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Prior research in health equity, including food security, indicates that disadvantaged groups, such as women with limited resources, face many obstacles in achieving food security. One of the first of its kind to draw on intersectionality and the social determinants of health frameworks, this study identified and tested gender differences in experiencing food security inequities using nationally representative data from the Gallup World Poll, Uganda 2019 (N = 951). Binary logit models disaggregated by gender were estimated to identify gender differences in food security. Three points of intersection were categorized: individual characteristics (gender, age, region, marital status, household number of children and adults); available resources (education, income, employment, shelter, social support); and the socio‐political context (community infrastructures, corruption within the business). Testing the moderation effect of gender with each variable (difference‐in‐difference) showed that although most variables correlated with a difference in experiencing food security by gender, only two—marital status, and social support—presented a statistically significant difference. Accounting for this moderation effect, the final model showed that lacking shelter and residing in Eastern Uganda decreased food security. More adults in the household, higher education, higher income, available social support, and satisfaction with community infrastructures enhanced the odds of food security. Results suggest that (a) conventional food security quantitative approaches may not suffice to model inequities when gender is a control variable rather than a foundation to explain inequities; and (b) gendered‐centered analysis helps better identify disadvantaged groups and inform policies that target associated inequities. Key points: Using the social determinants of health framework while employing an intersectionality theoretical approach enhanced the identification of gender differences in experiencing food security inequities through new analytical approaches (i.e., difference‐in‐difference).Challenging the conventional analytical approaches that control for gender, results revealed layers of gender differences. Most previous studies narrowly focus on describing unequal food security outcomes by gender. Our study's diff‐in‐diff analysis revealed that the gender gap size differed significantly between levels of social support (social strata) and marital status (social identity), which is consistent with previous studies.This study provides evidence of the importance of including an intersectional lens in studying gender as a focal point in generating unequal experiences of food insecurity.Having shelter and being satisfied with everyday life, including infrastructure, air quality, water, healthcare, affordable housing, and education system are strong contributors to food security status, regardless of gender differences. Results highlight the importance of incorporating intermediary and structural determinants when studying food security equity and call for a more in‐depth analysis of food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of resistance to current antimalarial drugs poses a significant challenge in the fight against malaria. This study aimed to investigate the in vivo antiplasmodial potential of the aqueous extract of fresh and dried leaves of A3 in Plasmodium berghei‐infected (P. berghei) mice. A 4‐day suppressive test was conducted, with infected BALB/c mice receiving artesunate and A3 extracts. The results showed that the tested doses of A3 attenuated the elevation of parasitemia induced by P. berghei, particularly at the dose of 400 mg/kg, and improved hematological indices. Computational techniques, including molecular docking, binding free energy calculations, and ADMET predictions, identified several bioactive compounds in A3 with promising inhibitory potential against lysyl‐tRNA synthetases and Dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), the crucial enzymes targeted by antimalarial drugs. In this paper, Friedelin, Bauerenol, Epifriedelanol, Alpha‐Amyrenone, Stigmasterol, and beta‐Amyrin acetate were top‐ranked, having docking scores from −10.6 to −9.9 kcal/mol, compared with the −9.4 and −7.1 kcal/mol demonstrated by artesunate and chloroquine, respectively, as standard ligands. Also, it was shown that docking score from the Lysyl‐tRNA protein target (4YCV) ranged from −9.5 to −7.8 kcal/mol in comparison to artesunate (8.1 kcal/mol) and chloroquine (5.6 kcal/mol). The results suggest that the identified compounds in A3 could serve as potential candidates for the development of new anti‐malarial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

9‐Aminoacridine structures hold much potential for accessing small molecule therapeutics. This core is present in a range of pharmaceuticals for the treatment of ailments such as malaria, inflammation, viral and bacterial infections, and cancer. For the latter, there remains a need to develop and/or improve chemotherapeutics to counteract issues of uptake, drug resistance, and selectivity for cancer cells over healthy cells. In the design of molecules to address these issues, identifying structural units that present as promising leads for drug development is key. In this study, four 9‐aminoacridine derivatives under consideration as precursors for a drug design project are assessed for their cytotoxicity with representative cell lines PC3 and A549 and for their leadlikeness with SwissADME. Together, the cytotoxicity and in silico investigations coalesce around the same derivative as the most promising lead. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bile acids regulate gastrointestinal motility by mechanisms that are poorly understood. Standard isolated tissue bath assays might not recapitulate in vivo physiology if contractile responses to certain bile acids require direct application to the intestinal mucosa. We sought to determine the feasibility of quantifying longitudinal smooth muscle contractile responses to bile acids from intact segments of everted mouse ileum. Ileum from adult female C57BL/6J mice was isolated, gently everted over a notched metal rod, and mounted in tissue baths. Individual bile acids and agonists of bile acid receptors were added to the baths, and longitudinal smooth muscle contractile responses were quantified by isometric force transduction. Ursodeoxycholic acid robustly increased contractile responses in a dose‐dependent manner. Deoxycholic acid stimulated contractility at low doses but inhibited contractility at high doses. Chenodeoxycholic acid, glycocholic acid, and lithocholic acid did not alter contractility. The dose‐dependent increase in contractility resulting from the application of ursodeoxycholic acid was recapitulated by INT‐777, an agonist of the Takeda G protein‐coupled receptor 5 (TGR5), and by cevimeline, a muscarinic acetylcholine receptor agonist. Agonists to the nuclear receptors farnesoid X receptor, glucocorticoid receptor, pregnane X receptor, vitamin D receptor, and to the plasma membrane epidermal growth factor receptor did not modify baseline contractile patterns. These results demonstrate that gentle eversion of intact mouse ileum facilitates the quantification of longitudinal smooth muscle contractile responses to individual bile acids. Prokinetic effects of ursodeoxycholic acid and low‐dose deoxycholic acid are replicated by agonists to TGR5 and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many savannas are experiencing increased cover of trees and shrubs, resulting in reduced herbaceous productivity, shifts in savanna functional structure and potential reductions in ecotourism. Clearing woody plants has been suggested