bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obesity‐induced tissue alterations resist weight loss: A mechanistic review
Authors: Della Guardia Lucio , Shin Andrew C.
Published: May 2024

Interventions aimed at weight control often have limited effectiveness in combating obesity. This review explores how obesity‐induced dysfunction in white (WAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT), skeletal muscle, and the brain blunt weight loss, leading to retention of stored fat. In obesity, increased adrenergic stimulation and inflammation downregulate β‐adrenoreceptors and impair catecholaminergic signalling in adipocytes. This disrupts adrenergic‐mediated lipolysis, diminishing lipid oxidation in both white and brown adipocytes, lowering thermogenesis and blunting fat loss. Emerging evidence suggests that WAT fibrosis is associated with worse weight loss outcomes; indeed, limiting collagen and laminin‐α4 deposition mitigates WAT accumulation, enhances browning, and protects against high‐fat‐diet‐induced obesity. Obesity compromises mitochondrial oxidative capacity and lipid oxidation in skeletal muscle, impairing its ability to switch between glucose and lipid metabolism in response to varying nutrient levels and exercise. This dysfunctional phenotype in muscle is exacerbated in the presence of obesity‐associated sarcopenia. Additionally, obesity suppresses sarcolipin‐induced sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase (SERCA) activation, resulting in reduced oxidative capacity, diminished energy expenditure, and increased adiposity. In the hypothalamus, obesity and overnutrition impair insulin and leptin signalling. This blunts central satiety signals, favouring a shift in energy balance toward energy conservation and body fat retention. Moreover, both obese animals and humans demonstrate impaired dopaminergic signalling and diminished responses to nutrient intake in the striatum, which tend to persist after weight loss. This may result in enduring inclinations toward overeating and a sedentary lifestyle. Collectively, the tissue adaptations described pose significant challenges to effectively achieving and sustaining weight loss in obesity.
Multiple secondary contacts and historic hybridization between glacial lineages of charr (Salvelinus, Salmonidae) in northeastern Asia
Authors: Bondar Evgeniia I. , Oleinik Alla G. , Kukhlevsky Andrey D. , Skurikhina Lubov A. , Batishcheva Natalia M. , Kirillov Alexander F.
Published: May 2024

Arctic regions of northeastern Asia represent areas of secondary contact of the glacial phylogenetic lineages of charrs belonging to the genus Salvelinus (Salmoniformes: Salmonidae). However, the post‐glacial dispersion of charr across Arctic regions is poorly understood, as knowledge of populations from Chukotka and its neighbouring areas remains limited. Specifically, there is no clear understanding of which charr species inhabit significant regions of Chukotka from the sea coasts to the Kolyma drainage. In this study, we explored the affiliation of lacustrine charrs from the Chukotka area with (1) the Arctic lineage of Taranetz' charr (Salvelinus taranetzi); (2) the Bering lineage of Northern Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma malma) and (3) the Siberia and Atlantic lineages of Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus). We analysed sequence variation of the mitochondrial DNA control region (mtDNA CR; 960 base pairs) and genotyped seven microsatellite loci of nuclear DNA from charr collected at 13 sampling sites. We found different consequences of secondary contact: (1) complete fixation of introgressed mtDNA (mitochondrial capture) and (2) preservation of several mtDNA lineages with the absence of contemporary gene flow between resident populations. Combining the distribution patterns, phylogenetic network topology and knowledge of the glaciation history of the region, we propose two zones of secondary contact of the glacial lineages in Chukotka–Kolima‐Chukotka River system and Paleo‐Amguema River–from where charrs with introgressed genomes spread throughout this range. However, in some cases, the process of foreign mtDNA capture likely occurs in a more localised manner.
Enterprise violation risk deduction combining generative AI and event evolution graph
Authors: Zhong Chao , Li Pengjun , Wang Jinlong , Xiong Xiaoyun , Lv Zhihan , Zhou Xiaochen , Zhao Qixin
Published: May 2024

In the current realms of scientific research and commercial applications, the risk inference of regulatory violations by publicly listed enterprises has attracted considerable attention. However, there are some problems in the existing research on the deduction and prediction of violation risk of listed enterprises, such as the lack of analysis of the causal logic association between violation events, the low interpretability and effectiveness of the deduction and the lack of training data. To solve these problems, we propose a framework for enterprise violation risk deduction based on generative AI and event evolution graphs. First, the generative AI technology was used to generate a new text summary of the lengthy and complex enterprise violation announcement to realize a concise overview of the violation matters. Second, by fine‐tuning the generative AI model, an event entity and causality extraction framework based on automated data augmentation are proposed, and the UIE (Unified Structure Generation for Universal Information Extraction) event entity extraction model is used to create the event entity extraction for listed enterprises ‘violations. Then, a causality extraction model CDDP‐GAT (Event Causality Extraction Based on Chinese Dictionary and Dependency Parsing of GAT) is proposed. This model aims to identify and analyse the causal links between corporate breaches, thereby deepening the understanding of the event logic. Then, the merger of similar events was realized, and the causal correlation weights between enterprise violation‐related events were evaluated. Finally, the listed enterprise's violation risk event evolution graph was constructed, and the enterprise violation risk deduction was carried out to form an expert system of financial violations. The deduction results show that the method can effectively reveal signs of enterprise violations and adverse consequences.
Determining the most appropriate socioeconomic status indicator for describing inequalities in dental visits by Japanese older people
Authors: Morohoshi Hiroo , Matsuyama Yusuke , Zaitsu Takashi , Oshiro Akiko , Kondo Katsunori , Aida Jun
Published: May 2024

Objectives

This study examined the association between various socioeconomic status (SES) indicators and dental visits among older Japanese.

