bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What drives employees' job performance in green hotels? The mediating effect of employee positive mood and satisfaction
Authors: Khuong Mai Ngoc , Minh Phuong Nguyen Thi
Published: June 2024

What is vague about identifying the impact of Green Human Resource Management practices (GHRMPs) on employee job performance remains under‐explored in the hospitality literature. Based on the theory of planned behavior, this research examines the role of GHRMPs on employee job performance through employee satisfaction and positive mood. Data was collected from 647 staff in 12 hotels from October 2022 to March 2023 and analyzed through PLS_SEM. Results showed that all factors of GHRMPs positively influence positive moods. The non‐significant result is green knowledge and job satisfaction, whereas green attitudes, green skills, and positive moods directly affect job satisfaction. Also, the role of GHRMPs is to strengthen the positive influence of job performance directly and indirectly through positive mood and job satisfaction. However, environmental skills did not affect job performance. This research provides some contributions to the hospitality literature and practical implications for managers of hotels and practitioners.
Vascular endothelial growth factor is an effective biomarker for vascular dementia, not for Alzheimer's disease: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Xu Ling‐Zhi , Li Fang‐Yu , Xu Jin , Li Bing‐Qiu , Li Ying , Jia Jian‐Ping
Published: June 2024

INTRODUCTION

Vascular pathology is known to contribute to dementia and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a well‐established biomarker associated with vascular alterations. Nonetheless, research findings on VEGF in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD) are inconsistent across various studies.

METHODS

We conducted a meta‐analysis to elucidate relationships between VEGF and AD/VaD.

RESULTS

Twenty‐four studies were included. Pooled data showed that both blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) VEGF levels were higher in VaD patients, whereas no significant difference was found between AD patients and healthy controls. However, the correlation between blood VEGF and AD was found among studies with AD pathology verification. And blood VEGF levels were higher in AD patients than controls in “age difference < 5 years” subgroup and CSF samples for European cohorts.

DISCUSSION

This study highlights that VEGF is more effective for the diagnosis of VaD and vascular factors are also an important contributor in AD.

Highlights

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels were higher in the vascular dementia group, but not in the overall Alzheimer's disease (AD) group.

Correlation between VEGF and AD was found among studies with clear AD pathological verification.

Elevated VEGF in the cerebrospinal fluid might be a diagnostic marker for AD in European populations.
Squamate scavenging services: Heath goannas (Varanus rosenbergi) support carcass removal and may suppress agriculturally damaging blowflies
Authors: Jameson Tom J. M. , Johnston Gregory R. , Barr Max , Sandow Derek , Head Jason J. , Turner Edgar C.
Published: June 2024

Human‐induced environmental change has caused widespread loss of species that support important functions for ecosystems and society. For example, vertebrate scavengers contribute to the functional health of ecosystems and provide services to agricultural landscapes by removing carcasses and associated pests. Widespread extirpation of native Australian mammals since the arrival of Europeans in Australia has removed many scavenging species from landscapes, while scavenging mammals such as European red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) have been introduced. In much of Australia, squamate reptiles are the largest native terrestrial scavengers remaining, where large native mammals are extinct and conservation management is being undertaken to remove invasive mammals. The contribution of reptiles to scavenging functions is not well understood. In this study, we investigated the ecosystem functions provided by large reptiles as scavengers to better understand how populations can be managed to support ecosystem services. We investigated the ecosystem services provided by vertebrate scavengers in Australian coastal mallee ecosystems, focusing on the heath goanna (Varanus rosenbergi), the only extant native terrestrial scavenger in the region. We carried out exclosure experiments, isolating the scavenging activity of different taxonomic groups to quantify the contribution of different taxa to scavenging services, specifically the removal of rat carcasses, and its impact on the occurrence of agriculturally damaging blowflies. We compared areas with different native and invasive scavenger communities to investigate the impact of invasive species removal and native species abundance on scavenging services. Our results indicated that vertebrate scavenging significantly contributes to carcass removal and limitation of necrophagous fly breeding in carcasses and that levels of removal are higher in areas associated with high densities of heath goannas and low densities of invasive mammals. Therefore, augmentation of heath goanna populations represents a promising management strategy to restore and maximize scavenging ecosystem services.
First dispersal records of the endangered banteng (Bos javanicus) in Thung Yai Naresuan West Wildlife Sanctuary, Thailand
Authors: Amorntiyangkul Peerawit , Jornburom Pornkamol , Pattanavibool Anak , Suksavate Warong , Klanprasert Supalerk , Kaewvisat Sahasawat , Thongthai Thanadid
Published: June 2024

