bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical management of single-level thoracolumbar vertebral body segmentation and formation failure causing progressive thoracolumbar myelopathy in three adult large-breed dogs
Authors: Couto Francisca , Tabanez Joana , Rose Jeremy , Driver Colin
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the medium-term outcome following spinal cord decompression and instrumented fixation of single-level congenital thoracolumbar vertebral malformations, characterized by combined failures of segmentation and formation, causing thoracolumbar myelopathy in three large-breed dogs.

Study design

This was a retrospective clinical study.

Animals

The animals involved in the study were three large-breed dogs.

Methods

Electronic patient records were retrospectively reviewed for adult large-breed dogs (>1 year) (>25 kg) with thoracolumbar myelopathy and a radiologic diagnosis of spinal cord compression associated with thoracolumbar vertebral malformation. The examination, diagnostic imaging, surgical management, and outcomes are described. The medium-term outcome was determined based on the neurological examination and follow-up imaging studies conducted up to 12 months post-operation.

Results

Three large-breed dogs were identified, presenting with progressive, non-painful T3–L3 spinal cord segment disease. Diagnosis was made using MRI and CT, which revealed single-level complex congenital vertebral malformation with combined failures of segmentation and formation in the T8–L1 region. Surgical management consisted of ventral cord decompression by bilateral mini-hemilaminectomy and partial corpectomy and vertebral fixation. Temporary postoperative neurological deterioration was observed in two cases. Follow-up was conducted at 6 weeks (examination) and 3 (examination), 6, and 12 months (examination and CT) postoperatively, and improved neurological function was confirmed, with all cases being ambulatory with persistent, mild paraparesis.

Conclusion

This retrospective study demonstrates the successful medium-term outcome following surgical management of complex thoracolumbar vertebral malformations in large-breed dogs.
Parallelizing the Computation of Grid Resistance to Measure the Strength of Skyline Tuples
Authors: Martinenghi Davide
Published: January 2025

Several indicators have been recently proposed for the measurement of various characteristics of the tuples of a dataset—particularly the so-called skyline tuples, i.e., those that are not dominated by other tuples. Numeric indicators are very important as they may, e.g., provide an additional criterion to be used to rank skyline tuples and focus on a subset thereof. We focus on an indicator of robustness that may be measured for any skyline tuple t: the grid resistance, i.e., how large-value perturbations can be tolerated for t to remain non-dominated (and thus in the skyline). The computation of this indicator typically involves one or more rounds of computation of the skyline itself or, at least, of dominance relationships. Building on recent advances in partitioning strategies allowing the parallel computation of skylines, we discuss how these strategies can be adapted to the computation of the indicator.
Effect of Acoustic Absorber Type and Size on Sound Absorption of Porous Materials in a Full-Scale Reverberation Chamber
Authors: Ikpekha Oshoke Wil , Simms Mark
Published: January 2025

The acoustic product development process, crucial for effective noise control, emphasises efficient testing and validation of materials for sound absorption in the R&D phase. Balancing cost-effectiveness, speed, and sustainability, the focus is on minimising excess materials. While strides have been made in reducing sample sizes for estimating random-incident absorption, challenges persist, particularly in establishing validity thresholds for smaller samples with increasing thickness, susceptible to potential overestimation due to edge effects. This study delves into analysing the absorption coefficients of widely used acoustic absorber types—polyester, fibreglass, and open-cell foam—in a full-scale reverberation chamber at Ventac, Blessington, and Wicklow. Demonstrating significant absorption above 500 Hz, these porous absorbers exhibit diminished effectiveness at lower frequencies. The strategic combination of these absorbers with different facings enhances their theoretical broadband absorption characteristics in practical applications. Moreover, the study assesses the validity threshold for reduced sample sizes, employing statistical analysis against ISO 354:2003 standard control samples of the absorber types. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) on material groups underscores the significant influence of frequency components and sample sizes on the absorption coefficient. The determined validity threshold for 12.8 sqm ISO 354 standard control size is 7.7 sqm for the 25 mm open-cell foam. Similarly, the validity threshold of the 12 sqm ISO 354 standard control size is 9.6 sqm for the 20 mm 800 gsm polyester, 7.2 sqm for the 25 mm fibreglass, and the vinyl black on 25 mm fibreglass.
Beyond the Hype: Ten Lessons from Co-Creating and Implementing Digital Innovation in a Rwandan Smallholder Banana Farming System
Authors: Adewopo Julius , McCampbell Mariette , Mwizerwa Charles , Schut Marc
Published: January 2025

