bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors Associated With Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events and Malignancies in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis in a Real‐World Setting in Japan
Authors: Yamaoka Kunihiro , Sugiyama Naonobu , Hoshi Masato , Jo Joo‐Young , Shin Kichul , Hirano Toshitaka
Published: December 2024

Aim

To identify risk factors associated with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and malignancies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using real‐world data from Japan.

Methods

This cohort study used the Real World Data database of medical institutions in Japan. Eligible patients (January 2013–December 2021) had ≥ 1 RA diagnosis, were aged ≥ 18 years, prescribed ≥ 1 antirheumatic drug, had no psoriasis diagnosis, and had a record postindex. Patients had no myocardial infarction/stroke ≤ 31 days (MACE cohort) or malignancy < 1 year (malignancy cohort) before index. Cohorts were determined by incidence of initial MACE or malignancy. Known/exploratory variables were selected using Cox regression models.

Results

Across MACE (n = 16 012) and malignancy (n = 14 545) cohorts, most patients were female and aged ≥ 65 years. Overall, 214 MACE per 43964.7 patient‐years (incidence rate 0.49 per 100 patient‐years) and 315 malignancies per 40251.6 patient‐years (incidence rate 0.78 per 100 patient‐years) occurred. Male sex, older age (≥ 65 years), hypertension, renal disease, cerebrovascular disease, and prior X‐ray examination were significantly associated with increased MACE risk. Male sex, older age (≥ 50 years), nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug use, emphysema, serious infection, malignancy history, and prior X‐ray examination were significantly associated with increased malignancy risk. Conversely, glucocorticoid use and fracture diagnosis were significantly associated with reduced malignancy risk.

Conclusion

In patients with RA in Japan, male sex, older age, and prior X‐ray examination were associated with increased MACE and malignancy risk.
Functional effect of adiponectin and body composition assessment in lung cancer subjects after video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy
Authors: Messina Gaetana , Natale Giovanni , Fiorelli Alfonso , Puca Maria Antonietta , Moscatelli Fiorenzo , Monda Vincenzo , Monda Marcellino , Di Domenico Marina , Corte Carminia Maria Della , Marsala Gabriella , Vicario Giuseppe , Dalia Carmine , Bassi Paola , Leonardi Beatrice , De Maria Antonella , Monda Antonietta , Messina Giovanni , Messina Antonietta , Polito Rita
Published: December 2024

Background

Lung cancer is a pathology with an important incidence. It is a multifactorial disease characterized by epigenetic and nutritional factors. Indeed, there is a strong association between adipose tissue and the pulmonary system, and low‐grade inflammation of obese and/or overweight subjects have a pivotal role in lung cancer establishment.

Methods

In this study, we analyzed body composition through bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and biochemical parameters such as glycemic and lipidic profile, inflammation profile and adiponectin serum levels in 30 patients (19 male; 11 women) undergoing video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy for lung cancer from September 2021 to May 2022 at the Thoracic Unit of Luigi Vanvitelli University of Naples. A control group were also recruited (15 male; 15 female) consisting of age and sex matched volunteered subjects at the Thoracic Unit of Luigi Vanvitelli University of Naples. The control group and lung cancer patients were monitored for anthropometric and biochemical parameters before VATS lobectomy. Furthermore, the lung cancer patients were also monitored after 6 months of surgery.

Results

Body composition is modified after surgery and also albumin and C‐reactive protein (CRP) serum levels. In the overweight patients in our study, adiponectin levels were found to be reduced compared with the control group and increased in the same patients after VATS lobectomy.

Conclusions

Tumor removal as well as weight loss could affect adiponectin levels, and thus also a reduction in inflammation. In addition, weight loss could also be due to a psychological condition given by the intervention and not to malnutrition related to therapy.
Decloaking whiteness: Linguistic and pedagogical imperialisms of International Baccalaureate teacher education in Japan
Authors: Shah Akira
Published: December 2024

This article examines everyday International Baccalaureate Educator Certificate (IBEC) environments in Japanese higher education through a theoretical framework of whiteness. Exploring dissonances shaped by English and constructivism at two universities, I argue that communities challenge Anglo‐American and Euro‐American epistemologies imbued within globalist education. I call for scholarship on whiteness to better prioritize decloaking its plethora of still concealed artifacts, an issue I elucidate with two examples in language and pedagogy.
Comparative analysis of hidden damage caused by the stem borer Ceutorhynchus species in oilseed rape using computer tomography
Authors: Keszthelyi Sándor , Gerbovits Bálint , Donkó Tamás , Csóka Ádám , Balog Adalbert , Somfalvi‐Tóth Katalin
Published: December 2024

The weevils of the Ceutorhynchus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) are significant pests, posing a threat to oilseed rape cultivation in Central Europe. Due to their lifestyle, these weevils cause hidden damage within the stems.

Our non‐invasive computer tomography‐based study aimed to compare the damage characteristics of three species within this genus: C. pallidactylus (Marsham), C. napi (Gyll.), and C. picitarsis (Gyll.), in oilseed rape stems.

During the CT analysis of the plant samples from axial, coronal, and sagittal approaches at different points, we measured the length of the damaging larvae, their number per plant, their distance from each other, the volume of the formed cavity, and the diameter of the damaged plant stems. Additionally, we investigated the closeness of the connections between these forms of damage.

