bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rural women's voices revealing perceptions about decisions on where to give birth in Gabon: A qualitative study
Authors: Horikoshi Haruka , Horiuchi Shigeko
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to clarify the perceptions of rural women about their decisions on where to give birth in Gabon.

Method

This study used a qualitative descriptive design using semi‐structured interviews. Study participants were women at least 20 years old and had given birth within the past 2 years. The study area was approximately 25–30 km from the capital of Gabon. Data collection was conducted between May and mid‐July 2023. The interview guide was based on the Ottawa Decision Support Framework (ODSF) 2020 model. The data obtained were analyzed using content analysis for “perceptions in deciding the place of birth.”

Results

A total of 18 women participated in the study. Six categories of reasons were identified for women's choice of birth location: (1) childbirth environment with physical safety; (2) childbirth environment with psychological safety; (3) physical accessibility; (4) affordable health facilities; (5) concerns about homebirth risks; and (6) unpleasant aspects of the hospital. Items (1)–(4) were the reasons for actively choosing the hospital as a birth location, whereas items (5) and (6) were the reasons for avoiding a place to give birth.

Conclusions

Women positively perceived and chose facilities that offer physical and mental safety, geographic accessibility, and affordable costs. Conversely, an environment where the safety of the mother and the child is threatened and the lack of respectful maternity care by the medical staff served as deterrents to facility use.
Cross‐species translational paradigms for assessing positive valence system as defined by the RDoC matrix
Authors: Dexter Tyler D. , Roberts Benjamin Z. , Ayoub Samantha M. , Noback Michael , Barnes Samuel A. , Young Jared W.
Published: October 2024

Functions associated with processing reward‐related information are fundamental drivers of motivation, learning, and goal‐directed behavior. Such functions have been classified as the positive valence system under the Research Domain and Criteria (RDoC) criteria and are negatively impacted across a range of psychiatric disorders and mental illnesses. The positive valence system is composed of three comprehensive categories containing related but dissociable functions that are organized into either Reward Responsiveness, Reward Learning, or Reward Valuation. The presence of overlapping behavioral dysfunction across diagnostic mental disorders is in‐part what motivated the RDoC initiative, which emphasized that the study of mental illness focus on investigating relevant behavior and cognitive functions and their underlying mechanisms, rather than separating efforts on diagnostic categories (i.e., transdiagnostic). Moreover, the RDoC approach is well‐suited for preclinical neuroscience research, as the rise in genetic toolboxes and associated neurotechnologies enables researchers to probe specific cellular targets with high specificity. Thus, there is an opportunity to dissect whether behaviors and cognitive functions are supported by shared or distinct neural mechanisms. For preclinical research to effectively inform our understandings of human behavior however, the cognitive and behavioral paradigms should have predictive, neurobiological, and pharmacological predictive validity to the human test. Touchscreen‐based testing systems provide a further advantage for this endeavor enabling tasks to be presented to animals using the same media and task design as in humans. Here, we outline the primary categories of the positive valence system and review the work that has been done cross‐species to investigate the neurobiology and neurochemistry underlying reward‐related functioning. Additionally, we provide clinical tasks outlined by RDoC, along with validity and/or need for further validation for analogous rodent paradigms with a focus on implementing the touchscreen‐based cognitive testing systems.

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Adolescent social stress alters the role of orexin innervation in the hindbrain in male hamsters
Authors: Moran Kevin M. , Enstrom Ava Elana , Jarrell Leah , Khashchuluun Misheel , Tran Anna , Delville Yvon
Published: October 2024

Juvenile male hamsters exposed to chronic social stress eat more, gain weight, and have larger fat pads. The purpose of the present study was to address possible changes in food hoarding and orexin/hypocretin innervation in response to social stress. Male hamsters in early adolescence were exposed to a resident‐intruder social stress paradigm or control condition daily for 2 weeks. Metabolism‐related physiological measures and behaviors were tracked, and brains were immunocytochemically labeled for orexin‐A. Our data confirm our previous observations on appetite, weight gain, and obesity, and showed a strong trend toward enhanced food hoarding as in prior studies. In addition, there were no statistically significant differences in orexin innervation in any brain area analyzed. However, unique correlation patterns were observed between orexin innervation and appetite or metabolic outcome. In particular, opposite correlations were observed between groups within the dorsal raphe nucleus, lateral parabrachial nucleus, and nucleus of the solitary tract. These opposite patterns of correlations suggest chronic social stress causes site‐specific alterations in synaptic activity in relation with these behaviors.
Prenatal growth patterns of the upper jaw complex with implications for laryngeal echolocation in bats
Authors: Pommery Yannick , Koyabu Daisuke , Meguro Fumiya , Tu Vuong Tan , Ngamprasertwong Thongchai , Wannaprasert Thanakul , Nojiri Taro , Wilson Laura A. B.
Published: October 2024

