bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Placental PFAS concentrations are associated with perturbations of placental DNA methylation at loci with important roles on cardiometabolic health
Authors: Everson Todd M. , Sehgal Neha , Barr Dana Boyd , Panuwet Parinya , Yakimavets Volha , Perez Cynthia , Shankar Kartik , Eick Stephanie M. , Pearson Kevin J. , Andres Aline
Published: May 2024

The placenta is crucial for fetal development, is affected by PFAS toxicity, and evidence is accumulating that gestational PFAS perturb the epigenetic activity of the placenta. Gestational PFAS exposure is can adversely affect offspring, yet individual and cumulative impacts of PFAS on the placental epigenome remain underexplored. Here, we conducted an epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) to examine the relationships between placental PFAS levels and DNA methylation in a cohort of mother-infant dyads in Arkansas. We measured 17 PFAS in human placental tissues and quantified placental DNA methylation levels via the Illumina EPIC Microarray. We tested for differential DNA methylation with individual PFAS, and with mixtures of multiple PFAS. Our results demonstrated that numerous epigenetic loci were perturbed by PFAS, with PFHxS exhibiting the most abundant effects. Mixture analyses suggested cumulative effects of PFOA and PFOS, while PFHxS may act more independently. We additionally explored whether sex-specific effects may be present and concluded that future large studies should explicitly test for sex-specific effects. The genes that are annotated to our PFAS-associated epigenetic loci are primarily involved in growth processes and cardiometabolic health, while some genes are involved in neurodevelopment. These findings shed light on how prenatal PFAS exposures affect birth outcomes and children’s health, emphasizing the importance of understanding PFAS mechanisms in the in-utero environment.
Remote automated delivery of mechanical stimuli coupled to brain recordings in behaving mice
Authors: Burdge Justin , Jhumka Anissa , Ogundare Simon , Baer Nicholas , Fulton Sasha , Bistis Brittany , Foster William , Toussaint Andre , Li Miao , Morizawa Yosuke M. , Yadessa Leah , Khan Ashar , Delinois Abednego , Mayiseni Wadzanayi , Loran Noah , Yang Guang , Abdus-Saboor Ishmail
Published: May 2024

The canonical framework for testing pain and mechanical sensitivity in rodents is manual delivery of stimuli to the paw. However, this approach can produce variability in results, requires significant training, and is ergonomically unfavorable to the experimenter. To circumvent limitations in manual delivery of stimuli, we have created a device called the ARM (AutomatedReproducibleMechano-stimulator). Built using a series of linear stages, cameras, and stimulus holders, the ARM is more accurate at hitting the desired target, delivers stimuli faster, and decreases variability in delivery of von Frey hair filaments. We demonstrate that the ARM can be combined with traditional measurements of pain behavior and automated machine-learning based pipelines. Importantly, the ARM enables remote testing of mice with experimenters outside the testing room. Using remote testing, we found that mice appeared to habituate more quickly when an experimenter was not present and experimenter presence leads to significant sex-dependent differences in withdrawal behavior. Lastly, to demonstrate the utility of the ARM for neural circuit dissection of pain mechanisms, we combined the ARM with cellular-resolved microendoscopy in the amygdala, linking stimulus, behavior, and brain activity of amygdalar neurons that encode negative pain states. Taken together, the ARM improves speed, accuracy, and robustness of mechanical pain assays and can be combined with automated pain detection systems and brain recordings to map pain sensation and affect.
Explainable models using transcription factor binding and epigenome patterns at promoters reveal disease-associated genes and their regulators in the context of cell-types
Authors: Chandra Omkar , Pramanik Durjay , Gautam Srishti , Sharma Madhu , Dubey Niharika , Mahato Biswarup , Orlov Yuriy L , Kumar Vibhor
Published: May 2024

Understanding genome-wide epigenetic regulation of diseases is important in establishing pathogenic factors and could aid in disease diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutics. In this study, we have utilized transcription factors (TFs) and co-factor profiles (n=823) as features in machine learning models to link them to various diseases. Further, along with TFs and co-factor profiles, histone modifications ChIP-seq (n = 621), cap analysis gene expression (CAGE) tags (n = 255), and DNase hypersensitivity profiles (n = 255) as features allowed for the modeling of association of coding and non-coding genes to diseases. Such predicted associations could be independently validated using genome-wide association data and survival analysis. However, the unique aspect of our approach is that it highlights the link between TF binding patterns and diseases in the context of cell types. Besides highlighting relevant TF-binding in known cell-types associated with diseases, it also provided their surprising link with TFs expressed in immune cells and other seemingly non-related cells. Further investigation revealed such links to be genuine and potentially useful for prognosis, further revealing the need to deconvolve a set of known genes associated with diseases.
Laminar RNNs: using biologically-inspired network topology on the cortical laminar level in memory tasks
Authors: Shamir Ittai , Assaf Yaniv
Published: May 2024

Advancements in neuroscience and artificial intelligence have been fueling one another for decades. In this study, we integrate a neuroimaging model of laminar-level connectomics into a biologically-inspired deep learning model of recurrent neural networks (RNNs) for working memory tasks. The resulting model offers a way to incorporate a more comprehensive representation of brain topology into artificial intelligence without diminishing the performance of the network compared to previous models.
Generic workflow for a rapid and easy design of strain-specific PCR and qPCR primers, applied to the assessment of bacterial strains survival in soil
Authors: Polrot A. , Béguet J. , Devers-Lamrani M. , Martin-Laurent F. , Spor A.
Published: May 2024

Background

Detecting bacteria at the strain level is crucial in microbiology. Although qPCR is widely used, designing strain-specific primers remains a challenge due to nucleotide sequence similarities among related strains.

