bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Field Assessment of Biochar Interactions With Chemical and Biological N Fertilization in Pointed White Cabbage
Authors: Castejón‐del Pino Raúl , Cayuela María L. , Sánchez‐García María , Siles Jose A. , Sánchez‐Monedero Miguel A.
Published: October 2024

The interaction of biochar with mineral fertilization has attracted attention as a strategy to reduce N losses and enhance nitrogen use efficiency. In this study, we investigated the coapplication of biochar with two optimized fertilization strategies based on split urea and a microbial inoculant (Azospirillum brasilense) in a commercial pointed white cabbage crop. Additionally, we evaluated a third optimized N fertilization alternative, a biochar‐based fertilizer (BBF) enriched in plant‐available N, which was developed from the same biochar. We assessed environmental impacts such as greenhouse gasses (GHG) and NH3 emissions, yield‐scaled N2O emissions, and global warming potential (GWP). Additionally, we evaluated agronomical outcomes such as crop yield, plant N, and chlorophyll concentration. Moreover, we examined the N‐fixing gene's total and relative abundance (nifH and nifH/16S). Biochar and BBF exhibited similar crop yield, GHG, and NH3 emissions compared to split applications of the synthetic fertilizer. The main difference was associated with the higher soil C sequestration in biochar and BBF treatments that reduced the associated GWP of these fertilization strategies. Finally, biochar favored the activity of the N‐fixing bacteria spread, compared to the sole application of bacteria and BBF demonstrated a promoting effect in the soil's total abundance of natural N‐fixing bacteria.
Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis: Bismuth Enhances the Efficacy for Eradication of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Reum Choe A , Tae Chung Hyun , Choi Miyoung , Shim Ki‐Nam , Jung Hye‐Kyung
Published: October 2024

Background

In the eradication of Helicobacter pylori, the efficacy of bismuth remains inconclusive. We aimed to compare the efficacy of bismuth on various H. pylori eradication regimens.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials were collected to compare the efficacy of bismuth to nonbismuth regimens in H. pylori eradication. We pooled information to study eradication, adverse events, and drug compliance. In addition, subgroup analyses for eradication efficacy were performed according to high or low clarithromycin‐resistance area, bismuth drug form, and amount of bismuth element.

Results

Records for a total of 2506 patients in 15 trials from 13 randomized controlled studies were included. The eradication of H. pylori was superior when bismuth compared to nonbismuth regimen (odds ratio [OR] = 1.63, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.33–2.00 in intention‐to‐treat [ITT]; OR = 2.05, 95% CI, 1.58–2.68 in per‐protocol [PP] analyses), without significant difference in drug compliance or adverse events. Bismuth regimens in the high clarithromycin resistance area tend to enhance the eradication rate (OR = 1.66, 95% CI, 1.34–2.05 in ITT; OR = 2.22, 95% CI, 1.67–2.95 in PP analyses). Bismuth potassium citrate and bismuth subcitrate were more effective drug forms in regard to eradication rate. Bismuth at a dosage of < 500 mg/day was significantly higher for the eradication rate.

Conclusions

Bismuth to the H. pylori eradication regimens achieve a higher eradication rate, especially in the high clarithromycin resistance area. It could be an eradication option achieving sufficient resistance rates without increasing antibiotic resistance, side effects, or poor compliance.
Efficacy of Bismuth Therapy in Eradicating Helicobacter pylori in Children—Data From the RENIHp Registry
Authors: Botija Gonzalo , Galicia Gonzalo , Martínez Beatriz , Cuadrado Carmen , Soria Marta , Fernández Sonia , Urruzuno Pedro , Cilleruelo María‐Luz ,   SEGHNP H. pylori Working Group
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of colloidal bismuth subcitrate (CBS) therapy for the eradication of H. pylori in patients from a national pediatric registry of H. pylori infection.

Methods

The Spanish Registry of Children with H. pylori Infection (RENIHp) is a national, multi‐center, prospective, non‐interventional registry that includes children aged 5–18 years with H. pylori infection diagnosed by endoscopy. All patients in the registry who were treated with CBS between the period 2020 and 2023 were included in this study. The primary outcome was the eradication rate, which was assessed using a 13C‐urea breath test or monoclonal antigen in the stool 6–8 weeks post‐treatment.

Results

The registry included 682 patients, 38 (5.6%) of whom underwent treatment with CBS. Fifty percent (19/38) of patients had previously undergone unsuccessful eradication treatment. In 78.9% (30/38) of patients, treatment was guided by an antibiotic sensitivity test. In the remaining patients, an empirical approach was employed. The CBS therapies used were as follows: quadruple therapy with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), CBS, amoxicillin, and metronidazole (MET) [18/38 (47.3%)]; quadruple therapy with PPIs, CBS, tetracycline, and MET [13/38 (34.2%)]; and other therapies [7/38 (18.4%)]. Thirty‐two patients (84.2%) treated with CBS were followed‐up with eradication monitoring. The overall eradication rate in patients treated with CBS was 93.8% (30/32, [95% CI: 85.4%–100%]), whereas it was 86.7% in patients in the registry who were not on CBS treatment (430/496, [95% CI: 83.3%–89.5%], p = 0.208). In the six patients with dual resistance to clarithromycin (CLA) and MET who were treated with quadruple therapy with CBS, the eradication rate was 100% (n = 6/6, [95% CI: 61.0%–100%]).

