bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biotransformation and disposition characteristics of HSK7653, a novel long‐acting dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor for the treatment of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Bian Yi‐cong , Meng Jian , Hu Tao , Ma Sheng , Huang Chen‐rong , Zhang Feng‐yi , Wu Qing‐he , Zhang Hua , Chen Xiao‐yan , Miao Li‐yan
Published: April 2024

Aim

To investigate the metabolism and disposition characteristics of HSK7653 in healthy male Chinese participants.

Methods

A single oral dose of 80 μCi (25 mg) [14C]HSK7653 capsules was administered to six healthy participants, and blood, plasma, urine and faeces were collected. Quantitative and qualitative analysis was conducted to investigate the pharmacokinetics, blood‐to‐plasma ratio, mass balance and metabolism of HSK7653.

Results

The drug was well absorbed and reached a maximum concentration at 1.25 h. The drug‐related components (HSK7653 and its metabolites) were eliminated slowly, with a half‐life (t1/2) of 111 h. Unchanged HSK7653 contributed to more than 97% of the total radioactivity in all plasma samples. The blood‐to‐plasma ratio (0.573‐0.845) indicated that HSK7653 did not tend to distribute into blood cells. At 504 h postdose, up to 95.9% of the dose was excreted, including 79.8% in urine and 16.1% in faeces. Most of the radioactivity (75.5% dose) in excreta was unchanged HSK7653. In addition, nine metabolites were detected in urine and faeces. The most abundant metabolite was M6‐2, a dioxidation product of HSK7653, which accounted for 4.73% and 2.63% of the dose in urine and faeces, respectively. The main metabolic pathways of HSK7653 in vivo included oxidation, pyrrole ring opening and sulphonamide hydrolysation.

Conclusion

HSK7653 was well absorbed, slightly metabolized and slowly excreted in humans. The high plasma exposure and long t1/2 of HSK7653 may contribute to its long‐lasting efficacy as a long‐acting dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor.
The effect of animated movies on speaking skills among motivated English foreign language learners: Elementary level
Authors: Wang Rong , Do Dange Mustafa , Izadpanah Siros
Published: April 2024

Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, permeating every aspect. One area where technology has shown potential to enhance English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learning is through the use of animated movies. Despite the growing significance of technology in education, research is scarce in this specific area. Therefore, the aim of this study, conducted in 2023, was to investigate the impact of animated movies on the development of speaking abilities among motivated EFL learners. A total of 370 elementary students studying EFL in various institutions participated by responding to questionnaires. A multiple‐stage cluster sampling approach was employed to select the participants. The students were divided into two groups: the experimental group (EG) and the control group (CG). The selection of 15 animated films from a pool of 50 was performed using the Lawsh CVR (content validity ratio) and CVI (content validity index) algorithms, following validation by professionals. The study was designed as an experiment, and descriptive statistics and the ANCOVA test were employed to analyse the quantitative data. The findings revealed a significant difference between the pre‐test and post‐test results of the EG in English‐speaking skills, vocabulary learning, English pronunciation skills, understanding and recognition. According to the study, animated movies have the potential to aid teachers and EFL students in enhancing their speaking skills. This research sheds light on the benefits of incorporating animated movies into language learning environments, offering valuable insights for both educators and learners alike.
Living Beyond Restriction: LBR promotes cellular immortalization by suppressing genomic instability and senescence
Authors: Choi Haebeen , Kang Chanhee
Published: April 2024

Cellular immortalization is a complex process that requires multiple genetic alterations to overcome restricting barriers, including senescence. Not surprisingly, many of these alterations are associated with cancer; two tumor suppressor pathways, the cellular tumor antigen p53 and p16‐Retinoblastoma (RB) pathways, are the best‐characterized examples, but their mutations alone are known to be insufficient to drive full immortalization. En et al. identified a role for the lamin B receptor (LBR) in promoting cellular proliferation and immortalization in p53‐ and RB‐deficient cells by maintaining their genome integrity and suppressing senescence. Thus, modulation of LBR could be exploited to treat cancer and potentially also to promote cell rejuvenation.
Microstructure degradation and residual low cycle fatigue life of a serviced turbine blade
Authors: Tan L. , Yang X. G. , Sun Y. T. , Shi D. Q. , Hao W. Q. , Zhang C. , Fu Z. Z. , Ji P. F. , Fan Y. S.
Published: April 2024

This paper was attempted to investigate the microstructure degradation and low cycle fatigue (LCF) performance of a serviced K465 Ni‐based superalloy turbine blade. LCF tests were carried out with small‐scale plate specimens sampled from the blades. Relationship between residual LCF life and microstructure state was estimated. The results indicate that the coarsening of γ/γ′ phases was the most significant microstructure degradation mode for the serviced blades. Both the γ matrix width and the γ′ precipitate diameter increased with the increase of service duration, while the γ′ precipitate volume fraction slightly decreased. The most severe microstructure degradation occurred at the leading edge along the chord direction, particularly at 50–70 % airfoil spans. The residual LCF life exhibited an accelerated decrease characteristic as increases of microstructure degradation degree. The coarsened microstructure diminished shear resistance of the superalloy, which resulted in additional accumulated inelastic deformation and a corresponding reduction in LCF life.
Association between migraine and exclusive breastfeeding: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Vyas Manav V. , Lee Nathan , Lay Christine
Published: April 2024

Background

Medical conditions may preclude a mother from exclusively breastfeeding her infant; however, the association between migraine and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding is not well known.