Craniofacial morphology is extremely diversified within bat phylogeny, however growth and development of the palate in bats remains unstudied. The formation of both midline and bilateral orofacial clefts in laryngeally echolocating bats, morphologically similar to the syndromic and non‐syndromic cleft palate in humans, are not well understood. Developmental series of prenatal samples (n = 128) and adults (n = 10) of eight bat species (two pteropodids, four rhinolophoids, and two yangochiropterans), and two non‐bat mammals (Mus musculus and Erinaceus amurensis), were CT‐scanned and cranial bones forming the upper jaw complex were three‐dimensionally visualised to assess whether differences in palate development can be observed across bat phylogeny. Volumetric data of bones composing the upper jaw complex were measured to quantify palate growth. The premaxilla is relatively reduced in bats compared to other mammals and its shape is heterogeneous depending on the presence and type of orofacial cleft across bat phylogeny. The palatine process of premaxillary bones is lacking in pteropodids and yangochiropterans, whereas the premaxilla is a mobile structure which is only in contact caudally with the maxilla by a fibrous membrane or suture in rhinolophoids. In all bats, maxillary bones progressively extend caudally and palatine bones, in some cases split into three branches, extend caudally so that they are completely fused to another one medially prior to the birth. Ossification of the vomer and fusion of the maxillary and palatine bones occur earlier in rhinolophoids than in pteropodids and yangochiropterans. The vomer ossifies bilaterally from two different ossification centres in yangochiropterans, which is uncommon in other bats and non‐bat mammals. Analysis of ontogenetic allometric trajectories of the upper jaw complex revealed faster development of maxillary, vomer, and palatine bones in yangochiropterans compared to other bats, especially rhinolophoids. Ancestral state reconstruction revealed that yangochiropterans have a higher magnitude of change in ossification rate compared to other bats and E. amurensis a lower magnitude compared to M. musculus and bats. This study provides new evidence of heterochronic shifts in craniofacial development and growth across bat phylogeny that can improve understanding of the developmental differences characterising nasal and oral emission strategies.
Validation of a Photonumeric Scale for Evaluation of Telangiectasia in Rosacea
Authors: Nguyen Lynhda , Seeber Nikolaus , Baron Jens M. , Hammes Stefan , Karsai Syrus , Fischer Tanja C. , Imhof Laurence , Kautz Gerd , Sattler Sonja , Deussing Maximilian , Dierckxsens Cathy , Thiem Alexander , Drosos Zacharias , Grosse‐Buening Stephan , Ganjuur Nomun , Kampmann Anna‐Sophie , May Johanna K. , Schneider Stefan W. , Kerscher Martina , Herberger Katharina
Published: October 2024

Background

Telangiectasia is a prominent feature of rosacea leading to a high demand for effective treatment. To ensure consistent clinical and scientific evaluations and assess treatment response accurately, standardized assessment tools are necessary for grading the severity of telangiectasia. However, no validated grading scales for this condition are currently available.

Aim

To develop and validate a photonumeric scale for assessing the severity of telangiectasia in rosacea patients.

Methods

The five‐point photonumeric Telangiectasia in Rosacea Severity Assessment (TRoSA) scale was developed for the severity of telangiectasia in rosacea. Sixteen experts participated in the validation process, evaluating 50 images of rosacea patients in two rounds. Interrater and intrarater reliability were analyzed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and weighted kappa, respectively.

Results

Interrater reliability was found to be “almost perfect” in both validation rounds (Round 1: ICC 0.847; Round 2: ICC 0.828). The mean weighted kappa indicated “substantial” intrarater reliability between the two rounds with a weighted kappa of 0.719. A bubble plot of the two rounds illustrated a diagonal order, confirming the consistency of the intrarater agreement.

Conclusions

The TRoSA scale demonstrated high interrater and intrarater reliability indicating that it is a consistent and reproducible tool for grading the severity of telangiectasia in rosacea. This scale can standardize clinical assessments, assisting in diagnosis, treatment planning, and evaluation of therapeutic efficacy.
SSA‐ZP on Scalp Seborrheic Dermatitis: Regulating Sebum Levels and Scalp Barrier
Authors: Wang Qi , Liu Yufang , Ye Congxiu , Shen Jing , Lin Jiahui , Du Yunfan , Li Lintong , Huang Xiaowen , Zheng Yue
Published: October 2024

Background

The occurrence of scalp seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is closely related to the production of sebum and scalp barrier function. Supramolecular salicylic acid has the keratolytic and anti‐inflammatory properties, and zinc pyrithione is an antifungal drug delivered as a microparticle to skin epithelia.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of 2% supramolecular salicylic acid (SSA) combined with 0.8% zinc pyrithione conditioner (SSA‐ZP) in treating scalp SD focusing on key outcome measures including sebum levels and scalp barrier function.

Methods

Five patients with mild to moderate scalp SD were included in the 2‐week self‐controlled prospective study, receiving daily SSA‐ZP treatment. Evaluation on days 0, 7, and 14 included dermoscopy, the adherent scalp flaking scale (ASFS), sebum level, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), pH, and stratum corneum hydration. We also performed the fungal count across specific scalp regions, such as the left and right sides of the forehead, the top of the head, and the occiput.

Results

Five patients with mild to moderate scalp SD participated in this study. After 2 weeks of SSA‐ZP treatment, significant reductions in ASFS scores, sebum levels, and fungal count were observed, alongside improvements in TEWL and pH values across multiple scalp regions. Moreover, there was no difference in the hydration of stratum corneum.

