bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors with risk of incident dementia and all‐cause mortality in older patients with type 2 diabetes: A retrospective cohort study using the TriNetX US collaborative networks
Authors: Pai Yen‐Wei , Chen I‐Chieh , Lin Jun‐Fu , Chen Xiao‐Hui , Chen Hsin‐Hua , Chang Ming‐Hong , Huang Jin‐An , Lin Ching‐Heng
Published: September 2024

Background

Limited evidence exists to support any specific medication over others to prevent dementia in older patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). We investigated whether treatment with sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT‐2) inhibitors is associated with a lower risk of incident dementia and all‐cause mortality, relative to dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitors and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RA).

Methods

In this retrospective, active‐comparator cohort study, we used data from the TriNetX electronic health records network. Our primary cohort comprised patients with T2D aged ≥50 years, registered between January 2012 and December 2022. Patients with a history of dementia were excluded. We used Kaplan–Meier survival analysis to estimate the incidence of dementia and all‐cause mortality in our cohort after they had used glucose‐lowering drugs for at least 12 months. Propensity score matching was performed to balance the SGLT‐2 inhibitor, DPP‐4 inhibitor and GLP‐1 RA cohorts. Subgroup analyses for sex and age were also conducted.

Results

Our first cohort comprised 193 948 patients treated with metformin and SGLT‐2 inhibitors and an equal number of patients treated with metformin and DPP‐4 inhibitors. In this cohort, the risk of dementia and all‐cause mortality was lower in patients treated with SGLT‐2 inhibitors than in those treated with DPP‐4 inhibitors (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.59–0.65, for dementia; HR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.52–0.56, for all‐cause mortality).

Our second cohort comprised 165 566 patients treated with metformin and SGLT‐2 inhibitors and an equal number of patients treated with metformin and GLP‐1 RAs. In this cohort, the risk of dementia and all‐cause mortality was lower in those treated with SGLT‐2 inhibitors than in those treated with GLP‐1 RAs (HR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.87–0.98, for dementia; HR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.85–0.91, for all‐cause mortality).

Conclusions

The use of SGLT‐2 inhibitor was associated with a lower risk of incident dementia and all‐cause mortality in older adults with T2D compared to DPP‐4 inhibitor and GLP‐1 RA.
Tullock contest with reference‐dependent preferences
Authors: Fallucchi Francesco , Trevisan Francesco
Published: September 2024

We study the Tullock contest model with loss aversion and endogenously formed reference points. In a contest with n possibly heterogeneous players and convex effort costs, we establish sufficient conditions for a unique Nash equilibrium in pure strategies. Subsequently, we analyze the impact of loss aversion on players' spending behavior, probability of winning, and rent dissipation.
CATME‐B in Secondary Education: Exploring the Perceptions of Students and Teachers
Authors: Vanhove Amelie , Opdecam Evelien , Mestdagh Sarah , Haerens Leen
Published: September 2024

To date, no widely used, scientifically validated instruments designed for assessing secondary education students' teamwork skills exist. As CATME‐B shows promising results and might suit secondary education's needs best, this study offers an initial investigation on (1) how students and teachers perceive the use of CATME‐B in secondary education to assess students' teamwork skills and (2) whether CATME‐B is effective in detecting changes in students' perceived teamwork skills when a group assignment is introduced. A mixed‐methods in‐depth approach with a smaller group of 79 students (surveys before and after a group assignment) and three teachers (semi‐structured interviews) was adopted, offering a multi‐actor perspective. Results revealed that students perceived CATME‐B as feasible to use for self‐ and peer‐assessment. Although teachers were more focused on practical impediments, they appreciated its content and offered valuable suggestions for using CATME‐B in secondary education. Additionally, CATME‐B was able to detect significant changes in students' perceived teamwork skills in the context of a group assignment.
Are Younger Students More Likely to Drop Out? Spanish Evidence on the Moderator Role of Gender and Social Origin
Authors: Requena Miguel , Valdés Manuel T.
Published: September 2024

Early school leaving (ESL) is considered one of the most serious problems in the functioning of European education systems. In particular, Spain has traditionally exhibited one of the largest ESL rates in Europe. This study aimed to shed light on the role of the month of birth as a factor conditioning the probability of ESL. Using high‐quality census data and a regression discontinuity design, we documented that Spanish males from lower social strata born before the school‐entry cut‐off are substantially more likely to be observed as early school leavers than their counterparts born after that date. We do not find such effect among females or males from other social strata. Overall, educational policy should target more seriously the inequalities associated with the month of birth as they do not vanish before affecting relevant decisions such as leaving education early, at least for males from lower social strata.
The European Semester as a Policy Instrument in Education—The Cases of Spain and Sweden
Authors: Rambla Xavier , Alexiadou Nafsika
Published: September 2024

In this article we examine the European Semester as an innovative form of policy coordination, with distinct effects on education and skills policies for Member States. We analyse the Semester's framing of education policy, and examine its manifestations in Spain and Sweden, two countries considered to be different in their approach to education. Drawing on a policy instrumentation approach and interviews with policy actors and documentary analysis, our research suggests that while the Semester has given education policy a significant place within the EU's governance, economic rationales for education are clearly dominant in the process. Still, we identify underpinning logics that strengthen the social and educational perspectives represented in the Semester, although these are still treated as productive forces for labour market integration. In addition, there is a strengthening of collaboration between the European Commission and Member States, but also tensions between different parts of the Commission over the definition and direction of education policy.
Relationship between growth and ambulation loss in Duchenne muscular dystrophy boys on steroids
Authors: Stimpson Georgia , Ridout Deborah , Sarkozy Anna , Manzur Adnan , Muntoni Francesco , Baranello Giovanni ,   the NorthStar Network
Published: September 2024

Background and purpose

Treatment with glucocorticoids (GCs) is part of the standard of care in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, but excess weight gain and height stunting are common side‐effects. It is still unclear how these growth‐related side‐effects affect motor function.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study utilized 2228 observations from 648 participants in the UK NorthStar database who had growth and ambulation data recorded between 2006 and 2020. Joint modelling was used to analyse the effect of longitudinal growth centiles on loss of ambulation with respect to GC type and regimen.

