bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 Pandemic Preparedness and Response in Latin American Countries: Scoping Review and Analysis Based on World Health Organization Standards
Authors: Ramírez Berrío Lilian Sofía , Vanegas Duarte Esteban Orlando , Velásquez Morales Alejandra , Niño Cruz Gloria Isabel , Salas Zapata Leonardo , Ramírez Varela Andrea
Published: November 2024

Objective

To describe COVID-19 pandemic preparedness and response in 6 countries during 2020 and 2021.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, Web of Science, Epistemonikos, LILACS, and Google Scholar regarding the measures adopted to face the COVID-19 pandemic; the checklist of the international World Healths Organization’s (WHO) guide “COVID-19 Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan” was applied.

Results

Most countries coordinated their response at the central level with the establishment of management teams and the activation of emergency operations centers for the coordination of the response to the pandemic. The capacity to perform epidemiological surveillance activities such as early case detection, contact tracing, and real-time monitoring of data was exceeded. There was low capacity in laboratory infrastructure, specialized human talent, and deployment of molecular testing for SARS-CoV-2 detection.

Conclusions

This is the first review that addresses the importance of documenting how well-prepared countries in the region were to face a pandemic such as COVID-19 taking into account WHO standards and guidelines. In Latin America, the literature showed reports of heterogeneous responses to the pandemic, a gap in the literature on laboratory and diagnostic pillar activities, and a lack of literature reporting on epidemiological surveillance pillar activities in Argentina, Chile, and Ecuador.
Pagers Explosion: Challenges of the Emergency Preparedness Plan
Authors: Kalaji Joelle , Nakhle Ramzi , Weinstein Eric S , Helou Mariana Charbel , Jabbour Elsy
Published: November 2024

On September 17, 2024, an unforeseen attack due to the Pagers Explosion targeting a military party in Lebanon left more than 2750 casualties. A total of 38 injured patients presented to the Lebanese American University Medical Center-Rizk Hospital (LAUMC-RH), a private university hospital. Most injuries were amputated fingers and eye injuries. Intensive training and regular drills are conducted at the hospital level to ensure readiness. This report highlights major challenges that were encountered during this explosion and provides possible strategies to overcome them.
Millets, dogs, pigs and permanent settlement: productivity transitions in Neolithic northern China
Authors: Stevens Chris J. , Zhuang Yijie , Fuller Dorian Q.
Published: November 2024

The transition to sedentary agricultural societies in northern China fuelled considerable demographic growth from 5000 to 2000 BC. In this article, we draw together archaeobotanical, zooarchaeological and bioarchaeological data and explore the relationship between several aspects of this transition, with an emphasis on the millet-farming productivity during the Yangshao period and how it facilitated changes in animal husbandry and consolidation of sedentism. We place the period of domestication (the evolution of non-shattering, initial grain size increase and panicle development) between 8300 and 4300 BC. The domestication and post-domestication of foxtail (Setaria italica) and broomcorn (Panicum miliaceum) millet increased their productivity substantially, with much greater rate of change than for rice (Oryza sativa). However, millets are significantly less productive per hectare than wet rice farming, a point reflected in the greater geographical expanse of northern Neolithic millet cultures (5000–3000 BC) in comparison with their Yangtze rice-growing counterparts. The domestication of pigs in the Yellow River region is evidenced by changes in their morphology after 6000 BC, and a transition to a millet-based diet c. 4500–3500 BC. Genetic data and isotopic data from dogs indicate a similar dietary transition from 6000 to 4000 BC, leading to new starch-consuming dog breeds. Significant population increase associated with agricultural transitions arose predominately from the improvement of these crops and animals following domestication, leading to the formation of the first proto-urban centres and the demic-diffusion of millet agriculture beyond central northern China between 4300–2000 BC.
280 Characters of Contention: Analyzing Partisan Behavior on Twitter During Supreme Court Confirmation Processes
Authors: Sorenson Maron W. , Houston Rachael , Savage Amanda
Published: November 2024

We analyze a cache of tweets from partisan users concerning the confirmation hearings of Justices Brett Kavanaugh, Amy Coney Barrett, and Ketanji Brown Jackson. Using these original data, we investigate how Twitter users with partisan leanings interact with judicial nominations and confirmations. We find that these users tend to exhibit behavior consistent with offline partisan dynamics. Our analysis reveals that Democrats and Republicans express distinct emotional responses based on the alignment of nominees with their respective parties. Additionally, our study highlights the active participation of partisans in promoting politically charged topics throughout the confirmation process, starting from the vacancy stage.
The protective effect of higher serum triacylglycerol (51:4) levels against Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Jing Yajun , Su Jinye , Zhu Honglin , Chen Yiming , Shukla Surmai , Yu Lianghong , Kang Dezhi , Wang Dengliang
Published: November 2024

