bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Affiliate Stigma and Its Predictors in Parents of Children With Autism in the Early Post‐diagnosis Phase
Authors: Wei Yao , Ji Yan , Chen Miaoying , Deng Tao , Liu Shaofei , Dai Yushen , Zhang Lifeng
Published: February 2025

Background

Affiliated stigma refers to internalized stigma among family members of stigmatized individuals. Affiliate stigma experienced by parents of children with autism plays a vital role in both the child's rehabilitation and the parents' well‐being, whereas the affiliate stigma and its possible predictors need to be further examined.

Aims

The study aims to describe the characteristics of affiliate stigma experienced by parents of children with autism in the early post‐diagnosis period and to explore its predictors.

Methods

The study was conducted from September 2020 to March 2022 in Guangzhou, China. Participants included 116 parents of children newly diagnosed with autism who completed baseline self‐report measures of affiliate stigma (Affiliate Stigma Scale [ASS]), coping style (Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire [SCSQ]) and social support (Social Support Rating Scale [SSRS]) at the initial diagnosis (T1) and 1‐year follow‐up (T2). Autism features were assessed by parents using the Autism Behavior Checklist at T1. Generalized estimating equations were used to identify the key predictors of affiliate stigma.

Results

Scores for parental affiliate stigma were 43.4 ± 13.7 at the initial diagnosis and 44.7 ± 15.9 one year later. Parents of children with siblings or co‐occurring conditions experienced higher levels of affiliate stigma, and negative coping styles and lower levels of subjective support predicted higher affiliate stigma during the first year after autism diagnosis.

Conclusions

Parents experienced moderate and stable affiliate stigma during the first year after their children's autism diagnosis, especially those with children who have siblings or co‐occurring conditions and thus need additional support. Interventions should be focused on reducing negative coping and providing more subjective social support.
Barriers and Facilitators of Home Programmes in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review and a Metasynthesis
Authors: Medina‐Valera Mª. Inmaculada , Fernández‐Del Olmo Aarón , Pinero‐Pinto Elena
Published: February 2025

Introduction

One of the treatments with the greater scientific support for children with cerebral palsy (CP) are home programmes (HP). However, its implementation may be complex in some cases. A systematic review was conducted to explore the existing literature on the following question: What are the barriers and facilitators to implementing HP for children with CP?

Material and Methods

The articles were extracted from the Web of Science (WoS), Scopus, ERIC, PubMed and CINAHL databases. Inclusion criteria: articles based on therapies conducted at home, for children with CP aged 0–8 years and their families, published in English and Spanish. Exclusion criteria: reviews, studies of cases and controls and one‐case studies. The risk of bias was assessed through Cochrane tools Risk of Bias (RoB) I, RoB 2 and RoB E.

Results

Twenty‐one articles were selected from a total of 1.336, with 523 families and professionals. A qualitative research was carried out through content analysis using inductive coding and subsequent analytical categorization within an interpretative paradigm. Six themes were obtained: participation, personal cost and social support, family impact, training, professional role and efficacy. The quantitative results were analysed descriptively. They address HP research in a superficial manner.

Conclusions

Barriers: lack of time or availability to attend to the children one by one, poor economic and social support networks and sensitive emotional situation. Facilitators: training, adapted treatment objectives, activities within the daily routine and fluid family‐professional communication. Limitation: Only one article could be found that analysed family variables, considering the possible confounding variables. There is no funding source for this review. Registered in PROSPERO with code number: CRD42023477735.
NLRP1 Is a Prominent Inflammasome Sensor Found in Bronchial Epithelial Cells in Asthma and Can Be Activated by Rhinovirus A16
Authors: Laanesoo Anet , Mäe Mariel , Remm Anu , Johnston Sebastian L. , Altraja Alan , Bochenek Grazyna , Jakiela Bogdan , Rebane Ana
Published: February 2025

Background

Asthma exacerbations are frequently triggered by human rhinoviruses (RVs). Among other pro‐inflammatory responses, RV infection of airway epithelium promotes the activation of the inflammasome pathway, the role of which in asthma exacerbations and disease progression is still poorly understood.

Methods

Bronchial brushing or biopsy specimens were collected from asthma patients and control subjects. Functional experiments were performed in cultured human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs) using RV‐A16, poly(I:C), and siRNA transfection. Gene expression was analysed by RNA‐sequencing, RT‐qPCR, immunofluorescence, western blot or ELISA. Caspase‐1 activity was evaluated using FAM‐FLICA assay.

Results

The expression of NLRP1 was found to be the highest compared to other inflammasome sensors tested in brushed bronchial epithelium samples from asthma patients and control individuals, as well as in cultured primary HBECs. Additionally, we observed increased expression of CASP1 mRNA in bronchial epithelial cells from patients with neutrophilic asthma compared to those with paucigranulocytic and eosinophilic phenotypes. Changes in the expression of inflammasome pathway genes caused by RV‐A16 infection were similar in HBEC cultures from asthma patients and controls, except for IL‐1β, which showed increased response, and PYCARD, which exhibited decreased change in cells derived from asthma patients. Silencing of NLRP1 expression with siRNAs impeded RV‐A16‐induced activation of the inflammasome but had no effect on poly(I:C)‐induced secretion of IL‐1β and IL‐18.

