bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eukaryotic MAGs recovered from deep metagenomic sequencing of the seagrass,Zostera marina,include a novel chytrid in the order Lobulomycetales
Authors: Ettinger Cassandra L. , Eisen Jonathan A. , Stajich Jason E.
Published: February 2025

Fungi play pivotal roles in terrestrial ecosystems as decomposers, pathogens, and endophytes, yet their significance in marine environments is often understudied. Seagrasses, as globally distributed marine flowering plants, have critical ecological functions, but knowledge about their associated fungal communities remains relatively limited. Previous amplicon surveys of the fungal community associated with the seagrass,Zostera marinahave revealed an abundance of potentially novel chytrids. In this study, we employed deep metagenomic sequencing to extract metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from these chytrids and other microbial eukaryotes associated withZ. marinaleaves. Our efforts resulted in the recovery of five eukaryotic MAGs, including a single fungal MAG in the order Loubulomycetales (65% BUSCO completeness), three MAGs representing diatoms in the family Bacillariaceae (93%, 70% and 31% BUSCO completeness) and a single MAG representing a haptophyte algae in the genusPrymnesium(40% BUSCO completeness). Whole-genome phylogenomic assessment of these MAGs suggests they all largely represent under sequenced, and possibly novel eukaryotic lineages. Of particular interest, the chytrid MAG was placed within the order Lobulomycetales, consistent with the identity of the dominant chytrid from previousZ. marinaamplicon survey results. Annotation of this MAG yielded 5,650 gene models of which 77% shared homology to current databases. With-in these gene models, we predicted 121 carbohydrate-active enzymes and 393 secreted proteins (103 cytoplasmic effectors, 30 apoplastic effectors). Exploration of orthologs between the Lobulomycetales MAG and existing Chytridiomycota genomes have revealed a landscape of high-copy gene families related to host recognition and interaction. Further machine learning analyses based on carbohydrate-active enzyme composition predict that this MAG is a symbiont. Overall, these five eukaryotic MAGs represent substantial genomic novelty and valuable community resources, contributing to a deeper understanding of the roles of fungi and other microbial eukaryotes in the larger seagrass ecosystem.
Hoi1 targets the yeast BLTP2 protein to ER-PM contact sites to regulate lipid homeostasis
Authors: Dziurdzik Samantha K. , Sridhar Vaishnavi , Eng Hailey , Neuman Sarah D. , Yan Junran , Davey Michael , Taubert Stefan , Bashirullah Arash , Conibear Elizabeth
Published: February 2025

Membrane contact sites between organelles are important for maintaining cellular lipid homeostasis. Members of the recently identified family of bridge-like lipid transfer proteins (BLTPs) span opposing membranes at these contact sites to enable the rapid transfer of bulk lipids between organelles. While the VPS13 and ATG2 family members use organelle-specific adaptors for membrane targeting, the mechanisms that regulate other bridge-like transporters remain unknown. Here, we identify the conserved protein Ybl086c, which we name Hoi1 (Hob interactor 1), as an adaptor that targets the yeast BLTP2-like proteins Fmp27/Hob1 and Hob2 to ER-PM contact sites. Two separate Hoi1 domains interface with alpha-helical projections that decorate the central hydrophobic channel on Fmp27, and loss of these interactions disrupts cellular sterol homeostasis. The mutant phenotypes of BLTP2 and HOI1 orthologs indicate these proteins act in a shared pathway in worms and flies. Together, this suggests that Hoi1-mediated recruitment of BLTP2-like proteins represents an evolutionarily conserved mechanism for regulating lipid transport at membrane contact sites.
Coarse-grained binning in Drell-Yan transverse momentum spectra
Authors: Zhan Wenxiao , Yang Siqi , Liu Minghui , Hautmann Francesco , Han Liang
Published: February 2025

We report a study of the determination of the intrinsic transverse momentum of partons, the intrinsic kT, from the dilepton transverse momentum pT in Drell-Yan (DY) production at hadron colliders. The result shows that a good sensitivity to the intrinsic kT distribution is achieved by measuring relative ratios between the cross sections of suitably defined low-pT and high-pT regions. The study is performed through both a pseudodata test and an extraction from measurements of the DY process by the CMS Collaboration. Since the methodology does not rely on any dedicated partition of bins, this pT-ratio observable requires less special treatment in very low pT regions and propagates lower systematic uncertainties induced from unfolding or momentum migration, in contrast with previous proposals of using a fine-binning measurement of the differential cross section.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Daily modulation of low-energy nuclear recoils from sub-GeV dark matter
Authors: Stratman Connor , Lin Tongyan
Published: February 2025