Banteng (Bos javanicus) is listed as an endangered species because of a global population decline of at least 50% over the last 25 years. The Western Forest Complex (WEFCOM) of Thailand has been identified as a priority site for banteng population recovery, and Huai Kha Keang Wildlife Sanctuary (HKK) is the most important source site for this species within the WEFCOM. We have provided evidence and discussed banteng dispersal from HKK to Thung Yai Naresuan West Wildlife Sanctuary (TYW). We sampled an area of 147 km2 in banteng habitat next to the border between HKK and TYW using camera traps. We divided the sampled area into four grid cells and placed camera traps during January to December 2022. We setup the camera traps near saltlicks and natural water sources, as important resources for banteng, to maximize capture probability. In total, 2835 trap days were obtained. Bantengs were captured in all seasons (RAI = 1.66), especially in dry dipterocarp forest, which contains the ground forage availability for banteng, and the low‐slope area with elevation 600–700 m adjacent to the border between HKK and TYW. The results highlighted that banteng, which had never been reported in TYW before, appeared there for the first time. They most likely dispersed from the population source in HKK and settled in a habitat that is considered suitable for them. The habitat management and protection are significant for the future recovery of banteng populations in the TYW and the rest of protected areas in the WEFCOM.
The levels of soluble CD137 are increased in tuberculosis patients and associated with disease severity and prognosis
Authors: Yi Ling , Yan Jun , Wei Panjian , Long Sibo , Wang Xiaojue , Gu Meng , Yang Bin , Chen Yan , Ma Shang , Wang Chaohong , Zheng Maike , Sun Qing , Shi Yiheng , Wang Guirong
Published: June 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) was the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent before the coronavirus pandemic. Therefore, it is important to search for severity biomarkers and devise appropriate therapies. A total of 139 pulmonary TB (PTB) patients and 80 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited for plasma soluble CD137 (sCD137) detection through ELISA. Moreover, pleural effusion sCD137 levels were measured in 85 TB patients and 36 untreated lung cancer patients. The plasma cytokine levels in 64 patients with PTB and blood immune cell subpopulations in 68 patients with PTB were analysed via flow cytometry. Blood sCD137 levels were higher in PTB patients (p = 0.012) and correlated with disease severity (p = 0.0056). The level of sCD137 in tuberculous pleurisy effusion (TPE) was markedly higher than that in malignant pleurisy effusion (p = 0.018). Several blood cytokines, such as IL‐6 (p = 0.0147), IL‐8 (p = 0.0477), IP‐10 (p ≤ 0.0001) and MCP‐1 (p = 0.0057), and some laboratory indices were significantly elevated in severe PTB (SE) patients, but the percentages of total lymphocytes (p = 0.002) and cytotoxic T cells (p = 0.036) were significantly lower in SE patients than in non‐SE patients. In addition, the sCD137 level was negatively correlated with the percentage of total lymphocytes (p = 0.0008) and cytotoxic T cells (p = 0.0021), and PTB patients with higher plasma sCD137 levels had significantly shorter survival times (p = 0.0041). An increase in sCD137 is a potential biomarker for severe TB and indicates a poor prognosis.
Therapeutic targeting of factor D and MASP3 in complement‐mediated diseases: Lessons learned from mouse studies
Authors: Mohammadyari Eshagh , Miwa Takashi , Golla Madhu , Song Wen‐Chao
Published: June 2024

The alternative pathway (AP) plays a major role in many complement‐mediated human diseases. Factor D (FD), a rate‐limiting enzyme in AP complement activation, is an attractive therapeutic target. Unlike other complement proteins, FD is synthesized primarily in adipose tissue, and its levels in human blood are relatively low. However, because of FD's high turnover rate, therapeutic targeting with monoclonal antibodies and chemical inhibitors has been challenging. The recent discovery that FD activity is regulated by mannose‐binding lectin‐associated serine protease 3 (MASP3), through conversion of a zymogen to mature FD, has sparked interest in MASP3 inhibition as a new way to block FD function and AP complement activity. Here, we review studies of mouse models of FD and MASP3 inhibition. We additionally discuss the lessons learned from these studies and their implications for therapeutic targeting of human FD and MASP3.
Study of the lipid fraction of Moroccan and Italian carobs (Ceratonia siliqua L.)
Authors: Amar Yasmine M. Ben , Potortì Angela G. , Albergamo Ambrogina , Litrenta Federica , Rando Rossana , Mouad Lahkim B. , Brigui Jamal , Chouaibi Noureddine , Di Bella Giuseppa
Published: June 2024

Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is a characteristic fruit from the Mediterranean area, composed of a hard pulp and numerous seeds that have been unfairly undervalued and underutilized over time. To enhance the Mediterranean's biodiversity and support food production from sustainable resources, the carob has recently received attention for its nutritional value, and it has advantageously served as a healthy ingredient of many food products. Hence, in this study, the composition of the Mediterranean carob was further deepened by investigating its lipid fraction on a dry weight basis in relation to the fruit part (i.e., pulp and seeds) and the geographical origin (i.e., different Moroccan and Italian provinces). On average, lipids of pulp and seeds amounted to 1.71% and 2.46%, respectively. Predominant fatty acids were palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids. Palmitic and oleic acids were higher in pulp (20.21%–26.50% and 37.63%–44.49%) than seeds (13.93%–17.26% and 31.92%–36.66%), whereas linoleic acid showed an opposite accumulation trend (pulp: 8.32%–15.46%, seeds: 38.19%–43.45%). Among sterols, β‐sitosterol (57.49%–72.47%), Δ‐5‐avenasterol (10.26%–21.27%), and stigmasterol (3.97%–8.11%) accounted for more than 70% of total sterols of pulp, whereas β‐sitosterol alone represented more than 70% of sterols in seeds. Considering tocopherols, γ‐tocopherol was the most abundant isomer both in pulp (10.37–22.78 mg/100 g) and seeds (4.95–22.86 mg/100 g). Carob also resulted in a good source of squalene, which on average was 2.17 mg kg−1 in pulp and 19.07 mg kg−1 in seeds. A principal component analysis pointed out that the study of the lipid fraction of carob can help in discriminating samples based on their Moroccan or Italian origin.