Emerging evidence has shown a strong correlation between serum triacylglycerol (TAG) levels, the inflammatory response, and Parkinson’s disease (PD) onset. However, the causal relationship between TAG levels and PD has not been well-established. We aimed to investigate the relationship between serum TAG levels and risk of PD and explore the potential mediating role of circulating immune cells and inflammatory proteins. We utilised genotype data from the GeneRISK cohort, and summary data from genome wide association studies investigating PD, circulating immune cells, inflammatory proteins, and plasma lipidomes. Using Mendelian randomization (MR) and multivariate MR (MVMR) analysis, we further adjusted for phosphatidylcholine (17:0_18:1) and triacylglycerol (58:7). Our results suggested a robust causal link between higher serum TAG (51:4) levels and a decreased risk of PD, with one standard deviation genetically instrumented higher serum TAG (51:4) level leading to a 21 percent [95% CI, 0.66 – 0.96] reduction in the risk of PD (p = 0.015). Additionally, the results of the mediation analysis suggested a possible role for mediation through circulating immune cells (including IgD-CD38-B cells and resting CD4 regulatory T cells), but not circulating inflammatory proteins, in the causal relationship between the plasma lipidomes and PD. Our study confirms a causal relationship between higher serum TAG (51:4) levels and a lower risk of PD and clarifies a possible role for mediation through circulating immune cells, but not inflammatory proteins. These findings indicate that serum triacylglycerol (51:4) regulates immunity to effectively lower the risk of PD.
Probiotics’ supplementation alleviates disease severity and improves postural balance by repairing intestinal leak in patients suffering from osteoarthritis: a double-blinded clinical trial
Authors: Karim Asima , Khan Haroon Ahmed , Iqbal M. Shahid , Ahmad Firdos , Qaisar Rizwan
Published: November 2024

Increased intestinal leakiness and associated systemic inflammation are potential contributors to osteoarthritis (OA) and postural imbalance in the geriatric population. To date, no successful treatment to correct postural imbalance in OA is known. We aimed to explore the effects of a multistrain probiotic upon postural imbalance in OA-affected patients. In this randomised, double-blind trial with a placebo group, 147 patients suffering from knee OA (age span = 64–75 years) were divided into placebo (n 75) and probiotics (n 72) study groups. Vivomix 112 billion, multistrain probiotic was given once a day for 12 weeks. The outcomes of study variables were determined first at baseline and later after 12 weeks of intervention. These were Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), knee flexion range of motion (ROM), pain intensity by visual analogue scale, handgrip strength (HGS), gait speed and balance control assessed in standing, semi-tandem and tandem stances. We determined plasma zonulin to determine intestinal leak along with c-reactive protein and 8-isoprostanes levels. A total of 136 OA patients taking placebo (n 71) and probiotics (n 65) were analysed. The probiotics group exhibited a reduction in pain intensity, disease severity and WOMAC scores along with improvement in balance scores, HGS and walking speed (P < 0·05 for all), no change in ROM, resting pain and 8-isoprostanes levels. The correlation analysis revealed a robust association of balance scores with plasma markers of intestinal leakiness and inflammation in probiotics but not in the placebo group. Probiotics reduce postural imbalance in OA patients partly due to a reduction in intestinal leakiness.
Coffee consumption with different additives and types, genetic variation in caffeine metabolism and new-onset acute kidney injury
Authors: Ye Ziliang , Liu Mengyi , Yang Sisi , Zhang Yanjun , Zhang Yuanyuan , He Panpan , Zhou Chun , Gan Xiaoqin , Xiang Hao , Huang Yu , Hou Fan Fan , Qin Xianhui
Published: November 2024

We aimed to evaluate the association of coffee consumption with different additives, including milk and/or sweetener (sugar and/or artificial sweetener), and different coffee types, with new-onset acute kidney injury (AKI), and examine the modifying effects of genetic variation in caffeine metabolism. 194 324 participants without AKI at baseline in the UK Biobank were included. The study outcome was new-onset AKI. During a median follow-up of 11·6 years, 5864 participants developed new-onset AKI. Compared with coffee non-consumers, a significantly lower risk of new-onset AKI was found in coffee consumers adding neither milk nor sugar to coffee (hazard ratio (HR), 0·86; 95 % CI, 0·78, 0·94) and adding only milk to coffee (HR,0·83; 95 % CI, 0·78, 0·89), but not in coffee consumers adding only sweetener (HR,1·14; 95 % CI, 0·99, 1·31) and both milk and sweetener to coffee (HR,0·96; 95 % CI, 0·89, 1·03). Moreover, there was a U-shaped association of coffee consumption with new-onset AKI, with the lowest risk at 2–3 drinks/d, in unsweetened coffee (no additives or milk only to coffee), but no association was found in sweetened coffee (sweetener only or both milk and sweetener to coffee). Genetic variation in caffeine metabolism did not significantly modify the association. A similar U-shaped association was found for instant, ground and decaffeinated coffee consumption in unsweetened coffee consumers, but not in sweetened coffee consumers. In conclusion, moderate consumption (2–3 drinks/d) of unsweetened coffee with or without milk was associated with a lower risk of new-onset AKI, irrespective of coffee type and genetic variation in caffeine metabolism.
Methodological advances in gastrointestinal tract physiology measurements: relevance to nutritional studies
Authors: Biesiekierski Jessica R. , Yao Chu K. , Tuck Caroline J. , Snelson Matthew
Published: November 2024

