bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct Male Development in Chromosomally ZZ Zebrafish
Authors: Wilson Catherine A. , Batzel Peter , Postlethwait John H.
Published: December 2023

The genetics of sex determination varies across taxa, sometimes even within a species. Major domesticated strains of zebrafish (Danio rerio), including AB and TU, lack a strong genetic sex determining locus, but strains more recently derived from nature, like Nadia (NA), possess a ZZ male/ZW female chromosomal sex-determination system. AB strain fish pass through a juvenile ovary stage, forming oocytes that survive in fish that become females but die in fish that become males. To understand mechanisms of gonad development in NA zebrafish, we studied histology and single cell transcriptomics in developing ZZ and ZW fish. ZW fish developed oocytes by 22 days post-fertilization (dpf) but ZZ fish directly formed testes, avoiding a juvenile ovary phase. Gonads of some ZW and WW fish, however, developed oocytes that died as the gonad became a testis, mimicking AB fish, suggesting that the gynogenetically derived AB strain is chromosomally WW. Single-cell RNA-seq of 19dpf gonads showed similar cell types in ZZ and ZW fish, including germ cells, precursors of gonadal support cells, steroidogenic cells, interstitial/stromal cells, and immune cells, consistent with a bipotential juvenile gonad. In contrast, scRNA-seq of 30dpf gonads revealed that cells in ZZ gonads had transcriptomes characteristic of testicular Sertoli, Leydig, and germ cells while ZW gonads had granulosa cells, theca cells, and developing oocytes. Hematopoietic and vascular cells were similar in both sex genotypes. These results show that juvenile NA zebrafish initially develop a bipotential gonad; that a factor on the NA W chromosome or fewer than two Z chromosomes is essential to initiate oocyte development; and without the W factor or with two Z doses, NA gonads develop directly into testes without passing through the juvenile ovary stage. Sex determination in AB and TU strains mimics NA ZW and WW zebrafish, suggesting loss of the Z chromosome during domestication. Genetic analysis of the NA strain will facilitate our understanding of the evolution of sex determination mechanisms.
Abscisic acid signaling gates salt-specific responses of plant roots
Authors: Lamers Jasper , Zhang Yanxia , van Zelm Eva , Meyer A. Jessica , de Zeeuw Thijs , Verstappen Francel , Veen Mark , Deolu-Ajayi Ayodeji O. , Gommers Charlotte M.M. , Testerink Christa
Published: December 2023

Soil salinity presents a dual challenge for plants, involving both osmotic and ionic stress. In response, plants deploy distinct yet interconnected mechanisms to cope with these facets of salinity stress. In this investigation, we observed a substantial overlap in the salt (NaCl)-induced transcriptional responses of Arabidopsis roots with those triggered by osmotic stress or the plant stress hormone abscisic acid (ABA), as anticipated. Notably, a specific cluster of genes responded uniquely to sodium (Na+) ions. Surprisingly, expression of sodium-induced genes exhibited a negative correlation with the ABA response and preceded the activation of genes induced by the osmotic stress component of salt. Elevated exogenous ABA levels resulted in the complete abolition of sodium-induced responses. Consistently, ABA signalling mutants displayed prolonged sodium-induced gene expression, coupled with increased root cell damage under high salinity conditions. Moreover, ABA signalling mutants were unable to redirect root growth to avoid high sodium concentrations and failed to contain their root cell swelling in the presence of elevated salt levels.

In summary, our findings unveil an unexpected and pivotal role for ABA signaling in mitigating cellular damage induced by salinity stress and modulating sodium-specific responses in plant roots.
Longitudinal conditional probability of symmetric DNA methylation inArabidopsisplants
Authors: Fernandes Humberto
Published: December 2023

DNA replication in high eukaryotes requires the faithful transmission of both the sequence and its methylation status. DNA methyltransferases are not consistently reliable enzymes for accurately restoring methylation in newly synthesised DNA strands when working in isolation. In this study, we evaluated some of the factors that enhance the fidelity of DNA methyltransferases and measure their local and distant impacts on the neighbouring methylation status. A clear understanding of DNA methylation fidelity during replication is important for advances in epigenetic knowledge in general and the potential development of new diagnostics and therapies for epigenetic diseases. We used theArabidopsismodel system because it is moderately methylated, which is an important advantage over animal models since it reduces the chance of a fully-methylated symmetric methylation to virtually nil while providing sufficient occupancy to ensure reliable interpretations. In this study, we employed hairpin bisulfite and nanopore sequencing (1D and 1D2) to test the inter- and intra-strand relationships among the neighbouring 5-methylcytosines (5mC) and evaluate the distribution of hemimethylated sites, as well as the correlations to other cues such as DNA methylation and histone marks. We observed that the presence of a CpG methylation site can predict the occurrence of neighbouring CpG methylation sites, but not necessarily CWG sites, whereas CWG methylation can predict both neighbouring CWG and CpG methylation locations. These predictabilities extend far beyond the size of a nucleosome, and sites 4 kb away still show higher probabilities of methylation compared to the global average.