Our study found that damage to plant samples during the period of interest was species‐specific. Significant differences were observed in the longitudinal size dimensions of the larvae, the volume of the formed cavities, and the diameters of the stems of the attacked plants among the species causing the damage.

The Pearson correlation results confirmed a strong correlation between the volumes of the formed cavities and the values of larval length (l) and stem diameter (⌀), as well as between stem diameter and larval length data for each species (C. pallidactylus: l = 6.903 ± 1.332 mm, ⌀ = 11.43 ± 0.707 mm; C. napi: l = 9.868 ± 0.617 mm, ⌀ = 23.11 ± 2.813 mm; C. picitarsis: l = 3.772 ± 0.967 mm, ⌀ = 11.16 ± 0.365 mm). These results suggest that the damages caused by these hidden lifestyle stem pests of oilseed rape are species‐specific.
Direct and indirect effects of childhood adversity on psychopathology: Investigating parallel mediation via self‐concept clarity, self‐esteem and intolerance of uncertainty
Authors: Sharratt Lindsey , Ridout Nathan
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The aim was to extend previous work on the identity disruption model (IDM) of adult psychological distress. According to the IDM, aversive childhood experiences (ACEs) disrupt the development of identity, resulting in an unclear sense of self and a reliance on external sources of self‐definition, leading to psychological distress in adulthood. In line with this model, self‐concept clarity (SCC) in parallel with self‐esteem (SE) and intolerance of uncertainty (IU) has been shown to mediate the relationship between childhood adversity and depression and anxiety. The current study examined if SCC, SE and IU mediated the influence of childhood adversity on depression, anxiety and hypomania.

Methods

A community sample of 159 adults completed online measures of childhood adversity, self‐esteem, self‐concept clarity, intolerance of uncertainty, depression, anxiety and hypomania. Structured equation modelling using bias corrected bootstrapping was used to test the mediation model.

Results

Direct effects of childhood adversity were found for depression and anxiety, but not hypomania. The influence of ACEs on depression and anxiety was mediated by self‐concept clarity and self‐esteem. Self‐concept clarity also mediated the influence of ACEs on hypomania, which is an important novel finding. The indirect effect of childhood adversity via intolerance of uncertainty was limited to anxiety.

Conclusions

Results suggest that the identity disruption model generalizes to hypomania. The clinical implications are that interventions to improve clarity of the self‐concept might be useful in reducing psychopathology.
Black Rage, White Gaze: How Can Black Lives, Historically Reified, Have ‘Room to Breathe’ in Contemporary Psychoanalysis?
Authors: Nanji‐Rowe Fembe
Published: December 2024

The 2020 Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests were a stark reminder of the reality of problematic ‘race’ relations. This paper, originally conceived in the aftermath of George Floyd's murder with his final words ‘I can't breathe!’, examines the psychoanalysis of anti‐black racism as a contemporary problem to address. This raises important epistemological questions about the forms of knowledge that get produced given the complex relationship between psychoanalysis and coloniality. Frantz Fanon unpacked the impact of racial violence and the white gaze as one of alienation, nonbeing and Black Rage in White Skin, Black Masks. This paper makes use of Fanon's 1952 thesis and clinical vignettes from analysts of colour in relation to ‘race’ as well as secondary literature on psychoanalysis and postcoloniality inviting the reader to appreciate Black Rage as a legitimate and constructive affect. I submit two ‘anchors’ for psychoanalysis to consider in theory and in practice for the birth of a physical and psychic ‘room to breathe’, a place for the black individual to exist with more psychological sovereignty: (1) an extension of Melanie Klein's depressive position and (2) an extension of the concept of mourning, as crucial intrapsychic processes for black lives to matter. The argument advanced is that, due to the extraordinary historical, social and political circumstance placed on black people as a racially oppressed group, the trauma of racism is one of alienation to a zone of nonbeing, a ‘space’ which, incidentally, offers radical hope in the form of Black Rage. Psychoanalysis is adequately positioned to acknowledge Black Rage as a powerful affect and civic tool, and this may be thought about through intrapsychic processes originating in classical psychoanalytic theory as well as Kleinian object relations, principally the concepts of mourning and depressive awareness, which considered together liberate aspects of therapeutic work.
The role of interdependent self‐construal in mitigating the effect of conspiratorial beliefs on vaccine acceptance
Authors: Deng Yingli , Wang Cynthia S. , Cheng Gloria Danqiao , Whitson Jennifer A. , Dow Benjamin J. , Lee Angela Y.
Published: December 2024

