bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural dynamic responses evaluation of pedestrian bridge under effect of aerodynamic disturbance of high-speed train
Authors: Zeng Jiawang , Yang Ming-Zhi , Zhang Lei , Lin Tongtong , Zhong Sha , Tao Yu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The aerodynamic load caused by high-speed train operation may lead to severe vibration of the pedestrian bridge, thus causing great safety hazards. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the aerodynamic loading characteristics of a pedestrian bridge when a high-speed train passes over the bridge, as well as to evaluate the vibration response of the aerodynamic loads on the bridge structure.

Design/methodology/approach

High-speed trains are operated at three different speeds. The aerodynamic pressure load characteristics of high-speed trains crossing a pedestrian bridge are investigated by combining a nonconstant numerical simulation method with a dynamic modeling test method, and the vibration response of the bridge is analyzed.

Findings

The results show that when a high-speed train passes through the pedestrian bridge, the pedestrian bridge interferes with the attenuation of the pressure around the train, so that the pressure spreads along the bridge bottom, and the maximum positive and negative pressure peaks appear in the center area of the bridge bottom, while the pressure fluctuations in the bridge entrance and exit areas are smaller and change more slowly, and the pressure attenuation of the bridge bottom perpendicular to the direction of the train’s operation is faster. In addition, the pressure fluctuation generated by the high-speed train will lead to a larger vertical response of the bridge structure in the mid-span position, and the main vibration frequency of the bridge structure ranges from 8 to 10 Hz, and the maximum value of the vertical deformation amplitude is located in the mid-span region of the bridge.

Originality/value

This paper analyzes the flow field distribution around the train and at the bottom of the bridge for the evolution of the flow field when the train passes through the bridge at high speed, and conducts a finite element dynamic analysis of the bridge structure to calculate the vibration response of the bridge when the train passes through at high speed, and to evaluate the comfort of the passengers passing through the high-speed railroad bridge.
Health status: the pivot point in trusting smart health-care systems and providers for use
Authors: Alshare Khaled , Moqbel Murad , Alam Maliha , Hanna Moler
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This research aims to investigate the interplay between individuals’ health status and their level of trust in both smart health-care systems and health-care providers and how these factors influence the decision to use such systems.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon institution-based trust and affordance theories, the authors developed and empirically examined a research model using a sample from a prominent US university.

Findings

The findings reveal that both types of trust, specifically trust in smart health-care systems and trust in health-care providers, positively influence the intention to use these systems. Additionally, the authors identified that health status plays a dual moderating role in this context. It positively moderates the relationship between trust in health-care system providers and the intention to use, suggesting that individuals with better health are more inclined to use smart health-care systems when trust in providers is high. Conversely, health status negatively moderates the relationship between trust in the system and the intention to use it. This implies that trust in the system exerts a more pronounced influence on the intention to use the system among individuals with lower health status. This heightened impact can be attributed to the increased necessity for the system’s benefits among this group.

Research limitations/implications

While the power analyses suggest our sample size is sufficient, caution is warranted when interpreting the study’s conclusions. These results have substantial implications for researchers and providers of smart health-care systems. They underscore the intricate dynamics between trust, health status and technology use, offering valuable insights for future investigations in this domain. Furthermore, they guide the design and implementation of smart health-care systems, emphasizing the need to consider the nuanced influence of health status on trust and use intentions.

Originality/value

Past research has focused on individuals’ trust in understanding the adoption of smart health-care systems; however, it did not consider how individuals’ health status can moderate their trust and intention to adopt such systems. In this study, the authors close this gap by investigating the moderating role of health status in the relationships between two types of trust and intention to use smart health-care systems through the lens of institution-based trust theory and affordance theory.
Does protean career attitude affects proactive work behavior? 21st century challenge, the role of LMX and the evidence from banking sector of Pakistan
Authors: Siddiqui Faiza , Khan Naveed R. , Ali Akhtiar
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine protean career attitude (PCA) and proactive work-behavior (PWB) conceptually and empirically by assessing the mediating role of leader-member exchange (LMX) in the context of 21st-century organizational challenges and transitions. The interaction of three theories underpinned the research framework. The theoretical model is based on LMX theory, career motivation theory (CMT) and self- determination theory (SDT) to investigate the implications of the banking sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Research methodology is based on quantitative and deductive research approaches. The quantitative survey was conducted with a sample size of 325 banking sector employees. The SEM technique was used with SmartPLS software to test the direct and indirect effects of the proposed hypothesis.

Findings

The empirical analysis revealed that PCA fosters LMX. The results indicate an indirect effect between PCA and PWB. LMX completely mediates the relationship between PCA and PWB. Conceptually, it is proven that in the 21st century, the traditional career management approach is a big challenge for managers and organizations.