Conclusion

SSA‐ZP demonstrated efficacy in treating scalp SD without adverse effects, suggesting its potential as a first‐line treatment option. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow‐up periods is warranted to validate these findings.
The Effect of Perceptions of Evidence‐Based Practice on Endotracheal Cuff Pressure Management in Critical Care Nurses: A Correlational Cross‐Sectional Multicentre Study
Authors: Budak Ertürk Elif , Çevik Banu , Kiliç Gülşen , Çelikateş Nevin , Fulser Berrak
Published: October 2024

Aims

This correlational cross‐sectional multicentre study aims to achieve two objectives. Firstly, to assess nurses' knowledge and practice of endotracheal cuff pressure management. Secondly, to examine the relationship between endotracheal cuff pressure management knowledge and evidence‐based practice leadership and work environment.

Design

A correlational cross‐sectional multicentre study design.

Methods

This study was conducted among 144 intensive care nurses in Turkey. Data collection included descriptive characteristics and cuff pressure management of nurses, the Evidence‐Based Practice Leadership Scale and Evidence‐Based Practice Work Environment Scale. Descriptive statistics, chi‐square test, Pearson correlation and receiver operating characteristics analysis were conducted. A STROBE checklist was the reporting guide for this study.

Results

The success status of nurses in terms of knowledge related to cuff pressure was found significantly different according to the type of intensive care unit working in and the status of receiving training on evidence‐based practice. A positive, strong relationship was found between nurses' mean scores on the Evidence‐Based Practice Leadership Scale and the Work Environment Scale. There was a very weak positive correlation between the mean scores of the Evidence‐Based Practice Leadership Scale and the cuff pressure management.

Conclusion

Adherence by nurses to current evidence‐based practice for cuff pressure monitoring is essential for safe patient care and improved quality of care. It is recommended to provide both a supportive working environment and training programmes for intensive care nurses to perform cuff pressure management in line with evidence‐based practice.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Providing educational programs, an appropriate clinical environment, support from health managers and access to appropriate tools are important considerations in increasing the knowledge and skills of intensive care nurses to effectively monitor and manage cuff pressure.

Reporting Method

Our study complies with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) Checklist: cross‐sectional studies.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Equilibrium Data Mining and Data Abundance
Authors: DUGAST JÉRÔME , FOUCAULT THIERRY
Published: October 2024

We study theoretically how the proliferation of new data (“data abundance”) affects the allocation of capital between quantitative and nonquantitative asset managers (“data miners” and “experts”), their performance, and price informativeness. Data miners search for predictors of asset payoffs and select those with a sufficiently high precision. Data abundance raises the precision of the best predictors, but it can induce data miners to search less intensively for high‐precision signals. In this case, their performance becomes more dispersed and they receive less capital. Nevertheless, data abundance always raises price informativeness and can therefore reduce asset managers' average performance.
Applying the FRAME for Systematic Adaptation of a State Health Curriculum to Enhance Physical Activity and Family Engagement
Authors: Schwartz Anna , Eisman Andria B. , Gagliardi Lisa Jo , Hasson Rebecca E.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

A systematic adaptation of an evidence‐based state health curriculum (Michigan Model for Health™, MMH) was created to enhance physical activity and family engagement materials but retain the core functional elements of the curriculum.

METHODS

The Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications‐Enhanced (FRAME) was used to document the adaptation, which used materials from an evidence‐informed physical activity program (Interrupting Prolonged sitting with ACTivity, InPACT). Acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility, and perceived value of the adaptation were assessed by key stakeholders, regional school health coordinators (HCs).

RESULTS

A planned, fidelity‐consistent adaptation was created in which InPACT resources were integrated into the MMH curriculum, with recommended integrations packaged in a supplemental guide. Training was modified as appropriate. The guide had high acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility among HCs (n = 17), and 71% of HCs (n = 24) indicated that it had really strong value.

CONCLUSIONS

Next steps involve implementing the adapted curriculum and evaluating its effects on family engagement, youth physical activity levels, and overall curriculum effectiveness.
Lineage‐specific duplication of a CYCLOIDEA2 gene and the diversification of capitula in the tribe Anthemideae (Asteraceae)
Authors: Rong Yu‐Lin , Niu Chen‐Yu , Zhang Chu‐Jie , Guo Yan‐Ping , Rao Guang‐Yuan
Published: October 2024

Gene duplications have contributed to the innovation of morphological traits during plant evolution. An outstanding example is the role of CYCLOIDEA2 (CYC2) gene duplications in the formation of the complex structure of Asteraceae capitula. Previous studies have shown that Chrysanthemum lavandulifolium (Fischer ex Trautv.) Makino and a few other species of the Asteraceae harbor two copies of CYC2e. Here, we identified a lineage‐specific CYC2e duplication event at the root of the phylogeny of the tribe Anthemideae by analyzing the evolutionary history of CYC2 genes across the Asteraceae. Although the gene expression patterns of CYC2e1 and CYC2e2 were similar in most of floral organs, CYC2e1 promoted ligule elongation by promoting cell expansion, whereas CYC2e2 showed a weak inhibiting effect on the ray‐floret development, and overexpression of CYC2e2 resulted in the maldevelopment of stamens in disc florets. These results indicated differentiated functions of CYC2e1 and CYC2e2 in the capitulum development of the Anthemideae. Given the previous data that identified CYC2g and CYC2d as main regulators in ligule morphogenesis, we comparatively analyzed 10 Asteraceae genomic data, and identified tandem arrays of CYC2g, CYC2d, and CYC2e. We further investigated the regulatory relationships between CYC2g/CYC2d and CYC2e genes, and found that CYC2g can activate the expression of CYC2e1. The findings of this study elucidate the synergistic roles of CYC2 genes in regulating the formation of the Asteraceae capitula and enhance understanding of the mechanism of duplicated gene retention during plant evolution.
Harnessing microbes as sun cream against high light stress
Authors: Villano Filippo , Balestrini Raffaella , Nerva Luca , Chitarra Walter
Published: October 2024