Background

When examining health inequalities, an adequate indicator of SES should be applied. In older adults, wealth and pensions are considered more appropriate indicators of SES than education and income, but few studies have examined.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used data from 12 391 individuals aged 65 years or older from the 2016 Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study (JAGES). The Slope Index of Inequality (SII) and the Relative Index of Inequality (RII) were applied to examine the association of education, income, wealth and pensions with dental visits for treatment and check‐up adjusting for covariates.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 74.0 ± 6.2 years. In the previous year, 56.3% of participants had visited a dentist for a check‐up, and 65.9% had visited for treatment. Inequalities in dental treatment visits were observed for wealth, pensions and income rather than education. Income was not significantly associated with check‐up visits. Wealth showed the largest association with dental visits for treatment [(SII 0.09, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.13), (RII 1.14, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.21)] and check‐up [(SII 0.08, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.12), (RII 1.16, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.23)].

Conclusion

When measuring inequalities in access to dental care among the older population, wealth and pensions could be important indicators of SES.
I am because I have to be: Exploring one mother‐worker's identity of the surrendered self through stories of mothering neurodiverse children
Authors: Owens‐Schill Angela , Peticca‐Harris Amanda , Elias Sara R. S. T. A. , deGama Nadia
Published: May 2024

Our qualitative study delves into the life history of a mother‐worker caring for two neurodiverse children, surfacing how the intensive mental load of balancing domestic and professional responsibilities permeates and shapes her identity. Employing narrative analysis and photovoice methods, we investigate how she navigates the logistical and emotional complexities in both roles across three distinct storytelling events: storying (mis)diagnoses, storying care needs and work negotiations, and storying coping. Our primary contribution lies in introducing the concept of the surrendered self, signaling the amplified and prolonged embodiment of one's provisional identity (mother) based on socio‐cultural expectations of who she thinks she ought to be, leading to the eclipse of other possible identities (woman, wife, worker).
Interventions in root‐filled teeth identified in general dental practice: A 6‐year longitudinal observational study
Authors: Olsson Sara , Jonsson Sjögren Jakob , Pigg Maria , Fransson Helena , Eliasson Alf ,   EndoReCo, Kvist Thomas
Published: May 2024

Aim

To investigate what happens to cross‐sectionally identified root‐filled teeth over a 6‐year period, regardless of the time that elapsed since primary root canal treatment, in a cohort of adult patients regularly attending a Public Dental Service. A secondary aim was to investigate how the cumulative events affecting root‐filled teeth over the same time were associated with variables obtained from a baseline examination.

Methodology

Adult patients with ≥1 previously root‐filled tooth and regularly attending the Public Dental Service in Örebro County were enrolled for study participation in 2015. General dental practitioners examined all identified root‐filled teeth in this cohort at baseline using a standardized protocol and were also responsible for further decision‐making and treatments. After six years, information on events of the root‐filled teeth was collected from dental records. The highest rating (most invasive treatment) on a 5‐point ordinal scale was used in the analyses. Regression analyses with stepwise selection were performed for associations between patient‐ and tooth‐related factors and events.

Results

A total of 445 patients with 1007 root‐filled teeth were followed the entire observation time. Twenty (2.0%) of the root‐filled teeth had endodontic retreatment and 150 (14.9%) were extracted over six years. Among teeth with periapical radiolucency or pain, the majority did not undergo retreatment or extraction; however, the multivariate analysis demonstrated that retreatment or extraction was associated with baseline recordings of teeth with periapical radiolucency (p < .0001), tenderness to percussion (p < .0001), and poor coronal restoration (p < .0001).

Conclusions

This study corroborates the notion that in general dentistry, root‐filled teeth with radiological signs of apical disease often remain untreated over time. Furthermore, it also reveals that root‐filled teeth presenting with mild pain do not necessarily receive any intervention. However, teeth with baseline signs of apical periodontitis, pain, or inadequate coronal restoration were more likely to have received intervention during the six‐year period.
Does global economic and climate policy uncertainty affect private investment? Evidence from sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Abdulai Mohammed Gbanja , Ustarz Yazidu , Dary Stanley Kojo
Published: May 2024

This study investigates how uncertainty in climate and global economic policies affects private investment in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA). Using panel data from 41 countries over the period 2000–2022, the study employs a dynamic panel model to estimate the effects of these two types of uncertainty on the private investment‐to‐gross domestic product ratio. The study finds that both global economic policy uncertainty (EPU) and climate policy uncertainty have a negative and significant influence on private investment, implying that higher levels of uncertainty discourage private investors from undertaking long‐term projects in the sub‐region. The study also finds that the effect of uncertainty on climate policy is stronger than that of EPU, suggesting that private investors are more sensitive to the lack of clarity and coherence in the global climate policy framework. The findings are robust to different estimation techniques. The study concludes that reducing policy uncertainty, especially in the area of climate change, is crucial for enhancing private investment and promoting sustainable development in SSA.
Charcot–Marie‐Tooth type 2A in vivo models: Current updates
Authors: Abati Elena , Rizzuti Mafalda , Anastasia Alessia , Comi Giacomo Pietro , Corti Stefania , Rizzo Federica
Published: May 2024

