bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Illegal rural enterprise – developing a framework to help identify and investigate shadow infrastructures and illicit criminal networks
Authors: Smith Robert , McElwee Gerard
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study builds on the extant research of the authors on illegal rural enterprise (IRE). However, instead of taking a single or micro case approach within specific sections of the farming and food industries we examine the concept holistically from a macro case perspective. Many IRE crimes simply could not be committed without insider knowledge and complicity, making it essential to appreciate this when researching or investigating such crimes.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from published studies, we introduce the theoretical concept of “Shadow infrastructure” to analyse and explain the prevalence and endurance of such criminal enterprises. Using a multiple case approach, we examine data across the cases to provide an analysis of several industry wide crimes—the illicit halal meat trade; the theft of sheep; the theft of tractors and plant; and the supply of illicit veterinary medicines.

Findings

We examine IRE crimes across various sectors to identify commonalities in practice and in relation to business models drawing from a multidisciplinary literature spanning business and criminology. Such enterprises can be are inter-linked. We also provide suggestions on investigating such structures.

Practical implications

We identify academic and practical implications in relation to the investigation of IRE crime and from an academic perspective in relation to researching the phenomenon.

Originality/value

This study combines data from numerous individual studies from a macro perspective to provide practical solutions to a multifaceted problem.
Research on intelligent identification algorithm of coal and rock strata based on Hilbert transform and amplitude stacking
Authors: Zhu Pengqiao , Xu Xianlei , Peng Suping , Ma Zheng
Published: February 2024

The high precision identification of coal–rock layers is a significant challenge in intelligent mining. There is a large amount of electromagnetic noise and metal reflector signals in the full space detection environment of mining roadway, which makes it hard to distinguish the reflected waves at interface from a set of echo signals generated by the interface due to the similar amplitudes among them. So the method of identifying layers solely based on amplitude characteristics has poor stability and accuracy in coal mining environments. This paper proposes a method for identifying coal–rock layers based on Hilbert transform and tracking–scanning–stacking technology. There are two steps to achieve the recognition of air–coal–rock interfaces. First, by analysing the instantaneous amplitude spectrum obtained from the Hilbert transform, the first extreme point that is always the maximum value within a wavelength range is determined as the rough position of the air–coal interface. To solve the problem of recognition errors caused by noise and energy dispersion, the density difference method is used to remove discrete points. Second, the precise position of the air–coal interface is determined by tracking the extreme points within the 1.5 wavelength range around the rough position, and using the amplitude stacking method to quantitatively analyse and compare the degree of energy concentration. The data between zero time and the reflected waves at the air–coal interface is removed to avoid the impact of them on the recognition of the coal–rock interface. Results of physical model experiments and actual coal mine experiments show that this method yields better results and has high stability compared to conventional recognition method. Moreover, the average relative thickness errors are 4.5% for air layer and 4.2% for coal layer.
Redefining Compensation under International Law: the Methodology of the International Court of Justice in DRC v Uganda
Authors: Brinkman Daniel
Published: February 2024

In February 2022, the International Court of Justice handed down its decision in Armed Activities on the Territory of the Congo (Democratic Republic of the Congo v Uganda) which determined claims against Uganda for its unlawful military activities in the territory of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The decision is significant for the law of reparations, with the Court adopting a controversial ‘global sum’ methodology in fixing compensation which was guided by equitable considerations. Also at issue (which the Court did not decide) was whether claims for high‐level ‘macroeconomic’ loss are recoverable in principle under international law. This note argues that the Court's global sum methodology is a permissible (and welcome) use of equity to determine compensation where there are evidential difficulties. It also takes the view that macroeconomic loss should be recoverable in principle: a position which is consistent with the teleological design of compensation, and with the more flexible approach to economic loss which some international tribunals have taken.
Analyzing the risk of osteoporosis and fracture in rheumatoid arthritis patients who have been treated with various biologics
Authors: Su Yu‐Jih , Lin Chun‐Yu , Hsu Chung‐Yuan
Published: February 2024

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a major risk factor for osteoporosis/osteoporotic fractures. We aimed to elucidate the role of treatment choices among osteoporosis/osteoporotic fractures.

Methodology

We utilized the Chang‐Gung Research Database to assess the risks of osteoporosis/osteoporotic fractures among independently treated RA patients, using retrospective time‐to‐event outcomes analysis.

Results

A total of 3509 RA patients with a mean of 63.1 ± 8.6 years were analyzed. Among all, 1300 RA patients (37%) were diagnosed with newly diagnosed osteoporosis. The crude incidence of newly diagnosed osteoporosis was the highest among those treated with other conventional disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs (cDMARDs; 74.1 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 66.0–82.3), followed by those with a non‐treatment period (68 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 63.1–72.9), methotrxate (MTX) monotherapy (60.7 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 41.2–80.3), MTX plus other cDMARDs (51.9 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 43.4–60.3), and abatacept/rituximab (48.6 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 14.9–82.3). The lowest crude incidence was found in patients treated with anti‐TNFi biologics (40.4 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 28.6–52.2) and other biologic disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs; 40.1 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 8.0–72.1). A total of 270 patients (20.8%) suffered from an incident fracture during follow‐ups. The crude incidence of fracture was the highest among those treated with abatacept/rituximab (49.0 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 6.0–91.9), followed by those with non‐treatment periods (24.3 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 19.3–29.4), other cDMARDs (24.2 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 18.1–30.2), anti‐TNFi biologics (20.2 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 8.8–31.6). Other bDMARDs (13.3 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 0–39.2), MTX mono (12.5 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 0.3–24.8), and MTX plus other cDMARDs (11.4 events/1000‐PYs, 95%CI 5.4–17.4) were low incidences.