Methods and Results

This paper introduces a simplified, web-based workflow for designing strain-specific primers using publicly available microbial genomes. The method does not require advanced bioinformatics skills and can be applied using a basic computer. Primers designed using this workflow are applied to assess the survival of two closeBacillusstrains in soil microcosms.

Conclusion

The workflow offers an accessible solution for accurate bacterial strain detection, and fills a gap for researchers without specialized training in bioinformatics.
Investigation of the mechanism of accelerated biodegradation ofParacoccus-KDSPL-02
Authors: Wang Peng , Xu Shanxiang , Shen Chen , Ma Jiewen , Cheng Feiyu , Liu Jingyu
Published: May 2024

Paracoccus-KDSPL-02can accelerate to degrade penicillin G under light remain poorly understood, largely due to the lack of high-throughput genome engineering tools. Firstly, this study sequenced the genome ofParacoccus-KDSPL-02and mined the genes that might be involved, and in order to understand in detail whether the expression of the mined genes changed during light. Further, for genes with altering transcriptional levels under light, this study obtained PROKKA_01468 which a photoreceptor protein inParacoccus-KDSPL-02. In the end, for validating the function of PROKKA_01468, this study knocked down the sequence of the PROKKA_01468 by applying gene editing system, and the knockdown strain showed significant change in the rate of degradation of phenylacetic acid, which is the intermediate product of penicillin G degradation, by light compared with darkness, so that the PROKKA_01468 is the most effective photoreceptor protein inParacoccus-KDSPL-02.

Synopsis

This research elucidates a molecular mechanism capable of accelerating penicillin G degradation in wastewater, with significant implications for environmental science.
Assessing the Risk of Depression Among U.S. Adults with Resolved Thyroid Dysfunction--data analysis from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2013–2018)
Authors: Zhan Denghuang , Chen Pinyu , Karim Ehsan
Published: May 2024

Background

Depression is a highly-prevalent disease among US adults. The positive association between thyroid dysfunction and depression has been identified in many studies, but whether the thyroid dysfunction history (have recovered) is still associated with depression, and whether this association is modified by gender is still unknown. This finding can be important for depression preventions.

Methods

We applied design-adjusted multivariable logistic regression to examine the adjusted association between thyroid dysfunction history and depression by using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2013 to 2018.

Results

Of 11975 respondents with complete responses included in this study, 8.4% (n = 1007) of the respondents have depression. The design-adjusted analysis shows no significant association between the thyroid dysfunction history and depression but shows gender as a significant effect modifier of the association. The association is 3.31(odds ratio, 95% CI: [1.38,7.93]) for males and 1.15 (odds ratio, 95% CI: [0.72, 1.84]) for females.

Conclusion

People who had thyroid dysfunction but recovered will still have a higher risk of getting depression, and it differs in genders. More suggestions and actions are needed for those who recovered from the thyroid dysfunction in order to prevent depression, especially for the males.
A framework for a brain-derived nosology of psychiatric disorders
Authors: Lett Tristram A. , Vaidya Nilakshi , Jia Tianye , Polemiti Elli , Banaschewski Tobias , Bokde Arun L.W. , Flor Herta , Grigis Antoine , Garavan Hugh , Gowland Penny , Heinz Andreas , Brüh Rüdiger , Martinot Jean-Luc , Martinot Marie-Laure Paillère , Artiges Eric , Nees Frauke , Orfanos Dimitri Papadopoulos , Lemaitre Herve , Paus Tomáš , Poustka Luise , Stringaris Argyris , Waller Lea , Zhang Zuo , Robinson Lauren , Winterer Jeanne , Zhang Yuning , King Sinead , Smolka Michael N. , Whelan Robert , Schmidt Ulrike , Sinclair Julia , Walter Henrik , Feng Jianfeng , Robbins Trevor W. , Desrivières Sylvane , Marquand Andre , Schumann Gunter ,   IMAGEN Consortium,   environMENTAL Consortium
Published: May 2024