Charcot–Marie‐Tooth type 2A (CMT2A) is an inherited sensorimotor neuropathy associated with mutations within the Mitofusin 2 (MFN2) gene. These mutations impair normal mitochondrial functioning via different mechanisms, disturbing the equilibrium between mitochondrial fusion and fission, of mitophagy and mitochondrial axonal transport. Although CMT2A disease causes a significant disability, no resolutive treatment for CMT2A patients to date. In this context, reliable experimental models are essential to precisely dissect the molecular mechanisms of disease and to devise effective therapeutic strategies. The most commonly used models are either in vitro or in vivo, and among the latter murine models are by far the most versatile and popular. Here, we critically revised the most relevant literature focused on the experimental models, providing an update on the mammalian models of CMT2A developed to date. We highlighted the different phenotypic, histopathological and molecular characteristics, and their use in translational studies for bringing potential therapies from the bench to the bedside. In addition, we discussed limitations of these models and perspectives for future improvement.
When EU Agencies Set Up Advisory Committees: All About Autonomy?
Authors: Jevnaker Torbjørg
Published: May 2024

European Union (EU) agencies' relations with interest groups have received scarce research attention despite their relevance to bureaucratic autonomy and functioning. Such relations may be organised via advisory committees, which are durable organisational structures for regularised contact between an agency and those societal actors given membership by the agency. Advisory committees may be imposed by the legislator to control an agency or harnessed by the latter to build autonomy. The EU legislator leaves significant discretion to EU agencies regarding advisory committees. However, EU agencies' late emergence in already densely populated regulatory fields begs the question of whether the use of agency discretion is fully autonomous. A case in point is the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER), whose establishment and design of three European Stakeholder Committees are examined here. Advisory committees were needed by, but also imposed on, ACER, reflecting agency preferences to improve task performance as much as prior institutionalisation within the organisational field. Hence, factors beyond legal requirements can constrain agency discretion on how to organise the organisation of agency–interest group relations.
Effect of dietary vitamin E supplement on the reproductive performance and gene expression profiling in Ompok bimaculatus during breeding period
Authors: Mandal Sagar Chandra , Devi Ningthoujam Chaoba , Biswas Pradyut , Patel Arun Bhai , Sundaray Jitendra Kumar , Parhi Janmejay
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin E on the reproductive responses and the expression of reproductive genes in butter catfish (Ompok bimaculatus). Diets with different levels of vitamin E supplementation (0, 100, and 150 mg/kg) were provided to groups of fish for 60 days. After rearing for 60 days fish were induced with synthetic hormone, that is, Ovatide to study the breeding performance. Ovatide was administrated intramuscularly at the rate of 0.5 and 0.25 mL/kg of body weight for females and males, respectively, in all the treatments. Breeding performance result shows that supplements of vitamin E positively influenced the GSI%, fertilization rate, fecundity, and hatching rate. To understand the relationship between vitamin E and the breeding performance of the fish at the molecular level, a gene expression study was conducted. This study employed real‐time PCR for the selected genes critical for reproductive function. In the brain, testis, and ovary dietary vitamin E supplementation of 100 mg/kg significantly enhanced the mRNA transcription of FSHR, Brdt, ESR1, 17beta2, and LHR. Hence, it can be said that 100 mg/kg of vitamin E supplementation in the diet during the reproductive period of O. bimaculatus could improve breeding performance and the mRNA expression of reproductive hormone receptor genes in both males and females of O. bimaculatus.
Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) social calls in southern British Columbia
Authors: Molder Zoe A. , Halliday William D. , Reidy Rhonda , Kraemer Chloe N. , Juanes Francis
Published: May 2024

Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) nonsong vocalizations, or social calls, are much more poorly understood than humpback song. We examined humpback whale social calls from a foraging ground in southern British Columbia (BC) and developed a catalog for humpback social calls in BC. We tagged four humpback whales on the eastern edge of Swiftsure Bank, BC, in early September 2020, with a passive acoustic and movement tag. We manually classified 32 call types in our data set based on comparisons with published classifications of humpback social calls. Many of the calls identified in our data set had similar characteristics to calls from other locations. We also used two statistical classification methods, a cluster analysis and a random forest. The cluster analysis grouped 20 of these call types into four categories, and the random forest classifier was able to accurately classify all 20 call types 87.6% of the time. This study fills a geographical gap of humpback whale social calls on foraging grounds and is a first step towards categorizing the social calls of humpback whales in BC.
Third molar agenesis in individuals with supernumerary teeth
Authors: Friedli Luca , Henninger Eva , Makrygiannakis Miltiadis A , Zymperdikas Vasileios F , Papadopoulos Moschos A , Kanavakis Georgios , Gkantidis Nikolaos
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To explore the association between third molar agenesis and supernumerary tooth formation in a white‐European population.

Materials and Methods

A record review in various orthodontic clinics identified 380 eligible white‐European individuals, half of whom had non‐syndromic permanent supernumerary teeth (122 males and 68 females, totalling 244 supernumerary teeth; median age: 13.1, iqr: 1.5 years), and the other half were age‐ and sex‐matched controls with full dentition, excluding the third molars. Tooth sequences were identified in panoramic radiographs.

