bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthetic communities as a model for determining interactions between a biofertilizer chassis organism and native microbial consortia
Authors: Madsen Cody S. , Kimbrel Jeffrey A. , Diep Patrick , Ricci Dante P.
Published: February 2025

Biofertilizers are critical for sustainable agriculture since they can replace ecologically disruptive chemical fertilizers while improving the trajectory of soil and plant health. Yet, to continue improving deployment, the persistence of designer biofertilizers within native soil consortia must be elucidated and enhanced. Here, we describe a high-throughput, modular, and automation-friendlyin vitroapproach to screen for biofertilizer organism persistence within soil-derived consortia after co-cultivation with stable synthetic soil microbial communities (SynComs) obtained through a top-down cultivation process. We profiled ∼1200 SynComs isolated from various soil sources and cultivated in divergent media types, and detected significant phylogenetic diversity (e.g., Shannon index > 4) and richness (Observed richness > 400) across these communities. We observed high reproducibility in SynCom community structure from common soil and media types, which provided a testbed for assessing biofertilizer persistence within representative native consortia. Furthermore, we demonstrate the screening method described herein can be coupled with microbial engineering to efficiently identify soil-derived SynComs where an engineered biofertilizer organism (i.e.Bacillus subtilis) persists. Additionally, our approach enables an analysis of the ecological impact ofB. subtilisinoculation on SynCom structure and profile alterations in community diversity and richness (or lack thereof) associated with the presence of a genetically modified model bacterium. Ultimately, this work establishes a modular pipeline that could be integrated into a variety of microbiology/microbiome-relevant workflows or related applications that would benefit from assessing persistence and interaction of a specific organism of interest with native consortia.
TRIM33 loss reduces Androgen Receptor transcriptional output and H2BK120 ubiquitination
Authors: Eickhoff Nils , Janetzko Janina , Padrão Nuno , Gregoricchio Sebastian , Siefert Joseph C. , Hoekman Liesbeth , Linder Simon , Bleijerveld Onno , Bergman Andries M. , Zwart Wilbert
Published: February 2025

The Androgen Receptor (AR) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor that drives prostate cancer development and progression. Although, a detailed effect on AR biology has been described for a number of interacting proteins, many AR coregulators remain to be characterized in relation to their distinct impact on AR function. Here, we describe TRIM33 as a conserved AR-interactor across multiple prostate cancer cell lines. We observed that TRIM33 and AR share overall chromatin interaction profiles, in which TRIM33 is involved in downstream responsive transcriptomic output. In contrast to prior reports, we show that TRIM33 does not impact AR protein stability, but instead propose a model in which TRIM33 facilitates maximal AR activity by interfering with H2BK120 ubiquitination levels.
Selective manipulation of excitatory and inhibitory neurons in top-down and bottom-up visual pathways using ultrasound stimulation
Authors: Jo Yehhyun , Liang Xiaojia , Nguyen Hong Hanh , Choi Yeonseo , Bae Ga-Eun , Cho Yakdol , Woo Jiwan , Lee Hyunjoo Jenny
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Techniques for precise manipulation of neurons in specific neural pathways are crucial for excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) balance and investigation of complex brain circuits. Low-intensity focused ultrasound stimulation (LIFUS) has emerged as a promising tool for noninvasive deep-brain targeting at high spatial resolution. However, there is a lack of studies that extensively investigate the modulation of top-down and bottom-up corticothalamic circuits via selective manipulation of excitatory and inhibitory neurons. Here, a comprehensive methodology using electrophysiological recording and c-Fos staining is employed to demonstrate pulse repetition frequency (PRF)-dependent E/I selectivity of ultrasound stimulation in the top-down and bottom-up corticothalamic pathways of the visual circuit in rodents.

Materials and methods

Ultrasound stimulation at various PRFs is applied to either the lateral posterior nucleus of the thalamus (LP) or the primary visual cortex (V1), and multi-channel single-unit activity is recorded from the V1 using a silicon probe.

Results and conclusion

Our results demonstrate that high frequency PRFs, particularly at 3 kHz and 1 kHz, are effective at activating the bidirectional corticothalamic visual pathway. In addition, brain region-specific PRFs modulate E/I cortical signals, corticothalamic projections, and synaptic neurotransmission, which is imperative for circuit-specific applications and behavioral studies.
X-ray Spectroscopy Meets Native Mass Spectrometry: Probing Gas-phase Protein Complexes
Authors: Kung Jocky C. K. , Kádek Alan , Kölbel Knut , Bandelow Steffi , Bari Sadia , Buck Jens , Caleman Carl , Commandeur Jan , Damjanović Tomislav , Dörner Simon , Fahmy Karim , Flacht Lara , Heidemann Johannes , Huynh Khon , Kopicki Janine-Denise , Krichel Boris , Lockhauserbäumer Julia , Lorenzen Kristina , Lu Yinfei , Pogan Ronja , Rehmann Jasmin , Schamoni-Kast Kira , Schwob Lucas , Schweikhard Lutz , Springer Sebastian , Svensson Pamela H.W. , Simke Florian , Trinter Florian , Toleikis Sven , Kierspel Thomas , Uetrecht Charlotte
Published: February 2025

