bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TIM‐3 marks measurable residual leukemic stem cells responsible for relapse after allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Sakoda Teppei , Kikushige Yoshikane , Irifune Hidetoshi , Kawano Gentaro , Harada Takuya , Semba Yuichiro , Hayashi Masayasu , Shima Takahiro , Mori Yasuo , Eto Tetsuya , Kamimura Tomohiko , Iwasaki Hiromi , Ogawa Ryosuke , Yoshimoto Goichi , Kato Koji , Maeda Takahiro , Miyamoto Toshihiro , Akashi Koichi
Published: December 2024

In this study, we investigated the measurable residual leukemic stem cell (MR‐LSC) population after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo‐SCT) for high‐risk acute myeloid leukemia (AML), utilizing T‐cell immunoglobulin mucin‐3 (TIM‐3) expression as a functional marker of AML leukemic stem cells (LSCs). Analysis of the CD34+CD38− fraction of bone marrow cells immediately after achievement of engraftment revealed the presence of both TIM‐3+LSCs and TIM‐3− donor hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) at varying ratios. Genetic analysis confirmed that TIM‐3+ cells harbored patient‐specific mutations identical to those found in AML clones, whereas TIM‐3− cells did not, indicating that TIM‐3+CD34+CD38− cells represent residual AML LSCs. In 92 allo‐SCT occasions involving 83 AML patients, we enumerated the frequencies of TIM‐3+LSCs immediately after achieving hematologic complete remission with complete donor cell chimerism. Notably, only 22.2% of patients who achieved a TIM‐3+MR‐LSClow status (<60%) experienced relapse, with a median event‐free survival (EFS) of 1581 days (median follow‐up duration was 2177 days among event‐free survivors). Conversely, 87.5% of patients with TIM‐3+MR‐LSCint/high (≥60%) relapsed, with a median EFS of 140.5 days. Furthermore, MR‐LSC status emerged as a significant independent risk factor for relapse (hazard ratio, 8.56; p < 0.0001), surpassing the impact of patient disease status prior to allo‐SCT, including failure to achieve complete remission (hazard ratio, 1.98; p = 0.048). These findings suggest that evaluating TIM‐3+ MR‐LSCs immediately after engraftment, which reflects the competitive reconstitution of residual TIM‐3+ LSCs and donor HSCs, may be valuable for predicting outcomes in AML patients undergoing allo‐SCT.
Osteocalcin in Infancy and Early Childhood and Its Correlation With Later Growth and Body Composition: A Longitudinal Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Berggren Sara , Dahlgren Jovanna , Andersson Ola , Bergman Stefan , Roswall Josefine
Published: December 2024

Background

Osteocalcin is a metabolic active hormone, which correlates positively with bone formation and inversely with body mass index and waist circumference in adults.

Objectives

To investigate whether osteocalcin in infancy and early childhood were related to childhood growth or body composition.

Methods

A Swedish longitudinal birth cohort with blood samples from 551 children from birth until 5 years of age. Regular anthropometric measurements were carried out up to 8 years of age and dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans were also performed at 8 years. The results included p‐values and Spearman's rho (ρ).

Results

Osteocalcin at 4 months of age correlated inversely and consecutively with weight from 4 to 24 months and to waist circumference from 6 to 24 months in boys. The correlations for girls were limited to weight at 4 months and waist circumference at 6 and 18 months (ρ < 0.3, p = 0.001 to 0.048). The boys' osteocalcin levels at 5 years correlated positively with their height and weight at 5 and 6.5 years (ρ < 0.3, p < 0.01). Meanwhile, the girls' osteocalcin at 3 years showed positive correlations to all weight and height measurements until 8 years of age (ρ < 0.3, p = 0.003 to 0.023). DXA data showed that the boys' osteocalcin at 5 years correlated with the fat‐free mass index (FFMI) (ρ 0.212, p = 0.026) but not the fat mass index (FMI) at 8 years. The opposite was seen for the girls' osteocalcin at 3 years, which correlated with FMI (ρ 0.222, p = 0.020) but not FFMI.

Conclusion

Early levels of osteocalcin showed inverse correlations with later weight, height and body composition in infancy and positive correlations during childhood. The weak but consistent correlations suggest that osteocalcin carries information about future growth. Girls with high osteocalcin at 3 and 5 years had a larger fat mass at 8 years, while boys, in contrast, had a larger lean mass. These sex differences need to be further explored.
Results of Concurrent Patch Testing of Brazilian and Chinese Propolis
Authors: van Oers Emma M. , Ipenburg Norbertus A. , de Groot Anton , Calta Evelyn , Rustemeyer Thomas
Published: December 2024

Background

In Amsterdam, a steep increase in positive reactions to propolis in the European baseline series was observed from 2.8% in 2020 to 16.4% in 2023. We hypothesised that this was caused by the replacement of Chinese propolis by Brazilian propolis.

Objectives

To test this hypothesis and to compare rates of positive patch tests to Brazilian propolis with those to Chinese popolis.

Patients and Methods

In a prospective study, 2 commercial Chinese propolis patch test samples were tested in consecutive patients in addition to Brazilian propolis.

Results

Of 239 patients patch tested, 57 (23.8%) had a positive reaction to Brazilian propolis, and 9 (3.8%) to Chinese propolis. Of the 57 reactions to Brazilian propolis, only 2 (3.5%) were found to be clinically relevant, versus 3/9 (33.3%) for Chinese propolis. Patients reacting to Brazilian propolis had significantly more co‐reactivities to fragrance mixes 1 and 2 and to limonene hydroperoxides than propolis B‐negative individuals.

