bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical decision support tool‐guided, selective intensive induction strategy of ustekinumab in patients with Crohn's disease: A multicenter cohort study
Authors: Li Qing , Tang Jian , Huang Zhao Peng , Shi Li Shuo , Lyu Xiao Ping , Chen Xue Min , Chen Wen Ke , Xun An Ying , Guo Qin , Li Miao , Gao Xiang , Chao Kang
Published: December 2024

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of clinical decision support tool (CDST)‐guided initial selective intensive induction therapy (IIT) for patients with Crohn's disease (CD) who were treated with ustekinumab (UST) and to identify those most likely to benefit from IIT.

Methods

Patients with active CD were included in this multicenter retrospective study and were categorized as low‐, intermediate‐, and high‐probability responders according to the UST‐CDST. IIT was defined as intensive induction by two or three initial doses of weight‐based intravenous UST administration. Patients treated with standard therapy (ST) served as controls. The primary end‐point was corticosteroid‐free clinical remission (CFCR) at Week 24. Secondary end‐points included clinical remission, clinical response, endoscopic remission, endoscopic response, and C‐reactive protein (CRP) normalization at Week 24. Propensity score adjustments was conducted to ensure comparability.

Results

A total of 296 patients were included. At Week 24, IIT was associated with higher rates of CFCR (72.3% vs 43.0%, p < 0.001), clinical remission (77.3% vs 47.1%, p < 0.001), clinical response (78.1% vs 60.1%, p = 0.001), endoscopic remission (26.1% vs 9.9%, p = 0.024), and endoscopic response (58.6% vs 36.9%, p = 0.018) in low–intermediate‐probability responders compared with ST. CRP normalization was comparable between groups. No significant differences were found in any end‐points in high‐probability responders. No serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusion

The efficacy of IIT was superior to that of ST in patients with predicted poor response to UST, which may be regarded as a novel strategy for stratifying patients at baseline.
Sickle cell anaemia therapy in 2025
Authors: Schechter Alan N.
Published: December 2024

New pharmacological therapies for sickle cell anaemia have not been as efficacious as hoped, while widespread application of curative stem cell and gene therapies is not likely to occur soon. This situation raises the question about whether more attention now be devoted to the use of hydroxyurea in this disease.
Humanized anti‐CD25 monoclonal antibody replaces methotrexate as acute graft‐versus‐host disease prophylaxis in haploidentical allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Zhang Ao , Huang Zhenli , Zhang Ran , Wei Ruowen , Jiang Shan , Chen Hongru , Cao Xiena , Shi Wei , Xia Linghui , Hu Yu
Published: December 2024

Acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD) significantly affects quality of life and outcomes in patients post‐haploidentical haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo‐HSCT). Methotrexate (MTX) is commonly used to prevent aGVHD but can lead to complications like delayed haematological recovery and oral mucositis (OM). This study investigates the efficacy of anti‐CD25 monoclonal antibody (mAb) as a potential MTX alternative. Participants were divided into two cohorts: a single‐dose group (25 mg/day anti‐CD25 mAb with MTX) and a double‐dose group (50 mg/day anti‐CD25 mAb without MTX). The primary end‐point was the cumulative incidence (CI) of severe aGVHD by day 100. The double‐dose cohort demonstrated a significantly lower CI of total aGVHD (23.53% vs. 42.11%, p = 0.009) and grade 3–4 aGVHD (7.35% vs. 18.42%, p = 0.047). After inverse probability of treatment weighting adjustment, the adjusted HR of double‐dose compared with single‐dose cohort for total aGVHD was 0.47 (95% CI 0.26–0.86; p = 0.015), 0.42(95% CI 0.15–1.22; p = 0.110) for grade III–IV aGVHD, 0.45 (95% CI 0.26–0.77; p = 0.004) for total cGVHD and 0.36 (95% CI 0.18–0.72; p = 0.004) for the moderate to severe cGVHD. Additionally, this double‐dose regimen significantly reduced the incidence of oral mucositis and demonstrated lower rates of infections and haemorrhagic cystitis. These findings suggest that a double‐dose anti‐CD25 mAb regimen without MTX is a promising strategy for aGVHD prophylaxis in haplo‐HSCT (ChiCTR2200060184).
The Effect of Alcohol Consumption on Progressive Supranuclear Palsy: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Tian Min , Zhang Bohan , Liu Heyin , Han Yinlian , Yang Mu , Duan Ruonan , Guo Dandan , Song Chengyuan , Ma Jun , Liu Yiming
Published: December 2024

Aims

To investigate the effect of alcohol consumption on the clinical symptoms in a cohort of Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) patients.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study focusing on possible and probable PSP patients in Qilu Hospital of Shandong University. Diagnoses and clinical phenotypes were confirmed using the 2017 Movement Disorder Society criteria and the Multiple Allocations eXtinction (MAX) rules. Data on drinking habits and demographics were collected via face‐to‐face interviews and medical records reviews. Clinical scales assessed motor and nonmotor symptoms. Alcohol consumption was categorized into light, moderate, and heavy status. Using multivariate linear regression and adjusting for confounding factors, we analyzed the relationship between alcohol consumption and clinical symptoms.