Objective

To evaluate the association between migraine and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding in a representative sample of Canadian females.

Methods

We used the Canadian Community Health Survey, a cross‐sectional survey, to identify females aged 20–49 years who delivered a baby in the previous 5 years. History of migraine was self‐reported. Females reported if they breastfed their baby, and among those who did, they further reported the duration of exclusive breastfeeding. We evaluated the association between migraine and the rate of breastfeeding, and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding adjusting for selected covariates.

Results

We included 5282 females, of whom 862 (16.3%) had migraine. Compared to females without migraine, females with migraine were less likely to have high income (annual income >$80,000: 362 [42.0] vs. 2276 [51.6]), and more likely to have comorbid mood (176 [20.5] vs. 378 [8.6%]) and anxiety (196 [22.8%] vs. 406 [9.2%]) disorders. Migraine was not associated with breastfeeding (proportion of females who did not breastfeed, migraine vs. no migraine: 114/862 [13.2%] vs. 498/4420 [11.3%]; adjusted odds ratio 1.03; 0.74–1.27); however, females with migraine had lower odds (≥6 months of exclusive breastfeeding: 216/688 [31.4%] vs. 1325/3561 [37.2%]; adjusted odds ratio from ordinal shift analyses 0.84; 0.71–0.99) of longer duration of exclusive breastfeeding than females without migraine.

Conclusion

Females with migraine exclusively breastfeed their infants for a shorter duration compared to females without migraine, suggesting the need to better support this population through education on the safety and benefits of exclusive breastfeeding and better access to safe and effective treatment of migraine in lactating females.
Publishing in premier journals with high impact factor and Q1 journals: Dos and Don'ts
Authors: Paul Justin
Published: April 2024

The evolving landscape of the academic world has ushered in a plethora of challenges and opportunities for researchers. While there are undoubtedly monetary incentives and fringe benefits for those who actively engage in publishing, the journey toward acceptance by a premier journal is often arduous and time‐consuming. Considering this context, this paper endeavors to dissect prevailing trends, elucidate the reasons behind manuscript rejections, and furnish a compendium of strategies and insights aimed at augmenting the likelihood of acceptance while mitigating the probability of rejection.
Inoculated fermentation of cv. Conservolea natural black olives with multifunctional starter cultures in reduced‐sodium brines
Authors: Tzamourani Aikaterini , Kalogri Georgia , Kavvatha Maria , Kochila Aggeliki , Manthou Evanthia , Liu Yangtai , Panagou Efstathios Z.
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this research was to investigate the fermentation of Conservolea variety natural black olives using two lactic acid bacteria (LAB) with multifunctional potential as starter cultures. Moreover, the effect of 50% substitution of NaCl by KCl in the brines was examined to produce a reduced‐sodium product with multifunctional potential. For this purpose, Lactiplantibacillus pentosus B363 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum B380, previously isolated from table olive fermentations and characterised for technological and probiotic potential, were inoculated at the onset of fermentation in 6% (w/v) NaCl and 3% (w/v) NaCl/3% (w/v) KCl salt brines. The microbial populations (LAB, yeasts, and Enterobacteriaceae), pH, acidity, salt content, organic acids, and ethanol were measured in the brine for 146 days. Additionally, the recovery of each starter culture from the olive drupes at the beginning (5 days) and final (146 days) stages of fermentation was determined by plating, genotyping, and identification through RAPD‐PCR and 16S region amplicon sequencing, respectively, and subsequent strain differentiation through rep‐GTG5 fingerprint analysis. The results revealed the dominance of LAB in populations from 5.5 to 8.1 log CFU/mL. The final recovery rate of L. pentosus B363 on the olives was approximately 80% in both 6% (w/v) NaCl and reduced (3% (w/v) NaCl/3% (w/v) KCl) salt brines. Similarly, L. plantarum B380 recovery rates were 89% and 85%, respectively, for the same fermentations. Yeasts coexisted with LAB in counts ranging from 2.3 to 5.8 log CFU/mL, whereas no enterobacteria were enumerated in the brines and olives at the end of fermentation. The obtained fermentation profile and the sensory analysis of the olives revealed a typical lactic acid fermentation in both control and reduced‐sodium brines. The current results support the feasibility of the production of reduced‐sodium natural black olives with probiotic potential. The proposed fermentation process, including the selected starters, can be readily employed by the table olive industry to meet consumers' needs for low‐sodium dietary intake while enhancing the functional potential of table olives.
An engineering approach to the 3D printing of K‐Carrageenan/konjac glucomannan hydrogels
Authors: Russo Spena Simona , Visone Biagio , Grizzuti Nino
Published: April 2024

