bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid small-scale nanobody-assisted purification of ryanodine receptors for cryo-EM
Authors: Li Chenyao , Willegems Katrien , Uchański Tomasz , Pardon Els , Steyaert Jan , Efremov Rouslan G.
Published: April 2024

Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) are large Ca2+release channels residing in the endoplasmic or sarcoplasmic reticulum membrane. Three isoforms of RyRs were identified in mammals, disfunction of which was associated with a series of life-threatening diseases. Advances in structural studies of RyRs are limited by the need for large amounts of native tissue or eukaryotic cell cultures. Here, we report a method that utilizes nanobodies to purify RyRs from only 5 mg of total protein. The purification starting from isolated membranes to cryo-EM grade protein is completed within four hours on the bench and produces protein usable for cryo-EM as we show by solving the structures of rabbit RyR1 and bovine and mouse RyR2 solubilized in detergent, reconstituted into lipid nanodiscs or liposomes. The reported method facilitates structural studies of RyRs directed toward drug development and is useful in the cases where the amount of starting material is limited.
Layer Hall counterflow as a model probe of magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene
Authors: Zhu Jihang , Zhai Dawei , Xiao Cong , Yao Wang
Published: April 2024

The recent constructions of flat moiré minibands in specifically twisted multilayer graphene and twisted transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have facilitated the observation of strong correlations with convenient tunability. These correlations in flat bands result in band dispersion heavily influenced by carrier densities, leading to filling-dependent quasiparticle band renormalizations. Particularly, in magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene (MATBG), the band structure—including the quasiparticle energy and wave function—is crucial in understanding the correlated properties. Previous theoretical studies have demonstrated the presence of a time-reversal-even charge Hall counterflow in response to a direct current (DC) electric field in twisted bilayers as chiral structures. In this study, we show that such layer Hall counterflow can serve as a sensitive probe for MATBG model parameters, which are currently ambiguous as a result of unavoidable structural relaxation and twist-angle disorder. We present the layer Hall counterflow and the associated in-plane magnetization for three different MATBG continuum models, based on which many-body interacting models have been widely applied to study strong correlations in MATBG. At the single-particle level, our findings indicate notable differences in layer-projected Hall conductivity, both in magnitude and sign, between different MATBG continuum models. Furthermore, our self-consistent Hartree calculations, performed on each of these single-particle continuum models, reveal renormalized layer-projected Hall conductivity by the self-consistent Hartree field.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
A novel method for estimation of electrode kinetics parameters
Authors: Wang Yongjing , Liu Yingwei
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extract electrochemical reaction kinetics parameters, such as Tafel slope, exchange current density and equilibrium potential, which cannot be directly measured, this study aims to propose an improved particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm.

Design/methodology/approach

In traditional PSO algorithms, each particle’s historical optimal solution is compared with the global optimal solution in each iteration step, and the optimal solution is replaced with a certain probability to achieve the goal of jumping out of the local optimum. However, this will to some extent undermine the (true) optimal solution. In view of this, this study has improved the traditional algorithm: at each iteration of each particle, the historical optimal solution is not compared with the global optimal solution. Instead, after all particles have iterated, the optimal solution is selected and compared with the global optimal solution and then the optimal solution is replaced with a certain probability. This to some extent protects the global optimal solution.

Findings

The polarization curve plotted by this equation is in good agreement with the experimental values, which demonstrates the reliability of this algorithm and provides a new method for measuring electrochemical parameters.

Originality/value

This study has improved the traditional method, which has high accuracy and can provide great support for corrosion research.
Dynamic assessment of the abatement effects of the low-carbon practices in the prefabricated building supply chain
Authors: Du Qiang , Zhang Yerong , Zeng Lingyuan , Ma Yiming , Li Shasha
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Prefabricated buildings (PBs) have proven to effectively mitigate carbon emissions in the construction industry. Existing studies have analyzed the environmental performance of PBs considering the shift in construction methods, ignoring the emissions abatement effects of the low-carbon practices adopted by participants in the prefabricated building supply chain (PBSC). Thus, it is challenging to exploit the environmental advantages of PBs. To further reveal the carbon reduction potential of PBs and assist participants in making low-carbon practice strategy decisions, this paper constructs a system dynamics (SD) model to explore the performance of PBSC in low-carbon practices.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts the SD approach to integrate the complex dynamic relationship between variables and explicitly considers the environmental and economic impacts of PBSC to explore the carbon emission reduction effects of low-carbon practices by enterprises under environmental policies from the supply chain perspective.

Findings

Results show that with the advance of prefabrication level, the carbon emissions from production and transportation processes increase, and the total carbon emissions of PBSC show an upward trend. Low-carbon practices of rational transportation route planning and carbon-reduction energy investment can effectively reduce carbon emissions with negative economic impacts on transportation enterprises. The application of sustainable materials in low-carbon practices is both economically and environmentally friendly. In addition, carbon tax does not always promote the implementation of low-carbon practices, and the improvement of enterprises' environmental awareness can further strengthen the effect of low-carbon practices.