At sufficiently low nuclear recoil energy, the scattering of dark matter (DM) in crystals gives rise to single phonon and multiphonon excitations. In anisotropic crystals, the scattering rate into phonons modulates over each sidereal day as the crystal rotates with respect to the DM wind. This gives a potential avenue for directional detection of DM. The daily modulation for single phonons has previously been calculated. Here we calculate the daily modulation for multiphonon excitations from DM in the mass range 1 MeV–1 GeV. We generalize previous multiphonon calculations, which made an isotropic approximation, and implement results in the DarkELF package. We find daily modulation rates up to 1%–10% for an Al2O3 target and DM mass below 30 MeV, depending on the recoil energies probed. We obtain similar results for SiC, while modulation in Si, GaAs, and SiO2 is negligible.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Local order controls the onset of oscillations in the nonreciprocal Ising model
Authors: Blom Kristian , Thiele Uwe , Godec Aljaž
Published: February 2025

We elucidate the generic bifurcation behavior of local and global order in the nonreciprocal Ising model evolving under Glauber dynamics. We show that a critical magnitude of nearest-neighbor correlations within the respective lattices controls the emergence of coherent oscillations of global order as a result of frustration. Local order is maintained during these oscillations, implying nontrivial spatiotemporal correlations. Long-lived states emerge in the strong-interaction regime. The residence time in either of these states eventually diverges, giving rise to ordered nonequilibrium trapped states and a loss of ergodic behavior via a saddle-node-infinite-period bifurcation. Our work provides a comprehensive microscopic understanding of the nonreciprocal Ising model beyond the mean-field approximation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Nonequilibrium quantum battery based on quantum measurements
Authors: Du Jianying , Guo Yanjiang , Li Baowen
Published: February 2025

We propose and analyze the charging and discharging processes of measurement-assisted quant um batteries, exploring how different measurement schemes affect their performance. It is found that applying projective measurements with a general basis and optimizing the measurement parameters can enhance the battery's performance, including increases in both charging energy and ergotropy. Compared to local measurement schemes, the quantum battery exhibits significantly improved performance under nonlocal measurement schemes. However, this performance improvement comes at the cost of higher resource expenditure in nonlocal schemes. Additionally, the quantum battery can function as a quantum energy source, driving the qubit-resonator system to facilitate energy pumping. Our findings provide deeper insights into the fundamental properties of quantum batteries driven by quantum measurements, offering a pathway toward the design of more efficient and controllable quantum battery systems.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Analytical description of nanowires. III. Regular cross sections for Wurtzite structures. Corrigendum
Authors: König Dirk , Smith Sean C.
Published: February 2025

Corrections to the article by König & Smith [Acta Cryst. (2022), B78, 665–677] are given.
Expansion of the diversity of dispersin scaffolds
Authors: Males Alexandra , Moroz Olga V. , Blagova Elena , Munch Astrid , Hansen Gustav H. , Johansen Annette H. , Østergaard Lars H. , Segura Dorotea R. , Eddenden Alexander , Due Anne V. , Gudmand Martin , Salomon Jesper , Sørensen Sebastian R. , Franco Cairo João Paulo L. , Nitz Mark , Pache Roland A. , Vejborg Rebecca M. , Bhosale Sandeep , Vocadlo David J. , Davies Gideon J. , Wilson Keith S.
Published: February 2025

Microorganisms are known to secrete copious amounts of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) that form complex matrices around the cells to shield them against external stresses, to maintain structural integrity and to influence their environment. Many microorganisms also secrete enzymes that are capable of remodelling or degrading EPS in response to various environmental cues. One key enzyme class is the poly-β-1,6-linked N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (PNAG)-degrading glycoside hydrolases, of which the canonical member is dispersin B (DspB) from CAZy family GH20. We sought to test the hypothesis that PNAG-degrading enzymes would be present across family GH20, resulting in expansion of the sequence and structural space and thus the availability of PNAGases. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that several microorganisms contain potential DspB-like enzymes. Six of these were expressed and characterized, and four crystal structures were determined (two of which were in complex with the established GH20 inhibitor 6-acetamido-6-deoxy-castanospermine and one with a bespoke disaccharide β-1,6-linked thiazoline inhibitor). One enzyme expressed rather poorly, which restricted crystal screening and did not allow activity measurements. Using synthetic PNAG oligomers and MALDI-TOF analysis, two of the five enzymes tested showed preferential endo hydrolytic activity. Their sequences, having only 26% identity to the pioneer enzyme DspB, highlight the considerable array of previously unconsidered dispersins in nature, greatly expanding the range of potential dispersin backbones available for societal application and engineering
High-rise building density optimization for air quality improvement and investment potential
Authors: Vidanapathirana Malithie , Perera Narein , Emmanuel Rohinton , Coorey Shaleeni
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Air pollution and air quality are key environmental factors that impact an investor’s willingness to pay (WTP) and are negatively correlated. Hedonic pricing quantifies the relationship between air pollutants and property values but is a backward-looking tool. Similarly, limited research links investment potential to urban planning and air pollution. This research aims to predict variation in investor WTP due to air pollution concentrations within a high-dense high-rise building cluster.

Design/methodology/approach

Possible building configurations of Port City, Colombo, were modelled using Ansys Fluent. While maintaining the same Floor Area Ratio (FAR), building heights and volumes, the density of towers is changed by introducing wind corridors to enable pollutant dispersion. A trace pollutant is used as a comparative study to determine the effect of each building form on pollution concentration and potential WTP.