Results

The study comprised 128 participants (59.4% male and 45.31% drinkers). Alcohol consumption has been associated with severe PSP clinical symptoms, particularly among male patients. Compared with nondrinkers, consumers of alcohol exhibit significantly more severe motor symptoms and cognitive impairments, particularly in the domains of visuospatial and executive abilities, memory, and language. Moreover, when categorizing individuals based on their intake of alcohol weekly, those with heavy consumption show significantly higher PSP Rating Scale (PSPRS) and the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) scores, as well as significantly lower Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA) and Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores compared to nonconsumers.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate an association between heavy alcohol consumption and more pronounced symptoms of PSP, especially cognitive function. It raises the possibility that alcohol intake may play a role in modulating the clinical course of PSP.
A Linguistic–Sensorimotor Model of the Basic‐Level Advantage in Category Verification
Authors: Wingfield Cai , van Hoef Rens , Connell Louise
Published: December 2024

People are generally more accurate at categorizing objects at the basic level (e.g., dog) than at more general, superordinate categories (e.g., animal). Recent research has suggested that this basic‐level advantage emerges from the linguistic‐distributional and sensorimotor relationship between a category concept and object concept, but the proposed mechanisms have not been subject to a formal computational test. In this paper, we present a computational model of category verification that allows linguistic distributional information and sensorimotor experience to interact in a grounded implementation of a full‐size adult conceptual system. In simulations across multiple datasets, we demonstrate that the model performs the task of category verification at a level comparable to human participants, and—critically—that its operation naturally gives rise to the basic‐level‐advantage phenomenon. That is, concepts are easier to categorize when there is a high degree of overlap in sensorimotor experience and/or linguistic distributional knowledge between category and member concepts, and the basic‐level advantage emerges as an overall behavioral artifact of this linguistic and sensorimotor overlap. Findings support the linguistic–sensorimotor preparation account of the basic‐level advantage and, more broadly, linguistic–sensorimotor theories of the conceptual system.
The Dual Roles of Lamin A/C in Macrophage Mechanotransduction
Authors: Wang Yao , Ruf Sabine , Wang Lei , Heimerl Thomas , Bange Gert , Groeger Sabine
Published: December 2024

Cellular mechanotransduction is a complex physiological process that integrates alterations in the external environment with cellular behaviours. In recent years, the role of the nucleus in mechanotransduction has gathered increased attention. Our research investigated the involvement of lamin A/C, a component of the nuclear envelope, in the mechanotransduction of macrophages under compressive force. We discovered that hydrostatic compressive force induces heterochromatin formation, decreases SUN1/SUN2 levels, and transiently downregulates lamin A/C. Notably, downregulated lamin A/C increased nuclear permeability to yes‐associated protein 1 (YAP1), thereby amplifying certain effects of force, such as inflammation induction and proliferation inhibition. Additionally, lamin A/C deficiency detached the linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex from nuclear envelope, consequently reducing force‐induced DNA damage and IRF4 expression. In summary, lamin A/C exerted dual effects on macrophage responses to mechanical compression, promoting certain outcomes while inhibiting others. It operated through two distinct mechanisms: enhancing nuclear permeability and impairing intracellular mechanotransmission. The results of this study support the understanding of the mechanisms of intracellular mechanotransduction and may assist in identifying potential therapeutic targets for mechanotransduction‐related diseases.
Update vulval dermatology – diagnostics and therapy
Authors: Brägelmann Christine , Wölber Linn , Susok Laura , Anemüller Waltraud , Prüßmann Wiebke , Ivanova Irina , Niebel Dennis
Published: December 2024

The vulva is a periorificial skin area and as such represents a transitional zone with unique functional and physiological characteristics. Knowledge of its anatomy is limited among both the general population and healthcare professionals, and unrealistic expectations of normal proportions are common. Ignorance of anatomical variations can cause unnecessary anxiety. In Germany, specialists in gynecology and obstetrics most commonly treat neoplastic vulvar dermatoses, while chronic inflammatory dermatoses commonly affecting the female genitalia (such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and vitiligo) are typically treated by dermatologists. Both specialties treat infectious vulvar dermatoses and sexually transmitted infections. Certain dermatoses, such as lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, and lichen simplex chronicus, tend to affect the vulva preferentially; however, terminology can be confusing. Therefore, this article provides basic information on vulvar anatomy and physiology and summarizes recommendations for the diagnosis and management of the most common vulvar dermatoses, with a special focus on chronic inflammatory dermatoses, to provide a useful guide for all involved specialists in daily practice. Interdisciplinary collaboration and the establishment of dedicated consultation hours may help to improve the clinical care of vulvar dermatoses.
Asymmetric oviposition behaviour between Drosophila suzukii and Drosophila subpulchrella suggests competition for the shared niche in their native range
Authors: Matsuo Takashi
Published: December 2024

Release from competitors is one of the mechanisms ascribed to the ecological success of invasive species outside their native range (competitive release hypothesis). However, studies describing the natural competitors of invasive species in their homeland are limited.