Aqueous solutions of Konjac glucomannan (KGM)/κ‐Carrageenan (κ‐C) of different ratios (1:2, 1:5, 1:8 and 1:10) and a fixed κ‐C content of 1.5%, were proposed as a new 3D food printing ink. Their thermo‐responsive behaviour was evaluated by temperature ramp rheological tests. This characterisation allowed for the evaluation of the synergistic effect between KGM and κ‐C and gave indications useful to the printing performance. Both elastic (G′) and loss (G″) moduli were found to increase by increasing the KGM concentration. Samples were printed by controlling the thermally reversible sol/gel transition occurring during the process. Direct pressure and flow rate measurements in the 3D printer were used to obtain the viscosity versus shear rate curves under processing conditions, useful to validate a scaling law relating the printing filament diameter to the relevant process and material properties (inks viscosity and printing pressure). The 3D printing performance of inks was evaluated by means of a novel, integrated score system. The results obtained indicate that aqueous mixtures of KGM/κ‐C can be successfully employed as a base for 3D printing food hydrogels. The use of the score system above outlined proved to be an easy yet efficient tool for the optimisation of the gel composition.
Rating accuracy, leniency, and rater perceptions when using the RPM and BARS
Authors: Feeney Justin R. , Daljeet Kabir N. , Goffin Richard D. , Schneider Travis J.
Published: April 2024

Researchers have argued that social‐comparative rating formats hold important psychometric advantages over traditional absolute ratings. We asked 152 participants to observe and assess the videotaped performance of individuals completing a task using a social‐comparative (Relative Percentile Method; RPM) and absolute rating (Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scale; BARS) formats. After collecting expert ratings on the same set of videos, we calculated accuracy indices and leniency. Additionally, we collected rater perceptions of accuracy and fairness for both formats. Our study revealed that the BARS was perceived as more accurate and fairer than the RPM. However, the RPM was found to be better at combating rater leniency. We discuss the implications of these findings.
Ethnographic perspectives of mothers and professionals on including children with disabilities in oral health in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alwadi Maram Ali M. , Baker Sarah R. , Owens Janine
Published: April 2024

Background

Children with disabilities generally face poorer oral health outcomes compared with their non‐disabled peers due to a range of factors including inadequate oral hygiene, infrequent dental visits and systemic barriers in accessing care.

Aim

This ethnographic study explored the perspectives of caregivers and professionals to identify the ways that children with disabilities are included in oral health.

Design

A purposive sample of 10 caregivers, all mothers with disabled children aged 9–15 years, five healthcare providers and five educators in Saudi Arabia, participated. Data collection used participant observation and semi‐structured in‐depth interviews. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

The findings suggest that mothers lacked a supportive environment to develop their skills and knowledge about oral health care, preventing them from including their children in oral health. Inaccessible services added to the exclusion of both mothers and children. Some dental professionals exhibited poor communication skills and discriminatory attitudes towards the children and problematising mothers. Educators tended to discuss disabled children in terms of inability, displaying a deficit approach to impairment.

Conclusions

The evidence suggests the exclusion of mothers from oral health. This has an impact on how they enable their children. Recommendations include adopting a social model of disability in dental education and policies in Saudi Arabia to address inequalities. Provision of support, education and focusing on societal barriers moves towards inclusion rather than conceptualising disability as an individual problem.
Which dimensions of culture matter for central bank independence? International evidence
Authors: Fang Tong
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we examine the relationship between Hofstede national cultures and de jure central bank independence. We propose theoretical hypotheses to explain how cultural dimensions determine central bank independence and test these hypotheses using an international dataset. We find that two cultural dimensions, namely, individualism and uncertainty avoidance, are significantly related to central bank independence. Central bank independence is higher in collectivistic and uncertainty avoidance countries. We further reveal that these cultural dimensions affect central bank independence in different ways. Individualism and uncertainty avoidance are related to independence in policy formulation and limitations on lending to governments. Although power distance and masculinity are insignificantly related to total central bank independence, they affect independence in objectives, policy formulation and limitation on lending to governments. Our results are robust through a series of checks.
Target setting for airlines: A DEA bargaining approach with network structure
Authors: Yu Ming‐Miin , Rakshit Ipsita
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study is to find out how airlines can reduce their inputs and provide appropriate passenger and cargo capacity, thereby increasing passenger and cargo traffic and reducing CO2 emissions. A network data envelopment analysis (DEA)–based Nash bargaining model is developed incorporating intermediate products and weakly disposable undesirable outputs and is applied to a dataset of 33 airline companies to obtain the bargaining solution. According to the results, airlines that are weak efficient or inefficient could establish their targets to attain efficiency through a fair and logical negotiation among the inputs, intermediate products, good outputs and bad output. Appropriate policies need to be implemented that would improve the airlines’ performance in terms of improvement in not only the efficiency of inputs and desirable outputs along with intermediate products but also with regard to environmental performance. This would ensure sustainable growth in airlines’ performance.
A facile route for decoration of hematite photoanodes by transition metal hydroxide co‐catalysts
Authors: Dadashi Radvar Sahand , Yourdkhani Amin , Poursalehi Reza
Published: April 2024

