bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cranial ultrasound in neonatal brain infections
Authors: Licht‐van der Stap Roosmarijn G. , de Vries Linda S. , Alarcon Ana , Govaert Paul , Steggerda Sylke J. ,   EurUS.Brain group
Published: February 2025

Infection of the neonatal central nervous system (CNS) can cause irreversible brain damage. Cranial ultrasound is an important neuroimaging modality in the neonatal period for detecting brain injury. Several types of organism can cause neonatal CNS infection. The aim of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the most common and typical ultrasonographic features of neonatal CNS infections and their evolution over time. Different microorganisms cause characteristic brain injury patterns. Using numerous imaging examples, we explain the different injury patterns caused by several Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative microorganisms, fungi, and viruses. This can guide the clinician to appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
Association of depression, traditional risk factor control and genetic risk with incident cardiovascular disease among individuals with prediabetes: A population‐based prospective study from UK biobank
Authors: Zhang Zenglei , Wang Chunqi , Zhao Lin , Wang Zeyu , Zhou Xianliang , Yang Weixian , Meng Xu
Published: February 2025

Background

The relationship between depression and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in individuals with prediabetes, its relative importance compared with traditional risk factors and whether genetic risk modifies this association remain unclear.

Aims

To explore the potential interactive effects of controlling traditional risk factors and depression on CVD, and to assess how depression compares with traditional risk factors in terms of its relative contribution to CVD risk in individuals with prediabetes.

Materials and Methods

We analysed a prospective cohort of 42,020 individuals from the UK Biobank, all free of prevalent CVD. Depression was determined using multiple sources to accurately assess the exposure. The five traditional risk factors considered were sleep duration, smoking, blood pressure (BP), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and renal function. We used Cox proportional hazards regression models to examine the associations between depression, risk factor control and CVD events.

Results

Over a median follow‐up of 13.1 years, 5865 individuals developed CVD, including 4764 cases of coronary heart disease and 1415 strokes. Compared with controlling 4–5 risk factors, both depression and controlling 0–1 risk factor significantly increased the risk of CVD in individuals with prediabetes. The corresponding multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios (95% CI) for CVD were 1.18 (1.09–1.28) and 1.44 (1.29–1.60), respectively. Depression ranked second in predicting CVD among the selected risk factors. A synergistic effect between depression and risk factor control was observed for CVD, with a relative excess risk due to interaction of 0.16 (0.06–0.26). Furthermore, these associations were independent of the genetic susceptibility to CVD.

Conclusions

Among individuals with prediabetes, both depression and suboptimal control of traditional risk factors are associated with an increased risk of CVD, independent of genetic susceptibility.
Most hospitalised patients with type 2 diabetes benefit from continuous glucose monitoring compared to point‐of‐care glucose testing in a non‐intensive care unit setting: A heterogeneity of treatment effect analysis
Authors: Olsen Mikkel Thor , Jensen Signe Hjejle , Rasmussen Louise Mathorne , Klarskov Carina Kirstine , Lindegaard Birgitte , Andersen Jonas Askø , Gottlieb Hans , Lunding Suzanne , Hansen Katrine Bagge , Pedersen‐Bjergaard Ulrik , Kristensen Peter Lommer
Published: February 2025

Aims

Understanding whether improved glycaemic outcomes from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) compared to point‐of‐care (POC) glucose testing apply uniformly to all hospitalised non‐intensive care unit (non‐ICU) patients with type 2 diabetes or vary among subgroups is crucial for allocating healthcare resources.

Materials and Methods

This two‐site randomised controlled trial DIAbetes TEam and Cgm (DIATEC) enrolled 166 non‐ICU patients with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes management was based on either POC glucose testing or CGM. Diabetes management was carried out by general hospital staff, under the guidance of specialised diabetes teams, using insulin titration protocols in both groups. We conducted heterogeneity of treatment effect regression analyses to assess whether certain patient characteristics (e.g., age, gender, haemoglobin A1c, etc.) modified the effects of CGM, compared to POC glucose testing, on the glycaemic outcomes time in/above/below range, mean glucose level, standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV) and hypoglycaemic events.

Results

No heterogeneity of treatment effect was observed, suggesting that all patients benefited equally from CGM compared to POC glucose testing regarding glycaemic outcomes.

Conclusions

From a glycaemic perspective, CGM could be widely recommended for most non‐ICU patients with type 2 diabetes, as its glycaemic benefits over POC glucose testing appear consistent regardless of individual characteristics.
Elevated Serum MCP‐2 and TARC Associated With Increased Risk of Death in Guamanian ALS Patients
Authors: Chowdhury Risana N. , Azam Mus'ab A. , Azam Suhaib A. , Lana Shteynman , Culver Erin N. , Garruto Ralph M. , Wander Katherine
Published: February 2025

Background

This study explores the relationship between inflammation and longevity in a high‐incidence focus of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in post‐WWII Guam. Characteristics of this focus include the sudden appearance of the disease in high numbers and the unusually long lifespan (without medical interventions) seen in some cases. We used bio‐banked specimens to evaluate the relationship between serum immunoregulators and survival time.

Methods

We evaluated sera from 69 Guam ALS cases collected within 2 years of symptom onset by NIH researchers from 1950 to 1983 for 11 immunoregulators via ELISA (CRP, eotaxin‐1, RANTES, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, IFN‐γ, IP‐10, MCP‐1, MCP‐2 and TARC). Factor analysis identified two factors responsible for ~68% of the variation in the data. We estimated Cox proportional hazards models to identify immunoregulators associated with time to death.

