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This article aims to contribute to the application of human resources systems and practices in a sport‐for‐development program for community development. Using a qualitative research approach, this study collected a series of data over a period of 24 months in a rural community setting in India. This article reveals that inputs such as soccer peer‐coaching knowledge and opportunities for training not only develop coaching and playing skills and abilities but also can create a socially cohesive space to foster individual, group and community capacity building for improved sport‐for‐development program outcomes. Using social movement theory, this article illustrates that soccer peer‐coaching knowledge can be an enabler in recruiting, training and incentivising participants and volunteer coaches for social action. This article provides a practical and theoretical understanding of using knowledge, skills and abilities to mobilise individuals and assist in the delivery of a sustainable sport‐for‐development program in a community setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 1954, the seminal short paper in the Nature from James Watson and Francis Crick proposed the double helix model of deoxyribose nucleic acid. This amateur-looking concept changed the way molecular biology is now perceived. We are now celebrating the 70 years of the phenomenon discovery of the modern science that has revolutionized life sciences with a huge impact on many other related scientific disciplines. Fifty years later, the Human Genome Project offered the nearly complete draft sequence of the human genome that is now fully sequenced in the 70th year of the double helix. Technological advances have led to a rapid reduction in the cost of whole genome sequencing. It is now possible for anyone to get the personal genome sequenced for

This study, conducted with a person-oriented approach, aimed to assess whether students who are positively engaged in school activities and daily practices perceive their school climate differently from students who feel distant and less engaged in school. To achieve this aim, by means of a Latent Profile Analysis with the 3-step approach, we first identified student profiles on the basis of their levels of school engagement and burnout, and then verified whether the school climate perceptions differed for the various profiles. The study involved 1065 Italian middle-school students (49% females, Mage = 11.77). School climate perceptions were assessed with the Multidimensional School Climate Questionnaire. Multidimensional measures were used for student engagement and school burnout. Four student profiles, labelled Cynically disengaged (5.9%), Moderately disengaged (21.6%), Peacefully engaged (46.1%) and Tenseley engaged (26.4%), were identified. The first two profiles involved low levels of engagement and high levels of cynical burnout, with the former showing more extreme scores. The other two profiles depicted engaged students, with the latter also revealing feelings of pressure and disillusion. The four profiles differed in their school climate perceptions, with the Peacefully engaged students reporting the highest scores and the Cynically disengaged students embodying the most critical perceptions. The study's educational implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper highlights findings from the first phase of an ongoing qualitative Youth Participatory Acton Research (YPAR) study with a group of students with foster care experience at a large public university in the Northeastern United States. The first phase of data collection consisted of a focus group designed and carried out by co-researchers, amongst themselves. Data was analyzed in two ways, by a faculty member and doctoral student, using thematic content analysis, and through a collaborative analytic process with student co-researchers using an adapted version of Carol Gilligan's, "Listening Guide" in which co-researchers created, analyzed and performed "I Poems" from the focus group transcript. Findings from each data analytic process were compared and contrasted; discrepancies amongst themes from each analytic process led to the merging and creation of new modified themes. Findings illuminate the barriers and facilitators to completion of high school, and applying to college for this cohort of students, as well as barriers and facilitators to retention once in college. Additionally, recommendations are made for university professionals to become more affirming of scholars connected to foster care systems. This study is unique in that it is the first known study to engage with college students with foster care experience in a participatory research process that centers their voices, concerns and priorities in both research design and data. Student organizing and action emanating from the PAR approach are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Educators are exposed to various stressful events as part of their ongoing work, including violence, sexual assaults, suicidal behavior, and loss or illness of students or their family members. Previous studies revealed an increased risk of developing PTSD symptoms in healthcare and supportive professionals exposed to repeated stress as part of their work. Cognitive flexibility might be a protective factor against the negative effect of such stress. The current study aimed to examine the interactive effects of school-related stress exposure and cognitive flexibility on the tendency to develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms and the coping abilities of educators. One hundred and fifty educators (86.5% female; Mage = 43.08, Mteaching_experience= 12.90) volunteered to participate in this study. They completed questionnaires measuring levels of stress exposure, cognitive flexibility, coping ability, and PTSD symptoms. Analyses revealed that cognitive flexibility moderated the relationship between school-related stress exposure and both PTSD symptoms severity and maladaptive coping. Specifically, whereas educators with low cognitive flexibility exhibited positive associations between continuous stress exposure and both levels of PTSD symptoms and maladaptive coping, no such association was found among educators with high cognitive flexibility. The results highlight the importance of cognitive flexibility as a protective factor against the harmful effects of possible stress exposure in school environments. Awareness of the crucial role of cognitive flexibility as a protective factor for educators can be a breakthrough in improving educators' well-being and adaptive functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent advances in long-read sequencing technologies have enabled accurate identification of all genetic variants in individuals or cells; this procedure is known as variant calling. However, benchmarking studies on variant calling using different long-read sequencing technologies are still lacking. Results: We used two Caenorhabditis elegans strains to measure several variant calling metrics. These two strains shared true-positive genetic variants that were introduced during strain generation. In addition, both strains contained common and distinguishable variants induced by DNA damage, possibly leading to false-positive estimation. We obtained accurate and noisy long reads from both strains using high-fidelity (HiFi) and continuous long-read (CLR) sequencing platforms, and compared the variant calling performance of the two platforms. HiFi identified a 1.65-fold higher number of true-positive variants on average, with 60% fewer false-positive variants, than CLR did. We also compared read-based and assembly-based variant calling methods in combination with subsampling of various sequencing depths and demonstrated that variant calling after genome assembly was particularly effective for detection of large insertions, even with 10 × sequencing depth of accurate long-read sequencing data. Conclusions: By directly comparing the two long-read sequencing technologies, we demonstrated that variant calling after genome assembly with 10 × or more depth of accurate long-read sequencing data allowed reliable detection of true-positive variants. Considering the high cost of HiFi sequencing, we herein propose appropriate methodologies for performing cost-effective and high-quality variant calling: 10 × assembly-based variant calling. The results of the present study may facilitate the development of methods for identifying all genetic variants at the population level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genomic imprinting predominantly occurs in the placenta and brain. Few imprinted microRNAs have been identified in the brain, and their functional roles in the brain are not clear. Here we show paternal, but not maternal, expression of MIR125B2 in human but not mouse brain. Moreover, Mir125b-2m−/p− mice showed impaired learning and memory, and anxiety, whose functions were hippocampus-dependent. Hippocampal granule cells from Mir125b-2m−/p− mice displayed increased neuronal excitability, increased excitatory synaptic transmission, and decreased inhibitory synaptic transmission. Glutamate ionotropic receptor NMDA type subunit 2A (Grin2a), a key regulator of synaptic plasticity, was physically bound by miR-125b-2 and upregulated in the hippocampus of Mir125b-2m−/p− mice. Taken together, our findings demonstrate MIR125B2 imprinted in human but not mouse brain, mediated learning, memory, and anxiety, regulated excitability and synaptic transmission in hippocampal granule cells, and affected hippocampal