bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A genome‐wide association study of hand eczema identifies locus 20q13.33 and reveals genetic overlap with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Rosenberg Fieke M. , van der Most Peter J. , Loman Laura , Kamali Zoha , Dittmar Daan , Snieder Harold , Schuttelaar Marie L. A.
Published: June 2024

Background

Twin studies revealed that genetic effects play a role in hand eczema (HE), but the responsible genetic factors are unknown.

Objectives

To identify and characterise genetic loci associated with HE and to provide insight into the genetic overlap between HE and atopic dermatitis (AD).

Methods

We used questionnaire‐derived and genotype data from the European population‐based Lifelines cohort and biobank. We performed a discovery genome‐wide association study (GWAS) of HE (2879 cases and 16 249 controls) and of AD (1706 cases and 17 190 controls). We replicated our findings in an independent Lifelines sample for HE (1188 cases and 6431 controls) and AD (757 cases and 6747 controls). We conducted several post‐GWAS analyses and performed genetic correlation analyses between our HE results and independent AD data.

Results

The two‐step GWAS of HE, regardless of adjusting for AD, identified one independent locus 20q13.33, likely driven by a number of causal single‐nucleotide polymorphisms. For the AD GWAS, we replicated a known stop‐gained rs61816761 at locus 1q21.3 (FLG, FLGAS1). We found a strong genetic correlation (p < 0.01) between HE and AD (rg = 0.65), regardless of adjusting for AD (rg = 0.63).

Conclusions

Locus 20q13.33 is associated with HE, and there is a large genetic overlap between HE and AD.
Role of Metacognitive Confidence Judgments in Curiosity: Different Effects of Confidence on Curiosity Across Epistemic and Perceptual Domains
Authors: Sakaki Michiko , Ten Alexandr , Stone Hannah , Murayama Kou
Published: June 2024

Previous research suggests that curiosity is sometimes induced by novel information one has no relevant knowledge about, but it is sometimes induced by new information about something that one is familiar with and has prior knowledge about. However, the conditions under which novelty or familiarity triggers curiosity remain unclear. Using metacognitive confidence judgments as a proxy to quantify the amount of knowledge, this study evaluates the relationship between the amount of relevant knowledge and curiosity. We reviewed previous studies on the relationship between subjective curiosity and confidence and reanalyzed existing large‐sample data. The findings indicate that the relationship between curiosity and confidence differs depending on the nature of the stimuli: epistemic versus perceptual. Regarding perceptual stimuli, curiosity is stronger when individuals have lower confidence levels. By contrast, for epistemic stimuli, curiosity is stronger when individuals have higher confidence levels. These results suggest that curiosity triggered by perceptual stimuli is based on perceived novelty, whereas that triggered by epistemic stimuli is based on familiarity with prior knowledge.
Flexible Conceptual Representations
Authors: Truman Alyssa , Kutas Marta
Published: June 2024

A view that has been gaining prevalence over the past decade is that the human conceptual system is malleable, dynamic, context‐dependent, and task‐dependent, that is, flexible. Within the flexible conceptual representation framework, conceptual representations are constructed ad hoc, forming a different, idiosyncratic instantiation upon each occurrence. In this review, we scrutinize the neurocognitive literature to better understand the nature of this flexibility. First, we identify some key characteristics of these representations. Next, we consider how these flexible representations are constructed by addressing some of the open questions in this framework: We review the age‐old question of how to reconcile flexibility with the apparent need for shareable stable definitions to anchor meaning and come to mutual understanding, as well as some newer questions we find critical, namely, the nature of relations among flexible representations, the role of feature saliency in activation, and the viability of all‐or‐none feature activations. We suggest replacing the debate about the existence of a definitional stable core that is obligatorily activated with a question of the degree and probability of activation of the information constituting a conceptual representation. We rely on published works to suggest that (1) prior featural salience matters, (2) feature activation may be graded, and (3) Bayesian updating of prior information according to current demands offers a viable account of how flexible representations are constructed. This proposal provides a theoretical mechanism for incorporating a changing momentary context into a constructed representation, while still preserving some of the concept's constituent meaning.
Imbalanced optimal feedback motor control system in spinocerebellar ataxia type 3
Authors: Li Leinian , Chen Hui , Deng LiHua , Huang YongHua , Zhang YuHan , Luo YueYuan , Ou PeiLing , Shi LinFeng , Dai LiMeng , Chen Wei , Chen HuaFu , Wang Jian , Liu Chen
Published: June 2024

Background and purpose

Human motor planning and control depend highly on optimal feedback control systems, such as the neocortex–cerebellum circuit. Here, diffusion tensor imaging was used to verify the disruption of the neocortex–cerebellum circuit in spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3), and the circuit's disruption correlation with SCA3 motor dysfunction was investigated.

Methods

This study included 45 patients with familial SCA3, aged 17–67 years, and 49 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls, aged 21–64 years. Tract‐based spatial statistics and probabilistic tractography was conducted using magnetic resonance images of the patients and controls. The correlation between the local probability of probabilistic tractography traced from the cerebellum and clinical symptoms measured using specified symptom scales was also calculated.

