bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of fathers' involvement and supportive coparenting partnership on Taiwanese new mothers' postpartum adjustment
Authors: Wu Chih‐Wen , Chou Li‐Tuan , Cheng Ching‐Ling , Tu Miao‐Ju
Published: April 2024

Objective

In the present study, the cognitive theory of stress and coping was adopted as a framework and a mediation model was developed to investigate the long‐term effect of fathers' involvement in child care and mothers' appraisal of a supportive coparenting partnership (SCP) on postpartum depressed mood (PDM) and parenting self‐efficacy (PSE) in Taiwanese new mothers.

Background

Due to the risk of PDM and low PSE, many new mothers struggle with first‐time motherhood. It is therefore meaningful to investigate the benefits of potential protective factors that can reduce the risk of PDM and enhance PSE, such as fathers' involvement in child care and mothers' appraisal of an SCP, to improve new mothers' postpartum adjustment.

Method

Using secondary data from the nationwide longitudinal project Kids in Taiwan, we analyzed data provided by 2,020 Taiwanese new mothers at 3 and 6 months after delivery. We conducted structural equation modeling to test our hypothetical mediation model.

Results

Fathers' involvement in child care was significantly positively related to mothers' appraisal of an SCP, which in turn had a significant effect on reducing the risk of PDM and increasing PSE in Taiwanese new mothers both concurrently and 3 months later.

Conclusion

This study highlighted the concurrent and long‐term benefits of fathers' involvement in child care for new mothers' postpartum adjustment and the importance of new mothers' appraisal of an SCP as a significant mediator.

Implications

These findings warrant the attention and efforts of family life educators, marriage counselors, and other experts in related fields to promote better parenting experiences for new parents.
Wild insects and honey bees are equally important to crop yields in a global analysis
Authors: Reilly James , Bartomeus Ignasi , Simpson Dylan , Allen‐Perkins Alfonso , Garibaldi Lucas , Winfree Rachael
Published: April 2024

Aim

Most of the world's food crops are dependent on pollinators. However, there is a great deal of uncertainty in the strength of this relationship, especially regarding the relative contributions of the honey bee (often a managed species) and wild insects to crop yields on a global scale. Previous data syntheses have likewise reached differing conclusions on whether pollinator species diversity, or only the number of pollinator visits to flowers, is important to crop yield. This study quantifies the current state of these relationships and links to a dynamic version of our analyses that updates automatically as studies become available.

Location

Global.

Time Period

Present.

Taxa studied

Insect pollinators of global crops.

Methods

Using a newly created database of 93 crop pollination studies across six continents that roughly triples the number of studies previously available, we analysed the relationship between insect visit rates, pollinator diversity, and crop yields in a series of mixed‐effects models.

Results

We found that honey bees and wild insects contribute roughly equal amounts to crop yields worldwide, having similar average flower visitation rates and producing similar increases in yield per visit. We also found that pollinator species diversity was positively associated with increased crop yields even when total visits from all species are accounted for, though it was less explanatory than the total number of visits itself.

Main conclusions

Our analysis suggests a middle ground where honey bees are not responsible for the vast majority of crop pollination as has often been assumed in the agricultural literature, and likewise wild insects are not vastly more important than honey bees, as recent global analyses have reported. We also conclude that while pollinator diversity is less important than the number of pollinator visits, these typically involve many species, underscoring the importance of conserving a diversity of wild pollinators.
Framing social–ecological transformation as a geographical concept
Authors: Kister Jutta , Dorn Felix M. , Hafner Robert
Published: April 2024

Global challenges call for timely social–ecological transformation. There is a substantial amount of literature on social–ecological transformation, increasingly replacing and going beyond ‘sustainability’. However, the concept itself is used very inconsistently. This paper aims at identifying and systematizing the strains of argumentation that encompass the social–ecological transformation. Adding German‐speaking literature to the Anglophone debate, we systematize as we follow the concept's genesis to its varieties of use within context‐based (spatial, temporal, and societal) disciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary debates. Building on the various strands of contemporary use, this paper aims at contouring the epistemologies of the concept. Lastly, we illustrate the roles of geographical research approaches and the assigned methodology. We argue that the strands tend to drift apart and cannot be seen nor used as a singular uniform approach. We identify the key dimensions of how scholars use social–ecological transformation, unearthing underlying epistemologies. To conclude, we delineate key elements that geographical research on social–ecological transformation must address, laying the foundation for further scholarly debate.
Insights and recommendations for working collaboratively and improving care in Alzheimer's disease: Learnings from the Finding Alzheimer's Solutions Together (F.A.S.T.) Council
Authors: Roeser Jannice , Bayliss Nikki , Blom Marco , Croney Ruth , Lanman Lydia , Laks Jerson , Lyons Marco , Proulx Lea , Tsatali Marianna , Westerlund Karin , Georges Jean
Published: April 2024

Background

Collaborations between patient organisations (POs) and the pharmaceutical industry can help identify and address the unmet needs of people living with a disease. In Alzheimer's disease (AD), the scale and complexity of the current unmet needs call for a broad and cross‐sectoral collaboration, including people living with Alzheimer's (PLWA), their care partners and the wider research community.