Findings

The introduction of wind corridors along the ambient wind direction increased building porosity, positively affecting WTP overall. Wind corridors perpendicular to the ambient wind reduced porosity, which reduced dispersion at upper levels, negatively affecting WTP.

Research limitations/implications

WTP is site-specific, and due to limited data for property values and volatility, the study was limited to a comparison study.

Practical implications

Varying building configurations affect pollutant dispersion at different heights. The findings of the study can refine investments based on air quality and natural ventilation requirements.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils a need to determine investment potential and air quality.
The influence mechanism of responsible leadership on sustainable reconfiguring in multi-tier supply chains
Authors: Zhou Ranran , Xu Jianzhong , Zhai Jiaqi , Kong Qingwei
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study examines how responsible leadership drives sustainable reconfiguring in multi-tier supply chains, addressing the recognized challenges of implementing sustainable practices in complex, global value chains, particularly in the face of the management challenges posed by the high complexity of multi-tier supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 475 Chinese manufacturing firms between December 2023 and June 2024. Structural equation modeling with maximum likelihood estimation was used to assess linear relationships, followed by least-squares linear regression to verify model robustness. Neural network modeling was then applied to explore potential nonlinear relationships among variables.

Findings

The study empirically confirms that responsible leadership was a direct driver of sustainable reconfiguring, and social capital partially mediated the relationship between responsible leadership and sustainable reconfiguring. In addition, it was found that in highly complex supply chains, responsible leadership has a more significant driving effect on sustainable reconfiguring, i.e. supply chain complexity positively moderates the relationship between responsible leadership and sustainable reconfiguring.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the field by uniquely examining responsible leadership as a driver of sustainable supply chain reconfiguration, highlighting its role in resource acquisition through social capital from a resource dependence perspective. Unlike prior studies that treat supply chain complexity primarily as a management obstacle, this research uncovers its role as a “demand driver” in sustainable reconfiguration, offering fresh insights into complexity’s strategic impact. This approach provides a novel framework for understanding the nuanced pathways through which leadership style and situational factors collectively shape sustainable practices in supply chains.
Exploring the role of positive emotions in leadership learning
Authors: Traini Haley , McKee Katherine , Smist Jennifer , Rosch David Michael
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This project represents an exploratory qualitative investigation of the connection between undergraduate students’ experiences of positive emotions in academic leadership courses and their self-reports of leadership learning.

Design/methodology/approach

Our research team conducted a qualitative analysis of 298 post-course survey comments from students in academic courses focused on leader development over three academic years. These surveys included prompts inviting students to report dominant emotions they repeatedly felt within the classroom environment and how these salient emotions helped or hindered their learning over the course of the semester.

Findings

Our results suggest a complex interplay between the ways students’ self-reported experience of positive emotions during a leadership class influenced their leadership learning and course engagement. Overall, student responses revealed positive emotions through their course engagement, with interest, joy and serenity/contentment being the most frequently reported positive emotions. Participants attributed these emotions to influencing their willingness to attend class, participate in class activities, deepen their learning about leadership topics and apply their leadership learning beyond the class.

Originality/value

Educational research has long shown that emotions are relevant to specific learning processes. However, this research has not yet been applied to leadership-focused classrooms. Our novel study focused on the connections between emotional reactions to leadership courses and student learning and was designed to help unlock the primary mechanisms by which young people learn to lead through formal academic coursework.
Grassroots innovations in agriculture innovation systems: insights into seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) in Ladakh, India
Authors: Kumar Hemant , Bhaduri Saradindu , Saikia Abhinandan , Ali Mohd , Sharma Gautam
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Agriculture innovation systems (AIS) examine the complex socio-technical and institutional aspects affecting sustainable agriculture. However, it is predominantly constrained to the formal sector activities in the high-income countries (HICs). The informal sector actors play a major role in the agricultural sector of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), such as India, by innovating and disseminating grassroots innovations (GI). This study aims to explore the role of different GI, both by the informal and formal sectors, within an emerging AIS focused on seabuckthorn in Ladakh, India.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a qualitative methodology, using semi-structured interviews and focused group discussions to gather data from the stakeholders involved in seabuckthorn value chain. The data was analysed using the AIS framework’sa priori themes and was validated through data triangulation with secondary sources.

Findings

This study reveals the existence of GI, by both the formal and informal sector actors, and their complex interaction within the seabuckthorn value chain. It highlights the importance of co-existence of these GI to make it a sustainable seabuckthorn AIS.