Results

The cerebellum‐originated probabilistic tractography analysis showed that structural connectivity, mainly in the subcortical cerebellar–thalamo–cortical tract, was significantly reduced and the cortico–ponto–cerebellar tract was significantly stronger in the SCA3 group than in the control group. The enhanced tract was extended to the right lateral parietal region and the right primary motor cortex. The enhanced neocortex–cerebellum connections were highly associated with disease progression, including duration and symptomatic deterioration. Tractography probabilities from the cerebellar to parietal and sensorimotor areas were significantly negatively correlated with motor abilities in patients with SCA3.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this study is the first to reveal that disrupting the neocortex–cerebellum loop can cause SCA3‐induced motor dysfunctions. The specific interaction between the cerebellar–thalamo–cortical and cortico–ponto–cerebellar pathways in patients with SCA3 and its relationship with ataxia symptoms provides a new direction for future research.
The role of Nα‐terminal acetylation in protein conformation
Authors: Calis Sam , Gevaert Kris
Published: June 2024

Especially in higher eukaryotes, the N termini of proteins are subject to enzymatic modifications, with the acetylation of the alpha‐amino group of nascent polypeptides being a prominent one. In recent years, the specificities and substrates of the enzymes responsible for this modification, the Nα‐terminal acetyltransferases, have been mapped in several proteomic studies. Aberrant expression of, and mutations in these enzymes were found to be associated with several human diseases, explaining the growing interest in protein Nα‐terminal acetylation. With some enzymes, such as the Nα‐terminal acetyltransferase A complex having thousands of possible substrates, researchers are now trying to decipher the functional outcome of Nα‐terminal protein acetylation. In this review, we zoom in on one possible functional consequence of Nα‐terminal protein acetylation; its effect on protein folding. Using selected examples of proteins associated with human diseases such as alpha‐synuclein and huntingtin, here, we discuss the sometimes contradictory findings of the effects of Nα‐terminal protein acetylation on protein (mis)folding and aggregation.
Bumble bee responses to climate and landscapes: Investigating habitat associations and species assemblages across geographic regions in the United States of America
Authors: Christman Morgan E. , Spears Lori R. , Burchfield Emily K. , Pearse William D. , Strange James P. , Ramirez Ricardo A.
Published: June 2024

Bumble bees are integral pollinators of native and cultivated plant communities, but species are undergoing significant changes in range and abundance on a global scale. Climate change and land cover alteration are key drivers in pollinator declines; however, limited research has evaluated the cumulative effects of these factors on bumble bee assemblages. This study tests bumble bee assemblage (calculated as richness and abundance) responses to climate and land use by modeling species‐specific habitat requirements, and assemblage‐level responses across geographic regions. We integrated species richness, abundance, and distribution data for 18 bumble bee species with site‐specific bioclimatic, landscape composition, and landscape configuration data to evaluate the effects of multiple environmental stressors on bumble bee assemblages throughout 433 agricultural fields in Florida, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, South Carolina, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia from 2018 to 2020. Distinct east versus west groupings emerged when evaluating species‐specific habitat associations, prompting a detailed evaluation of bumble bee assemblages by geographic region. Maximum temperature of warmest month and precipitation of driest month had a positive impact on bumble bee assemblages in the Corn Belt/Appalachian/northeast, southeast, and northern plains regions, but a negative impact on the mountain region. Further, forest land cover surrounding agricultural fields was highlighted as supporting more rich and abundant bumble bee assemblages. Overall, climate and land use combine to drive bumble bee assemblages, but how those processes operate is idiosyncratic and spatially contingent across regions. From these findings, we suggested regionally specific management practices to best support rich and abundant bumble bee assemblages in agroecosystems. Results from this study contribute to a better understanding of climate and landscape factors affecting bumble bees and their habitats throughout the United States.
Nonneoplastic and neoplastic sclerosing lesions of the breast
Authors: Turashvili Gulisa
Published: June 2024

Sclerosing lesions of the breast encompass a spectrum of benign and malignant entities and often pose a diagnostic challenge. Awareness of key morphologic features and pitfalls in the assessment of morphology and immunophenotype is essential to avoid over‐ or underdiagnosis and ensure optimal clinical management. This review summarizes nonneoplastic sclerosing lesions such as radial scar/complex sclerosing lesion, sclerosing adenosis, sclerosing intraductal papilloma, sclerosing variants of ductal adenoma and nipple adenoma, and fibroadenoma with extensive sclerosis, including their clinical presentation, characteristic morphology, differential diagnostic considerations, appropriate immunohistochemical work‐up, when needed, and the clinical significance. In addition, atypical or neoplastic entities (such as atypical ductal hyperplasia, ductal carcinoma in situ, low‐grade adenosquamous carcinoma, and fibromatosis‐like metaplastic carcinoma) that can involve these sclerosing lesions are also briefly discussed.
Coping as a mediator of the relationship between kinesiophobia and illness perception in atrial fibrillation patients: A cross‐sectional mediation analysis
Authors: Chen Limei , Li Husheng , Gou Xinyu , Dong Hui , Yang Shenglan , Dong Fengwei , Wu Jing
Published: June 2024

Aim(s)

To explore the mediating role of coping styles in the association between illness perception and kinesiophobia in atrial fibrillation patients.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

Between June 2021 and November 2022, data were collected using a self‐designed demographic questionnaire, the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ), Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia Heart (TSK‐SV Heart) and Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire (MCMQ). The sample comprised 474 atrial fibrillation patients recruited from three hospitals in China. To analyse the data, multiple linear regression models with forced entry were employed, and the mediation Mode 4 of the PROCESS macro in SPSS was implemented.