Results

Each 10‐unit increase in factor 2 cytokines (MCP‐2 and TARC) was associated with a 38% increase in the risk of death (HR: 1.38; 95% CI: 1.19, 1.65; p: 0.00). Discussion: Like sporadic ALS cases worldwide, inflammation is associated with a shortened lifespan in Guamanian ALS; more specifically, our findings suggest serum levels of MCP‐2 and TARC at onset may predict disease duration. Further investigation is needed to determine the role of these immunoregulators in disease prognosis and as targets for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Water‐Energy‐Carbon Nexus Within the Urban Eco‐Transformation of the Beijing‐Tianjin‐Hebei Region
Authors: Wang Yifei , Han Ze , Deng Xiangzheng
Published: February 2025

Driven by rapid urbanisation, the Beijing‐Tianjin‐Hebei region (BTH) has experienced a dramatic increase in resource consumption and environmental strain. Investigating the relationships among water, energy and carbon can help balance efficient resource utilisation, environmental conservation and economic growth, while promoting sustainable urban development. This study develops an analytical framework for the water‐energy‐carbon nexus within the urban eco‐transformation. Specifically, this study first illustrates the conceptual model for the interaction among water use, energy consumption and carbon emissions theoretically, then examines the water‐energy‐carbon dynamics in urbanisation and ecological transition of the BTH region. Furthermore, an empirical analysis was conducted taking Beijing city as the case study area to explore the water‐energy‐carbon nexus and its decoupling with socio‐economic development. Results show rapid urbanisation has significantly increased population and economic scale, exerting substantial pressure on water resources, energy supply and the environment. The study reveals a significant positive interaction between water consumption, electricity consumption and carbon emissions in Beijing, with an inverted U‐shaped parabolic relationship between GDP and population. Beijing is expected to decouple economic growth from carbon emissions after 2030 and from water consumption after 2037, reducing resource consumption and carbon emissions while sustaining economic growth. To achieve sustainable development, it is recommended that the Beijing‐Tianjin‐Hebei region accelerate industrial transformation, enhance water resource efficiency, develop clean energy and improve power system efficiency. This paper provides a theoretical foundation and practical insights for decision‐making and facilitates ecological urbanisation in the Beijing‐Tianjin‐Hebei region.
A Comparison of Fleet Dynamics Models for Predicting Fisher Location Choice
Authors: Dolder Paul J. , Poos Jan Jaap , Spence Michael A. , García Dorleta , Minto Cóilín
Published: February 2025

Scientific advice for fisheries management rarely takes into account how fishers react to regulations, which can lead to unexpected results and unrealistic expectations of the effectiveness of the management measures. Short‐term decisions about when and where to fish are one of the greatest sources of uncertainty in predicting management outcomes. Several models have been developed to predict how fishers allocate effort in space and time, including mechanistic methods such as gravity and dynamic state variable models, and statistical methods such as random utility and Markov models. These have been individually used to predict effort allocation for various fisheries, but there is no comparative synthesis of their structure and characteristics. We demonstrate strong theoretical links between utility and choice in gravity, random utility, Markov and dynamic state variable models. Using an advanced event‐based simulation framework, we find that mechanistic models bias effort allocation to certain areas when applying commonly used strong assumptions about drivers of effort allocation; and conversely, statistical models accurately predict the distribution of fishing effort under business as usual. However, predictive performance degrades with previously unobserved dynamics, such as a spatial closure. Mechanistic models were less suited to general application under business as usual but provide a useful framework for testing hypotheses about a fishery system in response to policy change. Comparison of simple model formulations yielded significant insight into the characteristics of the models and how they could be used to evaluate alternative management approaches for mixed fisheries.
Interaction of TFAP2A with the Ku70/80 complex is crucial for HIF‐dependent activation of hypoxia‐inducible genes
Authors: Kanoura Amalia , Giakountis Antonis , Filippopoulou Chrysa , Karagiota Angeliki , Stamatakis George , Samiotaki Martina , Panayotou George , Simos George , Chachami Georgia
Published: February 2025

Hypoxia can be established under pathological conditions, such as cancer, due to the imbalance between oxygen supply and consumption. Hypoxia‐inducible transcription factor HIF‐1 mediates the physiological response to hypoxia but also regulates multiple steps of carcinogenesis. Despite its well‐defined oxygen‐dependent activation, many aspects of HIF‐1 transcriptional activity as well as interaction with chromatin remain elusive. We have recently shown that hypoxia triggered deSUMOylation of TFAP2A. To study the possible role of TFAP2A in the transcriptional response to hypoxia, we performed ChIP‐seq analysis. Our results have now shown that TFAP2A resides together with HIF‐1α on the promoters of a subset of hypoxia‐regulated genes, the mRNA expression of which is downregulated by silencing of TFAP2A. Interestingly, CRISPR‐mediated knockdown of TFAP2A expression under hypoxia decreased the occupancy of HIF‐1α on these promoters and affected chromatin accessibility. Mechanistically, we reveal that the Ku70/Ku80 protein complex interacts with deSUMOylated TFAP2A under hypoxia and participates in HIF‐dependent gene expression. Moreover, using stable expression of TFAP2A forms that either lack or constitutively carry a SUMO modification, we could show that SUMOylation affects binding of TFAP2A to chromatin. Overall, our data suggest that TFAP2A is an important co‐regulator of the HIF‐1‐dependent transcriptional response to hypoxia and SUMOylation fine‐tunes this regulation. As both TFAP2A and HIF‐1 play critical roles in cancer progression, a detailed characterization of their crosstalk could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for targeting and killing cancer cells in hypoxic tumors.
Whole‐Profile Soil Carbon Responses to Concurrent Warming and Precipitation Changes Across Global Biomes
Authors: Wang Mingming , Zhang Shuai , Guo Xiaowei , Wang Guocheng , Xia Jianyang , Xiao Liujun , Luo Zhongkui
Published: February 2025

