bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring and Verifying the Process of Leading to Workplace Deviance: Testing the Moderated Mediation Effect of Fear of Negative Evaluation
Authors: Du Jiaxing , Jin Xiu
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this research was to explore which variables facilitate Chinese SMEs employees’ workplace deviance and focused on uncovering the processes that lead to deviant behavior. Unlike previous studies, rather than simply focusing on variables exploration or main effect verification, we provided and verified the research model related to process by which workplace deviance occurs. Specifically, this research verified exploitative leadership influences workplace deviance through negative emotions and examined the moderated mediation role of fear of negative evaluation. Therefore, this study conducted a data survey on adult employees in SMEs from 25 provinces, municipalities, and regions in China. Ultimately, 305 valid samples were used in the empirical analysis and utilized SPSS 26.0, AMOS 23.0, and PROCESS Macro 3.4.1 to analyze the results. As expected in this study, all hypotheses were supported except hypothesis 6. In addition, based on research results, expected effects are provided in terms of theory and practice. Theoretically, it discloses the mediating role of negative emotions between exploitative leadership and workplace deviance, as well as the moderated mediating role of fear of negative evaluation, broadens the comprehension of the relationships. In practice, it facilitates organizations in identifying and managing exploitative leadership, mitigates workplace deviance, and simultaneously alerts managers to pay attention to the employees’ negative emotions and fear of negative evaluation. Overall, the causal relationship between exploitative leadership and workplace deviance through a process, which can be seen as an expansion of the research field and is considered a contribution of this study.
Promote Middle-Aged and Older Adults’ Blood Donation Intention with Concepts of Social Marketing and Theory of Planned Behavior: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Liu Chih-Chi , Lin Hung-Chou , Wang Jing-Yun
Published: February 2025

As the global population ages, addressing blood donation among middle-aged and older adults is increasingly vital for societal and medical systems. Past research has examined the effectiveness of social marketing campaigns in promoting blood donation. This study aims to determine if social marketing can enhance continuous blood donation intentions in this demographic. The study surveyed 440 participants (aged 40–65; 51.25% female) regarding attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and behavioral intention related to blood donation. Participants’ perceptions of the social marketing 4Ps (product, price, place, promotion) for blood donation were also assessed. Results reveal that product, place, and promotion aspects of social marketing positively influence blood donation plan behavior in middle-aged and older adults. Moreover, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control positively impact their donation intentions. As middle-aged and older adults play a significant role in blood donation, this study offers valuable insights for future researchers and practitioners.
Examining the Effects of Potential Tourists’ Destination Familiarity on Destination Image and Travel Intention: A Mixed Approach of PLS-SEM and fsQCA
Authors: Wang Dimin
Published: February 2025

A conceptual framework was proposed to examine the inter-relationships among non-behavioral destination familiarity (self-described, educational, and informational familiarity), destination image, and travel intention in the context of US tourists visiting Singapore. A total of 313 usable online survey responses were collected via Qualtrics; the data were analyzed through Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA). The results confirmed that informational familiarity and self-described familiarity all positively influenced prospective US tourists’ destination image perceptions and travel intentions. The findings concluded that destination familiarity, specifically non-behavioral aspects played important roles in shaping tourists’ perceptions and decision-making. Moreover, the cognitive destination image can be influenced by affective destination image, and the former was key to influence tourists’ travel intention. The joint analysis of PLS-SEM and fsQCA provided a fine-graiend insights into the variable relationships. Managerial implications are proposed for tourism organizations to understand tourists’ behaviors better.
Spatial and Temporal Evolution of Urban Patent Quality: Evidence From China Prefectural Cities
Authors: Jiang Renai , Hu Shurui , Su Zulong , Huang Yincheng , Zhang Huiwen
Published: February 2025

We develop a comprehensive patent quality index and analyze the spatial and temporal change of urban patent quality in China over the period 2001 to 2019. We focus on three critical dimensions of patent quality: technical, legal, and economic values. The findings indicate that Chinese urban patents demonstrate a gradual and sustained improvement in quality over time, yet substantial room for enhancement remains. Spatially, urban patent quality in China exhibits evident clustering patterns, with the coexistence of high-high, low-low, high-low, and low-high clusters. Moreover, a pronounced disparity exists between the eastern and western regions, with higher patent quality observed in the former and relatively lower quality in the latter, implying regional disparities. Our findings’ implications are paramount for policymakers and regional development planners.
Clear is Popular: The Emoticon Picture Clarity Affects Consumer Service Satisfaction
Authors: Dai Xiaohe , Huang Zhiyuan
Published: February 2025

The emoticon picture clarity in online service encounters has been overlooked in consumer research. Our study intends to investigate how emoticon picture clarity influences consumer service satisfaction. Across four experiments and a single-paper meta-analysis, we demonstrate that when service providers use clear rather blurred emoticon pictures to communicate with consumers, consumers will have higher service satisfaction (Study 1). This effect is attributed to the higher processing fluency induced by clear emoticon pictures, which in turn triggers greater satisfaction (Studies 2 and 3). Furthermore, this effect is weakened when consumers experience cognitive load (Study 4). These findings provide novel insights into consumers' biased evaluations of service providers and offer valuable guidance for marketers to enhance online shopping services through the strategic use of emoticon pictures.
The Psychometric Properties and Typology of the Chinese Version of the Emotional Style Scale for Gifted Students in Middle School
Authors: Tsai Min-Ying
Published: February 2025