Infectious diseases pose significant challenges to public health, leading to illness and even death. Vaccinations are vital for protecting society, yet beliefs in conspiracy theories related to infectious diseases increase vaccine hesitancy. This paper delves into vaccination decisions in the context of COVID‐19, which continues to strain the health care system. While past research focuses on countering conspiratorial beliefs with cognitive persuasion interventions, we propose a social intervention as an alternative. Our novel intervention seeks to mitigate the effects of conspiratorial beliefs by fostering individuals' interdependent self‐construal – viewing oneself in the context of social relationships. Interdependent self‐construal was operationalized in multiple ways (measured in Studies 1, 2 and 3; manipulated to test causality in Studies 4 and 5). Conspiratorial beliefs were also manipulated in Study 5. The results show that the association between conspiratorial beliefs and vaccine hesitancy is weakened among individuals whose interdependent self‐construal is more accessible. Moreover, this effect was mediated by prosocial motivation. We discuss the implications of our findings for developing and communicating health policies and propose potential contexts where this intervention may be relevant, thereby providing valuable insights into enhancing societal well‐being in the face of conspiratorial beliefs.
Antithrombotic but not anticoagulant activity of the thrombin‐binding RNA aptamer Apta‐1
Authors: Jedlina Luiza , Paramel Geena , Soboleva Svetlana , Chutna Olin Oldriska , Haug Marianne , Fransén Karin , Lindstam Mikael , Brewinska‐Olchowik Marta , Piwocka Katarzyna , Grenegård Magnus
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose

Pharmacological intervention of thrombosis is challenging, requiring a fined tune balance between beneficial antithrombotic effect versus risk of major bleeding complications. In this investigation, we elucidated the antithrombotic capacity of the novel 90‐mer RNA aptamer Apta‐1 and its underlying mechanism of action.

Experimental Approach

We utilized three independent in vivo animal models to establish antithrombotic activity and bleeding risk of Apta‐1. Several cellular and molecular techniques were utilized to extensively characterize the effects of Apta‐1 on primary and secondary haemostasis.

Key Results

Apta‐1 significantly reduced thrombus weight in ferric chloride‐induced carotid artery thrombosis. A consistent reduction in thrombus weight was also observed in arteriovenous shunt thrombosis in rats, whereas tail bleeding time was unaffected. Cellular and molecular analyses revealed that Apta‐1 interacted with thrombin, resulting in significant inhibition of protease‐activated receptor (PAR) signalling in platelets. On the other hand, Apta‐1 shortened both thrombin generation and thrombin‐induced clotting times.

Conclusions and Implications

Apta‐1 targets the heparin‐binding motif exosite II on thrombin leading to significant suppression of platelet PAR1 and PAR4 signalling. Intriguingly, Apta‐1 produces substantial antithrombotic activity without anticoagulant or general antiplatelet properties. In fact, we found that Apta‐1 accelerates the formation of blood clots and thus supports haemostasis without exhibiting typical anticoagulant properties. We suggest that Apta‐1 may be a promising future drug candidate for treatment of thrombosis in diseases/conditions where there are significant risks of serious bleeding complications.
Loss of AXIN1 regulates response to lenvatinib through a WNT/KDM5B/p15 signalling axis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Tang Chengfang , Tang Chu , Zhu Xuanchi , Wang Simeng , Yang Yuan , Miao Yu , Zhao Xiaoyao , Jia Lina , Yang Jingyu , Su Yang , Wang Lihui , Wu Chunfu
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose

As a highly heterogeneous cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) shows different response rates to the multi‐kinase inhibitor lenvatinib. Thus, it is important to explore genetic biomarkers for precision lenvatinib therapy in HCC.

Experimental Approach

The effect and mechanism of AXIN1 mutation on HCC were revealed by cell proliferation assay, long‐term clone formation assay, sphere formation assay and small molecule inhibitor library screening. A new therapeutic strategy targeting HCC with AXIN1 mutation was evaluated in humanized models (patient‐derived xenograft [PDX] and patient‐derived organoid [PDO]).

Key Results

Based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data, we screened 6 most frequently lost tumour suppressor genes in HCC (TP53, ARID1A, AXIN1, CDKN2A, ARID2 and PTEN) and identified AXIN1 as the most crucial gene for lenvatinib sensitivity. Further study showed that AXIN1‐knockout HCC cells had a more malignant phenotype and lower sensitivity to lenvatinib in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, the WNT pathway and its target gene c‐Myc were activated when AXIN1 was missing, and the expression of tumour suppressor p15 was inhibited by transcription co‐repressors c‐Myc and Miz‐1, resulting in the exacerbation of the resistant phenotype. Screening of a library of epigenetic‐related enzyme inhibitors showed that a KDM5B inhibitor up‐regulated p15 expression, leading to increased sensitivity to lenvatinib in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion and Implications

AXIN1‐deficient patients have a lower response to lenvatinib, which may be associated with suppression of p15 mediated by WNT pathway activation. KDM5B inhibitors can restore p15 levels, resulting in efficient killing of resistant cells in HCC.
Genotype–Phenotype Correlations in SYNGAP1‐Related Mental Retardation Type 5
Authors: Hong Liying , Yuan Qifeng
Published: December 2024

Variants in the SYNGAP1 gene leading to decreased SynGAP protein expression are critical for the pathogenesis of mental retardation type 5 (MRD5). This study aims to explore the relationship between SYNGAP1 genotype and clinical phenotype through an expanded sample size, thereby enhancing the understanding of the specific mechanisms underlying MRD5. Data from previously published cases of patients with SYNGAP1 mutations were collected, and the relationship between genotype and clinical phenotype was analyzed. A total of 246 MRD5 patients were included in the analysis. Among them, 98.7% (224/227) were diagnosed with intellectual disability (ID), 91.6% (208/227) with epilepsy, and 57.3% (137/239) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The clinical phenotypes of MRD5 patients were found to be associated with their genotypes. Variants located in exons 1 to 6 may correlate with milder ID and reduced risk of ASD, yet they are more likely to present as refractory epilepsy.
Rapid Response to Penpulimab Combined With Anlotinib and Chemotherapy in a Thoracic SMARCA4‐UT Without PD‐L1 Expression: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Wang Yuanhang , Zhao Kelei , Zhang Jingjing , Yuan Xiaohan , Liu Yanting , Zhang Jinghang , Lu Ping , Zhang Min
Published: December 2024