Earth‐abundant α‐Fe2O3 (hematite) is a convincing photoanode for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting; however, its intrinsic properties of inferior charge transfer and sluggish water oxidation kinetics limit its performance. Here, we report a straightforward decoration method for transition metal hydroxides to accelerate the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) of hematite photoanodes grown by electric field‐assisted liquid phase deposition (EA‐LPD). The investigations revealed that Co(OH)2 acts as a superior co‐catalyst compared with hydroxides of Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Zn. EA‐LPD‐grown hematite photoanode loaded with cobalt hydroxide exhibited an excellent PEC performance. A photocurrent density of 0.93 mA.cm−2 at 1.23 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode was achieved for the modified hematite, ∼3 times more than that of pristine hematite, and a cathodic shift of 100 mV for the onset potential was observed. The proposed simple and cost‐effective co‐catalyst loading strategy provides a high degree of freedom in the design of co‐catalysts with a complex chemical composition comprising transition metal oxyhydroxides and hydroxides on different photoanodes for more efficient charge carrier separation for the PEC applications.
First‐line managers' experience of guideline implementation during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Fjordkvist Erika , Eldh Ann Catrine , Winberg Madeleine , Joelsson‐Alm Eva , Hälleberg Nyman Maria
Published: April 2024

Aim(s)

To explore first‐line managers' experience of guideline implementation in orthopaedic care during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

A descriptive, qualitative study.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews with 30 first‐line nursing and rehabilitation managers in orthopaedic healthcare at university, regional and local hospitals. The interviews were analysed by thematic analysis.

Results

First‐line managers described the implementation of guidelines related to the pandemic as different from everyday knowledge translation, with a swifter uptake and time freed from routine meetings in order to support staff in adoption and adherence. The urgent need to address the crisis facilitated guideline implementation, even though there were specific pandemic‐related barriers such as staffing and communication issues. An overarching theme, Hanging on to guidelines for dear life, is substantiated by three themes: Adapting to facilitate change, Anchoring safety through guidelines and Embracing COVID guidelines.

Conclusion

A health crisis such as the COVID‐19 pandemic can generate enabling elements for guideline implementation in healthcare, despite prevailing or new hindering components. The experience of guideline implementation during the COVID‐19 pandemic can improve understanding of context aspects that can benefit organizations in everyday translation of evidence into practice.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Recognizing what enabled guideline implementation in a health crisis can help first‐line managers to identify local enabling context elements and processes. This can facilitate future guideline implementation.

Impact

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, the healthcare context and staff's motivation for guideline recognition and adoption changed. Resources and ways to bridge barriers in guideline implementation emerged, although specific challenges arose. Nursing managers can draw on experiences from the COVID‐19 pandemic to support implementation of new evidence‐based practices in the future.

Reporting Method

This study adheres to the EQUATOR guidelines by using Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR).

No Patient or Public Contribution.
From phenotype to mechanism: Prenatal spectrum of NKAP mutation‐related disorder and its pathogenesis inducing congenital heart disease
Authors: Xu Xiayuan , Gao Chengcheng , Ye Fenglei , Peng Aohui , Xu Jianbo , Jin Keqin , Zhang Jun , Ye Yun , Yang Yanfen , Zhang Xuan , Shen Shuangshuang , Jin Fan
Published: April 2024

NKAP mutations are associated with Hackmann‐Di Donato‐type X‐linked syndromic intellectual developmental disorder (MRXSHD, MIM: #301039). Here, we elucidate the potential prenatal manifestation of NKAP mutation‐associated disorder for the first time, alongside revealing the relationship between NKAP mutations and congenital heart defect (CHD) in the Chinese population. An NKAP mutation (NM_024528.4: c.988C>T, p.Arg330Cys) was identified in two foetuses presenting with CHD. Subsequent mechanistic exploration revealed a marked downregulation of NKAP transcription within HEK293T cells transfected with NKAP p.R330C. However, no significant change was observed at the protein level. Moreover, the mutation led to a dysregulation in the transcription of genes associated with cardiac morphogenesis, such as DHRS3, DNAH11 and JAG1. Additionally, our research determined that NKAP p.R330C affected Nkap protein intra‐nuclear distribution, and binding with Hdac3. Summarily, our study strengthens NKAP mutations as a cause of CHD and prompts the reclassification of NKAP p.R330C as likely pathogenic, thereby establishing a prospective prenatal phenotypic spectrum that provides new insight into the prenatal diagnosis of CHD. Our findings also provide evidence of NKAP p.R330C pathogenicity and demonstrate the potential mechanism by which p.R330C dysregulates cardiac developmental gene transcription by altering Nkap intra‐nuclear distribution and obstructing the interaction between Nkap and Hdac3, thereby leading to CHD.
Patient‐reported outcome measurements in facial skin surgery and a comparison between Mohs micrographic surgery and conventional excisions
Authors: Marsidi N. , Ottevanger R. , Demir Y. E. , van Beugen S. , Goeman J. J. , Genders R. E.
Published: April 2024

Background

Knowledge of the psychosocial impact of facial skin surgery on patients can help improve counselling strategies.

Objectives

The objective was to measure the psychological impact of facial skin cancer surgery on patients over a 1‐year period. Secondary objective was to measure the difference between Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) and conventional excision (CE) on these parameters.