Results

In total, 57.8% of patients exhibited a high level of kinesiophobia. Regression analyses uncovered associations between kinesiophobia and various demographic and disease characteristics, as well as assessments of both illness perception and coping styles. Path analysis results indicated that illness perception reduced kinesiophobia through the mediating effect of confrontation, while avoidance and resignation intensified kinesiophobia. The mediating factor of coping styles explained a significant 53% of the overall effect.

Conclusions

Coping styles mediate the relationship between illness perception and kinesiophobia, resulting in a shift in coping styles as illness perception decreases and ultimately leading to reduced kinesiophobia.

Impact

Coping styles play a mediating role in the relationship between kinesiophobia and illness perception. The results suggest healthcare providers in identifying high‐risk individuals and tailoring interventions to effectively break the vicious cycle of kinesiophobia. Therefore, screening and intervening with patients showcasing heightened illness perception aims to promote a transformation in coping styles, subsequently reducing atrial fibrillation kinesiophobia.

Reporting Method

The results of the observations were reported in adherence to the STROBE criteria.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient and public involvement.
Desired dementia care towards end of life: Development and experiences of implementing a new approach to improve person‐centred dementia care
Authors: Biesmans Jesper M. A. , Bolt Sascha R. , Janssen Daisy J. A. , Wintjens Toon , Khemai Chandni , Schols Jos M. G. A. , Van Der Steen Jenny T. , Zwakhalen Sandra M. G. , Meijers Judith M. M.
Published: June 2024

Aims

To describe the co‐creation of the ‘Desired Dementia Care Towards End of Life’ (DEDICATED) approach to improve person‐centred palliative care for individuals with dementia and to describe the experiences of healthcare professionals during the approach's implementation.

Methods

A needs assessment, comprising both qualitative and quantitative studies, informed palliative care needs of healthcare professionals, family caregivers and individuals with dementia. The approach was co‐created with healthcare and education professionals, guided by the findings. Then, healthcare professionals were trained to implement the approach in their organizations. From April to June 2022, semi‐structured interviews with actively engaged professionals were analysed using Conventional Content Analysis.

Results

The needs assessment yielded six key themes: (1) raising palliative care awareness, (2) familiarization with a person with dementia, (3) communication about future care preferences, (4) managing pain and responsive behaviour, (5) enhancing interprofessional collaboration in advance care planning and (6) improving interprofessional collaboration during transitions to nursing homes. Interviews with 17 healthcare professionals revealed that active involvement in co‐creating or providing feedback facilitated implementation. Overall, the DEDICATED approach was perceived as a valuable toolkit for optimizing palliative care for people with dementia and their loved ones.

Conclusion

Co‐creating the DEDICATED approach with healthcare professionals facilitated implementation in daily practice. The approach was considered helpful in enhancing person‐centred palliative dementia care.

Impact Statement

This study underscores the importance of active involvement of healthcare professionals in the research and development of new interventions or tools for palliative care, which can influence the successful implementation, dissemination and sustained usage of the developed tools.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

The developed approach can improve person‐centred palliative care for individuals with dementia, ultimately improving their quality of life and that of their loved ones.

Reporting Method

This study used the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research.

Patient of Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
ASHA‐led community‐managed intervention programme to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with pregnancy hypertension: A study protocol
Authors: Karkada Sushmitha , Noronha Judith , Lewis Mitchelle , Ullal Chandini
Published: June 2024

Aim

The objective is to use the available technology in conjunction with the peripheral health workers to identify the early warning signs of pregnancy‐induced hypertension (PIH), provide appropriate referral services and closely monitor the patient thereafter with the aim of improving the prognosis of the condition.

Study Design

Quasi‐experimental design.

Method

The research will be carried out in Udupi District Karnataka, India. The study will involve 250 pregnant women in total as well as 50 ASHA workers. All the participants will undergo a PIH knowledge assessment, which will be followed by a PIH risk assessment for expectant mothers. There will be an implementation of the community‐managed intervention programme (CMIP). The creation of a mobile application, ongoing prenatal follow‐up and training for ASHAs on mobile app usage are all part of the CMIP. The results for mothers and newborns will be monitored and to learn more about the efficacy of CMIP and the difficulties ASHA workers and expectant mothers encounter in identifying the early warning signals of PIH a focused group discussion will be held.

Discussion

A number of research on pregnancy‐induced hypertension have demonstrated the necessity for community‐based treatments to be developed in order to improve the outcomes for expectant mothers and newborns. These programmes assist in managing hypertension throughout pregnancy. Conversely, ASHA employees have had a favourable influence on community‐level health outcome management. Currently, technology is being used extensively in healthcare and is receiving favourable reception. Thus, in an effort to improve maternal and newborn outcomes, this study attempts to incorporate mobile technologies in addition to ASHA workers and pregnant women.

