bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurocognitive Dynamics of Preparatory and Adaptive Cognitive Control: Insights from Mass-Univariate and Multivariate Pattern Analysis of EEG data
Authors: García Alanis José C. , Güth Malte R. , Chavanon Mira-Lynn , Peper Martin
Published: October 2023

Cognitive control encompasses a set of basic perceptual and reasoning processes that help us align thoughts and actions with goals. While a growing body of research indicates that these processes can be independently engaged and tuned to fit different tasks (e.g., behavioural preparation vs behavioural adaptation), the dynamic interplay of these processes and their functional timing within the information stream, remains elusive. In this study, we used a combination of mass-univariate and multivariate pattern analysis to examine electroencephalography data from 52 participants, recorded during performance of the Dot Pattern Expectancy Task (DPX), a task designed to assess both preparatory and adaptive cognitive control. Contrary to the notion of isolated neural signatures for either cognitive control mode, our data indicates that cognitive control engages a sequence of distinct yet partially overlapping brain activation patterns. Preparatory cue-stimuli evoked early transient occipital-parietal amplitude responses that were followed by enhanced sustained central-parietal and fronto-central amplitude responses. Similarly, adaptive probe-stimuli evoked enhanced early transient occipital-parietal amplitude responses, but these were followed by enhanced transient, fronto-central and central parietal amplitude responses. Moreover, we found significant relationships between the magnitude of the central-parietal and fronto-central amplitude response pattern and behavioural performance in the DPX. This research not only extends prior work but also offers valuable insights into the functional timing and organisation of the neurocognitive processes underpinning both preparatory and adaptive cognitive control.
Using an ODE model to separate Rest and Task signals in fMRI
Authors: Kashyap Amrit , Geenjaar Eloy , Bey Patrik , Dhindsa Kiret , Glomb Katharina , Plis Sergey , Keilholz Shella , Ritter Petra
Published: October 2023

Cortical activity results from the interplay between network-connected regions that integrate information and stimulus-driven processes originating from sensory motor networks responding to specific tasks. Separating the information due to each of these components has been challenging, and the relationship as measured by fMRI in each of these cases Rest (network) and Task (stimulus driven) remains a significant outstanding question in the study of large-scale brain dynamics. In this study, we developed a network ordinary differential equation (ODE) model using advanced system identification tools to analyze fMRI data from both rest and task conditions. We demonstrate that task-specific ODEs are essentially a subset of rest-specific ODEs across four different tasks from the Human Connectome Project. By assuming that task activity is a relative complement of rest activity, our model significantly improves predictions of reaction times on a trial-by-trial basis, leading to a 9%increase in explanatory power (R2) across all 14 tested subtasks. Our findings establish the principle of the Active Cortex Model, which posits that the cortex is always active and that Rest State encompasses all processes, while certain subsets of processes get elevated to perform specific task computations. This study offers a crucial perspective on the nature of large-scale brain dynamics and introduces one of the first models to causally link large-scale brain activity, equations representing these dynamics, and behavioral variables within a single framework.
Neuroimaging genomics as a window into the evolution of human sulcal organization
Authors: Goltermann Ole , Alagöz Gökberk , Molz Barbara , Fisher Simon E.
Published: October 2023

Primate brain evolution has involved prominent expansions of the cerebral cortex, with largest effects observed in the human lineage. Such expansions were accompanied by fine-grained anatomical alterations, including increased cortical folding. However, the molecular bases of evolutionary alterations in human sulcal organisation are not yet well understood. Here, we integrated data from recently completed large-scale neuroimaging genetic analyses with annotations of the human genome relevant to various periods and events in our evolutionary history. These analyses identified single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) heritability enrichments in foetal brain human-gained enhancer elements for a number of sulcal structures, including the central sulcus, which is implicated in human hand dexterity. We zeroed-in on a genomic region which harbours DNA variants associated with left central sulcus shape, a human-gained enhancer element, and genetic loci involved in neurogenesis includingZIC4, to illustrate the value of this approach for probing the complex factors contributing to human sulcal evolution.
Soil fungi remain active and invest in storage compounds during drought independent of future climate conditions
Authors: Canarini Alberto , Fuchslueger Lucia , Schnecker Jörg , Metze Dennis , Nelson Daniel B. , Kahmen Ansgar , Watzka Margarete , Pötsch Erich M. , Schaumberger Andreas , Bahn Michael , Richter Andreas
Published: October 2023

Microbial growth is central to soil carbon cycling. However, how microbial communities grow under climate change is still largely unexplored. In an experiment simulating future climate conditions (increased atmospheric CO2and temperature) and drought, we traced2H or18O applied via water-vapor exchange into fatty acids or DNA, respectively, allowing to measure community- and group-level adjustments in soil microbial physiology (replication, storage product synthesis, and carbon use efficiency, CUE). We show, that while overall community-level growth decreased by half during drought, fungal growth remained stable demonstrating an astonishing resistance of fungal activity against soil moisture changes. In addition, fungal investment into storage triglycerides increased more than five-fold under drought. CUE (the balance between anabolism and catabolism) was unaffected by drought but decreased in future climate conditions. Our results highlight that accounting for different growth strategies can foster our understanding of soil microbial contribution to C cycling and feedback to climate change.
Neural signatures of stress susceptibility and resilience in the amygdala-hippocampal network
Authors: Xia Frances , Fascianelli Valeria , Vishwakarma Nina , Ghinger Frances Grace , Fusi Stefano , Kheirbek Mazen A
Published: October 2023

