bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Project-based group work for enhancing students learning in project management education: an action research
Authors: Afzal Fatima , Tumpa Roksana Jahan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Using an action research framework, the study engages in iterative cycles of implementing, assessing and refining the project-based learning (PBL) model to align closely with the skill demands of the project management field. The specific objectives are to (1) apply and evaluate the design of PBL to identify areas for improvement, (2) assess PBL’s effectiveness in fostering key competencies such as teamwork, critical thinking, adaptability and real-time decision-making, (3) identify challenges encountered in PBL implementation to guide continuous refinement and (4) develop actionable recommendations that inform future course iterations.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper used action research approach to understand the design and implementation of PBL to improve student learning outcomes. Data was collected from 137 students enrolled in a postgraduate course of a project management program at a university in Australia during semester two of 2022 through an online questionnaire.

Findings

Data from 137 students confirm established benefits of PBL—improved teamwork, critical thinking and communication skills—essential to project management. Additionally, our findings highlight new benefits specific to project management education. Engaging with real-world scenarios, students developed enhanced adaptability, learning to navigate uncertainties and shifting project requirements, a key competency for project management professionals. Moreover, students showed improved real-time decision-making abilities, allowing them to make quick, informed decisions in response to dynamic project constraints. These findings suggest that PBL not only supports foundational skills but also cultivates advanced competencies aligned with the demands of professional project environments.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides an actionable framework for future research, detailing an iterative, data-informed approach that adapts PBL to meet specific educational needs in project management.

Practical implications

Educators can use these findings to design experiential PBL models that integrate real-world constraints, enhancing the development of industry-relevant skills and preparing students for the challenges of professional project management environments.

Originality/value

We declare that the manuscript titled “Project-based Group Work for Enhancing Students Learning in Project Management Education: An Action Research” is our original work and has not been submitted or published elsewhere. This study explores the benefits and implementation of PBL in project management education, offering new insights from empirical data collected at an Australian university. All sources are appropriately cited. We affirm compliance with ethical guidelines and institutional policies. This manuscript represents our genuine and original research.
The impact of doping scandals on on-site spectator satisfaction at major sport events
Authors: Schnitzer Martin , Piller Sarah , Nadegger Monica , Staudegger Julia , Bocarro Jason , Barth Michael
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study analyzes whether a doping scandal occurring during a global major sport event has an impact on on-site spectator satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The investigation was conducted among 896 on-site event spectators attending a minimum of one event at the Nordic Ski World Championships 2019. Furthermore, five members of the organizing committee were retrospectively interviewed about how they judged the doping scandals’ impact on the perception of the event and its organization.

Findings

Results revealed that the scandal did not affect the spectators’ satisfaction and perception of the event. Nevertheless, the doping scandal was mentioned as a lowlight after becoming public.

Practical implications

Even though the doping scandal did not affect spectator satisfaction, such undesirable situations should be avoided as best as possible and form part of the event organizer’s comprehensive risk management and communication strategy.

Originality/value

It can be concluded that spectator satisfaction remained quite stable while any negative impacts, if not directly affecting the spectator, seemed to be considered as somehow “part of the event.”
Does self-congruity matter for virtual influencer’s non-fungible token (NFT) purchase intentions? The role of financial literacy
Authors: Brahmana Rayenda Khresna , Kontesa Maria
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This research aims to examine how financial literacy moderates the mediation of attitude toward virtual influencers’ non-fungible tokens (NFTs) or ATB on the relationship between purchase intention and self-congruity, which includes symbolic representation, self-image congruence and emotional value. Initially, we investigated the mediation effect of ATB on the relationship between self-congruity and purchase intention. Subsequently, we analyze how financial literacy moderates this mediation process.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a sample of 383 virtual influencers’ fans and applied a partial least square structural equation model (PLS-SEM) along with robustness tests to test the research hypothesis. The analysis is based on the moderated mediation framework.

Findings

The findings are intriguing for several reasons. First, it reveals that only self-image congruence positively affects purchase intention, contrary to existing self-congruity theory literature. The relationship between self-image congruence and purchase intention is a direct relationship with no mediation effect of ATB. Second, ATB fails to mediate the self-congruity effect on purchase intention. Third, financial literacy has a negative relationship with purchase intention, indicating that fans of virtual influencers with higher financial literacy are less likely to purchase virtual influencers’ NFTs due to more critical investment evaluations. We also argue that financial literacy discards the consumption behavior effect from self-congruity variables on purchase intention.

Research limitations/implications

The study contributes to the literature by emphasizing the significance of financial literacy on purchase intention under the self-congruity framework. It also surmises that self-image congruence does matter for the purchase intention of a virtual influencer’s NFT. However, further research could validate findings by studying broader NFT investors, incorporating fandom and impulse buying variables and examining actual NFT purchases against planned behavior.

