bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Embryo and Fetal Toxic Effects of the Hydroethanol Extract of Urtica simensis Hochst. Ex. A. Rich Leaves in Pregnant Rats
Authors: Wube Bickes , Asres Kaleab , Woldekidan Samuel , Abebe Abiy , Girma Yonas , Seyoum Girma 
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Urtica simensis has been used to treat various diseases such as malaria, hypertension, diabetes, gonorrhea, gastritis, body swelling, and wound infections. However, the safety of consuming U. simensis leaves during pregnancy has not been evaluated yet. Therefore, this experimental study was conducted to evaluate the toxic effects of U. simensis leaf extract on the prenatal development of embryos and fetuses in pregnant rats.Methods: Fifty pregnant Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to five groups of 10 gravid rats for each experiment. Groups I–III were given 70% ethanol leaf extract of U. simensis at doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg daily from 6th to 12th days of gestation. Groups IV–V were kept as pair‐fed and ad libitum controls. The developing embryos and fetuses were retrieved on 12 days and 20 days of gestation, respectively. Embryos were evaluated for growth and developmental delays. Fetuses were also assessed for growth retardation and external and visceral anomalies.Results: In the embryonic experiment, somite numbers (p = 0.001) and morphological scores (p = 0.029) were significantly decreased in pregnant rats given 1000 mg/kg of U. simensis leaf extract. Embryonic developments of the caudal neural tube (CNT) (p = 0.001), otic system (p = 0.025), olfactory system (p = 0.013), and limb buds (p = 0.026) were significantly delayed in pregnant rats given 1000 mg/kg of extract. Oral administration of 500 mg/kg of U. simensis leaf extract also caused significant developmental delays in the CNT (p = 0.021) and olfactory system (p = 0.032). In the fetal experiment, fetal resorption (p = 0.015) was significantly increased whereas crown rump length (p = 0.012) and fetal weight (p = 0.019) were significantly decreased in pregnant rats given 1000 mg/kg of U. simensis leaf extract.Conclusions: The embryotoxic effects of U. simensis leaf extract were evidenced by significant developmental delays. The fetal toxic effects of U. simensis leaf extract were also shown by significant decreases in fetal growth indices. Therefore, pregnant women should be well informed of the possible toxic effects of consuming U. simensis leaf during pregnancy.
Utilizing Patient-Derived Xenografts to Model Precision Oncology for Biliary Tract Cancer
Authors: DiPeri Timothy P. , Evans Kurt W. , Scott Stephen , Zheng Xiaofeng , Varadarajan Kaushik , Kwong Lawrence N. , Kahle Michael , Tran Cao Hop S. , Tzeng Ching-Wei , Vu Thuy , Kim Sunhee , Su Fei , Raso Maria Gabriela , Rizvi Yasmeen , Zhao Ming , Wang Huamin , Lee Sunyoung S. , Yap Timothy A. , Rodon Jordi , Javle Milind , Meric-Bernstam Funda 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose:
Biliary tract cancers, which are rare and aggressive malignancies, are rich in clinically actionable molecular alterations. A major challenge in the field is the paucity of clinically relevant biliary tract cancer models that recapitulate the diverse molecular profiles of these tumors. The purpose of this study was to curate a collection of patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models that reflect the spectrum of genomic alterations present in biliary tract cancers to create a resource for modeling precision oncology.

Experimental Design:
PDXs were derived from biliary tract cancer samples collected from surgical resections or metastatic biopsies. Alterations present in the PDXs were identified by whole-exome sequencing and RNA sequencing. PDXs were treated with approved and investigational agents. Efficacy was assessed by change in tumor volume from baseline. Event-free survival was defined as the time to tumor doubling from baseline. Responses were categorized at day 21: &gt;30% decrease in tumor volume = partial response, &gt;20% increase in tumor volume = progressive disease, and any non-partial response/progressive disease was considered stable disease.

