bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altered Metabolism and DAM-signatures in Female Brains and Microglia with Aging
Authors: Cleland Nicholas R W , Potter Garrett J , Buck Courtney , Quang Daphne , Oldham Dean , Neal Mikaela , Saviola Anthony , Niemeyer Christy S. , Dobrinskikh Evgenia , Bruce Kimberley D.
Published: November 2023

Despite Alzheimer’s disease (AD) disproportionately affecting women, the mechanisms remain elusive. In AD, microglia undergo ‘metabolic reprogramming’, which contributes to microglial dysfunction and AD pathology. However, how sex and age contribute to metabolic reprogramming in microglia is understudied. Here, we use metabolic imaging, transcriptomics, and metabolic assays to probe age-and sex-associated changes in brain and microglial metabolism. Glycolytic and oxidative metabolism in the whole brain was determined using Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy (FLIM). Young female brains appeared less glycolytic than male brains, but with aging, the female brain became ‘male-like.’ Transcriptomic analysis revealed increased expression of disease-associated microglia (DAM) genes (e.g.,ApoE,Trem2,LPL), and genes involved in glycolysis and oxidative metabolism in microglia from aged females compared to males. To determine whether estrogen can alter the expression of these genes, BV-2 microglia-like cell lines, which abundantly express DAM genes, were supplemented with 17β-estradiol (E2). E2 supplementation resulted in reduced expression of DAM genes, reduced lipid and cholesterol transport, and substrate-dependent changes in glycolysis and oxidative metabolism. Consistent with the notion that E2 may suppress DAM-associated factors, LPL activity was elevated in the brains of aged female mice. Similarly, DAM gene and protein expression was higher in monocyte-derived microglia-like (MDMi) cells derived from middle-aged females compared to age-matched males and was responsive to E2 supplementation. FLIM analysis of MDMi from young and middle-aged females revealed reduced oxidative metabolism and FAD+ with age. Overall, our findings show that altered metabolism defines age-associated changes in female microglia and suggest that estrogen may inhibit the expression and activity of DAM-associated factors, which may contribute to increased AD risk, especially in post-menopausal women.
Context versus aiming in motor learning when both feedforward and feedback control processes are engaged
Authors: Crossley Matthew J. , Hewitson Christopher L. , Kaplan David M.
Published: November 2023

Theories of human motor learning commonly assume that movement plans are adjusted in response to the precision of sensory feedback received regarding their success. However, support for this assumption has mainly come from experiments that limit feedback correction during an ongoing movement. In contrast, we have recently shown that when this restriction is relaxed, and both within-movement and between-movement corrections can occur, movement plans undergo large and abrupt changes that are strongly correlated with the degree of sensory uncertainty present on the previous trial and are insensitive to the magnitude and direction of recently experienced movement errors. A class of models in which sensory uncertainty influences an aiming process with no retention from one trial to the next best accounted for these data. Here, we examine an alternative possibility that sensory uncertainty acts as a contextual cue to shunt motor learning and control to one of many context-specific internal models. Although both aiming and context models provide good fits for our data, the aiming model performed best.

Author summary

A large body of literature shows that sensory uncertainty inversely scales the degree of error-driven corrections made to motor plans from one trial to the next. However, by limiting sensory feedback to the endpoint of movements, these studies prevent corrections from taking place during the movement. We have recently shown that when such corrections are permitted, sensory uncertainty punctuates between-trial movement corrections with abrupt changes that closely track the degree of sensory uncertainty but are insensitive to the magnitude and direction of recently experienced movement error. Here, we ask whether this pattern of behaviour is more consistent with sensory uncertainty driving changes in an aiming process or context-specific motor learning.
Novel Missing Data Imputation Approaches Enhance Quantitative Trait Loci Discovery in Multi-Omics Analysis
Authors: Qi Zining , Pelletier Alexandre , Willwerscheid Jason , Cao Xuewei , Wen Xiao , Cruchaga Carlos , De Jager Philip , Julia TCW , Wang Gao
Published: November 2023

Handling missing values in multi-omics datasets is essential for a broad range of analyses. While several benchmarks for multi-omics data imputation methods have recommended certain approaches for practical applications, these recommendations are not widely adopted in real-world data analyses. Consequently, the practical reliability of these methods remains unclear. Furthermore, no existing benchmark has assessed the impact of missing data and imputation on molecular quantitative trait loci (xQTL) discoveries. To establish the best practice for xQTL analysis amidst missing values in multi-omics data, we have thoroughly benchmarked 16 imputation methods. This includes methods previously recommended and in use in the field, as well as two new approaches we developed by extending existing methods. Our analysis indicates that no established method consistently excels across all benchmarks; some can even result in significant false positives in xQTL analysis. However, our extension to a recent Bayesian matrix factorization method,FLASH, exhibits superior performance in multi-omics data imputation across various scenarios. Notably, it is both powerful and well-calibrated for xQTL discovery compared to all the other methods. To support researchers in practically implementing our approach, we have integrated our extension toFLASHinto the R package flashier, accessible athttps://github.com/willwerscheid/flashier. Additionally, we provide a bioinformatics pipeline that implementsFLASHand other methods compatible with xQTL discovery workflows based on tensorQTL, available athttps://cumc.github.io/xqtl-pipeline/code/data_preprocessing/phenotype/phenotype_imputation.html.
Characteristics of Accidental Falls in the Patients with Chronic Kidney Diseases: A 14-Year Retrospective Study and Review
Authors: Liao Yumei , Zhang Li , Peng Yanmei , Huang Huie , Luo Yuanchang , Gan Jinling , Dong Lina , He Yan , Gao Min , Yang Guang
Published: November 2023

Background

Accidental falls pose a high-risk that should not be overlooked in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), as they can result in significant injury or even fatality. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of CKD patients with fall injuries during hospitalization, discuss potential mechanisms, and to provide an overview of existing prevention methods.

