bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The molecular history of IDH‐mutant astrocytomas without adjuvant treatment
Authors: Shi Zhi‐Feng , Li Kay Ka‐Wai , Kwan Johnny Sheung‐Him , Chung Nellie Yuk‐Fei , Wong Sze‐Ching , Chu Abby Wai‐Yan , Chen Hong , Chan Danny Tat‐Ming , Mao Ying , Ng Ho‐Keung
Published: October 2024

Hypermutation and malignant transformation are potential complications arising from temozolomide treatment of IDH‐mutant gliomas. However, the natural history of IDH‐mutant low‐grade gliomas without temozolomide treatment is actually under‐studied. We retrieved retrospectively from our hospitals paired tumors from 19 patients with IDH‐mutant, 1p19q non‐codeleted Grade 2 astrocytomas where no interim adjuvant treatment with either temozolomide or radiotherapy was given between primary resections and first recurrences. Tissues from multiple recurrences were available from two patients and radiotherapy but not temozolomide was given before the last specimens were resected. We studied the natural molecular history of these low‐grade IDH‐mutant astrocytomas without pressure of temozolomide with DNA methylation profiling and copy number variation (CNV) analyses, targeted DNA sequencing, TERTp sequencing, FISH for ALT and selected biomarkers. Recurrences were mostly higher grades (15/19 patients) and characterized by new CNVs not present in the primary tumors (17/19 cases). Few novel mutations were identified in recurrences. Tumors from 17/19 (89.5%) patients showed either CDKN2A homozygous deletion, MYC or PDGFRA focal and non‐focal gains at recurrences. There was no case of hypermutation. Phylogenetic trees constructed for tumors for the two patients with multiple recurrences suggested a lack of subclone development in their evolution when under no pressure from temozolomide. In summary, our studies demonstrated, in contrast to the phenomenon of temozolomide‐induced hypermutation, IDH‐mutant, 1p19q non‐codeleted Grade 2 astrocytomas which had not been treated by temozolomide, acquired new CNVs at tumor recurrences. These findings improve our understanding of the molecular life history of IDH‐mutant astrocytomas.
Ray Tracing Animated Displaced Micro‐Meshes
Authors: Gruen Holger , Benthin Carsten , Kensler Andrew , Barczak Joshua , McAllister David
Published: October 2024

We present a new method that allows efficient ray tracing of virtually artefact‐free animated displaced micro‐meshes (DMMs) [MMT23] and preserves their low memory footprint and low BVH build and update cost. DMMs allow for compact representation of micro‐triangle geometry through hierarchical encoding of displacements. Displacements are computed with respect to a coarse base mesh and are used to displace new vertices introduced during 1 : 4 subdivision of the base mesh. Applying non‐rigid transformation to the base mesh can result in silhouette and normal artefacts (see Figure 1) during animation. We propose an approach which prevents these artefacts by interpolating transformation matrices before applying them to the DMM representation. Our interpolation‐based algorithm does not change DMM data structures and it allows for efficient bounding of animated micro‐triangle geometry which is essential for fast tessellation‐free ray tracing of animated DMMs.
Artificial intelligence for children: UNICEF's policy guidance and beyond
Authors: Liu Suyu , Ding Wenjun
Published: October 2024

This policy review introduces the Policy Guidance on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Children, produced by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). This Policy Guidance is the first international‐level output to boost the development of child‐centred AI and relevant policies. A main contribution of this Policy Guidance is that it outlines the foundations, requirements and specific recommendations for developing child‐centred AI and surrounding policies. The shortcomings of this Policy Guidance are also introduced, especially the insufficient gender responsiveness and age sensitivity, plus relatively low representation of the developing world. Possible suggestions for future updates of the Policy Guidance and improving policies on child‐centred AI are provided in this review, such as the inclusion of a broader age range of children during the consultation process. The coexistence of contributions and limitations of this Policy Guidance reflects the situation of development of child‐centred AI and relevant policies, which is currently immature but promising.
Persistent Chronic Active T‐Cell‐Mediated Rejection After Kidney Transplantation Is Associated With Poor Allograft Survival
Authors: Noguchi Hiroshi , Matsukuma Yuta , Ueki Kenji , Tsuchimoto Akihiro , Nishiyama Kei , Nakano Toshiaki , Kubo Shinsuke , Sato Yu , Kaku Keizo , Okabe Yasuhiro , Nakamura Masafumi
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Histopathological findings of chronic active T‐cell‐mediated rejection (CA‐TCMR) have been reported to potentially improve with treatment. However, whether this improvement is associated with a better renal prognosis remains unclear. This study was performed to analyze the impact of the histological response to therapy on kidney allograft survival in patients with CA‐TCMR.

Methods

The data of patients diagnosed with CA‐TCMR between January 2018 and May 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. A composite graft endpoint was defined as a two‐fold increase in the serum creatinine level or the development of end‐stage kidney disease.