SMARCA4‐deficient undifferentiated tumor (SMARCA4‐UT) in the chest is a high‐grade malignant tumor that grows rapidly and often carries a poor prognosis. Unfortunately, there are currently no effective treatment available until now. Here, we report a case of SMARCA4‐UT in a patient who showed a swift response to a combination treatment of penpulimab, anlotinib, and chemotherapy. A 55‐year‐old man was diagnosed with thoracic SMARCA4‐UT along with metastases to multiple lymph nodes, the pleura, and bones. Immunohistochemical (IHC) testing indicated the absence of PD‐L1 expression in tumor cells. He was given sintilimab and anlotinib as first line treatment. However, a follow‐up chest CT revealed progressive disease (PD) after the first cycle treatment. Subsequently, the second line regimen was modified to etoposide and cisplatin (EP) combined with anlotinib and penpulimab. The effectiveness evaluation revealed partial remission (PR) following two cycles of the second‐line regimen treatment. Notably, the patient's progress‐free survival (PFS) exceeds 7 months and the overall survival up to 12 months. Our case implies that a combination of chemotherapy, anlotinib, and penpulimab might offer a promising therapeutic approach for PD‐L1‐negative thoracic SMARCA4‐UT.
Balanced parenting: Proposing a differentiation‐based parenting approach informed by Bowen family systems theory
Authors: Miller Elizabeth A. , Elder Camille R.
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this article is to introduce Balanced Parenting, a differentiation‐based parenting approach informed by Bowen family systems theory. It is aimed at countering today's anxious, child‐focused parenting culture and deconstructing attachment theory, which has been identified as contributing to this culture. The approach includes four main pillars: (a) deconstructing attachment theory, (b) the five principles of balanced parenting, (c) shifting the paradigm, and (d) steps toward change. Pillar one explains how attachment theory feeds anxious, child‐focused parenting by ignoring parent autonomy and codependency between parent and child and underestimating children's ability to self‐soothe. It also explains that attachment theory's claims are problematic due to lacking systemic thinking and not aligning with empirical research. Pillar two seeks to communicate Bowen theory's parenting perspective through five principles: mutual respect for autonomy, focus on self, child's self‐reliance, improving couple relationships, and letting go of blame. Pillar three can help guide individuals shift their thinking from the attachment paradigm toward the Bowen theory paradigm. Pillar four communicates the steps reset, refocus, and redefine, which can help parents apply a Bowen theory perspective. This approach is expected to relieve parent guilt and burnout, foster children's well‐being and healthy development, and promote genuine, lasting connection between parents and children.
Association Between Reduced Upstream Riparian Forest Cover and Impaired Development of Embryos From Eastern Hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis)
Authors: Funkhouser Holly A. , Case Brian F. , Groffen Jordy , Holloway Austin , Hopkins William A.
Published: December 2024

Populations of the Eastern Hellbender, (a large‐bodied, fully aquatic salamander) inhabiting stream reaches with low catchment‐wide riparian forest cover upstream, have experienced population declines and a shift toward a geriatric population age structure. These population declines and demographic shifts might be attributed to reduced embryo viability. Reduced egg quality/viability could negatively affect recruitment and has also been known to trigger filial cannibalism in other species. Therefore, we hypothesized that in comparison to high forest cover sites, hellbender eggs collected from low forest cover sites would have a greater incidence of developmental abnormalities and lower overall viability, and that this would predict whole‐clutch cannibalism by the attending male.

We collected a subset of eggs (~20–35) from 99 clutches across sites with variable upstream riparian forest cover and reared these eggs through hatching in stream water under controlled laboratory conditions. At the same time, we monitored the fate of the remaining eggs from the same clutches in the field to document the frequency of whole‐clutch filial cannibalism.

We found that eggs collected from sites with lower upstream forest cover had significantly shorter embryonic development times and produced a lower percentage of viable hatchlings (hatchlings with normal development times and morphology). The average modelled viability of hatchlings was 70% higher in sites with the highest forest cover compared to our sites with the lowest forest cover. In contrast to our predictions, we did not find evidence to suggest that egg viability in the lab predicted whole‐clutch cannibalism in the field.

Although forest cover was a significant predictor of egg viability and underdevelopment, substantial variance in embryonic developmental traits was unaccounted for in our models suggesting that traits associated with adults (e.g., egg and/or sperm quality) may also play a role in determining developmental outcomes. Further experiments are needed to identify what factors (e.g., egg quality, water quality) disrupt the embryonic development of hellbenders as well as the proximate stimulus that causes adult male hellbenders to eat their young.

