bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cpt1a silencing in AgRP neurons improves cognitive and physical capacity and promotes healthy aging in male mice
Authors: Ibeas Kevin , Griñán‐Ferré Christian , del Mar Romero Maria , Sebastián David , Bastías‐Pérez Marianela , Gómez Roberto , Soler‐Vázquez M. Carmen , Zagmutt Sebastián , Pallás Mercè , Castell Margarida , Belsham Denise D. , Mera Paula , Herrero Laura , Serra Dolors
Published: November 2023

Orexigenic neurons expressing agouti‐related protein (AgRP) and neuropeptide Y in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) of the hypothalamus are activated in response to dynamic variations in the metabolic state, including exercise. We previously observed that carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1a (CPT1A), a rate‐limiting enzyme of mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation, is a key factor in AgRP neurons, modulating whole‐body energy balance and fluid homeostasis. However, the effect of CPT1A in AgRP neurons in aged mice and during exercise has not been explored yet. We have evaluated the physical and cognitive capacity of adult and aged mutant male mice lacking Cpt1a in AgRP neurons (Cpt1a KO). Adult Cpt1a KO male mice exhibited enhanced endurance performance, motor coordination, locomotion, and exploration compared with control mice. No changes were observed in anxiety‐related behavior, cognition, and muscle strength. Adult Cpt1a KO mice showed a reduction in gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscle mass. The cross‐sectional area (CSA) of these muscles were smaller than those of control mice displaying a myofiber remodeling from type II to type I fibers. In aged mice, changes in myofiber remodeling were maintained in Cpt1a KO mice, avoiding loss of physical capacity during aging progression. Additionally, aged Cpt1a KO mice revealed better cognitive skills, reduced inflammation, and oxidative stress in the hypothalamus and hippocampus. In conclusion, CPT1A in AgRP neurons appears to modulate health and protects against aging. Future studies are required to clarify whether CPT1A is a potential antiaging candidate for treating diseases affecting memory and physical activity.
Placing constraints on the nature of short‐term eustatic curves
Authors: Davies Andrew , Simmons Michael D.
Published: November 2023

The isolation of the eustatic signal from the sedimentary record is a challenging task, and accordingly, there is no consensus on the magnitude and pace (rate) of eustatic events in the geological record. Here we critically assess various published short‐term Cretaceous eustatic curves using insights from forward stratigraphic modelling. We generate a range of simulations with varying eustatic rates and sediment supply against a background of constant subsidence. From these, we generate statistics on the accommodation change associated with the various systems tracts for different sediment supply. We quantify the minimum rate needed to generate transgressive systems tracts (TST). Using this threshold and average subsidence rates for passive margins and intracratonic basins, we document some key challenges with a range of Cretaceous eustatic curves. While it is possible to complexify, this approach through the inclusion of other parameters, our results provide a framework for evaluating eustatic (or relative sea level) curves in terms of the implied rate of change of accommodation. Given these caveats, we also show that many estimates of the magnitude of short‐term transgressions are of insufficient rate to generate observable TST. Further, our work places an upper limit on the time frame over which aquifer and thermo‐eustasy can have observable impacts on the rock record, providing support for the action of glacio‐eustasy during the Cretaceous.
The current role and future potential of digital diagnostic imaging in implant dentistry: A scoping review
Authors: Fuglsig João Marcus de Carvalho e Silva , Reis Isabella Neme Ribeiro dos , Yeung Andy Wai Kan , Bornstein Michael M. , Spin‐Neto Rubens
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Diagnostic imaging is crucial for implant dentistry. This review provides an up‐to‐date perspective on the application of digital diagnostic imaging in implant dentistry.

Methods

Electronic searches were conducted in PubMed focusing on the question ‘when (and why) do we need diagnostic imaging in implant dentistry?’ The search results were summarised to identify different applications of digital diagnostic imaging in implant dentistry.

Results

The most used imaging modalities in implant dentistry include intraoral periapical radiographs, panoramic views and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). These are dependent on acquisition standardisation to optimise image quality. Particularly for CBCT, other technical parameters (i.e., tube current, tube voltage, field‐of‐view, voxel size) are relevant minimising the occurrence of artefacts. There is a growing interest in digital workflows, integrating diagnostic imaging and automation. Artificial intelligence (AI) has been incorporated into these workflows and is expected to play a significant role in the future of implant dentistry. Preliminary evidence supports the use of ionising‐radiation‐free imaging modalities (e.g., MRI and ultrasound) that can add value in terms of soft tissue visualisation.

