bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining tourists' risk-related hesitation and confidence effects on developing distress and associated behavioral responses during COVID-19
Authors: Hameed Rizwana , Akhtar Naeem , Sharma Anshuman
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Utilizing the theoretical foundation of the stimulus-organism-response framework, the present work developed and investigated a conceptual model. The work explores the effects of perceived risk of COVID-19 on tourists' choice hesitation and choice confidence. Furthermore, it examines the impacts of choice hesitation and choice confidence on psychological distress, which, in turn, influences purchase intentions and risk-protective behavior. Additionally, the study assesses the boundary effects of vulnerability on the association between choice hesitation, choice confidence, and psychological distress.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was administered in China during COVID-19 to assess the postulated hypotheses. We collected 491 responses using purposive sampling, and covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM) was performed to investigate the relationships.

Findings

Results show that the perceived risk of COVID-19 positively influences the choice hesitation and negatively impact choice confidence. It was also found that choice hesitation and choice confidence positively developed psychological distress, which, in turn, negatively triggered purchase intentions and positively developed risk-protective behavior. Additionally, perceived vulnerability had a significant moderating impact on the proposed relationships, strengthening psychological distress.

Originality/value

In the current context, this study measures bipolar behavioral outcomes using the S-O-R model. Because cognitive processes influence participation in health preventative behavior during the spread of diseases, we highlighted how the perception of risk and vulnerability to a pandemic serves as a reliable indicator of certain behaviors. This study advances understanding of how the psychological mindset of tourists copes with such circumstances. Due to the pandemic, tourists face limitations in their choices and are placing greater emphasis on adopting protective measures to mitigate associated risks.
Opportunities and challenges facing LGBTQ+ people in employment in rural England post-pandemic: a thematic analysis
Authors: Pipkin Alastair , Rodriguez Forero Luz Helena
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The following study aimed to better understand rural dwelling LGBTQ+ adults’ experiences of the challenges and opportunities facing their working lives in England.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative, focus group design was utilized, using online recruitment and an online, one-off focus group. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Three themes were identified: stressors facing LGBTQ+ people in the workplace; opportunities in employment; and ideas to improve the workplace for LGBTQ+ people. Participants spoke to the ways in which both rural living and the pandemic had impacted their working lives, including elevated fears of being discriminated against; experiencing microaggressions in the workplace which they felt were partly elevated by a lack of visibility and affirmative policies; and a sense that specific workplaces inhabited by LGBTQ+ people had been decimated by the pandemic. Conversely, participants spoke of opportunities for affirmation of their gender and/or sexual orientation identities, feeling a sense of pride and connection with their communities through work.

Originality/value

This is the first study to the authors’ knowledge that specifically explores rural dwelling LGBTQ+ adults’ experiences of the workplace post-pandemic. It builds on previous empirical research by highlighting qualitative experiences of challenges and opportunity, which can inform organizations and policymakers’ efforts to promote inclusivity.
Building capacity in urban schools: emphasizing partnerships between counselor education and elementary schools
Authors: Frank Alexandra , Taylor Dalena Dillman
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Post-COVID-19, public K–12 schools are still facing the consequences of the years of interrupted learning. Schools serving minoritized students are particularly at risk for facing challenges with academics, behavior and student social emotional health. The university counseling programs are in positions to build capacity in urban schools while also supporting counselors-in-training through service-learning opportunities.

Design/methodology/approach

The following conceptual manuscript demonstrates how counselor education counseling programs and public schools can harness the capacity-building benefits of university–school partnerships. While prevalent in fields like special education, counselor educators have yet to heed the hall to participate in mutually beneficial partnership programs.

Findings

Using the multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) and the components of the university–school partnerships, counselor educators and school stakeholders can work together to support student mental health, school staff well-being and counselor-in-training competence.

Originality/value

The benefits and opportunities within the university–school partnerships are well documented. However, few researchers have described a model to support partnerships between the university counseling programs and urban elementary schools. We provide a best practice model using the principles of university–school partnerships and a school’s existing MTSS framework.
Beyond anthropocentrism in agricultural and resource economics
Authors: Espinosa Romain , Treich Nicolas
Published: March 2024

We argue that it is both possible and timely to relax the assumption of anthropocentrism in agricultural and resource economics. We advocate for the incorporation of sentientist principles by including the welfare of sentient animals within the social welfare function. To exemplify this non‐anthropocentric stance, we build on our recent works that incorporate the intrinsic value of farmed animals into food production and consumption. By recognising the externalities affecting animals, we justify the implementation of specific policies, such as a meat tax, which redistributes welfare from consumers and producers to farmed animals. Furthermore, we delve into the quantitative assessment of animal welfare and demonstrate its application to food policy, revealing the substantial economic and welfare impacts at stake. Expanding on our earlier model, we also emphasize the importance of introducing a ‘sentience premium’ within species conservation policies. This additional consideration ensures that the conservation efforts appropriately account for the intrinsic value of sentient beings living in the wild.
A New Mode of Protection: The Case for Redesigning our Policing and Public Safety Institutions
Authors: Muir Rick
Published: March 2024