Impact

If the CMIP proves to be beneficial, it might be implemented nationwide, particularly in isolated regions, to monitor expectant mothers and avoid PIH‐related concerns.
Larvicidal activity of six Moroccan Artemisia essential oils and a correlation study of their major components against Culex pipiens
Authors: Alami Abdellatif , Lalami Abdelhakim El Ouali , Annemer Saoussan , El‐Akhal Fouad , Ez‐zoubi Amine , El Hallabi Meriem , Ez zoubi Yassine , Farah Abdellah
Published: June 2024

The present study was carried out for the first time in Morocco to valorise plant species of the Artemisia genus. Its aim was to evaluate the larvicidal activity of essential oils from six Artemisia plants (A. herba alba, A. absinthium, A. campestris L., A. negrei, A. pontica, and A. arborescens) against Culex pipiens mosquitoes, which are recognised as potential vectors of West Nile virus. Bioinsecticides derived from EOs have shown promise as effective mosquito control agents. The EOs were analysed using GC–MS and GC‐FID and were obtained by hydrodistillation from the aerial parts of the plants. Besides, the experiment was carried out according to the standard WHO protocol. Thujone and camphor were identified as the predominant compounds in all six Artemisia plants. A. herba alba demonstrated the highest larvicidal activity with LC50 and LC90 values of 4.85 and 15.39 μg/mL, respectively. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) were employed to explore the correlation between major EO compounds and larvicidal efficacy. The results suggest that these findings could pave the way for the development of tailored biocides that specifically target important disease vectors.
Replacement of fishmeal with a microbial single‐cell protein induced enteropathy and poor growth outcomes in barramundi (Lates calcarifer) fry
Authors: Samsing Francisca , Sullivan Roisin , Truong Ha , Rombenso Artur , Sangster Cheryl R. , Bannister Jo , Longshaw Matt , Becker Joy A.
Published: June 2024

Fish meal (FM) replacement is essential for the sustainable expansion of aquaculture. This study focussed on the feasibility of replacing FM with a single‐cell protein (SCP) derived from methanotrophic bacteria (Methylococcus capsulatus, Bath) in barramundi fry (Lates calcarifer). Three isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets were formulated with 0%, 6.4% and 12.9% inclusion of the SCP, replacing FM by 0%, 25% and 50%. Barramundi fry (initial body weight 2.5 ± 0.1 g) were fed experimental diets for 21 days to assess growth performance, gut microbiome composition and gut histopathology. Our findings revealed that both levels of SCP inclusion induced detrimental effects in barramundi fry, including impaired growth and reduced survival compared with the control group (66.7% and 71.7% survival in diets replacing FM with SCP by 25% and 50%, respectively; p < .05). Both dietary treatments presented mild necrotizing enteritis with subepithelial oedema and accumulation of PAS positive, diastase resistant droplets within hepatocytes (ceroid hepatopathy) and pancreatic atrophy. Microbiome analysis revealed a marked shift in the gut microbial community with the expansion of potential opportunistic bacteria in the genus Aeromonas. Reduced overall performance in the highest inclusion level (50% SCP) was primarily associated with reduced feed intake, likely related to palatability issues, albeit pathological changes observed in gut and liver may also play a role. Our study highlights the importance of meticulous optimization of SCP inclusion levels in aquafeed formulations, and the need for species and life‐stage specific assessments to ensure the health and welfare of fish in sustainable aquaculture practices.
A prospective observational study comparing rates of medical instability between adolescents with typical and atypical anorexia nervosa
Authors: Brennan Cliona , Cini Erica , Illingworth Sarah , Chapman Simon , Simic Mima , Nicholls Dasha , Chapman Victoria , Simms Conor , Hayes Ellen , Fuller Sarah , Orpwood Jade , Tweedy Nicola , Baksh Tahmida , Astaire Emma , Bhakta Dee , Saglio Eloise , Stevenson Annie , Buchbinder Melissa
Published: June 2024

Background

Recognition of atypical anorexia nervosa (AAN) has challenged underweight as a defining factor of illness severity in anorexia nervosa (AN). The present study aimed to compare rates of medical instability in adolescents with underweight (AN) and non‐underweight (AAN) anorexia nervosa.

Methods

The study examined assessment data from specialist eating disorder services in the UK between January and December 2022. Participants (n = 205) aged 11–18 years were recruited across eight eating disorder clinics and diagnosed with AN (n = 113) or AAN (n = 92) after clinical assessment. Parameters associated with risk of medical instability were compared between AN and AAN groups, using t tests and regression analysis.

