bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges and motivators for nurses' well-being during and post-COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative exploration
Authors: Kailay Manpreet , Paposa Kamalpreet Kaur , Chhibber Priyanka
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The present study was designed to explore the major challenges being faced by the Indian nurses' pre-post pandemic period affecting their well-being (WB) and identify factors that motivated them to perform their service wholeheartedly during the pandemic. The study also tries to bridge the gap in the study area by providing various ways that can help maintain the WB of health care professionals.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive exploratory qualitative design involving semi-structured interviews was conducted during December–January 2021 with 30 nurses from hospitals in Punjab Qualitative and thematic data analysis technique were adopted. In addition, a literature review was also conducted to study the various factors that affect the WB of health care professionals.

Findings

There are various themes and subthemes that were identified by the health care professionals, such as (1) psychological WB, (2) social WB and (3) workplace WB and (4) key motivators. This research work has identified various managerial implications that can play a huge rolein strengthening the healthcare sector of the entire world economy, paving the way toward the better WB of healthcare professionals (HCPs).

Originality/value

Firstly, it is probably the only study that is performed on nursing staff to evaluate their personal experiences during crucial times. It has successfully compared the factors affecting WB pre- and post-pandemic, leading to the emergence of many new factors that have originated due to the pandemic and are the cause of the poor WB of HCPs (Figures 2, 4). Secondly, it is the only study that targeted only those nurses who have provided their services in both scenarios. Finally, the study has been a pioneer in identifying the importance of maintaining the WB of HCPs at hospitals.
The interplay between defaunation and phylogenetic diversity affects leaf damage by natural enemies in tropical plants
Authors: Emer Carine , Villar Nacho , Melo Natália , Ziparro Valesca B. , Nazareth Sergio , Galetti Mauro
Published: February 2024

Natural enemies play an important role in controlling plant population growth and vegetation dynamics. Tropical rainforests host the greatest diversity of herbivores, from large mammalian ungulates to microscopic pathogens, generating and maintaining plant diversity.

By feeding on the same resources, large mammalian herbivores may interfere with plant consumption and leaf damage by important enemy guilds such as invertebrate herbivores and pathogens, triggering indirect trophic cascades. However, the impact of local extinctions of large herbivores on plant–enemy interactions is relatively unknown.

We experimentally tested the effects of defaunation of large mammalian herbivores (e.g. peccaries, tapirs and brocket deer; hereafter, large herbivores) on the leaf damage of 3350 understorey plants in tropical rainforests of Brazil. We examined leaf damage in 10,050 leaves from 333 morphospecies by assigning the area consumed or damaged by five guilds of insect herbivores and leaf pathogens within 86 paired open‐closed plots and investigating the joint effects of defaunation and plant phylogenetic diversity.

Plants released from large herbivores had 9% less leaf damage; this difference was due to the lower leaf pathogens incidence (29%) rather than insect herbivory. Evolutionary distinctness was positively correlated with leaf damage in a similar way in all treatments, suggesting additive effects of defaunation and phylogenetic diversity. Total and pathogenic leaf damage (but not insect damage) decreased with plant richness across treatments, and large herbivores exclusion resulted in increased plant species richness. This suggests that large herbivores exclusion leads to a dilution of total and pathogens' leaf damage by increasing plant species richness.

Our results suggest that indirect effects of large herbivores decrease the dilution potential of plant communities against pathogens and rather reinforce their top‐down impact on vegetation, demonstrating a previously overlooked cascading effect of large herbivore extinction on forest ecosystems.

Synthesis: The extinction of large mammalian herbivores can lead to a decrease in pathogen‐driven leaf damage, a previously unknown indirect effect in forest ecosystems, which might have consequences for plant fitness and ultimately for plant diversity. Large herbivores and plant pathogens might have synergistic effects in regulating the diversity of plant communities in some of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth.
Divorcing the dead, sharing with Others: negotiating alterity at the edges of a Malaysian rainforest
Authors: Rudge Alice
Published: February 2024

This article explores how people formulate alterity as a responsive endeavour as they seek to live well in a context of profound marginality at the edges of a Malaysian rainforest. It argues that Batek people often narrate, encounter, and enact alterity – drawing distinctions between themselves and Others – through and in relation to acts of sharing. By exploring a diverse set of instances in which decisions about how and whether to share produces moments of tension, this article investigates the conditions of alterity that underlie sharing's very possibility. This involves asking not only how alterity is produced among Batek people, but also how it is extended outwards, both to those Batek term gɔp (outsiders), and to the dead people who continue to intrude in their lives. Through tracing these everyday moments where alterities are worked out between Batek and gɔp, and the living and the dead, it becomes apparent that as people encounter often‐unpredictable Others, an attitude of what Renato Rosaldo calls ‘social grace’ comes to the fore. Retheorizing alterity in the light of ‘social grace’ demonstrates it to be a responsive, indeterminate process of managing detachment and connection through the immediacy of the diverse encounters and ruptures of everyday life.
Sourdough starter culture microbiomes influence physical and chemical properties of wheat bread
Authors: Clark Caitlin S. , Ohstrom Ashley , Rolon M. Laura , Smith Molly , Wolfe Benjamin E. , Wee Josephine , Van Buiten Charlene B.
Published: February 2024