Graphic abstract

Graphic abstract

Fidelity and longitudinal conditional methylation probability of CpG and CWG DNA methylation inArabidopsisplants
The potential for community-driven ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction in South Asia: a literature review
Authors: Lansakara Damithri Chathumani , Le De Loic , Petterson Michael , Wickramasinghe Deepthi
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The paper reviews existing literature on South Asian ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (DRR) and identifies how community participation can be used to plan and implement ecosystem-based DRR approaches.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature review methodology involved several stages. Firstly, the research objective was determined. Secondly keywords for the literature search were determined. Scopus, Google Scholar, JSTOR and AUT online library were utilized for the literature search. After the search, the literature was screened. The study design, methodology, results and limitations were identified and documented. After data extraction, the literature was analyzed. The patterns, trends and inconsistencies in the literature were identified based on the research question. Later the gaps, controversies and future research needs were identified. Then, a comprehensive and structured literature review that summarizes the relevant literature, synthesizes the findings and provides a critical evaluation of the literature was documented. After writing the document, it was reviewed and edited to ensure its clarity, accuracy and coherence.

Findings

The paper identifies four different themes recurrently emerging in literature on the importance of community participation in ecosystem-based DRR in South Asia. The themes are local community participation in ecosystem-based DRR governance, knowledge production, livelihood enhancement and increased public acceptance.

Originality/value

The paper also illustrates the challenges in integrating community participation with the dominant physical scientific approaches ecosystem-based DRR and proposes a five-element framework to facilitate the integration.
The reward crowdfunding campaign management process: an engagement perspective
Authors: Arshad Nadia , Shneor Rotem , Berndt Adele
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Crowdfunding is an increasingly popular channel for project fundraising for entrepreneurial ventures. Such efforts require fundraisers to develop and manage a crowdfunding campaign over a period of time and several stages. Thus, the authors aim to identify the stages fundraisers go through in their crowdfunding campaign process and how their engagement evolves throughout this process.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a multiple case study research design analysing six successful campaigns, the current study suggests a taxonomy of stages the fundraisers go through in their crowdfunding campaign management process while identifying the types of engagement displayed and their relative intensity at each of these stages.

Findings

The study proposes a five-stage process framework (pre-launch, launch, mid-campaign, conclusion and post-campaign), accompanied by a series of propositions outlining the relative intensity of different types of engagement throughout this process. The authors show that engagement levels appear with high intensity at pre-launch, and to a lesser degree also at the post-launch stage while showing low intensity at the stages in between them. More specifically, cognitive and behavioural engagement are most prominent at the pre- and post-launch stages. Emotional engagement is highest during the launch, mid-launch and conclusion stages. And social engagement maintains moderate levels of intensity throughout the process.

Originality/value

This study focuses on the campaign process using engagement theory, thus identifying the differing engagement patterns throughout the dynamic crowdfunding campaign management process, not just in one part.
ImageNet classification with Raspberry Pis: federated learning algorithms of local classifiers
Authors: Do Thanh-Nghi , Tran-Nguyen Minh-Thu
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to propose novel edge device-tailored federated learning algorithms of local classifiers (stochastic gradient descent, support vector machines), namely, FL-lSGD and FL-lSVM. These algorithms are designed to address the challenge of large-scale ImageNet classification.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors’ FL-lSGD and FL-lSVM trains in a parallel and incremental manner to build an ensemble local classifier on Raspberry Pis without requiring data exchange. The algorithms load small data blocks of the local training subset stored on the Raspberry Pi sequentially to train the local classifiers. The data block is split intokpartitions using thek-means algorithm, and models are trained in parallel on each data partition to enable local data classification.

Findings

Empirical test results on the ImageNet data set show that the authors’ FL-lSGD and FL-lSVM algorithms with 4 Raspberry Pis (Quad core Cortex-A72, ARM v8, 64-bit SoC @ 1.5GHz, 4GB RAM) are faster than the state-of-the-art LIBLINEAR algorithm run on a PC (Intel(R) Core i7-4790 CPU, 3.6 GHz, 4 cores, 32GB RAM).

Originality/value

Efficiently addressing the challenge of large-scale ImageNet classification, the authors’ novel federated learning algorithms of local classifiers have been tailored to work on the Raspberry Pi. These algorithms can handle 1,281,167 images and 1,000 classes effectively.
Influence of manufacturing surface topography on torque and load bearing capacity of hydro-viscous drive clutch under mixed lubrication stage
Authors: Chen Shi , Han Zhiyong , Zeng Qiang , Wang Bing , Wang Liming , Guo Liuyang , Shao Yimin
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Hydro-viscous drive (HVD) clutches are widely used in equipment requiring soft start, such as fans and pumps, to transmit torque and adjust speed by changing the gap distance between friction pairs. This paper aims to propose a novel two-parameter evaluation method for HVD during the mixed lubrication stage. The objective is to develop an effective model that establishes the relationship between these parameters and the actual surface topography.

