bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary cinnamon promotes longevity and extends healthspan via mTORC1 and autophagy signaling
Authors: Guo Yuling , Zhang Qing , Zhang Bi , Pan Tong , Ronan Elizabeth A. , Huffman Anthony , He Yongqun , Inoki Ken , Liu Jianfeng , Xu X.Z. Shawn
Published: January 2025

Cinnamon, renowned for its aromatic flavor, represents one of the most widely used spices worldwide. Cinnamon is also considered beneficial to human health with therapeutic potential for treating various diseases, ranging from diabetes and cancer to neurodegenerative diseases. However, the mechanisms underlying cinnamon's health benefits remain elusive. It is also unclear whether cinnamon has any role in aging. Using C. elegans as a model, here we show that feeding worms cinnamaldehyde (CA), the active ingredient in cinnamon oil, prolongs longevity. CA also promotes stress resistance and reduces β‐Amyloid toxicity in a C. elegans model of Alzheimer's disease. Mechanistically, CA exerts its beneficial effects through mTORC1 and autophagy signaling. Interestingly, CA promotes longevity by inducing a dietary restriction‐like state without affecting food intake, suggesting CA as a dietary restriction mimetic. In human cells, CA exerts a similar effect on mTORC1 and autophagy signaling, suggesting a conserved mechanism. Our results demonstrate that dietary cinnamon promotes both lifespan and healthspan and does so by regulating mTORC1 and autophagy signaling.
I was wrong when I studied Russian nuclear weapons scientists
Authors: Gusterson Hugh
Published: January 2025

Having successfully completed fieldwork in a US nuclear weapons community, I went to Russia to interview a handful of the country's nuclear weapons scientists. Epistemologically, I made the mistake of viewing them more as variant weapons designers rather than as Russians. More seriously, I failed to think through in advance the risks to myself and to my human subjects of interviewing important national security personnel in an (until recently) enemy state where practices of surveillance and arbitrary detention were more salient than in the United States. This partly reflected a broader common sense in anthropology that focuses concern on vulnerable human subjects at the bottom of social structures, not on elites. In subsequent years the digitization of information has at least made it easier to conduct such fieldwork without carrying sensitive data across national borders.
Initiation of Anticoagulants During the COVID‐19 Pandemic in Sweden: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis
Authors: Samuelsen Per‐Jostein , Wettermark Björn , Nyberg Fredrik , Hajiebrahimi Mohammadhossein
Published: January 2025

The COVID‐19 pandemic may have increased anticoagulant initiation due to the thrombogenic nature of the disease or decreased due to the societal impact of the pandemic. We aimed to study the effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic on initiation of anticoagulants in Sweden. We conducted a single interrupted time series analysis on the monthly cumulative incidence of nonvitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOAC), warfarin, or heparins, before and after March 2020, using SCIFI‐PEARL dataset. For anticoagulants in total, there were no statistically significant changes or differences in the trends of initiation after the start of the pandemic. There was a slight numerical decrease in initiation after the onset of the pandemic, particularly for NOACs. For individuals aged ≥ 65 years, however, the immediate decrease in initiation was considerable for NOACs. The prepandemic declining trend of warfarin initiation seemed to attenuate, that is, became less negative, after March 2020. We did not find any profound effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the initiation of anticoagulants in total. However, among individuals aged ≥ 65 years, a notable immediate decrease in initiation of NOACs was observed. Furthermore, the onset of the pandemic may have attenuated the downward temporal trend in initiation of warfarin use.
Long‐term efficacy and safety of avatrombopag in Chinese children with primary immune thrombocytopenia: A real‐world observational study
Authors: Wang Nan , Wang Zhifa , Liu Jingjing , Hu Yu , Dong Shuyue , Chen Hui , Meng Jinxi , Ma Jingyao , Chen Zhenping , Cheng Xiaoling , Wu Runhui
Published: January 2025

Avatrombopag is a newly approved thrombopoietin receptor agonist for second‐line treatment of chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in adults. Our previous study showed its efficacy and safety in a small sample of paediatric ITP patients. However, large samples and long‐term data are still lacking. Children diagnosed with ITP and treated with avatrombopag for at least 4 weeks were enrolled. In 94 ITP patients with a median age of 7.43 (interquartile range (IQR), 4.82, 10.80) years, the median effective dose was 10 (IQR, 10, 20) mg for children under 6 years old and 20 (IQR, 20, 40) mg for children under 18 years old. The overall response was achieved in 72.3% (68/94) and 73.4% (58/79) of patients within 4 weeks and 12 weeks. The sustained response at 24 weeks and 48 weeks were 62.3% (33/53) and 51.6% (16/31) respectively. The occurrence of bleeding events, rescue therapy and concomitant ITP medication decreased during the follow‐up period. For safety, thrombocytosis (platelet count ≥400 × 109/L) was the most frequent adverse event (AE) observed in 44 children 97 times. Long‐term treatment with avatrombopag in ITP children showed a rapid and sustained platelet response and good bleeding control without significant or new AEs.
From denial to the power of saying no: The story of a sick child
Authors: Velt Johanna
Published: January 2025