Results

Thirty‐seven patients with CA‐TCMR underwent 46 follow‐up biopsies. Eleven patients who were diagnosed with CA‐TCMR at the last biopsy were classified as the persistent group, while the remaining 26 patients were classified as the transient group. Both before and after treatment, there were no significant changes in serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate, or proteinuria in either group. However, the transient group showed a significant reduction in interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy without a specific etiology (IFTA). This improvement was attributed to better histopathological Banff scores after treatment. Patients with persistent CA‐TCMR had significantly worse graft survival than those with transient CA‐TCMR (p = 0.002), even after adjusting for significant clinical factors (hazard ratio: 11.4; 95% CI: 1.1–120.0; p = 0.043).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the persistence of histopathologic evidence of CA‐TCMR after treatment is a significant risk factor for allograft loss compared with transient CA‐TCMR.
Food systems in protracted crises: examining indigenous food sovereignty amid de‐development in Kashmir
Authors: Tak Mehroosh , Hussain Sardar Babur , Zargar Haris , Blake Lauren J.
Published: October 2024

How do protracted crises shape indigenous food systems, and what are their ramifications for food and nutritional security? Building on decolonial and interdisciplinary research approaches, this paper assesses the consequences of militarised violence for Kashmir's food system. We document the impact of settler‐colonialism and conflict‐induced agrarian changes on delocalisation of diets. The protracted nature of the crises has two key implications for changes in dietary patterns. First, land control over common land dispossesses the local population and hinders food production. Second, disenfranchisement from (agricultural) land has led to increased reliance on markets that are flooded by imported foods as local production declines. The paper argues that the state plays an important role in food system changes by destroying local patterns of food production and consumption. Slow violence and agrarian de‐development serve as tools to de‐develop the local food system. Indigenous food cultures form part of everyday resistance and resilience that are operationalised as mitigation and adaptation strategies to address food insecurity.
The effect of high‐fibre diets on glycaemic control in women with diabetes in pregnancy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Jones Danielle , Kyriakidou Anna , Cooper Louise , Atta Nooria , Tobolska Patrycja , Smith Suzanne , Turner Elizabeth , Petry Clive , Gillies Clare , Meek Claire L.
Published: October 2024

Dietary fibre improves glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes, but its therapeutic role in women with diabetes in pregnancy is unclear. We assessed the effect of dietary fibre on markers of glycaemic control in women with diabetes in pregnancy.

Methods

We searched four databases (Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science) to identify RCTs exploring the effect of dietary fibre, high‐fibre diets or fibre supplementation on fasting blood glucose (FBG), 2‐h postprandial blood glucose (PBG) and requirement for insulin therapy, among other glycaemic makers in pregnant women with diabetes. Data were pooled for each outcome to calculate change from baseline mean (SD) and overall mean difference (MD) between control and intervention groups.

Results

Of 1462 identified studies, data from 20 eligible trials containing 1061 participants were pooled. On meta‐analysis, a higher fibre intake was associated with reduced FBG (MD: −0.35 mmol/L, 95% CI: −0.53, −0.18, p < 0.01), PBG (MD: −0.90 mmol/L, 95% CI: −1.39, −0.40, p < 0.01) and requirement for insulin (OR: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.46, p < 0.01). There was significant heterogeneity for FBG and PBG (>90%), attributable to differences in Intervention type for PBG (Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension [DASH] diet, low glycaemic index, supplement; p < 0.01) and study duration (for FBG: p = 0.002; not for PBG). Studies were mostly scored as high risk of bias due to lack of blinding (Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool v.2.0).

Conclusion

High‐quality dietary intervention studies in pregnancy are lacking. Our results suggest that high‐fibre diets improve fasting and postprandial glycaemia and reduce the likelihood of requiring insulin in women with diabetes in pregnancy.
Leadership in a social dilemma: Does it matter if the leader is pro‐social or just says they are pro‐social?
Authors: Cartwright Edward , Chai Yidan , Xue Lian
Published: October 2024

Previous studies have shown that pro‐social leaders cooperate, on average, more than pro‐self leaders in social dilemmas. It can, thus, be beneficial for the group to have a pro‐social leader. In this paper we analyze the consequences of a leader informing followers that they are pro‐social (or pro‐self). In doing so, we compare a setting in which the leader's type is truthfully revealed to settings where the leader can ‘hide’ or ‘lie’ about their pro‐sociality. We find that a leader saying they are pro‐social boosts efficiency, even if the signal is not fully credible. Cooperation is highest in a truth setting with a pro‐social leader. We demonstrate that these results are consistent with a belief‐based model of social preference in which the stated type of the leader changes the frame of reference for followers.
Insect biotremology—An introduction
Authors: Nieri Rachele , Beukeboom Leo W. , Mazzoni Valerio
Published: October 2024

Biotremology, officially coined in 2016, has rapidly emerged as a distinct scientific discipline, focusing on the study of substrate‐borne mechanical waves in animal communication, particularly among insects. Initially seen as a niche within bioacoustics, biotremology is now recognized for its broad significance, rivalling chemical communication in its prevalence. This special issue highlights the multidisciplinary nature of biotremology, with research spanning insect behaviour, ecology and pest management. Studies showcase advances in understanding vibrational communication across diverse insect taxa, the development of new tools for reliable playback experiments and the growing potential of biotremology in applied pest control. This collection provides a snapshot of a dynamic field in rapid expansion, pushing the boundaries of both fundamental research and practical applications.
Executive functions and processing speed in covert cerebral small vessel disease
Authors: Jokinen Hanna , Laakso Hanna M. , Arola Anne , Paajanen Teemu I. , Virkkala Jussi , Särkämö Teppo , Makkonen Tommi , Kyläheiko Iiris , Heinonen Heidi , Pitkänen Johanna , Korvenoja Antti , Melkas Susanna
Published: October 2024

Background and purpose

Executive dysfunction and slowed processing speed are central cognitive impairments in cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD). It is unclear whether the subcomponents of executive functions become equally affected and whether computerized tests are more sensitive in detecting early cognitive changes over traditional tests. The associations of specific executive abilities (cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, working memory) and processing speed with white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) were examined.

