bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dance-specific Aerobic Fitness Test (DAFT) Heart Rate Variables are not Associated with Lower-Extremity Injuries in Contemporary Dance Students
Authors: Tiemens Annemiek , Plaatsman Larissa A. , van Rijn Rogier M. , Koes Bart W. , Stubbe Janine H.
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

The purpose of the study was to examine if dance-specific aerobic fitness test (DAFT) heart rate variables were associated to lower-extremity injuries in contemporary dance students.

Methods:

A total of 235 first-year contemporary dance students (18.6 ± 1.2 years) were prospectively followed over the first 4 months of their academic year. Peak heart rate (HRpeak) in the final stage of the DAFT and heart rate recovery (HRR) 1 minute after DAFT completion were measured. Lower-extremity injuries were registered using a self-reported monthly questionnaire including the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre Questionnaire on Health Problems (OSTRC-H). Three injury definitions were used (all-complaint injury, substantial injury, and time-loss injury). Associations between DAFT HRpeak, HRR and lower-extremity injury prevalence and severity were examined with regression analyses.

Results:

Lower-extremity injury prevalence was 36.2% (n = 85), 13.6% (n = 32), and 22.6% (n = 53) for all-complaint, substantial and time-loss injuries, respectively. There were no significant associations between HRpeak or HRR and injury prevalence using either of the 3 injury definitions. There were no significant associations between DAFT HRpeak or HRR and injury severity (days off due to injury or OSTRC-H severity score). Multivariate analyses showed significant associations between age and substantial injuries (OR 1.807; 95% CI 1.242-2.630; P < .01) and between age and time-loss injuries (OR 1.441; 95% CI 1.074-1.933; P < .05).

Conclusion:

Aerobic fitness measured with the DAFT was not associated with lower-extremity injury risk or injury severity. Higher age was associated with substantial and time-loss lower-extremity injuries.
Invoking Biko in MOS: Black Consciousness as potential liberatory praxis for confronting organizational and workplace anti-Black racism
Authors: Sihela Jacobs , April Kurt
Published: February 2025

This conceptual paper addresses the critical issue of anti-Black racism within organizations and aims to spark a discussion on action-oriented Black liberation beyond the workplace. Drawing inspiration from African anticolonial thought, particularly Steve Biko’s Black Consciousness (BC) political framework, we propose a praxis to tackle anti-Black racial violence at societal, organizational, and interpersonal levels in Southern Africa and beyond. Our goal is to invigorate scholarly engagement with Black liberation in Management and Organization Studies (MOS). By leveraging the Black Consciousness Movement (BCM), we seek to encourage decolonization and enrich management knowledge systems by highlighting diverse sources that contribute to organizational knowledge. We (re)imagine political means to confront anti-Black racism and foster Black liberation in (post)colonial workspaces, contributing to the enrichment of MOS, a field that has been relatively apolitical and silent on anti-Black racism and the lived experiences of marginalized Black people. We propose BC-inspired political praxis that includes initiatives at the societal (macro), organizational (meso), and interpersonal/personal (micro) levels, involving employees as insider activists and Black scholar-activists, Black community social activists, and allies as outsider activists working collaboratively to confront anti-Black racism and decolonize organizations and society. We conclude by calling for more theorizing on Black liberation in MOS to develop strategies to resist and dismantle anti-Black racism within academia, organizations and society.
Navigating cost-cutting practices to cope with crisis: Insights from the hotel industry during COVID-19
Authors: Gim Jaehee , Chan Janelle , Woo Linda , Mun Sung Gyun
Published: February 2025

The unpredictable nature of crises poses a significant challenge to the operation of businesses. Hotels often resort to reactive measures, specifically cost reduction strategies, as their primary means of surviving a crisis. Despite the challenges that firms often face in determining which expenses to prioritize to improve their chance of survival, no prior studies have delved into this pressing matter. Thus, this study applied machine learning classification models to prove which expense should be targeted for cuts first to increase the odds of surviving a crisis. We proposed that food and beverage salaries were the most important operating expense as a determinant of a good-performing hotel during the COVID-19 crisis, and marketing expenses were the second most important operating expense. We also found that the relative importance of hotel operating expenses had changed before and during COVID-19.
Nonlinear forced response of non-uniform beams carrying point masses using the harmonic balance method with an arc-length continuation scheme
Authors: Sari Ma’en S
Published: February 2025

This work examines the forced vibrations of a non-uniform Euler-Bernoulli beam carrying point masses and subjected to a concentrated transverse harmonic force. By the means of Newton’s second law of motion, the integro-partial differential equation of motion is derived. The Galerkin approach is applied, and the normalized mode shapes of the non-uniform base beam are used to derive the nonlinear governing equation of motion that contains cubic and quintic nonlinearities. The method of harmonic balance method (HB) in conjunction with the pseudo arc-length continuation scheme are employed to obtain the amplitude-frequency curves. Non-uniform beams with two different boundary conditions are considered in this study; cantilever and simply supported beams. To examine the accuracy and validity of the proposed method and solution, some results obtained by the suggested approach have been compared with those found through numerical integration, where a good agreement was achieved. The influences of several factors such as the non-uniformity parameter, the magnitude of the point masses, and the boundary conditions on the steady state amplitude have been examined. It is observed that these parameters have significant effects on the dynamic behavior of the non-uniform beams. For generality and convenience, the results are displayed in dimensionless forms.
Radiation-associated angiosarcoma of the breast: radical resection technique of the entire radiation field
Authors: Thiel Johannes Tobias , Bauer Michael , Daigeler Adrien , Kavaka Vladyslav , Kolbenschlag Jonas , Steiner Dominik , Storz Anna , Hoffmann Sebastian
Published: February 2025