Plants rely on solar energy for growth through photosynthesis, yet excessive light intensity can induce physiological damage. Despite the considerable harm, inadequate attention has been directed toward understanding how plant‐associated microorganisms mitigate this stress, and the impact of high light intensity on plant microbial communities remains underexplored. Through this Viewpoint, we aim to highlight the potential of microbial communities to enhance plant resilience and understand how light stress can shape plant microbiome. A full understanding of these dynamics is essential to design strategies that take advantage of microbial assistance to plants under light stress and to effectively manage the impact of changing light conditions on plant–microbe interactions.
Water, not carbon, drives drought‐constraints on stem terpene defense against simulated bark beetle attack in Pinus edulis
Authors: Malone Shealyn C. , Thompson R. Alex , Chow Pak S. , de Oliveira Celso R. , Landhäusser Simon M. , Six Diana L. , McCulloh Katherine A. , Adams Henry D. , Trowbridge Amy M.
Published: October 2024

Drought predisposes forest trees to bark beetle‐induced mortality, but the physiological mechanisms remain unclear. While drought‐induced water and carbon limitations have been implicated in defensive failure and tree susceptibility, evidence demonstrating how these factors interact is scarce.

We withheld water from mature, potted Pinus edulis and subsequently applied a double‐stem girdle to inhibit carbohydrate transport from the crown and roots. Within this isolated segment we then elicited a defense response by inoculating trees with a bark beetle‐fungal symbiont (Ophiostoma sp.). We quantified local mono‐ and sesquiterpenes (MST), nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC), and pressure potential of the inner bark.

Both drought‐stressed and watered trees had similar NSC concentrations just before inoculation and depleted NSC similarly following inoculation, yet MST induction (i.e. increased concentration and altered composition) was constrained only in drought‐stressed trees. Thus, NSC consumption was largely unrelated to de novo MST synthesis. Instead, stoichiometric calculations show that induction originated largely from stored resin. Watered trees experiencing higher pressure potentials consistently induced higher MST concentrations.

We demonstrate the importance of preformed resin toward an induced MST response in a semi‐arid conifer where drought‐constraints on defense occurred through biophysical limitations (i.e. reduced turgor hindering resin transport) rather than through substrate limitation.
Ageing‐Related Macrophage Polarisation in the Trigeminal Ganglion Enhances Incisional Intraoral Pain
Authors: Urata Kentaro , Oto Tatsuki , Hayashi Yoshinori , Hitomi Suzuro , Ikeda Takayuki , Iwata Koichi , Iinuma Toshimitsu , Shinoda Masamichi
Published: October 2024

Objective

Although macrophage polarisation in the trigeminal ganglion (TG) is crucial in orofacial pain hypersensitivity, the effect of ageing‐related changes and their involvement in intra‐oral nociception remains unclear. We assessed the effect of ageing‐related macrophage polarisation in TG on intra‐oral mechanical pain hypersensitivity following palatal mucosal incision using senescence‐accelerated mice (SAM)‐prone8 (SAMP8) and SAM‐resistant 1 (SAMR1).

Materials and Methods

Mechanical head‐withdrawal reflex threshold (MHWRT) of the palatal mucosa was measured for 21 days after palatal mucosal incision. On days 3 and 14, the abundance of Iba‐1‐immunoreactive (IR) cells, CD11c‐IR cells (pro‐inflammatory macrophages (M1)), C‐C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2)‐IR M1‐macrophages, CD206‐IR cells (anti‐inflammatory macrophages (M2)) and transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β)‐IR M2‐macrophages in the TG was analysed. The effect of continuous intra‐TG administration of CCL2‐neutralising antibody or recombinant‐CCL2 on MHWRT was examined.

Results

Incision‐induced decrease in MHWRT was enhanced in SAMP8 compared with that in SAMR1. On days 3 and 14, the number of CCL2‐IR M1‐macrophages in TG was increased in SAMP8 compared with that in SAMR1. CCL2‐neutralising antibody suppressed, whereas recombinant‐CCL2 increased pain hypersensitivity in SAMP8.

