bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiviral effect of cannabidiol on K18‐hACE2 transgenic mice infected with SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Polat Hivda Ulbegi , Yalcin Hicret Asli , Köm Deniz , Aksoy Özge , Abaci Irem , Ekiz Arzu Tas , Serhatli Müge , Onarici Selma
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to determine the antiviral activity of cannabidiol (CBD) against SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. CBD is the second most studied cannabinoid obtained from Cannabis plants. We investigated the potential use of CBD, which has so far proven to have a positive effect on different diseases, in the SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. To test this, in vivo studies were carried out using K18‐hACE2 transgenic mice. To reveal the potential therapeutic effect of the CBD at the histopathological and molecular level challenge experiments were performed. The study was designed with two groups (n = 10) and in the treatment group animals were infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 virus strain B.1.1.7 alpha before the administration of CBD. While the disease progressed and resulted in death in the control group that was infected by the virus alone, it was observed that the infection slowed down and the survival rate increased in the mice treated with CBD along with the virus. In this study, K18‐hACE2 transgenic mice infected with the wild SARS‐CoV‐2 virus were used to investigate and prove the antiviral activity of CBD.
Editorial: Qualitative contributions to translational science – Practical pointers towards methodological pluralism in child psychology and psychiatry
Authors: Sonuga‐Barke Edmund J. S.
Published: September 2024

Qualitative research is notable by its relative absence from the translational science studies in the field of child mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions in general, and the Journal of Child Psychology & Psychiatry in particular. In this editorial, I argue for a pragmatic integration of qualitative and quantitative methods to speed up the development of new and more effective interventions. I give practical examples of the benefits of qualitative methods at specific points across the discovery – development – implementation translational cycle.
Acne and the cutaneous microbiome: A systematic review of mechanisms and implications for treatments
Authors: Podwojniak Alicia , Tan Isabella J. , Sauer John , Neubauer Zachary , Rothenberg Hanna , Ghani Hira , Parikh Aarushi K. , Cohen Bernard
Published: September 2024

Acne vulgaris is a pervasive skin disease characterized by inflammation of sebaceous units surrounding hair follicles. It results from the complex interplay between skin physiology and the intricate cutaneous microbiome. Current acne treatments, while effective, have major limitations, prompting a shift towards microbiome‐based therapeutic approaches. This study aims to determine the relationship between acne and the cutaneous microbiome, assess the effects of current treatments on the cutaneous microbiome and explore the implications for developing new therapies. A systematic review was performed using PubMed and SCOPUS databases within the last 10 years. Methodological quality was assessed independently by two authors. The search retrieved 1830 records, of which 26 articles met the inclusion criteria. Meta‐analysis of alpha diversity change was assessed using fixed and randomized effect models per therapeutic group. Eight studies pertain to the role of the cutaneous microbiome in acne, identifying C. acnes, S. aureus and S. epidermidis as key contributors through overproliferation, commensalism or dysbiosis. Eleven studies discuss current acne treatments, including doxycycline (1), topical benzoyl peroxide (BPO) (4), isotretinoin (2), sulfacetamide‐sulfur (SSA) (2) and aminolevulinic acid‐photodynamic therapy (ALA‐PDT) (2), identified as modulating the cutaneous microbiome as a mechanism of efficacy in acne treatment. Seven studies discuss new treatments with topical probiotics, plant derivatives and protein derivatives, which contribute to acne clearance via modulation of dysbiosis, inflammatory markers and diversity indexes. A meta‐analysis of the effects of existing therapeutics on the cutaneous microbiome identified benzoyl peroxide as the only treatment to facilitate significant change in diversity. Despite the heterogeneity of study types and microbiome classifications limiting the analysis, this review underscores the complexity of microbial involvement in acne pathogenesis. It delineates the effects of acne therapeutics on microbial diversity, abundance and composition, emphasizing the necessity for personalized approaches in acne management based on microbiome modulation.
Melatonin Prevents Thioacetamide–Induced Gut Leakiness and Liver Fibrosis Through the Gut–Liver Axis via Modulating Sirt1‐Related Deacetylation of Gut Junctional Complex and Hepatic Proteins
Authors: Rungratanawanich Wiramon , LeFort Karli Rae , Cho Young‐Eun , Li Xiaoling , Song Byoung‐Joon
Published: September 2024