Practical implications

This study holds implications for HR managers, CEOs, institutional employers and HRD practitioners in the context of 21st-century organizational challenges and transitions to understand the phenomenon of PCA instead of a traditional career approach. This study will help managers link their retention strategy with consequence factors, i.e. LMX and PWB.

Originality/value

This study will help to bridge the gap between the literature on PCA, PWB and LMX. It provides managers with a conceptual understanding of the phenomenon of the LMX construct with empirical evidence. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this would be the first study conducted in the context of the banking industry in Pakistan and an empirical and theoretical attempt to correlate PCA and PWB with LMX to get a high banking employee retention rate. More interestingly, the study is theoretically underpinned by CMT, LMX theory and SDT.
U.S. preservation nonprofits in the 2010s: shifting professional approaches, representation and identities
Authors: Velez Anne-Lise Knox , Daniel Joseph , Magoffin McKenna
Published: November 2024

Purpose

We assess changes that have taken place in organizational structure, governance structure and professional approach to U.S. nonprofit preservation from 2010 to 2020. This research contributes to our understanding of pressures shaping organizational capacity of cultural and historic preservation nonprofits in the U.S., focusing on changes in ecological influences at the national and regional level through the lenses of institutional theory and regionalism.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for this study are from an online survey of 75 cultural and historic preservation nonprofit organizations in the United States. The survey was developed based on previous interview research, and respondents were asked scaled and open-ended questions regarding the scope of their work and organizational capacity.

Findings

These data show resource preservation has shifted focus somewhat from individual, private sites to commercial or public buildings and districts. We also noted changes in professional approaches to preservation around engagement in disaster planning and the emergence of social justice as a focus area. Collectively, changes in preservation have implications for representation, public understanding of history and regional identities across the U.S., as well as for the way we understand changes in subfields or like groups of organizations within a larger population of organizations.

Originality/value

This study builds on previous research on the scope and capacity within the U.S. nonprofit cultural and historic preservation, including demonstrating a growing focus on social justice issues within the subsector. It contributes to institutional research on changes in subfields resulting from changes in external pressures and in culture. There are clear practical implications for practitioners seeking to understand the capacities and values in other organizations undertaking similar work. As preservation and cultural understanding of what is worth preserving and promoting changes, society can benefit by understanding current practitioner approaches and encouraging community–practitioner interactions.
Not every story has two sides: the effect of false balance on perceived scientific consensus about interrogation practices
Authors: Han Tianshuang , Snook Brent , Day Martin V.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to test the effect of a falsely balanced message (i.e. exposure to two opposing arguments) on perceived expert consensus about an interrogation practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants (N = 254) read a statement about minimization tactics and were assigned randomly to one of four conditions, where true expert consensus about the tactic was either presented as high or low, and a balanced message (i.e. read two opposing arguments about the factual nature of the tactic) was present or absent.

Findings

Results showed that exposure to balanced messages led to less perceived expert consensus; especially when true expert consensus about the tactic was high. Exposure to balanced messages also reduced public support for experts testifying about the interrogation tactic.

Research limitations/implications

Such findings suggest that pairing expert knowledge (i.e. empirical evidence) about investigative interviewing issues with denials might be powerful enough to override scientific beliefs about important matters in this field.

Originality/value

Researchers in the field of investigative interviewing have put much effort into developing evidence-based interviewing practices and debunking misconceptions on the field. While knowledge mobilization is particularly important in this consequential, applied domain, there are some individuals who aim to hinder the advancement and reform of investigative interviewing. Falsely balancing scientific findings (e.g. minimization tactics imply leniency) with denials is but one of many practices that can distort the public’s perception of expert consensus on an issue. It is crucial for investigative interviewing researchers to recognize such strategies and develop ways to combat science denialism.
What support do care leavers want after the COVID-19 pandemic? Key messages to services and their peers
Authors: Drew Helen , Dunn Valerie
Published: November 2024

Purpose

UK care leavers are among society’s most vulnerable groups and were badly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of the crisis on thier daily functioning, relationships and mental health. The primary focus was the coproduction of key messages from care leavers: to services, to facilitate the provision of relevant, accessible post-lockdown support and to their peers, to encourage positive post-lockdown readjustment.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 134 UK care leavers, aged 18–25, responded to an online survey, then 14 care leavers, recruited via local authorities in the South of England, participated in online care leaver expert working groups (CLEWGs) to build on survey findings, draft messages and outputs and disseminate findings at local and national events. The care-experienced Young Person’s Advisory Group of a UK national charity for care leavers (Become) was involved throughout.