The study aimed to verify the psychometric properties of the emotional-style scale and explore different clusters of emotional styles. An emotional style scale was completed in three districts of western Taiwan using stratified random sampling. The study confirmed the reliability and convergent validity of each subscale in a sample of 712 academically gifted students. An emotional style scale for gifted junior high school students was validated with a 25-item self-reported measure. A bi-factor structure model proved the best theoretical factor structure for emotional style. In addition, three clusters of emotional styles were identified in the study. Researchers and educators could use the emotional-style scale in the future to identify and address the emotional needs of gifted junior high school students.
Beyond the Surface: Assessing GPT-4's Accuracy in Detecting Melanoma and Suspicious Skin Lesions From Dermoscopic Images
Authors: Perlmutter Jonah W. , Milkovich John , Fremont Sierra , Datta Shaishav , Mosa Adam
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Self-examinations for skin cancer detection are limited by sensitivity. ChatGPT-4 has image recognition capabilities that can be a useful adjunct for screening cancers and tele-health applications. This study investigated the efficacy of ChatGPT-4 in identifying skin lesions. Methods: Dermoscopic images were retrospectively selected from the PH2 dataset, categorized by clinical diagnosis, and uploaded to ChatGPT-4 with a predesigned prompt. Responses were compared against clinical diagnoses. Confidence intervals were calculated using the bootstrap method assessing precision and significance was calculated using McNemar's test. Analyses were performed using Jupyter Notebook and Python. Results: The GPT-4 model showed moderate performance in melanoma detection with 68.5% accuracy, 52.5% sensitivity, and 72.5% specificity, significantly differing from the clinical standard ( P = .002). For suspicious lesion detection, it performed better with 68.0% accuracy, 78.0% precision, and 70.0% F-measure, still not closely matching clinical diagnosis for atypical nevi and melanoma ( P = .0169). Conclusion: The statistical difference between ChatGPT-4 diagnosis of melanoma and suspicious lesions compared with clinical diagnoses and other AI models suggests the need for improvement in ChatGPT-4 algorithms. This study's limitations included the use of a secondary care database with a higher melanoma incidence, high-quality dermoscopic images that limit generalizability, a small sample size lacking diversity, and the need for larger datasets to validate findings in broader contexts.
Investigating the Impact of Preoperative Kinesiophobia and Pain on Postoperative Gait Biomechanics Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
Authors: Lisee Caroline , Baez Shelby , Bjornsen Elizabeth , Thoma Louise , Blackburn Troy , Spang Jeffrey T. , Creighton R. Alexander , Kamath Ganesh , Hu Jessica , Pietrosimone Brian
Published: February 2025

Background:

Aberrant gait biomechanics—ie, lower knee abduction moment (KAM) impulse— are linked to the development of posttraumatic osteoarthritis after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and ACL reconstruction (ACLR). There is a clinical need to identify modifiable factors, such as kinesiophobia and pain, that may contribute to aberrant gait development after ACLR to advance multimodal rehabilitation strategies.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

This study aimed to determine associations between preoperative kinesiophobia and pain and gait biomechanics linked to posttraumatic osteoarthritis development at 2 and 4 months after ACLR. We hypothesized that worse preoperative kinesiophobia and pain would be associated with lower KAM impulses in the ACLR limb but not the uninjured limb at 2 and 4 months after ACLR.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Patients within 6 weeks of ACL injury and planning to undergo ACLR with bone-patellar tendon-bone autografts were recruited for the study. Preoperatively, participants completed the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK-11) and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Pain (KOOS Pain) subscale surveys to assess kinesiophobia (ie, psychological component to pain) and knee pain, respectively. Participants returned at 2 and 4 months after ACLR to complete a 3-dimensional gait biomechanics analysis. KAM impulses during the stance phase were calculated (N*m*s/N*m) for both limbs. Associations of preoperative TSK-11 and KOOS Pain scores with KAM impulses in ACLR and uninjured limbs were analyzed using separate linear regressions.

Results:

A total of 36 participants (58% women; mean age, 21.4 ± 4.31 years; body mass index, 24.1 ± 3.59 kg/m2 ) completed 3 study visits. Higher preoperative kinesiophobia was associated with lower KAM impulses in the ACLR limb ( R2 = 0.14; P = .02) but not the uninjured limb ( R2 = 0.01; P = .58) at 4 months after ACLR. Preoperative KOOS Pain scores were not associated with KAM impulses in the ACLR and uninjured limbs at 2 and 4 months after ACLR (Δ R2 range, <0.01-0.02; P range = .53-.90).

