bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Deep Learning Based Dual Watermarking System for Securing Healthcare Data
Authors: Singh Kumari Suniti , Singh Harsh Vikram
Published: January 2025

The sharing of patient information on an open network has drawn attention to the healthcare system. Security is the primary issue while sharing documents online. Thus, a dual watermarking technique has been developed to improve the security of shared data. The classical watermarking schemes are resilient to many attacks. Protecting the authenticity and copyrights of medical images is essential to prevent duplication, modification, or unauthorized distribution. This paper proposes a robust, novel dual watermarking system for securing healthcare data. Initially, watermarking is performed based on redundant lifting wavelet transform (LWT) and turbo code decomposition for COVID‐19 patient images and patient text data. To achieve a high level of authenticity, watermarks in the form of encoded text data and decomposed watermark images are inserted together, and an inverse LWT is used to generate an initial watermarked image. Improve imperceptibility and robustness by incorporating the cover image into the watermarked image. Cross‐guided bilateral filtering (CG_BF) improves cover image quality, while the integrated Walsh–Hadamard transform (IWHT) extracts features. The novel adaptive coati optimization (ACO) technique is used to identify the ideal location for the watermarked image in the cover image. To improve security, the watermarked image is dissected using discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and encrypted with a chaotic extended logistic system. Finally, the encrypted watermarked image is implanted in the desired place using a novel deep‐learning model based on the Hybrid Convolutional Cascaded Capsule Network (HC3Net). Thus, the secured watermarked image is obtained, and the watermark and text data are extracted using the decryption and inverse DWT procedure. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated using accuracy, peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR), NC, and other metrics. The proposed method achieved an accuracy of 99.26%, which is greater than the existing methods.
An Automated Recommendation System for Crowdsourcing Data Using Improved Heuristic‐Aided Residual Long Short‐Term Memory
Authors: Dhinakaran K. , Nedunchelian R.
Published: January 2025

In recent years, crowdsourcing has developed into a business production paradigm and a distributed problem‐solving platform. However, the conventional machine learning models failed to assist both requesters and workers in finding the proper jobs that affect better quality outputs. The traditional large‐scale crowdsourcing systems typically involve a lot of microtasks, and it requires more time for a crowdworker to search a work on this platform. Thus, task suggestion methods are more useful. Yet, the traditional approaches do not consider the cold‐start issue. To tackle these issues, in this paper, a new recommendation system for crowdsourcing data is implemented utilizing deep learning. Initially, from the standard online sources, the crowdsourced data are accumulated. The novelty of the model is to propose an adaptive residual long short‐term memory (ARes‐LSTM) that learns the task's latent factor via the task features rather than the task ID. Here, this network's parameters are optimized by the fitness‐based drawer algorithm (F‐DA) to improve the efficacy rates. Further, the suggested ARes‐LSTM is adopted to detect the user's preference score based on the user's historical behaviors. According to the historical behavior records of the users and task features, the ARes‐LSTM provides personalized task recommendations and rectifies the issue of cold‐start. From the outcomes, the better accuracy rate of the implemented model is 91.42857. Consequently, the accuracy rate of the traditional techniques such as AOA, TSA, BBRO, and DA is attained as 84.07, 85.42, 87.07, and 90.07. Finally, the simulation of the implemented recommendation system is conducted with various traditional techniques with standard efficiency metrics to show the supremacy of the designed recommendation system. Thus, it is proved that the developed recommendation system for the crowdsourcing data model chooses intended tasks based on individual preferences that can help to enlarge the number of chances to engage in crowdsourcing efforts across a broad range of platforms.
The driving‐related attitudes, beliefs and behaviours of cannabis users in the Australian Capital Territory following decriminalisation
Authors: McCartney Danielle , Zhou Cilla , Lavender Isobel , Gordon Rebecca , Kevin Richard C. , Bedoya‐Pérez Miguel , McGregor Iain S.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In January 2020, the government of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) decriminalised the possession and cultivation of cannabis for personal use. This study explored the driving‐related attitudes, beliefs and behaviours of ACT residents who are legally cultivating and consuming cannabis.

Methods

A two‐part cross‐sectional study was conducted. Part‐1: Cannabis users residing in the ACT were invited to complete an online survey. Part‐2: Survey respondents who reported ‘currently growing’ cannabis were invited to submit a sample of their home‐grown cannabis for phytocannabinoid analysis. Data from Parts 1 and 2 were used to estimate participants' usual Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) intakes.

Results

N = 385 cannabis users completed all or part of the online survey and N = 52 submitted cannabis samples for phytocannabinoid analysis. Most participants (N = 224/330; 67.9%) reported waiting ≥7 h following cannabis use before driving. However, 21.5% (N = 71/330) reported waiting ≤3 h. These individuals had the highest cannabis and THC intakes of the sample (where known). Further analyses revealed that individuals who expressed less concern about roadside drug testing and the effects of non‐medicinal and medicinal cannabis on driving, and who used cannabis more frequently, in larger amounts, and exclusively for non‐medicinal purposes were more likely to report shorter ‘wait times’.

