bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“A part of who I Am:” a phenomenological study of emerging adult leader identity through family storytelling
Authors: McCain Kate , Matkin Gina
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this phenomenological study is to explore leader identity development experiences of emerging adults at a large Midwest university and how retrospective family storytelling (Koenig Kellas, 2018) plays a role in the sense-making of the leader identity process. Through a unique, three-phase qualitative and narrative inquiry approach, this research further explores LID sense-making through retrospective family storytelling.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative phenomenology and narrative inquiry approach. Data collection consisted of three different data sets: (a) two semi-structured interviews, (b) leader artifacts and (c) journals.

Findings

The stories told by the emerging adults described how key messages influenced their identity within the context of leader identity development and their college experiences. Furthermore, a key finding in the narratives exhibited the stories emerging adults recalled in the sense-making of their leader identity centered on persevering, overcoming hardships and interpersonal connections and relationships. Findings from this research contribute to LID literature for leadership educators, researchers and practitioners in leader development.

Originality/value

The research presented in this article advances LID by using a narrative approach to explore the role of family narratives in identity development. Further, it approaches qualitative work with rigorous data collection and analysis processing using a cross-case analysis to develop leader identity archetypes. This study directly impacts those who work with emerging adult college students and supports the development of college student leaders.
The effect of ChatGPT on EFL students' social and emotional learning
Authors: Bin-Hady Wagdi Rashad Ali , Ali Jamal Kaid Mohammed , Al-humari Mustafa Ahmed
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT) has become everyone’s talk. It frightens many professionals, who worry about losing their jobs. ChatGPT may reconstruct some professions; some occupations may vanish while new ones may appear.

Design/methodology/approach

This mixed-methods study explores whether and how the use of ChatGPT impacts English is taught as a foreign language (EFL) students' social and emotional learning (SEL). The study used a questionnaire and collected perception data from 57 EFL students. A discussion with seven EFL professors was also formulated to triangulate the findings.

Findings

Results indicate that EFL students have high positive perceptions of using ChatGPT in their learning (M = 3.87). Results also showed that using ChatGPT has a moderate impact on EFL students' SEL (R = 514). This moderate effect was confirmed by the qualitative findings, which indicated that ChatGPT positively impacts EFL students' SEL by allowing them to practice conversation skills, aiding them in managing their emotional intelligence, providing them with feedback and reducing their anxiety. However, findings also indicated that ChatGPT reduces students' creativity and limits their emotional growth. Finally, the findings reported that for better use of ChatGPT, supervision is key.

Originality/value

This study recommends the use of ChatGPT in a way that helps students' creativity and emotional growth.
Opportunities in promoting teacher ethics in Tanzania’s public primary schools through quality school-based professional development programmes
Authors: Shuma Jubilate Rogathe , Anangisye William A.L. , Kinyota Mjege
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to unveil opportunities for promoting teacher ethics through quality school-based professional development (S-BPD) programmes to improve teachers’ ethical conduct in Tanzanian primary schools.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study uses an institutional ethnography design. The data were collected through interviews, focus group discussion, observation and documentary review. Data analysis was guided by Braun and Clarke’s (2006) framework of thematic analysis.

Findings

Opportunities to promote teacher ethics drew on quality S-BPD programmes. These opportunities include interactions with morally committed teachers, introduction of the civic and moral subject, prevalence of teacher misconduct, ideal school leadership and development and access to affordable technology.

Practical implications

The study provides useful insights into how to reshape teachers’ ethical competences and to link theory and practice in teaching. Moreover, the study suggests school-based solutions to the problem of resource scarcity for teachers to retool their professional competences.

Originality/value

The opportunities revealed are critical for promoting teacher ethics through quality S-BPD programmes in primary schools because teacher ethics is learned. The study offers insights into how to improve teacher ethics in primary schools. It concludes that internalising these opportunities as a whole is vital, as they have the potential to promote teacher ethics in Tanzanian public primary schools.
Feasibility of airway replacement using stented aortic matrices: Bench to TRITON‐01 study
Authors: Wei Shixiong , Zhang Yiyuan , Fang Linan , Fang Lijun
Published: June 2024

Patients with long‐segment tracheal defects, deemed technically inoperable, constitute a population in critical need of airway replacement. Regardless of the underlying cause—be it benign or malignant processes—this patient category requires either a tracheal transplant or admission to a palliative care facility. Despite over 50 years of exploration in thoracic surgery and regenerative medicine, airway transplantation remains a significant challenge. Various tracheobronchial substitutes, such as synthetic prostheses, bioprostheses, allografts, autografts, and bioengineered conduits, have been experimentally tested, yet none have provided a standardized method for airway replacement. Aortic grafts were suggested by Aortic grafts have been suggested as a biological matrix for extensive airway reconstruction as a biological matrix for extensive airway reconstruction. Cryopreserved aortic allografts, because of their availability in tissue banks and the lack of need for immunosuppressive therapy, were first used in clinical applications. The TRITON‐01 study (NCT04263129) focuses on patients who received airway replacement to determine the routine applicability of this novel approach. The primary objective of this review is to provide information on advancements in the use of aortic allografts as tracheal replacements.
Growth hormone‐releasing hormone deficiency confers extended lifespan and metabolic resilience during high‐fat feeding in mid and late life
Authors: Adkins‐Jablonsky Joseph , Lasher Alexander Tate , Patki Amit , Nagarajan Akash , Sun Liou Y.
Published: June 2024

