bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water Quality and Land Use Shape Bacterial Communities Across 621 Canadian Lakes
Authors: Onana Vera E. , Beisner Beatrix E. , Walsh David A.
Published: January 2025

Human activities such as agriculture and urban development are linked to water quality degradation. Canada represents a large and heterogeneous landscape of freshwater lakes, where variations in climate, geography and geology interact with land cover alteration to influence water quality differently across regions. In this study, we investigated the influence of water quality and land use on bacterial communities across 12 ecozones. At the pan‐Canadian scale, total phosphorus (TP) was the most significant water quality variable influencing community structure, and the most pronounced shift was observed at 110 μg/L of TP, corresponding to the transition from eutrophic to hypereutrophic conditions. At the regional scale, water quality significantly explained bacterial community structure in all ecozones. In terms of land use effect, at the pan‐Canadian scale, agriculture and, to a lesser extent, urbanisation were significant land use variables influencing community structure. Regionally, in ecozones characterised by extensive agriculture, this land cover variable was consistently significant in explaining community structure. Likewise, in extensively urbanised ecozones, urbanisation was consistently significant in explaining community structure. Overall, these results demonstrate that bacterial richness and community structure are influenced by water quality and shaped by agriculture and urban development in different ways.
Urbanisation Does Not Affect Allometric Relationships in a Widespread Amazonian Dung Beetle Species
Authors: Munguía‐Steyer Roberto , Salomão Renato Portela , Bernardino Glenda Vanessa , Cornelius Cíntia
Published: January 2025

The environmental pressures promoted by urban ecosystems can play a pivotal role in the sexual attributes of native species that persist in cities. Dung beetles' body size and cephalic appendages are determinant for mating success and couple acceptance, directly affecting individual fitness. The objective of this study was to test how different levels of urbanisation affect tubercle length–body size allometry of Dichotomius boreus individuals. Dung beetles were sampled in three habitats: city core, city outskirts and rural sites. Individuals had their body and tubercle lengths measured to assess their allometric relationships. There was a hyperallometric relationship between body size and tubercle length, which did not differ between sexes according to their habitat type. Moreover, there were no differences in allometric slopes between habitats in neither sex. The results of our study could suggest that the sexual selective force for the expression of different tubercle lengths in males and females is similar and responded similarly in the different studied habitats of the urban landscape of this study. Future studies encompassing Dichotomius dung beetles would be necessary to establish the evolution of allometric relationships in this clade and its relation to the intra‐ and interspecific interactions.
The Juan Fernández Wrasse Malapterus reticulatus in the Continental Shelf of Chile
Authors: Almendras Diego , Villafana Jaime A. , Rivadeneira Marcelo M.
Published: January 2025

The Juan Fernández Wrasse, Malapterus reticulatus, previously considered endemic to the Desventuradas and Juan Fernández Islands, is reported for the first time on the continental shelf of Chile. Observations were gathered from reports shared by divers and spearfishers on social media platforms. A machine learning model confirmed these records, providing evidence of the species presence along the coast of central Chile. Therefore, these records expand the known range of the fish.
Does pregnancy in adolescence increase the chances of osteoporosis among aged women? Findings from the ELSI study
Authors: Gonçalves Gisele Souza , Silva Grasiela Junqueira , Sant'Anna Monique Oliveira , de Carvalho Vidigal Fernanda , de Souza Paulino Alice Helena , Lima Daniela Braga , de Almeida Paula Hudsara Aparecida , da Silva Rosângela , Barra Roberta Ribeiro Silva , do Carmo Mariana Araújo Vieira , de Brito Tábatta Renata Pereira
Published: January 2025

Objective

Bone mineral density changes during the life span, rising rapidly during adolescence, plateauing around 30 years of age and decreasing in later years. Life events such as pregnancy and lactation temporarily reduce bone density, and their long‐term effects on osteoporosis development are still unclear. This study aimed to analyse the association between pregnancy in adolescence and osteoporosis in aged women.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study conducted with data from the ELSI‐Brazil baseline (2015–2016). The sample consisted of 2634 women aged 60 years old or over with complete information for the variables of interest. Data collection was conducted through individual home interviews and physical assessments. The dependent variable was osteoporosis and the independent variable of interest was pregnancy in adolescents under 20 years of age. The association between the variables was tested using multiple logistic regression.

Results

The prevalence of osteoporosis was 32%, and the percentage of women who reported pregnancy in adolescence was 38%. After adjusting for socio‐economic and health variables, an association was observed between pregnancy in adolescence and osteoporosis (OR = 1.38; 95% CI = 1.09–1.73), which indicates that specific bone health interventions for teenage mothers could help prevent osteoporosis later in life.