Findings

Survey results and CLEWG discussions showed major impacts on care leavers’ well-being, daily lives and connectedness. Mental health was identified as the primary post-lockdown support need. CLEWGs recommended peer support to help rebuild confidence and encourage help-seeking post-lockdown. Participants called for social care professionals, especially personal advisors, to be proactive and to offer personalised, flexible, genuine support. The primary message to peers was to “ask for help if you need it”, but several barriers were identified.

Originality/value

The messages to services and care leavers come directly from care leavers, based on personal experience, and should provide valuable building blocks for the development of relevant and accessible post-pandemic support.
Why social work needs to embrace data linkage research
Authors: Hodges Helen Ruth , Griffiths Lucy J. , Cowley Laura Elizabeth , Childs Michael Jeanne , Scourfield Jonathan
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Linked data can provide unique insights into both the need for social care services and the outcomes of intervention. Crucially, these insights will be based on much more representative coverage of the population of people receiving social care than is achieved by surveys and they are not subject to the reporting bias that can arise in relation to stigmatised services.

Design/methodology/approach

The opportunities are expanding for linking together routine administrative data from different public services, e.g. health care, social care, education and criminal justice. These linked data can be used for research in trusted research environments which are very secure and where no researcher can identify individuals. Work is rapidly developing using children’s social care data.

Findings

Much of the data linkage research using children’s social care data is being conducted by data scientists and medical researchers without knowledge of the sector, and very few social care or social work specialists who have that knowledge are involved in these studies.

Originality/value

This viewpoint piece argues the need for social care and social work research to embrace data linkage. What is needed is an integration of methods expertise in linked data and substantive knowledge of children’s social care work. The arguments are illustrated with reference to some recent research in Wales.
The impact of audit quality on timeliness of financial reporting: evidence from GCC market
Authors: Bahrawe Seraj
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the correlation between four major indicators of auditor quality: audit fees, auditor size, non-audit services, auditor tenure, financial reporting timeliness and publicly traded firms in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Design/methodology/approach

Total report latency (TRL) is a metric used to assess the efficiency of financial reporting. It depicts the number of days between a firm’s fiscal year-end and the date on which its annual reports are made available on the capital market website. A total of 312 observations were identified from data collected over six years (2011–2016) from non-financial companies listed on UAE capital markets, such as the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) and Dubai Financial Market (DFM). The statistical methods that were implemented included descriptive statistics and multiple regressions.

Findings

The UAE data revealed that audit fees, leverage and profitability affect ARL. Nevertheless, there is a lack of empirical evidence to substantiate the impact of audit firm size, non-audit services or auditor tenure on TRL.

Practical implications

Based on the results, TRL is significantly reduced by audit fees alone. The substantial effort exerted by auditors to complete audit work on time, particularly when high audit fees are paid, may account for this outcome. Despite this, the scale of the audit firm, non-audit services and audit tenure could not further reduce the TRL.

Originality/value

The UAE capital markets are relatively recent developments. Thus, corporations might adopt a more lax approach to enforcing regulatory obligations. Local and international investors require timely audited financial statements to facilitate decision-making and dispel speculation. Determining audit quality attributes that decrease TRL is advantageous for UAE markets, investors and publicly traded companies.
Retaining acquired executives through action
Authors: Parola Heather R.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study explores the effects of relative size on target executive turnover, and how acquiring managers can promote the retention of key employees through procedural justice, informational justice and corporate commitment.

Design/methodology/approach

Multiple regression analysis is used to analyze relationships across 113 domestic acquisitions from 2008 to 2014 using both primary and secondary data.

Findings

Results indicate that target executives are more likely to depart the combined firm in deals of greater relative size, but that acquiring executives can initiate actions to minimize turnover. Results show that acquiring executives that demonstrate procedural justice and informational justice can minimize turnover in deals of larger relative size while acquiring executives that demonstrate corporate commitment to the acquisition can minimize turnover regardless of firm size.

Originality/value

Literature on target executive turnover currently examines why such turnover occurs and the consequences of turnover. Building upon the theory of relative standing, this study provides evidence that target executive turnover is increased in deals of larger relative size, but that acquiring managers can initiate actions to prevent such turnover. Specifically, procedural justice, informational justice and corporate commitment during integration are found to have minimizing effects on target executive turnover.
Empowering Generation Z in manufacturing organizations: a 6-factor self-determination extension
Authors: Salvadorinho Juliana , Hines Peter , Kumar Maneesh , Ferreira Carlos , Teixeira Leonor
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This article seeks to explore the key motivational factors driving Generation Z (Gen Z), within the context of the significant influence of the digital paradigm, employing the Self-Determination Theory (SDT) as a content motivational framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing an abductive methodology, the study combines deductive insights from a systematic literature review on Gen Z’s motivational predictors with inductive findings from a workshop involving six medium and large - scale global manufacturing companies. The synthesis of these results contributes to the creation of a matrix that highlights the relationship between motivational predictors and the psychological needs stemming from intrinsic motivation.

