bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Afadin-deficient retinas exhibit severe neuronal lamination defects but preserve visual functions
Authors: Ueno Akiko , Sakuta Konan , Ono Hiroki , Tokumoto Haruki , Watanabe Mikiya , Nishimoto Taketo , Konishi Toru , Mizuno Shunsuke , Miyoshi Jun , Takai Yoshimi , Tachibana Masao , Koike Chieko
Published: December 2024

Neural lamination is a common feature of the central nervous system (CNS), with several subcellular structures, such as adherens junctions (AJs), playing a role in this process. The retina is also heavily laminated, but it remains unclear how laminar formation impacts retinal cell morphology, synapse integrity, and overall retinal function. In this study, we demonstrate that the loss of afadin, a key component of AJs, leads to significant pathological changes. These include the disruption of outer retinal lamination and a notable decrease as well as mislocalization of photoreceptors, their outer segments, and photoreceptor synapses. Interestingly, despite these severe impairments, we recorded small local field potentials, including the a- and b-waves. We also classified ganglion cells into ON, ON-OFF, and OFF types based on their firing patterns in response to light stimuli. Additionally, we successfully characterized the receptive fields of certain retinal ganglion cells. Overall, these findings provide the first evidence that retinal circuit function can be partially preserved even when there are significant disruptions in retinal lamination and photoreceptor synapses. Our results indicate that retinas with severely altered morphology still retain some capacity to process light stimuli.
Afadin Sorts Different Retinal Neuron Types into Accurate Cellular Layers
Authors: Lum Matthew R. , Patel Sachin H. , Graham Hannah K. , Zhao Mengya , Yi Yujuan , Li Liang , Yao Melissa , La Torre Anna , Santina Luca Della , Han Ying , Hu Yang , Welsbie Derek S. , Duan Xin
Published: December 2024

Neurons use cell-adhesion molecules (CAMs) to interact with other neurons and the extracellular environment: the combination of CAMs specifies migration patterns, neuronal morphologies, and synaptic connections across diverse neuron types. Yet little is known regarding the intracellular signaling cascade mediating the CAM recognitions at the cell surface across different neuron types. In this study, we investigated the neural developmental role of Afadin1–4, a cytosolic adapter protein that connects multiple CAM families to intracellular F-actin. We introduced the conditional Afadin mutant5to an embryonic retinal Cre, Six3-Cre6–8. We reported that the mutants lead to the scrambled retinal neuron distribution, including Bipolar Cells (BCs), Amacrine Cells (ACs), and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), across three cellular layers of the retina. This scrambled pattern was first reported here at neuron-type resolution. Importantly, the mutants do not display deficits for BCs, ACs, or RGCs in terms of neural fate specifications or survival. Additionally, the displayed RGC types still maintain synaptic partners with putative AC types, indicating that other molecular determinants instruct synaptic choices independent of Afadin. Lastly, there is a significant decline in visual function and mis-targeting of RGC axons to incorrect zones of the superior colliculus, one of the major retinorecipient areas. Collectively, our study uncovers a unique cellular role of Afadin in sorting retinal neuron types into proper cellular layers as the structural basis for orderly visual processing.
Cross comparison of imaging strategies of mitochondria inC. elegansduring aging
Authors: Kim Juri , Dutta Naibedya , Vega Matthew , Bong Andrew , Averbuhk Maxim , Barahona Rebecca Aviles , Alcala Athena , Holmes Jacob T. , Garcia Gilberto , Higuchi-Sanabria Ryo
Published: December 2024

Mitochondria are double membrane-bound organelles with pleiotropic roles in the cell, including energy production through aerobic respiration, calcium signaling, metabolism, proliferation, immune signaling, and apoptosis. Dysfunction of mitochondria is associated with numerous physiological consequences and drives various diseases, and is one of twelve biological hallmarks of aging, linked to aging pathology. There are many distinct changes that occur to the mitochondria during aging including changes in mitochondrial morphology, which can be used as a robust and simple readout of mitochondrial quality and function. Although mitochondrial morphology alone cannot be used to conclude the quality of mitochondria, it is highly correlated with mitochondrial function whereby mitochondria exhibit increased fragmentation with age in multiple cell types of the nematodeC. elegans.Thus,C. elegansserve as a robust model for rapidly measuring mitochondrial morphology changes during aging. To standardize imaging methods for mitochondrial morphology inC. elegans, we provide a detailed comparative characterization of several transgenic constructs, highlighting benefits and caveats for aging biology studies.

