bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of metabolites and antioxidative activity in leaves and roots of purple radish cultivars
Authors: Chae Seung-Hun , Lee Sang-Hyeon , Moon Jae-Hak , Cho Jeong-Yong
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to compare non-volatile metabolites and antioxidant activities of three purple radish varieties (cv. Sweet Baby, cv. Jungwoonmu, and cv. Boraking) leaves and roots. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the leaves were significantly higher than the roots. Glucosinolate content was significantly higher in the leaves than in the roots. In the purple radish roots, Boraking had the highest total anthocyanin content (420.14±16.2 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside/100 g) when compared to Sweet Baby (351.1±27.3 mg C3G/100 g) and Jungwoonmu (367.1±16.6 mg C3G/100 g). Based on the non-volatile metabolite analysis by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole time-of-flight-mass spectrometry, 40 compounds, including flavonoid glycosides and coumaroyl glycosides in the leaves and 48 compounds, including various cyanidin glycosides and kaempferol glycosides in the roots were identified. Boraking was clearly classified from Sweet Baby and Jungwoonmu. The leaves of three purple radish cultivars had higher ABTS+ radical scavenging activity and ferric-reducing antioxidant power than the roots. The non-volatile metabolites and antioxidative activities of three purple radishes are expected to be used as basic information in food processing. In addition, the purple radish leaves, which are mostly discarded, will be used as a variety of food materials such as salads, wraps, and various vegetable-based dishes.
Patterns of viruses among the jaundice patients admitted in a tertiary care hospital, Chattogram, Bangladesh
Authors: Roy Biswas Rajat Sanker , Abdullah Sk Md Faisal , Waddadar Shemanta , Chowdhury Nabil Asgar
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Jaundice is the commonest presenting features of hepatitis and it is a common clinical condition in Bangladesh. As a country of the Asia Pacific region Bangladesh is considered to be a high risk country for developing hepatitis by different hepatotropic viruses. This studyrepresents the patterns and types ofviruses among the patients admitted in a tertiary care hospitals inBangladesh who were presented with jaundice.

Methods

Present cross sectional observational study done during a one year study period from July 2022 to June 2023 in a tertiary care hospital, Chattogram, Bangladesh among 114 patients. All patients who had clinical jaundice or having serum bilirubin > 2 mg/dl were recruited in the study. Clinical data were collected from all of them and viral serology were also done by ICT or ELISA. Informed written consent were taken from all patients and permission for the study were taken from ERB of the medical college.

Results

Among 114 study subjects, male were 73(64%) and female were 41(36%) and male to female ratio was 1: 0.56. Among all, maximum were in the age range of <20 years and 21- 30 years which were 46(40.4%) and 44(38.6%) respectively. Regarding clinical features, 109(95.6%) had jaundice and 89(78.1%) had fever and 74(64.9%) had nausea and these were three dominant clinical features found. Viral serology study revealed frequency of HAV, HBV, HCV and HEV infection were 43(37.7%), 9(7.9%), 1(0.9%) and 26(22.8%) respectively. There were viral coinfections with (HAV+HEV), (HAV+HBV) and (HBV + HEV) and it were 8(7.0%), 4(3.5%) and 3(2.6%) respectively. Among all 20(17.5%) cases were tested negative for hepatotropic viruses. Again 6(5.3%) had Anti HBc Positivity and 2(1.8%) cases were found coinfected with HIV.

Conclusions

In a year round, HAV and HEV are two common viral infection causing jaundice among the locality. HBV had a significant level of infection with low level HCV causing jaundice. Two HIV coinfection is an alarming condition found among the jaundice patients which need further exploration and risk factor evaluations.
Epigenome-wide association study meta-analysis of BMI in African American Adults
Authors: Ferrier Kendra , Graff Mariaelisa , Konigsberg Iain R. , Stanislawski Maggie , Highland Heather M. , Raffield Laura M. , Carson April P. , Boerwinkle Eric , Norris Jill M. , Gignoux Chris R. , Hendricks Audrey E. , Raghavan Sridharan , North Kari E. , Allison Matthew A. , Budoff Mathew J. , Kasela Silva , Aguet François , Joseph Joshua J. , Kooperberg Charles , Rich Stephen S. , Rotter Jerome I. , Lange Ethan M. , Lange Leslie A.
Published: January 2025