Conclusion

The treatment option has emerged as a critical determinant in the context of future osteoporosis and osteoporotic fracture risks among RA. These findings offer a valuable resource for clinicians, empowering them to tailor bespoke treatment strategies for RA patients, thereby mitigating the potential for future osteoporosis and fractures.
Neural response to threat and reward among young adults at risk for alcohol use disorder
Authors: Kirk‐Provencher Katelyn T. , Hakimi Rosa H. , Andereas Keinada , Penner Anne E. , Gowin Joshua L.
Published: February 2024

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is heritable. Thus, young adults with positive family histories represent an at‐risk group relative to those without a family history, and if studied at a time when both groups have similar levels of alcohol use, it provides an opportunity to identify neural processing patterns associated with risk for AUD. Previous studies have shown that diminished response to potential reward is associated with genetic risk for AUD, but it is unclear how threat may modulate this response. We used a modified Monetary Incentive Delay task during fMRI to examine neural correlates of the interaction between threat and reward anticipation in a sample of young adults with (n = 31) and without (n = 44) family histories of harmful alcohol use. We found an interaction (p = 0.048) between cue and group in the right nucleus accumbens where the family history positive group showed less differentiation to the anticipation of gaining $5 and losing $5 relative to gaining $0. The family history‐positive group also reported less excitement for trials to gain $5 relative to gaining $0 (p < 0.001). Family history‐positive individuals showed less activation in the left insula during both safe and threat blocks compared to family history‐negative individuals (p = 0.005), but the groups did not differ as a function of threat (p > 0.70). Young adults with, relative to without, enriched risk for AUD may have diminished reward processing via both neural and behavioural markers to potential rewarding and negative consequences. Neural response to threat may not be a contributing factor to risk at this stage.
The impact of suppressing puberty on neuropsychological function: A review
Authors: Baxendale Sallie
Published: February 2024

Aim

Concerns have been raised regarding the impact of medications that interrupt puberty, given the magnitude and complexity of changes that occur in brain function and structure during this sensitive window of neurodevelopment. This review examines the literature on the impact of pubertal suppression on cognitive and behavioural function in animals and humans.

Methods

All studies reporting cognitive impacts of treatment with GnRH agonists/antagonists for pubertal suppression in animals or humans were sought via a systematic search strategy across the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and PsycINFO databases.

Results

Sixteen studies were identified. In mammals, the neuropsychological impacts of puberty blockers are complex and often sex specific (n = 11 studies). There is no evidence that cognitive effects are fully reversible following discontinuation of treatment. No human studies have systematically explored the impact of these treatments on neuropsychological function with an adequate baseline and follow‐up. There is some evidence of a detrimental impact of pubertal suppression on IQ in children.

Conclusion

Critical questions remain unanswered regarding the nature, extent and permanence of any arrested development of cognitive function associated with puberty blockers. The impact of puberal suppression on measures of neuropsychological function is an urgent research priority.
Provenance, technology and possible function of Gáta–Wieselburg vessels from the Trieste Karst (northeastern Italy)
Authors: Bernardini Federico , De Min Angelo , Velicogna Matteo , Roffet‐Salque Mélanie , Kiss Viktória , Kasztovszky Zsolt , Maróti Boglárka , Szilágyi Veronika , Melis Eszter , Leghissa Elena
Published: February 2024

A few scattered vessels, typologically attributed to the Gáta–Wieselburg culture, are known from the Friuli Venezia Giulia region in northeastern Italy. This culture spread during the Early Bronze Age (Reinecke Br A1b and A2, 2100–1700/1600 bc) in present‐day eastern Austria, western Hungary and southwestern Slovakia. Rare ceramic artefacts, typically biconical double‐handled jugs with well‐burnished surfaces, have been discovered in caves of the Trieste Karst (Ciclami, Tartaruga, Teresiana and Ossa) and the Natisone Valley (Velika jama). This study aims to outline the technology, provenance and probable use of these rare jugs from the Trieste Karst. Two of these vessels from the Ciclami and Tartaruga caves have been investigated using various destructive and non‐destructive techniques, including optical microscopy, X‐ray computed microtomography and prompt‐gamma activation analysis, and chemically compared to contemporaneous vessels from the core region of the Gáta–Wieselburg culture in Hungary (10 vessels specifically analysed for this project) and earlier Neolithic and Copper Age vessels, likely produced locally in the Karst, Slovenia and Hungary. Based on the obtained results, the investigated Karst vessels were imported. Tentative identification of plant and animal lipids using organic residue analysis (i.e., gas chromatography–mass spectrometry) sheds light on their possible function.
The first case of a point pathogenic variant in the RREB1 gene in Noonan‐like Rasopathy
Authors: Shatokhina Olga , Bostanova Fatima , Bulakh Maria , Beresneva Anastasia , Ryzhkova Oxana
Published: February 2024