Drosophila suzukii, the spotted‐wing drosophila, is an invasive pest of small fruits expanding its range worldwide, whereas Drosophila subpulchrella, the most closely related species to D. suzukii, remains endemic to the native range of D. suzukii. D. subpulchrella is inferior to D. suzukii in terms of the host usage capability, and it has not been considered as a major competitor of D. suzukii.

This study examined the interaction between the two species in egg‐laying behaviour. A field survey revealed that 11% of wild berries were co‐infected by both species. In the laboratory experiments, D. suzukii avoided oviposition substrates that had already been oviposited by either conspecific or D. subpulchrella females, whereas D. subpulchrella did not show any preference/avoidance toward the substrates oviposited by either species.

This asymmetric interaction indicates that D. subpulchrella may have a negative effect on the D. suzukii propagation as a niche‐sharing competitor in their homeland, raising a possibility that the release from competition with D. subpulchrella helped the expansion of D. suzukii populations in invaded areas.
Body size mediates the role of insect seed predators as ecosystem engineers for arthropod communities
Authors: López‐Ortega Maurilio , Matías‐Ferrer Noemí , Valenzuela‐González Jorge , Novais Samuel
Published: December 2024

Arthropods that interact with host plants can function as allogenic ecosystem engineers by modifying plant structures, thereby influencing the availability of resources for other organisms. This study examined the role of insect seed predators as ecosystem engineers within arthropod communities and assessed how body size affects this facilitation process. We hypothesised that fruits with more and larger cavities would be more colonised, since they would increase the probability of colonisation and allow a wider range of sizes of arthropod species to access the fruits, respectively.

We collected tamarind (Tamarindus indica, Fabaceae) fruits infested by different seed predators. Following the emergence of these organisms, we categorised 200 fruits into five categories (40 per category) based on the number and size of entrance/emergence cavities: absent (fruits without cavities), small (one small cavity), medium (one medium cavity), large (one large cavity), and multiple (two or more cavities). The fruits were then taken back to the field for 2 and 4 months at the beginning of rainy season to allow colonisation by secondary arthropods.

We recorded 5237 secondary colonisers from 50 morphospecies and 12 different orders. Ants were the most abundant group (4356 individuals) and utilised the fruits mainly as nesting sites (17 nests).

Overall, tamarind fruits in the absent category had a lower species richness and abundance of arthropods compared to fruits with cavities present. Additionally, fruits with large cavities (medium and large categories) supported greater species richness and abundance than those in the small and absent categories. Finally, multiple cavities in fruits facilitate more arthropod species to colonise them compared with those with just one cavity.

Our findings underscore the critical role of seed predators as ecosystem engineers, significantly shaping the structure of plant‐dwelling arthropod communities. We conclude that the cavity diameter and number of cavities in fruits are key factors influencing this facilitation process.
Prognostic serum biomarkers of synaptic, neuronal and glial injury in patients with acute ischemic stroke of the anterior circulation
Authors: Barba Lorenzo , Vollmuth Christoph , Halbgebauer Steffen , Ungethüm Kathrin , Hametner Christian , Essig Fabian , Kollikowski Alexander M. , Pham Mirko , Schuhmann Michael K. , Heuschmann Peter U. , Oeckl Patrick , Steinacker Petra , Romoli Michele , D'Anna Lucio , Abu‐Rumeileh Samir , Haeusler Karl Georg , Stoll Guido , Neugebauer Hermann , Otto Markus
Published: December 2024

Background

We aimed to investigate the prognostic role of β‐synuclein in comparison to that of neurofilament light chain (NfL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) for predicting functional outcome after acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods

We measured serum concentrations of β‐synuclein, NfL and GFAP 24 h after hospital admission in 213 consecutive patients with moderate‐to‐severe AIS. We investigated the association between serum biomarkers and radiological/clinical characteristics, 3‐months mortality and functional outcome on the modified Rankin Scale (mRS).

Results

In 213 patients with AIS [mean age: 76.1 (±12.5) years, 53.1% males, median NIHSS score on admission: 13 (IQR: 9–17)], higher levels of β‐synuclein, NfL and GFAP were associated with higher NIHSS scores and with lower Alberta Stroke Program CT Score (ASPECTS) points on admission. Serum β‐synuclein levels was significantly correlated with NfL (rho = 0.715, p < 0.001) and GFAP concentrations (rho = 0.684, p < 0.001). The inclusion of serum β‐synuclein significantly improved the accuracy of prediction models without biomarkers for overall mortality (AUC: 0.836 vs. 0.752, p < 0.001) and mRS 3–6 vs. 0–2 (AUC: 0.812 vs. 0.624, p < 0.001). Combination models with NfL and/or GFAP showed a similar accuracy.