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract plays a critical role in nutrition and the pathophysiology of disease, and there is an increasing variety of methodologies available for the assessment of various aspects of GI physiology. Advancements in assessment methods, including techniques to study gut motility, fermentation, permeability, and microbiota composition, have provided researchers with powerful tools to investigate the impact of diet on GI tract physiology and the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Mechanistic evidence from reverse translational studies, which apply findings from human studies to preclinical models in a ‘bedside-to-bench’ approach, have also enhanced our understanding of the bidirectional interactions and candidate signalling molecules among the diet-gut-brain relationship. Interpreting data from these advanced techniques and study designs requires a thorough understanding of their principles, applications, and limitations. This review aims to summarise the methodological advances in GI tract physiology measurements and their application in nutritional studies, focusing on gut motility, fermentation, and permeability. We will present examples of how these techniques have been utilised in recent research, discuss their advantages and limitations, and provide insights on their use and interpretation in research. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of these tools is crucial for designing robust studies and elucidating the complex interplay between diet and the GI tract. The scope of this review encompasses recent advancements in GI tract assessment methodologies and their implications for nutritional research, providing a comprehensive overview for researchers in the field.
Unravelling the diversity of Posthodiplostomum Dubois, 1936 (Trematoda: Diplostomidae) in fish-eating birds from the Neotropical region of Mexico, with the description of a new species
Authors: González-García Marcelo Tonatiuh , López-Jiménez Alejandra , Ortega-Olivares Mirza Patricia , Sereno-Uribe Ana Lucia , Pérez-Ponce de León Gerardo , García-Varela Martín
Published: November 2024

Adults of the genus Posthodiplostomum, Dubois, 1936 are parasites of fish-eating birds, mainly of the family Ardeidae, and are globally distributed. The genus currently comprises 35 species, although recent molecular evidence has shown that the diversity of the genus is underestimated since several candidate species have been recognized. In the Neotropical region of Mexico, at least 6 Posthodiplostomum lineages have been detected with metacercaria stages recovered from unrelated fish hosts. Here, we obtained adult specimens of Posthodiplostomum from 6 fish-eating birds representing 2 families (Butorides virescens, Ardea herodias, Nycticorax nycticorax, Tigrisoma mexicanum – Ardeidae, and Rynchops niger and Leucophaeus atricilla – Lariidae) from 4 localities in southern Mexico. Specimens were sequenced for 2 nuclear (28S and ITS1–5.8S–ITS2) and 1 mitochondrial (cox1) molecular marker. Phylogenetic analyses allowed us to link metacercariae and adult specimens and recognized a lineage, which was described morphologically. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by its prosoma morphology and body size; this is the first described species in the Neotropical region of Mexico. Additionally, new host and locality records for P. macrocotyle and P. pricei are presented, expanding their geographical distribution range in the Americas.
Migratory birds have a distinct haemosporidian community and are temporally decoupled from vector abundance at a stopover site
Authors: Galen Spencer C. , Ostrow Emily , Ray Suravi , Henry Marissa , Dispoto Janice , Fetterman Alison , Kiziuk Lisa , Weckstein Jason D.
Published: November 2024

Migratory animals likely play an important role in the geographic spread of parasites. In fact, a common assumption is that parasites are potentially transmitted by migratory animals at temporary stopover sites along migratory routes, yet very few studies have assessed whether transmission at stopover sites can or does occur. We investigated the potential for a group of vector-transmitted parasites, the avian haemosporidians, to be transmitted during migratory stopover periods at Rushton Woods Preserve in Pennsylvania, USA. Using an analysis of 1454 sampled avian hosts, we found that while a core group of abundant haemosporidians was shared between local breeding birds and passing migrants, the parasite community of migratory birds at Rushton was distinct from that of local breeding birds and showed similarity to a previously sampled boreal forest haemosporidian community. Haemosporidians that were unique to passing migratory birds were associated with sampling sites in North America with cooler summer temperatures than haemosporidians that are transmitted at Rushton, suggesting that the transmission of these parasites may be restricted to high-latitude regions outside of our temperate stopover site. We also found that the abundance of mosquitoes in our study region is offset from that of migratory bird abundance during avian migratory periods, with the peak period of bird migration occurring during periods of low mosquito activity. Collectively, these findings suggest that although abundant haemosporidians are possibly transmitted between local and passing migratory birds, a combination of biotic and abiotic factors may constrain haemosporidian transmission during avian stopover at our study site.
The three-domain impact framework for characterizing impact of patient involvement in health technology assessment
Authors: Lopez Gousset Veronica , Silveira Silva Aline , Holtorf Anke-Peggy , Toledo-Chávarri Ana , Single Ann
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Evaluating the impact of patient involvement in health technology assessments (HTA) may help improve practices and avoid ineffective activities. Evaluation, however, continues to be infrequent, inconsistent, and often only relates to process quantity or quality. The Patient and Citizen Involvement in HTA Interest Group (PCIG) within Health Technology Assessment International set out to contextualize this impact to support evaluation.

Methods

Given the lack of established methodology to measure impact, the team performed a qualitative analysis of first-hand accounts about perceived changes in HTA due to involvement of patient stakeholders. A questionnaire was developed, piloted, and rolled out to collect personal perspectives from stakeholders with relevant experience. The stories were analyzed in the aggregate to identify themes in the data.