Conclusions

Digital diagnostic imaging is the sine qua non in implant dentistry. Image acquisition protocols must be tailored to the patient's needs and clinical indication, considering the trade‐off between radiation exposure and needed information. growing evidence supporting the benefits of digital workflows, from planning to execution, and the future of implant dentistry will likely involve a synergy between human expertise and AI‐driven intelligence. Transiting into ionising‐radiation‐free imaging modalities is feasible, but these must be further developed before clinical implementation.
How to Tell a Dualist?
Authors: Berent Iris
Published: November 2023

People exhibit conflicting intuitions concerning the mind/body links. Here, I explore a novel explanation for these inconsistencies: Dualism is a violable constraint that interacts with Essentialism. Two experiments probe these interactions. In Experiment 1, participants evaluated the emergence of psychological traits in either a replica of one's body, or in the afterlife—after the body's demise. In line with Dualism, epistemic (i.e., disembodied) traits (e.g., knowing the contrast between good/bad) were considered more likely to emerge (relative to sensorimotor/affective traits) only in the afterlife. However, so were innate traits (in line with Essentialism). To further gauge Essentialism, Experiment 2 presented the same traits to innateness judgments. Here, sensorimotor/affective (i.e., embodied) traits were considered more likely to be innate, suggesting that innateness intuitions are informed by embodiment. Moreover, innateness judgments (in Experiment 2) and embodiment intuitions (in Experiment 1) correlated. These results suggest that Dualism tacitly constrains reasoning about one's innate origins and its persistence after death. But since Dualism is “soft” and interacts with Essentialism, supernatural intuitions are chimeric, not purely ethereal.
Donor‐derived endemic mycoses after solid organ transplantation: A review of reported cases
Authors: Abad Cybele Lara R. , Razonable Raymund R.
Published: November 2023

Background

Donor‐derived endemic mycoses are infrequently reported. We summarized the clinical characteristics and outcomes of these infections to provide guidance to transplant clinicians.

Methods

Multiple databases were reviewed from inception through May 31, 2023 using endemic fungi as key words (e.g., Coccidioides, histoplasma, blastomyces, talaromyces, paracoccidioides). Only donor‐derived infections (DDI) were included.

Results

Twenty‐four cases of DDI were identified from 18 published reports; these included 16 coccidioidomycosis, seven histoplasmosis, and one talaromycosis. No cases of blastomycosis and paracoccidiodomycosis were published. The majority were male (17/24,70.8%). Half of the cases were probable (12/24, 50%), seven were possible (29.2%), and only five were proven DDI (20.8%). Donor‐derived coccidioidomycosis were observed in kidney (n = 11), lung (n = 6), liver (n = 3), heart (n = 2) and combined SOT recipients (1 KP, 1 KL) at a median time of .9 (range .2–35) months after transplantation. For histoplasmosis, the majority were kidney recipients (6 of 7 cases) at a median onset of 8 (range .4–48) months after transplantation. The single reported possible donor‐derived talaromycosis occurred in a man whose organ donor had at‐risk travel to Southeast Asia. Collectively, the majority of donors had high‐risk exposure to Coccidioides (9/11) or Histoplasma sp. (6/6). Most donor‐derived endemic mycoses were disseminated (18/24, 75%), and mortality was reported in almost half of recipients (11/24, 45.8%).

Conclusion

Donor‐derived endemic mycoses are often disseminated and are associated with high mortality. A detailed evaluation of donors for the potential of an undiagnosed fungal infection prior to organ donation is essential to mitigate the risk of these devastating infections.
Identifying community assembling zones and connectivity pathways in the Tropical Southwestern Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Giachini Tosetto Everton , Lett Christophe , Koch‐Larrouy Ariane , Costa da Silva Alex , Neumann‐Leitão Sigrid , Nogueira Junior Miodeli , Barrier Nicolas , Dossa Alina Nathanael , Tchilibou Michel , Bauchot Perrine , Morvan Guillaume , Bertrand Arnaud
Published: November 2023

Dispersal is more intense in the ocean than on land because most marine taxa present planktonic life stages that are transported by currents even without specific morphological traits. Thus, species dispersal shapes the distribution of biodiversity along seascapes and drives the composition of biodiversity assemblages. To identify marine assembling zones which characterise spatial areas particularly prone to receive and retain similar animal assemblages from the regional pool of species through passive dispersal, we propose a community‐based approach grounded on Lagrangian simulations of plankton dispersal. This novel approach was applied to communities (coast, outer shelf, slope, seamounts and islands; 0–80 m depth) of the Tropical Southwestern Atlantic and used to assess connectivity pathways. For that, we classified the modelled particles in 15 categories according to biological traits (planktonic life duration and spawning habitat) of representative planktonic communities. From the hierarchical clustering of the multivariate matrix containing the amount of arriving particles from each category in each cell we defined 14 assembling zones. Results highlighted that the assembling zones were mostly shaped by the degree of exposure to currents and the presence of mesoscale features (eddies, recirculation) derived from the interaction between these currents and coastlines. The boundaries, dispersal and connectivity patterns of these zones consistently align with local and regional in situ spatial distribution and abundance patterns of organisms, and provide an appropriate basis for the formulation of ecological hypotheses in the metacommunity framework to be tested in situ, such as the balance between species sorting and mass effect assembling archetypes. This approach, when coupled with the knowledge of other processes shaping communities' structure and distribution, provides important insights for regions and animal groups for which knowledge is limited or absent, and more generally allows for a comprehensive overview of the distribution of distinct communities and connectivity pathways along marine environments.
Review of the role of biofilms in equine wounds: Clinical indications and treatment strategies
Authors: Marchant Kara , Hendrickson Dean A. , Pezzanite Lynn M.
Published: November 2023