Findings

This paper suggests an extension of SDT tailored for Gen Z, identifying six motivational factors—autonomy, competence, relatedness, purpose, flow state, and achievement.

Practical implications

This research emphasizes the need for a modern leadership approach capable of effectively overseeing remote teams, fostering a balanced integration of personal and professional aspects, and nurturing individual purpose. This approach goes beyond fulfilling the basic needs of Maslow’s pyramid to focus on elevating the significance of work, training, and employee engagement to satisfy higher levels of self-actualization and transcendence.

Originality/value

The study delves into the motivations of Gen Z, a demographics that has received limited attention in the existing literature. The integration of the six factors with SDT reflects a synthesis tailored to the distinctive characteristics of Gen Z and aligns with the principles of the PERMA model within positive psychology.
Dep-capsule: capsule network for depression detection of Chinese microblog users
Authors: Li Ran , Wang Simin , Sun Zhe , Zhang Aohai , Luo Yuxuan , Peng Xingyi , Li Chao
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Depression has become one of the most serious and prevalent mental health problems worldwide. The rise and popularity of social networks such as microblogs provides a wealth of psychological data for early depression detection. Language use patterns reflect emotional states and psychological traits. Differences in language use between depressed and general users may help predict and diagnose early depression. Existing work focuses on depression detection using users' social textual emotion expressions, with less psychology-related knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, we propose an RNN-capsule-based depression detection method for microblog users that improves depression detection accuracy in social texts by combining textual emotional information with knowledge related to depression pathology. Specifically, we design a multi-classification RNN capsule that enhances emotion expression features in utterances and improves classification performance of depression-related emotional features. Based on user emotion annotations over time, we use integrated learning to detect depression in a user’s social text by combining the analysis results with components such as emotion change vector, emotion causality analysis, depression lexicon and the presence of surprising emotions.

Findings

In our experiments, we test the accuracy of RNN capsules for emotion classification tasks and then validate the effectiveness of different depression detection components. Finally, we achieved 83% depression detection accuracy on real datasets.

Originality/value

The paper overcomes the limitations of social text-based depression detection by incorporating more psychological background knowledge to enhance the early detection success rate of depression.
Fueling the circular transition: an empirical exploration of sustainable development goal performance in the oil and gas industry
Authors: L'Abate Vitiana , Esposito Benedetta , Sica Daniela , Supino Stefania
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the determinants of circular economy (CE) initiatives based on the performance related to the sustainable development goals (SDGs) of firms operating in the Oil and Gas (O&G) sector. In detail, adopting a stakeholder–agency theory lens, this study explores the relationship between corporate governance and CE performance measured through SDGs. Specifically, the research aims to highlight how corporate governance attributes could affect firms’ ability to implement CE practices and – in turn – reach a higher SDG performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A global sample of firms operating in the O&G sector has been selected from the Thomson Reuters Refinitiv Eikon database. To test the research hypotheses, an SDG-based CE performance index has been developed. Subsequently, an ordinary least squares (OLS) regression model is carried out to explore the impact of the following variables on the CE performance index: board size, board gender diversity, board independence and corporate social responsibility (CSR) committee.

Findings

The results highlight that the board size and the presence of a CSR committee positively influenced SDG-based CE performance. However, board gender diversity does not have a significant impact on CE performance in relation to the SDGs, whereas board independence appears to exert a negative effect.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study represents the first research that systematically addresses CE performance based on SDGs in the O&G industry, providing implications for the sector from both theoretical and managerial points of view.
Losing and grieving: an approach toward understanding the consequences of brand grief and typology of grieving consumers
Authors: Khatoon Sajira , Rehman Varisha
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the consequences of brand grief resulting from the loss of strong consumer-brand relationships (CBR) and devise a typology of grieving consumers. The paper specifically attempts to understand the effect of brand grief stemming from the termination of CBR due to brand death and brand transgression in the context of product and human brand.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering the exploratory nature of this study, qualitative research methodology employing in-depth interviews from consumers of global products and human brands is employed. To derive further insights, the artifacts shared by the consumers were also analyzed.

Findings

The research identifies several notable consequences of brand grief, encompassing switching, avoidance, hoarding and diminution of trust. Furthermore, a typology is developed to better understand the diverse reactions to brand grief. This model categorizes grieving consumers into four distinct groups – switchers, evaders, amassers and skeptics – across the three stages of grief: onset, experience and acceptance. These findings are consistent across both product and human brands.

