bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Development of DNA Markers to Resolve Uncertainties of Seabird Bycatch Identification From Longline Fisheries in Australian Waters
Authors: Polanowski Andrea M. , MacDonald Anna J. , Double Mike C. , Barrington Jonathon H. S. , Burg Theresa M. , Wienecke Barbara , McInnes Julie C.
Published: November 2024

Incidental mortality in fisheries is a major driver of population declines for albatrosses and petrels globally. However, accurate identification of species can be difficult due to the poor condition of bycaught birds and/or visual similarities between closely related species. We assessed three genetic markers for their ability to distinguish the 36 albatross and petrel species listed in Annex 1 to the Agreement on the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels (ACAP) and in Australia's Threat Abatement Plan (TAP) for the bycatch of seabirds during oceanic longline fishing operations. We generated 275 new sequences, from 29 species, to improve the coverage of reference databases for these listed species. The combined use of the selected Cytochrome b and Control Region markers enabled the identification of 31 of 36 listed seabirds to species level and four to sister species. One petrel species could not be evaluated as no reference sequences were available. We tested these markers on 59 feathers from bycaught seabirds and compared these to onboard visual identification. We successfully assigned all procellariiforms to species (n = 58), whereas only two seabirds were correctly identified to species visually onboard, highlighting the difficulty of visual species assignment and the need for alternative methods. We assessed the utility of our two chosen markers for the assignment of all procellariiform species, with 74% of species with reference sequences identified to species or sister species level. However, a precautionary approach is needed for application beyond our listed species due to unvalidated reference sequences. The approach described here provides a streamlined framework for the molecular identification of seabird bycatch. This approach is recommended for use in fisheries within and outside Australian waters to improve the resolution of bycatch reporting and to corroborate logbook entries, observer reports and audits of images captured by electronic monitoring systems as well as help inform conservation efforts.
Fertile Hybrids Could Aid Coral Adaptation
Authors: Lamb Annika M. , Peplow Lesa M. , Chan Wing Yan , Crane Zoe J. , Everson Glenn A. , Harrison Peter L. , Hite Talley E. , Hoffmann Ary A. , Humphrey Craig A. , Koukoumaftsis Lonidas P. , van Oppen Madeleine J. H.
Published: November 2024

Fertile hybrids can enhance the adaptive capacity and resilience of species under stress by increasing genetic diversity within populations, masking the effects of deleterious recessive alleles, and facilitating the introgression of beneficial genetic variants into parental species. However, many hybrids are infertile. We compared the fertility of aquarium‐reared F1 hybrid and purebred corals of the species Acropora loripes and Acropora kenti and examined the viability of early life stages of second‐generation (F2) hybrid and back‐crossed planula larvae and recruits. The F1 hybrids spawned viable gametes and the F2 hybrid and back‐crossed embryos developed into planula larvae and settled to become sessile coral recruits. The F1 hybrids had greater reproductive fitness than the F1 A. loripes purebred stock in an aquarium environment based on their probability of spawning and their fertilization success in crosses using their gametes. Interspecific coral hybrids can therefore be fertile and have high reproductive fitness, which could benefit the persistence of threatened coral reefs.
Detecting Range Shrinking From Historical Amphibian Species Occurrences Under Influence of Human Impacts: A Case Study Using the Chinese Giant Salamander, Andrias davidianus
Authors: Li Siqing , Dai Wenyu , Wang Zhenkang , Wu Zhaoning , Wang Jiechen
Published: November 2024

Amphibian declines, driven by climate change (e.g., shifting temperatures, altered precipitation) and human activities like deforestation, agriculture, and urbanization, may lead to local extinctions. Quantifying the relative impact of climate change versus human influence remains challenging. This study uses species distribution models (SDMs) and nearly 1000 years of historical distribution data from ancient texts and local archives to reconstruct the past distribution range of the Chinese giant salamander (Andrias davidianus) and to assess the spatiotemporal shifts in its range over time. The results reveal that over the past millennium, the potential distribution range of the Chinese giant salamander consistently contracted, decreasing by 10% from the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) to the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) and a further 30% from the Qing Dynasty to the modern era. Losses are concentrated in eastern plains with abundant water bodies, resulting in available habitat reduction to 27% of the Qing Dynasty's area. Climate factors have been key in shaping the salamander's distribution, but our findings reveal that population density has consistently impacted its range throughout history, highlighting the lasting influence of human activity. Climate models project a about 10% decrease in suitable habitat by around 2090, with northward shifts in suitable habitat. Given the urgent threat of habitat loss and environmental degradation, immediate and effective actions are crucial to prevent the local extinction of the Chinese giant salamander, including habitat protection, environmental restoration, and strict regulations against hunting and habitat destruction. This study, analyzing the Chinese giant salamander's suitable habitat historically, identifies human activities as a pivotal force in early amphibian species decline in China, contributing valuable perspectives to future amphibian conservation and management.
Tree damage risk across gradients in tree species richness and stand age: Implications for adaptive forest management
Authors: Jonsson Micael , Bengtsson Jan , Moen Jon , Snäll Tord
Published: November 2024