Current psychiatric diagnoses are not defined by neurobiological measures which hinders the development of therapies targeting mechanisms underlying mental illness1,2. Research confined to diagnostic boundaries yields heterogeneous biological results, whereas transdiagnostic studies often investigate individual symptoms in isolation. There is currently no paradigm available to comprehensively investigate the relationship between different clinical symptoms, individual disorders, and the underlying neurobiological mechanisms. Here, we propose a framework that groups clinical symptoms derived from ICD-10/DSM-V according to shared brain mechanisms defined by brain structure, function, and connectivity. The reassembly of existing ICD-10/DSM-5 symptoms reveal six cross-diagnostic psychopathology scores related to mania symptoms, depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, stress symptoms, eating pathology, and fear symptoms. They were consistently associated with multimodal neuroimaging components in the training sample of young adults aged 23, the independent test sample aged 23, participants aged 14 and 19 years, and in psychiatric patients. The identification of symptom groups of mental illness robustly defined by precisely characterized brain mechanisms enables the development of a psychiatric nosology based upon quantifiable neurobiological measures. As the identified symptom groups align well with existing diagnostic categories, our framework is directly applicable to clinical research and patient care.
Nanopore sequencing reveals that DNA replication compartmentalisation dictates genome stability and instability inTrypanosoma brucei
Authors: Krasiļņikova Marija , Marques Catarina A. , Briggs Emma M. , Lapsley Craig , Hamilton Graham , Beraldi Dario , Crouch Kathryn , McCulloch Richard
Published: May 2024

The genome ofTrypanosoma bruceiis structurally complex. Eleven megabase-sized chromosomes each comprise a transcribed core flanked by silent subtelomeres, housing thousands ofVariant Surface Glycoprotein(VSG) genes. Additionally, silentVSGsare also found on hundreds of sub-megabase chromosomes that harbour 177 bp repeats of unknown function, and multipleVSGtranscription sites localise to the telomeres of both chromosome types. DNA replication dynamics have been described in the megabase chromosome cores but not in the subtelomeres or sub-megabase chromosomes, and targeted early replication of the single activeVSGtranscription site is unexplained. Here, using Nanopore assembly, we mapped DNA replication across this compartmentalised genome. We show that subtelomeres display a paucity of replication initiation events relative to the core, correlating with increased instability in the silentVSGarchive. In addition, early replication of the activeVSGtranscription site is shown to originate from the telomere, likely causing targetedVSGrecombination. Lastly, we demonstrate that the 177 bp repeats act as widespread, conserved DNA replication origins, explaining mitotic stability of the abundant small chromosomes and early DNA replication of megabase chromosome centromeres. Compartmentalized DNA replication dynamics therefore explains howT. bruceibalances stable genome transmission with localised instability driving immune evasion.
PEG-mCherry interactions beyond classical macromolecular crowding
Authors: Haas-Neill Liam , Joron Khalil , Lerner Eitan , Rauscher Sarah
Published: May 2024

The dense cellular environment influences bio-macromolecular structure, dynamics, interactions and function. Despite advancements in understanding protein-crowder interactions, predicting their precise effects on protein structure and function remains challenging. Here, we elucidate the effects of PEG-induced crowding on the fluorescent protein mCherry using molecular dynamics simulations and fluorescence-based experiments. We identify and characterize specific PEG-induced structural and dynamical changes in mCherry. Importantly, we find interactions in which PEG molecules wrap around specific surface-exposed residues in a binding mode previously observed in protein crystal structures. Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy experiments capture PEG-induced changes, including aggregation, suggesting a potential role for the specific PEG-mCherry interactions identified in simulations. Additionally, mCherry fluorescence lifetimes are influenced by PEG and not by the bulkier crowder dextran or by another linear polymer, polyvinyl alcohol, highlighting the importance of crowder-protein soft interactions. This work augments our understanding of macromolecular crowding effects on protein structure and dynamics.
Ionizing radiation has negligible effects on the age, telomere length, and corticosterone levels of Chornobyl tree frogs
Authors: Burraco Pablo , Gabor Caitlin , Bryant Amanda , Gardette Vanessa , Lengagne Thierry , Bonzom Jean-Marc , Orizaola Germán
Published: May 2024

Pollutants, such as ionizing radiation, released at high levels by human activities can shape ecological and evolutionary processes. The accident occurred at Chornobyl nuclear power plant (Ukraine, April 1986) contaminated a large extension of territory after the deposition of radioactive material. Beyond the immediate negative impact caused by the accident, it is still under debate whether the chronic exposure to the radiation levels currently present in the area signifies a serious threat for organisms. One hypothesis suggests that current levels of radiation may cause unobservable damage in the short-term, but have long-term effects such as decreases in longevity. Here, we investigate through a field-based approach, whether current levels of radiation in Chornobyl negatively impact the age of a semi-aquatic vertebrate, the Eastern tree frogHyla orientalis. We also explore whether radiation induces changes in an ageing marker, telomere length, or in the stress hormone corticosterone. We found no effect of total individual absorbed radiation (including both external and internal exposure) on frog age (n = 197 individuals sampled in three consecutive years). We also did not find any relationship between individual absorbed radiation and telomere length, but a negative relationship between individual absorbed radiation and corticosterone levels. Our results suggest that radiation levels currently experienced by tree frogs in Chornobyl may not be high enough to cause severe chronic damage to semi-aquatic vertebrates such as this species. This is the first study addressing age and stress hormones in Chornobyl wildlife, and thus future research will confirm if these results can be extended to other taxa.
Probiotic Lactobacilli activate Formyl-Peptide Receptor 2
Authors: Dorothee Kretschmer , Ralf Rosenstein , Ahmed Elsherbini , Bernhard Krismer , O’Toole Paul W. , David Gerlach , Andreas Peschel
Published: May 2024

