bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IL‐4 promotes chondrogenesis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and blockade of IL‐4Rα retards the endochondral ossification during rat embryonic bone development
Authors: Hao Yimeng , Meng Qinghe , Chang Leilei , Qiu Minglong , Han Jianxin , Wang Zhiqin , Li Changwei , Ma Jing , Zhang Xuemei
Published: October 2024

Interleukin‐4 (IL‐4)/IL‐4 receptor alpha (IL‐4Rα) signalling pathways play important roles in the complex process of bone formation and bone remodelling. However, whether IL‐4/IL‐4Rα participates in skeletogenesis during embryonic development is not completely understood. We used the anti‐IL‐4Rα monoclonal antibody (anti‐IL‐4Rα mAb) as a powerful investigational tool to evaluate the potential roles of IL‐4/IL‐4Rα in the chondrogenic differentiation of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) in vitro. Simultaneously, we explored the effect of IL‐4/IL‐4Rα on bone ossification during rat embryo‐fetal development. In this study, we found that, compared to the control group, IL‐4 can significantly promote the chondrogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Furthermore, following exposure to anti‐IL‐4Rα mAb in pregnant rats, unexpected phenomena were observed in fetal bone development, including non‐ossification of the fetal sternum, an incomplete ossification centre in long bones and a reduced number of ossification points in digit (toe) bones. To further investigate the underlying mechanism of the phenotype, we studied the rat sternum as the target organ, starting from different time points of sternum development in the embryonic stage. The results indicated that the retardation mainly occurred in the middle and late stages of embryonic development. This retardation was characterized by the inhibition of the differentiation process of mesenchymal stem cells into chondrocytes, resulting in reduced angiogenesis near the ossification centre, failure of osteoblasts to invade the centre of the cartilage body with the blood vessels and delayed formation of the primary ossification centre (POC). Overall, our study demonstrated the significant function of IL‐4/IL‐4Rα in chondrogenic differentiation of BMSCs and bone ossification during embryo‐fetal development.
Efficacy of weekly versus daily cholecalciferol for repleting serum vitamin D (25(OH)D) deficiency: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Bortolussi‐Courval Émilie , Prosty Connor , Lee Jimin J. , McCarthy Lisa M. , McDonald Emily G. , Lee Todd C.
Published: October 2024

Background/rationale

Weekly cholecalciferol can replace daily supplementation to reduce pill burden in patients with complex medication regimens and hypovitaminosis D, but evidence supporting this switch is unclear.

Objective

We aimed to determine whether weekly cholecalciferol was superior to daily cholecalciferol to replete patients with hypovitaminosis D.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials involving participants with baseline hypovitaminosis D (<30 ng/ml) comparing weekly versus daily cholecalciferol dosing and where serum cholecalciferol was measured within 120 days of starting treatment. We searched MEDLINE, CINAHL and EMBASE from inception to 7 May 2024. A random‐effects meta‐analysis evaluated the odds ratio for repletion of serum vitamin D levels.

Findings

Eight trials involving 542 patients were included in the analysis. Weekly and daily cholecalciferol were not significantly different in correcting hypovitaminosis D (OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 0.3–6.9, p = 0.6, favouring weekly dosing, I2 = 85.3%). A sensitivity analysis excluding otherwise healthy patients had similar findings (OR = 0.8, 95% CI = 0.3–2.1, p = 0.6). Most studies were at risk of bias; the different doses being compared increased the heterogeneity.

Conclusions

Limited direct evidence supports a switch from daily to weekly cholecalciferol dosing; however, weekly supplementation was not demonstrably worse at repleting levels and decreased a patient's daily pill burden.
Return‐on‐Investment Analysis of an Enhanced Community Doula Program: Pre‐ and Post‐COVID‐19 Considerations
Authors: Mottl‐Santiago Julie , Dukhovny Dmitry , Feinberg Emily , Moore Jennifer , Parker Victoria , Cabral Howard , Bowser Diana , Declercq Gene
Published: October 2024

Background

Community doulas are perinatal health workers who provide peer education, resource navigation, and support during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Evidence suggests that doulas improve the experience of care, reduce cesarean birth, and improve breastfeeding outcomes. However, people with low incomes cannot access affordable community doula support in most states due to lack of insurance reimbursement. To determine the affordability of Medicaid reimbursement for doula services, there is a need to fill a gap in research that employs real‐world data and a return‐on‐investment (ROI) analysis approach.

Methods

We conducted a ROI analysis from the healthcare perspective of an enhanced community doula intervention, Best Beginnings for Babies (BBB). Healthcare and program cost data were collected alongside clinical outcomes from a randomized controlled trial of routine maternity care at Boston Medical Center with and without BBB. ROI was calculated as the net healthcare savings divided by the investment costs. Post‐COVID‐19 program costing estimates were also performed.

Results

Average healthcare costs per patient were $18,969 for the BBB group compared with $20,121 for routine care, a savings of $1,152. BBB program costs were an average of $971 per person. There was an 18% ROI. Lower costs for the birth hospitalization and NICU stays accounted for the largest areas of savings. Per‐person program costs using proposed MassHealth fees produced a positive return on investment, although 2023 hospital doula program wages and salaries did not.