The joint effects of simultaneous warming and precipitation shifts on soil organic carbon (SOC)—the largest terrestrial carbon pool—remain poorly understood across large spatial extents. By evaluating a global dataset of SOC measurements in the top meter of soil through a space‐for‐change substitution approach, we show that, averaging across the globe, increased precipitation compensates for warming‐induced SOC reductions regardless of soil depth and vice versa. Although additive effects between these two factors are predominant, negative interactive effects, which exacerbate SOC losses, are also common, particularly in tropical and subtropical grasslands/savannas and Mediterranean/montane shrublands. SOC responses vary widely across the globe, primarily correlated to baseline SOC content and local climatic conditions. Notably, SOC responses in tundra systems are opposite the responses in other ecosystems, showing positive and negative responses to warming and precipitation increases, respectively. Under a scenario of 2°C air warming with projected precipitation changes, global SOC stocks in the 0–1 m depth are projected to decrease by 13.1% ± 6.6% (mean ± 95% confidence interval, or 351 ± 100 Pg C). These results demonstrate that accurately predicting SOC dynamics under climate change necessitates explicit consideration of local climatic conditions and existing SOC content in relation to concurrent precipitation shifts and warming.
Simulating and Analysing Seabird Flyways: An Approach Combining Least‐Cost Path Modelling and Machine Learning
Authors: Skyllas Nomikos , Verhoeven Mo A. , Loonen Maarten J. J. E. , Bintanja Richard
Published: February 2025

Aim

We develop and test a cost framework to simulate the flyways of migratory seabirds, considering various environmental factors such as wind support, crosswind, travel distance, and food availability. Using this framework, we simulate potential migratory flyways for arctic terns and compare these simulations with tracking data. Our aim is to identify which combination of factors best explains the observed flyways. Ultimately, we seek to demonstrate how different environmental factors shape flyways.

Innovation

We simulated 195 possible seabird flyways using a newly developed cost function that takes into account a number of environmental variables. We focused on the Arctic Tern, a transhemispheric migrating seabird species. Our model accurately simulated most spring and autumn flyways across the Atlantic Ocean (median RMSE ± standard deviation for all five flyways: 529 ± 201 km). The most accurate simulations for Arctic Terns breeding on Svalbard were those for which wind support made up ~70% of the total cost, while the best simulations for the Dutch population were those for which distance minimisation was ~50% and food maximisation was ~30% of total costs. Finally, by analysing tracking data using a machine‐learning algorithm factoring in both wind support and crosswind, we were able to determine airspeed and subsequently infer whether the observed flyways optimised time and/or effort.

Main Conclusions

This analysis showed that Arctic Terns breeding on Svalbard followed effort‐optimising flyways, whereas those that breed in the Netherlands followed time‐optimising flyways. Our simulation‐to‐observation approach demonstrates that Earth's environmental and physical properties likely underlie the global distribution of migratory birds and therefore need to be considered in studies that evaluate the long‐range movement patterns and distribution of birds.
Harnessing the Full Power of Data to Characterise Biological Scaling Relationships
Authors: Simovic Milos , Michaletz Sean T.
Published: February 2025

Describing Scaling Relationships

Scaling relationships are a central feature of global ecology, quantifying general biological patterns across broad spatial and temporal scales. Traditionally characterised as scale‐invariant power laws, the scope of biological scaling has expanded in recent decades to include log–log curvilinearity and exponential functions. In macroecology and biogeography, a major focus is on quantifying these general relationships using empirical data, comparing observations across datasets and testing their consistency with theoretical predictions. This is typically accomplished by fitting linear models to log‐transformed data, estimating slopes (representing scaling exponents or exponential rate constants) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and evaluating whether these CIs align with empirical observations or theoretical predictions.

Challenges of Existing Methods

The accuracy of general slope estimates depends critically on the distribution of data across the range of the abscissa. When observations are unevenly distributed, with clustering in some portions of the range, slope and CI estimates become biased toward regions of higher data density. This imbalance increases the risk of type I or II errors, potentially leading to erroneous conclusions in comparisons of data with observations or predictions.

