bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of crystal anisotropy on fracture toughness and strength of ZrB2 microcantilevers
Authors: Csanádi Tamás , Azizpour Ahmad , Vojtko Marek , Fahrenholtz William G.
Published: August 2023

The influence of crystal anisotropy on the micromechanical properties of ceramic grains plays an important role in the design of the macromechanical performance of bulk polycrystalline samples. To this end, the effect of crystal orientation on fracture toughness and strength was investigated by microcantilever bending experiments combined with finite element method (FEM) simulations in grains of a polycrystalline ZrB2 sample. The sample was prepared by hot pressing and the crystal orientations were determined by electron backscatter diffraction after careful surface preparation. The bending tests were carried out on notched and unnotched microcantilevers cut from specific grains along the prismatic (⊥ to c‐axis), basal (∥ to c‐axis), and intermediate (45° to c‐axis) directions of ZrB2 crystals using focused ion beam milling. The fracture toughness and strength were determined by FEM‐derived analytical solutions. The fracture strength was similar with values of about 11–12 GPa in every direction. Enhanced plasticity was found in the intermediate direction of unnotched beams as compared to the other two brittle orientations. The fracture toughness was found to be 30% higher in the intermediate direction (4.1 MPa m0.5) than those measured for the basal (3.1 MPa m0.5) and prismatic directions (3.3 MPa m0.5). These findings were explained by the orientation dependence of slip system activations which provide a new way in the design of textured polycrystalline ZrB2 ceramics toward enhanced damage tolerance.
Amazonian pollen assemblages reflect biogeographic gradients and forest cover
Authors: Blaus A. , McMichael C. N. H. , Raczka M. F. , Herrick C. , Palace M. , Witteveen N. H. , Nascimento M. N. , Bush M. B.
Published: August 2023

Aim

Pollen assemblages are commonly used to reconstruct past climates yet have not yet been used to reconstruct past human activities, including deforestation. We aim to assess (i) how pollen assemblages vary across biogeographic and environmental gradients, (ii) the source area of pollen assemblages from lake sediment samples and (iii) which pollen taxa can best be used to quantify deforested landscapes.

Location

Amazonia.

Taxon

Plantae.

Methods

Pollen assemblages (N = 65) from mud‐water interface samples (representing modern conditions) of lake sediment cores were compared with modern gradients of temperature, precipitation and elevation. Pollen assemblages were also compared with local‐scale estimates of forest cover at 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 40 km buffers around each lake.

Results

Over 250 pollen types were identified in the samples, and pollen assemblages were able to accurately differentiate biogeographic regions across the basin, corresponding with gradients in temperature and precipitation. Poaceae percentages were the best predictor of deforestation, and had a significant negative relationship with forest cover estimates. These relationships were strongest for the 1 km buffer area, weakening as buffer sizes increased.

Main conclusions

The diverse Amazonian pollen assemblages strongly reflect environmental gradients, and percentages of Poaceae best reflect local‐scale variability in forest cover. Our results of modern pollen‐landscape relationships can be used to provide a foundation for quantitative reconstructions of climate and deforestation in Amazonia.
Genetic variants of dipeptidyl peptidase IV are linked to the clinicopathologic development of prostate cancer
Authors: Wen Yu‐Ching , Lin Chia‐Yen , Hsiao Chi‐Hao , Wang Shian‐Shiang , Huang Hsiang‐Ching , Lin Yung‐Wei , Ho Kuo‐Hao , Chang Lun‐Ching , Yang Shun‐Fa , Chien Ming‐Hsien
Published: August 2023

CD26/dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP4) is a multifunctional cell‐surface glycoprotein widely found in many cell types, and a soluble form is present in body fluids. There is longstanding evidence indicating a tumour‐promoting or ‐suppressive role of DPP4 in different cancer types. However, studies focusing on the impacts of genetic variants of DPP4 on cancers are very rare. Herein, we conducted a case–control study to evaluate whether single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of DPP4 were associated with the risk or clinicopathologic development of prostate cancer (PCa). We genotyped four loci of DPP4 SNPs, including rs7608798 (A/G), rs3788979 (C/T), rs2268889 (T/C) and rs6741949 (G/C), using a TaqMan allelic discrimination assay in 704 PCa patients and 704 healthy controls. Our results showed that PCa patients with the DPP4 rs7608798 AG+GG genotype or rs2268889 TC+CC genotype had a higher risk of developing an advanced clinical primary tumour (cT) stage (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.680, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.062–2.659, p = 0.025; AOR: 1.693, 95% CI: 1.092–2.624, p = 0.018). Additionally, in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, we observed that lower DPP4 expression levels were correlated with higher Gleason scores, advanced cT and pathological stages, tumour metastasis, and shorter progression‐free survival rates in PCa patients. Furthermore, overexpression of DPP4 suppressed migration/invasion of metastatic PC3 PCa cells. Our findings suggest that DPP4 levels may affect the progression of PCa, and the DPP4 rs7608798 and rs2268889 SNPs are associated with the clinicopathologic development of PCa in a Taiwanese population.
Ebi3 knockout aggravates experimental periodontitis via Th17 polarization
Authors: Goto Hisashi , Kikuchi Takeshi , Takayanagi Yuhei , Kamiya Yosuke , Suzuki Yuki , Kawamura Shotaro , Sawada Noritaka , Hayashi Jun‐ichiro , Mitani Akio
Published: August 2023

Aim

To investigate the role of Ebi3‐related cytokines (i.e., interleukin [IL]‐35 and/or IL‐27) in experimental periodontitis using Ebi3 knockout (KO) mice.