Results

Loss of ambulation was observed in 113 patients. National estimates of loss of ambulation age were updated by GC group and showed no significant association between loss of ambulation risk and absolute growth centile. However, yearly drift in weight and/or height centile had an associated risk effect on loss of ambulation. Over a 2‐year period, a yearly drift in weight from the 50th to the 75th, 75th to the 90th and 90th to the 95th centile was associated with 138%, 118% and 64% increased risk of loss of ambulation, respectively. Conversely, a 2‐year drift in height from the 50th to the 25th, 25th to the 10th and 10th to the 5th centile was associated with 53%, 49% and 35% decreased risk of loss of ambulation, respectively.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a complex relationship between growth and loss of ambulation in Duchenne muscular dystrophy boys on chronic GCs, the first step in understanding the effects of drugs which also affect growth patterns.
Involvement of different K+ channel subtypes in hydrogen sulfide‐induced vasorelaxation of human internal mammary artery
Authors: Marinko Marija , Stojanovic Ivan , Milojevic Predrag , Nenezic Dragoslav , Kanjuh Vladimir , Yang Qin , He Guo‐Wei , Novakovic Aleksandra
Published: September 2024

Background

Changes in K+ channel expression/function are associated with disruption of vascular reactivity in several pathological conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. Gasotransmitters achieve part of their effects in the organism by regulating ion channels, especially K+ channels. Their involvement in hydrogen sulfide (H2S)‐mediated vasorelaxation is still unclear, and data about human vessels are limited.

Objective

To determine the role of K+ channel subtypes in the vasorelaxant mechanism of H2S donor, sodium‐hydrosulfide (NaHS), on isolated human internal mammary artery (HIMA).

Results

NaHS (1 × 10−6–3 × 10−3 mol/L) induced a concentration‐dependent relaxation of HIMA pre‐contracted by phenylephrine and high K+. Among K+ channel blockers, iberiotoxin, glibenclamide, 4‐aminopyridine (4‐AP), and margatoxin significantly inhibited NaHS‐induced relaxation of phenylephrine‐contracted HIMA (P < 0.01), whereas in the presence of apamin/1‐[(2‐chlorophenyl) diphenylmethyl]‐1H‐pyrazole (TRAM‐34) combination, the HIMA relaxation was partially reduced (P < 0.05). The effect of NaHS was antagonized by NO pathway inhibitors, L‐NAME and KT5823, and by cyclo‐oxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin (P < 0.01). Under conditions of blocked NO/prostacyclin synthesis and release, apamin/TRAM‐34 and glibenclamide caused further decrease in NaHS‐induced vasorelaxation (P < 0.01), while iberiotoxin, 4‐AP, and margatoxin were without additional effect (P > 0.05). In the presence of nifedipine, NaHS induced partial relaxation of HIMA (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that H2S donor, NaHS, induced concentration‐dependent relaxation of isolated HIMA. Vasorelaxant mechanisms of H2S included direct or indirect opening of different K+ channel subtypes, KATP, BKCa, SKCa/IKCa, and KV (subtype KV1.3), in addition to NO pathway activation and interference with extracellular Ca2+ influx.
Divergent neural nodes are species‐ and hormone‐dependent in the brood parasitic brain
Authors: Duque Fernanda G. , Azam Asma , Kaur Amanpreet , Pao Rachel , Lynch Kathleen S.
Published: September 2024

Avian brood parasitism is an evolutionarily derived behavior for which the neurobiological mechanisms are mostly unexplored. We aimed to identify brain regions that have diverged in the brood‐parasitic brain using relative transcript abundance of social neuropeptides and receptors. We compared behavioral responses and transcript abundance in three brain regions in the brown‐headed cowbird (BHCO), a brood parasite, and a closely related parental species, the red‐winged blackbird (RWBL). Females of both species were treated with mesotocin (MT; avian homolog of oxytocin) or saline prior to exposure to nest stimuli. Results reveal that MT promotes approach toward nests with eggs rather than nests with begging nestlings in both species. We also examined relative transcript abundance of the five social neuropeptides and receptors in the brain regions examined: preoptic area (POA), paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST). We found that MT‐treated cowbirds but not blackbirds exhibited lower transcript abundance for two receptors, corticotropin‐releasing factor 2 (CRFR2) and prolactin receptor (PRLR) in BST. Additionally, MT‐treated cowbirds had higher PRLR in POA, comparable to those found in blackbirds, regardless of treatment. No other transcripts of interest exhibited significant differences as a result of MT treatment, but we found a significant effect of species in the three regions. Together, these results indicate that POA, PVN, and BST represent neural nodes that have diverged in avian brood parasites and may serve as neural substrates of brood‐parasitic behavior.
Dose‐dependent effects of histone methyltransferase NSD2 on site‐specific double‐strand break repair
Authors: Iwasaki Koh , Tojo Akari , Kobayashi Haruka , Shimizu Kai , Kamimura Yoshitaka , Horikoshi Yasunori , Fukuto Atsuhiko , Sun Jiying , Yasui Manabu , Honma Masamitsu , Okabe Atsushi , Fujiki Ryoji , Nakajima Nakako Izumi , Kaneda Atsushi , Tashiro Satoshi , Sassa Akira , Ura Kiyoe
Published: September 2024