as an effective management strategy to mitigate these effects and restore these systems to an open state with higher rates of grass production and herbivory. This study investigated the effectiveness of repeated shrub clearing as a tool to mitigate bush encroachment in a semi‐arid savanna in southern Africa.We present data from a 7‐year experiment in the Mthimkhulu Game Reserve bordering Kruger National Park, South Africa. Colophospermum mopane stems and resprouting shoots were basally cut 2–3 times per year (2015–2022) in three pairs of treatment and control plots of 60 × 60 m. We monitored changes in soil moisture, grass biomass and herbivore activity via dung counts. We assessed C. mopane physiological responses to repeated cutting using non‐structural carbohydrates and stable water isotopes to infer changes to energy storage and functional rooting depth, respectively.The cleared treatment had higher soil moisture and grass biomass than the control treatment. Dung counts showed impala and buffalo visited the cleared treatment more frequently than the control treatment.Repeated cutting had limited effects on C. mopane survival in the first 2–3 years after initial clearing, but 80% of individuals were dead after 7 years. Repeatedly cut C. mopane had lower belowground starch concentrations and used water from shallower soil depths than C. mopane in control plots.Synthesis and applications. Repeated cutting increased soil moisture availability and grass biomass, and attracted charismatic grazing herbivores. While more costly than once‐off clearing methods, this practice created more employment opportunities for a neighbouring rural community. Transforming portions of the ecosystem to a grass‐dominated state may increase ecotourism potential through improved game viewing in open systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the synergies between relationship‐based practice and contextual safeguarding when working with young people experiencing extra‐familial risk and harm (EFRH). The article draws on data from interviews, observations, policy reviews and case files from two sites in England who are testing contextual safeguarding approaches to EFRH, including a children and families social work department and a voluntary and community sector organisation. The findings evidence how relationship‐based practice in contextual safeguarding facilitates practitioners' understanding of places and their peers. The discussion draws on the theory of social defences to evidence that despite willingness and commitment to relationship‐based practice, without systemic and cultural organisational support to respond to EFRH, efforts to do so may undermine and cause harm to practitioners engaging in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photonic switches play a vital role in optical communications and computer networks for establishing and releasing connections of optical signals. With the growing demand for ultra‐compact switches in high‐speed optical computing and communications, thermally reconfigurable optical switches have gained significant attention. These switches offer simplicity, ease of fabrication, and leverage a wide range of thermo‐optic materials. Silicon remains an ideal platform for making photonic devices including the switches due to its compatibility with complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) technology and cost‐effectiveness. The article presents a drop cast sub‐stoichiometric vanadium oxide (VO2−x) nanoparticles combined with a silicon ridge waveguide to make a compact thermally reconfigurable optical switch with low transition temperature and accelerated phase transition. Furthermore, the design achieves high modulation depth in addition to its scalability and simplicity. This study demonstrates the potential of solution‐based VO2−x nanoparticles in combination with silicon waveguides for efficient optical switch design for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maternal health outcomes in the United States raises concern due to elevated rates of pregnancy‐related deaths compared to other developed and underdeveloped countries. This scoping review explores relationships between social determinants of health (SDOH), postpartum visit attendance, and pregnancy‐related deaths. Methods: Utilizing the Arksey and O'Malley framework and PRISMA‐Scr guidelines, a systematic review was conducted to identify pertinent literature. Results: Eight studies were analyzed, providing insights into SDOH, postpartum visits, and pregnancy‐related deaths. The findings highlight healthcare access/quality, economic stability, education, and social/community context as influential in postpartum care utilization. Health insurance emerges a key factor for postpartum attendance. In addition, disparities in geographic access to maternity care services were linked to pregnancy‐related deaths. Social contextual factors, such as marital status and social support, exhibited varying associations with postpartum visit attendance. Conclusion: While the analyzed studies provided valuable insight, there remains a gap in the literature examining all three key elements: SDOH, postpartum visit attendance, and pregnancy‐related deaths. In conclusion, this scoping review highlights the vital role of addressing social determinants in improving maternal health outcomes. Further research is necessary to better inform interventions to reduce pregnancy‐related deaths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteosarcoma, the most common primary bone cancer that affects adolescents worldwide, has the early metastatic potential to be responsible for high mortality rates. Morin has a multipurpose role in numerous cancers, whereas little is known about its role in osteosarcoma migration and invasion. Therefore, we hypothesized that morin suppresses the invasive activities and the migratory potential of human osteosarcoma cells. Our results showed that morin reduced migration and invasion capabilities in human osteosarcoma U2OS and HOS cells. Moreover, morin inhibited the urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) expression through a signal transducer and an activator of transcription‐3 (STAT3) phosphorylation. After STAT3 overexpression, the decrease of the migratory potential and uPA expression caused by 100 μM of morin in U2OS cells was countered, indicating that STAT3 contributes to the antimetastatic property of morin in human osteosarcoma cells by reducing uPA. In conclusion, morin may be a potential candidate for the antimetastatic treatment of human osteosarcoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT This paper explores how seven organisations from the children's social care sector in England adapted their service during the Covid‐19 pandemic restrictions to better meet the needs of young people experiencing extra‐familial risks and harms. Particularly, it focuses on these organisations' experience of attempting to transform services in a unique crisis context and considers what insights this situated study offers into the processes of innovation and practice improvement in the sector. Twelve respondents from these seven organisations participated in semi‐structured interviews, which were analysed both narratively and thematically. Six of these participants were interviewed longitudinally over 6 months, enabling consideration of barriers encountered within their innovation journeys and the factors and conditions that facilitated the process. From these, three longitudinal narrative accounts were selected, highlighting themes emblematic of the overall dataset. The findings indicate that, unencumbered by the usual constraints of bureaucracy, organisations could adapt service provision with unprecedented speed, to respond in more youth‐centred