Conclusions

The results confirm our hypothesis that the observed increase in positive patch tests to propolis between 2020 and 2023 was the result of the switch from Chinese to Brazilian propolis. The rates of reactions to both propolis samples from China were significantly lower than to Brazilian propolis.
Gender‐Based Violence in Academic Contexts: Between Capitalist Logic and Ordinary University Practices in Italy and Poland
Authors: Grignoli Daniela , D'Ambrosio Mariangela , Pierzchalski Filip
Published: December 2024

The contemporary capitalist practice, a neoliberal version, promotes the model of a public university as a profitable enterprise providing high‐quality educational services. This means a situation in which public higher education is subject to market pressures, including the narrative of irreversible privatisation and marketisation. It is also the occurrence of academic capitalism, associated with three specific processes: commercialisation, capitalisation and financialisation. Such neoliberal ideas mean enormous changes in the orientation of teaching and the organisation of higher education institutions for universities. At the same time, these changes are related to the roles and functions of women in academia, considering also the discrimination and violence against them. On this basis, the article aims to reflect on the differences and similarities between the Italian and Polish academic systems by attempting to reconstruct the socio‐economic and political framework, also in the EU, considering the gender gap.
Psychometric Properties of the German Student‐Specific Teacher Self‐Efficacy Scale (SS‐TSES‐G)
Authors: Przibilla Bodo , Enderle Chiara , Casale Gino , Scheer David , Platte Anett , Melzer Conny , Leidig Tatjana
Published: December 2024

Based on previous research, it can be assumed that teachers' self‐efficacy (TSE) varies across situations, domains and individual students' behaviors confronting teachers with particularly challenging tasks. The construct of student‐specific TSE is considered informative theoretical basis for understanding the relationship between affective‐motivational components of teachers' competencies and individual student behaviour. The aim of the present study was to translate and validate the Student‐Specific Teacher Self‐Efficacy Scale (SS‐TSES; Zee and Koomen, 2015) for use in German teacher samples. The items of the original SS‐TSES were translated from Dutch to German using a forward‐backward translation procedure. A total of 477 teachers completed the SS‐TSES‐G. After a randomly drawn sample‐split an EFA was conducted on half of the sample, while a CFA was performed on the other half. The results of EFA and CFA revealed that a 4‐factor bifactor model fitted the data best. Except for item 18, which was assigned to the first factor (emotional support), the item‐factor assignments were consistent with the original structure. The goodness‐of‐fit statistics indicated a good model fit. The SS‐TSES‐G demonstrated good to excellent psychometric properties, allowing for reliable measurements of teachers' self‐efficacy in relation to individual students in a German teacher population.
Favorable seizure and developmental outcomes without preoperative intracranial electroencephalography in pediatric patients following epilepsy surgery: A single epilepsy center retrospective study
Authors: Okumura Taro , Usui Naotaka , Kondo Akihiko , Ogawa Hiroshi , Hashiguchi Mitsuru , Kuromi Yosuke , Yamaguchi Tokito , Otani Hideyuki , Imai Katsumi , Ishizaki Tomotaka , Tanei Takafumi , Maesawa Satoshi , Saito Ryuta
Published: December 2024

Objective

At our institute, most pediatric patients undergo epilepsy surgery following a thorough presurgical evaluation without intracranial electroencephalography (EEG). We conducted an initial validation of our noninvasive presurgical strategy by assessing the seizure and developmental outcomes of 135 children.

Methods

All 135 pediatric patients were <15 years old, had undergone curative surgery, and were followed for at least 2 years postoperatively. Presurgical evaluations and postoperative seizure and developmental outcomes were investigated. Thorough noninvasive evaluation included 3‐T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG‐PET) in all patients. Intracranial EEG was mainly indicated for patients whose MRIs were negative or subtle. We defined Engel class I as favorable and Engel classes II–IV as unfavorable seizure outcomes. Intelligence quotient (IQ) and developmental quotient (DQ) before and 2 years after surgery were used to assess developmental/neuropsychological outcomes.

Results

MRI was positive in 130 of 135 patients (96.3%), including 39 of 40 with focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) type II and 30 of 33 with FCD type I. FDG‐PET revealed concordant localizing findings in 119 of 132 patients (90.2%). Ictal single photon emission computed tomography provided concordant localizing information in 85 of 91 patients (93.4%). Intracranial EEG was performed in only 10 of 135 patients (7.4%). Ninety‐seven of 135 patients (71.9%) were seizure‐free 2 years after surgery. The final seizure‐free rate was 99 of 135 (73.3%). Temporal lobe surgery predicted a favorable seizure outcome by multivariate analysis, whereas FCD type I and preoperative IQ/DQ < 70 predicted an unfavorable outcome. The mean IQ change was +1.3 points, and the mean DQ change was +1.0 points. Mean DQ significantly improved following extratemporal surgery (multivariate regression, p < .05), and mean DQ significantly decreased in patients with epileptic spasms (multivariate regression, p < .01).

