bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of starch content of calf starter on feed intake, growth performance, and fecal properties in dairy calves under a high plane of milk replacer feeding
Authors: Satoh Hitomi , Fukumori Rika , Osada Takehiko , Shimada Kensuke , Oikawa Shin , Izumi Kenichi
Published: December 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of different starch contents in calf starter on the growth, feed intake, and fecal characteristics in dairy calves fed under a high plane of nutrition. Twenty‐seven Holstein calves were assigned equally to one of three calf starter treatment groups in a randomized block design: high (H) starch (41.8%); medium (M) starch (31.9%); and low (L) starch (22.0%). Milk replacer was fed up to 1.2 kg/day as fed, gradually reduced from 6 weeks of age; calves were weaned at 8 weeks of age. Each starter (up to 3.5 kg/day as fed) and chopped hay were provided ad libitum from 5 days of age. Fecal samples, along with body measurements, were collected from 4 to 13 weeks of age. The average daily gain after weaning was greater in the H group than in the L group. The average starter intake for 3 days before weaning was not different among treatments but was greater after weaning in the H group than in the L group. Starter starch content did not affect the number of days with diarrhea or fecal starch concentration. The high‐starch starter had no adverse effects during the weaning transition.
Predicting treatment response using machine learning: A registered report
Authors: Jankowsky Kristin , Krakau Lina , Schroeders Ulrich , Zwerenz Rüdiger , Beutel Manfred E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

Previous research on psychotherapy treatment response has mainly focused on outpatients or clinical trial data which may have low ecological validity regarding naturalistic inpatient samples. To reduce treatment failures by proactively screening for patients at risk of low treatment response, gain more knowledge about risk factors and to evaluate treatments, accurate insights about predictors of treatment response in naturalistic inpatient samples are needed.

Methods

We compared the performance of different machine learning algorithms in predicting treatment response, operationalized as a substantial reduction in symptom severity as expressed in the Patient Health Questionnaire Anxiety and Depression Scale. To achieve this goal, we used different sets of variables—(a) demographics, (b) physical indicators, (c) psychological indicators and (d) treatment‐related variables—in a naturalistic inpatient sample (N = 723) to specify their joint and unique contribution to treatment success.

Results

There was a strong link between symptom severity at baseline and post‐treatment (R2 = .32). When using all available variables, both machine learning algorithms outperformed the linear regressions and led to an increment in predictive performance of R2 = .12. Treatment‐related variables were the most predictive, followed psychological indicators. Physical indicators and demographics were negligible.

Conclusions

Treatment response in naturalistic inpatient settings can be predicted to a considerable degree by using baseline indicators. Regularization via machine learning algorithms leads to higher predictive performances as opposed to including nonlinear and interaction effects. Heterogenous aspects of mental health have incremental predictive value and should be considered as prognostic markers when modelling treatment processes.
T‐cell redirection therapy after allogeneic stem cell transplantation in multiple myeloma: When the cure fails!
Authors: Richter Joshua
Published: December 2023

Allogeneic stem cell transplant remains an option for patients with myeloma. Given the unfortunate inevitability of the majority of patients, relapsing salvage therapy options are needed. Although there is a potential concern for subsequent T‐cell redirection therapy in these patients, Hammons et al. provide a retrospective look at patients treated this way with no new significant adverse safety or efficacy signal.

Commentary on: Hammons et al. Chimeric antigen receptor and bispecific T‐cell engager therapies in multiple myeloma patients with prior allogeneic transplantation. Br J Haematol 2024;204:887‐891.
A novel role for microtubule affinity‐regulating kinases in neuropathic pain
Authors: Shi Yao‐Qin , Sun Zhi‐Hong , Wang Zhe‐Zhe , Su Chun‐Yu , Zhang Wei , Yu Lin‐Yao , Xu Yang , Gao Yong‐Lin , Wang Hong‐Bo , Tian Jing‐Wei , Li Chun‐Mei
Published: December 2023

Background and Purpose

Neuropathic pain affects millions of patients, but there are currently few viable therapeutic options available. Microtubule affinity‐regulating kinases (MARKs) regulate the dynamics of microtubules and participate in synaptic remodelling. It is unclear whether these changes are involved in the central sensitization of neuropathic pain. This study examined the role of MARK1 or MARK2 in regulating neurosynaptic plasticity induced by neuropathic pain.

Experimental Approach

A rat spinal nerve ligation (SNL) model was established to induce neuropathic pain. The role of MARKs in nociceptive regulation was assessed by genetically knocking down MARK1 or MARK2 in amygdala and systemic administration of PCC0105003, a novel small molecule MARK inhibitor. Cognitive function, anxiety‐like behaviours and motor coordination capability were also examined in SNL rats. Synaptic remodelling‐associated signalling changes were detected with electrophysiological recording, Golgi‐Cox staining, western blotting and qRT‐PCR.

Key Results

MARK1 and MARK2 expression levels in amygdala and spinal dorsal horn were elevated in SNL rats. MARK1 or MARK2 knockdown in amygdala and PCC0105003 treatment partially attenuated pain‐like behaviours along with improving cognitive deficit, anxiogenic‐like behaviours and motor coordination in SNL rats. Inhibition of MARKs signalling reversed synaptic plasticity at the functional and structural levels by suppressing NR2B/GluR1 and EB3/Drebrin signalling pathways both in amygdala and spinal dorsal horn.