The neural dynamics that underlie divergent anhedonic responses to stress remain unclear. Here, we identified neuronal dynamics in an amygdala-hippocampal circuit that distinguish stress resilience and susceptibility. In a reward-choice task, basolateral amygdala (BLA) activity in resilient mice showed enhanced discrimination of upcoming reward choices. In contrast, a rumination-like signature emerged in the BLA of susceptible mice; a linear decoder could classify the intention to switch or stay on a previously chosen reward. Spontaneous activity in the BLA of susceptible mice was higher dimensional than controls, reflecting the exploration of a larger number of distinct neural states. Manipulation of vCA1-BLA inputs rescued dysfunctional neural dynamics and anhedonia in susceptible mice, suggesting that targeting this pathway can enhance BLA circuit function and ameliorate of depression-related behaviors.

One-Sentence Summary

Identification and rescue of dysfunctional vCA1-BLA population dynamics and behavior in stress-susceptible mice.
Learning gene networks under SNP perturbation using SNP and allele-specific expression data
Authors: Yoon Jun Ho , Kim Seyoung
Published: October 2023

Allele-specific expression quantification from RNA-seq reads provides opportunities to study the control of gene regulatory networks bycis-acting andtrans-acting genetic variants. Many existing methods performed a single-gene and single-SNP association analysis to identify expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs), and placed the eQTLs against known gene networks for functional interpretation. Instead, we view eQTL data as a capture of the effects of perturbation of gene regulatory system by a large number of genetic variants and reconstruct a gene network perturbed by eQTLs. We introduce a statistical framework called CiTruss for simultaneously learning a gene network andcis-acting andtrans-acting eQTLs that perturb this network, given population allele-specific expression and SNP data. CiTruss uses a multi-level conditional Gaussian graphical model to modeltrans-acting eQTLs perturbing the expression of both alleles in gene network at the top level andcis-acting eQTLs perturbing the expression of each allele at the bottom level. We derive a transformation of this model that allows efficient learning for large-scale human data. Our analysis of the GTEx and LG×SM advanced intercross line mouse data for multiple tissue types with CiTruss provides new insights into genetics of gene regulation. CiTruss revealed that gene networks consist of local subnetworks over proximally located genes and global subnetworks over genes scattered across genome, and that several aspects of gene regulation by eQTLs such as the impact of genetic diversity, pleiotropy, tissue-specific gene regulation, and local and long-range linkage disequilibrium among eQTLs can be explained through these local and global subnetworks.
CRISPR screens and lectin microarrays identify novel high mannose N-glycan regulators
Authors: Tsui C Kimberly , Twells Nicholas , Doan Emma , Woo Jacqueline , Khosrojerdi Noosha , Brooks Janiya , Kulepa Ayodeji , Webster Brant , Mahal Lara K , Dillin Andrew
Published: October 2023

Glycans play critical roles in cellular signaling and function. Unlike proteins, glycan structures are not templated from genes but the concerted activity of many genes, making them historically challenging to study. Here, we present a strategy that utilizes pooled CRISPR screens and lectin microarrays to uncover and characterize regulators of cell surface glycosylation. We applied this approach to study the regulation of high mannose glycans – the starting structure of all asparagine(N)-linked-glycans. We used CRISPR screens to uncover the expanded network of genes controlling high mannose surface levels, followed by lectin microarrays to fully measure the complex effect of select regulators on glycosylation globally. Through this, we elucidated how two novel high mannose regulators – TM9SF3 and the CCC complex – control complex N-glycosylation via regulating Golgi morphology and function. Notably, this method allowed us to interrogate Golgi function in-depth and reveal that similar disruption to Golgi morphology can lead to drastically different glycosylation outcomes. Collectively, this work demonstrates a generalizable approach for systematically dissecting the regulatory network underlying glycosylation.
Vaccination by single dose sporozoite injection of blood stage attenuated malaria parasites
Authors: Sattler Julia M. , Keiber Lukas , Abdelrahim Aiman , Zheng Xinyu , Jäcklin Martin , Zechel Luisa , Moreau Catherine A. , Fischer Manuel , Janse Chris J. , Hoffmann Angelika , Hentzschel Franziska , Frischknecht Friedrich
Published: October 2023

