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Directing selective solvent presentations at electrochemical interfaces to enable initially anode-free sodium metal batteries
Leveraging Information Technology tools to create cost-effective alternatives: Using Google Sheets as a platform for competitive debate and public speaking tabulation
Traditional web-based debate tabulation systems like Tabbycat, offer robust features but often pose high costs and accessibility barriers that limit participation and the smooth organization of events. In this work, we present Tab XYZ, a novel debate and public-speaking tabulation platform built on Google Sheets, as a cost-effective alternative to conventional systems. We deployed Tab XYZ’s cloud-based features like Google Apps Script automation, Google Forms for data input, real-time collaboration, to replicate core functionalities of standard tabulation software without the need for dedicated servers or paid licenses. The proposed system was evaluated in five tournaments constituting a total of 435 participants, and compared against a popular web-based platform on key metrics including setup time, user satisfaction, reliability, and error handling. Results indicate that Tab XYZ eliminated all licensing and hosting costs while achieving user satisfaction scores (overall average 4.7 out of 5) comparable to the conventional system (4.6 out of 5). Tab XYZ also demonstrated robust data security and offline-capable error recovery by leveraging Google’s infrastructure. These findings illustrate a viable pathway to leverage readily available IT tools like spreadsheets and cloud services, to create innovative solutions for specialized domains, avoiding the cost and complexity barriers of traditional approaches.
A retrospective cohort study of valproate and infertility in men with epilepsy or bipolar disorder using international health data
Abstract Valproate is highly effective at treating epilepsy and bipolar disorder. It faces prescribing restrictions in men due to concerns it causes testicular dysfunction and infertility. These mostly stem from animal models – the human evidence is limited and conflicting. We report the largest ever retrospective cohort study of infertility in men with epilepsy or bipolar disorder, using real-world healthcare data from TriNetX. 91,917 of the men are exposed to valproate, and 535,803 unexposed. Cohorts are propensity score matched for a comprehensive set of baseline covariates, and survival analysis is undertaken using Cox-proportional hazards models. No significant difference is seen between valproate-exposed and unexposed men across lifetime risks of infertility, testicular hypofunction, testicular atrophy, and a composite of low sperm concentration, motility, vitality, normal forms, and semen volume (p > 0.05). Our findings do not support an association between valproate and infertility in men with epilepsy or bipolar disorder in real-world settings.
Process evaluation of a randomised controlled trial aimed at improving health behaviours and vitamin D status during pregnancy: Implementation of the SPRING trial
Background The Southampton PRegnancy Intervention for the Next Generation (SPRING) aimed to assess the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation and the behaviour change intervention ‘Healthy Conversation Skills’ (HCS) in improving the nutritional status of pregnant women. This paper describes the implementation of these interventions. Efficacy of HCS in improving diet quality and physical activity was evaluated in subgroups of women who discussed ways to improve these behaviours. Methods In total, 717 pregnant women were recruited from a maternity hospital in Southampton, England. Quantitative data were collected using questionnaires, case report forms, and audio recordings. Following Medical Research Council guidance, fidelity, dose, and reach were evaluated descriptively. Multiple linear regression models were produced for subgroup analyses. Results Research nurses demonstrated high competence in using HCS. Compliance with intervention protocols for delivering and receiving both interventions was high. Participants took a median of 96% of the supplements and most women (85%) attended all four Healthy Conversations sessions. Women of lower socioeconomic status and from ethnic minorities were under-represented amongst participants. Findings were not sufficient to suggest an effect of HCS on diet quality among those who discussed diet but indicated a marginally beneficial effect on physical activity among those who discussed physical activity. Results suggested a weak dose-dependent effect, with the most pronounced difference in physical activity between the control group and the intervention sub-group with the highest exposure (adjusted difference 0.16 SD (95%-CI −0.03; 0.34)). Conclusion This process evaluation confirms that the intervention components were delivered with high fidelity and rates of compliance. Altering dietary behaviours proved more challenging than altering physical activity behaviours. Research is needed to explore barriers to healthy eating faced by women during pregnancy and how these can be overcome. This paper also highlights the difficulty of engaging people from ethnic minorities and disadvantaged backgrounds in research.