Conclusion

CBS therapies in our registry, although only used in selected cases and at lower than recommended levels, were very effective and showed an eradication rate of > 90%.
Doing transdisciplinary research in Guyana's prisons
Authors: Ayres Tammy Colleen , Levine Diane , Anderson Clare , Moss Kellie , Kerrigan Dylan , Ifill Mellissa , Adams Estherine , Austin Nelroy , Cameron Queenela , Halliwell Martin , Jackson Shammane , Pilgrim Kevin , Toner Deborah , Warren Kristy
Published: October 2024

This article reflects on the research process that underpinned the ESRC GCRF project ‘Mental Health, Neurological and Substance Abuse Disorders in Guyana's Jails: 1825 to the present day’. Introducing readers to a transdisciplinary team comprised of academics and practitioners, in what follows we think through how the methods of the research underpinned the production of the data used in this special issue. The article highlights the emotional labour and ethics of care among the team, and the benefits of transdisciplinary research and the mutual recipriocity and learning that took place between academics and prison staff. The goal of the project was to create equitable and ethical partnerships, and this contributed to the success of this research in terms of findings, data, and real‐world impact.
Investigations of associations between TNF‐α promoter polymorphisms and genetic susceptibility to type 2 diabetes mellitus: A cross‐sectional study in Chinese Han population
Authors: Tao Wenyu , Wang Xiaoling , Yang Man , Zhou Xing , Yin Mingliu , Yang Ying , Li Yiping
Published: October 2024

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is characterised by insulin resistance and a relative shortage of insulin secretion. Tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) plays an important role in insulin resistance by impairing insulin signal transduction. The variants of the TNF‐α promoter region are considered to influence its transcription and are associated with the TNF‐α level. Therefore, it is worth detecting the association of the variants in the TNF‐α gene with the development of T2DM. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of five variants (rs1799964, rs1800630, rs1799724, rs1800629 and rs361525) in the TNF‐α gene promoter region with T2DM in a Chinese Han population. A total of 713 subjects with T2DM and 751 nondiabetic subjects were genotyped using the TaqMan method. The associations of the five variants with the development of T2DM were evaluated. The associations of the five variant genotypes with metabolic traits in nondiabetic subjects were analysed. Our data showed that the A allele of rs1800629 could increase the risk of developing T2DM (p = .002, OR = 1.563; 95% CI: 1.18–2.08). According to inheritance mode analysis, compared with the G/G genotype, the G/A+2A/A genotype of rs1800629 showed a risk effect on T2DM in the log‐additive mode (p = .002, OR = 1.56; 95% CI: 1.17–2.07). The haplotypes analysis identified that the rs1799724‐rs1800629CA was associated with high risk of the development of T2DM (p = .002, OR = 1.559, 95% CI: 1.173–2.072). Conversely, the rs1799724‐rs1800629CG was a protective haplotype of T2DM (p = .001, OR = 0.732, 95% CI: 0.607–0.884). Moreover, compared with the rs1799964 (T/T+C/T) genotype, the rs1799964 C/C genotype was associated with higher glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in nondiabetic subjects (p = .017). Our results revealed that the rs1800629 in the TNF‐α gene promoter region was associated with T2DM in a Chinese Han population.
Towards a heuristic view of managerial heuristics: Integrating divergent perspectives
Authors: Atanasiu Radu , Wickert Christopher , Khapova Svetlana N.
Published: October 2024

Managerial heuristics – simple methods for solving problems – are critical for key functions, such as deciding, strategizing, and organizing. Yet, research on managerial heuristics has been siloed into divergent streams, creating polarization among empirical findings and sparking numerous calls for integration. The goal of this review is to integrate different understandings of the construct, different processes examined by extant research, and divergent perspectives on heuristics’ performance into a coherent conceptual framework. We systematically reviewed 54 articles focusing on two complementary processes: the creation and the use of managerial heuristics. We discovered that research which describes the performance of heuristics as suboptimal focuses on the study of innate heuristics which are used reflexively; meanwhile, research which frames heuristics positively focuses on the study of learned heuristics which are used deliberately. We, thus, propose that the two perspectives on managerial heuristics are not contradictory but complementary. Based on this novel differentiation, we, first, aggregate the inputs and outcomes of creating and of using managerial heuristics into an integrative framework built around the manager's cognitive effort; second, we propose managerial heuristics as storage devices for managerial experience, time, cognitive effort and information about the environment; and third, we discuss implications for future research.
How do geriatricians practise comprehensive geriatric assessment in the outpatient setting: an analysis of geriatricians’ letters and a comparison to the Medicare benefits schedule requirement
Authors: Fox Sarah T. , Demichelis Olivia , Pond Constance Dimity , Janda Monika , Hubbard Ruth E.
Published: October 2024

Background

Little is known about what components geriatricians routinely incorporate into outpatient comprehensive geriatric assessments (CGAs).

Aims

This study explored what components of CGAs are routinely incorporated into geriatricians’ letters and assessed their consistency with the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) and a recently published survey of geriatricians.