Originality/value

Grounded in theories of possessions, loss and recovery and symbolic interactionism across the salient stages from onset to the experiences and eventual acceptance of brand grief, this research delves into the under-examined consequences of brand grief within the marketing literature. Further, the proposed typologies illuminate the scantly understood behaviors of grieving consumers as they navigate the grieving process following CBR loss due to brand death and transgression.
Linking social capital and knowledge sharing: the moderating role of meaningful work with the mediation of emotional energy
Authors: Tran Pham Toan Khanh
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Knowledge sharing contributes to the success of an organization in various ways. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of social capital on knowledge sharing through employees’ emotional energy. In addition, this study investigates the moderating effect of meaningful work in the relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative and cross-sectional approach was performed to collect the data from 403 employees working in information technology (IT) enterprises in Vietnam. This study applies partial least squares structural equation modeling to access the impact of social capital on knowledge sharing, the mediating effect of emotional energy and moderating role of meaningful work on this relationship.

Findings

The results show that social capital has a significant positive effect on knowledge sharing. Moreover, employees’ emotional energy has a complementary effect on this relationship. Moreover, meaningful work has moderating effect on the relationship between social capital and knowledge sharing.

Practical implications

The findings of this study provide valuable evidence and implications for the executive of IT enterprise in boosting knowledge sharing among the employees, in improving their emotional energy, perception of the meaningfulness of their jobs. This is particularly important due to the significant role of knowledge sharing in innovation, development.

Originality/value

Based on a social perspective of knowledge management, this study pioneers the exploration of the mediating effect of employees’ emotional energy in the relationship between social capital and knowledge sharing and the moderating role of meaningful work.
The interface between economic growth, carbon emissions, and health in the Asia‐Pacific region: Analysis of unobserved distributional heterogeneity
Authors: Behera Deepak Kumar , Viswanathan P. K.
Published: November 2024

The increasing nexus between economic growth and the resultant environmental and health challenges are of particular concern for developing countries. However, there is less evidence on the net effect of economic growth (EG) on air pollution, health spending, or vice‐versa in the Asia‐Pacific region. Therefore, this study explores important research questions: (a) Whether there exists any simultaneous relationship between Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita (a proxy for EG), carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per capita, and health expenditure (HE) per capita?; and (b) Does there exist any unobserved distributional heterogeneity across the Asia‐Pacific region that influence the elasticity? To address these questions, we examine the interface between GDP per capita, CO2 emissions per capita, and HE per capita in 52 countries from the Asia‐Pacific region for the period 2000–2014 using bootstrapping fixed‐effects (FEs) quantile regression model. Our results show that there is a variation in distributional effects between HE, EG, and CO2 emissions. By and large, there is a positive relationship between HE, EG, and CO2 emission across quantiles, though the coefficient values differ, and elasticity could be greater or lesser than one. It is also observed that growth raises health spending and increases pollution in lower‐income countries. On the contrary, income growth also promotes the adoption of green technology, reduces pollution, improves population health, and reduces healthcare spending in higher income countries. The study brings out some important suggestions from public policy perspectives to streamline the healthcare and sanitation sectors, and environmental quality across countries as integral aspects of sustainable growth strategies and the achievement of the United Nations SDG Agenda 2030. The findings and suggestions assume added significance in the post‐pandemic COVID‐19 scenario, as it calls for revamping the healthcare management systems across countries.
Geopolitical risk and natural resources: A comparative analysis of trade integration in the African and European Unions
Authors: Nazir Sidra , Mariev Oleg , Sohag Kazi
Published: November 2024

Geopolitically induced energy insecurity can impede trade integration among different economic blocs. This study employs a novel, sophisticated Fourier‐augmented ARDL methodology to explore the relationship between energy commodity prices, geopolitical risks, and trade integration within the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU) from January 2000 to December 2023. Amid increasing geopolitical tensions, this analysis uncovers distinct impacts on the trade dynamics of the AU and EU, highlighting the complex interplay between natural resource abundance and geopolitical risk. The empirical findings reveal that energy resource prices generally impede trade integration in both regions, supporting the natural resource curse hypothesis. However, geopolitical risk has a divergent effect, facilitating trade integration in the AU while hindering it in the EU. One of the novelties of this study is the use of the Fourier‐augmented ARDL approach, which accounts for multiple structural breaks in the data, providing robust results. Additionally, the study comparative analysis of AU and EU regional trade dynamics in the context of geopolitical risks is another significant contribution. The inclusion of precious metals and global supply chain variables provides deeper insights into regional trade dynamics, emphasizing the importance of proactive geopolitical risk management. The findings suggest that tailored policy measures aimed at leveraging natural resources effectively while mitigating geopolitical risks can pave the way for sustainable economic growth and integration in both the AU and EU.
Circ‐ADAM9 Knockdown Reduces Insulin Resistance and Placental Injury in Diabetic Mice via MAPK Pathway Inactivation
Authors: Zhao Ai , Yang Yawen , Yang Yijun , Chi Zhenjing , Sun Yanlan
Published: November 2024

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) significantly risks maternal and neonatal health. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) regulate various diseases but their role in GDM is unclear. We investigated the involvement of circ‐ADAM9 in GDM.