The society in which the police operate is changing radically, meaning that we need to rethink our policing and wider public safety institutions. Policing needs to be clearer as to its purpose, and needs to work in a much more collaborative way with other public services, particularly to do more to prevent crime and harm. Policing needs new or reformed capabilities in areas such as legitimacy, technology and skills. And finally, policing needs a better organisational platform if it is to play its role in keeping people safe in the transformed conditions of the twenty‐first century.
Stem cell secretome treatment improves whole‐body metabolism, reduces adiposity, and promotes skeletal muscle function in aged mice
Authors: Fennel Zachary J. , Bourrant Paul‐Emile , Kurian Anu Susan , Petrocelli Jonathan J. , de Hart Naomi M. M. P. , Yee Elena M. , Boudina Sihem , Keirstead Hans S. , Nistor Gabrielle , Greilach Scott A. , Berchtold Nicole C. , Lane Thomas E. , Drummond Micah J.
Published: March 2024

Aging coincides with the progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, increased adiposity, and diminished physical function. Accordingly, interventions aimed at improving muscle, metabolic, and/or physical health are of interest to mitigate the adverse effects of aging. In this study, we tested a stem cell secretome product, which contains extracellular vesicles and growth, cytoskeletal remodeling, and immunomodulatory factors. We examined the effects of 4 weeks of 2×/week unilateral intramuscular secretome injections (quadriceps) in ambulatory aged male C57BL/6 mice (22–24 months) compared to saline‐injected aged‐matched controls. Secretome delivery substantially increased whole‐body lean mass and decreased fat mass, corresponding to higher myofiber cross‐sectional area and smaller adipocyte size, respectively. Secretome‐treated mice also had greater whole‐body physical function (grip strength and rotarod performance) and had higher energy expenditure and physical activity levels compared to control mice. Furthermore, secretome‐treated mice had greater skeletal muscle Pax7+ cell abundance, capillary density, collagen IV turnover, reduced intramuscular lipids, and greater Akt and hormone sensitive lipase phosphorylation in adipose tissue. Finally, secretome treatment in vitro directly enhanced muscle cell growth and IL‐6 production, and in adipocytes, it reduced lipid content and improved insulin sensitivity. Moreover, indirect treatment with secretome‐treated myotube culture media also enhanced muscle cell growth and adipocyte size reduction. Together, these data suggest that intramuscular treatment with a stem cell secretome improves whole‐body metabolism, physical function, and remodels skeletal muscle and adipose tissue in aged mice.
Sex differences in heart rate variability measures that predict alcohol drinking in rats
Authors: Frasier Raizel M. , Starski Phillip A. , de Oliveira Sergio Thatiane , Grippo Angela J. , Hopf F. Woodward
Published: March 2024

Problem alcohol drinking continues to be a substantial cost and burden. In addition, alcohol consumption in women has increased in recent decades, and women can have greater alcohol problems and comorbidities. Thus, there is a significant need for novel therapeutics to enhance sex‐specific, individualized treatment. Heart rate (HR) and HR variability (HRV) are of broad interest because they may be both biomarkers for and drivers of pathological states. HRV reflects the dynamic balance between sympathetic (SNS, ‘fight or flight’) and parasympathetic (PNS, ‘rest and digest’) systems. Evidence from human studies suggest PNS predominance in women and SNS in men during autonomic regulation, indicating the possibility of sex differences in risk factors and physiological drivers of problem drinking. To better understand the association between HRV sex differences and alcohol drinking, we examined whether alcohol consumption levels correlated with time domain HRV measures (SDNN and rMSSD) at baseline, at alcohol drinking onset, and across 10 min of drinking, in adult female and male Wistar rats. In particular, we compared both HRV and HR measures under alcohol‐only and compulsion‐like conditions (alcohol + 10 mg/L quinine), because compulsion can often be a significant barrier to treatment of alcohol misuse. Importantly, previous work supports the possibility that different HRV measures could be interpreted to reflect PNS versus SNS influences. Here, we show that females with higher putative PNS indicators at baseline and at drinking onset had greater alcohol consumption. In contrast, male intake levels related to increased potential SNS measures at drinking onset. Once alcohol was consumed, HR predicted intake level in females, perhaps a pharmacological effect of alcohol. However, HRV changes were greater during compulsion‐like intake versus alcohol‐only, suggesting HRV changes (reduced SNS in females, reduced PNS and increased HR in males) specifically related to aversion‐resistant intake. We find novel and likely clinically relevant autonomic differences associated with biological sex and alcohol drinking, suggesting that different autonomic mechanisms may promote differing aspects of female and male alcohol consumption.
Backlash towards male versus female leaders' interpersonal emotion management strategy use: The role of followers' gender‐based leadership stereotypes
Authors: Bayazit Mahmut , Czukor Gergely , Dural Şenoğuz Uzay , Özalp Türetgen İlknur
Published: March 2024