Design/methodology/approach

In the presented methods, the fractal features of the real manufacturing surface are calculated based on the power spectrum function by the ultra-depth three-dimensional microscope. After that, the hybrid friction model of the friction plate is established based on mixed elasto-hydrodynamic lubrication theory, boundary friction model and fractal theory. Then the torque and load bearing characteristics of the clutch are obtained, and the influences of the surface fractal features are investigated and discussed. Finally, the Weierstrass–Mandelbrot function is adopted for the surface topography characterization and evaluation.

Findings

The results indicate that the proposed method exhibits good accuracy, while the speed difference between the friction pair exceeds 2,500 rpm. It is concluded that this paper proposed a way to evaluate the torque and loading capacity of HVD considering the real manufacturing surface topography and is helpful for surface optimization.

Originality/value

The originality and value of this study lie in its development of a novel torque and load bearing capacity evaluation method for HVD in mixed lubrication stage, considering manufacturing surface topography and describing the real manufacturing surface.
Transparency and trust in cargo claims: microenterprises selling internationally on a peer-to-peer platform
Authors: Caliskan Ferhat , Idug Yavuz , Gligor David M. , Uvet Hasan , Adana Saban , Celik Hasan , Cevikparmak Sedat
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the factors that impact the trust of microenterprises in online selling platforms and cargo carriers and examine the consequences of a lack of trust.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a qualitative exploratory approach and uses grounded theory to generate insights based on interviews with 27 microenterprise owners selling internationally on an online selling platform.

Findings

The results show that a lack of competence, an absence of an integrated claim system and a lack of transparency are the main factors affecting sellers’ trust in online selling platforms. The relationship between the sellers’ intention to continue to use the online selling platform and their trust in the platform was found to be moderated by switching costs.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited in that the results were mainly based on the sellers’ perspectives although the phenomenon of interest involves various actors. To mitigate this limitation and cross-check the data, the customer reviews and some of the sellers’ account statistics were also analyzed.

Practical implications

This study introduces the sellers’ perspectives on the dynamics of supply chain management in international micro trade. These dynamics provide a guideline for how to build and manage an online selling platform targeting microenterprises.

Originality/value

Unlike previous studies, this study examines online transaction behaviors from the standpoint of sellers, not buyers. Moreover, it is the first study examining the damaged or lost shipments within the context of online transactions in international micro trade.
“It’s hard because it’s something new”: challenges for forcibly displaced parents upon resettlement
Authors: Rao Nikita , Kumar Jessica , Weeks Erin A. , Self-Brown Shannon , Willging Cathleen E. , O'Connor Mary Helen , Whitaker Daniel J.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Parent–child relationships formed in early childhood have profound implications for a child’s development and serve as a determinant for bio-social outcomes in adulthood. Positive parenting behaviors play a strong role in this development and are especially impactful during times of crisis because they buffer stressors that may lead to externalizing and internalizing behaviors. Children of forced migrants experience numerous extreme stressors and their parents may struggle with parenting due to their own adjustment and trauma histories. The purpose of this study is to understand how these parents conceptualize their struggles with parenting upon resettlement.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted semi-structured interviews with 27 migrant parents from three communities (Afghan, Burmese and Congolese) to understand their parenting experiences. The authors applied thematic text analysis to analyze the data.

Findings

The authors identified four interrelated themes on parenting challenges across responses: adjustment to a new culture, acculturation differences, fear for children and balancing multiple responsibilities. The findings demonstrate that parents of different cultural backgrounds share certain experiences when negotiating a new cultural identity after resettlement. Providing educational programs that focus on these concerns may result in better outcomes for both parent and child.

Originality/value

These findings extend and reinforce the existing literature on parenting in a new context. While the parents in this research come from different cultures, they share certain experiences that are important to consider when developing parenting programs, social services and other interventions, such as what may be negotiable and nonnegotiable practices for parents of different cultures.
Globalization, entrepreneurial development and unemployment: a mediation analysis in the context of South Africa
Authors: Amoa-Gyarteng Karikari , Dhliwayo Shepherd
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study clarifies the intricate nature of globalization's impact on unemployment rates in South Africa. Given the heterogeneous views on globalization's effect on economic development, this study aims to offer a nuanced perspective. Furthermore, it aims to explore the mediating role of entrepreneurial development in shaping the complex relationship between globalization and unemployment.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs four key indicators to measure entrepreneurial development, globalization and unemployment rates in South Africa. Hierarchical regression is used to evaluate the relationship between globalization and unemployment rates, and how entrepreneurial development mediates this relationship. Additionally, both the Sobel test and bootstrapping analyses were employed to verify and validate the mediating relationship.