Growth hormone‐releasing hormone‐deficient (GHRH‐KO) mice have previously been characterized by lower body weight, disproportionately high body fat accumulation, preferential metabolism of lipids compared to carbohydrates, improved insulin sensitivity, and an extended lifespan. That these mice are long‐lived and insulin‐sensitive conflicts with the notion that adipose tissue accumulation drives the health detriments associated with obesity (i.e., diabetes), and indicates that GH signaling may be necessary for the development of adverse effects linked to obesity. This prompts investigation into the ultimate effect of diet‐induced obesity on the lifespan of these long‐lived mice. To this end, we initiated high‐fat feeding in mid and late‐life in GHRH‐KO and wild‐type (WT) mice. We carried out extensive lifespan analysis coupled with glucose/insulin tolerance testing and indirect calorimetry to gauge the metabolic effect of high‐fat dietary stress through adulthood on these mice. We show that under high‐fat diet (HFD) conditions, GHRH‐KO mice display extended lifespans relative to WT controls. We also show that GHRH‐KO mice are more insulin‐sensitive and display less dramatic changes in their metabolism relative to WT mice, with GHRH‐KO mice fed HFD displaying respiratory exchange ratios and glucose oxidation rates comparable to control‐diet fed GHRH‐KO mice, while WT mice fed HFD showed significant reductions in these parameters. Our results indicate that GH deficiency protects against the adverse effects of diet‐induced obesity in later life.
Species‐group responses improve our understanding of the effects of community dominants on subordinate species along a grazing gradient
Authors: Bahalkeh Khadijeh , Abedi Mehdi , Dianati Tilaki Ghasem Ali , Michalet Richard
Published: June 2024

Questions

Plant communities have been shown to include several functional groups of species that may have contrasting responses to the effects of dominant neighbours, although potentially balancing at the community level. We aimed to assess the potential of species‐group vs community‐level responses of subordinate species to explain variation in the effects of the dominant shrub Artemisia sieberi on understorey species along a grazing intensity gradient in arid steppes of northeast Iran. We also aimed to assess whether species‐group responses help explain variation in community composition.

Locations

An Artemisia steppe community in Golestan National Park (northeast Iran).

Methods

We used the relative interaction index (RII) to quantify the effects of a shrub on the cover of the 12 most frequent subordinate species. We conducted a first principal component analysis (PCA) on species RII followed by cluster analysis to group species depending on their responses to the shrub, and a second PCA on subordinate species composition.

Results

At the community level, subordinate species showed strong competition at the low grazing level, weak facilitation at the intermediate level and weak competition at the high grazing level; a unimodal pattern with a switch back to competition in extremely disturbed conditions that is inconsistent with ecological theories. However, species‐group analyses showed contrasting subordinate species responses, supporting either the decrease in competition with increasing disturbance scenario or the collapse of facilitation, but never a switch back to competition as predicted by recent facilitation theory along resource gradients. Moreover, these contrasting species‐group responses significantly explained community composition.

Conclusions

Our study provides new evidence, along a grazing intensity gradient, that communities include different species groups with contrasting responses to dominant species.
Drug–drug interactions between gender‐affirming hormone therapy and antiretrovirals for treatment/prevention of HIV
Authors: Senneker Tessa
Published: June 2024

Transgender persons face a greater burden of HIV compared to cisgender counterparts. Concerns around drug–drug interactions (DDIs) have been cited as reasons for lower engagement in HIV care and lower pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake among transgender populations. It is therefore imperative for hormone therapy, PrEP and antiretroviral therapy providers to understand the DDI potential between these therapies.

Studies of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)/emtricitabine (FTC) PrEP with feminizing hormone therapies (FHTs) show reduced plasma tenofovir concentrations, but intracellular concentrations of tenofovir‐diphosphate are not reduced. Efficacy of PrEP is expected to be maintained despite this interaction. Masculinizing hormone therapies have no effect on tenofovir concentrations but may increase FTC to a nonclinically relevant extent. No interactions between FHT and cabotegravir or tenofovir alafenamide have been demonstrated. Administration of TDF/FTC PrEP has no effect on hormone levels in transmen or transwomen. PrEP is expected to be effective and safe in transpersons and should be provided to high‐risk individuals regardless of gender affirming hormone use.