Methods

We completed a manual content analysis, supplemented by qualitative thematic analysis, of 34 letters from five geriatricians, collected as part of the GOAL Trial.

Results

While more than 80% of letters included each of the key clinical domains described in the Medicare Benefits Schedule and survey of geriatricians, only 62% included advanced care planning and 47% mentioned immunisations. Forty‐seven percent of letters included goal setting. Few letters showed evidence of multidisciplinary working. Issues identified by the geriatrician centred around the themes of advance care planning, symptom identification and management, medical comorbidities, strategies to support quality of life and interventions to manage frailty. Patient concerns identified in the letters were cognition and mood, declining function, future planning and symptom management.

Conclusions

Analysis of geriatricians’ letters provides important and novel insights into usual CGA practice. The letters provide evidence of multidimensional assessments of physical, functional, social and psychological health, and most include use of standardised tools. However, less than 50% include evidence of goal setting or multidisciplinary working. The results allow consideration of how CGAs might be carried out in the outpatient setting, so that interventions focused on improving the quality and efficacy of this intervention can be implemented.
Measuring the 2022–2023 strike wave in Britain: ballots, participation and methodological implications
Authors: Hodder Andy , Mustchin Stephen
Published: October 2024

This paper analyses new forms of strike data published as a result of the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act. An unintended consequence of the Act is that we now have quantifiable data at the micro level, which has previously been unavailable, that helps us understand the various mechanisms at play in individual strikes. We analyse two disputes from the 2022‐2023 strike wave in detail (in NHS England and on the UK's rail system), and provide the first academic analysis of these new forms of strike data. The aim of the paper is to examine what these new forms of data can tell us about strikes using examples of two disputes. While the paper is not designed to be an in‐depth study of the strikes themselves, the use of these novel forms of data enable new insights into membership participation in strikes, and builds upon long‐standing analyses of the relative power resources of unions.
Disordered Eating in Early Adolescence: Disparities Among Minoritised Youth
Authors: Daniel Brittany , Suissa Avital , Liu Jianfang , Bruzzese Jean‐Marie , Jackman Kasey B. , Leonard Sarah I.
Published: October 2024

Background

Disordered eating in early adolescence impacts development, with long‐term health implications. Minoritised adolescents might be at higher risk of disordered eating due to minority stress, but most research has focused on White, heterosexual, cisgender individuals; less is known about disordered eating among minoritised adolescents. We examined sexual, gender, racial, and ethnic identities in relation to disordered eating in early adolescence.

Method

Using 2‐year follow‐up data from adolescents ages 10–14 in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study (N = 9385), we examined associations between sexual, gender, racial, and ethnic identities and past‐2 week disordered eating (preoccupation with weight, weight control behaviors, and binge eating).

Results

Compared to heterosexual peers, gay/bisexual adolescents had higher odds of all three outcomes (AOR 1.90–3.32); those “questioning” their sexual identity had higher odds of preoccupation with weight (AOR 1.82) and binge eating (AOR 2.53). Compared to cisgender adolescents, transgender adolescents had higher odds of binge eating (AOR 2.62); those “questioning” their gender identity had higher odds of preoccupation with weight (AOR 2.45). Adolescents whose racial identity was categorised as “Another” had higher odds of preoccupation with weight (AOR 1.46) and weight control behaviors (AOR 1.58) compared to White adolescents. Finally, Hispanic adolescents had higher odds of all disordered eating outcomes than non‐Hispanic adolescents (AOR 1.25–1.59).

Discussion

This study is among the first to reveal disparities in disordered eating among minoritised early adolescents. Further examination of these disparities can inform future interventions. Healthcare providers are encouraged to screen for disordered eating, recognising that minoritised early adolescents may be at risk.
The Attitudes, Beliefs and Perspectives of Registered Nurses on Sleep Health Management in Residential Aged Care Facilities: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Gordon Christopher J. , Fernandez Tracee , Chen Emily , Mansour Elissar , Basheti Mariam , Saini Bandana
Published: October 2024

Aim

To explore the attitudes, beliefs and perspectives of registered nurses (RNs) regarding sleep health and sleep health management of residents living in aged care settings in Australia.

Design

Qualitative inductive thematic analysis of semi‐structured interviews.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with RNs working in residential aged care facilities using a topic guide between August 2021 and April 2022. Participants were recruited using a convenience‐based and snowball sampling approach. Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim and inductively analysed for emergent themes.

Results

Eighteen interviews were conducted with RNs working in aged care. Thematic analysis of the data derived three main themes: (i) Awareness and observations of sleep health, (ii) assessment and management of sleep disturbances and (iii) barriers to implementing evidence‐based sleep health management. It was found that the most common barrier to providing evidence‐based sleep health practices was related to workplace constraints. Participants detailed the limitations of the RN's professional role and ability to work autonomously in sleep health practices.

Conclusion

Despite the intentions of RNs to implement evidence‐based non‐pharmacological strategies for sleep health management, pharmacological interventions prevail. Systemic efforts to address organisational constraints in aged care may improve sleep disturbance management and assist with shifting the current attitudes around sleep health in aged care facilities.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

This study highlights that current sleep health management of residents in residential aged care is inadequate. Upskilling nurses in sleep health care techniques and improving organisational commitment to such care provision are issues urgently required to enhance the sleep health of residents.