Conclusions

Mechanical pain hypersensitivity after oral mucosal injury is potentiated and sustained by age‐related enhancement of CCL2 signalling via M1‐macrophage hyperactivation in TG.
CaWRKY20 Negatively Regulates Plant Resistance to Colletotrichum scovillei in Pepper
Authors: Li Yang , Ma Xiao , Xiao Luo‐Dan , Yu Ya‐Nan , Gong Zhen‐Hui
Published: October 2024

Chili anthracnose, a fungal disease caused by Colletotrichum scovillei, is among the most devastating diseases affecting pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). Although WRKY transcription factors play important roles in plant immunity, it is unknown how WRKY gene family members contribute to pepper plant resistance to C. scovillei. Here, CaWRKY20 was found to negatively regulate pepper resistance to C. scovillei, which was demonstrated by virus‐induced gene silencing and transient overexpression in pepper. Moreover, overexpression of CaWRKY20 enhanced susceptibility to C. scovillei in tomato. Additionally, our findings demonstrated that CaWRKY20 can indirectly regulate the expression of salicylic acid (SA)‐related defense genes (CaPR1, CaPR10 and CaSAR8.2) as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐scavenging enzyme genes (CaCAT, CaPOD and CaSOD) in response to C. scovillei. In addition, CaWRKY20 was found to interact with CaMIEL1 in the nucleus to regulate the defense response to C. scovillei in pepper. Furthermore, CaWRKY20 directly bound to the W‐box in the promoter of SYSTEMIC ACQUIRED RESISTANCE DEFICIENT 1 (CaSARD1) and suppressed its expression, resulting in reduced resistance to C. scovillei. These results will clarify the mechanism by which WRKY transcription factors are involved in pepper disease resistance and can thus facilitate molecular breeding for anthracnose‐resistant varieties.
Bay 11‐7082, an NF‐κB Inhibitor, Prevents Post‐Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation Through Inhibition of Inflammation and Melanogenesis
Authors: Moon Juwon , Moon Ik Jun , Hyun Hoyong , Yoo Jae Min , Bang Seung Hyun , Song Youngsup , Chang Sung Eun
Published: October 2024

Post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a very common disorder of cutaneous hyperpigmentation, which poses a persistent management challenge in the fields of dermatology and esthetics. This study was designed to explore the anti‐melanogenic and anti‐inflammatory effects of Bay 11‐7082, an NF‐κB inhibitor, using small‐molecule screening, to determine its potential application for PIH prevention. The molecular mechanisms were investigated in vitro and ex vivo in epidermis‐humanized mice using melanin content, RT‐PCR, and immunoblotting. Bay 11‐7082 suppressed proinflammatory cytokines and ameliorated 2,4‐dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)‐induced contact dermatitis on day 15. The suppression of melanin synthesis by Bay 11‐7082 was attributed to the reduction of MITF, which was induced by extracellular signal‐regulated kinase activation. Bay 11‐7082 reduced epidermal melanin accumulation in UVB‐stimulated ex vivo human epidermis as well as in the ear and tail skin of K14‐stem cell factor (SCF) transgenic mice. Topical administration of Bay 11‐7082 improved PIH on day 35 in the post‐DNFB dorsal skin of K14‐SCF transgenic mice. In conclusion, Bay 11‐7082 can be considered a promising candidate for the development of a preventive topical agent for PIH.
The Impact of Reduced Immunosuppression on Alloimmunity: A Retrospective Study of Pediatric Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Gramkow Ann‐Maria , Baatrup Johanne H. , Gramkow Emilie T. , Koefoed‐Nielsen Pernille , Wittenhagen Per , Thiesson Helle C.
Published: October 2024

Background

Kidney transplantation is the best treatment for end‐stage kidney disease but requires immunosuppressive medications, which have significant side effects. Many pediatric recipients experience these side effects, leading to dosage reductions, which potentially increase the risk of alloimmunity. We aimed to describe the alteration in immunosuppressive medication, explore the reasons for the reductions, and assess the potential impact on alloimmunity.

Method

Data from 49 pediatric kidney transplant recipients receiving an allograft from 2009 to 2020 were retrospectively studied. The recipients were screened for HLA antibodies after the transplantation.

Results

The median age of recipients was 11 years (IQR 8), with a median follow‐up of 5 years (IQR 5). Eighty percent of the transplantations were corticosteroid‐free. During follow‐up, 11% developed de novo donor‐specific antibodies (dnDSA), and 60% had detectable HLA antibodies. The 1‐year rejection rate was 4%. Immunosuppressive medication was altered substantially in most recipients, resulting in 72% being on mono‐ or dual therapy with a reduced mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) dosage by the end of the first posttransplant year. The median MMF dose was nearly half of the intended. Tacrolimus levels were maintained close to the target of 5 ng/mL. No association was found between reduced immunosuppression and dnDSA or rejections. Reductions were primarily due to MMF‐related side effects: leukopenia in 77%, gastrointestinal issues in 34%, and infections with Epstein–Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and BK polyomavirus in 49%.

Conclusions

Reduced MMF with a sufficient trough tacrolimus level in a population of mainly corticosteroid‐free pediatric kidney transplant recipients did not lead to unacceptable alloimmunity.
Differential expression of hemolymph proteins in wild bumblebees provides insights into species‐specific impacts of heat stress
Authors: Przybyla Kimberly , Martinet Baptiste , Michez Denis , Bocquet Michel , Askri Dalel , Bulet Philippe
Published: October 2024