Recognition of the role that biofilms play in the persistence of wounds and lack of response to therapy in horses is increasing. Prevention of biofilm development in the early stages of wound care involves three primary strategies: wound debridement and cleansing to reduce bacterial counts in the wound bed, appropriate use of advanced wound dressings and implementation of topical antimicrobial agents. Once formed, eradication of biofilms requires elimination to improve the wound environment for contraction and epithelialisation while not further harming the native cells integral to the healing process, which is achieved predominantly through repeated lavage and debridement combined with topical antimicrobial therapy. Pseudomonas, Enterococcus and Staphylococcus bacterial species have been most commonly identified in equine wounds with delayed healing. This review will establish why and how biofilms form, how to recognise clinical indications that biofilms have formed in equine wounds and review current diagnostic options and biofilm‐based wound care strategies to eradicate biofilms. Clinical scenarios for cases in which biofilms developed and were successfully treated will be presented. This review will advance practitioners' understanding of the presence and role of biofilms in equine wounds and provide an updated summary of recommended treatment strategies.
Electronic music composition thinking using visual learning and visual sensing technology
Authors: Pi Jian
Published: November 2023

This exploration aims to provide a kind of interactive electronic music composition thinking based on visual learning and visual sensing technology to enhance the thinking process of electronic music composition. Initially, it summarizes the functionalities of the physics components in Unity and analyzes the principles of visual interaction implementation using Virtual Reality (VR) devices and Leap Motion in Unity. Subsequently, the composition of interactive electronic music works is designed and implemented based on ultrasonic sensor technology. Lastly, this exploration focuses on the complete visual design of the audio‐visual integration of Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) music to represent Cymatics' images of the emotional content of the music. MIDI data can be assigned to provide various mapping possibilities between images and content in music visualization composition. This exploration also designs experiments based on sensory aftereffects and audio‐visual synesthesia to further determine the counterpoint law between the shape of dynamic Cymatics' images and the timbre's audio‐visual synesthetic results. The results indicate that Bass and Kick are distributed in the mid‐low frequency and sub‐low frequency range (20–160 Hz), Vocal and Lead are distributed in the mid‐high frequency range (1280–2560 Hz), and Hihat is distributed in the high‐frequency range (2560–5120 Hz). This exploration utilizes computer technology to create a music visualization method that conforms to the visual expression and aesthetic style of a multi‐sensory experience.
Genetic mechanisms of multiciliated cell development: from fate choice to differentiation in zebrafish and other models
Authors: Wesselman Hannah M. , Arceri Liana , Nguyen Thanh Khoa , Lara Caroline M. , Wingert Rebecca A.
Published: November 2023

Multiciliated cells (MCCS) form bundles of cilia and their activities are essential for the proper development and physiology of many organ systems. Not surprisingly, defects in MCCs have profound consequences and are associated with numerous disease states. Here, we discuss the current understanding of MCC formation, with a special focus on the genetic and molecular mechanisms of MCC fate choice and differentiation. Furthermore, we cast a spotlight on the use of zebrafish to study MCC ontogeny and several recent advances made in understanding MCCs using this vertebrate model to delineate mechanisms of MCC emergence in the developing kidney.
Trait dimensions of abiotic stress tolerance in woody plants of the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Pavanetto Nicola , Carmona Carlos P. , Laanisto Lauri , Niinemets Ülo , Puglielli Giacomo
Published: November 2023

Aim

Trade‐offs among tolerances to different abiotic stressors limit polytolerance in woody plants. However, the general trait syndromes that underlie large‐scale tolerance patterns of woody plants remain controversial. Here, we tested if the leading trait dimensions that define the global spectrum of plant form and function capture the underlying trait trade‐offs limiting woody plant polytolerance.

Location

Northern Hemisphere.

Time Period

Present.

Major Taxa Studied

Woody plants.

Methods

We used a dataset of 779 species to link the trait dimensions defining the global spectrum of plant form and function with two dimensions summarizing tolerance syndromes to drought, shade, cold and waterlogging. Stress tolerance dimensions were a trade‐off between drought and cold/waterlogging tolerance strategies, and a shade tolerance spectrum. Relationships among trait and stress tolerance dimensions were evaluated using general additive models separately for deciduous and evergreen angiosperms, and evergreen gymnosperms.

Results

Drought‐tolerant angiosperms showed greater specific stem density (SSD) and seed mass (SM), and lower specific leaf area (SLA) and leaf nitrogen content per mass (LN), compared to the cold/waterlogging‐tolerant species. Shade‐tolerant angiosperms displayed greater SSD and SM and lower SLA and LN compared to intolerant angiosperms. Highly contrasting trait adaptations also distinguished drought‐ (greater SSD, SM and lower SLA, LN) from shade‐tolerant evergreen gymnosperms.