Results

From January 2019 to September 2021, twenty-four responses were collected through PCIG’s network. Responses (including one joint industry-HTA body submission) came from patient representatives (12), HTA bodies (11), and industry representatives (2) from North America (5), South America (3), Europe (13), and Asia Pacific (3). Based on themes commonly reported, a three-domain framework for evaluating impact is proposed: impact on basis of HTA result or recommendation, impact on HTA body, and impact on patient participants. The framework includes components under each domain to support reporting.

Conclusions

Using the Three-Domain Impact Framework may be useful in identifying, evaluating, and communicating the value of patient involvement in HTA. Enhancing and increasing reporting practices may improve transparency and facilitate process improvements for meaningful integration of patient stakeholders into HTA appraisals across jurisdictions.
‘Par mesure de prudence’. Flood prevention and river regulation in Demer-Dijle confluence area (NE Belgium), 1840s–1880s
Authors: Lathouwers Eline , Segers Yves , Verstraeten Gert
Published: November 2024

This article analyses the views of experts and political discourse on river regulation, its objectives, and flood prevention in the rural Demer-Dijle catchment areas, the 1840s–1880s – a period marked by climatological extremes and agricultural transition. Via a close read of state archives and parliamentary discussions, we unravel different opinions and interests and find that not all flooding was unwanted. While the Ministry of Public Works, at first, aimed to better regulate water discharge and to improve watercourses for navigational purposes, it later prioritised agricultural interests. However, managing rivers coherently and efficiently was challenging because river powers were dispersed over ministerial departments, provinces, and municipalities that made coordinating upstream and downstream river works difficult. Floods often resulted in the drawing up of new plans, but their implementation often failed to materialise because the government had other worries and insufficient resources available while parliamentarians prioritised the interests of their constituencies.
The Value of Life and Reproductive and Professional Autonomy
Authors: Frith Lucy
Published: November 2024

This article considers John Harris’ work on autonomy, specifically reproductive autonomy, outlined in The Value of Life and developed throughout his career. Harris often used the concept of reproductive autonomy to make the case for liberal approaches to developments in reproductive and genetic technologies. Harris argued that reproductive autonomy should be highly valued, and therefore we need compelling arguments to justify limiting it in anyway. When discussing reproductive autonomy, Harris focused mainly on restrictions on the potential users of reproductive technologies autonomy, that is, prospective parents. This article extends the discussion of autonomy and the appropriate limits to individuals exercising their autonomy to medical professionals working in this area. Given reproductive technologies have become part of routine medical practice, this article considers whether the current restrictions on both patients and clinicians, as imposed by regulators and professional guidelines, remain ethically justified.
Association of growth differentiation factor 9 expression with nuclear receptor and basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors in buffalo oocytes during in vitro maturation
Authors: Jain Tripti , Jain Asit , Goswami Surender Lal , Roy Bhaskar , De Sachinandan , Kumar Rakesh , Datta Tirtha Kumar
Published: November 2024

Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) is an oocyte-specific paracrine factor involved in bidirectional communication, which plays an important role in oocyte developmental competence. In spite of its vital role in reproduction, there is insufficient information about exact transcriptional control mechanism of GDF9. Hence, present study was undertaken with the aim to study the expression of basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors (TFs) such as the factor in the germline alpha (FIGLA), twist-related protein 1 (TWIST1) and upstream stimulating factor 1 and 2 (USF1 and USF2), and nuclear receptor (NR) superfamily TFs like germ cell nuclear factor (GCNF) and oestrogen receptor 2 (ESR2) under three different in vitro maturation (IVM) groups [follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF1) and oestradiol)] along with all supplementation group as positive control, to understand their role in regulation of GDF9 expression. Buffalo cumulus–oocyte complexes were aspirated from abattoir-derived ovaries and matured in different IVM groups. Following maturation, TFs expression was studied at 8 h of maturation in all four different IVM groups and correlated with GDF9 expression. USF1 displayed positive whereas GCNF, TWIST1 and ESR2 revealed negative correlation with GDF9 expression. TWIST1 & ESR2 revealing negative correlation with GDF9 expression were found to be positively correlated amongst themselves also. GCNF & USF1 revealing highly significant correlation with GDF9 expression in an opposite manner were found to be negatively correlated. The present study concludes that the expression of GDF9 in buffalo oocytes remains under control through the involvement of NR and bHLH TFs.
Effects of substance exposure on gametes and pre-implantation embryos: a narrative review
Authors: Mehdinejadiani Shayesteh , Khosravizadeh Zahra , Alizadeh Akram , Azad Nahid
Published: November 2024

Substance use refers to the consumption of drugs that have varying degrees of impact on a persons’ physical, mental and emotional well-being. While the adverse health effects of drugs have been extensively documented, further research is needed to understand their impact on fertility. Studies have indicated that substance use affects both the male and female reproductive systems. As substance use is more prevalent among young adults compared with the elderly, it appears that individuals of reproductive age are particularly vulnerable to the reproductive impairments associated with substance use. Although numerous studies have reported detrimental effects of substance use on pregnant women and their foetus during the post-implantation stages, there are limited studies on critical pre-implantation period and gamete stages. In this narrative review, we aimed to focus on the most significant evidence regarding the impact of substances on gametes and pre-implantation embryos.
Anaemia prevalence, its determinants and profile of micronutrient status among rural school adolescent girls aged 14–19 years: a cross-sectional study in Nagpur district, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Dhurde Varsha S , Patel Archana B , Locks Lindsey M , Hibberd Patricia L
Published: November 2024

Objective:

The objective of our study was to determine the prevalence of anaemia among 14–19 years school going girls, risk factors for it and profile of micronutrient status among rural girls from western state of India.