Originality/value

This study dynamically assesses the carbon reduction effects of low-carbon practices in PBSC, informing the low-carbon decision-making of participants in building construction projects and guiding the government to formulate environmental policies.
Ideals versus realities of learning poverty and human rights
Authors: Glenn Liyana Eliza , Hardaker Glenn
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper will identify and further explore the ideals versus realities of learning poverty and the consequential effects on our moral obligations and responsibilities. The wealthy nations are now under further pressure to recognise and realise their moral obligations to enabling social justice in the context of access, and distribution, of vaccines for the poorer nations. Learning poverty has always been a feature of our global economic, and institutional order, and has become an increasingly important factor in achieving justice.

Design/methodology/approach

The study focusses on a human rights approach to learning poverty and the ideals versus the realities of what we are beginning to see in the times of a global pandemic. The major challenges to justice is inherent to the recognition that wealthy nations continue to have a pivotal role in the reduction of poverty. The identified major challenges in the context of learning poverty are: “nation states and the global pandemic”, “international interactions and learning poverty” and “global institutions and learning inequalities”. In particular, the authors explore the concept of ideals versus realities through three “challenges”, which continues to challenge any semblance of justice in the current global vaccine distribution. Nation states and borders, international interactions and global institutions remain barriers in overcoming what is becoming a reality of learning poverty.

Findings

This paper seeks to look beyond the economics of vaccine trade and seek a way to accept a moral claim of justice for all. The authors consider how wealthy nations are active participants in the emergence of learning poverty for many nations.

Originality/value

By exploring the ideals versus realities of learning poverty, and human rights, the authors highlight some of the challenges, and wealthy nations moral obligations, through the emergence of a new dimensional indicator of poverty, learning poverty.
Ethical forethoughts on the use of artificial intelligence in medicine
Authors: ElHassan Bassem T. , Arabi Alya A.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to illuminate the ethical concerns associated with the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the medical sector and to provide solutions that allow deriving maximum benefits from this technology without compromising ethical principles.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of AI in medicine, exploring its technical capabilities, practical applications, and ethical implications. Based on our expertise, we offer insights from both technical and practical perspectives.

Findings

The study identifies several advantages of AI in medicine, including its ability to improve diagnostic accuracy, enhance surgical outcomes, and optimize healthcare delivery. However, there are pending ethical issues such as algorithmic bias, lack of transparency, data privacy issues, and the potential for AI to deskill healthcare professionals and erode humanistic values in patient care. Therefore, it is important to address these issues as promptly as possible to make sure that we benefit from the AI’s implementation without causing any serious drawbacks.

Originality/value

This paper gains its value from the combined practical experience of Professor Elhassan gained through his practice at top hospitals worldwide, and the theoretical expertise of Dr. Arabi acquired from international institutes. The shared experiences of the authors provide valuable insights that are beneficial for raising awareness and guiding action in addressing the ethical concerns associated with the integration of artificial intelligence in medicine.
Student voice and participatory self-governance at a German democratic free school: a content analysis
Authors: Morrison Kristan Accles
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to illustrate, by means of a content analysis of 278 weekly School Meeting minutes, the ways in which student voice is actualized in one democratic free school in Germany.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a qualitative content analysis methodology of 278 weekly School Meetings minutes.

Findings

This paper uses Fielding’s (2012) patterns of partnership typology to illustrate what counts as student voice and participation in a democratic free school.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations included being reliant on translations of German texts, some missing minutes from the entire set, the lack of a single author for the minutes (and thus degree of detail differs) and the fact that the School Meeting minutes make reference to other meetings for various sub-committees for which no minutes exist, and thus, findings on the degree of student voice may be limited. And because this is a study of one school, generalizability may be difficult. Future research into these sub-committee meetings would prove helpful as well as content analyses of other democratic free schools’ meeting minutes.

Originality/value

This study can help people more deeply understand what goes on in democratic free schools and what student voice and participation can mean within this context.
Climate change and corporate culture of innovation: evidence from earnings conference calls
Authors: Ongsakul Viput , Chintrakarn Pandej , Jiraporn Pornsit , Chatjuthamard Pattanaporn
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Exploiting novel measures of climate change exposure and corporate culture generated by a powerful textual analysis of earnings conference calls, this study aims to explore the effect of firm-specific climate change exposure on corporate innovation through the lens of corporate culture.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply the standard regression analysis as well as a variety of sophisticated techniques, namely, propensity score matching, entropy balancing and an instrumental-variable analysis with multiple alternative instruments.

Findings

The authors find that more exposure to climate change risk results in more innovation, as indicated by a significantly stronger culture of innovation. The findings are consistent with the notion that firms more exposed to climate change risk are pressed to be more innovative to adapt to the numerous changes caused by climate change. Finally, the authors also find that the effect of firm-level exposure on innovation is considerably less pronounced during uncertain times.