Sourdough fermentation is an ancient leavening method that uses wild yeasts to produce carbon dioxide, contributing to bread rise, and bacteria which produce organic acids. Sourdough starter cultures are known to be diverse in terms of the microorganisms they comprise and while specific genera and species of microorganisms have been identified from starters and associated with specific attributes, overarching relationships between sourdough starter culture microbiomes and bread quality are not well understood. The objective of this study was to characterize differences in the physical and chemical properties of breads produced with sourdough starter cultures with unique microbiomes. Sourdough starter cultures (n = 20) of known microbial populations were used to produce wheat‐based dough and bread, which were analyzed for chemical and physical properties then compared to their microbial populations in order to identify relationships between microbial profiles and dough/bread qualities. All samples were also compared to bread produced only with Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker's yeast). Significant differences among pH, titratable acidity, loaf volume, crumb firmness, crust color, free amino acids, and organic acids were observed when comparing sourdough breads to the yeast‐only control (p ≤ 0.05). Furthermore, bacterial diversity of sourdough starter cultures was correlated with lactic acid and free amino acid in the dough and loaf volume and crumb firmness of baked breads. No significant correlations were found between fungal diversity and measured outcomes. These data demonstrate the importance of considering sourdough starter microbiomes as an ingredient in baked goods and they contribute to quality and safety outcomes in bread production.

Practical Application

Sourdough starter cultures have diverse and dynamic populations of bacteria and yeasts, which contribute to the production of bread products. These populations can influence the physical and chemical properties of sourdough fermentation and final breads. Understanding of the relationship between sourdough starter microbiomes and bread quality parameters can lead to targeted development of sourdough bread products with specific physical and chemical properties.
“The island is now a big vegetable garden”: Imaginaries of Nature and Carceral Reform at Rikers Island
Authors: Alexander Zoe
Published: February 2024

The practice of conflating green with a social and moral good is a historically specific social process. The purpose of this article is to show how that process has made particularly good company for carceral humanism and legitimisation. By tracing initiatives integrating gardening at New York City's Rikers Island jail complex, I argue that projects and narratives cloaked in visions of green, nature, and sustainability obscure and reproduce both popular and institutional claims to expansionist carceral reform in the name of offering an inherently rehabilitative service. Drawing on conversations around commodity fetishism, urban political ecology, sustainability, and carceral reform, this article shows how holding nature as an inherent source of moral high ground that, by default, rehabilitates all who take advantage of it, is to disregard the social mechanisms that in turn naturalise the prison‐industrial complex.
Green Transition's Necropolitics: Inequalities, Climate Extractivism, and Carbon Classes
Authors: Deberdt Raphael , Le Billon Philippe
Published: February 2024

This article theorises the processes of colonisation, wealth accumulation, and inequalities creation that the current paradigm of a resource‐hungry green transition enacts on the most vulnerable populations. We suggest that the extractivist logics and related technical fixes are leading to a “climate necropolitics”. In this, the socio‐economic system is increasingly defined by classes’ carbon exposure and consumption. Through the “green growth” of late capitalism, we theorise the advent of four carbon‐defined classes. Bounded by the access to climate tech capital and consumption of low‐carbon products, these include the ultra‐carbonised, decarbonised, still‐carbonised, and uncarbonised classes—with the first two acting as dominant classes and necropolitical agents sustained by the remaining lower classes. Inspired by Marxist scholars, we suggest that the current status quo is untenable and will result in class warfare during which coalitions between classes could reorient the “make live and let die” of the current green transition paradigm.
Transient abnormal myelopoiesis requiring advanced neonatal intensive care treatment
Authors: Chalia Maria , Seager Emilie , Rao Anupama , Hannam Simon
Published: February 2024

Aim

Five to thirty percent of neonates with trisomy 21 develop transient abnormal myelopoiesis (TAM) with a high mortality rate. The aim of the study was to identify contributing factors that determine mortality and need for chemotherapy in this patient group.

Methods

Six‐year, single‐centre, retrospective study of neonatal TAM cases requiring admission to intensive care. Data were collected from electronic patient records, laboratory and genetic results. The odds ratio was calculated to assess the likelihood of neonates with certain clinical characteristics having short‐term mortality and needing chemotherapy.

Results

Twenty‐one neonates were studied with a mortality rate of 28%. Neonates requiring inotropic support (OR 19, 95% CI: 0.9–399, p = 0.05) and inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) (OR 13, 95% CI: 1.4–124.3, p = 0.03) were less likely to survive to discharge. Neonates needing mechanical ventilation (OR 14, 95% CI: 1.1–185.5, p = 0.04), or a white cell count >50 × 109/L (OR 27, 95% CI: 1.2–605.7, p = 0.04) were more likely to receive chemotherapy.