Findings

The study demonstrates that globalization constitutes a crucial determinant of (un)employment rates in South Africa. The study shows that entrepreneurial development, specifically in the context of established business ownership, but not total early-stage entrepreneurial activity, exhibits an inverse relationship with unemployment rates. Moreover, it was observed that the positive impact of globalization on entrepreneurial development in South Africa becomes evident as SMEs advance to the established stage.

Research limitations/implications

The study's concentration on South Africa constrains the applicability of the results to other nations.

Practical implications

Based on the findings of this study, it is essential for emerging economies, such as South Africa, to take measures to foster a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem that can aid in the growth and international competitiveness of young SMEs.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study represents the first endeavor to analyze the potential impact of entrepreneurial development, as measured by both nascent and mature SMEs, on the correlation between globalization and unemployment.
Consumer-based retailer equity and retail patronage behaviors: interaction effect of involvement
Authors: Sajid Bushra , Cheema Sadia , Rather Raouf Ahmad
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Grounded on brand equity theory and theory of patronage behavior, this study aims to investigate the moderating effect of consumer involvement and shopping situations in the relationship between consumer-based retailer equity (CBRE) and retail patronage behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The data is collected through a self-administered survey of 338 shoppers in the three biggest shopping centers in Pakistan. Moreover, the data is analyzed through multi-nominal (multiple) regression and interactions analysis.

Findings

Results revealed a significant effect of CBRE on patronage behavior and confirmed shopping purpose as a boundary condition in the CBRE-retail patronage behavior relationship. However, the study surprisingly reported that this relationship is not moderated by consumers’ involvement.

Research limitations/implications

Considering our focus on CBRE-based retail patronage behavior, the authors contribute to extant marketing/retailing literature that also yields ample openings for further research. The study offers valuable implications for retailers, especially for evaluating consumers’ behaviors.

Practical implications

This study assists retail-brand managers in best comprehending the CBRE-based patronage behavior paves the way for managers to increase retail patronage behavior.

Originality/value

Regardless of the growing comprehension of consumer-based brand equity and patronage behavior in marketing, more needs to be acknowledged about the relationship between CBRE/retail patronage behavior and related variables, as thus examined in this research.
The historical sociology of medicine in India: Introduction to the special section
Authors: Jeffery Roger , Jones David S. , Kumbhar Kiran
Published: December 2023

This introduction to a special section brings together three papers first presented at a panel, ‘Medical Professions in South Asia: Historical and Contemporary Analyses’, at the 26th European Conference on South Asian Studies, held in Vienna, Austria and online, in July 2021. All three papers deal with aspects of the professionalisation of biomedical doctors in India since its independence in 1947. The authors bring together historical and sociological approaches to illuminate the growth of specialisms, patterns of practitioner–patient interactions and efforts to maintain occupational closure and maintain status in the face of growing challenges. The introduction concludes with a discussion of the relevance of these papers for the sociology of health and illness in India and beyond.
Sample composition and representativeness on Understanding Society
Authors: Lynn Peter , Cabrera‐Álvarez Pablo , Clarke Paul
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we provide an overview of the sample design of Understanding Society and the consequent nature of design weights as well as a description of procedures that are implemented in order to maximise participation by sample members and procedures that are implemented to produce non‐response adjustments to the design weights. We then present some indicators of sample representativeness at the initial wave and of the impact that subsequent sample attrition has on this before concluding with some reflections on the nature of representativeness and estimation methods in the context of a highly complex sample design and complex patterns of missing data arising from non‐response.
Early Devonian Post‐collisional Granitic Magmatism in the North Qilian Orogenic Belt, Western China: Insights into Lithospheric Delamination and Orogenic Collapse
Authors: WANG Qian , ZHAO Xilin , MENG Yuanku , YU Shengyao , LIU Yanan
Published: December 2023

Post‐collisional magmatism contains important clues for understanding the reworking and growth of continental crust, as well as lithospheric delamination and orogenic collapse. Early Devonian magmatism has been identified in the North Qilian Orogenic Belt (NQOB). This paper reports an integrated study of petrology, whole‐rock geochemistry, Sm‐Nd isotope and zircon U‐Pb dating, as well as Lu‐Hf isotopic data, for two Early Devonian intrusive plutons. The Yongchang and Chijin granites yield zircon U‐Pb ages of 394–407 Ma and 414 Ma, respectively. Both of them are characterized by weakly peraluminous to metaluminous without typical aluminium‐rich minerals, LREE‐enriched patterns with negative Eu anomalies and a negative correlation between P2O5 and SiO2 contents, consistent with geochemical features of I‐type granitoids. Zircons from the studied granites display negative to weak positive εHf(t) values (–5.7 to 2.1), which agree well with those of negative εNd(t) values (−6.4 to −2.9) for the whole‐rock samples, indicating that they were derived from the partial melting of Mesoproterozoic crust. Furthermore, low Sr/Y ratios (1.13–21.28) and high zircon saturation temperatures (745°C to 839°C, with the majority being >800°C) demonstrated a relatively shallow depth level below the garnet stability field and an additional heat source. Taken together, the Early Devonian granitic magmatism could have been produced by the partial melting of ancient crustal materials heated by mantle‐derived magmas at high‐temperature and low‐pressure conditions during post‐collisional extensional collapse. The data obtained in this study, when viewed in conjunction with previous studies, provides more information about the tectonic processes that followed the closure of the North Qilian Ocean. The tectonic transition from continental collision to post‐collisional delamination could be constrained to ∼430 Ma, which is provided by the sudden decrease of Sr/Y and La/Yb ratios and an increase in zircon εHf(t) values for granitoids. A two‐stage tectonic evolution model from continental collision to post‐collisional extensional collapse for the NQOB includes (a) continental collision and crustal thickening during ca. 455–430 Ma, characterized by granulite‐facies metamorphism and widespread low‐Mg adakitic magmatism; (b) post‐collisional delamination of thickened continental crust and extensional collapse of orogen during ca. 430–390 Ma, provided by coeval high‐Mg adakitic magmatism, A‐type granites and I‐type granitoids with low Sr‐Y ratios.
New Benthic Fossils from the Late Ediacaran Strata of Southwestern China
Authors: LIU Junping , LI Ming , TANG Feng , ZHAO Jiangtai , SONG Sicun , ZHOU Ying , SONG Xiaohan , REN Liudong
Published: December 2023