Despite considerable advances in identifying risk factors for obesity development, there remains substantial gaps in our knowledge about its etiology. Variation in obesity (defined by BMI) is thought to be due in part to heritable factors; however, obesity-associated genetic variants only account for a small portion of heritability. Epigenetic regulation defined by genetic and/or environmental factors with changes in gene expression, may account for some of this “missing heritability”. Epigenetic studies of obesity have largely been conducted in populations of European ancestry, despite the disproportionate burden of obesity in African Americans (AAs). To address race/ethnic (RE)-differences in obesity, we conducted a BMI epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) meta-analysis using AA participants from the Jackson Heart Study (JHS, n=1604) and the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA, n=179). Analyses using a linear regression model with methylation as the outcome and continuous BMI as the predictor were stratified by study and sex, then meta-analyzed. There were 208 methylation sites (CpGs) that reached epigenome-wide significance (p< 8.72x10-8); 151 of these were novel. Of the novel CpGs, 29 CpGs were available for replication testing in a separate sample of AA and 20 replicated. Differentially methylated region (DMR) analysis resulted in 54 DMRs significantly associated with BMI. Several regions are proximal to, or include, genes previously associated with obesity traits (e.g.,SOCS3,ABCG1, andTGFB1) in GWAS. Gene and trait enrichment and pathway analysis showed enrichment for genes in immune system and inflammation related pathways (e.g., the IL-6/JAK/STAT pathway). In conclusion, EWAS of BMI in AAs replicated previously known associations identified in European and multi-ethnic EWAS and identified novel obesity-associated CpGs.
Development of Chronic Pain and High-Impact Chronic Pain across the U.S. Rural-Urban Continuum, 2019-2020
Authors: Sun Feinuo , Yang Yulin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Rural health disadvantages are well-documented in previous literature, however research on rural-urban disparities in chronic pain outcomes is scarce. This paper fills this gap by examining pain prevalences and transitions across the rural-urban continuum (i.e., large central metro, large fringe metro, medium and small metro, and nonmetropolitan).

Methods

Based on the 2019-2020 National Health Interview Survey Longitudinal Cohort (NHIS-LC) data, we examined the disparities in pain prevalences and transitions among different pain states, including no pain, nonchronic pain, chronic pain and high-impact chronic pain (HICP), across the rural-urban continuum and by age, sex, race/ethnicity, and region. A test for linear trend was conducted to examine the significance of linear changes across the rural-urban continuum.

Findings

The findings reveal significant linear increases in the prevalence of chronic pain and HICP, as well as transitions from no pain to nonchronic pain and from nonchronic pain to more severe pain conditions, along the continuum from metropolitan to nonmetropolitan areas. Sub-group analyses indicate that rural-urban gaps are most pronounced among middle-aged (45-64) groups and non-Hispanic whites.

Conclusions

This study provides new evidence on rural-urban health disparities by focusing on pain, highlighting the urgent need to enhance healthcare services in remote and rural areas for effective pain prevention and management.

Funding sources

The authors received no external financial support for the research, authorship, or publication of this article.

Disclosures

The authors declare no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, or publication of this article.
Tracing of streptococcal strains from infant stool across human body sites links gut specificity to adhesins
Authors: Ormaasen Ida , Kjos Morten , Simpson Melanie Rae , Øien Torbjørn , Snipen Lars , Rudi Knut
Published: January 2025

Streptococcal species are human commensals known to colonize multiple body sites. Despite being early gut colonizers, we lack strain-level information about their origin and persistence in the gut. To gain more insight into the habitats of the streptococci present in the infant gut, we did a systematic study where mother-infant pairs were sampled from multiple body sites (stool, oral cavity, vagina, breast milk). We performed whole metagenome sequencing and isolated streptococci from 100 infant stool samples (collected at 10 days of age). To trace the streptococci at the strain level, we designed selective qPCR primers for seven streptococcal strains, and these were later utilized to screen corresponding samples from multiple body sites of the infants and their mothers. We found that two of the strains (oneStreptococcus parasanguinisand oneStreptococcus vestibularis) were highly prevalent in stool samples, both from infants during their first 2 years of life and from their mothers, indicating that these strains are adapted to the gut environment. Interestingly, anotherS. parasanguinisstrain, closely related to the gut-prevalent strain, showed a completely different prevalence pattern, and was mainly detected in vaginal swabs, breast milk and oral swabs. Comparisons of their genomes revealed major differences in genes encoding adhesins, suggesting that host surface attachment could be a key factor for the observed differences in body site specificity. Together, our extensive tracing of streptococci across body sites of 100 infants and their mothers, provides strain-level information of prevalence patterns and reveals the presence of gut-specific streptococci.