An efficient malaria vaccine remains elusive. As an alternative to malaria subunit vaccines, vaccination approaches are currently explored using livePlasmodiumparasites, either attenuated mosquito-derived sporozoites or attenuated blood stage parasites. Both approaches would profit from the availability of attenuated and avirulent parasites with a reduced blood stage multiplication rate. Ideally, such slow growing parasites would proceed normally through the mosquito but cause a self-limiting infection upon transmission. Here we screened gene-deletion mutants of the rodent parasiteP. bergheiand the human parasiteP. falciparumfor slow growth. In addition, we tested theP. bergheimutants for avirulence in mice and self-resolving blood stage infections, while preserving sporozoite formation and liver infection. Targeting fifty genes yielded seventeenP. bergheigene-deletion mutants with two mutants causing self-clearing infections in mice while retaining full transmissibility through mosquitoes. For those, infection of mice by a low number of blood stages, infected-mosquito bites or by single injection of sporozoites led to protection from disease after challenge with wild type sporozoites. Two of six generatedP. falciparumgene-deletion mutants showed a slow growth rate. Slow growing, avirulentP. falciparummutants will constitute valuable tools to inform on the induction of immune responses and aid in developing new as well as safeguarding existing attenuated parasite vaccines.
Towards disaster prevention in community centers: development of a code-based fire risk assessment tool
Authors: Hassanain Mohammad A. , Albugami Zayed A.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Community centers play a socio-economic and urban role of combining different communal necessities, that serve inhabitants, at different neighborhoods in cities. Their role emerged in importance as being a hub for improving and customizing quality of life experiences of the public. This research presents a code-based risk assessment tool for evaluating fire safety measures that can be adapted in the context of community centers. It also provides an exemplary case study to demonstrate its application.

Design/methodology/approach

The study identified the factors that render community centers as a high-risk type of facilities in fire events. Various fire codes and standards were reviewed to describe the relevant fire safety measures. A code-based fire risk assessment tool was developed and implemented, through a case study. A set of recommendations were developed to improve the fire safety conditions of the case study facility.

Findings

Several violations to fire safety were identified in the case study building. The findings led to identifying a set of recommendations to improve its fire safety conditions.

Practical implications

This research introduced a systematic approach to raise awareness about fire incidences and consequences in community centers, and provides facilities managers with a tool, to assess compliance based on international fire code requirements.

Originality/value

In fire events, community centers are considered as high-risk facilities that may lead to significant losses of human lives and damages to assets. It is significant to study the causes of fire, for ensuring effective prevention and safe operations.
The relationship between decline rate of residual renal function in the first year and mortality in peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Wu Na , Chen Sijia , Peng Fenfen , Luo Congwei , Li Peilin , Chen Yihua , Zhou Weidong , Long Haibo , Yang Qixuan
Published: October 2023

Introduction

To assess the relationship between the rate of residual renal function (RRF) decline in the first year and all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients.

Methods

Incident PD patients were divided into two groups by the corresponding RRF decline value, when hazard ratio (HR) = 1 was found by the restricted cubic spline. The associations of rate of decline of RRF in the first year with mortality were evaluated.

Results

Of 497 PD patients, 122 patients died. After adjusting for confounding factors, patients in fast‐decline group had a significant increase risk of all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality (HR: 1.97 and 2.09, respectively). Each 0.1‐mL/min/1.73 m2/month decrease in RRF in the first year of PD was associated with a 19% and 20% higher risk of all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality, respectively.

Conclusions

Faster decline of RRF in the first year was independently associated with all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality in PD patients.
Effect of hospital‐community online management on medication management of elderly patients with peritoneal dialysis during COVID‐19
Authors: Zhang Chi , Wang Jun‐Sheng , Xie Xiao‐hui
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The study aimed to explore feasibility and effect of hospital‐community online management on the medication management of elderly peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) during COVID‐19.

Methods

A total of 160 patients receiving PD were randomly divided into the control (n = 80, outpatient follow‐up management mode) and observation (n = 80, hospital‐community online management mode) groups. The self‐efficacy (General Self‐Efficacy Scale [GSES]), medication adherence (8‐item Morisky medication adherence scale [MMAS‐8]), quality of life (kidney disease quality of life short form [KDQOL‐SF]), and degree of depression (beck depression inventory [BDI]) before and after the intervention were compared.

Results

After the intervention, the scores of GSES (4.20 ± 0.46 vs. 3.09 ± 0.33), MMAS‐8 (5.82 ± 0.92 vs. 5.13 ± 1.25), and KDQOL‐SF were significantly higher, whereas the BDI score (9.50 ± 2.86 vs. 12.08 ± 2.95) was significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Hospital‐community online management presents good effects in the medication management of PD patients with ESRD.
Movement ecology of endangered caribou during a COVID‐19 mediated pause in winter recreation
Authors: Gill R. , Serrouya R. , Calvert A. M. , Ford A. , Steenweg R. , Noonan M. J.
Published: October 2023