Conclusion

NLRP1 is highly expressed inflammasome sensor in both healthy and asthmatic bronchial epithelium and can be activated by RV‐A16. RV‐induced changes in the expression of inflammasome pathway genes suggest that there may be differences in HBECs derived from asthma patients, which may depend on the prevailing immunological phenotype of the disease.
Clinical Practice Recommendations on the Effect of COVID‐19 Vaccination Strategies on Outcomes in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Foroutan Farid , Rayner Daniel G , Oss Shelly , Straccia Marco , de Vries Rienk , Raju Shilpa , Ahmed Farhin , Kingdon Jennifer , Bhagra Sai , Tarani Shafrina , Herrera Sabina , Bhanji Rahima , Ross Heather , Pruett Timothy , Feng Sandy , Pereira Marcus , Rotstein Coleman , Guyatt Gordon , Aleksova Natasha
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients were excluded from clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of COVID‐19 vaccines. There is uncertainty about the number of doses required to prevent life‐threatening infection, as well as uncertainty in the optimal vaccine type and their durability. Our objectives were to provide recommendations on the number of COVID‐19 vaccination doses, type of vaccine, dose of vaccine administered, and timing of vaccination in SOT recipients.

Methods

We commissioned a systematic review on COVID‐19 vaccination in SOT, focusing on patient‐important outcomes. We recruited an international, multidisciplinary panel of 18 stakeholders, including patient partners to summarize our findings using the GRADE (grading of recommendation, assessment, development, and evaluation) framework, rate certainty in the evidence, and develop recommendations.

Results

Our panel recommends the routine provision of additional COVID‐19 doses after the primary series to SOT recipients with variant‐appropriate vaccines (strong recommendation, low certainty evidence). We suggest using any available WHO‐approved vaccine rather than selectively choosing a specific type and receiving a single dose rather than a double dose of any COVID‐19 vaccine booster (weak recommendation, low certainty evidence). Lastly, we suggest vaccination before transplantation when possible (weak recommendation, low certainty evidence).

Conclusion

The evidence used to guide these recommendations is limited by the paucity of robust randomized trials evaluating COVID‐19 vaccination strategies and clinical outcomes in the SOT population. The provision of higher‐quality evidence of the overall effects of COVID‐19 vaccination in SOT to inform clinical practice will require large, randomized trials.
A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Low Dose Radiation Therapy for COVID‐19 Pneumonia: Learnings of 4 Years Since Pandemic
Authors: Yadav Usha , Sapra Balvinder Kaur
Published: February 2025

COVID‐19 caused a worldwide pandemic resulting in break of demand–supply chain in all aspects of healthcare, high mortality rates, and a constant quest for effective treatment modalities. Based on historical and recent evidences of anti‐inflammatory effects of low dose of ionizing radiation, several healthcare professionals proposed low‐dose radiation therapy (LDRT) along with ongoing pharmacological treatment for COVID‐19 pneumonia. A positive response in a few initial studies led to systematic trials by increasing the number of patients in the range of 0.5–1.5 Gy. However, the concerns of radiation‐induced risks were also raised in parallel. In the present article, we have highlighted the basis of LDRT for COVID‐19 therapy. We have reviewed the available literature, specifically for outcomes on various clinical trials carried out with LDRT. Meta‐analysis was performed to identify if any survival benefits are offered by addition of LDRT over pharmacological treatment alone among COVID‐19 pneumonia patients. Other clinical recovery parameters such as intubation rates, oxygenation status, anti‐inflammatory response have also been compared. Overall data trends favored LDRT with standard pharmacological treatment against control cohort which received standard treatment alone at all the endpoints in majority studies. LDRT addition resulted in significantly higher odds of survival than control cohort. Among critical and/or mechanically ventilated patients, LDRT did not show any promising outcomes over the control group. In conclusion, LDRT may serve as a promising complementary treatment modality with a potential of better prognosis, provided the patient selection criteria are critically identified and implemented.
The Role and Challenges of Investigator‐Initiated Trials in the Cell and Gene Therapy Products Boom in Mainland China
Authors: Yang Yifan , Bian Lianlian , Cheng Yuan , Xu Yan , Shao Hui , Rao Jian , Ge Sixiang , Gong Jifang , Jiang Min , Zheng Xiaoyu , Liu Lijun , Ma Shihui , Liu Xuan , Cheng Tao , Gao Chenyan
Published: February 2025

As cutting‐edge technologies in biomedicine, cell and gene therapy (CGT) products demonstrate immense potential in treating cancer, rare diseases, and genetic disorders, thereby driving the importance of clinical research in this area. This study analyzes the growth trends and key characteristics of 1033 Investigator‐Initiated Trials (IITs) conducted by mainland Chinese institutions in the CGT field. The results show that IITs have played a positive role in the early proof‐of‐concept of CGT products, helping to obtain preliminary safety and efficacy data, and exploring the combination of CGT products with other therapies. Additionally, this study discusses the regional distribution, therapeutic areas, and challenges faced by IITs in the development of CGT products in China. Based on these findings, policy suggestions are proposed to optimize the regulation of IITs in mainland China, such as improving regulatory frameworks and enhancing technical guidance. It is hoped that these measures will further improve the efficiency and quality of IITs, fully utilize the large patient base and abundant clinical resources, and support the development of high‐quality CGT products in mainland China.
Ranibizumab with luseogliflozin in type 2 diabetes with diabetic macular oedema: A randomised clinical trial
Authors: Ishibashi Ryoichi , Takatsuna Yoko , Koshizaka Masaya , Tatsumi Tomoaki , Takahashi Sho , Nagashima Kengo , Ishikawa Ko , Kaiho Tomomi , Asaumi Noriko , Baba Takayuki , Yamamoto Shuichi , Yokote Koutaro ,   The COMET Trial investigators
Published: February 2025