Discussion

The BBB‐enhanced community doula program was cost‐saving to payers and increased access to doula support for low‐income people. Even with post‐COVID‐19 increases in program costs, analysis demonstrated doula support was still financially feasible. This study should reassure budget‐conscious Medicaid payers that doula services are affordable.
Birth Outcomes and Prenatal Care Use in the U.S. During the COVID‐19 Pandemic in 2020 and 2021
Authors: Lyu Wei , Wehby George L.
Published: October 2024

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has posed substantial social and economic disruptions that may have had adverse effects on maternal and infant health. This study examines the changes in birth outcomes and prenatal care use during the COVID‐19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021 compared to pre‐pandemic years.

Methods

Data come from birth certificates from the U.S. Vital Statistics Natality Files. The analytical sample includes 18,678,327 births in the 50 states and Washington, DC between 2017 and 2021. An event study is employed to examine changes in multiple birth outcomes and prenatal care use over years adjusting for demographic/socioeconomic characteristics and state of residence.

Results

There were very small changes in birth outcomes during pandemic years in 2020 and 2021. Specifically, low birth weight odds were lower in 2020 (OR = 0.99; 95 CI: 0.98–0.99) but higher in 2021 (OR = 1.03; 95% CI: 1.03–1.04) compared to 2019. C‐section odds were higher in 2021 (OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 1.002–1.008) than in 2019. The mean number of prenatal visits in both 2020 and 2021 relative to 2019 was lower by about 0.3 visits (95% CI: −0.31 to −0.30 in 2021).

Conclusion

Overall, there is no evidence of broad pandemic effects on low birth weight and preterm birth in 2020–2021.
Message framing's limited efficacy in counteracting parental hesitancy towards human papillomavirus vaccination for female adolescents: Insights from a randomized trial
Authors: Shi Naiyang , Liang Jie , Yi Youqin , Miao Ruishuai , Yang Xuying , Yang Liuqing , Tao Tingsu , Zhang Yanlin , Jin Hui , Zheng Xiaoyan
Published: October 2024

Background

Parental acceptance of HPV vaccination remains low. This study investigates the influence of different message framing on Chinese parental intentions to vaccinate their daughters against HPV.

Methods

A 2 (appeal framing: gain vs. loss) × 2 (cultural value: individualism vs. collectivism) × 2 (evidence type: narrative vs. non‐narrative) factorial design was used in an online experiment. Parents of unvaccinated junior high school girls were recruited and included in the experiment. The primary outcome assessed was the reduction in HPV vaccine hesitancy (VH). The analysis of variance tests (ANOVAs) and hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to test the hypotheses.

Results

Of 4012 participants, the majority were women with low VH. Only loss‐framing exerted a direct effect on advocacy (p = .036). Initial VH negatively moderated this effect (p = .027). Except for narrative evidence (p = .068), message framings showed significant small effects in low‐hesitant participants (p = .032). An incentive policy negatively moderated the initial VH's effect on advocacy (p = .042). Persuasion was evident only among low‐hesitant participants not receiving incentives (p = .002). In contrast, for highly hesitant individuals without incentive policies, loss‐framing (p = .024) and collectivism perspective (p = .033) produced counterintuitive effects.

Conclusions

Message framing is effective among low‐hesitant parents of female adolescents in improving HPV vaccination decisions without economic incentives. Non‐narrative evidence and loss‐framing messages should be prioritized over narrative evidence and gain‐framing messages. Nonetheless, caution is warranted when engaging with highly hesitant parents.
EthoCRED: a framework to guide reporting and evaluation of the relevance and reliability of behavioural ecotoxicity studies
Authors: Bertram Michael G. , Ågerstrand Marlene , Thoré Eli S.J. , Allen Joel , Balshine Sigal , Brand Jack A. , Brooks Bryan W. , Dang ZhiChao , Duquesne Sabine , Ford Alex T. , Hoffmann Frauke , Hollert Henner , Jacob Stefanie , Kloas Werner , Klüver Nils , Lazorchak Jim , Ledesma Mariana , Maack Gerd , Macartney Erin L. , Martin Jake M. , Melvin Steven D. , Michelangeli Marcus , Mohr Silvia , Padilla Stephanie , Pyle Gregory , Saaristo Minna , Sahm René , Smit Els , Steevens Jeffery A. , van den Berg Sanne , Vossen Laura E. , Wlodkowic Donald , Wong Bob B.M. , Ziegler Michael , Brodin Tomas
Published: October 2024