A polycyclic scaffold identified by structure-based drug design effectively inhibits the human P2X7 receptor
Abstract The P2X7 receptor is an ATP-gated ion channel that activates inflammatory pathways involved in diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis, and neurodegeneration. However, despite the potential benefits of blocking overactive signaling, no P2X7 receptor antagonists have been approved for clinical use. Understanding species-specific pharmacological effects of existing antagonists has been challenging, in part due to the dearth of molecular information on receptor orthologs. Here, to identify distinct molecular features in the human receptor, we determine high-resolution cryo-EM structures of the full-length wild-type human P2X7 receptor in apo closed and ATP-bound open state conformations and draw comparisons with structures of other orthologs. We also report a cryo-EM structure of the human receptor in complex with an adamantane-based inhibitor, which we leverage, in conjunction with functional data and molecular dynamics simulations, to design a potent and selective antagonist with a unique polycyclic scaffold. Functional and structural analysis reveal how this optimized ligand, termed UB-MBX-46, interacts with the classical allosteric pocket of the human P2X7 receptor with subnanomolar potency and high selectivity, revealing its significant therapeutic potential.
Correction: Genetic analysis and phytochemical profile of soursop (Annona muricata L.) cultivated in family orchards in southeastern Mexico
Disrupted cholesterol biosynthesis and hair follicle stem cell impairment in the onset of alopecia
Background Hair follicle cycle and the functioning of stem cells in alopecia are influenced by the suppression of cholesterol synthesis and the accumulation of sterol intermediates. Objective This investigation aims to elucidate the regulatory function of disrupted cholesterol homeostasis in the functioning of hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) and the cycling of hair follicles. Additionally, it seeks to provide an understanding of the fate of stem cells in primary cicatricial alopecia (PCA). Methods To evaluate the influence of cholesterol on the functionality of hair follicles, a study was conducted to analyse gene expression and pathways associated with hair follicle stem cell markers in scalp samples affected by PCA (LPP, FFA, CCCA, DC, DF, TF). To assess the influence of disrupted cholesterol homeostasis on HFSCs, we conducted experiments involving the administration of 7-dehydrocholesterol (7DHC) and BM15766 (Pharmacological inhibitor of cholesterol biosynthesis), to Human Hair Follicle Outer Root Sheath Cells (HORSCs), as well as C57BL/6 mice, and hair follicle organoid cultures. The study utilised reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to assess gene expression, while immunofluorescence was employed to analyse protein expression. The tracking of stem cell fate was accomplished through the utilisation of a BrdU pulse-chase experiment, while the verification of apoptotic consequences was established by utilising the TUNEL assay. A statistical analysis was conducted to assess the statistical significance of the data. Results There was a notable decrease in the expression of HFSC marker genes among patients afflicted with PCA. In vitro data further confirmed the cholesterol inhibition and sterol intermediate accumulation in stem cells, leading to stem cell characteristics’ disruption. The experimental group of mice exposed to 7DHC and BM15766 also exhibited a notable inability to initiate hair regrowth. Consequently, this deficiency in hair regrowth resulted in the activation of apoptosis, specifically in the stem cells. Additionally, our confirmatory analysis, which was performed utilising organoid culture, consistently yielded comparable results. The results as mentioned above emphasise the significant importance of cholesterol production in preserving the integrity and functionality of HFSCs, hence providing novel insights into the progression of alopecia. Conclusion Individuals with aberrant cholesterol production, especially those affected by PCA, endure a lasting hindrance in hair regrowth stemming from the irreversible damage to their hair follicles. The observed phenomenon is hypothesized to result from the depletion of hair follicle stem cells. Our study reveals further insights that unveil the previously unrecognized role of sterol intermediates in governing hair follicle cycling and stem cell function in PCA. The modulation of cholesterol production and the accumulation of sterol intermediates significantly influence the hair follicle cycle and the role of stem cells in alopecia.