Main Conclusions

The ‘SSD–SM’ and the ‘SLA–LN’ dimensions mainly distinguish cold or drought‐tolerant woody angiosperms and shade‐ or drought‐tolerant gymnosperms. Our results also support a conservative trait strategy for shade‐tolerant compared to shade‐intolerant species, with some differences between plant functional types probably due to contrasting leaf lifespans. Overall, our findings identify some leading functional constraints on polytolerance in woody plants and provide a framework to integrate additional trait dimensions to fully elucidate such constraints.
Event ethnography: Studying power and politics through events
Authors: Koch Natalie
Published: November 2023

Event ethnography is a methodological tool that involves ethnographic research on or at events. “Events” are activities, gatherings, and collective experiences that are limited in time and are highly diverse in their scope, organization, and thematic organization. Because of their temporary nature, events serve as unique venues for the convergence of actors who are usually spatially, temporally, and socially dispersed. Ethnographic research at events thus offers scholars a useful window onto how power relations are formed through the concentrated interaction among individuals, ideas, affects, and infrastructures. This article defines “event ethnography” and surveys the existing literature that examines events through ethnographic research. It suggests that taking events seriously for fieldwork has the potential to open up new questions for political geographers and other scholars interested in power and politics.
Rethinking the dynamic of global production networks: Integrate the influence of suppliers and towards a flexible strategy making causal mechanism
Authors: Zheng Zhi
Published: November 2023

The global production network (GPN) 2.0 framework mainly considers the organizational capabilities of lead firms, neglecting the influence of supplier capabilities on the strategic making of lead firms. I argue that the GPN 2.0 framework must integrate the influence of supplier capabilities (both industrial and individual firm levels) to better explain the organization of the global economy. Industrial‐level capability determines the possible strategic choices that firms may make under certain dynamic combinations, whereas the individual firm level determines the geographic extension direction of GPNs. Therefore, this study incorporates the influence of suppliers and builds a more flexible strategy‐making causal mechanism other than the definitive and limiting causal mechanism in GPN 2.0. I hope this article can promote the further development of GPN 2.0 and convey some valuable concepts to make it perform better in deconstructing the organization of the global economy in the real world.
Spatial transcriptomics and the anatomical pathologist: Molecular meets morphology
Authors: Pang Jia‐Min B , Byrne David J , Bergin Alice R T , Caramia Franco , Loi Sherene , Gorringe Kylie L , Fox Stephen B
Published: November 2023

In recent years anatomical pathology has been revolutionised by the incorporation of molecular findings into routine diagnostic practice, and in some diseases the presence of specific molecular alterations are now essential for diagnosis. Spatial transcriptomics describes a group of technologies that provide up to transcriptome‐wide expression profiling while preserving the spatial origin of the data, with many of these technologies able to provide these data using a single tissue section. Spatial transcriptomics allows expression profiling of highly specific areas within a tissue section potentially to subcellular resolution, and allows correlation of expression data with morphology, tissue type and location relative to other structures. While largely still research laboratory‐based, several spatial transcriptomics methods have now achieved compatibility with formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue (FFPE), allowing their use in diagnostic tissue samples, and with further development potentially leading to their incorporation in routine anatomical pathology practice. This mini review provides an overview of spatial transcriptomics methods, with an emphasis on platforms compatible with FFPE tissue, approaches to assess the data and potential applications in anatomical pathology practice.
Model‐based assessment of marine bird population status using monitoring of breeding productivity and abundance
Authors: Frederiksen Morten , Anker‐Nilssen Tycho , Schekkerman Hans , Dierschke Volker , Parsons Matt , Marra Stefano , Mitchell Ian
Published: November 2023