Research on the backlash effect predominantly investigated penalties men and women incurred when they violate gender norms in the domain of achievement‐oriented aggressiveness. We investigated backlash reactions towards female versus male leaders' attempts to manage follower emotions using one of two gender‐stereotypic interpersonal emotion management strategies, cognitive change or expression suppression, in a 2×2 vignette experiment in which undergraduate students as participants acted as followers (N = 206). We hypothesized that followers high in explicit or implicit prejudice towards female leadership would be motivated to show backlash in the form of negative attitudes and anger when female leaders use an expression suppression strategy and when male leaders use a cognitive change strategy, violating gender norms. We also explored the role of followers' gender as a boundary condition of backlash reactions towards leaders of the same versus opposite sex. Male participants with negative explicit attitudes towards women leaders in general expressed higher levels of anger towards a female leader who utilized a suppression strategy. Female participants holding implicit stereotypes reported negative attitudes for both female and male leaders who utilized a gender‐incongruent emotion management strategy. We discuss the implications of our findings for theory and research on the backlash effect.
The effects of the β1‐adrenergic receptor antagonist bisoprolol administration on mirabegron‐stimulated human brown adipose tissue thermogenesis
Authors: Dumont Lauralyne , Caron Alexandre , Richard Gabriel , Croteau Etienne , Fortin Mélanie , Frisch Frédérique , Phoenix Serge , Dubreuil Stéphanie , Guérin Brigitte , Turcotte Éric E. , Carpentier André C. , Blondin Denis P.
Published: March 2024

Aim

Pharmacological stimulation of human brown adipose tissue (BAT) has been hindered by ineffective activation or undesirable off‐target effects. Oral administration of the maximal allowable dose of mirabegron (200 mg), a β3‐adrenergic receptor (β3‐AR) agonist, has been effective in stimulating BAT thermogenesis and whole‐body energy expenditure. However, this has been accompanied by undesirable cardiovascular effects. Therefore, we hypothesized that combining mirabegron with a β1‐AR antagonist could suppress these unwanted effects and increase the stimulation of the β3‐AR and β2‐AR in BAT.

Methods

We performed a randomized crossover trial (NCT04823442) in 8 lean men. Mirabegron (200 mg) was administered orally with or without the β1‐AR antagonist bisoprolol (10 mg). Dynamic [11C]‐acetate and 2‐deoxy‐2‐[18F]fluoro‐d‐glucose PET/CT scans were performed sequentially after oral administration of mirabegron ± bisoprolol.

Results

Compared to room temperature, mirabegron alone increased BAT oxidative metabolism (0.84 ± 0.46 vs. 1.79 ± 0.91 min−1, p = 0.0433), but not when combined with bisoprolol. The metabolic rate of glucose in BAT, measured using [18F]FDG PET, was significantly higher with mirabegron than mirabegron with bisoprolol (24 ± 10 vs. 16 ± 8 nmol/g/min, p = 0.0284). Bisoprolol inhibited the mirabegron‐induced increase in systolic blood pressure and heart rate.

Conclusion

The administration of bisoprolol decreases the adverse cardiovascular effects of mirabegron. However, the provided dose also blunted the mirabegron‐stimulated increase in BAT lipolysis, thermogenesis, and glucose uptake. The attenuation in BAT blood flow induced by the large dose of bisoprolol may have limited BAT thermogenesis.
Evaluation of adherence to antipsychotics: A real‐world data study using four different dosing assumptions
Authors: Fuente‐Moreno Marina , Dima Alexandra L. , Rubio‐Valera Maria , Baladon Luisa , Chavarria Victor , Contaldo Salvatore Fabrizio , Peña‐Salazar Carlos , Serra‐Sutton Vicky , Hermida‐González Patricia , de Loño Jorge Peláez , Rey‐Abella Maria Eugènia , Aznar‐Lou Ignacio , Serrano‐Blanco Antoni
Published: March 2024

Aims

This study aimed to assess the frequency of dosing inconsistencies in prescription data and the effect of four dosing assumption strategies on adherence estimates for antipsychotic treatment.

Methods

A retrospective cohort, which linked prescription and dispensing data of adult patients with ≥1 antipsychotic prescription between 2015‐2016 and followed up until 2019, in Catalonia (Spain). Four strategies were proposed for selecting the recommended dosing in overlapping prescription periods for the same patient and antipsychotic drug: (i) the minimum dosing prescribed; (ii) the dose corresponding to the latest prescription issued; (iii) the highest dosing prescribed; and (iv) all doses included in the overlapped period. For each strategy, one treatment episode per patient was selected, and the Continuous Medication Availability measure was used to assess adherence. Descriptive statistics were used to describe results by strategy.

Results

Of the 277 324 prescriptions included, 76% overlapped with other prescriptions (40% with different recommended dosing instructions). The number and characteristics of patients and treatment episodes (18 292, 18 303, 18 339 and 18 536, respectively per strategy) were similar across strategies. Mean adherence was similar between strategies, ranging from 57 to 60%. However, the proportion of patients with adherence ≥90% was lower when selecting all doses (28%) compared with the other strategies (35%).