The RREB1 is a zinc finger transcription factor that plays a role in regulating gene expression and inactivating MAPK signalling components. To date, no pathogenic variant in the RREB1 gene has been associated with any disease, but several cases of 6p terminal deletions affecting the RREB1 gene have been reported. In this study, we report the first case of RREB1‐associated Noonan‐like RASopathy caused by a pathogenic variant within this gene. Genetic testing included whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) of the proband and Sanger sequencing of the proband, his parents, and his sibling. The proband had a de novo c.2677del, p.(Ala893Argfs*20) variant, likely resulting in RREB1 haploinsufficiency. Comparative analysis of patients with microdeletions, including in the RREB1 gene, confirmed shared clinical traits while highlighting unique features, such as blue sclerae and absence of cardiac anomalies. This study reinforces previous data on RREB1 haploinsufficiency as the driver of a new Noonan‐like RASopathy variant, which includes intellectual disability, delayed motor skills, short stature, short neck, and distinctive facial dysmorphisms as key clinical indicators. These findings shed light on this RREB1‐related syndrome and underscore the necessity for further investigation into the functional consequences of RREB1 mutations.
The relationship between physical function and psychological symptoms in Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta‐regression analysis
Authors: Hodgson Philip , Jordan Alastair , Sinani Charikleia , Charura Divine , Orange Samuel T.
Published: February 2024

Aims

This systematic review and meta‐regression aimed to examine available literature reporting measures of physical function, anxiety, and/or depression and whether any relationships exist between these measures in individuals with Parkinson's disease.

Methods

MEDLINE, CINAHL, AMED, and APA PsychInfo databases were systematically searched. Screening, quality assessment, and data extraction were completed alongside meta‐regression analysis.

Results

Of 1175 studies retrieved, 40 were selected for analysis with only one study assessing the relationship between physical and psychological outcomes within their cohort. A total of 27 studies were also eligible for meta‐regression analysis—a total sample of 1211 participants. Meta‐regressions of five combinations of paired physical and psychological outcomes showed a significant moderating effect of symptoms of depression (Beck Depression Inventory) on mobility (Timed‐Up‐and‐Go test; coefficient = 0.37, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.65, p = 0.012) and balance (Berg Balance Score) scores (coefficient = −1.25, 95% CI −1.77 to −0.73, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Although physical and psychological outcomes of interest were used in all included studies, only one examined their relationship. Our analysis suggests that symptoms of depression may influence measures of mobility and balance. Specifically, as the severity of symptoms of depression increases, performance on measures of mobility and balance worsens.
Mitochondria in depression: The dysfunction of mitochondrial energy metabolism and quality control systems
Authors: Jiang Mengruo , Wang Liyuan , Sheng Hui
Published: February 2024

Background

Depression is the most disabling neuropsychiatric disorder, causing difficulties in daily life activities and social interactions. The exact mechanisms of depression remain largely unclear. However, some studies have shown that mitochondrial dysfunction would play a crucial role in the occurrence and development of depression.

Aims

To summarize the known knowledge about the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of depression.

Methods

We review the recent literature， including 105 articles, to summarize the mitochondrial energy metabolism and quality control systems in the occurrence and development of depression. Some antidepressants which may exert their effects by improving mitochondrial function are also discussed.

Results

Impaired brain energy metabolism and (or) damaged mitochondrial quality control systems have been reported not only in depression patients but in animal models of depression. Although the classical antidepressants have not been specially designed to target mitochondria, the evidence suggests that many antidepressants may exert their effects by improving mitochondrial function.

Conclusions

This brief review focuses on the findings that implicate mitochondrial dysfunction and the quality control systems as important etiological factors in the context of depressive disorders. It will help us to understand the various concepts of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of depression, and to explore novel and more targeted therapeutic approaches for depression.
MRI biomarkers and neuropsychological assessments of hippocampal and parahippocampal regions affected by ALS: A systematic review
Authors: Mohammadi Sana , Ghaderi Sadegh , Fatehi Farzad
Published: February 2024

Background and Objective

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive motor and extra‐motor neurodegenerative disease. This systematic review aimed to examine MRI biomarkers and neuropsychological assessments of the hippocampal and parahippocampal regions in patients with ALS.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted in the Scopus and PubMed databases for studies published between January 2000 and July 2023. The inclusion criteria were (1) MRI studies to assess hippocampal and parahippocampal regions in ALS patients, and (2) studies reporting neuropsychological data in patients with ALS.