Vertebrate populations are often monitored as part of broader assessments of ecosystem status, where they are expected to provide information on the ability of the ecosystem to support higher‐level predators. However, because many vertebrates are long‐lived and often only subsets of their populations can be monitored, abundance may not be sufficiently responsive to ecosystem status to provide early warnings of impending changes. Marine birds are often used as indicators of ecosystem status but, due to their long lifespan and delayed recruitment to the breeding population, changes in abundance are generally slow and often difficult to interpret. Their breeding productivity is, however, also widely monitored and much more responsive to ecosystem status, but the relevance of variation in productivity may be difficult to assess. We propose a model‐based indicator that integrates monitoring of abundance and breeding productivity through demographic matrix models. The metric of the proposed indicator is the expected population growth rate, given the observed level of breeding productivity. This expected growth rate is then compared with a threshold derived from the criteria employed for red‐listing of threatened species by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. We demonstrate the suggested approach using data from Black‐legged Kittiwakes Rissa tridactyla in the Greater North Sea region, Northwest Europe. The proposed indicator shows that the current level of breeding productivity is expected to lead to a population decline of 3–4% per year, which is equivalent to a red‐list status as Endangered for the species in this region. Our indicator approach is used in OSPAR's Quality Status Report 2023 and is expected to be used by European Union member states for reporting under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive in 2024. Our approach represents a major step forward in assessing the status of marine bird populations; the ideal next step would be to develop a coherent Integrated Population Modelling (IPM) framework that would allow inclusion of all data on population abundance and demography collected across the large and diverse marine ecosystems involved.
Probabilistic reaction norm reveals family‐related variation in the association between size, condition, and sexual maturation onset in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Brown Morgan S. , Carvalheiro Roberto , Taylor Richard S. , Mekkawy Wagdy , Luke Timothy D. W. , Rands Lewis , Nieuwesteeg Damien , Evans Brad S. , Wade Nicholas M. , Lind Curtis E. , Hilder Pollyanna E.
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the relationship between the size, condition, year class, family, and sexual maturity of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) using data collected in an aquaculture selective breeding programme. Males that were sexually mature at 2 years of age (maiden spawn) have, on average, greater fork length and condition factor (K) at 1 year of age than their immature counterparts. For every 10‐mm increase in fork length or 0.1 increase in K at 1 year of age, the odds of sexual maturity at 2 years of age increased by 1.48 or 1.22 times, respectively. Females that were sexually mature at 3 years of age (maiden spawn) have, on average, greater fork length and K at 2 years of age than their immature counterparts. For every 10‐mm increase in fork length or 0.1 increase in K at 2 years of age, the odds of sexual maturity at 3 years of age increased by 1.06 or 1.44 times, respectively. The family explained 34.93% of the variation in sexual maturity among 2‐year‐old males that was not attributable to the average effects of fork length and K at 1 year of age and year class. The proportion of variation in sexual maturity among 3‐year‐old females explained by the family could not be investigated. These findings suggest that the onset of sexual maturation in Atlantic salmon is conditional on performance (with respect to energy availability) surpassing a threshold, the magnitude of which can vary between families and is determined by a genetic component. This could support the application of genetic selection to promote or inhibit the onset of sexual maturation in farmed stocks.
From the disruption of RNA metabolism to the targeting of RNA‐binding proteins: The case of polyglutamine spinocerebellar ataxias
Authors: Moreira‐Gomes Tiago , Nóbrega Clévio
Published: November 2023

Polyglutamine spinocerebellar ataxias (PolyQ SCAs) represent a group of monogenetic diseases in which the expanded polyglutamine repeats give rise to a mutated protein. The abnormally expanded polyglutamine protein produces aggregates and toxic species, causing neuronal dysfunction and neuronal death. The main symptoms of these disorders include progressive ataxia, motor dysfunction, oculomotor impairment, and swallowing problems. Nowadays, the current treatments are restricted to symptomatic alleviation, and no existing therapeutic strategies can reduce or stop the disease progression. Even though the origin of these disorders has been associated with polyglutamine‐induced toxicity, RNA toxicity has recently gained relevance in polyQ SCAs molecular pathogenesis. Therefore, the research's focus on RNA metabolism has been increasing, especially on RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs). The present review summarizes RNA metabolism, exposing the different processes and the main RBPs involved. We also explore the mechanisms by which RBPs are dysregulated in PolyQ SCAs. Finally, possible therapies targeting the RNA metabolism are presented as strategies to reverse neuropathological anomalies and mitigate physical symptoms.

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Treating the double chin with hyaluronic acid injection
Authors: Peng Jui‐Hui , Peng Hsien‐Li Peter
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Submental fullness (SMF), or the double chin, is a condition regarded as undesirable. Many treatment modalities are available for SMF reduction, such as energy‐based devices, injection lipolysis, or surgery. However, of minimal invasive modalities, hyaluronic acid (HA) injection has not been explored for possible SMF treatment.

Case report

A 52‐year‐old East Asian female patient with prominent SMF underwent HA filler injection. Aside from marked reduction of SMF prominence, an improvement of sagging over her cheeks and jawline, and a general improvement to facial aging signs was noted.

Conclusion

HA filler injections for SMF offer an instant, zero downtime, and safe alternative, and can be considered in patients who wish to simultaneously achieve improvement in other facial areas.
Liver damage parameters and peripheral blood parameters for prediction and diagnosis of intrahepatic cholestasis in pregnancy
Authors: Obut Mehmet , Kından Aykut , Ibanoğlu Müjde Can , Çayönü Kahraman Neval , Arat Özgür , Keleş Ayşe , Topkara Serap , Tokgöz Çakır Betül , Bucak Mevlüt , İskender Can Tekin
Published: November 2023

Objective

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) manifests in late pregnancy. Elevated serum bile acid is a diagnostic criterion: however, its measurement is troublesome. Prediction of ICP by blood markers is not established. Serum bile acid level is associated with liver damage and inflammation. We hypothesized that the following markers could predict the occurrence of ICP and have diagnostic value for it: Liver damage‐indicating scores (albumin–bilirubin [ALBI], Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease [MELD], aspartate aminotransferase‐to‐platelet ratio [APRI]) and inflammatory markers (platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio [PLR] and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio [NLR]).

Methods

Eighty ICP patients and 200 controls were studied. The values of MELD, APRI, ALBI, PLR, and NLR were measured in the 1st trimester and at the time of diagnosis.