Histone modifications are catalyzed and recognized by specific proteins to regulate dynamic DNA metabolism processes. NSD2 is a histone H3 lysine 36 (H3K36)‐specific methyltransferase that is associated with both various transcription regulators and DNA repair factors. Specifically, it has been implicated in the repair of DNA double‐strand breaks (DSBs); however, the role of NSD2 during DSB repair remains enigmatic. Here, we show that NSD2 does not accumulate at DSB sites and that it is not further mobilized by DSB formation. Using three different DSB repair reporter systems, which contained the endonuclease site in the active thymidine kinase gene (TK) locus, we demonstrated separate dose‐dependent effects of NSD2 on homologous recombination (HR), canonical‐non‐homologous end joining (c‐NHEJ), and non‐canonical‐NHEJ (non‐c‐NHEJ). Endogenous NSD2 has a role in repressing non‐c‐NHEJ, without affecting DSB repair efficiency by HR or total NHEJ. Furthermore, overexpression of NSD2 promotes c‐NHEJ repair and suppresses HR repair. Therefore, we propose that NSD2 has functions in chromatin integrity at the active regions during DSB repair.
SOX17 expression in mesonephric‐like adenocarcinomas and mesonephric remnants/hyperplasia of the female genital tract: Expanding its utility as a Müllerian biomarker
Authors: Zhang Xiaoming , McCluggage W. Glenn , Howitt Brooke E , Hirsch Michelle S
Published: September 2024

Aims

Recently, SOX17 has emerged as a promising biomarker for non‐mucinous Müllerian (ovarian and endometrial) carcinomas, demonstrating increased specificity in comparison to PAX8 while maintaining similar sensitivity. However, expression of SOX17 in mesonephric‐like adenocarcinoma (MLA), a carcinoma of the female genital tract with uncertain, but probably Müllerian histogenesis, remains unexplored. This study aims to address this gap.

Methods and results

SOX17 immunohistochemistry was performed on whole tissue sections from 68 MLAs originating from the endometrium or ovary and seven cervical mesonephric carcinomas, as well as six mesonephric remnants/hyperplasias. Using a four‐tiered scoring system based on distribution and intensity of staining, 68% of MLA displayed a negative/low (< 10%) SOX17 expression pattern, which contrasts with the high expression observed in most Müllerian carcinomas. However, 22% of MLA demonstrated high SOX17 expression, similar to other endometrial and ovarian carcinomas. Similarly, five of seven (72%) mesonephric carcinomas of the cervix were SOX17‐negative, but two cases (28%) were positive. All mesonephric remnants/hyperplasias were SOX17 negative.

Conclusions

The majority of MLA are negative or exhibit low SOX17 expression, in contrast to the diffuse and strong expression commonly seen in other types of Müllerian carcinoma. However, a subset of MLAs demonstrate high SOX17 expression. Therefore, absence of SOX17 staining is supportive for MLA when the differential includes another non‐mucinous Müllerian carcinoma. SOX17 may also be useful for differentiating mesonephric remnants/hyperplasias from Müllerian malignancies and benign Müllerian glandular lesions.
Decontamination of ochratoxin A from raisins by different processes: evaluation of efficiency and quality attributes
Authors: Ertek Gülce , Kutlu Bengünur , Taştan Özge , Şahyar Buket , Çil Hande , Baysal Taner
Published: September 2024

In this research, the effects of washing treatments (potassium carbonate (PC), potassium hydroxide (PH), peracetic acid (PA), alkaline hydrogen peroxide (AHP)), ultrasound (US) and high‐intensity pulsed light (HIPL) technologies on the removal of ochratoxin A (OTA) residues in raisins were investigated. PC at 5 min (66.60%), PH at 10 min (65.25%), alkaline hydrogen peroxide at 5 min (63.30%) and HIPL at 12 J cm−2 (62.50%) were found to be the most successful applications in OTA degradation, respectively. Although the OTA degradation rate was high after chemical washing for 10 min, the raisins had a chemical odour. The results show that HIPL effectively reduces OTA levels in raisins without causing any quality loss.
Influences of appearance characteristics on consumer perception of ‘gu‐soo’ in fermented soybean paste (doenjang)
Authors: Kim Ye‐Won , Hwang Ji‐sun , Kim Mina K.
Published: September 2024

Doenjang, one of the representative soybean‐fermented foods in Korea, is a widely consumed food ingredient of stew, soup, and sauce/dip. In Korea, the term ‘gu‐soo’ is widely used to describe sensory characteristics of doenjang. Previous studies have reported that appearance characteristics such as colour, moisture content, and bean‐to‐paste ratio may affect consumer perception of gu‐soo in doenjang. The purpose of this study was to determine effects of appearance characteristics such as colour and bean‐to‐paste ratio on consumers' perception of gu‐soo in doenjang. A total of nine doenjang samples with three different colours and three different bean‐and‐paste ratios (0%, 25%, and 50%) were prepared. Consumer (N = 101) tests were conducted to measure consumer perception and acceptance of nine samples. Check‐all‐that‐apply (CATA) test on sensory characteristics perceived by each doenjang was also conducted. As a result of the CATA test, doenjang samples made of the same type of doenjang were perceived to have similar sensory characteristics. Having high levels of beans in the paste did not affect the liking attribute or consumer perception of ‘gu‐soo’ in doenjang (P > 0.05). Overall, consumers' perception of gu‐soo were influenced by the colour of doenjang (P < 0.05). This study found out that the colour of doenjang was more important in consumer perception of ‘gu‐soo’ in doenjang than bean content in the paste.
Effects of wheat bran flour, oat flour, and Dictyophora indusiata powder on physical, chemical, sensorial, and in vitro digestibility of wheat noodles
Authors: Luo Man , Zhang Heng , Wang Zhengxuan , Brennan Margaret , Soteyome Thanapop , Qin Yuyue , Brennan Charles
Published: September 2024