Significance

Thorough noninvasive presurgical evaluation enables detection of subtle MRI lesions and curative epilepsy surgery without intracranial EEG in most patients, including those with FCD type II and type I, and leads to favorable seizure and developmental/neuropsychological outcomes.
Increasing recombinant protein production in E. coli via FACS‐based selection of N‐terminal coding DNA libraries
Authors: Herynek Štěpán , Svoboda Jakub , Huličiak Maroš , Peleg Yoav , Škultétyová Ľubica , Mikulecký Pavel , Schneider Bohdan
Published: December 2024

Here, we present a previously undescribed approach to modify N‐terminal sequences of recombinant proteins to increase their production yield in Escherichia coli. Prior research has demonstrated that the nucleotides immediately following the start codon can significantly influence protein expression. However, the impact of these sequences is construct‐specific and is not universally applicable to all proteins. Most of the previous research has been limited to selecting from a few rationally designed sequences. In contrast, we used a directed evolution‐based methodology, screening large numbers of diversified sequences derived from DNA libraries coding for the N‐termini of investigated proteins. To facilitate the identification of cells with increased expression of the target construct, we cloned a GFP gene at the C‐terminus of the expressed genes and used fluorescent activated cell sorting (FACS) to separate cells based on their fluorescence. By following this systematic workflow, we successfully elevated the yield of soluble recombinant proteins of multiple constructs up to over 30‐fold.
Overfishing of Threatened Bycatch Species in a Marine Protected Area: The Elasmobranchs of Banc d'Arguin, Mauritania
Authors: Lemrabott Sidi Yahya Cheikhna , van Leeuwen Anieke , Leurs Guido , El‐Hacen El‐Hacen Mohamed , Piersma Theunis , Sall Amadou Abdarahmane , Sidina Ebaye , Yarba Lemhaba , Olff Han
Published: December 2024

Elasmobranch (rays and sharks) populations are vulnerable to overexploitation due to their slow growth, late maturity, and low fecundity. Industrial fishery impacts on sharks and rays are known, whereas impacts of artisanal fisheries are less understood. We quantified catches of sharks and rays in artisanal fisheries at the Parc National du Banc d'Arguin (Banc d'Arguin), Mauritania (West Africa) during 1998–2020, a period when fishing effort increased around 2006, catches increased, but catch‐per‐unit‐effort declined substantially. Shark nets and meagre fixed gill nets were used to catch elasmobranchs, with catches comprising over 60% of elasmobranch species. Therefore, elasmobranchs were not bycatch, but rather, the target of fisheries. Of 33 elasmobranch species captured, 94% of shark species and 76% of ray species are threatened with extinction. We recommend that management approaches should focus on fishing locations with the highest occurrence of threatened elasmobranch species in catches, through new regulations on fishing gear types and discouragement of trade in elasmobranch products from Banc d'Arguin.
Sulforaphane Induces Transient Reactive Oxygen Species‐Mediated DNA Damage in HeLa Cells
Authors: Kobayashi Sakine , Nishiba Seiya , Sato Chinatsu , Toriumi Kazuya , Someya Yuduki , Adachi Noritaka , Takeda Shigeki , Kurosawa Aya
Published: December 2024

Sulforaphane (SFN), an isothiocyanate found in plants of the Brassicaceae family, possesses antioxidant, apoptosis‐inducing, and radiosensitizing effects. As one of the mechanisms of cytotoxicity by SFN, SFN has been suggested to be involved in the induction of DNA damage and inhibition of DNA repair. Recently, we reported on the potency of SFN in inducing single‐ended double‐strand breaks (DSBs) that are caused by the collision of replication forks with single‐strand breaks (SSBs). However, the mechanism of SSB accumulation by SFN remains unclear. In this study, we examined the effect of SFN on SSB‐inducing factors in HeLa cells. Although the inhibitory effect of SFN on DNA topoisomerase I was not observed, we found that the reduced form of glutathione (GSH; an antioxidant) level was decreased in an SFN concentration‐dependent manner. Furthermore, the addition of ascorbic acid partially increased the viability of SFN‐treated HeLa cells. We subsequently observed that poly(ADP‐ribose) accumulated in SFN‐treated HeLa cells, which occurs during early SSB repair. Collectively, these findings suggest that SFN may transiently induce SSBs via reactive oxygen species in HeLa cells.
A Reduced Order Model for Sea Water Intrusion Simulation Using Proper Orthogonal Decomposition
Authors: Geranmehr Mohammadali , Bau Domenico , Mayer Alex S. , Yu Weijiang
Published: December 2024

Sea water intrusion (SWI) simulators are essential tools to assist the sustainable management of coastal aquifers. These simulators require the solution of coupled variable‐density partial differential equations (PDEs), which reproduce the processes of groundwater flow and dissolved salt transport. The solution of these PDEs is typically addressed numerically with the use of density‐dependent flow simulators, which are computationally intensive in most practical applications. To this end, model surrogates are generally developed as substitutes for full‐scale aquifer models to trade off accuracy in exchange for computational efficiency. Surrogates represent an attractive option to support groundwater management situations in which fast simulators are required to evaluate large sets of alternative pumping strategies. Reduced‐order models, a sub‐category of surrogate models, are based on the original model equations and may provide quite accurate results at a small fraction of computational cost. In this study, a variable‐density flow reduced‐order model based on proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) and utilizing a fully coupled flow and solute‐transport model is implemented with a finite‐difference (FD) approach for simulating SWI in coastal aquifers. The accuracy and computational efficiency of the FD‐POD approach for both homogeneous and—more realistic—heterogeneous systems are investigated using test cases based on the classic Henry's problem (Henry 1964). The findings demonstrate that the combined FD‐POD approach is effective in terms of both accuracy and computational gain and can accommodate the output of the most popular variable‐density flow models, such as those from USGS's MODFLOW family.
Steatotic liver index: An interpretable predictor of steatotic liver disease using machine learning with an enhanced shrinkage method
Authors: Okada Akira , Oba Koji , Kimura Takeshi , Hagiwara Yasuhiro , Ono Sachiko , Kurakawa Kayo Ikeda , Michihata Nobuaki , Yamauchi Toshimasa , Nangaku Masaomi , Matsuyama Yutaka , Kadowaki Takashi , Yamaguchi Satoko
Published: December 2024

Aim

While the Fatty Liver Index (FLI) has been the most prominent among interpretable predictors for steatotic liver disease (SLD), we aimed to prepare a novel diagnostic/prognostic index better than FLI for SLD using a non‐black‐box and modified parsimonious machine learning method.