Gas-phase activation and dissociation studies of biomolecules, proteins and their non-covalent complexes using X-rays hold great promise for revealing new insights into the structure and function of biological samples. This is due to the unique properties of X-ray molecular interactions, such as site-specific and rapid ionization. In this perspective, we report and discuss the promise of first proof-of-principle studies of X-ray-induced dissociation of native biological samples ranging from small 17 kDa monomeric proteins up to large 808 kDa non-covalent protein assemblies conducted at a synchrotron (PETRA III) and a free-electron laser (FLASH2). A commercially available quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer (Q-ToF2, Micromass/Waters), modified for high-mass analysis by MS Vision, was further adapted for integration with the open ports at the corresponding beamlines. The protein complexes were transferred natively into the gas phase via nano-electrospray ionization and subsequently probed by extreme ultraviolet (FLASH2) or soft X-ray (PETRA III) radiation, in either their folded state or following collision-induced activation in the gas phase. Depending on the size of the biomolecule and the activation method, protein fragmentation, dissociation, or enhanced ionization were observed. Additionally, an extension of the setup by ion mobility is described, which can serve as a powerful tool for structural separation of biomolecules prior to X-ray probing. The first experimental results are discussed in the broader context of current and upcoming X-ray sources, highlighting their potential for advancing structural biology in the future.
A Novel Method for Culturing Telencephalic Neurons in Axolotls
Authors: Bostan Sevginur , Serdengeçtİ Safiye , Bayat F. Kemal , Bay Sadık , Sezer Ayşe Server , Ayşİt Neşe , Öztürk Gürkan
Published: February 2025

The axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum), a neotenic salamander with remarkable regenerative capabilities, serves as a key model for studying nervous system regeneration. Despite its potential, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this regenerative capacity remain poorly understood, partly due to the lack of reliablein vitromodels for axolotl neural cells. In this study, we developed a novel protocol for primary cultures of adult axolotl telencephalon/pallium, enabling the maintenance of viable and functionally active neural cells. Using calcium imaging and immunocytochemistry, we demonstrated the presence of neuronal and glial markers, synaptic connections, and spontaneous calcium activity, highlighting the functional integrity of the cultured cells. Our findings reveal that these cultures can be maintained in both serum and serum-free conditions, with neurons exhibiting robust neurite outgrowth and responsiveness to injury. This protocol addresses a critical gap in axolotl research by providing a controlledin vitrosystem to study neurogenesis and regeneration. By offering insights into the regenerative mechanisms of axolotl neurons, this work lays the foundation for comparative studies with mammalian systems, potentially informing therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases and CNS injuries in humans.
The Impact of Negative Emotions on Adolescents’ Nonsuicidal Self-Injury Thoughts: An Integrated Application of Machine Learning and Multilevel Logistic Models
Authors: Ahn Chan-Young , Kim Jin-Ha , Kim So-Jung , Kim Jae-Won , Na Jung-Jo , Seo Dong-Gi , Lee Jong-Sun
Published: February 2025

Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) is a prevalent and complex behavior among adolescents, often linked to negative emotions such as loneliness, anxiety, and emptiness. Traditional retrospective methodologies often fail to capture the dynamic and real-time nature of NSSI and its emotional triggers due to memory biases and temporal fluctuations. This study aimed to identify emotional predictors of NSSI thoughts among adolescents using machine learning and multilevel logistic regression.

The study included 42 adolescents (aged 12–15 years) who had engaged in NSSI in the past year. Participants reported their mood and NSSI behaviors three times daily over a 14-day EMA period via a smartphone application. Predictor variables included depression, anxiety, loneliness, self-anger, anger towards others, shame, and emptiness. A random forest model identified loneliness (feature importance: 0.40), anxiety (0.18), and emptiness (0.14) as the most significant predictors of NSSI thoughts. Multilevel logistic regression confirmed these findings, showing that each one-unit increase in anxiety, loneliness, and emptiness corresponded to a 24%, 19%, and 24% increase in the odds of experiencing NSSI thoughts, respectively. The ICC value of 0.26 indicated substantial between-individual variance, justifying multilevel modeling. However, random effects analysis revealed no significant individual differences, suggesting uniform effects across participants.

These findings highlight loneliness as the most influential predictor, emphasizing the need to address social connections in interventions. Combining machine learning with traditional statistical methods enhanced interpretability, providing practical insights for developing tailored, emotion-focused interventions for adolescents engaging in NSSI.
Activity of Carbazole, Aminoguanidine and Diamine Anti-infectives againstToxoplasma gondii
Authors: Singh Davinder , Sleda Melissa A. , Pandey Akanksha , Malwal Satish R. , Chen Yiyuan , Zhou Ruijie , Adewole Feyisola , Sadowska Katie , Onajole Oluseye K. , Moreno Silvia N.J. , Oldfield Eric
Published: February 2025