and welfare‐oriented ways to young people's needs. Rapid cycles of iterative development in response to young people's feedback suggested a surprising potential for agility and responsivity in the children's services sector, raising questions about whether and how this might be mobilised outside of crisis conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrospinning has emerged as one of the major technologies for designing and fabricating tissue engineering membranes. The resemblance of the electrospun fiber structure to blood capillaries endowed them with unique capabilities to mimic the native tissue biological characteristics, while the high surface‐to‐volume ratio enables them to exert a controlled release of drug directly to the exposed interstitial tissue. This research attempts to compare the characteristics of different electrospun polyvinyl alcohol/hyaluronic acid (PVA/HA) composite material nanofibrous membranes in order to identify the optimal material‐fabrication combination for wound dressing and skin tissue engineering applications. Far‐field electrospinning equipped with both rotatory and wire collectors is considered for membrane fabrication. PVA with different concentrations and molecular weights of HA are electrospun as nanofibrous membranes considering a voltage of 30 kV on both types of collectors. Comprehensive characterization is conducted including morphological, chemical, thermal, mechanical, and in vitro mucoadhesion analysis. In vitro cell viability/proliferation studies are also carried out and pointed out that the designed membranes are cytocompatible, and able to support keratinocytes proliferation. All these results proved that the fabricated PVA/HA nanofibrous membranes are suitable for wound dressing and skin tissue engineering applications, the optimal material‐fabrication combination is also determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to look into the catalytic activity of KOH‐modified CaO from eggshell as catalyst for the optimization of biodiesel production from used cooking oil (UCO), applying the Taguchi approach. The strong base catalyst (K/CE) was formulated by doping KOH on calcined chicken eggshell at various quantities (0–2.5 g), where 2 g of KOH doped on 5 g of calcined eggshell (2K/CE) and recalcined at 400 °C was found to represent the best catalyst formulation conditions. The optimal catalyst resulted in the maximum UCO biodiesel (UCOB) yield of 91.92 % at 70 °C for 1 h, using a 2K/CE dosage of 0.5 wt % and a methanol/UCO molar ratio of 15:1. The physicochemical properties of the optimal UCOB sample were in accordance with ASTM D6751 specifications, and gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry analysis confirmed the presence of methyl esters at an amount of 97.65 wt %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Earlier studies have shown that peptide glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor (GLP‐1R) agonists with reduced β‐arrestin recruitment show enhanced anti‐hyperglycaemic efficacy through avoidance of GLP‐1R desensitization. However, the ligand modifications needed to decrease β‐arrestin recruitment usually also reduces GLP‐1R affinity, therefore higher doses are needed. Here we aimed to develop new, long‐acting, G protein‐biased GLP‐1R agonists with acute signalling potency comparable with semaglutide, to provide insights into specific experimental and therapeutic scenarios. Materials and Methods: New GLP‐1R agonist peptides were assessed using a variety of in vitro and in vivo assays. Results: First, we show that very substantial reductions in β‐arrestin recruitment efficacy are required to realize fully the benefits of GLP‐1R agonism on blood glucose lowering in mice, with more moderate reductions being less effective. Secondly, our lead compound (SRB107) performs substantially better than semaglutide for effects on blood glucose and weight loss, which may be jointly attributable to its biased agonist action and protracted pharmacokinetics. Thirdly, we show that biased agonist‐specific GLP‐1R internalization profiles occur at clinically relevant pharmacological concentrations. Finally, we show that SRB107 cAMP signalling is differentially modulated by single and double GLP1R coding variants seen in human populations, with implications for GLP‐1R agonist pharmacogenomics. Conclusions: Completely abolishing β‐arrestin recruitment improves the anti‐hyperglycaemic effects of GLP‐1R agonists in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article emphasizes the importance of collaborative partnerships between industry and academia in addressing complex issues in food research, including nutrition, health, and environmental sustainability. Topics include the challenges of food security, rising global hunger rates, and the need for interdisciplinary approaches to innovate solutions.

Background. In Ghana, Cymbopogon citratus leaves together with guava, pawpaw, and lime are processed into a decoction to treat fever. To encourage its usage, preclinical validation of the safety profile of the plant is required. The acute and subchronic toxicities of the conventional Soxhlet ethanolic Cymbopogon citratus leaves extract in Sprague–Dawley rats were investigated. Methods. Pulverized Cymbopogon citratus leaves were extracted with 98% ethanol using the conventional Soxhlet extraction (CSE) method and dried. In the acute toxicity study, a single dose of 5000 mg/kg body weight was administered to six female Sprague–Dawley rats and 1 ml/100 g body weight normal saline to control (6) once, and signs of toxicity were observed every hour for the first 12 hr, 24 hr, and 48 hr through to 14 days. In the subchronic study, the treatment groups were administered 200 mg/kg, 600 mg/kg, and 1200 mg/kg, respectively, of the CSE C. citratus leaves extract for six weeks. Analyses were conducted on the blood, urine, and serum samples of the rats. Histopathological examination of the liver, heart, kidney, spleen, and lungs was carried out at termination. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to determine statistically significant differences between the test and control rats at P < 0.05. Results. The results revealed that there were no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) in the urinalysis and haematological analysis between control and test rats over the treatment period. Similarly, CSE C. citratus leaves extract did not induce any significant biochemical changes in the treatment group; however, there was a weight loss effect on the treated rats. There were no noticeable morphological changes in the heart, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney of the test rats compared to the control. Conclusion. CSE ethanolic C. citratus leaves extract has a weight loss effect, and long-term administration of the extract may not cause any organ-specific toxicity to the consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hosts rely on the availability of nutrients for growth, and for defense against pathogens. At the same time, changes in host nutrition can alter the dynamics of pathogens that rely on their host for reproduction. For primary producer hosts, enhanced nutrient loads may increase host biomass or pathogen reproduction, promoting faster density‐dependent pathogen transmission. However, the effect of elevated nutrients may be reduced if hosts allocate a growth‐limiting nutrient to pathogen defense. In canonical disease models, transmission is not a function of nutrient availability. Yet, including nutrient availability is necessary to mechanistically understand the response of infection to changes in the environment. Here, we explore the implications of nutrient‐mediated pathogen infectivity and host immunity on infection outcomes. We developed a stoichiometric