Wildlife faces an increasing threat from extreme climatic events, such as heatwaves, which can have a severe impact on various species, including crucial pollinators like bumblebees. Bumblebees are cold‐adapted and heterothermic, possessing the ability to regulate their internal temperature. The impact of heat stress seems species specific in bumblebees. While most species are impacted, some bumblebee species manage to survive, potentially by employing physiological mechanisms, including the modulation of their protein profile (e.g. Heat Shock Proteins). However, there is limited understanding of how their protein profiles are associated with heat exposure. In this study, we examined the global variation in the protein profile of males from two bumblebee species sampled in the wild: the heat‐tolerant Bombus terrestris and the heat‐sensitive Bombus magnus. After subjecting them to heat stupor at 40°C in controlled condition, it was observed that nearly all B. terrestris survived the stress, while over 50% of B. magnus individuals succumbed to the heat exposure. Through off‐gel bottom‐up proteomics and LC–MS/MS analysis of the hemolymph proteome, we identified 164 proteins in both species with a large part of differentially expressed proteins after heat exposure. Additionally, quantitative analysis of fat bodies revealed that the relative mass was stable in B. terrestris, while it was significantly lower in B. magnus exposed to heat stress. Our data suggest that compared with B. magnus, B. terrestris displays a higher adaptability of its hemolymph proteome in response to heat stress. This adaptability could be a key factor contributing to the high physiological resistance of B. terrestris and its ability to adapt to new, stressful environments expected due to climate change. Understanding these mechanisms of protein regulation in bumblebees could provide valuable insights into their resilience and vulnerability facing environmental stresses.
Can overarching rules and coordination in polycentric governance help achieve pre‐identified institutional goals over time? Evidence from farmland governance in southeastern France
Authors: Kassis Grâce , Bertrand Nathalie
Published: October 2024

The question of the performance of polycentric governance over time is insufficiently addressed in the literature. By performance, we refer to the ability of polycentric governance actors to design rules and engage in coordination processes that allow them to achieve their goals. Through an institutional analysis, this paper seeks to answer a question that remains unresolved in the field, namely the effectiveness of the overarching set of rules and coordination relationships in their ability to drive institutional and organizational change in polycentric governance processes. To this end, we conduct an in‐depth case study of farmland governance in southeastern France. Through the attributes of polycentric governance, we examine the changes brought about by the goal of local food supply comparing it with other historical goals such as farmland preservation. We show that farmland governance is characterized by an institutional mismatch that prevents its actors from moving closer to the objective of local food supply. We argue that the evolution of farmland governance comes down to organizational change that does not lead to an evolution of rules‐in‐use. We discuss this result in light of the findings of the literature on polycentric governance and its implications for public policy.
Rogue wave patterns associated with Adler–Moser polynomials featuring multiple roots in the nonlinear Schrödinger equation
Authors: Lin Huian , Ling Liming
Published: October 2024

In this work, we analyze the asymptotic behaviors of high‐order rogue wave solutions with multiple large parameters and discover novel rogue wave patterns, including modified claw‐like, one triple root (OTR)‐type, modified OTR‐type, two triple roots (TTR)‐type, semimodified TTR‐type, and modified TTR‐type patterns. A correlation is established between these rogue wave patterns and the root structures of the Adler–Moser polynomials with multiple roots. At the positions in the ‐plane corresponding to simple roots of the Adler–Moser polynomials, these high‐order rogue wave patterns asymptotically approach first‐order rogue waves. At the positions in the ‐plane corresponding to multiple roots of the Adler–Moser polynomials, these rogue wave patterns asymptotically tend toward lower‐order fundamental rogue waves, dispersed first‐order rogue waves, or mixed structures of these rogue waves. These structures are related to the root structures of special Adler–Moser polynomials with new free parameters, such as the Yablonskii–Vorob'ev polynomial hierarchy, among others. Notably, the positions of the fundamental lower‐order rogue waves or mixed structures in these rogue wave patterns can be controlled freely under specific conditions.
Arabidopsis DREB26/ERF12 and its close relatives regulate cuticular wax biosynthesis under drought stress condition
Authors: Urano Kaoru , Oshima Yoshimi , Ishikawa Toshiki , Kajino Takuma , Sakamoto Shingo , Sato Mayuko , Toyooka Kiminori , Fujita Miki , Kawai‐Yamada Maki , Taji Teruaki , Maruyama Kyonoshin , Yamaguchi‐Shinozaki Kazuko , Shinozaki Kazuo
Published: October 2024

Land plants have evolved a hydrophobic cuticle on the surface of aerial organs as an adaptation to ensure survival in terrestrial environments. Cuticle is mainly composed of lipids, namely cutin and intracuticular wax, with epicuticular wax deposited on plant surface. The composition and permeability of cuticle have a large influence on its ability to protect plants against drought stress. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying cuticular wax biosynthesis in response to drought stress have not been fully elucidated. Here, we identified three AP2/ERF transcription factors (DREB26/ERF12, ERF13 and ERF14) involved in the regulation of water permeability of the plant surface. Transmission electron microscopy revealed thicker cuticle on the leaves of DREB26‐overexpressing (DREB26OX) plants, and thinner cuticle on the leaves of transgenic plants expressing SRDX repression domain‐fused DREB26 (DREB26SR). Genes involved in cuticular wax formation were upregulated in DREB26OX and downregulated in DREB26SR. The levels of very‐long chain (VLC) alkanes, which are a major wax component, increased in DREB26OX leaves and decreased in DREB26SR leaves. Under dehydration stress, water loss was reduced in DREB26OX and increased in DREB26SR. The erf12/13/14 triple mutant showed delayed growth, decreased leaf water content, and reduced drought‐inducible VLC alkane accumulation. Taken together, our results indicate that the DREB26/ERF12 and its closed family members, ERF13 and ERF14, play an important role in cuticular wax biosynthesis in response to drought stress. The complex transcriptional cascade involved in the regulation of cuticular wax biosynthesis under drought stress conditions is discussed.
From Social Media to Public Health: The Role of Identity Recognition in Post-Pandemic Information Dissemination
Authors: Ren Changning , Ghazali Akmar Hayati Ahmad , Kamarudin Syafila
Published: October 2024