Methods

In the Helsinki Small Vessel Disease Study, 152 older individuals without stroke or dementia were assessed with brain magnetic resonance imaging and comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation. WMH volumes were obtained with automated segmentation. Executive functions and processing speed measures included established paper‐and‐pencil tests and the computer‐based Flexible Attention Test (FAT), Simon task and Sustained Attention to Response Task.

Results

White matter hyperintensity volume and IADL were associated with multiple cognitive measures across subdomains independently of demographic factors. The highest effect sizes were observed for FAT numbers and number‐letter tasks (tablet modifications from the Trail Making Test), FAT visuospatial span, Simon task and semantic verbal fluency. Some of the widely used tests such as Stroop inhibition, phonemic fluency and digit span were not significantly associated with either WMHs or IADL.

Conclusion

Processing speed and executive function subcomponents are broadly related to functional abilities and WMH severity in covert cSVD, but the strength of associations within subdomains is heavily dependent on the assessment method. Digital tests providing precise measures of reaction times and response accuracy seem to outperform many of the conventional paper‐and‐pencil tests.
Transition to seizure in focal epilepsy: From SEEG phenomenology to underlying mechanisms
Authors: Kayabas Mehmet Alihan , Köksal Ersöz Elif , Yochum Maxime , Bartolomei Fabrice , Benquet Pascal , Wendling Fabrice
Published: October 2024

Objective

For the pre‐surgical evaluation of patients with drug‐resistant focal epilepsy, stereo‐electroencephalographic (SEEG) signals are routinely recorded to identify the epileptogenic zone network (EZN). This network consists of remote brain regions involved in seizure initiation. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying typical SEEG patterns that occur during the transition from interictal to ictal activity in distant brain nodes of the EZN remain poorly understood. The primary aim is to identify and explain these mechanisms using a novel physiologically‐plausible model of the EZN.

Methods

We analyzed SEEG signals recorded from the EZN in 10 patients during the transition from interictal to ictal activity. This transition consisted of a sequence of periods during which SEEG signals from distant neocortical regions showed stereotypical patterns of activity: sustained preictal spiking activity preceding a fast activity occurring at seizure onset, followed by the ictal activity. Spectral content and non‐linear correlation of SEEG signals were analyzed. In addition, we developed a novel neuro‐inspired computational model consisting of bidirectionally coupled neuronal populations.

Results

The proposed model captured the essential characteristics of the patient signals, including the quasi‐synchronous onset of rapid discharges in distant interconnected epileptogenic zones. Statistical analysis confirmed the dynamic correlation/de‐decorrelation pattern observed in the patient signals and accurately reproduced in the simulated signals.

Significance

This study provides insight into the abnormal dynamic changes in glutamatergic and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic synaptic transmission that occur during the transition to seizures. The results strongly support the hypothesis that bidirectional connections between distant neuronal populations of the EZN (from pyramidal cells to vaso‐intestinal peptide‐positive interneurons) play a key role in this transition, while parvalbumin‐positive interneurons intervene in the emergence of rapid discharges at seizure onset.
Interleukin‐11 receptor is an alternative α‐receptor for interleukin‐6 and the chimeric cytokine IC7
Authors: Weitz Hendrik T. , Ettich Julia , Rafii Puyan , Wittich Christoph , Schultz Laura , Frank Nils C. , Heise Denise , Krusche Matthias , Lokau Juliane , Garbers Christoph , Behnke Kristina , Floss Doreen M. , Kolmar Harald , Moll Jens M. , Scheller Jürgen
Published: October 2024

The cytokine interleukin 6 (IL‐6) signals via the IL‐6 α‐receptor (IL‐6Rα or IL‐6R) in complex with the gp130 β‐receptor. Cell type restricted expression of the IL‐6R limits the action of IL‐6 mainly to hepatocytes and some immune cells. Here, we show that IL‐6 also binds to the IL‐11 α receptor (IL‐11Rα or IL‐11R) and induces signaling via IL‐11R:gp130 complexes, albeit with a lower affinity compared to IL‐11. Antagonistic antibodies directed against IL‐11R, but not IL‐6R, inhibit IL‐6 signaling via IL‐11R:gp130 receptor complexes. Notably, IL‐11 did not cross‐react with IL‐6R. IL‐11R has also been identified as an alternative α receptor for the CNTF/IL‐6‐derived chimeric cytokine IC7, which has recently been shown to induce weight loss in mice. Accordingly, the effects of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies against IL‐6 or IL‐6R, which both block IL‐6 signaling, may be slightly different. These findings provide new insights into IL‐6 signaling and therefore offer new potential therapeutic intervention options in the future.
Effect of Surface Roughness and Compressive Residual Stress on the Fatigue Performance of TC4 Titanium Alloy Subjected to Laser Shock Wave Planishing
Authors: Wu Lei , Dai FengZe , Chen XiZhang
Published: October 2024

