bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nucleic acid degradation after long‐term dried blood spot storage
Authors: Li Juan , Ulloa Gabriela M. , Mayor Pedro , Santolalla Robles Meddly L. , Greenwood Alex D.
Published: May 2024

Collecting and preserving biological samples in the field, particularly in remote areas in tropical forests, prior to laboratory analysis is challenging. Blood samples in many cases are used for nucleic acid‐based species determination, genomics or pathogen research. In most cases, maintaining a cold chain is impossible and samples remain at ambient temperature for extended periods of time before controlled storage conditions become available. Dried blood spot (DBS) storage, blood stored on cellulose‐based paper, has been widely applied to facilitate sample collection and preservation in the field for decades. However, it is unclear how long‐term storage on this substrate affects nucleic acid concentration and integrity. We analysed nucleic acid quality from DBS stored on Whatman filter paper no. 3 and FTA cards for up to 15 years in comparison to cold‐chain stored samples using four nucleic acid extraction methods. We examined the ability to identify viral sequences from samples of 12 free‐ranging primates in the Amazon forest, using targeted hybridization capture, and determined if mitochondrial genomes could be retrieved. The results suggest that even after extended periods of storage, DBS will be suitable for some genomic applications but may be of limited use for viral pathogen research, particularly RNA viruses.
Kink‐band Kinematic Analysis and its Implications for Late‐stage Deformation in the Internal Parts of the Zagros Collision (Sanandaj–Sirjan Zone) in West Iran
Authors: HEYDARI Maryam , BEHYARI Mahdi
Published: May 2024

In the internal parts of the Zagros collision zone, several deformation phases have been superimposed. The early deformation phase caused the development of a penetrative foliation. The late‐stage deformation phase was preferentially accommodated within shear zones and caused the generation of shear bands, implying a non‐coaxial component of deformation, the end of this stage deformation was marked by the development of kink‐bands. In the vicinity of Zagros suture zone, the kink angle increased from 40° to 60°, and the kink‐bands was converted to chevron folds. In this region, the external (α) and internal (β) angular ratio is α/β ≠ 1 and kink angle increased, and deformation occurred with 10% to 30% volume loss. Farther from the suture zone in the east, α/β = 1; and total volume was constant or increased by 5% to 10%. Kink‐bands kinematic analysis in the study area revealed this structures were sensitive to deformation conditions and components such that, with decreasing distance to the Zagros suture zone, shearing and rotation increased, a high kinematic vorticity dominated, and volume loss occurred during deformation.
Accommodation available: China, Western powers and the operation of structural power in theUNSecurity Council
Authors: Gowan Richard
Published: May 2024

This article focuses on the way that China and the main Western states on the United Nations Security Council have pursued “mutual accommodation” as China's geopolitical weight has grown in recent years. China still only rarely uses its veto and typically avoids taking responsibility for drafting Council products. Western powers are nonetheless careful to acknowledge and accommodate China's interests wherever possible, through tactics like watering down proposed Council products and avoiding confrontational meetings. China reciprocates by not blocking Western actions outright, but can take advantage of Western caution to gain leverage in the Council. In light of their toxic relationship with Russia, the United States, the United Kingdom and France see avoiding a strategic breakdown in their relations with China as in their strategic interests. Overall, the article highlights how the structural power inherent in the mutual constitution of the capacities and identities of the permanent members of the Security Council influences the social relations of the members and helps them to reach a compromise over many challenging issues The article illustrates this argument with detailed examples from Council diplomacy over Myanmar and Ukraine.
Comprehensive power shifts in the making: China's policy transfer partnerships with the United Nations
Authors: Haug Sebastian , Waisbich Laura Trajber
Published: May 2024

China and the United Nations (UN) have set up a growing number of partnerships to transfer Chinese domestic development policies across the South. By examining these partnerships through a power shift lens, we suggest that UN‐endorsed policy transfer processes can function as a window into shifting international cooperation dynamics. The paper first provides an overview of the evolution and key characteristics of China–UN policy transfer partnerships, focusing on China's trajectory as a provider of policy solutions. It then analyses the extent to which the evolving partnership landscape contributes to and reflects shifts in China's compulsory, institutional, structural and productive power. Overall, we argue that policy transfer partnerships contribute to comprehensive power shifts in the making: while empirical data point to China's often (still) limited and evolving ability to influence the actions of others, our findings provide evidence for increasing levels of Chinese influence in and through policy transfer partnerships across all power types.
Power shifts in international organisations: China at the United Nations
Authors: Haug Sebastian , Foot Rosemary , Baumann Max‐Otto
Published: May 2024