Results:
Genomic sequencing demonstrated key actionable alterations across this cohort, including alterations in FGFR2, isocitrate dehydrogenase I, ERRB2, PIK3CA, PTEN, and KRAS. RNA sequencing demonstrated fusions and expression of antibody–drug conjugate targets, including TROP2, HER2, and Nectin4. Therapeutic matching revealed objective responses to approved and investigational agents that have been shown to have antitumor activity clinically.

Conclusions:
In this study, we developed a catalog of biliary tract cancer PDXs that underwent comprehensive molecular profiling and therapeutic modeling. To date, this is one of the largest collections of biliary tract cancer PDX models and will facilitate the development of personalized treatments for patients with these aggressive malignancies.
BRAF Deletion in Adult Patients with Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Correlates with Multisystem Disease and Poor Outcomes
Authors: Lang Min , Chang Long , Cai Hao , Lin He , Liu Zheng-zheng , Duan Ming-hui , Zhou Dao-bin , Cao Xin-xin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose:
Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare and highly heterogeneous histiocytosis. There are currently few studies examining the correlation between molecular profiling and clinical phenotype or outcomes in adult patients with LCH. The objective of this study was to characterize the genomic landscape of adult LCH and correlate molecular findings with clinical features and patient outcomes.

Experimental Design:
This study included 254 patients, ages ≥18 years, with biopsy-proven LCH from January 2000 to December 2023. All patients underwent next-generation sequencing or fluorescence qPCR for the BRAFV600E mutation. Patient demographics, disease characteristics, and treatments were collected through electronic medical records. Patient outcomes were collected through clinical and telephone follow-up.

Results:
Overall, 254 patients were enrolled. MAPK/PI3K pathway alterations were observed in 77.6% (n = 197) of the patients. BRAFV600E mutation was the most common (30.7%, n = 78), followed by BRAFindel (18.1%, n = 46) and MAP2K1 mutations (12.6%, n = 32). The proportion of BRAFindel was much higher in patients with multisystem (MS) involvement than single-system disease (24.5% vs. 6.6%, P &lt; 0.001). Overall, BRAFindel was associated with inferior overall survival (3-year overall survival 89.6% vs. 99.0%, P = 0.014) and progression-free survival (PFS) (3-year PFS 50.0% vs. 78.6%, P &lt; 0.001). In patients with MS LCH, BRAFindel was associated with worse PFS (3-year PFS 47.8% vs. 76.0%, P = 0.001).