Methods

Falls of all patients in our Nephrology ward from 2009 to 2022 were recorded and counted. 48 patients were enrolled. Patient characteristics, injury distribution, cause of fall injury, relevant blood biochemical indicators, and recovery conditions were counted.

Results

There were 22,053 hospitalized patients during the study period, with a fall rate of approximately 0.218%. Patients are prone to involuntary falls due to muscle weakness and confusion during nighttime and early morning activities. Injuries are mainly to the head and there is a risk of serious injury and fracture. CKD is associated with anemia, hypertension, water-electrolytes imbalance and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Blood tests showed that patients commonly had anemia, malnutrition, low immunity, as well as abnormal muscle and neuromodulatory ion levels, such as low calcium, low potassium and high phosphorus. Moreover, Patients usually have low blood pressure control ability.

Conclusion

Long-term CKD may lead to subjective dysfunction and motor dysfunction by inducing anemia, malnutrition, water-electrolytes imbalance, and blood pressure control ability, thus making patients prone to falls. This study has important implications for hospital ward safety management and fall prevention in CKD patients.
Heme’s relevance genuine? Re-visiting the roles of TANGO2 homologs including HRG-9 and HRG-10 inC. elegans
Authors: Sandkuhler Sarah E. , Youngs Kayla S. , Owlett Laura , Bandora Monica B. , Naaz Aaliya , Kim Euri S. , Wang Lili , Wojtovich Andrew P. , Gupta Vandana A. , Sacher Michael , Mackenzie Samuel J.
Published: November 2023

Mutations in theTANGO2gene cause severe illness in humans, including life-threatening metabolic crises. However, the function of TANGO2 protein remains unknown. UsingCaenorhabditis elegansand other models, it has recently been proposed that TANGO2 transports heme within and between cells, from areas with high heme concentrations to those with lower concentrations. Here, we demonstrate that heme-related observations in nematodes may be better explained by a previously unreported metabolic phenotype in these worms, characterized by reduced feeding, decreased lifespan and brood sizes, and poor motility. We also show that several genes not implicated in heme transport are upregulated in the low heme state and conversely demonstrate thathrg-9in particular is highly responsive to oxidative stress, independent of heme status. Collectively, these data implicate bioenergetic failure and oxidative stress as key factors in the pathophysiology of TANGO2 deficiency, in alignment with observations from human patients. Our group performed several experiments in yeast and zebrafish deficient in TANGO2 homologs and was unable to replicate prior findings from these models. Overall, we believe there is insufficient evidence to support heme transport as the primary function for TANGO2.
Single-cell transcriptome analysis of the early immune response in the lymph nodes ofBorrelia burgdorferi-infected mice
Authors: Rinne Varpu , Gröndahl-Yli-Hannuksela Kirsi , Fair-Mäkelä Ruth , Salmi Marko , Rantakari Pia , Lönnberg Tapio , Alinikula Jukka , Pietikäinen Annukka , Hytönen Jukka
Published: November 2023

Lyme borreliosis is a disease caused byBorrelia burgdorferisensu lato bacteria.Borrelia burgdorferiis known to induce prolonged extrafollicular immune responses and abnormal germinal center formation. However, the mechanism behind this is poorly understood. The extrafollicular response is characterized by strong plasmablast induction and by an IgM, IgG3, and IgG2b dominant antibody production. These antibodies do not generate a neutralizing type of immunity, and the bacteria eventually establish a persistent infection. Here, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing to characterize the immune landscape of lymph node lymphocytes in the earlyBorrelia burgdorferiinfection in a murine model.

Our results indicate that four days afterBorrelia burgdorferiinfection, a notable B cell proliferation, immunoglobulin class switching to IgG3 and IgG2b isotypes, and plasma cell differentiation are induced, all of which are hallmarks of the extrafollicular immune response. In addition, we found infection-derived upregulation of suppressor of cytokine signalling genesSocs1andSocs3,and downregulation of genes involved in MHC II antigen presentation in B cells.

