bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA methylation machinery is involved in development and reproduction in the viviparous pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum)
Authors: Yoon Kane , Williams Stephanie , Duncan Elizabeth J.
Published: June 2024

Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, have been proposed to mediate plastic responses in insects. The pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum), like the majority of extant aphids, displays cyclical parthenogenesis ‐ the ability of mothers to switch the reproductive mode of their offspring from reproducing parthenogenetically to sexually in response to environmental cues. The pea aphid genome encodes two paralogs of the de novo DNA methyltransferase gene, dnmt3a and dnmt3x. Here we show, using phylogenetic analysis, that this gene duplication event occurred at least 150 million years ago, likely after the divergence of the lineage leading to the Aphidomorpha (phylloxerans, adelgids and true aphids) from that leading to the scale insects (Coccomorpha) and that the two paralogs are maintained in the genomes of all aphids examined. We also show that the mRNA of both dnmt3 paralogs is maternally expressed in the viviparous aphid ovary. During development both paralogs are expressed in the germ cells of embryos beginning at stage 5 and persisting throughout development. Treatment with 5‐azactyidine, a chemical that generally inhibits the DNA methylation machinery, leads to defects of oocytes and early‐stage embryos and causes a proportion of later stage embryos to be born dead or die soon after birth. These phenotypes suggest a role for DNA methyltransferases in reproduction, consistent with that seen in other insects. Taking the vast evolutionary history of the dnmt3 paralogs, and the localisation of their mRNAs in the ovary, we suggest there is a role for dnmt3a and/or dnmt3x in early development, and a role for DNA methylation machinery in reproduction and development of the viviparous pea aphid.
Knowledge and attitudes regarding pressure injuries among assistant nurses in a clinical context
Authors: Bjurbo Charlotte , Wetzer Elisabeth , Thunborg David , Zhang Li , Hultin Lisa
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to evaluate assistant nurses' knowledge of and attitudes towards pressure injuries in a clinical setting. It employed a cross‐sectional design, using two validated surveys: PUKAT 2.0 and APUP, alongside open‐ended questions. A convenience sample of 88 assistant nurses from five wards across two departments at a 600‐bed university hospital in Sweden participated. Participants answered the questionnaire and open‐ended questions, followed by a learning seminar led by the study leader covering PUKAT 2.0 knowledge questions. The seminar ended with an evaluation of this training approach. Results revealed a significant knowledge gap in pressure injury prevention among assistant nurses, with a mean PUKAT 2.0 knowledge score of 33.8 and a standard deviation of ±11.7 (a score of 60 is deemed satisfactory). Only 3.4% (n = 3) of participants achieved a satisfactory knowledge score. However, attitudes towards pressure injury prevention, assessed by the APUP tool, were generally positive among the majority of the participants. Open‐ended questions and evaluations of the seminar showed assistant nurses' desire for pressure injury prevention training and their appreciation for the seminar format. Further studies need to evaluate recurrent training procedures and departmental strategies aimed at reducing the knowledge gap among healthcare staff.
Individual‐level biotic interactions and species distribution models
Authors: Gaya Heather E. , Chandler Richard B.
Published: June 2024

Aim

Accounting for biotic interactions in species distribution models is complicated by the fact that interactions occur at the individual‐level at unknown spatial scales. Standard approaches that ignore individual‐level interactions and focus on aggregate scales are subject to the modifiable aerial unit problem (MAUP) in which incorrect inferences may arise about the sign and magnitude of interspecific effects.

Location

Global (simulation) and North Carolina, United States (case study).

Taxon

None (simulation) and Aves (case study).

Methods

We present a hierarchical species distribution model that includes a Markov point process in which the locations of individuals of one species are modelled as a function of both abiotic variables and the locations of individuals of another species. We applied the model to spatial capture‐recapture (SCR) data on two ecologically similar songbird species—hooded warbler (Setophaga citrina) and black‐throated blue warbler (Setophaga caerulescens)—that segregate over a climate gradient in the southern Appalachian Mountains, USA.

Results

A simulation study indicated that the model can identify the effects of environmental variation and biotic interactions on co‐occurring species distributions. In the case study, there were strong and opposing effects of climate on spatial variation in population densities, but spatial competition did not influence the two species' distributions.

Main Conclusions

Unlike existing species distribution models, the framework proposed here overcomes the MAUP and can be used to investigate how population‐level patterns emerge from individual‐level processes, while also allowing for inference on the spatial scale of biotic interactions. Our finding of minimal spatial competition between black‐throated blue warbler and hooded warbler adds to the growing body of literature suggesting that abiotic factors may be more important than competition at low‐latitude range margins. The model can be extended to accommodate count data and binary data in addition to SCR data.
Late‐night eating and inactivity: Links to depression and suicide risk in adolescents living in Turkey
Authors: Tuncay Suat , Sarman Abdullah
Published: June 2024

Objective

Depression, anxiety, and eating disorders are all common during adolescence. This study aims to investigate the potential relationship between eating at night, physical activity, and depression/suicide risk in adolescents.

Methods

This study followed a cross‐sectional descriptive design and involved collecting data from adolescents aged 13–18 years who attend four different high schools. The data collection was done through an online survey using Google Forms. Sociodemographic form, eating at night questionnaire, International Physical Activity Questionnaire (Short Form), Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale, and Suicide Probability Scale were used for data collection. The data collected were analyzed electronically using descriptive statistics and correlation tests to examine relationships between different parameters.