Methods

This observational survey study was conducted between March 2019 and July 2020. Patients who had facial skin surgery using MMS or CE were selected. Five surveys were conducted on four timepoints (preoperative, 1 week, 3 months and 1 year post‐operative) measuring the quality of life, perceived stigmatization, body image, satisfaction with facial appearance and psychosocial distress.

Results

A total of 228 patients (MMS 154 patients, CE 74 patients) were included for the analysis. Scores for quality of life did not significantly change, in the year after surgery (PCS‐12 mean 50.5, SD 9.3 and MCS‐12 50.6, SD 9.4); however, stigmatization (F (3, 235,39) 7,26, p < 0.01, d = −0.07), body image concerns (F (3, 198,28) = 3.75, p < 0.01, d = −0.14), satisfaction with facial appearance (F (3, 205,18) = 10.74, p < 0.01, d = 0.43) and psychosocial distress (F (3, 208,69) = 9.26, p < 0.01, d = −0.15) did change over time. The use of MMS or CE did not significantly affect outcome scores after 1 year.

Conclusions

Patients receiving facial skin cancer surgery exhibited low scores for perceived stigmatization and body image concerns. Their quality of life was not statistically influenced by facial surgery, and their satisfaction with their facial appearance and psychosocial distress even improved after 1 year. The results suggest that the surgical treatment type (MMS or CE) does not influence the outcome. The overall results can help in counselling strategies to improve expectations for patients receiving facial surgery.
CircSOD2: Disruption of intestinal mucosal barrier function in ulcerative colitis by regulating the miR‐378g/Snail1 axis
Authors: Ye Guannan , Zhang Jiayi , Peng Jin , Zhou Zhen , Wang Weining , Yao Si
Published: April 2024

Background and Aim

Circular RNA (circRNA) has been found to mediate ulcerative colitis (UC) progression by regulating intestinal mucosal barrier function. However, the role of circSOD2 in UC process and its underlying molecular mechanism still need to be further elucidated.

Methods

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced Caco2 cells were used to mimic UC cell models. CircSOD2, miR‐378g, and Snail1 levels were determined by quantitative real‐time PCR. Cell viability was detected using MTT assay, and inflammatory cytokine levels were measured using ELISA. The intestinal mucosal barrier function was evaluated by testing transepithelial electrical resistance and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐dextran permeability. Snail1 and tight junction‐related markers (Zo‐1 and Claudin2) protein levels were examined using western blot. The interaction between miR‐378g and circSOD2 or Snail1 was confirmed by dual‐luciferase reporter assay. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) was used to induce UC rat models in vivo.

Results

CircSOD2 was overexpressed in UC patients, and its knockdown significantly increased cell viability, transepithelial electrical resistance, and tight junction‐related protein expression, while reduced inflammation cytokine levels and the permeability of FITC‐dextran in LPS‐induced Caco2 cells. In terms of mechanism, circSOD2 sponged miR‐378g to positively regulate Snail1 expression. MiR‐378g inhibitor reversed the effect of circSOD2 knockdown on intestinal mucosal barrier injury and Snail1 expression in LPS‐induced Caco2 cells. In DSS‐induced UC rat models, circSOD2 knockdown also could repair the intestinal mucosal barrier injury through regulating miR‐378g/Snail1 axis.

Conclusion

CircSOD2 could destroy intestinal mucosal barrier function in LPS‐induced Caco2 cells and DSS‐induced UC rats by miR‐378g/Snail1 axis.
Development and validation of a questionnaire to assess health‐related quality‐of‐life in cats with hyperthyroidism
Authors: Blunschi Fabienne , Schofield Imogen , Muthmann Sofie , Bauer Natali B. , Hazuchova Katarina
Published: April 2024

Background

Health‐related quality‐of‐life (HRQoL) assessment tools are becoming increasingly important for the assessment of diseases in veterinary medicine.

Objectives

To develop a tool to assess the HRQoL of hyperthyroid cats and their owners.

Animals

Cats with hyperthyroidism (n = 229) and without hyperthyroidism (n = 322).

Methods

Cross‐sectional study design. A preliminary list of 28 questions relating to the HRQoL of hyperthyroid cats and the influence their cat's disease might have on owners was created. Each question consisted of 2 subquestions: (1) “how often does the item apply”; (2) “how strongly does the item affect HRQoL.” The questionnaire was refined based on statistical analysis, including Mann‐Whitney‐U tests on each item, comparing the results from cats with and without hyperthyroidism. Internal consistency and reliability of the questions were measured by Cronbach's alpha (α). P < .05 was considered significant.