Exploring barriers and facilitators to physical activity among children in Saudi Arabian schools: A qualitative study
Background The growing global burden of noncommunicable diseases, exacerbated by insufficient physical activity (PA), contributes to a range of adverse physical, mental, and social health outcomes. This is a significant concern in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), where cultural and environmental factors further limit opportunities for PA, particularly among schoolchildren in urban areas. Aim This study explores the challenges and opportunities related to school-based PA to inform future interventions targeting schoolboys aged 13–15 years in KSA. Methods Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 16 school staff members, seven parents and workshops involving 37 male students from two contrasting schools (one private and one public), in Jeddah City, KSA. All participants were recruited via purposive sampling. Follow-up interviews were conducted with a total of nine school staff members at both schools. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify key patterns and insights. Results This study found that PA among students was influenced by multiple factors. Individual-level motivators included enjoyment, competition, and perceived health benefits, while barriers included academic pressures and sedentary preferences. Interpersonal influences involved varying levels of support from parents, peers, and teachers. School-related factors such as the physical environment, facilities, and institutional policies also shaped PA availability. At the community-level, participants highlighted the potential for interventions that adapt international programmes to the local context. Conclusion This study underscores the need for a multi-dimensional approach to promoting PA among adolescents in Jeddah. Stakeholders should consider piloting and adapting proven international interventions, addressing disparities in school resources, increasing the time allocated for PA within the curriculum, and raising parental awareness about the importance of PA. These steps are essential to creating a supportive environment that fosters improved public health and youth well-being in KSA.
“You’re opening Pandora’s Box”: Public attitudes on AI and robotics in Australian agriculture
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics is widely expected to revolutionise agriculture. Although an emerging literature is bringing into conversation AI and agricultural ethics, there has been little attention paid to public attitudes regarding such technological change. Using data collected in 12 dialogue groups conducted across rural and metropolitan Australia, this paper examines public perceptions of the social and ethical impacts of AI and robotics in agriculture. We identify and map a diversity of views regarding the possible risks and benefits of AI and robotics, and the value of agriculture in the context of a future of ‘farmerless farming.’ Our results add depth and nuance to the existing, mostly quantitative, literature on public attitudes towards agricultural robotics and AI and constitute a valuable resource for policymakers, or other stakeholders who want to engage with public opinion regarding these technologies.
Correction: Single immersion in cold water below 4 °C: A health hazard in young healthy men?
Correction: Impact of self-perceived discomfort in critically ill patients on the occurrence of psychiatric symptoms in post-intensive care syndrome (PICS): A prospective observational study
Epistemic trust towards teacher questionnaire: Development and preliminary validation
Epistemic trust (ET) is a well-established concept in evolutionary developmental psychology. It refers to the trust recipients place in their informants, which in turn makes them more attentive, thoughtful, and engaged in processing and acquiring information. This concept plays a key role in educational contexts, as leveraging this innate mechanism could help teachers to improve learning outcomes, including those beyond the classroom. This paper describes the development and validation of a new self-report measure, the Epistemic Trust Towards Teacher (ETT) scale, designed to assess the unique role of ET in education. The study focuses on the development of the scale, its factor structure, and construct validity. The study participants were 224 middle and high school students aged 11–15 (58.5% female). Confirmatory factor analysis supported a three-factor structure with good model fit (χ²/df = 1.9; CFI = 0.970; TLI = 0.965; RMSEA = 0.062), consisting of Trust (ETT_T), Mistrust (ETT_M), and Generalisation (ETT_G) subscales. Reliability was acceptable to excellent across the three subscales (Cronbach’s α = .75–.88). The factors showed good discriminant validity and aligned with theoretical expectations. The ETT scales correlated in theoretically consistent ways with established measures of teacher-student relationship quality, working alliance, non-verbal immediacy, and student motivation. Overall, this study provides preliminary support for the ETT as a relevant and psychometrically sound instrument in the field of educational psychology. Further research is required to investigate the ETT’s performance across a wider age range and diverse educational settings.
ZBTB7A regulates CD95-mediated cell growth in colorectal cancer cell lines
Zinc Finger and BTB Domain-containing7A (ZBTB7A) is a member of the transcription factor family that regulates the expression of numerous genes involved in cell proliferation and differentiation. Ubiquitously expressed in colon, stomach, and other tissues, ZBTB7A performs diverse functions including hematopoiesis, metabolism, and oncogenesis. Here we showed that ZBTB7A knockout inhibited the growth of colon cancer cells and reduced CD95 protein expression by decreasing CD95 mRNA transcription. Overexpression of ZBTB7A could partially restore both CD95 expression and CD95-mediated downstream Caspase2 and JNK2 expression. Furthermore, treatment with ZBTB7A specific inhibitor Curcumin effectively induced colorectal cancer cell death while reducing CD95 expression. These data indicate that ZBTB7A promotes colon cancer cell growth and survival, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for colorectal cancer.