The Jiangchuan Biota from the Jiucheng Member (Mb.) of the Dengying Formation (Fm.), discovered in Jiangchuan, eastern Yunnan, China, is marked by copious macrofossils at the apex of the Ediacaran strata. This fauna features benthic algae with varied holdfasts and other fossils of indeterminate taxonomic affinity and is compositionally unique compared to the Shibantan and Gaojiashan biotas of the Dengying Fm. and the Miaohe and Wenghui biotas of the Doushantuo Fm., elsewhere in China. One novel benthic saccular macroalgal fossil, named here Houjiashania yuxiensis gen. and sp. nov., from the Jiangchuan Biota is based on fossils that are sausage‐shaped, elongate, tubular, ranging from 0.3 to 4 cm in length, and up to 0.8 cm in diameter. One terminus is blunt and rounded to an obtuse angle, the other is bent with a spread‐out surface resembling a holdfast, suggesting a three‐dimensional thallus. Thin, stipe‐shaped outgrowths, likely vestiges of sessile saccular life forms, are prevalent in macroalgal fossils of analogous size and shape, as well as present brown algae Scytosiphonaceae, such as Colpomenia and Dactylosiphon. The new findings augment the diversity of benthic algae, such as those known from the Early Neoproterozoic Longfengshan Biota in North China. The benthic algal macrofossils in the Jiucheng Mb. add to knowledge of Late Ediacaran metaphyte diversification and offer more clues about the evolutionary positioning of primitive macroalgae. The co‐occurrence of numerous planktonic and benthic multicellular algae and planktonic microbes might have facilitated ecologically the more extensive later Cambrian explosion evidenced by the Chengjiang Biota in Yunnan.
DNA repair‐deficient premature aging models display accelerated epigenetic age
Authors: Perez Kevin , Parras Alberto , Picó Sara , Rechsteiner Cheyenne , Haghani Amin , Brooke Robert , Mrabti Calida , Schoenfeldt Lucas , Horvath Steve , Ocampo Alejandro
Published: December 2023

Several premature aging mouse models have been developed to study aging and identify interventions that can delay age‐related diseases. Yet, it is still unclear whether these models truly recapitulate natural aging. Here, we analyzed DNA methylation in multiple tissues of four previously reported mouse models of premature aging (Ercc1, LAKI, Polg, and Xpg). We estimated DNA methylation (DNAm) age of these samples using the Horvath clock. The most pronounced increase in DNAm age could be observed in Ercc1 mice, a strain which exhibits a deficit in DNA nucleotide excision repair. Similarly, we detected an increase in epigenetic age in fibroblasts isolated from patients with progeroid syndromes associated with mutations in DNA excision repair genes. These findings highlight that mouse models with deficiencies in DNA repair, unlike other premature aging models, display accelerated epigenetic age, suggesting a strong connection between DNA damage and epigenetic dysregulation during aging.
Becoming malleable
Authors: Friedner Michele , Wolf‐Meyer Matthew
Published: December 2023

Drawing on anthropological scholarship on the senses, embodiment, and communication, we argue for a capacity‐based anthropology that takes account of human variation in all domains of everyday life, including “the field” and “the anthropology seminar.” Such an approach allows us to consider the ways that humans are differently malleable, and we stress that enacting malleability, when possible, is a kind of ethical engagement. Attending to malleability—and its limits—allows us to imagine and produce a more sensitive anthropology. A more sensitive anthropology would expand the discipline's understanding of who counts as an anthropologist and what counts as anthropological praxis.
Maternal overweight and obesity and its association with metabolic changes and fetal overgrowth in the absence of gestational diabetes mellitus: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Monod Cécile , Kotzaeridi Grammata , Linder Tina , Yerlikaya‐Schatten Gülen , Wegener Silke , Mosimann Beatrice , Henrich Wolfgang , Tura Andrea , Göbl Christian S.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Previous studies indicated an association between fetal overgrowth and maternal obesity independent of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, the underlying mechanisms beyond this possible association are not completely understood. This study investigates metabolic changes and their association with fetal and neonatal biometry in overweight and obese mothers who remained normal glucose‐tolerant during gestation.