Background:

Radiation-associated angiosarcoma of the breast (RAASB) is a rare secondary angiosarcoma that typically develops subsequent to breast-conserving therapy for breast cancer. The parameters of the resection width and depth remain the subject of considerable controversy. More recent data indicate that radical resection of the complete radiation field at the thorax is associated with improved local control and survival.

Objectives:

The present study investigates the radical resection technique of the entire radiation field and subsequent defect coverage in RAASB, as well as the medium-term follow-up.

Design:

Monocentric, retrospective, and non-comparative study.

Methods:

From January 2017 to January 2024 a total of 10 patients with RAASB were treated at our hospital. The radical resection technique was employed in the treatment of all patients, encompassing the entire radiation field. Three patients received local flaps (two of whom received vertical and transversal rectus abdominis muscle flaps and one received a local random pattern flap), while the remaining seven were treated with split-thickness skin grafts for defect coverage.

Results:

The median age at initial diagnosis of breast cancer was 59.3 ± 9.41 years, while that of RAASB was 66.2 ± 8.32 years. The median latency period between the start of irradiation of the chest wall and the initial presentation of RAASB was 6.5 ± 3.08 years. The cumulative median total radiation dose was 57.23 ± 8.34 Gray (cumulative Gray) in 9 of the 10 patients. The overall survival (OS) was 80% in the cohort, with a median follow-up period of 40.0 ± 27.96 months. Three patients exhibited local relapses following radical resection, with two of these patients ultimately succumbing to their condition.

Conclusion:

Patients with RAASB may benefit from a radical resection of the entire radiation field. Despite the relatively mutilating nature of the procedure, the radical resection technique may have the potential to reduce the rate of local recurrence and prolong OS.
Miracle Fruit berry: Hedonic pleasure meets technological progress
Authors: Landázuri Andrea C , Chimbo Luis , Velasco Franklin , Tapia Diego , Lagos Andrés S , Gualle Arleth , Shayeb Aseel , Viveros Camila , Tapia Esteban , Orejuela Lourdes , Álvarez José Miguel
Published: February 2025

The “Miracle Fruit” ( Synsepalum dulcificum) is a tropical shrub native to West Africa that was introduced in Ecuador, South America, six decades ago. Locally produced Miracle Fruit (MF) berries are cultivated under an Analog Forestry System, which promotes biodiversity conservation and sustainable production. MF berries contain miraculin, a glycoprotein that imparts a sweet taste to sour flavors, making it an intriguing subject for research. This review comprehensively explores the reported anticancer, antidiabetic, and other biomedical potentials of MF. It also examines the fruit's hedonic allure, gastronomic appeal, environmental significance, and industrial versatility. Importantly, this review highlights the circular economy potential of MF, demonstrating how its diverse applications in food, health, and technology sectors can be interconnected to maximize resource efficiency and minimize waste. The unique flavor-modifying property of miraculin enhances the fruit's attractiveness to consumers and researchers alike, while its multiple uses promote a circular approach to its utilization. This study explores and promotes the multifaceted applications of MF in Ecuador and globally. It aims to encourage health innovation, circular economy practices, industrial symbiosis, and environmental conservation. Furthermore, it showcases how a single natural resource can have far-reaching impacts across various domains.
Beyond Neutrality: A Longitudinal Analysis of Gender, Party, and Media Visibility in the Tone of US Political Coverage
Authors: Andrich Aliya
Published: February 2025

Research shows that female politicians often receive more negative news coverage than their male counterparts, which can undermine voter support and contribute to their underrepresentation in politics. Despite the increase in politically active women and heightened attention to gender issues in political discourse in the United States, the past decade has also witnessed a rise in divisive rhetoric and political polarization. These changes not only transformed the political environment but also may have impacted media coverage of political figures. Despite the evolving sociopolitical landscape, existing research on news sentiment lacks a longitudinal perspective. This study uses transformer-based classifiers for sentiment detection and state space models for time series analysis to provide new longitudinal evidence on the evolution of positive and negative coverage of 1,095 US politicians in almost 900,000 news articles during the 2010s. The results indicate that while some female politicians experienced more negative coverage than men, the pattern varied depending on the politicians’ party affiliation and media visibility. In both election and routine periods, the media portrayed female Democrats, who received moderate levels of media coverage, less negatively than male Republicans, but more critically than female Republicans and male Democrats. Notably, Democratic and Republican women received slightly more positive coverage in most election years of the 2010s. Highly visible politicians, especially women, received more negative attention overall. The study and its findings advance our understanding of how news sentiment varies across different groups of politicians and how it fluctuates between election and nonelection periods.
Impact of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors on incidence of colorectal cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fu Rongrong , Chen Jingqi , Fang Yingying , Wu Qingping , Zhang Xiaoming , Wang Zhiyan
Published: February 2025

Background:

The association between dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i) exposure and the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is unclear.