In this article, I examine the work of the negative, in particular denial, through the case of a sick child and his family, and its transformations. A child's serious illness mobilizes the family group in particular to deny, in a collusive manner, breakdown and death anxieties. I hypothesize that Emile's serious illness shifted the family alliance from a narcissistic contract to a negative pact. However, according to several authors, the negative has a double significance and can be structuring. I will show how therapy and playing with this child encouraged the emergence of greater symbolization and the elaboration of the Oedipus complex, or how to move from a devastating, disorganising negative, a pure product of the death drive, to a structuring negative, where life drives and death drives become entangled. The analyst's investment in the child's psychic life allows the objectalising function to unfold, which, as this therapy shows, involves taking the sexual function into account. Narcissistic issues are also dealt with, in an intricate way.
Kinematics of Submarine Channels in Response to Bank Failures
Authors: Bouchakour Massine , Zhao Xiaoming , Gamboa Davide , Miclăuș Crina , McArthur Adam D. , Cao Shuchun , Yang Li
Published: January 2025

Submarine channel systems play a crucial role in the delivery of clastic sediments, organic carbon and pollutants across continental margins, and help define the stratigraphic architecture of deep‐sea fans and their associated reservoirs. These systems generate complex lateral migration dynamics and resulting sedimentary architectures, which are often overprinted by a variety of local factors. For example, the debris from channel‐wall collapses may block or restrict channel flow, thereby influencing the kinematics of stacking elements and the sinuosity of channels. Here, we investigate the responses of submarine channels to bank failures, using quantitative approaches from the Niger Delta Fulani Channel. Using 3D seismic data, we introduce a novel approach to interpreting the structural framework of channels, referred to as the structural gradient, which quantifies the relationship between sedimentary architecture and underlying structures. Bank failure mass transport deposits (MTDs) were characterised by downstream changes of cross‐sectional area and the proportion of collapsed material deposited. These parameters were used to correlate the responses of channel width, thickness, aspect ratio and lateral migration, as well as the channel planform parameters (i.e., sinuosity and meander amplitude) to the occurrence of flanking MTDs. Our results demonstrate that bank failures significantly influence channel sinuosity by causing localised swings in channel pathways, impacting the overall channel morphology and stratigraphic evolution. The relationships between all channel parameters depend on the ratios of bank failures, and locations of channel‐wall failures. The combined effects of bank failure confinement and structural growth control channel element stacking patterns, resulting in vertical stacks related to compensational relationships between adjacent channel complexes. Significant confinements by MTD emplacement led to rapid channel infill linked to progressive flow relaxation promoting progressive lateral mobility. Channel migration is limited by MTD accumulation to a maximum width of 1700 m. Channel lateral shift reacts to channel‐wall collapses, resulting in limited lateral mobility at regional scale. We show for the first time how the kinematics of submarine channels evolved in terms of the constraints of channel‐wall collapses and active structural deformation.
Prevalence and Characteristics of Chronic Hand Eczema Among Adults in Denmark: A General Population‐Based Study
Authors: Thein David , Maul Julia‐Tatjana , Ribero Simone , Silverberg Jonathan I. , Egeberg Alexander , Thyssen Jacob P.
Published: January 2025

Background

The epidemiology of chronic hand eczema (CHE) remains poorly examined.

Objective

To investigate the prevalence of CHE in a general adult population and describe the characteristics of affected individuals.

Methods

We investigated the prevalence and characteristics of CHE using a random sample from the general Danish population (The Danish Skin Cohort). CHE was defined as eczema on the hands or wrists during a minimum of three consecutive months or reoccurrence of hand eczema at least twice within 12 months.

Results

Out of 11 166 adults, 1306 experienced hand eczema (HE) at some point in their lifetime. Within the last 12 months, 408 (3.7%) experienced HE, of which 332 (81.4%) reported CHE. The crude 1‐year period prevalence of CHE was 3.0% (95% confidence interval (CI), 2.7%–3.3%) while the standardised prevalence was 3.5% (95% CI, 3.3%–3.6%). Among adults with CHE, 70.8% were female, and the mean age was 48.0 years (standard deviation 16.6 years). Most individuals with CHE had two relapses (n = 309, 93.1%), while n = 206, 61.1%, had HE for more than 3 months. Compared to HE, CHE was more likely diagnosed by a dermatologist and affect the fingers and back of the hand.

Conclusion

The standardised prevalence was 3.5% (95% CI, 3.3%–3.6%) and 4.2% (95% CI, 4.0%–4.4%) for CHE and HE, respectively. We identified a large overlap between HE and CHE (81.4%) in adults from the general population, indicating that many individuals affected by eczema on the hands may experience a chronic course.
Study Protocol of the Korean EGFR Registry: A Multicenter Prospective and Retrospective Cohort Study in Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer Patients With EGFR Mutation
Authors: Yeo Chang Dong , Park Dong Won , Yoon Seong Hoon , Kim Eun Young , Lee Jeong Eun , Lee Shin Yup , Choi Chang‐Min , Oh In‐Jae , Kim Do Jin , Ryu Jeong Seon , Lee Jae Cheol , Kim Young‐Chul , Jang Tae Won , Lee Kye Young , Jang Seung Hun , Kim Seung Joon ,   for the Korean EGFR Registry Investigators
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The provision of treatment for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐mutated nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients has increased in Korea. However, multicenter studies on the clinicopathologic dataset and treatment outcomes, using a large‐scale dataset, have not been conducted. The current study is a prospective and retrospective multicenter observational cohort study that registers all stages of EGFR‐mutated NSCLC patients.