Conclusion and Implications

These results suggest that MARKs‐mediated synaptic remodelling plays a key role in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain and that pharmacological inhibitors of MARKs such as PCC0105003 could represent a novel therapeutic strategy for the management of neuropathic pain.
Synthetic derivatives of natural cinnamic acids as potential anti‐colorectal cancer agents
Authors: Falbo Federica , Gemma Sandra , Koch Adrian , Mazzotta Sarah , Carullo Gabriele , Ramunno Anna , Butini Stefania , Schneider‐Stock Regine , Campiani Giuseppe , Aiello Francesca
Published: December 2023

Cinnamic acid and its derivatives represent attractive building blocks for the development of pharmacological tools. A series of piperoniloyl and cinnamoyl‐based amides (6‐9 a‐f) have been synthesized and assayed against a wide panel of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells, with the aim of finding promising anticancer agents. Among all twenty‐four synthesized molecules, 7a, 7e‐f, 9c, and 9f displayed the best antiproliferative activity. The induced G1 cell cycle arrest and the increase in apoptotic cell death was seen in FACS analysis and western Blotting in the colon tumor cell lines HCT116, SW480, LoVo, and HT29, but not in the nontumor cell line HCEC. In particular, 9f overcame the resistance of HT29 cells, which have a mutant p53 and BRAF. Furthermore, 9f, amide of piperonilic acid with the 3,4‐dichlorobenzyl substituent upregulated p21, which is involved in cell cycle arrest as well as in apoptosis induction. Cinnamic acid derivatives might be potential anticancer compounds, useful for the development of promising anti‐CRC agents.
The influence of guide stabilizers and their application sequences on trueness and precision of surgical guides in free end situations: An in vitro analysis
Authors: Liu Runheng , Xia Ruidi , Zhang Linjun , Gan Xuejing , Li Cuijun , Liu Quan , Chen Zhuofan , Chen Zetao
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of guide stabilizers and their application sequences on implant placement accuracy of guided implant surgery in multiple teeth loss at free end.

Materials and Methods

In this study, 96 implants were placed in the regions of #34, #36, and #37 of 32 identical mandibular models. The influence of using guide stabilizers or not (group A and group B) and various guide stabilizers application sequences (group B: #34 → #36 → #37; group C: #36 → #34 → #37; group D: #37 → #34 → #36) on implant placement trueness and precision was investigated. Data were analyzed using T‐tests and one‐way ANOVA.

Results

Group B showed significant benefits in enhancing implant placement precision. Compared to group A, it resulted in reducing 3D‐deviation at crest and 2D deviation in vestibular‐oral direction at both crest and apex. Furthermore, group D demonstrated greater improvement in global implant placement precision by reducing 2D deviation in mesial‐distal direction at both crest and apex. Among the three different stabilizer application sequences, group D exhibited the highest level of implant placement precision.

Conclusions

In cases of missing teeth at distal free end, the use of guide stabilizers and their application sequences does not have a significant impact on implant placement trueness. However, they do improve implant placement precision compared to methods that do not utilize guide stabilizers. Specifically, applying a guide stabilizer first at the furthest implant site to change teeth loss classification from free end to edentulous space with posterior support is the most reliable sequence.
Pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy of cedirogant from phase I studies in healthy participants and patients with chronic plaque psoriasis
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed‐Eslam F. , Qian Yuli , D'Cunha Ronilda , Sligh Teresa , Ferris Laura K. , Eldred Ann , Levy Gweneth F. , Hao Shuai , Gannu Shashikanth , Rizzo David G. , Liu Wei , Jazayeri Sasha , Sofen Howard , Carcereri De Prati Roberto
Published: December 2023

Cedirogant is an inverse agonist of retinoic acid‐related orphan receptor gamma thymus (RORγt) developed for the treatment of moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis. Here, we report the results from two phase I studies in which the pharmacokinetics (PK), safety, and efficacy of cedirogant in healthy participants and patients with moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis were evaluated. The studies consisted of single (20–750 mg) and multiple (75–375 mg once‐daily [q.d.]) ascending dose designs, with effect of food and itraconazole on cedirogant exposure also evaluated. Safety and PK were evaluated for both healthy participants and psoriasis patients, and efficacy was assessed in psoriasis patients. Following single and multiple doses, cedirogant mean terminal half‐life ranged from 16 to 28 h and median time to reach maximum plasma concentration ranged from 2 to 5 h across both populations. Cedirogant plasma exposures were dose‐proportional after single doses and less than dose‐proportional from 75 to 375 mg q.d. doses. Steady‐state concentrations were achieved within 12 days. Accumulation ratios ranged from approximately 1.2 to 1.8 across tested doses. Food had minimal effect and itraconazole had limited impact on cedirogant exposure. No discontinuations or serious adverse events due to cedirogant were recorded. Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and Self‐Assessment of Psoriasis Symptoms (SAPS) assessments demonstrated numerical improvement with treatment of cedirogant 375 mg q.d. compared with placebo. The PK, safety, and efficacy profiles of cedirogant supported advancing it to phase II clinical trial in psoriasis patients.
Future diabetes risk can be predicted by the number of abnormal oral glucose tolerance test values during pregnancy
Authors: Tsur Noa , Pollack Rena , Frankel Meir , Tsur Anat
Published: December 2023

Aim

To quantify the future risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in women with gestational diabetes (GD) based on baseline metabolic characteristics and the number of abnormal values during a 3‐hour 100‐g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

Materials and Methods

We conducted a population‐based retrospective cohort study of 10 023 pregnant women who underwent testing for GD in a large health maintenance organization in Israel using a 100‐g OGTT. Glucose values were obtained at four time points, 0, 60, 120 and 180 minutes.