The long‐term conservation of species at risk relies on numerous, and often concurrent, management actions to support their recovery. Generally, these actions are habitat‐based while others are focused on a species' position within its ecological community. Less studied are the impacts from human presence, despite evidence that human activity may reduce the area functionally available for occupancy or resource acquisition. In the winter of 2020/2021, COVID‐19‐related travel restrictions led to a reduction in helicopter‐assisted back‐country skiing (heli‐skiing). We examined how these reductions in heli‐skiing (termed the anthropause) affected the movement ecology and resource selection of southern mountain caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) as compared to two prior years (2018/2019 and 2019/2020) and the following year when heli‐skiing resumed (2021/2022). We found that home‐range size was on average 80–120% larger during the anthropause than in years of normal heli‐ski operations. Movement rates also varied among periods, with movement during the anthropause (11.9 km2/day) being higher than in 2019/2020 (7.8 km2/day) and 2021/2022 (8.7 km2/day), though similar to 2018/2019 (12.2 km2/day). Resource selection among periods did not differ, with caribou consistently selecting old forests, high elevations and gentle terrain. These results suggest that back‐country recreation, specifically heli‐skiing, may be limiting access to resources for southern mountain caribou. This limitation arises through reduced home‐range size within suitable late‐winter habitat, relative to when heli‐skiing is reduced or not occurring – consistent with Encounter Theory. While the demographic effects of reduced home‐range size and movement were not examined here, reduced access to resources likely compounds other stressors known to affect population viability of caribou. The results of this study demonstrate the impact that recreation can have on wildlife and highlight the need to consider heli‐skiing and other forms of recreation when developing recovery plans.
Recent trends and risk factors associated with Clostridioides difficile infections in hospitalized patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Spartz Ellen J. , DeDecker Lauren C. , Fansiwala Kush M. , Noorian Shaya , Roney Andrew R. , Hakimian Shahrad , Sauk Jenny S. , Chen Po‐Hung , Limketkai Berkeley N.
Published: October 2023

Background

Clostridioides difficile infections (CDIs) are common among patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and can mimic and exacerbate IBD flares, thus warranting appropriate testing during flares.

Aims

To examine recent trends in rates of CDI and associated risk factors in hospitalized IBD patients, which may better inform targeted interventions to mitigate the risk of infection.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis using the Nationwide Readmissions Database from 2010 to 2020 of hospitalized individuals with Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC). Longitudinal changes in rates of CDI were evaluated using International Classification of Diseases codes. Multivariable logistic regression evaluated the association between patient‐ and hospital‐related factors and CDI.

Results

There were 2,521,935 individuals with IBD who were hospitalized at least once during the study period. Rates of CDI in IBD‐related hospitalizations increased from 2010 to 2015 (CD: 1.64%–3.32%, p < 0.001; UC: 4.15%–5.81%, p < 0.001), followed by a steady decline from 2016 to 2020 (CD: 3.15%–2.27%, p < 0.001; UC: 5.04%–4.27%, p < 0.001). In multivariable models, CDI was associated with the Charlson–Deyo comorbidity index, public insurance, and hospital size. CDI was associated with increased mortality.

Conclusions

Rates of CDI among hospitalized patients with IBD had initially increased, but have declined since 2015. Increased comorbidity, large hospital size, public insurance, and urban teaching hospitals were associated with higher rates of CDI. CDI was associated with increased mortality in hospitalized patients with IBD. Continued vigilance, infection control, and treatment of CDI can help continue the trend of declining infection rates.
The macroscopical anatomy of the lungs and thorax of the African lion (Panthera leo)
Authors: Marais Carmen Alicia , Crole Martina Rachel
Published: October 2023

The left and right lungs extend from the second rib to the 13th, while only a small portion is present cranial to the 4th rib. The basal border of the left lung extends horizontally from the second costochondral junction (CCJ) to just ventral to the seventh CCJ, and then dorso‐caudally to the angle of the 13th rib. The right lung has a similar configuration except for the basal border, which is located above the fifth to the sixth CCJ. The cardiac incisure is more prominent in the right lung and is formed by the notched space between the ventral margins of the cranial and middle lobes. The lungs are well‐lobated, with complete fissures laterally but none medially. The trachea and primary bronchi are large and have a wide, thin membranous part. The muscular front limbs could limit cranial thoracic expansion, with the result that the bulk of the functional lung capacity is present caudal to the tricipital line. Recommended sites for intracardiac injections are on either side of the fifth CCJ, and for thoracocentesis, just dorsal to the seventh or eighth CCJ. Care is needed while intubating a lion's trachea because of the delicate membranous part.
The interplay between investment traits and cognitive abilities: Investigating reciprocal effects in elementary school age
Authors: Bergold Sebastian , Steinmayr Ricarda
Published: October 2023

Based on investment theories and guided by Mussel's (2013) intellect model, the present study investigated reciprocal relations over 1 year (2021–2022) between investment traits (need for cognition, achievement motives, epistemic curiosity) and fluid and crystallized cognitive abilities in 565 German elementary school children (298 girls; Mage = 8.40, SD = 0.59; 59.5% with immigration background). Children's fluid and crystallized abilities increased over time, whereas fear of failure and curiosity decreased. Investment traits barely predicted change in cognitive abilities. However, mathematical ability predicted change in most investment traits (.14 ≤ |β| ≤ .20), even after accounting for control variables. Results largely contradict investment theories but support the role of crystallized abilities for the development of investment traits in elementary school age.
SI‐CBPAR: Towards structural indicators of community‐based participatory action research
Authors: Meyerson Beth E. , Russell Danielle M. , Mahoney Arlene , Garnett Irene , Samorano Savannah
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Structural aspects of community‐engaged research are not well measured yet have critical implications for community research empowerment. This is particularly so with people who use drugs. We introduce the Structural Indicators of Community‐Based Participatory Action Research (SI‐CBPAR) to measure structural indicators of community‐research entity relationships.