Objectives:

This meta-analysis aims to investigate the relationship between DPP-4i exposure and the incidence of CRC in patients with T2DM.

Design:

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and ScienceDirect, was conducted up to March 2024. The studies including randomized clinical trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and case–control studies were retrieved. The odds ratio (OR) was calculated using Stata 12.0 statistical software. The primary outcome assessed was the incidence of CRC.

Results:

This meta-analysis incorporated six retrospective cohort studies and two case–control studies. The findings indicate that the incidence of CRC in the DPP-4i exposure group was significantly higher than that in the control group (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.02–1.21, p = 0.013). Subgroup analysis revealed that both male (OR = 2.07, p < 0.001) and female participants (OR = 1.49, p = 0.05) in the DPP-4i exposure group exhibited a significantly higher incidence of CRC compared to the control group. Among participants younger than 65 years, the incidence of CRC was markedly elevated in the exposure group (OR = 2.81, p < 0.001). Furthermore, when the exposure duration was less than 1 year, the CRC incidence in the exposure group surpassed that of the control group (OR = 1.24, p = 0.005). When sulfonylureas (SU) were used as control drugs, the incidence of CRC was higher in the exposure group (OR = 1.10, p = 0.017).

Conclusion:

There is a potential correlation between DPP-4i exposure and increased incidence of CRC in T2DM patients. This association appears to be influenced by gender, age, duration of exposure, and the choice of control medications. Therefore, attention should be paid to colorectal diseases when DPP-4i is employed in the clinic.

Trial registration:

The meta-analysis has been registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). The registration number is CRD42024535292.
The Impact of Setting, Time of Day, and Giftedness on Divergent Thinking Test Scores
Authors: Abdulla Alabbasi Ahmed M. , Acar Selcuk , Runco Mark A. , Alsuqer Sara A. , Aljasim Fatima A. , Sultan Zainab M.
Published: February 2025

Students may not express their creativity uniformly, across all settings and under all conditions. Creativity is sensitive to expected evaluations, for example, and likely to vary when the individual is alone, in a small group, or in a large group. Quite a bit of research has demonstrated that certain conditions can be created to support creative thinking by students. The present study focused on two key factors that may impact divergent thinking (DT) performance: classroom setting and time of the day. DT is the capacity to generate ideas along diverse cognitive pathways. It can be contrasted with convergent thinking, where cognitive processes lead to one correct or conventional solution. Divergent thinking, in contrast, often leads to original and unconventional ideas. The sample consisted of 160 female students from Saudi Arabia (80 gifted and 80 nongifted) in grades 10 to 12. Two DT tests were administered: the Alternative Uses Test (AUT) and the Figural Divergent Thinking Test. A repeated measures ANOVA indicated that verbal and figural fluency performance was higher in the art room than in the regular classroom. Moreover, the difference in verbal flexibility performance between the two settings was larger for nongifted students than gifted students. The differences between the settings in figural and verbal originality were not statistically significant, although gifted and nongifted students both performed better in the art room. Another repeated measure ANOVA was performed to test whether or not there was a difference in DT performance related to the time of the school day (first vs. second half). The results showed no differences between DT performance due to the time of the day except for verbal originality in the regular classroom during the second half of the school day. Limitations and future research of the current study are discussed.
Development of the Financial Composite Index for MENA Region: A Two-Staged Principal Components Analysis
Authors: Bin Hidthir Mohammad Helmi , Khan Ahsan Aslam , Junoh Mohd Zukime Mat , Yusof Mohd Faizal Bin , Ahmad Zaki
Published: February 2025

The present study aims to compute the level of financial inclusiveness in MENA region countries, considering the three fundamental dimensions that impact financial inclusion: depth, accessibility, and usage of financial services. Moreover, this article incorporates digital payments-related indicators, credit and debit cards, total borrowers, savers, and other indicators to create a more comprehensive financial inclusion index. A two-step PCA methodology with endogenous weighting is employed to develop the financial inclusion index. The data was collected from the IMF and the World Bank from 2010 to 2021. The resulting composite financial inclusion index (FI Index) can be compared across other countries in the MENA region over time, providing a valuable tool for policymakers and evaluators. The two-stage PCA approach implemented in this study addresses the issue of random weight selection and results in a more comprehensive evaluation of the degree of financial inclusion. In summary, this research enhances our understanding of financial inclusion in MENA region countries and offers a methodology to gauge and monitor progress.
Differences in the Association Between Medial Meniscus Tears and Focal Cartilage Lesions According to Tear Configuration
Authors: Jeon Taehyeon , Kim Jong-Min , Lee Bum-Sik , Bin Seong-Il , Lee Jongjin , Bae Kinam , Kim Donghyok
Published: February 2025

Background:

There are no statistical analyses on the association between the configuration of medial meniscus tears and the location of focal cartilage lesions.