Design:

Using a cross-sectional design, we obtained information on socio-demography, menstruation, dietary habits, knowledge and daily consumption of the government recommended iron and folic acid (IFA) tablets, and anthropometry. Blood was collected to assess Hb, red blood cell indices, serumFe, folate and vitamin B12 levels.

Settings:

Nagpur district, Maharashtra, India.

Participants:

A total of 221 girls aged 14–19 years studying in twenty-four government institutes included.

Results:

57 % girls were anaemic, 84 % had deficiency of one or more micronutrients and 60 % were malnourished based on body mass index (BMI). The prevalence of Fe, vitamin B12 and folate deficiency was 37·7 %, 69·8 % and 1·4 %, respectively. Among anaemic girls, Fe and vitamin B12 deficiency was observed in 45·5 % and 67·5 %, respectively, v. among non-anaemic girls it was 27 % and 73 %, respectively. Fe deficiency was a predictor of anaemia and its severity. Girls residing in non-nuclear family were more likely to have anaemia. The consumption of daily non-vegetarian food and green leafy vegetables was 3 % and 3·6 %, respectively. Only 9 % consumed IFA tablets in the past 2 weeks.

Conclusions:

Anaemia is common in adolescent girls, particularly associated with Fe and vitamin B12 deficiency. There is need to reconsider the approach to prevention of anaemia in adolescent girls, particularly before they become pregnant.
The brilliance of Maria Sklodowska Curie: understanding history is critical to forging the future
Authors: Trombetta Mark , Julian Thomas B.
Published: November 2024

Ask most oncologists (especially radiation oncologists), and you may be hard pressed to find one who professes ignorance of Madame Curie and her historic contributions to medicine. Innumerable publications and media over the past century have correctly memorialised Madame Curie as one of the most brilliant minds in world history. However, do any of us really know the woman and the true extent of her sphere of influence? How, as well, does she fit into modern life and contemporary scientific advancement? Let us try to understand and learn from this complex scientist as more than just one of the most brilliant minds in human history.
Design of a cost-effective intelligent surface structure for field reconfiguration of an antenna
Authors: Ahmed Aijaz , Dubey Satya Kesh
Published: November 2024

This work presents a passive intelligent surface designed at 2.45 GHz that has the capability of transmitting and reflecting electromagnetic waves that are incident upon it. The proposed surface does not require any circuitry or power source to function. Therefore, it makes a cost-effective and simple intelligent surface. It is a simple metallic structure that has embedded waveguide slots on its surface, allowing the waves to couple for transmission. A prototype of the proposed surface is designed using an aluminum foil and analyzed for both transmission and reflection of the wave. Further, the designed surface is investigated for tuning the directionality of the radiated field from the antenna. For this purpose, a coplanar patch antenna is first designed and then combined with the surface to tune the directionality of the radiated field of this antenna. The outcome of the measured performance validates that the proposed surface has the potential capability of field reconfiguration in wireless communication for Wi-Fi, WLAN, and Bluetooth applications.
Topology-based segmentation of 3D confocal images of emerging hematopoietic stem cells in the zebrafish embryo
Authors: Nardi G. , Torcq L. , Schmidt A. A. , Olivo-Marin J.-C.
Published: November 2024

We develop a novel method for image segmentation of 3D confocal microscopy images of emerging hematopoietic stem cells. The method is based on the theory of persistent homology and uses an optimal threshold to select the most persistent cycles in the persistence diagram. This enables the segmentation of the image’s most contrasted and representative shapes. Coupling this segmentation method with a meshing algorithm, we define a pipeline for 3D reconstruction of confocal volumes. Compared to related methods, this approach improves shape segmentation, is more ergonomic to automatize, and has fewer parameters. We apply it to the segmentation of membranes, at subcellular resolution, of cells involved in the endothelial-to-hematopoietic transition (EHT) in the zebrafish embryos.
Gender Matters: A Critical Piece in Mental Health
Authors: Baños Rosa María , Miragall Marta
Published: November 2024

Gender is a socially constructed concept influenced by social practices, norms, and expectations. The impact of gender differences on mental health has been long recognized, with consequences such as over-diagnosis and pathologization or under-diagnosis of some disorders depending on gender. This also has implications for the treatments that each gender receives. In this narrative review, we will analyze (a) the gender differences in the prevalence of mental disorders, (b) the explanations for gender differences in mental health, including biological, social constructionist, and sociocultural risk factors, and (c) the gender differences in the treatment of mental disorders, including differences in health-seeking behavior and treatment outcomes. Overall, there is a consistent pattern of differences in prevalence, with women more likely to have internalizing disorders (e.g., anxiety or depression) and men more likely to have externalizing disorders (e.g., antisocial personality or substance use). The explanations aimed at disentangling the reasons for these gender differences are complex, and several approaches should be considered to achieve a comprehensive explanation. In addition to biological factors (e.g., hormonal changes), social constructionist factors (e.g., biased diagnostic criteria and clinicians’ gender bias) and sociocultural factors (e.g., feminization of poverty, gender discrimination, violence against women, and prescriptive beauty standards) should be considered. Future studies in the field of mental health should consider gender differences and explore the bio-psycho-socio-cultural factors that may underlie these differences.
Chancen und Risiken digitaler Medien für Kinder und Jugendliche
Authors: Eichenberg Christiane , Auersperg Felicitas
Published: November 2024