We report the observation that carbazole anti-infectives developed as antibacterial and antifungal drug leads have activity against the tachyzoite-stage growth of the Apicomplexan parasiteToxoplasma gondiiwith IC50values as low as 2 μM. We show that a phenylthiazole aminoguanidine with antibacterial as well as antifungal activity inhibits growth with an IC50value of 2.1 μM. We also tested a series of 18 analogs of the diamine SQ109, a tuberculosis drug candidate which likewise has both antibacterial and antifungal activity, finding activity as low as 2.3 μM. We tested all compounds for their activity in collapsing the ΔpH component of the promotive force, the results indicating that all compounds acted, at least in part, as protonophore uncouplers. Finally, we also investigated the correlation between the activity of all compounds against the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaeand the bacteriumMycobacterium smegmatis, finding significant correlations between the collapse of the proton motive force and anti- fungal/antibacterial activity.
“It falls upon you to create a better place”: exploring ephemeral online communities under the lens of organisational configurations
Authors: Jemine Grégory
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to extend Mintzberg’s theory of organisational configurations to the specific context of ephemeral online communities. As such communities self-organise rapidly and temporarily, without fixed hierarchies, authority relationships or formal structures, they represent a novel and challenging subject of study from an organisational perspective. In this paper, the author argues that configuration theory can nevertheless be a powerful framework to understand how such communities organise collective action.

Design/methodology/approach

An analysis of a social experiment organised by the Reddit platform called “The Place” is used to study emergent coordination mechanisms in ephemeral online communities. Drawing on data gathered from Reddit and from the experiment’s outcomes, this paper focuses upon the coordinating mechanisms deployed by different communities to establish themselves in a position of power.

Findings

Using configuration theory, the author outlines four main ways for the participants to coordinate their actions in ephemeral online contexts. The findings suggest that, beyond the study of more traditional organisational contexts, configuration theory is a powerful framework for understanding more emergent and contemporary forms of organising.

Originality/value

This paper assesses the validity of a well-rounded theory in organisation studies, configuration theory, to study a novel type of organisations – ephemeral online communities. In doing so, it offers new insights into how online environments can facilitate and structure collective action without traditional organisational structures, thus advancing the study of online coordination mechanisms.
Social enterprise development in Ireland: making a case for actor-network-theory
Authors: Quinn Úna , McCusker Paul , Gallagher Padraig
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The development of social enterprises in Ireland holds much promise with regards to the potential to create innovation and growth within local economies. However, fulfilling this promise requires the ability to recognise the complexities of this multifaced sector. In response, this article proposes Actor-Network-Theory (ANT) as having the theoretical capability to develop and create further progress in social enterprise development in Ireland.

Design/methodology/approach

ANT upholds that reality consists of series of heterogeneous networks composed of relations between entities. This relational lens foregrounds the interactions among the varied actors involved in social enterprise. To investigate the capabilities of ANT, this paper aligns ANT with three core areas of concern for social enterprise research: structure, power and shared meaning.

Findings

ANT works to address these identified key concerns by bridging the conceptual divide between theory and practice within the social enterprise sector. This brings to light the state of affairs as empirically practiced and not as recognised under traditional dualisms. As a result, the influences which shape the collective reality of social enterprise networks can be empirically investigated.

Originality/value

As an alternative sensibility, the core capabilities of ANT lie in the ability of the theory to reclaim an empirical grasp of a local environment. In this instance, it is demonstrated as to how this theoretical approach can be used to understand how growth and development manifests within social enterprise networks. From this, there is a great potential to use these insights to direct change in the place of random, and often contested, growth.
Mapping global trends and future opportunities in Islamic banking windows: a 15-year bibliometric perspective (2008–2023)
Authors: Mainata Dedy , Hanafi Mamduh M.M. , Setiyono Bowo
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Islamic banking windows have attracted a considerable deal of scholarly attention lately, as shown by the sharp rise in publications across the globe. The growing number of Islamic banking windows being published demonstrates how much scholarly interest there has been in this topic. To evaluate the body of knowledge on Islamic banking windows, this paper aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

A bibliometric examination of literature samples pulled in July 2023 from the Scopus database served as the study’s methodology. In total, 79 publications that met the criteria for selection and were published between 2008 and 2023 made up the study’s sample size. Software like RStudio (Rshiny), VOSviewer and Microsoft Excel have been used to evaluate the data. Three major kinds of analyses were carried out: overall performance indicators, citation analysis and cross-dimensional keyword analysis. A quick content analysis to pinpoint research flows then followed.

Findings

The number of publications increased noticeably between 2019 and 2021, with Abdul Majid M. contributing the most with four articles published during that time. The findings also include the countries, groups, publications, works, sources and topics that have contributed the most. This examination found five research streams that have already been examined by other writers out of 79 papers. Comparative efficiency, Islamic banking’s customer, performance, risk and liquidity management are some of the research areas covered. With precise research questions, this study further outlined the future research agenda.

Research limitations/implications

The scope of this study is restricted to English-language journal articles appearing in sources that are Scopus-indexed. A variety of databases, including Dimensions and the Web of Science, as well as expanding the investigated units, could be used in future research. Future studies might center on the systematic review of publications published on certain topics, whereas this study only focused on bibliometric analysis and research streams.