Practical implications

This study offers noteworthy perspectives for governments, policymakers and agricultural practitioners with respect to the assimilation of GI into AIS. These insights could help improve agricultural sustainability and viability, particularly in LMICs where the informal sector plays a significant role.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the first to explore the role of GI within AIS and opens up research avenues for further inquiry in both LMICs and HICs.
A Calvinist Bolthole? The Unusual Survival of Great Yarmouth's Dutch Congregation
Authors: BUCK DANNY
Published: February 2025

The case of Great Yarmouth's Dutch congregation exemplifies the complexity of the migrant experience in early modern Britain. It shows how a community of Dutch émigrés defined itself through its Calvinist faith, with the minister, congregation and chapel all playing central roles. Over the seventeenth century, the number of Dutch exiles and their descendants in Great Yarmouth dwindled, threatening the survival of their ministry and the community it sustained. It was the choice between separation from, or assimilation to, the English community that created a tension between the town's Dutch ministers, their congregation and the town's Puritan elite. The exceptional success of second‐ and third‐generation Dutch migrants in maintaining their community for over a century before the congregation's dissolution can be attributed to Great Yarmouth's unique economic circumstances as the main port for Dutch herring fishermen and a complex religious settlement that pitted Calvinist Presbyterians and Independents against conformist Anglicans.
Comparison of mechanical restraint use in a metropolitan ED after system change: A before and after analysis
Authors: La Barrass Jaislie , Mallows James L , Salter Mark D , Budek Megan
Published: February 2025

Background

Prior to 2020, Nepean ED had high rates of restraint of mental health (MH) patients compared to peer hospitals. Restraint can cause emotional and physical trauma to patients and staff and should be used as seldom as possible. The ED undertook a project to reduce the number and duration of restraint episodes, involving telepsychiatry, culture change, staff education, increasing use of sedation and bedside engagement in de‐escalation techniques.

Objectives

To compare the differences in mechanical restraint episodes between 2019 and 2021 calendar years, after a year of change implementation in 2020.

Method

A single‐centre retrospective cohort analysis of patients requiring mechanical restraint for MH complaints in 2019 and 2021 was conducted. Presentations of all MH patients were identified from the electronic medical record. Episodes of restraint were identified from the ED restraint register, and a file review of the electronic medical record was conducted to obtain data.

Results

In 2021, there was a 11.5% increase in total MH presentations (2705 vs 3056). There was a decrease in the proportion of MH patients experiencing restraint from 8.8% to 6.3% (difference 2.5%; 95% CI 1.1%–3.8%). Mean duration of restraint decreased from 385 to 229 min (difference 145; 95% CI 93.3–196.2) and use of sedation in restrained patients increased from 58.6% to 72.9% (difference 16%; 95% CI 6.8%–25.1%).

Conclusion

After a year of change implementation, there was a reduction in the use of restraints and an increase in the use of sedation in 2021 when compared to 2019.
Review article: Somatization Disorders in emergency department: A critical overview of current challenges and future directions
Authors: Garde Vidula , Churchill Meryl , Greenslade Jaimi , Watt Kerrianne , Mallett Andrew J , Morel Douglas
Published: February 2025

Individuals with Somatization Disorders present frequently to the ED with non‐cardiac chest pain, non‐specific abdominal pain, headaches and a range of other non‐specific symptoms. Somatization Disorder presentations are ubiquitous within the healthcare system. Seen as belonging to ‘no man's land’, these disorders, are often diagnosed and treated by different medical subspecialities. This characteristic of Somatization Disorders creates challenges regarding their diagnosis and management across emergency care settings. The current review explores the scope of the problem and, the challenges inherent in diagnosing and treating these disorders in ED environments. Based on available evidence and the essential character of these disorders, future directions are suggested for more effective emergency management and possible referral from ED.
Microbiome Literacy: Enhancing Public and Academic Understanding Through the ‘Microbiome & Health’ Online Course
Authors: Schweitzer Matthias , Wassermann Birgit , Abdelfattah Ahmed , Cernava Tomislav , Berg Gabriele
Published: February 2025

Microorganisms are fundamental to life on Earth, influencing biogeochemical processes, soil fertility, and the health of humans, animals and plants. Human activities have left a remarkable footprint on the environment, including global microbiomes. Enhancing awareness and improving education about microbiome functions can contribute to a sustainable economy and resilient systems. However, public understanding of microbiome science is hindered by misinformation and limited accessible educational resources. To address this, we developed the massive open online course (MOOC) ‘Microbiome & Health’, available on iMooX.at and YouTube. The course, structured into six units, covers microbiome concepts, methodologies, human and plant microbiomes, antibiotic resistance, and environmental impacts, aligning with the One Health concept and the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. Initial results show that the MOOC provides the means to increase microbiology literacy, with 73.2% external participation and above‐average completion rates. Integration as a mandatory component in university courses has improved student performance, halting declining grades and pass rates. This highlights the MOOC's potential to enhance public and academic understanding of microbiome science, fostering informed decisions for sustainable health and environmental stewardship as well as paving the way for new microbiome‐based solutions in biotechnology.
Production of the Sesquiterpene Bisabolene From One‐ and Two‐Carbon Compounds in Engineered Methanosarcina acetivorans
Authors: Mentrup Andrea , Scheitz Luca V. , Wallenfang Theo , Rother Michael
Published: February 2025