Practical Applications: The study provides further insights into the still‐little‐explored lipid fraction of Mediterranean carob and fills a relevant gap in the literature by contributing to a more exhaustive framework of the nutritional and functional value of this fruit. In a wider perspective, it can be of practical help in the formulation of carob‐based products and in the establishment of a more informed market of carob and carob‐based products.
Mild C−H Alkoxylation of Aromatic Amides Catalyzed by Salicylaldehyde‐Co(II) Complexes
Authors: Chen Xiao‐Hong , Xu Yi‐Qing , Huang Mao‐Gui , Tan Yu‐Yan , Li Yu‐Han , Li Jia‐Wei , Liu Yue‐Jin
Published: June 2024

A simple and efficient salicylaldehyde‐promoted cobalt‐catalyzed protocol for the C−H alkoxylation of aromatic amides by employing primary alcohols as the coupling partner has been developed. This method utilizes a 8‐aminoquinoline moiety as the directing group and successfully achieves the ortho−C−H alkoxylation in moderate to good yields under mild conditions. This protocol features excellent functional tolerance and broad substrate scope including natural products. In addition, the directing group could be easily removed as well.
The minority extremity bias
Authors: Emig Yvonne , Erb Hans‐Peter
Published: June 2024

Entities of low prevalence are evaluated as more extreme in their characteristics than those of high prevalence. We extended this idea to minorities, which by definition have fewer members than majorities, and found converging evidence for a minority extremity bias (MEB; N = 957). Participants associated the term ‘minority’ (rather than ‘majority’) with higher extremity (Study 1). Minorities were associated with higher extremity than majorities (Study 2). We added a manipulation of the minority size (Study 3, Part 1). Results indicated that the MEB is stronger for very small minorities than for small minorities. Participants assigned extreme behaviour more often to a minority than to a majority (Study 3, Part 2). We extended the MEB to more extreme ratings of minorities on evaluation scales (Study 4). Prevalence of group members correlated negatively with the extremity of group stereotyping (n = 118 groups; Study 5). Participants rated minorities on induced stereotypes more extreme than majorities (Study 6). We discuss the MEB in the context of alternative explanations such as the outgroup extremity effect. Taken together, this research demonstrates the MEB, which is a novel exploration in the realm of group evaluation that contributes to existing literature.
A modified lattice Boltzmann approach based on radial basis function approximation for the non‐uniform rectangular mesh
Authors: Hu X. , Bergadà J. M. , Li D. , Sang W. M. , An B.
Published: June 2024

We have presented a novel lattice Boltzmann approach for the non‐uniform rectangular mesh based on the radial basis function approximation (RBF‐LBM). The non‐uniform rectangular mesh is a good option for local grid refinement, especially for the wall boundaries and flow areas with intensive change of flow quantities. Which allows, the total number of grid cells to be reduced and so the computational cost, therefore improving the computational efficiency. But the grid structure of the non‐uniform rectangular mesh is no longer applicable to the classic lattice Boltzmann method (CLBM), which is based on the famous BGK collision‐streaming evolution. This is why the present study is inspired by the idea of the interpolation‐supplemented LBM (ISLBM) methodology. The ISLBM algorithm is improved in the present manuscript and developed into a novel LBM approach through the radial basis function approximation instead of the Lagrangian interpolation scheme. The new approach is validated for both steady states and unsteady periodic solutions. The comparison between the radial basis function approximation and the Lagrangian interpolation is discussed. It is found that the novel approach has a good performance on computational accuracy and efficiency. Proving that the non‐uniform rectangular mesh allows grid refinement while obtaining precise flow predictions.
A method to “gamify” exposure to vegetable flavor and its potential influence on liking
Authors: Davis Lissa A. , Kielb Elizabeth I. , Moding Kameron J. , Running Cordelia A.
Published: June 2024

Unpleasant flavor is a commonly stated reason for avoiding vegetables. However, repeated exposure to flavors, even unpleasant vegetable flavors, improves acceptability. Yet, increasing exposure to vegetables is difficult, as vegetables can be less convenient, available, and affordable than other foods. This study describes a method to circumvent these barriers to repeated flavor exposure. We designed a game with vegetable‐ or control‐flavored gummies, where players (N = 34) were challenged to identify the flavors over 2 weeks. One round was played per day, and the questions and gummies were designed to make it harder to identify the flavors as the game progressed. At screening, qualified subjects needed to consume <2.5 servings of nonstarchy vegetables per day as well as dislike at least one “target” and one “non‐target” vegetable. The “target” vegetables (kale and broccoli) were included in the game and the “non‐target” vegetables (asparagus and spinach) were included in sensory tests but not the game. Vegetable liking ratings were measured at baseline (before gameplay), after 1 week of gameplay, and after 2 weeks of gameplay. Pilot data indicate one target vegetable (kale) increased in liking after 1 and 2 weeks of gameplay among the vegetable group, but not the control group. Liking for broccoli (other target vegetable), as well as asparagus and spinach (nontarget vegetables), did not significantly change for either group. Thus, our “gamified” approach to vegetable flavor exposure may be useful in increasing acceptance of some vegetables, but additional work to identify why the game improved liking for kale but not broccoli is needed.
Enhanced production of gamma‐aminobutyric acid in fermented carrot juice by utilizing pectin hydrolysate derived from pomegranate waste
Authors: Devecioglu Dilara , Kara Didem , Tapan Rabia , Karbancioglu‐Guler Funda , Kahveci Derya
Published: June 2024