Methods

We included individuals who participated in an annual health checkup in Tokyo, Japan, between January 2008 and December 2018. In the training set (randomly selected 80% of the sample), we developed a novel interpretable model, Steatotic Liver Index (SLI), using a modified method of least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression focusing on parsimony and interpretability using as few variables as FLI, and confirming its superiority to FLI using the test set (the remaining 20%). The predictive performance of the constructed index was assessed for the diagnosis, development, and remission of SLD.

Results

Among ultrasound data of 92 968 participants at the first health checkup, 20 380 (21.9%) had SLD. Using a modified method of least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression, SLI was constructed with four variables: body mass index, waist circumference, alanine aminotransferase, and triglycerides. The C‐statistic of SLI for SLD diagnosis was superior to that of FLI (0.909 vs. 0.892, p < 0.001). In participants without SLD, SLI was more accurate than FLI in predicting SLD development, whereas among those with SLD, SLI showed better accuracy in predicting SLD remission compared with FLI.

Conclusions

We developed SLI, a novel interpretable and parsimonious index for diagnosing SLD, which demonstrates superior predictive capability compared with FLI. Further studies are necessary to validate the diagnostic ability outside Japan.
Linoleic Acid Enhances Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells Autophagy Caused by Calcium Oxalate Monohydrate Crystals
Authors: Ma Weiming , Wei Wanqing , Dong Yang , Zhao Yan , Xia Tian , Wang Xitao , Han Conghui
Published: December 2024

High intake of dietary linoleic acid may increase the incidence of many diseases. The aim of this research is to examine the impact of linoleic acid on the damage caused by calcium oxalate kidney stones on renal tubular epithelial cells. Calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) crystals were prepared and used to treat HK‐2 cells, which were further treated with different concentrations of linoleic acid in vitro. Also, a small‐interfering RNA lentiviral vector of milk fat globule epidermal growth factor 8 (MFGE8) was constructed and transfected into HK‐2 cells. The cell viability, level of intracellular ROS and autophagy were tested. In vivo experiments were also carried out with a rat model for renal urolithiasis treated with linoleic acid. The results indicated that COM crystals promoted crystal deposition and apoptosis, increased levels of intracellular Ca2+ and ROS levels and inhibited the proliferation of HK‐2 cells. Linoleic acid exacerbated the damage of COM crystal‐treated HK‐2 cells and renal tubular epithelial cells of the rat model for renal urolithiasis, which can be partially reversed by downregulation of MFGE8. These results collectively suggest that linoleic acid might enhance the damage of renal tubular epithelial cells caused by COM crystals.
Polymer‐Based Toothpastes and Their Ability in Control Tooth Extrinsic Stain
Authors: Garcia Raissa Manoel , Rigo Letícia Maria Balbino , Lima Leonardo Custódio , Sakae Leticia Oba , Cavalli Vanessa , Borges Alessandra Buhler , Scaramucci Taís
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To synthesize experimental toothpastes (ETs) containing four different polymers (sodium linear polyphosphate [LPP]; chitosan [CHI]; sodium hexametaphosphate [HMP]; and sodium pyrophosphate [PP]) and test their ability in preventing and removing tooth extrinsic stain.

Methods

The tooth specimens were randomly assigned into six groups (n = 10): control (artificial saliva), regular toothpaste (RT—no whitening claim), ET 5% LPP, ET 0.5% CHI, ET 5% HMP, and ET 5% PP. Each cycle consisted of chlorhexidine (2 min), staining broth (30 min), artificial saliva (30 min), brushing (45 strokes), and artificial saliva (30 min). Color parameters (L*, a*, and b*) were assessed at baseline and after 21 cycles. ΔEab, ΔE00, ΔWID, ΔL, Δa, and Δb were analyzed through ANOVA and Tukey test, at a 5% significance level.

Results

ET 5% PP showed lower ΔEab and ΔE00 than the control and RT (p < 0.01). For ΔWID, PP showed a higher value. For ΔL (p = 0.265) and Δb (p = 0.119), there were no significant differences among the groups. For Δa (p = 0.01), ET 5% PP showed a difference with the control.

Conclusions

The ETs showed a similar effect in preventing and removing tooth extrinsic stains. However, the sodium pyrophosphate‐containing toothpaste was the only one with a superior effect in comparison with RT or brushing without toothpaste.