Conclusions:
This large study provides molecular and clinical pathologic characterization of adult LCH. BRAFindel was highly correlated with MS LCH and was associated with worse outcomes.
Implications of Contemporary Totalitarian Imperialism for the Communist Perspective
Authors: Liodakis George 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Starting from a brief analysis of the structural characteristics of contemporary totalitarian imperialism, as a dialectical supersession of classical imperialism, and of the continuing crisis of capitalism, we focus on the new characteristics of global capitalism, which are arguably crucial for the unfolding geopolitical conflicts and the struggle for socialism. Referring more specifically to the emerging divide and conflict within world capitalism, between western NATO forces (US, EU, et al.) on the one hand, and the rising block of the BRICS countries on the other, we take a critical stance against those (left-wing) commentators or political currents, which consider this conflict as a typical inter-imperialist rivalry and argue for the need of taking an equal distance from the opposite poles of this rising confrontation. As argued, though the revolutionary forces struggling for socialism worldwide should not, by any means, identify with the BRICS coalition, the equal-distance approach should be criticized on the ground that a multi-polar world would be a more favorable condition for a communist perspective. What is more essentially argued is that, independently from the emerging two poles of geopolitical confrontation, there is an urgent need for a transnational class struggle (from below) towards communism, and that the fundamental capital-labor contradiction and the social question should be prioritized as against any national (or capitalist block) contradictions or national liberation struggles. As historical experience has asserted, the opposite prioritization will always work against social emancipation and the prospect of communism.
Uproar against Liberal Majoritarianism: Critiques from African Perspectives
Authors: Favarato Claudia , Hrubec Marek 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The article deals with critiques of liberal majoritarianism from an African, chiefly sub-Saharan-African perspective. It explains the central claims African and Africanist critics advance against liberal majoritarianism and indicates potential normative ways of development. The case study of Guinea-Bissau exemplifies our arguments using a qualitative analysis of interviews with local respondents. The article infers that this is an instance of a more general perception of liberal majoritarianism in Africa. The article contributes to critiques that range from empirical and theoretical concerns over the feasibility of this model in sub-Saharan Africa to analyses of cultural, social, and political specificities.
‘So Much for Literary Democracy’
Authors: De Greve Lore , Martens Gunther 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This study examines the effect and impact of literary prizes, focusing on the Not the Booker Prize (NTBP) and its reception on social media platforms. The NTBP, organized by The Guardian, served as a counter to the prestigious Man Booker Prize, offering a more democratic alternative in which the audience is allowed a central role in nominating and voting for books. This article examines the impact of the 2012 scandal surrounding the NTBP, in which allegations of vote-rigging and author canvassing led to significant controversy. By analysing the Twitter discourse, the study explores how scandal influences the perception and value of literary awards. The findings highlight the tension between professional and lay criticism, the role of social media in literary evaluation, and the transformation of literary prizes in the digital age. Finally, the article emphasizes that cultural gatekeeping is undergoing significant change, while pointing out contradictions and frictions besetting the democratization of the literary field.
What Were the Processes and Impact of Establishing a Book Group in the Hilltop Benefice?
Authors: Baverstock Alison , Bates Leah , Steinitz Jackie 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This project outlines and explores the impact of the establishment of a book group organized during Lent 2023 within a particular benefice, in Surrey in the UK, that had three separate church congregations. The opportunity to join the club, which would run for six sessions, was made available across all three congregations. The title for sharing was pre-selected and each week one chapter was read by group members as preparation. Sessions started with hospitality, followed by the reading aloud of the set chapter, as a group exercise, and an ensuing supported group discussion. Participants were invited to share their feedback on involvement in an online, anonymous questionnaire. This paper outlines process and findings, and highlights observations that are relevant to the wider church and can be built on in future.
By the Book8 – Publishing and the Changing World, 21 to 22 June 2023, University of Porto, Portugal
Authors: Augustyn Kamila 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
In June 2023, a conference organized by the European Publishing Studies Association (EuroPub) – entitled ‘By the Book8’ – was held at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities of the University of Porto (Faculdade de Letras Universidade do Porto – FLUP). This article analyses the participation at the conference, including details of academic affiliation and nationality, alongside the themes represented by the conference papers.
Spatiotemporal Evolution of Marine Heatwaves Globally
Authors: Scannell H. A. , Cai C. , Thompson L. , Whitt D. B. , Gagne D. J. , Abernathey R. P. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The spatiotemporal evolution of marine heatwaves (MHWs) is explored using a tracking algorithm called Ocetrac that provides the objective characterization of MHW spatiotemporal evolution. Candidate MHW grid points are defined in detrended gridded sea temperature data using a seasonally varying temperature threshold. Identified MHW points are collected into spatially distinct objects using edge detection with weak sensitivity to edge detection and size percentile threshold criteria at each time step. Ocetrac then uses 3D connectivity to determine if these objects are part of the same event, but Ocetrac only defines the full MHW event after all time steps have been processed, limiting its use in predictability studies. Here, Ocetrac is applied to monthly satellite sea surface temperature data from September 1981 through January 2021. The resulting MHWs are characterized by their intensity, duration, and total area covered. The global analysis shows that MHWs in the Gulf of Maine and Mediterranean Sea are spatially isolated, while major MHWs in the Pacific and Indian Oceans are connected in space and time. The largest and most long-lasting MHW using this method lasts for 60 months from November 2013 to October 2018, encompassing previously identified MHW events including those in the northeast Pacific (2014–15), the Tasman Sea (2015–16, 2017–18), and the Great Barrier Reef (2016).