Enzyme inducing/inhibiting antiretroviral therapy may decrease or increase, respectively, the concentrations of FHT and masculinizing hormone therapy. Unboosted integrase inhibitors or enzyme neutral non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors are not expected to affect and are not affected by gender affirming hormones and can be considered in transmen and transwomen. Overlapping toxicities including weight gain, dyslipidaemia, cardiovascular disease and bone density effects should be considered, and antiretroviral modifications can be made to minimize toxicities. Interactions between supportive care medications should be assessed to avoid chelation interactions and hyperkalaemia.
Tropical timber plantations as habitat for ground‐dwelling mammals: A camera‐trapping assessment in Central Panama
Authors: Monteza‐Moreno Claudio M. , Grote Mark N. , Hall Jefferson S. , Jansen Patrick A.
Published: June 2024

Reforestation projects in the tropics often consist of plantations, typically monocultures of non‐native timber species. It has been questioned whether such plantations are suitable as wildlife habitat, but empirical evidence is scarce, especially on plantations embedded on highly disturbed landscapes. Here, we compare species richness and occupancy of ground‐dwelling mammals between five types of plantations within a single area in Central Panama, the narrowest tract of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor. We deployed camera traps at stratified random points and followed a hierarchical modeling approach to compare community composition and occupancy between plantation types. We found a total of 16 ground‐dwelling mammals in the area, most of which were small‐bodied and short‐lived, and the majority of species' occupancy probabilities were below 0.5 at any given plantation. Teak (Tectona grandis) plantations, which covered the largest area in the study, had the lowest estimated richness and occupancy, with occupancy probabilities exceeding 0.5 for just three species. Conversely, plantations of the native Pachira quinata and the non‐native Gmelina arborea, covering an area four and nineteen times smaller than Teak, respectively, had higher richness and occupancy. Occupancy values were intermediate in the Acacia and mixed plantation types. Our findings suggest that plantations embedded in lowland tropical landscapes have limited conservation value for large‐bodied mammals, and are ecologically constrained habitats for small‐ and medium‐sized mammals.
Peripheral cytokine interleukin‐10 alleviates perihematomal edema after intracerebral hemorrhage via interleukin‐10 receptor/JAK1/STAT3 signaling
Authors: Xu Yao , Wang Kaishan , Dai Yalan , Yang Wei , Ru Xufang , Li Wenyan , Feng Hua , Zhu Gang , Hu Qin , Chen Yujie
Published: June 2024

Aims

The extent of perihematomal edema following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) significantly impacts patient prognosis, and disruption of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) exacerbates perihematomal edema. However, the role of peripheral IL‐10 in mitigating BBB disruption through pathways that link peripheral and central nervous system signals remains poorly understood.

Methods

Recombinant IL‐10 was administered to ICH model mice via caudal vein injection, an IL‐10‐inhibiting adeno‐associated virus and an IL‐10 receptor knockout plasmid were delivered intraventricularly, and neurobehavioral deficits, perihematomal edema, BBB disruption, and the expression of JAK1 and STAT3 were evaluated.

Results

Our study demonstrated that the peripheral cytokine IL‐10 mitigated BBB breakdown, perihematomal edema, and neurobehavioral deficits after ICH and that IL‐10 deficiency reversed these effects, likely through the IL‐10R/JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Peripheral IL‐10 has the potential to reduce BBB damage and perihematomal edema following ICH and improve patient prognosis.
“Cold‐water” immersion endoscopic resection: Novel therapeutic technique for nonampullary duodenal lesions
Authors: Asada Yuya , Yoshii Shunsuke , Ishihara Ryu
Published: June 2024

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Factors associated with sarcopenic obesity in Brazilian adults and older people: Systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Guimarães Nathalia Sernizon , Reis Marcela Gomes , Tameirão Diego Ribeiro , de Castro Cezar Natália Oiring , Leopoldino Amanda Aparecida Oliveira , Magno Luiz Alexandre Viana
Published: June 2024

Aim

Sarcopenic obesity (SO) is characterized by the coexistence of the loss of muscle mass and function with excess adipose tissue. Its prevalence has increased concomitantly with population aging, becoming one of the most significant challenges for public health, threatening the quality of life and the physical and mental health of the elderly population.

Methods

This study estimated the prevalence and factors associated with SO among adults and the elderly in Brazil's macro‐regions, utilizing MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and the Virtual Health Library databases. Primary outcomes included SO prevalence overall and by subgroups, with secondary outcomes identifying associated factors.

Results

A systematic review of 33 studies with 10 266 participants up to July 2023 showed a 17% prevalence of SO (95% confidence interval: 13–21%), using a random effects meta‐analysis. The Central‐West region had the highest occurrence (27%). Dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (26%) and bioimpedance (6%) were the top diagnostic methods. Protective factors were chronic kidney disease and healthy lifestyles; risk factors included socioeconomic status, functionality, lifestyle, biochemical parameters, and comorbidities such as osteoarthritis and apnea.