Conclusion

A high mortality rate was identified in TAM neonates with symptomatic pulmonary hypertension (PH) needing active treatment strategies, such as inotropes and iNO. The presence of PH should be considered in the clinical management, prognosis and parental counselling.
Evaluating tixagevimab/cilgavimab prophylaxis in allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation recipients for COVID‐19 prevention
Authors: Trepl Julia , Pasin Chloé , Schneidawind Dominik , Mueller Nicolas J. , Manz Markus G. , Bankova Andriyana K. , Abela Irene A.
Published: February 2024

Allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation (allo‐HCT) recipients exhibit an increased risk of COVID‐19, particularly in the early post‐transplant phase, due to insufficient vaccine responses. This retrospective study investigated the incidence of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in allo‐HCT recipients who received tixagevimab/cilgavimab pre‐exposure prophylaxis (T/C PrEP) compared to those who did not. Logistic regression, adjusted for sex, age, SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination status and immunosuppressive treatment, revealed a significant reduction in the likelihood of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection risk with T/C PrEP (adjusted odds ratio aOR = 0.26 [0.07, 0.91]). These findings suggest the potential efficacy of monoclonal antibody PrEP in protecting this vulnerable patient population from COVID‐19.
The public, the pandemic, and the public service: The case of Alberta
Authors: Wesley Jared J. , Ribeiro Savannah
Published: February 2024

Public servants play a vital role as intermediaries between policymakers and the public, offering expert advice on public policy and implementing ministerial decisions for the common good. Given that most Canadians interact with non‐partisan, professional bureaucrats, public sentiment towards public servants becomes a crucial indicator of the health of the country's democracy. Trust levels serve as a barometer: high trust aligns with a well‐functioning system, while low trust may challenge government legitimacy and its ability to fulfill democratic mandates. This study explores confidence levels in the public service in Alberta amid the COVID‐19 pandemic, using data from the April 2022 Viewpoint Alberta survey. Our findings illuminate diverse attitudes towards public servants amidst significant social, economic, and political upheaval.
Effects of noninvasive neuromodulation targeting the spinal cord on early learning of force control by the digits
Authors: Urbin Michael A. , Lafe Charley W. , Bautista Manuel E. , Wittenberg George F. , Simpson Tyler W.
Published: February 2024

Aims

Control of finger forces underlies our capacity for skilled hand movements acquired during development and reacquired after neurological injury. Learning force control by the digits, therefore, predicates our functional independence. Noninvasive neuromodulation targeting synapses that link corticospinal neurons onto the final common pathway via spike‐timing‐dependent mechanisms can alter distal limb motor output on a transient basis, yet these effects appear subject to individual differences. Here, we investigated how this form of noninvasive neuromodulation interacts with task repetition to influence early learning of force control during precision grip.

Methods

The unique effects of neuromodulation, task repetition, and neuromodulation coinciding with task repetition were tested in three separate conditions using a within‐subject, cross‐over design (n = 23).

Results

We found that synchronizing depolarization events within milliseconds of stabilizing precision grip accelerated learning but only after accounting for individual differences through inclusion of subjects who showed upregulated corticospinal excitability at 2 of 3 time points following conditioning stimulation (n = 19).

Conclusions

Our findings provide insights into how the state of the corticospinal system can be leveraged to drive early motor skill learning, further emphasizing individual differences in the response to noninvasive neuromodulation. We interpret these findings in the context of biological mechanisms underlying the observed effects and implications for emerging therapeutic applications.
HDAC9‐mediated calmodulin deacetylation induces memory impairment in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Zhang Hai‐Long , Hu Shufen , Yang Pin , Long Han‐Chun , Ma Quan‐Hong , Yin Dong‐Min , Xu Guang‐Yin
Published: February 2024

Aims

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive cognitive dysfunction and memory impairment. AD pathology involves protein acetylation. Previous studies have mainly focused on histone acetylation in AD, however, the roles of nonhistone acetylation in AD are less explored.

Methods

The protein acetylation and expression levels were detected by western blotting and co‐immunoprecipitation. The stoichiometry of acetylation was measured by home‐made and site‐specific antibodies against acetylated‐CaM (Ac‐CaM) at K22, K95, and K116. Hippocampus‐dependent learning and memory were evaluated by using the Morris water maze, novel object recognition, and contextual fear conditioning tests.

Results

We showed that calmodulin (CaM) acetylation is reduced in plasma of AD patients and mice. CaM acetylation and its target Ca2+/CaM‐dependent kinase II α (CaMKIIα) activity were severely impaired in AD mouse brain. The stoichiometry showed that Ac‐K22, K95‐CaM acetylation were decreased in AD patients and mice. Moreover, we screened and identified that lysine deacetylase 9 (HDAC9) was the main deacetylase for CaM. In addition, HDAC9 inhibition increased CaM acetylation and CaMKIIα activity, and hippocampus‐dependent memory in AD mice.