Purpose:

To investigate the association between the configuration of medial meniscus tears and focal cartilage lesions and analyze whether the location of medial meniscus tears corresponds with that of focal cartilage lesions.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The authors retrospectively evaluated the medical records of 317 patients with isolated medial meniscus tear who underwent arthroscopic surgery from January 2016 to December 2020. The configuration of the medial meniscus tear was determined based on the International Society of Arthroscopy, Knee Surgery and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine (ISAKOS) classification. Patients with flap, radial, and longitudinal tears were included in the vertical tear group. For subgroup analysis, vertical tears were divided into medial meniscus posterior root tears and remaining tears. The location of the medial meniscus tear was categorized as anterior, middle, or posterior according to the ISAKOS classification. The cartilage of the medial femoral condyle (MFC) and that of the medial tibial condyle (MTC) were divided into 6 and 4 zones, respectively, and the location of cartilage lesions on the MFC and MTC was evaluated by preoperative magnetic resonance imaging.

Results:

There was a higher incidence of focal cartilage lesions with vertical versus horizontal medial meniscus tears ( P < .001). For middle and posterior vertical tears with focal cartilage lesions, there was a significant concordance in location between the tear and the lesion ( P < .001). In a subgroup analysis of medial meniscus posterior root tears, there was significantly more discordance in location between the tear and the lesion with medial meniscus posterior root tears (23/26 tears; 88.5%) compared with the remaining vertical tears (60/177 tears; 33.9%) ( P < .001); instead, the focal cartilage lesions were mainly distributed in the lateral anterior and central portions of both the MFC and MTC.

Conclusion:

Vertical tears of the medial meniscus were significantly associated with the presence of focal cartilage lesions, whereas horizontal tears were not. Additionally, middle and posterior vertical tears with focal cartilage lesions showed significant concordance in location between the tear and the lesion.
Parametric optimization of solvent-cast 3D-printed PCL composites for improved hardness
Authors: Gogoi Debashish , Kumar Manjesh
Published: February 2025

This study explores the fabrication of bone scaffolds using a composite ink of poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and synthesized fluorapatite (FHAp) via response surface methodology optimization to achieve optimal Vickers hardness number (VHN). Characterization with X-ray diffraction confirms FHAp presence and increased crystallinity post-sintering, while Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy reveals fundamental material interactions. Results show PCL’s softening effect at higher concentrations, PHB’s contribution to decreasing hardness and FHAp’s significant role in reinforcing the composite. Contour plots demonstrate peak hardness at lower PCL and PHB concentrations (<11% wt/v) with 18% wt/v FHAp. The optimum hardness values were found at PCL, PHB and FHAp of 9.754% wt/v, 9.473% wt/v and 24.608% wt/v, respectively, yielding 185.34 VHN. These findings offer insights into optimizing composite concentrations for tailored mechanical properties crucial in bone scaffold design, advancing regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.
Global Longitudinal Strain Imaging in Detection of Subclinical Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction in Patients with Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Dinaraj Arun , Radhakrishnan V.V.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy and high filling pressure in severe aortic stenosis (AS) cause impairment in coronary flow reserve. This results in LV myocardial ischemia, resulting in impairment in longitudinal shortening.

Aim

To study the role of LV global longitudinal systolic strain (LVGLS) imaging in identifying subclinical LV dysfunction and to determine the correlation between LVGLS and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT pro-BNP) in asymptomatic patients having severe AS and preserved left ventricle ejection fraction.

Methodology

This study included 33 asymptomatic patients with severe AS and 30 age- and sex-matched control groups. The ejection fraction was measured using the modified Simpson technique. LVGLS was measured with a two-dimensional speckle tracking analysis on apical 2, 3, and 4 chamber views.

Results

LVGLS was significantly reduced in asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis with normal ejection fraction compared to the normal control group without aortic stenosis ( P < .001). There is a positive correlation between impairment of LVGLS and left ventricular mass index (LVMI), the pressure gradient across the aortic valve, and the valve area. There is a linear correlation between NT pro-brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and LVGLS ( r value 0.447); as the LVGLS decreases, NT pro-BNP increases.

Conclusion

LVGLS can be used as a reliable indicator for the detection of subclinical LV dysfunction in asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis patients with preserved ejection fraction.
Implementing ASH's Guidelines for Acute Medical Care for Children and Adults with Sickle Cell Disease in Custody
Authors: DeBaun Michael R , Staples-Horne Michelle , Sadacharan Radha , Braverman Paula , Shah Nirmish , Strouse John J , Orsini Deana , Lee Charles D , Barnert Elizabeth S
Published: February 2025

Between 2019 and 2021, the American Society of Hematology (ASH) developed clinical guidelines for managing sickle cell disease (SCD), covering acute pain, acute neurological events, and other complications. However, these guidelines lacked implementation strategies for incarcerated individuals, a vulnerable group with unique challenges. In 2024, an ASH special panel of SCD and carceral health experts convened to address acute SCD care in custody settings, emphasizing timely access to emergency care, including acute management for acute strokes, pain management, and fever evaluation. The ASH special panel recommended pre-arranged emergency plans for transfer to specialized facilities, continuity of care with SCD specialists, and adherence to community-level care standards. Limitations included insufficient population data and absent chronic care guidelines. The ASH special panel urged that future ASH guidelines address SCD management tailored to carceral settings to reduce morbidity and ensure equitable care.
Pharmacogenomics-based subtype decoded implications for risk stratification and immunotherapy in pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhou Xing , Ba Yuhao , Xu Nuo , Xu Hui , Zhang Yuyuan , Liu Long , Weng Siyuan , Liu Shutong , Xing Zhe , Chen Shuang , Luo Peng , Wang Libo , Han Xinwei
Published: February 2025

Background

With fatal malignant peculiarities and poor survival rate, outcomes of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) were frustrated by non-response and even resistance to therapy due to heterogeneity across clinical patients. Nevertheless, pharmacogenomics has been developed for individualized-treatment and still maintains obscure in PAAD.