Forest disturbances are expected to increase in severity with climate change and intensified land use, threatening future delivery of several ecosystem services, including the climate‐mitigating potential of forests. Alleviating these consequences through adaptive forest management demands a greater understanding of what drives the impacts of disturbances on forests, which, in turn, requires collection of high‐quality data through large‐scale and long‐term monitoring programs. The Swedish National Forest Inventory has been recording “damages” on living trees across a forest area of 230,000 km2, in addition to a wide range of stand characteristics and environmental conditions. Using 15 years of these data, we investigated the frequency of different types of tree damages and the causes of these damages and modeled damage risk among tree species and across gradients in stand attributes and environmental conditions. We found that 94% of all surveyed trees had some type of damage, but for 65% of these, the underlying cause was not identified. Nevertheless, for all damage types and causes, we found that damage risk varied considerably among tree species and across gradients in tree species richness, tree height, and stand age. For a few damages, stand age or tree species richness interacted with climate to influence risks. Among identified causes of damage, “wind and snow” was most common (11.9% of surveyed trees), followed by “forestry” (6.9%). Further, for most causes of damage where stand age was significant, the risk was highest in young or the youngest stands. As such, our results indicate that there is great potential for reducing the risk of tree damages via adaptive management, such as altered tree species composition and increased rotation length. However, for a greater understanding of what is driving the frequency and magnitude of forest damages, and to be able to provide specific, useful information to stakeholders, collection of higher‐quality data must be prioritized by monitoring programs.
Agricultural mosaics offer nesting habitat to dabbling ducks in the arid Intermountain West of the United States
Authors: Setash Casey M. , Behney Adam C. , Gammonley James H. , Pejchar Liba , Reddy Matt A. , Koons David N.
Published: November 2024

The debate over the best agricultural practices for biological conservation often focuses on the degree to which agricultural lands should be interspersed with desirable habitat versus protecting lands entirely from production. It is important to understand the benefits agriculture provides for wildlife because it is consuming an increasing proportion of the landscape. We evaluated the nesting ecology of breeding ducks within a mosaic of flood‐irrigated conservation areas and agricultural lands in hay production. We assessed how habitat features at two spatial scales across these lands were related to nest site selection, nest density, and nest survival of multiple duck species. Birds selected nest sites with higher visual obstruction, a higher proportion of shrubs around the nest, and less bare ground, but we did not detect evidence of selection per se at larger spatial scales. Nest density was marginally higher along linear features, including irrigation ditches and riparian stretches, but nest survival remained similar across land‐use types and habitats features. This system is representative of many agricultural landscapes around the globe and highlights the ways agroecosystems can be managed to maintain habitat suitability for wildlife on working lands.
Study on the Liquid‐Holding Rate Law of Gas–Water–Foam Three‐Phase Flow in a Wavy Pipe
Authors: Wei Wang , Guowei Wang , Zhenhua Wu , Hui Yang , Bin Ma , Jian Wu , Longyu Xu , Ruiquan Liao
Published: November 2024

As a common method for liquid drainage in wave‐shaped pipelines, foam drainage has been used in gas‐gathering pipelines in various oil and gas fields. One of the common problems encountered in wave‐shaped foam drainage pipelines is the inaccurate prediction of the liquid retention rate. This issue makes it difficult to predict liquid accumulation points, which affects gas output efficiency, causes pipeline corrosion, and generates natural gas hydrates. To clarify the liquid‐holding rate law of wavy foam drainage pipelines is studied. In this study, through experiments to verify the accuracy of the numerical simulation method, we investigate the easiest liquid accumulation points and the liquid‐holding rate of wave‐shaped foam drainage pipelines, with factors such as inlet gas velocity, inlet liquid velocity, import and export differential pressure, undulation angle, and inlet temperature change rule. Among them, the error between the numerical simulation results and the experimental results is 4.68%. Finally, after considering the influence of the aforementioned factors on the liquid retention rate of wave‐shaped pipelines, a new liquid retention rate calculation model for wave‐shaped pipelines with foam drainage is established by introducing dimensionless numbers, such as gas‐phase velocity coefficient, liquid‐phase velocity coefficient, and angle correction coefficient. The method is compared with the results of previous research, and the error is within 15%. The model has a simple form and high calculation accuracy, providing a theoretical basis for pipeline inspectors to predict liquid accumulation conditions and reasonably adjust production schedules.
Combining electrical resistivity tomography and passive seismic to characterise the subsurface architecture of a deeply weathered lateritic hill within the Avon River critical zone observatory
Authors: Weller Jessie , Jakica Sara , Thompson Sally , Leopold Matthias
Published: November 2024