Aims

Anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy is the standard treatment for diabetic macular oedema (DMO); however, unmet needs remain. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in treating DMO.

Materials and Methods

This multicentre randomised open‐label trial included 60 patients with DMO who were eligible for anti‐VEGF therapy. Patients were randomised to receive luseogliflozin or glimepiride. Ranibizumab was administered initially to the target eye, with additional doses per protocol. The number of ranibizumab doses up to week 48, and re‐admission rates were evaluated. Fellow eye injections were also assessed.

Results

Sixty participants, mostly with diabetic retinopathy and half previously treated with anti‐VEGF therapy, were included. SGLT2i and sulfonylurea (SU) groups achieved equivalent glycated haemoglobin, central retinal thickness (CRT), and best‐corrected visual acuity improvements. Injection frequency for the target eye was similar between groups (SGLT2i vs. SU: 3.9 ± 0.7 vs. 4.7 ± 0.7 times, p = 0.36). Re‐administration rates were decreased significantly after the fourth injection in the SGLT2i group (p = 0.030, hazard ratio: 0.45, 95% confidence interval: 0.22–0.92). Fellow eyes in the SGLT2i group showed significant CRT reduction and fewer injections compared with those in the SU group (1.3 ± 0.6 vs. 3.4 ± 0.8, p = 0.016).

Conclusions

Although the overall number of anti‐VEGF injections in the target eye showed no significant difference, some patients responded favourably to SGLT2i and required fewer injections. The reduction in fellow eye injections suggests SGLT2i's efficacy in treating early‐stage DMO.

Trial Registration

University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry (UMIN000033961); Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCTs031180210).
Impact of the Medicaid expansions on heart disease mortality in the United States: A county‐level analysis
Authors: King Grady , Palanki Srinivas
Published: February 2025

Despite the significant changes that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has made to the US healthcare system since 2010, little statistical analysis of its impact on the deadliest chronic diseases has been made. County‐level data from the United States is used in conjunction with difference‐in‐difference models to isolate the effect of the Affordable Care Act on preventable deaths due to heart disease. Our national causal inference analysis found a significant decrease of preventable heart disease mortality due to the Medicaid expansions.
Can machine learning reduce volatility in electricity markets? Lessons from the economic calculation debate
Authors: Oğuz Fuat , Peker Mustafa Çağrı
Published: February 2025

The knowledge problem and volatility in electricity markets have long been central to policy debates in energy markets. This study examines the successes and limitations of machine learning in addressing these issues, contributing to the existing literature. Machine learning has shown promise in tackling specific technical aspects of power markets, but its shortcomings in forecasting customer behaviour and managing decentralised, renewable‐driven systems highlight the need for further refinement. While machine learning offers potential in reducing certain aspects of market volatility, it is not a comprehensive solution to the broader challenges faced by the electricity market.
Statin treatment reduces protein carbonylation in patients with COPD: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Kruk Aleksandra , Ząbczyk Michał , Natorska Joanna , Undas Anetta
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Protein carbonyl (PC) content, a stable marker of oxidative stress, is increased in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and shows association with cardiovascular events. We investigated prothrombotic effects of increased PC content and its modulation by statin use in COPD.

Materials and Methods

We studied 56 patients with stable COPD, who were randomly assigned in an open‐label manner to receive simvastatin 40 mg/day (n = 28) or to remain without statin for 3 months (n = 28). Plasma PC levels, along with thrombin generation, fibrin polymerization, clot permeability (Ks), compaction and global fibrinolysis (t50%) were assessed at baseline, at 1 and 3 months.

Results

PC concentration was 4.01 (min 2.20, max 5.43) nM/mg protein and correlated with age (r =.34, p =.0093) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) (r =.43, p =.0009). PC was inversely associated with maximum clot absorbance (r = −.27, p =.046) and Ks (r = −.44, p =.0008), but not fibrinolysis or thrombin generation. On statin, PC concentration decreased by 15% after 1 month and by 33% after 3 months compared to baseline, leading to 28.5% lower levels than in controls (p =.0003), with no association with low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol or CRP. At 3 months PC showed associations with favourably modified on‐treatment Ks (r = −.51, p =.005) and t50% (r =.53, p =.004), but not with lipid profile or inflammation.