Discussion and Conclusion

A small proportion of cannabis users in the ACT appear to be driving shortly (i.e., ≤3 h) after consuming considerable quantities of cannabis and THC. This behaviour puts them at risk of driving while impaired and incurring legal sanctions. Interventions alerting these individuals to these possible risks are, therefore, warranted.
A “Golden Moment” for Soils and Society Presents Challenges and Opportunities for Soil Science
Authors: Groffman Peter M.
Published: January 2025

We appear to be at a shining moment for interactions between soils and society. Popular interest in soils has increased along with interests in urban gardening, carbon sequestration, recognition of the vast biodiversity in soils, and the realisation that soils are a finite resource whose degradation has serious consequences. This increase in interest creates both opportunities and challenges for soil science. While there is great potential for increasing the diversity of people involved with soil science, key scientific and communication challenges need to be addressed for interactions between soils and society to be useful and productive. Here, I present case study issues on the mechanisms and limitations of carbon sequestration in soils and the need to restore and/or create new soils for specific uses, including urban agriculture and green infrastructure, to illustrate the opportunities and challenges associated with new societal interest in soil science. Addressing these issues requires advances in both basic and applied science, new participatory approaches to the design, execution, and interpretation of research, collaboration with multiple disciplines, including the social sciences, and improvements in the two‐way flow of information between science and society. Careful attention to these issues will attract new people to soil science, advance awareness of the importance of and threats to soils across the globe, and produce improvements in the quality of life for diverse human populations.
The FEBS Journal in 2025: in all science, error precedes the truth
Authors: Martin Seamus J.
Published: January 2025

The FEBS Journal publishes primary papers as well as reviews in the molecular life sciences relating to the molecules and mechanisms underpinning biological processes. Editor‐in‐Chief Seamus Martin shares some thoughts on the nature of conducting research, some highlights of the past year at the journal, and what is in store for 2025.
Paratesticular/inguinal SMARCB1/INI1 deficient carcinomas with yolk sac tumour‐like differentiation are aggressive somatic malignancies
Authors: Kosemehmetoglu Kemal , Katipoglu Kubra , Brundler Marie‐Anne , Trpkov Kiril , Yilmaz Asli
Published: January 2025

Aims

Extragonadal yolk sac tumour (YST) is rare, and may present a diagnostic challenge. YST differentiation was recently reported in some somatically derived tumours in the sinonasal location and in the female genital tract, together with a SMARCB1/INI1 loss. We report two paratesticular/inguinal tumours with striking morphological and immunohistochemical similarities with YST, further expanding the spectrum of extragonadal tumours with YST‐like morphology and SMARCB1/INI1 loss.

Methods and results

Patients were 13‐ and 27‐year‐old males who presented with a 1‐cm inguinal mass and a 4.6‐cm spermatic cord mass, respectively. Both neoplasms showed histological and immunohistochemical features in keeping with YST. Immunohistochemically, the neoplastic cells were diffusely positive for AE1/AE3, spalt‐like transcription factor 4 (SALL4) and glypican‐3; alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) was positive in one of two tumours. S100, SMA, CD34 and brachyury were negative in both tumours. Pre‐operative serum AFP levels were normal in both patients. Although the initial diagnostic consideration was extragonadal YST, the diagnostic work‐up revealed complete loss of SMARCB1/INI1 on immunohistochemistry and absence of isochromosome 12p by fluorescence in‐situ hybridisation. Both patients had an aggressive clinical course with rapid disease progression and widespread metastatic spread.

Conclusions

Somatically derived tumours with YST‐like morphology at an extragonadal location present a potential diagnostic pitfall. This type of neoplasm has not been previously reported in males at this location. Therefore, SMARCB1/INI1 should be included in the immunohistochemistry work‐up of any neoplasm that morphologically resembles YST at an extragonadal site, even in the setting of positive germ cell tumour markers, as the correct diagnosis has prognostic and therapeutic implications.
Fatigue durability of an environmental barrier coating–coated two‐dimensional woven SiC/SiC composite at elevated temperatures in a steam environment
Authors: Bhatt R. T. , Kalluri S. , Lee K. N. , Stuckner J.
Published: January 2025

Sustained‐peak low‐cycle fatigue tests in a steam environment were conducted on uncoated and environmental‐barrier‐coated SiC‐fiber‐reinforced SiC‐matrix (SiC/SiC) composites at 1204 and 1315°C with an R ratio of 0.5 at maximum stresses from 69 to 138 MPa for up to 500‐h run‐out or failure. The composites were fabricated by the melt‐infiltration process and contained Sylramic‐iBN SiC fibers. The run‐out specimens were tensile tested at room temperature to measure residual tensile properties. Computed tomography, microstructural analysis, and fractography of the failed specimens were conducted. Results indicate that at a constant temperature and stress, mechanical cycling causes environmental barrier coating (EBC) damage with increasing exposure time. Moreover, at a fixed exposure time and stress, damage increases with increasing temperature. Breaching of the EBC followed by moisture‐assisted damage and crack growth within the SiC/SiC substrate dictates durability of EBC SiC/SiC composites. The damage and failure mechanisms of the composites are discussed.
Unpacking vulnerability among migrant minors in the EU: A case study of vulnerability among migrant minors in Spain
Authors: de Lorenzo Gilsanz Francisco Javier , Flores Martos Raúl , Mora Rosado Sebastián
Published: January 2025