Summary Blurb

This study evaluates mitochondrial imaging inC. elegansduring aging, comparing various transgenic constructs for tissue-specific mitochondrial visualization. The findings highlight technical considerations, imaging method standardization, and the utility ofC. elegansas a robust model for studying mitochondrial dynamics.
Entrepreneurial leadership and employee performance; the role of innovative work behavior among employees in the food and beverages industry
Authors: Adu Isaac Nyarko , Boakye Kwame Owusu , Yeboah Samuel , Twumasi Evelyn
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study seeks to examine the mediating role of innovative work behavior (IWB) in the relationship between entrepreneurial leadership (EL) and employee performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted the cross-sectional research design of quantitative approach where data were collected from 344 employees in Ghana’s food and beverages industry. The retrieved data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (partial least squares structural equation modeling).

Findings

Mainly, the study revealed that IWB positively and significantly mediated the relationship between EL and contextual and task performance (TP). The study found that EL has a significant positive relationship with task and contextual performance (CP). This indicates that leaders who demonstrate entrepreneurial qualities, such as innovation, proactiveness and risk-taking, are likely to enhance their team’s ability to complete specific tasks effectively (TP) and contribute positively to the broader organizational environment (CP).

Practical implications

Practically, organizations that prioritize EL qualities among managers and supervisors in the form of providing training programs, coaching and mentorship opportunities that emphasize innovation, risk-taking and pro-activeness in decision-making significantly influence their employee performance.

Originality/value

The originality and value of this study lie in its comprehensive exploration of the relationship between EL, IWB and performance outcomes.
Interrogating access: a critical disability studies approach to information practices research
Authors: May Emma
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the relevance of theoretical developments from critical disability studies to information practices scholarship, particularly that which is attuned to how systems of power and inequality create barriers to information. More specifically, this paper aims to interrogate the solutionist ethos that underlies the narrow focus on information access within research concerning information practices and marginalization.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper follows a critical interpretation synthesis (CIS) review format, which aligns with the overarching interpretivist research objectives. The CIS review method opens up modes of interdisciplinary analysis that question dominant narratives and assumptions within the literature. In the paper, several concepts from critical disability studies are discussed due to their relevance to key concerns of information practices research. These include the political/relational model of disability, bodymind and crip politics. The theoretical framework of political/relational information access outlined in this paper connects and draws comparisons between the above concepts.

Findings

The paper develops the political/relational model of information access, which interrogates dominant narratives that situate information as a resolve for marginalization. Extending insights from critical disability studies and activism, the framework underscores how access to information and information more broadly are sites of collective contestation that are constantly in flux. Political/relational information access situates information and access as political and relational entities through which to collectively refuse the hierarchies of value and normalizing logics attached to them.

Originality/value

The connections between critical disability studies and information practices research have been previously underexplored. The literature review develops the political/relational model of information access, which extends insights from critical disability studies to the growing areas of critical inquiry within information practices scholarship and library and information science research more broadly.
Cheese eK-Book: a new web-based medium for capitalising on, structuring and transferring cheesemaking knowledge and know-how
Authors: Baudrit Cédric , Fernandez Christophe , Couteaux Julien , Buche Patrice , Bel Nadege , Charles Cecile , Notz Eric
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to address the challenges faced by the cheese industry, particularly concerning the preservation and transfer of traditional cheesemaking knowledge. It emphasises the need for innovative solutions in sustainably managing knowledge and skills amidst changing demographic and technological landscapes.

Design/methodology/approach

Our approach consists of developing and implementing a digital tool, the cheese eK-Book, which is designed to capture, structure and disseminate cheesemaking knowledge. This tool is based on a semantic network and is accessible via smartphones and tablets and aims to facilitate continuous learning, knowledge transfer and collaboration across diverse stakeholders in the cheese production sector.

Findings

The study highlights several critical findings. Traditional cheesemaking knowledge is currently at risk due to a number of factors, including the ageing of skilled workers, a lack of succession planning and pressures from globalisation and industrialisation. The European dairy sector is evolving towards more specialised and automated production, requiring a skilled workforce capable of adapting to these changes. There is a significant gap between traditional cheese makers and research institutions, hindering the adoption of new technologies and best practices. The cheese eK-Book offers a promising solution to these challenges by preserving knowledge, supporting continuous learning and enhancing collaboration between industry stakeholders and educational/research institutions. The tool facilitates access to scientific knowledge, promotes work–life balance by offering a range of flexible learning opportunities and supports tailored training programmes based on individual users’ needs.