Methods

The Korean EGFR Registry was designed to enroll 2000 patients with all stages of EGFR‐mutated NSCLC from 40 university hospitals across Korea. This study, encompassing both retrospective and prospective cohorts, aims to analyze clinical characteristics, treatment modalities, and outcomes in these patients. Data collection will include patient demographics, smoking history, quality of life assessments, pathological data, and treatment outcomes, with follow‐up until December 2026. The primary endpoint is disease‐free survival in patients who have undergone radical therapy (surgery and radiotherapy) or progression‐free survival in those receiving targeted therapy (first, second, and subsequent lines), chemotherapy (first and subsequent lines), combination therapy, and palliative/maintenance therapy according to stages of EGFR‐mutated NSCLC. The study will explore the diagnostic methods for EGFR mutations, clinical outcomes based on treatment modalities, and metastatic patterns in EGFR‐mutated NSCLC patients. Moreover, it will investigate various aspects, including the safety and efficacy of a new third‐generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), lazertinib, approved for both first‐ and second‐line treatments.

Discussion

This study is expected to provide valuable insights into the epidemiology, risk factors, progression, and treatment outcomes of EGFR‐mutated NSCLC in Korea. The Korean EGFR Registry will contribute significantly to the understanding of the complex dynamics of EGFR‐mutated NSCLC, aiding in the development of more effective and personalized treatment strategies.
Prediction of Cisplatin‐Induced Acute Kidney Injury Using an Interpretable Machine Learning Model and Electronic Medical Record Information
Authors: Ambe Kaori , Aoki Yuka , Murashima Miho , Wachino Chiharu , Deki Yuto , Ieda Masaya , Kondo Masahiro , Furukawa‐Hibi Yoko , Kimura Kazunori , Hamano Takayuki , Tohkin Masahiro
Published: January 2025

Predicting cisplatin‐induced acute kidney injury (Cis‐AKI) before its onset is important. We aimed to develop a predictive model for Cis‐AKI using patient clinical information based on an interpretable machine learning algorithm. This single‐center retrospective study included hospitalized patients aged ≥ 18 years who received the first course of cisplatin chemotherapy from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2020, at Nagoya City University Hospital. Cis‐AKI‐positive patients were defined using the serum creatinine criteria of the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes guideline within 14 days of the last day of cisplatin administration in the first course. Patients who received cisplatin but did not develop AKI were considered negative. The CatBoost classification model was constructed with 29 explanatory variables, including laboratory values, concomitant medications, medical history, and cisplatin administration information. In total, 1253 patients were included, of whom 119 developed Cis‐AKI (9.5%). The median time of AKI onset was 7 days, and the interquartile range was 5–8 days. The mean ± standard deviation of the total cisplatin dose in the initial treatment was 77.9 ± 27.1 mg/m2 in Cis‐AKI‐positive patients and 69.3 ± 22.6 mg/m2 in Cis‐AKI‐negative patients. The predictive performance was an ROC‐AUC of 0.78. Model interpretation using SHapley Additive exPlanations showed that concomitant use of intravenous magnesium preparations was negatively correlated with Cis‐AKI, whereas loop diuretics were positively correlated. This suggests the need for magnesium preparations to prevent AKI, although the effects of diuretics may be small. Our model can predict Cis‐AKI early and may be helpful for its avoidance.
Metabolic interventions as adjunctive therapies to insulin in type 1 diabetes: Current clinical landscape and perspectives
Authors: Podobnik Juliana , Prentice Kacey J.
Published: January 2025

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is classically characterized as an autoimmune disease wherein the immune system erroneously attacks insulin‐producing pancreatic β‐cells, causing insulin insufficiency and severe metabolic dysregulation. However, intensive investigation and numerous clinical trials with immunotherapies have been largely unable to significantly alter the course of disease. Currently, there is no effective way to prevent or cure T1D, and insulin remains the cornerstone of T1D treatment. In recent years, a growing body of research suggests that β‐cells actively contribute to the immune response and to disease development. Factors including glucotoxicity, lipotoxicity, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and oxidative stress can induce β‐cell apoptosis and senescence, further promoting insulitis. Recent studies highlight the importance of targeting metabolic control for T1D management and treatment. Metabolic interventions, through their direct and indirect impacts on β‐cells, have shown promise in preserving β‐cell function. These interventions can reduce glucose toxicity, alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation, enhance insulin sensitivity, and indirectly mitigate the autoimmune responses. By preserving β‐cell function, individuals with T1D attain better glycaemic control, reduced complication risks and exhibit improved overall metabolic health. Here, we provide an overview of insights from clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta‐analyses that collectively demonstrate that adjunctive metabolic interventions can enhance glycaemic control, reduce insulin requirements and mitigate adverse effects associated with insulin monotherapy. They also show potential for halting disease progression, preserving residual β‐cell function and improving long‐term outcomes for newly diagnosed individuals. Future research should focus on optimizing these treatment strategies and establishing their long‐term efficacy and safety.
Where Are We With Gender Parity in Academia and Professional Societies? A Multinational Look at Women in Soil Science
Authors: Brevik Eric C. , Krzic Maja , Elbasiouny Heba , Dawson Lorna , Hannam Jacqueline A. , Mbila Monday , Reyes‐Sánchez Laura Bertha , Coles Natalie
Published: January 2025