Results

Rates of bradycardia and hypotension did not differ significantly between AN and AAN groups (p = 0.239 and p = 0.289). Although white blood cell counts were lower in the AN group, rates of leukopaenia could not be statistically compared as a result of there being too few counts in at least one group. No incidences of hypophosphataemia were found in the sample. A significant regression equation was found for percentage median body mass index, but not rate of weight loss, as a predictor of blood pressure, serum phosphorous and magnesium.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that medical instability occurs across a range of body weights in young people with AN and AAN. Although certain parameters of risk such as blood pressure, serum phosphorous and magnesium may be worsened at lower weight, both AN and AAN are serious mental health conditions that can lead to medical instability.
Chronic ecologically relevant stress effects on reverse‐translated touchscreen assays of reward responsivity and attentional processes in male rats: Implications for depression
Authors: Gonzalez Paloma Martinez , Jenkins Amaya R. , LaMalfa Kayleigh S. , Kangas Brian D.
Published: June 2024

Stagnation in the development of novel therapeutic strategies for treatment‐resistant depression has encouraged continued interest in improving preclinical methods. One tactic prioritizes the reverse translation of behavioral tasks developed to objectively quantify depressive phenotypes in patient populations for their use in laboratory animals via touchscreen technology. After cross‐species concordance in task outcomes under healthy conditions is confirmed, construct validity can be further enhanced by identifying environmental stressors that reliably produce deficits in task performance that resemble those in depressive participants. The present studies characterized in male rats the ability of two chronic ecologically relevant stressors, inescapable ice water or isolated restraint, to produce depressive‐like behavioral phenotypes in the Probabilistic Reward Task (PRT) and Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT). These tasks previously have been reverse‐translated using touchscreen technology for rodents and nonhuman primates to objectively quantify, respectively, reward responsivity (anhedonia) and attentional processes (impaired cognitive function), each of which are core features of major depressive disorder. In the PRT, both inescapable ice water and isolated restraint produced persistent anhedonic phenotypes compared to non‐stressed control performance (i.e., significantly blunted response bias for the richly rewarded stimulus). In the PVT, both chronic stressors impaired attentional processing, revealed by increases in titrated reaction times; however, these deficits largely subsided by the end of the chronic condition. Taken together, these findings confirm the ability of reverse‐translated touchscreen tasks to effectively generate behavioral phenotypes that exhibit expected deficits in performance outcomes following exposure to chronic ecologically relevant stress. In turn, this approach is well positioned to appraise the ability of candidate therapeutics to attenuate or reverse such behavioral deficits and, thereby, contribute to preclinical medications development for treatment‐resistant depression.

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Effects of applying high‐pass filtering in pelvimetry with Martius images
Authors: Suzuki Nobuaki , Kumazawa Seiji , Ono Yohei
Published: June 2024

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate whether the results of pelvimetry using original radiographic Martius images and the same images with high‐pass filtering applied (“edge images”) would be consistent.

Methods

A total of 30 primagravidas were included in this study. Three obstetricians independently measured the anteroposterior and transverse diameters of the pelvic inlet in the original and the edge images, recording the x‐ and y‐coordinates of the four endpoints. A Wilcoxon signed rank sum test was performed on the coordinate data to evaluate differences between the original and edge images.

Results

In the analysis of all coordinate data, statistically significant differences were found in both x‐ and y‐coordinates of the sacral promontory point (SPP). In the y‐coordinate of the SPP, a statistically significant difference was found in 9 of 30 pairs of images, and in all 9 the anteroposterior diameter was shorter in the edge images compared to the original images due to the more caudal placement of the SPP.

Conclusions

The coordinates of the SPP on original radiographs and their edge images were not consistent in pelvimetry using Martius images. Our results suggest that improved image contrast will allow obstetricians to better assess pelvic narrowing and cephalopelvic disproportion and even reduce radiographic dose, thereby reducing risks for pregnant women and their fetuses.
Understanding perceptions about the health effects of night working and the barriers and enablers to taking part in nutritional research: A qualitative study among night workers in England
Authors: Fitzhugh Charlotte , Gibson Rachel
Published: June 2024

Working at night is associated with adverse cardiometabolic health outcomes. However, there are a lack of nutritional intervention studies conducted amongst night workers, subsequently contributing to a lack of evidence‐based guidelines for night workers. The aim of The Eating on the Night Shift study was to understand how night shift workers view working at night in relation to nutritional health and wellbeing, the barriers and enablers to participate in research and what kind of guidance would be useful to them. Semi‐structured qualitative interviews were conducted with a convenience sample (n = 18) of night workers based in England. The interview covered experiences of working night shifts, perceptions about night work and their health, and perceptions of and likely engagement with nutritional research. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were coded using an inductive thematic analysis approach. Of the final sample 13 were female (72%), 39% worked a rotating shift pattern and 78% had worked night shifts for 1 year or more. Four overarching themes were identified: (1) the consequences of night work on health and wellbeing, (2) eating at night means a less healthy diet, (3) working at night has wider knock‐on effects on aspects of lifestyle and wellbeing and (4) nutritional research is perceived as important, but there are barriers to participation. Night workers are aware that working at night can negatively impact their diet as well as their health. Nutritional researchers need to engage with night workers when considering intervention design and implementation as well as in the development of any resultant evidence‐based guidance to ensure its relevance.
Porphyromonas gingivalis LPS‐stimulated BMSC‐derived exosome promotes osteoclastogenesis via miR‐151‐3p/PAFAH1B1
Authors: Dong Jia‐chen , Liao Yue , Zhou Wei , Sun Meng‐jun , Zhang Huan‐yu , Li Yan , Song Zhong‐chen
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Porphyromonas gingivalis‐LPS regulated bone metabolism by triggering dysfunction of osteoblasts directly, and affecting activity of osteoclasts through intracellular communication. Exosome, as the mediator of intercellular communication, was important vesicle to regulate osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis. This research was designed for investigating the mechanism of BMSCs‐EXO in modulating osteoclastic activity under the P. gingivalis‐LPS.