Results

A total of 46 studies were included. Structural MRI revealed hippocampal atrophy, especially in ALS‐FTD, involving specific subregions (CA1, dentate gyrus). Disease progression and genetic factors impacted atrophy patterns. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) showed increased mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD), radial diffusivity (RD), and decreased fractional anisotropy (FA) in the hippocampal tracts and adjacent regions, indicating loss of neuronal and white matter integrity. Functional MRI (fMRI) revealed reduced functional connectivity (FC) between the hippocampus, parahippocampus, and other regions, suggesting disrupted networks. Perfusion MRI showed hypoperfusion in parahippocampal gyri. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) found changes in the hippocampus, indicating neuronal loss. Neuropsychological tests showed associations between poorer memory and hippocampal atrophy or connectivity changes. CA1‐2, dentate gyrus, and fimbria atrophy were correlated with worse memory.

Conclusions

The hippocampus and the connected regions are involved in ALS. Hippocampal atrophy disrupted connectivity and metabolite changes correlate with cognitive and functional decline. Specific subregions can be particularly affected. The hippocampus is a potential biomarker for disease monitoring and prognosis.
The landscape of PBMCs in AQP4‐IgG seropositive NMOSD and MOGAD, assessed by high dimensional mass cytometry
Authors: Yao Mengyuan , Wang Wenjing , Sun Jiali , Guo Tianshu , Bian Jiangping , Xiao Fuyao , Li Yuanyuan , Cong Hengri , Wei Yuzhen , Zhang Xinghu , Liu Jianghong , Yin Linlin
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Data on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) characteristics of aquaporin‐4 (AQP4)‐IgG seropositive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody‐associated disease (MOGAD) are lacking. In this study, we describe the whole PBMCs landscape of the above diseases using cytometry by time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (CyTOF).

Methods

The immune cell populations were phenotyped and clustered using CyTOF isolated from 27 AQP4‐IgG seropositive NMOSD, 11 MOGAD patients, and 15 healthy individuals. RNA sequencing was employed to identify critical genes. Fluorescence cytometry and qPCR analysis were applied to further validate the algorithm‐based results that were obtained.

Results

We identified an increased population of CD11b+ mononuclear phagocytes (MNPs) in patients with high expression of CCR2, whose abundance may correlate with brain inflammatory infiltration. Using fluorescence cytometry, we confirmed the CCR2+ monocyte subsets in a second cohort of patients. Moreover, there was a wavering of B, CD4+ T, and NKT cells between AQP4‐IgG seropositive NMOSD and MOGAD.

Conclusions

Our findings describe the whole landscape of PBMCs in two similar demyelinated diseases and suggest that, besides MNPs, T, NK and B, cells were all involved in the pathogenesis. The identified cell population may be used as a predictor for monitoring disease development or treatment responses.
Sevoflurane causes cognitive impairment by inducing iron deficiency and inhibiting the proliferation of neural precursor cells in infant mice
Authors: Zuo Yong , Xie Jinhong , Zhang Xue , Thirupathi Anand , Liu Xiaopeng , Zhang Di , Zhang Jianhua , Shi Zhenhua
Published: February 2024

Aims

Numerous studies on animals have shown that exposure to general anesthetics in infant stage may cause neurocognitive impairment. However, the exact mechanism is not clear. The dysfunction of iron metabolism can cause neurodevelopmental disorders. Therefore, we investigated the effect of iron metabolism disorder induced by sevoflurane (Sev) on cognitive function and the proliferation of neural precursor cells (NPCs) and neural stem cells (NSCs) in infant mice.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice of postnatal day 14 and neural stem cells NE4C were treated with 2% Sev for 6 h. We used the Morris water maze (MWM) to test the cognitive function of infant mice. The proliferation of NPCs was measured using bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) label and their markers Ki67 and Pax6 in infant brain tissues 12 h after anesthesia. Meanwhile, we used immunohistochemical stain, immunofluorescence assay, western blot, and flow cytometer to evaluate the myelinogenesis, iron levels, and cell proliferation in cortex and hippocampus or in NE4C cells.

Results

The results showed that Sev significantly caused cognitive deficiency in infant mice. Further, we found that Sev inhibited oligodendrocytes proliferation and myelinogenesis by decreasing MBP and CC‐1 expression and iron levels. Meanwhile, Sev also induced the iron deficiency in neurons and NSCs by downregulating FtH and FtL expression and upregulating the TfR1 expression in the cortex and hippocampus, which dramatically suppressed the proliferation of NSCs and NPCs as indicated by decreasing the colocalization of Pax6+ and BrdU+ cells, and caused the decrease in the number of neurons. Interestingly, iron supplementation before anesthesia significantly improved iron deficiency in cortex and hippocampus and cognitive deficiency induced by Sev in infant mice. Iron therapy inhibited the decrease of MBP expression, iron levels in neurons and oligodendrocytes, and DNA synthesis of Pax6+ cells in hippocampus induced by Sev. Meanwhile, the number of neurons was partially recovered in hippocampus.