Clinical Significance

The use of toothpastes for managing tooth extrinsic stains is a common approach in dentistry. In addition to the abrasives, their effect can be further enhanced by the presence of some polymers. Toothpastes containing sodium pyrophosphate demonstrated a superior ability to control tooth extrinsic stains.
The silver king in the Magic City: Observation of Atlantic tarpon Megalops atlanticus aggregation off Miami, Florida
Authors: Saltzman Julia , Hawkins Cliff , Macdonald Catherine C.
Published: December 2024

Due to the logistical and financial challenges in studying migratory marine species, there is relatively limited knowledge of the reproductive biology, behavior, and habitat use of many ecologically important marine megafauna species, including the Atlantic tarpon Megalops atlanticus. Here, we present a novel observation using consumer‐grade aerial drones to observe, quantify the scale of, and classify behaviors within a previously unreported tarpon aggregation (N = 182) over the course of a 2‐day fish aggregation event. After the event, we analysed and compared observed behaviors (e.g., cruising and clustering) with those of other fish species with well‐documented reproductive behaviors, revealing behaviors potentially consistent with courtship, leading us to believe this to be a possible spawning aggregation or aggregation of reproductive/migratory significance. This aggregation occurred in highly altered and urbanized habitat off the coast of South Florida, during the winter, and outside of tarpon's previously reported spring and summer spawning season. Although few studies to date have used drones to monitor teleosts, this study reinforces their potential value as a tool for monitoring fish populations, behavior, and movement.
Can We Improve Geriatrics Recruitment? An Analysis of U.S. Geriatrics Fellowship Programs on X
Authors: Ruiz Eloy F. , Ponce Oscar J. , Fernandez Helen M.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic accelerated the shift from in‐person to virtual recruitment, prompting residency and fellowship programs to adopt innovative strategies, such as leveraging social media platforms to attract applicants and enhance visibility. Our aim was to identify and describe the presence of U.S. geriatric medicine fellowship programs on X.

Methods

We identified all U.S. geriatric medicine fellowship programs using FREIDA, and then located their X accounts through a stepwise process. Data were collected on account creation, number of followers, posts, and activity level, with an analysis of the last 100 posts from the most active accounts. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.

Results

Among the 147 geriatric medicine fellowship programs identified, 38 (25.9%) had an X account. The majority of accounts were created after the start of the pandemic, reflecting likely the adaptation to virtual recruitment processes. Only a few accounts generated the majority of posts and followers. The accounts primarily posted or reposted educational content, research highlights, and promotional material.

Conclusion

The use of X by geriatric medicine programs is still significantly underutilized, with only one‐fourth of them having an account. Half of the accounts were created after the COVID‐19 pandemic began. Programs should focus on building a robust social media presence to increase their visibility, especially as virtual interviews have become a permanent part of recruitment.
Proactive Management of Lactation in the Birth Hospital to Ensure Long‐Term Milk Production and Sustainable Breastfeeding
Authors: Spatz Diane L. , Álvarez Rodríguez Salomé , Benjilany Sarah , Finderle Barbara , von Gartzen Aleyd , Yates Ann , Brumley Jessica
Published: December 2024

Individuals who are at risk of not achieving a full milk supply are often overlooked in scientific literature. There is available guidance to help establish an adequate milk supply for healthy individuals experiencing a physiologic labor and birth, and there are robust recommendations for the lactating parents of small, sick, and preterm newborns to ensure that these newborns can receive human milk. Missing from the literature are clinical practice guidelines that address the preexisting health, pregnancy, birth, or newborn‐related risk factors for suboptimal lactation. This can include risk factors that impact secretory activation or newborns who may not attach and suckle effectively to provide the stimulation and removal necessary to reach full milk volume. Secretory activation can only occur after the birth of the newborn and the placenta, with milk volume being established during the first weeks of breastfeeding. Recognizing this gap, over the past 2 years, an international group of midwives led by a doctoral nurse scientist in lactation conducted an extensive literature review to identify the most significant risk factors that can disrupt normal physiologic lactation. Our group sought to establish proactive lactation management strategies to ensure long‐term milk production. We developed an evidence‐based perinatal operational breastfeeding plan alongside clinical pathways to guide health care professionals in assessment, care, and necessary education for families who present with risk. Our goal is for midwives and other health care professionals to integrate the perinatal operational breastfeeding plan into practice and use these pathways to ensure (1) timely and effective secretory activation, (2) building a milk supply as robust as feasible for personal situations and conditions, (3) more newborns receiving more human milk and (4) more families achieving their personal breastfeeding goals.
Earlier diagnosis of small intestine neuroendocrine tumours (SI‐NETs) through transformation of the South Wales NET service
Authors: Gould Harriet L. , Amin Kapish , Karategos Thanos , Abbas Sarah , Olive Susannah , Sivananthan Mathoorika , Rela Ayeesha , Reed Harriet , Powell Catherine , Navaratnam Janu , Ellis‐Owen Rwth , Fielding Patrick , Mondal Dipanjali , Kihara Steve , Williams Gethin , Morgan Carys , Witczak Justyna , Cornish Julie , Gwynne Sarah , Horwood James , Torkington Jared , Hargest Rachel , Christian Adam , Davies Michael , Ansell James , Khan Mohid S.
Published: December 2024

