bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strawberry dietary intervention influences diversity and increases abundances of SCFA-producing bacteria in healthy elderly people
Authors: Meiners Franziska , Kreikemeyer Bernd , Newels Patrick , Zude Ingmar , Walter Michael , Hartmann Alexander , Palmer Daniel , Fuellen Georg , Barrantes Israel
Published: January 2025

The gut microbiome is amenable to dietary interventions, and polyphenol-rich diets have been shown to enhance abundances of bacteria associated with short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production. We examined the effects of a strawberry-based intervention on the gut microbiome of 69 healthy elderly German adults. Participants in five groups consumed varying amounts of strawberries, freeze-dried strawberries, and capers in olive oil over 10 weeks as part of a randomized controlled trial. 16S rRNA sequencing was used to analyze differences in microbial composition, diversity, phenotypes, differential abundance, and functional pathways. The intervention group featuring the highest amounts of fresh and freeze-dried strawberries without capers in olive oil (group 4) showed changes in gut microbial diversity and differential abundance that could be linked to improved health. Beta diversity, based on weighted UniFrac distances, increased significantly (
P
= 0.0035), potentially pathogenic bacteria decreased (
P
= 0.04), and abundances of SCFA-producing genera
Faecalibacterium
and
Prevotella
increased significantly. Other findings included a significant reduction of
CAG-352
,
Preveotellaceae_NK3B31-group
, and
Eubacterium coprostanoligenes
(group 2), and a trend of lowered Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio (
P
= 0.067) and a reduction in
Ruminococcaceae
(group 3). Our findings suggest that a dietary intervention based on strawberries can positively alter the gut microbiota of healthy elderly people as seen in an enrichment of SCFA-producing genera, increased diversity, and a reduction in potentially pathogenic bacteria.

IMPORTANCE

Aging is often associated with changes in the gut microbiome, including a decline in beneficial bacteria and an increase in potentially pathogenic species. Addressing these changes through lifestyle interventions is of significant interest. Our study demonstrates that a 10-week dietary intervention with strawberries can beneficially modulate gut microbial composition and diversity in healthy elderly individuals. Notably, the group consuming the highest amount of strawberries (without capers in olive oil) initially had higher abundances of potentially pathogenic bacteria. Here, the intervention led to increased abundances of the beneficial genera
Faecalibacterium
and
Prevotella
, which are linked to health benefits including reduced inflammation and improved lipid metabolism. These findings suggest that strawberry consumption can positively influence gut microbial composition, thereby contributing to overall health and disease prevention in older adults.
Differential diversity and structure of autotrophs in agricultural soils of Qinghai Province
Authors: Zhou Lianyu , Ma Xuelan , Luo Qiaoyu , Qiao Feng , Xie Huichun , Wang Longrui , Sun Wenjuan , Liu Yu , Ma Yun
Published: January 2025

The biodiversity of CO
2
-assimilating bacterial communities is pivotal for carbon sequestration in agricultural systems. Changes in the diversity, structure, and activity of the soil chemolithoautotrophic bacteria were examined in four agricultural areas, Dulan (DL), Gonghe (GH), Huzhu (HZ), and Datong (DT) counties in Qinghai Province, where wheat, oilseed rape, and barley were planted. This process was performed using Illumina amplicon sequencing of the ribulose-1,5-bisphosphatecarboxylase/oxygenase (RubisCO) gene (
cbbL
Form I) and activity data. The diversity, community, and activity of soil autotrophic CO
2
-fixing bacteria differed significantly across soil sites, whereas
cbbL
-bearing bacterial diversity and activity were similar across different crop types. RubisCO activity in the HZ region was significantly greater than in the other three regions (
P
< 0.001). The overall relative abundance trend of the bacterial taxa was similar among the three crop samples. Moreover, 31, 27, 10, and 8 significant linear discriminant analysis effect sizes were identified in the four regions collected from HZ, DL, DT, and GH, respectively. No significant biomarkers were detected in any of the crop groups. Some soil properties had significant relationships with the autotrophic bacterial community composition.

IMPORTANCE

Agricultural soil plays important roles in carbon fixation during carbon capture and storage. Autotrophic bacteria that utilize inorganic compounds as electron donors for growth fix CO
2
photosynthetically or chemo-autotrophically in diverse ecosystems and affect soil organic carbon sequestration. Soil properties, agronomic management measures, and environmental factors can influence the community composition, abundance, and activity of CO
2
-assimilating bacteria. This study aims at evaluating the effects of different regions and crop types on the abundance, composition, and activity of CO
2
-fixing bacteria in agricultural soil.
A novel framework unveiling the importance of heterogeneous selection and drift on the community structure of symbiotic microbial indicator taxa across altitudinal gradients in amphibians
Authors: Zhou Jin , Liu Zhidong , Wang Sishuo , Li Jing , Zhang Lin , Liao Ziyan
Published: January 2025

Existing analytical frameworks for community assembly have a noticeable knowledge gap, lacking a comprehensive assessment of the relative contributions of individual or grouped microbial distinct sampling units (DSUs) and distinct taxonomic units (DTUs) to each mechanism. Here, we propose a comprehensive framework for identifying DTUs/DSUs that remarkably contribute to the various mechanisms sustaining microbial community structure. Amphibian symbiotic microbes along an altitudinal gradient from Sichuan Province, China, were employed to examine the proposed statistical framework. In different altitude groups, we found that heterogeneous selection governed the community structure of symbiotic microbes across DSUs, while stochastic processes tended to increase with altitude. For DTUs at phylum and family levels, drift emerged as the dominant mechanism driving the community structure in the most symbiotic microbial taxa, while heterogeneous selection governs the most dominant or indicator taxa. Notably, the relative contribution of heterogeneous selection was significantly positively correlated with the relative abundance and niche breadth of taxa, and negatively correlated with drift. We also detected that community assembly processes remarkably regulate the structure of symbiotic microbial communities and their correlation with environmental variables. Altogether, our modeling framework is a robust and valuable tool that further enlarges our insight into microbiota community assembly.

