bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct states of Nuclear Speckles emerge as new predictors of cancer prognosis
Authors: Martina Lisa , Małszycki Michał , Aktaş Tuğçe
Published: February 2025

The complex environment of the mammalian nucleus is compartmentalized into functional units by membraneless organelles. Recent advancements have elevated nuclear speckles, one of the most prominent nuclear condensates, to a central role in gene expression regulation. In their recent paper, Alexander and colleagues provide insights into the involvement of nuclear speckles in cancer progression. They identify two signatures of speckle transcriptome that stratify human cancers and, in the case of the clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRC), strongly correlate with drug response and ultimately with patient’s survival. These signatures correspond to different morphological states of nuclear speckles and influence speckle-regulated gene expression. A deeper look into transcriptional regulation allowed the authors to identify an amino acid sequence which enables the central transcription factor responsible of ccRC oncogenesis to bring its chromatin target into nuclear speckle proximity. The findings provide new insights into the intricacies of nuclear speckle biology and offer new avenues for understanding cancer progression and developing targeted therapies.
Table 2 from Active Surveillance in Patients with Extra-abdominal Desmoid-Type Fibromatosis: A Pooled Analysis of Three Prospective Observational Studies
Authors: Colombo Chiara , Hakkesteegt Stefanie , Le Cesne Axel , Barretta Francesco , Blay Jean-Yves , Grünhagen Dirk J. , Penel Nicolas , Lam Laurent , Fiore Marco , Palassini Elena , Grignani Giovanni , Tolomeo Francesco , Collini Paola , Merlini Alessandra , Perrone Federica , Stacchiotti Silvia , Verhoef Cornelis , Bonvalot Sylvie , Gronchi Alessandro
Published: February 2025

Results of the multivariable Cox and Fine and Gray models for TFS, PD, RpPD, FR, and RR.
Figure 2 from Active Surveillance in Patients with Extra-abdominal Desmoid-Type Fibromatosis: A Pooled Analysis of Three Prospective Observational Studies
Authors: Colombo Chiara , Hakkesteegt Stefanie , Le Cesne Axel , Barretta Francesco , Blay Jean-Yves , Grünhagen Dirk J. , Penel Nicolas , Lam Laurent , Fiore Marco , Palassini Elena , Grignani Giovanni , Tolomeo Francesco , Collini Paola , Merlini Alessandra , Perrone Federica , Stacchiotti Silvia , Verhoef Cornelis , Bonvalot Sylvie , Gronchi Alessandro
Published: February 2025

CCI curves for RECIST progression according to sex (A), initial tumor size in mm (B), tumor locations (C), and CTNNB1 mutation types (D). WT, wild-type.
Supplementary Figure 6 from Active Surveillance in Patients with Extra-abdominal Desmoid-Type Fibromatosis: A Pooled Analysis of Three Prospective Observational Studies
Authors: Colombo Chiara , Hakkesteegt Stefanie , Le Cesne Axel , Barretta Francesco , Blay Jean-Yves , Grünhagen Dirk J. , Penel Nicolas , Lam Laurent , Fiore Marco , Palassini Elena , Grignani Giovanni , Tolomeo Francesco , Collini Paola , Merlini Alessandra , Perrone Federica , Stacchiotti Silvia , Verhoef Cornelis , Bonvalot Sylvie , Gronchi Alessandro
Published: February 2025

Supplementary Figure 6. Crude cumulative incidence curves for progression free survival as any event according to sex (A), initial tumour size in mm (B), tumour locations (C), CTNNB1 mutation types (D).
Dynamic Observation of Colonic Lesions, Commensal Microbiome and Mycobiome Variations in Trinitrobenzene Sulfonic Acid -Induced Experimental Crohn's Disease in Rats
Authors: Liu Mingjiang , Wang Huiwen , Huang Junjie , Huai Yuying , Yu Chenglong , Fang Guoqing , Zhang Minxia , Bo Ruonan , Fan Kai , Li Jingui
Published: February 2025

Crohn’s disease (CD) is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the entire digestive lining. Although the pathogenesis of CD remains unclear, multiple factors especially altered microbiota are among its causes. In this study, an experimental CD model was established by TNBS-enema. Then the dynamic changes of colonic tissue lesions, tight junctions, inflammation response, and oxidative stress are respectively tested by H&E staining, immunofluorescence staining, and commercial kits. 16S rRNA and ITS sequencing of colonic feces were applied to analyze the composition and diversity of the microbiome and mycobiome for lasting 5 weeks. As a result, despite TNBS being applied only once time, the stimuli-caused injury reached a peak in the second week (the most severe period), after which symptoms began to gradually return to the normal stage. Additionally, consistent with the TNBS-caused colonic damage, deaths were also concentrated within two weeks after modeling, with only one death occurring in the subsequent period despite ongoing inflammation and other typical symptoms. In terms of gut bacteria, microbiome diversity decreased significantly while mycobiome diversity increased, along with the enrichment of harmful microbiota and shrinkage of probiotic microorganisms. Therefore, the data suggested that TNBS-induced CD can be roughly divided into two phases: the acute inflammatory phase (weeks 1 to 2) and the chronic inflammatory phase (weeks 3 to 5). However, the microbiome and mycobiome dysbiosis did not return to normal within the trial period. Hence, our findings may facilitate a better comprehension of the dynamic progress of experimental TNBS-induced CD.
Assessing Population-Based Radiological Brain Health in Stroke Epidemiology (APRISE): Rationale and Design
Authors: Khatri Pooja , Sucharew Heidi , Sawyer Russell P. , Khandwala Vivek , Wang Lily Li-li , Cornelius Rebecca , Gaskill-Shipley Mary , Tomsick Thomas A. , Wang David , Gangatirkar Shantala , Williamson Brady Jamal , Maloney Thomas , Horn Paul , Carrozzella Janice , Alwell Kathleen , Haverbusch Mary , Kissela Brett M. , Vagal Achala
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Approximately 20% of strokes in the United States are preceded by either a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). Determining which stroke patients are at higher risk for recurrence allows for individualized, aggressive secondary stroke prevention. A comprehensive clinical decision tool, considering the full spectrum of radiological brain health" including small vessel disease parameters, is currently lacking. Furthermore, large-scale characterization of pre-existing radiological brain health may elucidate novel phenotypes. This study aims (1) to characterize imaging manifestations of brain health at a population level, and associated demographic and clinical risk factors at the time of index stroke and (2) to create a 90-day and three-year prediction models of cerebrovascular disease recurrence (ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke) incorporating comprehensive parameters from routine clinical imaging.