Conclusion

Despite the high prevalence of overlapping prescriptions, the strategies proposed did not show a major effect on the adherence estimates for antipsychotic treatment. Taking into consideration the particularities of antipsychotic prescription practices, selecting the highest dose in the overlapped period seemed to provide a more accurate adherence estimate.
Hearing loss in beta‐thalassaemia: An Italian multicentre case–control study
Authors: Manara Renzo , Brotto Davide , Barillari Maria Rosaria , Costa Giuseppe , Villani Annalisa Valentina , Perna Carmine , Ziello Brunella , di Salle Francesco , Cantone Elena , Pasanisi Annamaria , De Michele Elisa , Ciancio Angela , D'Urzo Giovanna , Valentino Pasqualina , Perrotta Silverio , Ricchi Paolo , Tartaglione Immacolata
Published: March 2024

Background

Despite numerous studies, the true scenario of hearing loss in beta‐thalassaemia remains rather nebulous.

Materials and methods

Pure tone audiometry, chelation therapy, demographics and laboratory data of 376 patients (mean age 38.5 ± 16.6 years, 204 females, 66 non‐transfusion‐dependent) and 139 healthy controls (mean age 37.6 ± 17.7 years, 81 females) were collected.

Results

Patient and control groups did not differ for age (p = 0.59) or sex (p = 0.44). Hypoacusis rate was higher in patients (26.6% vs. 7.2%; p < 0.00001), correlated with male sex (32.6% in males vs. 21.8% in females; p = 0.01) and it was sensorineural in 79/100. Hypoacusis rate correlated with increasing age (p = 0.0006) but not with phenotype (13/66 non‐transfusion‐dependent vs. 87/310 transfusion‐dependent patients; p = 0.16). Sensorineural‐notch prevalence rate did not differ between patients (11.4%) and controls (12.2%); it correlated with age (p = 0.01) but not with patients' sex or phenotype. Among adult patients without chelation therapy, the sensorineural hypoacusis rate was non‐significantly lower compared to chelation‐treated patients while it was significantly higher compared to controls (p = 0.003).

Conclusions

Sensorineural hypoacusis rate is high in beta‐thalassaemia (about 21%) and it increases with age and in males while disease severity or chelation treatment seems to be less relevant. The meaning of sensorineural‐notch in beta‐thalassaemia appears questionable.
G protein‐coupled receptor‐mediated autophagy in health and disease
Authors: Öz‐Arslan Devrim , Durer Zeynep Aslıhan , Kan Beki
Published: March 2024

G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute the largest and most diverse superfamily of mammalian transmembrane proteins. These receptors are involved in a wide range of physiological functions and are targets for more than a third of available drugs in the market. Autophagy is a cellular process involved in degrading damaged proteins and organelles and in recycling cellular components. Deficiencies in autophagy are involved in a variety of pathological conditions. Both GPCRs and autophagy are essential in preserving homeostasis and cell survival. There is emerging evidence suggesting that GPCRs are direct regulators of autophagy. Additionally, autophagic machinery is involved in the regulation of GPCR signalling. The interplay between GPCR and autophagic signalling mechanisms significantly impacts on health and disease; however, there is still an incomplete understanding of the underlying mechanisms and therapeutic implications in different tissues and disease contexts. This review aims to discuss the interactions between GPCR and autophagy signalling. Studies on muscarinic receptors, beta‐adrenoceptors, taste receptors, purinergic receptors and adhesion GPCRs are summarized, in relation to autophagy.
Terminally differentiated cytotoxic CD4+ T cells were clonally expanded in the brain lesion of radiation‐induced brain injury
Authors: Ma Xueying , Zuo You , Hu Xia , Chen Sitai , Zhong Ke , Xue Ruiqi , Gui Shushu , Liu Kejia , Li Shaojian , Zhu Xiaoqiu , Yang Jingwen , Deng Zhenhong , Liu Xiaolu , Xu Yongteng , Liu Sheng , Shi Zhongshan , Zhou Meijuan , Tang Yamei
Published: March 2024

Background

Accumulating evidence supports the involvement of adaptive immunity in the development of radiation‐induced brain injury (RIBI). Our previous work has emphasized the cytotoxic function of CD8+ T cells in RIBI. In this study, we aimed to investigate the presence and potential roles of cytotoxic CD4+ T cells (CD4+ CTLs) in RIBI to gain a more comprehensive understanding of adaptive immunity in this context.

Main Text

Utilizing single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq), we analyzed 3934 CD4+ T cells from the brain lesions of four RIBI patients and identified six subclusters within this population. A notable subset, the cytotoxic CD4+ T cells (CD4+ CTLs), was marked with high expression of cytotoxicity‐related genes (NKG7, GZMH, GNLY, FGFBP2, and GZMB) and several chemokine and chemokine receptors (CCL5, CX3CR1, and CCL4L2). Through in‐depth pseudotime analysis, which simulates the development of CD4+ T cells, we observed that the CD4+ CTLs exhibited signatures of terminal differentiation. Their functions were enriched in protein serine/threonine kinase activity, GTPase regulator activity, phosphoprotein phosphatase activity, and cysteine‐type endopeptidase activity involved in the apoptotic signaling pathway. Correspondingly, mice subjected to gamma knife irradiation on the brain showed a time‐dependent infiltration of CD4+ T cells, an increase of MHCII+ cells, and the existence of CD4+ CTLs in lesions, along with an elevation of apoptotic‐related proteins. Finally, and most crucially, single‐cell T‐cell receptor sequencing (scTCR‐seq) analysis at the patient level determined a large clonal expansion of CD4+ CTLs in lesion tissues of RIBI. Transcriptional factor‐encoding genes TBX21, RORB, and EOMES showed positive correlations with the cytotoxic functions of CD4+ T cells, suggesting their potential to distinguish RIBI‐related CD4+ CTLs from other subsets.