Importance

Streptococci thrive on the mucosal surfaces covering the human body and colonize multiple body sites. To determine the distinct streptococcal composition in each habitat and to evaluate their presence in different habitats, strain-level characterization is crucial. We show that two closely related strains, both isolated from stool, are distributed differently across the human body, with one of them prevalent in the stool samples and the other more prevalent in other samples. This emphasizes the necessity of strain-level analysis for the identification of true colonizers of a habitat.
Kremen1 dependence receptor induces SEC24C- and ATG9A-dependent autophagic cell death
Authors: Brahim Sonia , Schott Thomas , Ghasemi Shiva , Negulescu Ana , Geneste Clara , Errazuriz-Cerda Elisabeth , Ichim Gabriel , Mehlen Patrick , Meurette Olivier
Published: January 2025

Dependence receptors (DRs) induce cell death by apoptosis in the absence of their ligand. Among them, Kremen1 was first described to induce cancer cell death in the absence of its ligand, DKK1. Nevertheless, the exact mechanism of Kremen1-triggered cell death remains unexplored. In this study, we demonstrate that Kremen1 induces cell death with autophagic features, contrasting with the apoptotic process typically associated with dependence receptors. Specifically, chemical inhibition of autophagy by spautin or wortmannin or genetic inhibition of ATG9A or ATG18B effectively blocks this cell death process. Furthermore, through a proximity protein interactome analysis of Kremen1, we identified Sec24C, a component of the COP-II complex, as important effector of Kremen1-induced autophagy and cell death. Our findings reveal an interaction between Sec24C and ATG8 regulated by Kremen1, potentially underlying the increased number of autophagosomes in cancer cells, leading to their death. This correlation between Kremen1 and the induction of aberrant autophagy deserves particular attention, especially as the Kremen1/DKK1 pair is frequently altered in cancers, with higher DKK1 expression associated with poor survival outcomes. Thus, targeting this pathway may offer a potential strategy for treating cancers resistant to current therapies.
Cortical travelling waves may underpin variation in personality traits
Authors: Bailey Neil W , Pacheco Luiza Bonfim , Smillie Luke D.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Personality traits must relate to stable neural processes, yet few robust neural correlates of personality have been discovered. Recent methodological advances enable measurement of cortical travelling waves, which likely underpin information flow between brain regions. Here, we explore whether cortical travelling waves relate to personality traits from the “Big Five” taxonomy.

Method

We assessed personality traits and recorded resting electroencephalography (EEG) from 300 participants. We computed travelling wave strength using a 3D fast Fourier transform and explored relationships between alpha travelling waves and personality traits.

Results

Trait Agreeableness and Openness/Intellect had significant relationships to travelling waves that passed multiple-comparison controls (pFDR= 0.019,pFDR= 0.036). Agreeableness related to interhemispheric waves travelling from the right hemisphere along central lines (rho = 0.263, p < 0.001, BF10 = 356.350). This relationship was unique to the compassion aspect (t = 3.719, p <0.001) rather than politeness aspect of Agreeableness (t = 0.897, p = 0.370). Openness/Intellect related to backwards travelling waves along midline electrodes (rho = 0.197, p < 0.001, BF10 = 13.800), which was confirmed for the Openness aspect (rho = 0.216, p < 0.001, BF10 = 26.444) but not the Intellect aspect (rho = 0.093, p = 0.109, BF10 = 0.344).

Conclusions

Greater cortical travelling wave strength from right temporal regions may partly underpin variation in trait compassion, and backwards travelling wave strength along midline electrodes may mark trait openness. Further research is needed to investigate the mechanistic role of travelling waves in personality traits and other individual differences.
Segmenting Croatian university students and investigating their tendency to adopt innovative food products based on their food-related lifestyles
Authors: Anic Ivan-Damir , Kurnoga Natasa , Knezevic Blazenka
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to detect the patterns of food-related lifestyles of university students, identify the groups of individuals based on these lifestyles and investigate their tendency to adopt innovative food products.

Design/methodology/approach

The data collected from university students in Croatia (n = 641) were analysed using factor and cluster analyses and a chi-squared test.

Findings

The findings revealed 11 food-related lifestyles and four groups of university students: “Convenience-oriented”, “Conscious consumers”, “Adventurous eaters” and “Family-oriented Cooks”. Adventurous eaters are the most interested in buying innovative food products, and many of them are food innovators (20%). Sampled individuals are open to new foods, and only a tiny percentage are reluctant to try new and unfamiliar foods.

Practical implications

The study provides recommendations on how marketers and food producers might target these consumers more efficiently and boost the sales of innovative food products.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by (1) revealing food-related lifestyles among university students in Croatia, (2) developing the typology of consumers based on their lifestyles and (3) providing new knowledge of how food-related lifestyles affect the adoption of innovative food products.
Perceived blockchain-related information transparency and organic food purchase intention: an extension of the theory of planned behaviour with the moderation role of blockchain-based trust
Authors: Duong Cong Doanh , Nguyen Thanh Hieu , Ngo Thi Viet Nga , Bui Thu Van , Tran Nhat Minh
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The current study aims to investigate the impact of perceived blockchain-related information transparency on consumers’ intention to purchase organic food. This study examines how perceived blockchain- related information transparency, directly and indirectly, affects purchase intentions through attitudes, perceived behavioural control and subjective norms. Additionally, the study explores how blockchain-based trust moderates the influence of perceived blockchain-related information transparency on these factors and the intention to purchase organic food.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the theory of planned behaviour framework and a sample of 5,326 consumers, this study uses partial least squares structural equation modelling to test the research model.