Wheat bran, oat flour, and Dictyophora indusiata powder were used to substitute wheat flour in noodle production. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of wheat bran flour, oat flour, and Dictyophora indusiata powder on physical, chemical, sensorial, and in vitro digestibility of wheat noodles. Results indicated that the addition of wheat bran flour, oat flour, and Dictyophora indusiata powder decreased the lightness, chewiness, and the reducing sugar released during digestion of noodles, and their estimated glycaemic index. The viscosity value of noodles decreased with Dictyophora indusiata powder addition solely. The protein, and dietary fibre of wheat noodle increased at 10% Dictyophora indusiata powder, and 10% oat flour blended with wheat flour, and the estimated glycaemic index lowered significantly with the addition of 10% wheat bran flour, and 10% Dictyophora indusiata powder.
Exopolysaccharides from Weissella cibaria isolated from oats: isolation, characterisation and its application in improving the texture of set‐type yogurt
Authors: Nguyen Vinh‐Lam , Nguyen Nhu‐Ngoc , Do Anh Duy , Nguyen Thanh‐Sang , Nguyen Quoc‐Duy
Published: September 2024

In this study, a lactic acid bacteria strain isolated from oats was used as a producer to obtain exopolysaccharide (EPS) using MRS agar plates. The findings indicated that the bacterial strain identified as Weissella cibaria (accession number: PP515290) was shown to have good probiotic activity, adapt better to alkaline than acidic conditions, and efficiently produce EPS at concentrations of up to 7.93 g L−1. SEM images showed a smooth surface and compact particle whereas FTIR confirmed the basic functional groups of polysaccharides in the sample. Meanwhile, XRD analysis demonstrated a non‐crystalline amorphous structure and thermal analysis indicated two‐phase thermal decomposition with maximum rate at 210 °C. Subsequently, EPS from W. cibaria was applied as stabiliser in set‐type yogurt (ex situ) in comparison with yogurt using mixed culture with W. cibaria (in situ) and traditional starter culture (control). The results showed that the addition of 2% EPS significantly improved syneresis (14.31%) compared to co‐culture (27.50%) and control (29.80%) as well as increased hardness of yogurt during 2‐week refrigeration.
Pathogenic role of anti‐nuclear autoantibodies in systemic sclerosis: Insights from other rheumatic diseases
Authors: van Oostveen Wieke M. , Huizinga Tom W. J. , Fehres Cynthia M.
Published: September 2024

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a severe autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy, fibrosis, and dysregulated immunity, with hallmark autoantibodies targeting nuclear antigens such as centromere protein (ACA) and topoisomerase I (ATA). These autoantibodies are highly prevalent and disease‐specific, rarely coexisting, thus serving as crucial biomarkers for SSc diagnosis. Despite their diagnostic value, their roles in SSc pathogenesis remain unclear. This review summarizes current literature on ACA and ATA in SSc, comparing them to autoantibodies in other rheumatic diseases to elucidate their potential pathogenic roles. Similarities are drawn with anti‐citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) in rheumatoid arthritis, particularly regarding disease specificity and minimal pathogenic impact of antigen binding. In addition, differences between ANA and ACPA in therapeutic responses and Fab glycosylation patterns are reviewed. While ACA and ATA are valuable for disease stratification and monitoring activity, understanding their origins and the associated B cell responses is critical for advancing therapeutic strategies for SSc.
KIAA0753 enhances osteoblast differentiation suppressed by diabetes
Authors: Li Mengxue , Wang Yongqin , Wu Xiangmei , Chen Quanmei , Huang Jianguo , Zhu Huifang , Yang Shengyong , Wang Jichun , Li Le Tai , Liu Xianjun , Fu Kang , Song Fangzhou , Wang Changdong
Published: September 2024

Diabetes‐related bone loss represents a significant complication that persistently jeopardizes the bone health of individuals with diabetes. Primary cilia proteins have been reported to play a vital role in regulating osteoblast differentiation in diabetes‐related bone loss. However, the specific contribution of KIAA0753, a primary cilia protein, in bone loss induced by diabetes remains unclear. In this investigation, we elucidated the pivotal role of KIAA0753 as a promoter of osteoblast differentiation in diabetes. RNA sequencing demonstrated a marked downregulation of KIAA0753 expression in pro‐bone MC3T3 cells exposed to a high glucose environment. Diabetes mouse models further validated the downregulation of KIAA0753 protein in the femur. Diabetes was observed to inhibit osteoblast differentiation in vitro, evidenced by downregulating the protein expression of OCN, OPN and ALP, decreasing primary cilia biosynthesis, and suppressing the Hedgehog signalling pathway. Knocking down KIAA0753 using shRNA methods was found to shorten primary cilia. Conversely, overexpression KIAA0753 rescued these changes. Additional insights indicated that KIAA0753 effectively restored osteoblast differentiation by directly interacting with SHH, OCN and Gli2, thereby activating the Hedgehog signalling pathway and mitigating the ubiquitination of Gli2 in diabetes. In summary, we report a negative regulatory relationship between KIAA0753 and diabetes‐related bone loss. The clarification of KIAA0753's role offers valuable insights into the intricate mechanisms underlying diabetic bone complications.
Cathepsin B in cardiovascular disease: Underlying mechanisms and therapeutic strategies
Authors: Cai Zhulan , Xu Shunyao , Liu Chen
Published: September 2024