The People's Republic of China is central to current debates about power shifts in international organisations, but a systematic and comprehensive assessment of China‐related shifts has been missing. As Special Issue introduction, this article contributes to addressing this gap and examines whether, how and to what extent China‐related power shifts have unfolded at the United Nations (UN) over the last two decades or so. We define power shifts as changes in the ability of actors to shape others' capacities to act and outline a framework that builds on Barnett and Duvall's four power types of compulsory, institutional, structural and productive power. Drawing from Special Issue contributions, our analysis covers empirical insights from the UN's three main pillars – peace and security, development and human rights – and paints an uneven picture. Despite continuing Western dominance, China is mobilising more compulsory power means than two decades ago. Chinese attempts to enact institutional power have also increased but mostly unfold in multilateral niches and remain cautious. While China's structural power position has expanded, China‐related effects in productive power have so far remained limited and scattered. We conclude with a combined assessment of changes across power types and discuss research and policy implications.
Cellular mechanism underlying leptin‐induced anion secretion of rat epididymal epithelial cells
Authors: Gao Dong‐Dong , Liu Guo‐Qing , Chen Yi‐Lin , Ding Nan , Zhong Jia‐Hui , Liang Guang‐Nan , Deng Wei‐Ji , Li Pei‐Lun , Su Jia‐Rui , Wang Ming , Huang Jun‐Hao , Hu Min
Published: May 2024

Background

A large number of studies have shown that leptin plays an important role in the regulation of fertility via the hypothalamus‐pituitary‐gonad axis. However, its peripheral function in epididymis was still elusive.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the pro‐secretion effect of leptin on the rat epididymal epithelium.

Materials and methods

In the present study, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and immunohistochemical analysis were employed to detect the expression pattern of leptin receptors in rat epididymis. The pro‐secretion effect of leptin on epididymal epithelial cells was measured by short‐circuit current, and the prostaglandin E2 and cyclic adenosine monophosphate level was evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

We verified that the leptin receptor was located on the epididymal epithelium, with a relatively high expression level in corpus and cauda epididymis. Ussing chamber experiments showed that leptin stimulated a significant rise of the short‐circuit current in rat epididymal epithelial cells, which could be abolished by the specific leptin receptor antagonist peptide Allo‐aca, or by removing the ambient Cl− and HCO3−. Furthermore, the leptin‐stimulated short‐circuit current response could be abrogated by blocking the apical cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator or the basolateral Na+‐K+‐2Cl− cotransporter. Our pharmacological experiments manifested that interfering with the prostaglandin H synthase‐2‐prostaglandin E2‐EP2/EP4‐adenylate cyclase pathways could significantly blunt the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator‐mediated anion secretion induced by leptin. The enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay demonstrated that leptin could induce a substantial increase in prostaglandin E2 release and cyclic adenosine monophosphate synthesis of primary cultured rat cauda epididymal epithelial cells. Our data also suggested that JAK2, ERK, and PI3K‐dependent phosphorylation may be involved in the activation of prostaglandin H synthase‐2 and the subsequent prostaglandin E2 production.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated the pro‐secretion function of leptin in rat epididymal epithelium via the activation of cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator and Na+‐K+‐2Cl− cotransporter, which was dependent on the paracrine/autocrine prostaglandin E2 stimulated EP2/EP4‐adenylate cyclase pathways, and thus contributed to the formation of an appropriate microenvironment essential for sperm maturation.
Advancement of 3D printing technology for the development of a training model in US‐guided vesicoamniotic shunting for early LUTO therapy
Authors: Recker Florian , Schremmer Tobias , Berg Christoph , Schäfer Valentin Sebastian , Strizek Brigitte , Jimenez‐Cruz Jorge
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Prenatal lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) is a rare and challenging condition with potential severe morbidity and mortality. Prenatal shunting methods, specifically vesicoamniotic shunting (VAS) and fetal cystoscopy, aim to manage this condition. However, comprehensive education and training are hindered by the rarity of LUTO. To address this gap, we present a low‐cost 3D‐printed ultrasound training model for VAS in LUTO fetuses. The aim of the study was to evaluate ultrasound and haptic fidelity of the model.

Material and Methods

Ultrasound images of three LUTO fetuses at 12–14 weeks were utilized to create detailed 3D‐printed models. Fusion360TM software generated stereo‐lithography files, and the Formlabs Form3® printer, using Flexible 80A resin, produced the models. A simulation box mimicking uterine conditions and fetal anatomy was developed for testing. Ultrasound assessments determined model accuracy, and expert evaluations gauged fidelity for VAS placement.

Results

The 3D‐printed model accurately replicated LUTO fetal anatomy, demonstrating structural integrity and realistic sonographic and haptic feedback during 20 punctures. Macroscopic visualization confirmed the model's durability and authenticity.

Discussion

This innovative 3D‐printed model addresses the scarcity of LUTO cases and the lack of realistic training tools. Simulation models enhance skills, providing a controlled learning environment that bridges theoretical knowledge and clinical application, potentially improving patient outcomes.

Conclusions

The 3D‐printed training model for VAS in LUTO represents a significant advancement in surgical education, offering realistic anatomical simulation and tactile feedback. Future studies should assess its effectiveness in enhancing surgical skills and impacting patient outcomes in clinical practice.
Resveratrol‐coated chitosan mats promote angiogenesis for enhanced wound healing in animal model
Authors: Moghaddam Asma , Nejaddehbashi Fereshteh , Orazizadeh Mahmoud
Published: May 2024

Background

Growing incidences of chronic wounds recommend the development of optimal therapeutic wound dressings. Electrospun nanofibers have been considered to show potential wound healing properties when accompanied by other wound dressing materials. This study aimed to explore the potential role of Chitosan (CS) nanofibrous mats coated with resveratrol (RS) as an antioxidant and pro‐angiogenic agent in rat models of skin wound healing.