Objective

This study aimed to describe learnings from the Finding Alzheimer's Solutions Together (F.A.S.T.) Council, a collaboration between POs and Roche, convened to better understand the unmet needs of PLWA and their care partners.

Results

1. Learnings from the collaboration, including clarifying objectives and members' expectations upfront, and establishing a set of guiding values and engagement principles. 2. Insights and recommendations for improving care in AD, including a wide range of unmet needs and potential solutions, systematically captured throughout the PLWA journey. These have resulted in several published reports and other outcomes, including (1) ‘Portraits of care’, highlighting the role of care partners, and the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on care; (2) Clinical trial guidebook, recommending how PLWA and care partner experience can be incorporated into trial design; (3) ‘Commitments Catalogue’, highlighting progress by governmental organisations in achieving their commitments; and (4) a report to guide policy on improving diversity, equity and inclusion in clinical trials.

Conclusions

Close collaboration between POs and the pharmaceutical industry in AD can enable effective research, in which PLWA and care partners are engaged as ‘experts through experience’ to help identify key unmet needs and co‐create solutions with the wider AD research community. This paper and the work undertaken by the F.A.S.T. Council may act as a blueprint for meaningful collaboration between POs and the pharmaceutical industry.

Patient or Public Contribution

The paper reports the collaboration between POs, the F.A.S.T. Council and Roche to progress towards a future in which PLWA can live fulfilling lives with their disease managed well.

Clinical Trial Registration

Not applicable.
TRUE NORTH*
Authors: Kleinberg Ethan
Published: April 2024

In this article, I suggest that our current relation to the sociopolitical future is one where we are blocked from changing our view of what that future is or could be. In this sense, we are trapped in a time loop wherein the challenges before us are continuously met with social and political solutions designed for futures past, old futures. These past possible futures are ones that failed to solve the problems they were offered to address. As such, there is no growth, change, or redemption that could activate a new future; there is only the rehearsal of the old ones: failed futures from the past. What's more, this process of defuturing also relies on a winnowing of the past such that only those pasts that align with our present are allowed to be brought forward. I argue that, to reactivate our future, we also need to reactivate our pasts. I am thinking of those pasts that we do not seek or do not want but that nevertheless come to us. These are the multiple and competing pasts that swirl with present and future as in a vortex, denying any one past the privilege of guiding, directing, or foreclosing the future. It is only by facing this vortex and reopening the past that we can re‐open the future and escape the time loop of our ever‐receding horizon.
Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry‐based electronic nose, glycosidically bound volatile, and alcohol‐acyltransferase activity profiles of Okinawan pineapple
Authors: Asikin Yonathan , Kohama Annu , Kudaka Tomomasa , Maekawa Ryota , Kobayashi Takuya , Takeuchi Makoto , Kamiyoshihara Yusuke , Takara Kensaku , Wada Koji
Published: April 2024

A recent increase in the demand for pineapple necessitates the development of new varieties with superior flavour quality. In this study, we characterised the volatile profiles of three new Okinawan pineapple breeding lines using gas chromatography (GC)–mass spectrometry (MS)‐based electronic nose (e‐nose), glycosylated volatiles, and alcohol‐acyltransferase (AAT) activity measurements. The volatile profiles of the fruits were selected using the GC–MS‐e‐nose and visualised using multivariate statistical plots. The glycosidically bound compounds were collected by solid‐phase extraction and hydrolysed by β‐glucosidase. In total, 12 hydroxyl‐group substances, including chavicol (medicinal‐herbal aroma), geraniol (floral‐sweet), and linalool (floral‐citrus), were released from these glycosides. Crude enzymes containing AAT were extracted, and their in vitro activities in 2‐methylbutyl acetate production were highly related to their contents. These results provide information regarding volatile profiles and bounded‐aroma resources, as well as the esterification potential of new Okinawan pineapple breeding lines for use in the agro‐food industry.
Initial outcomes and surgical techniques of prostatic urethral lift for benign prostatic hyperplasia in Japan
Authors: Anan Go , Kaga Kanya , Fujishima Yosuke , Minami Hidero , Mueller Thomas , Sussman David
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The prostatic urethral lift (PUL) has been used as a minimally invasive surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) since April 2022 in Japan. This study evaluated the initial outcomes and surgical techniques of PUL for BPH.

Methods

In this prospective, single‐center study, indications were based on the proper use guidelines for PUL in Japan. Preoperative patient status, postoperative progress at 1 and 3 months, and perioperative complications were evaluated. The surgical technique was changed twice, and the subgroup analysis and technique were evaluated.

Results

Of the 50 patients who underwent surgeries performed by a single surgeon, the median age and prostate volume were 71 years and 42.0 mL, respectively. Furthermore, the median operative time and number of implants used were 20 min and 5, respectively. No postoperative fever or severe hematuria requiring reoperation occurred. All patients were discharged from the hospital the day following the PUL, as scheduled. Postoperative International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life score, maximum flow rate, and postvoid residual volume at 1 and 3 months were significantly improved compared with the preoperative values. A significant improvement in maximum flow rate was observed in the subgroup analysis from 1 month postoperatively in the group with an anterior channel creation focus.