IMPORTANCE

Distinguishing the drivers regulating microbial community assembly is essential in microbial ecology. We propose a novel modeling framework to partition the relative contributions of each individual or group of microbial DSUs and DTUs into different underpinning mechanisms. An empirical study on amphibian symbiotic microbes notably enlarges insight into community assembly patterns in the herpetological symbiotic ecosystem and demonstrates that the proposed statistical framework is an informative and sturdy tool to quantify microbial assembly processes at both levels of DSUs and DTUs. More importantly, our proposed modeling framework can provide in-depth insights into microbiota community assembly within the intricate tripartite host-environment-microbe relationship.
Respiratory insufficiency as a rare presentation in a child with vitamin D-dependent rickets type 1
Authors: Parmar Akif , Shah Nikhil , Khadse Savita , Ghildiyal Radha
Published: January 2025

Rickets in children usually present with skeletal manifestations. However, they can also rarely present with extraskeletal manifestations, one of them being respiratory insufficiency. We present an unusual case of a girl in early childhood with respiratory insufficiency, which turned out to be due to the underlying vitamin D-dependent rickets (VDDR). The girl was born to third-degree consanguineous parentage and had progressive skeletal deformities, acquired loss of motor milestones, recurrent lower respiratory tract infections and florid signs of rickets. She was hospitalised for respiratory insufficiency, which required prolonged oxygen supplementation. X-rays showed multiple fractures and florid rickets. Laboratory parameters revealed low serum calcium and phosphorus, high alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone and 25-OH vitamin D levels with a normal 1,25-OH2D level. Genetic testing confirmed autosomal recessive CYP27B1 mutation proving VDDR1A. She was started on calcitriol and calcium which led to her gradual improvement.
Determinants of knowledge of preconception care among healthcare providers in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tilahun Befkad Derese , Ayele Mulat , Alamaw Addis Wondmagegn , Kitaw Tegene Atamenta , Lake Eyob Shitie , Abate Biruk Beletew , Yilak Gizachew , Amena Nimona
Published: January 2025

Objective

To assess the determinants of knowledge of preconception care (PCC) among healthcare providers in Ethiopia.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data source

Comprehensive literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus and Health Internetwork Access to Research Initiative (HINARI) published until 20 March 2024.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Primary studies that reported the prevalence, determinants or associated factors were included.

Data extraction and analysis

Three authors extracted all the relevant data using a standardised Joanna Briggs Institute data extraction format. Meta-analysis was done using a random-effects model. A funnel plot and Egger’s test were done to assess publication bias, which was corrected by trim and fill analysis.

Result

Out of 102 studies, the final analysis included six studies involving 2758 healthcare providers. The pooled knowledge of PCC among healthcare providers in Ethiopia was determined to be 51.43% (Adjusted OR), with a 95% CI ranging from 41.21% to 61.65%. Several factors were identified as determinants of healthcare providers’ knowledge based on the pooled estimate. These factors include having an educational qualification above a BSc degree (OR=2.36, 95% CI 1.46, 3.08), the presence of guidelines in their institution (OR=2.07, 95% CI 1.37, 2.77), working in hospitals (OR=2.68, 95% CI 1.83, 3.53) and receiving training on PCC and related topics (OR=4.05, 95% CI 2.52, 5.59).

Conclusion

Healthcare professionals exhibited limited knowledge of PCC in Ethiopia. Key elements influencing their comprehension encompass advanced educational credentials beyond a BSc degree, adherence to institutional guidelines, employment in hospital settings and exposure to specialised training. The ORs linked to these factors highlight the substantial influence of education, institutional procedures, hospital roles and specific training in enhancing healthcare providers’ expertise. Enhancing awareness and understanding among healthcare practitioners through customised educational programmes, institutional structures and organised training efforts stands out as a crucial approach to improve healthcare services and results throughout Ethiopia.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024516077.
The heart rate on admission was associated with the mortality in elderly patients with hip fractures: a retrospective cohort study from a trauma centre in northwestern China
Authors: Zhang Wei-Song , Chen Shao-Hua , Yang Zhi , Zhang Bin-Fei
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the association between heart rate on admission and mortality in elderly patients with hip fractures.

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Setting

At a trauma centre in northwestern China.

Participants

Elderly patients with hip fractures.