Methods: Our overall cohort was estimated to consist of 4250 patients hospitalized with stroke, including 525 with hemorrhagic and 3725 with ischemic/TIA subtypes, ascertained in the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Stroke Study (GCNKSS) population of 1.4 million residents from January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2015. Among 3725 ischemic stroke/TIA patients, based on published and ongoing data collection, we estimated that approximately 16% will have a recurrent ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke over the subsequent three years. Among these, 80% were estimated to have MR imaging for review. Leveraging extensive clinical and demographic data already collected in the 2015 NIH-funded GCKNSS study, we will have obtained and centrally characterized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), acute CT, and vascular data in patients with hospitalized stroke/TIAs. We will determine if and how pre-existing imaging parameters cluster using factor analysis, and identify associated demographic and clinical risk factors in multivariable modeling. We will develop short term (90-day) and long term (three-year) risk prediction models using the machine learning approach of random survival forest with internal validation, and perform Cox regression models as a sensitivity analysis.

Conclusion: The primary outcome is recurrence defined as any stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) occurring after index ischemic stroke or TIA event. For index ischemic strokes, the second event must within a different vascular territory if <14 days from the index event.
Epidemiologic, Tomographic, and infrared Spectroscopic analysis of Double J stent encrustations
Authors: Rubez Andre , Cunha Tamara Silva , Selegatto Ivan , Neto Azal , Miyaoka Ricardo , Bhatti Kamran Hassan , Pedro Renato Nardi
Published: February 2025

Introduction
Double J stent is a common medical device, and it may become encrusted causing significant concern. Understanding the composition and associated risk factors for encrusted stents is crucial for appropriate management. Objective: to evaluate the types of DJ encrustation by infrared spectroscopy and correlate them with patient characteristics and computerized tomographic findings.
Methods
All encrusted stents surgically removed over a one-year period underwent infrared spectroscopy analysis and types of encrustations were compared with the patient’s demographic, clinical, and imaging features. For categorical variables, frequency tables were generated and for comparing continuous measurements across multiple groups, the Kruskal-Wallis test was used, considering p<0.05 as statically significant.
Results
33 patients were included, the mean age was 46 years, mean BMI was 32.9 ± 8.98 kg/m2. The average DJ indwelling time was 8.3 ± 7.78 months. Spectroscopic analysis: 34.3% struvite, uric acid 22.8%, 17.1% calcium oxalate, 11.4% ammonium urate, 5.7% Brushite, 5.7% calcium oxalate dihydrate, and 2.9% Protein. Lower urine pH was associated with Uric Acid encrustations (p=0.017). Uric Acid and urate encrustations presented significantly lower densities on CT readings (p=0.043). Brushite prevalence was surprisingly high in our series and therefore it has to be considered for early double J encrustation.
Conclusion
The types of mineral deposits depicted in our study differed from the literature where calcium oxalate is the most common, therefore other compositions such as struvite and uric acid/ ammonium urate should be considered. Urine pH demonstrated an association with uric acid and urate calcifications, which can be predicted by lower densities in CT readings.
CHA2DS2-VASc score as a predictor of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality in a prospective cohort of hemodialysis patients of predominantly African ancestry: The PROHEMO
Authors: Gutiérrez-Peredo Gabriel Brayan , Gutiérrez-Peredo Andrea Jimena , Montaño-Castellón Iris , Marques da Silva Neto Marinho , Albuquerque da Silva Fernanda , Silva Martins Marcia Tereza , Mendes Matos Cacia , Correia Monteiro Jean Michell , Guimarães Silva Pedro , Lopes Gildete Barreto , Barreto Lopes Marcelo , Correia Luis Claudio , Pecoits-Filho Roberto , Norris Keith C. , Lopes Antonio Alberto
Published: February 2025