Conclusions

PUL is effective and safe in cases with prostate volumes of <100 mL. Lifting the bladder neck is important for opening an anterior prostatic urethral channel and improving urinary function during the early postoperative period.
How positive mental well‐being influences professional identity and the mediating mechanisms in Chinese nursing students
Authors: Jilili Ayisha , Weng Xue , Zhao Sheng Zhi , Wang Lin , Fang Qiong , Guo Ningyuan
Published: April 2024

Aim

To examine the association between positive mental well‐being and professional identity in nursing students. The mediating effects of resilience and nurse–patient relationship were explored.

Background

Professional identity of nursing students can influence their pursuit of a nursing career. Negative mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and high stress, are known risk factors for professional identity. Few studies have examined the association of professional identity with positive mental well‐being and underlying mechanisms.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of Chinese nursing students on clinical placement. The Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well‐being Scale, Professional Identity Scale, Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, Nurse–Patient Relationship Scale, and Patient Health Questionnaire were used, and demographic and study‐related characteristics were measured. Multivariable linear regression and mediation analyses analyzed the associations. We followed the STROBE reporting guidelines.

Results

Of 208 participants, the total scores of positive mental well‐being and professional identity were at a moderate level. Positive mental well‐being was associated with professional identity after adjusting for confounders including the main reason for choosing nursing and negative mental health. Resilience was a full mediator of the association between positive mental well‐being and professional identity, whereas nurse–patient relationship was a partial mediator.

Discussion and conclusion

Positive mental well‐being was associated with professional identity in Chinese nursing students on clinical placement, mediated through resilience and nurse–patient relationship. Positive mental well‐being can be a facilitator for the professional identity of nursing students, and resilience and nurse–patient relationship could be potential mechanisms for nurse professional development.

Implications for nursing and/or health policy

Nurse researchers, educators, and policymakers are informed to increase the awareness of positive mental well‐being and develop interventions targeting resilience and nurse–patient relationship for building a stable and satisfied nursing team.
Examining formation and alleviation of information security fatigue by using job demands–resources theory
Authors: Hsu Jack Shih‐Chieh , Hung Yu Wen , Hsieh Pei‐Jung , Chiu Chao‐Min
Published: April 2024

The implementation and reinforcement of information security policies (ISPs) can lead to information security fatigue (hereafter security fatigue), which can drive employees to engage in unwanted behaviours. Thus, managers must reduce the likelihood of security fatigue. Therefore, in the present study, we employed job demands–resources theory and hypothesized that security‐related demands would result in security fatigue. Furthermore, we identified resources that may alleviate such fatigue. The research model was tested with data collected from 386 employees of organisations with ISPs. The findings indicate that job and personal resources can reduce the occurrence of security fatigue and engagement in opportunistic security behaviours by enhancing engagement. In addition, the effect of security fatigue on opportunistic security behaviours can be suppressed through the implementation of behavioural evaluations. Our study contributes to the formulation of methods for relieving security fatigue and ameliorating its negative effects.
Combination of pure oxygen pretreatment and near‐freezing temperature storage inhibits browning, maintains antioxidant and physicochemical quality of fresh‐cut nectarines
Authors: Li Dandan , Li Lu , Liu Tao , Ding Xu , Du Jin , Zhao Ruxia , Li Xuejin , Chen Lan , Li Xihong , Jiang Yuqian
Published: April 2024

Fresh‐cut fruits were convenient for consumers but vulnerable to quality deterioration, including browning, softening, and volatile aroma loss. In this study, the whole nectarines were pretreated with 100% O2 (pure oxygen, PO) for 2 h and stored at near‐freezing temperature (NFT, −1.5 ± 0.1°C) for 9 days after cutting. We investigated the changes of samples in browning degree, enzyme activity, cell membrane permeability, antioxidant activity, and aroma components. Specifically, PO pretreatment increased the peroxidase (POD) and phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL) activities, which endows the whole nectarines with resistance to environmental stresses before fresh‐cut. NFT storage effectively inhibited the activity of the polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and the increase of the total phenolic content (TPC). Higher antioxidant levels and anti‐browning effects were observed in fresh‐cut nectarines treated with PO + NFT, which demonstrated by higher levels of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging capacity, ferricion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and enzyme activity ratios (ratio 1 and ratio 2). During the storage of 9 days, the firmness and membrane permeability were preserved, malondialdehyde (MDA) content was suppressed, which delayed the softening of nectarine tissue. Furthermore, soluble solids content (SSC) and titratable acid (TA) were also well preserved by PO + NFT, which maintained the physiological and metabolic qualities. Electronic nose tests revealed that PO + NFT postponed the volatile aroma deterioration. In conclusion, PO + NFT effectively maintains the storage quality of fresh‐cut nectarines.
Measuring behavioural disturbances exhibited by children and adolescents in post‐traumatic amnesia: Development of a scale
Authors: Shimmins Anita , Brookes Naomi , Epps Adrienne , Parry Louise , Lah Suncica
Published: April 2024