Methods

We analyzed circ‐ADAM9 expression in GDM‐related microarray data (GSE182737) and measured its levels in the blood of GDM patients. In a high‐fat diet‐induced GDM mouse model, we inhibited circ‐ADAM9 expression and tracked blood glucose levels, serum insulin, lipid levels, placental apoptosis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Pathological changes in pancreatic tissues and fetal outcomes were also examined. Molecular interactions were explored using bioinformatics tools and validated through luciferase assays, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), and Western blotting in high glucose (HG)‐induced human trophoblast cells (HTR‐8/SVneo). We further investigated the involvement of circ‐ADAM9/miR‐375/FPR2 axis in HG‐induced injury in HTR‐8/SVneo cells by assessing cell viability, apoptosis, ROS production, and antioxidant levels.

Results

Both GDM patients and GDM‐induced mice exhibited a substantial upregulation of circ‐ADAM9. Knockdown of circ‐ADAM9 lowered blood glucose, alleviated insulin resistance, improved lipid metabolism, decreased placental apoptosis and ROS levels, and reduced pancreatic lesions in GDM mice. Circ‐ADAM9 downregulation also improved fetal viability, weight, and crown‐rump length. In HG‐induced HTR‐8/SVneo cells, circ‐ADAM9 overexpression and miR‐375 downregulation were evident. Overexpression of miR‐375 inhibited circ‐ADAM9 activity, substantiating their binding interaction. In GDM mice, circ‐ADAM9 deficiency restored miR‐375 expression. TargetScanHuman predicted and luciferase assays confirmed the miR‐375‐FPR2 interaction and elevated FPR2 levels in GDM mice were reduced by circ‐ADAM9 silencing. In HG‐induced HTR‐8/SVneo cells, circ‐ADAM9 knockdown restored cell viability, suppressed apoptosis and ROS levels, and enhanced antioxidant enzyme levels. These effects were reversed by miR‐375 inhibition or FPR2 overexpression, suggesting circ‐ADAM9 upregulates FPR2 expression by sponging miR‐375 and modulating the MAPK pathway.

Conclusion

This study is the first to demonstrate the expression and function of circ‐ADAM9 in the progression of GDM. Circ‐ADAM9 downregulation ameliorates insulin resistance and placental injury in GDM by modulating the miR‐375/FPR2 axis and inactivating the MAPK pathway, which may offer a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of GDM.
Primary ciliary dyskinesia and male infertility: Unraveling the genetic and clinical nexus
Authors: Roostaei Ghazal , Khoshnam Rad Niloofar , Fakhri B Maryam S. , Mozaffari Sedigheh , Rahimi Besharat , Kazemizadeh Hossein , Abtahi Hamidreza
Published: November 2024

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by dysfunction of motile cilia in various organ systems, including the respiratory and reproductive tracts. A key manifestation in males is infertility, primarily attributed to impaired sperm motility. Although sperm vitality may be preserved, immotility or abnormal flagellar function significantly impairs natural conception. While a minority of men with PCD achieve fatherhood without medical intervention, most require assisted reproductive techniques (ART).

The genetic etiology of PCD‐related male infertility is rooted in mutations affecting dynein arms and other axonemal components essential for ciliary movement. Diagnostic evaluation relies on semen analysis, ultrastructural ciliary assessment, and genetic testing. Sperm vitality testing is critical when motility is severely compromised, providing crucial insight into fertilization potential.

Management of male infertility in PCD predominantly involves ART. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is particularly effective, as it circumvents the requirement for sperm motility. In cases where spermatozoa retrieval from ejaculate is not feasible, testicular sperm extraction (TESE) offers a viable alternative. Advances in diagnostic techniques and personalized therapeutic approaches have significantly improved fertility outcomes for PCD patients. Ongoing research into genetic therapies and targeted treatments holds promise for further enhancing reproductive success in this population.