Methods

Electrospun chitosan/polyethylene oxide (PEO) nanofibers were prepared using electrospinning technology and coated by 0.05 and 0.1 mg.ml resveratrol named as (CS/RS 0.05) and (CS/RS 0.1), respectively. The scaffolds were characterized physiochemically such as in vitro release study, TGA, FTIR spectroscopy analysis, biodegradability, and human dermal fibroblast seeding assay. The scaffold was subsequently used in vivo as a skin substitute on a rat skin wound model.

Results

In vitro tests revealed that all scaffolds promoted cell adhesion and proliferation. However, more cell viability was observed in CS/RS 0.1 scaffold. The biocompatibility of the scaffolds was validated by MTT assay, and the results did not show any toxic effects on human dermal fibroblasts. It was observed that RS‐coated scaffolds had the ability to release RS in a controlled manner. In in vivo tests CS/RS 0.1 scaffold had the greatest impact on the healing process by improving the neodermis formation and modulated inflammation in wound granulation tissue. Histological analysis revealed enhanced vascular endothelial growth factor expression, epithelialization and increased depth of wound granulation tissue.

Conclusions

The RS‐coated CS/PEO nanofibrous scaffold accelerates wound healing and may be useful as a dressing for cell transfer and clinical skin regeneration.
Managing dissatisfaction after multifocal intraocular lens implantation through lens exchange using monofocal or alternative multifocal IOLs
Authors: Al‐Shymali Olena , Cantó‐Cerdán Mario , Alió del Barrio Jorge L. , McAlinden Colm , Yebana Pilar , Alio Jorge L.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To manage patient dissatisfaction following multifocal intraocular lens (MF‐IOL) implantation by IOL exchange with either a monofocal or an alternative MF‐IOL, and to compare outcomes in these two groups.

Methods

MF‐IOL exchange was performed in 32 patients (64 eyes) with neuroadaptation failure. The MF‐to‐MF group involved patients who had a MF‐IOL exchanged with another MF‐IOL of a different optical profile and the MF‐to‐MO group involved patients who had a MF‐IOL exchanged to a monofocal IOL. Visual outcomes and complications were analysed. The Quality of Vision (QoV) questionnaire, Visual Function Index (VF‐14) and its Rasch‐revised version (VF‐8R) were also used to assess outcomes.

Results

There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the QoV scores between the two groups, both preoperatively and postoperatively. Preoperatively, there were no significant differences in VF‐14 scores between both groups (p > 0.05). Postoperatively, there were statistically significant differences in VF‐14 (total score, intermediate vision and near vision) in favour of the MF‐to‐MF group (p < 0.05). The postoperative VF‐8R score in the MF‐to‐MF group was significantly better than the MF‐to‐MO group (p ≤ 0.001). Uncorrected and corrected near as well as corrected distance visual acuities were significantly better (p < 0.05) in the MF‐to‐MF group compared to the MF‐to‐MO group at 3 months.

Conclusion

Patient dissatisfaction and neuroadaptation failure following MF‐IOL implantation can be managed by an IOL exchange with an alternative optical design of MF‐IOL or a monofocal IOL. Although, in the current study, the MF‐to‐MF group showed some better postoperative results, both options are feasible solutions.
Editorial: Revisit the causes and long‐term outcomes in cirrhosis patients
Authors: Yeh Ming‐Lun , Huang Jee‐Fu
Published: May 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Tran et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18024 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18065.
Letter: Early real‐world evidence from the United Arab Emirates of the persistence, effectiveness and safety of risankizumab for the treatment of Crohn's disease—Authors' reply
Authors: Yiu Tsz Hong , Ko Yanna , Pudipeddi Aviv , Natale Patrizia , Leong Rupert W.
Published: May 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Yiu et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18006 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18049
NIPT for adult‐onset conditions: Australian NIPT users' views
Authors: Marks India R. , Devolder Katrien , Bowman‐Smart Hilary , Johnston Molly , Mills Catherine
Published: May 2024

Noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) has become widely available in recent years. While initially used to screen for trisomies 21, 18, and 13, the test has expanded to include a range of other conditions and will likely expand further. This paper addresses the ethical issues that arise from one particularly controversial potential use of NIPT: screening for adult‐onset conditions (AOCs). We report data from our quantitative survey of Australian NIPT users' views on the ethical issues raised by NIPT for AOCs. The survey ascertained support for NIPT for several traits and conditions including AOCs. Participants were then asked about their level of concern around implications of screening for AOCs for the future child and parent(s). Descriptive and comparative data analyses were conducted. In total, 109 respondents were included in data analysis. The majority of respondents expressed support for NIPT screening for preventable (70.9%) and nonpreventable AOCs (80.8%). Most respondents indicated concern around potential harmful impacts associated with NIPT for AOCs, including the psychological impact on the future child and on the parent(s). Despite this, the majority of participants thought that continuation of a pregnancy known to be predisposed to an AOC is ethically acceptable. The implications of these data are critically discussed and used to inform the normative claim that prospective parents should be given access to NIPT for AOCs. The study contributes to a body of research debating the ethical acceptability and regulation of various applications of NIPT as screening panels expand.
Protecting against misinformation: Evaluating the effectiveness of three techniques to reduce memory conformity
Authors: Kękuś Magdalena , Dziubańska Regina , Michalak Kacper , Polczyk Romuald , Szpitalak Malwina , Barzykowski Krystian
Published: May 2024

The memory conformity effect occurs when people witness a given incident (e.g. a crime) then talk to each other about it, and the statement of one person affects the memory account of the other person with respect to this incident. The aim of this article is to improve the quality of witness testimony by verifying the effectiveness of three methods that aim to reduce memory conformity effect: (1) an extended warning against misinformation; (2) a method based on information about memory functioning and its fallibility and (3) a method consisting in motivating participants to resist influence and demonstrating their individual vulnerability to it. In the presented experiment, the innovative MORI technique was used to study the memory conformity effect. This technique allows a pair of participants to sit beside each other, look at the same screen and see a different version of the same criminal event. In the next stages, the subjects are asked to answer a series of questions about different details, thereby introducing mutual misinformation; then, the participants perform an individual memory test. In the experimental conditions, this test was preceded by one of the three tested methods in each group, with the aim of determining their effectiveness in reducing memory conformity. It turns out that the implementation of an extended warning against misinformation eliminated the memory conformity effect, while the application of two other methods led to a reduction (but not complete elimination) of the studied phenomenon.
Pathologic TDP‐43 downregulates myelin gene expression in the monkey brain
Authors: Zhu Longhong , Bai Dazhang , Wang Xiang , Ou Kaili , Li Bang , Jia Qingqing , Tan Zhiqiang , Liang Jiahui , He Dajian , Yan Sen , Wang Lu , Li Shihua , Li Xiao‐Jiang , Yin Peng
Published: May 2024

Growing evidence indicates that non‐neuronal oligodendrocyte plays an important role in Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases. In patient's brain, the impaired myelin structure is a pathological feature with the observation of TDP‐43 in cytoplasm of oligodendrocyte. However, the mechanism underlying the gain of function by TDP‐43 in oligodendrocytes, which are vital for the axonal integrity, remains unclear. Recently, we found that the primate‐specific cleavage of truncated TDP‐43 fragments occurred in cytoplasm of monkey neural cells. This finding opened up the avenue to investigate the myelin integrity affected by pathogenic TDP‐43 in oligodendrocytes. In current study, we demonstrated that the truncated TDP‐35 in oligodendrocytes specifically, could lead to the dysfunctional demyelination in corpus callosum of monkey. As a consequence of the interaction of myelin regulatory factor with the accumulated TDP‐35 in cytoplasm, the downstream myelin‐associated genes expression was downregulated at the transcriptional level. Our study aims to investigate the potential effect on myelin structure injury, affected by the truncated TDP‐43 in oligodendrocyte, which provided the additional clues on the gain of function during the progressive pathogenesis and symptoms in TDP‐43 related diseases.
Trends in the nonmedical misuse of benzodiazepines and Z‐hypnotics among school‐aged adolescents (2016–2021): gender differences and related factors
Authors: Carrasco‐Garrido Pilar , Hernández‐Barrera Valentín , Jiménez‐Trujillo Isabel , Lima Florencio Lidiane , Gallardo Pino Carmen , Yeamans Spencer , Palacios‐Ceña Domingo
Published: May 2024

Background

The misuse of psychotropic medication has increased during the past decade, especially among adolescents. The aim of our study was to describe the prevalence and patterns of the nonmedical use of benzodiazepines (BDZ) and Z‐hypnotics among school‐aged adolescents through the lens of sex. In addition, we sought to analyze the temporal evolution of the nonmedical use of these drugs during the period 2016–2021.

Methods

The temporal evolution of the nonmedical use of these drugs was analyzed based on survey data collected in 2016, 2018 and 2021, which includes the first years of the COVID‐19 pandemic. To assess the possible effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic, the year at survey was conducted was introduced as a categorical variable. We used data from the Spanish State Survey on Drug Use in Secondary Education, which covers drug use among students aged 14–18 years. Using multivariate logistic regression models, we estimated the independent effect of different variables (sociodemographic data, use of other psychoactive substances, risk perception and availability) on the nonmedical use of BDZ and Z‐hypnotics.