Our results support the central role of B cells in the immune response of aBorrelia burgdorferiinfection, and provide cues of mechanisms behind the determination between extrafollicular and germinal center responses duringBorrelia burgdorferiinfection.
Dissecting Key Multivalent Processes in Glycosidase Inhibition: Insights from Thermodynamic Modelling and Atomistic Simulations
Authors: Spichty Martin , Liang Yan , Schettini Rosaria , Izzo Irene , Bodlenner Anne , Compain Philippe
Published: November 2023

Multivalency represents a powerful approach to increase the inhibition potency of moderate glycosidase inhibitors. Regarding the key role of catalytic glycoside hydrolysis in biology, understanding the molecular mechanisms and origin of the multivalent inhibitory effect is of great interest and presents a fascinating playground for theoretical studies. Our teams have recently dissected key processes of multivalent glycosidase inhibition through the use of different neoglycoclusters based on deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) inhitopes and a cyclopeptoid scaffold. This companion article details the theoretical aspects of this former study. A thermodynamic model is developed and validated, compared to literature, and extended to account for particularities of the charged DNJ inhitopes.
Distinct dynamics and proximity networks of hub proteins at the prey-invading cell pole in a predatory bacterium
Authors: Remy Ophélie , Santin Yoann , Jonckheere Veronique , Tesseur Coralie , Kaljević Jovana , Damme Petra Van , Laloux Géraldine
Published: November 2023

In bacteria, cell poles function as subcellular compartments where proteins localize during specific lifecycle stages, orchestrated by polar “hub” proteins. Whereas most described bacteria inherit an “old” pole from the mother cell and a “new” pole from cell division, polarizing cells at birth, non-binary division poses challenges for establishing cell polarity, particularly for daughter cells inheriting only new poles. We investigated polarity dynamics in the obligate predatory bacteriumBdellovibrio bacteriovorus, proliferating through filamentous growth followed by non-binary division within prey bacteria. Monitoring the subcellular localization of two proteins known as polar hubs in other species, RomR and DivIVA, revealed RomR as an early polarity marker inB. bacteriovorus. RomR already marks the future anterior poles of the progeny during the predator’s growth phase, in a define time window closely following the onset of divisome assembly and the end of chromosome segregation. In contrast to RomR’s stable unipolar localization in the progeny, DivIVA exhibits a dynamic pole-to-pole localization. This behaviour changes shortly before division of the elongated predator cell, where DivIVA accumulates at all septa and both poles.In vivoprotein interaction networks for DivIVA and RomR, mapped through endogenous miniTurbo-based proximity labeling, further underscore their distinct roles in cell polarization and the importance of the anterior “invasive” cell pole in prey-predator interactions. Our work emphasizes the strict spatiotemporal coordination of cellular processes underlyingB. bacteriovorusproliferation, offering insights into the subcellular organization of bacteria with filamentous growth and non-binary division.
PP2A-B55α,δ phosphatase counteracts Ki67-dependent chromosome individualization during mitosis
Authors: Sanz-Flores María , Ruiz-Torres Miguel , Aguirre-Portolés Cristina , Bakkali Aicha El , Salvador-Barberó Beatriz , Villarroya-Beltri Carolina , Ortega Sagrario , Megías Diego , Gerlich Daniel W. , Álvarez-Fernández Mónica , Malumbres Marcos
Published: November 2023

Cell cycle progression is regulated by the orderly balance between kinase and phosphatase activities. PP2A phosphatase holoenzymes containing the B55 family of regulatory B subunits (PP2A-B55) function as major CDK1-counteracting phosphatases during mitotic exit in mammals. However, the identification of the specific mitotic roles of these PP2A-B55 complexes has been hindered by the existence of multiple B55 isoforms. Here, through the generation of loss-of-function genetic mouse models for the two ubiquitous B55 isoforms (B55α and B55δ), we report that PP2A-B55 α/δ complexes display overlapping roles in controlling the dynamics of proper chromosome individualization and clustering during mitosis. In the absence of PP2A-B55α/δ activity, mitotic cells display increased chromosome individualization in the presence of enhanced phosphorylation and perichromosomal loading of Ki-67. These data provide experimental evidence for a new regulatory mechanism by which the balance between kinase and PP2A-B55 phosphatase activity controls the Ki-67-mediated spatial organization of the mass of chromosomes during mitosis.
Cohesin chromatin loop formation by an extrinsic motor
Authors: Guérin Thomas M. , Barrington Christopher , Pobegalov Georgii , Molodtsov Maxim I. , Uhlmann Frank
Published: November 2023

The ring-shaped cohesin complex topologically entraps two DNAs to establish sister chromatid cohesion1–3. Cohesin also shapes the interphase chromatin landscape with wide-ranging implications for gene regulation4–7, which cohesin is thought to achieve by actively extruding DNA loops without topologically entrapping DNA8–11. The ‘loop extrusion’ hypothesis finds motivation fromin vitroobservations12–14– whether this process underliesin vivochromatin loop formation remains untested. Here, using the budding yeastS. cerevisiae, we generate cohesin variants that have lost their ability to extrude DNA loops but retain their ability to topologically entrap DNA. Analysis of these variants suggests thatin vivochromatin loops form independently of loop extrusion. Instead, we find that transcription promotes loop formation, as well as acts as an extrinsic motor that expands these loops and defines their ultimate positions. Our results necessitate a re-evaluation of the loop extrusion model and point to an alternative mechanism for cohesin-dependent chromatin organisation. We propose that cohesin, akin to sister chromatid cohesion establishment at replication forks, forms chromatin loops by DNA-DNA capture at places of transcription, thus unifying cohesin’s two roles in chromosome segregation and interphase genome organisation.
BNIP3 as a new tool to promote healthy brain aging
Authors: Neikirk Kit , Marshall Andrea G. , Santisteban Monica M. , Hinton Antentor
Published: November 2023