Conclusion

The present study enriches the understanding of the transcriptional landscape of adaptive immune cells in RIBI patients. It provides the first description of a clonally expanded CD4+ CTL subset in RIBI lesions, which may illuminate new mechanisms in the development of RIBI and offer potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets for the disease.
Comparison of patch test positivity after 24 and 48 hours of occlusion time in patients of allergic contact dermatitis: A prospective study
Authors: Ahuja Rhea , Bhari Neetu , Sethuraman Gomathy , Kalaivani M. , Verma Kaushal
Published: March 2024

Background

Patch test is the gold standard for diagnosing allergic contact dermatitis. Conventionally, the patches are applied for 48 h, which in tropical weather conditions causes excessive sweating, leading to irritation, and sometimes the patches come off, making the test inconclusive.

Objective

To compare the patch test positivity after 24 and 48 h of occlusion time in patients of allergic contact dermatitis, using standard allergen concentration.

Materials and methods

Clinically suspected patients of allergic contact dermatitis were enrolled and patch tested using the Indian Standard Series, parthenium acetone extracts (1:50, 1:100 and 1:200 dilutions) and patient material. Patches were applied in duplicate on either side of the back, using a random number table. One set of patches was removed after 24‐h of occlusion, while the other set after 48‐h. Readings were performed at 48‐ and 96‐h by two independent dermatologists, blinded to the duration of occlusion.

Results

The study had 97 adult patients (58 males and 39 females; mean age: 48.12 ± 13.07 years). A total of 133 and 142 positive reactions were observed after 48 h occlusion at 48 and 96 h reading, respectively. Of these 117 (87.9%) and 132 (92.9%) patches were positive and concordant and noted at 24 h occlusion time. The Cohen's kappa coefficient were 0.94 for 48 h and 0.97 for 96 h reading, hence showing an almost complete agreement (ⱪ > 0.81) between patches occluded for 24 and 48 h.

Conclusion

Though there is no significant difference in patch test positivity among ISS allergens after either occlusion time, 48 h occlusion performs significantly better compared with 24 h, when reactions of all allergens (ISS, patient material and parthenium acetone extract) are analysed together.
Postoperative outcomes and identification of risk factors for complications after emergency intestinal stoma surgery – a multicentre retrospective study
Authors: MacDonald Scott , Wong Li‐Siang , Ng Hwei Jene , Hastings Claire , Ross Immogen , Quasim Tara , Moug Susan
Published: March 2024

Aim

Approximately 4000 patients in the UK have an emergency intestinal stoma formed each year. Stoma‐related complications (SRCs) are heterogeneous but have previously been subcategorized into early or late SRCs, with early SRCs generally occurring within 30 days postoperatively. Early SRCs include skin excoriation, stoma necrosis and high output, while late SRCs include parastomal hernia, retraction and prolapse. There is a paucity of research on specific risk factors within the emergency cohort for development of SRCs. This paper aims to describe the incidence of SRCs after emergency intestinal surgery and to identify potential risk factors for SRCs within this cohort.

Method

Consecutive patients undergoing emergency formation of an intestinal stoma (colostomy, ileostomy or jejunostomy) were identified prospectively from across three acute hospital sites over a 3‐year period from the ELLSA (Emergency Laparotomy and Laparoscopic Scottish Audit) database. All patients were followed up for a minimum of 1 year. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify risk factors for early and late SRCs.

Results

A total of 455 patients were included (median follow‐up 19 months, median age 64 years, male:female 0.52, 56.7% ileostomies). Early SRCs were experienced by 54.1% of patients, while 51% experienced late SRCs. A total of 219 patients (48.1%) had their stoma sited preoperatively. Risk factors for early SRCs included end ileostomy formation [OR 3.51 (2.24–5.49), p < 0.001], while preoperative stoma siting was found to be protective [OR 0.53 (0.35–0.83), p = 0.005]. Patient obesity [OR 3.11 (1.92–5.03), p < 0.001] and reoperation for complications following elective surgery [OR 4.18 (2.01–8.69), p < 0.001] were risk factors for late SRCs.

Conclusion

Stoma‐related complications after emergency surgery are common. Preoperative stoma siting is the only truly modifiable risk factor to reduce SRCs, and further research should be aimed at methods of improving the frequency and accuracy of this in the emergency setting.
Mapping an endangered living fossil's distribution, threats, and protection coverage
Authors: Contardo Juan , Labra Antonieta
Published: March 2024