Conclusion

Women who reported pregnancy before age 20 were more likely to report osteoporosis in old age, indicating that pregnancy in adolescence can be a criterion for directing actions to prevent osteoporosis in aged women.
The prevalence and related factors of social frailty in older adults: A low‐ and middle‐income country perspective
Authors: Cataltepe Esra , Ceker Eda , Fadiloglu Ayse , Gungor Fatih , Karakurt Nermin , Varan Hacer Dogan
Published: January 2025

Objectives

There are no studies examining the prevalence of social frailty and associated factors in low‐ and middle‐income countries. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of social frailty and identify the contributing factors among older adults in Türkiye.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 570 participants aged 65 and older, all outpatients at a geriatric clinic. Data for demographics and co‐morbidities were collected. Anthropometric measurements and comprehensive geriatric assessments were conducted. Social frailty was assessed using the 5‐item Social Frailty Index (SFI), and physical frailty was evaluated with the Fried Frailty Phenotype. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on low handgrip strength and reduced calf circumference.

Results

Participants' mean age was 75.2 ± 6.3 years. Social frailty, depression, physical frailty and sarcopenia prevalence were 24%, 25%, 14% and 26%, respectively. Social frailty was reported to be statistically higher in women and those living alone, while significantly lower in married individuals. Depression, physical frailty and sarcopenia were more commonly observed in participants with social frailty (p < .01). Furthermore, participants with heart failure and Parkinson's disease were more socially vulnerable than those with other co‐morbid conditions. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age, physical frailty and depressive mood significantly increased social frailty, whereas being married decreased it even after adjusting for potential confounding factors.

Conclusions

Social frailty was more prevalent than physical frailty among Turkish older adults, reaching 24%. Advanced age, depression, physical frailty and being unmarried were strongly related factors to social frailty.
Quality cue or price anchoring: The effect of price on consumer behavior in repeat experiments
Authors: Yu Luqing , Gao Zhifeng , House Lisa
Published: January 2025

Price is one of the most important factors affecting consumer purchase decisions. Consumers may use price as a quality cue or reference point to make the decisions. However, few studies have considered the quality cue by controlling the price anchoring and vice versa. We conduct four identical experiments weeks apart to estimate the effect of price on consumers' product quality evaluation and WTP. The results show that (1) the price has a significant impact on appearance rating and taste rating; (2) product quality mediates the price effect on consumer WTP only if consumers have incomplete quality information about the product; and (3) the marginal effect of price on consumer WTP differs over time. The results of this study provide deep insights into the role of price on consumers' quality assessment and valuation formation of products.
Morphological Characteristics and Extracellular Matrix Abnormalities in Astrocytes Derived From iPSCs of Children With Alexander Disease
Authors: Yi Huan , Zhang Jie , Gao Kai , Yan Wei , Chu Hongyuan , Zhang Junjiao , Zhang Fan , Jiang Yuwu , Wang Jingmin , Wu Ye
Published: January 2025

Aims

Alexander disease (AxD) is a leukodystrophy caused by mutations in the astrocytic filament gene GFAP. There are currently no effective treatments for AxD. Previous studies have rarely established AxD models with the patient's original GFAP mutations. In this study, we aimed to explore the morphological and transcriptomic characteristics of GFAP‐mutant astrocytes via induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models of AxD.

Methods

Fibroblasts from three AxD children were reprogrammed into iPSCs. Wild‐type (WT) and AxD‐iPSCs were differentiated into astrocytes. We compared the morphological and transcriptomic differences between WT‐ and AxD iPSC–derived astrocytes.

Results

Astrocytes induced from AxD‐derived iPSCs exhibited the Rosenthal fibers (RFs), the main pathological phenotype of AxD. Compared with WT astrocytes, AxD astrocytes had shorter processes, more branches, and larger cell bodies. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that extracellular matrix (ECM) components, particularly chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs), were upregulated, and ECM‐degrading enzymes were generally downregulated. These changes may lead to abnormalities in neurons and myelination.

Conclusions

We explored the morphological characteristics of AxD astrocytes via iPSC models and revealed the ECM, previously unexplored for AxD, may be an important new pathogenic mechanism of this disease.
DNA Damage Repair in Glioblastoma: A Novel Approach to Combat Drug Resistance
Authors: Gaiaschi Ludovica , Casali Claudio , Stabile Andrea , D'Amico Sharon , Ravera Mauro , Gabano Elisabetta , Galluzzo Andrea , Favaron Cristina , Gola Federica , De Luca Fabrizio , Pellegatta Serena , Bottone Maria Grazia
Published: January 2025