Observing the subsurface architecture of the deep Critical Zone (CZ), which lies beyond the uppermost layer of accessible soil, is a complex but crucial task. Near‐surface geophysics offers an alternative to accessing the deep CZ at scales relevant to fluid, nutrient and gas transport. As geophysical instruments are sensitive to different subsurface physical properties, their combination can enhance insight into CZ architecture. However, the agreement between and complementarity of multiple geophysical techniques has not been widely assessed for CZ‐related questions. This study employed geophysics to image a highly weathered lateritic hill rich in iron oxides developed from Archean granite within the Avon River Critical Zone Observatory, Western Australia. Data gathered from an electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and horizontal‐to‐vertical‐spectral‐ratio (HVSR) passive seismic transect were used to visualise CZ architecture through specific resistivity values and ambient noise contrasts. Both techniques revealed a notable degree of lateral variability consistent with the formation of the ~3–4 m thick duricrust‐capped hilltop, the creation of gullies in the sodic material of the pallid zone exposed along the slope and the deposition of ~11 m thick colluvial sediment at the foot slope. Calculated bedrock depth was consistent between the HVSR and ERT instruments along the hilltop plateau but varied from ~23 m to 31 m on the slope and 32 m to 39 m at the foot slope, respectively. Overall, the vertical variation depicted by the ERT, including the differentiation of two layers within the lateritic weathering profile ‐ the pallid zone and saprolite – made up for the inaccuracy of the HVSR technique in depicting layers of similar composition. Moreover, the HVSR method clearly depicted bedrock depth, overcoming the partial masking of the bedrock by saline groundwater in the ERT model. The complementarity of these two methods allowed the development of a detailed conceptual model of subsurface CZ architecture within a saline lateritic weathering profile.
Anatomy of a deep Piedmont critical zone: Evaluating hypotheses on regolith depth controls through comparison of ridge and valley boreholes
Authors: Cosans Cassandra L. , Hayes Jorden L. , Carr Bradley J. , Holbrook Steven , Harman Ciaran J.
Published: November 2024

Controls on the physical and chemical architecture of the subsurface critical zone are somewhat controversial, with multiple hypotheses proposed to account for variations in the depth of weathering between sites, and with landscape position at a site. In the Piedmont region of the Mid‐Atlantic US weathering of crystalline bedrock has been observed to extend tens of meters below the surface and groundwater in a'bow‐tie’ shape – i.e. weathering extends to lower elevations below ridges than below channels. The chemical and physical structure of a hillslope transect in the Maryland Piedmont was explored with a 45 m borehole in the ridge, as well as shallow bedrock boreholes at the toe of the slope and valley. Chemical weathering fronts were characterized using elemental abundances and mineralogical analysis. The ridge borehole did not extend deeper than the chemically and physically weathered rock. Surface and borehole geophysics and density measurements were used to characterize the weathered rock and saprolite. Na and Ca results suggest that plagioclase feldspar weathering is similar between samples collected from 45 m under the ridge and 2.2 m under the valley bottom. A narrow Fe oxidation garnet weathering front co‐insides with the transition from weathered bedrock to saprolite, suggesting that this reaction may generate initial saprolite porosity. Muscovite weathering co‐occurs with complete depletion of plagioclase a few meters above the Fe oxidation front. These nested weathering fronts in the saprolite appear to follow a subdued version of the surface topography. The location and shape of the nested saprolite weathering fronts may be controlled by the feedback between the transport of reactants and solutes and reaction‐generated porosity, consistent with the conceptual “valve” hypothesis. Differing dominant control mechanisms on deep bedrock weathering and saprolite initiating reactions may explain the thickness and structure of the critical zone at our site.
The Effects of Okra Consumption on Glycemic Parameters and Lipid Profile in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiaolei , Miao Jinxin , Song Yagang , Miao Mingsan
Published: November 2024

The clinical research findings on the effects of okra consumption on blood glucose and lipids are inconsistent. In this study, we aimed to explore the impact of okra consumption on glycemic parameters and lipid profile in adults, including homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C). To find relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs), we systemically searched EMBASE, Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus until April 2024. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, eight studies involving 521 participants were ultimately included in the present study. Compared to placebo, okra consumption remarkably decreased FBG (WMD: −32.56 mg/dL; 95% CI: −48.83, −16.28; p < 0.001; I2 = 84.7%), HbA1c (WMD: −0.48%; 95% CI: −0.81, −0.16; p = 0.004; I2 = 5.5%), TG (WMD: −13.16 mg/dL; 95% CI: −23.54, −2.77; p = 0.013; I2 = 0.0%), and TC (WMD: −9.70 mg/dL; 95% CI: −14.95, −4.46; p < 0.001; I2 = 38.3%) in adults. However, okra showed no notable impact on HOMA‐IR, HDL‐C, and LDL‐C. Okra consumption has an improving effect on adult FBG, HbA1c, TG, and TC levels. More large‐scale RCT studies are necessary to validate the beneficial effects of okra on adults due to the limited number of included RCTs.

Trial Registration: PROSPERO: CRD42024540121
Comparative Post‐Marketing Surveillance of Memantine and Cholinesterase Inhibitors: Cardiovascular Adverse Events With a Focus on Sex Differences Using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System Database
Authors: Aksoyalp Zinnet Şevval , Nemutlu‐Samur Dilara
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of the proportion of cardiovascular adverse events (AEs) associated with the utilization of memantine and cholinesterase inhibitors and to highlight the potential impact of sex differences in these AEs.

Methods

Cardiac and vascular disorders AEs with antidementia medications were obtained from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System database. The reporting odds ratio and its corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated. The chi‐squared test was used to evaluate differences in categorical variables, and a two‐way ANOVA followed by a Bonferroni post‐test was used to compare the AEs reported for antidementia medications.