Conclusions

HDAC9‐mediated CaM deacetylation induces memory impairment in AD, HDAC9, or CaM acetylation may become potential therapeutic targets for AD.
TERT mediates the U‐shape of glucocorticoids effects in modulation of hippocampal neural stem cells and associated brain function
Authors: Liu Meng‐Ying , Fan Yixin , Ni Ningjie , Yu Tao , Mao Zhiyuan , Huang Hanyu , Zhang Jing , Tang Yulin , He Hongliang , Meng Fan , You Yongping , Zhou Qi‐Gang
Published: February 2024

Background

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are steroidal hormones produced by the adrenal cortex. A physiological‐level GCs have a crucial function in maintaining many cognitive processes, like cognition, memory, and mood, however, both insufficient and excessive GCs impair these functions. Although this phenomenon could be explained by the U‐shape of GC effects, the underlying mechanisms are still not clear. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms of GCs may provide insight into the treatments for cognitive and mood‐related disorders.

Methods

Consecutive administration of corticosterone (CORT, 10 mg/kg, i.g.) proceeded for 28 days to mimic excessive GCs condition. Adrenalectomy (ADX) surgery was performed to ablate endogenous GCs in mice. Microinjection of 1 μL of Ad‐mTERT‐GFP virus into mouse hippocampus dentate gyrus (DG) and behavioral alterations in mice were observed 4 weeks later.

Results

Different concentrations of GCs were shown to affect the cell growth and development of neural stem cells (NSCs) in a U‐shaped manner. The physiological level of GCs (0.01 μM) promoted NSC proliferation in vitro, while the stress level of GCs (10 μM) inhibited it. The glucocorticoid synthesis blocker metyrapone (100 mg/kg, i.p.) and ADX surgery both decreased the quantity and morphological development of doublecortin (DCX)‐positive immature cells in the DG. The physiological level of GCs activated mineralocorticoid receptor and then promoted the production of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT); in contrast, the stress level of GCs activated glucocorticoid receptor and then reduced the expression of TERT. Overexpression of TERT by AD‐mTERT‐GFP reversed both chronic stresses‐ and ADX‐induced deficiency of TERT and the proliferation and development of NSCs, chronic stresses‐associated depressive symptoms, and ADX‐associated learning and memory impairment.

Conclusion

The bidirectional regulation of TERT by different GCs concentrations is a key mechanism mediating the U‐shape of GC effects in modulation of hippocampal NSCs and associated brain function. Replenishment of TERT could be a common treatment strategy for GC dysfunction‐associated diseases.
Toddlers do not preferentially transmit generalizable information to others
Authors: Karadağ Didar , Bazhydai Marina , Westermann Gert
Published: February 2024

Children actively and selectively transmit information to others based on the type of information and the context during learning. Four‐ to 7‐year‐old children preferentially transmit generalizable information in teaching‐like contexts. Although 2‐year‐old children are able to distinguish between generalizable and non‐generalizable information, it is not known whether they likewise transmit generalizable information selectively. We designed a behavioral study to address this question. Two‐year‐old children were presented with three novel boxes, identical except for their color. In each box, one of two equally salient actions led to a generalizable outcome (e.g., playing a [different] tune in each box), whereas the other led to a non‐generalizable outcome (e.g., turning on a light, vibrating the box, or making a noise). In the discovery phase, children had a chance to discover the functions of each box presented one‐by‐one. Then, in the exploration phase, they were given the opportunity to independently explore all three boxes presented together. Finally, in the transmission phase, an ignorant recipient entered the room and asked the child to show them how these toys work. We measured whether children preferentially transmitted either generalizable or non‐generalizable information when they were asked to demonstrate the function of the toys to a naïve adult. We found that children did not display any preference for transmitting generalizable information. These findings are discussed with respect to toddlers’ selectivity in transmitting information but also the development of sensitivity to information generalizability.

Research Highlight

Young children transmit information to others and do so with some degree of selectivity to a variety of factors.

Generalizability is an important factor affecting information transmission, and older children tend to associate generalizable information with teaching‐like interactions.

We tested whether toddlers selectively transmitted it to others over non‐generalizable information.

We found that toddlers do not show a preference to transmit generalizable over non‐generalizable information.
Dissection of N‐deacetylase and N‐sulfotransferase activities of NDST1 and their effects on Wnt8 distribution and signaling in Xenopus embryos
Authors: Suzuki Minako , Takada Shinji , Mii Yusuke
Published: February 2024