Cathepsin B (CTSB) is a member of the cysteine protease family, primarily responsible for degrading unnecessary organelles and proteins within the acidic milieu of lysosomes to facilitate recycling. Recent research has revealed that CTSB plays a multifaceted role beyond its function as a proteolytic enzyme in lysosomes. Importantly, recent data suggest that CTSB has significant impacts on different cardiac pathological conditions, such as atherosclerosis (AS), myocardial infarction, hypertension, heart failure and cardiomyopathy. Especially in the context of AS, preclinical models and clinical sample imaging data indicate that the cathepsin activity‐based probe can reliably image CTSB activity in foam cells and atherosclerotic plaques; concurrently, it allows synchronous diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. However, our knowledge of CTSB in cardiovascular disease is still in the early stage. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the significance of CTSB in cardiovascular physiology and pathology, with the objective of laying a theoretical groundwork for the development of drugs targeting CTSB.
Impact of planting and harvest dates on yam infestation by white grubs
Authors: Exilien Romain , Tescar Robers Pierre , Augustin Holken , Cadestin Dorensky , Carvil Nicolas , Duvivier Predner , Doreus Gelin , Griesheimer Jessi
Published: September 2024

The white grub, Diaprepes abbreviatus L. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), is a significant pest of yam tubers and the second cause of tuber rot in Haiti. Larval feeding inflicts severe damage to tubers, leading to notable losses due to decreased tuber quality, reduced marketability and increased susceptibility to secondary parasites and pathogens. This study examined the influence of planting and harvesting dates on the vulnerability of yam tubers to white grub infestation and the resulting tuber quality across 24 farmers' fields. At harvest, we assessed the level of tuber infestation, white grub density and the tuber quality index. The results indicated that 85% of grub populations were found in fields planted on the traditional date. In addition, 69.5% of tuber damage occurred in early‐planted fields with fewer tubers damaged (30%) when harvested early. In contrast, in fields planted 30 days after the traditional date, the harvest date did not affect tuber infestation and damage by the pest. Overall, both planting and harvest dates impacted the quality grade of yam tubers. Delayed planting by 30 days and early harvesting (34th–38th week after planting) improved the marketability of yams. These findings highlight the importance of optimising planting and harvest schedules to better manage white grub infestation and enhance the marketability of yam tubers.
Swimming performance, but not metabolism, is related to a boldness‐activity syndrome in schoolmaster snapper (Lutjanus apodus)
Authors: Malorey Peter , Porter Emma S. , Gamperl A. Kurt , Briffa Mark , Wilson Alexander D. M.
Published: September 2024

Commercial overexploitation and climate change can alter the physiology and behavior of marine organisms, although intraspecific phenotypic responses to such changes can vary greatly depending on the environment, species, and severity of the stressor. Under the pace‐of‐life syndrome (POLS) hypothesis, behavior, physiology, and life‐history traits are linked, and thus, affected by selection targeting any aspect of organismal biology. However, these links are understudied in tropical marine fishes, and further work is needed to better understand the impacts of fisheries and climate change on wild stocks. Moreover, tropical regions have a greater reliance on fisheries; thus investigations should focus on species with substantial socioeconomic value to ensure benefits at the local level. This study aimed to address this need by measuring the behavior (boldness and activity), metabolism, and swimming performance (using a critical swim speed [Ucrit] test) of schoolmaster snapper Lutjanus apodus in Eleuthera, the Bahamas. We report a strong positive correlation between boldness and activity, high repeatability of these behavioral metrics, and two groupings that were consistent with “proactive” and “reactive” behavioral types. These behavioral types differed significantly in their swimming performance, with reactive individuals having a 13.1% higher mean Ucrit. In contrast, no significant differences were found in the measured metabolic parameters between behavioral types. This study is the first to investigate the intraspecific links between behavior and physiology in a snapper species, using the novel and ecologically relevant comparison of Ucrit with behavioral syndrome types. These data suggest that additional research is needed to better predict the success of proactive/reactive tropical fish if overexploited and as influenced by climate change.
Solvent‐free crystallization for fractionation of virgin coconut oil: Effect of process conditions on kinetics and crystal properties
Authors: Singh Abhimanyu , Hebbar H. Umesh
Published: September 2024