Changes in the composition of the human microbiota can negatively impact human health. Probiotic bacteria like many lactobacilli help prevent or repair dysbiosis but it is largely unclear which molecules of these bacteria mediate the probiotic effects. Given the extensive crosstalk between the immune system and microbiome members, we investigated whether lactobacilli activate the formyl-peptide receptor 2 (FPR2), a pattern recognition receptor that is expressed on the surface of intestinal epithelial cells and known to promote wound healing and immune homeostasis.

Probiotic strains ofLacticaseibacillus paracasei, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, andLacticaseibacillus rhamnosuswere isolated from probiotic compounds and sequenced. Calcium influx experiments in FPR1 or FPR2 overexpressing HL60 cells, and primary human neutrophils, along with pharmacological inhibition of FPR2, revealed that culture filtrates of the isolated lactobacilli strongly activate FPR2, promote killing of the methicillin resistantS. aureusUSA300 and induce neutrophil chemotaxis. Pretreatment of culture filtrates with proteinase K reduced FPR2 activity, indicating that the FPR2 ligands are peptides. In silico analysis of the amphipathic properties of the signal peptides of lactic acid bacteria identified selected signal peptides ofL. plantarumwith the ability to predominantly activate FPR2in vitro. Thereby, via targeted activation of FPR2, peptides released by some lactobacilli are likely to positively influence the outcome of inflammatory gut diseases and could be used to treat inflammatory diseases.
Functional plasticity of HCO3-uptake and CO2fixation inCupriavidus necatorH16
Authors: Panich Justin , Toppari Emili , Tejedor-Sanz Sara , Fong Bonnie , Dugan Eli , Chen Yan , Petzold Christopher J. , Zhao Zhiying , Yoshikuni Yasuo , Savage David F. , Singer Steven W.
Published: May 2024

Uptake and fixation of CO2are central to strategies for CO2-based biomanufacturing.Cupriavidus necatorH16 has emerged as a promising industrial host for this purpose. Despite its prominence, the ability to engineerC. necatorinorganic carbon uptake and fixation is underexplored. Here, we test the role of endogenous and heterologous genes onC. necatorinorganic carbon metabolism. Deletion of one of the four carbonic anhydrases inC. necator, β-carbonic anhydrasecan, had the most deleterious effect onC. necatorautotrophic growth. Replacement of this native uptake system with several classes of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) transporters fromCyanobacteriaand chemolithoautotrophic bacteria recovered autotrophic growth and supported higher cell densities compared to wild-type (WT)C. necatorin saturating CO2in batch culture. Several heterologous strains withHalothiobacillus neopolitanusDAB2 (hnDAB2) expressed from the chromosome in combination with diverse rubisco homologs grew in CO2equally or better than the wild-type strain. Our experiments suggest that the primary role of Can carbonic anhydrase during autotrophic growth is for bicarbonate accumulation to support anaplerotic metabolism, and an array of DIC transporters can complement this function. This work demonstrates flexibility in HCO3-uptake and CO2fixation inC. necator, providing new pathways for CO2-based biomanufacturing.

Graphical abstract
Quantum squeezing via self-induced transparency in a photonic crystal fiber
Authors: Najafabadi M. S. , Sánchez-Soto L. L. , Corney J. F. , Kalinin N. , Sorokin A. A. , Leuchs G.
Published: May 2024

We study the quantum squeezing produced in self-induced transparency in a photonic crystal fiber by performing a fully quantum simulation based on the positive P representation. The amplitude squeezing depends on the area of the initial pulse: When the area is 2π, there is no energy absorption and no amplitude squeezing. However, when the area is between 2π and 3π, one observes amplitude-dependent energy absorption and a significant amount of squeezing. We also investigate the effect of damping, detuning, and temperature: The results indicate that a heightened atom-pulse coupling, caused by an increase in the spontaneous emission ratio, reduces the amplitude squeezing.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Female leadership in sports coaching: a case analysis of Chinese coaches through the ability–motivation–opportunity framework
Authors: Gao Qiuling , Zhuang Xiaolin , Li Zijie , Wang Yan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how the role of female leadership works in sports coaching. Drawing key insights from the ability–motivation–opportunity (AMO) framework of human resource management, the authors explore the underlying mechanisms of female leadership and the role female coaches play in enabling athletes to develop their self-initiative through AMO enhancement.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample in this study is made up of 11female coaches from eight teams in China selected using purposive sampling. Data was collected and analyzed on various aspects of female leadership.

Findings

Analysis of interviews and secondary data show that the mechanisms and enablers related to AMO enhancing practices stimulated by female coaching leadership can increase team performance.