Materials and methods

The cytotoxicity and osteogenic effects of P. gingivalis‐LPS on BMSCs was evaluated, and then osteoclastic activity of RAW264.7 co‐cultured with exosomes was detected. Besides, Affymetrix miRNA array and luciferase reporter assay were used to identify the target exosomal miRNA signal pathway.

Results

BMSCs' osteogenic differentiation and proliferation were decreased under 1 and 10 μg/mL P. gingivalis‐LPS. Osteoclastic‐related genes and proteins levels were promoted by P. gingivalis‐LPS‐stimulated BMSCs‐EXO. Based on the miRNA microarray analysis, exosomal miR‐151‐3p was lessened in BMExo‐LPS group, which facilitated osteoclastic differentiation through miR‐151‐3p/PAFAH1B1.

Conclusions

Porphyromonas gingivalis‐LPS could regulated bone metabolism by inhibiting proliferation and osteogenesis of BMSCs directly. Also, P. gingivalis‐LPS‐stimulated BMSCs‐EXO promoted osteoclastogenesis via activating miR‐151‐3p/PAFAH1B1 signal pathway.
Evaluation of Dutch disease effect on oil‐exporting countries: An empirical estimation
Authors: Ashour Majidah Mutyi , Yong Chen Chen , Cheong Kee Cheok
Published: June 2024

The motive of the study is to examine real effective exchange rates (REER) for Dutch disease effect (DDE) and evaluate the favourite exchange rate regime (ERR) for oil exporters, besides considering the time effect and development stages. This study included yearly data from 2001 to 2010 for 51 oil‐exporting nations. For empirical estimation, this study employed the dynamic panel threshold model. The study deduced that a nonlinear relationship in net oil‐exporting countries. The findings revealed that oil‐exporting countries experiencing a reduction in non‐oil exports if the real exchange rate (RER) exceeds than 3% (from the previous year), validating the Dutch disease phenomenon in oil‐exporting countries. Moreover, exposure to this threat increases with a fixed ERR, developing countries and early periods of exporting oil. Specifically, the results of the study contribute to empirical knowledge in economic sciences and provide useful insights into political implications and strategic planning for policymakers in oil‐exporting countries.
Distinct metabolites affect the phloem fungal communities in ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) native and nonnative to the highly invasive emerald ash borer (AGRILUS PLANIPENNIS)
Authors: Koski Tuuli‐Marjaana , Zhang Bin , Mogouong Judith , Wang Hualing , Chen Zhenzhu , Li Huiping , Bushley Kathryn E. , Sun Jianghua
Published: June 2024

Emerald ash borer (EAB, Agrilus planipennis) is an invasive killer of ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) in North America and Europe. Ash species co‐evolved with EAB in their native range in Asia are mostly resistant, although the precise mechanism(s) remain unclear. Very little is also known about EAB or ash tree microbiomes. We performed the first joint comparison of phloem mycobiome and metabolites between a native and a nonnative ash species, infested and uninfested with EAB, in conjunction with investigation of larval mycobiome. Phloem mycobiome communities differed between the tree species, but both were unaffected by EAB infestation. Several indicator taxa in the larval gut shared a similarly high relative abundance only with the native host trees. Widely targeted metabolomics revealed 24 distinct metabolites in native trees and 53 metabolites in nonnative trees, respectively, that differed in relative content between infested and uninfested trees only in one species. Interestingly, four metabolites shared a strong relationship with the phloem mycobiomes, majority of which affected only the native trees. Collectively, our results demonstrate a complex interplay between host tree chemistry and mycobiome, and suggest the shared relationships between the mycobiomes of the native host tree and EAB may reflect their shared co‐evolution.
Cholesterol profiling reveals 7β‐hydroxycholesterol as a pathologically relevant peripheral biomarker of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ha Junghee , Kwon Go Eun , Son Yumi , Jang Soo Ah , Cho So Yeon , Park Soo Jin , Kim Hyunjeong , Lee Jimin , Lee Juseok , Seo Dongryul , Lee Myeongjee , Lee Do Yup , Choi Man Ho , Kim Eosu
Published: June 2024

Aim

Cholesterol homeostasis is associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Despite the multitude of cholesterol metabolites, little is known about which metabolites are directly involved in AD pathogenesis and can serve as its potential biomarkers.

Methods

To identify “hit” metabolites, steroid profiling was conducted in mice with different age, diet, and genotype and also in humans with normal cognition, mild cognitive impairment, and AD using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Then, using one of the “hit” molecules (7β‐hydroxycholesterol; OHC), molecular and histopathological experiment and behavioral testing were conducted in normal mice following its intracranial stereotaxic injection to see whether this molecule drives AD pathogenesis and causes cognitive impairment.