Conclusions

This study shows that 3‐month simvastatin therapy in COPD patients results in about 30% decrease in PC concentrations, at least in part associated with favourable changes in fibrin clot parameters.
Client Perspectives on Addressing Intimacy, Romance and Sexuality in Early Psychosis Intervention Programmes
Authors: Woolridge Stephanie M. , Wilkinson Emma , Hau Isabelle , Stewart Chloe A. , Edirisinghe Savie , Aidelbaum Robert , Best Michael W. , Bowie Christopher R.
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study investigated the perspectives of clients in early psychosis intervention programmes regarding the types, quality and relevance of information they desire and receive, particularly related to intimacy, romance and sexuality.

Methods

Participants (N = 35) rated the degree to which they desired and received information on topics related to treatment and recovery, as well as the quality and importance of that information.

Results

Between 25% and 50% of participants desired information on friendships, sexual functioning, sexual desire, sexual risk factors and romantic relationships. Less than half of participants who wanted information on romantic relationships, friendships, sexual desire and sexual functioning received this information. When this information was provided, however, participants reported it to be of high quality.

Conclusions

Findings demonstrate that intimacy, romance and sexuality remain areas of need that are relevant to recovery for people with psychosis, yet they continue to be insufficiently addressed in healthcare settings.
Perceived Multisensory Common Cause Relations Shape the Ventriloquism Effect but Only Marginally the Trial‐Wise Aftereffect
Authors: Kayser Christoph , Heuer Herbert
Published: February 2025

Combining multisensory cues is fundamental for perception and action and reflected by two frequently studied phenomena: multisensory integration and sensory recalibration. In the context of audio‐visual spatial signals, these phenomena are exemplified by the ventriloquism effect and its aftereffect. The ventriloquism effect occurs when the perceived location of a sound is biased by a concurrent visual stimulus, while the aftereffect manifests as a recalibration of perceived sound location after exposure to spatially discrepant stimuli. The relationship between these processes—whether recalibration is a direct consequence of integration or operates independently—remains debated. We investigate the role of causal inference in these processes by examining whether trial‐wise judgements about a common‐cause underlying audio‐visual stimuli influence both the ventriloquism effect and the immediate aftereffect. In a spatial paradigm, participants made explicit judgements about the common cause of stimulus pairs, and their influence on both perceptual biases was assessed. Results obtained across two experiments indicate that while multisensory integration is contingent on common cause judgements, the immediate recalibration effect is not. This suggests that recalibration can occur independently of the perceived commonality of the multisensory stimuli, challenging the notion that recalibration is solely a by‐product of integration.
Influences of Welding Techniques on Fatigue Behaviors of Thick‐Walled Cylinders of 30CrMnSiNi2A Steel
Authors: Long Jian , Zhang Lin‐Jie , Xie Miao‐Xia , Na Suck Joo
Published: February 2025

30CrMnSiNi2A steel has been widely used to manufacture airplane structural parts. The fatigue behaviors of weld metals (WMs) of electron beam welding (EBW) joints and shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) joints (hereinafter shorted as EBW‐WM and SMAW‐WM, respectively) of 26‐mm‐thick 30CrMnSiNi2A ultrahigh‐strength steel were compared. The fatigue behavior of the EBW‐WM is obviously superior to that of the SMAW‐WM. Microstructures and microdefects are important causes for the great difference between WMs of the two types of joints in term of the fatigue behaviors. Microstructures in the EBW‐WM are similar to those in the BM, both containing a large amount of lath martensite. However, martensite is not found in the SMAW‐WM; instead, blocky ferrite and nonmetallic inclusions are present in the SMAW‐WM. The research findings provide data support for the updating and upgrading of welding techniques of 30CrMnSiNi2A thick‐walled cylinders.
Serum pro‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐6 level is predictive of further decompensation and mortality in liver cirrhosis
Authors: Ikeda Yuji , Nago Hiroki , Yamaguchi Masahiro , Om Rihwa , Terai Yuichiro , Kita Yuji , Sato Sho , Murata Ayato , Sato Shunsuke , Shimada Yuji , Nagahara Akihito , Genda Takuya
Published: February 2025

Aim

Systemic inflammation drives the progression of portal hypertension in patients with liver cirrhosis. Interleukin‐6 is a key mediator of the cytokine network in acute inflammation that stimulates the production of many acute phase reactants. In this study, we investigated the association between serum interleukin‐6 and acute phase reactant levels and the disease stage and prognosis of patients with liver cirrhosis.

Methods

A single‐center retrospective cohort of 359 patients with liver cirrhosis was staged according to the symptomatic decompensation. Baseline serum C‐reactive protein , interleukin‐6, procalcitonin, and serum amyloid A protein levels were measured. The outcomes of further decompensation, hepatocellular carcinoma development, and mortality were identified during a 3.3‐year median follow‐up period.

Results

Serum C‐reactive protein , interleukin‐6, and procalcitonin levels were significantly different across the stages. The multivariate Cox proportional hazards model identified serum interleukin‐6 as an independent predictor of further decompensation in patients with compensated and the first single decompensated cirrhosis. Kaplan–Meier analyses showed that the probability of further decompensation was stratified by serum interleukin‐6 level in a dose‐dependent manner. In the entire cohort, serum interleukin‐6 level also showed a significant association with liver‐related and all‐cause mortalities, but not with hepatocellular carcinoma development, independent of stage and liver disease severity indices.