The fourth agricultural revolution (or Agriculture 4.0) promises to lead the way to an agricultural sector that is smarter, more efficient, and more environmentally and socially responsible. Digital and data generating tools are seen as critical enablers for this transformation and are expected to make farming more planned, predictive, productive, and efficient. To make this vision a reality, agricultural producers will first adopt and use the technologies, but this is easier said than done. Barriers such as limited digital infrastructure, low (digital) literacy, low incomes, and socio-cultural norms are major factors causing sub-optimal access to and use of digital technologies among smallholder farmers. Beyond these use challenges of access and usage, limited evidence exists to support the notion that extant digital technologies add enough value to provide substantial benefits for targeted farmers. In this paper, we unravel insights from a six-year digital agriculture innovation project which was implemented to develop and deploy multi-modal digital tools for the control of a major banana disease. By reaching over 272,200 smallholder farmers in Rwanda through a smartphone app, unstructured supplementary service data, a chatbot, and other ancillary channels, we assessed various assumptions regarding intrinsic motivation, incentives, and skills retention among the target digital tool users. These insights suggest that embedding digital innovation requires intentional user-engagement, proper incentivization of next-users, and targeted communication to foster adoption. We present ten (10) salient, but non-exhaustive, lessons to showcase the realities of developing and delivering digital tools to farmers over an extended period, spanning from ideation, development, and testing to scaling stages. The lessons are relevant for a broad audience, including stakeholders across the digital innovation space who can utilize our experiential notes to guide the development and deployment of similar digital innovations for improved outcomes in smallholder farming systems.
A Strategic Management Approach to Reduce Pepper Weevil Damage to Jalapeño Pepper Plants with Conventional and Biorational Insecticides
Authors: Kanchupati Naga Mani , Seal Dakshina R. , Schaffer Bruce , Liburd Oscar E.
Published: January 2025

The pepper weevil (Anthonomus eugenii) is a major pest that causes significant economic damage to several species and cultivars of pepper, including jalapeño (Capsicum annuum var. jalapeño). Protecting pepper crops from this pest often necessitates the use of chemical insecticides. To enhance control measures and mitigate the risk of insecticide resistance in the pepper weevil, this study focused on determining the optimal timing and application intervals of thiamethoxam and isocycloseram and assessed the effectiveness of rotating these pesticides with biorational insecticides. The effectiveness of various spray intervals for thiamethoxam and isocycloseram, starting at the bloom stage and one week post-bloom, was also assessed on the management of pepper weevils. The spray intervals for each insecticide included foliar applications weekly, every two weeks, every three weeks initiated at the blooming stage, and every two weeks beginning one week after blooming. The application of thiamethoxam and isocycloseram starting at bloom at one-week (7.3 ± 0.9 and 0.6 ± 0.4) and two-week (7.3 ± 0.9 and 0.7 ± 0.2) intervals significantly reduced the number of pepper weevil-infested buds compared to the untreated control (18.3 ± 2.5 and 1.7 ± 0.2). Isocycloseram starting at bloom and rotated with azadirachtin + pyrethrins as well as isocycloseram rotated with azadirachtin + pyrethrins and thiamethoxam on a weekly basis had the lowest number of pepper weevil-infested buds, flowers, and fruits and higher marketable yield. These findings suggest that adopting foliar applications weekly or every two weeks starting at bloom, as well as the rotation of thiamethoxam and isocycloseram with biorational insecticides, can effectively reduce pepper weevil infestation and increase pepper yield.
Challenges and Insights in Absolute Quantification of Recombinant Therapeutic Antibodies by Mass Spectrometry: An Introductory Review
Authors: Döring Sarah , Weller Michael G. , Reinders Yvonne , Konthur Zoltán , Jaeger Carsten
Published: January 2025

This review describes mass spectrometry (MS)-based approaches for the absolute quantification of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), focusing on technical challenges in sample treatment and calibration. Therapeutic mAbs are crucial for treating cancer and inflammatory, infectious, and autoimmune diseases. We trace their development from hybridoma technology and the first murine mAbs in 1975 to today’s chimeric and fully human mAbs. With increasing commercial relevance, the absolute quantification of mAbs, traceable to an international standard system of units (SI units), has attracted attention from science, industry, and national metrology institutes (NMIs). Quantification of proteotypic peptides after enzymatic digestion using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) has emerged as the most viable strategy, though methods targeting intact mAbs are still being explored. We review peptide-based quantification, focusing on critical experimental steps like denaturation, reduction, alkylation, choice of digestion enzyme, and selection of signature peptides. Challenges in amino acid analysis (AAA) for quantifying pure mAbs and peptide calibrators, along with software tools for targeted MS data analysis, are also discussed. Short explanations within each chapter provide newcomers with an overview of the field’s challenges. We conclude that, despite recent progress, further efforts are needed to overcome the many technical hurdles along the quantification workflow and discuss the prospects of developing standardized protocols and certified reference materials (CRMs) for this goal. We also suggest future applications of newer technologies for absolute mAb quantification.
How Broadly Neutralising Antibodies Are Redefining Immunity to Influenza
Authors: Steventon Rebecca , Stolle Lucas , Thompson Craig Peter
Published: January 2025