Issues of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), including gender equity, have gained increasing recognition at the beginning of the 21st century. As an academic discipline, soil science has been late in addressing gender equity, but several peer‐reviewed studies have been published in the last 5 years. This study investigated gender equity in the soil science university faculty/academic staff (f/as) and soil professional societies in Canada, Egypt, Mexico, Nigeria, the United Kingdom and the United States of America (USA) using data publicly available on the Internet and anonymized data from soil science professional societies. We found that women still lagged behind men among our soil science f/as by considerable margins (69.2% men vs. 30.8% women for pooled data for all six countries in this study), and that the percentage of women in soil science f/as positions are similar to those for f/as women in many other scientific fields. There are differences in gender equity by soil science subdiscipline that vary by country. In countries where data are available to make comparisons, over the last 6–8 years, the gender gap has closed to some degree, both overall and for sub‐disciplines. Women also often hold leadership positions in numbers that are lower than their representation among the f/as and membership in professional societies. In addition, women are recognised with awards such as society fellowship in numbers lower than their overall representation would suggest. This study concludes that progress has been made on several fronts in the last 6–8 years, but there is still much work to be done to achieve gender equity in soil science academia and professional societies. It is recommended that soil science societies collect, analyse and compare data on gender in the discipline so that progress can be evidenced, tracked and encouraged.
Substantia nigra degeneration in spinocerebellar ataxia 2 and 7 using neuromelanin‐sensitive imaging
Authors: Chougar Lydia , Coarelli Giulia , Lejeune François‐Xavier , Ziegner Pia , Gaurav Rahul , Biondetti Emma , Sayah Sabrina , Hilab Rania , Dagher Alain , Durr Alexandra , Lehéricy Stéphane
Published: January 2025

Objective

Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA) are neurodegenerative diseases with widespread lesions across the central nervous system. Ataxia and spasticity are usually predominant, but patients may also present with parkinsonism. We aimed to characterize substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) degeneration in SCA2 and 7 using neuromelanin‐sensitive imaging.

Methods

Ataxic and preataxic expansion carriers with SCA2 (n=15) and SCA7 (n=15) and healthy controls (n=10) were prospectively recruited. Volume and signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) values of the SNc were extracted from neuromelanin‐sensitive images. ROC curves were used to determine the metrics that best differentiated SCA participants. Correlations between imaging measurements, clinical variables, and plasma neurofilaments light chain (NfL) levels were investigated.

Results

SCA2 participants had lower SNR values in the SNc than controls (110.2 ± 1.3 versus 113.2 ± 1.4; p < 0.001) and those with SCA7 (112.5 ± 2.1; p < 0.01). SNR in SCA7 participants and controls did not differ. In ataxic patients, SNc volumes were lower in SCA2 (0.13 ± 0.04; p = 0.06) and SCA7 (0.10 ± 0.03, p = 0.02) patients compared to controls (0.17 ± 0.04). Signal decrease was detected at the preataxic stage in SCA2, but not in SCA7. SCA2 participants showed prominent involvement of the associative and limbic nigral territories. SNR discriminated ataxic and preataxic SCA2 participants from controls (AUC ≥0.94). SNc volume differentiated ataxic SCA7 participants from controls (AUC = 1), but not preataxic ones. In SCA7, correlations were observed between SNc volume and time to onset, CAG repeats, clinical severity scores, and NfL.

Conclusions

Neuromelanin‐sensitive imaging provides biomarkers of nigral degeneration in SCAs, detectable from the preataxic stage in SCA2, which could potentially serve as outcome measures in clinical trials.
Clot signature in patients with large vessel occlusion stroke and concomitant active cancer
Authors: Woock Malin , Rossi Rosanna , Jabrah Duaa , Douglas Andrew , Redfors Petra , Nordanstig Annika , Tatlisumak Turgut , Ceder Erik , Dunker Dennis , Carlqvist Jeanette , Szikora István , Tsivgoulis Georgios , Psychogios Klearchos , Magoufis Georgios , Rentzos Alexandros , Doyle Karen M. , Jood Katarina
Published: January 2025

Background and Purpose

Patients with active cancer face an increased risk of ischemic stroke. Also, stroke may be an initial indicator of cancer. In patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke treated with thrombectomy, analysis of the clot composition may contribute new insights into the pathological connections between these two conditions.

Methods

We compared the content of 64 consecutively retrieved clots from LVO stroke patients with concomitant active cancer and 64 clots from matched‐control LVO stroke patients without a history of cancer. Clots were analyzed with respect to histological composition by Martius Scarlet Blue, von Willebrand factor (vWF), citrullinated histone H3 (H3Cit, a biomarker of NETS), CD42b, and CD3 expression by immunohistochemistry. Orbit Image Analysis was used for quantification. Differences between groups were tested using the Mann–Whitney U‐test and Chi‐square Test.

Results

Clots from patients with concomitant cancer had a significantly higher content of vWF (median 26 [IQR13‐38]% vs. 10 [4–18]%, p < 0.0001) and H3Cit (median 0.11 [IQR0.02–0.46]% vs. 0.05 [0.00–0.28]% p = 0.027) than controls. The presence of collagen >1% within the retrieved clots was highly indicative of cancer, occurring in 16/64 with active cancer and in 3/64 controls, p = 0.002. After correction for multiple comparisons, the statistical significance for H3Cit was lost. Red and white blood cells, platelets, fibrin, and expression of CD3 and CD42b did not differ between the groups.