Results

This cohort study included 2006 patients who met the study criteria. The mean heart rate at admission was 81.77±15.63 beats per minute. During follow-up, 189 patients died for all-cause reasons in 1 year. Age, coronary heart disease, cancer, dementia and time to operation were introduced in multivariate regression analysis. Multivariate logistic regression showed that heart rate was associated with mortality in geriatric patients with hip fracture (OR=1.01, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.02, p=0.0242). However, the linear association was unstable, and we found a nonlinear one. In the nonlinear association, the inflection point was 84 beats per minute. If below this threshold, each 1 beat per minute increase in heart rate was associated with a 4% increase in the risk of death (OR=1.04, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.06, p=0.0017). If greater than this threshold, the risk of death peaked and was not associated with the heart rate (OR=1.00, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.01, p=0.6691).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the heart rate was nonlinearly associated with 1-year mortality in geriatric patients with hip fractures. The low heart rate on admission was associated with low 1-year mortality. When the heart rate was over 84 beats per minute, the risk of death peaked, and there was no association with heart rate anymore.

Trial registration number

This study was registered on the website of the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR: ChiCTR2200057323).
Airway associated inflammation in post-transplant cystic fibrosis patients as a predictor of chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD)
Authors: Patel Tanvi , Bemiss Bradford , Panah Elnaz , Chaiprasit Thanchanok , McHenry Austin , Venkataraman Girish , Ananthanarayanan Vijayalakshmi
Published: January 2025

Aims

In cystic fibrosis lung transplant recipients (LTRs), graft dysfunction due to acute infections, rejection or chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) is difficult to distinguish. Characterisation of the airway inflammatory milieu could help detect and prevent graft dysfunction. We speculated that an eosinophil or neutrophil-rich milieu is associated with higher risk of CLAD.

Methods

A retrospective, single-centre observational study of cystic fibrosis LTRs between 2002 and 2021 was performed. Data from biopsy slides, pulmonary function testing and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid microbiology tests were collected. The primary outcome was bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) or death after transplant, with an 8-year follow-up period.

Results

40 patients were identified with an average age of 35.3 at first transplantation, including 5 redo lung transplants. Fungal infections were correlated with higher rejection scores (p<0.01) and survival status (p=0.027). Fungal and bacterial infection rates were reduced in later transplants (2014–2021) compared with earlier (2002–2014). Fungal infections were associated with significantly worsened outcomes (p≤0.001). Eosinophils in large airways was associated with worse BOS-free survival (p=0.03).

Conclusions

Subcategorisation of the inflammatory milieu (particularly noting eosinophils) in surveillance biopsies may help detect CLAD earlier and improve long-term outcomes in cystic fibrosis LTRs.
Preoperative frailty in oesophageal cancer: postoperative outcomes and overall survival – meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Zhao Bingyan , Wu Min , Bao Leilei , Zhang Si-Ai , Zhang Chunmei
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To assess the prevalence of preoperative frailty in patients with oesophageal cancer and its impact on postoperative outcomes and overall survival.

Methods

A comprehensive computer-based search of the CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, CBM, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and CINAHL databases was conducted for articles related to preoperative frailty in patients with oesophageal cancer. The search was carried out from the time of the construction of the database to 20 April 2024. Data related to the prevalence of preoperative frailty in patients with oesophageal cancer and their postoperative outcomes and overall survival were extracted.

Results

A total of 13 studies were included, including 12 cohort studies and 1 cross-sectional study involving 53 485 patients. Meta-analysis showed that the prevalence of preoperative frailty in patients with oesophageal cancer was 29.6% (95% CI 24.5% to 34.8%). Preoperative frailty increased the risk of postoperative mortality (HR 1.80, 95% CI 1.51 to 2.14, p<0.001), complications (HR 1.32, 95% CI 1.16 to 1.49, p<0.001) and 30-day readmission (HR 1.24, 95% CI 1.18 to 1.31, p<0.001), in patients with oesophageal cancer, but had no significant effect on overall survival (HR 1.28, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.68, p=0.08).

Conclusions

The prevalence of preoperative frailty is high in patients with oesophageal cancer, and preoperative frailty is strongly associated with increased adverse outcomes after surgery. Healthcare providers should identify preoperative frailty in patients with oesophageal cancer at an early stage and develop targeted intervention strategies to reduce the incidence of postoperative adverse outcomes.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024541051.
Challenges with cancer pain management: novel opioid shortages and cancer trials restrictions
Authors: Wong Aaron Bak Ong , Crock Benjamin , Wright Myles , Wong Aaron Kee Yee
Published: January 2025

Patients with advanced cancer often experience bothersome symptoms requiring specialist palliative care input. Oncology clinical trials commonly include a list of prohibited medications while on trial, to avoid potential drug interactions with the investigational product. This case series illustrates how recent opioid shortages combined with prohibited opioids in clinical trials significantly impacted cancer pain control and quality of life. These cases highlight the need for cancer trial protocols to closely consider the potential impact of prohibited medication lists on optimal pain management for patients with cancer.
Analytical modeling of thick/stiffened base plates with internal anchor rods under eccentric compressive and tensile loads
Authors: Nouri Abolfazl Riahi , Hajiagha Abdollah Rohani , Vetr Mohammad Ghasem
Published: January 2025