Methods

A total of 964 samples from 10 independent multi-center cohorts were enrolled in our study. With drug response data from the profiling of relative inhibition simultaneously in mixtures (PRISM) and genomics of drug sensitivity in cancer (GDSC) databases, we established and validated multidimensionally three pharmacogenomics-classified subtypes using non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) and nearest template prediction (NTP) algorithms, separately. The heterogenous biological characteristics and precision medicine strategies among subtypes were further investigated.

Results

Three pharmacogenomics-classified subtypes after stable and reproducible validation, distinguished in six aspects of prognosis, biological peculiarities, immune landscapes, genomic variations, immunotherapy and individualized management strategies. Subtype 2 was close to immunocompetent phenotype and projected to immunotherapy; Subtype 3 held most favorable outcomes and metabolic pathways distinctively, promising to be treated with first-line agents. Subtype 1 with worst prognosis, was anticipated to chromosome instability (CIN) phenotype and resistant to chemotherapeutic agents. In addition, ITGB6 contributed to subtype 1 resistance to 5-fluorouracil, and knockdown of ITGB6 enhanced sensitivity to 5-fluorouracil in in vitro experiments. Ultimately, appropriate clinical stratified treatments were assigned to corresponding subtypes according to pharmacogenomic transcripts. Some limitations were not taken into account, thus needs to be supported by more research.

Conclusion

A span-new molecular subtype exploited for PAAD uncovered an insight into precise medication on ground of pharmacogenomics, and highly refined multiple clinical management strategies for specific patients.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of General Physicians towards Mild Cognitive Impairment amidst an evolving era of Interprofessional Collaboration: Insights from a small-scale survey in India
Authors: Soni Aarushi , Carthik Prajith , Kumar Devara Manoj , Rooha Aysha , Bajaj Gagan , Moolambally Sheetal Raj , Shirali Arun , Boloor Archith
Published: February 2025

Background

Early identification and intervention of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), led by General Physicians (GPs), can delay dementia onset and enhance patient outcomes. GPs recognize MCI risk factors, conduct assessments, and manage associated conditions, playing a crucial role in cognitive pathology intervention, especially in the era of Interprofessional Collaboration (IPC). In India, where cognitive impairment rates are projected to rise sharply, understanding GPs’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) is vital. This study aimed to investigate the KAP of GPs regarding the diagnosis and treatment of MCI using a customized, predesigned questionnaire.

Method

The study employed a cross-sectional design using a convenience sample of 180 invited participants between July and October 2023. A customized questionnaire, based on Lu et al., 2022, evaluated GPs’ KAP regarding MCI and IPC in the Indian context towards its assessment and management. The tool including 9 knowledge items, 15 attitude items, and 12 practice items, was made available through Google Forms and disseminated via WhatsApp. Responses were scored to indicate KAP levels, with maximum scores being 50 for knowledge, 75 for attitudes, and 60 for practices.

Results

103 GPs completed the survey, showing varied practice experience. The average knowledge score was 28.1 ± 7.98, indicating uncertainty about MCI-related factors and diagnostic criteria. Attitude scores averaged 53.5 ± 4.73, with most GPs endorsing early detection and non-pharmacological interventions. Practice scores averaged 41.8 ± 8.32, showing mixed adherence to screening and referral practices. Most participants found IPC highly effective for MCI diagnosis and management, with many referring patients to specialists for confirmation, while over half used an IPC approach for both. Education level and previous experience significantly influenced knowledge and practice scores.

Conclusion

This study sheds light on the evolving landscape of Indian GPs’ KAP related to MCI assessment and management. It identifies areas where understanding could be strengthened and highlight opportunities for growth through education and training. Notably, there is a need for increased involvement in IPC. These findings emphasize the importance of holistic approaches, advocating for enhanced education and the fostering of collaborative relationships across disciplines to tackle the rising prevalence of MCI in India effectively.
Predictors of subjective memory functioning in young adults
Authors: Csábi Eszter , Kovács Fanni Mercédesz , Volosin Márta
Published: February 2025

Background

The characteristics of subjective memory and the underlying cause of subjective memory complaints are well-established in the older population, but less is known about memory functioning and self-perceived memory deficiency in young adults. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the potential contributing factors of subjective memory complaints in young adults, such as objective cognitive performance, negative affective state, well-being and subjective sleep quality.

Methods

125 participants over the age of 18 years were recruited in the study (average age was 21 years (SD = 2.29), 58 males and 67 females, average education of the participants was 14.1 years (SD = 1.94). We measured subjective memory with Multifactorial Memory Questionnaire and different cognitive domains (such as short- and long-term verbal and visual memory, working memory, and executive functions), negative affective states (depression and anxiety), well-being, and subjective sleep quality.