Findings

This study finds that perceived blockchain-related information transparency directly enhances consumers’ attitudes towards organic food purchase, perceived behavioural control, subjective norms and intention to purchase organic food. Additionally, perceived blockchain-related information transparency indirectly affects consumers’ intention to buy organic food through three antecedents of the theory of planned behaviour model. Notably, these indirect effects were moderated by consumers’ blockchain-based trust.

Practical implications

This study provides recommendations for leveraging blockchain to enhance transparency and build trust, which could boost consumer engagement and organic food purchases.

Originality/value

This research contributes to blockchain literature by empirically examining the role of perceived blockchain-related transparency and blockchain-based trust in consumers’ purchasing decisions regarding organic food. It provides valuable insights into the consumer-centric benefits of blockchain technology. Furthermore, this study also contributes to the literature on organic food, particularly its promotion through blockchain technology.
Blockchain for food and beverage supply: expired buzz word or accelerating trend?
Authors: Thoukidides Evangelia , Calandra Davide , Gay Paolo
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study investigates the barriers and motivators for adopting blockchain technology (BCT) in the food and beverage (FNB) supply chain. Additionally, it compares and contrasts the perspectives of two stakeholder groups, FNB managers and technology providers, in order to uncover discrepancies and practical challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopts a qualitative interpretive method, utilizing the theoretical framework of acceptability (TFA) to analyse semi-structured interviews (Appendices 1 and 2). The study involves 16 representatives from 14 companies. Thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo software to identify critical barriers and motivators for BCT adoption.

Findings

Our study reveals that FNB managers and technology providers have a similar understanding of theoretical barriers, such as unreliable immutable data, limited scalability and high costs. However, technology providers tend to overestimate the benefits of BCT. Key barriers identified include data security concerns, the burden on partners, underdeveloped data provenance tools and high implementation costs. Adoption motivators include improved traceability, transparency and efficiency, though FNB managers remain sceptical of these benefits.

Originality/value

This research applies the TFA in the context of blockchain adoption in the FNB sector, offering novel insights into stakeholder perspectives and the sociotechnical challenges of BCT implementation. The findings are relevant to regulators, technology providers and researchers in innovation theory for the FNB sector.
When are going concern audit opinions more informative? An analysis of auditor reasons and ex post accuracy
Authors: Desai Vikram , Kim Joung W. , Beck Allison Kristina , Desai Renu , Roberts Robin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

We examine the content of auditors’ going concern opinions (GCOs) to investigate how the market reacts to particular explanations and to the overall number of reasons presented by auditors. We investigate whether the market reacts differentially to explanatory paragraphs alluding to specific financial concerns emphasized in the finance literature: reductions in expected future cash flows, difficulties with short-term liquidity and violations of debt covenants. Finally, we examine whether GCOs that are ex-post accurate, as indicated by a subsequent bankruptcy, are accompanied by more negative reactions.

Design/methodology/approach

We regress cumulative abnormal returns on the number of reasons cited by auditors and indicator variables for whether auditors cited concerns pertaining to future cash flows, debt covenant violations or short-term cash holdings. We include an indicator for subsequent bankruptcy and control variables.

Findings

The market reaction to GCOs is significantly more negative when auditors offer more reasons or specifically cite a decrease in expected future cashflows or a violation of debt covenants and when GCOs are ex-post accurate.

Research limitations/implications

The results indicate that auditors’ explanations for GCOs contain incremental information content that is useful to investors.

Practical implications

We find that more detailed GCO reports are more informative to investors, supporting the need for regulations requiring auditors to provide detailed justifications when issuing GCOs.

Originality/value

This study is the first to examine how the number of reasons given by auditors affects market reactions to GCOs and to specifically examine how investors react to GCOs that cite violations of debt covenants or reductions in future cash flows as justifications for the GCO.
The effect of government subsidies on cooperative green innovation of supply chains from the perspective of cost sharing
Authors: Yan Zhishan , Hu Haiqing , Wang Zhaoqun , Liang Zhikang , Kong Weiwei
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the effect of different government subsidy decisions and the differences between the consequences of these decisions when supply chain members engage in cooperative green innovation through cost-sharing arrangements.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper investigates the optimal decisions for green supply chains under two types of subsidies, including subsidies for green innovation research and development (R&D) costs and subsidies for consumers, by integrating game theory with numerical simulation.