Intestinal barrier dysfunction with high serum endotoxin is common in patients with liver fibrosis, but the mechanisms underlying liver fibrosis remain unclear. Melatonin is a well‐recognized antioxidant and an anti‐inflammatory agent that benefits multiple organs. However, the beneficial effects of melatonin on gut leakiness–associated liver fibrosis have not been systemically studied. Here, we investigated the protective mechanisms of melatonin against thioacetamide (TAA)–induced gut barrier dysfunction and hepatic fibrosis by focusing on posttranslational protein modifications through the gut–liver axis. Our results showed that gut leakiness markers, including decreased gut tight/adherens junction proteins (TJ/AJs) with increased intestinal deformation, apoptosis, and serum endotoxin, were observed early at 1 week after TAA exposure. Liver injury, apoptosis, and fibrosis were prominent at 2 and 4 weeks. Mechanistically, we found that gut TJ/AJs were hyper‐acetylated, followed by ubiquitin‐dependent proteolysis, leading to their degradation and gut leakiness. Gut dysbiosis, hepatic protein hyper‐acetylation, and SIRT1 downregulation were also observed. Consistently, intestinal Sirt1 deficiency greatly enhanced protein hyper‐acetylation, gut leakiness, endotoxemia, and liver fibrosis. Pretreatment with melatonin prevented or improved all these changes in both the gut and liver. Furthermore, melatonin blunted protein acetylation and injury in TAA–exposed T84 human intestinal and AML12 mouse liver cells. Overall, this study demonstrated novel mechanisms by which melatonin prevents gut leakiness and liver fibrosis through the gut–liver axis by attenuating the acetylation of intestinal and hepatic proteins. Thus, melatonin consumption can become a potentially safe supplement for liver fibrosis patients by preventing protein hyper‐acetylation and gut leakiness.
Meta‐analysis of probiotics efficacy in the treatment of minimum hepatic encephalopathy
Authors: Zhou Yu‐Lian , Pu Shu‐Tao , Xiao Jian‐Bo , Luo Jun , Xue Li
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aims to systematically evaluate the efficacy of probiotics in treating minimum hepatic encephalopathy (MHE).

Methods

A systematic search was conducted across three major databases: PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang. The search period spanned from the inception of each database to 9 March 2023. The objective was to identify all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efficacy of probiotic preparations in treating MHE. The search terms included ‘probiotics’ along with other clinically relevant terms to comprehensively capture all pertinent studies.

Results

A total of 18 RCTs were included. The meta‐analysis showed that probiotic treatment outperformed control groups in reducing blood ammonia levels (standard mean difference [MD] = −2.68, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −3.90 to −1.46, p < .0001), improving the remission rate of MHE (risk ratio [RR] = 2.79, 95% CI: 1.23–6.35, p = .01) and lowering alanine aminotransferase levels (MD = −11.10, 95% CI: −16.17 to −6.03, p < .0001). It also significantly reduced the Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease scores (MD = −2.55, 95% CI: −3.56 to −1.54, p < .00001) and the incidence of MHE (RR = .18, 95% CI: .09–.34, p < .00001).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that probiotics effectively improve blood ammonia levels, liver function and cognitive function in patients with MHE. They significantly enhance the remission rate of MHE and effectively reduce its incidence, providing solid new evidence for treating MHE with probiotics.
Prevalence, trends, and distribution of hepatitis C virus among the general population in sub‐Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kassa Getahun Molla , Walker Josephine G. , Alamneh Tesfa Sewunet , Tamiru Melaku Tileku , Bivegete Sandra , Adane Aynishet , Amogne Wondwossen , Dillon John F. , Vickerman Peter , Dagne Emebet , Yesuf Elias Ali , Hickman Matthew , French Clare E. , Lim Aaron G. ,   the DESTINE NIHR Global Health Research Group
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

Although the evidence is uncertain, existing estimates for hepatitis C virus (HCV) in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) indicate a high burden. We estimated HCV seroprevalence and viraemic prevalence among the general population in SSA.

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase, Web of Science, APA PsycINFO, and World Health Organization Africa Index Medicus for community‐based studies. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool, and heterogeneity using the index of heterogeneity (I2). Two approaches were deployed. First, we used random‐effects meta‐analysis to pool prevalence. Second, to derive representative estimates, we weighted each country's HCV seroprevalence using 2021 United Nations country population sizes.

Results

We synthesized 130 studies. Overall, SSA HCV seroprevalence from the random‐effects model was 4.17% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.71–4.66, I2 = 99.30%). There were no differences between males (4.31%) and females (4.03%). Seroprevalence was 2.25%, 3.31%, and 16.23% for ages ≤20, 21–64, and ≥65 years, respectively, and was higher in rural (6.63%) versus urban (2.93%). There was indication of decrement overtime from 5.74% to 4.35% to 3.03% in the years 1984–2000, 2001–2014, and 2015–2023, respectively. The weighted overall SSA HCV seroprevalence was estimated to be 2.30% (95% CI: 1.59–3.00) with regional variation: Africa‐Southern (.79%), Africa‐Central (1.47%), Africa‐Eastern (2.71%), and Africa‐Western (2.88%). HCV viremia among HCV seropositives was 54.77% (95% CI: 47.80–61.66).

Conclusions

HCV seroprevalence in SSA remains high. Populations aged ≥65 years, rural communities, Africa‐Western, and some countries in Africa‐Central and Africa‐Eastern appear disproportionately affected. These results underline the need for governmental commitment to achieve the 2030 global HCV elimination targets.
Androgenic Alopecia Is Associated With More Severe Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Secondary to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Pazir Yasar , Kadihasanoglu Mustafa
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the possible association between androgenic alopecia (AGA) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Methods

A total of 148 patients aged over 45 with LUTS secondary to BPH were prospectively enrolled in this study. According to the Norwood–Hamilton classification, the patients were divided into two groups: AGA (n = 69) and non‐AGA (n = 79). In addition, the cases of AGA were categorized as vertex (n = 39) and frontal baldness (n = 30). The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), uroflowmetry parameters, prostate volume, serum total testosterone (TT), and free and total prostate‐specific antigen concentrations of all patients were assessed and compared between the groups. Correlations between the AGA grade and other variables were also investigated.