In this study, a functional fermented beverage enriched with gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) was produced. To achieve this, the prebiotic abilities of pectin obtained from pomegranate peel and its enzymatic hydrolysates were evaluated. Additionally, a functional fermented beverage enriched with GABA was produced by fermenting carrot juice with pectin hydrolysates. First, pectin was obtained at a yield of 8.91% from pomegranate peels. Pectinase‐catalyzed hydrolysis of the obtained pectin was applied using different enzyme concentrations and hydrolysis times, and the effect of these hydrolysates on the growth of Levilactobacillus brevis was determined. Although the Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectra of the resulting hydrolysates were similar, their degree of esterification compared to that of pectin was statistically different (p < .05). Considering the viability analysis and GABA production of L. brevis in the liquid medium supplemented with pectin or its hydrolysate, the hydrolysate obtained by treatment with 400 μL enzyme for 2 h and having a high glucose content (216.80 mg/100 g) was selected for application in fermented carrot juice. During fermentation (24, 48, and 72 h), a remarkable change was observed, especially in the amounts of lactic acid and malic acid, while the amount of GABA in carrot juice varied between 25 and 46 mg/mL and increased with the increase in hydrolysate concentration. It was observed that the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of carrot juice were highly affected by the hydrolysate concentration. This study demonstrated that pectin hydrolysate obtained from food waste could be a potential prebiotic and could be used in the production of a functional beverage with improved GABA content.
Growth parameters, phytochemicals, and antitumor activity of wild and cultivated ice plants (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.)
Authors: Rincón‐Cervera Miguel Ángel , Pagan Loeiro da Cunha‐Chiamolera Tatiana , Chileh‐Chelh Tarik , Carmona‐Fernández Minerva , Urrestarazu Miguel , Guil‐Guerrero José Luis
Published: June 2024

The ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.) is a halophyte that could become an alternative crop because of its interest as a functional food and its adaptation to high‐saline soils. In this work, leaves from wild ice plants were compared with their cultivated counterparts in a soilless system at different salinities and light exposures for assessing growth parameters, moisture, fatty acid profiles, total carotenoids, phenolic compounds, vitamin C, antioxidant activity, and antiproliferative activity against the HT‐29 colorectal cancer cell line. Moisture ranged between 876 and 955 g kg−1, and wild plants contained higher proportions of α‐linolenic acid (58.7%–60.7% of total fatty acids) than cultivated ones (20.4%–36.6%). Vitamin C ranged between 819 and 1143 mg kg−1 fresh leaves. Higher salinity led to a larger production of carotenoids, whereas plant mass, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity increased in plants grown using L8 NS1 and L8 AP67 lamps in comparison with white‐light ones. Phenolic profiles were assessed by LC coupled to a hybrid mass spectrometer Q‐Orbitrap. Total phenolic acid content was 3–4‐fold higher than that of flavonoids, and sinapic, p‐coumaric, gallic, 4‐hydroxybenzoic, and 2‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzoic acids, as well as gallocatechin, occurred in all samples. Hydroalcoholic extracts of ice plant leaves showed dose‐ and time‐dependent antiproliferative activity against the HT‐29 human colorectal cancer cell line, and GI50 was between 920 and 977 μg mL−1 of plant extract. This work contributes to improving knowledge about the growth parameters, phytochemical profiles, and biological activities of wild and cultivated ice plants.
The potential protective role of carotenoids from saffron: A focus on endoplasmic reticulum stress‐related organ damage
Authors: Mirzavi Farshad , Rajabian Arezoo , Hosseini Hossein
Published: June 2024

The anticancer, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties of carotenoids from saffron or apocarotenoids (e.g., crocin, safranal, crocetin, and picrocrocin) have prompted research into their benefits. Apocarotenoids seem to be effective compound for the treatment of chronic diseases, such as neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, cancer, respiratory, and metabolic disorders. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an essential organelle found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells that participates in the biosynthesis of proteins, lipids, and steroid hormones. Given the role of the ER in the regulation of several fundamental biological processes, including metabolic pathways and immune responses, aberrant ER function can have a significant influence on these vital processes and result in serious pathological consequences. Exposure of cell to adverse environmental challenges, such as toxic agents, ischemia, and so on, causes accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins in the ER lumen, also called ER stress. There is a growing evidence to suggest that ER disturbance in the form of oxidative/nitrosative stress and subsequent apoptotic cell death plays major roles in the pathogenesis of many human diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, neurodegenerative diseases, and liver diseases. Apocarotenoids with their unique properties can modulate ER stress through PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP (protein kinase R (PKR)‐like ER kinase/eukaryotic initiation factor 2α/activating transcription factor 4/C/EBP /homologous protein) and X‐Box Binding Protein 1/activating transcription factor 6 (XBP1/ATF6) pathways. In addition, they suppress apoptosis through inhibition of endoplasmic and mitochondrial‐dependent caspase cascade and can stimulate SIRT1 (silent information regulator 1) and Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2) expression, thereby leading to protection against oxidative stress. This review summarizes the potential benefits of apocarotenoids in various ER‐stress‐related disorders.
Antimicrobial and food barrier properties of polyvinyl alcohol–lactic acid food packaging films
Authors: Madivoli E. S. , Kisato J. , Gichuki J. , Wangui C. M. , Kimani P. K. , Kareru P. G.
Published: June 2024