Wnt is a family of secreted signaling proteins involved in the regulation of cellular processes, including maintenance of stem cells, carcinogenesis, and cell differentiation. In the context of early vertebrate embryogenesis, graded distribution of Wnt proteins has been thought to regulate positional information along the antero‐posterior axis. However, understanding of the molecular basis for Wnt spatial distribution remains poor. Modified states of heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans are essential for Wnt8 localization, because depletion of N‐deacetylase/N‐sulfotransferase 1 (NDST1), a modification enzyme of HS chains, decreases Wnt8 levels and NDST1 overexpression increases Wnt8 levels on the cell surface. Since overexpression of NDST1 increases both deacetylation and N‐sulfation of HS chains, it is not clear which function of NDST1 is actually involved in Wnt8 localization. In the present study, we generated an NDST1 mutant that specifically increases deacetylation, but not N‐sulfation, of HS chains in Xenopus embryos. Unlike wild‐type NDST1, this mutant did not increase Wnt8 accumulation on the cell surface, but it reduced canonical Wnt signaling, as determined with the TOP‐Flash reporter assay. These results suggest that N‐sulfation of HS chains is responsible for localization of Wnt8 and Wnt8 signaling, whereas deacetylation has an inhibitory effect on canonical Wnt signaling. Consistently, overexpression of wild‐type NDST1, but not the mutant, resulted in small eyes in Xenopus embryos. Thus, our NDST1 mutant enables us to dissect the regulation of Wnt8 localization and signaling by HS proteoglycans by specifically manipulating the enzymatic activities of NDST1.
Management students create art: A novel approach to introducing supply chain ethics
Authors: David Amy
Published: February 2024

This article details an art assignment given to undergraduate management students in an introductory supply chain management course. Students were asked to choose a supply chain ethics issue, create a work of art that responded to the issue, then write an artist's statement that discussed the thought process and choices made in creating their artwork. The majority of students submitted art that was creative, relevant to supply chain ethics, and well executed. Survey results reveal that students were in agreement that the assignment was more enjoyable than a comparable written assignment. In addition, students’ understanding of ethical issues in supply chain management increased through both the creation of their own art and interactions with the art of their peers. This novel approach to teaching ethics in supply chain management addresses shortcomings in current approaches to business education and helps student build a strong foundation for ethical decision‐making in their future careers.
Individual and temporal variation in movement patterns of wild alpine reindeer and implications for disease management
Authors: Hjermann Tilde Katrina Slotte , Herfindal Ivar , Ratikainen Irja Ida , Strand Olav , Rauset Geir Rune
Published: February 2024

Animal behaviour is important for prevalence and outbreaks of infectious diseases, for instance by affecting individual interactions. Increasing the knowledge of individual movement patterns can provide better insight into disease prevalence and spread, helping to target efforts to minimise disease outbreaks. Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal prion disease affecting cervids. CWD is transmitted by animal‐to‐animal contact and through the environment, thus individual variation in space use and social associations may influence disease transmission patterns and infection risk. CWD was detected in Norwegian alpine reindeer Rangifer tarandus tarandus in 2016, and eradication of the infected population was implemented. A 3:1 infection rate between males and females suggests sex‐specific behavioural drivers. We utilised an extensive individual‐based dataset of 149 GPS‐marked wild reindeer to investigate individual variation in movement patterns in terms of inter‐ and intra‐annual home range size and site fidelity, and variation in home range overlap and distances between individuals. We aimed to identify patterns which could indicate higher potential disease risk. Females had larger annual and seasonal home ranges than males, except during calving and rut. Greater home range overlaps and shorter between‐individual distances were found between same‐sex individuals than different‐sex individuals, except during the rut. Accordingly, the rut season stands out with greater male home ranges, greater home range overlap and shorter distances between males and between males and females, which could indicate that this season is critical for disease transmission. Measures to prevent disease spread should lower contact rates, e.g. by reducing the abundance of adult males before they mix with other groups during the rut. This can be achieved for instance by allowing earlier hunt on adult males when they are distributed in small male groups, to reduce the transmission risk and keep disturbance of other individuals low.
A Delphi method investigation to prioritize activity‐related determinants thought to affect mental health in adolescent populations
Authors: Parsonage‐Harrison Jackie , Eklund Mona , Dawes Helen
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Emergent mental illness during adolescence affects daily functioning, causing disruption to daily activities, routines, and patterns. Multiple inter‐related personal, social and environmental determinants influence the onset, nature and subsequent course of those difficulties. Research suggests a bi‐directional relationship exists between mental health and activity choices. Activity‐focused interventions such as occupational therapy may improve adolescent mental health related outcomes. In this study, we identify and select which activity‐related determinants should be prioritized in the development of an occupation therapy‐based intervention for adolescents with emerging mental health difficulties using expert consensus.

Method

A modified two‐round Delphi survey method was conducted with occupational therapists and researchers to ascertain a consensus opinion on the prioritization of specific activity‐related determinants that influence 16‐ to 17‐year‐olds'.

Results

Eighty‐nine determinants were identified and prioritized. Fourteen of these were personal activity‐related determinants including ‘types of activity’ in which young people engage, the ‘balance of activities’ in which they engage, their ‘over and under consumptions of activities’, and their ‘underdeveloped occupation‐based coping skills’. The expert panel prioritized ‘personal self‐confidence’, ‘values’, and ‘perception of confidence’ in relation to the activities adolescents do.