expression of Grin2a. Our work provides functional mechanisms of a species-specific imprinted microRNA in the brain. Knockout of Mir125b-2 in mice leads to defects in hippocampus-related behaviors and affects hippocampal expression of Grin2a and NMDAR-mediated currents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) and copy number variations (CNVs) are the most common genomic variations that cause phenotypic diversity and genetic disorders. MALDI–TOF–MS is a rapid and cost-effective technique for multi-variant genotyping, but it is challenging to efficiently detect CNVs and clustered SNVs, especially to simultaneously detect CNVs and SNVs in one reaction. Herein, a novel strategy termed Target-Allele-Specific Probe Single-Base Extension (TASP-SBE) was devised to efficiently detect CNVs and clustered SNVs with MALDI–TOF–MS. By comprehensive use of traditional SBE and TASP-SBE strategies, a MALDI–TOF–MS assay was also developed to simultaneously detect 28 α-/β-thalassemia mutations in a single reaction system, including 4 α-thalassemia deletions, 3 HBA and 21 HBB SNVs. The results showed that all 28 mutations were sensitively identified, and the CNVs of HBA/HBB genes were also accurately analyzed based on the ratio of peak height (RPH) between the target allele and reference gene. The double-blind evaluation results of 989 thalassemia carrier samples showed a 100% concordance of this assay with other methods. In conclusion, a one-tube MALDI–TOF–MS assay was developed to simultaneously genotype 28 thalassemia mutations. This novel TASP-SBE was also verified a practicable strategy for the detection of CNVs and clustered SNVs, providing a feasible approach for multi-variants analysis with MALDI–TOF–MS technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on school-based health centers (SBHCs) providing a range of health services for addressing the physical and mental health needs of students. Topics include low cost of SBIRT, minimal potential for individual harm, large potential for population-level benefits, and the use of SBHCs by adolescents; and providing strong rationale for incorporating SBIRT into the ongoing clinical work of SBHCs.

The biology of fish sperm, an important topic in the research of reproduction and fisheries from basic science to evolutionary and applied aspects, has implications for aquaculture management, fish breeding and biological conservation. The quality of spermatozoa plays a vital role in fish fertility, and directly affects the health and performance of offspring. Environmental factors that affect determinants of spermatozoa quality usually reflected in the DNA methylation pattern of the spermatozoa epigenome, which may change offspring's performance. The aim of the present study was to conduct a review on existing data about DNA methylation in fish spermatozoa as a biological tool for identifying the quality of offspring based on their phenotypes and performances. Furthermore, this study provides valuable knowledge from fundamental to applied sciences dealing with enhancement of breeding selection, fish reproduction and environmental adaptation. The review also describes the individual parts related to DNA methylation in fish, including overview of the methods which can be used to study DNA methylation, DNA methylation dynamics and epigenetic inheritance; identification of DNA methylation changes in sperm function in response to internal and external environment constraints, and potential relationships between DNA methylation and physiological regulation of spermatozoa quality determinants. Overall, the present study revealed that our knowledge about intergenerational inheritance of the performance and adaptability of fish through sperm DNA methylation is very limited, and no general conclusion could be approached from literature mostly due to non‐standardized experimental protocol or analytical tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the application value of 3T MRI qDixon-WIP technique in the quantitative measurement of pancreatic fat content in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: The 3T MRI qDixon-WIP sequence was used to scan the livers and the pancreas of 47 T2DM patients (experimental group) and 48 healthy volunteers (control group). Pancreatic fat fraction (PFF), hepatic fat fraction (HFF), Body mass index (BMI) ratio of pancreatic volume to body surface area (PVI) were measured. Total cholesterol (TC), subcutaneous fat area (SA), triglyceride (TG), abdominal visceral fat area (VA), high density lipoprotein (HDL-c), fasting blood glucose (FPC) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-c) were collected. The relationship between the experimental group and the control group and between PFF and other indicators was compared. The differences of PFF between the control group and different disease course subgroups were also explored. Results: There was no significant difference in BMI between the experimental group and the control group (P=0.231). PVI, SA, VA, PFF and HFF had statistical differences (P<0.05). In the experimental group, PFF was highly positively correlated with HFF (r=0.964, P<0.001), it was moderately positively correlated with TG and abdominal fat area (r=0.676, 0.591, P<0.001), and it was weakly positively correlated with subcutaneous fat area (r=0.321, P=0.033). And it had no correlation with FPC, PVI, HDL-c, TC and LDL-c (P>0.05). There were statistical differences in PFF between the control group and the patients with different course of T2DM (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in PFF between T2DM patients with a disease course ≤1 year and those with a disease course <5 years (P>0.05). There were significant differences in PFF between the groups with a disease course of 1-5 years and those with a disease course of more than 5 years (P<0.001). Conclusion: PVI of T2DM patients is lower than normal, but SA, VA, PFF, HFF are higher than normal. The degree of pancreatic fat accumulation in T2DM patients with long disease course was higher than that in patients with short disease course. The qDixon-WIP sequence can provide an important reference for clinical quantitative evaluation of fat content in T2DM patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the extremely preeminent role of students' learning engagement (LE) in their academic success, investigating the predictors of LE for EFL learners seems critical. Prior research has demonstrated that the external environmental factors (e.g., teacher support) and the internal motivational factors (e.g., self-efficacy, achievement goal orientation) were related to LE, yet the internal mechanism is still under-explored. Therefore, this study attempted to explore the associations between teacher support and LE and the possible underlying mechanism through which teacher support influences LE with individual motivational variables of self-efficacy and achievement goal orientation the mediators for EFL learners in China. A sample of 466 Chinese college EFL learners participated in the study. Results indicated that (1) both academic support and emotional support significantly predicted LE; (2) academic support predicted LE through the separate mediation of self-efficacy, mastery goals and performance-approach goals; whereas emotional support only predicted LE through mastery goals; (3) academic support, but not emotional support, predicted LE through the chain mediation of self-efficacy and mastery goals, self-efficacy and performance-approach goals. These results elucidated the mechanism of different teacher support on LE and provided some implications for promoting EFL learners' engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its potential to address low achievement, high dropout rates, and misbehavior among students, school engagement has become an important topic in contemporary developmental psychology and educational research. Although there is a wealth of literature on the causes and effects of student engagement, the current understanding of how student engagement varies in response to different teaching styles is limited. This study examined the engagement and burnout profiles of elementary school pupils (N = 798; 51% females; Mage = 11.54, SDage = 0.72) and the interactions between those profiles, students' characteristics and their perceptions of instructional behaviors (e.g., supporting criticism, suppressing criticism & independent viewpoints, intruding). Latent profile analysis revealed five types of profiles: moderately burned out, slightly burned out, moderately engaged, highly engaged, and highly burned out. Follow-up logistic regression analysis found that students clustered into engagement groups were likely to report higher autonomy support from teachers, especially when teachers permit criticism and independent thinking from students. In contrast, students clustered into burned out profiles were more likely to rate teacher strategies as autonomy suppressive. This became more obvious when instructors imposed meaningless and uninteresting activities. Taken together, this study indicated that autonomy-supportive teaching behaviors are pivotal in understanding student engagement and school burnout. The significance of the findings was addressed, along with implications and limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reduced insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) levels in Alzheimer's disease (AD) may be the mechanism relating age-related metabolic disorders to dementia. Since Igf2 is an imprinted gene, we examined age and sex differences in the relationship between amyloid-beta 1–42 (Aβ42) accumulation and epigenetic regulation of the Igf2/H19 gene cluster in cerebrum, liver, and plasma of young and old male and female 5xFAD mice, in frontal cortex of male and female AD and non-AD patients, and in HEK293 cell cultures. We show IGF2 levels, Igf2 expression, histone acetylation, and H19 ICR methylation are lower in females than males. However, elevated Aβ42 levels are associated with Aβ42 binding to Igf2 DMR2, increased DNA and histone methylation, and a reduction in Igf2 expression and IGF2 levels in 5xFAD mice and AD patients, independent of H19 ICR methylation. Cell culture results confirmed the binding of Aβ42 to Igf2 DMR2 increased DNA and histone methylation, and reduced Igf2 expression. These results indicate an age- and sex-related causal relationship among Aβ42 levels, epigenomic state, and Igf2 expression in AD and provide a potential mechanism for Igf2 regulation in normal and pathological conditions, suggesting IGF2 levels may be a useful diagnostic biomarker for Aβ42 targeted AD therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is associated with β-cell dedifferentiation. Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 isoform A3 (ALHD1A3) is a marker of β-cell dedifferentiation and correlates with T2D progression. However, it is unknown whether ALDH1A3 activity contributes to β-cell failure, and whether the decrease of ALDH1A3-positive β-cells (A+) following pair-feeding of diabetic animals is due to β-cell restoration. To tackle these questions, we (i) investigated the fate of A+ cells during pair-feeding by lineage-tracing, (ii) somatically ablated ALDH1A3 in diabetic β-cells, and (iii) used a novel selective ALDH1A3 inhibitor to treat diabetes. Lineage tracing and functional characterization show that A+ cells can be reconverted to functional, mature β-cells. Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of ALDH1A3 in diabetic mice lowers glycemia and increases insulin secretion. Characterization of β-cells following ALDH1A3 inhibition shows reactivation of differentiation as well as regeneration pathways. We conclude that ALDH1A3 inhibition offers a therapeutic strategy against β-cell dysfunction in diabetes. β-cell dedifferentiation is a key feature of type 2 diabetes. Here, the authors show evidence of re-differentiation of de-differentiated β-cells and identify ALDH1A3 as a key player in this process, proposing inhibition of ALDH1A3 as a treatment method for β-cell dysfunction in diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic syndrome, which affects approximately one-quarter of the world's population, is a combination of multiple traits and is associated with high all-cause mortality, increased cancer risk, and other hazards. It has been shown that the epigenetic functions of miRNAs are closely related to metabolic syndrome, but epigenetic studies have not yet fully elucidated the regulatory network and key genes associated with metabolic syndrome. To perform data analysis and screening of potential differentially expressed target miRNAs, mRNAs and genes based on a bioinformatics approach using a metabolic syndrome mRNA and miRNA gene microarray, leading to further analysis and identification of metabolic syndrome-related miRNA–mRNA regulatory networks and key genes. The miRNA gene set (GSE98896) and mRNA gene set (GSE98895) of peripheral blood samples from patients with metabolic syndrome from the GEO database were screened, and set|logFC|> 1 and adjusted P < 0.05 were used to identify the differentially expressed miRNAs and mRNAs. Differentially expressed miRNA transcription factors were predicted using FunRich software and subjected to GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. Next, biological process enrichment analysis of differentially expressed mRNAs was performed with Metascape. Differentially expressed miRNAs and mRNAs were identified and visualized as miRNA–mRNA regulatory networks based on the complementary pairing principle. Data analysis of genome-wide metabolic syndrome-related mRNAs was performed using the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) database. Finally, further WGCNA of the set of genes most closely associated with metabolic syndrome was performed to validate the findings. A total of 217 differentially expressed mRNAs and 158 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified by screening the metabolic syndrome miRNA and mRNA gene sets, and these molecules mainly included transcription factors, such as SP1, SP4, and EGR1, that function in the IL-17 signalling pathway; cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction; proteoglycan syndecan-mediated signalling events; and the glypican pathway, which is involved in the inflammatory response and glucose and lipid metabolism. miR-34C-5P, which was identified by constructing a miRNA–mRNA regulatory network, could regulate DPYSL4 expression to influence insulin β-cells, the inflammatory response and glucose oxidative catabolism. Based on GSEA, metabolic syndrome is known to be closely related to oxidative phosphorylation, DNA repair, neuronal damage, and glycolysis. Finally, RStudio and DAVID were used to perform WGCNA of the gene sets most closely associated with metabolic syndrome, and the results further validated the conclusions. Metabolic syndrome is a common metabolic disease worldwide, and its mechanism of action is closely related to the inflammatory response, glycolipid metabolism, and impaired mitochondrial function. miR-34C-5P can regulate DPYSL4 expression and can be a potential research target. In addition, UQCRQ and NDUFA8 are core genes of oxidative phosphorylation and have also been identified as potential targets for the future treatment of metabolic syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study enacted and supported a scaffolding process to improve preservice teachers' (PSTs') assessment literacy as they experienced school placement. It is crucial to create opportunities that enhance PSTs' understanding of assessment literacy, helping them to reconsider conceptions previously developed as school students (socialisation experiences) and to gain an appreciation for the benefits assessment affords students in their learning. Assessment literate teachers can enact appropriate assessment practices that can improve students' learning and the teaching-learning process while providing opportunities for students to regulate their learning. Eight physical education PSTs working with the same university supervisor took part in the study. Data were collected through individual and focus group interviews, post-seminar reflections and testimonial surveys, researcher's field notes, and PSTs' school placement reports. This study highlighted that supportive, practical and critical participatory approaches are crucial to encourage PSTs to question and change their assessment conceptions, and to improve their assessment literacy. Results also showed that, despite struggling to avoid practicing what they experienced as school students (i.e. socialisation experiences), PSTs can alter their assessment understanding and practices to incorporate assessment for learning principles. Teacher educators are encouraged to consider how they can best acknowledge and address the pre-conceived assessment conceptions PSTs bring into these programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are many factors and duties that novice teachers do not know about when they enter the profession. Isolation, for instance, affects physical education (PE) teachers because the position often comes with a secluded workplace adjacent to the gym and through the subject's marginalization. These challenges, among others, can send the novice teacher into shock, and there is a risk the teacher becomes disengaged from the profession. This study aimed to provide insights into PE teachers' experiences of reality shock, isolation, and marginalization over time, as well as how they managed these challenges. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine Swedish PE teachers six to 10 years after graduation from PE teacher education (PETE). Qualitative content analysis was used. All participants retrospectively described a reality shock when they were novices, where non-subject-specific teacher assignments were experienced as more challenging compared to teaching PE. Further, isolation had a severe effect. However, the marginalization of PE was not that apparent as when they were novices. Over time, the participants created their own networks to mitigate, for example, isolation. In turn, marginalization seemed to be a remaining challenge to the participants despite an increased societal focus on health. Even though it is impossible for PETE to prepare teachers for every challenge they could face in the profession, PETE should inform preservice teachers of common phenomena such as isolation and marginalization, as well as how to create supporting networks. Further, we argue that perceived autonomy combined with systematic guidance could positively affect novice teachers' development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Engaging children and young people (CYP) with and without their parents in health research has the potential to improve the development and implementation of health interventions. However, to our knowledge, the scope of engagement activities used with this population and barriers to their engagement is unknown. The objective of this review was to identify and describe CYP engagement with and without their parents in the development and/or implementation of health interventions. Methods: This scoping review included any primary research studies reporting on engaging CYP, with or without parents, in the design and/or implementation of health interventions. Healthcare professionals had to be involved over the course of the study and the study had to take place in either community, primary or tertiary care settings. The following databases were searched in May 2017, May 2020 and June 2021: Medline (OVID), CINAHL (EBSCO) and Embase (Elsevier). Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts and full‐text articles and used a previously piloted extraction form to extract and summarize information from the included articles. Results: Twenty‐eight articles discussing twenty‐four studies were included. CYP engagement throughout the research cycle was limited. There were no observed differences in the reported presence of engagement, types of interventions or outcomes of engagement between studies engaging CYP or CYP and parents. Studies engaging CYP and parents contained limited information on how these relationships affected outcomes of engagement. Engagement was enabled primarily by the maintenance of resources and relationships among stakeholders. Conclusions: Although CYP engagement often influenced health intervention and implementation design, they are inconsistently engaged across the research cycle. It is unclear whether parental involvement enhances CYP engagement. Future research should consider reporting guidelines to clarify the level of CYP and/or parent engagement, and enhance CYP engagement by fostering synergistic and sustainable partnerships with key stakeholders. Patient or Public Contribution: A parent partner with codesign experience contributed to the creation of the research questions, screened titles, abstracts and full texts, helped with data extraction and provided feedback on the manuscript. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have demonstrated that structural variants (SV) play a substantial role in the evolution of species and have an impact on Mendelian traits in the genome. However, unlike small variants (< 50 bp), it has been challenging to accurately identify and genotype SV at the population scale using short-read sequencing. Long-read sequencing technologies are becoming competitively priced and can address several of the disadvantages of short-read sequencing for the discovery and genotyping of SV. In livestock species, analysis of SV at the population scale still faces challenges due to the lack of resources, high costs, technological barriers, and computational limitations. In this review, we summarize recent progress in the characterization of SV in the major livestock species, the obstacles that still need to be overcome, as well as the future directions in this growing field. It seems timely that research communities pool resources to build global population-scale long-read sequencing consortiums for the major livestock species for which the application of genomic tools has become cost-effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Disorganised and chaotic home environments may hinder the adoption of healthy lifestyle behaviours and contribute to excessive weight gain among adolescents. We examined whether self-reported level of chaos within the family home environment is associated with lifestyle behaviours and obesity in adolescent girls and boys. Methods: Cross-sectional data from the 3rd wave of the Québec Adipose and Lifestyle Investigation in Youth (QUALITY) study were analyzed. The sample consisted of n = 377 White adolescents with a history of parental obesity. Home environment chaos was measured using the Confusion, Hubbub, and Order Scale (CHAOS) analyzed both continuously and dichotomized as high vs. low chaos. Body Mass Index z-scores (zBMI) were computed using WHO standards from measured weight and height. Physical activity (7-day accelerometry), vegetable and fruit intake (three 24-hour diet recalls), and leisure screen time and sleep duration (questionnaire) were assessed. Sex-specific linear regression models were used to estimate associations between level of family home environment chaos, lifestyle behaviours and zBMI. Results: The overall level of chaos was low in our study sample, with higher reported levels among girls compared to boys. Among girls, high (vs low) chaos was associated with shorter sleep duration (hours/day) (B = - 0.44, 95% CI: -0.75, -0.14). No associations were observed for other lifestyle behaviours or for zBMI. Conclusion: In this sample of adolescents with a parental history of obesity, higher household chaos was not associated with obesity or lifestyle behaviours, except for sleep duration among girls. Replication of findings in more diverse samples is indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Precision medicine with gene panel testing based on next-generation sequencing for patients with cancer is being used increasingly in clinical practice. HER2, which encodes the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), is a potentially important driver gene. However, therapeutic strategies aimed at mutations in the HER2 extracellular domain have not been clarified. We therefore investigated the effect of EGFR co-targeted therapy with HER2 on patient-derived cancer models with the HER2 extracellular domain mutation E401G, based on our previous findings that this mutation has an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mediated activation mechanism. Methods: We generated a xenograft (PDX) and a cancer tissue-originated spheroid (CTOS) from a patient's cancer containing an amplified HER2 E401G mutation. With these platforms, we compared the efficacy of afatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor having anti-HER2 and anti-EGFR activity, with two other therapeutic options: lapatinib, which has similar properties but weaker EGFR inhibition, and trastuzumab plus pertuzumab, for which evidence exists of treatment efficacy against cancers with wild-type HER2 amplification. Similar experiments were also performed with H2170, a cell line with wild-type HER2 amplification, to contrast the characteristics of these drug's efficacies against HER2 E401G. Results: We confirmed that PDX and CTOS retained morphological and immunohistochemical characteristics and HER2 gene profiles of the original tumor. In both PDX and CTOS, afatinib reduced tumor size more than lapatinib or trastuzumab plus pertuzumab. In addition, afatinib treatment resulted in a statistically significant reduction in HER2 copy number at the end of treatment. On the other hand, in H2170 xenografts with wild-type HER2 amplification, trastuzumab plus pertuzumab was most effective. Conclusions: Afatinib, a dual inhibitor of HER2 and EGFR, showed a promising effect on cancers with amplified HER2 E401G, which have an EGFR-mediated activation mechanism. Analysis of the activation mechanisms of mutations and development of therapeutic strategies based on those mechanisms are critical in precision medicine for cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study reports the outcomes of Communities for Healthy Living (CHL), a cluster randomized obesity prevention trial implemented in partnership with Head Start, a federally-funded preschool program for low-income families. Methods: Using a stepped wedge design, Head Start programs (n = 16; Boston, MA, USA) were randomly assigned to one of three intervention start times. CHL involved a media campaign and enhanced nutrition support. Parents were invited to join Parents Connect for Healthy Living (PConnect), a 10-week wellness program. At the beginning and end of each school year (2017-2019), data were collected on the primary outcome of child Body Mass Index z-score (BMIz) and modified BMIz, and secondary outcomes of child weight-related behaviors (diet, physical activity, sleep, media use) and parents' weight-related parenting practices and empowerment. Data from 2 years, rather than three, were utilized to evaluate CHL due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We used mixed effects linear regression to compare relative differences during intervention vs. control periods (n = 1274 vs. 2476 children) in (1) mean change in child BMIz and modified BMIz, (2) the odds of meeting child health behavior recommendations, (3) mean change in parenting practices, and (4) mean change in parent empowerment. We also compared outcomes among parents who chose post-randomization to participate in PConnect vs. not (n = 55 vs. 443). Results: During intervention periods (vs. control), children experienced greater increases in BMIz and modified BMIz (b = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.02,0.10; b = 0.07, 95% CI = 0.03, 0.12), yet were more likely to meet recommendations related to three of eight measured behaviors: sugar-sweetened beverage consumption (i.e., rarely consume; Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.2,2.3), water consumption (i.e., multiple times per day; OR = 1.6, 95% CI = 1.2,2.3), and screen time (i.e., ≤1 hour/day; OR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.0,1.8). No statistically significant differences for intervention (vs. control) periods were observed in parent empowerment or parenting practices. However, parents who enrolled in PConnect (vs. not) demonstrated greater increases in empowerment (b = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.04,0.31). Conclusions: Interventions that emphasize parent engagement may increase parental empowerment. Intervention exposure was associated with statistically, but not clinically, significant increases in BMIz and increased odds of meeting recommendations for three child behaviors; premature trial suspension may explain mixed results. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03334669, Registered October 2017. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Professional identity development in professional master's (PM) athletic training students occurs over time and is influenced by numerous socializing factors. Although socialization processes of athletic training students have been examined, professional identity development related to the Weidman et al graduate and professional student socialization framework [Weidman JC, Twale DJ, Stein EL, et al. Socialization of Graduate and Professional Students in Higher Education: A Perilous Passage? ASHE-ERIC higher education report. Vol 28, No. 3. Jossey-Bass Higher and Adult Education Series; 2001] has never been examined in athletic training. This model values the multiple networks, individuals, and experiences that influence graduate students throughout their program. To assess the lived experiences of 1 cohort of students enrolled in a PM athletic training program and determine what curricular and clinical education factors influence the development of professional identity. Qualitative study. Focus group interview. Ten of 12 (83%) students (5 females and 5 males) from a single PM athletic training cohort program participated. We conducted a focus group interview, which we transcribed verbatim, with participants during the last week of their last semester in the PM athletic training program. Data analysis was deductive and then inductive throughout the coding process, and we reached data saturation at the individual participant and cohort levels. We ensured trustworthiness through multiple analyst triangulation, peer expert review, and multiple data sources. Three factors influenced the development of the PM athletic training student's professional identity: (1) their clinical education experiences, (2) the cohort experience, and (3) their school/life balance. Within the clinical education experience, the immersive experience, clinical setting, and patients and preceptors were also influential. This study used the Weidman et al socialization model. The experiences of PM athletic training students and their professional identity development are inclusive of the relationship with others throughout the educational experience, as well as their self-reflective practices within the field. It is important for stakeholders to understand the many factors that influence professional identity development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Parents play an influential role in the health behaviors of their children, such as physical activity, dietary intake, sleep, screen time, and substance use. However, further research is needed to inform the development of more effective and engaging parent-based interventions targeting adolescent risk behaviors. Objective: This study aimed to assess parents' knowledge about adolescent risk behaviors, barriers and facilitators to engaging in healthy behaviors, and preferences for a parent-based prevention intervention. Methods: An anonymous web-based survey was conducted from June 2022 to August 2022. Eligible participants were parents of children aged 11 to 18 years and were residing in Australia at the time of this study. The survey assessed the parents' perceived and actual knowledge about Australian health guidelines for youth, parent and adolescent engagement in health behaviors, parenting style and attitudes, barriers and facilitators to engaging in healthy behaviors, and delivery and component preferences for a parent-based preventive intervention. Descriptive statistics and logistic regressions were conducted to analyze the data. Results: A total of 179 eligible participants completed the survey. The mean age of the parents was 42.22 (SD 7.03) years, and 63.1% (101/160) were female. Parent-reported sleep duration was high for both parents (mean 8.31, SD 1.00 hours) and adolescents (mean 9.18, SD 0.94 hours). However, the proportion of parents who reported that their child met the national recommendations for physical activity (5/149, 3.4%), vegetable intake (7/126, 5.6%), and weekend recreational screen time (7/130, 5.4%) was very low. Overall, parents' perceived knowledge of health guidelines was moderate, ranging from 50.6% (80/158) for screen time to 72.8% (115/158) for sleep guidelines (for children aged 5-13 years). Actual knowledge was lowest for vegetable intake and physical activity, with only 44.2% (46/104) and 42% (31/74) of parents reporting correct guidelines for these behaviors, respectively. The key issues of concern reported by parents were excessive use of technology, mental health, e-cigarette use, and negative peer relationships. The top-rated delivery method for a parent-based intervention was via a website (53/129, 41.1%). The highest rated intervention component was opportunities for goal-setting (89/126, 70.7% rated very or extremely important), and other important program features were ease of use (89/122, 72.9%), paced learning (79/126, 62.7%), and appropriate program length (74/126, 58.8%). Conclusions: The findings suggest that such interventions should be brief and web based and should aim to increase parental knowledge of health guidelines; provide opportunities for skill-building, such as goal-setting; and include effective behavior change techniques, such as motivational interviewing and social support. This study will inform the development of future parent-based preventive interventions to prevent multiple lifestyle risk behaviors among adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When teachers care for children with trauma histories, they are at risk of developing compassion fatigue (CF), or a reduced empathic capacity (Hupe and Stevenson in J Child Custody Res Issues Pract 16(4):364–386, 2019. https://doi.org/10.1080/15379418.2019.1663334). They may also develop secondary traumatic stress (STS), a secondary condition resulting from a person learning about details of a traumatic event experienced by someone in their care (Essary et al. in Kappa Delta Pi Record 56(3):116–121, 2020). While CF and STS have been studied widely in healthcare and mental health professionals (Baird and Kracen in Couns Psychol Q 19(2):181–188, 2006; Caringi et al. in Adv Sch Ment Health Promot 8(4):244–256, 2015. https://doi.org/10.1080/1754730X.2015.1080123; Cieslak et al. in Psychol Serv 11(1):75–86, 2014), STS and CF have been understudied in the teaching profession (Caringi et al., 2015; Christian-Brandt et al. in Child Abuse Neglect 110(3):104437, 2020; Hupe & Stevenson, 2019). As such, we sought to complete a systematic review of the literature to answer two questions: (1) To what extent are CF and STS being studied in teachers?; and (2) How have CF and STS been studied in teachers? Qualitative data analysis led to the emergence of four themes across all included studies: (1) conceptualization of CF and STS; (2) teachers are at risk of developing CF and STS; (3) varying approaches can mitigate the risk of CF and STS in teachers; and (4) there is limited research on CF and STS in teachers. Limitations and directions for future research and practice are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the known relationship between trauma and academic outcomes, including expulsion risk, for preschoolers, little is known about the role that teachers may play in addressing the effects of childhood trauma within preschool settings. The current study examined the relationship between a teacher's overall stress, trauma-informed attitudes, and indicators of children's expulsion decision risk using a sample of preschool lead and assistant teachers (n = 129) recruited from Head Start classrooms in the Mountain West. Multivariate multiple regression was used to determine whether teachers stress and trauma-informed attitudes (trauma-informed knowledge, self-efficacy, and reactions) were related to three indicators of expulsion decision risk using subscales of the Preschool Expulsion Risk Measure (classroom disruption, fear of accountability, and child-related stress) for the most disruptive child in the teacher's classroom. Higher overall stress significantly predicted higher fear of accountability (β = 0.26, 95% CI = 0.07,.45, p = 0.007). Higher trauma-informed knowledge was significantly related to lower child-related stress (β = −0.40, 95% CI = −0.63, −.17, p = 0.001). Higher trauma-informed self-efficacy was significantly related to lower classroom disruption (β = −0.45, 95% CI = −0.66, −.25, p < 0.001). Multigroup models revealed significantly different pathways for children of color (Black, Latinx, and American Indian children) compared to White children; teacher stress predicted higher expulsion decision risk for children of color and trauma-informed attitudes predicted lower expulsion decision risk for White children. Implications for development and evaluation of trauma-informed approaches for early childhood settings are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders are known to be heritable, but studies trying to elucidate the genetic architecture of such traits often lag behind studies of somatic traits and diseases. The reasons as to why relatively few genome-wide significant associations have been reported for such traits have to do with the sample sizes needed for the detection of small effects, the difficulty in defining and characterizing the phenotypes, partially due to overlaps in affected underlying domains (which is especially true for cognitive phenotypes), and the complex genetic architectures of the phenotypes, which are not wholly captured in traditional case–control GWAS designs. We