Due to the lack of effective therapeutic approach, glioblastoma (GBM) remains one of the most malignant brain tumour. By in vitro investigations on primary GBM stem cells, we highlighted one of the underlying mechanisms of drug resistance to alkylating agents, the DNA damage responses. Here, flow cytometric analysis and viability and repopulation assays were used to assess the long‐term cytotoxic effect induced by the administration of a fourth‐generation platinum prodrug, the (OC‐6‐44)‐acetatodiamminedichlorido(2‐(2‐propynyl)octanoato) platinum(IV) named Pt(IV)Ac‐POA, in comparison to the most widely used Cisplatin. The immunofluorescence studies revealed changing pathways involved in the DNA damage response mechanisms in response to the two chemotherapies, suggesting in particular the role of Poly (ADP‐Ribose) polymerases in the onset of resistance to Cisplatin‐induced cytotoxicity. Thus, this research provides a proof of concept for how the use of a prodrug which allows the co‐administration of Cisplatin and an Histone DeACetylase inhibitors, could suppress DNA repair mechanisms, suggesting a novel effective approach in GBM treatment.
Consciousness trajectories and functional independence after acute brain injury in children with prolonged disorder of consciousness
Authors: Chen Ningning , Zheng Helin , Feng Ying , Chen Congjie , Xie Li , Wang Duan , Duan Xiaoling , Zhang Ting , Xiao Nong , Li Tingsong
Published: January 2025

Aim

To explore the trajectories of consciousness recovery and prognosis‐associated predictors in children with prolonged disorder of consciousness (pDoC).

Method

This single‐centre, retrospective, observational cohort involved 134 (87 males, 47 females) children diagnosed with pDoC and hospitalized at the Department of Rehabilitation at the Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University in China. The median onset age was 30 (interquartile range [IQR] 18–54) months, with onset ages ranging from 3 to 164 months. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the independent predictors of consciousness recovery at 1 year after brain injury. Discrimination and calibration were assessed using 1000 bootstrap resamples. The potential predictors of resultant living independence were also explored.

Results

The predictors for consciousness recovery at 1‐year postinjury were: traumatic brain injury (odds ratio [OR]: 3.26, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.21–9.46), electroencephalogram (EEG) grade IV or below based on Young's classification (OR: 3.41, 95% CI: 1.38–8.70), and no bilateral impairments in the basal ganglia (OR: 3.75, 95% CI: 1.50–9.91) or posterior cingulate (OR: 5.61, 95% CI: 2.20–15.54). A nomogram was constructed with the area under the curve of 0.845 (95% CI: 0.780–0.911). Additionally, EEG grade IV or below, and the absence of bilateral impairments in the frontal lobes and occipital lobes were associated with favorable functional outcomes.

Interpretation

These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive early‐stage assessments in evaluating consciousness and function, assisting clinicians and families in making clinical decisions.
Polymicrogyria in infants with symptomatic congenital cytomegalovirus at birth is associated with epilepsy: A retrospective, descriptive cohort study
Authors: Lawson George , Sheeka Alexander , Gaur Pritika , Alifieraki Styliani , Basheer Nigel , Jan Wajanat , Kachramanoglou Carolina , Lyall Hermione
Published: January 2025

Aim

To identify neonatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features that predict the likelihood of children with congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) developing epilepsy, together with clinical features and a validated MRI scoring system.

Method

This was a retrospective descriptive cohort study of infants with cCMV referred to a paediatric infectious disease centre between April 2012 and March 2022, and followed up for at least 2 years. MRI was performed before 4 months of age and assessed by two paediatric neuroradiologists.

Results

Ninety children with cCMV were included, 46 were female and 44 were male. The median age at MRI was 20 days, (standard deviation = 34, range = 1–200). Seventy‐two of 90 children were symptomatic at birth and 7 of 72 developed epilepsy (9.7% of symptomatic infants, 7.8% of total). None of 18 asymptomatic children developed epilepsy. Those with epilepsy were more likely to be symptomatic at birth (100% vs. 76%, p = 0.14) and to have cortical malformations (86% vs. 15%, p < 0.001). Infants with polymicrogyria (PMG) were more likely to develop epilepsy (odds ratio = 35 [3.9–317.1], p < 0.001). A 1‐year remission was achieved in three of seven children; four required multiple antiseizure medications without remission.

Interpretation

The strongest correlate of epilepsy development was PMG. Infants with symptomatic cCMV at birth and PMG were more likely to develop epilepsy, and were likely to require one or more antiseizure medications. Parents of infants with cCMV and cortical malformations should be counselled regarding this risk. Including PMG severity in cCMV MRI scoring could improve epilepsy risk prediction.
Problem‐Solving Skills of Israeli Higher Education Graduates in Tech‐Rich Environments: An Analysis of PIAAC Data
Authors: Dadon‐Golan Zehorit , BenDavid‐Hadar Iris
Published: January 2025