Results

Memantine was associated with 544 selected cardiac and vascular disorder AEs. A signal for bradycardia, myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation and cardiac arrest has been observed in patients receiving choline esterase inhibitors compared to those receiving memantine. On the other hand, cardiac failure and deep vein thrombosis AEs were found to be more common in patients receiving memantine. The majority of reported cardiac and vascular AEs were reported more frequently in female patients. More cases of cardiac failure, cardiac arrest, and deep vein thrombosis were reported in females than males taking memantine, but bradycardia was more common in males than females.

Conclusion

Healthcare professionals should be aware of the potential for cardiovascular AEs during treatment with antidementia medications and the possibility of sex differences in this regard. Memantine differs from cholinesterase inhibitors in terms of cardiovascular AEs, and there may be sex‐related differences in the proportion of these AEs.
Tractography‐Based Automated Identification of Retinogeniculate Visual Pathway With Novel Microstructure‐Informed Supervised Contrastive Learning
Authors: Li Sipei , Zhang Wei , Yao Shun , He Jianzhong , Gao Jingjing , Xue Tengfei , Xie Guoqiang , Chen Yuqian , Torio Erickson F. , Feng Yuanjing , Bastos Dhiego C. A. , Rathi Yogesh , Makris Nikos , Kikinis Ron , Bi Wenya Linda , Golby Alexandra J. , O'Donnell Lauren J. , Zhang Fan
Published: November 2024

The retinogeniculate visual pathway (RGVP) is responsible for carrying visual information from the retina to the lateral geniculate nucleus. Identification and visualization of the RGVP are important in studying the anatomy of the visual system and can inform the treatment of related brain diseases. Diffusion MRI (dMRI) tractography is an advanced imaging method that uniquely enables in vivo mapping of the 3D trajectory of the RGVP. Currently, identification of the RGVP from tractography data relies on expert (manual) selection of tractography streamlines, which is time‐consuming, has high clinical and expert labor costs, and is affected by inter‐observer variability. In this paper, we present a novel deep learning framework, DeepRGVP, to enable fast and accurate identification of the RGVP from dMRI tractography data. We design a novel microstructure‐informed supervised contrastive learning method that leverages both streamline label and tissue microstructure information to determine positive and negative pairs. We propose a new streamline‐level data augmentation method to address highly imbalanced training data, where the number of RGVP streamlines is much lower than that of non‐RGVP streamlines. In the experiments, we perform comparisons with several state‐of‐the‐art deep learning methods that were designed for tractography parcellation. Furthermore, to assess the generalizability of the proposed RGVP method, we apply our method to dMRI tractography data from neurosurgical patients with pituitary tumors. In comparison with the state‐of‐the‐art methods, we show superior RGVP identification results using DeepRGVP with significantly higher accuracy and F1 scores. In the patient data experiment, we show DeepRGVP can successfully identify RGVPs despite the effect of lesions affecting the RGVPs. Overall, our study shows the high potential of using deep learning to automatically identify the RGVP.
Management of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia in a cesarean section scar: A case report
Authors: Yu Changqing , Zhou Yumei , Xu Junfen
Published: November 2024

Synopsis

Multidisciplinary approaches incorporating surgical intervention are imperative for management of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia in a cesarean section scar.
Brain morphometry in hepatic Wilson disease patients
Authors: Rahimi Parya , Mareček Stanislav , Brůha Radan , Dezortová Monika , Sojka Petr , Hájek Milan , Skowrońska Marta , Smoliński Łukasz , Urbánek Petr , Litwin Tomasz , Dušek Petr
Published: November 2024

Wilson disease (WD) primarily presents with hepatic and neurological symptoms. While hepatic symptoms typically precede the neurological manifestations, copper accumulates in the brain already in this patient group and leads to subclinical brain MRI abnormalities including T2 hyperintensities and atrophy. This study aimed to assess brain morphological changes in mild hepatic WD. WD patients without a history of neurologic symptoms and decompensated cirrhosis and control participants underwent brain MRI at 3T scanner including high‐resolution T1‐weighted images. A volumetric evaluation was conducted on the following brain regions: nucleus accumbens, caudate, pallidum, putamen, thalamus, amygdala, hippocampus, midbrain, pons, cerebellar gray matter, white matter (WM), and superior peduncle, using Freesurfer v7 software. Whole‐brain analyses using voxel‐ and surface‐based morphometry were performed using SPM12. Statistical comparisons utilized a general linear model adjusted for total intracranial volume, age, and sex. Twenty‐six WD patients with mild hepatic form (30 ± 9 years [mean age ± SD]); 11 women; mean treatment duration 13 ± 12 (range 0–42) years and 28 healthy controls (33 ± 9 years; 15 women) were evaluated. Volumetric analysis revealed a significantly smaller pons volume and a trend for smaller midbrain and cerebellar WM in WD patients compared to controls. Whole‐brain analysis revealed regions of reduced volume in the pons, cerebellar, and lobar WM in the WD group. No significant differences in gray matter density or cortical thickness were found. Myelin or WM in general seems vulnerable to low‐level copper toxicity, with WM volume loss showing promise as a marker for assessing brain involvement in early WD stages.
Dissociation Chemistry of Protonated α‐, β‐ and Other Amino Acids Using Multiple Stage Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Asakawa Daiki
Published: November 2024