Originality/value

Despite the fact that Islamic banking is a fascinating topic for research, as far as the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first bibliometric analysis of Islamic banking windows. The five research streams identified in this study also offer numerous potential research topics in a unique way.
Trickle-down effects of supervisors’ family-to-work enrichment and conflict: the roles of supervisor support and dyadic similarity
Authors: Wang Peng , Steed Laurens Bujold , Wang Zhen
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Drawing upon the Conservation of Resources theory and Relational Demography Theory, we examine the crossover of supervisor family experiences to subordinates in the workplace. We posit that supervisor family-to-work enrichment and conflict influence subordinate perceptions of supervisor support for work–family, which, in turn, positively affects subordinate work engagement and job satisfaction and negatively affects subordinate turnover intentions. The effects of supervisor family-to-work enrichment and conflict on perceptions of supervisor support are respectively suggested to be strengthened and weakened by the demographic similarity between the supervisor and the subordinate.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 496 employees nested within 83 supervisors from China, we conducted a multilevel analysis.

Findings

Our results indicate that supervisor family-to-work conflict and supervisor family-to-work enrichment have negative and positive effects (respectively) on subordinates’ perceptions of supervisor work–family support, and this effect is moderated by low, rather than high, similarity in the supervisor–subordinate dyad. An overall indirect effect of supervisor family-to-work enrichment and family-to-work conflict on subordinate work engagement, job satisfaction and turnover intentions through the mediator of perceived supervisor work–family support is also confirmed.

Practical implications

From a practical standpoint, our research emphasizes the importance for organizations to support supervisors in achieving work–family balance in order to promote positive employee work-related outcomes.

Originality/value

Our study contributes to work–family literature by unraveling how and when resources may travel through supervisors to affect the generation of new resources (i.e. supervisor support for work–family) and ultimately affect subordinate outcomes in the workplace.
Analysis of the Functional Role of TIMM29 in the Hepatitis B Virus Life Cycle
Authors: Abueldahab Limia , Suwanmanee Yadarat , Muriungi Nelly , Ohsakai Eriko , Wada Masami , Kimura‐Ohba Shihoko , Ueda Keiji
Published: February 2025

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) causes chronic hepatitis B, which can progress to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. HBV has complex interactions with various cell organelles and proteins that ensure effective progeny virus production. We previously reported that a mitochondrial protein, TIMM29, should regulate the HBV life cycle through interactions with the HBV preS1 protein. Here, we established Halo‐TIMM29wt‐, Halo‐TIMM29:∆99–192‐, and Halo‐TIMM29:92–194‐expressing cells using TIMM29‐knockout HB611 (TIMM29KO/HB611) cells, a stably HBV‐producing cell line based on Huh6 cells. We found that HBV antigen expression and replication were downregulated in cells stably expressing full‐length TIMM29, but not in those expressing TIMM29 deletion mutants. On the other hand, in the case of TIMM29‐knockout C4 (TIMM29KO/C4), which is a human NTCP‐expressing HepG2 cell line that is competent for HBV infection and amplification, these phenomena were not reproduced, except in full‐length TIMM29 (Halo‐TIMM29wt)‐expressing cells. Using gene expression microarrays, we identified downregulation of ARRDC3 and BASP1 in TIMM29KO/HB611 and TIMM29KO/C4. It was suggested that TIMM29 localized at the mitochondrial inner membrane served as a signaling hub, orchestrating the activation of ARRDC3 and BASP1 expression to restrict HBV transcription. The expression of TIMM29 mutants in TIMM29KO/HB611 and TIMM29KO/C4 cells suggested that ARRDC3 was dependent on the HBV preS1‐binding region of TIMM29 (amino acids 99–189). In contrast, BASP1 expression varied according to cell type, indicating additional regulatory mechanisms. Thus, this study should significantly advance our understanding of TIMM29‐mediated inhibition of HBV amplification and lead to improvements in antiviral strategies and therapeutic interventions against HBV.
Grazing regulates temperate grassland multidimensional stability facing extreme winter snowfall reductions by influencing below‐ground bud density
Authors: Guo Tongtian , Zhang Hao , Guo Meiqi , Yang Gaowen , Xu Hengkang , Jing Xin , Liu Nan , Zhang Yingjun
Published: February 2025

Global climate changes increased the frequency of snowfall reduction events in the Northern Hemisphere, consequently suppressing plant productivity. Grazing, the most widespread use of grasslands, influences productivity in response to climatic extremes by shaping community structure. Since grazing could disrupt normal plant growth and reproduction, rest from grazing at various stages of the growing season may have different effects on above‐ and below‐ground community properties. However, how grazing or grazing rest at different stages of growing season affects grassland stability when facing extreme snowfall reduction remains unclear.

We investigated the multidimensional stability (resistance, resilience, recovery and temporal stability) of above‐ground net primary productivity (ANPP) under a time‐dependent strategic‐rest grazing practice (rest in early, peak and late growing stage) experiment, during which a natural extreme snowfall reduction event occurred. We also assessed plant richness, dominance, asynchrony, key functional group stability and below‐ground bud density to explore the mechanisms underlying multidimensional stability.