Impact

Current sleep health practices are not evidence‐based in residential aged care. Optimising sleep practices in residential aged care that are person‐centred is likely to improve quality of life and healthy ageing.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
From roadblocks to property damage: How injustice perceptions and trust in authorities are associated with participation in nonnormative climate protest
Authors: Jansma Amarins , Van den Bos Kees , De Graaf Beatrice A.
Published: October 2024

The climate crisis calls for radical action, but what drives people to engage in climate protest? We recruited respondents during protests of Extinction Rebellion in the Netherlands and examined how intentions to engage in normative action (e.g., protest march), moderate nonnormative action (e.g., roadblock), and openness to more extreme nonnormative action (e.g., property damage) related to perceived injustice and trust in authorities. Study 1 found that perceived injustice was linked to all action intentions, while trust was only negatively associated with nonnormative protest. Study 2 revealed that nonnormative protest was specifically related to lower trust in democracy, judges, and the police. Furthermore, moderate action intentions were related to various injustice perceptions, whereas extreme actions were exclusively linked to social injustice.
PULPO: A framework for efficient integration of life cycle inventory models into life cycle product optimization
Authors: Lechtenberg Fabian , Istrate Robert , Tulus Victor , Espuña Antonio , Graells Moisès , Guillén‐Gosálbez Gonzalo
Published: October 2024

This work presents the PULPO (Python‐based user‐defined lifecycle product optimization) framework, developed to efficiently integrate life cycle inventory (LCI) models into life cycle product optimization. Life cycle optimization (LCO), which has found interest in both the process systems engineering and life cycle assessment (LCA) communities, leverages LCA data to go beyond simple assessments of a limited number of alternatives and identify the best possible product systems configuration subject to a manifold of choices, constraints, and objectives. However, typically, aggregated inventories are used to build the optimization problems. Contrary to existing frameworks, PULPO integrates whole LCI databases and user inventories as a backbone for the optimization problem, considering economy‐wide feedback loops between fore‐ and background systems that would otherwise be omitted. The open‐source implementation combines functions from Brightway2 for the manipulation of inventory data and pyomo for the formulation and solution of the optimization problem. The advantages of this approach are demonstrated in a case study focusing on the design of optimal future global green methanol production systems from captured CO2 and electrolytic H2. It is shown that the approach can be used to assess sector‐coupling with multi‐functional processes and prospective background databases that would otherwise be impractical to approach from a standalone LCA perspective. The use of PULPO is particularly appealing when evaluating large‐scale decisions that have a strong impact on socioeconomic systems, resulting in changes in the technosphere on which the background system is based and which is often assumed constant in standard LCO approaches regardless of the decisions taken. This article met the requirements for a gold‐gold JIE data openness badge described at http://jie.click/badges.
The receptor‐like cytoplasmic kinase OsBSK1‐2 regulates immunity via an HLH/bHLH complex
Authors: Wang Xun , Diao Zhijuan , Cao Chang , Liu Yan , Xia Na , Zhang Youlian , Lu Ling , Kong Fanyu , Zhou Houli , Chen Lizhe , Zhang Jing , Wang Bangsheng , Huang Ronghua , Tang Dingzhong , Li Shengping
Published: October 2024

Plants need to fine‐tune defense responses to maintain a robust but flexible host barrier to various pathogens. Helix‐loop‐helix/basic helix‐loop‐helix (HLH/bHLH) complexes play important roles in fine‐tuning plant development. However, the function of these genes in plant immunity and how they are regulated remain obscure. Here, we identified an atypical bHLH transcription factor, Oryza sativa (Os)HLH46, that interacts with rice receptor‐like cytoplasmic kinase (RLCK) Os BRASSINOSTEROID‐SIGNALING KINASE1‐2 (OsBSK1‐2), which plays a key role in rice blast resistance. OsBSK1‐2 stabilized OsHLH46 both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, OsHLH46 positively regulates rice blast resistance, which depends on OsBSK1‐2. OsHLH46 has no transcriptional activation activity and interacts with a typical bHLH protein, OsbHLH6, which negatively regulates rice blast resistance. OsbHLH6 binds to the promoter of OsWRKY45 and inhibits its expression, while OsHLH46 suppresses the function of OsbHLH6 by blocking its DNA binding and transcriptional inhibition of OsWRKY45. Consistent with these findings, OsWRKY45 was up‐regulated in OsHLH46‐overexpressing plants. In addition, the oshlh46 mutant overexpressing OsbHLH6 is more susceptible to Magnaporthe oryzae than is the wild type, suggesting that OsHLH46 suppresses OsbHLH6‐mediated rice blast resistance. Our results not only demonstrated that OsBSK1‐2 regulates rice blast resistance via the OsHLH46/OsbHLH6 complex, but also uncovered a new mechanism for plants to fine‐tune plant immunity by regulating the HLH/bHLH complex via RLCKs.
Proinflammatory microglial activation impairs in vitro cortical tissue repair via zinc‐dependent ADAM17 cleavage of the CSF‐1 receptor
Authors: Hernandez‐Espinosa Diego R. , Medina‐Ruiz Gabriela I. , Scrabis Mia G. , Thathiah Amantha , Aizenman Elias
Published: October 2024