To discriminate amino acid isomers by multiple stage tandem mass spectrometry (MSn), the fragmentation of protonated amino acids were investigated by MSn with collision‐induced dissociation (CID) and density functional theory calculations. The CID of protonated α‐amino acids results in a loss of 46 Da, corresponding to H2O and CO, and iminium ions appear as resultant fragments. The CID of protonated β‐amino acids also produces iminium ions, but the corresponding loss is 60 Da instead of 46 Da. H2O loss initiates the fragmentation of protonated β‐amino acids, producing protonated β‐lactams as an intermediate. Subsequently, protonated β‐lactams are easily converted to iminium ions and CH2CO. By contrast, H2O loss from the protonated forms of γ‐ and ε‐amino acids provides protonated lactams with 5‐ and 7‐membered rings, respectively. Protonated lactams with more than 5‐membered rings provide stable fragments and do not undergo further degradation during CID. In addition, protonated forms of γ‐ and ε‐amino acids undergo NH3 loss as a competitive fragmentation pathway of H2O loss, producing protonated lactones. Because the fragmentation of protonated amino acid by CID depends on the position of amino and carboxyl groups, the tandem mass spectrometry with CID can discriminate α‐, β‐, and other amino acids.
Parental Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) Predominates Over Coinfected SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta, Producing Less Lethal Variants in a Long‐Term Replication Mouse Model
Authors: Baek Kyeongbin , Kim Dongbum , Kang Bo Min , Kim Jinsoo , Demirev Atanas V. , Lee Sangyi , Kim Minyoung , Kim Suyeon , Park Sangkyu , Kim Jin Il , Park Man‐Seong , Lee Younghee , Kwon Hyung‐Joo
Published: November 2024

The evolution of SARS‐CoV‐2, which limits public control and treatment, seems to have occurred through multiple mechanisms, including recombination of cocirculating strains in hosts. However, insufficient experimental data have been obtained after coinfection. Therefore, we investigated the emergence of variants after coinfection with parental SARS‐CoV‐2 and the SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta. We found that fewer (approximately 50%) mutations accumulated in Calu‐3 cells than in other cells after serial passaging. Previously, we established a long‐term replication mouse model by infecting Calu‐3 cell‐derived xenograft tumors with SARS‐CoV‐2. Here, we utilized our model to investigate the outcome after coinfection. More diverse viral mutations, along with multiple high‐frequency simultaneous mutations, were discovered in the tumors than during cell passaging. Viral isolates from the tumors showed no cytopathic effects and formed much smaller plaques. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that the genetic makeup of the variants remained largely the same as that of parental SARS‐CoV‐2 rather than the SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta. Viral challenge revealed that the isolates were less lethal than the parental SARS‐CoV‐2 and SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta strains. These findings suggest that parental SARS‐CoV‐2 predominates over the SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta when coinfected, but the SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta contributes to the evolution of parental SARS‐CoV‐2 variants toward better host adaptation without recombination.
Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR) Alterations in HPV Oropharyngeal Cancers
Authors: Bhateja Priyanka , Liu Xuefeng , Baliga Sujith , Gogineni Emile , Jhawar Sachin , Mitchell Darrion , Ma Sungjun , Zhu Simeng , Konieczkowski David , Blakaj Dukagjin , Old Matthew , Rocco James , Bonomi Marcelo
Published: November 2024

HPV viral E6 and E7 onco‐proteins play a well‐known role in carcinogenesis. Host genomic alterations also play a key role in the development of HPV‐related oropharyngeal cancer and have been under‐recognized. We describe a case series of 6 metastatic/locoregionally recurrent HPVOPSCC patients with FGFR alterations. HPVOPSCC presents with distinct pattern of spread both temporally and sites of recurrence compared to 
non‐HPV‐related oropharyngeal cancer. Identification and reporting of genomic alterations in HPV are crucial to the understanding of disease biology and could aid in development of novel therapeutics for these patients. In addition, use of circulating tumor DNA may lead to early detection and supplement imaging in the follow up of these patients. Loco‐regional treatments may also play a key role in the management of metastatic HPV OPSCC depending on the pattern of presentation. Our case series highlights all these novelties that could lead to better treatment outcomes.
Discrepancy between Mexican paediatricians and ESPGHAN experts regarding cow's milk allergy
Authors: Hendricx Fabian , Robert Emma , Gestels Thomas , Delcourt Hanne , Negroe Benjamin Suarez , Vázquez‐Frias Rodrigo , Toro Monjaraz Erick Manuel , Monserrat Cazares Méndez Josefina , Ribes‐Koninckx Carmen , Huysentruyt K. , Vandenplas Yvan
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Cow's milk allergy (CMA) is a common food allergy in infants. Guidelines and recommendations for the diagnosis and management of CMA are based on scientific review of the available evidence. However, real‐world situations may oblige clinicians to adapt a different attitude.

Methods

This paper evaluated the opinion of 42 Mexican paediatricians on the 73 statements presented in the recent position paper of the European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN). Voting on the statements and their interpretation were identical for both groups (online and anonymous). Both groups were unaware of the other's outcome at the moment of the voting.