aimed to tackle the last two issues by performing GWASs of eight quantitative neurocognitive, motor, social-cognitive and social-behavioral traits, which may be considered endophenotypes for a variety of psychiatric and neurodevelopmental conditions, and for which we employed models capturing both general genetic association and parent-of-origin effects, in a family-based sample comprising 402 children and their parents (mostly family trios). We identified 48 genome-wide significant associations across several traits, of which 3 also survived our strict study-wide quality criteria. We additionally performed a functional annotation of implicated genes, as most of the 48 associations were with variants within protein-coding genes. In total, our study highlighted associations with five genes (TGM3, CACNB4, ANKS1B, CSMD1 and SYNE1) associated with measures of working memory, processing speed and social behavior. Our results thus identify novel associations, including previously unreported parent-of-origin associations with relevant genes, and our top results illustrate new potential gene → endophenotype → disorder pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have identified stressors in physical education (PE) teachers. However, these studies lack a comprehensive consideration of potential teaching-related stressors combined with an analysis of differences in these potential stressors between different career stages. Given that many physical education teachers suffer from stress, the purpose of the present study was to investigate potential stressors in three career stages of (prospective) physical education teachers (student teachers, pre-service teachers, teachers) in order to further develop their education in terms of stress management. The results of a survey of 723 German (prospective) physical education teachers (255 student teachers, 117 pre-service teachers, 351 teachers) showed that, overall, noise, heterogeneity of students, and inadequate curriculum were reported to be the most frequent potential stressors. When controlling for teaching hours per week, teachers, and pre-service teachers did not differ in the frequency of potential stressors. However, both teachers and pre-service teachers reported significantly less lack of facilities/equipment, pupils' discipline problems, and lack of pupils' motivation than student teachers, and significantly more noise than PE student teachers. Additionally, teachers reported more heterogeneity of pupils than student teachers. These findings can be explained by characteristics of the specific career stages. For practical application, it can be concluded that there is a need for coping interventions that are tailored to the stressors which are salient in a specific career phase. In future research, studies should investigate stressors in different career stages longitudinally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Black adolescents commonly experience unfair treatment from teachers and other school staff that can undermine Black adolescents' engagement in school and their perceptions of adults as trustworthy. Objective: This study aimed to address the overarching research question: "How do unfair experiences with school staff manifest and impact Black adolescents?". Method: This study used a mixed methods approach guided by two sub-questions. Our qualitative strand of inquiry used interview data from 25 Black adolescents, their parents, and another familial adult (75 total interviews) to explore the sub-question: "How do unfair experiences with school staff unfold?" Our quantitative strand analyzed survey data from 216 Black adolescents to address the sub-question: "Is a specific type of unfair experience, teacher racial discrimination, associated with Black adolescents having fewer natural mentors (supportive non-parental adults from adolescents' everyday lives) via lower trust toward adults?". Results: Analyses of interview data suggested experiencing specific types of unfair treatment— (a) being singled out, (b) observing favoritism, (c) feeling belittled, and (d) unwarranted or overly harsh punishment—was followed by students disengaging from class, schoolwork, or teachers. Analyses of survey data indicated unfair treatment in the form of teacher racial discrimination was negatively associated with the quantity of natural mentors via lower perceptions of adults as trustworthy. Conclusions: Collectively, our findings suggest unfair treatment by school staff may set in motion a domino effect that negatively influences Black students' engagement with school and undermines their connection with supportive adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work focuses on Distance Learning during the COVID-19 pandemic to improve students' motivation, participation, and engagement, trying to contain the drop-out phenomenon. Distance Learning at the time of COVID-19 is an educational methodology and it can be considered the only occasion to keep an educational connection between students and teachers. Experimentation in a Mathematics STEM class was carried out evaluating the impact of Distance Learning on students' levels of motivation, participation, and engagement, computed through a Fuzzy Cognitive Map. Specifically, it was performed on some affective and interaction parameters derived from using an adaptive e-learning platform and from the answers of a semi-structured questionnaire. The results, which have been analysed through Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge and Instrumental Genesis theories, show on one hand that Distance Learning is valid as an additional and support methodology but, on the other hand, they highlight the ineffectiveness of completely remote teaching. Therefore, a teaching method that integrates moments of distance teaching with activities carried out in the presence, in the classroom, or in other university environments, is hoped to be used as soon as the emergency is over: a mix of styles, a fluid flow of knowledge between the physical classroom and the virtual classroom. We will call this Integrated Digital Learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several aspects of diabetes pathophysiology and complications result from hyperglycemia-induced alterations in the structure and function of plasma proteins. Furthermore, insulin has a significant influence on protein metabolism by affecting both the synthesis and degradation of proteins in various tissues. To understand the role of progressive hyperglycemia on plasma proteins, in this study, we measured the turnover rates of high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-associated proteins in control (chow diet), prediabetic [a high-fat diet (HFD) for 8 wk] or diabetic [HFD for 8 wk with low-dose streptozotocin (HFD + STZ) in weeks 5-8 of HFD] C57BL/6J mice using heavy water (²H2O)-based metabolic labeling approach. Compared with control mice, HFD and HFD + STZ mice showed elevations of fasting plasma glucose levels in the prediabetic and diabetic range, respectively. Furthermore, the HFD and HFD + STZ mice showed increased hepatic triglyceride (TG) levels, total plasma cholesterol, and plasma TGs. The kinetics of 40 proteins were quantified using the proteome dynamics method, which revealed an increase in the fractional synthesis rate (FSR) of HDL-associated proteins in the prediabetic mice compared with control mice, and a decrease in FSR in the diabetic mice. The pathway analysis revealed that proteins with altered turnover rates were involved in acute-phase response, lipid metabolism, and coagulation. In conclusion, prediabetes and diabetes have distinct effects on the turnover rates of HDL proteins. These findings suggest that an early dysregulation of the HDL proteome dynamics can provide mechanistic insights into the changes in protein levels in these conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Father Involvement is exercising positive influences on child feeding. Mothers are usually the primary caregivers for young children. The role of fathers in the proper child feeding of young children has not been a frequent topic of study. Past research has found low rates and little is known about fathers' involvement in child feeding for children 6–23 months in Ethiopia. The aim of this study is to assess fathers' involvement in child feeding children aged 6–24 Months. Objectives: To assess fathers' involvement in child feeding and associated factors among fathers having children aged 6 to 24 months. Methodology: A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from Jan 23/2022 to April 07/2022. A systematic random sampling technique was applied to select study participants. A total of 408 respondents participated in the study. Data was entered into EPI data version 3.1 and then exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression was used for analysis. Result: Father's involvement in child feeding was 43.1%. Factors that were significantly associated with good fathers involvement in child feeding include urban residence(AOR = 3.878, 95% CI = (1.408–10.678), male sex of the youngest child(AOR = 3.681, 95% CI = (1.678–8.075)), first birth order of the youngest child(AOR = 3.970, 95% CI = (1.212–13.005)), Better(secondary and higher) educational status (AOR = 4.945,95% CI = (1.043–23.454)) and AOR = 5.151, 95% CI = (1.122–23.651)), having ever heard information(AOR = 8.593, 95% CI = (3.044–24.261)), good knowledge (AOR = 3.843,95% CI = (1.318–11.210)), positive attitude (AOR = 8.565, 95% CI = (3.521–20.837)) and good culture (AOR = 10.582,95% CI = (2.818–39.734)). Conclusions: Father involvement in child feeding was