disease model that explicitly integrates the contrasting dependencies of pathogen infectivity and host immunity on nitrogen (N) and parameterized it for an algal‐host system. Our findings reveal dynamic shifts in host biomass build‐up, pathogen prevalence, and the force of infection along N supply gradients with N‐mediated host infectivity and immunity, compared with a model in which the transmission rate was fixed. We show contrasting responses in pathogen performance with increasing N supply between N‐mediated infectivity and N‐mediated immunity, revealing an optimum for pathogen transmission at intermediate N supply. This was caused by N limitation of the pathogen at a low N supply and by pathogen suppression via enhanced host immunity at a high N supply. By integrating both nutrient‐mediated pathogen infectivity and host immunity into a stoichiometric model, we provide a theoretical framework that is a first step in reconciling the contrasting role nutrients can have on host–pathogen dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hexane (HEX) and dichloromethane (DCM) have been used to extract oils from various sources due to their expansive solubility and low volatility that ease removal at low temperatures. However, environmental and health concerns make them undesirable solvents. The aim of this study was to evaluate the extraction efficiency and physicochemical characteristics of palm kernel oil (PKO) extracted with the addition of acetone in HEX‐acetone (1:1, vol/vol) and DCM‐acetone (1:1, vol/vol) mixtures as an alternative to DCM and HEX alone. PKO extracted with co‐solvent systems had better quality characteristics compared with single solvent extracts. The oil recovered, free fatty acid content, peroxide value and other quality characteristics, and thermal properties were within the range for PKO, and similar oils as stipulated in standards. Monounsaturated fatty acid content in PKO was up to 70% of which lauric acid was the most abundant (48%–52%). A total of 50 volatile compounds were identified by GC–MS in all the extracts including amide (1), alcohol (1), aldehydes (2), ketones (3), acids (6), esters (6) and hydrocarbons (31) with higher numbers of volatiles in the HEX extracts compared to the DCM extracts. Dodecanoic acid, hexanal, and 2‐undecanone were the most abundant acid, aldehyde, and ketone, respectively. Principal component analysis (PCA) differentiated the volatiles identified on the polar and non‐polar columns with 88.2% and 8.8%, and 67.3% and 19.6% of the variation accounted for by PC1 and PC2, respectively, with several common volatile components forming a cluster from all the solvents used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eutectic mixtures can be formed by adding drugs other than nicotine (DOTNs) to nicotine‐based e‐liquids in electronic cigarettes (e‐cigarettes). Thus, the interaction between nicotine e‐liquids and DOTNs must be evaluated. Presented is the change in e‐cigarette aerosolization of nicotine and methadone alone versus a 1:1 nicotine:methadone mixture to evaluate the possible formation of a eutectic mixture that can result in an increase of drug delivery. E‐liquids were prepared in‐house using 1:1 propylene glycol (PG):vegetable glycerin (VG) as a base plus nicotine, methadone hydrochloride, or 1:1 nicotine:methadone hydrochloride. The e‐liquids were aerosolized via an automated vaping machine using parameters adopted from the Cooperation Centre for Scientific Research Relative to Tobacco (CORESTA) E‐cigarette Task Force method. Drug recovery was determined by capturing the aerosol from 15 puffs generated by the e‐cigarette. Concentrations of nicotine and methadone aerosolized were determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry using nicotine (n = 3), methadone (n = 3), and combined nicotine/methadone e‐liquids (n = 3), each prepared in‐house at 12 mg/ml. The concentration of nicotine and methadone in 15 puffs of the single drug e‐liquids were determined to be 1.60 ± 0.20 and 2.67 ± 0.12 mg, respectively. The concentration of nicotine and methadone in 15 puffs of the multidrug e‐liquid were determined to be 3.66 ± 0.49 and 3.65 ± 0.10 mg, respectively. The single nicotine and methadone e‐liquids had recoveries of 70 ± 0.1% and 84 ± 0.1%, respectively. In the 1:1 mixture, the recovery of both drugs increased. The development of a eutectic mixture can promote aerosolization of the drug and deliver a greater dose to the user. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While early work on mitochondrial nucleic acids as drivers of inflammation focused predominantly on mtDNA, it has now become clear that mitochondria can release both single-stranded (ss-) and double-stranded (ds-) RNA under varying conditions. While the origins of mtDNA likely result from the endosymbiotic relationship between the alphaproteobacteria and archaeal host that gave rise to eukaryotic cells, it is still unclear why mitochondria retain a separate genome in most eukaryotic species given restricted mtDNA damage and replication quality control mechanisms. Mitochondria are intracellular membrane-bound organelles that harness the chemical energy in food to drive adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis via oxidative phosphorylation. [Extracted from the article]

Delayed discharge from hospital is a global healthcare problem with negative impacts on patient outcomes and the wider health system. Delays to discharge can arise when a patient remains in hospital even when they are medically fit due to nonmedical reasons such as a lack of appropriate housing or social care. However, whilst several nonmedical interventions have been developed to facilitate timely hospital discharge, there remains a lack of evidence on their impact. This study reports on findings from a mixed-methods process evaluation of a newly integrated housing and health service in two United Kingdom- (UK-) based hospitals (one mental health hospital and one general hospital). The service involved housing support coordinators (HSCs) being based within hospitals and supporting inpatients with their housing-related needs. We employed qualitative interviews with service users and hospital/housing staff (N = 16) and routine data analysis (n = 488) to understand the impact of the service and any challenges to service delivery. Service users faced different housing barriers, for example: 28.3% experienced homelessness (n = 136) whilst 80 (16.4%) faced challenges with their accommodation no longer meeting their physical needs. Service users received support for a variety of issues such as assistance with medical priority applications, support to apply for social housing, and referral to other support services. Healthcare professionals at all levels credit the service for improving hospital discharge processes and reducing stress on clinical staff, enabling them to concentrate more effectively on clinical tasks. Key to success is experienced housing staff providing patient-centred support, being integrated within a multidisciplinary team with management and oversight from the health service, and the availability of appropriate housing stock and wider services to support people after discharge. Our findings indicate that other hospitals may benefit from implementing similar housing and health integrated services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Death is a common outcome of infection, but most disease models do not track hosts after death. Instead, these hosts disappear into a void. This assumption lacks critical realism, because dead hosts can alter host–pathogen dynamics. Here, we develop a theoretical framework of carbon‐based models combining disease and ecosystem perspectives to investigate the consequences of feedbacks between living and dead hosts