Results

The study revealed significant associations between academic achievement, daily sleep duration, and daily walking distance with depression and suicide probability (p < 0.05) among the participants. Adolescents who consumed food after 10 pm exhibited higher depression and suicide probability scores than their counterparts (p < 0.05). Additionally, an analysis of physical activity levels demonstrated that highly active adolescents had lower depression and suicide probability scores.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this study suggests that there is a significant relationship between eating at night, physical activity, and depression/suicide risk in adolescents. Specifically, academic success, daily sleep duration, daily walking distance, and eating habits were found to be associated with depression and suicide probability. Encouraging physical activity and healthy eating habits, particularly avoiding eating late at night, may be beneficial in reducing the risk of depression and suicide among adolescents.
Device‐estimated sleep metrics do not mediate the relation between race and blood pressure dipping in young black and white women
Authors: D'agata Michele N. , Hoopes Elissa K. , Keiser Thomas , Patterson Freda , Szymanski Krista M. , Matias Alexs A. , Brewer Benjamin C. , Witman Melissa A.
Published: June 2024

Short, disturbed, and irregular sleep may contribute to blunted nocturnal blood pressure (BP) dipping, a predictor of cardiovascular disease. Black women (BLW) demonstrate less BP dipping and poorer sleep health than White women (WHW). However, it remains unclear whether device‐estimated sleep health metrics mediate the relation between race and BP dipping in young women. We hypothesized that the relation between race and BP dipping would be partly mediated by sleep health metrics of sleep duration, sleep efficiency, and sleep regularity. Participants (20 BLW, 17 WHW) were 18–29 years old, normotensive, nonobese, and without evidence of sleep disorders. Systolic and diastolic BP dipping were derived from 24‐h ambulatory BP monitoring. Habitual sleep duration and sleep efficiency were estimated via 14 days of wrist actigraphy. Sleep duration regularity was calculated as the standard deviation (SD) of nightly sleep duration (SDSD). Sleep timing regularity metrics were calculated as the SD of sleep onset and sleep midpoint (SMSD). Mediation analysis tested the mediating effect of each sleep metric on the relation between race and BP dipping. BLW experienced less systolic (P = .02) and diastolic (P = .01) BP dipping. Sleep duration (P = .14) was not different between groups. BLW had lower sleep efficiency (P < .01) and higher SDSD (P = .02), sleep onset SD (P < .01) and SMSD (P = .01). No sleep metrics mediated the relation between race and BP dipping (all indirect effects P > .38). In conclusion, mediation pathways of sleep health metrics do not explain racial differences in nocturnal BP dipping between young BLW and WHW.
New record of Epinephelus quoyanus (Valenciennes, 1830) predation on green sea turtle hatchlings at a turtle nesting site
Authors: Serrurier‐Arabadjieva Margot , Tolen Nicholas , Rusli Mohd Uzair , Kochzius Marc , Bachok Zainudin , Abdullah Maizah M.
Published: June 2024

This paper presents the observations of predation by the grouper Epinephelus quoyanus on sea turtle hatchlings in Chagar Hutang bay, Redang Island, Malaysia. Two of the eight collected specimens had hatchlings in their guts, whereas the remaining specimens had empty stomachs. This field report provides an in‐depth understanding of the E. quoyanus diet and new insights into its feeding behavior.
Glyceraldehyde metabolism in mouse brain and the entry of blood‐borne glyceraldehyde into the brain
Authors: Hassel Bjørnar , Sørnes Kristian , Elsais Ahmed , Cordero Patricia Reyes , Frøland Anne Sofie , Rise Frode
Published: June 2024

D‐Glyceraldehyde, a reactive aldehyde metabolite of fructose and glucose, is neurotoxic in vitro by forming advanced glycation end products (AGEs) with neuronal proteins. In Alzheimer's disease brains, glyceraldehyde‐containing AGEs have been detected intracellularly and in extracellular plaques. However, little information exists on how the brain handles D‐glyceraldehyde metabolically or if glyceraldehyde crosses the blood–brain barrier from the circulation into the brain. We injected [U‐13C]‐D‐glyceraldehyde intravenously into awake mice and analyzed extracts of serum and brain by 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. 13C‐Labeling of brain lactate and glutamate indicated passage of D‐glyceraldehyde from blood to brain and glycolytic and oxidative D‐glyceraldehyde metabolism in brain cells. 13C‐Labeling of serum glucose and lactate through hepatic metabolism of [U‐13C]‐D‐glyceraldehyde could not explain the formation of 13C‐labeled lactate and glutamate in the brain. Cerebral glyceraldehyde dehydrogenase and reductase activities, leading to the formation of D‐glycerate and glycerol, respectively, were 0.27–0.28 nmol/mg/min; triokinase, which phosphorylates D‐glyceraldehyde to D‐glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate, has been demonstrated previously at low levels. Thus, D‐glyceraldehyde metabolism toward glycolysis could proceed both through D‐glycerate, glycerol, and D‐glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate. The aldehyde group of D‐glyceraldehyde was overwhelmingly hydrated into a diol in aqueous solution, but the diol dehydration rate greatly exceeded glyceraldehyde metabolism and did not restrict it. We conclude that (1) D‐glyceraldehyde crosses the blood–brain barrier, and so blood‐borne glyceraldehyde could contribute to AGE formation in the brain, (2) glyceraldehyde is taken up and metabolized by brain cells. Metabolism thus constitutes a detoxification mechanism for this reactive aldehyde, a mechanism that may be compromised in disease states.