Behavioural analysis has been attracting significant attention as a broad indicator of sub‐lethal toxicity and has secured a place as an important subdiscipline in ecotoxicology. Among the most notable characteristics of behavioural research, compared to other established approaches in sub‐lethal ecotoxicology (e.g. reproductive and developmental bioassays), are the wide range of study designs being used and the diversity of endpoints considered. At the same time, environmental hazard and risk assessment, which underpins regulatory decisions to protect the environment from potentially harmful chemicals, often recommends that ecotoxicological data be produced following accepted and validated test guidelines. These guidelines typically do not address behavioural changes, meaning that these, often sensitive, effects are not represented in hazard and risk assessments. Here, we propose a new tool, the EthoCRED evaluation method, for assessing the relevance and reliability of behavioural ecotoxicity data, which considers the unique requirements and challenges encountered in this field. This method and accompanying reporting recommendations are designed to serve as an extension of the “Criteria for Reporting and Evaluating Ecotoxicity Data (CRED)” project. As such, EthoCRED can both accommodate the wide array of experimental design approaches seen in behavioural ecotoxicology, and could be readily implemented into regulatory frameworks as deemed appropriate by policy makers of different jurisdictions to allow better integration of knowledge gained from behavioural testing into environmental protection. Furthermore, through our reporting recommendations, we aim to improve the reporting of behavioural studies in the peer‐reviewed literature, and thereby increase their usefulness to inform chemical regulation.
Exome Sequencing of Consanguineous Pashtun Families With Familial Epilepsy Reveals Causative and Candidate Variants in TSEN54, MOCS2, and OPHN1
Authors: Khan Afrasiab , Muhammad Anees , Ullah Hidayat , Ambreen Hina , Ullah Abeed , May Patrick , Lerche Holger , Haack Tobias B. , Rehman Shoaib ur , Kegele Josua
Published: October 2024

Next‐generation sequencing is advancing in low‐ and middle‐income countries, but accessibility remains limited. In Pakistan, many members of the Pashtun population practice familial marriage and maintain distinct socio‐cultural traditions, isolating them from other ethnic groups. As a result, they may harbor genetic variants that could unveil new gene‐disease associations. To investigate the genetic basis of epilepsy in the Pashtun community we recently established a collaboration between Bannu University and the University of Tuebingen. Here we report our first results of exome sequencing of four families with presumed monogenetic epilepsy and Mendelian inheritance pattern. In Family #201, we identified distinct disease‐causing variants. One had a homozygous pathogenic missense variant in TSEN54 (c.919G > T, p.(Ala307Ser)), linked to Pontocerebellar Hypoplasia Type 2A. The second individual had a homozygous class IV missense variant in MOCS2 (c.226G > A, p.(Gly76Arg)) which is associated with Molybdenum cofactor deficiency. In family EP02, one affected individual carried a heterozygous class III variant in OPHN1 (c.1490G > A, p.(Arg497Gln)), related to syndromic X‐linked intellectual disability with epilepsy. Our small study demonstrates the promise of next‐generation sequencing in genetic epilepsies among the Pashtun population. Diagnostic next‐generation sequencing should be established in Pakistan as soon as possible, and if not feasible, genetic research projects may pioneer this path.
A Simple Computational Model of Semantic Priming in 18‐Month‐Olds
Authors: Gliozzi Valentina
Published: October 2024

We propose a simple computational model that describes potential mechanisms underlying the organization and development of the lexical‐semantic system in 18‐month‐old infants. We focus on two independent aspects: (i) on potential mechanisms underlying the development of taxonomic and associative priming, and (ii) on potential mechanisms underlying the effect of Inter Stimulus Interval on these priming effects. Our model explains taxonomic priming between words by semantic feature overlap, whereas associative priming between words is explained by Hebbian links between semantic representations derived from co‐occurrence relations between words (or their referents). From a developmental perspective, any delay in the emergence of taxonomic priming compared to associative priming during infancy seems paradoxical since feature overlap per se need not be learned. We address this paradox in the model by showing that feature overlap itself is an emergent process. The model successfully replicates infant data related to Inter Stimulus Interval effects in priming experiments and makes testable predictions.
Collaborative conservation for snow leopards: Lessons learned from successful community‐based interventions
Authors: Young Juliette Claire , Alexander Justine Shanti , Agvaantseren Bayarjargal , Bijoor Ajay , Butler Adam , Nawaz Muhammad Ali , Piaopiao Tang , Searle Kate R. , Uulu Kuban Zhumabai , Zhi Lu , Suryawanshi Kulbhushansingh Ramesh , Redpath Stephen M. , Mishra Charudutt
Published: October 2024

Collaborative conservation interventions based on engagement with local communities are increasingly common, especially for large carnivores that negatively impact people's livelihoods and well‐being. However, evaluating the effectiveness of large‐scale community‐based conservation interventions is rarely done, making it problematic to assess or justify their impact. In our study focused on snow leopards (Panthera uncia) in five countries, we show that bespoke and well‐implemented community‐based and conflict management intervention efforts can lead to more sustainable conservation outcomes. Collaborative interventions, spread over about 88,000 km2 of snow leopard habitat, reduced livestock depredation and disease and associated economic costs. Additionally, they generated conservation‐linked livelihoods and enhanced community decision‐making, leading to more positive behavioral intent toward snow leopards and improved communities’ cooperation, economic security, and confidence. Our results provide lessons learned and recommendations for practitioners and governments to alleviate conflicts and foster coexistence with snow leopards and large carnivores more broadly. These include prioritizing locally led tailored solutions based on the PARTNERS principles, recognizing local community rights in conservation decision‐making, and recognizing the role of social norms in ensuring accountability.
Minimum wages and foster care placement disruption
Authors: Neymotin Florence , Hawks William
Published: October 2024