Materials and Methods

The maxillary right second molar teeth of Ebi3 KO mice and C57BL/6 mice were tied with a silk ligature to induce periodontitis. Three days after ligation, gingival tissues were collected for gene expression analyses. Five days after ligation, the maxillae were removed for haematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry. Seven days after ligation, the maxillae were removed for micro‐computed tomography.

Results

The ligated side of Ebi3 KO mice showed intense alveolar bone resorption, which was substantially more pronounced than in wild‐type (WT) mice. IL‐17A expression was significantly higher in the gingiva of the ligated side of Ebi3 KO mice compared with WT mice. IL‐10 expression was significantly lower in Ebi3 KO mice than in WT mice. The ligature‐induced alveolar bone resorption in Ebi3 KO mice that received recombinant IL‐35 injection was significantly less compared with that in Ebi3 KO mice that received control injection.

Conclusions

Together, these findings suggest that Th17 cells exacerbate experimental periodontitis in mice lacking Ebi3 and that IL‐35 may play a critical role in inhibiting periodontal tissue destruction.
Beauty or function? The opposing effects of natural and sexual selection on cuticular hydrocarbons in male black field crickets
Authors: Mitchell Christopher , Wylde Zachariah , Del Castillo Enrique , Rapkin James , House Clarissa M. , Hunt John
Published: August 2023

Although many theoretical models of male sexual trait evolution assume that sexual selection is countered by natural selection, direct empirical tests of this assumption are relatively uncommon. Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) are known to play an important role not only in restricting evaporative water loss but also in sexual signalling in most terrestrial arthropods. Insects adjusting their CHC layer for optimal desiccation resistance is often thought to come at the expense of successful sexual attraction, suggesting that natural and sexual selection are in opposition for this trait. In this study, we sampled the CHCs of male black field crickets (Teleogryllus commodus) using solid-phase microextraction and then either measured their evaporative water loss or mating success. We then used multivariate selection analysis to quantify the strength and form of natural and sexual selection targeting male CHCs. Both natural and sexual selection imposed significant linear and stabilizing selection on male CHCs, although for very different combinations. Natural selection largely favoured an increase in the total abundance of CHCs, especially those with a longer chain length. In contrast, mating success peaked at a lower total abundance of CHCs and declined as CHC abundance increased. However, mating success did improve with an increase in a number of specific CHC components that also increased evaporative water loss. Importantly, this resulted in the combination of male CHCs favoured by natural selection and sexual selection being strongly opposing. Our findings suggest that the balance between natural and sexual selection is likely to play an important role in the evolution of male CHCs in T. commodus and may help explain why CHCs are so divergent across populations and species.

Abstract

Natural selection (measured via evaporative water loss) and sexual selection (measured via mating success) acting on cuticular hydrocarbons are opposing in male black field crickets (Teleogryllus commodus). This opposing pattern of selection has important implications for how variation is maintained in this important chemical trait.
Meat versus meat alternatives: which is better for the environment and health? A nutritional and environmental analysis of animal‐based products compared with their plant‐based alternatives
Authors: Coffey Alice A. , Lillywhite Robert , Oyebode Oyinlola
Published: August 2023

Background

Poor diets lead to negative health outcomes, including increased risk of noncommunicable diseases. Food systems, most notably agriculture, contribute to greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE) that lead to climate change. Meat consumption plays a role in both health and environmental burden. Consumption of meat alternatives may reduce these harms. The aim was to compare meat products and their plant‐based alternatives on nutritional parameters, GHGE and price to examine if it is feasible and beneficial for policymakers and health professionals to recommend meat alternatives.

Methods

Data on nutritional information and cost for 99 selected products were collected from five UK supermarkets. Estimates for GHGEs for 97 of these products were found through secondary articles. Median values for nutritional value, GHGE (kgCO2e) and price per 100 g were calculated to allow comparisons between meat products and their alternatives. Mann–Whitney U tests were used to look for significant differences for each nutrient, emissions and price.

Results

Meat alternatives contained significantly more fibre and sugar and were significantly higher in price compared to the equivalent meat products. Meat alternatives had a significantly lower number of calories, saturated fat, protein and kgCO2e than meat products. There was no significant difference in the amount of salt between meat and meat alternatives.

Conclusions

Overall, this paper found that meat alternatives are likely to be better for health according to most parameters, while also being more environmentally friendly, with lower GHGEs. However, the higher price of these products may be a barrier to switching to meat alternatives for the poorest in society.
Arabidopsis RNA polymerase II C‐terminal domain phosphatase‐like 1 targets mitogen‐activated protein kinase cascades to suppress plant immunity
Authors: Wei Junjun , Sun Wei , Zheng Xinhang , Qiu Shanshan , Jiao Shuangyu , Babilonia Kevin , Koiwa Hisashi , He Ping , Shan Libo , Sun Wenxian , Cui Fuhao
Published: August 2023

Mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades play pivotal roles in plant defense against phytopathogens downstream of immune receptor complexes. The amplitude and duration of MAPK activation must be strictly controlled, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we identified Arabidopsis CPL1 (C‐terminal domain phosphatase‐like 1) as a negative regulator of microbe‐associated molecular pattern (MAMP)‐triggered immunity via a forward‐genetic screen. Disruption of CPL1 significantly enhanced plant resistance to Pseudomonas pathogens induced by the bacterial peptide flg22. Furthermore, flg22‐induced MPK3/MPK4/MPK6 phosphorylation was dramatically elevated in cpl1 mutants but severely impaired in CPL1 overexpression lines, suggesting that CPL1 might interfere with flg22‐induced MAPK activation. Indeed, CPL1 directly interacted with MPK3 and MPK6, as well as the upstream MKK4 and MKK5. A firefly luciferase‐based complementation assay indicated that the interaction between MKK4/MKK5 and MPK3/MPK6 was significantly reduced in the presence of CPL1. These results suggest that CPL1 plays a novel regulatory role in suppressing MAMP‐induced MAPK cascade activation and MAMP‐triggered immunity to bacterial pathogens.
The GTPase Rab21 is required for neuronal development and migration in the cerebral cortex
Authors: Peralta Cuasolo Yael Macarena , Dupraz Sebastián , Unsain Nicolas , Bisbal Mariano , Quassollo Gonzalo , Galiano Mauricio R. , Grassi Diego , Quiroga Santiago , Sosa Lucas Javier
Published: August 2023

Development of the mammalian neocortex requires proper inside‐out migration of developing cortical neurons from the germinal ventricular zone toward the cortical plate. The mechanics of this migration requires precise coordination of different cellular phenomena including cytoskeleton dynamics, membrane trafficking, and cell adhesion. The small GTPases play a central role in all these events. The small GTPase Rab21 regulates migration and neurite growth in developing neurons. Moreover, regulators and effectors of Rab21 have been implicated in brain pathologies with cortical malformations, suggesting a key function for the Rab21 signaling pathway in cortical development. Mechanistically, it has been posited that Rab21 influences cell migration by controlling the trafficking of endocytic vesicles containing adhesion molecules. However, direct evidence of the participation of Rab21 or its mechanism of action in the regulation of cortical migration is still incomplete. In this study, we demonstrate that Rab21 plays a critical role in the differentiation and migration of pyramidal neurons by regulating the levels of the amyloid precursor protein on the neuronal cell surface. Rab21 loss of function increased the levels of membrane‐exposed APP, resulting in impaired cortical neuronal differentiation and migration. These findings further our understanding of the processes governing the development of the cerebral cortex and shed light onto the molecular mechanisms behind cortical development disorders derived from the malfunctioning of Rab21 signaling effectors.

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The role of prolactin in the suppression of the response to restraint stress in the lactating mouse
Authors: Gustafson Papillon E. , Al‐Isawi Shahd A. , Phillipps Hollian R. , Crosse Hugo W. , Grattan David R. , Bunn Stephen J. , Yip Siew H.
Published: August 2023

Suppression of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis is a well‐characterised maternal adaptation that limits the exposure of the offspring to maternally‐derived stress hormones. This current study has investigated the possible involvement of the lactogenic hormone, prolactin, in this physiologically important adaptation. As expected, circulating prolactin levels were higher in unstressed lactating mice compared to their virgin counterparts. Interestingly however, the ability of an acute period of restraint stress to further elevate prolactin levels was diminished in the former group. The stress‐induced rise in prolactin levels in the virgin animals was concurrent with an increase in prolactin receptor activation within the adrenal cortical cells. This adrenal response was not seen in either the stressed or control lactation group, an observation that may be in part explained by the observed downregulation of prolactin receptor mRNA expression within this tissue. Further evidence of suppression of the HPA axis during lactation was revealed using in situ hybridisation to demonstrate that while acute restraint stress increased corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) mRNA expression in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus in both virgin and lactating mice, the magnitude of this response was reduced in the latter group. This potentially adaptive response did not, however, appear to result from the altered prolactin profile during lactation because it was not affected by the pharmacological suppression of prolactin secretion from the pituitary. This study therefore suggests that during lactation the response of the HPA axis to stress is suppressed at multiple physiological levels which are mediated by both prolactin‐dependent and prolactin‐independent mechanisms.
Benefit of high‐dose oral riboflavin therapy in riboflavin transporter deficiency
Authors: Fennessy Jack R. , Cornett Kayla M. D. , Burns Joshua , Menezes Manoj P.
Published: August 2023

Riboflavin transporter deficiency (RTD) is a progressive inherited neuropathy of childhood onset, characterised by pontobulbar palsy, sensorineural deafness, sensory ataxia, muscle weakness, optic atrophy and respiratory failure. Riboflavin supplementation is beneficial in short‐term reports, but the quantum of benefit in various clinical domains is not well understood. A PubMed search was conducted, which identified 94 genetically confirmed cases of RTD who received riboflavin supplementation and had follow‐up assessments. Information on the clinical and functional status before and after riboflavin supplementation was collected and analysed. Seventy‐six of the 94 patients (80.9%) showed an overall improvement after riboflavin supplementation, and the remaining (19.1%) were stable, though some patients had deteriorations in individual domains with no reported deaths. The domains that had the highest rates of response to riboflavin supplementation were gross motor function (93.3% improved), bulbar palsy (91.3%) and ataxia (90.0%). Improvements were also seen in limb muscle weakness, audiology, facial nerve palsy and respiratory function. Despite treatment, many patients required assistance to ambulate and had severe or profound hearing loss and some remained gastrostomy or tracheostomy dependent. Riboflavin supplementation is a lifesaving intervention for patients with RTD and results in a profound improvement in several functional domains, with early diagnosis and treatment further improving outcomes. Despite treatment, patients are left with residual disability. There is a need to accurately measure functional outcomes in children with RTD and develop additional disease‐modifying therapies.
Fixed and variable longevity income annuities in defined contribution plans: Optimal retirement portfolios taking social security into account
Authors: Horneff Vanya , Maurer Raimond , Mitchell Olivia S.
Published: August 2023