Microbial contamination and the need for sustainable food production are driving the shift toward biodegradable food packaging materials. There is an urgent need to develop smart food packaging materials that can prevent contamination and prolong the shelf life of meat. To achieve this, the physical–chemical characteristics of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐based packaging films were enhanced through incorporation of lactic acid and anthocyanins to act as a pH indicator. The mechanical, hydrophilic, barrier, and antibacterial properties of the composite films were then evaluated to test the ability of the film to act as a packaging material. In addition, the surface morphology was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the functional groups by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, optical transparency using ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectrophotometer, crystallinity by powder diffraction, and their thermal properties by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). The films had a swelling degree (SD) of 222.60 ± 21.19%, dry content (DC) of 70.56 ± 2.54%, moisture content (MC) of 29.44 ± 2%, ALRO moisture (AM) content of 41.85 ± 5.06, and total soluble matter (TSM) of 8.05 ± 1.05%. Moreover, incorporation of lactic acid enhanced the mechanical and the thermal properties of the films but it reduced their optical transparency. The water vapor permeability (WVP) was found to be 14.32 × 10−3 g−1 s−1 Pa−1 and it inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli (EC) (10.67 ± 0.58 cm), Staphylococcus aureus (SA) (10.50 ± 0.40 cm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) (10.33 ± 0.58 cm), and Staphylococcus epidermidis (11 ± 1 cm) but not Bacillus subtilis (BS). The film's hue changed from red to green over time when used as a packaging material for meat under ambient condition indicating a deterioration in freshness. In conclusion, the developed packaging film exhibited enhanced mechanical, antimicrobial, and hydrophilic properties and it can be used to store and relay information when stored meat begins to decompose through a visible color change of the films.
Assessment of precision and accuracy of brain white matter microstructure using combined diffusion MRI and relaxometry
Authors: Coelho Santiago , Liao Ying , Szczepankiewicz Filip , Veraart Jelle , Chung Sohae , Lui Yvonne W. , Novikov Dmitry S. , Fieremans Els
Published: June 2024

Joint modeling of diffusion and relaxation has seen growing interest due to its potential to provide complementary information about tissue microstructure. For brain white matter (WM), we designed an optimal diffusion‐relaxometry MRI protocol that samples multiple b‐values, B‐tensor shapes, and echo times (TE). This variable‐TE protocol (27 min) has as subsets a fixed‐TE protocol (15 min) and a two‐shell dMRI protocol (7 min), both characterizing diffusion only. We assessed the sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility of these protocols with synthetic experiments and in six healthy volunteers. Compared with the fixed‐TE protocol, the variable‐TE protocol enables estimation of the free water fraction while also capturing compartmental relaxation times. Jointly measuring diffusion and relaxation offers increased sensitivity and specificity to microstructure parameters in brain WM with voxelwise coefficients of variation below 10%.
The interplay between white adipose tissue, adipokines, and structural gray matter changes
Authors: Okudzhava Liana , Schulz Stephanie , Pilorz Violetta , Oster Henrik , Fischi‐Gomez Elda , Girard Gabriel , Machann Jürgen , Thiran Jean‐Philippe , Münte Thomas F. , Heldmann Marcus
Published: June 2024

The growing global obesity issue emphasizes the importance of understanding its health implications. Previous research has identified consistent alterations in gray matter (GM) volume in connection with obesity. Given the various implications of distinct fat compartments and the potential role of adipose tissue‐derived adipokines in brain health, a more detailed investigation of adiposity is required. This study investigates a sample of 65 males with varying body mass indices to explore the relationship between various fat compartments, adipokine levels, and volumetric GM variations, aiming to provide a deeper understanding of the interplay between adiposity, brain structure, and metabolic signals. Whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to assess total, visceral, and subcutaneous adipose tissue, while MR spectroscopy was performed to capture liver fat content. For the assessment of adipokine levels leptin and adiponectin concentrations were measured, and structural brain images underwent cortical and subcortical segmentation for GM volume and thickness. A predictive modeling approach with leave‐one‐out cross‐validation was used to predict body composition metrics and adipokine levels based on structural GM data. Our investigation revealed diminished GM volume and thickness correlated with elevated leptin levels in areas crucial for appetite regulation, decision‐making, and cognitive control, including the anterior insula, orbitofrontal cortex, and anterior cingulate cortex. These findings suggest a potential adverse impact of heightened leptin concentrations on brain health and eating habits. Contrary to expectations, our investigation found no significant relationship between GM volume and any of the measured fat compartments. This result prompts the need for further research to elucidate the relationship between obesity, adipokines, and brain structure.
17β‐Estradiol reduces inhibitory synaptic currents in entorhinal cortex neurons through G protein‐coupled estrogen receptor‐1 activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase
Authors: Batallán Burrowes Ariel A. , Moisan Élyse , Garrone Aurelie , Buynack Lauren M. , Chapman C. Andrew
Published: June 2024