The milled surface of TC4 titanium alloy was treated by laser shock peening (LSP) and laser shock wave planishing (LSWP) to investigate the effect of compressive residual stress (CRS) and surface roughness (SR) on the vibration fatigue performance. The results demonstrate that although the amplitude of CRS induced by LSWP is lower than that of LSPed specimens, the vibration fatigue life of LSWPed specimens increased by 63.78% due to a significant reduction in SR from Sa 14.1 μm to Sa 4.21 μm. When the SR is low, increasing the amplitude of CRS is more advantageous to enhance fatigue life. The fractographic analysis further confirmed that compared with LSPed and T0.2‐LSWPed specimens, T0.1‐LSWPed specimens have considerably less initial fatigue crack initiation, and the crack initiation location is deeper. The fatigue striation spacing of T0.1‐LSWPed specimens is the smallest (0.25 μm), greatly lowering the fatigue crack growth rate.
Hotter Temperatures Reduce the Diversity and Alter the Composition of Woody Plants in an Amazonian Forest
Authors: Fortier Riley P. , Kullberg Alyssa T. , Soria Ahuanari Roy D. , Coombs Lauren , Ruzo Andrés , Feeley Kenneth J.
Published: October 2024

Rapid warming and high temperatures are an immediate threat to global ecosystems, but the threat may be especially pronounced in the tropics. Although low‐latitude tree species are widely predicted to be vulnerable to warming, information about how tropical tree diversity and community composition respond to elevated temperatures remains sparse. Here, we study long‐term responses of tree diversity and composition to increased soil and air temperatures at the Boiling River—an exceptional and unique “natural warming experiment” in the central Peruvian Amazon. Along the Boiling River's course, geothermally heated water joins the river, gradually increasing water temperature and subsequently warming the surrounding forest. In the riparian forests along the Boiling River, mean annual and maximum air temperatures span gradients of 4°C and 11°C, respectively, over extremely short distances (< 1 km), with the hottest temperatures matching those predicted for much of the Amazon under future global warming scenarios. Using a new network of 70 woody plant inventory plots situated along the Boiling River's thermal gradient, we observed a ca. 11% decline in tree α‐diversity per 1°C increase in mean annual temperature. We also found that the tree communities growing under elevated temperatures were generally more thermophilic (i.e., included greater relative abundances of species from hotter parts of the Amazon) than the communities in cooler parts of the gradient. Based on patterns at the Boiling River, we hypothesize that global warming will lead to dramatic shifts in tree diversity and composition in the lowland Amazon, including local extinctions and biotic attrition.
Mid‐upper arm circumference as a screening tool for identifying physical frailty in community‐dwelling older adults: The Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study
Authors: Kim So Young , Kim Mi Ji , Shin Dong Wook , Won Chang Won , Shim Ha Young , Cho Be Long
Published: October 2024

Aims

Frailty in older adults is influenced by various factors, such as poor nutritional status. Mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC) is a validated, simple, and non‐invasive tool for assessing nutritional status. Despite its potential, no study has explored the association between MUAC and physical frailty in older adults. This study aims to investigate this association and assess whether MUAC can be used as a screening tool in community and primary clinical practice.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 1178 participants aged 71.8 to 86.7 years from the 2019 Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study (KFACS). Physical frailty was defined using the Fried frailty phenotype criteria. MUAC was measured as the average circumference of both upper arms without compressing the subcutaneous tissue. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for physical frailty, stratified by sex, were estimated using multiple logistic regression analysis after adjustments.

Results

MUAC was lower in physically frail men compared with non‐frail men (28.0 ± 2.9 vs. 29.4 ± 2.6 cm, P < 0.001). MUAC was negatively correlated with the Frailty Index (r = −0.155, P < 0.001). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that MUAC was an independent factor for physical frailty in men (OR  0.986, 95% CI  0.973–1.000, P = 0.049). The optimal MUAC cutoff for identifying physical frailty in men was 28.2 cm (sensitivity 60.7%, specificity 71.4%, AUC  0.672, 95% CI 0.595–0.749, P < 0.001). No significant results were found for women.

Conclusion

Low MUAC is significantly associated with physical frailty in older men, suggesting the potential for MUAC to be utilized as a screening tool for physical frailty in community and primary clinical settings. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1292–1299.
The multiple roles of macrophages in peritoneal adhesion
Authors: Yang Shangwei , Zheng Yanhe , Pu Zhenjun , Nian Hongyu , Li Junliang
Published: October 2024

Peritoneal adhesion (PA) refers to the abnormal adhesion of the peritoneum either with the peritoneum itself or with tissues and organs that is caused by abdominopelvic surgery, abdominal infection or peritoneal inflammation. PA is associated with various clinical complications, such as abdominal pain and distension, intestinal obstruction, gastrointestinal disorders and female infertility, and adversely affects the quality of life of patients. Macrophages are essential for PA formation and can undergo polarization into classically activated macrophages (M1) and alternatively activated macrophages (M2), which are influenced by the peritoneal microenvironment. By releasing proinflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species, M1 macrophages promote peritoneal inflammatory reactions and the resultant formation of adhesion. In contrast, M2 macrophages secrete anti‐inflammatory cytokines and growth factors to inhibit PA formation and to promote repair and healing of peritoneal tissues, and thereby play a significant anti‐inflammatory role. This review comprehensively explores the function and mechanism of macrophages and their subtypes in PA formation to gain insight into the prevention and treatment of PA based on the modulation of macrophages.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Chinese Version of the Vulvovaginal Symptom Questionnaire in Women With Breast Cancer
Authors: Lee Yueh‐Ching , Chang Yuan‐Ching , Chou Cheng‐Chen , Lin Yen‐Kuang , Li Chia‐Hui , Liao Yuan‐Mei
Published: October 2024

Aims

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Vulvovaginal Symptoms Questionnaire for assessing vulvovaginal symptoms and symptom‐related influences in women with breast cancer.