Conclusions

This study generated a detailed picture of the activity‐related determinants that are important in adolescence, and aligns with the adolescent model of occupational choice. Our findings have potential to inform activity‐related intervention development and policy. Further research is needed, particularly to understand young people's perspectives on these determinants and to investigate the determinants that would benefit from further empirical research.
Estrogen‐mediated coupling via gap junctions in the suprachiasmatic nucleus
Authors: Schlaeger Lina , Olejniczak Iwona , Lehmann Marianne , Schmidt Cosima Xenia , Astiz Mariana , Oster Henrik , Pilorz Violetta
Published: February 2024

The circadian clock orchestrates many physiological and behavioural rhythms in mammals with 24‐h periodicity, through a hierarchical organisation, with the central clock located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) in the hypothalamus. The circuits of the SCN generate circadian rhythms with precision, relying on intrinsic coupling mechanisms, for example, neurotransmitters like arginine vasopressin (AVP), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), neuronal gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) signalling and astrocytes connected by gap junctions composed of connexins (Cx). In female rodents, the presence of estrogen receptors (ERs) in the dorsal SCN suggests an influence of estrogen (E2) on the circuit timekeeping that could regulate circadian rhythm and coupling. To investigate this, we used SCN explants together with hypothalamic neurons and astrocytes. First, we showed that E2 stabilised the circadian amplitude in the SCN when rAVPs (receptor‐associated vasopressin peptides) were inhibited. However, the phase delay induced by VIPAC2 (VIP receptors) inhibition remained unaffected by E2. We then showed that E2 exerted its effects in the SCN via ERβ (estrogen receptor beta), resulting in increased expression of Cx36 and Cx43. Notably, specific inhibition of both connexins resulted in a significant reduction in circadian amplitude within the SCN. Remarkably, E2 restored the period with inhibited Cx36 but not with Cx43 inhibition. This implies that the network between astrocytes and neurons, responsible for coupling in the SCN, can be reinforced through E2. In conclusion, these findings provide new insights into how E2 regulates circadian rhythms ex vivo in an ERβ‐dependent manner, underscoring its crucial role in fortifying the SCN's rhythm.
What's behind the jpg? Understanding consumer adoption of non‐fungible tokens
Authors: Vega Elías , Camarero Carmen
Published: February 2024

NFTs, or non‐fungible tokens (NFTs), are a new form of ownership registration based on blockchain technology that allows digital assets to be exchanged with guarantees of ownership and originality of the artwork involved. This has boosted the trade of these assets and companies have been quick to incorporate NFTs into their marketing strategy, either with their own tokens or by collaborating with established companies in the metaverse. Building on the frameworks of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology 2 (UTAUT2), this study contributes to the literature by analysing the determinants of individuals' adoption of NFTs through two studies. Study 1 relies on qualitative interviews with technology insiders to provide initial insights into these determinants. Study 2 tests the hypotheses developed and compares the results between non‐buyers and buyers in order to analyse the intention to purchase and repurchase NFTs. This study contributes to the UTAUT2 with two new individual‐specific variables of interest for the adoption of this type of product: social capital, and the fear of missing out. Finally, this study concludes with guidelines for companies on how they can use NFTs in their marketing campaigns.
The prevalence, complications, and risk factors for infantile hemangioma: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sun Yuming , Zhao Jinhong , Meng Yu , Luo Xiangyue , Jiang Chufeng , Deng Guangtong , Lei Shaorong
Published: February 2024

The epidemiological landscape of infantile hemangioma (IH) has been extensively explored through diverse data sources; however, a scarcity of systematically pooled and quantified evidence from comprehensive global studies persists. In this meta‐analysis, we systematically review available literature to elucidate the prevalence, distribution of lesions, complications, and risk factors associated with IH. A meticulous search encompassing the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science identified 3206 records, of which 55 studies met the inclusion criteria. We found that the overall prevalence of IH is 2.8% [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.5–4.4%] (31,274,396 infants), and IH was located more frequently in the head and neck with a prevalence of 47.4% (95% CI: 39.5–55.4%). The overall prevalence of complications of IH is 24.3% (95% CI: 18.6–30.5%), ulceration is 16.0% (95% CI: 10.4–21.2%), bleeding is 5.6% (95% CI: 3.3–8.5%), visual impairment is 5.6% (95% CI: 3.0–8.9%), infection is 2.8% (95% CI: 1.5–4.8%), subglottic obstruction is 1.5% (95% CI: 0.5–3.0%), respectively. Through 27 studies, we have evaluated 35 factors encompassing perinatal factors, socioeconomic factors, maternal complications, drug factors, and antepartum procedures, and identified 18 risk factors that increase the prevalence of IH. These findings can greatly assist clinicians and family members in effectively evaluating the risk of IH, and determining whether pregnant women should undergo intensified monitoring or preventive measures.
Effect of ultrasound‐assisted soaking on the hydration kinetics and physicochemical properties of chickpeas
Authors: Bender Denisse , Yamsaengsung Ram , Waziiroh Elok , Schoenlechner Regine , Jaeger Henry
Published: February 2024