Material and methods

In this prospective cohort study 893 women who did not develop GDM were categorized according to their pregestational body mass index (BMI): 570 were normal weight, 220 overweight and 103 obese. Study participants received a broad metabolic evaluation before 16 weeks and were followed up until delivery to assess glucose levels during the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at mid‐gestation as well as fetal biometry in ultrasound and pregnancy outcome data.

Results

Increased maternal BMI was associated with an adverse metabolic profile at the beginning of pregnancy, including a lower degree of insulin sensitivity (as assessed by the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index) in overweight (mean difference: −2.4, 95% CI −2.9 to −1.9, p < 0.001) and obese (mean difference: −4.3, 95% CI −5.0 to −3.7, p < 0.001) vs normal weight women. Despite not fulfilling diagnosis criteria for GDM, overweight and obese mothers showed higher glucose levels at fasting and during the OGTT. Finally, we observed increased measures of fetal subcutaneous tissue thickness in ultrasound as well as higher proportions of large‐for‐gestational‐age infants in overweight (18.9%, odds ratio [OR] 1.74, 95% CI 1.08–2.78, p = 0.021) and obese mothers (21.0%, OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.06–3.59, p = 0.027) vs normal weight controls (11.8%). The risk for large for gestational age was further determined by OGTT glucose (60 min: OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02–1.21, p = 0.013; 120 min: OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.02–1.27, P = 0.025, for the increase of 10 mg/dL) and maternal triglyceride concentrations (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.01–1.22, p = 0.036, for the increase of 20 mg/dL).

Conclusions

Mothers affected by overweight or obesity but not GDM had a higher risk for fetal overgrowth. An impaired metabolic milieu related to increased maternal BMI as well as higher glucose levels at mid‐gestation may impact fetal overgrowth in women still in the range of normal glucose tolerance.
Influence of pelvic floor muscle training alone or as part of a general physical activity program during pregnancy on urinary incontinence, episiotomy and third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal tear: Systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Zhang Dingfeng , Bo Kari , Montejo Rocío , Sánchez‐Polán Miguel , Silva‐José Cristina , Palacio Montse , Barakat Rubén
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The complex process of pregnancy and childbirth significantly influences the well‐being of both mother and child. Today all pregnant women without medical contraindications are recommended to start or continue regular aerobic and strength training for at least 150 min per week to prevent pregnancy‐related diseases and conditions. Urinary incontinence in pregnancy, episiotomy and third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal tear during labor can greatly impact womens’ health, quality of life and ability to be physically active. The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) during pregnancy in the prevention of urinary incontinence, episiotomy, and third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal tear.

Material and methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis (CRD42022370600) was performed. Only randomized clinical trials published between 2010 and 2023 were included. The following databases were examined: EBSCO (including Academic Search Premier, Education Resources Information Center, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus and OpenDissertations databases), Clinicaltrials.gov, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro). Three meta‐analyses to investigate the effect of PFMT exclusively or implemented as a section within a physical activity program during pregnancy on urinary incontinence, episiotomy, and third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal tear were conducted.

Results

Thirty studies were analyzed (N = 6691). An effective preventive action of PFMT was found for urinary incontinence (z = 3.46; p < 0.0005; relative risk [RR] = 0.72, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.59, 0.87, I2 = 59%) and third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal tear (z = 2.89; p = 0.004; RR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.31, 0.80, I2 = 48%) but not for episiotomy (z = 0.80; p = 0.42; RR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.85, 1.07, I2 = 75%).

Conclusions

PFMT during pregnancy proves to be an effective preventive intervention for reducing the risk of urinary incontinence and the occurrence of third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal tears. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating PFMT into antenatal care and training programs to improve maternal well‐being and overall childbirth outcomes.
Pediatric epilepsy syndromes with associated developmental impairment
Authors: Nordli Douglas R. , Mclaren John R. , Araujo Gabriel , Gupta Megan , Nordli Douglas R. , Galan Fernando
Published: December 2023

In 2022, the International League Against Epilepsy revised their classification of epilepsy syndromes for clinicians to better understand the relationships between different epilepsy syndromes, their underlying causes, and their associated developmental and behavioral features. This review highlights portions of the current classification with an emphasis on epilepsy syndromes that readily present with developmental challenges and provides a unique framework, based on electroencephalography, to easily identify and understand these syndromes. Included in this review are a helpful categorization scheme with visual aid, descriptions of updated epilepsy syndromes, figures of relevant identifiers of syndrome and information regarding future directions toward treatment and research. Covered syndromes include developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, Dravet syndrome, Rasmussen syndrome, and infantile epileptic spasm syndrome, among others.