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) elevates the risk of cardiovascular and overall mortality among maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Although initially designed to predict stroke in cases of atrial fibrillation, the CHA2DS2-VASc score demonstrates predictive utility, spanning several cardiovascular conditions. This study seeks to evaluate if the CHA2DS2-VASc score is effective in predicting cardiovascular and all-cause mortality for MHD patients.
Methods: The data are part of the "Prospective Study of the Prognosis of Patients on Chronic Hemodialysis" (PROHEMO) developed in Salvador, BA, Brazil. We grouped patients according to CHA2DS2-VASc score ≤2 (group 1) and >2 (group 2). Cox regression was used to estimate the hazard ratio of death (HR): unadjusted; and adjusted for hemoglobin, creatinine, albumin, phosphorus, PTH, liver disease, neoplasia/cancer, months of hemodialysis. Additionally, the distribution of each variable in the CHA2DS2-VASc score and its association with mortality were evaluated. Based on the observed associations and the distribution of age (with only 1.3% of patients aged >75 years) and hypertension (only 4.6% normotensive, leading to an imprecise association estimate), a modified CHA2DS2-VASc score was created.
Results: A total of 237 patients on hemodialysis (51.57 ± 12.46, 57% male) were included. Mean age was 51.6 ± 12.5 years. A total of 55 deaths, 21 from cardiovascular causes. Compared with CHA2DS2-VASc score <2, the unadjusted hazard of death (Model 1) for score ≥2 was twofold for all-cause mortality (HR=2.05; 95% CI: 1.20, 3.49) and more than three times higher for cardiovascular deaths (HR=3.53; 95% CI: 1.46, 8.54). These HRs did not change substantially with adjustment for covariates. In the most comprehensively adjusted Cox model, the HR for all-cause mortality was 2.43 (95% CI: 1.38, 4.23) and for cardiovascular mortality was 3.52 (95% CI: 1.40, 8.84). These results were similar to those observe for the modified version of CHA2DS2-VASc score.
Clostridia enhances intestinal immunity to alleviate ovalbumin-induced allergy
Authors: Zhao Tong , Huang Hong Y. , Mu Rui Q. , Lu Meng D. , Geng Zi M. , Hu Su M. , Ma Wei W. , Zhou Cui
Published: February 2025

Introduction: This study aimed to explore the effect of Clostridia administration on ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergy and the relevant underlying mechanism in BALB/c mice. Methods: Female BALB/c mice were assigned to three groups: control (C), OVA sensitization (CO), and intervention (IG). All mice were treated with antibiotics to eliminate their intestinal flora. Then, the mice in the CO and IG groups were orally treated with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and Clostridia extract, respectively, followed by OVA sensitization, while the mice in the C group only received PBS during the experiment. Allergic reactions, intestinal barrier function, and composition of the gut flora were analyzed. Results: The CO group demonstrated significant allergic reactions when compared to the C and IG groups. The serum levels of interleukin-5 (IL-5) were significantly lower in the IG group than in the CO group. The levels of interferon-γ, transforming growth factor-β1, and T-helper 1 subsets were significantly higher in the IG group than in the CO group. The serum D-lactate level was significantly reduced in the IG group, while IL-22 levels were reduced in the CO group relative to the C group. In addition, tight junction proteins and mucin in the ileal tissues were significantly elevated in the IG group than in the CO group. The relative abundance of Clostridia _UCG014 and Christensenellales was significantly enriched in the feces of mice in the IG group and negatively correlated with the serum sIgG1 level. Conclusion: Clostridia alleviated food allergy symptoms in mice by regulating their intestinal immune function and improving the intestinal microbial composition and enhancing the intestinal barrier.
Constrictive Pericarditis in a Hemodialysis Patient Who Presented with Rapidly Progressive Pericardial Calcification: A Diagnostic Challenge––Case Report
Authors: Tsunematsu Oho , Takeda Shin-ichi , Yamaguchi Mitsutaka , Kaneko Miwa , Oe Kazuho , Murakami Yoshiaki , Nagata Daisuke
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Constrictive pericarditis (CP) is characterized by impaired diastolic filling of the ventricles, which typically causes right heart failure. Its diagnosis may be challenging because it mimics other disorders. Furthermore, prompt diagnosis and treatment are more crucial in cases of hemodialysis; otherwise, maintenance dialysis would be hampered by severe hypotension. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 53-year-old man on hemodialysis who developed CP with shock. His blood pressure was 55/30 mmHg at the time of hospitalization due to presyncope. He continued hemodialysis but with some difficulty. However, right pleural effusion persisted because of impaired fluid removal by hemodialysis. Despite such severe manifestations, the distinctive clinical features of CP were lacking. By carefully evaluating the time course of computed tomography images, progressive calcification in the pericardium emerged as a significant clue. Cardiac catheterization subsequently revealed a dip-and-plateau pattern of right ventricular pressure, which led to a definitive diagnosis of CP. Soon after the diagnosis, he underwent a successful surgery. Conclusion: An important finding was that, unlike calcific lesions in the general dialysis population, the patient’s calcific lesions were mostly confined to the pericardium and progressed on a monthly basis. Thus, the present case may provide deep insight into the diagnosis of CP and the management of hemodialysis patients with severe hypotension.
Cataract Surgery in Eyes with Microphthalmos and/or Uveal Coloboma
Authors: Wang Leyi , Wang Bozhao , Wang Ying , Wang Xin , Yang Hongling , Wu Ran , Cui Yan
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Cataract may cause severe visual impairment in eyes with microphthalmos and uveal coloboma. Despite their similarities, distinguishing between these conditions is crucial for cataract surgery. We aimed to compare complications, nucleus hardness, surgical strategies, and outcomes of cataract surgery between microphthalmos and uveal coloboma.
Methods: This retrospective comparative study included 19 eyes with microphthalmos and 20 with uveal coloboma. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data of eyes that underwent cataract surgery were analysed.
Results: MO eyes had lower high-hardness nucleus rates (P=0.002) than UC. The most common preoperative complications in the microphthalmos and uveal coloboma groups were glaucoma (37.5%) and retinal detachment (15.4%), respectively. No significant differences in the phacoemulsification (P=0.45) or intraocular lens implantation (P>0.99) rates between the two groups. Extracapsular cataract extraction was performed in five eyes (25%), and posterior capsular rupture was the most common surgical complication (15%) in the uveal coloboma group. Combined surgery was mainly used to deal with high or unstable intraocular pressure (77%) in the microphthalmos group versus posterior pars plana vitrectomy (85.71%) in the uveal coloboma group to treat vitreoretinal pathologies. Corrected distance visual acuity was significantly improved in both microphthalmos (P=0.0005) and uveal coloboma (P<0.001) groups, while intraocular pressure was decreased (P=0.03) in the microphthalmos group.
Conclusion: Eyes with microphthalmos and uveal coloboma exhibited distinct cataract grades and complications, necessitating varied surgical strategies; while cataract surgery has proven to be effective in improving the visual acuity in both groups. Our findings hold significant value for guiding clinical treatment decision-making.
Evaluation of the Relationship between CD44 Expression and Gleason Grade Among Prostate Adenocarcinoma and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: a cross-section study
Authors: Kianparsa Joben , Soltanipur Masood , Jalali Nadoushan Mohammadreza
Published: February 2025