on disease dynamics and carbon cycling. Because autotrophs (i.e. plants and phytoplankton) are critical regulators of carbon cycling, we developed general model structures and parameter combinations to broadly reflect disease of autotrophic hosts across ecosystems. Analytical model solutions highlight the importance of disease–ecosystem coupling. For example, decomposition rates of dead hosts mediate pathogen spread, and carbon flux between live and dead biomass pools are sensitive to pathogen effects on host growth and death rates. Variation in dynamics arising from biologically realistic parameter combinations largely fell along a single gradient from slow to fast carbon turnover rates, and models predicted higher disease impacts in fast turnover systems (e.g. lakes and oceans) than slow turnover systems (e.g. boreal forests). Our results demonstrate that a unified framework, including the effects of pathogens on carbon cycling, provides novel hypotheses and insights at the nexus of disease and ecosystem ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone cancer that affects adolescents with early metastatic potential and drastically reduces their long‐term survival rate if pulmonary metastases are detected at diagnosis. The natural naphthoquinol compound deoxyshikonin exhibits anticancer properties, so we hypothesized that it has an apoptotic effect on osteosarcoma U2OS and HOS cells and studied its mechanisms. After deoxyshikonin treatment, dose‐dependent decreases in cell viability, induction of cell apoptosis and arrest in the sub‐G1 phase of U2OS and HOS cells were observed. The increases in cleaved caspase 3 expression and the decreases in X‐chromosome‐linked IAP (XIAP) and cellular inhibitors of apoptosis 1 (cIAP‐1) expressions after deoxyshikonin treatment in the human apoptosis array were identified in HOS cells, and dose‐dependent expression changes of IAPs and cleaved caspase 3, 8 and 9 were verified by Western blotting in U2OS and HOS cells. Phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinases (ERK)1/2, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinases (JNK)1/2 and p38 expressions in U2OS and HOS cells was also increased by deoxyshikonin in a dose‐dependent manner. Subsequently, cotreatment with inhibitors of ERK (U0126), JNK (JNK‐IN‐8) and p38 (SB203580) was performed to show that p38 signalling is responsible for deoxyshikonin‐induced apoptosis in U2OS and HOS cells, but not via the ERK and JNK pathways. These discoveries demonstrate that deoxyshikonin may be a possible chemotherapeutic candidate to induce cell arrest and apoptosis by activating extrinsic and intrinsic pathways through p38 for human osteosarcoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research demonstrates that relationships are key when working to support young people affected by sexual violence. Within these relationships, young people show a preference for non‐judgemental, flexible, consistent and informal support. Peer support – defined here as support provided by those with similar experiences – is however an uncharted area for assisting young people affected by sexual violence. This paper draws on interviews with 25 respondents with knowledge and experience of setting up, supervising and/or participating in peer support initiatives for young people impacted by different forms of sexual violence in Europe and North America. The article highlights how one form of peer support, peer or 'survivor' mentoring, can provide emotional and social support; create space for 'normality'; and give choices to young people. It outlines three unique dimensions to the support provided by peers more generally: relatability, credibility and translatability. The discussion reflects on what this might mean for traditional support provided by professionals. It also draws attention to the significance of recognising both the variety of experience and identity of young survivors of sexual trauma and the impact this may have on promoting relatability within relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Dental caries is an infectious disease affecting virtually all nations, including Rwanda. In Rwanda, the burden of dental caries is an issue of public health concern. To ensure the progressive eradication of the current dental caries burden in Rwanda through an evidence‐based approach, it is imperative to have an overview of the scientific research landscape of dental caries in the country. This study—a scoping review—aims to review the available evidence and gaps on dental caries in Rwanda. Methods: This scoping review was reported based on the Preferred Reporting Items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. A systematic search of 11 databases was done to scoop out all literature relevant to the topic. Based on the review's selection criteria, a total of eight peer‐reviewed journal articles were included in the review. The extracted data were collated, summarized, and presented as results. Results: The analysis of the data extracted from the included articles revealed a high prevalence of dental caries (ranging from 42.42% to 71.5%) in Rwanda. Also, the major pathogens causing dental caries in Rwanda as well as the impact of dental caries on the physical health and quality of life of Rwandans were identified in this review. Furthermore, the reported operative treatment options for dental caries in Rwanda were predominantly nonconservative. Also, no intervention study has been conducted on dental caries in Rwanda. Conclusion: The findings in this review identify the need for massive public health interventions on dental caries in Rwanda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Societal Impact Statement: Historic North American apple (Malus domestica) orchards that thrived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with cultivar compositions unlike today's orchards, are vanishing. There are several reasons for this loss: tree aging, cost of tree maintenance, and urbanization. Many groups have collected local knowledge regarding the history and horticulture of apples using both phenotypic and genotypic identification methods. Some of these groups have joined with scientists to form the collaborative "Historic Fruit Tree Working Group of North America" to facilitate the conservation of heirloom apple cultivars in North America through documentation, identification, collaboration, and education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chemokine receptor CXCR4 antagonist plerixafor (Px) as well as high volume (HV) leukapheresis have been shown to reduce hematopoietic stem progenitor cell (HSPC) mobilization failure rates. However, no direct comparisons of such methods currently exists. Methods and Materials: We compared the HSPC collection yield based on basal peripheral blood CD34+ cell numbers in patients diagnosed with multiple myeloma or non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma undergoing autologous stem cell transplantation in a retrospective chart review. The leukapheresis methods used included HV versus regular volume (RV) with or without Px. There were 116 patients in the study group while the historical control group had 34 patients. Results and Conclusions: Control group underwent RV leukapheresis without Px. Addition of Px or HV in the study group failed to display significant improvement in CD34+ cell collection yield; however, when basal CD34+ cell numbers were taken into account, both Px + RV and HV without Px increased CD34+ cell collection yield. The collection failure rates of HV without Px group were comparable to Px + RV when the basal CD34+ cell numbers were over 20/μl. Of interest, multivariate linear regression analysis did not detect any significant difference between HV versus Px + RV or other leukapheresis methods