essay conveys Rapport's newfound understanding of the precariousness and preciousness of life in Israel, constantly under threat of war and violence. It also expresses his anxiety and protective concern for the country's survival against what he perceives as the hatred and prejudice of its enemies. Rapport's connection to Israel is further cemented by the normalcy of Jewish life there, a stark contrast to the marginalization he felt growing up in Britain. The recent Hamas attacks in 2023, with their devastating loss of life, underscore the enduring ‘hurt geography’ of Rapport's relationship with Israel. The essay ultimately presents a highly personal account of the author's transformative encounter with Israel and Zionism and the complex emotions and loyalties it engendered.
Exploring collaborative practices between teachers and speech and language therapists in inclusive education in Chile and the conditions that influence their development
Authors: González‐Fernández Daniela , Iturra Carolina
Published: June 2024

This study examined the collaborative practices between teachers and speech and language therapists (SLTs) within an inclusive setting, interviewing 17 professionals’ couples. Three distinct phases of collaboration were identified: planning (e.g. reviewing student performance), co‐teaching in the classroom, and evaluation (reflecting upon joint activities). Conditions fostering collaboration were categorized into individual (interpersonal relationships), school‐based (directive management) and policy (current regulations) dimensions. Findings suggest that the extent of collaboration varies and is influenced by interconnected conditions. This research enriches the literature by offering a classification of collaborative work between teachers and SLTs and underscores the conditions impacting it, and is invaluable for stakeholders aiming to advance inclusive educational settings.
Ultra‐processing should be understood as a holistic issue, from food matrix, to dietary patterns, food scoring, and food systems
Authors: Fardet Anthony
Published: June 2024

The ultra‐processed food (UPF) concept first emerged 15 years ago, and is now studied worldwide in different contexts, for example, human health, food behavior, socio‐economic, food consumption, food scoring, and food system sustainability. Briefly, UPFs are defined as containing at least one marker of ultra‐processing (MUP). MUPs are (1) cosmetic additives, (2) aromas, (3) some highly processed carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and/or fiber, and (4) drastic processes directly applied to food such as extrusion cooking or puffing. The first three categories of MUPs are on the food packaging in the list of ingredients, and are extracted, then purified, from raw foods or coming from artificial syntheses, leading to a‐matrix/a‐cellular compounds. Therefore, the core paradigm to define MUP is extreme food matrix degradation, and for UPF, matrix artificialization. Besides, UPFs are more than just junk food, encompassing numerous industrialized foods, falsely presented as healthy, for example, animal‐based food analogs, but also organic, vegan, gluten‐free, micronutrient‐enriched, and/or light foods. In this way, UPFs are “high‐quality junk foods.” Otherwise, UPF being a holistic and indivisible concept by essence, we propose in this review to analyze ultra‐processing at four holistic levels corresponding to four important scientific issues: the food matrix, the dietary pattern, food system, and food scoring. We reached the main conclusion that UPFs should be first studied with a holistic and scientifically based approach, not a reductionist one. Otherwise, we take the risk of performing greenwashing and create still more new health threats at a global level.
Discussing the midwifery scope of practice within the NANDA‐I taxonomy
Authors: Souto Sandra P. , Prata Ana Paula , Albuquerque Rosemeire S. , Caldeira Sílvia
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To discuss the midwifery scope of practice within the NANDA‐I taxonomy.

Methods

Review of the NANDA‐I taxonomy followed by critical analysis of the nursing diagnoses (NDs) within the scope of midwifery practice. Search terms were defined. Two authors independently analyzed all diagnoses, and another author validated the results.

Findings

Of the 267 NDs in the NANDA‐I taxonomy, 39 (14.6%) perceived a relationship with midwifery's scope of practice, and among these, 15 (5.6%) guaranteed greater specificity and accuracy for clinical reasoning.

Conclusions

The suitability of NDs for the broad spectrum of the midwifery scope of practice may need to be completed. Women's responses to life events and health conditions are simultaneously complex and specific, and many NDs in the NANDA‐I terminology may be far from fully identified and developed to represent these responses.