Conclusions

The prevalence of SO in Brazil is significant, emerging as a critical public health problem. It is essential to direct attention to changes in prevalence rates in the coming years, given the rising obesity trends and the absolute increase in the elderly population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 661–674.
Linseed and xanthan gum in algae pasta: textural, sensory and antioxidant characteristics
Authors: Freire Catarina D. , Pinto Filipa R. , Almeida Daniela , Gil Maria M.
Published: June 2024

Algae and field crops can innovate and improve pasta; however, incorporation of high‐fibre materials can weaken the protein‐starch matrix. This study's aim was to verify how ratios of xanthan gum (XG) and linseed flour (LF) would influence physical, sensory attributes and bioactivity of pasta supplemented with algae. Fucus vesiculosus and Chlorella vulgaris were incorporated into durum wheat along with LF or XG. Samples were evaluated for optimal cooking time (OCT), cooking loss, colour variation, texture profile analysis (TPA), sensory evaluation, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity. XG increased cooking time and cooking loss. The phenolic content and antioxidant activity were highest in samples with LF. TPA showed texture is influenced by incorporation of algae. Sensory analysis showed that LF‐enriched pasta had better acceptance. Observations in biochemical composition and physical parameters revealed the potential to formulate dry or fresh pasta with a better nutritional content.
Changes in proteolysis and volatile fraction of nitrite‐free Italian‐type salami modified in formulation and processing
Authors: Loffi Cecilia , Cirlini Martina , Cavalca Natascia , Saccani Giovanna , Virgili Roberta , Galaverna Gianni , Tedeschi Tullia
Published: June 2024

Nitrite in meat products exerts multiple functions in terms of safety and quality, but it has been related to an increased risk of health issues, and alternatives have been investigated. In this study, Italian‐style salamis were prepared with nitrite and ascorbate (CNO2), without nitrite and ascorbate (C0) and without nitrite and with ascorbate, green tea, grape seed and olive extracts (C0A). The products showed specific features in terms of peptides, free amino acids and volatiles, according to the technology applied for their production. The variations in peptides and free amino acids are likely due to process modifications, as the applied temperature and the time needed for pH decrease. Most volatile compounds, whether generated by known biochemical pathways or by ingredients (spices), differed between salami groups. The changes detected in the chemical parameters analysed provide some insights into the impact on product characteristics due to the process changes applied to replace nitrite removal.
The effect of date (Phoenix dactylifera L.) varieties on bioactive compounds, phenolic constituents, fatty acids and element contents of date seed and oils
Authors: Younis Mahmoud , Ahmed Isam Ali Mohamed , Özcan Mehmet Musa , Uslu Nurhan , Karrar Emad
Published: June 2024

In this study, the oil amounts, bioactive components, fatty acid profiles and element quantities of the date kernels (Osailah, Rothanh Qassim, Rushudiah, Nabtat‐Ali, Sbakah) were determined. The oil quantities of the date seeds were altered to be between 3.50 (Osailah) and 5.55% (Nabtat‐Ali). The total phenolic quantities of the seeds were assigned to be between 330.83 (Rothanh Qassim) to 365.42 mg GAE/100 g (Osailah) while antioxidant activities of date seeds are assessed to be between 13.89 (Rothanh Qassim) and 38.74% (Nabtat‐Ali). The total flavonoid quantities of the date seeds were displayed to be between 4824.83 (Osailah) and 9133.17 mg/100 g (Sbakah). The (+)‐ Catechin and 1,2‐dihydroxy benzene quantities of the date seeds were established to be between 75.01 (Rothanh Qassim) and 186.02 mg/100 g (Sbakah) to 67.43 (Rothanh Qassim) and 199.89 mg/100 g (Sbakah), respectively. Oleic acid amounts of the seed oils were altered to be between 45.89 (Rothanh Qassim) and 52.55% (Nabtat‐Ali). K, P, S, Ca and Mg were the key minerals of the date seeds. Considering the bioactive components, polyphenol contents, fatty acid composition and mineral content of date kernels, it is thought that date kernel powders can be added to some foods as a food supplement.
Welfare state contract and family solidarity: Do informal carers prefer more welfare state support?
Authors: Willems Anna , Mortelmans Dimitri , Vercruyssen Anina
Published: June 2024

Since the late 20th century, a combination of sociodemographic changes and increasing costs of pensions, health and social care challenged the intergenerational welfare contract. Besides, governments have been substituting more parts of care services for informal care. Given this reality, little is known to what extent informal cares prefer a higher government responsibility. Nonetheless, they demonstrate solidarity towards other generations through their actions. In this article, we question whether the intensity of informal caregiving, expressed in hours a week, and age group affects preferences towards welfare distributions and policies supporting informal caregivers. To do so, we have used a unique dataset of stratified, representative data about intergenerational exchanges between individuals in Belgium. We only see a significant effect of high intensity caregiving on general welfare state support. For the policy that targets informal caregivers we see no differences between informal caregivers and non‐carers. We argue that informal care status or age cannot fully grasp people's preferences of welfare state support, but lies in the intersection of individual characteristics. A recent study about informal caregivers in Flanders highlighted significant differences in support needs across age groups. Notably, the persons at working age, would feel most helped by reconciliation measures such as paid informal care leave. Moreover, support needs correlated with the intensity of caregiving, as those providing 10 h or more expressed a greater need for financial support, work‐life balance policies and help from professional services (Bracke et al. Zorgenquête 2021: Inhoudelijk rapport, 2022). Recognizing the importance of different support needs of informal caregivers, underscores the necessity for comprehensive approaches in family and informal care policies to address both caregiver and recipient needs effectively.
The MADS‐box transcription factor GmFULc promotes GmZTL4 gene transcription to modulate maturity in soybean
Authors: Sun Jingzhe , Liu Yucheng , Zheng Yuhong , Xue Yongguo , Fan Yuhuan , Ma Xiaofei , Ji Yujia , Liu Gaoyuan , Zhang Xiaoming , Li Yang , Wang Shuming , Tian Zhixi , Zhao Lin
Published: June 2024