in CD34 yields or collection failure rates from a single collection after controlling for other factors (sex, age, or underlying disease). In multivariate analysis, pre apheresis CD34+ cell number was significantly and positively associated with the CD34+ cell yields from a single apheresis. In our studies, the majority of patients can be rescued without Px by HV alone as a potential cost saving approach. In summary, trend in our studies reflects that both Px and HV are capable of reducing the mobilization failure rates except the poorest mobilizers, which will need to be validated in larger studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the distinctive features of the Crocodylia is the presence of a superficial meatal chamber the aperture of which is regulated by two earflaps. The movements of the upper earflap have been detailed by multiple workers, however, the mechanics of the lower earflap remain unresolved. The present study was undertaken to document the mechanics of the lower earflap in the American alligator, Alligator mississippiensis, and to explore the functional bases of coordinated movements between the lower earflap and lower eyelid in this species. This anatomical system was examined using a combination of fresh dissection, histology, and micro‐CT analyses applied to post‐embryonic specimens. The rostral margin of the lower earflap is tightly bound to a block of dense connective tissue herein termed the orbitalauricular chord. The orbitalauricular chord is anatomically distinct from both a ligament and a tendon. The dorsal surface of the orbitalauricular chord is attached to a slip of the levator palpebra, while the ventral surface is attached to a slip of the depressor palpebra. These attachments produce a simple mechanism for the elevation and depression of the lower earflap, and thus the opening and closing of the meatal aperture. The caudal surface of the orbitalauricular chord has connective tissue links to the rostral margin of the lower earflap. The morphology of the orbitalauricular chord appears to explain both the mechanics of the lower earflap and the functional coupling between the lower eyelid and lower earflap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

College students today face numerous pressures, which complicate a student's career decision‐making process and make it imperative that career development practitioners utilize interventions that are empirically proven to enhance outcomes related to career development. This study examines a theoretically based career course and assesses negative career thoughts and metacognitive knowledge of students at the beginning and end of the course. Rooted in cognitive therapy theoretical concepts, cognitive information processing theory highlights how negative thoughts can have a detrimental impact on one's behavior and emotions. The best‐fitting mixed linear model with random intercepts for 78 students with complete data observed significant improvements in negative career thoughts without being differentially impacted by instructor effects. Additionally, students with lower estimations of their career‐related knowledge at the pre‐test had smaller changes in negative career thoughts at post‐test. These results are unique because despite various instructors teaching, the reduction in negative metacognitions remained stable across all sections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper‐based 3D fractal nanostructures are integrated on the electrodes using a scalable and ink‐free flame aerosol synthesis technique for electrochemical CO2 reduction. The effects of tortuosity and oxidation state of copper are respectively investigated by isolating each effect from the others. By balancing the intermediate confinement and local availability of CO2, CuO‐derived Cu with optimal tortuosity exhibits a Faradaic efficiency of 65% toward C2+ products at an applied potential of −1.04 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode. A subsequent study of the effects of the oxidation state, which is free from the influence of tortuosity, reveals that Cu2+‐derived Cu demonstrates suppressed hydrogen evolution reaction and a higher C2+/CH4 ratio than metallic Cu. The preference for the formation of both ethanol and n‐propanol versus ethylene, is found to follow the trend from metallic Cu > Cu2+‐derived Cu > Cu+‐derived Cu toward alcohols' formation. These findings elucidate the underlying causes for the effects of tortuosity of porous Cu electrodes on selectivity and provide insights into the specific effects of the initial oxidation state on various reaction pathways during electrochemical CO2 reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To determine the prevalence of familial vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) by studying the outcomes of screening in a contemporary cohort of newborns with normal antenatal kidney scans. Methods: A review of screening outcomes in newborns with a first degree relative with VUR, normal antenatal scans and no prior urine infections between 2014–2019 at three maternity units in the North East of England was conducted. Imaging consisted of micturating cystourethrogram (MCUG) in all and renal tract ultrasound scan (RUS) routinely in two units and by clinician preference in one unit. Results: At a median age of 59 days, 265 infants underwent MCUG. High‐grade VUR (Grades 3–5) was detected in 13 (4.9%) and low‐grade VUR (Grades 1–2) in 24 (9.1%). In the 152 infants who had a RUS, abnormalities were detected in 21 (13.8%). An abnormal postnatal RUS has a low positive predictive value (14.3%) for high‐grade VUR, but a normal RUS has a high negative predictive value (95.4%). Conclusion: Compared to historical cohorts from two decades ago, the yield from familial VUR screening is low and unjustifiable in the setting of normal antenatal anomaly scans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to develop generic quality nursing care indicators for a low‐ and middle‐income country's quality nursing care measurement through a modified Delphi consensus. Design: A three‐round modified Delphi process guided the items' development and acceptance consensus. Methods: Twenty‐four academic and clinical nursing experts from different parts of Nigeria participated in the Delphi rounds. In the first round, 96 items (structure – 31, process – 38, and outcome – 27) were distributed to the panellists through e‐mail. The same method guided round 2. In round 3, the panellists reached a consensus on the number and structure of the items. Results: In round 1, the initial items were reduced to 75 that met the Delphi consensus. In round 2, the items were modified further and reduced to 74. In round 3, the experts reached a consensus on 70 items (structure – 28, process – 32, and outcome – 10). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is increasing recognition of the value of trauma‐informed approaches when working with young people affected by sexual violence. Peer support is a key principle of a trauma‐informed approach; however, there are limited examples of peer support programmes for this group. This paper draws on interviews with 25 respondents with knowledge and experience of peer support initiatives with young people impacted by sexual violence. The article outlines their perspectives on how peer support initiatives – that may be viewed as more 'risky' than traditional casework – can be kept 'safe'. Six strategies are identified together with implications for practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction to the journal is presented in which the editor discusses various topics within the issue, including place-based learning, the educational and cultural strategies to support indigenous and minority languages, and language policies.