Results

In the supernumerary group, approximately 80% of the individuals had a single supernumerary tooth, followed by those having two additional teeth. In both groups, there was no sexual dimorphism in third molar agenesis severity. The prevalence of third molar agenesis in the supernumerary group was similar to that of the control group (28/190 = 14.7% in both groups; p = 1.0). In total, 53 third molars were missing in the supernumerary group (n = 190) compared to 67 in the control group (n = 190; p = .862). The ratio of bilateral to unilateral third molar agenesis was significantly lower in the supernumerary group than in the control group (1.0 vs. 3.7, respectively; p = .026).

Conclusion

The presence of supernumerary teeth did not significantly alter the likelihood of third molar agenesis or its severity. Bilateral third molar agenesis was considerably less prevalent in individuals with supernumerary teeth compared to controls. The present novel findings have important clinical and developmental implications.
Prevotella melaninogenica disrupted oral epithelial barrier function via myosin light chain kinase
Authors: Guo Yiting , Han Wenhao , He Yuan
Published: May 2024

Objective

Our previous studies have found that the composition ratio of Prevotella melaninogenica (Pm) on buccal mucosa surface of oral lichen planus (OLP) patients increased significantly compared with control. Furthermore, Pm could invade the epithelium of OLP patients. This study aimed to further explore the impact of Pm on oral keratinocytes.

Materials and Methods

The Pm–human oral keratinocyte (HOK) co‐culture model was established to detect monolayer permeability, zona occludens‐1 (ZO‐1) expression, and intracellular survival of Pm. We performed RNA‐seq followed by identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, with a particular focus on myosin light chain kinase (MLCK). An MLCK inhibitor ML‐7 was utilized in Pm‐HOK co‐culture model to assess its effects on monolayer permeability and ZO‐1 expression.

Results

HOK monolayer permeability was increased, and ZO‐1 expression was decreased after co‐culture (p < 0.05). Pm could survive in HOK cells. RNA‐seq revealed MLCK was an upregulated common DEG. The expression of MLCK in the Pm‐HOK co‐culture model was upregulated. Inhibition of MLCK rescued the increased epithelial permeability, and ZO‐1 expression was upregulated (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

MLCK may be involved in disrupting epithelial barrier function by Pm.
Exploring phosphorus starvation tolerance in aus (Oryza sativa L.) rice: An analysis of stress tolerance attributes and understanding the effect of PSTOL1 gene
Authors: Sar Puranjoy , Aiswarya Vilangapurathu S. , Basha Firos T. M. , Deo Rachna , Verma Bibhash Chandra , Bhaduri Debarati , Chakraborty Koushik , Ngangkham Umakanta , Banerjee Amrita , Kumar Jitendra , Mandal Nimai Prasad , Roy Somnath
Published: May 2024

The limited availability of Phosphorus (P) in the soil poses a significant challenge to of rice productivity in rainfed tropical regions. There has been a constant demand of diverse donors for enhancing tolerance to P‐deficient soils. In this study, we evaluated 181 aus rice accessions of the 3000 Rice Genome Project (3 K‐RGP) for grain yield and six other agronomical traits under control (~20 mg kg−1 available P) and low‐P (8–10 mg kg−1 available P) field trials. The objectives were to assess the level of low‐P tolerance in the aus germplasm and select stable high‐yielding accessions using stress tolerance attributes. We also surveyed the presence of PSTOL1 gene and Pup1 polymorphisms to find the effect of PSTOL1 as well as t Pup1 haplotypes on low‐P tolerance. Principal component analysis (PCA) using five stress tolerance attributes revealed that attributes like mean productivity (MP) and stress tolerance index (STI) are useful for selecting high‐yielding accessions with stable yield under stress and control conditions. Notably, accessions like Kalabokari, Devarasi, ARC 12021, Jasure Aus, ARC 7336 and ARC 12101 had higher level of tolerance than the check varieties Vandana and Sahbhagi Dhan. Majority of aus accessions carried the PSTOL1 gene (73%) and had the tolerant haplotype of Pup1 (65%) like the tolerant checks. Although, at large, the PSTOL1‐positive accessions were more vigorous, and high yielding under low‐P, there were a few PSTOL1‐negative aus accessions showing higher level of tolerance. The findings suggest that non‐PSTOL1 type tolerance exists in aus rice which needs to be substantiated through further studies.
Integrated physiological, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses reveal the mechanism of peanut kernel weight reduction under waterlogging stress
Authors: Zeng Ruier , Chen Tingting , Li Xi , Cao Jing , Li Jie , Xu Xueyu , Zhang Lei , Chen Yong
Published: May 2024