The isoprenoid bisabolene, one of the simplest monocyclic sesquiterpenes, is a natural plant product that, in addition to its biological function, serves as a precursor for many industrial products. Due to the low concentration of bisabolene and the long harvest cycle, industrial production of this isoprenoid in plants is economically challenging. Chemical synthesis of bisabolene also suffers from significant disadvantages, such as low yields, toxic side products and high costs. Archaea appear suitable producers of isoprenoids, as their membrane lipids consist of isoprenoid ethers, which are synthesised via a variant of the mevalonate (MVA) pathway. Archaeal model species have versatile metabolic capacities, which makes them potential candidates for biotechnological applications. Here, we engineered Methanosarcina acetivorans for production of α‐bisabolene from one‐carbon substrates by introducing a bisabolene synthase from Abies grandis. Expression of a codon‐optimised bisabolene synthase gene in M. acetivorans resulted in 10.6 mg bisabolene/L of culture. Overexpressing genes of the MVA pathway only slightly increased bisabolene yields, which, however, were reached much earlier during incubations than in the corresponding parent strain. The data presented argue for the suitability of M. acetivorans for the biotechnical production of certain isoprenoids.
Between Protection and Participation: Informed Consent, Ethics and Play in Research With Children and Youth
Authors: Barbero Maria V.
Published: February 2025

While a robust scholarly dialogue has emerged in recent decades surrounding child and youth‐centred research methods, less attention has been paid to how other elements of research design can better account for the needs, vulnerabilities, and perspectives of children and youth. In this article, I discuss challenges tied to informed consent processes and inflexible ethical guidelines in social science research with minors. Drawing from the child and youth studies literature as well as my past research experiences, I explore what it means to develop ethical approaches that are situated, responsive, and relational and which focus not only on the protection of minors but also their inclusion and full participation in research. In doing so, I develop the concept of “playful consent checkpoints” and argue that playful approaches can offer interesting and flexible possibilities for responding to ongoing ethical challenges in research with young people.
Optimizing Anesthesia Management in Liver Transplantation With Use of Real Time Frontal Electroencephalogram
Authors: Rice Gabriel , Douville Nicholas , Kumar Sathish , Bloom Patricia
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

Frontal electroencephalogram (fEEG) is a novel tool to monitor intraoperative sedation and may reduce anesthetic requirements. The utility of fEEG during liver transplantation has not been studied. The primary aim was to determine the association of fEEG with anesthetic requirement. Secondary aims included the effect of fEEG on intraoperative hemodynamics and postoperative outcomes.

Methods

We performed a single‐center retrospective cohort study of first‐time, liver‐alone transplant patients. Anesthetic requirement was measured by the mean minimum alveolar concentration of inhaled anesthetic. Hemodynamics were assessed by mean arterial pressure and total norepinephrine equivalents. Postoperative outcomes included time to extubation, mean postoperative sedation score, and incidence of delirium within five days of transplant. Both univariable and multivariable analysis was used.

Results

There were 37 fEEG‐guided and 40 standard‐of‐care patients included in analysis. fEEG was associated with a 15% decrease of mean minimum alveolar concentration compared to standard‐of‐care (p < 0.01). There was no association between fEEG and mean arterial pressure or total norepinephrine equivalents. fEEG‐guided and standard‐of‐care patients had similar time‐to‐extubation (10 h vs. 10 h, p = 0.98) and incidence of post‐operative delirium (19% vs. 10%, p = 0.43). fEEG was associated with a lower average postoperative sedation score (Beta = −0.2, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated an association of fEEG with a reduced anesthetic requirement while maintaining adequate sedation. Patients monitored with fEEG had lower postoperative sedation scores, but no changes in other postoperative outcomes. Future prospective studies are needed to better elucidate the role of fEEG in liver transplantation, its impact on patient outcomes, and its implications for healthcare costs.
Pharmacological treatment options for metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review
Authors: Konings Laura A. M. , Miguelañez‐Matute Lorena , Boeren Anna M. P. , van de Luitgaarden Inge A. T. , Dirksmeier Femme , de Knegt Rob J. , Tushuizen Maarten E. , Grobbee Diederick E. , Holleboom Adriaan G. , Cabezas Manuel Castro
Published: February 2025

Background

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is closely related to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through a common root in insulin resistance. The more severe stage, metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis (MASH), increases the risk for cardiovascular complications, liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Several trials investigating established antidiabetic‐drugs in patients with T2DM and MASLD have yielded promising results. Therefore, we aimed to systematically review the effect of T2DM‐drug treatment on MALSD parameters.

Methods

Medical databases were searched until January 2025 for controlled trials in patients with T2DM and MASLD/MASH. Studies that evaluated the effect of T2DM‐medication on the severity of MASLD/MASH in T2DM patients were included. The quality of the studies was assessed by three independent reviewers using a set of Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tools.