Flowering time and maturity are crucial agronomic traits that affect the regional adaptability of soybean plants. The development of soybean cultivars with early maturity adapted to longer days and colder climates of high latitudes is very important for ensuring normal ripening before frost begins. FUL belongs to the MADS‐box transcription factor family and has several duplicated members in soybeans. In this study, we observed that overexpression of GmFULc in the Dongnong 50 cultivar promoted soybean maturity, while GmFULc knockout mutants exhibited late maturity. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP‐seq) and RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) revealed that GmFULc could bind to the CArG, bHLH and homeobox motifs. Further investigation revealed that GmFULc could directly bind to the CArG motif in the promoters of the GmZTL3 and GmZTL4 genes. Overexpression of GmZTL4 promoted soybean maturity, whereas the ztl4 mutants exhibited delayed maturity. Moreover, we found that the cis element box 4 motif of the GmZTL4 promoter, a motif of light response elements, played an important role in controlling the growth period. Deletion of this motif shortened the growth period by increasing the expression levels of GmZTL4. Functional investigations revealed that short‐day treatment promoted the binding of GmFULc to the promoter of GmZTL4 and inhibited the expression of E1 and E1Lb, ultimately resulting in the promotion of flowering and early maturation. Taken together, these findings suggest a novel photoperiod regulatory pathway in which GmFULc directly activates GmZTL4 to promote earlier maturity in soybean.
The processed C‐terminus of AvrRps4 effector suppresses plant immunity via targeting multiple WRKYs
Authors: Nguyen Quang‐Minh , Iswanto Arya Bagus Boedi , Kang Hobin , Moon Jiyun , Phan Kieu Anh Thi , Son Geon Hui , Suh Mi Chung , Chung Eui‐Hwan , Gassmann Walter , Kim Sang Hee
Published: June 2024

Pathogens generate and secrete effector proteins to the host plant cells during pathogenesis to promote virulence and colonization. If the plant carries resistance (R) proteins that recognize pathogen effectors, effector‐triggered immunity (ETI) is activated, resulting in a robust immune response and hypersensitive response (HR). The bipartite effector AvrRps4 from Pseudomonas syringae pv. pisi has been well studied in terms of avirulence function. In planta, AvrRps4 is processed into two parts. The C‐terminal fragment of AvrRps4 (AvrRps4C) induces HR in turnip and is recognized by the paired resistance proteins AtRRS1/AtRPS4 in Arabidopsis. Here, we show that AvrRps4C targets a group of Arabidopsis WRKY, including WRKY46, WRKY53, WRKY54, and WRKY70, to induce its virulence function. Indeed, AvrRps4C suppresses the general binding and transcriptional activities of immune‐positive regulator WRKY54 and WRKY54‐mediated resistance. AvrRps4C interferes with WRKY54's binding activity to target gene SARD1 in vitro, suggesting WRKY54 is sequestered from the SARD1 promoter by AvrRps4C. Through the interaction of AvrRps4C with four WRKYs, AvrRps4 enhances the formation of homo‐/heterotypic complexes of four WRKYs and sequesters them in the cytoplasm, thus inhibiting their function in plant immunity. Together, our results provide a detailed virulence mechanism of AvrRps4 through its C‐terminus.
Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of skin penetration enhancer Putocrin®
Authors: Cen Zongxiao , Chen Zhiyuan , Wang Ding , Chen Xueping , Chen Junyuan
Published: June 2024

Background

Substances that can efficiently enhance skin penetration while exerting no adverse effect are useful for drug and cosmetics formulation.

Objective

To investigate the safety and enhance skin penetration efficacy of Putocrin®, a combination containing 2% isosorbide dimethyl ether, 1% pentanediol, and 0.5% inositol.

Methods

An in vitro keratinocyte cell assay using 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazolyl‐2)‐2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), and an in vitro EpiKutis® skin study adopted hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunostaining, and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) analysis were carried out to investigate the safety of Putocrin®. A pigskin‐Franz cell system experiment applied high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to compare the skin penetration efficiency of fluorescein isothiocyanate (Fitc)‐labeled tranexamic acid with or without the assistance of Putocrin®. The safety and efficacy of Putocrin® was further evaluated on zebrafish embryos.