Recent avian influenza outbreaks have heightened global concern over viral threats with the potential to significantly impact human health. Influenza is particularly alarming due to its history of causing pandemics and zoonotic reservoirs. In response, significant progress has been made toward the development of universal influenza vaccines, largely driven by the discovery of broadly neutralising antibodies (bnAbs), which have the potential to neutralise a broad range of influenza viruses, extending beyond the traditional strain-specific response. This could lead to longer-lasting immunity, reducing the need for seasonal vaccinations, and improve preparedness for future pandemics. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of these antibodies, their application in clinical studies, and both their potential and possible shortcomings in managing future influenza outbreaks.
Emerging Resistance and Virulence Patterns in Salmonella enterica: Insights into Silver Nanoparticles as an Antimicrobial Strategy
Authors: Gheorghe-Barbu Irina , Czobor Barbu Ilda , Dragomir Rareș-Ionuț , Marinaș Ioana Cristina , Stan Miruna Silvia , Pericleanu Radu , Dumbravă Andreea Ștefania , Rotaru Liviu-Iulian , Paraschiv Simona , Bănică Leontina Mirela , Pecete Ionuț , Oțelea Dan , Cristea Violeta Corina , Popa Mircea Ioan , Țânțu Marilena Monica , Surleac Marius
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: This study aims to characterize antibiotic resistance (AR) and virulence markers in Salmonella spp. isolated from Romanian outpatients’ stool samples. Methods: In 2019, community-acquired Salmonella strains were collected and identified using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, antibiotic susceptibility profiles have been determined with the MicroScan system, and soluble virulence factors were evaluated using specific culture media, while biofilm formation was quantified in 96-well plates. Molecular analysis targeted resistance genes for β-lactams (e.g., blaTEM and blaSHV); tetracyclines (e.g., tet(A)); sulphonamides; and quinolones, as well as virulence genes (e.g., invA, spvC, pldA, and held). Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed on 19 selected isolates. A silver nanoparticles (AgNPsol) alternative to conventional antibiotics was tested for effectiveness against multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates. Results: From the total of 309 Salmonella isolates (65.05% from children under 4 years of age) belonging to four subtypes and four serovars, 27.86% showed resistance to at least one antibiotic, most frequently to tetracycline, ampicillin, and piperacillin. The strains frequently expressed haemolysin (67%), aesculinase (65%), and gelatinase (62%). Resistance to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole was encoded by the sul1 gene in 44.83% of the strains and to tetracyclines by the tet(A) gene (59.52%). The ESBL genes blaTEM, blaSHV, and blaCTX-M were detected by PCR in 16.18%, 2.91%, and 0.65% of the strains, respectively. Additionally, 98.63% of the strains carried the invA marker, with notable positive associations between blaSHV, qnrB, and sul1 with spvC. Conclusions: The present findings revealed significant patterns in Salmonella isolates, subtypes, serovars, AR, and virulence, emphasising the need for continuous surveillance of Salmonella infections. Additionally, the potential of AgNPs as an alternative treatment option was demonstrated, particularly for paediatric S. enterica infections.
The Regulation of ROS and Phytohormones in Balancing Crop Yield and Salt Tolerance
Authors: Jiang Lei , Xiao Minggang , Huang Rongfeng , Wang Juan
Published: January 2025

Salinity affects crop growth and productivity, and this stress can be increased along with drought or high temperature stresses and poor irrigation management. Cultivation of salt-tolerant crops plays a critical role in enhancing crop yield under salt stress. In the past few decades, the mechanisms of plant adaptation to salt stress have been described, especially relying on ionic homeostasis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging, and phytohormone signaling. The studies of these molecular mechanisms have provided a basis for breeding new salt-tolerant crop germplasm and have facilitated the entry into the era of molecular breeding of salt-tolerant crops. In this review, we outline the recent progress in the molecular regulations underlying crop salt tolerance, focusing on the double-edged sword effect of ROS, the regulatory role of phytohormones, and the trade-off effects of ROS and phytohormones between crop yield and salt tolerance. A future challenge is to identify superior alleles of key salt-tolerant genes that will accelerate the breeding of high-yield and salt-tolerant varieties.
A Comparative Science-Based Viability Assessment Among Current and Emerging Hydrogen Production Technologies
Authors: Khalil Yehia F.
Published: January 2025

This research undertakes a comparative analysis of current and emerging hydrogen (H2) production technologies, evaluating them based on quantitative and qualitative decision criteria. The quantitative criteria include cost of H2 production (USD/kg H2), energy consumption (MJ/kg H2), global warming potential (kg CO2-eq/kg H2), and technology energy efficiency (%). The qualitative criteria encompass technology readiness level (TRL) and availability of supply chain materials (classified as low, medium, or high). To achieve these objectives, an extensive literature review has been conducted, systematically assessing the selected H2 production technologies against the aforementioned criteria. The insights synthesized from the literature provide a foundation for an informed, science-based evaluation of the potentials and techno-economic challenges that these technologies face in achieving the 1-1-1 goal set by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in 2021. This target aims for a H2 production cost of USD 1/kg H2 within one decade (by 2031), including costs associated with production, delivery, and dispensing at H2 fueling stations (HRSs). Also, the DOE established an interim goal of USD 2/kg H2 by 2026. This research concludes that among the examined H2 production technologies, water electrolysis and biomass waste valorization emerge as the most promising near-term solutions to meet the DOE’s goal.
Enhanced Hyperspectral Forest Soil Organic Matter Prediction Using a Black-Winged Kite Algorithm-Optimized Convolutional Neural Network and Support Vector Machine
Authors: Deng Yun , Xiao Lifan , Shi Yuanyuan
Published: January 2025