Results

The serum TT level (354 ± 97.1 vs. 308.6 ± 73.1 ng/dL, p = 0.01), total IPSS (16.1 ± 8.1 vs. 13.4 ± 7.7, p = 0.04), IPSS storage subscore (IPSS‐S) (7.1 ± 3.5 vs. 5.8 ± 3.6, p = 0.03), and number of nocturia episodes (2.5 ± 1.4 vs. 1.8 ± 1.4, p < 0.01) were significantly higher in the AGA group than in the non‐AGA group. There were no significant differences in any of the parameters between the patients with vertex and frontal baldness. The AGA grade showed a significant positive correlation with the TT level (r = 0.407, p = 0.003), IPSS‐S (r = 0.164, p = 0.04), and number of nocturia episodes (r = 0.203, p = 0.015).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that among patients with LUTS, those with AGA had worse symptoms and higher TT levels compared with those without AGA of similar age. Furthermore, the AGA grade was positively correlated with the TT level and storage symptoms.
Definition Change and Update of Clinical Guidelines for Interstitial Cystitis and Bladder Pain Syndrome
Authors: Homma Yukio , Akiyama Yoshiyuki , Kim Jang Hwan , Chuang Yao‐Chi , Jeong Seong Jin , Meng En , Kitta Takeya , Jhang Jia‐Fong , Furuta Akira , Lee Kyu‐Sung , Maeda Daichi
Published: September 2024

The clinical guidelines for interstitial cystitis (IC) and bladder pain syndrome (BPS) have been revised by updating our previous guidelines. The symptoms of IC and BPS, collectively called as hypersensitive bladder (HSB) symptoms, are virtually indistinguishable between IC and BPS; however, IC and BPS should be considered as a separate entity of disorders. We define IC as a bladder disease with Hunner lesions, usually associated with HSB symptoms and bladder inflammation, and BPS as a condition with HSB symptoms in the absence of Hunner lesions and any confusable diseases. Pathophysiology totally differs between IC and BPS. IC involves immunological inflammation probably resulting from autoimmunity, while BPS is associated with the interaction of multiple factors such as neurogenic inflammation, exogenous substances, urothelial defects, psychological stress, and neural hyperactivity. Histopathology also differs between IC and BPS. IC is associated with severe inflammation of the whole bladder accompanied by plasma cell infiltration and urothelial denudation, while BPS shows little pathological changes. Management should begin with a differential diagnosis of IC or BPS, which would require cystoscopy to determine the presence or absence of Hunner lesions. The patients should be treated differently based on the diagnosis following the algorithm, although pain management would be common to IC and BPS. Clinical studies are also to be designed and analyzed separately for IC and BPS.
Filter feeders living on suspension feeders: New insights into the lifestyle and distribution of Arcturidae Dana, 1849 (Crustacea: Isopoda) around Iceland
Authors: Hartmann Vivien Lukas , Pereira Emanuel , Mercado‐Salas Nancy F. , Lörz Anne‐Nina , Svavarsson Jörundur , Brix Saskia
Published: September 2024

The focus of the present study was on arcturid isopods occurring in the subarctic region around Iceland. Data from two decades of sampling with an epibenthic sledge (EBS) during numerous expeditions of the BIOICE (Benthic Invertebrates of Icelandic Waters; 1992–2004) and IceAGE (Icelandic marine Animals: Genetics and Ecology; 2011—ongoing) projects were incorporated into an integrative taxonomy approach. This approach linked distribution records, morphological and molecular examinations, with video and image data observed during recent expeditions in 2018 (MSM75) and 2020 (SO276) using the Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) PHOCA and Kiel 6000 from GEOMAR. The resulting dataset from 120 sampling locations included 6852 specimens, a large percentage of which were fixed in formalin during BIOICE. Ethanol‐fixed specimens collected during IceAGE were used to link morphotypes with haplotypes and occurrence locations, focusing on the coral association of the genus Astacilla Cordiner, 1793. The IceAGE sampling was complemented by ROV image and video data and noninvasive sampling, making it possible to obtain pictures of living specimens of A. longicornis. The species A. longicornis Sowerby, 1806 showed a distribution linked to cold‐water occurrence and was sampled from Paramuricea placomus. Astacilla boreaphilis Stranky & Svavarsson, 2006, occurring only south of Iceland, showed high morphological variation in the spine pattern of adult females, while the molecular results indicated no clear pattern of potentially ongoing species radiation or cryptic species. Astacilla granulata was exclusively found north of Iceland. Thus, the species' distribution is potentially influenced by the Greenland‐Faroe Ridge, which separates the North Atlantic from the Arctic Ocean.
Adolescent pregnancy, maternal and child anaemia: Empirical analysis from India, Bangladesh, and Nigeria
Authors: Rammohan Anu , Chu Hoi , Awofeso Niyi , Goli Srinivas
Published: September 2024