Design

A methodological study.

Methods

Women with breast cancer (n = 202) were recruited from the outpatient department of a hospital. Data were collected between July 2020 and October 2021. Psychometric properties, including internal consistency, test–retest reliability and construct validity, were tested after the translation of the original English‐language instrument. The construct validity was examined by testing the hypothesised relationships between the Chinese version of the Vulvovaginal Symptoms Questionnaire with validated instruments associated with quality of life and sexual function and by Confirmatory Factor Analysis.

Results

The internal consistency and test–retest reliability for the Chinese version of the Vulvovaginal Symptoms Questionnaire's total scale and four subscales were satisfactory. The construct validity was confirmed by significant correlations between scores on the Chinese version of the Vulvovaginal Symptoms Questionnaire with the Chinese version of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire‐Cancer 30 and Quality of Life Questionnaire‐Breast 23 and the Chinese version of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire 12. The Confirmatory Factor Analysis verification results showed that the traditional Chinese‐language questionnaire's three‐ and four‐factor models had acceptable model fit indices.

Conclusion

We obtained the Chinese version of the Vulvovaginal Symptoms Questionnaire's preliminary and satisfactory psychometric properties. It can help worldwide healthcare professionals adequately assess vulvovaginal symptoms and their influences experienced by Chinese‐speaking women with breast cancer.

Implications for Practice

The Chinese version of the Vulvovaginal Symptoms Questionnaire can help healthcare professionals and researchers concurrently identify vulvovaginal symptoms and related influences, leading to timely and appropriate management. Well‐designed and accessible healthcare services on vulvovaginal and sexual health after breast cancer diagnosis are essential for both healthcare professionals and this population.

Reporting Method

We adhered to the STROBE checklist of cross‐sectional studies.

Patients or Public Contribution

No patient or public engagement..
Social identity in environmental protection engagement: How are different kinds of identity related to different types of engagement?
Authors: Hrabetz Barbara , Kraus Elisabeth Barbara , Gruber Hans
Published: October 2024

Social approaches can contribute to clarifying environmental issues. For instance, social identity theory can help to comprehend people's motivations for getting involved in environmental protection. However, the kind of social identity best suited for predicting environmental protection engagement remains unclear. This study examines different categories of social identity in relation to different types of environmental protection engagement. The predictive power of identification with environmentalists, as well as with politicized and non‐politicized environmental groups, are considered separately. Furthermore, environmental protection engagement is divided into pro‐environmental behavior and two different demanding forms of pro‐environmental collective action—participatory environmental action and leadership environmental action. Data collected online from 985 respondents involved in environmental protection were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The results showed that while environmental group identification was not significantly related to any kind of environmental protection engagement, environmentalist identification emerged as a predictor of participatory environmental action, leadership environmental action and pro‐environmental behavior. Moreover, these connections were stronger for participants belonging to a politicized environmental group than for those belonging to a non‐politicized environmental group and those not belonging to any environmental group. These results support and extend previous findings on the role of social identity in pro‐environmental collective action and pro‐environmental behavior.
The Orientation in Space of the Maxillary Arch: New and Old Devices in the Prosthetic Digital Workflow
Authors: Gracis Stefano , Appiani Antonello , Scattarelli Paolo , Ori Giacomo , Noè Gaetano
Published: October 2024

Objective

In extensive prosthetic rehabilitations and in those involving the anterior area, a correct 3D spatial position is of fundamental importance for effective communication between the clinician and the dental technician. The aim of this article is to analyze the different methods used to position in space and/or in an articulator the maxillary arch in analog workflows highlighting shortcomings and difficulties in order to understand how to overcome them when employing digital workflows.

Overview

Traditional mechanical devices, such as anatomical, kinematic, esthetic and postural facebows, have clear indications, but also limitations, especially in cases of skeletal asymmetries. Modern digital tools, including photography, CBCT, facial scanners and jaw recording devices, are here critically analyzed to illustrate the advantages of working in a virtual space.

Conclusions

The adoption of digital tools in the prosthetic workflow represents a significant improvement compared to traditional techniques, as it reduces errors and artifacts of registration and transfer of the position of the maxillary arch in the articulator space. This contributes to more predictable esthetic and functional results, with a positive impact for clinicians and technicians, improving clinical‐laboratory communication, operational efficiency and overall quality of work.