This paper investigates retirees' optimal purchases of fixed and variable longevity income annuities using their defined contribution (DC) plan assets and given their expected social security benefits. As an alternative, we also evaluate using plan assets to boost social security benefits through delayed claiming. Using a calibrated life‐cycle model, we determine that including deferred income annuities in DC accounts is welfare‐enhancing for all sex/education groups examined. We also show that providing access to well‐designed variable deferred annuities with some equity exposure further enhances retiree well‐being, compared to having access only to fixed annuities. Nevertheless, for those facing the highest mortality rates, delaying claiming social security is mostly preferred, whereas those anticipating living longer than average will benefit more from using accumulated DC plan assets to purchase deferred annuities.
Pythium and related species on blueberry plants in South Africa
Authors: Jami Fahimeh , Botha Wilhelm
Published: August 2023

The blueberry industry is one of the successful and expanding agricultural cropping systems in South Africa. As a result of this growth, research into identifying plant disease agents has become increasingly important, yet there are relatively few scientific reports published on the subject in the country. The aim of this study was to identify the causal agents of stunting and leaf scorch on blueberry plants and evaluate their pathogenicity. Root samples were collected from a commercial southern highbush blueberry planting in North West, South Africa. The resulting isolates were identified based on sequence data from the rDNA‐ITS. Three Pythiaceae were identified including Globisporangium ultimum var. sporangiiferum, Globisporangium splendens and Pythium aphanidermatum. Results of pathogenicity trials showed that the isolated species were able to cause disease on 40% of the plants. This is the first official report for G. ultimum var. sporangiiferum in South Africa and the first report of G. ultimum var. sporangiiferum and P. aphanidermatum from blueberry plants.
The association of alcohol use and heavy drinking with subsequent handgun carrying among youth from rural areas
Authors: Ellyson Alice M. , Schleimer Julia P. , Dalve Kimberly , Gause Emma , Weybright Elizabeth H. , Kuklinski Margaret R. , Oesterle Sabrina , Rowhani‐Rahbar Ali
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Alcohol use and handgun carrying are more prevalent among youth in rural than urban areas and their association may be stronger among rural adolescents. Alcohol use may be modifiable with implications for reducing handgun carrying and firearm‐related harm. We examined the association between lagged alcohol use and subsequent handgun carrying in rural areas and examined variation in the association by developmental stages, hypothesizing that it would be stronger among adolescents than youth adults.

Methods

We used a longitudinal sample of 2,002 adolescents from ages 12 to 26 growing up in 12 rural communities in 7 states with surveys collected from 2004 to 2019. We estimated the association of lagged past‐month alcohol use on handgun carrying in the subsequent 12 months using population‐average generalized estimating equations with logistic regression on multiply imputed data.

Findings

During adolescence (ages 12‐18), those who drank heavily had 1.43 times the odds (95% CI = [1.01, 2.03]) of subsequent handgun carrying compared to those who did not drink alcohol, and those who consumed alcohol but did not drink heavily had 1.30 times the odds of subsequent handgun carrying compared to those who did not drink (95% CI = [0.98, 1.71]). During young adulthood (ages 19‐26), associations of alcohol use (OR = 1.28; 95% CI = [0.94, 1.63]) and heavy drinking (OR = 1.38; 95% CI = [1.08, 1.68]) were similar to adolescence.

Conclusions

Alcohol use and subsequent handgun carrying were positively associated during adolescence and young adulthood among individuals who grew up in rural areas, similar to findings in urban areas. Reducing alcohol use may be an important strategy to prevent handgun carrying and firearm‐related harm among young people in rural areas.
Clinical impact of hepatic steatosis on chronic hepatitis B patients in Asia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhou Run , Yang Luping , Zhang Binbin , Gu Yunpeng , Kong Tingting , Zhang Wei , Sun Lei , Liu Chunlan , Kong Ningjia , Li Jie , Shi Junping
Published: August 2023

Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and hepatic steatosis (HS) are two prevalent chronic liver diseases in Asia. The incidence of CHB combined with HS is increasing due to the rising obesity rates. However, the impact of HS on CHB remains a topic of debate. Hereby, this meta‐analysis aims to examine the effect of HS on Asian patients with CHB. Searches were conducted on four databases to identify articles published from 2005 to 2023. The random‐effects or fixed‐effects model was used to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs), weighted mean difference (WMD), and confidence intervals (CIs) for the included articles. Of the 15,959 records screened, 88 studies were included in the analysis of HS prevalence in Asian CHB patients with a prevalence of 36.5% (95% CI: 33.7%–39.3%). In addition, age, sex, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and combined metabolic diseases have varying degrees of impact on HS in CHB patients. Furthermore, the coexistence of HS was negatively associated with the response to antiviral therapy, including hepatitis B surface antigen (HBeAg) seroconversion (OR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.53–0.89) and ALT normalization (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.61–0.92) in CHB patients after 48 weeks of treatment. Regarding disease prognosis, HS was not significantly associated with fibrosis or cirrhosis in CHB patients, while an inverse association was observed between HS and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (OR = 2.93, 95% CI: 1.23–6.99). This implies that the coexistence of HS in CHB patients may exacerbate the progression of HCC, which needs to be verified by further studies.
Assessment of the FreeStyle Libre 2 interstitial glucose monitor in hypo‐ and euglycemic cats
Authors: Berg Alisa S. , Crews Chiquitha D. , Adin Christopher , Alfonso‐Castro Adriana , Hill Susan B. , Mott Jocelyn , Gilor Chen
Published: August 2023