Infection and subsequent inflammatory processes negatively impact prognosis in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Tissue repair following TBI is tightly regulated by microglia, promoting or, importantly, preventing astrocyte‐mediated repair processes, depending on the activation state of the neuroimmune cells. This study investigated the poorly understood mechanism linking proinflammatory microglia activation and astrocyte‐mediated tissue repair using an in vitro mechanical injury model in mixed cortical cultures of rat neurons and glia. We hypothesized that proinflammatory activation disrupts the microglial response to colony‐stimulating factor 1 (CSF‐1), which stimulates microglia migration and proliferation, both essential for astrocyte‐mediated tissue repair. Following mechanical damage, cultures were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon‐gamma (IFNγ) to induce a proinflammatory state. Immunocytochemical and biochemical analyses were used to evaluate glial repair. Proinflammatory activation dramatically impeded wound closure, reducing microglial levels via upregulation of the zinc‐dependent disintegrin and metalloprotease 17 (ADAM17), leading to the cleavage of the CSF‐1 receptor (CSF‐1R). Indeed, pharmacological inhibition of ADAM17 effectively promoted wound closure during inflammation. Moreover, zinc chelation prevented ADAM17‐mediated cleavage of CSF‐1R and induced the release of trophic factors, dramatically improving tissue recovery. Our findings strongly identify ADAM17 as a primary regulator of CSF‐1R‐mediated signaling and establish a mechanism defining the association between pro‐inflammatory microglial activation and tissue repair following injury.

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Mind the GAPS: Glia associated with psychological stress
Authors: Blank Niklas , Weiner Molly , Patel Shaan , Köhler Sarah , Thaiss Christoph A.
Published: October 2024

Glial cells are an integral component of the nervous system, performing crucial functions that extend beyond structural support, including modulation of the immune system, tissue repair, and maintaining tissue homeostasis. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of glial cells as key mediators of stress responses across different organs. This review focuses on the roles of glial cells in peripheral tissues in health and their involvement in diseases linked to psychological stress. Populations of glia associated with psychological stress (“GAPS”) emerge as a promising target cell population in our basic understanding of stress‐associated pathologies, highlighting their role as mediators of the deleterious effects of psychological stress on various health conditions. Ultimately, new insights into the impact of stress on glial cell populations in the periphery may support clinical efforts aimed at improving the psychological state of patients for improved health outcomes.
Effects of capsaicin on esophageal peristalsis in humans using high resolution manometry
Authors: Lei Wei‐Yi , Hung Jui‐Sheng , Wong Ming‐Wun , Liu Tso‐Tsai , Yi Chih‐Hsun , Gyawali C. Prakash , Chen Chien‐Lin
Published: October 2024

Background

Capsaicin‐containing red pepper sauce suspension augments esophageal contraction amplitude on conventional manometry. This study used high‐resolution manometry (HRM) to investigate if capsaicin infusion modulates segmental esophageal smooth muscle peristalsis in healthy adults.

Methods

Sixteen healthy volunteers (mean age 37 years, 14 male) underwent HRM for the evaluation of primary peristalsis and secondary peristalsis using slow and rapid air distensions. Both primary and secondary peristalsis were assessed following infusions of capsaicin‐containing red pepper sauce and saline.

Key Results

Capsaicin infusion significantly increased heartburn symptoms compared to saline infusion (p < 0.001), and significantly decreased threshold volumes of secondary peristalsis during rapid air distensions (p = 0.02). The frequency of secondary peristalsis during rapid air distensions was significantly increased by capsaicin infusion (p = 0.03). Neither capsaicin infusion (p = 0.06) nor saline infusion (p = 0.27) altered threshold volume during slow air distensions. Capsaicin infusion significantly increased distal contractile integral (DCI) of primary peristalsis (p = 0.04), particularly in the proximal smooth muscle segment (p = 0.048). It enhanced secondary peristalsis during rapid air distensions (p = 0.003) but not during slow air distension (p = 0.23). Saline infusion significantly increased DCI of secondary peristalsis during rapid air distension (p = 0.01).

Conclusions and Inferences

Augmentation of distension‐induced secondary peristalsis can be modulated by activation of capsaicin‐sensitive afferents similar to mechanosensitive afferents. Capsaicin‐induced augmentation of primary peristalsis isolates to the cholinergic‐mediated proximal smooth muscle segment, which warrants study in ineffective esophageal motility to determine therapeutic potential.
MpPUB9, a U‐box E3 ubiquitin ligase, acts as a positive regulator by promoting the turnover of MpEXO70.1 under high salinity in Marchantia polymorpha
Authors: Lim Cheol Jin , Seo Hyeon Ji , Yin Haijing , Cho Na Hyun , Yang Hee Woong , Park Tae Hyeon , Kim Yun Ju , Kim Woo Taek , Seo Dong Hye
Published: October 2024

Marchantia polymorpha, occupying a basal position in the monophyletic assemblage of land plants, displays a notable expansion of plant U‐box (PUB) proteins compared with those in animals.