We examine the potential secondary impacts of raising the minimum wage in a jurisdiction on the efficiency of its foster care placement system. We employ the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) restricted‐access dataset representing all children in the US foster care system for the years 2000–21. We calculate placement efficiency as the number of yearly moves experienced by a child in the foster care system, with a decrease in the number of placements interpreted as benefitting children both psychologically and behaviourally. This increase in stability benefits the foster parents and corresponds to a smaller financial strain on the public. After including various controls and state‐year fixed effects, our Tobit and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) analyses find that increased minimum wages are significantly associated with lower levels of placement disruption. We take this as promising initial descriptive evidence for the secondary effects of the minimum wage on reducing the financial burden, and increasing the placement efficiency, of the foster care system.
Glucagon and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 dual agonist therapy: A possible future towards fatty kidney disease
Authors: Kanbay Mehmet , Copur Sidar , Guldan Mustafa , Ozbek Lasin , Mallamaci Francesca , Zoccali Carmine
Published: October 2024

Background

Obesity is a growing epidemic affecting approximately 40% of the adult population in developed countries with major health consequences and comorbidities, including diabetes mellitus and insulin resistance, metabolically associated fatty liver disease, atherosclerotic cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and chronic kidney disease. Pharmacotherapies targeting significant weight reduction may have beneficial effects on such comorbidities, though such therapeutic options are highly limited. In this narrative review, we aim to evaluate current knowledge regarding dual agonist therapies and potential implications for managing fatty kidney and chronic kidney disease.

Results and Conclusion

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 agonists and sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors are two novel classes of glucose‐lowering medications with potential implications and beneficiary effects on renal outcomes, including estimated glomerular filtration rate, albuminuria and chronic kidney disease progression. Recently, dual agonist therapies targeting glucagon‐like peptide‐1 and glucagon receptors, namely survodutide and cotadutide, have been evaluated in managing metabolically associated fatty liver disease, a well‐established example of visceral obesity. Fatty kidney is another novel concept implicated in the pathophysiology of chronic kidney disease among patients with visceral obesity.
Modification, validation and comparison of Naples prognostic score to determine in‐hospital mortality in ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Genc Omer , Yildirim Abdullah , Erdogan Aslan , Ibisoglu Ersin , Guler Yeliz , Capar Gazi , Goksu M. Mert , Akgun Huseyin , Acar Gamze , Ozdogan G. Cansu , Uredi Gunseli , Sen Furkan , Halil Ufuk S. , Er Fahri , Genc Murside , Ozkan Eyup , Guler Ahmet , Kurt Ibrahim H.
Published: October 2024

Aim

The relationship between inflammatory status and poor outcomes in acute coronary syndromes is a significant area of current research. This study investigates the association between in‐hospital mortality and the modified Naples prognostic score (mNPS) as well as other inflammatory biomarkers in STEMI patients.

Methods

This single‐centre, cross‐sectional study included 2576 consecutive STEMI patients who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention between January 2022 and November 2023. Participants were randomly divided into derivation and validation cohorts in a 6:4 ratio. The following inflammatory indices were calculated: pan‐immune‐inflammation value (PIV), systemic immune‐inflammation‐index (SII), systemic inflammation‐response index (SIRI) and conventional NPS. The mNPS was derived by integrating hs‐CRP into the conventional NPS. The performance of these indices in determining in‐hospital mortality was assessed using regression, calibration, discrimination, reclassification and decision curve analyses.

Results

Inflammatory biomarkers, including PIV, SII, SIRI, NPS and mNPS, were significantly higher in patients who died during in‐hospital follow‐up compared to those discharged alive in both the derivation and validation cohorts. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed separately for the derivation and validation cohorts. In the derivation cohort, mNPS was associated with in‐hospital mortality (aOR = 1.490, p < .001). Similarly, in the validation cohort, mNPS was associated with in‐hospital mortality (aOR = 2.023, p < .001). mNPS demonstrated better discriminative and reclassification power than other inflammatory markers (p < .05 for all). Additionally, regression models incorporating mNPS were well‐calibrated and showed net clinical benefit in both cohorts.

Conclusion

mNPS may be a stronger predictor of in‐hospital mortality in STEMI patients compared to the conventional scheme and other inflammatory indices.
Downstream Migration Success of Atlantic Salmon Smolts in a River Catchment Highly Fragmented by Hydroelectric Impoundments
Authors: Rodger Jessica R. , Kaiser‐Wilks Phoebe , Beck Samantha V. , Ribbens Jamie C. H. , Lothian Angus J. , Adams Colin E.
Published: October 2024

Riverine habitat fragmentation by barriers, including impoundments, is common and their effects on obligate aquatic organisms are manifold. Organisms, such as Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), that make extensive river migrations are particularly vulnerable to the effects of impoundments. In this study, we use acoustic telemetry to examine the migratory behaviour of Atlantic salmon, as they migrate to sea for the first time as juvenile ‘smolts’, in a river with a series of dams that form a complex hydropower scheme. We demonstrate that overall migration success in the River Dee catchment and particularly through standing waters was remarkably high. We speculate that high migration success in standing waters could be due to relative current speeds providing good quality directional cues to migrants. Migration success past the two dams in this study, was relatively high, although the number of unsuccessful passage attempts before a successful passage was also very high. The vast majority of smolts passed the dams when the turbines were operational. At one dam, smolts did not use an available fish pass but migrated through the generating turbines. These findings provide several routes through which generation could be managed to enhance the success of downstream smolt migration in rivers where there are similar patterns of hydrogeneration in place.
Proteomic Profiling of Lymph Nodes Differentiates Classic Hodgkin Lymphoma With and Without Skeletal Involvement
Authors: Andersen Maja Dam , Wolter Katharina , Enemark Marie Beck Hairing , Pedersen Mette Abildgaard , Gormsen Lars Christian , Lauridsen Kristina Lystlund , Starklint Jørn , Hamilton‐Dutoit Stephen Jacques , d'Amore Francesco , Ludvigsen Maja , Honoré Bent , Kamper Peter
Published: October 2024