This review offers a comprehensive examination of the current knowledge surrounding PCD and its impact on male fertility, elucidating the genetic mechanisms, diagnostic challenges, and evolving therapeutic strategies in the management of PCD‐associated male infertility.
Laparoscopic surgery for pelvic developmental cyst in adults: A report of four cases
Authors: Imai Masaki , Matsuda Takeru , Sawada Ryuichiro , Hasegawa Hiroshi , Yamashita Kimihiro , Harada Hitoshi , Urakawa Naoki , Goto Hironobu , Kanaji Shingo , Kakeji Yoshihiro
Published: November 2024

Developmental cyst is occasionally seen in children but are less common in adults. Complete removal of developmental cyst is necessary because there are risk of infection, squamous cell carcinoma, and recurrence due to incomplete resection. The best approach for resection of developmental cyst is still controversial. Although transsacral approach, open abdominal approach, or a combination of both have been often employed to date, reports of laparoscopic surgery have been appearing in recent years. We performed laparoscopic surgery for four patients with this disease: (i) 29‐year‐old woman with epidermoid cyst; (ii) 21‐year‐old woman with dermoid cyst; (iii) 55‐year‐old woman with epidermoid cyst; and (iv) 77‐year‐old woman with epidermoid cyst. No perioperative complications occurred and no recurrence has developed so far in any patients. Laparoscopic surgery can be considered as one of the optimal treatment options for developmental cyst.
Herbacetin Inhibits Human Fructose 1,6‐Bisphosphatase Among a Panel of Chromone Derivatives and Pyrazoles, Demonstrating Positive Effects on Insulin‐Resistant HepG2 Cells
Authors: Rocha Sónia , Vicente Beatriz , Proença Carina , Silva Vera L. M. , Silva Artur M. S. , Corvo M. Luísa , Fernandes Eduarda , Freitas Marisa
Published: November 2024

In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), excessive gluconeogenesis is considered a major contributor to hyperglycemia. Therefore, targeting fructose 1,6‐bisphosphatase (FBPase), a key regulatory enzyme involved in gluconeogenesis, has gained interest as a potential therapeutic target for managing DM. In this study, a library of 42 structurally‐related chromone derivatives (including flavonoids, 2‐styrylchromones, and 2‐(4‐arylbuta‐1,3‐dien‐1‐yl)chromones, named as 2‐styrylchromone‐related derivatives), as well as 4‐ and 5‐styrylpyrazoles, were tested against human FBPase using a noncellular microanalysis screening system. Herbacetin, 3,4′,5,7,8‐pentahydroxyflavone, inhibited FBPase activity with an IC50 value of 6.4 ± 0.7 μM. The effects of herbacetin were also explored using an insulin‐resistant human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (HepG2 cells). The results showed that herbacetin significantly decrease insulin resistance by promoting the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (Akt), and exhibited a capacity to ameliorate inflammation, evidenced by the modulation of the inhibitor of κB alpha (IκBα). This study provides important considerations for the design of novel FBPase inhibitors. Furthermore, it indicates a preliminary potential of herbacetin's dual action in improving insulin resistance and decreasing inflammation, suggesting the need for further investigation of this compound for addressing the complexities of type 2 DM management.
Edaravone Ameliorate Inflammation in Vitamin D3 and High Fat Diet Induced Atherosclerosis in Rat via Alteration of Inflammatory Pathway and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Du Lingjuan , Wan Jia , Yang Guokai , Ma Zhenhuan , Li Zhaoxiang , Li Guojian
Published: November 2024

Cardiovascular disease refers to a group of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke, among others. Edaravone (ED) inhibits oxidative stress and free radical damage, which are thought to contribute to the progression of various diseases. Thus, the purpose of the study is to examine the cardioprotective effect of ED against vitamin D3 and high fat‐induced atherosclerosis in rats. In this study, Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were utilized. The rats were separated into several groups and fed a high‐fat diet along with vitamin D3 to induce atherosclerosis. Various doses of ED were orally administered to the animals for 30 days. The administration of Edaravone effectively reduced the elevated body weight, as well as the excessive water and food consumption. The treated groups exhibited a decrease in glucose level, leptin, and apolipoprotein‐B. Administration of ED also modified the cholesterol parameters, coronary artery index, atherogenic index, and antioxidant parameters. It also reduced the elevated heart rate, systolic blood pressure (BP), mean BP, and diastolic BP. The group treated with ED exhibited a decrease in the level of inflammatory cytokines. The ED significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the levels of MMP‐2, MMP‐3, and MMP‐9. Furthermore, it induced significant (p < 0.001) adjustments in the abundance of Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, Verrucomicrobia, and F/B ratio. Edaravone exhibited the cardio protection against HFD induced atherosclerosis in rats via alteration of gut microbiota.
Utilisation of patient‐centred outcome measures in age‐related macular degeneration research and clinical practice: A systematic review
Authors: Loo Cheng Yi , Fenwick Eva K. , Man Ryan E. K. , Lamoureux Ecosse L. , Tan Anna C. S.
Published: November 2024

Background

To identify the utilisation, type, and psychometric properties of patient‐centered outcome measures (PCOMs) associated with the performance‐based assessment of visual function (VF) in age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) in clinical care and research.