Soil Organic Matter (SOM) is crucial for soil fertility, and effective detection methods are of great significance for the development of agriculture and forestry. This study uses 206 hyperspectral soil samples from the state-owned Yachang and Huangmian Forest Farms in Guangxi, using the SPXY algorithm to partition the dataset in a 4:1 ratio, to provide an effective spectral data preprocessing method and a novel SOM content prediction model for the study area and similar regions. Three denoising methods (no denoising, Savitzky–Golay filter denoising, and discrete wavelet transform denoising) were combined with nine mathematical transformations (original spectral reflectance (R), first-order differential (1DR), second-order differential (2DR), MSC, SNV, logR, (logR)′, 1/R, ((1/R)′) to form 27 combinations. Through Pearson heatmap analysis and modeling accuracy comparison, the SG-1DR preprocessing combination was found to effectively highlight spectral data features. A CNN-SVM model based on the Black Kite Algorithm (BKA) is proposed. This model leverages the powerful parameter tuning capabilities of BKA, uses CNN for feature extraction, and uses SVM for classification and regression, further improving the accuracy of SOM prediction. The model results are RMSE = 3.042, R2 = 0.93, MAE = 4.601, MARE = 0.1, MBE = 0.89, and PRIQ = 1.436.
Comparing Bolt Implementation Methods in Vibration Testing for Accurate Dynamic Behavior Analysis
Authors: Back Jong Hyuk , Bae Jeong Bin , Kang Ji Hye , Kim Jung Jin
Published: January 2025

Vibration testing is crucial for understanding structural dynamics, yet conventional modeling of bolt connections often leads to significant inaccuracies. This study systematically compares six bolt connection methods—bonded, adaptive bonded, joint, beam, screw, and fixed bolt—using a finite element analysis of a headlamp vibration test jig. The six bolt connection methods were selected based on approaches adopted in previous studies. The experimental results identified the joint connection method as the most accurate, minimizing deviations in natural frequency to 7.6 Hz compared to experimental tests at 493.2 Hz, while bonded methods overestimated the frequency at 544.1 Hz due to excessive stiffness assumptions. Efficiency analyses highlighted bonded methods as the most computationally streamlined, offering preprocessing times as short as 30 s and shorter overall analysis times. These findings emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate bolt connection methods in the early design phase to ensure accurate natural frequency predictions and mode shape representations. Although this study does not consider bolt preload forces, the work shows the possibility of offering practical guidelines for improving the reliability and efficiency of vibration test jig designs by bridging the gap between analysis and experimental results.
A New Approach for the Utilization of Technical Egg Albumen Based on Acid–Thermal Coagulation
Authors: Saraliev Plamen , Balev Desislav , Vlahova-Vangelova Desislava , Kolev Nikolay , Dragoev Stefan
Published: January 2025

Technical albumen (TA) is liquid waste from egg processing enterprises and occupies a share of 10–15% of the waste. Proteins have the property at the isoelectric point of weakening their repulsive forces. This property is the basis of a TA recovery method using pretreatment to reduce moisture before drying. In this study, we present the results of a TA processing method using two types of citric and phosphoric acids based on thermal–acid coagulation as an alternative to spray drying. By analyzing physicochemical and microbiological indicators, the raw TA and the finished product are described. In this study, the characteristics of raw TA and its final product are presented. TA contains mainly water, fat, and protein, including all essential amino acids, all of the proteins of the egg white, and some of the yolk. Initially, TA is significantly microbiologically contaminated. A better yield was obtained when using citric acid 97.79% instead of phosphoric acid. The final dried egg product from TA has a protein content of 46% and a fat content of 33%. The dried egg products undergo changes in the lipid and protein fraction during storage, but the values remain low TBARS to 4 mg MDA/kg. Microbiological contamination has decreased due to a decrease in water activity to a level that meets the requirements of European legislation for the processing of animal by-products (ABPs) and uses as feed.
The First Seismic Imaging of the Holy Cross Fault in the Łysogóry Region, Poland
Authors: Roshdy Eslam , Marciniak Artur , Szaniawski Rafał , Majdański Mariusz
Published: January 2025

The Holy Cross Mountains represent an isolated outcrop of Palaeozoic rocks located in the Trans-European Suture Zone, which is the boundary between the Precambrian East European Craton and Phanerozoic mobile belts of South-Western Europe. Despite extensive structural history studies, high-resolution seismic profiling has not been applied to this region until now. This research introduces near-surface seismic imaging of the Holy Cross Fault, separating two tectonic units of different stratigraphic and deformation history. In our study, we utilize a carefully designed weight drop source survey with 5 m shot and receiver spacing and 4.5 Hz geophones. The imaging technique, combining seismic reflection profiling and travel time tomography, reveals detailed fault geometries down to 400 m. Precise data processing, including static corrections and noise attenuation, significantly enhanced signal-to-noise ratio and seismic resolution. Furthermore, the paper discusses various fault imaging techniques with their shortcomings. The data reveal a complex network of intersecting fault strands, confirming general thrust fault geometry of the fault system, that align with the region’s tectonic evolution. These findings enhance understanding of the Holy Cross Mountains’ structural framework and provide valuable reference data for future studies of similar tectonic environments.
Similarity of Overlap Functions and Robustness of Fuzzy Reasoning
Authors: Dai Songsong , Ruan Qiuchen
Published: January 2025