This article focuses on the study of the specific social vulnerability of migrant minors during their arrival and the corresponding integration processes in the host countries. The analysis focuses on identifying risks of social vulnerability using a conceptual framework based on the notion of social exclusion. Using a multidimensional, processual approach, the construction of vulnerability in households with migrant minors is analysed in comparison with households with non‐migrant minors (in the EU, using Spain as a case study). Despite having an intermediate‐level mean income, and despite economic development in the country, Spain has seen a re‐emergence of child poverty that has had a significant impact on households with minors. The lack of targeted programmes and low levels of investment contributes to one in four minors living below the at‐risk‐of‐poverty line. The economic crisis of 2008 and the COVID‐19 pandemic have worsened the situation, especially in households with migrant minors.
Six‐principal‐component high‐entropy IVB–VB diborides: Low‐temperature synthesis, microwave absorption, and mechanisms
Authors: Liu Jianghao , Liu Delei , Gu Junfeng , Zhang Haijun , Huang Liang , Huang Zhong , Zhang Shaowei
Published: January 2025

Owing to their outstanding performances significantly superior to that of the low‐ and medium‐entropy counterparts, high‐entropy diborides attracted extensive attention. Nevertheless, the rising configuration entropy of high‐entropy diborides rendered not only the better performances but also the greater formation difficulty due to the strengthened sluggish‐diffusion effect. Herein, high‐entropy (Hf0.167Zr0.167Ti0.167Ta0.167Nb0.167V0.167)B2, as the first reported six‐principal‐component high‐entropy IVB–VB transition‐metal diborides, was successfully synthesized by a microwave and molten‐salt co‐assisted thermal‐reduction method, under the temperature conditions (1400°C/20 min) remarkably milder than that required by the conventional method for synthesizing high‐entropy diborides. More importantly, the as‐synthesized high‐entropy diboride powders exhibited high composition uniformity, single‐crystalline nature and hexagon‐platelet‐like morphology. Furthermore, the high microwave absorption performance of high‐entropy (Hf0.167Zr0.167Ti0.167Ta0.167Nb0.167V0.167)B2 was demonstrated to be favorable for enhancing its synthesis and self‐assembly by producing a unique micro‐zone hot‐spot effect. This research was predicted to promote the development of synthetic technique and dramatically expand the membership of high‐entropy materials.
Enhancing electrical properties in CaMnO3‐based ceramics: The impact of single doping with different elements
Authors: Amirkhizi P. , Madre M. A. , Constantinescu G. , Torres M. A. , Sotelo A. , Kovalevsky A. V. , Rasekh Sh.
Published: January 2025

This study explores the effect of single doping with different rare earth elements (Y, La, and Yb) on the structural, morphological and electrical properties of CaMnO3 bulk ceramics, aiming to improve their thermoelectric performance. Ca(1‐x)RxMnO3 (R = Y, La, Yb; x = 0, 0.05, 0.10) samples were synthesized via a solid‐state reaction. XRD analysis confirmed the thermoelectric CaMnO3 phase as the major one, with orthorhombic perovskite structure. Small amounts of secondary phases (CaMn2O4 and Mn2O3) were also detected in some doped samples. The addition of dopants influenced the unit cell parameters, producing a shift to lower 2θ angles, confirming their incorporation into the ceramic structure. SEM micrographs revealed a significant reduction in grain size upon doping. Electrical resistivity measurements showed a metallic behavior for all doped samples. The Y‐doped samples exhibited the highest resistivity values while the Yb‐doped samples showed the lowest values (6.8 mΩ cm for the 0.10 doped one), which are among the lowest found in literature for this compound. The Seebeck coefficient values show minor changes for 0.05 doped samples when they decreased with increasing concentration of dopant. Consequently, the highest values were observed for 0.05‐doped sample (−215 µV/K), independently of the dopant. This value is much higher than the ones typically reported in the literature. The highest value of the power factor was calculated for the 0.05 Yb doped sample, reaching approximately 0.56 mW/K2·m at 800°C. This value is higher than the best presented in the literature for this compound, to the best of our knowledge, and suggests that Yb3+ doping greatly enhances the high‐temperature thermoelectric performance of bulk CaMnO3 ceramics, making it a promising dopant for high‐efficiency thermoelectric materials.
You're (Not) My Type‐ Can LLMs Generate Feedback of Specific Types for Introductory Programming Tasks?
Authors: Lohr Dominic , Keuning Hieke , Kiesler Natalie
Published: January 2025

Background

Feedback as one of the most influential factors for learning has been subject to a great body of research. It plays a key role in the development of educational technology systems and is traditionally rooted in deterministic feedback defined by experts and their experience. However, with the rise of generative AI and especially large language models (LLMs), we expect feedback as part of learning systems to transform, especially for the context of programming. In the past, it was challenging to automate feedback for learners of programming. LLMs may create new possibilities to provide richer, and more individual feedback than ever before.

Objectives

This article aims to generate specific types of feedback for introductory programming tasks using LLMs. We revisit existing feedback taxonomies to capture the specifics of the generated feedback, such as randomness, uncertainty and degrees of variation.

Methods

We iteratively designed prompts for the generation of specific feedback types (as part of existing feedback taxonomies) in response to authentic student programs. We then evaluated the generated output and determined to what extent it reflected certain feedback types.