We found that extreme snowfall reduction significantly decreased grassland ANPP under all grazing practices. However, grazing with short‐term rest during the peak growing stage significantly enhanced ANPP, improved resistance and recovery from extreme snowfall reduction, and consequently greatly improved the temporal stability compared to continuous grazing. In contrast, the grazing rest during the early and late growing stages did not improve temporal stability of ANPP. Meanwhile, resilience was not affected by grazing practices. The benefits of peak rest primarily arise from allowing the formation of sufficient below‐ground buds before and after extreme events. Notably, changes in community properties (such as diversity or asynchrony) resulting from the rest were not correlated with resistance and recovery. Additionally, the increases in grass bud density from the peak rest indirectly contributed to temporal stability by enhancing the stability of perennial rhizome grass and preserving community composition.

Synthesis. These findings underscore the essential role of plant below‐ground buds in sustaining stable grassland productivity in response to snowfall reduction and also suggest that grassland management strategies should account for the protection of plant asexual reproductive organs, which contributes to grassland sustainability in the face of future climate change.
Hair root sonication washing impact on nuclei counts
Authors: Betts Stephanie M. , Espinoza Quiroga Ivette A. , Otterstatter Linda M. , Donfack Joseph
Published: February 2025

In a previous study, hair samples were washed by sonication in Terg‐a‐zyme™ (Alconox, White Plaines, NY, USA) as part of the DNA extraction protocol. The sonication wash step was deemed necessary in the previous study because the DNA extracts could be used for both mitochondrial (mt) and nuclear(nu) DNA analyses. In the current study, the impact of the sonication wash on the persistence of nuclei was assessed. Scalp hair roots were stained using the DNA binding dye 4′, 6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole (DAPI) and visible nuclei were counted. Hair roots that contained <50 visible nuclei were primarily used to monitor the change in the number of visible nuclei due to sonication. Hair roots with a larger number of nuclei counts (e.g., >100) were also included as comparative data. The selected hair samples were washed by sonication in Terg‐a‐zyme™. The number of nuclei detected in unwashed DAPI‐stained hair roots was compared with the number in washed DAPI‐stained hair roots. Intricacies that impeded visible nuclei counting in the same hair root were observed, such as orientation of the mounted hair root, hair root morphology, turgescence, and folding of soft tissue. Despite these challenges, this study showed the sonication wash of hair roots containing <50 visible nuclei might lead to a reduction of nuclei available for DNA extraction and short tandem repeat (STR) typing. However, for laboratories performing only nuDNA analysis, the sonication could be replaced with a less aggressive hair washing method such as briefly vortexing at low speed in saline followed by an ethanol rinse.
Ethnic Minority Disparities in the Epidemiology of Metabolic Dysfunction‐Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in a Representative Area of China
Authors: Ye Jun Zhao , Lin Li Min , Shao Cong Xiang , Mo Sui Lin , Ye Miao Sheng , Li Xiao Yi , Li Qing , Wang Wen Geng , Zheng Qiao Cong , Luo Ke , Zhang Yi , Tu Shou Wei , Che Dai Tuan , Gong Ru Long , Chen Xing , Miu Rong , Sun Yan Hong , Wu Ting Feng , Zhong Bi Hui
Published: February 2025

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the differences in clinical features and lifestyle between Han and ethnic minority populations in Guangdong Province, China and their impacts on the ever‐growing burden of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).

Methods

In this cross‐sectional investigation in Guangdong Province, China, one of the most densely populated areas with imbalanced development, multistage stratified random sampling was used. Demographic, socioeconomic, and lifestyle data of participants were collected. Assessment of hepatic steatosis and liver stiffness measurement were performed.

Results

A total of 7287 individuals were recruited, including 7076 Han and 211 ethnic minority individuals, with similar MASLD prevalence between the two groups (35.8% vs 34.6%, p = 0.771). More ethnic minority individuals presented advanced fibrosis (≥ F3) overall and in subgroups of overweight/obesity, lean/normal weight, and males, but less advanced fibrosis in females and age of 30–34 years (all p < 0.05) than the Han Chinese. Proper physical activity was associated with a reduced risk of MASLD (Han: odds ratio [OR] 0.64, p = 0.021; ethnic minority: OR 0.06, p = 0.017). Sufficient sleep, drinking tea, and dietary fiber intake were protective factors for MASLD, while long sedentary duration, midnight snacks, dining out, and excessive intake of salt, red meat, and sugar were associated with a higher risk of MASLD in Han Chinese only.

Conclusions

There was a strikingly high burden of MASLD in the ethnic minority in Guangdong Province, China, and their lifestyle differences compared with Han Chinese may contribute to the epidemic surge of MASLD.
Predictive Role of FDG PET‐CT in Localised Rectal Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Lew Leslie Zhi Wei , Mac Curtain Benjamin M. , Siew Teck , Ng Zi Qin
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Rectal carcinoma (RC) has high incidence and rate of recurrence. Currently, routine 18‐ fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET‐CT) is not recommend for routine monitoring for post RC treatment. We examined the utility of FDG PET‐CT for the prognostication of patients with RC and what FDG PET‐CT metrics are of value.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE, and Cochrane (Central) were comprehensively searched till 19 May 2024. A modified Newcastle Ottawa scale was used to assess for study bias. We presented our systematic review alongside pooled hazard ratios (HR) for maximum standardised uptake values (SUV) as a predictor of disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

Eleven papers including 771 patients were included in our systematic review. Considering the current evidence, there is potential to consider percentage change in SUVmax, TLG, MTV, and lymph node highest peak SUV as possible predictors of outcome for localised non metastatic rectal carcinoma.