Background

Continuous glucose monitoring systems have been validated for eu‐ and hyperglycemic cats. The FreeStyle Libre 2 (FSL2) is sufficiently accurate in people during hypoglycemia to guide critical treatment decisions without confirmation of blood glucose concentration (BG).

Objectives

Assess FSL2 accuracy in cats with hypoglycemia.

Animals

Nine healthy, purpose‐bred cats.

Methods

Hyperinsulinemic‐hypoglycemic clamps were performed by IV infusion of regular insulin (constant rate) and glucose (variable rate). Interstitial glucose concentration (IG), measured by FSL2, was compared to BG measured by AlphaTrak2. Data were analyzed for all paired measurements (n = 364) and separately during stable BG (≤1 mg/dL/min change over 10 minutes). Pearson's r test, Bland‐Altman test, and Parkes Error Grid analysis respectively were used to determine correlation, bias, and clinical accuracy (P < .05 considered significant).

Results

Overall, BG and IG correlated strongly (r = 0.83, P < .0001) in stable glycemia and moderately at all rates of change (r = 0.69, P < .0001). Interstitial glucose concentration underestimated BG in euglycemia, but the BG‐IG difference was progressively smaller as BG decreased (12.9 ± 12.2, 8.8 ± 11.2, −3.2 ± 7.4, and −7.8 ± 5.2 mg/dL in the ranges of 80‐120 [n = 64], 60‐79 [n = 29], 50‐59 [n = 71], and 29‐49 mg/dL [n = 53], respectively).

Conclusions

Although IG underestimates BG throughout most of the hypo‐euglycemic range, IG generally overestimates BG in marked hypoglycemia (<60 mg/dL). It is therefore imperative to evaluate FSL2 results in this critical range with caution.
CD36 genetic polymorphism and salivary cues are associated with oleic acid sensitivity and dietary fat intake
Authors: Muthuswamy Karthi , Shanmugamprema Deepankumar , Subramanian Gowtham , Ponnusamy Vinithra , Vasanthakumar Keerthana , Krishnan Vasanth , Palanivelu Praveen Raj , Rajasekaran Senthilkumar , Subramaniam Selvakumar
Published: August 2023

There is a lack of research on the combined effects of genetic variations (specifically CD36 SNPs—rs1761667 and rs1527483), dietary food habits (vegetarian or not), and the salivary environment on obesity and taste sensitivity, especially in the Indian population. The current study aims to better understand the relationship between impaired taste perception, fat consumption, higher BMI and obesity development by examining the combined association between CD36 SNPs, oleic acid (OA) detection threshold, and food habits among Indian participants. Furthermore, the relationship between oral fatty acid (FAs) sensitivity and taste physiology factors linked to inflammation and salivary proteins was considered. Participants with the minor allele (AA/AG) of CD36 (in both rs1527483 and rs1761667) consumed more fat, particularly saturated FAs (p = 0.0351). Salivary lipopolysaccharide, which causes inflammation, was significantly greater in non‐vegetarians with a higher BMI (p < 0.05), and it exhibited a negative correlation (r = −0.232 and p < 0.05) with Ki67 gene expression, a marker for taste progenitor cells. A positive correlation (r = 0.474, p = 0.04) between TLR4 mRNA levels and the OA detection threshold was also observed. Participants with BMI > 25 kg/m2 had substantially higher TNF‐α and IL‐6 receptor mRNA expression levels, but there were no significant differences between the vegetarian and non‐vegetarian groups. However, salivary CA‐VI, which has a buffering capability on the oral environment, was lower in non‐vegetarian adults with BMI >25. Thus, it was shown that non‐vegetarians with overweight and obesity in India were in at‐risk groups for the CD36 SNP (AA/AG at rs1761667 and rs1527483) and had higher levels of inflammatory markers, which exacerbated alterations in food behaviour and physiological changes, indicating their relevance in the development of obesity.
Global perspective of kidney diseases: Challenges and changes
Authors: Nangaku Masaomi
Published: August 2023