Results

In total, survey data from 95,700 adolescents were included in our analysis. The nonmedical use of BDZ and Z‐hypnotics increased among adolescents during the study period. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) from 2016 to 2018 was 1.11 (95% CI 0.94–1.31) and from 2018 to 2021 the AOR was 1.26 (95% CI 1.08–1.46), using 2016 and 2018, respectively, as reference years. The nonmedical use of BDZ and Z‐hypnotics was more likely in adolescent girls than boys (AOR = 2.11). The nonmedical use of prescription opioids (AOR = 3.44), novel psychoactive substances and other illicit psychoactive drugs (AOR = 4.10) were risk factors for the nonmedical use of BDZ and Z‐hypnotics in both sexes. Use of cannabis (AOR = 1.38) was a predictor of nonmedical use in female adolescents only.

Conclusions

This study shows that the trend of the nonmedical use of BDZ and Z‐hypnotics among school‐aged adolescents in Spain increased between 2016 and 2021. Among adolescents aged 14 to 18, the probability of nonmedical use of these psychoactive substances was twice as high for female adolescents as for male adolescents.
Differential effect of social mobility on tooth loss by race in adulthood: 1982 Pelotas Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Karam Sarah Arangurem , Schuch Helena Silveira , Demarco Flávio Fernando , Horta Bernardo L. , Borrell Luisa N. , Celeste Roger Keller , Correa Marcos Britto
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To examine the association between social mobility and tooth loss in adults from the 1982 Pelotas Birth Cohort Study and whether race modifies this association.

Methods

The Oral Health Study used data from 541 individuals who were followed up to 31 years of age. Social mobility, composed of the participants' socioeconomic position (SEP) at birth and at age 30, was categorized as never poor, upwardly mobile, downwardly mobile and always poor. The outcome was the prevalence of at least one tooth lost due to dental caries when the participants were examined at 31 years of age. The effect modifier was race (Black/Brown versus white people). Log‐binomial regression models were used to estimate crude and sex‐adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) and to determine whether the association varied with race. Statistical interactions were tested using an additive scale.

Results

The prevalence of any tooth loss was 50.8% (n = 274). In social mobility groups, the prevalence of at least one tooth lost in the never‐poor group was about 31% points higher for Black/Brown (68.2%) than for white people (37.4%). Antagonistic findings were found for the interaction between race and social mobility (Sinergy Index = 0.48; 95% CI 0.24, 0.99; and relative excess of risk due to the interaction = −1.38; 95% CI −2.34, −0.42), suggesting that the observed joint effect of race and social mobility on tooth loss was lower than the expected sum of these factors. The estimates for Black/Brown people were smaller for those who were always poor during their lives, relative to their white counterparts.

Conclusions

The findings suggest a higher prevalence of at least one tooth lost among people in the downward mobile SEP group and Black/Brown people. Greater racial inequity was found among Black/Brown people who had never experienced episodes of poverty, with Black/Brown people having a greater prevalence of at least one tooth lost than their white counterparts.
Dental service use among adults with incident type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Raittio Eero , Baelum Vibeke , Nascimento Gustavo G. , Lopez Rodrigo
Published: May 2024

Objectives

It is not clear if or how the incidence of systemic conditions like type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects dental service utilization. Using nationwide Danish register data, the aim of this study was to analyse the use of dental services 7 years before and after being diagnosed with DM2, RA or IBD between 1997 and 2011.

Methods

Information about incident DM2 was obtained from the Register for Selected Chronic Diseases and Severe Mental Disorders, and incident RA and IBD were defined based on diagnosis codes of hospital contacts identified through the National Patient Register. Separately, for each of the three conditions, each individual with the incident condition was matched to one control individual based on age, gender, country of origin, municipality of residence, highest completed education, the main source of income and income using coarsened exact matching in the year of incidence. The use of dental services and treatments received within each calendar year from 7 years before to 7 years after getting the condition were analysed with generalized estimating equations.

Results

People with incident DM2 were less likely (by seven percentage points) to be dental service users within a year than people without incident DM2 for a period extending from up to 7 years prior to 7 years after the diagnosis. This difference even slightly increased after the diagnosis. Those with incident IBD exhibited a consistently but modestly higher proportion of dental service use (three percentage points) than those without incident IBD before and after the diagnosis. Differences in the use of services between those with or without incident RA were minor. For all three systemic diseases, detected differences mainly mirrored differences in the provision of supragingival scaling and restorative treatment.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that the impact of these three systemic conditions on dental service use was minor.
Attune, animate and amplify: Creating youth voice assemblages in pARTicipatory sexuality education research
Authors: Renold EJ , Bragg Sara , Ringrose Jessica , Milne Betsy , McGeeney Ester , Timperley Vicky
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the politics and praxis of ‘youth voice assemblages’ in an exploratory and pARTicipatory research project where 125 young people (aged 11–18) from England, Scotland and Wales shared what and how they are learning about relationships, sex and sexuality. Creative methods enabled us to ‘attune’ to this learning and generate ‘darta’ (arts‐based data). We then ‘animated’ these darta as dartaphacts (creative objects) including films, poetry and education cards. Finally, we ‘amplified’ these dartaphacts in a face‐to‐face launch event. We argue that a creative ontology of ‘youth voice’ is imperative to develop more relevant, responsive and ethical sexuality and relationships education.
Firms' sustainable and responsible innovation in Nigeria: Does informality play a role?
Authors: Gasmi Farid , Kouakou Dorgyles C. M. , Sanni Maruf
Published: May 2024