Methods

A three‐phased process of iterative development, feasibility and applicability assessment was used to examine the instrument with community‐engaged studies as a first stage of instrument development. The development team included people with university, non‐government organisation and lived/ing drug use experience. Four studies on the health of people who use drugs were reviewed for indicator evidence followed by iterative discussion about construct and item discrepancies. Indicators were measured for the degree to which they were observed using a three‐point scale.

Results

All but two constructs were confirmed for meaning. Constructs of ‘community’ and ‘coalition’ required revision and explanation. The need for further exploration of power differentials between community and community‐based organisations was identified. Indicator evidence was found for all six categories across studies. The instrument was deemed applicable and easy to use. It was observed that categories could apply to studies with various degrees of community engagement and to other research focal areas.

Discussion and Conclusions

SI‐CBPAR applicability testing and initial category confirmation indicate its potential utility for community research collaboratives. The next phase of development involves cognitive interviewing with researchers from across community engaged research orientations, and with communities engaged in research beyond drug user health.
A European regulatory pathway for Tidepool loop following clearance in the United States?
Authors: Downey Laura , O'Donnell Shane , Melvin Tom , Quigley Muireann
Published: October 2023

The recent clearance by the United States Food and Drug Administration of Tidepool Loop sets an important precedent within the medical device landscape. For the first time, an automated insulin delivery mobile application—based on an algorithm initially designed and developed by users —has been recognised as safe and effective by a regulatory body. The aim of this paper is twofold: firstly, we map out the regulatory pathways and processes that were navigated by Tidepool, the non‐profit behind Tidepool Loop, in order to make this landmark moment possible. Secondly, we set out potential approvals processes in the European Union and United Kingdom with a view to examining the challenges to obtaining regulatory clearance for Tidepool Loop in these jurisdictions. In so doing, we highlight the significant differences, not only between the United States and European systems but also between the European Union and Great Britain systems. We conclude by arguing that the complexity encountered when seeking to introduce an innovative solution in different regulatory systems has the potential to act as a disincentive to open source developers from seeking regulatory approvals for such technologies in the future.
Insulin, but not adiponectin, is detectable in equine saliva using an automated, commercial assay
Authors: Barnabé Marine A. , Elliott Jonathan , Harris Patricia A. , Menzies‐Gow Nicola J.
Published: October 2023

Background

The hormones insulin and adiponectin are commonly measured in equids because of their involvement in endocrinopathic laminitis. These are currently measured in serum/plasma, although jugular venipuncture can cause stress in some animals and may be impossible in needle‐shy individuals. However, both hormones can be measured in saliva in other species.

Objectives

To determine whether [insulin] and [total adiponectin] are detectable in equine saliva using automated assays and whether saliva collection is associated with changes in stress indicators. Additionally, the correlation between serum and salivary [insulin] was investigated.

Study design

In vivo experiment.

Methods

Paired blood and saliva samples were collected from eight adult ponies at multiple time‐points (n = 45 paired samples). [Insulin] and [total adiponectin] were measured using automated assays validated for equine serum/plasma. Blink rates and heart rates were determined, using video recordings and a wearable heart rate monitor respectively, to assess the effects of sample collection on stress indicators compared with a control situation without a stressful stimulus.

Results

[Total adiponectin] was undetectable in saliva. However, salivary [insulin] was measurable with acceptable inter‐assay (1.3 ± 0.9%) and intra‐assay (1.1 ± 0.6%) variability. Blink and heart rates during saliva collection did not differ significantly from those in the control setting. Serum and salivary [insulin] were not significantly correlated.

Main limitations

Small sample size comprising native UK ponies; potential sampling bias as animals were recruited to the study partly based on their behaviour during blood sampling; saliva collected from unfasted animals.

Conclusions

Insulin is measurable in equine saliva using an automated assay currently available in the UK, but further validation and the determination of specific diagnostic thresholds are required. Saliva collection was not associated with changes in stress indicators. Further research is therefore needed to determine the potential of equine saliva as a non‐invasive alternative to blood for insulin determination.
Interactions between Helicobacter pylori infection and host metabolic homeostasis: A comprehensive review
Authors: Ye Junzhao , Feng Ting , Su Lei , Li Jin , Gong Yingying , Ma Xiaoyi
Published: October 2023