Results

Overall, 25/28 questions were retained within the final HRQoL tool, which had an excellent internal consistency (α = .92). The tool produced a score between 0 and 382 (lower scores meaning better HRQoL). The median HRQoL score was 87.5 (range, 2‐348) for cats with hyperthyroidism, and 27 (range, 0‐249) for cats without (P < .001), suggesting the HRQoL was poorer in hyperthyroid cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

This validated HRQoL tool is useful to reliably quantify the influence of hyperthyroidism on the quality‐of‐life of affected cats and their owners. In the future, it could be considered of assistance in the clinical assessment of cats with hyperthyroidism.
A novel four‐gene‐based inheritance model explains gradations of nakedness in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Revanasiddayya  , Patil Shreekant S. , Nidagundi Jayaprakash Mohan , Maralappanavar Manjula S. , Patil S. B. , Kariyannanavar Prashant
Published: April 2024

In crop improvement, delineating inheritance pattern of a character guides a plant breeder to choose appropriate breeding procedure, which enables ease of improving phenotypic expression of the traits. To deduce the inheritance pattern of naked seed or fuzzless character, four parental lines involving two purely naked seed types (DHN‐1 and DHN‐10), one partial naked seed type (SP46CC) and one fully fuzzy type (OSB415) were used to develop three different types of crosses, namely, naked × naked seed type cross (N × N), partial naked × naked seed type cross (PN × N) and fuzzy × naked seed type cross (F × N). We observed that naked trait segregates in the ratio of 11 naked: 5 partial naked in N × N cross, 22 naked: 42 partial naked in PN × N cross and 22 naked: 42 partial naked: 192 fuzzy in F × N cross. Our study reports a novel four‐gene model to understand inheritance nature of naked seed character where the presence of single basic dominant fuzzy gene negates the effect of genes controlling nakedness resulting fuzzy phenotype irrespective of the number of partial fuzzyness/nakedness imparting alleles. This indicates that nakedness is recessive to fuzzyness. Based on our results, we infer observing gradations of nakedness on seeds depends on the presence of number of partial fuzzyness imparting alleles, which led to a conclusion that the trait exhibited dose‐dependent expression with one basic gene for fuzziness.
Epigenomic mechanism regulating the quality and ripeness of apple fruit with differing harvest maturity
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Jiahe , Li Yu , Lv Yongqian , Zhao Juan , Li Hao , Zhang Bo , Zhang Mengsheng , Tian Jianwen , Li Xiaolong , Xing Libo
Published: April 2024

Harvest maturity significantly affects the quality of apple fruit in post‐harvest storage process. Although the regulatory mechanisms underlying fruit ripening have been studied, the associated epigenetic modifications remain unclear. Thus, we compared the DNA methylation changes and the transcriptional responses of mature fruit (MF) and immature fruit (NF). There were significant correlations between DNA methylation and gene expression. Moreover, the sugar contents (sucrose, glucose, and fructose) were higher in MF than in NF, whereas the opposite pattern was detected for the starch content. The expression‐level differences were due to DNA methylations and ultimately resulted in diverse fruit textures and ripeness. Furthermore, the higher ethylene, auxin, and abscisic acid levels in MF than in NF, which influenced the fruit texture and ripening, were associated with multiple differentially expressed genes in hormone synthesis, signaling, and response pathways (ACS, ACO, ZEP, NCED, and ABA2) that were regulated by DNA methylations. Multiple transcription factor genes involved in regulating fruit ripening and quality via changes in DNA methylation were identified, including MIKCC‐type MADS‐box genes and fruit ripening‐related genes (NAP, SPL, WRKY, and NAC genes). These findings reflect the diversity in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression and may be relevant for elucidating the epigenetic regulatory mechanism underlying the ripening and quality of apple fruit with differing harvest maturity.
Application of the unified theory of behavior to strengthen sexual health discussions between providers and young patients in the United States
Authors: Lanier Yzette , Rivera‐Cash Dennis , Lavarin Claudine , Goldstein Alena , Cantu Luke , Phung Baomi , Guilamo‐Ramos Vincent , Sutton Madeline
Published: April 2024

Context

Sexual health discussions between healthcare providers and adolescent and young adult patients are an important strategy for addressing and improving sexual health. However, healthcare providers often do not engage in comprehensive sexual health discussions with young patients during routine clinical visits.

Methods

We propose the use of a conceptual model, the Unified Theory of Behavior (UTB), as a tool that can aid healthcare providers in facilitating more comprehensive sexual health conversations with young patients.

Results

We present clinical scenarios on how healthcare providers can use the UTB with existing sexual health assessments during routine, clinical visits with their patients.

Conclusions

Using the UTB may be one effective tool to aid healthcare providers in initiating sexual health discussions and facilitating more comprehensive sexual health conversations with adolescent and young adult patients during routine clinical visits and sexual and reproductive health‐focused visits.
Mangiferin improves early porcine embryonic development by reducing oxidative stress
Authors: Ji He‐Wei , Wang Chao‐Rui , Yuan Xiu‐Wen , Wang Jing , Wang Lin , Cao Qi‐Long , Li Ying‐Hua , Xu Yong‐Nan , Kim Nam‐Hyung
Published: April 2024

Mangiferin (MGN) is primarily found in the fruits, leaves, and bark of plants of the Anacardiaceae family, including mangoes. MGN exhibits various pharmacological effects, such as protection of the liver and gallbladder, anti‐lipid peroxidation, and cancer prevention. This study aimed to investigate the effects of MGN supplementation during in vitro culture (IVC) on the antioxidant capacity of early porcine embryos and the underlying mechanisms involved. Porcine parthenotes in the IVC medium were exposed to different concentrations of MGN (0, 0.01, 0.1, and 1 μM). The addition of 0.1 μM MGN significantly increased the blastocyst formation rate of porcine embryos while reducing the apoptotic index and autophagy. Furthermore, the expression of antioxidation‐related (SOD2, GPX1, NRF2, UCHL1), cell pluripotency (SOX2, NANOG), and mitochondria‐related (TFAM, PGC1α) genes was upregulated. In contrast, the expression of apoptosis‐related (CAS3, BAX) and autophagy‐related (LC3B, ATG5) genes decreased after MGN supplementation. These findings suggest that MGN improves early porcine embryonic development by reducing oxidative stress‐related genes.
Advances in lung transplantation: 60 years on
Authors: Paraskeva Miranda A. , Snell Gregory I.
Published: April 2024