Findings

The optimal R&D cost-sharing ratio is found to be 2/3 for manufacturers and 1/3 for retailers. Under any subsidy policy, the supply chain can achieve maximum total profit. When the supply chain adopts the optimal R&D cost-sharing ratio, subsidies for green innovation R&D costs prove to be the most effective in increasing the supply chain’s profit. However, from the perspective of total social welfare, the analysis reveals that government subsidies to consumers are more beneficial for promoting overall social welfare.

Originality/value

Previous studies on green supply chain decisions have primarily focused on either government subsidies or corporate cost sharing in isolation. In contrast, this study combines both government subsidies and cost sharing within a unified framework for a more comprehensive analysis. Additionally, this paper examines the impact of government subsidies on supply chain cost-sharing decisions and their effect on overall social welfare while considering the presence of cost sharing and using the combination of theoretical modeling and simulation analysis.
Navigating implementation strategies: insights from XPS programmes
Authors: Linderson Sara , Larsson John Lars Anders , Birkie Seyoum Eshetu , Bellgran Monica
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study explores how industrial production companies adjust implementation strategies to deliver value with their company-specific production system (XPS) in a multi-site setting. Implementing an XPS is part of operations management and is supposed to mobilise employees resource-efficiently to increase operational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a multiple-case study, this study qualitatively explores the patterns of implementation decisions within and between five multi-site production companies. Conclusions were drawn on a mix of timely and retrospective data gathered through individual interviews with senior managers and joint workshops where they interacted and shared experiences.

Findings

This study identifies the fact that companies respond differently to non-unique implementation challenges, constituting various decision patterns when implementing their XPS. This paper identifies four implementation strategies (Education, Tool, Pragmatic and Culture Strategy) that explain various implementation setups. More experienced companies frequently shifted between strategies to return to previously de-prioritised implementation aspects.

Originality/value

This paper offers a dynamic model for XPS implementation in contrast to a simplified tool–system–culture sequence in literature today. Companies that deliberately shift implementation strategy by understanding the benefits and challenges of their decisions are more likely to keep momentum in the XPS implementation.
Governmental reforms and earnings management: examining their influence during a crisis
Authors: Cimini Riccardo , Coronella Lorenzo , Mechelli Alessandro
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper examines the ability of those governmental reforms adopted in response to the COVID-19 outbreak to affect earnings management (EM).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper focuses on the Italian decision to suspend the recapitalization obligation to guarantee the respect of the going concern’s assumption. By analysing a sample of unlisted entities, this analysis uses different techniques to detect EM before and after the suspension of that obligation.

Findings

The results suggest that EM decreased after the decision to suspend recapitalization obligations.

Research limitations/implications

Accounting quality depends on not only accounting standards but also management practices in response to those government measures instituted during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Originality/value

The results are a novelty in the literature. In terms of the institutional theory, they provide evidence of EM decrease, thereby validating the assumption that regulation can enable and empower social actors – particularly their actions – despite the visions of repression and constraint conjured by that concept. Isomorphism theory supports the thesis and results that indicate that EM decreases not only in emerging markets, where corporate governance mechanisms are less able to obstruct EM, but also in the developed countries. Thus, insightful and novel conceptualizations can still be achieved by using institutional theory. Yet the findings also extend agency theory assumptions and demonstrate that also the issuance of less severe regulation can reduce agency costs and, in turn, also EM.
Exploring performance measurement practices in public housing tenancy management in Malaysia
Authors: Teo Jes She , Mohd Aini Ainoriza , Zyed Zafirah Al Sadat
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to explore existing performance measurement (PM) practices in Malaysian public housing, specifically focusing on tenancy management operational practices and PM initiatives, thereby contributing valuable insights to this under-researched area.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a qualitative research approach, utilizing open-ended interviews to gather insights. To enhance the validity and reliability of the data, a purposive sampling technique was applied, selecting experts based on predefined criteria. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data, extracting meaningful themes and providing a comprehensive understanding of PM practices in Malaysian public housing.

Findings

The findings reveal significant disparities in PM practices across different states in Malaysia. While some public housing entities have established their own key performance indicators, others lack structured frameworks, leading to inconsistencies in monitoring and effectiveness. The discrepancy highlights the need for a more uniform approach to ensure transparency and reliability in PM.