This research was aimed to conduct solvent‐free crystallization and fractionation of virgin coconut oil (VCO). This study investigated the effect of surface contact area‐to‐volume ratio and mixing conditions on crystal characteristics. Commercially available VCO samples, extracted by different methods, were analyzed for fatty acid and triacylglycerol composition using GC–MS and UPLC–ELSD. VCO extracted through enzyme and chilling–thawing cycles exhibited higher medium chain fatty acids and medium chain triacylglycerols, which was selected for crystallization studies. Isothermal crystallization of VCO at 21°C assessed the effect of scale of crystallizer tube on cooling rate using Newton's law of cooling equation. The smaller tube (20 mm diameter) with a higher surface contact area‐to‐volume ratio produced 4.1‐fold faster cooling and a higher crystallization yield (44%) compared to the 80 mm diameter tube when no agitation was applied. Whereas mixing with a magnetic stirrer produced a large number of nuclei, generating intense crystallization heat, and rendering the crystals inseparable from liquid fraction. The process of VCO crystallization was also studied for kinetics and crystal growth mechanism using the Avrami model employing angled rotation of sample tube during non‐isothermal crystallization. Angled rotary mixing produced stable crystals and significantly increased the crystallization rate (t1/2 = 26.86 min) with polyhedral or spherulitic crystal growth (n = 3.25) compared to non‐mixing condition (t1/2 = 161.87 min) with restricted linear growth (n = 1.64). DSC analysis of VCO and its fractions obtained after crystallization using the 20 mm tube with angled rotary mixing indicated shifts in their thermogram peaks, suggesting differences in triacylglycerol compositions.

Practical applications

Virgin coconut oil (VCO) is well recognized for its health‐beneficial properties, yet its application is limited due to its complex triglyceride composition. The solvent‐free crystallization method facilitates VCO fractionation into phases with different melting points without hazardous solvents. The efficacy of this process is highly dependent on temperature, cooling rate, and agitation, which affects crystal morphology and growth kinetics. This study addresses these challenges in the scarcely investigated area of VCO crystallization. The resulting fractions can be customized for specific applications based on their altered functional properties in producing baking and confectionery coatings, salad dressings, and so on. The olein fraction obtained in this study can be utilized in nutraceutical formulations targeting digestive and cognitive health, as it is reported to be rich in medium chain triglycerides. This research optimizes process conditions, suggesting an efficient method for dry‐fractionating VCO, which is significantly associated with the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Biomechanics and morphological comparisons of the caudal region of titanosaurs from the Cretaceous of Brazil: Paleobiology and paleoecology inferences
Authors: Vidal Luciano S. , Bergqvist Lílian P. , Candeiro Carlos R. A. , Bandeira Kamila L. N. , Tavares Sandra , Ribeiro Theo B. , Pereira Paulo V. L. G. C.
Published: September 2024

Biomechanical studies in sauropod dinosaurs are mainly focused on neck posture and feeding strategy. Few works investigate other aspects such as tail movement and function, especially in the clade Titanosauria, the most diverse within Neosauropoda. This study applied biomechanical concepts of neutral pose (cartilaginous neutral pose) and range of motion to verify the shape and direction of the caudal region of the advanced titanosaurs Adamantisaurus mezzalirai and Baurutitan britoi, in addition to comparing it with other titanosaurs (e.g., Arrudatitan maximus, Lirainosaurus astibiae, and Trigonosaurus pricei). As a result, the tails analyzed have a sigmoidal‐convex shape, probably close to the ground (but not touching it). The sigmoidal‐convex shape could increase the moment arm for the M. caudofemoralis longus, making it possible to use the tail as a fifth stabilizing member. This work expands our knowledge about sauropod dinosaurs by exposing a diversity of shapes for the tails of titanosaur sauropods and brings new possibilities for how these dinosaurs could use their tails.
How different religiosity facets affect materialism, hedonistic shopping values, and compulsive buying: Toward mediation‐moderation effects
Authors: Tarka Piotr , Kukar‐Kinney Monika
Published: September 2024

This study offers interdisciplinary theoretical discussion connecting consumer behavior, values, self‐regulation, self‐determination, and religiosity concepts, and develops a conceptual model of the effects of consumer religiosity on compulsive buying. Complex sequential mediational mechanisms are investigated, involving the effects of unique religiosity facets on compulsive buying through materialistic values and hedonistic shopping values. Results show that intrinsic religiosity is negatively related with materialistic and hedonistic shopping values and compulsive buying, while the social extrinsic religiosity and personal extrinsic religiosity are positively related with these consumer values and the resulting compulsive buying. Compared with prior research, this study examines the three religiosity facets separately. This work also identifies the moderating role of gender, with all facets of religiosity exhibiting stronger relationships for women as compared with men. Theoretical and practical implications for consumers, policy makers, and marketers focus on the importance of maintenance of intrinsic religiosity orientation in personal life.
Evaluating the efficacy of local anesthetic techniques during scalp microneedling
Authors: Leonik Szymon , Smoczok Michał , Bergler‐Czop Beata
Published: September 2024

Introduction

An increasing interest in minimally invasive procedures hassled to a demand for an effective local anesthetic algorithm. The scalp presents a challenge in achieving effective anesthesia due to the presence of hair shafts. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of different methods during a microneedling procedure, including 25 mg lidocaine and 25 mg prilocaine cream, skin spray with 10% lidocaine, and cold gel compresses.

Materials and Methods

Sixty‐two men aged between 20 and 50 years underwent three microneedling treatments, each using a different method of anesthesia. The treatment area was divided into two equal parts, with one part exposed to a specific anesthetic method. Patients were asked to rate their pain on a 0–10 verbal analog scale. An attempt was made to objectify the results using algometry.

Results

A negative correlation was observed between the algometry results and the VAS score after the application of the cream and cold compresses.

Discussion

When choosing monotherapy, it is recommended to use cold gel compresses for scalp microneedling after considering the advantages and disadvantages of different methods.
The Emergence of New Sporothrix brasiliensis Genotypes in Current Epidemic of Sporotrichosis in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Colombo Salene Angelini , de Carvalho Jamile Ambrósio , Bicalho Gustavo Canesso , de Magalhães Soares Danielle Ferreira , de Oliveira Camila Stefanie Fonseca , Tavares Guilherme Campos , Rodrigues Anderson Messias , de Azevedo Maria Isabel
Published: September 2024

Background

Zoonotic sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis has become the main subcutaneous mycosis in Brazil. Minas Gerais (MG) is located in southeast Brazil and since 2015 has experienced an epidemic of zoonotic sporotrichosis.