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Variations in dietary patterns of living sloths revealed by finite element analysis of jaws
Authors: Melki Luiza B. , Barbosa Fernando H. S. , Alves‐Silva Laís , Bergqvist Lilian P.
Published: June 2024

Although extinct sloths exhibited a wide range of dietary habits, modes of locomotion, and occupied various niches across the Americas, modern sloths are considered quite similar in their habits. The dietary habits of living sloths can be directly observed in the wild, and understanding the mechanical behavior of their jaws during chewing through finite element analysis (FEA) provides a valuable validation tool for comparative analysis with their extinct counterparts. In this study, we used FEA to simulate the mechanical behavior of sloth mandibles under lateral mastication loads, using it as a proxy for oral processing. Our research focused on the six extant sloth species to better understand their diets and validate the use of FEA for studying their extinct relatives. We found that all living sloths have the predominancy of low‐stress areas in their mandibles but with significant differences. Choloepus didactylus had larger high‐stress areas, which could be linked to a reduced need for processing tougher foods as an opportunistic generalist. Bradypus variegatus and Choloepus hoffmanni are shown to be similar, displaying large low‐stress areas, indicating greater oral processing capacity in a seasonal and more competitive environment. Bradypus torquatus, Bradypus pygmaeus, and Bradypus tridactylus exhibited intermediary processing patterns, which can be linked to a stable food supply in more stable environments and a reduced requirement for extensive oral processing capacity. This study sheds light on extant sloths' dietary adaptations and has implications for understanding the ecological roles and evolutionary history of their extinct counterparts.
Attentional Uniqueness and Firm Performance: The Mediating Role of Growth Actions
Authors: Shimizu Takumi , Nagayama Susumu , Yamanoi Junichi
Published: June 2024

The attention‐based view posits that a firm's allocation of attention to particular issues directly influences its actions and performance. Yet, the impact of attentional uniqueness – how the pattern of a firm's attentional allocation diverges from its competitors within the same industry – on behaviour and performance remains underexplored. We argue for an inverted U‐shaped relationship between attentional uniqueness and firm performance, mediated by the frequency of growth actions. This is because a firm's attentional allocation shapes its reaction to problems, opportunities, and threats in the competitive landscape, resulting in its competitive advantage. To generate growth actions, a firm needs to have both a unique perspective and a general understanding of its industry. Furthermore, we propose that this relationship is contingent on environmental munificence, which reflects the presence of growth opportunities. Our analysis, leveraging structural topic modelling on annual security reports from 986 Japanese listed companies between 2004 and 2016, broadly supports these theoretical predictions.
Stakeholder perspectives on continuous observation in inpatient psychiatric wards
Authors: Anstee Lottie , Chifamba Denford , Loothfaully Wasim , Suleiman Suleiman , Shah Chetan , Littlechild Brian , Zia Asif
Published: June 2024

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

Continuous observation is often used in mental health wards to support the safety of service users, where they will be constantly watched by a member of staff.

Evidence suggests that continuous observations may be unhelpful and restrictive, but not enough is known about the practice or the best ways to improve it.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge?

This evaluation integrates the perspectives of service users, informal carers and staff to explore current continuous observation experiences and inform future improvements.

While previous research highlights the importance of therapeutic engagement, this study additionally emphasizes how the observation procedure could be adapted to individual needs.

What are the implications for practice?

Continuous observations could be more beneficial if they are therapeutic, proportional to the level of risk and co‐developed with the service user, informal carer and staff.

Further training about communication could support staff engagement and the observation process could be formalized to ensure regular collaborative reviews.

Introduction

Continuous observation is a frequently used tool to manage high levels of risk on psychiatric wards. However, there is little previous research on its use in practice.

Aim

This qualitative service evaluation aims to explore the continuous observation experiences of service users, informal carers and staff in a local NHS Mental Health Trust, informing suggested future improvements to current practice.

Method

Five service users, three informal carers and seven healthcare staff completed semi‐structured interviews, which were thematically analysed to create four themes.

Results

Positive interaction and engagement in activities were critical for a therapeutic approach to observations, supporting service users and staff to minimize the unproductive behaviours that can arise. Difficulties balancing safety with privacy could suggest the importance of proportionate and tailored observation procedures for each service user. Ensuring the voices of service users and informal carers remain central to decisions regarding care could further improve the observation experience.