Behavioural disturbances are often observed, but (to our knowledge) not systematically assessed, in children who are in post‐traumatic amnesia (PTA) following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Therefore, we aimed to develop a prototype scale that measures the full range of behavioural disturbances exhibited by school‐aged children in PTA. Quantitative and qualitative feedback was collected via online surveys. First, experts (n = 7) evaluated the relevance and developmental appropriateness of 37 behavioural items, extracted from the scoping literature review. Second, clinicians (n = 20) evaluated the preliminary scale for its suitability (acceptability, feasibility and usability). Analyses included descriptive statistics and qualitative analyses. First, experts eliminated nine items, adjusted the wording of three retained items and categorised 18 of the remaining 28 items into one of eight categories. Ten items were not consistently categorised. All experts highlighted that the scale needed to be short and easy to administer. Hence, categorised items were bundled, arriving at an 18‐item preliminary scale. Second, clinicians deemed the preliminary scale highly suitable, easy to implement and addressing a gap in current clinical practice. The layout of the scale and wording of three items was modified according to qualitative feedback, arriving at an 18‐item prototype. To our knowledge, this is the first scale designed to assess the full range of behavioural disturbances in children in PTA. The scale has the potential to systematically assess behaviour and streamline documentation of behavioural recovery in this population, inform management and rehabilitation, track responses to interventions and facilitate discussion with affected families.
Evaluation of different screening tools for detection of malnutrition in hospitalised patients
Authors: Cortes Regina , Yañez Aina M. , Capitán‐Moyano Laura , Millán‐Pons Aina , Bennasar‐Veny Miquel
Published: April 2024

Aims and Objectives

To assess the prevalence of malnutrition in hospitalised adult patients, and to evaluate the accuracy of the most commonly used nutritional screening tools for identifying individuals at risk of malnutrition.

Methods

A prospective cross‐sectional study was conducted on a total of 248 hospitalised patients in internal medicine wards (mean age: 75.2 years; 39.5% females). Nutritional screening was performed within 48 h of admission using the following tools: Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST), Nutrition Risk Screening Tool (NRS‐2002), Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST), Short Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire (SNAQ), and Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form (MNA‐SF). The criteria of the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) were used as the gold standard for defining malnutrition. Patients were also evaluated using the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) and the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria. Accuracy was determined by examining sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values, and diagnostic agreement was determined by calculation of Cohen's kappa (κ). The study is reported as per the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines.

Results

The ESPEN criteria classified 20.2% of the hospitalised patients as malnourished. Overall, the MUST had the highest sensitivity (80.0%), specificity (74.7%) and positive predictive value (44.4%). For the subgroup of patients aged >65 years, the MNA‐SF had high sensitivity (94.4%) but low specificity (39.0%). Based on Cohen's κ, the SGA and GLIM criteria showed low agreement with the ESPEN criteria.

Conclusion

The MUST was the most accurate nutritional screening tool, through the MST is more easily applied in many clinical settings. A comprehensive assessment of malnutrition that considers muscle mass is crucial for the reliable diagnosis of malnutrition.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

The present findings underscore the importance of accurate assessment of the malnutrition status of hospitalised patients and the need for a reliable screening tool.

No patient or public contribution.
Broadband Internet and the Stock Market Investments of Individual Investors
Authors: HVIDE HANS K. , MELING TOM G. , MOGSTAD MAGNE , VESTAD OLA L.
Published: April 2024

We study the effects of broadband internet use on the investment decisions of individual investors. A public program in Norway provides plausibly exogenous variation in internet use. Our instrumental variables estimates show that internet use causes a substantial increase in stock market participation, driven primarily by increased fund ownership. Existing investors tilt their portfolios toward funds, thereby obtaining more diversified portfolios and higher Sharpe ratios, and do not increase their trading activity in stocks. Overall, access to high‐speed internet spurs a “democratization of finance,” with individuals making investment decisions that are more in line with the advice from portfolio theory.
Relationship between maternal mortality and ritodrine hydrochloride as a tocolytic agent in Japan
Authors: Nakamura Masamitsu , Sekizawa Akihiko , Hasegawa Junichi , Nakata Masahiko , Katsuragi Shinji , Tanaka Hiroaki , Murakoshi Takeshi , Kanayama Naohiro , Ishiwata Isamu , Ikeda Tomoaki ,   Maternal Death Exploratory Committee in Japan
Published: April 2024

Aim

In Japan, unlike Western countries, tocolytic agents are administered in long‐term protocols to treat threatened preterm labor. Evaluating the side effects of this practice is crucial. We examined whether ritodrine hydrochloride had been administered in cases of maternal death, aiming to investigate any relationship between ritodrine administration and maternal death.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used reports of maternal deaths from multiple institutions in Japan between 2010 and 2020. Data on the reported cases were retrospectively analyzed, and data on the route of administration, administered dose, and clinical findings, including causes of maternal death, were extracted. The amount of tocolytic agents was compared between maternal deaths with ritodrine administration and those without.