Conclusions

Clots from LVO patients with concomitant active cancer possess distinct characteristics, indicating an influence of cancer on the innate immune system, fibroblasts, and the vascular endothelium in the formation of LVO clots.
Predicting Climate Mitigation Through Carbon Burial in Blue Carbon Ecosystems—Challenges and Pitfalls
Authors: Kristensen Erik , Flindt Mogens R. , Quintana Cintia O.
Published: January 2025

The concept of “blue carbon” is, in this study, critically evaluated with respect to its definitions, measuring approaches, and time scales. Blue carbon deposited in ocean sediments can only counteract anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions if stored on a long‐term basis. The focus here is on the coastal blue carbon ecosystems (BCEs), mangrove forests, saltmarshes, and seagrass meadows due to their high primary production and large carbon stocks. Blue carbon sequestration in BCEs is typically estimated using either: 1. sediment carbon inventories combined with accretion rates or 2. carbon mass balance between input to and output from the sediment. The inventory approach is compromised by a lack of accurate accretion estimates over extended time periods. Hence, short‐term sedimentation assays cannot be reliably extrapolated to long timescales. The use of long‐term tracers like 210Pb, on the other hand, is invalid in most BCEs due to sediment mobility by bioturbation and other physical disturbances. While the mass balance approach provides reasonable short‐term (months) estimates, it often fails when extrapolated over longer time periods (> 100 years) due to climatic variations. Furthermore, many published budgets based on mass balance do not include all relevant carbon sources and sinks. Simulations of long‐term decomposition of mangrove, saltmarsh (Spartina sp.), and eelgrass (Zostera sp.) litter using a 3‐G exponential model indicate that current estimates of carbon sequestration based on the inventory and mass balance approaches are 3–18 times too high. Most published estimates of carbon sequestration in BCEs must therefore be considered overestimates. The climate mitigation potential of blue carbon in BCEs is also challenged by excess emissions of the GHG methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) from biogenic structures in mangrove forests and saltmarsh sediments. Thus, in many cases, carbon sequestration into BCE sediments cannot keep pace with the simultaneous GHG emissions in CO2 equivalents.
Investigation of brain volume changes associated with aging: Results from the fourth research on osteoarthritis/osteoporosis against disability survey
Authors: Nakajima Koji , Ogawa Akitoshi , Kodama Hiroyasu , Shirokoshi Tomohiko , Osada Takahiro , Konishi Seiki , Horii Chiaki , Oshima Yasushi , Iidaka Toshiko , Muraki Shigeyuki , Oka Hiroyuki , Kawaguchi Hiroshi , Akune Toru , Hashizume Hiroshi , Yamada Hiroshi , Yoshida Munehito , Nakamura Kozo , Shojima Masaaki , Tanaka Sakae , Yoshimura Noriko
Published: January 2025

Aim

This study aims to investigate the impact of aging on brain volume among community residents in Japan, focusing on trends over time and specific brain structures.

Methods

We analyzed data from the fourth survey (2015–2016) of the Research on Osteoarthritis/Osteoporosis Against Disability project, encompassing 2146 community residents from Japan's mountainous and coastal regions. A total of 1755 participants (81.8% of the baseline population) underwent extensive data collection including lifestyle and health questionnaires, anthropometric measurements and brain magnetic resonance imaging. The imaging data were processed to examine correlations between total brain volume, gray matter volume (GMV), white matter volume (WMV), cerebrospinal fluid volume and participant age.

Results

Analysis showed significant sex differences in total brain volume, with GMV demonstrating a strong negative correlation with age – more pronounced than the moderate negative correlation seen in WMV. Cerebrospinal fluid volume exhibited a strong positive correlation with age. Notably, specific brain regions such as the bilateral amygdala, hippocampus, thalamus and primary motor cortex showed significant age‐related volume reductions.

Conclusion

This study confirms that GMV and WMV are smaller in older individuals in the Japanese population, with more pronounced differences in GMV. The amygdala, hippocampus, thalamus and primary motor cortex were particularly affected. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 279–286.
Neural correlates of age‐related hearing loss: An MRI and FDG‐PET study
Authors: Sakurai Ryota , Kim Yuri , Nishinakagawa Maki , Hinakura Keigo , Fujiwara Yoshinori , Ishii Kenji
Published: January 2025

Aim

Age‐related hearing loss (ARHL) is a common problem among older adults and contributes to adverse health outcomes such as cognitive impairment. However, the neural mechanisms underlying ARHL remain unclear. We aimed to reveal the structural and metabolic (i.e., neural activity) correlates of ARHL using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography with 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG‐PET).

Methods

A total of 162 community‐dwelling older adults without cerebral disorders or cognitive impairment (Mini‐Mental State Examination score < 24) were included in this study. Auditory acuity was measured using a pure‐tone average (PTA) of hearing thresholds for the better‐hearing ear for 0.5–4‐kHz tones. ARHL was defined as a PTA of >40 dB (i.e., greater than moderate hearing loss). The participants then underwent MRI and FDG‐PET at rest to assess changes in brain structure and activity associated with ARHL.