Methods

A systematic literature search identified studies, available in English, that used PCOMs to assess VF in patients with any AMD severity, published from January 2015 to November 2023. Two researchers screened studies for quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) 2018 and assessed the psychometric properties of the PCOMs with the guidance of Consensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN).

Results

Of 514 studies shortlisted in the literature, 31 were eligible with the majority (77.4%) fulfilling all the MMAT criteria, indicating good quality. The most used PCOM was reading (14/31 = 45.1%), with 5 of the 14 studies (35.7%) showing that the increasing severity and/or progression of AMD were associated with a worsening reading ability. AMD also negatively affected mobility and physical activity levels (7/31 = 22.6%), and visual search and exploration (4/31 = 12.9%). Based on the COSMIN checklist, apart from reading and physical activity measured with the accelerometer, the other PCOMs had ‘inadequate’ psychometric properties.

Conclusions

Limited published studies include PCOMs as an assessment of VF in AMD patients. Apart from reading, there is a lack of robust validation data to support the widespread use of other PCOMs. Hence, well‐designed, robustly validated, and simple to use PCOMs are required for more widespread implementation in AMD clinical care and research.
Heart Transplant Outcomes in Older Adults in the Modern Era of Transplant
Authors: Golob Stephanie , Leiva Orly , Goldberg Randal , Kadosh Bernard , Nazeer Haider , Alam Amit , Rao Shaline , Moazami Nader , Dodson John A. , Reyentovich Alex
Published: November 2024

Background

Because of advances in medical treatment of heart failure, patients are living longer than in previous eras and may approach the need for advanced therapies, including heart transplantation, at older ages. This study assesses practices surrounding heart transplant in older adults (> 70 years) and examines short‐ and medium‐term outcomes.

Methods and Results

This study is a retrospective analysis using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database from 2010 to 2021. The absolute number of older adults being transplanted is increasing. Older adults were more likely to have had a prior malignancy or ischemic cardiomyopathy and less likely to be on extra‐corporeal membrane oxygenation or have a high UNOS status prior to transplant. Mortality at 1‐year was higher for older adults (27.8% vs. 23.4%), but at 5 years there was no significant difference (22.3% vs. 19.4%.). Older adults were more likely to die of malignancy or infection. Adults under 70 were more likely to die of cardiovascular causes or graft failure. There was less rejection in older adults. Mortality has not changed for older adults transplanted before versus after the 2018 UNOS allocation change.

Conclusions

Carefully selected older adults may be considered for heart transplantation, given similar intermediate‐term mortality.
Overweight Impacts Histological Disease Activity of De Novo Metabolic Dysfunction‐Associated Steatotic Liver Disease After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Campos‐Murguia Alejandro , Guetzlaff Lea , Bosselmann Emily , Engel Bastian , Hartleben Björn , Wedemeyer Heiner , Jaeckel Elmar , Taubert Richard , Hupa‐Breier Katharina Luise
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a leading indication for liver transplantation (LT), but also occurs after LT. The prevalence of de novo MASLD (dnMASLD) after LT, based on both surveillance (svLbx) and indication biopsies (indLbx), is unknown. Furthermore, the impact of the distinct cardiometabolic risk factors on histological disease activity has not been assessed. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of dnMASLD and the association between the cardiometabolic risk factors and histological disease activity.

Methods

We performed a retrospective single‐center study in a LT cohort with indLbx and svLbx. Patients with NAFLD before LT were excluded.

Results

We analyzed 249 patients who underwent either svLbx or indLbx. Forty‐eight (19.2%) had either dnMASLD (n = 26/249, 10.4%) or metabolic dysfunction associated steatohepatitis (dnMASH) (n = 22/249, 8.8%). Although dnMASLD/dnMASH was more frequent in indLbx (35.1%, p < 0.01), still 16.5% of patients with svLbx had dnMASLD/dnMASH. While overweight (p < 0.01) and diabetes (p = 0.01) were more frequent in patients with dnMASH, only overweight was associated with histological disease activity in the multivariate analysis. No impact of dnMASLD on the overall survival was observed.

Conclusion

While dnMASLD is more frequent in patients with indLBX, it also occurs in 16.5% of patients without signs of graft dysfunction. Overweight has the strongest impact on histological disease activity and should be monitored carefully after LT.