The microbiota actively and extensively participates in the regulation of human metabolism, playing a crucial role in the development of metabolic diseases. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), when colonizing gastric epithelial cells, not only induces local tissue inflammation or malignant transformation but also leads to systemic and partial changes in host metabolism. These shifts can be mediated through direct contact, toxic components, or indirect immune responses. Consequently, they influence various molecular metabolic events that impact nutritional status and iron absorption in the host. Unraveling the intricate and diverse molecular interaction links between H. pylori and human metabolism modulation is essential for understanding pathogenesis mechanisms and developing targeted treatments for related diseases. However, significant challenges persist in comprehensively understanding the complex association networks among H. pylori itself, the infected host's status, the host microbiome, and the immune response. Previous metabolomics research has indicated that H. pylori infection and eradication may selectively shape the metabolite and microbial profiles of gastric lesions. Yet, it remains largely unknown how these diverse metabolic pathways, including isovaleric acid, cholesterol, fatty acids, and phospholipids, specifically modulate gastric carcinogenesis or affect the host's serum metabolism, consequently leading to the development of metabolic‐associated diseases. The direct contribution of H. pylori to metabolisms still lacks conclusive evidence. In this review, we summarize recent advances in clinical evidence highlighting associations between chronic H. pylori infection and metabolic diseases, as well as its potential molecular regulatory patterns.
The concept of generational contract: A systematic literature review
Authors: Zechner Minna , Sihto Tiina
Published: October 2023

Major societal changes, such as the ongoing climate crisis, and the population ageing, affect the relations between generations within societies. The concept of generational contract is widely used to study these relations. However, the concept is rarely clearly defined, and the contents and terms of the contract, as well as the parties involved remain unclear. This article provides a systematic literature review on the definitions of the concept of generational contract. The literature searches were performed in June 2022 and yielded a total of 502 hits. After applying the exclusion criteria 76 peer‐reviewed research articles were included in the data. The inductive thematic analysis of the articles resulted in nine main components that define the generational contract. These nine components relate to types of contracts, parties involved, distributional issues, maintenance, value‐base and risks. Studies did not problematise the apolitical, gendered and heteronormative nature of generational contracts.
Influence of genetics on the occurrence of enamel hypomineralization affecting permanent and primary teeth: A scoping review
Authors: Teixeira Thamires Pereira de Souza , Pereira Patricia Soares Araújo , Carvalho Felipe de Assis Ribeiro , Soviero Vera Mendes
Published: October 2023

Background

Molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is prevalent worldwide and is a challenge for clinicians who provide oral care to children. Molar incisor hypomineralization has been considered a multifactorial disturbance that results from a combination of environmental and genetic factors.

Aim

This scoping review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute protocol and aimed to identify the available evidence of the genetic influence on the etiology of MIH.

Design

The search strategy was conducted in multiple databases, including PubMed, BVS, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus. Two trained reviewers, requiring a third reviewer in case of disagreements, collected evidence.

Results

Of 563 retrieved studies, 17 were included in the review. From 14 studies performed in humans, 10 investigated DNA polymorphisms, one analyzed DNA methylation, one aimed model of inheritance, and two focused on the phenotype in twins or in the family. Three animal studies were based on the null expression of genes.

Conclusion

This scoping review, based on the studies that used different methodologies, reinforces the hypothesis of a genetic contribution to the multifactorial etiology of MIH. The available data are limited in terms of size and origin of the samples. Hence, further genetic studies are still required.
Ferulic acid esterase from Aspergillus niger: purification and partial characterization of two forms from a commercial source of pectinase
Authors: Faulds CB , Williamson G.
Published: October 2023

Two forms of ferulic acid esterase from Aspergillus niger have been isolated from a commercial source of pectinase. One, designated I, has a M(r) of 132,000, is probably dimeric, and has a pI of 3.0. The second, designated II, was partially purified and is monomeric (M(r) 29,000), with a pI of 3.6. Both enzymes were free of pectinase and xylanase activity and released ferulic acid from methyl ferulate. In association with a xylanase, they also released ferulic acid from destarched wheat bran. Ferulic acid esterase II released a small amount of ferulic acid (0.09 unit/mg of protein) in the absence of xylanase. The enzymes had different specificities for a range of methyl ester derivatives of cinnamoyl and benzoyl acids, acetylated xylan and p‐nitrophenyl acetate.
Enzymic preparation of (3R‐cis)‐3‐(acetyloxy)‐4‐phenyl‐2‐azetidinone: a taxol side‐chain synthon
Authors: RN Patel , Banerjee A. , RY Ko , JM Howell , WS Li , FT Comezoglu , RA Partyka , FT Szarka
Published: October 2023