Results

Among the 162 participants, 27 (16.6%) had ARHL. A region‐of‐interest analysis focusing on the bilateral superior temporal gyrus showed significantly lower glucose metabolism in this region, including in the auditory cortex (BA 41 and 42), in participants with ARHL than in those without ARHL. In contrast, no significant structural differences were observed between the groups.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that, prior to structural changes, the effects of ARHL may manifest in neural activity, which is strongly reflected in the regions involved in auditory processing. It is possible that ARHL first alters neural activity in auditory‐related regions owing to reduced auditory stimulation. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 300–306.
The long‐term effects of a school‐based intervention on preventing childhood overweight: Propensity score matching analysis within the Generation R Study cohort
Authors: Mölenberg Famke J. M. , Smit Michel S. , Nieboer Daan , Voortman Trudy , Jansen Wilma
Published: January 2025

Background

This study investigated the long‐term impact of the primary school‐based multicomponent lifestyle intervention “Lekker Fit!” (LF) on obesity‐related outcomes, and studied whether the impact differed between population subgroups.

Methods

Children from the Generation R Study (Rotterdam, the Netherlands) were categorized into the LF group (6 years exposure, between the ages 6/7 to 12/13 years) or regular school group (no exposure). BMI and DXA‐derived fat mass were assessed after 4 years of intervention (age 10 years), and 1.5 years post‐intervention (age 14 years). A propensity score matching model was fitted to examine the intervention effect on BMI‐z‐score and percent fat mass, and we tested for differences by sex, pre‐intervention weight status, ethnic background, and income.

Results

We found no effect on BMI‐z‐score [0.06 (95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.04 to 0.17)] and percent fat mass (0.4%‐point [95% CI: −0.2 to 1.1]) after 4 years of intervention. 1.5 years post‐intervention and after 6 years of exposure, BMI‐z‐score (0.11 [95% CI: 0.00–0.22]) and percent fat mass (1.1%‐point [95% CI: 0.2–1.9]) were significantly higher for children in the LF group. No subgroup differences were found.

Conclusion

Findings suggest the need for obesity prevention programs that extend beyond primary education.
Rotors Wind Wall Enabled Microclimate Engineering for Enhanced Rice Leaf Morphometrics Traits, Yield and Agronomic Performance
Authors: Imran  , Ke Liang , Dong Liu , Li HuiFen , Li Jiyu
Published: January 2025

An exploratory investigation into the effects of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) airflow on microclimate engineering in rice cultivation reveals novel insights, with a specific emphasis on wind temperature and velocity dynamics during critical growth stages. This research highlights diurnal fluctuations in wind temperature and speed during the critical rice growth stages (heading, panicle and flowering). ‘Results revealed that wind wall running or UAV flying in the morning (9:00 am) produces a stable temperature of 29.31°C (σ = 0.26017) supported pollination during the heading stage’. However, by noon, increased variability caused a slight temperature drop to 29.11°C (σ = 0.26749), raising the risk of heat stress. Afternoon temperatures remained steady at 29.18°C but exhibited the highest variability (σ = 0.27663), signalling potential microclimate disruptions that could reduce grain yield. ‘Wind‐speeds followed a clear diurnal pattern, rising by 33.33% from morning (1.2 m s−1) to noon (1.6 m s−1) and dropping by 37.5% in the afternoon’. ‘This emphasizes the importance of precise UAV operation timing, aligning rotor schedules with natural wind dynamics to achieve an 18.2% increase in crop yield and 25.8% reduction in thermal stress’. Microclimate mapping revealed significant diurnal fluctuations in wind temperature and speed, particularly around noon and afternoon, posing risks of heat and mechanical stress. During the heading stage, temperatures increased by 0.86% from morning (29.15°C) to noon (29.45°C), while wind‐speeds at noon peaked at 2.0–2.5 m s−1, a 100%–150% rise from morning levels. While this improved air circulation, it also introduced the risk of mechanical stress during critical pollination periods. During the heading stage, leaf shape index (LSI) remained stable with minor fluctuations (3.27–3.29), but during the panicle stage, LSI rose by 44% from morning (2.08) to noon (3.01), and then dropped by 31% in the afternoon (2.06). At the flowering stage, LSI remained steady at 3.01–3.02. Leaf number plant−1 increased by 6.5% during the panicle stage, while leaf length grew by 16% at the flowering stage, highlighting the positive impact of microclimate‐engineering by UAV airflow on rice growth. Leaf water content surged by 65% during the heading stage, from morning (0.40) to noon (0.66). Specific Leaf Area (SLA) was most sensitive during the panicle stage, peaking at 211.13 cm2 g−1 at noon, an 81.4% increase. UAV rotor airflow significantly improves microclimatic conditions during panicle and flowering stages, benefiting crop growth. Further investigation is needed to explore optimal UAV applications and understand interactions between UAV airflow, crop varieties and environmental factors.
TPD52 as a Therapeutic Target Identified by Machine Learning Shapes the Immune Microenvironment in Breast Cancer
Authors: Xia Jie , Zhou Xudong
Published: January 2025