Results

We identified 9939 women who met the study criteria. Median follow‐up was 3.25 (interquartile range 1.5‐5.1; maximum 10.1) years. Using women without GD as reference, women with GD were at an increased risk of future T2D (hazard ratio [HR] 5.33 [95% confidence interval {CI} 3.86‐7.34]). This risk increased with a greater number of abnormal OGTT values, with the highest risk seen in women with four abnormal values (HR 16.67 [95% CI 7.94‐35.01]). In a multivariate model, a higher number of abnormal values, Arab ethnicity, higher body mass index, triglycerides and prepregnancy glucose were significantly associated with increased risk. Future T2D risk was also affected by the type of OGTT abnormality; an abnormal fasting value had the greatest risk, whereas an abnormal 3‐hour value had the lowest risk (HR 3.61 [95% CI 2.42‐5.38] vs. 1.50 [95% CI 0.93‐2.43], respectively).

Conclusions

GD is a heterogenous disease, with varying degrees of glucose intolerance and subsequent T2D risk. Targeting interventions to women at the highest risk may help to improve postpartum adherence and effective long‐term follow‐up strategies.
Confusion from prenatal diagnosis: Type C persistent fifth aortic arch or right‐side ductus arteriosus
Authors: Li Tian‐gang , Zheng Jiao , Ma Bin
Published: December 2023

We described a case of a double aortic arch (DAA) with a subaortic left brachiocephalic vein (LBCV) and right‐side ductus arteriosus using high‐definition (HD) flow render mode and spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC). We experienced uncertainty regarding this interesting case despite the diagnosis of right‐sided ductus arteriosus. The ductus arteriosus originates from the right pulmonary artery (PA) and converges into the descending aorta (DAO), whereas the vessel originated from the PA and converged into the ascending aorta (AAO). Therefore, we assumed that the vessel connecting the PA to AAO may be a type‐C persistent fifth aortic arch (PFAA).
Weight function analyses and stress intensity factors for corner/surface crack in straight and tapered lugs
Authors: Zhang Bo , Xu Wu , Wu Xue‐Ren
Published: December 2023

Lug is one of the most important lap joints in many engineering structures, especially airframes. Through‐thickness and part‐through cracks emanating from pin‐loaded lug hole are frequently encountered due to stress concentration. Stress intensity factors for various crack geometries are the prerequisite for damage tolerance design of attachment lug. In this paper, analytical 2D weight functions for through‐thickness crack in lug are derived considering the contact condition between the pin and lug. With the derived 2D weight function, a highly efficient 3D slice synthesis weight function method (SSWFM) is then developed to determine 3D SIFs of hole‐edge corner/surface crack in straight and tapered lugs under various pin loadings. The resulting 3D SIFs are verified by comparisons with the numerical FEM/Franc3D solutions and literature data. The SSWFM is about 1800 times faster than the numerical FEM/Franc3D and therefore will significantly enhance damage tolerance analysis capability for attachment lugs.
Effect of confining pressure strength on the characteristics of energy evolution and fatigue fracture of the coal‐rock structural body
Authors: Li Tan , Yue Zihan , Li Jingkai , Chen Guangbo , Li Qinghai , Lu Yue
Published: December 2023

The stability of coal seam‐overlying strata is significant to the safety of coal mines. The coal‐rock height ratio and confining pressure strength affect the stability of coal seam‐overlying strata. The research purpose of this paper is to obtain the effects of confining pressure and coal‐rock height ratio on the mechanical properties, energy evolution characteristics, and damage variables of structural body through the uniaxial loading, uniaxial cyclic loading, and triaxial cyclic loading experiment. Based on the evolution characteristics of the energy, the concept of energy dissipation ratio is put forward, and the effect of height ratio and confining strength on the energy dissipation ratio are compared and analyzed. The research results of this paper can provide theoretical reference for exploring the stress and energy evolution of coal seam‐overlying strata during chamber excavation and working face mining.
‘VISIONEN VOM IDEALEN GESCHICHTE‐SCHREIBEN UND GESCHICHTE‐MACHENʼ: EPISTEMIC (IN)JUSTICE AND INSURRECTION IN SHARON DODUA OTOO'S HISTORICAL AND MEMORY ACTIVISM
Authors: Windsor Tara Talwar
Published: December 2023