Results and Conclusion

This study provides a better understanding of different feedback dimensions and characteristics. The results have implications for future feedback research with regard to, for example, feedback effects and learners' informational needs. It further provides a basis for the development of new tools and learning systems for novice programmers including feedback generated by AI.
Effects of high‐intensity interval walking training on muscle strength, walking ability, and health‐related quality of life in people with diabetes accompanied by lower extremity weakness: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ichihara Yasuko , Mori Hiroyasu , Kamada Motomu , Matsuura Tetsuya , Sairyo Koichi , Hyodo Mizusa , Tsutsumi Rie , Sakaue Hiroshi , Aihara Ken‐ichi , Funaki Makoto , Kuroda Akio , Matsuhisa Munehide
Published: January 2025

Aims/Introduction

This study examined the effects of high‐intensity interval walking training (IWT) compared to moderate‐intensity continuous walking training (CWT) on muscle strength, walking ability, and health‐related quality of life (QOL) in people with diabetes accompanied by lower extremity weakness.

Materials and Methods

People with diabetes accompanied by low isometric knee extensor strength using a simple manual dynamometer (n = 50) were screened and randomly divided into 2 groups: CWT (n = 25) and IWT (n = 25). Both groups were instructed by a physical therapist to perform walking training with the goal of 120 min/week over a 5‐month period. The primary outcome, mean change of isometric knee extensor strength, and secondary outcomes, such as gait speed and health‐related QOL, were measured at baseline and the end of the intervention.

Results

At the end of the intervention, there was no significant difference in the degree of change in isometric knee extension strength between the two groups. However, there was a significant increase in changes in gait speed and physical QOL in the IWT group (gait speed, P < 0.01; physical QOL, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The present study showed that IWT for people with diabetes accompanied by lower extremity weakness did not improve knee extension muscle strength compared to CWT but did improve walking ability and physical QOL.
Early development of vertebral column and appendicular skeleton in Naozhou Larimichthys crocea (Richardson, 1846)
Authors: Liu Bo‐Wen , Guo Hua‐Yang , Liu Bao‐Suo , Zhang Nan , Zhu Ke‐Cheng , Yan Kuo‐Qiu , Qin Hai‐Peng , Zhang Dian‐Chang , Sun Jin‐Hui
Published: January 2025

Understanding the developmental sequence characteristics of the vertebral and appendicular skeletons of the larvae and juveniles of Larimichthys crocea (Naozhou population) can provide theoretical basis for seedling cultivation, environmental adaptation, and taxonomic identification. The cartilage‐bone double staining method was used to stain, observe, and analyse the vertebrae, pectoral fins, anal fins, caudal fins, and dorsal fins of the larvae and juveniles of L. crocea (0–30 days post‐hatching [DPH]). Results showed that the notochord of the larvae and juveniles of L. crocea was tubular. At 6 DPH, there was obvious segmentation. At 8 DPH, the neural arches began to differentiate, and at 10 DPH, the haemal arches began to differentiate, with complete segmentation of the notochord. At 14 DPH, the dorsal and ventral ribs became clear, and the neural and haemal spines were completely formed by the elongation of the neural and haemal arches, respectively. At 18 DPH, the vertebral bones began to ossify, and ossification was complete at 28 DPH. The median fins of the larvae and juveniles of L. crocea formed in the order of caudal fin, anal fin, and dorsal fin. Among the 800 L. crocea larvae samples, 248 were observed to have skeletal deformities, with a deformity rate of 31.00%. The spine of L. crocea consists of 26 vertebrae, with developmental abnormalities mainly including vertebral anterior convexity, bifurcation of neural spines, vertebral body fusion, and redundancy of neural spines. The above results provide a theoretical basis for enriching the developmental biology of L. crocea.
Identification of Potentially Novel Mycobacterium Spp. In Freshwater Ornamental Fish in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Blake Lemar , Jordan Arianne Brown , Nicholls Soren , Soto Esteban , Iwanowicz Luke , Suepaul Rod , Oura Christopher , Phillips Savage Ayanna Carla N.
Published: January 2025

Potentially zoonotic Mycobacterium spp. are impacting freshwater ornamental fish in Trinidad and Tobago. Clinical cases presented at the Aquatic Animal Health Unit of The University of the West Indies, School of Veterinary Medicine, from September 2011 to September 2018 indicated the presence of piscine mycobacteriosis in freshwater ornamental fish from locations throughout Trinidad and Tobago. Subsequently, an investigation was conducted from June 2018 to December 2021 to identify the specific Mycobacterium spp. involved. Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify and later sequence the 723 bp of the rpoB. Analysis of region V of the rpoB offers similar discriminatory power as concatenation or whole genome analysis of Mycobacterium spp., and serves as an acceptable method for differentiating and discriminating between species in this genus. With respect to tank‐reared freshwater ornamental fish, this study identified M. fortuitum (98.8% identity), M. liflandii (100% identity), M. stomatepiae (97.2% identity), M. pseudoshottsii related (96.9% identity), two M. stomatepiae related (95.4% and 96.7% identity), M. immunogenum related (93.4% identity), and 17 M. insubricum related (91.4%–95.2% identity). Additionally, seven mycobacteria related to M. insubricum were identified in wild‐caught guppies. These findings suggest that both known, and potentially novel Mycobacterium spp. are circulating, and adversely impacting the local populations of freshwater ornamental fish in Trinidad and Tobago.
Emotional Eating Interventions for Adults Living With Overweight and Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Behaviour Change Techniques
Authors: Power D. , Jones A. , Keyworth C. , Dhir P. , Griffiths A. , Shepherd K. , Smith J. , Traviss‐Turner G. , Matu J. , Ells L.
Published: January 2025

Background

Emotional eating (EE) is a barrier to the long‐term success of weight loss interventions. Psychological interventions targeting EE have been shown to reduce EE scores and weight (kg), though the mechanisms remain unclear. This review and meta‐analysis aimed to identify the specific behaviour change techniques (BCTs) associated with improved outcomes.