The knowledge‐based economy and the information society highlights the importance of developing new competencies for personal, professional and social integration. Problem‐solving in technologically rich environments (PS‐TREs) is one of these competencies. This research examines the relationships between higher education and the PS‐TREs competencies in both professional and daily life contexts, controlling for socio‐personal characteristics (e.g., age and gender). Specifically, we focused on Israeli higher education graduates in comparison to their counterparts, between the ages of 25 and 65 in Israel, using data of 5342 participants in the PIAAC survey dataset. Using logistic regression models, our findings indicate HE graduates acquire higher levels of PS‐TREs, compared to their counterparts. This result is positively mediated through socio‐personal characteristics such as being older or being a woman. Specifically, the probabilities of HE graduates utilising PS‐TREs at work and in daily life are higher than that of participants with lower level of education (3, and 3.27 times higher, respectively). We find gender and age disparities, favouring male and younger participants. The probabilities of females using PS‐TREs at work, and in daily life are lower than male participants (70%, and 67%, respectively). Moreover, each additional year is correlated with a 4% decrease in the likelihood of using PS‐TREs in daily life. Interestingly, the acquisition of higher education (HE) is associated with further narrowing of gaps, particularly in the context of work. This study highlights the importance of HE in reinforcing PS‐TREs skills in adulthood to mitigate social and labour exclusion.
Teaching Motivation of In‐Service Teachers, Professional Identity, and Self‐Efficacy for Teaching Computational Thinking
Authors: Polat Elif , Kadirhan Zafer , Hopcan Sinan , Yildiz Durak Hatice , Canbazoglu Bilici Sedef
Published: January 2025

This study aims to examine the structures that affect the teaching motivation of in‐service teachers. In this context, self‐efficacy in teaching computational thinking and professional identity have been focused on. To that end, the relational screening model has been used. A demographic information form and three different scales were used to collect the data. The Teacher Professional Identity Scale has been adapted to Turkish culture for teachers in the context of this study. The Structural Equation Model was used in the analysis of the data. As a result of the research, teachers with a solid commitment to subject knowledge and academic standards are more likely to prioritise specific teaching orientations. However, no significant relationships were found between Instructor Identity Orientation (IIO) and T‐STEM Computational Thinking Self‐efficacy (SE), T‐STEM Computational Thinking Outcome Expectation (OE), Intrinsic Motivation (IM) and Extrinsic Motivation (EM). SE, in teaching computational thinking, displayed positive associations with Teacher‐centered Orientation (TCO), OE, and IM. This implies that teachers who feel confident in their ability to teach computational thinking tend to adopt a more teacher‐centered approach, have positive outcome expectations, and experience intrinsic motivation. Teaching motivation was positively associated with teachers' self‐efficacy and outcome expectancy beliefs for teaching computational thinking. The fact that teachers have the necessary equipment for their professional identities, examining the variables related to this competence, and developing suggestions is an essential reason for the importance of the current research and shedding light on future studies.
Learning to Play the Piano in China: Opportunities to Improve the Skills of Piano Playing and Piano Performance Based on the Professional Performance of Modern Pianists
Authors: Chen Chen , Lin Wen
Published: January 2025

This research aimed to study the peculiarities of learning to play the piano in China as a consequence of improving piano skills arising from the professional performance of modern pianists. By employing the coefficient of performance, it was determined by the authors that merely 11% of respondents possessed a high level of baseline piano skills, while 76% demonstrated intermediate proficiency. This finding indicates a deficiency in the ability to execute intricate musical compositions. According to students, concentration on professional piano work added to the development of piano skills. The study of the features of Lang Lang's piano work showed that the composer used extravagance techniques, focused on individual nuances, and popularised classical music. The practical significance of this paper lies in the possibility of applying the playing principles of famous pianists in the educational system to develop learning mechanisms.
What Is the Association Between Teachers' Autonomous Motivation, Controlled Motivation and Students' Emotional Well‐Being? A Multilevel Mediation Analysis
Authors: Ju Enxia , Qi Huaiyuan , Qu Guoliang , Luo Yangmei , Li Ying , You Xuqun
Published: January 2025

Teachers' motivation, which pertains to the reasons to sustain teaching, plays a pivotal role in shaping students' learning motivation, school engagement, and academic achievement. However, the relationship between teachers' motivation and students' emotional well‐being remains unclear. This study, grounded in self‐determination theory and the prosocial classroom model, investigated the associations between teachers' autonomous motivation and controlled motivation with students' emotional well‐being and examined the potential mediating role of students' perceived teacher‐student relationships and teacher support in these associations. The current study involved 49 homeroom teachers and 1853 students, assessing teachers' autonomous motivation, controlled motivation, students' perception of teacher support, teacher‐student relationships, and emotional well‐being. The results of the multilevel analysis indicated that (1) teachers' autonomous motivation positively predicted students' emotional well‐being, mediated by teacher support; (2) teachers' controlled motivation negatively predicted students' emotional well‐being, mediated by both students' perception of the student‐teacher relationship and teacher support. The findings underscore the significance of intervening in teachers' work motivation, particularly controlled motivation, in educational and teaching practices to improve students' mental health.
Scoping Review of Universal Design for Learning Principles Embedded in Subjects in Secondary Education
Authors: Phelan Danielle , Maguire Helen , Finnegan Clare
Published: January 2025