This article explores Sharon Dodua Otoo's historical and memory activism and demonstrates how she challenges epistemic injustices inflicted by dominant models of cultural memory and identity in Germany, particularly in relation to its colonial history. Such epistemic injustice takes two main forms – the ongoing subjugation of subaltern (hi)stories and the under‐acknowledgement of grassroots diasporic activism – resulting in multiple levels of marginalisation and sustaining what the philosopher Charles Mills calls ‘the white epistemology of ignorance’. Building on Sarah Colvin's studies of epistemic resistance in Otoo's literary prose, I argue that Otoo's historical and memory activism is an example of what José Medina refers to as ‘epistemic insurrection’. Otoo's self‐consciously collaborative interventions in historical and memory politics facilitate the kind of ‘beneficial epistemic friction’ expounded by Medina, which is necessary to prevent dominant forces from co‐opting insurgent counter‐histories and counter‐memories. Otoo invokes a community of activist experts and poets, past and present, whose collective knowledge production offers alternative ways of thinking about history and opportunities to subvert the power dynamics of cultural memory. Her activism reaches across diverse genres, media and public domains, and engages multiperspectivity to contribute to more pluralistic modes of doing history and memory.
Gene therapy for haemophilia A and B, from basic principles to clinical implementation: An illustrated review
Authors: Ay Cihan , Frenzel Laurent , Pinachyan Karen , Le Quellec Sandra
Published: December 2023

Introduction

With recent approval of the first two gene therapies for haemophilia A and B, educational materials about AAV‐based gene therapy are needed by the haemophilia community for a better understanding of this novel therapeutic approach and helping healthcare providers and patients making personalized choices amongst an increasing array of therapeutic options.

Aim

To provide a comprehensive summary of the whole process of AAV‐based gene therapy from basic principles to clinical implementation through an illustrated review.

Methods

The authors, with expertise in and knowledge about gene therapy for haemophilia A and B, reviewed relevant articles from PubMed database and translated them into illustrations.

Results

The review is divided into eight illustrated sections providing an overview of gene therapy for haemophilia A and B from haemophilia basics and current treatment landscape, principles of the AAV‐based liver‐directed gene therapy, through exploring the efficacy and safety results of published phase III clinical trials, current and future challenges, to implementation in clinical practice, including the hub and spoke models and the patient journey.

Conclusion

This illustrated review educates healthcare professionals on AAV‐based gene therapy for haemophilia A and B enabling them to further educate their peers and their patients.
Electrochemical performance and degradation mechanism of rechargeable aqueous Al2O3@Zn//MnO2 battery
Authors: Lee Sihyun , So Younghee , Mhin Sungwook
Published: December 2023

Rechargeable aqueous Zn ion batteries (AZIBs) have attracted significant attention as a promising alternative to Li‐ion batteries due to the use of water‐based electrolytes, high energy density per volume, and cost‐effectiveness. However, various parasitic reactions relating to hydrogen evolution reaction, corrosion, and dendrite growth in the Zn anode can result in the degradation of the electrochemical performance of AZIBs. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms underlying these various phenomena and their role in the electrochemical performance of AZIBs provides valuable insights for the development of anode and cathode materials. In this study, we investigate the effect of the MnO2 cathode and Al2O3‐coated Zn anode on the electrochemical performance of the AZIBs. The experimental results show that Al2O3‐coated Zn anodes efficiently suppress the dendrite growth on the Zn. However, significant cycling fade of the full cell comprising of an Al2O3‐coated Zn anode and MnO2 cathode was observed during continuous charge/discharge cycles. The poor cycle performance can be mainly attributed to the phase transformation of MnO2–Mn2O3 and the formation of various byproducts, which highlights the importance of the electrochemical stability of cathode materials in AZIBs to improve the cycle performance.
Summary of the Clinical Practice Guidelines for Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma 2023 by the Japanese Urological Association
Authors: Mori Kazuyuki , Hatakeyama Shingo , Enokida Hideki , Miyake Hideaki , Kikuchi Eiji , Nishiyama Hiroyuki , Ichikawa Tomohiko , Kamai Takao , Kaji Yasushi , Kume Haruki , Kondo Tsunenori , Matsuyama Hideyasu , Masumori Naoya , Kawauchi Akihiro , Takenaka Atsushi , Uemura Hirotsugu , Eto Masatoshi , Nonomura Norio , Fujii Yasuhisa , Hinotsu Shiro , Ohyama Chikara
Published: December 2023

This article is an English translation of the Clinical Practice Guidelines for Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma (2nd edition) published in June 2023. The Japanese Urological Association's (JUA) Guidelines Committee on Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma (UTUC) created a 2023 update guideline to support clinicians' current evidence‐based management of UTUC and to incorporate its recommendations into clinical practice. The new guideline adhered as closely as possible to the Minds Manual for Guideline Development 2020 ver. 3.0. Findings related to epidemiological, pathological, diagnosis, treatment, and follow‐up were reviewed. In addition, seven clinical questions (CQs) were set to determine the grade of recommendation and level of evidence. Preconceptions and biases were removed from the preparation process, the overall evidence was evaluated appropriately, and recommendations were made after fully considering the balance between benefits and harms. Although the evidence is still insufficient to be taken up as a CQ, the latest important information is described in seven columns, and clinical issues that should be resolved in the future related to the CQ are described as recommendations for tomorrow. We hope that these guidelines will help medical professionals, patients, and their families involved in the treatment of UTUC in their decision‐making, and hope that a critical review of these guidelines will lead to further refinements in the next edition.
Fe3O4/C@SiC nanocomposite microwave absorbing material derived from MIL‐101(Fe)@SiC
Authors: Wei Mengjia , Wang Lei , Rehman Sajjad Ur , Zhang Wenmiao , Shen Shuqi , Peng Biyun , Hu Yifeng , Liang Tongxiang
Published: December 2023