Implications for nursing practice

Improvements in NANDA‐I diagnosis would contribute to advanced terminology and increased specificity and accuracy of the diagnostic process. This is important in achieving appropriate outcomes and safe and effective interventions for which the nurses and nurse‐midwives are accountable. Many NDs would not necessarily be used in any other context since they are specific to midwifery; however, it would help to develop a NANDA‐I taxonomy that is more inclusive and comprehensive internationally.
Genetic basis of phenotypic convergence in pig terminal sires using pathway‐based selection signature detection methods
Authors: Li Jinhua , Li Wangjiao , Peng Xia , Li Xinyun , Zhao Shuhong , Wang Haiyan , Ma Yunlong
Published: June 2024

The primary purpose of genetic improvement in lean pig breeds is to enhance production performance. Owing to their similar breeding directions, Duroc and Pietrain pigs are ideal models for investigating the phenotypic convergence underlying artificial selection. However, most important economic traits are controlled by a polygenic basis, so traditional strategies for detecting selection signatures may not fully reveal the genetic basis of complex traits. The pathway‐based gene network analysis method utilizes each pathway as a unit, overcoming the limitations of traditional strategies for detecting selection signatures by revealing the selection of complex biological processes. Here, we utilized 13 122 398 high‐quality SNPs from whole‐genome sequencing data of 48 Pietrain pigs, 156 Duroc pigs and 36 European wild boars to detect selective signatures. After calculating FST and iHS scores, we integrated the pathway information and utilized the r/bioconductor graphite and signet packages to construct gene networks, identify subnets and uncover candidate genes underlying selection. Using the traditional strategy, a total of 47 genomic regions exhibiting parallel selection were identified. The enriched genes, including INO80, FZR1, LEPR and FAF1, may be associated with reproduction, fat deposition and skeletal development. Using the pathway‐based selection signatures detection method, we identified two significant biological pathways and eight potential candidate genes underlying parallel selection, such as VTN, FN1 and ITGAV. This study presents a novel strategy for investigating the genetic basis of complex traits and elucidating the phenotypic convergence underlying artificial selection, by integrating traditional selection signature methods with pathway‐based gene network analysis.
Serum growth differentiation factor 15 is a novel biomarker with high predictive capability for liver cancer occurrence in patients with MASLD regardless of liver fibrosis
Authors: Kumazaki Shusuke , Hikita Hayato , Tahata Yuki , Sung Ji Hyun , Fukumoto Kenji , Myojin Yuta , Sakane Sadatsugu , Murai Kazuhiro , Sasaki Yoichi , Shirai Kumiko , Saito Yoshinobu , Kodama Takahiro , Kakita Naruyasu , Takahashi Hirokazu , Toyoda Hidenori , Suda Goki , Morii Eiichi , Kojima Takashi , Ebihara Takeshi , Shimizu Kentaro , Sasaki Yutaka , Tatsumi Tomohide , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Although metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) patients with a Fib‐4 index >1.3 are recommended for fibrosis evaluation via elastography or biopsy, a more convenient method identifying high‐risk populations requiring follow‐up is needed. We explored the utility of serum levels of growth differentiation factor‐15 (GDF15), a cell stress‐responsive cytokine related to metabolic syndrome, for stratifying the risk of clinical events in MASLD patients.

Methods

Serum GDF15 levels were measured in 518 biopsy‐performed MASLD patients, 216 MASLD patients for validation, and 361 health checkup recipients with MASLD.