Conclusion:

Preoperative kinesiophobia, but not pain, was weakly associated with lower KAM impulses during early to midphases of clinical recovery at 4 months after ACLR.
Modeling the Factors Associated with Nurses’ Knowledge and Perceived Barriers Towards Pressure Injury Prevention: A Multi-Center Study
Authors: Salia Solomon Mohammed , Afaya Agani , Adedia David , Kuug Anthony Kolsabilik , Nyande Felix Kwesi , Wuni Abubakari , Dasaah George , Ibrahim Issah , Kpabiya Fusena Alhassan , Muhibdeen Shani , Osman Issahaku , Adatara Peter , Alhassan Robert Kaba
Published: February 2025

Background

Pressure injury is a preventable public health problem. It may develop due to intense force or force combined with shear. Pressure injuries may be associated with pain and increased length of hospital stay. Adequate knowledge and a positive attitude of nurses are required to prevent pressure injuries. Evidence on pressure injury prevention in Ghana among nurses is limited.

Aims and Objectives

The study examined factors associated with nurses’ knowledge and perceived barriers toward pressure injury prevention in the Tamale metropolis, Ghana.

Methods

This was a multi-center descriptive cross-sectional study that recruited 216 nurses using systematic random sampling method. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using the R package and Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 27.0. After controlling for covariates, regression analysis determined the predictors of knowledge and attitude toward pressure injury prevention.

Results

More than two-thirds (79%) of nurses demonstrated good knowledge regarding pressure injury prevention. However, a significant majority (94%) exhibited poor attitudes. Notably, nurses employed in teaching hospitals [aRR = 2.09 (95%CI: 1.31, 3.44), p = .002] and those with 2–4 years of work experience [aRR = 1.96 (95%CI: 1.23, 3.22), p = .004] were significantly more likely to possess good knowledge about pressure injury prevention. Conversely, nurses without prior education on pressure injury prevention [aRR = 0.48(95%CI: 0.23, 0.98), p = .041) were less likely to prevent it. The most perceived barriers were inadequate equipment and logistics and insufficient time/increased workload.

Conclusion

While nurses exhibited a good knowledge about pressure injury prevention, their attitude toward its prevention was poor, indicating significant gaps that need addressing. Developing a comprehensive pressure injury management document and promoting attitudinal change through continuing professional capacity development may prove timely. The findings highlight the need for addressing organizational barriers that hinder effective nursing practice to improve the quality of care and positive patient outcomes.
Emotional Labour in a Cyberabad Shopping Mall: A Feminist Understanding of New Forms of Labour
Authors: Pradhan Ipsita , Rayaprol Aparna
Published: February 2025

The article tries to understand the relationship between gender and changing forms of labour using Arlie Hochschild’s concept of emotional labour (1983). It focuses on the manufacturing of emotional and aesthetic labour, which are often formed and reinforced through the training of employees in Hyderabad’s high-tech city, also called HITEC city or Cyberabad. Though the site of the performance of the labour—the shopping mall, is usually seen as a space for consumption and leisure, this article conceptualises the mall as a workplace by looking at how low-paid labour involves a process of gendering that reinforces stereotypical forms of masculinity and femininity as well as create new ones. A typical male gaze guides the ways in which both service and consumption operate on the shop floor.
Enhancing digital twin technology with community-led, science-driven participatory modeling: A case in green infrastructure planning
Authors: Zellner Moira L , Massey Dean , Laboy Michelle , O’Brien Daniel T , Mueller Amy , Engelberg Daniel
Published: February 2025

Recent research, professional, and funding agendas have re-surfaced the importance of knowledge co-production and ethical participation to address urban tensions worldwide: urbanization and rapid climate change, disproportionately impacting socially vulnerable populations. Despite the rise of Digital Twins (DT), buoyed by the growth of computational and data technologies in the past 10 to 15 years, DT have fallen short of their promise to address these tensions. We present a participatory modeling (PM) platform, Fora.ai, to build on existing strengths of DT and overcome the most prevalent limitations of data-driven technologies. This platform (i.e., a set of visualization and simulation tools and facilitation and sense-making approaches) is organized around the iterative steps in PM: problem definition and goal setting, preference elicitation, collaborative scenario-building, simulation, tradeoff deliberation, and solution-building. We demonstrate the platform’s effectiveness when set within a stakeholder-led process that integrates diverse knowledge, data sources, and values in pursuit of equitable green infrastructure (GI) planning to address flooding. The immediate visualization of simulated impacts, followed by reflection on causal and spatial relationships and tradeoffs across diverse priorities, enhanced participants’ collective understanding of how GI interacts with the built environment and physical conditions to inform their intervention scenarios. The facilitated use of Fora.ai enabled a collaborative socio-technical sense-making process, whereby participants transitioned from untested beliefs to designs that were specifically tailored to the problem in the study area and the diversity of values represented, attending to both localized flooding and neighborhood-level impacts. They also derived generalizable design principles that could be applied elsewhere. We show how the combination of specific facilitation practices and platform features leverage the power of data, computational modeling, and social complexity to contribute to collaborative learning and creative and equitable solution-building for urban sustainability and climate resilience.
D-Dimer and Fibrinogen Levels as Additional Diagnostic Markers in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Kumar Priyanshu , Sahoo Ratnakar , Kumar Vijay
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Recent years have highlighted a special emphasis on the association between Atherosclerosis and D-Dimer and Fibrinogen levels. The purpose of the study was to determine their function as supplementary diagnostic tools in patients of ACS (Acute Coronary Syndrome).