To date, much of the research on UDL has focussed on higher education, with a dearth of research surrounding UDL within secondary education. This study aimed to identify the application of the principles of UDL embedded in subjects in secondary education worldwide. The PRISMA ScR methodological framework was employed, and numerical summaries and thematic analysis were utilised to describe the data quantitatively and qualitatively, respectively. Results demonstrate that most of the articles were based in North America, used an intervention study approach and reported positive results on student engagement post‐intervention. While all articles displayed evidence of UDL pedagogical practices, some articles did not specifically identify these practises as UDL. This could suggest that (1) an awareness of UDL as an inclusive pedagogical framework is lacking in current educational research, and/or (2) UDL may be incorporated into teaching practices more frequently than is currently being identified. The findings suggest that future research from a European context may provide novel insight into the operationalisation and potential of UDL in secondary education.
From Technology‐Challenged Teachers to Empowered Digitalized Citizens: Exploring the Profiles and Antecedents of Teacher AI Literacy in the Chinese EFL Context
Authors: Pan Ziwen , Wang Yongliang
Published: January 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) literacy has come to the spotlight, empowering individuals to adeptly navigate the modern digitalised world. However, studies on teacher AI literacy in the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) context remain limited. This study aims to identify intraindividual differences in AI literacy and examine its associations with age and years of teaching experience among 782 English teachers. Given the absence of a reliable instrument to measure teacher AI literacy, we first constructed and validated a scale encompassing five sub‐scales: AI Knowledge, AI Use, AI Assessment, AI Design, and AI Ethics. Subsequently, latent profile analysis (LPA) was conducted using Mplus 7.4, with the results revealing four distinct profiles: Poor AI literacy (C1: 12.1%), Moderate AI literacy (C2: 45.5%), Good AI literacy (C3: 28.4%), and Excellent AI literacy (C4: 14.1%). Multinomial logistic regression analyses indicated significant associations between teacher AI literacy and both age and years of teaching experience. Additionally, 32 respondents participated in semi‐structured interviews. The qualitative data analysed with MAXQDA 2022 triangulated the quantitative results and offered deeper insights into teachers’ perceptions of their AI literacy. This study provides both theoretical and practical implications for understanding teacher AI literacy in the Chinese EFL context.
A Brief Discussion of Research Philosophies for Higher Education Students
Authors: May Daniel E.
Published: January 2025

Students developing their theses/dissertations can find it difficult to justify their methodologies from a philosophical perspective. The objective of this article was to provide guidance to higher education students and to help them to select the right philosophical framework for their chosen methodological approach. For this purpose, a simple and concise description of key research philosophies currently used for either qualitative, quantitative or mixed method research is provided.
Using High‐Resolution Fisheries Data to Identify Spatial Patterns in Retained Catch Compositions for Mixed Fisheries
Authors: Anastasi Gianfranco , Ball Johnathan , Martinez Roi L. , Dolder Paul J.
Published: January 2025

Mixed fisheries exploit fish stocks that are heterogeneously distributed in space using gears that are not species selective. This poses a challenge for management as catch limits for less productive stocks constrain catches of more productive stocks leading to losses in yield and economic value. Decoupling catches of stocks caught together in mixed fisheries could increase potential yields and may be achieved through changes in spatial fishing patterns. This study identifies fine‐scale spatial patterns of retained catches for the UK otter trawlers in UK waters by combining vessel monitoring system positional information and logbook data on retained catches. Spatially contiguous units were identified through a combination of Principal Components Analysis and spatial clustering. Our results show a complex spatial structure in the fish assemblage which differs across UK sea areas, with greater similarity between the Northern North Sea and West of Scotland compared to other sea areas. Through simulation, we highlight how fine‐scale spatially resolved fisheries data can identify areas where choke risks from catches of low‐quota, low‐productivity species associated with target species can be reduced. This underscores the value of fine‐scale data for enhancing efficiency and sustainability in mixed fisheries. Wider benefits from the use of fine‐scale data include the ability to identify consistent spatial métier definitions for use in modelling technical interactions. Ultimately, our study informs strategies and approaches that decouple catches of low‐quota, low‐productivity species caught together in mixed fisheries, improving sustainability and the conservation of living resources under complex management challenges.
Engaging in transnational ways of teaching and building a community of practice: Preservice teachers’ experiences in an online after‐school program
Authors: Kwon Jungmin
Published: January 2025

Employing the concepts of transnational funds of knowledge and community practice, this ethnographic case study examines the experiences of preservice world language teachers in a year‐long teaching methods course. It focuses on an online after‐school program where preservice teachers taught languages and cultures to children from linguistically and culturally diverse backgrounds. The findings illustrate how a teacher candidate from a multilingual and immigrant background drew on her transnational lived experiences and encouraged students to think beyond the boundaries of languages, cultures, and countries. Findings also show how preservice teachers in the program learned from fellow teachers’ practices and built a shared repertoire of resources to engage in transnational ways of teaching language and culture. This study underscores the importance of providing clinical opportunities where preservice teachers can put theory into practice, incorporate transnational funds of knowledge that learners possess, and challenge linguistic, cultural, and geographic boundaries.
Haemophilia Infants Gross Motor Development: Comparisons With Full‐Term and Preterm Infants of the Same Nationality
Authors: Syrengelas Dimitrios , Dettoraki Athina , Michalopoulou Aikaterini , Kleisiouni Paraskevi , Siahanidou Tania , Moschou Christina T. , Kyprianou Miltiades A. , Peristeris Platon , Pergantou Helen
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Infants with haemophilia, due to parental overprotection, have difficulty developing their full motor repertoire of typical gross motor development. It is of great clinical importance to evaluate the motor development of these infants with a standardized assessment tool.