Practical implications

This research is crucial for virtual influencers’ NFT creators, marketers and fans by providing insights for evaluating virtual influencers’ creators’ decision to pursue NFT markets. The findings reveal that the creators of virtual influencers should reconsider pursuing the NFT market, as self-congruity may not be a driving factor. Notably, our findings imply that a virtual influencer’s NFT is significantly different from a virtual influencer's merchandising business.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in extending the self-congruity within the NFT context, investigating how financial literacy moderates the mediation of ATB on the self-congruity-purchase intention relationship. It challenges self-congruity theory by showing that despite fans feeling aligned with virtual influencers, high financial literacy reduces the congruence.
Environmentally responsible behaviors in hospitality and tourism service employees: an application of complexity theory
Authors: Han Heesup , Baah Nancy Grace , Kim Seongseop (Sam) , Chi Xiaoting , Jung Inyoung
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Hospitality and tourism businesses often face environmental criticism as they rely heavily on natural resources to operate. Therefore, as a recent trend, hospitality companies are trying to adopt an environmentally friendly approach. Thus, this study sought to investigate the determinants of employee intention to engage in environmentally responsible actions in the workplace, drawing on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and the value-belief norm (VBN) theory.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to discover sufficient configurations for predicting employees’ intentions.

Findings

The result has provided recipes with an efficient combination of factors that can influence employees’ intention to undertake environmentally responsible behaviors.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the body of knowledge regarding sustainable behavior among employees and sustainability in the travel and hospitality sector. The findings of this research also provide managers and operators of sustainable hospitality businesses with guidance on how to enhance their staff members' environmentally friendly behaviors at work.
A study of COVID-19-related financial distress in companies in Mexico
Authors: Rodríguez-Reyes Luis Raúl , Pasillas Mireya
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to study the business-specific features associated with financial distress in enterprises during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

A binary logistic regression model is used to analyze a random sample of 754 companies in Jalisco, Mexico. A modified backward elimination process is used to achieve parsimony. Model robustness is reviewed by running several model selection algorithms.

Findings

Layoffs raise companies’ odds of stress by 2.9 times. Being a micro business doubles companies’ odds of stress while asking for government aid implies 1.9 times higher odds. A drop in annual sales in 2021 increases the odds of closing by 1.7 times. Companies led by female owners faced 1.6 times higher odds of stress, a similar increase in odds as in companies in the manufacturing and construction sectors. Finally, businesses aged five or fewer years were 1.5 times more likely to experience stress.

Research limitations/implications

Given the study’s limited geographical scope, applying the results to broader public policy and its focalization may require external validation and deeper analysis of relevant local economic mechanisms, incentives, and constraints.

Practical implications

Findings support targeting public policy in disaster relief. For instance, financial aid programs may prioritize enterprises with some features that increase their risk of experiencing stress. Results also have implications for business strategies. For example, innovation or digitalization efforts in the company will serve the business better if they target improving sales and keeping the labor force.

Originality/value

This study contributes to closing a gap in business-specific studies on COVID-19. It underlines future research avenues, particularly in emerging issues such as heterogeneity within small business classification and gender studies.
Impact of information quality on strategic decision-making in construction organization: unravelling complexity and contingencies
Authors: Moshood Taofeeq Durojaye , Rotimi James O.B. , Shahzad Wajiha
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the crucial role of information quality in the construction industry and its impact on organizational performance. The research objectives are threefold: (1) to identify and analyse key factors influencing information quality in construction organizations; (2) to examine how information quality affects strategic decision-making processes in the industry; and (3) to assess the extent to which information quality impacts overall organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study commences by gathering data from databases such as Scopus, Elsevier, Taylor and Francis, and Emerald Insight. The collected data is then analysed using ATLAS.ti 9 to construct a model linking information quality with strategic decision-making and organization performance.

Findings

The literature review analysis reveals the complex interplay between information quality, strategic decision-making and organizational performance in the construction industry. Key findings include identifying critical factors influencing information quality, such as technological infrastructure, organizational processes and personnel skills. The study highlights the necessity for organizations to recognize potential challenges in information management and formulate strategies to overcome them.

Originality/value

This research makes a significant contribution to the field by providing a comprehensive framework for understanding the role of information quality in strategic decision-making within the construction industry. The study’s originality lies in its systematic approach to synthesizing existing literature and developing visual representations of complex relationships between information quality, decision-making processes and organizational performance.
Central banking and fragmentation of currency markets in an emerging economy
Authors: Ige Abiodun
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the role of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in the foreign currency crisis that occurred in the Nigeria from 2014 to 2017.

Design/methodology/approach

The author adopts a qualitative approach using data collected from CBN websites (e.g., official documents, reports and memorandums), newspaper articles and interviews with key market participants.

Findings

The paper leverages the concept of the earmarking of money (Zelizer, 1989) to elucidate the idiosyncratic policies of a central bank (i.e. the CBN) facing a foreign currency crisis. It demonstrates how CBN policies led to earmarking foreign currencies, which disrupted local currency as unit of account in foreign currency markets. The paper not only examines the nexus of the social relations of money and money as a unit of account within unique contexts but also how local institutions and foreign currency earmarking became mutually reconstitutive.