The Fe3O4/C@SiC nanocomposites were synthesized by pyrolyzing MIL‐101(Fe)@SiC nanocomposites under Ar gas atmosphere. The magnetic Fe3O4 enhances the magnetic loss of the composite material, while the abundant defects and voids on the surface of MIL‐101(Fe)‐derived porous carbon form a network with SiC whiskers, extending the transmission path of electromagnetic waves. The synergistic effect of Fe3O4 and porous carbon optimizes the impedance matching of the material and improves its attenuation capability. As a result, the Fe3O4/C@SiC nanocomposite exhibits excellent microwave absorption performance. Fe3O4/C@SiC nanocomposites about minimal reflection loss (RLmin) of −80.11 dB at 5.93 GHz and an effective absorption bandwidth (RL −10 dB) of 3.57 GHz (4.33–7.90 GHz). The findings of this study shed light on the potential of SiC for microwave absorption applications.
Type 1 diabetes and the risk of epilepsy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Wu Shuhui , Ding Yanan
Published: December 2023

Aims/Introduction

An overrepresentation of epilepsy has been suggested in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). This meta‐analysis was conducted to evaluate if type 1 diabetes is associated with a higher incidence of epilepsy.

Materials and Methods

Longitudinal observational studies which are relevant to the purpose of the meta‐analysis were screened and obtained by searching PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Random‐effects models were used when significant heterogeneity was observed; otherwise, fixed‐effects models were used.

Results

Six observational studies involving 10 datasets of 8,001,899 participants were included, with six datasets including children and only one dataset including older people. Among them, 100,414 (1.25%) had type 1 diabetes. During the follow‐up duration of 5.4–15.2 years (mean: 9.5 years), 98,644 cases (1.23%) of epilepsy were observed. Compared with participants with normoglycemia, those with type 1 diabetes were shown to have a higher incidence of epilepsy (risk ratio [RR]: 2.41, 95% confidence interval 1.69–3.44, P < 0.001; I2 = 95%) after adjustment of potential confounding variables including age and sex. Subgroup analysis showed consistent results in nested case–control and retrospective cohort studies, and in studies of children, non‐elderly adult, and older participants (P for subgroup difference = 0.42 and 0.07). In addition, a stronger association of type 1 diabetes and epilepsy was suggested in studies with follow‐up duration <10 years compared with those ≥10 years (RR: 3.34 vs 1.61, P for subgroup difference < 0.001).

Conclusion

Patients with type 1 diabetes may have a higher risk of epilepsy, which was mainly driven by datasets including children.
Moisture dependent physical, mechanical, and aerodynamic properties of Simarouba glauca seed: A potential tree born oilseed
Authors: Satpathy S. K. , Naik S. N. , Jena Sujata
Published: December 2023

The present study investigates the moisture dependence of the physical, mechanical and aerodynamic properties of Simarouba seeds within the moisture range of 9.24‐22.46% d.b. The length, width and thickness significantly increased from 19.43 to 22.71 mm, 11.52 to 13.88 mm and 9.79 to 11.34 mm respectively. Our findings showed significant effect of moisture content on the one thousand unit mass, bulk density, true density, and porosity which varied in the range of 1050.41g and 1204.7g, 638.88 to 503.88 kg∙m−3, 999.57 to 970.26 kg∙m−3 and 36.08% to 48.06%. Moisture content was found to have positive effect on the angle of repose terminal velocity and static coefficient of friction for all surfaces studied. A decreasing trend in rupture force and increasing trend in deformation with moisture content was also observed. The understanding of these properties as per the present study would be useful for designing post‐harvest processing equipment and storage of Simarouba seeds.

Practical applications

Simarouba glauca, D.C. is an evergreen potential tree born oilseed tree with high scope for biodiesel and edible oil production. The oilseed is presently underutilized due to lack of availability of suitable processing equipment. The findings of the study provide a comprehensive design database related to engineering properties of Simarouba seeds. The predictive models developed in this study can be used to assess the seed properties at any given moisture content range. The enrichment of database would serve as a guide for agricultural engineers, and food processors in the design and development of relevant post‐harvest handling, and processing equipment for Simarouba seeds. This may further lead to promotion of Simarouba processing as a promising enterprise in rural India.
The tumoral microbiome of pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm: A single‐center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zou Long , Mo Shengwei , Jia Congwei , Pang Junyi , Chang Xiaoyan , Chen Jie
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim

Pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) is one of the most common precancerous lesions of pancreatic carcinoma. Studies have found that the tumoral microbiome has an important influence on pancreatic carcinoma. However, the tumoral microbiome of IPMNs has rarely been explored.

Methods

Tumoral microbiome gene sequencing was carried out using 16 specimens of IPMN and 45 specimens of IPMN with associated invasive carcinoma (IPMN‐IC) by 2bRAD sequencing for microbiome. The profile of the tumoral microbiome was summarized. Associations of the tumoral microbiome with disease grade, histological subtype, and prognosis were analyzed.