Originality/value

This study provides unique insights into the current state of PM, particularly in the context of tenancy management, which has been underexplored. By employing qualitative methods and thematic analysis, the research offers a nuanced understanding of the challenges and gaps in PM. It highlights significant disparities across different states and identifies key areas for improvement. These findings underscore its potential to inform and transform PM practices in Malaysian public housing, paving the way for more standardized and effective PM practices in the future.
Analysis of socio-economic characteristics and physical condition of the slum environment in the inner city
Authors: Oladehinde Gbenga John
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Research on the living conditions of slum dwellers in the inner cities of developing countries has received much attention. Nevertheless, there is little empirical research on the influence of personal attributes on the poor environmental condition of the slum area. This study aims to examine the relationship between the socio-economic characteristics and the physical condition of the slum environment in the inner city of Ibadan, Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected through the use of questionnaire administration from a household survey of 491 slum dwellers. Systematic random sampling was used in the selection of the respondents. The study used descriptive, factor and multiple regression to analyse the data collected.

Findings

The study used descriptive, factor and multiple regression to analyse the data collected. The study reveals an interplay between various socio-economic factors and environmental conditions. The results show that out of ten (10) socio economic variables that were submitted in the regression model, only eight (8) of these variables such as income, household size, occupation, level of education, age, marital status, year of residency and nativity were significant.

Originality/value

The study concluded that despite the fact that the condition of the slum environment is a product of multiple interrelated factors, personal attributes also contribute to the poor environmental condition of the slum area. The study recommended that improving the socio-economic conditions of slum dwellers would lead to improved environmental conditions.
Climate change threatens amphibians and species representation within protected areas in tropical wetlands
Authors: Neves Matheus O. , Broennimann Olivier , Mod Heidi K. , Bolochio Bruna E. , Santana Diego J. , Guisan Antoine , Moura Mario R.
Published: January 2025

Protected areas (PAs) are crucial for biodiversity conservation, yet climate change threatens their long‐term effectiveness by displacing species distributions. Among the most climate‐threatened organisms are the amphibians, highly dependent on water and wetlands.

The world's largest continuous tropical wetland, the Pantanal and surroundings, is situated in the Upper Paraguay River Basin (UPRB) in South America. Of the 74 amphibian species found there, 4% are threatened. Less than 5% of the basin is within PAs. Recurrent droughts and increasing human pressures further endanger the region's semiaquatic fauna if adequate protection measures are not implemented.

Using Ensemble of Small Models, we mapped habitat suitability of amphibian species and projected amphibian richness and composition across the UPRB. We applied null models to evaluate the representation of amphibian ranges within the current PA network under both current and future climate scenarios. To prioritize areas for PA network expansion under climate change scenarios, we used a systematic conservation planning algorithm.

By 2100, over 80% of amphibian species from the study area are projected to lose suitable habitat, with 99% of amphibian assemblages facing climate‐driven species loss. Although the existing PA network had limited species representation, protecting on average less than 5% of amphibian ranges. However, 13.7% of PAs are expected to shelter more amphibian species than expected by chance under future climate conditions. Highlands, particularly in the northern and southeastern boundaries of the UPRB, are identified priority areas for PA network expansion due to their high projected changes in amphibian biodiversity.

Synthesis and applications. Our findings reveal the extensive impacts of climate change on a major semiaquatic group in the world's largest tropical wetland. Although the current PA network in the Pantanal and surroundings safeguards fewer amphibians than expected, its limited coverage provides opportunities for systematic, data‐driven expansion to achieve the Post‐2020 Global Biodiversity Framework's 30 by 30 target. Expanding PAs is urgent, but addressing drivers of environmental degradation, including unsustainable practices in agriculture and livestock farming, is equally critical for conserving this biodiverse ecosystem.
Large seeds as a defensive strategy against partial granivory in the Fagaceae
Authors: Chen Si‐Chong , Antonelli Alexandre , Huang Xiao , Wei Neng , Dai Can , Wang Qing‐Feng
Published: January 2025

Large seeds interact with a wide range of animals (e.g. predators) and are dispersed via certain small animals' foraging behaviours, such as caching. Some of the most iconic species of large‐seeded plants have long fascinated ecologists studying biotic interactions, such as oaks and their relatives in the Fagaceae family.

The Fagaceae acorns are dispersed through synzoochory, a specific dispersal mode in which animal partners act as both seed dispersers and granivores. Although granivory (i.e. seed herbivory) can profoundly impact the survival of plant offspring, partial damage on seed reserves is a prevalent phenomenon that does not always result in seed mortality. However, previous single‐species studies have resulted in mixed evidence across treatments and traits, leaving the impact of partial granivory on plant regeneration unclear.

Using artificial granivory experiments on 1185 seeds of 20 Fagaceae species, here we quantify how partial loss of seed reserve affects seed germination, seedling growth and biomass allocation across a damage gradient from 0% to 96% biomass loss.