Conclusions

Pooled meta‐analysis of three homogenous parameters examines the relationship of SUVMax and survival, and did not demonstrate correlation with survival outcomes. The overall pooled hazard ratio for pretreatment SUVMax to DFS was 0.69, CI (0.29–1.63). The overall pooled HR for post treatment SUVMax to DFS was 0.88, CI (0.43–1.81), and posttreatment SUVMax to OS was 1.73, CI (0.34–8.66). Post treatment FDG PET‐CT may have a role to play in the prognostic evaluation of RC patients; however, further data is required.
The Impact of Toll‐Like Receptor 5 on Liver Function in Age‐Related Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Kim Dong‐Hyun , Go Hye Sun , Jeon Eun Jae , Nguyen Thi Quynh Trang , Kim Da Yeon , Park Hansung , Eom Hyo‐Ji , Kim Sung Young , Park Sang Chul , Cho Kyung A
Published: February 2025

Toll‐like receptor 5 (TLR5) plays a critical role beyond its traditional function in innate immunity, significantly impacting metabolic regulation and liver health. Previously, we reported that TLR5 activation extends the healthspan and lifespan of aging mice. This study demonstrates that TLR5 deficiency leads to pronounced metabolic abnormalities with age, primarily affecting liver metabolic functions rather than intestinal inflammation. Comprehensive RNA sequencing analysis revealed that TLR5 deficiency induces gene expression changes in liver tissue similar to those caused by the methionine–choline deficient (MCD) diet, particularly affecting lipid metabolism and circadian rhythm‐related genes. TLR5 knockout (TLR5 KO) mice displayed an increased propensity for liver fibrosis and lipid accumulation under the MCD diet, exacerbating liver pathology. Both hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells in TLR5 KO mice were functionally impacted, leading to metabolic dysfunction and fibrosis. These findings suggest that TLR5 could be a significant target for addressing metabolic diseases that arise and worsen with aging. Furthermore, understanding the mechanisms by which TLR5 activation extends healthspan could provide valuable insights into therapeutic strategies for enhancing longevity and managing age‐related metabolic disorders.
Preserving Short‐Sward Natural Grasslands May Provide Suitable Foraging Habitat for a Climate‐Threatened Alpine Species Along Ski‐Pistes
Authors: Bettega Chiara , Luciani Pietro , Roseo Francesca , Pedrini Paolo , Leonardi Stefano , Brambilla Mattia
Published: February 2025

In many mountain regions, tourism represents one of the main sources of income. Winter sports are often prevalent and, in the last decades, infrastructures linked to the ski industry have expanded worldwide in mountain ranges. Mountains are dramatically suffering the effects of climate change, many species are contracting or declining and ski‐pistes are predicted to shrink towards higher elevations. For high‐elevation ecosystems and species, the construction of ski‐pistes is a major issue, impacting on species such as alpine birds already threatened by climate change. Here, by assessing the ultimate drivers of habitat selection during the breeding season, we investigated the impacts of ski‐pistes in the Dolomites on the foraging behaviour of the white‐winged snowfinch Montifringilla nivalis, an iconic alpine bird highly threatened by climate change. Our results show that snowfinches, during the critical period of nestling rearing, prefer to forage on snow patches and short grass on medium slope, characteristics frequently found on the studied ski‐pistes. We also observed a marked effect of the temperature‐solar radiation interaction: snowfinches forage in sunlit areas when ambient temperature is low, while under higher temperatures they prefer shady zones, probably due to specific physiological/thermoregulatory requirements. Foraging snowfinches and ski‐pistes are associated with some shared environmental characteristics. This implies that the impact of ski‐pistes could be mitigated by adequate management targeted at maintaining short‐sward alpine grassland (e.g., through avoidance/reduction of machine grading and controlled grazing) and residual snow patches (preventing the complete levelling of the slope and maintaining shallow depressions in areas with lower solar radiation). Such strategies could contribute to reducing the ecological footprint of current and future ski resorts on alpine ecosystems.
Oedipus without mommy–daddy: How anthropologists pushed psychiatrists to go beyond the Oedipus Complex
Authors: Khan Sanaullah
Published: February 2025

The contemporary psychiatric landscape's overreliance on diagnostic classifications and the reliance of psychodynamic approaches on kinship caricatures to treat mental illnesses neglect lived realities and relational experiences of trauma. This makes it necessary to return to the anthropological critique of 20th century psychoanalysis as anthropologists pushed to consider the plurality of ways in which people experience the reverberations of traumas in wider kinship networks. These engagements played a central role in making the case for the “de‐familiarization” of the family by throwing light on lateral kinship formations and fragmentation beyond the nuclear family. Given the rise in biological theories and psychoanalytic explanations for transgenerational trauma, returning to anthropological engagement with early 20th century psychoanalytic theory can enable psychiatrists and mental health professionals to become more aware of the relational experiences of kinship structures and the psychological impacts of their assimilation or fragmentation, without entirely biologizing trauma, nor relying on caricatures of what interpersonal relations ought to be like for psychological well‐being.
The Prognostic Significance of PD‐L1 Expression and Associated Tumor‐Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Supraglottic Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zvrko Elvir , Kadic Muhedin , Vuckovic Ljiljana
Published: February 2025