Methods

This is a review update and extension, with new studies extracted from searches of CINAHL, PsycINFO, MEDLINE and EMBASE 1 January 2022 to 31 April 2023. EE interventions for adults with BMI > 25 kg/m2 were considered for inclusion. Paper screening, extraction, BCT‐coding and risk of bias were completed using the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist, Behaviour Change Taxonomy v1 (BCTTv1) and Risk of Bias2 (RoB2)/Risk of Bias In Non‐randomised Studies (ROBINS‐I) tool. Narrative syntheses and random effects multi‐level meta‐analyses were conducted.

Results

In total, 6729 participants were included across 47 studies (13 identified in the update). Forty‐two studies contributed to the pooled estimate for the impact of interventions on EE (SMD = −0.99 [95% CI: −0.73 to −1.25], p < 0.001). Thirty‐two studies contributed to the pooled estimate for the impact of interventions on weight (−4.09 kg [95% CI: −2.76 to −5.43 kg], p < 0.001). Five BCTs related to identity, values and self‐regulation were associated with notable improvements to both weight and EE (‘incompatible beliefs’, ‘goal setting outcome’. ‘review outcome goals’, ‘feedback on behaviour’ and ‘pros/cons’).

Conclusion

Implementation and evaluation of the highlighted BCTs are required. Weight management services should consider screening patients for EE to tailor interventions to individual needs.
Unlocking the Vitamin Puzzle: Investigating Levels in People With Alzheimer's Disease Versus Healthy Controls Through Systematic Review and Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Marwaha Sagar , Agarwal Rachna , Tripathi Manjari , Tripathi Shashank
Published: January 2025

The progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is intricately tied to the impairment of neurons, crucial for neurological functions. Despite extensive research, the precise mechanism underlying AD development remains elusive due to its multifaceted aetiology. Vitamin deficiency has emerged as a notable contributor to AD onset and progression, exerting a significant influence on brain function. To explore this link, we conducted a thorough review using PubMed, Web of Science and MEDLINE databases to gather literature on average vitamin concentrations in people with AD and healthy controls. Applying frequentist network meta‐analysis techniques, we calculated standardised mean differences (SMDs) in vitamin concentrations between AD and control groups, both directly and indirectly. Our analysis, based on 67 articles, revealed statistically significant findings for various vitamins. Notably, vitamin C displayed the most substantial difference in average concentration between AD and control groups, supported by a high p‐score of 0.92. Other vitamins that showed significant differences included vitamin D, folate, vitamin E, vitamin A and vitamin B12. Moreover, by considering alternative reference groups of vitamins, we derived indirect estimates, which further emphasised the role of vitamins in AD pathology. The ranking of vitamins based on their discrepancy in concentration between AD and control groups underscored the importance of vitamin C, followed by vitamin D, vitamin E, folate, vitamin A and vitamin B12. In conclusion, our comprehensive analysis highlights the potential significance of vitamin levels in understanding AD pathology. This underscores avenues for further research and potential therapeutic interventions targeting vitamin deficiencies in people with AD, potentially offering new strategies for managing the disease.

Trial Registration: CRD42023447203
A Cohort Clinical Study on the Efficacy of Topical Salicylic Acid/Piroctone Olamine Dandruff Pre‐Gel and Cleanser in Improving Symptoms of Moderate to Severe Seborrheic Dermatitis of the Scalp
Authors: Ge Ling , Liu Zhiqing , Xu Shanhua , Li Chuying , Jin Meitong , Luo Yinli , Kong Yanli , Meng Jingbi , Zheng Ge , Gao Junzhi , Wang Ping , Bai Wei , Na Heya , Zhou Xianchun , Jin Zhehu , Pi Longquan
Published: January 2025

Background

Scalp seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory skin condition associated with scalp sebum secretion and dysbiosis.

Aims

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a topical salicylic acid/piroctone olamine/zinc salt of L‐pyrrolidone carboxylate (Zinc PCA) scalp pre‐application gel in combination with a salicylic acid/piroctone olamine/antimicrobial peptide cleansing lotion for the treatment of moderate to severe scalp SD.

Patients/Methods

In this prospective cohort study, 20 patients with moderate to severe scalp SD were treated with a combination of the scalp pre‐application gel and cleansing lotion for 4 weeks (one tube of the pre‐application gel per week and the cleansing lotion used every 1–3 days depending on the frequency of hair washing). This was followed by maintenance treatment with the cleansing lotion for 12 weeks. Efficacy was assessed through clinical and trichoscopic examinations, measuring the severity of dandruff, itching, erythema, and greasiness using a 4‐point scale.