Digitale Medien haben in der Lebenswelt von Kindern und Jugendlichen eine hohe Bedeutung. Dabei gehen mit der Nutzung moderner Medien sowohl Chancen als auch Risiken einher. Eltern, Lehrkräfte und andere Bezugspersonen stehen vor der Herausforderung, die Medienkompetenz von Kindern und Jugendlichen konstruktiv zu fördern. Dies kann jedoch nur gelingen, wenn Erwachsene wissen, was Heranwachsende heute im Internet bzw. mit ihrem Smartphone tun.
Die Neubearbeitung des Ratgebers gibt zunächst einen Überblick über die Nutzungspraxis verschiedener Medien: Welche Medien werden heute von Kindern und Jugendlichen zu welchem Zweck und vor allem mit welchen Effekten genutzt? Anschließend werden aus entwicklungspsychologischer Perspektive die Potenziale moderner Mediennutzung für die Bereiche Identitätsentwicklung, Aufbau und Pflege sozialer Beziehungen, Lernen, Spielen, Informationsaustausch und Meinungsbildung sowie zur Unterstützung bei typischen Problemen im Jugendalter dargestellt. Den Chancen, die mit der Nutzung digitaler Medien verbunden sind, werden mögliche Risiken durch exzessive, dysfunktionale, selbstschädigende und deviante Nutzungsweisen gegenübergestellt (z.B. Internetsucht, Informationsüberflutung, Cybermobbing, sexuelle Gewalt). Auf der Basis wissenschaftlicher Befunde werden konkrete Hilfestellungen in Form von Checklisten, Fallbeispielen und Verhaltenstipps zum Umgang mit modernen Medien gegeben. Eltern, Lehrkräfte und andere Bezugspersonen erhalten in diesem Ratgeber altersspezifische Hinweise für eine sinnvolle Vermittlung von Medienkompetenz in Familie und Schule.
CuS-NiTe2 embedded phosphorus-doped graphene oxide catalyst for evaluating hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Parvaz Sedigheh , Talebi Vandishi Zahra , Ensafi Ali A. , Zarean Mousaabadi Kimia
Published: November 2024

The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), a crucial half-reaction in the water-splitting process, is hindered by slow kinetics, necessitating efficient electrocatalysts to lower overpotential and enhance energy conversion efficiency. Transition-metal electrode materials, renowned for their robustness and effectiveness, have risen to prominence as primary contenders in the field of energy conversion and storage research. In this investigation, we delve into the capabilities of transition metals when employed as catalysts for the HER. Furthermore, we turn our attention to carbon nanomaterials like graphene, which have exhibited tremendous potential as top-performing electrocatalysts. Nevertheless, advancements are indispensable to expand their utility and versatility. One such enhancement involves the integration of phosphorus-doped graphene. Our research focuses on the synthesis of CuS–NiTe2/PrGO, a nanocomposite with a crystalline structure, through a straightforward method. This nanocomposite exhibits enhanced catalytic activity for the HER, boasting a Tafel slope of 57 mV dec−1 in an acidic environment. Consequently, our findings present a straightforward and efficient approach to developing high-performance electrocatalysts for HER.
Sex differences in the association between repetitive negative thinking and neurofilament light
Authors: Lau Yolanda , Bansal Amit , Palix Cassandre , Demnitz-King Harriet , Wirth Miranka , Klimecki Olga , Chetelat Gael , Poisnel Géraldine , Marchant Natalie L. ,   The Medit-Ageing Research Group, Chocat Anne , Collette Fabienne , De La Sayette Vincent , Delarue Marion , Espérou Hélène , Ferrand Devouge Eglantine , Frison Eric , Gonneaud Julie , Jessen Frank , Kaliman Perla , Kuhn Elizabeth , Lefranc Valérie , Lutz Antoine , Ourry Valentin , Quillard Anne , Salmon Eric , Smagghe Delphine , Smith Rhonda , Schlosser Marco , Touron Edelweiss , Wallet Cédric , Whitfield Tim
Published: November 2024

Emerging evidence suggests that repetitive negative thinking (RNT; i.e., worry and ruminative brooding) is associated with biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease. Given that women have a greater risk of many neurodegenerative diseases, this study investigated whether worry and brooding are associated with general neurodegeneration and whether associations differ by sex. Exploratory analyses examined whether allostatic load, a marker of chronic stress, mediates any observed relationships. Baseline data from 134 cognitively healthy older adults in the Age-Well clinical trial were utilised. Worry and brooding were assessed using questionnaires. Plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL), a biomarker of neurodegeneration, was quantified using a Meso Scale Discovery assay. We found a positive interaction between brooding and sex on NfL, with higher brooding associated with greater NfL levels in women. No associations were observed between worry/ruminative brooding and allostatic load. These results offer preliminary support that RNT is associated with worse brain health, specifically in women.
Glutamylation imbalance impairs the molecular architecture of the photoreceptor cilium
Authors: Mercey Olivier , Gadadhar Sudarshan , Magiera Maria M , Lebrun Laura , Kostic Corinne , Moulin Alexandre , Arsenijevic Yvan , Janke Carsten , Guichard Paul , Hamel Virginie
Published: November 2024