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health issue worldwide. Although strategies for prevention, early detection and treatment to reduce the progression of CKD should remain continuous endeavours, public funding for kidney replacement therapy is urgently needed in low‐income countries (LICs) and lower‐middle‐income countries (LMICs). A multisectoral approach is needed to tackle the global burden of kidney disease. Getting a new drug, from first testing to final approval by a regulatory agency and ultimately to market, is a long, costly and risky process. While clinical trials and research have delivered new therapies and devices to patients with kidney disease during the last decade, there remains a significant residual risk for patients with CKD. Therefore, developing new drugs for better treatment and patient care is essential. For this purpose, the ISN held a consensus meeting entitled ‘TRANSFORM; TRAnslational Nephrology Science FOR new Medications’, which connected experts in the global kidney community and provided guidance on optimal management of translational animal studies for the development of new drugs to treat kidney diseases.
Exploring hospital practice types and their impact on glomerular pathologic patterns: Insights from the largest kidney biopsy cohort in Thailand
Authors: Kanjanabuch Talerngsak , Isaranuwatchai Suramath , Nopsopon Tanawin , Thammathiwat Theerachai , Pooprasert Thitipong , Puapatanakul Pongpratch , Pongpirul Krit , Chawanasuntorapoj Ratana , Kittiskulnam Piyawan , Eiam‐Ong Somchai , Tungsanga Kring , Chusil Saowaluck , Ophascharoensuk Vuddhidej , Vanichakarn Supat , Sitprija Visith , Boonpucknavig Vijitr ,   the Nephrology Society of Thailand
Published: August 2023

Background

This study aims to investigate the influence of different kidney biopsy practices on the prevalence of glomerular pathologic patterns in the largest kidney biopsy registry in Thailand.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of kidney biopsy records from the period between 2000 and 2014. The records were obtained from 2 major institutions: King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, a large university‐based hospital, and the Kidney Center Bangkok Hospital, which provides pathology services to hospitals throughout Thailand. The study included native kidney biopsies from all provinces in Thailand, excluding paediatric patients, kidney transplant recipients, and cases of inadequate and repeated biopsies. Patient demographics, indications for biopsy, and final glomerular diagnoses were compared across different hospital practice settings: university (UVH), private (PVH) and public (PBH).

Results

A total of 5893 eligible native kidney biopsies were identified from a pool of 7005 biopsies conducted over a 15‐year period in 25 provinces throughout Thailand. The 3 most common indications for biopsy were suspected kidney involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (29%), nephrotic syndrome (NS) (29%), and acute glomerulonephritis (AGN)/rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) (13%). The leading indication for biopsy differed across practice types, with suspected kidney involvement in SLE being the primary indication in UVH, while NS took precedence in both PBH and PVH practices. Notably, UVH performed fewer kidney biopsies for asymptomatic urinary abnormalities and diabetes‐related indications compared with PVH and PBH. The leading glomerular diagnoses correlated with the biopsy indications, with lupus nephritis (LN) being the most common diagnosis in UVH and PBH practices, whiles immunoglobulin A nephropathy was the predominant diagnosis in PVH practice.

Conclusion

Hospital practice types significantly impact the prevalence of glomerular pathologic diagnosis patterns in kidney biopsy data, highlighting the importance of considering this influence in epidemiological comparisons.
Enhancing healthcare quality and outcomes for peritoneal dialysis patients in Thailand: An evaluation of key performance indicators and PDOPPS cohort representativeness
Authors: Boongird Sarinya , Phannajit Jeerath , Kanjanabuch Talerngsak , Chuengsaman Piyatida , Dandecha Phongsak , Halue Guttiga , Lorvinitnun Pichet , Boonyakrai Chanchana , Treamtrakanpon Worapot , Tatiyanupanwong Sajja , Lounseng Niwat , Perl Jeffrey , Johnson David W. , Pecoits‐Filho Roberto , Sritippayawan Suchai , Tungsanga Kriang , Kantachuvesiri Surasak , Ophascharoensuk Vuddhidej ,   Thailand PDOPPS Steering Committee and Advisory Board of Peritoneal Dialysis, The Nephrology Society of Thailand
Published: August 2023

Aim

To assess whether the peritoneal dialysis (PD) centres included in the Peritoneal Dialysis Outcomes and Practise Patterns Study (PDOPPS) in Thailand are representative of other PD centres in the country, based on 8 key performance indicators (KPIs 1–8).

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted comparing PD‐related clinical outcomes between PD centres included in the PDOPPS (the PDOPPS group) and those not included (the non‐PDOPPS group) from January 2018 to December 2019. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors associated with achieving the target KPIs.

Results

Of 181 PD centres, 22 (12%) were included in the PDOPPS. PD centres in the PDOPPS group were larger and tended to serve more PD patients than those in the non‐PDOPPS group. However, the process and outcome KPIs (KPIs 1–8) were comparable between the 2 groups. Large hospitals (≥120 beds), providing care to ≥100 PD cases and having experience for >10 years were independent predictors of achieving the peritonitis rate target of <0.5 episodes/year. Most PD centres in Thailand showed weaknesses in off‐target haemoglobin levels and culture‐negative peritonitis rate.