Objectives

This study aimed to reconstruct the epidemiological scenario of sporotrichosis from S. brasiliensis in recent epizooty in the Metropolitan Region of Belo Horizonte (MRBH), MG.

Methods

A total of 95 Sporothrix spp. isolates (Sporothirx brasiliensis n = 74, S. schenckii n = 11 and S. globosa n = 10) were subjected to Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) genotyping and mating‐type analysis to determine genetic diversity and population structure. Of these, 46 S. brasiliensis isolates were recovered from animals (cats n = 41 and dogs n = 5) from MRBH.

Results

Our study describes the high interspecific differentiation power of AFLP‐based genotyping between the main phylogenetic Sporothrix groups. S. brasiliensis presents high genetic variability and pronounced population structure with geographically focused outbreaks in Brazil. The genetic groups include older genotypes from the prolonged epidemic in Southeast (Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo), South (Rio Grande do Sul), Northeast (Pernambuco) and new genotypes from the MRBH. Furthermore, we provide evidence of heterothallism mating strategy in pathogenic Sporothrix species. Genotypes originating in Rio de Janeiro and Pernambuco carry the predominant MAT1‐2 idiomorph as opposed to genotypes from Rio Grande do Sul, which have the MAT1‐1 idiomorph. We observed an overwhelming occurrence of MAT1‐1 among MRBH isolates.

Conclusion

Our study provides clear evidence of the predominance of a genetic group profile circulating in animals in Minas Gerais, independent of that disseminated from Rio de Janeiro. Our data can help us understand the genetic population processes that drive the evolution of this fungus in Minas Gerais and contribute to future mitigation actions for this ongoing epidemic.
Genomic Association and Prediction Study for Yield Traits in a Sugarcane (Saccharum spp. Hybrids) Mapping Population ‘LCP 85‐384’
Authors: Phiri Theresa Makawa , Xiong Haizheng , Pan Yong‐Bao , Dickson Ryan William , Joshi Neelendra , Rojas Alejandro , Shi Ainong
Published: September 2024

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids) are complex polyploid and aneuploid interspecific hybrids with 110–130 chromosomes. A traditional sugarcane breeding cycle takes 13–15 years and involves multiple years and locations testing of yield. To identify molecular markers associated with yield‐related traits, the LCP 85‐384 cultivar and its mapping population of 263 self‐progenies were planted in two randomly replicated field plots. The mapping population was genotyped with amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP), simple sequence repeats (SSR) and target region amplification polymorphism (TRAP) markers. Data on plant height, stalk number, stalk diameter and stalk weight were collected. A large variation was observed for each trait. A genome‐wide association study (GWAS) was conducted using mixed linear model (MLM), generalized linear model (GLM) and single marker regression (SMR) programmes of TASSEL 5 and FarmCPU of GAPIT 3. A total of 64 yield trait‐associated alleles were identified, including 11 for stalk number, 36 for stalk weight, 21 for stalk diameter and 5 for plant height. Of the 64 alleles, seven were linked to two traits and one to three traits. Genomic prediction (GP) was also performed by cross‐prediction with five models, namely, ridge regression best linear unbiased prediction (rrBLUP), Bayesian ridge regression (BRR), Bayesian A (BA), Bayesian B (BB), and Bayesian least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (BL). Prediction accuracy (r value) reached 0.40 for plant height, 0.36 for stalk number, 0.44 for stalk diameter and 0.54 for stalk weight with the standard errors from 0.009 to 0.012. Once verified, these markers will be a valuable tool to aid in the selection of yield‐related traits in sugarcane improvement programmes.
The Effect of Seminal Plasma on the Equine Endometrial Transcriptome
Authors: Fedorka C. E. , El‐Sheikh‐Ali H. , Scoggin K. E. , Coleman S. , Humphrey E. A. , Troutt L. , Troedsson M. H. T.
Published: September 2024