Conclusions

Elevated levels of serum markers of systemic inflammation were associated with symptomatic decompensation, and serum interleukin‐6 level is a predictor of further decompensation and mortality in patients with liver cirrhosis.
Non‐Uniform Stress Field of the Forearc Region in Middle Miocene Southwestern Japan Inferred From the Orientations of Clastic Dikes and Mineral Veins in the Tanabe Group
Authors: Abe Noriaki , Sato Katsushi
Published: February 2025

The Middle Miocene was a period of tectonic transition in the southwest Japan arc. The cessation of backarc spreading at 15 Ma has been thought to have caused a pronounced change in the overall stress state from tension to compression in the arc‐perpendicular direction. However, the spatial variation in stress throughout the arc, especially in the forearc, which reflects the characteristics of plate subduction, has yet to be delineated. This study investigates the stress field of the forearc region and its temporal change by applying a stress tensor inversion technique to outcrop‐scale dilatant fractures. We measured the attitudes of clastic dikes and mineral veins in the Lower–Middle Miocene Tanabe Group, the paleo‐forearc basin deposits in the southwestern Kii Peninsula. Results of paleostress analyses show that the Tanabe Group was influenced by (i) stress with an E–W minimum compressional axis before 15 Ma and (ii) stress with a NW–SE maximum horizontal compressional axis after 15 Ma. In contrast to conventional interpretations, we find that the former stress differed from arc‐perpendicular tension in the backarc region before 16 Ma. The latter stress differed from trench‐parallel tension on the southernmost Kii Peninsula. Such spatial non‐uniformity of the forearc stress can be explained by the occurrence of a dynamic backstop, such as a landward area of the out‐of‐sequence thrust, beneath the Tanabe Group.
The Nexus of Identity, Emotions, and Agency in Virtual Exchanges Between Pre‐Service Teachers From Türkiye and the United States
Authors: Uştuk Özgehan , Yazan Bedrettin , Uzum Baburhan , Akayoglu Sedat , Keleş Ufuk
Published: February 2025

This study draws on data gleaned from multimodal identity tasks in an eight‐week telecollaboration project involving 120 pre‐service teachers from two teacher education programs in Türkiye and the United States. The authors explore what emotions teachers expressed during their participation in telecollaboration and how their emotions intersected with their teacher agency and identity construction. The intersectionality of language teachers’ identities and teachers’ emotions as agency informed the study's conceptual framework. Utilizing multimodal critical discourse analysis, the authors found that pre‐service teachers asserted projective agency by expressing emotions through multimodal and narrative identity tasks. The findings showed that the pre‐service teachers’ identity work was influenced by ecologically contextualized psycho‐emotional circumstances throughout the project. Underscoring that teacher identity work cannot be conceptualized without attending to teachers’ emotions and agency, the authors argue that when intentionally integrated into teacher education courses, identity tasks open experiential dimensions for pre‐service teachers to engage in agentive and emotionally laden identity work. The study contributes to language teacher education research, highlighting the supranational, multicultural, and multilingual nature of the pre‐service teachers' interactions while engaging in online synchronous and asynchronous activities.
Assessing the Health Implications of UV/LED Nail Lamp Radiation Exposure During Manicure and Pedicure Procedures: A Scoping Review
Authors: Beylin Dmitry , Kornhaber Rachel , Le Lagadec Danielle , Cleary Michelle
Published: February 2025

Skin malignancies associated with radiation exposure, notably malignant melanoma and keratinocyte carcinoma, are emerging as a significant global health challenge. While indoor tanning beds are associated with skin cancer risk, limited research exists on ultraviolet (UV)/light‐emitting diode (LED) nail lamps used widely in manicures/pedicures. This scoping review aimed to synthesize evidence on the health effects of UV/LED nail lamp exposure during manicures/pedicures. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL identified 17 articles, including 12 studies and 5 case reports meeting eligibility criteria published in English from inception to January 2024. Several studies characterized emitted spectra and measured irradiances from commercial lamps, finding predominantly UVA emissions that complied with safety guidelines when correctly used. However, higher exposures exceeding safety limits were also observed. In vitro evidence demonstrated that UV nail lamps potentially induce DNA damage consistent with carcinogenesis. Case reports described squamous cell carcinoma and actinic keratosis restricted to the hands of patients with histories of extensive UV nail lamp exposure. While studies suggested that the cancer risks from typical use are acceptably low, there is room for improvement. Measurements have shown that the doses of UV emission vary across different lamps yet remain low. Surveys have revealed a need for more consumer awareness regarding these risks. Current evidence is insufficient to support the mandatory implementation of protective measures such as gloves or sunscreen during UV nail lamp exposure. More importantly, a direct causal link between UV nail lamps and carcinoma development has not been conclusively established.
Teaching contributions of senior clinicians in a Basic Physician Trainee training programme
Authors: Holdsworth Rhiannon L. , Petropoulos Harry , Spies Michael C.
Published: February 2025