Clinical Significance

The integration of digital tools into prosthetic workflows represents an important advancement in clinical practice since they reduce human error and facilitate communication between the clinician and the laboratory. When carrying out rehabilitations involving changes in esthetics or occlusal plane orientation, the proper and accurate positioning of the upper arch in space is particularly relevant.
The OsMAPK5–OsWRKY72 module negatively regulates grain length and grain weight in rice
Authors: Wang Fuxiang , Lin Jiexin , Yang Fan , Chen Xiaofeng , Liu Yiyi , Yan Lingnan , Chen Jing , Wang Zonghua , Xie Huaan , Zhang Jianfu , Xu Huibin , Chen Songbiao
Published: October 2024

Grain size and grain weight are important determinants for grain yield. In this study, we identify a novel OsMAPK5–OsWRKY72 module that negatively regulates grain length and grain weight in rice. We found that loss‐of‐function of OsMAPK5 leads to larger cell size of the rice spikelet hulls and a significant increase in both grain length and grain weight in an indica variety Minghui 86 (MH86). OsMAPK5 interacts with OsMAPKK3/4/5 and OsWRKY72 and phosphorylates OsWRKY72 at T86 and S88. Similar to the osmapk5 MH86 mutants, the oswrky72 knockout MH86 mutants exhibited larger size of spikelet hull cells and increased grain length and grain weight, whereas the OsWRKY72‐overexpression MH86 plants showed opposite phenotypes. OsWRKY72 targets the W‐box motifs in the promoter of OsARF6, an auxin response factor involved in auxin signaling. Dual‐luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that OsWRKY72 activates OsARF6 expression. The activation effect of the phosphorylation‐mimicking OsWRKY72T86D/S88D on OsARF6 expression was significantly enhanced, whereas the effects of the OsWRKY72 phosphorylation‐null mutants were significantly reduced. In addition, auxin levels in young panicles of the osmapk5 and oswrky72 mutants were significantly higher than that in the wild‐type MH86. Collectively, our study uncovered novel connections of the OsMAPKK3/4/5‐OsMAPK5‐mediated MAPK signaling, OsWRKY72‐mediated transcription regulation, and OsARF6‐mediated auxin signaling pathways in regulating grain length and grain weight in an indica‐type rice, providing promising targets for molecular breeding of rice varieties with high yield and quality.
Circulating medium‐ and long‐chain acylcarnitines are associated with plasma P‐tau181 in cognitively normal older adults
Authors: Sharmin Tahmida , Chatterjee Pratishtha , Doecke James D. , Ashton Nicholas J. , Huynh Kevin , Pedrini Steve , Sohrabi Hamid R. , Heng Benjamin , Eslick Shaun , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Garg Manohar , Martins Ralph N.
Published: October 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis involves dysregulation in diverse biochemical processes. Nevertheless, plasma tau phosphorylated at threonine 181 (P‐tau181), a recognised AD biomarker, has been described to reflect early‐stage cortical amyloid‐β (Aβ) deposition in cognitively normal (CN) adults. Therefore, identifying changes in plasma metabolites associated with plasma P‐tau181 at the pre‐clinical stage may provide insights into underlying biochemical mechanisms to better understand initial AD pathogenesis. In the current study, plasma P‐tau181, quantified via single molecule array (Simoa) technology, and plasma metabolites, quantified via targeted‐mass spectrometry, were investigated for associations in CN older adults and upon stratification by positron emission tomography (PET)‐Aβ load. In addition, the P‐tau181‐linked metabolites were evaluated for cognitive performance and neuroimaging markers of AD and the potential to distinguish between CN Aβ− and CN Aβ+ individuals. Significant positive associations of medium‐ and long‐chain acylcarnitines (ACs) were observed with P‐tau181 in the entire cohort, CN Aβ− and CN Aβ+, suggesting a link between initial Aβ pathology and fatty acid oxidation‐mediated energy metabolism pathways. However, in CN Aβ−, additional linear associations of P‐tau181 were observed with muscle metabolism and nitric oxide homeostasis‐associated metabolites. Upon investigating the P‐tau181‐linked metabolites for cognitive performance, significant inverse correlations of the verbal and visual episodic memory and the global composite score were noted in CN Aβ+ with medium‐ and long‐chain ACs, suggesting prognostic value of ACs accompanying weaker cognitive performance. While investigating neuroimaging markers, ACs had positive associations with PET‐Aβ load and inverse associations with hippocampal volume in CN Aβ+, indicating connections of ACs with initial AD pathogenesis. Furthermore, based on receiver operating characteristics analysis, the associated ACs potentially classified PET‐Aβ status in older adults. Therefore, plasma P‐tau181‐linked circulating ACs may serve as potential prognostic markers for initial AD pathogenesis in CN older adults. However, further cross‐sectional and longitudinal research in highly characterised AD cohorts is needed to validate current findings.