Implications for Practice

This study highlights therapeutic, proportionate and co‐produced observations as key characteristics to improve practice. Further training and formalization of the observation process could foster cultural changes towards more long‐term approaches to risk management.
Pandemic policies and sleeping problems in older adults
Authors: Rodrigues Paula Maria Fernandes , Silva Paulo Gabriel Salgado , Voss Gina , Martinez‐Pecino Roberto , Delerue‐Matos Alice
Published: June 2024

Sleep quality is fundamental to physical and mental health. Recent research shows that the COVID‐19 pandemic has affected individuals’ sleep quality. This study aims to investigate whether the containment and health policies (Oxford Coronavirus Government Response Tracker indexes) adopted by European countries and Israel during the pandemic are related to sleep problems in people aged 50 and over. A cross‐sectional study was conducted using a logistic regression analysis based on data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe, collected in 27 European countries and Israel, in 2021. The results show that containment and health policies affect older adults’ sleep, once we neutralise the influence of the sociodemographic, economic, and health characteristics of the individuals and close contact with COVID‐19. In fact, the more containment and health policies, the fewer chances of sleep problems. A possible explanation for this is that these policies give people over 50 a sense of safety and security in relation to COVID‐19, which may reduce sleep problems.
Asteroid (101955) Bennu in the laboratory: Properties of the sample collected by OSIRIS‐REx
Authors: Lauretta Dante S. , Connolly Harold C. , Aebersold Joseph E. , Alexander Conel M. O'D. , Ballouz Ronald‐L. , Barnes Jessica J. , Bates Helena C. , Bennett Carina A. , Blanche Laurinne , Blumenfeld Erika H. , Clemett Simon J. , Cody George D. , DellaGiustina Daniella N. , Dworkin Jason P. , Eckley Scott A. , Foustoukos Dionysis I. , Franchi Ian A. , Glavin Daniel P. , Greenwood Richard C. , Haenecour Pierre , Hamilton Victoria E. , Hill Dolores H. , Hiroi Takahiro , Ishimaru Kana , Jourdan Fred , Kaplan Hannah H. , Keller Lindsay P. , King Ashley J. , Koefoed Piers , Kontogiannis Melissa K. , Le Loan , Macke Robert J. , McCoy Timothy J. , Milliken Ralph E. , Najorka Jens , Nguyen Ann N. , Pajola Maurizio , Polit Anjani T. , Righter Kevin , Roper Heather L. , Russell Sara S. , Ryan Andrew J. , Sandford Scott A. , Schofield Paul F. , Schultz Cody D. , Seifert Laura B. , Tachibana Shogo , Thomas‐Keprta Kathie L. , Thompson Michelle S. , Tu Valerie , Tusberti Filippo , Wang Kun , Zega Thomas J. , Wolner C. W. V. ,   the OSIRIS‐REx Sample Analysis Team
Published: June 2024

On September 24, 2023, NASA's OSIRIS‐REx mission dropped a capsule to Earth containing ~120 g of pristine carbonaceous regolith from Bennu. We describe the delivery and initial allocation of this asteroid sample and introduce its bulk physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties from early analyses. The regolith is very dark overall, with higher‐reflectance inclusions and particles interspersed. Particle sizes range from submicron dust to a stone ~3.5 cm long. Millimeter‐scale and larger stones typically have hummocky or angular morphologies. Some stones appear mottled by brighter material that occurs as veins and crusts. Hummocky stones have the lowest densities and mottled stones have the highest. Remote sensing of Bennu's surface detected hydrated phyllosilicates, magnetite, organic compounds, carbonates, and scarce anhydrous silicates, all of which the sample confirms. We also find sulfides, presolar grains, and, less expectedly, Mg,Na‐rich phosphates, as well as other trace phases. The sample's composition and mineralogy indicate substantial aqueous alteration and resemble those of Ryugu and the most chemically primitive, low‐petrologic‐type carbonaceous chondrites. Nevertheless, we find distinct hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen isotopic compositions, and some of the material we analyzed is enriched in fluid‐mobile elements. Our findings underscore the value of sample return—especially for low‐density material that may not readily survive atmospheric entry—and lay the groundwork for more comprehensive analyses.
Arsenate reductase of Rufibacter tibetensis is a metallophosphoesterase evolved to catalyze redox reactions
Authors: Shen Jie , Song Xin‐Wei , Bickel David , Rosen Barry P. , Zhao Fang‐Jie , Messens Joris , Zhang Jun
Published: June 2024

An arsenate reductase (Car1) from the Bacteroidetes species Rufibacter tibetensis 1351T was isolated from the Tibetan Plateau. The strain exhibits resistance to arsenite [As(III)] and arsenate [As(V)] and reduces As(V) to As(III). Here we shed light on the mechanism of enzymatic reduction by Car1. AlphaFold2 structure prediction, active site energy minimization, and steady‐state kinetics of wild‐type and mutant enzymes give insight into the catalytic mechanism. Car1 is structurally related to calcineurin‐like metallophosphoesterases (MPPs). It functions as a binuclear metal hydrolase with limited phosphatase activity, particularly relying on the divalent metal Ni2+. As an As(V) reductase, it displays metal promiscuity and is coupled to the thioredoxin redox cycle, requiring the participation of two cysteine residues, Cys74 and Cys76. These findings suggest that Car1 evolved from a common ancestor of extant phosphatases by incorporating a redox function into an existing MPP catalytic site. Its proposed mechanism of arsenate reduction involves Cys74 initiating a nucleophilic attack on arsenate, leading to the formation of a covalent intermediate. Next, a nucleophilic attack of Cys76 leads to the release of As(III) and the formation of a surface‐exposed Cys74‐Cys76 disulfide, ready for reduction by thioredoxin.
Analysis of LRBA pathogenic variants and the association with functional protein domains and clinical presentation
Authors: Perez‐Perez D. , Santos‐Argumedo L. , Rodriguez‐Alba J. C. , Lopez‐Herrera G.
Published: June 2024