Results

Patients with ICP had significantly higher ALBI, MELD, and APRI scores both in the first trimester and at diagnosis. Multivariate logistic regression (MLR) showed that age, ALBI, MELD, and APRI scores were statistically significant (p < 0.05). By receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the sensitivity of MELD, ALBI, APRI, and NLR in the first trimester was 62%, 73%, 58%, and 29%, respectively, and MELD, ALBI, APRI, and PLR at diagnosis was 28%, 38%, 57%, and 8%, respectively, with a fixed false‐positive rate of 10%.

Conclusion

This study has demonstrated the usability of the MELD, ALBI, and APRI scores in predicting and diagnosing ICP. They are easy to obtain and might be used in routine practice.
Lower risks of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma with GLP‐1RAs in type 2 diabetes: A nationwide cohort study using target trial emulation framework
Authors: Yang Chun‐Ting , Yao Wen‐Yu , Yang Chen‐Yi , Peng Zi‐Yang , Ou Huang‐Tz , Kuo Shihchen
Published: November 2023

Background

To assess the association of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with the use of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) versus long‐acting insulins (LAIs), which are the two commonly prescribed injectable glucose‐lowering agents (GLAs) for patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) after the failure of multiple oral GLAs.

Methods

We emulated a target trial using the nationwide data of a Taiwanese cohort with T2D. Incident new users of GLP‐1RAs and LAIs during 2013–2018 were identified, and propensity score (PS) matching was applied to ensure between‐group comparability in baseline patient characteristics. The primary outcome was the composite liver disease including cirrhosis or HCC. Each patient was followed until the occurrence of a study outcome, death, or the end of 2019, whichever came first. Subdistribution hazard models were employed to assess the treatment‐outcome association. Sensitivity (e.g., stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis, time‐dependent analysis), E‐value, and negative control outcome analyses were performed to examine the robustness of study findings.

Results

We included 7171 PS‐matched pairs of GLP‐1RA and LAI users with no significant between‐group differences at baseline. Compared with LAIs, the use of GLP‐1RAs was associated with significantly reduced risks of composite liver disease (subdistribution hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 0.56 [0.42–0.76]), cirrhosis (0.59 [0.43–0.81]), and HCC (0.47 [0.24–0.93]). Results were consistent across sensitivity analyses and among patients with different baseline characteristics.

Conclusion

Among T2D patients who require injectable GLAs, the use of GLP‐1RAs versus LAIs was associated with lower risks of cirrhosis and HCC.
Pathogenicity‐related long non‐coding natural antisense transcripts in Verticillium dahliae during infections in cotton
Authors: Li Ran , Xue Huishan , Ma Xiyue , Zhu He , Li Yue , Dai Xiaofeng , Chen Jie‐yin
Published: November 2023

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are non‐coding RNAs with a length of more than 200 nucleotides. LncRNAs are functional factors involved in various biological processes at the transcriptional, post‐transcriptional and epigenetic regulation, which have been widely studied in animals and plants, but less in fungi. In our previous research, 352 Verticillium dahliae lncRNAs were identified by high‐throughput sequencing, and pathogenicity‐related lncRNAs were determined by their differential expression during infections on host plants of cotton. It is known that a long non‐coding natural antisense transcript (lncNAT) transcribed from the antisense strand of a gene, mainly plays cis‐regulatory functions. Thus, in this study, V. dahliae lncNATs and their function were further analysed based on our previous research of V. dahliae lncRNAs. In total, 116 of 352 lncRNAs were identified as lncNATs, and the function of their associated genes that are mainly enriched in transcriptional regulation was assessed. Moreover, 12 lncNATs were significantly differentially expressed during infection in cotton, and their associated genes are involved in its pathogenicity. In addition, the expression pattern between lncNAT010781 and lncNAT005061 and their associated genes were detected. Both lncNATs and their associated genes were up‐regulated during the inoculation of cotton. Overexpression of lncNAT005061 enhanced the virulence of Vd991 on cotton. In conclusion, these results suggest that V. dahliae lncNATs play a pathogenic role when cotton host plants are infected, which will provide new targets for analysing the virulence regulatory network in V. dahliae.
Borderline institution
Authors: Lazega Emmanuel
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces the concept of “borderline institution” to characterize an institution in which actors push upstream the boundary between the normal and the pathological and find downstream ways of systematically taking advantage of this push ex‐post. This happens for example when actors make decisions based on predictions; and are simultaneously allowed by vertical concentration to manage conflicts generated by the consequences of these decisions when these predictions fail. A theory of how to identify a borderline institution based on this vertical concentration uses bankruptcy proceedings at the Commercial Court of Paris as an example, relying on Karl Polanyi's concept of double movement and Margaret Archer's concept of double morphogenesis. In this court, bankers as lay judges can control both credit‐related predictions at the bank, and bankruptcy proceedings at the court. Enabling conditions for borderline institutional entrepreneurs as “vertical linchpins” in this multilevel context explain how they concentrate enough power to reach a position from which to drive such dynamics. The conclusion asks whether societies promote new borderline institutions to face contemporary and urgent existential challenges.
Renal amyloid‐A amyloidosis in cats: Characterization of proteinuria and biomarker discovery, and associations with kidney histology
Authors: Palizzotto Carlo , Ferri Filippo , Callegari Carolina , Rossi Francesco , Manfredi Marcello , Carcangiu Laura , Gerardi Gabriele , Ferro Silvia , Cavicchioli Laura , Müller Elizabeth , Weiss Marco , Vogt Anne‐Catherine , Lavatelli Francesca , Ricagno Stefano , Hurley Karyl , Zini Eric
Published: November 2023