Microtubules, composed of conserved α/β-tubulin dimers, undergo complex post-translational modifications (PTMs) that fine-tune their properties and interactions with other proteins. Cilia exhibit several tubulin PTMs, such as polyglutamylation, polyglycylation, detyrosination, and acetylation, with functions that are not fully understood. Mutations in AGBL5, which encodes the deglutamylating enzyme CCP5, have been linked to retinitis pigmentosa, suggesting that altered polyglutamylation may cause photoreceptor cell degeneration, though the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Using super-resolution ultrastructure expansion microscopy (U-ExM) in mouse and human photoreceptor cells, we observed that most tubulin PTMs accumulate at the connecting cilium that links outer and inner photoreceptor segments. Mouse models with increased glutamylation (Ccp5−/− and Ccp1−/−) or loss of tubulin acetylation (Atat1−/−) showed that aberrant glutamylation, but not acetylation loss, disrupts outer segment architecture. This disruption includes exacerbation of the connecting cilium, loss of the bulge region, and destabilization of the distal axoneme. Additionally, we found significant impairment in tubulin glycylation, as well as reduced levels of intraflagellar transport proteins and of retinitis pigmentosa-associated protein RPGR. Our findings indicate that proper glutamylation levels are crucial for maintaining the molecular architecture of the photoreceptor cilium.
METTL3/MYCN cooperation drives neural crest differentiation and provides therapeutic vulnerability in neuroblastoma
Authors: Thombare Ketan , Vaid Roshan , Pucci Perla , Ihrmark Lundberg Kristina , Ayyalusamy Ritish , Baig Mohammad Hassan , Mendez Akram , Burgos-Panadero Rebeca , Höppner Stefanie , Bartenhagen Christoph , Sjövall Daniel , Rehan Aqsa Ali , Dattatraya Nale Sagar , Djos Anna , Martinsson Tommy , Jaako Pekka , Dong Jae-June , Kogner Per , Johnsen John Inge , Fischer Matthias , Turner Suzanne D , Mondal Tanmoy
Published: November 2024

Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial childhood cancer, caused by the improper differentiation of developing trunk neural crest cells (tNCC) in the sympathetic nervous system. The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) epitranscriptomic modification controls post-transcriptional gene expression but the mechanism by which the m6A methyltransferase complex METTL3/METTL14/WTAP is recruited to specific loci remains to be fully characterized. We explored whether the m6A epitranscriptome could fine-tune gene regulation in migrating/differentiating tNCC. We demonstrate that the m6A modification regulates the expression of HOX genes in tNCC, thereby contributing to their timely differentiation into sympathetic neurons. Furthermore, we show that posterior HOX genes are m6A modified in MYCN-amplified NB with reduced expression. In addition, we provide evidence that sustained overexpression of the MYCN oncogene in tNCC drives METTL3 recruitment to a specific subset of genes including posterior HOX genes creating an undifferentiated state. Moreover, METTL3 depletion/inhibition induces DNA damage and differentiation of MYCN overexpressing cells and increases vulnerability to chemotherapeutic drugs in MYCN-amplified patient-derived xenografts (PDX) in vivo, suggesting METTL3 inhibition could be a potential therapeutic approach for NB.
HFIP mediated oxime ether synthesis: a metal, base and additive free approach
Authors: Dolakasharia Dibyashree , Bora Utpal
Published: November 2024

A metal, base and additive free C–O bond formation strategy for the synthesis of oxime ethers from various oxime derivatives and tertiary and secondary aryl alcohols in the presence of HFIP at 30 °C is developed.
Cu–Mg synergy enhanced synthesis of methyl formate over noble metal-free heterogeneous catalyst systems
Authors: Kaishyop Jyotishman , Mukherjee Arpan , Goswami Abhay Giri , Khan Tuhin Suvra , Bordoloi Ankur
Published: November 2024

Conversion of CO2 to methyl formate over Cu/MgO-ZrO2.
Battery electrode slurry rheology and its impact on manufacturing
Authors: Reynolds Carl D. , Walker Helen , Mahgoub Ameir , Adebayo Ebenezer , Kendrick Emma
Published: November 2024

Slurry rheology is a critical metrology tool for understanding and optimising the manufacture of battery electrodes.
Drafting a picture of wind farms during very hot daytime conditions
Authors: Lim Alane
Published: November 2024

Results can help wind-farm operators adjust their wind farms to maximize energy extracted throughout the day.
Survey-based inference of continental African elephant decline
Authors: Edwards Charles T. T. , Gobush Kathleen S. , Maisels Fiona , Balfour Dave , Taylor Russell , Wittemyer George
Published: November 2024