The article “Neuronal induction of BNIP3‐mediated mitophagy slows systemic aging in Drosophila” reveals BCL2‐interacting protein 3 as a therapeutic target to counteract brain aging and prolong overall organismal health with age. In this spotlight, we consider the roles of BNIP3, a mitochondrial outer membrane protein, in the adult nervous system, including its induction of mitophagy and prevention of dysfunctional mitochondria in the aged brain. Implications for other tissue types to reduce the burden of aging are further considered.
The gender composition of the members of the editorial board of toxicology journals: Assessment of gender equality
Authors: Hancı Volkan , Yakar Mehmet Nuri , Shermatov Nurgazy , Kara Fevzi , İbişoğlu Emel , Oltulu Merve , Köşker Rıza Kaan , Bilge Duygu , Geylani Batuhan
Published: November 2023

In many areas of medicine, gender equality has not yet been fully adopted despite recent developments. The inequality of gender in various areas of medicine is still debated. In this study, we analysed the gender composition of the editorial boards of toxicology journals in the Science Citation Index‐Expanded (SCI‐E) databases and the factors affecting this composition.

The genders of the participants were determined by the data obtained from the official websites of the journals in September 2023. We analysed the journal metrics and publisher properties using Mann–Whitney U, Fisher's exact, Chi‐square tests and Spearman's correlation coefficient. We used logistic regression analysis to reveal the independent factors related to gender parity. The representation rates of women were 28.62% on all editorial boards and 23.33% in editor‐in‐chief positions. The ‘Neuroscience’ (OR, 2.46 95%CI, 1.68–3.60, p < 0.001), ‘Reproductive Biology’(OR, 2.05 95%CI, 1.22–3.42, p = 0.006) and ‘Public, Environmental & Occupational Health’(OR, 1.49 95%CI, 1.18–1.88, p = 0.001) as a coverage category, the United States as a journal country (OR, 1.21, 95%CI, 1.04–1.40, p = 0.001), 5‐year‐IF≥3.6(OR, 1.54, 95%CI, 1.27–1.86, p < 0.001), 5‐year H index≥29 (OR, 1.23, 95%CI, 1.01–1.49, p = 0.037) were the independent factors for gender parity. However, ‘Oncology’ (OR, 0.08 95%CI, 0.01–0.55, p = 0.011), ‘Biochemistry, Molecular Biology’ (OR, 0.62 95%CI, 0.44–0.86, p = 0.005) and ‘Pharmacology & Pharmacy’ (OR, 0.69 95%CI, 0.59–0.82, p < 0.001) as a coverage category, Japan as a publisher country (OR, 0.52 95%CI, 0.35–0.77, p = 0.001), and Switzerland as a journal country (OR, 0.61, 95%CI, 0.46–0.81, p = 0.001) were related to gender disparity. Greater endeavours are needed to reduce gender discrimination in toxicology. Toxicology authorities should continuously improve existing policies by optimising the analysis of objective information to eliminate barriers for toxicologists in terms of gender equality.
The use of prednisolone during Ramadan fasting in patients with adrenal insufficiency
Authors: Hee Nicholas Ken Yoong , Lim Quan Hziung , Paramasivam Sharmila , Lim Lee Ling , Vethakkan Shireene , Ganapathy Shubash Shander , Ratnasingam Jeyakantha
Published: November 2023

Objective

Once daily prednisolone taken at predawn has been proposed to be the glucocorticoid replacement of choice in patients with adrenal insufficiency (AI) who intend to fast for the month of Ramadan. However, the effects of prednisolone on metabolic parameters and quality of life during fasting for Ramadan are unknown.

Design, Patients and Measurements

Patients with AI on twice‐daily hydrocortisone, who had low or moderate risk and intended to fast, were recruited. Patients were converted to prednisolone 5 mg once daily taken at sahur (predawn) and Ramadan education given. Weight, sleep duration, biochemical parameters and quality of life measures (SF‐36 questionnaire) were analysed at the end of Ramadan and compared against baseline.

Results

Twenty patients (13 men) were recruited, with a mean age of 59.9 ± 15.0 years. All patients were on hydrocortisone 15 mg daily (in divided doses) as pre‐Ramadan glucocorticoid replacement. Half had type 2 diabetes with low IDF‐DAR risk. Eighty‐five percent of patients completed the full 29 days of fasting with no complications. There was a significant reduction in weight (−1.1 ± 1.6 kg, p = .005), with no significant change in blood pressure or sleep duration. There was a significant increase in urea (0.80 ± 1.1 mmol/L, p = .005) and haematocrit, (0.011 ± 0.019 L/L, p = .019) and decrease in serum sodium (−1.6 ± 3.0 mmol/L, p = .028), with no change in serum creatinine or liver function. Quality of life measures were preserved in all domains with significant improvement in role limitation due to physical health (15.3 ± 21.6, p = .005) and bodily pain (8.8 ± 16.3, p = .031).