The overlap function has been extensively utilized across various fields. In this paper, we introduce the concepts of the similarity and δ-equality of overlap functions to measure the degree of similarity between two overlap functions. Subsequently, we examine the δ-equality of several operations on overlap functions, including meet, join, and weighted sum, to assess how these operations maintain the similarity. Finally, we discuss the robustness of fuzzy reasoning for FMP, FMT, and FHS models based on the δ-equality of the overlap functions.
Molecular Characterization of Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria Klebsiella variicola PSEG-1 Associated with Aporrectodea rosea Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Kerketta Vikash , Panda Amrita Kumari , Kerketta Aseem , De Mandal Surajit , Bisht Satpal Singh
Published: January 2025

Phosphorus is a macronutrient crucially important for plant growth and development; its limited amount in soil and water poses bewildering concerns amongst agronomists. Externally applied phosphorus fertilizers can fulfil crops’ phosphorus needs throughout essential growth stages; however, the overapplication of phosphorus fertilizers leads to diminished phosphorus acquisition efficiency (PAE), disrupts the delicate balance of nutrients in soil and water, leads to deficiencies in other essential elements, poses significant environmental risks, and accelerates the loss of phosphorus mineral supplies. Moreover, much of the applied phosphorus may become fixed as insoluble phosphates by combining with calcium, iron, aluminum, manganese, etc., present in soil, making it unavailable for the plants. Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) can render insoluble phosphate accessible to plants by solubilization and mineralization, hence enhancing crop yields while ensuring environmental sustainability. Earthworms are vital soil invertebrates that interact continuously with soil and soil microorganisms and play an essential role in maintaining soil fertility. The present study aims to screen and identify potential phosphate solubilizing bacteria from the intestinal tract of the earthworm Aporrectodea rosea. The experimental results indicate that the strain PSEG-1 was effective in phosphate solubilization, with a solubilization index of 1.6 in Pikovskaya (PVK)’s medium. The strain produced organic acid in the National Botanical Research Institute (NBRIP)’s medium. Phenotypic and genotypic studies of the isolate showed that the strain PSEG-1 belongs to Klebsiella variicola. Our results suggest that the vermi-bacterial strain Klebsiella variicola PSEG-1 possesses intrinsic abilities to solubilize phosphate, which could be exploited for formulating potential microbial biofertilizers to enhance crop production.
Between Consecutive Fractures: Time and Sex as Dominant Factors in Type and Severity Concordance of Contralateral Hip Injuries
Authors: Leshem Neta , Stahl Ido , Khury Farouk , Simonovich Ianiv Trior
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Hip fractures present a global public health concern, with a forecasted rise in incidence and having associated increased mortality rates. This study aimed to investigate whether the AO Foundation/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) classification of a first hip fracture can predict the location and severity of a subsequent contralateral fracture. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated patients with non-simultaneous bilateral hip fractures between January 2000 and February 2021 and analyzed the type and severity of each fracture using the AO/OTA classification system, interval between fractures (TI), and patients’ characteristics, including sex, age at time of each fracture, and radiographic measurements of hip morphology. Results: The study included 182 fractures in 91 patients (68% women, mean age: 79.5 and 82.2 years at first and second fractures, respectively; mean TI: 975 days). A strong association (lambda = 0.437, p < 0.001) was demonstrated between the first and second fracture classifications, which was higher in men (lambda = 0.60, p < 0.001) and for TI < 3 years (lambda = 0.625–0.688, p < 0.001). The mean TI was significantly shorter between the first and subsequent identical fractures than between different fracture types. However, mean hip morphological features did not significantly differ between groups. Conclusions: The initial hip fracture classification significantly predicted the type and severity of a subsequent contralateral fracture, particularly within 3 years and in men. Providing appropriate patient guidance and preventive measures is crucial, particularly for those with primary fractures that are associated with higher morbidity and mortality. Specific fracture-focused interventions, such as preventive intramedullary nail fixation, should be considered.
Genetic Nurture Effects on Type 2 Diabetes Among Chinese Han Adults: A Family-Based Design
Authors: Li Xiaoyi , Zhou Zechen , Ma Yujia , Ding Kexin , Xiao Han , Wu Tao , Chen Dafang , Wu Yiqun
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Genes and environments were transmitted across generations. Parents’ genetics influence the environments of their offspring; these two modes of inheritance can produce a genetic nurture effect, also known as indirect genetic effects. Such indirect effects may partly account for estimated genetic variance in T2D. However, the well-established specific genetic risk factors about genetic nurture effect for T2D are not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the genetic nurture effect on type 2 diabetes and reveal the potential underlying mechanism using publicly available data. Methods: Whole-genome genotyping data of 881 offspring and/or their parents were collected. We assessed SNP-level, gene-based, and pathway-based associations for different types of genetic effects. Results: Rs3805116 (β: 0.54, p = 4.39 × 10−8) was significant for paternal genetic nurture effects. MRPS33 (p = 1.58 × 10−6), PIH1D2 (p = 6.76 × 10−7), and SD1HD (p = 2.67 × 10−6) revealed significantly positive paternal genetic nurture effects. Five ontologies were identified as enrichment in both direct and indirect genetic effects, including flavonoid metabolic process and antigen processing and presentation via the MHC class Ib pathway. Two pathways were only enriched in paternal genetic nurture effects, including the transforming growth factor beta pathway. Tissue enrichment of type 2 diabetes-associated genes on different genetic effect types was performed using publicly available gene expression data from the Human Protein Atlas database. We observed significant gene enrichment in paternal genetic nurture effects in the gallbladder, smooth muscle, and adrenal gland tissues. Conclusions: MRPS33, PIH1D2, and SD1HD are associated with increased T2D risk through the environment influenced by paternal genotype, suggesting a novel perspective on paternal contributions to the T2D predisposition.
Avolition Characterizes the Chronic Fatigue Experienced in Quiescent Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Gabriel-Segard Tristan , Boltri Margherita , Barrau Mathilde , Massoubre Catherine , Paul Stéphane , Roblin Xavier
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims: Avolition is a symptom responsible for a high burden in patients suffering from psychiatric diseases. It refers to a motivation loss for initiating and maintaining goal-directed activities, often called fatigue by patients. Fatigue is a widespread complaint of patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), significantly impacting patients’ well-being, even during the quiescent stage of the disease. We here address the hypothesis that fatigue experienced by IBD patients is associated with motivational impairment. Methods: Patients presenting IBD (n = 110) in a quiescent stage of Crohn’s disease (CD) (n = 60) and ulcerative colitis (UC) (n = 50) were enrolled and classified following their declared experience of fatigue (n = 58) or not (n = 52). Patients were phenotyped using self-administered scales for fatigue experience, bowel disease disability, quality of life and mental health symptoms. Results: The self-administered negative symptoms scale scores identified avolition as a specific feature of fatigue experience: fatigued vs. no-fatigue in the CD group (3.806 vs. 2.103; p = 0.003) and in the UC group (2.815 vs. 1.174; p = 0.003). This difference is independent of current depressive disorder and previous history of depressive disorder. Avolition associates and correlates with the experience of fatigue (r = 0.49) in multivariate analysis. Conclusions: To tackle the question of fatigue in IBD, research should consider investigating the biological mechanisms implicating intestinal physiopathology of IBD in the impairment of brain structure involved in motivation. This may open new fields for treatment in targeting structures of the brain reward system.
Fluorogenic Biosensing with Tunable Polydiacetylene Vesicles
Authors: Miller John S. , Finney Tanner J. , Ilagan Ethan , Frank Skye , Chen-Izu Ye , Suga Keishi , Kuhl Tonya L.
Published: January 2025