Classic Hodgkin lymphoma (CHL) is a highly curable disease, even in advanced stages. Controversy remains over whether bone involvement negatively affects overall and progression‐free survival in patients treated with intensive chemotherapy regimens. Whether cases that present with bone lesions harbor specific tumor microenvironmental features is unknown. We investigated protein expression in diagnostic lymph node biopsies from CHL patients with and without skeletal involvement at diagnosis to identify potential markers of skeletal disease. Protein expression patterns in diagnostic formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded lymphoma lymph node samples from CHL patients were analyzed by nano‐liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Patients were grouped according to skeletal involvement, which was defined as the presence of one or more FDG‐avid lesions on a diagnostic FDG‐PET/CT scan. Protein profiles identified patients with skeletal disease at diagnosis and showed disrupted cellular pathways, including immune system processes, cell adhesion, and cell growth/survival. Immunohistochemical evaluation also demonstrated differential expressions of angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE), intercellular adhesion molecule 3 (ICAM3), integrin alpha‐X (ITGAX), and calreticulin (CALR). In conclusion, proteomics identified altered protein expression profiles in lymph nodes among CHL cases presenting with disease disseminated to the skeletal system, which implies altered disease pathogenesis for these patients.
Anomalous recognition of flicker‐fused letters
Authors: Greene Ernest , Morrison Jack , Wang Wei
Published: October 2024

Flash sequences appear as steady emission of light if the frequency is above the flicker‐fusion threshold. One can display flicker‐fused letters against a background, and using the Talbot‐Plateau law, vary the average luminance of the letters to control degree of match to background luminance. We have previously reported that the visual system can identify letters that have an average luminance that equals background luminance, which can be described as an anomalous contrast discrimination. The present work confirms the earlier report, and provides additional evidence that the phenomenon is not based on a shift in luminance balance. We discuss the possible role of ON and OFF retinal channels in registering the anomalous contrast.
Purification and characterisation of a homogenised protein from Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) abomasum as a potential hyaluronidase inhibitor
Authors: Yang Zi , Wali Ahmidin , Arken Amina , Dongmulati Naziermu , Hu Ailin , Gao Yanhua , Yili Abulimiti , Aisa HajiAkber
Published: October 2024

To improve the utilisation of abomasum and explore the material basis of its antioxidant and hyaluronidase inhibitory activities, a homogeneous protein RDA4‐1 was isolated from the abomasum of cultured red deer by two‐step chromatography process for the first time in this study. It has a molecular weight of 15 kDa and comprises 43.56% essential amino acids. RDA4‐1 scavenged 50.97% of DPPH• and 88.37% of ABTS+· at 1.5 mg mL−1, and inhibited hyaluronidase by 79.23% at 1 mg mL−1. The CD and fluorescence spectroscopy was used to initiate explore the hyaluronidase inhibition reaction process. With an increase in the concentration of RDA4‐1 in the inhibition reaction, the wavelength of the negative peak of CD shifted from 208 to 218 nm, and the absorption of the positive peak of CD increased from 0.5 to 8.3 mdeg. Furthermore, fluorescence absorption at a wavelength of 340 nm rose from 248 to 762 au. These findings suggest that the interaction of RDA4‐1 with hyaluronidase induces alterations in the secondary structure of the protein complex, and RDA4‐1 binds reversibly to the enzyme in a non‐covalent manner. The results of this study indicate that RDA4‐1 could serve as a potential hyaluronidase inhibitor in the development of nutraceuticals.
Evaluating the multifaceted impact of Cephalaria extract on dough quality: Antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic properties
Authors: Bağdat Elif Şeyma , Bozkurt Fatih , Kahraman Ilıkkan Özge , Sagdic Osman , Törnük Fatih
Published: October 2024

Cephalaria syriaca, known as cephalaria, is an annual, pilose plant with pink‐purple flowers growing wild in wheat fields. Viscoelastic properties of gluten‐free doughs can be improved by adding cephalaria. However, this addition results in some undesirable properties in bread such as bitter taste and dark internal colour. This study aimed to reduce these effects by obtaining cephalaria obtained from distilled water and ethanol extracts and to increase the potential use of extracts in bread production. Different proportions of water and ethanol extracts obtained from oil‐free cephalaria were added to bread by creating a model with Mixture Design, and the optimum concentration was determined by farinograph trials. The antioxidative, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic effects of extract and the effect of cephalaria on yeast activity were examined. Cephalaria extracts had no measurable antimicrobial effect and no antifungal effect on Rhizopus stolonifer, while an antifungal effect was found against A. niger and P. expansum. The IC50 value was found to be 4.15 mg mL−1 for ethanol extract while the water extract had no effect on cells. The addition of extract had no negative effect on the number of yeasts in sourdough fermentation. The study has improved the usage of cephalaria by using water and ethanol extracts in dough.
The effect of downstream translocation on Atlantic salmon Salmo salar smolt outmigration success
Authors: Forrester Ruaidhri , Honkanen Hannele M. , Lilly Jessie , Green Amy , Rodger Jessica R. , Shields Brian A. , Ramsden Philip , Koene J. Peter , Fletcher Melanie , Bean Colin W. , Adams Colin E.
Published: October 2024