Originality/value

The authors are among the first studies to take advantage of a novel measure of firm-specific exposure to climate change and investigate how climate change exposure influences an innovative culture. Since climate change is a timely issue, the findings offer important implication to several stakeholders, such as shareholders, executives and investors in general.
Uterine contractile activity and neonatal outcome – A blind analysis of a randomized controlled trial cohort
Authors: Juhantalo Milla , Hautakangas Tuija , Palomäki Outi , Uotila Jukka
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Sufficient contractions are necessary for a successful delivery but each contraction temporarily constricts the oxygenated blood flow to the fetus. Individual fetal or placental characteristics determine how the fetus can withstand this temporary low oxygen saturation. However, only a few studies have examined the impact of uterine activity on neonatal outcome and even less attention has been paid to parturients’ individual characteristics. Our objective was therefore to find out whether fetuses compromised by maternal or intrapartum risk factors are more vulnerable to excessive uterine activity.

Material and methods

Uterine contractile activity was assessed by intrauterine pressure catheters. Women (n = 625) with term singleton pregnancies and fetus in cephalic presentation were included in this secondary, blind analysis of a randomized controlled trial cohort. Intrauterine pressure as Montevideo units (MVU), contraction frequency/10 min and uterine baseline tone were calculated for 4 h prior to birth or the decision to perform cesarean section. Uterine activity in relation to umbilical artery pH linearly or ≤7.10 was used as the primary outcome. Need for operative delivery (either cesarean section or vacuum‐assisted delivery) due to fetal distress was analyzed as a secondary outcome. In addition, belonging to vulnerable subgroups with, for example, chorioamnionitis, hypertensive or diabetic disorders, maternal smoking or neonatal birthweight <10th percentile were investigated as additional risk factors.

Results

A linear decline in umbilical artery pH was seen with increasing intrauterine pressure in all deliveries (p < 0.001). Among parturients with suspected chorioamnionitis, every increasing 10 MVUs increased the likelihood of umbilical artery pH ≤7.10 (odds ratio [OR] 1.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–1.34, p = 0.023). The need for operative delivery due to fetal distress was increased among all laboring women by every increasing 10 MVUs (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01–1.09, p = 0.015). This association with operative deliveries was further increased among parturients with hypertensive disorders (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.05–1.43, p = 0.009) and among those with diabetic disorders (OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.04–1.28, p = 0.003).

Conclusions

Increasing intrauterine pressure impairs umbilical artery pH especially among parturients with suspected chorioamnionitis. Fetuses in pregnancies affected by chorioamnionitis, hypertensive or diabetic disorders are more vulnerable to high intrauterine pressure.
Continuous flow local anesthetic wound infusion for post‐operative analgesia following kidney transplantation
Authors: Thakker Parth U. , Temple Davis M. , Minnick Caroline , Ponzi Dominick , Badlani Gopal , Hemal Ashok , Doares William , Webb Christopher , McCracken Emily , Orlando Giuseppe , Jay Colleen , Farney Alan , Stratta Robert J.
Published: April 2024

Background

Some patients with end stage renal disease are or will become narcotic‐dependent. Chronic narcotic use is associated with increased graft loss and mortality following kidney transplantation. We aimed to compare the efficacy of continuous flow local anesthetic wound infusion pumps (CFLAP) with patient controlled analgesia pumps (PCA) in reducing inpatient narcotic consumption in patients undergoing kidney transplantation.

Materials and Methods

In this single‐center, retrospective analysis of patients undergoing kidney transplantation, we collected demographic and operative data, peri‐operative outcomes, complications, and inpatient oral morphine milligram equivalent (OME) consumption.

Results

Four hundred and ninety‐eight patients underwent kidney transplantation from 2020 to 2022. 296 (59%) historical control patients received a PCA for postoperative pain control and the next 202 (41%) patients received a CFLAP. Median age [53.5 vs. 56.0 years, p = .08] and BMI [29.5 vs. 28.9 kg/m2, p = .17] were similar. Total OME requirement was lower in the CFLAP group [2.5 vs. 34 mg, p < .001]. Wound‐related complications were higher in the CFLAP group [5.9% vs. 2.7%, p = .03]. Two (.9%) patients in the CFLAP group experienced cardiac arrhythmia due to local anesthetic toxicity and required lipid infusion.

Conclusions

Compared to PCA, CFLAP provided a 93% reduction in OME consumption with a small increase in the wound‐related complication rate. The utility of local anesthetic pumps may also be applicable to patients undergoing any unilateral abdominal or pelvic incision.
A heart transplant center experience with basiliximab induction strategies: A double edged sword?
Authors: Holzhauser Luise , Norris Maxwell , Molina Maria , Chambers Susan , Sundaravel Swethika , Rashed Eman , Gala Ketan , Fallah Tara , Bittermann Therese , Reza Nosheen , Wang Teresa , Atluri Pavan , Goldberg Lee , McLean Rhondalyn , Peyster Eliot
Published: April 2024

Background

The use of induction immunosuppression for heart transplantation (HT) is debated given the uncertain benefit and potential risks of infection and malignancy.