Conclusion

The results from the present study demonstrated that Sev‐induced iron deficiency might be a new mechanism of cognitive impairment caused by inhaled anesthetics in infant mice. Iron supplementation before anesthesia is an effective strategy to prevent cognitive impairment caused by Sev in infants.
Implementation of a lifestyle and life‐skills intervention to prevent weight‐gain and cardiometabolic abnormalities in young people with first‐episode psychosis as part of routine care: The Keeping the Body in Mind program
Authors: Curtis Jackie , Teasdale Scott B. , Morell Rachel , Wadhwa Prarthna , Watkins Andrew , Lederman Oscar , O'Donnell Catherine , Fibbins Hamish , Ward Philip B.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

In 2013, a cluster‐controlled pilot study found the 12‐week Keeping the Body in Mind (KBIM) lifestyle and life skills intervention was able to prevent weight gain in a small sample of youth experiencing first‐episode psychosis (FEP) with fewer than 4 weeks of antipsychotic exposure. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of KBIM as routine care on anthropometry and metabolic biochemistry in a larger sample of youth with FEP across three community mental health services.

Method

This retrospective chart audit was conducted on youth with FEP, prescribed a therapeutic dose of antipsychotic medication, and who engaged with KBIM between 2015 and 2019. Primary outcomes were weight and waist circumference. Secondary outcomes were blood pressure, blood glucose, and blood lipids. Outcomes were collected in at baseline and at 12 weeks. Data on program engagement were obtained from the participant's medical file.

Results

One‐hundred and eighty‐two people met inclusion criteria, and up to 134 people had baseline and 12‐week data on one or more outcome. Mean number of sessions attended was 11.1 (SD = 7.3). Increases in weight and waist circumference were limited to 1.5 kg (SD = 5.3, t(133) = 3.2, p = .002) and 0.7 cm (SD = 5.8, t(109) = 1.2, p = .23) respectively. Eighty‐one percent of participants did not experience clinically significant weight gain (>7% of baseline weight). There were no significant changes in blood pressure or metabolic biochemistry.

Conclusion

The prevention of substantial gains in weight and waist circumference observed in the initial pilot study was maintained with implementation of KBIM as part of routine clinical care for youth with FEP.
Assessing training on digital gender based violence in higher education taking into account gender and sexual orientation
Authors: Freude Leon , Bonet Jordi , Calvet Clara Camps
Published: February 2024

Digital Gender‐Based violence (DGBV) is a social problem affecting overproportionally younger people, especially women and LGTB. Training programmes to combat DGBV are recommended but we lack evidence‐based evaluation of them. We evaluate a series of trainings at university for all participants (N = 190), taking into account gender and sexual orientation. A multimethod approach is used. Training is assessed with a pre−/post‐test survey on DGBV concerning content and skills, including items and open boxes on overall satisfaction. We also include observations of the workshop and students' reflections. We measure learning outcomes and satisfaction for the whole sample, as well as differences for gender and sexual orientation. Previous knowledge confirms the need for training programmes on DGBV. The difference between previous and subsequent knowledge proves that short training programmes on DGBV can improve students' knowledge of DGBV. We could not find differences between genders, but there are some differences based on sexual orientation.
Natal legacies cause social and spatial marginalization during dispersal
Authors: Catitti Benedetta , Grüebler Martin U. , Farine Damien R. , Kormann Urs G.
Published: February 2024

Early‐life experiences can drive subsequent variation in social behaviours, but how differences among individuals emerge remains unknown. We combined experimental manipulations with GPS‐tracking to investigate the pathways through which developmental conditions affect social network position during the early dispersal of wild red kites (Milvus milvus). Across 211 juveniles from 140 broods, last‐hatched chicks—the least competitive—had the fewest number of peer encounters after fledging. However, when food supplemented, they had more encounters than all others. Using 4425 bird‐days of GPS data, we revealed that this was driven by differential responses to competition, with less competitive individuals naturally spreading out into marginal areas, and clustering in central foraging areas when food supplemented. Our results suggest that early‐life adversities can cause significant natal legacies on individual behaviour beyond independence, with potentially far‐reaching consequences on the social and spatial structure of animal populations.
Hotter is not (always) better: Embracing unimodal scaling of biological rates with temperature
Authors: Michaletz Sean T. , Garen Josef C.
Published: February 2024

Rate‐temperature scaling relationships have fascinated biologists for nearly two centuries and are increasingly important in our era of global climate change. These relationships are hypothesized to originate from the temperature‐dependent kinetics of rate‐limiting biochemical reactions of metabolism. Several prominent theories have formalized this hypothesis using the Arrhenius model, which characterizes a monotonic temperature dependence using an activation energy E. However, the ubiquitous unimodal nature of biological temperature responses presents important theoretical, methodological, and conceptual challenges that restrict the promise for insight, prediction, and progress. Here we review the development of key hypotheses and methods for the temperature‐scaling of biological rates. Using simulations, we examine the constraints of monotonic models, illustrating their sensitivity to data nuances such as temperature range and noise, and their tendency to yield variable and underestimated E, with critical consequences for climate change predictions. We also evaluate the behaviour of two prominent unimodal models when applied to incomplete and noisy datasets. We conclude with recommendations for resolving these challenges in future research, and advocate for a shift to unimodal models that better characterize the full range of biological temperature responses.
The University of California Was Wrong to Abolish the SAT: Admissions When Affirmative Action Was Banned
Authors: Wittman Donald
Published: February 2024