At the turn of the millennium, developing countries face a twofold challenge. First, for reasons related to both intra‐ and inter‐generational justice, these countries need to follow sustainable development pathways. Second, they need to understand the deep principles underpinning informality, which is by now recognized as a structuring phenomenon of their economies. This paper sheds light on the relationship between these two goals by investigating how a Nigerian firm being formal versus informal affects its sustainable and responsible innovation (S&RI) activity. Using the entropy balancing methodology to analyze a novel database extracted from the Nigerian Business Innovation Surveys, we find that registered Nigerian firms engage in S&RI much more than those that are not. This suggests that, from the perspective of sustainable development, there should be no hiatus between recognizing the important role of the informal sector in the economy and promoting policies that give firms incentives to exit from it. By encouraging the registration of firms operating informally, these policies should help Nigeria in its transition to a sustainable market economy.
Effect of Piper auritum extract on attraction of Drosophila suzukii
Authors: Ruiz‐Montiel Cesar , Márquez‐Fernández Olivia , Mendoza‐López María Remedios , Tadeo Eduardo
Published: May 2024

Chemical signals have an important role in the survival of many animals and are essential for the exploration of the resources available in their habitat. All phytophagous insects, including dipterans, use diverse chemical compounds released by plants as olfactory signals to locate their hosts. Spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae), is a generalist fly that uses numerous plants as hosts. In this study, we evaluated the attractiveness of extracts from six plants commonly used as ornamental and medicinal plants in the southern region of Mexico. When the flies were exposed to Piper auritum Kunth (Piperaceae) extract, we observed a stimulating‐attracting effect, especially on females, whereas the other five extracts showed no significant differences from their respective controls. In addition, gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry analysis of the P. auritum extract revealed 11 compounds, where safrole and methyl eugenol (ME) showed the highest concentrations of all the compounds found. ME has been shown to attract flies, mainly males of the genus Bactrocera. In this case, we found a stronger effect on female D. suzukii, indicating a potential effect of ME as a kairomone that mainly stimulates the attraction behavior of females.
A critical review on bacterial black spot of mango caused by Xanthomonas citri pv. mangiferaeindicae: Current status and direction for future research
Authors: Sossah Frederick Leo , Aidoo Owusu Fordjour , Dofuor Aboagye Kwarteng , Osabutey Angelina Fathia , Obeng Joshua , Abormeti Fred Kormla , Duker Rahmat Quaigrane , Antwi‐Agyakwa Akua Konadu , Osei‐Owusu Jonathan , Loh Seyram Kofi , Honger Joseph Okani , Borgemeister Christian
Published: May 2024

Bacterial black spot (BBS) of mango, caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas citri pv. mangiferaeindicae, is an emerging disease affecting mango‐producing areas in Asia, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. The disease spreads primarily through wind‐driven rain and farm implements, and its host range is limited, affecting mango, cashew, and pepper plants. BBS is characterized by dark, angular lesions with elevated borders on infected leaves and fruits in the lower and upper parts of the tree canopy. Infected plants display numerous tiny water‐soaked black lesions on leaves, fruits, and stems. Early symptoms on leaves include tiny, veined, water‐soaked patches with angular black dots and occasionally chlorotic spots. Managing BBS presents challenges, but various control measures have shown effectiveness in different regions. Integrated disease control measures, such as cultural methods and removing diseased plant parts, could further reduce BBS prevalence in the field. This paper reviews the detrimental effects associated with the disease, while also offering a concise overview of the existing body of research concerning BBS and its implications for mango cultivation.
Prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its associated factors in first‐treatment drug‐naïve schizophrenia patients: A large‐scale cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hu Suoya , Liu Xuebing , Zhang Yanting , Ma Jun
Published: May 2024

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a condition that includes several risk factors specific for cardiovascular disease, is commonly detected among patients with schizophrenia (SCZ). This study elucidated the factors contributing to the development and severity of MetS in first‐treatment drug‐naïve (FTDN) patients with SCZ.

Methods

The study enrolled 668 individuals with FTDN SCZ, aged 18–49 years, who had no exposure to antipsychotic medications and been hospitalized between February 2017 and June 2022 at the largest psychiatric specialty institution in central China. Patient sociodemographic and general clinical data were collected, and their psychopathology scores and illness severity were assessed using the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) and Clinical Global Impression Scale–Severity of Illness (CGI‐SI), respectively. MetS score was calculated to determine the disease severity.

Results

The prevalence of MetS among this study population was 10.93%. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed onset age, female sex, total cholesterol, and red blood and white blood cell counts as risk factors for MetS, and deemed free tetraiodothyronine (FT4) and CGI‐SI score as protective factors. Multiple linear regression analysis result confirmed older SCZ onset age as a risk factor for elevated MetS score.