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Knowledge gaps in diagnosing chronic polyneuropathy: Review of national guidelines
Authors: Wiersma M. , van der Star G. M. , Notermans N. C. , van Doorn P. A. , Vrancken A. F. J. E. ,   The EXPRESS Study Consortium
Published: October 2024

The prevalence of chronic polyneuropathy will increase due to the aging population, and therefore, it becomes ever so important to optimize the diagnostic process. However, it is uncertain which blood tests are required and when nerve conduction studies (NCS) should be done in the workup of chronic polyneuropathy. We aimed to investigate the methodology used to develop national polyneuropathy guidelines and to provide an overview and strength of evidence of the recommendations. We searched PubMed and websites of national neurological associations as listed on the website of the World Federation of Neurology to identify national guidelines pertaining to the workup of chronic polyneuropathy by neurologists in an outpatient clinic setting. We identified three national guidelines in the United States and seven national guidelines in Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, and Turkey. The methodology used to develop the guidelines differed greatly. All guidelines recommend a series of blood tests. Some guidelines advise to conduct NCS in all patients, while other guidelines advise to conduct NCS when certain symptoms are present. There is variation in recommendations about the extensiveness of NCS, but all mention measuring the sural nerve and the motor peroneal nerve. The evidence for the recommendations is graded as low. Despite some overlap, there are disparities between guidelines regarding the workup that is advised to do in patients with chronic polyneuropathy. It remains unclear which combination of blood tests are to be strongly recommended. Furthermore, it is undetermined whether NCS are always necessary.
From Marine Culture to Ocean Literacy: Ocean Education as Taiwan's Nation‐Building Project
Authors: Hou Kuang‐hao , Chang Hsin‐mei
Published: October 2024

This paper explores the difficulties related to the implementation of the ocean education policy in Taiwan, based on interviews. Viewing nationalism as an ethnic ideology, a primary objective of the Taiwan Independence Movement (TIM) is to establish an ethnic boundary between Taiwan's residents and the Chinese people on the mainland. One way in which the TIM is seeking to erect this boundary is to assert that Taiwan is a marine nation‐state, contrasting it with China as a continental state. Initially aimed at fostering marine consciousness and culture, Taiwan's ocean education policy later shifted toward improving ocean literacy. The government, which is aligned with the TIM, accepted this shift because its educational goals and approach can serve as a propaganda tool for demonstrating Taiwan's distinctiveness from China. In contrast, frontline educators must adapt ocean education's content to suit the local marine customs, and geographical and economic conditions, and so meet the educational requirements. A strict adherence to the national identification objectives within ocean education raises problems regarding policy implementation. By denying the existence of marine culture in Taiwan, Taiwan's ocean education policy has been assigned a utopian mission that is too radical to be achieved.
Capsular Polysaccharide Production in Bacteria of the Mycoplasma Genus: A Huge Diversity of Pathways and Synthases for So‐Called Minimal Bacteria
Authors: Vastel Manon , Pau‐Roblot Corinne , Ferré Séverine , Tocqueville Véronique , Ambroset Chloé , Marois‐Créhan Corinne , Gautier‐Bouchardon Anne V. , Tardy Florence , Gaurivaud Patrice
Published: October 2024

Mycoplasmas are wall‐less bacteria with many species spread across various animal hosts in which they can be pathogenic. Despite their reduced anabolic capacity, some mycoplasmas are known to secrete hetero‐ and homopolysaccharides, which play a role in host colonization through biofilm formation or immune evasion, for instance. This study explores how widespread the phenomenon of capsular homopolysaccharide secretion is within mycoplasmas, and investigates the diversity of both the molecules produced and the synthase‐type glycosyltransferases responsible for their production. Fourteen strains representing 14 (sub)species from four types of hosts were tested in vitro for their polysaccharide secretion using both specific (immunodetection) and nonspecific (sugar dosage) assays. We evidenced a new, atypical homopolymer of β‐(1 → 6)‐glucofuranose (named glucofuranan) in the human pathogen Mycoplasma (M.) fermentans, as well as a β‐(1 → 6)‐glucopyranose polymer for the turkey pathogen M. iowae and galactan (β‐(1 → 6)‐galactofuranose) and β‐(1 → 2)‐glucopyranose for M. bovigenitalium infecting ruminants. Sequence and phylogenetic analyses revealed a huge diversity of synthases from varied Mycoplasma species. The clustering of these membrane‐embedded glycosyltransferases into three main groups was only partially correlated to the structure of the produced homopolysaccharides.
GalNAc‐Conjugated siRNA Targeting Complement C3 Inhibits Osteoclast Activation in Periodontitis
Authors: Chen Yingyi , Liu Yitong , Fu Zhongguo , Xu Junji , Guo Lijia , Cao Huiqing , Gan Liming , Gao Shan , Liu Yi
Published: October 2024

Objective

The complement cascade plays an important role in the inflammation amplification and tissue destruction of periodontitis. Importantly, complement C3 was proved to be the central element of complement cascade. Thus, targeting inhibition of C3 has become one of the focuses of treatment method development and exploration.

Methods

The siRNAs targeting C3 were designed and screened for in vitro potency. The selected siRNA was conjugated to GalNAc (GalNAc‐C3 siRNA) for liver‐specific delivery. The mouse model of periodontitis was established by silk ligation. Stereomicroscopy, Micro‐CT, histological and histochemical assessment, and immunofluorescence staining were performed to evaluate the level of bone destructive and osteoclast activity. The influence of GalNAc‐C3 siRNA on inflammatory reactions was determined by qRT‐PCR, ELISA, and flow cytometry.

Results

GalNAc‐C3 siRNA showed great in vivo potency and durability to silence hepatic C3 mRNA expression. GalNAc‐C3 siRNA treatment could effectively inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines (IL‐17A, TNF‐α, IL‐6, and IFN‐γ) and restrain Th17 differentiation. Importantly, the expression of RANKL and differentiation of osteoclast were inhibited by GalNAc‐C3 siRNA.