I study student characteristics and academic performance at the University of California, where consideration of an applicant's ethnicity has been banned since 1996 and SAT scores were used in admitting students to the university until fall 2021. I show the following: (1) SAT scores were more important than high school grades in predicting first‐year university GPA; (2) the use of SAT scores alone or with high school grades in determining admission is biased in favor of admitting underrepresented minorities and students who are socioeconomically disadvantaged; (3) SAT scores are more important and high school grades are less important in predicting GPA for underrepresented minorities and/or those students from low‐income families than they are for those students who are white and/or from high‐income families; and (4) the University of California found ways to admit a significant number of underrepresented minorities despite many of them having low SAT scores.
CryoEM insights into RNA primer synthesis by the human primosome
Authors: Yin Zhan , Kilkenny Mairi L. , Ker De‐Sheng , Pellegrini Luca
Published: February 2024

Eukaryotic DNA replication depends on the primosome – a complex of DNA polymerase alpha (Pol α) and primase – to initiate DNA synthesis by polymerisation of an RNA–DNA primer. Primer synthesis requires the tight coordination of primase and polymerase activities. Recent cryo‐electron microscopy (cryoEM) analyses have elucidated the extensive conformational transitions required for RNA primer handover between primase and Pol α and primer elongation by Pol α. Because of the intrinsic flexibility of the primosome, however, structural information about the initiation of RNA primer synthesis is still lacking. Here, we capture cryoEM snapshots of the priming reaction to reveal the conformational trajectory of the human primosome that brings DNA primase subunits 1 and 2 (PRIM1 and PRIM2, respectively) together, poised for RNA synthesis. Furthermore, we provide experimental evidence for the continuous association of primase subunit PRIM2 with the RNA primer during primer synthesis, and for how both initiation and termination of RNA primer polymerisation are licenced by specific rearrangements of DNA polymerase alpha catalytic subunit (POLA1), the polymerase subunit of Pol α. Our findings fill a critical gap in our understanding of the conformational changes that underpin the synthesis of the RNA primer by the primosome. Together with existing evidence, they provide a complete description of the structural dynamics of the human primosome during DNA replication initiation.
Space use of invertebrates in terrestrial habitats: Phylogenetic, functional and environmental drivers of interspecific variations
Authors: Auger Gwenaëlle , Pottier Julien , Mathieu Jérôme , Jabot Franck
Published: February 2024

Aim

We present the first global database of movement patterns of terrestrial invertebrates, focusing on active dispersal and foraging movements. We depict interspecific variations in movement distances among invertebrates and assess potential drivers of these variations. We finally contrast our results with those of previous vertebrate studies.

Location

Worldwide.

Methods

We conducted a meta‐analysis using 176 studies. They provided 411 movement estimates: 175 foraging movement estimates for 101 species, 51 families and 19 orders, and 236 dispersal estimates for 131 species, 53 families and 16 orders. These estimates were complemented by several organism functional traits: body mass, diet, locomotion mode and by environmental variables of the study sites: temperature and NDVI. We computed allometric relationships between movement distances and body mass both globally and separately for each taxonomic order with sufficient data. We tested the relative influence of the co‐variables on movement distances through model selection.

Results

We reveal a general positive allometric relationship between movement distance and body mass that holds across most taxonomic orders. We evidence a strong phylogenetic signal in movement distances that translates in variable allometries of movement distances with body mass across taxonomic orders. We further find that interspecific variations of movement distances are primarily correlated with functional differences rather than environmental conditions. Locomotion mode is the most important explanatory variable of both dispersal and foraging distances, with larger distances among flying individuals followed by walking and crawling ones for a given body mass. Surprisingly, trophic guild has a low predictive power of invertebrate movement distances as opposed to vertebrates, with unclear differences between invertebrate carnivores, herbivores and decomposers.

Main Conclusions

Our study provides general allometric equations for terrestrial movement distances of invertebrates. It further reveals important functional drivers of their interspecific variation in space use with a dominant role of their evolutionary history.
Lost seas, lakes, and lagoons: terminal Jurassic strata and environments in Buckinghamshire, English south midlands
Authors: Radley Jonathan D. , Coram Robert A.
Published: February 2024

The Jurassic strata running through the county of Buckinghamshire, English south midlands, culminate in the marine to non‐marine Upper Tithonian (formerly Portlandian) Portland and Purbeck formations. Despite poor exposure, this richly fossiliferous and strongly regressive carbonate‐clastic succession allows reconstruction of shallow marine, coastal lagoonal and ultimately lacustrine environments, against the backdrop of a hot, greenhouse climate.
PDGF‐AA guides cell crosstalk between human dental pulp stem cells in vitro via the PDGFR‐α/PI3K/Akt axis
Authors: Xu Siqun , Wei Jieya , Liu Yang , Zhang Li , Duan Mengmeng , Li Jiazhou , Niu Zhixing , Pu Xiaohua , Huang Minglei , Chen Hao , Zhou Xuedong , Xie Jing
Published: February 2024

Aim

To explore the influence of PDGF‐AA on cell communication between human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) by characterizing gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) and its potential biomechanical mechanism.