To date, some analytical issues of base plate connections such as the contribution of internal rows of tensile anchor rods and the case of eccentric tensile loads have not been addressed in design guidelines. In this paper, extended analytical approaches were proposed to obtain closed-form solutions capable to study such analysis cases for thick/stiffened base plates. The predicted analytical results were compared to those of existing experiments as well as numerical models for two example problems, which are large and typical base plate connections. The results illustrated similar trends and fairly good agreement, since relative errors were less than 10%. The contribution of internal rows of tensile anchor rods in terms of their total forces was observed to be up to 90%. Moreover, the reduction in the relative errors of the predicted results of the proposed extended method, compared to conventional ones, was remarkable, up to 39% for the two example problems. The proposed computationally cost-effective approaches can be utilized in analyzing thick/stiffened base plate connections, in the design phase. However, the proposed analytical approaches are not appropriate for intermediate and thin base plates. This can be attributed to the reduction of accuracy, in terms of large relative errors of up to 20%, due to excessive flexure and inelastic deformations in intermediate and thin base plates under large loads.
Platelet-Rich Plasma versus Corticosteroid Injection for the Treatment of de Quervain Tenosynovitis: A Randomised Control Open Label Equivalence Trial
Authors: CHOWLEY Prasenjit , BISWAS Harajit , MONDAL Keshab , HAZRA Shrabasti , HAZRA Sandipan , DAS Pallab
Published: January 2025

Background: De Quervain (DQ) tenosynovitis is a frequent source of wrist pain amongst middle-aged adults. Steroid injections are recommended after conservative methods fail, despite unclear mechanisms. The effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for DQ is not well-studied. To address this gap, we conducted a randomised controlled trial comparing the efficacy of PRP and corticosteroid (CS) injections for treating DQ.

Methods: This prospective, randomised and open-label trial was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in India. Adult patients aged 18–60 were randomly assigned to receive either ultrasound-guided triamcinolone acetonide injections or autologous PRP in the first extensor compartment. Outcomes were measured at baseline and at 1, 4 and 12 weeks using the VAS and quick disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand (QuickDASH) questionnaires.

Results: Eighty-six age- and sex-matched patients, with an average disease duration of 14 weeks in both groups, were enrolled. Both the CS and PRP groups demonstrated a significant reduction in pain scores and improvement in functions at 1, 4 and 12 weeks. However, between the groups, the degree of improvement in pain was more in CS group at 1 week and similar improvements between the groups at 4 and 12 weeks. Regarding hand function, the CS group exhibited notable at 1 and 4 weeks based on the QuickDASH scale. Yet, by the 12th week, hand function improvements were comparable between both groups.

Conclusions: This study suggests that PRP is equivalent to CS in reducing pain in DQ tenosynovitis. Hand function improved more significantly in the CS group at 1 and 4 weeks post-injection. Both PRP and CS are safe and equally effective treatments for DQ.

Level of Evidence: Level I (Therapeutic)
Advanced Surgical Training Models for Wrist Surgery
Authors: MACLEAN Simon B. M. , BAIN Greg I.
Published: January 2025

Globally, surgical exposure for the trainee has become challenging due to changes in shift patterns, increasing medicolegal issues and the recognition of burnout. Simulation models are a crucial adjunct for the development of arthroscopic skills and open procedures. Advanced anatomically precise 3D-printed wrist models are used in our workshops. The models have pathological lesions within, allowing a range of arthroscopic and open procedures to be performed. Pathology can be ordered on-demand. Arthroscopic and open procedures can be performed, including fracture fixation and arthroplasty. For effective teaching, we use a lab-based environment with basic arthroscopic and open equipment and implants available. We use a specific structure in which to teach trainees, including pre-course material, videos, demonstrations, practice and feedback. Advanced surgical training models for wrist surgery allow for safe, repetitive surgical training to allow the trainee to accelerate their learning curve.

Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic)
Learning from Nature's Cameras: Bio-Inspired Computational Imaging
Authors: Alexander Emma
Published: January 2025

For the past half-billion years, evolution has produced a diversity of eyes and brains that work together to solve visual problems with remarkable efficiency and robustness. By reverse-engineering these systems, we can uncover powerful principles to build the next generation of computational cameras.
The Inverse Problems You Carry in Your Pocket
Authors: Chugunov Ilya
Published: January 2025

In the spaces between data-hungry generative models and measurement-rich computational imaging, we can find the field of computational photography. Can cell phone cameras be an accessible and affordable bridge between modern computer vision and traditional inverse imaging problems?
Epitaxial Si/SiGe Multi-Stacks: From Stacked Nano-Sheet to Fork-Sheet and CFET Devices
Authors: Loo R. , Akula A. , Shimura Y. , Porret C. , Rosseel E. , Dursap T. , Hikavyy A. Y. , Beggiato M. , Bogdanowicz J. , Merkulov A. , Ayyad M. , Han H. , Richard O. , Impagnatiello A. , Wang D. , Yamamoto K. , Sipőcz T. , Kerekes Á. , Mertens H. , Horiguchi N. , Langer R.
Published: January 2025

After a short description of the evolution of metal-oxide-semiconductor device architectures and the corresponding requirements on epitaxial growth processes, the manuscript describes the material properties of complicated Si/SiGe multi-layer stacks used for complementary field effect transistor (CFET) devices. They contain two different Ge concentrations and have been grown using conventional process gases. A relatively high growth temperature is used to obtain acceptable Si and SiGe growth rates. Still island growth has been suppressed for Ge concentrations up to 40%. Excellent structural and optical material properties of the Si/SiGe multi-layer stack will be reported, with up to 3 + 3 Si channels in the top and bottom part of the stack, respectively. The absence/presence of lattice defects has also been verified by room-temperature photoluminescence measurements. Photoluminescence measurements at low temperatures are used to study band-to-band luminescence from individual sub-layers and to illustrate the optical material quality of the CFET stack.
Tuning the Structural, Photoluminescence, and Radiation Shielding Features of Nano ZnCo2O4 through Alloying with CdS Nanoparticles
Authors: Heiba Zein K. , Farag Noura M. , Elshimy Hassan , Mohamed Mohamed Bakr , Badawi Ali
Published: January 2025