The California Energy Commission funded a study to evaluate two technologies to assess their usefulness as an early leak detection tool for alerting field teams and to better understand the impact on energy savings through managing water loss. Specifically, the latest in advanced correlating continuous acoustic monitoring and satellite imagery leak detection technologies were examined over a period of 12 months in the Duarte system of California with 4.9 mgd production capacity and representing several pressure zones in the service area. A key conclusion was that both technologies improved the effectiveness of locating subsurface leaks that would have been invisible to the casual observer, and both were potential candidates for future applications. When implemented together in this study, the two technologies found leaks that would have resulted in between 57–170 mil gal of lost water during the study period. This equates to 140–419 MWh of energy savings in California, amounting to cost savings of at least $100,000 for the Duarte system alone during the 12‐month study period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autotrophs play an essential role in the cycling of carbon and nutrients, yet disease‐ecosystem relationships are often overlooked in these dynamics. Importantly, the availability of elemental nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus impacts infectious disease in autotrophs, and disease can induce reciprocal effects on ecosystem nutrient dynamics. Relationships linking infectious disease with ecosystem nutrient dynamics are bidirectional, though the interdependence of these processes has received little attention. We introduce disease‐mediated nutrient dynamics (DND) as a framework to describe the multiple, concurrent pathways linking elemental cycles with infectious disease. We illustrate the impact of disease–ecosystem feedback loops on both disease and ecosystem nutrient dynamics using a simple mathematical model, combining approaches from classical ecological (logistic and Droop growth) and epidemiological (susceptible and infected compartments) theory. Our model incorporates the effects of nutrient availability on the growth rates of susceptible and infected autotroph hosts and tracks the return of nutrients to the environment following host death. While focused on autotroph hosts here, the DND framework is generalizable to higher trophic levels. Our results illustrate the surprisingly complex dynamics of host populations, infection patterns, and ecosystem nutrient cycling that can arise from even a relatively simple feedback between disease and nutrients. Feedback loops in disease‐mediated nutrient dynamics arise via effects of infection and nutrient supply on host stoichiometry and population size. Our model illustrates how host growth rate, defense, and tissue chemistry can impact the dynamics of disease–ecosystem relationships. We use the model to motivate a review of empirical examples from autotroph–pathogen systems in aquatic and terrestrial environments, demonstrating the key role of nutrient–disease and disease–nutrient relationships in real systems. By assessing existing evidence and uncovering data gaps and apparent mismatches between model predictions and the dynamics of empirical systems, we highlight priorities for future research intended to narrow the persistent disciplinary gap between disease and ecosystem ecology. Future empirical and theoretical work explicitly examining the dynamic linkages between disease and ecosystem ecology will inform fundamental understanding for each discipline and will better position the field of ecology to predict the dynamics of disease and elemental cycles in the context of global change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the discovery of lysosomes more than 70 years ago, much has been learned about the functions of these organelles. Lysosomes were regarded as exclusively degradative organelles, but more recent research has shown that they play essential roles in several other cellular functions, such as nutrient sensing, intracellular signalling and metabolism. Methodological advances played a key part in generating our current knowledge about the biology of this multifaceted organelle. In this review, we cover current methods used to analyze lysosome morphology, positioning, motility and function. We highlight the principles behind these methods, the methodological strategies and their advantages and limitations. To extract accurate information and avoid misinterpretations, we discuss the best strategies to identify lysosomes and assess their characteristics and functions. With this review, we aim to stimulate an increase in the quantity and quality of research on lysosomes and further ground‐breaking discoveries on an organelle that continues to surprise and excite cell biologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine the interdependence of systematic risk in twenty emerging market economies. The interdependence structures are performed for subregional and regional categorizations of emerging markets, which have demonstrated financial openness over the years. Hence, the Kalman filter-based wavelet approach is adopted to execute the purpose of this study. The outcome from the contemporaneous correlations demonstrates that the degree of comovements among the equity betas varies. Moreover, from the wavelet multiple cross-correlations, Qatar, Brazil, Indonesia, and Czech Republic led for most timescales. Conversely, the equity betas of United Arab Emirates (Africa and Middle East), Argentina (Americas), China (Asia), and Russia (Europe) exhibit low degrees of integration with other systematic risk returns from each subregion. The low correlations, especially in the short term, of these countries within their respective regions signify less risk transmission and should be included in a portfolio of assets in determining investment risks. Generally, we find significant integration among systematic risks in emerging markets in the long term. We institute that the nature of interdependence in systematic risk has been heterogeneous across time. Accordingly, the equity betas increase with scale for most subregions and the emerging markets as a whole, implying that market interconnections heighten as the investment horizon is prolonged, revealing saturated markets with shocks. It is recommended that prudent liquidity policies are implemented to augment resilience to systematic risks susceptibilities in the long term. The findings present pertinent implications for portfolio diversification, policy decisions, investing risk, and risk management schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the prediction of occupational stress through personality traits, gender and occupational stress among teachers of learners with special needs (TLSN) from the southwest, Nigeria. The transactional stress theory provided a framework for the study. Data were collected through a paper–pencil self‐completed questionnaire. Data collected were analysed by descriptive and inferential statistics at 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and p < 0.05. The response rate was 94.4%. A total of 287 male and 185 female TLSN participated in this study. Findings revealed a significant association between extraversion, agreeableness; openness, conscientiousness, neuroticism and occupational stress of TLSN. Participants with extraversion and openness both has highest likelihood of exhibiting occupational stress. Male TLSN had a greater likelihood of exhibiting occupational stress. The study concluded that male TLSN with extraversion and openness personality traits has high proportion of occupational stress. Based on the findings, appropriate recommendations were made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past year, American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP) has released white papers on quality measures of clinical pharmacy services in ambulatory care, acute care, and transitions of care. While reviewing established metrics and proposing new measures, these papers call out the lack of development, standardization, and validation of quality measures for the practice of pharmacy. This commentary provides a call to action for ACCP and the