Research limitations/implications

This study opens new avenues for sports science research and strengthens the theoretical and practical understanding of the intentions and mechanisms female coaches implement as leaders in sports coaching.

Originality/value

First, this study contributes to the AMO framework by helping form new theoretical insights based on the understanding of female sports coaching mechanisms. Second, this study provides novel insights into female leadership literature by investigating the mechanisms of female leadership in the context of sports exercise. Third, this study also contributes to the body of research on sports coaching in Asia, especially that of Chinese women in such leadership roles.
Patterns and trends of university-industry research collaboration in Ghana between 2011 and 2020
Authors: Danquah Monica Mensah , Onyancha Omwoyo Bosire , Avuglah Bright Kwaku
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The ranking of universities and other research-intensive institutions in global ranking systems is based on numerous indicators, including number of articles with external collaboration, number of articles with international collaboration, number of articles with industry collaboration as well as co-patents with industry. The purpose of this paper is to examine university–industry research collaboration in Ghana, with the aim of exploring the relationship between the research output collaborations in the top four universities in Ghana and industry across different geographical scales.

Design/methodology/approach

This study’s data was obtained from the SciVal database, which drawn its data from the Scopus bibliographic and citation database. The bibliographic and citation data were extracted using a search of the publications affiliated to the University of Ghana, for the period 2011–2020.

Findings

Key findings demonstrate a constant rise in the number of research publications by the selected universities over time. Research collaboration intensity in the selected universities in terms of co-authored publications was higher as compared to single-authored publications. University–industry research co-authorships were, however, lower when compared to university–university research co-authorships. The university–industry research co-authorships occurred mostly with Europe, Asia-Pacific and North American-based institutions as opposed to African-based institutions. In Ghana, four industry-based institutions were engaged in intensive research with the selected universities.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates that, for each selected university, it is possible to measure the performance of individual universities in both intra-regional and international collaboration. Such results may be useful in informing policy as well as merit-based public funding of universities in Ghana.
Facilitating corporate sustainability integration: innovation in family firms
Authors: Nguyen Linh H. , Kanbach Dominik K. , Kraus Sascha
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to understand the relationship between family-driven innovation and the incorporation of corporate sustainability in German family firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The study conducted 26 interviews with 22 German family firms. Thematic analysis was undertaken on the collected data resulting in five major themes.

Findings

The study identified five main themes of corporate sustainability-oriented innovation in family firms, which include measuring corporate sustainability performances, building corporate sustainability-oriented infrastructure, stabilizing/optimizing operations, enhancing operational flexibility/independence and knowledge management and development. The study also provides an activity-based guide for family firms to use innovation to achieve corporate sustainability goals and present the findings’ implications for policymakers.

Originality/value

The present study is the first study to empirically investigate the relationship between family-driven innovation and the incorporation of corporate sustainability at each of the corporate sustainability maturity levels.
Real‐world efficacy and safety of BRAF‐targeted therapy for patients with advanced melanoma: A single‐center retrospective study in Japan
Authors: Nakano Eiji , Takahashi Akira , Ogata Dai , Namikawa Kenjiro , Yamazaki Naoya
Published: May 2024

Most clinical trials investigating targeted therapies for patients harboring BRAF V600 mutations have included mostly White patients, and data for Asian patients are scarce. Although there are several retrospective studies in Japanese patients, they have investigated only the dabrafenib + trametinib regimen, and have had a short follow‐up period. We conducted a single‐center retrospective study to update previous studies and compare the outcomes with those in White patients. We analyzed 89 patients who received dabrafenib + trametinib or encorafenib + binimetinib, including 11 who received both treatment regimens. The overall response rate was 79.8%, with complete response in 25 patients (28.1%) and partial response in 45 patients (51.7%). The median progression‐free survival was 13.7 months, and the median overall survival was 32.9 months. The 3‐year progression‐free and overall survival rates were 31.8% and 47.9%, respectively. Although the two regimens showed no significant differences in efficacy, their safety profiles differed, as reported in clinical trials. Therefore, the most frequent adverse event associated with the dabrafenib + trametinib regimen was pyrexia (61.3%) and that of encorafenib + binimetinib was blurred vision (32.0%). Switching directly to another targeted therapy after progressive disease showed no clinical response; however, rechallenge followed by immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy showed a certain response. As a prognostic factor, performance status was associated with progression‐free survival, and performance status, serum lactate dehydrogenase level, and dose interruption were associated with overall survival in the multivariate analysis. Real‐world data on targeted therapy for patients with melanoma in Japan suggest that both dabrafenib + trametinib and encorafenib + binimetinib show similar efficacy and safety in Asian and White patients.
Predicting regional cumulative effects of future development on coastal ecosystems to support Indigenous governance
Authors: Tulloch Vivitskaia J. D. , Adams Megan , Finn Riley , Bourbonnais Mathieu , Avery‐Gomm Stephanie , Penn Briony , Martin Tara G.
Published: May 2024

To achieve better biodiversity outcomes and match local governance capacity, cumulative effects assessment frameworks that combine Indigenous and western knowledge to predict future development impacts on biodiversity are needed.