Bootstrapping Enables Accurate Estimates of Scaling Relationships

We introduce a novel bootstrapping approach to address data imbalance in biological scaling analyses that improves the accuracy of general slope and CI estimates. This method enables more precise comparisons with empirical observations and theoretical predictions. We validate the approach by accurately reproducing a known slope from plant height‐diameter data. Additionally, we demonstrate that fitting linear models to imbalanced and balanced metabolic rate‐body mass data yields different slope estimates, leading to different conclusions regarding agreement between data and theory. Finally, we evaluate three common data processing methods and show that model fits to balanced data are superior for reliable quantification of general scaling relationships.
The Impact of Medication Regimen Complexity on Patient‐Related and Clinical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Goh Jing Xin , Tesfaye Wubshet , Van Connie , Sud Kamal , Seth Shrey , Tarafdar Surjit , Castelino Ronald L.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

There is limited data on medication regimen complexity on outcomes in patients with kidney failure receiving hemodialysis (HD) in different settings. This study aims to quantify medication regimen complexity and assess its impact on patient‐related and clinical outcomes in facility‐based and home‐based HD‐treated patients.

Methods

This study targeted patients undergoing HD at a large metropolitan dialysis center in Australia. Baseline data and hospitalizations were recorded through a retrospective audit of electronic medical records, while other outcome data were collected prospectively. Medication regimen complexity was assessed using the 65‐item Medication Regimen Complexity Index (MRCI). Medication adherence was evaluated with the 4‐item Morisky‐Green‐Levine Scale (MGLS), whereby participants were deemed not adherent if they responded “yes” to any of the questions. EQ‐5D‐5L and EQ VAS scores were used to assess health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) with higher scores indicating better health.

Findings

Of 174 eligible adults, 145 (80 facility‐based and 65 home HDs) patients participated. Participants of both facility‐based and home HD were predominantly men (65% and 75.4%, respectively) with a mean age of 62 ± 13 years and 56 ± 12 years, respectively. Home HD participants had a higher median MRCI than those on facility‐based HD [26.0 (IQR 20.6–33.0) vs. 20.8 (IQR 13.6–28.4), respectively; p = 0.005]. While there was no significant difference in the non‐adherence rate, home HD participants had higher scores for both EQ‐5D‐5L [0.917 (IQR 0.745–0.984) vs. 0.798 (IQR 0.302–0.956), respectively; p = 0.006] and EQ VAS [60 (IQR 50–75) vs. 50 (IQR 40–70), respectively; p = 0.034]. Home HD participants also had a fewer number of hospitalizations in the prior (1 year 0 (IQR 0–1) vs. 1 (IQR 0–1), respectively; p = 0.042).

Discussion

The higher complexity of the medication regimen for home HD compared to facility‐based HD participants may be due to the shift in dose administration responsibility of several parenteral medications. Despite the higher complexity, home HD patients had better outcomes, including HRQoL and hospitalizations compared to facility‐based HD patients.
Rebound of Reflux‐Related Symptoms After Helicobacter pylori Eradication in Patients With Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Hu Kai‐Yu , Tseng Ping‐Huei , Liou Jyh‐Ming , Tu Chia‐Hung , Chen Chien‐Chuan , Lee Yi‐Chia , Chiu Han‐Mo , Wu Ming‐Shiang
Published: February 2025

Background/Purpose

We aimed to assess the effects of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication on the rebound of reflux‐related symptoms among gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients.

Methods

This prospective randomized study recruited patients with typical reflux symptoms and reflux esophagitis on esophagogastroduodenoscopy (NCT02934152). Patients positive for H. pylori via a urea breath test (UBT) were randomly assigned to receive bacterial eradication with triple therapy for 2 weeks either before or after proton‐pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment for 4 weeks. Follow‐up was implemented with serial GerdQ evaluation and a subsequent UBT. The primary outcome was the incidence rates of symptom rebound between patients with and without H. pylori infection. The secondary outcomes included the severity of symptom rebound, incidence rates of symptom rebound, and successful eradication rates between the early and late eradication groups.

Results

A total of 248 patients were enrolled, of whom 107 (43.1%) tested positive for H. pylori infection. All patients with and without concurrent H. pylori infection had significant symptom improvement over the entire treatment. Patients with H. pylori infection had significantly lower rates of symptom rebound (19.8% vs. 34.2%, p = 0.034) and rebound severity (1.8 ± 0.7 vs. 2.8 ± 1.6, p = 0.031) 4 weeks after eradication and PPI treatment than those without. The incidence rates of symptom rebound and successful eradication rates were not significantly different between the early and late eradication groups.

Conclusions

GERD patients with concurrent H. pylori infection were less susceptible to symptom rebound after H. pylori eradication compared to those without.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT02934152)
Overexpression of lncRNAs HOTAIR and MALAT1 While Downexpression of lncRNA PANDA Predict the Resistance of Diffuse Large B‐Cell Lymphoma to R‐CHOP Chemoimmunotherapy
Authors: Ahmed Yara Mohamed , El‐Khazragy Nashwa , Haroun Riham Abdel‐Hamid , Fathy Shadia Abdel‐Hamid
Published: February 2025

Background

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as key regulators of cancer; in addition, they have been identified as novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers for several cancers, including diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Methods

A total of 75 DLBCL patients and 30 control subjects with active lymph nodes were enrolled into our study. The baseline expression levels of lncRNAs HOTAIR, MALAT1, and PANDA in paraffin‐embedded blocks of lymph nodes from DLBCL patients and controls were evaluated using reverse transcription quantitative real‐time PCR (RTqPCR) technique.