Polydiacetylenes (PDAs) are conjugated polymers that are well known for their colorimetric transition from blue to red with the application of energetic stimulus. Sensing platforms based on polymerized diacetylene surfactant vesicles and other structures have been widely demonstrated for various colorimetric biosensing applications. Although less studied and utilized, the transition also results in a change from a non-fluorescent to a highly fluorescent state, making polydiacetylenes useful for both colorimetric and fluorogenic sensing applications. Here, we focus on the characterization and optimization of polydiacetylene vesicles to tune their sensitivity for fluorogenic sensing applications. Particularly, we look at how the structure of the diacetylene (DA) hydrocarbon tail and headgroup affect the self-assembled vesicle size and stability, polymerization kinetics, and the fluorogenic, blue to red phase transition. Longer DA acyl tails generally resulted in smaller and more stable vesicles. The polymerization kinetics and the blue to red transition were a function of both the DA acyl tail length and structure of the headgroup. Decreasing the acyl tail length generally led to vesicles that were more sensitive to energetic stimuli. Headgroup modifications had different effects depending on the structure of the headgroup. Ethanolamine headgroups resulted in vesicles with potentially increased stimuli responsivity. The lower energy stimulus to induce the chromatic transition was attributed to an increase in headgroup hydrogen bonding and polymer backbone strain. Boronic-acid headgroup functionalization led to vesicles that were generally unstable, only weakly polymerized, and unable to fully transform to the red phase due to strong polar, aromatic headgroup interactions. This work presents the design of PDA vesicles in the context of biosensing platforms and includes a discussion of the past, present, and future of PDA biosensing.
Increased Growth Differentiation Factor 15 Levels Are Associated with HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Impairment: A Pilot Study
Authors: Boustani Ali , Ford Mary K. , Kulbe Jacqueline R. , Laird Anna E. , Shu Leeann , Spencer Matthew , Avalos Bryant , Walter Kyle C. , Ellis Ronald J. , Fields Jerel Adam
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment (NCI) remains a prevalent issue among people with HIV (PWH) despite advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART). The pathogenesis of HIV-associated NCI is linked to chronic neuroinflammation caused by HIV, even in those with successful viral suppression. Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF15), a protein involved in inflammatory and metabolic stress responses, has emerged as a key player and potential biomarker for various neurological conditions. This study investigates the relationship between GDF15 expression and HIV-associated NCI. Methods: PWH from the California NeuroAIDS Tissue Network (CNTN) underwent comprehensive neuropsychological exams within 12 months before death and were categorized based on cognitive performance. We examined GDF15 levels in their CSF (Cerebrospinal Fluid) and brain tissues using immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry, double immunolabeling, and ELISA. Results: The cohort was of a similar age across HIV-associated NCI statuses (mean = 40.5), with a predominance of males (77%). The mean plasma viral load was 3.56 log10 copies/mL for Neurocognitively Unimpaired (NUI) PWH and 5.38 log10 copies/mL for people with HIV-associated NCI. GDF15 protein levels were significantly elevated in the frontal cortices of PWH with NCI compared to NUI PWH. Conclusions: The findings indicate that GDF15 may play a role in the pathogenesis of HIV-associated NCI, possibly through neuroinflammatory mechanisms. The strong association between GDF15 levels and cognitive impairment severity suggests its potential as a biomarker for the early detection and monitoring of NCI in PWH.
The Impact of IT Strategic Planning Process on SME Performance: A Systematic Review
Authors: Molete Olebogeng B. , Mokhele Selloane E. , Ntombela Somquba D. , Thango Bonginkosi A.
Published: January 2025