Results

Of 1748 references, 117 studies fulfilled the inclusion‐criteria and were assessed for eligibility in full‐text. Fifty‐two articles were included. Data included a total of 64.708 patients and study populations ranged from 9 to 50.742. Heterogeneity in study‐design and analysis hampered the comparability of the results. Most evidence was present for GLP‐1 receptor agonists, SGLT2‐inhibitors and PPAR‐γ‐agonists for regression of liver fibrosis and MASH.

Conclusion

Studies on the value of T2DM‐drug treatment in the improvement of MASLD vary significantly in study design, size and quality. GLP‐1 receptor agonists, PPAR‐γ‐agonists, SGLT2‐inhibitors may all be preferred pharmacological interventions for patients with MASLD/MASH and T2DM. Newer agents like dual GLP‐1/GIP or triple GLP‐1/GIP/Glucagon agonists will likely play an important role in the treatment of MASLD/MASH in the near future.
Exploring Nutritional Condition of Merluccius hubbsi During Early Life Stages: Environmental Drivers and Possible Implications on Subsequent Recruitment
Authors: Rodriguez Julieta , Alves Nadia M. , Chavesta Harold Fenco , Macchi Gustavo J. , Schiariti Agustin , Di Mauro Rosana , Diaz Marina V.
Published: February 2025

The early life stages of fish represent a period of high energy requirements due to profound changes that characterize the passage to adulthood, crucial for fisheries recruitment. This study focuses on the North Patagonian Frontal System (NPFS) that guarantees successful larval development and fulfills the three postulates of Bakun's “fundamental triad” in regards to nutrients, concentration of food, and retention of eggs and larvae inside the favorable area. The objective was to evaluate the nutritional condition of Merluccius hubbsi larvae and juveniles, from the Patagonian stock in January during austral summer (2010–2021). The standardized RNA/DNA index (RDs) was used. Interannual variation in the larval condition was observed in relation to NPFS features. RDs were positively linked to the stratification of the water column in the stratified zone. An opposite trend was observed between larval condition and potential egg production that might indicate the existence of density‐dependent mechanisms. On the other hand, the positive relation between larval condition and egg production of older females (≥7 years) supports the idea of a maternal effect on larval survival. There was also a positive relationship between juveniles condition, body size, and recruitment, but no relationship was observed with the stratification of the water column. The high sensitivity of the RDs index links physiological state with survival probability, informing on factors affecting eggs, larvae, and juveniles until their posterior recruitment. This study identified the stratified area of the NPFS as a favorable nursery zone, providing crucial information for managing populations under high fishing pressure.
In vitro combined haemostatic efficacy of emicizumab and extended half‐life factor VIII compounds
Authors: Josset Laurie , Rezigue Hamdi , Nougier Christophe , Leuci Alexandre , Désage Stéphanie , Lienhart Anne , Dargaud Yesim
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Early prophylaxis is the gold standard of care for severe haemophilia. The development of subcutaneous Factor VIII (FVIII) mimetics, such as emicizumab, has significantly reduced the disease burden and improved protection against bleeding episodes. Despite its benefits, emicizumab does not fully normalize haemostasis, requiring additional FVIII treatment for surgical procedures and management of breakthrough bleeding. In these cases, extended or ultra‐extended half‐life FVIII products are most commonly used. However, laboratory monitoring of these combinations can be challenging.

Aim

This study investigates the in vitro combined haemostatic activity of emicizumab with efmoroctocog alfa and efanesoctocog alfa using a thrombin generation assay (TGA).

Results and Conclusion

TGA can be used to monitor combined treatment with emicizumab and either efmoroctocog alfa or efanesoctocog alfa, which is not possible with currently available FVIII reagents for the latter. As expected, there is no synergistic effect between the mimetic and FVIII at therapeutical doses. Both efmoroctocog alfa and efanesoctocog alfa show similar in vitro procoagulant activity in terms of thrombin generation.
Effects of under‐eye skin and crow's feet on perceived facial appearance in women of five ethnic groups
Authors: Fink Bernhard , Campiche Remo , Shackelford Todd K. , Voegeli Rainer
Published: February 2025

Objective

Age‐related skin changes in the periorbital region caused by intrinsic (e.g. atrophy of collagen and fat) and extrinsic (e.g. sun exposure) factors, including skin wrinkling, hyperpigmentation, dark circles and lateral canthal lines (‘crow's feet’), are a concern for women. We investigated the impact of under‐eye skin and crow's feet on perceptions of women's faces in different ethnic groups.

Methods

Facial images of women (n = 180) from five ethnic groups were rated for age, health and attractiveness by naïve assessors of the same ethnic group (n = 120). Digital image analysis was used to quantify visible skin characteristics in two facial regions, that is, under the eyes (colour, gloss, tone evenness and wrinkles) and in the crow's feet region (wrinkles only). Skin image measurements were used to predict face ratings in the full sample and separately by ethnicity.

Results

Ethnic differences were detected for measurements of skin colour, gloss, tone evenness and wrinkles – the latter under the eyes and in the crow's feet region. Correlational and regression analysis indicated a major role of wrinkles (both regions) in predicting rated age, health and attractiveness from the facial portraits across ethnic groups, with some variation in the types or the predictive magnitude of skin characteristics.