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is characterized by diverse profiles of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). We aimed to investigate the potential prognostic role of TILs and programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) in patients with supraglottic LSCC. The expression of PD‐L1 and TILs was assessed using immunohistochemistry in 39 patients with primary supraglottic LSCC and correlated with clinicopathological characteristics and disease‐free survival (DFS). Survival curves were measured using the Kaplan–Meier method, and differences in survival between the groups were estimated using the log‐rank test. TIL density was significantly higher in PD‐L1‐positive (combined positive score: CPS ≥ 1) than in PD‐L1‐negative (CPS < 1) patients (p = 0.000). Lower PD‐L1 expression was significantly associated with a locoregional recurrence (Fisher's exact test, p = 0.008). DFS was significantly longer in patients with CPS ≥ 1 than in those with CPS < 1 (Log‐rank test, p = 0.004). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that a low CPS (p = 0.003) and positive nodal status (p = 0.012) were statistically significant and independent predictors of malignancy recurrence. PD‐L1 represents a valuable marker for predicting recurrence and shorter survival after definitive therapy.
Making long‐acting treatment work: Tracing connections with extended‐release buprenorphine depot through time
Authors: Gendera Sandra , Lancaster Kari , Rhodes Tim , Treloar Carla
Published: February 2025

Introduction

How people connect with opioid agonist treatment is an ongoing concern. Extended‐release buprenorphine depot (BUP‐XR) has been designed with ‘retention’ in mind. It is important to consider what makes a difference to clients in helping them to stay connected to treatment over time.

Methods

We report findings from the third wave of in‐depth interviews with participants (n = 26) in the Community Long‐Acting Buprenorphine (CoLAB) study, tracing accounts of connection, disconnection and reconnection with BUP‐XR since initiation into treatment.

Results

Changing situations in treatment delivery and in people's lives created conditions of possibility for connection and disconnection to treatment. Clients used BUP‐XR in different ways. Personalisation of dosing regimens and stretching out of time between doses was common, creating a sense of stability for some. For others, this flexibility potentiated fragility in treatment connection. Disconnection from BUP‐XR was common, but frequently this was not the ultimate outcome. Treatment connections were shaped by fluctuating life circumstances, with re‐connections imagined, attempted and sometimes realised.

Discussion and conclusions

Clients' accounts reveal the complexities of how ‘long‐acting’ treatments are made to work over time. Connecting with treatment in the long‐term is a process, contingent on social relations, fluctuating life conditions and systems of care. Rather than treating connection and disconnection as opposites, we suggest seeing these as entangled and fluid elements of an ongoing process. What is needed is an adaptive and emergent conceptualisation of what ‘retention’ in treatment can mean, reflective of how people connect with their treatment and make it work, in practice.
Exploring Local Aspects for a Culturally and Contextually Adapted Family Therapy Training in Cambodia
Authors: Pfautsch Bernhild , Ochs Matthias , Lim Bouyheak , Falicov Celia Jaes
Published: February 2025

The goal of this study was to further local knowledge production and the ground‐up cultural and contextual competencies needed for family therapy training and practice in Cambodia. First, expert interviews were conducted with Cambodian and international mental health professionals with several years of professional experience in Cambodia (N = 25; 72% Cambodian, 52% female). Current characteristics of Cambodian family life and related problems were identified, as well as aspects of the current reality of mental health services in this Southeast Asian nation, which continue to be counted among the low‐ and middle‐income countries (LAMICs). Second, in a group discussion with four Cambodian trainer experts in family therapy, the cultural and contextual competencies to be developed in the training of Cambodian family therapists were identified. The competencies for incorporating religious beliefs, respecting hierarchical family structures/expressing respect, and competencies for dealing with the cultural imperative of silence/face‐saving appear to be significant. For the trainees, it is precisely here that areas of tension were described—triggered by collusion of their own value systems with those implicit in Western concepts. These moments of alienation should be carefully registered for reflection. The experience of dissonance in relation to certain content and procedures points precisely to the need for adaptation by local experts for the development of culturally appropriate curricula.
Effect of Microstructural Evolution on Ultra‐High‐Cycle‐Fatigue Behavior of Two‐Phase Titanium Alloy Suitable for Ultrasonic Scalpel Applications
Authors: He Zheyu , Xu Junxiao , Cao Fuhua , Cheng Yi , He Hao , Li Yimin , Qin Jianchun
Published: February 2025