Results

The expression levels of HOTAIR and MALAT1 were increased while PANDA expression level was decreased in DLBCL patients when compared to controls and in R‐CHOP‐resistant patients when compared to responder ones. Also, HOTAIR, MALAT1, and PANDA baseline expression levels were significantly correlated with the different clinical parameters in this study. As diagnostic and prognostic tools, the results obtained from the ROC curve revealed that the PANDA baseline expression level was the best one as the diagnostic biomarker could differentiate DLBCL disease and the prognostic biomarker predicts R‐CHOP resistance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the integrated approach reveals that lncRNAs HOTAIR and MALAT1 were upregulated, while lncRNA PANDA was downregulated in DLBCL patients compared with controls, and the three lncRNAs closely associated with clinical prognosis. This study warrants future studies in clinical trials for the treatment of R‐CHOP‐resistant DLBCL patients.
Current Evidence on Cabazitaxel for Prostate Cancer Therapy: A Narrative Review
Authors: Suzuki Kazuhiro , Matsuyama Hideyasu , Matsubara Nobuaki , Kazama Hirotaka , Ueno Fumiko , Uemura Hirotsugu
Published: February 2025

The incidence of prostate cancer (PC) has recently increased in Japan. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) has been a key treatment in patients with castration‐sensitive PC (CSPC); however, resistance typically emerges through multiple mechanisms, leading to metastatic castration‐resistant PC (mCRPC). Taxane‐based therapy (i.e., docetaxel, cabazitaxel) has been standard care in patients with mCRPC. New evidence supporting the addition of androgen receptor signaling inhibitors (ARSIs, e.g., enzalutamide, abiraterone) to docetaxel and ADT for patients with metastatic CSPC (mCSPC) raises questions about the role of taxane‐based therapies and their optimal sequencing, as well as how to identify patients who may benefit from taxane‐based therapy. Here we review the evidence on taxane‐based therapy, including cabazitaxel, in the treatment of PC, with a focus on clinical and real‐world evidence from Japan. Cabazitaxel has proven effective for patients with mCRPC who have a history of ARSI and docetaxel use, and it is preferable to a second alternative ARSI, as indicated in the CARD study. The safety profile of cabazitaxel (particularly, the incidence of neutropenia) can be managed through prophylactic use of granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor, as well as a lower dosage and possibly variation of the dosage interval. However, a certain dose intensity is required because neutropenia has been identified as a potential prognostic indicator for treatment effectiveness. In the ARSI era for mCSPC, evidence on mCRPC treatment sequencing is limited. A better understanding of PC biology and the collection of real‐world data is essential for effective treatment and improved safety‐benefit outcomes.
Histological Qualitative Assessment of Tissue Lesions in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar L.) Following Caudal Vasculature Blood Sampling
Authors: Dalum A. S. , Romstad H. , Boissonnot L. , Stensby‐Skjærvik S. , Klykken C.
Published: February 2025

Blood sampling of fish has received increasing interest from the industry. However, the impact of puncturing the caudal vasculature, a common sampling procedure, is poorly described. In this study, the histopathology of this procedure was examined in both acute and chronic stages.
Board Gender Diversity and Capital Adequacy: The Role of Environmental Responsibility in the Banking Industry
Authors: Gangi Francesco , Varrone Nicola , Mustilli Mario , Daniele Lucia Michela , Coscia Maria
Published: February 2025

This study investigates how board gender diversity (BGD) impacts banks' risk‐taking and if this effect is mediated through banks' sensitivity toward environmental issues. Indeed, earlier literature recognizes a female risk aversion in financial decision‐making and the urgency for banks to manage environmental risks. Using a sample of 132 banks from 21 countries over the 2009‒2020 period, we examine both the direct effect between BGD on risk‐taking and the indirect effect of the mediating role of banks' environmental engagement. The results indicate that banks with higher BGD show higher capital adequacy ratios (Tier 1; Total Tier) and lower risk‐weighted assets (RWAs), suggesting that the greater the presence of women on the boards, the lower the banks' risk profile. Moreover, the relationship between greater BGD and lower risk‐taking is mediated by the impact of the bank's environmental engagement. Hence, BGD lowers banks' riskiness both directly and indirectly through the channel of improved environmental practices.
Calcium‐Dependent Signaling in Astrocytes: Downstream Mechanisms and Implications for Cognition
Authors: Veiga Alexandra , Abreu Daniela Sofia , Dias José Duarte , Azenha Patrícia , Barsanti Sara , Oliveira João Filipe
Published: February 2025

Astrocytes are glial cells recognized for their diverse roles in regulating brain circuit structure and function. They can sense and adapt to changes in the microenvironment due to their unique structural and biochemical properties. A key aspect of astrocytic function involves calcium (Ca2+)‐dependent signaling, which serves as a fundamental mechanism for their interactions with neurons and other cells in the brain. However, while significant progress has been made in understanding the spatio‐temporal properties of astrocytic Ca2+ signals, the downstream molecular pathways and exact mechanisms through which astrocytes decode these signals to regulate homeostatic and physiological processes remain poorly understood. To address this topic, we review here the available literature on the sources of intracellular Ca2+, as well as its downstream mechanisms and signaling pathways. We review the well‐studied Ca2+‐dependent exocytosis but draw attention to additional intracellular Ca2+‐dependent mechanisms that are less understood and are, most likely, highly influential for many other cellular functions. Finally, we review how intracellular Ca2+ is thought to underlie neuron–astrocyte signaling in brain regions involved in cognitive processing.