Results

The MTT assay showed that Putocrin® at concentration ≤2.5% did not significantly affect cell viability. The in vitro EpiKutis® skin study revealed that 2.5% Putocrin® did not affect skin morphology, filaggrin content, ceramide/protein, or fatty acid/protein ratios, but significantly increased loricrin content by 86.00% (p < 0.001). The pigskin‐Franz cell penetration experiment demonstrated that Fitc‐labeled tranexamic acid could barely penetrate the skin (with penetration rate of 1.121%), while Putocrin® significantly enhanced the penetration rate up to 83.983%, which was close to unlabeled tranexamic acid (90.013%). The zebrafish embryo study showed that 2.5% Putocrin® did not exert observable toxicity and obviously assisted the skin penetration of Fitc‐labeled tranexamic acid into fish embryos. These results indicate the strong enhancing skin penetration potency of Putocrin®.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the safety as well as the strong enhancing skin penetration potency of Putocrin® for cosmetics formulation use.
A methodological workflow for quantitative colouration and colour pattern comparison reveals taxonomic and habitat‐level differences in the polymorphic fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra)
Authors: Alarcón‐Ríos L. , Álvarez D. , Velo‐Antón G.
Published: June 2024

The study of colour, including physical properties and patterns, is an essential step in comprehensively understanding the role, evolution and diversification of this trait involved in functions like survival, performance, reproductive success and communication. While quantitative studies on colour have primarily focused on colour attributes, such as hue or brightness, the quantitative assessment of how colours are distributed across an organism's body (i.e. pattern) has received less attention despite its high functionality irrespective and together with colour. This gap is particularly noticeable in amphibians, especially in highly polymorphic, continuously variable species. In this study, we use the urodele Salamandra salamandra as a study model to apply an analytical approach for extracting and quantifying colour proportions and patterns variation using the recently developed R packages patternize and recolorize to precisely describe and compare colour distribution at both taxonomic and habitat levels. We first assessed the potential application of this workflow in taxonomic studies by examining its accuracy and sensitivity in differentiating morphs, using S. s. bernardezi and S. s. gallaica subspecies. Subsequently, we applied the same analytical approach to compare colour and colour pattern shifts among population of S. s. bernardezi within an urban–forest system. Our results demonstrated that this methodological workflow effectively detects differences in colour patterns at the taxonomic and habitat levels, confirming its utility in different fields, from systematics to eco‐evolutionary studies. Furthermore, our results revealed an increased prevalence of melanistic colouration and a less homogeneous colour pattern within urban settings, contributing to the limited number of studies about amphibian colouration in anthropic habitats. We outline and discuss alternative hypotheses to explain these patterns, although further investigation is necessary to address several new questions that arise from our results.
Stem cell therapy for interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome
Authors: Shin Jung Hyun , Park Ju Hyun , Ryu Chae‐Min , Shin Dong‐Myung , Choo Myung‐Soo
Published: June 2024

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic disease with limited treatment options. Current multidisciplinary approach targeting bladder inflammation and urothelial dysfunction has limited durable effect that major surgery is ultimately required for both Hunner and non‐Hunner type IC. Various investigational attempts are underway to avoid such operations and preserve the urinary bladder. Stem cell therapy is a fascinating option for treating chronic illnesses. Stem cells can self‐renew, restore damaged tissue, and have paracrine effects. The therapeutic efficacy and safety of stem cell therapy have been demonstrated in numerous preclinical models, primarily chemically induced cystitis rat models. Only one clinical trial (phase 1 study) has investigated the safety of human embryonic stem cell‐derived mesenchymal stem cells in three Hunner‐type IC patients. Under general anesthesia, participants underwent cystoscopic submucosal stem cell injection (2.0 × 107 stem cells/5 mL). No safety issues were reported up to 12 months of follow‐up and long‐term follow‐up (up to 3 years). Although there were variations in therapeutic response, all patients reported significant improvement in pain at 1 month postoperatively. One patient underwent fulguration of the Hunner lesion after the trial, but others reported an overall improvement in pain. The analysis on phase 1/2a trial which had several modifications in protocol is currently ongoing. Despite several limitations that need to be overcome, stem cell therapy could be a potential therapeutic option for treating IC/BPS. Clinical outcome on phase 1/2a trial is important and might provide more insight into the clinical application of stem cell therapy for IC/BPS.
Dive descent rate as a buoyancy indicator to infer body condition of Weddell seals in the Antarctic
Authors: Yong Chuanji , Harcourt Robert , McMahon Clive R. , Costa Daniel P. , Huckstadt Luis A. , Hindell Mark , Jonsen Ian
Published: June 2024

Changes in buoyancy of marine mammals can be used to infer environmental changes. In multiple seal species, how “fast” an animal sinks reveals body condition changes through shifts in buoyancy as the ratio between lean and lipid tissue changes. However, quantifying similar at‐sea changes in Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddellii) has remained unexplored. Here, we present a method of inferring buoyancy of Weddell seals by monitoring descent rates from 4‐s time‐depth data, to reveal in situ insight of their life cycle. We defined a Buoyancy Indicator Segment (BIS) as the descent rate of a dive segment created with the broken‐stick method that was systematically filtered to only include characteristic nonstroking and directed travel segments while excluding lung buoyancy biases. We found that BISs predicted body condition changes in Weddell seals, being a function of dive duration, mean depth, and time‐of‐year. Descent rates quickened with troughs in early April due to postmolt muscle recovery, early July due to winter conditions, and early September possibly due to pregnancy. Each trough was followed by weight gain, with slowing descent rates reaching peaks in late May, early August, and late October. This new approach showed that determining at‐sea condition is possible for Weddell seals, deriving a powerful species and environmental monitoring tool.
The significance of serum SLC7A11 levels in the occurrence of vascular calcification in maintenance peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Wu Jing , Zhang Junling , Tang Qiong , Zhu Huixian , Chen Yan , Xiong Hua , Jiang Hongwei
Published: June 2024

Aim

This research aimed to explore the serum levels of solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) in patients with maintenance peritoneal dialysis (MPD) and its correlation with vascular calcification (VC) and clinical results.