Methods

This is a retrospective single‐center analysis of 475 consecutive HT recipients from 2003 to 2020 grouped by use of induction with basiliximab group (BG) and the no basiliximab group (NBG). Subgroup analysis by era compared pre‐2016 standard‐basiliximab (BX) induction and 2016–2020 with selective‐BX use as part of a calcineurin‐inhibitor‐sparing regimen.

Results

When adjusted for confounders (sex, age, PRA, eGFR), the BG was less likely to have acute cellular rejection (ACR) (OR.42, p < .001), but had more antibody mediated rejection (AMR) (OR 11.7, p < .001) and more cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) (OR 3.8, p = .04). There was no difference between BG and NBG in the incidence of malignancies or infections. When stratified by era (pre‐2016 vs. 2016–2020), ACR remained less common in the BG than the NBG (36% vs. 50%, p = .045) groups, while AMR remained more common (9.7 vs. 0% p = .005). There was no significant difference in conditional survival comparing pre‐and post‐2016 NBG (HR 2.20 (95% CI.75–6.43); however, both pre‐2016 BG and post‐2016 BG have significantly higher mortality (HR 2.37 [95% CI 1.02–5.50) and HR 2.69 (95% CI 1.08–6.71), p = .045 and.03, respectively].

Conclusion

Basiliximab reduces the incidence of ACR but increases the risk of AMR, CAV, and may be associated with increased mortality. Mechanistic studies are needed to describe a potential T‐cell‐escape mechanism with enhanced humoral immunity.
Healthy Outcomes through Peer Educators: Feasibility of a peer support diabetes prevention programme for African‐American grandmother caregivers
Authors: Vivian Eva M. , Chewning Betty A. , Voils Corrine I. , Brown Roger L.
Published: April 2024

Aim

To assess the protocol feasibility and intervention acceptability of a community‐based, peer support diabetes prevention programme (DPP) for African‐American (AA) grandmother caregivers at risk for diabetes.

Materials and Methods

Grandmother caregivers were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to DPP (active comparator) or DPP plus HOPE (Healthy Outcomes through Peer Educators; intervention). DPP + HOPE incorporated support from a peer educator who met with participants in person or by telephone every week during the 1‐year intervention. Outcomes included: (1) recruitment rates, outcome assessment, and participation adherence rates assessed quantitatively; and (2) acceptability of the programme assessed through end‐of‐programme focus groups.

Results

We successfully consented and enrolled 78% (n = 35) of the 45 AA grandmothers screened for eligibility. Eighty percent of participants (aged 64.4 ± 5.7 years) were retained up to Week 48 (74% for DPP [n = 17] and 92% for DPP + HOPE [n = 11]). All grandmothers identified social support, neighbourhood safety, and access to grocery stores as influences on their health behaviours. At Month 12, the active comparator (DPP) group and the intervention group (DPP + HOPE) had a mean change in body weight from baseline of −3.5 ± 5.5 (−0.68, −6.29) kg and − 4.4 ± 5.7 (−0.59, −8.2) kg, respectively.

Conclusions

This viable study met the aim of educating and equipping AA grandmothers with the practical and sustained support needed to work toward better health for themselves and their grandchildren, who may be at risk for diabetes. The intervention was both feasible and acceptable to participating grandmothers and their organizations.
Objective movement asymmetry in horses is comparable between markerless technology and sensor‐based systems
Authors: Kallerud Anne S. , Marques‐Smith Patrick , Bendiksen Helle K. , Fjordbakk Cathrine T.
Published: April 2024

Background

A markerless artificial intelligence (AI) system for lameness detection has recently become available but has not been extensively compared with commonly used inertial measurement unit (IMU) systems for detecting asymmetry under field conditions.

Objective

Comparison of classification of asymmetric limbs under field conditions and comparison of normalised asymmetry data using a markerless AI system (SleipAI; recorded on a tripod mounted iPhone 14pro [SL]); the Equinosis Q Lameness Locator (LL); the EquiMoves (EM); and subjective evaluation (SE).

Study design

Descriptive clinical study.

Methods

Straight line trot data were collected from 52 client‐owned horses in regular training. Limbs were categorised as symmetric or asymmetric. Number of analysed strides were compared with Wilcoxon's each pairs test. Inter‐rater reliability in classification of asymmetric limbs was assessed with Light's Kappa. Bland Altman analysis of normalised asymmetry data was performed.

Results

Data from 41 horses were included. Most horses showed mild asymmetry. The EM analysed significantly more strides than the other systems, both for forelimbs and for hindlimbs (53 ± 11 strides for both, respectively; p < 0.006). The LL analysed significantly more hindlimbs strides (45 ± 13) than the SL (27 ± 6; p < 0.001). Moderate inter‐rater agreement for asymmetry classification was found between systems (k = 0.59 forelimbs; 0.44 hindlimbs); agreement decreased when including the SE. For the normalised asymmetry data, the strongest agreement was found between the two IMU systems.