Materials and Methods

The study included 100 participants (50 controls and 50 cases), categorized into STEMI (ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction), NSTEMI (Non-ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction), and UA (Unstable Angina) based on ECG and Trop-T positivity. D-Dimer and Fibrinogen levels were measured for both controls and cases. Chi-square, Student t-test and ANNOVA test were used by SPSS-PC-25 version. The assessment of cut-off points was carried out using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results

Mean D-Dimer was 510.5 µg/ml in STEMI, compared to 241.5 µg/ml in NSTEMI and 219.5 µg/ml in UA. Fibrinogen levels were higher in STEMI (511.68 mg/dl) than in NSTEMI (374.42 mg/dl) and UA (346.10 mg/dl). At a D-Dimer cut-off of 420.5 µg/ml, sensitivity and specificity for ACS prediction were 42% and 96%, respectively; for Fibrinogen at 368.5 mg/dl, they were 68% and 82%. For STEMI, at a D-Dimer cut-off of 354 µg/ml, sensitivity and specificity were 78.57% and 95.45%, while for Fibrinogen at 321 mg/dl, they were 85.71% and 50%.

Discussion

In our study, D-Dimer and Fibrinogen were measured in all the subjects of control group and ACS group and both the parameters were increased in the ACS group with an average of 340 (232-588.25) µg/ml and 453 mg/dl (standard deviation ±201.1) respectively. On the other hand, the control group showed an average D-Dimer of 210.5 µg/ml and Fibrinogen of 270.42 mg/dl (standard deviation ±104.33) which were both within the normal range. Both D-Dimer and Fibrinogen were also calculated for all the subgroups of ACS and the results showed the highest values in the subjects of STEMI.

Conclusion

D-Dimer and Fibrinogen levels were significantly higher in patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome, particularly in the STEMI subgroup, and can be used as supplementary diagnostic markers.
The work that digital standardization does (or not): Exploring tensions between urban land practices and statecraft
Authors: Odendaal Nancy
Published: February 2025

Digitization of land records in Kenya represents a particular moment in smart city strategies to enable rationalization and standardization. In many ways, it represents a linear, technology-driven approach, very much informed by the tenets of modernization theory. The embedded assumption here, that socio-cultural practices and emotional ties around land can be eclipsed by the intended certainty and linear rationality represented by digitation, is misguided. The paper explores two dimensions of these tensions. One, literature on land in Kenya, foregrounds the role of the state as power broker in land exchanges, often to the detriment of the urban poor. Thus, the role of the state is never politically neutral. Two, land is infused with divergent interest groups and actors, that range from customary authorities, informal occupational structures, to private development speculators. The paper concludes on why it is important to explore the tensions that emerge when considering statecraft in multiple regimes.
Seismic resilience evaluation and upgrading framework of UHV converter stations under optimal repair sequence
Authors: Wu Siyuan , Liu Xiao , Xie Qiang
Published: February 2025

Seismic resilience of ultra-high-voltage converter stations (UHVCSs) has significant implications for reducing post-earthquake damages to power systems. In order to evaluate and improve the seismic resilience of UHVCSs, this article established a seismic resilience assessment framework based on optimal repair sequences. The framework involves a system operation model applicable to the topological characteristics of UHVCSs, and a pathway greedy method to efficiently identify the optimal repair sequence. First, the UHVCS system was partitioned according to the functional coupling relationship of the equipment, and then the system operation model was established based on the enumeration of equipment failure scenarios. Pathways of the system were identified by the connection matrix technique. Then, the optimal repair sequence was found by greedy algorithm at the pathway level. Finally, the statistical characteristics of the seismic resilience of the system were obtained through Monte Carlo sampling. Comparative studies were conducted on the multi-categories and -degrees of strengthening based on the proposed framework, finding upgrading strategies to enhance systems’ resilience. This framework avoids the impact of repair sequence uncertainty on resilience-related analysis and has computational feasibility, providing a reference for the formulation of seismic upgrading strategies for UHVCSs.
Lung stem cells and respiratory epithelial chimerism in transplantation
Authors: Bondeelle Louise , Clément Sophie , Bergeron Anne , Tapparel Caroline
Published: February 2025

Stem cells are capable of self-renewal and differentiation into specialised types. They range from totipotent cells to multipotent or somatic stem cells and ultimately to unipotent cells. Some adult multipotent stem cells can have the potential to regenerate and colonise diverse tissues. The respiratory airways and lung mucosa, exposed to ambient air, perform vital roles for all human tissues and organs. They serve as barriers against airborne threats and are essential for tissue oxygenation. Despite low steady-state turnover, lungs are vulnerable to injuries and diseases from environmental exposure. Lung stem cells are crucial due to their regenerative potential and ability to replace damaged cells. Lung repair with extrapulmonary stem cells can occur, leading to the coexistence of respiratory cells with different genetic origins, a phenomenon known as airway epithelial chimerism. The impact of such chimerism in lung repair and disease is actively studied. This review explores different stem cell types, focusing on pulmonary stem cells. It discusses airway epithelium models derived from stem cells for studying lung diseases and examines lung chimerism, particularly in lung transplantation and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, highlighting its significance in understanding tissue repair and chimerism-mediated repair processes in lung pathology.
The impact of lung surgery, with or without (neo-)adjuvant therapy, on physical functioning in patients with nonsmall cell lung cancer: a scoping review
Authors: Haesevoets Sarah , Arents Eva , Cops Dries , Quadflieg Kirsten , Criel Maarten , Ruttens David , Daenen Marc , Stevens Dieter , Surmont Veerle , Demeyer Heleen , Burtin Chris
Published: February 2025