Conclusions

Serum β‐synuclein may be used to assess synaptic damage/dysfunction and to predict 3‐months clinical outcomes in patients with AIS.
Anti‐Snake Behavior and Snake Discrimination in Vervet Monkeys
Authors: Schad Lukas , van de Waal Erica , Fischer Julia
Published: December 2024

Anti‐predator behavior can inform how animals classify potential threats and which cognitive mechanisms might be involved in risk assessment. Snakes are common predators for many primate species, yet most of our knowledge on primate anti‐snake behavior stems from predator model experiments. Only some studies could investigate natural predator–prey interactions. Here, we combine an observational study on anti‐snake behavior in free‐ranging vervet monkeys, Chlorocebus pygerythrus, with an experimental test of snake classification to achieve an integrated understanding of the monkeys' responses to and classification of snakes. Over 25 months, we gathered data from over 200 individuals in five groups and recorded natural encounters between vervet monkeys and five different species of snakes. We assessed whether the time that monkeys spent in close proximity (≤ 10 m) to snakes varied with the encountered species and whether age and sex classes differed in their propensity to approach snakes (≤ 10 m) or produce alarm calls. Encounters with pythons lasted longer, and monkeys were likelier to approach them than other species. While adult males were less likely to approach snakes, we found no effect of age or sex class on alarm‐calling probability. Alarm calling was restricted to individuals close to snakes, apparently facilitating the recruitment of nearby group members to a snake's position. In experiments, we tested whether vervet monkeys discriminated snake models by length or diameter, but found no effect of model size. While the experimental data showed the same trends as data from natural encounters, the model pythons were approached by a much larger proportion of subjects than real pythons. This contrast between responses in natural predator encounters and simulated events stresses how assessing the variation in natural encounters can provide valuable context when evaluating experimental data.
Genomic Evidence for the Purging of Deleterious Genetic Variation in the Endangered North Atlantic Right Whale
Authors: Orton Richard W. , Hamilton Philip K. , Frasier Timothy R.
Published: December 2024

The reduced genetic diversity and frequent inbreeding associated with small population size may underpin the accumulation and expression of deleterious mutations (mutation load) in some declining populations. However, demographic perturbations and inbreeding coupled with purifying selection can also purge declining populations of deleterious mutations, leading to intriguing recoveries. To better understand the links between deleterious genetic variation and population status, we assess patterns of genetic diversity, inbreeding, and mutation load across the genomes of three species of Balaenidae whale with different demographic histories and recoveries following the end of commercial whaling in the 1980s. Unlike bowhead (BH) and Southern right whales (SRW), which show signs of recent recovery, reproductive rates of the endangered North Atlantic right whale (NARW) remain lower than expected. We show that the NARW is currently marked by low genetic diversity, historical inbreeding, and a high mutation load. Still, we reveal evidence that genetic purging has reduced the frequency of highly deleterious alleles in NARW, which could increase chances of future population recovery. We also identify a suite of mutations putatively linked to congenital defects that occur at high frequencies in nulliparous NARW females but are rare in NARW with high reproductive success. These same mutations are nearly absent in BH and SRW in this study, suggesting that the purging of key variants may shape the probability of population recovery. As anthropogenic disturbances continue to reduce the sizes of many populations in nature, resolving the links between population dynamics and mutation load could become increasingly important.
The impact of different types of exercises on echocardiographic parameters and plasma BNP concentrations in working and sports horses
Authors: Isović J. , Čamo D. , Mutevelić T. , Ćutuk R. , Zahirović A.
Published: December 2024

Background

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) serves as a crucial cardiac biomarker in human and small animal veterinary medicine, yet its role in equine cardiology remains underexplored.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the influence of different exercise types on BNP concentrations and single brief echocardiographic parameters in two distinct horse populations, while also examining potential correlations between BNP concentrations and echocardiographic variables.

Study design

Forty clinically healthy horses, categorised into working and sports groups, underwent exercise testing exercise to their purposes. BNP concentrations were measured using a horse‐specific ELISA kit, and brief echocardiographic examinations were conducted 24 h post‐exercise.

Methods

Blood samples were collected before, after exercises, and at rest to determine plasma BNP concentrations. The brief echocardiographic examinations looked only at M‐mode imaging from the right parasternal window, and assessed cardiac chambers and ventricular diameters. BNP concentrations and echocardiographic variables were compared between the two groups.

Results

Exercise did not significantly increase BNP concentrations in either group, with sports horses exhibiting higher basal BNP values (18.0–1973.0 pg/mL) compared to work horses (14.4–1074.5 pg/mL). No significant differences in BNP concentrations were observed between breeds, sexes, or pregnancy statuses. Brief echocardiographic examinations using M‐mode imaging from the right parasternal window revealed significant differences in right ventricular dimensions in diastole and relative wall thickness between the groups. A low negative correlation (r = −0.329, p = 0.038) was observed between BNP concentration and fractional shortening.

Main limitations

Single pre‐exercise blood sampling, brief M‐mode echocardiography, and lack of exercise standardisation in the endurance horse group limited assessing high biological variability on BNP concentration and echocardiographic parameters in the tested horses.