Results

While the ESPGHAN group accepted all 73 statements, the Mexican group rejected 19 statements. Two rejections were due to the mean and median being below the predefined and agreed‐upon cut‐off, and 17 were due to over 75% of participants disagreeing with the statements. The greatest discrepancy was observed regarding the role of vitamin D in preventing CMA.

Conclusion

While opinions on the prevalence, diagnosis and management of CMA were comparable between European paediatric gastroenterologists and Mexican general paediatricians for the majority of statements, significant differences were observed. It is essential to gather information from various regions and healthcare levels to enhance the impact of recommendations.
Effects of microemulsions of Ocimum basilicum essential oil on the cooking quality of snakehead (Channa argus) under different impregnation methods
Authors: Shi Peng , Xie Yao , Mei Jun , Xie Jing
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

This study investigates the effect of microemulsions of 0.8% Ocimum basilicum essential oil (MOBO) on the cooking quality and shelf life of snakehead fillets using different impregnation methods (air environment treatment, vacuum impregnation, ultrasonic impregnation and vacuum impregnation with ultrasonic‐assisted). Basil essential oil, recognized for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, is utilized in a microemulsion form to enhance its efficacy and application in food preservation.

RESULTS

The findings of the study demonstrated that MOBO markedly enhanced the cooking quality, flavor and overall acceptability of snakehead fillets. The incidence of microbial growth was markedly diminished in the MOBO‐treated fillets in comparison to the control group. On day 9, a reduction in the total viable count of a minimum of 1.7 lg CFU/g was observed in comparison to the control group. The treated group exhibited an extended shelf life, with an increase of 3–9 days in comparison to the control group. However, there was a higher cooking weight loss in the treated group compared to the control group. This is from the findings regarding moisture content. The digestibility of the MOBO‐treated fillets was enhanced by up to 4.13% in comparison to the control group, while the particle size was reduced by up to 40 nm. MOBO reduced the production of bitter amino acids and thiobarbituric acid.

CONCLUSION

Incorporating MOBO in the marination process effectively enhances the cooking quality and extends the shelf life of snakehead fillets. These results indicate the potential of basil essential oil microemulsion as a natural and efficient food preservation method, offering significant benefits for the food industry in terms of product quality and safety improvement. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Rate coefficients for the gas‐phase reaction of OH radicals with the L4, L5, D5, and D6 permethylsiloxanes
Authors: Bernard François , Burkholder James B.
Published: November 2024

Rate coefficients, k(T), for the gas‐phase OH radical reaction with decamethyltetrasiloxane ((CH3)3SiO[Si(CH3)2O]2Si(CH3)3, L4, k1), dodecamethylpentasiloxane ((CH3)3SiO[Si(CH3)2O]3Si(CH3)3, L5, k2), and decamethylcyclopentasiloxane ([–Si(CH3)2O–]5, D5, k3), and dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane ([–Si(CH3)2O–]6, D6, k4) were measured using a pulsed laser photolysis—laser induced fluorescence absolute method over the temperature range 270–370 K. The obtained room temperature rate coefficients, with quoted 2σ absolute uncertainties, and fitted temperature dependence are (cm−3 molecule−1 s−1):

The 2σ absolute rate coefficient uncertainty, for all compounds included in this study, is conservatively estimated to be ∼10% over the entire temperature range. The cyclic permethylsiloxanes were found to be less reactive than the analogous linear compound, while both linear and cyclic compounds show increasing reactivity with increasing number of CH3‐ groups. A structure activity relationship (SAR) parameterization for the permethylsiloxanes is presented. The estimated atmospheric lifetimes due to OH reaction for L4, L5, D5, and D6 are 5.2, 4.4, 6.8, and 5.2 days, respectively.
Leaf Accumulation Capacity of Herbaceous Plants Growing on Fields Contaminated With Anthropogenically Induced Potentially Toxic Elements Under Natural Soil Conditions
Authors: Asare Michael O. , Száková Jiřina , Najmanová Jana , Tlustoš Pavel
Published: November 2024

Estimation and knowledge of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in soils and herbaceous plants are vital for ecotoxicological reasons. This study explored PTE accumulation in the aerial organ (leaf) of herbaceous plants in PTE‐contaminated soils in a linear transect of three localities close to the Litavka River in Pribram, Czech Republic. Leaf accumulation answers questions on PTE hyperaccumulation and removal during phytoremediation. The study adopted the pseudo‐total extraction (aqua regia soluble) of PTE contents (Cd, Cu, Zn, Pb, and Ni) of soil and leaf samples determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Except for Ni, the contents of Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn were above the permissible limits in soil following WHO with contamination factors ranging from moderate to serious contamination in the sites. Of the 118 herbaceous species in the sites, 43% (52 species) accumulated Cd above the WHO limit in leaves with
Geranium pusillum
Burm. f. having the highest content (0.84 mg kg−1) while only
Geum urbanum
L. (132 mg kg−1) and
G. pusillum
(166 mg kg−1) were above the limit that supports the principal option to clean the infested soils. There was a low bioaccumulation of all plants indicated by a bioaccumulation factor less < 1 (BAFleaf < 1) with PTE content lower than reported hyperaccumulator values. The hyperaccumulation status of PTE of plants stated by previous authors in leaves can be unreliable, under natural soil conditions, accumulations can even be lower than the permissible limits. Further studies requiring different soils and other plants are needed to make a reliable inference on which organs of plants support hyperaccumulation status.
Advancements in Understanding Beryllium Contamination: Novel Insights Into Environmental Risk Assessment
Authors: Kumar Amit , Kumar Vinod , Chawla Mrinalini , Thakur Monika , Bakshi Palak , Jasrotia Rakesh , Radziemska Maja , Kumar Rupesh
Published: November 2024