Results

A total of 390 maternal deaths were reported to the Maternal Death Exploratory Committee in Japan during the study period. Ritodrine hydrochloride was administered in 32 of these cases. The frequencies (n) and median doses (range) of oral or intravenous ritodrine hydrochloride were 34.4% (11) and 945 (5–2100) mg and 84.4% (27) and 4032 (50–18 680) mg, respectively. Frequencies of perinatal cardiomyopathy, cerebral hemorrhage, diabetic ketoacidosis, and pulmonary edema as causes of maternal death were significantly higher with ritodrine administration than without it.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a relationship between long‐term administration of ritodrine hydrochloride and an increased risk of maternal death due to perinatal cardiomyopathy, cerebral hemorrhage, diabetic ketoacidosis, and pulmonary edema. In cases where ritodrine should be administered to prevent preterm labor, careful management and monitoring of maternal symptoms are required.
Gestational diabetes mellitus is associated with greater incidence of dementia during long‐term post‐partum follow‐up
Authors: Zhang Yang , Gao Darui , Gao Ying , Li Jing , Li Chenglong , Pan Yang , Wang Yongqian , Zhang Junqing , Zheng Fanfan , Xie Wuxiang
Published: April 2024

Background

The impact of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on incident dementia is unknown. Our aim was to evaluate the relationship between GDM and all‐cause dementia and the mediating effects of chronic diseases on this relationship.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included women from the UK Biobank who were grouped based on GDM history. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were used to explore the associations between GDM and dementia. We further analysed the mediating effects of chronic diseases on this relationship and the interactions of covariates.

Results

A total of 1292 women with and 204,171 women without a history of GDM were included. During a median follow‐up period of 45 years after first birth, 2921 women were diagnosed with dementia. Women with a GDM history had a 67% increased risk of incident dementia (hazard ratio 1.67, 95% confidence interval: 1.03–2.69) compared with those without a GDM history. According to mediation analyses, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, chronic kidney disease and comorbidities (diagnosed with any two of the three diseases) explained 34.5%, 8.4%, 5.2% and 18.8% of the mediating effect on the relationship. Subgroup analyses revealed that physical activity modified the association between GDM history and dementia (p for interaction = 0.030). Among physically inactive women, GDM was significantly associated with incident dementia; however, this association was not observed among physically active women.

Conclusions

A history of GDM was associated with a greater risk of incident dementia. Type 2 diabetes partially mediated this relationship. Strategies for dementia prevention might be considered for women with a history of GDM.
Effect of different levels of single cell protein and probiotic microorganisms on performance, immunological responses, and intestinal histology in laying hens
Authors: Dehsahraee Rasoul Rashedi , Mahdavi Amir Hossein , Sedghi Mohammad , Saleh Hassan
Published: April 2024

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of single‐cell protein (SCP), as a valuable by‐product and substitute for soybean meal, and multistrain probiotics on the performance, blood biochemistry, intestinal histomorphology, ileal microbiota, and immune responses in laying hens. Leghorn laying hens were randomly assigned to nine experimental treatments with eight replicates of five birds each. Dietary treatments consisted of three levels of replacement of soybean meal with SCP (0.0%, 30%, and 60%) and three levels of probiotics (0.0, 50, 100 mg/kg) offered through 70 days of main recording. The result indicated that replacing 30% soybean meal with SCP in the diet significantly increased the eggshell weight, thickness, and strength; however, hens receiving 60% SCP replacement showed lower productive performance. During the second 35‐d trial, hens receiving at least 50 mg/kg probiotics produced higher eggshell weight, thickness, and strength than the control hens. Remarkable lower levels of serum cholesterol content were observed in the SCP and probiotic‐supplemented diets. The significant reduction in the ileal pH, Escherichia coli and Clostridium spp. enumerations and a remarkable increase in Lactobacillus count was observed after feeding incremental levels of probiotics. The highest villus height to crypt depth ratio, antibody titer against sheep red blood cells (in secondary response) and Newcastle disease vaccine, as well as egg production and egg mass, were found in the hens that received 30% SCP replacement in combination with 50 or 100 mg/kg probiotic (SCP × Probiotic). The present study concluded that feeding SCP, as a cheap protein alternative source, along with probiotics while reducing production costs can support productive performance via modulating the intestinal microbiomes and health indices and fortifying the immune system in laying hens.
Impact of dietary Moringa oleifera leaf supplementation on gut morphometry, behaviour and physiological parameters in growing male rabbits
Authors: Hadad Seham S. , Aziz Enas K. , Saad Adel Hassan , El‐Gendy Hanem , Abdel‐Megeid Nazema , Masoud Shimaa R. , Shukry Mustafa , Swelum Ayman A. , Al‐Ghadi Muath Q. , Alhimaidi Ahmad R. , Tellez‐Isaias Guillermo , Abd El‐Hack Mohamed E. , Abumandour Mohamed M. A.
Published: April 2024