Conclusions

This study has demonstrated that converting patients with AI who are fasting for Ramadan from twice‐daily hydrocortisone to prednisolone 5 mg daily at sahur was safe, with no major short‐term adverse effects. Despite the higher equivalent glucocorticoid doses, patients experienced weight loss and no clinically significant change in blood pressure, sleep, biochemical parameters or quality of life. This study paves the way to trial even lower doses of prednisolone once daily in patients fasting for Ramadan with AI.
Reimaging activism to save the planet: Using transdisciplinary and participatory methodologies to support collective youth action
Authors: Jones Lisa , Parsons Katie J. , Halstead Florence , Wolstenholme Joshua M.
Published: November 2023

This article offers new insights into the important role that transdisciplinary, participatory action research approaches offer young people as a safe space to ‘act’ on climate change and environmental degradation. Drawing upon methodological meta‐reflections on three separate, but interlinked, projects (two UK‐based, one in Vietnam), we highlight an evolving approach that fuses knowledge, local context and emotional connection to engage action. We argue that these innovative approaches facilitate the empowerment of young people to co‐create and lead solutions, adaptations and mitigations that can make a significant impact on the climate and biodiversity crises whilst influencing policymakers and inspiring collaborative change‐making.
Telemedicine during the COVID‐19 epidemic improves outcomes in children with tuberous sclerosis complex: A 1206 visits retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Xia , Wang Ji , Du Xiaonan , Yu Lifei , Zhou Yuanfeng , Zhou Shuizhen , Wang Yi , Ding Yifeng
Published: November 2023

Aims

To evaluate the benefits of telemedicine in children with tuberous sclerosis complex during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted, comparing telemedicine and in‐person visits within the timeframe spanning from June 1, 2021, to June 1, 2022. Disparities in demographics, emergency visits, hospitalizations, adverse effects (AEs) associated with sirolimus, and the incidence of drug‐refractory epilepsy (DRE) between telehealth and in‐person care were assessed. Additionally, distinctions between audio and video telehealth, as well as varying frequencies of telehealth encounters, were investigated and reported as odds ratios (ORs).

Results

A total of 378 patients with 1206 visits were included, of which 137 were telemedicine patients and 241 were in‐person patients. The median age was 5.0 years (IQR 2.8–10.0 years). There were 197 males (52.12%), 691 in‐person visits (57.30%), and 515 telemedicine visits (42.70%). Children under 12 years old, those farther away from the center, mothers with more than 12 years of education, and children treated with sirolimus were more likely to visit via telemedicine. Telehealth was associated with significantly fewer emergency visits, hospitalizations, AEs of sirolimus, and DRE. With 10 or more visits, the incidence of emergency visits, hospitalization, and DRE was significantly reduced.

Conclusion

Telemedicine visits are almost as close in number as in‐person visits. Younger patients, patients in remote areas, and mothers with higher education levels are more willing to complete telemedicine visits. Telemedicine visits were associated with a significantly lower number of emergency visits, hospitalizations, and AEs of sirolimus. Patients with more than 10 visits per year seemed to have better clinical outcomes.
Maintaining traditional values and looking for novel uses assure equines' survival as a species
Authors: Desta Takele Taye
Published: November 2023

Background

Routine tasks performed by equids have been taken over by motorised transportation and agricultural mechanisation services, and both are rapidly expanding in developing nations. For instance, in developing nations, the length of all‐season roads annually has increased by 0.2% and the number of vehicles by 15% to 17%. Consequently, rural agriculture no longer regularly recruits equines.

Objectives

Strategies need to be developed to safeguard the use values of equids to guarantee their crucial role in the daily lives of rural people.

Study design

The report has compiled the findings of field‐based exploratory qualitative study.

Methods

This study involved in‐depth interviews of 10 knowledgeable informants and analysed FAOSTAT historical dataset to assess the population status of equids.

Results

To encourage people to use equids for companionship and recreational purposes, the hobbies of equine farming need to be promoted in both urban and rural areas. Equestrian riding and racing can be beneficial for festivals and sociocultural events, like weddings, funerals and competitions. It is illogical to disregard the transportation, ploughing and crop harvesting roles of equids. It is worthwhile to include donkeys and mules in the well‐established sports of horseracing and riding. Bovines can produce high‐quality carcasses when equids are used as work animals. Equine manure is rich in nutrients compared with ruminant manure. Equid meat is occasionally consumed and exported. Equid hides can be used to produce leather goods and parchments. It is essential to investigate the medicinal value of equine products. By clipping hair from horses' tails and manes, handicraft people can make whiskers and cords of musical instruments. Equids are highly sought‐after in landscape management and scientific studies. In rangelands, horses can assist in monitoring grazing and browsing livestock. In open urban public spaces and rural areas, equines can graze on communal grazing lands as stray animals and a population of feral animals may eventually emerge.

Main limitations

This is an exploratory qualitative study and it needs to be supported by extensive studies involving formal surveys.

Conclusion

To ensure the continued existence of equids, it is worthwhile to explore the derived use values, enhance the existing ones and alleviate their major production constraints.
Reflections from the ‘Hold the door open’ project: Inviting older adults across the UK to shape dissemination of health research findings
Authors: Silvonen Taru , McGrath Carmel , Murray Anne , Christensen Hannah
Published: November 2023

Background

This project sought to expand patient and public involvement (PPI) practices to the development of research finding dissemination with people aged 55+ years. The project is innovative due to its UK‐wide approach and use of PPI to plan better ways to share findings of health research with older adults, extending PPI beyond research project initiation to support dissemination activities.