Species Distribution Models have emerged in recent decades as a powerful tool for biodiversity research, as they allow, for example, assessing the status of species in their whole distributions. These models have been particularly helpful in demonstrating that amphibian populations are at high risk, with many declining and others already extinct. Here, we assessed the potential distribution of the helmeted water toad (Calyptocephalella gayi), an endemic Chilean amphibian considered a living fossil and cataloged as vulnerable, which requires significant conservation efforts. We modeled the species' potential distribution using the Maximum Entropy (Maxent) approach and determined the overlap with national protected areas. In addition, we conducted a geospatial risk analysis to estimate the threat level to which this toad is being subjected. The potential distribution ofC. gayiranges from 28°S to 44°S, mainly explained by altitude, mean diurnal temperature range, slope, and distance to water bodies. Protected areas only cover 3.55% of the species' potential geographic distribution, which is of concern, considering that the geospatial risk analysis showed that 60.61% ofC. gayi's distribution is subjected to extreme and high risks. We discuss how these results are relevant to focusing and directing efficient protection and conservation efforts for this species shortly.
Natural intestinal metabolite xylitol reduces BRD4 levels to mitigate renal fibrosis
Authors: Tan Zhouke , Wang Ze , Zeng Qianglin , Liu Xiaoyou , Zhang Yamei , Li Shujue , Huang Junlin , Zeng Yunong , Huang Zongshun , Jin Can , Fu Ningying , Zhao Qian , Mu Yingsong , Wang Ziyi , Xiao Jie , Yang Hong , Ke Guibao
Published: March 2024

Renal fibrosis is a typical pathological change from chronic kidney disease (CKD) to end‐stage renal failure, which presents significant challenges in prevention and treatment. The progression of renal fibrosis is closely associated with the “gut‐kidney axis,” therefore, although clinical intervention to modulate the “gut‐kidney axis” imbalance associated with renal fibrosis brings hope for its treatment. In this study, we first identified the close relationship between renal fibrosis development and the intestinal microenvironment through fecal microtransplantation and non‐absorbable antibiotics experiments. Then, we analyzed the specific connection between the intestinal microenvironment and renal fibrosis using microbiomics and metabolomics, screening for the differential intestinal metabolite. Potential metabolite action targets were initially identified through network simulation of molecular docking and further verified by molecular biology experiment. We used flow cytometry, TUNEL apoptosis staining, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting to assess renal injury and fibrosis extent, exploring the potential role of gut microbial metabolite in renal fibrosis development. We discovered that CKD‐triggered alterations in the intestinal microenvironment exacerbate renal injury and fibrosis. When metabolomic analysis was combined with experiments in vivo, we found that the differential metabolite xylitol delays renal injury and fibrosis development. We further validated this hypothesis at the cellular level. Mechanically, bromodomain‐containing protein 4 (BRD4) protein exhibits strong binding with xylitol, and xylitol alleviates renal fibrosis by inhibiting BRD4 and its downstream transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) pathway. In summary, our findings suggest that the natural intestinal metabolite xylitol mitigates renal fibrosis by inhibiting the BRD4‐regulated TGF‐β pathway.
Infant sustained attention differs by context and social content in the first 2 years of life
Authors: Bradshaw Jessica , Fu Xiaoxue , Richards John E.
Published: March 2024

Sustained attention (SA) is an endogenous form of attention that emerges in infancy and reflects cognitive engagement and processing. SA is critical for learning and has been measured using different methods during screen‐based and interactive contexts involving social and nonsocial stimuli. How SA differs by measurement method, context, and stimuli across development in infancy is not fully understood. This 2‐year longitudinal study examines attention using one measure of overall looking behavior and three measures of SA—mean look duration, percent time in heart rate‐defined SA, and heart rate change during SA—in N = 53 infants from 1 to 24 months across four unique task conditions: social videos, nonsocial videos, social interactions (face‐to‐face play), and nonsocial interactions (toy engagement). Results suggest that developmental changes in attention differ by measurement method, task context (screen or interaction), and task stimulus (social or nonsocial). During social interactions, overall looking and look durations declined after age 3–4 months, whereas heart rate‐defined attention measures remained stable. All SA measures were greater for videos than for live interaction conditions throughout the first 6 months, but SA to social and nonsocial stimuli within each task context were equivalent. In the second year of life, SA measured with look durations was greater for social videos compared to other conditions, heart rate‐defined SA was greater for social videos compared to nonsocial interactions, and heart rate change during SA was similar across conditions. Together, these results suggest that different measures of attention to social and nonsocial stimuli may reflect unique developmental processes and are important to compare and consider together, particularly when using infant attention as a marker of typical or atypical development.

Research Highlights

Attention measure, context, and social content uniquely differentiate developmental trajectories of attention in the first 2 years of life.

Overall looking to caregivers during dyadic social interactions declines significantly from 4 to 6 months of age while sustained attention (SA) to caregivers remains stable.