Moringa oleifera (MO), a cultivated species of the Moringa, is known for its high concentration of essential nutrients that promote growth. To assess its impact on rabbits' gut morphometric, behavioural, and physiological parameters, a study was conducted using sixty growing male white New Zealand rabbits at 40 days old. The rabbits were divided into four groups and supplemented with dried MO leaves at varying levels (0%, 0.5%, 1% and 2% of body weight) for four weeks. The results revealed significant increases in organ weights, such as liver and intestinal length, and the height of intestinal villi and crypt depth in the large intestine. The muscular layer's and submucosa's thickness also increased in different parts of the intestine in rabbits fed with MO compared to the control group. No significant effect was observed on the caecum mucosa depth. Interestingly, no significant differences were found in body weight or weight gain between the Moringa supplementation groups and the control group. However, rabbits offered 0%, 0.5% and 1% MO spent more time feeding and resting than those given 2% MO. The grooming and sniffing percentage remained unaffected by Moringa supplementation. Regarding blood parameters, rabbits that received MO leaves in their diet showed improvements in red blood cell count, haemoglobin levels, packed cell volume, white blood cell count, neutrophil count, total protein, globulin, and A/G ratio. Moreover, there was a significant decrease in malondialdehyde levels and an increase in glutathione and high‐density lipoprotein levels, indicating an antioxidative effect. Overall, the study concluded that MO leaves supplementation in the rabbit diet positively influenced the rabbits' health by modulating the immune system, improving histological aspects of the intestine, liver, and spleen, and enhancing physiological parameters through its antioxidative properties.
Chaperones Hsc70 and Hsp70 play distinct roles in the replication of bocaparvovirus minute virus of canines
Authors: Guo Jianhui , Yan Yan , Sun Jinhan , Ji Kai , Hei Zhiping , Zeng Liang , Xu Huanzhou , Ren Xiang , Sun Yuning
Published: April 2024

Minute virus of canines (MVC) belongs to the genus Bocaparvovirus (formerly Bocavirus) within the Parvoviridae family and causes serious respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms in neonatal canines worldwide. A productive viral infection relies on the successful recruitment of host factors for various stages of the viral life cycle. However, little is known about the MVC‐host cell interactions. In this study, we identified that two cellular proteins (Hsc70 and Hsp70) interacted with NS1 and VP2 proteins of MVC, and both two domains of Hsc70/Hsp70 were mediated for their interactions. Functional studies revealed that Hsp70 was induced by MVC infection, knockdown of Hsc70 considerably suppressed MVC replication, whereas the replication was dramatically promoted by Hsp70 knockdown. It is interesting that low amounts of overexpressed Hsp70 enhanced viral protein expression and virus production, but high amounts of Hsp70 overexpression weakened them. Upon Hsp70 overexpressing, we observed that the ubiquitination of viral proteins changed with Hsp70 overexpression, and proteasome inhibitor (MG132) restored an accumulation of viral proteins. In addition, we verified that Hsp70 family inhibitors remarkably decreased MVC replication. Overall, we identified Hsc70 and Hsp70 as interactors of MVC NS1 and VP2 proteins and were involved in MVC replication, which may provide novel targets for anti‐MVC approach.
Freezing treatment under light conditions leads to a dramatic enhancement of freezing tolerance in cold‐acclimated Arabidopsis
Authors: Sugita Kenji , Takahashi Shunsuke , Uemura Matsuo , Kawamura Yukio
Published: April 2024

Overwintering plants survive subzero temperatures by cold acclimation (CA), wherein they acquire freezing tolerance through short‐term exposure to low temperatures above 0°C. The freezing tolerance of CA plants increases when they are subsequently exposed to mild subzero temperatures, a phenomenon known as second‐phase cold hardening (2PH). Here, we explored the molecular mechanism and physiological conditions of 2PH. The results show that, compared with supercooling, a freezing treatment during 2PH after CA enhanced the freezing tolerance of Arabidopsis. This required CA as a pretreatment, and was designated as second‐phase freezing acclimation (2PFA). Light increased the effect of 2PFA to enhance freezing tolerance after CA. C‐repeat binding factor and cold‐regulated genes were downregulated by light during the 2PFA treatment, a different transcription profile from that during CA. The freezing tolerance of 2PFA plants was decreased by the presence of the photosynthetic electron transfer inhibitor 3‐(3,4‐dichlorophenyl)‐1,1‐dimethylurea during the 2PFA treatment. Compared with wild‐type plants, phototropin1,2 and phyb mutants showed lower freezing tolerance after 2PFA treatment. These results show that exposure to freezing after CA increases freezing tolerance as a secondary process, and that freezing under light conditions further increases freezing tolerance via pathways involving photoreceptors and photosynthetic electron transfer.
Two B‐box proteins orchestrate vegetative and reproductive growth in summer chrysanthemum
Authors: Wang Qi , Wang Lijun , Cheng Hua , Wang Shuang , Li Jiayu , Zhang Deng , Zhou Lijie , Chen Sumei , Chen Fadi , Jiang Jiafu
Published: April 2024