Originality/value

This article contributes original insights by proposing a comprehensive digital solution tailored to the specific, current needs of the cheese industry. By integrating modern technology with traditional knowledge, the cheese eK-Book not only preserves expertise but also fosters innovation and sustainability within the sector. It bridges the gap between practical cheesemaking skills and contemporary scientific understanding, addressing critical challenges such as knowledge retention, succession planning and workforce development in a rapidly evolving industry landscape. The strength of the Cheese eK-Book lies in its capacity to communicate knowledge, traditions and teachings across generations. This transfer of knowledge and skills plays a crucial role in preserving heritage and fostering connections across different generations within a community.
A multilevel investigation of the relationship between the strength of ethical organizational culture and psychological safety: Do simple organizational interventions work?
Authors: Blom Andre B. C. , Curseu Petru Lucian
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study examines in a cross-lagged design the relationship between ethical organizational culture (EOC), psychological safety (PS) and two organizational interventions aimed at fostering employee engagement and integration as well as increasing decision transparency and employee participation in work design (labeled as FIKA and “Start, Stop & Go”).

Design/methodology/approach

We use a cross-lagged design in which we assessed (in a sample of 581 employees) the strength of EOC before deploying two informal interventions aimed at stimulating the informal interactions between leaders and their followers and guiding participative reflections on the progress of work activities. After deployment, we assessed PS in relation to leaders, colleagues and customers as well as the strength of EOC, using the same scales as before the intervention.

Findings

Results show that a strong ethical culture promotes PS at the individual as well as at the group level. Although the interventions did not significantly change the strength of EOC, they do enhance the positive association between EOC and PS experienced in relation to the leaders.

Research limitations/implications

More research is needed on the long(er)-term effects of the interventions studied to determine their lasting impact on EOC and PS. In addition, more research is needed on specific mechanisms through which organizational interventions potentially foster the emergence of EOC.

Practical implications

These findings highlight the importance of EOC in promoting PS and call for more research on the effectiveness of specific organizational interventions aimed at increasing the strength of EOC. Such interventions could help organizations create more supportive, inclusive and productive work environments.

Social implications

EOC is a key antecedent of (socially) responsible organizational practices and understanding the interplay between EOC and PS is essential for promoting a healthier work culture and improving employee well-being and ultimately organizational financial and non-financial performance.

Originality/value

These findings highlight a systematic attempt to test the effect of informal organizational interventions on the development of ethical values in organizations and present initial empirical evidence concerning the relation between the strength of EOC and PS.
Inclusive artistic space: a professional development environment based on collaboration between schools and artistic institutions
Authors: Miquel Ester , Sanahuja Gavaldà Josep Maria , Moron-Velasco Mar
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study, part of an international effort to bring art and culture closer to everyone, aims to analyze interprofessional collaboration between schools and artistic institutions in the development of inclusive artistic spaces. It focuses on identifying opportunities for professional development and student learning.

Design/methodology/approach

From the theoretical framework of collaboration and professional development, this study follows a qualitative case study design. It analyses the design, implementation and evaluation of three inclusive artistic projects in Barcelona. An interpretive qualitative methodology is used to collect and analyze data from 30 professionals from artistic institutions and schools, and 85 students. Data were obtained through video recordings, field notes and group and individual interviews.

Findings

The results demonstrated a strengthening and stimulation of interprofessional collaboration networks, providing the community with new learning spaces that are more open, flexible and inclusive. Furthermore, sharing knowledge and methodological strategies not only promotes professional development but also positively impacts students’ outcomes. Inclusive artistic spaces serve as a crucial platform for this purpose, offering an environment where artistic expression and cultural engagement intersect with educational goals.

Practical implications

The findings have two clear practical implications: firstly, to build inclusive artistic spaces in the community based on collaboration between schools and artistic institutions; and secondly, to generate a reference framework for professional development among different types of community institutions.

Originality/value

This paper adopts a practice theory approach to study interprofessional collaboration between schools and artistic institutions, giving voice not only to professionals but also to students.
Examining the emotion–entrepreneurial intention link using the theory of planned behavior
Authors: Ukil Minhajul Islam , Ullah Muhammad Shariat , Islam K.M. Zahidul , Razzak B M , Saridakis George , Alamoudi Saeed M
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Entrepreneurship is often seen as a journey filled with emotions. However, the literature lacks an empirical framework for how emotions relate to entrepreneurial intention. Drawing upon an extended view of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) that emotions may have a direct and/or indirect effect on intention, this study investigates how positive and negative emotions influence entrepreneurial intention.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying the partial least squares structural equation model in SmartPLS 4, the hypothesized relationships were examined with a sample of 553 survey respondents from Bangladesh during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. All respondents were Bangladeshi nationals.

Findings

This study found that positive emotions have both significant direct and indirect effects, whereas negative emotions only have a significant indirect effect on entrepreneurial intention through personal attitudes and perceived behavioral control. Contrary to the extant understanding, this study found no significant relationship between subjective norms and entrepreneurial intention. Notably, the results did not vary between the during- and post-COVID-19 periods.