Long-term quantification of temporal species trends is fundamental to the assignment of conservation status, which in turn is critical for planning and targeting management interventions. However, monitoring effort and methodologies can change over the assessment period, resulting in heterogeneous data that are difficult to interpret. Here, we develop a hierarchical, random effects Bayesian model to estimate site-level trends in density of African elephants from geographically disparate survey data. The approach treats the density trend per site as a random effect and estimates a parametric distribution of these trends for each partitioning of the data. Data were available from 475 sites, in 37 countries, between 1964 and 2016 (a total of 1,325 surveys). We implemented the model separately and in combination for the African forest (
Loxodonta cyclotis
) and savannah (
Loxodonta africana
) elephant species, as well as by region. Inference from these distributions indicates a mean site-level decline for each species over the study period, with the average forest elephant decline estimated to be more than 90% compared to 70% for the savannah elephant. In combination, there has been a mean 77% decline across all sites; but in all models, substantial heterogeneity in trends was found, with stable to increasing trends more common in southern Africa. This work provides the most comprehensive assessment undertaken on the two African elephant species, illustrating the variability in their status across populations.
Prolonged exertion of self-control causes increased sleep-like frontal brain activity and changes in aggressivity and punishment
Authors: Ordali Erica , Marcos-Prieto Pablo , Avvenuti Giulia , Ricciardi Emiliano , Boncinelli Leonardo , Pietrini Pietro , Bernardi Giulio , Bilancini Ennio
Published: November 2024

Impulsive reactions in social interactions may result in poor or even detrimental outcomes. Particular cognitive states, such as mental fatigue induced by extended practice with cognitively demanding activities, especially if combined with sleep restriction or deprivation, seem to impair the individuals’ ability to exert self-control effectively and may result in impulsive behaviors, including aggressive acts. We demonstrate that exertion of self-control for as little as 45 min can lead to an increased propensity for engaging in aggressive acts in the context of socially relevant choices, as measured by a set of economic games. Also, we show that such behavioral changes are associated with increased sleep-like (delta) activity within frontal brain areas related to decision-making and impulse control. The local occurrence of sleep-like slow waves may lead to a disengagement of frontal areas and explain the reduced ability of individuals to exert self-control effectively. Our results suggest that sleep-like activity may emerge within the awake brain within a relatively short time scale, with detectable effects on socially relevant behavior.
Paleo aridity in the Levant driven by a strong North Atlantic latitudinal surface temperature gradient and present-day relevance
Authors: Kushnir Yochanan , Stein Mordechai , Biasutti Michela , Kiro Yael , Goldsmith Yonaton , Goldstein Steven L.
Published: November 2024

The mechanisms underlying the current greenhouse gas (GHG) forced decline in Mediterranean rainfall remain a matter of debate. To inform our understanding of the current and projected drying, we examined extended arid intervals in the late Quaternary, Eastern Mediterranean (EM) Levant indicated by substantial salt deposits in a Dead Sea sediment core covering the past 220 kyr. These arid events occurred during interglacials, when the Earth was at perihelion to the sun in boreal fall and during glacial–interglacial transitions, associated with icesheet melting. Climate models forced with realistic late Quaternary insolation variations show that when the Earth is closest to the Sun in boreal fall, the North Atlantic latitudinal surface temperature gradient in the winter intensifies. In response, the overlying midlatitude North Atlantic jet stream and the extratropical storm track move poleward while sea-level pressure rises in the subtropics. These changes bring about a weakening of the Mediterranean storm track and a decline in rainfall over the entire basin. During glacial–interglacial transitions, meltwater from continental icesheets forced abrupt subpolar North Atlantic cooling. This also strengthened the latitudinal surface temperature gradient, likely causing similar atmospheric response and aridity in the Mediterranean. There is a strong resemblance between this paleoclimate scenario and the climatic changes corresponding to the present and projected GHG drying of the EM. Hence, the late Quaternary palaeohydrology of the Dead Sea indicates an important North Atlantic centered response to external forcing, which leads to Mediterranean drying and is relevant in the present.
MurA-catalyzed synthesis of 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate confers glyphosate tolerance in bryophytes
Authors: Caygill Samuel , Köcher Thomas , Dolan Liam
Published: November 2024

Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum herbicide that kills most vascular plant weeds but is ineffective against many bryophytes. Glyphosate competitively inhibits the enolpyruvyl transferase enzyme 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS). EPSPS catalyzes the production of 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate (EPSP)—an intermediate in the shikimate pathway—from shikimate-3-phosphate (S3P) and phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) substrates. Here, we show that
Marchantia polymorpha
mutants with loss-of-function mutations in a closely related enolpyruvyl transferase, Mp
MurA,
were more sensitive to glyphosate than wild-type controls. Overexpression of Mp
MurA
in
M. polymorpha
increased glyphosate tolerance, and heterologous expression of the
M. polymorpha
MurA enzyme in
Arabidopsis thaliana
conferred glyphosate resistance. Furthermore, we demonstrate that MpMurA catalyzes the production of EPSP from S3P and PEP substrates. These data demonstrate that MpMurA contributes to glyphosate tolerance in
M. polymorpha
. We speculate that the existence of two independent mechanisms for EPSP synthesis—one canonical and EPSPS-dependent, and the other MurA-dependent—may account for glyphosate tolerance in bryophytes. Alternatively, MurA in bryophytes may bind glyphosate, thereby leaving more unbound EPSPS enzymes available, allowing aromatic amino acid biosynthesis to continue.