Lung transplantation is a well‐established treatment for advanced lung disease, improving survival and quality of life. Over the last 60 years all aspects of lung transplantation have evolved significantly and exponential growth in transplant volume. This has been particularly evident over the last decade with a substantial increase in lung transplant numbers as a result of innovations in donor utilization procurement, including the use donation after circulatory death and ex‐vivo lung perfusion organs. Donor lungs have proved to be surprisingly robust, and therefore the donor pool is actually larger than previously thought. Parallel to this, lung transplant outcomes have continued to improve with improved acute management as well as microbiological and immunological insights and innovations. The management of lung transplant recipients continues to be complex and heavily dependent on a tertiary care multidisciplinary paradigm. Whilst long term outcomes continue to be limited by chronic lung allograft dysfunction improvements in diagnostics, mechanistic understanding and evolutions in treatment paradigms have all contributed to a median survival that in some centres approaches 10 years. As ongoing studies build on developing novel approaches to diagnosis and treatment of transplant complications and improvements in donor utilization more individuals will have the opportunity to benefit from lung transplantation. As has always been the case, early referral for transplant consideration is important to achieve best results.
The institutionalization of “serial personalization” in Argentina's Peronist Party, 1983–2023
Authors: Malamud Andres , Marsteintredet Leiv
Published: April 2024

Objective

The purpose of this article is to explain how Peronism, an allegedly personalist party, has managed to institutionalize its internal power struggles and its succession procedures since democratization in 1983.

Methods

The authors employ the common conceptual framework developed for this special issue. Evidence is drawn from public media, scholarly sources, and participant observation. A two‐tier approach to party adaptation is developed to distinguish the capacity to adjust to electoral challenges from the capacity to adjust to governmental challenges.

Results and conclusion

The authors develop the concept of “serial personalization” to describe an informally routinized feature by which middle‐rank and subnational leaders transfer their loyalty from one personalistic leader to another as long as he or she delivers the best possible electoral performance and, when in office, fiscal transferences.
Enhancing soil properties through sustainable agronomic practices reduced the occurrence of kiwifruit vine decline syndrome
Authors: Sofo Adriano , Dichio Bartolomeo , Elshafie Hazem S. , Camele Ippolito , Calabritto Maria , Tomasi Isabella , Mastroleo Marco , Xylogiannis Evangelos , D'Ippolito Ilaria , Mininni Alba N.
Published: April 2024

Kiwifruit vine decline syndrome (KVDS) is an emerging challenge related to various factors, including water stagnation, soil compaction, root hypoxia, imbalanced soil redox potential, soil nutrient imbalance and fungal pathogens, yet its definitive causes remain unconfirmed. This study compared soils and roots of healthy plants (CTRL group) and plants affected by KVDS (KVDS group) at a kiwifruit orchard (Actinidia chinensis cv. ‘Zesy002’) in Sermoneta (Lazio region), Italy. Our findings indicate that soil redox potential, a parameter related to soil oxidation, and soil macroporosity were significantly lower in the KVDS soils. The water table was also found to be higher in the KVDS block of the orchard, demonstrating a higher soil water content. This suggests less aeration and more water content in KVDS‐affected soils compared to the control. Root analyses showed that KVDS led to browning and decomposition of rhizodermis, decay of the central stele, detachment of the cortex, reduced cell size and the presence of starch granules in the parenchyma, with significant variations in root morphometric parameters. To mitigate KVDS, sustainable agronomic practices, including precision irrigation, green manure, compost addition and water drainage root pruning, were carried out on some KVDS‐symptomatic vines (SUST group). Molecular analyses revealed the presence of 10 fungal species from treated root plants, with Paraphaeosphaeria michotii, Fusarium oxysporum and Ilyonectria vredenhoekensis being frequently isolated from symptomatic KVDS‐affected plants but less from SUST plants. Also, Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, showed an effect against I. vredenhoekensis and P. michotii, and may be suitable candidates as biocontrol agents. The adoption of sustainable agronomic practices resulted in significantly more healthy plants (46% increase) by the end of the trial, demonstrating that a sustainable soil use and water management at kiwifruit orchards can mitigate KVDS through restoration of natural growth conditions.
Identification of a new HLA‐B allele, HLA‐B*35:594
Authors: Loginova Maria , Smirnova Daria , Paramonov Igor , Belyaev Andrey
Published: April 2024

A novel HLA‐B*35 allele, officially designated HLA‐B*35:594, was identified by next‐generation sequencing.
Identification of the novel HLA‐C allele, HLA‐C*12:351Q, using next‐generation sequencing
Authors: AlZahrani Saber , Alharbi Hassan , Bamrdouf Rafah , Ajebi Ali , Mohammed Amani
Published: April 2024