Practical implications

This study illustrates the dilemma many emerging countries face in managing different types of foreign currency inflows.

Social implications

With increasing transnational flows of foreign currencies, understanding how recipient nations states manage currency flows beyond their control becomes a salient issue.

Originality/value

While other studies have demonstrated earmarking at the individual level, to the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first to demonstrate earmarking of money at the macroeconomic level.
Imperfect detection in plant populations can cause misestimates of demographic rates and missed population trends: The case for Astragalus microcymbus Barneby
Authors: DePrenger‐Levin Michelle , Dawson Carol A. , Grant Thomas A. , Wunder Michael B.
Published: January 2025

Stage‐structured population models are widely used for plant demographic studies to assess population dynamics. Over the last several decades, there have been advancements in mark‐recapture methods in animal systems, but little to no use in plants because of the assumption that all individuals available for capture are seen.

We examine population trends and demographic rates of a long‐lived forb derived from conventional matrix population models compared with mark‐recapture methods.

We found a low probability of detection, primarily due to vegetative dormancy. While both models account for dormancy, only the mark‐recapture method detected a population trend.

Elasticity describes the effects of changes in vital rates on the population growth rate. Similar elasticity values are thought to buffer populations from environmental stochasticity. Vital rate estimates differed between methods, resulting in a higher growth rate with conventional methods but greater evenness among vital rate importance for the mark‐recapture method.

Synthesis and applications. This study highlights that long‐term demographic viability studies that have not addressed detectability can be revisited with minimal additional data to correct for imperfect detection. Plant studies have traditionally assumed perfect detection and may have missed trends, risk indicators, and conservation opportunities for rare plant populations.
Rooting depth and specific leaf area modify the impact of experimental drought duration on temperate grassland species
Authors: Künzi Yvonne , Zeiter Michaela , Fischer Markus , Stampfli Andreas
Published: January 2025

Due to climate change, temperate grasslands are being exposed to increasingly severe droughts. Concurrently, land‐use intensification is altering grasslands' functional composition by promoting fast‐growing, resource‐acquisitive species with high specific leaf area (SLA).

How SLA affects the ability of grassland species to resist and recover from increasingly severe droughts and if deep roots improve their drought performance remains unclear. To investigate this, we established a common‐garden field experiment including temperate grassland species with SLAs of 17.9–39.3 mm2 g−1 and maximal rooting depths of 16–252 cm. After 1.5 years, we simulated droughts for 0, 79, 134, 177 and 220 days.

Drought effects on plant performance increased with drought length, reducing the survival of green tissue and annual biomass by up to ~50% across all 32 species considered. As plant‐available water remained in deep soil layers by the end of all treatments, deep roots mitigated the negative effect of increasing drought length on productivity in the later stage of drought and favoured productivity after a longer drought. The low‐to‐high SLA trait gradient among the 16 graminoid species seemed to represent alternative survival strategies ranging from dehydration tolerance to dehydration avoidance, rather than drought sensitivity. Variable drought responses along the SLA gradient of forbs imply that multiple other traits are related to drought resistance across evolutionarily distant species.

Synthesis. Our results suggest that deep roots are beneficial for temperate grassland species subjected to longer periods without rainfall when plant‐available water is lacking in shallow soil layers but remaining in deep soil layers. In the face of increasing drought severity, we thus recommend (1) fostering deep‐rooted species in intensive grasslands on deep, productive soil and (2) directing further studies towards identifying management practices that support deep rooting in semi‐natural grasslands.
Proximity‐Ligation Metagenomic Sequence Analysis Reveals That the Antibiotic Resistome Makes Significant Transitions During Municipal Wastewater Treatment
Authors: McCorison Cassandra B. , Kim Taegyu , Donato Justin J. , LaPara Timothy M.
Published: January 2025

Shotgun and proximity‐ligation metagenomic sequencing were used to generate thousands of metagenome assembled genomes (MAGs) from the untreated wastewater, activated sludge bioreactors, and anaerobic digesters from two full‐scale municipal wastewater treatment facilities. Analysis of the antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the pool of contigs from the shotgun metagenomic sequences revealed significantly different relative abundances and types of ARGs in the untreated wastewaster compared to the activated sludge bioreactors or the anaerobic digesters (p < 0.05). In contrast, these results were statistically similar when comparing the ARGs in the pool of MAGs, suggesting that proximity‐ligation metagenomic sequencing is particularly useful for pairing ARGs with their hosts but less adept at discerning quantitative differences in ARG types and relative abundances. For example, numerous MAGs of the genera Acinetobacter, Enterococcus, Klebsiella and Pseudomonas were identified in the untreated wastewater, many of which harboured plasmid‐borne and/or chromosomal‐borne ARGs; none of these MAGs, however, were detected in the activated sludge bioreactors or anaerobic digesters. In conclusion, this research demonstrates that the antibiotic resistome undergoes significant transitions in both the relative abundance and the host organisms during the municipal wastewater treatment process.
WTAP‐Mediated m6A Modification of TRAIL‐DR4 Suppresses MH7A Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Cui Xiaoya , Xu Fengxia , Pang Xue , Fan Chang , Jiang Hui
Published: January 2025

Background

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is one of the most conserved internal RNA modifications, which has been implicated in many biological processes, such as apoptosis and proliferation. Wilms tumor 1‐associating protein (WTAP), as a key component of m6A methylation, is a nuclear protein that has been associated with the regulation of proliferation and apoptosis. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a systemic, infiltrating autoimmune disease, is characterized by synovial hyperplasia. However, little is known about the precise role of WTAP in RA. This study investigated the role of the WTAP‐mediated m6A modification of TNF‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand death receptor 4 (TRAIL‐DR4) in RA.