Early childbearing poses several potential risks to maternal and child health. This paper empirically analyses the association between teenage pregnancy and child nutritional status, maternal and child anaemia in three countries (Nigeria, India and Bangladesh) that account for the highest proportion of teenage births and/or total number of malnourished teenage mothers and children. Data were sourced from nine waves of Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in Bangladesh, India, and Nigeria from 2005–2018, covering a sample of 27,705 children from Bangladesh, 266,308 children from India and 54,719 children from Nigeria. Our outcome measures of maternal and child nutrition include (i) a composite measure of anthropometric failure for children (CIAF), (ii) maternal anaemia, (iii) childhood anaemia, and (iv) anaemia in maternal–child pairs. Using multivariate regression analysis, we examine the associations between early childbirth, child nutrition, and maternal and child anaemia, controlling for an array of household‐level socioeconomic and demographic characteristics. Across all three countries, the prevalence of CIAF (childhood anthropometric failure) is significantly higher among children born to women aged below 17 at first birth. We further find that early pregnancy and childbearing are associated with significantly higher rates of severe/moderate anaemia among both mothers and children in Bangladesh and Nigeria. In the three countries studied, the proportions of teenage mothers with vulnerable socioeconomic status and suboptimal pre‐conception care are relatively high, which raises the risk of maternal and child morbidity as well as mortality.
Child play and caregiver support to promote convalescence following severe acute malnutrition in Zimbabwe: The Tamba‐SAM pilot study
Authors: Kabongo Jacqueline , Mudawarima Louisa , Majo Florence D. , Dzikiti Anesu , Tome Joice , Chasekwa Bernard , Mutasa Batsirai , Dzapasi Lloyd , Munetsi Epiphania , Cordani Isabella , Ntozini Robert , Langhaug Lisa F. , Bwakura‐Dangarembizi Mutsa , Prendergast Andrew J.
Published: September 2024

Children hospitalised for severe acute malnutrition (SAM) have a high risk of mortality, relapse and rehospitalisation following hospital discharge. Current approaches fail to promote convalescence, or to address the underlying social determinants of SAM, meaning that restoration of long‐term health, growth and neurodevelopment is not achieved. Although guidelines recommend play and stimulation to promote recovery, most caregivers are not supported to do this at home. We set out to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a codesigned intervention package aimed at providing child stimulation through play, and strengthening caregiver capabilities through problem‐solving skills, peer support and income‐generating activities. We evaluated the intervention in two phases, enroling 30 caregiver–child pairs from paediatric wards in Harare, Zimbabwe, once children who had been hospitalised with SAM were ready for discharge. Children were median 17.8 months old, and 28.6% had human immunodeficiency virus. Trained intervention facilitators (IFs)—lay workers whose own children had previously had SAM—delivered the intervention over 12 weeks with nurse supervision. Qualitative interviews with caregivers and IFs showed that the intervention was feasible and acceptable. Participants reported benefiting from the psychosocial support and counselling, and several started income‐generating projects. Caregivers appreciated the concept of play and caregiver–child interaction, and all reported practising what they had learned. By Week 12, caregiver mental health and caregiver–child interaction improved significantly. Overall, the intervention was feasible, acceptable and showed promise in modifying caregiver knowledge, attitudes and practice. An efficacy trial is now needed to evaluate whether the intervention can improve child convalescence following complicated SAM.
Sexually selected differences in warbler plumage are related to a putative inversion on the Z chromosome
Authors: Dunn Peter O. , Sly Nicholas D. , Freeman‐Gallant Corey R. , Henschen Amberleigh E. , Bossu Christen M. , Ruegg Kristen C. , Minias Piotr , Whittingham Linda A.
Published: September 2024

Large structural variants in the genome, such as inversions, may play an important role in producing population structure and local adaptation to the environment through suppression of recombination. However, relatively few studies have linked inversions to phenotypic traits that are sexually selected and may play a role in reproductive isolation. Here, we found that geographic differences in the sexually selected plumage of a warbler, the common yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas), are largely due to differences in the Z (sex) chromosome (males are ZZ), which contains at least one putative inversion spanning 40% (31/77 Mb) of its length. The inversions on the Z chromosome vary dramatically east and west of the Appalachian Mountains, which provides evidence of cryptic population structure within the range of the most widespread eastern subspecies (G. t. trichas). In an eastern (New York) and western (Wisconsin) population of this subspecies, female prefer different male ornaments; larger black facial masks are preferred in Wisconsin and larger yellow breasts are preferred in New York. The putative inversion also contains genes related to vision, which could influence mating preferences. Thus, structural variants on the Z chromosome are associated with geographic differences in male ornaments and female choice, which may provide a mechanism for maintaining different patterns of sexual selection in spite of gene flow between populations of the same subspecies.
Chitosan stimulates root hair callose deposition, endomembrane dynamics, and inhibits root hair growth
Authors: Drs Matěj , Krupař Pavel , Škrabálková Eliška , Haluška Samuel , Müller Karel , Potocká Andrea , Brejšková Lucie , Serrano Natalia , Voxeur Aline , Vernhettes Samantha , Ortmannová Jitka , Caldarescu George , Fendrych Matyáš , Potocký Martin , Žárský Viktor , Pečenková Tamara
Published: September 2024