Objective

The aim of this study is to understand how to develop effective public engagement activities with older adults to disseminate findings of health research. We hope to promote greater inclusivity and advance our understanding of this demographic.

Methods

This project combined three approaches: (i) an online questionnaire to ask what activities older adults enjoy; (ii) online planning workshops seeking public contributors' input in event planning and (iii) community events to share research findings and raise awareness of PPI. Activities were carried out in Cardiff, Belfast, Glasgow and Tewkesbury.

Results

The planning workshops clarified that in‐person activities and offering options for activities were important. Based on feedback from our contributors, all our events focused around a talk and question and answer session. Other short activities included light exercise and a writing activity.

Discussion

Our multiphase approach helped us develop informative activities that reflected the questionnaire results and the feedback from the workshops, as we tailored our events to each location. A phased approach allowed both researchers and contributors to gradually deepen their understanding.

Conclusion

Further awareness raising is needed to develop the role older adults currently hold in health research activities. Working closely with existing communities can help broaden diversity.

Patient or Public Contribution

Thirty‐three public contributors helped facilitate this project. Two of these also contributed to this article by writing a reflection of their experiences, one of whom also provided feedback for the article.
Motivators and barriers for rural community preceptors in teaching: A qualitative study
Authors: Alexandraki Irene , Kern Anne , Beck Dallaghan Gary L. , Baker Russell , Seegmiller Jeffrey
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Increasing challenges in recruiting and retaining community‐based teaching physicians (e.g., community preceptors) call for a better understanding of motivators and barriers community preceptors perceive in their teaching role. Given the importance of medical school partnerships with community‐based sites for student training, it is essential to understand the perspectives of community preceptors as teaching physicians in a context away from the medical school, such as rural, and the factors affecting their career choice to engage in teaching while practising medicine.

Methods

We conducted semi‐structured interviews with rural community preceptors and used open coding to conceptualise data and axial coding to connect codes into categories. We used the socio‐cognitive career theory framework to organise categories into themes.

Results

Eleven rural community preceptors from two medical schools participated. Specialties included family medicine, internal medicine and paediatrics; clinical practice and teaching experience ranged from 3–36 and 2–29 years, respectively. Readiness for teaching (‘self‐efficacy’) was pivotal in community preceptors' decision to teach and derived largely from vicarious learning from teaching attendings in medical school or residency; social persuasion and encouragement from clinical partners; and their accomplishments as practising physicians. However, limited faculty development, incomplete knowledge of expectations, disengagement from the medical school and lack of current mentors hindered their self‐confidence. Teaching fulfilled their aspirations (‘outcome expectations’) to give back to the profession, but they felt undervalued and disconnected from other clinician educators. Teaching increased job satisfaction, but clinical workload, and financial impact impeded their goals for achieving excellence (‘performance’).

Conclusions

Self‐efficacy was a pivotal motivator in rural community preceptors' decision to teach. Role models from early training inspired them to teach. Internal awards sustained teaching efforts. Future research should explore structural barriers influencing rural community preceptors' teaching experiences to better support their career choice to become medical educators.
Flipping the Power Dynamics in Measurement and Evaluation: International Aid and the Potential for a Grounded Accountability Model
Authors: Urwin Eliza , Botoeva Aisalkyn , Arias Rosario , Vargas Oscar , Firchow Pamina
Published: November 2023

This article addresses the overlooked barrier of accountability in the localization of international aid and development. It argues that the conventional monitoring and evaluation (M&E) practices, designed to satisfy donor accountability, hinder genuine localization in conflict‐affected settings. The authors emphasize the need for a shift in knowledge creation within M&E processes, advocating for more inclusive and flexible structures that value and incorporate the insights and experiences of local communities. By examining the limitations of traditional M&E methodologies, the article proposes the adoption of feasible strategies that allow donors to report effectively to their constituents while enabling grantees to engage program participants and local communities more meaningfully. The concept of the Grounded Accountability Model (GAM) is introduced as a framework that co‐constructs accountability between external groups supporting international efforts and the communities participating in aid projects. Drawing inspiration from activist roots in the peacebuilding field, the article explores how GAM can be operationalized at different organizational levels, showcasing its versatility and potential for broader implementation. The study presents two case studies, Asociación MINGA and Search for Common Ground, to illustrate the adaptability and application of GAM in diverse organizational structures and goals. By promoting a more nuanced understanding of projects supported by international aid, GAM offers a pathway to enhance localization, improve program effectiveness, and maintain accountability to both donors and local communities.
Trentepohlia brevicellulis comb. et stat. nov. (Trentepohliaceae, Ulvophyceae) found in Japan
Authors: Handa Shinji , Nakahara‐Tsubota Miho , Shoda Izumi , Mizobuchi Aya , Nakano Taketo , Tsubota Hiromi
Published: November 2023