What this paper adds

The revised epilepsy syndrome classification by the International League Against Epilepsy aims to improve the outcomes for children with epilepsy.

The electroencephalography features of epilepsy syndromes are grouped based on a categorization model.

This model allows clinicians to understand overlapping phenotypes and aid with both identification and diagnosis.
GPCR‐G protein selectivity revealed by structural pharmacology
Authors: Bernhard Sarah M. , Han Jianming , Che Tao
Published: December 2023

Receptor‐G protein promiscuity is frequently observed in class A G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs). In particular, GPCRs can couple with G proteins from different families (Gαs, Gαq/11, Gαi/o, and Gα12/13) or the same family subtypes. The molecular basis underlying the selectivity/promiscuity is not fully revealed. We recently reported the structures of kappa opioid receptor (KOR) in complex with the Gi/o family subtypes [Gαi1, GαoA, Gαz, and Gustducin (Gαg)] determined by cryo‐electron microscopy (cryo‐EM). The structural analysis, in combination with pharmacological studies, provides insights into Gi/o subtype selectivity. Given the conserved sequence identity and activation mechanism between different G protein families, the findings within Gi/o subtypes could be likely extended to other families. Understanding the KOR‐Gi/o or GPCR‐G protein selectivity will facilitate the development of more precise therapeutics targeting a specific G protein subtype.
Relative importance between nitrification and denitrification to N2O from a global perspective
Authors: Han Bingbing , Yao Yanzhong , Liu Bin , Wang Yini , Su Xiaoxuan , Ma Lihua , Liu Dunyi , Niu Shuli , Chen Xinping , Li Zhaolei
Published: December 2023

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a potent greenhouse gas, and its mitigation is a pressing task in the coming decade. However, it remains unclear which specific process between concurrent nitrification and denitrification dominates worldwide N2O emission. We snagged an opportunity to ascertain whence the N2O came and which were the controlling factors on the basis of 1315 soil N2O observations from 74 peer‐reviewed articles. The average N2O emission derived from nitrification (N2On) was higher than that from denitrification (N2Od) worldwide. The ratios of nitrification‐derived N2O to denitrification‐derived N2O, hereof N2On:N2Od, exhibited large variations across terrestrial ecosystems. Although soil carbon and nitrogen content, pH, moisture, and clay content accounted for a part of the geographical variations in the N2On:N2Od ratio, ammonia‐oxidizing microorganisms (AOM):denitrifier ratio was the pivotal driver for the N2On:N2Od ratios, since the AOM:denitrfier ratio accounted for 53.7% of geographical variations in N2On:N2Od ratios. Compared with natural ecosystems, soil pH exerted a more remarkable role to dictate the N2On:N2Od ratio in croplands. This study emphasizes the vital role of functional soil microorganisms in geographical variations of N2On:N2Od ratio and lays the foundation for the incorporation of soil AOM:denitrfier ratio into models to better predict N2On:N2Od ratio. Identifying soil N2O derivation will provide a global potential benchmark for N2O mitigation by manipulating the nitrification or denitrification.
Tracheobronchial stents: an expanding prospect
Authors: Lilburn Paul , Williamson Jonathan P. , Phillips Martin , Tillekeratne Nikela , Ing Alvin , Glanville Allan , Saghaie Tajalli
Published: December 2023

The first dedicated tracheobronchial silicone stent was designed by the French pulmonologist Jean‐Paul Dumon. The most common indications for stenting are to minimise extrinsic airway compression from mass effect, maintain airway patency due to intrinsic obstruction or treat significant nonmalignant airway narrowing or fistulae. Silicone stents require rigid bronchoscopy for insertion; however, they are more readily repositioned and removed compared with metallic stents. Metallic stents demonstrate luminal narrowing when loads are applied to their ends, therefore stents should either be reinforced at the ends or exceed the area of stenosis by a minimum of 5 mm. Nitinol, a nickel‐titanium metal alloy, is currently the preferred material used for airway stents. Airway stenting provides effective palliation for patients with severe symptomatic obstruction. Drug‐eluting and three‐dimensional printing of airway stents present promising solutions to the challenges of the physical and anatomical constraints of the tracheobronchial tree. Biodegradable stents could also be a solution for the treatment of nonmalignant airway obstruction.
Inflammatory plasma signature of chronic hand eczema: Associations with aetiological and clinical subtypes
Authors: Quaade Anna Sophie , Wang Xing , Sølberg Julie B. K. , McCauley Benjamin D. , Thyssen Jacob P. , Becker Christine , Johansen Jeanne Duus
Published: December 2023

Background

Chronic hand eczema (CHE) is a highly prevalent, heterogeneous, skin disease that encompasses different aetiological and clinical subtypes. Severe CHE without atopic dermatitis has been associated with systemic inflammation; yet it remains unknown if specific CHE subtypes leave distinct, systemic, molecular signatures.