We elucidated the roles of MpPUB9 in regulating salt stress tolerance in M. polymorpha. MpPUB9 expression was rapidly induced by high salinity and dehydration. MpPUB9 possessed an intact U‐box domain in the N‐terminus. MpPUB9‐Citrine localized to punctate structures and was peripherally associated with microsomal membranes. Phenotypic analyses demonstrate that the hyponastic and epinastic thallus growth phenotypes, which were induced by the overexpression and suppression of MpPUB9, may provoke salt stress‐resistant and ‐susceptible phenotypes, respectively.

MpPUB9 was also found to directly interact with the exocyst protein MpEXO70.1, leading to its ubiquitination. Under high‐salinity conditions, though the stability of MpPUB9 was dramatically increased, MpEXO70.1 showed slightly faster turnover rates. Transcriptome analyses showed that salt treatment and the overexpression of MpPUB9 co‐upregulated the genes related to the modulation of H2O2 and cell wall organization.

Overall, our results suggest that MpPUB9 plays a crucial role in the positive regulation of salt stress tolerance, resulting from its interaction with MpEXO70.1 and modulating turnover of the protein under high‐salt conditions via the coordination of UPS with autophagy.
The Book of Genesis and other allegorical origin stories of games
Authors: Walther Bo Kampmann
Published: October 2024

This essay delves into the complex interplay between the sacred and the ludic, with a particular emphasis on allegorical origin stories from various religious and mythological traditions, highlighting their portrayal of games and the concept of play. The analysis includes the Judaeo‐Christian Book of Genesis and the Babylonian Enuma Elish. In addition, I explore ‘secular’ texts such as Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quixote, Mark Twain's The Diaries of Adam and Eve, and Tom Stoppard's Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead. These latter works share a common theme: whimsical characters who originate from game rules and persistently seek to comprehend the underlying mechanisms of their existence and the ‘scripted’ actions they are compelled to perform.
Meeting Report From the 2023 Cure Ocular Melanoma (CURE OM) Global Science Meeting, Philadelphia, PA, November 2023
Authors: Seedor Rino S. , Aplin Andrew E. , Bertolotto Corine , Carvajal Richard D. , Deacon Nigel , Doble Katie , Hamid Omid , Haq Rizwan , Kadosh Miriam , Khan Shaheer , Kraska Jacqueline , Lutzky Jose , McKean Meredith , Montazeri Kamaneh , Moser Justin , Onken Michael , Orloff Marlana , Sacco Joseph J. , Smalley Keiran , Selig Sara M.
Published: October 2024

The 2023 Cure Ocular Melanoma (CURE OM) Global Science Meeting was held in Philadelphia on November 6, 2023. There is increased awareness and dedicated research in uveal melanoma (UM), but unmet needs remain in the prevention, detection, and treatment of UM. The purpose of this meeting was to provide an international forum for the exchange of research ideas, to allow for discussion of basic science as well as clinical research on UM, and to gather input about advocacy and patient needs.
Perioperative Complications After Pediatric Liver Transplantation—A Retrospective Analysis of 421 Cases
Authors: Weigle Clara A. , Wiemann Bengt A. , Tessmer Philipp , Störzer Simon , Novikova Valeriya , Richter Nicolas , Klempnauer Jürgen , Pfister Eva‐D. , Baumann Ulrich , Leiskau Christoph , Vondran Florian W. R. , Oldhafer Felix , Beetz Oliver
Published: October 2024

Background

Due to the low incidence of pediatric liver transplantations, short‐ and long‐term data regarding their outcome, details on early postoperative complications and their risk factors are under‐represented in the literature.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 1645 LTx performed at Hannover Medical School between January 2005 and December 2021. Of these, 421 transplantations were performed in 405 pediatric recipients. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regressions were performed to identify independent risk factors for the onset of selected perioperative complications requiring intervention within the first 30 days following transplantation and their influence on graft and patient survival.

Results

Pleural effusions represent the most common postoperative complication observed in 49.4% (n = 208) of cases, followed by vascular complications in 22.6% (n = 95) and biliary complications in 20.0% (n = 84) of cases. Donor age (OR: 1.019; p = 0.010) and recipient age between 3 and 12 years (OR: 1.849; p = 0.008) were identified as independent risk factors for the onset of pleural effusions. Retransplantations within the first year after LTx were necessary in 11.4% of all cases (n = 48). Twenty (4.8%) patients died within the first year after LTx.

Conclusion

Pleural effusions requiring postoperative intervention were observed in approximately half of the pediatric recipients. Therefore, the preemptive intraoperative placement of a chest drain under sterile conditions and general anesthesia should be considered. Our data further indicate that a two‐stage procedure for biliary reconstruction may be the preferred procedure in patients at risk of early bile duct complications and retransplantation within the first year.
Using a virtual reality game to train biofeedback‐based regulation under stress conditions
Authors: Daniel‐Watanabe Lucie , Cook Benjamin , Leung Grace , Krstulović Marino , Finnemann Johanna , Woolley Toby , Powell Craig , Fletcher Paul
Published: October 2024