Breast cancer (BRCA) is one of the most common malignancies and a leading cause of cancer‐related mortality among women globally. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment, the heterogeneity of BRCA presents significant challenges for effective management and prognosis. Recent studies emphasise the critical role of the tumour microenvironment, particularly immune cells, in influencing tumour behaviour and patient outcomes. This study uses machine learning–based methodologies to investigate the role of tumour protein D52 (TPD52) as a pivotal immune regulator in BRCA. We employed single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) to characterise the immune landscape of breast tumours and identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with TPD52. Our findings indicate that TPD52 may modulate immune cell infiltration and the tumour immune landscape, impacting tumour aggression and patient survival. Furthermore, we performed in vitro validation to elucidate the functional implications of TPD52. By integrating computational analysis with experimental validation, this research highlights TPD52's potential as a biomarker for therapeutic intervention and provides insights into its role in immune regulation within the BRCA microenvironment.
Association of Gingival Thickness With Incisor Morphological Characteristics and Papilla Height: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Koukos G. , Kyriakou E. , Malamoudi G. A. , Wierichs R. J. , Pandis N. , Kloukos D.
Published: January 2025

Objective

The aim of the current study was to examine possible associations between gingival thickness and other parameters, such as crown length and width, papilla height and patient's age and gender.

Overview

This cross‐sectional study included 238 consecutive white Caucasian consecutive patients in all stages of orthodontic treatment (before, in‐course, and after orthodontic treatment). Measurements of gingival thickness were carried out at both central mandibular incisors, mid‐facially on the buccal aspect of each tooth, and 2 mm apically to the free gingival margin, with an Ultrasound device. Each patient was scanned with an intraoral 3D scanner before gingival thickness evaluation, where papilla height, and central mandibular and maxillary incisor crown length and width were measured.

Conclusions

Significant (positive) association between gingiva thickness and patient's age and gender were found, with thicker gingiva being observed in older individuals and males. However, no significant association were found between gingival thickness and crown length, crown width, or papilla height.

Clinical Significance

Variations in soft and hard tissue architecture significantly impact the long‐term aesthetic outcomes of periodontal therapy, prosthetic and implant restorations, and root coverage treatments. Accurately assessing gingival biotype phenotype during treatment planning is critical to prevent complications, particularly in aesthetically sensitive areas.
Peri‐implant tissue definition and registration with a 3D‐printed emergence profile former on titanium stock healing abutment: A dental technique and clinical report
Authors: Azpiazu‐Flores Francisco X. , Siyootagrai Tisama , Elfana Ahmed , Yang Chao‐Chieh , Morton Dean , Lin Wei‐Shao
Published: January 2025

Recent focus has shifted toward refining the soft tissue emergence profile to enhance aesthetics, support peri‐implant health, and ensure long‐term success. Traditionally, titanium stock healing abutments or chairside‐customized abutments were used to shape peri‐implant tissues and develop the emergence profile for implant‐supported prostheses. However, advancements in digital dentistry now allow for more precise customization and increased treatment efficiency. This case report introduces a novel approach to shape the peri‐implant tissues using a 3D‐printed emergence profile former retained by a titanium stock healing abutment. The 3D‐printed emergence profile former reduced chairside time and simplified registering the gingival tissue contours and implant position with an intraoral scanner. Following removal, the peri‐implant soft tissues displayed enhanced volume buccally, creating an aesthetically pleasing restoration in a site with a notable horizontal tissue deficiency.
What cancers explain the growing rural‐urban gap in human papillomavirus‐associated cancer incidence?
Authors: Semprini Jason , Zahnd Whitney , Brandt Heather M.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause cancers of the genital system, anus/rectum, and oropharynx. Prior research showed that HPV‐associated cancer incidence was rising faster in nonmetro than in metro populations. Our study identified which cancers contributed to the widening disparity.

Methods

Representing ∼93% of all cancers in the United States, we analyzed data from the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries (2000‐2019). Restricting the analysis to HPV‐associated cancers, we compared 5‐year average age‐adjusted incidence rates (per 100,000 population) for nonmetropolitan (Rural‐Urban Continuum Codes 4‐9) and metropolitan populations, by sex and cancer site. To quantify the rural‐urban gap, we calculated rate ratios and absolute differences of incidence trends.

Results

Although incidence was similar in 2000‐2004 (nonmetropolitan = 9.9; metropolitan = 9.9), incidence in 2015‐2019 was significantly higher in nonmetropolitan (12.3) than metropolitan (11.1) populations. The gap was widest for cervical cancers (females) in 2015‐2019 (1.0 case per 100,000) but grew the most since 2000‐2004 in oropharyngeal cancers among males (+1.1 cases per 100,000). The nonmetropolitan rate ratios for females (RR = 1.15, 95% C.I. = 1.13, 1.17) and males (RR = 1.07, 95% C.I. = 1.05, 1.09) in 2015‐2019 were higher than the respective RRs for all other years. Since 2000, the nonmetropolitan disparity has significantly grown for anal and cervical cancers in females, and oropharyngeal cancers in both sexes.