We developed a spatial future‐focused model informed by inclusive elicitation and strategic foresight to assess the regional cumulative effects of development on ecosystem health across the land and sea. We collaborated with three First Nations on the Central Coast of British Columbia, Canada, enabling Indigenous priorities, knowledge and values to drive the process, from the choice of priority ecosystem components (including salmon, herring, seabirds and bears), to identifying future development scenarios (based on forestry, energy/mining, tourism and salmon aquaculture sectors). Bayesian networks were populated with empirical data and expert judgement elicited from knowledge holders to predict the cumulative effects of current and future pressures on species and ecosystems.

Under current conditions, the lowest probability of persistence was predicted for Pacific salmon (37%), followed by Pacific herring (43%). Under future conditions, the greatest declines in species health were associated with the intense development of mining, tourism and forestry, with up to a 54% decline from the current baseline health estimates predicted for Marbled Murrelets and old‐growth forest.

Future outcomes for overall ecosystem health were predicted to be worst in scenarios with high future forestry activities (>60% decline in some areas). The continuation or development of all four industries resulted in an 8% decline overall in ecosystem health across the Central Coast. In contrast, predicted ecosystem health in the tourism economy scenario increased up to 15% in some marine areas, primarily driven by the removal of salmon aquaculture and forestry activities.

Synthesis and applications. Our study demonstrates an inclusive, regional approach to assessing the cumulative effects of future development on coastal species. The novel participatory tools and predictive framework draw upon and interweave multiple forms of knowledge, enabling Indigenous values to drive the process, and appropriately integrate Indigenous knowledge into regional cumulative effects assessment. Our interactive web application provides First Nations partners access to all outputs, supporting Indigenous‐led governance and in situ ecosystem‐based management of their lands and water.
Another look at energy consumption and environmental sustainability target through the lens of the load capacity factor: Accessing evidence from MINT economies
Authors: Bekun Festus Victor , Uzuner Gizem , Meo Muhammad Saeed , Yadav Ashutosh
Published: May 2024

The relationship between energy utilization and the environment is crucial in an era of environmental concerns by global economies and rising energy consumption. Emerging economies such as Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Turkey (hereafter, MINT) face complex trade‐offs between economic growth and environmental sustainability. Strengthening this study are the UN Sustainable Development Goals prepositions on access to clean and alternative energy, decent economic growth, responsible production and consumption and climate action (UN‐SDGs‐7, 8, 12, and 13). The present study examines the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis for MINT economies within the framework of the load capacity factor (LCF). The article leverages panel econometrics to operationalize the relationship between study variables. Empirical findings show that the present study fails to confirm the presence of EKC. Thus, it implies that the MINT economies are at their first stage of accelerated economic growth which might result in an augmented ecological footprint and exert pressure on natural resources, as indicated by the observed negative outcome. Furthermore, there is a positive and significant relationship between renewable energy consumption (RENENG) and LCF. It implies that a 1% increase in RENENG leads to an increase in LCF of 0.70%. These outcomes indicate that the level of RENENG in MINT economies is not sufficient to mitigate climate change issues. Thus, from a policy perspective, there is a need for change in the MINT nations' energy portfolio mix, such as the need to switch from conventional energy sources (fossil fuels) to renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, photovoltaic and hydropower, which usually have a smaller negative impact on the environment. Furthermore, there is a need for investment in new and green energy technologies in the countries investigated to arrive at a clean and better ecosystem as desired. More insight is outlined in the concluding section.
Playing politics with traffic fines: Sheriff elections and political cycles in traffic fines revenue
Authors: Su Min , Buerger Christian
Published: May 2024

The political budget cycle theory has extensively documented how politicians manipulate policies during election years to gain an electoral advantage. This paper focuses on county sheriffs, crucial but often neglected local officials, and investigates their opportunistic political behavior during elections. Using a panel data set covering 57 California county governments over four election cycles, we find compelling evidence of traffic enforcement policy manipulation by county sheriffs during election years. Specifically, a county's per capita traffic fines revenue is 9% lower in the election than in nonelection years. The magnitude of the political cycle intensifies when an election is competitive. Our findings contribute to the political budget cycle theory and provide timely insights into the ongoing debate surrounding law enforcement reform and local governments’ increasing reliance on fines and fees revenue.
Building the workforce of tomorrow: The weighting of rural exposure in standardised curriculum vitae scoring criteria for entrance into Australian specialty training programs
Authors: Muecke Thomas , Bacchi Stephen , Casson Robert , Chan Weng Onn
Published: May 2024

Objective

To determine the weighting of rural exposure within publicly available standardised curriculum vitae (CV) scoring criteria for trainee medical officer's applying into medical and surgical specialty training programs in Australia and New Zealand.

Methods/Design

An observational analysis of rural exposure point allocations within publicly available standardised CV scoring criteria for entrance into specialty training programs.