Results

A total of 598 species of microbes were identified, comprising 228 genera, 109 families, 60 orders, 29 classes, 14 phyla, and 2 kingdoms. The genus Pseudomonas was detected more frequently and had higher relative abundance in IPMN‐ICs; Alcaligenes faecalis was detected with higher relative abundance in IPMNs. Bifidobacterium pseudolongum had a higher relative abundance in the IPMN‐IC group, regardless of histological subtype. Moreover, among patients with IPMN‐ICs, those with a high relative abundance of B. pseudolongum had better overall survival than those with a low relative abundance. Patients who were positive for Staphylococcus aureus or Mycolicibacillus koreensis had shorter survival. The presence of S. aureus was an independent risk factor for poor prognosis.

Conclusions

There are enriching tumoral microbes in IPMN. The tumoral microbiome of IPMN is different from that of IPMN‐IC.
Assessing the rate of non‐linkage to care and identifying barriers in individuals living with hepatitis B. Results of the LINK‐B study
Authors: Feliu‐Prius Anna , Barreira‐Díaz Ana , Rando Ariadna , Vargas‐Accarino Elena , Palom Adriana , Vico‐Romero Judit , Ruiz‐Cobo Juan C. , Riveiro‐Barciela Mar , Rodriguez‐Frias Francisco , Esteban Rafael , Buti Maria
Published: December 2023

Background & Aims

Hepatitis B infection is the most frequent cause of chronic hepatitis and liver cancer worldwide. Active searching for individuals with chronic hepatitis B has been proposed as a strategy to achieve the elimination of this virus. The primary aim of this study was to link to specialists HBsAg‐positive individuals detected in a laboratory database and to characterize individuals who were not linked to care.

Methods

We performed a retrospective–prospective evaluation of all HBsAg‐positive serum samples identified in the central laboratory of the Northern Barcelona area between January 2018 and June 2022. After reviewing the patients' clinical charts, all those not linked to care were given an appointment with a specialist.

Results

Medical records of 2765 different HBsAg‐positive serum samples were reviewed and 2590 individuals were identified: 844 (32.6%) were not linked to a specialist, 653 were candidates for linkage, and 344 attended the specialist visit. The two main reasons why they were not under specialist care were administrative issues, such as living in another region (12.1%) and lacking contact details (4.1%), and low life expectancy (2.8%). Individuals who did not attend their scheduled visit were mainly young [38.1 ± 12.9 vs. 44.0 ± 14.0 (p < .001)], non‐White European [75.3% vs. 58.1% (p < .001)] and men [70.7% vs. 56.4% (p < .001)].

Conclusions

One in every three HBsAg‐positive individuals in our setting was not currently under specialist care. Of particular note, half of them had never attended a specialist consultation, an essential step for evaluating the disease and starting therapy in some countries.
The role of the gastrointestinal barrier in obesity‐associated systemic inflammation
Authors: Acciarino Adriana , Diwakarla Shanti , Handreck Jessica , Bergola Cedrick , Sahakian Lauren , McQuade Rachel M.
Published: December 2023

Systemic inflammation is a key contributor to the onset and progression of several obesity‐associated diseases and is thought to predominantly arise from the hyperplasia and hypertrophy of white adipose tissue. However, a growing body of works suggests that early changes in the gastrointestinal (GI) barrier may contribute to both local, within the GI lining, and systemic inflammation in obesity. Intestinal barrier dysfunction is well‐characterized in inflammatory GI disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and is known to contribute to systemic inflammation. Thus, drawing parallels between GI disorders, where intestinal permeability and systemic inflammation are prominent features, and obesity‐induced GI manifestations may provide insights into the potential role of the intestinal barrier in systemic inflammation in obesity. This review summarizes the current literature surrounding intestinal barrier dysfunction in obesity and explores the potential role of intestinal hyperpermeability and intestinal barrier dysfunction in the development of systemic inflammation and GI dysfunction in obesity.
Variation in the strength of local and regional determinants of herbivory across the Neotropics
Authors: Joy Massad Tara , Rangel Nascimento André , Fernando Campos Moreno Diego , Simbaña Wilmer , Garcia Lopez Humberto , Sulca Lidia , Lepesqueur Cintia , Richards Lora A. , Forister Matthew L. , Stireman John O. , Tepe Eric J. , Uckele Kathryn A. , Braga Laura , Walla Thomas R. , Smilanich Angela M. , Grele Ari , Dyer Lee A.
Published: December 2023