Education of Basic Physician Trainees (BPTs) in preparation for their Royal Australasian College of Physician Divisional Examinations requires time contribution by senior medical staff towards formal teaching activities. This study, conducted at a major metropolitan teaching hospital, sought to quantify the time commitment of senior medical staff towards teaching of BPTs in one clinical year, as well as the perceptions of those staff regarding time commitments through anonymous questionnaire. Senior medical staff involved in formal teaching activities provided a mean of 10 h; questionnaire respondents indicated a mean contribution of 20 h. This study highlights the significant time contribution of senior medical staff to formal teaching activities for BPTs, as well as identifies possible unmeasured teaching contributions.
Waterlogging Does Not Have a Lasting Impact on Yield Performance and Micronutrient Status of Oat (Avena sativa)
Authors: Pitann Britta , Hoppenheit Timo , Mühling Karl H.
Published: February 2025

Waterlogging increasingly threatens global crop production, particularly affecting major crops like wheat, barley, and maize at all growth stages. Although research on oat tolerance to waterlogging is limited, there is evidence that oat may be a suitable alternative crop due to its resilience and ability to maintain yields despite nutrient imbalances caused by waterlogging. However, it remains uncertain how oat responds to changes in soil micronutrient availability during periods of waterlogging. Therefore, this study aims to investigate whether (1) micronutrient toxicities or deficiencies are induced during waterlogging, (2) the timing of the flooding event is relevant for the expression of a possible nutrient imbalance, and (3) micronutrient toxicities/deficiencies affect yield performance. In order not to exclude possible varietal differences, three oat varieties were grown in large‐scale containers and exposed to 14 days of waterlogging at either BBCH 31 or BBCH 51. Although early but not late waterlogging was effective in reducing dry weights, especially in white oat, yield performance, as reflected by the harvest index, was not affected at all. While early waterlogging increased Mn and Fe concentrations in all oat varieties, they were well below toxic level. In contrast, Cu concentrations in white oat dropped below the deficiency threshold levels. Zinc status, however, remained completely unaffected in all oat varieties. After late waterlogging, only Mn accumulated to concentration in the toxicity range, but only in white and yellow oat; all other micronutrients remained in a sufficient range From these results we conclude, that although micronutrient imbalances occurred under waterlogging regardless from its timing, which may explain the transient reduction in dry weight of white oat, the yield of all tested oat varieties was ultimately unaffected. It can therefore be assumed that at least the oat varieties tested have a high regeneration potential and also show a high tolerance to transient micronutrient imbalances.
Increased Life Expectancy of People With Profound Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities: What Does It Change for Parents?
Authors: Baumstarck Karine , Del Duca Sibylle , El Ouazzani Houria , Hamouda Ilyes , Beltran Anzola Any , Aim Marie‐Anastasie , Rousseau Marie‐Christine
Published: February 2025

Background

Advancements in medicine have increased the life expectancy of the people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities. The hypothesis is that as parents get older, they worry about no longer being there for their child. This paper explores the extent to which the experiences of older parents may differ from that of younger parents.

Method

The participants were parents of people included in the French EVAL‐PLH cohort. Psychological status, quality of life and coping were compared between (i) parents of the youngest persons (< 20 years) versus parents of the oldest persons (≥ 35 years); (ii) youngest (< 45 years) versus oldest parents (≥ 55 years).

Results

Compared with the youngest parents, the oldest parents did not differ in anxiety–mood disorders, quality of life or coping strategies used.

Conclusion

We did not confirm that ageing generates psychological changes for parents. Future qualitative studies should deeply examine this underexplored issue.

Trial Registration: Clinical trial number: NCT02400528
Pelagic distribution and night foraging of early juvenile European catfish (Silurus glanisL.)
Authors: Sajdlová Zuzana , Jůza Tomáš , Blabolil Petr , Draštík Vladislav , Čech Martin
Published: February 2025

This study provides evidence of pelagic occurrence and night feeding in early juvenile European catfish that contributed 0.2% to the early juvenile pelagic community at night in Klíčava, 0.3% in Římov, and 3.3% in Žlutice Reservoirs in the Czech Republic. The catfish occurred mostly at a depth of 2–4 m. Their abundance was 5.5 inds.1000 m−3 in Klíčava Reservoir (2018), 0.3 inds.1000 m−3 in Římov Reservoir (2018), and 88.8 inds.1000 m−3 in Žlutice Reservoir (2019). Catfish fed on phantom midges (Chaoborus sp.).
Socio‐Demographic Determinants of Mediterranean Diet Adherence: Results of the EU‐National Health Interview Survey (EHIS‐3)
Authors: Kontele Ioanna , Panagiotakos Demosthenes , Yannakoulia Mary , Vassilakou Tonia
Published: February 2025

Background

Despite the well‐known benefits of the Mediterranean diet (MD), low adherence is observed globally, highlighting the need to investigate the underlying causes of this trend. Large‐scale, periodically repeated surveys, such as the European Health Interview Survey (EHIS), could be useful for the investigation of the factors that influence adherence to healthy dietary patterns. National EHIS‐3 in Greece was designed to collect data on the consumption of all food groups, making it possible to determine adherence to MD.

Methodology

This study aimed to investigate the socioeconomic factors that influence MD adherence by conducting a secondary data analysis from 7706 participants aged 15–85 years who participated in the 2019 national EHIS. MD adherence was evaluated by MedDietScore. Bivariate comparisons between the score tertiles and socioeconomic groups were performed. Logistic regression analyses were used to estimate the association between MedDietScore tertiles and demographic and socioeconomic factors, using high adherence as the reference category. Finally, cluster analysis was applied to identify the most significant factors in relation to the classification of the participants in MD adherence groups.