Waterlogging stress (WS) hinders kernel development and directly reduces peanut yield; however, the mechanism of kernel filling in response to WS remains unknown. The waterlogging‐sensitive variety Huayu 39 was subjected to WS for 3 days at 7 days after the gynophores touched the ground (DAG). We found that WS affected kernel filling at 14, 21, and 28 DAG. WS decreased the average filling rate and kernel dry weight, while transcriptome sequencing and widely targeted metabolomic analysis revealed that WS inhibited the gene expression in starch and sucrose metabolism, which reduced sucrose input and transformation ability. Additionally, genes related to ethylene and melatonin synthesis and the accumulation of tryptophan and methionine were upregulated in response to WS. WS upregulated the expression of the gene encoding tryptophan decarboxylase (AhTDC), and overexpression of AhTDC in Arabidopsis significantly reduced the seed length, width, and weight. Therefore, WS reduced the kernel‐filling rate, leading to a reduction in the 100‐kernel weight. This survey informs the development of measures that alleviate the negative impact of WS on peanut yield and quality and provides a basis for exploring high‐yield and high‐quality cultivation, molecular‐assisted breeding, and waterlogging prevention in peanut farming.
Genotypic spectrum of albinism in Mali
Authors: Diallo Modibo , Sylla Ousmane , Sidibé Mohamed Kole , Plaisant Claudio , Mercier Elina , Sequeira Angèle , Javerzat Sophie , Hadid Abdelaziz , Lasseaux Eulalie , Michaud Vincent , Arveiler Benoit
Published: May 2024

Albinism is a phenotypically and genetically heterogeneous condition characterized by a variable degree of hypopigmentation and by ocular features leading to reduced visual acuity. Whereas numerous genotypic studies have been conducted throughout the world, very little is known about the genotypic spectrum of albinism in Africa and especially in sub‐Saharan Western Africa. Here we report the analysis of all known albinism genes in a series a 23 patients originating from Mali. Four were diagnosed with OCA 1 (oculocutaneous albinism type 1), 17 with OCA 2, and two with OCA 4. OCA2 variant NM_000275.3:c.819_822delinsGGTC was most frequently encountered. Four novel variants were identified (two in TYR, two in OCA2). A deep intronic variant was found to alter splicing of the OCA2 RNA by inclusion of a pseudo exon. Of note, the OCA2 exon 7 deletion commonly found in eastern, central, and southern Africa was absent from this series. African patients with OCA 1 and OCA 4 had only been reported twice and once, respectively, in previous publications. This study constitutes the first report of the genotypic spectrum of albinism in a western sub‐Saharan country.
Apolipoprotein E Is Upregulated in Blood and Circulating Monocytes of Indian Patients With Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Kausar Gulafsha , Chauhan Shashi B. , Roy Ritirupa , Kumar Shashi , Engwerda Christian , Nylen Susanne , Kumar Rajiv , Wilson Mary E. , Sundar Shyam
Published: May 2024

Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) has been associated with several diseases including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's and multiple sclerosis. ApoE also has documented immunomodulatory functions. We investigated gene expression in circulating monocytes and in bone marrows of patients with visceral leishmaniasis (VL) living in an endemic area in Bihar, India, and contrasted these with control healthy subjects or other diagnostic bone marrows from individuals in the same region. Samples from VL patients were obtained prior to initiating treatment. Our study revealed significant upregulated expression of the apoE transcript in patients with VL. Furthermore, the levels of ApoE protein were elevated in serum samples of subjects with VL compared with healthy endemic controls. These observations may provide clues regarding the complex interactions between lipid metabolism and immunoregulation of infectious and inflammatory diseases.
Predictors of lung function in early adulthood: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Zhang Xian , Gray Andrew R. , Hancox Robert J.
Published: May 2024

Background and Objective

Lung function reaches a peak/plateau in early adulthood before declining with age. Lower early adult lung function may increase the risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in mid‐late adult life. Understanding the effects of multiple childhood/adolescent exposures and their potential interactions on plateau lung function would provide insights into the natural history of COPD.

Methods

Longitudinal spirometry data from 688 participants with complete data from a population‐based birth cohort (original n = 1037) were used to investigate associations between a wide range of childhood/adolescent exposures and repeated measures of FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC during the early‐adult plateau phase. Generalized estimating equations were used to accommodate the multiple timepoints per participant.

Results

FEV1 reached a peak/plateau between ages 18 and 26 and FVC from 21 to 32 years, whereas FEV1/FVC declined throughout early adulthood. Childhood asthma and airway hyperresponsiveness were associated with lower early adult FEV1 and FEV1/FVC. Smoking by age 18 was associated with lower FEV1/FVC. Higher BMI during early adulthood was associated with lower FEV1 and FVC and lower FEV1/FVC. Physical activity during adolescence was positively associated with FEV1 and FEV1/FVC but this was only statistically significant in men. There was no convincing evidence of interactions between exposures.

Conclusion

Childhood asthma and airway hyperresponsiveness are associated with lower lung function in early adulthood. Interventions targeting these may reduce the risk of COPD in mid‐late adult life. Promotion of physical activity during adolescence, prevention of cigarette smoking and maintenance of a healthy body weight in early adulthood are also priorities.
The effects of local economic development on female obesity (overweight) in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Afesorgbor Sylvanus Kwaku , Martey Edward , Aheto Justice Moses
Published: May 2024

Obesity (overweight) is a widespread concern not only in high‐income nations but also in low‐income countries across sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA). Although many studies attribute this trend to economic development triggering a shift in nutrition patterns within SSA, they tend overlook a critical factor: the level at which these determinants are measured. Assessing them nationally while drawing comparisons with individual‐level obesity data introduces a statistical challenge known as the ecological fallacy. To address this, we utilize local‐level night light data as a proxy for local economic development. Analyzing demographic and health surveys from 44 SSA countries spanning the period 1992–2019, we find that local development is associated with a 0.002% increase in the body mass index of women. In addition, we find that night light intensity is associated with 0.2%–0.3% increases in probabilities of a woman being overweight and obese. Our results remain robust when we employ an instrumental variable approach by using a control function based on peer effect. In terms of policy implication, our research highlights that local development may entail potential health costs, emphasizing the need for African governments to invest in healthcare and also build physical infrastructure that can promote active lifestyles.
Embodied collaborations: Using virtual reality and spatialized sound to share sensible experience
Authors: Montero Hugo
Published: May 2024