Background: This study aimed to investigate the expression of cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44) in prostate adenocarcinoma (PAC) compared to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) to address the need for biomarkers that can aid in grading classification and prognosis. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the CD44 expression in the tissue samples of the PAC and BPH were examined with Hematoxylin & Eosin and immunohistochemistry methods. The Gleason scores and grades and percentage of CD44 expression for specimens were determined. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 23.0 software. Results: This study included 80 PAC and 83 BPH samples. The mean expression of CD44 in PAC samples was significantly lower than in BPH samples (28.59±14.84 vs 47.82±14.65, p < 0.001). A moderate to strong significant negative correlation was found between CD44 expression and total Gleason scores and Gleason grade groups (r: - 0.743, p < 0.001; r: - 0.732, p < 0.001, respectively). Ordinal logistic regression showed that lower CD44 expression was associated with higher odds of advanced disease (OR= 0.884, p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study highlights CD44 expression not only as a potential biomarker for PAC diagnosis but also potential guide to therapeutic decision-making. Patients exhibiting lower CD44 levels may require closer monitoring and more aggressive treatment strategies, while those with higher expression may be candidates for less intensive management. Overall, our findings advocate for further investigation into CD44 as a biomarker for prostate cancer aggressiveness, which could ultimately enhance personalized treatment approaches and improve the patient outcomes.
Unveiling a rare cause of dysphagia
Authors: Graça Ana Rita , Santos Luís , Gravito-Soares Marta , Gravito-Soares Elisa , Martins Gama João , Figueiredo Pedro Narra
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Malignant melanoma of the esophagus is an uncommon cause of dysphagia and accounts for only 0.1-0.2% of esophageal neoplasms. Diagnosis is based on esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) with biopsies and immunohistochemical analysis, the latter being crucial in the amelanocytic variant. Gastrointestinal melanomas are more invasive and comprise poorer prognosis than cutaneous melanomas. Case presentation: The authors present the case of a 70-year-old woman admitted to the emergency department for progressive dysphagia with 2 months of evolution. EGD revealed the presence of an extensive, eccentric lesion, occupying approximately ½ of the luminal circumference at the level of the distal esophagus with circumferential involvement of the esophagogastric junction and cardia. Thoracoabdominopelvic Computed Tomography (CT) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) showed signs of advanced disease. The initial endoscopic biopsies were inconclusive, and EGD was repeated with multiple biopsies directed at the most infiltrative areas, whose histopathological analysis with immunohistochemistry revealed neoplastic cells with marked nuclear positivity for SOX10 and cytoplasmic positivity for vimentin, MELAN A, and HMB45 with absence of melanin pigment, findings suggestive of esophagocardiac amelanocytic malignant melanoma. In a multidisciplinary team meeting, the neoplasm was deemed unresectable, and the proposal was for esophageal stent placement and palliative hormone therapy. Discussion: Primary amelanocytic malignant melanoma is an exceptionally rare neoplasm and an extremely uncommon cause of dysphagia. In this context, we present a compelling case study that underscores the rarity of this histological type, the importance of directing biopsies to the most suspicious areas of the lesion to increase diagnostic yield, the need for a high clinical suspicion, and the atypical endoscopic presentation associated with the amelanocytic subtype.
Genetic diagnosis of hyperoxaluria type 3 patients using haplotype analysis
Authors: Tavakoli Ataabadi Sadegh , Behi Leila , Mojbafan Marzieh , Hooman Nakysa
Published: February 2025