Originality/value

This study adds valuable insights into the relatively unexplored field of entrepreneurial intention by extending the TPB and demonstrating how emotions relate to entrepreneurial intention.
International experience, degree of digitalization and speed of internationalization
Authors: Ding Zhenkuo , Yang Xiaoying , Huang Sheng , Ouyang Xiaohua
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate (1) whether the different dimensions of internationalization experience have different effects on internationalization speed? (2) And how the degree of digitalization plays a moderating role in these relationships?

Design/methodology/approach

The authors test the hypotheses on a sample of 431 Chinese listed companies export data from 2007 to 2016, using multiple regression analysis.

Findings

The international expansion experience to developed economies will accelerate the internationalization speed of MNCs, while international expansion experience to emerging economies has an inverted U-shaped relationship with internationalization speed. The digitalization degree weakens the relationship between international experience and internationalization speed, whether it is international expansion experience to developed or emerging economies.

Originality/value

By decomposing the dimensions of international experience and considering the degree of digitalization as a new moderating variable, the paper helps to clarify the debate on the relationship between international experience and speed of internationalization, thus contributing to the internationalization speed literature and the digital technology perspective. Revealing the process of international experience affecting internationalization speed has implications for MNCs to achieve high-quality and rapid internationalization.
Rethinking energy security in the condition of high climate risk: fresh insights from new estimation
Authors: Ha Le Thanh
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The objective of this investigation is to discover the impacts of energy security (ES) pursuit on climate risk (CR). Notably, we also evaluate the role of institutional quality in signifying the effects of ES on CR.

Design/methodology/approach

Six metrics to assess the availability, acceptability, developability and sustainability of energy security are used while we consider nine dimensions of climate risk. We employ several econometric methods, namely the panel-corrected standard error (PCSE) and feasible generalized least squares (FGLS), to a global sample of 65 countries during the 2014–2021 period. Furthermore, long-term impacts are estimated using the dynamic fixed effects (DFE) estimate, which is applied using the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) technique.

Findings

The estimation outcomes demonstrate that the pursuit of ES mitigates CR. By using a variety of econometric methodologies and using additional explanation factors, we obtain reliable conclusions. The outcomes propose that the favourable impacts of ES initiatives are more likely to exist in the long run. Notably, ES impacts are more substantial in nations with well-designed institutional systems.

Practical implications

Our study is critical since the findings offer pertinent implications for policymakers and authorities in designing appropriate policies regarding energy security initiatives on the path towards climate resilience and environmental sustainability.

Originality/value

Our work adds to the body of literature by considering various cross-country characteristics, with a focus on variations in the degree of energy security. Our study adds to the previous paper on the effects of climate modification by pointing out the way those heterogeneities shape the magnitude of harm attributed to climate shifts. Specifically, we examine how these differences influence climate modification’s effects on the threat to power safety and the effectiveness of policy strategies. By using this method, we can offer more individualized policy implications that consider variations across nations in the formulation of policies.
The Big 5 personality traits and investment biases: the role of financial literacy
Authors: Baker H. Kent , Kathpal Shashank , Akhtar Asif
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates the associations among the Big 5 personality traits (neuroticism, conscientiousness, agreeableness, openness to experience and extroversion), nine prominent investment biases and the moderating role of financial literacy.

Design/methodology/approach

We used survey data from 475 individual investors in India based on various benchmarked scales in the literature and structural equation modeling to evaluate the desired relationship between the constructs.

Findings

Our evidence shows that the extroversion personality trait is the most vulnerable to behavioral biases, and overconfidence bias affects individual Indian investors the most. Financial literacy is positively associated with two biases (risk aversion and representativeness bias) and moderates the relationship between two personality traits (extroversion and agreeableness) and risk aversion.

Research limitations/implications

Our study has limitations. First, it does not examine financial literacy in detail. Therefore, researchers should examine financial literacy within larger frameworks than those used in our study. Second, we confined our analysis to the Big 5 personality traits and nine behavioral biases. Our selection of biases to include in the study involved some subjectivity. Third, we limited our analysis to Indian investors. Researchers should replicate our study to see if its findings are generalizable in other countries with differing characteristics. Our findings call for a more careful examination of the circumstances behind which personality traits manifest in specific bias.

Practical implications

Investment advisors can help their clients make rational investment decisions by guiding them to deal with their investment biases.

Social implications

Improving financial literacy could help investors avoid the pitfalls of behavioral biases and increase their performance in the stock market.