Setting

All Australian and New Zealand medical and surgical specialties training programs outlined by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) who publish publicly available standardised CV scoring criteria for entrance into specialty training were included.

Results

Of the 14 specialty training programs that publish publicly available standardised CV scoring criteria, 8/14 allocate points towards rural exposure. While the allocation of points within this scoring domain varies between the eight training programs, the mean weighting of rural exposure is 13.7%.

Conclusions

The relative weighting of rural exposure varies between the eight specialty training programs who include rural exposure as a CV scoring criteria. The deliberate and strategic construction of CV scoring criteria and inclusion of rural exposure points is important to continue developing the Australian rural specialist workforce. Future development of standardised CV scoring criteria should continue to consider point allocation towards rural exposure and related activities to ensure that the requirements of rural Australian healthcare needs are met across medical and surgical specialties.
Emerging approaches to male contraception
Authors: Yan Wei , Amory John K.
Published: May 2024

Background

Currently, approximately half of all pregnancies worldwide are unintended. Contraceptive use significantly reduces the risk of unintended pregnancy; however, options for men are particularly limited. Consequently, efforts are underway to develop novel, safe, and effective male contraceptives.

Results

This review discusses research into emerging male contraceptive methods that either inhibit sperm production or impair sperm function. It focuses on those in the preclinical or early clinical stages of development.
The strength of the patellar and Achilles tendon reflexes is not affected in uncomplicated pregnancy
Authors: Nordfjord Isold , Steingrimsdottir Thora , Valtorta Andrea , Hilmarsson Agust , Hjaltason Haukur
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Research on healthy pregnant women's reflexes is almost unheard of, even if an estimation of reflexes is a conventional part of the physical examination of preeclamptic patients, and hyperreflexia is generally considered to be a warning sign of eclampsia. The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible impact of gestation on tendon reflexes and the Babinski response, as examined in a clinical bed‐side manner.

Material and Methods

A prospective, single‐blind, cross‐sectional study. Three study groups comprised non‐pregnant (n = 20), 14–18 weeks (n = 16), and 34–38 weeks (n = 15) healthy pregnant women respectively. Two experienced neurologists examined separately each participant's patellar reflexes, Achilles reflexes, and Babinski response and rated them on two different scales, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) scale and Mayo Clinic Scale for Tendon Reflex Assessment. Inter‐observer estimations between the patient groups and the neurologists were made by mixed effect model methodology.

Results

The patellar and Achilles reflexes´ strengths were rated similarly in all three groups (p > 0.05). The inter‐observer difference was non‐significant between the neurologists´ estimations (p > 0.05). The neurologists estimated the Babinski response in a few cases as neutral (0), otherwise down (normal).

Conclusions

The patellar and Achilles reflex strengths are not affected in uncomplicated pregnancy. There is good concordance between neurologists´ estimations of tendon reflex strengths rated on the NINDS and Mayo scales.
Letter: Potential confounders might exaggerate the risk of rheumatoid arthritis in patients with microscopic colitis—Authors' reply
Authors: Bergman David , Ludvigsson Jonas F.
Published: May 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Bergman et al papers. To view these articles, visithttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17708andhttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18010.
Microbotanical analysis in artifacts of the CABUZA phase (900–1200 ce), Azapa Valley, northern Chile: Vessels and rites of “eating and drinking with the dead” in post‐Tiwanaku times
Authors: Ogalde Juan Pablo , Villanueva Fiorella Valeria , Huaman Mesía Luis Ramón , Aravena Sanchez Natalia Carolina
Published: May 2024

We report observations of wear traces and microbotanical analysis of 29 ceramics, one pot of Cucurbita sp., and one wooden spoon—all artifacts of the AZ‐6 and AZ‐71 cemeteries of the Cabuza cultural phase (900–1200 ce), Azapa Valley, northern Chile—. The results show some unused artifacts (11) besides 21 samples that were positive for starches of Zea mays, Cucurbita sp., Manihot esculenta, Ipomoea batatas, or Phaseolus sp., in addition to vegetable remains (13 cases). This evidence is interpreted as an expression of funerary rites in post‐state times, which could be an inheritance of the Andean Tiwanaku State (ca. 500–1000 ce).
Petrographic and geochemical analyses of pottery from Wadi Tanuf, Oman: Approaching pottery production in south‐eastern Arabia during the second and first millennia BCE
Authors: Miki Takehiro , Kuronuma Taichi , MacDonald Brandi L. , Glascock Michael D. , Kondo Yasuhisa
Published: May 2024