Background

Amyloid A (AA) amyloidosis is a protein misfolding disease arising from serum amyloid A (SAA). Systemic AA amyloidosis recently was shown to have a high prevalence in shelter cats in Italy and was associated with azotemia and proteinuria.

Objectives

Investigate urine protein profiles and diagnostic biomarkers in cats with renal AA amyloidosis.

Animals

Twenty‐nine shelter cats.

Methods

Case‐control study. Cats with renal proteinuria that died or were euthanized between 2018 and 2021 with available necropsy kidney, liver and spleen samples, and with surplus urine collected within 30 days before death, were included. Histology was used to characterize renal damage and amyloid amount and distribution; immunohistochemistry was used to confirm AA amyloidosis. Urine protein‐to‐creatinine (UPC) and urine amyloid A‐to‐creatinine (UAAC) ratios were calculated, and sodium dodecyl sulfate‐agarose gel electrophoresis (SDS‐AGE) and liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) of proteins were performed.

Results

Twenty‐nine cats were included. Nineteen had AA amyloidosis with renal involvement. Cats with AA amyloidosis had a higher UPC (median, 3.9; range, 0.6‐12.7 vs 1.5; 0.6‐3.1; P = .03) and UAAC ratios (median, 7.18 × 10−3; range, 23 × 10−3‐21.29 × 10−3 vs 1.26 × 10−3; 0.21 × 10−3‐6.33 × 10−3; P = .04) than unaffected cats. The SDS‐AGE identified mixed‐type proteinuria in 89.4% of cats with AA amyloidosis and in 55.6% without AA amyloidosis (P = .57). The LC‐MS identified 63 potential biomarkers associated with AA amyloidosis (P < .05). Among these, urine apolipoprotein C‐III was higher in cats with AA amyloidosis (median, 1.38 × 107; range, 1.85 × 105‐5.29 × 107 vs 1.76 × 106; 0.0 × 100‐1.38 × 107; P = .01). In the kidney, AA‐amyloidosis was associated with glomerulosclerosis (P = .02) and interstitial fibrosis (P = .05).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Renal AA amyloidosis is associated with kidney lesions, increased proteinuria and increased urine excretion of SAA in shelter cats. Additional studies are needed to characterize the role of lipid transport proteins in the urine of affected cats.
Natural history and impact of irritable bowel syndrome‐type symptoms in inflammatory bowel disease during 12 months of longitudinal follow‐up
Authors: Barberio Brigida , Fairbrass Keeley M. , Gracie David J. , Ford Alexander C.
Published: November 2023

Background

Little is known about the natural history and impact of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)‐type symptoms on psychological health and quality of life in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We aimed to address this in a 12‐month longitudinal follow‐up study of secondary care patients.

Methods

We collected demographic, Rome III IBS‐type symptom, psychological, and quality of life data, with questionnaires at 3‐month intervals, over 12 months of follow‐up in patients with IBD in clinical remission at baseline. We assessed the natural history of Rome III IBS‐type symptoms over the 12 months of the study and compared psychological and quality of life data between those reporting Rome III IBS‐type symptoms at each of the points of follow‐up with those not reporting such symptoms.

Key Results

Among 206 patients with IBD in clinical remission at baseline (104 [50.5%] women, mean age 56.9 years [range 18–83 years], 79 [38.3%] Crohn's disease), 33 (16.0%) reported Rome III IBS‐type symptoms at baseline and 72 (35.0%) reported Rome III IBS‐type symptoms at one or more time points. Among the 33 patients with Rome III IBS‐type symptoms at baseline, symptoms resolved in 6 (18.2%) patients, were present throughout in 6 (18.2%) patients, and fluctuated in the remaining 21 (63.6%) patients. Among the 39 patients with new onset of Rome III IBS‐type symptoms after baseline, 24 (65.1%) had symptoms at one point in time only, 10 (25.6%) at two points, four (10.3%) at three points, and one (2.6%) at four points. At each point in time, reporting IBS‐type symptoms was associated with significantly higher anxiety, depression, or somatoform symptom‐reporting scores, and/or lower quality of life scores.