Originality/value

This study is the first to provide a comprehensive framework that examines the relationship between personality traits and investor biases and the moderating role of financially literate investors.
Nuclear respiratory factor‐1 (NRF1) induction as a powerful strategy to deter mitochondrial dysfunction and senescence in mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Lee Hyunho , Massaro Matteo , Abdelfattah Nourhan , Baudo Gherardo , Liu Haoran , Yun Kyuson , Blanco Elvin
Published: December 2024

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are promising candidates for regenerative therapies due to their self‐renewal and differentiation capabilities. Pathological microenvironments expose MSCs to senescence‐inducing factors such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in MSC functional decline and loss of stemness. Oxidative stress leads to mitochondrial dysfunction, a hallmark of senescence, and is prevalent in aging tissues characterized by elevated ROS levels. We hypothesized that overexpression of nuclear respiratory factor‐1 (NRF1), a driver of mitochondrial biogenesis, could metabolically potentiate MSCs and prevent MSC senescence. Single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐Seq) revealed that MSCs transfected with NRF1 messenger RNA (mRNA) exhibited upregulated expression of genes associated with oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), decreased glycolytic markers, and suppression of senescence‐related pathways. To test whether NRF1 induction could mitigate stress‐induced premature senescence, we exposed MSCs to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and validated our findings in a replicative senescence model. NRF1 mRNA transfection significantly increased mitochondrial mass and improved aberrant mitochondrial processes associated with senescence, including reduced mitochondrial and intracellular total ROS production. Mitochondrial health and dynamics were preserved, and respiratory function was restored, as evidenced by enhanced OXPHOS, reduced glycolysis, and increased ATP production. Notably, NRF1 overexpression led to decreased senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase (SA‐β‐gal) activity and reduced expression of senescence markers p53, p21, and p16. Our findings demonstrate that NRF1 induction attenuates MSC senescence by enhancing mitochondrial function, suggesting potential translational applications for MSC‐based therapies and senescence‐targeted interventions.
Integrated Analysis of Vonoprazan Safety for Symptomatic Gastro‐Oesophageal Reflux Disease or Erosive Oesophagitis
Authors: Howden Colin W. , Katz Philip , DeVault Kenneth R. , Metz David C. , Tamene David , Smith Neila , Hunt Barbara , Chang Yu‐Ming , Spechler Stuart J.
Published: December 2024

Background

Patients with erosive oesophagitis, and those with persistent symptomatic non‐erosive gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease, require long‐term maintenance treatment with acid‐suppressing agents.

Aim

To evaluate the safety of vonoprazan, a potassium‐competitive acid blocker, in an integrated analysis of data from clinical trials in adults.

Methods

We included 14 clinical trials of vonoprazan conducted in multiple countries. Mean duration of exposure in person‐years to vonoprazan (n = 5318) was 2068, to comparators lansoprazole (n = 1925) or esomeprazole (n = 86) was 751, and to placebo (n = 779) was 59. We report adverse events, serum gastrin, and liver enzyme levels as the main outcomes. Post‐marketing safety data from December 26, 2014 (date of commercialisation in Japan) to December 25, 2023, are also provided.

Results

Nasopharyngitis was the only adverse event reported by at least 5.0% of patients (6.94% vonoprazan, 5.07% proton pump inhibitor (PPI), 4.49% placebo). Incidence rates per 100 person‐years for serious adverse events were 10.39 for vonoprazan, 10.65 for PPIs, and 1.69 for placebo. One patient each on vonoprazan and lansoprazole was diagnosed with gastric cancer. Mean serum gastrin levels were higher on vonoprazan than lansoprazole but normalised by 4 weeks after discontinuation. Elevated liver enzyme levels were infrequent and of low magnitude with no differences between vonoprazan and PPIs. There were four deaths; none was considered related to study drug.

Conclusions

Vonoprazan was well tolerated. Its safety profile from both clinical trial and post‐marketing data were consistent and comparable to that of its PPI comparators with respect to treatment‐emergent adverse events.
A defense of ectogenic abortion
Authors: Ward Shane
Published: December 2024

A popular argument for a right to ectogenic abortions appeals to a right to avoid the obligations associated with parenthood. A common objection to this argument questions whether there are any sufficiently great harms associated with parenthood to ground such a right. I propose a novel formulation of this argument that avoids these objections. I then defend it against important objections.
Can artificial intelligence improve patient educational material readability? A systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Nasra Mohamed , Jaffri Rimsha , Pavlin‐Premrl Davor , Kok Hong Kuan , Khabaza Ali , Barras Christen , Slater Lee‐Anne , Yazdabadi Anousha , Moore Justin , Russell Jeremy , Smith Paul , Chandra Ronil V. , Brooks Mark , Jhamb Ashu , Chong Winston , Maingard Julian , Asadi Hamed
Published: December 2024