Background

Patients with early stage (I–IIIA) nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are typically treatedviasurgery, often accompanied by (neo-)adjuvant therapy. These interventions impose a significant burden on patients and potentially impact their physical functioning (PF). The impact on PF remains uncertain and existing evidence has not yet been systematically outlined.

Objective

This scoping review aimed to synthesise evidence concerning the effects of lung surgery, with or without (neo-)adjuvant therapy, on the PF of patients with NSCLC.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane databases were systematically searched from inception until 1 July 2023. A comprehensive framework based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health was used to define various aspects of PF. Longitudinal studies, reporting PF prior to and after NSCLC treatment, and cross-sectional studies reporting PF after treatment were included.

Results

85 included studies assessed the effects of surgery with (n=7) or without (n=78) (neo-) adjuvant therapy on body function (n=29), activity (n=67) and/or participation (n=15). 98% of reported outcomes within the longitudinal studies indicate a decline in PF, with 52% demonstrating significant deteriorations, with follow-up times ranging from immediately post-operative up to 1 year after treatment. Cross-sectional studies show impaired PF in 71% of reported outcomes.

Conclusion

PF of patients with NSCLC tends to deteriorate following lung surgery, irrespective of additional (neo-)adjuvant therapy. While the negative impact of lung surgery on ICF categories of “body function” and “activity” have been described to some depth, insights into the impact on “participation” are lacking.
Effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe outcomes in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of European studies published up to 22 January 2024
Authors: Zhou Guiling , Dael Nina , Verweij Stefan , Balafas Spyros , Mubarik Sumaira , Oude Rengerink Katrien , Pasmooij Anna Maria Gerdina , van Baarle Debbie , Mol Peter G.M. , de Bock Geertruida H. , Hak Eelko
Published: February 2025

Background

Up-to-date evidence from European studies on long-term vaccine effectiveness (VE) of COVID-19 vaccines is lacking. This review aimed to evaluate effectiveness and durability of primary vaccine series and boosters in preventing infection and severe outcomes in the European population.

Methods

We conducted systematic searches of PubMed and Embase up to 22 January 2024. We included observational studies that evaluated VE against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection or severe disease (hospitalisation, intensive care unit admission or death) for primary series and boosters in Europe. We applied a random-effects meta-analysis model.

Results

We included 33 studies and over 56 million participants. The overall VE of the complete primary series against infection with any SARS-CoV-2 variant was 70.7%. VE was lower for Omicron, at 26.1%, than for pre-Omicron strains, at 77.0%. Over time, VE against infection by any variant decreased from 68.9% to 38.9% after 6 months. Boosters restored VE to 76.4% and maintained at 58.4% after 3 months. The overall VE of a complete primary series for severe outcomes due to any variant was 87.4%, with 93.3% for pre-Omicron and 62.8% for Omicron strains. Protection against severe outcomes declined less than for infection. 6 months after the primary series, the vaccine still provided over 50% protection against severe outcomes caused by Omicron. Boosters restored VE to 87.9% and maintained at 78.5% after 3 months.

Conclusion

VE against SARS-CoV-2 infection declines markedly with time and Omicron variants. Protection against severe outcomes was more durable and resistant to viral mutation. Boosters restored protection, emphasising the need for timely booster vaccination for vulnerable populations.
Mechanism of histone demethylase KDM5A in osteoporotic fracture healing through epigenetic regulation of the miR-495/SKP2/Runx2 axis
Authors: Li Zhuoran , Zhang Junyan , Xu Tingting , Hao Zhiying , Li Yadong
Published: February 2025

Background

Osteoporosis represents a salient metabolic bone disorder. Histone demethylase plays a vital role in bone development and homeostasis. This study explored the mechanism of histone demethylase KDM5A affecting osteoporotic fracture healing via the miR-495/SKP2/Runx2 axis.

Methods

The murine model of osteoporotic fracture was established. The bone mineral density, maximum elastic stress, and maximum load were tested. The relative trabecular bone volume, bone trabecular thickness, and trabecular number at the proximal end of tibia were detected. The histopathological changes of femur tissues and bone microstructure were observed. Expressions of KDM5A and osteogenic factors were detected. The cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, and calcified nodules were measured. The binding relationships between KDM5A and miR-495 promoter, and miR-495 and SKP2 were verified. The interaction between SKP2 and Runx2 was detected. The ubiquitination level of Runx2 and the stability of Runx2 protein were detected.