Method

Methyltransferase WTAP overexpression plasmids and small interfering RNAs were constructed and transfected into MH7A cells. Immunofluorescence (IF) staining, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), and Western blot were used to detect changes in the expression of WTAP, the B‐cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) gene family, BCL2‐associated X (BAX) and TRAIL‐DR4 expression, and the effects of WTAP overexpression on cell viability, cell cycle, apoptosis, and proliferation were assessed by a cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), flow cytometry, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The m6A modification of TRAIL‐DR4 was verified by m6A methylated RNA immunoprecipitation‐qPCR (MeRIP‐qPCR) and its stability was assessed by an actinomycin D assay.

Results

Overexpression of WTAP not only increased the levels of WTAP and BCL2, and decreased the levels of BAX and TRAIL‐DR4, but also significantly inhibited MH7A cell apoptosis and promoted cell viability and proliferation, while WTAP silencing led to the opposite trend. The SRAMP online database predicted that TRAIL‐DR4 has multiple potential methylation‐binding sites, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) combined with IF showed that WTAP and TRAIL‐DR4 were mainly expressed in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. MeRIP‐qPCR and actinomycin D analysis experiments revealed that WTAP could promote the m6A level of TRAIL‐DR4, decrease the stability of TRAIL‐DR4 mRNA, and subsequently inhibit apoptosis.

Conclusion

This study suggests that WTAP‐mediated m6A modification of TRAIL‐DR4 suppresses MH7A cell apoptosis. This discovery offers a new focus and avenue for the clinical treatment of RA, while also extending our understanding of the pathophysiology of RA from the standpoint of m6A alteration.
The ability of lacewing larvae to predate two pest caterpillars in relation to the prey defensive behaviour and body size
Authors: Samková Alena , Raška Jan , Opletalová Ivana , Zouhar Miloslav , Skuhrovec Jiří
Published: January 2025

Predatory larvae of the lacewing Chrysoperla carnea (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) represent an important biocontrol agent, as they prey on a wide range of prey, including economically important crop pests. However, some prey use active defensive behaviours that may reduce the effectiveness of these predators in biological control.

In this study, we aimed to investigate the anti‐predator defensive behaviour of two economically important pests, Scrobipalpa cf. ocellatella and Autographa cf. gamma (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae and Noctuidae, respectively), and the effectiveness of this behaviour in combination with their body size.

During our laboratory experiments, the caterpillars of these species defended themselves against predators using body tremors, striking the predator with the anterior part of the body and secretion (for A. cf. gamma) or regurgitation (for S. cf. ocellatella).

Interestingly, the defensive behaviour itself had no effect on hunting success. Instead, the killing of caterpillars depended mainly on the variance in their body size.

Our results suggest that predatory lacewing larvae can be effective predators of the caterpillars S. cf. ocellatella and A. cf. gamma due to their ability to overcome their defensive behaviour. However, field experiments will be necessary to determine the effectiveness of lacewings as biocontrol agent.
Morphology of the Soft Palate Tonsil Mucosa of Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu, Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Tomiate André Neri , de Oliveira Moacir Franco , da Silva José Roberto Rodrigues , Camargo Paula Oliveira , Ciena Adriano Polican
Published: January 2025

Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu, Linnaeus, 1758) is a mammalian Tayassuidae species from tropical to semi‐arid areas. The morphological features of the oral cavity in this species were identified and described. Tonsils are secondary lymphoid organs essential for contact with antigens due to food and air intake. This study aimed to describe histological characteristics and three‐dimensional morphology of the soft palate tonsil mucosa. Therefore, the samples (n = 10) were analysed by stereomicroscope for morphology, light microscopy (n = 4) for structural characterisation, and scanning electron microscopy (n = 6) to reveal three‐dimensional aspects of the epithelial surface and connective tissue cores (CTC). Our findings revealed a pair of soft palate tonsils separated by a median raphe. A keratinised squamous stratified epithelium characterised the tonsil. The epithelial surface had several orifices, and these were associated with a lymph nodule organisation. After epithelial removal, the three‐dimensional aspect of the lamina propria was evidenced by conical projections throughout the region, even on the crypt's edge and inside them. The soft palate tonsils mucosa was like the previous description; however, the revealed CTC had a conical morphology, a new feature in this organ.
Proteinuria and tubular cells: Plasticity and toxicity
Authors: Faivre Anna , Verissimo Thomas , de Seigneux Sophie
Published: January 2025

Aim

Proteinuria is the most robust predictive factors for the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and interventions targeting proteinuria reduction have shown to be the most effective nephroprotective treatments to date. While glomerular dysfunction is the primary source of proteinuria, its consequences extend beyond the glomerulus and have a profound impact on tubular epithelial cells. Indeed, proteinuria induces notable phenotypic changes in tubular epithelial cells and plays a crucial role in driving CKD progression. This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the mechanisms involved in the tubular handling of proteins and explore the potential effects of proteinuria on the function of tubular epithelial cells.