Insect herbivory can be an important selective pressure and contribute substantially to local plant richness. As herbivory is the result of numerous ecological and evolutionary processes, such as complex insect population dynamics and evolution of plant antiherbivore defenses, it has been difficult to predict variation in herbivory across meaningful spatial scales. In the present work, we characterize patterns of herbivory on plants in a species‐rich and abundant tropical genus (Piper) across forests spanning 44° of latitude in the Neotropics. We modeled the effects of geography, climate, resource availability, and Piper species richness on the median, dispersion, and skew of generalist and specialist herbivory. By examining these multiple components of the distribution of herbivory, we were able to determine factors that increase biologically meaningful herbivory at the upper ends of the distribution (indicated by skew and dispersion). We observed a roughly twofold increase in median herbivory in humid relative to seasonal forests, which aligns with the hypothesis that precipitation seasonality plays a critical role in shaping interaction diversity within tropical ecosystems. Site level variables such as latitude, seasonality, and maximum Piper richness explained the positive skew in herbivory at the local scale (plot level) better for assemblages of Piper congeners than for a single species. Predictors that varied between local communities, such as resource availability and diversity, best explained the distribution of herbivory within sites, dampening broad patterns across latitude and climate and demonstrating why generalizations about gradients in herbivory have been elusive. The estimated population means, dispersion, and skew of herbivory responded differently to abiotic and biotic factors, illustrating the need for careful studies to explore distributions of herbivory and their effects on forest diversity.
A Novel Technique of Arthroscopic‐Assisted Four‐Corner Fusion and Robot‐Assisted Fixation for Scaphoid Nonunion Advanced Collapse Wrist: A Single Case Study
Authors: Gao XingShuai , Lim Rebecca Qian Ru , Liu Bo
Published: December 2023

Objective

Scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) is a relatively common and debilitating wrist disorder yet its treatment remains challenging and controversial. We aim to describe a novel technique of a dual arthroscopic and robotic assisted four‐corner fusion (4CF) in the treatment of SNAC wrist.

Methods

In this study, we describe an original arthroscopic and robotic assisted 4CF, which is novel and currently unpublished in literature. The surgical approach included these predefined steps: arthroscopic resection of the scaphoid, radial styloid and of diseased cartilage between the capitate‐lunate joint and triquetrum‐hamate joint, correction of Dorsal Intercalated Segment Instability (DISI) deformity of the wrist and robotic assisted 4CF performed percutaneously with screws. Dynamic fluoroscopic imaging with the mini C‐arm was performed five times and the 3D scanning machine was used once.

Results

Our patient with SNAC II wrist was 57 years old at the time of initial presentation with a history of untreated traumatic wrist injury approximately 20 years ago. Regular wrist X‐rays were performed at the outpatient setting and a computed tomography (CT) of the wrist was performed at the third postoperative month to confirm bony union. The patient's wrist range of motion (ROM), grip strength, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score, Quick Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score, Modified Mayo Wrist Score (MMWS), and Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) were also evaluated during short‐term follow‐up at 6 months. During the patient's review at 6 months, his VAS score was 0 with complete pain relief. His wrist flexion was 20° and wrist extension at 45°. His pronation‐supination was normal and comparable to his uninjured contralateral wrist. His operated wrist which was also his dominant hand had a grip strength of 22 kg as compared with 28 kg of the unaffected hand. He also had a Mayo Wrist Score of 85, QuickDASH score of 2.3 and PRWE of 6, and resumed his occupation as a clerk at 3 months.

Conclusions

This dual arthroscopic and robotic assisted 4CF is a novel surgical method worth considering in the treatment of SNAC II wrists. It is minimally invasive and allows for accurate placement of the screws in a single attempt. There was bony union by the third postoperative month as confirmed by CT imaging and excellent resolution of symptoms.
Percutaneous Fully‐endoscopic Anterior Transcorporeal Procedure for the Treatment of Isolated Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament in the Cervical Spine: A Case Report
Authors: Li Jin , Ao Jun , Hu Xiaolin , Du Qian , Qin Jianpu , Ji Wen Jun , Xin Zhijun , Liao Wenbo
Published: December 2023

Background

With the development of spinal endoscopic techniques, on the basis of our previous experience in treating various types of cervical disc herniation with this endoscopic technique, we took the lead in applying the percutaneous fully endoscopic anterior transcorporeal procedure to be utilized in the treatment of the isolated cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL).

Case Presentation

A 66‐year‐old male patient who weighed 57 kg, with a height of 169 cm was admitted to the hospital on September 16, 2021 because of recurrent pain and numbness in the neck, shoulder, and right arm for 2 years, which as aggravated for the last 2 weeks. Two years ago, the patient developed neck and shoulder pain accompanied by right arm pain without obvious predisposing factors, and numbness in the first web space of the right hand. In the last 2 weeks, he had difficulty moving the right arm, but no pain or numbness in the contralateral arm. MRI and CT scans demonstrated that the ossified posterior longitudinal ligament of the cervical 5/6 vertebrae with spinal canal stenosis and seriously compressed the spinal cord patient was treated with a percutaneous fully endoscopic anterior transcorporeal procedure.

Conclusion

Our percutaneous fully endoscopic anterior transcorporeal procedure is a feasible, minimally invasive surgery for treating isolated ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament in the cervical spine.
Fertility in a Pandemic: Evidence from California
Authors: Nobles Jenna , Gemmill Alison , Hwang Sungsik , Torche Florencia
Published: December 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic was accompanied by social and economic changes previously associated with fertility delay and reduction, sparking widespread discussion of a “baby bust” in the United States. We examine fertility trends using restricted vital statistics data from California, a diverse population of 40 million, contributing 12 percent of U.S. births. Using time series models that account for longer‐run fertility trends, we observe modest, short‐term reductions in births from mid‐2020 through early 2021. Birth counts in subsequent months matched or even eased the pace of fertility decline since the 2008 recession and are unlikely a function of the pandemic alone. Responses to the pandemic were heterogeneous. Fertility declined markedly among the foreign‐born population, largely driven by changes in net migration. Among the U.S.‐born population, the short‐term pandemic‐attributable reductions were largest among older, highly educated people, suggesting mechanisms of fertility reduction disparately accessible to those with the most resources. We find no evidence of a strong population fertility response to the pandemic's accompanying employment shock, providing additional evidence of a growing divide between macroeconomic conditions and fertility patterns in the United States.
The synergy of halotolerant PGPB and mauran mitigates salt stress in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) via osmoprotectants accumulation
Authors: Sánchez Patricia , Castro‐Cegrí Alejandro , Sierra Sandra , Garrido Dolores , Llamas Inmaculada , Sampedro Inmaculada , Palma Francisco
Published: December 2023