pharmacy enterprise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Treatment decisions in myocardial infarction (MI) are currently stratified by ST elevation (ST‐elevation myocardial infarction [STEMI]) or lack of ST elevation (non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction [NSTEMI]) on the electrocardiogram. This arose from the assumption that ST elevation indicated acute coronary artery occlusion (OMI). However, one‐quarter of all NSTEMI cases are an OMI, and have a higher mortality. The purpose of this study was to identify features that could help identify OMI. Methods: Prospectively collected data from patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was analyzed. Data included presentation characteristics, comorbidities, treatments, and outcomes. Latent class analysis was undertaken, to determine patterns of presentation and history associated with OMI. Results: A total of 1412 patients underwent PCI for acute MI, and 263 were diagnosed as OMI. Compared to nonocclusive MI, OMI patients are more likely to have fewer comorbidities but no difference in cerebrovascular disease and increased acute mortality (4.2% vs. 1.1%; p <.001). Of OMI, 29.5% had delays to their treatment such as immediate reperfusion therapy. With latent class analysis, while clusters of similar patients are observed in the data set, the data available did not usefully identify patients with OMI compared to non‐OMI. Conclusion: Features between OMI and STEMI are broadly very similar. However, there was no difference in age and risk of cerebrovascular disease in the OMI/non‐OMI group. There are no reliable characteristics therefore for identifying OMI versus non‐OMI. Delays to treatment also suggest that OMI patients are still missing out on optimal treatment. An alternative strategy is required to improve the identification of OMI patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many children continue to be sexually abused worldwide. In Ghana, relatively high figures of child sexual abuse (CSA) are reported by the police daily. Although there are laws that seek to protect children from sexual abuse, in reality, there is a wide gulf between legislation and practice. This paper explores why this is so by examining the measures adopted in sanctioning perpetrators of CSA in the Ga community in Ghana. The study uses a qualitative approach to collect data from parents and guardians through in‐depth interviews. The study revealed that, generally, traditional rather than legal sanctions are adopted in handling CSA cases. This paper thus interrogates the consequences of the obvious contraventions of the law as traditional interventions are resorted to. We posit that CSA can be minimised only when child protection laws are enforced by the police and victims are reoriented to appreciate the benefits of seeking legal redress. Key Practitioner Messages: Conscious efforts must be made to destigmatise child sexual abuse.Sensitisation programmes should be organised periodically by stakeholders to educate community members on child sexual abuse.The police in partnership with the media must also lead the campaign to educate the populace that choosing traditional options of redress and non‐disclosure of incestuous acts against children is a clear violation of the law and the rights of the child. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

B-cell lymphomas are neoplastic proliferations of clonal B lymphocytes. Clonality is generally determined by PCR amplification of VDJ rearrangements in the IgH heavy chain or VJ rearrangements in Igκ/Igλ light chain genes followed by capillary electrophoresis. More recently, next-generation sequencing (NGS) has been used to detect clonality in B-cell lymphomas because of the exponential amount of information that is obtained beyond just detecting a clonal population. The additional information obtained is useful for diagnostic confirmation, prognosis assessment, and response to therapy. In this study, we utilized NGS analysis to characterize two histologically distinct lymphomas (DLBCL and CLL/SLL) that were detected contemporaneously in an asymptomatic patient. NGS analysis showed that the same VDJ rearrangement was present in nodal (DLBCL) and marrow (CLL/SLL) biopsies confirming that the DLBCL resulted from Richter's transformation of a subclinical CLL/SLL. The V region of the rearrangement remained unmutated without somatic hypermutation. In silico analysis showed that the HCDR3 sequence was heterogeneous and not stereotypic. Minimal residual disease analysis by NGS showed that the tumor clone decreased by 2.84 logs in the bone marrow after R-CHOP therapy. However, a small number of tumor cells were still detected in the peripheral blood after R-CHOP therapy. Subsequent allogeneic transplantation was successful in eradicating the tumor clone and achieving deep molecular remission. We show that NGS analysis facilitated clinical management in our patient by helping to characterize the VDJ rearrangement in detail and by tracking minimal residual disease with high sensitivity and specificity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic input of mercury into watersheds is becoming increasingly noticeable and is the cause of fishery products contamination. This had led to the Convention of Minamata signed and ratified by the vast majority of the countries in the world. Lake Nokoué in Benin Republic, the most fishery products provider in West Africa, is subject to mercury pollution. The health threat to both the benthic and the consumers of the fishery products from this lake has to be anticipated by precisely determining the dynamics of mercury contamination of the waters and sediments of Lake Nokoué, taking into account the anthropogenic contribution. Water and sediment samples were collected on 23 sites twice a month for four sampling campaigns. Parameters such as pH, salinity, COD, and SS are evaluated in the water. The assessment of total mercury is conducted by cold vapor atomic absorption according to the US EPA 7473 method, using a direct mercury analyzer (DMA-80). On average, the mercury content in Lake Nokoué water is 0.43 ± 0.57 μg/kg. Its variation is linked not only to the seasonal variation but also to that of the suspended matter. South of the lake, the sediments are extremely polluted (5 ≤ Igeo) and present a risk of frequent effects for the benthic species present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Issues addressed: Little is known about the barriers and facilitators associated with engaging fathers in interventions targeting their physical and mental health. The current research therefore aimed to explore fathers' perceived barriers and facilitators to engagement and participation in a health intervention delivered during the early parenting period. Methods: Eleven fathers of young children (0‐4 years) were interviewed about their perceptions and experiences of facilitators and barriers to engaging and participating in an intervention (Working Out Dads) to target their mental and physical health. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Fathers identified a number of program‐related and father‐related facilitators and barriers which impacted their engagement and participation. Program‐related facilitators included: accessibility of the program; father advocacy of the program; group fitness/exercise component; and having a father‐specific program. Facilitating factors related to fathers included: making social connections; learning how to be a better dad/partner; and partner support and encouragement to attend. Program‐related barriers included: travel; lack of awareness; and gender roles. While father‐related barriers included: being time poor; sacrifices to family; and apprehension. Conclusions: The current findings identified many areas that facilitate, encourage and motivate men to participate in interventions which support their mental and physical health during the early parenting period. Relevance: Generating evidence on barriers and facilitators to health interventions is important to improving the current intervention along with informing the development of engaging and targeted health interventions for fathers in early parenthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]