Methods

This paper is a narrative review. Litterature review was performed on PubMed from its inception until 2024, focusing on the effects of proteinuria on tubular cells.

Results

The review highlights the toxic effects of plasma proteins on tubular epithelial cells through signal transduction pathways, as well as endoplasmic reticulum stress activation, oxidative stress, and metabolic alterations. Additionally, it provides an updated understanding of the dynamic phenotypic changes occurring within the nephron in response to proteinuria.

Conclusions

By examining the intricate interplay between proteinuria and tubular epithelial cells, this review sheds light on key factors contributing to CKD progression and unveils potential targets for therapeutic interventions.
The pleiotropic effects of PCSK9 in cardiovascular diseases beyond cholesterol metabolism
Authors: Liu Gang , Yu Xiatian , Cui Chaochu , Li Xiao , Wang Tianyun , Palade Philip T. , Mehta Jawahar L. , Wang Xianwei
Published: January 2025

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with elevated low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels being a major risk factor. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) plays a critical role in regulating LDL‐C levels by promoting the degradation of hepatic low‐density lipoprotein receptors (LDLR) responsible for clearing LDL‐C from the circulation. PCSK9 inhibitors are novel lipid‐modifying agents that have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in reducing plasma LDL‐C levels and decreasing the incidence of CVD. However, the broader clinical impacts of PCSK9 functions beyond cholesterol metabolism, including both desired and undesired effects from therapeutic PCSK9 inhibition, underscore the urgent necessity to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Recent studies have shown that local PCSK9 in the vascular system can interact with other receptors such as CD36, LRP‐1, and ABCA1. This provides new evidence supporting the potential contribution of PCSK9 to CVD through LDLR‐independent signaling pathways. Therefore, this review aimed to outline the diverse effects of PCSK9 on CVD and discuss the underlying mechanisms in non‐cholesterol‐related processes, which will provide a rational basis for its long‐term pharmacological inhibition in the clinic.
Use of a Non‐Endoscopic Capsule‐Sponge Triage Test for Reflux Symptoms: Results From the NHS England Prospective Real‐World Evaluation
Authors: Gourgiotis Vlasios , Graham Charlotte , Foerster Kristen ,   NHS England Pilot and NHS England Oversight Group, Fitzgerald Rebecca C. , Harvey Rory , Morris Danielle L.
Published: January 2025

Background

Acid reflux is a common presentation in primary care leading to a high volume of referrals to endoscopy that are often normal.

Aims

To determine whether a non‐endoscopic capsule sponge biomarker test could triage patients with low‐risk reflux symptoms, reduce endoscopy waiting lists and identify Barrett's oesophagus in a real‐world setting.

Methods

Patients with reflux symptoms on NHS endoscopy waiting lists who were offered a capsule sponge (test group) between February 2021 and August 2022 were included in this national multicentre prospective cohort study and compared with eligible patients on the standard endoscopy pathway (counterfactual group).

Results

Two thousand one hundred seventy patients from 23 hospitals undertook a capsule sponge triage test and submitted follow‐up data, of whom 1694 (78%) were discharged without endoscopy and 476 (22%) were referred for endoscopy. In a detailed subgroup analysis 1411/1549 (92%) attended and successfully swallowed the capsule of whom 307/1411 (21.8%) required endoscopy. Of 111 patients with positive capsule sponge biomarker results who had endoscopy, 19.8% had Barrett's oesophagus. In comparison, in patients with negative sponge biomarkers who were referred for endoscopy due to ongoing symptoms, none had Barrett's oesophagus (p = 0.0002). Eighty‐two percent surveyed (267/357) were satisfied with the alternative pathway.

Conclusions

Capsule sponge triage is feasible, safe and acceptable. It substantially reduces the endoscopy burden for routine reflux referrals with a favourable diagnostic yield for Barrett's oesophagus. Longer term follow‐up will help to confidently assess the impact of the programme and place of capsule sponge in the diagnostic pathway.
Effects of pasture‐burning management on anuran communities in subtropical Brazilian grasslands
Authors: Cansan Guilherme , Moser Camila Fernanda , de Oliveira Juliano Morales , Tozetti Alexandro Marques
Published: January 2025