With social media becoming an essential platform for public health information communication, the impact of identity on the effectiveness of information dissemination in social media has received increasing attention. This study aimed to explore the relationship between identity factors in social media and the effectiveness of public health news dissemination. Different social media user identities have different effects and concerns on public information communication, and the identity backgrounds of bloggers have different perspectives on public health information communication. The findings help to identify the effects of different identities in public health communication and provide possible research ideas and perspectives for future researchers.
Ageing leads to selective type II myofibre deterioration and denervation independent of reinnervative capacity in human skeletal muscle
Authors: Horwath Oscar , Moberg Marcus , Edman Sebastian , Philp Andrew , Apró William
Published: October 2024

Age‐related loss of muscle mass and function is underpinned by changes at the myocellular level. However, our understanding of the aged muscle phenotype might be confounded by factors secondary to ageing per se, such as inactivity and adiposity. Here, using healthy, lean, recreationally active, older men, we investigated the impact of ageing on myocellular properties in skeletal muscle. Muscle biopsies were obtained from young men (22 ± 3 years, n = 10) and older men (69 ± 3 years, n = 11) matched for health status, activity level and body mass index. Immunofluorescence was used to assess myofibre composition, morphology (size and shape), capillarization, the content of satellite cells and myonuclei, the spatial relationship between satellite cells and capillaries, denervation and myofibre grouping. Compared with young muscle, aged muscle contained 53% more type I myofibres, in addition to smaller (−32%) and misshapen (3%) type II myofibres (P < 0.05). Aged muscle manifested fewer capillaries (−29%) and satellite cells (−38%) surrounding type II myofibres (P < 0.05); however, the spatial relationship between these two remained intact. The proportion of denervated myofibres was ∼2.6‐fold higher in old than young muscle (P < 0.05). Aged muscle had more grouped type I myofibres (∼18‐fold), primarily driven by increased size of existing groups rather than increased group frequency (P < 0.05). Aged muscle displayed selective deterioration of type II myofibres alongside increased denervation and myofibre grouping. These data are key to understanding the cellular basis of age‐related muscle decline and reveal a pressing need to fine‐tune strategies to preserve type II myofibres and innervation status in ageing populations.
Neuromuscular mechanisms for the fast decline in rate of force development with muscle disuse – a narrative review
Authors: Ruggiero Luca , Gruber Markus
Published: October 2024

The removal of skeletal muscle tension (unloading or disuse) is followed by many changes in the neuromuscular system, including muscle atrophy and loss of isometric maximal strength (measured by maximal force,Fmax). Explosive strength, i.e. the ability to develop the highest force in the shortest possible time, to maximise rate of force development (RFD), is a fundamental neuromuscular capability, often more functionally relevant than maximal muscle strength. In the present review, we discuss data from studies that looked at the effect of muscle unloading on isometric maximalversusexplosive strength. We present evidence that muscle unloading yields a greater decline in explosive relative to maximal strength. The longer the unloading duration, the smaller the difference between the decline in the two measures. Potential mechanisms that may explain the greater decline in measures of RFD relative toFmaxafter unloading are higher recruitment thresholds and lower firing rates of motor units, slower twitch kinetics, impaired excitation‐contraction coupling, and decreased tendon stiffness. Using a Hill‐type force model, we showed that this ensemble of adaptations minimises the loss of force production at submaximal contraction intensities, at the expense of a disproportionately lower RFD. With regard to the high functional relevance of RFD on one hand, and the boosted detrimental effects of inactivity on RFD on the other hand, it seems crucial to implement specific exercises targeting explosive strength in populations that experience muscle disuse over a longer time.