Physiological regulation strategies can be effective in reducing anxiety. However, while these strategies are often learned and practised under low‐stress conditions, they are more likely to be required under conditions of high stress. We created virtual reality (VR) biofeedback games to both teach participants a breathing technique and then practise that technique under stress. We present two studies: the first provides a proof of concept, demonstrating that participants can apply the breathing technique during stress, with a significant lowering of both respiration rate and increase in heart rate variability (HRV) under stress (p < .001). The second study explicitly evaluated the effectiveness of training by comparing trained and untrained groups. Training was associated with a significantly greater HRV (p = .008) under stress. In within‐group comparisons of HRV during stress compared to a baseline stressor presented before training, the trained group showed a significantly greater increase compared to untrained controls (p = .025). Our results show the feasibility and potential effectiveness of VR‐based games for biofeedback training under experimentally applied stress. This may offer the opportunity for clinical techniques to more closely reflect the circumstances under which those techniques will be required.
Influence of Dietary Fatty Acids on Fish Sperm Tolerance to Cryopreservation
Authors: Figueroa Villalobos Elías , Pereira Wellison Amorim , Pérez‐Atehortúa Maritza , Sandoval‐Vargas Leydy , Romero J. , Oliveira Ricardo P. S. , Valdebenito Iván , Villasante Alejandro
Published: October 2024

To meet growing fish demand, aquaculture must develop sustainable, cost‐effective, and high‐performance fish feed formulations for industry advancement. Plant‐based lipids are a viable alternative to forage fish ingredients in finfish diets. However, most plant‐derived lipids lack long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC‐PUFA) like EPA and DHA, which are nutritionally essential for fish. This review summarizes recent findings on the nutritional aspects of fish brood stock and sperm quality, emphasizing the effects of fatty acids on reproductive outcomes. Studies indicate that substituting fish oil with plant oils alters the fatty acid profiles in fish tissues and gametes, potentially compromising sperm quality, cryopreservation success, and progeny viability. Sperm membrane lipids, including EPA, DHA, and ARA, are vital for motility and fertilization rates post‐thaw. Additionally, cryopreservation has been linked to molecular and epigenetic alterations in sperm, which may negatively affect offspring quality. The role of mRNA and noncoding RNA in regulating sperm function and embryonic development is well known, and thus any damage to these molecules as a consequence of cryopreservation might induce long‐term effects on offspring. Proteomic analyses reveal that cryopreservation can lead to significant protein loss in sperm, diminishing their functional and fertilization capabilities. Optimizing cryoprotectant protocols and freezing techniques is crucial to reduce damage, while dietary fatty acids play a key role in preserving sperm quality during cryopreservation stress. Further research with omic technologies is crucial to fully understand sperm tolerance to cryopreservation, which will improve reproductive outcomes and enhance sustainability and quality in aquaculture.
Biosafety in Norwegian Aquaculture—Risks and Measures in RAS Facilities and Well‐Boats
Authors: Slette Hans Tobias , Salomonsen Cecilie , Størkersen Kristine , Tveit Guro Møen , Misund Andreas , Lona Eivind
Published: October 2024

Biosafety is a central concern in Norwegian salmon farming, as diseases and parasites are common. Continued production depends on preventing and controlling diseases and parasites. A critical part of the farmed salmon's life is during smolt production and the following well‐boat transport out to sea. Biosafety here is thus essential, and there is a need for an overview of risk factors and measures. Biosafety is related to the technical solutions' design, construction, cleaning, and maintenance, that can be studied through field work, interviews, and document analysis. This paper presents results from a study identifying risk factors related to technical solutions in smolt production (with RAS—recirculating aquaculture systems) and well‐boats, and potential measures to reduce risk. Risk factors for RAS facilities are divided into four main groups: Introduction of pathogens to the facility, spread of pathogens inside the facility, growth of pathogens inside the facility, and additional risks. Risk factors for well‐boats are divided into three main groups: Introduction of pathogens through intake water, spread of pathogens between fish groups, and spread of pathogens from well‐boat to the environment. Measures are proposed to mitigate the identified risk factors. The lists are not exhaustive, and risk magnitude is not quantified, so effect of measures is not calculated. Still, the measures' potential for risk reduction and implementation (cost/benefit) are discussed, suggesting measures vital for biosafety in RAS facilities and well‐boats.
Low Testosterone Concentration Improves Colonisation and Viability in the Co‐Cultured Goat Spermatogonial Stem Cell With Sertoli Cells
Authors: Salimi Hossein , Rahimi Feyli Peyman , Yari Kheirollah , Wong Alexei , Moghaddam Ali Asghar
Published: October 2024