Results

KDM5A was highly expressed in the murine model of osteoporotic fracture. Interference of KDM5A expression facilitated fracture healing in osteoporotic mice. KDM5A downregulated miR-495 expression by promoting the H3K4me3 methylation of the miR-495 promoter. Inhibition of miR-495 reversed the effect of KDM5A silencing on osteoblast proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization. miR-495 facilitated osteoblast proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization by targeting SKP2. SKP2 suppressed Runx2 expression through ubiquitination degradation. Inhibition of Runx2 reversed the promoting effect of SKP2 silencing on osteogenic differentiation.

Conclusion

KDM5A attenuated the inhibition of miR-495 on SKP2 and promoted the ubiquitination degradation of Runx2 protein by SKP2, thereby repressing osteoblast differentiation and retarding osteoporotic fracture healing.
Human urine stem cells protect against cyclophosphamide-induced premature ovarian failure by inhibiting SLC1A4-mediated outflux of intracellular serine in ovarian granulosa cells
Authors: Gu Hao-Cheng , Wang Ling-Fang , Zhang Yu-Wei , Zhuo You-Qiong , Zhang Zhou-Hang , Wei Xing-Yu , Liu Quan-Wen , Deng Ke-Yu , Xin Hong-Bo
Published: February 2025

Background

Cyclophosphamide (CTX) is the first-line medication for the treatment of breast cancer, although it potentially leads to severe ovarian dysfunction and even premature ovarian failure (POF). However, the mechanism of CTX-induced POF remains unclear. Mesenchymal stem cell-based therapy has been wildly used for treating numerous diseases. Therefore, our study aims to elucidate the underlying mechanism of CTX-induced POF and to explore the therapeutic effect of human urine stem cells (hUSCs) in POF.

Methods

CTX-induced POF or ovarian granulosa cell (GCs) apoptosis were treated with hUSCs and their exosomes in vitro and in vivo. Morphological, histological, and functional alternations were examined using multiple approaches. The effector molecules of hUSC-derived exosomes (hUSC-Exo) were determined by differential expression analysis in the ovaries. The target genes of miRNA were accessed by transcriptome sequencing in GCs, and the underlying mechanisms were further elucidated.

Results

hUSCs remarkably inhibited CTX-induced apoptosis and promoted the proliferation of GCs, respectively. In addition, we observed that miR-27b-3p was highly expressed in hUSC-Exo and markedly suppressed CTX-induced GC apoptosis by specifically inhibiting the expression of SLC1A4, a serine transporter, in ovarian GCs, which, in turn, elevated the concentration of the intracellular serine by inhibiting the outflux of cellular serine. More importantly, the knockdown of SLC1A4 or simple supplementation of serine suppressed CTX-induced apoptosis of GCs. Finally, we demonstrated that CTX-induced apoptosis of ovarian GCs was essential for POF by reducing the intracellular serine concentration via elevating the expression of SLC1A4, whereas hUSCs protected against CTX-induced POF via miR-27b-3p/SLC1A4/serine axis-mediated activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that hUSC-based cell therapy or simple supplementation of serine may provide an efficient therapeutic approach for the prevention and treatment of CTX-induced POF clinically.

Graphical abstract
Pharmacokinetic interaction assessment of an HIV broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibody VRC07-523LS: a cross-protocol analysis of three phase 1 trials in people without HIV
Authors: Chawana Tariro D. , Walsh Stephen R. , Stranix-Chibanda Lynda , Chirenje Zvavahera M. , Yu Chenchen , Zhang Lily , Seaton Kelly E. , Heptinstall Jack , Zhang Lu , Paez Carmen A. , Gamble Theresa , Karuna Shelly T. , Andrew Philip , Hanscom Brett , Sobieszczyk Magdalena E. , Edupuganti Srilatha , Gay Cynthia L. , Mannheimer Sharon B. , Hurt Christopher B. , Stephenson Kathryn E. , Polakowski Laura L. , Spiegel Hans , Yacovone Margaret , Regenold Stephanie , Yen Catherine , Baumblatt Jane AG. , Gama Lucio , Barouch Dan H. , Piwowar-Manning Estelle , Koup Richard A. , Tomaras Georgia D. , Hyrien Ollivier , Roxby Alison C. , Huang Yunda ,   on behalf of the HVTN 127/HPTN 087, HVTN 130/HPTN 089 and HVTN 136/HPTN 092 Study Teams
Published: February 2025