Objectives

To characterize the inflammatory plasma signature of different aetiological and clinical CHE subtypes.

Methods

We assessed expression levels of 266 inflammatory and cardiovascular disease risk plasma proteins as well as filaggrin gene mutation status in 51 well‐characterized CHE patients without concomitant atopic dermatitis and 40 healthy controls. Plasma protein expression was compared between aetiological and clinical CHE subgroups and controls both overall and according to clinical CHE severity. Correlation analyses for biomarkers, clinical and self‐reported variables were performed.

Results

Very severe, chronic allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) on the hands was associated with a mixed Type 1/Type 2 systemic immune activation as compared with controls. Circulating levels of Type 1/Type 2 inflammatory biomarkers correlated positively with clinical disease severity among CHE patients with ACD. No biomarkers were found, that could discriminate between aetiological subtypes, for example, between ACD and irritant contact dermatitis. Hyperkeratotic CHE showed a distinct, non‐atopic dermatitis‐like, systemic footprint with upregulation of markers associated with Type 1 inflammation and tumour necrosis factor alpha, but not Type 2 inflammation. Increased levels of CCL19 and CXCL9/10 could discriminate hyperkeratotic CHE from both vesicular and chronic fissured CHE, whereas no difference was found between the latter two subtypes.

Conclusion

Profiling of systemic biomarkers showed potential for identifying certain CHE subtypes. Peripheral blood levels of inflammatory biomarkers were associated and correlated with the clinical disease severity of chronic ACD on the hands, underlining that this is a systemic disease. We question whether hyperkeratotic CHE should be classified as eczema.
Study of the frequencies of erythrocyte abnormalities as in situ biomarkers of genotoxic risk of chemicals in special fish stock in water supply reservoirs
Authors: Řehulka Jiří , Bradík Jaroslav
Published: December 2023

In three water‐supply reservoirs in the catchment area of the Odra River (Czech Republic), a special fish stock was monitored for control of health to estimate the mutagenic effect of chemicals. The results contribute to obtaining initial information about the morphology of erythrocyte abnormalities classified in 21 categories in 16 fish species in reservoirs with abundant salmonids (the Morávka Reservoir) or with the prevalence of cyprinids (the Kružberk and Šance Reservoirs), not directly exposed to the adverse environmental effects such as industrial, urban, agricultural and intensive farming activities. The different intensities and prevalence of nuclear abnormalities (NA) and cytoplasmic abnormalities (CA) in fish from the same reservoir habitat show that to be able to obtain an objective view of the genotoxic risk of chemicals, it is necessary to respect the different requirements of the fish for the exploitation of the food available in the biotope and to subject all representatives of piscivorous, omnivorous and benthophagous fishes in the reservoir to cytogenetic analysis. The occurrence of certain categories of erythrocyte abnormalities in diseased fish draws attention to the need to know the state of health of the fish and to employ this knowledge to exclude parasitological, viral and other infectious agents. These results are the first report of the frequencies of erythrocyte abnormalities in native fish. They should serve to check which of the categories examined could be of use in assessing the genotoxic risk in other stagnant and running aquatic ecosystems affected by anthropogenic activities.
Monitoring flood and drought risks in arid and semi‐arid regions using remote sensing data and standardized precipitation index: A case study of Syria
Authors: Abd‐Elhamid Hany F. , Zeleňáková Martina , Soľáková Tatiana , Saleh O. K. , El‐Dakak Amr M.
Published: December 2023

Flood and drought are natural phenomena whose probability of occurrence increases with changing weather conditions. Climate change has affected the hydrologic cycle's parameters and led to changes in temperature and precipitation pattern, which may increase the probability of occurrence of floods and droughts. Arid and semi‐arid areas are subject to extreme weather conditions and water resources scarcity. This study aims to assess drought and flood in Syria using remote sensing data. Monthly precipitation data have been collected from 10 land stations in the western part of Syria for the period (1991–2009) and satellite images for monthly precipitation from 1983 to 2020 were collected. The land stations data were used to correct the satellite images and correction equation was developed for each station. Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) is used for analysis of drought and flood. Also, the main parameters for drought and flood, severity, intensity, duration, and the average return time were estimated. The results showed extreme flood events were recorded in 1988, 2002, 2012, and 2019 and extreme drought events were recorded in 1990, 2014, and 2016. The highest severity of drought and flood were recorded in 2014 and 1988 respectively. However, the highest intensity of droughts and floods was recorded in 2016 and 1988, respectively. If land station data are unavailable, as in the case of Syria owing to the protracted war, satellite images may be a useful source of data for drought and flood analysis after correction. This methodology can help in drought/flood analysis and estimate severity, intensity, duration, and the average return time of flood and drought in other locations of the world. The results proved that SPI is a useful tool to predict the time of occurrence of both flood and drought that could help decision‐makers for putting efficient plans for flood and drought risk management that could mitigate the impacts of such risks.