Aim

To study the gross motor development in infants with haemophilia, using the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS) and compare it with full‐term (FT) and preterm infants (PT).

Methods

Fifteen FT infants with severe or moderate haemophilia A and B were assessed with the AIMS (Group D). The scale is already standardized in FT Greek infants (Group A). Two groups of PT infants were also included, with gestational age >32 weeks and ≤32 weeks, Groups B and C, respectively. The mean Z‐scores were tested with the ANOVA procedure, followed by post hoc pairwise comparisons with Bonferroni correction.

Results

The four groups had significantly different mean Z‐scores. Infants in Group A had a mean Z‐score of 0 ± 1. Infants in Group B lagged significantly behind by one standard deviation. Preterm infants in Group C had a mean Z‐score significantly lower than Group B. Infants in Group D had a mean Z‐score significantly lower than Group C.

Conclusions

Motor development in infants with haemophilia significantly lags behind both FT and PT infants. Differences in AIMS scores could be attributed to the reduction of movement activity, since infants with haemophilia are often deprived of certain positions, being held and carried in the parents' arms, as well as from free play time on the floor.
Operationalising a Haemophilia Gene Editing Lexicon for Practical Use
Authors: McKeown William , Hermans Cedric , Unzu Carmen , Kay Mark A. , Peyvandi Flora , Smith Penni , Miesbach Wolfgang , Pierce Glenn F. , Khair Kate , Valentino Leonard A. , Pipe Steven W. , Pillai Monisha , Jones Micheala , Delwart Virginie , Sindhurakar Anil , Gutstein David E. , Kessler Craig M.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Gene editing therapies offer the possibility of substantial improvement in treatment and quality of life for people with haemophilia (PWH) in a landscape of dynamic therapeutic advancement. Developing a common and understandable language to discuss gene editing will be essential to ensure these treatments can be deployed in a safe and effective manner with fully informed and shared decision‐making between healthcare professionals (HCPs) and PWH. A lexicon explaining and clarifying key concepts is one potential tool to address these aims. Here we evaluate how a gene editing lexicon could be deployed to maximise impact and improve patient outcomes.

Aim

To operationalise the gene editing lexicon for successful adoption by the haemophilia community.

Methods

Through an innovative, iterative process, representatives from the haemophilia community, including multidisciplinary HCPs, PWH, and caregivers, with support from language strategy experts, developed a gene editing lexicon and evaluated operational aspects for real‐world adoption of this resource.

Results

A gene editing lexicon was developed, including infographics illustrating key concepts. Infographics were adapted from the lexicon to further clarify and communicate these concepts. Infographics were found to be a potentially vital tool for enhancing the practical use of the lexicon to promote shared decision‐making and attain informed consent for gene editing therapies.

Conclusion

A gene editing lexicon shows promise for improving the understanding of gene editing for all stakeholders in the haemophilia community. Ensuring the lexicon remains up to date with current therapies and appropriate strategies for adoption such as infographics will enable this resource to have maximum impact.
Should Metronidazole Be Included in Second‐Line Treatment After Standard Triple Therapy for Helicobacter pylori?: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Mori Hideki , Nishizawa Toshihiro , Morioka Kohei , Kato Motohiko , Kanai Takanori
Published: January 2025

Background and Aim

Although standard triple therapy remains the first‐line eradication treatment for H. pylori worldwide, it is unclear whether metronidazole should be included empirically in second‐line eradication treatments. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of metronidazole‐containing regimens with that of metronidazole‐free regimens after failure of first‐line eradication using standard triple therapy.

Methods

PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and the Igaku‐Chuo‐Zasshi database were searched to identify RCTs eligible for inclusion in this systematic review and meta‐analysis. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Results

Thirteen eligible RCTs were included, with a total of 2039 patients assigned to metronidazole‐containing (975 patients) or metronidazole‐free (1064 patients) regimens. Metronidazole‐containing regimens had significantly lower eradication failure rates than regimens without metronidazole (OR 0.55; 95% CI, 0.39–0.78). Subgroup analysis based on the regional risk of metronidazole resistance demonstrated that metronidazole‐containing regimens had lower eradication failure rates not only in low‐risk regions but also in high‐risk regions (OR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.11–0.74 and OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.49–0.91, respectively).