Estrogens are believed to modulate cognitive functions in part through the modulation of synaptic transmission in the cortex and hippocampus. Administration of 17β‐estradiol (E2) can rapidly enhance excitatory synaptic transmission in the hippocampus and facilitate excitatory synaptic transmission in rat lateral entorhinal cortex via activation of the G protein‐coupled estrogen receptor‐1 (GPER1). To assess the mechanisms through which GPER1 activation facilitates synaptic transmission, we assessed the effects of acute 10 nM E2 administration on pharmacologically isolated evoked excitatory and inhibitory synaptic currents in layer II/III entorhinal neurons. Female Long‐Evans rats were ovariectomized between postnatal day (PD) 63 and 74 and implanted with a subdermal E2 capsule to maintain continuous low levels of E2. Electrophysiological recordings were obtained between 7 and 20 days after ovariectomy. Application of E2 for 20 min did not significantly affect AMPA or NMDA receptor‐mediated excitatory synaptic currents. However, GABA receptor‐mediated inhibitory synaptic currents (IPSCs) were markedly reduced by E2 and returned towards baseline levels during the 20‐min washout period. The inhibition of GABA‐mediated IPSCs was blocked in the presence of the GPER1 receptor antagonist G15. GPER1 can modulate protein kinase A (PKA), but blocking PKA with intracellular KT5720 did not prevent the E2‐induced reduction in IPSCs. GPER1 can also stimulate extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), a negative modulator of GABAA receptors, and blocking activation of ERK with PD90859 prevented the E2‐induced reduction of IPSCs. E2 can therefore result in a rapid GPER1 and ERK signaling‐mediated reduction in GABA‐mediated IPSCs. This provides a novel mechanism through which E2 can rapidly modulate synaptic excitability in entorhinal layer II/III neurons and may also contribute to E2 and ERK‐dependent alterations in synaptic transmission in other brain areas.
Identifying forms of after‐hours information communication technology use and their role in psychological detachment: An episodic approach
Authors: Chen Adela , Conroy Samantha A. , Crain Tori L.
Published: June 2024

Employees increasingly conduct work outside of traditional work hours via information communication technologies (ICTs). There is a need to understand how after‐hours ICT use relates to well‐being, given that such connectivity has become unavoidable. We implement an episodic, event‐contingent design to evaluate the association between different ICT media (i.e., e‐mail, phone call, chat app, short message service) and the within‐person outcomes of psychological detachment as partially mediated by task productivity. A daily diary survey was collected over three consecutive workdays to capture after‐hours ICT use. Daily surveys were completed by 498 individuals, with a total of 1494 episodes being captured of after‐hours work ICT engagement. Our results indicate that while engagement with any form of ICT after hours reduces psychological detachment, email and chat apps are associated with the lowest levels of psychological detachment. Moreover, whereas the use of asynchronous ICT has positive main effects on episode‐related task productivity, the use of synchronous ICT (e.g., phone) only enhances episode‐related task productivity when there are high organizational expectations for employees' responsiveness after hours.
Learning from farmers' knowledge on participatory irrigation management using Q‐methodology
Authors: Kimbowa George , Wanyama Joshua , Mukaya Muhmoud , Otim Daniel , Awio Thomas , Mugisha Moses
Published: June 2024

To sustain the performance of irrigation schemes, it is important to involve all stakeholders and enhance their management capacity. Using the Q‐methodological approach, drivers of farmers' perceptions of the management of public irrigation schemes were explored, taking the Doho rice irrigation scheme as a case study. Thirty‐nine male and female scheme farmers were selected from all 11 blocks based on the total number of Q‐set items. For each participant, an after‐Q‐sort interview was conducted to verify the Q‐sorting data. Farmers perceived that the establishment of a cooperative society, rehabilitation of the scheme and implementation of punishments for water‐user fee defaulters are among the major factors in improving the performance of the scheme and thus the general increase in rice yield. However, there is a need to improve scheme performance by introducing new technology, capacity building through training and incentives. Based on the Q‐sorting data analysis, four discourses were identified and summarized: (1) paying farmers; (2) disengaged farmers; (3) maintenance farmers; and (4) accountable farmers. All these factors contribute to key management challenges and thus to scheme performance. Local knowledge of the performance of existing schemes based on farmers' experiences is instrumental in guiding policy‐making towards sustaining planned irrigation schemes and thus contributes to improved agricultural production and livelihoods.
Pancreatic β cell models for screening insulin secretagogues and cytotoxicity
Authors: Potdar Pranjali , Kharat Avinash , Sanap Avinash , Kheur Supriya , Bhonde Ramesh
Published: June 2024

In the past 2–3 decades, numerous attempts have been made to create an insulin‐secreting β cell line that maintains normal insulin secretion. However, primary β cell cultures have finite life and, therefore, cannot be used for long‐term experiments. The most widely used insulin‐secreting cell lines are Insulinoma‐1, rat insulinoma cell line, hamster pancreatic β cell line, mouse insulinoma, and β tumor cell line. Insulinoma‐derived cell lines show infinite growth in tissue culture but exhibit varying differences in their insulin responsiveness to glucose levels compared to normal β cells. Despite difficulties with β cell cultures, these cell lines have offered some useful insights in diabetes research concerning physiological functions and pathological investigations. In this review, we describe insulinoma cell lines used for drug screening, insulin secretion, cell viability, proliferation, and other relevant cellular functions. In addition, we have also incorporated recently developed human β cell lines. These cell lines have provided some helpful insights into physiological activities and pathology in diabetes research, despite challenges with β cell culturing. We propose that these cell lines could also be explored for screening Ayurvedic Rasayanas and homeopathy preparations for their cytotoxicity and insulin secretagogue activities to have evidence‐based data on alternative and complementary medicines.
Probing polarization response of monolayer cell cultures with entangled photon pairs
Authors: Zhang L. , Besaga V. R. , Rühl P. , Zou C. , Heinemann S. H. , Wang Y. , Setzpfandt F.
Published: June 2024