Main limitations

Horses were assessed during straight‐line trot only.

Conclusions

The objective systems were comparable in classification of asymmetric limbs under field conditions when using defined asymmetry thresholds. Discrepancies stemmed largely from the imposed thresholds (i.e., systems largely identified same‐side asymmetry). Overall, the strongest agreement was found between LL and EM. The SL analysed significantly fewer hindlimb strides than the LL and EM which could represent a limitation of the Sleip AI.
CircROR1 upregulates CCNE1 expression to promote melanoma invasion and metastasis by recruiting KAT2A
Authors: Sun Litong , Bin Shizhen , Huang Chenghui , Wang Qi
Published: April 2024

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in cancer occurrence and progression. To explore and elucidate the clinical significance of specific circular RNA in melanoma and its potential molecular mechanism. CircROR1 expression in melanoma cells and tissues was confirmed by qRT–PCR and ISH. qRT–PCR and Western blotting were performed to measure the levels of CCNE1, KAT2A, MMP9 and TIMP2. MTT, Transwell and wound healing assays were performed to evaluate cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis. A xenograft mouse model was established to further verify the CircROR1/CCNE1 axis in vivo. RNA pull‐down and RIP assays were performed to detect the direct interaction KAT2A and CircROR1. A ChIP assay was used to investigate the enrichment of H3K9ac acetylation in the CCNE1 promoter. CircROR1 was significantly upregulated in metastatic melanoma cells and tissues, promoting proliferation, invasion and metastasis in vitro and tumour growth in vivo. CircROR1 overexpression increased CCNE1 and MMP9 protein expression and decreased TIMP2 protein expression. Functional rescue assays demonstrated that CircROR1 played a role in promoting malignant progression through CCNE1. CircROR1 specifically bound to the KAT2A protein without affecting its expression. CircROR1 overexpression increased the level of H3K9ac modification in the CCNE1 promoter region by recruiting KAT2A, thus upregulating CCNE1 expression. CircROR1 upregulates CCNE1 expression through KAT2A‐mediated histone acetylation. Our research confirms the critical role of CircROR1 in melanoma invasion and metastasis, and CircROR1 could serve as a potential therapeutic target for melanoma treatment.
Enablers or deterrent? Role of street level managers in use of creativity at the frontlines
Authors: Bashir Mohsin , Masood Ayesha
Published: April 2024

Using qualitative data from frontline police organizations in Punjab, Pakistan, this article investigates the role of street level management on creativity and improvisation in the frontline. Our findings show that the professional identities and attitudes of the street level managers play an important role in mediating creativity by the frontline workers, especially in the hierarchal organizational structure. If the managers adopted rule‐following attitude, frontline workers often faced hindrances in the use of creativity, leading to alienation. In contrast, if managers adopted a defiant attitude, frontline workers engaged in moderated creativity as they assumed the risk of rule breaking. This shows that creativity and innovation in organizations with no formal mandate to improvize is a messy and political process. Our study indicates the need to extend the research on policy innovation to hierarchal bureaucracies and organisational contexts where team work is not encouraged.
Traceability of Guizhou green tea production areas based on multi‐element characteristics combined with biochemical components
Authors: Huang Qing , Xia Haitian , Zhang Ticui , Li Sen , Wang Yuanhao , Yu Xiaofang , Zhao Huifang
Published: April 2024

The unique geographical environment of Guizhou has created the unique quality characteristics of green tea. To distinguish green tea from different regions in Guizhou, and provide a theoretical basis for origin traceability and quality evaluation for producers and consumers, this article analysed 12 mineral elements, 2 stable isotopes and 3 biochemical components in green tea samples from different regions in Guizhou, and combined with analysis of variance (ANOVA), principal component analysis (PCA), linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS–DA), the possibility of identifying and distinguishing the origin of green tea in Guizhou was studied. The results show that LDA has the highest discriminant accuracy, which can reach 93.3%. In addition, the data showed that Ca, Zn, Mn, Cr, Pb, As and caffeine were important variables to distinguish green tea samples from different regions of Guizhou.
Topical pravibismane as adjunctive therapy for moderate or severe diabetic foot infections: A phase 1b randomized, multicenter, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Lipsky Benjamin A. , Kim Paul J. , Murphy Brian , McKernan Patricia A. , Armstrong David G. , Baker Brett H. J.
Published: April 2024