The present work seeks to develop the functional features of nano ZnCo2O4 by alloying with CdS for applications in optical and shielding devices. Nanocomposites of (1-x)ZnCo2O4/xCdS (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.25) were formed using the solid state and hydrothermal methods. Synchrotron X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were utilized to examine the structure of the developed specimens. Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy was employed to explore the optical features. The PL spectra showed an emission peak at 449 nm for all samples, however, the intensity of PL decreased via CdS alloying at x = 0.05 and 0.1, while it raised for x = 0.25. The software Phy-X/PSD was employed to explore the parameters of radiation shielding. For all samples, a reduction in the linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) was observed as the photon energy and the CdS content increased. The LAC was enhanced for low energies but reduced for high energies. Also, for photon energies ≤ 120 keV, the mass attenuation coefficient values were studied. ZnCo2O4 alloyed with CdS exhibits higher values of effective (Z
eff) and equivalent atomic number (Z
eq) as compared with ZnCo2O4. The exposure and energy absorption buildup factors were also investigated.
A Case of IgA Nephropathy in a Patient With Sarcoidosis: Confirmation of Glomerular Galactose‐Deficient IgA1 Deposition
Authors: Shimizu Yoshitaka , Ito Daisuke , Arakawa Mayumi , Shiozaki Yuriko , Suzuki Yumiko , Ito Seigo , Ohashi Naro , Fujigaki Yoshihide , Shimizu Akira , Yasuda Hideo , Misaki Taro
Published: January 2025

A 63‐year‐old Japanese housewife was admitted to our hospital because of hematuria and proteinuria lasting for 3 months. At the age of 59 years, she was diagnosed with neurosarcoidosis at another hospital, and she received oral glucocorticoid therapy for 1 year. Her serum angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) and 1, 25‐dihydroxyvitamin D levels were elevated. Computed tomography showed lymphadenopathy of the tracheal bifurcation and diffuse nodular shadow in the lungs and liver. Renal biopsy findings were compatible with IgA nephropathy without noncaseating granulomas and glomerular galactose‐deficient IgA1 (Gd‐IgA1) was stained in mesangial area. Because of clinical suspicion of sarcoidosis, liver biopsy was also performed, which showed inflammation with multiple noncaseating granulomas. The patient was diagnosed with IgA nephropathy coincident with sarcoidosis. After oral administration of prednisolone, mild proteinuria persisted; however, serum creatinine level was normalized, hematuria disappeared, and serum ACE and 1, 25‐dihydroxyvitamin D levels returned to normal. Although some patients with sarcoidosis occasionally present with glomerulonephritis, there have been few case reports of sarcoidosis with IgA nephropathy. This was the first case report in which glomerular Gd‐IgA1 was identified in a patient with IgA nephropathy and sarcoidosis.
Iatrogenic Proximal Urethro–Rectal Perforation During Foley Catheter Insertion
Authors: Tayar Claude , Alameh Ali , Abdallah Rawan , Boufarah Jamil , Tlaiss Yehya , Farhat Hadi
Published: January 2025

Iatrogenic urethral–rectal perforation represents a rare but severe complication arising from medical interventions, notably highlighted in the context of Foley catheter insertion. This case report outlines the presentation, diagnosis, management, and outcomes of a 71‐year‐old male patient who experienced iatrogenic rectal perforation during the routine insertion of a Foley catheter, against the backdrop of several predisposing factors, such as atrial fibrillation, valvular disease, benign prostatic hyperplasia, urethral stenosis, and colorectal cancer with liver metastasis. The inadvertent creation of a rectourethral fistula during the procedure led to an urgent multidisciplinary approach involving surgery and postoperative management, including fecal and urine diversion and antibiotic therapy. The case highlights the critical importance of meticulous technique and comprehensive preoperative patient assessment in minimizing the risk of such iatrogenic complications. It further discusses the management strategies for rectourethral fistulas, ranging from conservative approaches to surgical interventions, and emphasizes the role of fecal diversion, urine diversion, and the potential of robotic surgery in enhancing outcomes for complex cases. The report concludes by reflecting on the intricate balance between routine medical procedures and the potential for severe complications, highlighting the need for heightened awareness and skill in the prevention and management of iatrogenic rectal perforation.
Hypocholesterolemic and Antidiabetic Activity of Peptide Fractions Obtained by Ultrafiltration of Protein Hydrolysates From Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) Seeds
Authors: del Carmen Hernández-Barillas Arlette , Carrera-Gómez Ana Maricarmen , Rodríguez-Miranda Jesús , Hernández-Santos Betsabé , Godínez-Ruiz Marco Antonio , Ramírez-Figueroa Enrique , Guzmán-Ortiz Fabiola Araceli , Torruco-Uco Juan Gabriel
Published: January 2025