Anthropogenic fire is a worldwide event that affects many ecosystems and organisms. In Southern Brazil, grassland management with fire has been highly employed since the mid‐18th century. Although the practice is regulated by federal law (prescribed fire), there is no detailed information about the impacts of this practice on the small, non‐volant fauna. We evaluated the effect of fire management on anuran species richness and community composition in Brazilian grassland areas that have adopted this practice for more than 15 years. Our results show that burning practices lead to a reduction of anuran richness. About 37% of the species occur exclusively in sites free of fire. Sites with fire management have low densities of taller grass and shrubs, which could reduce habitat availability for some anuran species. Nestedness and turnover components of beta diversity did not differ within and between treatments, but there was a tendency for a nestedness organization of the community in burned sites, suggesting that sites with fire management are a subsample of sites where fire is absent. Our results pointed out that prescribed fire practices have potentially negative effects on the anuran diversity. These results suggest that the changes in vegetation, in particular percentages of shrub cover, affect habitat suitability for some species. Therefore, anuran communities tend to become less diverse and lack arboreal species where fire occurs.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
Comparison of 11C‐Acetate and 18F‐FDG PET/CT for Immune Infiltration and Prognosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Xu Hao , Wang Hao , Jiang Dong‐Lang , Wu Yan‐Fei , Xie Sun‐Zhe , Su Ying‐Han , Guan Yi‐Hui , Xie Fang , Zhu Wen‐Wei , Qin Lun‐Xiu
Published: January 2025

Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, making it a challenge to noninvasively monitor immune infiltration. Metabolic reprogramming in cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is closely linked to immune status. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the ability of carbon‐11 acetate (11C‐acetate) and fluorine‐18 fluorodeoxyglucose (18F‐FDG) PET/CT findings in predicting overall survival (OS) and immune infiltration in HCC patients. Totally 32 patients who underwent preoperative 18F‐FDG and 11C‐acetate PET/CT, followed by liver resection for HCC, were prospectively enrolled at authors' institute between January 2019 and October 2021. Tracer uptake was qualified. Densities of CD3+, CD8+, and granzyme B+ CD8+ immune cells were assessed and the Immunoscore was defined by combining the densities of CD3+ and CD8+ in tumor interior (TI) and invasion margin (IM). Patients with avid HCCs in 11C‐acetate PET/CT demonstrated a longer OS. Those with only 11C‐acetate‐avid HCCs exhibited a longer OS compared to those with only 18F‐FDG uptake. In contrast to 18F‐FDG uptake, 11C‐acetate uptake was positively associated with CD3+, CD8+, and granzyme B+ CD8+ cell infiltration. Patients with a higher Immunoscore exhibited a longer OS and an increased uptake of 11C‐acetate rather than 18F‐FDG. The sensitivity of 11C‐acetate PET/CT in the detection of patients with immune infiltration was superior to that of 18F‐FDG PET/CT (88% [21 of 24] vs. 58% [14 of 24]). These data show that preoperative 11C‐acetate PET/CT may be a promising approach for the evaluation of immune status and postoperative outcome of HCCs.
Local excision for T1 rectal cancer: A population‐based study of practice patterns and oncological outcomes
Authors: Brennan Kelly E. , Farooq Ameer O. , Mckechnie Tyler J. , Wiseman Vanessa H. , Kong Weidong , Bankhead Clare R. , Heneghan Carl J. , Rai Mandip S. , Patel Sunil V.
Published: January 2025

Aim

Local excision (LE) for T1 rectal cancer may be recommended in those with low‐risk disease, while resection is typically recommended in those with a high risk of luminal recurrence or lymph node metastasis. The aim of this work was to compare survival between resection and LE.

Method

This was a population‐based retrospective cohort study set in the Canadian province of Ontario. Patients were individuals with T1Nx rectal cancer between 2010 and 2014 and demographics, disease characteristics, treatments and outcomes were determined using linked administrative databases. This study does not include clinical information regarding individual patient treatment decisions. The main outcome measure was overall survival (OS).

Results

A total of 719 patients were identified, including 359 with upfront resection, 113 with LE and immediate resection (<90 days) and 247 with LE with definitive intent. The majority of LEs were performed via colonoscopy. Piecemeal excision (42% vs. 49%, p = 0.28) and positive margin (50% vs. 77%, p < 0.01) rates were high in both LE groups, with the highest rate in those with immediate resection. The prevalence of poor differentiation (<5%, p = 0.70) and lymphovascular invasion (LVI) (14%, p = 0.80) was similar across groups. In those with LE with definitive intent, 21% ultimately underwent resection (median 150 days, interquartile range 114–181 days) and 4% received radiation. There was no difference in 5‐year OS between groups (resection 83.2% vs. LE and immediate resection 82.3% vs. definitive LE 83.3%; p = 0.33). Adjusted analyses demonstrated no association between approach and survival [definitive intent LE hazard ratio (HR) 0.97 (95% CI 0.70–1.35), LE and immediate resection HR 0.97 (95% CI 0.60–1.45), upfront resection HR 1 (Ref); p = 0.98]. Differentiation, piecemeal excisions and LVI were not associated with OS in the LE groups.