Introduction: An autosomal recessive hereditary disorder of the glyoxylate metabolism, primary hyperoxaluria (PH) causes an excess of oxalate to be formed in the body. Three genes have so far been found to cause the three forms of PH (I, II, and III) so far. 10% of PH patients are type III and are caused by a mutation in the HOGA1 gene. Pathogenic variants responsible for the disease have been identified in several populations. In the present study, we are going to genetically analyze 14 Iranian patients who are suspicious of being affected with PH III.
Methods: We studied 14 patients from 11 unrelated Iranian families with a clinical diagnosis of hyperoxaluria disease. The kidney stone was detected in all patients. All of them had high levels of creatinine and oxalate in their urine. Sanger sequencing of the HOGA1 gene was performed in all 14 patients. Next-generation sequencing ( NGS ) has also been performed on one patient who did not have any causative variants in the HOGA1 gene.
Results: We identified one homozygous likely pathogenic missense variant in the HOGA1 (c.266G>A).
Conclusion: This is the first report of analyzing the HOGA1 gene in Iranian patients suspicious of being affected with hyperoxaluria type III which can expand our knowledge about this gene and its mutations.
Evaluation of Patient Satisfaction and Quality of Life Using the BREAST-Q Questionnaire in Oncoplastic Breast-Conserving Surgery Techniques for Centrally Located Breast Cancer
Authors: Özgül Halit , Çelik Gülsah , Çakır Remzi Can , Çelik Ömer , Çelik Ali
Published: February 2025

Purpose:This study aimed to retrospectively compare the impact of Level-2 oncoplastic techniques—doughnut, lateral, vertical, and racket mastopexy—on patient satisfaction and quality of life in centrally located breast cancer surgery, using the BREAST-Q questionnaire.
Methods: This study included patients aged 18-65 who underwent oncoplastic surgery for centrally located breast tumors at a teaching hospital between January 2021 and August 2024. The BREAST-Q questionnaire, which assesses satisfaction with the breast, psychosocial well-being, and sexual health, was administered at least three months post-surgery and radiotherapy. Demographic and clinical data were collected from the patient records.
Results: Among the 142 patients included in the study, 90 underwent doughnut mastopexy, while 52 received other techniques. The BREAST-Q scores indicated higher satisfaction with breasts (92.28%), psychosocial well-being (87.41%), and sexual well-being (86.39%) in the doughnut mastopexy group compared to the other techniques (p < 0.001).
Conclusions: Donut mastopexy yielded better outcomes than other techniques, likely because of minimal scarring, reduced need for contralateral procedures, and improved aesthetic results. These findings suggest that this technique offers superior patient satisfaction for centrally located breast tumors.

Keywords :BREAST-Q, oncoplastic surgery, Doughnut mastopexy, satisfcation
Assessment of agro-morphological performance of twenty-four corn (Zea mays l.,) parent lines resistant to Striga hermonthica for determining hybrid parents
Authors: Annicet N'da Huges , Dofougo Konaté , Romaric1 Kouakou Kouakou , Laurent N’cho Achi , Lassina Fondio , Kouabenan Abo
Published: February 2025

The data available on the study of corn parental lines against weeds in Côte d'Ivoire is still limited. The principal objective of the present study was to assess the agro-morphological performance of those resistant to Striga hermonthica. Specifically, the objective was to as-certain the hybrid parents of twenty-four individuals from IITA under conditions of artificial Striga infestation. The trials were conducted at the CNRA research station in Ferkessédougou, located in northern Côte d'Ivoire. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with three replications. Nine CIMMYT/IBPGR were used. Analy-sis of variance revealed significant differences between the lines about the different agro-morphological traits. Hierarchical ascending classification (HAC) revealed variability structured into four groups of morphological diversity. Group 2 and Group 4, respectively, con-tained the earliest (FM = 57.93 +- 1.72 and 58.62 ± 3.15) and most productive (NER = 21.25 +- 4.57 and 13.70 +- 2.77) lines, which also exhibit very good emergence density (DL = 28.25 ± 5.13 and 25.00 +- 7.50). Group 3 contained the intermediate lines (FM = 61.50 +- 1.88; FF = 63.18 +- 2.64; NER = 10.81 +- 5.27; DL = 23.12 +- 8.09). Group 1 contained the late lines (FM = 66.50 +- 2.82; FF = 68 ± 0.00), which demonstrated reduced productivity (NER = 3.75 +- 1.76) and exhibit-ed a low emergence density (DL = 9.25 +- 10.25). Discriminant factor analysis (DFA) identified nine parental lines in groups 2 and 4 that exhibited favorable characteristics about early maturity and produc-tivity. These lines may be used as hybrid parents in a program de-signed to enhance corn productivity in Côte d'Ivoire.
UniASA: A Unified Generative Framework for Argument Structure Analysis
Authors: Bao Jianzhu , Jing Mohan , Dong Kuicai , Sun Aixin , Sun Yang , Xu Ruifeng
Published: February 2025

Argumentation is a fundamental human activity that involves reasoning and persuasion, which also serves as the basis for the development of AI systems capable of complex reasoning. In NLP, to better understand human argumentation, argument structure analysis aims to identify argument components, such as claims and premises, and their relations from free text. It encompasses a variety of divergent tasks, such as end-to-end argument mining, argument pair extraction, and argument quadruplet extraction. Existing methods are usually tailored to only one specific argument structure analysis task, overlooking the inherent connections among different tasks. We observe that the fundamental goal of these tasks is similar: identifying argument components and their interrelations. Motivated by this, we present a unified generative framework for argument structure analysis (UniASA). It can uniformly address multiple argument structure analysis tasks in a sequence-to-sequence manner. Further, we enhance UniASA with a multi-view learning strategy based on subtask decomposition. We conduct experiments on seven datasets across three tasks. The results indicate that UniASA can address these tasks uniformly and achieve performance that is either superior to or comparable with the previous state-of-the-art methods. Also, we show that UniASA can be effectively integrated with large language models, such as Llama, through fine-tuning or in-context learning.
The Astute and the Kindly Ones
Authors: Weber Marc Andree
Published: February 2025