Enhancing patient comprehension of their health is crucial in improving health outcomes. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in distilling medical information into a conversational, legible format can potentially enhance health literacy. This review aims to examine the accuracy, reliability, comprehensiveness and readability of medical patient education materials (PEMs) simplified by AI models. A systematic review was conducted searching for articles assessing outcomes of use of AI in simplifying PEMs. Inclusion criteria are as follows: publication between January 2019 and June 2023, various modalities of AI, English language, AI use in PEMs and including physicians and/or patients. An inductive thematic approach was utilised to code for unifying topics which were qualitatively analysed. Twenty studies were included, and seven themes were identified (reproducibility, accessibility and ease of use, emotional support and user satisfaction, readability, data security, accuracy and reliability and comprehensiveness). AI effectively simplified PEMs, with reproducibility rates up to 90.7% in specific domains. User satisfaction exceeded 85% in AI‐generated materials. AI models showed promising readability improvements, with ChatGPT achieving 100% post‐simplification readability scores. AI's performance in accuracy and reliability was mixed, with occasional lack of comprehensiveness and inaccuracies, particularly when addressing complex medical topics. AI models accurately simplified basic tasks but lacked soft skills and personalisation. These limitations can be addressed with higher‐calibre models combined with prompt engineering. In conclusion, the literature reveals a scope for AI to enhance patient health literacy through medical PEMs. Further refinement is needed to improve AI's accuracy and reliability, especially when simplifying complex medical information.
Examining marijuana use, sexual risk, and HIV testing outcomes among young people with intersecting marginalized social identities in juvenile drug courts
Authors: Fix Rebecca L. , Mauro Pia M. , Sheidow Ashli J. , McCart Michael R. , Zajac Kristyn , Letourneau Elizabeth J.
Published: December 2024

We explored clinical outcomes among adolescents in juvenile drug court (JDC) by ethnoracial or gender identity, economic security, and mental health problems. Self‐report and drug testing data were obtained through a randomized control trial (RCT) with 101 adolescents in JDC at four time points (i.e., baseline, 3‐month immediate post, 6‐month follow‐up, and 12‐month follow‐up). Participants who identified as an adolescent girl and who were identified as having a mental health disorder demonstrated significant increases in talking about HIV 12 months after completing the intervention. Sexual risk behaviors increased for girls, Black, and Latine youth and decreased among adolescents with mental health problems. Marijuana use did not differ over time by identity. Programing that targets risk behaviors, including substance use and seemingly unrelated risk behaviors like risky sexual behavior, is warranted in addition to mental health services to improve health outcomes of adolescents with a history of juvenile legal system involvement.
Focused Electric Field Technology: A Novel Myoelectrical Stimulation Technology for Noninvasive Aging Muscle Rejuvenation
Authors: Jiang Boyang , Chen Bingbing , Xu Jia , Luo Jieshu , Yao Min
Published: December 2024

Background

Myoelectrical stimulation improves muscle function and reduces muscle atrophy and aging. However, research on the mechanism underlying its cosmetic effect remains limited.

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cosmetic effects of the myoelectrical stimulation provided by the wearable intelligent flexible beauty device and its focused electric field technology (FEFT) on facial skin and muscle rejuvenation.

Patients/Methods

We conducted a single‐blind, randomized, self‐controlled clinical efficacy experiment on 31 female volunteers using the device. Using an FEFT‐based platform, mice with d‐galactose‐induced skeletal muscle aging were subjected to surface myoelectrical stimulation of the gastrocnemius. Immunohistochemical analysis of skeletal muscles and protein immunoblotting were used to analyze the effects of FEFT.

Results

After 14 days of use, facial skin elasticity significantly increased, wrinkle firmness significantly decreased, and the lift height of the upper eyelid and eye corner angle significantly increased in the volunteers. Clinical evaluation showed improvements in the drooping of the upper eyelid and eye bags. Self‐evaluation questionnaires indicated alleviation of facial wrinkles. These improvements were more pronounced after 28 days. In mice, FEFT alleviated aging‐induced muscle fiber atrophy, muscle fiber cross‐sectional area reduction, and muscle satellite cell loss. FEFT also increased the expression of myogenic factors, including myogenic differentiation 1 (MYOD1).