Our results emphasise the importance of restoring and protecting riparian forest cover to conserve sensitive stream species.
Spatiotemporal Monitoring of Cropland Soil Organic Carbon Changes From Space
Authors: Broeg Tom , Don Axel , Wiesmeier Martin , Scholten Thomas , Erasmi Stefan
Published: December 2024

Soil monitoring requires accurate and spatially explicit information on soil organic carbon (SOC) trends and changes over time. Spatiotemporal SOC models based on Earth Observation (EO) satellite data can support large‐scale SOC monitoring but often lack sufficient temporal validation based on long‐term soil data. In this study, we used repeated SOC samples from 1986 to 2022 and a time series of multispectral bare soil observations (Landsat and Sentinel‐2) to model high‐resolution cropland SOC trends for almost four decades. An in‐depth validation of the temporal model uncertainty and accuracy of the derived SOC trends was conducted based on a network of 100 long‐term monitoring sites that were continuously resampled every 5 years. While the general SOC prediction accuracy was high (R2 = 0.61; RMSE = 5.6 g kg−1), the direct validation of the derived SOC trends revealed a significantly greater uncertainty (R2 = 0.16; p < 0.0001), even though predicted and measured values showed similar distributions. Classifying the results into declining and increasing SOC trends, we found that 95% of all sites were either correctly identified or predicted as stable (p < 0.001), highlighting the potential of our findings. Increased accuracies for SOC trends were found in soils with higher SOC contents (R2 = 0.4) and sites with reduced tillage (R2 = 0.26). Based on the signal‐to‐noise ratio and temporal model uncertainty, we were able to show that the necessary time frame to detect SOC trends strongly depends on the absolute SOC changes present in the soils. Our findings highlight the potential to generate significant cropland SOC trend maps based on EO data and underline the necessity for direct validation with repeated soil samples and long‐term SOC measurements. This study marks an important step toward the usability and integration of EO‐based SOC maps for large‐scale soil carbon monitoring.
Biogeography of Soil Phosphorus‐Cycling Microbes in a Changing World
Authors: Chu Haiyan , Ma Yuying
Published: December 2024

Soil microbes involved in phosphorus cycling facilitate the fixation and mineralization of phosphorus through various biological processes. The biogeography of soil phosphorus‐cycling microbes is of great significance for a comprehensive understanding of their ecological roles and utilization of their functions. It is imperative to underscore the profound impact of human activities on soil phosphorus‐cycling microbes, which will significantly contribute to refining soil management practices and fostering sustainable human interactions essential for safeguarding soil ecosystems in our ever‐changing world.
Environmental and Spatial Effects on Co‐Occurrence Network Size and Taxonomic Similarity in Stream Diatoms, Insects and Fish
Authors: Mruzek Joseph L. , Budnick William R. , Larson Chad A. , Passy Sophia I.
Published: December 2024

Aim

The influences of environmental and spatial processes on species composition have been at the center of metacommunity ecology. Conversely, the relative importance of these processes for species co‐occurrences and taxonomic similarity has remained poorly understood. We hypothesised that at a subcontinental scale, shared environmental preference would be the major driver of co‐occurrences across species groups. In contrast, co‐occurrences due to shared dispersal history were more likely in dispersal‐limited taxa. Finally, we tested whether taxa co‐occurring due to similar responses to environmental and spatial processes were more taxonomically similar than expected by chance.

Location

The conterminous United States.

Time Period

1993–2019.

Major Taxa Studied

Stream diatoms, insects and fish.

Methods

We generated co‐occurrence networks and developed methodology to determine the proportions of nodes and edges explained by pure environment alone (after accounting for space), pure space alone (after accounting for the environment), pure environment and pure space together, and spatially structured environment. Taxonomic similarity of taxa co‐occurring because of environmental and/or spatial controls or because of unmeasured processes was compared to that of a null model.

Results

Pure environment alone, spatially structured environment, and pure environment and pure space together explained the greatest proportion of nodes and edges in the co‐occurrence networks of diatom species and genera, and insect genera. Conversely, pure environment and pure space together best explained the nodes and edges in the co‐occurrence network of fish species and genera. Co‐occurring taxa were more closely related than the random expectation in all comparisons.

Main Conclusions

The environment controlled co‐occurrences in all groups, while the influence of space was the strongest in fish, the most dispersal‐limited group in our study. All co‐occurring taxa were more taxonomically related than expected by chance due to environmental or spatial overlap or unaccounted factors.
Dialysis Jeopardy!
Authors: Mangalgi Shreepriya , Misra Madhukar
Published: December 2024

Dialysis Jeopardy! was a fun and innovative dialysis quiz for conference attendees at the Annual Dialysis Conference 2024 held in San Diego. The event saw active participation from nephrology fellows, faculty, and allied health care professionals. The event provided an excellent opportunity for nephrology fellows to interact with faculty in a nonformal setting.
“Teacher, I Don't Know How to Describe ‘Tom Yum Kung’ in English, but I Know ‘Hamburger’ and ‘Pizza’:” Will Global Englishes Language Teaching be a Beacon of Hope or a Recipe for Disaster in Thai ELT?
Authors: Boonsuk Yusop
Published: December 2024