The establishment of pregnancy involves a fine‐tuned balance between protection and tolerance within the maternal immune system, as the female needs to accept a foreign antigen (the semi‐allogenic fetus) while still being able to combat pathogens from the uterus. In the horse, the first uterine exposure to paternal antigens is during mating when sperm is introduced to the tissue and draining lymphatics of the uterus. Additionally, it has been suggested that seminal plasma and its proteins within it play an essential role in preparing the female tract for a suitable immunologic environment but this has not been confirmed in the horse. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the endometrial transcriptome following insemination either with seminal plasma or with reduced seminal plasma. We hypothesised that reduced seminal plasma would alter the endometrial transcriptome and affect transcripts relating to immunotolerance, antigen presentation and embryo growth and development. To do so, six (n = 6) mares were inseminated in a randomised switch‐back design over the course of four oestrous cycles. Mares were rectally palpated and scanned via ultrasonography for the detection of a pre‐ovulatory follicle (>35 mm) alongside increasing uterine oedema and relaxed cervix, and then treated with one of four treatment groups including (1) 30 mL lactated Ringers solution (LRS; NegCon), (2) 500 × 106 spermatozoa in conjunction with 30 mL seminal plasma (SP+), (3) 30 mL lactated Ringers solution (LRS; wash out) and (4) 500 × 106 spermatozoa with seminal plasma reduced via gradient centrifugation and resuspended in 30 mL LRS (SP−). Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) was administered to standardise the time to ovulation and endometrial biopsies were collected 7 days after insemination. RNA was isolated utilising Trizol, and RNA‐Seq was performed by Novogene, with 97.79% total mapping and 40 million read depth. p value was set to <0.05. When comparing SP+ to SP−, 158 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Biological processes impacted included antigen processing and regulation, cholesterol synthesis, and immune/inflammatory response. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis using DAVID v6.8 revealed that many of these DEGs were involved in biological process such as antigen presentation (HLA‐DM beta chain, HLA‐DRB, HLA‐DQA and RASGRP1), immune cell signalling (CXCL9, CXCL1, DEFB1 and MIP‐2B), embryo growth and development (INHA, KLF2, RDH10, LAMA3 and SLC34A2) and embryo metabolism (ABCA1, ABCA2, APOA1, LDL, INSR, IGFBP2 and IGFBP3). Overall, reduction of seminal plasma from the insemination dose impacted the endometrial transcriptome at the time of early embryonic exposure to the uterine environment. Further work is justified to evaluate these alterations impact on embryo maturation, placental development, pregnancy outcome and development of offspring.
Optimisation of Early Pregnancy Diagnosis and Resynchronisation in Beef Cows
Authors: Bagon Audrey , Siqueira Luiz Gustavo Bruno , Viana João Henrique Moreira , Pfeifer Luiz Francisco Machado
Published: September 2024

The objectives of this study were (1) to investigate the effects of the preovulatory follicle (POF) size on the accuracy of Doppler‐based early pregnancy detection, and (2) to determine whether the removal of PGF2α (PGF) treatment during the resynchronisation protocol would affect fertility in beef cows. In Experiment 1, Nelore suckling cows (n = 224) were enrolled in an estradiol‐progesterone–based timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocol. At TAI, cows were separated based on the range of POF diameters, as follows: ≤11.0 mm (n = 50), 11.1–12.9 mm (n = 64), 13.0–14.4 mm (n = 62) and ≥14.5 mm (n = 48). On day 22 after TAI, the corpus luteum (CL) blood flow (CLBF) of all cows was examined by colour Doppler ultrasonography to diagnose nonpregnant cows. The cows with the largest POF had the greatest positive predictive value (88.6%; 31 of 35) and diagnostic accuracy (91.7%; 44 of 48). In Experiment 2, Nelore cows (n = 233) were subjected to the same TAI protocol. Fourteen days after TAI, all cows were started on a resynchronisation protocol. Cows diagnosed as nonpregnant based on CLBF, on day 22, received 0.5 mg estradiol cypionate intramuscular (im) and were assigned to receive either 150 μg of PGF (PGF; n = 50) or 2 mL of saline (control; n = 47). Cows treated with PGF had a P/AI of 30.0% compared with a 48.9% P/AI in controls (p = 0.06). Our findings demonstrate that the POF size affects the accuracy of a CLBF‐based early pregnancy diagnosis and that the removal of PGF treatment from the resynchronisation protocol tended to increase P/AI of the second TAI.
RETRACTED: Mechanism of Zuogui pill enhancing ovarian function and skin elastic repair in premature aging rats based on artificial intelligence medical image analysis
Authors: Zhang Xinpei , Wang Fuju , Zhu Xiaodan , Xu Lan , Qin Ling , Xu Wenjuan , Fan Bozhen
Published: September 2024

Background

AI medical image analysis shows potential applications in research on premature aging and skin. The purpose of this study was to explore the mechanism of the Zuogui pill based on artificial intelligence medical image analysis on ovarian function enhancement and skin elasticity repair in rats with premature aging.

Materials and Methods

The premature aging rat model was established by using an experimental animal model. Then Zuogui pills were injected into the rats with premature aging, and the images were detected by an optical microscope. Then, through the analysis of artificial intelligence medical images, the image data is analyzed to evaluate the indicators of ovarian function.

Results

Through optical microscope image detection, we observed that the Zuogui pill played an active role in repairing ovarian tissue structure and increasing the number of follicles in mice, and Zuogui pill also significantly increased the level of progesterone in the blood of mice.

Conclusion

Most of the ZGP‐induced outcomes are significantly dose‐dependent.
Cryptic cytoplasmic male sterility‐causing gene in the mitochondrial genome of common japonica rice
Authors: Toriyama Kinya , Iwai Yuko , Takeda Shinya , Takatsuka Ayumu , Igarashi Keisuke , Furuta Tomoyuki , Chen Sunlu , Kanaoka Yoshitaka , Kishima Yuji , Arimura Shin‐ichi , Kazama Tomohiko
Published: September 2024

Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) is an agronomically significant trait that causes dysfunction in pollen and anther development. It is often observed during successive backcrossing between distantly related species. Here, we show that Asian japonica cultivars (Oryza sativa) exhibit CMS when the nucleus is replaced with that of the African rice Oryza glaberrima. The CMS line produced stunted anthers and did not set any seeds. Mitochondrial orf288 RNA was detected in the anthers of CMS lines but not in fertility restorer lines. The mitochondrial genome‐edited japonica rice that was depleted of orf288 did not exhibit male sterility when backcrossed with O. glaberrima. These results demonstrate that orf288 is a CMS‐causing gene. As orf288 commonly occurs in the mitochondrial genomes of japonica rice, these results indicate that common japonica rice cultivars possess a cryptic CMS‐causing gene hidden in their mitochondrial genomes.