A study exploring procedures used to select and analyse microenterprises for persons with disabilities
Background Attaining the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Goals, such as fighting poverty and involving adults in work, requires the involvement of professionals such as occupational therapists. Persons with disabilities are among the adults to whom occupational therapists provide work or vocational rehabilitation services for productivity and well-being. Occupational therapists have skills such as analysing tasks to determine associated demands and requirements. The analysis ensures task feasibility, suitability, and matching of persons with disabilities. However, anecdotal evidence indicates that occupational therapists lack a systematic and practical approach to select and analyse suitable microenterprises for individuals with disabilities they serve. The objectives of this study were to address the gap in occupational therapy by exploring the i) selection of a suitable microenterprise for persons with disabilities and ii) factors to consider when analysing microenterprises to ensure successful outcomes. Thus, this study aims to explore procedures used to select and analyse microenterprises for persons with disabilities. Methods Seventeen participants participated in this exploratory qualitative research, three male. They were occupational therapists based in academia, clinical settings and learners with Special Education Needs Schools, respectively. Purposive and snowball sampling were used to recruit the participants. Data was analysed using thematic analysis using the hybrid inductive and deductive approach. Ethical clearance was issued by the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Biomedical Research Ethics Committee. Results Two themes emerged. Theme one: The process of selecting an appropriate microenterprise. This theme describes the participant’s insight into the approach to microenterprise selection, the use of the microenterprise list or options available, and the distinct features of these microenterprises. Theme two: Factors to consider when analysing a suitable microenterprise as a placement option. The theme explores microenterprise accessibility, the key role players involved, business demands, and funding availability and access. Conclusion/discussion/interpretation For microenterprise selection and suitability analysis, a comprehensive, systematic and contextualised approach is crucial to facilitate self-employment as a viable career choice. Such includes integrating a list of microenterprises found in South Africa for career choice consideration. Moreover, there are essential factors for consideration, including the involvement of various key role players, legal and regulatory frameworks, funding sources and leveraging the strengths of persons with disabilities. These factors, effectively integrated with occupational therapists’ expertise in vocational rehabilitation, can enhance the vocational success of persons with disabilities.
Correction: Spatial distribution of animal source food consumption and associated factors among children aged 6–23 months in Ethiopia: A geographically weighted regression analysis
Estimation of discrete mixed Poisson-Erlang distribution with applications to medical data
This paper discusses the estimation of the discrete mixed Poisson-Erlang distribution (DMPED). Compared to many traditional discrete distributions, DMPED offers several surprising benefits, especially when examining count data with high variation and that are positively skewed. We have explored several statistical characteristics of the assumed distribution, such as moments, the moment-generating function, the failure rate function, the monotonicity of the probability mass function, and a couple of descriptive measures (central tendency and dispersion). We have used the maximum likelihood estimation technique to estimate the parameters of the DMPED. We conducted a simulation study to validate the proposed estimators. Finally, four applications related to cancer diseases have been discussed, where DMPED (especially DMPEIID) fits the number of doses required for treatment, remission times, and therapy type comparisons.
Gut microbiome signatures in iNPH: Insights from a shotgun metagenomics study
Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH), a leading cause of reversible dementia in older adults, is marked by ventriculomegaly, gait disturbances, cognitive decline, and urinary incontinence. Emerging evidence suggests that gut dysbiosis (microbial imbalance) may influence neuroinflammation and cerebrospinal fluid dynamics, potentially contributing to glymphatic system dysfunction and ventricular enlargement. This study used shotgun metagenomics to analyze the gut microbiome in iNPH patients (n = 18) compared to healthy controls (n = 50), individuals with ventriculomegaly but no iNPH symptoms (n = 50), and Alzheimer’s disease patients (n = 50). Microbiome analysis showed an enrichment of species previously linked to various disease states, such as Enterocloster bolteae and Ruminococcus gnavus, indicating general dysbiosis. In contrast, enrichment of specific taxa, including Evtepia gabavorous and Cuneatibacter sp., were specifically associated with iNPH clinical traits, pointing to possible disease-specific microbial markers. Functional analysis showed enrichment of pathways related to carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, including the S-adenosyl-L-methionine superpathway, implicating inflammatory and immune processes. These findings suggest distinct gut microbiome signatures in iNPH, offering insights into potential gut-brain interactions that may contribute to the disorder’s pathophysiology and highlighting possible targets for future therapeutic strategies.