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) maintain spermatogenesis through self‐renewal and differentiation. The proliferation of SSCs in culture systems can provide a valuable source of germ cells. Several studies have investigated new reproductive technologies, including the production of transgenic animals and recombinant proteins secreted from milk in goats. While studies in other species exist, research on goat SSC culture remains limited. We investigated the impact of different testosterone concentrations on the survival and colonisation of cocultured goat SSCs with Sertoli cells. Cells were isolated from immature goats using two‐step enzymatic digestion and enriched by differential exclusion method. DMEM/F12 culture medium containing 1% antibiotic and 5% FBS, supplemented with GDNF (20 ng/mL), EGF, bFGF and LIF (10 ng/mL), was used with different testosterone concentrations (0, 60, 120 and 240 μg/mL) and cultured for 10 days. SC subpopulations were confirmed using PGP9.5 immunocytochemistry, and the expression of germ cell markers (ID‐4, UCHL‐1, THY‐1, β1‐integrin, BCL6B, VASA, PLZF and OCT‐4) was evaluated through RT‐PCR. Alkaline phosphatase activity provided additional SSC presence. The survival rate of SSCs after isolation and the number and area of colonies on Days 4, 7 and 10 were measured using an inverted microscope. The presence of PGP 9.5 antigens and germ cell markers (ID‐4, UCHL‐1, THY‐1, β1‐integrin, BCL6B, VASA, PLZF and OCT‐4) was confirmed by immunocytochemistry and RT‐PCR, respectively. According to the results, the group with 60 μg/mL testosterone had the highest number and area of colonies. The number of colonies in the 60 μg/mL testosterone group was significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.05), but no significant difference was observed compared to other groups (p ≥ 0.05). This study suggests that a low testosterone concentration (60 μg/mL) is optimal for goat SSC colonisation and viability in coculture with Sertoli cells, potentially leading to advancements in goat reproductive technologies.
Parental time investments and instantaneous well‐being in the United States
Authors: Bosworth Steven J. , Gimenez‐Nadal José Ignacio , Sevilla Almudena
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the relationship between maternal education, child‐care time, and well‐being in the United States, with a particular focus on the role of societal norms. Highly educated mothers spend more time on childcare compared to their less educated counterparts. Drawing on data from the American Time Use Survey's Well‐Being Modules (2012, 2013, 2021), this research provides a comprehensive examination of maternal activities and well‐being. Notably, educated mothers consistently experience reduced instantaneous happiness during childcare, across various caregiving tasks, despite investing greater time in them. To better understand this pattern, we introduce an identity economics model whose predictions are consonant with the empirical findings. Our model illustrates how societal gender roles differentially influence patterns of time allocation by mothers' education and impact their instantaneous and overall well‐being.
Towards a Decolonial and Anti‐Racist Analysis of the Nation‐State and Nationalism
Authors: Dragoș Simina
Published: October 2024

This paper addresses two calls emerging out of Sociological theory—against methodological nationalism and methodological whiteness—in relation to the study of nations, nation‐states and nationalisms. Building on Meghji's synergy of decolonial and race critical theory, I propose a historicized and globalized analysis of nationalisms and the nation‐state which can respond to these calls whilst also being attentive to the nation‐state and nationalism as sites of violence. I insist upon the importance of understanding ‘race’ and coloniality as foundational aspects to the emergence and functioning of nationalisms and nation‐states. I do so based on the empirical case of the nation‐state Romania and Romanian nationalism, what I call a ‘colonial gray zone’. I argue: (1) that modern colonialism and imperialism shaped the emergence of nation‐states and that, as a result, coloniality shapes the functioning of nation‐states and nationalisms; (2) that modern/colonial ‘race’ is central to the emergence and operation of nation‐states and nationalisms. Ultimately, I urge those concerned with the study of nations, nation‐states and nationalisms to shift their analytical tools towards coloniality and racism, and the scholarship and struggles against them.
Metabolomic differences between exanthematous drug eruption and infectious mononucleosis
Authors: Liu Yanqiu , Guan Qizhen , Liu Liyuan , Ma Lina , Duan Xinsuo , Che Jiaozi
Published: October 2024

Background

Exanthematous drug eruption and infectious mononucleosis (IM) are both exanthematous diseases. Current research on exanthematous drug eruption and IM mainly targets identifying these disorders, the resulting differences at the metabolism level have not yet been systematically analyzed.

Materials and methods

A total of 30 cases of exanthematous drug eruption and IM, 10 patients without exanthema and 10 healthy volunteers were enrolled, 3 mL of fasting venous blood was collected, the serum metabolite content was detected by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry metabolomics.

Results

A total of 165 metabolites were identified, exhibiting significant differences in plasma metabolic trends between exanthematous drug eruption and IM, and pinpointed 28 potential biomarkers. Notable changes were seen in the metabolic activities of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA‐cycle), and galactose metabolism, characterized by increased levels of gluconate, gluconolactone, glucose, galactaric acid, and mannose, along with decreased amounts of pyruvic acid, succinic acid, malic acid, and glycerol, indicating an impairment in the exanthematous drug eruption group's capacity to endure oxidative stress and regulate energy metabolism. In contrast to its medication without rash counterpart, the exanthematous drug eruption group's plasma displayed distinct metabolic routes, predominantly in the processing of arginine and proline, along with the TCA. This resulted in a marked reduction in urea levels and a rise in pyruvate, citrate, and ornithine, indicating hypoxic stress as the primary cause of these rashes. In contrast to the healthy control group, the IM group showed 26 potential biomarkers, marked by increased levels of ketoglutaric acid, malic acid, pyruvic acid, and oxoglutaric acid, and reduced amounts of glutamine, galacturonic acid, arachidonic acid, trimethylphosphonic acid ester, gluconolactone, and indole acetic acid. Mainly, the metabolic pathways included the TCA, breaking down alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, and the processing of D‐glutamine and D‐glutamate metabolism, underscoring the body's crucial role in generating energy and inflammatory agents through the citric acid cycle.

Conclusions

The comparison of serum metabolomic features of exanthematous drug eruptions and IM outlines a unique pattern closely related to the differences in the pathogenesis of these two exanthematous diseases.