Peptide size is a key factor influencing their biological activity. Taking advantage of this relationship, ultrafiltration (UF) emerges as a valuable tool for fractionating complex peptide mixtures obtained from natural sources. Recent studies have focused on the application of this technology to legumes and oilseeds, with the aim of identifying peptide fractions with bioactive potential. The study is aimed at evaluating the in vitro hypocholesterolemic and antidiabetic activity of peptide fractions of protein hydrolysate from sunflower (Helianthus annuus) seeds. The results showed that the highest degree of hydrolysis values was at 120 min with both enzymes: alcalase and flavourzyme with 70.06% and 38.75%, respectively. Protein hydrolysates and peptide fractions showed hypocholesterolemic and antidiabetic activity. The UF membrane process helped to obtain low molecular weight peptide fractions such as the 1–3 kDa fraction that showed greater hypocholesterolemic activity of 79% with both enzymes (alcalase and flavourzyme), while the antidiabetic activity was higher in the peptide fractions < 1 kDa obtained from the hydrolysates with alcalase at 80 min and flavourzyme at 100 min of reaction with a 55.65% and 70.18% inhibition of α‐amylase. The best value inhibition of α‐glucosidase was 34.73% and 46.02% with the peptide fractions < 1 and > 5 kDa obtained from the hydrolysates with alcalase at 20 min and flavourzyme at 100 min. The UF allowed obtaining peptide fractions with different molecular weights with hypocholesterolemic and antidiabetic activity, which could be an alternative for the design and development of nutraceutical products to treatment of chronic degenerative diseases.
Optimization of the Microwave‐Assisted Extraction of Total Phenolic Compounds (TPCs) From Almond Skins Through Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and Assessment of the Antioxidant and Antihyperglycemic Activity of the Extracts
Authors: Harkat-Madouri Lila , Touati Hanane , Boulekbache-Makhlouf Lila , Madani Khodir , Haddadi-Guemghar Hayate
Published: January 2025

Optimization by response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural networks (ANNs) was efficaciously applied to study the operating parameters of microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) in the recovery of total phenolic compounds (TPCs) from almond skins. These models were used to evaluate the effects of process variables and their interaction towards the attainment of their optimum conditions. A comparison of statistical parameters showed that ANN was more consistent (R2 = 0.99) than RSM (R2 = 0.97) to predict a TPC by MAE. Therefore, the following conditions were proposed: microwave power of 562 W, extraction time of 30 s, and ethanol concentration of 53%, corresponding to an optimal TPC yield of 560.79 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAEs)/100 g of dry weight (DW). The almond skin extract exhibited a high antioxidant activity tested by 1,1‐diphenyl‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity (IC50 = 5.39 ± 0.35 μg/mL), phosphomolybdate ammonium essay, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity (IC50042002mg/mL), and ability of chelating ferrous ions. The in vitro antihyperglycemic activity test revealed that the almond skin extract inhibits strongly α‐amylase activity with IC50 = 27.87 μg/mL which was close to IC50 of the therapeutic drug acarbose (IC50 = 14.24 μg/mL).
Supplementary Figures from CD33–CD123 IF-THEN Gating Reduces Toxicity while Enhancing the Specificity and Memory Phenotype of AML-Targeting CAR-T Cells
Authors: Jambon Samy , Sun Jianping , Barman Shawn , Muthugounder Sakunthala , Bito Xue Rachel , Shadfar Armita , Kovach Alexandra E. , Wood Brent L. , Thoppey Manoharan Varsha , Morrissy A. Sorana , Bhojwani Deepa , Wayne Alan S. , Pulsipher Michael A. , Kim Yong-Mi , Asgharzadeh Shahab , Parekh Chintan , Moghimi Babak
Published: January 2025

additional and extended data from stuying constituitive and gated CAR-T cells.
Data from CD33–CD123 IF-THEN Gating Reduces Toxicity while Enhancing the Specificity and Memory Phenotype of AML-Targeting CAR-T Cells
Authors: Jambon Samy , Sun Jianping , Barman Shawn , Muthugounder Sakunthala , Bito Xue Rachel , Shadfar Armita , Kovach Alexandra E. , Wood Brent L. , Thoppey Manoharan Varsha , Morrissy A. Sorana , Bhojwani Deepa , Wayne Alan S. , Pulsipher Michael A. , Kim Yong-Mi , Asgharzadeh Shahab , Parekh Chintan , Moghimi Babak
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has remarkably succeeded in treating lymphoblastic leukemia. However, its success in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains elusive because of the risk of on-target off-tumor toxicity to hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPC) and insufficient T-cell persistence and longevity. Using a SynNotch circuit, we generated a high-precision “IF-THEN” gated logical circuit against the combination of CD33 and CD123 AML antigens and demonstrated antitumor efficacy against AML cell lines and patient-derived xenografts. Unlike constitutively expressed CD123 CAR-T cells, those expressed through the CD33 SynNotch circuit could preserve HSPCs and lower the risk of on-target off-tumor hematopoietic toxicity. These gated CAR-T cells exhibited lower expression of exhaustion markers (PD-1, TIM-3, LAG-3, and CD39), higher frequency of memory T cells (CD62L+CD45RA+), and enhanced expansion. Although targeting AML, the moderated circuit CAR signal also helped mitigate cytokine release syndrome, potentially addressing one of the ongoing challenges in CAR-T immunotherapy.
Significance:
Our study demonstrates the use of “IF-THEN” SynNotch-gated CAR-T cells targeting CD33 and CD123 in AML reduces off-tumor toxicity. This strategy enhances T-cell phenotype, improves expansion, preserves HSPCs, and mitigates cytokine release syndrome—addressing critical limitations of existing AML CAR-T therapies.
A Comparative Study On The Progression Of Neuroendocrine Carcinomas and Mixed Neuroendocrine-Non-Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
Authors: Duan Xiaoling , Zhao Man , Yin Xiaolei , Mi Lili , Shi Jianfei , Li Ning , Han Xin , Han Guangjie , Wang Jinfeng , Hou Jiaojiao , Yin Fei
Published: January 2025