Results

This cohort study included a total of 20 patients with moderate to severe scalp SD. By the 4th week, the average dandruff score had significantly decreased from a baseline of 2.45 to 1.10 (p < 0.01). The average itchiness score reduced from 2.35 to 1.10 (p < 0.01), the erythema score dropped from 1.55 to 1.10 (p < 0.05), and the greasiness score decreased from 2.60 to 1.40 (p < 0.01). After 16 weeks, 12 patients with severe SD improved to mild SD, and six patients with moderate SD also improved to mild. During the treatment, two patients experienced a recurrence of dandruff, which subsequently resolved. The overall clinical improvement was 80%.

Conclusions

Our study results indicate that the combination treatment of the scalp pre‐application gel and cleansing lotion is highly effective and safe for treating SD. The subsequent use of the cleansing lotion effectively maintains the benefits of the combined treatment. Trichoscopic examination provides accurate and reliable quantifiable data, aiding in the monitoring of treatment progress.
Head and Neck Rhabdomyosarcoma in Pediatric Patients: An International Collaborative Study
Authors: Gallagher Karen Patricia Domínguez , Hunter Keith D. , Arboleda Lady Paola Aristizabal , Pedroso Caique Mariano , Mariz Bruno Augusto Linhares Almeida , Penafort Paulo Victor Mendes , Souza Lucas Lacerda de , Rodrigues‐Fernandes Carla Isabelly , Tager Elena María José Roman , Carlos Roman , Robinson Liam , Schouwstra Ciska‐Mari , Villanueva‐Sánchez Francisco Germán , Gómez Francisco José Paz , del Carmen González‐Galván María , Martins‐de‐Barros Allan Vinícius , de Vasconcelos Carvalho Marianne , Cavalcante Roberta Barroso , Turatti Eveline , Pontes Hélder Antônio Rebelo , Siqueira Sheila Aparecida Coelho , Mendonça Regina Maria Holanda de , Innocentini Lara Maria Alencar Ramos , de Macedo Leandro Dorigan , Ribeiro‐Silva Alfredo , Abrahão Aline Corrêa , Romañach Mário José , van Heerden Willie , Vargas Pablo Agustin , Santos‐Silva Alan Roger
Published: January 2025

Background

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), a rare malignant tumor, frequently affects pediatric patients, with 35%–40% occurring in the head and neck. This study analyzes the clinicopathologic profile of pediatric head and neck rhabdomyosarcomas from Brazil, Guatemala, Mexico, and South Africa.

Methods

We reviewed 44 cases from 10 Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology services, conducting immunohistochemical analyses of desmin, myogenin, Myo‐D1, and Ki67, with quantification via QuPath software. Cases with ≥ 50% myogenin expression were tested for fusion status using AP2β, NOS‐1, and HMGA2. Statistical analyses included the Kruskal–Wallis test for age and marker expression comparisons, Fisher's exact test for categorical variables, Spearman's rank correlation for marker relationships, and multinomial logistic regression to assess fusion status likelihood.

Results

Cases were predominantly from Brazil (40.9%), followed by South Africa (27.3%), Guatemala (22.7%), and Mexico (9.1%). Two‐thirds of patients were diagnosed in their first decade with no gender predilection. Nonparameningeal sites (45.5%) were more affected than parameningeal (40.9%) and orbital sites. Microscopically, embryonal RMS (77.3%) was most common, followed by alveolar (18.2%) and spindle cell (2.3%) tumors. Immunohistochemistry revealed positivity for myogenic markers, with significant differences in myogenin expression between embryonal and alveolar RMS variants (p < 0.05). Fusion status prediction identified two potential fusion‐positive alveolar RMS cases, while all embryonal RMS and one alveolar RMS case appeared fusion‐negative. Significant correlation with positive fusion status was found only between AP2β and NOS1 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Although there are slight clinical‐demographic variations among pediatric head and neck rhabdomyosarcomas in these regions, identifying fusion status through immunohistochemistry remains a diagnostic challenge.
The impact of retraction cords on the gingival margin level: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Fouad Majdoleen , Mahmoud Ahmad Abel Aziz , Al‐Rabab'ah Mohammad , Kasabreh Najla
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To examine the impact of placing plain and impregnated retraction cords for two different retraction times on the postoperative gingival margin level and periodontal health.

Materials and Methods

A total of 40 endodontically treated mandibular first molars were selected and randomly allocated into four groups (n = 10/group); A: plain retraction cord for 10 min, B: plain retraction cord, 20 min, C: impregnated (25% aluminum chloride (AlCl3) retraction cord, 10 min, D: impregnated retraction cord (25% AlCl3), 20 min. Intraoral digital scans were acquired, and periodontal parameters (Plaque index [PI], Bleeding on probing [BOP], and probing depth [PD]) were assessed at baseline, 7 days, and 28 days after retraction. The digital scans were superimposed to measure the change in the mid‐buccal gingival margin level. Statistical differences between groups at the threetime points were tested using one‐way ANOVA and Chi‐square tests (α = 0.05).