Beryllium (Be), a lightweight metal with significant industrial applications, poses notable environmental and health risks due to its toxicity and persistence, and widespread use, particularly in the mechanical, aerospace, and electronics sectors. It is commonly alloyed with other heavy metals to enhance material properties. The primary environmental pathways for Be release include emissions from coal and fossil fuels combustion, as well as the incineration of solid wastes. Once introduced into the natural environment, primarily Be associated with soil particles and sediments, particularly in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. This review examined the pathways through which Be enters the environment, including atmospheric deposition, industrial discharge, and leaching from natural geologic deposits. The paper highlights the bioavailability and mobility of Be in soil and water systems, emphasizing the geochemical and physical factors influencing its persistence and potential for bioaccumulation. Risk appraisal methodologies are evaluated, with a focus on human exposure routes, including inhalation of airborne particulates and ingestion of contaminated water and food. The toxicological impacts on human health are critically analyzed, detailing both acute and chronic effects, such as respiratory diseases and carcinogenicity. This review evaluates existing regulatory frameworks and remediation strategies, assessing their efficacy in mitigating environmental contamination and exposure to Be. By integrating interdisciplinary research, this paper provides an in‐depth understanding of the environmental behavior and toxicology of beryllium, offering insights that can inform robust policy frameworks and shape future research directions.
Evaluating the Therapeutic Potential of Microneedle Patch Laser With Multiple Wavelengths in Allergic Rhinitis: Insights From an Allergic Rhinitis Mouse Model
Authors: Ventura Reiza , Bae Jun‐Sang , Kim Eun Hee , Kim A. Young , Oh Min Hyuck , Kim Ji Hye , Yoo Shin Hyuk , Ryu Gwanghui , Mo Ji‐Hun
Published: November 2024

Objective

There is insufficient evidence to determine the effectiveness of treating allergic rhinitis with a patch laser affix to the skin as opposed to direct intranasal irradiation of the nasal mucosa. We aimed to evaluate the effect of the microneedle patch laser with multiple wavelengths in an allergic rhinitis (AR) mouse model and its underlying mechanism.

Methods

The microneedle patch laser was attached to the skin above the mouse's nasal cavity, transmitting light to the nasal mucosa. For 10 days, the microneedle patch laser administered simultaneous exposure to wavelengths of 670, 780, 850, and 910 nm at either 10 or 20 min each day. Multiple allergic parameters were evaluated following the microneedle patch laser treatment.

Results

Microneedle patch laser treatment decreased allergic symptoms and inhibited OVA‐specific IgE levels. Additionally, it significantly reduced eosinophil infiltration, epithelial thickness of the nasal mucosa, and IL‐4 cytokine levels.

Conclusion

The light emitted by the microneedle patch laser attached to the skin, penetrated effectively to the nasal mucosa within the nasal cavity, suggesting potential for treating allergic rhinitis in mice and could be extended in clinical applications.
Application of biomaterials in cardiac tissue engineering: Current status and prospects
Authors: Zhang Dongshan , He Rui , Qu Ying , He Chuan , Chu Bingyang
Published: November 2024

Cardiovascular diseases have become one of the leading causes of death and illness worldwide, posing significant challenges to global health. Due to the limited regenerative capacity of the heart, conventional approaches to treating heart diseases have demonstrated limited effectiveness. Therefore, leveraging biomaterials and biotechnologies in cardiac tissue engineering has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy. This review aims to summarize the various characteristics of biomaterials in cardiac tissue engineering and their significance in addressing heart diseases. We categorize biomaterials into natural, synthetic, and conductive types based on their sources and unique properties, focusing on their applications in cardiac tissue engineering. We then present current applications of biomaterials in cardiac tissue engineering, followed by a discussion of existing challenges such as long‐term material stability, biocompatibility, adverse reactions, and precise application methodologies. Additionally, we provide insights into potential strategies for overcoming these challenges, aiming to enhance the effectiveness and safety of biomaterials in cardiac tissue engineering applications. Finally, this review highlights the potential of emerging biomaterials and technologies, underscoring the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving innovation and progress in cardiac tissue engineering.
Molecular Analysis of Genes CEBPA, NPM1, IDH1, and RUNX1 Polymorphisms as Biomarker Potential in Leukemia Patients
Authors: Bashir Kashif , Ghafar Sadia Abdul , Rehman Afifa Tur , Waris Tayyaba , Farooq Fatima , Alamin Amin A.
Published: November 2024