This Phase 1b study was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pravibismane, a novel broad‐spectrum topical anti‐infective, in managing moderate or severe chronic diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) infections. This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, multicenter study consisted of 39 individuals undergoing pravibismane treatment and 13 individuals in the placebo group. Assessment of safety parameters included clinical observations of tolerability and pharmacokinetics from whole blood samples. Pravibismane was well‐tolerated and exhibited minimal systemic absorption, as confirmed by blood concentrations that were below the lower limit of quantitation (0.5 ng/mL) or in the low nanomolar range, which is orders of magnitude below the threshold of pharmacological relevance for pravibismane. Pravibismane treated subjects showed approximately 3‐fold decrease in ulcer size compared to the placebo group (85% vs. 30%, p = 0.27). Furthermore, the incidence of ulcer‐related lower limb amputations was approximately 6‐fold lower (2.6%) in the pooled pravibismane group versus 15.4% in the placebo group (p = 0.15). There were no treatment emergent or serious adverse events related to study drug. The initial findings indicate that topical pravibismane was safe and potentially effective treatment for improving recovery from infected chronic ulcers by reducing ulcer size and facilitating wound healing in infected DFUs (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02723539).
Peripheral nerve‐derived Sema3A promotes osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells through the Wnt/β‐catenin/Nrp1 positive feedback loop
Authors: Shi Jingcun , Zhang Bingqing , Wu Ziqian , Zhang Yuhan , Gupta Anand , Wang Xudong , Wang Jieyu , Pan Lisha , Xiao Meng , Zhang Shijian , Wang Lei
Published: April 2024

Sensory nerves play a crucial role in maintaining bone homeostasis by releasing Semaphorin 3A (Sema3A). However, the specific mechanism of Sema3A in regulation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) during bone remodelling remains unclear. The tibial denervation model was used and the denervated tibia exhibited significantly lower mass as compared to sham operated bones. In vitro, BMMSCs cocultured with dorsal root ganglion cells (DRGs) or stimulated by Sema3A could promote osteogenic differentiation through the Wnt/β‐catenin/Nrp1 positive feedback loop, and the enhancement of osteogenic activity could be inhibited by SM345431 (Sema3A‐specific inhibitor). In addition, Sema3A‐stimulated BMMSCs or intravenous injection of Sema3A could promote new bone formation in vivo. To sum up, the coregulation of bone remodelling is due to the ageing of BMMSCs and increased osteoclast activity. Furthermore, the sensory neurotransmitter Sema3A promotes osteogenic differentiation of BMMSCs via Wnt/β‐catenin/Nrp1 positive feedback loop, thus promoting osteogenesis in vivo and in vitro.
Combined antibacterial effect of Origanum essential oils and antibiotics against multiresistant foodborne Salmonella isolated from poultry and shellfish in Morocco
Authors: Zahli Rajae , El Baaboua Aicha , Belmehdi Omar , Abrini Jamal , El Maadoudi Mohammed , El Harsal Abdeltif , El Issaoui Kaoutar , Mezzoug Nadia , Senhaji Nadia Skali
Published: April 2024

The present study aims to assess the antibacterial activity of endemic Moroccan Origanum essential oils (Origanum elongatum and Origanum compactum) alone and in association with antibiotics against multidrug resistant foodborne Salmonella. The well diffusion and microdilution procedures were used to evaluate the antibacterial activity. The synergistic interactions between antibiotics and EOs were determined using the checkerboard assay. The results of the antibacterial activity indicated that all of Salmonella serovars isolates that were examined were highly inhibited by EOs. This effect was confirmed by the microdilution technique, where 0.125% was noted as the smallest MIC value. Based on the obtained MBC values, O. elongatum shown a bactericidal action against the tested strains as indicated by the acquired MBC values. While O. compactum showed this effect against different serovars of Salmonella isolates. Origanum EOs could be employed as an alternative to the former protocols against resistant infectious diseases.
Effect of different voltages of dielectric barrier discharge cold plasma sterilization on the quality of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) during cryopreservation
Authors: Chen Xiaoqiao , Zheng Kailong , Qu Yang , Cao Junhao , Yang Haozheng , Li Xiuxia , Li Xuepeng
Published: April 2024

In this study, the effect of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) cold plasma at different voltages (60, 70, and 80 kV) on the freshness and quality changes of rainbow trout was investigated. The results showed that the voltage of DBD was negatively and positively correlated with the total viable counts and degree of lipid oxidation, respectively. Based on the magnitudes of TVC and TVB‐N, it was observed that the 70 kV DBD treatment extended the shelf life of fillets by at least 2 days. Furthermore, texture softening due to the extension of storage time was alleviated by the DBD treatment. Under 70 kV DBD treatment, the degree of myofibril fragmentation and the leaching of small molecule peptides were reduced. Microstructure analysis revealed that the DBD treatment delayed the textural deterioration during cryopreservation. Taken together, the shelf life of fillets could be extended by 70 kV DBD treatment, while its freshness and quality could be well maintained.
Susceptibility of Salmonella enterica Typhimurium dry surface biofilms to disinfection
Authors: Duggan Katrina , Shepherd Mark , Maillard Jean‐Yves
Published: April 2024