Introduction:The prognostic differences between neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) and mixed neuroendocrine-non-neuroendocrine neoplasm (MiNEN) remain unclear. Methods:This study aims to compare the prognostic outcomes of NEC and MiNEN by analyzing the clinicopathological features of these diseases and exploring factors affecting progression after radical surgery. Additionally, we employed whole-exome sequencing to investigate the molecular mechanisms influencing the prognosis of both conditions. Results: Among the 252 patients followed, 163 underwent surgical treatment. The median time to tumor progression was 16 months (range: 9 to 56 months). Tumor pathology type (P=0.007), lymph node metastasis (P<0.0001), and distant metastasis (P<0.0001) were identified as independent factors affecting disease progression in NEC and MiNEN patients. MiNEN patients without lymph node or distant metastasis generally had a better prognosis. First-line chemotherapy regimens did not show a significant impact on disease progression (P=0.160, mPFS: 36 vs 13 vs 23 vs 15 months). However, the EP (etoposide plus cisplatin) regimen has shown good efficacy in gastric NENs (neuroendocrine neoplasms) (P=0.048, mPFS: 45 vs 12 vs 32 vs 16 months), especially in gastric MiNENs (P=0.022, mPFS: Undefined vs 11 vs 52 vs 37 months). Further investigation into the genetic mutation differences between NECs and MiNENs revealed that among previously sequenced data, rectal NECs commonly exhibited mutations in MUC16, SPTA1, ATM, PDGFB, NF1, FAT4, AR, APC, ANTXR2, and ADGRA2. In contrast, rectal MiNENs showed common mutations in NOTCH2, ZNRF3, CARD11, TP53, OBSCN, FPR1, APC, ANGPT2, ARID1A, and AR. Mutations in ANGPT2 and OBSCN were present in two rectal MiNEN cases, while NF1 and PDGFB mutations were found in two rectal NEC cases but not in MiNENs. The JAK-STAT signaling pathway appears to be specific to rectal NECs and may be involved in tumor progression. Conclusion: EP regimen remains the most effective chemotherapy option for neuroendocrine tumor patients. There were prognostic differences between NECs and MiNENs, as well as differences in genetic mutations and signaling pathways. This study provided new insights into the prognosis assessment and treatment strategies for NENs, particularly highlighting the importance of personalized treatments and the development of novel targeted therapies.
Region of Birth Differences in Medication Adherence Among Patients with Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Kilkenny Monique F. , Dalli Lachlan L. , Andrew Nadine E. , Ung David , Kim Joosup , Sundararajan Vijaya , Cadilhac Dominique A. , Thrift Amanda G. , Nelson Mark R. , Olaiya Muideen T. ,   on behalf of the PRECISE investigators
Published: January 2025

Background and Purpose: Cultural and language barriers may affect quality of care, such as adherence to medications. We examined whether adherence to prevention medications within the year after stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA) differed by region of birth.
Methods: An observational study of adults with stroke/TIA admitted to hospitals in the Australian Stroke Clinical Registry (Queensland, Victoria; 2012-2016; n=45 hospitals), with linked administrative data. Region of birth was categorized into 10 groups (Australia, Other Oceania, North-West Europe, Southern/Eastern Europe, North Africa/Middle East, South-East Asia, North-East Asia, Southern/Central Asia, Americas, Sub-Saharan Africa). Analysis was limited to those with a first-ever stroke/TIA who were dispensed an antihypertensive, lipid-lowering, or antithrombotic medication within 1-year post-discharge. Medication adherence was calculated based on the proportion of days covered until 1 year immediately post-discharge/death. Associations between region of birth and being adherent (PDC ≥80%) was determined using multivariable logistic regression (adjusted for age, sex, stroke type, ability to walk on admission, discharge destination, socioeconomic position, main language spoken, comorbidity score).
Results: Among 24,236 eligible participants (median age 74 years, 44% female, 68% Australian-born), 54% were adherent to antihypertensive medications, 56% to lipid-lowering medications, and 49% to antithrombotic medications. Compared to Australian-born participants, those born in Other Oceania (4.0%) were less likely to be adherent to lipid-lowering medications (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.67-0.90) and antithrombotic (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.72-0.97). Compared to Australian-born participants, those born in Southern and Central Asia (1.4%) were less likely to be adherent to lipid-lowering medications (odds ratio [OR]: 0.76, 95% CI 0.58-0.99) and antithrombotic (0.55, 95% CI 0.40-0.76). No significant differences were found with other regions.
Conclusions: Disparities by the region of birth were observed in medication adherence after stroke/TIA for participants born in Asia and Oceania. Targeted education to improve medication adherence, specific to the needs of these groups, is warranted.
Spermatozoa of the free-living marine nematode, Pontonema vulgare (Enoplida, Oncholaimidae), revealed in testis, uterus and fertilised oocyte
Authors: Yushin Vladimir V. , Claeys Myriam , Bert Wim
Published: January 2025