Results

In the biopsy‐MASLD cohort, multivariate analysis indicated that the serum GDF15 level was a risk factor for liver cancer, independent of the fibrosis stage or Fib‐4 index. Using a GDF15 cutoff of 1.75 ng/mL based on the Youden index, high‐GDF15 patients, regardless of fibrosis status, had a higher liver cancer incidence rate. While patients with a Fib‐4 index <1.3 or low‐GDF15 rarely developed liver cancer, high‐GDF15 patients with a Fib‐4 index >1.3 developed liver cancer and decompensated liver events at significantly higher rates and had poorer prognoses. In the validation cohort, high‐GDF15 patients had significantly higher incidences of liver cancer and decompensated liver events and poorer prognoses than low‐GDF15 patients, whether limited to high‐Fib‐4 patients. Among health checkup recipients with MASLD, 23.0% had a Fib‐4 index >1.3, 2.7% had a Fib‐4 index >1.3 and >1.75 ng/mL GDF15.

Conclusions

Serum GDF15 is a biomarker for liver cancer with high predictive capability and is useful for identifying MASLD patients requiring regular surveillance.
ERNEST COST action overview on the (patho)physiology of GPCRs and orphan GPCRs in the nervous system
Authors: Birgül Iyison Necla , Abboud Clauda , Abboud Dayana , Abdulrahman Abdulrasheed O. , Bondar Ana‐Nicoleta , Dam Julie , Georgoussi Zafiroula , Giraldo Jesús , Horvat Anemari , Karoussiotis Christos , Paz‐Castro Alba , Scarpa Miriam , Schihada Hannes , Scholz Nicole , Güvenc Tuna Bilge , Vardjan Nina
Published: June 2024

G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a large family of cell surface receptors that play a critical role in nervous system function by transmitting signals between cells and their environment. They are involved in many, if not all, nervous system processes, and their dysfunction has been linked to various neurological disorders representing important drug targets. This overview emphasises the GPCRs of the nervous system, which are the research focus of the members of ERNEST COST action (CA18133) working group ‘Biological roles of signal transduction’. First, the (patho)physiological role of the nervous system GPCRs in the modulation of synapse function is discussed. We then debate the (patho)physiology and pharmacology of opioid, acetylcholine, chemokine, melatonin and adhesion GPCRs in the nervous system. Finally, we address the orphan GPCRs, their implication in the nervous system function and disease, and the challenges that need to be addressed to deorphanize them.
Effects of computerized cognitive training on functional brain networks in patients with vascular cognitive impairment and no dementia
Authors: Li Qiong‐Ge , Xing Yi , Zhu Zu‐De , Fei Xiao‐Lu , Tang Yi , Lu Jie
Published: June 2024

Aims

Previous neuroimaging studies of vascular cognitive impairment, no dementia (VCIND), have reported functional alterations, but far less is known about the effects of cognitive training on functional connectivity (FC) of intrinsic connectivity networks (ICNs) and how they relate to intervention‐related cognitive improvement. This study provides comprehensive research on the changes in intra‐ and inter‐brain functional networks in patients with VCIND who received computerized cognitive training, with a focus on the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies.

Methods

We prospectively collected 60 patients with VCIND who were randomly divided into the training group (N = 30) receiving computerized cognitive training and the control group (N = 30) receiving fixed cognitive training. Functional MRI scans and cognitive assessments were performed at baseline, at the 7‐week training, and at the 6‐month follow‐up. Utilizing templates for ICNs, the study employed a linear mixed model to compare intra‐ and inter‐network FC changes between the two groups. Pearson correlation was applied to calculate the relationship between FC and cognitive function.

Results

We found significantly decreased intra‐network FC within the default mode network (DMN) following computerized cognitive training at Month 6 (p = 0.034), suggesting a potential loss of functional specialization. Computerized training led to increased functional coupling between the DMN and sensorimotor network (SMN) (p = 0.01) and between the language network (LN) and executive control network (ECN) at Month 6 (p < 0.001), indicating compensatory network adaptations in patients with VCIND. Notably, the intra‐LN exhibited enhanced functional specialization after computerized cognitive training (p = 0.049), with significant FC increases among LN regions, which correlated with improvements in neuropsychological measures (p < 0.05), emphasizing the targeted impact of computerized cognitive training on language abilities.