The family Trentepohliaceae contains many common aerial algae, most widely distributed, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Eight species of the genus Trentepohlia have been reported in Japan. We report another taxon, Trentepohlia brevicellulis (Cribb) S. Handa and H. Tsubota comb. et stat. nov., growing on bark in western Honshu, Japan. This alga was previously described as Trentepohlia bosseae var. brevicellulis Cribb. However, the relationship between the bosseae and brevicellulis varieties of T. bosseae could not be ascertained owing to the lack of genetic information for brevicellulis. Therefore, we aimed to examine the detailed morphological characteristics of brevicellulis in wild samples and cultured strains and to review the taxonomy, including systematic information obtained by genetic analysis. Its phylogenetic position was resolved based on 18S rDNA sequence data. It differs from T. bosseae and its variety samoensis in exhibiting a warty zoosporangium surface, an unthickened septum with no central pit field, and a non‐rusty‐brown cell wall. The four key characteristics of T. brevicellulis include a warty layer on the inner surface of the non‐bent side of the suffultory cell wall, an ostiole located near the base of the zoosporangium, curved tapering filaments with thickened cell walls, and globular vegetative spores in the basal portion of the filament. Transmission electron microscopy revealed a pit field wherein simple plasmodesmata were present in the septum. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that this alga and T. bosseae form distinct clades and that T. brevicellulis is separate from T. bosseae. Thus, our study helped redefine the accurate taxonomic position of the species under study as Trentepohlia brevicellulis (Cribb) S. Handa and H. Tsubota comb. et stat. nov., a clade distinct from T. bosseae and reported for the first time in Japan.
Integrating irrational behavior into flood risk models to test the outcomes of policy interventions
Authors: Geaves Linda , Hall Jim , Penning‐Rowsell OBE Edmund
Published: November 2023

Householders are increasingly responsible for managing residual flood risk at property level. Yet, consumers are observed to adopt irrational behaviors under scenarios of risk, often making suboptimal decisions. Therefore, the question is raised, if householders are required to manage flood risk at household level, how can this be made fair and efficient? Policy instruments often incorporate “fairness” by subsidizing the costs of mitigation options, assuming a linear relationship between available finances and the uptake of risk mitigation measures. To integrate behavior into the assessment of policy instruments, this article develops a method to compare the uptake of flood mitigation between agents following models of Expected Monetary Value (EMV) and Prospect Theory (PT). An agent‐based model is created, offering the option to apply either EMV or PT frameworks. EMV represents a rational gamble, determining whether an agent “should” invest in insurance or property‐level protection. On the other hand, the PT option incorporates behavioral aspects to examine how agents are likely to respond to investment decisions in flood risk environments. The models are applied to Flood Re, a policy aimed at ensuring affordable insurance access for all individuals in flood risk areas. The results demonstrate that PT models exhibit greater similarity to observed behavior compared to models based on EMV. These findings emphasize the importance of accommodating “irrational” behaviors within the design of policy instruments, promoting fairness and efficiency. Overall, this research provides insights into the integration of behavior in policy assessments and highlights the benefits of considering PT frameworks alongside traditional rational models. By understanding and accounting for human behavior in decision‐making processes, policymakers can design more effective and equitable policy instruments for managing flood risk.
Information avoidance and testing for COVID‐19
Authors: Kerner Liz , Yusuf Aisha , Dettra Katherine , Carter Paige , Alonso Frances , Shepperd James A.
Published: November 2023

To limit the spread of the COVID‐19 virus, many employers and institutions developed procedures for people who tested positive. We propose that these procedures may have dissuaded people from testing. In a sample of 1142 participants (452 university students, 690 non‐students) we examined the decision to test for COVID‐19. More than 30% of our sample opted to forego testing for COVID‐19 despite having symptoms. Participants most frequently endorsed practical reasons for their decision (e.g., did not believe they had COVID‐19, felt their symptoms were too mild to warrant testing). However, further analysis revealed that the cost of testing strongly predicted their choice. Such costs included losing income, having to move from one's residence, and among students, losing access to a meal plan. The findings suggest efforts to control the spread of COVID‐19 can include costs that discourage people from testing.
Long‐term effect of oral cannabidiol administration to healthy adult dogs on tear production, intraocular pressure, and tear concentrations
Authors: Jost Haley E. , Spitznagel Katya , Alvarenga Isabella Corsato , Peraza Jaqueline , Banks Krista , McGrath Stephanie , de Linde Henriksen Michala
Published: November 2023

Objective

To determine the chronic effects of oral cannabidiol (CBD) use on tear production, intraocular pressure (IOP), and concentration of CBD in tears of healthy dogs.

Animals Studied

Eighteen healthy research Beagles.

Procedures

This was a masked, placebo‐controlled, randomized prospective study. Eighteen dogs were randomly assigned to three groups (six dogs per group) based on daily dosage of oral MCT oil (placebo), CBD 5 mg/kg, and CBD 10 mg/kg. Schirmer tear test (STT‐1) and IOP were measured twice daily (7 am and 7 pm) every 4 weeks for 36 weeks. Week 36 tears were collected and analyzed for CBD concentrations (ng/mL) using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. A mixed linear model was used as the statistical method and p‐value <.05 was considered significant.

Results

No significant differences were found between placebo vs. 5 mg/kg vs. 10 mg/kg for STT‐1 or IOP (AM and PM). CBD was detected in 10 out of 11 (91%) viable tear samples receiving 5 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg dosages. One sample in the 5 mg/kg group had inadequate tear volume for analysis. The CBD concentration in tears was at or below the lower limit of quantification in placebo group, 4.12–11.2 ng/mL for the 5 mg/kg group, and 6.22–152 ng/mL for the 10 mg/kg group.