Conclusion

There were no observed differences in survival between those who underwent resection, LE and immediate resection and definitive intent LE. Although, these are observational data, they call into question the reflexive decision to offer radical resection for those with suspected T1 rectal cancer.
Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics of NIM‐1324 an Oral LANCL2 Agonist in a Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Phase I Clinical Trial
Authors: Leber Andrew , Hontecillas Raquel , Tubau‐Juni Nuria , Bassaganya‐Riera Josep
Published: January 2025

NIM‐1324 is an oral investigational new drug for autoimmune disease that targets the Lanthionine Synthetase C‐like 2 (LANCL2) pathway. Through activation of LANCL2, NIM‐1324 modulates CD4+ T cells to bias signaling and cellular metabolism toward increased immunoregulatory function while providing similar support to phagocytes. In primary human immune cells, NIM‐1324 reduces type I interferon and inflammatory cytokine (IL‐6, IL‐8) production. Oral NIM‐1324 was assessed for safety, tolerability and PK in normal healthy volunteers in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial. Subjects (n = 57) were randomized into five single ascending dose (SAD) cohorts (250, 500, 750, 1000, 1500 mg, p.o.) and three multiple ascending dose (MAD) cohorts (250, 750, 1500 mg QD for 7 days, p.o.). NIM‐1324 did not increase total AE rates in individual cohorts or pooled active groups in SAD or MAD with no SAEs in the study. Oral NIM‐1324 dosing does not result in any clinically significant findings by biochemistry, coagulation, ECG, hematology, or urinalysis when compared to placebo. Plasma exposure, as measured by area under the curve from 0 to 24 h (AUC0‐24), scaled dose proportionally over 250–1000 mg. At 250 mg, NIM‐1324 successfully engaged the target with an upregulation of Lancl2 and key transcriptional biomarkers in whole blood. In conclusion, NIM‐1324 treatment is well‐tolerated up to daily oral doses of at least 1500 mg (nominal), a ≥ six‐fold margin over the anticipated therapeutic dose, and 1000 mg (maximum observed exposure), at least a four‐fold margin over the anticipated therapeutic dose with no dose limiting toxicities.
New Insights Into Hepatic Impairment (HI) Trials
Authors: Haertter Sebastian , Lobmeyer Maximilian , Ferslew Brian C. , Mitra Pallabi , Arnhold Thomas
Published: January 2025

Hepatic impairment (HI) trials are traditionally part of the clinical pharmacology development to assess the need for dose adaptation in people with impaired metabolic capacity due to their diseased liver. This review aimed at looking into the data from dedicated HI studies, cluster these data into various categories and connect the effect by HI with reported pharmacokinetics (PK) properties in order to identify patterns that may allow waiver, extrapolations, or adapted HI study designs. Based on a ratio ≥ 2 or ≤ 0.5 in AUC or Cmax between hepatically impaired participants/healthy controls these were considered “positive” or “negative”. In case of more than one HI severity stratum per compound included in the HI trial, the comparison of the AUC ratios for mild, moderate, or severe HI were used to investigate the increase across HI categories. For the in total 436 hits, relevant PK information could be retrieved for 273 compounds of which 199 were categorized negative, 69 positive ups and 5 positive downs. Fourteen out of 69 compounds demonstrated a steep increase in the AUC ratios from mild to severe HI. Compounds demonstrating a steep increase typically had a high plasma protein binding of > 95%, high volume of distribution, lower absolute bioavailability, minor elimination via the kidneys, were predominantly metabolized by CYP3A4 or CYP2D6 and the majority of these compounds were substrates of OATP1B1. While for compounds with steep increase studies in all severity strata may be warranted they may also offer the potential to estimate the appropriate doses in an HI trial. On the other hand, for compounds with slow or no increase across HI severity strata, reduced HI trials may be justified, e.g. only testing PK in moderate HI.
Exploring the potential role of C‐peptide in type 2 diabetes management
Authors: Lin YeunYi , McCrimmon Rory J. , Pearson Ewan R.
Published: January 2025

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a complex condition characterised by the interaction between insulin resistance and beta cell dysfunction. C‐peptide, a key biomarker of endogenous insulin secretion, has a role in diagnosing type 1 diabetes (T1D). However, its utility in T2D has not been extensively studied. This review provides an overview of the progression of C‐peptide levels over time in T2D and discuss its interpretation in clinical settings. We reviewed current evidence on the relationship between C‐peptide levels and response to antidiabetic drugs, as well as the utility of C‐peptide testing in T2D treatment strategies. We also reviewed available evidence for C‐peptide in predicting future outcomes in T2D. In this review, we hoped to clarify the value of C‐peptide testing in understanding and managing T2D and to highlight areas where further research is needed.
Advancing Women's Social and Political Rights Through a Reinterpretation of Islamic Law: Ayatollah Jannaati's View of Female Political Authority in Shiite Islam
Authors: Goudarzi Masoumeh Rad
Published: January 2025