Results

AlCl3‐impregnated retraction cord for 20 min resulted in a statistically significant change in gingival margin level than limiting its application to 10 min or using plain cords at the three‐time points (p < 0.05) with 88 ± 4 µm gingival recession after 28 days. The assessed periodontal parameters only showed a significant difference between groups in BOP after 7 days of retraction (p = 0.0009); however, all parameters returned to normal after 28 days with no significant difference between groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

To avoid transient gingival inflammation or permanent gingival recession, no matter how small, the retraction time of AlCl3‐impregnated cords should be limited to no more than 10 min.
Effect of crystallization and finish line curvature on the marginal integrity of lithium disilicate crowns
Authors: Lee Ki‐Un , Ko Kyung‐Ho , Huh Yoon‐Hyuk , Park Chan‐Jin , Cho Lee‐Ra
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effect of crystallization and finish line curvature on the integrity of lithium disilicate crowns fabricated by using partially crystallized (P) and fully crystallized (F) blocks.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐eight lithium disilicate crowns were fabricated based on the designated lithium disilicate blocks and finish line curvatures. The specimens were divided into four groups (n = 12 each): P block with a curved finish line (PC), P block with a straight finish line (PS), F block with a curved finish line (FC), and F block with a straight finish line (FS). Using the silicone replica technique and triple scan method, the absolute marginal discrepancy was measured at four surfaces. Using the triple scan method, five sections were segmented for each surface. Global deviation was measured by using a best fit alignment. Three‐way mixed analysis of variance followed by Fisher least significant difference test and the Kruskal–Wallis test were used for statistical analyses (α = 0.05).

Results

The block crystallization had a significant impact on the marginal integrity in the triple scan method, showing a greater marginal discrepancy in the F block crowns (p < 0.001). The finish line curvature significantly influenced the marginal integrity in both measurement methods, with curved finish line crowns exhibiting a greater marginal discrepancy (p < 0.05). However, the areas with the greatest marginal discrepancies differed depending on the analytical method used.

Conclusions

The marginal discrepancies of the crowns differed according to the fabricated blocks and finish line curvature.
First Report of Pallidophorina paarla Causing Branch Cankers of Peach in México
Authors: Nativitas‐Lima Isabel , Leyva‐Mir Santos Gerardo , Avila‐Quezada Graciela Dolores , Camacho‐Tapia Moisés
Published: January 2025

Branch cankers were detected on peach orchards in Puebla, Mexico. Based on morphology, cultural features and molecular analysis, the causal agent was identified as Pallidophorina paarla. Koch's postulates were fulfilled by pathogenicity tests carried out on peach trees. To our knowledge, this is the first report of P. paarla causing branch cankers of peach in Mexico.
Inhibition of IRE‐1α Alleviates Pyroptosis and Metabolic Dysfunction‐Associated Steatohepatitis by Suppressing Gasdermin D
Authors: Zeng Xin , Wu Tian , Xu Qing , Li Lan , Yuan Yujia , Zhu Min , Liu Wen , Fu Fudong , Wu Zhenru , Yao Han , Liao Guangneng , Lu Yanrong , Cheng Jingqiu , Liu Jingping , Shi Yujun , Chen Younan
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a significant risk factor for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, for which there is currently no effective treatment. This study aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanism between endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress) and pyroptosis in the liver under the context of MASH.

Methods and Results

Pyroptosis was examined in both in vivo and in vitro ER stress models. The expression levels of nucleotide‐binding oligomerisation domain‐like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), gasdermin D (GSDMD), caspase‐1, IL‐1β, and IL‐18 tended to increase, and “ASC specks” colocalised with the swollen ER in living cells. However, in the pyroptotic model, increased ER stress was not observed. Moreover, the overexpression of inositol‐requiring enzyme 1α (IRE‐1α), one of the main ER stress sensors, led to increases in the levels of NLRP3 and GSDMD. However, after IRE‐1α was blocked by chemical inhibitors or siRNAs, pyroptosis was also abrogated. These data showed that ER stress regulated pyroptosis through IRE‐1α. Furthermore, the immunoprecipitation results clearly indicated that GSDMD efficiently bound to IRE‐1α when ER stress was stimulated. In the MASH model, IRE‐1α was specifically inhibited by pharmacological or genetic methods, which improved the pathology of MASH by alleviating ER stress and pyroptosis. In patients with MASH, both ER stress markers and pyroptosis markers including IRE‐1α, glucose‐regulated protein 78, GSDMD/GSDMD‐N, p20, and NLRP3, are highly expressed in the liver.

Conclusions

This study revealed that ER stress may regulate pyroptosis through IRE‐1α‐GSDMD pathway, which accelerates the progression of MASH. These findings may offer new insights for the treatment of MASH.
Molecular Adjustment to a Social Niche: Brain Transcriptomes Reveal Divergent Influence of Social Environment on the Two Queen Morphs of the Ant Temnothorax rugatulus
Authors: Stoldt Marah , Negroni Matteo Antoine , Feldmeyer Barbara , Foitzik Susanne
Published: January 2025