Although angiosperm plants generally react to immunity elicitors like chitin or chitosan by the cell wall callose deposition, this response in particular cell types, especially upon chitosan treatment, is not fully understood. Here we show that the growing root hairs (RHs) of Arabidopsis can respond to a mild (0.001%) chitosan treatment by the callose deposition and by a deceleration of the RH growth. We demonstrate that the glucan synthase‐like 5/PMR4 is vital for chitosan‐induced callose deposition but not for RH growth inhibition. Upon the higher chitosan concentration (0.01%) treatment, RHs do not deposit callose, while growth inhibition is prominent. To understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning the responses to two chitosan treatments, we analysed early Ca2+ and defence‐related signalling, gene expression, cell wall and RH cellular endomembrane modifications. Chitosan‐induced callose deposition is also present in the several other plant species, including functionally analogous and evolutionarily only distantly related RH‐like structures such as rhizoids of bryophytes. Our results point to the RH callose deposition as a conserved strategy of soil‐anchoring plant cells to cope with mild biotic stress. However, high chitosan concentration prominently disturbs RH intracellular dynamics, tip‐localised endomembrane compartments, growth and viability, precluding callose deposition.
Pepper RING‐Type E3 Ligase CaFIRF1 Negatively Regulates the Protein Stability of Pepper Stress‐Associated Protein, CaSAP14, in the Dehydration Stress Response
Authors: Bae Yeongil , Lim Chae Woo , Lee Sung Chul
Published: September 2024

As part of the cellular stress response in plants, the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS) plays a crucial role in regulating the protein stability of stress‐related transcription factors. Previous study has indicated that CaSAP14 is functionally involved in enhancing pepper plant tolerance to dehydration stress by modulating the expression of downstream genes. However, the comprehensive regulatory mechanism underlying CaSAP14 remains incompletely understood. Here, we identified a RING‐type E3 ligase, CaFIRF1, which interacts with and ubiquitinates CaSAP14. Pepper plants with silenced CaFIRF1 exhibited a dehydration‐tolerant phenotype when subjected to dehydration stress, while overexpression of CaFIRF1 in pepper and Arabidopsis resulted in reduced dehydration tolerance. Co‐silencing of CaFIRF1 and CaSAP14 in pepper increased sensitivity to dehydration, suggesting that CaFIRF1 acts upstream of CaSAP14. A cell‐free degradation analysis demonstrated that silencing of CaFIRF1 led to decreased CaSAP14 protein degradation, implicating CaFIRF1 in the regulation of CaSAP14 protein via the 26S proteasomal degradation pathway. Our findings suggest a mechanism by which CaFIRF1 mediates the ubiquitin‐dependent proteasomal degradation of CaSAP14, thereby influencing the response of pepper plants to dehydration stress.
Stress‐Induced Autophagy Is Essential for Microspore Cell Fate Transition to the Initial Cell of Androgenesis
Authors: Luo Pan , Zhao Zifu , Yang Fan , Zhang Lai , Li Siyuan , Qiao Ying , Zhang Liangxinyi , Yang Mingchun , Zhou Xiaotong , Zhao Linlin , Yang Yong , Tang Xingchun , Shi Ce
Published: September 2024

The isolated microspores can be reprogrammed towards embryogenesis via stress treatment during in vitro culture, and produce (doubled) haploid plants as a breeding source of new genetic variability. However, the mechanism underlying the cell fate transition from gametogenesis to embryogenesis remains largely unknown. Here, we report that autophagy plays a key role in cell fate transition for microspore embryogenesis (referred to as androgenesis) in Nicotiana tabacum. Immunofluorescence and transmission electronic microscopy detection unveiled that autophagy was triggered in microspores following exposure to inductive stress, and a transient wave of the numerous autophagy‐related genes (ATGs) expression occurred before the initiation of microspore embryogenesis. Suppression or promotion of the original autophagy levels could inhibit microspore embryogenesis, indicating that stress‐induced autophagic homeostasis is essential for cell fate transition. Furthermore, quantitative proteomics analysis revealed that autophagy might be involved in lignin biosynthesis and chromatin decondensation for promoting reprogramming for androgenesis initiation. Altogether, we reveal an essential role of autophagy in the microspore cell fate transition and androgenesis initiation, providing novel insight for understanding this critical developmental process.
I can feel my heartbeat: The relationship between interoceptive abilities and emotional states during stress and recovery in healthy adolescents
Authors: Braet Jolien , Braet Caroline
Published: September 2024

The goal of the current study was to investigate the differential effects of three interoception dimensions on psychophysiological stress responses (reactivity and recovery) in adolescents. A total of 102 adolescents (Mage = 14.10 years, SDage = 0.63; 50 males) completed the heartbeat counting task with adapted instructions to assess interoceptive accuracy, sensibility, and awareness. During a follow‐up session, participants underwent a standardized stressful task, throughout which measures of negative affect and respiratory sinus arrythmia (RSA) were collected. Results from multilevel models indicated that adolescents with higher interoceptive accuracy reported less pronounced increases in negative affect during stress induction, and subsequently experienced a less steep decrease in negative affect during recovery, compared to those with lower accuracy. Regarding RSA, adolescents with higher interoceptive accuracy exhibited greater decreases in RSA from baseline to stress, while those with higher interoceptive awareness maintained higher RSA levels throughout the experiment. In contrast, individuals with higher interoceptive sensibility exhibited lower levels of RSA during the experiment. These findings add to the limited literature on interoception in adolescents by illuminating its role in emotional experiences, stress responses, and recovery processes. Our study suggests that examining distinct dimensions of interoception, along with physiological measures during stress and recovery, is crucial for understanding its beneficial or adverse effects in adolescence. The complexity and potential significance of interoceptive dimensions extend beyond their correlations with traditional self‐report measures, warranting further investigation to clarify their implications and underlying mechanisms.
Erythropoiesis in Teleost Fishes: The Fantastic Biological Process
Authors: Zhong Aihua , Yan Xiaojun
Published: September 2024