Methodology

Quantitative real‐time PCR was used to measure connexin family member expression in DPSCs. Cell migration and CCK‐8 assays were utilized to examine the influence of PDGF‐AA on DPSC migration and proliferation. A scrape loading/dye transfer assay was applied to evaluate GJIC triggered by PDGF‐AA, a PI3K/Akt signalling pathway blocker (LY294002) and a PDGFR‐α blocker (AG1296). Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to test the expression and distribution of the Cx43 and p‐Akt proteins in DPSCs. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and immunofluorescence were used to observe the morphology of GJIC in DPSCs.

Results

PDGF‐AA promoted gap junction formation and intercellular communication between human dental pulp stem cells. PDGF‐AA upregulates the expression of Cx43 to enhance gap junction formation and intercellular communication. PDGF‐AA binds to PDGFR‐α and activates PI3K/Akt signalling to regulate cell communication.

Conclusions

This research demonstrated that PDGF‐AA can enhance Cx43‐mediated GJIC in DPSCs via the PDGFR‐α/PI3K/Akt axis, which provides new cues for dental pulp regeneration from the perspective of intercellular communication.
Effects of thermal treatment on the physicochemical and structural properties of wheat gluten proteins: insights from gluten, glutenin, and gliadin fractions
Authors: Xu Ke , Kuang Jiwei
Published: February 2024

This study examined changes in heat‐induced gluten proteins, focusing on their structure, physicochemical properties, and molecular analysis. The results demonstrated that gliadin had a high denaturation temperature (68.04 °C) and minimal aggregation during heating (25 °C–95 °C), yet it hindered thermal reaction progress of gluten effectively. Heating caused a shift from α‐helical structure to random coil and β‐turn structures, with a decrease in fluorescence intensity. High temperature reduced sulphydryl groups in gluten and glutenin, reaching 0.64 and 0.58 mmol L−1, respectively. However, the content of sulphydryl groups in gliadin remained relatively stable at around 0.37 mmol L−1. Notably, the configuration of disulphide bonds in gliadin, particularly in the g‐g‐g configuration, displayed greater stability. Microstructure analysis revealed increased compactness in all protein fractions as temperature rose. Overall, gliadin had greater thermal stability, impeding glutenin aggregation and gluten network formation. These findings provide valuable insights for cooking, processing, and storage of gluten proteins.
Effect of addition of soybean protein isolate on the retrogradation of rice starch
Authors: Yang Yang , Wu Na , Zhang Can , Bian Xin , Ma Chun‐min , Wang Yuan‐yuan , Fu Yao , Shi Yan‐guo , Ai Lian‐zhong , Zhang Na
Published: February 2024

In this study, a hybrid system was prepared by mixing rice starch (RS) with different mass fractions (0%–10% dry weight) of soy protein isolate (SPI) to investigate its retrogradation characteristics during storage. The results showed that the addition of SPI led to an increase in pasting temperature and a decrease in setback (SB) and aging rate (P < 0.05). When the level of SPI was increased to 10%, the pasting temperature reached a peak of 75.28°C, resulting in a decrease of 16.52% in regrowth rate and 51.61% in aging rate. The analysis of hardness and secondary structure indicated that the inclusion of SPI resulted in a less robust starch gel structure in comparison to RS, leading to a decrease in gel hardness and the short‐range ordered structure of starch. The pore structure of the starch gel was observed to be smaller and more uniform following the addition of SPI. The presence of SPI hindered the recrystallisation of starch granules, consequently leading to a delay in starch retrogradation. The results of this study have validated the positive effect of incorporating SPI on the anti‐aging properties of starch during storage. This serves as a foundational basis for enhancing the processing attributes of RS and the overall quality of starchy food products.
Expanding student nurse placement activity in Welsh care homes: An evaluation study
Authors: Williams Sharon , Caley Lynne , Kingdom‐Mills Sarah , Cassidy Simon , Jones Lesley
Published: February 2024

Aim

Expanding and sustaining student nurse placements outside of the acute sector is a universal challenge. This paper aims to evaluate the Care Home Education Facilitator Role introduced in one area of Wales, United Kingdom, and to report on the outcomes achieved from this novel role.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with key stakeholders including the Care Home Education Facilitator postholder leading the pilot, care home managers, higher education institutions' placement managers/coordinators, student nurses and national health service staff.

Results

Five key areas were identified, which included timing of introducing the post and establishing a clear rationale and understanding of the intention of the role. The benefits, challenges and suggested improvements to the Care Home Education Facilitator initiative are provided.