Trap and transport, the capture and subsequent translocation of fish during the freshwater phase of their migration, is becoming more common as a management intervention. Although the technique can be successful, it is costly and can have unintended effects on the fish being transported. This study investigates whether trap and transport can be used to increase the migration success of Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, smolts in naturally flowing rivers. Seaward‐migrating S. salar (n = 294) from two UK rivers were tracked using acoustic telemetric techniques. Outmigration success and timing were compared between non‐transported (released at the original in‐river capture site) and transported (released ca. 23 km downstream of the capture site) individuals. Downstream translocation increased the proportion of fish that successfully migrated to marine waters, and there was no indication that transport reduced post‐release survival. The post‐release migration speed of transported fish was slower than expected but this was likely a function of their advanced migration timing rather than an inhibition of their capacity to migrate. These results suggest that trap and transport can increase the outmigration success of S. salar smolts, but the earlier river exit dates of transported fish could negatively affect their survival at sea.
The development of the external genitals in female human embryos and foetuses. Part 1: Perineal thick skin, clitoris and labia
Authors: Hülsman Cindy J. M. , Gao Hui , Kruepunga Nutmethee , Mommen Greet M. C. , Köhler S. Eleonore , Hikspoors Jill P. J. M. , Lamers Wouter H.
Published: October 2024

Concomitant with the rupture of the cloacal membrane in the 6th week of development, the intermediate layer of the perineal‐skin epithelium thickens. We investigated its distribution and the development of the corresponding subcutaneous compartments in serial sections of female human embryos and foetuses and prepared 3D reconstructions to establish topographic relations. The thick‐skin area becomes restricted to the outlets of the genital and intestinal tracts. The clitoris and labia majora become identifiable at ~7 weeks. The mesenchymal mass inside the clitoris soon divides into the glans and the cavernous bodies. The clitoral hood forms between 10 and 14 weeks as a fold of tissue that extends from proximal to distal over the glans. Due to the caudal bending of the clitoral shaft, the labia majora gradually cover the clitoris after ~14 weeks. The labia minora form at ~8 weeks from the ridges of thick‐skin epithelium that flank the genital exit. They are continuous ventrolaterally with the clitoral hood and ventromedially with the apex of the cavernous body. Dorsally, their dense subcutaneous mesenchymal core extends to the anal canal. Between 8 and 14 weeks, the urethra lengthens axially, while the vaginal vestibule extends ventrally. In this period, the urethral plate of female embryos is mitotically active but does not increase in volume, which suggests that it contributes to vestibular growth. In conclusion, we observed a temporal correlation between the development of the thick‐skin epithelium and that of the external genitals, with a distribution that is reminiscent of the dihydrotestosterone‐sensitive skin.
Factors associated with breastfeeding rates at 1 month of age: Focusing on newborn feeding behaviours in a Japanese maternity hospital
Authors: Tomita Aya , Tahara‐Sasagawa Emi , Yonezawa Kaori , Usui Yuriko , Haruna Megumi
Published: October 2024

Aim

This study investigated the relationship between newborn feeding behaviour and feeding type among month‐old babies and explored maternal and neonatal factors associated with breastfeeding rates at 1 month of age.

Methods

This observational study was conducted in Japan with healthy mothers and full‐term newborns. Newborn feeding behaviours were assessed using the Japanese Infant Breastfeeding Assessment Tool (IBFAT) within approximately 1 day of birth. Obstetric and newborn characteristics, including newborn feeding behaviours, were investigated in relation feeding type (breast milk or mixed milk) at 1 month of age.

Results

This study included 176 mother–newborn pairs. IBFAT scores were significantly higher in the breast‐milk group (Median (M) = 10.5, Interquartile Ranges (IQR): 9.0–11.0) than in the mixed‐milk group (M = 10.0, IQR: 7.5–11.0) (P = 0.046). Additionally, the sucking pattern of breastfeeding was showing a greater distribution of higher scores in the breast‐milk group (M = 2.0, IQR: 2.0–2.5) than in the mixed‐milk group (M = 2.0, IQR: 1.5–2.5) (P = 0.015). Compared to mothers who received epidural analgesia or synthetic oxytocin, primiparas who did not receive them were more likely to breastfeed (epidural analgesia: (33.3% vs. 65.8%, P = 0.004); synthetic oxytocin: (42.0% vs. 78.6%, P = 0.018)). For multiparas, Apgar and IBFAT scores were associated with feeding type at 1 month of age.