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The COVID Pandemic Worsened Physical Activity Disproportionately in Frailer Adults: A Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging
Authors: O’Brien Myles , Mayo Andrea , Theou Olga
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Frailty is associated with increased hospitalization and mortality and may be exacerbated with physical inactivity. The COVID-19 pandemic has heterogeneously impacted peoples’ physical activity level, but the impact on the frail population is unclear. Objective: The objective of this study is to test the hypothesis that higher frailty levels were associated with worse changes in physical activity, ability to move around the home, and do housework during the pandemic. Methods: We included 23,303 Canadians (age: 69.1 ± 9.5 years, 53% females) who participated in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging COVID-19 Questionnaire study. Frailty prior to the pandemic (follow-up 1: 2015–2018) was measured via 52-item frailty index and grouped into 0.00–0.05, 0.05–0.10, 0.10–0.20, and >0.20 scores. Participants were asked whether they changed their levels of physical activity, ability to move at home, and ability to do housework during the pandemic. Results: The average frailty level was 0.09 ± 0.06. Compared with the lowest frailty group, participants with frailty levels >0.20 reported worse physical activity (17% vs. 45%), worse ability to move at home (3% vs. 26%), and perform housework (3% vs. 27%). Covariate-adjusted logistic regression models demonstrated that higher frailty level was associated with a greater odds of reporting worse physical activity (reference: 0.00–0.05; odds ratio for frailty index >0.20:4.03, 95% confidence interval [3.33, 4.87]), worse ability to move in home (odds ratio  = 11.16, 95% confidence interval [8.28, 15.03]), and worse ability doing housework (odds ratio  = 12.58, 95% confidence interval [9.24, 17.13]). Conclusions: The adverse changes in physical activity levels and ability to move at home among frail older adults during the pandemic document the need for strategies to help vulnerable populations move more.
Association Between Physical Activity and Performance in Skill Learning Among Older Adults Based on Cognitive Function
Authors: Kasahara Satoshi , Chiba Ami , Jiang Linjing , Ishida Tomoya , Koshino Yuta , Samukawa Mina , Saito Hiroshi , Tohyama Harukazu
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Most older adults experience cognitive and physical functioning problems; however, they require the ability to learn skills in response to age-related or social environmental changes for independent living. This study aimed to clarify the associations between age-related physical activity and performance in skill learning tasks based on cognitive function. Methods: Fifty-eight adults participated in this study and were divided into two groups: the control group (aged under 65 years) and older adult group (aged over 65). All the participants performed two-skill learning exercises based on cognitive function. Habitual exercise was measured using an accelerometer and a self-reported questionnaire. Results: At baseline, the scores on skill tasks were lower in the older adult group than in the control group and were associated with habitual exercise and motor performance. Skill acquisition, observed in both groups, was associated with age and self-reported physical activity. Retention of the acquired skill was not associated with habitual exercise, and it declined significantly in the older group. Conclusions: Skill acquisition was maintained regardless of age; however, the ability to retain the acquired skills decreased among the older adults. Habitual physical activity was associated with skill acquisition but not the retention of the acquired skill. Significance/Implications: The study findings highlight the association between habitual exercise and motor skill learning in older adults, providing insight for practitioners in the rehabilitation and health care fields.
Director Selection: Drivers for the Adoption and Design of Nomination Committees by New Zealand National Sport Organizations
Authors: Molloy Tracy , Dickson Geoff , Ferkins Lesley
Published: October 2024

Nomination committees (NCs) are a critical, yet under-researched, part of the good governance equation. This study contributes to baseline knowledge of NC adoption and design. Underpinned by critical realism, four national sports organization case studies explain the “why” and “how” of NC adoption through a multitheoretical lens. Change strategies are identified using Hampel et al.’s mechanisms (symbolic, relational, and material) approach to institutional (creation) work outcomes. Archer’s morphogenetic cycle helps to demonstrate the interplay between structure, culture, and agency in achieving the change with the study, providing a timely reminder of the power of morphostasis (inertia). The results are important for future NC design to better inform national sport organization NCs’ structures and processes (including case-appropriate balance between community and corporate logics in national sport organization governance re-configurations) and aid future evaluations of NC effectiveness. A critical realism multitheoretical and multicase approach is modeled for future sport management studies.
Comparing the Effects of Progressive Balance and Hip Strengthening Rehabilitation in Individuals With Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Suttmiller Ashley M.B. , Johnson Kelly R. , Chung Sunghoon , Gruskiewicz Vanessa M. , Foreman Niara N. , Reyes Matthew C. , McCann Ryan S.
Published: October 2024

Context: Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is associated with motor-behavioral and sensory-perceptual impairments, including reduced balance performance, hip strength, and ankle function, and increased disablement, and injury-related fear. Progressive balance training (BAL) and hip strengthening (HIP) can both improve balance and function, but their comparative effects are unknown. Our objective was to compare the effects of progressive BAL and HIP on balance, hip strength, and patient-reported outcomes in those with CAI. Methods: Forty-five individuals with CAI volunteered for this randomized control study. Participants were randomly allocated to BAL, HIP, and control (CON) groups (n = 15 per group). BAL and HIP each participated in 8-week interventions while CON did not. Participants’ involved limbs underwent testing of patient-reported outcomes (Foot and Ankle Ability Measure [FAAM-ADL, FAAM-S], modified Disablement in the Physically Active Scale [mDPA], Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia-11 [TSK-11], Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire [FABQ], and Self-Efficacy of Balance Scale [SEBS]), Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), and isometric hip strength (extension [EXT], abduction [ABD], and external rotation [ER]) before and after the intervention. Multiple imputation was used for missing data. Multivariate repeated-measures analyses of variance analyzed effects of the interventions. Results: A significant group × time interaction existed for psychosocial outcomes (P = .008), but not for balance (P = .159), strength (P = .492), or ankle function and disability (P = .128). Time main effects existed for balance (P = .003), strength (P < .001), function and disability (P < .001), and psychosocial outcomes (P = .006). BAL significantly improved in SEBT, EXT, ABD, and all patient-reported outcomes. HIP significantly improved in EXT, ABD, ER, FAAM-S, mDPA, FABQ, and SEBS. Conclusions: Balance training and hip strengthening can both improve motor-behavioral and sensory-perceptual impairments in individuals with CAI; however, balance training remains the most effective option for clinicians.