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Heterogeneous Price Technologies
Authors: Hämäläinen Saara
Published: February 2025

We present a unified theory of dynamic oligopoly pricing with heterogeneous information technologies on each side of the market. Trackers (on the firm‐side) and shoppers (on the consumer‐side) can follow market prices costlessly, whereas non‐trackers and non‐shoppers cannot. We describe both non‐collusive and collusive equilibria. While the effects of tracking may be non‐monotone, the presence of trackers generally harms consumers. The price pattern that arises with trackers and non‐trackers reconciles a multitude of cross‐sectional price patterns, such as persistent price differences and adherence to or avoidance of certain prices. We find that non‐trackers can counter tracker collusion by applying a limit‐price strategy.
Blood Flow Velocities as Determined by Real‐Time Phase‐Contrast MRI in Patients With Carotid Artery Stenosis
Authors: Bochert Deborah , Hofer Sabine , Dechent Peter , Frahm Jens , Bähr Mathias , Liman Jan , Maier Ilko
Published: February 2025

Background and Purpose

Real‐time phase‐contrast (RT‐PC) flow MRI can be used to determine quantitative flow parameters throughout the vessel lumen of extracranial, brain‐supplying arteries. Its potential value in the diagnostic workup of patients with carotid artery stenosis has not been evaluated.

Methods

RT‐PC flow MRI was performed in 10 patients with carotid stenosis in comparison to conventional neurovascular ultrasound (nvUS). Peak systolic velocity, end‐diastolic velocity, mean flow velocity, and flow volumes have been evaluated by RT‐PC flow MRI. Measurements have been performed at standardized sites along the common, internal, and external carotid arteries on both sides and at the maximum of the carotid stenosis.

Results

Blood flow velocities were significantly lower with RT‐PC flow MRI compared to nvUS and not consistently correlated between both methods. Within the maximum of the carotid stenosis, RT‐PC flow MRI showed implausible flow velocity reductions compared to nvUS. In contrast, the flow volumes determined by RT‐PC flow MRI—with exception of the stenosis maximum—were comparable with nvUS and significantly correlated in the prestenotic common carotid artery.

Conclusion

RT‐PC flow MRI does not appear to be suitable for quantifying blood flow velocities and volumes in the patients with carotid stenosis compared to nvUS. Apart from the lower temporal resolution of RT‐PC MRI, the lack of correlation of blood flow velocities might be ascribed to the prevalence of nonlaminar flow within and behind the stenosis, which violates a general prerequisite for valid flow velocity measurements by PC MRI.
Myelin Quantification Using Ultrashort Echo Time Magnetization Transfer Ratio in a Mouse Model of Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Athertya Jiyo S. , Cheng Xin , Tang Qingbo , Moazamian Dina , Chang Eric Y. , Johnson Catherine E. , Cui Jiankun , Gu Zezong , Ma Yajun , Du Jiang
Published: February 2025

Background and Purpose

This study aims to assess the potential of ultrashort echo time imaging‐based magnetization transfer ratio (UTE‐MTR) in detecting demyelination in mice with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by an open‐field low‐intensity blast (LIB) injury model.

Methods

This study included 30 male C57BL/6 mice, approximately 8 weeks old, sourced from Jackson Laboratories in Bar Harbor, ME, and conducted under institutional guidelines. The mice were divided into the mTBI group (n = 15) and the sham control group (n = 15). All animal experiments followed the approved protocols for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals and Animal Research. The mTBI group underwent the open‐field LIB injury. Behavioral tests were conducted to assess motor activity and anxiety‐like responses. UTE‐MT imaging was performed using a 3 Tesla Bruker system to measure UTE‐MTR from two UTE‐MT datasets with saturation powers of 1500° and 500°, and two frequency offsets of 2 and 50 kHz, respectively. Luxol fast blue (LFB) staining was performed to evaluate myelin content. The mean UTE‐MTR values for regions of interest centered at the medial section of the corpus callosum were computed. The behavioral tests, LFB myelin staining, and UTE‐MTR values were compared between the two groups using the independent t‐test. p values <0.05 were considered significant.

Results

The mTBI mice demonstrated decreased motor activity and increased anxiety‐like response over sham controls. The mTBI mice also showed significantly lower UTE‐MTR values (0.399±0.007 vs. 0.393±0.005; p<0.05) and reduced LFB myelin staining (0.848±0.324 vs. 1.145±0.260; p = 0.048) over sham controls.

Conclusion

The significantly lower UTE‐MTR values in the corpus callosum of mTBI mice are consistent with reduced LFB myelin staining, indicating that UTE‐MTR can detect myelin loss and associated alterations in motor and anxiety domains post‐LIB exposure.
Personality, Ideology, and Attitudes Toward Social Justice
Authors: Xu Xiaowen , Scarborough Autumn N. , Anthony Lachlan M. , Smillie Luke D.
Published: February 2025

Objective

The importance of diversity, inclusiveness, and social justice has been increasingly emphasized in different institutions and organizations around the world. The present research adopted an individual differences approach to understanding people's attitudes toward diversity and social justice.

Method

Across three studies (Ns ranging from 371 to 700), participants completed measures of Big Five personality traits, political ideology, and attitudes toward a range of social justice issues (diversity, LGBTQ+, racial relations, abortion).