The emerging linguistic landscape of English as a global language calls for practitioners in Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) to move beyond monolingual instruction and adopt a more plurilingual pedagogy. Despite substantial research on implementing global Englishes language teaching (GELT) across the three circles, a research gap persists, especially in secondary education. To bridge the gap, this qualitative study explored the possibility of GELT integration in English classrooms from the lens of 18 students, nine teachers, and nine administrators at nine secondary schools in southern Thailand through focus group discussions and semi‐structured interviews. The data from the qualitative content analysis revealed participants’ positive perceptions of GELT since it was viewed as instrumental in preparing learners to take a practical approach when utilizing English beyond specific forms and norms. However, challenges remained in establishing GELT, especially in contexts dominated by native‐speakerism and linguistic imperialism ideologies. Achieving this goal demands coordinated efforts among TESOL practitioners at all levels. These initiatives involve both policymakers who shape English education through top‐down directives and educators, who implement these strategies from the bottom up. The success of this collaboration is critical in revisiting English learning aims, repositioning English proficiency assessment, embracing sociocultural relevance in ELT, introducing translanguaging pedagogy for ELT, and redefining English instructional models to reflect the global diversity of English more accurately.
Prostate‐specific antigen kinetics in Asian patients with metastatic castration‐sensitive prostate cancer treated with apalutamide in the TITAN trial: A post hoc analysis
Authors: Ye Ding‐Wei , Uemura Hirotsugu , Chung Byung Ha , Suzuki Hiroyoshi , Mundle Suneel , Bhaumik Amitabha , Singh Anildeep , Chowdhury Simon , Agarwal Neeraj , Chi Kim N. , Huang Jian
Published: December 2024

Objective

In the TITAN trial of patients with metastatic castration‐sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC), deep and rapid prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) decline with apalutamide plus androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) was associated with longer overall survival (OS), radiographic progression‐free survival (rPFS), time to PSA progression (TTPP), and time to castration resistance (TTCR) compared with no decline (all p < 0.0001). This post hoc analysis evaluated PSA kinetics in the Asian subpopulation.

Methods

Data were analyzed for patients enrolled in China, Japan, and Korea and treated with apalutamide (n = 111) or placebo (n = 110) plus ADT. Examined were depth of PSA response, rates of PSA decline, and associations between a deep PSA response and clinical outcomes in apalutamide‐treated patients.

Results

Confirmed PSA response rates were higher with apalutamide than placebo: 73.9% versus 33.6% for PSA ≤0.2 ng/mL, 90.1% versus 58.2% for PSA reduction ≥50% [PSA50], and 74.8% versus 25.5% for PSA reduction ≥90% [PSA90]. Median (Q1; Q3) time to PSA ≤0.2 ng/mL, PSA50 and PSA90 response in the apalutamide group was 1.9 (1.0; 3.7), 1.0 (1.0; 1.0), and 1.8 (1.0; 1.9) months, respectively. PSA responses with apalutamide or placebo were consistent irrespective of high‐ or low‐volume disease. Achievement of confirmed PSA ≤0.2 ng/mL or PSA90 response with apalutamide at landmark 3 months was associated with significantly (nominal p‐values) longer OS (hazard ratio: 0.23; p = 0.0009), TTPP (0.16; p = 0.0001), TTCR (0.20; p < 0.0001), and time to progression on first subsequent therapy or death (0.19; p < 0.0001) compared with no decline.

Conclusion

PSA kinetics have applications for early prognostic evaluation in Asian patients with mCSPC.
Towards Better Understanding of Party‐Union Relationship: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Kamiński Paweł , Czarnecki Szczepan
Published: December 2024

In many European democracies, political parties and trade unions have developed a long‐standing relationship. This relationship has certainly evolved over the last few decades as both actors have had to adapt to changes in their constituencies. This study examines the evolving dynamics between political parties and trade unions across Europe, with a focus on both Western and Central‐Eastern European contexts. By utilising data from the Comparative Interest Group survey, we investigate how factors such as political power, resources, and ideological alignments influence these interactions. Our findings reveal that unions prioritise contacts with ruling parties, underscoring the importance of political access. Despite assumptions, financial resources alone do not determine engagement frequency, as well as ideological alliances. We also highlight differing contact levels influenced by political systems, showing that pluralist environments foster more interaction compared to corporatist settings. This research contributes valuable insights into the adaptive strategies of trade unions in contemporary democracies, reflecting on historical ties and varying institutional landscapes.
Language and Ageing in Adults With Down Syndrome: An Analysis of Receptive and Expressive Language Measures
Authors: Figueroa Mario , Darbra Sònia
Published: December 2024

Background

The evidence on the effect of age on the receptive and expressive language skills of individuals with Down syndrome is inconclusive. Recent research highlights the relevance of having tools to detect age‐related changes in language skills.

Method

Data were collected on 45 adults with Down syndrome. All were assessed with the Peabody test, token test, verbal fluency tasks and an expressive language sample.

Results

Scores on token and Peabody showed a decline in older adults, whereas no significant effect of age was observed for expressive language measures. A quadratic regression confirmed the association between age and receptive language measures. Highly significant associations were also found between the performance on receptive and expressive language measures.