Conclusions

Assessing BNP concentrations and echocardiographic parameters during different exercises can be helpful in examining the functional status of the equine cardiovascular system, guiding tailored exercise regimens for optimal equine well‐being.
Investigation of the Thickness Effects on Three‐Dimensional Fracture Toughness in Metallic Materials via the Phase‐Field Model
Authors: Hou Junling , Zhang Yinghao , Tan Jiatong , Peng Xingming , Li Qun , Wang Chunguang
Published: December 2024

With the wide application of large wall‐thickness metallic structures in engineering, there has been a growing focus on the three‐dimensional fracture issues associated with these materials. This article uses the phase‐field model to investigate the impact of thickness on elastic–plastic metallic materials. Initially, the fracture toughness of metallic materials in three dimensions is calculated under elastic deformation. The findings reveal that the outcomes obtained from the phase‐field model remain consistent regardless of thickness, thus confirming its effectiveness. Subsequently, the study delves into the three‐dimensional fracture behavior of metallic materials during plastic deformation. It illustrates how the phase–field model approach enables a thorough simulation of crack propagation within these materials, offering a comprehensive understanding of their fracture behavior. By analyzing the phase‐field contour, the thickness effects of three‐point bending specimens during crack growth are effectively captured. In addition, the dimensionless fracture toughness ratio trends with thickness are compared between phase‐field modeling and experimental results in the open literature, showing good agreement.
Genetic Population Structure of Jumbo Squid (Dosidicus gigas) in the Southeastern Pacific Ocean and Its Implication for Fisheries Management
Authors: Pardo‐Gandarillas M. Cecilia , Morales Pamela , Catalán Jennifer , Carrasco Sergio A. , Hernández Sebastián , Oyarzún Pablo A. , Wiff Rodrigo , Ibáñez Christian M.
Published: December 2024

Species with high connectivity usually lack genetic differentiation. We tested for the presence of multiple populations of jumbo squid (Dosidicus gigas) on the Southeastern Pacific Ocean. Samples were collected from Ecuador to southern Chile (1.5° S–38° S). Two mitochondrial genes were sequenced (COI and ND2). Jumbo squids from all sampled locations in Ecuador, Peru, and Chile, as a whole, were characterized by low genetic diversity and an absence of spatial genetic structure, which suggest the presence of a population genetic unit in the Southeastern Pacific Ocean. Absence of spatial genetic structure was associated with high vagility of adults, eggs, and paralarvae of jumbo squid. We conclude that jumbo squid should be managed as a single biological stock along the Southeastern Pacific Ocean.
Blocking Deoxycytidine Kinase in Activated Lymphocytes Depletes Deoxycytidine Triphosphate Pools and Alters Cell Cycle Kinetics to Yield Less Disease in a Mouse Multiple Sclerosis Model
Authors: Salas Jessica R. , Ryan K. M. , Trias Alyssa O. , Chen Bao Ying , Guemes Miriam , Galic Zoran , Schultz Kenneth A. , Clark Peter M.
Published: December 2024

Autoreactive, aberrantly activated lymphocytes that target myelin antigens in the central nervous system (CNS) are primary drivers of the autoimmune disease multiple sclerosis (MS). Proliferating cells including activated lymphocytes require deoxyribonucleoside triphosphates (dNTPs) for DNA replication. dNTPs can be synthesised via the de novo pathway from precursors such as glucose and amino acids or the deoxyribonucleoside salvage pathway from extracellular deoxyribonucleosides. Deoxycytidine kinase (dCK) is the rate‐limiting enzyme in the salvage pathway. In prior work, we showed that targeting dCK with the small molecule inhibitor TRE‐515 limits clinical symptoms in two myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)‐induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse models of MS and decreases the levels of activated CD4 T and B lymphocytes in vivo. However, whether targeting dCK limits disease in additional EAE models and how targeting dCK directly impacts activated and proliferating CD4 T and B cells has yet to be determined. Here, we show that dCK is activated in the lymph nodes and spleen in an EAE model induced by amino acids 139–151 of the proteolipid protein (PLP139‐151) that is driven by CD4 T and B cells and is characterised by acute disease followed by disease remission. Treating this model with TRE‐515 limits clinical symptoms and decreases the levels of activated CD4 T and B cells. In culture, CD4 T and B cells induce deoxyribonucleoside salvage following activation, and TRE‐515 directly blocks CD4 T and B cell activation‐induced proliferation and activation marker expression. TRE‐515 decreases deoxycytidine triphosphate (dCTP) and deoxythymidine triphosphate (dTTP) pools and increases the length of time cells spend in S phase of the cell cycle without inducing a replication stress response in B cells. Our results suggest that dCK activity is required to supply needed dNTPs and to enable rapid cell division following lymphocyte activation against autoantigens in EAE mouse models.
Has Family Engagement Finally Gained Foothold in Forensic Mental Healthcare?
Authors: Rowaert Sara , Tingleff Ellen Boldrup , Hörberg Ulrica , Vandevelde Stijn , Lemmens Gilbert
Published: December 2024

Despite advancements in promoting family engagement in mental health settings, limited involvement of family members persists in forensic mental healthcare. Forensic mental healthcare professionals face various barriers in engaging families, including a patient‐centered approach and resource constraints. However, limited understanding exists of professionals' experiences with family engagement, which is crucial for improving care practices in this setting. Consequently, this study investigates the evolution of professionals' experiences with family engagement from 2015 to 2021 in Flanders, Belgium. Qualitative methods were employed, including focus group interviews in 2015 and individual interviews in 2021 with 23 forensic mental healthcare professionals. Thematic analysis is employed to identify patterns and changes over time. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist was utilised to report the study. The analysis revealed that while initial steps towards family engagement in forensic mental healthcare have been taken, full integration in organisational structures is still lacking. Future efforts should focus on involving family organisations and caregivers, addressing barriers like time and resource constraints, and fostering a cultural shift towards family engagement. Further research involving a broader range of stakeholders is needed to enhance family engagement initiatives in forensic mental healthcare settings.
The Relationship Between Resilience and Mental Health Status Among Nurses With Workplace Violence Experiences: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Pien Li‐Chung , Wang Chia‐Hui , Cheng Wan‐Ju , Lin Yu‐Huei , Chou Kuei‐Ru , Hsu Chia‐Yueh
Published: December 2024