Significance Statement
This study introduces Ocetrac, a method to track the spatiotemporal evolution of marine heatwaves (MHWs). It is applied to satellite sea surface temperature data from 1981 to 2021. The method objectively identifies and tracks MHWs in space and time while allowing for splitting and merging. The resulting MHWs are characterized by intensity, duration, and total area covered. Marine heatwaves can have significant ecological consequences, including biodiversity loss and mortality, geographical shifts, and range reductions in marine species and community structure changes when physiological thresholds are exceeded. This results in both ecological and economic impacts. Ocetrac provides a method of tracking the space and time evolution of MHWs that can provide a visualization that demonstrates the global impact of these events.
Sibling relationship qualities and prosocial behaviors in Asian Indian college students: Intervening roles of family respect values and empathy
Authors: Maiya Sahitya , Streit Cara , Kline Gabrielle C. 
Published: November 2024

Despite rising interest in understanding siblings as socialization agents of young adults’ well-being in diverse cultural contexts, strengths-based research on the sibling socialization of youth prosocial behaviors in non-Western, majority world settings (i.e., India) is lacking. The present study investigated the associations between siblings’ relationship qualities (i.e., support and conflict) and prosocial behaviors towards different recipients (i.e., family, friends, and strangers), and considered the intervening roles of family respect values and empathy among Asian Indian young adults. Cross-sectional data were drawn from 197 college students ( M = 21.6 years, SD = 2.3, range = 18–25; 61.6% women) with at least one sibling from urban liberal arts colleges in India. Using online surveys, participants self-reported on their perceived levels of support and conflict with siblings, empathy, family respect, and prosocial behaviors. Path analyses yielded evidence for both family respect and empathy as intervening mechanisms between sibling support (but not sibling conflict) and prosocial behaviors. Sibling support was related to higher family respect, which was subsequently associated with greater empathy. In turn, empathy was linked to more prosocial behaviors towards family, friends, and strangers. Sibling conflict was only directly associated with lower family respect. Findings have key implications for traditional and culturally-integrated theoretical models of prosocial development by emphasizing the interplay of sibling relationship qualities, cultural values, and moral developmental mechanisms for Asian Indian young adults’ prosocial behaviors.
Responses to clinical treatment of bipolar versus unipolar depressive episodes in women versus men
Authors: Baldessarini Ross John , Miola Alessandro , Vázquez Gustavo , Tondo Leonardo 
Published: November 2024

Background: Whether responses to treatment of major depressive episodes differ between women and men or with bipolar (BD) and major depressive disorders (MDD) remains unresolved. Aims: To test for diagnostic and sex differences in responses to treatment of depression. Methods: We compared changes in the 21-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS21) ratings of depression ( n = 3243) between women (64.7%) and men, and between DSM-5-TR BD ([ n = 253] and subtypes I [BD1] vs II [BD2]) and MDD ( n = 2990), using bivariate comparisons and multivariate modeling. Results: Treatments included clinically individualized use of antidepressants (by 92.4%, in doses averaging 90.0 mg/day imipramine-equivalent), sometimes with mood-stabilizing agents (32.1%), second-generation antipsychotics (18.8%), or psychotherapy (38.6%). Depression ratings decreased by 60.6% to a final mean HDRS score of 7.44; response rate (⩾50% reduction in HDRS) averaged 63.7%. Outcomes were very similar in women and men as well as with BD versus MDD, and between BD subtypes. Moreover, age, duration of illness, initial HDRS score, dose of antidepressant, and weeks of treatment, as well as sex and diagnosis were not associated with improvement of HDRS with treatment. Only 6/42 comparisons involving 21 individual HDRS items differed significantly in improvement between sexes or diagnoses. Results were very similar to the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale depression ratings. Only 2.0% of the subjects experienced mood-switching into clinical (hypo)mania and the final Young Mania Rating Scale ratings averaged 0.63. Conclusions: Responses to clinical treatment (as % reduction of HDRS score, response rate, or final HDRS score) of depressed women versus men, and BD (including BD1 vs BD2) versus MDD were substantial and very similar.
Protective Factors for Mental Disorders Among Survivors of Military Sexual Trauma: A Canadian Population-Based Study: Facteurs de protection relatifs à l’apparition de troubles mentaux chez les survivantes et survivants de traumatismes sexuels liés au service militaire : une étude basée sur la population canadienne
Authors: Sommer Jordana L. , Bolton Shay-Lee , El-Gabalawy Renée , Afifi Tracie O. , Sareen Jitender , Mota Natalie 
Published: November 2024