Conclusions

Receptive language skills are more age‐sensitive than the expressive language skills. In addition to expressive language skills, receptive language skills should be measured because they show age associated changes not observed in expressive language.
Long Non‐Coding RNA LINC01116 Promotes the Proliferation of Lung Adenocarcinoma by Targeting miR‐9‐5p/CCNE1 Axis
Authors: Zhang Hui , Cai Wenwen , Miao Yiyan , Gu Yihang , Zhou Xiaorong , Kaneda Hiroyasu , Wang Lan
Published: December 2024

Long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) LINC01116 is crucial in promoting cell proliferation, invasion and migration in solid tumours, including lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). LINC01116 acts as a competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) that binds competitively to microRNAs and plays a critical role in tumour migration and invasion. However, other mechanisms of action besides the ceRNA theory have been rarely reported and remain to be elucidated further. The differences in RNA and protein levels in cells and tissues were assessed through real‐time quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis. In vitro functional assays and in vivo xenograft models were used to analyse the function of LINC01116 in LUAD. Thus, the molecular correlation between miR‐9‐5p and CCNE1 was investigated through direct and indirect mechanism experiments. LINC01116, miR‐9‐5p and CCNE1 were upregulated in LUAD cell lines and tissues and were associated with a poor prognosis in patients. LINC01116 depletion inhibited proliferation but facilitated cell apoptosis. AGO2‐RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation (AGO2‐RIP) experiments confirmed that AGO2 binds to LINC01116 and miR‐9‐5p, indicating that LINC01116 interacts with miR‐9‐5p. The overexpression of miR‐9‐5p and CCNE1 effectively counteracts the biological effects of LINC01116 knockdown on reduced proliferation and cell cycle arrest in LUAD cells. The downregulation of miR‐9‐5p significantly reduces the CCNE1 level in A549 cells, and the upregulation of LINC01116 counteracts the downregulation of miR‐9‐5p effect, restoring the expression level of CCNE1. Our data demonstrated that LINC01116 regulates the expression of CCNE1 by positively regulating miR‐9‐5p, thereby affecting cell cycle, proliferation and participating in the development of LUAD.
Divergent Attitudes of Eurosceptic Parties Towards Intergovernmental and Supranational EU Institutions
Authors: Gad Nikolai , Heldt Eugénia C. , Csehi Robert
Published: December 2024

How do Eurosceptic parties position themselves regarding individual European Union (EU) institutions? Using Euromanifesto data from 1979 to 2019, this study addresses this question by disaggregating the attitudes of party families towards separate intergovernmental and supranational EU institutions. It focuses on the relationship between the identities of radical left‐ and right‐wing parties and Euroscepticism. The findings reveal that post‐communist parties are more sceptical of intergovernmental institutions than nationalist parties, whilst nationalist parties are more sceptical of supranational institutions. Despite widespread Euroscepticism in both nationalist and post‐communist party families, nationalist parties' attitudes towards intergovernmental institutions align with those of other party families. In contrast, post‐communist parties support the transfer of more competences to the European Parliament but are sceptical of intergovernmental institutions. These results suggest that foundational party identities influence party‐based Euroscepticism, which has implications for the EU's handling of increasing Euroscepticism.
Placental expression of GLUT‐1, GLUT‐3, and GLUT‐4 mRNA and transcriptome profiling in pregnant women with diabetes
Authors: Sibiak Rafal , Gutaj Pawel , Mantaj Urszula , Adamczak Lukasz , Blatkiewicz Malgorzata , Rucinski Marcin , Wender‐Ozegowska Ewa
Published: December 2024

Aims/Introduction

Placental glucose transport is regulated by glucose transporter proteins (GLUTs). The study aimed to examine placental expression of GLUT‐1, GLUT‐3, and GLUT‐4 mRNA in patients with type 1 diabetes, early gestational diabetes (eGDM), and healthy controls, and to investigate correlations between GLUTs expression and clinical parameters. Additionally, we compared placental transcriptome profiles in recruited subgroups.

Materials and Methods

We recruited 59 pregnant women: 23 with type 1 diabetes, 17 with eGDM, and 19 controls. Patients with diabetes attended follow‐up visits at each trimester. Transcriptome studies were performed in 4 patients per subgroup.

Results

The mean age was similar across all subgroups. eGDM patients had significantly higher BMI and were predominantly obese. We observed a significant 2‐fold (P = 0.009) decrease in placental GLUT‐3 mRNA expression in the type 1 diabetes and eGDM groups. GLUT‐4 mRNA expression was significantly lower in the eGDM group compared to type 1 diabetes (3‐fold) and controls (6‐fold) (P = 0.007). There was a significant negative correlation between GLUT‐3 (R = −0.29) and GLUT‐4 (R = −0.27) mRNA expression and neonatal birth weight. GLUT‐4 expression was negatively correlated with 1st trimester HbA1c (R = −0.72) and OGTT 120′ (R = −0.82) results in eGDM patients, and 3rd trimester glycemic variability (R = −0.49) in type 1 diabetes. Microarray analysis revealed significant transcriptomic changes, with 45 down‐regulated and 365 up‐regulated genes in type 1 diabetes, and 21 significant changes in eGDM.

Conclusions

Placental samples from patients with diabetes exhibit changes in GLUTs expression, which correlates with neonatal growth and several glycemic parameters. Additionally, multiple changes in transcriptomic profiles are observed in hyperglycemic patients.
Large Language Models in Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ren Yaxuan , Luo Xufei , Wang Ye , Li Haodong , Zhang Hairong , Li Zeming , Lai Honghao , Li Xuanlin , Ge Long , ESTILL Janne , Zhang Lu , Yang Shu , Chen Yaolong , Wen Chengping , Bian Zhaoxiang ,   ADVANCED Working Group
Published: December 2024

Background

The application of large language models (LLMs) in medicine has received increasing attention, showing significant potential in teaching, research, and clinical practice, especially in knowledge extraction, management, and understanding. However, the use of LLMs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has not been thoroughly studied. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the status and challenges of LLM applications in TCM.