LRBA is a cytoplasmic protein that is ubiquitously distributed. Almost all LRBA domains have a scaffolding function. In 2012, it was reported that homozygous variants in LRBA are associated with early‐onset hypogammaglobulinemia. Since its discovery, more than 100 pathogenic variants have been reported. This review focuses on the variants reported in LRBA and their possible associations with clinical phenotypes. In this work LRBA deficiency cases reported more than 11 years ago have been revised. A database was constructed to analyze the type of variants, age at onset, clinical diagnosis, infections, autoimmune diseases, and cellular and immunoglobulin levels. The review of cases from 2012 to 2023 showed that LRBA deficiency was commonly diagnosed in patients with a clinical diagnosis of Common Variable Immunodeficiency, followed by enteropathy, neonatal diabetes mellitus, ALPS, and X‐linked‐like syndrome. Most cases show early onset of presentation at <6 years of age. Most cases lack protein expression, whereas hypogammaglobulinemia is observed in half of the cases, and IgG and IgA levels are isotypes reported at low levels. Patients with elevated IgG levels exhibited more than one autoimmune manifestation. Patients carrying pathogenic variants leading to a premature stop codon show a severe phenotype as they have an earlier onset of disease presentation, severe autoimmune manifestations, premature death, and low B cells and regulatory T cell levels. Missense variants were more common in patients with low IgG levels and cytopenia. This work lead to the conclusion that the type of variant in LRBA has association with disease severity, which leads to a premature stop codon being the ones that correlates with severe disease.
Zaxinone Synthase overexpression modulates rice physiology and metabolism, enhancing nutrient uptake, growth and productivity
Authors: Ablazov Abdugaffor , Jamil Muhammad , Haider Imran , Wang Jian You , Melino Vanessa , Maghrebi Moez , Vigani Gianpiero , Liew Kit Xi , Lin Pei‐Yu , Chen Guan‐Ting Erica , Kuijer Hendrik N. J. , Berqdar Lamis , Mazzarella Teresa , Fiorilli Valentina , Lanfranco Luisa , Zheng Xiongjie , Dai Nai‐Chiang , Lai Ming‐Hsin , Caroline Hsing Yue‐Ie , Tester Mark , Blilou Ikram , Al‐Babili Salim
Published: June 2024

The rice Zaxinone Synthase (ZAS) gene encodes a carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase (CCD) that forms the apocarotenoid growth regulator zaxinone in vitro. Here, we generated and characterized constitutive ZAS‐overexpressing rice lines, to better understand ZAS role in determining zaxinone content and regulating growth and architecture. ZAS overexpression enhanced endogenous zaxinone level, promoted root growth and increased the number of productive tillers, leading to about 30% higher grain yield per plant. Hormone analysis revealed a decrease in strigolactone (SL) content, which we confirmed by rescuing the high‐tillering phenotype through application of a SL analogue. Metabolomics analysis revealed that ZAS overexpressing plants accumulate higher amounts of monosaccharide sugars, in line with transcriptome analysis. Moreover, transgenic plants showed higher carbon (C) assimilation rate and elevated root phosphate, nitrate and sulphate level, enhancing the tolerance towards low phosphate (Pi). Our study confirms ZAS as an important determinant of rice growth and architecture and shows that ZAS regulates hormone homoeostasis and a combination of physiological processes to promote growth and grain yield, which makes this gene an excellent candidate for sustainable crop improvement.
Microwave treatment ameliorates beaded eyelid papules caused by lipoid proteinosis
Authors: Zhang Bowen , Zeng Xiandong , Jiang Yanhua , Chen Linlin , Xu Xuegang
Published: June 2024

An 8‐year‐old girl presented with white papules on the eyelid margins due to lipoid proteinosis. Microwave therapy resulted in significant reduction of the lesions. The case highlights a safe and effective treatment for eyelid lesions associated with lipoid proteinosis. In addition, we report two novel heterozygous variants in the extracellular matrix protein 1 (ECM1) gene.
Private discrimination, marriage markets, and caste
Authors: Steuwer Bastian
Published: June 2024

Anti‐discrimination laws draw a distinction between two kinds of discrimination by non‐state actors. Intimate choices are protected even if they are morally wrong. For example, even if it is morally wrong to discriminate on the basis of race in deciding whom to date, marry or befriend, anti‐discrimination laws permit these acts. By contrast, commercial decisions are commonly regulated. I argue that the reasons for regulating commercial decisions also extend to an intermediate case, commercial facilitators of marriage choices. In the context of the caste system, I argue that commercial facilitators should be banned from allowing customers to filter by caste. The argument is based on two considerations. First, this could mitigate the harmful effects of such discriminatory marriages choices in the (re)production of the oppressive caste system. Second, even if the ban fails in changing behaviour, it serves as an expressive goal of communicating the state's opposition to the caste system.
Development of Synthetic Lumbar Vertebrae using Custom-made Mould for Orthopaedics Training: Micro-Structural Analysis
Authors: Ahmad Zamri Nurul Najihah , Zulkefli Siti Adawiyah , Abdullah Nik Nur Ain Azrin , Faidzul Hassan Nur Syafiqah , Nasution Ahmad Kafrawi , Ramlee Muhammad Hanif
Published: June 2024