A key chiral intermediate [(3R‐cis)‐3‐(acetyloxy)‐4‐phenyl‐2‐azetidinone (2)] for the semi‐synthesis of paclitaxel (taxol; 5), an anti‐cancer compound, was prepared by an enzymic process. The stereoselective enzymic hydrolysis of cis‐3‐(acetyloxy)‐4‐phenyl‐2‐azetidinone (1) to the corresponding (S)‐(‐)‐alcohol (3) was carried out using various lipases. Lipase PS‐30 (Pseudomonas cepacia) and BMS (Bristol‐Myers Squibb) lipase (Pseudomonas sp. SC13856) catalysed hydrolysis of the undesired enantiomer of racemic compound 1, producing the (S)‐(‐)‐alcohol (3) and the desired (R)‐(+)‐acetate (2). Reaction yields of > 96% and optical purities of > 99.5% were obtained. For a very efficient enzyme source (BMS lipase), a lipase fermentation using Pseudomonas sp. SC13856 was developed. In a fed‐batch process using soybean oil, the fermentation resulted in 1500 units of extracellular lipase activity/ml. Crude BMS lipase (1.7 kg, containing 140,000 units/g) was recovered from the filtrate by ethanol precipitation. BMS lipase and commercially available lipase PS‐30 were independently immobilized on Accurel polypropylene. These immobilized lipases were re‐used (ten cycles) without loss of enzyme activity, productivity or optical purity of the product. The enzymic reaction process was scaled up to 75 and 150 litres using immobilized BMS lipase and lipase PS‐30 respectively. From the reaction mixture, compound 2 was isolated in 88‐90 mol% yield and 99.5% optical purity. A purity of 99.9 (area %) was demonstrated by g.c. for isolated compound 2.
Ethanol adaptation mechanisms in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Alexandre H. , Rousseaux I. , Charpentier C.
Published: October 2023

Determination of the membrane lipid composition of Saccharomyces cerevisiae revealed an increase in the unsaturation index, qualitative and quantitative changes in sterol content and an alteration of the activity of the plasma membrane ATPase when cells were pre‐adapted to ethanol. All these changes may constitute different adaptation mechanisms which allow the cell to cope with ethanol stress. The importance of the lipid environment on the plasma membrane ATPase activity is also discussed.
Antisense peptides to the 43‐57 region of acylphosphatase and to the 46‐60 region of two isoenzymes of a low‐M(r) phosphotyrosine protein phosphatase do not interact with the corresponding proteins
Authors: Stefani M. , Bucciantini M. , Taddei N. , Mincione G. , Manao G. , Ramponi G.
Published: October 2023

Three peptides complementary to exposed regions of two low‐M(r) phosphotyrosine protein phosphatase isoenzymes and of the acylphosphatase muscle isoenzyme have been synthesized. Each peptide was synthesized on two different types of resins; the peptides were anchored to the resins by amide linkages. The peptide resins were checked by amino acid analysis and Edman degradation and directly used for enzyme purification. Despite our attempts, none of the resins was able to bind significant amounts of the corresponding protein, indicating the lack of interaction between the three proteins and the corresponding complementary peptides. This result agrees with many other reports, confirming that the molecular‐recognition theory has no general validity.
Colour Measurement of Human Teeth and Evaluation of a Colour Guide
Authors: Rubiño M. , García J. A. , del Barco L. Jiménez , Romero J.
Published: October 2023

In the present work the colour coordinates have been obtained in the CIELAB system (L*,a*,b*) for the teeth of 600 individuals. to determine the region of the CIELAB space which contains all the different hues found in human teeth. In addition. one of the colour guides most used in dentistry has been studied to compare the hue range in this guide with the range possible in human teeth. The results show that colour coordinates of human teeth fall within an elliptical contour centered in a yellowish white. The colour guide studied did not cover all the possible values found for teeth chromaticities.
An Improved Predictor of Colourfulness in a Model of Colour Vision
Authors: Hunt R. W. G.
Published: October 2023

An improved predictor of colourfulness in the Hunt 91 model of colour vision is described. A new chroma predictor allows for the effect of the luminance Jactor of the background more effectively, and results in more consistent predictions for different viewing conditions. The new colourfulness predictor is obtained by multiplying the new chroma predictor by a factor that varies more slowly with the level of adapting luminance than was the case for the old colourfulness predictor; this results in much better predictions, whose coefficients of variation are similar to those that characterize observer consistency. The steps required for reversing the model are given in an appendix.
Linking Work and Domestic Problems With Police Suicide
Authors: Janik James , Kravitz Howard M.
Published: October 2023

We reviewed the records of 134 police officers who had undergone their first fitness‐for‐duty evaluation at our center. Fifty‐five percent admitted to previous suicide attempts. We examined possible contributing factors. A logistic regression model correctly classified 79.1% of subjects as to whether or not they attempted suicide. Results indicated that officers reporting marital problems were 4.8 times more likely to have attempted suicide, and 6.7 times more likely if they had been suspended. Interestingly, complaints of being administratively harassed were associated with a lower likelihood that an officer would attempt suicide. Variance explained due to age, race, gender, and substance use was nonsignificant.
Relationships Between Suicidal Behavior and Personality Types
Authors: Street Sue , Kromrey Jeffrey D.
Published: October 2023

This study examined the hypotheses that introversion in general and the introverted‐intuitive‐feeling‐perceiving (INFP) type as measured by the Meyers‐Briggs Type Indicator are related to suicidal ideation and behaviors. Analyses of data from 330 university students found four interactive suicidal behavior risk models: introverted‐perceiving (IP) (females); introverted‐sensing‐feeling (ISF) (males); introverted‐intuitive‐perceiving (INP) (males); extraverted‐intuitive‐judging (ENJ) (males). Study findings were interpreted in terms of implications for risk assessment and intervention.
Parasuicide and Use of Intoxicants Among Norwegian Adolescents
Authors: Rossow Ingeborg , Wichström Lars
Published: October 2023