In food preparation and manufacturing environments, surfaces contaminated with Salmonella can lead to outbreaks of Salmonellosis. We hypothesise that Salmonella resides on dry surfaces in a biofilm form leading to potential environmental persistence and transfer following contact. This is the first study reporting that Salmonella Typhimurium can form dry surface biofilm (DSB). Six disinfectants commonly used in the food industry were evaluated for their efficacy against the DSB. The two most efficacious formulations reduced bacterial viability in DSB by >99.99% when combined with mechanical removal (5 sec wiping; 300 g weight). Five out of six formulations significantly reduced bacterial transfer when combined with wiping. Complete eradication of Salmonella Typhimurium DSB was challenging, and mechanical removal was essential to produce a >99.99% reduction in bacterial viability within DSB. This study highlights a potential mode of survival of Salmonella Typhimurium on food‐contact surfaces and DSB challenges for disinfection.
The consequences of sibling criminal legal system contact for family life
Authors: Wakefield Sara , Baker Garrett , Wildeman Christopher
Published: April 2024

Objective

To consider whether one sibling's criminal legal system contact influences another's material conditions, social support, and mental health and behavioral problems.

Background

Sibling incarceration is both the most common form of familial incarceration in the United States, with more than one in four Americans reporting ever experiencing this event, and highly unequally distributed. Despite how prevalent and unequally distributed sibling criminal legal system contact is, little research considers the consequences of that event for family life. This study seeks to partially fill that gap by testing whether and how a sibling's criminal legal system contact is associated with changes in the material conditions, social support, and wellbeing of caregivers and other children.

Method

Using data from the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods, the authors estimate hierarchical linear models to consider the relationship between sibling criminal legal system contact and three core indicators of familial and child wellbeing: familial (1) social support and (2) material insecurity, and (3) child wellbeing, as indicated by behavioral and mental health problems using validated scales.

Results

Sibling criminal legal system contact is associated with a reduction in the wellbeing of other children and contributes to declines in familial social support and material security.

Conclusion

Taken together, the results suggest that a sibling's criminal legal system contact can disrupt home life for siblings and families alike, highlighting yet another way that mass criminalization may imperil families and children.
Olfactory training improves emotion matching ability in 6–9 years old children — preliminary evidence
Authors: Pieniak Michal , Rokosz Marta , Ivcevic Zorana , Reichert Aleksandra , Żyżelewicz Barbara , Nawrocka Paulina , Lebuda Izabela , Oleszkiewicz Anna
Published: April 2024

Emotion knowledge involves the ability to recognize and express emotions and understand emotional processes. The neural substrates of emotion knowledge include i.a. the amygdala, orbitofrontal cortex, and anterior cingulate cortex. These structures are also involved in processing olfactory stimuli and their volume and functional activity have been shown to increase after a period of regular olfactory stimulation (olfactory training, OT). We verified if OT will improve one aspect of emotion knowledge — the ability to match emotional facial expressions. Eighty‐three children (39 boys) aged 6–9 years were randomly assigned either to an OT group (OTG) that smelled a set of four odors (lemon, cloves, eucalyptus, rose) twice a day for 12 weeks or to a placebo group that performed the training with odorless stimuli. Children in the OTG (n = 40) matched emotional facial expressions significantly better after OT as compared with their baseline score. This effect was not present in the placebo group (n = 43) whose scores remained the same after OT.

Practical applications

This novel finding suggests the potential of olfactory stimulation in supporting emotion knowledge in children and bridges recent findings in sensory studies, psychophysiology, and emotional development. Further studies are necessary to delineate which aspects of emotion knowledge might be enhanced by OT. In future, OT might be potentially included in programs designed for groups with specific emotion knowledge deficits.
Use of levetiracetam for the successful treatment of suspected myoclonic seizures: five dogs (2016‐2022)
Authors: Linder J. , Mehra J. , Miller S. , Lewis M. J. , Bentley R. T. , Thomovsky S.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Myoclonic seizures are considered a type of generalised seizure characterised by brief, jerking movements of the body. The aim of this study is to describe cases of suspected canine myoclonic seizure of idiopathic aetiology and to discuss the successful use of the anticonvulsant levetiracetam as treatment in each of these cases.

Materials and Methods

Dogs with epileptic myoclonus suspected to be idiopathic in aetiology were considered for inclusion. Medical records were reviewed for physical and neurologic examination findings, clinicopathologic results, and diagnostic imaging results. All included dogs were treated with levetiracetam, and their response was reported.

Results

Five dogs were included, all of which had suspected myoclonic seizures either observed in‐person or on video recording by a board‐certified veterinary neurologist. The duration of myoclonic seizures preceding treatment ranged from one day to one year. One dog also experienced a generalised tonic–clonic seizure. All dogs were treated with levetiracetam. Two dogs experienced long‐term myoclonic seizure freedom (duration seizure‐free of at least 1 year), and two dogs experienced marked decreased myoclonic seizure frequency. One dog experienced immediate abatement of myoclonic seizures, although levetiracetam was only utilised for 1 month following onset of myoclonic seizures in this patient.