Small intestine neuroendocrine tumours (SI‐NETs) are often diagnosed late with a UK median of 3 years and high misdiagnosis rates. Previous studies, largely based on patient surveys, offer little data on improving diagnosis. In 2017, the South Wales NET service underwent a nationally commissioned, systematic transformation, aiming to improve diagnosis through the development of a gastroenterology and surgical referral network, and education of these specialities. This study aims to assess the impact of the transformation on SI‐NET diagnosis times and misdiagnosis rates using accurate hospital data, along with the diagnostic routes and investigations used for SI‐NETs. We retrospectively analysed the hospital records of 224 patients diagnosed with SI‐NETs referred to the South Wales NET service (110 pre‐transformation and 114 post‐transformation). Following the service transformation, there was a significant reduction in diagnosis times from a median of 12.5–5.2 months (p < .05), at an earlier stage (cases with metastases reduced from 77% to 62%), and reduced misdiagnosis rates from 40% to 25%. Colonoscopy, used to investigate the presenting gastrointestinal symptoms in 42% of patients prior to diagnosis, identified an abnormality in only 28%, compared with 97% with computed tomography (CT) scans. A gastroenterology and surgical referral network across hospitals may improve diagnosis in SI‐NETs, leading to earlier detection and reducing misdiagnosis rates. Further exploration of GP interactions is needed. Caution is needed following negative colonoscopy in patients with persistent lower gastrointestinal symptoms as this could lead to missed SI‐NET diagnosis if further abdominal imaging is not undertaken.
Central regulation of drinking water in divergently selected high‐water‐efficient young broiler chickens: A minireview
Authors: Roach Brooklee , Greene Elizabeth S. , Dridi Sami
Published: December 2024

Poultry production is confronting real challenges, including a lofty projected high demand for animal proteins to feed the future, and the need to adapt to planetary boundaries (global warming) with limited natural resources (land, energy, water). Among the most challenging stressors to poultry production sustainability are heat stress (HS) and water uncertainty, that need extensive fundamental and applied research to identify effective strategies. In that regard, our group has recently developed a high‐water‐efficient broiler (meat‐type) chicken line using water conversion ratio (WCR) as a phenotypic trait and defined the hypothalamic molecular mechanisms controlling drinking water under heat stress conditions. In response to the invitation from the Organizing Committee of the 13th International Symposium on Avian Endocrinology (ISAE 2024), the present review summarizes these data and closes the chapter by asking questions for future investigations. Data showed that HS exposure increased core body temperature (CBT) of both lines, with higher degree in HWE than in LWE counterparts. Despite this increase in CBT, HWE line drank less water but had superior performance with better feed conversion ratio (FCR) and WCR than LWE line. Molecular analyses showed that hypothalamic drinking‐related neuropeptides (arginine vasopressin system, aquaporin system, renin, and angiotensin system) are affected in line‐ and/or environmental‐dependent manner. Together, our research outcome indicates that the divergent selection for water efficiency could be an effective strategy to preserve water while maintaining optimal growth performance and could be applied to other poultry species and livestock.
Achilles tenocytes from diabetic and non diabetic donors exposed to hyperglycemia respond differentially to inflammatory stimuli and stretch
Authors: Fleischmann Nils , Hofmann Sarah , Gögele Clemens , Frank Eva , Werner Christian , Kokozidou Maria , Hoffmann Bernd , Konrad Jens , Schulze‐Tanzil Gundula
Published: December 2024

Diabetes mellitus type 2 (DMT2) promotes Achilles tendon (AS) degeneration and exercise could modulate features of DMT2. Hence, this study investigated whether tenocytes of non DMT2 and DMT2 rats respond differently to normo‐ (NG) and hyperglycemic (HG) conditions in the presence of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α or cyclic stretch. AS tenocytes, isolated from DMT2 (fa/fa) or non DMT2 (lean, fa/+) adult Zucker Diabetic Fatty (ZDF) rats, were treated with 10 ng/mL TNFα either under NG or HG conditions (1 g/L vs. 4.5 g/L glucose) and were exposed to cyclic stretch (14%, 0.3 Hz, 48 h). Tenocyte survival, metabolic activity, gene and/or protein expression of tendon extracellular matrix component collagen type 1, alpha smooth muscle actin (αSMA, Acta2), the stress defense enzyme heme oxygenase‐1 (Hmox1) as well as suppressors of cytokine signaling (Socs)1 and Socs3 were analyzed. Tenocyte vitality remained high, but metabolic activity was slightly impaired by HG conditions irrespectively of cell origin. Collagen type 1 alpha protein and gene expression was suppressed by TNFα, but only in cells of non DMT2 animals in NG culture medium. Higher amounts of αSMA were visualized in tendons/tenocytes of diabetic rats or those exposed to TNFα. Cyclic stretch caused cell alignment in zero stretch direction. In addition, it led to a significant reduction of cell perimeters, particularly in cells of DMT2 donor rats under HG conditions. Hmox1, Socs1 and Socs3 were induced by HG, but only in tenocytes of diabetic rats (4 h). Stretch induced significantly Hmox1 transcriptional activity under NG conditions and Socs3 under HG conditions especially in tenocytes of DMT2 rats. The response of tenocytes to TNFα and cyclic stretch depends on glucose supply and origin suggesting their irreversible impairment by DMT2.
Thoracic and abdominal diagnostic imaging findings in dogs diagnosed with immune‐mediated polyarthritis: 71 cases (2011‐2023)
Authors: Atkinson L. , Schiborra F. , O'Connell E. , Barton J. , Humphreys W.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To describe thoracic and abdominal imaging findings in dogs with immune‐mediated polyarthritis and to evaluate their impact on the decision to commence immunosuppressive therapy.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective case series describing imaging findings in dogs with immune‐mediated polyarthritis across modalities, including thoracic radiographs, abdominal ultrasound, computed tomography, and where available, echocardiography. Additionally, two internal medicine clinicians reviewed the signalment, clinical signs, clinicopathological findings and diagnostic imaging results on two separate occasions, reaching a consensus for each dog on whether immunosuppression would be their treatment of choice or whether their recommendations would be altered by the results of diagnostic imaging.