Global fish production exceeds 170 million tons in 2023, and provides a high‐quality protein source for humans. However, various factors may contribute to hypoxic stress and anemia, which contribute to yield loss in fish production. Elevated red blood cell counts or activation of erythropoiesis are well‐known responses to anemia and hypoxia stress in fish. Erythropoiesis is the process of formation of new erythrocytes, from hemopoietic stem cells, through the differentiation of erythroblasts, to the maturation of red blood cells. This step‐wise process is governed by complex transcriptional, post‐translational, and epigenetic programs in response to extracellular signals. This review summarizes developing knowledge regarding erythropoiesis in teleosts, including the wave and site of erythropoiesis, specification of the erythroid lineage, and molecular regulation mechanisms. A summary of research gaps is presented, to be addressed by future research on teleosts. Understanding erythropoiesis facilitates improved fish husbandry and selective breeding of hypoxia‐tolerance fish, to ultimately contribute to increased production.
A Comprehensive Review of Diatom‐Bacterial Interactions Inferred From Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Hu Caiqin , Shi Zhen , Hu Tiehuan , Gao Yuan , Liu Qianfu , Wang Chao
Published: September 2024

Diatoms and bacteria have coexisted and coevolved for more than 200 million years, and their interactions have driven the processes of underlying major biogeochemical cycles. These complex and heterogeneous interactions span the range from synergistic to competitive and antagonistic, and they are regulated by diverse metabolites and biochemical mediators. Despite the significance of diatom–bacterial interactions in shaping aquatic food webs, driving nutrient cycles, and controlling algal blooms, the field currently lacks a comprehensive review of the current literature, research contents, and future research trends and perspectives. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of diatom–bacterial interactions by summarizing the information from current publications, including temporal trends, the most productive authors, journals, and countries, and illustrating current research contents, including regions, methods, foci, the interaction mechanisms and the environmental regulation. In addition, we discuss future research trends and perspectives. Our results indicate that most of the current research has been conducted in the ocean, using the methods of co‐culture experiments or field investigation combined with high‐throughput sequencing. The current research foci include the mechanisms of multiple cell‐to‐cell synergistic, competitive, antagonistic interactions, and multiple interactions regulated by biochemical molecules, and potential biotechnological applications. Furthermore, the future trends in this research field concern the underlying mechanisms of variation in diatom–bacterial interactions influenced by environmental changes and the possible applications. This review provides a comprehensive perspective on diatom‐bacterial relationships as well as a guide to future research.
Quantitative risk assessment of radiocesium associated with Japanese foods imported into the United Kingdom
Authors: Adkin Amie , Rylands Kay , Goodman Jessica , Oatway Wayne , Uy Frederique M. , Edge Joanne , Potter Claire
Published: September 2024

Damage to a nuclear power station resulted in radioactive contamination of certain areas of Japan in 2011. Legislation was put in place in Europe to establish controls on the import of certain types of food and feed, including a limit of 100 radioactive decays (becquerel, Bq) per second of radiocesium per kg. This legislation was retained in the United Kingdom after leaving the EU and then reviewed in 2021. A quantitative risk assessment was developed to estimate the radiological risk to public health from consuming Japanese food imported into the United Kingdom should the maximum level on radiocesium be removed. Although Japanese monitoring data indicated occurrences when products exceeded the 100 Bq per kg limit, these were found to be rare; a total of 1485 occurrences (0.0013%) of all measured foodstuff samples (>1 million) within the scope of this assessment had radiocesium activity concentrations that exceeded 100 Bq per kg. Using the recorded occurrence and level of radiocesium measured, and the current pattern and volume of food imported from Japan, there was an estimated excess risk of fatal cancer of around one in a million per year, categorized as negligible compared to the baseline 2018–2020 UK cancer fatality rate of around 1 in 4. On the basis of the described assessment and the estimated small additional risk, Great Britain lifted import controls related to radioactivity present in food from Japan. A number of recommendations to address data gaps and approaches in this assessment are made, particularly how we can improve modeling UK dietary habits for specialist foods.
Health expenditure, and economic growth in Sub‐Saharan African countries: The role of governance quality
Authors: Ikpe Marius , Madueme Stella I. , Ojike Richard Okey , Agbanike Tobechi F. , Anochiwa Lasbrey I. , Odionye Joseph Chukwudi
Published: September 2024