Conclusions

This study found that newborns' effective and sustained sucking within 1 day of birth is an important factor for breastfeeding at 1 month of age. When assessing feeding type, maternal factors such as epidural analgesia should be the focus for primiparas, while neonatal factors such as feeding behaviour should be prioritised for multiparas.
Association between obesogenic environments and childhood overweight/obesity across the United States: Differences by rurality
Authors: Davis Kara , Abshire Demetrius A. , Monroe Courtney , Rudisill Caroline , Kaczynski Andrew T.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Childhood obesity is more prevalent in rural compared to urban communities and may be related to urban‐rural differences in environmental factors known to affect obesity. However, understanding of how environmental factors impact childhood obesity in rural settings remains limited. This study aimed to address this gap by exploring the relationship between obesogenic environments and childhood overweight/obesity rates, including variations across the urban‐rural continuum.

Methods

This study analyzed data for counties in the United States (N = 3140). Linear regression models were employed to examine the relationship between the Childhood Obesogenic Environment Index, which consisted of ten variables from a variety of sources associated with physical activity and healthy eating, and childhood overweight/obesity rates estimates derived from the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health. County rurality was categorized using Rural‐Urban Continuum Codes and a moderation analysis was conducted to identify potential variations by rurality.

Findings

There was a significant positive association between the COEI and childhood overweight/obesity rates nationally, with notable variations across the urban‐rural continuum for specific index components. Neighborhood walkability showed a significant positive association across rurality, indicating that childhood overweight/obesity rates were higher in less walkable communities. Full‐service restaurants exhibited an inverse relationship with childhood overweight/obesity rates across all RUCC levels.

Conclusions

These results underscore the obesogenic environmental factors associated with childhood overweight/obesity rates nationally and how they vary across the urban‐rural continuum. This study highlights the importance of considering these variations when designing interventions to address childhood obesity.
Using concept mapping to co‐create implementation strategies to address maternal–child food insecurity during the first 1000 days of life
Authors: Saragosa Amanda C. , Flatt Jason D. , Buccini Gabriela
Published: October 2024

Food insecurity (FI) has short‐ and long‐term effects on maternal and child health, with persistent inequities within under‐resourced communities of colour (e.g., Hispanic and Non‐Hispanic Black). Interventions to mitigate maternal–child FI must engage the voices of under‐resourced communities of colour to improve implementation and tackle socio‐ecological drivers of inequities, leading to positive maternal–child outcomes. This exploratory sequential mixed‐methods study aimed to co‐create implementation strategies to tailor a culturally sensitive intervention to address FI during the first 1000 days of life in under‐resourced communities of colour in Las Vegas. A Community Advisory Board (CAB) engaged in a two‐step participatory process. First, through the concept mapping, hierarchical cluster analysis organized 125 strategies into seven thematic areas: policy and advocacy, access to food and resources, built environment, education across systems, social and peer support, cultural congruency and trust, and wellness and mental health. Second, through consensus‐building, strategies were combined by similarity (n = 94) and excluded if unrelated to health and nutrition (n = 9). The CAB reached a consensus on 22 strategies classified across three socio‐ecological levels. Examples of strategies at the community level (n = 16) included increasing utilization of federal nutrition assistance programmes; at the service level (n = 4), integrating FI screenings and referral coordination systems across services; and at the individual level (n = 2), providing mentorship, education, and support for families and moms. The co‐creation of a culturally sensitive intervention to reduce inequities in maternal‐child FI during the first 1000 days of life requires multi‐level strategies across three socio‐ecological levels in under‐resourced communities of colour in Las Vegas.
A virulent milRNA inhibits host immunity by silencing a host receptor‐like kinase MaLYK3 and facilitates infection by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense
Authors: He Jiahui , Zhong Jiaqi , Jin Longqi , Long Yike , Situ Junjian , He Chengcheng , Kong Guanghui , Jiang Zide , Li Minhui
Published: October 2024

MicroRNA‐like RNAs (milRNAs) play a significant role in the infection process by plant‐pathogenic fungi. However, the specific functions and regulatory mechanisms of fungal milRNAs remain insufficiently elucidated. This study investigated the function of Foc‐milR138, an infection‐induced milRNA secreted by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc), which is the causal agent of Fusarium wilt of banana. Initially, through precursor gene knockout and phenotypic assessments, we confirmed that Foc‐milR138 acts as a virulent milRNA prominently upregulated during the early stages of Foc infection. Subsequent bioinformatic analyses and transient expression assays in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves identified a host receptor‐like kinase gene, MaLYK3, as the direct target of Foc‐milR138. Functional investigations of MaLYK3 revealed its pivotal role in triggering immune responses of N. benthamiana by upregulating a suite of resistance genes, bolstering reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and callose deposition, thereby fortifying disease resistance. This response was markedly subdued upon co‐expression with Foc‐milR138. Expression pattern analysis further verified the specific suppression of MaLYK3 by Foc‐milR138 during the early root infection by Foc. In conclusion, Foc secretes a virulent milRNA (Foc‐milR138) to enter the host banana cells and inhibit the expression of the plant surface receptor‐like kinase MaLYK3, subverting the disease resistance activated by MaLYK3, and ultimately facilitating pathogen invasion. These findings shed light on the roles of fungal milRNAs and their targets in resistance and pathogenicity, offering promising avenues for the development of disease‐resistant banana cultivars.
NELL‐1 membranous nephropathy due to mercury exposure from fairness cream: Report of two cases
Authors: Jawandhiya Pankaj , Gupta Ankur
Published: October 2024