Conclusions

FEFT exerted a skin‐tightening effect by initiating myogenic processes and increasing the transformation of muscle satellite cells. Our research promotes the development of FEFT‐based medical rehabilitation or cosmetic anti‐aging products and provides a foundation for further application and comprehensive efficacy evaluation in human clinical settings.
MASLD Is Associated With an Increased Long‐Term Risk of Atrial Fibrillation: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Mantovani Alessandro , Morandin Riccardo , Sani Elena , Fiorio Veronica , Shtembari Emigela , Bonapace Stefano , Petta Salvatore , Polyzos Stergios A. , Byrne Christopher D. , Targher Giovanni
Published: December 2024

Background

Studies have reported an association between metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the magnitude of the risk and whether this risk varies with the severity of MASLD remains uncertain.

Methods

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we searched three large electronic databases using predefined keywords to identify cohort studies (published up to 30 September 2024) in which MASLD was diagnosed by liver biopsy, imaging methods, International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes, or blood‐based scores. The primary outcome was the occurrence of AF based on ICD codes, medical records, or electrocardiograms. Meta‐analysis was performed using random‐effects modelling.

Results

We identified 16 retrospective cohort studies with aggregate data on ~19.5 million individuals followed for a median of 7.2 years. MASLD was significantly associated with an increased risk of developing incident AF (random‐effects hazard ratio 1.20, 95% CI 1.10–1.32; I2 = 92%). This risk did not appear to further increase with the severity of liver fibrosis (n = 3 studies; random‐effects hazard ratio 1.22, 95% CI 1.18–1.26; I2 = 10%). The risk of AF remained significant even after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes or other cardiometabolic risk factors. Sensitivity analyses did not modify these findings. The funnel plot and Egger's test showed no significant publication bias.

Conclusions

This updated and comprehensive meta‐analysis provides evidence that MASLD is significantly associated with an increased long‐term risk of developing incident AF. Further research is required to better decipher the link between MASLD and increased AF incidence.
Chlorophyll and topographic patterns demonstrate stress conditions drive the brightness of autumn leaf colour
Authors: Koide D. , Kobayashi M.
Published: December 2024

Autumn leaf colour brightness is an important cultural ecosystem service. As its spatial patterns and ecophysiological mechanisms remain unclear, we analysed relationships among autumn leaf colour brightness, late summer chlorophyll content, and topographic position in both canopy‐based micro‐scale analysis and site‐based macro‐scale analysis.

Multispectral drone observations were made in three Fagus crenata forests at elevations of 300, 600, and 900 m in Niigata Prefecture, Japan. In a drone‐acquired digital surface model of canopy area distribution, we analysed the canopy‐averaged autumn leaf colour brightness, four vegetation indices, topographic position index, and elevation.

The macro‐scale pattern showed brighter yellow leaves at lower elevations, suggesting the effect of temperature through productivity or evaporative stress. The micro‐scale pattern showed brighter yellow leaves in canopies that had a low late summer chlorophyll content, or that grew on ridges. The negative correlation between autumn leaf colour and chlorophyll content suggests that low‐chlorophyll trees experience stresses (e.g. irradiance, desiccation, senescence) that induce higher carotenoid content to defend against such stresses. Increased autumn leaf coloration on ridges is consistent with a stress gradient.

Although further research is needed to reveal the underlying physiological and ecological mechanisms, autumn leaf colour brightness has different meanings at different scales and thus has potential not only as a cultural ecosystem service but also in forest management through early detection of stress.
Interactive effects of nitrogen deposition and climate change on a globally rare forest geophyte
Authors: Ohse B. , Jansen D. , Härdtle W. , Fichtner A.
Published: December 2024

Nitrogen (N) deposition and climate change are both known to threaten global biodiversity. However, we still have a limited understanding of how interactions between these global change drivers affect individuals and populations of specialist species, such as geophytes, within their natural habitat.

We explored possible interactive effects of N, drought, and warming on population vitality (mean leaf length, leaf density, flowering probability) and morpho‐physiological traits (e.g., leaf and bulb size, N allocation to leaves and bulbs) of the globally rare forest geophyte Gagea spathacea (Liliaceae) in deciduous forests of northern Germany by applying experimental N addition across a climate gradient over a 5‐year period.

Mean leaf growth and leaf density were not affected by N addition but were enhanced by warmer and drier conditions in the months before leaf emergence. N addition increased N allocation of individual plants towards their subterranean bulbs. Importantly, effects of N addition on morpho‐physiological traits depended on warming and drought, with N‐fertilized plants showing increased leaf length and decreased specific leaf and bulb N concentration after drier autumns and warmer winters. This indicates that N deposition may partially compensate for increased N demands during warming‐induced growth, although this growth‐promoting interaction effect is not (yet) reflected in population vitality.