Two‐phase titanium alloy, pivotal in ultrasonic scalpels, exhibits working dynamics similar to fatigue behavior under axial vibration loading (R = −1) exceeding 20 kHz, with its ultra‐high‐cycle fatigue (UHCF) performance being crucial for clinical applications. This study investigates the UHCF properties of the Ti6Al4V alloy by evaluating microstructure variations and provides insights into the mechanism of nanograin formation and expansion in the internal crack initiation sites. Key findings indicate that a partially recrystallized microstructure (annealed at 650°C) exhibits the highest fatigue life, with enhanced resistance to crack initiation attributed to elongated α grains, moderate texture intensity, and optimal basal slip activation. Internal small‐scale inclusions, which precede deformed α grains, can also serve as initiation sites for cracks in the UHCF regime. The formation of nanograins at crack initiation sites is primarily driven by the slip of basal  dislocations, with their subsequent growth influenced by the type of surrounding grain boundaries. This study provides a profound understanding of the relationship between dislocation motion and internal crack initiation in Ti6Al4V alloy, offering valuable insights for optimizing the microstructural design of ultrasonic scalpels to enhance clinical durability.
Comparability of Fatigue Strength and Life Estimation of a CF‐PEKK Composite Under Low and Ultrasonic Frequencies Using Time‐Temperature‐Based Approaches
Authors: Premanand Aravind , Schimmelpfeng Hanna , Balle Frank
Published: February 2025

Predicting very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) life in composites is challenging due to the lengthy testing times required by traditional methods. Ensuring compatibility between VHCF and high cycle fatigue (HCF) data presents an additional challenge. This investigation examines CF‐PEKK fatigue behavior under low and ultrasonic cyclic frequencies using a thermographic approach and the fracture fatigue entropy (FFE) concept. Constant‐amplitude fatigue (CAF) and increasing‐amplitude fatigue (IAF) tests were conducted, with self‐heating behavior analyzed for different loading conditions. Heat dissipation rates from IAF experiments and fatigue data from three CAF experiments at 40 Hz and three at 20 kHz were used to calculate FFE values. Results showed that the self‐heating response of CF‐PEKK specimens helps achieve comparable fatigue data across frequencies, with consistent FFE ranges identified between HCF and VHCF regimes. This consistency highlights that FFE can provide reliable fatigue life estimation for composites.
Morphological characteristics of normal and oily skin in different phototypes
Authors: de Cássia Pavezi Júlia , Kakuda Letícia , Campos Patrícia Maria Berardo Gonçalves Maia
Published: February 2025

Objective

A better understanding of the different skin types is very important as a support for the development of more specific cosmetics. In this context, the objective of this study was to evaluate the morphological characteristics of normal and oily skin in different phototypes by biophysical and skin imaging techniques.

Methods

Seventy‐seven females, aged 18–32 years, phototypes II–V, with oily or normal skin, participated in the study. Instrumental measurements in terms of skin surface sebum and hydration, transepidermal water loss, pore count, skin microrelief, and morphology characteristics of the skin were performed.

Results

The phototype influenced pore count, sebaceous gland activity and skin topography, and skin oiliness showed higher sebaceous gland activity and pore count. Reflectance confocal microscopy image analysis showed deeper dermal papillae in phototype V, both in oily and normal skin, with a thinner epidermal and granulosum layer in oily skin. In addition, darker phototypes exhibited differences in furrow size and a higher prevalence of polycyclic dermal papillae.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of phototype and skin oiliness for a better understanding of skin characteristics, showing the impact of different skin phototypes on pore count, topography, and morphological characteristics of the skin. Thus, understanding how these factors influence skin can help the development of more targeted and effective cosmetics according to skin type.
Gender Differences in Disease Burden, Symptom Burden, and Quality of Life Among People Living With Heart Failure and Multimorbidity: Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Lim Arum , Benjasirisan Chitchanok , Tebay Jordan , Liu Xiaoyue , Badawi Sarah , Himmelfarb Cheryl Dennison , Davidson Patricia M. , Koirala Binu
Published: February 2025

Aim

Heart failure is a leading cause of hospitalisation and often coexists with seven comorbid conditions on average. This study aimed to examine the gender differences in disease burden, symptom burden, and quality of life among older adults with heart failure and multimorbidity.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

This study utilised a baseline survey from an ongoing cohort study in 2022–2023. Adults aged ≥ 50 years with heart failure and more than one chronic condition were recruited from a university‐affiliated hospital using an electronic patient portal. Disease burden was measured using a modified Disease Burden Impact Scale. The Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale and EuroQoL‐5D‐5L assessed symptom burden and quality of life. Gender differences in baseline outcomes were examined using Pearson's Chi‐square tests, Welch's t‐tests, and multiple linear regressions.

Results

Among 353 participants who completed the baseline survey, the mean (±SD) age was 70 (±9.5) years, and 50.1% were women (mean age: 67 ± 9 vs. men: 72 ± 10). In adjusted models, women had 4.9 points higher disease burden (p = 0.003) and reported higher symptom scores of pain (p = 0.018), tiredness (p = 0.021), nausea (p = 0.007), and loss of appetite compared to men (p = 0.036). Women had significantly more moderate/severe problems in usual activities and pain/discomfort and 0.07 points lower EuroQoL index than men (p = 0.010).

Conclusions

There were gender differences in disease/symptom burdens and quality of life. Women living with heart failure and multimorbidity had higher burdens but lower quality of life.

Impact

Identifying gender differences among people with heart failure and multimorbidity can be the first step to explaining health disparities. Research should take more inclusive and equitable approaches to address these differences. Healthcare providers, including nurses, should implement targeted strategies for effective multimorbidity management by considering these differences and disparities in clinical settings.

Reporting Method

STROBE checklist, cross‐sectional.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.