Information technology (IT) strategic planning plays a pivotal role in enhancing the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), improving operational efficiency and decision-making, and fostering innovation. This systematic review aims to synthesize the impacts of IT strategic planning on SME performance, focusing on key performance indicators such as operational efficiency, cost reduction, and customer satisfaction. A total of 80 studies were rigorously analyzed. Quantitative methods were used in 45% of the studies, while 25% applied thematic analysis. The adoption of cloud-based solutions (11.25%) and hybrid IT setups (17.5%) were also evaluated as critical enablers of flexibility and cost-efficiency. SMEs aligning their IT strategies with business objectives demonstrated up to a 20% reduction in operational costs and a 15% increase in customer satisfaction. Resource constraints were identified as a significant challenge in 60% of the studies. Nevertheless, effective IT planning contributed to long-term sustainability and competitive advantage in 60% of the reviewed studies. This review provides actionable insights and strategic frameworks to guide SMEs in optimizing their IT investments, overcoming resource limitations, and ensuring sustainable growth.
Fluorination to Enhance the Tribological Properties of Carbonaceous Materials
Authors: Haddad Guillaume , Nomède-Martyr Nadiège , Bilas Philippe , Guérin Katia , Thomas Philippe , Delbé Karl , Dubois Marc
Published: January 2025