Conclusion

This study determined the prevalence of MetS in patients with FTDN SCZ and revealed the factors that influence the occurrence and severity of the disease. These findings will allow development of specific prevention and treatment strategies in clinical practice.
Can non‐invasive brain stimulation modulate peak alpha frequency in the human brain? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Millard Samantha K. , Speis Darrah B. , Skippen Patrick , Chiang Alan K. I. , Chang Wei‐Ju , Lin Andrew J. , Furman Andrew J. , Mazaheri Ali , Seminowicz David A. , Schabrun Siobhan M.
Published: May 2024

Peak alpha frequency (PAF), the dominant oscillatory frequency within the alpha range (8–12 Hz), is associated with cognitive function and several neurological conditions, including chronic pain. Manipulating PAF could offer valuable insight into the relationship between PAF and various functions and conditions, potentially providing new treatment avenues. This systematic review aimed to comprehensively synthesise effects of non‐invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) on PAF speed. Relevant studies assessing PAF pre‐ and post‐NIBS in healthy adults were identified through systematic searches of electronic databases (Embase, PubMed, PsychINFO, Scopus, The Cochrane Library) and trial registers. The Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool was employed for assessing study quality. Quantitative analysis was conducted through pairwise meta‐analysis when possible; otherwise, qualitative synthesis was performed. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020190512) and the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/2yaxz/). Eleven NIBS studies were included, all with a low risk‐of‐bias, comprising seven transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), three repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), and one transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) study. Meta‐analysis of active tACS conditions (eight conditions from five studies) revealed no significant effects on PAF (mean difference [MD] = −0.12, 95% CI = −0.32 to 0.08, p = 0.24). Qualitative synthesis provided no evidence that tDCS altered PAF and moderate evidence for transient increases in PAF with 10 Hz rTMS. However, it is crucial to note that small sample sizes were used, there was substantial variation in stimulation protocols, and most studies did not specifically target PAF alteration. Further studies are needed to determine NIBS's potential for modulating PAF.
Super absorbent polymer (SAP) on water‐salt transport in saline alkali soil: Effects of dosage, height and thickness
Authors: Shu Min , Yu Yang , Yin Mengqi , Wang Jingxue , Bandala Erick R. , Rodrigo‐Comino Jesús
Published: May 2024

Soil salinisation is a pervasive form of land degradation posing a significant threat to the global environment. Saline soil, covering roughly 10% of the total land area, represents a crucial reserve of land resources. The use of super absorbent polymer (SAP) impacts capillary water movement through the soil because of its exceptional water absorption and retention capabilities. SAP is expected to influence the intricate water‐salt migration processes and their redistribution within soil. This study employed soil column experiments to investigate the impacts of varying SAP dosages (A), heights (B) and thicknesses (C) on soil water and salt transport in the Tianjin Binhai New Area, China. The main findings showed that: (1) average capillary water rise rate decreased with SAP dosage increase. The groundwater recharge trend in time was like that of capillary water rise height; (2) SAP usage increased water and salt content on the application layer and reduced surface soil salt accumulation; (3) the best SAP combination for application was 1.1% SAP at 17–18 cm from the groundwater level. This study provides basic effective SAP application strategies for preventing soil salinisation.
Does spatial variation in insect herbivory match variations in plant quality? A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zvereva Elena L. , Castagneyrol Bastien , Kozlov Mikhail V.
Published: May 2024

Variation in herbivore pressure has often been predicted from patterns in plant traits considered as antiherbivore defences. Here, we tested whether spatial variation in field insect herbivory is associated with the variation in plant quality by conducting a meta‐analysis of 223 correlation coefficients between herbivory levels and the expression of selected plant traits. We found no overall correlation between herbivory and either concentrations of plant secondary metabolites or values of physical leaf traits. This result was due to both the large number of low correlations and the opposing directions of high correlations in individual studies. Field herbivory demonstrated a significant association only with nitrogen: herbivore pressure increased with an increase in nitrogen concentration in plant tissues. Thus, our meta‐analysis does not support either theoretical prediction, i.e., that plants possess high antiherbivore defences in localities with high herbivore pressure or that herbivory is low in localities where plant defences are high. We conclude that information about putative plant defences is insufficient to predict plant losses to insects in field conditions and that the only bottom‐up factor shaping spatial variation in insect herbivory is plant nutritive value. Our findings stress the need to improve a theory linking plant putative defences and herbivory.
Structural and functional mechanisms of actin isoforms
Authors: Heissler Sarah M. , Chinthalapudi Krishna
Published: May 2024

Actin is a highly conserved and fundamental protein in eukaryotes and participates in a broad spectrum of cellular functions. Cells maintain a conserved ratio of actin isoforms, with muscle and non‐muscle actins representing the main actin isoforms in muscle and non‐muscle cells, respectively. Actin isoforms have specific and redundant functional roles and display different biochemistries, cellular localization, and interactions with myosins and actin‐binding proteins. Understanding the specific roles of actin isoforms from the structural and functional perspective is crucial for elucidating the intricacies of cytoskeletal dynamics and regulation and their implications in health and disease. Here, we review how the structure contributes to the functional mechanisms of actin isoforms with a special emphasis on the questions of how post‐translational modifications and disease‐linked mutations affect actin isoforms biochemistry, function, and interaction with actin‐binding proteins and myosin motors.
Deep lakes support higher zooplankton functional diversity than shallow lakes: A case study in lacustrine environments affected by mining tailings (lower Doce River basin, Brazil)
Authors: Santos Gleice de Souza , Silva Edissa Emi Cortez , Diniz Leidiane Pereira , Calvi Raquel Xavier , de Oliveira Déborah Maria , Delfim Bruna Lana , De Paula Tayenne Luna Tomé , Eskinazi‐Sant'Anna Eneida M.
Published: May 2024