Conclusion

The predictive utility of under‐eye wrinkles and crow's feet for rated age, health and attractiveness correspond to women's reported concern with under‐eye bags, dark circles and crow's feet. Despite some ethnic differences in these features, their impact on women's facial appearance ratings is similar across ethnic groups.
Rising consumer demand for green cosmetics: The necessity of an ecotoxicological score in the cosmetic industry
Authors: Guillaume M. , Guillemin L. , Pirnay S.
Published: February 2025

Objective

The increasing demand for eco‐friendly cosmetic products, along with tightening environmental regulations, necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of the environmental impact of cosmetic formulations. This study aims to develop an ecotoxicological scoring system, specifically designed for cosmetics, to quantify the ecological risk of product ingredients. This tool will assist industry professionals in selecting ingredients with lower environmental impacts while complying with safety and sustainability requirements.

Methods

Key ecotoxicological parameters were assessed, including acute and chronic aquatic toxicity, biodegradability and bioaccumulation potential. Each ingredient's impact was evaluated using these parameters, and a scoring system was developed to simplify the interpretation of complex ecotoxicological data.

Results

The scoring system is based on a set of formulas designed to quantify the ecotoxicological impacts of substances used in cosmetic products. These formulas incorporate various ecotoxicological factors, including biodegradability, aquatic toxicity and impacts on the food chain. Each criterion is weighted according to its environmental significance, leading to a final score that synthesizes the potential harmfulness of a substance. While this model remains theoretical, it provides a solid foundation for rapid and reliable assessments of products in the design phase.

Conclusion

This ecotoxicological scoring system offers a new approach to assessing the environmental impact of cosmetics. It simplifies the decision‐making process by providing clear and accessible data on the ecological risk of formulations. The application of this tool can lead to more sustainable product development and contribute to reducing the cosmetic industry's environmental footprint.
Inflammatory Nail Disorders in Skin of Color: A Systematic Review of Clinical and Onychoscopic Manifestations
Authors: Tordjman Lea , Thomas Jason , Tosti Antonella , Morrison Brian W.
Published: February 2025

Despite increasing attention regarding skin diseases in individuals with skin of color (SoC), there remains a significant gap in understanding and identifying inflammatory nail disorders in this population. This systematic review aims to synthesize the clinical and onychoscopic features of inflammatory nail disorders in patients with SoC, thereby enhancing diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. Our systematic PubMed and Medline (Web of Science) search followed PRISMA guidelines. Studies documenting clinical and onychoscopic features of inflammatory nail disorders in Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI were included. Data extraction focused on study design, patient demographics, diagnostic methods, and nail findings. Of the 608 articles identified, 60 met the inclusion criteria, encompassing 16 inflammatory nail disorders and 12,743 patient cases. Key disorders included nail psoriasis, nail lichen planus, alopecia areata‐associated nail changes, and others. Significant variability was noted in reporting skin type, with only a minority explicitly documenting SoC representation. This review underscores the paucity of literature on inflammatory nail disorders in SoC, highlighting gaps in clinical documentation and diagnostic approaches. Improved awareness and inclusion of SoC in dermatologic research are critical to addressing these disparities and enhancing health equity. Recognition of diverse clinical presentations in SoC patients is essential for accurate and timely diagnosis of inflammatory nail disorders. PROSPERO number: CRD42024568649.
Property–structure evolution in alkali‐free boroaluminosilicate glass via B2O3 substitution for alkaline earth oxides
Authors: Wu Jiangtao , Yan Ziming , Hao Zhuoya , Gao Yurong , Ge Xuan , Xu Jiali , Wang Lianjun , Ding Linfeng
Published: February 2025

Alkali‐free boroaluminosilicate glass (AFBG) is widely utilized in electronic display panels and glass fibers due to its superior mechanical properties and thermal stability. The growing demand for high‐performance materials capable of withstanding extreme conditions has propelled the development of AFBG. To this end, understanding the relationship between composition, structure, and properties at the atomic level is essential. This study investigates the effects of substituting B2O3 for alkaline earth metal oxides (RO) on the properties and structural variations of AFBG using a combination of experimental techniques alongside molecular dynamics simulations. The results indicate that the substitution of B2O3 with RO leads to an increase in [AlO5] and [BO3] units, resulting in an enhanced polymerized yet more open structure. This structural change is accompanied by a decrease in the coefficient of thermal expansion and glass transition temperature (Tg). Simultaneously, the reduced content of [AlO4] and [BO4] units weakens the overall glass network rigidity, leading to observed declines in elastic modulus and nanohardness. Notably, the changes in local coordination environment around Al dominates the overall structural and property variations. These findings provide atomic‐scale insights into the structural mechanisms governing the behavior of AFBG.
Pharmacokinetic properties of once‐weekly insulin icodec in Chinese individuals with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Li Yijun , Fu Ariel , Jiang Shan , Jøns Ann‐Katrine Kjærsgaard , Liang Beibei , Ni Qi , Ribel‐Madsen Rasmus , Westergaard Lisbet
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Insulin icodec is a novel once‐weekly basal insulin developed for the treatment of diabetes. The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of icodec in Chinese individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