Results

Seventy‐one dogs met the inclusion criteria. Abnormal diagnostic imaging findings were identified in 25.4% (18/71) of dogs. Thoracic radiography did not identify significant imaging findings in any of the dogs. Lymphadenomegaly was the most commonly reported finding on computed tomography (32/40) and abdominal ultrasound (13/34). Neoplasia was identified in three dogs (3/71). Four (4/13) dogs had echocardiography findings consistent with endocarditis. Immunosuppression without performing diagnostic imaging would have been considered in 41 of 71 (57.7%) dogs, based on the signalment, presenting signs, results of physical examination and clinicopathological testing. Of these, 10 dogs (24.3%) had diagnostic imaging findings suggestive of an underlying trigger, therefore changing the clinician's decision to proceed with immunosuppression.

Clinical Significance

Abdominal imaging and echocardiography should be prioritised over thoracic radiography, in dogs with immune‐mediated polyarthritis. Signalment, presenting complaint, physical examination findings and clinicopathological results are not reliable predictors of abnormal diagnostic imaging findings in dogs with immune‐mediated polyarthritis.
Genetic improvement of low‐lignin poplars: a new strategy based on molecular recognition, chemical reactions and empirical breeding
Authors: Duan Huaichuan , Li Siyao , Wang Xin , Ge Yutong , Song Yuting , Hu Dongling , Liu Wei , Hu Jianping , Shi Hubing
Published: December 2024

As an important source of pollution in the papermaking process, the presence of lignin in poplar can seriously affect the quality and process of pulping. During lignin synthesis, Caffeoyl‐CoA‐O methyltransferase (CCoAOMT), as a specialized catalytic transferase, can effectively regulate the methylation of caffeoyl‐coenzyme A (CCoA) to feruloyl‐coenzyme A. Targeting CCoAOMT, this study investigated the substrate recognition mechanism and the possible reaction mechanism, the key residues of lignin binding were mutated and the lignin content was validated by deep convolutional neural‐network model based on genome‐wide prediction (DCNGP). The molecular mechanics results indicate that the binding of S‐adenosyl methionine (SAM) and CCoA is sequential, with SAM first binding and inducing inward constriction of the CCoAOMT; then CCoA binds to the pocket, and this process closes the outer channel, preventing contamination by impurities and ensuring that the reaction proceeds. Next, the key residues in the recognition process of SAM (F69 and D91) and CCoA (I40, N170, Y188 and D218) were analyzed, and we identified that K146 as a base catalyst is important for inducing the methylation reaction. Immediately after that, the possible methylation reaction mechanism was deduced by the combination of Restrained Electrostatic Potential (RESP) and Independent Gradient Model (IGM) analysis, focusing on the catalytic center electron cloud density and RESP charge distribution. Finally, the DCNGP results verified that the designed mutant groups were all able to effectively reduce the lignin content and increase the S‐lignin content/ G‐lignin content ratio, which was beneficial for the subsequent lignin removal. Multifaceted consideration of factors that reduce lignin content and combined deep learning to screen for favorable mutations in target traits provides new ideas for targeted breeding of low‐lignin poplars.
L‐DOPA promotes cadmium tolerance and modulates iron deficiency genes in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Chang Ching‐Yuan , Hsieh En‐Jung , Wang Shan‐Li , Grillet Louis
Published: December 2024

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic element and a widespread health hazard. Preventing its entry into crops is an outstanding issue. 3,4‐Dihydroxy‐L‐phenylalanine (L‐DOPA) is a non‐proteinogenic amino acid that is secreted by a few legume plants and affects neighboring plants. Exogenous L‐DOPA triggers iron (Fe) uptake by roots of Arabidopsis thaliana Columbia‐0 ecotype through transcriptional activation of Fe deficiency genes, including IRONMANs (IMAs), which encode peptides regulating Fe homeostasis. Ectopic expression of IRONMAN1 was reported to enhance Cd tolerance in Arabidopsis. We therefore hypothesized that L‐DOPA could also enhance Cd tolerance by stimulating the expression of IMAs. In the present study, the elemental profile and the expression of key genes of plants exposed to a combination of Cd and L‐DOPA were studied. The results show that exogenous L‐DOPA considerably enhances the Cd tolerance of Arabidopsis thaliana, abolishing the Cd‐induced chlorosis and necrosis, and reducing Cd accumulation. This increased tolerance is not due to an enhanced Fe uptake and is not mediated by IMAs. Instead, L‐DOPA triggered a peculiar transcriptional program that led to an increased expression of a branch of the Fe deficiency pathway comprising the transcription factor bHLH39 but, surprisingly, not its target genes FRO2 and IRT1. The NICOTIANAMINE SYNTHASE 4 (NAS4) gene, which mediates Cd tolerance, was highly and specifically upregulated by the application of L‐DOPA and Cd combined. These results suggest that Fe homeostasis is controlled by small molecules through currently unknown mechanisms that could be leveraged to manipulate Fe and Cd accumulation in plants.
Resilient gas dependency–based planning of electricity distribution systems considering energy storage systems
Authors: Ghasemi Mostafa , Gilani Mohammad Amin , Amirioun Mohammad Hassan
Published: December 2024