Human vertebrae composed of cortical and cancellous bone are crucial to provide the structural support of human framework and protect the organs underneath. Vertebrae from the Lumbar 3 (L3) was selected for fabrication because it is the most commonly used for surgical training. The use of human vertebrae in the orthopaedic studies is necessary to investigate various complications such as vertebral compression fracture and to propose the most suitable medical intervention for the treatment. However, investigations of cortical and cancellous material properties and composition have been limited. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to design a custom-made mould for synthetic lumbar vertebrae using moulding techniques that could exhibit the same anatomical structure as real vertebrae. Then, this study was carried out to establish a process of cortical and cancellous synthetic bone development. Lastly, this study was done to compare the morphological properties of synthetic bone produced with human bone. Utilizing Polyurethane (PU) as the main material was used for the fabrication, where it could inhibit the morphological properties that could mimic the human bone. The methods to fabricate the vertebrae also varied from static mould and rotational mould. The fabricated lumbar produced was tested for the morphological properties, targeting the pore diameter, was performed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). From this study, it was identified that the analysis of pore diameter from specimen of Ratio 3 from rotational mould depicts the smallest pore diameter and standard deviation, 1.5 ± 0.3 mm. While this specimen has the smallest value, the results were still higher when compared to the pore diameter of human trabecular bone (which ranges from 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm). In conclusion, the use of silicone custom-made moulds could provide synthetic vertebrae with an anatomical structure mimicking real human vertebrae.
Fertilizing the Flame: Effects of AB Fertilizer Concentration on Vegetative Growth, Fruit Yield, and Capsaicin Biosynthesis in Capsicum frutescens
Authors: Abdul Rahim Siti Aminah , Shamsir Shahir , Ibrahim Norahim
Published: June 2024

The Capsicum crops, known for their diverse phytochemical composition and pungency, are significantly influenced by agricultural practices. This study presents research on the 'cili padi' variety of Capsicum frutescens, a relatively unexplored species, grown hydroponically on a cocopeat medium using a high-quality AB fertilizer with varied nutrient concentrations. The research focused on analysing plant growth patterns, fruit yield, and capsaicinoid levels throughout the growth cycle. This involved detailed morphological measurements, productivity assessments, and the use of cyclic voltammetry for capsaicinoid quantification. The findings revealed that vegetation growth, yield, and metabolite parameters were closely linked to fertilizer concentration. Notably, an increase in nutrient availability led to improvements in plant growth metrics, fruit yield, and capsaicin levels. However, these benefits peaked within a specific fertilizer concentration range (1.5-2.1 E.C.-mS/cm) before declining, indicating the existence of toxicity thresholds. The study highlights the critical importance of balanced fertilization in hydroponic cultivation of C. frutescens, as it simultaneously enhances productivity and pungency quality. Interestingly, the research uncovered a threshold in nutrient concentration that optimizes nitrate conversion into capsaicin, beyond which overall plant growth continues to increase with higher fertilizer quantities. This finding necessitates further investigation into the metabolic and transport pathways that limit phytochemical production in these plants. Additionally, the capsaicinoid concentrations achieved in this study resulted in only moderately pungent Scoville ratings, suggesting a variance in biosynthetic capacity between this specific local species and more commonly studied pepper types. In summary, this research underscores the importance of a well-calibrated fertilization strategy to effectively boost both yield and pungency quality in C.frutescens . The insights gained from this study contribute significantly to our understanding of optimal hydroponic cultivation practices for enhancing the desirable traits of this unique chili variety.
On roots of quadratic congruences
Authors: Ngo Hieu T.
Published: June 2024

The equidistribution of roots of quadratic congruences with prime moduli depends crucially upon effective bounds for special Weyl linear forms. Duke, Friedlander and Iwaniec discovered strong estimates for these Weyl linear forms when the quadratic polynomial has negative discriminant. Tóth proved analogous but weaker bounds when the quadratic polynomial has positive discriminant. We establish strong estimates for these Weyl linear forms for quadratics of positive discriminants. As an application of our bounds, we derive a quantitative uniform distribution of modular square roots with integer moduli in an arithmetic progression.
Effect of frequency compression on fricative perception between normal-hearing English and Mandarin listeners
Authors: Roy Abhijit , Bradlow Ann , Souza Pamela
Published: June 2024

High-frequency speech information is susceptible to inaccurate perception in even mild to moderate forms of hearing loss. Some hearing aids employ frequency-lowering methods such as nonlinear frequency compression (NFC) to help hearing-impaired individuals access high-frequency speech information in more accessible lower-frequency regions. As such techniques cause significant spectral distortion, tests such as the S-Sh Confusion Test help optimize NFC settings to provide high-frequency audibility with the least distortion. Such tests have been traditionally based on speech contrasts pertinent to English. Here, the effects of NFC processing on fricative perception between English and Mandarin listeners are assessed. Small but significant differences in fricative discrimination were observed between the groups. The study demonstrates possible need for language-specific clinical fitting procedures for NFC.
Examining the Relationship Between Perceived Coaching Approaches for Life Skills Development and Life Skills Outcomes for High School Athletes
Authors: Pierce Scott , O’Neil Liam , Camiré Martin , Bean Corliss , Rathwell Scott
Published: June 2024