Clinical Significance

Myoclonic seizures can be idiopathic in aetiology. Levetiracetam can be used effectively to rapidly stop myoclonic seizures and to decrease the frequency of myoclonic seizures.
Proline accumulation and antioxidant response are crucial for citrus tolerance to UV‐B light‐induced stress
Authors: Vives‐Peris V. , Gómez‐Cadenas A. , Pérez‐Clemente R. M.
Published: April 2024

Plants face a wide range of biotic and abiotic stress conditions, which are further intensified by climate change. Among these stressors, increased irradiation in terms of intensity and wavelength range can lead to detrimental effects, such as chlorophyll degradation, destruction of the PSII reaction center, generation of ROS, alterations to plant metabolism, and even plant death.

Here, we investigated the responses of two citrus genotypes, Citrus macrophylla (CM), and Troyer citrange (TC) to UV‐B light‐induced stress, by growing plants of both genotypes under control and UV‐B stress conditions for 5 days to evaluate their tolerance mechanisms.

TC seedlings had higher sensitivity to UV‐B light than CM seedlings, as they showed more damage and increased levels of oxidative harm (indicated by the accumulation of MDA). In contrast, CM seedlings exhibited specific adaptive mechanisms, including accumulation of higher levels of proline under stressful conditions, and enhanced antioxidant capacity, as evidenced by increased ascorbate peroxidase activity and upregulation of the CsAPX2 gene. Phytohormone accumulation patterns were similar in both genotypes, with a decrease in ABA content in response to UV‐B light. Furthermore, expression of genes involved in light perception and response was specifically affected in the tolerant CM seedlings, which exhibited higher expression of CsHYH/CsHY5 and CsRUP1‐2 genes.

These findings underscore the importance of the antioxidant system in citrus plants subjected to UV‐B light‐induced stress and suggest that CsHYH/CsHY5 and CsRUP1‐2 could be considered genes associated with tolerance to such challenging conditions.
Metabolomics‐driven investigation of plant defense response against pest and pathogen attack
Authors: Kumari Megha , Yagnik Kalpesh Nath , Gupta Vaishali , Singh Indrakant K. , Gupta Ravi , Verma Praveen K. , Singh Archana
Published: April 2024

The advancement of metabolomics has assisted in the identification of various bewildering characteristics of the biological system. Metabolomics is a standard approach, facilitating crucial aspects of system biology with absolute quantification of metabolites using minimum samples, based on liquid/gas chromatography, mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance. The metabolome profiling has narrowed the wide gaps of missing information and has enhanced the understanding of a wide spectrum of plant–environment interactions by highlighting the complex pathways regulating biochemical reactions and cellular physiology under a particular set of conditions. This high throughput technique also plays a prominent role in combined analyses of plant metabolomics and other omics datasets. Plant metabolomics has opened a wide paradigm of opportunities for developing stress‐tolerant plants, ensuring better food quality and quantity. However, despite advantageous methods and databases, the technique has a few limitations, such as ineffective 3D capturing of metabolites, low comprehensiveness, and lack of cell‐based sampling. In the future, an expansion of plant–pathogen and plant–pest response towards the metabolite architecture is necessary to understand the intricacies of plant defence against invaders, elucidation of metabolic pathway operational during defence and developing a direct correlation between metabolites and biotic stresses. Our aim is to provide an overview of metabolomics and its utilities for the identification of biomarkers or key metabolites associated with biotic stress, devising improved diagnostic methods to efficiently assess pest and pathogen attack and generating improved crop varieties with the help of combined application of analytical and molecular tools.
COVID‐19 pandemic in Ethiopia: Socioeconomic impacts and government recovery measures
Authors: Nechifor Victor , Boysen Ole , Ferrari Emanuele , Hailu Kidanemariam , Beshir Mohammed
Published: April 2024

The study assesses the implications of the COVID‐19 pandemic and the government responses for the economic performance and poverty incidence in Ethiopia for the fiscal years of 2019/20 and 2020/21. It accounts for the impacts of the pandemic on factor productivity, trade costs, export demand, tourism, remittances and foreign direct investment (FDI). An economy‐wide multi‐sectoral model determines impacts at macroeconomic, sectoral, and household levels. A poverty analysis module characterises the effects of the pandemic on food poverty headcount, gap, and severity. Results show that the COVID‐19 impacts could have been significant across all macroeconomic metrics had the government not intervened through fiscal and spending measures. However, much of the recovery through government intervention was driven by agricultural and food processing sectors while output in manufacturing, construction and services sectors continued to be negatively affected. Without government intervention, the food poverty headcount would have increased by about five percentage points. The government measures have mitigated that effect allowing food poverty to reach pre‐COVID‐19 values in 2020/21. Nevertheless, with all measures combined, poor urban households may have been left behind and would require more targeted support to compensate for a significant loss of income.