Understanding the behaviour of legumes during soaking results of importance since this might affect subsequent processing steps and thus final product quality. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of different ultrasound‐assisted soaking conditions (45.8–108.7 W cm−2 for 10–30 min) on the hydration, physicochemical and nutritional properties of kabuli chickpeas. During sonication, the temperature of the soaking media was either controlled at 20 °C (treatment referred to as US) or allowed to rise (treatment referred to as US + T). Selected temperature treatments without sonication (treatment referred to as T) were also included to identify thermal effects. Results showed that higher sonication intensities enhanced water imbibition up to a moisture content of 74.5% (w/w), being more pronounced in treatments where a temperature rise was allowed. Hydration kinetics were well described by the Peleg model (R2 = 0.961–0.998). Samples treated with temperature (US + T; T) showed high solid (0.8–5.1%), di‐ (13.2–59.7%) and α‐galactosyl‐sucrose oligosaccharide (5.4–58.7%) losses. In contrast, high US treatments enhanced oligosaccharides to up to 26.2% as well as pasting properties, while decreasing leaching losses (0.93–3.33%). Nutritional properties of sonicated chickpeas were only slightly affected after cooking following no clear trend. Overall, sonication was an effective pre‐treatment to reduce hydration time of up to 90% in chickpeas, especially when combined with temperature, and could be applied to drastically reduce the processing time of chickpea and chickpea flour in the food industry.
Effect of frying process on in vitro protein digestibility of traditional Chinese tofu through remodelling protein structure at multiscale
Authors: Yu Ningxiang , Wang Yijue , Zongo Abel Wend‐Soo , Lu Yuanchao , Nie Xiaohua , Ye Qin , Meng Xianghe
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of frying temperature (110, 130, 150, 170, or 190 °C for 3 min) and time (1, 3, or 5 min at 170 °C) on the protein structure and in vitro protein digestibility of traditional Chinese tofu. The results indicated that frying caused the formation of disulfide bonds and loss of ionic bonds, hydrogen bonds, and hydrophobic interactions. The FTIR pattern, surface hydrophobicity, and endogenous fluorescence of tofu changed with frying temperature and time, which verified the protein unfolding and thus provided a prerequisite for subsequent protein reaggregation during the frying process. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the destruction and formation of protein aggregates in fried tofu were regulated by the frying temperature and time. Moderate frying conditions, including frying at 110, 130, or 150 °C for 3 min, or frying at 170 °C for 1 min, improved the protein digestibility of tofu through remodelling protein structure at multiscale. This work provided a valuable insight into the preparation of fried tofu with high quality.
Maybe eating more local food is what we need: qualitative views on plant‐based food among Thai consumers
Authors: Walter Ponjan , Utama‐ang Niramon , Bai‐Ngew Shitapan , Simapaisan Piyawan
Published: February 2024

One way to increase the consumption of nutritious diets as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is by promoting plant‐based (PB) food consumption. Many food companies have been trying to develop innovative PB food products, while some policymakers have been promoting PB diet patterns. This research aims to gain an in‐depth understanding of consumer PB food attitudes and factors affecting consumers' PB food choices. In‐depth interviews with semi‐structured questions and a projective technique were conducted with 28 participants (n = 28) in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in March–April 2022. Quota sampling was based on the equal age and gender of the participants (age between 18–75 years old). Thematic analysis was carried out to identify themes that emerged from the interview. The results revealed that PB food attitudes varied based on age. Among more senior consumers, the PB term was new to them. They perceived local dishes are mainly from plants. For the younger generation, PB food was perceived as fake meat with unnecessary food additives. PB food price was a critical factor for consumer food choice. However, consumers might be persuaded to consume more PB food due to its nutritional benefits and situational factors. A new PB food product concept can be developed from local dishes instead of PB products that have been successfully launched abroad. PB food campaigners can raise awareness about certain ethnic foods instead of giving broad advice about the PB diet concept.
On‐field Agroecosystem Research Experience: An Undergraduate Perspective
Authors: Ndayishimiye Elysee , Dushimeyesu Japhet , Ukwishaka Yvon , Ray Chittaranjan , Fleisher David , Timlin Dennis , Reddy Vangimalla , Malakar Arindam
Published: February 2024

Undergraduate hands‐on research can foster innovation and critical thinking among young scholars to delve into real‐world challenges. Specifically, exploring the critical nexus between water usage and agricultural yield, can foster academic growth and holds the key to addressing global food security in an era of increasing environmental constraints, where students can unlock insights crucial to enhancing crop yield and sustainability. Investigating the intricate relationship between water management and crop productivity through undergraduate research is exemplified in this article. Undergraduate students acquired hands‐on research experience by collecting, processing, and analyzing destructive (crop biomass samples) and non‐destructive (plant height, nodes, and leaf chlorophyll content) cropping system data on soybeans under irrigated and dryland production systems, where they worked closely with the farmer. Identifying the current research problem and study site selection, scientific decision‐making during the field study, developing critical thinking while ensuring research communication skills, and quality assurance and quality control through technology during data collection and analysis were learning outcomes. The research highlights the observed distinct performance between irrigated and non‐irrigated soybeans using non‐destructive plant health and growth indicators with plant biomass, following appropriate quality control and assurance steps. Statistically, irrigated soybeans outperformed non‐irrigated soybeans in terms of average plant height at maturity (irrigated: 97.0±1.7 cm vs. non‐irrigated: 37.4±0.6 cm; p<0.01) and number of nodes on the mainstem (irrigated: 19.5±1.2 vs. non‐irrigated: 12.6±0.8; p<0.01). Findings from this study can help ensure quality control and assurance in future cropping system projects. Through the agroecosystem study, we exhibit the importance and role of undergraduate research opportunities in developing the next generation of problem solvers.
Problem resolution scale: A single‐item instrument for easily assessing clinical improvement
Authors: Vitry Grégoire , Pakrosnis Rytis , Jackson Jeffrey B. , Gallin Emmanuelle , Hoyt Michael F.
Published: February 2024