Recently, epistemologists have been much concerned with the question of whether or not we have to revise our beliefs if there are people whose epistemic position is as good as ours and who disagree with us. The results of such considerations, whatever they are, are sometimes said to be restricted to domains in which, unlike in politics or law, the relevant agents are not under any pressure to act in accordance with their beliefs, have no deeply held ideological beliefs, or have no beliefs that stem from their particular aims or desires. In response to this, and with regard to the paradigmatic cases of politics and law, this article argues that there are no genuine political or legal disagreements: what we call a political or legal disagreement is either no disagreement at all but a mere clash of interest, or it is a an empirical, moral, or practical disagreement that is not genuinely political or legal. To the latter, epistemological insights apply; to the former, they do not.
Wittgenstein on Mathematics
Authors: Schroeder Severin
Published: February 2025

In response to Felix Mühlhölzer’s critical discussion of my book Wittgenstein on Mathematics (2021), I argue against his main objections, in particular his view that one shouldn’t even look for coherence in Wittgenstein’s philosophy of mathematics, and his claim that Wittgenstein’s insistence on the empirical applicability of mathematical concepts need not be taken seriously because in one passage it is prefaced by the words ‘I want to say’. I also correct a number of irksome misunderstandings in Mühlhölzer’s review. Repeatedly he ascribes to me a position that I merely present for discussion – and reject or qualify in the end. In particular, he wrongly ascribes to me the empiricist view that mathematical propositions are derived from experience. Some of Wittgenstein’s remarks seem to express such a view, so I discuss it but conclude that, some exceptions apart, it is untenable and also inconsistent with Wittgenstein’s key ideas about mathematical proof.
Gynoxys yasgolgensis (Asteraceae, Senecioneae): A new species from northern Peru
Authors: REVILLA ITALO , CORONEL-CASTRO ELVER , MEZA-MORI GERSON , GUERRA CARLOS A. AMASIFUEN
Published: February 2025

Gynoxys (Asteraceae) includes a great diversity of species inhabiting the South American Andes, from Venezuela to northern Argentina. This genus currently comprises 130 species, from which 65 have been recorded in Peru. In this study, we describe a new species, G. yasgolgensis from northern Peru. This species was found in the Yasgolga mountain range at 3,300–3,500 meters above sea level, in the jalcas and altimontane (Pluvial) yunga forest of the Yasgolca-Santa Lucía Private Conservation Area from the Montevideo district, at the Amazonas department. It seems to have a restricted distribution nearby this area. Gynoxys yasgolgensis is a shrub or tree, differentiated from other related species, such as G. oleifolia, G. revolutifolia and G. ferreyrae, by the presence of coriaceous leaves with revolute margins and the indumentum composed of simple trichomes. In addition, it has a densely corymbose synflorescence and capitula with 6–8 ray florets and 21 disc florets. Data concerning its distribution, ecology and conservation status are provided.
Three new species of Grias (Lecythidaceae) from Colombia and Ecuador
Authors: CORNEJO XAVIER , PRANCE GHILLEAN T.
Published: February 2025

Three new species of trees of Lecythidaceae are described for Colombia and Ecuador, Grias capparidastroides from the lowlands of the Cauca Department on the Pacific coast of Colombia, G. densiflora from the lowlands of the Antioquia Department in northwestern Colombia, and G. cryptica from Esmeraldas Province in northwestern Ecuador. The new species are formally described and illustrated, and their relationships with morphologically similar species are discussed.
Kalanchoe ×resendeana (Crassulaceae subfam. Cotyledonoideae), finally a name for one of the most popular single-, red-flowered horticultural hybrids made between K. blossfeldiana and K. glaucescens
Authors: SMITH GIDEON F.
Published: February 2025

Mass produced plants of Kalanchoe blossfeldiana (Crassulaceae subfam. Cotyledonoideae), or at least plants that contain genetic material of this species, are by far the most widely grown horticultural derivatives of the genus. Since the species entered the trade in, especially, indoor plants in the 1930s, superior material of K. blossfeldiana have been variously selected in Europe and the U.S.A., and the species additionally has been used in the production of intrageneric hybrids with desirable characters. Kalanchoe blossfeldiana × K. glaucescens is one such hybrid, which remains available and widely cultivated in several parts of the world. The name K. ×resendeana is here published for this hybrid, the first production of which dates back to at least the 1950s.
Two new species of Helvella (Helvellaceae, Pezizales) from Southwestern China
Authors: LI TAI-SHUN , YANG YAN-YAN , YU FENG-MING , LI CUI-JIN-YI , XU RONG-JU , YANG HU-HUA , ZHOU DE-QUN , ZHAO QI
Published: February 2025