Conclusions & Inferences

In this 12‐month follow‐up study, one‐third of patients with IBD reported presence of Rome III IBS‐type symptoms at any point in time. Reporting such symptoms was associated with significant impacts on psychological health and/or quality of life.
Chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction in adults: A practical guide to identify patient subgroups that are suitable for more specific treatments
Authors: Basilisco Guido , Marchi Margherita , Coletta Marina
Published: November 2023

Chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction is a rare and heterogeneous syndrome characterized by recurrent symptoms of intestinal obstruction with radiological features of dilated small or large intestine with air/fluid levels in the absence of any mechanical occlusive lesion. Several diseases may be associated with chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction and in these cases, the prognosis and treatment are related to the underlying disease. Also, in its “primary or idiopathic” form, two subgroups of patients should be determined as they require a more specific therapeutic approach: patients whose chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction is due to sporadic autoimmune/inflammatory mechanisms and patients whose neuromuscular changes are genetically determined. In a context of a widely heterogeneous adult population presenting chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction, this review aims to summarize a practical diagnostic workup for identifying definite subgroups of patients who might benefit from more specific treatments, based on the etiology of their underlying condition.
Overcoming germination constraints in seven grass species for seed‐based restoration in the Australian monsoonal tropics
Authors: Barberis Davide , Turner Shane , Pedrini Simone
Published: November 2023

The increasing reliance on native seeds for ecological restoration requires the understanding of seed traits across each species, and the testing of novel processing approaches to optimize germination outcomes. Knowledge regarding Australian native seeds is critical due to the high proportion of species manifesting some degree of seed dormancy. The evaluation of approaches to overcome dormancy and identify optimal conditions for promoting germination in native species has significant applications in the restoration of degraded ecosystems. Grasses are an important component of ecosystems in the Australian monsoonal tropics, a bioregion which covers much of northern Australia, yet they are often forgotten or poorly represented when used in restoration. We investigated the effect of seed processing technique and smoke‐based stimulants on the germination of seven species from the Kimberley region, testing three different hypotheses: (1) florets germinate less than extracted caryopses; (2) acid digestion treatments with different exposure times can enhance germination; and (3) smoke‐based treatments can increase both germination and germination speed. Floret removal was generally helpful in improving germination, whereas the response to acid and smoke‐based treatments was varied. Brief acid exposure produced no to low germination improvements, whereas longer acid treatments showed contrasting results, with some species showing significant germination increase and others showing a severe reduction in germination rate. The only species showing a clear positive germination effect of smoke‐based treatments was Triodia bynoei. These results are helpful for restoration practitioners to improve their potential use in current and future restoration programs in the Australian monsoonal tropics.
The impact of multifactorial stress combination on plants, crops, and ecosystems: how should we prepare for what comes next?
Authors: Zandalinas Sara I. , Peláez‐Vico María Ángeles , Sinha Ranjita , Pascual Lidia S. , Mittler Ron
Published: November 2023

The complexity of environmental conditions encountered by plants in the field, or in nature, is gradually increasing due to anthropogenic activities that promote global warming, climate change, and increased levels of pollutants. While in the past it seemed sufficient to study how plants acclimate to one or even two different stresses affecting them simultaneously, the complex conditions developing on our planet necessitate a new approach of studying stress in plants: Acclimation to multiple stress conditions occurring concurrently or consecutively (termed, multifactorial stress combination [MFSC]). In an initial study of the plant response to MFSC, conducted with Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings subjected to an MFSC of six different abiotic stresses, it was found that with the increase in the number and complexity of different stresses simultaneously impacting a plant, plant growth and survival declined, even if the effects of each stress involved in such MFSC on the plant was minimal or insignificant. In three recent studies, conducted with different crop plants, MFSC was found to have similar effects on a commercial rice cultivar, a maize hybrid, tomato, and soybean, causing significant reductions in growth, biomass, physiological parameters, and/or yield traits. As the environmental conditions on our planet are gradually worsening, as well as becoming more complex, addressing MFSC and its effects on agriculture and ecosystems worldwide becomes a high priority. In this review, we address the effects of MFSC on plants, crops, agriculture, and different ecosystems worldwide, and highlight potential avenues to enhance the resilience of crops to MFSC.
The different approaches to chemical phosphorus removal across the UK wastewater industry
Authors: Hernandez‐Ramirez O. , Thompson A.
Published: November 2023

Water companies in the United Kingdom are currently facing unprecedented tightening of phosphorus discharge consents, which will only become stricter in the near future. Historically, the most widely applied method of phosphorus removal has been chemical precipitation through the addition of iron or aluminium salts. Although more sustainable options, such as biological processes, are already being implemented at key sites, data shows that chemical removal is likely to remain an integral part of wastewater treatment—whether as the main method in small or problematic works or as a trim for meeting consents below 1 mg/L, not achievable through biological removal alone. All sewage treatment providers in the United Kingdom have developed asset standards (internal design and operation guidelines) for the design and management of chemical precipitation at existing works. However, the approach has not been consistent throughout the sector, with wide variations of criteria, brackets and rules of thumb. This paper collates and compares these approaches, looking at asset standards from most of the water companies in the United Kingdom. The methods stated in these standards have been applied for the sizing of chemical phosphorus removal on four simulated sites, to meet theoretical consents based upon the future discharge requirements set by the Environment Agency under the Water Industry National Environment Programme.