Our results highlight the importance of considering multiple global environmental change drivers and a whole plant perspective (above‐ and belowground traits) to predict long‐term growth responses of (endangered) forest spring geophytes and to develop adapted long‐term protection strategies.
Reverse endothelial scraping technique (REST) for an infectious corneal endothelial plaque
Authors: Mehta Sonali , Acharya Manisha , Sangwan Virender Singh , Gandhi Arpan
Published: December 2024

A male patient in his 20s, suffering from a persistent, infection-related corneal endothelial plaque (EP) was urgently referred to our tertiary medical centre for therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty (TPK). Over the preceding month, he had been undergoing treatment with both topical and oral antifungal medications due to clinical suspicion of fungal keratitis. At our centre, an endothelial scraping was performed using a reverse Sinskey hook to obtain samples for microbiology and revealed septate branching fungal hyphae. After targeted therapy with intracameral and intrastromal voriconazole injections, the EP healed with scarring and a final visual acuity of 20/30 was achieved. This highlights efficacy of the reverse endothelial scraping technique (REST) in obtaining microbiological samples from corneal EPs, facilitating targeted medical treatment and averting the need for invasive procedures like penetrating keratoplasty in young patients.
Varicella zoster infection-associated progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus in a 6-month follow-up
Authors: Wiederkehr Iris , Hor Hyun , Wiederkehr Max , Bachli Esther
Published: December 2024

A patient with reactivated varicella zoster virus (VZV) manifesting in the left-sided dermatome L3 and S2–S4 developed tonic spasms which morphed into myoclonic jerks, paresis, rigidity and hypoesthesia of the left leg. Later, stimuli-sensitive myoclonus progressed to affect the upper body and was accompanied by fever surges with high-frequency myoclonus, hypertensive derailment, dysphagia and other features of the brainstem with autonomic dysfunction. Cerebrospinal fluid tested positive for VZV, MRI showed no signs of myelitis and EEG was negative for epilepsy. However, on clinical presentation, progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus, a variant of the more well-known stiff person syndrome, was suspected and later supported by positive serum testing for associated anti-glycine receptor antibodies. Initially established antiviral, anti-epileptic and symptomatic treatment was then extended with intravenous immunoglobulin therapy. Only additional corticosteroid treatment led to a reduction in myoclonus, and uptitration of benzodiazepines decreased rigidity.
Kabuki syndrome: a comprehensive clinical portrait and genetic insight
Authors: Maldonado-Muñoz Mario Alberto , Gavino-Vergara Alejandro , Rebolledo-Solleiro Daniela
Published: December 2024

This report details the case of a preadolescent female patient diagnosed with Kabuki syndrome, a rare genetic disorder characterised by distinctive facial features, growth delay and cognitive impairment. The patient’s medical history includes perinatal complications, alongside challenges in developmental milestones, feeding and psychomotor skills since infancy, prompting further investigation. Genetic testing confirmed the diagnosis, revealing a full deletion ofKDM6A.

The patient underwent a multidisciplinary approach, addressing various aspects of her condition, which resulted in significant improvements in several areas. However, despite progress, challenges persist in daily tasks and the acquisition of advanced motor skills. This underscores the necessity of integrated management strategies, emphasizing the diagnostic importance of genetic testing that contributes to a deeper understanding of the clinical spectrum and guides targeted therapeutic interventions. Continued research is crucial to further unravel the complexities of this rare genetic disorder and enhance patient care.
Analysis of biofluid metabolomic profiles to the discovery of biomarkers in age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Wu Jiali , Zhang Min , Sun Xiaodong
Published: December 2024

Objective

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of irreversible visual impairment and blindness in the elderly. As AMD is a multifactorial disease, it is critical to explore useful biomarkers and pathological pathways underlying it. The purpose of this study is to summarise current metabolic profiles and further identify potential metabolic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in AMD, which could facilitate clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Methods and analysis

Relevant metabolomics studies published before 10 December 2021 were generally reviewed from online resources by two investigators. Studies with sufficient information and data were included in this systematic review and repeatedly identified metabolites were extracted. Pathway and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed. The public Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used for coanalysis with differential metabolites to construct a pathway network via MetaboAnalyst V.5.0.

Results

16 studies were included in our analysis. 24 metabolites were repeatedly detected and regarded as potential biomarkers for AMD. Pathway analysis implied a major role of phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan pathways in AMD pathology. 11 KEGG pathways were enriched, meanwhile, 11 metabolic pathway clusters were identified by coanalysing the differential metabolites and gene profiles using the GEO database.

Conclusion

In this study, we summarised 16 metabolomic studies on AMD, and 24 metabolites were identified as potential biofluid biomarkers. This provided novel insights into the pathogenic mechanisms underlying AMD. Further studies are warranted to validate and expand an effective pattern for AMD diagnosis and treatment.