Results

Our results showed that depression had a significant predictive value on satisfaction with memory and subjective memory complaints. We failed to find a relationship between perceived subjective memory functioning and objective cognitive performance. Besides anxiety, only the executive functions predicted significantly the frequency of internal strategy use.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we revealed that negative affective states are more pronounced in the satisfaction with memory and subjective memory complaints in young adults than the objective cognitive ability.
Access to diagnostic testing for invasive fungal diseases and other opportunistic infections in Mexican health care centers caring for patients living with HIV
Authors: Corzo-Leon Dora E. , Martinez-Rivera Nancy , Martin-Onraet Alexandra , Piñeirua-Menendez Alicia
Published: February 2025

Background

The burden of opportunistic infections (OIs) remains high among people living with HIV (PLWH) in Mexico, despite improvements in mortality worldwide.

Objective

Reporting the current access to diagnostics of OIs in Mexican Health Care Centers offering health-care services to PLWH.

Methods

An online questionnaire was sent to public health care facilities providing HIV care in Mexico. We evaluated capacities to 1) identify individuals with advanced-HIV, and 2) local and/or on-site access to: point-of-care assays, imaging studies, histological analysis, and microbiology tests useful to diagnose a wide variety of OIs.

Results

In 2022, 46 centers answered the questionnaire, from 23/32 (71.8%) states of the country; 29 (63%) were primary care facilities, 5 (11%) general hospitals and 12 (26%) tertiary care hospitals, providing health services to 67,000 PLWH. These centers received 1,135 new patients/month, 48% with advance disease. Less than 50% could determine CD4 + T cell count (39%, N = 18), toxoplasma serology (41%, N = 19) and HIV viral load (41%, N = 19). Twenty-five centers could diagnose cryptococcosis and tuberculosis (54%). Meanwhile, 11 centers (24%) had access to aspergillosis or Histoplasma tests. Seven centers (11%) had access to coccidioidomycosis tests, five centers to any Pneumocystis diagnosis. In primary care centers, Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex GeneXPert was accessible in 41%, cryptococcal antigen by latex agglutination was available in one facility (3%), Indian ink in 9 centers (31%). No primary health center had access to lateral flow test for Cryptococcus or Histoplasma antigens.

Conclusions

In Mexico, most public HIV-dedicated health care centers lack on-site capacity to diagnose opportunistic infections, specifically fungal infections. Rapid tests and point-of-care tests are frequently unavailable, which is more pronounced in primary care centres. Considering that IFDs still contribute significantly to mortality among PLWH, better access to diagnostic tools in all levels of HIV-care is urgent.
K27-linked RORγt ubiquitination by Nedd4 potentiates Th17-mediated autoimmunity
Authors: Zeng Qiuming , Guo Hui , Tang Na , Renavikar Pranav S. , Karandikar Nitin J. , Lovett-Racke Amy E. , Racke Michael K. , Yan Chengkai , Tang Rong , Sinha Sushmita , Ghosh Krishnendu , Ryal Jeremy P. , Ouyang Song , Chen Min , Amari Foued , Vincenzo Coppola , Pope R. Marshall , Li Yalan , Yang Huan , Langdon Wallace Y. , Zhang Jian
Published: February 2025

Background

The HECT E3 ubiquitin ligase Nedd4 has been shown to positively regulate T cell responses, but its role in T helper (Th) cell differentiation and autoimmunity is unknown. Th17 cells are believed to play a pivotal role in the development and pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Nevertheless, the regulation of RORγt activation during Th17 cell differentiation by TCR signaling is yet to be elucidated. These uncharted aspects inspire us to explore the potential role of Nedd4 in Th17-mediated autoimmunity.

Methods

We evaluated the impact of Nedd4 deficiency on mouse T cell development and differentiation using flow cytometry and siRNA transfection, and subsequently validated these findings in T cells from patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Furthermore, we investigated the influence of Nedd4 deficiency on Th17-mediated autoimmunity through experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a mouse model of MS. Subsequently, we elucidated the molecular mechanism underlying the interaction between Nedd4 and RORgt through immunoprecipitation, mass spectrometry analysis, and lentiviral transduction. Additionally, we identified Nedd4 as an E3 ubiquitin ligase for RORγt. Moreover, we characterized the tyrosine residue sites and polyubiquitination patterns involved in RORγt ubiquitination.

Results

In this study, we report that loss of Nedd4 in T cells specifically impairs pathogenic and non-pathogenic Th17 responses, and Th17-mediated EAE development. At the molecular level, Nedd4 binds to the PPLY motif within the ligand binding domain of RORγt, and targets RORγt at K112 for K27-linked polyubiquitination, thus augmenting its activity.