The ultrastructure of immature and mature spermatozoa, as well as the sperm components within the oocyte following fertilisation and gamete fusion, are investigated in the free-living marine nematode, Pontonema vulgare. Immature spermatozoa from the testis exhibit a stellate nucleus with a nuclear envelope surrounding poorly condensed chromatin. The filamentous sperm cytoplasm contains minute mitochondria and osmiophilic membranous organelles (MO) with a vacuolated structure. Mature spermatozoa found in the uterus are amoeboid cells, polarised into a pseudopod without organelles, while a main cell body includes a nucleus, mitochondria and MOs. The nucleus in mature sperm becomes lobate, and a continuous nuclear envelope surrounds condensed chromatin. Numerous small MOs remain as osmiophilic vesicles of vacuolated structure, lacking contact with the sperm plasmalemma. The prominent pseudopod, filled with parallel arrays of fibres, facilitates the amoeboid motility of the spermatozoon. Observations of spermatozoa within newly fertilised oocytes in P. vulgare align with findings from several studied parasitic nematodes regarding gamete fusion. Within the cortical ooplasm, sperm components form a cluster that includes the nucleus, mitochondria and MOs. Observations of P. vulgare spermatozoa in the female gonoduct confirm key features of the oncholaimid sperm pattern previously described. The presence of a nuclear envelope in spermatozoa represents an important plesiomorphic trait conserved in all enoplid nematodes. This nuclear envelope, retained even within the fertilised oocyte, underscores the differentiation of enoplids from all other nematode clades. Furthermore, the simplified MOs, which remain intact in the mature spermatozoa of P. vulgare and are transferred into the oocyte during fertilisation, may be regarded as apomorphic ultrastructural features characteristic of the Oncholaimidae family.
Aphelenchoides japonicus n. sp. (Tylenchina: Aphelenchoididae) found in the rhizosphere of Camellia sasanqua and Juniperus chinensis from Japan
Authors: Gu Jianfeng , Fang Yiwu , Ma Xinxin
Published: January 2025

Aphelenchoides japonicus n. sp., isolated in the rhizosphere of Camellia sasanqua and Juniperus chinensis from Japan, is described. It is characterised by three lateral incisures, and a slender stylet 8-10 μm long with obvious round basal swellings, an excretory pore located at the level of the nerve ring or slightly posterior, an oblong spermatheca, containing ellipse sperm cells in a single row, but sometimes with spheroid sperm cells in 2-3 rows, a vagina not sclerotised and the vulva having slightly protruding lips and lacking a flap. The post-vulval uterine sac (PUS) is well developed, occupying ca 26.2% (21.5-31.4) of the vulva to anus distance. The male spicules are smoothly arcuate, the condylus very short and rounded, a small rostrum sharply pointed, the dorsal limb 21.6 (19.1-23.8) μm long, lacking a hook-like structure at the distal tip. The tail of both sexes is conical, with a trimucronate process, giving a wide warty mucron-like structure or a star-like appearance. The new species belongs to Group 3 of the Aphelenchoides species sensu Shahina. Phylogenetic analysis based on 18S and 28S D2-D3 of rDNA, along with ITS and mtCOI confirmed its status as a new species.
Anti-genderism as an Intellectual New-Right Strategy and as a Conglomeration of Elements of Group-Related Misanthropy
Authors: Strube Sonja Angelika
Published: January 2025

This article analyses the phenomenon of anti-genderism from two different aspects: first, as a (meta-)political strategy elaborated by protagonists of the intellectual (extreme) New Right; second, following the studies of the Bielefeld Institute for Interdisciplinary Research on Conflict and Violence, as a conglomeration of elements of the syndrome of Group-Related Misanthropy (Heitmeyer 2002–2011; Zick and Küpper 2021). The first aspect focuses on the relatively small number of right-wing protagonists and activists for whom the topic of anti-genderism is an appropriate means to increase their radius of action and their degree of acceptance and effectiveness even within predominantly liberal and democratic societies and to establish worldwide networks (for example Datta 2020, 2021; Mascolo 2023). The second aspect focuses on the mostly unconscious human tendency to prejudice and implicit devaluations within societies—a psychological dynamic which becomes a ‘highly welcome’ means to protagonists of the extreme right in order to trigger negative emotions of anger and hatred. The two aspects complement each other, in so far as widespread prejudices and relatively well veiled authoritarian policy offers come together in the thematic area of anti-genderism and thus develop a special dynamic.
Consistencies and Inconsistencies in the Relevance of Image Properties for Individual and Averaged Aesthetic Ratings
Authors: Stuit Sjoerd M.
Published: January 2025

Visual art has been created, enjoyed, and debated throughout history. The possibility of universal properties related to aesthetic experiences has a long history and more recent additions to the debate are results showing correlations between art aesthetics ratings and basic visual properties such as contrast and colour. However, since most research is based on group data (e.g., by using averaged ratings), the basic properties found to be universal may reflect either a group consensus or a group compromise, where no individual's preference matches the group preference. We asked raters to indicate both (1) if a painting was experienced as positive or negative and (2) if it was experienced as appealing or unappealing. Using a machine-learning cross-validation procedure, basic visual properties of the images were used to predict both individual and averaged ratings. Results show ratings for the experienced positivity and appeal of an artwork can be predicted at both an individual and a group (e.g., using averaged ratings) level. By estimating the relevance of each visual property (e.g., feature), based on both groups and individuals, it is shown that, while features relevant for positivity ratings show some consistency between individual and groups, this is not the case for features related to appeal ratings. Mean ratings can therefore suggest image properties as universally relevant without generalization to individuals.