This study assessed the moderating influence of governance quality on the effect of health expenditure on economic growth, and exploring the analysis further to determine whether there exists possible heterogeneity in the distribution of this effect amongst 27 Sub‐Saharan African countries for the period 2005–2021. Public health expenditure (HExp), and six indicators of governance quality (control of corruption [Ccor], rule of law [Rlaw], political stability [Post], voice and accountability [Vacc], government effectiveness [Geft], and regulatory quality [Regq]) were utilised as proxy(ies) for HExp, and governance respectively. Two‐step dynamic panel data system generalised method of moments (DPD‐SGMM) estimation technique was used to estimate the conditional mean effect, while Possible heterogeneity in the distribution was explored using the method of moments quantile regression (MM‐QR); the study relied on annual time‐series indices of governance as developed by Kaufman and Kraay. Estimates demonstrate that: (i) while a significant positive relationship was observed between HExp and economic growth, Rlaw, Vacc, and Regq significantly reduce economic growth, (ii) interaction between HExp, and Vacc, Regq, individually increases the potency of HExp to stimulate economic growth by 2.2%, and 1.2% respectively, as against 1.3% reduction for Rlaw, (iii) no heterogeneity was observed in the distribution of these amongst the sample of countries.
Patho‐immunological mechanisms of atopic dermatitis: The role of the three major human microbiomes
Authors: Zhou Zhaosen , Yang Jing , Liu Qin , Gao Jing , Ji Wenting
Published: September 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a genetically predisposed allergic inflammatory dermatosis with chronic, pruritic, and recurrent features. Patients with AD have dry and itchy skin, often accompanied by chronic eczematous lesions, allergic rhinitis, or asthma, which has a considerable impact on their daily lives. With advances in genome sequencing technology, it has been demonstrated that microorganisms are involved in this disease, and the microorganisms associated with AD are attracting considerable research attention. An increasing number of studies conducted in recent years have demonstrated that an imbalanced microbiome in AD patients has substantial impact on disease prognosis, and the causes are closely tied to various immune mechanisms. However, the involvement of microorganisms in the pathogenesis of AD remains poorly understood. In this paper, we review the advances in research on the immunological mechanisms of the skin microbiome, intestinal microbiome, and lung microbiome that are related to AD prognosis and immunotherapy protocols. It is hoped that this approach will lay the foundation for exploring the pathogenesis of and emerging treatments for AD.
Tobit models for count time series
Authors: Weiß Christian H. , Zhu Fukang
Published: September 2024

Several models for count time series have been developed during the last decades, often inspired by traditional autoregressive moving average (ARMA) models for real‐valued time series, including integer‐valued ARMA (INARMA) and integer‐valued generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (INGARCH) models. Both INARMA and INGARCH models exhibit an ARMA‐like autocorrelation function (ACF). To achieve negative ACF values within the class of INGARCH models, log and softplus link functions are suggested in the literature, where the softplus approach leads to conditional linearity in good approximation. However, the softplus approach is limited to the INGARCH family for unbounded counts, that is, it can neither be used for bounded counts, nor for count processes from the INARMA family. In this paper, we present an alternative solution, named the Tobit approach, for achieving approximate linearity together with negative ACF values, which is more generally applicable than the softplus approach. A Skellam–Tobit INGARCH model for unbounded counts is studied in detail, including stationarity, approximate computation of moments, maximum likelihood and censored least absolute deviations estimation for unknown parameters and corresponding simulations. Extensions of the Tobit approach to other situations are also discussed, including underlying discrete distributions, INAR models, and bounded counts. Three real‐data examples are considered to illustrate the usefulness of the new approach.
Caring Technologies: Confronting Invisible Work in Digital Capitalism
Authors: Sciannamblo Mariacristina
Published: September 2024

In recent years, critical studies on digital platforms have emphasized that contemporary capitalism increasingly exploits the relational and cognitive faculties of human beings as sources of value. At the same time, activist projects are emerging in order to challenge the logics of commodification, individualization and accumulation that govern digital capitalism, being grounded in values that aim to promote visibility of labor and cooperation. This article contributes the notion of “caring technologies” where care is employed as a critical lens able to uncover the kinds of productive work made invisible by capitalist logics governing mainstream digital platforms and as a value for designing digital technologies aiming at challenging these very logics. By drawing on feminist theories about domestic work, we stress the analytical and interventionist character of care insofar as it sheds light on the forms of invisible work that allows the productive system to function and a politics that values social and economic relations usually neglected in the capitalist system. Ultimately, the article elaborates on a politics of caring to confront digital capitalism, transforming care into a logic that informs activist interventions which value agential and inalienable aspects characterizing the diverse forms of labor mediated by digital technologies.
Re‐imagining professional learning communities in education: Placing teacher leadership in STEM context
Authors: Martinovic Dragana , Milner‐Bolotin Marina
Published: September 2024

This conceptual analysis paper discusses the characteristics of teacher leadership (TL) in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, presenting benefits for its development within the professional learning communities (PLCs). We describe our STEM education approach and argue that TL in STEM is different and more complex than leadership in any particular discipline. We compare two pathways for STEM learning and professional development (PD): engineering design approach and modeling approach. Then, we answer two research questions pertaining to the characteristics of STEM teacher leaders' (TLRs) knowledge, dispositions, and skill set; the support TLRs need to empower STEM educators; and consequently, we discuss how PLCs can become vehicles for growing STEM TLRs and empowering teachers. When promoting integrated STEM, educators likely find themselves in an out‐of‐field teaching situation, where communication with their PLC's leaders and peers is crucial in developing epistemological multiliteracy and confidence. We elaborate on the four main characteristics of STEM PLCs: (1) collaborative nature; (2) focus on boosting teachers' pedagogical content knowledge and confidence; (3) evidence‐based decision making; and (4) advocacy for high‐quality STEM education, teacher education, and PD. Each feature serves different but complementary goals, suitable for developing and utilizing the seven dimensions of TL discussed in the literature.
Cohomological and motivic inclusion–exclusion
Authors: Das Ronno , Howe Sean
Published: September 2024