This study describes the petrographic and geochemical characteristics of pottery collected from Mugharat al‐Kahf and WTN02 in Wadi Tanuf, north‐central Oman, to clarify interregional similarities and differences in pottery production techniques and examine the existence of interregional trade in pottery with respect to changes in mobile communities. Potsherds from these sites were characterised using thin‐section petrography and instrumental neutron activation analysis. Results revealed that several clay fabrics and tempers were used during the Wadi Suq period (2000–1600 BCE). A region‐wide similarity exists in pottery‐making techniques in terms of the tempering of specific minerals (Oman ophiolite) used in the Early Iron Age (1300–300 BCE). Geochemical results indicate differences in clay sources between the Wadi Suq period and the Early Iron Age in Wadi Tanuf and the unlikelihood of the interregional trade of domestic pottery.
Investigating the key success factors within business models that facilitate long‐term value creation for sustainability‐focused start‐ups
Authors: Christodoulou Ioannis P. , Rizomyliotis Ioannis , Konstantoulaki Kleopatra , Alfiero Simona , Hasanago Sema , Paolone Francesco
Published: May 2024

Start‐ups navigate complex challenges in today's business environment, requiring a delicate balance of economic, environmental, and social objectives for long‐term success. This study investigates the pivotal factors within business models that drive sustained value creation for sustainability‐focused start‐ups. Through a comprehensive literature review encompassing environmental, social, and performance dimensions, we identify resilience as a primary component of sustainable decision‐making, supported by adaptability and convenience. Emphasizing resilience and adaptability in decision‐making processes enables sustainable start‐ups to maintain competitive advantages while pursuing sustainability goals. We advocate for a collaborative decision‐making approach focused on long‐term value creation through sustainability measures, providing a framework for developing or refining sustainable business models. Future research may further explore the identified success factors within sustainable start‐ups.
Using machine learning to increase access to and engagement with trauma‐focused interventions for posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Lenton‐Brym Ariella P. , Collins Alexis , Lane Jeanine , Busso Carlos , Ouyang Jessica , Fitzpatrick Skye , Kuo Janice R. , Monson Candice M.
Published: May 2024

Background

Post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) poses a global public health challenge. Evidence‐based psychotherapies (EBPs) for PTSD reduce symptoms and improve functioning (Forbes et al., Guilford Press, 2020, 3). However, a number of barriers to access and engagement with these interventions prevail. As a result, the use of EBPs in community settings remains disappointingly low (Charney et al., Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy, 11, 2019, 793; Richards et al., Community Mental Health Journal, 53, 2017, 215), and not all patients who receive an EBP for PTSD benefit optimally (Asmundson et al., Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, 48, 2019, 1). Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have introduced new possibilities for increasinfg access to and quality of mental health interventions.

Aims

The present paper reviews key barriers to accessing and engaging in EBPs for PTSD, discusses current applications of AI in PTSD treatment and provides recommendations for future AI integrations aimed at reducing barriers to access and engagement.

Discussion

We propose that AI may be utilized to (1) assess treatment fidelity; (2) elucidate novel predictors of treatment dropout and outcomes; and (3) facilitate patient engagement with the tasks of therapy, including therapy practice. Potential avenues for technological advancements are also considered.
ST‐2560, a selective inhibitor of the NaV1.7 sodium channel, affects nocifensive and cardiovascular reflexes in non‐human primates
Authors: Mulcahy John V. , Beckley Jacob T. , Klas Sheri D. , Odink Debra A. , Delwig Anton , Pajouhesh Hassan , Monteleone Dennis , Zhou Xiang , Du Bois Justin , Yeomans David C. , Luu George , Hunter John C.
Published: May 2024

Background and Purpose

The voltage‐gated sodium channel isoform NaV1.7 is a high‐interest target for the development of non‐opioid analgesics due to its preferential expression in pain‐sensing neurons. NaV1.7 is also expressed in autonomic neurons, yet its contribution to involuntary visceral reflexes has received limited attention. The small molecule inhibitor ST‐2560 was advanced into pain behaviour and cardiovascular models to understand the pharmacodynamic effects of selective inhibition of NaV1.7.

Experimental Approach

Potency of ST‐2560 at NaV1.7 and off‐target ion channels was evaluated by whole‐cell patch‐clamp electrophysiology. Effects on nocifensive reflexes were assessed in non‐human primate (NHP) behavioural models, employing the chemical capsaicin and mechanical stimuli. Cardiovascular parameters were monitored continuously in freely‐moving, telemetered NHPs following administration of vehicle and ST‐2560.

Key Results

ST‐2560 is a potent inhibitor (IC50 = 39 nM) of NaV1.7 in primates with ≥1000‐fold selectivity over other isoforms of the human NaV1.x family. Following systemic administration, ST‐2560 (0.1–0.3 mg·kg−1, s.c.) suppressed noxious mechanical‐ and chemical‐evoked reflexes at free plasma concentrations threefold to fivefold above NaV1.7 IC50. ST‐2560 (0.1–1.0 mg·kg−1, s.c.) also produced changes in haemodynamic parameters, most notably a 10‐ to 20‐mmHg reduction in systolic and diastolic arterial blood pressure, at similar exposures.

Conclusions and Implications

Acute pharmacological inhibition of NaV1.7 is antinociceptive, but also has the potential to impact the cardiovascular system. Further work is merited to understand the role of NaV1.7 in autonomic ganglia involved in the control of heart rate and blood pressure, and the effect of selective NaV1.7 inhibition on cardiovascular function.