Nurses encounter many stressors and challenges at work, which can negatively affect their mental and physical health. Modern theories of resilience suggest that resilience is a dynamic process of positive adaptation to adversity. This process involves personal growth through adversity, developing effective coping strategies and inculcating the ability to cope with stress. The resilience process involves individual characteristics, social support and environmental factors, including workplace culture. Strengthening nurses' resilience can help them cope with adversity, maintain their mental health and well‐being and support their provision of care. The aim of this study was to examine the associations between workplace characteristics, resilience and mental health status among nurses with experiences of workplace violence. The study objectives were to analyse the relationships between workplace characteristics, resilience and mental health status among nurses with experiences of workplace violence and to investigate the effects of resilience on nurses' mental health outcomes. In this cross‐sectional study, full‐time nurses at a medical centre in Taiwan completed a questionnaire survey. Of 600 distributed questionnaires, 334 nurses were identified to have experienced workplace violence. The questionnaires included items on workplace violence, resilience, metal health status (burnout and mental distress), sleep quality, work characteristics (job control, psychological job demands and workplace justice) and demographic characteristics. Data were analysed through chi‐square tests and multivariate logistic regression. Nurses with low resilience tended to be younger, work more rotating/night shifts and perceive lower levels of job control and workplace justice. They also reported higher risks of burnout and mental distress and lower sleep quality. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that psychological job demands, workplace justice and resilience significantly influenced nurses' mental health status. Nurses with high resilience exhibited a lower risk of mental distress and higher sleep quality. However, resilience was not associated with burnout. The findings revealed how workplace factors and resilience influence nurses' mental health. The findings help nurse managers and policymakers develop strategies to promote nurses' resilience and mental health and mitigate the adverse effects of negative workplace events.
Self‐Deception in Human–AI Emotional Relations
Authors: Kaczmarek Emilia
Published: December 2024

Imagine a man chatting with his AI girlfriend app. He looks at his smartphone and says, ‘Finally, I'm being understood’. Is he deceiving himself? Is there anything morally wrong with it? The human tendency to anthropomorphize AI is well established, and the popularity of AI companions is growing. This article answers three questions: (1) How can being charmed by AI's simulated emotions be considered self‐deception? (2) Why might we have an obligation to avoid harmless self‐deception? (3) When is self‐deception in emotional relationships with AI morally questionable, and can it be blameworthy? Regarding question 1, I describe being seduced by AI's simulated emotions as self‐deception, where desires bias beliefs. In response to question 2, I outline two ways to justify a prima facie obligation to avoid harmless self‐deception – instrumental and autotelic. For question 3, I highlight crucial factors to consider in assessing the blameworthiness of harmless self‐deception, such as the emotional and cognitive competences of the self‐deceiver, reasons for self‐deception, and its consequences for one's predispositions, self‐image, and other people. Moreover, I argue that the ethical requirement to avoid self‐deception does not easily translate into attributing blame to others for being self‐deceived.
Effects of pre‐experimental fasting and sheltering on the swimming performance and oxygen consumption of juvenile grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)
Authors: Ali Malik Haris , Huang Ying‐ping , Johnson David , Li Wei‐ming , Yuan Xi
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the effects of pre‐experimental fasting for 2, 7, and 14 days under both unsheltered (12 h dark–12 h light) and sheltered conditions on the critical swimming speed (Ucrit) and oxygen consumption (MO2) of juvenile grass carp, using a modified swim respirometer. Key findings include (1) the Ucrit of test fish decreased significantly, by 28%, after fasting for 14 days and sheltering intensified the impact to a 43% decrease, and (2) fish anaerobic capacity decreased after 7 days but increased after 14 days, and was enhanced by sheltering conditions. These findings are important as they indicate that fasting and sheltering can impair grass carp survival and disrupt river ecosystem balance, highlighting the need for habitat conservation.
Dual regulation of stomatal development by brassinosteroid in Arabidopsis hypocotyls
Authors: Park Tae‐Ki , Lee Se‐Hwa , Kim So‐Hee , Ko Yeong‐Woo , Oh Eunkyoo , Kim Yun Ju , Kim Tae‐Wuk
Published: December 2024