We show that, although partial granivory reduces seedling growth (e.g. total biomass and number of leaves), it does not significantly affect seed germination or the overall biomass allocation of seedlings (e.g. leaf mass fraction and root:shoot biomass ratio). Seedlings from seeds more preyed upon have higher specific leaf area, indicating that they tend to grow larger but less protected leaves against herbivores, perhaps to compete for light.

Synthesis. As seeds dispersed through scatter‐hoarding granivores have evolved relatively large sizes, like Fagaceae acorns, our findings demonstrate that this type of seeds may tolerate partial granivory in exchange for high dispersal efficiency. This study opens new perspectives to our understanding of seed size diversity and evolution. We conclude that seed size per se is a defensive trait, that large seeds counteract potential losses of seed reserve to escape full predation and allow germination.
Understanding glucose metabolism and insulin action at the blood–brain barrier: Implications for brain health and neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Zhu Yiyi , Verkhratsky Alexei , Chen Hui , Yi Chenju
Published: January 2025

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a highly selective, semipermeable barrier critical for maintaining brain homeostasis. The BBB regulates the transport of essential nutrients, hormones, and signaling molecules between the bloodstream and the central nervous system (CNS), while simultaneously protecting the brain from potentially harmful substances and pathogens. This selective permeability ensures that the brain is nourished and shielded from toxins. An exception to this are brain regions, such as the hypothalamus and circumventricular organs, which are irrigated by fenestrated capillaries, allowing rapid and direct response to various blood components. We overview the metabolic functions of the BBB, with an emphasis on the impact of altered glucose metabolism and insulin signaling on BBB in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Notably, endothelial cells constituting the BBB exhibit distinct metabolic characteristics, primarily generating ATP through aerobic glycolysis. This occurs despite their direct exposure to the abundant oxygen in the bloodstream, which typically supports oxidative phosphorylation. The effects of insulin on astrocytes, which form the glial limitans component of the BBB, show a marked sexual dimorphism. BBB nutrient sensing in the hypothalamus, along with insulin signaling, regulates systemic metabolism. Insulin modifies BBB permeability by regulating the expression of tight junction proteins, angiogenesis, and vascular remodeling, as well as modulating blood flow in the brain. The disruptions in glucose and insulin signaling are particularly evident in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, where BBB breakdown accelerates cognitive decline. This review highlights the critical role of normal glucose metabolism and insulin signaling in maintaining BBB functionality and investigates how disruptions in these pathways contribute to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
Meta‐Analysis: Exclusive Enteral Nutrition in Adults With Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Chu Matthew K. W. , Day Alice S. , Broad Lani , Costello Samuel P. , Edwards Suzanne , Bryant Robert V.
Published: January 2025

Background

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is an established dietary therapy for Crohn's disease but its role in ulcerative colitis remains unclear.

Aims

To investigate the efficacy of EEN in adults with active ulcerative colitis and compare variations in treatment protocols, safety, tolerability and adherence.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, Emcare, CINAHL, Web of Science and trial registries for articles published from inception until July 21, 2024. We included all experimental and observational studies that described the use of EEN in adults with active ulcerative colitis. This review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022319584).

Results

Of 3273 articles screened, we included 10 studies (334 adults). Overall, there was no difference between EEN and comparator for ulcerative colitis remission induction (median follow‐up 14 days, risk ratio (RR) 1.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71–1.85; 2 studies). In acute severe ulcerative colitis, there was no difference between EEN and comparator for corticosteroid failure (RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.48–1.20; 2 studies) or risk of colectomy (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.51–1.51, n = 2 studies) during index admission. The pooled discontinuation rate was 3% (95% CI 0–10; 9 studies). There was heterogeneity in trial design, methodology and assessment of outcomes.

Conclusion

EEN was well tolerated with low therapy discontinuation in adults with active ulcerative colitis. However, there is insufficient evidence to support the use of EEN as an adjunctive therapy to standard of care. Further, well‐designed studies with reproducible methodology and endpoints are necessary to evaluate its effectiveness.