Conclusions

This study provides insights into neuroplasticity and adaptive changes resulting from cognitive training in patients with VCIND, with implications for potential therapeutic strategies.
Does the European Union's rule of law require the criminalisation of EU public officials? A first appraisal
Authors: di Martino Alberto
Published: June 2024

This article emphasises the role of criminal law as a strategic form of accountability aimed at safeguarding the EU rule of law, especially when public officials are entrusted with powers that may violate fundamental rights. Abuses committed in the context of border management serve as a case study and a test bench for the more general argument developed in the contribution. It is argued that criminal law—through sanctioning serious abuse of power irrespective of any lucrative intent—contributes to the legitimacy of policies and actions carried out in the name of the union. As impunity gaps may result from the difficult application of domestic law, the article maintains that it is necessary to stigmatise at the union's level such misdeeds that go beyond cases of mere bad policy or ‘maladministration’. It therefore advocates for a directive requiring Member States to criminalise abuse of powers, which are in breach of the rule of law as one of the foundational values enshrined in Article 2 TEU.
Contribution of ultrasound examination in diagnosing platynosomiasis and correlation with macro and microscopic findings in callitrichids kept under human care
Authors: Málaga Soraya Kezam , de Souza Balbueno Melina Castilho , Martins Jéssica Amâncio , da Costa Leonardo Dourado , de Sousa Barbosa Maria Luiza , Marcili Arlei , de Paula Coelho Cidéli
Published: June 2024

Background

Platynosomiasis in non‐human primates kept under human care causes chronic disease of the bile ducts and liver, which initially presents with nonspecific signs and can culminate in the death of the animal. Diagnosing this disease is a challenge, and an ultrasound examination can be an excellent tool when it is suspected.

Methods

This study describes the ultrasound findings from 57 marmosets with suspected infection by Platynosomum sp., the correlated hepatobiliary changes, and the anatomopathological findings that confirmed the occurrence of platynosomiasis.

Results

In six marmosets (one C. aurita, two C. jacchus, and three Callithrix sp.), Platynosomum infection was confirmed macroscopically (presence of adult trematodes in the gallbladder) and microscopically (adults, larvae, and eggs in histological examinations and eggs in bile and feces). These findings were compatible with the hepatobiliary changes and with images suggestive of parasitic structures in ante‐mortem assessments.

Conclusion

Ultrasound examination demonstrated its usefulness within the clinical routine for investigating this parasitosis.
Investigating key factors of feeding intolerance in severe acute pancreatitis: A scoping review
Authors: Gu Yujia , Solomon O. Mensah , Wei Yehong
Published: June 2024

Background

The complexity of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) and the stress caused by the disease is associated with a high incidence of feeding intolerance. However, the factors influencing feeding incontinence in patients with SAP are diverse.

Aims

To systematically analyse relevant studies that investigate the occurrence of feeding intolerance in patients with SAP, identify the relevant factors of feeding intolerance in such patients and provide a reference for nursing staff to develop relevant intervention measures.

Design and Methods

This scoping review followed the approach proposed by Arksey and O'Malley. Seven electronic databases were searched from their establishment until August 2023. This included research on the factors influencing feeding intolerance in patients with SAP, determining research questions, completing literature screening and quality evaluation, extracting data and summarizing and analysing the data. The PRISMA extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA‐ScR) statement has also been included.

Results

A total of 23 articles were included. The factors influencing feeding intolerance in patients with SAP included the patient's condition, disease, treatment, feeding management and follow‐up care.

Conclusions

The factors affecting feeding intolerance in patients with SAP are multifaceted. A personalized nursing care plan should be developed based on relevant risk factors to improve feeding tolerance and comfort in patients with SAP and shorten hospitalization time.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Intensive care nurses should identify the risk factors for feeding intolerance in patients with SAP and implement appropriate interventions. To identify the risk factors, nurses must be updated with courses and training. Moreover, a systematic feeding intolerance prediction program can help intensive care nurses effectively identify the risk factors for feeding.