This review compiles data from 77 articles on the tribological properties of fluorinated carbons CFx. Covalent grafting of fluorine atoms improves the tribological properties. The C-F bonding plays a key role in reducing friction. The tribological stability of CFx, along with their ability to form protective films from the very first cycles, provides a significant advantage in reducing wear and extending the lifespan of mechanical components. The role of the presence of fluorine atoms, their content, their distribution in the carbon lattice, and the C-F bonding, as well as the dimensionality and the size of the materials, are discussed. Some ways of improving lubrication performance and investigating friction-reducing properties and mechanisms are proposed.
Symptoms and Side Effects of Bacille Calmette–Guerin Therapy for Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer as Reported by Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lahoud John , Okullo Alfin , Rutherford Claudia , Smith David P. , Costa Daniel S. J. , Tait Margaret-Ann , Sengupta Shomik , Patel Manish I.
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Knowledge of the symptoms and side effects (SSEs) of Bacille Calmette–Guerin (BCG) therapy for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) is critical when establishing selecting appropriate therapies for patients. The aim of our study was to systematically review the common patient-reported SSEs associated with BCG-based and other intravesical chemotherapy treatment options for NMIBC. Methods: A systematic search of AMED, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Knowledge, and Scopus was conducted from inception to July 2024. The PRISMA process was followed. Prospective studies with an adult cohort that assessed SSEs through direct patient reports with standardized patient-reported outcome measures were included in this study. A narrative synthesis was performed to compare the frequency of SSEs reported by treatment options. Statistical analysis was performed using chi square and Fisher’s exact tests, with statistical significance at p < 0.05. Results: Thirty-four studies met the eligibility criteria. The main findings indicated that BCG induction is more toxic than BCG induction with maintenance; however, severe SSEs resulting in treatment cessation occurred almost twice as often in patients on BCG induction with maintenance. Patients who received full-dose BCG were more likely to have SSEs compared to those receiving a low dose. BCG monotherapy alone caused more SSEs compared to BCG with chemotherapy. Patients reported more SSEs with BCG compared to chemotherapy alone for induction with maintenance. Limitations of the study include the varied length of maintenance regimes affecting nature of data reported. Conclusions: The findings of this study allow for improved counselling of patients regarding expected side effects in accordance with their recommended treatment options for NMIBC.
Expression Pattern of AIFM3, VGLL4, and WNT4 in Patients with Different Stages of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Bevanda Danijel , Racetin Anita , Kelam Nela , Filipović Natalija , Bevanda Mateo , Rudan Dimlić Marina , Budimir Jelena , Bevanda Glibo Daniela , Bevanda Ivana , Ramljak Danica , Vukojević Katarina
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant health burden, and its delayed diagnosis at advanced stages leads to poor survival outcome. Detection of known and novel prognostic markers is essential. In this study, the status of likely prognostic markers—the apoptotic inducing factor (AIFM3), vestigial-like family member 4 (VGLL4), and WNT4—was evaluated. Methods: AIFM3, VGLL4, and WNT4 expression in CRC tissues across different stages (Dukes A–D) were analyzed using histological immunofluorescence staining and RNA sequencing analyses. Results: In advanced CRC stages, progressive loss of normal crypt architecture, reduction of goblet cells, and necrotic debris were detected along with differential expression patterns of AIFM3, VGLL4, and WNT4. AIFM3 exhibited high reactivity in the lamina propria of healthy tissue and Dukes A, but this was diminished in advanced CRC stages. VGLL4 expression, initially confined to the lamina propria, increased significantly in the epithelium of Dukes B and C, with a cytoplasmic localization pattern. WNT4 expression was elevated in the CRC epithelium across all stages, contrasting with a significant reduction in lamina propria reactivity. RNA sequencing corroborated these findings, showing significant downregulation of AIFM3 and WNT4 and upregulation of VGLL4 in CRC tissues compared to controls. Expression of AIFM3 and WNT4 showed no correlation with survival outcome, while low VGLL4 expression was correlated with better survival outcome. Conclusions: The results suggest distinct roles for AIFM3, VGLL4, and WNT4 in CRC progression, highlighting only VGLL4 as a potential prognostic marker. Further evaluation of VGLL4 and its specific role in CRC progression remains to be elucidated.
A Scoping Review of Primary Breast Cancer Risk Reduction Strategies in East and Southeast Asia
Authors: Alpeza Filipa , Loo Christine Kim Yan , Zhuang Qingyuan , Hartman Mikael , Goh Serene Si Ning , Li Jingmei
Published: January 2025

Breast cancer (BC) screening enables early detection and timely treatment of cancer. Improving the effectiveness of BC screening can be accomplished by personalizing screening schedules according to each woman’s specific risk level. However, when informing women about their risk classification, especially those at high risk, it is important to give clear recommendations on how to lower their risk. BC risk reduction comprises lifestyle modifications, preventive surgery, and chemoprevention, with the latter two being particularly applicable to high-risk individuals. Public health guidance on risk-reducing interventions is heterogeneous and context-dependent. We conducted a scoping review on BC surgical interventions and chemoprevention in East and Southeast Asia in publications between 2010 and 2024. We searched two databases and identified 23 publications relevant for inclusion. The highest number of publications came from South Korea (n = 9). More publications discussed surgical interventions compared to pharmacological interventions. The studies were largely observational and utilized data from medical records. Most studies defined high-risk individuals as BRCA carriers, many of whom previously had cancer. The field would benefit from randomized studies of BC prevention strategies focusing on Asian populations. Future research could explore women’s sentiments towards chemoprevention compared to prophylactic surgery and could extend the definition of high-risk individuals beyond BRCA carriers.
The MCPH7 Gene Product STIL Is Essential for Dendritic Spine Formation
Authors: Matsuki Tohru , Tabata Hidenori , Ueda Masashi , Ito Hideaki , Nagata Koh-ichi , Tsuneura Yumi , Eda Shima , Kasai Kenji , Nakayama Atsuo
Published: January 2025

Dendritic spine formation/maintenance is highly dependent on actin cytoskeletal dynamics, which is regulated by small GTPases Rac1 and Cdc42 through their downstream p21-activated kinase/LIM-kinase-I/cofilin pathway. ARHGEF7, also known as ß-PIX, is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rac1 and Cdc42, thereby activating Rac1/Cdc42 and the downstream pathway, leading to the upregulation of spine formation/maintenance. We found that STIL, one of the primary microcephaly gene products, is associated with ARHGEF7 in dendritic spines and that knockdown of Stil resulted in a significant reduction in dendritic spines in neurons both in vitro and in vivo. Rescue experiments indicated that the STIL requirement for spine formation/maintenance depended on its coiled coil domain that mediates the association with ARHGEF7. The overexpression of Rac1/Cdc42 compensated for the spine reduction caused by STIL knockdown. FRET experiments showed that Rac activation is impaired in STIL knockdown neurons. Chemical long-term potentiation, which triggers Rac activation, promoted STIL accumulation in the spine and its association with ARHGEF7. The dynamics of these proteins further supported their coordinated involvement in spine formation/maintenance. Based on these findings, we concluded that the centrosomal protein STIL is a novel regulatory factor essential for spine formation/maintenance by activating Rac and its downstream pathway, possibly through the association with ARHGEF7.