Heart rate‐defined SA generally differentiates stimulus context where infants show greater SA while watching videos than while engaging with toys.
Firm survival and the rise of the factory
Authors: Berger Thor , Ostermeyer Vinzent
Published: March 2024

This paper uses longitudinal establishment‐level data to trace the rise of the factory during Sweden's industrialization between 1864 and 1890. We document a sharp shift from the small artisan shop to the mechanized factory, which can largely be ascribed to differences in survival. Whilst non‐mechanized establishments could compete with the factory during early industrialization, a distinct survival advantage of the factory appeared at later stages of industrialization. The evolving advantage of the factory can mainly be attributed to its larger scale, labour productivity, and technology use. By the end of the nineteenth century, these factors became increasingly important determinants of firm survival.
Homocysteine‐potentiated Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 promotes senescence of neuroblastoma 2a cells via inhibiting ubiquitination of β‐catenin
Authors: Zhang Yao , Xie Jia‐Zhao , Jiang Yan‐Li , Yang Shao‐Juan , Wei Hui , Yang Ying , Wang Jian‐Zhi
Published: March 2024

Elevated serum homocysteine (Hcy) level is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD) and accelerates cell aging. However, the mechanism by which Hcy induces neuronal senescence remains largely unknown. In this study, we observed that Hcy significantly promoted senescence in neuroblastoma 2a (N2a) cells with elevated β‐catenin and Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (KEAP1) levels. Intriguingly, Hcy promoted the interaction between KEAP1 and the Wilms tumor gene on the X chromosome (WTX) while hampering the β‐catenin‐WTX interaction. Mechanistically, Hcy attenuated the methylation level of the KEAP1 promoter CpG island and activated KEAP1 transcription. However, a slow degradation rate rather than transcriptional activation contributed to the high level of β‐catenin. Hcy‐upregulated KEAP1 competed with β‐catenin to bind to WTX. Knockdown of both β‐catenin and KEAP1 attenuated Hcy‐induced senescence in N2a cells. Our data highlight a crucial role of the KEAP1‐β‐catenin pathway in Hcy‐induced neuronal‐like senescence and uncover a promising target for AD treatment.
A drained nutrient‐poor peatland forest in boreal Sweden constitutes a net carbon sink after integrating terrestrial and aquatic fluxes
Authors: Tong Cheuk Hei Marcus , Noumonvi Koffi Dodji , Ratcliffe Joshua , Laudon Hjalmar , Järveoja Järvi , Drott Andreas , Nilsson Mats B. , Peichl Matthias
Published: March 2024

Northern peatlands provide a globally important carbon (C) store. Since the beginning of the 20th century, however, large areas of natural peatlands have been drained for biomass production across Fennoscandia. Today, drained peatland forests constitute a common feature of the managed boreal landscape, yet their ecosystem C balance and associated climate impact are not well understood, particularly within the nutrient‐poor boreal region. In this study, we estimated the net ecosystem carbon balance (NECB) from a nutrient‐poor drained peatland forest and an adjacent natural mire in northern Sweden by integrating terrestrial carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) fluxes with aquatic losses of dissolved organic C (DOC) and inorganic C based on eddy covariance and stream discharge measurements, respectively, over two hydrological years. Since the forest included a dense spruce‐birch area and a sparse pine area, we were able to further evaluate the effect of contrasting forest structure on the NECB and component fluxes. We found that the drained peatland forest was a net C sink with a 2‐year mean NECB of −115 ± 5 g C m−2 year−1 while the adjacent mire was close to C neutral with 14.6 ± 1.7 g C m−2 year−1. The NECB of the drained peatland forest was dominated by the net CO2 exchange (net ecosystem exchange [NEE]), whereas NEE and DOC export fluxes contributed equally to the mire NECB. We further found that the C sink strength in the sparse pine forest area (−153 ± 8 g C m−2 year−1) was about 1.5 times as high as in the dense spruce‐birch forest area (−95 ± 8 g C m−2 year−1) due to enhanced C uptake by ground vegetation and lower DOC export. Our study suggests that historically drained peatland forests in nutrient‐poor boreal regions may provide a significant net ecosystem C sink and associated climate benefits.
In situ NADES microwave‐mediated extraction of bioactive compounds from Beta vulgaris L. var. rubra waste
Authors: Caviglia Debora , Russo Eleonora , Preda Stefania , Robustelli della Cuna Francesco Saverio , Villa Carla
Published: March 2024

The research focused on the recovery of bioactive compounds from beetroot waste (fresh stalks) using an innovative and microwave‐mediated (mw) procedure that could allow the simultaneous eutectic solvent preparation and matrix extraction (in situ mw NADES extraction), as a simplification of more conventional NADES (natural deep eutectic solvents) extractions. The main goal was to propose a fast and simple “one‐pot” extractive approach to obtain and screen non‐toxic, bioactive ready‐to‐use ingredients, potentially useful in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical fields, meanwhile converting beetroot residues, from worn‐out plant matrices to recycled sources with significant added values. With this purpose, several eutectic mixtures of natural food‐grade hydrogen bond donors (choline chloride or betaine) and hydrogen bond acceptors (fructose, urea, citric acid, and glycerol) were selected and investigated (in opportune ratios) under microwave activation, considering time, temperature, and solvent‐to‐matrix ratio as the influencing variables and the total phenols content recovery as the response. By the in situ NADES microwave method developed, the best results were obtained within 5 min at 70 °C with recoveries of around 0.5 mg of polyphenols for gram of fresh stalks, assessed by the Folin–Ciocalteu test. The suitability of the NADES‐based extractives, as radical scavenging agents, was evaluated using the DPPH assay, which highlighted their good antioxidant activity; moreover, monitoring the betacyanin content by means of UV–vis spectrophotometric analyses, it was evident that NADES provide a relevant stability to the new complexes (up to 3 months) compared to water (24 h). The new in situ process proposed could be also useful for preliminary screenings of different organic matrices, simplifying workup, streamlining the procedures, and reducing costs.
Nonresponse Bias Analysis in Longitudinal Studies: A Comparative Review with an Application to the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study
Authors: Si Yajuan , Little Roderick J.A. , Mo Ya , Sedransk Nell
Published: March 2024