Conclusion

Nedd4 is a crucial E3 ubiquitin ligase for RORγt in the regulating Th17 cell development and offers potential therapeutic benefits for treating Th17-mediated autoimmune diseases.
The integrated stress response in neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Bravo-Jimenez Maria Astrid , Sharma Shivangi , Karimi-Abdolrezaee Soheila
Published: February 2025

The integrated stress response (ISR) is a conserved network in eukaryotic cells that mediates adaptive responses to diverse stressors. The ISR pathway ensures cell survival and homeostasis by regulating protein synthesis in response to internal or external stresses. In recent years, the ISR has emerged as an important regulator of the central nervous system (CNS) development, homeostasis and pathology. Dysregulation of ISR signaling has been linked to several neurodegenerative diseases. Intriguingly, while acute ISR provide neuroprotection through the activation of cell survival mechanisms, prolonged ISR can promote neurodegeneration through protein misfolding, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Understanding the molecular mechanisms and dynamics of the ISR in neurodegenerative diseases aids in the development of effective therapies. Here, we will provide a timely review on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the ISR in neurodegenerative diseases. We will highlight the current knowledge on the dual role that ISR plays as a protective or disease worsening pathway and will discuss recent advances on the therapeutic approaches that have been developed to target ISR activity in neurodegenerative diseases.
GABA regulates metabolic reprogramming to mediate the development of brain metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Xie Mengqing , Qin Hao , Liu Li , Wu Jing , Zhao Zhikai , Zhao Yaodong , Fang Yujia , Yu Xin , Su Chunxia
Published: February 2025

Background

Brain metastasis (BrM) poses a significant challenge to the prognosis and quality of life for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS), has been implicated in the progression of various tumors. However, its potential role in BrM of NSCLC and the underlying mechanisms remain largely unexplored.

Methods

A multi-omics approach combined with in vivo and in vitro experiments identified GABA as a key target in BrM of NSCLC. Functional and mechanistic studies were conducted to investigate how GABA mediates brain metastasis through the activation of the NF-κB pathway.

Results

GABA levels were significantly elevated in both cells and serum of patients with NSCLC who had BrM. GABA markedly enhanced the brain metastatic capabilities and malignancy of NSCLC cells. Mechanistically, tumor cells with a tendency for brain metastasis can inhibit 4-aminobutyrate aminotransferase (ABAT) by downregulating forkhead box A2 (FOXA2) expression, leading to increased GABA accumulation. GABA subsequently activates the NF-κB pathway and the astrocytes, thus facilitating the brain metastasis of NSCLC.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that GABA plays a crucial role in the development of NSCLC brain metastasis by activating the NF-κB pathway through the FOXA2/ABAT/GABA axis. Additionally, the interaction between NSCLC and astrocytes creates an inhibitory microenvironment that promotes tumor colonization.
Chromosomal and gonadal sex have differing effects on social motivation in mice
Authors: Chaturvedi Sneha M. , Sarafinovska Simona , Selmanovic Din , McCullough Katherine B. , Swift Raylynn G. , Maloney Susan E. , Dougherty Joseph D.
Published: February 2025

Background

Sex differences in brain development are thought to lead to sex variation in social behavior. Sex differences are fundamentally driven by both gonadal hormones and sex chromosomes, yet little is known about the independent effects of each on social behavior. Further, mouse models of the genetic liability for the neurodevelopmental disorder MYT1L Syndrome have shown sex-specific deficits in social motivation. In this study, we aimed to determine if gonadal hormones or sex chromosomes primarily mediate the sex differences seen in mouse social behavior, both at baseline and in the context of Myt1l haploinsufficiency.

Methods

Four-core genotypes (FCG) mice, which uncouple gonadal and chromosomal sex, were crossed with MYT1L heterozygous mice to create eight different groups with unique combinations of sex factors and MYT1L genotype. A total of 131 mice from all eight groups were assayed for activity and social behavior via the open field and social operant paradigms. Measures of social seeking and orienting were analyzed for main effects of chromosome, gonads, and their interactions with Myt1l mutation.

Results

The FCGxMYT1L cross revealed independent effects of both gonadal and chromosomal sex on activity and social behavior. Specifically, the presence of ovarian hormones led to greater overall activity, social seeking, and social orienting regardless of MYT1L genotype. In contrast, sex chromosomes affected social behavior mainly in the MYT1L heterozygous group, with XX MYT1L mutant mice demonstrating elevated levels of social orienting and seeking compared to XY MYT1L mutant mice.

Conclusions

Gonadal and chromosomal sex have independent mechanisms of driving greater social motivation in females. Additionally, genes on the sex chromosomes may interact with neurodevelopmental risk genes to influence sex variation in atypical social behavior.
Evaluating and Revealing Statistical Patterns and Database Performance in Hydrogen Exploration
Authors: Mosquera-Rivera Juan Esteban , Jiménez-Vergara Juan Manuel , Betancourt-Flórez Rolando Esteban , Vargas-Jiménez Carlos Alberto , Ball Philip Joseph
Published: February 2025