Conclusions

The PD centres included in Thai PDOPPS were found to be representative of other PD centres in Thailand in terms of clinical outcomes. Thus, Thai PDOPPS findings may apply to the broader PD population in Thailand.
Constipation and clinical outcomes in peritoneal dialysis: Results from Thailand PDOPPS
Authors: Halue Guttiga , Tharapanich Huttaporn , Phannajit Jeerath , Kanjanabuch Talerngsak , Banjongjit Athiphat , Lorvinitnun Pichet , Sritippayawan Suchai , Sopassathit Wichai , Poonvivatchaikarn Ussanee , Buranaosot Somphon , Somboonsilp Wanida , Wongtrakul Pimpong , Boonyakrai Chanchana , Narenpitak Surapong , Tatiyanupanwong Sajja , Saikong Wadsamon , Uppamai Sriphrae , Panyatong Setthapon , Chieochanthanakij Rutchanee , Lounseng Niwat , Wongpiang Angsuwarin , Treamtrakanpon Worapot , Rattanasoonton Peerapach , Lukrat Narumon , Songviriyavithaya Phichit , Parinyasiri Uraiwan , Rojsanga Piyarat , Kanjanabuch Patnarin , Puapatanakul Pongpratch , Pongpirul Krit , Johnson David W. , Perl Jeffrey , Pecoits‐Filho Roberto , Ophascharoensuk Vuddhidej , Tungsanga Kriang ,   Thailand PDOPPS Steering Committee
Published: August 2023

Background

Patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) are widely recognized as valuable predictors of clinical outcomes in peritoneal dialysis (PD). Our study aimed to explore the connections between patient‐reported constipation and clinical outcomes.

Methods

We assessed constipation in patients across 22 facilities participating in the Thailand Peritoneal Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (PDOPPS) from 2014 to 2017. Constipation diagnosis utilized objective assessment tools such as the Bristol stool form scale (BSFS) and a self‐reported questionnaire known as the constipation severity score (CSS). The BSFS is a 7‐level scale that visually inspects feces based on texture and morphology, while the CSS measures constipation duration and severity using a 5‐point Likert scale for various factors. We employed Cox proportional hazards model regression to determine the associations between constipation and clinical outcomes, including mortality, hemodialysis (HD) transfer and peritonitis.

Results

Among 975 randomly selected PD patients from 22 facilities, 845 provided written informed consent, and 729 completed CSS questionnaire. Constipation was prevalent in the PD population (13%), particularly among older patients, those who were caregiver dependent, had diabetes and poorer nutritional status (indicated by lower time‐averaged serum albumin, potassium, creatinine and phosphate concentrations). Twenty‐seven percent of which experiencing symptoms of constipation for over a year. Notably, self‐reported constipation at baseline was significantly associated with a shorter time to first peritonitis and higher rates of peritonitis and death. However, no significant association was found between constipation and HD transfer after adjusting for various factors, including age, gender, PD vintage, comorbidities, shared frailty by study sites and serum albumin.

Conclusion

Patient‐reported constipation independently correlated with increased risks of peritonitis and all‐cause mortality, though no such correlation was observed with HD transfer. These findings underscore the need for further investigation to identify effective interventions for constipation in PD patients.
LncRNA MALAT1 promotes osteogenic differentiation through the miR‐93‐5p/SMAD5 axis
Authors: Gu Yingzhi , Bai Yuxing
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Promoting the osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) is a way to regenerate periodontal bone. This study aimed to determine whether lncRNA MALAT1 promotes the osteogenic differentiation of human PDLSCs in vitro.

Materials and Methods

Human PDLSCs were extracted from the human periodontal ligament, and after osteogenic differentiation was induced using osteogenic medium, the human PDLSCs were transfected with siRNA‐MALAT1, miR‐93‐5p mimics, and miR‐93‐5p inhibitors. The expression of osteogenesis‐related genes was assessed by RT–qPCR and western blotting, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was assessed by ALP activity assay, and the formation of mineralized nodules was assessed by alizarin red S (ARS) staining. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and luciferase assays were performed to assess the binding of MALAT1, miR‐93‐5p, and SMAD5.

Results

The expression of lncRNA metastasis‐associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) was upregulated, while that of miR‐93‐5p was downregulated after PDLSC osteogenic differentiation. Knockdown of MALAT1 inhibited the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs, and MALAT1 expression negatively correlated with miR‐93‐5p expression. miR‐93‐5p inhibited the osteogenic differentiation of human PDLSCs by specifically binding to SMAD5.

Conclusion

MALAT1 regulates human PDLSC differentiation by regulating the miR‐93‐5p/SMAD5 axis.
A review of pediatric fasting guidelines and strategies to help children manage preoperative fasting
Authors: Zhang Eileen , Hauser Neil , Sommerfield Aine , Sommerfield David , von Ungern‐Sternberg Britta S.
Published: August 2023

Fasting for surgery is a routine step in the preoperative preparation for surgery. There have however been increasing concerns with regard to the high incidence of prolonged fasting in children, and the subsequent psycho‐social distress and physiological consequences that this poses. Additionally, the past few years have yielded new research that has shown significant inter‐individual variation in gastric emptying regardless of the length of the fast, with some patients still having residual gastric contents even after prolonged fasts. Additionally, multiple large‐scale studies have shown no long‐term sequalae from clear fluid aspiration, although two deaths from aspiration have been reported within the large Wake Up Safe cohort. This has led to a change in the recommended clear fluid fasting times in multiple international pediatric societies; similarly, many societies continue to recommend traditional fasting times. Multiple fasting strategies exist in the literature, though these have mostly been studied and implemented in the adult population. This review hopes to summarize the recent updates in fasting guidelines, discuss the issues surrounding prolonged fasting, and explore potential tolerance strategies for children.
Deciphering transcriptomic signatures explaining the phenotypic plasticity of nonheading lettuce genotypes under artificial light conditions
Authors: Yamashita Hiroto , Wada Kaede C. , Inagaki Noritoshi , Fujimoto Zui , Yonemaru Jun‐ichi , Itoh Hironori
Published: August 2023