Promoting life skills is a prominent focus of the mission of high school sports. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between perceived coaching approaches for life skills development and life skills outcomes for high school athletes. A total of 346 athletes participating in high school sports from the United States completed the athlete-reported version of the Coaching Life Skills in Sport Questionnaire (perceived implicit and explicit coaching approaches) and the Life Skills Scale for Sport. Findings from hierarchical and stepwise regression models revealed that perceived implicit and explicit levels of coaching were differentially associated with each of the eight life skills outcomes, with the most consistent and significant predictor of life skills outcomes being structuring and facilitating a positive climate. Findings are discussed in relation to the conceptual and practical utility of the implicit–explicit continuum of life skills development and transfer, the importance of coach and athlete awareness of coaching approaches for life skills development, and recognition of the strengths and limitations of a variety of ontological and epistemological approaches to studying life skills in sport.
Better to Have Played Than Not Played? Childhood Sport Participation, Dropout Frequencies and Reasons, and Mental Health in Adulthood
Authors: Upenieks Laura , Ryan Brendan , Knoester Chris
Published: June 2024

This study considers the long-term mental health implications of organized youth sport participation, informed by an accumulation model of health, the Sport Commitment Model, and a life course perspective. Using data from the National Sports and Society Survey (N = 3,931) and multiple regression analyses, results indicate that adults who continually played organized youth sport had fewer depressive and anxiety symptoms compared with those who played and dropped out and those who never played. Dropouts had worse mental health than those who never played. Furthermore, among dropouts, reported interpersonal reasons for dropping out of organized sport were consistently associated with subsequent mental health but some structural factors also mattered. These findings point to a need to improve the interpersonal and structural environments of organized youth sport.
Cumulative risk of future bleaching for the world’s coral reefs
Authors: Mellin Camille , Brown Stuart , Cantin Neal , Klein-Salas Eduardo , Mouillot David , Heron Scott F. , Fordham Damien A.
Published: June 2024

Spatial and temporal patterns of future coral bleaching are uncertain, hampering global conservation efforts to protect coral reefs against climate change. Our analysis of daily projections of ocean warming establishes the severity, annual duration, and onset of severe bleaching risk for global coral reefs this century, pinpointing vital climatic refugia. We show that low-latitude coral regions are most vulnerable to thermal stress and will experience little reprieve from climate mitigation. By 2080, coral bleaching is likely to start on most reefs in spring, rather than late summer, with year-round bleaching risk anticipated to be high for some low-latitude reefs regardless of global efforts to mitigate harmful greenhouse gasses. By identifying Earth’s reef regions that are at lowest risk of accelerated bleaching, our results will prioritize efforts to limit future loss of coral reef biodiversity.
Nobody’s land? The oldest evidence of early Upper Paleolithic settlements in inland Iberia
Authors: Sala Nohemi , Alcaraz-Castaño Manuel , Arriolabengoa Martin , Martínez-Pillado Virginia , Pantoja-Pérez Ana , Rodríguez-Hidalgo Antonio , Téllez Edgar , Cubas Miriam , Castillo Samuel , Arnold Lee J. , Demuro Martina , Duval Mathieu , Arteaga-Brieba Andion , Llamazares Javier , Ochando Juan , Cuenca-Bescós Gloria , Marín-Arroyo Ana B. , Seijo María Martín , Luque Luis , Alonso-Llamazares Carmen , Arlegi Mikel , Rodríguez-Almagro Manuel , Calvo-Simal Cecilia , Izquierdo Beatriz , Cuartero Felipe , Torres-Iglesias Leire , Agudo-Pérez Lucía , Arribas Alfonso , Carrión José S. , Magri Donatella , Zhao J.-X. , Pablos Adrián
Published: June 2024

The Iberian Peninsula is a key region for unraveling human settlement histories of Eurasia during the period spanning the decline of Neandertals and the emergence of anatomically modern humans (AMH). There is no evidence of human occupation in central Iberia after the disappearance of Neandertals ~42,000 years ago until approximately 26,000 years ago, rendering the region “nobody’s land” during the Aurignacian period. The Abrigo de la Malia provides irrefutable evidence of human settlements dating back to 36,200 to 31,760 calibrated years before the present (cal B.P.) This site also records additional levels of occupation around 32,420 to 26,260 cal B.P., suggesting repeated settlement of this territory. Our multiproxy examination identifies a change in climate trending toward colder and more arid conditions. However, this climatic deterioration does not appear to have affected AMH subsistence strategies or their capacity to inhabit this region. These findings reveal the ability of AMH groups to colonize regions hitherto considered uninhabitable, reopening the debate on early Upper Paleolithic population dynamics of southwestern Europe.
Ironies of social robotics
Authors: Ziemke Tom
Published: June 2024

Aiming for “humanlike” or “natural” interactions can make social robots and their limitations more difficult to understand.
MEK-SHP2 inhibition prevents tibial pseudarthrosis caused by
NF1
loss in Schwann cells and skeletal stem/progenitor cells
Authors: Perrin Simon , Protic Sanela , Bretegnier Vincent , Laurendeau Ingrid , de Lageneste Oriane Duchamp , Panara Nicolas , Ruckebusch Odile , Luka Marine , Masson Cécile , Maillard Théodora , Coulpier Fanny , Pannier Stéphanie , Wicart Philippe , Hadj-Rabia Smail , Radomska Katarzyna J. , Zarhrate Mohammed , Ménager Mickael , Vidaud Dominique , Topilko Piotr , Parfait Béatrice , Colnot Céline
Published: June 2024

Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) is a severe pathology marked by spontaneous bone fractures that fail to heal, leading to fibrous nonunion. Half of patients with CPT are affected by the multisystemic genetic disorder neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) caused by mutations in the
NF1
tumor suppressor gene, a negative regulator of RAS–mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Here, we analyzed patients with CPT and
Prss56-Nf1
knockout mice to elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms of CPT-related fibrous nonunion and explored a pharmacological approach to treat CPT. We identified
NF1
-deficient Schwann cells and skeletal stem/progenitor cells (SSPCs) in pathological periosteum as affected cell types driving fibrosis. Whereas
NF1
-deficient SSPCs adopted a fibrotic fate,
NF1
-deficient Schwann cells produced critical paracrine factors including transforming growth factor–β and induced fibrotic differentiation of wild-type SSPCs. To counteract the elevated RAS-MAPK signaling in both
NF1
-deficient Schwann cells and SSPCs, we used MAPK kinase (MEK) and Src homology 2 containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 2 (SHP2) inhibitors. Combined MEK-SHP2 inhibition in vivo prevented fibrous nonunion in the
Prss56-Nf1
knockout mouse model, providing a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of fibrous nonunion in CPT.
TRPML1 triggers ferroptosis defense and is a potential therapeutic target in AKT-hyperactivated cancer
Authors: Zhang Hai-Liang , Hu Bing-Xin , Ye Zhi-Peng , Li Zhi-Ling , Liu Shan , Zhong Wen-Qing , Du Tian , Yang Dong , Mai Jia , Li Li-Chao , Chen Yu-Hong , Zhu Xian-Ying , Li Xuan , Feng Gong-Kan , Zhu Xiao-Feng , Deng Rong
Published: June 2024

Targeting ferroptosis for cancer therapy has slowed because of an incomplete understanding of ferroptosis mechanisms under specific pathological contexts such as tumorigenesis and cancer treatment. Here, we identify TRPML1-mediated lysosomal exocytosis as a potential anti-ferroptotic process through genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 activation and kinase inhibitor library screening. AKT directly phosphorylated TRPML1 at Ser
343
and inhibited K552 ubiquitination and proteasome degradation of TRPML1, thereby promoting TRPML1 binding to ARL8B to trigger lysosomal exocytosis. This boosted ferroptosis defense of AKT-hyperactivated cancer cells by reducing intracellular ferrous iron and enhancing membrane repair. Correlation analysis and functional analysis revealed that TRPML1-mediated ferroptosis resistance is a previously unrecognized feature of AKT-hyperactivated cancers and is necessary for AKT-driven tumorigenesis and cancer therapeutic resistance. TRPML1 inactivation or blockade of the interaction between TRPML1 and ARL8B inhibited AKT-driven tumorigenesis and cancer therapeutic resistance in vitro and in vivo by promoting ferroptosis. A synthetic peptide targeting TRPML1 inhibited AKT-driven tumorigenesis and enhanced the sensitivity of AKT-hyperactivated tumors to ferroptosis inducers, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy by boosting ferroptosis in vivo. Together, our findings identified TRPML1 as a therapeutic target in AKT-hyperactivated cancer.
The giant panda gut harbors a high diversity of lactic acid bacteria revealed by a novel culturomics pipeline
Authors: Zhang Wenping , Zheng Lijun , Xie Junjin , Su Xiaoyan , Zhang Mingchun , Huang He , Schmitz-Esser Stephan , Du Shizhang , Yang Yu , Xie Jiqin , Zhang Qinrong , Yu Shuran , Guo Qiang , Wang Hairui , Zhang Liang , Yang Kong , Hou Rong
Published: June 2024

Some lactic acid bacteria (LAB) can provide significant health benefits, which are critically important for the conservation of endangered animals, such as giant pandas. However, little is known about the diversity and culturability of LAB in the giant panda gut microbiota. To understand the roles of LAB in giant panda conservation, it is critical to culture bacterial strains of interest. In this study, we established a pipeline to culture bacterial strains using enrichment of target bacteria with different liquid media and growth conditions. Then, the strains were isolated in solid media to study their functions. Using 210 samples from the culture enrichment method and 138 culture-independent samples, we obtained 1120 amplicon sequencing variants (ASVs) belonging to
Lactobacillales
. Out of the 1120 ASVs, 812 ASVs from the culture enrichment approach were twofold more diverse than 336 ASVs from the culture-independent approach. Many ASVs of interest were not detected in the culture-independent approach. Using this pipeline, we isolated many relevant bacterial strains and established a giant panda gut bacteria strain collection that included strains with low-abundance in culture-independent samples and included most of the giant panda LAB described by other researchers. The strain collection consisted of 60 strains representing 35 species of 12 genera. Thus, our pipeline is powerful and provides guidance in culturing gut microbiota of interest in hosts such as the giant panda.

IMPORTANCE

Cultivation is necessary to screen strains to experimentally investigate microbial traits, and to confirm the activities of novel genes through functional characterization studies. In the long-term, such work can aid in the identification of potential health benefits conferred by bacteria and this could aid in the identification of bacterial candidate strains that can be applied as probiotics. In this study, we developed a pipeline with low-cost and user-friendly culture enrichment to reveal the diversity of LAB in giant pandas. We compared the difference between culture-independent and culture enrichment methods, screened strains of interest that produced high concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and we investigated the catalog of virulence factors, antibiotic resistance, butyrate and lactate synthesis genes of the strains at a genomic level. This study will provide guidance for microbiota cultivation and a foundation for future research aiming to understand the functions of specific strains.