Social insects form complex societies with division of labour between different female castes. In most species, a single queen heads the colony; in others, several queens share the task of reproduction. These different social organisations are often associated with distinct queen morphologies and life‐history strategies and occur in different environments. In the ant Temnothorax rugatulus, queens are dimorphic. Macrogynes and microgynes reside in mono‐ and polygynous colonies and at lower and higher elevations, respectively. We analysed plastic changes in brain transcriptomes in response to the social environment in these queen morphs and their workers. We manipulated the number of queens over 4 months to investigate whether transcriptional activity is influenced by queen morph, social environment or their interaction. Changes in gene expression in the queens' brains in response to our manipulations were largely influenced by the interaction between social environment and queen morph, rather than independently by these factors. Macrogynes and microgynes thus adjust differently to their social environment. Similarly, worker transcriptomes were influenced by an interaction between behavioural type, that is, nurses or foragers, and queen morph. Nurses differentially regulated genes related to nutrition depending on queen morph, suggesting a link between social environment and metabolic dynamics in ant colonies. Overall, our study sheds light on how the social environment influences the molecular physiology of social insects. Furthermore, we demonstrate that in this ant with two queen morphs, worker physiology depends on queen morph and their role in the colony.
The association of parental age at delivery with childhood allergic disease and the modified effect of breastfeeding
Authors: Zhang Ye , Lu Ruoyu , Chen Yiting , Lyu Jiajun , Li Rong , Kang Wenhui , Zhao Anda , Ning Zidi , Hu Yabin , Yin Yong , Tong Shilu , Yuan Jiajun , Li Shenghui
Published: January 2025

Background

Childhood allergic diseases are a global concern; quite limited studies have examined the impacts of parental age at delivery. This study aimed to explore the association between separate and combined parental age at delivery and childhood allergic diseases and whether adequate breastfeeding could modify this association.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study sampled 15,976 children from Shanghai, China. The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire was adopted to evaluate allergic diseases. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to examine the association of parental age and exclusive breastfeeding with allergic diseases.

Results

The prevalence of allergic rhinitis, asthma, food allergy, drug allergy, urticaria, and eczema was 21.2%, 14.2%, 8.7%, 3.9%, 15.6%, and 35.5%, respectively. Either of parental age at delivery ≥25 years could increase the risk of allergic diseases in most cases, where paternal age showed a stronger effect. The risk was further elevated when parental age were both ≥25 years (OR ranged from 1.266 to 1.541, all p < .05 except for drug allergy). Breastfeeding >6 months was inversely associated with all types of allergic diseases and involved in attenuating the risk caused by parental age ≥25 years. These findings were generally validated by sensitivity examination as well as stratified analyses.

Conclusions

Parental age at delivery ≥25 years was a risk factor for most childhood allergic diseases. Breastfeeding >6 months applied to modifying the risk chalked up to parental age. These findings are significant given the rising age of parents and increasing prevalence of childhood allergic diseases.
Nitrogenous fertilizer‐free microalgal culture using nitrogen‐fixing cyanobacteria‐derived extracts for sustainable food production
Authors: Haraguchi Yuji , Okamoto Yuta , Asahi Toru , Shimizu Tatsuya
Published: January 2025

To establish an efficient cultured meat production system, we developed a novel circular cell culture (CCC) system using microalgae (Alvikia littoralis NBRC 102761) cultured in an animal cell waste medium. To reduce the external nitrogenous fertilizer input in the A. littoralis culture, we grew microalgae in nitrogenous fertilizer‐free media with an extract of the nitrogen‐fixing cyanobacteria Anabaena sp. PCC 7120 and Scytonema sp. NIES‐2130. The increase in A. littoralis cell concentration in seawater containing Scytonema extracts was 4.4‐fold higher than that in nitrogenous fertilizer‐free artificial seawater; however, it was 0.8‐fold lower than that in fertilizer‐enriched seawater. However, with the Anabaena extract, the increase in A. littoralis cell concentration was 14.6‐fold higher than that in nitrogenous fertilizer‐free artificial seawater and 2.1‐fold higher in fertilizer‐enriched seawater. Anabaena extract contained larger amounts of ammonium (7.6‐fold) than Scytonema extract, which was considered to be linked to the efficient growth of A. littoralis. Alvikia littoralis consumed 97% of the ammonium in the Anabaena extract, demonstrating that microalgae proliferated using the nitrogen source of the extract. Amino acids were extracted 2.8 times more efficiently from A. littoralis cultured with Anabaena extract than from fertilizer‐enriched seawater. Moreover, the concentration of A. littoralis cells increased 12.6‐fold in the waste medium of animal cells and 19.0‐fold in the waste medium with the Anabaena extract, indicating that the addition of the extract accelerated the growth of A. littoralis. The amount of ammonium increased in the waste culture medium with addition of Anabaena extract, and A. littoralis consumed 99% of the ammonium from the waste medium containing the extract. This microalgal culture method using Anabaena extract further improves the CCC system and could contribute to the establishment of a sustainable cultured meat production system that reduces the use of chemical fertilizers, crops and livestock, and also effectively uses waste.
Exploring contextual influences in collaboration: A sensemaking perspective
Authors: Yuan Zhihang , Wang Xiaohu , Li Jinwei , Xu Jingyuan
Published: January 2025

Almost all existing models explaining collaborative actions focus on the interactive dynamics among collaborators. While these dynamics are thought to be influenced by external contextual forces, there is little theory or empirical work documenting this relationship. Employing a unique and comprehensive database of 890 contextual tensions, we adopt a sensemaking approach to explore the role of a fast‐evolving and ambiguous collaborative context in collaborative governance. We find that heightened sociopolitical controversies were “weaponized” by certain stakeholder groups to influence collaboration through forming and intensifying a political narrative, and this narrative was aided by the convenient adoption of evolving economic and financial circumstances as “ammunition.” These strategic choices, combined, produced a significant evolving context for the collaboration to adapt. These insights highlight the theoretical significance of contextual forces in intergovernmental collaborative governance and call for policymakers' attention to contextual uncertainties.