Results

The serum levels of several metabolites, including 7β‐OHC, were increased by aging in the 3xTg‐AD unlike normal mice. Consistently, the levels of 7β‐OHC were increased in the hairs of patients with AD and were correlated with clinical severity. We found that 7β‐OHC directly affects AD‐related pathophysiology; intrahippocampal injection of 7β‐OHC induced astrocyte and microglial cell activation, increased the levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐alpha, IL‐1β, IL‐6), and enhanced amyloidogenic pathway. Mice treated with 7β‐OHC also exhibited deficits in memory and frontal/executive functions assessed by object recognition and 5‐choice serial reaction time task, respectively.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that 7β‐OHC could serve as a convenient, peripheral biomarker of AD. As directly involved in AD pathogenesis, 7β‐OHC assay may help actualize personalized medicine in a way to identify an at‐risk subgroup as a candidate population for statin‐based AD treatment.
Modeling action: Recasting the causal theory
Authors: Fritts Megan , Cabrera Frank
Published: June 2024

Contemporary action theory is generally concerned with giving theories of action ontology. In this paper, we make the novel proposal that the standard view in action theory—the Causal Theory of Action—should be recast as a “model,” akin to the models constructed and investigated by scientists. Such models often consist in fictional, hypothetical, or idealized structures, which are used to represent a target system indirectly via some resemblance relation. We argue that recasting the Causal Theory as a model can not only accomplish the goals of causal theorists, but also give the theory greater flexibility in responding to common objections.
Red light‐activated depletion of drug‐refractory glioblastoma stem cells and chemosensitization of an acquired‐resistant mesenchymal phenotype
Authors: Spring Bryan Q. , Watanabe Kohei , Ichikawa Megumi , Mallidi Srivalleesha , Matsudaira Tatsuyuki , Timerman Dmitriy , Swain Joseph W. R. , Mai Zhiming , Wakimoto Hiroaki , Hasan Tayyaba
Published: June 2024

Glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) are potent tumor initiators resistant to radiochemotherapy, and this subpopulation is hypothesized to re‐populate the tumor milieu due to selection following conventional therapies. Here, we show that 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA) treatment—a pro‐fluorophore used for fluorescence‐guided cancer surgery—leads to elevated levels of fluorophore conversion in patient‐derived GSC cultures, and subsequent red light‐activation induces apoptosis in both intrinsically temozolomide chemotherapy‐sensitive and ‐resistant GSC phenotypes. Red light irradiation of ALA‐treated cultures also exhibits the ability to target mesenchymal GSCs (Mes–GSCs) with induced temozolomide resistance. Furthermore, sub‐lethal light doses restore Mes–GSC sensitivity to temozolomide, abrogating GSC‐acquired chemoresistance. These results suggest that ALA is not only useful for fluorescence‐guided glioblastoma tumor resection, but that it also facilitates a GSC drug‐resistance agnostic, red light‐activated modality to mop up the surgical margins and prime subsequent chemotherapy.
Depressive symptoms, task choice, and effort: The moderating effect of personal control on cardiac response
Authors: Falk Johanna R. , Gollwitzer Peter M. , Oettingen Gabriele , Brinkmann Kerstin , Gendolla Guido H. E.
Published: June 2024

Dysphoric individuals perceive mental tasks as more demanding and show increased cardiovascular responses during the performance of easy cognitive tasks. Recent research on action shielding indicates that providing individuals with personal control over their tasks can mitigate the effects of manipulated affective states on cardiovascular responses reflecting effort. We investigated whether the shielding effect of personal choice also applies to the effect of dispositional negative mood on effort. N = 125 university students with high (dysphoric) versus low (nondysphoric) depressive symptoms engaged in an easy cognitive task either by personal choice or external assignment. As expected, dysphoric individuals showed significantly stronger cardiac PEP reactivity during task performance when the task was externally assigned. Most importantly, this dysphoria effect disappeared when participants could ostensibly personally choose their task. Our findings show that the previously observed shielding effect of personal action choice against incidental affective stimulation also applies to dispositional negative affect.
Who has an R&D investment opportunity? Who goes ahead? How much do they invest?
Authors: Cowling Marc , Liu Weixi , Vorley Tim
Published: June 2024