This study addresses the critical need for high signal‐to‐noise ratio in optical detection methods for biological sample discrimination under low‐photon‐flux conditions to ensure accuracy without compromising sample integrity. We explore polarization‐based probing, which often excels over intensity modulation when assessing a specimen's morphology. Leveraging non‐classical light sources, our approach capitalizes on sub‐Poissonian photon statistics and quantum correlation‐based measurements. We present a novel, highly sensitive method for probing single‐layer cell cultures using entangled photon pairs. Our approach demonstrates potential for monolayer cell analysis, distinguishing between two types of monolayer cells and their host medium. The experimental results highlight our method's sensitivity, showcasing its potential for biological sample detection using quantum techniques, and paving the way for advanced diagnostic methodologies.
Selective induction of senescence in cancer cells through near‐infrared light treatment via mitochondrial modulation
Authors: Kalampouka I. , Mould R. R. , Botchway S. W. , Mackenzie A. M. , Nunn A. V. , Thomas E. L. , Bell J. D.
Published: June 2024

Photobiomodulation, utilising non‐ionising light in the visible and near‐infrared (NIR) spectrum, has been suggested as a potential method for enhancing tissue repair, reducing inflammation and possibly mitigating cancer‐therapy‐associated side effects. NIR light is suggested to be absorbed intracellularly, mainly by chromophores within the mitochondria. This study examines the impact of 734 nm NIR light on cellular senescence. Cancer (MCF7 and A549) and non‐cancer (MCF10A and IMR‐90) cell populations were subjected to 63 mJ/cm2 NIR‐light exposure for 6 days. Senescence levels were quantified by measuring active senescence‐associated beta‐galactosidase. Exposure to NIR light significantly increases senescence levels in cancer (10.0%–203.2%) but not in non‐cancer cells (p > 0.05). Changes in senescence were associated with significant modulation of mitochondrial homeostasis, including increased levels of reactive oxygen species (p < 0.05) and mitochondrial membrane potential (p < 0.05) post‐NIR‐light treatment. These results suggest that NIR light modulates cellular chemistry, arresting the proliferation of cancer cells via senescence induction while sparing non‐cancer cells.
Diagnostic application in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic retinopathy rats: A study based on Raman spectroscopy and machine learning
Authors: Xiao Kunhong , Li Li , Chen Yang , Lin Rong , Wen Boyuan , Wang Zhiqiang , Huang Yan
Published: June 2024

Vision impairment caused by diabetic retinopathy (DR) is often irreversible, making early‐stage diagnosis imperative. Raman spectroscopy emerges as a powerful tool, capable of providing molecular fingerprints of tissues. This study employs RS to detect ex vivo retinal tissue from diabetic rats at various stages of the disease. Transmission electron microscopy was utilized to reveal the ultrastructural changes in retinal tissue. Following spectral preprocessing of the acquired data, the random forest and orthogonal partial least squares‐discriminant analysis algorithms were employed for spectral data analysis. The entirety of Raman spectra and all annotated bands accurately and distinctly differentiate all animal groups, and can identify significant molecules from the spectral data. Bands at 524, 1335, 543, and 435 cm−1 were found to be associated with the preproliferative phase of DR. Bands at 1045 and 1335 cm−1 were found to be associated with early stages of DR.
First fluorescent sensor for lutein in aqueous media based on thiosemicarbazide‐bridged bis‐tetraphenylethylene
Authors: Jiang Shengjie
Published: June 2024

This work designed and synthesized the first organic fluorescent sensor for lutein in aqueous solutions based on blue to yellow fluorescence change of thiosemicarbazide‐bridged bis‐tetraphenylene (Bis‐TPE). By condensing monohydroxy tetraphenylene derivatives with p‐phenylene di‐isothiocyanate, Bis‐TPE was produced. A fluorescence spectrophotometer was used to scan the fluorescence emission spectra from 380 to 700 nm with 360 nm as the excitation wavelength. The fluorescence spectra showed that Bis‐TPE exhibited high selective sensing ability for lutein in aqueous medium, and the fluorescence showed red‐shift phenomenon with a limit of detection as low as 0.26 μM for lutein. The sensing mechanism was confirmed by mass spectrometry, infrared, and fluorescence Job's plots based on the 1:1 stoichiometric ratio of double hydrogen bonding. The successful application of Bis‐TPE in sensing test strips means that Bis‐TPE can achieve efficient detection of lutein in complex environments. As a result, an aggregation‐induced luminescence‐based lutein fluorescence sensor was constructed, which exhibited highly selective and sensitive sensing of lutein, and provided a new research idea for the object detection of such structures.
On oriented m $m$‐semiregular representations of finite groups
Authors: Du Jia‐Li , Feng Yan‐Quan , Bang Sejeong
Published: June 2024