Leukemia is found in approximately 2.3 million people worldwide and causes many deaths all over the world. This research study was conducted to figure out the link of single nucleotide polymorphisms of genes CEBPA (rs34529039), NPM1 (rs753788683), IDH1 (of rs11554137) and RUNX1 (rs13051066) polymorphisms as biomarker potential in leukemia patients. A total of 600 subjects were included in the study which included 300 patients and 300 healthy controls with age and gender matched. After DNA extraction, PCR was carried out to analyze polymorphisms of selected genes. A significant association with increased risk of leukemia by almost twofolds is observed in homozygous mutant (AA) of rs34529039 SNP of gene CEBPA (odds ratio [OR] = 1.71; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04–2.82; p = 0.03) while highly significant association but with decrease risk of leukemia is observed in heterozygote genotype (CA) of same SNP (OR = 0.36; 95% CI = 0.22–0.59; p = 0.0001). A highly significant association with increased risk of leukemia up to twofolds is observed in heterozygote genotype (AG) of rs753788683 of gene NPM1 (OR 2.10: 95% CI 1.32–3.36 p = 0.0017) while increasing risk by two‐fold and show significant association in homozygous mutant (AA) (OR = 1.75; 95% Cl = 1.09–2.79; p = 0.01). Leukemia risk increases by twofold and shows significant association in the homozygous mutant (AA) of rs11554137 (OR = 1.75; 95%Cl = 1.09–2.79; p = 0.01). Leukemia risk increases by twofold and shows significant association in the homozygous mutant (AA) of rs13051066 of gene RUNX1 (OR = 0.63; 95%Cl = 0.39–1.63; p = 0.06).
Ferroptosis: mechanisms and therapeutic targets
Authors: Zhou Qian , Meng Yu , Le Jiayuan , Sun Yuming , Dian Yating , Yao Lei , Xiong Yixiao , Zeng Furong , Chen Xiang , Deng Guangtong
Published: November 2024

Ferroptosis is a nonapoptotic form of cell death characterized by iron‐dependent lipid peroxidation in membrane phospholipids. Since its identification in 2012, extensive research has unveiled its involvement in the pathophysiology of numerous diseases, including cancers, neurodegenerative disorders, organ injuries, infectious diseases, autoimmune conditions, metabolic disorders, and skin diseases. Oxidizable lipids, overload iron, and compromised antioxidant systems are known as critical prerequisites for driving overwhelming lipid peroxidation, ultimately leading to plasma membrane rupture and ferroptotic cell death. However, the precise regulatory networks governing ferroptosis and ferroptosis‐targeted therapy in these diseases remain largely undefined, hindering the development of pharmacological agonists and antagonists. In this review, we first elucidate core mechanisms of ferroptosis and summarize its epigenetic modifications (e.g., histone modifications, DNA methylation, noncoding RNAs, and N6‐methyladenosine modification) and nonepigenetic modifications (e.g., genetic mutations, transcriptional regulation, and posttranslational modifications). We then discuss the association between ferroptosis and disease pathogenesis and explore therapeutic approaches for targeting ferroptosis. We also introduce potential clinical monitoring strategies for ferroptosis. Finally, we put forward several unresolved issues in which progress is needed to better understand ferroptosis. We hope this review will offer promise for the clinical application of ferroptosis‐targeted therapies in the context of human health and disease.
Association of Hemispheric Asymmetry of Dopamine‐Transporter Binding with Risk of Parkinsonian Depression
Authors: Fernández‐Espejo Emilio , Rodríguez de Fonseca Fernando
Published: November 2024

Background

Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder diagnosed in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). A direct role in PD depression for loss of dopaminergic terminals and dopamine‐transporter (DAT) expression in the striatum is revealed by many studies.

Objectives

The objective was to discern the relationship between DAT neuroimaging and risk of depression in PD.

Methods

One hundred and ninety‐eight PD patients (101 with depression, 97 without depression) were evaluated using an extensive protocol from 2015 to 2023. DAT availability at striatal terminals was assessed with single‐photon emission computed tomography with 123I‐Ioflupane. Specific binding ratio (SBR) of 123I‐Ioflupane and the whole striatum asymmetry index (SASI) were calculated. Data were analyzed with univariate/multivariate models as well as receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

A logistic regression model adjusting for confounding risk factors of depression indicates that SASI and PD duration are associated with the odds of having parkinsonian depression. SASI is the strongest predictor of risk of parkinsonian depression. Following ROC analysis, SASI is found to be an accurate factor for detecting parkinsonian depression because a cutoff value of 3.4895 of SASI shows good accuracy (0.813), sensitivity (81.1%), and specificity (80%). Higher SASI is also linked to more disease‐related limitations in activities of daily living.

Conclusion

The whole SASI is the strongest predictor of risk of parkinsonian depression. The findings could be valuable in evaluating depression in PD patients.
Centralized Versus Decentralized R&D Within a Multiproduct Monopolistic Firm Under Research Spillovers
Authors: Kim Doori , Lee Sang‐Ho , Zikos Vasileios
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the R&D organizational structure of a multi‐product monopolistic firm where the central office decides between centralized and decentralized R&D under research spillovers. We demonstrate that decentralized R&D becomes advantageous when the difference between monitoring and coordination costs is relatively high while products are sufficiently differentiated with lower spillovers. We also find that decentralized R&D can yield higher social welfare under moderate spillovers and product differentiation conditions. Our findings underscore the governmental need for a nuanced approach in designing R&D structures, considering the trade‐offs between centralized and decentralized R&D to align producer and consumer incentives.