This study describes the development and tests the validity of the Problem Resolution Scale (PRS)—a single‐item measure developed by researchers at Systemic Practice Research Network (SYPRENE) for assessing the degree to which the focal problem of therapy is perceived as resolved. Data were collected at termination from 747 clients seen across 18 therapists. Results suggested good construct validity, supported by a strong correlation between client and therapist perceptions as assessed by the PRS (r = 0.71, p < 0.001). Good criterion validity was also supported by strong correlations between client‐reported psychological well‐being and functioning at termination and both client‐reported (r = −0.63; p < 0.001) and therapist‐reported (r = −0.66; p < 0.001) problem resolution scores. Linear mixed model regression and stratified correlation analysis controlling for the therapist and presenting problem effects confirmed criterion validity. Results provide initial evidence for the validity and utility of the PRS.
Natural occurrence of pelargonium flower break virus infectingPelargonium zonaleplants in South America
Authors: Bello Vinicius Henrique , Kitajima Elliot Watanabe , Rezende Jorge Alberto Marques
Published: February 2024

In 2023, virus‐like symptoms were observed inPelargonium zonaleplants in Brazil. Transmission electron microscope analysis revealed the presence of isometric particles measuring ca. 30 nm in diameter in leaf extracts and ultrathin sections of symptomatic field plants. Molecular assays using PFBV‐specific primers and sequencing of amplicons identified the pelargonium flower break virus (PFBV, genusAlphacarmovirus). Mechanically inoculated plants ofChenopodium quinoaandP. zonaleexhibited symptoms of chlorotic local lesions and systemic chlorotic spots, respectively. This is the first report of PFBV infectingP. zonaleplants in South America (Brazil).
Serum concentrations of complement C3 and C4 in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy
Authors: Kang Seonggweon , Koo Yoonhoi , Yun Taesik , Chae Yeon , Lee Dohee , Kim Hakhyun , Yang Mhan‐Pyo , Kang Byeong‐Teck
Published: February 2024

Background

High concentrations of complement factors are presented in serum of animal epilepsy models and human patients with epilepsy.

Objectives

To determine whether complement dysregulation occurs in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (IE).

Animals

The study included 49 dogs with IE subgrouped into treatment (n = 19), and nontreatment (n = 30), and 29 healthy dogs.

Methods

In this case‐control study, the serum concentrations of the third (C3) and fourth (C4) components of the complement system were measured using a canine‐specific ELISA kit.

Results

Serum C3 and C4 concentrations were significantly higher in dogs with IE (C3, median; 4.901 [IQR; 3.915‐6.673] mg/mL, P < .001; C4, 0.327 [0.134‐0.557] mg/mL, P = .03) than in healthy control dogs (C3, 3.550 [3.075‐4.191] mg/mL; C4, 0.267 [0.131‐0.427] mg/mL). No significant differences were observed in serum C3 and C4 concentrations between dogs in the treatment (C3, median; 4.894 [IQR; 4.192‐5.715] mg/mL; C4, 0.427 [0.143‐0.586] mg/mL) and nontreatment groups (C3, 5.051 [3.702‐7.132] mg/mL; C4, 0.258 [0.130‐0.489] mg/mL). Dogs with a seizure frequency >3 times/month had significantly higher serum C3 (6.461 [4.695‐8.735] mg/mL; P < .01) and C4 (0.451 [0.163‐0.675] mg/mL; P = .01) concentrations than those with a seizure frequency ≤3 times/month (C3, 3.859 [3.464‐5.142] mg/mL; C4, 0.161 [0.100‐0.325] mg/mL).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dysregulation of classical complement pathway was identified in IE dogs. Serum C3 and C4 concentrations could be diagnostic biomarkers for IE in dogs with higher seizure frequency.
Mollinedia lorencei (Monimiaceae, Laurales), a new species endemic to the Atlantic Forest in the state of Bahia, Brazil
Authors: de Lima Lucas Borges , Alvarenga Zavatin Danilo , Luna Peixoto Ariane , Sano Paulo Takeo , Lírio Elton John de
Published: February 2024

We provide a description and illustration of Mollinedia lorencei, sp. nov. The species exhibits morphological similarities and is compared to both M. lamprophylla and M. dolichotricha. Furthermore, we provide comments on the taxonomy, ecology, geographic distribution and conservation status of this new species.