Salinity stress is one of the major abiotic factors limiting sustainable agriculture. Halotolerant plant growth‐promoting bacteria (PGPB) increased salt stress tolerance in plants, but the mechanisms underlying the tolerance are poorly understood. This study investigated the PGP activity of four halotolerant bacteria under salinity stress and the tomato salt‐tolerance mechanisms induced by the synergy of these bacteria with the exopolysaccharide (EPS) mauran. All PGPB tested in this study were able to offer a significant improvement of tomato plant biomass under salinity stress; Peribacillus castrilensis N3 being the most efficient one. Tomato plants treated with N3 and the EPS mauran showed greater tolerance to NaCl than the treatment in the absence of EPS and PGPB. The synergy of N3 with mauran confers salt stress tolerance in tomato plants by increasing sodium transporter genes' expression and osmoprotectant content, including soluble sugars, polyols, proline, GABA, phenols and the polyamine putrescine. These osmolytes together with the induction of sodium transporter genes increase the osmotic adjustment capacity to resist water loss and maintain ionic homeostasis. These findings suggest that the synergy of the halotolerant bacterium N3 and the EPS mauran could enhance tomato plant growth by mitigating salt stress and could have great potential as an inductor of salinity tolerance in the agriculture sector.
Genetic basis of maize stalk strength decoded via linkage and association mapping
Authors: Zhao Binghao , Li Kun , Wang Min , Liu Zhiyuan , Yin Pengfei , Wang Weidong , Li Zhigang , Li Xiaowei , Zhang Lili , Han Yingjia , Li Jiansheng , Yang Xiaohong
Published: December 2023

Stalk lodging is a severe problem that limits maize production worldwide, although little attention has been given to its genetic basis. Here we measured rind penetrometer resistance (RPR), an effective index for stalk lodging, in a multi‐parent population of 1948 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) and an association population of 508 inbred lines (AMP508). Linkage and association mapping identified 53 and 29 single quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and 50 and 19 pairs of epistatic interactions for RPR in the multi‐parent population and AMP508 population, respectively. Phenotypic variation explained by all identified epistatic QTLs (up to ~5%) was much less than that explained by all single additive QTLs (up to ~33% in the multi‐parent population and ~ 60% in the AMP508 population). Among all detected QTLs, only eight single QTLs explained >10% of phenotypic variation in single RIL populations. Alleles that increased RPR were enriched in tropical/subtropical (TST) groups from the AMP508 population. Based on genome‐wide association studies in both populations, we identified 137 candidate genes affecting RPR, which were assigned to multiple biological processes, such as the biosynthesis of cell wall components. Sixty‐six candidate genes were cross‐validated by multiple methods or populations. Most importantly, 23 candidate genes were upregulated or downregulated in high‐RPR lines relative to low‐RPR lines, supporting the associations between candidate genes and RPR. These findings reveal the complex nature of the genetic basis underlying RPR and provide loci or candidate genes for developing elite varieties that are resistant to stalk lodging via molecular breeding.
Increasing deletion sizes and the efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated mutagenesis by SunTag‐mediated TREX1 recruitment
Authors: Capdeville Niklas , Schindele Patrick , Puchta Holger
Published: December 2023

Previously, it has been shown that mutagenesis frequencies can be improved by directly fusing the human exonuclease TREX2 to Cas9, resulting in a strong increase in the frequency of smaller deletions at the cut site. Here, we demonstrate that, by using the SunTag system for recruitment of TREX2, the mutagenesis efficiency can be doubled in comparison to the direct fusion in Arabidopsis thaliana. Therefore, we also tested the efficiency of the system for targeted deletion formation by recruiting two other 3′‐5′ exonucleases, namely the human TREX1 and E. coli ExoI. It turns out that SunTag‐mediated recruitment of TREX1 not only improved the general mutation induction efficiency slightly in comparison to TREX2, but that, more importantly, the mean size of the induced deletions was also enhanced, mainly via an increase of deletions of 25 bp or more. EcExoI also yielded a higher amount of larger deletions. However, only in the case of TREX1 and TREX2, the effect was predominately SunTag‐dependent, indicating efficient target‐specific recruitment. Using SunTag‐mediated TREX1 recruitment at other genomic sites, we were able to obtain similar deletion patterns. Thus, we were able to develop an attractive novel editing tool that is especially useful for obtaining deletions in the range from 20 to 40 bp around the cut site. Such sizes are often required for the manipulation of cis‐regulatory elements. This feature is closing an existing gap as previous approaches, based on single nucleases or paired nickases or nucleases, resulted in either shorter or longer deletions, respectively.