In an open‐label, single‐group study, 24 Chinese individuals with type 2 diabetes (18–64 years, glycated hemoglobin ≤9.0%, body mass index 18.0–38.0 kg/m2) were treated with once‐weekly icodec for 6 weeks. The icodec dose was constant and individualized, aimed at achieving self‐measured plasma glucose of 4.4–7.0 mmol/L before breakfast. Blood samples were drawn from the first icodec dose until 35 days after last dose and were analyzed for total serum icodec concentration (i.e., the sum of albumin‐bound and unbound icodec).

Results

Icodec trough concentrations measured following initiation of once‐weekly icodec dosing suggested that clinical steady state for icodec was achieved after approximately 3–4 weeks of dosing. When at steady state, icodec exposure covered the full 1‐week dosing interval. The geometric mean half‐life was 159 h. The slopes of total icodec exposure (AUCτ,SS) and maximum icodec concentration (Cmax,SS) vs icodec dose did not differ significantly from 1, supporting dose‐proportionality for both AUCτ,SS (P = 0.40) and Cmax,SS (P = 0.43). Icodec was safe and well tolerated, and no new safety issues were identified in relation to icodec in this study.

Discussion

The pharmacokinetic properties of icodec assessed at steady state in this study demonstrated well‐distributed exposure across the 1‐week dosing interval and a half‐life that supports once‐weekly administration in Chinese individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Seasonal water level fluctuations cause opposite changes in fish trophic dynamics in Amazonian black‐water and white‐water lakes
Authors: Agasild H. , Cremona F. , Tuvikene A. , Val A. L. , Panksep K. , Zingel P.
Published: February 2025

Amazonian floodplain lakes, distinguished by their water types, are crucial ecosystems for fish biodiversity. In these ecosystems, the annual hydrological cycle, known as the “flood pulse,” is the primary driving force for fish productivity, providing habitat and feeding opportunities. However, how seasonal water level changes affect fish assemblages and feeding guild responses in floodplains with varying watershed characteristics is still poorly understood. We conducted a comparative stable isotope study in both a white‐water and a black‐water floodplain lake to investigate fish trophic dynamics during periods of rising and low water levels. Analyses of a broad taxonomic range of fish (seven orders and 27 families, with 73 and 82 taxa in the studied lakes, respectively) revealed that the fish assemblages in the studied white‐water and black‐water lakes exhibited different trophic dynamics in response to changes induced by the hydrological cycle. In contrast to the white‐water lake, a strong, trophic guild‐related effect shaped the δ13C and δ15N dynamics in the black‐water lake. As a result, the fish assemblage in the black‐water lake experienced significant trophic shifts with generally opposite dynamics over the water levels compared to the white‐water lake. In the black‐water lake, water level changes caused alterations in trophic niche width in almost all analyzed guilds (carnivorous, detritivorous, herbivorous, invertivorous, omnivorous, planktivorous), while this was less consistent in the white‐water lake. Our results suggest that the fish assemblage in the nutrient‐poor black‐water lake is more dependent on the annual flood pulse and associated resources than in the white‐water lake. These findings may further imply a relatively higher vulnerability of the black‐water lake to alterations in the regular flood pulse compared to the white‐water lake, indicating greater stability in feeding conditions and fish trophic dynamics in the latter.
Lip Filler Versus “Lip Flip”: Longitudinal Public Interest and a Brief Review of Literature
Authors: Bourmand Raika , Olsson Sofia E. , Soleimani Shirin , Fijany Arman
Published: February 2025

Background

The lip augmentation market is projected to reach a value of 11.6 billion USD by 2030. Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are the most common type due to biocompatibility and reversibility. However, there has been an increase in alternative procedures, such as the “lip flip,” involving the injection of botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT‐A) into the superior orbicularis oris muscle.

Aims

The purpose of this study is to review the current literature and evaluate the general public interest in dermal lip fillers compared to supralabial BoNT‐A injections over the past decade.

Methods

The Google Trends database was used to collect relative monthly search volume for the terms “lip filler” and “lip flip” over a decade‐long period (January 1, 2014–January 1, 2024). Google Trends data is automatically normalized with a value of 100 indicating maximal search volume and 1 indicating minimal search volume.

Results

Search volume for lip filler and lip flip increased similarly from 2014 to 2024. Lip filler was consistently more searched and had an average 75% increase in relative search volume per month. Meanwhile, “lip flip” had, on average, a 33% increase in search volume per month.

Conclusions

Although lip filler was more frequently inquired about than “lip flip,” the latter increased in popularity over time, reaffirming its popularity as a potential alternative to lip filler. Superior obicularis oris BoNT‐A injections are rising in popularity and may be a valuable option for patients seeking cosmesis with hesitation toward dermal fillers.