Results

Educational level, followed by income status, emerged as the most significant factor associated with adherence to MD. Individuals who have attained only primary education had a 3.80 times higher likelihood of presenting low MD adherence instead of high MD adherence compared to persons with tertiary education. Individuals in the lower income group had 2.53 times higher odds of being in the low MD adherence instead of high MD adherence than individuals in the higher income group. These relationships remained statistically significant after adjusting for confounding factors. The group that most frequently adhered to high MD (53.4%) comprised individuals who had tertiary education, higher income, and were couples without children. Conversely, those with primary or secondary education who are single parents or live in one‐person households and fall into the lower and medium income groups are most likely to have low MD adherence (44.8%).

Conclusions

Public policies to promote MD adherence should consider socioeconomic factors. Integrating questions to evaluate adherence to dietary patterns into EHIS would allow for future intercountry and longitudinal comparisons.
DBB2 regulates plant height and shade avoidance responses in maize
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Jiao Zihao , Zhang Yonghui , Shi Qingbiao , Wang Qibin , Zhou Fengli , Xu Di , Wang Guodong , Kong Fanying , Zhang Haisen , Li Pinghua , Wang Haiyang , Li Gang
Published: February 2025

Increasing plant density has been recognized as an effective strategy for boosting maize yields over the past few decades. However, dense planting significantly reduces the internal light intensity and the red to far‐red (R:FR) light ratio in the canopy, which subsequently triggers shade avoidance responses (SAR) that limit further yield enhancements, particularly under high‐density conditions. In this study, we identified double B‐box containing protein DBB2, a member of the ZmBBX family that is rapidly induced by shade, as a crucial regulator of plant height and SAR. Disruption of DBB2 resulted in shorter internodes, reduced plant height, decreased cell elongation, and diminished sensitivity to shade in maize, effects that can be largely alleviated by external treatment with gibberellins (GA). Furthermore, we discovered that DBB2 physically interacted with the transcription factor HY5, inhibiting its transcriptional activation of ZmGA2ox4, a gene encoding a GA2 oxidase that can deactivate GA. This interaction positively influences maize plant height through the GA pathway. Additionally, we found that the induction of ZmDBB2 by shade is mediated by the transcription factor PIF4. Interestingly, DBB2 then interacted with PIF4 to enhance the transcriptional activation of cell elongation‐related genes, such as ZmEXPA1, thereby establishing a positive feedback loop promoting cell elongation under canopy shade conditions. Our findings highlight the critical role of BBX proteins in modulating plant height and SAR, presenting them as key genetic targets for developing maize varieties suited to high‐density planting conditions. This study also provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying SAR and offers potential strategies for the genetic improvement of maize plant architecture and grain yield.
SMALL AND ROUND GRAIN is involved in the brassinosteroid signaling pathway which regulates grain size in rice
Authors: Miao Rong , Lin Qibing , Cao Penghui , Zhou Chunlei , Feng Miao , Lan Jie , Luo Sheng , Zhang Fulin , Wu Hongmin , Hao Qixian , Zheng Hai , Ma Tengfei , Huang Yunshuai , Mou Changling , Nguyen Thanhliem , Cheng Zhijun , Guo Xiuping , Liu Shijia , Jiang Ling , Wan Jianmin
Published: February 2025

Grain size is a key determinant of 1,000‐grain weight, one of three factors determining grain yield. However, the complete regulatory network controlling grain size has not been fully clarified. Here, we identified a rice mutant, named small and round grain (srg) that exhibits semi‐dwarf stature and small grain size. Cytological analysis showed that cell length and number of spikelet epidermal cells of the srg mutant are reduced, indicating that SRG controls grain size by promoting cell elongation and increasing cell number. SRG encodes a kinesin belonging to the kinesin‐1 subfamily and is extensively expressed in different plant tissues with relatively high expression in young panicles. SRG protein is mainly located in the nucleus and cell membrane. Expression of the SRG gene was induced by brassinolide through the brassinosteroid (BR) responsive factor OsWRKY53 and SRG protein was phosphorylated by BR‐activated kinase OsBSK3 to prevent its degradation. In addition, microtubule (MT) morphology was abnormal and disordered in the srg and cr‐1 mutants. These findings suggest that BR likely stabilizes orderly assembly and arrangement of MTs by stabilizing SRG proteins, thus promoting grain size. SRG overexpression lines produced more tillers and significantly larger and heavier grains to increase 1,000‐grain weight, suggesting that SRG has potential to increase grain yield. Our study indicated that SRG is a new BR responsive factor and BR might regulate grain size by influencing the expression of SRG.
Hunger Games: A Modern Battle Between Stress and Appetite
Authors: Smith Whitnei , Azevedo Estefania P.
Published: February 2025