Species of Helvella are widely distributed in the northern temperate zone, and there are currently at least 96 phylogenetic species in China. During an investigation of discomycetous diversity in Yunnan, China, four specimens of Helvella were collected and identified as two new species, Helvella kunmingensis and H. yongpingensis, based on morphological and molecular evidences. They are similar in cupulate to discoid, greyish black apothecium, with pubescence on the receptacle surface and a developed stipe. The asci of H. kunmingensis is narrower than that of H. yongpingensis. Phylogenetic analyses of multi-locus (ITS, nrLSU, tef-1α, and hsp90) indicated that they were not related, and H. yongpingensis was closely related to H. xiaohuipan, while H. kunmingensis was sister to H. orentitomentosa. Two new species are described, illustrated, and compared with the sibling and morphologically similar species in this paper.
On Minimizing Risk and Harm in the Use of Psychedelics
Authors: Evans Jules , Aixalà Marc , Anderson Brian T. , Brennan William , Bremler Rebecka , Breeksema Joost J. , Burback Lisa , Calder Abigail E. , Carhart‐Harris Robin L. , Cheung Katherine , Devenot Neşe , Gorman Ingmar , Greń Jakub , Hendricks Peter S. , Holoyda Brian , Jacobs Edward , Krecké Joy , Kruger Daniel J. , Luke David , Majić Tomislav , McGuire Amy L. , Mehtani Nicky J. , Mathai David S. , Nash Kristin , Noorani Tehseen , Palitsky Roman , Robinson Oliver C. , Simonsson Otto , Stahre Elin , van Elk Michiel , Yaden David B.
Published: February 2025

Objective

This article outlines recommendations from 30 psychedelic researchers on how to create a better psychedelic safety net.

Methods

A survey of 30 psychedelic researchers asked them to identify key critical research gaps around psychedelic harm and safety.

Results

The critical research gaps identified by the authors included defining the main types of psychedelic harm, the predictors of those harms, and the most effective way to treat those harms. They also call for better support for those experiencing post‐psychedelic difficulties, including better online information, peer support groups, affordable therapy, and psychiatric consultation and medication. Finally, the authors call for better funding to create a psychedelic safety net, and suggest psychedelic philanthropists, investors and companies could commit 1% of their investment in psychedelics into supporting safety measures such as research and support services.

Conclusions

The authors identify several practical steps to create a better psychedelic safety net and call for more funding to psychedelic safety measures such as research and support services.

Relevance to clinical practice

The authors outline important gaps in our knowledge around the safety and risk profile of psychedelic medicines and identify practical steps forward for researchers and clinical practitioners to make this promising field safer.
Are There Race‐Based Differences in Neuropsychological Test Performance and Psychological Symptom Endorsement Among Adults Diagnosed With ADHD?
Authors: Phillips Matthew S. , Leese Mira I. , Abalos Steven A. , Shapiro Greg , Bare Kailyn , Orleans Nevin A. , Durkin Nicole M. , Soble Jason R.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Prevalence rates of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) vary by several demographic factors, including sex, socioeconomic status, geographic region, and race/ethnicity, with higher rates seen among non‐Hispanic White children and adults compared to racially/ethnically minoritized individuals. This study investigated if similar race‐based differences exist in neurocognitive test performance and psychiatric/ADHD symptom reporting among groups in a demographically diverse sample.

Methods

Data from 491 adults with a confirmed diagnosis of ADHD were analyzed to assess for differences in broad neurocognitive domains (i.e., learning and memory, attention/working memory, processing speed, and executive functions), as well as on measures of mood and ADHD‐related symptomatology.

Results

Findings largely demonstrated comparable neurocognitive test performance and ADHD and psychiatric symptom endorsement across racial groups with a known diagnosis of ADHD.

Conclusions

Although prior research has consistently documented racial/ethnic disparities in rates of ADHD diagnosis, current results largely did not demonstrate neuropsychological performance‐based differences among demographically diverse patients diagnosed with ADHD.

Relevance to clinical practice

ADHD is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders in the U.S. and constitutes a large number of referrals for diagnostic evaluation. Despite disparities in rates of diagnosis among broad racial/ethnic groups, neuropsychological outcomes remain largely consistent among these groups.
A History of Patriotic Resistance Movements of Churchmen in Qolla Dega Damot Awrajja, 1936–1941
Authors: Ejigu Tesfaw Abebaw
Published: February 2025

The Italian occupation of Ethiopia was followed by firm resistance by the overall residents mainly churchmen. Henceforth, the resistance movement intensified due to the spiritual leaders’ never-ending efforts. Above all, without the active involvement of these religious leaders, Qolla Dega Damot Awrajja’s patriotic resistance movement was rendered invalid. The churchmen actively participated in the resistance activities, fighting for their nation’s liberation. Hence, even though their contributions to the 5-year patriotic resistance movement were not adequately documented, the churchmen of Gojjam, in general, and Qolla Dega Damot, in particular, played significant roles by actively participating in the armed conflict and acting as inner patriots for the evacuation of the fascist armies. This study therefore attempts to explore and record the roles played by churchmen in Ethiopia’s 1941 liberation from Italian rule. The sources were analyzed after various historical documents, both published and unpublished, were used.
Cardiac function and quality of life improvement with fasudil hydrochloride in patients with diabetes post-PCI: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yang Xuejia , Li Qian , Liu Yaning , Chen Ran , Liu Yanjing , Sun Chenghui , Kong Licha , Dong Qiuli
Published: February 2025

Objective

We assessed the efficacy of fasudil hydrochloride, a Rho-kinase inhibitor, as adjunct therapy for enhancing cardiac function, managing blood sugar, and improving quality of life in patients with diabetes who have coronary heart disease (CHD) and who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

We conducted a randomized controlled trial including 100 patients with diabetes and CHD who underwent PCI. Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group receiving fasudil hydrochloride plus standard therapy or a control group receiving standard therapy alone. Treatment outcomes were evaluated over 3 months, focusing on cardiac function, blood sugar levels, and quality of life across physical, social, activities of daily living, and psychological domains.