This article proposes to plunge into reactivated experience: a methodology designed to locate and use new paths of mediation to share an embodied and sensorial experiences and discourses. This way of doing collaborative research involves an immersive apparatus which produces images and sounds broadcasted through a virtual reality headset. It plays on the trouble created by these mediations and their in‐motion constitution in order to produce a reflexive discussion about mundane experiences. It is part of a broader research project about how inhabitants of Lyon and Madrid's districts endure heat waves in urban context.
Vivienda social, regeneración y sustentabilidad: hacia la ecorrehabilitación (eco-retrofit) de condominios habitacionales en altura en Chile
Authors: Blanco Juan Pablo
Published: May 2024

La evidencia internacional sostiene que es posible lograr importantes avances en materia de eficiencia energética en el stock edificado en cuanto a sus operaciones relacionadas con la calefacción, iluminación y tecnologías, las cuales pueden ser complementadas por cambios más radicales en la construcción. Este artículo de revisión presenta las oportunidades y los desafíos de la regeneración de condominios sociales (CCSS) en Chile para establecer una línea respecto al estado de estos conjuntos en términos de su potencial de rehabilitación (retrofit) con criterios de sustentabilidad, con base en métricas internacionales adaptadas para el caso chileno. Se concluye que es posible recuperar áreas críticas en ciudades latinoamericanas mediante una estrategia de intervención fundada en los principios de la rehabilitación ecológica (eco- retrofit), que permitiría modelar y cuantificar la contribución al desarrollo sustentable del proceso de rehabilitación integral de esta tipología que hoy evidencia un avanzado estado de deterioro y obsolescencia
CORTE SUPREMA DE JUSTICIA SALA DE CASACIÓN CIVIL, AGRARIA Y RURAL SC435-2024 RADICACIÓN: 11001-31-03-032-2021-00160-01 SENTENCIA DE 10 DE ABRIL DE 2024 MAGISTRADO PONENTE: LUIS ALONSO RICO PUERTA
Authors: Ibáñez Castañeda Miguel Andrés
Published: May 2024

La Sala de Casación Civil Agraria y Rural de la Corte Suprema de Justicia decide no casar la sentencia del Tribunal Superior del Distrito Judicial de Bogotá que confirmó el fracaso de las pretensiones declarativas de Allianz Seguros de Vida S.A. En el fallo de casación la Corporación realiza relevantes precisiones en torno a i). contrato de coaseguro, ii). «pacto de coaseguro interno» como contrato de colaboración empresarial, coligado al coaseguro, y iii). «coaseguro interno» como negocio jurídico autónomo.
Reticencia y falsedad en la declaración del riesgo. Buena fe, patología contractual y evolución jurisprudencial en Costa Rica
Authors: Garro Zúñiga Neftalí
Published: May 2024

Este artículo analiza la cuestión de la declaración del riesgo en el contrato de seguro y en particular los efectos de la declaración reticente o falsa, a la luz del ordenamiento jurídico costarricense. Busca esquematizar la normativa aplicable para que sea fácilmente aplicable por los operadores jurídicos. Analiza la jurisprudencia asociada a las normas relevantes de la Ley Reguladora del Contrato de Seguro en materia de declaraciones reticentes o falsas. Reseña la principal doctrina que puede extraerse de dicha jurisprudencia.
Tendencias del contrato de seguro en la contemporaneidad. Hacia la modernización de su régimen jurídico
Authors: La Casa García Rafael
Published: May 2024

El presente estudio tiene como propósito la realización de un esbozo general sobre las tendencias del contrato de seguro en la contemporaneidad. Para ello la exposición se ordenará en dos grandes bloques: de un lado, el relativo a las más importantes iniciativas legislativas materializadas, o solo meramente proyectadas, encaminadas a la modificación de la regulación del contrato de seguro en distintos ámbitos territoriales (Unión Europea y España); de otro, el referido a la incidencia que las nuevas circunstancias plantean sobre el contrato de seguro. Para procurar un adecuado tratamiento de ambas cuestiones nucleares, se procederá previamente a la enunciación del que constituye el principal criterio de política legislativa que informa la ordenación del contrato de seguro: la protección del asegurado.
Effect of Direct Aging Heat Treatment on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Laser Powder Bed Fused Maraging Steel 300-Grade Alloy
Authors: Subba Rao Bheemavarapu , Rao Thella Babu , Rama Karthik Mondi
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the effects of a 6-hour direct aging heat treatment at 490 °C on the mechanical, tribological, and microstructure characteristics of laser powder bed fused maraging 300 steels, which is produced at various laser energy densities. After direct aging heat treatment, the grain boundaries become irregular and vague due to the residual stress releasing, squeezing of precipitates into the grain boundaries, and phase transformations. The XRD analysis reveals the reverted austenite (γ′) phase forms during aging treatment due to the inevitable reversion of metastable martensite to the stable reverted γ′ phase. The heat-treated samples' microhardness rises with rising the laser energy density (LED) from 61.41 to 92.10 J/mm3 due to a decrease in the reversed austenite phase and a further rise in LED decreases the microhardness of heat-treated samples due to a rise in the reversed austenite phase after heat treatment. The heat-treated sample produced at LED of 92.10 J/mm3 shows maximum yield, ultimate tensile strengths, and minimum elongation percentage due to its high microhardness, and the fractography results show the failure mode as a mixed brittle and ductile fracture. The wear-rate of the heat-treated additively manufactured maraging 300 steel decreases as the LED increases from 61.41 to 92.1 J/mm3 and a further rise in LED from 92.10 J/mm3 to 166.66 J/mm3, the wear-rate increases. The wear-rate rises with a rise in sliding velocity from 1.5–3.5 m/s. The dominant wear mechanism was observed as abrasion with small grooves and saplings.
Criterion Validity of Commonly Used Sedentary Behavior Questionnaires to Measure Total Sedentary Time in Adults
Authors: Shivgulam Madeline E. , Kimmerly Derek S. , O’Brien Myles W.
Published: May 2024