This study conducts a statistical analysis of global natural hydrogen occurrences revealing critical patterns and proposing future exploration strategies. By updating previous databases (including gt;10% hydrogen occurrences), we compiled 411 data points. These were classified and compared using databases related to tectonic, geophysical, surface, and mineral resource components. Anomaly detection was applied to identify local and regional patterns through location property analysis and the modified z-score method. The analysis highlights the strengths and limitations of current datasets and offers recommendations for future research. This study enhances our understanding of the distribution of high hydrogen occurrences, highlighting significant patterns primarily associated with proximity to geological province boundaries, active faults, mineral commodities, and mineralizations. Additionally, it identifies anomalies linked to geophysical and surface components and evaluates the potential of specific databases as practical exploration tools.
Lipodystrophy Severity Score to Assess Disease Burden in Lipodystrophy
Authors: Brown Rebecca J , Akinci Baris , Yosef Matheos , Phillips Helen , Khalatbari Shokoufeh , Sorkina Ekaterina , Santini Ferruccio , Vigouroux Corinne , Brush Maiah , Meral Rasimcan , Ceccarini Giovanni , Zeybel Mujdat , Prodam Flavia , von Schnurbein Julia , Sorice Gian P , Guler Merve C , Patni Nivedita , Tanrikulu Seher , Alyaarubi Saif , Ozgen Basak S , Foss-Freitas Maria C , Ozisik Secil , Segrestin Benerice , Ozcan Busra , Adiyaman Suleyman C , Musolino Gianluca , Sekizkardes Hilal , Musso Carla , Lebenthal Yael , Ozen Samim , Simha Vinaya , Simsir Ilgin Y , Stears Anna , Scherer Thomas , Gambineri Alessandra , Lima Josivan G , Semple Robert , Wabitsch Martin , Araujo-Vilar David , Hegele Robert A , Oral Elif A
Published: February 2025

Context

Lipodystrophy syndromes are rare disorders characterized by deficient adipose tissue, leading to insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and organ system abnormalities.

Objective

Our goal was to develop a lipodystrophy severity score (LDS) to holistically capture the diverse manifestations of lipodystrophy into a numerical score to aid in prediction of clinical outcomes and/or treatment impact.

Design

An 8-domain LDS was developed by eight disease experts in consultation with patient organizations. The LDS was rated for feasibility and content validity by 28 additional clinicians and 9 patient representatives. LDS was compared to Clinical Global Impression (CGI) of severity for 20 putative patient profiles, each at two different time points, and by comparing change in LDS to global impression of change. For external validation, LDS was calculated in two cohorts of patients with lipodystrophy treated with metreleptin.

Results

LDS domains include Diabetes/Insulin Resistance, Microvascular Complications of Diabetes, Lipids, Cardiovascular, Liver, Kidney, Reproductive, and Other. Each domain is assessed by one or more questions assessing both lifetime and recent complications of lipodystrophy. The LDS had high content validity and feasibility, and high reliability by intraclass correlation coefficients (>0.95). Global and domain-specific LDS were strongly correlated with CGI, as were changes in scores across visits (R=0.79-0.99, P<0.001 for all). In generalized lipodystrophy, metreleptin significantly reduced LDS (from 46 to 26 at 12 months, P<0.001). The reductions were smaller in partial lipodystrophy (from 65 to 61 at 12 months, P=0.04).

Conclusions

The LDS can reflect the severity of diverse manifestations of lipodystrophy and monitor changes following interventions.
Η πρακτική της μετατροπής διατηρητέων κτηρίων και μνημείων της Πελοποννήσου σε αρχαιολογικά και μεσαιωνικά μουσεία, ως μοχλός διάσωσης και διαχείρισης της πολιτισμικής κληρονομιάς, υπό το πρίσμα της αειφορίας και της βιώσιμης ανάπτυξης
Authors: Κουτσουμπελίτη Νικολίτσα
Published: February 2025

Στην παρούσα διατριβή επιχειρείται η εξέταση της έννοιας της επανάχρησης αναφορικά με την ένταξη των αρχαιολογικών και μεσαιωνικών μουσείων της Πελοποννήσου σε ένα προϋπάρχον κέλυφος, το οποίο είχε μία άλλη χρήση. Σκοπός της έρευνας είναι ο προσδιορισμός της σχέσης της επανάχρησης του χώρου κάτω από τη νέα του λειτουργία ως μουσειακού, οι τυχόν περιορισμοί που υπήρξαν κατά τη διαδικασία της μετατροπής του, καθώς και το αποτέλεσμα που προέκυψε από τη νέα του διαχείριση. Μέσα από την καταγραφή των μνημείων, αλλά και των διατηρητέων κτηρίων ιστορικής σημασίας που υπάρχουν στην Πελοπόννησο και έχουν μετατραπεί σε μουσεία, τονίζεται η σημασία της μετατροπής τους σε μουσειακούς χώρους, έτσι ώστε να επιτευχθεί η ιστορική και πολιτιστική τους συνέχεια και επιπλέον η αδιάσπαστη αυτή συνέχεια να αποτελέσει ζωντανό και δημιουργικό στοιχείο του σύγχρονου ανθρώπινου περιβάλλοντος. Σε αυτή την περίπτωση η επανάχρηση μπορεί να αποβεί επωφελής ως μέσο βελτίωσης της ποιότητας ζωής των κατοίκων της περιοχής και προώθησης της τουριστικής ανάπτυξης. Επιπλέον δίνεται ιδιαίτερη έμφαση στις έννοιες της αειφορίας και της βιώσιμης ανάπτυξης και πώς η πρακτική της μετατροπής μνημείων ή διατηρητέων κτηρίων σε μουσεία συμβάλλει σε αυτό. Τέλος, η έρευνα επεκτείνεται και σε προτάσεις μετατροπής εγκαταλελειμμένων ιστορικών κτηρίων σε μουσεία ή πολιτιστικά/πνευματικά κέντρα.