Results

The experimental group showed significant improvement in cardiac function and blood sugar control, compared with the control group. Additionally, quality of life scores were markedly higher for the experimental group in all evaluated domains.

Conclusions

Fasudil hydrochloride effectively targets endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, contributing to better cardiac performance and metabolic regulation. These effects translate into improved post-PCI quality of life for patients with diabetes and CHD. As an adjunct to standard PCI therapy, fasudil hydrochloride treatment offers a promising strategy for enhancing clinical outcomes in this high-risk patient population.
Effects of 0.01 mM strontium on human periodontal ligament stem cell osteogenic differentiation via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Sun Tongke , Ma Dan , Song Yang , Hu Jing , Yang Ziqing , Wang Xu , Zhang Jun
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Strontium (Sr2+) is a crucial trace element in humans, mainly present in the bones. We investigated the effects of Sr2+ on human periodontal ligament stem cell (hPDLSC) proliferation and osteogenesis and the relevant pathways.

Methods

hPDLSCs were harvested from extracted premolars and characterized by flow cytometry, then cultured and treated with various Sr2+ concentrations. Cell-counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assays were used to assess hPDLSC proliferation, with alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, Alizarin red S staining, and ALP activity assays used to analyze their osteogenic capacity. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blots were used to examine the expression levels of relevant factors, such as collagen I (COL-1), ALP, and Runx family transcription factor 2 (RUNX2). Moreover, tankyrase inhibitor XAV939 treatment was used to investigate the role of Sr2+ in the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Results

The hPDLSCs were successfully isolated and cultured in vitro. A 0.01 mM Sr2+ concentration significantly enhanced hPDLSC proliferation and osteogenic differentiation. However, XAV939-mediated inhibition of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway could reverse the Sr2+-induced osteogenic effects.

Conclusions

Sr2+ can enhance hPDLSC proliferation and osteogenesis by stimulating canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling, suggesting it may play a critical role in periodontal regeneration and has clinical application potential.
Linezolid and serotonin syndrome
Authors: Wali Haytham A.
Published: February 2025

Linezolid, a synthetic oxazolidinone antibiotic, is used to treat gram-positive bacterial infections, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Despite its efficacy, linezolid can cause serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal condition associated with excessive serotonin activity in the brain. This narrative review examined the pharmacological mechanisms of this interaction, particularly linezolid’s mild monoamine oxidase-inhibitory activity, which can trigger serotonin syndrome in combination with serotonergic drugs. Serotonin syndrome causes cognitive, autonomic, and somatic symptoms ranging from mild (tremors, diarrhea) to severe (hyperthermia, seizures, multiorgan failure). The Hunter Serotonin Toxicity Criteria have superior sensitivity and specificity over the Sternbach Criteria for diagnosis. Clinical evidence indicates that although the incidence of linezolid-induced serotonin syndrome is low, the risk justifies careful monitoring and risk assessment. This review emphasizes enhanced pharmacovigilance and standardized reporting criteria to better capture and analyze data on linezolid-induced serotonin syndrome. Assessments of the pharmacological mechanisms, large-scale clinical trials, and cohort studies are essential to elucidate risk factors and outcomes. Developing comprehensive clinical guidelines and education programs for healthcare providers is crucial to improve linezolid’s safety profile. Exploring pharmacogenomic approaches and alternative therapies with lower serotonin syndrome risks is recommended to enhance patient outcomes while maintaining linezolid’s efficacy in treating severe bacterial infections.
Investigation on flow and cavitation characteristics in flow channel of multistage depressurization valve
Authors: Jiongming Zhang , Haozhe Jin , Chao Wang , Xiaofei Liu
Published: February 2025

The multistage depressurization valve is extensively employed in nuclear power plants under high-pressure conditions, where cavitation failure often occurs during the passage of high-speed fluid through the valve. This article utilizes the Schnerr and Sauer cavitation model along with the realizable k– ε turbulent model to examine the internal flow and cavitation characteristics. The findings reveal that as fluid traverses the multistage channel, enhanced mixing processes and vortex structures emerge. Hedging and vortex dissipation significantly influence pressure reduction and energy dissipation within the flow channel. At the outlet of the final stage of depressurization, pressure rapidly decreases below the saturated vapor pressure, leading to the formation of cavitation. Due to the higher velocity at this position, the impact wear on the valve body is intensified. Therefore, increasing the outlet pressure of the valve proves effective in mitigating cavitation damage.
Modeling the ratio of correlated biomarkers using copula regression
Authors: Berger Moritz , Klein Nadja , Wagner Michael , Schmid Matthias
Published: February 2025

Modeling the ratio of two dependent components as a function of covariates is a frequently pursued objective in observational research. Despite the high relevance of this topic in medical studies, where biomarker ratios are often used as surrogate endpoints for specific diseases, existing models are commonly based on oversimplified assumptions, assuming e.g. independence or strictly positive associations between the components. In this paper, we overcome such limitations and propose a regression model where the marginal distributions of the two components are linked by a copula. A key feature of our model is that it allows for both positive and negative associations between the components, with one of the model parameters being directly interpretable in terms of Kendall’s rank correlation coefficient. We study our method theoretically, evaluate finite sample properties in a simulation study and demonstrate its efficacy in an application to diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease via ratios of amyloid-beta and total tau protein biomarkers.