Conclusion

After failure of standard triple therapy, secondary eradication treatment regimens containing metronidazole demonstrate higher eradication rates than those without metronidazole.
Acute Nonsustained Mitral Isthmus Block Obtained With Sphere‐9 Lattice‐Tip Catheter Completed With Vein of Marshall Ethanol Infusion
Authors: Kneizeh Kinan , Vlachos Konstantinos , Monaco Cinzia , Jaïs Pierre , Pambrun Thomas , Derval Nicolas
Published: January 2025

Background

Achieving a durable mitral line block using radiofrequency as a part of an anatomical approach for ablation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation or for treating peri‐mitral flutter has always been challenging due to the complex anatomy of the mitral isthmus. Epicardial ablation via the coronary sinus and the vein of Marshall has been proposed to help create durable lesions. Recently, a novel lattice‐tip catheter using pulsed field ablation has shown promising results for creating mitral lines, despite limited data.

Methods and Results

We present a case demonstrating the recovery of connection through the mitral isthmus after a waiting period, despite initial clear isolation achieved by creating an endocardial linear lesion. This necessitated further epicardial lesions, performed via ethanol infusion into the vein of Marshall, due to the presence of a coronary sinus CRT lead in this patient.

Conclusion

Despite the high rates of acute mitral line block with PFA the rate of recurrence might be significant. Considering its novelty, our experience with point‐by‐point PFA is more limited. The present case report highlights the risk of delayed reconnection treated with EI‐VOM. Further studies are warranted to explore additional outcomes and recurrence patterns among these patients.
The long reach of adversity: Intermediary pathways from maternal adverse childhood experiences to child socio‐emotional and cognitive outcomes
Authors: Madigan Sheri , Plamondon André , Jenkins Jennifer M.
Published: January 2025

Background

This longitudinal study with multi‐informant (maternal, paternal, and experimenter) and multimethod (questionnaires, behavioral observations, and standardized assessments) data tests an intergenerational model from mothers' adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to their children's socio‐emotional and cognitive outcomes.

Methods

Participants were 501 children (50.7% male) and caregivers (56.5% white) followed from child age 2 months to 5 years. Mothers reported on their ACEs, as well as their postnatal socio‐economic status (SES), marital conflict, and depressive symptoms. Observers rated maternal sensitivity using validated coding systems. Partners' history of childhood conduct problems and children's emotional and conduct problems were rated by mothers and fathers, and cognition was assessed by experimenters using standardized assessments.

Results

Maternal ACEs score was associated with children's socio‐emotional and cognitive outcomes through unique intermediary pathways. Specifically, maternal ACEs were related to child emotion problems through SES, paternal history of conduct problems, and maternal depression. Maternal ACEs to child conduct problems operated via SES, paternal history of conduct problems, and marital conflict. Maternal ACEs to child cognitive skills operated through SES and maternal sensitivity.

Conclusions

Maternal ACEs, economic stress, and paternal history of conduct problems may collectively strain families, diverting caregiver attention and resources, which may impact childrearing and children's development. To effectively address root causes of intergenerational risks, it is critical to advocate for resources and supports that mitigate these hardship conditions. In addition, interventions that target modifiable individual and family factors may hold the greatest promise for breaking cycles of generational risk and promoting healthier outcomes for children and families.
Improving Patient Reported Outcome Measure Collection Through Increased Patient Outreaches: Utilization of a Return‐to‐Work Program
Authors: Schmitt Stacy L. , Ford Sasha R. , Pisati Tejaswini , Springsted Martha L. , Mauck William D. , Hardesty Kevin G. , Tiegs‐Heiden Christin A.
Published: January 2025

Rationale

Patient reported outcome (PRO) measures are a critical tool to understand the patient's experience of their illness. Our institution collects PRO measures for patients receiving spine care through several modalities, including direct patient outreaches.

Aims and Objectives

We designed a quality project to increase the total number of patient outreaches within 1 year, without increasing program resources or costs, by utilizing a return‐to‐work program.

Method

Spine PRO collection rate data was extracted from the electronic health record by a data science analyst. This data included how many direct patient outreaches were completed each month and the average number of patient outreaches being completed by the patient outreach representative. For the balancing measure, full‐time equivalent costs were monitored throughout the baseline and pilot periods.

Results

During the 6‐month baseline period, 3477 patient outreaches were made, representing 14.5% of possible outreaches. During the first 3‐month post‐intervention remeasure period, 6272 patient outreaches were made, an increase of 55.44%. During the second 3‐month post‐intervention period, 9099 outreaches were made, an increase of 38.21% from the first remeasure. There was no increase in cost to the program related to the project.