Self‐reported history of parasiticide was analyzed with respect to use of intoxicants in a national sample of 12,000 Norwegian adolescents. The proportion of parasuicides was 8.3%, being higher among girls and among those living without both parents, and it increased with age, with use of intoxicants, depression, and loneliness. Calculations of relative risks and adjusted odds ratios demonstrated positive associations between parasiticide and use of intoxicants, and no significant gender differences were found. The findings are discussed with reference to impacts of intoxication and risk‐taking behavior.
Suicide and Homicide Rates in Canada and the United States
Authors: Leenaars Antoon A. , Lester David
Published: October 2023

Suicide and homicide rates by age were analyzed for Canada and the United States, indicating that suicide is higher in Canada and that homicide is higher in the United States. Results indicated a positive association between homicide and suicide rates in the United States but these two rates of death were not significantly associated in Canada. Holinger (1987) had associated the relative size of the cohort to the rates of suicide and homicide in young people in the United States. The more current data in both countries did not support Holinger's results. Using the measure devised by Easterlin (1980) and Ahlburg and Schapiro (1984)–that is, the proportion of youths aged 15–24 relative to adults aged 25–64–the correlation between the size of the youth cohort and the suicide rate of youths aged 15–24 was negative. It is concluded that the two patterns in these two countries may be explained from a historical perspective.
Physician‐Assisted Suicide: A Mental Health Perspective
Authors: Conwell Yeates
Published: October 2023

Despite their wealth of relevant clinical and research experience, mental health professionals have contributed relatively little to the active and ongoing debate about physicians assisting in the suicide of their patients. Methodologies developed for the study of completed suicide, the knowledge they have revealed, and the complex questions that remain unanswered, all must be considered. Similarly, psychiatry's extensive contributions to our understanding of the doctor‐patient relationship, fundamental to the practice of psychodynamically informed treatments, have been almost completely ignored. Mental health care providers have much to contribute to, and should become actively involved in, this important public health and policy debate.
Generational Analyses of Suicide: Baby Boomers and 13ers
Authors: Mcintosh John L.
Published: October 2023

“Generational analysis” is proposed that would consider actual cohort or generational suicide risk. Personality characteristics of different generations are discussed as they may affect suicide, its prevention, and intervention. In addition, annual suicide data for 1968–1991 are presented for the “Boom” generation (born 1943–1960) and for the young group of Americans called 13ers (the 13th generation of Americans; born 1961–1981). Results indicate that Boomers are presently 1 of every 3 suicides and 1 of every 4 Americans, while 13ers are 1 of 4 suicides and 1 of 3 in the population. Consistent with previous cohort analysis studies, these two cohorts are at greater risk than earlier generations at the same chronological age, with 13ers higher than Boomers for the ages they have thus far attained. It is recommended that researchers, theorists, and mental health professionals consider generational issues, and that suicidology expand its attention to the life cycles of generations.
The Product Interface: CROSSROADS of Communication
Authors: Beardsley Sally
Published: October 2023

ONE OF THE IMPORTANT CONTRIBUTIONS designers make to many contemporary products is the creation of an effective interface between technology and users. Sally Beardsley highlights key issues of the interdisciplinary effort needed for successful design of the perceptions at the point where technology and consumer interact. To confirm her conclusions, she illustrates her approach with a discussion of the design of a sound‐level metering device.
Cell‐type‐specific gene expression and regulation in the cerebral cortex and kidney of atypical Setbp1S858R Schinzel Giedion Syndrome mice
Authors: Whitlock Jordan H. , Soelter Tabea M. , Howton Timothy C. , Wilk Elizabeth J. , Oza Vishal H. , Lasseigne Brittany N.
Published: October 2023

Schinzel Giedion Syndrome (SGS) is an ultra‐rare autosomal dominant Mendelian disease presenting with abnormalities spanning multiple organ systems. The most notable phenotypes involve severe developmental delay, progressive brain atrophy, and drug‐resistant seizures. SGS is caused by spontaneous variants in SETBP1, which encodes for the epigenetic hub SETBP1 transcription factor (TF). SETBP1 variants causing classical SGS cluster at the degron, disrupting SETBP1 protein degradation and resulting in toxic accumulation, while those located outside cause milder atypical SGS. Due to the multisystem phenotype, we evaluated gene expression and regulatory programs altered in atypical SGS by snRNA‐seq of the cerebral cortex and kidney of Setbp1S858R heterozygous mice (corresponds to the human likely pathogenic SETBP1S867R variant) compared to matched wild‐type mice by constructing cell‐type‐specific regulatory networks. Setbp1 was differentially expressed in excitatory neurons, but known SETBP1 targets were differentially expressed and regulated in many cell types. Our findings suggest molecular drivers underlying neurodevelopmental phenotypes in classical SGS also drive atypical SGS, persist after birth, and are present in the kidney. Our results indicate SETBP1's role as an epigenetic hub leads to cell‐type‐specific differences in TF activity, gene targeting, and regulatory rewiring. This research provides a framework for investigating cell‐type‐specific variant impact on gene expression and regulation.