This article presents a planning framework to improve the weather‐related resilience of natural gas–dependent electricity distribution systems. The problem is formulated as a two‐stage stochastic mixed integer linear programing model. In the first stage, the measures for distribution line hardening, gas‐fired distributed generation (DG) placement, electrical energy storage resource allocation, and tie‐switch placement are determined. The second stage minimizes the electricity distribution system load shedding in realized hurricanes to achieve a compromise between operational benefits and investment costs when the dependence of electricity distribution system on the natural gas exists. The proposed stochastic model considers random failures of electricity distribution system lines and random errors in forecasting the load demand. The Monte Carlo simulation is employed to generate multiple scenarios for defining the uncertainties of electricity distribution system. For the sake of simplicity, weather‐related outages of natural gas pipelines are considered deterministic. The nonlinear natural gas constraints are linearized and incorporated into the stochastic optimization model. The proposed framework was successfully implemented on an interconnected energy system composed of a 33‐bus electricity distribution system and a 14‐node natural gas distribution network. Numerical results of the defined case studies and a devised comparative study validate the effectiveness of the proposed framework as well.
Cultural Policy and the Sustainable Development of 12-Episode Web Series in China: Monetization, Copyright, and Global Expansion
Authors: Zhang Shangmingzhu , Hashim Hasrul , Hassim Nurzihan Binti
Published: December 2024

China’s web series market has rapidly transformed entertainment, offering interactive experiences distinct from traditional film and television. Despite its rapid growth, the industry faces key challenges in monetization, copyright protection, and international distribution. This study explores how current policies shape the sustainable development of Chinese web series, supporting growth while imposing constraints. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with creators and audiences and analyzed using content analysis. A novel coding approach was used, combining traditional manual methods with advanced large language model (LLM) assistance to uncover detailed insights. Applying Tony Bennett’s cultural policy theory (2001), the findings reveal that although government policies have supported market expansion, they also pose challenges—particularly for independent creators—due to limited monetization channels, insufficient copyright protection, and restrictive regulations on content. Audience feedback shows a strong willingness to pay for high-quality web series, yet free and pirated content options continue to undermine paid models. To navigate these complexities, the study recommends policy reforms that encourage market diversity, stronger copyright protection through digital technologies, and greater support for cross-cultural collaborations to expand global reach. Striking a balance between regulation and creative freedom is crucial for driving the sustainable growth of China’s web series industry.
Discovery of two new tydeoid mite species (Acariformes: Prostigmata) on stone fruit trees in Türkiye
Authors: Altunç Yunus Emre , Akyazi Rana , Laniecka Izabella , Ueckermann Edward A. , Kaźmierski Andrzej
Published: December 2024

Two new mite species, Brachytydeus turkiyensis sp. nov. Laniecka et Akyazı (Tydeinae) and Ueckermanniella pruni sp. nov. Kaźmierski et Altunç (Pronematinae) are described from Türkiye. The former was found on Prunus domestica L., whereas the latter on P. avium L., P. domestica L. and Cornus mas L. One specimen of B. turkiyensis shows an interesting example of morphological anomaly (doubled dorsal seta). The study adds to the knowledge of tydeoid mite fauna of Türkiye.
Correlation analysis of the impact of
Clonorchis sinensis
juvenile on gut microbiota and transcriptome in mice
Authors: Deng Xueling , Li Shitao , Wu Yuhong , Yao Jiali , Hou Wei , Zheng Jiangyao , Liang Boying , Liang Xiaole , Hu Qiping , Wu Zhanshuai , Tang Zeli
Published: December 2024

Clonorchiasis
remains a non-negligible global zoonosis, imposing serious socio-economic burdens in endemic regions. The interplay between gut microbiota and the host transcriptome is crucial for maintaining health; however, the impact of
Clonorchiasis sinensis
juvenile infection on these factors is still poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate their relationship and potential pathogenic mechanisms. The BALB/c mouse model of early infection with
C. sinensis
juvenile was constructed. Pathological analyses revealed that
C. sinensis
juvenile triggered liver inflammation, promoted intestinal villi growth, and augmented goblet cell numbers in the ileum. Additionally, the infection altered the diversity and structure of gut microbiota, particularly affecting beneficial bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids, such as
Lactobacillus
and
Muribaculaceae
, and disrupted the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. Gut transcriptome analysis demonstrated an increase in the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) as infection progressed. Enriched Gene Ontology items highlighted immune and detoxification-related processes, including immunoglobulin production and xenobiotic metabolic processes. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis further indicated involvement in circadian rhythm, as well as various detoxification and metabolic-related pathways (e.g., glutathione metabolism and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis). Prominent DEGs associated with these pathways included Igkv12-41, Mcpt2, Arntl, Npas2, Cry1, and Gsta1. Correlation analysis additionally identified
Bacteroides_sartorii
as a potential key regulator in the interaction between gut microbiota and transcriptome. This study sheds light on the alterations in gut microbiota and transcriptome in mice following
C. sinensis
juvenile infection, as well as their correlation, laying a foundation for a better understanding of their interaction during infection.

IMPORTANCE

This study highlighted the impact of
C. sinensis
juvenile infection on the gut microbiota and transcriptome of BALB/c mice. It induced liver inflammation, promoted intestinal villi growth, and altered goblet cell numbers. The infection also disrupted the diversity and structure of gut microbiota, particularly affecting beneficial bacteria. Transcriptome analysis revealed increased expression of genes related to immune response and detoxification processes. Important pathways affected included circadian rhythm, glutathione metabolism, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis. Notable genes implicated included Igkv12-41, Mcpt2, Arntl, Npas2, Cry1, and Gsta1.
Bacteroides_sartorii
emerged as a potential key regulator in this interaction.