poor in Antsokia Gemza Woreda. Urban residences, male sex of the youngest child, first birth order of the youngest child, better (secondary and higher) educational status, having ever heard information, good knowledge, positive attitude, and good culture were significantly associated with fathers' involvement in child feeding. Health information dissemination on father involvement in child feeding should be strengthened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the global increase in air pollution and its crucial role in human health, as well as the steep rise in prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS), a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms by which environmental pollution may influence MetS is imperative. Exposure to air pollution is known to impact DNA methylation, which in turn may affect human health. This paper comprehensively reviews the evidence for the hypothesis that the effect of air pollution on the MetS is mediated by DNA methylation in blood. First, we present a summary of the impact of air pollution on metabolic dysregulation, including the components of MetS, i.e., disorders in blood glucose, lipid profile, blood pressure, and obesity. Then, we provide evidence on the relation between air pollution and endothelial dysfunction as one possible mechanism underlying the relation between air pollution and MetS. Subsequently, we review the evidence that air pollution (PM, ozone, NO2 and PAHs) influences DNA methylation. Finally, we summarize association studies between DNA methylation and MetS. Integration of current evidence supports our hypothesis that methylation may partly mediate the effect of air pollution on MetS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, regulate gene expression and play a role in the development of insulin resistance. This study evaluates how the BMI z-score (BMIz) and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), alone or in combination, relate to clinical outcomes and DNA methylation patterns in prepubertal children. DNA methylation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and clinical outcomes were measured in a cohort of 41 prepubertal children. Children with higher HOMA-IR had higher blood pressure and plasma lactate levels while children with higher BMIz had higher triglycerides levels. Moreover, the DNA methylation analysis demonstrated that a 1 unit increase in the BMIz was associated with a 0.41 (95% CI: 0.29, 0.53) increase in methylation of a CpG near the PPP6R2 gene. This gene is important in the regulation of NF-kB expression. However, there was no strong evidence that the BMIz and the HOMA-IR were synergistically related to any clinical or DNA methylation outcomes. In summary, the results suggest that obesity and insulin resistance may impact metabolic health both independently in prepubertal children. In addition, obesity also has an impact on the DNA methylation of the PPP6R2 gene. This may be a novel underlying starting point for the systemic inflammation associated with obesity and insulin resistance, in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identical genetic variations can have different phenotypic effects depending on their parent of origin. Yet, studies focusing on parent-of-origin effects have been limited in terms of sample size due to the lack of parental genomes or known genealogies. We propose a probabilistic approach to infer the parent-of-origin of individual alleles that does not require parental genomes nor prior knowledge of genealogy. Our model uses Identity-By-Descent sharing with second- and third-degree relatives to assign alleles to parental groups and leverages chromosome X data in males to distinguish maternal from paternal groups. We combine this with robust haplotype inference and haploid imputation to infer the parent-of-origin for 26,393 UK Biobank individuals. We screen 99 phenotypes for parent-of-origin effects and replicate the discoveries of 6 GWAS studies, confirming signals on body mass index, type 2 diabetes, standing height and multiple blood biomarkers, including the known maternal effect at the MEG3/DLK1 locus on platelet phenotypes. We also report a novel maternal effect at the TERT gene on telomere length, thereby providing new insights on the heritability of this phenotype. All our summary statistics are publicly available to help the community to better characterize the molecular mechanisms leading to parent-of-origin effects and their implications for human health. Studies on parent-of-origin effects have been limited in terms of sample size due to lack of parental genomes or known genealogies. Here, the authors develop a method to infer the parent-of-origin of an individual alleles in biobank-scale datasets, without requiring parental genomes or prior knowledge of genealogy, allowing discovery of parent-of-origin effects with an unprecedented sample size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of obesity and its associated metabolic disorders, along with their healthcare costs, is rising exponentially. Irisin, an adipomyokine, may serve as a critical cross-organ messenger, linking skeletal muscle with adipose tissue and the liver to integrate the energy homeostasis under diet-induced obesity. We aimed to explore the putative role of irisin in the protection against obesity in a postmenopausal rat model by modulating energy expenditure (EE). Bilateral ovariectomy (OVX) was performed. After 3 weeks of recovery, the OVX rats were classified according to their dietary protocol into rats maintained on normal diets (ND) (OVX) or high-fat diet (HFD) groups. The HFD-fed animals were equally divided into OVX/HFD, or irisin-treated OVX/HFD groups. Sham rats, maintained on ND, were selected as the control group. We evaluated anthropometric, EE, and molecular biomarkers of browning and thermogenesis in inguinal white adipose tissue and skeletal muscle, and the activity of the proteins related to mitochondrial long chain fatty acid transport, oxidation, and glycolysis. HFD of OVX further deteriorated the disturbed glucose homeostasis, lipid profile, and the reduced irisin, thermogenic parameters in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle, and EE. Irisin treatment improved the lipid profile and insulin resistance. That was associated with reduced hepatic gluconeogenic enzyme activities and restored hepatic glycogen content. Irisin reduced ectopic lipid infiltration. Irisin augmented EE by activating non-shivering thermogenesis in muscle and adipose tissues and decreasing metabolic efficiency. Our experimental evidence suggests irisin's use as a potential thermogenic agent, therapeutically targeting obesity in postmenopausal patients. Irisin modulates the non-shivering thermogenesis in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue in postmenopausal model [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, many in-person health behavior interventions were compelled to quickly pivot to a virtual format with little time or capacity to reflect on or examine possible equity-related implications of a format that required digital access and remote learning skills. Using a parenting program for low-income families as a case study, this paper (a) outlines the process of adapting the program from an in-person to a virtual format and (b) examines the equity-related implications of this adaptation. Parents Connect for Healthy Living (PConnect) is a 10-session empowerment-focused parenting intervention designed to promote family health for Head Start families. In 2020, PConnect was adapted over a 6-month period from an in-person to a virtual format due to the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. Three core elements were retained in the adaptation; session content, provision of coaching support for facilitators, and the co-facilitation model. Key modifications include session length, group composition, and language of program delivery. Head Start and PConnect records provided data to compare reach, acceptability, and appropriateness of virtual and in-person PConnect. Seventy-eight parents enrolled in the in-person program and 58 in the virtual program. Participant demographics and satisfaction were similar across formats, and demographics similar to the general Head Start population. Participation was higher in the virtual format. Parents participated in the virtual program primarily via smart phones (68%). This case study supports the acceptability and appropriateness of virtual parenting programs in ethnically diverse, low-resource settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on sport pedagogy doctoral students' (DSs') occupational socialization should improve understanding of their beliefs and espoused practices regarding physical education teacher education (PETE), how these beliefs and espoused practices were shaped, and facilitate improvements in graduate education. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to describe the influence of occupational socialization on the PETE programs sport pedagogy DSs intended to deliver once they began life as faculty members in universities and colleges. The specific research questions we sought to answer were as follows: (a) How did DSs intend to conduct PETE? and (b) How had DSs' views and beliefs regarding PETE been shaped by their occupational socialization? Participants were eight DSs located at four American universities. Data were collected with four interpretive techniques (formal and informal interviews, documents and artifacts, and a written outline of an ideal PETE program) and analyzed using analytic induction and constant comparison. DSs had conservative, liberal, and eclectic beliefs regarding PETE. They favored using elements from the behaviorist, traditional/craft, and critical-inquiry orientations to teacher education. The forces that shaped the DSs' views and beliefs were mostly similar to those described in previous research, although there were some new and nuanced findings. The study indicates the need for DSs to explore their own views regarding physical education and PETE and the forces that shaped their perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to predator threat induces a rapid and robust increase in skeletal muscle thermogenesis in rats. The central nervous system relays threat information to skeletal muscle through activation of the sympathetic nervous system, but muscle mechanisms mediating this thermogenesis remain unidentified. Given the relevance of sarcolipin-mediated futile calcium cycling through the sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) pump to mammalian muscle nonshivering thermogenesis, we hypothesized that this plays a role in contextually induced muscle thermogenesis as well. This was assessed by measuring enzymatic activity of SERCA and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ transport, where the apparent coupling ratio (Ca2+ uptake rate divided by ATPase activity rate at a standard Ca2+ concentration) was predicted to decrease in association with muscle thermogenesis. Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to predator (ferret) odor (PO) showed a rapid decrease in the apparent coupling ratio in the soleus muscle, indicating SERCA uncoupling compared with control-odor-exposed rats. A rat model of high aerobic fitness and elevated muscle thermogenesis also demonstrated soleus muscle SERCA uncoupling relative to their obesity-prone, low-fitness counterparts. Both the high- and low-aerobic fitness rats showed soleus SERCA uncoupling with exposure to PO. Finally, no increase in sarcolipin expression in soleus muscle was detected with PO exposure. This dataset implicates muscle uncoupling of SERCA Ca2+ transport and ATP hydrolysis, likely through altered SERCA or sarcolipin function outside of translational regulation, as one contributor to the muscle thermogenesis provoked by exposure to predator threat. These data support the involvement of SERCA uncoupling in both muscle thermogenic induction and enhanced aerobic capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The objective of this study was to apply a strength-based approach to examine the relation of cultural and social determinants to high family functioning for Aboriginal people in Central Australia. Design Cross-sectional study involving a quantitative analysis of survey data. Prevalence rate ratios (PRs) and 95% CIs were calculated from binomial regressions, adjusted for gender and age. Qualitative data from workshops with Aboriginal leaders in Central Australia supported the interpretation of the research findings. Participants The study involved 639 Aboriginal people in Central Australia who participated in the Mayi Kuwayu Study. Result Overall, 57.9% (370/639) of participants reported high/very high family functioning, 16.9% (108/639) reported moderate and 13.3% (85/639) reported low. The adjusted prevalence of family functioning was similar across gender, age groups and household sizes. Family functioning was associated with lower family financial status (aPR=0.74, 95% CI=0.60 to 0.91) and receiving welfare (0.88, 0.77 to 1.00). Family functioning was greater with high community cohesion (2.72, 1.68 to 4.39), high individual agency in community (2.15, 1.63 to 2.85); having an Aboriginal language as a first language (1.20, 1.04 to 1.37); speaking your Aboriginal language a lot (1.37, 1.12 to 1.68); high exposure to cultural practice and knowledge (1.45, 1.28 to 1.65); and multigenerational or extended family households (1.19, 1.02 to 1.38). Conclusion High family functioning is a strength in Central Australia and is intrinsically connected with culture. Healthcare providers and programmes that build on the foundations of culture and family are an important approach to improving wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Each mammalian autosomal gene is represented by two alleles in diploid cells. To our knowledge, no insights have been made in regard to allele-specific regulatory mechanisms of autosomes. Here we use allele-specific single cell transcriptomic analysis to elucidate the establishment of monoallelic gene expression in the cardiac lineage. We find that monoallelically expressed autosomal genes in mESCs and mouse blastocyst cells are differentially regulated based on the genetic background of the parental alleles. However, the genetic background of the allele does not affect the establishment of monoallelic genes in differentiated cardiomyocytes. Additionally, we observe epigenetic differences between deterministic and random autosomal monoallelic genes. Moreover, we also find a greater contribution of the maternal versus paternal allele to the development and homeostasis of cardiac tissue and in cardiac health, highlighting the importance of maternal influence in male cardiac tissue homeostasis. Our findings emphasize the significance of allele-specific insights into gene regulation in development, homeostasis and disease.The authors use allele-specific single cell transcriptomic analysis to elucidate the establishment of monoallelic gene expression in the cardiac lineage. The findings emphasize the importance of allele-specific insight into gene regulation in development, homeostasis and disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parent–adolescent relationships play an important role in protecting adolescents from depressive symptoms. However, there are no consistent conclusions about the extent to which fathers and mothers uniquely contribute to adolescents' depressive symptoms. The present study aimed to acquire knowledge in this research area in two ways. First, this study separated the potential impacts of father–child and mother–child relationships on depressive symptoms in Chinese adolescents. Second, this study used a longitudinal design with nationally representative samples from the China Education Panel Survey. A total of 8794 middle school students in grade 7 completed measures of father–adolescent and mother–adolescent relationships, and depressive symptoms twice (T1 and T2; one-year interval). Results indicated that both positive father–adolescent and mother–adolescent relationships had negative effects on depressive symptoms in female adolescents. However, positive father-adolescent, not mother-adolescent, relationships had a negative effect on depressive symptoms in male adolescents. These findings suggest that positive parent–adolescent relationships could reduce early adolescents' depressive symptoms, but positive father–adolescent and mother–adolescent relationships might have different protective effects on early adolescents' depressive symptoms among male and female adolescents in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This randomised controlled trial evaluated changes in parental self‐efficacy and children's weight, after a Child‐Centred Health Dialogue about preventing obesity. Methods: We randomly assigned 37 Child Health Centres in Skåne county Sweden to provide usual care or the dialogue intervention. They included centres from high and low socioeconomic areas. The outcomes were changes in parental self‐efficacy and any moderating effect on their children's body mass index 1 year later. Results: The baseline data were based on 1115 mothers and 869 fathers representing 1197 children (52% females) aged 4 years (3.9–4.2) with a standardised body mass index (zBMI) of 0.1 ± 0.9. The participation rates at follow‐up, 1.1 ± 0.2 years after the intervention were 817 mothers and 508 fathers. Overall, parental self‐efficacy had decreased by the 1‐year follow‐up. There was a significant intervention effect on maternal self‐efficacy in promoting physical activity, however with unclear clinical relevance. Mothers' change in perceived self‐efficacy in promoting a healthy diet seemed to moderate the intervention effect on zBMI change in children with zBMI > 0 with −0.01 (95% CI: −0.025 to −0.001; p = 0.03). Conclusion: Our study suggested a possible link between increased maternal self‐efficacy in promoting a healthy diet and a favourable development of zBMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Competitive computer gaming, known as electronic sport or esport, is growing and professionalizing profoundly during the past years with experts struggling to allocate it in society. This scoping review explores existing evidence and identifies potential societal impact of esport by applying the Mapping Elite Sports Societal Impact Model. Main findings included insights on the motivation of passive and active esport consumption, beneficial socializing, pedagogical or educational aspects, hegemonial clinical pictures in esport, differing popularity regarding demographics and games, and potential interference of the esport economy in traditional sports. The findings implicate a paradigm shift in the world of sport. It can be stated that esport affects society in a positive and a negative way, although the fragmented body of research has only given superficial evidence so far. Future research needs to go into detail regarding the peculiarities and find approaches of isolating the positive aspects, while reducing the negative spin-offs and allow a well-regulated handling of esport on a broad societal level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]