We know a lot about how much firms invest in R&D, but less about the critical first step which is a potential R&D opportunity. We use a large UK survey and detailed case study evidence to establish the chain of events from opportunity to the investment choice. Our results show that 34% of firms had identified an R&D investment opportunity. Realised R&D investment projects were typically between £100,000 and £1/2 m over a 5‐year window. The dominant factors were firm size, industry, equity investment, knowledge and absorptive capacity. The process of R&D management also had an outward, market facing aspect, and an inward, engineering and financial aspect that were often conducted in parallel.
Investigation of the protective effects of different forms of selenium in freezing dog semen: Comparison of nanoparticle selenium and sodium selenite
Authors: Esin Burcu , Kaya Cumali , Akar Melih , Çevik Mesut
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of nanoparticle selenium (SeNP) and sodium selenite (SS) on preventing oxidative stress during the freezing process of dog semen. A total of six dogs were used in the study. The ejaculate was collected from dogs three times at different times by massage method. A total of 18 ejaculates were used and each ejaculate was divided in five experimental groups. The experimental groups were designed to tris extender containing no antioxidants control, 1 μg/mL SeNP1, 2 μg/mL SeNP2, and 1 μg/mL SS1 and 2 μg/mL SS2. Extended semen were equilibrated for 1 h at 4°C, then frozen in liquid nitrogen vapour and stored in liquid nitrogen (~−196°C). After thawing, semen samples were evaluated in terms of CASA motility and kinematic parameters, spermatozoa plasma membrane integrity and viability (HE Test), spermatozoa morphology (SpermBlue) and DNA fragmentation (GoldCyto). Antioxidant enzyme activity (glutathione peroxidase; GPX, superoxide dismutase; SOD, catalase; CAT) and lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde; MDA) were evaluated in frozen–thawed dog sperm. When the results were evaluated statistically, the progressive motility, VCL, and VAP kinematic parameters in the SeNP1 group were significantly higher than the control group after thawing (p < .05). The highest ratio of plasma membrane integrity and viable spermatozoa was observed in the SeNP1 group, but there was no statistical difference found between the groups (p > .05). Although the ratio of total morphological abnormality was observed to be lower in all groups to which different selenium forms were added, compared to the control group, no statistical difference was found. Spermatozoa tail abnormality was significantly lower in the SeNP1 group than in the control and SS2 group (p < .05). The lowest ratio of fragmented DNA was observed in the SeNP1 group, but there was no statistical difference was found between the groups (p > .05). Although there was no statistical difference between the groups in the evaluation of sperm antioxidant profile, the highest GPX, SOD and CAT values and the lowest lipid peroxidation values were obtained in the SeNP1 group. As a result, it was determined that 1 μg/mL dose of SeNP added to the tris‐based extender in dog semen was beneficial on spermatological parameters, especially sperm kinematic properties and sperm morphology, and therefore nanoparticle selenium, a nanotechnology product, made a significant contribution to the freezing of dog semen.
Oestrogen and progesterone concentrations in intrapartum cows with insufficient cervix dilation
Authors: Sendag Sait , Koca Davut , Arslan Talha , Schuler Gerhard , Wehrend Axel
Published: June 2024

The cervix is an important organ that has to dilate sufficiently at delivery to allow the foetus to transition to extrauterine life. Insufficient dilatation of the cervix (IDC) is a frequent cause of dystocia in cattle. The mechanisms underlying cervical opening and the pathogenesis of IDC are still widely unclear. Systematic studies on the relationship between IDC and steroid hormones have been limited and have yielded inconsistent findings. This study aimed to measure oestrogen and progesterone (P4) concentrations in intrapartum cows presented with dystocia due to IDC and in a comparison (C) group of cows with eutocic delivery. Before any obstetrical procedures, and right after the initial evaluation, blood samples were taken from IDC and C animals. Concentrations of P4, oestradiol‐17β (E2), free total oestrogens (FTE) and conjugated total oestrogens (CTE) were measured by established radioimmunoassays. Concentrations of P4 (p = .538), FTE (p = .065) and CTE (p = .605) were not statistically different between C and IDC groups. However, E2 levels in group C were significantly lower when compared to those in the IDC group (p = .013), which is inconsistent with the function of oestrogens in cervical dilatation. The correlation analysis demonstrated significant positive correlations between the pairs P4 versus FTE, P4 versus E2 and FTE versus E2 in group C and between the pair FTE versus E2 in group IDC. In conclusion, the results suggest that local activities of steroids relevant to the aetiology of IDC are not reflected by concentrations in the systemic circulation or that other factors are clearly more important.
Relationship Between Advanced Footwear Technology Longitudinal Bending Stiffness and Energy Cost of Running
Authors: Rodrigo‐Carranza Víctor , Hoogkamer Wouter , González‐Ravé José María , González‐Mohíno Fernando
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Purpose

Shoe longitudinal bending stiffness (LBS) is often considered to influence running economy (RE) and thus, running performance. However, previous results are mixed and LBS levels have not been studied in advanced footwear technology (AFT). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of increased LBS from curved carbon fiber plates embedded within an AFT midsole compared to a traditional running shoe on RE and spatiotemporal parameters.

Methods

Twenty‐one male trained runners completed three times 4 min at 13 km/h with two experimental shoe models with a curved carbon fiber plate embedded in an AFT midsole with different LBS values (Stiff: 35.5 N/mm and Stiffest: 43.1 N/mm), and a Control condition (no carbon fiber plate: 20.1 N/mm). We measured energy cost of running (W/kg) and spatiotemporal parameters in one visit.

Results

RE improved for the Stiff shoe condition (15.71 ± 0.95 W/kg; p < 0.001; n2 = 0.374) compared to the Control condition (16.13 ± 1.08 W/kg; 2.56%) and Stiffest condition (16.03 ± 1.19 W/kg; 1.98%). However, we found no significant differences between the Stiffest and Control conditions. Moreover, there were no spatiotemporal differences between shoe conditions.

Conclusion

Changes in LBS in AFT influences RE suggesting that moderately stiff shoes have the most effective LBS to improve RE in AFT compared to very stiff shoes and traditional, flexible shoe conditions while running at 13 km/h.