Background: Self-report questionnaires are a fast and cost-efficient method to determine habitual sedentary time (sitting/lying time while awake), but their accuracy versus thigh-worn accelerometry (criterion), which can distinguish between sitting and standing postures, is unclear. While the validity of sedentary questionnaires has previously been evaluated, they have not been investigated simultaneously in the same sample population. We tested the hypothesis that common sedentary questionnaires underpredict habitual sedentary time compared with an objective, monitor-based assessment. Methods: Ninety-three participants (30 ± 18 years, 59 females) wore the activPAL inclinometer on the midthigh 24 hr per day for 6.9 ± 0.4 days and completed the SIT-Q, Sedentary Behavior Questionnaire (SBQ), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior Questionnaire (PASB-Q). Results: In comparison to the activPAL (9.9 ± 1.9 hr/day), the SIT-Q measured more time (12.9 ± 5.4 hr/day), but the SBQ (7.5 ± 3.3 hr/day), IPAQ (7.4 ± 3.0 hr/day), and PASB-Q (6.6 ± 3.0 hr/day) measured less time (all p < .001). The SIT-Q was positively and weakly correlated (ρ = .230 [95% confidence interval: .020, .422], p = .028) with the activPAL, but the SBQ, IPAQ, and PASB-Q were not (all ps > .760). Equivalence testing demonstrated poor equivalence for the SIT-Q (±40%), SBQ (±31%), IPAQ (±36%), and PASB-Q (±29%). The SIT-Q (β = −1.36), SBQ (β = −0.97), and IPAQ (β = −0.78) exhibited a negative proportional bias (all ps < .002). Conclusions: In summary, the SIT-Q, SBQ, IPAQ, and PASB-Q demonstrated poor validity. Researchers and health promoters should be cautious when implementing these self-report sedentary time questionnaires, as they may not reflect the true sedentary activity and negatively impact study results.
Scalable decarboxylative trifluoromethylation by ion-shielding heterogeneous photoelectrocatalysis
Authors: Chen Yixin , He Yuchen , Gao Yong , Xue Jiakun , Qu Wei , Xuan Jun , Mo Yiming
Published: May 2024

Electrochemistry offers a sustainable synthesis route to value-added fine chemicals but is often constrained by competing electron transfer between the electrode and redox-sensitive functionalities distinct from the target site. Here, we describe an ion-shielding heterogeneous photoelectrocatalysis strategy to impose mass-transfer limitations that invert the thermodynamically determined order of electron transfer. This strategy is showcased to enable decarboxylative trifluoromethylation of sensitive (hetero)arenes by using trifluoroacetate, an inexpensive yet relatively inert trifluoromethyl group (CF
3
) source. An ion-shielding layer, formed by trifluoroacetate anions electrostatically adsorbed on a positive molybdenum-doped tungsten trioxide (WO
3
) photoanode, prevents undesired electron transfer between substrates and photogenerated holes. The practicality of the developed method was demonstrated with robust photoanode stability (approximately 380 hours), a good substrate scope, and scaling capability to achieve 100-gram synthesis by using photoelectrochemical flow cells.
Allen Joseph Bard (1933–2024)
Authors: Faulkner Larry R.
Published: May 2024

Father of contemporary electrochemistry
Topological phononics is cataloged
Authors: Narang Prineha , Arora Arpit
Published: May 2024

A screening approach identifies promising materials for future exploration
Prescription for controversy
Authors: Joelving Frederik ,   Retraction Watch
Published: May 2024

Firms offering a fast track to publication target foreign applicants to U.S. medical residency programs
Virus gone wild
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: May 2024

An ambitious U.S. project aims to sample more than 50 animal species to clarify how the COVID-19 virus moves between people and wildlife
In Science Journals
Authors: Maroso Mattia , Smith Keith T. , Stajic Jelena , Smith H. Jesse , Yeston Jake S. , Ash Caroline , Shilatifard Ali , Charneski Catherine , Nusinovich Yevgeniya , Szuromi Phil , Vignieri Sacha , Ferrarelli Leslie K. , Olingy Claire
Published: May 2024

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
Psychometric analysis of the modified COVID-19 Yorkshire Rehabilitation Scale (C19-YRSm) in a prospective multicentre study
Authors: Smith Adam , Greenwood Darren , Horton Mike , Osborne Thomas , Goodwin Madeline , Lawrence Román Rocha , Winch Darren , Williams Paul , Milne Ruairidh ,   the LOCOMOTION consortium, Sivan Manoj
Published: May 2024

Background

Long COVID (LC) is a novel multisystem clinical syndrome affecting millions of individuals worldwide. The modified COVID-19 Yorkshire Rehabilitation Scale (C19-YRSm) is a condition-specific patient-reported outcome measure designed for assessment and monitoring of people with LC.