Floral transition, the switch from vegetative to reproductive growth, is extremely important for the growth and development of flowering plants. In the summer chrysanthemum, CmBBX8, a member of the subgroup II B‐box (BBX) family, positively regulates the transition by physically interacting with CmERF3 to inhibit CmFTL1 expression. In this study, we show that CmBBX5, a B‐box subgroup I member comprising two B‐boxes and a CCT domain, interacts with CmBBX8. This interaction suppresses the recruitment of CmBBX8 to the CmFTL1 locus without affecting its transcriptional activation activity. CmBBX5 overexpression led to delayed flowering under both LD (long‐day) and SD (short‐day) conditions, while lines expressing the chimeric repressor gene‐silencing (CmBBX5‐SRDX) exhibited the opposite phenotype. Subsequent genetic evidence indicated that in regulating flowering, CmBBX5 is partially dependent on CmBBX8. Moreover, during the vegetative growth period, levels of CmBBX5 expression were found to exceed those of CmBBX8. Collectively, our findings indicate that both CmERF3 and CmBBX5 interact with CmBBX8 to dampen the regulation of CmFTL1 via distinct mechanisms, which contribute to preventing the premature flowering of summer chrysanthemum.
Large, ulcerated infantile hemangioma of the chest wall complicated by life‐threatening hemorrhage: Case report and literature review
Authors: Dong Elaine , Rodriguez Edgar D. , Levin Carla I. , Gardner Gregory C. , Metry Denise W.
Published: April 2024

While ulceration is one of the most common infantile hemangioma (IH) complications, severe bleeding is a rare consequence, with a paucity of patients reported. We report a 5‐month‐old girl with a very large, mixed, partial segmental IH of the upper chest wall who, despite medical intervention, developed severe ulceration and multiple episodes of life‐threatening bleeding that ultimately led to hemorrhagic shock. Experience in our patient and a review of six previous reports shows that severe bleeding is a risk when ulceration extends directly into an arterial feeding vessel that is often visible clinically. Other potential predictors for severe bleeding include large to very large IH size with extension of the tumor into underlying structures, segmental or partial segmental patterning, mixed and bulky morphology, and white discoloration as a sign of impending or worsening ulceration.
Comparative analysis of surface deformation monitoring in a mining area based on UAV‐lidar and UAV photogrammetry
Authors: Zhan Xilin , Zhang Xingzhong , Wang Xiao , Diao Xinpeng , Qi Lizhuan
Published: April 2024

Unmanned aerial vehicle light detection and ranging (UAV‐lidar) and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photogrammetry are currently commonly used surface monitoring technologies. Previous studies have used the two technologies interchangeably and ignored their correlation, or only compared them on a single product. However, there are few quantitative assessments of the differences between these two techniques in monitoring surface deformation and prediction of their application prospects. Therefore, the paper compared the differences between the digital elevation model (DEM) and subsidence basins obtained by the two techniques using Gaussian analysis. The results indicate that the surface DEMs obtained by both the techniques exhibit a high degree of similarity. The statistical analysis of the difference values in the z direction between the two DEMs follows a Gaussian distribution with a standard deviation of less than 0.36 m. When comparing the surface subsidence values monitored by the two techniques, it was found that UAV‐lidar was more sensitive to small‐scale deformation, with a difference range of 0.23–0.44 m compared to photogrammetry. The conclusion provides valuable information regarding the utilisation of multisource monitoring data.
Plant‐derived nanovesicles offer a promising avenue for anti‐aging interventions
Authors: Meng Yiming , Sun Jing , Yu Tao , Piao Haozhe
Published: April 2024

Over the past few years, the study of plant‐derived nanovesicles (PDNVs) has emerged as a hot topic of discussion and research in the scientific community. This remarkable interest stems from their potential role in facilitating intercellular communication and their unique ability to deliver biologically active components, including proteins, lipids, and miRNAs, to recipient cells. This fascinating ability to act as a molecular courier has opened up an entirely new dimension in our understanding of plant biology. The field of research focusing on the potential applications of PDNVs is still in its nascent stages. However, it has already started gaining traction due to the growing interest in its possible use in various branches of biotechnology and medicine. Their unique properties and versatile applications offer promising future research and development prospects in these fields. Despite the significant progress in our understanding, many unanswered questions and mysteries surround the mechanisms by which PDNVs function and their potential applications. There is a dire need for further extensive research to elucidate these mechanisms and explore the full potential of these fascinating vesicles. As the technology at our disposal advances and our understanding of PDNVs deepens, it is beyond doubt that PDNVs will continue to be a subject of intense research in anti‐aging therapeutics. This comprehensive review is designed to delve into the fascinating and multifaceted world of PDNV‐based research, particularly focusing on how these nanovesicles can be applied to anti‐aging therapeutics.
The longitudinal relationship between levels of leisure‐time physical activity and positive and negative affect among older foreign‐born adults with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Lee Jungjoo , Kim Junhyoung , Woo Bomi , Pesola Arto , Tikkanen Olli
Published: April 2024

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the longitudinal impact of different levels of leisure‐time physical activity (LTPA) participation on positive and negative affect among older foreign‐born adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods

This study used 2012 to 2020 data from the Health and Retirement Study data (n = 1206) that was analyzed using repeated measured multivariate analysis of covariance.