VRC07-523LS is a safe and well-tolerated monoclonal antibody (mAb) targeting the CD4 binding site on the HIV envelope (Env) trimer. Efficacy of VRC07-523LS, in combination with mAbs targeting other HIV epitopes, will be evaluated in upcoming trials to prevent HIV acquisition in adults. However, differences in the pharmacokinetics (PK) of VRC07-523LS when administered alone vs. in combination with other mAbs have not been formally assessed. We performed a cross-protocol analysis of three clinical trials and included data from a total of 146 adults without HIV who received intravenous (n = 95) or subcutaneous (n = 51) VRC07-523LS, either alone (‘single’; n = 100) or in combination with 1 or 2 other mAbs (‘combined’; n = 46). We used an open, two-compartment population PK model to describe serum concentrations of VRC07-523LS over time, accounting for inter-individual variabilities. We compared individual-level PK parameters between the combined vs. single groups using the targeted maximum likelihood estimation method to adjust for participant characteristics. No significant differences were observed in clearance rate, inter-compartmental clearance, distribution half-life, or total VRC07-523LS exposure over time. However, for the combined group, mean central volume of distribution, peripheral volume of distribution, and elimination half-life were slightly greater, corresponding to slightly lower predicted concentrations early post-administration with high levels being maintained in both groups. These results suggest potential PK interactions between VRC07-523LS and other mAbs, but with small clinical impact in the context of HIV prevention. Our findings support coadministration of VRC07-523LS with other mAbs, and the use of the developed PK models to design future trials for HIV prevention.
Mini nutritional assessment short-form as a risk factor for mortality in patients with respiratory disease undergoing urgent hospitalization
Authors: Ishiwari Mayuko , Kono Yuta , Togashi Yuki , Kobayashi Kenichi , Kikuchi Ryota , Kogami Mariko , Suekawa Ami , Miyazawa Yasushi , Abe Shinji
Published: February 2025

Background

Studies of nutritional status in geriatric patients with respiratory diseases are limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the mortality risk of older patients undergoing urgent hospitalization for various respiratory diseases.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of patients aged ≥ 65 years with respiratory diseases who were urgently hospitalized between April 2022 and November 2024. The Mini Nutritional Assessment Short-Form (MNA-SF) was evaluated at the time of urgent admission, and the malnutrition risk was defined by the MNA-SF score < 11. Comorbidities and frailty were assessed using the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) and Clinical frailty scale (CFS), respectively. Biomarkers of inflammation and acute respiratory failure such as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS), Respiratory rate-oxygenation (ROX) index, and the pulse oximetric saturation (SpO2)/fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) [S/F] ratio were calculated and analyzed as risk factors of in-hospital mortality.

Results

A total of 168 consecutive patients were enrolled in the study with median age of 77 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 72–84). Thirty-nine patients (23.2%) died during hospitalization, and the median time to death was 17 days (IQR: 10–25). Univariate analysis demonstrated that older age (> 77 years), low S/F ratio (< 315), low ROX (< 8.3), high NLR (> 6), high CFS (> 5), and low MNA-SF (< 11) were associated with in-hospital mortality, multivariate analysis revealed that low MNA-SF was an independent predictor.

Conclusions

The MNA-SF is a risk factor for mortality in older patients undergoing urgent hospitalization due to various respiratory diseases.
Risk factors in self-reported dissatisfied patients implanted with various presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses after cataract surgery
Authors: Jeon Woosung , Yoon Chang Ho , Oh Joo Youn , Choi Hyuk Jin , Kim Mee Kum
Published: February 2025

Background

This study aimed to investigate the self-reported dissatisfaction rates and associated risk factors among patients who underwent cataract surgery using different types of presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses (IOLs).

Methods

This retrospective case–control study analyzed the medical records in 340 eyes from 211 cataract surgery patients with presbyopia-correcting IOLs. The analyzed IOL types included bifocal (ReSTOR®), trifocal (PanOptix®), and extended depth-of-focus (EDOF; Symfony®) IOLs. The rates of self-reported dissatisfaction related to vision or photic disturbances were compared between these IOLs. Various factors, including sex, age, preoperative visual acuity and refractive status, and biometric indices, were analyzed to identify potential risk factors for dissatisfaction.

Results

The overall dissatisfaction rate was 18.5% (63/340). Among the IOL types, Symfony®-implanted eyes had the highest rate of near-vision dissatisfaction, while PanOptix®-implanted eyes showed similar proportions of photic disturbances and near-vision discomfort. The major risk factor identified for overall dissatisfaction, regardless of IOL type, was preoperative myopia, which aligns with the risk factor for near discomfort. Meanwhile, the risk factors for photic phenomena were revealed to be thinner corneal thickness and greater corneal astigmatism. By IOL types, preoperative myopia caused near-vision discomfort in Symfony® eyes, whereas greater corneal astigmatism and thinner corneas were linked to photic disturbances in PanOptix® eyes.

Conclusions

It suggests that near-vision discomfort is related to myopic factors, whereas photic disturbances are associated with ocular aberrations. The types of dissatisfaction vary depending on the designs of presbyopia-correcting IOLs.

Trial Registration

This retrospective study adhered to the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki and was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Seoul National University Hospital on March 13, 2023 (IRB No: 2303–025-1409).
Effectiveness of referral to a population-level telephone coaching service for improving health risk behaviours in people with a mental health condition: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hanly Grace , Campbell Elizabeth , Bartlem Kate , Dray Julia , Fehily Caitlin , Colyvas Kim , Reynolds Tahlia , Davidson Sandy , Jeong Sarah Yeun-Sim , Wiggers John , Wolfenden Luke , Bowman Jenny
Published: February 2025

Background

Telephone support services are a viable means of providing population-level support to reduce health risk behaviours. While research exists on the effectiveness of Quitlines to reduce smoking, there is limited other research investigating whether telephone services can provide effective behaviour change support for people with a mental health condition for behaviours including physical activity, healthy eating, and weight management. The aims of this trial were to evaluate the effectiveness of referral of people with a mental health condition to a population-level telephone coaching service to improve health risk behaviours and increase attempts to do so.