Discussion

Although preventable, nonmetropolitan Americans have shouldered a growing burden of HPV‐associated cancers. To address these cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancer disparities, it is imperative that HPV vaccination programs are effectively implemented at scale.
Future Climate Change Scenarios of Increased CO2 and Temperature Strongly Affect a Coral Reef Meiobenthic Harpacticoid (Crustacea) Community
Authors: Sarmento Visnu Cunha , Pinheiro Bárbara Ramos , Montes Manuel Jesus Flores , Esteves André Morgado , Santos Paulo Jorge Parreira
Published: January 2025

Small metazoans, especially harpacticoid copepods, are an important component in the benthic food webs of benthic environments. However, studies on the effects of elevated CO2 and temperature on these animals are scarce and those that do exist focus mainly on the individual species level. A laboratory experiment was conducted to evaluate the impact of different climate change scenarios on a community of harpacticoid copepods from a coral reef environment. Samples were collected from the coral reef subtidal zone of Serrambi beach (Ipojuca, Pernambuco, Brazil), using colonized artificial substrate units. The units were exposed to control treatments and to three climate change scenarios and were collected after 14 and 29 days. A highly diverse community of harpacticoids was analyzed [H′(log2) = 4.37]. Changes in the community structure were observed, and the response of the copepod community structure to the different scenarios varied according to the sampling period. The maintenance of a highly diverse community enabled a complex pattern of responses to be observed at a species level with three different response patterns to the changing seawater conditions: sensitive species represented by Tisbe sp., Stenhelia sp. and Ameira sp.; mildly sensitive represented by Cyclopoida and Dactylopusia sp.; resistant or opportunist represented by Ectinosoma sp.1, Ectinosoma sp.2 and Mesochra sp. The increase in malformed adult animals in the most severe scenario indicated that species that do not suffer mortality are not exempt from sublethal symptoms. Harpacticoid organisms are shown as reliable tools to assess climate change in coral reef environments.
Researching gender and loneliness differently
Authors: Barreto Manuela , Doyle David Matthew , Maes Marlies
Published: January 2025

The majority of research on loneliness considers gender by comparing the loneliness reported by men and women. Drawing on current conceptualizations of gender and its effects, we propose alternative ways in which gender should be examined in relation to loneliness. To do so, we consider multiple gender‐related factors and the role of the social environment, particularly societal ideologies about what gender is and how it should be expressed. We provide examples of how this expanded conceptualization can contribute to an improved understanding of loneliness by focusing on the impact of gender nonconformity, gendered life experiences, and couple relationships. We highlight the need for more research and evidence to fill existing gaps in understanding. We conclude that the field can move forward by considering the role of biological sex, gender identity, gender expression, gender roles, gender relational experiences, and sexual orientation, as well as the social norms against which these are experienced. To truly examine the role of gender in loneliness, we need to consider the normative context where some, but not others, are minoritized and marginalized, as well as move beyond binary notions of gender to include those with nonbinary, transgender, and intersex identities.
Exploring the Influence of Oral and Gut Microbiota on Ulcerative Mucositis: A Pilot Cohort Study
Authors: Bartha Valentin , Boutin Sébastien , Schüßler Dorothée L. , Felten Anna , Fazeli Shila , Kosely Florentina , Luft Thomas , Wolff Diana , Frese Cornelia , Schoilew Kyrill
Published: January 2025

Aim

Comparing oral and gut microbiome profiles between patients with and without ulcerative mucositis during allogeneic stem cell transplantation (aSCT).

Materials and Methods

Specimens from oral mucosa, saliva, and stool were collected pre‐(T0) and post‐ (T0 +28d ± 14d) aSCT (T1). Microbiome structure differences were analyzed by 16S‐rRNA‐gene sequencing, and associations to patients' clinical characteristics were investigated.

Results

Ten of 25 included patients developed ulcerations. The α‐diversity decreased between T0 and T1, independent of ulcerations. PERMANOVA revealed differences in beta diversity between T1 stool samples from patients with and without ulcerations. At T1, saliva samples of patients with ulcerations showed an increase of Mycoplasma salvarius, while commensals decreased in saliva and mucosal swabs. The gut microbiome of both groups showed an overabundance of Enterococcus spp., associated with inflammatory conditions. Salival α‐diversity of older and overweight patients decreased slower, whereas in mucosal swabs mucositis or impaired renal function was associated with a higher decline. Female gender and history of periodontitis were associated with increased stool microbiome changes, while self‐reported probiotics intake was related to reduced changes.

Conclusions

Ulcerations appeared in 40% of the patients. Distinct microbial changes, including increased abundance of Mycoplasma salivarius in saliva and decreased abundance of commensals, marked those with ulcerations.

Trial Registration

The study was registered in the German Register for Clinical Studies (DRKS00032882)
HUMAN AGENCY IN DIVERSE ECOSYSTEMS: DYNAMICS OF CONTINUITY AND TRANSFORMATION IN SOUTH‐EAST ITALY DURING THE COPPER AND BRONZE AGES
Authors: Lucci Enrico
Published: January 2025

This paper investigates the changing cultural landscapes of south‐east Italy between the fourth and second millennia BC, a period that saw profound transformations in sociocultural spheres in the Central Mediterranean. It highlights the intertwined cultural and environmental processes that shaped the inhabited landscape during this period, integrating available environmental and economic studies to understand the changing human‐environment interplay in a spatial perspective.

The constructed dataset is based on an extensive survey of scholarly literature, including both excavated sites and those identified through surface collections in open‐air contexts, potentially representing stable or temporary settlements. This dataset enabled the exploration of the types of ecosystems, ecological niches and places chosen by these communities to meet their subsistence and extra‐subsistence economic needs.

Utilizing different computational methods and data visualization techniques, this analysis identified major shifts in settlement strategies from various spatial perspectives. Furthermore, the study offers new insights into the dynamics of culturally‐driven ecological niches and the construction, transformation and transmission of their social meaning in the Early Copper Age through to the Late Bronze Age.