Elucidating the mechanisms and pathways involved in genotype–environment (G×E) interactions and phenotypic plasticity is critical for improving plant growth. Controlled environment agricultural systems allow growers to modulate the environment for particular genotypes. In this study, we evaluated the effects of interactions among 14 genotypes and four artificial light environments on leaf lettuce phenotypes and dissected the underlying molecular mechanism via transcriptome‐based modeling. Variations in morphological traits and phytochemical concentrations in response to artificial light treatments revealed significant G×E interactions. The appropriate genotype and artificial light combinations for maximizing phenotypic expression were determined on the basis of a joint regression analysis and the additive main effect and multiplicative interaction model for these G×E interactions. Transcriptome‐based regression modeling explained approximately 50%–90% of the G×E variations. Further analyzes indicated Red Lettuce Leaves 4 (RLL4) regulates UV‐B and blue light signaling through the effects of the HY5–MBW pathway on flavonoid biosynthesis and contributes to natural variations in the light‐responsive plasticity of lettuce traits. Our study represents an important step toward elucidating the phenotypic variations due to G×E interactions in nonheading lettuce under artificial light conditions.
Gender and age influence the association between gait speed and mild cognitive impairment in community‐dwelling Japanese older adults: from the Japan Prospective Studies Collaboration for Ageing and Dementia (JPSC‐AD)
Authors: Bun Shogyoku , Suzuki Kouta , Niimura Hidehito , Shikimoto Ryo , Kida Hisashi , Shibata Mao , Honda Takanori , Ohara Tomoyuki , Hata Jun , Nakaji Shigeyuki , Maeda Tetsuya , Ono Kenjiro , Nakashima Kenji , Iga Jun‐ichi , Takebayashi Minoru , Ninomiya Toshiharu , Mimura Masaru ,   the JPSC‐AD Study Group
Published: August 2023

Background

Studies have shown that decreased gait speed is associated with impaired cognitive function. However, whether this association is equivalent across ages or genders in the older population remains unclear. Thus, we examined the association between mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and gait speed emphasising the influence of age and gender.

Methods

Overall, 8233 Japanese participants aged ≥65 years were enrolled in this cross‐sectional study between 2016 and 2018. After stratification by gender and age group, the participants' gait speeds were divided into quintiles, and the difference in MCI prevalence at each gait speed quintile was calculated. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the odds of MCI for each quintile and to assess the influence of age and gender.

Results

Males had a consistently higher prevalence of MCI than females. The odds of MCI were increased as gait speed decreased. Logistic regression analyses revealed that in the multivariable‐adjusted model 2, the odds ratios (95% confidence interval; CI) for MCI were 2.02 (1.47–2.76) for females and 1.75 (1.29–2.38) for males in the slowest gait speed quintiles compared to the fastest quintile. In the stratified analyses, only males showed an age‐dependent increase in the associations between gait speed and MCI, while females exhibited comparable associations across age groups.

Conclusions

Reduced gait speed was associated with increased odds of MCI, and this association may vary according to gender and age. Therefore, gait speed could serve as a valuable screening tool for MCI, with gender‐ and age‐dependent clinical implications.
A particle method for 1‐D compressible fluid flow
Authors: Karafyllis Iasson , Papageorgiou Markos
Published: August 2023

This paper proposes a novel particle scheme that provides convergent approximations of a weak solution of the Navier‐Stokes equations for the 1‐D flow of a viscous compressible fluid. Moreover, it is shown that all differential inequalities that hold for the fluid model are preserved by the particle method: mass is conserved, mechanical energy is decaying, and a modified mechanical energy functional is also decaying. The proposed particle method can be used both as a numerical method and as a method of proving existence of solutions for compressible fluid models.
The power of teacher‐toddler relationships and stability of care for language development
Authors: Alves Jessica , Guedes Carolina , Cadima Joana
Published: August 2023

The value of positive teacher‐child relationships for child development is well established for preschool‐ and school‐age children, but little is known regarding children under the age of 3. The current study examined the links between teacher‐child relationship, stability of care, and toddlers’ expressive vocabulary. It also examined whether the associations between the expressive language and the teacher‐child relationship differ depending on the stability of care. Participants of the study were 212 toddlers (50.9% boys) and 36 teachers. Expressive vocabulary skills were assessed individually across two waves, and relationship quality was reported by teachers in the second wave. Results suggested that closeness was associated positively with expressive vocabulary, whereas neither conflict nor dependency were associated with vocabulary. Prior expressive vocabulary also positively predicted closeness, particularly for children with less stable relationships with teachers. Moreover, children who stayed with the same teacher were more likely to have closer, more dependent, and less conflictual relationships with them.
Grounded Cognition Entails Linguistic Relativity: Response to Commentators
Authors: Kemmerer David
Published: August 2023

In this paper, I respond to eight commentaries on my target article called “Grounded cognition entails linguistic relativity: A neglected implication of a major semantic theory.” The commentaries span a broad range of disciplines and perspectives. I have organized my response around the following topics: (1) an introductory synopsis of my main argument; (2) grounded versus amodal theories of concepts; (3) language‐specific versus language‐independent concepts; (4) language, culture, and cognition; (5) language itself as a source of conceptual grounding; (6) abstract concepts, linguistic relativity, and contextual and individual variability; (7) word meanings as language‐specific predictions; and (8) some final remarks about the importance of cross‐linguistic diversity.