Conclusion

This increase in patient outreaches by return‐to‐work employees will translate to improvement in overall PRO collection rates, which may ultimately improve individual and population health care delivery.
Current Landscape of Adoptive Cell Therapy and Challenge to Develop “Off‐The‐Shelf” Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Shin Seung Kak , Mishima Yuta , Lee Yoonseok , Kwon Oh Sang , Kim Ju Hyun , Kim Yun Soo , Kaneko Shin
Published: January 2025

Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) is a type of immunotherapy in which autologous or allogeneic immune cells, such as tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes or engineered lymphocytes, are infused into patients with cancer to eliminate malignant cells. Recently, autologous T cells modified to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) targeting CD19 showed a positive response in clinical studies for hematologic malignancies and have begun to be used in clinical practice. This article discusses the current status and promise of ACT research in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), focusing on challenges in off‐the‐shelf ACT using primary cells or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) with or without genetic engineering. Early clinical trials of autologous GPC‐3‐, MUC1‐, or CEA‐targeted CAR‐T cell therapies are underway for HCC. There is a growing demand for the development of off‐the‐shelf therapies due to the high cost and manufacturing issues associated with autologous CAR‐T. The development of ACT from various cell sources, such as NK cells, NKT cells, macrophages, and γδ T cells without MHC restriction other than T cells has been proposed. Advances in genome editing, including HLA gene knockout to avoid GvHD, and strategies to enhance efficacy in overcoming the suppressive tumor microenvironment, are used to create universal ‘off‐the‐shelf’ CAR‐T cells which can be used immediately as therapeutic products from healthy donors or iPSC‐derived immune cells. Despite several limitations, cell‐based immunotherapy is expected to become a key cancer treatment modality for both hematologic malignancies and solid tumors including HCC, thanks to technological advancements overcoming these challenges.
Triple bottom line analysis of the decline in foreign tourist demand in Japan due to the COVID‐19 pandemic: Counterfactual structural decomposition approach
Authors: Oga Yusuke , Kagawa Shigemi
Published: January 2025

This study developed a consumption‐endogenous input–output analysis framework and a novel counterfactual structural decomposition analysis (SDA) framework to assess the economic, social, and environmental effects of the 2020 decline in foreign tourists due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. The results show a pandemic‐induced loss of 33 million tourists, resulting in 3.44 trillion JPY in value‐added losses, employment declines for 868,976 people, and environmental benefits of an 11.6 Mt‐CO2 emissions reduction. Sectors hit the hardest include hotels, eating and drinking services, and wholesale and retail trade. The deterioration revealed a 100% reduction in value added from foreign visitors, whereas shifts in production contributed to a 3.6% increase in CO2 emissions. This study recommends government intervention, focusing on stipends for sectors with the highest value‐added losses and employment declines, as well as support funds for sectors that reduce environmental impact.
Fiscal Policy Instruments for Inclusive Labor Markets: A Review
Authors: Ernst Ekkehard , Merola Rossana , Reljic Jelena
Published: January 2025

This paper critically reviews fiscal policy instruments—including active labor market policies, social protection measures, care policies, and tax reforms—focusing on their differentiated impacts on underrepresented groups and their potential to foster labor market inclusivity. Our review reveals that empirical studies often overemphasize the capacity of individual policies to mitigate inequalities, neglecting the complex interdependencies among various mechanisms and policies. Instead, we argue for a systematic approach to ensure equitable access to good jobs and address disparities across labor market groups. Although sector‐specific training and reskilling are essential, their effects often take time to materialize, highlighting the necessity of complementary labor demand measures, such as public works schemes, and employment subsidies, to address immediate challenges and promote inclusive growth. Care policies remain central to improving female labor market participation by alleviating their unpaid care burdens. The review also identifies critical research gaps, including the need for longitudinal studies on long‐term policy impacts, an exploration of regional disparities in labor market inequalities, and sector‐specific effects of fiscal measures.
Cryptic diversity and evolutionary history of the fish species Xenotoca variata (Cyprinodontiformes: Goodeidae) in the Mexican Plateau: Implications for taxonomy and conservation
Authors: Beltrán‐López Rosa Gabriela , Domínguez‐Domínguez Omar , Pérez‐Ponce de León Gerardo , Mar‐Silva Adan Fernando , Perea Silvia , Pérez‐Rodríguez Rodolfo , Piller Kyle R. , Mejía‐Mojica Humberto , Doadrio Ignacio
Published: January 2025

Geological and climatic events frequently represent the primary explanations to describe evolutionary processes among species. Freshwater fishes have been used previously as models to uncover evolutionary and historical biogeographic patterns in central Mexico, hydrologic systems and biotas. Xenotoca variata (Cyprinodontiformes: Goodeidae) is one of the most widely distributed species across central Mexico. The species represents a highly dimorphic and sexually selective species. In this study, the phylogenetic and phylogeographic patterns of populations of X. variata, using one mitochondrial locus (cytb) and three nuclear loci (S7, RHO, and RAG1), were described in order to understand the evolutionary history of the species throughout its distributional range. Two well‐defined and highly supported clades were recovered with all analyses and genes studied, with an estimated divergence time of ca. 2.42 Mya, corroborating the existence of an independent evolutionary unit in Cuitzeo Lake and its recognition as a putative new species. Also, a phylogeographic structure in two genes was found within the widely distributed clades. The role played by climate change events and geological history as well as the possible influence of reproductive traits in the phylogeographic pattern of the species are discussed.