Results

Higher Openness to Experience and Agreeableness emerged as the most consistent predictors of higher support for social justice. Higher Neuroticism and lower Conscientiousness also predicted support for social justice issues. Furthermore, consistent with the dual‐process model of ideology, we found that right‐wing authoritarianism and social dominance orientation tended to predict social justice support above and beyond Openness to Experience and Agreeableness.

Conclusion

This work provides important insights into the personality predictors of social justice support.
‘Knocking’ on armadillo's door: Uncovering the use of an ecosystem Engineer's burrow by the lesser anteater
Authors: Yan M. , Bertassoni A. , Massocato G. F. , Desbiez A. L. J.
Published: February 2025

Armadillos are considered important ecosystem engineers as their burrows can benefit many species. Monitoring burrows with camera traps allows us to obtain relevant biological data on the species that utilize this resource. Our goal in this study was to examine the lesser anteater's (Tamandua tetradactyla) use of giant armadillo (Priodontes maximus) burrows as a first attempt to assess how user species benefit from them. We took camera trap data from a long‐term monitoring study (2011–2020) in the Brazilian Pantanal wetland. We then evaluated and classified the frequency and way in which the burrows were used by the individual lesser anteaters. We also assessed the time of entrance and exit from the burrows related to sleep, the period of activity and activity pattern. This species used most monitored burrows, and these were used more than once by the same individuals or by more than one individual at different times. We described four types of uses: inspection of the burrow entrance, inspection of the interior of the burrow, exploratory/resting and sleeping. The lesser anteater was active on average 7 h 42 m per day with a primarily nocturnal activity pattern, which started in the early evening and ended at dawn. This is the first study to evaluate a focal species' use of giant armadillo burrows. Our data suggest that burrows are a valuable resource for the lesser anteater as shelter. Burrow monitoring proved to be effective in obtaining records and key information on the ecology and behaviour of the lesser anteater. New studies may explore this approach to acquire data on other species who frequently use these burrows, including agoutis, tayras, ocelots and coatis.
Learning Novel Words in an Immersive Virtual‐Reality Context: Tracking Lexicalization Through Behavioral and Event‐Related‐Potential Measures
Authors: Jiao Lu , Lin Yue , Schwieter John W. , Liu Cong
Published: February 2025

The present study used immersive virtual‐reality (iVR) technology to simulate a real‐life environment and examined its impact on novel‐word learning and lexicalization. On Days 1–3, Chinese‐speaking participants learned German words in iVR and traditional picture–word (PW) association contexts. A semantic‐priming task was used to measure word lexicalization on Day 4, and again 6 months later. The behavioral findings of an immediate posttest showed a larger semantic‐priming effect on iVR‐learned words compared to PW‐learned words. Moreover, electrophysiological results of the immediate posttest demonstrated significant semantic‐priming effects only for iVR‐learned words, such that related prime–target pairs elicited enhanced N400 amplitude compared to unrelated prime–target pairs. However, after 6 months, there were no differences between the iVR and PW conditions. The findings support the embodied‐cognition theory and dual‐coding theory and suggest that a virtual real‐life learning context with multimodal enrichment facilitates novel‐word learning and lexicalization but that these effects seem to disappear over time.
Shock‐heated graphite in three IAB iron meteorites—Implications on the formation of diamond
Authors: Christ Oliver , Barbaro Anna , Ferrière Ludovic , Pittarello Lidia , Domeneghetti M. Chiara , Brenker Frank E. , Nestola Fabrizio , Alvaro Matteo
Published: February 2025

Iron meteorites, originating from the deepest parts of their parent bodies and separated during major break‐up events, surprisingly rarely contain diamonds despite experiencing similar pressure–temperature conditions as diamond‐bearing ureilites. In this study, graphite from three non‐magmatic IAB iron meteorites Canyon Diablo, Campo del Cielo, and Yardymly was analyzed using micro‐Raman spectroscopy, revealing the presence of the graphite G‐band, the disorder‐induced D‐band, and occasionally the D′‐band. Temperature estimates based on the G‐band full width at half maximum (ranging from 1155 to 1339°C) are consistent with those found in ureilites. However, unlike in ureilites, no diamond bands were detected, as confirmed by μ‐X‐ray diffraction. The absence of diamonds is interpreted to be related to the thermal and mechanical properties of the iron meteorite matrix. Its high thermal diffusivity results in similar temperatures to ureilites, but its ductility dissipates shock‐wave energy through plastic deformation, unlike the brittle ureilite matrix, which more effectively transmits the energy. Consequently, graphite in iron meteorites was heated but did not experience the high‐pressure conditions required for diamond formation. Thus, we propose that impacts must either involve substantial energy or that graphite must be located close to the impact site, where it can experience high energies before these dissipate.
The effect of hygienic care practices given to stroke patients on vital signs of patients: A self‐comparison pre‐experimental study
Authors: Tunç İsmail , Tosun Betül , Dirgar Ezgi
Published: February 2025

Background

Hygiene and skin care are crucial for stroke patients in intensive care, yet the effects of bathing practices on vital signs in mechanically ventilated stroke patients remain underexplored.

Aim

This study aimed to assess the effects of full bed baths and wiping baths on vital signs in stroke patients.

Study Design

A self‐comparison pre‐experimental study was conducted with 90 stroke patients treated in three intensive care units at a Turkish hospital between 10 January 2021 and 01 January 2022. Patients received either a full bed bath (first measurement day) or a wiping bath (second and third measurement days). Vital signs and arterial blood gas values were measured before and after each bath.