The novel allele HLA‐C*12:351Q differs from HLA‐C*12:02:02:01 by a single nucleotide deletion in exon 5.
Epigenetic dissection of human blood group genes reveals regulatory elements and detailed characteristics of KEL and four other loci
Authors: Wu Ping Chun , McGowan Eunike C. , Lee Yan Quan , Ghosh Sudip , Hansson Jenny , Olsson Martin L.
Published: April 2024

Background

Blood typing is essential for safe transfusions and is performed serologically or genetically. Genotyping predominantly focuses on coding regions, but non‐coding variants may affect gene regulation, as demonstrated in the ABO, FY and XG systems. To uncover regulatory loci, we expanded a recently developed bioinformatics pipeline for discovery of non‐coding variants by including additional epigenetic datasets.

Methods

Multiple datasets including ChIP‐seq with erythroid transcription factors (TFs), histone modifications (H3K27ac, H3K4me1), and chromatin accessibility (ATAC‐seq) were analyzed. Candidate regulatory regions were investigated for activity (luciferase assays) and TF binding (electrophoretic mobility shift assay, EMSA, and mass spectrometry, MS).

Results

In total, 814 potential regulatory sites in 47 blood‐group‐related genes were identified where one or more erythroid TFs bound. Enhancer candidates in CR1, EMP3, ABCB6, and ABCC4 indicated by ATAC‐seq, histone markers, and co‐occupancy of 4 TFs (GATA1/KLF1/RUNX1/NFE2) were investigated but only CR1 and ABCC4 showed increased transcription. Co‐occupancy of GATA1 and KLF1 was observed in the KEL promoter, previously reported to contain GATA1 and Sp1 sites. TF binding energy scores decreased when three naturally occurring variants were introduced into GATA1 and KLF1 motifs. Two of three GATA1 sites and the KLF1 site were confirmed functionally. EMSA and MS demonstrated increased GATA1 and KLF1 binding to the wild‐type compared to variant motifs.

Discussion

This combined bioinformatics and experimental approach revealed multiple candidate regulatory regions and predicted TF co‐occupancy sites. The KEL promoter was characterized in detail, indicating that two adjacent GATA1 and KLF1 motifs are most crucial for transcription.
Evaluation of clinical response and prognostic factors in canine multicentric lymphoma treated with first rescue therapy
Authors: Blaxill John E. , Bennett Peter F.
Published: April 2024

Despite an initial strong response in most dogs with multicentric lymphoma treated with chemotherapy, relapse remains common. There is no clearly superior first rescue protocol described either for resistant or relapsed canine multicentric lymphoma. The objectives of this study were to assess clinical response and outcomes for canine multicentric lymphoma treated with first rescue protocols. The secondary objective was to assess prognostic variables for dogs undergoing these protocols. This was a bi‐institutional retrospective cohort study. Two hundred and sixty‐five dogs were treated with first rescue chemotherapy, including anthracycline‐based combination chemotherapy (CHOP‐like, n = 50), nitrosourea alkylating agent‐rich chemotherapy (n = 45), anthracycline‐based or related compound chemotherapy (n = 34), or nitrosourea single‐agent chemotherapy (n = 136). The overall median progression free survival time of first rescue protocol was 56.0 days (0–455 days). Important prognostic factors identified for first rescue protocol included the attainment of a complete response to the first rescue chemotherapy (p < .001), the use of a CHOP‐like first rescue protocol (p = .009), duration of first remission (HR 0.997, p = .028), and if prednisolone was included in the first rescue protocol (HR 0.41, p = .003). Adverse events (AE) were common, with 81.1% of dogs experiencing at least one AE during first rescue chemotherapy. This study highlights the need for improved first rescue therapies to provide durable remission in canine resistant or relapsed lymphoma.
Brazilian Women in Paralympic Sports: Uncovering Historical Milestones in the Summer Paralympic Games
Authors: dos Santos Luiz Gustavo T. Fabricio , Alves Isabella dos Santos , Feliciano Náthali Fernanda , Torres Africa Alejandra Ortuño , de Campos Luis Felipe Castelli Correia , Alves Maria Luiza Tanure
Published: April 2024

The journey of Brazilian female Paralympians transcends mere statistical increases in women’s participation. Behind the modest athlete growth lies the reality of women who are doubly marginalized by the intersection of gender and disability in an arena tailored for able-bodied men. Our study aimed to catalyze critical discourses surrounding the historical trajectory of Paralympic women’s sports. Through a comprehensive documentary analysis based on the Brazilian Paralympic Committee’s official documents from 1976 to 2021, we sought to shed light on this complex scenario. Numerically, Brazil’s representation comprised 229 women who, predominantly, had physical impairments and engaged in individual sports. In addition to a sporting legacy deeply entrenched in physical rehabilitation with limited opportunities for team-based sports, we observed negative influences stemming from ableist and sexist narratives. A thorough investigation into Paralympic milestones revealed a multitude of social barriers and highlighted the significant impact of societal changes in reshaping athletic opportunities and challenging traditional stereotypes.