Conclusion

Introducing the role of the Care Home Education Facilitator to work closely with key stakeholders resulted in increased placements for student nurses, but investing time in developing relationships with these stakeholders was critical to the success of the role.
An association between Dnmt1 and Wnt in the production of oocytes in the whitefly Bemisia tabaci
Authors: Cunningham Christopher B. , Shelby Emily A. , McKinney Elizabeth C. , Simmons Alvin M. , Moore Allen J. , Moore Patricia J.
Published: February 2024

The function of DNA methylation in insects and the DNA methyltransferase (Dnmt) genes that influence methylation remains uncertain. We used RNA interference to reduce the gene expression of Dnmt1 within the whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera:Aleyrodidae; Gennadius), a hemipteran species that relies on Dnmt1 for proper gametogenesis. We then used RNA‐seq to test an a priori hypothesis that meiosis‐related genetic pathways would be perturbed. We generally did not find an overall effect on meiosis‐related pathways. However, we found that genes in the Wnt pathway, genes associated with the entry into meiosis in vertebrates, were differentially expressed. Our results are consistent with Dnmt1 knockdown influencing specific pathways and not causing general transcriptional response. This is a finding that is also seen with other insect species. We also characterised the methylome of B. tabaci and assessed the influence of Dnmt1 knockdown on cytosine methylation. This species has methylome characteristics comparable to other hemipterans regarding overall level, enrichment within gene bodies, and a bimodal distribution of methylated/non‐methylated genes. Very little differential methylation was observed, and difference in methylation were not associated with differences in gene expression. The effect on Wnt presents an interesting new candidate pathway for future studies.
Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells from tumour‐bearing mice induce the population expansion of CD19hiFcγRIIbhi regulatory B cells via PD‐L1
Authors: Chen Wenyan , Ning Xiaomin , Liu Yang , Shen Tingting , Liu Mengru , Yin Hui , Ding Yue , Zhou Jingwen , Yin Rui , Cai Liangliang , Wu Yuhan , Qian Li
Published: February 2024

Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) increase in number and gain immunosuppressive functions in tumours and many other pathological conditions. MDSCs are characterized by their strong T‐cell immunosuppressive capacity. The effects that MDSCs may have on B cells, especially within the tumour microenvironment, are less well understood. Here, we report that either monocytic MDSCs or polymorphonuclear MDSCs can promote increases in interleukin (IL)‐10‐expressing CD19hiFcγRIIbhi regulatory B cells in vitro and in vivo. Splenic transitional‐1, ‐2, and ‐3 cells and marginal zone B cells, but not follicular B cells, differentiate into IL‐10‐expressing CD19hiFcγRIIbhi regulatory B cells. The adoptive transfer of CD19hiFcγRIIbhi regulatory B cells via tail vein injection can promote subcutaneous 3LL tumour growth in mice. The expression of programmed death‐ligand 1 on MDSCs was found to be strongly associated with CD19hiFcγRIIbhi regulatory B cell population expansion. Furthermore, the frequency of circulating CD19+FcγRIIhi regulatory B cells was significantly increased in advanced‐stage lung cancer patients. Our results unveil a critical role of MDSCs in regulatory B‐cell differentiation and population expansion in lung cancer patients.
Barriers to using physical exercise as an intervention within inpatient mental health settings: A systematic review
Authors: McKenna Catriona , Moyo Beata , Goodwin John
Published: February 2024

Service providers find it difficult to implement Physical Exercise (PE) strategies in routine care within inpatient mental health settings even though they perceive it to be an effective therapy, with a robust evidence base. Identifying barriers that exist can assist with the development of future interventions and support PE services being introduced into mental health inpatient settings. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesise the evidence on the barriers or perceived barriers that exist amongst service users and providers when incorporating PE as an intervention within inpatient mental health settings. Using a narrative synthesis approach, four main themes were identified: (i) Barriers relating to service users' mental and physical health, (ii) Factors relating to service providers, (iii) Environmental factors and (iv) Cultural factors. Both service users and providers need more knowledge on implementing PE in inpatient mental health settings. Tailored programmes for service users are warranted, with specialist roles for staff developed.
Comparative effectiveness of pericapsular nerve group block versus fascia iliac compartment block on postoperative wound pain management in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mou Zhefei , Xiang Lingping , Ni Yueping
Published: February 2024

Hip fracture surgeries are challenging, with postoperative pain management being a critical component of patient care. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to compare the effectiveness of Pericapsular nerve group block (PENGB) and fascia iliac compartment block (FICB) in postoperative wound pain management for patients undergoing hip fracture surgery. The study followed the PRISMA guidelines and was structured around the PICO framework. Comprehensive searches were conducted across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Inclusion criteria were limited to RCTs comparing the effectiveness of PENGB and FICB in adult patients undergoing hip fracture surgery. Key outcomes included pain control effectiveness, safety, and complication incidence. The quality of studies was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated using I2 statistics, and meta‐analysis effect values were calculated using random‐effects or fixed‐effect models, depending on the degree of heterogeneity. The search identified 1095 articles, with 5 studies meeting inclusion criteria. The meta‐analysis revealed that PENGB and FICB were comparable in managing postoperative pain and opioid consumption. However, PENGB significantly reduced the incidence of quadriceps muscle weakness (RR = 0.12, p < 0.05) and did not increase the risk of PONV (RR = 1.36, p = 0.51), suggesting its advantage in maintaining motor function without adding to PONV complications. No significant publication bias was detected. PENGB is comparable to FICB in pain and opioid consumption management after hip fracture surgeries. Its significant benefit lies in reducing the incidence of quadriceps muscle weakness, facilitating better postoperative mobility. Additionally, PENGB does not increase the risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting, underlining its suitability for comprehensive postoperative care in hip fracture patients.