Objectives Military sexual trauma (MST) is a prevalent issue among actively serving members and Veterans, and is associated with adverse health outcomes including mental disorders. This study sought to identify correlates and protective factors for the development of mental disorders among Canadian MST survivors. Methods We analyzed data from participants of the longitudinal 2018 Canadian Armed Forces Members and Veterans Mental Health Follow-up Survey (CAFVMHS) who experienced MST (rounded n = 455; 9.6%). A semi-structured diagnostic interview assessed MST and mental disorders in accordance with DSM-IV criteria. Multivariable logistic regressions examined associations between sample characteristics (2002 and 2018) and psychosocial factors (at baseline [i.e., 2002] and 2018) and any mental disorder since 2002. Analyses were run among the full subsample of MST survivors and additionally stratified by sex, when possible. Results Among MST survivors, 66.5% had a mental disorder since 2002. Among the total sample, those who were officers (odds ratio [OR] = 0.58) or on active duty (OR = 0.52) had reduced odds of any mental disorder since 2002. In addition, less frequent use of avoidance coping in 2002 and 2018 (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.86, 0.64), more frequent use of active coping in 2018 (AOR = 0.64), less frequent use of self-medication coping in 2018 (AOR = 0.79), greater perceived social support in 2018 (AOR = 0.94), and reduced work stress across various domains in 2018 (AOR: 0.67–0.87) were associated with reduced odds of any mental disorder since 2002. Some variability emerged according to sex (e.g., types of work stress or coping emerging as protective). Conclusions Results highlight certain sample characteristics and psychosocial factors that illustrated a protective relationship with mental disorders among MST survivors. Findings may inform targeted intervention strategies that could help mitigate adverse mental health impacts of MST.
Surgical Extraction of the Mandibular First Molar Tooth in the Dog
Authors: Marretta Sandra Manfra 
Published: November 2024

Common indications for tooth extraction include crown fracture and periodontal disease. Extractions performed for crown fracture are challenging since the periodontium is usually unaffected. Even in cases of extraction for severe periodontal disease, roots may be more firmly attached than anticipated. Large, multi-rooted teeth such as the mandibular first molar (M1) are candidates for surgical extraction which is described step-by-step (Figs. 1-9). Extraction of multi-rooted teeth may be particularly challenging since the roots are usually divergent providing resistance to delivery of the intact tooth (Fig. 10). Another anatomical consideration is the proximity of the mandibular canal and the neurovascular structures within the canal. Slippage of the periodontal elevator should be avoided and displaced root tips should be handled carefully to avoid trauma to the mandibular artery, vein, and nerve. The oral surgical methods described here including development of a mucoperiosteal flap, buccal alveolar bone removal, and crown sectioning facilitate uncomplicated extraction of the mandibular Ml tooth. The primary complication associated with surgical extraction of this tooth is iatrogenic fracture of the mandible, especially in cases of alveolar bone loss associated with endodontic and/or periodontal disease. Preoperative radiographs aid the clinician in documenting the degree of pathologic bone destruction before the extraction procedure in order to properly advise the client and develop an appropriate treatment plan. In cases of moderate to severe alveolar bone loss, additional bone removal should be judicious in order to avoid iatrogenic fracture and maintain mandibular integrity postoperatively. Repair of mandibular fracture associated with M1 extraction may be challenging since loss of bone and tooth structure limit surgical techniques to provide fracture stabilization (see the Veterinary Dentist at Work feature on page 22). Osseoconductive materials applied in the alveoli may be indicated to augment and expedite bony healing at the extraction site.