Stress, an evolutionarily adaptive mechanism, has become a pervasive challenge in modern life, significantly impacting feeding‐relevant circuits that play a role in the development and pathogenesis of eating disorders (EDs). Stress activates the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, disrupts specific neural circuits, and dysregulates key brain regions, including the hypothalamus, hippocampus, and lateral septum. These particular structures are interconnected and key in integrating stress and feeding signals, modulating hunger, satiety, cognition, and emotional coping behaviors. Here we discuss the interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental factors that may exacerbate ED vulnerability. We also highlight the most commonly used animal models to study the mechanisms driving EDs and recent rodent studies that emphasize the discovery of novel cellular and molecular mechanisms integrating stress and feeding signals within the hippocampus–lateral septum–hypothalamus axis. In this review, we discuss the role of gut microbiome, an emerging area of research in the field of EDs and unanswered questions that persist and hinder the scientific progress, such as why some individuals remain resilient to stress while others become at high risk for the development of EDs. We finally discuss the need for future research delineating the impact of specific stressors on neural circuits, clarifying the relevance and functionality of hippocampal–septal–hypothalamic connectivity, and investigating the role of key neuropeptides such as CRH, oxytocin, and GLP‐1 in human ED pathogenesis. Emerging tools like single‐cell sequencing and advanced human imaging could uncover cellular and circuit‐level changes in brain areas relevant for feeding in ED patients. Ultimately, by integrating basic and clinical research, science offers promising avenues for developing personalized, mechanism‐based treatments targeting maladaptive eating behavior for patients suffering from EDs.

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Oxidative Stress Suppresses Trk Signaling While Stimulating JNK‐Mediated Endocytosis and Cleavage of p75NTR: A Targetable Pathway for Neuroprotection in a Parkinson's Disease Model
Authors: Pokharel Poshan V. , Newchurch Aaron M. , Overby Sunny C. , Spease Cassidy A. , Perkins Isaac T. , Darzi Lorelei G. , Ghimire Nabin , Lawan Ahmed , Kraemer Bradley R.
Published: February 2025

The p75 Neurotrophin Receptor (p75NTR) is a multifunctional transmembrane protein that mediates neuronal responses to pathological conditions in specific regions of the nervous system. In many biological contexts, p75NTR signaling is initiated through sequential cleavage of the receptor by α‐ and γ‐secretases, which releases receptor fragments for downstream signaling. Our previous research demonstrated that proteolytic processing of p75NTR in this manner is stimulated by oxidative stress in Lund Human Mesencephalic (LUHMES) cells, a dopaminergic neuronal cell line derived from human mesencephalic tissue. Considering the vulnerability of dopaminergic neurons in the ventral mesencephalon to oxidative stress and neurodegeneration associated with Parkinson's disease (PD), we investigated the role of this signaling cascade in neurodegeneration and explored cellular processes that govern oxidative stress‐induced p75NTR signaling. In the present study, we provide evidence that oxidative stress induces cleavage of p75NTR by promoting c‐Jun N‐terminal Kinase (JNK)‐dependent internalization of p75NTR from the cell surface. This activation of p75NTR signaling is counteracted by tropomyosin‐related kinase (Trk) receptor signaling; however, oxidative stress leads to Trk receptor downregulation, thereby enhancing p75NTR processing. Importantly, we demonstrate that this pathway can be inhibited by LM11a‐31, a small molecule modulator of p75NTR, thereby conferring protection against neurodegeneration. Treatment with LM11a‐31 significantly reduced p75NTR cleavage and neuronal death associated with oxidative stress. These findings reveal novel mechanisms underlying activation of p75NTR in response to oxidative stress, underscore a key role for p75NTR in dopaminergic neurodegeneration, and highlight p75NTR as a potential therapeutic target for reducing neurodegeneration in PD.

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Nasal Reshaping Using Barbed Threads Combined With Hyaluronic Acid Filler and Botulinum Toxin A
Authors: Ziade G. , Saade R. , Daou D. , Karam D. , Bendito A. , Tsintsadze M.
Published: February 2025

Background

Rhinoplasty is a prominent procedure in facial aesthetics, but extended surgical downtime remains its significant limitation. Nonsurgical rhinoplasty has gained popularity as an alternative, offering significant aesthetic improvements with minimal downtime. This study evaluates the clinical efficacy and safety of three nonsurgical rhinoplasty techniques combined, including hyaluronic acid (HA) filler, botulinum toxin type A (BTX), and barbed lifting threads.

Methods

A total of 85 patients were included into three groups: 63 subjects received HA filler and BTX injections, 9 subjects received barbed threads followed by BTX injections, and 13 received threads followed by HA filler and BTX injections. Patients assessed their satisfaction 1 month and a year posttreatment as well as adverse effects 48 h and 1 week after treatment using FACE‐Q questionnaire for nose.

Results

Both 1 month and a year after treatment, the triple combination of barbed threads with HA filler and BTX demonstrated superior nose FACE‐Q scores compared to the two other groups, showing highest patient satisfaction and minimal efficacy decay over time. No significant difference in FACE‐Q scores was observed between the two groups receiving HA filler + BTX and barbed threads + BTX at either 1 month or a year posttreatment. Adverse effects were reported by subjects in all three groups 48 h posttreatment and completely resolved by 1 week after treatment.

Conclusion

Combining nonsurgical rhinoplasty techniques—such as lifting threads, HA fillers, and botulinum toxin—can deliver effective aesthetic improvements with minimal downtime. Among these, the triple combination of HA filler, BTX, and lifting threads results in the highest and most sustained patient satisfaction, lasting no less than 1 year.