Tragic incidents involving mine tailings spills have impacted many aquatic ecosystems around the world. The massive mine tailings dam collapse of Fundão, which occurred in Brazil in 2015, affected several aquatic ecosystems, including shallow and deep lakes in the lower Doce River basin. Until now, the effects of mine tailings on the functional diversity of zooplankton remain poorly understood.

We investigated the functional diversity of zooplankton (functional groups, functional richness [FRic] and functional evenness [FEve]) in shallow and deep lakes, exploring the influence of environmental variables and metals. In addition, trends in functional redundancy and functional vulnerability were also assessed to understand patterns of resilience in mining‐impacted ecosystems.

Surveys were performed monthly on three deep and three shallow lakes affected by the dam failure, from October 2018 to September 2019.

In the deep lakes, the zooplankton community was dominated by smaller filter‐feeders and omnivorous species, associated with cyanobacteria density and chlorophyll‐a. Medium‐sized filters were associated to iron, suspended particulate organic matter and total organic carbon in shallow lakes. The smaller filter‐feeders and omnivorous trophic groups had a higher contribution to increasing the functional diversity of zooplankton than medium‐sized filter‐feeders in both deep and shallow lakes. FRic and FEve were higher in deep lakes than in shallow lakes. Shallow lakes were highly vulnerable to species loss and functional diversity was modulated by environmental changes and metal pollution.

Tropical shallow lakes impacted by mining tailings should receive particular attention in conservation plans, as a consequence of their high level of pollutant retention in comparison with deep lakes. In addition, we highlight the importance of using a functional approach to better understand the ecosystem changes resulting from the impacts of mine tailings on aquatic environments.
‘DAS JUNGE DEUTSCHLAND INTERESSIRT MICH SEHRʼ: ROSA MARIA ASSING UND DER GENERATIONELLE UMBRUCH UM 1830 IM SPIEGEL IHRER BRIEFE UND DIARISTIK AUS DER SAMMLUNG VARNHAGEN
Authors: Zarychta Paweł
Published: May 2024

Rosa Maria Assing, born in 1783, belonged to a generation of female authors whose prominence and influence began to wane around 1830. As hostess of an important literary salon in Hamburg, she had had contact with numerous authors of the younger generation since the 1820s, including Heinrich Heine, Karl Gutzkow, Theodor Mundt and Ludwig Wihl. At the same time, she remained faithful to her old literary friends, including the representatives of the so‐called Swabian School of Poets, primarily Ludwig Uhland and Justinus Kerner. This article traces Assing's contact with authors associated with the ‘Vormärz’ and ‘Young Germany’, focusing on her friendship with Heinrich Heine. This leads to conclusions concerning not only the relationship between older and younger contributors to the literary scene of the time but also the generational shift towards the ‘Vormärz’ in general.
Engaged fatherhood and new models of “nurturing care”: Lessons learnt from Austria, Italy, Lithuania and Portugal
Authors: Moura Tatiana , Mehaffey Rachel , Lubbock Annina , Pilinkaite Sotirovic Vilana , Kirchengast Anna , do Carmo Milena , Rolino Tiago , Deriu Marco , Santoro Andrea , Jankauskaite Margarita , Mascarenhas Marta
Published: May 2024

Research on gender‐based violence highlights the need to engage men in prevention work through social change programs that present care as a powerful antidote to violence. Implementation of such programs worldwide provides many examples of how education and support for fathers and fathers‐to‐be can promote healthy masculinities and relationships with an intimate partner and their children. This article aims to explore the findings and lessons learned from the pilot of the European Union‐funded Promotion, Awareness Raising and Engagement of men in Nurture Transformations (PARENT) project (PARENT) which sought to develop and pilot curricula adapted from the internationally tested Program P methodology. The PARENT pilot worked in four European countries to provide training activities for social, educational, and health professionals, as well as education groups for fathers and parents, with the overarching goal of preventing domestic violence through the promotion of engaged fatherhood. By reporting the results from mixed‐methods impact evaluations of pilot programs conducted with professionals and parents, this article discusses how gender‐synchronous father‐focused training can contribute to a shift toward increased positive engagement of fathers during the first 1000 days of a child's life. The article conveys the pilot's promising impact on the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of professionals and parents, and it examines some of the key contextual factors, limitations, and implementation approaches that plausibly contributed to the PARENT pilot outcomes, with the aim to formulate useful considerations for future scale‐up efforts or the future implementation of similar programs to engage fathers in nurturing care and violence prevention.