Stomata are epidermal pores that are essential for water evaporation and gas exchange in plants. Stomatal development is orchestrated by intrinsic developmental programs, hormonal controls, and environmental cues. The steroid hormone brassinosteroid (BR) inhibits stomatal lineage progression by regulating BIN2 and BSL proteins in leaves. Notably, BR is known to promote stomatal development in hypocotyls as opposed to leaves; however, its molecular mechanism remains elusive. Here, we show that BR signaling has a dual regulatory role in controlling stomatal development in Arabidopsis hypocotyls. We found that brassinolide (BL; the most active BR) regulates stomatal development differently in a concentration‐dependent manner. At low and moderate concentrations, BL promoted stomatal formation by upregulating the expression of SPEECHLESS (SPCH) and its target genes independently of BIN2 regulation. In contrast, high concentrations of BL and bikinin, which is a specific inhibitor of BIN2 and its homologs, significantly reduced stomatal formation. Genetic analyses revealed that BIN2 regulates stomatal development in hypocotyls through molecular mechanisms distinct from the regulatory mechanism of the cotyledons. In hypocotyls, BIN2 promoted stomatal development by inactivating BZR1, which suppresses the expression of SPCH and its target genes. Taken together, our results suggest that BR precisely coordinates the stomatal development of hypocotyls using an antagonistic control of SPCH expression via BZR1‐dependent and BZR1‐independent transcriptional regulation.
A Prograde Dual‐Segmented Geotherm for (Retro‐) Eclogite From Western Dabie and Implications for Maximum Decoupling Depths During Continental Subduction
Authors: Xia Bin , Chen Chunhao , Wu Yuanbao , Wang Wei
Published: December 2024

Robust quantification of the prograde P–T trajectories of eclogite exhumed from subduction zones is fundamental for deciphering the thermal structure evolution and understanding the geodynamic processes during continental subduction. In this study, we investigate four metabasites located in Hong'an within the western Dabie HP/UHP metamorphic belt. Based on detailed petrographic observations and mineral chemistry analyses, combined with phase equilibrium modelling, average‐T calculation and conventional thermobarometry, we quantify the prograde to peak P–T paths for each of the four metabasites and the retrograde P–T conditions for two samples. The results show that three of the four metabasites have similar prograde P–T paths evolving from 15.5–18.5 kbar, 440–485 °C (M0 stage) to 18.5–20.5 kbar, 500–525 °C (M1 stage). On the other hand, although the fourth sample shares a similar P–T evolution for a segment of the late prograde stage from 18.0–19.0 kbar, ~500 °C to 20.0–22.0 kbar, ~550 °C, it attains Pmax at a notably higher pressure of ~26.0 kbar at 550–560 °C (M2 stage). During exhumation, we identify an early retrograde stage occurring at 9.0–12.5 kbar, 545–580 °C (M3 stage), followed by a later retrograde stage at 3.5–8.0 kbar, 540–580 °C (M4 stage). In combination with previous studies, we propose a common dual‐segmented P–T path for the late prograde evolution of the HP/UHP rocks in western Dabie. The initial segment exhibits a gentle slope with apparent geotherms of 7–8 °C/km, whereas the subsequent segment displays a steeper slope with apparent geotherms of 5–6 °C/km. We interpret the turning point at 20.0–23.0 kbar (corresponding to depths of 70–80 km) as marking the maximum decoupling depths (MDD) between the subducting slab and the overlying mantle wedge. Notably, this prograde dual‐segmented geotherm for eclogite in western Dabie and the corresponding MDD are similar to computational geodynamic models.
A potential inflammatory biomarker for advanced endometrial cancer treated with lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab
Authors: Yanazume Shintaro , Kobayashi Yusuke , Kirita Yukari , Kitazono Ikumi , Nagata Chikako , Kozai Ayumi , Tanimoto Akihide , Kobayashi Hiroaki
Published: December 2024

Introduction

To identify prognostic biomarkers that could predict how well patients will respond to lenvatinib/pembrolizumab (LEN/PEM). The utility of certain inflammatory biomarkers in endometrial liquid‐based cytology (LBC) or peripheral blood samples, such as neutrophil counts, lymphocyte counts, and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were explored.

Methods

The study included 25 patients with advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer who had received LEN/PEM between August 2018 and March 2024. Predictors for overall response (OR), disease control, and progression‐free survival, based on neutrophil/lymphocyte counts, NLR scores of the endometrial LBC prior to initial treatment, and peripheral blood prior to initial treatment and prior to LEM/PEM treatment were compared using a receiver operating characteristic curve. Significant predictors were evaluated using the log‐rank test, and multivariate analysis.

Results

Although neutrophil counts and NLR score in endometrial LBC prior to initial treatment were better effective predictors for OR, the most accurate predictor of a progression‐free status was NLR score in peripheral blood prior to LEM/PEM (0.722, 95% CI: 0.45–0.99, sensitivity: 57.1%, specificity: 94.4%). In peripheral blood prior to LEN/PEM, the lower NLR (NLR <5.39) group had a significantly longer PFS than the higher NLR (5.39 ≤ NLR) group (p = 0.023, median survival: 13.5 vs. 3.0 months), and tended to be independently correlated with PFS (hazard ratio = 2.571; 95% CI = 0.857–7.719; p = 0.092).