Mercury contained in beauty‐enhancing cosmetics can cause chronic poisoning and membranous nephropathy (MN). We report two cases of nephrotic syndrome caused by MN with evidence of mercury poisoning due to the application of fairness cream in a short duration of a few months. The individuals were positive for neural epidermal growth factor‐like 1 [NELL‐1]. Discontinuation of the use of cosmetic products and modified Ponticelli regimen improved the nephrotic state in these individuals. We suggest that mercury poisoning should be considered in NELL‐1‐positive individuals with a history of application of beauty products.
Acylsugars, Nicotine and a Protease Inhibitor Provide Variable Protection for Nicotiana benthamiana in a Natural Setting
Authors: Negin Boaz , Wang Fumin , Fischer Hillary D. , Jander Georg
Published: October 2024

Plants produce an immense diversity of defensive specialized metabolites. However, despite extensive functional characterization, the relative importance of different defensive compounds is rarely examined in natural settings. Here, we compare the efficacy of three Nicotiana benthamiana defensive compounds, nicotine, acylsugars and a serine protease inhibitor, by growing plants with combinations of knockout mutations in a natural setting, quantifying invertebrate interactions and comparing relative plant performance. Among the three tested compounds, acylsugars had the greatest defensive capacity, affecting aphids, leafhoppers, spiders and flies. Nicotine mutants displayed increased leafhopper feeding and aphid colonization. Plants lacking both nicotine and acylsugars were more susceptible to flea beetles and thrips. By contrast, knockout of the serine protease inhibitor did not affect insect herbivory in the field. Complementary experiments under controlled laboratory conditions with caterpillars, grasshoppers and aphids confirmed results obtained in a natural setting. We conclude that the three metabolite groups collectively provide broad‐spectrum protection to N. benthamiana. However, there is a gradient in their effects on the interacting invertebrates present in the field. Furthermore, we demonstrate that, even if individual metabolites do not have a measurable defensive benefit on their own, they can have an additive effect when combined with other defensive compounds.
Evolutionary Conserved and Divergent Responses to Copper Zinc Superoxide Dismutase Inhibition in Plants
Authors: Frohn Stephanie , Haas Fabian B. , Chavez Benjamin G. , Dreyer Bernd H. , Reiss Erik V. , Ziplys Anne , Weichert Heiko , Hiltemann Saskia , Ugalde José M. , Meyer Andreas J. , D'Auria John C. , Rensing Stefan A. , Schippers Jos H. M.
Published: October 2024

After an initial evolution in a reducing environment, life got successively challenged by reactive oxygen species (ROS), especially during the great oxidation event (GOE) that followed the development of photosynthesis. Therefore, ROS are deeply intertwined into the physiological, morphological and transcriptional responses of most present‐day organisms. Copper‐zinc superoxide dismutases (CuZnSODs) evolved during the GOE and are present in charophytes and extant land plants, but nearly absent from chlorophytes. The chemical inhibitor of CuZnSOD, lung cancer screen 1 (LCS‐1), could greatly facilitate the study of SODs in diverse plants. Here, we determined the impact of chemical inhibition of plant CuZnSOD activity, on plant growth, transcription and metabolism. We followed a comparative approach by using different plant species, including Marchantia Polymorpha and Physcomitrium patens, representing bryophytes, the sister lineage to vascular plants, and Arabidopsis thaliana. We show that LCS‐1 causes oxidative stress in plants and that the inhibition of CuZnSODs provoked a similar core response that mainly impacted glutathione homoeostasis in all plant species analysed. That said, Physcomitrium and Arabidopsis, which contain multiple CuZnSOD isoforms showed a more complex and exacerbated response. In addition, an untargeted metabolomics approach revealed a specific metabolic signature for each plant species. Our comparative analysis exposes a conserved core response at the physiological and transcriptional level towards LCS‐1, while the metabolic response largely varies. These differences correlate with the number and localization of the CuZnSOD isoforms present in each species.
Bovine serum albumin inclusion in the thawing extender improves boar sperm membrane and acrosomal integrity
Authors: Álvarez‐Rodríguez Manuel , Nieto‐Cristobal Helena , de Mercado Eduardo
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the impact of bovine serum albumin (BSA) inclusion in the thawing extender on boar sperm quality. Thawing protocols in sperm cryopreservation are vital, yet underexplored. It has been determined that BSA can interact with membranes, stabilizing them and preventing damage during the freezing process, for this reason it could also have a beneficial effect during thawing. Our study explores modifications in the conventional Beltsville thawing solution, incorporating BSA at different concentrations (0.005, 0.01, 0.025 and 0.050 g/mL), and evaluating the sperm quality after up to 150 min post‐thawing incubation (37°C). All BSA concentrations preserved plasma membrane and acrosome integrity, relative to control (BSA absence). In addition, 0.025 g/mL BSA group preserves acrosome integrity over time without compromising motility or kinetic parameters. Our study suggests that BSA inclusion in thawing extenders should be considered as an additive for improving post‐thaw boar sperm quality.