Results

The high‐level participation LTPA group reported higher positive affect and lower negative affect than the mid and low‐level participation groups. The mid‐level LTPA group also reported higher positive and lower negative affect than the low‐level LTPA group.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that high levels of LTPA participation contribute to an increase in positive affect and a reduction of negative affect among older foreign‐born adults with MCI. The findings of this study will help fill the gap in research on the longitudinal relationship between levels of LTPA participation and positive and negative affect among older foreign‐born adults.
Spaces of afterlife: A Lefebvrian lens on Singaporean Chinese remembrance practices
Authors: Chew Jing Qi Selina
Published: April 2024

Scholars have extensively studied the spiritual and cultural interpretations of the afterlife. This paper builds on these works by exploring how the afterlife can be discussed as a ‘place’ meriting geographical discussion. To do so, I consider how the afterlife is spatialized drawing on the ‘trialetic’ interactions described in Henri Lefebvre's work. This is done in the context of Singaporean Chinese beliefs that place emphasis on ritualistic remembrance. Firstly, the emotive‐affective aspects of remembrance imbued into material practices produce spaces of representation that prolong the deceased's ‘presence’. At the same time, the Singapore state exercises significant regulation of these practices. While common understandings of the afterlife relate to spirits and culture, the analysis charts how in Singapore's case, the spatialization of the afterlife becomes a contested politicized process. Conceptualizations of the afterlife are not statically enshrined in cultural beliefs but evolve with changing times. This paper thus elaborates Lefebvre's spatial triad to examine networks of prescription, alteration, and negotiation, whereby the afterlife is a dynamically produced space charged with power relations among various actors.
Parameter‐based transfer learning for severity classification of atopic dermatitis using hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Kim Eun Bin , Baek Yoo Sang , Lee Onseok
Published: April 2024

Background/purpose

Because atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes structural changes, there is a growing need for noninvasive research methods to evaluate this condition. Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) captures skin structure features by exploiting light wavelength variations in penetration depth. In this study, parameter‐based transfer learning was deployed to classify the severity of AD using HSI. Therefore, we aimed to obtain an optimal combination of classification results from the four models after constructing different source‐ and target‐domain datasets.

Methods

We designated psoriasis, skin cancer, eczema, and AD datasets as the source datasets, and the set of images acquired via hyperspectral camera as the target dataset for wavelength‐specific AD classification. We compared the severity classification performances of 96 combinations of sources, models, and targets.

Results

The highest classification performance of 83% was achieved when ResNet50 was trained on the augmented psoriasis dataset as the source, with the resulting parameters used to train the model on the target Near‐infrared radiation (NIR) dataset. The second highest classification accuracy of 81% was achieved when ResNet50 was trained on the unaugmented psoriasis dataset as the source, with the resulting parameters used to train the model on the target R dataset. ResNet50 demonstrated potential as a generalized model for both the source and target data, also confirming that the psoriasis dataset is an effective training resource.

Conclusion

The present study not only demonstrates the feasibility of the severity classification of AD based on hyperspectral images, but also showcases combinations and research scalability for domain exploration.
Extracellular Vesicles: Translational Agenda Questions for Three Protozoan Parasites
Authors: Tandoh Kwesi Z. , Ibarra‐Meneses Ana Victoria , Langlais David , Olivier Martin , Torrecilhas Ana Claudia , Fernandez‐Prada Christopher , Regev‐Rudzki Neta , Duah‐Quashie Nancy O.
Published: April 2024

The protozoan parasites Plasmodium falciparum, Leishmania spp. and Trypanosoma cruzi continue to exert a significant toll on the disease landscape of the human population in sub‐Saharan Africa and Latin America. Control measures have helped reduce the burden of their respective diseases—malaria, leishmaniasis and Chagas disease—in endemic regions. However, the need for new drugs, innovative vaccination strategies and molecular markers of disease severity and outcomes has emerged because of developing antimicrobial drug resistance, comparatively inadequate or absent vaccines, and a lack of trustworthy markers of morbid outcomes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been widely reported to play a role in the biology and pathogenicity of P. falciparum, Leishmania spp. and T. cruzi ever since they were discovered. EVs are secreted by a yet to be fully understood mechanism in protozoans into the extracellular milieu and carry a cargo of diverse molecules that reflect the originator cell's metabolic state. Although our understanding of the biogenesis and function of EVs continues to deepen, the question of how EVs in P. falciparum, Leishmania spp. and T. cruzi can serve as targets for a translational agenda into clinical and public health interventions is yet to be fully explored. Here, as a consortium of protozoan researchers, we outline a plan for future researchers and pose three questions to direct an EV's translational agenda in P. falciparum, Leishmania spp. and T. cruzi. We opine that in the long term, executing this blueprint will help bridge the current unmet needs of these medically important protozoan diseases in sub‐Saharan Africa and Latin America.