Objectives

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the C19-YRSm in a prospective sample of people with LC.

Methods

1314 patients attending 10 UK specialist LC clinics completed C19-YRSm and EuroQol 5D-5L (EQ-5D-5L) longitudinally. Scale characteristics were derived for C19-YRSm subscales (Symptom Severity (SS), Functional Disability (FD) and Overall Health (OH)) and internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha). Convergent validity was assessed using the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT)—Fatigue Scale. Known groups validity was assessed for the Other Symptoms subscale as tertiles, as well as by hospitalisation and intensive care admission. Responsiveness and test–retest reliability was evaluated for C19-YRSm subscales and EQ-5D-5L. The minimal important difference (MID) and minimal clinically important difference (MCID) were estimated. Confirmatory factor analysis was applied to determine the instrument’s two-factor structure.

Results

C19-YRSm demonstrated good scale characteristic properties. Item-total correlations were between 0.37 and 0.65 (for SS and FD), with good internal reliability (Cronbach’s alphas>0.8). Item correlations between subscales ranged between 0.46 and 0.72. Convergent validity with FACIT was good (−0.46 to −0.62). The three subscales discriminated between different levels of symptom burden (p<0.001) and between patients admitted to hospital and intensive care. There was moderate responsiveness for the three subscales ranging from 0.22 (OH) to 0.50 (SS) which was greater than for the EQ-5D-5L. Test–retest reliability was good for both SS 0.86 and FD 0.78. MID was 2 for SS, 2 for FD and 1 for OH; MCID was 4 for both the SS and FD. The factor analysis supported the two-factor SS and FD structure.

Conclusions

The C19-YRSm is a condition-specific, reliable, valid and responsive patient-reported outcome measure for LC.
Financial barriers and facilitators to secure firearm and medication storage among veterans with elevated suicide risk: a qualitative study
Authors: Khazanov Gabriela , Spitzer Elizabeth , Thomas Suzanne , Brenner Lisa A , Simonetti Joseph A
Published: May 2024

Objective

To explore financial barriers and facilitators to promoting secure firearm and medication storage among patients at risk for suicide.

Methods

Veterans seeking care in Veterans Affairs emergency care settings (N=28) participated in qualitative interviews on barriers and facilitators to adopting secure firearm and medication storage behaviours. Thematic analysis with inductive and iterative coding was used to identify themes pertaining to financial barriers and facilitators. Interviews were double-coded for reliability.

Results

We identified four themes—two related to financial barriers and two to financial facilitators. Barrier-related themes included: (1) the high cost of firearms and medications made owners less likely to dispose of medications, relinquish ownership of firearms or pursue out-of-home storage for firearms; (2) the high cost of out-of-home storage and preferred locking devices were barriers to secure storage. Facilitator-related themes included: (1) no-cost services or locking devices may help motivate secure firearm and medication storage and (2) preferences varied for no-cost locking devices versus coupons for devices.

Conclusions

Addressing financial barriers and leveraging financial facilitators may motivate secure storage of lethal means, which could enhance suicide prevention efforts.
Multiple polygenic risk scores can improve the prediction of systemic lupus erythematosus in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Yu-Chia , Liu Ting-Yuan , Lu Hsing-Fang , Huang Chung-Ming , Liao Chi-Chou , Tsai Fuu-Jen
Published: May 2024

Objective

To identify new genetic variants associated with SLE in Taiwan and establish polygenic risk score (PRS) models to improve the early diagnostic accuracy of SLE.

Methods

The study enrolled 2429 patients with SLE and 48 580 controls from China Medical University Hospital in Taiwan. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) and PRS analyses of SLE and other three SLE markers, namely ANA, anti-double-stranded DNA antibody (dsDNA) and anti-Smith antibody (Sm), were conducted.

Results

Genetic variants associated with SLE were identified through GWAS. Some novel genes, which have been previously reported, such asRCC1LandEGLN3, were revealed to be associated with SLE in Taiwan. Multiple PRS models were established, and optimal cut-off points for each PRS were determined using the Youden Index. Combining the PRSs for SLE, ANA, dsDNA and Sm yielded an area under the curve of 0.64 for the optimal cut-off points. An analysis of human leucocyte antigen (HLA) haplotypes in SLE indicated that individuals with HLA-DQA1*01:01 and HLA-DQB1*05:01 were at a higher risk of being classified into the SLE group.

Conclusions

The use of PRSs to predict SLE enables the identification of high-risk patients before abnormal laboratory data were obtained or symptoms were manifested. Our findings underscore the potential of using PRSs and GWAS in identifying SLE markers, offering promise for early diagnosis and prediction of SLE.