Results

Of the participants, 55.5% were male, with a mean age of 64.2 ± 14.8 years. Significant changes in heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and body temperature were observed after the full bed bath (heart rate: λ = 0.156, F = 43.940; systolic BP: λ = 0.484, F = 17.981; diastolic blood pressure: λ = 0.835, F = 7.216; body temperature: λ = 0.97, F = 142.92; p < .001). Similarly, wiping baths resulted in significant changes (heart rate: λ = 0.354, F = 34.776; systolic blood pressure: λ = 0.384, F = 16.372; diastolic blood pressure: λ = 0.492, F = 17.603; body temperature: λ = 0.236, F = 176.765; p < .001). Arterial blood gas changes were significant after wiping baths on Day three (pH: t = 3.351, p = .001; PaO2: t = 2.400, p = .018).

Conclusions

Both full and wiping bed baths significantly affect vital signs and arterial blood gases in stroke patients. Nurses should tailor bathing practices to patient needs, continuously monitoring vital signs.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This study highlights how bathing practices impact vital signs and arterial blood gases in intensive care patients. It emphasizes tailoring interventions to patient needs and preferences, as full baths may suit some, while wiping baths offer advantages, particularly for blood pH and PaO2 levels.
miR3398‐VqMYB15 Regulates the Synthesis of Stilbene in Vitis quinquangularis
Authors: Luo Yangyang , Feng Yang , Xie Qingqing , Lu Wenjing , Duan Dong
Published: February 2025

Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) is an economically important fruit crop grown worldwide. Grapevine is cultivated extensively in China, and certain wild grapes exhibit excellent resistance to pathogens and stress. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) act as key regulators of plant growth, development, and immunity; however, their functions in grape stilbene synthesis are poorly understood. We identified an miRNA (miR3398) that negatively regulates the transcription factor MYB15 and participates in the synthesis of stilbene from Vitis quinquangularis (V. quinquangularis). MiR3398 and VqMYB15 showed completely opposite expression patterns after AlCl3 treatment, and the interaction between miR3398 and VqMYB15 was confirmed using 5ʹ‐RACE ligase‐mediated rapid amplification of cDNA ends, dual‐luciferase reporter gene system, and western blot analysis. VqMYB15 could bind to the VqSTS48 promoter by using yeast one‐hybrid and electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and overexpression of VqMYB15 promoted stilbene accumulation in grape leaves. Using an overexpression and silencing system, we found that miR3398 negatively targets VqMYB15 to synthesis of stilbenes. We used Al3+ as an elicitor, indicating that miR3398 plays an important role in the plant immunity of V. quinquangularis. We also found that miR3398 is involved in plant immunity by detecting its promoter activity in grape protoplasts, luciferase imaging, and transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana. More importantly, we found that an ethylene transcription factor, ERF057, can bind to the promoter of miR3398 using Y1H and EMSA assays and inhibit its transcription using DLR, luciferase imaging, and β‐glucuronidase transcript assays. Overexpression of VqERF057 reduced miR3398 transcript in V. quinquangularis and transgenic grapevine calli, but increased the stilbene content. These findings contribute to the understanding of the biological functions of miR3398 regulates stilbene synthesis in grapevines and clarify the molecular mechanism underlying the interaction between miR3398 and VqMYB15.
SARS‐CoV‐2‐Specific Antibodies in Pediatric Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: Benefits of Additional Vaccine Doses
Authors: Adler Amanda L. , Waghmare Alpana , Smith Jodi , Kelton Megan , Dickerson Jane A. , Reed Jonathan C. , Greninger Alexander L. , Kehoe Leanne , Fairlie Tarayn , Hagen Melissa Briggs , Midgley Claire M. , Lacombe Kirsten , Englund Janet A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Limited data are available regarding the development and durability of immune responses following COVID‐19 infection or vaccination in pediatric solid‐organ transplant (SOT) recipients.

Methods

Renal, liver, or intestinal transplant recipients < 21 years of age followed at Seattle Children's Hospital were enrolled from August 2020 to May 2021. Blood samples were collected at ~6‐month intervals for up to 3 years and tested for antinucleocapsid (N) antibodies. COVID‐19 vaccination data were collected from the Washington State Immunization Information System and/or the medical record. Semi‐quantitative anti‐S IgG testing was performed on all postvaccine samples using the Abbott Architect platform. We further evaluated a subset of postvaccine samples using variant‐specific quantitative binding (Meso Scale Discovery, MSD) immunoassays and pseudovirus‐neutralization assays. Antibody levels were compared over time and by vaccine category.

Results

We followed 83 SOT recipients for a median of 12.5 months (IQR 7.0, 28.3). Overall, 16 (19.3%) participants had evidence of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection based on anti‐N antibody detection. Forty‐six (55%) participants had a blood sample collected > 14 days after receipt of a vaccination. Serum IgG to spike antigens (anti‐S antibody) increased following vaccination and increased with the number of vaccine doses received as assessed by both the Abbott and MSD assays. Neutralizing activity was significantly lower against the Omicron subvariants compared to the ancestral strain.

Conclusion

Pediatric SOT recipients demonstrated strong antibody responses following SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination, with higher anti‐S antibody responses following > 2 doses of vaccine. Our study offers unique longitudinal immune response data in this vulnerable patient population.