Methods

A parallel-group randomised controlled trial was conducted. Participants with a mental health condition (N = 681) were assigned to a control (health information pack) or intervention group (information pack and referral by the research team to a coaching program). Data were collected via telephone surveys at baseline and six months post-recruitment. Primary outcomes were: (1) weekly minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, (2) daily fruit serves, (3) daily vegetable serves, and (4) attempted behaviour change/weight loss (yes/no; composite measure). Secondary outcomes included weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), and attempts to change each health behaviour individually.

Results

Intention-to-treat analyses found no significant differential change between groups from baseline to six months for primary or secondary outcomes. By follow-up, 242/549 (44%) of intervention participants had enrolled in coaching and completed at least one call, with 16/242 having completed the program, 79 ongoing, and 147 withdrawn. Per-protocol analyses found attempting to improve at least one health behaviour/lose weight was significantly greater in enrolees (OR = 3.7, 95% CI 1.03—13.23) than the control group.

Conclusions

Referral to the program did not improve risk behaviours or weight/BMI but did support behaviour change attempts. Contributing factors may include low program completion by follow-up and impact of COVID-19. Further research is required to better understand participation in and benefits of telephone coaching services for people with a mental health condition.

Trial registration

Registered retrospectively with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12620000351910).
Managing low-back pain in rural Uganda: a qualitative study exploring the perspectives and practices of frontline health workers regarding LBP management in primary care
Authors: Harscouët Paul , Chimpaye Gloria Ndekezi , Kazibwe Herman , Kabakyenga Jerome , O’Callaghan Denise , Blake Catherine , Caulfield Brian , O’Sullivan Cliona
Published: February 2025

Background and aims

Low-back pain (LBP) is the main cause of years lived with disabilities (YLDs) worldwide and the second cause of YLDs in Uganda. In 2019, it was responsible for 7.4% of global YLDs and 5% of YLDs in Uganda. LBP takes a significant toll on people’s quality of life and disproportionately affects lower socioeconomic classes, elders, and women. In rural Uganda, LBP is managed in health centres by clinical officers and nurses with limited resources. This study aims to understand the perspectives and practices of these health workers.

Method

A qualitative design using semi-structured focus-group discussions was employed. Purposive sampling allowed us to identify relevant participants based on their roles as healthcare professionals working in primary care context in rural South-West Uganda. Data was analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

LBP is a common and persistent complaint among patients presenting to rural health centres in Uganda. Manual labour and female specific health conditions were deemed to be common causes. There was a strong reliance on medication prescription, coupled with X-ray diagnosis, with little emphasis on education or exercise. Finally, findings highlighted major barriers for patients within the referral system to hospital care or rehabilitation.

Discussion

Education and training of frontline clinicians in terms of appropriate prescribing and rehabilitation for LBP is crucial. Evidence-based rehabilitation interventions need to be developed and adapted so that they can be delivered within the time and resource constraints of the health workforce, ensuring that they are acceptable and effective to patients in the context of rural Uganda.
Assessment of two methods for detecting carious dentin: an in vitro study
Authors: White Joel , Yansane Alfa , Kukreti Puja , Nahar Pragati , Orobia Paolo , Jensen Rachel , Plack Leslie , Vaderhobli Ram , Magnum Jonathan , Jenson Larry
Published: February 2025

Background

The objective of this study was to compare, in vitro, two dentinal caries lesion detector methods, Caries Finder and BlueCheck, to determine if they were substantially equivalent in their ability to aid visualization of demineralized dentin and to also to compare their performance compared to the traditional visual/tactile method of dentinal caries lesion detection in vitro.

Methods

Sixty-five extracted human teeth containing lesions rated as ICDAS 4,5 or 6 were chosen and then randomly assigned to two groups. Specimens were then evaluated in standard operatory conditions by three evaluators using the traditional visual and tactile method, the Caries Finder method, and the BlueCheck method of detection. The study employed a parallel, randomized controlled study design. To test the equivalence claim, a “two-one sided test” (TOST) approach was utilized.

Results

As compared to the traditional method, the Caries Finder method had a 0.9742 accuracy, 95% confidence interval [0.9578, 0.9855], 94.80% sensitivity, 98.53% specificity, 96.47% positive predictive value, 97.82% negative predictive value, 0.938 Kappa value, p < 2.2e-16). The BlueCheck method had a 0.9821 accuracy, 95% confidence interval [0.9682, 0.9910], 96.02% sensitivity, 99.09% specificity, 97.69% positive predictive value, 98.42% negative predictive value, 0.956 Kappa value, p < 2.2e-16). Inter-rater reliability and intra-rater reliability ratings were good to excellent.

Conclusions

The results of this study support the conclusion that the Caries Finder and BlueCheck methods compare favorably with the traditional method of carious dentin detection. Caries Finder and BlueCheck detection methods were found to have comparable performance in their ability to differentiate carious dentin from healthy tooth structure in vitro; however further in vivo validation is required to confirm clinical equivalence. Both show good to excellent inter-rater and intra-rater reliability.