Conclusion

GalNAc‐C3 siRNA could efficiently play a role in bone protection by inhibiting inflammatory responses and osteoclast activities. This therapeutic siRNA may become an effective treatment strategy for periodontitis.
Neighborhood‐Level Deprivation Impacts Graft and Patient Outcomes Among Pediatric Liver Transplant Recipients
Authors: Bitterfeld Leandra , Sanchez‐Garcia Jorge , Jaramillo Catalina
Published: October 2024

Background

The impact of social determinants of health (SDOH) on pediatric liver transplant outcomes has not been extensively investigated. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of neighborhood‐level deprivation on graft and patient survival among pediatric liver transplant recipients.

Methods

This is a single‐center observational study among children who received a primary liver transplant from March 1996 to March 2023. The Childhood Opportunity Index (COI) score was used to measure the degree of neighborhood deprivation.

Results

A total of 252 children were included, half (52.8%) were female and the majority were non‐Hispanic White (71%). Half (53.6%) of the children had private insurance, and the median COI score was 64. A total of 28 children were transplanted from a very low‐to‐low COI area. Children in very low‐to‐low COI areas had worse patient (HR = 4.90, 95% CI = 1.41–17.04, p = 0.01) and graft (HR = 3.41, 95% CI = 1.19–9.75, p = 0.02) survival outcomes compared to children in moderate‐to‐very high areas when adjusting for clinical characteristics. COI score remained a significant predictor of graft survival after adjusting for race and insurance type (HR = 3.41, 95% CI = 1.12–10.40, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Pediatric liver transplant recipients from very low‐to‐low COI score areas have worse graft outcomes when accounting for clinical factors, race/ethnicity, and insurance status. Future research should investigate the impact of multiple, intersecting SDOH factors, rather than solely a collection of isolated variables.
Potato NPH3/RPT2‐like (NRL) member StNRL‐9 interacts with Stphots and negatively regulates late blight resistance
Authors: Lin Tianyu , Qiu Huishan , Cheng Dong , Sun Qingguo , Liu Lang , Tian Zhendong
Published: October 2024

Blue light enhances the susceptibility of Nicotiana benthamiana to Phytophthora infestans, a causative agent of late blight disease. Investigating how blue light affects potato late blight resistance is an interesting aspect of exploring new ways to control late blight disease. Blue light photoreceptor phototropins (phot1, phot2) and their downstream interact protein StNRL1 have been shown to negatively regulate late blight resistance. In order to investigate whether other potato NPH3/RPT2‐Like (NRL) family members are involved in regulating late blight resistance, this study focused on the potato NRL proteins containing RxSxS motif at the C‐terminus. Another potato NRL protein StNRL‐9, containing RxSxS motifs, was found to negatively regulate P. infestans resistance in potato and N. benthamiana. Overexpression of StNRL‐9 in potato and N. benthamiana suppresses the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and expression of the PTI marker genes NbWRKY7 and NbWRKY8. Similar to StNRL1, StNRL‐9 interacts with the blue light receptors Stphot1 and Stphot2 on the cell membrane and could promote the degradation of a positive immune regulator StSWAP70. However StNRL‐9 does not inhibit INF1‐mediated cell death (ICD), which is different from the StNRL1 that inhibits ICD, indicating that both StNRL1 and StNRL‐9 inhibit plant immunity in diverse ways. This study provides valuable information for further exploration of how plant phototropins and NRL family proteins regulate plant immunity.
Quantifying the contribution of individual inputs used in Zero Budget Natural Farming
Authors: Duddigan Sarah , Shaw Liz J. , Sizmur Tom , Hussain Zakir , Jirra Kiranmai , Kaliki Hamika , Sanka Rahul , Soma Reshma , Thallam Vijay , Vattikuti Hari Priya , Collins Chris D.
Published: October 2024

Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) in Andhra Pradesh promotes home‐made, locally sourced, agrochemical‐free inputs and regenerative land management techniques. Inputs consist of seed treatments (bijamrita), microbial inoculum applied either as a liquid foliar spray (liquid jiwamrita) or solid top dressing (solid jiwamrita) to the soil, and mulching (achhadana). However, some farmers do not use all the recommended inputs. There is a lack of evidence on the effects of partial adoption on the resulting yield and on the contributions of individual inputs to the performance of the overall approach. Controlled field experiments were established over two seasons across four agro‐climatic zones. They consisted of five treatments. A Standard ZBNF treatment, which included application of all four ZBNF amendments (bijamirita, solid jiwamrita, liquid jiwamrita and dead mulch). The subsequent four treatments excluded one of the ZBNF inputs (Minus Bijamrita, Minus Soilid Jiwamrita, Minus Liquid Jiwamrita, and Minus Dead Mulch). Exclusion of each ZBNF input individually resulted in a significantly smaller yield than the treatment where all four inputs were used. However, exclusion of solid jiwamrita, liquid jiwamrita and mulching had a larger yield penalty than exclusion of bijamrita. Partial adoption could therfore impact the efficacy of the ZBNF system to deliver sustainable crop yields and satisfy food security. However, further research is needed to examine the effects of input exclusion in the long term, and possible interactions between different ZBNF inputs.