Methods

A systematic search of five electronic databases and Google Scholar was conducted between November 2022 and April 2024, using the Arksey and O'Malley five‐stage framework to identify relevant studies. Data from eligible studies were comprehensively extracted and organized to describe LLM applications in TCM and assess their performance accuracy.

Results

A total of 29 studies were identified: 24 peer‐reviewed articles, 1 review, and 4 preprints. Two core application areas were found: the extraction, management, and understanding of TCM knowledge, and assisted diagnosis and treatment. LLMs developed specifically for TCM achieved 70% accuracy in the TCM Practitioner Exam, while general‐purpose Chinese LLMs achieved 60% accuracy. Common international LLMs did not pass the exam. Models like EpidemicCHAT and MedChatZH, trained on customized TCM corpora, outperformed general LLMs in TCM consultation.

Conclusion

Despite their potential, LLMs in TCM face challenges such as data quality and security issues, the specificity and complexity of TCM data, and the nonquantitative nature of TCM diagnosis and treatment. Future efforts should focus on interdisciplinary talent cultivation, enhanced data standardization and protection, and exploring LLM potential in multimodal interaction and intelligent diagnosis and treatment.
Machine‐Learning‐Based Spectral Modeling: A Biomimetic Guide for Enhancing Esthetics
Authors: Herrera L. J. , Ghinea R. , Perez M. M. , Paravina R. D.
Published: December 2024

Objective

To provide guidelines and means for optimal coverage and distribution of computer models with 1–10 clusters, designed based on an in vivo extensive dental colorimetric database and compare the findings with some reputable shade guides.

Materials and Methods

The Fuzzy C‐Means (FCM) algorithm was used to optimize the tab position in the CIELAB color space, while MATLAB Fuzzy Logic was used to implement the codes. A minimization process was performed to fine‐tune the cluster centers, minimizing Coverage Error (CE00) and Maximum Error (ME00). Spectral reconstruction was performed, and the results were compared with the corresponding data for VITA classical A1–D4 (VC), Linearguide 3D‐Master (LG), and Bleachedguide 3D‐Master (BG) shade guide. Paired t‐test was employed to assess the significance of CE00 differences.

Results

CE00 and ME00 ranges for 1‐to‐10‐tab models were 3.8 (14.2) to 1.7 (4.3), while the corresponding values for shade guides were 3.1 (9.1) for VC, 2.3 (6.0) for LG, and 2.9 (9.3) for BG. Hence, the 4‐tab‐model with CE00 of 2.2 and ME00 of 7.1, outperformed CE00 of LG (the lowest/best CE00 among shade guides), while the 6‐tab‐model, with CE00 of 2.0 and ME00 of 5.6, outperformed its ME00. A paired t‐test confirmed that increasing the number of tabs models resulted in significant CE improvement in all cases (p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions

Shade guide models with only 4 to 6 tabs, optimized using computational techniques, outperformed physical dental shade guides tested, exhibiting significantly lower (better) Coverage Error and Maximum Error.

Clinical Significance

Given that the spectral modeling was performed on an extensive in vivo database of natural teeth, this approach was validated as a biomimetic guide for shade guides and corresponding materials of the future, offering a possibility for better shade matching with fewer shades/shade tabs.
Ontogenetic change in body shape for white sharks, Carcharodon carcharias, in Australian waters
Authors: Hunt Emily , Bradford Russell W. , Booth David J. , Doak Cameron , Patterson Toby A. , Peddemors Victor M.
Published: December 2024

The analysis of how biological shape changes across ontogeny can provide us with valuable information on how species adapt behaviorally, physiologically, and ecologically. The white shark Carcharodon carcharias is one of the largest and most widely distributed apex predators globally, yet an understanding of ontogenetic changes in body shape and relative scaling of length and weight measures is limited, especially in relation to foraging ecology. Through analysis of a suite of shape‐related metrics, we identified ontogenetic patterns of scaling throughout development. Isometric growth was exhibited for most metrics, failing to show a significant deviation from an isometric slope of 1.0 for length–length relationships, and 3.0 for weight–length relationships. The most notable difference from this trend was the negative allometric growth observed for the upper caudal‐fin lobe length, trunk length, and the mouth length. The surface area of the fins also presented a strong, positive relationship with precaudal length (PCL) and the girth at the pectoral fin. Negative allometric growth was exhibited for three of the fins (pectoral, upper caudal fin, and lower caudal fin) against PCL, exhibiting a significant deviation from the expected isometric growth of 2.0 for area–length relationships. There were no significant differences in morphometric relationships between geographic regions within Australia that samples were collected from. No differences between the sexes were identified; however, this may be an artifact of the lack of mature animal samples. Conversely, life stage was found to have a significant effect on the girth–length and weight–length relationships. The development of regression equations for morphometric measures allows the assessment of white shark body condition and may serve as an assessment tool to understand the potential impacts of human‐induced environmental change on white sharks.