We categorify the inclusion–exclusion principle for partially ordered topological spaces and schemes to a filtration on the derived category of sheaves. As a consequence, we obtain functorial spectral sequences that generalize the two spectral sequences of a stratified space and certain Vassiliev-type spectral sequences; we also obtain Euler characteristic analogs in the Grothendieck ring of varieties. As an application, we give an algebro-geometric proof of Vakil and Wood's homological stability conjecture for the space of smooth hypersurface sections of a smooth projective variety. In characteristic zero this conjecture was previously established by Aumonier via topological methods.
Protein kinase C epsilon contributes to chronic mechanoreflex sensitization in rats with heart failure
Authors: Butenas Alec L. E. , Parr Shannon K. , Flax Joseph S. , Carroll Raimi J. , Baranczuk Ashley M. , Ade Carl J. , Hageman K. Sue , Musch Timothy I. , Copp Steven W.
Published: September 2024

We investigated second‐messenger signalling components linked to the stimulation of Gq protein‐coupled receptors (e.g. thromboxane A2 and bradykinin B2 receptors) on the sensory endings of thin fibre muscle afferents in the chronic mechanoreflex sensitization in rats with myocardial infarction‐induced heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HF‐rEF). We hypothesized that injection of either the inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate (IP3) receptor antagonist xestospongin C (5 µg) or the PKCε translocation inhibitor PKCe141 (45 µg) into the arterial supply of the hindlimb would reduce the increase in renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) evoked during 30 s of 1 Hz dynamic hindlimb muscle stretch in decerebrate, unanaesthetized HF‐rEF rats but not sham‐operated controls (SHAM). Ejection fraction was significantly reduced in HF‐rEF (45 (19)%) compared to SHAM (80 (9)%; P < 0.001) rats. In HF‐rEF rats (n = 3M/2F), IP3 receptor blockade had no effect on the peak ΔRSNA (pre: 99 (74)%; post: 133 (79)%; P = 0.974) or peak ΔMAP response to stretch (peak ΔMAP: pre: 32 (14) mmHg; post: 36 (21) mmHg; P = 0.719). Conversely, in another group of HF‐rEF rats (n = 4M/3F), the PKCε translocation inhibitor reduced the peak ΔRSNA (pre: 110 (77)%; post: 62 (58)%; P = 0.029) and peak ΔMAP response to stretch (pre: 30 (20) mmHg; post: 17 (16) mmHg; P = 0.048). In SHAM counterparts, neither drug affected the mechanoreflex responses. Our findings highlight PKCε, but not IP3 receptors, as a significant second‐messenger in the chronic mechanoreflex sensitization in HF‐rEF which may play a crucial role in the exaggerated sympathetic response to exercise in this patient population.

image

Key points

Skeletal muscle contraction results in an exaggerated reflex increase in sympathetic nerve activity in heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction (HF‐rEF) compared to healthy individuals, contributing to increased cardiovascular risk and impaired tolerance for mild exercise.

The exaggerated reflex sympathetic responses in HF‐rEF may be attributed to a chronic sensitization of mechanically sensitive thin fibre muscle afferents mediated, at least in part, by stimulation of Gq protein‐coupled thromboxane A2 and bradykinin B2 receptors on muscle afferent sensory endings.

The specific Gq protein‐linked signalling mechanisms that produce the chronic mechanoreflex sensitization in HF‐rEF have not been investigated but may involve inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate (IP3) receptors and/or protein kinase C epsilon (PKCε).

Here we demonstrate that PKCε, but not IP3 receptors, within the sensory endings of thin fibre muscle afferents plays a role in the sensitization of mechanically sensitive thin fibre muscle afferents in rats with HF‐rEF.
Image-Based Estimation of Left Ventricular Myocardial Stiffness
Authors: Shazly Tarek , Eads Logan , Kazel Mia , Yigamawano Francesco K. , Guest Juliana , Jones Traci L. , Alshareef Ahmed A. , Barringhaus Kurt G. , Spinale Francis G.
Published: September 2024

Elevation in left ventricular (LV) myocardial stiffness is a key remodeling-mediated change that underlies the development and progression of heart failure (HF). Despite the potential diagnostic value of quantifying this deterministic change, there is a lack of enabling techniques that can be readily incorporated into current clinical practice. To address this unmet clinical need, we propose a simple protocol for processing routine echocardiographic imaging data to provide an index of left ventricular myocardial stiffness, with protocol specification for patients at risk for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. We demonstrate our protocol in both a preclinical and clinical setting, with representative findings that suggest sensitivity and translational feasibility of obtained estimates.
A Validated Unsteady Turbofan Engine Performance Simulation Using Pseudo Bond Graph Approach
Authors: Goeing Jan , Lück Sebastian , Friedrichs Jens
Published: September 2024

In this paper, the unsteady performance of a turbofan engine is illustrated and modeled using the pseudo-bond graph approach. The pseudo-bond graph method allows multiphysical and interdisciplinary systems to be described analytically and comprehensibly across disciplines. In this study, a high bypass ratio turbofan engine is modeled using a pseudo-bond graph model that can be adapted for hybrid electric propulsion systems. The development of the model is followed by a full-scale test run of the in-house V2500-A1 turbofan engine. The highly instrumented turbofan engine enables the time-resolved recording of performance-specific variables, thus facilitating the validation of the numerical model. Slam acceleration and deceleration are performed to analyze the unsteady performance. It is shown that the pseudo-bond graph model is able to predict the dynamics of the turbofan engine. High deviations are explained by the incomplete modeling of the control system.