Methods

This present prospective observational cohort study enrolled 189 patients with MPD who were undergoing regular peritoneal dialysis for over 3 months in our hospital from February 2020 to July 2022. The abdominal aortic calcification score was used to assess the VC condition of MPD patients. The serum SLC7A11, interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐1β and C‐reactive protein levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Demographic and clinical statistics were collected. All patients were followed up for 1 year and the overall survival time (OS) of all patients were recorded. All data used SPSS 18.0 for statistical analyses.

Results

Patients with moderate/severe calcification in MPD had a longer duration of dialysis, higher serum levels of phosphate (P) and calcium (Ca) and lower serum levels of SLC7A11. Spearman's analysis revealed a negative correlation between serum SLC7A11 levels and the levels of P, Ca and IL‐1β. Additionally, we observed an association between serum SLC7A11 levels and clinical prognosis as well as the extent of VC in MPD patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that dialysis duration, SLC7A11, and P were risk factors for VC in MPD patients.

Conclusion

The serum SLC7A11 levels decreased remarkably in MPD patients with moderate/severe calcification. This study may provide new targets and comprehensive approach to cardiovascular protection in patients with chronic kidney disease.

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The dynamic role of the left dlPFC in neurovisceral integration: Differential effects of theta burst stimulation on vagally mediated heart rate variability and cognitive‐affective processing
Authors: Schmaußer Maximilian , Raab Markus , Laborde Sylvain
Published: June 2024

Adapting to the ever‐changing demands of the environment requires a complex interplay between cognitive‐affective, neuronal, and autonomic processes. Vagally mediated heart rate variability (vmHRV) is positively associated with both cognitive‐affective functioning and prefrontal cortex (PFC) activity. Accordingly, the Neurovisceral Integration Model has posited a shared role of the PFC in the regulation of cognitive‐affective processes and autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity. While there are numerous correlational findings in this regard, no study so far has investigated whether the manipulation of PFC activity induces changes in vmHRV and cognitive‐affective processing in an inter‐dependent manner. In a sample of 64 participants, we examined the effects of continuous (cTBS; n = 21) and intermittent theta‐burst stimulation (iTBS; n = 20) compared to sham stimulation (n = 23) over the left dorsolateral PFC (dlPFC) on vmHRV and cognitive‐affective processing within an emotional stop‐signal task (ESST). Our results revealed that both resting vmHRV and vmHRV reactivity predicted cognitive‐affective processing. Furthermore, we found a dampening effect of cTBS on resting and on‐task vmHRV, as well as an enhancing effect of iTBS on ESST performance. Our results show no direct association between vmHRV changes and ESST performance alterations following stimulation. We interpret our results in the light of a hierarchical model of neurovisceral integration, suggesting a dynamical situation‐dependent recruitment of higher‐order cortical areas like the dlPFC in the regulation of the ANS. In conclusion, our results highlight the complex interplay between PFC activity, autonomic regulation, and cognitive‐affective processing, emphasizing the need for further research to understand the causal dynamics of the underlying neural mechanisms.
Head Acceleration Events During Tackle, Ball‐Carry, and Ruck Events in Professional Southern Hemisphere Men's Rugby Union Matches: A Study Using Instrumented Mouthguards
Authors: Roe Gregory , Sawczuk Thomas , Owen Cameron , Tooby James , Starling Lindsay , Gilthorpe Mark S. , Falvey Éanna , Hendricks Sharief , Rasmussen Karen , Readhead Clint , Salmon Danielle , Stokes Keith , Tucker Ross , Jones Ben
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Describe head acceleration events (HAEs) experienced by professional male rugby union players during tackle, ball‐carry, and ruck events using instrumented mouthguards (iMGs).

Design

Prospective observational cohort.

Methods

Players competing in the 2023 Currie Cup (141 players) and Super Rugby (66 players) seasons wore iMGs. The iMG‐recorded peak linear acceleration (PLA) and peak angular acceleration (PAA) were used as in vivo HAE approximations and linked to contact‐event data captured using video analysis. Using the maximum PLA and PAA per contact event (HAEmax), ordinal mixed‐effects regression models estimated the probabilities of HAEmax magnitude ranges occurring, while accounting for the multilevel data structure.

Results

As HAEmax magnitude increased the probability of occurrence decreased. The probability of a HAEmax ≥15g was 0.461 (0.435–0.488) (approximately 1 in every 2) and ≥45g was 0.031 (0.025–0.037) (1 in every 32) during ball carries. The probability of a HAEmax >15g was 0.381 (0.360–0.404) (1 in every 3) and >45g 0.019 (0.015–0.023) (1 in every 53) during tackles. The probability of higher magnitude HAEmax occurring was greatest during ball carries, followed by tackles, defensive rucks and attacking rucks, with some ruck types having similar profiles to tackles and ball carries. No clear differences between positions were observed.