One of the most important questions on which Muslim reformers have challenged traditional jurisprudence is that of the institutionalized discrimination against women, with respect to their social and political rights under Islamic jurisprudence. Traditional jurisprudents cite specific verses from the Qur'an and Hadiths and consider the political and social management of Islamic societies to be exclusive to men. Ayatollah Jannaati is one of Iran's leading Shiite Muslim jurisprudents to call for a review of women's rights, based on dynamic jurisprudence, and declares that women, just like men, may hold the highest religious, political, and social positions in Islamic countries, and enjoy equal rights. This article adopts a theological and hermeneutical approach, and references many primary sources in Persian, including Jannaati's books, articles, and interviews, to determine how the new reading of the Qur'an and Hadith, and his unique theological and epistemological presuppositions, have enabled him to issue such a fatwa regarding the political and social rights of women under Islam.
Prognostic scores in patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation: An external validation study
Authors: Fernández‐Avilés Consuelo , Ruiz Ortiz Martín , Fernández Ruiz Ana , Heredia Campos Gloria , Resúa Collazo Adriana , González‐Manzanares Rafael , Delgado Ortega Mónica , Rodríguez Almodóvar Ana , Esteban Martínez Fátima , Maestre Luque Luis Carlos , Morán Salinas Alberto , Torres Zamudio Alberto , Herrera Flores Javier , Díaz Andrade Manuel , López Aguilera José , Anguita Sánchez Manuel , Pan Álvarez‐Osorio Manuel , Mesa Rubio Dolores
Published: January 2025

Background

Four scores have been published in 2022 for assessing mortality risk of patients with tricuspid regurgitation (TR): the TRI‐SCORE, those reported by Hochstadt and Wang and the TRIO score. Our objective was to perform an external validation of available scores for predicting mortality and the combined endpoint of mortality and heart failure (HF) admission, in an independent cohort of patients with severe TR and to compare their discriminative ability.

Methods

Discriminative ability of the scores for predicting events was assessed by means of receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves.

Results

The validation cohort retrospectively included 614 consecutive patients (69 ± 13 years, 72% women) with severe TR studied with echocardiography in a tertiary care hospital and followed for up to 14 years (median 5 years, p25‐75 2–7 years), with 358 deaths and 620 HF admissions on follow‐up. Discriminative abilities for predicting death (C‐statistic .72 [95% CI .68–.76] for the TRI‐SCORE; .75 [.71–.78] for the Hochstadt score; .72 [.68–.76] for the Wang score; and .74 [.70–.78] for the TRIO score, p < .0005 for all) or the combined endpoint (C‐statistic .74 [.70–.78]; .74 [.70–.78], .73 [.69–.77] and .76 [.72–.80], respectively, p < .0005 for all) on follow‐up were statistically significant for all of them. Paired comparisons among them for predicting both endpoints were all non‐significant.

Conclusions

All tested scores showed significant and similar discriminative ability for predicting the combined endpoint of mortality or HF admission in this independent validation study of patients with severe TR.
A scoping review evaluating the current state of gut microbiota and its metabolites in valvular heart disease physiopathology
Authors: Chong‐Nguyen Caroline , Yilmaz Bahtiyar , Coles Bernadette , Sokol Harry , MacPherson Andrew , Siepe Matthias , Reineke David , Mosbahi Selim , Tomii Daijiro , Nakase Masaaki , Atighetchi Sarah , Ferro Cyril , Wingert Christoph , Gräni Christoph , Pilgrim Thomas , Windecker Stephan , Blasco Hélène , Dupuy Camille , Emond Patrick , Banz Yara , Losmanovà Tereza , Döring Yvonne , Siontis George C. M.
Published: January 2025

Background

The human microbiome is crucial in regulating intestinal and systemic functions. While its role in cardiovascular disease is better understood, the link between intestinal microbiota and valvular heart diseases (VHD) remains largely unexplored.

Methods

Peer‐reviewed studies on human, animal or cell models analysing gut microbiota profiles published up to April 2024 were included. Eligible studies used 16S rRNA or shotgun sequencing, metabolite profiling by mass spectrometry, and examined osteogenesis or fibrosis signalling in valve cells. Methods and findings were qualitatively analysed, with data charted to summarize study design, materials and outcomes.

Results

Thirteen studies were included in the review: five human, three animal and five in vitro. Of the nine studies on calcific aortic stenosis (CAS), elevated trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO) levels were linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular events in cohort studies, with CAS patients showing higher levels of Bacteroides plebeius, Enterobacteriaceae, Veillonella dispar and Prevotella copri. In vivo, TMAO promoted aortic valve fibrosis, while tryptophan derivatives stimulated osteogenic differentiation and interleukin‐6 secretion in valvular interstitial cells. Two studies on rheumatic mitral valve disease found altered microbiota profiles and lower short‐chain fatty acid levels, suggesting potential impacts on immune regulation. Two studies on Barlow's mitral valve disease in animal models revealed elevated TMAO levels in dogs with congestive heart failure, reduced Paraprevotellaceae, increased Actinomycetaceae and dysbiosis involving Turicibacter and E. coli.

Conclusions

TMAO has been mainly identified as a prognostic marker in VHD. Gut microbiota dysbiosis has been observed in various forms of VHD and deserve further study.