Conclusion

Inflammatory biomarkers in endometrial LBC failed to predict the efficacy of LEN/PEM, while peripheral blood NLR score sampled prior to LEN/PEM potentially could be a significant predictor.
Cerebrospinal fluid‐specific oligoclonal bands in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy
Authors: Föhr Junwei , Prümmer Julia K. , Maiolini Arianna , Marti Eliane , Jelcic Ilijas , Vidondo Beatriz , Ziegler Mario , Bathen‐Nöthen Andrea , Tipold Andrea , Volk Holger A. , Stein Veronika M.
Published: December 2024

Background

In dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (IE), 33% develop resistance to conventional anti‐seizure medication (ASM) despite adequate treatment. In human medicine, an immune‐mediated etiology is suspected in a subset of ASM‐resistant patients with epilepsy and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)‐specific immunoglobulin G (IgG)‐type oligoclonal bands (OCBs) have been detected. In dogs, cases of autoimmune encephalitis recently were reported. Neuroinflammation may provide an additional explanation for the lack of response of certain dogs with IE to ASM.

Hypothesis

Cerebrospinal fluid‐specific OCBs are found in a subgroup of dogs with ASM‐resistant IE.

Animals

Eighty‐four dogs with IE were recruited from 3 referral centers and classified based on their response to ASM treatment (responsive, n = 56; resistant, n = 28).

Methods

Detection of OCBs was performed using isoelectric focusing (IEF) followed by immunoblotting. Associations of CSF‐specific OCBs with seizure type, severity, and response to ASM were calculated using logistic regression models.

Results

The overall frequency of CSF‐specific OCBs in dogs with IE was 15.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 8.5%‐25%). In dogs with ASM‐resistant IE, 21.4% (6/28) had CSF‐specific OCBs compared with only 12.5% (7/56) in those responsive to ASM, but no evidence of an association was detected (odds ratio, 1.9; 95% CI, 0.57‐6.35; P = .29).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Cerebrospinal fluid‐specific OCBs were detected in a subgroup of dogs with IE. This finding could indicate that intrathecal IgG synthesis as a sign of neuroinflammation may play a role in disease pathogenesis.
Comorbidities, long‐term outcome and poststroke epilepsy associated with ischemic stroke – A multicenter observational study of 125 dogs
Authors: Danciu Cecilia‐Gabriella , Gonçalves Rita , Caldero Carrete Jordina , Posporis Christoforos , Espinosa Javier , de Decker Steven , Gredal Hanne , Wyatt Sophie Elizabeth
Published: December 2024

Background

Little is known regarding the comorbidities and prognostic factors associated with the long‐term outcome of ischemic stroke in dogs. Although poststroke epilepsy is a well‐recognized syndrome in people, it is unclear if this phenomenon also occurs in dogs.

Hypothesis/objective

Document comorbidities, long‐term outcome (survival and stroke recurrence), and occurrence of epileptic seizures associated with ischemic stroke.

Animals

One hundred and twenty‐five client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Multicenter observational study including dogs diagnosed with ischemic stroke between 2000 and 2021. Associations between comorbidities, stroke location and extent, poststroke epileptic seizures, and long‐term outcome were investigated. Referring veterinarians and owners were contacted to obtain follow‐up information.

Results

Fifty‐two dogs (41.6%) had a comorbidity. The most common comorbidities were hypertension (20%) and proteinuria (8%). Eight dogs (6.4%) that did not survive to discharge had a territorial ischemic stroke. Overall median survival time for dogs with a comorbidity was 482 days (range, 1‐3013) and 907 days (range, 1‐3027) in dogs without comorbidities (Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis P = .602). Twenty‐four dogs (19.2%) had a suspected stroke recurrence and a total of 8/109 dogs (7.3%) developed poststroke epilepsy. No association was found between suspected stroke recurrence or development of poststroke epilepsy and survival (P = .812, P = .487).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Despite no significant difference in survival of dogs diagnosed with ischemic stroke, with or without comorbidities, investigations for underlying causes are recommended to provide appropriate treatment. Poststroke epilepsy is uncommon.
Animal, Cadaver or Plastic? A Comparison of Models Used for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical Training
Authors: Gray Emma , Hedayat‐Kelishadi Melika , Rowe Sally , Hesketh Patrick , Patel Neil
Published: December 2024

Objective

The objective of this paper was to assess the perceived usefulness of various training models (animal head, fresh frozen human cadaver head or plastic model) used for performing and teaching oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures, based on a survey of oral surgeons.

Methods

Fifty UK‐based oral surgeons working in a combination of primary care, secondary care and specialist practice were invited to complete an anonymised electronic questionnaire. Participants were questioned on their experience of three categories of simulated training models (animal head, human cadaver head or 3D‐printed/plastic model) for 11 specific oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures.

Results

Fifty surveys were received, with an overall preference for training on cadaveric models reported by 76% of respondents. Animal models were preferred by 27%, and 3D models by just 9%. There were wide variations in experience, with respondents having most experience with animal models, and least with human cadavers.

Conclusion

Our study has shown human cadaver specimens were deemed preferable to animal heads or plastic models. However, cadavers are the most expensive and require specialist facilities. The animal head model is a cost‐effective and acceptable solution for surgical training for basic oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures. These are important factors to consider for dental educators when choosing simulated training models for teaching oral surgical procedures.