Registry Number for Systematic Review

PROSPERO 2022 CRD42022319584.
The global prevalence of emotional eating in overweight and obese populations: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chew Han Shi Jocelyn , Soong Rou Yi , Ang Wei How Darryl , Ngooi Jia Wen , Park Jiyoung , Yong Jenna Qing Yun Ow , Goh Yong Shian Shawn
Published: January 2025

This systematic review aims to investigate the current prevalence of emotional eating and its associated factors in overweight and obese populations. We included studies that (1) reported prevalence of emotional eating; (2) were in the context of weight gain or overweight and obesity; (3) used a validated psychometric tool to assess emotional eating; (4) were published as an internationally referred journal article and (5) were reported in the English language. Articles were searched on eight electronic databases (CINAHL, EMBASE, PsychINFO, ProQuest, PubMed, Scopus, The Cochrane Library and Web of Science) from the journals' inception to 11 April 2024. A total of 18 studies, representing a total of 21,237 people, were included in the review. Our study suggested that emotional eating is significantly prevalent at 44.9%. High heterogeneity observed (I2: 98.7%) can be attributed to differences in measurement tools for emotional eating, but not differences in geographical regions. By providing insight to the current prevalence of emotional eating and its relevant factors, this study outlines the steps to take in future research and practice to tackle emotional eating and related health issues like obesity. There is a need to develop standardized measurement tools for emotional eating, and further investigate sociodemographic factors.
A Theoretically Informed Process Evaluation in Parallel to a Feasibility Study of a Complex Oral Health Intervention Using NICE Guidelines in a Care Home Setting
Authors: Brocklehurst Paul , Langley Joe , Wassall Rebecca , Daniyal Sana , Syed Saif Sayeed , Harvey Michelle , Goulden Nia , Sherriff Andrea , Heilmann Anja , Hoare Zoe , Smith Craig , Watt Richard , O'Neill Ciaran , Kee Frank , Cairns Peter , Lievesley Nat , McKenna Gerald , Tsakos Georgios
Published: January 2025

Background

A theoretically informed process evaluation was undertaken in parallel to a study examining the feasibility of an oral health intervention based on an existing guideline for care homes. The objectives were to explore the factors that influenced the implementation of the intervention in order to understand the potential pathway to impact. The research team initially utilised Pfadenhauer et al.'s framework, which focuses on a number of different implementation factors: intervention characteristics, context, theory, process, strategy, agents, outcomes and setting.

Methods

Nine semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with care home managers and staff, predominantly within the intervention arm of the study. Interview schedules were originally based on Pfadenhauer et al.'s framework. These were coded and analysed using thematic analysis. Given the range of themes that emerged, the research team ran a reflexive workshop to determine whether Pfadenhauer et al.'s framework was able to capture and frame the authentic voice of those interviewed.

Results

The research team found that a systems lens approach better fitted the data from the interviews, capturing the idiosyncrasy of the different settings and the importance of values and beliefs of the key stakeholders. It was clear that unlike the structure proposed by Pfaednhauer et al., many of the factors were interdependent and hierarchical in nature, that is, paradigm and goals within the care home had a direct impact on the system structure, which fed into how the care home was maintained, which led onto how the different actors (care home managers and staff) behaved. The process also highlighted key factors for intervention delivery: time poverty, competing needs, staff turnover, differences between shift patterns and between permanent and agency staff. Cognitive capacity of the residents and staff attitudes were also key.

Conclusions

Adding a reflexive workshop enabled the research to critically review the Pfadenhauer et al.'s framework and change to a systems lens approach, which better explained the interdependent and hierarchical nature of the findings. It also highlighted a number of key factors that could influence the pathway to impact for the intervention.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN10276613
The Outcome of Ongoing Adult Endocrine Engagement Following Transition From Paediatric Care
Authors: Chai Xin Yean , Lucas‐Herald Angela K. , Ahmed S. Faisal , Chen Suet Ching , Mason Avril , Wong Sze Choong , Perry Colin , Guftar Shaikh M.
Published: January 2025

Objective

Transition is important for continuity of care for patients with chronic health conditions. The aim of this service evaluation was to determine the effectiveness of a transition clinic at a tertiary hospital with long‐term attendance in the adult endocrine service.

Design

Retrospective case notes review of patients seen by paediatric endocrinology at the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, at the time of transition to adult services, between 2012 and 2022. Patients with type 1 diabetes were excluded.

Measurements

Engagement was measured through clinic attendance and dropout rate. The ‘dropped out patients’ were those who were seen in the transition clinic with a transition plan but did not attend appointments in the adult service.

Results

Of the 267 individuals offered a transition clinic, data on discharge status were available for 248 (94%). Of these, 52% (n = 129) remained in the same tertiary centre, 29% (n = 61) were transferred to other endocrine centres in the West of Scotland; 17% (n = 42) were discharged to primary care. Overall, 91% (172/190) of young patients remained engaged with the adult service. Male patients had a higher drop out rate compared to females (14% vs. 4%, p < 0.05). Those from more deprived areas also had higher drop out rates compared to those from more affluent areas (17% vs. 3%, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our clinic model for transitioning from paediatric to adult endocrine care is effective in introducing and retaining patients to the adult service with only a 9% drop out rate. Factors associated with poor attendance in adult services include deprivation and being male. Additional support may be required for these individuals to improve engagement in adult services.