Conclusions

Long‐term administration of oral CBD in healthy research beagles demonstrates a favorable safety profile regarding ocular tolerability. Oral CBD administration does not appear to affect tear production or IOP over a 36‐week period. This is the first canine study positively identifying concentrations of CBD in tears following oral administration.
Analysis of Derivative Free Rational Scheme
Authors: Nkatse Thuso Emang
Published: November 2023

In this research paper we present analysis of the derivative free rational one step scheme for solving Initial Value problems of first order Ordinary differential Equations (ODEs). The scheme shows to be consistent and stability property resembles of the trapezoidal method, which is A-stable. This method has been applied to problems with singularities and the one which are considered to be stiff.Numerical results show that the scheme is suitable for solving both stiff problems and the one whose solutions possesses singularities.
Harmonic starlike functions with respect to symmetric points
Authors: Al Amoush Adnan G. , Darus Maslina
Published: November 2023

Here a new class of complex-valued harmonic functions with respect to symmetric points is introduced. Coefficient bounds, distortion and various properties are obtained.
Solution of fuzzy fractional differential equations using homotopy analysis method
Authors: Lee Meng Oon , Kumaresan N. , Ratnavelu Kuru
Published: November 2023

This paper presents an efficient analytical solution for fuzzy fractional differential equations (FDEs) using homotopy analysis method. HAM is the generalization of various methods like homotopy perturbation method and Adomian decomposition method. The main advantage is its rapid convergence to the solution without using perturbation or restrictive assumptions. Illustrative numerical example are presented for the proposed method.
Comparison of chemosensilla in three phytoseiid mites with different feeding habits
Authors: Su Yaozong , Wei Jiaxing , Zhang Bo , Xu Xuenong
Published: November 2023

Phytoseiidae comprised over 2000 described species with different feeding habits. However, the mechanisms of food selection were virtually unknown in most phytoseiid mites. To explore the potential mechanism of odor perception, we compared the type and number of chemosensilla on the tarsi of legs and pedipalps by scanning and transmission electron microscopy in three representative predatory mites, i.e., Phytoseiulus persimilis (specialized predator of Tetranychus), Neoseiulus californicus (selective predator of tetranychid mites), and Amblyseius swirskii (generalist predator). All three species had two types of putatively olfactory sensilla, with a porous vs. grooved surface on the tip of the first pair of legs. Of these, five porous setae were found in each of the three species of predatory mites studied. However, only one grooved seta was found at the tip of the first pair of legs in P. persimilis, and two in A. swirskii and N. californicus. In addition, the pedipalp has nine grooved setae, which were hypothesized to be contact chemosensilla in each of the three species. No porous setae were found on either pedipalp or the other three pairs of legs, i.e., leg II, III and IV. Additionally, we provided a new chaetotactic notation for the tarsus of leg I by considering the type and number of setae based on our observation of the three species of Phytoseiidae studied.
State dependence of CO
2
forcing and its implications for climate sensitivity
Authors: He Haozhe , Kramer Ryan J. , Soden Brian J. , Jeevanjee Nadir
Published: November 2023

When evaluating the effect of carbon dioxide (CO
2
) changes on Earth’s climate, it is widely assumed that instantaneous radiative forcing from a doubling of a given CO
2
concentration (IRF
2×CO2
) is constant and that variances in climate sensitivity arise from differences in radiative feedbacks or dependence of these feedbacks on the climatological base state. Here, we show that the IRF
2×CO2
is not constant, but rather depends on the climatological base state, increasing by about 25% for every doubling of CO
2
, and has increased by about 10% since the preindustrial era primarily due to the cooling within the upper stratosphere, implying a proportionate increase in climate sensitivity. This base-state dependence also explains about half of the intermodel spread in IRF
2×CO2
, a problem that has persisted among climate models for nearly three decades.
Filming DNA repair at the atomic level
Authors: Vos Marten H.
Published: November 2023

Dissection of multistep catalysis by a photoenzyme could inspire green chemistry applications
Supplemental Material: U-Pb geochronology and petrography of Neoproterozoic to early Cambrian volcanic rocks in basement crustal terranes beneath the deep-water Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Mallis Jillian D. , al. et
Published: November 2023

Contains information on EMPA analytical conditions and tabulated data of previously published geochemical analysis of samples referenced in text.
Immune Privileges as a Result of Mutual Regulation of Immune and Stem Systems
Authors: Karpenko Dmitriy V.
Published: November 2023

Immune privileges of cancer stem cells is a well-known and widely studied problem, as presence of such cells in tumors is associated with refractoriness, recurrence, and metastasis. Accumulating evidence also suggests presence of immune privileges in non-pathological stem cells in addition to their other defense mechanisms against damaging factors. This similarity between pathological and normal stem cells raises the question of why stem cells have such a potentially dangerous property. Regulation of vital processes of autoimmunity control and regeneration realized through interactions between immune cells, stem cells, and their microenvironment are reviewed in this work as causes of formation of the stem cell immune privilege. Deep mutual integration between regulations of stem and immune cells is noted. Considering diversity and complexity of mutual regulation of stem cells, their microenvironment, and immune system, I suggest the term “stem system”.