Longitudinal studies are subject to nonresponse when individuals fail to provide data for entire waves or particular questions of the survey. We compare approaches to nonresponse bias analysis (NRBA) in longitudinal studies and illustrate them on the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Kindergarten Class of 2010–2011 (ECLS‐K:2011). Wave nonresponse with attrition often yields a monotone missingness pattern, and the missingness mechanism can be missing at random (MAR) or missing not at random (MNAR). We discuss weighting, multiple imputation (MI), incomplete data modelling and Bayesian approaches to NRBA for monotone patterns. Weighting adjustments can be effective when the constructed weights are correlated with the survey outcome of interest. MI allows for variables with missing values to be included in the imputation model, yielding potentially less biased and more efficient estimates. We add offsets in the MAR results to provide sensitivity analyses to assess MNAR deviations. We conduct NRBA for descriptive summaries and analytic model estimates in the ECLS‐K:2011 application. The strength of evidence about our NRBA depends on the strength of the relationship between the fully observed variables and the key survey outcomes, so the key to a successful NRBA is to include strong predictors.
Convalescent Plasma Therapy in Immunocompromised Patients Infected With the BA.1 or BA.2 Omicron SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Richier Quentin , De Valence Benjamin , Chopin Dorothée , Gras Emmanuelle , Levi Laura I. , Abi Aad Yasmine , Pacanowski Jérôme , Meynard Jean‐Luc , Plaçais Léo , Fey Dorothée , Couture Priscille , Martin‐Blondel Guillaume , Pestre Vincent , Woessner Juliette , Ancellin Sophie , Weyrich Pierre , Carpentier Benjamin , Idri Salim , Tiberghien Pierre , Surgers Laure , Hueso Thomas , Lacombe Karine
Published: March 2024

The emergence of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant has led to a complete reconfiguration of the therapeutic landscape, with all monoclonal antibodies having lost any neutralization activity. We report here a case series of 75 immunocompromised patients infected by the Omicron variant who benefited from COVID‐19 convalescent plasma (CCP). At Day 28, the overall survival was 76% (95% CI 67–86) with no significant difference in the clinical outcome between patients with hematological malignancies, solid organ transplantation or autoimmune diseases. No safety concern was reported during the course of the study. These results showed that CCP is well tolerated and represents a treatment option for immunocompromised patients who remain highly impacted by the COVID19 epidemic.
Mung bean flour‐added extruded snack production: Evaluation of the pasting properties of flour blends and the physicochemical, morphological, and functional properties of the product
Authors: Bozdogan Neslihan , Yaprak Aylin , Tavman Sebnem , Kumcuoglu Seher
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the effect of partially substituting corn semolina (CS) with mung bean flour (MBF) (20%–60%) as well as feed moisture (FM) (16%–20%) and extruder barrel temperature (BT) (140°C–170°C) on the physicochemical, functional, sensorial, and morphological properties of extruded snacks. Additionally, the pasting properties of MBF, CS, and the blends employed in the formulations were studied. The addition of 40% MBF to the formulations resulted in a decrease in the peak viscosity, while the addition of 60% MBF increased it. The final viscosity and setback viscosity exhibited a decrease, while the breakdown viscosity showed an increase with the addition of MBF. The degree of crystallinity, expansion ratio, apparent density, hardness, crispiness, water solubility index, and morphology of the extrudates were strongly dependent on the MBF content, FM, and BT. The expansion ratio and crispiness of the extruded products decreased with increasing MBF content, BT, and FM. The increase in BT and decrease in FM reduced the degree of crystallinity of the extrudates. Analysis of the microstructure revealed that the addition of MBF increased the thickness of the extrudate cell walls and reduced the size of air cells. The size and expansion of the air cells also decreased with increasing FM. Based on our study, the optimal conditions for the MBF‐containing snacks were determined as 143°C BT, 16% FM, and 40% MBF. Notably, the MBF‐containing snacks exhibit lower starch digestibility compared to the MBF‐free sample; the latter exhibited a higher degree of anisotropy, indicating a higher‐organized structure.

Practical application

The use of mung bean flour (MBF) as a substitution for corn semolina and the effects of feed moisture (FM) and barrel temperature (BT) in extruded snack production were studied. The results showed that MBF is a promising ingredient for enhancing the functionality and nutritional value of extruded snacks. The expansion ratio, apparent density, hardness, crispiness, water solubility index, crystallinity, and morphology of the extrudates were significantly dependent on MBF amount, FM, and BT. The expansion ratio and crispness of the snacks decreased with the increase in the MBF amount, BT, and FM. The addition of MBF to the formulation was appreciated by the panelists. The MBF enhances the quality characteristics of the snacks and decreases starch digestibility. The findings of this study provide a reference for the impacts of extrusion parameters on the production of high‐protein content snacks.