A finite group admits an oriented regular representation if there exists a Cayley digraph of such that it has no digons and its automorphism group is isomorphic to . Let be a positive integer. In this paper, we extend the notion of oriented regular representations to oriented ‐semiregular representations using ‐Cayley digraphs. Given a finite group , an ‐Cayley digraph of is a digraph that has a group of automorphisms isomorphic to acting semiregularly on the vertex set with orbits. We say that a finite group admits an oriented ‐semiregular representation (OSR for short) if there exists an ‐Cayley digraph of such that it has no digons and is isomorphic to its automorphism group. Moreover, if is regular, that is, each vertex has the same in‐ and out‐valency, we say is a regular oriented ‐semiregular representation (regular OSR for short) of . In this paper, we classify finite groups admitting a regular OSR or an OSR for each positive integer .
Novel ferrocene cyclopalladated compounds: Synthesis, and in‐vitro antitumor activity study
Authors: Zou Yajun , Lu Xiangyu , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zhao Gang
Published: June 2024

Metal complexes have a significant impact on the treatment of human cancer. However, the scarcity of these compounds, resulting from their limited synthesis, hinders the comprehensive investigation of their anticancer mechanisms. Organic palladium compounds, known for their distinctive stability and properties, are thus an essential area of research in the development of anti‐tumor therapy. In our study, we synthesized two novel ferrocene cyclopalladated compounds (C2 and C4). Its configuration was thoroughly characterized by employing 1H, 13C NMR, ESI‐MS, and elemental analysis techniques. The molecular structures were determined by X‐ray single‐crystal diffraction. In an in vitro anticancer study, it was observed that both C2 and C4 exhibited excellent suppression of viability in various tumor cell lines. These compounds showed better potency than cisplatin and demonstrated lower toxicity in normal cells. Particularly, C4 displayed approximately 22 times greater potency than cisplatin in suppressing melanoma cells (B16F10). Our study suggests that ferrocene cyclopalladated compounds have the potential to be promising candidates for the development of innovative anticancer drugs.
Assessing age of onset and clinical symptoms over time in patients with heterozygous pathogenic DHDDS variants
Authors: Muffels I. J. J. , Sadek M. , Kozicz T. , Morava E.
Published: June 2024

Mono‐allelic DHDDS variants are associated with seizures, intellectual disability, and movement disorders. The age of onset and progression rates of symptoms vary greatly among patients, spanning from infancy to late adulthood. Yet, the reasons behind this clinical variability and the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease have remained elusive. We investigated the age of onset and the progression of symptoms over time in 59 patients with heterozygous DHDDS variants, drawing from medical literature and incorporating five previously unreported cases from the FCDGC Natural History Study. Clinical symptoms typically emerged early in life. Ataxia, tremor, dystonia, and dyskinesia manifested slightly later in childhood. Global developmental delay usually presented as the initial symptom. We observed diverse rates of symptom accumulation over time: some patients exhibited the full spectrum of symptoms in early childhood, while others developed novel symptoms well into adulthood. Interestingly, neither the sex nor the underlying DHDDS variants correlated with the age of symptom onset or specific clinical symptoms. Additionally, we found that 19% of patients presented with autism spectrum disorder. This study offers insight into the age of symptom onset and the rate of symptom accumulation in patients with DHDDS variants. We found no correlation between the age of onset and progression of clinical symptoms with specific DHDDS variants or patient sex. Autism spectrum disorder is common in patients and warrants attention in clinical management.
Postoperative decrease in Hounsfield unit values at adjacent vertebrae after thoraco‐pelvic fusion as a risk factor of proximal junctional kyphosis
Authors: Tsuchiya Koki , Okano Ichiro , Dodo Yusuke , Hayakawa Chikara , Yamamura Ryo , Maruyama Hiroshi , Yasukawa Taiki , Shirahata Toshiyuki , Kudo Yoshifumi
Published: June 2024

Proximal junctional kyphosis and failure is a common complication of adult spinal deformity surgery, with osteoporosis as a risk factor. This retrospective study investigated the influence of long thoracolumbar fusion with pelvic fixation on regional bone density of adjacent vertebrae (Hounsfield units on computed tomography) and evaluated the association between bone loss and the incidence of proximal junctional kyphosis and failure. Patients who underwent long thoracolumbar fusion (pelvis to T10 or above) or single‐level posterior lumbar interbody fusion (control group) between 2016 and 2022 were recruited. Routine computed tomography preoperatively and within 1–2 weeks postoperatively was performed. Postoperative changes in Hounsfield unit values in the vertebrae at one and two levels above the uppermost instrumented vertebrae (UIV + 1 and UIV + 2) were evaluated. Overall, 127 patients were recruited: 45 long fusion (age, 73.9 ± 5.6 years) and 82 proximal junctional kyphosis and failure (age, 72.5 ± 9.3 years). Postoperative computed tomography was performed at a median [interquartile range] of 3.0 [1.0–7.0] and 4.0 [1.0–7.0] days, respectively. In both groups, Hounsfield unit values at UIV + 2 were significantly decreased postoperatively. In the long‐fusion group, Hounsfield unit values at UIV + 1 and UIV + 2 were significantly lower in patients with proximal junctional kyphosis and failure (within 18 months postoperatively) than in those without proximal junctional kyphosis and failure. Proximal junctional kyphosis and failure and long thoraco‐pelvic fusion negatively affect regional Hounsfield unit values at adjacent levels immediately after surgery. Patients with subsequent proximal junctional kyphosis and failure show greater postoperative bone loss at adjacent levels than those without.