Conclusion

Higher magnitude HAEmax were relatively infrequent in professional men's rugby union players. Contact events appear different, but no differences were found between positions. The occurrence of HAEmax was associated with roles players performed within contact events, not their actual playing position. Defending rucks may warrant greater consideration in injury prevention research.
The effect of mindfulness‐based interventions on caregiver burden, quality of life and psychological distress in caregivers of adults with chronic diseases: Systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Erdoğan Yüce Gülyeter , Döner Ayser , Bilgin Aylin , Muz Gamze
Published: June 2024

Background

Chronic diseases requiring long‐term treatment, care, and follow‐up can negatively affect the health and well‐being of caregivers. Mindfulness‐based interventions (MBIs) are increasingly used as a mental health intervention to control the psychological problems experienced by caregivers and improve their quality of life.

Aims

This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to provide evidence for a holistic evaluation and synthesis of the effects of MBIs applied to caregivers of adults with chronic disease on the burden, quality of life, and psychological distress.

Methods

Studies evaluating the effects of mindfulness‐based interventions on caregivers of adults with chronic diseases and published through September 2023 were searched using PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and EBSCO. Methodological quality was assessed with the modified JADAD scale, and bias was assessed with the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool for randomized trials. Randomized controlled studies were included. The standardized mean difference with a 95% confidence interval was calculated. Heterogeneity was analyzed using the I2 test and Q statistic. Publication bias was assessed with the Egger regression test.

Results

This meta‐analysis included 12 studies. Pooled evidence found that MBIs resulted in significant improvements in stress, anxiety, depression, and caregiver burden in caregivers of adults with chronic illness but had no significant effects on quality of life, resilience, and mindfulness. The Egger's test showed no evidence of publication bias.

Linking Evidence to Action

MBIs can be considered as a helpful method to increase psychological well‐being and reduce caregiver burden in caregivers of adults with chronic diseases. These findings may direct clinicians to conduct mindfulness‐based interventions for caregivers of adults with chronic diseases.
Overview of Design Considerations for Data-Driven Time-Stepping Schemes Applied to Nonlinear Mechanical Systems
Authors: Slimak Tomas , Zwölfer Andreas , Todorov Bojidar , Rixen Daniel J.
Published: June 2024

Artificial neural networks (NNs) are a type of machine learning (ML) algorithm that mimics the functioning of the human brain to learn and generalize patterns from large amounts of data without the need for explicit knowledge of the system's physics. Employing NNs to predict time responses in the field of mechanical system dynamics is still in its infancy. The aim of this contribution is to give an overview of design considerations for NN-based time-stepping schemes for nonlinear mechanical systems. To this end, numerous design parameters and choices available when creating a NN are presented, and their effects on the accuracy of predicting the dynamics of nonlinear mechanical systems are discussed. The findings are presented with the support of three test cases: a double pendulum, a duffing oscillator, and a gyroscope. Factors such as initial conditions, external forcing, as well as system parameters were varied to demonstrate the robustness of the proposed approaches. Furthermore, practical design considerations such as noise-sensitivity as well as the ability to extrapolate are examined. Ultimately, we are able to show that NNs are capable of functioning as time-stepping schemes for nonlinear mechanical system dynamics applications.
Biomimetic Scaled Structures - Exploring Symmetries and Nonlinearity in Structural Damping
Authors: Hossain Md Shahjahan , Bateniparvar Omid , Sarkar Pranta Rahman , Ghosh Ranajay
Published: June 2024

Fish scale-like features on substrates arranged periodically produce peculiar mechanical behavior. These include nonlinear stiffness, anisotropy in deformation, and finally jamming behavior. These smart structures can be fabricated by partially embedding stiffer plate-like segments on softer substrates to create a bi-material system, with overlapping scales. The dynamic response shows remarkable geometrical-material interplay and anisotropies in damping. Especially interesting is the damping behavior that is distinct from typical damping found in mechanical structures which are often approximated as Rayleigh-Damping. Here we discuss some of these dynamic behaviors that include material-geometry distinction in damping, multiple damping scenarios and interplay of dissipation possibilities. We performed experimental analysis and compared the results with simple mathematical laws that govern architecture-dissipation relationships that can help understand the vibrating response of pillar/scale-covered membranes/thin plates. We conclude by noting the applicability these metastructure in structural damping with other forms currently in use in practice.
Empirical analysis of a hollow cathode’s intensity distribution in the vacuum ultraviolet range
Authors: Olsen S. C. , Allred D. D. , Vanfleet R. R.
Published: June 2024

Hollow cathodes are a common type of vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) light source with a wide range of design and application. We determined the VUV (58.4 nm) intensity distribution of a hollow cathode as a function of current and pressure. Our model describes the intensity distribution of a McPherson 629-like hollow cathode helium plasma within the range of 0.50–1.00 A and 0.50–1.00 Torr as a ring with a center peak. We found that for all pressures and currents considered, the ring emits more VUV light than the center peak. We also found that the center peak has a minimum VUV light emission near 0.9 Torr.